Hi, {{first_name | friend}}!
When summer turns into heavy heat and hazy skies, the summertime sadness can creep in. If you’re feeling blue, lean into gentler company with the kind of cozy shows and warm conversations that let you relax. Today’s picks are here to help you feel a little more human while taking care of yourself. Let’s get into it.
Quick Links
Author Spotlight
Oliver Burkeman is a British journalist and author known for challenging productivity, time management, and self-improvement culture. His writing blends psychology, philosophy, and humor to help readers make peace with their limitations during trying times rather than constantly trying to push past them.
Four Thousand Weeks
When summer feels like an overwhelming marathon of events, Burkeman offers relief: you were never meant to do it all. Reach for this guide when the FOMO gets loud—it's a quiet, steadying reminder that missing a few pool days won't cost you the meaningful life you're after.
Meditations for Mortals
This national bestseller is built for the days when your motivation is low or you’re stuck inside. These bite-sized daily reflections meet you where you are, no big life overhaul required. Think of it as your “OK” to let today just be what it is.
The Blog
Together with ThriftBooks
Age Is A Mindset: 6 of the Best New Granny Hobby Books
Picking up a new hobby can do wonders for your wellbeing by helping you engage your senses, flex your creative muscles, and even find new communities. And, best of all, those hobbies don't have to be "intense"—in fact, some of the best ones for unwinding and self-care are "granny" hobbies, aka knitting, coloring, bird-watching, and crocheting, to name a few. Learn more about the benefits of these crafts, then treat yourself to affordable crafting books from ThriftBooks to bring your new favorite hobby to life.
Great Escapes Indoors
Enjoy wellness tips and entertainment in your home by putting on a docuseries that takes you to far-off places.
Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones
Streaming on Netflix
Explorer Dan Buettner travels to the world's longest-living communities — from Sardinia to Okinawa — uncovering the diet, movement, and social habits behind their longevity, and distilling his findings into lessons anyone can apply.
Down to Earth with Zac Efron
Streaming on Netflix
Zac Efron circles the globe with wellness expert Darin Olien, exploring sustainable food systems, clean energy, and healthy living in places like Iceland, Peru, and Sardinia. Together, they prove eco-conscious living can be both impactful and genuinely fun.
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
The Vibe: Rooted in culture, steps from the sea
The Location: Lahaina, HI
Instaworthy Accommodations:
Perched on the golden sands of Maui’s most famous beach, OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort offers an authentic island stay infused with modern comforts. The 432 guest rooms are spacious and airy, with private lanais overlooking lush gardens, the Pacific Ocean, or the West Maui Mountains. Cultural immersion is at the heart of every stay at OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort. Learn to dance hula, make a lei, or paddle a canoe in the crystal-clear waters. Come sunset, grab a mai tai and head to the beachfront tiki bar for live music and a torch lighting ceremony you’ll never forget.
Podcasts to Keep You Company
Some days you just need a voice in your ear that gets it.
Ten Percent Happier
Hosted by journalist and bestselling author Dan Harris, this podcast features candid conversations with meditation teachers, scientists, and public figures on mindfulness, mental health, and finding calm — all with humor and zero new-age pretension for the reluctant self-improver.
Unlocking Us
Brené Brown hosts intimate, research-grounded conversations about vulnerability, courage, and connection with guests ranging from authors to athletes. Each episode digs into what it means to be human, offering comfort and insight for anyone navigating hard emotions.
Sponsored
Fire Up Your Metabolism. Naturally.
Support your body's natural metabolism with Metabolism Ignite™, a doctor-developed, plant-based formula designed to help curb cravings, balance blood sugar, and promote healthy weight management. Powered by clinically studied ingredients, it's an easy addition to your daily wellness routine—with no prescription required.
Sponsored
Afternoon energy. Minus the afternoon coffee.
Pique’s new X·E Fountain energy drink delivers clean, caffeine-free energy without the jitters, crash, or dehydration. Vitamin B Complex, magnesium, and electrolytes help support steady focus, while crisp cucumber-celery-lime makes every sip ridiculously refreshing.