It’s not what you think. At least, not entirely. Forest bathing may sound like you’re about to jump into a creek like a puppy in the summertime, but trust us — there’s no getting naked, and this Japanese tradition is set to be your new favorite self-care ritual. Shinrin-yoku began in Japan back in the 1980s, and in the intervening decades it’s found its way from South Korea to Europe and is now sweeping the US spa community.
Everyone deals with family issues, but some people had more dysfunctional childhoods than others. Are there ways to tell? According to family psychologist Caitlin Slavens of Mamapsychologistsand therapist Rachel D. Miller, Ph.D., LMFT of Hold The Vision Therapy, yes!
Slavens says, "As a family psychologist, I’ve seen how growing up in a dysfunctional family leaves its mark. Sometimes the signs are glaring, like obvious chaos or neglect." However, she said the signs can also be "more subtle" being that they're "things you don’t even realize were 'off' until you’re older." You may even "start noticing patterns in yourself or your relationships" if you've become retrospective, according to her.
Here are all the subtle signs you grew up in a dysfunctional family
1. You're never sure what kind of mood your parents will be in before you walk in the living room or kitchen.
Let's put this on record: parenting is tough — especially on top of trying to maintain a work-life balance. But, this doesn't mean you're meant to be unsure of what to expect every time you come around your parents. If you have to "'read the room'" a lot "before speaking," Slavens indicates this is one of the more subtle signs of dysfunction.
This is where you may have learned how to become passive-aggressive if that's something you struggle with. The reason for this is because "clear and direct communication is avoided and/or seen as bad or aggressive," according to Dr. Miller.
2. You tend to feel like you're constantly compared to and in competition with your siblings.
My heart truly wants to believe this isn't intentional behavior from parents, but I can't say I haven't heard people talk about feeling like they'd never measure up to the 'golden child' of their family. You may have felt insecure about your grades, the college you chose to go to, your career goals, or even your physical appearance. Slavens says this "struggle with self-worth or second-guessing yourself constantly" is yet another sign that your family's dynamic wasn't the healthiest.
Also, Dr. Miller says this could've caused you to learn to "shrink yourself in the presence of loved ones." Even worse, you may "feel the need to hide pieces of yourself in order to be loved and accepted."
3. There was constant yelling and screaming during arguments, making you fearful of disagreements or hardships.
If you grew up in a home where arguments always led to screaming and yelling, chances are you're not a fan of loud voices or hard moments. Honestly, Slavens says it's not hard to believe that "conflict make you anxious, even when it’s minor." Unsurprisingly, you may have become a referee during these arguments and currently find yourself being a mediator in your platonic or romantic relationships. Why?
Dr. Miller says, "You constantly feel the need to manage everyone else’s emotions often at the cost of your own needs and wellbeing." You know, to keep the peace.
Here are some more obvious signs you grew up in a dysfunctional family
4. You had to take on a parental role when one of your parents decided to stop being an adult.
I imagine that having an emotionally immature parent is one of the most aggravating and stressful things to deal with. Not only that, but you may have had to help keep the household afloat. You may have had to get a job or two to help pay bills, listening to an adult conversation as your mom or dad laid their problems at your young feet, and more!
If you "family roles were flipped" and you "maybe had to parent your own parents," Slavens says this is a form of emotional dysfunction.
5. You weren't allowed to go anywhere with your friends because your parents wanted to keep an eye on you at all times.
Slavens says boundaries that "didn't exist" or "were rigid and controlling" is a sign your home was a little...interesting. Being concerned about your whereabouts is one thing, but it's another when you're unable to do anything without your parents' eagle-eyes on you. Something as simple as going to the mall with your friends may have become a lecture about the dangers of shoplifting or car wrecks. Again, these are valid concerns but they shouldn't be treated like the verbal form of doom scrolling.
6. You consistently witnessed one of your parents abuse alcohol or drugs at home.
This is a tough because substance abuse is so prevalent in varies socioeconomic statuses and communities. From the functioning alcoholic to the one who becomes belligerent after they've had too much to drink, it always affects those around them. Slavens says if "there was ongoing neglect, substance abuse, or verbal/physical aggression," your home probably didn't safe.
I recognize some of these signs of a dysfunctional family. But that doesn't mean they're affecting my current relationships, right?
I hate to break it to you, but it's possible your childhood wounds have shown up before. "Dysfunctional dynamics don’t stay in childhood — they tend to creep into how you connect with others," says Slavens. Similarly, Dr. Miller agrees that "we typically repeat what we learned at home with our families in our other relationships." How?
"This includes the beliefs and rules we follow, often completely subconsciously, about what can and can’t talk about and why, as well as what emotions are allowed to be expressed, who can express them and how, and how we should or must respond to those people and their emotions," explains Dr. Miller.
Another way to look at this is how Slavens has outlined it:
In Platonic Relationships:
- Overextending yourself to please others, even at your own expense
- Feeling like you have to "earn your friends' affections.
- Avoiding vulnerability because it feels unsafe.
In Romantic Relationships:
- Struggling to trust your partner or feeling overly suspicious
- Repeating patterns like dating people who are emotionally unavailable or controlling.
- Feeling overly responsible for your partner's happiness — or relying on them for yours.
OMG! How do I unlearn habits from my dysfunctional family?
Honestly, everyone has a few bad habits they've carried from their childhood to adulthood. You're not an outlier because some things weren't 100% normal so I don't want you to feel like you're a failure for not having having it all together. "Dysfunction doesn’t have to define your future relationships," Slavens assures. Dr. Miller says you can start to unlearn things "that aren't working for you anymore" by "gathering your family's larger context to gain insight into how and why, for them, the behaviors make sense."
By taking a look at your family's "history and larger social and political contexts" gives you a chance to "see them as whole people with full lives," she says. Once you do that, she believes "you can examine what pieces make sense for you to keep and what parts you'd like to learn to do differently." Her other suggestion? Don't forget you're ability to utilize a "therapist who works systemically, like an LMFT" who "can be a huge support in this process."
Slavens' tips include the following:
- Practice self-awareness: Notice when a response feels automatic — like people-pleasing or shutting down during conflict — and ask yourself, Is this helping me, or is this a leftover habit from the past?
- Set boundaries: If your childhood lacked healthy boundaries, learning to say “no” without guilt is a game-changer. Boundaries protect your energy and teach others how to treat you.
- Learn healthy conflict skills: If conflict made you feel unsafe growing up, it’s natural to avoid it. But healthy conflict is necessary in relationships. Practice expressing your needs calmly and directly.
- Therapy, therapy, therapy: A good therapist can help untangle the messy, “weird” things that got normalized and give you tools to rebuild healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
- Surround yourself with healthier models: Whether it’s friends, mentors, or books/podcasts, seek examples of functional relationships and start observing what feels different.
While you're busy unlearning things, Dr. Miller also wants you to remember something. "Recognize that how your family does something is simply that; how your particular family system figured out and were taught to navigate the world. It isn’t inherently right because you’ve normalized it nor is the way another person or family does it inherently wrong," she says.
Slavens' final thoughts? "It’s not about blaming your family but recognizing how your experiences shaped you — and giving yourself permission to do things differently. You’re allowed to rewrite the script."
Visit the top signs to recognize if you have toxic friends on Brit + Co!
8 Simple Ways To Keep The "Spark" In Your Marriage, According To A Relationship Therapist
Dec 19, 2024
Life comes at you fast when you're in love, while you're juggling career goals, pets, babies, friends, family, and whatever else folded in to your very, very filled cup. One minute you and your spouse can't enough of each other, but then time passes and you might start to feel like you're roommates. "Ugh, what is that about," is a question I used to ask when my own relationship's spark felt like tiny embers amongst our ever-growing responsibilities. Licensed psychotherapist Lucas Saiter, LMHC, owner and director of Manhattan Therapy NYC, says, "It's crucial for couples to acknowledge periods of disconnection without judgement."
According to him, you can start "by having an open conversation about feeling disconnected" which is a "positive step" in the desired direction. But, he wants this to happen during "a calm moment" instead of "during a conflict or when there are distractions."
The ultimate goal is for "each partner" to feel like they have "the opportunity to express their feelings openly and honestly, using 'I' statements to avoid blaming, while the other partner actively listens without interrupting or getting defensive," according to him.
TK ways to renew your marriage when you're busy checking off your to-do list
Your marriage isn't doomed because you feel like it's gotten off track. Saiter says, "Rekindling the spark in a marriage goes beyond physical intimacy; it's about creating emotional closeness and shared experiences. Couples can focus on deep, meaningful conversations that go beyond the day-to-day logistics."
1. If you don't cook often, surprise your spouse with their favorite dinner recipe.
Saiter says you or your spouse "can make time for small gestures of kindness and thoughtfulness, like cooking" each other's "favorite meal." We don't know everything, but we're aware that home-cooked meals mean a lot to some people. Eating out is fun, but seeing someone put time and effort into a meal for you feels more personal.
2. Allow your partner to sleep in while you handle bank runs, grocery shopping, and other chores.
One of the other ways to each other's heart is "...running errands to show love and appreciation," according to Saiter. This can look like letting your partner rest while you handle early morning visits to the bank or grocery store before traffic picks up on the weekend.
Setting aside time for shared hobbies or interests can also be incredibly rejuvenating. For instance, taking a class together, whether it’s cooking, dancing, or photography, can help in discovering new aspects of each other and create fun, shared memories.
3. Sign up for a dance or photography class together.
If you've been thinking about taking a cooking, wine, dance, or photography class together, now's the time to do so! Saiter says, "Setting aside time for shared hobbies or interests can also be incredibly rejuvenating." Before you roll your eyes because you think you and your spouse don't have anything in common anymore, take a step back to remember what it was like when you were dating.
You probably went on different dates like going to the bowling alley, visiting a pumpkin patch, or even taking a candle class together for fun. Doing this again "can help in discovering new aspects of each other and create fun, shared memories," according to Saiter.
4. Verbally share why you're grateful for each other.
Yes, it's time for you and your spouse to remember why you chose to exchange vows. "...practicing gratitude by regularly expressing appreciation for each other's qualities and contributions can strengthen the emotional bond and bring back the warmth and closeness," Saiter says.
You can tell your partner you appreciate the times they've sensed something was wrong and knew just what to say to cheer you up. Also, you could simply thank them for remembering to take out the trash without you having to ask.
There's no rulebook that says expressing thanks for each other has to be elaborate and drawn out. It's just something to help you remember how much you see each other.
5. Set aside time to hold hands or cuddle everyday.
If you or your spouse are experiencing a drop in your libido, physical intimacy be hard to navigate. Saiter says, "Overcoming a 'dry spell' requires open communication and a willingness to explore underlying issues." As difficult as it may be, don't be afraid to express concerns because "there are many feelings and unsaid wants underneath the 'dry spell,'" he adds.
Doing something as simple as "prioritizing physical, non-sexual touch" is one way way Saiter believes can help you and your spouse become close again. You do things like "holding hands, cuddling, or sharing a long hug," to add a little spark back to what you had.
6. Pencil in date nights.
How many times have your or spouse asked, "Who has time for date night?" Wait, we don't want to know because chances are one of you have said it one too many times to count. Saiter says, "Planning regular date nights or weekends away can also help break the routine and create a sense of adventure in the relationship."
Communicating and being open to trying new things in the bedroom, like role-playing, using toys, or trying new positions, can also reignite the spark and make things exciting again.
You can also try revisiting places or activities that were significant earlier in your relationship to evoke nostalgic, passionate feelings and remind you both of your deep connection.
7. Let your adventurous side show in the bedroom.
If one of you are comfortable initiating sex again, let your fun side call the shots. However, Saiter wants to make sure you're "communicating" before surprising your spouse. "...being open to trying new things in the bedroom, like role-playing, using toys, or trying new positions" is one of the ways he thinks you can reconnect behind closed doors. It's all about finding safe ways to "reignite the spark and make things exciting again," he shares!
8. Revisit the place you fell in love with your spouse.
If you remember the exact time and place you knew your spouse was the one, Saiter suggests revisiting it to "evoke nostalgic, passionate feelings and remind you both of your deep connection." Whether it was at your local pizza parlor, the park, or even at a place like Disney World, find your why again.
My spouse and I are doing great after incorporating these tips, but how can we stay consistent?
Saiter says, "Life gets busy, but it’s crucial to carve out time for each other. Treat it like any other important appointment—block off time in your schedule for date nights, family dinners, or just time relaxing together." Maybe you think it should sound so simple, but it is. Like Saiter says, you have to prioritize your marriage just like you do everything and everyone else.
Ways to help you do so are limiting "distractions by putting away phones and other devices" to "talk about your dreams, unwind together or simply enjoy each other's company," he adds. Still struggling?
"It might also be helpful to look over your daily responsibilities together to make sure the workload at home is shared fairly. Building a strong and fulfilling relationship takes effort and commitment. By prioritizing your partner, communicating openly, and making time for each other, you can strengthen your bond and reignite the spark," Saiter suggests.
All in all, Saiter believes "seeking couples counseling can be a great step toward getting the conversation flowing," if you and your spouse are still having trouble finding the spark in your marriage.
Visit more of our stories about relationships for dating, friendship, and family tips!
You and your friends have likely spent countless hours together, decoding everything from imaginationships to the best comfort shows to watch when you're sad. You've probably even settled into a designated role within the group. Maybe you're the super adventurous one, always suggesting friend date ideas for the group to try, while someone else always knows how to comfort everyone when life gets rough. But, have you ever wondered if you're the most empathetic friend in the group? That's easy, just ask Brianna Paruolo, LCMCH. She's the founder and clinical director of On Par Therapyso she knows how to recognize signs you're an empath, plus how to take care of yourself!
How To Know If You're An Empath
- Empathy is when "you feel what others are feeling."
- There are physical, emotional, social, and mental signs that you're an empath.
- You may be an empath if you get physically exhausted after being in crowds, feel anxious or overwhelmed in emotionally charged environments, feel responsible for other people's happiness, or you find it hard to distinguish your own feelings from someone else's.
Are there really assigned roles in friend groups or am I just imagining things?
Like I said before, it can seem like you and your friends unintentionally gravitate toward certain 'roles.' It's not like anyone woke up one day and decided, "I'm going to be the 'mother hen' of the group," but it tends to happen. Why?
Paruolo says, "In my clinical work, I've consistently observed that our friendship roles often mirror our early family dynamics. These patterns show up naturally — think about who in your friend group gets the first crisis call, who plans all the gatherings, or who everyone turns to for emotional support." I'm willing to bet you thought of a name for each scenario — including yours — because I know I did!
"Like in families, we each fall into specific roles that feel familiar to us," Paruolo further explains.
What actually makes someone an empathetic person?
There's so many definitions for empathy, but I thought it would be wise to ask a licensed professional for her opinion on the matter. "Empathy means to feel what others are feeling. You do not have to have a personal direct experience with something to feel empathy for another person," shares Paruolo.
For example, your friend could call to tell you she has to have fibroid removal surgery and is feeling scared. You may have never had surgery, but you could find yourself feeling the need to comfort her in spite of this. Paruolo says, "The cool thing about our brains is that we have mirror neurons, which means part of our brain is set up to feel what others feel. The ability to attune to others' emotional states comes naturally to some people, while others may need to develop this capacity more consciously."
To break it down even further, here's signs that Paruolo says point to your empathetic nature.
Physical Signs:
- Getting physically exhausted after being in crowds
- Feeling drained after social interactions, even enjoyable ones (OMG I feel so seen!)
- Needing extra time alone to recharge
Emotional Signs:
- Absorbing other people's emotions like a sponge
- Feeling anxious or overwhelmed in emotionally charged environments
- Finding it hard to watch violence or cruelty in movies/TV
Social Signs:
- Feeling responsible for others' happiness
- Having trouble saying "no" to people who need help
Mental Signs:
- Picking up on subtle changes in others' moods
- Being highly attuned to body language and tone
- Finding it hard to distinguish your feelings from others' feelings
It sounds like I'm the empathetic friend, but are there any downsides to this?
I've been an empath for as long as I can remember and I've found that I have to 'recharge' my social batteries at times. I thought it was because I was trying to be superwoman by fixing others' problems, but it turns out theres more to it than that. Paruolo says, "Empathetic friends and people have an uncanny ability to sense others' emotional states even when unspoken, and frequently need recovery time after intense social interactions. They tend to be deeply affected by others' experiences and naturally consider situations from multiple perspectives."
In the long run, she says it can be "distressing" for some people to always feel the feelings of others. Over time, she says, "it can cause you to shut down and retract." This can look like not being as quick to respond to the funny memes your friends send you or not even answering their phone calls right away.
But, this doesn't mean you're the only person who tends to go through this. "Many empaths struggle with maintaining boundaries due to their deep emotional attunement," she says. Color me guilty because this sounds so much like me. It got so bad at one point that my sister nicknamed me 'Captain Save-A-Lot,' which is actually the clean version of what she truly meant. Still, empathy fatigue is no laughing matter nor does it mean you're defected. You just have the natural ability to show people their feelings are important to you.
How can I protect my peace as the empathetic friend?
You know you need to set boundaries, but what does that mean? Paruolo says, "The key is understanding that empathy needs to be balanced with compassion - it's not just about feeling others' emotions but also knowing how to help without depleting yourself."
One of the things she loves to do is "encourage empaths to set clear boundaries around their emotional availability and make time for regular grounding exercises." As with gratitude journaling, try to focus on an activity that calls for you to be present. Focus on what you can hear, see, touch, taste, and smell.
"Self-care isn't just a luxury; it's essential maintenance for empaths. This might mean scheduling alone time, finding a supportive therapist, or joining communities where you can process your experiences," Paruolo implores.
I know how to be there for others, but how do I ask for emotional support when I need it?
You may feel like it's impossible to ask others for help since your shoulders are the ones people cry on, but you're only doing yourself a disservice by not speaking up. No one's super resilient or able to handle all of their distressing feelings alone. We're not meant to.
It's the reason Paruolo wants you to speak up about what you need. "The most effective approach I've seen is being direct about your needs rather than hoping others will figure them out," she says. I made this mistake during postpartum and found myself expecting my family & friends to know exactly how I felt, but they're not mind readers. The more I verbally asked for help with little or big tasks, the more my mental and emotional load lightened.
Paruolo wants you to look at "asking for support as strengthening your friendships through trust and vulnerability, instead of waiting until you're overwhelmed." By the time you reach that point, you'll be ready to enter rage or full-blown shut down mode and they're not fun.
Avoid unlocking their proverbial doors by scheduling "regular check-ins with trusted friends," suggests Paruolo. "This creates a sustainable support system and helps prevent emotional crisis points.
We have even more self-care stories for you to dive into if you need a mental and emotional boost!
Picking the perfect name for your baby can feel like a mix of excitement (it's a big deal!) and pressure. You want something you love that feels unique and also has some meaning — but you haven’t even met the little person whose name it will be for the rest of their life?! Plus, you and your partner have to agree on a name, which can make the whole process feel daunting.
Before we even knew we were having a girl, my partner and I struggled to agree on boy names. But naming my daughter was surprisingly easy. That was settled on our first date — Matilda was a name he had always loved and I came to love it too.
If you’re still on the hunt for the one, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here are 75+ baby names set to trend in 2025. According to Baby Center, this year’s big inspirations come from pop culture, sports, and celestial themes. Music-inspired picks like Chappell and Kendrick are climbing the charts, while sports stars Caitlin and Travis are making waves as top contenders in the babe department too. Ready for some fresh baby name ideas? Let’s dive in!The Top Trending Baby Names
Andie
This cute name, from the Greek name Andreas, means "strong" or "manly" but I also think it makes a great feminine name (Andie MacDowell, anyone?).
Apple
Apple Martin's debut in Paris may have sparked baby name buzz inspired by the symbol of love, beauty, and wisdom.
Arlette
This combo of French words meaning "lion" and "of God" conveys something fierce, as well as divine protection.
Arthur
Arthur has multiple meanings, including "bear-like" (cute), "of honor," and "strong man."
Aurora
This mystical name means "dawn" in Latin. It also has Sleeping Beauty vibes.
Beckam
"Beck" means "brook" while "ham" means "home." Either way, it's a strong name from soccer + Spice Girls fame.
Billie
Billie Holiday or Billie Eilish, you've got good role models covered. This British and German name means "protection," and it's short for William or Wilhelmina.
Boden
Bode comes from the Old Saxon word bodo meaning "messenger."
Bodhi
This very spiritual name means "final enlightenment," or your way to Nirvaṇa.
Caitlin
This popular name, thanks to WNBA player Caitlin Clark, is derived from the Gaelic term caith, meaning "pure."
Carmen
Wine lovers? This name means "garden" or "vineyard."
Casey
"Brave" and "vigilant" are words that make up the gender-neutral name Casey.
Chappell
Chappell was an Old English name meaning “one who works at the chapel," but it can also mean a safe space for friends and family.
Circe
For those who loved the book Circe, the origins of this name make sense: a feminine name of Greek origin meaning "to secure with rings" and a symbol of feminine strength and individuality.
Cove
This sensory name can mean "bold" and "courageous." It's a great one for coastal lovers!
Crew
The name Crew signifies unity and collective strength.
Edgar
Edgar comes from the Anglo-Saxon words meaning "rich or prosperous" and "spear."
Eclipse
Astrology lovers might lean into this name that signifies seeking change and ushering in evolution.
Elodie
This French name means "wealthy" or "riches."
Emir
Emir comes from an Arabic word for "commander" or "prince."
Emrys
This gender-neutral Welsh name means "immortal."
George/Georgia
These classic names comes from the Greek word georgos, or earth worker, and are inspired by the dragon-slaying knight Saint George.
Goldie
Goldie means "gold" and cues visions of the lovable actress Goldie Hawn.
Hallie
A variant of the name "Hayley," this actually ancient name is short for the word "Hallelujah."
Hazel
In Celtic lore, Hazel is associated with "wisdom" and "inspiration."
Holden
This Anglo-Saxon name means "deep valley," and may have originated from places with the same name around England.
Hollis
This gender-neutral name from medieval England translates to "near the holly" or "one who lives by the holly tree." Might be fun to plant a holly tree when they're born!
Hugo
This Germanic name means "mind," "intellect," "thought," and "heart." All good things.
Isaiah
This masculine Hebrew name means "salvation of the Lord."
Ivy
A simple three-letter name, this name implies fidelity (so v. loyal) and eternal life because of the plant's gorgeous green color.
Johanna
This name has origins in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin and means "God is gracious."
Jolie
This sweet French names comes from the word joli, which means “pretty” or “agreeable.”
Juniper
Juniper, or Juni for short, represents "hope" and "warmth."
Juno
Hailing from the Latins, Juno means "queen of the gods" and "youthful," and was the inspiration for naming the month of June. Due date, anyone?
Kai
In Hawaiian, Kai means "sea."
Kendrick
From Old English words meaning "bold" or "brave", Kendrick can mean "bold ruler."
Kira
The feminine form of the name Kir, means "mistress" or "ruler" and the masculine form means "a beam of light."
Kit
Kit actually derives from the names Christopher and Katherine and means “bearing Christ,” or "pure."
Lorelai
Gilmore Girls fans will love this Germanic name meaning "alluring" and "enchantress" or "sorceress."
Lottie
This English name means "free."
Louise/Louis
The name Louise means "famous warrior" and is the feminine version of the name Louis.
Luna
Meaning "moon" in Spanish, Luna is often associated with mystery, beauty, and femininity.
Margot
Inspired by our favorite Barbie, this French name means "pearl."
Mateo
This Spanish name, a version of the English Matthew, means "gift of God."
Miller
Miller means someone who grinds grain and operates a mill, but it's also very cute.
Nash
I also love Dash, but this name of English origin means "by the ash tree."
Nova
Inspired by the astronomical event that causes the sudden appearance of a bright light, this name can mean "new" star.
Opal
This gem is a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.
Otis
Music lovers, this masculine name means "wealthy" and can be associated with prosperity.
Otto
Otto is a masculine name of German origin that means "wealth" or "prosperity."
Ozzy
Ozzy is a shortened version of names like Oswald or Osborne, and has a connection to a deity or divine entity.
Palmer
Palmer is a name meaning palm bearer or pilgrim, inspired by Christian pilgrims who traditionally carried the palms.
Paloma
The Spanish word for dove, Paloma is associated with peace, love, and spirituality.
Raphael
This classic name of Hebrew origin means "God has healed."
Rain
Rain can mean life, growth, and renewal, but it can also represent sadness, loss, and despair. Let's go with the positive association.;)
Remi
Meaning "rower" derived from Latin, this name can also mean "God comforts me."
Riley
"Courageous and "valiant" are words that come to mind for Riley.
Ripley
For The Talented Mr. Ripley (AKA Jude Law) fans, this gender-neutral name means "meadow" or "clearing" and it goes back as far as the 12th century!
Rocky
Cue the Rocky theme song, this name is often associated with strength, resilience, and a steadfast nature.
Sabrina
The Celtic word "saber" means "water," which may be the origin of this name.
Saoirse (pronounced "SEER-shə" or "SUR-shə")
Made popular in places other than Ireland by Saoirse Ronan, the Irish female name means "freedom" or "liberty".
Santiago
This name combines the Spanish words santo, meaning "saint", and Iago, a variation of the name James.
Scottie
This Scottish name literally means "from Scotland" or "Gaelic speaker".
Sol/Soleil
Sol is the Spanish word for "sun," as is Soleil in French.
Stone
Cool, calm, and collected (like a rock) is the essence of this British name.
Tate
Happy baby! This English name means "cheerful" and it's gender-neutral.
Teddy
This masculine name of French origin means "wealthy protector" or "God's gift." (I'm seeing a trend here.)
Travis
Our girl's favorite guy is getting baby-name popular with this Old French word meaning "to traverse" or "to cross".
Van
From the Old Dutch word van, this cool baby name means "from the marsh."
Veda
This girl's name of Sanskrit origin means "knowledge" or "wisdom".
Viviana
This Italian name means "alive" or "full of life." Vivi for short!
Warren
Warren can mean "to protect" or "guard."
Walton
This masculine name of English origin means "town of walls" or "city of streams or wood."
Wesley
This English name means "western meadow".
Wilder
Wild child? This name means "untamed" or "wild," and also eager or enthusiastic. I can totally picture Wilder climbing everything!
Zaida
This Arabic name, generally for girls, means "fortunate," "prosperous," and "abundant."
Zara
This pretty name means "blooming flower" or "radiance."
Zephyr
This gender-neutral name comes from the Greek word zephyros, which means "gentle breeze".
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Are people born wicked? Maybe not, but with the right makeup products, you can be as wonderfully wicked as Elphaba herself. Despite being the Wicked Witch of the West, she's a brave and sweet sorceress, and her feisty spirit inspires us. With these glamorous green products, you can embody Elphaba and be as wicked as you want. Why be good when you can be green?
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See it on AmazonElevate and Levitate in Shamrock Eyeshadow
Amazon
Uplift your eyes with this vibrant shamrock single-palette eyeshadow. The color is unbelievably deep, offering a bold look with a soothing and silky texture. The high color payoff means a little goes a long way, just like Elphaba's magic.
See it on AmazonGreen Face Glitter to Sparkle With Magic
Amazon
Use these six face glitters to create beguiling makeup looks that twinkle more than the Emerald City. The hues range from seafoam to fern, and the sparkles come in cute shapes, like four-leaf clovers, giving your look a touch of luck.
See it on AmazonStun and Shine With Face Jewels
Amazon
With these luxurious stick-on gems, you can create gorgeous and magical makeup looks. They stick on firmly, even if you have makeup on underneath. Make yourself look like a formidable witch with these stunning and eye-catching gems.
See it on AmazonMake Green the New Black With This Mascara
Amazon
This dark green mascara is a sophisticated and striking way to embody Elphaba's emerald aura. The arresting look this mascara creates is rich enough for people to notice but classy enough for you to wear with everyday outfits.
See it on AmazonDefy Gravity With These Dramatic Green Eye Lashes
Amazon
Take your Elphaba look to the next level with these fluffy and dramatic faux lashes. They have a mix of soft green and black lashes, creating an alluring vibe that feels witchy and adventurous.
See it on AmazonGet in the Green With This Body Paint
Amazon
Bathe yourself in emerald green with this full coverage body paint stick. The formula is packed with green pigments for a daring green color that no one can ignore. The audacious hue is perfect for costumes, as well as fearless makeup looks.
See it on AmazonCast a Green Spell in Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow
Amazon
Use this cream eyeshadow to create velvety and decadent looks that are as mighty as Elphaba herself. The crease-proof, long-lasting formula means this deep forest hue will last through everything, from meeting the Wizard to defying gravity.
See it on AmazonSteal the Limelight With This Eye Shadow Palette
Amazon
This eyeshadow palette is all about that bright and light lime green. It features nine shades, including chartreuse, olive, sage, pistachio, and glittery options to make you shine. And with a sparkly black color, you can create moody, dark looks, too.
See it on AmazonBuild an Army in Maybelline Eyeshadow
Amazon
Elphaba's army of monkeys may have been an accident, but you can create fierce army-inspired looks with this green eyeshadow. The commanding dark green can be used to create subtle Elphaba styles or layered on for a loud look.
See it on AmazonAdd Volume and Verve With M.A.C. Plumping Gloss Stick
Amazon
Try this plumping lip gloss in Like Squirt lime green to add a subtle green tint to your lips while upping the volume. Your lips will look wickedly plump and pretty with just a hint of Elphaba.
See it on AmazonBe an Enigma in Lancôme Eyeliner
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It's time to try... this long-lasting eyeliner pencil for mystic makeup looks. You can also use this eyeliner as an eyeshadow for extra dramatic looks that make you stand out from the crowd. With a hint of sparkle, the metallic olive hue is supremely spellbinding.
See it on AmazonLight Eyeshadow for a Supernatural Style
Amazon
This single eyeshadow palette has a delicate green hue that embodies Elphaba's softer side. Green doesn't always have to be wicked, and this ultra-blendable mint green offers a gentle hue that lets you be good (sort of like Glinda).
See it on AmazonCast Spells With This Holographic Nail Polish
Amazon
Embody Elphana down to your nails with this brilliant green nail polish. The lime green color has a holographic quality, so it glimmers and sparkles with zest as you move in the light. You'll have witchcraft at your fingertips.
See it on AmazonBe Secretly Wicked Using the e.l.f. Camo Color Corrector
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If your skin tends to have a red hue, you can even out the tone with an Elphaba-inspired green color corrector. A few dabs of this can hide that redness, and you can embrace the green vibes every day.
See it on AmazonEmerald Elegance in Matte Lipstick
Amazon
This green lipstick has a completely matte texture and a forest green shade for a sultry style. The creamy feel means you'll want to wear it every day. Thanks to the super-saturated hue, everyone will know that you're Team Elphaba.
See it on AmazonHave Emerald Visions With e.l.f. Metallic Eyeshadow
Amazon
You can be as green as the Emerald City in this shimmery liquid eyeshadow with a metallic texture. With one swipe, you'll have highly pigmented eyeshadow looks that last all day. This high-shine formula conjures confidence so you can be yourself.
See it on AmazonCover Yourself in This Green Body Glitter
Amazon
Consider this your comprehensive Elphaba product. The holographic green body glitter has thick, chunky sparkles that make a big impact. You can use this for everything, from your lips to hips to eyes to thighs.
See it on AmazonConjure Classy Looks With Estée Lauder Gel Eyeliner
Amazon
With a sharp shamrock color and silky feel, this gel eyeliner is all you need to summon the spirit of Elphaba. The pigmented and luxe hue can empower and inspire you to infuse emerald magic in every makeup look.
See it on AmazonBreak the Rules in Metallic Eyeliner and Eyeshadow
Amazon
Use this eyeshadow and eyeliner pencil to create multi-chrome effects and bewitching looks that defy norms. The chrome texture also gives you a spectrum of green shades all at once. The smooth application and 24-hour wear allow you to endlessly channel Elphaba.
See it on AmazonThe Powerful and Pretty Jade Eyeshadow
Amazon
This sultry eyeshadow has a slight shimmer and gentle color that is wonderful for every kind of occasion. It works with all skin tones and has a clean formula that won't irritate your skin. You can also use it to add some envious green to your cheeks.
See it on AmazonSage and Subtle Urban Decay Eyeliner
Amazon
Create wicked undertones with this understated eyeliner pencil. It has a delicate sage color that works with casual and everyday looks, as well as dramatic designs for a night out. With hydrating Vitamin E and Jojoba oil, it magically moisturizes, too.
See it on AmazonYour Future Is Unlimited With This Pencil Set
Amazon
This set of four green eyeliner and eyeshadow pencils can help you create striking and rebellious Elphaba looks. The lime green, shamrock, emerald, and pine colors mean you can be as bright or as dark as your mood and create unlimited designs.
See it on AmazonBe a Force in Forest Green Matte Paint
Amazon
If you want a versatile green product that will defy expectations, this is it. This paint stick can be used to greenify everything, from your lips to your eyelids to your entire face. It's a dynamic product that gives you a velvety matte appearance with effortless full coverage.
See it on AmazonBe a Little Wild in This Jungle Green Eyeshadow
Amazon
The jungle green eyeshadow hits all the right notes — it's long-lasting, highly pigmented, soft and smooth, and ultra-blendable. Use it for refined looks or flashy designs. It's as edgy as Elphaba and as glamorous as Glinda, balancing wicked with good.
See it on AmazonBe Loudly and Proudly Green With This Covergirl Lipstain
Amazon
This lightweight, buildable lipstain in Zom-Bean green is perfect if you want to embody Elphaba's bright green color. It's a chic green that will turn heads and make you look unapologetically fierce with a Wicked Witch glow.
See it on AmazonLiquid Lipstick for the Witching Hour
Amazon
If you want wickedly dark green lips, it doesn't get better than this luxurious liquid lipstick. It's a deep emerald hue that will make others green with envy. The lush texture has a hint of luminescence for a stunning 3D appearance.
See it on AmazonNYX Liquid Eyeshadow for Strong Sorceresses
Amazon
Keep that Elphaba energy all day long with this robust liquid eyeshadow. The vivid emerald hue is unmatched, giving you the magic to glow wherever you go. And it's formulated with vitamin C to soothe your skin, enriching your eyes every time you wear it.
See it on AmazonBe That Girl in Liquid Eyeliner
Amazon
This emerald green glittery liquid eyeliner creates bewitching makeup looks, whether you go for a simple line or over-the-top flourish. The precision tip makes it easy to curate artistic looks that rival the makeup on the set of "Wicked".
See it on AmazonBe Radiant and Rebellious in Bright Eyeshadow
Amazon
This eyeshadow palette features dazzling green hues ranging from lush avocado to pearlescent clover. With a wave of your wand (makeup brush), you can enchant your eyes with these blendable colors to conjure the perfect shade of green.
See it on AmazonCreate Quirky and Wicked Looks in These Eyelashes With Green Ends
Amazon
These funky lashes are green on the outside edges for an asymmetrical and distinct look. The 3D volume effect makes them impossible to ignore, just like Elphaba and her green skin. They're reusable up to 15 wears, so you can channel your wicked vibes again and again.
See it on AmazonStriking Eyeshadow for an Emerald Edge
Amazon
These green eyesahdow shades are highly pigmented for spirited Elphaba looks that will wow everyone. A mix of glimmering and matte green hues allows you to create elegant and dramatic looks that are as fabulous as the Emerald City.
See it on AmazonThe Alchemy of NYX Chromatic Lip Gloss
Amazon
Give every look a glimmer of Elphaba with this soft pistachio lip gloss. The chrome texture makes your lips shiny and whimsical, but the delicate hue is refined enough for fun daytime looks. Enjoy pearly green lips with a buttery feel.
See it on AmazonMake a Show-Stopping Statement in Metallic Lipstick
Amazon
This metallic green lipstick has a confident emerald color that stops the show. The shimmery metallic quality is irresistible and conjures lustrous and enchanting looks. The moisturizing formula makes it easy to wear all day and into the night.
See it on Amazone.l.f. Face Primer To Be Green Every Day
Amazon
Make green part of your daily routine with this tone-adjusting face primer. The swamp green color can magically even out any redness in your skin tone, giving you a beautiful foundation to try unlimited makeup looks, because you're unlimited.
See it on AmazonHighlighter to Make Your Skin Green With Envy
Amazon
We love this soft green highlighter for more subtle Elpaha-inspired looks. It's a pale shade of green, resembling a light sage hue, but the radiant highlighter effect is otherworldly. It's the perfect way to add a touch of wickedness to your daily look.
See it on AmazonWickedly Chic Emerald Mascara
Amazon
This shamrock masacara has a vibrant hue that will enhance any makeup look. It's a volumizing formula that will fluff up your lashes for a thick, full appearance. And the long-wear formula means you can defy gravity all day long.
See it on AmazonUse These Rhinestones to Adorn Yourself With Emeralds
Amazon
For a trendy and glowing Elphaba aesthetic, use these glow-in-the-dark green rhinestones. You can create fantastical and unique makeup looks by dotting them around your eyes, on your cheeks, and even on your hands.
See it on AmazonMeet the Wizard in L’Oréal Paris Eyeliner
Amazon
This spellbinding emerald felt eyeliner has a precision tip that makes it effortless to apply. The chromatic texture and vivid hue allow you to cast potent makeup spells and create alluring looks that will impress everyone, even the Wizard.
See it on AmazonVisit the Emerald City With This Mixed Eyeshadow Palette
Amazon
This eyeshadow palette features 15 colors, ranging from lime to dark forest. You can create glistening looks with the twinkling emerald and grass colors, or go for a more elegant vibe using the shamrock and chartreuse matte hues.
See it on AmazonBe a Bad Witch in NYX Eyeliner
Amazon
This jumbo eyeliner pencil has a brilliant green hue that embodies Elphaba with a touch of Glinda's glitter. The matcha green hue can be layered on for a risk-taking appearance or just applied a little for a dainty look.
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