Struggling to keep the romance alive? Get creative. If there’s something you’ve wanted to try but were hesitant to—lingerie, new positions, even different lighting—Goldberg says now’s the perfect time to add it to your routine, as long as both partners are excited about it. “Sex for conception has this added layer of work to it, so it’s important to infuse it with creativity and things that take it up a notch,” she says.

And don’t be embarrassed to bring up your fantasies to your partner. Goldberg says couples tend to make assumptions about what their partner is or isn’t into, without taking into account that people’s sexual desires change. For example, one thing may have been off-limits five years ago, but now your partner could be more open. 

One of Goldberg’s favorite ways to help her clients spice things up is having them write a “yes/no/maybe” list—essentially, a list of sexual experiences you would and wouldn’t try (and the ones you’re on the fence about). You’ll learn more about your partner in the process—and you’ll have some menu options when you need some inspiration in the moment.

The mix of veggies like broccoli, kale, spinach, plus sea veggies allows this greens powder to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Jessica Cording, M.S., R.D., CDN, says it’s also a good way to aid digestion: “Because the organic veggies+ contains digestive enzymes, probiotics, and a little fiber, it can be a way to incorporate some gut-healthy elements into your day.”*

If you’re planning to opt for a mocktail, this mix works just as wonderfully with a few ounces of your favorite kombucha swapped in for the liquor portion (which will add extra gut-heathy probiotics to the party).

Because the formula is so simple, it’s actually really easy to adjust it to your tastes and to what you know works best for your body—while some people prefer the botanical feel of gin, others may opt for the more smoky flavor of mezcal or the sharpness of tequila.

While there are added benefits of working a greens powder into your cocktail, it doesn’t mean you’re negating the booze: “Just note, that doesn’t automatically mean your cocktail becomes healthy. A cocktail is still a cocktail,” says Cording. “From my perspective, it’s really about having a good experience and practicing moderation and safety when consuming alcohol.”

Make it even more Halloween-y by opting for a blood orange as your citrus component, or you could cut it with another citrus juice. Since this green juice cocktail takes only four ingredients to put together, it’s simple enough to whip up for any virtual shindig—and you’ll certainly be the toast of the party.

This clever take on the flavors of enchiladas uses zucchini in the place of tortillas—a swap that adds an extra dose of veggies. Plus, this replacement reduces the carbohydrates of the traditional recipe, for anyone who follows a low-carb lifestyle.

“Black beans, one of my top-two favorite legumes, are center stage in this creative dinner,” writes Cassy Joy Garcia in her new book Cook Once Dinner Fix. “They’re put to excellent use in some festive enchilada-stuffed zucchini boats.”

As for technique, “If you’ve ever attempted zucchini boats before, you know that there’s a bit of a trick to perfecting the method,” she writes. “In my opinion, not overcooking them is key. These boats are light, fresh, and gorgeous.”

The prep also calls for making more black beans than you actually need. Garcia recommends cooking them in a chili the next day, but you could use them in anything from veggie burgers to a delicious soup.

Every 30 days or so, the Sun visits a new zodiac sign. During this “season,” everyone feels the energy of this prevailing astrological sign, no matter what your Sun sign horoscope may be. The Sun moves through orderly Virgo, from August 22 to September 22, helping us streamline and systematize the chaotic areas of our lives.

Virgo is the second of the zodiac’s three earth signs and one of three mutable signs, meaning it’s adaptable and always up for a little self-improvement. Virgo is the zodiac’s editor, with keen eyes that can spot what needs to be fixed or improved. Maybe it’s time to address some health and wellness issues or to clear out the clutter and organize your workspace.

While there couldn’t be a better time for practical changes that will bring efficiency, try not to take on Virgo’s nitpicky tendencies in the process. Sometimes “done” is better than “perfect.”

As the sign of selfless service, Virgo loves to lend an assist. This has its pros and cons. Where’s the line between “being supportive” and meddling with unsolicited feedback? Be mindful of your intentions—and other people’s boundaries—during Virgo season 2021.

As we say goodbye to bombastic Leo season, here are seven ways to capitalize on the efficient, analytical Virgo season 2021 vibes:

“This study highlights the feasibility of a simple intervention, such as a dance class three times weekly, for improving not only fitness and metabolic profile but also self-image and self-esteem in postmenopausal women,” said Stephanie S Faubion, M.D., M.B.A., the NAMS medical director. “In addition to these benefits, women also probably enjoyed a sense of comradery from the shared experience of learning something new.”

In terms of more specific benefits, regular dancing was linked to improved balance, postural control, gait, and strength—altogether resulting in improved physical fitness that may help improve overall quality of life for postmenopausal women. Although it was a small study, the potential health benefits for this lighthearted form of exercise certainly seem promising.

Sure, there’s been vegan “cheese” on the market for a while, but it didn’t really go beyond the simple slice until recently—and even then, I wouldn’t go as far to say that it was to the artisan level that Whole Foods is noting for this year. “While using nut-based milks and ingredients like black garlic truffle, dill Havarti, and chive is unique, plant-based cheesemakers are also replicating the methods used to make dairy cheeses for more authentic textures and flavors,” they say on the website. If you ask me, this exploration of real cheese processes to make plant-based options is long overdue.

Can’t wait to see it in stores? We’ve got the 411 on making vegan cheese yourself, at home—and it’s not even that difficult. A good place to start is with this plant-based ricotta, which only takes four ingredients.