A Simple Practice for Physical Self-Care

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mondays-with-minaa-self-care-tips
Design by Alexis Lira

Hi Greatist readers,

Happy Monday! It’s Minaa B., and I’m back to check in with you as we explore the topic of self-care. Last week was all about emotional self-care. How did you feel doing the daily emotional check-in with yourself? I encourage you to continue to commit to this practice.

This week is all about physical self-care, because our bodies need love and healing too!

Dimension #2: Physical self-care

One of the greatest analogies I ever heard about the mind-body-spirit connection is learning to look at the body and recognize that if you break your wrist, it affects the way your arm functions. In the same way, if you broke your foot, it would affect the way your leg functions. This is because the body is one, and if one part is hurting, the other part will ache.

So, what is your body telling you and how are you tending to its needs?

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

  • Where do I feel the most tension in my body?
  • What part of my body do I find aches the most?
  • When I’m feeling heavy emotions, how does my body respond to those feelings?

And for the physical component this week, I’m going to ask you to commit to this one simple practice (if you are able to): Take a deep breath and stretch.

Consider this your weekly motivation as well as your weekly guide for sustaining your health, and then tune in next Monday as I talk about intellectual and spiritual self-care!

With love,
Minaa B.



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Put Your Freshest Face Forward: 9 Best Paraben-Free Makeup Brands of 2020

Once upon a time, paraben-free makeup was like a needle in a haystack.

But an explosion of new beauty brands in the last decade has transformed makeup shopping from a hunt for the least orange foundation to a stroll through aisles of natural beauty products, hypoallergenic mascaras, and organic lippies.

In response to consumer demand, brands are stepping up with new arrays of paraben-free products.

paraben free makeup

These are a few of our favorite brands…

  1. Burt’s Bees
  2. Juice Beauty
  3. 100% Pure
  4. Ilia Beauty
  5. RMS Beauty
  6. Alima Pure
  7. Kosas
  8. Tower 28 Beauty
  9. PYT Beauty

So what’s the deal with parabens?

Parabens are a type of chemical preservative. They’re typically used in beauty and personal care products, but you’ll find them in some foods and drugs too.

Basically, parabens stave off bacteria and mold while your product sits on the store shelf or your bathroom counter. “Clean” beauty brands swap out parabens for gentler preservatives like caprylyl glycol and rosemary extract. The trade-off is a shorter shelf life.

There are two reasons some peeps are wary of parabens.

  1. Some parabens mimic estrogen, disrupting your hormone balance — a red flag for breast cancer. But researchers say most cosmetics don’t include those specific parabens.
  2. Parabens can build up and eventually seep into your skin layers. Some folks believe this makes them toxic, but there’s no evidence to support that assumption.

Common parabens in cosmetics

Paraben-free picks: how we chose

We stuck to brands with products that are free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. And that goes for *all* their products, not just our top picks!

And we only included products with a 4-star rating (or higher) and at least 100 reviews on Sephora, Credo Beauty, or the brand’s website.

What are sulfates and phthalates?

Phthalates. These chemicals help dissolve and stabilize fragrances. Some people are concerned about how phthalates could be absorbed into the body, but there’s no consensus on what harm that would cause.

Sulfates. Sulfates are a type of salt that helps products (like shampoo) foam up and lather. Like salt, sulfates could irritate or dry out your skin, but research shows there’s no long-term harm caused.

9 Best paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free makeup brands of 2020

Pricing guide

$ = under $10
$$ = $10–$30
$$$ = over $30

1. Burt’s Bees

burt's bees lipgloss

Burt’s Bees is the OG clean beauty brand. They got famous for their beeswax lip and body products, but now they’ve expanded into all arenas of the cosmetics game. Bonus: They’re cruelty-free and use recyclable packaging.

Paraben alternative: citric acid

Best product: Lip Gloss with Avocado Oil

Price: $

Buy Burt’s Bees online.

2. Juice Beauty

stem cellular cc cream

Juice appeals to organic grocery diehards and skin care enthusiasts alike!

They work directly with organic farmers to source ingredients like grape, apple, and aloe leaf juice. Their makeup packs in skin care benefits for twice the glow-power.

Paraben alternatives: panethyl alcohol, ethylhexylglycerin, zinc oxide

Best product: Stem Cellular CC Cream

Price: $$$

Buy Juice Beauty products online.

3. 100% Pure

100% pure fruit pigmented mascara

100% Pure has a delicious take on beauty. They use organic ingredients, never test on animals, and utilize fruits and veggies to pigment their products.

Their website is refreshingly transparent. If you’re ever unsure about an ingredient, click over to the glossary for all the deets.

Paraben alternatives: honey beeswax and rosemary extract

Best product: Fruit-Pigmented Ultra-Lengthening Mascara

Price: $$

Shop 100% Pure here.

4. Ilia Beauty

ilia super serum skin tint

Ilia’s sleek, monochromatic aesthetic speaks to your inner cool-girl: matte, neutral packaging with sans-serif fonts will decorate your vanity while glowy balms decorate your face.

Gluten-sensitive people and those with celiac disease, rejoice! These products are also gluten-free.

Paraben alternatives: caprylyl glycol, tetrasodium glutamate, sodium diacetate

Best product: Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Price: $$$

Buy Ilia Beauty online.

5. RMS Beauty

rms beauty uncover up

Craving a luxurious, department-store-feel? RMS Beauty’s recyclable, reusable packaging has a luxe weigh. Its creamy, multiuse products are silky and blendable.

Paraben alternatives: Rosemary extract

Best product: “Un” Cover Up Cream Concealer

Price: $$$

Buy RMS Beauty online.

6. Alima Pure

alima pure satin matte foundation

Alima Pure lavishes good things your skin *and* the planet. They’ve been carbon neutral for over a decade. Many of their products come in refillable packaging to minimize waste.

Clean beauty and inclusive shade ranges don’t always go hand in hand, so we love that their Satin Matte Foundation comes in 45 evenly distributed shades.

Paraben alternatives: zinc oxide

Best product: Satin Matte Foundation

Price: $$

Shop Alima Pure online.

7. Kosas

kosas color light pressed powder blush

Kosas packs a vibrant punch in the muted world of natural beauty products. Sure, the brand is still easy-breezy and sleek, but with a little oomph. Think ultra-juicy lipgloss, one-and-done sparkly eyeshadow, and glowing cheeks.

Paraben alternatives: rosemary extract

Best product: Color and Light: Pressed Powder Blush and Highlight Duo

Price: $$$

Buy Kosas products online.

8. Tower 28 Beauty

tower beauty bronzino illuminating bronzer

It’s rare for a “clean” brand to feel as fabulously fun as Tower 28. Clear packaging, bright lettering, and shimmering, illuminating products give this brand a never-ending summer vibe.

Paraben alternatives: caprylyl glycol and ethylhexylglycerin

Best product: Bronzino Illuminating Bronzer

Price: $$

Shop Tower 28 Beauty online.

9. PYT Beauty

pyt beauty day to night cool eyeshadow palette

PYT Beauty’s formulations come in enough products to replace your old primers and makeup.

PYT covers your “day at the office” basics + glimmer and gleam for a night out (or, y’know, another Zoom happy hour).

Paraben alternative: phenoxyethanol

Best product: Day-to-Night Cool Eyeshadow Palette

Price: $$

Buy PYT Beauty online.



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Introducing the Relationship Escalator: What Is It and How to Get Off It

relationship-escalator
Design by Wenzdai Figueroa

Ever wonder why we’re supposed to move and act in certain ways? Why do we have so many traditions and rituals that determine rite of passage in life? Like… why does your mom always ask about grandkids? Or why does your aunt really need to know when you and your long-term partner are getting married? And why are couples “supposed” to live together?

After all, why isn’t it normal to pull a Frida and Diego and live separately, connected by a bridge? Sounds like less folks would be breaking up over dirty dishes.

Things are the way they are because society and culture dictate that they are so. As rising generations begin to unravel the harmful social norms thrust upon us, and subsequently be more accepting of “alternative” lifestyles, it’s time to look at what we expect out of our most intimate relationships.

Ever since I began my journey into ethical non-monogamy, the harm of these societal norms have become so obvious to me. Folks always ask me how I’d expect to raise children, or tell me that I’ll finally break and leave my married boyfriend because I cannot become his wife. It’s frustrating… because I’ve truly never been happier. I am surrounded by love and more security than I’ve ever known.

Yet, my lifestyle threatens the status quo, and thus, it’s subject to scrutiny. That’s because the relationship escalator is such a strong force in so many cultures. 

Maybe more of us should rethink what we’re being told we should do with our lives, and whether it’s actually what we want. Are we passively letting society tell us how our closest relationships should unfold? Or should we design our relationships of our own accord?

What is the relationship escalator?

The relationship escalator is a term coined by Amy Gahran. It refers to the collection of expected behaviors and choices and that must be followed in order for a relationship to be seen as legitimate. Most of us don’t realize this is a script set out for us— we just feel shame or failure when we cannot meet these goals as expected.

The relationship escalator expects “valid” relationships to follow this order:

  1. dating
  2. becoming sexually and emotionally monogamous
  3. defining the relationship
  4. moving in together 
  5. getting married 
  6. combining income/purchasing property
  7. having children
  8. dying together holding hands in rocking chairs on the porch

Okay. Maybe that last one isn’t ACTUALLY on the list but you get the idea!

The relationship escalator isn’t inherently bad

There’s no problem with pursuing monogamy, moving in together, marriage, or children. However, there is a problem with the constant pressure society puts on couples and singles to fit into the confines of this structure, in the order that it’s presented. Relationships — from how they progress to stabilize — don’t, and shouldn’t, look the same for everyone.

Where can the relationship escalator go wrong?

The relationship escalator is designed for cisgender heterosexual relationships and preferably those within a two-income, middle-class household. So many people fall outside of that demographic, and those that fall within still suffer from its pressure. Society makes you think it’s simple to get married, have children, or combine finances. But the reality for many is that it’s not possible or wise.

The relationship escalator also facilitates oppressive gender norms. Up until recently, women have faced insurmountable pressure to settle down and get married, despite what we actually may want. These changes likely stem from women advocating for themselves in the workplace and the media. Women also tend to extend more emotional labor in relationships with men. Despite the assumption that we live in an egalitarian society, women carry much of the burden in relationships.

On the other hand, men face pressure to financially provide for their families, whether or not that is economically viable. And, men still feel like they must be “in charge,” whether or not that’s the role that’s natural to them. These norms can lead to untold expectations between couples and frustration when they’re not fulfilled.

All of this is while marriage equality isn’t a real thing yet

Yes, same-sex marriage was legalized in the United States in 2015. Yet those who qualify for SSI benefits in the United States can risk losing their benefits if they get married. When faced with terminal or long-term illnesses, some couples choose to divorce in order to be eligible for Medicaid. Is this right? No. Is this a reality? Absolutely. Considering 26 percent of adults who report having some sort of disability in the U.S., we’re not talking about a small demographic.

When it comes to folks who practice some form of ethical non-monogamy or polyamory, marriage isn’t an option. While I’m sure my boyfriend would love to have two wives, the United States government doesn’t think that’s very cute. And since we’re not interested in moving to the African continent or the Middle East, where polygamy is legal, this leaves unmarried individuals without the same protections within these structures.

There’s also a precarity in having children in these situations. Few states allow children to have more than two parents. Many folks must jump through loopholes to have parental rights recognized. If you cannot afford a lawyer to aid you through the courts, where does that leave you?

One of the largest failings of the relationship escalator is that there is no descending it

Criticism is faced by those who deescalate or reorient their relationships, like those who decide to divorce, but still co-habitate and co-parent. After all, there’s still debate in wider circles if it’s okay to stay friends with your ex, as opposed to operating on a case by case basis with all of your relationships. Within relationships, couples may have trouble going back from combining income or becoming monogamous, all factors that cause conflict.

And honestly, some people just don’t want to follow the relationship escalator. You don’t need a valid reason to live your life the way you want to.

The unwanted scrutiny faced by those who do not follow “legitimate” relationship paths results in a lot of shame, second-guessing, and strife. Maybe you want to live with a platonic friend forever, and that suits you. Or maybe a history of mixing finances hasn’t worked well for you, and you promised yourself you wouldn’t do it again. This is all valid!

So how do we release ourselves from these expectations?

A lot of us are already doing it! Millennials are less likely to buy property, partner up, or have children than the generations before them. This comes with scrutiny, aka all the articles about millennials eating avocado toast instead of saving for retirement.

I’ve always lived my life openly, but not everyone is so lucky. My parents have accepted that they’re probably not going to get grandchildren from me. They have accepted that I’m queer and polyamorous. I never gave them the option otherwise. So how did I get here?

Accept who you are, and what your life path is. Once you do this, you begin living in your truth. You can be shameless, and loud about it. Or, if you want, you can be quiet about it. And if you don’t know what your life path is, that’s okay too! Just know that you designate it, and you alone.

Assert boundaries. Be calm, yet assertive with those who tell you how you must live your life. For example, if your mom keeps asking about grandchildren and it makes you uncomfortable, tell her to stop. If they continue to press and it becomes a problem, it may be time to reconsider how much you want to allow these folks into your life.

Surround yourself with like-minded folks. Community can be a balm. Create your own found family, so there are people who can validate your lifestyle choices. So long as you’re not hurting anyone or yourself, your options are always valid!

Once you release yourself from the idea of what your relationship should be like, the entire world opens up. So go out there and get the relationship that looks perfect for you!

Gabrielle Smith is a Brooklyn-based poet and writer. She writes about love/sex, mental illness, and intersectionality. You can keep up with her on Twitter and Instagram.



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Get Crazy in Love with Beyoncé and Peloton’s Collab

The days of the scared Peloton wife are officially over. The stationary bike giant Peloton has just launched a collab with its most requested artist and queen of female empowerment: Beyoncé.  

Cision PR Newswire reported that Peloton and Queen Bey just announced a broad, multi-year partnership that will celebrate music and social initiatives rooted in commemorating homecoming season and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

With the Black Lives Matter movement and the COVID-19 pandemic on our minds every day, a workout that slaps might be just what we need right now.

peloton x beyonce
Driely S. Carter

Homecoming returns, but make it fitness

You probably remember Beyoncé’s Netflix documentary, “Homecoming.” According to Nielsen, a data and market measurement firm, Forbes reported that the documentary broke streaming records. It was a gift to our ears before the whole 2020 debacle.

The doc’s iconic Coachella performance was, more importantly, a musical and visual tribute to HBCU homecoming culture, which Bey and Peloton are bringing back to your next sweat sesh.

Peloton’s nearly 3.6 million members will have access to a series of Homecoming themed workout experiences. And, it doesn’t matter if you have the Peloton Bike, Bike+, Tread+, or another compatible piece of hardware — you can be part of the Beyhive during any home workout via the Peloton app.

Workouts that give back

Beyoncé and Peloton are also giving away 2-year Peloton Digital memberships to students at 10 HBCUs by the end of November. Students will get access to the full Peloton fitness library — even if they don’t have equipment.

The stationary bike leader is also planning on creating more partnerships with these schools in the future, which is great news for those aspiring to have health and wellness careers.

So, what can you expect from Beyoncé x Peloton right now?

Log onto the Peloton App to stream or fire up your Peloton Bike, Bike+, or Tread+ and select instructors working the Beyoncé Artist Series. The special collab includes indoor cycling, running, strength, boot camp, yoga, and meditation, so you have no shortage of options to break a sweat.

Not ready to go team Peloton just yet or still mulling over your stationary bike options? You can still join Sasha Fierce on the Peloton App during a free workout via a 30-day trial.  

No matter your workout of choice, you can finally get that Beyoncé tude you need to power through your workout. Bow down, Peloton peeps.



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The Answer to Healing Stressful Situations? B-B-Boundaries

setting-boundaries
Design by Wenzdai Figueroa

Have you ever had that friend that you love spending time with until they started to do “just one thing” that ruined the mood? Or have you ever wanted to stay close to someone, but being together felt like a little bit of a struggle? I have.

The last several years have been full of change for me and for the people in my life. And when several of my relationships, that I value deeply, devolved into sites of stress, I found myself thinking about how to heal them, and how to prevent it from happening again. The answer? Boundaries and clear communication.

Boundaries are what allow us to *remain* close

The word “boundaries” feels rigid. Setting them might even feel rude, especially if you believe that boundaries herald the beginning of an end. But, when carefully created, they make space for joy and actually enhance our relationships. They allow us, and the relationships we’re in, to grow. They help us talk about the change without assumption, to avoid resentment, and to find a new template.

It isn’t easy to do, and takes time, but I’ve been able to shift my mindset and accept and set boundaries with more grace. The start? Embracing these thoughts:

1. Every person is a complete person

This may sound odd — or obvious — but I’ve often found myself falling into the trap of thinking about people solely through the lens of their relationship with me. Especially with family. But my aunt isn’t just my aunt and, similarly, your mom isn’t just your mom. They are entire people with lives outside of these roles.

Instead of lamenting what you think your relationship should look like, or perhaps how it has changed, realize that your experience with them is informed by their whole self. We can find joy in forming new, more authentic, bonds with a person’s entire being, rather than restricting them to only our experiences with them.

So, dig in, with yourself, and with them if possible. Ask:

  • What has made this person who they are?
  • How have they changed or adapted through their life?
  • What kinds of relationships do they seek now?
  • What is important to them — and why?

2. Meet people where they are

Every person has different lived experiences that shape why and how they show up the way they do. For those of us living with marginalized identities, this can be especially true. Anyone who is trying to heal from oppression will have different ways of communicating and expressing their needs.

They may have survival or coping mechanisms that make setting boundaries more difficult. Or they may be unsure what boundaries they need to thrive, having never had the opportunity to express them. This might mean boundaries are not clear, or that they shift or change quickly.

None of this contradicts them being a full person. Working through these fractures is part of their wholeness. It may feel like someone should know how pain makes them — or you — react but that’s rarely the case.

Instead of expecting a friend to know what you’re feeling or the impact of their behavior, be willing to have the conversation and share what this pain has done. By having open and clear communication about ourselves, we are able to more easily identify what activates us, and what boundaries will help us remain calm and connected.

And acknowledge that you can’t move them, only they can move themselves

Not everyone will be in the same place as us at the same time. When we acknowledge and accept this, we can find space for someone to be in our life as they are without sacrificing what we need to thrive, or the progress we have made in our own life. Remembering this — that all people are shaped by experiences from before we met them — allows us to form more empathetic and personal connections.

3. We have to be honest and direct

Many of us, especially the more marginalized we are, have been socialized to only hint at what we want and need. This is not a great way to communicate needs. We may even struggle with the belief that setting boundaries means someone loves, likes, or cares about you less. Or you might worry that you are communicating that you love, like, or care about them less. 

It’s the opposite.

People who love and want to be in relationship with you want to respect your boundaries. With clarity comes fewer miscommunications and interpretations of an experience. So the clearer we are, the less likely a boundary will be accidentally crossed, and the more unnecessary hurt we can avoid.

Bold, clear boundaries can reduce ambiguity and anxiety (once we get through setting them) and open us up to a more successful relationship. And to the the joy of witnessing growth to feeling seen and respected. 

4. Assume good intent

This is huge. Often people don’t have the language to express themselves clearly. When we begin to have these conversations about boundaries, setting and enforcing, there is room for miscommunication and hurt.

If we respond with defensiveness, we endanger the potential for growth. When we react with curiosity and assume that this person also wants to grow, usually we can find a way forward. You might have boundaries about how you communicate boundaries! And that is fantastic! But assuming good intent is a good place to start, from both sides.

5. Boundaries change, and that’s good!

Setting boundaries can be an opportunity for a relationship to shift, grow, and even blossom. As we change our relationships change. Communicating these changes allows us to stay close, even become closer, as life moves forward.

Take, for example, our relationships with our parents. As children we look to our parents to direct us and make decisions for us, as we grow the decisions become suggestions and advice. Setting a new parent boundary might begin with “Hi mom, thank you so much for caring about my health, but please don’t comment on my weight.” 

The same goes with childhood friends — maybe you shared all your crushes and milestones with a friend growing up, but as you move into more adult relationships you no longer feel comfortable sharing all parts of your relationship. Setting a boundary might look like “Hey Friend, I’m so glad you like my partner, but it makes me uncomfortable for you to comment on our sex life.”

Setting the boundary may feel like something is being taken away, and if it feels too stark you can add something that you do want to share, “…but I would love it if you would be willing to teach me the recipes from grandma” or “…I’m thinking of proposing, will you help me plan it.”

By letting those close to us know what we don’t want, we can invite what we do, and feel closer by not becoming irritated by what’s no longer serving the relationship.

This is far from an exhaustive list — in fact, yours might look a little different

These five thoughts were pivotal in helping me shift from looking at boundaries as something to be afraid of, to something to be embraced and celebrated. Once I started integrating this new perspective, while seeing the challenging conversations as expressions of love, my relationships improved.

I have confidence that the people I am in relationships with want to continue to share their time and energy with me, which eases so much of my anxiety. I have less fear about change, and more excitement about growing with the people in my life. There is joy in realizing people care about you enough to recognize your whole self, and there is joy when you recognize the wholeness of others. There is continual reciprocated joy when mutual needs are honored in order to help your relationships grow.

Indigo Sage is a sometimes writer, always over thinker, living, working, and daydreaming in Washington DC. You can follow her on Twitter @indigosage2.



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37 Fantastically Festive Advent Calendars to Fuel Your Holiday Cheer

Advent calendars are as synonymous with the holidays as a cookie exchange — and they’re a super fun way to keep the magic going all December long.

Whatever your festive style — whether you’re a wine-o, a chocolate lover, or a crafty parent — we’ve got a calendar to put a little jingle in your step.

Check out these 37 (yep, *37*) advent calendars that’ll feed your festive fire.

best advent calendars

How we chose

We went all the way to the North Pole to find the most awesome advent calendars 😉. From traditional to over-the-top, there’s something for everyone! More merry news: We also made sure to include lots of options for all budgets.

Pricing guide

Advent calendars can be affordable, super expensive, and everything in between. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect one:

  • $ = under $20
  • $$ = $20–$40
  • $$$ = $41–$75
  • $$$$ = $76–$150
  • $$$$$ = over $150

Shopping PSA

When you spot the advent calendar you want, snap it up ASAP. Most advent calendars are made in limited quantities, and they can sell out fast.

Plus, you want to make abso-posi-lutely sure your calendar arrives by December 1.

The 37 best advent calendars of 2020

1. Advent calendar that’s just like the one you got as a kid: Vermont Christmas Company Snowman Celebration Chocolate Advent Calendar

Vermont Christmas Company Snowman Celebration Chocolate Advent Calendar

Price: $

Looking to relive the nostalgic Decembers of your youth, when every day after dinner (or before breakfast — no judgment), you’d punch open a cardboard window and gobble up a piece of chocolate? Here’s a cheap, tasty trip down memory lane.

Buy the Vermont Christmas Company Snowman Celebration Chocolate Advent Calendar online.

2. Musical advent calendar: Uncommon Goods Holiday Favorites Advent Calendar Playlist

25 Day Advent Calendar Playlist

Price: $$

Here’s an advent calendar that’ll spruce up your holiday playlist with some fresh tuneage. Scratch off each day to reveal a QR code that’ll take you to a new cover of a holiday classic like “Silent Night” or “Feliz Navidad.” 

Buy the Uncommon Goods Holiday Favorites Advent Calendar Playlist online.

3. Advent calendar to support your winter self-care regimen: Lush 12 Days of Christmas

LUSH 12 Days of Christmas

Price: $$$$

This festive reusable box is packed with seasonal self-care treats like Roasting Chestnuts on an Open Fire Shower Gel, a Winter Garden bath bomb, Golden Pear soap, and a Candy Cane bubble bar.

Treat yourself to 12 days of festive relaxation… or try them all at once for the most epic bath experience of all time.

Buy Lush 12 Days of Christmas online.

4. Holiday movie-themed advent calendar: Jakks Holiday Elf Advent Calendar

Target Elf Advent Calendar

Price: $$

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is counting down the holiday with Buddy, Jovie, and all their North Pole pals! Each of the 24 windows is filled with a tiny figurine from the movie. Use the pop-up diorama pieces to create an “Elf”-inspired scene (while you watch the movie, obv).

Buy the Jakks Holiday Elf Advent Calendar online.

5. Super fancy chocolate advent calendar: Charbonel et Walker Chocolate and Truffles Advent Calendar

Charbonel et Walker Chocolate and Truffles Advent Calendar

Price: $$$$

This fancy calendar from swanky British chocolatier Charbonel et Walker is filled with confections, each packed in its own gold box. With a classy look that’s straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, this is pretty much the definition of treat yo’self. 

Buy the Charbonel et Walker Chocolate and Truffles Advent Calendar online.

6. Advent calendar for art lovers: yellowpapers Advent Calendar Painting Gallery

yellowpapers Advent Calendar Painting Gallery

Price: $

Behind every day’s door hides a famous work of art. Guessing them all will remind you what a great job you did in art history! Or it’ll serve as an art crash course if you skipped this class in high school. Either way, it’s fun.

FYI: It ships all the way from Germany, so you’ll want to order ASAP.

Buy the yellowpapers Advent Calendar Painting Gallery online.

7. Most magical advent calendar: Meri Meri Unicorn Stamp Advent Calendar Set

Meri Meri Unicorn Stamp Advent Calendar Set

It’s supposedly for kids, but whatever. What adult wouldn’t be excited about having a new unicorn-themed stamp to open every day for 25 days straight plus three colorful inkpads, all in a pretty silver box?

Price: $$

Buy the Meri Meri Unicorn Stamp Advent Calendar Set online.

8. Advent calendar for puzzle people: New York Puzzle Company City Advent Calendar

New York Puzzle Company City Advent Calendar

Price: $

OK, it’s technically a jigsaw puzzle designed to look like an advent calendar. So instead of opening a little window, you can divvy up the pieces over the month and tackle a handful every day — maybe with a mug of hot cocoa while you’re cozied up in front of the Yule log.

Buy the New York City Puzzle Company City Advent Calendar online.

9. Advent calendar to help keep your spirits up during the weirdest Christmas season ever: Mantel Positivity Advent Calendar

Mantel Positivity Advent Calendar

Price: $ 

If Christmas cheer feels a little tougher to muster this year, this calendar can help you get into the holiday spirit. It has 24 thought prompts focused on themes like gratitude, motivation, knowledge, wellness, and kindness.

It ships from England, so order sooner rather than later.

Buy the Mantel Positivity Advent Calendar online.

10. Hygge-inspired advent calendar: Modo Creative A Mindful Advent Candle Set

Modo Creative A Mindful Advent Candle Set

Price: $$

This box comes with 25 handmade beeswax candles, one for lighting each day before Christmas. Each candle lasts for 20 minutes. That’s just enough time to bask in the glow and soak in the season.

This one also ships from England, so again, order early.

Buy the Modo Creative A Mindful Advent Candle Set online.

11. Advent calendar that can double as your Christmas tree: Rifle Paper Co. Advent Calendar

Rifle Paper Co. Advent Calendar

Price: $

Even though it’s not an actual tree, it’s total “O Tannenbaum” vibes. And unlike with a real tree, you don’t have to worry about water levels or needle shedding or your cat/dog/toddler knocking the whole thing over.

Buy the Rifle Paper Co. Advent Calendar online.

12. Heirloom-level advent calendar: Orvis Animated Advent Village

 Orvis Animated Advent Village

Price: $$$$

Maybe you’re looking for an advent calendar you can pull out year after year. That way you can fill it with your own special treats for generations to come. If so, this animated light-up advent village fits the bill.

Buy the Orvis Animated Advent Village online.

13. Beer lover’s advent calendar: City Brew Tours 12 Beers of Christmas Craft Beer Box

Beer Lover's Advent Calendar

Price: $$$$

Self-explanatory but still awesome. This curated collection of 12 craft beers comes from breweries all across the country. From Belgian stouts to American IPAs, it has something for everyone.

Bonus: You can tune in to City Brew Tours’ livestream during the actual 12 days to hear beer experts talk about each beer. 🍻

Buy the City Brew Tours 12 Beers of Christmas Craft Beer Box online.

14. Boozy advent calendar: Flaviar Whiskies of the World Advent Calendar

Flaviar Whiskies of the World Advent Calendar

Price: $$$$$

Christmas time is definitely brown spirit season. This box serves up 24 shot-size samples of premium whiskies from all around the globe. It even comes with a glass!

Buy the Flaviar Whiskies of the World Advent Calendar online.

15. Advent calendar to keep your brain busy: Coogam Metal Wire Puzzle Toys Advent Calendar

Coogam Metal Wire Puzzle Toys Advent Calendar

Price: $ 

If you need a distraction from your fam (or from the fact that you can’t be with them this year), these daily brain teasers can help get your mind off things for a few minutes. (Or maybe longer — some of them are hard!)

Buy the Coogam Metal Wire Puzzles Toy Advent Calendar online.

16. Advent calendar for toddlers and preschoolers: B bangcool DIY Felt Christmas Tree

B bangcool DIY Felt Christmas Tree

Price: $

It’s not technically an advent calendar, but we guarantee the 2-year-old in your life won’t care. Hang the felt tree on the wall and let them decorate! They can add a new felt ornament each day until Christmas.

You can also give them the entire set at once while you work on the actual tree. It’s just as much fun!

Buy the B bangcool DIY Felt Christmas Tree online.

17. Fill-your-own advent calendar: Target Prize Punch Advent Calendar

Target Punch Advent Calendar

Price: $

Personalized gifts are always the best. Featuring 12 pockets, this festive box is the perfect vessel. Fill each box with your Secret Santa’s favorite candies and treats.

Buy the Target Prize Punch Advent Calendar online.

18. Ultrasplurge advent calendar: Jo Malone Advent Calendar

Jo Malone Advent Calendar

Price: $$$$$

This luxe set serves up 25 tiny-but-totally-indulgent surprises from the high-end perfumer Jo Malone. It includes colognes, soaps, mini candles, and more. And as you’d expect, each one smells incredible.

FYI: This one sells out super fast. So buy it ASAP!

Buy the Jo Malone Advent Calendar online.

19. Advent calendar that might actually inspire you to send IRL Christmas cards: BIC Advent Calendar

BIC Advent Calendar

Price: $$$

Over the month of December, you’ll get a collection of colorful felt-tipped pens, rich colored pencils, ball pens, and crayons. This calendar also includes glue and stickers, in case the mood to make a “Christmas 2020” scrapbook strikes.

Buy the BIC Advent Calendar online.

20. Advent calendar for accessorizing year-round: Meri Meri Enamel Pin Advent Calendar

Meri Meri Enamel Pin Advent Calendar

Price: $$$

Unlike chocolate, you can enjoy the 12 enamel pins in this cheery advent calendar over and over. A few of the pins are winter-themed, but most (oh hey, lobster and cactus pins) are stylish all year long.

Buy the Meri Meri Enamel Pin Advent Calendar online.

21. Advent calendar that’s fun to do with a kid: Crayola Christmas Countdown Calendar

Crayola Christmas Countdown Calendar

Price: $$

Each of the 24 numbered doors has a fun holiday craft suitable for kids ages 3 and up. Best of all, there’ll be plenty of leftover crayons, markers, paint, and modeling clay to use after Christmas too.

Buy the Crayola Christmas Countdown Calendar online.

22. Awesome advent calendar for bakers: Cookie Advent Cookbook

Cookie Advent Cookbook

Price: $

If you’d rather DIY your holiday treats, here’s one for you. Each of the 24 flaps on the front of the book directs you to a fresh holiday recipe. Flip inside the book to find the full deets for making each baked good.

Buy the Cookie Advent Cookbook online.

23. Advent calendar for your cat: Purina Fancy Feast Limited Edition Feastivities Advent Calendar

Purina Fancy Feast Advent Calendar

Price: $$

Do you ever worry that your cat doesn’t have much to look forward to aside from watching birds from the window? This variety pack of 24 mouthwatering meals will def ease your guilt… at least until December 26.

Buy the Purina Fancy Feast Limited Edition Feastivities Advent Calendar online.

24. Throwback advent calendar: Nickelodeon 15 Days of Socks Calendar

Price: $

Flipping on Nickelodeon to watch back-to-back episodes of “SpongeBob SquarePants,” “The Ren & Stimpy Show,” “Hey Arnold!,” and “CatDog” might not be an option these days. But you can relive all your fave shows with a fresh pair of Nick-themed socks every day for 15 days leading up to Christmas, which is almost as good. 

Buy the Nickelodeon 15 Days of Socks Calendar online.

25. Advent calendar with an energy boost, but make it chill: DAVIDsTEA 24 Days of Matcha

David's Tea Matcha Advent Calendar

Price: $$$

There are plenty of tea advent calendars out there, but you won’t find too many devoted to just matcha. This one’s loaded with tasty, surprising powdered green tea blends, like cherry blossom matcha, mango matcha, and yuzu matcha. You also get vegan matcha gummies and matcha honey.

Buy DAVIDsTEA 24 Days of Matcha online.

26. Advent calendar for folks who take facial hair seriously: The BeardedManCompany Christmas Beard Oil Advent Calendar

The BeardedManCompany Christmas Beard Oil Advent Calendar

Price: $$$

Even if it’s under a mask, the beard still deserves some love. This calendar offers up 24 scented oils to keep it looking and smelling awesome all month long.

Buy TheBeardedManCompany Christmas Beard Oil Advent Calendar online.

27. Advent calendar for people who like to build things: Haynes Retro Radio Advent Calendar

Haynes Retro Radio Advent Calendar

Price: $$

This kit gives you 24 pieces you can put together, day by day, to build a working FM radio. Wowza! Have some AA batteries on hand for when you’re ready to hit the ON button on Christmas morning.

Buy the Haynes Retro Radio Advent Calendar online.

28. White chocolate advent calendar: Hotel Chocolat The Advent Calendar White

Hotel Chocolat The Advent Calendar White

Price: $

This calendar is all about that white chocolate. Throughout December you get to taste 24 creamy, not-too-sweet white treats shaped like penguins, spruce trees, angels, and more. 

Buy the Hotel Chocolat The Advent Calendar White online.

29. Advent calendar packed with hair accessories: Papersource 12 Days of Scrunchies Advent Calendar

Papersource 12 Days of Scrunchies Advent Calendar

Price: $$

C’mon, you know you want a box filled with 12 new surprise scrunchies — especially colorful ones that are fluffy, velvety, and even mesh.

Buy the Papersource 12 Days of Scrunchies Advent Calendar online.

30. Hanukkah calendar: Sugarfina 8 Nights of Light Advent Calendar

Sugarfina 8 Nights of Light Hanukkah Calendar

Price: $$

Bust out this baby each night of Hanukkah for a surprise sweet treat like snow jellies, robin’s egg caramels, sugar cookies, blueberry jelly beans, and more. 

Buy the Sugarfina 8 Nights of Light Advent Calendar online.

31. Advent calendar that gives back: Penny Pincher Reverse Advent Calendar

Penny Pincher Advent Calendar

Price: Cost varies, but kindness is worth the price!

Reverse advent calendars are all about giving back and spreading the holiday spirit. This one has a list of 24 nonperishable food items to add to a box over the course of December. Come Christmas Eve, you can donate your filled box to a local food bank or shelter.

See the Penny Pincher Reverse Advent Calendar online.

32. Advent calendar for the person who’s watched every “Friends” episode 30 times: Friends: The Official Advent Calendar

Official Friends Advent Calendar

Price: $$

The one where you get 40 awesome “Friends”-themed keepsakes stuffed into 25 surprise pockets. That’s enough tchotchkes to make your apartment look as quirky as Monica and Rachel’s. 

Buy Friends: The Official Advent Calendar online.

33. Nail polish advent calendar: OPI Nail Lacquer Mini 25 Pack Advent Calendar

OPI Nail Lacquer Mini 25 Pack Advent Calendar

Price: $$$

Commit to 25 days of color with this nail polish advent calendar — or divvy up the polishes as mini stocking stuffers for your favorite elf friends. Your secret is safe with us.

Buy the OPI Nail Lacquer Mini 25 Pack Advent Calendar online.

34. Advent calendar that’s nicer than your current Christmas decor: World Market Wood Nordic Winter LED Light Up Countdown Calendar

World Market Wood Nordic Winter LED Light Up Countdown Calendar

Price: $$

Even looking at this elegant calendar will make you feel all warm and fuzzy. Its 24 tiny wood drawers are perfect for filling with trinkets and treats.

Buy the World Market Wood Nordic Winter LED Light Up Countdown Calendar online.

35. Advent calendar that’s so kawaii: Hello Kitty Chocolate Advent Calendar

Hello Kitty Chocolate Advent Calendar

Price: $

TBH, it’s overpriced and the chocolate probably isn’t the best ever. But the illustrations of HK, Keroppi, My Melody, and Badtz-Maru are too cute to pass up.

Buy the Hello Kitty Chocolate Advent Calendar online.

36. Advent calendar for lash lovers: Ardell 12 Days of Wispies Advent Calendar

Ardell 12 Days of Wispies Advent Calendar

Price: $$

The 12 sets of falsies are a fun way to keep it glam all season long. Even if you’re only getting decked out for a Zoom party.

Buy the Ardell 12 Days of Wispies Advent Calendar online.

37. Advent calendar for your sweet pup: Snif-Snax Happy Holiday Advent Calendar Salmon & Sweet Potato Dog Treats

Snif-Snax Happy Holiday Advent Calendar Salmon & Sweet Potato Dog Treats

Price: $

Your pupper definitely won’t mind that all 25 of the treats in this canine-friendly calendar are exactly the same. In fact, by day 3, your furbaby will know what’s good. They’ll come running over as soon as they see the box.

Buy Snif-Snax Happy Holiday Advent Calendar Salmon & Sweet Potato Dog Treats online.

tl;dr

Advent calendars are like holiday music: maybe a little cheesy but also super satisfying. With these 37 picks, there’s something for everyone on Santa’s “nice” list! Ho-ho-ho.



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