What Happens When an Herbalist Takes on Bug Spray?

A Jungle-Born Mist That Smells Like a Spa

Let’s be real—most bug sprays are either filled with chemicals you’d rather not put on your skin, or they leave you smelling like a citronella candle you didn’t ask for. But this summer, there’s a better way to stay bite-free.

Botánica Bug Spray from Anima Mundi is what happens when an herbalist—with roots deep in the Costa Rican jungle—decides to create something beautiful, grounding, and actually effective. Developed by founder and herbalist Adriana Ayales, this mist is finally available in the U.S., just in time for summer hikes, garden hangs, and moonlit beach walks.

No DEET. No drama. Just a ritual-worthy blend of essential oils and plant medicine designed to support your connection to nature—without getting eaten alive.

We sat down with Adriana to talk about what inspired the formula, how her tropical upbringing shaped the blend, and why this spray is so much more than just insect protection.

Q&A with Adriana Ayales, Herbalist + Founder of Anima Mundi

What inspired the creation of your botanical bug spray—and how did Costa Rica influence it?
Being from the tropics, I’ve dealt with every kind of bug and life form possible! Navigating this is honestly a lifestyle. On the days you eat a little extra sugar, you know you become a magnet. And on those days when bugs are just particularly active, you know to be extra protective. From shaking out shoes for scorpions, to closing the screens after a certain time of day, or watching the beach at sunset… you’ve got to follow the procedures depending on the time/place of day!

I’ve always made a blend that includes several different kinds of oils (beyond the infamous citronella!) to be sure to repel all kinds of bugs—not just mosquitoes. For example, peppermint is just as vital as citronella, as it also helps deter aphids, fleas, ants, beetles, gnats, spiders, and horseflies. Another key oil in our blend is geranium, which also helps repel ticks and gnats. And then there’s lavender and lemongrass, which are great for preventing fleas, slugs, stink bugs, and all the others!

Can you walk us through the plants you chose and why—especially how each one supports both the body and the spirit?
Citronella and lemongrass are sharp and clarifying—trusted allies in the tropics where the insect world thrives. Their citrus notes cleanse and repel, kicking off the majority of possible mosquitoes, bugs, fleas, insects and everything in between! That goes for the spirit as well—it uplifts the energy while setting strong and grounded boundaries.

Rose geranium is a flower of wild beauty, long used in folk medicine to repel pests. It also supports emotional balance and the radiance of the skin. Lavender brings a cooling softness—easing heat, tension, and irritation, while calming both the surface and the subtle body. Cypress clears what’s heavy, helping to move stagnant energy and fortify the edges of the auric field. Together, these plants form a protective circle—one that honors the body’s harmony with the natural world.

So many people associate bug spray with chemicals or strong scents—what makes this formula different, both energetically and in terms of skin health?
So many bug sprays are loaded with synthetic chemicals and overwhelming scents. Have you ever been caught on the wrong side of someone spraying themselves down? It's certainly a chemical whiplash that lingers for a while. And there’s no need to use something so abrasive, toxic, and unsustainable.

Essential oils in good carrier oils that actually support your skin are the way to go. I’ve been deep in the jungle using our blend, and nothing landed on me—even after long hours of hiking. Our Bug Spray is gentle enough for daily use and unique in that it works both as a preventative and as post-bite care, calming the skin and supporting its natural balance. Energetically, it offers a plant-powered boundary that protects without disrupting your connection to the natural world.

What Sets It Apart

Most bug sprays feel like something you have to use. This one feels like something you want to. With a clean, grounding scent and a light, skin-friendly texture, Botánica blends the practicality of real protection with the care of plant-based skincare. It's a thoughtful formula rooted in herbal wisdom—offering a way to stay connected to nature, not covered up from it.

Shop the Botánica Bug Spray here.

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Tower 28’s Friends & Family Sale Is Here—Here’s What to Grab While You Can

Some of the links in this story are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you choose to purchase—helping us continue to share mindful, inspiring content.

Affordable, sensitive skin-friendly beauty brand Tower 28 is kicking off its annual Friends & Family Sale from 6/26 - 6/29—no code needed. That includes fan-favorite formulas like the Swipe Serum Concealer and SOS Rescue Spray, both of which have earned cult status among beauty editors and celebrities alike. (Hailey Bieber’s a fan.)

We recently caught up with Tower 28 founder Amy Liu in our Living Well series to talk about how she created a space for people with sensitive skin to feel seen—and celebrated. This sale is the perfect time to explore the brand’s most iconic launches and discover why it’s become such a staple in the clean beauty world.

Below, a few editor-approved picks to grab before the sale ends...

SOS Rescue Spray

This multitasking mist is powered by hypochlorous acid to calm irritation, fight acne-causing bacteria, and strengthen the skin barrier—without clogging pores. A bottle sells every 11 seconds globally, and it’s earned a spot in Hailey Bieber’s skincare routine.
Why We Love It: It’s like a reset button for your skin—especially when you’re dealing with inflammation, maskne, or irritation from travel or stress. Shop Here

MakeWaves Mascara

A sensitive-eye-friendly, vegan mascara that lengthens, lifts, and defines lashes with zero flaking, clumping, or crunchiness. Comes in Jet (black) and Drift (soft brown) for your preferred finish.

In a recent Vogue “In The Bag” video, actress Keke Palmer gave fans a peek inside her daily essentials—and right at the top of her list was Tower 28’s MakeWaves Mascara.” While she admits to wearing falsies in the clip, she made it clear the real magic happens on her natural lashes: “When I put this on my real lashes… oh girl, you would think I was on Latisse.”

Why We Love It: The buildable, weightless formula means you can go from barely-there to bold without ever irritating your eyes—or scrubbing at night to take it off. Shop Here

Swipe Serum Concealer

A hydrating concealer with a serum-like texture and medium-buildable coverage that melts into the skin. It’s non-comedogenic, safe for sensitive skin, and happens to be the #1 trafficked concealer on Sephora.com. Worn by Nicole Richie, Kate Hudson, and Meghann Fahy.
Why We Love It: It’s basically skincare in disguise—giving you glow, coverage, and comfort in one effortless swipe. Shop Here

GetSet Blur + Set Matte Powder Blush
A blush and setting powder in one. This clean, talc-free formula controls shine, blurs imperfections, and delivers richly pigmented color—all while being safe for eczema-prone and sensitive skin. Available in 6 dreamy shades inspired by LA neighborhoods.
Why We Love It: It’s one of the few matte blushes that doesn’t dull your glow—just keeps oil in check while adding color that actually lasts. Shop Here

BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
This multitasking cream blush is a TikTok icon—and for good reason. Available in vibrant, beachy shades, it melts seamlessly into skin and lips with a dewy finish that looks like a post-vacation flush. The creamy formula is buildable, blendable, and made without fragrance or pore-clogging ingredients.
Why We Love It: It gives that effortless, California-girl glow with just your fingers—no brushes, no fuss. And it layers beautifully with the new GetSet powder for extra staying power. Shop Here

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How Your Gut Health Could Be Impacting Your Fertility (And What to Do About It) Why it works:

After healing her own cycle through acupuncture and Ayurveda, Michelle Oravitz made it her mission to help other women do the same. Now a licensed acupuncturist and fertility coach, she blends Eastern medicine and modern insight to support women on their fertility journeys. In this article, she explores the powerful connection between gut health and reproductive wellbeing—and why healing the gut may be the missing link for many.

The fertility-gut connection you didn’t know you needed.

Did you know that approximately 70% of your immune system resides in your gut? And that your gut health can impact your chances of conception?

When it comes to gut health, most people may not realize that it doesn’t just impact digestion and that it is the center to so many other processes in the body which include conception, immune regulation, and even a person’s emotional state. 

Unfortunately, we are living at a time where we are exposed to food ingredients, environmental toxins, and stress levels that can impact our gut health in ways we’ve never seen before. We are also more removed from nature than ever before, which is one of the ways our bodies regulate its microbiome from the soil and other ways. 

Why Gut Health Needs to Be a Priority When it Comes to Fertility Health

Most people who are trying to conceive may overlook the importance of their gut health since it doesn’t seem to play a direct role on reproductive health. However, once they begin seeing alternative practitioners, they often learn that gut health can impact so many processes in the body like hormonal balance, nutrition absorption, and that many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions can be addressed by healing the gut.

In Traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach are paired organs that play an important role in digestive health. Not only are they central to digestive health, but when they function optimally, they are able to extract the nutrients from food and use it to build healthy blood. In TCM, blood is central to supporting the menstrual cycle, reproductive health, and so many other processes in the body which impact a woman’s ability to conceive. 

The energy and strength of the spleen and stomach can get injured by over work, or over thinking. Similarly, conventional research shows that our mental and emotional states can directly impact our gut microbiome and gut health. A study sampled the gut mibrobiome of  Tibetan Buddhist monks along with neighboring residents and found that the long term meditating monks had significantly more enriched microbiome which is associated with enhanced immune function, less inflammation, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease along with many other benefits. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36760344/

Studies also show that gut dysbiosis, which is an imbalance in the gut microbiome, is associated with various mental and emotional disorders. These studies are just a few examples of how the body and mind interact through the gut brain axis and it also clues us into one way of improving our gut health - the mind. It also reflects what has been taught for thousands of years in TCM, that the spleen and stomach are intertwined with the way our mind functions.

Addressing the gut in order to support and resolve many conditions that lead to fertility challenges is vital. PCOS, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, and Endometriosis are just a handful of conditions that reflect and respond to gut health. Therefore, it is crucial to address one’s digestive and gut health in order to support so many other non-gut related conditions in the body.

The Role of Our Enteric Nervous System and The Vagus Nerve

Did you know that your whole digestive system (starting from your esophagus and ending in your rectum) is home to approximately 500 million neurons. It has a bidirectional relationship with your central nervous system and the communication happens via the vagus nerve, which is the longest cranial nerve in the body. 

The Vagus nerve plays a role in the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which is also referred to as rest and digest since it is an optimal nervous system state for digestion to occur. Besides impacting digestion (secretions, motility), the Vagus nerve also plays an important role in regulating heart rate, blood pressure, inflammation, emotional balance, immune response and much more.

As we can see, the Vagus nerve is just one really important asset we can use to support gut health and the great news is, there are ways in which you can stimulate the Vagus nerve in order to help balance your nervous system as well as support your gut health.

Ways to Support Your Fertility by Supporting Your Gut Health

There are many things you can do to support your gut health, and surprisingly, they aren’t complicated! Here’s a list of implementations you can start right away:

1. Eat mindfully: This includes chewing really well and making sure your saliva mixes thoroughly with your thoroughly chewed up food. Your saliva has lots of digestive enzymes that support your digestive process and allowing ample time for chewing and properly saturating your food with saliva will ease your digestive process tremendously! Eating mindfully also means looking at your food (which increases saliva) as well as sitting down and not doing other activities which can induce a sympathetic (or fight or flight) state of the nervous system. When you’re sitting down mindfully, you are also prepping your nervous system to get into an optimal “rest and digest” mode. 
2. Listen to your body’s cues after eating certain foods: We all have something called “interoception” which are sensations of communication that our bodies give us. When people get in tune with these sensations, they will notice if certain foods feel good for them or if their bodies feel off after eating them. Begin paying attention to how certain foods make your body feel, and start to eliminate foods that decrease your energy or upset your stomach. Over time, this habit will get easier and you will increase your ability to become more intuitive with your eating.
3. Consider taking a spore based probiotic: I often recommend spore based probiotics because they survive the digestive tract and activate where they are supposed to, which is in the colon. They are easy to store since they don’t need to be refrigerated, and are safe to take in conditions such as SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements to ensure that they are appropriate for your specific needs.
4. Activate your vagus nerve by doing specific practices: Ways to activate your vagus nerve is through humming, massaging your ears, cold exposure (caution if actively trying to conceive or if you tend to get cold easily), doing breathing exercises like diaphragmatic breathing, gargling, doing acupuncture, and heartmath breathing through the heart center. Activating your vagus nerve can be very beneficial for your digestive health but it can also support hormone balance as well as support good sleep and overall health.
5. Massage your abdomen often: Massaging your abdominal area is an incredibly effective practice that can support healthy blood flow to your digestive system as well as your reproductive system. It can also support calming your nervous system, which as we learned, is key to digestive health! The best part about it is that it’s free, and you can implement an easy routine that you can do every night before you fall asleep!

Your reproductive health relies on so much more than just hormones. The health of your gut can impact so many processes that impact and support conception. When your gut is not functioning optimally, it can cause a rise in inflammation, contribute to autoimmunity factors, inhibit the ability for the body to absorb nutrients, or cause hormonal imbalances to name just a few! This is why it is crucial to address the gut and investigate whether it is a hidden contributor if you are experiencing fertility challenges. You can start by finding a functional gut test provider which can be a functional doctor, acupuncturists, functional nutritionists, or naturopathic doctor. Although it can be overwhelming to go through this detective work in order to understand how to optimize your fertility health, it will ultimately lead you to a more empowered state on your journey.

Michelle Oravitz, AP, L.Ac, FABORM
Founder of The Wholesome Lotus and host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast

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The Skincare Shortlist: 5 Products Worth the Hype This Month

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If your skincare shelf is due for a refresh, start here. Our editors have been swiping, smoothing, and spritzing their way through the latest launches—and these five products rose to the top. Each one earns its place for a reason: next-level hydration, glow-boosting ingredients, or just the kind of results you can actually see.

Whether you're tackling summer skin stress or simply craving a complexion upgrade, these are the skincare heroes worth your attention this month.

5 Products Worth the Hype This Month

1. AGENT NATEUR holi (water) Crème

If you're a fan of holi (lift)—Agent Nateur's cult-fave lifting and firming serum—you'll want to make room on your shelf for the newest addition: holi (water) crème. This ultra-nourishing moisturizer takes everything we love about the brand (clinical actives + clean luxury) and wraps it into one silky, hydrating formula.

Infused with skin-brightening vitamin C (THD Ascorbate), barrier-supporting niacinamide, healing manuka honey, and Chronoglow™ to fight oxidative stress, this cream is as functional as it is indulgent. It absorbs effortlessly and leaves skin looking smoother, plumper, and more luminous—without feeling greasy or heavy.

Why we love it: It layers beautifully under makeup, calms redness, and gives skin that dewy “just had a facial” finish. Shop here

2. Typology Radiance Serum with Vitamin CLooking for instant glow without shimmer? Meet your new staple. These vitamin C-enriched glow drops are the definition of effortless radiance. We love dabbing a few drops on bare skin after skincare—or mixing them with Typology’s tinted serum for a sheer, luminous finish.

With antioxidant-rich vitamin C and soothing aloe vera, this illuminating concentrate works double-duty: it boosts brightness instantly and supports long-term glow. Think of it as your skin’s version of turning the lights up just a little.

Why we love it: It makes your skin look fresh, well-rested, and naturally radiant with (almost) zero effort. Shop here 

3. BL+ The Cream Light by Blue Lagoon SkincareThis one’s giving “clean beauty meets high-tech Icelandic spa.” Powered by the proprietary BL+ COMPLEX—harvested from Iceland’s Blue Lagoon—this featherlight cream hydrates, firms, and balances the skin while soothing signs of stress.

Despite its light texture, The Cream Light packs a serious punch: visibly refining skin texture, boosting firmness, and delivering long-lasting moisture. If you’ve ever wanted a moisturizer that feels like a breath of fresh air, this is it.

Why we love it: It keeps our skin looking plump and even-toned without any heaviness—a summer staple for humid days or layer-loving routines. Shop here

4. Ameon Glow Manifesto Ice Cubes
These cryotherapy-inspired ice cubes are more than just a cool skincare moment (though they definitely are that). Designed to de-puff, brighten, and tighten, they’re filled with skin-nourishing ingredients that help reverse signs of stress—think late nights, long flights, and life in general.

Keep them in your freezer for morning pick-me-ups or pre-event prep. Paired with gua sha or a quick facial massage, they give that just-slept-10-hours look—whether you actually did or not.

Why we love it: It’s like a mini facial in 60 seconds. Your skin looks awake, snatched, and glowy—no filter needed. Shop here.

5. Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

This multitasking mist has become a non-negotiable in our summer routine. Formulated with hypochlorous acid—a powerful yet gentle ingredient known to calm irritation and kill acne-causing bacteria—it’s the ultimate skin reset button.

We spritz it before and after workouts, over sunscreen, post-facial treatments, and even to cool down after a beach day. If redness, breakouts, or irritation tend to pop up in the summer, this is your skin’s new BFF.

Why we love it: It’s lightweight, fragrance-free, and helps keep breakouts and sensitivity at bay. Bonus: it’s dermatologist-approved and safe for all skin types. Shop here

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5 Signs Your Pelvic Floor Needs Attention – An OBGYN Explains What to Do

Most of us don’t think about our pelvic floor until something feels off—but this group of deep core muscles plays a major role in everything from bladder control and balance to posture and sexual function. “It’s like a woven basket of support for our internal organs,” says Patricia A. Wallace, M.D., a board-certified OBGYN and pelvic floor surgeon.

And yet, many women miss the early signs of dysfunction. From leaking when you sneeze to pain during intimacy, your body could be waving red flags that your pelvic floor needs help. We asked Dr. Wallace to share the 5 signs you shouldn’t ignore—and what you can do to start healing.

5 Signs You May Have a Pelvic Floor Issue or Weakness:

1. Loss of urine with activity, such as laughing, sneezing, or exercise
2. Less sensitivity, friction, grip, laxity during intimacy
3. Lower back pain
4. Poor balance or difficulty getting up from a chair or toilet
5. Pain with intercourse

How Can You address Your Pelvic Floor Concerns

1. Loss of urine with activity, such as laughing, sneezing, or exercise
30% of women will report urinary leakage with activity at 12 months following vaginal birth. This is related to the size of the birth, the length of time pushing, and the baseline fitness of the mother’s pelvic floor. It is never too early to learn about how to be strong from the inside out, especially since many women who have never been pregnant or given birth also leak urine in various activities.

Pelvic Floor physical therapy is a real thing- and these experts teach you proper breath, pelvic technique, and body mechanics when lifting or exercising. It is very difficult to body-build your pelvic muscles, so newer technology- like the Emsella high-frequency electromagnetic chair-helps to literally build those muscles without any down-time or invasive exams or treatments. It’s like doing 12,000 pelvic floor contractions in 28 minutes- which is more than we could ever do in our lifetime. 6 treatments over 3 weeks and a few sessions per year will keep you Stronger, Drier, and more Stable.

2. Less sensitivity, friction, grip, laxity during intimacy
The muscles at the opening of the vagina called the transverse perineal muscles are responsible for grip and sensation during penetration. When the soft tissue and muscles have laxity, we have less sensitivity and feeling during intercourse. Also, the bulbocavernosus muscles are responsible for blood flow in clitoral and penile engorgement and therefore are directly related to orgasm in women and men.

Strong pelvic floor muscles and mind-muscle connection are key! Increasing sensitivity to the intimate area with heat, radiofrequency, and vibration enhance blood flow, renewal of collagen and elasticity, and tighten skin. I always recommend addressing tissue and skin health and muscle for optimal pelvic and sexual health. Surgery is sometimes necessary, but I always start with the basics to restore health.

3. Lower back pain
The pelvic floor muscles are the Foundation of the Core, along with the abdominal muscles, the long back muscles and the glutes. When the Core is weak in any one area, it results in poor posture, lower back pain, and functional limitations. Of course, if you are having shooting nerve-like pain in an extremity, it is important to seek medical care and appropriate imaging.

Core to Floor strength is essential for long term stability, balance, reduction in falls, optimal athletic performance, and pelvic and sexual wellness. Working with a trainer, physical therapist, and addressing core weakness with newer modalities like Emsculpt - high-frequency electromagnetic therapy for reducing inflammation and pain and for muscle building can help build a foundation of muscle without pain and effort, allowing you be able to engage in exercises that will help you maintain muscle and sustain your strength.

4. Poor balance or difficulty getting up from a chair or toilet
As we age, we lose muscle bulk and become weaker (sarcopenia) especially if we don’t have a good foundation of muscle. Also weight loss from GLP-1 peptides, can lead to a 40% loss in muscle all over the body- You have heard about Ozempic face and Ozempic butt-but what about Ozempic pelvic floor? When the pelvic floor muscles are weak, it is much more difficult to balance on one leg in yoga or pilates, do lunges, and even get up from a low chair or toilet.
Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over the age of 65! Women are at higher risk also because of loss of bone mass.

I recommend “training for life”. Engage in activities that involve resistance training, weight training, and bone stimulating movements. It is always recommended to start slow and light and build strength and stability to avoid injury and set backs. 7000-10000 steps per day with intervals of High-Intensity activities for 1-2 mins- like jumping jacks, jump rope, mountain climbers, jump-squats, etc are a great way to stimulate your metabolism, your muscle, and your bones. I have taught fitness, weightlifting, and now hot yoga for 35 years. It is never too late to “train for life”.

5. Pain with intercourse
Pain with intercourse can result from many things, but if it's pelvic floor related- pain can be at the entrance (vaginismus) upon entry or deeper from tight (hypertonic) muscles. When the pelvic muscles respond to a weakness in the core or a pelvic asymmetry or injury, they shorten and essentially get “tight” and weak at the same time. Think of having TMJ in your pelvis. The resulting symptoms can be pain, aching, burning, and even bladder urgency and frequency.

Pelvic Health Is Core to Your Wellness—Literally

According to Dr. Wallace, pelvic floor dysfunction is more common than most women realize. “I examine pelvic floor muscles in all my patients, and around 7 out of 10 women are unable to do a proper pelvic floor contraction,” she explains. “Many have weakness, and some also have tenderness along the internal muscles—but they often don’t know it until they’re assessed.”

Treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy, heat, vibration therapy, and sometimes muscle relaxants to both strengthen weak muscles and release tension in overly tight ones. But getting to the right provider can take time. “Most women see five or six healthcare professionals before they find someone who truly understands pelvic floor dysfunction,” Dr. Wallace adds.

As one of the few specialists in pelvic surgery and sexual medicine, her mission is clear: “I want women to understand how essential the pelvic floor is—not just for core strength and pelvic health, but for sexual wellness and longevity. You deserve to live your best life, in your best body.”

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The True Botanicals Anniversary Sale Is Here—Our Top Clean Picks

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The True Botanicals Anniversary Sale starts Friday, June 21, with up to 30% off sitewide on their clean, non-toxic skincare. It’s a great opportunity to stock up—or finally try—the products that have earned this brand a loyal following among celebrities and beauty editors alike.

Known for their science-backed formulas and sustainable ingredients, True Botanicals proves that clean beauty can deliver serious results. If you've been curious about what makes the brand so beloved by names like Jessica Chastain, Eva Mendes, and Laura Dern, now’s your chance.

Not sure where to start? Here are the cult-favorite picks worth scooping up during the sale.

Ginger Turmeric Cleansing Balm

Why You’ll Love It: One of Kate Hudson’s “holy grail” skincare staples, this triple-threat balm brightens, balances, and revitalizes in one step.
The Details: Formulated with antioxidant-rich ginger and turmeric, this clean beauty essential melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping your skin. The result? A hydrated, soft, and totally refreshed complexion. Shop Here

Chebula Active Serum

Why You’ll Love It: A next-gen, age-defying serum that’s actually clean and clinically backed.
The Details: Powered by chebula, one of the most potent antioxidants in skincare, this multitasking serum visibly reduces fine lines, fades dark spots, firms, and hydrates—all while optimizing your skin’s natural collagen. It’s proof that clean skincare can be high-performance. Shop Here

Pure Radiance Oil

Why You’ll Love It: This iconic face oil is the cult favorite—designed to deliver results with zero compromise.
The Details: Made with 14 nutrient-rich plant oils and absolutely no fillers, this formula is a masterclass in non-toxic luxury. It’s clinically proven to outperform a top anti-aging cream, restoring radiance and resilience while supporting your skin’s barrier. Shop Here

Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum

Why You’ll Love It: A smarter, gentler take on retinol that aligns with your clean beauty standards.
The Details: Powered by Peptilium®, this plant-based retinol alternative delivers faster, more visible results than traditional retinol—without the sensitivity. Wake up to smoother, firmer skin, minus the harsh side effects. Clean, green, and highly effective. Shop Here

Chebula Extreme Cream

Why You’ll Love It: An award-winning cream that acts like a moisturizer and a treatment.
The Details: Rich and cushiony, this next-level cream is powered by chebula—one of the most bioactive, photostable antioxidants in nature—to prevent, protect, and correct visible signs of aging. It delivers a surge of deep moisture without using pore-clogging waxes, thanks to a proprietary blend of protein rejuvenators, fatty-acid-rich emollients, and breathable occlusives. Infused with multi-weight hyaluronic acid, acerola cherry, and calendula oil, it deeply hydrates, brightens, and soothes even the most sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, pregnancy-safe, and suitable for all skin types, this is your new daily essential. Shop Here

Chebula Multi-Corrective Eye Patches

Why You’ll Love It: The gold standard of under-eye patches—clean, effective, and clinically proven.
The Details: These luxe hydrogel patches are powered by chebula and clinically proven to target five signs of aging—firmness, brightness, puffiness, hydration, and plumpness—in just 15 minutes. Infused with a cascade of collagen-optimizing antioxidants, they deliver instant and lasting results while being 100% biodegradable and MADE SAFE certified. They even dissolve under warm water—an eco-conscious ritual you’ll want to make a regular part of your routine. Shop here

Whether you're refreshing your routine or trying True Botanicals for the first time, this sale is the perfect excuse to stock up and save. Clean, effective, and seriously luxurious—what’s not to love? Shop the Anniversary Sale starting now at truebotanicals.com – and don’t wait. These best-sellers tend to fly off the shelves fast.

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5 Transformative Lessons from Brené Brown’s Atlas of the Heart

Brené Brown has long been one of our go-to authors when we’re craving a deeper connection—with ourselves, with others, and with the language that holds it all together. Her book Atlas of the Heart is one we’ve found ourselves returning to again and again. It’s not just insightful—it’s grounding.

In a world that often encourages us to brush past our feelings or label everything as just “good” or “bad,” Atlas of the Heart offers something far more generous: a vocabulary for our most human experiences. With warmth, research, and vulnerability, Brown maps out 87 emotions and states of being, helping us navigate the complexity of what it really means to feel—and to connect.

Here are five lessons from Atlas of the Heart that we keep coming back to—because they continue to shape how we show up in our relationships, our work, and ourselves.

Here are five powerful lessons we took away from this game-changing book:

1. Naming an Emotion Is a Form of Power

 

Brown emphasizes that language gives us access to meaning—and meaning gives us access to choice. When we can clearly name what we’re feeling, we’re better equipped to respond rather than react. Instead of spiraling into vague feelings of “bad” or “off,” identifying disappointment, envy, or resentment helps us process with clarity and intention.

Takeaway: Emotional literacy isn’t soft—it’s strategic. The more specific your language, the more empowered your actions.

2. Vulnerability Isn’t Weakness—It’s the Path to Connection

 

Throughout Atlas of the Heart, Brown reaffirms a core theme of her work: vulnerability is not a flaw—it’s the birthplace of love, joy, and belonging. But vulnerability without boundaries is not bravery. Knowing when, why, and with whom to be vulnerable is an act of emotional wisdom.

Takeaway: Embracing vulnerability means allowing space for true intimacy and authenticity, while still protecting your emotional well-being.

3. Comparison Is the Thief of Joy—But It’s Also a Natural Human Response

 

Instead of telling us to never compare ourselves to others, Brown invites us to understand what’s underneath comparison: unmet desires, insecurities, or even longing. When we acknowledge comparison as a clue—not a character flaw—it becomes a tool for growth.

Takeaway: Use comparison as a mirror, not a measuring stick. What are you really yearning for?

4. Empathy Is a Skill—And It Requires Boundaries

 

One of the most surprising revelations from the book? True empathy isn’t about absorbing someone else’s pain—it’s about understanding it while still staying grounded in your own emotional truth. Brown reminds us that empathy without boundaries can lead to burnout, resentment, or even co-dependence.

Takeaway: You can hold space for others without carrying their emotions. Boundaried empathy is sustainable empathy.

5. Belonging Starts with Believing You’re Worthy of It

 

Brown redefines true belonging as not fitting in, but showing up as your full self. When we betray ourselves to gain approval, we trade short-term acceptance for long-term disconnection. Real belonging begins when we believe we’re enough—even when we feel out of place.

Takeaway: Belonging isn’t about who lets you in—it’s about not abandoning yourself to get there.

Let’s Map Our Hearts Back to Wholeness

 

Atlas of the Heart is a reminder that our emotions aren’t obstacles—they’re guideposts. In a world that often tells us to toughen up or move on, Brené Brown invites us to slow down, get curious, and connect the dots between what we feel and how we live.

Understanding our inner world doesn’t guarantee life will be easier—but it can make it feel more honest, more connected, and more our own. Whether we’re stumbling through grief, riding the highs of joy, or navigating the quiet in-between, the ability to name our experiences gives us the chance to live them more fully—and more bravely.

The post 5 Transformative Lessons from Brené Brown’s Atlas of the Heart appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Living Well with Wildling Founder: On Gua Sha Tools, Lymphatic Health + Slow Beauty

Wildling Beauty isn’t your average clean-beauty line—it’s more like a modern-day ritual kit dreamed up by an acupuncturist (Gianna De La Torre) and a product alchemist–herbalist (Jill Munson) who believe glowing skin starts with a well-loved lymph system and a calmer nervous system. Born from late-night gua sha sessions, hours in the treatment room, and a shared conviction that “wild-crafted” can outperform injectables, the brand pairs mineral-rich Bian-stone tools with whole-plant formulas to turn daily skincare into a full-body reset.

In this Living Well conversation, the duo open up about everything from the logistical chaos of launching their first product—picture Gianna packing orders with a newborn strapped to her chest—to why less pressure (and more neck work) is the real secret behind gua sha’s glow. They also drop vitamin-cabinet must-haves and the one five-minute sequence that rescues puffed-up mornings. Consider this your backstage pass to a brand that’s rewriting beauty culture one intentional stroke at a time.

Living Well with Wildling Founders

What sparked the idea for Wildling, and when did you know it was something the world needed?

Gianna: As an acupuncturist in Los Angeles, I’ve always been drawn to holistic healing modalities—and I believe many other women are, too. They just need effective options. As younger women were increasingly turning to pharmaceutical injectables, we wanted to offer wild-crafted skincare and premium facial tools that deliver compelling results. We were on a mission to prove that clean, natural beauty truly works.

Jill: The idea for Wildling sparked when I took a gua sha workshop led by our cofounder, Britta Plug. At the time, facial gua sha was relatively unknown in the U.S., but once I experienced it firsthand, I immediately recognized how powerful and transformative it was. With my background in the beauty industry and a deep passion for herbalism, I knew we had an opportunity to share something truly meaningful—ritual-based skincare rooted in traditional wisdom and whole-plant healing. It was clear to me then: the world needed this.

How do you divide your strengths as co-founders? Is it clear-cut or more intuitive?

Gianna & Jill: As co-founders, we couldn’t be more different—and that’s our superpower. Launching a brand demands an incredibly broad skill set, so we naturally gravitated toward what each of us does best. In the beginning, our roles were more intuitive because we were wearing so many hats. Over time, things have become more defined and clear-cut.

What are three things you do every day, without fail, for your well-being?

Gianna: I exercise for an hour every day, meditate, and try to get 8 hours of sleep every night.

Jill: I workout, eat healthy, and get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. 

What do you wish more people knew about lymphatic health, and why is it so important for more than just skin tone?

Gianna & Jill: Your lymphatic system is a key detox pathway—it clears waste from your cells. When it's congested, it bogs down your entire system. One of the most important things you can do is move your body to keep it flowing. And don’t forget to stay hydrated!

If someone opened your wellness cabinet right now, what supplements would they find?

Gianna: Magnesium glycinate, vitamin D, high-quality probiotics, omega-3s, NAD, and NMN. I use supplements and Chinese herbs that are practitioner-grade. I always encourage people to invest in higher-quality, trusted brands—it makes a huge difference. I’m a big fan of Researched Nutritionals—Anxiaease and Transfer Factor Multi-Immune have been life-changing for me.

Jill: You’d find frankincense, turmeric, a good probiotic, omegas, zinc, and elderberry. My favorite, though, is an herbal tea I brew daily—it’s a blend of 25 medicinal roots, barks, fruits, and seeds that’s been incredible for balancing hormones and improving my sleep.

Gua sha has become such a buzzy tool, but you’ve been teaching it long before the trend. What do people still get wrong about it?

Gianna: They use way too much pressure on the face.  Less is more.

Jill: The angle of how the tool is held, for most strokes the tool is held almost flat to the skin.  

Moonbounce is a newer launch and already a cult favorite. Who is this product for, and how do you recommend incorporating it into a routine for skin repair or recovery?

Gianna & Jill: Our Moonbounce 2% Bioretinol Moisturizer features a plant-based bioretinol clinically tested against traditional retinol—and it outperforms without the redness or irritation. It’s gentle enough for day or night use, and over the course of a few weeks, you’ll see a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

What’s something you wish someone had told you before launching your first product?

Gianna: How complex the logistics would be—packaging, shipping, and getting it to market. That was a rude awakening. When we launched, I was a new mom. I was literally packing boxes with my four-month-old strapped to my chest. These are the less glamorous realities of startup life.

Jill: Having worked in product development across many beauty brands, I came in with a strong foundation—but bringing a product to life on your own is an entirely different experience. I don’t think I would’ve wanted anyone to tell me more at that stage—it might have shifted my path. It all unfolded exactly as it was meant to, and I’m deeply grateful for the journey.

If you had to pick just one Wildling ritual for someone who’s brand new to this kind of skincare—what would it be and why?

Gianna & Jill: Our Empress Collection—the facial gua sha starter set we launched with—is still our best-seller. It delivers incredible results. The before-and-afters speak for themselves.

Let’s talk about the Empress and Aura tools. What makes these tools different from the hundreds of gua sha tools on the market?

Gianna: These are our patented gua sha tools for face and body. When we launched, we changed the game in the U.S. with designs that fit comfortably in your hand and address specific skin concerns. The Empress Stone lifts, plumps, and sculpts the face. The Aura Stone features a unique wavy edge that helps reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Jill: What sets the Empress and Aura tools apart is that they’re patented and custom-designed based on hundreds of hours in the treatment room. Every angle, curve, and the weight of the stone was intentionally crafted to deliver the most effective results. We also use 100% pure, sustainably sourced Bian stone—a high-vibration, mineral-rich material—unlike many tools on the market that use lower-grade stones or fillers. These tools are truly in a league of their own.

If someone only has 5 minutes—what’s your go-to quick gua sha sequence for glow and grounding?

Gianna: Don’t skip the neck! Lymphatic drainage from below the earlobe to the clavicle is essential for de-puffing. I’d also add lifting strokes across the entire face for an instant glow.

Jill: Start with gentle downward strokes on the neck to open up lymphatic flow and release shoulder tension. Move to lifting strokes across the cheeks and jaw—spend an extra moment there if you're holding tension—then finish by combing through the scalp. It’s a quick, energizing reset that brings glow to the skin and grounding to the whole system.

How do you approach aging—as a human, and as someone who works in beauty?

Gianna: Gosh, that’s a loaded question—but I’ll keep it simple. I genuinely love my skincare routine. It’s part of how I regulate my nervous system. Sometimes I stretch it out over hours—doing gua sha while watching a movie, taking a nap under red light, or meditating with acupuncture needles in my face. I’m a total skincare nerd. I also think sleep is the ultimate beauty ritual. If you’re not prioritizing rest, there’s only so much your skincare can do. I lean into sleep—deeply.

Jill: For me, aging is really about feeling my best—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s about living in a way that supports vitality and connection, so I can move through life with energy and presence. As someone who works in beauty, I see aging as something to embrace, not fear. When I feel balanced and well from the inside out, it naturally shows on my skin and in my energy—how we look is often just a reflection of how we feel.

This is why Wildling exists—to help us look and feel our best at any age through a truly holistic path. With my years of experience in both beauty and wellness, I’ve seen time and again that this approach is what delivers the most lasting transformation. It’s not about a quick fix—it’s about rituals, nourishment, and consistency that support deep, radiant well-being over time.

Complete this sentence: Living well means…

Gianna: Living well means drinking fresh water, eating clean food, seeing the world, and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Jill: Living well means embracing practices that support a healthy, balanced life—honoring our bodies and the earth, putting family and connection first, staying curious, leading with love, and following the wisdom of the heart.

The post Living Well with Wildling Founder: On Gua Sha Tools, Lymphatic Health + Slow Beauty appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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5 Red Flags to Watch for Before Booking Any Aesthetic Treatment

The world of aesthetic medicine has exploded in recent years—from subtle tweakments like microneedling and botox to advanced lasers .With so many providers offering cosmetic procedures, how can you know who to trust?

We tapped Gabby Garritano, board-certified Physician Assistant and Founder & CEO of JECT, to break down what every patient should watch out for before booking a treatment. With licensure across California, New York, and Florida—and over a decade of experience working with some of NYC’s most esteemed plastic surgeons—Gabby has built a reputation for expertise, education, and natural-looking results.

“At JECT, we’re obsessed with safety and specialization. It’s not just about what you do—it’s about how well, how safely, and how consistently you do it,” she tells us.

We asked her to share the biggest red flags she sees in the industry—and how to protect yourself before committing to your next treatment.

1. Lack of Credentials

“Medical aesthetic treatments marry science and art,” says Gabby. “Just because someone can treat, doesn't mean they are well trained to treat or hold the appropriate credentials.”

At JECT, all providers are board-certified Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners—and they undergo rigorous in-house training before treating clients. Gabby recommends looking for the credentials PA-C (Physician Assistant-Certified) or NP-C (Nurse Practitioner-Certified). The “C” signifies certification from national boards like the NCCPA or AANPCB, meaning your provider has the education and testing necessary to safely perform medical procedures.

Having these credentials shows that the injector understands human anatomy—a non-negotiable when it comes to your face.

2. Edited Before & After Results

Instagram filters may be fun, but when it comes to before-and-afters, they’re a major red flag. “I’d recommend reviewing the before and after photos on your provider’s page and the specific treatment you are interested in,” Gabby advises. “If photos on their social media seem overly edited, retouched, or too good to be true, it could indicate photoshopping or unrealistic results.”

Translation: If something looks too flawless, it probably is.

3. Lack of Specialization

In aesthetics, niche expertise is everything. “You will want to avoid medical aesthetic practices that offer any and every treatment under the sun,” Gabby says. “The best clinics will specialize in certain aesthetics and ensure that they do it well.”

At JECT, that focus is crystal clear. “We specialize in natural looking medical aesthetics for the face that is perfectly tailored to your unique anatomy,” she explains. “You wouldn’t go to an Italian restaurant for Thai food in the same way you wouldn’t come to JECT for laser hair removal or body sculpting. We don’t specialize in those treatments. We do, however, specialize in: Fillers, Microneedling & Wrinkle Reducers.”

That kind of clarity—and humility—is exactly what you want in a provider.

4. Lack of Personalization

A one-size-fits-all approach has no place in aesthetic medicine. “Believe it or not, some medical spas operate without prior consultations,” says Gabby. “At JECT, we make sure to provide a personalized experience. This all starts with a consultation where we assess your history, keep your specific goals in mind, all while sticking to your unique anatomy.”

JECT’s expertise, Gabby adds, makes their consultations approachable. Patients feel heard, seen, and supported—not rushed through a cookie-cutter experience. “If you are not feeling like you are the main focus, or the services are not tailored to you, leave.”

5. Lack of Pre-care & Aftercare Instructions

An expert provider will not only know what to do during your treatment—but how to prepare and care for your skin before and after.

“During your consultation, your provider should explain in detail what you should or should not do before and after treatment to prevent adverse reactions from occurring,” Gabby explains. “At JECT we give take-home treatment calendars to address appropriate next steps. If you have unanswered questions prior to the treatment, don’t get the treatment.”

This step-by-step guidance is crucial to ensure long-term results and avoid complications.

Bonus Red Flag: Too-Cheap Services or Groupon Specials

If you find yourself tempted by that too-good-to-be-true discount… pause. “Discount websites are for hotels, not your body,” Gabby cautions. “You get what you pay for, and usually that means safety, sanitary conditions, and certified professionals.”

Aesthetic medicine is still medicine. “Don’t take a gamble—it could cost you time, money, and pain. Book directly with an office, and be sure to check out the Google reviews beforehand.”

The post 5 Red Flags to Watch for Before Booking Any Aesthetic Treatment appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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5 Skincare Tools That Do More While You Do Less

Some of the links in this story are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you choose to purchase—helping us continue to share mindful, inspiring content.

Let’s hear it for skincare that works harder so we don’t have to. If your beauty shelf is packed but your schedule is not, you’re going to love these multitasking skincare tools that do the heavy lifting (or sculpting, brightening, depuffing...) while you go about your day.

Whether you're sipping tea, watching your favorite show, or journaling before bed, these high-performance tools help you glow with less effort and more intention. Here are five Chalkboard-approved skincare tools we’re loving right now—and why they’re worth adding to your line up.

1. BON CHARGE Red Light Face Mask
The multitasking glow-up moment.
This sleek, hands-free LED mask uses red and near-infrared light to visibly reduce redness, improve firmness, and support overall skin radiance. It’s low-effort, high-impact, and cordless—which means you can do just about anything while it works its skin-rejuvenating magic. Think: face mask meets multitasking queen.

Why we love it: This mask delivers powerful red (630 nm) and near-infrared light deep into the skin, helping to reduce redness, stimulate collagen, smooth fine lines, and boost radiance. In our experience, it leaves skin plumper and visibly more even in just 10 minutes—like a mini spa session on the couch. You can read our full review here  and Shop Here.

2. PMD Clean Pro Quartz
The cleansing tool that warms up to you.
This sonic-powered cleansing brush features ultra-hygienic silicone bristles on one side and a warming rose quartz massage tool on the other. It deep-cleans, calms, and preps your skin to absorb all the good stuff.

Why we love it: Sonic vibrations paired with a warming rose quartz side deeply cleanse and decongest pores, leaving skin softer and brighter—and we noticed it noticeably enhances absorption of serums and moisturizers that follow. Shop Here.

3. Medicube Booster Pro
The K-beauty device that goes deeper.
From Korea’s cult-favorite Medicube, this device combines radiofrequency (RF), EMS, and LED technology to stimulate collagen, lift facial contours, and supercharge product absorption. Think of it as a smart boost for your whole regimen.

Why we love it: It feels high-tech and high-touch, delivering visible results without the spa appointment. Plus, it fits into a 5-minute routine. We love using the different modes at night—and sometimes even use it over a sheet mask to help the essence absorb better. Shop Here.

4. Wildling Empress Stone
The ancient ritual with modern impact.
Made from ethically sourced Bian stone, this gua sha tool is designed to relieve tension, promote lymphatic drainage, and sculpt facial features. Used consistently, it’s one of the most grounding (and glow-boosting) rituals you can build into your day.

Why we love it: It helps reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and lift the appearance of facial contours—all while turning your routine into a slow beauty ritual. We love that it's rooted in tradition and instantly brings a sense of calm to your skincare practice. Shop Here. 

5. Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand
The sleek cryo stick that de-bloats in seconds.
This cooling wand was designed to visibly reduce puffiness around the face and eyes using cold therapy and targeted massage. It’s a lifesaver for morning faces, travel fatigue, or anytime you need to reset.

Why we love it: It chills, sculpts, and soothes—all in one go. It’s a must for traveling and those moments in the morning where you need to visibly depuff. Bonus: it looks good on your vanity too. Shop Here.

The post 5 Skincare Tools That Do More While You Do Less appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Living Well With Amy Lea | On Deconditioning, Self-Trust + Why There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Match

Astrologer and Human Design analyst Amy Lea is known for blending deep energetic insight with grounded, real-world application. With a background in somatics and nervous system work, she helps leaders and creatives break free from who the world told them to be—and reconnect with their most aligned, authentic selves.

In this Living Well conversation, Amy shares her journey from skeptic to trusted guide, how she uses Human Design and Astrology in tandem, and what deconditioning really looks like in practice. Plus, her take on compatibility, decision-making, and the one practice anyone can start today to feel more aligned in life, love, and business.

Living Well With Amy Lea

Did you have any skepticism when you first started exploring Astrology and Human Design? What changed your mind? Absolutely. I’m naturally sceptical and have always approached these systems through the lens of experimentation. From the beginning, I tested how aspects of my design showed up in real life. If something in my chart suggested one thing, I’d often try the opposite—just to feel the contrast and gather my own proof. 

This is the approach I now recommend to my clients. Don’t take anything as gospel—not from me, not from a teacher, not from a book. Let your lived experience be the ultimate test. 

Both systems earned my trust not through theory, but through real-life experimentation. 

If Astrology is the blueprint of our soul and Human Design is the instruction manual, how do they work together to give us a full picture of who we are? These two systems are incredibly complementary. In my practice, I rarely use one without the other.

I usually begin with Human Design—especially Strategy and Authority—because that’s the piece that helps people start aligning with how they’re designed to make decisions and use their energy. Once you’re living in alignment with your mechanics, the rest of the chart (astrological or human design) starts to unfold in much clearer, more embodied ways.

Astrology then adds a rich, multidimensional layer: it tells us about your soul lessons, your innate gifts, areas of growth, and the timing of key life transitions. Where Human Design offers the ‘how,’ astrology gives us insight into the ‘why’ and ‘when.’

Together, they form a powerful system for self-awareness, energetic alignment, and timing—tools I use every day to help my clients make smarter decisions in business, deepen relationships, support their families, and navigate life with more ease and self-trust.

What’s one simple practice anyone can start today to feel more aligned in their body and business? Start experimenting with your Human Design Strategy and Authority. It's simple, practical, and life-changing. Most people spend their lives making decisions based on conditioning, external pressure, or fear. Strategy and Authority is about coming back to the body’s intelligence—learning to trust your inner navigation system over the noise of the world.

This is the foundation of everything I teach—whether I’m working with entrepreneurs, creatives, or people just trying to get unstuck. The more you honour your design in decision-making, the more aligned your body, business, and relationships become.

What’s your take on “compatibility” in Astrology and Human Design? Is there really such a thing as an ‘ideal’ match? My take is a little unconventional. I don’t believe in a perfect match based solely on charts. Compatibility is less about “right” or “wrong” and more about awareness, capacity, and willingness.

I’ve worked with clients in all kinds of dynamics, and what matters most is whether both people are operating from their true self or from conditioning and unhealed patterns. Someone might have a “perfect match” chart-wise, but if they’re living from wounding, the relationship will likely be challenging anyway.

Instead of using charts to pick or eliminate people, I use them to foster deeper understanding: How are you wired differently? What does the other person need in conflict or connection? What are your relational blind spots?

I always encourage people to let their Authority—not someone else’s analysis—guide their relationship decisions. The charts can then become tools for compassion, harmony, and deeper understanding of the other. 

You talk about “deconditioning” from who the world told us to be—what does that process actually look like in practice? Deconditioning is incredibly unsexy, but it is the most important part of the Human Design journey. It’s the ongoing process of illuminating and shedding the stories, habits, and expectations we’ve picked up from family, culture, and society that aren't truly ours.

From birth, we’re conditioned by other people’s energy, and we take on ideas and stories about how we should work, love, behave, and succeed. But most of that isn’t aligned with our true design. So we wind up exhausted, stuck, or off track.

Deconditioning is about noticing your default reactions and where the world puts you under pressure to be someone you are not - usually this looks like trying to prove yourself, hustling for worthiness or meeting unattainable standards. Then, through the awareness of these patterns, you can gradually shift your behaviour by noticing before acting.

It’s also about rebuilding confidence in your true self, so you stop wasting energy trying to be someone you’re not. This is where sustainable energy, clarity, and deep alignment live. In my work, I talk about becoming "unfuckwithable" in your power and self-trust which is what deconditioning helps you do. 

What’s the biggest misconception people have about you and your work? That I’m really woo-woo! While my work involves energetic systems and esoteric tools, I’m actually a very grounded and practical person (I have a lot of Capricorn in my chart). 

I don’t do a lot of rituals or carry a pocketful of crystals. My sessions are often focused on business, team dynamics, stress management, and aligned leadership. I work with CEOs, creatives, practitioners, and sensitive humans who want to live and work in a way that’s energetically sustainable and true to them.

My style is direct, spacious, and always anchored in the real world. I’m here for insight—but even more so for integration and practical application. 

Are there any books, practices, or philosophies outside of Astrology and Human Design that have profoundly influenced the way you see the world? The work of Donny Epstein has been profoundly impactful for me—particularly Network Spinal and EpiEnergetics. These practices have helped me regulate my nervous system in ways I didn’t know were possible, and created the safety I needed for greater expansion and visibility. 

Outside of that, my life is also deeply shaped by nervous system work and somatic practices; I’m always exploring how these bodies of work weave together to support wholeness and sustainable success. 

If someone only had 10 minutes to look at their chart or Human Design, what should they focus on first? Start with your Strategy and Authority (you can look this up here).  It’s the entry point, the anchor, and the most important piece to integrate.

You can spend years down the rabbit hole of gates, lines, and transits—but if you’re not making decisions in alignment with your Authority, you’re likely still running on conditioning. Strategy and Authority are where the magic begins. It’s what helps you come back into your body and start trusting yourself and your decision-making. 

Complete this sentence: Living well means…

Living well means being brave enough to be fully yourself. To honour your design, trust your body, own your power, and let go of who the world told you to be. When you live from that place, life starts to feel richer and more easeful. 

The post Living Well With Amy Lea | On Deconditioning, Self-Trust + Why There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Match appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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