What if you had $1,000 to spend on your health?
Welcome to Wellness Diaries. In this series, we send readers $1,000 to splurge on any product, service, or experience—as long as it’s something that can enhance health. (Any leftover cash is donated to a charity of the diarist’s choice.)
This month, we shipped Wellness Diaries off to university and awarded funds to four college students.
Why? College can be an expensive and challenging time to prioritize wellbeing. A lot of healthy practices are free (so many on-campus climbing walls!) but many assists come at a cost. We selected students who did the research to find products to make their university experience a little healthier, surfacing products and experiences unique to their wellness journeys and stages in life. These picks aren’t unique to the university experience, though—there’s something for everyone.
In this diary, we have Korlan Amirkhanova, a third-year international student studying exercise physiology at University of Miami. Her picks include an air fryer, an Adidas sports bra, and a Casper sleep-promoting lamp.
Meet Korlan
Korlan is a third-year international student majoring in exercise physiology with interest in pursuing nutrition. She’s been a swimmer for 15 years and has visited more than 17 countries for competitions.
Her charity of choice: Leftover funds were donated to Friends of Miami Animals.
Korlan’s Diary
$249 Silk Sheets
LILYSILK 19MM 3PCS Fitted Sheet Set (Queen, Dark Teal)
Improving my sleep has always been a big priority for me because I’ve struggled with insomnia for a long time. Stress from college sports and studying definitely contributes to it. I got a life-changing item, an Oura ring, which I’m obsessed with. Also, I am a person with bacne. I’ve heard that silk bedding improves sleep quality and skin, so I’m excited to give this set a try.
$28 Matcha
St. Matcha Yume No Ukihashi Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
I switched from coffee to matcha over the last three months. I noticed that coffee raises my anxiety and I feel crushed after a few hours. That’s why I enjoy matcha—I still get caffeine, but not the stress or anxiety.
$50 Sports Bra
Adidas Powerreact Training Mediu-Support Hyperglam Bra (Brown)
I love working out, and the big thing contributing to it is a comfortable and supportive sports bra. So far, Adidas sports apparel has never disappointed me!
$100 Rare Beauty Haul
I appreciate Rare Beauty’s approach to makeup and its connection with mental health; accepting your imperfections and what makes you unique. I am very picky with my makeup products, so I can’t decide what exact product I want yet, but I’m excited to test some out.
$64.50 Wake-up Lamp
Casper The Glow Light (Single)
My cousin swears by this lamp—she says it helps her wind down and prepare for a smooth wake-up. Honestly, I don’t enjoy turning my lights on or opening my blinds for the first hour of the day, so I think this lamp could be handy.
$48.42 Air Fryer
Instant Vortex Mini Air Fryer (Black)
An air fryer is one of those things I’ve wanted to buy for a long time, but for some reason, I never did. During the week, I don’t have much time to cook, so I plan meals. The air fryer will help save time in the kitchen and without sacrificing food quality.
$119.99 Knives
Yatoshi Professional Kitchen Knife Block Set (5-Block)
The process of cooking is my favorite activity to relieve stress. It also helps me become more mindful of food I eat. I think cutting is 80% of the cooking process, so having sharp, high-quality knives will contribute to its effectiveness and my satisfaction.
$48 Tote Bag
I am a huge fan of tote bags. However, all of the totes bags I own (actually, there are only 2 of them) are more of a sporty style. I got interested in this one specifically since it’s still a functional bag where I can put all my necessities and use it more.
$27.98 Electric Kettle
Cosori Electric Kettle (Black)
Because I’m in the process of switching from coffee to tea, having a kettle would be very useful. Right now, I fill the pot with water and boil it on the stove, so an actual kettle will make the process easier.
$49 Sweatpants
OGLmove Double Waistband Sweatpants (Amsterdam Green)
Comfort comes first in my outfit choices! Naturally, this brand caught my eye with its motto: “Comfort in every style, feel good in what you wear.” I also love a good pair of comfy pants.
Total: $784.89
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