It’s crucial to make sure we’re doing SPF right, because “daily, consistent sunscreen use has been shown to reduce the risk of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma,” says Tiffany J. Libby, MD, director of Mohs Micrographic and Dermatologic Surgery at Brown Dermatology in Providence, Rhode Island. “It’s also the No. 1 anti-aging intervention, as up to 80% to 90% of visible skin aging is driven by UV exposure.”

But sunscreen does the job only if you apply it thoroughly, adds Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “So you need to make sure there aren’t missed areas,” he says. One study, published in the scientific journal PLOS One, found that people miss 20% of their exposed skin!

So where should we be applying sunscreen … but often don’t? And what other SPF mistakes are putting our skin at risk? To find out, I asked Dr. Libby and Dr. Zeichner about everything SPF. Read on to learn the surprising spots we’re missing, the best ways to apply sunscreen and tricks to keeping your skin fully protected this summer and every day of the year.

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Where do most people forget to apply sunscreen?

There are a few key spots we overlook, but a huge one is our scalp, including the part and hairline. Whether you have thick locks or are hair-challenged, you need SPF up there. “I frequently see skin cancers high on the forehead, right at the hairline,” Dr. Zeichner says. “Make sure that you rub sunscreen into the hairline to avoid any missed areas.” Or use a spray formula, which is easy to apply up top.

Why is it so important to cover this area?

It’s essential to apply SPF to the scalp and hairline zone because these are common skin cancer sites. Melanoma of the scalp is a particular worry. Scalp melanoma, which is six times more common in men than women, tends to be more aggressive than melanomas on other parts of the body, according to a 2021 study review. And it sometimes gets diagnosed late because it can be hard to detect underneath hair.

Your best bet is to be vigilant about scalp sunscreen coverage, see your dermatologist for annual skin checks and get in the habit of wearing a tight-weave hat.

What other body parts do we overlook?

There are a few other places on the face and body that we tend to skip over when slapping on the sunscreen. These are the biggies, according to the pros:

• Lips: People forget to use SPF lip balm, and as a result, “we see a significant number of precancerous and cancerous lesions there,” Dr. Libby says.
• Ears, eyelids and nose: “As a Mohs surgeon, I disproportionately see skin cancers on the ears and nose, where UV exposure is high but sunscreen application is often inconsistent,” Dr. Libby says. (Mohs surgery involves slicing away thin layers of skin to remove cancers.)
• Upper middle back: This zone is just beyond where your arm can reach—and that’s a problem. “It’s very difficult for someone to apply sunscreen to their own back without any missed areas,” Dr. Zeichner says. “Make sure you have a sunscreen buddy for help with application.” While they’re there, make sure they get the back of your neck and legs too.

How do you keep your skin safe from the sun’s harsh rays?

First off, be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher. It doesn’t matter if you choose a mineral/physical block (like zinc oxide) or a chemical block, Dr. Libby says, as long as you use it consistently. “SPF is only as effective as how you apply it,” she says. Most of us use a measly 25% to 50% of the amount needed, so we’re not getting the protection level we think. “Skin cancer is rarely from one bad sunburn but from years of under-protection,” she stresses.

Ready to up your sunscreen game? Follow these pro rules:

• Don’t skimp: “You need about a shot glass for the body and a nickel-sized amount for the face to reach the labeled SPF,” Dr. Libby says. Dr. Zeichner shares this trick to make sure you’re using enough on your face: Apply a line of product on your index and middle fingers from the tips to where they meet the palm. “This two-finger rule is generally enough to cover the full face,” he says.
• Reapply often: Slather on more product every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming, because protection wears off, Dr. Libby says. Over time, chemical sunscreen ingredients become inactivated, and mineral sunscreen ingredients clump, Dr. Zeichner adds, “so they lose effectiveness, and you might think that you are sun protected when you aren’t.”
• Spot the spray: When we’re using a spray sunscreen, hold the sunscreen 1 inch from your skin and spray until the skin glistens, then rub it in, Dr. Zeichner says. “If you don’t see the sunscreen on the skin, then it isn’t there.”
• Keep swiping: When protecting your skin with a stick sunscreen, rub it back-and-forth for four passes to ensure you’ve deposited enough on your skin, Dr. Zeichner says. Then rub the sunscreen in with your hand.
• Think beyond SPF: “Don’t rely on sunscreen alone—combine it with protective behaviors like hats, sunglasses and seeking shade, especially during peak UV hours,” Dr. Libby says. “I always tell patients: Sunscreen works best as part of a broader sun-protection strategy, not in isolation.”

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; email interview, May 12, 2026
• Tiffany J. Libby, MD, director of Mohs micrographic and dermatologic surgery at Brown Dermatology in Providence, Rhode Island, and assistant professor of dermatology at Brown University Warren Alpert School of Medicine; email interview, May 11, 2026
• Melanoma Research Foundation: “Melanoma Facts & Stats”
• Skin Cancer Foundation: “Skin Cancer Facts & Statistics”
• PLOS One: “Sunscreen use optimized by two consecutive applications”
• Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology: “Diagnosis and Management of Melanoma of the Scalp: A Review of the Literature”

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Fitzgerald’s latest book, American Rambler (the follow-up to his 2022 critically acclaimed memoir, Dirtbag, Massachusetts), finds him on a quest to retrace the steps of John Chapman, the American folk hero more commonly known as Johnny Appleseed, who wandered the Ohio Valley and Midwest planting nurseries in the early 1800s.

Setting out to understand and untangle Chapman’s legend leads Fitzgerald to grapple with the legends and myths within his own life—and seek counsel from the locals he meets along the way. The book has already been endorsed by everyone from John Green, Tara Westover and Colson Whitehead to actor Ethan Hawke.

“This country is an experiment and it’s not always perfect, but the people that fill it are so wonderful and complex and diverse,” Fitzgerald says of his experience. “And there are so many different ways to be an American. But really what I found when I was out there was all these ways in which we’re so similar. I think it’s easy to forget that. One of the most fulfilling things about his journey for me was meeting so many different people from so many different backgrounds who I got along with.”

After following the path of Johnny Appleseed for a full year, Fitzgerald also has a very definite point of view about apples. The best variety? “There are so many wonderful [varieties] out there, but I’ve got it give it to Honeycrisp,” he says. “Honeycrisp gets the job done every single time.”

Watch Fitzgerald’s exclusive interview with Reader’s Digest below—and then scroll down to shop his books and reading recommendations!

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’ve been sharing our favorite books for over 100 years. We’ve worked with bestselling authors including Susan Orlean, Janet Evanovich and Alex Haley, whose Pulitzer Prize–winning Roots grew out of a project funded by and originally published in the magazine. Through Fiction Favorites (formerly Select Editions and Condensed Books), Reader’s Digest has been publishing anthologies of abridged novels for decades. We’ve worked with some of the biggest names in fiction, including James Patterson, Ruth Ware, Kristin Hannah and more. The Reader’s Digest Book Club, helmed by Books Editor Tracey Neithercott, introduces readers to even more of today’s best fiction by upcoming, bestselling and award-winning authors. For this piece, Leigh Belz Ray interviewed author Isaac Fitzgerald to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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And then she stayed. They all stayed. For the entire party.

The puppy spent the next two hours jumping on children, eating cake off the table, conducting a thorough investigation of my garbage can, sniffing myriad butts and generally treating my house like his personal playground. Some kids thought it was hilarious. Several were genuinely terrified. My birthday kid, to his credit, took it in stride (although he did try to take the pup on the trampoline before we caught him). Meanwhile, I spent the party moving the garbage can from room to room like I was playing some kind of frantic shell game. And the dog’s owner watched with a fond, helpless expression that made me want to shake her. She would just shrug and say, “Puppies—what are you gonna do?”

Before I get into my thoughts about what she should have done, I want to start by establishing my credentials as a dog person because what I’m about to say might get me barked off the internet. I have a 13-year-old schnauzer-mix rescue named Stormy. She would be zippered into my skin if I would let her. I am basically her emotional support human. And when she gives me one of her soulful looks, I feel like I’ve finally been understood. So yeah, we’re close.

And I still don’t bring her to other people’s parties. (She was even kept in the basement during my son’s birthday party.) I take her to Home Depot, because Home Depot welcomes dogs and hands out treats like it’s Halloween. Beyond that, Stormy stays home, because I love her and I respect other people, and those two things are not mutually exclusive.

Not everyone has arrived at this conclusion.

This is the etiquette dilemma of our moment: People love their dogs with a ferocity usually reserved for firstborns, and they’ve decided that love entitles them to bring their dogs absolutely everywhere. Are they right? Or are they, in fact, ruining it for everyone? Let’s discuss.

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The case for bringing your pup to the party

Dogs belong in more places than they used to. According to the American Pet Products Association, 53% of U.S. households owned a dog in 2025—that’s 71 million dogs living in American homes. They’re not accessories. They’re family members. And the world has slowly, appropriately adjusted to reflect that.

A well-trained, leashed dog at an outdoor party that the host invited them to is not a problem. Neither is a calm, quiet dog at a casual backyard barbecue full of dog lovers who are actively delighted by its presence. Outdoor spaces, dog-friendly events, gatherings where the host has specifically and enthusiastically extended the invitation to your dog—these are real scenarios, and in them, your dog is welcome, and everyone is happy.

There’s also the health dimension. For people with chronic illnesses, anxiety or other mental health conditions, having their dog nearby can genuinely matter. And real service dogs—animals specifically and rigorously trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities—have earned the right to go everywhere their handler goes. Full stop, no discussion.

So yes, sometimes bringing your dog is great.

The case against bringing your dog

The problems start when people conflate “my dog is important to me” with “my dog must be welcome any place that I am welcome.” Your dog’s presence at a social gathering is not a neutral event. It changes the energy of the room, the behavior of the other guests and the experience of the host, who now has to think about whether the dog will jump on Aunt Carol, whether anyone is allergic, whether the toddler wandering around is going to stick her hand in the dog’s face, and whether the garbage can needs to be moved to a higher location. (Asking for a friend.)

Not everyone loves dogs—or can be around dogs. About 10% to 20% of people have some degree of pet allergy, and even small dogs can trigger serious reactions. Yes, even “hypoallergenic” dogs can still cause an allergic reaction. Not to mention that there are also people who have had genuinely frightening experiences with dogs. And small children, who cannot be expected to hold still while a stranger’s dog “just wants to say hi,” are especially vulnerable.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are an estimated 4.5 million dog bites per year in the United States, and overstimulation—crowded spaces, excited kids, unfamiliar people—is one of the most common triggers. Even dogs that are perfectly lovely at home can become anxious and reactive at a birthday party.

Let’s talk about the fake service dog problem

Ah yes. The elephant—or rather, the Labradoodle—in the room.

Real service dogs are extraordinary. They undergo 18 to 24 months of rigorous, specialized training before being matched with a partner who depends on them for daily functioning. They are calm in loud environments, focused under pressure and trained to perform specific tasks tied to their handler’s disability. They are a medical necessity.

Emotional support animals (ESAs) occupy a different, legally distinct category: Their presence provides emotional comfort, but they are not trained to perform specific disability-related tasks and do not have the same public access rights as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

To be clear: The people who rely on emotional support animals often have real needs. Someone whose anxiety makes leaving the house genuinely hard—who can barely get through a social gathering without their dog anchoring them—isn’t making it up. ESAs can be life-changing for people managing anxiety, PTSD, depression and other mental health conditions, and their protections in housing and certain travel contexts exist for good reason.

Here’s where it gets messy. A 2023 study found that 60% of ESA owners had falsely presented their emotional support dog as a service dog at least once—and 18% did so frequently. As a result, more than 33 states have now enacted laws making it illegal to fraudulently pass off a pet as a service animal. Penalties can include fines up to $1,000 and, in some states, jail time.

The harm isn’t abstract. When untrained dogs behave badly in public while wearing a vest ordered off Amazon, it creates suspicion and friction for the people who genuinely, legitimately need their service animals to function in the world. You’ve broken a trust that wasn’t yours to break—and for what? So your dog could come to brunch? The bottom line is that pets are not more important than people, so if there is an issue, it’s the dog that needs to leave most of the time.

The gray areas (because of course there are gray areas)

Etiquette is never a clean binary, so here are the nuances.

• Location: An outdoor backyard barbecue is a fundamentally different situation than a dinner party inside someone’s home. Outdoor spaces offer more room, more exits for a stressed dog and, generally, a more casual atmosphere. Indoor gatherings where people are eating, sitting on furniture and possibly wearing things they care about are a much higher-stakes environment to introduce an uninvited dog into.
• Other animals: Even dogs that get along fine individually can escalate around one another in unfamiliar settings. If you haven’t specifically been told dogs are welcome—and confirmed that the other guests’ dogs are also going to be there—do not assume.
• Size and temperament: A well-trained large dog can be more appropriate in a given setting than an anxious, naughty small dog. Small doesn’t mean “harmless,” and big doesn’t mean “trouble.” What matters is actual behavior. A puppy who eats birthday cake off the table is a problem regardless of how cute he is. And I cannot stress this enough.
• Your dog’s comfort: If your dog is anxious, reactive or newly arrived and still figuring out the world, bringing it into a chaotic social situation is not a treat for them. It is a bad day. And I say this as someone whose elderly dog considers a stone lawn ornament a mortal threat.

So what should you do?

The answer, almost always, is: Ask. “Hey, is it OK if I bring my dog?” takes 30 seconds. It spares the host an awkward conversation, and it spares you the social fallout of being the person who showed up with an uninvited animal and a puppy’s worth of chaos. If you have to wonder whether the dog is welcome, it probably isn’t. An explicit invitation means someone said, “Bring your dog!” It does not mean that you interpreted the invitation as implicitly dog-inclusive because you really wanted to bring your dog.

And if you’re still not sure, here are some handy guidelines:

• If the event is a dinner party, a wedding, a museum, a grocery store or anywhere fancy food is involved: Leave the dog at home.
• If the event is outdoors, casual and explicitly dog-friendly, bring the dog, clean up after the dog and keep the dog under control.
• If you have a legitimate service animal: Go everywhere. That is your legal right.
• If you have an emotional support animal you’ve been presenting as a service dog because you bought a vest online, please stop. Much like sharing someone else’s news before they’ve had a chance to, it feels harmless until it isn’t.
• And if you’re considering showing up to a child’s birthday party with an uninvited puppy and then staying for the entire party, don’t.

The verdict

Is it rude to bring your dog somewhere it wasn’t explicitly invited?

Yes. Usually.

Not because dogs are bad, not because loving your dog is wrong and not because the rest of us are joyless curmudgeons who have never experienced the specific pleasure of a dog flopping its entire body across your lap. We have. We get it.

But bringing your dog somewhere it doesn’t belong—and then acting like anyone who objects is the problem—is a specific and increasingly common form of self-absorption. It’s the assumption that your affection for your animal supersedes everyone else’s right to celebrate a birthday without managing someone else’s puppy or simply attend an event without navigating the social, physical and sanitary consequences of a dog they didn’t agree to.

Stormy is the light of my life. She would also be a nightmare at a third-grade birthday party.

So she stays home. She prefers the couch anyway.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of etiquette stories that help readers navigate communication in a changing world. We regularly cover topics such as the best messages to send for any occasion, polite habits that aren’t as polite as they seem, email and texting etiquette, business etiquette, tipping etiquette, travel etiquette and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• American Pet Products Association: “2025 State of the Industry Report”
• American Pet Products Association: “2025 Dog & Cat Report”
• Animal Legal & Historical Center, Michigan State University: “FAQ: Dogs in Restaurants”
• PLoS ONE: “Obstacles to inclusion and threats to civil rights: An integrative review of the social experiences of service dog partners in the United States”
• Super Lawyers: “Faking a Service Animal Status Is Illegal”
• MKP Law Group: “25+ Important Dog Bite Statistics & Bites by Breed for 2026”
• Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities: “Fake Service Dogs: The Growing Problem and Its Impact”

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Fortune’s writing has largely been influenced by a childhood spent seaside in Sydney, Australia, and in Barry’s Bay, a lakefront Ontario town where Every Summer After and One Golden Summer take place. “There’s something magical about setting stories in a real place, with real texture,” she says. “It makes it feel like you’re actually there.”

This vibe is something that truly resonates with Fortune’s readers. Her beach reads have sold 4.7 million copies and have been translated into 35 languages in more than 100 countries and territories. Her latest novel, Our Perfect Storm, continues the theme of a love story that unfolds by the water. But this time, Fortune trades in tranquil lakeside romance for Tofino, a surfer’s paradise on Canada’s rugged west coast, which adds to the drama.

Following that tidal wave of activity, Fortune’s debut novel has been adapted into an Amazon Prime series, Every Year After, which starts June 10 and stars Matt Cornett (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series) and Sadie Soverall (Saltburn). An adaptation of This Summer Will Be Different is filming this summer, while plans for bringing her other titles to the small screen are also underway.

We caught up with Fortune in the middle of her book tour to dish on romance, writing and the undeniable pull of the water.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Reader’s Digest: What is it about being by the water that makes it an ideal setting for your books?

Carley Fortune: I don’t intentionally look for settings by the water; these are the places that I personally love and am drawn to. I grew up by Barry’s Bay and near the beach in Australia. When I’m writing, I’m always envisioning this element of water; it’s so epic and grounding to be near the water.

Reader’s Digest: Those beautiful backdrops appear to be in sharp contrast to the heartache that your characters experience. Do you view nature as a type of healing element or cure-all?

Carley Fortune: I love nature. When I started writing as a child, I loved writing about nature the most. I feel like being surrounded by nature is such a good way to show how small our problems can be in the grand scheme of things.

Reader’s Digest: How do you develop the backstories of your characters? Is a sense of inner turmoil a must-have trait?

Carley Fortune: I always want to write characters who are a little bit messy, flawed people like we all are. I’m not drawn to characters in books or films who are perfect. I want to be on a journey with my characters, and I’m drawn to their rough edges.

Reader’s Digest: Let’s talk about Our Perfect Storm. How did writing this book challenge you as a storyteller?

Carley Fortune: It was such a pleasure to write this book right from the start. The prologue told from 8-year-old Frankie’s POV felt like something special; it taught me so much about adult Frankie. I wanted the story to have a different tone, and the challenge was trying to bring what was in my mind onto the page.

Reader’s Digest: What’s it like to see your books go from page to screen?

Carley Fortune: When I wrote Every Summer After, I wrote it for myself. I didn’t set out to publish it because I wanted to show myself that I could write a novel. Now, seeing that book coming out as a TV series is beyond something I would ever have dreamed. The showrunner, Amy B. Harris, has done an incredible job of preserving the heart and soul of Every Summer After. This Summer Will Be Different is a 10-episode series that will be shooting in Toronto and Prince Edward Island, a place that’s another dream of mine.

Reader’s Digest: How involved are you in this process?

Carley Fortune: As executive producer, I feel it’s my job to make sure each adaptation honors the spirit of my books. Adapting is not just about putting a book on screen; lots of changes need to happen. Romance has a clear ending in my books, and my job is to ensure that the fans of the novel, when they see the adaptation, they are still in that world, that it feels like the book. And for me, I am looking to see if this is a great film, is this something that I would want to see?

Reader’s Digest: Any big changes from the books that readers should expect?

Carley Fortune: Every Year After has some changes in the script, but the most important parts are true to the book. Some of my favorite moments are actually straight from the film; the book is told from Percy’s POV, but in the TV series, we get to spend some time with Sam and Charlie. We get to see their relationship as brothers in a whole new way.

Reader’s Digest: Any other books in development?

Carley Fortune: One Golden Summer, which is Charlie’s love story, is also with Amazon. I hope that the storyline will be worked into the second season of Every Year After. Meet Me at the Lake is in development with Archewell Productions and Netflix, which is revising the script right now. Nothing is happening yet with One Perfect Summer. But I think fans will love what we’ve done so far. Everyone who’s worked on these shows is very proud.

Reader’s Digest: What are you working on next?

Carley Fortune: I just handed in the first draft of my sixth novel.

Reader’s Digest: That must be a lot of pressure, turning in a new book each year.

Carley Fortune: Writing under pressure is one thing. But as things have been picking up with the adaptations, writing a book a year has become more and more challenging. But it’s what I love the most. It brings me so much fulfillment. One of my challenges is finding time and space to focus.

Reader’s Digest: Before you head out to your next tour stop, I’d love to ask you a few quick questions in our lightning round. What’s your favorite romantic trope?

Carley Fortune: Friends-to-lovers and second-chance romances. But tropes aren’t what I think about when brainstorming; setting and characters come first.

Reader’s Digest: What book are you reading now?

Carley Fortune: How to Survive a Bear Attack: A Memoir by Claire Cameron. It’s about a woman diagnosed with skin cancer who becomes obsessed with a bear attack in Algonquin Park. It’s about nature and wilderness in Canada, and I absolutely love it.

Reader’s Digest: What’s your favorite place in the world?

Carley Fortune: Barry’s Bay. That’s where I feel like myself.

Reader’s Digest: What’s the last book that made you cry?

Carley Fortune: Heart the Lover by Lily King

Reader’s Digest: Which book do you recommend more often than others?

Carley Fortune: Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

Reader’s Digest: What’s your ideal reading spot?

Carley Fortune: On the dock, on the lake

Carley Fortune’s new book, Our Perfect Storm, is available now.

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A new report from the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) has found that nearly 1 in 5 Americans may be exposed to potentially dangerous levels of nitrates in their tap water, which could increase the risk of certain health problems. That sounds scary, but I talked to Celina Phillipson, a PhD candidate who researches drinking water at the University of California Irvine, and Daniele Lantagne, PhD, a research professor at Tufts University who focuses on water and sanitation, to learn more about the risks.

Read on to learn what experts have to say about the latest news, and what it means for you and your family.

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What are nitrates?

Nitrate (NO3) is a compound consisting of nitrogen and oxygen. Nitrate occurs naturally in the air, soil and water, and humans and animals need it for survival. It’s also used in industry and agriculture. In excess, nitrate is a contaminant, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets limits on the acceptable levels of nitrates in drinking water.

What, exactly, did the study find?

The EWG analyzed nitrate levels in drinking water systems across the country between 2021 and 2023. The research found that the drinking water delivered to 62.1 million people (18% of the U.S. population) had nitrate levels of 3 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or higher at least once during that three-year period. At those levels, the EWG says, the risk of certain cancers and birth defects increases.

The 3 mg/L threshold is much lower than the 10 mg/L maximum contaminant level for both tap water and bottled water established by the EPA in 1991. That standard came from a 1962 U.S. Public Health Service recommendation, which sought to protect infants from a potentially fatal condition called “blue baby syndrome” caused by ingesting too much nitrate.

The data was gathered from the EWG’s own Tap Water Database and represented more than 6,100 different water systems. As part of its analysis, the EWG also created a map to identify and track communities with water systems that have high levels of nitrate.

How does nitrate get into the water supply?

Nitrates get into our drinking water from agricultural fertilizer runoff and animal manure, leaking septic systems, sewage, wastewater treatment plant discharge and urban stormwater runoff. “These pollutants can seep into groundwater or wash into rivers and reservoirs, especially after rain or irrigation,” Phillipson says.

The EWG analysis says climate change is making this worse, as weather conditions in many parts of the country ping-pong between long periods of drought and severe storms with heavy rainfall.

While some nitrates do occur naturally as part of the nitrogen cycle, human activity is the primary cause here. “Scientists and health agencies consider levels about 3 mg/L unlikely to occur naturally in drinking water and more indicative of human-caused contamination,” Phillipson says.

Where in the U.S. are nitrate levels highest?

The largest clusters of water systems with elevated nitrate levels are scattered across different geographic regions, but most of them have one thing in common: They’re in top agricultural states. The highest levels of nitrates are found in California, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Washington, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Arizona and Wisconsin.

But it’s not all in farming communities. There are also clusters around larger metropolitan areas. Take Pennsylvania, for example. It has a lot of agriculture, but the biggest concentration of elevated nitrate levels is in the area around Philadelphia. On the other side of the country, in Washington, the Puget Sound Basin has the most clusters of elevated nitrate levels. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, this region is vulnerable to water pollution because of the use of shallow wells in aquifers and high concentrations of urban, industrial and agricultural land use.

In other states, including Nebraska, Wisconsin, Oklahoma and Kansas, water supplies with elevated levels are more consistently spread across the entire state rather than in isolated bubbles and high-population areas. These states also have more water systems with nitrate levels at or exceeding 10 mg/L.

Are nitrates really dangerous?

Prior research has shown a correlation between elevated nitrate levels in drinking water and an increased risk of certain cancers. That means there’s an association between the two, not a cause-and-effect relationship. But the science is not yet conclusive. Some studies have found an association after exposure to nitrates in drinking water, while others have found little or no association, Lantagne says. “The evidence on long-term cancers is emerging.”

“Additionally, and very importantly, exposure to nitrates in drinking water is confounded by other risk factors, such as exposure to agricultural products or eating a diet high in red meat, which are known cancer risks,” she says. “There is not definitive evidence nitrates in water are the causative agent in cancer, and there is no known mechanistic pathway for nitrates and cancer.”

More recent research indicates the current 10 mg/L limit is too high, Phillipson says, with some (including the EWG analysis) suggesting links to birth defects and certain cancers at levels of 5 mg/L or lower. And some people may be more at risk than others. “Nitrates in the drinking water are of particular concern to vulnerable populations, such as infants under 6 months old, pregnant people and people with underlying metabolic or cardiovascular conditions,” Phillipson says.

Do any water filters get rid of nitrates?

Some do, but some don’t. Your basic pitcher filter won’t cut it, and some of the most common ways of ridding water of contaminants won’t help for nitrates. Activated charcoal doesn’t work. Neither does boiling, which makes it worse. “Boiling should be avoided, as it can concentrate the nitrates,” Lantagne says.

Because nitrates are dissolved in water, high-quality reverse osmosis or ion exchange systems or distillation are needed, both experts say. These can all vary in price, depending on the product.

What can you do if your water has high nitrate levels?

The only way to tell if your water has elevated nitrate levels is to have it tested, the experts say. It’s odorless, colorless and tasteless, so you won’t know it’s there. People using private wells should have their water tested by an accredited lab, Phillipson says. Those who are served by a public water system can find their system’s Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), which is an annual drinking water quality report, through the EPA’s CCR database.

“If your water is found to be above 10 mg/L, cease usage of the water for infant formula, drinking or cooking, and purchase bottled water,” Phillipson says. For levels above 3 mg/L, she recommends using a filter system that can filter nitrates.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Celina Phillipson, MS, PhD candidate in environmental health sciences at UC Irvine Joe C. Wen School of Population and Public Health; email interview, May 9, 2026
• Daniele Lantagne, PhD, research professor at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Feinstein International Center, at Tufts University; email interview, May 8, 2026
• Environmental Working Group: “Drinking water of almost 1 in 5 Americans contains nitrates linked to cancer and birth defects”
• Environmental Working Group: “Map: Community water systems with elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water, 2021–2023”
• Environmental Protection Agency: “What is nitrate?”
• Environmental Protection Agency: “National Primary Drinking Water Regulations”
• U.S. Geological Survey: “Water Resources of Washington State: Predicting Ground-Water Vulnerability to Nitrate in the Puget Sound Basin”
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “What Are U.S. Standards and Regulations for Nitrates and Nitrites Exposure?”
• Environmental and Occupational Health: “Drinking-water nitrate and cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis”
• Public Health: “Long-term cancer and overall mortality associated with drinking water nitrate in the United States”
• Grist: “Research casts doubt on EPA drinking water standard”
• Environmental Protection Agency: “Safe Drinking Water Act: Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR)”

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Why the Water in Your House Smells Funny

How to Clean a Water Bottle the Right Way

The post A New Report Finds 1 in 5 Americans May Be Drinking Unsafe Tap Water—Just How Worried Should You Be? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Well, it turns out that there’s one big mistake I’ve been making when it comes to black clothing, and there’s a good chance you’re doing it too. I spoke with Steve Collins, a third-generation dry cleaner at Sig Samuels Dry Cleaners in Atlanta, to learn the ins and outs of black fabric care. Interested? Read on to find out how to keep your black shirts, pants and dresses fade-free and fresh.

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What is the No. 1 mistake people make with black clothes?

The big laundry misstep is washing black clothes in water that’s too hot. “Hot water is your enemy,” Collins says. “Heat and deep, rich colors—especially blacks—do not mix.”

While it might seem like heat would help eliminate stains and odors, Collins says it’s not the way to go if you want to protect the longevity and vibrancy of the fibers.

Why do these high temperatures pose such a problem?

Collins says high temperatures pull the dye out of the fabric. Additionally, as clothes rub against one another in the drum, they create friction that weakens the fibers. “The clothes just take a beating,” he says. Repeated washing will eventually break down the color and fade the item.

Not only that, but hard water can leave a residue, and detergents often have chemicals meant to brighten and lighten. If you’re mixing loads, this can contribute to a faded look.

What temperature should you use for black items?

Cold water is the way to go, according to Collins. In fact, he says even non-black clothing should be washed on a cold cycle. “I try to wash everything in cold,” he says.

His only exceptions? Sheets and other bedding, because of how often they get used and how much dirt and oil buildup accumulates, and when he needs to activate stain removers like oxygen bleaches, which tend to do better in warmer water.

Should you wash like colors together?

Yes, the old laundry adage is true, and it’s one Collins follows religiously: You should always wash like colors together. “Color-coordinate your washes,” he says. It can help reduce dye transfer, and it’s a good way to organize your laundry.

“I break up clothes into different categories,” Collins says. He puts all darks like black together, saturated colors like purple and red together, and then separates out lighter colors. He’ll also run a load with just khakis and tans, one with whites, and one with lighter colors. He also tries to separate each color by fabric type so that he’s not mixing polyester athletic wear with cotton shirts; this can help reduce friction.

Another pro tip: Detergent is a big part of the equation for black clothes. Collins often uses Woolite, a delicate detergent. “It’s great for delicates and things with deep, rich colors,” he says.

Should black clothes stay out of the dryer?

Not necessarily, but what applies to the washing machine also applies to the dryer: Avoid heat. “Drying at high temperatures can set in stains and contribute to loss of color,” he says. Hanging clothes to dry is one option, although he acknowledges that this often produces stiff wrinkles that can be hard to iron out.

His favorite way to dry black items is to use the lowest setting on the dryer. It can help items retain their color and prevent creases, as well as prevent garment shrinkage.

What will keep your black items perfectly black?

Now that you know the mistake you might have been making, it’s easy to correct with a streamlined routine. To keep black items perfectly black, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose a low-moisture, mild detergent, and use a small amount. Too much detergent can leave a residue.
2. Wash the item in cold water with other black items on a delicate cycle, separating by fabric type if possible.
3. Dry on the lowest setting your machine offers, or hang-dry if you are concerned about possible shrinkage.

And when in doubt, refer to the garment’s label. “I am a stickler for a label,” Collins says. “They are put in there to tell people at home, as well as professionals, how a garment should be handled.”

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Source:

• Steve Collins, co-owner of Atlanta-based Sig Samuels Dry Cleaners; interviewed, May 2026

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The post This Is the No. 1 Mistake You’re Making with Your Black Clothing appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I’m hardly alone in feeling the stress of constant connectivity, especially when it comes to work and that slippery habit that conditions us to respond, Pavlovian-style, to every ding, buzz and vibration from all of our different devices. According to the 2026 NAMI-Ipsos Workplace Mental Health Poll, which surveyed adults employed full-time at companies with more than 100 employees, 53% reported suffering job burnout, while 39% said they felt so overwhelmed at work that it interfered with their ability to do their jobs.

With such unsettling levels of work-related stress, something has to give, and more and more people are embracing a new coping mechanism called “deadzoning.” While the term may sound scary, the travel trend is actually all about creating a healthy, total reset. I talked to three travel experts who understand the need for a digital unwinding, and came up with some ideas for the perfect deadzoning vacations.

Read on to find out exactly what deadzoning is and how incorporating it into your downtime—even after returning from vacation—could give you a major mental boost.

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The always-on vacation

How many times have you finally scheduled a much-needed vacation, but there’s some looming project, deadline or other type of workplace emergency hanging over your head (and your holiday)? Americans, it seems, live to work rather than the other way around. In fact, according to a recent Expedia Vacation Deprivation Report, we receive an average of just 12 vacation days per year, the fewest of any country surveyed. Even more striking, a 2025 FlexJobs survey of 3,000 U.S. workers found that 23% didn’t take even a single vacation day the previous year.

Why aren’t some workers taking advantage of their hard-earned time off? The FlexJobs report notes that 43% cited overwhelming workloads, while 30% said they were afraid of falling behind at the workplace. The sad end result is that when people do manage to carve out some downtime, the state of their vacations is anything but restful. They’re away but not truly away, still monitoring all those work emails, occasionally hopping on Slack for quick updates or even stepping away from dinner with loved ones to field work calls. Technology has made it so our vacations are no longer true escapes from life’s daily grind.

The deadzoning difference

Deadzoning means unplugging while on holiday by going off-grid or semi-off-grid in order to mentally disconnect from all those digital distractions, from work demands and texts to social media and doomscrolling. The goal is to intentionally remove yourself from the relentless cognitive demand that digital life creates.

“We’re seeing more guests of all ages take advantage of our remote location and truly unplug while they stay with us,” says Will Hensley, general manager of The Meadows on Rock Creek, a guest ranch with limited cell service set on 2,000 acres in western Montana. “In daily life, people feel overstimulated and constantly connected, and there’s something restorative about stepping away from the noise and notifications and settling into the rhythm of Montana.” Real-life connection happens through conversations around the fire or afternoons in the river or saddle. After all, Hensley jokes, “You can’t hold your phone when you’re fly-fishing or horseback riding!”

A recent study in the journal BMC Medical Education explored what happened when participants spent two weeks on refreshing digital detoxes such as these, cutting back on screen time and replacing it with more offline activities. The results showed a broad range of benefits that people could actually feel and researchers could measure, including lower stress and anxiety, better emotional balance, a greater sense of control and even healthier heart-rate variability and reduced inflammation.

Laura Coburn, director of serenity at Inns of Aurora—a property in New York’s Finger Lakes that has a strict no-phone policy in the spa and healing center—explains that “we are built to find balance, and the body/mind is constantly seeking equilibrium. [That] becomes especially clear when we give ourselves space to truly disconnect.”

How to deadzone on your next vacation

What deadzoning looks like can vary from person to person, and it really doesn’t have to mean disappearing completely. Whether you want to go fully unreachable or just keep your phone on airplane mode except during designated check-in times, the goal is ultimately the same: Intentionally create enough mental space to actually feel away.

Ahead are tips for building your own deadzoning plan.

Pick a destination that makes unplugging easier

Sometimes staying offline is a lot easier said than done, which is why environment matters so much. It’s far easier to disconnect when your surroundings encourage it. Remote destinations with limited or even nonexistent phone service or Wi-Fi access can naturally make it easier to create digital distance. I once took the Andean Explorer, a Belmond train, across Peru. There was no Wi-Fi available on this route through the rugged Andes, and I connected with my fellow passengers in a way we wouldn’t have if our phones worked as more than just cameras.

Decide how dead your deadzone really will be

Not every deadzone needs to be total isolation, though it certainly can be. For some travelers, deadzoning may simply mean not reading the news or temporarily deleting work apps for a week, while others may choose to use their phones only for maps, reservations or other travel tools.

Set expectations before you leave

People often struggle with deadzoning because they feel guilty about not being instantly available if someone needs them back home. When I switched my phone to airplane mode in Switzerland, I let my partner know that I’d be somewhat unreachable but would still check texts occasionally.

Before your trip, set boundaries by reminding co-workers, friends and family what your availability will actually look like. For example, tell colleagues you won’t be checking email at all, or let friends know that you will be taking a break from all social media and may not respond to DMs.

Make your phone harder to reach

People often don’t consciously decide to sit and scroll for hours, but it’s easy to do. Creating friction can help break the habit. Deleting social media apps before a trip and logging out of accounts like work email are simple ways to start. Switching your phone to grayscale can also make it less visually tempting.

You can even just leave the phone and all its enticements in your hotel room, opting to go analog with a real camera and good book instead. For those who really don’t trust themselves, there are also apps and devices that restrict phones after you hit a certain screen-time limit.

Keep one emergency lane open

Unfortunately, true emergencies can arise, so it’s worth planning what accessibility to you will look like ahead of time. Maybe you check texts and call family only at designated times. You also might carry a notification-free phone for safety and GPS, or share the hotel number and your itinerary with trusted loved ones.

Replace screen time with travel rituals

Deadzoning can get you out and about to explore your surroundings, giving your brain offline dopamine hits. Rather than scrolling, take a phone-free stroll without headphones, journal at a local cafe or spend an afternoon learning a new skill related to the location.

Don’t worry about documenting everything in real time

Part of the pleasure of travel is sharing your photos with everyone back home, but deadzoning is stepping away from the pressure to constantly narrate your trip on social media. Try waiting until after the vacation is over to post your highlights. Many times, removing the need to create personal content leads to a much deeper sense of immersion in the actual experience.

Change it up

There’s no such thing as deadzone perfection, so don’t be afraid to tweak your plan as you go, and experiment with what works best for you. Perhaps one phone-free afternoon is restorative enough, or maybe avoiding social media during the day or going the week without looking at work emails makes the biggest difference. Remember, ultimately the whole point of deadzoning on vacation is to reduce connectivity so you can really remember and experience what true rest actually feels like.

Destinations to disconnect

Properties are increasingly catering to those who want to digitally detox. At Castle Hot Springs in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, for example, cell service is minimal and Wi-Fi is available in just a few select areas. Still, says general manager Kevin Maguire, the property emphasizes mindfulness around connectivity: “Our Wi-Fi password, ‘RUsureUwant2,’ encourages guests to think consciously before signing in.”

From places that let travelers unplug in more controlled ways to Earth’s farthest disconnected corners, here are some destinations to inspire your next deadzone trip.

True off-grid deadzones

Some places really are deadzones. No phones, no Wi-Fi, no nothing—just immersive travel experiences that might make you forget your digital life altogether.

• Local Living Ecuador–Amazon Jungle: This experience takes travelers deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon, where they stay with an Indigenous community and have no access to Wi-Fi or cell service.
• Nat Hab’s Alaska Bear Camp: Reachable by bush plane and set amid 4 million acres of protected landscape in Lake Clark National Park, this location prompts guests to swap doomscrolling for wild brown bear viewing and other outdoorsy activities.
• Nordenskiöld Lodge: Accessible only by boat, snowmobile or dogsled, the Arctic expedition outfit Basecamp Explorer’s four-guest-room lodge in Svalbard, Norway, is the northernmost commercial cabin in the world.
• Norrøna Canvas Telemark: Lodgers at this solar-powered yurt retreat in the Telemark highlands, Norway, forgo Wi-Fi and TVs for hiking and biking. Instead of digital distractions, there are only lakes, trails, saunas and bonfires.
• Kitirua Plains Lodge: This private conservancy bordering Amboseli National Park in Kenya is an idyllic off-grid safari experience, featuring stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, game drives and time spent with the local Maasai community.

Lock-away-your-phone deadzones

These places provide a middle ground. Travelers can stash their phones while visiting—without getting too far off the beaten trail.

• Six Senses La Sagesse: This resort in Grenada has a new Digital Detox Program, where guests place their devices in Yondr boxes during communal meals and use conversation cards to connect. Phone-free excursions, board games and storybooks complete the analog experience.
• Ecoventura: Inspired by HBO’s The White Lotus, these bespoke mega-yacht expeditions in the Galápagos Islands offer technology disconnection bags for travelers who want to focus on swimming with sea turtles and waddling alongside blue-footed boobies instead of the outside world.
• Le Barth Villas: Travelers to this destination on the island of St. Barts can seal electronics inside pouches, and Wi-Fi and TVs are disabled throughout the villas. The property even provides a concierge-only phone that’s not equipped with internet access or apps.

Deadzone-lite experiences

Keep your phones, but know that Wi-Fi and cell service are limited and analog activities are encouraged.

• The Point: Built for the Rockefellers in the 1930s, this 11-room hotel in Upper Saranac Lake, New York, limits Wi-Fi to guest rooms only, and cell service is minimal on the 75-acre property. Foraging, canoeing and a weekly black-tie evening encourage human connection.
• Paintrock Canyon Ranch by Ranchlands: The roughly 80,000-acre property at the base of the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming is nearly devoid of cell service. Put away devices for expert-led workshops in roping, blacksmithing, painting and other hands-on experiences.
• Las Torres Patagonia: At this family-owned hotel in Chilean Patagonia, there’s limited Wi-Fi beyond the hotel doors. In exchange, you get sweeping landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park and hikes beneath the Las Torres and Los Cuernos Mountains.
• Tides to Pines by Casago: This vacation-rental property-management company in Maine has a property on Matinicus Isle, 22 miles offshore. With spotty cellphone service and few distractions, it’s a great place for a deadzone reset.
• Huttopia: Operating nine rustic destinations across the U.S. and Canada—including the Berkshires in Massachusetts; Paradise Springs in California; and Les Deux Lacs-Laurentides in Quebec—Huttopia’s properties do not have Wi-Fi outside the lodges and have limited cell service elsewhere.
• Civana Wellness Resort & Spa: This property in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert is launching its Do Not Disturb initiative this summer, featuring offline communal conversation tables, social hours centered on in-person connection, intention-setting cards and a craft corner designed for screen-free downtime.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Will Hensley, general manager at The Meadows on Rock Creek; email interview, May 2026
• Laura Coburn, spa director and director of serenity at Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa in New York; email interview, May 2026
• Kevin Maguire, general manager at Castle Hot Springs; email interview, May 2026
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: “2026 NAMI-Ipsos Workplace Mental Health Poll”
• Expedia: “Expedia Report Finds Americans Win the Gold Medal for Taking Fewest Vacation Days in the World”
• BMC Medical Education: “From screens to serenity: evaluating the effects of digital detox on mental and psychological health”

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The post Burned Out and Looking to Truly Disconnect? It’s Time to Try Deadzoning appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Ken Warren, a mechanical professional engineer and assistant director of aviation facilities and infrastructure at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, knows firsthand the difficulties of managing passenger comfort: “Being a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) engineer for an airport requires you to understand the type of space you’re looking at, the situations you need to apply HVAC techniques to in order to provide the best air quality and the best delivery for the public—passengers and workers—so everyone has the best chance to be comfortable.”

In other words, it’s not as simple as setting the thermostat at home. Ahead, Warren breaks down the real reasons why it always seems so frosty on the way to your flight. Plus, Clint Henderson, travel expert and spokesperson for The Points Guy, explains why you should definitely add a sweater when you pack your suitcase.

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Just how chilly are airports?

Well, it depends. “It seems like such an easy question: Why can’t the air just be a certain temperature inside an airport?” Warren says. “But it’s a serious challenge.”

The professional organization ASHRAE is the gold standard for airport HVAC systems design, and Warren says it recommends a broad temperature range of 70 to 75 degrees. But that’s not the whole story. “Typically, you want to be in that 70- to 72-degree range, which is optimum year-round, but you may not be able to get there” because of energy codes and other constraints, he says.

With moderate temps like that, it’s pretty clear that HVAC temperature settings alone are probably not the reason you’re feeling cold at the airport. Here’s what’s really going on.

Why do airports always feel so cold?

Again, it depends. It’s important to understand that thermal comfort (aka how cold or hot you feel) relies on multiple factors, including the air temperature, radiant temperature, humidity and air velocity, as well as personal characteristics like how much clothing you’re wearing and your metabolic rate.

System designers and facilities managers like Warren can only control for the first four, and they have to balance passenger comfort with indoor air quality and other logistical issues. Let’s dig into those reasons below.

Airports are pressurized

Warren says to think of an airport as a big, blown-up balloon. To maintain good indoor air quality, HVAC systems have to continuously push a little bit of air outside to keep exhaust from idling planes and vehicles from being drawn inside the building. (“There’s a tremendous amount of doors in and around an international airport,” Warren says.)

Maintaining this outward air movement, aka “positive pressure,” is challenging because there are so many different spaces in an airport, from narrow corridors and jet bridges to giant open malls and restaurants. You’re going to get air currents and imbalances, and that’s what people notice. “You feel the wind upon your skin,” Warren says.

In other words, it’s the breeze, not an AC cranked low, making you shiver. “The deviations of all these spaces, and the pressurization, is probably what causes folks to complain about airports being on the cool side,” Warren says. “It’s probably not temperature but airflow.”

Air handlers deliver very cold, high-velocity air

Did you know that HVAC systems in cooling mode deliver air at around 55 degrees? Yep, and not just at the airport. Warren says even office buildings have the same setup. The air comes out super cold, then hugs the wall and mixes with the existing air to eventually get to the desired 70 or 72 degrees when it hits your head and shoulders.

But large spaces often require an even colder air supply, and they need a little extra oomph to get it mixed. “In a lot of our large spaces, we use extremely high-velocity air,” Warren says.

He gives an example: “You ever been in a basketball arena and go, ‘Wow, that feels cool?’ And then it goes away, and you’re like, ‘What was that?'” Warren asks. “Well, that was probably the HVAC system that just had a little jet of cold air because it was in cooling mode, and you just happened to be standing there, and it was like 40 or 50 feet away.” If you catch that breeze in an airport, you’re going to feel it.

Airports are hard to heat

“Heating is extremely difficult,” Warren says. “It’s really hard to deliver warm air down low.” He says cold air “loves to go and travel” (remember the basketball arena), but warm air just wants to stop. “It’s lazy. It’s like, ‘Oh, I’m so nice and warm,'” Warren says. “I don’t want to go that far.”

Facilities managers have to account for this by adjusting the air velocity, and sometimes it’s just plain difficult. “You want to throw that warm air a long ways,” he says, especially in larger areas of the airport. “Good luck.”

Energy efficiency takes precedence

Sea-Tac Airport has the largest centralized heating and cooling plant in the Northwest, and the airport’s electricity bills can be $1 million a month. “We do everything that we can to save as much energy as possible,” Warren says.

Airports are transitory spaces

Unless your flight has a massive delay, airports are what Warren and other experts call “transitory spaces.” Passengers are expected to be there for a relatively short amount of time—even if those security lines are long—so comfort can take a back seat to other concerns.

“One of the things that we consider when we do design work, and we design our systems for, is that in the fall, winter and spring, people are bringing their coats with them because they are traveling,” Warren says. “So yeah, it might be a little bit cold, but you should be able to layer up and put your clothes on.”

He knows that’s not the answer that people want to hear, but remember that million-dollar energy bill! “If we observe our customers, and they’re all traveling with coats, you bet we’re going to try to reduce our temperature a little bit to save money on energy bills.”

What are some tips for warming up in a cold airport?

Henderson, from The Points Guy, logs 150,000 miles a year—so he knows all about chilly airports. Luckily, you don’t have to feel like you’re waiting for your flight in a freezer. Here are some of his best tips to warm up while you wait to fly:

• Wear layers: Always have layers! Even if you are traveling somewhere hot, you should bring a sweater and a large scarf. This is important on planes too, where it can get cold quite easily.
• Avoid vents and fans: Pick a spot where there is no blowing air from vents and fans.
• Stay away from doorways and jet bridges: These areas and entryways are often kept colder.
• Look for seats near restaurants or at a crowded gate: These are spots where the air is usually warmer.
• Pick a seat on carpet: Areas with tile and other hard surfaces tend to be cooler than carpeted areas.

Additional reporting by Ally Childress.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Ken Warren, assistant director of aviation facilities and infrastructure at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport; phone interview, May 11, 2026
• Clint Henderson, travel expert with The Points Guy; interviewed, April 2026
• ASHRAE: “Dispelling Thermal Comfort Myths, Part 1”

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The post This Is the Real Reason You’re Always Freezing at the Airport appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I wish I could say I would handle this gracefully. I would not. I would gasp. I would point. I would probably screech, “Excuse me?!” to a bird. But apparently, science has found a way to help us protect our beach snacks from avian beggars, and it is so deeply silly that I almost can’t believe it works. But it’s true: Researchers studying herring gulls found a trick that can make some birds slower to approach and less likely to peck.

In other words, the beach bully circling your chips may be easier to deter than you’d think. And while silly, the tactic is definitely less ridiculous than tripping over your flip-flops as you yell “Mine!” at a gull. Ready to repel those birds and have some fun at the same time? Keep reading.

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What’s the secret to warding off seagulls at the beach?

The secret is to make your food container look like it has eyes. I know! It sounds like advice from someone who has spent too much time in the sun, but there is real research behind it.

In a study published in Ecology and Evolution, researchers tested herring gulls in coastal towns in Cornwall, England, by placing two closed takeout boxes on the ground: one plain and one with a pair of googly eyes on each exposed surface. The boxes were weighted with rocks, not filled with food, and the researchers watched to see which one the gulls approached and pecked first.

Of the gulls that pecked a box within five minutes, only 22% chose the box with eyes, compared with 78% that went for the plain one. The eye-covered boxes also bought a little time: Gulls took about 19 seconds longer, on average, to peck them. That means the ideal beach setup may not be a cooler, towel and novel. It may be a cooler, towel, novel and a takeout box that looks like it has seen things.

Does this actually work?

Yes, the fake-eyes trick does appear to work on some gulls. The reason has to do with how many animals respond to eyes. Direct eye contact can signal attention, threat or aggression. For an animal trying to decide whether it is safe to approach food, the feeling of being watched can be enough to make it hesitate.

That lines up with earlier research on gulls and the human gaze. In a 2019 Biology Letters study, researchers found that herring gulls took longer to approach food when a person was looking directly at them than when the person was looking away. The eye trick also fits into a bigger pattern. Eye-like markings, or eyespots, show up in nature on insects, fish and amphibians, where they may help scare off predators or make an animal seem more dangerous than it really is.

One especially silly example involves cattle in Botswana. In a 2020 Communications Biology study, researchers painted artificial eyespots on the backsides of some cattle, painted crosses on others and left another group unmarked. During the study, predators killed 19 cattle total—but none of the cattle painted with eyespots were killed. You read that right. The same broad concept that may help protect your fries has also been tested on cow butts. Science contains multitudes.

How can you use this trick at the beach this summer?

It’s easy: Just put some obvious eye-like markings on your food container, especially on the side or top a gull would see as it approaches.

The study tested multiple eye-like stimuli, but the DIY version is delightfully low-tech. Draw two big eyes on the lid with a marker. Stick on oversized googly eyes before you leave the house. Tape a little paper face to the top of your snack container if you are feeling both crafty and deeply committed to your fries.

The key is visibility. Tiny tasteful dots will not cut it. You want a gull to clock those eyes before it gets close enough to decide your lunch looks like its lunch. Put the eyes on the outer packaging, not directly on your food. Make them large, high-contrast and easy to see. Use nontoxic markers or stickers. Just don’t get too cocky. Some gulls simply do not respect the arts.

Do you still need to shoo seagulls away?

Yes, you may still need to shoo gulls away, especially if you are dealing with a particularly bold bird. In the Ecology and Evolution study, some gulls seemed to stay wary of the eye-marked boxes, while others got over it pretty quickly—which means the trick may work best as part of a larger “please leave my fries alone” strategy, not your only line of defense.

For example, other research suggests that sound can help too. In another Biology Letters study, researchers placed a closed container of chips (aka fries) near herring gulls and played different sounds once the birds approached. Nearly half of the gulls exposed to a shouting male voice flew away within a minute, while only 15% exposed to the same words spoken calmly flew away.

So if a gull is giving your lunch the hard stare, try a layered approach: Keep eye contact, say something firm and loud, and use your extremely fashionable googly-eyed snack box as backup. What you should not do is chase, kick, throw things at or otherwise injure gulls. The whole point of this research is to show there are peaceful ways to make your food less appealing without going full beachside action hero.

Should you really put googly eyes on your beach snacks?

If you want a cheap, silly and science-backed way to make some gulls think twice, putting fake eyes on your food packaging is worth trying. Will it stop every gull? No. Some birds are too bold, too hungry or too emotionally invested in your fries. (Girl, same.) But if it makes even a few gulls hesitate, I consider that a win.

At minimum, you have protected your lunch. At maximum, you have created the funniest beach accessory of the summer. So the next time you pack sunscreen, sunglasses and snacks, consider tossing in a sheet of googly eyes too. It’s weird, yes. But so is losing your lunch to a bird.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Ecology and Evolution: “Evaluating Aversion to Eye-Like Stimuli as a Foraging Deterrent in Herring Gulls”
• Biology Letters: “Herring gulls respond to human gaze direction”
• Communications Biology: “Artificial eyespots on cattle reduce predation by large carnivores”
• Biology Letters: “Herring gulls respond to the acoustic properties of men’s voices”

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The post This Simple Trick Will Stop Seagulls from Stealing Your Food at the Beach (And It’s 100% Sillier Than You’re Imagining) appeared first on Reader's Digest.

There’s a growing trend on social media where couples have started mailing invites for their big day to their favorite brands just for fun—and surprisingly, some have actually reached back out!

While there’s no guarantee every business will respond, of course, enough couples have had success to warrant giving this a try. And whether it’s a handwritten congratulatory note or some cool swag from the company, that little gesture can go a long way to making a couple’s celebration even more special.

Some of the most talked-about companies that have done this, according to @themakeshiftproject on Instagram? In-N-Out Burger, which has reportedly sent couples meal vouchers, T-shirts and other branded goodies, and Starbucks, where newlyweds say they’ve received mugs, coffee beans and gift cards. Meanwhile, Star Wars fans have also tried their luck with production company Lucasfilm, with some claiming the studio mailed them themed cookbooks after receiving an invite.

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A post shared by The Makeshift Project (@themakeshiftproject)

And honestly, even if all you get back is a card, it still makes for a pretty fun memento in the middle of wedding-planning chaos.

Which other companies might send you a wedding gift?

Here are a dozen other companies that couples have had success with after sending an invite—along with the wedding gifts they received:

• Ben & Jerry’s: Coupons and vouchers for free pints
• Chick-fil-A: Coupons and gift cards
• Coca-Cola: Personalized Coca-Cola bottles and, in some cases, mini Coca-Cola refrigerators
• Crumbl Cookies: Coupons for free cookies
• Delta Air Lines: Gift boxes, travel perks and seat upgrades for an upcoming honeymoon
• Disney: Letters and signed keepsakes from beloved Disney characters
• PetSmart: Toys and treats for the bride and groom’s fur babies
• Red Bull: Cans of Red Bull and thank-you notes
• REI: Stickers and small gifts
• Southwest Airlines: Flight vouchers, boarding upgrades and even champagne for honeymoon travel
• Taco Bell: Fun branded merch like tumblers, koozies, pins and keychains
• Zazzle: Wedding stationery freebies and discounts

Even if it doesn’t fund your honeymoon, it’s always nice to receive some happy mail to mark one of the most exciting times in your life. It’s time to shoot your shot!

Add Reader’s Digest on Google!

Sources:

• Instagram: @themakeshiftproject
• The Knot: “Companies to Send Wedding Invites To”

The post These Companies May Send You a Wedding Gift If You Invite Them to Your Big Day (Yes, Really!) appeared first on Reader's Digest.

It’s a quiet kind of panic. No one has mentioned a layoff, and all of the higher-ups keep encouraging the use of AI. But that creeping sense that things you do every day are getting easier to automate (and harder to defend) is lurking. Research from McKinsey & Co. suggests that with generative AI, up to 30% of the work people do now—their actual day-to-day tasks—could be automated by 2030. The 2025 Future of Jobs Report from the World Economic Forum (WEC) says nearly 40% of workers’ existing skill sets will be outdated or transformed by 2030. And though the WEC predicts net job growth by the same year, it could come with the loss of 92 million current jobs.

At the same time, a recent Gallup survey shows that most people still aren’t using AI much at work. About half of United States employees say they’ve used AI at least occasionally, but only a small share use it daily, and many don’t use it at all, highlighting a gap between how quickly the technology is advancing and how slowly it’s being adopted in everyday work.

To understand what’s actually happening—and what you can do about it—we spoke with experts in recruiting, AI, career coaching and workplace strategy. Their message was surprisingly consistent: This moment isn’t about starting over; it’s about understanding where your value really lies. And as Alex Kovalenko, an experienced IT recruiter at Kovasys recruitment agency, puts it, the real question isn’t “Will AI take my job?” It’s “What do I already know that AI can’t replicate?” Keep reading to find out!

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Which jobs are most at risk right now?

“Administrative and clerical support are definitely at risk,” says Chris Satterwhite, host of The Misfit Heroes Podcast, who currently works on RentAHuman, a platform that pays people to do tasks AI can’t perform. “Administrative assistants, secretaries, office clerks and data-entry staff with tasks like scheduling, correspondence, reporting and error-checking are already being automated with mainstream software like Microsoft Office 365.”

Roles built around repeatable, rules-based work—like data entry, basic bookkeeping and entry-level content production—are seeing the fastest changes, emphasizes Bryan DiGiorgio, founder and CEO of 1840 & Co., a global staffing and talent solutions firm. “Jobs aren’t disappearing overnight, but the task volume within them is shrinking fast.”

That’s why even roles people assume are safe, like junior developers, analysts and some marketing jobs, are starting to feel pressure, adds Satterwhite. “Much of their work involves producing structured, predictable output, which AI can now do quickly,” he says.

What do humans still have that AI doesn’t?

The good news: For all its speed and efficiency, AI still has clear limits—and that’s where your value lives. Much of what AI struggles with falls into what we tend to call “soft skills,” but as experts point out, those skills are anything but soft. They’re the ones that require judgment, context and real human understanding. “The more AI handles execution, the more valuable human-centered skills become,” says DiGiorgio.

We have judgment

AI can process information, but it doesn’t fully understand nuance, stakes or consequences. Sharon Gai, an AI expert and the author of How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-Driven Economy, points to the legal field: “AI can pull every precedent, draft every motion and summarize every deposition,” she says. “What it cannot do is sit across from a defendant, notice she is a single mother who recently lost her child and recognize that what looks on paper like erratic behavior is actually grief.”

Knowing that difference can change a defense strategy entirely. “The AI optimized for precedent,” she says. “Only the human saw the person behind the data.”

We can offer context

There’s also what Jordan Mandel, practice lead in AI transformation at CareerJoy, calls “navigating organizational ambiguity.” That means reading the room, sensing what’s unsaid and making decisions when the situation isn’t fully clear. “For example, do you know when to push back on your boss and when to let it go? Can you read a room and sense that the ‘yes’ in front of you is actually a ‘not yet’? Do you understand when two colleagues who technically agree are operating from completely different assumptions?”

That kind of situational intelligence, he explains, is built over years inside specific organizations, with specific people, and it’s almost impossible to replicate because it’s not really a skill; it’s accumulated context.

We see the big picture

AI is very good at answering clear, well-defined questions where there is enough data to synthesize, but it struggles when things are still unclear. That’s what Mandel describes as the moment “before the question is even fully formed, where a human has to hold uncertainty, gather incomplete signals and commit to a direction anyway,” he says. “The people who are thriving right now are the ones comfortable (or at least, acquainted with) living in that gap.”

We can be trusted to make the call

AI can generate options, but it can’t take responsibility for a decision. “What AI can’t replicate easily is judgment under uncertainty, human trust and ethical accountability,” says Kovalenko. In high-stakes situations, someone still has to decide what to do—and stand behind it.

We can connect the dots

Completing tasks is one thing, but AI doesn’t always understand how those tasks fit together. “The people who are hardest to replace are the ones who combine judgment, communication and ownership of outcomes,” says DiGiorgio. That ability to see how decisions ripple across a business is still deeply human.

We can build real relationships

AI can mimic conversation, but it can’t build trust over time. Joe Szynkowski, founder of the UpWrite Group, a communications firm that works with both job seekers and employers, says the roles that are holding steady are the ones that rely on ongoing relationships, where understanding people—not just solving problems—is what drives results. “This is going to be one of the most resilient skills we can have moving forward.”

We know what works

“AI lacks taste, style and personality,” says Christian Pyrros, who is both a managing director at Erfolk, a B2B marketing and AI consultancy, and a career counselor at Elevanation. “A lot of what it produces feels the same.” Put another way, AI can generate endless options, but it doesn’t know which one is right. People who stand out are those who can look at options and know what will actually resonate.

Gai gives an example from her own experience on a project that used multiple marketing agencies: “One night, I was shown a generative AI design tool that produced all of that agency work with a few clicks. The designers whose work was being replaced were the ones doing production,” she says. “The designers who kept their jobs were the ones clients called because they had a point of view, a relationship and the taste to know which of the hundred AI options was the one that would actually sell a dress.”

Which AI-proof careers are a good fit for your skills?

Here are some realistic transitions, based on patterns DiGiorgio and other career and AI experts say they’re already seeing. Most of these pivots don’t require starting from scratch. In fact, many experts say the smartest moves build directly on skills you already have.

“The best pivots aren’t reinventions. They’re repositioning exercises,” says DiGiorgio. That might mean picking up a certification or learning how to work with AI tools, but not going back to school for years. The goal is to move into roles where your existing strengths—communication, judgment and problem-solving—matter even more.

Salary estimates are based on U.S. labor data and industry averages.

Administrative assistant → Project coordinator

• Transferable skills: Organization, scheduling, communication
• Median pay: About $60,000–$75,000
• Why it works: Project roles rely on coordination and decision-making, areas AI can assist but not replace.

Customer service rep → Customer success manager

• Transferable skills: Communication, problem-solving, relationship-building
• Median pay: About $70,000–$100,000
• Why it works: AI can answer questions, but it can’t manage relationships or long-term outcomes.

Content writer → Communications strategist

• Transferable skills: Writing, research, storytelling
• Median pay: About $75,000–$110,000
• Why it works: AI can generate content, but strategy and messaging still require human judgment.

Journalist → Public relations specialist

• Transferable skills: Interviewing, storytelling, audience insight
• Median pay: About $65,000–$100,000
• Why it works: PR relies heavily on relationships and understanding what resonates with people.

Bookkeeper → Financial analyst

• Transferable skills: Data familiarity, attention to detail
• Median pay: About $75,000–$110,000
• Why it works: Routine tasks are automated, but analysis and decision-making are not.

Recruiting coordinator → Talent partner

• Transferable skills: Candidate interaction, communication
• Median pay: About $70,000–$100,000
• Why it works: Hiring decisions and candidate relationships still require human judgment.

Retail sales associate → Account manager

• Transferable skills: Sales, customer interaction
• Median pay: About $65,000–$95,000
• Why it works: This shift focuses on long-term relationships, not one-time transactions.

Any role → AI prompt specialist or AI trainer

• Transferable skills: Communication, problem-solving
• Median pay: About $80,000+
• Why it works: Companies need people who can guide AI, evaluate output and improve results. “Basically, you figure out the problem, write a custom GPT and adapt it to the business,” says Kovalenko. “It’s similar to what business analysts and architects do now, but more on the IT side.”

Office-based role → Skilled trades (plumbing, electrical, etc.)

• Transferable skills: Problem-solving, reliability
• Median pay: About $50,000–$90,000+
• Why it works: These roles require physical presence and adaptability—AI can’t replicate that. As Kovalenko notes, AI isn’t showing up at your house at 2 a.m. to fix a flooded basement.

The biggest mistake people make when pivoting

One of the most common mistakes is switching industries but not changing the type of work. As Mandel points out, many people move from one predictable, repeatable role to another just like it. Sure, it’s a different title, but it comes with the same vulnerability. Instead, experts suggest focusing on roles that rely more on judgment, relationships and decision-making.

The bottom line: AI is changing work, but it’s not eliminating the need for people. If anything, it’s clarifying where humans matter most. As Satterwhite puts it, “Hammers don’t build houses—builders do.” The more you shift from doing the work to directing the work, the more secure your future becomes.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Chris Satterwhite, host of The Misfit Heroes Podcast; email interview, April 2026
• Joe Szynkowski, founder of the UpWrite Group; email interview, April 2026
• Christian Pyrros, managing director at Elevanation; email interview, April 2026
• Alex Kovalenko, lead IT recruiter at Kovasys; email interview, April 2026
• Sharon Gai, author of How to Do More with Less: Future-Proofing Yourself in an AI-Driven Economy; email interview, April 2026
• Jordan Mandel, practice lead in AI transformation at CareerJoy; email interview, April 2026
• Bryan DiGiorgio, founder and CEO of 1840 & Co.; email interview, April 2026
• World Economic Forum: “Future of Jobs Report 2025”
• McKinsey & Co.: “Generative AI and the future of work in America”
• Gallup: “Frequent Use of AI in the Workplace Continued to Rise in Q4”

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The post AI Is Coming for Your Job—Here’s How to Pivot into 9 Safe Careers with the Skills You Already Have appeared first on Reader's Digest.

In fact, a recent survey from Morning Consult found that nearly 1 in 3 U.S. adults who use social media say they doomscroll either “a lot” or “some,” with even higher rates among Gen Zers and Millennials. Research also suggests that prolonged exposure to negative online content can chip away at focus, productivity and overall well-being. Doomscrolling has been linked to higher levels of stress, anxiety and poor sleep, and constantly taking in distressing news can keep your body in a heightened state of alert, raising your heart rate and leaving you drained. Even worse, research suggests that just having your phone nearby can reduce your enjoyment of real-world interactions.

The good news: You don’t need a full digital detox. Swapping even a few minutes of scrolling for simple, real-world activities can boost mood, reduce stress and help you feel more present. But here’s the key: Not all breaks from your phone work the same way. Anna Elton, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Port St. Lucie, Florida, explains that doomscrolling often functions as a form of emotional regulation—people are trying to change how they feel in the moment. That’s why the most effective alternatives aren’t random; they’re targeted.

“The goal is to replace doomscrolling with something that actually meets the same psychological need,” Elton says. That may be stimulation, a sense of control, connection or relief. Here, Elton offers 20 simple ways to break the scroll cycle based on what your brain is really craving. (We give you eight bonus ideas too!). Keep reading to learn easy, enjoyable ways to get to your doomscrolling under control.

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What to do when you really (really) want to pick up your phone

Feeling the urge to flip through your phone? Step away from your device! Below, Elton shares 20 things that are a better use of your time than doomscrolling.

Do a 5-4-3-2-1 reset

Look around and name five things you can see, four you can feel, three you can hear, two you can smell and one you can taste. This grounding technique engages your senses and helps pull your attention out of anxious loops.

Tidy one small surface

Set a two-minute timer and clean off a counter, desk or nightstand. Small, visible progress can create a sense of control, which helps calm anxious thoughts.

Get “lost”

Head to the grocery store—but take a different route and explore. Exposure to new environments can stimulate curiosity and improve cognitive flexibility.

Try a no-recipe recipe

Put down the recipe app. Cooking intuitively engages your senses and attention, offering a break from passive consumption.

Jot down a reverse to-do list

Rather than focusing on what you have yet to accomplish, write down everything you’ve already done today. This simple shift taps into positive reinforcement, which can boost motivation and reduce stress.

Sit somewhere social

Head to a coffee shop or park and simply be around other people. Passive connection still counts.

Make your bed feel like a hotel

There’s nothing like a crisp, clean bed. Smoothing and arranging your space creates a quick environmental reset, which research suggests can influence how relaxed and focused you feel.

Try a “brain dump”

Jot down the three things currently occupying your thoughts. Yes, with a pen or pencil. Externalizing worries can make them feel much more manageable.

Rearrange one space

Shift a shelf, table or corner of a room. Changing your environment—even slightly—introduces novelty, which your brain naturally responds to with increased attention. Plus, even small environmental changes can feel surprisingly engaging.

Find one hidden detail

Instead of grabbing your phone, look around you for something you’ve never noticed before. This can be at home, at work, at the park or in the carpool lane. Training your attention this way can strengthen focus over time.

Learn one tiny thing

Spend five minutes learning a quick skill or a few words in a new language. Novelty gives your brain the stimulation it’s seeking—without the scroll spiral.

Reach out to someone

Call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Even a brief connection can lift your mood.

Ask a friend a real question

Instead of “How are you?” try something more meaningful, like “What’s something you’re looking forward to right now?” It often leads to a more satisfying interaction.

Lie down for 5 minutes

Close your eyes and give your brain a true break—no input at all. This kind of pause can be more restorative than passive scrolling.

Revisit old photos

Look through photos intentionally to reconnect with positive memories and relationships. Bonus: It’s easy. The next time you grab your phone to mindlessly scroll social media, open your photo album instead.

Compliment a stranger

A quick “I love your shoes” or “Great jacket” can boost your mood as much as theirs—and may even lead to a longer conversation.

Take a quiet walk

Walk through the park without headphones or your phone. Research shows that time in nature can improve focus and reduce mental fatigue.

Move with intention

Light movement—from stretching to bending to swaying—can reduce physical tension and improve mood. Touch your toes, swing your arms—it doesn’t have to be a big routine. The key is to move with intention.

Notice the minute details

Look for three things you usually ignore: lights, sounds and textures around you. This shifts your attention outward.

Do nothing (on purpose)

It sounds simple, but intentional rest can help break the cycle of constant stimulation. Sit quietly, listen to the birds or just zone out—your brain will thank you.

More expert-backed ways to stop doomscrolling

Here are eight bonus ideas for taking your mind off your phone and the state of the world:

• Grow something from scratch: Gardening (or even caring for indoor plants) has been linked to improved mental well-being and reduced stress.
• Work on a puzzle: Keeping your hands and brain busy reduces the urge to reach for your phone—and supports cognitive health.
• Get handsy: Knitting, painting and crafting keep your hands occupied and your mind focused.
• Step outside barefoot: Grass, patio, even your front step—all are good spots for a barefoot breather. Just a minute or two can feel surprisingly calming and sensory.
• Create a closing ritual: Pick one small action that signals your day is done, such as wiping counters, dimming lights or making tea. It can help replace that late-night scrolling habit.
• Do a use-it-or-lose-it sweep: Grab five items you haven’t used recently and decide: keep, donate or toss. It’s fast and satisfying.
• Make a “next time” list: Instead of scrolling for ideas—recipes, outfits or things to try—jot down what you already know you want to do.
• Try a 15-minute cozy reset: Light a candle, straighten your space and put on music. The goal is to create a mood on purpose.

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• Every Group Chat Has a Dreaded “Finger Princess”—Does This Sound Like You?
• Apple’s New Emoji Pretty Much Sums Up 2026! Here’s the Face You’re Probably Making Right Now
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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Anna Elton, LMFT, CST, licensed therapist and author of Couples Therapy in the Digital Age; email interview, May 5, 2026
• Psychosomatic Medicine: “Association of enjoyable leisure activities with psychological and physical well-being”
• Psychological Science: “The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature”
• Environment and Behavior: “The iPhone effect: the quality of in-person social interactions in the presence of mobile devices”
• Morning Consult: “How doomscrolling is impacting social media users’ mood”
• American Psychological Association: “Media overload is hurting our mental health. Here are ways to manage headline stress”

Your Community Can Save Your Sanity

Your Guide to Ditching Digital Clutter

Do This and Never Forget Your Stuff

The post Get Off Your Phone! Here Are 28 Things to Do Instead of Doomscrolling appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Perhaps just as iconic as the burger chain itself is the coveted “animal style” burger. This delicious concoction has quite the reputation, even though In-N-Out Burger only has locations in nine states. And since the vast majority of those are in California, even if you love these burgers (and fries!), you might be out of luck—until now.

Recently, a TikTok video revealed how to replicate In-N-Out’s animal style burger (or at least get pretty darn close) at McDonald’s, which has locations in every single state. Don’t believe us? Read on to find out how to do it at your local Mickey D’s.

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What are “animal style” burgers and fries?

So once upon a time, there were “secret” menu items at In-N-Out that you had to know about ahead of time to order. One of those was the animal style burger. Any burger on the menu could be ordered animal style, which means you’d get it with lettuce, tomato, pickles, extra In-N-Out spread and grilled onions. You could also get animal style fries, which came with melted American cheese, grilled onions and In-N-Out spread.

In-N-Out later dispensed with the secret part and brought animal style burgers and other hidden gems to its official Not So Secret Menu (though not the fries—those are still “secret”). Now, regulars and first-timers alike can order an animal style burger—if you live in California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Texas or Tennessee.

People who live in the 41 states without an In-N-Out Burger will have to improvise, and that’s where the genius McDonald’s hack comes in. If you’ve never had an animal style burger, or you can’t get them anymore because you no longer live near an In-N-Out (sorry!), you’re going to love knowing how to duplicate them.

How do you order an “animal style” burger at McDonald’s?

@hellthyjunkfood #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner #innout #mcdonalds #foodhacks ♬ original sound – HellthyJunkFood

Thanks to a TikTok video that shared the hack, we now know exactly how to replicate an animal style burger at McDonald’s. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Order a Double Cheeseburger with no ketchup.
2. Add lettuce and tomatoes.
3. Ask for grilled onions instead of chopped raw onions.
4. Ask for a side of Big Mac sauce.
5. Spread the Big Mac sauce on one of the buns. (In-N-Out puts its sauce on the bottom bun, if you want to get technical.)
6. Dig in.

The only modification that the person taking your order at McDonald’s may object to is the grilled onions. While not traditionally an option as a burger topping at McDonald’s, the breakfast Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel does come with grilled onions on it, so workers are capable of making them. They just may be less inclined to do so if there’s a long line behind you!

The cost of this McDonald’s animal style dupe may vary by location, but it will likely come out around $7, or about $1 or so more than the original at In-N-Out.

How do you order “animal style” fries at McDonald’s?

OK, so now you know how to order an animal style burger at McDonald’s. But what about the fries? Admittedly, this one is a little trickier to replicate … but not impossible. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Order a Basket of Fries, if available at your location.
2. Order a side of Big Mac sauce, two slices of American cheese and a side of grilled onions.
3. When you get your food, immediately tear the cheese into pieces, place them on top of the fries and shut the bag to keep the steam inside and melt the cheese.
4. Top it with the onions and Big Mac sauce once the cheese is melty.
5. Enjoy!

There are two places you might get tripped up here. One is the grilled onions. But again, if you’re super polite and the restaurant isn’t busy, this shouldn’t be a problem. The second spot is the Basket of Fries. This is a semi-secret menu item here in the U.S., and not all McDonald’s locations have it. (If yours does, it will be listed on the menu.) If not, you could try getting a large order of fries, asking for an empty Happy Meal box and dumping the fries into the box before adding the toppings. Or, take all the ingredients home and assemble and reheat to melt the cheese.

Again, the cost of this order will vary by location. The Basket of Fries, if you can get it, is usually more expensive than a medium order of fries but cheaper than a large, putting it somewhere between $3.50 and $6, depending on where you live. Animal style fries at In-N-Out are priced pretty similarly.

So there you have it—the keys to experiencing the wonder of In-N-Out Burger’s animal style burger and fries from the comfort of your neighborhood McDonald’s. And who knows? You may just uncover a new favorite order.

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• This Fast-Food Chain Offers the Best Value on Burgers (Nope, It’s Not McDonald’s)
• This Simple Phrase Will Ensure You Get a Fresh Burger from McDonald’s

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• In-N-Out Burger: “Not So Secret Menu”
• TikTok: “HellthyJunkFood”
• McDonald’s: “Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel”

McDonald's Is Spicing Up Its Breakfast Menu

You'll Love This Secret McDonald's Menu Item

Why McDonald's Filet-O-Fish Is Golden

The post This Ordering Trick Lets You Enjoy In-N-Out’s “Animal Style” Burgers and Fries at McDonald’s appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Countless iconic photographs have been captured at that very spot over the decades: Queen Elizabeth II at her Jubilee in 2022, various newly crowned monarchs draped in velvet robes and newlyweds sealing their vows with a kiss (or more!). But what would we see if we could get a peek from the other direction? Do the royals actually see the commoners they wave at—or something else we would have never guessed?

Ahead, a royal insider spilled the beans, and we have all the details. We will likely never get to stand on that iconic balcony, so keep reading to find out what we’re missing!

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What’s actually happening on that Buckingham Palace balcony?

On the screen (or on the Mall, if you happen to be in London for a royal occasion) it seems like the monarch and his family are looking directly at the cheering crowd. But the truth is, they can’t actually see much of what’s going on. The large Queen Victoria Memorial in front of the palace blocks their view of the Mall, where the majority of the royal fans are lined up. That’s why, as an insider told Hello!, the royals have small hidden televisions where they can watch both themselves and the commoners below them.

Yes, you heard that right: Televisions are on the balcony.

“They are placed in the corners of the balcony, slightly canted,” the Hello! source revealed. “The balustrade is covered in red fabric, so all the equipment can be hidden behind it.” (The screens must be really well hidden, considering nobody has ever seen them.) We’ve never spotted the royal youngsters (or any other royal) marveling at themselves on the TVs—or maybe we have but didn’t realize it at the time—but it’s easy to imagine that the kids are having a blast pulling faces for their fans and the cameras.

When do the royals stand on the balcony?

Every time there’s a major royal or national event, the royals gather on the balcony. This includes the annual Trooping the Colour event, royal weddings and coronations. You can surely remember Charles in his purple silk velvet Robe of Estate, waving from the balcony for the first time as king in May 2023. He stood alongside the newly crowned Queen Camilla as well as the senior royals and their kids.

And then, of course, there were the two kisses William and Kate shared on their wedding day in April 2011, an intimate moment in front of millions. By the way, the kissing tradition was started by William’s father, Charles, and the late Princess Diana. When they tied the knot in July 1981, the groom forgot to kiss his bride after the vows at the altar—and made up for it later on the balcony. The commoners, unsurprisingly, loved it, and the balcony kiss has been a tradition ever since.

In 2022, Kate’s and William’s youngest son, Prince Louis, stole the show at Elizabeth’s Jubilee by covering his ears and pulling funny faces during the flyby. You never know who will go viral!

The next Trooping the Colour will be on June 13, 2026, so mark your calendars. It might be a while until the next royal wedding, after all.

Who’s allowed to stand on the balcony?

That’s up to the monarch. Technically, there are no fixed rules about who’s allowed on the balcony and who isn’t (which is surprising, considering almost everything else in royal life seems to be strictly regulated). But according to tradition, it’s usually the king or queen and their spouse, the first- and second-in-line to the throne and their husbands, wives and kids, if they have any. In recent years, however, access has been limited to working royals, and it was Elizabeth who first stripped down the balcony crowd for her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.

“After careful consideration, the queen has decided this year’s traditional Trooping the Colour balcony appearance … will be limited to her majesty and those members of the royal family who are currently undertaking official public duties on behalf of the queen,” a palace spokesperson confirmed to the British press at the time. This meant that Harry and Meghan, who were flying in from the U.S., while allowed to attend other Jubilee events, such as a service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, could not join the senior royals on the balcony. The same applied to the now ex-prince Andrew and his daughters, Princess Eugenie (who just revealed exciting news!) and Princess Beatrice. Charles has continued this rule.

Has the balcony appearance always been a tradition?

No, but it’s been going on for quite a while—since 1851, to be exact. It was Queen Victoria, Charles’s great-great-great-grandmother, who started the balcony tradition. She was also the first to make Buckingham Palace the main residence of the monarch, moving there in 1837, just weeks after being crowned as an 18-year-old. Victoria had no fewer than nine kids with her husband, Prince Albert, so unsurprisingly, the family needed as much space as possible.

Victoria commissioned the East Wing, which we today know as the front of the palace. It was Albert, however, who suggested adding the now-iconic balcony. Construction finished in 1849, but the balcony was first used for official appearances two years later, during celebrations for the opening of the Great Exhibition, an international exposition focusing on industrial progress. Over time, it has become the place for the royals to wave to the crowds of commoners on all important royal or national occasions.

RELATED:

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• Queen Elizabeth Actually Loved Doing This Very Annoying Cleaning Task—And Yes, She Did It Herself!
• Here’s What the Royals Really Do with Their Old Clothes and Other Unwanted Stuff

Sources:

• Hello!: “Revealed: What the royal family keep hidden on palace balcony during official appearances”
• Royal.uk: “What is Trooping the Colour?”
• Royal.uk: “Victoria (r. 1837-1901)”
• British Army: “Trooping the Colour”
• Royal Collection Trust: “History of the East Wing of Buckingham Palace”
• Reuters: “Buckingham Palace opens room with famous balcony to visitors”
• Independent: “Prince Louis ‘steals the show’ during royal family balcony appearance”
• The Guardian: “No Harry, Meghan or Andrew on balcony at start of jubilee events”
• Marie Claire: “This iconic royal wedding tradition started because of a big mistake at the altar”
• Town & Country: “Who gets to stand on the Buckingham Palace balcony?”

Who William Banned from His Wedding

Would You Pass the Royals’ Cleaning Test?

Kate's Morning Checklist Is So Relatable

The post Here’s What the Royal Family Is Actually Doing When They’re Standing on the Balcony appeared first on Reader's Digest.

While chatting with guests at a Buckingham Palace garden party on May 8, she offered a glimpse into her home life, and it turns out that even palace mornings have a specific rhythm that kicks off immediately. One detail, in particular, had dog owners everywhere thinking they’d seen (or lived!) this story before.

Read on to find out the first thing Kate says happens every morning inside the royal household.

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How does Kate start each morning?

It turns out royal mornings don’t come with trumpets. They start with something far more familiar: a quick check on the family puppy. At the garden party, Kate told guests that the household’s first order of business is very down to earth. As she put it, “You have to keep them busy. The first thing we do in the morning is check, ‘Has anyone taken Otto out?’”

And Otto, by the sound of it, is fully in his hyperactive era. Kate also joked about his habits, saying he “chews a lot,” which might mean the family is constantly keeping him occupied to avoid coming downstairs to find yet another household item has transformed into a chew toy.

So yes, before the diaries, the meetings and everything else that comes with royal life, the princess starts the day exactly like a lot of others: checking on the royal dog, assessing the damage potential and making sure no one has been too ambitious with their chewing overnight.

Who’s the little furball that rules the royals’ lives?

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A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)

That would be Otto, the family’s cocker spaniel, who has very quickly gone from adorable newcomer to full-on household personality. He comes from the litter born to the family’s well-known dog, Orla. She welcomed four puppies in May 2025, and the family announced the arrival on their social media last summer. While all the puppies were clearly adored, Otto is the one who officially joined the day-to-day scramble of royal life.

Kate gave a sneak peek into life with him during a royal engagement back in February, saying things at home had already been taken over by tiny paws. “We’ve got a little puppy,” she said. “He’s only 8 months.” Sure, Otto was just a small fluffball at that point, but he was already making a big impact.

The family formally introduced him more recently, sharing an adorable photo on the official Kensington Palace social media to mark his first birthday on May 1. The caption kept it simple and sweet: “Welcome to the family, Otto! 1 today.”

Now, at just over a year old, Otto is a slightly bigger fluffball with the same puppy energy. Which means the chewing phase hasn’t disappeared. The little pup requires a lot of management, and as Kate has made clear, the only real strategy is to keep him busy.

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• Here’s What Sarah Ferguson’s Involvement in the Epstein Scandal Means for Her and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie
• Would You Pass the Royals’ Cleaning Test? Check Out What They Make Prospective Hires Do!
• Prince William Banned This Relative from His Wedding—And It’s Not Who You Think!

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of stories on the British royal family, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating facets of the monarchy. We regularly cover topics including the latest royal news, the history and meaning behind time-honored traditions, and the everyday quirks of everyone’s favorite family members, from Queen Elizabeth’s daily snack to Prince William’s confessions about his home life. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• The Telegraph: “Princess of Wales let children stay up late to watch Aston Villa Victory”
• The Royal Observer: “Princess Kate Opens Up About Her New Morning Routine with William & the Kids—and We Can All Relate”

The post Kate Middleton’s Morning Checklist Is So Relatable for Anyone with a Puppy appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Five states—California, Texas, Georgia, Virginia and Arizona—are monitoring residents who disembarked the ship before the outbreak occurred, and New Jersey announced Friday that two residents are being monitored after potentially being exposed during air travel abroad: “The department is working with local health officials to monitor returning travelers as a precaution,” New Jersey Department of Health officials said. “Neither individual is currently reported to have symptoms suggestive of hantavirus.”

You may remember hantavirus as the disease that killed Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, in 2025, and multiple outbreaks of the virus have captivated the public over the past 30 years. But there’s still much about hantavirus that’s unknown, likely due to its rarity. “And so for a time, that probably led to less research into it because of funding priorities,” Steven Bradfute, PhD, an infectious disease researcher at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, told AP News, “but I know there’s been a lot of interest in funding hantavirus work of late.”

Should you be worried? Is this the start of the next pandemic? And what exactly is hantavirus, anyway? We scoured the web for the best news articles and videos for additional context on hantavirus and the cruise ship outbreak, plus what you need to know to protect yourself at home and when you travel.

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Hantavirus is a family of viruses carried by rodents

Hantaviruses aren’t a single organism, but a group of viruses found all over the world. They are known as “zoonotic” viruses, meaning they can jump from animals to people. Hantaviruses are naturally carried by rodents, and each hantavirus tends to infect a specific species (the rodents are carriers but typically have no symptoms).

Discovered on World Health Organization

Only one type of hantavirus can spread from human to human

Hantaviruses primarily spread to humans when they breathe in dust that’s been contaminated by the saliva, urine or droppings of mice and rats. This usually happens when people disturb the homes of infected rodents, such as when cleaning out a garage or shed. But one strain of the virus, Andes, is prevalent in South America (where the MV Hondius originated) and is known to spread from person to person.

Discovered on PBS News Hour

Hantavirus infection is rare, but very serious

Between 1993 and 2023, the latest data available, fewer than 900 cases of hantavirus infections were documented in the United States. Of those cases, the vast majority (859) caused a severe respiratory disease called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), and the overall mortality rate was 35%.

Discovered on CDC

Early symptoms are often confused with the flu

Even though hantavirus infection can be extremely dangerous, early symptoms often mimic viral illnesses like the flu. Signs of the disease include fever, body aches, dry cough, headaches and diarrhea. Because there is no test for HPS, doctors rely on patients’ respiratory symptoms and exposure to rodents early in the disease progression.

Discovered on American Lung Association

Hantavirus was discovered in the 1990s, but the first known case was in 1959

In 1993, a young, fit Navajo couple died of a mysterious respiratory illness in the Four Corners region of the U.S. (where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado meet) within days of each other. The disease quickly killed 10 people in two months, and it had a 50% mortality rate over the next year.

When epidemiologists investigated tissue samples from autopsies going back decades, they discovered the virus was not new; it was re-emerging. The first known victim died in 1959.

Discovered on University of New Mexico Museum of Southwestern Biology

American passengers from the cruise ship have arrived in Nebraska

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sent teams to Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, to escort 17 passengers to the National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Though passengers were flown to the state on a special biocontainment jet to be evaluated, they will not be quarantined. None of the passengers is currently experiencing symptoms.

Discovered on CNN

There is no cure or vaccine for hantavirus

When people get sick from hantaviruses, the only remedy is supportive care—basically rest, hydration and treatment of symptoms. That treatment depends on the type of hantavirus illness contracted. In the Americas, people tend to get HPS, so the treatment focuses on breathing support, such as intubation. In Europe and Asia, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is more common, with patients benefitting from dialysis to remove toxins from their blood.

Discovered on CDC

Hantavirus in the U.S. almost always occurs in the West

Most cases of hantavirus infection occur in the western half of the U.S., specifically in the Four Corners region. The primary vector is the deer mouse, but scientists have found more than 30 species of mammals in New Mexico alone that carry the virus.

Discovered on University of New Mexico Health Sciences

Early outbreaks led to a media and pop culture frenzy

In the 1990s, reports of young, healthy people dying in hours from a mystery illness created a media firestorm. Breathless reporting about patients who “literally suffocate before they can be put on respirators” alarmed the public and influenced pop culture. One notable episode of the X-Files featured a character who died from thinking about hantavirus and served as a commentary on fear and misinformation.

Discovered on the Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly

Misinformation is still a problem today

Familiar voices from the COVID-19 era, like a doctor who continues to promote ivermectin and public figures who thrive on sowing distrust of the government in general, have amplified dangerous and false information about the crisis. Theories about Chinese bioweapons and vaccine disinformation have led epidemiologists to warn that influencers with a financial motive to sow fear are hampering their ability to do their jobs.

Discovered on Stat News

The cruise ship outbreak is not the start of another pandemic

Despite the severity of the current cases and the fear they understandably stir up in people, experts say that the risk to the general public is very low.

“I want to be unequivocal here. This is not the start of a COVID pandemic,” Maria Van Kerkhove, director of epidemic and pandemic management at the World Health Organization (WHO), said at a press conference on May 7. “This is not COVID. This is not influenza. It spreads very, very differently.”

Discovered on NPR

But experts say budget cuts have reduced our ability to respond to outbreaks

Even though multiple Americans were aboard the MV Hondius, the CDC did not set up a response team until two weeks after the first patient died. In addition, several U.S. passengers disembarked and returned to the U.S. before the ship reached the Canary Islands—but the agency didn’t issue a statement until four hours after news of their return broke in the media.

Experts say that overall, deep staffing cuts to health agencies means the government has fewer people available to respond to emergencies. President Trump also withdrew the United States from the WHO, which means the country is no longer receiving regular updates on emerging threats.

Discovered on the New York Times

You don’t have to worry about going on a cruise

Because hantavirus infections are so rare, especially those that spread between people, experts say the future of cruising is in good shape. But on any cruise, practicing good hygiene—including washing your hands frequently and maintaining physical distance from symptomatic individuals—is always a good policy.

“I don’t think anybody should be worried about getting on a typical cruise ship and being infected with the hantavirus,” Scott Weaver, a hantavirus researcher at the University of Texas Medical Branch, told Wired. “This was a unique circumstance where the ship docked in a part of the world where these viruses are present, and most of the big cruise ships don’t go to this part of the world.”

Discovered on Wired

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

This Feature Is Vanishing from Cruise Ships

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Read the Fine Print on Your Cruise Contract!

The post Hantavirus Seems to Be Spreading Like the Plague—Is It Time to Start Freaking Out? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Boasting a bevy of beachy buddies, the latest batch of Jellies—which drops on May 12—offers an assortment of new friends. And just like we’d expect from Jellycat, each new critter is crafted from the cozy signature fabrics that make them oh-so-huggable. Like most other Jellycat collections, we expect these to sell out quicker than a frisbee toss, so snag your favorites fast!

Here’s what we know about the new drop, along with our predictions on which will sell out first.

What are the summer Jellycats?

The new High Summer lineup, which drops on May 12, includes a mix of warm-weather icons. Among the cute critters are a new Bart Bear and a plucky pelican, which our resident Jellycat expert Katie Bandurski predicts will be the first two pals to sell out. After all, what Jellycat fan can resist yet another smartly dressed Bartholomew? Certainly not us!

Read the full roll call of new Jellies below:

• Larry Lobster in Sailor Outfit
• Pinchsnap Crab
• Fancy Carp
• Bartholomew Bear in Seafarer Outfit
• Puddlesea Bunny
• Maffles Manatee
• Roarwell Sea Lion
• Keli Pelican
• Sun ‘Roller Skates’
• Life Ring (Available June 2)
• Jellycat Soccer Ball (Available June 23)

Our top picks

Bartholomew Bear Seafarer Outfit

Shop on Jellycat

Ahoy! Bart Bear is back, and this time he’s boasting adorable boat-ready attire. Sporting a knitted seafarer cap complete with ear holes, he’s ready to face the brisk sea air. The cap perfectly matches his striped sailor shirt and yellow dungarees. All he’s missing is a boat and a friend to set sail with!

Keli Pelican

Shop on Jellycat

Keli Pelican is fit for snuggles with her ultra-soft feathers and curious grin. Between an adorable tuft on the top of her head and her flipper-style feet, we can’t figure out what features we love most. At over a foot tall, she’s a sizable and stunning addition to any Jelly collection.

Larry Lobster Sailor Outfit

Shop on Jellycat

We can’t get enough of Larry Lobster, especially when he’s sporting such a smart striped sweater. His fluffy, textured “shell” offers a soothing sensory experience. Between his big, excited eyes and friendly grin, we certainly think he’s a catch!

Maffles Manatee

Shop on Jellycat

Sailors of yore used to mistake manatees for mermaids. Maffles Manatee may not be a mythical creature, but he sure has our hearts! We can’t wait to run our hands over his short, textured “skin” that looks about as soft and cozy as a baby blanket. Plus, we just know his plump body is perfect for cuddling!

Where to buy

As always, you can find the new summer Jellycats directly on the Jellycat website. Most styles will be available starting May 12.

Flip-flopping between a few friends? We recommend snagging both. If these are anything like the Valentine’s Day and space Jellies, they’ll disappear quicker than the tide!

As always: Be careful of Jellycat knock-offs. Many third-party sellers list faux plush using images of the real deal. If you see a price that is significantly lower than the list price through Jellycat, it’s likely too good to be true.

The post The Summer Jellycat Collection Is Coming—And One Style Is Sure to Sell Out appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I mean … sure? Bits of real history are mixed in to these incredibly popular and silly memes, which are spreading across the internet like democracy through ancient Greece. Of course, viral trends probably aren’t the best available teaching tool, but why not look for a silver lining?

Read on to check out the latest (and wackiest!) brain-rot video to catch fire, and learn how to make one of your own—although honestly, we suggest leaving this one to the kids.

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What’s the new viral meme featuring Socrates and skeletons?

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A post shared by MR_DATA (@mr_datavisuals)

The viral meme, created by Instagram’s @mr_datavisuals before expanding to TikTok, features an AI-generated skeleton strolling sunny Athens while super-odd scenarios are suggested.

The first—”What if you spent a week in ancient Greece?“—started a trend of increasingly absurd what-if situations about long-past Greek life, as in “What if you sold Nikes in ancient Greece?” In every one, Socrates arrives to argue with the bone man, spending hours philosophizing and positing annoying, hard-to-answer questions (“What is the meaning of justice?”).

And yet, the vids also serve up smart info about life in ancient Greece, using words like agora and drachmas and informing viewers that Nike was the Greek goddess of victory. Of course, other tidbits are more in line with teen brains, such as explaining that early Greeks used stall-less communal toilets … and wiped with the same shared sponge (eww!).

The series and its skeletal star have since expanded to other time periods (World War II, ancient Rome, the age of Vikings) and different long-ago cultures, like India, China and even America’s Wild West. But the bathroom humor is never far away, as one video details what various early peoples used before toilet paper was invented (bamboo, moss, corncobs).

How did Socrates get involved in this, exactly?

Socrates is involved as the perfect foil, since the great thinker invented the well-known and sometimes withering question-and-response approach known as the Socratic method. This technique probes topics deeply and cooperatively to point out assumptions and beliefs while also honing critical thinking.

As for the skeleton, he’s simply you—the viewer—and a more fun counterpart to the stern, serious philosopher. And who among us hasn’t wondered what would happen if we tried to sell fried chicken to the ancients? (Ask your kids.)

Why is this rage bait, and why does it drive kids nuts?

The skeleton vs. Socrates videos are classic rage bait: They frustrate and madden kids by pummeling them with questions, resulting in continued watching, clicking and commenting. Indeed, a barefoot, dusty dude wearing a sheet debating whether wind is real, what hello means or if you truly understand hunger is enough to send anyone screaming into the night.

But the setup itself also appeals, since kids are similar in the way they can pester ad nauseam. And the reels are rather funny, touching on relatable teen topics like homework, Chick-fil-A, sports and more.

How are people making these?

You can make these goofy videos with an AI meme generator. (Shocking, we know!) For example, a site like Supermeme.ai can take an idea or question and turn it into a fast meme without having to dig up templates, search for pictures, write zingy captions or learn graphic design. Nope, AI isn’t here to save the world.

Do you have a question about life in another time period that you think could be absolutely hilarious? Let me stop you right there. It’s tempting, but before you head down this AI rabbit hole yourself, know that your kid will likely label you totally cringe (#fail)—so maybe just enjoy this trend vicariously.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Instagram: “What if you spent a week in ancient Greece?”
• TikTok: “What if you and Socrates sold Raising Cane’s in ancient Rome?”
• TikTok: “What if you sold Nikes in ancient Greece?”

Everyone Is Talking About Spotify Ages

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Slang Words That We're Ready to Retire

The post Why Is Your Kid Suddenly Talking About Socrates and Skeletons? Here’s What the Latest Viral Trend Is About appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Ready to run amok with the sisters? We definitely are! Read on to find out when the magic will happen.

A long road back to Salem

The journey to a third movie has been almost as chaotic as a Sanderson sisters reunion. Disney first announced Hocus Pocus 3 back in 2023, but the project hit a major snag when studio chief Sean Bailey exited Disney in 2024.

Midler, never one to mince words, voiced her frustration on Busy Philipps’s talk show Busy This Week in July 2024: “Time is not just marching—time is barrel-a**ing to the finish line. Get us while we’re still breathing!”

By October 2025, things were bubbling again. Midler told Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live that she had read a “brilliant” script. And on May 6, 2026, the spell finally broke.

Here’s what’s been confirmed so far

Salem’s favorite witches aren’t the only familiar faces returning. Behind the cauldron, the Hocus Pocus 2 team is back too. Director Anne Fletcher and screenwriter Jen D’Angelo are teaming up again for the threequel, with Disney’s EVP of Production, Jessica Virtue, overseeing the project.

The biggest twist? There are plans for a theatrical release this time around, a major shift after the streaming-only debut of Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney+. That sequel broke records, racking up 2.7 billion minutes viewed during its opening weekend and becoming the most-watched original film on Disney+ in its first three days.

A release date has yet to be announced, but the broomsticks are definitely back in business.

From summer flop to spooky-season staple

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A post shared by Bette Midler (@bettemidler)

It’s wild to remember that the original Hocus Pocus was a flop. The 1993 film was famously released in July (a curious choice for a Halloween movie), opened to a disappointing $8.1 million and earned a one-star review from Roger Ebert, one of the most influential film critics of his era. The Disney film grossed less than $45 million worldwide on a $28 million budget.

But thanks to decades of October replays on Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween,” the film slowly crept into Millennial childhoods and refused to leave. By 2018, the film drew 8.2 million viewers in just the first week of the network’s annual marathon. Suddenly, October just didn’t feel like October without it.

Now, more than 30 years after Winifred first declared, “Oh, look, another glorious morning. Makes me sick!” the witches are coming back. And honestly? It’s about time.

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Sources:

• Deadline: “‘Hocus Pocus 3’ In The Works; Bette Midler, SJP & Kathy Najimy Back”
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Bette Midler on ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ Script: ‘Very Excited’”
• Variety: “‘Hocus Pocus 3’ Officially in the Works With Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy Returning”
• SlashFilm: “Tales From The Box Office: How Hocus Pocus Went From Flop To Halloween Cult Classic”
• BroadwayWorld: “HOCUS POCUS on Freeform Reaches 8.2 Million Viewers in Its First Week”

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“I just screamed,” the mom of three says. “I’ve had voice problems in the past, so I don’t scream. I don’t even remember the last time I allowed myself to—but this one had just come out. I was so elated.” It was a joyous moment after a year marked by the painful loss of her husband, Uche, and, months later, her beloved grandmother. She began writing the book a couple of years before Uche became ill and completed it after he passed—a promise she made from his hospital room.

Jones got the idea for the book after watching NBA all-star Steph Curry linger after a Today segment, shaking hands and taking time with everyone he met. His kindness stayed with her, and the moment got her thinking: What’s the secret of the mothers behind some of the most beloved people in the world today? How did they raise such remarkable humans?

One answer she kept hearing: Listen, and be fully present. Jones saw that firsthand growing up—she recalls proudly telling her grandmother, who had just picked her up from school, that she’d switched into an easier class. “She turned the music down and drove me right back to school to make sure I took the harder class,” she says. “The next day we were learning Beowulf. I remember thinking, Oh, me and my mouth. I talk for a living—and it really did help shape the trajectory of my education. Thank God she listened to me that day. It changed my life.”

Jones is also quick to note that it’s not just mothers and grandmothers: “We have other women in our lives who pour into us, whether it’s an auntie who may not have children or a Sunday school teacher,” she says. “It’s anyone who nurtures a child and is present in the life of a child.”

We caught up with Jones to discuss her insightful and timely new book about moms. Read on as she reflects on her own journey through grief, growth and motherhood.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Reader’s Digest: Your book—which just hit No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list—has been eight years in the making. How did it all start?

Sheinelle Jones: I started the series when I was new at Today back in 2018. When you get there, you realize everybody has a lane. I started thinking, What’s my thing? If I were to take my truth and wrap my job or purpose around it, what would that look like? I’ve always wanted to be a mom. Before I was a mom, I was everyone’s nanny. I’ve always loved kids. And I thought if I could pour into women, I’m also helping kids.

I remember watching Steph Curry [off set] when no one was watching. He was shaking hands and signing autographs. Just a really nice guy. And I thought, What did his mother feed him? I laughed because everyone else is looking at the celebrity, and I’m over here with three kids at home, wondering if I’m doing it right.

So I started the series “Through Mom’s Eyes,” and Steph’s mom, Sonya Curry, was my first “yes.” After talking with her about the good times, the challenging times and what she would do differently, I realized this was really cool. I was getting wisdom about raising kids, but also for myself as a woman. Then it became Shaq’s mom, Lady Gaga, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kevin Durant.

Reader’s Digest: You’ve got such a mix of moms in the book: Oracene Price, Serena and Venus Williams’s mom; Kay McConaughey, Matthew McConaughey’s mom; Denise Jonas, the Jonas brothers’ mom. What was the process of putting together all of their stories?

Sheinelle Jones: Honestly, I didn’t hold back. Any mom I talked to, I learned something from. I would’ve done more—it’s just that once my husband, Uche, got sick, I could only do so much.

Every woman I’ve talked to, I’ve walked away with something valuable to share—whether it’s about the X’s and O’s of parenting, chores and no chores, discipline, divorce (because my mom’s been divorced twice), faith—all of these themes. Sure, it is that. But really, I walked away in awe of their resilience and strength.

There are so many things that women do and we almost take it for granted. Maybe on Mother’s Day we say thank you, but these women poured themselves into these folks. We see the musician, the concerts, the Academy Awards—but I know, because I have two boys who play soccer—you don’t get Saturday mornings for a decade or two. These women poured into them for so long.

Reader’s Digest: They also shared what they would have done differently.

Sheinelle Jones: Most of them talk about how if they could do anything differently, it would be to continue to pour into themselves and their own dreams. Wanda Durant talked about hiding behind her kids for years. Shaq’s mom got her degree in her 40s. So it’s never too late. Yes, I’m talking to moms, but I’m also talking to women, reminding them to take care of themselves and not forget their own dreams.

Reader’s Digest: So much happened in your personal life during the time you put together your book. As your husband, Uche, was battling brain cancer, he made sure you kept writing.

Sheinelle Jones: The book was supposed to come out last April. But after he was diagnosed and went into hospice, there was no way I could have a book come out at that time, so I tabled it. After he passed, it was already finished, but I felt like I couldn’t write a book about motherhood from an honest place without acknowledging the biggest rock of my life and motherhood journey. I went back and rewrote the beginning and the end.

Right after his first brain surgery, he asked me, “Where’s your laptop?” And I was like, “What?” That was the last thing I cared about at that time. But ultimately, he wanted me to keep going. He didn’t want me to stop my dreams. I kept my promise.

Reader’s Digest: Your grandmother was such a big inspiration to you, and you lost her last year too. What did it mean to you that she got to read parts of your book?

Sheinelle Jones: My grandmother lived in Wichita, Kansas, and would say, “Send me the chapters as you get them done.” I would send her chapters off my computer. She wrote a memoir when I was in high school, and it’s in libraries in my hometown. I feel like I am on her shoulders in that regard. She was my biggest cheerleader. But it’s hard because when I found out I made the New York Times bestseller list, No. 1, my first calls would’ve been to Uche and Grandmama. But I talk about them in the book, and it’s clearly in their honor.

Reader’s Digest: Do you have a favorite story from one of the moms you interviewed?

Sheinelle Jones: That’s like picking a favorite child. Kay McConaughey was the funniest to me—unapologetically feisty, in her 80s, still dreaming. She joked about wanting to be a Golden Girl and asked if I knew a casting agent, and I realized she wasn’t kidding. I loved that she was still wanting to do new things and challenge herself.

Alma Wahlberg is one I’ll forever cherish. I remember walking up to her house and thinking, Oh, my God, if my younger self knew I was at the New Kids on the Block’s mom’s house. She shared funny stories about raising her boys, but also her struggles. She was funny, but also very vulnerable. She shared journal entries with me. After that interview, I was so moved, I think I missed my flight. She reminded me that even through tough times, even if your child messes up or embarrasses you, we love our kids through it. I didn’t want to write a book where everything is perfect—it’s not that at all.

Reader’s Digest: Has writing this book changed you?

Sheinelle Jones: I’m more unapologetic about what I want to do, what I don’t want to do and where I give my time. After interviewing so many women who wish they had done that sooner, shame on me if I don’t apply it. I’ve dealt with one of the worst things that could happen, so I move with more clarity. After loss, everything feels more vivid. And as it pertains to this book, what a gift it is to have children and to be a mother.

Reader’s Digest: After taking in what these moms told you, what does being a good mom mean to you now?

Sheinelle Jones: Being more intentional and as present as possible. I slow down more. I’ll get in bed with my daughter or call my kids into the kitchen while I’m cooking chicken tenders. I’m more intentional with eye contact and asking how they feel. There’s no template. Some of my strongest memories with my mom were if I got in trouble. I would wait on the edge of the bathtub for her to come in and talk to me. Looking back, I realize I valued that one-on-one time. That connection mattered.

Reader’s Digest: What do you wish moms would do for themselves?

Sheinelle Jones: Just give themselves grace. Without a gift or a holiday, allow yourself a moment to be proud of how far you’ve come. We’re doing the best we can. Really feel that—not just say it.

Reader’s Digest: How do you stay resilient on hard days?

Sheinelle Jones: I struggle. I was crying three hours ago because I forgot to register my son for soccer tryouts. But I’ve learned that emotions are like waves—[they] will pass. So I don’t run from feeling sad. I let myself feel it, breathe, hold on and know it will pass.

Reader’s Digest: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

Sheinelle Jones: That motherhood—and life—is a gift, even on the hard days, and that we’re not alone in it.

Reader’s Digest: You all seem like a very tight-knit family on Today and have been through a lot ups and downs recently. How are you all doing?

Sheinelle Jones: I’m so proud of us. I mean that with such sincerity. I’m so proud of our resilience and our faith and our sisterhood. I say sisterhood, but there’s also brotherhood with Craig and Al and Carson. They have become family. And it’s not for the cameras. It’s not like people knew that Al helped me on mornings, bringing sandwiches to my kids when they were in the hospice with their dad. That is because we’re family. And I think we’re fiercely protective of each other.

Reader’s Digest: Are you going to do a sequel to the book? Is there another topic or project you have on the horizon?

Sheinelle Jones: It’s like the “next thing.” You know what it reminds me of? When Uche and I were together for 20 years before we got married. I was 19 when we met. As soon as we got married, it was like, “When are you going to have kids?” And then when you have the first kid, it’s like, “Oh, when are you going to have another?” And then I had twins. If we’re not careful, we’re constantly wishing for the next.

A huge part of my book is to not wish the moment away. I want to practice that now, in real time. I’m going to try to be so hyper-present and grateful and thankful. I’ve been through so much that I think I owe it to myself to do what I’m asking the other moms to do, which is just to be fully in it and to enjoy it. And hopefully if I move in that way, the next move will be a bit clearer.

Reader’s Digest: On the day your book launched, your kids—Kayin, Uche and Clara Josephine—surprised you on set with flowers and a framed quote of one of your grandmother’s sayings: “I’m doing the best I can by the light I have to see by.” What was that moment like for you?

Sheinelle Jones: My grandmother had so many sayings and quotes, and she would say them several times a day. You couldn’t have a phone conversation with my grandmother without all of those sayings. And that’s one of them. She would say it in funny times, and she would say it in tough times. I’m looking at the quote in my office now. Grandmama would just be over the moon. I talked to her every day.

When Uche got sick, there were times when I didn’t talk to her as much because we were in it and I didn’t want to worry her, but she knew. She was at his service. The last picture I have of us alone together, she was wiping away my tears. I wouldn’t be here without her. She was 96. People say, “Oh, she lived a long, full life.” She did, but anyone who’s lost someone knows it still hurts.

Reader’s Digest: What advice would you give someone who wants to know how to start writing about their family’s memories?

Sheinelle Jones: I wish I would have done it sooner. I talked to my grandfather only one time [about his personal stories and memories]. He was a trailblazer in medicine, he was one of the only physicians of color in my hometown and his father was a physician. The fact that I’m telling you my grandfather’s father was a physician as an African American man at that time—it was huge. I know now there were so many stories that he could have shared. If you have relatives who have stories to share, even if it’s just taking out your phone in a voice memo … I always thought I had more time.

Even if we don’t ever want to publish it, but we just want it for the sake of family history, I would strongly encourage people to get their phone, call their oldest living relative and just sit down and ask: What was their favorite thing to read? What was their favorite thing to do? Next thing you know, you’re hearing about some book that you’d never heard of that you go to your library and find. And we just never thought to ask Aunt Susie what was the book that she read in school or what was her favorite game. There’s just so much wisdom and depth in the people around us and especially in our elders. I just think a lot of that goes untapped.

Sheinelle Jones’s book, Through Mom’s Eyes: Simple Wisdom from Mothers Who Raised Extraordinary Humans, is available now.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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But just when passengers thought airline perks couldn’t shrink any further, Delta Air Lines has announced yet another onboard change that could make you want to fly Delta a little less frequently. Ahead, find out everything you need to know about the latest changes to Delta’s snack and beverage service. We’ll also reveal when they go into effect, so keep reading.

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How is Delta changing its food and beverage service?

The airline announced it is ending complimentary snack and beverage service in the economy cabin on flights under 350 miles. Yep, two years after ending free snack and beverage service on all flights under 250 miles, Delta is making yet another cut. This won’t affect everyone, though: Flights with first-class seating will continue to receive full service, a Delta spokesperson told CBS News.

Previously, Delta provided an Express Service option in economy classes—including water, coffee, tea and limited snacks—on flights greater than 250 miles but less than 500 miles. That’s going away entirely. With this new change, about 9% of Delta’s approximately 5,500 daily flights (roughly 495 flights) will have no economy service at all.

Which flights will get food and beverage service?

While Delta is cutting service from short flights, it’s adding full beverage and snack service for economy classes, aka Delta Comfort and Delta Main, on flights that are 350 miles or more. That means 14% of daily flights are gaining full-service options, including drinks and sweet and savory snacks.

Despite the changes to Delta’s short-haul food and beverage service, long-haul flights are staying exactly the same, at least for now. That means international flights will continue to offer full-service options, including special meals, like kosher and gluten-free. And first-class passengers can still enjoy a Shake Shack burger on many Delta flights.

Why is the company making this change?

According to a Delta spokesperson who spoke with the New York Times, the change is being made to “create a more consistent experience” across Delta’s network. “Even on the small number of flights without beverage service, our crew will continue to be visible, available and focused on caring for our customers, like they do on every flight.”

When does this go into effect?

If you have any short-haul travel planned with Delta in the coming days, indulge in free snacks and drinks while you can because Delta’s new policy goes into effect beginning May 19, 2026.

So which airlines will serve you food and drinks?

Delta may have discontinued free snacks and drinks on many of its short-haul flights, but there are still plenty of other airlines that are happy to serve you fun-size snacks and soft drinks to your heart’s content. American Airlines still provides free snacks and nonalcoholic drinks in all cabins on flights over 250 miles, as does United on all flights over 300 miles. Southwest follows suit, delivering free snacks and nonalcoholic drinks on select flights over 251 miles.

What are people saying about Delta’s service changes?

Naturally, some frequent fliers are less than thrilled about the change, and they’re not shy about sharing those feelings on the internet.

• “In the grand scheme of things, this is an insignificant reminder of how insignificant you are to large corporations,” said one Reddit user. “You will pay more. You will get less.”
• “How close are we to going row by row asking everyone to kick in a few bucks for gas?” quipped another.

But not everyone is concerned about it, especially considering how short the flight times actually are.

• “I looked it up and that’s an average of a 40-50 minute flight,” said a third Reddit user. “Honestly it’s not the end of the world. You’ll be off the flight before they could have started handing out the snacks.”
• “I fly all the time and this doesn’t bother me a bit,” another added. “Who cares if you get a free water on a 35 minute flight?”

If you do happen to find yourself on a short Delta flight, springing for a premium class of service just for the snacks is definitely not worth your hard-earned dollars. You’re better off bringing your own snacks. After all, Costco sells the same Biscoff cookies at a pretty great price. It’s cheaper than upgrading your seat, that’s for sure.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• The New York Times: “Delta Will Stop Serving Snacks and Drinks on Short Flights”
• CBS News: “Delta ending food and beverage service on shorter flights”
• Business Traveler: “Delta Drops ‘Express’ In-Flight Service on Short Flights”
• Reddit: “Delta cuts food and beverage service on short flights”
• Delta: “Food & Beverage”

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Now, there’s another human on the way, and we can’t wait to see the first picture—and, of course, the occasional snap of him or her growing up. But who are the lucky parents, and when is the royal baby due? Read on to find out!

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How is the royal family expanding?

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A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)

Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, are expecting a baby! The exciting news was shared on Eugenie’s Instagram as well as the royal family’s Insta account, along with a sweet picture of the couple’s sons, August, 5, and Ernst, 2, holding an ultrasound photo of the new addition.

While Eugenie simply wrote “Baby Brooksbank due 2026!” (followed by hearts and a baby emoji), the official royal account added that August and Ernest are “very excited to have another sibling join the family” and “His Majesty The King has been informed and is delighted with the news.”

The announcement came just a few days after Eugenie’s husband celebrated his 40th birthday (with, we assume, alcohol-free bubbly for his wife). The baby is due this summer, though no specific date was given.

Is this the couple’s first child?

No. Eugenie and Jack already have two children. Their eldest son, August, was born on Feb. 9, 2021, and his younger brother, Ernest, arrived on May 30, 2023. Soon, the boys will be big brothers to a new little boy or girl.

While the princess and her husband tend to keep family matters private, Eugenie did open up about life as a mom in the Lessons from Our Mothers podcast in May 2025. Discussing struggles many non-royal mothers can surely relate to, she admitted she was always “trying to be perfect” as a mother and felt “guilt” when she didn’t “hit the mark.”

In the same interview, she also confessed that she knows the challenges of balancing family and work life all too well. Eugenie, who is the associate director of the modern art gallery Hauser & Wirth in London, said she found it hard “not being there the whole time or missing out on a moment.” She also revealed that, just like us commoners, she sometimes loses her temper at home when she’s stressed out—and then immediately feels bad about it.

Where does Eugenie fall in the royal line—and how about her baby?

Princess Eugenie is currently 12th in line to the throne, while her third baby will be 15th (so, realistically, neither will actually ever get the job). Eugenie is the daughter of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, who was stripped of his title over his close relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, aka Fergie, who is currently in hiding after her part in the scandal came to light.

The soon-to-be mother of three is also the granddaughter of King Charles. Considering all the negative headlines Eugenie’s parents have generated, it seems safe to say that the monarch is probably thrilled to welcome a new great-grandchild—and also that there is some good news for a change from that side of the family.

Eugenie’s husband, Jack Brooksbank, whom she met while skiing in Verbier, Switzerland, in 2010, and married in October 2018, is a commoner working in marketing for Discovery Land Company, a real estate development corporation operating around the world.

Where will the new royal baby grow up?

It seems he or she will live quite a jet-set life from Day 1. Eugenie, Jack and their two sons currently split their time between the U.K. and Portugal. Their London home is Ivy Cottage, a three-bedroom on the grounds of Kensington Palace. Despite the fancy address, it is quite modest compared to other royal estates, including the one Kate and William chose as their forever home—Ivy Cottage was originally constructed to house palace staff.

The (for now) four-piece family doesn’t live there full time, though. Because of Jack’s job, they also spend a significant portion of the year in Portugal, where they own a villa on the Alentejan Coast, a holiday favorite among the rich and famous.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of stories on the British royal family, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating facets of the monarchy. We regularly cover topics including the latest royal news, the history and meaning behind time-honored traditions, and the everyday quirks of everyone’s favorite family members, from Queen Elizabeth’s daily snack to Prince William’s confessions about his home life. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece on the new royal baby, Astrid Hofer tapped her experience as a London-based journalist with more than 20 years of experience covering topics including the British royal family. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Instagram: “The Royal Family”
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• The Independent: “Princess Eugenie expecting third child this summer, Buckingham Palace announces”
• Lessons from Our Mothers: “Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice: ‘We’d have to do 10 of these recordings to really get into the many different things she’s done for us” (May 3, 2025)
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The American Library Association (ALA) recently announced that Sold, published in 2006, was the most challenged book of 2025. It has been on the ALA’s list for the past two years, ranking eighth in 2024 and 10th in 2023, because of claims that it’s sexually explicit. It has also appeared on PEN America’s Index of School Book Bans since 2021, peaking in 2024, when it was the second-most-banned book of the year.

According to the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, more than two-thirds of challenges resulted in a library ban last year. Reader’s Digest sat down with McCormick to find out what it’s like being one of the most-banned authors in America and why those who challenge Sold are missing the point.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Reader’s Digest: How would you describe Sold to someone who hasn’t read the book?

Patricia McCormick: It’s a book about child trafficking. It’s based on research that I did in the brothels in India, up in the hillsides in Nepal [and] in the jail in Nepal. It traces the journey of one 13-year-old girl—who’s a fictional character but based on many interviews that I did—whose family unwittingly sells her, thinking that they’re sending her off to the city for a good job, and it turns out that she’s been sold into a brothel.

Reader’s Digest: What made you write a book on child trafficking?

Patricia McCormick: Sold is almost 20 years old, and at the time, child trafficking wasn’t understood in the way it is now. I had seen some really good journalism about the issue of trafficking, but I thought, somebody needs to write this story from a girl’s point of view because I think sometimes those big-issue stories harden our hearts a little bit. They make us feel like the world is really a rotten place, and it’s too daunting to deal with.

But I think if you read the story of one individual or one character, it opens your heart. And I specifically chose to do it because I wanted to be part of the solution. I wanted to use the platform that I had to call attention to this issue.

I also specifically wanted to write it for young adults, because that’s who’s being trafficked, and I’m a big believer that kids in the United States, which is my main audience, do care about what’s happening to their peers in other parts of the world. And I also feel as though it opens up an opportunity to talk about issues of sexual exploitation in a broader sense in the classroom.

Reader’s Digest: Did your experience as a journalist help inform the way you researched Sold?

Patricia McCormick: Very much. I had different people connect me with aid organizations who were doing health care work or child care in the brothels, getting kids to go to school, getting nutrition for the children who are born to the women who work there. And so they connected me and got me into places I would never have been able to get into on my own.

Also, I’ve spent a lot of my career interviewing people who have experienced trauma, and so I have some insights and techniques for helping people tell difficult stories. Most of the women that I interviewed for this book were in their late teens, so they were girls, and I spent days just building trust with them, just hanging around for five days, showing that I wasn’t going to be one of those people who jets in and jets out again.

Reader’s Digest: This is not the first time that Sold has been challenged or banned. When did that start?

Patricia McCormick: I’m not sure that I know. The funny thing is that you don’t always know when your book is challenged. I’m pretty far removed from where the actual challenges take place.

Back in the old days, it was a parent who came in and said, “I’m not comfortable with my child reading this book. This is too advanced for him or her.” Then things started to change with the campaign by Moms for Liberty, and they targeted a number of books.

They send out what I think is called a “tip sheet,” and all a local Moms for Liberty chapter member has to do is go to the school board and stand up and read from the tip sheet saying, “This book is pornographic, this book is obscene, this book is sexually explicit. And I’m going to read to you a page from the book.” So it’s out of context, and it’s not even parents. These aren’t people who have read the book, who want to protect their own kids. They want to enforce their point of view on everybody else.

And yes, if you take one page [of Sold] out of context—if you take that one page where this young girl is having her first sexual encounter against her will—it is disturbing. It’s supposed to be, it should be, but it’s not graphic.

I am very aware that I’m writing for other people’s children, and I’m also very aware that this character is 13 years old and very naive and innocent, so she wouldn’t use graphic language. There’s no body parts or anything dirty or smutty or pornographic. It’s from her very blinkered point of view, which is, “I’m scared, I’m bewildered, I’ve been betrayed, I’m confused, I’m in pain.” And yes, that’s disturbing, but it’s carefully done so that even though it’s a brutal experience, I don’t use brutal language.

Reader’s Digest: So it started out being parents approaching school boards, and now it’s more of an organized effort?

Patricia McCormick: Yes.

Reader’s Digest: Why do you think Sold is being targeted 20 years after it was published?

Patricia McCormick: I find that so mysterious and confusing. I have engaged with book banners. I have gotten in touch with Moms for Liberty—the national organization, the Utah chapter. I’ve spoken with the head of the Alabama School Library Board, different people who oppose the book, and they say that it is robbing kids of their innocence, and it’s robbing parents of their control over what kids read.

All of them have told me that the book has literary merit and merit as an awareness-raising tool. But they have taken this book and this passage, in particular, and used it, to my mind, like a weapon. I’ve talked with the Moms for Liberty, and they have openly said to me that these scenes depicting unpleasant sexual experiences for young girls will make them gay.

Reader’s Digest: Wait, what?

Patricia McCormick: They say that it will make them not want to have sex with men. That it makes sex—which is, in the context of a loving relationship, a good thing—really scary. I was dumbfounded by that—that there’s some way in which this is part of some gay agenda, and that couldn’t be further from my mind.

I think it’s also surprising because this part of our political spectrum has typically included people who are fighting trafficking. This is the part of the political spectrum that’s all about “release the Epstein files, protect our kids from predators,” while at the same time, here’s a book that is actually about trafficking, that will inform young people about what’s going on, will give them a chance to speak in their classroom about trafficking—whether it’s with the way it happens in India or the way it happens in the United States—and they want to get that book out of the classroom. I am absolutely perplexed.

Reader’s Digest: What does it feel like to have your book challenged or banned?

Patricia McCormick: It’s really frustrating. But it’s really not about me at all. It’s about the women who put themselves in harm’s way to tell their story for the benefit of others. It’s about the kids in the classroom who need a book like this.

What I find in classrooms so often, after the kids have read this book, is that somebody in the classroom will say something like “this happened to me” or “I’m being sexualized against my will in my home.” That there’s something about talking about an experience that’s really far away from your own, that allows you to say, “I’m in distress too. I need help too.”

I can’t tell you how many times it’s happened. I always brace for the other kids in the classroom to laugh or misbehave in some way with somebody who gives that kind of really personal information, and every single time, their peers will be sympathetic. I’ve had kids give other kids a standing ovation for speaking out in class about what’s happening to them at home.

Kids who’ve read the book have become activists. They’ve raised money and done awareness-raising campaigns about trafficking because they read the book. So we’re depriving kids who need the book from seeing themselves in a story like this. We’re depriving them of an opportunity for help, or depriving the other kids of an opportunity to show empathy or activism. And generally, it’s depriving kids of information that they need to face the world as it is.

But it’s the librarians and the teachers who are really caught in the middle with this. I visited a school in New Jersey last week and mentioned Sold, and the kids afterward are saying, “Oh, I want to read that book.” And the librarian was like, “I don’t know if I can bring this into the school and keep my job.”

All the teachers and librarians who just don’t bring the book in at all—there’s a chilling effect that this has, not just with my book, but with any tricky book. It’s self-censorship in a way, or preemptive censorship to say, “That’s going to get me in hot water, so I’m not even going to buy the book. I’m not even going to try to bring it in.”

Reader’s Digest: What do we lose when we ban or challenge a book like yours?

Patricia McCormick: I think we lose a portal to understanding experiences that are not like ours. Books are a passport to find out about experiences beyond the borders of our neighborhood, of our experience, of our imagination. A book like this really opens people’s eyes, and we lose the opportunity to have a really spirited conversation about “What’s good about this book? What’s bad about this book? Should we have this in the classroom? Is this OK for eighth graders? Is this better for ninth graders?”

We lose the chance for people to become activists if they are excited by a topic in a book like this. And we lose authors. There’s a chilling effect on authors who will say, “Oh, I’d better not write that book. I’d better not spend the next two years of my life working on that passion project because it’s going to be banned.”

And I think for somebody like me—straight, white, older—my identity isn’t bound up in this book the same way as some of my friends and colleagues who are gay and have a calling to write about issues that have to do with sexual identity.

In a way, I can pivot. I can write about anything, but the fierce need that you have to write about your own experience is really shut down when books are banned like this. People of color, all the marginalized writers that we worked so hard to elevate in these past 20 years, are finding, suddenly, that the publishing world is unwelcome to them.

Reader’s Digest: How does banning your book keep it from the readers who need it the most?

Patricia McCormick: I think it creates this kind of blackout. Like, you don’t know you need a book like this until it’s in your hands. And I don’t think kids seek this book out. Like, Oh, I’m gonna learn about sex by reading this book. This is not that kind of book.

But I think that we all read to see ourselves in books, see our own experiences or see some reflection of ourselves in a book. And often you don’t know it until you’re reading that book, or until someone else introduces it to you or a teacher assigns it to you. Teachers are masters at guiding kids’ curiosity and guiding them into new waters, and we need that. That’s what they’re trained for, and we should trust them.

Reader’s Digest: What’s your take on the current state of book banning? 

Patricia McCormick: My view is that it’s gotten worse, and it’s getting worse, and that the book banners are more punitive than they’ve ever been.

There’s a library in Alabama, Fairhope Library, and they have Sold in the young adult section. They were told by the state library board to move it to a restricted area or the adult section. And [the librarians] said they wouldn’t do that because it creates too much of a barrier for kids who need or want the book.

The state pulled all their funding. They lost $45,000 in funding. That’s not coming back. The library themselves, they’re not backing down. But it used to be that there was a civilized process for a challenge, and now people seem to be going straight for pulling funding, costing people their jobs. There’s a way in which the play is not fair anymore. There’s not an open, honest debate about: Is this a good book? Is this a good piece of literature? Which part of the library does it belong in? There’s so much fear. They’re also bullies.

I visited the Fairhope Library, and there were Moms for Liberty in the audience. And several times I said, “Now, I know that there are some of you here who were active in the banning of this book, and I’d like to hear—because I don’t get this opportunity very often—can you please talk to me about what your thinking is?” No, they left.

Reader’s Digest: You’d think they’d love that opportunity.

Patricia McCormick: Exactly. And when I’ve talked to Moms for Liberty on the phone and on Zoom, they’ll say, “Yeah, this book does have literary merit. We’ll think about it.” And that was three years ago, and now it’s more banned than ever. So there’s a lack of good faith.

Reader’s Digest: Have you ever read a banned book that really helped you or changed you? 

Patricia McCormick: The Perks of Being a Wallflower was such an important book for me as a writer. I saw what Stephen Chbosky was doing in terms of rendering the real life of high school students. And I thought, Oh, you can do this. You can really go in depth to the darker, more complex parts of being a teenager and render it on the page, and people will be moved or helped by it. That book really inspired me to become a young adult writer.

Rapid response with Patricia McCormick

Reader’s Digest: OK, it’s time for the lightning round. What banned book do you think is a must-read for everybody?

Patricia McCormick: The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Reader’s Digest: What’s the best book you’ve read recently?

Patricia McCormick: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Reader’s Digest: What’s the last book that made you cry?

Patricia McCormick: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Reader’s Digest: Which book do you recommend more often than others?

Patricia McCormick: This Boy’s Life by Tobias Wolff

Reader’s Digest: What book will get anyone out of a reading slump?

Patricia McCormick: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Reader’s Digest: Describe your ideal reading spot.

Patricia McCormick: I have a spot in my home with a very elegant recliner—a La-Z-Girl. It doesn’t look like one of those big, beefy leather recliners. It’s quite chic, and it’s right in front of my fireplace. It looks out the window. I have a little table next to me for my tea. You can find me there many, many an evening.

Reader’s Digest: Is there anything else you’d like to mention?

Patricia McCormick: Support libraries and librarians however you can. They are so under fire, and they are so valuable to a thinking society, a just society, an informed society., And it just strikes me as tragic that they’re in the middle of this.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’ve been sharing our favorite books for over 100 years. We’ve worked with bestselling authors including Susan Orlean, Janet Evanovich and Alex Haley, whose Pulitzer Prize–winning Roots grew out of a project funded by and originally published in the magazine. Through Fiction Favorites (formerly Select Editions and Condensed Books), Reader’s Digest has been publishing anthologies of abridged novels for decades. We’ve worked with some of the biggest names in fiction, including James Patterson, Ruth Ware, Kristin Hannah and more. The Reader’s Digest Book Club, helmed by Books Editor Tracey Neithercott, introduces readers to even more of today’s best fiction by upcoming, bestselling and award-winning authors. For this piece, Elizabeth Yuko tapped her experience as a journalist to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• American Library Association: “American Library Association releases 2025 Most Challenged Books List as National Library Week Begins”
• American Library Association: “Most Challenged Books”
• PEN America: “PEN America index of school book bans – 2024-2025”
• American Library Association: “American Library Association kicks off National Library Week with the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024 and the State of America’s Libraries Report”

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The post Patricia McCormick Wrote the Most-Challenged Book in America. Here’s What She Says Everyone Should Know About Book Banning appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Formerly known as the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit, the annual event is held on the first Monday in May. And unlike the Oscars, it’s only gaining in zeitgeist-y popularity. After all, you likely can’t recite who won the Oscar Best Actress in 2022, but you do recall that, a few months later, Kim Kardashian slinked into Marilyn Monroe’s iconic 1962 “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” gown.

But how did the Met Gala get its start, and how did it become the spectacle it is today? Hint: It goes back a lot further than you probably think, and the person you likely think is responsible for it actually isn’t! In honor of the 2026 edition on May 4, whose theme is “Costume Art,” we’ve compiled the most interesting facts, the most fabulous fashion and the biggest controversies from the Met Gala. Read on for all the details.

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1. The very first Met Gala was in 1948

Fashion’s biggest night started with a midnight dinner in December 1948 that cost $50 to attend. (For those of you trying to do the mental math, that was 78 years ago.) Eleanor Lambert, a fashion publicist who helped launch New York Fashion Week, envisioned the event as a way to fundraise for the Met’s two-year-old Costume Institute and fete the opening of its annual exhibit.

Billed as “The Party of the Year,” the exclusive event took place at the Waldorf Astoria, and guests wore formal attire. Who were those guests? New York City socialites, philanthropists and fashion-industry bigwigs. That’s right—there wasn’t a celebrity or a red carpet in sight.

After the inaugural event, the late-night suppers were also held at other New York City venues, such as Central Park and Rockefeller Center’s Rainbow Room. This pingponging between event spaces lasted until 1971. The gala took up official residence at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1972.

2.  A fashion icon gave it a facelift … but not the one you probably think

After being let go from her role as the editor-in-chief of Vogue in 1971, Diana Vreeland joined the Met Gala’s event committee as a consultant and shifted the big night into the spotlight. Under her guidance, the Met Gala changed from a snobby society gathering to an annual themed bash that actually took place at the Met—with a dinner inside the Medieval Sculpture Hall. (How cool!)

Celebrities including Liza Minnelli, Diana Ross, Elton John and Elizabeth Taylor (among many, many others) soon joined the fun, with photographers snapping every arrival. Vreeland even convinced her friend Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to serve as co-chair of the gala in 1976 and 1977. Vreeland was involved until her death in 1989.

3. Anna Wintour took it to the next level

Not only does the legendary Vogue editor-in-chief serve as the inspiration for Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, but she’s also responsible for wielding her power and connections to elevate the Met Gala into a global sensation. Wintour first co-chaired in 1995, which meant invitees included supermodels Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss, along with designers Gianni Versace and Karl Lagerfeld. Princess Diana attended one year later, further cementing its status.

Wintour took over as chairperson in 1999 and has overseen the gala (and the guest list) ever since. Now, top-tier Hollywood stars mix with politicians and athletes and cultural figures, and celebrity co-hosts such as Zendaya and Jennifer Lopez tend to later appear on the cover of Vogue. (FYI, Zendaya won’t be at this year’s event, reportedly because she has a press-heavy schedule this spring.)

4. The themes are chosen by committee

Ever since “The World of Balenciaga” in 1973, attendees are encouraged to adhere to the night’s annual theme to pay tribute to the Costume Institute’s accompanying exhibition. Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute chief curator, told Vogue France in 2020 that the theme is intended to generate controversy: “I think it’s important to stimulate debate to put ideas out there that are difficult to deal with or seen as problematic. That’s the role of any museum: to expand people’s ideas about a topic through objects.”

He and his team come up with the idea up to a year in advance but must present it to the museum’s director and president for approval. Wintour gives the final green light. Some of the more provocative recent ones include “Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy” (2008), “Punk: Chaos to Couture” (2013) and “Camp: Notes on Fashion” (2019). For the “Camp” theme, Lady Gaga donned a pink cape dress with a bow and a 25-foot train that required a team of dancers helping her up the steps. As for Kim Kardashian’s Marilyn Monroe moment? That was for 2022’s “In America: An Anthology of Fashion.”

There was no theme in 1991, 2000 or 2002.

5. Cher delivered one of the night’s most controversial (and influential) fashion moments

Back in 1974, Cher shook up the stuffy status quo by pioneering the “naked dress.” For that year’s theme, “Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design,” the star arrived with designer Bob Mackie in a sheer, jewel-encrusted jumpsuit with head-to-toe feathered fringe. “The place went crazy,” Mackie told Interview of the frock that Cher picked out herself. “I’ve never seen so many photographers come out of the shadows of the Met and take her picture … but it was amazing. People were horrified—they thought, That’s not fashion.”

While Cher might have been the first celeb to don the “naked dress” at the Met Gala, she certainly wasn’t last. Blake Lively (Chanel in 2011), Beyoncé (Givenchy in 2015), Kendall Jenner (Givenchy in 2021) and Elle Fanning (Balmain in 2024) are a few A-listers who’ve modeled their own versions.

6. You can’t buy a ticket—and some celebrities can’t go even if they want to

Sorry, but even great Vogue connections won’t necessarily get you into that museum hall. The gala is by invite-only and consists of about 450 or so guests. And yes, Wintour is hard-core about who makes the list. She confirmed in 2017 that Donald Trump would never be invited back (he hasn’t attended since 2012). And Project Runway co-host/mentor Tim Gunn said in 2016 that he was banned after publicly expressing his shock at once seeing Wintour “being carried down five flights of stairs by two bodyguards—two big hulking men—from a fashion show.” FYI, the Friends cast members have also never attended the event. For reasons unknown.

7. It can cost up to six figures to attend the event

Even with the golden ticket, you still have to pay up. The price was reportedly close to $75,000 in 2025 and $100,000 in 2026, with tables of 10 starting at $350,000. However, most celebrities attend free of charge as guests of the brands or design houses (such as Chanel and Gucci) that purchase tables.

So what does all that money get you? Red-carpet access, a cocktail hour (that allows time for guests to walk around the Met’s new costume exhibit) and a formal multicourse dinner capped by a musical performance. For dessert in 2018, per Vogue, guests were served gold-dusted truffles, chocolate-dipped cape gooseberries and an amaretto semifreddo cone topped with a gold pearl. Not bad.

8. There’s always A-list entertainment

You want opera? Go to the other Met in New York City. Only the hottest pop stars put on mini concerts for the guests at the Met Gala. Here’s a fun bit of music trivia: The tradition started in 2010, when Lady Gaga sang “Bad Romance” as part of the year’s “American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity” exhibit. Other performances have included Frank Ocean’s “Super Rich Kids” in 2014, Rihanna doing “B— Better Have My Money” in 2015 and Madonna performing “Like a Prayer” in 2018. In 2024, Ariana Grande did a medley of her hits, like “Into You” and “Seven Rings,” and brought on surprise guest (and Wicked co-star) Cynthia Erivo. Last year, Stevie Wonder and Usher were the headliners.

9. Guests must abide by the rules

What happens at the Met Gala stays at the Met Gala. Well, for the most part. Once guests have entered the museum, they are instructed to abide by a no-phone and no-social-media policy. (Vogue does publish exclusive photos and videos following the event.) However, in 2017, several celebrities and models—including Bella Hadid, Dakota Johnson, Marc Jacobs, Frances Bean Cobain, Paris Jackson, Rami Malek and Behati Prinsloo—broke all the rules. Not only did they smoke in the bathroom (a violation of New York’s Smoke-Free Air Act), but they also posted a series of selfies on Instagram and Snapchat!

10. A movie once recreated the entire event

The 2018 comedy Ocean’s 8 didn’t feature George Clooney or Brad Pitt, but it did boast a fun centerpiece in which the female thieves (played by Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett) pull off a jewel heist at the Met Gala. While the scene was not filmed during the actual live event, the cast and crew did descend on the Met in early 2017. With the permission of Wintour (who makes a cameo), Vogue editors and the museum team, the production recreated the gala by setting up a faux red carpet—hello there, Serena Williams!—and an exhibition using actual museum spaces and a soundstage set. Heidi Klum, Katie Holmes and Tommy Hilfiger also appear in the scene to add to the authenticity.

11. Rihanna is always fashionably late

Last, but never least: Rihanna, the music icon (and Ocean’s 8 co-star) who makes a point to exit her limo at the eleventh hour. Though invitees are instructed to arrive by 8 p.m.-ish for dinner (and the red carpet closes at 9), Wintour has said during her “73 Questions” Vogue interview that Rihanna is the only star allowed to bypass the rule.

In 2025, she showed up at 10 p.m. in a Marc Jacobs bustier-and-suit ensemble to officially reveal her baby bump; she arrived at the same time in 2021 and 2023. However, she did make a prompt appearance in 2018 … when she was an event co-chair and performed. That also happened to be the year she wore a controversial pope-inspired ensemble, complete with a mitre and heavily beaded corset and robe, designed by John Galliano for the “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” theme.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Architectural Digest: “The Met Gala’s Fascinating History in 31 Photos”
• Time: “The History Behind the Met Gala”
• Vogue France: “How the Met Gala Theme Is Decided Each Year”
• Business Insider: “Met Gala Tickets, Which Are Invite-Only, Cost $75,000. Here’s What That Gets Attendees”
• Grazia: “Memories from Met Gala Past: The Cigarettes and Selfies Inside the Bathroom at the 2017 Met Gala”
• Vogue: “Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Met Gala”
• People: “See the 16 Most Controversial Met Gala Looks Ever”
• Slate: “How Ocean’s 8 Put Together a Gala Worthy of a Met”
• People: “A Look at Rihanna’s Fashionably Late Met Gala Appearances (Approved by Anna Wintour)”

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This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 10, and the countdown is officially on. The good news? It doesn’t have to turn into a last-minute scramble. Whether you’re planning ahead or you’ve just realized the day is suddenly very close, our checklist will help you create the perfect Mother’s Day experience. And one important note: Remember that Mother’s Day isn’t just about your mom—it’s for all the moms in your life who deserve a few kind words and a special day.

Read on for a foolproof checklist that will get you on the right track ASAP and help you pull off a thoughtful Mother’s Day.

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Your 2026 Mother’s Day checklist

1. Write a heartfelt note.
   A sweet, personal message from you? Best. Gift. Ever. And the key is to handwrite it. Trust us when we say that this is what she wants most of all—and she’ll treasure it forever. Not sure how to start? Try one of these prompts:
   • One thing you taught me that I still use is … 
   • My favorite memory with you is … 
   • I don’t say this enough, but I appreciate … 
   • You always make me feel …
   • If I could thank you for one thing today, it would be … 
2. Buy a card, and pop it in the mail.
   Pop that personal message in a card—and make sure it gets to her on time. Mail will generally arrive within two days, but giving yourself five to seven days will ensure postal delays don’t mess things up. That puts your ideal mailbox run between May 3 and May 5.
3. Order flowers right now! 
   You don’t need to panic (despite that exclamation point), but you also don’t want to wait. Delivery services book up early, the best blooms sell out, and you could end up paying rush fees if you do this late. Click through to our favorite flower delivery sites right now to make this super easy.
4. Make reservations, or whip up a home-cooked meal.
   Mother’s Day is the busiest restaurant day of the year in the U.S., especially for brunch. If you want a spot she’ll actually enjoy, book it now. Call her favorite place, or find something new through OpenTable or Resy. If you want to go the homemade route, find the perfect recipe, buy the ingredients in advance and make it the night before so you’re not stuck in the kitchen on the big day.
5. Plan a special experience for her—and with her.
   Try a picnic, movie night or spa day. It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just has to be something special that you can do together. But be aware that spa and salon appointments fill up quickly around Mother’s Day, so book now for prime-time availability.
6. Buy or make a gift.
   Don’t underestimate how long shipping can take, especially if you’re ordering a personalized gift. If you’re running even a little late, stick with fast-shipping options from places like Amazon, Target or Walmart. If you have young kids, help them DIY something adorable for their mother and grandmothers.
7. Wrap those gifts ahead of time. 
   Why is this task so easy to forget? We don’t know, but it really is, and that’s why it’s on this checklist!
8. On Mother’s Day, do the “invisible labor” she’d normally handle.
   Dads, this one’s mostly for you. Take note of all the “little” things that need to happen to make the day go smoothly—getting the kids ready (hair brushed, teeth brushed, nice clothes on), tidying up before guests arrive and making sure someone actually takes pictures of the day, to name a few. Then do these things, without making a fuss or requesting her assistance.
9. Make a list of the moms in your life to contact.
   There are many moms in your life, and taking a minute to reach out with a phone call or text to say “Happy Mother’s Day” would mean the world to them. Pro tip: Schedule texts now to arrive on the morning of the 10th. Making a list like this is a good way to ensure you don’t forget anyone who should get more than just a shout-out—like your grandmother, mother-in-law or sister.
10. Set a few reminders for the big day.
    You have the best intentions, we know, but sometimes life gets in the way. Setting calendar alerts now (both on Mother’s Day and the days leading up to it, when you need to complete the tasks noted above) can help keep you on track … and make the special women in your life very happy!

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly was always framed as the villain, but she and the fictional Runway Magazine also reflected a work culture that was very real in the early aughts. And even now, as the sequel is hitting the big screen 20 years later, that old-school mindset of living to work instead of working to live hasn’t disappeared entirely.

But in 2026, the job that once felt aspirational reads more like a warning sign in designer shoes, and I don’t think I’m the only one who’s had that mindset shift. Gen Z didn’t invent buzzwords like burnout and boundaries, but when we started making our way into the workforce, we did force a bigger conversation: Maybe a “dream job” shouldn’t require giving up your life.

According to 2024 data from the Department of Labor, the number of Gen Z workers has now surpassed Baby Boomers, making up almost a fifth (18%) of labor in the U.S. And when that many people show up with different expectations, it gets a lot harder to keep selling the idea that a job like Andy’s is something to aspire to. As a Gen Zer who’s been on both sides of the equation, I know this all too well.

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Why The Devil Wears Prada hits differently now

In case you need a quick refresh and can’t spare the 109-minute runtime for a rewatch (though, really, you should), Andrea “Andy” Sachs is a recent journalism graduate who lands a job as Miranda Priestly’s assistant, only to realize the role demands total availability. Not just long hours, but constant sacrifice too.

Miranda—who was based on legendary Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour—is obviously iconic, which makes it easy to overlook how brutal the job actually is. “By all means, move at a glacial pace” is still one of the best insults ever put to film. But it also captures something real about the culture it reflects. The job keeps demanding proof of Andy’s commitment. Always being on call. Unquestioning compliance. Erasure of herself in service to the company.

Now, don’t get me wrong: I love that glow-up montage of Andy jaywalking her way into a new life as much as the next gal. But the way her life erodes to make room for her job doesn’t seem so glamorous anymore. From where I sit now, it just feels eerily familiar.

Paying my dues meant giving up everything else

Like many young, ambitious people trying to craft a career out of thin air, I found myself willing to put up with quite a lot for the promise of a steady paycheck and health care. My first job out of college was working as a local broadcast news producer, and I quickly realized an old-school “pay your dues” mindset was baked into the industry. Overnight shifts, weekends and holidays were usually staffed with early career newbies like myself, and the ripple effects of a constantly shifting schedule showed up everywhere.

I missed family get-togethers and struggled to make friends or devote time to hobbies. I couldn’t have a life; I had a career. My body felt the toll, and my mental health did too.

In the years since, I’ve seen competitive co-workers, toxic managers and out-of-touch executives. I only wish they dressed as well or sounded as witty as the characters in The Devil Wears Prada. Instead, the reality of that kind of work environment is much uglier. A 2025 report from Aflac found that 72% of U.S. workers experience moderate to high stress, with Gen Z reporting the highest levels of burnout of any generation.

Research shows burnout doesn’t just make work feel harder; it actively affects how people do their jobs. According to a 2024 workforce report from HR software company iSolved, 36% of employees say burnout has directly reduced their productivity and output, while more than half report it lowers their overall engagement.

Rethinking what work should look like

For a long time, that kind of experience felt normal, like something you were supposed to endure if you wanted a real career. But eventually, it stopped feeling like something I was pushing through and started feeling like something I was just stuck in. I didn’t get into journalism because I wanted to miss every holiday or feel exhausted all the time. I wanted to tell stories and build a career I actually liked being in. At a certain point, I had to admit the version of success I was chasing just didn’t feel good.

So I made a shift into digital media. It still used the same skills, but the day-to-day felt different—more manageable and sustainable. For the first time, my job didn’t feel like it was taking over everything else. And I didn’t go freelance to make that happen. I stayed in full-time roles, but I started approaching them differently. It was about figuring out how to build a career within a full-time structure that didn’t require giving up everything else. I got more comfortable setting boundaries, protecting my time off and being honest about what wasn’t working. Earlier in my career, that didn’t feel like an option. Now it feels like something people actually talk about.

The difference showed up quickly. I started going to family events instead of missing them. I had time to make new friends, to have hobbies again, to feel like a person outside of work. And it turns out, having a life didn’t make me less ambitious. If anything, it made me better at what I do. The American Psychological Association’s 2025 Work in America survey supports that: It found that employees who report higher productivity are also more likely to say their workplace supports their mental health and helps them manage stress. In other words, the environments that expect less sacrifice tend to get better results.

How the definition of ambition has changed

One of the laziest takes on Gen Z is that we don’t want to work hard. But that’s never matched what I’ve seen—we’re just redefining what ambition means. We still want to be good at what we do, and we care about our work. But it’s not just about titles and accolades anymore, and certainly not at the expense of a healthy, well-rounded life.

Part of that shift is also practical. Remote, hybrid and more flexible setups are a real option in a way they weren’t before, and I’ve felt that firsthand. Working in digital media has given me more control over how I structure my day, and it’s been wonderful. I’m more focused when I’m working, and I don’t feel like I have to be “on” all the time. It’s not about doing less work; it’s about feeling more balanced.

I asked an expert about this, and she agreed. “Post-pandemic, fewer Gen Zers said they would be willing to work overtime or that they expected work to be a central part of their life,” says Jean Twenge, PhD, a psychology professor at San Diego State University and the author of Generations: The Real Differences between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future. “They are not willing to put in the hours that Boomers did when they were young. Instead, they favor balance and a focus on wellness. Although most want to be successful at work, they place less importance on that and more on having a life outside of work than previous generations did at the same age.”

What I want for the next Andy—and for all of us

It seems fitting that The Devil Wears Prada is getting a sequel nearly 20 years later. That gap is part of what makes the movie feel so different now. Back then, Andy’s job was framed as a necessary trade-off. It was the kind of opportunity you didn’t question, no matter what it asked of you. “A million girls would kill for this job” was the logic behind an entire era of work. Andy’s choice to walk away at the end was radical.

But a lot can change in two decades.

I don’t wish for less ambition for the Andys-to-be out there or even for people who came up in that older mindset. I just wish for a healthier version of it. The kind that can survive stepping away when life happens and doesn’t fall apart the second you stop proving yourself. The kind that knows it’s not worth it, even with the promise of Paris.

Stream it now

The Devil Wears Prada

Rewatch 'The Devil Wears Prada' before you head out to see the sequel!

Watch on Disney+

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Trendlines: “Changes in the U.S. Labor Supply”
• Aflac: “American workforce burnout reaches 6-year high”
• iSolved: “isolved Research: Burnout Eroding Engagement as 8 in 10 Employees Struggle in an Uncertain, Changing Workplace”
• American Psychological Association: “2025 Work in America Survey: The Experience of Working in America During Times of Change”
• Jean Twenge, PhD, psychology professor at San Diego State University and author of Generations: The Real Differences between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future; interviewed, April 2026

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The post I Can’t Believe We All Thought the Crazy Job Culture in <i>The Devil Wears Prada</i> Was OK—Here’s How Work Has Changed for the Better appeared first on Reader's Digest.

That part is expected. What’s easier to miss is how quickly those higher costs spread beyond the pump. Oil prices, explains Aleksandar Tomic, PhD, an economics professor at Boston College, “factor into not just the price of gasoline but also into the price of pretty much all other goods since they have to be delivered somehow.”

Oil also isn’t just fuel. Petrochemicals derived from petroleum are used in more than 6,000 everyday items and account for about 12% of global oil demand, according to the International Energy Agency. Which means that all of these prices go up—and most consumers don’t see it coming. And as consumer-savings expert Andrea Woroch explains, most people are “unaware that some of the items they use on a daily basis use crude oil to produce and manufacture.”

So which of your everyday items will be affected by the war in Iran? And just how much more will you be paying? Brace yourself—and then read on to find out.

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Which surprising items will cost more?

Tomic expects prices on many petroleum-based goods to rise by about 5% to 8%. To put that in concrete numbers: If you normally pay $50 for an affected item, you could soon pay an extra $4 for it—and this could be anything from a jumbo box of diapers to a trendy shirt. It may not sound like a lot at first, especially for lower-cost items, but trust us when we say this adds up, and fast, especially when you’re just trying to afford the basics.

Stuffed animals

That teddy bear is basically oil in disguise. Polyester fiber fill is petroleum-based, and when oil prices rise, so do the costs of producing plastics.

Lipstick and lip balm

Many beauty staples rely on petroleum-derived waxes and emollients. This makes them particularly sensitive to oil-driven manufacturing costs.

Crayons, markers and glue

Crayons are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of—you guessed it—petroleum. The same goes for other school supplies, like markers and glue sticks. They also rely on petroleum-based plastics, adhesives and dyes. Even packaging depends heavily on oil-based plastics.

Fast fashion

The price of your next H&M or Temu fix may be impacted. Tomic points out that “petroleum is a major ingredient in polyester and will drive up the price of such clothing,” especially in budget-friendly brands. And because production is tightly linked to global shipping and energy-intensive manufacturing, oil shocks can ripple quickly through ultra-cheap clothing supply chains.

Takeout and delivery meals

You may want to rethink that DoorDash order—and not just because of the rising price of food. Plastic clamshell containers and sauce cups, delivery bags and utensils all depend on petroleum-based plastics. Restaurants often absorb small increases in packaging costs at first, but as Woroch notes, rising transportation costs are often passed on to the consumer in the form of delivery fees, menu prices or both.

Diapers and baby wipes

These everyday essentials rely on petroleum-derived plastics and super-absorbent materials. Because they’re high-volume, low-margin staples, even small increases in input costs can eventually show up in retail prices.

Fertilizer

Tomic notes a “double hit” here: higher fuel costs for farm equipment, and supply shocks that raise fertilizer prices. Nitrogen-based fertilizers depend heavily on natural gas, tightly linking them to energy markets. The World Bank has documented major spikes in fertilizer prices—often by 20% to 80%—during energy crises such as the 2008 and 2021–2022 crises.

Bottled water and soft drinks

While the liquids themselves aren’t oil-based, the plastic bottles, caps and packaging are. Rising petrochemical costs and transportation expenses can quietly push up prices across the beverage aisle.

Packaged snacks

Snacks get hit from multiple angles: fertilizer, transport and packaging. Woroch notes groceries—especially perishables—are among the first categories where consumers feel the pinch. And the International Monetary Fund notes that energy-price shocks tend to “cascade into processed-food inflation.” Here, we’re talking about chips, chocolate and a whole lot more of our guilty-pleasure snacks.

Condoms

Most condoms are made from latex, but everything around them—from lubricants and packaging to shipping—depends on petrochemicals and global logistics. Malaysia’s Karex Bhd, the world’s largest condom producer (more than 5 billion condoms a year for brands like Durex and Trojan), has said it plans to raise prices by 20% to 30% as the Iran war drives up production and transport costs.

Helium

Sure, we know helium is key to party balloons, but it also has a wide range of critical uses. It is essential in semiconductor manufacturing, which is needed for computers. And in health care, it is vital for MRI machines. It’s also used in fiber optic production, high-performance electronics and other industrial and scientific processes that require inert or ultra-cold conditions.

Though helium is not oil-based, its price is highly sensitive to supply disruptions and transport constraints because it is produced at a small number of global sites and shipped in pressurized containers. In early March, a helium complex in Qatar was shut down after Iranian drone and missile strikes, and as a result, prices rose roughly 20% to 50% in some markets, especially in Asia. While inventories and long-term contracts are still preventing a full shortage, analysts warn that continued disruption could lead to tighter supply in the coming weeks and longer-term export reductions.

When will we start seeing these prices rise?

Not all at once—and not immediately. Gas prices jump fast. Everything else takes a beat. “Companies really dislike raising prices,” says Tomic, “so prices are not so quick to rise,” especially if the shock might pass. But that delay has limits. “Within two months or so, companies really run out of options and end up raising prices,” he says.

Woroch adds that the changes tend to feel incremental: A product might cost “50 cents more or a dollar more,” but across a full shopping trip, the total bill becomes noticeably higher.

Tomic estimates the impact at roughly $50 to $150 for the average household—though depending on what you’re buying, if you’re doing any big home projects and what stage of life you’re in, those extra costs could skyrocket exponentially. And the longer the conflict drags on, he says, “the longer the effects will last.”

Is there anything you can do to avoid these rising prices?

You can’t escape global energy cycles, but you can blunt the impact. Start with the biggest lever: driving less. “The largest impact is reducing gasoline consumption,” says Tomic. Think: taking fewer trips, carpooling or working from home when possible.

From there, Woroch recommends getting sharper about spending. Her advice:

• Track spending and cut back on unnecessary purchases. “Often, people lose track of those small purchases here and there,” she says.
• Use a zero-based budgeting approach. This tracks every dollar you earn so you can understand how exactly you’re using your money.
• Hack monthly bills to reduce or bundle services. Looking at you, streaming services and insurance plans. This way, you’ll have extra room in your budget as prices rise in other areas.
• Get smart about credit cards and rewards. Make the most of rising prices by using a robust cash-back credit card (Woroch recommends the Bread Rewards American Express Credit Card) and tools (like Fetch) that reward you for the purchases you make the most.
• Stick with generics over name brands when possible. If you do this across everyday product categories, from household cleaning supplies to OTC meds, it can save you 20% to 50% in some cases.
• Shop local. Heading to the neighborhood farmers market will reduce transportation-driven price increases.
• Buy secondhand whenever possible. This is especially impactful with clothing, but you’ll also feel it with home goods and toys. “This will be cheaper—up to 80% in some cases!—and you can even sell your own unwanted items to help pay for these like-new purchases,” she says.
• Opt for certified refurbished electronics, appliances or anything with a plug. This can save you up to 60%. “Just make sure you buy from a reputable retailer,” Woroch notes.

For most consumers, the key is not reacting to headlines—it’s understanding which prices are structurally tied to energy markets. As Woroch puts it, many shoppers “may be unaware that some of the items they use on a daily basis use crude oil to produce.” Once you see that connection, the pattern becomes tough to miss.

Because once oil moves, it doesn’t just change what you pay at the pump. It quietly rewrites the price of almost everything.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations, academic institutions and our writers’ personal experiences, where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Aleksandar Tomic, PhD, economist and associate dean at Boston College; email interview, April 27, 2026
• Andrea Woroch, consumer and money-saving expert; email interview, April 27, 2026
• AAA: “Fuel Prices”
• Department of Energy: “Products Made from Oil and Natural Gas”
• FDA: “Cosmetic Ingredients”
• Florida International University: “Pass-Through of Shocks into Different U.S. Prices”
• International Energy Agency: “The Future of Petrochemicals”
• International Monetary Fund: “Understanding Inflation Dynamics: The Role of Global Shocks in CEMAC”
• Bloomberg: “Pricier Condoms Show War Is Impacting Cost of Nearly Everything”
• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development: “Global Plastics Outlook”
• World Bank Group: “Commodity Markets Outlook”
• Exiger: “Iran War Disrupts One-Third of Global Helium Supply”

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The post 11 Surprising Things That Will Be More Expensive Because of the War in Iran appeared first on Reader's Digest.

It happened to be a Friday, and downtown San Francisco was buzzing. I grabbed a cookie from a corner bakery and headed to the train, taking in the Bay and the cliffside neighborhoods between downtown San Fran and the suburb where I still felt like a newbie after relocating a few years ago. The way the sun hovered behind the pine trees, just over the hill—

Wow, did that device ever perk up my neurons!

Then it hit me: This was the first afternoon in months that I’d given myself a break from my desk, and it was my first time exploring a part of San Francisco on my own. It wasn’t the brain stimulation treatment that was blissing me out; it was the adventure and freedom of new sights that had been the trademark of my single years. As a health journalist, I spend a lot of time reading about, and experimenting with, the latest in what’s good for the brain: sleep, diet, exercise and, yes, new technology. But it was a good old dose of Me Time in a city that’s still fresh to me that was sparking this amazing state of well-being.

“Travel introduces novelty, which is one of the strongest drivers of brain health,” says neurologist Majid Fotuhi, MD, author of The Invincible Brain. “Solo travel amplifies these benefits because your brain is fully engaged.”

I spoke with Dr. Fotuhi, along with psychotherapist Francesca Maxime, a somatic experiencing practitioner, to find out how a little alone time away can unlock a new level of your mental potential. And yes, there’s some real science behind all this. Read on to learn all the details—and get the mental boost you’ve been craving.

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How does traveling by yourself rewire your brain?

By the second half of our 20s, our experiences have shaped our worldview. Our brain has established its habitual responses to our environment—“Like, ‘OK, this is how it’s going to be,’” Maxime says. “‘This is what life is like.'” A trip by yourself, however, helps you expand beyond that by literally changing your brain. “Solo travel is one of the most powerful forms of real-world brain training,” Dr. Fotuhi says. Here’s what’s going on.

It creates new neural pathways

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections. It’s the mechanism behind learning, memory and recovery—and solo travel helps develop it. “Planning a trip, navigating new places and adapting to unfamiliar cultures stimulate your brain in ways that create new neural pathways,” Dr. Fotuhi says. “These experiences strengthen memory, improve problem-solving and keep the brain active and resilient.”

Maxime says that around our mid-20s, our synapses tend to become locked in, and our neural networks can go unchallenged. Solo travel shakes things up. When people dress differently than you’re used to, when their art and food and music are new to you, “it challenges the way that you are,” she explains. Travel “interrupts that—and you will then witness that people can do something differently and still be OK on the other side.”

It activates your frontal lobe and hippocampus

Both Maxime and Dr. Fotuhi say these two brain regions get a particular workout when you’re navigating the world solo.

The frontal lobe is your center for planning, decision making and executive functioning. It kicks into high gear when something doesn’t go according to plan and you have to figure out your next move without anyone to consult. “The frontal lobe is heavily engaged as you organize every step of your journey and respond to unexpected situations,” Dr. Fotuhi explains.

Meanwhile, the hippocampus, which governs memory and spatial navigation, is busy encoding new routes, faces and experiences. The parietal lobe also gets activated as you orient yourself spatially in an unfamiliar environment. And when you use these skills regularly, they may help preserve cognitive function over time.

It may lower your long-term risk of cognitive decline

In a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Public Health, researchers found that older adults who engaged in tourism had a significantly lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia than those who didn’t travel. The benefit appeared to come not from relaxation alone, but from travel’s unique combination of mental stimulation, physical activity and social engagement.

Dr. Fotuhi describes travel as a “multimodal intervention” for the brain. As it simultaneously activates memory systems, executive function, spatial navigation networks and emotional circuits, it may build what researchers call cognitive reserve, the brain’s ability to withstand aging and pathology over time.

And solo travel can heighten this impact. When you travel with others, the cognitive load gets distributed, but when you’re alone, the burden lands entirely on you. “It is a full ‘cross-training’ experience for the brain,” Dr. Fotuhi says.

Are there psychological benefits as well?

There are, even beyond the pride you feel when you do something brave, or the relief when you navigate a tricky situation. Solo travel appears to create conditions in which the brain changes how it relates to itself.

It builds a corrective emotional experience

Maxime uses the phrase “corrective healing” to describe an experience that happens when people travel alone, particularly those who may have grown up feeling helpless or without agency. The solo traveler faces a challenge, figures it out and then knows—not as an idea, but as lived data—that they are capable. And then, when they’re feeling doubt, say, in the boardroom the following week, Maxime explains, they can say to themselves: “I know that I can do this.”

This reflects how the brain encodes self-belief: not through affirmation, but through experience.

It interrupts unhelpful patterns and expands what you believe is possible

Our brains are prediction machines. They constantly and unconsciously forecast what’s coming based on what’s happened before. Solo travel, Maxime explains, throws a productive wrench into that system.

When you encounter a community that eats every meal as a shared, multi-hour gathering—and discover that it’s warm and nourishing and nothing like the rushed meals you’ve come to know—your brain gets new information. It has to update its model of what “normal” looks like. “A new path,” Maxime says. “A new template for what’s possible.”

Over time, this chips away at limiting core beliefs about people, safety and your own ability in a way that just talking about those beliefs often cannot.

It sharpens curiosity, creativity and emotional flexibility

There’s a reason solo travelers often come home feeling creatively recharged: Unfamiliar environments light up the brain’s novelty-detection systems. This can involve dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with motivation and reward. New sights, smells, sounds, languages and social cues all demand attention in a way that familiar surroundings don’t.

“You can’t be curious and playful and imagining new things while you’re simultaneously scared, fearful and shut down,” Maxime notes. Solo travel invites curiosity, which is itself neurologically incompatible with the contracted, defensive mental state that anxiety or rumination produces.

Dr. Fotuhi adds that the stress-regulating effects of positive travel also support healthier nervous system balance, “potentially lowering long-term risk of cognitive decline.”

How can you maximize these benefits?

Here’s what the research and our experts suggest gets the most out of your solo trip.

• Keep your phone on you, but use it as little as possible. “Try walking in a new area without relying on your phone, and challenge your sense of direction,” Dr. Fotuhi suggests. Spatial disorientation is good exercise for the hippocampus. Navigating your way, even just around a museum, requires active memory-making, not passive GPS-following.
• Talk with locals and go deeper than the surface. Language immersion, a bike tour, a cooking class or even just eating where the locals eat exposes your brain to the kind of meaningful novelty that builds the richest new neural pathways. A “skillcation“—a trip built around learning something new (surfing, glass blowing, a new language)—is particularly effective because it combines novelty, challenge and maybe even mastery.
• Don’t beat yourself up when it doesn’t go right. This is where much of the real neurological and psychological opportunity happens. The missed train, the wrong neighborhood, the cafe server you just cannot understand—these are the moments where your frontal lobe earns its growth and your sense of self-efficacy gets its most durable upgrade.
• Stay present enough to soak in your brain’s experience. Constant social media posting, Netflix in the room or consuming content while you travel can dilute the neurological benefits. The brain encodes what it actually attends to.

Can you incorporate this into your life, even if you can’t take a big trip?

Definitely—and both experts are emphatic that you should. The brain responds to novelty, not necessarily to distance. “You do not need to travel far to challenge your brain,” Dr. Fotuhi says. Head out for a hike, go bird-watching in your area. “Exploring a new neighborhood, visiting a nearby city or learning about a different culture locally can create the same type of mental stimulation.”

He suggests visiting museums and cultural events, exploring communities with different traditions and cuisines, cooking meals from countries you’ve never been to or taking a class that puts you in a beginner’s mindset. Even small doses of the unfamiliar, encountered alone and with genuine presence, can yield real benefits.

Maxime adds that what really matters is the quality of the aloneness. It’s about being with yourself deliberately, without distraction, in a context that asks something of you. A morning in a neighborhood you’ve never visited, an afternoon potting plants, a dinner date with yourself—any of these activities can begin to do the work if you bring the right intention to them.

The key, both experts suggest, is genuine disconnection from the familiar. Tuck away your phone, post to the Gram tomorrow. This kind of growth depends on how fully you show up for yourself where you are.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Majid Fotuhi, MD, PhD, neurologist, author of The Invincible Brain: The Clinically Proven Plan to Age-Proof Your Brain and Stay Sharp for Life and creator of The Invincible Brain app; interviewed, March 19, 2026
• Francesca Marguerite Maximé, LCSW, somatic experiencing practitioner, founder of Maximé Clarity and host of the ReRooted Podcast; interviewed, March 18, 2026
• Frontiers in Public Health: “Tourism engagement and cognitive health in older adults”

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The post Your Brain Literally Works Differently When You’re Alone—Here’s Why Solo Travel May Be the Best Thing for You appeared first on Reader's Digest.

If you’ve ever struggled with shortness of breath after a virus or suddenly found yourself panting hard every time you set out for a run, you know the feeling (and probably wish you didn’t). Officially known as dysfunctional breathing, this maddening issue is actually much more common than you might think: Nearly one in ten adults have it, according to a 2019 study of adults in the U.K.

To find out more about dysfunctional breathing, I consulted Michael Marsh, MD, an interventional pulmonologist at Jupiter Medical Center, and Zachary Rubin, MD, a pediatric allergist and immunologist and the author of the new book All About Allergies. Read on to find out how this respiratory glitch happens, whether stress plays a role and how to reset your breathing to get back to a healthy rhythm.

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What is dysfunctional breathing, exactly?

In simple terms, dysfunctional breathing is an irregular pattern of breathing. It can include hyperventilating—when you’re rapidly breathing and exhaling too much carbon dioxide—shortness of breath and a feeling of “air hunger.”

When your breathing is out of whack, it can feel super uncomfortable—and even scary. “A lot of people describe it as feeling like they can’t get a full breath, even though their oxygen levels are normal,” says Dr. Rubin. “You might notice frequent sighing or yawning, tightness in the chest or throat, fast or shallow breathing, or feeling lightheaded.”

What causes this breathing problem?

It’s sometimes tricky to figure out what’s going on because “it’s not just one condition,” Dr. Rubin explains. “Dysfunctional breathing is more of a pattern that can come from different issues, like stress, asthma, reflux or even lingering effects after an illness.” The symptoms overlap with other health problems, and tests can look normal, he says, which makes it harder to pin down. That can be super frustrating.

Dysfunctional breathing is sometimes just a temporary, minor glitch—sort of a normal abnormality. “It’s not always related to a health problem,” Dr. Marsh says. It can even be a learned breathing habit (in other words, you get into a routine with it and can’t stop).

But in other cases, something medical is going on. These are the most common culprits:

Allergies and/or asthma

If you have allergies or asthma, you may be more likely to hyperventilate or notice air hunger. In fact, 25% of people with asthma—inflammation and narrowing in the airways—report dysfunctional breathing, according to a 2025 study. “Asthma can create a feeling of not fully exhaling, which adds to that ‘air hunger’ sensation,” Dr. Rubin explains.

But sometimes even regular old seasonal or year-round allergies can skew your inhales and exhales. “Allergies can block the nose and push people toward mouth breathing, which isn’t as efficient,” Dr. Rubin says. Keeping your allergies and asthma well controlled can make a big difference.

Post-COVID-19 infection or other virus

Catching a cold, the flu or COVID-19 can also lead to this pattern of abnormal breathing. “We are recognizing it more frequently, especially post-COVID,” Dr. Marsh notes.

In these cases, it may be a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which controls processes in our body that happen automatically, like your heart beating. And, you know, breathing.

Stress and anxiety

Then there’s stress (is there an end to all the ways stress is harmful?). “Stress can shift breathing patterns subconsciously, leading to chronic overbreathing or shallow chest breathing,” Dr. Marsh explains.

Vocal cord dysfunction

Does your throat get tight when you work out? Do you sometimes feel like you’re gasping in and making a weird noise? Is it like you have asthma—only your asthma meds don’t help? You may have vocal cord dysfunction, which is sometimes called exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO).

In this form of dysfunctional breathing, the vocal cords close when they should open, leading to scary symptoms like throat tightness, hyperventilation and a whistling sound when breathing in. The condition is relatively common in athletes and is also seen in post-viral syndromes, chronic illnesses that sometimes appear after—you guessed it—a viral infection. An ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT), a pulmonologist or an allergist can help diagnose and treat it.

What can happen if you have dysfunctional breathing patterns?

Improper breathing is not good because it throws off the exchange of gases that regulates many things in your body. Every time you breathe in, the air goes through your trachea to your lungs. Oxygen passes into your bloodstream, and you breathe out carbon dioxide.

At least that’s how it works when you’re breathing the right way. “If you’re breathing too fast or shallow, you can throw off carbon dioxide levels, which can lead to dizziness, tingling, chest discomfort and even more shortness of breath,” Dr. Rubin says. “Not fully exhaling can leave you feeling tight or like you can’t take the next breath comfortably.”

How can you tell if you’re doing this?

Often, you’ll know that your breathing is off. Dr. Marsh says things to watch for include frequent sighing, chest-dominant breathing (instead of breathing through the diaphragm), the inability to take a satisfying breath or disproportionate shortness of breath with normal lung function testing.

How do you know if you’re using your diaphragm to belly breathe, as you should, or doing chest breathing instead? Here’s a little test:

1. Get into a relaxing position.
2. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
3. Feel yourself breathe.

If you are breathing properly, you will feel your belly rise while your chest doesn’t move. If you notice that your chest moves, you are shallow breathing, which can become a (bad) habit.

So how do you breathe the “right” way?

To build a healthy breathing habit, follow these pointers from Dr. Rubin:

• Breathe through your nose when you can, because it naturally slows things down.
• Focus on belly breathing (letting your abdomen rise, not your chest).
• Slow your breathing down. Take a gentle inhale and a longer, relaxed exhale.
• If you still notice irregular breathing, work with a specialist (like a respiratory or speech therapist trained in breathing techniques). Getting pro help can be a game-changer.

How long does it take to reset your breathing pattern?

There’s no instant fix to correct a disordered breathing pattern. The good news? “If nothing major is driving it, many people can start to feel better within a few weeks of consistent breathing retraining,” Dr. Rubin says. Still, it might take four to eight weeks to truly rewire the pattern, he says. And if you’ve had your symptoms for a while or if they’re tied to stress or post-viral changes, it can take a few months, he adds.

Getting underlying issues like asthma under control can help speed the process. Beyond that, consistency is key: Keep working on your belly breathing every day. Remember, Dr. Rubin says, “your body learned this breathing pattern, so it can also unlearn it, but like any habit, it takes repetition.”

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Sources:

• Zachary Rubin, MD, pediatric allergist and immunologist and author of All About Allergies; email interview, April 29, 2026
• Michael Marsh, MD, interventional pulmonologist at Jupiter Medical Center in Jupiter, Florida; email interview, April 29, 2026
• PubMed: “Dysfunctional breathing: what do we know?”
• BMJ Open Respiratory Research: “Dysfunctional breathing symptoms, functional impact and quality of life in patients with long COVID-19: a prospective case series”
• Respiratory Medicine: “Analysis of the breathing pattern in patients with asthma during physical exercise: A cross-sectional study”
• American College of Cardiology: “Dysfunctional Breathing in Athletes”
• National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute: “What Breathing Does for the Body”

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