The Good Fat Your Longevity Stack Is Missing (Even If You Take Omega 3s, NMN, and Collagen)

If you have ever stood in front of your supplement shelf wondering which bottle is the real star of healthy aging, you are not alone. We have covered fatty15 many times because the science behind C15:0 keeps getting stronger. With so many supplements on the market, we wanted clear answers. What is fatty15 really doing in the body, and how is it different from the usual favorites? So we went to the source, spoke with the CEO and cofounder of fatty15, and dug into the research that first sparked the discovery.

A quick origin story that we love. Years before fatty15, Dr. Stephanie Venn Watson and her team were studying long lived dolphins and noticed that healthier dolphins had higher levels of a specific odd chain fatty acid called C15:0. That clue pointed to a sturdy fat that seems to help cells stay resilient over time. The dolphin signal led to human research, and the takeaway was surprisingly clear. Make the cell’s outer layer sturdier and the rest of your wellness routine has a smoother job.

Think of your cells like beautiful homes that face every season. Omega 3s help keep the air clear inside the house. NMN supports the power supply. Collagen keeps the trim smooth. C15:0 focuses on the roof and the frame. When the roof holds and the frame stays sturdy, the whole house ages better.

Why this fat feels different from the rest

A lot of aging starts at the cell edges where outside stress meets the inside of you. Those edges are your cell membranes. Life can make them flimsy. As fatty15 cofounder Dr. Stephanie Venn Watson told us, “C15:0 physically strengthens cell membranes that tend to break down as we age.” Translation for real life. Stronger borders mean cleaner signals, steadier energy, and better results from the rest of your routine.

Here is the other reason C15:0 stands out. It is being recognized as essential in the same way we talk about the classic omegas. Essential means our bodies need it for baseline health but do not make enough on their own. In 2020 researchers proposed C15:0 as essential, and independent teams have continued to replicate key findings, including reversal of a defined C15:0 deficiency pattern and support for healthy growth in early life. That is not hype. That is a growing stack of peer reviewed science.

Omega 3s support signaling balance. NMN feeds the NAD pathway for energy and repair. Collagen supports structural proteins for skin and joints. C15:0 is the sturdy base layer you stack beneath the favorites you already love.

That quiet fire called inflammaging

Here is how C15:0 turns the heat down

Think of inflammaging as a slow simmer that never quite turns off. It is not the big flare you get with an infection. It is a low steady burn from everyday stressors like poor sleep, ultra processed food, pollution, and just getting older. That slow burn nudges your body to send out inflammatory signals on repeat, which can make everything from energy to skin to recovery feel a little off.

C15:0 helps from two directions. First, it makes membranes harder to damage. Second, it talks to your internal control panel.

Simple version. Inside your cells are master light switches for inflammation. Scientists call two of them JAK STAT and NF kB. When those switches stay stuck on, your body keeps blasting inflammatory signals. C15:0 helps nudge the switches toward off, which means fewer of those signals go out. As Dr. Venn Watson explains, “C15:0 directly inhibits key inflammatory pathways to lower more than eighteen proinflammatory cytokines.” You do not need the acronyms. Remember this instead. Sturdier walls. Calmer control panel. Less background heat.

Your cell’s two big switches

Energy and cleanup made simple

Think of AMPK as your energy thermostat and mTOR as your renovation schedule. When AMPK is active, cells use fuel wisely and protect their tiny power plants. When mTOR is kept in a healthy rhythm, your cells take out the trash and recycle worn parts through autophagy. C15:0 has been shown to activate AMPK and gently ease mTOR into balance, which translates to steadier energy and better cellular cleanup working in the background so everything else in your routine can land.

Will you feel anything

Fatty15 is built for the long game. It supports more than thirty six cellular activities that touch metabolic, immune, liver, cognitive, and red blood cell health.

Here is what you may notice, the pure C15:0 in fatty15 helps inhibit MAO B and FAAH. Your body also uses C15:0 to make a metabolite called pentadecanoylcarnitine, or PDC. PDC acts as a full endocannabinoid that taps into blissful feelings. In short, these actions help support healthy dopamine and endocannabinoid levels that promote healthy sleep, mood, joint, and cognitive health.

That lines up with what many users report. About seventy percent see or feel benefits within sixteen weeks, Incluidng better sleep, improved energy, healthier mood, or improved overall health. 

Bring C15:0 into your routine

If you already take omega 3s for balanced signaling, NMN for energy, and collagen for skin and joints, C15:0 is the foundation that helps everything else land.

It strengthens the cell’s outer layer, helps cool quiet inflammation, and supports the energy and cleanup switches that make a routine feel effective rather than busy.

To make it easy to start, fatty15 is offering 20% off the 90 Day Starter Kit with subscription. It’s the ideal way to give your cells the consistent support they need to actually see results over time.

If you want your longevity stack to work smarter, not louder, this is where to begin.
Shop fatty15 and complete your stack today.

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The Designer Behind the Jewelry and Hair Moments Loved by Rihanna and Anne Hathaway

Deborah Pagani has always designed for women who know their power. She first honed her eye in the electric energy of the New York salon scene, then carried it into sculptural jewelry and hair accessories that became favorites of Rihanna, Anne Hathaway, and other women who gravitate toward pieces with presence. Her aesthetic is confident, sensual, and quietly glamorous, with a wink of nostalgia that feels entirely her own.

Her newest chapter brings that point of view into haircare. Deborah Pagani Beauty was created for the woman who wants performance without sacrificing pleasure and for the woman who believes a beautiful routine should feel like a moment, not a chore. Here, Pagani shares the story behind her brand, the rituals that shaped her, and the creative instincts guiding her next evolution.

In Conversation with Deborah Pagani

You began your career as a colorist under legends like Oribe Canales and John Sahag. How did working in that world shape your eye for sculptural design and the way you approach beauty now

New York in the nineties was different. The salon felt like part of the nightlife. It was not a quick appointment. It was an event. People came dressed, they stayed, they talked. It was social, loud, glamorous in that very New York way. Clients were not just there for their hair. They wanted to feel transformed, seen, part of something. That taught me early on that beauty is about experience as much as outcome. The energy, the ritual, the confidence you walk out with. That idea, beauty as a moment, not just a result, comes straight from that era and still drives how I design today.

Working with icons like Prince and Cyndi Lauper at such a young age must have been surreal. What stayed with you from those rooms, those personalities, those creative worlds

What stayed with me was how comfortable I felt in those rooms, even at that age. I trusted my instincts. You did not overthink. You did the work and stood by it.

Motherhood clearly shifted your perspective on the salon world. How did that shift guide the career choices and creative direction you pursued afterward?

Motherhood shifted how I looked at the salon world. I assumed that world would always take everything from me. What I did not expect was that building your own company is even more nonstop. The difference was ownership. I wanted to create things tied to experiences. Luxury rituals that did not really exist yet, but felt accessible. I have always been a dreamer, but grounded. The brand lives in that balance. Aspirational but attainable. Designed to fit into real life and built entirely on my terms.

Your work has a very specific visual language. How would you describe the aesthetic codes that define a Deborah Pagani piece?

For me, it has always been about a feeling. Beauty should feel intentional but never intimidating. There is a sense of fantasy to it, the kind that pulls you in, not pushes you out. That is what lured me into the beauty world in the first place. Deborah Pagani Beauty is designed to feel elevated but approachable. Luxurious but easy to enter. The visual language is soft power, sensual, refined, and intuitive. Products that invite you into a ritual, not a rule book. It is aspirational but attainable. Beauty that feels a little dreamlike yet completely wearable in real life. That balance is the DNA.

Your French hair pin became a modern cult classic. What do you think made women ready to embrace that shape again?

I have always loved nostalgia and classic forms. But I wanted to engineer it to perfection for how women live now. It took two years to get the shape, weight, and tension exactly right. That is what turned it into a classic cult piece. Familiar at first glance but unmistakably modern once you use it. Shop the hair pin here. 

Your designs have appeared on women who define modern glamour in very different ways including Rihanna, Anne Hathaway, Adriana Lima, and Priyanka Chopra. What is the throughline you see among women who choose your work?

The through-line is confidence and sex appeal. They are all very sexy but in their own way. It is not performative and it is not about trends. They know what works for them and they do not need permission. They are not trying to wear what everyone else is wearing. They are drawn to pieces that feel a little dangerous, a little personal. My work is sexy. That is intentional. I do limited runs and one of a kinds because the right piece should feel discovered, not obvious. Strong, feminine, and confident, never overdone.

What was the moment you knew it was time to create Deborah Pagani Beauty rather than collaborating with an existing brand or staying exclusively in accessories?

I am a control freak. Beauty is too personal and the details matter too much. It would have taken an extremely specific partner to get it right, so I built it myself.

What was the toughest part of getting from concept to final formula. Finding the right lab, dialing in performance, perfecting the fragrance, or creating the packaging?

Performance was non negotiable. Everything I design has to multitask. It needs to do more than one thing or it does not belong. Fragrance mattered just as much. A stock scent was never going to happen. I wanted a scent that did not exist in haircare, so I worked with Jerome Epinette to create something elevated but wearable. And the bottle had to look like it was designed by a jewelry designer because it was. The object matters as much as what is inside. Everything has to meet the same standard.

The fragrance has already become a defining part of the line. What was the initial inspiration behind the scent?

The scent came from nostalgia but it was designed with intention. I kept coming back to my Cuban grandmother’s desserts, the warmth, the sweetness, the way the air always carried something comforting. I wanted to make something for the gourmand girls because haircare never really did. This sits in an amber gourmand world but it is layered and adult. You get saffron and pistachio up top, then jasmine petals and black leather to keep it grounded, softened with condensed milk. It dries down to vanilla bean, ambroxan, pink sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. It had to feel ageless, sensual, and easy to layer with other scents. Familiar but unexpected. A little indulgent, never juvenile.

The Vital Mist is positioned as an all in one heat activated essence. What did you feel was missing in traditional heat protectants that pushed you to create something more elevated?

Traditional heat protectants always felt one dimensional. They did one job, usually at the expense of how your hair actually felt, especially if you have fine hair. The Vital Mist was designed to multitask. Heat protection, hydration, smoothing, and movement in one step. It is also an incredible refresher. I use it the way you use a face mist. A reset with no buildup. I tested it on women with the finest hair, women who refuse to use anything on their hair. They could not believe there was finally something formulated with them in mind. Heat activates it but it stays weightless. It disappears into the hair, does the work, and lets your hair still feel like your hair, only better.

Your glass bottles are now part of the brand identity. What do you want the packaging to communicate about the formulas inside?

The bottle was designed to feel like an object you want to pick up. It is inspired by a woman’s curves, both the perfections and the imperfections, translated into something sculptural and ergonomic. It feels good in the hand, not just visually. That is intentional. The packaging is meant to reflect the formulas inside. Considered, elevated, and designed to work beautifully in real life. It sets the tone before you even use it.

Now that jewelry, hair accessories, and beauty sit under one identity, what part of the creative world are you curious to explore or expand next?

I feel incredibly grateful that I get to build in this way. Curiosity is what has always guided me and right now that means going deeper. More multitasking formulas that really earn their place and one day a scent when it feels right. Hair accessories will continue to evolve and jewelry will become even more intimate with one of a kinds and very limited drops. I do not take it lightly that people invite these pieces into their lives. That responsibility and that trust is what excites me most about what comes next.

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What a Nutritionist Eats in December to Stay Balanced

December has a way of testing even the most grounded routines… Colder weather. Shorter days. More sugar everywhere you turn. More social plans, more travel, more late nights, more stress layered on top of good intentions. It is one of the hardest months of the year to “stay healthy” if your definition of healthy means rigid rules, perfection, or white knuckling your way through holiday meals.

This is why I never approach December with a perfection mindset. The goal is not to eat “clean” at every meal or to avoid holiday foods altogether. The goal is to support your body so it can handle more than usual and still feel steady, energized, and grounded. When you shift your focus from restriction to support, December becomes much easier to navigate.

Warm, Grounding Meals
Cold foods and icy drinks can be harder on digestion in the winter, which can lead to bloating, fatigue, and stronger cravings. Warm foods are more supportive for the digestive system and help keep blood sugar more stable, which matters even more when life feels busier. This is why soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and slow cooked proteins become staples for me in December. Meals that are warm and nourishing signal safety to the body, which allows digestion and metabolism to function more efficiently. When your body feels supported, it is far less likely to crave quick energy from sugar all day long.

Protein + Fiber
Protein also becomes nonnegotiable this time of year. During the holidays, I see many people unintentionally under eat protein, especially earlier in the day. Breakfast turns into coffee and toast, lunches get rushed, and by the afternoon cravings are running the show. Protein is one of the most powerful tools we have for stabilizing energy, mood, hormones, and appetite. I aim for thirty grams of protein per meal whenever possible, because starting the day this way sets everything else up for success. When you prioritize protein at each meal, cravings calm down and enjoying holiday foods becomes much easier and more intuitive. In general, I encourage clients to think protein first and fiber second, then enjoy what is available. When meals are built this way, blood sugar stays more stable, portions regulate naturally, and guilt disappears. You can enjoy holiday foods without feeling like you have fallen off track.

Minerals 
This another critical piece that often gets overlooked in December. Stress, sugar, travel, and even colder weather all increase mineral loss, which can leave you feeling tired, anxious, dehydrated, or run down even if you are eating well. Supporting your body with minerals helps regulate hydration, stress response, and immune function. This looks like adding electrolytes to water, using sea salt intentionally on meals, eating leafy greens when possible, and including foods like pumpkin seeds and bone broth regularly. Minerals help your body handle stress more gracefully, which is especially important during a busy and emotionally charged season.

Immune Boosting Foods 
Because December is also peak viral season, I focus on consistently feeding my immune system rather than reacting once I feel run down. Garlic, ginger, onions, citrus, mushrooms, and bone broth show up often in my meals. These foods support immune function and gut health, which are deeply connected. When you nourish your immune system daily, it is better prepared to handle exposure from travel, gatherings, and long days.

Healthy Fats
Healthy fats also play a bigger role in winter than many people realize. As temperatures drop, the body naturally needs more fat to support hormones, skin health, inflammation balance, and steady energy. Including olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and salmon makes meals more satisfying and helps stabilize blood sugar during heavier holiday eating.

But as important as what I eat is how I eat. December nourishment is not only nutritional, it is nervous system support. Eating slowly, sitting down for meals, sharing food with loved ones, and staying off your phone while you eat all help signal safety to the body. Digestion, metabolism, and immunity work best when the nervous system is calm. That is how I personally approach December, and it is how I help my clients stay balanced during one of the most demanding months of the year.

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Why Not All Mushrooms Do the Same Thing And That Is the Point

Adaptogens are often talked about as if they all do the same thing. Reduce stress. Support immunity. Boost energy. But that way of thinking flattens what makes medicinal mushrooms so compelling in the first place.

Not all mushrooms are meant to do the same thing. And that is exactly why they work so well together.

Medicinal mushrooms operate across a spectrum. Each one supports a different system in the body, responding to stress in its own way. When they are thoughtfully combined, they do not push the body toward a single result. Instead, they support balance across multiple systems, helping the body meet modern stress with more resilience and ease.

What Adaptogens Actually Do

Adaptogens are not stimulants and they are not quick fixes. Their role is to support regulation. They help the body respond to stress rather than override it.

Medicinal mushrooms are especially known for this gentle, cumulative effect. Over time, they support the nervous system, immune response, cognitive function, and energy levels without the spikes and crashes that come from more aggressive approaches. They work best when they are part of a daily rhythm, not a dramatic intervention.

And because stress rarely shows up in just one place, blends matter. Mental fatigue, low energy, and weakened immunity tend to overlap. A spectrum of mushrooms reflects that reality far better than a single ingredient ever could.

Understanding the Adaptogen Spectrum

Each mushroom brings something different to the table.

Reishi is often thought of as the great balancer. Traditionally used to support immune health and promote calm during times of stress, it is closely tied to nervous system support and long-term resilience.

Lion’s Mane supports the mind. Traditionally used to promote cognitive health and mental clarity, it helps with focus and brain function without feeling stimulating.

Cordyceps is associated with vitality and endurance. Traditionally used to support energy and stamina, it helps sustain performance rather than deliver quick bursts.

Chaga is rich in naturally occurring antioxidants and traditionally used to support overall vitality. Its benefits are quieter and more foundational, supporting the body over time.

Agaricus, Maitake, and Shiitake are traditionally used to support the body’s natural defenses and overall immune health. Together, they create a steady base that supports the more adaptive qualities of mushrooms like Reishi and Cordyceps.

Taken together, these mushrooms do not compete with one another. They fill different roles, supporting the body as a whole rather than chasing one specific outcome.

Why Synergy Matters More Than Singles

Wellness culture loves a hero ingredient. But traditional systems have always emphasized combination for a reason.

The body does not operate in silos. Supporting energy without supporting immunity, or focus without supporting the nervous system, only addresses part of the picture. Blended formulations allow multiple systems to be supported at once, without pushing the body too far in any direction.

Rather than asking one mushroom to do everything, Anima Mundi Adaptogenic Powder is built around range. Reishi and Agaricus support balance and the body’s natural defenses during periods of stress. Lion’s Mane brings clarity and cognitive support, while Cordyceps supports energy and endurance without overstimulation. Chaga contributes long-term antioxidant support and vitality, and Maitake and Shiitake provide a grounding layer of immune support that helps tie everything together. Heirloom cacao adds antioxidant richness and cardiovascular support while making the blend easy to enjoy daily. Together, these ingredients work across systems, reflecting the idea that real resilience comes from coverage, not intensity.

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Last Minute Amazon Gifts That Still Feel Thoughtful

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.

Because great gifts are not about planning ahead. They are about choosing well.

We have all been there. The calendar sneaks up. The shipping window is closing. And suddenly you are searching for something that feels intentional, elevated, and genuinely useful not just another filler gift. The good news is Amazon has quietly become a treasure trove for wellness forward, design minded, feel good finds that arrive fast and still feel considered.

Below, our edit of last minute gifts that feel like you really thought this through. From better sleep to better coffee to better skin days ahead.

Last Minute Amazon Picks

Hatch Restore 3 Sunrise Alarm Clock
For the person who wants better mornings and calmer nights

This is not your average alarm clock. Hatch Restore 3 is more like a full wind down and wake up ritual wrapped into one beautifully designed bedside essential. It helps create a screen free bedtime routine with soft lighting and soothing sounds, then gently wakes you up with a sunrise effect that feels far kinder than a blaring alarm. Think better sleep habits, deeper rest, and mornings that actually feel calm. A gift that quietly upgrades daily life.

Bialetti Moka Express
For the romantic who believes coffee is a ritual

An icon for a reason. The Bialetti Moka Express has been making espresso on stovetops since 1933 and it still feels timeless. This is the kind of gift that instantly transports you to a slow Italian morning, even if you are very much at home. Simple, beautiful, and endlessly charming. Perfect for coffee lovers, travelers at heart, or anyone who appreciates objects with soul.

medicube AGE R Booster Pro
For the skincare obsessed friend chasing glass skin

This sleek little wand is a favorite for good reason. It helps boost absorption, enhance glow, and support firmer looking skin all without needing special gels or complicated steps.

Our Place Titanium Mini Always Pan Pro
For the one who loves cooking but hates clutter

This mini version of the cult favorite Always Pan is compact, gorgeous, and surprisingly versatile. It is perfect for small kitchens, solo meals, or anyone who appreciates smart design that earns its place on the stovetop. Titanium means durability, easy cleanup, and everyday elegance. It is one of those gifts that feels modern, practical, and cool all at once.

ILIA The Beauty of Clean Makeup Set
For the beauty lover who wants effortless polish

This set delivers everything we love about ILIA in one thoughtful bundle. A cult favorite mascara, a lip sketch that doubles as liner and lipstick, and a creamy multi stick for cheeks and lips. Clean, wearable shades that make getting ready feel easy and elevated. A great option when you want to gift makeup without overthinking it.

PMD Clean Smart Facial Cleansing Device
For better skin days with less effort

PMD Clean uses gentle sonic vibrations and ultra hygienic silicone to deeply cleanse while also offering an anti aging massage on the flip side. It works for all skin types, never needs replacement heads, and feels like a small luxury that fits seamlessly into any routine. A solid gift for anyone who loves skincare but prefers low maintenance tools.

Oura Ring 4 Ceramic
For the wellness curious who love data with style

The Oura Ring is one of those gifts that feels futuristic and personal at the same time. It tracks sleep, readiness, stress, activity, and more while looking like a sleek piece of jewelry. The ceramic version adds a refined touch with soft neutral tones that work with any style.

Don’t Believe Everything You Think
For the friend who loves a mindset reset

This book is a gentle but powerful reminder that not every thought deserves your attention. It explores how suffering is often created by our thinking and how peace can exist even when life feels uncertain. Thought provoking, comforting, and easy to digest.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
For the home barista ready to level up

This is the espresso machine that turns kitchens into cafes. With a built in grinder, precise temperature control, and a steam wand for latte art moments, it makes truly great coffee accessible at home. It is a bigger gift, but one that pays off every single morning. Ideal for coffee lovers who appreciate both ritual and results.

MIKO Foot Massager Machine
For the person who is always on their feet

This is the ultimate end of day indulgence. Deep kneading, compression, heat, and rolling massage all designed to melt tension and support circulation. The machine feels incredibly satisfying after long days, workouts, or travel. A surprisingly thoughtful gift that says rest is not optional.

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How Jennifer Meyer Styles Her Signature Symbols And How You Can Too

Jennifer Meyer’s jewelry has a way of feeling instantly familiar and deeply personal all at once. Her signature symbols including hearts, leaves, evil eyes, and good luck charms have become modern icons, worn by everyone from Hollywood stylists to women building their everyday stack with intention.

What makes her pieces resonate is not just how they look, but how they are worn. Effortlessly layered, quietly meaningful, and always reflective of where you are in life.

In this conversation, Jennifer shares how she styles her signature symbols, the pieces she is most drawn to right now, and her simple philosophy for creating a jewelry stack that feels personal, intuitive, and uniquely yours.

Your hearts, leaves, and protective charms have become modern icons. Is there a symbol you are especially drawn to in this season of your life, and what about it resonates with you
It is very hard to pick just one. I am a big believer in the power of symbolism. Right now I am especially drawn to the leaf. Leaves are such a beautiful symbol of growth and change, and as we celebrate twenty years of the brand, it feels very meaningful. A leaf reminds me that life is always evolving and that there is beauty in transformation. It represents embracing new seasons, both personally and creatively, while staying rooted in what matters most.

When you design a new symbol or charm, what comes first: the meaning, the shape, or the emotion behind it
I always start with meaning. I am drawn to symbols that have a deep purpose, something that protects, inspires, or reminds you of someone you love or a moment in time. From there I shape it into something that feels wearable every day. My goal is always to create pieces that feel meaningful and also fit naturally into your daily life.

Your pieces have appeared in everything from Spider Man 3 to The Break Up to the viral nameplate necklace on Nobody Wants This. When you designed those pieces originally, what was your creative approach
Every piece has its own creative path. Some begin as a quick sketch and others start as a small spark of an idea. Seeing someone wear my jewelry and having it appear in one of those major pop culture moments is the best feeling. It never gets old.

You are known for effortless layering. What is your rule of thumb for mixing chains, charms, and lengths
I love mixing different lengths, charms, and colors. My rule is simple. Have fun and do not overthink it. Let each piece tell its own story but make sure they all speak the same visual language. It is really about balance, proportions, and wearing what feels natural to you.

What is the easiest way for someone to start layering if they feel unsure or intimidated
Start with one meaningful piece and build from there. Keep it simple at first and let the layers grow naturally. Jewelry should feel effortless and personal. The more you wear it and play with combinations, the more intuitive it becomes.

What does your everyday jewelry stack look like right now, from necklaces to rings
I love pieces that move easily from day to night. I am always wearing my Good Luck Necklace. I like mixing it with tennis necklaces and rotating in some of my favorite symbols such as the leaf, the evil eye, and the heart. For rings, I gravitate toward the inlay heart, the open evil eye, and stacked graduated rings. For earrings, I often wear big hoops and lately I have been pairing them with elongated teardrop huggies. Every piece feels personal, meaningful, and effortless. It is all about creating a stack that feels like you.

What is your advice for mixing colorful stones with symbolic charms in a way that feels elevated
I love mixing colors and charms. Start with one colorful piece that is meaningful to you. It could be your birthstone or simply a color you love. Some of my favorite stones are diamond, turquoise, emerald, and lapis. Then layer in your symbolic charms, playing with length and texture to create depth. The goal is for the look to feel effortless, elevated, and personal.

For someone who is just starting a jewelry collection, which signature symbol makes the perfect first piece
The Good Luck Necklace is a wonderful place to start because it feels both timeless and personal. It features seven symbols, each with its own meaning including protection, love, hope, and peace. There are versions that are delicate and others that are slightly bolder, so it works beautifully on its own and also layered.

Is there a styling tip that instantly elevates someone’s everyday jewelry look
Absolutely. Mix your lengths. Layering instantly elevates a look. But here is what I really believe. If you love how it looks, trust it. Confidence is always the best styling tip.

What is the one piece you always pack when you travel, no matter what
Big gold hoops. They take you from the beach to daytime to night and everything in between.

To discover more of Jennifer Meyer’s signature symbols and explore her latest collections, visit jennifermeyer.com

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The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Looking More Lifted and Contoured in Minutes

Let’s be honest. One of my least favorite parts of getting older is waking up and wondering who that puffy, tired stranger is staring back at me in the mirror. And I have always been a puffy-in-the-morning person. Long flight? Puffy. Stayed up too late? Puffy. Accidentally inhaled an entire serving of spicy noodles before bed? Puffy. As time goes on, my under eyes are fully committed to the drama. Some mornings, no amount of concealer or color corrector can hide the dark circles, the shadows or the general why does my face look like this energy.

For the longest time, the only thing that really helped was gua sha. It works beautifully, especially if you are consistent. It supports lymphatic drainage and helps move stagnant fluid that leads to puffiness. But gua sha is very technique based and it is a true ritual. Meanwhile, my lifestyle does not always allow for peaceful, slow strokes and a quiet moment with my bathroom mirror.

Then I added a red light mask into my routine and my skin was instantly happier. Fewer tired-looking  mornings, more brightness, more even tone. So naturally, my lazy girl brain asked the important question. What if I could combine the depuffing magic of gua sha with the science of red light in one step. That is when I found the Red Light Face Wand. My Roman Empire.

Why the Wand Works

This wand is the overachiever of skincare devices. It brings together red light at 660 nanometers, near infrared at 850 nanometers, heat, sonic vibration and biomicroelectronics. Everything is engineered to work on tone, puffiness, circulation, fine lines and that overall lifted look we chase in the mornings.

Where gua sha relies on manual technique and pressure, a red light wand works with technology. Instead of dragging or pulling the skin, it glides gently as the warmth and vibration encourage local lymphatic flow. The red light energizes the surface, while near infrared penetrates more deeply and works on a cellular level to support healthy cellular metabolism, boost microcirculation and calm redness. They are completely different experiences and both have their place, but the wand is the one that fits into real life mornings and any moment when you want results without effort.

The heat helps make the skin feel softer. The swiping motion with added sonic vibration helps relieve jaw and facial tension. The light supports radiance and softens signs of fatigue. Together, it feels like your face is slowly waking up and remembering what it is supposed to look like.

And the best part is the sheer convenience. No prep. No settings to figure out. No learning curve. You pick it up, glide it across your skin and let the device do the thinking. I love that it feels indulgent but also incredibly easy.

What I Noticed First

After the first few uses, I could see
+ softer skin
+ more uniform tone
+ a brighter, more radiant complexion
+ reduction in puffiness
+ more definition under the cheekbones
+ under eyes that looked less puffy

It holds a charge for days which is a dream. The warmth feels soothing. The vibration feels grounding. It is honestly one of the most relaxing things I do for myself in the morning.

Also, it is portable. You can use it at home, at your desk, in the car while waiting for mobile order pickup, on a flight, in a hotel room, or wherever you feel like your face needs encouragement.

My Morning Routine Lazy Girl Lifting 101

Here is exactly how I use it when my face refuses to cooperate.

Under the eyes
I start with gentle glides from the inner corner to the temple. This wakes things up fast and helps deflate that morning pillow face.

Cheekbones
I glide upward toward the hairline. This gives instant definition and a natural contour effect.

Jawline
I sweep from chin to ear. This helps relieve tension and gives a more defined jaw.

Smile lines and around the mouth
A few small upward strokes help soften lines and brighten the area.

Forehead
Slow movements upward. This helps lift and smooth the look of the skin, especially when my forehead decides to showcase last night’s stress dreams.

The whole routine takes three to five minutes. Basically the amount of time I spend wondering what I did in my sleep to wake up looking this puffy.

Why the Wand Now Lives in My Bag

It works. It is easy. It is soothing. It visibly lifts, smooths, brightens and reduces puffiness in a way that feels effortless. My skin looks more alive in the morning. My tone looks more even. My under eyes look less tragic. And everything just feels softer and healthier.

You get real results without needing to commit to a long ritual or remember complex steps.

If the red light mask is the skincare equivalent of booking a spa day, this wand is the friend who shows up at your doorstep with iced coffee and emotional support. You can use it anywhere and it always leaves your face better than it found it.

All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs. This story is brought to you in partnership with BON CHARGE From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers

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A Couscous Salad With Zero Rules and Maximum Flavor

This Couscous Salad with Herb Vinaigrette is what Chef Jeremy Sewall calls a “no rules salad,” and honestly, we get it. Warm or cold, packed with whatever veggies you’ve got, it’s the kind of throw-together dish that somehow feels comforting and elevated at the same time. The only real tip: dress your veggies before the couscous so everything stays perfectly textured.

Pulled from Sewall’s new cookbook Everyday Chef, this is the kind of effortless, feel good recipe we’ll be making on repeat.

Recipe

SERVES 4

1½ cups vegetable stock

Kosher salt

1 cup Israeli couscous

1 Roasted Red Pepper (page 224)

4 stalks broccoli rabe, blanched

1 cup medley cherry tomatoes, quartered

1 cup Cooked Chickpeas (page 230)

Freshly ground black pepper

About ½ cup Herb Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

½ cucumber, diced

½ cup crumbled feta

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable stock to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Stir in the couscous and simmer for 1 minute, then remove the pan from the heat. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let stand for 15 minutes. Remove the lid and drain off any excess liquid. Spread couscous on a baking sheet. With a fork, separate and fluff the pieces. Let cool.

Dice the roasted bell pepper. Chop the broccoli rabe into small pieces. Place both in a mixing bowl along with the tomatoes and chickpeas and season with salt and pepper. Add ½ cup of the vinaigrette and toss to combine. Add the couscous and toss to combine. Taste and add more vinaigrette if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with the cucumber and feta.

Herb Vinaigrette 

MAKES ABOUT 1¼ CUPS

½ cup flat-leaf parsley leaves

½ cup basil, cilantro, and mint leaves

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a jar or other container, combine the herbs, mustard, honey, vinegar, and olive oil. Use an immersion blender to puree and combine. Season with salt and pepper. Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.

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Call In Protection, Love, Intuition, Prosperity, and Creativity with Five Sacred Candles

There are seasons in life when you can feel something shifting beneath the surface. You want more clarity, more grounding, a spark of inspiration, or a softening of the heart. Maybe you’re seeking reassurance that you’re moving in the right direction. And somehow, lighting a candle always feels like the right place to begin.

Long before candles were decorative, they were ritualistic. They guided prayers, marked thresholds, honored transitions, and connected the living with the unseen. 

Introducing the Anima Mundi Ritual Candle Collection

Now imagine that same ancient instinct channeled into a candle made with devotion, lineage, and purpose. That’s what makes Anima Mundi’s new Ritual Candle Collection so special.

Their collaboration with Crescent and Craft feels like a natural expansion of that magic. Adriana describes candle pouring as “an inheritance, a lineage passed down through the elementals,” and you can feel that devotion in each one. These candles are hand poured with organic beeswax and soy wax, colored with natural dyes, and infused with herbs chosen for their energetic purpose.

Inspired by the Mesoamerican rite of velación where the flame is treated as an oracle each candle feels alive. A companion. A small portal. A living prayer designed to help you call in whatever your spirit is quietly seeking.

Protection, Self love, Intuition, Prosperity, and Creativity.  Five intentions. Five flames. Five ways to shift the energy around you and within you.

How to Call In Each Intention

INTUITION RITUAL CANDLE
Dream work and third eye awakening

This candle awakens the inner sight that lives beneath thought. It bridges worlds, calls spirit near, and creates the conditions for dreams to speak in their own language. It is a flame for the in between, where intuition rises quietly and clearly.

How to work with it
Light this candle when you’re ready to enter the liminal space, the soft edge between waking and dreaming where symbols shimmer and guidance feels close. Let your gaze rest on the flame as your breath deepens and the mind loosens its grip.

Use it before meditation, during journaling, or as you drift toward sleep. Let the glow open pathways of perception and invite subtle messages forward. Do not chase meaning. Simply notice what moves. This candle teaches you to trust the glimmer before the clarity arrives. SHOP HERE

SELF LOVE RITUAL CANDLE
Heart healing and inner softening

This candle nurtures the heart, softens the spirit, and renews confidence. It reminds you that healing isn’t about fixing but about remembering the rhythm of your own warmth. It is a tender invitation to come home to yourself, again and again.

How to work with it
Light this flame on days when your heart feels heavy or tender, or when you simply want to reconnect with your own gentleness. Sit quietly beside it and imagine your breath warming your chest like a small inner sunrise.

Let the glow soften you from the inside out. Allow it to renew your sense of worthiness and open space for self compassion. Every time the wick ignites, think of it as an act of devotion your heart asking to be tended with kindness. SHOP HERE

PROSPERITY RITUAL CANDLE
Manifestation and abundance

This candle calls in prosperity and nourishes the flow of life. It magnetizes growth, joy, and expansion, reminding you that true wealth is cyclical and born of gratitude, generosity, and trust in your own unfolding.

How to work with it
Light this candle as a clear invitation for abundance in all its forms energy, opportunity, creativity, financial ease, and grounded support. Name what you’re calling in and feel your intention settle into the flame.

Imagine your desires rooting and sprouting like seeds warmed by sunlight. With every flicker, feel pathways opening and momentum building. Use this candle when you want to embrace expansion or align with a more generous flow in your life. SHOP HERE

PROTECTION RITUAL CANDLE
Shadow cleansing and energetic shielding

This candle protects, clears, and harmonizes. It seals the aura, fortifies the spirit, and holds space for you to feel grounded and safe. Its energy reminds you that true protection begins with presence and a clear return to yourself.

How to work with it
Light this candle when you need to cleanse your space or reclaim your center. Sit with the flame and imagine it dissolving the static around you: the heaviness, the noise, the tension that isn’t yours to hold.

Let the glow form a soft boundary around your energy field. Use it during transitions, after emotional overwhelm, or anytime you want to feel anchored and held. The flame acts like a quiet guardian, guiding you back to steadiness. SHOP HERE

CREATIVITY RITUAL CANDLE
Inspiration and flow state

This candle ignites creativity, revives the spirit, and awakens the luminous spark that turns ideas into form. It honors the wild current of creation, the pulse inside you that is always ready to rise again.

How to work with it
Light this candle whenever you want to begin whether it’s a project, a dream, or simply the act of opening yourself to inspiration. Sit with the flame for a moment and feel the small inner shift the warmth, the curiosity, the spark.

Let the candle guide you into flow. Start somewhere small a line, a sketch, a new idea. Allow the glow to energize your spirit and move you into creation with ease. Use it anytime you want to reignite your inner fire. SHOP HERE

A Light to Carry Forward
Ritual candles are not shortcuts or instant spells. They are companions in transformation, holding space for your intentions to take shape. Each flame offers a moment to pause, breathe, and realign with what you are calling in.

Light them with presence. Light them with curiosity. Light them as an offering to the part of you that is ready to shift, soften, or expand. The ritual continues long after the wick goes dark the work now lives in you.

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2025 The Chalkboard Mag Holiday Guide: Fashion Edition

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The holidays have a way of making even the simplest outfit feel special. Maybe it is the gatherings, maybe it is the glow of the season, but suddenly we all want pieces that make getting dressed effortless and elevated. This year’s lineup includes trousers that create instant polish, ballet flats that work with everything, the cashmere everyone reaches for first, a leather jacket with serious presence, a tote that never quits, and a piece of jewelry Taylor Swift has worn that adds just the right amount of conversation worthy shine.

Gwyn Blake Trouser
goop
These trousers do that magical thing where you put them on and instantly look like you planned your outfit. The mid-rise is comfortable, the wide legs bring soft, tailored movement, and the cuffed hem adds a refined, polished feel. The pleats give structure in a flattering way, and the slant pockets keep everything relaxed but elevated. They are your go to when you want easy sophistication without thinking too hard. SHOP HERE

Classic Easy Zipper Tote
Cuyana
The tote everyone secretly wishes they had. This Italian leather carryall is lightweight, spacious, and quietly luxurious. The hidden zipper makes it feel polished and intentional, while the roomy interior fits a sixteen inch laptop, your pilates outfit, snacks, chargers, and everything else life demands. It works for errands, office days, travel, and gifting. The definition of an everyday upgrade. SHOP HERE

Elastic Ballet Slipper in Leather
The Row
The ultimate quiet luxury flat. Made in Italy from buttery calfskin, these slippers are soft, simple, and effortlessly chic. The slender elastic strap adds a touch of ballet inspired elegance without taking away from the clean, minimal design. They work with trousers, slip skirts, denim, and airport outfits alike. A perfect choice for someone who loves timeless, understated style. SHOP HERE

Bateman Cropped Leather Jacket
Veronica Beard
If you want a piece that turns whatever you are wearing into a full look, this is the jacket. Butter soft lambskin, a cool cropped silhouette, an adjustable hem, and a funnel neck that instantly adds presence. It strikes the ideal balance between modern and classic. Throw it over denim or a dress and it just works every time. SHOP HERE

Links Iconic Chain Ring
Kimitake Jewelry
A ring with meaning and a little star powered charm. Worn by Taylor Swift and beloved for its symbolic chain design, it carries a sweet message about connection. The H at the center stands for Human which gives it emotional depth without feeling heavy. The diamonds add subtle sparkle that feels refined and timeless. It is a beautiful, thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates pieces with intention. SHOP HERE

Flynn Cashmere Sweater
Jenni Kayne
The cashmere sweater everyone eventually ends up living in. Lightweight yet luxe, relaxed yet polished, classic yet never boring. The v neck gives it a refined silhouette while the softness makes it impossible to take off. Style it with trousers, slip skirts, or your favorite travel outfit. If you want a gift that will absolutely get worn on repeat, this is it. SHOP HERE

Silk Pleat Back Shirt
Another Tomorrow
A modern silk shirt that elevates absolutely everything. Oversized in a way that feels intentional, with a stunning pleated back that moves beautifully. Crafted from peace silk which supports both animal welfare and rural artisans, it is as thoughtful as it is chic. Wear it loose, tucked, or layered. It never misses and always looks expensive. SHOP HERE

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2025 The Holiday Guide: Kitchen Edition

There are two types of gifts during the holidays. The ones people politely “aww thank you” and stash in a closet, and the ones they actually use every single day. This guide is the second kind. Think: the blender that looks gorgeous on your counter, the olive oil trio everyone secretly hopes someone gifts them, the juicer that finally makes mornings easier, the microwave dishes we’ve been using weekly, and the soft serve machine that turns your kitchen into a fun little dessert bar.

If they cook, host or simply eat, they will love something on this list. 

Beast Mighty 850 Plus
If you’re going to leave a blender out on your counter, it better be pretty. Beast understood the assignment. This compact powerhouse blends like a dream but looks more like a piece of modern design than an appliance. Smoothies, dips, cocktails, whatever you’re in the mood for, it handles it all.

And the blend sip go thing? Life changing. Less cleanup, more sipping. SHOP HERE

Flamingo Estate Olive Oil Trio
There is not a single person alive who wouldn’t be thrilled to receive something from Flamingo Estate. This trio feels like gifting someone their culinary personality: bright, peppery, garlicky, a little spicy, and very chic.

Each bottle has serious range. Drizzle it on roasted veggies, swirl it into soups, or keep it on the table just to feel like an off duty chef. It’s a flavor trip and a very good time. SHOP HERE

Our Place Wonder Oven Pro
This is the moment your oven officially gets jealous. The Wonder Oven Pro somehow does eight cooking functions in one compact, very attractive little box. It air fries, bakes, roasts, toasts and even proofs dough if you’re in a cozy bread making era.

It heats up fast, cooks evenly and is super intuitive to use which is exactly what we need when the holidays get chaotic. SHOP HERE

Kuvings Hands Free Slow Juicer AUTO10 Plus
For anyone who has ever said “I want to juice more but I don’t have the patience,” this is the answer. The AUTO10 Plus basically juices for you. You load the hopper, press the button and go about your morning while it chops and juices everything inside.

It’s shockingly easy to clean (truly rare in juicer land) and handles greens, fruits, veggies, nut milks and even sorbets. Morning routines just got an upgrade. SHOP HERE

Anyday 8 Piece Glass Square Dish Set
We’ve been using Anyday dishes weekly in our kitchen and now cannot imagine life without them. They cook, reheat and store food beautifully, and yes, the frosted glass makes your leftovers look weirdly photogenic.

They’re fully microwave safe including the metal on the lid which still surprises guests every time. They stack neatly, clean easily and basically become your go to for everything from steaming veggies to baking a quick casserole. SHOP HERE

Ninja CREAMi Scoop and Swirl
The CREAMi is pure fun. It’s ice cream night without leaving the house, and soft serve whenever the mood strikes. With thirteen programs and six soft serve settings, you can go from a high protein swirl to a decadent pint in seconds.

The soft serve handle makes it feel like old school ice cream shop energy which is honestly reason enough to get one. SHOP HERE

Year and Day The Serving Set
This trio instantly elevates any table. Even if you’re serving store bought pasta, these pieces make everything look intentional and pulled together. Year and Day nails that modern, effortless aesthetic that feels special without trying too hard.

Perfect for hosts, homebodies and anyone who loves a beautifully set table. SHOP NOW

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