Finding the right products can improve your skin’s overall health in the long run. However, rather than just searching for surface-level effects, it’s also worth looking for ingredients that target damage at the cellular level.  Why Look for Skin Care Ingredients That Target Damage? The top skin care trends can change from time to time. However, looking for ingredients that target cellular damage is a lifelong goal that many should seek for themselves. The right choices can help prevent the negative impacts of sun exposure and environmental pollutants. These types of skin care ingredients should also tackle other internal factors, like aging. While it primarily ensures rejuvenated and youthful skin, you’d also be getting other emotional benefits like self-confidence and peace of mind.  Best Skin Care Ingredients for Your Health While classics like niacinamide and retinoids are on the list, there are several advanced components accompanying them. Check out the best next-generation skin care ingredients that target cellular damage.  1. Hemp Oil Hemp extract is a powerful tool that protects your health in more ways than one. Skin care is a surprising but reliable use, as its oils can penetrate the epidermal layers and provide anti-inflammatory power to keep the skin safe from infection. There are also antioxidative effects that can protect the skin from the effects of aging. You can look for hemp seed oil in cream moisturizers and other emulsifying products. While it does come micronized, a little goes a long way.  2. Niacinamide Niacinamide is a go-to skin care ingredient that even beginners may know of. It provides a brightening effect and helps with elasticity. This is possible because the ingredient can rebuild your skin cells following damage from UV rays and other factors. In addition to damage repair, the newer skin cells are shielded from environmental stressors like pollution and toxins. Niacinamide can be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or who reside in polluted areas.  3. Retinoid Some people believe that retinoids have gone out of style, but they are still as relevant as ever. They are best known for treating and preventing acne by triggering surface skin cells to turn over fast and produce collagen.  The faster turnover and collagen production can improve your skin tone and reduce signs of aging in the long run. You can choose specific types of retinoids based on the severity of your cellular damage and your overall skin care goals.  4. Glutathione Glutathione is an effective skin care ingredient that targets damage. This antioxidant can revitalize oxidized vitamin E to encourage healthy hair, skin and nails. It also combats oxidative stress to avoid signs of aging, like wrinkles and age spots.  Skin care products containing glutathione also highlight its skin brightening effect, noting how it can treat hyperpigmentation by influencing melanin production. It’s a great tool if you want to even out your skin tone and gain lighter melanin.  5. Salicylic Acid  Salicylic acid is popular in formulations that target acne and psoriasis and is typically present in toners and cleansers. Its primary effect is to enhance the skin barrier by exfoliating dead skin cells and promoting turnover. While salicylic acid effectively repairs cell damage, it’s essential to be wary of higher concentrations or frequent use. Its potency can induce cell damage on a certain level, so use it wisely and combine it with a more soothing product.  6. Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is another type of acid, though it helps target cellular damage differently.  It is best known for deeply hydrating the skin without clogging pores, targeting the tissues and ensuring that there’s enough moisture in the skin.  Some recommend using hyaluronic acid only when damage is already present. However, its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties can also be suitable for people with healthy and normal skin types. 7. Beta-Glucans Beta-glucans are an up-and-coming ingredient typically found in moisturizers that are catching the attention of many dermatologists. They can avert cell damage associated with aging or sun-exposed skin, making them a strong preventive tool against skin problems.  Beta-glucans also work by stimulating immune cells to attack pathogens, effectively fighting viruses on the skin barrier. This can be especially helpful for people with drier skin or rougher textures. 8. Acetyl Zingerone Acetyl zingerone comes from ginger, which is quite promising for skin care formulas. Further research shows that it can inhibit damage from UV rays, helping to prevent signs of aging and improve skin sensitivity.  Its benefits have already made it a safe and effective ingredient in sunscreens. However, it is possible to incorporate acetyl zingerone in other specialized clinical applications for further skin protection in the long run.  9. Collagen While collagen is naturally produced in the body and can be stimulated by other skin care ingredients, some find that direct supplementation is the key to getting the most effects. Specifically, type I collagen is connected to skin hydration and texture enhancement. You can find oral collagen peptides in optimal doses to get the anti-aging and cellular repair you need. However, there are also alternatives like creams and masks that can plump up the skin and make it look glowy.  Look Beyond the Top Skin Care Trends If you want to protect your future skin cells, look for ingredients that target damage. Scan the list on skin care products or research which ones contain the component you need, and ensure your face is in tip-top shape.

Even though my favorite foods might hit the spot, I make a point of knowing how they can give me foodborne illnesses. If you know how to reset your gut when you eat contaminated food, you’ll feel confident that you can stay healthy. You deserve the relief I felt after I learned how to improve my gut’s health while recovering from a round of food poisoning with a bagged salad. What Does Gut Resilience Mean? Gut resilience means that your digestive system has a strong microbiome. I’m happy to report that it has nothing to do with doing sit-ups. Your microbiome helps your body resist or recover from imbalances caused by viruses, bacteria and anything else that causes unpleasant trips to the bathroom. Rebuilding it after an illness is how to return to your regularly scheduled bowel movements. How Food Contamination Happens When I was a kid, I imagined that people got food poisoning because they accidentally drank spoiled milk or rotten vegetables. Those things are gross, but tainted food often develops in ways consumers can’t see. Dole Fresh Vegetables issued a February 2024 recall because several of its salad kits possibly contained Listeria monocytogenes after interacting with a contaminated cheese line in another brand’s manufacturing line. You’ll never see that manufacturing facility or the microscopic ​​Listeria monocytogenes wiggling around in your cheese. You also can’t tell if your eggs have germs in the yolks or if your fruit absorbed unclean water during irrigation. I don’t say those things to make you swear off fresh foods. Knowing how unsafe groceries arrive in your home is essential to protect your health. Symptoms of Foodborne Illnesses You don’t have to panic if you start feeling queasy after eating. Watch for some common upset stomach symptoms that are easy to miss. I knew I’d eaten something bad when I had: Loose stools Stomach cramps Vomiting Fever Headaches Weakness Those side effects are similar to the seasonal flu, so I know how frustrating it is to wonder which one you have. If your symptoms start a few hours after eating, it’s likely food poisoning. The flu takes 12 to 24 hours to make people sick. Think about the last time you felt off and slowly developed nausea or a fever over the course of a day. Food poisoning doesn’t take that long because your stomach wants to eject the contamination immediately. How to Rebuild Gut Health After Food Poisoning Learning how to reset your gut after food poisoning could help you recover faster. I always start feeling better once I give my digestive system the dietary tools it needs to heal. 1. Drink Extra Water Throwing up or having diarrhea for hours will drain your digestive system of any extra liquid it might have had. Chugging water is the last thing I want to do when I’m sick, but I still prioritize sipping it throughout the day when I can. The body needs water for basic functions, including maintaining a stable digestive system. Ask a loved one to pick up some electrolyte-infused beverages at the grocery store when your stomach settles enough to rehydrate. Drinking water with electrolytes will help your small intestine absorb fluids better by activating sodium-glucose transporters.  2. Consume More Probiotics Imagine someone trying to repair their house without a toolbox. They wouldn’t accomplish anything if they didn’t have all the needed materials. Probiotics are a toolbox for your gut. The helpful bacteria let your body break food into digestible nutrients, but food poisoning symptoms evacuate them from your stomach like everything else. You’ll need to eat probiotic foods or take a supplement as you recover from eating contaminated food. The beneficial bacteria ease your stomach back into a digestive routine. They can also fortify your stomach lining, which may remain inflamed after hours of diarrhea and vomiting. 3. Gradually Return to Fibrous Foods I’ve heard people recommend eating high-fiber foods to improve their digestive tract. While that might be true while you’re healthy, the nutrient-dense ingredients are often too intense for stomachs recovering from food poisoning. Remember, you’re still rebuilding your microbiome in the hours and days after your symptoms subside.  Try to stick with easily digestible items as you recover and introduce fibrous foods like applesauce. Understanding why your digestive system will need time to handle fiber-dense foods like broccoli is easier once you learn how to rebuild your gut health after food poisoning. 4. Get More Sleep I couldn’t run a marathon and immediately win a boxing match. The race would exhaust me, leaving my muscles too weak to compete in the ring. I’d need to rest before that could happen. Foodborne illnesses are a similar workout for your stomach muscles. Your digestive system will be too exhausted from a round of food poisoning symptoms to return to full strength immediately. Try to sleep as much as possible once your vomiting or diarrhea subsides. Rest also gives your immune system time to fight an infection if you’re sick because a virus sneaked into your last meal. Reset Your Gut After Stomach Illnesses Food poisoning can seem world-ending, but your stomach will eventually quiet down. If you know how to rebuild your gut health after food poisoning, you’ll return to your routine faster. Knowing that I can nurture myself back to full strength brings me peace of mind, making foodborne illnesses seem less scary.

https://unsplash.com/photos/white-and-red-lipstick-lot-fXTwsbVN8Hk Your lips were made for talking, and what they have to say goes way beyond words. Your preferred lip color can also reflect your personality — bold and red, earthy and nude, pink and classic. Wearing a color that matches your vibe and enhances your skin tone can make you look and feel great, boosting your mood, increasing your confidence and allowing for self-expression. What shade of lipstick should you wear to bring about those positive feelings? Choosing the right color is much more involved than just grabbing whatever’s being touted by influencers or advertised in a magazine. It’s about understanding your skin tone and the shades that will flatter it, considering what colors mean and how they make you feel, and taking care of your lips.   Understanding Your Skin Tone Before adding to cart, take a moment to consider your skin tone and its undertones. This will help guide you to the right shade of lipstick you should wear. There are six different skin tone types, ranging from pale to medium to olive to dark. This can be relatively easy for you to determine, but what’s more important to understand is your skin’s undertones. These are the natural colors underneath your skin’s surface. Understanding them is key to being able to select the most flattering lipstick color. The three traditional undertones include warm, cool and neutral. Warm undertones give off a peachy or golden cast, while cool ones include pink or bluish shades. If your undertone is neutral, it generally matches your skin tone. There are several ways to determine your undertone. You can examine your veins to determine if they appear greenish, which signifies a warm tone, or bluish, which means a cool tone. Veins that nearly match your skin are neutral. Jewelry is another good indicator. Gold flatters warm undertones, silver signifies a cool undertone and you’re neutral if you can wear both. Lipstick Shades for Every Skin Tone https://unsplash.com/photos/five-assorted-color-lipsticks-mzstXkKH8DI Understanding your skin tone and undertone makes it easier to home in on your ideal lipstick color. Understand lipstick color theory before shopping to avoid the disappointment of buying an unflattering shade that ends up at the bottom of your makeup bag. The key is to work with, not against, your complexion. What shade of lipstick should you wear to flatter your skin tone? Best for Cool Undertones Cool undertones are flattered by lipstick shades with blue or purple undertones themselves. For example, when picking a red shade, you’d look much better in one with cherry instead of orange tones. Other top picks include berry, mauve, magenta, rosy pink and taupe. Deep plum and wine look great on darker skin tones.   Best for Warm Undertones Warm-toned lipsticks work best with skin with warm undertones. Coral, rich rose and raspberry shades will all complement your complexion. You can also go bold with brick or orange-toned reds, terra cotta brown hues and even orange. Peachy nudes, bronze or caramel are great neutral options, as well. Best for Neutral Undertones Consider yourself lucky if you have neutral undertones, as a wide range of shades can flatter your skin. You can home in on specific colors by considering your tone: pink for fair, mauve for medium and berry for dark. Rose and nude shades are always favorable, and bold red is also universally flattering.   Luckily, everyone has a wide range of colors to choose from. Experiment to determine what shade of lipstick you should wear. The best option is one that is flattering and makes you feel good about yourself. How Lipstick Shades Affect Your Self-Confidence The right lipstick shade does more than make you look good — it also makes you feel good about yourself. It can show the world who you are, reflecting your personality and outlook on life. Consider the various emotions associated with certain colors: Red: Passion, confidence, excitement, love Pink: Romance, femininity, softness, youth Purple: Nobility, glamour, sophistication, mystery Orange: Warmth, kindness, joy Brown/nude: Elegance, simplicity, stability, realism Wearing these colors, if they complement your skin tone and undertone, can give you a major confidence boost and lift your mood. It’s the ultimate form of self-expression and self-care. Choosing the Right Formulation https://unsplash.com/photos/pink-and-black-lipstick-and-make-up-brush-L1iTsUBZYDk When determining what shade of lipstick you should wear, you need to think beyond color. The formulation makes a big difference in how it goes on and appears, and it also affects your health and well-being.  Lipsticks tend to fall into two formulations: creamy or matte. Creamy lipsticks are generally more pigmented and shiny, and can also provide hydration. They’re ideal for bolder colors. Matte varieties tend to be a bit more understated and long-lasting, perfect for nude shades, although they can play up flakiness if you’re not careful. You should also consider nontoxic brands and avoid the use of harmful chemicals. Ingredients like PFAS, formaldehyde and parabens can be absorbed through the skin, which can lead to allergic reactions and health issues. Look for certifications that signify your lipstick was made with nontoxic ingredients, such as MADE SAFE, USDA Organic and CertClean.  Application Tips for Long-Lasting Wear Now that you have your ideal shade and formulation, be sure you know how to apply it so your color lasts all day. Start by gently exfoliating your lips to remove dead skin and flakiness. You can use a toothbrush, washcloth or lip scrub, which is an exfoliating agent that softens and smooths. Hydrate your lips with a balm or lip oil to provide moisture and ensure your color won’t cling to dry patches, which could lead to a blotchy appearance. Take things a step further by applying a lightweight concealer or primer that matches your natural lip color to provide a smooth base for your lipstick to glide over. Consider a lipliner if using a bold shade or a glossy formulation to prevent feathering and color bleeding. You don’t want your lipstick to gravitate to your teeth. Pay Yourself Some Lip Service So, what shade of lipstick should you wear to look and feel great? Considering your skin tone and undertone, choosing a flattering color and applying it correctly will make all the difference in your appearance. Try a new look based on these recommendations, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find something that’s just right and boosts your confidence. Flattery will get you everywhere.

For many people, the joy of reading once came effortlessly — if you didn’t feel forced in school. Whether it was devouring a favorite book, an all-time classic, or a favorite series, reading was engaging, and you could do it late into the night or get lost in a novel on a quiet Sunday afternoon while enjoying a cup of coffee on your porch.  Books offer an escape, learning and a deep emotional connection to the characters or resonate with your reality. But, in an age where technology has evolved and digitization offers instant access to global communication, different forms of entertainment and social media, picking up a book may be more challenging.  Include book time in your weekly routine as you navigate how to concentrate on reading. With the right approach, you can rediscover the excitement of turning every page as you reignite or find a new passion outside the constantly evolving digital era.  Understand Why You’re Struggling to Focus To identify potential solutions for improving concentration while reading, it's essential to first understand the root cause of difficulty concentrating when reading. Consider whether digital distractions, mental fatigue, or an unsuitable environment are contributing factors. Many individuals have grown accustomed to scanning headlines and scrolling through feeds, which has conditioned their brains for superficial reading. Since the pandemic, people have spent more time doomscrolling to stay ahead of news, which has distressed their bodies. While there’s nothing wrong with staying updated, reading a book helps you escape reality using a technique that requires time, attention, and focus. People also struggle to read because their minds are focused on other chores to complete to avoid getting delayed or proving their self-worth.  Identifying your distraction triggers is the first step toward overcoming them. If notifications constantly pull your attention, silence your phone or keep it in a separate room while you read. If daily tasks leave you feeling drained, consider dedicating a few minutes to reading in the morning. Why Reading is Important The world is filled with fast content — 15-second videos, bite-sized headlines and endless social feeds, making it easy to focus on quick information feeds. But reading books brings unique value that’s a leisure activity and boosts your brain activity. This life-enriching decision will form a habit that incorporates into your lifestyle, making reading part of your daily or weekly routine.  Reading boosts brain function, memory, and attention while reducing stress and blood pressure by engaging the brain more deeply than skimming. Books, whether fiction or nonfiction, also build a deeper understanding. They offer a nuance and complexity that short content can’t replicate. Longer pieces provide context, history and perspective, teaching you to think critically, reflect and see the world through different lenses. Get passionate about books again because they help your brain and body function adequately and teach you how to communicate better. How to Concentrate on Reading Reading is a decision. Over half of Americans say they read at least one book annually, whether hard copy, e-book or audiobook. In addition to its benefits, reading also gives you access to an imaginary world you engage in at your own pace. For those who enjoyed reading but experienced life’s distractions, or those who want to help themselves physically and emotionally, wondering, “How can I focus on reading?” Here’s a helpful list.   1. Start Small and Build Consistency  Diving into a 500-page book may reduce your passion for reading because it’s overwhelming if you haven’t read in months or years. Start small — choose a short story, a novella, or a nonfiction book with bite-sized chapters. Then, commit to reading for 10 to 15 minutes daily. When you start small, it’s not about how much you read — it’s about your commitment to reading that creates consistency. Your brain recognizes a pattern, which it transforms into habits, so if you make reading a ritual, you’ll enjoy it over time.  2. Create a Dedicated Reading Environment Just like setting the scene for a good night’s rest, crafting a cozy reading spot can positively affect how your brain transforms a pattern into a habit. Choose your favorite chair and spot where your body feels most at peace. This could be your lounge, the porch or a room facing sunlight.  The goal is to create a space that tells your brain it’s time to relax and read. Avoid multi-tasking so it signals your brain to slow down and focus on the only task — reading. A clean, quiet setting creates a calm atmosphere that provides deep engagement.  3. Choose Books that Excite You Not every book will spark your interest, and that’s OK! Reading books you don’t enjoy can feel forced, resulting in disconnection, boredom and a chore. Just because people say a specific book is a must-read, doesn’t mean it would tickle your reading tastebuds.  Start with a book that interests you. If you enjoy crime, drama, fantasy, science fiction, true crime, memoirs, or autobiographies, read books in these genres. Reading the books you want to enjoy increases your passion for reading more.  4. Join or Start a Book Club If you're a social butterfly, you may enjoy reading and sharing feedback with a group. Starting or joining a book club gives your inner circle something to discuss. It also helps you concentrate on reading because you are responsible for providing feedback. Book clubs are usually set on designated days, enabling you to stay on track with reading to meet the book club deadline.  If you’re interested in tracking your progress, join online platforms to share reviews, get recommendations based on your interest and keep track of the books you’re reviewing or reading. Formal or informal book groups offer a sense of belonging, accountability and motivation.  Ignite Your Love for Reading, One Page at a Time  The first step to reading is committing. Start slow by setting a time limit, building momentum, and creating consistency. Choose a room that becomes your comfort and safe place for you and your books. Choose books that interest you so reading doesn’t feel boring, and choose your circle.  If you enjoy reading alone, that’s OK, but if you like having a group to hold you accountable, share interests and help you find another book, then choose a formal or informal setting to turn these small decisions and patterns into habits that will change your lifestyle. 

I realized it wasn't golden once silence kept me up at night. Falling asleep became a battle with the neighbor’s dog, the late-night delivery truck and even my own thoughts. So, I decided to try something new — sleeping with a white noise machine. One week in, I slept like a log, wondering why I hadn’t gotten this genius device earlier.  Let me explain white noise, how it helped me and what you should know before adding it to your sleep routine.  What Is White Noise? White noise is the audio equivalent of a blank canvas. It contains all audible frequencies in equal measure, which creates that familiar static sound — like an untuned radio. The idea is that it masks sudden shifts in noise that might wake you up, improving your sleep quality and decreasing the frequency of waking up.  The science behind it? A study on the impact of auditory environments suggests that white noise can help the brain block out distractions — great for sleep, but bad for studying — by essentially dulling its awareness of stimuli that would otherwise grab your attention. Silence enhances concentration, while the soothing static calms awareness, fights anxiety and helps you relax more, which helps create conditions suited to sleep. How White Noise Helped Me Sleep The first night, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. The machine my friend loaned me had several noise options — fan, static, ocean waves — and I started with classic white noise. Within 15 minutes, my mind started quieting. I didn’t fall asleep instantly, but while I noticed my surroundings, like the creak of the floorboards, I didn’t feel like they cut through me either.  By night three, I was asleep within 20 minutes, without my usual restlessness. Even better, I wasn’t waking up to random city noise or my partner shifting beside me. There was something comforting about the constant hum — it gave my brain permission to shut off.  The biggest change? I woke up feeling more rested. Not just that “I stayed in bed eight hours” rested, but a “My brain didn’t feel interrupted” feeling. That made me a believer, and I quickly bought my machine.  The Difference Between White, Pink, Brown and Green Noise I soon discovered that machines don’t just make white noise — there’s a whole spectrum of “colored” noises to choose from — each with unique effects. What to knowWhite NoisePink SpectrumBrown FrequenciesGreen NoiseFrequency All frequencies at equal intensityIncreased lower pitchDeep pitch, with focus on bassAmplified mid-range frequencies, limited highsSounds likeTelevision static or fanWindRumbling thunder Waterfall or leaves rustlingBest for Sleepers who wake easily and need help relaxingThose who find white noise jarring and don’t sleep deeplyAnxious sleepers, softer than white and pink noiseThose in high traffic areas who tend to get anxious at night https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0kbGwtEXMk&t=8s Example of white noise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6laD4H7RcIA&t=8s Example of pink noise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQiDjKHxdKk&t=2s Example of brown noise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BPT9m6VGU8&t=35s Example of green noise Different Types of White Noise Devices Unsurprisingly, many different types of white noise machines are on the market. Some of these devices aren’t specially designed to produce white noise and are basically Bluetooth speakers, while others are fitted with fans to make a rhythmic droning sound. You can use any sounds that meet the frequency requirements as white, pink, brown or green noise — even YouTube tracks.  The difference between using an app or audio track and a white noise machine is the quality of sound projection, authentic frequency spectrum projection and the ability of these machines to add specific sounds. These machines are usually more tailored to play all night long, meet presets and cut out external intrusions.  Your phone and earbuds aren’t likely to achieve the same effect, but a phone and app are a great way to test what type of noise spectrum you prefer — white, pink, brown or green.  Back to white noise machines — some use digital playback like a radio, while others use fans and mechanisms to produce the required frequencies. Phones and apps are great for travel purposes — and can block out surrounding sounds — as you’d want to avoid jostling your sensitive white noise machine. Alexa and Google Home can also hook you up with white noise loops. Whichever type of device you choose, ensure it features adjustable volume, quality sound and has the option for other types of ambient noise.  When Noise Doesn’t Work White noise isn’t one-size-fits-all for sleep disruptions. In fact, animal studies hint that white noise exposure may interrupt deeper rest by messing with rapid eye movement sleep, and by lulling the sleeper, it could also prevent you from registering important environmental sounds like the fire alarm or your infant crying in the next room. Playing the “noise” at high volumes can also cause hearing loss — any loud music can — so a lower volume than regular music is advised.   When used correctly and at appropriate volumes, white noise can cause tranquility and help you snooze off more easily, but it’s not for everyone. Another risk is becoming dependent on the sound to fall asleep, which equates the frequencies to an auditory stimulant or “drug.”  How to Safely Noise Distraction Into Your Sleep Routine If you’re curious about trying white noise, here’s how to ease it into your night without overthinking it.  Start with a consistent bedtime: Build a regular sleep schedule so your brain knows when to unwind.  Add white noise after lights-out: Turn it on right before bed to create a strong sleep association.  Keep the volume low: Aim for 30-50 dB or average room noise, but not background music levels. You may need to adjust this level if you have hearing loss. Remember, the volume should mask sounds with a soft white noise, not cause a distracting disco in your head.  Try it for a week or more: Results may not be instant. I needed three nights before I stopped questioning the “sound” and sleeping through it.  Accompany it with relaxation techniques: Add relaxing cues like reading, journaling or dim lighting to create a complete wind-down experience.  More Questions Can I Use a Noise Generator for Snoring?  While it won’t stop you or your partner from nose-growling all night, it can produce enough background frequencies to mask snoring and make the sound less distracting so you can catch some quality sleep.   Is Noise Distraction Safe to Use Every Night?  As long as the volume remains low, less than 70 dB, long-term exposure should not have negative physiological effects, though you may begin to rely on the sound to unwind and sleep.  What’s the Best Type of Noise for Sleep? It depends on your preferences. Pink and brown noise tend to feel gentler and are often favored by people who find white noise too sharp. Try a few options before choosing a machine.  How Do I Stop Myself From Becoming Dependent on White Noise to Sleep? Avoid dependency by alternating different sounds and using other calming methods, such as meditation tracks or mindful breathing before bed. Some users only use their machines when needed.  Is the Noise Worth It?  After a week of white noise, I’m not ditching it anytime soon.  It didn’t magically solve all my sleep problems but made a noticeable difference. The nights feel quieter — not in the literal sense, but in how my brain reacts. Instead of bracing for the next disruptive creak, bark or neighborly horn honk, I can now just sleep.  Plus, if the white noise doesn’t do it for you, there’s a spectrum of color sounds to explore.  Have you tried a white noise machine? Share your experiences on our social channels. 

Some people say that they have zero dreams when they head to bed. Others have the most vivid visions as soon as they fall asleep. Either way, you generally have zero consciousness or control over what occurs. However, a lucid dream is a gateway to gaining more autonomy over what happens in your head.  What Are Lucid Dreams? Lucid dreams entail self-awareness of one's dream state. Most experienced lucid dreamers or dreamwalkers have the power to alter different aspects of their sleep. Some people also refer to this ability as metacognitive awareness, which means reflecting on one's mental processes while sleeping.  Some may stumble upon the experience without even trying, but lucid dreaming is typically done intentionally. And with the rise of social media, more and more people are sharing their experience of getting into the dreamscape.   Benefits and Downsides of Lucid Dreams Lucid dreams are a two-sided coin, with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some people only experience the perks when they engage in this activity.  Here are the pros: Exercising creativity: Many people find themselves getting creative when they have free rein over the dream world. And if you have great memories, you can take those visions and make them a reality through art, writing and other forms of media.  Creating good dream content: Lucid dreaming is often recommended when you’re susceptible to nightmares, since you can alter what’s happening. Slowly change the course of what’s happening in your dreamscape or add more pleasant elements into it.  Building a positive waking mood: Fantastic dreams typically mean a good night’s rest and waking up in a fantastic mood. If you’re feeling stressed or just want to be a little more positive in the mornings, lucid dreaming is the key.  Here are the cons: Poor sleeping quality: Lucid dreaming can feel like you’re sleeping lighter, as opposed to that deep sleep where it feels like you’ve blacked out. The sleep quality can feel especially poor when you’re not completely successful in taking over your dreamscape. Reality confusion: Dreamwalkers may find it difficult to differentiate between what’s real and fake. It’s why it’s important to have some telltale signs for reality testing.  Undesirable lucid dreams: People with a stronger subconscious may hold more influence over your dream than you. Thus, you may alter fewer elements than you’d think and not achieve the ideal fantasy.  A study on lucid dreaming deduced that most negative outcomes typically stem from failed induction attempts or low dream control. Hence, if you want to experience the perks, you need to aim for absolute dream control and success.  How to Lucid Dream Tonight Curious about getting into the practice? Here’s a beginner-friendly guide on how you can try lucid dreaming tonight.  1. Create a Dream Journal If you think hard, some dreams repeat themselves or have patterns similar to one another. A dream journal is a great way to keep track of irregular or strange dreams. From there, try to list down dream signs that help you realize you’re dreaming. It could be anything from blurred texts, actions feeling too easy to do or recurring places.  2. Set Alarm for Your REM Period The Rapid Eye Movement or REM period is typically one of the best periods for you to gain consciousness while falling back to sleep. Set an alarm to go off after 5 hours of your sleep for this chance. Dreamwalkers typically dub this as the key step for the Waking Back to Bed or WBTB method.  3. Have a Pre-Sleep Meditation Routine Going into a lucid dream can be nerve-wracking for some people, which can affect your ability to fall asleep. Consider having a relaxation routine, like meditating, before you head to bed. Some people like to focus on sounds or scents in their room. Aside from lulling them into slumber, it’s also a good way to signal to your brain that you’re letting go of reality.  4. Recall Your Dream Upon Waking Up Once your alarm rings and you wake up, close the alarm and close your eyes again. Try to recall the last moment of your dream and get back into it once again. This can take some practice and is simpler if you feel exhausted. However, once you successfully recall it, you should already be hyperaware of the dream. 5. Practice Reality Testing To ensure it’s a dream and not reality, consider testing different elements of your dream. Checking the clock to see if the arms are wonky is a good telltale sign that you’re in your dream scape. From there, it’s time to manipulate what’s happening in your dream. Try to summon a dessert that you’d like or float off the ground as an exercise.  6. Have Fail-Safe Methods to Wake Up If you feel like you’re not in control of your lucid dream, it helps to have a few ways to back up and out. Repeatedly blinking their eyes and focusing on their breathing can help them subconsciously control their actual body. You can also instruct someone you trust to wake you up if you start to sleep talk, which you can trigger by calling out in your sleep.  Who’s Most Likely to Lucid Dream? Dreamwalkers come in all forms, each with their own reasons. One of the main reasons is to have some pleasure while you’re still sleeping, as most people tend to get busy during the day. Others also find lucid dreaming as a way to cope with nightmares or situations within their reality, like experiencing loss or misfortune.  What Is the Most Common Thing to Lucid Dream? Dreamwalkers can come up with all kinds of things in their lucid dreams. A study found that more than 80% of respondents engaged in flying, sex and other hedonistic activities they deem fun. Others, like students or athletes, try to solve problems and practice their skills. That said, the world is your oyster in the dreamscape, so you can do whatever you wish.  https://www.tiktok.com/@doubledltadhd/video/7021328015929953542?lang=en Get Into a Lucid Dream It is more than okay to lucid dream if you understand how to do it and have a good grasp of your thoughts and subconscious. If you have a fantasy you’ve wanted to fulfill, practice it slowly and safely. Subscribe to our newsletter for more fascinating content!

Whenever you search for eyeliner styles, one of the top results is matching these designs with different eye shapes. As a result, people are often conditioned to stick only with what supposedly works for them. That said, it can get you in a little bit of an eye makeup rut in the long run.  Eyeliner and Your Eye Shape There are eyeliner styles that work better for other eye shapes than others. It’s partly the reason why beginners or people trying to do their daily makeup are advised to identify what their type is. Here’s a general overview of what works best: Round eyes: Round eyes are known to have a prominent crease that goes along the shape of their eyes. It is circular in nature, which people recommend defining with an elongated cateye and a little shading.   Monolid eyes: Monolid eyes are an eye type that has little to no crease above the eyelashes. If there is a crease, it’s usually folded into itself. Most people recommend using the puppy eyeliner for this shape.  Hooded eyes: Hooded eyes are characterized by a fold on the upper eyelid, which is typically created due to excess skin from the eyebrow area. It tends to make the eyes seem more droopy, so most elongated liner can make you seem more awake.  Almond eyes: Almond eyes are known for being oval-shaped, seemingly having a naturally elongated look. They typically go well with just about any eyeliner style, but cateyes certainly standout.  Why You Should Have Fun with Your Eyeliner Styles It can be nice to have a staple eyeliner that you know will work for you every single time. However, it’s also worth being a little adventurous with the way you handle your makeup, especially if you personally feel like the repetitiveness is taking the fun out of it. It’s natural to want to enjoy doing your makeup and the end result that comes with it. While 34% of American women wear makeup to enhance certain features, there are also 26% who choose to do it for self-expression. Thus, you should try to get out of your comfort zone and try new styles.  Best Eyeliner Designs Branching out to new eyeliner styles can seem sketchy, especially if it’s your first time. Luckily, you can try to follow along with tutorials or just have a reference to zone in on. Here are some liquid eyeliner look ideas to try out.  1. The Classic Cat-eye Feline, feminine and flirty all at the same time— the cat-eye liner is a classic. To achieve this, you can usually start with a lick upward on the outer corner. From there, connect it the rest of your eye while maintaining the sharp swoop.  https://www.tiktok.com/@l_yuhann/video/7394053444736257298 2. The Puppy Liner The puppy eyeliner is quite popular in douyin and other Asian-styled makeup, associated with innocence and kindness. To create this, follow the outer corner of your eye and create a downturned eyeliner. You’re aiming for a soft and rounded edge when creating this line.  https://www.tiktok.com/@onigiri.nana/video/7430924085808450847 3. Siren Eyeliner Siren eyeliner, often dubbed fox-eye liner, is an alluring eyeliner style that focuses on drawing as much attention to the eyes as possible. It usually starts out with a sharp and thin cat-eye before adding a sharp liner to the inner corner. Some people tie everything together with a little bit of gel liner on the lower and upper lashline.  https://www.tiktok.com/@stxph.h/video/7120609545101036802?lang=en 4. Doe Eyes Eyeliner Doe eyes were a popular trend that was seen as the complete opposite of siren eyeliner. Rather than going for that sultry look, you’re aiming for gentle and princess-like. Some people start with a smaller version of the cateye, but the puppy liner works wonders, too. Line the eyes with white or nude eyeliner for an extra touch of innocence  https://www.tiktok.com/@hannahchengbradshaw/video/7301689371588185362 5. Reversed Winged Liner Reverse winged liner, sometimes known as reversed cat eye, is a growing trend on TikTok that features a smoky liner at the bottom of the eyelid. Most people usually use gel liner for this technique to create the smudged effect.  https://www.tiktok.com/@rachdeoliveira/video/7351661607061179650 6. Double-Winged Eyeliner The double-winged liner is a great introduction to graphic liner. It is characterized by two sharp wings on both the upper and lower parts of the eye’s outer corner. The negative space in between both can be filled in with concealer or glitter for extra definition.  https://www.tiktok.com/@scortezzbeauty/video/7427836963085880583 7. Bat Wing Liner A subtle bat wing liner is viewed as the cateye for hooded eyeliners, as it still creates that little flick when you’re looking straight with your eyes open. That said, people with other eyeshapes can also try creating that thick and creative shape.  https://www.tiktok.com/@princxssglitterhead/video/7280899632102673707 8. Floating Eyeliner Floating eyeliner is another graphic eyeliner style that can be fun. Rather than connecting the lines to the eyes themselves, they’re drawn above, below, or around the eyes instead. They can come in dashes, dots, and so many more shapes.  https://www.tiktok.com/@glamgio_nyc/video/7478736376993811754 How to Try Out Other Eyeliner Styles Eyeliner styles can be a joy, but perfecting them takes practice. Here’s a quick guide that you can use for any eyeliner style you desire: Stencil with eyeshadow: Eyeshadow can be great way of trying on an eyeliner style without committing to it just yet. Choose brown for a more subtle look before getting the black out. If the design isn’t resonating, dissolve it with micellar water and go from there.  Experiment with colors: Brown and black eyeliners are some of the most basic colors. Consider going bold and bright with other colors like red, blue and purple. If you want to stand out, neon hues like yellow and green are the way to go.  Accentuate with the rest of your makeup: Any kind of eyeliner design can always seem odd at first without the right eyeshadow and lashes to back it up. Make sure you have your base and eyemakeup to accompany your eyeliner-experimenting journey.  Get Experimental with Eyeliner Styles  Eyeliner styles can be so fun and creative when you allow them to be. Forget your eye shape once in a while and just wear what design really draws you in. The sooner you see makeup as a way of self-fulfillment and expression, the better. Share your favorite eyeliner style with us on our social media pages! 

Your gut microbiome isn’t just about digestion — it’s the control center for your immunity, mood and overall health. Healing your gut goes way beyond probiotics or trendy diets. It’s about restoring balance in your body from the inside out. But what does that actually look like and how do you know when your gut needs help?  What Is the Gut Microbiome?  Your gut microbiome is basically your body’s very own internal rainforest — dense, diverse and full of life. It’s made up of trillions — yes trillions — of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes living mostly in your large intestine. Far from being just digestive helpers, these tiny organisms are behind some of your body’s biggest processes and help with everything from keeping your immune system strong to regulating your mood and hormones.  In fact, scientists sometimes refer to the gut as the second brain because it is directly connected to the central nervous system through the vagus nerve. So, when your gut microbiome is balanced, you feel energized, focused, and even happier. But when things are off, you might deal with everything from bloating to breakouts to feeling constantly sluggish. Your microbiome can weigh up to four to six pounds — about the same as your brain. That’s a lot of bacteria working overtime to keep you well.  Signs Your Gut Is Crying for Help If your gut microbiome could speak, it would probably be screaming during your third straight night of microwave dinners and doomscrolling. However, since it can’t use words, it sends signals — and they’re often easy to miss if you don’t know what to look for. Here are a few common gut distress signals:  Constant bloating, gas or irregular bathroom habits.  Sugar cravings that won’t quit.  Skin issues like acne or eczema flares.  Mood swings, anxiety or brain fog.  Low immunity or frequent colds.  Poor sleep quality.  And here’s the kicker — around 70% of your immune system lives in your gut, so when your microbiome is out of whack, your whole body feels it. A troubled gut can even influence how you absorb nutrients, how often you get sick and how sharp your mind feels day-to-day. So if you’ve been “off” lately and can’t quite explain why, it might be time to stop blaming Mercury retrograde and start paying attention to you gut.  Gut Healing Isn’t a Diet — It’s a Lifestyle Shift  Healing your gut isn’t about hopping on a trendy juice cleanse or buying expensive probiotic gummies. It’s about rethinking how you treat your body every day. Yes, food is a major player. However, your gut also loves regular sleep, movement, downtime and even positive emotions. Chronic stress and antibiotic overuse can seriously mess with your gut flora. The good news is that you don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Small, sustainable steps are the secret sauce. Here are a few gut-happy habits worth sharing:  Ditch the ultra-processed stuff, especially artificial sweeteners and additives.  Add more fiber with foods like oats, bananas, flaxseed and leafy greens.  Embrace fermented foods like kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut or miso.  Drink more water and get in some movement every day — even a 10-minute walk.  Lower stress levels with breathwork, nature or journaling.  Don’t demonize all bacteria, either. Your body needs the good kind. A nourished gut is a balanced gut and that balance is what leads to long-term energy, better mood and fewer sick days.  Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics: What’s the Difference?  If the world of gut health feels like alphabet soup, you’re not alone. Prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics — it’s a lot. But don’t worry, here’s the breakdown in plain English:  Prebiotics are the food your good bacteria need to grow. Think of them like fertilizer for your gut garden. You’ll find them in fiber-rich foods like garlic, onions, bananas, oats and asparagus.  Probiotics are the live bacteria themselves — the friendly microbes you want more of. They’re found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha.  Postbiotics are the byproducts created when probiotics eat prebiotics. They include short-chain fatty acids that reduce inflammation, strengthen the gut lining, and support the immune system.  If you’re still confused, think of it this way: prebiotics bring the snacks, probiotics are the party guests and postbiotics are the happy energy left in the room after a great night.  The magic really happens when all three work together — so try to include a variety of gut-friendly foods throughout your day for the best effect.  What Healing Might Look Like Here’s where it gets real: healing your gut isn’t always a graceful glow-up. Sometimes, it gets worse before it gets better.  You might feel more bloated, moody or even tired during the first few days or even weeks of making dietary shifts, especially if you’re cutting sugar or gluten or introducing new foods. This isn’t failure. It’s often a die-off reaction, where bad bacteria are exiting and your gut is adjusting to the new normal.  That’s why it’s important to go slow, stay hydrated and track your symptoms. Journaling how you feel after meals or changes can help you spot patterns and progress. Consider working with a registered dietitian of functional medicine practitioner if you’re dealing with chronic issues like IBS, PCOS, autoimmune conditions or persistent acne.  Healing is not linear, but it is worth it. Just ask anyone who’s finally sleeping better, having regular bowel movements or glowing without foundation thanks to a balanced gut.  Your Daily Gut-Glow Routine Good gut health isn’t about the occasional green smoothie — it’s built into your daily rhythm. The goal is to support your microbiome from sunrise to sleep without it feeling like a full-time job. Here’s a sample Gut Glow routine you can try:  Morning: Start with warm water and lemon or apple cider vinegar because this stimulates digestion.  Eat a fiber-rich breakfast like chia pudding, oats or a smoothie with greens and banana.  Midday:  Move your body. Walking helps keep things “moving” because movement assists with digestion.  Include a fermented food with lunch — maybe kimchi or sauerkraut in a bowl or on a sandwich  Evening: Wind down early — your gut needs sleep to repair.  Sip on calming tea like chamomile or peppermint.  Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before bed so you can support both gut and brain health.  Remember, gut health is holistic. Gratitude journaling, deep breathing and even laughing more can lower stress and reduce gut inflammation.  Go With Your Gut  Healing your gut microbiome isn’t about perfection — it’s about small, daily choices that can add up. Feed it well, lower your stress and stay consistent. Your gut holds more power than you realize, from your mood to your immunity.

Period hunger is a real problem for many women, and it can be a double-edged sword since you’re either miserable with limiting your food intake or eating too much junk that’s bad for your body. Understand how to stop cravings with the power of better mindsets and habits.  Are Period Cravings Normal? Yes, period cravings are regular. If anything, some women even have some quite intense ones. The science behind it is that hormone shifts trigger your neurotransmitters to crave certain types of food.  However, it’s important to note that these same period cravings can also impact your gas and gut sensitivity. Any significant changes in diet can make you a little more gassy and bloated than usual.  What People Usually Crave Before Their Period People will have their own version of period cravings, and it’ll be mainly centered around their guilty pleasures. But generally, this is what people crave before their period.  Sweets: Most people crave sugar before their period, from powdered doughnuts to cookies and more. However, the hormonal changes influence their blood glucose and insulin sensitivity, especially for women with type 1 diabetes.  Salty food: Salty foods like chips and processed food can be addictive, and craving them is natural due to their mood-boosting hormones. It can be hard on your body to overindulge on these, and it’s double trouble when combined with sweets. Carbs: Potatoes, pasta, pastries, and other kinds of carbs are the ultimate comfort food, which is a must for period cramps. However, a big intake of these items can be too hard to ingest due to the amount of starch and fiber in them.   How to Stop Cravings The key to keeping your appetite in check is to condition yourself to prioritize your health first through your line of thinking and actions. For a more in-depth guide, check out the steps on how to stop cravings pre-menstruation.  1. Differentiate Hunger and Cravings Some people tend to excuse giving in to their period cravings by dismissing them as complete hunger. And while there are some similar symptoms between them, like a rumbling stomach and deep desire for food, there are distinctions that can help you manage your appetite. Period cravings stem from a need for emotional satisfaction. Meanwhile, hunger comes from a need to refuel your energy levels, as it’s been a while since you last ate. If you’re feeling hungry, you can typically cover it up with non-junk food.  2. Up Your Protein Intake When meal-planning for this time of the month, consider prioritizing your protein intake and eating a little more than usual. Protein keeps you satisfied a little longer since it satiates hunger and curbs cravings. Adding a boiled egg to your breakfast, lunch or dinner can make it more filling. You can also sprinkle in protein-filled snacks such as nuts and seeds in between meals.  3. Practice Mindful Eating Mindful eating is a great way to reframe your meal times as a time to refuel rather than consume as much as possible and get a serotonin boost. For example, pay attention to how much food you’re putting on your plate when serving yourself. You can also aim for present-moment awareness as you eat. Try to reflect on how your food makes you feel and whether you feel full. Practicing this before your period cravings hit makes it easier to do during them.  4. Look for Healthy Alternatives Another way to deal with your cravings is by scheduling healthier alternatives. For example, you know that you always crave chicken nuggets straight out of the freezer bag. A good compromise is to make some tofu nuggets instead from scratch. The best case scenario is that you’ll love the healthier version and stick with it for a while. If it doesn’t taste great, you could be swayed away from those cravings for a bit.  5. Drink More Water Feel a little more full, crave a little less. A glass of water can go a long way in regulating your appetite throughout the week. Plus, the extra boost of hydration can relieve certain period pains like headaches, cramps and bloating.  Having trouble with remembering to get the glass? Consider keeping a bottle on your person at all times. You can also set a few reminders throughout the day via the phone's alarms.  6. Focus on Getting Enough Sleep Periods already create enough hormonal changes to trigger food cravings, and sleep deprivation can aggravate that to another degree. Thus, getting your sleep can minimize the desire for unhealthy foods. Granted, it can be tougher to sleep when menstruating. A heat pack on the abdomen can help soothe any cramps and pain. You can also try other sleeping positions, like lying on your side. Remember to support yourself with the softest pillows.  7. Distract Yourself with Leisure The emotional satisfaction that comes from binge-eating on your period can be attained through other activities instead. For example, try to look for a great show or book that you can watch or read throughout the week. A massage or a warm bath is also therapeutic, especially since it can soothe the muscular tension in your body. You can also try other low-impact activities like yoga, gentle exercise or a mere walk in the park if you feel up to it.  Bonus: Indulge in Moderation Refraining from your period hunger is ideal. However, heightened cravings can reduce women’s self-control and make them give in to them anyway. If that’s the case, cut yourself slack and get what you want. Just make sure you’re only portioning an appropriate amount to eat.  You can also make it a little healthier with certain additions. For instance, top your pizza with arugula and mushrooms, or have a side of corn and carrots to your mashed potatoes.  Stopping Your Period Cravings Figuring out how to stop cravings can be a tall task, especially during your period. That said, it’s generally better for your health to get it under control, especially before it gets too out of hand. Build up good habits from the get-go and manage your appetite as best as you can. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tips!

Have you ever looked at a person and thought that they were pretty cool? Some people may leave it at that, or research some lore behind them out of curiosity. Meanwhile, others fall into an emotional rabbit hole and form parasocial relationships. Sometimes, even without noticing.  What Is a Parasocial Relationship? A parasocial relationship is a one-way relationship that individuals have with another person. It could be a celebrity, an influencer, or even a fictional character from a form of media that you like. Some people view these kinds of connections as deeply emotional, with others going as far as coding them as romantic and obsessive.  My Experience with Parasocial Relationships Parasocial relationships can be more common than you’d think. A survey found that 52% of its participants have reported having at least one. Some of them would have them with a YouTuber, primarily because of how much content they may consume from that creator. However, these bonds are also apparent for actors, K-pop idols, animated characters and so much more.  My personal experience was with an online streamer. I enjoyed watching them play games, as it tends to give me company in my quieter apartment. As it went on though, I think I would cancel so many plans just to be one of the first people on their stream and get a quick “hello.” I started feeling upset when they wouldn’t read my messages because the chat was moving so fast.  The parasocial interactions definitely didn’t feel romantic, but it did almost feel like I had a friend who was ignoring me. I just had an epiphany that I was in way too deep and reminded myself that they weren’t actually a friend—they were just strangers online. I took a break from watching them after I realized that they were affecting my mental state.  The Argument for Parasocial Relationships It should’ve been self-explanatory that parasocial relationships aren’t the greatest, considering that it sounds like a mesh of the words “paranoia” and “parasitic”. But in their defense, these kinds of connections can have a few benefits, like: Creates a sense of belonging: When you enjoy a public figure, you turn around and find a community of fellow fans who share the same interests. It makes you feel less alone and provides you with opportunities to find friends.  Provides joy and entertainment: Having someone you adore can have pure intentions, such as supporting them and enjoying the type of person they are. It can fuel you with joy to consume the media that they’re in or the content that they directly put out.  Helps you form an identity: Your interests can help you define who you are. That public persona can be a source of inspiration for what kind of hobbies you want to pursue or the type of person that you aspire to be in the future.  Why Parasocial Relationships Turn Out to Be More Harmful Than Healthy After a little more digging and introspection, parasocial relationships are, in fact, unhealthy to get into. Here are some of the top reasons why: 1. Takes Precedence Over Real Relationships Perhaps you’re getting into a rough patch with your family. Maybe you’re in a relationship cool-off and thinking that you’ll come back to fix it. Fixating on parasocial relationships tends to take so much time, energy and attention away from tending to your real-life relationships. They may also hinder you from building new ones, since you’re so preoccupied with a persona. 2. Creates Unrealistic Expectations Again, a public figure is not your lover or your best friend, and demanding too much of them can cause plenty of stress on both sides. You start expecting too much of them, which sets you up for heartbreak. Plus, for smaller influencers, they start to get stressed about taking responsibility for your emotions, even if they don’t have to. 3. Gives Too Much Power to Individuals You’re lucky if you aren’t in a parasocial relationship with a narcissist, or someone who would take advantage of your adoration toward them. There are too many horror stories online of how they’ve been manipulated to think or do something in a certain way. One common example is that brands recognize that social media influencers have a considerable following. A study finds that parasocial relationships in that setting can boost purchase intentions, which affects your financial well-being.  4. Builds Obsessive Behaviors Parasocial relationships can also cause you to build obsessive behaviors in the long run. Some of these actions can be unprompted, such as responding to hate comments online just to defend them or searching their personal information to come and meet them. Having such obsessive thoughts about a person can negatively affect your mental state by creating the notion that they’re the only one who matters. It will hinder you from working on yourself and other responsibilities that you have.  How to Avoid Parasocial Relationships Parasocial relationships are easy to enter unintentionally, even without coercion from a persona. Here are some tips for practicing more self-awareness. 1. Assess Your Reasons for Getting Parasocial Every person has their own emotional triggers for growing parasocial relationships. Loneliness can be a considerable factor, and, unfortunately, one in six people worldwide deals with that feeling. If this is the case, you must get out of your comfort zone and talk to people. These will result in more meaningful connections in the long run.  2. Take a Social Media Break Social media can be a considerable factor in your fixations, especially if you’re constantly on your phone. A break can improve your mental well-being and help you realize how to manage it properly. You can also intentionally omit any profiles or media from the persona that you’re growing an attachment to through some app settings.  3. Mindfully Appreciate, Not Obsess Consider journaling your parasocial interactions and try to reflect on how they make you feel. It’s a great way to keep a record of your own emotions, as well as make progress on your personal self-awareness. With time, you’ll learn to tone down adoration into simple appreciation, so you can still enjoy media and content without obsessive tendencies.  4. Shift Your Focus to Real Relationships Channel whatever resources you would have been giving to your personal relationship toward family, friends and your partner instead. Even just making 3-minute eye contact or setting up a date night can be quite the effort to reconnect with them. Move Past the Parasocial Parasocial relationships can become unhealthy when they let themselves fester and you start putting real or fictional people onto a pedestal. It’s important to be more self-aware of your behaviors and to walk away from these obsessions before you get into the deep end.