Tag: Commerce

What Every Woman Traveler Needs to Know Before Taking Her First Solo Trip

Post author By Joni Sweet
Post date May 16, 2018

I’ve got a case of wanderlust, and a serious one at that. My dream lifestyle involves bouncing from one country to the next, with all the essentials right on my back. And while I haven’t gone full digital nomad…yet…I do travel a lot—more frequently than I can find a companion to come with me.
So what’s a wanderer to do? She hits the road on her own.
Getting the confidence to travel solo, though, is a trek in and of itself. The first day of my first solo trip in 2010 involved holing myself up in a hotel room. I had left the familiarity of New Delhi, where I studied Hindi and Indian art with 20 other American college kids, to conduct field research on local cuisine around India. An overnight train ride dropped me (and my unmanageably large backpack) off 900-ish miles south in Ahmedabad, and it hit me: I was alone. I felt vulnerable and intimidated, so when I arrived at the hotel, I struggled to leave. I felt like a failure.
But time was ticking and I needed to begin my research, stat. It took hours of giving myself an internal pep talk and making expensive long-distance calls to friends back home to finally work up the courage to leave my hotel room. But I did it, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, inspiring countless future trips around the world with no one’s hand to hold but my own.
Hopping on a plane to somewhere you’ve never been, where you don’t speak the language, and you have little idea where to go or what to do…it sounds ludicrous, I know. But there’s something deeply invigorating about getting up in the morning and having the entire day to explore the world alone. You have no one to answer to but yourself.
Trust me, you can do it. Any woman with a bit of grit and a lot of curiosity can (and should) take at least one solo trip.
When it comes time for yours, I’ve got some tips that can make your adventure easier and (hopefully) more fun.

Spin the globe.

The destination you choose will set the tone for your journey. If it’s your first time traveling solo, look for a place that has a strong tourism infrastructure: lots of hotels, restaurants, and things to do. That will make it easy for you to meet other people and enjoy the experience with minimal hassle.
Just as important is safety, especially when you’re a woman traveling alone. The U.S. Department of State publishes official travel advisories that can warn you about potential dangers in different parts of the world. TripAdvisor and travel forums can give you recent travelers’ perspectives of a place. The Lonely Planet destination guidebooks (a must-have on every trip I take) also offer traveler-specific guidance on dangers and annoyances you might experience on your trip.
Having never been the victim of a crime abroad, I genuinely believe many places in the world are safe and welcoming. Do your homework before you hop on the plane, leave your valuables at home, and remain assertive and confident no matter what the trip throws your way.

Dress the part.

What you wear plays a big role in how you experience foreign destinations. It’s a reality I don’t love, but it’s been my experience nonetheless.
I feel more comfortable when I cover up with cotton garments on my trips—often knee-length skirts (or longer), T-shirts, and jackets and scarves. However, if locals are wearing shorts and tank tops, I consider that a cue that it’s fine for me to do so too. Uniqlo and Zara have become my go-to stores for updating my travel wardrobe.
Dressing like a local is another way to show respect for host country and blend in. Visit a local mall or market early in your trip and see what clothes catch your eye.

Shop Travel Essentials:

Getting Around

Getting around in a foreign country is equal parts confusing, frustrating, fascinating, and fun. I recommend taking a private cab (or arranging a pickup from your hotel) when you go to a new country alone. It’ll help you get your bearings after a long flight.
But try using public transportation throughout the rest of your trip. Riding the subways or hopping on buses saves you money and immerses you in the culture, showing you what it’s actually like to live in a different place.
Some of my most vivid memories from my time in Jakarta, Indonesia, involve bumpy rides around the metropolis backed by the music of buskers on the crowded Kopaja buses, and it was a lot more colorful than sitting alone in a taxi.

You do you.

There’s nothing like the feeling of freedom you get when traveling solo. Feeling ambitious and want to take on a five-mile hike followed by an afternoon of museum hopping? Go for it! Has the trip worn you out and you need a break? Sip coffee and pore over a novel at a cafe all day—no judgment.
No matter how you choose to spend your days, you’ll learn about yourself, what you find fulfilling, and what it takes to live authentically—all skills that will continue enrich your life back home.
You can also consider diving deep into something that intrigues you. If you’re completely obsessed with the local cuisine, fill your itinerary with foodie activities and restaurant reservations. A cooking class, a stroll through a food market, and dinner at the place all the locals love are all musts. Immersing yourself in an area of interest will give your trip a greater sense of purpose.

Oh, the People You Meet!

It’s a fact: When you take a solo trip, you’re going to get lonely. But here’s another fact: You’re going to meet people.
Eager for some companionship after spending a few days alone, I made conversation with a woman playing solitaire in the hotel room of my guesthouse in Amritsar. She was friendly, and we decided we’d go see the festive border ceremony between India and Pakistan, a day trip I was nervous about taking on my own. There, we danced to Bollywood music with Indian women in the streets as tens of thousands of people showed pride for their countries, waving flags and chanting.
It was electrifying to share this experience with someone I’d only just met. Friends are surprisingly easy to come by when you’re traveling.
Take the plunge and book a flight to that place you’ve always dreamed of visiting. And take it from me: Leaving your hotel room will be the biggest challenge of your first trip alone.
[related article_ids=26542]

Tags Commerce, Featured, organic

Favorite Finds Nosh

Sustainable Kitchen—Things You Need To Shop, Prep, And Store Like A Pro

Post author By Megan Senseney
Post date May 16, 2018

If you’re like most people, the desire to make healthier eating decisions has probably crossed your mind from time to time. Improving your diet can be a difficult goal, but once you’ve found your groove, you might start to wonder about the next steps you can take to continue creating a healthier kitchen.
What better place to start than by modifying the way you shop for your food and prepare it? We’ve got the tools you need to help make grocery shopping, prepping your food, and cooking a little more eco-friendly.

Shop

How you shop for food can be as important as the food you buy. When picking out fresh fruits and vegetables, reaching for a plastic bag to hold that produce is pretty much second nature. Those who make the effort to shop locally at farmers markets may also find that their haul is pretty difficult to carry around if they’re not prepared. Skip the plastic waste—and make carrying your groceries a little easier—with these sustainable shopping tools.

Reusable Bags

Whether you typically shop at an outdoor market or in your local grocery store, keep those pesky plastic bags where they belong and bring your own reusable bags. This kit is a great starter pack that contains both a tote-style bag and an over-the-shoulder mesh bag.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2GeWFIg”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]

Reusable Produce Bags

If you buy fresh produce often, you’ll find that these mesh bags will help you cut down on plastic waste. They’re designed so that they won’t affect the weight of your produce when it comes time to check out, and since they’re see-through you can leave your items in the bag!

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2I2YHPT”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]

Insulated Shopping Bag

Whether it’s because you don’t live super close to the store or you just have multiple stops to make, there are times when you’ll need to keep your cold items chilled. Prevent your food and your money from going to waste with an insulated bag that’ll keep your items cold during the journey home. They can even be used for hot items, since they come in a set of two.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2FZcwIU”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]

Prep

Creating a more sustainable kitchen doesn’t end with the food you purchase. Believe it or not, you can make greener choices even when it comes to the items you use to prep your food, from cutting boards to pans.

Produce Wash

Washing your fresh produce is one of the first things you need to do before eating it, and it’s important to find an option that you’re okay with ultimately putting in your body. This fruit and veggie wash from ECOS will get wax and dirt off your produce—and it’s biodegradable, plant based, and completely natural too. Spray it directly on your produce and wipe away, or add some to a bowl full of water to let your produce soak. For things like potatoes or apples, you can also use this ergonomic scrub brush to really get the grime off.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2GbYDZQ”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Compost Bin

Have a backyard garden? Don’t throw those banana peels and carrot skins away—get a countertop composting bin to help your backyard produce thrive. It’s the perfect size to leave out without taking up too much counter space, and it’s also designed with a charcoal filter to keep odors trapped inside. If composting isn’t your thing, you can always give these biodegradable trash bags a shot to help reduce your plastic waste.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2FrqLXB”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Cutting Board

Every kitchen needs a cutting board, and most people reach for one that’s—you guessed it—plastic. If you’re looking to upgrade in both appearance and material, opt for this organic bamboo board. It’s more Earth-friendly than plastic, and it’s made from beautiful organic bamboo that’s both strong and durable. You can also try this rice husk cutting board, which is both super durable and biodegradable.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2FvHJnU”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

GreenPan

Teflon pans might work well for making sure your food doesn’t stick while cooking, but there are concerns about its safety. Fortunately, though, there are great non-stick pans coated with toxin-free ceramic that provide all the same benefits of your standard Teflon-coated pans. This is also great news for those who’re trying to cook with less fat, as you won’t have to add as much oil or butter to keep your food moving during cooking.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2jK6pQf”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Storage

Once you’ve prepped your meals for the upcoming week, the biggest challenge is making sure your food doesn’t go bad before you get to eat it. Create less waste and make sure you’re eating your money’s worth by storing your food properly in one of these reusable, eco-friendly options.

Pyrex Storage Containers

When it comes to storage containers, glass is the way to go. Yes, it’s a little more expensive than the usual plastic containers, but glass can also be more durable and doesn’t run the risk of leaching chemicals into food. This Pyrex set comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes, perfect for packing snacks and meals alike—you can also reheat your food in them without worrying about melting plastic.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2rv3dvU”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]

Reusable Sandwich Bags

Most of us throw away plastic sandwich and snack bags without thinking about how much money we’re throwing away along with them. These reusable Stasher bags are made from a more durable silicone material. They’re thick and sturdy and can be used over and over so you’ll save money and produce less plastic waste.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2I6468w”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]
http://amzn.to/2FqWfS1

Eco-Friendly Reusable Food Wrap

Plastic wrap is another kitchen item that we use and discard, roll after roll, without a second thought. Make a more sustainable choice with cloth wraps coated in beeswax. When you use your hands to warm the wraps slightly, the beeswax becomes soft enough to mold around a container or piece of food and then cools to create a water- and air-tight seal. The wraps can be used for up to a year, at which point they can be composted.
You can also try these stretchy silicone lids, which will cover containers up to 10 inches wide, protecting your food without generating waste.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2ruwUgO”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Tags Commerce

Health x Body Wellbeing

Symptoms Of Toxic Shock Syndrome (And Why You Shouldn’t Panic)

Post author By Katie Martin
Post date May 15, 2018

Soon after I got my first period, my mother handed me a box of Tampax and showed me how to use tampons. At the end of our lesson, my mother told me that under no circumstances was I ever to leave a tampon in for more than four hours at a time, or I could risk getting toxic shock syndrome (TSS), which could kill me.
Um, say what now, Mom?!

After my mother’s ominous warning, I was almost too scared to use tampons, so I followed the instructions on the tampon box to the letter. I mean, who wants their tombstone to read, “Here lies Katie Martin. She’d still be alive if she’d only taken her tampon out”?
Still, in the almost 20 years that I’ve been using tampons, I’ve never fully understood what toxic shock syndrome was, nor had I ever heard of anyone actually contracting the illness.

I wondered: Is toxic shock syndrome really that scary?
Here’s what the experts have to say.

What really causes toxic shock syndrome?

“Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is an extremely rare illness caused by Staphylococcus aureus or group A Streptococcus bacteria,” explains Tami Prince, MD, the leading OB-GYN at the Women’s Health and Wellness Center of Georgia. “These bacteria can produce toxins which enter into the bloodstream and cause sepsis, ultimately leading to death if left untreated.”

According to Prince, tampons aren’t the only way to get toxic shock syndrome. That’s why menstruating women aren’t the only ones at risk for the illness. Men, young children, and post-menopausal women are also at risk for this rare disease.
In fact, toxic shock syndrome caused by Staphylococcus aureus is most often the result of a localized infection, such as one that may occur after surgery or in an open wound. TSS caused by Staphylococcus aureus is much less deadly than cases of toxic shock syndrome caused by group A strep (Streptococcus pyogenes) as the mortality rate of toxic shock syndrome associated with this staph is between 5 and 15 percent.

Group A strep (Streptococcus pyogenes) is a less-common cause of TSS, but toxic shock syndrome caused by strep is much more serious, with mortality rates estimated to be as high as 70 percent.

So why do tampons get blamed for most cases of toxic shock syndrome?

“Toxic shock syndrome can occur in any gender or age group but about half of all cases occur in menstruating woman,” says Prince.
To understand why, you have to know a little bit about the history of the tampon.

“Toxic shock syndrome was first described in 1920s, but became very well known in the 1980s after it was associated with high-absorbency tampons,” Amesh Adalja, MD, a board-certified infectious disease physician at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, tells HealthyWay.
That’s because high-absorbency tampons meant women could go longer without changing them, providing a breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. According to Prince, “Increased blood absorption with prolonged use as well as the polyester foam used to make the tampons increased the risk of contracting this life-threatening illness.”

Luckily, manufacturers no longer make high-absorbency tampons, and now include information about toxic shock syndrome in tampon boxes, which has led to a significant decrease in the number of TSS cases doctors see each year.

How do I know if I have toxic shock syndrome?

Before you chalk your fever up to toxic shock syndrome, know that TSS is actually very rare. Since the 1980s, rates of TSS have steadily declined, now hovering at around 1 per 100,000 people each year, and the mortality rate of TSS is even lower. Still, it’s important to know the symptoms. If left untreated, toxic shock syndrome can cause multi-organ failure that can lead to death.

“The symptoms [of toxic shock syndrome] include but are not limited to high fever, rash that usually appears on soles of feet and palms of hands, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, mental confusion, and headaches,” Prince explains.
Sometimes symptoms of toxic shock syndrome aren’t visible. You may have extremely low blood pressure, or reduced kidney function. If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above and you aren’t able to use the restroom even though you’ve been guzzling water, you may be developing toxic shock syndrome.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome can progress rapidly, showing up within two to three days after infection. Early care is critical in the treatment of toxic shock syndrome, so if you suspect that you may have contracted TSS, get thee to an emergency room, pronto.

What is the treatment for toxic shock syndrome?

“TSS is treated with antibiotics and removal of the source of infection,” says Adalja. “Sometimes, antibody therapies are also given.”
Sounds simple enough, right?
Not so much. Treating toxic shock syndrome requires more than a two-week course of antibiotics. When you’re diagnosed with toxic shock syndrome, a lot of interventions may happen all at once in order to prevent the infection from spreading while also treating life-threatening symptoms like extremely low blood pressure.

Staph-induced TSS responds well to antibiotic treatment, but toxic shock syndrome caused by strep does not. If antibiotic treatments don’t work, antibody therapy—called intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)—may be administered.
Immunoglobulin is a component of plasma and has antibodies that help fight infection. But when you have toxic shock syndrome, the immune system is severely compromised, so your body can’t produce the antibodies needed. Intravenous immunoglobulin gives your immune system the boost it needs to fight infection.

In extreme cases, the infection may spread to organs and limbs. Model Lauren Wasser made headlines in 2012 after having her leg amputated as a complication from toxic shock syndrome; five years later, in 2017, she had her other leg amputated due to ongoing complications.

I don’t want to risk using tampons anymore. What are other options?

Again, if you use tampons correctly, the risk of toxic shock syndrome is incredibly low. Still, if you’d rather not risk it at all, here are a few alternatives to tampons for when you’re on your period.

Menstrual Cup

Women who use a menstrual cup don’t just love menstrual cups; they LOVE menstrual cups. If you’re unfamiliar with a menstrual cup, it’s basically a little silicone cup that you insert just like a tampon. Instead of soaking up menstrual blood though, a menstrual cup catches it. If your flow is super heavy, you may need to empty it more than once a day, but generally, you can stick a menstrual cup in and wear it all day.

Want to try a menstrual cup? The Diva Cup, the OG menstrual cup, guarantees 12 hours of period protection. Other top-rated menstrual cups include lena, Blossom, Dutchess Cup, and Saalt.

Period Panties

I was skeptical of period panties when they first came on the market: Ain’t no way a pair of underwear can tame my extremely heavy flow. But after my son’s birth, I ordered a couple of pairs to help me feel more secure as I experienced postpartum bleeding, and to my surprise, they actually work!

Period panties, like Thinx, are undies that are specially designed with a waterproof barrier to keep leaks at bay. Thinx specifically promises to hold up to two tampons-worth of flow during your period. If you have a heavy flow, you may not want to carry a stash of clean underwear with you (much less your used period panties), but on lighter days, these are the perfect alternative to tampons. And, since there’s nothing to insert, the risk of contracting toxic shock syndrome is virtually zero.

Reusable Pads

So, if reusable pads conjure up images of cloth diapers, you’re not really wrong. The concept is essentially the same, since both disposable diapers and pads need to be ultra absorbent. Cloth pads do take some getting used to. First, you’ll need a dry bag to store used pads in on the go. You’ll also need to bring extra cloth pads with you, can could be bulky. Still, women who use reusable cloth pads report that the pads are softer and more comfortable than regular pads, Plus, you’ll save a ton of money in the long run when you don’t have to stock up on pads or tampons each month.

GladRags makes reusable cloth pads that are so cute you’ll (almost) want to wear them outside your clothes. Or, if you’re crafty, you can try making your own reusable pads.

Free bleed, baby!

Kiran Gandhi made headlines in 2015 when she ran the London Marathon while on her period, with nary a tampon or pad. That’s right, Gandhi let her menstrual blood flow freely while she ran 26.2 miles.
She got a lot of criticism for free bleeding during the race, but Gandhi chose not to use menstrual protection as a way to raise awareness for girls and women who don’t have access to basic period supplies, like pads and tampons.

So, maybe free bleeding isn’t very practical, especially if you have to go, well, anywhere, really. But practical or not, I’d like to be confident enough to tell the world, “I’m on my period, I’m not using tampons because I don’t want to risk toxic shock syndrome, so just deal with it!”

Tags Commerce, search

Favorite Finds Sweat

The Best Running Leggings For Women: Trail Tested And Sprint Approved

Post author By Lauren Bondi
Post date May 11, 2018

As tight as tight can be, the lululemon Speed Up Tight is perfect for your most intense sweat sessions as they stay in place unlike any other workout legging I’ve worn. The silky material is anti-pill, anti-cling, and needed nothing more than a quick dusting to remove the dirt from Mother Earth’s beautiful trails!
I’m also happy to report that this pair is commando-friendly, never riding up—even during sprints. If you don’t prefer to go commando, I suggest wearing seamless underwear to avoid any bunching near the bum and hip area.
The side pocket in this running tight fit my iPhone 6s and held it in place throughout every run (and even a hike). The zippered pocket is the perfect place for a loose key, small wad of cash, or debit card.

Although they have a higher price tag than the other running tights I tested, these leggings are undoubtedly worth the splurge!

Cons

Did I mention these leggings were tight? I thought so. Though their form fit does keep these leggings in place, be wary of the material digging into your obliques. While it certainly wasn’t unbearable, these probably aren’t the ideal athleisure pant to pair with your favorite light sweater for a night out. If you’re after a running legging that you can transform from gym wear to a casual date night outfit, opt for the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings instead.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2r611ec”] Get them from lululemon [/link-button]
[sol title=”Athleta Up For Anything ⅞ Tight” subheader=”Size XS—Available in Plus, Petite, and Tall Sizes“]
If you’re searching for a running legging that’s exceedingly functional yet slightly less form fitting than the lululemon Speed Up Tight, I strongly suggest the Athleta Up For Anything ⅞ Tight. From comfortable compression to reflective properties, these leggings have it all.

Pros

Touting similar pockets as the lululemon Speed Up Tight, these Athleta running leggings keep valuables like smartphones snug against the body throughout heavy training sessions thanks to the well-placed zipper, which adds an additional layer of security.
The material feels silky to the touch and doesn’t pill after wearing or washing. One of my favorite features of this running legging is the level of compression. These leggings provide enough support and compression without restricting your ability to, you know, breathe. The ⅞ length is ideal for women with a shorter stature and the Up For Anything Tight is tailored to the calves, so there’s no need to worry about the fabric bunching up around your ankles.
As if that wasn’t enough, these leggings have one more exciting feature that night runners are sure to enjoy. For an added layer of safety, you can roll up the bottoms of these running leggings to reveal reflective detailing. This subtle addition makes these ideal for your nighttime trek.

Cons

It’s hard to find anything negative to say about these running tights. My one critique is that the paneling for the side pockets could have slightly less material as they have a bit of a bulky appearance. Aside from that, these running leggings are as close to perfect as you can get!
[link-button href=”http://fave.co/2D95152″] Get them from Athleta [/link-button]
[related article_ids=24000,26396]

Tags Commerce, search

In the Kitchen Nosh

Healthy Snack Ideas For Work: 18 Ways To Deliciously Beat The Midday Slump

Post author By Ashley Linkletter
Post date May 10, 2018

If you’ve ever felt bored by your healthy snack options at work, we’ve got you covered. With 18 healthy office snacks you can make at home or in the break room—along with nutritious and filling options to grab on the go—consider this your official guide to snacking smart at work.
There are many reasons to include healthy office snacks at work, one of the most important being staying focused and energetic throughout the day. Yeiji Jang is a registered dietitian with a strong interest in healthy snacking habits who sums up the importance of healthy office snacking habits by saying:

The main benefit or goal of keeping your body fueled consistently throughout the day has to do with maintaining the blood sugar levels within optimal range. This has a wide-reaching effect on your whole body. For example, your brain uses glucose as its main source of fuel. All foods contribute to raising the blood sugar, which in turn keeps the brain fed to keep you focused on your work. Your body uses it to keep energized so that you can get through the day without experiencing a midday slump!

Snacking wisely and choosing healthy work snack options throughout the day “can help [keep] the blood sugar levels stable to keep you energized [and] focused and curb hunger between meals, which may prevent you from overeating during the next meal or choosing something easy but not nutritionally balanced,” Jang explains. She suggests thinking of healthy snacks not just in terms of caloric value but as small meals that should maximize nutritional gains as a part of a whole.

Healthy Snacking at Work 101

Generally speaking, healthy office snacks should “contain a mix of carbohydrate (quick energy), healthy fats, and protein (for sustained fullness [and] slower rise in blood sugar),” Jang says, although she notes each snack doesn’t necessarily have to contain all three components at once.
She also recommends sticking with whole grains whenever possible, buying pre-packaged snacks that are around 200 calories or less, eating slowly, and paying attention to what your body needs. Sometimes you might just need a good stretch or a quick walk around the office!
Finally, Jang advises staying well hydrated throughout the day with something besides coffee: “often thirst is mistaken for hunger. So before going for a snack, get something to drink.”

Pay attention to snacking at work and while you’re on social media.

It’s tempting to use downtime at work for browsing social media, but beware of spending too much time looking at delicious food. While it can be inspirational to look at beautiful food photography, even the healthy kind, these images can send false hunger cues to your brain.
Jang says that while regularly timed snacking is good for maintaining energy levels and mental alertness, it’s very important to make sure you’re listening to your own body and not the influence of exterior cues:

The timing of the snack depends on many factors. Some say don’t go without eating anything for more than three hours, which I think is not a bad idea. But I think it also varies between individuals and also what their previous meal was, when they ate, and their portion size. While it’s important to keep your body fueled to stay productive at work, we also don’t want to eat when we don’t need to. It’s hard to tell the natural cue today because we’re surrounded by food/cues to eat. This isn’t only because of their direct presence but because of social media. (Instagram can be very powerful when it comes to making you think that you are hungry and need that almond butter cookie now!)

18 Healthy Office Snack Ideas to Get You Started

Sweet Work Snacks

1. Dried fruit (¼ cup) + cheese (1 oz)

Combining a serving of your favorite cheese with a small portion of dried fruit will keep you feeling full (and fancy!) when you’re at work. It’s important to make sure the dried fruit you choose as a snack has no extra added sugar, as this packs in unnecessary and empty calories (and dried fruit is sweet enough as it is).
Although dried fruit does contain more calories than fresh fruit, dried fruit is a great source of concentrated nutrients and a natural pairing to most cheeses. Whether you’re a fan of fontina, a connoisseur of Camembert, or gaga for Gruyère, you can feel good about eating that cheese, as recent studies have found a correlation between eating cheese and maintaining heart health!

2. Banana + dark chocolate chips (1 Tbsp.)

Bananas are a fantastic option for combating mid-afternoon hunger pangs. With 3 grams of fiber per medium-sized banana and plenty of pectin (a type of resistant starch that helps you feel fuller longer), you should definitely be going bananas over bananas! Dark chocolate chips are full of antioxidants, and studies have shown that merely tasting chocolate is enough to improve your mood.

3. Non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt (½ cup) + raspberries (½ cup)

Greek yogurt has been enjoying well-deserved time in the spotlight over the past several years and is a great option for a healthy work snack. It’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, and including Greek yogurt in your diet has been shown to correlate with long-term weight loss. Up the fiber factor by adding raspberries. A half-cup serving contains 4 grams of fiber, which will help stave off hunger pangs.

4. Unsweetened applesauce (½ cup) + graham crackers (2) + Laughing Cow Light cheese (2 triangles)

Got a case of the cookie cravings? Graham crackers are a less sweet (but still satisfying) alternative to those chocolate chip cookies calling your name from the break room. Spread two graham crackers with Laughing Cow Light cheese (with 25 calories and over 2 grams of protein per triangle, this handy snack is a valuable addition to your stash) and dip in a bowl of unsweetened applesauce.
The combination is pleasantly sweet without being cloying, and the applesauce is a good source of soluble fiber.

5. If you’re short on time:

Nothing But the Fruit Real Fruit Bites
Made from dried fruit with no added sugar, these fruit bites are reminiscent of fruit gummies or leather but in a much healthier and more adult form. For a filling snack, pair with a serving of cheese or a small handful of nuts.

Savory Work Snacks

6. Blue corn chips (1 oz) + salsa (½ cup) + Greek yogurt (¼ cup)

The trick to enjoying corn chips is to stick to a single ounce serving, which can be anywhere from 6 to 15 chips. Measure them out beforehand and you won’t be tempted to snack through the whole bag.
Blue corn chips contain slightly higher amounts of two nutrients: lysine (an amino acid) and anthocyanin (an antioxidant), although they’re generally still high in fat and salt.
Tomato salsa is high in antioxidants, and if it contains spicy chili peppers, even better. Promising research has shown that people who eat lots of spicy peppers were less likely to die during the duration of the six-year study than those who didn’t. Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative to sour cream and adds a protein and calcium boost to your snack.

7. Pretzels (1 oz) + Hummus (2.5 oz)

With about a third less calories than an ounce of plain potato chips, pretzels are a smart snacking option that will still tick all the right boxes if you’re in the mood for something salty. A few tablespoons of hummus will add fiber, protein, and extra flavor. Try making your own hummus in batches at home or buy large tubs from the deli section in the grocery store.

8. If you’re short on time:

Veggicopia Dips
These cute little 2.5-oz cups of hummus are small enough to be stowed in your purse but large enough to leave you feeling satisfied. This variety pack includes 12 shelf-stable hummus packets in original, roasted red pepper, and edamame flavors.

9. Tapenade (1 oz) + unsalted brown rice cakes (2)

Tapenade, a delicious tangy spread made from black or green olives and capers, is a super-flavorful way to incorporate more olive products in your diet. Based on their role in the Mediterranean diet, studies have shown that olives contain plenty of anti-cancer agents and antioxidants. Tapenade has such a rich taste it works best when spread thinly on crunchy unsalted brown rice cakes.

10. If you’re short on time:

Epic Bars
Love the idea of protein bars but without all the sweetness? Epic Bars are made from all-natural meat products such as bison, beef, chicken, bacon, salmon, and venison. Perfect for a paleo office snack, these bars offer some serious protein per serving and come in a variety of flavors so there’s a new snack option for every day of the week.

Creamy Work Snacks

11. Guacamole (2 Tbsp.) + rye crackers (2)

Consider this snack a mini-version of avocado toast, the breakfast food that’s been dominating social media for the past year. As if you need any other excuse to eat guacamole, studies have shown that lutein- and zeaxanthin-rich avocados are great for healthy and youthful-looking skin. Rye crackers contain plenty of fiber, manganese, and copper, and consuming whole-grain foods has been shown to help lower blood pressure.

12. Oatmeal made with water or skim milk (½ cup) + almond butter (1 Tbsp.)

Did you know that everyone’s favorite breakfast food, oatmeal, also makes an amazing and filling mid-morning or afternoon office snack idea? Besides being creamy and filling, oats have been shown to have both anti-cancer and LDL cholesterol–lowering properties.
A swirl of almond butter (or the nut butter of your choice) will add healthy fats and extra protein, which means you’ll be energized for hours after this snack.

13. Skyr (½ cup) + pomegranate seeds (2 Tbsp.) + granola (1 Tbsp.)

If you’ve never heard of skyr, you aren’t alone. This ultra-creamy Icelandic dairy product is only now beginning to appear in dairy cases across North America. With a texture that’s similar to very thick yogurt but with a milder and less-tangy flavor similar to ricotta cheese, skyr is higher in protein and lower in calories than Greek yogurt.
Tart pomegranate seeds have a wide range of positive health effects, including anti-cancer agents, anti-inflammatory effects, and anti-fungal properties, and have even been shown to have anti-plaque effects in your mouth. A small amount of granola isn’t necessary but provides a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy skyr. If you can’t find skyr at your local grocery store you can buy it online and have it delivered right to the office.

14. Tzatziki (2 Tbsp.) + whole grain pita (1 small) + cucumber (½ cup cut into matchsticks)

Tzatziki, a yogurt-based dip usually made with shredded cucumber, garlic, and dill or mint, is a perfect low-fat filling for this simple roll-up. Spread the tzatziki in a thin layer across the pita and add the cucumber, rolling the pita bread into a tight wrap (you can also stuff the pita bread with the tzatziki and cucumber, if that’s easier).
Choosing a whole-grain pita over white means you’ll benefit from extra fiber, which has been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Crunchy

15. Trail mix (2 Tbsp.) + pear slices (1 pear)

Either make your own trail mix from your favorite nuts, seeds, and healthy cereals or choose one of the many commercially available brands available in grocery stores or online. Trail mix is extremely calorie dense, so make sure to avoid trail mix containing candy, chocolate, added salt or sugar, or fried ingredients.
Trail mix with plenty of nuts is a healthy choice in small portions, as studies have shown nut consumption can be beneficial to cardiovascular health. Depending on their ripeness, pears can add extra crunch or a complementary soft texture. Studies have shown that including fresh fruit in your daily diet can actually lower your risk for diabetes.

16. Celery (2 stalks) + crunchy natural almond butter (2 Tbsp.) + dried cranberries with no added sugar (2 Tbsp.)

Think of this snack as the adult version of ants on a log, the snack most of us remember from our preschool and kindergarten days. Rich in vitamin K, celery is a super low-calorie vehicle for crunchy, protein-packed almond butter. (Peanut, sunflower seed, or cashew butter is also yummy!)
If you don’t like the idea of having to leave a jar of almond butter in the fridge, Justin’s Classic Almond Butter comes in small packets ideal for single servings to incorporate into any snack. Think of dried unsweetened cranberries as sophisticated raisins; not only are they deliciously tart, but multiple studies have shown strong evidence that cranberries may have beneficial effects on blood pressure and inflammation.

17. Roasted chickpeas (2.5 oz)

Packed with protein, vitamin A, and fiber, roasted chickpeas are easy to make and are the ultimate blank canvas for almost any flavor combination you can think of. More of a savory type of gal? Experiment with flavor combinations such as sea salt and rosemary, curry powder and turmeric, smoked paprika and garlic, or pesto with chili flakes.
If you crave sweets, try roasting chickpeas with maple syrup and pink Himalayan salt, any nut or seed butters you like, pumpkin spice, or dust them with cocoa powder and coconut sugar. Love the idea of snacking on roasted chickpeas but don’t want to make them yourself? The Good Bean makes single-serving packets that are ideal for stashing in your desk drawer!

18. Air-popped popcorn (3 cups) + nutritional yeast (2 Tbsp.)

Yearning for cheesy popcorn but trying to avoid dairy? Nutritional yeast has a very similar flavor to cheese, is 100 percent vegan, and is a good source of vitamin B12 so you can still reap the benefits of a plant-based diet. Air-popped popcorn is very low in calories, which means you can eat three cups of it for under 100 calories.

Tags Commerce, search

Mindful Parenting Motherhood

The Baby Sleep Guide Every Mom Needs To Read

Post author By Abigail Rasminsky
Post date May 8, 2018

It’s the bane of every new mom’s existence: sleep. Or, more accurately, the lack thereof. A major lack thereof in some cases, for months (or even years).
Second to the pain of not sleeping? Getting 1,000 mixed messages about how to deal with your baby not sleeping. Should I let him cry it out? (Or is that too traumatic?) Should I rock her until she’s asleep? (Or is that creating a bad habit?) Should I sit in the room? Should I leave him alone to learn to self-soothe?

When some people hear baby sleep training, they immediately think of the Cry It Out Method. But the truth is, there are as many approaches to baby sleep training as there are babies, and that amount of choice can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when you are so, well, sleep deprived. The most important thing to keep in mind? It is possible to do what’s best for your baby and for your family. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad or guilty for the choices you make.

How does sleep deprivation affect you?

Not sleeping is no joke—any new parent can tell you how utterly debilitating it is. It impacts every single part of your life. It robs you of your ability to think clearly and to remember things. It weakens your immune system and your reflexes, making you more accident prone. It increases your risk of diabetes and heart attacks and lowers your sex drive. It can also cause depression and anxiety. Lack of sleep can even contribute to the complex recipe for postpartum depression.

In other words, everything is harder when you’re not sleeping.
But the sleep deprivation of early motherhood will end one day. Eventually, your little one will sleep through the night. Your new normal might be a 6 a.m. wake up, but that will seem like heaven after being up every hour all night long!

Why is getting baby on a sleep schedule good for mom and dad?

You still matter! That’s the short answer.
The longer answer is this: We all need time to refuel, and this is virtually impossible when there is zero time set aside for you.
“Having a baby on a schedule”—more on that below—“allows parents to have a life,” explains Kiri Gurd, PhD, MSC, sleep consultant at Baby Sleep Science, a sleep resource center that offers private consultations, educational materials, and a sleep app. “If your baby only naps in the stroller or the car, you’re not using that time to recuperate, sleep, or do an activity that feeds you.” Likewise, if you’re spending four hours a night struggling to get your baby to sleep, you have no time for adult activities—like couple’s time or going out with friends.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Taking a more systemic approach to sleep—thinking of it as one would nutrition—is helpful. You wouldn’t deny yourself food! It’s so important for the health of the family.”
—Kiri Gurd, PhD[/pullquote]
If you feel guilty, know this: “Sleep is as important to babies as food,” explains Gurd. “And more research shows that lack of sleep is an indicator for disease, anxiety, and depression in mothers.” She encourages moms to think about what exactly they’re feeling guilty about—the fact that the baby is crying? That she’s taking a shower when she should be gazing at the baby? There are lots of different stressors, she explains, including mom being depressed.

She says, “Taking a more systemic approach to sleep—thinking of it as one would nutrition—is helpful. You wouldn’t deny yourself food! It’s so important for the health of the family.”
Still, Gurd understands that moms have guilt about doing anything for themselves, but argues that they do not need to justify it. “If you need a rationale, I’d say it makes you a better mom. Having free time is not a luxury; it’s a requirement.”

Learning to sleep is a skill.

“Sleep training options are generally perpetuated in a binary way,” Gurd explains. And the rhetoric around that binary often deals in great extremes: “Either you do cry it out and your baby will cry forever, or you’ll co-sleep until they’re 9.” In reality though, your options for teaching your little one to sleep are much more varied—and don’t mean crying forever or bedsharing until middle school.
Gurd and the team at Baby Sleep Science don’t espouse conforming to one method. They lead by what is developmentally fair for the child, based on the science of sleep. “Sleep is so particular to each family,” she explains. “If you don’t feel comfortable with the method you’re using, you won’t be consistent, so it won’t work.”

She explains that some discomfort—as well as mom guilt—is often alleviated if families understand the science of sleep and the baby’s brain development, but the bottom line is this: We can teach kids to sleep, and we should.
Here’s why: We help our kids learn a number of skills in their lives—to eat, sit, stand, walk, read, write. “When they learn to ride a bike, we don’t just give them a bike and say, ‘Good luck!’” Gurd says. “Or, conversely, if they fall off the first time they try, we don’t say, ‘You clearly can’t do this.’”
“Learning to sleep is like learning any new skill,” she explains. “It’s both psychological and physiological. To learn to [linkbuilder id=”6639″ text=”fall asleep”] on our own requires that the body learns a series of steps that move us into a more relaxed state.” That’s the physiological piece. Psychologically, a baby needs to understand, for example, that she’s safe in her crib.
[pullquote align=”center”]“You’re teaching them a healthy habit. They are sad and confused and you’re going to help them through it, like you will with a million things in their life.”
—Kiri Gurd, PhD[/pullquote]
And yes, oftentimes there’s resistance to sleep training, which usually means the baby cries. Sometimes a little, sometimes a lot. “Our discomfort is with the emotions,” Gurd says. “But if you’re doing a method you believe in, that’s biologically sound at an appropriate age, you’re teaching them a healthy habit. They are sad and confused and you’re going to help them through it, like you will with a million things in their life.”
Jane Rosen, PsyD, MA, PhD, and director of a preschool in Los Angeles, concurs. “When parents start to sleep train, it’s often the first time they’re setting a limit, which is hard,” she says. “It’s the beginning of parenting in a much different way.”

How do I know my baby is ready to sleep train?

“The first thing to guide sleep training is the developmental age of child,” Gurd explains. “We can’t do it at 4 or 5 weeks—the child doesn’t have the neurological capacity.” Generally speaking, babies experience a cognitive surge around 4 months, Rosen says. Most parents experience this as the dreaded four-month sleep regression, when all hell breaks loose and whatever schedule you’ve established falls apart.

Many sleep consultants begin sleep training at this point because babies are developmentally capable of self-soothing—and they are finally sleeping in sleep cycles. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Healthy Children website notes that babies do not have regular sleep cycles until they’re about 6 months old, so some professionals recommend waiting a bit longer to start working on some form of sleep training.
In other words, when your baby starts waking up during what had formerly been a long stretch of sleep at night—whether it was 4 or 8 hours—it’s time to start teaching him to sleep.

But I’m scared to sleep train! What if she doesn’t stop crying?

It’s normal to feel nervous about sleep training. It is almost impossible to expect your child not to cry when you suddenly start, say, putting her down at 7 p.m. and leaving the room rather than rocking her for hours upon hours.
[pullquote align=”center”]“The baby had you sleep trained, and now you’re changing it up. That’s not harmful.”
—Jane Rosen, PsyD, PhD[/pullquote]
That said, “every change is accompanied by crying,” Rosen says. “The baby is fussing and saying, ‘I don’t like this.’ The baby had you sleep trained, and now you’re changing it up. That’s not harmful.”
Given that there will be crying or screaming for a few consecutive nights, “you need to be at point where this is worth it,” Gurd says. “If you’re so tired already, it makes the process harder because you’re already feeling really messed up.”

She suggests starting sleep training before you’re completely out of your mind with sleeplessness. “Once you see that stretch of sleep go awry at 4 months, that’s a good point to start [laying the foundation].” At 6 months old, a baby can be trained to sleep through the night (but not so at 4 months when they’re still not developmentally ready).

How much should my baby be sleeping?

According to experts at Baby Sleep Science, the following amounts of sleep are developmentally appropriate for baby:

Newborn to 4 months

A newborn doesn’t have a schedule yet, so your main goal is to just surrender to her “schedule.” Let her eat, sleep, and play on demand. The key thing is to not let the baby get overtired or keep her up too long.
Naps: 4 to 5 naps, on demand
Total Sleep: 15 to 16 hours within a 24-hour period (unfortunately not all at once!)

4 to 6 months

A schedule is revealing itself! Hooray! Baby shouldn’t be up for longer than 2 to 2½ hours between naps. During this time, you should try to have the baby sleep in the same place for naps and bedtime, says Rosen. No more moving the baby around wherever you go.
Naps: 3 naps, with the third being the shortest
Total Day Sleep: 3 to 4½ hours
Total Night Sleep: 10 to 12 hours

6 to 9 months

Baby’s schedule should be becoming more set in stone. During this phase, baby usually drops one nap, moving from 3 to 2 naps a day.
Naps: 2 naps
Total Day Sleep: 3 to 4 hours
Total Night Sleep: 10½ to 12 hours

9 to 15 months

Most babies sleep through the night at this point. They usually drop one of their two naps around 12 months, taking just one nap a day through toddlerhood.
Naps:1 nap
Total Day Sleep: 3+ hours up to 12 months, then down to 2 to 2½ hours after their first birthday
Total Night Sleep: 10½ to 12 hours

Tips for Getting Your Baby to Sleep

Create sleep cues.

Five of them, to be exact, according to Gurd. Sleep cues are actions that are repeated every night, exactly the same way. They become cues that teaching your baby she’s about to go to sleep. These happen after bath time and pajamas. An example would be:

Dim the lights in the bedroom.
Put the baby in a sleep sack.
Read a book.
Sing a song.
Put the sound machine on.

Note that these should only take 15 minutes in total—any longer than this and the baby won’t associate them with sleep. This applies for slightly older kids, too, but again, keep it short because a 2-year-old will just assume you’re onto another fun activity and not register that these actions are connected to sleep if they take too long.

Don’t vary bedtime—or wake time.

Performing the same rituals is important, but so is sticking to the clock. “Keep bedtime and wake time within a 30-minute window,” says Gurd. Obviously things will come up, but just like adults, babies sleep better when they do it around the same time every night.
Rosen recommends that kids up to age 5 go to sleep as close to 7 p.m. as possible. Once you start pushing the cortisol levels by keeping them up later, all hell breaks loose. In other words, your fantasy that keeping your baby up late will make her sleep in? That’ll backfire.

That said, Gurd and the folks at Baby Sleep Science believe that while being overtired (as well as under-tired!) can make it more difficult for a child to fall asleep and stay asleep during the first part of the night, as long as their schedule is age appropriate, there is no “right” bed time—early or late. Bed times, they say, can vary from family to family—just not night to night!—depending on what works best for baby’s family and their lives. As Gurd says, “I have a family putting their 1-year-old to bed at 10 p.m. and waking at 9 a.m., and that’s totally healthy.”

Be realistic about your expectations.

Understanding how much a baby should sleep at any given phase of development will go a long way toward setting realistic expectations. A lot of baby sleep sites will tell you that sleep begets sleep.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Sleep begets sleep up until the limit of your sleep.”
—Kiri Gurd, PhD[/pullquote]
This is true on some level, “but there’s only a certain amount of sleep any person can do in a 24-hour period!” says Gurd. “Sleep begets sleep up until the limit of your sleep.”
When you’re looking at averages—i.e., a 12- to 18-month-old will sleep between two and three hours during the day—consider that this is a big spread in terms of age and hours of sleep. So within this six-month age range, the 12-month-old will nap longer and more often than the 18-month-old.

Create the right sleep environment.

Babies are a lot like us: They need a peaceful environment in which to rest. In fact, research shows that we all sleep best in a room that is dark, cool, and quiet. This means a few things:

Don’t overdress the baby. If she’s too hot, she won’t sleep well. (It’s also associated with SIDS.) Make sure she’s sufficiently covered, but know that a cool nose or fingers are fine. If baby seems flushed or is sweating, she’s overdressed.
Make the room dark. Really. This is what blackout curtains are for! You can use small nightlights, but keep them far from the child and opt for orange hues.
Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Yes, it would be ideal if your little one could sleep anywhere, but after about 4 months old, this is not ideal. You want your child to rest in a peaceful, calm room and learn that sleep is a sacred act that happens in one place. If the room isn’t quiet (city dwellers will probably hear noise from the street), consider using a noise machine with a constant sound (rainfall or waves), and keep it on all night, not just for the time when baby is drifting off to sleep. This will help him go back to sleep if he’s suddenly woken. Remember, too, that from 4 months on, babies have a tremendous fear of missing out. They used to cry because they were wet or hungry—now they cry because they want company and fear not being invited to the party. FOMO: It starts early.

Be consistent.

Babies, like adults, thrive on consistency. Once you establish a sleep routine, stick with it. Babies will be confused if they’re being rocked to sleep one night and left to cry it out the next. Older children will try to slip through whatever loophole you leave. (“But Mommy! You rubbed my back last night! I can’t fall asleep without it now!”)

Use a transitional object.

A blankie (for an older baby), a bear, whatever—preferably something that smells like mommy or daddy—should be incorporated into baby’s nighttime routine. It helps them not feel quite so alone and helps them associate an object with restful slumber.

And most importantly, follow this piece of advice.

“If I could give one gift to a new mom, it would be this: Don’t worry about bad habits,” says Gurd.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Keep your baby safe, help him sleep. Just enjoy your baby.”
—Kiri Gurd, PhD[/pullquote]

“Keep your baby safe, help him sleep. Just enjoy your baby. I wish them less anxiety about it all.” She adds that this culture of shaming moms for creating “bad habits” is detrimental to mothers.
“Newborn babies want to be held to sleep—and that’s not the end of world!”

Tags Commerce, search

Favorite Finds Sweat

Sweat Tested: The Best Leggings For Yoga (And Hot Yoga)

Post author By Lauren Bondi
Post date May 7, 2018

I got to to do some hip-opening, root chakra–grounding binds while sporting these leggings and was pleasantly surprised by their flexibility. No chafing and no cutting in, even as I was breathing through my flying lizard lunge! The Live In High Waist is true to its description, sitting just above the belly button. The leggings stayed in place throughout my yoga flow—no adjustments necessary. The crotch is also comfortable with or without underwear, which is great for poses like bird of paradise and happy baby. I would gladly wear these out and about, which means these yoga leggings stay true to their name.

Cons

Some will love the thickness and compression of the Live In Legging, but for those who break a serious sweat, a quick change after class (or a more moisture-wicking pair of leggings, like the Nike Pro HyperCool Training Tight) will be welcome since the material can feel a bit clammy. If you already love the ZELLA Live In Legging but are looking for something for hot yoga, opt for ZELLA’s Lightweight High Waist Midi Leggings or their High Waist Mesh Crop.
These yoga pants are prone to clinging and are likely to pill if not handled carefully. Also, if you’re petite and bothered by scrunching at the ankle or want yoga pants with a pocket that can hold more than a card, cash, or a loose key, opt for the Athleta Up For Anything ⅞ Tight.
Reminds me of: A long, warm hug
[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/ImD3″] Get them from Nordstrom [/link-button]
[related article_ids=24021,26396]

Tags Commerce, search

Favorite Finds Motherhood

Get It For Your Mama: 18 Thoughtful Gifts Your Mom Will Love

Post author By Megan Senseney
Post date May 5, 2018

Mother’s Day is right around the corner; if you’re forgetful, go ahead and mark May 13 on your calendar now. The default is gifting Mom with something simple—like a bouquet of fresh flowers, a card, or maybe even a lunch out—and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’re thinking of stepping up your game this year, we’re here to help.
Whether she’s always looking for the latest in tech, knows how to rock a great piece of jewelry, or just wants a good night’s sleep, we’ve got a gift that’ll make this Mother’s Day stand out.

For the Mom Who Loves Jewelry

Does your mom never leave the house without an accessory or two? This year, gift her with a stylish new piece with a personal touch. The best part is that you won’t have to spend a fortune to get her something she’ll treasure.

Custom Pendant

This piece’s minimal design will still have a big impact. After making a cast of your fingerprint (the price of the necklace comes with everything you need to do this easily), you mail the print back to the necklace maker. They’ll use your print and your initials to create a unique necklace for your mom.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2GcZ6uA”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Personalized Cuff Bracelet

If bracelets are more her thing, you can still create a piece of jewelry that’s truly made just for your mom. Customize a cuff that’s engraved with your own handwriting for a one-of-a-kind piece. Tell her you love her or just pen an uplifting message that she can turn to day after day.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/Bytj”] Get it from Etsy [/link-button]

Family Tree Necklace

Opt for this eye-catching necklace for a pop of color that’s personalized for your mom. The gems on the necklace represent her children’s birthstones, and there are small gold leaves stamped with the initial of each child. The necklace can also be made with silver if that’s more her style.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/BywM”] Get it from Etsy [/link-button]

For the Mom Who Drinks Wine

What mom doesn’t love to unwind with a nice glass of wine? Whether she’s a total aficionado or just likes to relax with a glass every now and then, you can get her a fun gift to go along with one of her favorite bottles.

Mom Fuel Wine Glass

The end of a long day with a glass of her go-to wine is when Mom gets to really relax and recharge. This Mom Fuel wine glass will put a smile on her face as she sips the stress of her day away.

[link-button href=”http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/5339270/type/dlg/https://www.papersource.com/item/Mom-Fuel-Wine-Glass/3325.010/10000682.html”] Get it from Paper Source [/link-button]

Rewined Candle

If a bottle of wine is your usual gift for your vino-loving mom, here’s a clever way to switch things up. Soy wax candles are scented to mimic notes in some of the most popular wines, and they’re poured in repurposed wine bottles, making this an eco-friendly gift that she won’t expect.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/Byxz”] Get it from West Elm [/link-button]

Custom Map Wine Coaster

Does your mom have a favorite spot for grabbing a glass of wine? Help bring that spot into her home with this customized wine coaster that features a map with whatever location you’d like.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/ByzQ”] Get it from West Elm [/link-button]

For the Mom Who Hits the Spa

Mom might not always have the time or money to take a trip to the spa, but you can help her create her own spa-like experience at home. Even if she likes to be pampered, don’t worry about spending a ton—you can totally gift her with a spa experience on the cheap.

Bathtub Caddy

When Mom can’t get to the spa, a nice bath is the next best thing. Help her make it truly relaxing with this bamboo bath caddy, complete with a book stand, wine glass holder, and a spot for her razor and loofah.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2GahKU7″] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Massage

If your mom is more about getting pampered than pampering herself, treat her to a relaxing spa day. Use a site like Groupon to find great deals on spa experiences you know she’ll love, like massages, facials, and more.

[link-button href=”http://fave.co/2oX1f6f”] Find Deals On Groupon [/link-button]

Spa Night Kit

For the times when mom can’t make it to the spa, help her bring the spa home with a spa night kit. Pick out a nice candle, some scented bath salts, and a rejuvenating face mask so she can have a relaxing soak in the tub surrounded by all of the elements of her favorite spa.

For the Mom Who Knows Tech

We realize that most people aren’t going to run out and splurge on a new phone for their mom, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your tech-loving mom something that’s right up her alley. It’s all about the accessories, and we’ve got a few picks that we know she’ll love.

Bedside Smartphone Vase

Since you’re probably planning to gift mom with some fresh flowers anyway, why not get her something handy to put them in? This multipurpose bedside stand is perfect for propping your phone up while it charges overnight, and it also adds a sleek decorative element when it’s filled with some fresh blooms.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/A7tp”] Get it from Uncommon Goods [/link-button]

Kids’ Art Phone Case

If you have younger children or siblings, a customized phone case is a great way to create a gift that they’re in on. All you have to do is upload a photo of the artwork you’d like to feature, and the experts at Casetify will duplicate that work on a one-of-a-kind phone case for your mom.

[link-button href=”https://www.casetify.com/custom-cases/kids-creative-diy-phone-case?utm_campaign=233970&irpid=71333&irmpname=Digital%20Window%20Inc.&sharedid=78888-Skimlinks&utm_medium=smarterchaos&utm_source=affiliate”] Get it from Casetify [/link-button]

Digital Photo Frame

Mom is always asking for new photos of her kids and grandkids, so why not give her hundreds at once? This digital frame is controlled from an app, so you can easily upload new photos every day for Mom to display in her home. Available at Amazon, Bloomingdales, Best Buy, and Aura Frames.

[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2K41pkK”] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

For the Mom Who’s a Sentimental Soul

Moms appreciate any gift they get from their children, but there are some who’d really rather receive something simple and sentimental. These are often the moms who are hardest to select a gift for, but we’ve got some special finds that’ll help you surprise her.

Letters to Mom

Do you ever wish you could express how much you love your mom even when she’s not there? With the Letters to My Mom booklet, you can write your mom letters that she can open whenever she pleases for a sweet reminder of how much you care.

[link-button href=”http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/5339270/type/dlg/https://www.papersource.com/item/Letters-to-My-Mom/3303_034/9781452149219.html”] Get it from Paper Source [/link-button]

Long-Distance Touch Lamp

Moving away from family is hard, but it can be a little easier to bear with these lamps. When one person turns on their lamp, the other one begins to glow too, connecting you and your mom no matter where each of you are in the world.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/A7sx”] Get it from Uncommon Goods [/link-button]

Printable Coupon Book

If you truly can’t think of what to get for your mom, a coupon book will give her a little bit of everything. She’ll love redeeming coupons from her booklet when she’s craving freshly baked cookies, her car needs a wash, or she’s tired of watching your favorite show and wants to steal the remote.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/ByGk”] Get it from Etsy [/link-button]

For the Mom Who Just Needs Some Sleep

We can’t think of anyone who’s more deserving of a great night’s rest than a hard-working mom. Whether she’s always claiming to just be “resting her eyes” or she needs a good nap, help her get one with these gifts that are perfect for the mom who appreciates some good shuteye.

Pajamas

Pajamas are a great way to encourage Mom to relax and get some rest. These ultra-soft PJs are perfect for lounging or crawling into bed. Chances are Mom won’t ever want to take them off.

[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/A7ql”] Get them from Nordstrom [/link-button]

SLIP Silk Pillowcase

Treat your mom to a luxurious sleep experience with a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases are super smooth and soft and don’t pull at your hair or skin, so your mom can get some great sleep and wake up looking more refreshed, too.

[link-button href=”http://fave.co/2Hn67bT”] Get it from Sephora [/link-button]

Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

If your mom usually has trouble falling asleep, this spray will help. It uses calming lavender essential oil to help her get to sleep faster, so she’ll always wake up feeling rested and ready to seize the day.

[link-button href=”http://amzn.to/2FErqZ6″] Get it from Amazon [/link-button]

Tags Commerce

Happy x Mindful Wellbeing

How To Be A Confident Woman, According To 2 Psychologists And An All-Around Girl Boss

Post author By Katie Martin
Post date May 4, 2018

When I was in first grade, I won a countywide writing award for my creative masterpiece, The Magic Rock, about—you guessed it—a magic rock. My success fueled my dreams of being a writer from an early age, and after that, I wrote all the time. By the end of first grade, I knew that I was going to become a famous writer.
Fast forward to almost-adulthood. Even though I had a bold, outgoing personality that screamed “Self-confident lady coming through!” I actually struggled with deep insecurities about my own abilities, appearance, and intelligence. I still wanted to be a writer more than anything, but at my core, I felt that I’d never be good enough to achieve my goals.
So I gave up on writing. I pursued a series of unfulfilling and unsatisfying jobs until a friend offered me a freelance writing gig with her company. I was nervous, but I submitted a writing sample anyway. And to my surprise, the editors loved what I’d written.
So I kept going. I was not going to win a Pulitzer for those blog posts, but it felt great to flex my creative muscles after so many years away from my craft. Getting my first paycheck for my writing was one of the best days of my life. Yes, it was peanuts, but it was real money I earned from writing, a dream I’d had since I was 6 years old. And it gave me the confidence to apply for more writing gigs until last year, when I officially became a full-time writer. Seriously, now I even have business cards, so you know it’s legit.
Often, though, we feel inadequate in our appearance, how we parent, and in the workplace. According to a 2002 Monitor In Psychology article, people who base their self-worth on what others think about them are more likely to have higher levels of stress, anger, and relationship issues.
“Self-confidence impacts how we perceive our health,” says Jim Seibold, PhD, a family therapist based in Arlington, Texas. “Those with higher self-confidence are more likely to view themselves as healthy. Those with higher self-confidence cope more effectively under stress and are low utilizers of physician visits.”
But confidence doesn’t come easy for most women, myself included. That’s why I sought out advice from confident women, like NY-based therapist Kimberly Hershenson, Dallas-based realtor Kathryn Sharrock, and CEO Mae Karwowski to really find out how to be a confident woman.

How to Be a Confident Woman: The Importance of Putting Social Media in Its Place

“Julia’s newest promotion popped up in my newsfeed. When will it be my turn?”
“She probably didn’t mean it, but Rachel’s comment about my weight on my new profile pic really stung. I mean, I just had a baby!”
How many times have you been scrolling through social media and been hurt by something that someone posted?
The effect social media can have on confidence has evolved along with social media itself. In a 2008 study, researchers suggested that people with low self-esteem could benefit from engaging on social media platforms like Facebook because it helped reduce loneliness. Fast forward a decade, and some experts believe that social media can actually have a negative impact on confidence. One recent study found that the more participants used Facebook specifically, the worse they felt about their overall well-being.
“Rude comments or bullying in general can make one feel hurt, sad, or angry, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues,” says Hershenson. “When the rude comments or bullying are online, and you are looking at social media at home or at work, it can be even worse because it is happening to you in a place you should feel safe, and possibly when you are around people [who are] important to you, such as your children.”
It’s also hard to escape online comments because everything on the internet is seemingly forever, and erasing an image or disabling an account we’ve outgrown can feel like it requires an act of Congress.
So, how can you be a confident woman and interact with social media?
Try to limit the amount of time you spend on social media. Over the past year, I found myself feeling sad or upset almost every time I logged onto Facebook. I tried giving up the app by deleting it from my phone, but found myself simply scrolling though on a web browser instead. Even though it made me feel bad, I couldn’t stop looking at it. What if I missed something?
Because I couldn’t quit social media on my own, I downloaded the Freedom app, which blocks social media on your phone for a certain number of hours a day to help you take a healthy break. Instead, use the time you would have spent on social media apps to practice self-care, have a face-to-face interaction with a friend, and practice healthy habits, whether that’s reciting affirmations (more on that to come) or rolling out your yoga mat rather than continuing to scroll down your feed.

Girl Bosses Rule: How to Be a Confident Woman in the Workplace

“I work mostly with women, in a warm, open workspace, and I still feel like there’s a gender confidence gap,” says Dianna Leyton, a digital marketing strategist based in Richmond, Virginia. “I’ve noticed that women, even in a comfortable environment, feel as though they need to be an expert on every topic before speaking up in a meeting or even applying for a job. Men, on the other hand, seem to be more comfortable relying on confidence and ‘winging’ a situation.”
“Research shows that men are more self-assured than women,” Hershenson explains.
She’s right. An eight-year study with participants of both genders from all over the world found that men universally exhibit much higher self-esteem than women. The gender confidence gap, as it’s come to be known, is especially detrimental to women in the workplace.
Confident people tend to speak up more in meetings, criticize leadership with few consequences, and show higher favoritism to those who are similar to them. Since men tend to be more confident than women, this can lead to a woman being overlooked in the workplace. Combine the gender confidence gap with other issues women face in the workplace, and it is no wonder that 95 percent of the CEO positions at S&P 500 companies are held by men.
So what can you do to be a confident woman in the workplace?
”When you’re doing a great job, it’s easy to have confidence,” Karwowski, the founder of her own social influencer firm, Obviously, says. “It’s important to feel stress at work. It means that you are growing and you are getting out of your comfort zone. That growth is vital for you to improve in your career. I always remind myself that any insecurity or doubt means that I’m putting myself in a situation to grow—so I should go for it and do an awesome job!”
“I also take the time each morning to ask myself what my three priorities are for the day and for the week,” Karwowski continues. “ I then ask myself What are the things I’m worried about, and why? For example, I’m worried about this big pitch meeting we have on Thursday. Once you can clarify your concerns, it’s much easier to plan how to tackle that challenge and be ready for it.”
Girl boss Sharrock, who started her own empowering women’s group with two chapters in Texas, shares a tip she practices regularly:
“Start a gratitude journal and become grateful! Write down three things a day that you are thankful for. Your mind will start to naturally see the good in life and in yourself. Last but definitely not least, surround yourself with confident people, people who are going to encourage themselves and you to do great, believe great, and be great.”
Even though Sharrock describes herself as extremely self-confident, she says there are still moments in which she feels totally inadequate. When Sharrock starts feeling less than, though, she has a plan of action to boost her confidence right back up.
“There are so many moments when I feel gross, I feel useless, I wonder if I am living my best life, and that’s okay. When you have a bad day, write down your blessings and fall asleep; you’ll reset and wake up with a whole new mindset and fresh start to knowing [the] badass you really are!”

How to Be a Confident Parent

Women’s confidence issues aren’t just at work. It’s easy to let doubt in our own abilities creep into all aspects of our lives.
“Did I permanently scar my kid when I punished him this afternoon?”
“Misty’s kids never act out. Why is she so much better than me?”
Sound familiar? It’s important to know that you can be a mother and a loving partner while still being a confident woman.
If others (like the snarky third-grade room mom) second guess your parenting choices, the mama bear in you may come out—or you might shy away from the confrontation, and in the process, lose the ability to defend your parenting choices confidently.
“Consistency in parenting is essential for creating confidence and security in your children,” says Seibold. “They are also more likely to consistently follow household rules and expectations because they do not change.”
Proactive parenting is also a sign of confidence, says Seibold.
“Look for opportunities to teach them the values you want them to learn instead of just reacting when there is a problem. …Catch [your kids] living out the values you are teaching and let them know you notice.”
“When you do this,” Seibold says, “you will also have more credibility when you do need to be corrective.”
It’s important to be humble as a parent, and if you’re wrong about something, you should definitely acknowledge that mistake. But all too often, women over-apologize when it isn’t warranted: to their kids, partners, friends, the barista at Starbucks. Perhaps one of the most important things you can do to be a confident woman and parent is to stop apologizing for your actions when an apology isn’t necessary. We apologize because we’re taught that boldness is rude in a woman. Even confident women still tend to couch their requests and desires as “I’m sorry” statements.
What does that teach our daughters? Our sons? None of what we’re after in our search for confident womanhood.
So only apologize when it’s really necessary. And in doing so, teach your children the right kind of confidence.

How to Be a Confident Woman…in the Bedroom

It may be easier to be a confident woman when it comes to your kids, but what happens to that confidence in the bedroom?
Maybe you don’t like how you look naked. Or you’re afraid your partner thinks your sex routine is no longer satisfying. But confidence in the bedroom is critical to a fulfilling, romantic relationship with your partner.
One way to build confidence in the bedroom?
“Don’t apologize for your quirks—things you do or say that others may find different or ‘odd’ are usually what makes you you,” says Hershenson.
If you like when your partner does certain sexy things, don’t be afraid to speak up and let them know. Or, if you like something that’s a little wild, bring it up! Your partner can’t please you if they don’t know what you want. A confident woman knows what she likes and how she likes it, and shouldn’t be afraid to pipe up, even when sex is less than spectacular.
If you’re struggling with body image issues in your romantic relationship, buying yourself some sexy lingerie may help boost your confidence, because when you look good, you really do feel good. When your partner sees you in that new teddy, all they’ll see is a confident woman. And that’s sexy as heck.

Being a confident woman takes practice.

Don’t expect your behavior to change overnight if you struggle with confidence issues. After all, breaking negative habits is hard.
Still, practice really does make perfect. One thing you can start doing to be more confident right away is to stop negative self-talk. Instead, aim to use words of affirmation when talking to and about yourself.
“Start by simply telling yourself that you are great,” says Sharrock. “Words of affirmation are real. You talk to yourself more than anyone else, so make sure your words are kind, they are confident, they are positive to yourself. You may not believe it at first, but you will once it becomes habit.”
Before a big meeting, Karwowski does the same thing to pump herself up.
“Telling yourself in the elevator It’s go time. Time to crush it! actually really works! You need to project confidence in your tone, body language, and speech.”
Banishing negative self-talk will require more than just saying nice things about yourself. You have to mean them, too.
“Self-compassion is being gentle with yourself, not beating yourself up over your past decisions and accepting that you are human and make mistakes,” says Hershenson. “Negating your thoughts or feelings by saying That’s not true isn’t helpful because in your mind, you truly believe you are stupid, ugly, out of shape, et cetera.”
Hershenson’s advice?
“Acknowledge your feelings without discounting them. When you get into a negative headspace, you can simply say, Even though I feel this way, it’s okay; I’m still worth being loved.”
Another confidence tactic is to reframe these negative thoughts about yourself. If you made a mistake, don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, ask yourself why the mistake happened. Was it really your fault? Was the situation beyond your control? How can you move forward? This way, you can turn a negative situation into a positive, confidence-boosting moment.
But, like the superheroes say, “With great power, comes great responsibility.”
“If your confidence leads you to put down others or consistently put yourself first, then your confidence needs to be re-channeled in a healthier direction,” says Hershenson.
In other words, don’t let your newfound confidence let you become a full-fledged jerk. Because it is possible to become too confident. Be respectful (but firm) and apologize for mistakes (when really warranted), and you’ll probably never have to worry about becoming an egomaniac.
It’s tough to be confident as a woman. But as Katty Kay and Claire Shipman write in the introduction to their bestselling book, The Confidence Code, “Life on confidence can be a remarkable thing.”

Tags Commerce, search, sfs-backfill

Lifestyle Well-Traveled

The Packing List You Need To Explore The World With Just A Carry-On

Post author By Joni Sweet
Post date May 1, 2018

It was the last straw. After a long transatlantic flight back from an incredible trip to Portugal, the magic of travel was rapidly fading as I waited longer and longer for my (ridiculously overpacked) suitcase to arrive at baggage claim. I thought the annoyance of my poor packing skills ended when I carried the massive monstrosity down five flights of stairs at my last hotel in Lisbon (cursing every unnecessary dress and pair of shoes on my original packing list with each step).
Now, the frustration was back with a vengeance. And judging by the growing crowd of other weary travelers waiting for their bags, I wasn’t about to find relief anytime soon.
“Never again,” I decided at that moment, and got to work streamlining my packing list for future trips.
I set some ground rules:

Everything must fit into a carry-on (plus a big handbag).
My travel outfits should offer enough variety for city strutting and outdoor adventuring.
Squeezing in a cosmetics and skincare kit is non-negotiable.
Absolutely, positively no more than two pairs of shoes.

After some trial and error, I finally developed a packing list that worked, and I still managed to find room for a few other travel necessities (like a reusable water bottle and a sun hat) in my carry-on bag. I thought I’d long for the items I used to bring with me on my travels, but now I relish in packing light, spending my mornings abroad researching where to find the best croissant instead of picking the perfect outfit, and avoiding the hassle of checked bag fees and delays at baggage claim (or worse: lost bags!).
Planning to travel soon? Now’s the time to start paring down your packing list and picking up functional, fashionable items that will take you from Texas to Timbuktu. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Packing List Basics for Carry-On Only Travel

When you’re planning to use only a carry-on for a trip, you’ve got to have a game plan. Before you pack a single item, jot down a strategic packing list—and stick to it.
A packing list has dual purposes of limiting how much stuff you bring and reminding you to pack the core travel necessities. You probably already have a sense of the clothing, accessories, and other items you tend to bring on every trip. Write it all down and use that as the basis for your packing list. I recommend saving it digitally, so you can refer to it again on future travels.
Then, customize the packing list to meet the needs of your particular trip.
Business trip? Add the laptop and charger, and perhaps a blazer and heels!
Vegas for a girls trip? Don’t forget to pack a flashy dress!
Epic hiking trip? Break out your trail boots, travel towel, and first-aid kit.
Your basic packing list should include everything you typically bring (pants, shirts, sunscreen, etc.) when you’re on the road, but offer flexibility to accommodate what you might need on different types of trips.

Choosing the Perfect Bag for the Perfect Packing List

Your packing list is only as effective as the bag into which you’re squeezing your travel necessities. Traveling with just a carry-on demands that you be unflinchingly particular about your suitcase.
You want to make sure it’s as large as the majority of airlines allow (this handy list gives you carry-on bag dimensions for more than 170 airlines). Spinning wheels and a telescoping handle will make the bag a breeze to drag around the airport. Finally, look for a carry-on with a few pockets that will help you stay organized—you can even categorize your packing list based on what you’re putting in each section of the bag. There are thousands of carry-on bags on the market, and it’s worth taking a shopping trip to test out a few.
Need some guidance on where to start? I recommend the TravelPro Platinum Magna ($299.99). This bag’s large enough to hold everything on my packing list (and then some!), but it fits into the overhead compartment of every plane on which I take it. The carry-on features a special compartment that helps keep dresses smooth—perfect if you’re going to a destination wedding. The self-aligning wheels prevent the bag from getting stuck when navigating through tight squeezes. Finally, if any part of the bag breaks, you can take it to a TravelPro repair center, thus helping you avoid adding more to the local landfill and paying a hefty replacement fee.
Patagonia’s Headway Wheeled Duffel Bag ($329) is my runner-up pick for a carry-on bag. Its nylon material boasts incredible durability, and it has a collapsable internal frame, making it easy to store when not in use. The company ensures that the factories it works with promote fair labor, safe conditions for workers, and practices that are safe for the environment.
Finally, make use of the airline allowance for a “personal item.” I usually take a large purse for anything I might want to use on the plane, like a book, lotion, and headphones. My go-to is my Lug Mini Puddle Jumper Day Bag ($95) because it’s soft and light. The only thing that I love more than the seemingly endless number of compartments (seriously—I’ve had this bag for two years, and I keep finding new ones) is the company’s commitment to supporting children’s charities.

Shop bags:

Clothing to Include on Your Packing List

When building a cohesive travel wardrobe, you have to abide by a few basic principles:

Always choose function over fashion (but hopefully most of your clothes fuse the two together!).
Plan to wear most of your stuff more than once on a trip (mixing and matching will make the outfits look fresh!).
Choose wrinkle-resistant, comfy garments made from natural textiles whenever possible.

What clothing belongs on your packing list? It really depends on the weather, the type of trip, and, most importantly, what you love to wear.

Dresses

My packing list, for instance, always includes a couple of breezy dresses. Everlane has a ton of contenders for your packing list—check out the light drawstring dress ($98), short-sleeve V-neck dress ($98), or the cotton tank dress (just $28!). Reformation’s Rou dress ($98) can easily transition from day to night, and it has that retro silhouette that will stand out in your Instagram pics.

Shop dresses:

Tops

For tops, squeeze in five or six light tanks and tees with varying sleeve lengths, so you’ll be comfortable in any weather.
A laid-back white T-shirt (like the $38 Maggie Tee from Threads 4 Thought) belongs on every packing list—it’s a classic look that can work pretty much anywhere. Amour Vert also has some fun tops, like a cheerful orange tank ($38), v-back flowy tank ($68), striped long-sleeved tee ($78), and roll tab sleeve top ($98).
Since you’re going to wear these more than once, make sure your packing list includes a few different colors and prints to stave off boredom.

Shop tops:

Bottoms

Bottoms can get bulky, so you have to be smart about which ones you include on your packing list.
I recommend two pairs of black leggings (I usually wear one on the plane). These organic cotton leggings ($24) from Pact would be cozy to wear when doing anything active on your trip. A fashionable packing guide should always include your favorite pair of jeans (mine are the $128 high-rise skinnies from Madewell). If the weather’s warm, toss in a pair of denim shorts, otherwise you can feel free to pack a second pair of jeans in another wash for variety.
Finally, I never travel without a crisp, white midi skirt (like this $124 organic cotton option from People Tree)—it can be dressy for a nice dinner, relaxed for the beach, or chic for city sightseeing, and it helps you avoid that frumpy backpacker look.

Shop bottoms:

Outerwear

Even if you’re going to a hot climate, it can feel chilly in the evening. Definitely include a jacket on your packing list.
Joe’s Jeans has an embroidered denim jacket ($328) that’s both snug and stylish. If you love the embroidered look but need something more budget-friendly, check out this one from Old Navy. If you’ve got cold-weather travel plans, you’ll need a packable coat. The Ultra Light Down Jacket ($69.90) from UNIQLO belongs on every winter packing list. I wore it daily on a recent trip to Iceland, and I fell in love with how warm the insulation kept me and how handy it was to roll the jacket into its accompanying pouch.

Shop outerwear:

Shoes

Shoes can be the trickiest part of a packing list. Start with a pair of versatile, comfortable sneakers. My jet-setting friends swear by Allbird’s wool runners ($95). For your second pair, you have options: If it’s cooler or you plan to do a lot of hiking, go for a rugged pair of boots—the Kodiak Surrey II boots ($170) can easily transition from town to the trail. Otherwise, opt for a pair of flat sandals, which pack much more easily. These handmade huarache sandals ($118) from Nisolo will look great with just about any travel outfit, and this pair of sandals ($248) from Cousin has been specially manufactured to withstand wear and tear from walking on urban streets.
And remember my rule about only including two pairs of shoes on your packing list? I usually cheat (shh … don’t tell anyone). I always stash a classic pair of flip-flops somewhere in my bag to protect my feet in showers, at the pool, and when I grab a quick hotel breakfast. Flip-flops don’t really count, right?

Shop shoes:

Extras

Finally, no woman’s packing list is complete without a bathing suit, a couple of pajamas, two bras (in nude and black), a pair of socks for every day of your trip, and an abundance of underwear. I usually start with two pairs of panties for each day of travel, and then frantically toss in a few bonus pairs just in case.

Shop extras:

Accessories for Your Minimalist Packing List

Accessories can pull an entire look together—but beyond a couple pieces of durable, inexpensive pieces of jewelry (seriously, leave your family heirlooms safe at home!), all of the other accessories on your packing list need to be functional.
Sunglasses are a packing-list must—look for ones that won’t break and have an added edge for travel. For example, IZIPIZI travel-friendly sunglasses ($50) or Ray-Ban’s Folding Classic Wayfarer ($168) will fold down to fit into your pocket.
A lightweight crossbody bag to stash your ID, phone, and wallet will also prove useful for day trips and nights out. Matt & Nat’s ruby-red crossbody bag ($75) has just the right amount of space, along with a striking look. If red isn’t your thing, it comes in a variety of other colors, including some great neutrals.
A lost or damaged passport will ruin your trip, so it’s worth investing in a high-quality passport holder. Cuyana’s multipurpose leather passport wallet ($185) will protect your most important piece of identification and hold all of your credit cards, coins, travel documents, and cash in one place. (Pro tip: Keep some spare cash, an emergency credit card if you have one, and a photocopy of your passport somewhere other than your travel wallet; you do not want to be empty-handed if pickpockets strike.)
Finally, a hat is a must. Some women rely on their favorite baseball cap, but I opt for a packable sun hat that makes more of a statement (and protects my fair skin from burns). Don’t forget to include a few hair ties and bobby pins on your packing list if you like to rock a ponytail.

Shop accessories:

Packing List for Personal Care

Paring down my cosmetics and body products was the hardest part of coming up with a carry-on only packing list—those TSA limitations on liquids were the main reason I used to check a bag. But there are some clever ways to abide by the rules and still bring your most trusted products.
If you’re not particular about your shampoo, conditioner, and other liquid personal-care products, scratch them off your packing list—you can pick them up at the destination, or use what’s offered at the hotel. But if you’re like me, and you rely on specific products, invest in a set of silicone travel bottles. They squeeze into a carry-on easily, and you can refill them with your favorite products over and over again.
As for your cosmetics, edit your makeup kit down to the bare essentials. This is easier said than done, and I often have to remind myself that three different tubes of lipstick aren’t necessary for a five-day trip. My travel cosmetics kit includes light foundation (or BB cream), a shimmery blush, highlighter, mascara, and hydrating lipstick. Think about what you’d put on your face if you only had 3-5 minutes to get ready—that’s the only makeup you need when you’re traveling. Throw in a bottle of sunscreen, as well. Your skin will thank you.
It’s easy to forget about moisturizing products, like lip balm and lotion, but they’re worth putting on your packing list. The circulated air in planes can dry out your skin fast, and lotion will help soothe any irritation.
There are tons of other personal care products you’ll want to add to your packing list depending on your specific routine. Here are a few of my travel essentials: nail file, deodorant, disposable razor, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, floss, medicine, vitamins, tampons, and cotton swabs. A look around your bathroom could help inspire what belongs on your packing list.

Shop personal-care travel essentials:

Miscellaneous Travel Necessities for Your Packing List

With all the clothes, shoes, and personal care items on your packing list, your carry-on should look pretty full by now. But believe it or not, there’s a ton of other nooks and crannies you can fill with miscellaneous travel necessities you might want on the road.
Earplugs and noise-canceling earbuds can be a godsend in unexpectedly noisy hotels, and a book can help you get through a long flight. A packable reusable bag (like this $10 grapefruit-print bag from Bando) will be convenient when you go souvenir shopping. Having trouble finding room? Tuck these accessories into your shoes or around your clothes.
Keep up your sustainable efforts by bringing along a reusable water bottle—the aluminum bottles from S’Well are a personal favorite.
Don’t forget to add a phone charger, power bank, and power adapters to your packing list, as well.
Finally, pack your passport, credit cards, and cash. If you’re a hardcore minimalist, all you’d need is these three travel necessities, and you could explore the world with just the clothes on your back. But we’ll stick with what’s on the packing list.

Shop miscellaneous travel necessities:

Need help fitting everything on your packing list into your carry-on?

We’ve got you covered.

[related article_ids=26396]

Tags Commerce, search