Telltale Signs That Your Hormones Are Out of Balance (and How to Restore Them)

Natasha Lavender
Feb 04, 2019

If you were born with ovaries, at some point you’ve probably had someone inform you that your hormones are making you irrational, sad, and/or angry. Which probably made you even more annoyed. But sexist comments aside, sometimes hormones do get out of balance, which can lead to some undesirable side effects. Here’s how to tell if your hormones really are unbalanced, and what you can do about it.

How Your Sex Hormones Work

The two main hormones produced in the ovaries are estrogen and progesterone. To understand why your sex hormones are important, you have to understand what a hormone is. “Hormones are chemicals in the blood that act as the messaging system to coordinate appropriate function among parts of the body that are not close to each other,” explains Joshua U. Klein, FACOG, co-founder and chief medical officer of Extend Fertility Medical Practice in New York. In this case, he says, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland coordinate the release of estrogen and progesterone in the ovaries.

The basic job of these two hormones is to prepare your uterus for pregnancy every month. Estrogen’s role is to build up the uterine lining that will either host a fertilized egg or be shed as your period. The first day of your period is also day one of your menstrual cycle, when your estrogen levels are lowest (about 40 pg/ml), explains Mary Jane Minkin, clinical professor of OB/GYN at Yale University School of Medicine. Estrogen gradually builds up over the month, she says, eventually peaking, around day 22 or so, when your estradiol — a form of estrogen — levels may be as high as 350 pg/ml.

Meanwhile, progesterone isn’t released until you ovulate. “Progesterone levels are almost zero until about day 14 or 15 of your cycle, when you ovulate and they increase dramatically,” Minkin says. “By day 22 or so, your progesterone levels will be 30 ng/dl.” Progesterone is released by the corpus luteum, a temporary gland that forms in the ovary, and it thickens up that uterine lining to make it hospitable for a fertilized egg. If no fertilization occurs at that day 22 peak, your estrogen and progesterone levels drop off, the uterine lining and the egg leave (that’s your period), and it all starts again.

Symptoms and Causes of a Hormonal Imbalance

If you have working ovaries, it’s normal to have fluctuating hormone levels throughout the month. “Hormones vary by the individual, the stage of life, and the time of the month in people of reproductive age,” says Daniel Kort, an OB/GYN and associate medical director of Neway Fertility. “Furthermore, many of these hormones ‘pulse’ up and down many times throughout the day — in some cases, every hour. Therefore, what is ‘normal’ varies drastically between people, and for any individual over the course of their life.”

However, sometimes your body simply isn’t getting your hormone levels right. This is particularly true, says Minkin, for people with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): “In general, they’ll have high levels of estrogen all month, as many will not ovulate regularly, and because they are not ovulating, they have low progesterone,” she explains. And because estrogen is what promotes the uterine lining to grow, “they occasionally can bleed very heavily.” Sandra Fleming, FACOG, an OB/GYN in Wellesley, MA, also points to premature menopause and thyroid disorders as two other endocrine disorders that can throw your estrogen and progesterone out of whack. “This can result in irregular or heavy menses, acne, unwanted hair growth, thinning hair, weight gain, infertility, and mood changes,” she explains.

Unsurprisingly, given how much variation there can be between different people’s natural hormone levels, symptoms that you’re experiencing an imbalance “vary depending on the individual,” says Kort. “But the most common symptoms are irregular vaginal bleeding, pelvic fullness, and temperature dysregulation, or feeling too hot or too cold.” Although Kort says that depression and irritability often aren’t necessarily symptoms of a sex hormone imbalance, Klein points out that symptoms aren’t always connected directly to your uterus. Women and people assigned female at birth “also sometimes perceive a reproductive hormone imbalance in secondary ways, for example, headaches, fatigue, decreased libido,” he says. “The role of hormone balance in mental health should also not be overlooked. Estrogen and progesterone levels have a significant role in regulating mood and one’s sense of well-being.” We’re not saying that your bad moods are always a byproduct of your hormones: But if you are experiencing emotional swings and feeling depression or anxiety, especially at similar times of your cycle every month, it could be connected — and you should see a doctor anyway.

What You Can Do

On top of these symptoms and the health implications of PCOS, there can, unfortunately, be long-term impacts from a progesterone and estrogen imbalance. “A direct result of irregular ovulation would be difficulty getting pregnant, since a regular ovulation is a necessary prerequisite to pregnancy,” Dr. Klein cautions. It goes beyond your reproductive organs: “The biggest or most well-known implications are for bone health, heart health, and cognitive function,” Kort adds. “Women with serious dysfunction of the ovary and ovarian hormones need a full evaluation to see if treatment is necessary.”

Luckily, for many people, there are treatments available. “Depending on the cause of the hormonal imbalance, different treatments can establish the appropriate hormone levels,” Kort reassures us. “Sometimes something as simple as birth control pills can help. In other cases, hormonal replacement therapy with hormone patches are necessary. In still others, medications can be given to induce normal ovarian function, which will correct the underlying problem.”

Ultimately, if something feels wrong, go to a medical provider you trust. “If you are concerned about any of these issues, do see your gynecological health care provider, who can help sort out exactly what is causing any menstrual irregularities,” Minkin encourages. People with ovaries are often silently or subtly told that we should just deal with whatever our hormones throw at us, from heavy periods to headaches and feeling depressed or anxious. But if you’re experiencing any disruptive and/or painful symptoms that you think are related to the way your hormones are working, know that you don’t have to put up with it.

Have you found a solution to your misbehaving hormones? Share your experience with us @BritandCo.

(Photo via Getty)

5 Easy Journal Prompts To Turn Your Day Around

Last night I realized I was pregnant during the height of the pandemic and the 2020 election cycle, but I didn't have any self-care practices in sight. I was chronically stressed and spent way too much time on social media when I should've been finding ways to ground myself. After a tough four years of navigating everything from motherhood to starting my career, I've finally started utilizing gratitude journaling as a tool to get through tough days.

I don't know how you may be feeling today, but I've created journal prompts you can refer to when you're scared, anxious, unsure of the future, and more. They're not meant to replace meditation or seeking therapy, but they are here for moments you need to check in with yourself.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Worried About The Future

Arina Krasnikova

Write Down 5 Things You're Grateful You Can See, Touch, Hear, And Smell

This is actually a practice I picked up in therapy to help redirect my anxious thoughts. It's something I often refer to when I'm fixated on the future and things that might happen. Any time you feel yourself not being present because you're worried about what's next, focus on things that are immediately in front of you or around you.

For example, here's what's reminding me to be present:

  • I can hear one of my favorite gospel songs playing and the subtle humming I'm doing.
  • I can see two lime green books on my desk.
  • I can smell the clean laundry my fiancé took out of the dryer.
  • I'm touching the keys on my keyboard as I type this.
Although they seem small, I'm grateful they're helping to keep me rooted in the present moment. So, what are you grateful you can see, touch, hear, and smell today?

Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Experiencing Sadness

Darina Belonogova

Write Down 3 Things You're Grateful For Today

Practicing gratitude when you're sad isn't so you can pretend the sadness doesn't exist. It's a very real emotion that calls for us to be curious about why we're feeling that way. However, if you feel like you're 'stuck' in your sadness, you can try writing down 3 things you're grateful for right now. Again, they don't have to be grandiose. They just have to make sense to you.

You could be grateful for:

  • Eating a delicious meal
  • Having a good night's sleep
  • Hearing your favorite song at the right moment
  • Morning snuggles with your pet or toddler
  • Having access to binge watch your favorite TV show when you need to escape reality for a bit

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down The People You're Grateful You Can Rely On

My hope is that everyone has at least one person they can rely on during difficult moments in life. I know everyone doesn't have huge villages for different reasons, but I'd rather focus on who is there.

This gratitude journaling idea doesn't require you to go in depth about why you're grateful for the people in your corner unless you want to. You can simply write their names down if that's all you have the bandwidth for.

Pavel Danilyuk

Recount A Memory That Always Makes You Smile

When in doubt, think about a moment that was hilarious or filled you with joy. It can be from your childhood, first year in college, or even your wedding day! The one memory that always makes me smile is from an interesting moment I told one of my uncles he looked like Santa Claus. I was around 5 or 6 years old, so it was a super innocent comment, but still it was hilarious nonetheless. No one in my family has let my uncle or me forget that moment. It's small, but it's one of the memories I'm grateful I can remember when I'm feeling sad.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You Feel You're Not Doing Enough

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down 1 Thing You've Grateful You've Accomplished

I know some journal prompts ask you to list multiple things you've recently accomplished, but I've found that makes me a little more anxious that necessary. If this sounds like you, I see you and think it's just as impactful to be grateful for one thing you've done that you're proud of. It could be as simple as:

  • "I had the strength to get out of bed today after wanting to do nothing more than hide under the covers."
  • "I did laundry and put everything away."
  • "I made myself a meal instead of ordering lunch like I usually do."
  • "I stuck to my budget this week."
  • "My presentation at work or school went really well."
  • "I made that scary phone call I've been putting off."
  • "I went for a walk around my neighborhood or local park."

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13 Quick & Easy Ways To Calm Down When You’re Stressed Out

Lately, we've been faced with anxiety everywhere we turn. It's okay if (like us), you don't always know how to deal with the toughest of times, especially when the tough times never seem to end. If you are feeling that way, we're right there with you! Our team has always shared the ways we cope with our personal stressors over the years, and we wanna share these quick and easy tips for how to calm down with you! Keep reading for our recommendations — hopefully they can help the next time you're feeling anxious.

Thirdman

Intentional Thoughts

I'm someone who has a hard time letting things go; I can agonize over one thought or situation for days! Because of this, I focus a lot on taking thoughts captive, which just means pinpointing anxious thoughts and replacing them with what I know is true.

When I have an anxious thought, I do a creative visualization exercise in which I imagine it's inside a bubble floating over my head. Then I slam an imaginary door over the memory and lock it. Then the bubble explodes and the thought doesn't exist anymore. It's not necessarily pretending like it never happened, but it does allow me to exercise some control over what I allow myself to spend time and energy thinking about.

—Choe Williams, Entertainment Editor

Mikhail Nilov

Breathing Techniques

My mom is a Pre-K teacher and suggested I try the breathing exercises she does with her kids who are just four years old (I'm 31 for context). The first is called Mountain Breathing, which entails holding up your hand and tracing the outline of your fingers. As you climb up the mountain (or your finger), inhale, and as you trace down into the valley between your fingers, exhale. Another breathing visualization she recommends is as you inhale, imagine yourself breathing in to smell the flowers, and exhale to blow out a candle. These little imaginative scenarios help me get out of my head and focus on my breathing when I need a little reset throughout the day.

Hammock Swinging

Whenever I'm feeling super stressed, I head for the hammock I setup in my front yard. Just as rocking can soothe babies, swinging in a hammock is a powerful soother for adults too! I feel super chilled afterwards and am usually getting some Vitamin D while I'm at it for a win-win.

Painting

During the pandemic, I revisited arts and crafts with soft pastels. I started mixing the colors and doing gradient shadings on card stock with my hands, and it proved to be a super meditative way to decompress. The end result is DIY art you can share or pin on your fridge or wall.

—Alison Ives, Head Of Content

KoolShooters

Breathing Techniques

Nothing calms me down quite like alternate-nostril breathing. I first learned about this technique in my yoga classes, but the practice (called Nadi Shodhana in Sanskrit) dates back to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which was thought to be written sometime between 200 BC and 200 CE. Put simply, you sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and cover one nostril while you breathe in through the other. Then, you switch which nostril you're holding closed, and breathe out. In modern times, the connection between vagal nerve tone (which is correlated with anxiety and emotional regulation) and alternate-nostril breathing is becoming more and more mainstream, which may eventually help us better understand why this practice is so naturally calming.

Tarot Reading

Tarot can mean a lot of different things to different people. For me, I use tarot cards as a method to help me understand what lessons I'm learning at any given time. This has allowed me to view stressors in my life as learning experiences, which has helped me stay calm in numerous crises. I personally like to light some incense or a scented candle, sit quietly, and pull a card to see what resonates. That said, tarot and its associated images and meanings can be scary or triggering if you don't have a deep and gentle understanding of what the cards mean. I recommend Lindsay Mack's classes and podcasts for anyone who wants to learn about tarot in a non-judgemental, non-predictive, trauma-informed way.

—Maggie McCracken, Former Senior Editor

Gustavo Fring

Sensory Accessories

My recent ways of coping/de-stressing have primarily been spiky sensory finger rings, which are a huge help when I need to get something done and can't stop my day to destress. I grab one of these guys which I have all over the place (most of my jacket pockets + purses), and it helps to calm me down and reset my focus.

Meditation On The Move

Another thing I do that I am trying to integrate into my daily routine is guided meditation walks. As someone who hasn't mastered sitting meditation I've found some on Headspace that I'm enjoying that are specifically for going on a walk through a city.

—Claire Shadomy, Former Graphic Designer

Kate Branch

Baths...

In times of high stress, or after a long day, my go-to is always a candle-lit bath soak. I put a large scoop of Epsom salts in the tub with a few drops of my favorite essential oil and place tea lights all around the tub. It’s like my secret getaway from the rest of the world. I always make a point to leave my phone in the other room too so I utilize the time to just relax in silence. Water triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's “rest and digest” response. It always gets my heart rate and blood pressure down.

...And Sound Baths

Sound baths are a meditative experience where you’re “bathed” in sound waves. I love to watch them online but you can also create your own experience. I find meditating with a singing bowl so relaxing. It can take a little practice, but once you’ve nailed the hand movement, it’s an interactive way to ease stress and channel your focus elsewhere.

—Allison Cimo, Former Social Media Manager

Brady Knoll

Take A Hike

Pretty much every day in 2020 I walked the trails near my house and I started to pick up a small rock each time. I'd fidget with it while I cleared my mind and let nature calm my nerves. I would throw the rock back into nature after my hike and it felt like a release for all of my worries.

Bedtime Music

My daughter and I listen to Doze sleep music on Headspace before we go to bed. It calms her late-night zoomies (and mine) and gets her to sleep in minutes!

—Theresa Gonzalez, Branded Content Editor

Anastasia Shuraeva

Journaling

What I use for my anxiety is the Intelligent Change Five Minute Journal. I have a safe word in place for when I feel myself spiraling or I'm not able to control my thoughts and breathing.

—Brittney Davis, Account Manager

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This post has been updated.

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Nina Dobrev & Shaun White's Wedding Will Be A "Party" & Duh!

There are some celebrity couples that feel like a match made in Heaven. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and more recently, Shaun White and Nina Dobrev. Not only are they both gorgeous, talented, and incredibly driven people, but they're also one of the funniest celeb couples to follow along with on social media.

Here's everything you need to know about their relationship!


A Timeline Of Nina Dobrev And Shaun White's Relationship

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Dior Men

End Of 2019 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Are Introduced

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White officially met when they both spoke at a Tony Robbins workshop in Florida. Even though Shaun didn't know about anything about Nina at the time, he told People he realized she was a big deal when a bunch of people asked for pictures with her!

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

February 2020 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Spend Time In South Africa

In 2020, when Nina Dobrev was filming Redeeming Love, fans started noticing that her Instagram photos and Shaun White's were taken in the same locations, even though they were making separate posts. Turns out, Nina had gotten Shaun to come visit her!

Image via Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Fresh Vine Wine

April 18, 2020 — Nina Dobrev And Shaun White Make Their Relationship Instagram Official

In true 21st century dating fashion, Nina Dobrev and Shaun White took their relationship to the next level when they made it Instagram official. It's a pretty big step for any couple, but especially celebrities. If it's nerve-wracking telling your friends and acquaintances, imagine telling millions of fans! Instead of a regular photo, Nina posted a video that features a glimpse of Shaun's tattoo.

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

May 29, 2020 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Quarantine Together

Like so many of us, Nina Dobrev and Shaun White had to take haircuts into their own hands during quarantine. "Adding to resume: hairdresser ✂️," Nina captioned an Instagram post of her giving Shaun an at-home haircut.

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

September 3, 2020 — Shaun White Turns 34

To celebrate Shaun White's 34th birthday, Nina Dobrev made a hilarious Instagram tribute to honor the snowboarder. "To the most untalented, humorless, least athletic, least coordinated, least gifted and my least favorite person.... happy birthday @shaunwhite," she says in the caption. "Hang in there. one day you will accomplish something. #dontgiveup"

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White's age difference is two years — Shaun was born in 1986 and Nina was born in 1989!

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

Late 2020 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Celebrate The Holidays For The First Time As A Couple

The holidays looked different for Nina Dobrev and Shaun White at the end of 2020, but they didn't let that stop them from celebrating. "I’m so thankful to be surrounded by so much love!!" Shaun says in his Thanksgiving Instagram post. "Getting older and watching my family continue to grow has been incredible. Hope everyone out there had an amazing thanksgiving!" The couple also celebrated Christmas together, with plenty of Santa hats and gifts to go around!

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

January 9, 2021 — Nina Dobrev Turns 32

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White chose wacky '80s getup to celebrate the actress' 32nd birthday. "Too bad we never have any fun together," Shaun says in his birthday Instagram post. "Happy birthday baby!"

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

February 8, 2021 — Nina Dobrev And Shaun White Hang Out With Her Vampire Diaries Costar

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White took to the slopes alongside Paul Wesley (who starred opposite Nina in The Vampire Diaries) and his wife Ines de Ramon. "Sometimes you gotta double up to double down," Nina captioned her post of the quartet at Wyoming's Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

February 14, 2021 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Share Their First Valentine's Day

Both Nina Dobrev and Shaun White made tributes to each other on the 'gram in honor of their first V-Day as a couple. "My favorite snow cone flavor is White," Nina says in her Instagram post. "Happy we got “stuck together” last year and stuck it out ;) happy valentine’s day to my quarantini in crime..."

"Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️," Shaun says in his caption. "I never knew I was so lickable till we met 😂... Thank you for keeping a smile on my face and being the beautiful person you are!"

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

October 31, 2021 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Wear An Iconic Couple's Halloween Costume

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White knocked Halloween out of the park with a hilarious, gender-swapped couple's costume inspired by The Queen's Gambit. Nina dressed as Thomas Brodie Sangster's Benny and Shaun went with Anya Taylor Joy's Beth. "Your move @anyataylorjoy ♟👑," Shaun says on Instagram.

Image via Clive Rose/Getty Images

February 2022 — Shaun White Competes In The Bejing Winter Olympics

In October of 2021, ahead of his involvement in the Beijing Olympics, Shaun White told People just how supportive Nina Dobrev had been for him. "Nina's incredible," he says in the interview. "What an influence on my life. Not only does she run her own show, her own world, companies she's involved in, things she's producing, all this stuff going on. She holds me to this same high standard which is so wonderful to have in a partner."

“We’ll be anxiously watching [Shaun compete] from home and cheering him on,” Nina Dobrev tells Us Weekly in early 2022. “I’m very, very excited for him. I can’t wait.”

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

March 5, 2022 — Nina Dobrev Throws Shaun White An On-Brand Retirement Party

Shaun White might have cut off his iconic red hair, but that didn't stop Nina Dobrev from using it as inspo for his retirement party! The get together was complete with red wigs, family reunions, and lots of selfies. "Celebrating the 🐐 and bringing back the 👩🦰 one last time…#RetirementPartyAt35," Nina captioned her Instagram post. Then they followed the party up with a tropical getaway!

Image via Lia Toby/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

May 19, 2022 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Make Their Red Carpet Debut

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White attended the London premiere of Top Gun: Maverick in the summer of 2022. It marked their first red carpet appearance since becoming a couple *and* gave them the chance to support their friend Miles Teller!

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

June 2022 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Take A Vacation

Nina and Shaun went on another vacation in the summer of 2022, complete with lots of beach time and plenty of beverages. Some of Nina's Instagram captions include "When it’s so blue outside it’s impossible to feel blue on the inside" and "Coconut or cocktail? There are two types of people in the world" and the photos are so cute I could cry.

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

October 1, 2022 — Shaun White Makes An SNL Appearance

During Miles Teller's run as SNL host, Shaun White joined his friend onstage. "Live from New York it’s Saturday Night!
Congrats to my buddy #MilesTeller on hosting @nbcsnl," Shaun wrote on Instagram. "Not surprised that you killed it. But I was very surprised when I arrived to support you…and they pulled me on stage to be part of a sketch 😂 Stoked to be a part of your big moment!!

"I loved being an emotional support animal 🐆 @nbcsnl," Nina captioned her post.

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

October 31, 2022 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Dress Up As Stranger Things 4 Characters For Halloween

In another iconic Halloween couple's costume, Nina and Shaun dressed up as Max and Vecna from the acclaimed fourth episode of Stranger Things 4 — with Nina as Vecna and Shaun as Max, of course. "Stranger things have happened," Nina said in her post, while Shaun admitted in his post, "not gonna lie I’ve miss the long hair."

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

January 9, 2020 — Nina Dobrev Turns 34

"What planet are you from and will you take me with you?!" Shaun asks in his birthday photo featuring Nina Dobrev in a pink wig. "Thanks for making life incredible! Happy birthday my love."

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

June 26, 2023 — Shaun White Joins Nina Dobrev At The Out-Laws Premiere

Nina Dobrev and Shaun White stunned on the red carpet for Nina's movie The Out-Laws.

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

December 31, 2023 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Spend New Year's Eve In St. Barth's

If you ask me, Nina Dobrev and Shaun White have one of the most iconic friend groups ever. Miles and Keleigh Teller, as well as Chace Crawford, joined the couple in St. Barth's for New Year's. Can I come next time?!

Image via Nina Dobrev/Instagram

January 9, 2024 — Shaun White Surprises Nina Dobrev With A Trip To Disneyland

I love a good surprise, especially when the surprise goes off without a hitch. For Nina's 35th birthday, Shaun (as well as a bunch of their friends like Julianne Hough) surprised Nina with a Disney trip and judging by Nina's reaction, it was just about the best present she could have asked for. The day consisted of a custom Mickey jacket, taking a party bus, roller coasters, and more!

"Happiest surprise on the happiest day at the happiest place on earth," Nina says in her Instagram post. "I have to say I am HARD to SURPRISE. I always know what’s up. But they got me good. I’m still in shock to be honest. Feeling incredibly lucky, celebrated, loved, grateful and appreciative of all the wonderful souls I am fortunate to surround myself with."

Screenshots via Shaun White/TikTok

February 1, 2024 — Shaun White Calls Nina Dobrev His "Perfect Score"

At the beginning of February, Shaun White posted a TikTok of him and Nina Dobrev snowboarding together. Rather than snowboarding side by side, they're almost on top of one another as Shaun literally lifts Nina off the ground to spin them around. It's literally the cutest moment, and it makes *me* want to go snowboarding — if I have someone to snowboard with ;).

Screenshot via Nina Dobrev/Instagram Stories

February 11, 2024 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Attend The Super Bowl

Shaun and Nina shared a few flicks from their adventures before, during, and after Super Bowl LVIII on Instagram. The couple watched the game, flew over Las Vegas, together, and even sipped some Don Julio tequila to celebrate after the fact.

My favorite moments that the duo documented on social were definitely Nina chowing down on a hot dog in the stands (that's so me), Shaun dancing along to Usher's halftime show, and them sharing a kiss after the big Chiefs win!

The two just look *so* happy together, and that makes me happy.

"Can you propose to this women yet? Beautiful couple!!!😍🔥," one commenter wrote on Instagram... and I'm wondering the exact same thing!

Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Vanity Fair

March 10, 2024 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Do Date Night At Oscars Afterparty

The stars always show out for the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty, and Shaun and Nina were no exception to that rule! Our fave fiery couple looked amazing on the red carpet, but their best look? These two were smitten and all smiles on Nina's Instagram! Major heart eyes moment to say the least!

Screenshots via Shaun White/TikTok

April 3, 2024 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Go Snowboarding (Again)

Snowboarding might not be a new thing for this "it" couple, but they still find a way to make it more fun every time they go. "Nina dropped her snowboard, so we had to go rescue it," Shaun says in a recent TikTok. In the video, he's carrying Nina while they snowboard and I am more than impressed! "Not all heroes wear capes," the caption reads.

Image via Shaun White/Instagram

April 6, 2024 — Shaun White And Nina Dobrev Celebrate Spring

Shaun White recently posted a recap of the sweetest spring date with Nina Dobrev and it's got me dreaming of warm afternoons and sunshine! "Lil’ bit of life lately 🍑," he says on Instagram. In addition to a video of the couple singing along to the radio, my favorite photo is Shaun and Nina in their bright orange jackets with the city in the background. I cannot wait for spring!

Shaun White/Instagram

July 2024 — Shaun White and Nina Dobrev Head To The Olympics

Shaun White and Nina Dobrev are currently in Paris, France for the 2024 Olympics...along with Zac Efron apparently. The couple partied it up, but when they got back to their hotel and realized the elevator was out, Shaun climbed more than three flights of stairs with Nina on his back!

The Vampire Diaries actress is still recovering from a dirt bike accident in May, and has recently moved from crutches to a cane. We're wishing Nina a speedy recovery!

Nina Dobrev/Instagram

August 28, 2024 — Shaun White & Nina Dobrev Attend A Gossip Girl Star's Wedding, And Look Good Doing It

Shaun White and Nina Dobrev turned up in style to Jessica Szohr's (who you'll recognize as Vanessa from GG) wedding to Brad Richardson. Nina served as Jessica's Maid of Honor, and their Instagram posts have me emotional!!

"Almost two decades of friendship, there’s almost nothing we haven’t been through together," Nina says in her caption. "It makes me so happy to see you glowing with such a huge smile on your face. It’s an indescribable feeling to see your best friend marry the man of her dreams and create a beautiful (arguably the most beautiful) family together. It’s just the beginning, your life starts now. Congratulations you two lovebirds 🤍🤍🤍 i love you both so much!!!"

"You have been there with me through thick and thin for almost 2 decades… so thank you… thank you Nina for all you’ve done throughout our friendship- but especially for all the wedding events;)," Jessica's post says. "You outdid yourself … going through a surgery, had a movie coming out, redoing a house, and being such an amazing friend through everything. For real- love you more than you will ever know!"

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A post shared by Shaun White (@shaunwhite)

October 30, 2024 — Nina Dobrev And Shaun White Announce Their Engagement

Nina and Shaun announced that they're engaged at the end of October, and in Julianne Hough's words, "made all our dreams come true!" The couple posted separate Instagram posts celebrating the news, and Nina's definitely made me laugh: "RIP boyfriend, hello fiancé."

Shaun popped the question in front of a beautiful arch decorated in white roses (with a 5-carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring, no biggie), and literally swept Nina off her feet. "I went into shock. I just froze and stared at him,” Nina tells Vogue. And even though she says she blacked out and doesn't remember the actual proposal, she does know "he said all the right things.” I could cry!

The proposal came after Shaun had had to reschedule a few times (once after her dirt bike accident and once after she suspected it on their Cape Town vacation) — and to make sure Nina wasn't suspicious, he sent her a fake invitation to a dinner with Anna Wintour! "He made the invite look so legitimate,” Nina says.

Their upcoming nuptials will be quite the event, and one source tells People their wedding will be a "blowout party." I'm not even the slightest bit surprised. “They are the perfect fit together — fun and adventurous, but also very grounding for each other,” the source says. “After the proposal, they were calling and texting friends saying, 'It can't get better than this' and were just glowing.”

Check back here for the latest update on Shaun White and Nina Dobrev, and read up on Gigi Hadid And Bradley Cooper’s Full Relationship Timeline.

This post has been updated.

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Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club Pick For November Is In!

Did you know November is National Native American Heritage Month? Reese Witherspoon does, and she's excited for readers to get to know Nemonte Nenquimo's story with her book club. Indigenous people have long deserved to have their stories and activism championed, so we're excited one of the year's most inspiring memoirs will be in more readers' hands! Here's everything you should know about the latest book club pick!

When did Reese's Book Club announce its November pick?

Instagram/ReesesBookClub

Reese's Book Club made the exciting announcement almost a week ago — and it was met with plenty excitement from fans! One person wrote, "Yes! This is SUCH. AN. AMAZING. MEMOIR. 👏" while another said, "Incredibly powerful and moving 🥹🤍."

We can't wait to dig into this inspiring read!

What has Reese Witherspoon said about it?

Reese's Book Club

Reese Witherspoon is excited about November's pick for several reasons. She said it's "an unforgettable memoir about fighting for your home and your heart" before adding how she was "moved by this story." You know if Reese was moved, it's gonna be a good one — that woman knows how to pick a book!

What is 'We Will Be Jaguars' about?

Instagram/ReesesBookClub

Unlike most of Reese's Book Club picks, We Will Be Jaguars is Nemonte Nenquimo's memoir. Beginning with her birth in Ecuador's Amazon forest, Nenquimo found herself belonging to the Waorani tribe. From learning how to identify the healing components of nature and telling stories, she was immersed in her tribe's culture until she decided to briefly leave to study with missionaries.

However, Nenquimo answered her ancestors call to remember where she comes from and she began focusing on climate change. She's led the initiative against Big Oil that's harming the Amazon and has gone toe to toe with various groups, even some of those she once studied with.

With her husband Mitch Anderson's help, she hopes We Will Be Jaguars continues debunking horrific myths about indigenous culture by introducing readers to their beautiful history.

Shop Reese's Book Club November Pick Here!

Amazon

We Will Be Jaguarsby Nemonte Nenquimo and Mitch Anderson

Need more reading inspiration for the upcoming year? Check out the new books we can't wait to read!

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

28 Tasty Thanksgiving Cocktails That Are Full Of Boozy Fall Flavor

The rush of the holidays and planning the perfect holiday feast is no joke — finding the best Thanksgiving cocktails, roasting a delicious turkey and, of course, getting creative with leftovers — it all makes it hard to kick back and relax. We think you should find a moment for yourself (or with a few pals) and celebrate the wonderful flavors we love so much this time of year.

Instead of going for the tired pumpkin spice latte, think more along the lines of a boozyfall cocktail. Picture bourbon cocktails with cinnamon, caramel, apple… you know, all the autumn classics. We don't recommend sampling these Thanksgiving cocktails all in one night, but let's just say it'll be difficult to only choose one. We can't wait to try these Thanksgiving cocktails!

Brit + Co

Nespresso White Russian

Combining booze with coffee makes it somewhat more acceptable to knock one back during that late-morning, gathering-before-dinner time period, no? We love any excuse to get cozy with Nespresso, and this White Russian concoction will have you feeling all the warm, Thanksgiving-y vibes.

Brit + Co

S'moretini

Whether it's too cold to sit outside and snack on some s'mores, or you don't have a fire pit to roast marshmallows (although Gilmore Girlsdid show us how to use our stovetops...), this Thanksgiving cocktail is a great alternative to the sticky dessert. The chocolate andgraham cracker coating on the rim is just the cherry on top!

Brit + Co

Rum Toddy

This cocktail recipe is great because there's a good chance you already have the majority of the ingredients in your kitchen! Just put everything you need in a thermos, stir it up, and you're good to go. Not only will toddies keep you warm on cold days, but they're good for sore throats and fighting the chills if you're feeling a lil' under the weather.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Pear Ginger Fizz

Swap your cranberry sauce for a cranberry cocktail complete with ginger beer, pears, and limes. Make sure you keep some whole cranberries and rosemary sprigs for the finishing touch. Even if you've never made cocktails before, this drink is so easy that anyone can make it!

Brit + Co

Clementine Whiskey Smash

Sweet clementine juice and rich whiskey are the perfect match in this fun Thanksgiving drink, plus you can adjust the amount of whiskey that goes in depending on how strong you'd like the drink. Go easy for a fresh taste or add a bit more if you want something warmer.

Brit + Co

Wild Turkey Cocktails

Now, we know what you're thinking: "there is no way I'm drinking a cocktail that has turkey in it." But you don't have to worry because the 'wild turkey' in this recipe actually comes from Wild Turkey American Honey! Make one for an afternoon apéritif or an evening drink once the kids have gone to bed. Now the only question is, who let the (wild) turkeys out?!

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

We're suckers for all things pumpkin spice, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in a little PSL-inspired boozy bevvy. This Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate is super easy to make — and even easier to devour.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Is The New Black Cocktail

From cranberry sauce to cranberry garlands, this red berry is definitely a holiday season staple – and now you can add it to yourbar cart! Think of this drink as an upgraded vodka cranberry, with a more sophisticated look. If you're not able to get black vodka, just sub black food coloring to achieve the same finished product.

Brit + Co

Chai Hot Toddy

If you're not a huge pumpkin person, then you have to try this spiced, creamy Thanksgiving cocktail while you wait for eggnog season. Your classic chai gets a makeover with some spiced rum and cinnamon-infused milk (YUM!) that give it a whole new holiday edge. You can also experiment with different spices and adding in a shot of espresso to change things up.

Brit + Co

Apple Cide-car Cocktail

As far as we're concerned, apple cider season should last all winter long. This easy cocktail only has four ingredients (apple cider, brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice) which means there's no excuse to not have this on your Thanksgiving menu! Need a simple alternative for the under-21 crew? Nix the alcohol, but keep the glasses for an upscale apple cider mocktail.

Brit + Co

Convergent Opera Cake Cocktail

This cold brew concoction is perfect for getting you buzzed in more than one way. It's the perfect after-dinner dose of caffeine you need to avoid a food coma, but it'll also give you all the Thanksgiving feels.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Zinger Jam Jar Cocktail

We love jam and we love cocktails, so why not put them together? This cranberry zinger (which is basically the queen of mixed Thanksgiving cocktails) will certainly make you feel all kinds of bubbly. All you gotta do is pour your favorite gin and cranberry juice over ice, and then top with a spoonful of your go-to jam. Top it off with ginger ale, and you're done!

Brit + Co

Pomegranate Ginger Beer Cocktail

Ginger has just the right amount of warmth to keep you toasty during holiday gatherings. This delicious ginger beer concoction will be a total crowd pleaser at all your Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving gatherings.

Wholefully

Two Ingredient Apple Cider Mimosas

If mimosas (especially apple cider mimosas) don't scream fall brunch, we don't know what does. Since it's only two ingredients, you don't have to worry about trying to put together a complex Thanksgiving cocktail recipe while also preparing dinner. Sounds like a win-win.

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Hot Cider

Add 1 gallon apple cider, 1 tbsp whole allspice, 1 tbsp whole cloves, 1 sliced orange, 1-inch sliced fresh ginger, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 4 star anise to a pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes before adding 1.5 cups of Dos Hombres Mezcal to spike the sip!

Home & Plate

Salted Caramel Apple Martini

Martinis make us feel sophisticated and mysterious, but there's one thing that's no mystery: cocktail hour will never be the same after you serve this sweet, tart drink to your family and friends. All you *really* need is a little caramel vodka and apple cider, and you're good to go. Don't forget to chill your martini glasses beforehand to keep things cool.

JoLynn Shane

Apple Cider Mojito Recipe

Mojitos might usually be a summer drink for you, but the addition of apple cider makes this one of the best Thanksgiving cocktails you could sip on. The cinnamon simple syrup in this recipe is totally worth the extra prep time. This drink is also loaded with fresh mint and cinnamon sticks for a fall flavor combo you can't miss.

Joyful Healthy Eats

Apple Cider Moscow Mule

Everyone knows that what makes a Moscow mule a true mule is the ginger beer. Well, with this easy Thanksgiving cocktail, what makes it is the hard apple cider instead of the regular kind.

Inspired by Charm

Apple Pie Sangria

Apple desserts are a must-have during the holiday season, and this apple pie-inspired sangria might just become our top pick. This is the *perfect* Thanksgiving cocktail to put out in a big pitcher and sip on during dinner, while watching the football game, or even when you're stuck cleaning up dishes.

Baked by Rachel

Apple Cider Whiskey Smash

This is an ahh-mazing seasonal twist on a traditional whiskey drink. With just three quick ingredients (whiskey, lemon juice, and apple cider) you can even make a big batch of this Thanksgiving-y drink *before* the holiday whirlwind begins.

Cookie + Kate

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

We consider November 1 to be the official start of maple season. Even if whiskey isn't your thing, it might be after sampling this cup of Thanksgiving goodness. A little maple syrup goes a long way when you're working with this recipe!

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Naughty Toddy

Mix together 1 oz Dos Hombres Mezcal, .5 oz fresh lemon juice, .25 oz honey, 1 oz whiskey, and 2 oz natural apple juice together before heating it up on the stove to make this Thanksgiving cocktail. Garnsih with a lemon wheel, and prepare to be warm AF.

Gimme Some Oven

Cranberry Margaritas

Cranberries might be reminiscent of Christmas, but cranberry sauce is basically a Thanksgiving delicacy… which is why we had to give this seasonal margarita our stamp of approval. The squeeze of lime and the salted rim puts this cocktail over the (very delicious) edge, and if you want to get extra fancy with it, there's also a recipe to make your own homemade cranberry juice.

Holly & Flora

Bourbon + Spiced Pear Cocktail

With herbs like sage and thyme topped off with allspice and cinnamon, we're totally in love with this unique Thanksgiving cocktail. Not only does the ginger liqueur give this drink a little kick, but including agave means that it's totally sugar-free.

Baker by Nature

Cranberry + Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

If you're really craving some sweetness, this is the exact drink you should go for. It calls for two cups of cranberries on top of two cups of sugar to yield four cocktails. It's safe to say you'll be perked up after just a few sips.

The Sweetest Occasion

Salted Caramel White Russian

This cocktail is creamy, sweet, and totally dessert-like, which makes it a great addition to post-dinner conversation. You could literally forget the pies and cobblers (but what's Thanksgiving without some pie?) and just drink this instead. Don't worry if you're dairy-free – just swap the caramel sauce for a coconut-based caramel instead.

Slow Cooker Spiced Wine

Okayyy – this warm drink gives us all the fall feels. Red wine and brandy warmed in a crockpot with spices and orange sounds like total heaven to us. Not to mention that you can leave this to simmer throughout the day, so your guests can help themselves and you don't have to worry about it! (viaWell Plated)

Domesticate Me

Spiced Cider Margaritas

For many, the lime margarita is a staple on Taco Tuesday, but maybe it's time to mix it up? We think YES. Cozy up by the fire with a glass of this spiced cider that's spiked with tequila and garnished with cinnamon sticks and apples. That — and the cinnamon sugar rim — sounds right up our alley.

Want more mouthwatering holiday recipes and Thanksgiving cocktails? Follow us on Pinterest or join our newsletter for more inspiration!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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