10 Mountaintop Proposals That Will Take Your Breath Away

Every proposal is memorable, but there’s something about one that happens on a mountain that takes romance to new heights. Picturesque peaks are the perfect place for adventurous couples to feel on top of the world (literally) as they declare their love for each other. The following epic engagements will make you want to grab your S.O., dig out those hiking boots, and head for the great outdoors.

1. Rocky Mountain Love: Nothing compares to getting swept off your feet in the snow. (via Alchemy Creative / Inspired by This)

2. Scandinavian Paradise: Okay, this proposal, which took place in Norway, was destined for the books. Just look at that awe-inspiring setting! (via How He Asked)

3. Surprise Engagement: That moment when mushroom hunting turns into popping the question. Bet she did *not* see it coming! (via Joe and Robin)

4. Living on the Edge: Hiking to a gorgeous lookout point is always worth it. But getting a diamond ring at the final destination? Now that’s priceless. (via Liesl Claire Photography)

5. Cloud Nine: Snow: check. Hanging out in the clouds: check. Romantic kiss and unforgettable engagement: check and check! (via Dylan M Howell Photography / Junebug Weddings)

6. All Dressed Up: A dress this stunning deserves a photo op… or 10. Oh, and that backdrop is pretty nice too. (via How He Asked)

7. Soaring Heights: Here’s proof that that magic moment is only the beginning of a lifelong adventure. (via Fox House Studio)

8. Privacy Please: This secluded peak is about as private (and romantic) as it gets. (via Jon Taylor Sweet)

9. Ladies’ Choice: We can’t decide which we love more — the breathtaking scenery or the blushing groom! (via Cinematic Tide)

10. Gorgeous Beginnings: Ain’t love grand? A panoramic view of one of the Wonders of the World really takes a proposal to the next level. (via Mike Mezeul II Photography / How He Asked)

Check out Brit + Co Weddings for all things nuptials, and follow us on Pinterest for more beautiful and creative wedding inspo.

Stranger Things breakout star, Millie Bobby Brown announced her engagement to boyfriend Jake Bongiovi (and yes, he is the son of singer and musician Jon Bon Jovi) earlier today, and TBH she’s *glowing*.

The couple announced their exciting news on Instagram, each posting smiling photos with the stunning ring. Here's what we know!

How did Millie Bobby Brown get engaged?

Image via Todd Owyoung/NBC

During an appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, Millie Bobby Brown finally spilled the details on how Jake Bongiovi proposed to her, and TBH I totally did not see it coming. "Basically, Jake and I bonded over diving," she says. "He was like, 'Mill, you've got to be up at 8 AM, we're going on a dive'...So we go under and we're many meters down, and he gives me a shell and I turn it over and it's a ring."

"He puts the ring on my hand, and as I go to show him, the ring falls off my finger," she continues. "Jake threw himself into the [water] so deep...He does a cinematic grab, opens [his hand], and he saved the ring." Now that's a proposal story I could hear over and over again!

What did Millie Bobby Brown wear to her engagement party?

Image via Buster Knight/Instagram

Brown wore a Giambattista Valli lace set that we're absolutely obsessed with, and used her own florence by mills line for her makeup!

One user commented on Popsugar's announcement, "Anyone else think he looks like Flynn Rider from Tangled?" and now we're totally getting Flynn and Rapunzel vibes.

What have Millie's friends said about the engagement?

www.instagram.com

@jakebongiovi on Instagram: "Forever 🤍"

The actress’ friends were quick to congratulate the duo. TV personality Jess Wright wrote in the comments section, “Ommmmggggg congratulations!!!!!!!!! @milliebobbybrown this is amazing. So so happy for you darling 🎊✨🤍.” Holly Ramsay, daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, shared her well wishes and wrote, “!!!! Congratulations ❤️❤️❤️❤️.” Sister Tilly Ramsay also chimed in, adding “Congratulations ❤️!! Xx.”

When did Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi start dating?

Image via Millie Bobby Brown/Instagram

The pair have dated since late 2021, but romance rumors swirled as the couple started sharing pictures of each other on social media in June 2021. The engagement has sparked many reactions from fans, considering their shorter dating-to-engagement timeline and the couple’s ages at the time, Brown (19) and Bongiovi (20).

"Endlessly in love with the year I've had!" Millie says in a 2023 New Years Day Instagram post. "Grateful for my friends, family, donkey (bernard), my doggies, my puppies teeth, and my partner for life. here's to another year with you and the wonderful people and animals around us 🤍 let's do it again but better!"

What did Millie Bobby Brown do on her birthday?

Image via Millie Bobby Brown/Instagram

Millie Bobby Brown recently celebrated her 20th birthday at Cathédrale Restaurant in New York and was surrounded by her closest loved ones. She was seen smiling happily next to fiancé Jake Bongiovi and we pinched ourselves because they're so adorable together!

Aside from that, Millie Bobby Brown wore the cutest satin mini dress that looks fit for a bride. Could this be a nod to her wedding dress?

See Jake Bongiovi And Millie Bobby Brown's Engagement Photos

www.instagram.com

Millie Bobby Brown on Instagram: "I've loved you three summers now, honey, I want 'em all 🤍"

Jake Bongiovi and Millie Bobby Brown are all smiles in their engagement photos, and I am love seeing how happy they are! "I've loved you three summers now, honey, I want 'em all," Millie says in her Instagram post.

We can't wait to see how the happy couple steps out in style during their wedding. 💗

Stay updated on all things celebrity news with Brit + Co and subscribe to our newsletter.

Lead image via Florence by Mills

This post has been updated.

We can't take all of the sweet baby news we've been hearing about! From Hilary Duff to Vanessa Hudgens, our beloved Disney stars are glowing mamas-to-be! The latest to join the list of growing families is High School Musical Alum Ashley Tisdale and her husband Christopher French! They've been a happy family of three for a while, but they're expanding with the announcement of Ashley's second pregnancy!

When did Ashley Tisdale announce her pregnancy?

Image via Frenshe

Yesterday Ashley Tisdale shared a mini carousel post on Instagram where she announced her second pregnancy in the most touching way! Pictured in a classic white button-up and slightly unzipped jeans, her cute baby bump is on full display! Her husband Christopher French and their daughter Jupiter also make a loving appearance in the post.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared her due date?

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Anastasia Beverly Hills

Since she just shared she's expecting baby no. 2, Ashley Tisdale hasn't disclosed her due date just yet.

What have Ashley Tisdale's friends said about her second pregnancy?

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty Images For Chrysalis

Several celebrities left sweet messages on Ashley Tisdale's Instagram post. Glee star Lea Michele wrote, "So happy for your beautiful family!!! 💓💓💓" while fellow High School Musical alum Corbin Bleu wrote, "Congratulations! ❤❤."

How do fans feel about Ashley Tisdale's second pregnancy?

Image via Noam Galai/Getty Images for goodnest

Fans are also ecstatic about Ashley Tisdale's pregnancy announcement. Instagram user @jsantam_20h, "So you mean to tell me that Sharpay and Gabriella are both preggars?? 😲🙌❤" in reference to Vanessa Hudgens also being pregnant right now. We highly doubt it was planned, but the timing couldn't be more perfect!

What has Ashley Tisdale's husband Christopher French said about their expanding family?

Image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Christoper French shared a heartwarming image of himself, Ashley Tisdale, and their daughter on Instagramto share his excitement about their growing family. His caption says, "Beyond grateful. Thank you my beautiful love @ashleytisdale for another baby French 💘."

Ashley wrote, "I love you!!! Juju is just too cute we had to have another!!" in the comments and we couldn't agree more! The sweetness of it all is making us have baby fever.

How old is Ashley Tisdale's first child?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Feeding America and North Valley Caring Services

Speaking of Ashley Tisdale and Christopher French's daughter Jupiter, she recently turned 3 on March 23! People announced her birth in 2021 and shared that the happy couple were doing well. We can only imagine how excited she is to be a big sister.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared baby bump updates since announcing her pregnancy?

Image via Ashley Tisdale/Instagram

Ashley Tisdale posted this cute pregnancy update on Instagram yesterday and she she wore a casual outfit that we want to replicate. Although she appears to be wearing straight leg jeans, she wrote a relatable caption about them. "the only jeans that will fit me right now," it reads.

Maternity jeans do exist, but it's possible she's not interested in wearing them right now and we don't blame her!

How do you feel about Ashley Tisdale expecting baby no. 2?

Keep up with us on Facebook for more celeb news and pregnancy updates!

This post has been updated.

Header image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

"I love your aura." You may wonder what this means. We are now living in a time when we are beginning to wonder beyond the linear and physical reality of existence. The Age of Aquarius has been approaching these past years, encouraging us to look into spirituality and the collective consciousness. Our energy is precious – and learning about your aura can be the first stepping stone to level up your spirituality. Celebrities such as Emma Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Zosia Mamet have revealed their spiritual selves by promoting aura photography.

What are auras?

Getty/Aleksandra Konoplia

Auras are the unseen spiritual energy field surrounding all living things' bodies. They manifest as vibrations and colors throughout the body. Depending on what you are experiencing, it will manifest into the type of color filter around the body, revealing your spiritual and emotional self and state of wellness.

It is not always easily accessible to see auras, but it can be felt. Observe celebrities such as Taylor Swift or Beyonce. They have a magnetic yet powerful aura that swirls with creativity and prestige. Or suppose you are crossing paths with someone who gives off a warm and sunny persona. You can't help but smile. This indicates you are feeling or sensing their auric energy. The same also applies to those who store a negative vibe – only in this case, you decide (hopefully) not to engage due to the clashing of energies.

If you are an astrology lover like me, then there is a chance that you have invested time in learning about yourself, leading to non-stop Google searches. Learning about astrology can help you see things from an entirely new view because each zodiac sign holds strength and characteristics revealed in different aspects of energy and, best yet – self-acceptance.

How do I find my aura colors?

Lumi Pelinku

If you want to uncover your aura colors, one way is to get your aura photographed. A special camera, known as the Kirlian camera, captures your halo or colorful, energetic field using an electrified photographic plate. Or you can have a clairvoyant read your aura, and you will have a better idea about which parts of your birth chart you are in tune with your life story or address what needs work.

For example, five years ago, when I had my aura photographed, the most prominent colors in my energy field were bright red, green, and indigo. I was most in tune with my Mars, Venus, and rising sign. This was the time in my journey when I was unknowingly invested in my toxic relationship while over-compromising my individuality, which resulted in my Mars and Venus covering my indigo color. Last year, I took another photo of my aura that turned out burnt orange and murky while I still held on in the relationship. My indigo color was nowhere to be seen in my aura photo. This was a wake-up call and a red flag for me to realize what was in store for my well-being if I ignored my feelings about my relationship. Months later, and energetically depleted, I decided to part ways. Enlightening, isn't it?

Connecting with your aura will illuminate what part of your life needs attention. The colors of your aura correspond to one of the seven rays of the rainbow spectrum—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. With each life experience, traumatic or blissful, your colors are bound to change. It can appear clear and vibrant if you are on cloud nine or murky and dark if you are going through a tough time. The best part is that if you know this information, you can navigate past your life issues and figure out the core of your happiness, as each color has a theme.

However, everyone has a base color connected with their zodiac sign. Learning about your aura and what imbalances you will help you live a more authentic path in alignment with your sign.

Understanding your aura colors based on your zodiac sign

Getty/We Are

Aries

As the first sign of the zodiac, you are meant to step into the path of realizing the ability to initiate and set the tone of your success by being bold. The ram is notable for its ability to aim with its horns during conflict. Taking ownership of what you set your sights on will ignite willpower. You lead with great stride and confidence by emanating truth and authenticity behind your purpose. Hope and seeing life as a new conquest will help you see yourself through success.

Aura Color: Bright Red

You are the zodiac's spark of light radiating bright red in your aura. Red is the most primal and attention-grabbing of the colors. It connects with the Root Energy Center of the body, which stores your stability and security. This color embodies passion, sexuality, competitiveness, and persevering will – which are your major life themes. The ruling planet that is your support in this life is Mars, which adds fuel to your fiery spirit. This color adds momentum and confidence in pursuing your goals.

Imbalanced Aura

When imbalanced, Aries can hold an air of becoming overly authoritative, domineering, and untactful. To diffuse this tendency, this sign will have to shift the focus to the benefit of others instead of designating themselves as a priority.

Taurus

As an earthy and patient being, you are a stabilizing energy force. You are legendary for persistence and known to take your time in moving. As the bull sign, you are granular in your energetic makeup and persevering. Your will is so strong that you do not lose yourself due to mental conflict, resulting in you connecting with the sensuality of life by living in the moment, which so many aspire to master.

Aura Color: Jewel Green

Green is the color of relaxation, abundance, and love. With your Venus-ruled energy, this color is linked to the Heart Energy Center, and it can help support you by living more consciously with your decisions involving love – or, on the flip side of that, transmuting jealousy. Green is often used as a supportive color in healing by enhancing feelings of balance and renewal. As the earthy sign, this color is associated with nature and growth.

Imbalanced Aura

If your aura is imbalanced, you may be prone to indulging in the extreme of earthly pleasures such as food, materialism, inflexibility, and sex. Observe your life logically and change your patterns to balance out these extremes.

Gemini

Like the wind, you spiral out in different directions with your communication and ideas. As the messenger of the zodiac, you enable the conversations to flow in others. As seen in the Twins, this air sign reveals the polarity in situations and bridges the gaps of missed information. You are here to share the truth, strengthen yourself by confidently speaking openly, relate to all walks of life by embracing diversity, and engage the mind and instill this in others.

Aura Color: Yellow

Yellow is the most polarizing of all colors. This color transmutes your moods and emotional needs and invokes productivity and movement. With Mercury as your ruling planet, your thoughts formulate your reality. Solar Plexus energy center becomes the driving force behind you finding empowerment in alignment with your ideas.

Imbalanced Aura

If experiencing imbalance, it can manifest in scattered ideas and fall prey to playing out the messages in their head, and have a hard time developing the context of their findings. Grounding is essential to help you balance this tendency and ensure the practicality and meaning behind your motivations.

More aura colors and their meanings

Getty/Justin Lambert

Cancer

Naturally sensitive, you are here to establish your roots and build security in your relationships. Intuitive in nature, you are absorbent to the feelings of others and aim to extend empathy. Cancers are here to learn how to invoke self-care and safety to withstand the ebbs and flows of life while accepting help from others. Known to be compassionate and nurturing and possesses such camaraderie with humanity. You value tradition and have the talent for spreading wisdom to others.

Aura Color: Silvery White

White is the color in association with tranquility and surrender. However, it may be noted as an absence of color – quite the opposite. It stores all colors, like a spectrum. The Moon phases reflect your understanding of nature and experiences, and working with white helps you see and understand self-acceptance in alignment with your soul self.

Imbalanced Aura

With an imbalanced aura, you are prone to be excessively worried and become overly involved in others life problems, this leads to codependent routes in relationships. This stifling tendency can deplete your energetic capacity to build life as you see fit.

Leo

As the showstopper of the zodiac, you are the life of the party and child-like at heart. Even for Leos, who feel they are not outgoing, that spark hides somewhere. They lead by the heart and aim to immerse in their creativity. Leos are meant to stand on their pedestal, firmly holding their individuality. You generate your power by igniting and following through with your goals. As Leo instills hope, their inner radiance glows and inspires others to follow their dreams.

Aura Color: Orange

Orange combines the fiery energy of red with the optimism of yellow. With the Sun as your planetary guide, this color, too, emits the same effect of warmth, happiness, and high energy. Working with the color orange can curb procrastination and boost confidence to pursue your goals.

Imbalanced Aura

An unhappy Leo rarely goes unnoticed, and this is reflected in the aura. Imbalance manifests when you are not entirely accepted or feeling secure. To balance this out, look for the essential benefit of your life's work instead of surface-layered validation. This opens pathways for you to shine.

Virgo

As the service-oriented sign, you are here to extend the purity of purpose while assisting others. They have a strong work ethic, and measuring up to their promise of crystal-clear delivery is guaranteed. Virgos are to live out a path of finding order in their lives and becoming comfortable with inevitable chaos. With a sensitivity to environmental imbalances and external influences, it is crucial for you to honor your body with wholesome foods, clear away self-deprecating thoughts, and be flexible to life's rhythms.

Aura Color: Blue-Green

Blue is a primary color associated with logic, honesty, trust, and communication, while green is associated with the grounding element of the earth. These two colors fused align with Mercury as your ruler planet. Working with these colors instills a laser focus to look at the minor details and modify anything to perfection.

Imbalanced Aura

Experiencing the darker shade of your aura can manifest in excessive perfectionism, self-doubt, and criticism. Once you learn the art of self-acceptance and humility while making mistakes, you will feel stronger and at peace when things go haywire.

What is your aura color?

Getty/We Are

Libra

Instilling balance within oneself while shifting the lens of the opposing forces of others is a part of your life purpose. You have a knack for challenging the status quo and aim to find justice and fairness in all aspects of life. Libra is also notable for their quest to find love. Attracting friendships or partnerships that challenge you will keep the spark alive. By having a natural gift of mediating amid conflict, you also desire to spread grace and beauty in the world.

Aura Color: Pink

Pink is associated with love, kindness, and compassion. Venus, your guiding planet, powers up your pink aura by supporting your mission to find beauty and love. Pink helps you connect with your heart center while boosting feelings of self-love.

Imbalanced Aura

An imbalanced aura manifests when you fall prey to codependent relationships or people-pleasing tendencies. Remaining in these scenarios to avoid confrontations dims your inner light and leads to delayed results in line with your goals. Mastering boundaries and sticking with assertion is vital for you to find balance.

Scorpio

Life is a rite of passage for you. Understanding the shadow and the light is not for the faint of heart, but as a Scorpio, you evolve and rise above life's trials. This stems from your psychic ability to see the darker depths of life and the shadows of others. The constant regenerating expression triggers inner conflict, but you emerge stronger as you learn to surrender to the process.

Aura Color: Indigo

Associated as the color of wealth, mystery, and spiritual awareness, you, too, hold these treasures within your auric field. With the shortest wavelength of light, this acts as a shield to your energy, protecting you from unwanted circumstances. Guided by the planet Pluto, this color extends support and boosts your connection to a higher level of awareness for creative flow and intuition work.

Imbalanced Aura

As the sign with its fair share of intensities in life, you have a gift of persevering. However, your inability to change your ways or views can result in a murky aura and, therefore, block opportunities to invite joy into your life. Embracing change and new opportunities leads to empowerment and soul fulfillment.

Sagittarius

As the archer sign, they are on the path to spreading their joyful experiences and helping others see the silver lining even when things appear bleak. Their expansive and bright auras can stretch out to the heavens, and when they learn to bridge this connection down to earth, they can find their stroke of luck. They are here to bridge the philosophical connection from their past experiences by breaking free from the primal nature of ego expression. Teaching and empowering others is a part of their soul's fulfillment.

Aura Color: Gold

Governed by the sign Jupiter, its expansive energy extends a stroke of luck in whatever you set your heart on. In connection with your gold aura, this planet infuses you with the ability to absorb information. It is also the color of independence, confidence, and motivation. Working with gold will allow you to go after your dreams while remaining levelheaded.

Imbalanced Aura

When you experience disappointment with your goals not being met, you lose faith, leading to an imbalanced auric field. This in itself can close you off from life and its opportunity. Aiming to see the big picture and becoming receptive to other ideas can lead to fulfillment and a rebalanced aura.

Zodiac aura colors continued

Getty/Glen Pearson

Capricorn

As a Capricorn, you are the zodiac's powerhouse and capable of achieving your goals. Honing in on instilling structure while embracing discipline will ensure success in life. You are here to mark upon the world by reaching heights of success that align with your passion honorably. As you tap into your ability to rise above the physical pull of greed and live by authenticity, it will inspire many to step into their light.

Aura Color: Violet

Your auric field extends a pull of prestige, honor, and respect. Guided by the planet Saturn, it instills the need to preserve humility while igniting strength to power through obstacles. Violet helps you find your purpose while finding solutions to unresolved issues.

Imbalanced Aura

Capricorns within the materially driven path lead them to isolation and constant suspicion of others' motives. If you are disconnected from your energy, your emotive ability will be nonexistent, resulting in living on autopilot. Honoring everyone as your equal will instill trust in life and lead to a clean auric field.

Aquarius

Your purpose is to live an exciting life filled with innovation and to be a service to humanity. Their brilliance and intellectual capability come at lightning speed due to being one of the most innovative signs of the zodiac. Becoming involved in a cause greater than yourself drives you towards your soul's fulfillment. The ability to reinvent oneself is not easy, but as the water bearer sign, you can ease into changes better than any other sun sign.

Aura Color: Electric Blue

With an electric blue aura, you are infused with wisdom and innovation that inspires people in your life. This color invokes energy, action, and excitement for your future vision while extending support to see through your vision. With Uranus, the future-oriented planet, as your guide, you are given access to information that helps humanity evolve to a better place.

Imbalanced Aura

Your pure and absorbent aura can absorb an overflow of information from people you connect with. The nature of the groups, negative or positive, can result in a murky aura. Remembering to honor your individuality and holding ground with your sense of self will enable you to discern your connections while keeping your aura pristine.

Pisces

As a Pisces Sun, you are here to find groundedness while extending wisdom. You hold an archive of information within your consciousness that is otherworldly and yet archaic. Your sign can read into the auras of those you connect with by just feeling or strictly intuition. You are on this path to freely share divine wisdom while extending the lessons for others to understand the importance of unconditional love and acceptance. Since you hold etheric baggage of past lifetimes, your role in this lifetime is to learn how to surrender karmic ties and to live more in the present.

Aura Color: Pastel Purple

This shade of purple is tethered to the higher realms of existence, helping you coordinate your understanding of how life works in the present moment. It is magical and infuses you with the ability to draw in information and creatively utilize it. With the mystical planet Neptune as your planet, it powers up your ability to extend wisdom and empathy to each person you meet.

Imbalanced Aura

With an imbalanced aura, you can fall victim to disconnecting from reality and lose yourself in the pain of others and your own. You may feel lost and unmotivated in life if you do not practice discernment and personal awareness. Human connection and letting others know about your fears and insecurities can help you feel more in control and grounded.

Imagine sipping Champagne above a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or indulging in a heavenly spa treatment with the Manhattan skyline in view. Even if your wallet can't quite stretch to a full-blown luxury getaway, sprinkling a touch of luxe into your travels can turn an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure. That idea sparked our new series, Flights of Fancy, where we take you along for a trip to the luxury experiences around the cities we adore.

It may be the greatest city in the world, but let’s be real: it can be extremely exhausting to live in — and visit — New York City. There are plenty of spas where you can snag a $300+ deep tissue massage, but that's not always practical. Instead of constantly carrying that tension for days (and weeks and months and years) to come, I finally took my self care needs over to Bathhouse Williamsburg for a spa day.

Bathhouse Williamsburg isn't exactly a spa. You won't get a facial — or even cucumbers on your eyes — there, but you'll find relaxation in so many other tangible ways. From their available array of amenities included in the day pass to the specific treatments like scrubs and massages, Bathhouse is perfect for taking a step back from a city that requires oh-so-many steps.

When did bathhouses start?

Image via Bathhouse

The earliest bathhouses originated around 10,000 B.C. — AKA the Neolithic Age — according to the BBC. While some bathhouses in earlier years were used for religious purposes, many were social hubs that superseded socioeconomics. Essentially, bathhouses were for everyone to come, cleanse, and calm down.

The bathhouses we know today are more about getting R&R, but their ancient predecessors were meant to literally bathe people. If you think about it, people didn’t have showers and bathtubs in their homes back in the B.C. times. Irrigation for farming didn’t even exist until 6,000 B.C., let alone plumbing that went to and from individual houses.

At these public bathhouses, people could wash the week off with the rest of their community. And while health and hygiene was key during baths, this was also a time that people could come together and socialize with each other — extremely similar to what I saw during my own bathhouse experience.

Are bathhouses still a thing?

Image via Bathhouse

Yes! There are multiple bathhouses in New York City to chooses from, let alone across the world.

What are the benefits of a bathhouse?

Image via Bathhouse

A bathhouse experience isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are many elements to a bathhouse — saunas, hot tubs, cold tubs, etc. — so each time you go could help with something else. Here’s a rundown of what goodness you may get at your own bathhouse visit.

Saunas

It’s no secret that saunas are highly sought after self care luxuries. Forbes reported that of course there are more typical benefits of saunas like relaxation and pain relief, you could also improve your hearth health, immune system, and respiratory system.

Hot Tubs

Like saunas, hot tubs are really peaceful environments that can put you at ease, the Cleveland Clinic noted that there are a lot of other wins to dipping your toes in this water. With regular visits to the hot tub, you could lower your blood pressure, improve the quality of your sleep, and ultimately improve your heart health (alongside other factors like exercise and diet).

Cold Plunges

Cold plunges and ice baths aren't anything new — you've probably seen Tiktokers and athletes alike sinking into an icy tub — but why? According to TODAY, cold plunges decrease inflammation, increase dopamine and endorphins, and speed up physical recovery after a workout or training.

Massages

Massages are more than a part your honeymoon package at the hotel spa — they have very real physical benefits. Alongside reducing overall stress and muscle tension, the Mayo Clinic states that massages can actually help improve your immune system as well!

Body Scrubs

Although your skin sheds dead cells naturally, sometimes the process could use a little speeding up — especially after cold, winter months. Healthline said that body scrubs can aid in moisturizer absorption, clogged pores, and uneven complexion. Specific benefits can vary depending on the ingredients of your scrub, so be sure to understand what you want to work on while you pick out your own at-home or at-spa scrubs.

Do you wear clothes in a bathhouse?

Image via Bathhouse

While the early bathhouses of yore were likely fully nude, people typically wear swimsuits in modern bathhouses. Depending on what you’re signed up for, you may want to consider wearing a two-piece swimsuit — this makes treatments like scrubs and such much easier and more accessible.

Enter: Bathhouse Williamsburg

Image via Bathhouse

In typical Haley fashion, I was rushing to make my appointment. I huffed my way through the front door, and everything instantly slowed down. The bright, earthy reception area was exactly what I needed — real, down to earth, and above all...quiet. The hosts at the front desk checked me in, made sure I had my swimsuit, and made sure I understood the run down:

  1. Here are your towels.
  2. The locker room is around the corner and through those doors.
  3. No cell phones outside of the locker room and restaurant.

Image via Bathhouse

I headed off to the locker room, changed into my suit, and made my way to the pools. I'd never been to a bathhouse before, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Praying I wouldn't meet the eerie silence of a university library, I walked downstairs to the pools. It was definitely a soothing environment, but thankfully it wasn't sterile — people talked, people read, soaked, people lounged. A soothing music subtly played over the speakers, but nothing intrusive. It was exactly what I needed.

Image via Bathhouse

First thing's first, I needed to soak. Out of the three available pools, I picked the hot tub because I knew what I needed: to melt away my worries. Deadlines? Moving? Family? Didn't matter — I had a jet on my back and my head leaned back. My company rotated here and there, from friends chatting about a recent scandal to a family testing the literal waters to see how hot it was. All the while, I found myself finally and truly relaxing.

Image via Bathhouse

Next, I sauntered over to the tropical sauna, and it was toasty to say the least. The music from before is amplified here, with little-to-no conversation. The air smelled fresh as I focused on my breathing and tried to meditate. My muscles continued to relax, as the heat worked its way through my body. A little over five minutes later, and it was time to go get ready for my scrub.

Image via Bathhouse

After cooling down on the bench for a few minutes (and trust me, I could use the cool down), my esthetician took me back to my treatment room. She was super kind, willing to talk as much as my Chatty Cathy self wanted to, answering my every question. While I love the quiet at times, I feel the most comfortable when I can carry a conversation with someone. Maybe it's the journalist in me, maybe it's the ADHD, but talking takes the pressure off in a way.

Well, talking and peacefully poured warm water paired with a gentle body scrub. I was in for a Hammam scrub, described as their "take" on a more traditional Moroccan scrub. As I laid on the table, rotating from one side to another, she "buffed away dullness" from my body, washing the mixture away with buckets of water as she worked.

Post-scrub, my esthetician applied CBD oil on my skin and advised me to let it soak in the steam room. I'm not particularly a rule follower, but I figured my new friend wouldn't steer me wrong.

Image via Bathhouse

The steam room was a purple-blue filled with starry lights...and lots and LOTS of steam. I could hardly see in front of me enough to find a seat, but I eventually found my way as my eyes adjusted. I was completely engulfed in steam, feeling like I was on another planet — one where my muscles didn't know tension, but were very, very familiar with CBD oil's relaxing charms. After about five to ten minutes, I knew it was time to head out and rinse off in the rain shower.

Image via Bathhouse

A quick rinse later, and it was the perfect time to take my last moments in the neutral pool. The water temperature was wonderful, and there was plenty of space for the ever-circulating guests. I felt refreshed and ready to take on the rest of my day, so I snuck back into the locker room, washed off, and head to the restaurant for a little snack to send me off.

Image via Haley Sprankle

How often are your feeling mindful and relaxed by mid-afternoon on a Friday after a long week? Well, that was me for the first time in a really, really long time. With a crisp salad and glass of bubbly, I knew this wouldn't be my last visit to Bathhouse. For the rest of the weekend — and honestly well into Monday afternoon — I wasn't cracking my neck as much, my skin was incredibly soft, and I felt good.

Header image via Bathhouse

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I can't be the only one who dreads deal with TSA during security checkpoints, so it's important for me to find small rolling suitcases that make traveling 10x easier. I can't tell you how many times my items have been haphazardly ransacked during 'random' security checks only for me to curse my packing skills — ugh!

There's one bright side to my dilemma though: small rolling suitcases that have study exteriors and well-proportioned interiors. This is the key to making sure my travel essentials stay in one place. Tired of tripping over your suitcase because of its unstable wheels or fearing that you still won't do everything TSA agents ask? I've got 8 chic small rolling suitcases that'll help you navigate the airport without breaking a sweat in no time!

Shop Small Rolling Suitcases Here!

Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carryon Luggage (Ivy Green Topography)

One of the most important features of small rolling suitcases is their exterior. Since you'll likely be sprinting through the airport or jogging down escalators if they're not busy, you need something that can withstand being dragged. Herschel is known for creating luggage that's travel-tested

This carryon luggage is made with 70% recycled polycarbonate and it has silent wheels. It's like your travel companion that truly understands you have places to be and doesn't complain as you're navigating your busy airport.

CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage (Rose Gold)

Here's your sign to get a rose gold rolling suitcase that can serve as your carryon item. It has 360-degree spinner wheels that'll work with you and not against you (IYKYK), plus the internal pockets make it easier for you to pack efficiently. You may want to check with the attendants on your flight, but this suitcase is designed to fit under your seat so you don't have to fight with an inconsiderate person for a space in the overhead storage bin.

Monos Terracotta Carryon

Sometimes you just want something cute and floral like this limited edition rolling suitcase. It's water-resistant and has an internal lining that's made from 100% recycled polyester! The internal features I like are the buckle straps that makes sure your clothes won't slide all over the place and the removable compression pad with zippered pockets to store flat items.

BÉIS The Carry On Roller (Atlas Pink)

We've all had experience with the dreaded TSA line that makes us question our sanity and age. But, BÉIS wants to eliminate your stress with their pink carry on rolling suitcase. It also have 360-degree wheels that'll happily go wherever you do and the interior? Well, let's just say you'll be able to find what you need when it's time to place everything on the conveyor belt.

Take that TSA agents!

OLOV 18” Underseat Carry-On Small Suitcase (Blue)

Embarking on a few quick getaways this summer and don't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage? You'll need to consider small rolling suitcases that are sturdy, yet lightweight. OLOV'S under seat carryon features an interior buckle to keep your items secured and allows you to pack the basics.

It also has a three digit combination lock in case someone decides to press their luck if you happen to fall asleep during your flight.

Vera Bradley Small Spinner Luggage (Fresh-Cut Floral Green)

In need of a portable rolling suitcase that can hold your clothes and serve as a charging dock for your phone? Vera Bradley already read your mind and has just the thing for you. The interior has two zippered sides that allow you to separate your necessities from each other based on function (clothes on one side and sandals on the other).

This spinner luggage also has an integrated lock that makes your time in TSA go a little smoother. If it's not obvious, we've had some rather unpleasant experiences with agents mishandling our items 😖.

Bric’s By Ulisse Carry-On Expandable Spinner with USB Port (MANGO)

If you thought we were done showing you chic and functional small rolling suitcases, you're almost right. Besides reminding us of the sunny weather we've been experiencing during spring, this carryon has a three stage telescopic handle that makes holding on a breeze!

From there, the interior has a pretty printed lining, full zipper section and mesh pocket, a stretchable strap to protect your items, and a shoe/laundry bag!

And just when you thought the features stop there, the carryon wants you to know it has a TSA-approved lock that comes with a universal key that only security can use to carefully inspect your items.

Sigh, we just love thoughtful designs!

BKYLN Tees Mint Gardenia Carry On Suitcase

Doesn't this cute mint green and floral suitcase seem like it was made to store all your vacation outfits? Designed in none other than Brooklyn, NY, this beauty is available in three sizes and is as functional as it's chic. It also has spinner wheels that make traveling a breeze and will look good no matter how it's stored.

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Lead image via Monos