How to De-stress Your Morning in Under 20 Minutes

If you're feeling stressed out, you're not alone! Whether it's going after a promotion at work or trying to keep track of every family member's birthday, the little things in life that we worry about can really add up and take a toll on our well-being. But it turns out that the solution might be found right in your own outdoor space! We've partnered with IKEA® to share with you an easily attainable 15-minute outdoor morning routine. We'll dive into some simple stretches, teach you how to create a soothing plant oasis, and show you why it's important to leave your phone inside so you can start your day with much-needed R&R — all in under 20 minutes.

STEP 1: TAKE YOUR BREAKFAST OUTSIDE

Start your morning feeling extra zen by making time for yourself to enjoy some fresh air. Zenning out doesn't need to be time-consuming leave your phone inside and opt to relax digital free. Five minutes without staring at your phone really adds up and will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

It doesn't take much to create the ultimate outdoor breakfast nook to kick back in. We built ours with the SOLLERÖN Coffee table and matching SOLLERÖN Corner section with comfy seat cushions added. Add a couple decorative cushions and throw blankets and you've got yourself a cozy little corner to start our day in.

A well-balanced breakfast includes cereal, fruit, OJ, and *at least* five cups of coffee, right? The only thing better than drinking coffee is drinking coffee out of a cute mug, like this FRAMKALLA Mug.

Serving yourself orange juice in this IKEA 365+ Carafe is the perfect way to up your vitamin C intake, because nobody has time to get sick. Now that you're fed and caffeinated, spend some time with your green friends.

FEATURED PRODUCTS

IKEA 365+ CARAFE
$5
SOLLERÖN COFFEE TABLE
$95


STEP 2: SPEND TIME IN A PLANT OASIS

Creating a plant oasis in your backyard and tending to your greenery after breakfast will vastly enrich your life.

Grab your SOCKER Watering canand take care of your little bb's. Having plants can be quite the responsibility, but it's a rewarding one! This IKEA plant stand is the ideal way to display your plants and *literally* elevate your oasis.


TBH, when it comes to plants, our philosophy is the more, the better. Succulents are terrific starter plants, as they tend to be very hardy and easy to keep alive for all green-thumbs in training. We potted ours in the BITTERGURKA Plant pot, which is great because it can hold multiple plants. Now that you've taken care of your plants, it's time to take care of yourself.

STEP 3: ADOPT AN EASY MORNING STRETCH ROUTINE

Stretching is an excellent way to decrease stress, improve your mood, and start your day off right. So grab your yoga mat, which you can conveniently store outside in the ÄPPLARÖ Bench with wall panel, and let's get started.

Make this a simple morning routine. Start today and you'll be on your way to your best life.

It doesn't take much time to create the ultimate backyard morning routine, and you deserve it!

How do you like to start your day off? We'd love to hear about your morning routines! Share with us on Instagram @BritandCo.

Photography: Brittany Griffin

Model: Natasha Thomas

Styling + Production: Cassidy Miller


This article has been updated from a previous post.

As we head into 2025, wellness is not just about personal health, but also the spaces we live in. The latest trends in wellness focus on a holistic approach that balances the body, mind, and your environment. From smart technologies to ancient healing practices, these 15 wellness trends are set to transform how we care for ourselves and our homes. Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health, your physical well-being, or simply create a more nurturing space, these trends will help you kick off the new year with a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Bio-Hacking

Kaboompics.com

Biohacking trends like tracking sleep, nutrition, and exercise; using nootropics or cognitive enhancers; and practicing intermittent fasting are helping people optimize their health and wellness, and potentially their life span. According to a recent McKinsey report, more than 60 percent of people have said it’s extremely or very important to purchase longevity products, and 70 percent are planning to buy more products in the future. Wearables in the fitness industry are continuing to drive this trend, and allowing more people to turn their healthcare into a lifestyle, rather than waiting for an annual checkup. People are also using at-home diagnostic tools and e-health services to manage their health at home.

Gentle Workouts

Scarlett Alexandra DeGregorio

High-impact exercises can often leave our bodies feeling strained. By incorporating gentle exercise into your fitness routine, you allow your body to move in a way that reduces stress and tension. Workouts like yoga, pilates, or walking, help you become more in tune with your breathing and heart rate, which helps you feel calm. It's a great way to reach your 2025 fitness goals while also improving your mental health.

Digital Detoxing

Darina Belonogova

The constant need to check emails, texts, and social media has led to burnout and stress. The American Psychological Associations' Stress in America survey found that a fifth of U.S. adults cited technology use as a significant source of stress in their life. Constantly being plugged in can affect both our mental and physical health. Taking a conscious break from screens to reconnect with ourselves and others will become a necessity come 2025. Whether it’s an hour a day or a weekend getaway, we allow our minds to rest and reduce the overwhelming feeling caused by information overload.

Wellness Gardens

Billie Lentz

Wellness gardens are the perfect escape from the bustle of daily life, and can promote health and wellness with thoughtfully curated elements like aromatic plants, water features, and comfortable seating. Greenery, soothing sounds, and sitting outdoors in nature can encourage you to be more mindful and less stressed while homegrown food, herbs, and edible flowers nourish you for the season.

Light Therapy

Jemilla Mills-Smith

An estimated 10 million Americans are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), according to Psychology Today. Designing your home for better natural light, especially in winter, can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and energy levels. Use sheer curtains in active spaces like the kitchen, living room, and home office, and open up blinds to allow as much natural light in, stimulating vitamin D production to keep bone health and immune function in check. Mentally, natural light has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, and alleviate symptoms of depression by increasing serotonin levels. It can also improve focus, productivity, and creativity while you work. For long winter nights, invest in a light therapy lamp too.

At-Home Saunas

Wayfair

At-home saunas are the latest self care status symbol and will continue to trend into 2025 as they become more affordable (this portable sauna from Target is only $150!). Sauna blankets are also trending and help offer so many health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification through sweating, and relaxation of muscles and joints. A regular sauna routine can help reduce stress, promote better sleep, and boost heart health. The heat is also good for skin and your body's recover post-workout. Community saunas and bathhouses are also gaining in popularity, especially among younger generations who prefer the social aspect.

Wellness Journaling

Hannah Newberry

Wellness journaling helps you track your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By documenting your daily habits, moods, and goals, you can start to see patterns, manage stress, and focus mindfulness and on your personal growth. Check out this Papier journal for tracking your 2025 wellness goals.

Smart Indoor Air Monitors

Mikhail Nilov

Improving indoor air quality is so important for a healthy home. According to the EPA, Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of pollutants can be 2 to 5 times higher than they are outdoors. Open windows when possible or use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce allergens, dust, and pollutants. Houseplants like snake plants and spider plants can also help purify the air naturally. Regularly clean and vacuum to keep dust mites and mold at bay, and avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Invest in a smart air quality monitor to give yourself peace of mind.

Water Filtration Systems

Ron Lach

Home water filtration is becoming a vital wellness trend, as people seek cleaner, safer drinking water. Advanced filtration systems remove contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria, and eco-conscious designs, such as reverse osmosis and carbon filters, improve water quality while reducing our reliance on bottled water. Shower filtration systems are a great way to keep chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities out of your tap water, which can cause dryness, irritation, and dullness. Have dry skin or scalp? Shower filters help maintain skin’s natural moisture barrier and can be gentler on sensitive skin.

Sleep Divorcing

Photo by Kampus Production

A sleep divorce, when you sleep in separate beds or rooms to get a better night's sleep, can save your marriage. While it may sound extreme, many couples find that it improves both their sleep and relationship. Snoring, differing sleep schedules, or constant tossing and turning can keep you and your partner up all night, leading to fatigue and irritability (never great for communication). Sleep divorce is about prioritizing your health and theirs, and many couples report feeling more refreshed, connected, and happier in their relationships as a result. Not ready for a sleep divorce? Try this Scandinavian sleep method.

Dry Brushing

Vlada Karpovich

I always think of Gwyneth Paltrow when I think of dry brushing. She showed us during her typical Goop-inspired shower routine that she never takes a shower without one. It simply involves brushing your skin with a natural-bristle brush to exfoliate dead cells and stimulate circulation. It can help improve skin texture, unclog pores, and promote lymphatic drainage, which supports detoxification. Regular dry brushing may reduce the appearance of cellulite, increase energy, and leave the skin feeling smoother and more refreshed. For best results, brush before your shower for max benefits.

Functional Foods

Cora Pursley

Functional foods are nutrient-rich foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition — so foods filled with vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, or probiotics to support digestion, boost immunity, or reduce inflammation. Examples include fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi, which promote gut health, or fatty fish like salmon, rich in omega-3s, which support heart health. Next time you food shop, look out for these foods and incorporate them into daily meals to enhance your overall wellness and help prevent chronic health conditions.

Sexual Health

Ketut Subiyanto

Sexual wellness is becoming less taboo for 2025. As conversations around sexual health become more normalized, products and services like sex education, therapy, and health-enhancing products will become more accessible. Trends include the rise of personalized sexual health solutions, such as tailored supplements and tech-enabled devices for a better sex life. Platforms offering education, therapy, and community support will also grow, empowering us to explore our sexual wellness in a holistic, shame-free way.

Wild Swimming

Büşranur Aydın

Water wellness, a growing trend in 2025, emphasizes the health benefits of hydration and water-based therapies, like hydrotherapy (hot baths, cold plunges, steam rooms) to relieve pain, improve circulation, and reduce stress. Float therapy (a float tank filled with Epsom salt water), mineral baths using magnesium and sulfur to detoxify the body, and swimming in hot springs for relaxation, muscle tension relief, and improving circulation are giving rise to the therapeutic benefits of our natural waters.

Modern Pilgrimaging

Spencer Wirkkala

Modern pilgrimages, where you or you with a group travel to a sacred or meaningful site, nature retreat, or cultural landmark, with an emphasis on mindfulness, inner growth, and personal transformation, are forecasted to grow in 2025 as more people seek community and the great outdoors. Many people seek these experiences as a way to disconnect from daily routines, practice meditation, or explore new spiritual perspectives.

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Since cooking a Thanksgiving dinner takes a hot minute, it's not a bad idea to have some appetizerson-hand to serve your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving guests. Of course, you don’t want to have to spend a ton of time making snacks when you’re also preparing a feast – but that’s where these last-minute bites come in! These Thanksgiving appetizers will keep your guests satisfied until dinner, and they’re so easy to make, you won’t have to deal with any extra kitchen drama.

Without further ado, let's dive into these quick and easy Thanksgiving appetizers!

Fresh Eggs Daily

Baked Eggs in Butternut Squash Rings

Yummy Thanksgiving Appetizers can be as cute as they are scrumptious — like these Baked Eggs in Butternut Squash Rings recipe form Lisa Steele, author of The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook. Here's how you make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large butternut squash
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 eggs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh sage for garnish
Directions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash the squash and cut crosswise into six 3/4- to 1-inch slices. Scoop out the seeds and hollow out the middle of each slice to allow room for an egg.
  2. Arrange the squash on the baking sheet and brush each ring with olive oil inside and out, then season with salt and pepper. Bake on the center rack of the oven for 20 minutes, until the squash has softened. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and gently crack and slide 1 egg into the center of each squash ring. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and return to the oven. Bake about 8 minutes, until the egg whites are set and the yolks are firm but not fully set.
  3. Use a spatula to slide the squash rings onto plates. Top with Parmesan, garnish with fresh sage, and drizzle with olive oil.

Sarah Anderson

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are such a reliable crowd-pleaser when it comes to Thanksgiving appetizer, or starters for any occasion, really! These 'shrooms in particular take inspiration from Greek cuisine and include tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, feta cheese, and salami.

Plant Provisions

Italian Savory Hand Pies

These hand pies are 100% vegan, so you can confidently serve them to a party of all diets. They're meaty, cheesy, herby, and definitely filling if you need to prep a decent snack ahead of your fancy Thanksgiving feast.

Parmigiano Reggiano

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

Chocolate and cheese work surprisingly well together, and these creative dipped bites will certainly have all the foodies at the function buzzing.

Snixy Kitchen

Butternut Squash and Bacon Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are such a classic snack, but they can easily become yummy Thanksgiving appetizers when you add butternut squash and bacon to the centers!

The Pioneer Woman

Perfect Fall Cheese Board

Transform your famous charcuterie board with fall accents to make a Thanksgivingappetizer that'll hit all the right taste buds.

Nutmeg Nanny

Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups

Don't you just love a bite-sized snack that's super quick to make?

The Home Cook's Kitchen

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Should your guests craves something that's creamy and crunchy, serve them these bready Thanksgiving appetizers.

Half Baked Harvest

Baked French Onion Meatballs

What do you get when you combine the savory flavors of French onion soup and meatballs? We'll give you a hint — it has something to do with being irresistible.

Half Baked Harvest

Cheesy Bacon Holiday Crack

Warning: biting into these sweet, spicy, crispy, and cheesy chips is the point of no return, but it's so worth it.

Savory Tooth

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Two-ingredient appetizers are always a winner in our book, and this one is extra hearty.

Pizzazzerie

Candied Walnut Bruschetta

Candied walnuts are excellent on their own, so imagine how they taste with pears and goat cheese on toast.

The Blond Cook

Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Soy sauce and brown sugar coat these mini hot dogs, and a touch of Sriracha makes them even more spice-tastic.

Sunkissed Kitchen

Roasted Carrot Hummus

Carrots and cinnamon are blended with classic hummus ingredients for a healthy dip to pair with pita chips. The pomegranate and pumpkin seed garnish really ups the presentation of this Thanksgiving appetizer.

Recipe Tin Eats

Caesar Salad Wonton Cups

Keep a package of wonton wrappers in the fridge, and you’ll never have to worry about what snacks to prep next for your party guests! This recipe stuffs the wraps with Caesar salad fixings, but the options are endless.

The Real Food Dietitians

Chili and Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Even if you don’t have a ton of time, you can easily roast up a batch of these smoky mixed nuts before your guests arrive.

Tara's Multicultural Table

French Onion Soup Toasts

Turn French onion soup into a convenient appetizer with crusty bread, sautéed onions, and smoky cheese! Yummm.

The Recipe Critic

Raspberry Baked Brie

Smooth goat cheese and tart raspberry preserves are a match made in snack heaven. The crispy puff pastry layer makes it all worth it.

Lavender and Lovage

Smoked Cheese and Onion Straws

If you have cheese lingering in your deli drawer, it’s the beginning of a tasty appetizer. Sprinkle it into some puff pastry for a twisty "straw" you'll reach for again and again.

The Seasoned Mom

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

The combo of chicken, bacon, and barbecue sauce results in a Thanksgiving appetizer that's almost impossible to stop eating.

Savory Tooth

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Bacon and Cheddar

Smokey bacon and salty, nutty cheddar top some earthy mushrooms for a new version of this classic stuffed app.

The Baking Fairy

Garlic-Stuffed Olives-in-a-Blanket

If you have vegetarian guests coming to your party, you’ll want to have a tasty option for them. These olives in a "blanket" do the trick nicely! As a bonus, most store-bought crescent roll dough is vegan.

The Cookie Rookie

Best Cheese Ball

There's a reason why sharp cheddar cheese balls are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. Serve them with buttery Ritz crackers to reach total snack nirvana.

Half Baked Harvest

Whipped Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates

Sweet and savory, this goat cheese dip is perfect for dipping crostini and vegetables in.

Live Eat Learn

Savory Roasted Cranberry Salsa

Top a cracker with sour cream (or brie or goat cheese) and spread on this cranberry salsa for a light, yet spicy-sweet bite.

Amanda Wilens

Pear and Gouda Puff Pastry

Pear really finds its life's purpose when it's tucked into a square of puff pastry and topped with salty gouda cheese.

Get more ideas and inspiration for your Thanksgiving appetizers and other festive holiday entertaining tips by following us on Pinterest or joining our newsletter.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Sara Cagle,Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.

The perks of having an older sister means I've been able to ask her all my more embarrassing questionsgrowing up. My whole life, we've chatted about everything from periods to sex to giving birth. Then one day, right before I graduated high school, she gifted me a book that changed everything: Nancy Redd's Body Drama: Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues, Real Answers. It not only helped me understand my body more, but it also helped soothe some of the insecurity I had before my postpartum body developed into what it is today.

I eventually gifted Body Drama to someone else, but I never forgot about how beneficial it was, and I always thought there should be more work like it out in the world. As it turns out, Nancy Redd wasn't done normalizing bodies and questions bout sexual health — the author and Wirecutter journalist just released The Real Body Manual: Your Visual Guide to Health & Wellness! Not only is it a great resource for those who are looking for answers to more specific health questions, but it's something I continue to revisit on the days my insecurity dampens my mood!

I chatted with Redd to understand more about her work — and I came out understanding even more about myself and how I want to help raise the future generation.

The Difference Between 'Body Drama' And 'The Real Body Manual'

Amazon

If you've had the pleasure of sticking your nose in Nancy Redd's Body Drama, you're familiar with how well-researched and thorough it is. In that regard, The Real Body Manual is no different — but Redd highlights it's still a "totally different book." She says, "The world has changed dramatically, and we're talking so much more about bodies, and we see a lot more bodies."

Despite seeing all those "real" bodies on TV and otherwise, women — and people in general — still don't feel great about themselves. According to a 2022 study, 32% of teens had a negative opinion about their acne, while 31% weren't comfortable with their weight. Meanwhile, another study shows that 80% of women have referred to themselves as "fat."

To combat troubling statistics like those, Redd hopesThe Real Body Manual can help. "I think we're all operating with not enough information about the world we live in, and I think the more information we can receive in a safe, educated, medically-accurate space, the better," she explains.

Centre for Ageing Better

Redd also really wanted to write a book that taught both her son and her daughter about their changing bodies — and she feels this is the perfect time for everyone to come together and learn about the way bodies not only look, but function. She likens these lessons to learning about world geography. "We don't just need to know about the small town we live in. We need to know about the state, country, the world-at-large," she stresses. And she thinks The Real Body Manual can help you "learn about your own body, your friends, and the people in society you live with."

If you look at the group of friends I have today, everyone doesn't have the same body shame. One of my friends is a little taller and curvier than I am while another is shorter and rounder. I dealt with acne-prone skin and dark spots while my best friend Cookie didn't really struggle with that. It's honestly rare that everyone will look the same — and that's okay! But learning about what's going on with all of us helps bridge our experiential gaps and creates better shared understanding.

And with that in mind, here are the 4 things I learned about my body — and all bodies — when chatting with Nancy and reading The Real Body Manual.

1. Understanding Your Body Doesn't Have To Look Like Everyone Else's

MART PRODUCTION

I grew up during a time where certain body types were celebrated more than others in media, and it had a negative effect on how I perceived my own body. I believed I wasn't supposed to have stretch marks because video vixens didn't, and became horrified when I discovered them in middle school as a slender girl. Not only that, but I didn't really develop curves until after I gave birth which made me feel like an outlier in my community.

Recent studies found there's a link between teens aged 16-18 years old developing body dysmorphia and social media...which doesn't sound surprising. And while there are countless body positive accounts that also exist — and I really do promise I'm not saying to completely ditch your socials — sometimes you have to take a step away from it (and other influencers) if it's having a negative impact on your self-esteem.

"Some bodies naturally look like those in music videos. I think separating that from being able to find love or have purpose in your life — they're completely separate things," Redd insists. She breaks things down even further by explaining why you not looking a certain way doesn't discount you from enjoying life. "Some people are born with the ability to be tennis stars, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pick up a tennis racket because you're not Serena Williams."

The main point she drives home is that "every person can have a great time with their bodies" which is why The Real Body Manual reads like an encouraging, evidence-based love letter to readers.

2. Loving Yourself Is A Choice

Anna Tarazevich

Just like I had to make the decision to fully accept the body I have, it's something Nancy says everyone has the ability to do. "It's literally a choice," she says before one of her kids quickly pops into our convo. In a tender moment, she asks her child, "Hello, do you love your body?"

This brief encounter circles back to the reason why The Real Body Manual matters — it opens up these conversations with our kids, offering a tangible resource for others. I know I try to have more conversations like this with my son, and I've even encouraged him to hug himself when he needs a little dose of self love.

"The things that matter — having purpose in life, feeling love, being a good community member — don't have much to do with whether you have hyperpigmentation, freckles, cellulite, etc.," she says. "The more you know from the beginning of your journey that bodies look different, the easier it is for you to accept [yourself]. But if the only bodies you're seeing are sexualized in pornography, videos, and magazines, you don't have a real basis."

It's one of the biggest reasons she intended for The Real Body Manual to be a visual guide.

3. Your Naked Body Is Beautiful

cottonbro studio

"I really like showing people what the body actually looks like for the most part," Redd says. Yeah, that's right — The Real Body Manual features real people's bodies, not just illustrations. In doing so, she says, "Everyone can see someone who resembles them." It doesn't matter if you're heavy-set, a person with different sized breasts, or anything in-between. The point is that you'll be able to find yourself somewhere in The Real Body Manual.

My mother told me how little information her own mom shared with her about bodies. Because of that, my mom always stressed that she wanted my sister and I to have access to whatever information we needed. She wanted us to be informed, and never inhibited by her own lack of comfort over a topic. But not all parents feel comfortable sharing with their kids.

Redd says, "I don't think it was done with malice. I think people are just working with whatever they have which is not a lot." She further notes people have chosen to refer to genitals as "down there" for both men and women instead of saying the proper term for them for their autonomy. I'll be honest — growing up in a religious background often means sexual shame was attached to very normal things like breasts and penises.

Not everyone was on board with me telling my toddler he has a penis instead of saying "pee pee" — or not talking about it at all, if we're being honest. But I wanted him to feel comfortable with what he was born with, and to know that his dad having the same anatomy is normal. "We just don't use the proper names for things which increases this shroud of secrecy about it. We aren't taught health literacy," Redd says.

4. 'The Real Body Manual' Is A Must-Have For Pre-Teens, Teens, And Adults

Yan Krukau

Funnily enough, Redd informs me that October is actually Health Literacy Month, making all this really round out. We should know what's going on with our bodies, whether it's the proper terminology, what changes we're going through, what we can look like. Ignorance only makes our experiences more confusing and harder — especially when we're young and probably have a million different questions.

She explains that if you ask people specifics like 'How does a period work,' then they may not know the answer. "The same goes for if you ask what's the difference between a freckle and a mole," Redd explains. "It may not seem like these things are a big deal, but when something goes wrong, you need to know 'I need to get this thing checked out.'"

Information is power, and when armed with information about our bodies we can lead safer, healthier lives. Instead of wondering why we don't talk about things enough, Redd decided to take the bull by the horns and talk about them — and she thinks you should talk about them, even (and sometimes especially) when they're uncomfortable. She says, "Any time you feel shame or discomfort discussing your body, that's a sign you don't have enough information."

If you find yourself unable to ask other people questions, but want to start feeling comfortable in your body, I highly recommend that you read both Body Drama and The Real Body Manual because they're equipped with detailed explanations — and helpful imagery — about how bodies actually look, work, and feel.

Buy 'The Real Body Manual' Here!

Amazon

The Real Body Manual

Looking for more incredible books to read right now? Check out our fave new reads here!

If there's one movie that will make you consider the advice you'd give your younger self, it's My Old Ass. The movie, streaming on Prime Video November 7, follows Elliot (Maisy Stella), who comes face-to-face with an older version of herself (Aubrey Plaza) during a mushroom trip. Throughout their time together, they share heartfelt advice, and, apparently, a lot of laughter.

"I feel like we absolutely [laughed while filming], but honestly the breaks worked for the scene," Maisy Stella tells Brit + Co's Chloe Williams. "So I feel like even when we're laughing, it's like not technically like, 'Oh cut, we have to go again.' You just keep going. But I think there was some real genuine laughter shared between between us two."

Maisy Stella And Megan Park Loved Working With Aubrey Plaza

cdn.ex.co

"I just remember there was a YouTube video of her that you showed me," says director Megan Park. "I don't know which one it was, but...this is, I think, where the kiss idea of the touching the ass [the scene that mentions the movie's title] came in because you were like 'God, she's so hot.'"

"Working with Aubrey was truly the coolest thing I'll ever get to do," Maisy adds. "I'm such a huge fan of her and have been forever. And so when I found out it was her doing it, I think I did a standing backflip."

Even though Aubrey Plaza was only on set for a week or two, she was able to form a real connection with Maisy, which is the mark of "the most genius actors" for Megan. "They didn't have a lot of time together, but they were so good at the time they did have together, just really being open and vulnerable and building that chemistry really quickly," she says. "Maisy has an older sister, Aubrey has younger sisters. So there was a kind of a natural dynamic that they fell into and you have really similar energies and similar senses of humor that just were such a great match."

During their conversation, Aubrey Plaza's Elliot gives Maisy Stella some serious life advice, and the movie really got Maisy and Megan to consider what advice they would give their younger selves. (They both adamantly express they don't want to know the future).

"Just to be a little more like alert and more present," Maisy says. "I think as a kid, I was like super unaware and in a way that was like beautiful but also like, I wasn't really seeing, I was kind of just looking around. Honestly I would tell my younger self what Aubrey told [my] Elliott in the movie."

"The message of the movie and that time goes by so quickly — it's not forever, everything changes all the time," Megan says. "Just a gentle reminder. But also I think it would be beautiful to go back and meet your younger self. That's such a therapeutic thing and just be reminded of the pace of your life back then."

"Not to be a monster, but I would definitely be like 'invest in Apple!'" she jokingly adds. Megan's sense of humor totally shines through the movie, and it can be summed up in the scene that shows us Elliot's youngest brother has a wall completely covered in photos of Saoirse Ronan.

Maisy Stella And Megan Park Spill On That Justin Bieber Dance Sequence

Marni Grossman/Amazon MGM Studios

"You know, it's funny, now I'm like, 'I want to put pictures of my kids,'" Megan says. "I have a new baby so I'm in very mom mode. Just obsessed with my children. I've been away from them a lot for work, so I could gladly live in a bedroom just smothered of photos of my children all over every square."

"Maddie Ziegler," Maisy says when I ask who she'd dedicate a wall to. "Maddie Ziegler is literally my answer...Yeah, I could go into who I would have on my wall, but I'm going to keep it at that." (ICYMI, Maisy seemingly went Instagram official with The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey in September).

Another hilarious moment comes when Elliot starts imagining a Justin Bieber concert...with herself as Justin. But has the global sensation seen the video?! "I've been waiting for my phone to ring and it hasn't yet," Maisy jokes. "I actually, like, never want him to see it. Ever. I know his team had to approve of it, but I don't know if he approved of it. It could have been them on his behalf, he's a busy man."

Jason Mendez/Getty Images

But with moments of levity comes serious and relatable issues that mark this movie as a coming of age film: family pressure, financial stress, and devastating relationships. The story is impactful as a viewer, but even more so for the team involved in making it.

"The months after [filming] my whole life had just kind of shifted and everything kind of rose to the top," Maisy says. "It changed so much of how I think and how I actively live, and I feel like it kind of did that for a lot of the people that were on the set honestly, just because it was such a like specific experience with such a loud message and so much nostalgia that I really took it all and kept it inside."

"It set the bar pretty high, both personally and creatively, in terms of what I want that next set experience to be like," Megan adds. "Working with people that you really care about that [become] like family. It really was a beautiful, hopefully not rare, but it was a really therapeutic, wonderful, just like ego-less environment that was so creative and so fun and healing."

Check out the other New November Movies We've Been Waiting All Year For!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

I didn't think it was possible, but Patrick and Brittany Mahomes may have restored my faith in high school sweethearts. It's been 12 years since they first started dating and they're still going strong as a married couple! They've also recently announced they're expecting baby no. 3 — which is no small feat when their lives are already so full.

Here's everything we know about this stunning football couple that's setting the tone for everyone else.

Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Verizon

March 2012: Patrick & Brittany Mahomes Become High School Sweethearts

Patrick and Brittany Mahomes started dating while they attended Whitehouse High School in Whitehouse, TX which makes them high school sweethearts! During an appearance on the TODAY show, Patrick talked about the beginning of their relationship. "I think at that point we had been dating for a couple months," he said before admitting he was "just a normal teenage kid showing up at the family dinner."

May 2013: Patrick & Brittany Go To Prom

The cute teens were still going strong a year later because they went to prom together! Patrick posted a pic on Instagram the day they were set to go and it perfectly captured the early 2010s (i.e. collage instead of carousel pictures). He wrote, "
Best prom date a guy could ask for," in his caption and I think we can agree they both felt that way.

Rob Carr/Getty Images

2013-2014: Patrick & Brittany Enter A Long Distance Relationship

Interestingly enough, Brittany went to college at the University of Texas at Tyler (via University of Texas at Tyler) while Patrick played football at Texas Tech University (via NCAA). It seems they were committed to stay together no matter what!

February 2, 2020: Brittany Supports Patrick After His Super Bowl Win

After Patrick was drafted to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017 (via Chiefs), the team won the Super Bowl in 2020 (via PEOPLE). They played against the San Francisco 49ers where the final scores were 31-20.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for TIME

September 2, 2020: Patrick Proposes To Brittany

Later that year, Patrick and Brittany got engaged! PEOPLE managed to grab the cute BTS screenshots of the special moments shared on the couple's individual Instagram stories and I think I've found the perfect ring replacement to send to my fiancé. JK!

September 29, 2020: Patrick & Brittany Announce Their First Pregnancy

The couple surprised everyone with their pregnancy announcement towards the end of September 2020 with Brittany writing, "Mom & Dad, taking a small detour to the wedding❤️," on Instagram. The couple looked cute as Brittany held her sonogram picture and Patrick held her tiny baby bump.

Patrick's pale pink shirt may have been a nod to their baby's gender because their daughter was born a few months later!

February 20, 2021: Patrick & Brittany Welcome Their Baby

Patrick & Brittany's daughter, Sterling Skye Mahomes, was born February 20, 2021. Not only did Brittany share the news of her birth on Instagram, but Patrick also shared the same picture on his page. Though they didn't show baby Sterling's face, they shared she weighed 6 lbs, 11 oz.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

March 20, 2021: Patrick & Brittany Share The First Photo Of Sterling

The closest baby reveal fans of Patrick & Brittany received is one where the NFL star held her in an adorable pic the month after Sterling was born. He posted it on Instagram to seemingly celebrate her being alive for a full month and it was a sweet gesture.

May 9, 2021: Brittany Gets Excited For Her First Mother's Day

On Mother's Day in 2021, Brittany expressed her excitement about celebrating the holiday as a new mom. PEOPLE reports she wrote on Instagram, "Dear Sterling, thank you for making me a mommy and being the biggest blessing EVER, Mommy & Daddy love you more than you will ever understand."

June 20, 2021: Brittany Celebrates Patrick's First Father's Day

Brittany also made sure Patrick was celebrated on Father's Day by sharing the cutest carousel of pictures featuring their family on Instagram. "Happy 1st Fathers Day!!! We love you❤️," she wrote. Fans were able to see Sterling's full face in most of the pictures and it's clear that she felt content in her dad's arms.

JC Olivera/Getty Images

March 12, 2022: Patrick & Brittany Make It Down The Aisle

Despite their baby detour, Patrick & Brittany got married in March 2022. They got married in Maui, HI and made sure little Sterling had a role as flower girl in their wedding (via PEOPLE). Brittany wasn't shy about posting candid moments from the couple's big day and seemed thrill to have their daughter there! "Having your daughter apart of your wedding, just hits different🥺💕 I love you sister girl💖," she wrote.

March 2022: Patrick & Brittany Enjoyed A Romantic Honeymoon

The couple celebrated a romantic honeymoon in St. Barts (via PEOPLE) and enjoyed time in nature. Brittany concluded they had "a perfect honeymoon" on her Instagram stories which seems like it was true!

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

May 29, 2022: Patrick & Brittany Announce They're Expecting Again

The couple enjoyed being parents so much they made another surprise pregnancy announcement with baby Sterling's help on May 29, 2022. Patrick wrote, "Round 2! 🤍" on Instagram and was met with congratulatory messages from fans! Sterling even held a sign that read, "Big sister duties coming soon."

June 26, 2022: Patrick & Brittany Reveal Baby No. 2's Gender

The couple were riding the high of preparing for their second baby because they couldn't wait to reveal the gender to PEOPLE. They both wore the cutest blue hoodies that said, "Baby Mahomes, boy or girl" with 'boy' circled in blue. Even Baby Sterling was all smiles in the first photo.

Jason Hanna/Getty Images

August 31, 2022: Brittany Celebrates Her Birthday With Patrick & Sterling

The couple then celebrated Brittany's 27th birthday which she documented on Instagram. She wore a cute navy blue set that complemented her baby bump while Patrick kept it cool and casual in a Fendi t-shirt, dark blue jeans, and sneakers. "Cheers to 27✨," Brittany wrote.

November 28, 2022: Patrick & Brittany Welcome Their Second Child

Shortly after Thanksgiving, Patrick & Brittany gave birth to their son, "Patrick 'Bronze' Lavon Mahomes III" who weighed "7lbs 8oz," according to the athlete's Instagram caption. Similar to Sterling's birth announcement, the couple didn't show little Patrick's face, just his feet in the cutest onesie I've ever seen. A diamond bracelet or necklace with their son's nickname was also placed right under his little body.

Fernando Leon/Getty Images

January 11, 2023: Patrick Becomes Co-Owner Of Women's Soccer Team With Brittany

This is one couple who isn't afraid of doing business together because Patrick joined Brittany as the co-owner of Kansas City Currents! He shared the following message on Instagram, "I am thankful for the chance to join @brittanylynne as part of the Kansas City Current's ownership team. She and the Longs have done an incredible job building a world-class organization and I am excited to join another championship-caliber club as it continues to make history."

January 29, 2023: Brittany Supports Patrick's Return To The Super Bowl

Brittany didn't waste time supporting Patrick heading back to the Super Bowl with the Chiefs again and brought along Sterling. She shared the cutest BTS video of Patrick running over to give them both a kiss before heading back on the field. She wrote, "So. Dang. Proud. OF YOUUUU❤️" as her caption.

February 9, 2023: Patrick Praises Brittany In His NFL MVP Speech

PEOPLE got the inside scoop on Patrick's MVP speech and he had nothing but kind words for his wife. "To my wife Brittany, my baby girl Sterling and my son Bronze, this crazy life that we are living means nothing without y'all, keeping me balanced, and making me appreciate every single day. No matter how I feel coming home, y'all bring me joy and make me appreciate the time that I get to spend with y'all. Thank you for always being there for me, through my good times and my bad. Love y'all," he said.

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

February 12, 2023: Patrick and Brittany celebrate his Super Bowl win

When Patrick and the Chiefs won the Super Bowl in 2023, Brittany made it known she continues to be his biggest supporter. She wasn't shy about heading to Instagram to let the world know just how proud she was of him. PEOPLE reports she screamed, "He did it," without hesitation.

May 1, 2023: Patrick and Brittany attend the Met Gala

The coupled attend 2023's Met Gala together in classic looks that showed they know how to dress to impress. The only thing that wasn't traditional about Brittany's look were here sky high metallic heels and sequin bardot neckline.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

February 11, 2024: Brittany and Patrick celebrate his 2024 Super Bowl win

It shouldn't come as a surprise, but Brittany was front and center when Patrick, along with the Chiefs, won this year's Super Bowl. PEOPLEreports she made sure to carry their kids onto the field to see their dad before the game kicked off, making everyone swoon with admiration.
And when she posted the stylish photo of them holding Patrick's MVP trophy, it made me understand why being a WAG wife may not be such a bad thing.

Brittany brought Sterling and Bronze onto the field before Patrick's fourth Super Bowl game and the couple celebrated together after the quarterback led his team to victory. When Patrick accepted the MVP trophy, his third in total, he expressed his gratitude for Brittany and their kids.

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

July 12, 2024: Baby No. 3 Is On The Way

Baby No. 3 is officially on the way as the couple have announced their family is getting bigger. Brittany and Patrick look closer than even in this carousel, making me thinking have three kids isn't so bad! "Family of 5 coming soon🥹 blessings on blessings🙏🏻🤍," says Brittany's caption.

September 8, 2024 Patrick & Brittany Mahomes Attend The US Open With Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce

Instagram/15andMahomies

October 28, 2024: Patrick & Brittany Step Out At Charity Gala

The couple stepped out on the red carpet for their 15 and Mahomes Foundation Gala in honor of their charity. They couldn't stop smiling in these pictures from the charity's Instagram story — and I can see why! Aside from the fact they're getting ready to welcome their third child, they genuinely looked excited to be celebrating their charity.

October 31, 2024: Patrick & Brittany Celebrate Halloween With Their Kids

Patrick & Brittany Mahomes had the best family Halloween costumes this year! They shared a super cute photo of them posed with their kids and let's just say the Mahomes zoo was open for business. Patrick took on the role as a zookeeper while Brittany donned a mommy kangaroo costume that featured a joey in her pouch. It was a cute nod to their growing family, but we can't forget about Sterling and Bronze! Sterling wore a pretty pink flamingo costume while Bronze looked precious as a little lion.

There's no way the Mahomes can get any cuter!

Instagram/BrittanyLynne

November 4, 2024 — Brittany Celebrates Patrick's 8th Chiefs Win Of The Season

Brittany reported for WAG duties at the Chiefs vs. Buccaneers game on Monday, November 4, 2024 — and cheered alongside her BFF Taylor Swift throughout the game! This TikTok shows the two celebrating one of Patrick's touchdown passes, but it appears Brittany quickly realizes and tells Taylor that "Patrick's hurt." Luckily, it seems Pat was fine after all, but it can be scary business being a WAG!

Meanwhile, Brittany posted a video later of their daughter, Sterling, sharing her own football commentary. PEOPLEreported that in an Instagram story, Brittany asks Sterling, "What's so rude?" Sterling then responds, "If they take the ball from daddy and score a touchdown by theirselves, that means they're so rude." Clearly the Chiefs love — and loyalty — runs deep in this family! 😂

Injuries aside and interesting football takes aside (I'm looking at you, Sterling!), Brittany posted to Instagram, celebrating Patrick's big win. As the only team left with an undefeated record in the NFL this year, her caption is incredibly appropriate: "8 & ZERO😎" We love to see these two winning together!

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This post has been updated.