Hydration, but make it cute. The best water bottles are here to help you glow.

The New Year is right around the corner. And while that often means the dreaded “r” word (resolutions), we’re not interested in pressuring anyone into starting the new year with any kind of guilt. We know you already have a lot on your plate. If you’re not making any resolutions, then we fully support that! Oh, and if you are? Great! Just assume we totally support you. And what’s more supportive than reminding you to take care of yourself? Step 1: hydrate.

It’s so easy to forget to drink water. Considering everything going on, sticking to the old “8 Glasses a Day” rule is usually the last thing we think about. Part of that has to do with the fact that by the time we actually feel thirsty, we’re already mildly dehydrated. Ideally, we’d be drinking enough water to prevent feeling thirsty in the first place. If we’re truly hydrated, our bodies don’t need to signal our brains to let us know it’s time to start sipping because we’re already ahead of the game. On the other hand, thirst isn’t the only indication of dehydration. Mild headaches, fatigue, even feeling cranky or anxious can all be associated with lacking adequate hydration.

So, in order to keep you feeling your best, energized, and hydrated, we’re going to make it as easy as possible. We’ve put together a round up of some of the cutest, most convenient, and downright easy to use water bottles out there. That way, it’ll be a little easier to remember to keep that water flowing and keep you flowing!

Blogilates 128oz Designer Water Jug

The gallon capacity on this Blogilates Water Jug means you won't have to refill all day, plus the milestone markers keep you motivated! Add the carrying strap and you're set!

Blogilates 128oz Designer Water Jug ($17.99)—Buy Now

Zak! Designs 30oz Double Wall Stainless Steel Cascadia Tumbler

If it fits in cup holders, we're fans! The Zak! keeps your water ice-cold and even prevents condensation.

Zak! Designs 30oz Double Wall Stainless Steel Cascadia Tumbler ($10.00)—Buy Now

YETI Rambler 35oz Mug with Straw Lid

No more will we be using disposable straws! With the YETI Rambler straw lid and cup-holder-ready design, this 35oz mug is your new BFF!

YETI Rambler 35oz Mug with Straw Lid ($42.00)—Buy Now

Takeya Traveler 25oz Insulated Water Bottle with Flip Cap

Leak-proof lid and one-handed flip-top are both bonuses, but the icing on the cake is that your water will stay cold for a whopping 24 hours with the Takeya Traveler!

Takeya Traveler 25oz Insulated Water Bottle with Flip Cap ($35.99)—Buy Now

Takeya Actives 32oz Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Insulated Spout Lid

The benefits of the Takeya water bottle plus a powder-coated finish prevents slipping (even if you're chasing kiddos or working out!) and a carrying handle!

Takeya Actives 32oz Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Insulated Spout Lid ($39.99)—Buy Now

Le Creuset Stainless Steel Hydration Bottle 17oz

Not that we'd expect anything less from Le Creuset, but this stainless steel, scratch-resistant construction and vacuum-sealed screw cap is easily a must-have!

Le Creuset Stainless Steel Hydration Bottle 17oz ($34.95)—Buy Now

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap 24oz

No doubt you've seen Hydro Flask bottles blow up in popularity in recent years, but there's a good reason! Keeps your water at the temp you want it for up to 12 hours and the Hydro Flask powder coating is dishwasher safe.

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap 24oz ($39.95)—Buy Now

Asobu 8oz Skinny Glitter Water Bottle

How can we say no to glitter? Basically impossible. This bottle also keeps your water cold up to 12 hours!

Asobu 8oz Skinny Glitter Water Bottle ($20.00)—Buy Now

PMD Rose Quartz Water Bottle

Rockin' rocks in our water bottles feels very glam, so this rose quartz-infused water bottle is sure to bring some heart energy into your day!

PMD Rose Quartz Water Bottle ($69.00)—Buy Now

Stanley 40oz Stainless Steel Adventure Quencher Tumbler

You can't scroll Instagram without seeing a Stanley tumbler! There's a good reason for all the hype, though. It's dishwasher safe, cup-holder friendly, and it'll keep that water of yours cold for up to 2 days

Stanley 40oz Stainless Steel Adventure Quencher Tumbler ($40.00)—Buy Now

Hydrin 2-Liter Water Bottle with Storage Sleeve

Convenience is key with the Hydrin water bottle! This one comes with a carrier that not only totes your bottle, but can hold your phone, keys, cards, and more.

Hydrin 2-Liter Water Bottle with Storage Sleeve ($32.14)—Buy Now

SpiritBrothers Glass Crystal Water Bottle

This gorg bottle comes with your choice of crystal point, and you can purchase more than one crystal and change them out with the same water bottle!

SpiritBrothers Glass Crystal Water Bottle ($28.02)—Buy Now

W&P Design Charcoal Terrazzo Porter Water Bottle

We're really into this play on classic terrazzo print! 

W&P Design Charcoal Terrazzo Porter Water Bottle ($30.00)—Buy Now

BrüMate Rehydration 25oz Insulated Water Bottle with Straw

BrüMate is one of the originals, so you know you're getting a leakproof, ultra-cold, super-easy water bottle no matter which of the many colors you choose!

BrüMate Rehydration 25oz Insulated Water Bottle with Straw ($33.99)—Buy Now

POPFLEX by Blogilates Diamond Sky 64oz Water Bottle

This is just one of the cute prints that these POPFLEX bottles come in. 64oz of sweat-proof sipping (that's cold for up to 40 hours!)? We're here for it!

POPFLEX by Blogilates Diamond Sky 64oz Water Bottle ($48.00)—Buy Now

2.2L Water Jug with Storage Sleeve

If you're a minimalist or hate carrying around a purse, this is the bottle for you! All your necessities in one place!

2.2L Water Jug with Storage Sleeve ($26.99)—Buy Now

bkr Big Smooth Dream 32oz Glass Water Bottle

As they say, bkr is the "t-shirt of water bottles"! Why? It's soft, comfortable, easy to care for, and will become one of your absolute favorites!

bkr Big Smooth Dream 32oz Glass Water Bottle ($48.00)—Buy Now

Corkcicle Insulated Canteen 40oz Bottle

Triple-insulated and designed to fit into your hand easily, the Corkcicle Canteen even has a silicon bottom to prevent spills!

Corkcicle Insulated Canteen 40oz Bottle ($44.95)—Buy Now

Brita 20oz Filtering Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Bring the filter with you wherever you go! The Brita bottle allows you to purify water whenever you need to, plus the filter is replaceable so you won't have to worry about buying another bottle.

Brita 20oz Filtering Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($31.99)—Buy Now

Drinkfinity 20oz Water Bottle

The ergonomically designed style of this bottle keeps it easy to hold, plus it looks super cool!

Drinkfinity 20oz Water Bottle ($29.99)—Buy Now

bübi 22oz Freezable Bottle

The bübi is dishwasher-safe and temperature-stable, but beyond that, it's collapsible! It easily rolls up for storage, too.

bübi 22oz Freezable Bottle ($27.49)—Buy Now

2-in-1 Secret Bottle

The 18oz bottle's lid doubles as a 10oz compartment so you can carry 2 drinks at once! Coffee and water? Done and done!

2-in-1 Secret Bottle ($69.00)—Buy Now

Phil the Bottle

Not only is this baby flat and holds the same amount of water as a bottle, but that's not the real draw! Each 500ml bottle features an extensive list of metropolitan water fountains for refills. Choose from 4 locations for an analog app experience: New York, Washington D.C., Boston, or Anywhere!

Phil the Bottle ($9.99-$14.99)—Buy Now

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers. 

Sponsored by Creative Roots

There are so many things to love about summer: the warm weather, the longer days, the slowed-down attitude, and all of the extra time for activities. Whether your family is getting creative, planning something active or wanting to relax by the beach, the summer heat makes it even more important to stay hydrated. Did you know that according to the American Journal of Public Health, 1 in 2 kids is underhyrated*?

Creative Roots is a flavored coconut water beverage that makes it much easier to help keep kids hydrated, thanks to the delicious fruit flavors that your littles will love to sip.

See what activities these moms are looking forward to this summer, and why Creative Roots is with them along the way:

Courtney Williams

When Texas-based mom Courtney Williams is looking to spend some one-on-one time with her oldest daughter, they like to check out the trails at their local park. Creative Roots is a win-win for the duo’s hikes since Courtney loves that it has one gram of sugar and Carri loves the delicious flavors.

Patricia Chang

Patricia Chang is using the summer to spend time outside in her garden with her son, Chase. To help beat the heat and avoid underhydration, Patricia gives Chase Creative Roots to sip on. With four flavors to pick from (Orange Pineapple, Mixed Berry, Peach Mango and Watermelon Lemonade), Chase is always excited to try new options!

 

 

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Porsha Carr

It wouldn’t be summer without countless trips to the park! Porsha’s daughter Ivy loves the Creative Roots quirky Sploots characters and is always excited for Creative Roots to accompany her on outdoor adventures.

Momma Mandy Blog

For Florida mom Mandy Cox, summer means sunshine, tan lines and tons of time by the pool. Creative Roots is the perfect waterside treat to help her kids stay happy and hydrated!

Veena Goel Crownholm

Crafty momma Veena Goel Crownholm spends her summertime doing hands-on activities, like these fun kindness rocks that she and her son spread throughout their neighborhood. Creative Roots helps her family stay hydrated while powering creativity.

 

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Faust Island

Living near the South Carolina coast, mom of three Amber Faust spends most of her summer days at the beach. When she’s packing her cooler, Creative Roots is her go-to option, thanks to one gram of sugar per bottle.

 

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Mom Crush Monday

Eight-year-old Honor and her mom Destiney Green are always on the go, whether it’s dance class, a bike ride, or a fun spa day. With resealable bottles, Creative Roots is easy to toss in Honor’s bag on her way out the door.

*Erica L. Kenney, Michael W. Long, Angie L. Cradock, and Steven L. Gortmaker, 2015:
Prevalence of Inadequate Hydration Among US Children and Disparities by Gender and Race/Ethnicity: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2012
American Journal of Public Health 105, e113_e118, https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2015.302572

Sponsored by Creative Roots

 

Between trips to the playground, games in the backyard, fun crafting and maybe even a little gardening, summertime is filled with exciting times for kids to be creative. While kids are out exploring, it’s important for them to stay hydrated—especially in the summer heat. But, as any parent knows, kids can be a little forgetful, especially when it comes to hydration.

One way to help them remember to hydrate: Give them something that’s delicious and helps keep them hydrated! Creative Roots is a plant-powered coconut water beverage that comes in flavors that kids love. With one gram of sugar, it’s a solution that both you and your kids can get on board with! Keep reading to see how seven moms are using Creative Roots to help their families stay hydrated and power their family fun this summer:

Courtney Williams

When summer rolls around for Houston-based mom Courtney Williams, all routines go out the door! To help her kids stay active, the Williams family heads to a nearby trail and packs Creative Roots to help stay hydrated. Courtney’s daughter loves the delicious flavors (Watermelon Lemonade, Peach Mango, Mixed Berry, and Orange Pineapple!) and Courtney loves that Creative Roots has one gram of sugar. 

 

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A post shared by @momcrushmonday

Mom Crush Monday

Destiney and her daughter Honor are always on the go, whether it’s to dance or a quick trip for a mini spa day. Living at a higher altitude in Utah, hydration is key! Did you know that according to the American Journal of Public Health, 1 in 2 kids is under-hydrated?* Destiney keeps Creative Roots on hand, knowing that it’s a drink Honor loves to sip on.

Patricia Chang

One of Patricia Chang’s favorite ways to spend quality time with her son Chase is in the kitchen, teaching him how to cook! As they bond over fresh veggies in the kitchen, Patricia helps Chase stay hydrated with plant-powered coconut water beverage Creative Roots

 

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Porsha Carr

Porsha Carr’s daughter, Ivy, likes to share her creativity through drawing. Ivy isn’t just a fan of the Creative Roots flavors—she also loves the quirky Sploots characters who remind kids about hydration, including Coco-Nutty, Blackberry and Mango! Creative Roots is perfect for sipping while she masters her artwork this summer. 

Momma Mandy Blog

Between lacrosse, basketball, and trips at the beach, Florida-based mom Mandy Cox’s family has a jam-packed schedule. When they’re heading out of the house, Mandy’s kids grab a bottle of Creative Roots to help them stay hydrated during outdoor activities. The 8.5 oz bottles are the perfect size for bringing on adventures. 


Veena Goel Crownholm

Crafty momma Veena Goel Crownholm inspires her son to get creative with DIY projects, like a tic-tac-toe board made out of supplies found in her yard! With a taste kids love, Creative Roots makes it easy for Veena to help her son stay hydrated and fuel his creativity—so she can focus on coming up with their next project!

 

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Faust Island

As Amber Faust and her family are settling into a new home, they’re also spending a lot of time working on their garden. Amber’s two sons love to learn about growing food, and thanks to plant-powered ingredients, Creative Roots is the perfect pairing for a day in the garden!

 

*Erica L. Kenney, Michael W. Long, Angie L. Cradock, and Steven L. Gortmaker, 2015:
Prevalence of Inadequate Hydration Among US Children and Disparities by Gender and Race/Ethnicity: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2012
American Journal of Public Health 105, e113_e118, https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2015.302572

Long, lazy summer days spent outside are the best. But babies’ tiny bodies and sensitive skin need careful consideration. Here are the top sun-safety rules to live by this summer, to keep your baby comfortable, covered up and well hydrated.

photo: Weefarers

1. Baby sunglasses! Not only are baby sunglasses all kinds of adorable, they provide important protection against the sun’s harsh rays. If your little one likes to fling them off, try sunglasses with a band or strap to keep them on securely. We love Weefarers sunglasses (above), which come with a removable strap and carrying pouch in two sizes (age 0-2 and 2-4) and polarized or not. All styles provide 100% UVA and 100% UVB protection.

2. Choose sun-protective swimwear. The key to keeping your baby safe in the sun is sun-protective clothing. Look for swimwear that has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 30 or higher for the best protection. One-piece, full-coverage suits and rash guards cover more skin, which means less time struggling with applying sunscreen to a wriggly baby.

3. Dress in light layers. Look for breathable fabrics, like cotton, which soaks up sweat and can help keep baby cool. And dress kids in layers, covering as much of their skin as is comfortable. You can remove any excess clothing when you’re in the shade.

photo: iStock

4. Apply, and reapply, sunscreen. Check out our favorite sunscreen for babies, and reapply after contact with water, or approximately every two hours if you’ll be outside longer than that. Pro tip: Set your phone’s alarm to remind you when it’s time for more sunscreen. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants 6 months and younger shouldn’t wear sunscreen, so keep the little ones in the shade and in sun-protective clothing instead.

5. Pop on a wide-brimmed bucket hat, preferably with a chin strap. Baby hats are important for all kids, especially little baldies. The wider the brim, the better. Also, look for a hat that’s made of a lightweight material that will dry quickly and offers UV protection. A chin strap is extra helpful to hold hats in place, but avoid the ones with a one-piece strap, due to safety concerns over it being a strangulation hazard. Instead, get one with a two-piece strap that attaches in the center with a clip or velcro.

6. Limit time in the sun during the hottest part of the day. The sun’s rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. And since that’s pretty much most of the day, it can be hard to stay indoors the entire time. But if you can squeeze in a nap or some shade during this time frame, it helps to keep your little ones out of the sun at the time when it can be most dangerous.

7. Expand your shade options. A big sunshade on your stroller or a shady spot under an umbrella or tree can keep babies comfortable. But to protect the whole family, we love ShelterLogic’s pop-up canopies. They provide shade for 6-7 people, with ample room for playing.

photo: Veer

8. Consider a pop-up play yard. These little tents are great for the beach, park picnics, backyard fun and camping. They do the double duty of keeping your baby out of the sun and also providing a cool place for a nap, nursing or a quick diaper change. We love the Veer Basecamp (above) for its ease of use and UPF50 protection. Here are more of our favorite play yards.

9. Keep them hydrated. Keep your babes topped up with breastmilk, formula or water (if they’re old enough) to avoid dehydration. Fresh fruit makes a hydrating snack. 

10. Keep your summer bag packed. Stay ready for adventure by choosing a summer bag and keeping it mostly packed, with a change of clothes, sun hat, sunscreen and packaged snacks so you just have to add a few items to get you on your way.

—Heather Dixon

 

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From the moment they learn how to shake their little Huggies-covered booty, kids will find any excuse to dance. But throw some flashing lights and apple-juice libations into the mix? You’ve got the hottest kiddies dance club on the block. Scroll down to find out how to create that VIP club vibe at home.

CirKiz, A Cool Kid's Dance Party
Photo: CirKiz

1.Break out ALL OF THE LIGHTS. Flashing bicycle lights, leftover glow sticks from Halloween, a string of Christmas lights—all that matters is that the daytime lights are switched off, and the party lights come ON. Make sure to draw the shades!

2. The ultimate playlist. Nothing kills the vibe like a stint of silence while you search for the next song. Make sure you have at least ten songs qued up and ready. Take a few requests before hand or just hit play on our ultimate playlist.

3.Let ’em dress themselves. Picking out that “going out” outfit is a rite of passage. Let them go nuts with the wardrobe, including accessories!

4. The Guestlist. Have your kiddos help you create a flyer for the party of the century. Have them hand it out to friends they want to cut a rug with.

5. Stock the bar. From apple juice topped with tiny tropical umbrellas to ginger ale with slices of orange, make sure there are a few specialty libations to keep them hydrated through the dance marathon.

6. Show your stamp. They may not get the reference, but it’s a scientific fact that littles love stamps. So give ’em a hand stamp as they enter the club. No ins and outs!

7. Play DJ. keep things interesting by helping to run the show. As the, um, seasoned club-goer, lead dance challenges (“everyone do the worm!”), call-and-response chants and host dance offs between dueling crews.

8. Bubbles, steam and smoke. Get your hands on a bubble gun or steam machine to take the party to 11.

9. Set up a photo booth. So much better than selfies! Set up a well-lit corner where kids can get silly with their buds (goofy costumes are a great addition) and snap a pic to remember this party forever!

10. Lounge lizards. Create a few cozy lounge areas where the kids can take a breather, sip their spritzer or chat up that cutie they met out on the dance floor.

—Erin Feher

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We’ve all been missing the magic of Disney theme parks, but thanks to Shop Disney, we don’t have to go completely without. The online shop has just released hundred of formerly park-exclusive merchandise that you can shop right now! From whimsical home decor and character-themed handbags to must-have wardrobe picks, there’s a little something for everyone to hold us over until the park reopen.

Drinkware

Stock up on classic Mickey mugs, The Mandalorian travel tumblers, metal water bottles, retro glass sets and plastic tumblers to stay hydrated. In addition to traditional design options, you'll also be ale to shop cruise line, Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney styles!

Apparel

There's plenty of ways to outfit yourself for a day at the theme parks when you Shop Disney! The site is loaded with tons of Star Wars, Pixar, Marvel and Disney apparel items that include kids and adult styles for shirts, sweatpants, socks, tanks, dresses. shorts, sweatshirts and more!

Bed & Bath

Cozy on up with home items like fleece blankets, beach towels, baby plush blankies, and even beauty products! Shop Disney is offering lots of summer worthy items that include exclusive body products from Disney cruises.

Home Decor

We're all spending more time at home these days, which means its the perfect time to infuse a little magic into your decor. Start with an adorable trinket box, Mary Poppins tea towel set, deluxe prints, and TONS of Christmas ornaments.

Bags & Wallets

Carry a piece of magic with you with exclusive park designed bags and wallets. Check out Dooney & Bourke, Loungefly backpacks, Vera Bradley hipster bags, hip packs and novelty "VHS clutch" purses.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Shop Disney

 

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This post is sponsored by MyBite Vitamins, whose mission is to help your body, mind and taste buds feel healthy and happy.

As a busy mom, you probably can’t escape to a remote island vacation for self-care. But you can integrate healthy habits like eating foods with vitamin C, getting enough exercise and even trying essential oils. We’ve put together a list of simple ways you can keep yourself healthy and, hopefully, even find your own slice of paradise every day. Read on to see them all.

1. Exercise. Even if an hour-long cardio workout isn’t your jam, a 20-minute weights session, a walk with a fellow mom, or some jumping jacks while watching Netflix are all ways to squeeze in time to exercise daily for better all-around health. Check out these easy fitness hacks that busy moms swear by.

2. Get your daily dose of vitamin C. We all know moms don’t have time to get sick! Try 15 of the best vitamin C recipes to stave off colds and keep you in tip-top shape.

3. Don’t forget your daily multivitamin. When it comes to picking a daily multivitamin that’s good for your body and tastes good to boot, turn to MyBite Hers, a delicious chocolatey daily multivitamin with caramel and peanuts that’s vegetarian, gluten-free and nothing artificial. Inside each bite are essential vitamins and nutrients specifically geared towards women, including B vitamins for metabolism support and vitamin D to help keep your bones and teeth strong. Buy yours here.

4. Stay SuperMom by eating superfoods. Eat foods that pack a nutrient-rich punch by including them in everything from smoothies to desserts. These recipes boast superfood ingredients you can serve up daily.

5. Eat healthy snacks to keep up your energy. You tote nibbles all day long for your kids … so toss some healthy snacks in your bag for yourself too––to stave off hunger pangs and a case of the grumpies all around!

6. Meditate/spend time alone. You don’t need a mountaintop or a serene beach … just a quiet space for even one to five minutes is all it takes to check your inner state of being and hit the reset button. Read our meditation guide to get started.

7. Make time for self-care. Moms tend to lose themselves in raising kids and family obligations. Try to carve out even a few minutes each day to do something you enjoy––get a pedicure or frozen yogurt, write in a gratitude journal, watch your favorite TV show or treat yourself to a bite of chocolatey goodness in the form of a MyBite vitamin. Their Women’s Multivitamin is a small indulgence of chocolate, caramel and peanuts you can treat yourself to every day. And with only 25 calories and 3 grams of sugar per bite, MyBite Vitamins is the perfect habit to integrate into your daily self-care routine.

8. Ditch the mom guilt. Squash the voice in your head that sometimes tells you you’re not doing a good enough job. Kiss the mom guilt goodbye—kiss and hug your kids instead. Here’s how.

9. Maintain healthy boundaries/learn to say no. If you say no to extra things you can’t or don’t want to add to your plate, the world will keep spinning. Don’t get caught in the whirlwind of “busy” by overcommitting. It’s a slippery slope that can lead to exhaustion and resentment. No mom has time for that.

10. Only say “yes” to things you really want to do. If #8 makes you wonder what you should say yes to, take into account how you feel when presented with the option. Of course, there will always be things we need to do in life that we may not be jazzed about, but when it comes to the optional stuff, go with your heart and your gut and only say yes if it makes you feel happy and invigorated doing so.

11. Make yourself a priority. Moms put everyone else’s needs first, but what if once a day you took your own needs into account? Don’t know where to start? Here are 51 ways to make yourself a priority.

photo: rawpixel.com via Pexels

12. Feed your mind & nourish your soul by listening to podcasts. Listen up … while you’re cleaning the house, walking the dog or sitting in the carpool lane––the value of a good podcast cannot be underestimated. You can find a podcast that speaks to you on nearly any topic. Listening to podcasts together is also a great way to keep kiddos sane on longer car trips.

13. Limit or ditch social media. Theodore Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Social media tends to make everyone else’s lives look perfect. Consider greatly limiting or ditching social media altogether (even as a week-long trial) to see if your happiness improves because you’re not playing the comparison mind game. The time you’ll save not looking at your phone can be used to do something else on this list!

14. Practice gratitude. Gratitude is a practice that when done daily becomes a habit. Oprah says there’s “no joy without gratitude.” Here are ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily life.

15. Don’t yell at your kids. Aside from the fact that it makes you feel lousy, yelling doesn’t even work and studies say it makes you look weak. So save your sanity, and spare yourself the headache by taking a different approach to getting your point across.

photo: rawpixel.com via Pexels

16. Laugh. Did you know that laughing reduces stress hormones and even burns calories? Find a reason (or many reasons) to share a big belly laugh with your friends, family, kids or even laugh alone at your favorite comedian or sitcom.

17. Stop trying to do it all. It may seem hard to believe your kids are no longer as dependent on you, but outsourcing chores to them and teaching them to do many things themselves will not only lighten your load, it will help them become more responsible and self-efficient.

18. Streamline your inner circle/support system. Friends and family should be non-toxic sources of support. If your inner circle includes people who judge, belittle or misguide you, it’s time to reconsider whose energy you let into your life.

photo: Matthew Henry via Burst

19. Stay hydrated throughout the day. Cheers to you! It sounds basic, but it’s vital to stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and a host of other health issues. Start your day with an immunity-boosting drink like this wellness tea, and carry a full water bottle with you throughout the day so you drink plenty of fluids. This is such an easy habit to implement, and it will make a world of difference.

20. Diffuse and use essential oils. Breathe it in, mama. It’s nearly effortless to incorporate essential oils into your daily routine. Essential oils can aid in relieving everything from a headache to a bad mood. Diffuse essential oils in your home or take a soak in an essential oil bath. You’ll find an oil for nearly every purpose and to relieve a multitude of ailments. They are truly a wonderful addition to everyday life.

21. Put the kids to bed earlier for better health. This is a win-win! Kids who get more sleep AND their moms are healthier thanks to an earlier bedtime. Finish those night-night stories and those last drinks of water so you get some much-deserved R&R once the littles are tucked in.

—Beth Shea

Feature photo courtesy Pexels

 

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With over a year left until the third installment of Fantastic Beasts hits theaters, we are in need for a fresh stash of Harry Potter goodies. Luckily, Williams Sonoma is constantly updating its collection!  Here are a some of our favorite exclusive magical finds.

Harry Potter Cookie Baking Set

Williams Sonoma

The 26-piece set includes eight stainless steel cookie cutters, 12 icing bags, one storage box, four decorating tips and a plastic coupler--everything you need to make sweet Hogwarts treats.

$24.95

Harry Potter Silicone Spatula

Williams Sonoma

Whip up pancakes or a batch of cookies with these exclusive silicone spatula.

$14.95

House Crest Cookie Cutters

Williams Sonoma

Root on your favorite house with some tasty cookies.

$16.95

Hydration Water Bottle

Williams Sonoma

Stay hydrated and show off your Hogwarts school spirit with these water bottles.

$29.95

Harry Potter Pancake Molds

Williams Sonoma

Bring the magic to the breakfast table with these whimsical molds that will produce pancakes shaped like the Sorting Hat and Harry’s glasses.

Hedwig Cookie Jar

Williams Sonoma

Count on Hedwig to keep watch over those House Crest Cookies. 

$69.95

Harry Potter Chocolate Wand

Williams Sonoma

The only downside to this edible wand is that the magic will disappear once you’ve gobbled it up, but it’s totally worth it. 

$11.99

—Karly Wood & Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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Being pregnant and giving birth are two of the biggest changes a woman’s body can go through. If you’re a new mum, you’re going to need some time to get adjusted to the new lifest‌yle, no matter how fit you used to be. Your world is changing, and while you’re learning to take care of the baby, you also have to learn to take care of yourself. Staying healthy should be your priority, even though it seems that the baby should come before everything and anything else. When you start doubting prioritizing your health, remember that a happy and healthy mother means having a happy and healthy baby.

1. Pay attention to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a healthy and natural process, but it doesn’t mean you can be careless about it. What you eat affects how much milk you make and how healthy you and your baby are. Even though you don’t have to follow any kind of special diet for breastfeeding, you should avoid certain things. Traces of what you eat can be found in your milk, meaning that they’ll definitely reach your baby’s tummy.

Keep track of what you eat, then see if your baby has any sort of reaction to your milk. If they’re not putting on weight, has digestion problems, it might be that they’re having an allergic reaction to whatever is in your milk. Thus, by paying attention to your own diet and staying healthy, you’re also directly making sure your baby stays healthy too.

2. Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is important on a regular basis, but becomes a must when you’re a new mum. Water does wonders for our bodies, as it helps our inner organs function optimally, gives us more energy, and even clears our skin. Drinking plenty of water can help your body heal faster and will definitely make you feel more like yourself again.

Whatever you do, stay away from sugary drinks. Sodas might be tasty, but they don’t do you any good. All you’re doing is ingesting sugar you really don’t need right now. If you’re used to drinking soda and just can’t stand the blandness of water, try taking it one step at a time. For example, you can infuse your water with some mint or lemon. This way, you’re making the drink tastier while also giving yourself an extra boost of energy,

3. Exercise (lightly). Even though exercise might be the last thing on your mind right now, it can be extremely beneficial for your health. By exercising lightly, you’re teaching your muscles to work again and you’re gradually building up your strength. It’s going to be hard in the beginning, but just sitting around will make things even harder. For example, a daily walk with your baby will do you a world of good.

As your body heals, you can even move on to home workouts. In fact, there are a ton of mummy and baby exercises that you can try. This way, you’ll be bonding with your little one while also doing something good for yourself. Even though they won’t really understand what’s happening, they’ll know they’re having fun with their mum. When you’re ready, you could even join a mummy exercise group or start going to the gym. Even just yoga or pilates could be exactly what your body needs to recover.

4. Focus on your diet. The best way to rebuild strength and stay healthy is to focus on your diet. You’re going to need to eat a lot of healthy things now that your body is recovering. Vegetables and lean meats should make up most of your diet.

The biggest problem with any type of whole-food diet is that it requires a lot of prep and cooking time that you simply don’t have. In fact, that’s the main reason most new mums give up on their new diet entirely. Instead of stressing yourself out and putting pressure on yourself because of your diet, try looking into alternatives. For example, having healthy meals delivered to your address could be the perfect solution. You wouldn’t have to put in the work, but you’d still get the diet your body deserves to be healthy and strong.

5. Get some sleep. Regardless of whether you want to hear it or not, you need more sleep. It seems that it’s impossible to get some quality shuteye when the baby is still small, but you need to figure out a way where you can actually get some rest. Not only is your body exhausted from giving birth, but you also have to keep getting up at night to breastfeed.

One way to ensure you can catch some z’s is to build a routine for your baby. Teach your baby that naptime as at a certain hour each day. Soon enough, they’ll fall asleep by themselves at that hour and you’ll get to nap, too. One other idea is to have Dad or someone else close to you spend some quality time with the baby while you lay down and get some rest. Being away from the baby for an hour or two isn’t going to harm either of you, but will do wonders for your health.

As you can see, you’re going to have to do a lot to get into your new routine. Living a healthier lifestyle isn’t a decision you make once. It’s something you have to decide every day, multiple times. There’s no doubt that you’re going to have some ups and downs while trying to fit your health along with everything else in your new life, but with willpower, motivation, good organizational skills, and hard work- nothing is impossible.

 

Lena Hemsworth is a lifest‌yle blogger,  foodie, and lover of a good book.  She's also an everlasting enthusiast who believes that there is nothing better than starting your day with a hot cup of coffee.   

14 Essential Tips for Moms Pumping at Work

However you choose to feed baby—nursing, formula or a combo of both—returning to work after having a baby is no easy feat. And, breastfeeding moms who plan to pump at work encounter a unique set of challenges. Turn your anxiety into confidence with our best tips and tricks for pumping moms returning to work. Many of our staff pumped when returning to the office and we’re dishing insider know-how from moms who have been there, done that. You got this, mama!

1. Fight for Your Rights
Fight for your rights to have a private place to pump. In fact, it’s federal law for employers to provide employees with reasonable break time and a place to pump that isn’t a bathroom. Read more about the federal law here and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself to your employer.

photo: unsplash

2. Make It a Priority
Block off time on your calendar to pump and treat it like an important meeting. Be upfront with your colleagues that this 30-minute window cannot be interrupted or moved. If you’re nervous talking to your non-parent colleagues about pumping, think of it as you educating them about returning to work as a nursing mom and be proud that you’re normalizing breastfeeding and pumping.

3. Choose a Pump That’s Convenient, Comfortable & Effective
The Luna Breast Pump from Motif Medical is built for modern moms who want a pump that maximizes output, has a quiet motor and is covered by insurance. The Luna boasts hospital-strength suction with moms reporting that using the Luna means pumping more milk in less time. Other features include a backlit LCD screen for those late-night sessions, a night light, quiet motor and auto shut off. Learn more at motifmedical.com, buy it on Amazon or use their insurance lookup tool to check your insurance coverage now.

4. Keep It Consistent
Pump every time your child would nurse so generally 3 times a day, depending on your baby’s age and how often she eats. As always, defer to your pediatrician for feeding amounts and schedules.

5. Extra, Extra!
If possible, keep an extra pump, pump parts and pumping bra at work so you don’t have to haul everything back and forth from home to work every day.


Photo: ExplorerBob from Pixabay

6. Stay Hydrated
Most breastfeeding moms will tell you that staying hydrated is essential to keeping your supply up. Keep a big bottle of water at your desk and bring it into the pumping room with you. Forget to drink during the day? Some moms swear by water bottles like this one that reminds you of your intake by the hour.

Pro tip: our editor loves this water bottle for its convenience—you can use it one handed!

photo: Stacy Spensley via flickr

7. Eat Well
Pumping requires calories and keeping up a good supply requires that mama stays nourished. For eight snack ideas that require only one hand to eat, check out this post.

8. Bring Baby with You
Ok, you may not be bringing baby with you to the office, but how about the next best thing? Load up your phone with videos and photos of your little one to help you relax and “let down.” Some moms even watch a video of their baby crying or have a small item of clothing like a hat or shirt that smells like their child.

9. Stay Distracted
Our editors have said that the worst thing you can do is stare at the pumping bottle as it fills (or does not) fill up. Keep yourself relaxed and distracted by queueing up your favorite podcast to take your mind off the task at hand. If you’re nervous that you’re losing out on work time, some moms like to bring their computer in the room to write emails or surf the web while you do it.

Pro tip: one lactation consultant swears by this hack that covers the bottle when you pump.

10. Minimize Cleaning
Pump directly into storage freezer bags. If you’re not sure if your pump allows for that, check Amazon for adaptors. Our editors also suggest storing your pump parts in a ziploc bag and placing in the fridge. Wash everything at the end of the day. If you would rather sanitize every time, some moms like to clean the pump parts with a steam bag after every pump.

photo: Vertie via Pixabay

11. Label It
Bring a sharpie you can label milk with the date and number of ounces. Our Editorial Director used strips of painter’s tape, which she could easily peel off her reusable containers.

12. Transport in Style
Make sure you have a small cooler bag to carry pumped milk back home in. We love these PackIt freezable lunch bags—the freezer gel is built into the lunch bag so you don’t have to worry about transporting gel packs to and from work. Plus, baby can use this lunch bag when he gets to school age.

13. Ask for Help
We can’t tell you how many times our editor has sent her BFF texts in the middle of the night asking everything under the sun about pumping. If you don’t have a tribe to ask questions to, good news: there are plenty of online groups and websites you can turn to for help. From La Leche League to moms Facebook groups to local lactation consultants (ask your doctor for a referral), find the educational tips you need.

14. You’re a Boss
Remember that you can’t do it all and don’t feel guilty about being away from your kid, pumping not as much milk as you had hoped for or blocking off your calendar multiple times in a day to pump. Just take it one day at a time and know thousands of moms experience and feel what you’re going through right now. You’re not alone and you rock!

Have any more tips to add? Send them our way to editor AT tinybeans.go-vip.net.

—Erin Lem, Amber Guetebier and Jennifer Silverstein

 

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