Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 21 mai 2016
Tickle Your Taste Buds With Tart Pickle Recipes
Before Summer ends, get your hands on some fresh produce and start pickling it for the off season. While cucumbers are the obvious choice, try pickling carrots, green beans, and even fruit like pears. Once you've mastered a basic brine, expand your repertoire to Japanese, Mexican, Korean, and more international takes on pickling. Keep clicking to get pickling!
Swoon Over These Gorgeous Me Before You Movie Photos
Anxiously awaiting the arrival of Me Before You in theaters? The film adaptation of JoJo Moyes's bestselling novel hits the big screen on June 3, but in the meantime, you can get a sneak peek with a look at these gorgeous stills from the movie. Check out the beautiful trailer, plus some of the best quotes from the book, and keep reading to see all the Me Before You movie pictures that will make you swoon.
Warning: If you haven't read the book and you'd like to avoid any plot hints or spoilers, stop reading!
Visiting Machu Picchu? This Is Why You Should Make a Stop in Lima, Peru
If you're planning a trip to see Machu Picchu, then it's my duty, as a Peruvian, to suggest you make a stop in Lima, Peru, for a few days. I might be a little biased, but no one has ever said I was wrong after I swore up and down that a trip to the capital of Peru was the way to go and basically forced them to book a stay there. In fact, I can say that everyone I've persuaded has come back to me with a happy belly full of countless pisco sours (our national drink) and trays of fresh ceviche.
But even if food is not your main draw, there's so much to do and see in Lima - and the experience won't compare to your visit to the famous Inca structure in Cuzco. The city that over eight million Peruvians call home truly has it all: beaches, historic sites (we're talking pre-Inca stuff here, people!), cool bars, and two out of the top three restaurants in Latin America. You're feeling it? Then scroll ahead for everything you must see, do, and eat.
These Shiny Cakes Might Be Too Stunning to Eat
A baker from Norway is totally transforming the meaning of cake icing. Olga Noskova has skyrocketed to Instagram fame since posting images of her cake art online, and we completely comprehend why. Olga ices her cakes with a marble-like sheen in varying tones, and they actually look like they could be painted with a brush.
In response to her budding popularity, Olga posted a short video demonstrating how she pours the icing on the cake - but she doesn't reveal a complete guide. The inside of Olga's cakes are just as pleasing to the eyes: perfectly layered, intricately linear, and filled with jam! We're not sure we could re-create one of Olga's masterpieces at home, but we'll settle for a bite.
This Is Probably Why You Shouldn't Ask For Drugs on Social Media
You never know who will come across your social media accounts, which is why you should be careful of what you post. A girl, who goes by Twitter user preznixon16, really wanted some weed, so she asked the Twitter-verse.
WHOS IN SARASOTA FLORIDA AND HAS WEED #Sarasota
- Fly Shit Only (@preznixon16) May 8, 2016
And most likely thought it would go ignored. But as we know, once you post something on the internet, someone from somewhere will find it. Unfortunately, for the girl, the Sarasota Police Department in Florida answered her.
If you'd like to stop by our HQs, our Narcotics Detectives would be more than happy to talk. #SayNoToDrugs #LESM https://t.co/sQc8P2LHUL
- SarasotaPD (@sarasotapd) May 10, 2016
Of course, other users quickly commented on the police's tweet with their own opinions and memes:
@sarasotapd @preznixon16 http://pic.twitter.com/kH5tMMkypm
- ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (@070Clark) May 11, 2016
It doesn't appear that she ever got in trouble for her tweet, and according to Mashable, she never got her weed, which is probably for the best. The user, however, still stands by her tweets, saying:
Alright guys, my tweet does have a good message. There needs to be more weed in Florida. That shit shouldn't even be illegal.
- Fly Shit Only (@preznixon16) May 12, 2016
7 Magical Details About Once Upon a Time's Next Season
Once Upon a Time season five is over, but we already have a handful of details about the upcoming season. While the season finale gives us a few hints of what's to come for the characters and what new stories would be introduced, the show's lead writers, Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, have also slipped a few hints into recent interviews. As your anticipation grows, be sure to keep up on what all is in store for Storybrooke this next go around.
11 Exercises to Transform Your Flat Butt
Whether you inherited it from your mother or losing weight has left you with a flat and tiny tush, you secretly may be hoping for a fuller, shapelier bottom (maybe even one like Jen Selter). It's time to step up your strength-training routine. Just like hiking and running hills, these 11 moves will build, sculpt, and lift your glutes in no time! And her are some beauty tips to help your toned tush look even smoother.
- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb
5 Reasons It's a Small World Is the Absolute WORST Ride in Disneyland
I want to preface this by saying that I truly love Disneyland. Seriously, I'm obsessed with it and think it's perfect . . . except for one thing. I seriously can't stand the It's a Small World ride in the Fantasyland area of the park. Not only does the song make my ears burn, but there's a lot of elements of it that drive me nuts.
Of course, it's a Disneyland classic and I get that. My family insists on riding it every time we visit. But I'm not the only one who feels disdain for this attraction - there are many other visitors who don't like it. Here's why it's the worst ride in the whole park.
22 Refreshing Granita (AKA Grown-Up Snow Cone) Recipes
You don't need a fancy snow-cone maker to make shaved ice. You just need to learn how to make granita, which, thankfully, is really easy. It's an Italian-inspired frozen treat that's basically sweetened shaved ice that you can customize with any flavor (and/or booze) of your choice. If you've got a couple hours to spare while it sets in your freezer, you'll be on your way to an incredibly refreshing and delightful dessert you'll want to make on the hottest Summer days.
Here's Why the Harry Potter Studio Tour Should Be on Your Bucket List
Witches, wizards, and, OK, muggles, there's one travel destination worth all your Galleons to get to - the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London. I've done my fair share of Harry Potter-related traveling - from visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando to flying a broomstick where they filmed Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - but nowhere was I more in awe of the magic of the J.K. Rowling-penned book-series-turned-films than at the studio tour. From the moment you walk in and see the huge posters of the actors lining the walls, you'll have fandom goosebumps experiencing all the bits and bobs of this magical wonderland. Let me show you what I mean.
19 Hilarious Examples of What "Netflix and Chill" Really Means
The teens did it again - the slang term "Netflix and chill" is blowing up on the Internet with priceless memes, Vines, and other hilarious reactions. While its origins date back all the way to 2007, it's only now becoming part of mainstream vocabulary, including among those who aren't young and in college.
In case you need a refresher or simply don't know, the phrase is a euphemism for hooking up. If you still don't get it, look ahead to see how people are using it online. Soon enough, you too will start asking someone to watch Netflix and chill - if you haven't already.
Stop Throwing Out Chickpea Water! Here's Proof That It's Magical
You've probably been throwing out an insanely versatile ingredient your whole life, but that ends now! Aquafaba, aka the viscous cooking water from chickpeas, is the latest craze on Pinterest for its ability to mimic egg whites. Use a stand mixer or wire whisk to beat it into a fluffy, foamy meringue that can be used in vegan mayo, vegan marshmallow fluff, meringue cookies, or pie topping and even baked goods like cinnamon rolls. Allow these recipes to prove to you just how truly magical aquafaba is.
44 Disney Cruise Hacks You Need to Know Before Sailing
We've all got it wrong, because the happiest place on earth is not a Disney park, but a Disney cruise. Yep, I said it. I love Disneyland and Disney World as much as the next Disney devotee, but there are some drawbacks to the parks (like hordes of people, inescapable heat, and long lines) that you just don't deal with while sailing blissfully on blue seas. I recently took the Disney Fantasy's Western Caribbean trip for seven nights, and while I went in a little hesitant about the whole affair, my skepticism about being on board a ship with thousands of people - many of whom barely reached my waist - was checked at the entrance of the ship and buried deeper as the days went by.
Disney fans, book your cruise ASAP. Non-Disney fans, book your Disney cruise ASAP, because you can embrace Disney entirely aboard the ship or avoid it, and still have a VIP experience either way. Star Wars buffs, book your cruise on the Fantasy and have a special day at sea that biggest fans can only dream of.
For even more Disney inspiration:
Watch This YouTuber Transform Drake and Nicky Jam's Hit Singles Into 1 Hot Remix
If you think Nicky Jam and Drake sound sexy on their own, wait until you hear their hit singles mashed up, courtesy of YouTube singer Alex Aiono.
Alex combined Drake's "One Dance" and Nicky Jam's "Hasta el Amanecer" seamlessly, creating a bilingual edge that is just plain hot. Also - let's be real - he is, too. Alex's flawless cover totally deserves its own spot on your Summer playlist, and if you don't believe us, just hit play above to hear for yourself. Then, check out our ultimate party playlist.
17 Running Man Challenge Memes That Will Make You Want to Try It Yourself
The Running Man Challenge shows no signs of slowing down. Every few days, new videos and memes appear on the internet, and some of them are even funnier than the original video. It's only been a month since the challenge surfaced on the internet, so you can expect to keep seeing it for a few more weeks before it dies down. Ahead, see some of our favorite ones, and if those don't convince you to try the challenge, we don't know what will.
All the Game of Thrones Reunions That Could Be Coming
Sansa Stark and Jon Snow's reunion was touching for all of us on Team Stark, as we've been waiting and waiting for moments such as this - especially after some near misses along the way. It got us thinking: when have the Starks crossed paths, or almost crossed paths, on Game of Thrones?
A quick note: Jon may or may not be a Stark, but he is for all intents and purposes one of the Stark siblings - he even has one of the direwolves. So in our hearts, and the hearts of the other Starks, he will always be one of them in some form.
When did we last see the Starks together?
The Stark siblings have their big split on season one, when Jon Snow leaves for the Wall and Ned Stark takes Sansa and Arya south to King's Landing.
- Arya and Sansa are last seen together in King's Landing, before Arya is saved by Syrio Forel and then taken from King's Landing by Yoren of the Night's Watch, following her father's beheading.
- Bran and Rickon separate when Bran continues north to meet the Three Eyed Crow, the old man who helps him see those flashbacks we are so excited about. Meanwhile, Rickon goes with Osha, only to be handed over to Ramsay Bolton in season six.
- Robb Stark and Catelyn separate from the rest when they go off to fight the war (with some back and forth on Catelyn's part), only to be slaughtered during The Red Wedding.
When do the Starks almost cross paths?
- Arya and Sansa are both at the Eyrie and could have easily met again, but Arya and Sandor Clegane (aka The Hound) turn away from that opportunity.
- Bran and Jon almost meet, but Bran chooses not to reveal himself at Craster's Keep on season three.
- Arya almost meets with Robb Stark and Catelyn at The Twins (The Red Wedding), also on the third season.
- With Brienne of Tarth finding both Arya and Sansa, this is another near miss for the sisters to be reunited. Arya and The Hound don't know Brienne to be trustworthy, and they mess up this opportunity for a reunion in season four.
Will they meet again?
Now that Sansa and Jon Snow are back together and we all loved it, we have to imagine (and hope) that the show will give us other amazing Stark reunions. How could these reunions possibly come to pass?
- Arya is still training in Essos (Bravos) but is becoming quite a fighter and may certainly have a role to play in the final wars of Westeros. The question is whether she'll abandon her new status as "no one" to help her siblings.
- Rickon is given to Ramsay Snow in season six and used as a threat from Ramsay Bolton against Jon Snow and Sansa. Given the ending of season six's fourth episode, with Jon agreeing that it's time to stop Ramsay, we can hope Rickon will soon be joining Jon and Sansa. Let's just hope Ramsay doesn't kill him first.
- Bran is told by the Three Eyed Crow that he will not stay hidden underground forever and that he will have a role to play in the coming war (presumably between the White Walkers and the living). We imagine Bran will eventually reunite with whichever of his siblings are still alive at that point.
Stay tuned for a potential deadly and amazing family reunion! It will unfortunately not have Catelyn involved (while the book version of this certainly could in the form of Lady Stoneheart) but will hopefully have the siblings kicking butt.
How to Temporarily Disable - Not Delete! - Your Instagram Account
I have a love/hate relationship with my Instagram. There are a lot of things about it that I find #superf*ckingannoying, but from a photography standpoint, I do love following people with beautiful shots. And keeping up with my friends is cool, too. I'll often push Instagram away when I need some space, but like an ex I just can't quite quit, it will come creeping back into my life, and before I know it, I'm obsessed all over again and chronicling every detail of my #blessed life. Sometimes I just need a breather from social media in general, but I don't want to lose my prized portfolio of cat glamour shots and book porn in the process.
The solution? Disable, don't delete. Like with Facebook, Instagram users can temporarily suspend their accounts and return to them without losing their photos, comments, "likes," or information. Here's how to take a break without throwing away all your memories.
31 Things You Need to Start Doing For Yourself in Your 20s
If you are in your 20s, take a deep breath - nobody expects you to do everything right. This decade is all about trying to figure your life out. It can be easy to get distracted by work, relationships, money, and so much more, but your first priority should be taking care of yourself. Twenty-somethings, make sure you're doing all of these things for yourself to make today and your future so much better.
- Wear sunscreen every day.
- Start buying yourself flowers every week; it will improve your happiness level so much.
- Start your 401(k) and a savings account.
- Set aside a (small) portion of your paycheck to treat yourself to something on your wish list.
- Drink lots of water. Your body will thank you.
- Work out or go for a run whenever you're feeling down. It distracts your mind, floods you with endorphins, and helps you stay fit.
- Get your hair colored by a professional, not a box.
- Go Facebook-free for a week.
- Stop relying on your parents for money.
- Learn a few go-to recipes.
- Get rid of clothes you have had since high school.
- Stop getting blackout drunk.
- Don't punish yourself for buying lattes if it makes you happy.
- Deck out your office desk.
- Start practicing preventative moisturizing.
- Stop doing things because you feel obligated.
- Don't compare yourself to others.
- Feed your body right on a regular basis - but save room for the occasional treat, of course.
- Begin paying off college debt.
- Treat yourself to something new for your home that will make it a cozier and happier place to live in.
- Don't avoid the dentist.
- Pick up a new hobby or activity, even if it means doing it completely on your own.
- Pay off your credit card every month.
- Start letting go of toxic friends.
- Don't change or compromise aspects of your personality and who you are for someone you're dating.
- Have art on your walls that's not just unframed posters.
- Call your family. Email them. Send them a note when you miss them. They miss you just as much, if not more.
- Start hosting cocktail parties at home.
- Say yes to everything. This is the time to experiment and try anything, and you most likely won't regret trying.
- Remember to love yourself, always.
- Get the guacamole. It's only $1.80 extra.
More Than 100 Chihuahuas Race For Charity in Their Fanciest Outfits
We don't think we've ever seen so many fashionable Chihuahuas in one place! On May 1, more than 100 Chihuahuas and their humans descended upon Winter Park, FL, for the fourth annual Running of the Chihuahuas. The dogs participated in a race to the finish, and the event raised $2,000 for local animal charities. Scroll through for some of the cutest pictures you've ever seen from this superfun event, then check out what happened when a bunch of dogs tried to set a Guinnes World Record in Arizona.
1 Guy Perfectly Captures the Struggles of Flying Alone in a Hilarious Snapchat Story
In-flight boredom is a thing of the past thanks to Snapchat - and this person totally nails why. Imgur user TwentyBucksIsTwentyBucks ended up on a flight with an entire row to himself with nothing to do. So, instead of becoming bored, he decided to stay entertained by creating a Snapchat story with stick figures to hilariously describe the struggles of flying.
He cleverly inserted relatable situations and characters into his story, like fighting with your neighbor for elbow room, the inevitable crying baby, and people watching during a layover. His snaps, along with many others, just prove that when you need some good entertaining, getting creative on Snapchat can easily solve your problems. Read on to see his hilarious travel story unfold.
15 Moments You Wouldn't Know How to Explain to Previous Generations
Whether it's the "Damn, Daniel" meme or the poses we do for selfies, our generation has created a lot of weird trends that are hard to explain. It's exactly for this reason that popular social sharing app Yik Yak asked millennials what they wouldn't know how to describe from this era to aliens.
For some people, it was duck face. Another just didn't know where to begin on explaining smartphones. Read ahead to see some of the best answers - it might make you wonder if we should rename our generation any of these things.
Listen to the No. 1 Summer Jams of the Last 25 Years
Do the first few notes of TLC's "Waterfalls" bring you right back to 1995? There's nothing like an old, familiar song to spark feelings of nostalgia, so to get excited for the warmer months ahead, we're looking back at the No. 1 songs of the past 25 Summers. Find out which songs will take over this year, then keep reading to check out the top Summer hits from 1991 to now - plus a Spotify playlist you'll probably have on repeat.
8 Signs You're a Little Too Frugal
We are all about leading a frugal life, but when it gets in the way of daily activities and your relationships, it's gone a little too far. A line has to be drawn on your love of saving money. Find out if you have taken frugality to the next level - it might be time to reign it in!
You Need to Decide How You Feel About the Monkey Emoji Debate Right Now
seriouse question!!!
- jomny sun (@jonnysun) May 9, 2016
🙈🙊🙉
Of course, the poll instantly drove Twitter users into an outrage and everyone is picking a different side for several reasons.
@jonnysun it's 3 different monkeys what the hell jonny
- Jarry (@jarry) May 10, 2016
.@jonnysun Wikipedia literally states there are THREE wise monkeys with THREE SEPARATE NAMES. check and mate. http://pic.twitter.com/2CtqbpSRjE
- Sam Escobar (@myhairisblue) May 10, 2016
@jonnysun
- darth™ (@darth) May 10, 2016
ONE MONYKEY JOMNY 🐵🙈🙉🙊🐒
ONE CATTE 😹😻😺
@jonnysun Not even a debate. The "one monkey" people are explicitly wrong http://pic.twitter.com/nW5ePUZAeU
- Andrew McDonald (@AndrewM138) May 10, 2016
@jonnysun my brother's opinion (markings = monkeys) http://pic.twitter.com/TgKFYpAr0P
- ✨isabel✨ (@iz_aries) May 11, 2016
@jonnysun IS THIS REALLY WHO YOU WANT TO AGREE WITH PEOPLE??? http://pic.twitter.com/vekqGcn1s4
- The Monkey Emoji (@onlymonkeyemoji) May 10, 2016
The poll, which ended, came in pretty close. Of the 211,701 votes, 53 percent believe it's one monkey and 47 percent believe it's three different monkeys. Sun himself believes it's only one monkey. Now it's time for you to decide. Is it one monkey or three? Let us know in our poll.
This Keyboard App From Google Will Change the Way You Use Your iPhone
It's time to meet the next app that's going to change your life and make you wonder how you lived without it. Meet Gboard, a keyboard app from Google that lets you search for GIFs within a text message, swipe to text, and so much more.
The app, available for iOS, integrates into your iPhone as a regular keyboard. To use it, tap the globe icon and switch to the Gboard. The capabilities of what you can do with it are endless. Trying to tell a friend to meet you at a restaurant? Search for it in your text message and send them the address. Or, find the perfect GIF that shows off how you feel and send it away - all without leaving Messages. The best part about this app is the ability to swipe to text - something insanely useful when you only have one hand free.
We had a chance to play around with it and were very impressed. The predictive text function works much better than the one on iOS. For example, if you type in a company name, like Amazon, the keyboard will ask you if you wanted to search for it. Typing in something like "Want to have dinner tonight" will prompt the keyboard to ask if you want to search for restaurants around you. Trust us when we say this is one app that will become as common on iPhones as Instagram and Snapchat are.
Look ahead to see different functions of the keyboard in action and maybe you'll be convinced to make space on your iPhone for it.
Does the New Harry Potter Ride Really Make You Sick?
Harry Potter fanatics, the wait is OVER. The new Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hollywood is officially open (!). I toured the park and rode the attractions (and then rode them again, and again) before the big day. Is it everything a Potterhead ever dreamed of? Will you want to quit your day job and live there forever? Yes and yes. From a Harry Potter-obsessed fan perspective, I can honestly say that the magic of the books, movies, and original Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando has officially made its way to LA.
The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride is one of the main park attractions; the castle looms over Hogsmeade and beckons parkgoers to enter its magical depths. It's an interactive tour of the Hogwarts castle that turns in to a full-blown 3D adventure. There were some early reports that the ride was causing people to feel particularly dizzy or nauseous, and I was curious not only to just experience Forbidden Journey, but to see how I felt afterwards as well. Check out the details on what the new park is like, and then see the stars of the films say their favorite lines from the Harry Potter movies.
You wear 3D glasses.
In order to get the full effect of the ride, parkgoers are given 3D glasses that allow them to experience simulations that occur as you are transported through the Forbidden Journey. This is different from the ride at Universal Studios Orlando, which does not require glasses. The adventure takes you over the Great Lake, the Quidditch pitch, through the castle, and beyond. For me, it definitely added to the experience, and made everything seem more realistic.
You get to see some of your favorite characters.
Faces of famous wizards and old Hogwarts friends show up throughout the ride. You'll soar over the Quidditch pitch with Harry, have an encounter with his arch-nemesis Malfoy, spot Hagrid, a dragon, dementors, and more along the way.
There's a tour through the castle first.
When you're at an amusement park, the absolute worst part of the trip is waiting in lines for rides. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey's solution to this problem is that the path leading to the actual ride is basically an attraction in and of itself. Fans tour the inside of the Hogwarts castle, go through classrooms, pass talking portraits and Gryffindor's Fat Lady, see the Sorting Hat, and may even converse with Dumbledore, Harry, Ron, and Hermione. There are SO many wonderful details throughout this trip that the journey itself is as good as the actual 3D destination.
It is a bit of a bumpy ride, but nothing out of the ordinary.
I don't typically get motion sickness in any way. I can read in the car, be on a boat for hours and not be bothered, and ride a roller coaster a hundred times without feeling sick. For me, Forbidden Journey had no effect whatsoever. It was definitely a bit bumpier than the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey in Orlando, but I felt completely fine when I walked out (great, actually, considering my inner superfan was jumping up and down from the experience).
I rode the ride a total of three times, with no ill effects. One of those times, I rode with two other parkgoers who mentioned feeling slightly dizzy/queasy, but nothing out of the ordinary or that couldn't be expected from a 3D ride of this nature. So the verdict? The ride is different (and arguably more elaborate and exciting!) than Orlando's, but it does have a few more dips and curves, not to mention the added 3D effects. If you are prone to getting nauseous already, like with any other roller coaster or 3D ride, this may make you a little dizzy, but no more than any other attraction in this style would. And the whole new park in general? It's straight up MAGIC.
How to Clean Your Front-Loading Washing Machine
Front-loading washing machines are energy efficient and use less detergent than top-loaders, but they sometimes have a tendency to harbor mold and unpleasant smells. By giving your washing machine a quick clean once a month, you'll keep your front-loader fresh, which means cleaner clothes, too. This eco-friendly method doesn't use bleach, costs only pennies to make, and comes together with ingredients you already have on hand.
What You'll Need:
- 2 cups vinegar
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup water
- Scrub sponge
Directions:
- Start by mixing together the baking soda and water in a small bowl. This is going to be the "detergent" for cleaning the washing machine. Pour the vinegar into a measuring cup and head over to your washing machine.
- Add the baking soda mixture to the detergent container of your machine and pour the vinegar into the drum. Set your washer to normal load at the hottest water setting. Close the door and start the machine, letting it do all the hard work for you. The baking soda and vinegar naturally break up mineral deposits and any mold growth while cleaning and refreshing your washing machine.
- Use a clean scrubber to rub around the opening of the washing machine, removing stubborn mold or residue. Wipe clean with fresh water.
- Your washing machine is sparkling clean and ready to do a load of laundry! Give your front-loader a cleaning once a month to keep your clothes smelling fresh and your machine working in tip-top condition.
- Once you're finished with your washing machine, take a few minutes to clean your dryer too!
Taco Bell's Restaurants Are Becoming Completely Unrecognizable
You're going to want to skip the drive thru. We had to do a double take looking at Taco Bell's just-announced store redesign. In an effort to entice customers to sit down and leisurely enjoy dinner, Taco Bell is overhauling its restaurants by giving them one of four decidedly upscale design makeovers highlighted by open kitchens, community dining tables, and environmentally friendly touches.
The redesign will be embodied by four design models: the Heritage model is a return to the restaurant's original Mission Revival style with materials like tile and heavy timber. The Modern Explorer model will be seen in surburban and rural locales and will include rustic design elements that give a nod to the farms where the food is sourced. The California Sol model features a beachy indoor-outdoor layout that encourages al fresco dining. Finally, the Urban Edge model will embrace street style and eclectic international details.
The renovation will debut at four locations in Orange County, CA, but the chain plans to overhaul all their stores by 2020. Bars and tables in the Orange County restaurants are made with reclaimed wood - and it's completely recycled. Even the walls are getting a colorful mural update. We spy some midcentury lounge chairs that we wouldn't mind in our own homes. Hats off to you, Taco Bell. Next time we're craving, we will definitely rethink staying in the car.
Rachael Leigh Cook Is Selling Her House and It's All That
Your favorite '90s movie star, Rachael Leigh Cook, has grown up a lot since the classic She's All That premiered in 1999. Rachael has grown up so much that her family has actually outgrown the West Hollywood home she purchased around the same time her hit film came out. Now married with two kids, Rachael just listed her home for $3.3 million, which is more than $2 million more than she paid for it. Situated on a private lot, Rachael's French-inspired country home has three bedrooms and a guest house. The home is ideal for entertaining with an outdoor brick fireplace, vast patio, and even a jacuzzi - although we're sure Rachael wasn't hosting the type of party we're used to seeing her attend, since she does have toddlers. We're just surprised she would want to give up her impressive views of Los Angeles.
1 Woman Followed a Faulty GPS Route Only to End Up Submerged in a Lake
We often rely on our GPS to take us to destinations near and far but hardly ever to take our vehicle straight into a lake. But that is exactly what happened to one woman from Ontario, Canada, on May 12, when she followed inaccurate directions from her GPS. The driver (who wishes to remain unidentified) was following a route on a foggy night when her GPS tracker led her down a boat ramp and into the Georgian Bay.
Thankfully, the woman was able to roll down her window and swim out of her sinking car to safety, while her vehicle sank and ended up completely submerged at the bottom of the bay, reports the Toronto Sun. We are happy to hear that the driver is safe and in good spirits following her freak accident, but her unfortunate experience is a scary reminder that while technology can make life more convenient, it can also cause unwanted (and scary!) problems. You can see photos of the car below.
20 Absurd Struggles Only Millennials Could Understand
If you fall into the category of being a millennial, chances are you've been told you're entitled, lazy, and too connected to the Internet. While none of these characteristics may apply to you, or even encompass what it means to be part of the generation, the time has come to embrace the title.
Being in this group means growing up on the cusp of using AIM and Facebook. Some of us might still even read paperback books. But we also have a handle on technology that's just as good as an iPad-obsessed toddler. It's our way of living, and other generations might not understand it, but that's totally OK.
Ahead, check out 21 things only our generation would understand. Let's cheers to our smartphones, laptops, and really, all technology - we wouldn't know who we'd be without it. (Probably still entitled, right?) Read the list, celebrate the millennials of the world, and while you're at it, take all the selfies you want.
This 24-Hour Hello Kitty Cafe Is the Perfect Excuse to Travel to Singapore
Is visiting every Hello Kitty cafe on your bucket list? Get ready to add another one to that list. A new 24-hour Hello Kitty cafe is set to open in Singapore's Changi airport.
The cafe, called Hello Kitty Orchid Garden, is located in the arrival hall of Terminal 3 and opens May 12. It joins the other numerous Hello Kitty cafes and restaurants around the world. The theme for this place is an "orchid garden," a nod to Singapore's national flower. Here, you'll get to consume pastries, indulge in cakes, do a teatime, and eat several types of dishes in the shape of everyone's favorite cat. Of course, you can also buy Hello Kitty merchandise, some of which will be Singapore-exclusive.
Check out photos of the cafe and its food ahead. And if you suddenly find yourself desperately needing to go and visit, make it a trip and plan to also see a Kiki's Delivery Service-inspired bakery in Japan.
16 Facebook Messenger Tips That Will Change How You Use the App Forever
Facebook might've forced us to start using Messenger, but we're not too mad about it. The app has made group messaging something easy and fun to use instead of annoying and cumbersome. Whether you use it a lot or with just a few friends, learn these useful tips ahead. It'll change how you use the app and make you realize Messenger's potential. Once you're a pro at those, check out other tips to become Facebook proficient.
vendredi 20 mai 2016
10 Agua Fresca Recipes Guaranteed to Keep You Cool This Summer
Agua fresca is a beverage everyone needs in their Summer drink lineup. Whether you plan to spike it with a bit of booze or simply use it to cool down after a hot day, this refreshing drink is fully customizable - and a total crowd pleaser. From paleta-worthy fruit varieties (like scrumptious mango and pineapple) to always-good jamaica, you can't go wrong. The best part is, they're super easy to make. Need a little inspiration? Keep scrolling for some seriously mouthwatering recipes!
Alessandra Ambrosio Looks Like a Princess in Zuhair Murad at the Cannes Film Festival
Alessandra Ambrosio continues to heat up the Cannes Film Festival - with each of her red carpet looks being sexier than the last.
The Brazilian Victoria's Secret Angel took things to a princess-worthy level at The Last Face's premiere in a Zuhair Murad Couture Spring/Summer 2016 intricate look: a beaded jumpsuit with a superchic tulle net-covered skirt overtop. Alessandra literally sparkled in the edgy-yet-feminine number, which she paired with a snake-inspired choker, a simple topknot, and Summer-ready bright red lipstick. Keep scrolling to see even more pictures of her showstopping look, and then watch her show off her samba moves at the amfAR Gala.
The Most Beautiful TV and Movie Weddings of 2016
Movie and TV weddings are always gorgeous, thanks to big budgets and production designers, but honestly, they're also beautiful because in a lot of cases, you've come to love the characters who are getting married so much. This year has brought us the unions of lots of our favorite TV characters, along with some equally wonderful movie nuptials. Check out all the sumptuous stills of 2016's onscreen weddings, and if you're getting married too, maybe there's some inspiration in here!
Jon Snow Might Discover the Truth About His Parents in a Totally Unexpected Way
Game of Thrones has a way of letting viewers get the tiniest bit comfortable before completely ripping the rug out from underneath them - and because we've grown so confident in our assumptions about Jon Snow's origins, it's high time for the show to completely shatter our expectations.
Since the series has been grooming Bran's storyline to reveal the big secret about Jon's real parents, one Redditor thinks that HBO will surprise everyone by revealing the truth through a much more unexpected scenario. In a long, detailed explanation that provides 18 separate citations (including both proof within the series and iconic fantasy tropes that likely inspired the show's creators), Reddit user jamieandclaire theorizes that Jon will learn the truth when exploring the Stark family crypt after retaking Winterfell.
It sounds crazy, right? But the theory purports that Ned Stark, wanting to honor his sister Lyanna's memory without endangering his half-Targaryen son (Jon), had a tomb built for Jon within the Winterfell crypts. It is a Stark tradition to prepare these graves far in advance, and the crypt is huge - there are multiple levels, one of which was blocked off to regular visitors by rubble. Here's how the Redditor suggests the revelation would go down:
Jon, upon retaking Winterfell, decides to go down into the crypts to visit Eddard's grave, but finds that Ned's bones haven't come to Winterfell yet. He instead passes by the future resting places of his siblings . . .
He stops for a moment, sad with the new knowledge that there is no life everlasting for him or his siblings. Then, remembering his nightmares [about the crypt] (or perhaps finding some clue in Ned's empty grave), he continues down to the lower levels of the crypt in the growing darkness.
His finds his way is blocked by rocks and rubble from the collapse. He considers going back, but something catches his eye beyond the obstruction. He begins pulling at stones, and sees another tomb, prepared and empty.
Clambering over the debris, he walks to the tomb and holds out the torch in the darkness, wiping away the dust from the slab. And this is what he reads.
While much of this theory is sound, some of the most convincing points actually come from the A Song of Ice and Fire book series, not the HBO show. Here are some of our favorite indications that Jon might learn his own story among the dead of Winterfell.
- Jon Snow has dreams that bring him to the depths of Winterfell's crypt: "And then I find myself in front of the door to the crypts. It's black inside, and I can see the steps spiraling down. Somehow I know I have to go down there, but I don't want to. I'm afraid of what might be waiting for me," Jon describes in the first book. Additionally, the Redditor notes that "when Ned is killed, Bran and Rickon both dream of him in the crypts, sad, saying something about Jon."
- Parallels between Bael the Bard's tale and the R+L=J theory: The story of Bael the Bard comes up multiple times in the series. Bael, the king beyond the Wall far before Jon's time, infiltrated Winterfell disguised as a singer and wooed Lord Stark's daughter. He "stole her away" (much like Rhaegar Targaryen is accused of doing to Lyanna Stark) in the middle of the night, leaving a blue Winter rose (Lyanna's favorite flower) in her bed. Many months later, the daughter returned with a baby of her own - she had never left Winterfell, simply hidden in the crypt. That son, the bastard of Bael the Bard, went on to rule the North. Can you see the connection between this lore and the theory about Jon's parentage? And it all comes back to one place: the crypt of Winterfell.
- Foreshadowing from ancient Targaryen lore: Another story repeated in the series, points out the Redditor's theory, is that of Vermax the Targaryen dragon. Vermax supposedly laid eggs in the Winterfell crypt during a visit from Prince Jacaerys Velaryon, creating a theme of Targaryens/dragons being hidden in Winterfell's hall of the dead.
- Ned Stark could totally have prepared Jon's grave in secret: Because the lower level of the crypt is blocked off by rubble, none of the Stark children or visitors would stray into the closed-off parts . . . plus, Ned Stark could have commissioned a stonemason to design the tomb without anybody finding out. Tyrion mentions in season two that stonemasons typically can't read - "He was a well-read stonemason? Can't say I've ever met a literate stonemason!" - which means that the words inscribed on the tomb would reveal nothing to the tradesman who carved them. Plus, the theorist believes this scenario could explain both Hodor's mental impairment and his fear of the Winterfell crypt: "If the lower levels were collapsed on purpose, it's possible that Hodor was asked to help, as he was big and strong. There could have been an accident which left him with a head injury. We know that at a certain point, Hodor was terrified of entering the crypts."
- This theme would honor the fantasy tradition of Lancelot: The story of Lancelot (orphaned as a baby only to become one of Arthur's knights) is arguably one of the most famous in fantasy lore, time and again inspiring authors and filmmakers. "Sir Lancelot . . . conquers a keep called the Dolorous Gard where Queen Guinevere is being held. He renames it the Joyous Gard. In the graveyard is a tomb covered by a giant jeweled metal slab, engraved to indicate that only the man who conquers the keep will be able to lift it. He lifts the tomb's slab with ease, and beneath it is written 'Here will lie Lancelot of the Lake, the Son of King Ban.' He thus learns he is a prince inside a grave," the Redditor wrote. The similarities between Jon's storyline and Sir Lancelot's - including the variations of a "tower of joy" where a woman is being held hostage - could be a huge clue that this theory is accurate.
- Game of Thrones needs a major cliffhanger to hold us over until season seven: This theory would likely come true in one of the final episodes of season six, so it totally fits the timeline that the show usually follows - reveal something huge, then keep everyone waiting for another year.
So, do you buy this insanely detailed theory? We're definitely convinced! While only time will tell if Jon discovers his own truth in Winterfell's burial place, we're almost positive it'll happen this way in the show, the books, or both.
The Secret to Telling Property Brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott Apart
While watching an episode of Property Brothers, it's easy to distinguish clean-cut Drew in his professional button-down from hammer-swinging, stubble-covered Jonathan - but when these identical twins were kids, the differences weren't always so obvious. "People would mix us up all the time, even our parents," Jonathan told us in an email interview. Not surprisingly, the jokesters put the confusion to good use pranking people. "For a while Jonathan was parting his hair in the opposite direction as me so people could tell us apart," Drew said. "To mess with our family and friends one of us would come in to the room and then run out and part our hair in the opposite direction and come back to try to confuse everyone."
Telling the brothers apart was even more confusing on the phone, where their voices are virtually indistinguishable. Luckily, the twins' mother came up with a trick to tell them apart. "My Mom would say the way she could tell Drew and I apart was because I use bigger words," Jonathan said.
One area where it's easier to tell the two apart is their bedrooms. In the dreamy Las Vegas house they designed and live in together, their bedrooms are completely distinct. "I like conversation pieces. From my travels I have a volcanic rock idol that was hand-carved," Jonathan explained of the eclectic knickknack collection you'll find in his room." As for Drew, besides the giant closet the fashion-lover designed, he says his room embodies his "rustically modern" aesthetic. "You would see a lot of grey and bit of color pop in along with wood or metal," Drew said, adding that there are "some rustic elements or some traditional patterns mixed in with a more modern design."
While we can only dream of stepping into their personal quarters, we can get up close and personal with their bedroom design through their first-ever bedding collection, a part of their Scott Living Collection. It's composed of six-piece comforter sets, plush cotton towel sets, and cotton sheet sets all priced between $40-$166. Jonathan says he can't get enough of the vibrant, colorful bedding, while Drew loves the diversity of patterns. The collection launches Friday, May 20, at 7 p.m. EDT on QVC and is available on QVC.com.
A Dynamic Yoga Sequence to Help You Build a Stronger Body
Sure, yoga is great for calming the mind, but this ancient practice can also give you a strong body to boot! Get psyched for beach - or naked - time with these 12 challenging poses that will tone your butt, thighs, abs, and upper body. Follow this 12-pose sequence through on the right side, and then repeat on the left.
Related: A Debloating Yoga Sequence
1 Guy Wrote the Most Hilarious Love Letter . . . to His Thesis Paper
If you've ever written a thesis paper, you can probably remember all the hours, time, care, and energy you put into your project. Similar to the strife and effort you'd put into a relationship, right? One recent graduate turned in his 10-plus-page grad-school thesis, and in honor of all the time spent working on his final assignment, he wrote a visual love letter to his paper to capture all the good times and struggles they've shared - from grabbing drinks together on a Friday afternoon to the final goodbye. Read on to see the hilarious tribute to an inanimate yet very important object.
Ewan McGregor Will Be the Star of Fargo Season 3
It's been so long since Fargo's second season wrapped that you may have forgotten all about FX's crime drama, but some big news has been announced about season three: Ewan McGregor has signed on to play two brothers. According to The Hollywood Reporter, McGregor is playing Emmit Stussy, "the Parking Lot King of Minnesota," and his down-and-out brother, Ray Stussy.
"A handsome, self-made, real estate mogul and family man, Emmit sees himself as an American success story," writes THR. "His slightly younger brother, Ray Stussy, on the other hand is more of a cautionary tale. Balding, pot-bellied, Ray is the kind of guy who peaked in high school. Now a parole officer, Ray has a huge chip on his shoulder about the hand he's been dealt, and he blames his brother, Emmit, for his misfortunes."
The series is set to begin production later this year (check back for more casting updates soon!), and season three will premiere in 2017.
#BestPartOfThe90s Will Slap You With Some Serious Nostalgia
Who can question the greatness of the '90s? Seriously, the decade birthed some of the most memorable moments in pop culture and technology, including Hit Clips, Game Boys, *NSYNC, and Saturday morning cartoons. We can go on for days. But how hard would it be to choose one thing that represents how bomb growing up in the '90s was? Well, Twitter users are taking a trip down memory lane with #BestPartOfThe90s to help hash it out and it is seriously taking us back. We've rounded up some of our favorite throwbacks, so read on to get slapped with some serious nostalgia.
Major Study Reveals Exercise Lowers Risk For 13 Types of Cancers
There are so many health benefits to exercising - from having more energy to getting better skin - and now a new study has confirmed that exercise can lower your risk for 13 types of cancer. While we know working out regularly can boost your immune system and reduce your chances of getting breast or colon cancer, this research shows that exercising may also reduce your chances of getting other types of cancers.
Scientists from the National Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, and several other institutions around the world came together to collect information for the study, which was published in JAMA Internal Medicine. The Cancer Institute researchers collected data from 12 large-scale studies, which totaled 1.44 million men and women involved.
From this giant pool, researchers looked at how often and how vigorously each individual exercised. They also noted if any of the participants had been diagnosed with cancer. When all this information was put into a statistical model, the results showed that people who reported exercising moderately had less risk for developing 13 types of cancers compared to sedentary people. These reduced health problems include less likelihood of tumors in the liver, kidney, stomach, bone marrow, and bladder.
Surprisingly, researchers also found that those who were very active had an increased risk of malignancies such as melanoma (because you're spending more time outdoors) and slow-growing prostate tumors.
Steven Moore, the investigator at the National Cancer Institute who led the study, said physical activity contributes to changes in hormone levels, digestion, and overall energy balance, all of which play a role in reducing the risks for getting cancer. Long lesson short: get moving, even if it's just a walk around the block.
Thinking of Skipping That Workout? This Should Get You Back on Track
We don't always feel like high-fiving our workouts - sometimes we want to punch them in the face! But we know that once that workout is finished, we'll feel so proud and amazing afterward. If you're having second thoughts about heading out for that run or fitness class, this should get you psyched.
How Marble and Granite Countertops Compare
Giving your kitchen or bathroom countertops a makeover is a big deal. Before you dish out major bucks for a high end stone treatment, we've gathered everything you need to know about granite and marble slabs, so you can make the best choice for your family. Check out all the essential facts below, and then get to building the kitchen of your dreams.
Appearance
- Marble comes mostly in lighter colors, while granite comes in a variety of colors, including red, orange, pink, blue, green, and red.
- Marble features large veining patterns, while granite has multicolored speckles and a variety of patterns.
- Marble is considered to have a more elegant appearance, but granite is still a high-end look.
Composition
- Marble is derived from a crystallized form of limestone, while granite comes from crystallized magma.
Durability
- Marble is highly susceptible to acid erosion (lemon juice, Champagne, etc.) when not properly sealed, while granite is less susceptible.
- Marble is softer; it is not scratch resistant and will scuff up easily.
- Granite is harder and can fend off most scratches and chips, even those from chopping directly on the countertop (although you'll quickly dull your knives if you do this).
- Putting hot pots and pants directly on a marble surface can cause discoloration, while (and we don't recommend doing this) it generally won't cause damage to a granite countertop, which is said to withstand over 450 degrees.
Maintenance
- Both are porous and therefore require sealing, but marble requires twice-yearly sealing while granite can be sealed biyearly.
- Stains on marble must be cleaned up ASAP, while on granite quickly cleaning up stains is still a priority but it's less urgent.
Pricing
- While there's a range of pricing for both stone types depending on the specific type of marble or granite, marble skews more expensive.
Value
- Both stones are considered high-end counter finishes, but marble is more unique and has a luxury cachet that granite lacks.
- Granite has become extremely prevalent in recent years and is more de rigueur in upscale homes than a special luxury.
2-Minute, 3-Move Wall Workout to Instantly Sculpt Arms and Abs
Even if your goal isn't to be able to do a handstand, your upper body and core can benefit greatly from practicing two exercises yogis often do to strengthen their muscles in order to hold this advanced pose. Do this quick two-minute workout, and your muscles will be burning - we promise!
The Workout: Hold the L-stand for 10 seconds. Hop down, turn around, and kick up into a Handstand Against the Wall for 10 seconds, then rest your arms and wrists by doing Wall Child's Pose for 10 seconds. Repeat this 30-second circuit three more times for a total of four times (two minutes). If this is too hard, hold the first two exercises for only five seconds. If you find workout too easy, hold the first two poses for 15 to 20 seconds each.
22 Strawberry Cocktails That Put All Other Drinks to Shame
Sure, fresh strawberries are pretty great on their own, but they're even better when there's alcohol involved. Break out of your usual happy-hour routine and serve up some of these seasonal cocktails this Summer, like strawberry margaritas and whiskey sours - it'll be the best thing you do with any leftover strawberries.
You and Your Cat Will Be Closer Than Ever With This Weird New Brush
We've definitely seen some unique products for our cats in our days. But this brush . . . is something else. The Licki Brush, which just launched on Kickstarter last night, has already raised over $6,000 toward production. This brush is designed to bring human and cat closer together, because cats use licking as a bonding method. According to the Kickstarter, "You'll develop a more intimate and bonded relationship, much like a mama cat bonds with her young." You just stick one end of the soft brush in your mouth and lick away. Because, ya know, there's totally nothing weird about licking your cat. (No really, there's not; we already ordered two.)
8 Ways to Watch TV Without Cable
Still paying for cable but looking for a way out? We've got a few ideas on how to keep up with your favorite shows without shelling out too much cash. Each service has different prices with a variety of shows to offer, so it's really about prioritizing how much you need to see your cable shows every week. Take a look ahead and don't be afraid to finally cut the cord!
- Hulu ($8-12 a month): Within Hulu, there are two tiers: a limited commercial plan and one without commercials. Whichever path you choose, you'll get to see your current TV shows the next day. You can also pay an additional $9 a month to add Showtime to your Hulu account, letting you watch shows like Homeland.
- Showtime Now ($11 a month after 30-day free trial): Download the app, and you can watch all your favorite shows and movies.
- Playstation Vue ($40-$65 a month): If you just enjoy loafing around watching all sorts of TV, Playstation Vue might be your best package. There are three different packages, each that offer a slew of cable TV shows. The basic tier called Access ($40, originally $50 a month) gets you a lot already. You'll get channels like CBS, NBC, MTV, Bravo, and AMC. The next tier, Core ($45 a month, originally $55), gets you the same package but with other channels like IFC, Sundance, and TNT. The Elite package ($55 a month, originally $65) will bring you Fox College Sports, Teen Nick, the Cooking Channel and more.
- Sling TV ($20 a month): With Sling TV, you can watch channels like CNN, HGTV, the Disney Channel, and ESPN at the set price of twenty dollars. For just an extra five dollars a month, you can add on extra packages like "Sports," which brings you ESPNU. Or, try the "Hollywood" extra plan and get TCM, Epix and others.
- CBS All Access ($6 a month): Like Hulu, you can watch any new episode from a CBS show the next day from when it airs. You also gain access to tons of episodes on demand so your binge-watching doesn't start or end with just Netflix.
- Netflix ($8-$12 a month): You can't chill without Netflix and you can't Netflix without chill. While the service doesn't show you the latest episodes of your favorite cable shows, it does offer plenty of original series that will satisfy your TV itch.
- HBO Now ($15 a month): Watch your premium cable network without paying the premium with HBO Now. You get to watch both TV shows and movies from the channel, which is really a win-win situation.
- Amazon Prime Video ($9 a month): Similar to Netflix, you won't get to see current episodes of TV shows but you will get to see award-winning original series like Transparent. The service is offered as a standalone option, or you can get it with a Amazon Prime subscription.
Now go buy yourself an Apple TV or Chromecast device and get started on your new life free of cable!
From a Size 22 to a Size 12: This Woman Changed Her Habits and Her Life
Meet Brooke, an empowered, strong, and inspiring woman from San Francisco, who is taking her health into her own hands and turning her entire life around with her conscious choices and habits. So far, Brooke has lost over 100 pounds.
Multiple factors have contributed to Brooke's awe-inspiring success - she does the Kayla Itsines BBG workouts and Pilates, goes hiking, and preps her meal. But what she most wanted to share about her journey - in which she went from a size 22 to a size 12 - is that "changing behavior through healthy habits and real food are imperative for sustainable weight loss.
A Lifelong Journey: From Obese to Healthy
Her journey started at an early age. When she lost her grandmother to cancer, she turned to food as a source of comfort . . . at the age of five. "One of my earliest memories is hiding under a table and eating at my grandmother's wake," said Brooke. "I don't ever remember a time in my life when I wasn't losing weight, gaining weight, or desperately trying to maintain my weight."
The lifelong battle had begun. She turned to food, then turned to diets. "I have done every diet out there, probably twice, each with varying degrees of success," said Brooke. Each time she'd stop the diet, she'd gain even more weight back.
Hitting a Low Point
She started trying more extreme methods, like fasting, juice cleanses, and purging - and her struggle only worsened as she battled bulimia and food addiction. "Those periods of control would inevitably be followed by periods of being out of control. I was trapped in the cycle of restricting and binge-eating."
It wasn't until she hit a breaking point that she realized she needed to change something fundamentally. At nearly 300 pounds, Brooke said, "I realized I was slowly killing myself. . . . I finally took a step back and realized how insane my behavior was." At that point, she turned to others for support and realized she wasn't the only one going through this struggle.
"I carried around a tremendous amount of shame about my weight," said Brooke. "It was liberating to let go of that and realize that I wasn't alone."
Alone she is not. Through this awakening and "peeling back the layers of shame," as she puts it, Brooke discovered the thriving BBG community on Instagram. Scrolling through hashtags like #BBG and #KaylasArmy, she wondered "who is this Kayla person and why does she have an army?"
Brooke's use of social media as a support system ended up being a pivotal move in her journey and opened her up to a program that would change her life. She progressed through the BBG programs with millions of women around the world and turned to the community for strength. "It's empowering to be vulnerable about our flaws, share our goals, and cheer each other on."
A Fitness Journey Begins
Brooke weighed nearly 300 pounds just four years ago. She had debilitating plantar fasciitis and said she could hardly walk a few blocks. Her first goal? Get a FitBit and go for 10,000 steps per day. "It was a way to start moving," she said.
This positive step (10,000 steps, actually) snowballed into greater choices. "It was more about becoming active rather than calories burned." And her consistency has been key. She committed to this goal every day for four years, and her four-year average is now 11,000!
When Brooke wanted to push herself further, she got into hiking. "I really started noticing the mental benefits of exercise and fell in love," said Brooke.
Her new love for movement was taken to another level with the BBG program, which has only intensified her overall love for fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Today, Brooke combines hiking, BBG, and Pilates.
Lifestyle Changes
In the past four years, Brooke has made huge fundamental behavioral changes. She knows from research that permanent lifestyle changes - not diets - are what works for sustainable weight loss and has since learned that extreme physical exertion and starvation aren't going to work.
Brooke's approach to food has completely 180-ed. Her golden formula? Mindful eating, meal prep, and greens at every meal.
"Being obese, the priority was changing my eating habits and beliefs about food," she said. "For so long I viewed food as a moral issue, like certain foods were 'good' or 'bad' and if I ate them I was 'good' or 'bad.' . . . But that's warped" (seriously). "Food is food and it can be used for fuel or pleasure, but it doesn't define my character."
This honesty helped her focus on the bigger picture and identify which foods triggered overeating - this led to mindful eating. She cut out the trigger foods, "not because they made me fat or I wanted to lose weight, but because I wanted to feel good."
And that's what the big picture is about: feeling your best and living your best life.
Brooke also shared some relatable advice: don't try to cook supercomplicated recipes based on a restrictive diet - you might crash and burn (like she did) and end up at a drive-through because you're so frustrated (and hungry)! Instead, turn to meal prep.
"Preparing meals at home is one of the most effective ways to manage weight, but it has to be easy and enjoyable or it won't happen consistently."
She also loves adding greens to every meal, because "it's universal and can be applied to any diet."
Looking Ahead
Brooke tells us that it's much easier to create a new positive habit than to break a negative habit. One positive choice (like adding in vegetables) can have a snowball or ripple effect, leading to healthier, better choices in other areas. It's helping her stay on a healthy track and meet new goals.
What are those goals? What does a goal look like for someone who has already lost so much weight? "More love and acceptance of my body." Her journey will never end, and she challenges herself to be a little bit better every single day.
Brooke's advice for someone just beginning their weight loss:
"Just start. Then don't stop. Everything else is just details. It's a lifelong journey and it won't be linear, but it will be worth it. Get brutally honest with yourself, and if you can, with another person. Question the excuses that are holding you back, and never, ever give up."
She noted that if you too are "in the thick of it," she would love to hear from you. You can reach out on her blog, or send her a comment on Instagram.
After Decades of Yo-Yo Dieting, Oprah Finally Cracked the Code to a Healthy Balance
One of my favorite GIFs of all time is one of Oprah in her Weight Watchers commercial with the caption "I love bread." Every time I look at it, I'm like "Same, girl. Same."
Oprah is just so real, and many of us can relate to her in so many ways - especially her approach to food and dieting. She has been open about her health journey; she's tried so many diets over the past few decades, none of which really clicked for her. But now, for the first time in her life, she found the balance she's been looking for.
Like many of us, Oprah loves food. And giving up foods you love - for an indefinite period of time - doesn't really feel like a sustainable lifestyle, let alone a happy one.
With the Weight Watchers Beyond the Scale program, she's lost 26 pounds in less than a year - but she doesn't follow the diet super strictly. Like we always say, balance, balance, balance.
"Yesterday, I knew I was going to be having General Tso's chicken for dinner," she told E! News. "So I did an extra 30 minutes of exercise and then I walked the dogs around a couple of more times."
She also noted that if she's going to have a couple spoonfuls of something indulgent, she doesn't beat herself up about it (YES, OPRAH!). "It's OK because tomorrow is another day. You don't have to feel like, 'Oh, I shouldn't have eaten that biscuit!'"
What we're trying to saying is, Oprah is all of us. Eat that General Tso's chicken! Walk those dogs! Offset your indulgences with added exercise - you don't have to cut out your favorite treats or meals to live a healthy life.
And if you're struggling with a diet, don't worry. Oprah said "I had to get to be 62 to figure it out." Bless her.
Before You Buy Honey, Read This
When it comes to natural remedies that actually work, antioxidant-rich honey tops the list. But while regular, clover-sourced honey has its own health-related properties, such as helping with allergies and nagging coughs, manuka honey may just be a most magical elixir for fighting those ailments and so much more. Manuka honey is produced by bees that feed on the tea tree nectar (a plant with its own impressive list of healthy qualities) in New Zealand and Australia, and it has long been the best-kept secret in natural households everywhere. Here's why.
- It's incredibly antibacterial: All types of honey contain hydrogen peroxide, a powerful disinfectant, but manuka honey contains even more bacteria-fighting punch. That's because it contains high concentrations of a compound called methylglyoxal, which is the reason studies have shown manuka honey's disinfecting activity against gnarly bugs like E. coli and E. faecalis as well some strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Many people even swear by using manuka honey to treat acne, although no studies have been conducted to put this claim to the test.
- It may help you heal faster: Some studies have found that wounds dressed with manuka honey heal faster than traditional dressings. The most benefit was seen in mild burn wounds; other wounds such as diabetes-related ulcers did not show the same benefit.
- It may become a smart alternative to antibiotics: The properties in manuka honey haven't been shown to develop resistant bacteria, a worrisome problem caused by the overuse of antibiotics that leads to the development of "superbugs" that can't be treated with traditional treatment options. If manuka proves to be as effective as many small studies have found, it could be a powerful disease-fighting option.
If the news about manuka honey's healing powers have you running for the aisles, be sure to look for high-quality, reputable brands, since many manuka honey products may not have the potency you need for them to be effective - or may not be authentic manuka honey at all. The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) Honey Association has a rating system to help ensure that consumers know what they're buying; according to the association, you should look for any product with a certified UMF rating of 10 or over, since those will have the highest concentrations of methylglyoxal.
Rather eat your honey than slather it on? This recipe for an immunity-boosting ginger tonic harnesses the power of manuka honey as a superfood.
Lavish Guests With Wedding Favors That Won't Cost You Tons of Cash
Your wedding guests will travel great distances and bestow you with lavish gifts, so a wedding favor is a great way to show your gratitude on the day of your nuptials. The best favors are representative of the newlyweds' personalities, but you can quickly find your wedding budget dwindling like a bowl of jordan almonds thanks to expensive favor options. Before you abandon the idea altogether, follow our tips for savvy wedding favor savings.
- Shop online marketplaces. Search for items on sites like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon, and compare those prices with local vendors to find the best deals.
- Buy in bulk. Look for bulk or wholesale deals, which will trim your per-favor cost. Candy, soaps, and packaging are excellent candidates to find at low prices in large quantities.
- Search beyond wedding vendors. Wedding sites may have items tailored to favor-giving, but they sometimes come with a markup. Browse sites and stores that specialize in the item you're looking for, and try to think outside the box when it comes to potential deals. For example, search framing wholesalers for deep discounts on picture frames or chocolatiers for high-quality truffles or chocolate bars. Hopefully, you'll have money left over to pay for engraving or custom packaging!
- Look for items that are being discontinued. Stores will offer deep discounts on items that are being discontinued. Just make sure they still have enough to cover all your guests!
- Factor in shipping and tax. If you're buying online, then total up the shipping cost before you click the purchase button. Even though you may be getting a steep discount on the merchandise itself, the shipping costs could make your order more expensive than buying it locally. On the other hand, some online vendors don't charge sales tax, a perk that will bring down the overall price.
- Make your own. If you or a willing friend or family member is crafty, then you could save a bundle by making and assembling your favors. A simple and cost-effective solution is burning a couple's wedding playlist onto CDs and printing out personalized covers or labels. Making your own favors will certainly take more time than buying pre-assembled gifts, so make sure that the cost savings outweigh the amount of work you will need to put into them!
- Multitask with other wedding items. Consider repurposing other facets of your wedding day as favors. A grouping of bud vases with tiny flowers makes for an interesting centerpiece, and guests can take one home at the end of the night. Or serve slices of wedding cake in pretty cardboard boxes with a message of thanks attached to each.
- Donate to charity. Instead of tangible gifts, leave a note or certificate at each place setting, letting your guests know that you've made a donation to your favorite charity in their name. If your favor budget precludes you from buying suitable wedding favors, you can use it to make a difference and share the warm feelings with your guests as well.
- Create a DIY candy buffet. Let your guests assemble their own favors and get a sweet treat while they're at it. Bulk candy is often less expensive than personalized gifts, and you can still make it special by buying candy in your wedding colors or offering your and your partner's favorite varieties.
- Provide printables. Print out your favorite recipe, poem, or quote on pretty cards along with a message of thanks and leave one at each place setting. Or print thank-you cards and hand-write a personalized note to each guest.
- Consider what your guests will use. The best favors are not only personalized, but also useful. Edible gifts tend to be popular, but think about other items that represent your and your partner's interests and could be useful to a guest. All that money you saved on favors won't make a difference if they are all left behind on the table!
Becky G Looks Exactly Like Frida Kahlo in These Recently Released Pictures
Becky G recently took to Instagram to release four photos from an album cover shoot that went unused, and it's a good thing she did, because they are total must-sees. Snapped by photographer Emilio Sanchez, the photos are brilliantly Frida Kahlo-inspired, with Becky re-creating some of her most iconic paintings - with a little added flair, of course.
"My culture has always influenced me as an artist in everything that I do," the "Break a Sweat" singer captioned one of the photos. "Collaborating with @emiliosanchez on this photoshoot was so fun and meaningful." Read on to see more pictures, courtesy of Emilio, and then get to know a little more about Becky's upcoming Power Rangers role.
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