7 Ways to Make Your Meal Prep Even Easier

On Sundays, we meal prep! Katrina and I are all about meal prep — it’s one of the best ways to set yourself up for a healthy week. It doesn’t take long at all and it will save you so much time during the week. And when you prep in advance, you always have healthy, nutrient-packed snacks on hand. Today we’re sharing our top meal prep tips. These will be lifesavers during your busy week!

1. Get the gear. Make sure you have plenty of Meal Prep Containers to store all of your veggies, protein, and healthy snacks. Lock ‘em up tight and enjoy all week long! You can grab our Pop ’N Go Meal Prep Containers HERE!

2. Chop it up! Chopping veggies on Sunday is one of the best ways to ensure that you’ll eat plenty of greens throughout the week. When the veggies are prepped, it’s super easy to whip up lunch or dinner super fast on your busiest days. Toss them in a bowl or salad, sauté them for a simple stir fry, or wrap them up for an easy lunch.

3. Upgrade your smoothie. Make your smoothies and smoothie bowls extra creamy by freezing bananas on Sunday. Slice up a few bananas for the week and throw them in the freezer. Make sure to lay them flat in a plastic bag so they won’t stick together. Check out some of our fave smoothie recipes HERE!

4. Whip up egg muffins. These are so easy to throw together and one of our favorite things to make! Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a muffin tin with coconut oil and fill with egg whites, chopped spinach or zucchini, and your fave herbs and spices. You can add yolk if you want too. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Store them in your fridge for up to four days.

5. Kale yeah! Kale is a staple for us — we’re kind of obsessed. We always marinade our kale on Sundays with a little olive oil and lemon juice. This makes it even tastier and easier to digest. Another pro tip: Chop your kale with kitchen shears. Try one of our go-to lunches, the K&Kale Salad! 

6. Get your grill on. Meal prep your lean proteins, including chicken, ground turkey, and tempeh, on the grill or in the oven to make your weekday cooking a breeze. Keep them sealed and toss them in your lunch or dinner. You’re going to love how fast your cooking and clean up will be!

7. But first, (iced) coffee. Freeze almond milk in ice trays. When the ice cubes melt, it won’t water your coffee down! You can also freeze coffee too.

Check out even more simple meal prep ideas HERE and in the video below!!

We have tons more nutrition advice in our Tone It Up Nutrition Plan. Join the plan and you’ll immediately gain access to thousands of slimming recipes and tips. Plus, we lay everything out for you — what to eat, when, and how it all works to help you reach your goals!

What are your favorite meal prep tips? Share them with us @BritandCo and @ToneItUp!

(Photos via Tone It Up)

An essential part of your healthy lifestyle is taking some time to unwind and relax. Self-care is not selfish — we always say that when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to care for everyone else in your life. You’re a better partner, friend, mother, leader, and coworker.

Today we’re sharing five tips to care for YOU, mind, body, and spirit. These will help you unwind, bust stress, and feel your best. You deserve it!

These tips are featured from your new Balanced and Beautifulbook! It’s the ultimate five-day guide to feel your most refreshed, motivated, inspired, energized, and relaxed. Every chapter is filled with workouts, recipes, girl talk, beauty tips, lifestyle advice, and mindfulness guides. Get your copy here!

1. Throw a Girls’ Night in. Relax with your girls! Pick up some wine or kombucha and ask your friends to each bring a dish or app they love. Then turn on one of your favorite movies — we always love Clueless, The Breakfast Club, or The Holiday. You can set the scene with dim lights and candles and fill the room with pillows and blankets to help everyone get comfy. And don’t forget the popcorn! We make our own healthy version on the stovetop and flavor it with 1 tsp. ground cinnamon and 1 tbsp. coconut sugar. So delicious!

2. Make a DIY face mask. Bring the spa home! We love this moisturizing avocado face mask:

1/2 ripe avocado

1 tsp. plain yogurt

1 tsp. honey

1. In a bowl, mix together all ingredients.

2. Apply to your face and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and a washcloth.

3. Get out for a stroll. If you’re having a stressful day, take a 10-minute walk on your lunch break or go for an evening walk with a girlfriend. Exercise releases feel-good endorphins, which can combat anxiety. The sounds of nature will soothe you too. You can also take this opportunity to confide in your girlfriend or call your mom! Sharing your feelings is so therapeutic and will immediately help you feel more relaxed.

3. Namaste away stress. A yoga class always give us relaxed, happy vibes! Plus, research has linked yoga to decreased stress levels. Make a yoga and brunch date with a girlfriend or schedule one of the amazing yoga classes in your Studio Tone It Up app.

4. Watch the sunset. This sounds so simple, but watching the sunset can be a powerful way to unwind and connect with yourself. Make it a tradition and no matter what you’re doing, aim to power down your computer and put away your phone and be present in the moment. As you watch, take a minute to reflect on your day and everything you accomplished.

What are your favorite self-care ideas? Share them with us @BritandCo and @ToneItUp.

(Photos via Tone It Up)

If Gilmore Girls andThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel have shown me anything, it's that creator Amy Sherman-Palladino always has an incredible story up her sleeve. Her new show Étoile, which is coming to Prime Video, promises to be a beautiful and sophisticated look at the world of dance, and if the fact that it's from Amy wasn't enough reason to watch it, it's also Prime's first new show to get a two-season order! Here's everything we know about the series.

What is the next Sherman Palladino show?

Writer/Producer/Director Amy Sherman-Palladino, Writer/Producer/Director Daniel Palladino seen at Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life premiere.Eric Charbonneau/Netflix

Following our beloved Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Dan and Amy Sherman-Palladino's next series is Étoile, which is set at two world-famous ballet companies in New York City and Paris. When both companies run into some trouble, the decide to swap their most talented stars in a last-ditch effort to save themselves.

And based on the first set leaks from New York City, it looks like Étoile will definitely be packing on the drama. This short clip shows Luke Kirby standing outside Lincoln Center in a serious conversation (probably about the fate of his ballet company, TBH).

"Well, guess that plan for early retirement will have to wait," Dan and Amy said in a joint statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). "Instead, we’ve decided to embark on an international journey with an unbelievable group of players and the most talented ballet dancers in the world. We will sleep when we’re dead."

But this isn't the first time ASP has forayed into the world of ballet! Her ABC Family series Bunheads (which premiered on June 11, 2012) follows Michelle (Sutton Foster) who moves to her hometown of Paradise and starts working at her mother-in-law's dance studio The Paradise Dance Academy.

Who will star in the new show?

Photo via WB

The best part is that the role of Michelle's mother-in-law is played by Emily Gilmore herself, Kelly Bishop!

When does Étoile premiere?

Anya Juárez Tenorio/Pexels

We don't have an official release date yet, but considering THR recently revealed the show will finish filming soon, we're hoping to see Étoile in 2025. Just like Gilmore Girls is the ultimate fall rewatch, maybe Étoile will be the ultimate winter rewatch!

Who's in the Étoile cast?

Luke Kirby attends the The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Finale Celebration at the Fonda Theater in Los Angeles on Mon, May 22, 2023. Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages/Prime Video

So far, we know that Étoile will star Luke Kirby, Gideon Glick, Camille Cottin, Simon Callow, Lou de Laâge, and David Alvarez. Yanic Truesdale, who played our favorite Gilmore Girls concierge Michel, has also joined the series as a recurring character! I'm so excited to see Yanic working with Amy Sherman-Palladino again — it's like a Gilmore Girls reunion!

What does Étoile mean?

Jeremy Thomas/Unsplash

Étoile translates to "star," and there are so many different connections here! We have the ballet stars themselves, but you also wish upon a star and reach for the stars when you're working towards a dream. If you ask me, Étoile is the perfect name for this series.

How many episodes does Étoile have?

Merve Sehirli Nasir/Unsplash

The first season of Étoile will have eight episodes total, but considering Prime Video ordered two seasons, we'll definitely be getting more episodes.

Are you excited to watch Étoile? Check back here for the latest news on the series, and stay updated on your favorite TV shows and movies on our Facebook!

This post has been updated.

Hey, gorgeous! As trainers, we’re often asked our top tips for staying fit while traveling. One of our absolute favorite ways to sculpt gorgeous muscles anytime, anywhere is with Booty Bands. We’ve broken out our Booty Bands for a quick workout in just about every place you can imagine. (We actually just took them with us to Europe last week.) You can travel with them, use them in the airport, your hotel room, or take them outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery! If you don’t have Booty Bands yet, you can grab them here.

Today we’re sharing some of our go-to moves you can do while traveling to target and tone your cute booty — plus your legs, arms, and abs too! You can find even more amazing sculpting workouts in your Studio Tone It Up app. The app is your perfect travel companion for access to a variety of workout classes that you can join every hour. You’ll find yoga, kickboxing, HIIT, and more. Get ready to feel your healthiest, strongest, and most confident yet!

For amazing results, go through 20 reps of each move for a total of three rounds.

1. Booty Band Shuffle

Tones your outer thighs and booty.

Begin standing with your booty band above your ankles. With a slight bend in your knees and hands on your hips, take two steps to the right, then two steps to the left while keeping your booty low.

Do 10 reps in each direction.

2. Standing Booty Kickback

Tones your hamstrings and booty.

Begin standing with the band just above your ankles. Lift your right leg back behind you just a few inches off the ground while keeping a slight bend in your standing leg. Return your right leg down to starting position and repeat, then switch legs.

Do 10 reps on each side.

3. Booty Band Squat Jacks

Sculpts your thighs and booty and boosts your heart rate.

Begin with the band just above your ankles and feet hip-width apart. Jump both feet out and lower into a squat position, then jump back to starting position.

Do 20 reps.

4. Booty Band Arm Tap Out

Tones your arms, shoulders, and entire core.

Begin in a plank position with the band placed just above your wrists. Lift your right hand and tap it to the outside of your mat before bringing it back to starting position. Repeat with your left hand.

Do 10 reps on each side.

6. Booty Band Plank Lift

Strengthens your core, legs, and booty.

Begin in a plank position with the band around your ankles. Lift your right leg six inches off the ground, then lower it back down. Repeat move with your left leg. Alternate sides with each rep.

Do 10 reps on each side.

What are your favorite booty exercises? Share them with us @BritandCo and @ToneItUp.

(Photos and GIFs via Tone It Up)

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Opening my stocking is absolutely my favorite part of Christmas morning. There’s nothing a tiny lil’ gift can’t fix! If you’re looking to bulk up your fam’s stockings this year, Target’s got you covered with tons of fun finds under $5. I scoured 300+ Target stocking stuffers and found some truly stunning (and cute) options just in time for Christmas!

Scroll on for the best Target stocking stuffers you can shop for $5 or less!

Target

Wondershop Winter Road Trip Cozy Crew Socks

You can't ever go wrong with a cozy pair of socks! These recall the holiday season in the cutest way.

Target

Favorite Day Reindeer Christmas Cocoa Mix

This readymade hot chocolate mix comes complete with marshmallows for the tastiest cup around. Plus, how adorable (erm, a-deer-able) is that packaging?

Target

Room Essentials Disco Notepad + Pen Set

This shiny notepad will come in handy for collecting New Year's goals, work notes, and, of course, miscellaneous doodles.

Target

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge + Travel Case Ornament

Whether you hang it on the Christmas tree or stuff it in their stocking, any beauty lover will appreciate a brand-new blending sponge (and the handy travel case)!

Target

Teak + Tobacco Reading Light Candle

Got a bookworm in your life? They're sure to love this cozy candle that smells like a robust blend of teak and tobacco for their reading sessions.

Target

Anihana Aromatherapy Shower Steamer

Gift 'em a dose of self-care with this calming, sinus-relieving shower steamer! The aroma is truly heaven.

Target

Burt's Bees Lip Balm Set

This lip + hand care duo comes in the cutest Christmas-y packaging to evoke so much cheer.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Tree Mug

A $5 mug will always get me. This one comes in the shape of a festive Christmas tree for hosting all sorts of hot chocolates, teas, and hot toddies.

Target

Wild Fable Essential Gloves

Gloves make the perfect practical gift for those who live somewhere cold. These even have touch screen compatibility on the fingertips so they don't have to sacrifice comfort to make a call or send a text.

Target

Chapstick 4-Piece Lip Balm Set

If your giftee is anything like me, they'll always adore a new set of lip balms (even though their collection may be overflowing).

Target

Favorite Day Hot Chocolate Drink Bomb

I fear it truly doesn't get any more festive than a chocolate and peppermint combo. This $4 find is sweet.

Target

A New Day Cozy Knit Ribbed Embroidered Cherry Crew Socks

Oh, these socks are so cute! They have little embroidered cherries on the top and even come with an attached gift tag so you don't necessarily have to wrap them.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Cat Mug

Any cat lover will want to reach for this festive feline all year long!

Target

Da Bomb Bath Fizzer Snowflake Gingerbread Bath Bomb

This delicious-smelling bath bomb will infuse their next soak with notes of freshly-baked gingerbread. Plus, once it fizzes away, a little surprise (both adult- and kid-friendly) awaits inside!

Target

SpaLife Radiance Eye Masks 3-Pack

These under eye masks wake up tired eyes with vitamin C and coffee – the perfect post-holiday refresh.

Target

Vitamasques Candy Cane Lip Butter Balm

This sweet lip butter smells like a candy cane, all while nourishing dry winter lips. I'll take 5, thanks.

Target

eos Holiday Candy Cane Lip Sugar Scrub

This $5 lip scrub is a total treat to dehydrated, flaky lips. They'll be reaching for it every day!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing gift ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The holidays are great, but they can be pretty taxing on bank accounts. We all want to buy gifts for our friends and families that feel like we went out but don't break the budget. We've worked hard to dig through Amazon and find the hottest gifts of the year that feel like a splurge but are wallet-friendly. No matter who you want to impress with your gifts, we've got what you need. From gadgets to purses to trending kitchen buys, you'll find just what you need to finish your holiday shopping.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Purse Gives a Designer Feel Without a Designer Price

Amazon

Accessories don't have to be a huge, expensive gift. Made from premium vegan leather, this purse brings the style to any outfit, whether they lean more towards casual or upscale.

See it on Amazon

This Hydrating Cuticle Oil Is a Fan Favorite

Amazon

Reviewers rave about the restorative effects of this Cuccio Naturale Revitalizing-Hydrating Oil for Repaired Cuticles. This overnight moisturizing treatment repairs damaged cuticles, leaving them soft, smooth, and healthy.

See it on Amazon

This Winter Scarf Looks Like a Million Bucks

Amazon

They'll reach for this thick scarf on a daily basis. The gorgeous, elegant layer keeps them cozy and stylish whether they pair it with a formal outfit or their favorite tee and jeans combo.

See it on Amazon

A Rainfall Showerhead With Incredible Water Pressure

Amazon

Your giftee can swap out their old showerhead for this rainfall showerhead in just minutes. It's easy to install yourself and provides increased water pressure and a filtered system that's better for your hair and skin.

See it on Amazon

This Set of Bags Keeps Everything Organized

Amazon

Give them the gift of organization with these bags. The set offers two bags that look luxurious and pricey, giving them the perfect place to pack up those smaller necessities and keep them organized.

See it on Amazon

These Earrings Look Like a Luxury Piece

Amazon

Even when it comes to jewelry, you can spend far less and get far more than you think. These heart earrings are a dangling dream, making it look like you spent way too much on their gift.

See it on Amazon

This JBL Speaker Is Made for Adventures

Amazon

This awesome Bluetooth speaker is prepped and ready to go anywhere. The water- and dustproof body and the five hours of playtime make it a great gift for the music lover in your life.

See it on Amazon

These Cocktail Mixers Make Things Simple

Amazon

Gift them these mixers along with a gorgeous set of glasses and you've got a great, upscale gift. The variety pack offers tons of skinny, non-alcoholic flavors they can enjoy on their own or with their favorite liquor.

See it on Amazon

This Teddy Fleece Is So Luxurious

Amazon

Gift them this jacket and give them years of a luxurious look they can style with all their wardrobe favorites. The affordable buy looks like it stepped right off a J.Crew runway!

See it on Amazon

This Mask Is Like a Salon Treatment

Amazon

This awesome Amika hair mask is deeply nourishing and hydrating, helping to restore and heal your hair with every use. Gifting this is like gifting a much more affordable trip to the salon.

See it on Amazon

These Sea Salt Flakes Make Every Meal a Splurge

Amazon

If you've got a chef on your list, amateur or pro, this box of Maldon sea salt flakes is a must-have. The flakes are delicious and rich, adding so much flavor to every meal they make.

See it on Amazon

Elevate Any Look With These Earrings

Amazon

These chunky earrings are 14k gold-filled, hypoallergenic, and beautifully huggie. The set is a thoughtful, affordable option for the friend in your life who likes a little luxurious sparkle.

See it on Amazon

These Cozy Slippers Feel So Bougie

Amazon

These slippers are so soft and warm and look like the sort of slippers you'd pay an entire paycheck to buy. The Amazon Essentials are an affordable way to share a little luxury with friends.

See it on Amazon

These Socks Are the Ultimate Purchase

Amazon

It might seem like a lot of money for socks, but if you have a hiker in your life, they'll be thrilled to get nothing but this pair. The socks last for years, are comfortable, and provide plenty of cushion.

See it on Amazon

This Sol de Janeiro Set Makes the Brand Affordable

Amazon

If you want to gift a pricier product without hurting your bank account, this set of top sellers is a must. Featuring body wash, body butter, and perfume, this set screams "splurge" for a steal.

See it on Amazon

This Packing Cube Set Is So Glamorous

Amazon

The traveler on your list is going to fall in love with this set of packing cubes. These Baggu bags don't just organize and store all their essentials; they also add plenty of style to their luggage.

See it on Amazon

This Wallet Is Perfectly Coquette

Amazon

The Coquette Girly in your life is going to love this elegant wallet. With a bright gold bow taking center stage and plenty of storage space inside, this wallet looks so luxurious.

See it on Amazon

Give Them a Good Grip With This Paddle

Amazon

Featuring a cushioned, anti-slip grip, this pickleball paddle is a must-have for newbies and pros alike. The carbon fiber material means they'll be able to use this paddle for years of use.

See it on Amazon

This Initial Necklace Is Beautifully Dainty

Amazon

Jewelry is an easy gift, but it's also easy to mess up. This gorgeous, dainty necklace comes at an affordable price and is a great buy for the friend in your life who appreciates a personal touch.

See it on Amazon

This Puzzle Is the Height of Luxury

Amazon

Jonathan Adler is one of the most luxurious brands out there, but this puzzle isn't the splurge it seems. Your style-forward friend is going to love putting together and displaying this piece.

See it on Amazon

A Coffee Table Book Always Looks Fancy

Amazon

Not only does a coffee table book feel like a splurge purchase it also instantly elevates any space it's added to. The Art Book is a beautiful piece that's going to take center stage in the recipient's home.

See it on Amazon

These Glasses Steal the Show

Amazon

Gift them a beautiful tablescape when you give them these crystal glasses. The gorgeous, rich, jewel-toned cups instantly take center stage in anyone's home, no matter their personal style.

See it on Amazon

Give the Gift of Style With These Nails

Amazon

Gift them these Glamnetic nails and they'll have nails not just for weeks, but years. The reusable press-ons are built to last and come in a gorgeous array of colors, patterns, and shapes.

See it on Amazon

This Fishwife Set Is All the Rage

Amazon

The internet is obsessed with Fishwife and all the delicious flavors of tinned fish they have. Give your bestie the gift of delicious flavors and all sorts of cool points when they have visitors over.

See it on Amazon

This Purse Has Plenty of Storage and No Shortage of Style

Amazon

This Amazon Essentials purse looks a lot like some of the fancier, name-brand purses, but it comes in at half the price. Choose from four classic colors and give them something they'll use daily.

See it on Amazon

Elevate Entertaining With These Tapers

Amazon

These stunning tapers steal the show. If you have someone on your list who loves entertaining, they'll love these unscented, long-lasting candles in any color you choose.

See it on Amazon

This Might Be the Ultimate Gym Bag

Amazon

The gym rat in your life is going to love this gorgeous duffle bag. The lightweight bag has a shoe compartment, a pocket for water bottles, and a strap for securing a yoga mat for easy carrying.

See it on Amazon

This Loungewewar Set Feels So Luxurious

Amazon

It might seem like you're splurging on this loungewear set, but it's so affordable! Gift them shorts, a top, and a cozy robe. The waffle-knit fabric is comfortable, breathable, and so trendy.

See it on Amazon

This Brush Is Worth Every Penny

Amazon

It might seem a little pricey, but this Drybar brush is truly worth every penny. This brush can stand out as a gift all on its own, offering easy detangling and silky smooth locks with every use.

See it on Amazon

This Soft Purse Goes With Everything

Amazon

This soft purse matches pretty much any style. Something about the texture and silhouette makes it a classic that won't ever go out of style. Choose from a handful of stunning, exciting colors.

See it on Amazon

This Bowl Dresses Up Their Petware

Amazon

If you love someone who has a pet, you already know how much they'll love this Jonathan Adler bowl. The removable no-skid cover helps minimize messes and spills while the pattern brings the style.

See it on Amazon

This Salad Bowl Instantly Elevates Dinnertime

Amazon

Whether they love to entertain and host or they just love sit-down meals, this glass salad bowl with the included tongs makes such a gorgeous statement piece on their dinner table.

See it on Amazon

This Dumpling Kit Brings the Restaurant to Their Kitchen

Amazon

No need to go out and buy pricey dumplings anymore. This kit gives them not only the chance to make those tasty treats in their home but also to try their hand at a brand new recipe.

See it on Amazon

This Cast Iron Skillet Looks Extra Fancy

Amazon

It might look like the fancier name brands, but this cast iron skillet is so much more affordable than that. The cream color really sells the idea that it's far more expensive than it really is.

See it on Amazon

This Hand Cream Smells Divine

Amazon

The Salt & Stone hand cream feels like an incredibly expensive purchase that you could find at a spa. The cream repairs dry, cracked skin and gives hands the nourishment they need.

See it on Amazon

This Seashell Necklace Is Dreamy

Amazon

If you want to gift them something that feels like a seaside luxury, this necklace is perfect. The shell-shaped pendant, coupled with the gorgeous pearls across the face, makes it look so luxurious.

See it on Amazon

Prepare Smooth, Delicious Espresso With This Tool

Amazon

With this gorgeous espresso pot, they can prepare it the old-fashioned way. This stovetop maker might look pricey, but it comes in under $20 and is a perfect gift alone or paired with some espresso beans.

See it on Amazon

This Candle Is an Internet Sensation

Amazon

The La Jolie Muse candle has been on gift list after gift list this year. This luxury candle makes a stunning gift for anyone on your list, adding not only a beautiful scent to their home but elegant style.

See it on Amazon

These Slippers Are Cozy and Cute

Amazon

Keep their feet toasty and warm for years with these slippers. The sherpa look, coupled with the lightweight, barefoot-style soles, makes them comfortable to be in all throughout the day.

See it on Amazon

This Glass Skin Set Is a Fabulous Find

Amazon

Your skincare-loving bestie is going to love this COSRX set. The products are made for daily use, gifting them radiant, glowing skin that feels nourished, hydrated, and fresh.

See it on Amazon

This Delicious Variety Pack Is So Tasty

Amazon

This Tony's Chocolonely bundle is such a sweet gift for the candy lover in your world. The chocolate is cruelty-free, made with plant-based ingredients, and chock full of flavor.

See it on Amazon

Complement Those Meals With This Olive Oil

Amazon

The internet is obsessed with this oil! This delicious extra virgin olive oil is always fresh and never blended, offering a bold, even taste that adds the finishing touches to their favorite meals.

See it on Amazon