Lights, Camera, Mushrooms: An Actress’s Journey to Wellness Entrepreneurship

When it comes to wellness supplements, the market is brimming with mushroom-centered products promising everything from boosted energy to radiant skin. With so many options, it can be daunting to figure out which ones are genuinely beneficial. That's why we're thrilled when a personal story brings authenticity to a brand's creation. Enter Maria Camila Giraldo, the Colombian-born actress you've seen in hit shows like "Queen of the South" and Netflix’s “Griselda”.

Maria's journey into wellness led her to create Fungiments, a line of mushroom-centered capsules and gummies designed to address specific health needs. Each supplement is meticulously formulated with functional ingredients and adaptogens, ensuring consumers can maximize their fun feelings—whether it's energy, good sleep, great digestion, or glowing skin.

What sets Fungiments apart is its unwavering commitment to cleanliness and purity, prioritizing top-notch ingredients to support your well-being. We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Maria about how she brought Fungiments to life and the personal story behind these amazing supplements.

Can you walk us through the journey from your initial idea to the launch of Fungiments?

I knew that I knew that from the beginning that I wanted it to feel like a fun brand – not just another wellness brand. I wanted to be able to carry these supplements with me everywhere. And actually we started with these little tiny bottles but now that we're in retail, they just didn't make any sense. So we changed our packaging, we changed everything. And our first slogan was ‘Claim your powers’ because when I was going through this concussion recovery, I realized that the mushroom supplements were allowing me to do exactly that  – they were allowing me to claim my powers. Now our slogan is ‘Life's more fun when you have super powers’. So those are two main changes. And then throughout it all, we've had different kinds of iterations in our label, right? Now I love our label. We added some sparkles, some like stars and, and some fun combinations of colors. They all pop and they're very vibrant. 

Can you share the story behind the name "Fungiments" and what it represents?

It's Fungi + supplements combined. We were looking to get an amazing name and reviewed so many iterations but everything felt cheesy. And then one day I was on the phone with one of my close friends and I was just sharing with her all the fun names and I was just like I wish it could look like something like a middle of a name in the middle of another one because I had a company in Colombia that we did something similar. So she said ‘fung’ and ‘supp’ out loud and Fungiments just clicked. 

How do you balance your acting career with running a supplement brand? Any tips for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Really, it's an integration, not a balance. I have to integrate one into the other. During my days, I block time for both of them because I love both, and I'm not going to stop doing either. They're both my passions and they fill me up every day with so much. So yeah, I wouldn't say it's a balance, it's an integration. That means I block time off when I'm not on set to do both: take some time to read scripts, review projects, and focus on acting, and then the same vice versa. When I'm acting on set, I make time to review emails and other projects. There's usually a lot of downtime on set, which really helps.

How does your background in acting influence your approach to marketing and branding Fungiments?

My background in acting influences our marketing and communication in many ways because I've been on all sides of the camera and various projects. I believe this experience allows me to understand how to innovate and get creative in the way we communicate this brand to the world. That's what we strive to do as much as possible—in the most fun, innovative, and creative ways. For example, right now we're creating a very exciting campaign that I can't discuss much. So please stay tuned, because there's something really cool coming up with some creators.

How do you recommend new users start incorporating Fungiments into their daily routine?

I think everything comes down to individual needs. We're not all the same, and my needs are not the same as someone else's. My needs are mostly in digestion and energy, but some people need a lot of help with sleep. So, I would recommend everyone to ask themselves a question: What do you need the most help with? Based on that, pick your first product, fall in love with it, then start incorporating others. We want to provide everyone with a baseline throughout their day so they can feel great all the time. They can have good sleep, be focused and concentrated, and enjoy good digestion and skin.

What sets Fungiments apart in terms of ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices?

So overall, a good baseline throughout it all is that our approach is fundamentally different in terms of ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices. Our ingredients are the most potent, high-quality ingredients. I'm very picky about that because when I was going through my concussion, I found mushroom supplements that my doctor recommended, but the formula was very expensive. So I said, "Okay, I want to look for other alternatives." I went to different pharmacies, grocery stores, and supermarkets, but I couldn't find something that had the same strength and was carefully sourced.

So, when I went out to start my own brand, I committed to making Fungiments’ formulas the best on the market. Yes, our ingredients are just very powerful. Other mushroom brands just have the mushroom by itself, and sure, you can take the mushroom. Mushrooms are beautiful, but you would have to wait at least 20 to 30 days to feel the desired effect with most other formulas. With ours, you feel the effect right away because we combine the best ingredients with the most efficacy, blending mushrooms with other adaptogens to enhance the targeted effects.

Can you explain the unique properties of some key mushrooms used in Fungiments and why they were chosen?

Fungiments has one SKU that we call Super Bouncy. It's a great product for focus, energy, and concentration because it contains Cordyceps mushrooms, ginseng, and green tea extract. Mark my words, there is going to be a rise in people's interest in Cordyceps because they are a magical, fantastic mushroom. They help us produce our own energy by enhancing the production of ATP, which is the way our cells receive energy. They are great for endurance and performance. This mushroom, in particular, is one of my favorites.

Can you tell us about the most surprising benefit you’ve experienced from using your own products?

My productivity with Super Bouncy skyrockets on the days I take it versus the days I don't. I moved Super Bouncy to the top of my desk because I need to take it every day, or I feel like my energy is falling, and I feel off. I take Super Bouncy and then Super Prune as well. I travel a lot and used to struggle with digestion and regularity, but with Super Prune, I don't anymore. I didn't like prunes, but I knew they were really good for helping you stay regular. Super Prune just does that for me—it's not like a harsh laxative. It's natural, it's herbs, and it just helps you stay regular.

How important is sustainability to the Fungiments brand, and how do you communicate this to your customers?

We believe, and this has been true since the beginning of the company, that mushrooms connect everything in the world. The root-like structure of mushrooms, called mycelium, is what connects everything in the world. It allows trees to communicate with each other and carries micronutrients. It is just this structure that connects everything. While we were doing the research and starting the brand, we noticed this and thought, oh, we have to do something for the planet. So for 2025, we have a big project to become net-zero plastic. This means all of our bottles and packaging will be fully recyclable, which is very exciting for us. This is something that we've had in the works for a really long time.

What’s the most unexpected benefit or reaction you’ve heard from someone using Fungiments?

The most unexpected example is a friend of mine who was struggling a lot with her mental health and depression. I do want to make it clear that none of these products can replace actual medications for mental health problems. They do help, but I recommend everyone to ask their doctors about it and find their best solution. But my friend said, "Hey, you know, I told you I've been struggling with a lot of down feelings and feeling very depressed lately, and though I'm not fully feeling better, I do feel that Super Bouncy gives me something that wakes me up and gives me a purpose. It gives me something like a kick in my back so I can have more energy." I thought that was very special.

Oh, I have another one. A girl found Super Bouncy organically—we didn't send it to her or anything. This college student created a video sharing her experience, saying she uses it to both study and party. I thought that was fantastic because that's literally the spirit of this product. I use this product to go out, when I'm feeling tired, or when I have jet lag. I use this product to focus and concentrate whenever I need a boost of energy. So when she said she used it to study and party in the same sentence, I thought it was just hilarious and fantastic.

What’s a fun fact about mushrooms that you think everyone should know?

I’d say there’s an incredible magic to mushrooms that we’re only beginning to uncover. Did you know mushrooms can communicate with each other through a network called mycelium, almost like a natural internet? Plus, each type of mushroom has unique benefits—some boost energy, while others can help with focus or even enhance your mood. It’s fascinating how these little fungi can cater to so many different needs!

The post Lights, Camera, Mushrooms: An Actress’s Journey to Wellness Entrepreneurship appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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I Tried Seed Health’s New Vaginal Probiotic—Here’s Why You Should Too

As a health and wellness product reviewer, I’ve seen Seed Health around frequently. Its sleek packaging and robust—and accurate—claims to improve gut health via its probiotic systems captivated me. (In fact, one of our editors previously covered the Daily Synbiotic at The Chalkboard Mag) But it wasn’t until Seed Health launched its VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic that I decided to give the brand a try to rebalance my microbiome and the rest of my system.

Despite summer being the time of rest and relaxation, my summer always ends up being rather hectic, so I challenged myself to stick to the regimen. How easy was it to keep up with the routine? How tangible of a difference would it make?

Another challenge for me was the label and product use itself. Frankly, I shy away from suppositories, assuming that “down there” takes care of itself well enough. Aside from my annual gynecologist checkup and keeping on top of my birth control prescription, I figure I don’t need to do much else. But the VS-01™ synbiotic proves me wrong. Here’s why:

The First Clinically Validated Vaginal Synbiotic with 3 proprietary strains of L.crispatus—the hero bacteria for vaginal health

VS-01™ is the first vaginal synbiotic clinically validated to rapidly establish an optimal vaginal microbiome dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus. Research performed by Dr. Jacques Ravel, an established microbiologist, demonstrated the role of this probiotic species in our vaginal microbiome—and realized that 90 percent of women lack dominance of this important bacteria. TL;DR: we should be looking for effective strains of L. crispatus for our best vaginal health.

What it boils down to is this: researchers know that the vaginal microbiome can be impacted by stress, sex, menstruation, diet, medications, and more. So what can we do to restore, balance and stabilize our vaginal microbiomes?

This is where Seed’s VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic steps up to the plate, promising to optimize the microbiome with three proprietary L. crispatus strains. A nutrient complex creates the right environment for each strain of protective bacteria to thrive. L. crispatus can protect your vagina from pH disruptions and imbalances.

As for me, I’m pretty celibate nowadays, and haven’t menstruated since receiving a hormonal birth control implant. But my stress and diet are always fluctuating, so I was curious how VS-01™ would assist with any irregular rhythms—especially during summer, when my routine is anything but established. Still, I was nervous about having to insert the vaginal tablets up there, so wasn’t sure if it’d actually end up being part of my routine.

The science behind the product and clinical testing soothed me. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (bless), 90% of participants achieved an optimal vaginal microbiome within only 21 days of use. And crucially? 100 percent of participants maintained an optimal vaginal pH. (Buh-bye, imbalances.)

How It Works and What It Is

There are two stages to your VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic system. First, you undergo a 1-month reset to establish an optimal vaginal microbiome. Second, you take a two-tablet monthly protocol to maintain your results. The welcome kit includes your first two months and is $99.99, while the second month is $39.99. Considering the regimen’s proactive nature, it definitely feels worth the price thanks to saving the cost, discomfort, and hassle of any vaginal, uh, disruptions. (Seriously, is there anything worse than running to the drugstore for a down-there problem?)

Instead of targeting the symptoms, you’re targeting the source. You may even be eligible for HSA or FSA coverage at checkout; check with your provider to ask.

The first month includes six vaginal tablets—the Reset protocol—and you should stick as closely to the prescribed schedule as possible.

The second month is the Sustain protocol—just two vaginal tablets for maintenance.

It’s non-toxic, non-irritating, and free of all the bad stuff (including PFAs, preservatives, parabens, BPAs, phthalates, fragrances, dyes, and more.) Seed does note that VS-01™ may not be optimized for women who experience natural dryness, as the product relies on your natural lubrication to work.

Similarly, Seed recommends that you don’t undergo your VS-01™ routine while menstruating heavily. Pick days when you’re not on your period (or it’s really light!)

My Experience Using VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic

Using VS-01™ is very similar to inserting a tampon, which put me at ease. You simply load the tablet into one of the included applicators, press to your entrance, and push the inner tube to release it. Dispose normally (but don’t recycle—the applicator is considered a medical device and thus can’t go through that system.)

It feels a little weird to walk and perform activities as normal, because the tablet takes up to 12 hours to dissolve—using your natural lubrication, as mentioned. Similarly, you may not want to hit up your partner or send that late-night text, because you probably shouldn’t be sexually active until it’s fully dissolved.

The Final Verdict

I was admittedly skeptical of the brand’s first non-gut-related launch, but I think in this case that being proactive is the name of the game. Summer normally ushers in a host of issues and discomforts thanks to me practically living in a swimsuit the entire time, so avoiding any sort of vaginal health disruptions was a relief and a time-saver.

My main worry was not being able to stick to the routine, but I actually found the VS-01™ regimen to be really easy to remember (and relatively non-invasive compared to other health and wellness supplements—surprising considering its methodology.) The science backs it up profoundly, and I’m excited to see where Seed Health goes in regards to closing critical gaps in womens’ healthcare.

All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another 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 Seed Health. From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers.

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Sommelier-Crafted Coffee Concentrate, Clean SPF Spray Mist + Skin-Brightening Enzymes: 5 Things Our Editors Are Loving This Week

OUR WEEKLY BREAKDOWN of everything in our editors’ pantries, go-bags, bathroom cabinets, and wellness spaces that we’re obsessing over at the moment.

TIME-LINE MITOPURE SOFTGELS
It’s okay if you haven’t heard of Urolithin A. It’s okay, we hadn’t either. Until we came across Time-Line did we start to look a little deeper into the mitochondria enhancer that is turning back the clock on cellular aging. 

Time-Line’s Mitopure Softgels pack a serious punch with their proprietary Mitopure, the first and only clinically tested, highly pure Urolithin A postbiotic that delivers 6X more Urolithin A than a glass of pomegranate juice (which houses this powerhouse metabolite). Just two capsules a day delivers the recommended dose of Urolithin A, which cleans up cellular waste for better focus, performance, recovery, skin, and aging overall. We also love to have Mitopure in powder form since it’s super easy to incorporate into our daily smoothies.

BOTNIA ESSENTIAL ENZYMES
Can skincare be farm-to-table? If so, Botnia is leading the down-to-earth charge. From the packaging to the ingredient sourcing, everything Botnia does is sustainably minded and eco-friendly (they even grow their own plants at their own micro-farm). The result is potent, effective, and incredibly gentle skincare.

We’ve been obsessing over their Essential Enzymes, which somehow serves as both a brightening cleanser and a gently exfoliating, once-a-week mask. Powered by pomegranate, juniper, and calendula, this do-it-all cream works to regulate the skin’s lymphatic system and prevent inflammaging that occurs from environmental stressors. Because of our newfound love for Botnia, we’re excited to dive in a little deeper into some of their other products like their Rose Water Toner and Hydrating Serum.

SOLARA GOOD KARMA DRY OIL MINERAL SPF 30
A high-quality SPF is actually really hard to find. We’re constantly on the lookout for a clean sunscreen that is easily absorbable, doesn’t contain carcinogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and supports daily skin health no matter what. Solara is that “It Girl.” 

We’ve tried out their other face and body products, but recently, we were most impressed by their newest Dry Oil Mineral SPF (which we will be packing on our upcoming summer vacations FYI). This super absorbable, non-ghost white formula is infused with antioxidant-rich, adaptogenic actives and nutrient-rich botanicals for hydrated, vibrant, plump, and protected skin. It also relies on zinc oxide rather than a blend of zinc and titanium dioxide, which can potentially cause harm with long-term exposure. For us, this is the first in its class and the best.

YEAR & DAY THE OUTDOOR CORE SET
Year & Day is the minimalist California-meets-Europe tableware brand you need to “get into” immediately. Everything is designed in California and then all ceramics are made with locally sourced clay by artisans in Portugal, using a single-firing process that is better for the environment. 

Given that it’s still summer, and we’re going to keep living like it’s June until it’s September, we excitedly got to try Y&D’s Outdoor Core Set, which includes 16 pieces of plates and bowls of varying sizes, made from natural, plant-based materials that are dishwasher and microwave-safe (plastic-free, too!). They’re beautifully designed and perfect for any “let’s just have dinner outside tonight” fare.

KLOO CRAFT COFFEE CONCENTRATE
When Kloo’s Craft Coffee Concentrate landed on our front doorstep, we didn’t know if it was an art piece or a drinkable beverage. Kloo is the first coffee concentrate developed and produced by a Q Grader, which is essentially the equivalent to a coffee sommelier.

Unlike the majority of coffee concentrates you’ll find in the supermarket, Kloo prides itself on a careful, in-house roasting process that produces small batches of concentrate for optimal flavor and quality (that means no preservatives). One bottle is the equivalent to 12 cups of coffee, coming in four distinct flavor profiles fromColombia, Kenya, Guatemala, and Ethiopia. While the flavors are stand-out, one thing we love the most about Kloo is that they only rely on simple, clean ingredients that keep energy levels sustained all day long sans crash. Enjoy hot or iced!

The post Sommelier-Crafted Coffee Concentrate, Clean SPF Spray Mist + Skin-Brightening Enzymes: 5 Things Our Editors Are Loving This Week appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Manifest at highest levels with the 8/8 Lion’s Gate

Each year, the astrological Lion’s Gate creates a powerful portal of abundance and manifesting. Starting in late July and continuing until mid-August, this energy peaks on the auspicious 8/8.

Sia-Lanu Estrella, manifestation expert and author of The Rainbow Tablets: Abundance and sacred co-creation, shares how to harness the Lions’ Gate energy to elevate your life to the next level.

Why is Lion’s Gate a potent time for abundance?

Astrologically speaking, Lion’s Gate marks a special alignment of Sirius, Orion and Earth within the Leo sun sign. It creates a flow of cosmic energy that enables you to tap into higher frequencies and manifest with greater speed and ease. Think of it as a portal to higher-dimensional planes where abundance, magic and miracles are the natural state.

This is further amplified with the properties of the number eight bringing prosperity and success. Beyond the numerology, eight can also be thought of as the infinity symbol. This represents the pure abundance consciousness. It is an infinite flow of giving and receiving that can be harnessed through the highest form of manifesting: sacred co-creation.

With all this abundance energy available, will things just naturally fall into place during the Lion’s Gate? Not quite.

For some, this can feel like a time of upheaval. But when you know how to harness these portal energies and direct them, you surf the waves rather than getting sucked into the undertow. And Lion’s Gate 2024 offers a potent opportunity to manifest clarity, inspiration and abundance.

How to manifest at highest levels during Lion’s Gate

“When you zoom out and begin to perceive abundance and sacred co-creation as the fabric of the multiverse, you realise that abundance is at the core of your essence. You do not just ‘attract’ abundance or ‘have’ it. You are abundance. You are abundance in motion. Because you are the living, breathing embodiment and expression of sacred co-creation.”

– The Rainbow Tablets: Abundance and sacred co-creation

We’ve been told to think of manifesting as the law of attraction. Lion’s Gate is the perfect time to move beyond this and unlock the power of manifesting at higher levels. Below are four practices to take you from trying to manifest through attraction (‘pull’ energy), to actually being the creator of your reality (creation energy).

1. Commit to morning practice

Your manifesting is only as strong as your energy field, because you are the ‘transmission tower’ of all you are creating. This is not a time to move in autopilot or spread yourself thin. A daily morning practice will bring you back to your centre. This strengthens your energy field and focus, making it easier to tap into the available cosmic energies. To start, you can find the Rainbow Pyramid Sovereignty Practice here: www.sialanuestrella.com

2. Set your goals

Traditional goal setting is all about the outcome. But attachment and expectation actually block or limit manifestation. Instead, focus on the experience and feeling of that goal. For example, if you are manifesting abundance, don’t try to define it as a pay rise, new job, or a specific number. Give space for magic and miracles.

Think of the experience of abundance that most lights up your soul. Then go even bigger. Most people set goals from a place of limitation. In a ‘numbered’ sense, this might be an extra $5,000 or $10,000. But what would millions in abundance feel like? What would the experience of life be? Perhaps you desire ample abundance to buy your dream home outright, launch a new business, travel, and help family or community. Your passion will help you hold that frequency. And releasing defined or limited outcomes creates space for the highest possibilities to land.

3. Choose your embodiment

During portals like this, everything is amplified. Be conscious of your thoughts. Don’t let old fears, doubts or distractions play out. Instead, BE the embodiment of what you are manifesting. If you are creating greater abundance, health or success in a new venture, FEEL it as if it is already done. Write down these aspirations and every morning and night, breathe them into every cell in your body. This is more than a visualisation. With the breath and feeling, you are actually encoding that frequency into your physical vessel. And THINK like this future version of yourself. With the help of Lion’s Gate, you will merge with that future reality more quickly and effortlessly.

4. Anchor your vision on 8/8

People have been harnessing the Lion’s Gate energies for thousands of years, including ancient, enlightened civilisations. In modern life, we tend to be disconnected from our full cosmic nature. But ceremony is the gateway. It is how you tap into the gifts of the star realms and anchor your highest reality here on Earth. This unification of Earth and stars unlocks the power of sacred co-creation. You become the transmission tower of all that you are manifesting, and it is fully supported above and below.

How to create your 8/8 Lion’s Gate ceremony

Ceremony is any act of deep connection and focused intention. You want to anchor your intention on the Earth plane and charge it with the cosmic power of the 8/8 portal. Your ceremony could include singing, quiet meditation, dancing, drinking ceremonial cacao, or playing a musical instrument. Go with whatever feels good for you. But there are some aspects you might wish to include.

1. Come into your centre: Starting with the Rainbow Pyramid Sovereignty Practice will bring you into highest frequency and alignment.
2. Ask permission of the land: Everything is consciousness. Introduce yourself to the land and loving ancestors and ask permission to sit in ceremony there. If it feels good, proceed. If it doesn’t, find a new spot.
3. Offer a gift to the land: Gratitude elevates your frequency and opens your heart. Take a moment to offer your gratitude to the land for supporting and nourishing you in all that you are manifesting. This can be anything biodegradable that is also safe for animals, such as a shell, feather or organic food.
4. Anchor your intention: Take a second offering, such as a crystal. A small citrine, herkimer diamond or clear quartz is great for manifesting. Hold the crystal and breathe all that you are manifesting into every cell in your body. Then blow this intention into the crystal. Envision or sense the Lion’s Gate energies flowing in and amplifying it. Then dig a small hole, place the crystal into the Earth and cover it up. Finish by laying flowers to imprint the Lion’s Gate energies on this plane. Now your highest reality is anchored on Earth.

What happens next?

Working in sacred co-creation with Earth and star energies is a huge part of manifesting. But don’t forget the other part: aligned action. Most likely, you will have clarity about the tangible steps you need to take. If you don’t, listen to your intuition, inspiration and heart’s guidance. Then take action. Notice the synchronicities and ‘magic’ that unfold during the Lion’s Gate period and beyond. No doubt, you will see how quickly your life elevates.

You can find out more in The Rainbow Tablets: Abundance and sacred co-creation, available now on Amazon.

Wishing you a wonderful and abundant Lion’s Gate 2024!

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Rich in Life: The Intangible Aspects of True Wealth

True wealth isn't just about money and luxury; it’s about the intangible things that bring joy, fulfillment, and peace into our lives—our health, relationships, and personal growth. . Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh, a well-known holistic pediatrician, recently shared a post that really resonated with us. With his new book, "Parenting at Your Child's Pace," about to be released, Dr. Warsh shared some great insights on what true wealth really means.

In modern society, prosperity is frequently gauged through material possessions and financial accomplishments. It can be easy to overlook the genuine sources of richness. True wealth transcends mere monetary figures in our accounts or the dimensions of our residences; it encompasses the intangible facets of existence that bring us delight, contentment, and enduring joy. Let’s explore the core essence of affluence, sparked by a modest Instagram post I recently shared. This post underscored the significance of happy families, joyful children, sound bodies, homemade meals, flourishing gardens, love, and time.

Healthy Bodies
Health stands as one of the most precious forms of wealth. Without it, we cannot fully enjoy or appreciate life's offerings. Investing in our well-being through regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindful living yields returns far exceeding any financial investment. Robust physical health empowers us to engage in activities we love, spend quality time with loved ones, and approach each day with vigor and vitality. The adage "Health is wealth" resonates deeply, underscoring the necessity for self-care. Setting a foundation of health is the core principle of my book, Parenting at Your Child's Pace, which offers practical advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle for both parents and children.

Homemade Meals
There exists an intrinsic enrichment in partaking in home-cooked meals— they symbolize care-giving nourishment . Preparing and enjoying meals alongside family members and friends fosters bonds and memories that endure lifetimes. Home-cooked dishes are often more wholesome, enabling us to engage with ingredients intimately, and appreciate cooking processes deeply cultivating a profound reverence for our food. In a world where convenience frequently trumps quality, dedicating time to cook together represents a genuine luxury.

Flourishing Garden
A flourishing garden mirrors a vibrant life; embodying growth resilience and rewards reaped from diligent efforts. Nurturing a garden demands dedication, time investment and alignment with nature- all contributing significantly towards overall well-being. Witnessing plants thrive instills feelings of accomplishment and pleasure gardening offers respite from daily chaos; serving as space for relaxation. 

Love
Love and affection encapsulates genuine affluence. Love propels us towards self-improvement, generosity, cherishing those around us earnestly. Whether manifested through romantic partnerships, parental bonds, or friendship, love emerges as the potent force enlivening meaningful fulfilling existences. Unavailable for purchase or sale - love emerges from kindness, empathy and authentic interconnections.

Time
Arguably most precious resource of all - how we allocate time reflects our true values. Unlike material possessions, time is irreplaceable once expended. Making best possible use of available time constitutes the fundamental element leading to a rich fulfilling life.

True Wealth

True wealth is about the intangible aspects of life that bring us joy, connection, and fulfillment. It’s about prioritizing happy families, smiling children, healthy bodies, home-cooked meals, thriving gardens, love, and time. These elements create a life rich in experiences, relationships, and happiness. As we navigate the demands of modern life, let’s remember to cherish and cultivate these priceless treasures, for they are the true markers of a wealthy life.

For more insights and tips on nurturing these aspects of life, be sure to check out my book, Parenting at Your Child's Pace. It's filled with practical advice and heartfelt wisdom to help you create a rich and fulfilling family life.

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Journaling Has Endless Benefits—and Here’s All You Need to Start the Habit

Out of all activities and hobbies that have carried humanity through the ages, journaling is a timeless one. Whether you’re looking back on cherished memories or hoping to smooth out some worrisome mood swings by self-regulating, putting your thoughts to paper has plenty of benefits for both yourself and your loved ones.

For some, journaling can help streamline and organize thoughts, helping you solve your thorniest problems. Therapists even have specific formats they advise clients who get stuck in circular thought patterns to use, as “writing it all out” can help rewire the brain in productive ways.

For others, journaling is about sheer documentation. You can junk journal, gluing in mementos like ticket stubs and boarding passes, or get wordy and describe every moment and feeling in your day. Some scribblers have dreams of passing down their notebooks to children and loved ones, perhaps even addressing their notes to the intended recipient.

You can set goals, capture sensations, and preserve memories. So why don’t more people do it?

Many would-be journalers get stuck in the perfectionism aspect, feeling like they need elaborate prose and an hour a day to dedicate to the craft of it. You shouldn’t worry about your language quality or the structure of your notebook; each page and writer is different. Pick up a five-minute journal, choose a productivity planner to focus on goals and self-reflection, or even opt for a sketchbook to capture the visuals of a given moment. 

Whatever your preferred medium, journaling in whatever format boosts your wellness by reducing stress and unconsciously boosting problem-solving skills too. Externalizing particularly pesky thoughts can even have the added benefit of improving your sleep. 

Inspired? Start with any of the following. Aim for a singular sentence, sketch, or jot per day, and you’d be surprised by how quickly you fall into the habit.

THE FIVE MINUTE JOURNAL
If you find yourself claiming you’re “too busy,” consider the quintessential five-minute journal, seen all over wellness “clean girl” Instagram and TikTok posts. Five minutes of daily gratitude is proven to boost overall positivity, and this neatly laid out journal is easy to commit to. Each day has a thoughtful quote up top and room for three goals, three gratitudes, three daily affirmations, etc,. Fill in as much or as little as you’d like. You can pick it up to bookend the day at the beginning and end, or just use it to remember small tidbits as the days pass. This option is ideal for the minimalist.

RETTACY BLANK 2-PACK JOURNALS
The journals I opt for come in a two-pack, with a variety of color options. As an artist and a writer, I appreciate that the journals’ blank pages lend them some versatility; I can paste in flowers, draw, write, or make lists—whatever I need to get out of my brain. I like inky pens, and appreciate that its paper is relatively bleed-free. Its sturdy leather hardcover makes the journal itself feel durable too.

BIRD OF PARADISE PAPIER WELLNESS JOURNAL
If you’re looking specifically to nail down habits or give yourself some structure, opt for a topic-specific journal oriented around wellness, productivity, or similar. This gorgeous Papier pick is pretty enough to want to display on any side table—which will remind you to pick it up. (Visual cues are practically the easiest way to create a new habit.)

BAN.DO PRISM ROLLERBALL PENS
Of course, having the proper writing utensils is a crucial step too. The touch of journaling is just as important as its look or practice, because if it physically feels good, then it will start to mentally feel good too. This five-pack of metallic rollerball pens is sleek and polished enough to use for work but has that special pizzazz that might add to your journaling ritual. Plus, they’re even on sale.

FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI LINK 2 SMARTPHONE PRINTER
For the bullet journals and the visual sort (who are basically scrapbooking), a Polaroid-style mini printer might just be your new best friend. This Bluetooth-connected gadget can instantly print all your favorite smartphone snaps so your memories can instantly live alongside all your written-out thoughts. The reluctant journaler might love this trick too: kickstart your habit by writing out “captions” instead of formal journal entries, and see where your brain takes you. Oh, and this bundle even includes forty film exposures to get you started.

The post Journaling Has Endless Benefits—and Here’s All You Need to Start the Habit appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Your Exact Shopping List for a Full Week’s Worth of Activewear, from Lounging to Workouts

In the age of work-from-home, I live in activewear—like many. Gone are the days of wearing my yoga pants to actual yoga (although I do that too.) Instead, I have a favorite tank for hanging out on the couch, my go-to joggers for when I want to look good (but not like I’m trying too hard), and of course, a pickleball dress to really lean into it while on the court. Every sport, occasion, and mood seems to demand its own leisurely ‘fit.

It’s no surprise, either. Unlike other clothing, activewear is meant to be sweat-wicking, close to the body, yet loose enough to not inhibit movement. It’s built with comfort in mind above all else, and don’t we deserve that?

As a professional shopping writer, I’ve waded through dozens of bra tops, shorts, leggings, joggers, exercise dresses, and the like activewear. Some have won me over, and some have missed the mark. Whether you’re packing for a trip, planning your next buy (or wishlist), or simply looking for some new OOTDs, here’s a full seven days’ worth of my favorites. Read on for my top picks from brands like Vuori, Aerie, Nike, and more of the best activewear.

Monday

First, opt for this sporty-cool ‘fit that genuinely fits any occasion. What else is better to start off the week?

OFFLINE by Aerie Seamless High Neck Sports Bra | I wear this striped sports bra for just about every occasion. It’s shockingly versatile, with a sporty-cool aura I love to rock. It’s casual enough to wear to trivia (tried and tested), for a light workout, or just hanging around on a friend’s back porch. I’ve worn it out with funky ripped jeans to go dancing and to the bars, and love its subtle compressive qualities. I love it so much that I’ve bought it in multiple colorways.

OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me Xtra Yoga Pants | Keep the Aerie stretch going with these stretchy (had to) yoga pants that seriously hit and flatter every angle. For one, they make me look practically Photoshopped. For another, they’re actually comfortable. As a tall gal, I appreciate how long they are too.

Tuesday

Especially in summertime, sometimes you just need to strip it down to the essentials. Go for a classic, hardcore workout set that’ll get the job done, whether you’re lifting, walking, or just hanging out you need best activewear. You can layer up or wear as-is. Warning: once you try this combo, you’ll want to stock up.

Nike Women’s Swoosh Medium-Support Sports Bra | As a product reviewer, I’ve tried dozens of sports bras, but I gravitate towards the Nike sports bra as the OG's best activewear. Supportive, flattering, and available in some seriously gorgeous colors, I don’t notice this bra while I’m running or doing HIIT exercises (a major compliment.)

Nike Women’s Pro 3-Inch Shorts | Similarly, my stash of Nike spandex shorts keeps me going. I even wear them under dresses for security when at events or going out for some extra peace of mind. You can opt for matching shorts for an Olympic-worthy monochrome look, or just go with whatever waistband and fabric combination strikes your fancy.

Wednesday

Whether the temperature drops or you’re just feeling like bundling up, the next must-have in your repertoire is something layerable that flexes with every season.

Carbon38 Melt Jumpsuit | Carbon38 as a brand always bridges luxury and functionality in a highly appealing way. I’ve worn this one-piece in ski towns (layer with sweaters and boots) and in ninety-degree beach towns (just alone, with sneakers.) Its flattering V-neck and cozy fabric are bonuses.

Halfdays Pieper Fleece | Pair with a quarter-zip fleece for some softness. Bonus: it’s built with performance in mind by a skiwear and outdoors brand, so you can wear it on the trail in summer and the slopes in winter. (Or, you know, on a Zoom call in a coffee shop that’s gone a little too far on ramping up the A.C.)

Thursday

Relax into a jogger and tank set that still looks polished. At the end of your week, you want an outfit that practically feels like pajamas—but you’re in the final stretch.

Vuori Halo Performance Crop | This tank top is the most flattering of any I’ve ever worn. It has a built-in bra. Frankly, it accentuates any arm or shoulder muscles you might have too. Sizes go quickly, so you’ll want to act quickly if you see your size in stock.

Vuori Halo Essential Wideleg | The matching wideleg pants are soft to the touch. You’ll want to sleep, exercise, and socialize in them too.

Vuori Halo Essential Hoodie | Need an extra layer? Add the matching hoodie for a head-to-toe look.

Friday

An exercise dress can do double-duty for the weekend. I’ve gone out in this dress before thanks to its mini length and strappy top. Nobody’ll know, but its sweat-wicking properties and move-with-you fit are actually ideal for the dance floor.

Outdoor Voices Cross Back Dress | I practically live in Outdoor Voices exercise dresses on the weekends, and this open back adds extra flair. It’s available in black, navy, and lime—and they’re even all discounted for a limited time. Just add a denim jacket and earrings to dress it up if you so choose.

Saturday

Similarly, a body-hugging, basic white tank will be a compliment magnet every single time. Pair it with some colorful leggings for a go-to outfit.

Vitality Synergy V Tank | The unsung hero of my wardrobe, this ribbed, medium-compression shirt is available from sizes XS to 4XL. Hitting at the waistband, it’s an ideal length for wearing with jeans, skirts, or workout shorts to move in; plus, it looks seriously incredible with a summertime tan.

Girlfriend Collective Chateau Compressive High Rise Leggings | These compressive, high-rise leggings come in sixteen colorways ranging from a bright golden yellow to a deep army green. They’re even made from recycled water bottles, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Sunday

Sundays are for lazing, of course. Cue up the recovery goodies and hang out on the couch all day—we won’t tell, and rest is crucial to your performance throughout the next week too.

Daily Drills Cropped Sleeve Crew | This oversized, reversible tee is made of a thick French terry cotton that feels like your favorite sweatpants. 

Daily Drills Super Shorts | This summer, you’ll want a pair of sweat shorts in your regimen to go along with. They’re oversized, adjustable, and meant for lounging.

Daily Drills Cropped Zip Hoodie | Don’t forget a cropped zip hoodie you can wear with absolutely everything. Its boxy style makes any outfit look effortless but put-together.

Rinse and repeat (literally) for another full week of outfits.

The post Your Exact Shopping List for a Full Week’s Worth of Activewear, from Lounging to Workouts appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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