Got Writer’s Block? These Cards Can Help

Nora Landis-Shack
Dec 01, 2014

Writing is no easy task. And as glorious as it is to be creative for a living, sometimes those juicy ideas just hit a roadblock. Whether you’re writing a journalistic article or a creative story, figuring out the next words to put down on the page, let alone the next ideas or characters to create, can be a major hurdle for aspiring writers. Enter, the Emergency Pack.

The screenwriter of brilliant stories like Big Fish pulled together professional writers and creative minds, all of whom have struggled with idea generation in the past, and asked them to share their tips and tricks for coming up with material. Thus, the Emergency Pack was born.

Each pack contains 26 illustrated cards, each featuring a different idea to help you get unstuck. On the back of each card, you’ll find more tips related to the card’s topic on ideas or directions you can try out. And in order to make sure everyone benefits from this awesome idea, the founders will donate one pack to a learning program or school for each deck they sell.

The implications of this sweet new product for writers and students alike is pretty fantastic. And while the cards are intended specifically for fiction writers, we can definitely see them, or other iterations of them, being extremely useful for journalists as well. Finally, a way for us to come up with ideas on the fly, without diving into the black hole of the Internet to find a juicy story? We are so, so in.

What do you think of these cards? Would you use them to help you write? Tell us in the comments below!

How To Be Good At Being Bad At New Hobbies

When I moved to Colorado, I witnessed every single stereotype about the state I’d only heard about unfold before my very eyes. Brew-obsessed, mustache-claden bros. The outdoorsy girlies that swear their closet is only filled with Patagonia. People that legitimately run up mountains. Yes, they’re all real. Before relocating, I never would have imagined that I’d become a stereotype. But here I am, learning how to rock climb.

How To Be Good At Being Bad

Climbing entered my life when I gifted my boyfriend a climbing class for Valentine’s Day. He’d wanted to try climbing for months, so I figured I’d encourage him to explore it and ventured out to even try a class for myself, too. Months later, I’m suddenly a regular climber. The intro class definitely taught me a lot to actually get started, but there was one thing I had to discover on my own: how to be good at being bad.

It's Okay to Be Scared of New Things

Growing up, messing up and getting things wrong frustrated me. I’m not talking about your regular huff-and-puff frustration — I’m talking about some seriously world-ending, hyper-critical bouts of defeat and honestly… straight up anger. I was angry that I didn't live up to the flawless standards that everyone else seemed to be. I never wanted to ask questions in school because I was afraid I’d be wrong. I lived in my comfort zone for a long time, just to avoid any negative feelings. Despite the abundance of advice and encouragement I received (thanks mom and dad), my fear of failure was huge.

I tackled that fear bit by bit throughout college. I met challenges I’d never faced alone before, coming with my fair share of failures and flops. As I transformed and uncovered more of my identity, I finally gave myself permission to try new things, like group exercise classes and concert photography. The more comfortable I got with failure, the less consequential it was if I messed up. This was a big win, but the importance of being bad at something didn’t fully click until I started climbing.

How I Actually Learned To Embrace Failure

The very first thing the instructor taught us was how to fall correctly. I’m supposed to reach new heights, but they literally taught us how to fail first. The metaphor writes itself. The second thing we learned was that building strength for climbing takes time. Being an (admittedly very) impatient person that wants perfection on the first go-around, I wasn’t exactly delighted to hear that. Before I even touched the climbing wall, I was in my head. With worries and insecurities racing through my mind, I remembered little Meredith who robbed herself of the joys doing that something new could bring her. So I went for the route. Step by step, and reach by reach, I clumsily made it to the top. It felt like I could do anything!

Since then, I embody that fearless spirit each time I return to the gym. Success on a wall isn’t always guaranteed, but dedicating more energy to my victories rather than my failures (or potential for failure) is something I’m working on – and that’s worth celebrating.

Being good at being bad at climbing means knowing that I’m not an expert yet, because I’m still a beginner. It means embracing the fact that failure is a part of the gig. It means my attitude can serve me, instead of tearing me down. It means not taking myself so seriously, because that can take the fun out of it. Being good at being bad means falling while climbing is fun, and second (and third and fourth and fifth) tries are just as valid as the first one.

Facing Your Fears Head-On

From my experience, fear can be isolating and soul-crushing. You’ll never fully conquer your fears, so using them as a catalyst for new experiences is the best thing you can do in this life. You can be good at being bad in all areas of your life – it helps you gain perspective on relationships, work, and new hobbies. Breaking out of your comfort zone is more fulfilling than staying in it, even if you take small steps. Eventually, you’ll reach new heights.

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Image via Meredith Holser.

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A New Glen Powell Erotic Thriller Is Coming & PLEASE Take All My Money

Glen Powell is the gift that keeps on giving, TBH. From his viral Anyone But Youpress tour to his iconic Twisterscowboy-in-the-rain scene, it's Glen Powell's world and we're all just living in it. Thankfully, the Glen-iverse is expanding with a new movie, and it's set to be spicier than ever. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Homewrecker, the upcoming erotic thriller, just officially landed at a production company, finally making Glen's new movie a reality. Wanna know more? Let's get into it!

Here's everything to know about Glen Powell's upcoming erotic thriller, Homewrecker!

Not too much is known about Homewrecker — other than that it's an erotic thriller. The film is based off of an unpublished story by Neil M. Paik (Reawakening, Rainbowfish) that's only three chapters long.
The Hollywood Reporterbroke the news that Legendary won the bidding war for Homewrecker this week. According to the outlet, there was "a seven-figure outright purchase" for the film rights and "a seven-figure arrangement" to have Paik write the screenplay.
With that deal in place, Glen Powell is set to star and produce this project, with Paik writing the script. So far, everything else is very under wraps, but here's what I do know:
  • Glen Powell is one of the most charming men in Hollywood, so I know he's gonna bring that charm to new heights in this film — even if they're slightly sinister heights!
  • Glen Powell in the rain in Twisters (yes, it's the second time I'm brining this up — it's fine) was so hot, and he wasn't even doing anything actually hot...just imagine the erotic thriller possibilities here!
  • IMAGINE YET ANOTHER GLEN POWELL PRESS TOUR?
Basically, all this goes to say, the girlies stay winning when it comes to Glen Powell. 🙌 Can't wait for more updates on this very exciting project!

Looking for more celebrity and movie news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

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Our Newest Podcast Will Help You Spot Trends Before They Happen

When we ended the last season of Teach Me Something New, I told you we would take a short break. Well…we’re back — but with a twist! When I started Teach Me Something New, it was with the mission to become the world’s greatest generalist. I had an incredible time learning from so many brilliant and amazing guests like Elaine Welteroth, Zooey Deschanel, Bill Nye, and countless others.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned as an entrepreneur, it’s that the best insights start with listening. Every time I started a company — whether it was Brit + Co, Selfmade, BFF, or even my work in venture capital with Offline Ventures — I was inspired by a deep curiosity and desire to solve a problem that wasn’t fully being satisfied.

I read your comments, listened to your feedback, and heard that you didn’t just want to learn about topics you enjoyed. You wanted to create more opportunities in your life without feeling overwhelmed. You loved the interviews with CEOs, actors, scientists, and other fascinating people. But, you also needed help figuring out where to invest your time and energy.

Many of you had a similar question: how do I have more success and upgrade my life without sacrificing everything? That’s why I decided to create a new podcast called First In Line.

I designed this show based on your requests and my lessons from Teach Me Something New. You wanted the same great guests but more clarity, guidance, opportunity, empowerment, and access to the coolest trends and the biggest opportunities. Whether you want to know how to live longer, figure out if you should invest in crypto, or want to understand how and when to take a big risk…we’re going to cover it all.

And to celebrate this exciting launch, we're giving early listeners a chance to win an incredible First In Line prize package and getaway valued at $3,000! The giveaway features prizes from upcoming guests and partners and you can enter by subscribing to this show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and then submitting your email here.

The First In Line Giveaway Prize Includes:

  • A luxury two-night stay at my Orofino lodge in Montana ($1,625 Value)
  • 6 months of gold membership to our entrepreneurship program, Selfmade ($834 Value)
  • Gwyneth’s Paltrow’s “The Kit” Morning Routine from Goop ($207 Value)
  • A Tim Ferriss Book Bundle ($50 Value)
  • Ultimate LMNT hydration package ($250 Value)
  • Complete Athletic Greens starter package ($200 Value)

I can’t wait to share these episodes and the conversations that are usually limited to a select few and make them accessible to everyone. And I hope that you'll join me because you inspired this new journey! New episodes will drop on Thursdays, so stay tuned for our first episode in September — and be sure to subscribe to First In Line wherever you get your podcasts!

Produced in collaboration with Pen Name.

TERMS: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. ELIGIBILITY: Must be eighteen (18) or older to win. This Giveaway is open only to individuals who are permanent legal residents of the 47 United States of America (excluding residents of Alaska, Hawaii, Rhode Island, overseas military installations, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, and other U.S. Territories). WINNER NOTIFICATION: Winner be will be chosen at random on 9/30/2022. Winners will be notified via email. CONDITIONS: Prizes are non-transferable. No cash redemption or substitution will be allowed. By entering the sweepstakes, I agree to sign up to receive newsletters and special offers from Brit + Co and First In Line.

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See All The Pics From Taylor Swift's "Surprise" Eras Tour Party From Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift's birthday (which any Swiftie will tell you is December 13, 1989) is always a reason to celebrate. But this year, considering her birthday came five days after wrapping the Eras Tour on December 8, Taylor's BF Travis Kelce took things to the next level by giving the popstar an Eras Tour-themed party! And according to Jo-Jo Edwards-Hilaire, it was a total surprise. Not only did the guest list include some of your favorite celebs, but they all dressed up asTaylor, wearing outfits inspired by each Era in the concert. There's only one thing to say: Long live all the memories we made!

Check out all the pictures from Taylor Swift's surprise 35th birthday party, thrown by Travis Kelce.

Patrick & Brittany Mahomes celebrated Taylor Swift (and the Eras Tour) with themed outfits.

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Patrick and Brittany Mahomes showed up to Taylor's birthday wearing two of the best outfits of the night (which you can see on Brittany's Instagram): Britt was dressed as Fearless-era Taylor with a silver dress, jacket, and long curls, while Patrick was dressed in a suit just like Travis wore when he showed up onstage during "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart" in June 2024!

"My people🫶🏼," Brittany captioned the post, adding the heart hands Taylor has become known for. In addition to Britt's on-theme outfit, Taylor wore a black dress with red lipstick, Lyndsay Bell donned a Lover-approved pink sparkly outfit, and Ashley Avignone added some Reputation into the mix by wearing a plush snake around her neck, Voldemort style.

Ross Travis also posted photos from the event (including his incredible pink suit embroidered with ballerinas, heart sunglasses, and feather boa), showing off an epic dance floor. I want to belt "You Belong With Me" with Taylor and Travis!

But an epic party wasn't the only way Taylor Swift spent her 35th birthday.

And Taylor Swift's surprise birthday party wasn't the only event on her calendar last week. On December 12, the singer spent time with patients at the Children's Mercy Kansas City Hospital, petting dogs, making TikToks, and signing Eras Tour books. It was such a sweet and memorable way to kick off her birthday!

One of my favorite things about this visit is that not only is Taylor writing each kid a personalized message on their Eras Tour book, but she gets down to their eye level and stops writing to look at them when they're talking. Just like her lyrics make us feel seen when we hear them, Taylor goes out of her way to make every single kid feel known and important, and it just makes us love her even more.

When one child said, "I like Travis now," Taylor immediately replies with, "Yes, me too. That's an absolute yes on that one." We'd have to agree, Taylor ;).

While you relisten to The Tortured Poets Department, check out why This Taylor Swift Karma Release Date Theory Is Too Good Not To Believe. And sign up for our weekend newsletter for even more pop culture news!

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41 Innovative Products That Combat Seasonal Depression

Struggling with the winter blues? From the short days to the dark nights and frosty temperatures, it's not surprising that the season can have an impact on our mood. But these 41 innovative products are designed to offer a much-needed boost. From light therapy lamps and energising supplements to cozy weighted blankets and calming gadgets, these items provide practical solutions for enhancing your mental well-being and creating a brighter, more uplifting atmosphere at home.

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

These Light Therapy Glasses Can Offer Relief

Amazon

These glasses are lightweight and comfortable for long wear, plus they don't hinder your sight. The blue-enriched white is available in three intensity settings, and can not only help with winter blues but also jet lag.

See it on Amazon

These Gummy Worms Are Packed With Vitamin D

Amazon

A lack of sunlight can affect our vitamin D intake, but these gummy worms are designed to replenish the levels and naturally lift our spirits. They also contain saffron, which has been found to have natural mood-boosting benefits, and reviews say they taste delicious.

See it on Amazon

Wake Peacefully With the Sunrise Alarm Clock

Amazon

The Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock is designed to mimic a sunrise and naturally rouse you from a deep sleep. Customers say it helps them to feel alert in the mornings rather than groggy. Plus, it has a wind-down mode and soothing sounds for bedtime.

See it on Amazon

These Gummies Can Reduce Your Stress

Amazon

These gummies are made with lion's mane mushrooms, which researchers believe can reduce stress, provide a burst of energy and even help to regulate mood. It's safe for kids to use too, and reviews say you can see results within days.

See it on Amazon

This Therapy Lamp Is Great for on the Go

Amazon

This lamp has four timer settings and three intensity levels, allowing you to personalize the experience to suit your needs. The standing bracket and a 90-degree rotation allow you to adjust the angle with ease, and the sleek design means it can fit into your purse.

See it on Amazon

Practice Mindfulness With a Breathing Buddha

Amazon

One way to boost your mood is to pause and meditate. If you're a newbie, this breathing buddha works like a visual tool to count your breathing and help you block out distractions.

See it on Amazon

This Weighted Blanket Feels Like Pure Luxury

Amazon

Weighted blankets can help to put your nervous system into “rest” mode and promote better sleep. This velvet design feels so soft and is crafted from premium velvet. It's perfect for keeping warm on cold nights but is also breathable for the summer.

See it on Amazon

This Blanket Can Keep You Toasty

Amazon

Not only is this blanket weighted, but it has a heat function to keep you warm on those frosty winter nights. There are ten adjustable heat settings to help you find your optimal temperature, and customers say it achieves their best sleep ever.

See it on Amazon

This Sleep Mask Is Made for Deep Sleep

Amazon

Struggling to adjust to the short days? This sleep mask has layered padding that gently cushions your face, plus it blocks out any light. The silky fabric makes it easy to sleep in, and it also keeps your skin and hair protected.

See it on Amazon

This Mask Is Like a Weighted Blanket for Your Face

Amazon

This weighted face mask applies gentle pressure and can help to calm an over active mind. It's ideal for when you're struggling to switch off and can be used for both side and back sleepers.

See it on Amazon

This Wearable Blanket Is Made With Coziness in Mind

Amazon

The winter has its challenges but the long nights can also provide the perfect excuse to unwind and relax. This blanket with sleeves offers hands-free comfort, plus there are pockets for your phone or snacks. It comes in a choice of colors and patterns, so you can pick one to suit your style.

See it on Amazon

Drift Off to Soothing Sounds With This White Noise Machine

Amazon

White noise can be a powerful tool for an anxious mind and help to improve focus and switch off. This sound machine has 31 soothing sounds, including bird song, gentle rain and the crackle of a camp fire. The sleek design also makes it a stylish choice for your nightstand.

See it on Amazon

This Indoor Water Feature Feels so Calming

Amazon

The sound of water can be so soothing, and this indoor piece is perfect if you're lacking in outdoor space. The three tiers create a gentle flow, and customers say it's great value for money.

See it on Amazon

This Spray Is for Your Pillow

Amazon

This spray has been proven to help you fall asleep faster, using the calming power of lavender, chamomile and vetivert. It's also cruelty-free and contains no sulphates, petrolatum, phthalates or synthetic colours. Simply spray onto your bed linen and enjoy the indulgent scent.

See it on Amazon

This Sleep Pillow Has Slots for Your Arms

Amazon

This orthopedic pillow is designed to soothe aching necks and muscles, and promote better sleep and energy levels. It creates the perfect lift, and there are arm holes for unbeatable comfort. Plus, the gel-infused memory foam keeps you cool.

See it on Amazon

This Therapy Lamp Is Great for the Desk

Amazon

Struggling with your energy levels when you work from home? This lamp is the perfect size for a home desk, and it's dimmable with three color settings. One customer claimed the results of this lamp were 'life-changing' after battling seasonal depression.

See it on Amazon

This Bulb Feels Like the Sun

Amazon

This two-pack of Norb Everyday Sun Light Bulbs are designed to create the feeling of natural light in your home without harmful UV rays. The LED design is also energy efficient, plus customers say they're a breeze to install.

See it on Amazon

Ease Stress With This Roll On

Amazon

The soothing essential oils of this roll on can provide an instant feeling of calm, and the compact size makes it perfect when you're on the go. Use as part of your bedtime ritual or whenever you're struggling with stress.

See it on Amazon

Melatonin Gummies Can Help Sleep Issues

Amazon

If the short days have disrupted your sleep pattern, melatonin supplements can help to achieve better slumber. These gummies are chewable, and free from synthetic flavors or colors.

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These Capsules Work to Release Melatonin Throughout the Night

Amazon

The Ritual Sleep Melatonin capsules use BioSeries technology to release melatonin steadily throughout the night and ensure a better quality of sleep. They've been clinically shown to achieve deeper sleep, with one review hailing them a total 'game changer'.

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The Sleep Pod Is a Cocoon of Comfort

Amazon

This innovative sleep blanket feels like a hug. It keeps you warm and cozy, while replicating the pressure of deep touch. Plus, there is the option to let your feet breathe if you need it.

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This Best Selling Supplement Helps Find Your Calm

Amazon

These Anxie-T supplements are made from all-natural ingredients, including the Ashwagandha plant which is commonly used to combat stress. You can take three in the morning to induce a natural feeling of calm and one at night for better sleep.

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This Herb Tea Has no Caffeine

Amazon

Enjoy the soothing and comforting benefits of tea without the caffeine. The Republic of Tea is great tasting and the perfect addition to your night time routine. Reviews say you will feel instantly sleepy.

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This Calming Cream Is Infused With Lavender Oil

Amazon

This cream works to support natural sleep and offer some calming relief from anxiety or nerves. It's free from harsh chemicals and suitable for sensitive skin types too.

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This Lavender Latte Is Great for a Subtle Boost

Amazon

If you're trying to cut down on coffee, this latte powder is made with lavender, blue spirulina and coconut sugar. It's got a deliciously smooth taste, plus the bold pop of color can add some joy to your morning beverage.

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This Sleep Instrument Uses Vibration to Relieve Pressure

Amazon

Using low-frequency electrical pulses to calm your body, this sleep instrument can achieve a noticeable reduction in anxiety. The ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip, and it's suitable for all ages.

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These Sheet Masks Nourish and Soothe

Amazon

Sometimes the best way to combat the winter blues is with some self-care. And these soothing sheet masks are packed with natural goodness to leave your skin glowing. The texture isn't sticky, and the formula uses three types of hyaluronic acid to tackle dry winter complexions.

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Plant Seeds With This Bonsai Tree Kit

Amazon

Plants are proven to have calming powers, and this bonsai tree kit is a great way to feel at one with nature. It contains four variations of seeds, and the joy of seeing fresh life grow can be an uplifting experience.

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This Breathing Bear Is Perfect for Kids

Amazon

If you want to switch off with your kids, this breathing bear can provide the most adorable meditation pal. It works to guide you through the famous 4-7-8 breathing technique, and can also work as a white noise machine and night light.

See it on Amazon

Make Your Home Feel Like a Spa With This Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon

This diffuser not only releases a calming mist, but it can also put on a light show for that feeling of a luxury spa experience in the comfort of your own home. You can enjoy the soothing mist for up to six hours, and the ultra quiet fan makes it discreet for home working.

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Drown Out Distraction With These Noise Cancelling Headphones

Amazon

These Bose QuietComfort Headphones offer two innovative modes of audio. The quiet mode drowns out background noise for an immersive experience, while the aware mode allows you to be mindful of your surroundings. The ear cups provide a cushion of comfort, and just 15 minutes of charge provides over two hours of playtime.

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This Candle Is Indulgent Without Being Overpowering

Amazon

Made from aromatherapy natural oils, this candle from Slow North is also free of any petroleum byproducts, as well as synthetic chemical fragrances. Breathe in the calming botanical ingredients, and enjoy 30 hours of burn time.

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This Zen Garden Restores Some Inner Peace

Amazon

This zen sand garden can create hundreds of patterns, and you can adjust the colors and speeds. Sync to your phone to control with the app and create custom playlists to suit your mood.

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This Yoga Mat Is Great for Newbies

Amazon

If you want to enjoy the calming benefits of yoga but don't know where to start, this yoga mat is designed with beginners in mind. It has the poses printed on, so you always have a visual reference for ease. Plus, the thick material provides support and comfort.

See it on Amazon

Try Epsom Salts For a Stress Free Soak

Amazon

When in water, Epsom salts break down into magnesium and sulphate and help to soothe muscles and relieve pain. This packet from Amazon is such a steal for the price and has thousands of glowing reviews.

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These Epsom Salts Are All Natural and Organic

Amazon

Make your bath feel a little more boujee with these Epsom salts from LOVERY. They're enriched with essential oils and herbs for a nourishing boost to the skin, and the packaging has such an opulent appeal.

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This Migraine Cap Targets Pain

Amazon

One of the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder is headaches, but this cap provides instant relief. The gel formula creates a cooling sensation that helps to soothe the pain, plus you can wear over your eyes to reduce puffiness.

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Let Cats be the Cure With This Hoodie

Amazon

Being around cats can have a calming impact on our mental health, and this hoodie lets you keep your feline friend close. The fleece pouch envelopes them in comfort, while the pom poms provide some stimulation.

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Get Creative With This Coloring Book

Amazon

Coloring can bring us such nostalgic joy, and is also a soothing stress reliever. This book is designed for all ages, and contains 52 large pages just waiting to be filled in.

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Start Your Morning With Golden Milk

Amazon

Golden milk, or haldi doodh, has been a part of Indian culture for centuries and is a warming beverage used to ward off ailments like the common cold. This superfood blend from Sunfood contains a cocktail of goodness, including anti inflammatory turmeric and energy boosting maca.

See it on Amazon

Relieve Facial Tension With Ice Rollers

Amazon

Facial tension can lead to painful migraines, but these ice rollers are the perfect remedy. They can also tackle morning puffiness, contour the face and help you feel more alert for the day. A necessity on those cold, dark mornings.

See it on Amazon