What Getting Rid Of Childhood Stuff Taught Me About Growing Up

getting rid of my childhood stuff

The other day, when I was clearing out my bedroom, I had to literally give my stuffed animals a hug before I could put them in the 'donate' pile. I graduated from college in 2020, and after two and a half years of grief, healing broken relationships, and rearranging my plans time and time again, I am finally moving out of my parents' house next month.


I enjoy organizing but I definitely overestimated my ability to enjoy clearing out every single possession that I own. I had an overactive imagination as a kid and, mixed with my love for toys and Disney movies like Toy Story, I have become a very sentimental person. Clearing my childhood stuff out my bedroom is also a tough task for me because I've never actually wanted to be a grown up.

While it might be a stereotype that kids always want to be older than they are, I used to cry the night before my birthday every year because I loved the magic of childhood, and the passage of time genuinely grieved me — can you tell I've always been existential?

Now that I am actually an adult, getting rid of those items from so long ago is giving me that same feeling that I used to get before my birthday.

All of the stuffed animals and toys from when I was a little girl might not have been used in years, but it's still incredibly hard to part with them. They inspired my imagination, helped grow my empathy, and have always just been there, watching me read, write stories, cry over boys. They've been pretty consistent companions.

All of the memories wrapped up in these belongings — certain trips, birthdays, reunions — makes them feel like keys to my past, like getting rid of them might erase those experiences. But I have to remember that my relationships are stronger than that, and getting rid of a gift from a loved one when it no longer serves me doesn't diminish the time we spent together.

I suppose that getting rid of childhood stuff that I've held on to for so long is scary for a few extra reasons. With the realization that I don't need a stuffed dog from elementary school is the realization that I've left whatever safety and guardrails come with being a child. I now have adult problems with consequences that weren't there before.

Clearing out my bedroom is also forcing myself to sit in the fact that I am actually moving. That my friends' lives will continue without me, that I'm completely starting over. Because as exciting as it is to finally have a chance to follow my dreams, I am scared out of my mind.

It might seem silly to have such strong emotions about something like this, but it's important to sort them out! Regardless of whether you're moving out of your parents house, getting married, or going through another big life change, here are some questions to help you figure out what you're feeling and why. If you're not big on journaling, you can also scrapbook about an experience, or write a poem about your emotions.

  • Why do I care so much about this item?
  • What recent experiences, photos, or memories do I have with the person who gave me this item?
  • Is there someone who could love it better than me?

One thing to remember, however, is that you don't have to get rid of absolutely everything. I have a babydoll that my parents gave me the week I was born (it's still in remarkably good shape) that I will never give away. It's okay to keep certain items that are really and truly irreplaceable.

I'm almost done sorting through everything, and it's a bit like the end of the five stages of grief; I know it will help me accept that I'm entering a new phase of life. It's forcing me to deal with the very idea of change, like giving away my stuffed animals is practice for when I have to say goodbye to my friends and my family.

It's also important to remember that there will be new friends and new memories. It's hard to keep that in mind when all I can think about is the goodbye, but in another year I'll be surrounded by people whom I love just as much as the people in my life now. And that's the great thing about love; it's doesn't diminish when you give it away.

The other night, I was holding a friend's newborn, and I was able to give him that tiny stuffed dog from elementary school. I feel a bit like Andy at the end of Toy Story 3, when he gives Buzz, Woody, and the rest of the gang to Bonnie. Like I have a hand in giving a little bit of magic to the next generation of dreamers, artists, and world changers. Life is a bit full circle in that way.

Let us know on Instagram how you're handling your big life change. You can also follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter for more life advice.

Brie Larson takes wellness very seriously. And considering she's saved the universe as Captain Marvel and fought alongside King Kong in Kong: Skull Island, prioritizing her health only makes sense. I got up close and personal with the Oscar-winning actress at Thorne's Mocktail Club in New York City on October 8, where she told me that in the pursuit of wellness, she's "always" seeking to feel "happy and safe in my body."

  • Brie Larson tells Brit + Co that movement, breathing techniques, and temperature changes help her feel "happy and safe in my body."
  • When it comes to her work, she says she chooses stories with messages she'll "be able to live with for the rest of my life."
  • She also reveals the best piece of advice she's received, and says keeping it in mind "makes things easier."

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

But even Larson has days she feels off, saying she knows that feeling "very well," and whether it's seasonal blues or mental health days, she knows routine is where she thrives — and seasonal affective disorder lamps. "Light is a big game changer for me because I grew up in California," she says.

To engage her other senses, she relies on movement, breathing techniques, and temperature changes to keep in touch with her body. "A hot bath, a cold shower, both — anything that sort of wakes your brain up and kind of jolts it," she says. "I have a pretty demanding schedule and I truly don't have room to not feel like I'm present in my life. And so you come up with ways to figure out how to do that."

That includes everything from drinking plenty of water and prioritizing sleep to packing foam rollers and bands in her carry on. "It looks like a clown bag!" she says. "I always do [those exercises] every morning because even if I don't want to do it, which I always don't want to do it, I feel a lot better after I do it."

Thorne

Admittedly, that's exactly how I feel some days about making breakfast — but a powerhouse like Larson knows how important fueling our bodies is. "Pretty consistently I'm having an egg, like a breakfast sandwich, egg on toast first thing in the morning," she says. "I can't think beyond that for breakfast because I wake up so early. It's like there's no creativity happening in the morning. I'm sorry. No."

And while her mornings are all about wellness, her evenings are all about getting cozy, and she tells me her dream night in includes playing a new video game, wearing Gelato Pique sweatpants, and ordering Thai food. But when she's in the kitchen? "I've been making pasta and sausage quite a bit and I make tacos quite a bit. I mean, I kind of just do like protein and veggies and a little bit of a carb," she says.

Walt Disney Studios / Marvel Studios

Cozy nights in wouldn't be the same without a movie, and there's a very good chance you've seen Larson on your screen recently, whether you're rewatching Captain Marvel, 13 Going on 30, or Lessons in Chemistry. But how does the actress consistently choose such beautiful, inspiring pieces to work on? She equates the feeling to having a crush.

"When I feel like [a story] hits something that lives so truthfully in me that I just want to know if it's true to other people," she says. "I just know that we all have more that's the same than different...Film and television, it lives in a way that is beyond me physically. So I'm here talking to you, but anybody can be watching whatever they want. And so I try my best to think through what the pieces are saying so that they go out in the world and I don't get to be at the end of it and explain it or tell people what to feel or what to take from it. It lives a life outside of me. So I try and make sure that it has a complete message in it that I feel like I'll be able to live with for the rest of my life."

Apple TV+

Just like Carol Danvers and Elizabeth Zott empower so many viewers, Brie Larson says she feels empowered by her own Hollywood heroes. "Earlier in my career, like when I was trying to visualize what kind of career I wanted, it was Toni Colette and she's still a hero of mine, but she was truly the one that I was like, 'I want to disappear into characters the way she does.'"

"There's so many incredible [actors]," she continues. "Some of them are people that are more my age and some are older than me. But that's the fun part of my job is that there's so many good people and so many things that are getting made. And so it just feels like we're constantly kind of maneuvering, and when they take on certain roles and represent certain things, it frees up for other people to do other things. And so we kind of all work as a unit."

One movie on the horizon that I'm excited for is Mattel's new American Girl movie. Like many 80s and 90s kids, Brie Larson loved American Girl dolls — and borrowed her stage name from pioneer Kirsten Larson! And just like the rest of us AG kids, she tells me she can't wait for the movie. "I've also seen that there's going to be adult Halloween costumes, which I'm also very excited about," she says. Will she be grabbing a Kirsten one for herself? "I just might!"

Q+A With Brie Larson

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

What's the first thing you did after you won your Oscar?

I probably drank champagne...I drank champagne and I put sneakers on, and then I went to the airport.

What's the best piece of advice you've received?

"When I think I know, I miss so much." We all get stuck in these things — I think an easy one to think about is like, you're in a fight with your sibling or your partner, and you are just so right in how angry you are. And then maybe the next day you wake up and you're like, "Maybe there was another side to that." And so we miss things when we're in a space where we believe that we know. Having an openness to what something can be or that things can be different than what you think makes things easier.

Thorne

What's on your holiday bucket list?

I love the holidays. Because I'm in California, I really am looking forward to this year having a chilly winter. I love a cold winter, cozy winter. I love Christmas markets, so I'll definitely hit things like that. All the little holiday markets pop up around, yeah, it's just like a rare time when everybody is resting at the same time.

What are you watching, reading and listening to right now?

Okay. I am reading a book called Patricia Wants To Cuddle. I am watching Love is Blind season 7 because I am not silly. And listening to Chappell Roan, obviously.

Read Hilarie Burton Just Spilled Some Serious One Tree Hill Teafor more fun celeb insights!

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

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

There are plenty of celebrity couples that are able to balance cool yet relatable, and the coolest of all might just be Justin and Hailey Bieber. The couple is everywhere right now, thanks to Hailey Bieber's Rhode skincare and Justin Bieber's stint as an honorary celebrity co-captain at the 2024 NHL all-star game. Amid reports that the couple has had some serious issues this year, a People source promises "they are very, very happy.” Whew! Here's a full look back on their relationship.

How long have Justin and Hailey Bieber been married?

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Justin and Hailey Bieber have been married for almost six years! They tied the knot in 2018 after they were seen walking into a courthouse, but the larger ceremony that had was filled with their closest loved ones.

They looked so stunning that I'm sure Hailey Bieber's look made it to our list of celebrity wedding dresses we can't get enough of.

How far along is Hailey Bieber?

Image via Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Ever since the couple shared their sweet baby announcement yesterday, fans have been wondering how far along Hailey Beiber is. People confirmed that she's six months and even shared some cryptic clues about her pregnancy despite not fully being ready to share the happy news with the public.

Justin And Hailey Bieber's Full Relationship Timeline

Image via Ethan Miller/Getty Images

November 2009 — Justin Bieber And Hailey Bieber Meet At The Today Show

Justin and Hailey Bieber first met in 2009, when he was 15 and she was 12, when he performed "Baby" at the Today show. According to People, the friendship between Hailey's dad Stephen Baldwin and Justin's mom Pattie Mallette led to the introduction.

Image via Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

February 2, 2011 — Hailey Bieber Attends The Premiere Of Justin Bieber: Never Say Never

Justin Bieber's Never Say Never documentary thrilled Justin Bieber fans (called Beliebers) — but even though Hailey was excited to be at the NYC premiere, she told Vogue in 2019 she didn't consider herself a superfan.

"It was never that crazed, screaming thing," she says. "I didn't think about it in any kind of way except for the fact that he was cute. Everybody had a crush on him. But for the first few years we had a weird age gap."

Image via Angela Weiss/Getty Images for Variety

November 10, 2014 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Reconnect

In late 2014, Justin and Hailey Bieber were joined by Kendall Jenner at a Hillsong New York service. "One day Justin walked into Hillsong and was like, 'Hey, you got older,'" Hailey tells Vogue. "Over time he became my best guy friend. I was running around with him as his homie, but we weren't hanging out [romantically].""

Images via Jason Merritt/Getty Images/Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for EJAF

February 11, 2016 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Are Officially An Item...Kind Of

After sharing a passionate New Year's Eve kiss, Justin Bieber seemingly confirmed his relationship with Hailey right before Valentine's Day. "[She's] someone I really love. We spend a lot of time together," he tells GQ. However, he doesn't call her his girlfriend.

"I don’t want to put anyone in a position where they feel like I’m only theirs, only to be hurt in the end," he continues. "In the past I’ve hurt people and said things that I didn’t mean to make them happy in the moment. So now I’m just more so looking at the future, making sure I’m not damaging them. What if Hailey ends up being the girl I’m gonna marry, right?...I just don’t want to hurt her."Hailey went on to tell E! News that same day they were "not an exclusive couple."

Images via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images/Ethan Miller/Getty Images for New Era

Spring 2016 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Break Up

After the February 2016 GQ story went live, Justing and Hailey Bieber split. But, according to Hailey, it felt much more intense than that. "'Fizzled' would not be the right word — it was more like a very dramatic excommunication," she tells Vogue. "There was a period where if I walked into a room, he would walk out."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

July 7, 2018 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Get Engaged

Justin and Hailey Bieber reconnected at a Miami conference from pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr., and by then, Hailey says, they were past the drama. Things fell into place quickly, and TMZ announced the couple's engagement in July.

"He was the first person I ever had real feelings for," Hailey later says in an episode of Justin Bieber: Seasons. "When things kind of went south for a little bit and we went our separate ways, I just knew that no matter what the outcome was going to be, he was going to be somebody that I loved for the rest of my life."

"Hailey I am soooo in love with everything about you!" Justin says in his official Instagram announcement. "So committed to spending my life getting to know every single part of you loving you patiently and kindLY. I promise to lead our family with honor and integrity letting Jesus through his Holy Spirit guide us in everything we do and every decision we make. My heart is COMPLETELY and FULLY YOURS and I will ALWAYS put you first! You are the love of my life Hailey Baldwin and I wouldn’t want to spend it with anybody else."

Image via Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows

September 2018 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Get Married

After moving in together, the couple was seen walking into a courthouse in the fall (via TMZ)! Since slipping wedding bands on each other's fingers, both Justin and Hailey Bieber have admitted their relationship has taken a ton of work.

"I remember when I first got married, I hit a little bit of an emotional breakdown because I thought marriage was going to fix all my problems and it didn't," Justin says in an interview with Apple Music 1's Ebro Darden (via Billboard). "You want your wife to do something that you're not doing and it's like, it's hard sometimes to look in the mirror and really have to realize, man, maybe you're not the person that you necessarily thought that you were."

"There's a reason they say 'for better or for worse.' Like, that's for real!" Hailey tells Harper's Bazaar. "I might fly somewhere and go do a job, but I can't wait to come back and hang out. And I feel like that's because of the effort that's been put in on both sides. At the end of the day, like, he's my best friend, but it still does take a lot of work to make it work."

Image via Omar Rawlings/Getty Images

February 7, 2019 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Have Their First Photoshoot Together

For Vogue's February 2019 issue, Justin and Hailey Bieber go deep into their relationship (the photos for the issue are beautiful, with the couple in shades of cream and white, with bejeweled details).
“I just feel like I care so much and I want things to be so good and I want people to like me," Justin says. "Hailey’s very logical and structured, which I need. I’ve always wanted security...with the lifestyle I live, everything is so uncertain. I need one thing that’s certain."
"I’m fighting to do this the right way, to build a healthy relationship,” Hailey says. “I’m not going to sit here and lie and say it’s all a magical fantasy. It’s always going to be hard. It’s a choice. You don’t feel it every single day...But there’s something beautiful about it anyway — about wanting to fight for something, commit to building with someone."
"We’re committed to growing together and supporting each other in those changes," she continues. "That’s how I look at it. At the end of the day, too, he’s my best friend. I never get sick of him.”

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

January 27, 2020 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Attend The Premiere Of Justin Bieber: Seasons

For a date night at the beginning of 2020, Justin and Hailey Bieber attended the LA premiere of his YouTube Original Justin Bieber: Seasons. Ahead of the screening at the Regency Bruin Theatre, the couple hit the red carpet. Justin wore pink pants and a white sweater, while Hailey looked chic in a sequined black dress.

Image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images

September 13, 2021 — Justin Bieber And Hailey Bieber Attend The 2021 Met Gala

To celebrate the Met's America: A Lexicon Of Fashion exhibit at the end of 2021, Justin and Hailey Bieber went old school glam for the Met Gala red carpet, with chic outfits and statement jewelry. Unfortunately, their appearance went viral for a different reason when fans of Justin's ex-girlfriend Selena Gomez started changing *her* name during Hailey's time on the carpet.

“It was disrespectful," Hailey says during an episode of Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast. "To me, to my relationship. It just was. Period. The end.”

While some fans think a feud has existed between Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber for years, Hailey says "there's no drama, personally."

"I can say, period, point blank, I was never with him when he was in a relationship with anybody — that's the end of it," she adds.

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

March 10, 2022 — Hailey Bieber Suffers A Mini Stroke

During the spring of 2022, Justin and Hailey Bieber were eating breakfast together when the model "started having stroke-like symptoms and was taken to the hospital," she wrote in an Instagram story (via ABC News). In a YouTube video sharing her story, Hailey explains that she was diagnosed with a patent foramen ovale (or PFO), which is a hole between your heart's left and right upper chambers.

On March 16, during Justin Bieber's concert in Denver, the singer confirmed Hailey had been doing better. "She's okay, she's good. It's been scary, you know, it's been really scary but I know for a fact that God has her in the palm of his hands."

The couple later walked the Grammys red carpet in Las Vegas on April 3.

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

September 13, 2022 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Celebrate Their Four Year Anniversary

Both Justin and Hailey Bieber posted about their fourth wedding anniversary in honor of the special day! "Happy anniversary to my best friend and wifey," Justin posted. "thank u for making me better in every way."

"4 years married to you," Hailey says on Instagram. "the most beautiful human I’ve ever known... love of my life. Thank God for you."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

November 21, 2022 — Justin Bieber Celebrates Hailey Bieber's Birthday

Hailey Bieber turned 26 while the couple was on a trip to Japan, which meant Justin's Instagram post was 14 hours earlier for all their friends and family in North America!

"HAPPY BIRFDAY TO MY FAVORITE HUMAN BEING, XOXO," Justin says in the post. "YOU MAKE LIFE MAGIC 😭 OBSESSED WITH EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU. LOVE YOU BUM BUM."

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images

May 14, 2023 — Hailey Bieber Is Ready For Kids

"I want kids so bad but I get scared," Hailey Bieber tells The Sunday Times. "It's enough that people say things about my husband or my friends. I can't imagine having to confront people saying things about a child."

And in an interview with GQ Hype later that year, Hailey says that while she looks forward to motherhood, she won't be in a rush to tell the world when she does get pregnant: "When there comes a day that that is true, you, you as in the internet, will be the last to know."

Image via Hailey Bieber/Instagram

March 1, 2024 — Hailey Bieber Celebrates Justin Bieber's 30th

Justin Bieber finally joined the thirty, flirty, and thriving club in 2024 and Hailey was over the moon. "30!!!!!!!????!!????!!!!" she says on Instagram. "that was fast. words could never truly describe the beauty of who you are. Happy Birthday to you… love of my life, for life."

Image via Hailey Bieber/Instagram

April 3, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Bieber Are "Very, Very Happy"

After rumors began circulating that Justin and Hailey Bieber were having some serious issues, a source tells People the couple is “doing really well."

“There’s no divorce and no truth to that whatsoever,” the source says. “They are very, very happy.”

Hailey Bieber herself weighed in on the rumors in March, when she posted the above message on her Instagram story. "Just FYI the stories and constant ‘blind items’ I see on TikTok are 100% of the time wrong. Made out of thin air," she says. “So I know it may be fun feeding into these stories but just know they’re always false xx sorry to spoil it."

April 15, 2024 — Justin Bieber Celebrates His "Soulmate"

Following the first weekend of Coachella, Justin Bieber shared a video (originally posted to a fan account) that shows him standing with Hailey during a show. The fan account captioned the video, "JUSTIN AND HAILEY ARE SOULMATES IDC WHAT ANYONE SAYS," and TBH I totally agree. The video shows Justin and Hailey Bieber swaying to a song, and Justin kissing her on the forehead.

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

May 2024 — Justin And Hailey Announce They're Expecting Their First Baby

After mentioning she was ready for kids a year ago, Hailey Bieber's pregnant! So far, Hailey Bieber's pregnancy announcement carousel on Instagram has almost 10 million likes and tons of praise! Revolve even left this sweet comment: "couldn’t be happier for you guys🥹🤍."

But, the best praise came from Justin and Hailey Bieber's families. Justin's mom, Patti Mallette, took to Instagram to share her thoughts in a reel on Instagram that captured her excitement about becoming a grandma. She squealed, "Oh my gosh, I'm gonna be a grandmom! Oh my goodness!"

She also left a happy message on Stephen Baldwin's Instagramthat made some fans question if she was revealing if Justin and Hailey Bieber are having twins. She initially wrote, "Congratulations Grandpa! WE ARE GONNA HAVE THE CUTEST GRAND-BABIES EVER!" but circled back to let people know, "No not twins lol I wish. I just mean in general. Hopefully they will have more than one eventually. They will make beautiful babies whenever they have them. One is enough for now 😂."

Image via Justin Bieber/Instagram

The cute moments for the Biebers continue! Justin Bieber recently shared updated pics of the couple on Instagram where Hailey's baby bump is out for the world to see. She's still maintaining her signature business casual look that we're huge fans of while Justin's look complemented hers.

August 23, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Are Hollywood's Newest Parents

Look out Hollywood, there's a new Bieber in town! Justin and Hailey welcomed the arrival of their bundle of joy on August 23 and shared their enthusiasm with the world. Justin shared the cutest photo of Hailey holding their son's foot on Instagram and captioned it, "WELCOME HOME JACK BLUES BIEBER 🐻." Everyone from stylist Georgia Medley to the company Baby Bjorn congratulated the new dad on entering the ranks of parenthood.

Justin's mom even shared how excited she is that her grandson is now born! She tweeted CONGRATULATIONS @justinbieber & Hailey. I LOVE YOU FOREVER BABY JACK" and Hailey's dad, Stephen Baldwin shared his own congratulatory tweet after resharing it.

I think we can all agree that Justin and Hailey are one of the world's hottest parents aside from Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

October 22, 2024 — Justin And Hailey Are Closer Than Ever Amid Diddy's Scandal

In spite of the fact Justin and Hailey welcomed their infant son a couple of months ago, the rumor mill is dredging up the singer's past affiliation with fallen mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs. Page Six reshared screenshots from an old video of that two where Diddy's hand could be seen on Justin's chest. One user on X felt Diddy was "checking Justin Bieber to see if he is wearing a wire," however it's hard to tell since we can't really hear their conversation.

Since the video resurfaced, there have been several reports that Justin isn't doing so well because he could be reliving alleged trauma from the time he was close to Diddy. One report by The News even said the singer "looked pensive" in photos snapped of he and Hailey while they headed to Doja Cat's bday bash.

However, it seems Justin and Hailey are doing their best to continue leading normal lives amid Diddy's scandal. The Rhode founder shared a sweet photo of a little plant Justin surprised her with on Instagram stories, according to PEOPLE, and wrote, "@justinbiber bought me a plant for no reason. it’s the little things."

Justin also shared a carousel of pictures on Instagram a couple of days ago that showed him working on music. The last photo features a tender moment that captures he and Hailey leaning in for a kiss, signaling they're a united front in their marriage.

October 31, 2024 — Hailey Bieber Shares Another Picture Of Baby Jack

Hailey Bieber couldn't resist showing off another cute image of Baby Jack's feet on Instagram stories earlier today. It seems like he was seated in a baby carrier while wearing the cutest fuchsia onesie that had an 'I Voted' sticker on his foot. Hailey wrote, "Happy Halloween! Get out there and vote 👻," over the photo, letting us know she did her part on the spookiest day of the year!

What's your favorite moment from Justin and Hailey Bieber's relationship? Follow us on Facebook for more news on your fave celeb couples!

This post has been updated.

If you've been struggling to get enough sleep, new TikTok viral wellness trend — 'sleepmaxxing' — wants to help. We'd give anything to stop dealing with insomnia, middle-of-the-night wakeup calls, and overall sleep anxiety. But does this trend work? And more importantly, are all these social media tips safe for you to try?

Dr. Ankur Bindal, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM can tell you better than we can given his board certification in psychiatry, from American Board of Psychiatry & neurology. In addition to being the founder of the KAB Medical Group Inc. in San Diego, he's also a board certified sleep medicine practitioner who's seen firsthand how a lack of rest can affect our overall wellbeing.

TL;DR

  • Sleepmaxxing is a TikTok trend that's focused on setting yourself up for the best night of sleep possible.
  • While sleep masks and other tangible efforts to get comfortable in bed are great, you mainly want to make sure you're making healthy choices before bed like avoiding your phone.
  • Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
  • Eliminate too much light in your bedroom, avoid screen time, and establish consistent sleeping and waking times.

What is sleepmaxxing?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

If you're confused about sleepmaxxing, you're not alone — it's really not a straightforward term. It reminds us of what Will Ferrell said in Blades of Glory: "No one knows what it means but it's provocative...gets the people going." However, it actually has a meaning, and Dr. Bindal succinctly breaks it down. "Sleepmaxxing is the art and science of optimizing one's sleep and achieving the best possible quality & quantity of sleep by addressing every factor that can disrupt sleep," he says. This can look like using ear plugs, sleep masks, establishing specific sleep rituals, or anything else that is soothing and helpful.

Mainly, if you actually want to maximize your sleep, then you need to focus on what you do before you go to bed. Unbeknownst to us at times, our bedtime habits can affect the kind of rest we get (or not) at night. Dr. Bindal says, "Optimal Sleep hygiene methodologies including limiting light and sound exposure to using the latest sleep gadgets so sleepmaxxing aims to enhance sleep quality to the fullest." Unfortunately this means our habit of binge watching shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok at night aren't helping us.

I mean, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 35% of those surveyed have their sleep interrupted by lights inside of their homes. That's just lights, sans repetitious social media sounds and compelling television plots. When you add those on top of it all...let's just say we really are not doing ourselves any favors.

How does getting the proper amount of rest aid in our overall wellbeing?

Ahmed ツ

Now that you have a better idea of what sleepmaxxing is, we have to talk about why it matters. Dr. Bindal says getting the "proper amount of sleep" helps support" the following "various bodily functions" including, but not limited to:

  • Brain health — Enhanced cognition in domains of learning, concentration and consolidating memory by promoting phenomenon of hippocampal plasticity
  • Immune system function — A production of essential immune cells, better equipped to fighting off infections
  • Hormone regulation — A regulation of mood and reduced stress and physical repair that promotes muscle recovery, tissue repair, and overall physical development

He further explains that hormone regulation eventually leads to "improved mood, concentration, energy levels, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes."

Basically, the health benefits of slowing down and going to sleep outweigh what society often pushes — staying up later, longer and hustling at all hours of the day and night.

On average, how many hours of sleep are recommended?

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How much rest are you truly getting at night? If you ask America's Health Rankings, 35% of adults are getting less than seven hours of sleep. Dr. Bindal says that while adults should sleep between seven and nine hours every night, and there are health risks for those who don't. "Research corroborates that adults who sleep less than seven hours a night may have more health issues than those who do," he explains. Johns Hopkins Medicinefound that sleep deprivation can lead to a "36% increased risk for colorectal cancer," propensity for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and an overall lower immune system.

Saying "I'll sleep when I'm dead," may sound like a joke, but there's nothing funny about not letting your body get the rest it needs to function.

Should people with sleep difficulties try sleepmaxxing?

Marcus Aurelius

There are several reasons why your sleep could be negatively impacted right now. You may be dealing with insomnia due to stress, depression, or being a new parent. According to the American Psychological Association, 43% of people believe being stressed contributes to their lack of sleep. Furthermore, these same people have noticed their mood has shifted. The same reports shows that 45% of people who are getting less than the recommended hours of sleep have shared they feel on edge more than others while 52% have noticed they've been taking their frustrations out on those in their household.

Dr. Bindal agrees that sleepmaxxing can greatly benefit you if you're struggling because it can "enhance sleep quality to the fullest and emphasizes the importance of optimal sleep health."

How does sleepmaxxing benefit us?

Pavel Danilyuk

Clearly, you need a certain amount of sleep to function properly and achieve all those goals you've so intentionally set recently (hello, October Theory!). That's where sleepmaxxing can come in. Dr. Bindal says, "Improved sleep quality can lead to enhanced mental clarity and emotional stability, making it easier to navigate daily challenges."

If you're planning to change a few habits, you're going to need all the strength and focus you can access because change isn't always easy — even if you welcome it! So when you're implementing these new nighttime routines, be sure to stick to them. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb, avoid the itch to scroll socials, and make sure you're able to properly relax. It can make all the difference in the world!

How can we incorporate sleepmaxxing in our bedtime routines?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

If you don't know how to make sleepmaxxing work for you, Dr. Bindal has great suggestions! "Key techniques include optimizing your sleep environment, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and managing stress and anxiety," he suggests.

One of the key ways you can make sure your room will promote a good night's sleep is by "adjusting the temperature" or "practicing a relaxation exercises before bed," he says. While meditation and mindfulness may be relaxation exercises that take practice over time, choosing the correct temperature is an easy way to set yourself up for success. Everyone's different, but he truly believes your room should be between 65 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit, too.

As Dr. Bindal mentioned before, eliminating sources of light can also aid in the rest you get. Personally, I can't sleep with the TV or lights on anymore because I just know it interrupts my sleep. My room is usually pitch black when it's time to go to sleep — to the point my three-year-old knows what it means when I turn everything off.

Besides these things, Dr. Bindal encourages you to maintain "consistent sleep and wake times" along with a "balanced diet and regular physical activity." Whether that means you start making your own Cava bowls inspired by the blue zone diet or doing workouts at home, they can aid in helping your body repair itself which then promotes the sleep you need.

Can we become too hyper-focused on our quality of sleep?

Kevin Malik

As with anything, too much of something can have adverse affects which rules out any benefits. Though sleepmaxxing can be a good thing for you, becoming fixated on it is likely going to make you even more stressed. "One of the primary concerns with sleepmaxxing is the development of orthosomnia, a condition caused by an obsession with tracking sleep metrics, with devices or apps, which increases anxiety and can further disrupt sleep, called paradoxical insomnia," Dr. Bindal warns.

If you become too obsessed with tracking every little thing, he says all this will do is "disrupt sleep cycles and limit the efficacy of insomnia treatments." But, he has an idea of what you can do to lessen the chance that'll happen. "Instead of over-analyzing how much sleep you’re getting, it’s important to understand that insomnia is a common and treatable condition, by incorporating healthy sleep hygiene routines organically and focusing on addressing the root causes of insomnia symptoms," he shares.

How can we optimize our sleep without getting sucked into wellness trends?

Niels from Slaapwijsheid.nl

Whether you want to call it sleepmaxxing or not, all you have to do is normalize the tips Dr. Bindal mentioned above. "Some of the ways can include established a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, managing light exposure, and limiting screen time before you want to go to sleep," he reiterates. Social media isn't going anywhere so don't let your FOMO convince you that potential scandals or tutorials are more important than getting seven to nine hours of sleep.

Also, don't forget to "maintain a comfortable sleep environment" while being aware of your "caffeine and alcohol intake throughout the day," Dr. Bindal points out. Something tells us that we're going to have to be intentional about breaking up with our daily coffee runs and desires to unwind with a nice glass of wine. But if it means we'll sleep better, we'll add that to our list of habits to change!

Need an extra dose of positivity in your life? We have even more lifestyle tips to share to help you end the year on a healthy and wholesome note!

When the new cookbook Crumbs: Cookies & Sweets from Around the World by food writer, recipe developer, and self-confessed baking obsessive Ben Mims arrived in my mailbox, I was instantly smitten. Not only because I LOVE fresh-baked cookies in all varieties, but because this book is stunning, from the elegant cover to the beautiful photography by Simon Bajada inside. My mom was visiting and she was obsessed too, but I couldn't bring myself to part with it! It's also a great holiday gift for the baker in your life — or a great gift to give yourself. 😉 Regardless, here's Ben's best baking tips — plus three international cookie recipes you can bake right now!

Swirled Pig's Ears Cookies (Vietnam)

Simon Bajada

Bake your way around the world with Crumbs's 300 irresistible cookie recipes from nearly 100 countries, from classic chocolate chip cookies to date-filled maamoul, and almond macaroons to cardamom biscuits, Italian waffle cookies, and Okinawan brown sugar shortbread.

Simon Bajada

"Cookies are condensed pieces of excess," says Ben. "They allow everyone to feel extravagant and rich for a second. I think that’s a universal appeal for everyone. They bring joy while eating them, no matter how you feel the rest of the time. And sharing in that joy is what cookies do best; they allow you to physically give out happiness in a few bites."

He's sharing an excerpt of three cookie recipes below!

Simon Bajada

Chocolate-Glazed Polish Gingerbread (Poland)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 50 minutes, plus cooling and setting time

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Makes: 30 cookies

INGREDIENTS

For the cookies:

  • 6 tablespoons (125 g) honey ¼ cup (50 g) white US granulated (UK caster) sugar
  • 2½ tablespoons (35 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2¼ cups (315 g) all-purpose (plain) flour, plus more for dusting
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt

For the chocolate glaze:

  • 1½ cups (200 g) powdered (icing) sugar
  • 1/3 cup (30 g) natural cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons whole milk, plus more if needed

DIRECTIONS

  1. Make the cookies: Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Pour the honey into a small frying pan and place over medium-high heat until the honey starts to bubble around the edges and is loose. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the white US granulated (UK caster) sugar, butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and cardamom until the sugar dissolves. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the sour cream until smooth, then add the flour and sprinkle over the baking soda (bicarb) and salt. Fold the mixture with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together and there are no dry pockets of flour remaining.
  4. Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the dough to ½ inch (13 mm) thick. Using a 2½- to 3-inch (6.5 to 7.5 cm) round or heart-shaped cutter, cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Reroll the scraps to cut out more cookies.
  5. Bake until the cookies are risen, golden brown at the edges, and give just slightly when pressed on top, 15-20 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through. The cookies will firm up considerably upon cooling so err on the side of underbaking them.
  6. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks. Let the cookies cool on the pans for 1 minute, then transfer them to the racks to cool completely.
  7. Make the chocolate glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered (icing) sugar and cocoa. Add the vanilla and 2 tablespoons of the milk and stir until a thick paste forms. Add another 1 tablespoons milk and stir until the glaze is pourable and smooth but not too runny. Add more milk if needed to reach the consistency you want.
  8. Balance a cookie on the tines of a fork and position it over the bowl of glaze. Use a spoon in your other hand to spoon glaze over the cookie, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. Once the glaze stops dripping, return the cookies to a rack or a baking sheet. Repeat glazing the remaining cookies. Let the glaze dry until set before serving.

Simon Bajada

Rainbow Sprinkles-Covered Cookies (Mexico)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus 1 hour chilling time

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Makes: About 36 cookies

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups (280 g) all-purpose (plain) flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¾ cup (150 g) white US granulated (UK caster) sugar
  • ½ cup (115 g) cold-rendered leaf lard or vegetable shortening, softened
  • 4 tablespoons (2 oz/55 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, preferably Mexican
  • 2 eggs, 1 whole and 1 separated
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ½ cup (120 g) rainbow-colored nonpareils (hundreds & thousands) or small dragées

DIRECTIONS

  • Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, with a hand mixer, combine the sugar, lard, butter, and vanilla and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Add the whole egg, beat until smooth, then add the egg yolk to the bowl, beating until smooth. Add the flour mixture to the bowl and stir until a dough forms and there are no dry patches of flour remaining. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (cling film) and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm.
  • Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Using a 2½-inch (6.5 cm) round cutter, cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Reroll the dough and cut out more cookies. Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm the dough rounds.
  • Meanwhile, make an egg wash by whisking the remaining egg white with the water until smooth. Place the nonpareils in a shallow dish or large plate.
  • Using a pastry brush, brush some of the egg wash over the top of a dough round and place the round, brushed-side down, in the nonpareils to completely encrust that side. Invert the cookie and return it to its spot on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough rounds.
  • Bake until light golden brown at the edges and just set in the center, 12-15 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through.
  • Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks. Let the cookies cool on the pans for 1 minute, then transfer them to the racks to cool completely.

Simon Bajada

Flower Shaped Butter Cookies (Italy)

Adapted from Crumbsby Ben Mims

Preparation time: 45 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Makes: About 24 cookies

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 cup (140 g) all-purpose (plain) flour
  • ¾ cup (105 g) potato starch or cornstarch (cornflour)
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 hard-boiled egg yolks
  • 1 stick (4 oz/115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (65 g) powdered (icing) sugar, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or almond extract
  • Finely grated zest of 1 lemon

DIRECTIONS

  1. Position racks in the top and bottom thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, potato starch, and salt. Place a fine sieve over a large bowl and use a silicone spatula to press the hard-boiled egg yolks through the sieve, scraping the back of the sieve to ensure you get all the egg yolk. Add the butter and sugar, and beat on medium speed with a hand mixer until pale and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Add the dry ingredients and stir until the dough forms and there are no dry patches of flour remaining. Gather the dough into a ball.
  3. Working on a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin to ⅜ inch (1 cm) thick. Using a 2½-inch (6.5 cm) flower-shaped cutter, cut out shapes of dough. Reroll the scraps to cut out more cookies. Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheets, spaced 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Using the end of a narrow-handled wooden spoon or a ½-inch (13 mm) round piping tip (nozzle), punch out the center of each dough flower. Reroll the centers to make more cookies or discard them.
  4. Bake until golden brown at the edges and dry to the touch on top, 10-15 minutes, switching racks and rotating the baking sheets front to back halfway through.
  5. Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks and let the cookies rest on the pans for 1 minute. While they are still hot, dust the cookies with sugar and then transfer directly to the racks to cool completely.

VARIATION

Castagnese

Substitute the same weight of chestnut flour for the potato starch.

Chocolate Chip Cookies (United States)

Simon Bajada

"Ben's best baking tip? "Be patient. So much of the success of your baking comes down to simply giving things the time they need to set up or cool down. Don’t rush things. Always set a timer. Oh, and use a scale! Using the proper weight of ingredients (versus using volume measurements) will be the single greatest determining factor in the outcome of your cookies and all baked goods."

There's so much inside of Crumbs, including the origin story of each cookie and its region. Try them for breakfast, with afternoon tea, on holidays, or as a late-night snack, they are that good!

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When it's cold outside and all you want to do is curl up in front of the fire pit, nothing hits the spot like comfort food. Sometimes though, cozy meals can be quite heavy. Luckily, comfort food doesn't *have* to weigh you down.

If you're in the mood to make a recipe that will make you feel more at ease, these are the meals for you. These 38 comfort food recipes have all the flavors you crave, but include healthier ingredients so you can have the best of both worlds!

Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Lighter Chicken, Bacon, and Broccoli Alfredo

This Alfredo has all of the flavors you love, but relies on some healthier substitutes. Low-fat milk and chicken broth take the place of heavy cream, pork bacon is swapped for turkey, and nutrient-rich broccoli is thrown in the mix for an added healthy boost.

Brit + Co

Chili Mac n' Cheese

When two of the best comfort foods come together, they form this tasty Chili Mac n' Cheese. It's a breeze to whip up on a weekday – add some more veggies in the mix if you want to make it healthier.

Just a Taste

Baked Turkey Meatballs with Quinoa

Meatballs and pasta are delicious, but are best saved for special occasions. These baked turkey meatballs with quinoa, full of lean protein and whole grains, are a lighter version that you can enjoy on a more regular basis.

Cozy Cravings

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac n' Cheese

A classic comfort food recipe (like broccoli cheddar soup) offers yet another layer of cheesy goodness when you swap the soupy part for a creamy mac and cheese. Try sneaking some shredded carrots into the dish for some extra veggies.

Cilantro Parsley

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This instant pot recipe makes for a super easy, flavorful, and delicious fall dish. Add all your favorite veggies for some extra nutrients, and to make it taste like a taco in a bowl!

Abbey’s Kitchen

Gluten-Free Tuna Noodle Casserole

Crispy root veggie chips save the day in this gluten-free tuna noodle casserole. They add just the right amount of crunch on top, without having to rely on bread crumbs.

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Every ingredient gets so nice and tender in this instant pot beef stew. With plenty of veggies and a good balance between broth, this recipe is a must-make for warming up this fall and winter.

Brit + Co

Pastina

Pastina is the ultimate comfort food recipe because it's chockfull of broth, butter, and cheese. It'll soothe your head cold, or your upset stomach. If you aren't sick, pastina is still a great dish to maximize coziness!

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

This classic childhood chicken noodle soup is upgraded when you make it in your slow cooker. This recipe in particular is great for busy days, because you can have it cook during the day then enjoy the rich flavors after you get off work.

The Petite Cook

Sweet Potato Chicken Cottage Pie

Chicken takes the place of red meat, and sweet potato takes the place of white, for a hearty, healthy meal.

Brit + Co

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Whole 30-approved loaded baked potato soup recipe is delicious and is a healthy comfort food that you won't be able to turn down. Add all your favorite baked potato garnishes right on top and you're in store for a delicious meal that goes with rainy days *and* chilly evenings.

Brit + Co

Mushroom Risotto

This easy mushroom risotto recipe will take your kitchen by storm. Once you've made it, you'll already be planning your next risotto dinner.

Brit + Co

Meatloaf

Meatloaf immediately takes us back to our mom's kitchen, eating hot meatloaf at dinner and a cold meatloaf sandwich for lunch the next day. It's already hiding some carrots, but feel free to mix in any other veggies you'd like to.

Vikalinka/Brit + Co

Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce

Comfort foods like this chicken with garlic mushroom sauce recipe are a definite way to create cozyvibes at mealtime.

Cook's Hideout

Cauliflower Risotto

Risotto is delicious, but it can be a pain to make. This cauliflower version isn’t just healthier — it’s easier to cook, too.

Whole Food Bellies

Whipped Feta and Cauliflower Mash

Skip the mashed potatoes in favor of mashed cauliflower. It’s a creamy, rich-tasting side dish that’s lower in carbs, flavored with feta and herbs so you’re left feeling satisfied.

Cook Nourish Bliss

Sweet Potato and Kale Brown Rice Casserole

Many of us grew up on cheesy rice casseroles, and this recipe offers up a healthier take. It’s made with nutritional powerhouses like sweet potato, kale, and brown rice.

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

The slow cooker beef strroganoff makes this comfort food recipe worlds easier. Not to mention, this dish is *so* full of flavor. Add even more vegetables to get in that healthy kick you're seeking.

Half Baked Harvest

Crockpot Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Craving a spicy kick to your chicken tortilla soup? Add jalapenos, cumin and red enchilada sauce for a flavor you won't forget.

Kirbie's Cravings

Cauliflower Gnocchi

Cauliflower gnocchi isn’t just a lighter version of the classic comfort food recipe – it’s a praise-worthy dish on its own, especially when it's topped with colorful kale pesto.

Vodka and Biscuits

Whole30 Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie gets a lil' bit of a lighter makeover in this comfort food recipe. It’s a dairy-free take on the classic that opts for grass-fed meat instead of the usual.

Well Plated

Spaghetti Squash Boats with Chicken

Spaghetti squash replaces pasta while chicken and bacon add some big flavors to the mealtime mix for a cozy dish that’s healthy, but truly satisfying.

Wry Toast

Skillet Chicken Parmesan

Lighten things up by baking the chicken instead of frying it, and serving it on a bed of greens instead of pasta for a healthy comfort meal.

Emilie Eats

Sweet Potato Spaghetti with Lentil Sauce

Spiralized noodles are all the rage when it comes to healthy food, and they come in real handy in this dish. Topped with a chunky lentil-based Bolognese, this a cozy meal full of essential nutrients.

Killing Thyme

Vegetarian Italian Wedding Soup

A cozy bowl of soup is the perfect meal on chilly days. This Italian wedding soup is comforting, but not heavy — it uses vegetarian meatballs instead of red meat.

Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Healthy Sloppy Joes

These sloppy Joes don’t come from a can – they’re made from scratch, without any added sugars.

Baker by Nature

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Sometimes you just need a hands-off meal, but don’t want to rely on getting takeout. This slow cooker turkey chili is just the thing — loaded with veggies, beans, and lean ground turkey to keep you full and satisfied.

The Sassy Life

High Protein Mac n' Cheese

Sometimes our favorite comfort foods just need a little nutritional boost. This mac n' cheese uses protein-enriched pasta, then makes a cheesy sauce from light shredded cheese and fat-free cottage cheese, so you get a ton of protein and flavor, with less fat and calories.

Ambitious Kitchen

Lightened Up Chicken Pot Pie

It’s easier than you might think to remake this classic comfort food recipe. It’s made with a whole wheat crust and non-dairy milk, plus the same veggies and lean protein that make the original so tasty.

Brit + Co

Ginger Butternut Squash Soup

Aside from the fact that this ginger butternut squash soup is colorful and only has 110 calories, it also only requires five ingredients and 30 minutes. Talk about a win-win.

Reclaiming Yesterday

Fried Quinoa with Chicken

Lighten up the go-to takeout meal with quinoa and extra veggies. If you want some extra flavor with less salt, add a drizzle of low-sodium soy sauce on top.

Nyssa's Kitchen

Gluten-Free Smothered Pork Chops

Served with herb whipped parsnips and kale, you’ll rave over these smothered pork chops. In addition to healthy vegetable sides, they’re made with a dairy-free caramelized onion sauce, which makes it a healthier take on the comfort food classic.

Averie Cooks

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

You may not associate salmon as a comfort meal but after you try this recipe, you'll rely on it time and time again.

Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

Pumpkin French Toast

Comfort food doesn't have to begin and end with dinner. You can easily recreate this pumpkin French toast recipe so you can have a comforting option for breakfast.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Skillet Peach Cobbler

We're willing to argue that this skillet peach cobbler recipe is one of the delicious comfort foods you can make. Sure, it's more of a dessert than an actual meal but you can keep the cozy vibes going with a warm, peach slice of this recipe.

Vanilla and Bean

Roasted Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup

Any time you have roasted flavors in a soup, you're bound to have a delicious and savory meal.

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Apple Cider Chicken Thighs with Root Vegetables

Sheet pan meals deserve all the awards they can receive because they're easy to make and contain juicy flavor that

Woman Scribbles

Beef Teriyaki with Mushrooms and Broccoli

This yummy protein-filled bowl is a top notch comfort food. You'll fall in love with the savory glaze that covers the beef and may want to use it for future meals!

Follow us on Pinterest for more healthy comfort food recipes!

This post has been updated.