As a 38H cup kind of gal, I’m not the least bit embarrassed to say that the reason why I pitched this topic to my editor is because I know firsthand what it’s like to have asymmetrical breasts. Although back in my smaller days (I held steady at a C-cup until around my early 30s), my breasts were even and so perky that a bra really was a choice more thana necessity (you know, depending on the outfit), as the girls decided to show all the way out and get bigger over time (which seems to be genetic on my father’s side of the family), I noticed that my left one was becoming somewhat larger — not drastically so but…enough to where, whenever I looked in the mirror, I could see that one was hanging down a bit lower than the other.
When I spoke to my doctor (at the time) about it, he was like, “I mean…yeah.” In fact, he was so nonchalant that I almost felt ridiculous even bringing it up. Then, when he went on to explain that easilyover 50-60 percent of women experience some level of breast unevenness, that is what made me pretty much immediately take on the same attitude that he did.
That’s me, though. I’m not gonna assume that every woman who deals with asymmetrical breasts is automatically super cool with it — because it’s not like it’s a subject that is openly discussed a ton. So, if you happen to be a part of this particular club and, although you know that you have to accept it, you also know that you haven’t totally made peace with it…I’m hoping that by the time that you’re done reading this, you will have.
Because breasts are beautiful — no matter what “package” they come in. Straight up.
What Causes Uneven Breasts?
GiphySo, let’s begin with what is probably the first thing that you’re curious about: What causes uneven breasts to begin with? Honestly, it’s not just one thing. Asymmetrical breasts can be due to something as simple as shifts in hormones, pregnancy, breastfeeding (especially if your baby happens to prefer one breast over the other), drastic shifts in weight, or even good old-fashioned aging.
It also should go on record that when it comes to the parts of your body that “come in twos,” very rarely are they identical in size and shape: eyes, eyebrows, hands, feet…you get it. So, even people who think that their breasts are “identical twins,” that may not exactly be the case at all. Not really…not (pardon the pun) fully.
Anyway, talking to your healthcare provider can help you get to the root of whether any of these things are indeed the cause and if there is anything that can be done about it.
Okay, but what are some not-so-simple reasons that can cause your breasts to be uneven? One condition is known asbreast hypoplasia; it’s when you’re not able to produce enough glandular tissue to produce breast milk or for your breasts to look completely even. If your breasts have been uneven for about as long as you can remember, there’s a slight chance that you may have experiencedjuvenile (also known as virginal) hypertrophy during puberty; it’s what happens when your breasts grow so rapidly during adolescence that one may have gotten larger than the other.
We also can’t overlook things like a breast infection or even breast cancer (some additional signs of it include dimpling of your breasts, nipple discharge [that isn’t breast milk], breast swelling, and pain [that isn’t due to your cycle] and swollen lymph nodes that are underneath your arms or near your collarbone) as well. There are also a few rare conditions that can create uneven breasts (you can read more about themhere).
Bottom line, if your breasts have only recently made a noticeable shift, it’s important to let your physician know. Again, although there is nothing wrong with having uneven breasts as far as appearances go if they are connected to an underlying health issue, you need to find that out just as soon as you possibly can.
What Can Be Done About Uneven Breasts?
GiphyOkay, so what if it checks out that your breasts are healthy and your uneven breasts are all about something natural like hormonal shifts, pregnancy, or weight changes? Is there anything that you can do? For starters, there are procedures likelipofilling (which transfers fat from one part of your body to another),mastopexy (which is basically a breast lift), or getting breast implants. Sometimes, what women will opt to do is get a breast reduction in order to even out their breasts. The main thing to keep in mind with all of these options is while some are far less invasive than others, they are surgical and also not exactly the cheapest routes to take.
With all of that out of the way, is there anything that you can do from the comfort, convenience, and privacy of your own home? Yep, there is. Several things, actually.
Exercise. Whether your breasts are uneven or just not as firm as they used to be, getting your pectoral muscles in shape can help to make your breasts appear more even and youthful. Check out Women’s Health’s “The 20 Best Chest Exercises To Add To Your Upper-Body Workouts, According To A Trainer” for some solid workout tips.
Breast massage. Aside from the fact that giving yourself abreast massage can help with early detection if you happen to feel a lump or mass, it can also help to cultivate more elasticity, reduce the appearance of breast marks, and if you massage the smaller breast more, if that one is only slightly smaller than your larger one, it could cause your breasts to become more even-looking.
Bra shopping. It’s kinda wild that, with all of the intel that’s in the internet streets,80 percent of women are STILL wearing the wrong bra size (get fitted, ladies). On top of that, there is absolutely no telling how many avoid the rule that you should get 4-6 new bras every 12 months or so. As a sis with big breasts (check out “Here Are Some Breast Care Tips For Women In The 'Over D-Cup' Club”), although it took me a hot minute, I finally found a bra brand that I really like: Wacoal. They sell bras that don’t have that 90s Madonna cone-shaped look (the real ones know). Anyway, they have certain bras that are designed for asymmetrical breasts (several bra brands do). If you’d like to check some of their options out, clickhere.
Watch your estrogen consumption. I think it’s interesting that while some media likes to downplay how diet affects breasts,there are scientific studies that literally say things like, “Breast cancer is strongly associated with estrogens.” Know whatanother article on estrogen and breasts said? “Although there are no large clinical studies that support the use of bee pollen for breast growth, a diet containing phytoestrogens ― a compound derived from plants that can be found in bee pollen ― can mimic estrogen.” — and yes, estrogen can cause your breasts to grow. So, make sure to consume phytoestrogens in moderation, especially if you’re trying to (naturally) get your breast size under control.Some of those types of foods include soy, peaches, garlic, dried fruits, and flax seeds.
Peep some of your habits. Believe it or not, you might not have asymmetrical breasts so much as one breast is fuller than the other due to things like sleeping on your stomach or only one side (all of the time), having bad posture, and even constantly plucking ingrown hairs around your nipples (because that could lead to inflammation). So, if you do any of these things, before trying anything else, stop these habits and see if you notice some changes.
Remember: There Is Absolutely Nothing to Be Ashamed Of. AT ALL.
GiphyMany of our body parts are “sisters” not “twins;” I can’t recall where I first heard that saying yet it’s definitely the truth. I like my right eyebrow more than my left. Definitely my left foot is larger than my right. Don’t even get me started on howthe left side of my hair is thicker and grows faster than my right. Chile, what can I do but make peace with it?
Same thing goes for my left breast being bigger than my right one. In a perfect world, would I want my breasts to be as even as possible? Probably. Yet, I recently wrote an article for the platform entitled, “When It Comes To Your Life, Please Aim For GOOD. Never PERFECT.” so how much of a hypocrite would I be if I didn’t follow my own advice? And besides, they are still pretty full-looking, they’re healthy, and they still get stares from both men and women (LOL) — what’s to complain about or be ashamed of? Not one damn thing.
___
Again, if you’re someone who (also) has some form of asymmetry when it comes to your breasts, give yourself and your girls some grace. You’re not abnormal and it’s simply something that makes you — YOU. And anything that emphasizes that? Why not celebrate it? Amen? AMEN, chile.
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert