Daily Skimm Weekend: I'll touch that fire

Eyes On

Republican Kevin McCarthy can finally say 'welcome to my House.' After five days, 15 ballots, and several very tense moments, the California lawmaker was elected Speaker of the House early Saturday morning. The victory came after the final six Republican holdouts voted "present," dropping the threshold needed to win. And after McCarthy flipped many GOP hardliners earlier on Friday, by making lots of concessions (think: on spending, allowing any lawmaker to be able call for his removal at any time). Now, with the House members sworn in, next up for the 118th Congress: a vote Monday on a rules package that includes many of his compromises.

What's Happening

…in your New Year's resolutions: A bit of awe can do wonders for your health. Here's how to experience it every day.

…in your friend group: The one that doesn't eat meat unless they're out for dinner. Meat, ahem, meet the social omnivore.

…in your beauty routine: There's a reason you may be seeing red. And it's not the only shade that can help with manifestation.

…in your travel plans: Call your best friend, it's time to take a "bestiemoon." And try this hack to increase the chance of an empty middle seat.

…in your parenting chat: PSA, hide your edibles.

Top Story

On the Defensive

Back in the Game: On Sunday, the Buffalo Bills will play their first game since safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field and suffered a cardiac arrest. (The cause isn't yet clear, but Hamlin is now breathing on his own and speaking.) Now, as the NFL resumes play this weekend, some are asking: Is it time to re-evaluate the sport and its life-threatening risks?

The Story

Every year, the NFL's regular season grabs hold of fans for 18 weeks of action-packed games. They tune in to catch the Hail Mary plays, team rivalries, comeback stories, and all the 'Did you see that?' moments. The sport's reality show-type spectacle — combined with tailgate parties and fantasy football — have helped create a football-crazed nation. And an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But earlier this week, Hamlin's injury brought people back to reality, serving as a reminder of the sport's inherent danger and violence.

Explain.

For years, research has shown the sport's potential long-term effects on players' health. Think: CTE, a degenerative brain disease, has been linked to repeated blows to the head. And players can also suffer concussions and other injuries. Over the years, the NFL's updated its safety rules. But this season alone, players have faced several different health scares. Hamlin's collapse may have renewed attention on the dangers of the sport, but will it actually spur more serious action? Or will the show just go on...as fans just watch on?

theSkimm

The NFL's regular season is coming to a close. But not without yet another reminder of the sport's risks.

Bookmark'd

Here's a look at the reads we've saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…

Breastfeeding Is Basically Impossible — Why Don't We Say That More?...one woman on what it can really take.

How Happiness Guru Laurie Santos Is Beating Burnout…the well-known Yale professor is taking her own advice.

What Squirrels Taught Me About Life After Divorce...it sounds nuts, but marriage and gray squirrels may have more in common than you think.

Downtime

Downtime doesn't have to mean doing nothing. Here's one idea for making the most of your weekend.

There may be no better way to kick off a new year than with a clean slate...literally. While TikTok videos and shows like "Tidying up with Marie Kondo" and "Get Organized with the Home Edit" may be entertaining, there can also be real mental health benefits to tidying up and decluttering your space. Think: relieving anxiety, boosting your mood. Here are some tips to consider if you want to keep your home so fresh and so clean, clean.

Choose the method that works best for you. Do you want to declutter one room at a time? Or, maybe you want to take Marie Kondo's advice and begin with a certain category, like clothes or books? Whatever you decide, avoid starting with the most overwhelming option, as it could slow down the process.
Set realistic goals. Not to be a Debbie Downer, but trying to take on your whole house in one day — even one weekend — is nearly impossible. Instead, consider starting small with something like a coat closet or that overflowing junk drawer. Remember: Little tasks can eventually add up to big progress.
Create three piles for keeping, donating, or discarding. If you don't know where something goes, ask yourself: When was the last time I used a particular item? Is it sentimental or special? Then go with your first instinct, so you don't make excuses. When you're done, take time to review what you're getting rid of — it'll help you make better choices in the future.
You don't need fancy storage bins. Sure, buying snazzy containers and labels may make you excited to get to work. But chances are, you can probably use what you already own (think: empty boxes, old Tupperware). That said, if it's in your budget, we've rounded up some products to help you organize your closets.
Ask for help. Recruit a friend or family member to be your assistant…or even just your cheerleader. Bonus: If you experience decision fatigue, they can also help with items you may be going back and forth on.

Skimm Picks

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Games, puzzles, and cards to stay inside with. From classic board games to memory tests, we've got everything you'll need to spend a winter weekend inside. Pro tip: Add hot chocolate for ultimate cozy vibes.

2. Must-haves if you're always freezing. Say hello to layers, warm blankets, hand warmers, and more. Kiss that chill goodbye.

3. How to keep your skin hydrated during winter. Achieve that baby-soft feel with hand lotions, lip masks, and unscented creams. Lather up.

Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.

On Our Radar

23% off sitewide at Havly in honor of the new year. Looking to refresh your bathroom? These towels are ultra-absorbent, plush, and have a lil' hanging loop. Psst...we've tried them and love 'em.

Skimm More

More Skimm, more knowledge. Here's what else we've covered…

Feeling the winter blues? Here are some tips to boost your mood
What to know about passive real estate investing, according to a #MoneyTok expert
Movement snacks, psychodermatology, and 5 other wellness trends to watch this year
How to level up at work, according to Kimberly Brown

Save the Date

Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...

Prepare some tea and crumpets. Prince Harry's "Spare" is out. And spoiler, it's sparing no drama.

The Golden Globes are back. Tune in at 8 pm ET on NBC or Peacock.

Friday the 13th. Maybe stay away from ladders and people named Jason.

PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.