This year hasn’t been a total bust! I know the internet has been “cancelling 2020” since March but I want to share some things that have made this year great–a best of 2020 list! I’ve taken much of this stay-at-home this time to find what brings me happiness. A lot of that has me turning to simple things like going outside or incorporating a slower pace to my days. Things like leisure and peace were hard for me to come by but since creating that, I’ve been more apt to enjoy everything in a fuller way than I thought possible.
So, today I’d like to highlight some things that have made my 2020 a little better. Everything is broken into categories that span from podcasts to movies to products I’ve loved and much more!
Mel Makes It Happen Best of 2020 List
PODCASTS
Hormone Harmony: The End of PMS, Cramps, Infertility, and Cycle Syncing with Alissa Vitti
This is the best ever way I’ve heard fertility and female-centric information delivered with relevance to male and female listeners. Luke Story’s Life Stylist Podcast delivers hard facts and approachable information so everyone can learn something here!
How This Virus is Happening FOR Us, Not TO Us + The Connection Between Virus & Lyme
When the pandemic first started, I heard this episode from The Balanced Blonde // Soul On Fire podcast and it resonated immediately. If you still struggle to understand why we are experiencing everything coronavirus/pandemic-related then this episode offers a different perspective.
Joy. Want More? Listen Now! With Shannon Kaiser
While actually from late 2019, I listened to this episode this year. The Party in My Plants Podcast is thoroughly entertaining and information-filled and this episode was one that stood out to me. It is full of super amazing tips on how to live authentically, happily, and from a place of alignment with your wants and goals.
TMJ, Jaw Pain, Substance P: The Missing Link in Dentistry with Dr. Dwight Jennings
I know I’m not the only one who suffers from TMJ issues and jaw pain. I recently heard an episode of Luke Story’s Life Stylist Podcast with a dentist who specializes in addressing the inflammatory component that headaches, TMJ symptoms, forward head posture, tinnitus, earaches, and increased susceptibility to Lyme and other viruses. If any of these apply to you, then you’ve got to check out the episode!!
Cancel Culture, Empathy, Understanding, and Forgiveness with Creative Activist Dom Roberts
One of the best episodes I heard during the Black Lives Matter Movement during the summer, Dom Roberts brings the material to an approachable place on The Skinny Confidential Him and Her Show.
The Quarter Life Crisis
Fellow Millennials, you’re probably at this place or have experienced what feels like an early mid-life crisis. Why does this happen? The Goop Podcast breaks it down.
Make It Happen Podcast S2 E2
Living A Bigger, Fuller Life Beyond Diet Culture with Mélanie Le Blanc Sturgeon
Yes, I’m including one of my Make It Happen Podcast episodes as a favorite from 2020! This conversation changed so much for me. We are all bombarded with diet culture in our society and this episode strips away the food rules and explains the freedom of coming back to our version of true health.
MOVIES / SHOWS
Chasing Happiness (Amazon)
I know I wasn’t the only one who was crushed to hear the Jonas Brothers broke up back in 2013. This documentary was SO enlightening as to the many elements at play leading up to that point and how they’ve reconnected. They are brothers first and that heart is so well-captured in this film.
Little Women (Amazon)
The 2019 remake of the original story puts a new spin on the characters and adds a modern freshness to Laurie and Jo, played by Timothee Chalamet and Saoirse Ronan.
Little Women (PBS on Amazon)
Same title? Yes, I know! But this mini series was so good and it is probably a better place to start if you’re new to the Little Women story as it is the most comprehensive adaptation. The pacing of this version feels heartwarmingly true to the novel.
Les Miserables (PBS on Amazon)
This rendition of the classic story really dives into the details of the characters’ lives, their years-long hardships, and the themes of love and redemption in depth. I was crying alongside the characters and felt so attached after finishing the 6 episode mini series. I say that’s a sign of a well-made show.
photo from Netflix
Down to Earth with Zac Efron (Netflix)
A super-approachable dive into the environmental issues affecting countries around the world and how they’re working to resolve them through sustainability. It divides screen time between chats with grassroots organizations and locals and also provides an Anthony Bourdain-esque look at some unique entertainment spots around the city.
13 Reasons Why (Netflix)
Season 4 wrapped up the end of the gripping teen series based off of the book 13 Reasons Why. I have loved seeing the emotional development of the characters and a depiction of how processing trauma looks different for everyone. Many times shows depict characters playing out the same mistakes over and over again but I think the writing on this show is spectacular and makes it worth seeing if you haven’t yet!
Emily in Paris (Netflix)
Fresh, funny, and fabulous is the best way I can describe this show. I’m here for anything Lily Collins stars in and she shines vibrantly with her unique style and flair as a marketing expert hired to bring an American perspective to a Parisian company.
Never Have I Ever (Netflix)
While I’m not a Hindi teen, I think this show tugs at those memories from teenage years enough to make the show new and different but also majorly funny and relatable! It’s been my favorite comedy that I’ve seen in a long time!
YOUTUBE CHANNELS
Qigong with Ksney
I got introduced to qigong this year and it’s also been a big help with balancing my energy levels. It’s like the chinese form of yoga but much gentler and approachable for most any body!
Madfit
Maddie creates a variety of workout videos on YouTube from strength training to ballet to low impact and body part-specific workouts. I love her dance workouts! They’ve saved me from being bored at home during 2019!
The Moments
I particularly love her lymphatic drainage massage videos! Lymph drainage helps with depuffing and skin toning and watching a tutorial is perfect guidance for newbies like me!
photo from KOZE
KOZE
Pitched as chats about creating comfort in our minds, bodies, and souls, Kayln Nicholson introduces ideas we may not have heard of in the realm of health, wellness, and spirituality in a thorough and fascinating way.
APPS
Instacart
I don’t know about you but I’ve been ordering more groceries online the past several months. I started using instacart and I’m hooked on how efficient it is. I like that you can order from several stores all at once and get your items delivered on the same day or on the scheduled day of your choosing. Try it here or use my code to get free delivery on your first order: MMORENO8CBE16E.
Mercari
It’s easy to be a consumer these days and not think about what happens to items after they are purchased, but so much of what we buy can be reused! Mercari is a place to sell and buy new and/or used items to anyone throughout the United States. It works similarly to eBay but there’s a lot more seller and buyer protection here–plus, listings are easier to navigate. I’ve bought everything from workout gear to a set of books and more! Sign up with my link and get $10 to spend on your first purchase.
Depop
While mostly a place for reselling new and used clothes, Depop gives a life to secondhand items that would otherwise end up overflowing thrift stores or landfills. I love being able to shop for unique, vintage, or specific-style pieces that are not available where I live. Whether you’re buying or selling, you’re sure to find something that meets your taste on Depop.
Rakuten
Shopping online more than ever before? Yeah, me too. Rakuten offers frequent deals at a variety of merchants online and in-store. You can get cash back from shopping at places you’re already going to shop at. Whether I’m grabbing Target essentials or organizing a PetCo order (for Millie), there’s most always a chance to earn cash back. Rates begin at 1% of your purchase and at times can be as high as 15% of your order. The money then gets deposited into your PayPal account. I kind of prefer the desktop browser plug-in but you can also use Rakuten on a mobile device with their app. Sign up with my link and get a $10 reward bonus.
Honey
Again, if you’re ever online shopping you’ve seen that little box on the checkout page that allows you to add a promo code. Honey basically saves you time and scopes out deals and codes so you don’t have to. Consider it your automatic coupon assistant! Try it out here.
MUSIC
Happiness Begins album – Jonas Brothers
photo by Rank Ocean
Rank Ocean album – Rank Ocean
Everything from The Wallows
Evermore – Taylor Swift
TED TALKS
Every ted talk is a good one. I mean, the individuals were asked to be speakers for a reason, right? However, here are some that I saw this year which stood out to me.
Overcoming the Fear of Love – Trillian Small
How not to take things personally – Frederik Imbo
The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life – Jen Cohen
PEOPLE
I get super interested in people to the point where I’ll want to read their books, listen to their podcasts, watch their interviews, and just soak in all of their radiance. I’m not always quite so enamored by people but there have been a few that I’ve found to be expansive for me as a person this year.
Timothée Chalamet
After I saw Little Women I had a moment where I was doing just as I said above and diving deep into his previous interviews and revisiting his small array of films. I think what I find most inspiring about him as a person is his passion for the craft of acting. He respects those who have come before him and seeks learning and self-betterment. From his interviews, he seems quite humble about his own talents and keeps his ego in check so as to not take any success that he has received for granted. That sort of approach doesn’t resonate with everyone but I enjoy seeing the steadfast dedication he has as an actor and I’ve been dancing with how I can be more invested in the value of the work I am doing than how others perceive me.
photo from Netflix
Hasan Minhaj
I feel like the sky is the coolest person on the planet but she doesn’t attempt to know it all. His Netflix series, Patriot Act (definitely a favorite, too!!!) brought light to many issues affecting our political atmosphere. Many times these were issues not just affecting the United States but the world as a whole. It’s so easy now with the internet to provide a hot take that is under researched and more opinion than fact. Hasan spends time trying to gather the facts and he has a way of thoroughly presenting those to a lay audience (which is most people, to be honest) with relatability through humor.
My takeaway inspiration has to do with being willing to learn and investigate where no one else is willing to do that “hard work” because you know there is value in it. So, once you know what’s important, you convey that to an audience that probably hasn’t done the research themselves but now has a foundation of information that they can use to make better decisions for themselves and their communities.
Here’s a super cool video where he shares how he got to where he is and offers advice on figuring out your unique talents:
Mark Groves
I’m a big fan of all things relationships and love hearing about ways to create more real and fulfilling relationships. His podcast is full of those juicy, woke nuggets and you can also catch him on Instagram @createthelove. I’ve been inspired by what he shares because it’s very much rooted in doing the work on yourself so that you can go into relationships with your authentic wants and things to offer the relationship.
FOOD
Vegan Buckwheat Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe
I discovered the magical abilities of buckwheat flour this year, which is entirely gluten-free, and it resembles traditional flour nicely in baked goods. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve remade these pumpkin pancakes but they’re definitely a favorite from this year!
photo from minimalistbaker
Cheesy Chili Oil-Free French Fries
I started eating white potatoes more regularly this year. It’s been interesting to find ways to eat them that aren’t covered in butter and cheese (things I don’t eat and things that don’t make me feel good). I usually slice and soak my potatoes in water for a few hours before rinsing them and cooking. The spice blend and oven roasted nature of this fries recipe in particular is so tasty for me!
Dr. Praeger’s Kale Veggie Burgers
Store-bought veggie burgers are kind of a treat item for me. I like to have them on hand for quick meals but these don’t taste boring to me. The texture inside is soft but the outside is nicely firm, especially when cooked on a cast-iron skillet. I like serving them with sautéed carrots and cabbage or over a big salad with hummus. I get Dr. Praeger’s burgers at Vons but there’s a store locator on their website for other places you can find them.
Traditional Medicinals Cinnamon Stress Ease Tea
I’ve tried taking CBD for anxiety and stress but that doesn’t hold a torch to this cinnamon tea! I love tea and I feel significantly calmer after drinking a cup. I’m hooked!
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Oatmeal Bars Recipe
I don’t know how many times I made this recipe but it doesn’t even matter. These bars have been the best for an easy and filling breakfast. It might seem “wild” to use tahini in baked goods but I assure you these are delicious. Sometimes I’ll throw blueberries in instead of chocolate chips but they always come out delicious.
PRODUCTS
H. Gillerman Organics Jaw Clenching Remedy
I talk about this product in my TMJ tips and tools post. It’s a completely invasive oil that helps bring relaxation to the jaw muscles that I’ve found to be quite helpful!
Garden of Life Mood Probiotics
The bonus calming blend of adaptogenic herbs makes this probiotic a standout compared to the probiotics occupying shelves everywhere. Plus with it being organic, it has my stamp of approval!
photo from Amazon
Cushion Lab Cervical Pillow for Firm Neck Support
Someone recommended this pillow to me because I’ve had long-standing issues with neck pain. I can say that very quickly upon switching to this pillow, my neck pain is pretty much all gone! I am a back sleeper with a tendency to turn to the side and this pillow provides the perfect support for me. I do also like that Cushion Lab uses certified CertiPUR memory foam and organic cotton pillowcase coverings. I recommend it if the above sounds like you!
Tarte Cosmetics Creaseless Concealer
I’ve opted for a minimal or no make up look for the majority of this year but this concealer is powerful. A little bit under my eyes makes me look wide awake! I’m also happy to mention this one because it is a vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and this concealer comes in a wide array of shades!
TerraVita CBD roll-on
Topical CBD is usually available as a balm or salve which is okay…but I like this non-greasy formula! It’s very strong so it’s best to apply and wait a few minutes before going wild with the roll-on. It’s deep penetrating formula is meant for pain relief so you can feel the effects within minutes.
Saalt Menstrual Cup
Okay, fellow females, if you aren’t using a menstrual cup then you need to try it! I was tired of throwing so much plastic and material into the wastebasket each time I was on my period. Not to mention the upkeep of having to buy pads or tampons. The cup took some figuring out at first (accidentally pinching myself a couple of times, too) but if I could figure it out, I’m confident you can, too! I feel so much cleaner on my period with my cup and that makes a big difference in the way I feel about myself on my period, too.
Raw Sugar Lemon Sugar Lip Balm
I’ve been using the Raw Sugar mango + coconut lip balm for a while now but this year I tried the lemon sugar version just for fun and WOW, I’m in love. It’s not overly lemony or overly scented in any way at all. Subtle, sweet, and nicely moisturizing. I like all the Raw Sugar balms but this one is my new go-to. I used to get it at Target but the Lemon Sugar variety can be a little hard to find so I’ll link to it on Amazon. However, check your local CVS or drug store and you could probably find it for less there.
MISCELLANEOUS
There’s been so much that I’ve learned and enjoyed this year that cannot be linked to and, yet, is still important.
Nature
It has been the one thing that has helped me feel a sense of grounding through the heaviness and out of control state that the world has been in. Nature isn’t a trend or a hobby, it is a necessary part of my health and well-being. Spending even just a few minutes outside on a daily basis makes a difference for me!
Millie the Dutch rabbit
Millie
My little fair-bunny-turned-house-rabbit has been my side kick through it all this year. She’s a high-maintenance little character at times but she’s helped me learn to love again and find softness in myself, as well as just smile more! That is priceless.
Twice-a-day meditation
I originally learned to meditate through a program called Ziva Meditation but I’ve taken what I learned and made it my own. It advocates for 2 daily meditations, each 15 minutes in length. The time aspect was driving me nuts so I don’t abide by a strict amount of time now. Often 20 minutes feels like a good amount for me in the morning, but I often like to sit for longer in the afternoons. I feel much more clear, stable, and revived after meditating. It’s also my time for introspection and connecting with my inner self. A lot happens during these meditations and the benefits make the time allocation worth it for me.
Thanks for reading my Best of 2020 wrap-up post! There truly is a lot that I appreciate and have grown to love this year. Anyone who knows me knows I’m also not a fan of picking favorites so I feel pretty proud of myself for summing up the year with some standout things, as shown on this list. I hope I’ve given you some things that you’d like to try for yourself or simply entertain you for a little bit.
xoxo,
Melanie
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If you’d like to share, what’s on your best of 2020 list? You know I’d love to hear!
Wishing you a 2021 filled with joy and much to love!