Happy Friday! It’s been too long since I shared some new favorites, so here are a few things I’ve been loving lately.
Forlife Teacup
I could write a whole post about tea — there are so many varieties, flavors, strengths and health benefits. I’m not a strict tea purist, but I do love a flavorful, full-bodied cup that’s not bitter or overly sharp. Recently I began making loose-leaf tea and it changed my tea routine. Loose leaves steeped in an infuser can expand and release more vitamins, minerals and aroma than a typical tea bag allows.
My husband and I ordered tea at a restaurant in Park City and it was served in beautiful Forlife teacups designed for loose-leaf brewing. The cups are more elegant in person than in photos. They come with a large, high-quality stainless-steel infuser so you can let your tea blossom fully. The cup itself is high-fired ceramic and includes a rubber holder to protect your hands and prevent slipping when you’re juggling things on the go. The lid’s lip flips over to hold the infuser after brewing, which is practical for the office or travel. They come in many colors and make a lovely gift.
7-Minute Workout
Eating seasonally and clean is important, but exercise is a key part of my routine. I try to move 5–6 days a week, though I don’t always have time for a 45–60 minute session. That’s why the 7-minute workout appeals to me: it requires only a phone, a small bit of space and a chair. I keep a short video downloaded for quick sessions in the bathroom or a hotel room while traveling. Seven minutes is better than none, and if you struggle to find time for exercise, give a short, focused routine a try.
Placemats from Rogers Gardens
I’m currently obsessed with the Bodrum placemats from Rogers Gardens in Orange County. I discovered them during a recent visit and bought them immediately. They combine simple design with a pleasing texture and practical washability — they look like textured linen but wipe clean. They’re available in many colors; I chose a light gray for its versatility. To order, contact Rogers Gardens by phone at 949.640.5800.
Food cutters
If you follow me on Instagram, you saw I had fun cutting food into hearts and flowers for Valentine’s Day. Food art can be over the top, but a little creativity in the kitchen is fun, especially for holidays or special occasions. Mini cutters work on nearly any flat food: cheese, tortillas, jicama, sandwiches, pie crust, watermelon, cucumber slices and more. I’ve used classic heart and round cutters for years, and recently added tiny heart and flower cutters for fruits and small items like banana slices, carrots, avocados, strawberries and kiwi. They’re perfect for playful snacks and lunchbox surprises.
The Food Therapist
Shira Lenchewski, a registered dietitian and resident nutritionist at GOOP, is a friend and a thoughtful guide on relationships with food. Her book, The Food Therapist, offers compassionate, practical strategies for becoming more mindful about eating and breaking cycles of stress eating and cravings. It reads like a supportive therapy session and offers recipes and tools to help you build a healthier relationship with food. I’m excited to share one of her recipes — roasted sesame-ginger Brussels sprouts — next week.
As always, I have not been compensated by any of these brands.