 Another day, another COVID variant. Last week, we learned of omicron — a new strain of the virus that has more than 30 changes to its spike protein. The mutation is alarming scientists, who are working tirelessly to learn all they can about how it affects our vaccines, how fast it spreads and if it leads to more severe disease.
So, should we be worried? Reporter Julia Ries broke down everything you should know about the new variant and got experts’ predictions on how it may affect the pandemic. Despite this wild news, I hope you all had a relaxing Thanksgiving week and weekend. We’re about to be in the thick of the holiday season, so keep reading for some vital advice. We’ve also got some Cyber Monday deals below that you’re definitely going to want to snag.
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You Oughta Know  Thanks to diet culture, the holidays are often synonymous with shame over food and a lack of exercise. There’s one particular phrase related to this fact that can be incredibly problematic — and it’s something many of us say frequently during this time of year. Curious what it is? Reporter Alexandra Frost spoke with experts about it and how you can shift your thought pattern to a healthier one.
A Minute And Change Got a spare minute? Use it to change your life. Our “A Minute And Change” series will help you become happier, healthier and more productive by doing one thing a little differently. This week’s tip comes clinical psychologist Lyndon J. Aguiar on the one habit you should practice every day if you have morning anxiety:
Track successes, challenges and interpersonal interactions in a journal throughout the day to see if a pattern emerges right before days with high anxiety in the morning. This can also help your health care provider gain better insight into your condition.
Crushing On This 'Gram 
Before You Go... Read this deep dive on ‘COVID pills’ by senior reporter Catherine Pearson. The still-unapproved antiviral drugs may help reduce severe COVID if taken on time. So will they be a pandemic game-changer?
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