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 13 août 2016
10 Things Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner Have Said About Each Other Since Their Split
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner announced their plans to divorce back in July 2015, but since then, they've set quite an impressive example of maintaining an amicable relationship for the sake of their three children, Violet, Seraphina, and Samuel. They've been spotted on multiple outings together - both with and without the kids - and have made some insightful, candid, and glowing statements about each other in the press; on one such occasion, Ben may have given fans hope that the couple could rekindle their relationship, telling CBS This Morning, "We don't know what the future's going to hold."
We've rounded up all the sweet, significant quotes that Ben and Jen have given about each other since their split.
The Best Photos of Selena Gomez on the Revival Tour
Selena Gomez still has a little while to go until the end of her sexiest year yet and her Revival tour, but if you didn't get to see her live and have now realized all the dates left are outside the US, don't be down. From the kickoff concert in Las Vegas in May 2016, photographers have been snapping away at Selena's biggest and baddest moments on stage, and now we've rounded them all up for your viewing pleasure.
By scrolling ahead you'll find Selena's best and sexiest outfits, many hair changes, candid shots midperformance, and sultry moments where she's enveloped in smoke and flanked by fit dancers. Enjoy!
Finally Use Up the Last of Your Lip Gloss With This Easy Trick
Regardless of how much you spend on makeup, you want to be sure to get your money's worth out of every single product. But all beauty junkies know that some items are more difficult to finish up than others. Lip gloss is especially frustrating: unless it's in a squeeze tube, it seems nearly impossible to get the last few drops out of the packaging.
About eight years ago, Michelle Phan shared this simple but genius hack that makes using up the remainder of your gloss supersimple. Here's what you need:
- Mug full of hot (but not boiling) water
- Knife
- Small container, like a contact lens case
Place your mostly-empty lip gloss tubes standing upright in the mug of hot water. (They should be sealed tightly so the H2O doesn't contaminate the products.) After 10 minutes, the gloss on the sides of the tubes should have settled to the bottom. Now remove the gloss from the package. To do this, use your knife to pop out the stopper, which prevents the liquid from seeping out of the tube. Then pour the remaining gloss into your small container.
Yes, it's really that easy! This technique is a blessing for beauty babes on a budget, but it's also great for limited-edition product-lovers, too: you'll finally be able to use the last of that precious discontinued formula. Watch how Michelle does it above.
Buns in the Oven: 23 Stars Who Are Expecting Babies This Year
This year is off to a great start for the crop of celebrity couples who are adding to their families. Some stars, like Kerry Washington and Blake Lively are gearing up to welcome their second or third child, while a whole handful of others - including Behati Prinsloo and Bar Refaeli - are sporting baby bumps for the very first time. Keep reading for all the stars who are expecting babies this year, then see all the celebs who became parents for the first time recently.
Crush Your Weight-Loss Goals With These 4 Drinks
Apple cider vinegar has become a mainstay in many a pantry, and if you haven't added it to your permanent kitchen rotation yet, it's time to start. With weight-loss and immunity-boosting powers, ACV has been known to detox, burn fat, and lower blood sugar levels. If you're new to ACV, the sharp taste and fragrance might throw you off initially, but try it in one of these four delicious recipes to start reaping the weight-loss and health benefits.
Crush Your Weight-Loss Goals With These 4 Drinks
Apple cider vinegar has become a mainstay in many a pantry, and if you haven't added it to your permanent kitchen rotation yet, it's time to start. With weight-loss and immunity-boosting powers, ACV has been known to detox, burn fat, and lower blood sugar levels. If you're new to ACV, the sharp taste and fragrance might throw you off initially, but try it in one of these four delicious recipes to start reaping the weight-loss and health benefits.
If You've Ever Identified With a Snapchat Filter, This Video Will Crack You Up
Although Snapchat filters can be problematic, you can't deny that they're fun and sometimes really flattering. Some people are seriously obsessed with the app and probably wish the filters were actually wearable in real life, like the flower crown. We all know these people and have seen them in our Stories feed - the ones who identify with the puppy filter and include it in every snap.
If that's you (no judgment), then you'll relate to this hilarious video by the Vine famous J. Cyrus captioned, "When the new Snapchat filter takes over your girl's life." He makes fun of girls who can't get enough of the glowing butterfly crown and can't seem to identify themselves in the real world without it.
Check out the video to see why it has over one million views and 9,400 reactions!
10 Things I Never Wished For Before Kids but Want Now
It's one of those meaningless truisms of the before: people tell you, with a sigh or a smile, that life changes once you have kids. Sure, you think. Whatever. You're tired of the advice before you even give birth. And then kids happen, and you're so busy you can't even see the change, aside from all the new fluids and messes. I certainly didn't.
But after five years of raising children, I routinely use the phrase kid-friendly. I never used to care about a restaurant's ability to serve children, and now I tell people which ones are "so kid-friendly." It's the same with stores and other public places; I tend to separate them into which places are good to go with kids and which are not. It matters to me that our neighbors are friendly, protective, and present and that there are children living on the streets around us. Before kids, I never really understood just how much time I would spend at zoos or other children's birthday parties. Or how something like naps could make your day or ruin it. And these days, I grasp the dreamy promise of appliances, those machines in your house that supposedly make the work there easy. Here's to the boring, mundane things you never thought were special before kids:
- A large washer and dryer in your house. Because everything is dirty all the time. And when kids are sick, a washer is your only hope for sanity. That stuffed bunny your kid just vomited on? Throw it in the washer.
- A fenced-in yard. Being able to let your kid roam knowing they can't leave the property is worth a lot. Until they figure out the gate latch.
- Tinted windows on a car. Ditch those annoying suction shades.
- A high-rider. Having a car with some height so you don't have to bend down to get kids into car seats. Self-opening doors are a total bonus. A remote start for those who park outside in winter: heaven.
- Night-lights. Little bedtime miracles that work. Most of the time, anyway.
- A faucet fountain. Replace your faucet aerator with a bubbler and get rid of the bathroom cup no one ever washes. Also, your kid can get a drink, like, whenever.
- A dishwasher. Shorter dinner cleanup, no washing baby bottles by hand.
- A stroller you can push with one hand. How else will you drink your coffee?
- A bathtub. Hands down the best place to entertain kids at the end of a long day . . . keeping your hands free for a drink.
- Slip-on shoes and boots. For your own feet. Because putting on shoes while holding kids is hard.
What makes your list?
37 Famous Couples Who Announced Their Engagement on Instagram
You've already seen the most memorable celebrity engagement reveals, and with Instagram being one of celebrities' favorite social media platforms, we're now taking a look at all the stars who announced their new relationship status on the app. From Eva Longoria's surprising reveal to Kim Kardashian's over-the-top engagement, we're reliving the best announcements - keep reading to see them, and then find out which stars made it down the aisle.
15 Reasons It Should Be Illegal For Michael Phelps to Wear a Shirt
When the Summer Olympics roll around every four years, people huddle around their TV screens and scan Twitter to keep up with who's taken home gold and which country is in the lead, and to drool over the finest physical specimens currently walking around this earth. Of all the hot Olympians out there, there's just something about Michael Phelps (his abs, it's his abs) that never fails to leave us a little weak. Since killing it at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004, the swimmer has racked up more and more accolades, welcomed one seriously cute son, and steadily kept us swooning (again: look at his abs). In honor of his current success in Rio, let's all take a look at the 15 biggest reasons we should all be saying a silent prayer of thanks that he went into a sport that requires him to wear barely any clothing.
Katy Perry Resurfaces in LA After Her Romantic Italian Vacation With Orlando Bloom
Following her romantic Italian vacation with boyfriend Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry was seen out and about in LA on Saturday afternoon. The "Rise" singer kept a low profile in a baseball hat and sunglasses complete with a black and white Adidas tracksuit. Katy and Orlando's getaway did have its share of scandals though, as pictures surfaced of a naked Orlando paddleboarding with Katy. Not long after, Katy grabbed headlines when she posted a photo of herself flashing her underwear during a bike ride in France, writing, "I know it's a little cheeky, butt... Cycling in The ile de re, France." See more of Katy in various states of undress.
These Stranger Things Cupcakes Are Made With - You Guessed It - Eggo Waffles
Whether you have already powered your way through Stranger Things or are just now giving in to the (well-deserved) hype surrounding the show, there's no Netflix binge that a good cupcake can't improve. That's why one Redditor created individual cupcakes inspired by the show's most beloved characters, complete with edible props representing iconic moments from the show.
The Imgur gallery of these cupcake creations details each flavor, which include:
- Eleven-inspired cupcakes with her favorite snack: mini Eggo waffles (and maple syrup buttercream).
- Hopper-inspired chocolate coffee cupcakes topped with beer-glazed, caramel versions of the sheriff's signature cigarettes and donuts.
- Joyce-inspired Christmas light cupcakes with holiday-appropriate cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.
- Barb-inspired cakes with strawberry filling and buttercream, topped with her iconic eyeglasses . . . yep, they're morbid as hell, and probably delicious.
- Dustin-inspired cupcakes filled with his cafeteria favorite, chocolate pudding, and topped with Nilla wafers and Nutty Bars.
The Redditor eventually plans to create cupcakes inspired by each character and has a perfect method for getting inspired: listening to an '80s classic, Toto's song "Africa," which makes an appearance in the show as well.
Now, which of these tasty creations do you want to devour during your next Stranger Things marathon? We have an idea about our pick . . .
Image Source: Giphy
These Are the 9 Car Seat Enhancements Worth Knowing About
Making a concrete decision on the color of your car seat is tough enough - let alone deciding on the actual make and model. With what feels like endless brands and very similar features, it's hard to know what new improvements you should be looking for when taking a stroll down the car seat aisle. From the ability to fully recline your newborn to SmartScreen technology that aids in installation, these are the nine car seat enhancements you're going to want to be aware of before making that big purchase for your little one.
All of Shay Mitchell's Sexiest Swimsuits Have One Thing in Common
It's no secret that Shay Mitchell is fond of traveling. The Pretty Little Liars star is constantly uploading photos of her envy-inducing vacations and dishing on her adventures in her YouTube series, Shaycation, which has over one million subscribers.
So when it comes to gearing up for a fun Summer getaway, she makes sure to pack her go-to - and very sexy! - swimsuit style, which may not come as a total surprise after scrolling through her feed. "I'm a huge fan of one-pieces . . . I love them," she told us. "I love bright colors, and there are so many amazing options to choose from as far as swim is concerned."
Keep scrolling to look back at some of her best swimwear moments, then shop the looks.
- Additional reporting by Samantha Sutton
A New iPhone 7 Plus Leak Confirms the Worst Rumor Yet
Uh-oh, the latest iPhone 7 leak confirms everyone's worst nightmare. A new video from Unbox Therapy shows off the iPhone 7 Plus without a headphone jack.
In the video by Lewis Hilsenteger of Unbox Therapy, he shows off an iPhone 7 Plus mock-up. The prototype is courtesy of a company called BESOUND, a company running an Indiegogo campaign for noise-canceling headphones. The mock-up shows off a blue iPhone 7 Plus, an on and off again rumor that might end up being true. It also reveals a dual camera lens, a set of connection points that might serve for wireless charging or something else, and no headphone jack. The removal of the headphone jack is a rumor that's pretty certain at this point, so either don't upgrade or start thinking of all the new accessories you might have to buy to deal with the change.
Watch the video above to see the iPhone 7 Plus for yourself. We'll see the real deal come September.
Let These Photos of Stars in Their One-Pieces Inspire Your Next Swimsuit Purchase
Bikinis are hot, but there's something about a one-piece that is just so sexy and elegant. With Summer in full swing, we've gotten plenty of peeks at stars wearing their swimsuits at the beach, by the pool, and at home. Read on to see the hottest pictures of celebrities in their bathing suits, and if you just can't enough, check out our ultimate bikini gallery.
This Is Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Don't Take a Rest Day
If you're someone who has a hard time giving yourself a break, and you've been skipping rest days, then listen up: while we admire your dedication, skipping your recovery is doing you more harm than you think.
We wanted to find out exactly what happens to your body when you train too hard, so we talked to Michelle Opperman, director of group fitness for Crunch, and Jan Milano, CSCS and sports performance coach at DIAKADI. Did you know the effects can be so severe physiologically and psychologically that there's a name for it? It's called "Overtraining Syndrome."
Want to know what Overtraining Syndrome looks like? Here's what happens to your body when you don't take time to recover from intense exercise (or endurance events!):
- Glycogen stores are depleted. Opperman and Milano both noted that your glycogen decreases. Glycogen is your body's energy source, and not something you want to eliminate. Milano says "decreased glycogen may contribute to the lowered lactate responses," meaning your muscles fatigue more quickly.
- Corticosteroids increase. We know that cortisone and cortisol (stress hormones) are not good for weight loss, and even add to belly-fat retention. Milano told us that these elevated levels also depress the immune system by inhibiting the reaction of lymphocytes to antigens (basically, the fighter cells can't fight the bad invader cells). So overtraining equals a higher likelihood of getting sick.
- Your heart goes into overdrive. "Both resting heart rate and submaximal exercise heart rate are increased," said Milano. Be nice to your heart. Take a breather.
- Your performance suffers. Opperman told us that when sufficient rest is not included in a training program, your ability to perform (i.e., continue training, growing muscle, getting stronger) plateaus or declines, because your muscles literally cannot recover and regenerate. So things just get worse and worse.
- You'll lose muscle mass. Consistent breakdown + no recovery = bye, muscles. That's the opposite of what you're trying to do, right?
- You'll feel AWFUL. The tiny tears in your muscles cannot heal, which results in inflammation, swelling, and tenderness. Opperman says the feeling will "become extreme, lasting for days." She also noted that you'll feel physically exhausted for an extended period as well, which could make it hard for you to perform your day to day functions.
- It messes with your mind. Muscular fatigue is not the only thing Opperman and Milano warned about. The fatigue and distress extend psychologically, and Milano noted that you'll notice mental changes before physical ones. "Decreased vigor, motivation, and confidence; raised tension, depression, and anger accompany an individual's recovery," said Milano.
Do yourself a favor. Go to yoga, don't skip savasana, do your cooldowns, and take a day off to recover. Need some pointers? Make sure you keep our recovery checklist handy, or try any of these recovery essentials.
15 Examples of the Arthur Fist Meme That Will Have You Laughing With Tears
Most of us grew up watching Arthur, D.W., and the rest of his friends teach us how to be kind and responsible. Little did any of us know that this television show would come back in one of the best memes this year - the Arthur fist meme.
The meme is simple: take a screenshot of Arthur's clenched fist and apply any text you want with it. The fist comes from an Arthur episode where Arthur punches D.W. for breaking his toy airplane. Yes, this episode actually did happen, and though it's pretty dark, it's graced the world with Arthur's clenched fist. Twitter user AlmostJT first tweeted the image out on July 27, and since then, Arthur's become the poster child for feeling emo and upset at the world.
It's not the first time stills from Arthur have circled the internet in meme-form, but the network that runs the show is pretty upset about it. "We appreciate the memes that have been created and shared in good fun," said a spokesperson for WGBH in Boston to Entertainment Weekly. "We are, however, disappointed by the few that are outside of good taste."
Ahead, check out examples of what the meme is, and don't feel too bad if you start using it. Arthur would've grown up to be just as emo and jaded as we all are.
Karen Rodriguez's Spanglish Cover of Drake's "One Dance" Is the One We've Been Waiting For
With viral bilingual covers of Adele's "Hello" and Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself" under her belt, YouTube singer and American Idol alum Karen Rodriguez continues to outdo herself.
The 27-year-old recently uploaded yet another musical clip, which is sure to follow in the popular footsteps of her previous mashups: a Spanglish rendition of Drake's "One Dance," featuring original Spanish lyrics and a unique, slowed-down vibe. Joined simply by her piano man, Cesar Moreno, Karen's chill-inducing performance of the radio hit, dubbed "Un Baile," is a must watch. Press play above to see exactly why, and then watch another YouTuber's remix of Drake.
Exclusive: Get a Sneak Peek at the Beautyblender x Benefit Cosmetics Set
We were excited when we learned of the upcoming collaboration between Too Faced and Beautyblender, but we nearly fell out of our chairs when we learned that Beautyblender has even more in store! Representatives of the company producing that iconic egg-shaped sponge confirmed that the brand is also be teaming up with cult favorite Benefit Cosmetics for a holiday gift set.
Beautyblender has now exclusively revealed the Benefit kit to POPSUGAR. The trio of products consists of a classic hot pink sponge, a limited-edition Blotterazzi and compact (featuring pin-up inspired illustrations), and a mini-size tube of Benefit's Porefessional Primer. The set will cost $40, a great value considering that the Beautyblender sponge alone costs $20.
Now that you have all the details, stay tuned for the launch. You'll have to wait until Fall to get your hands on this collaboration at Sephora. That gives you plenty of time to save up: you'll want to stock up on this and the Too Faced set for holiday gifts.
This Is Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Don't Take a Rest Day
If you're someone who has a hard time giving yourself a break, and you've been skipping rest days, then listen up: while we admire your dedication, skipping your recovery is doing you more harm than you think.
We wanted to find out exactly what happens to your body when you train too hard, so we talked to Michelle Opperman, director of group fitness for Crunch, and Jan Milano, CSCS and sports performance coach at DIAKADI. Did you know the effects can be so severe physiologically and psychologically that there's a name for it? It's called "Overtraining Syndrome."
Want to know what Overtraining Syndrome looks like? Here's what happens to your body when you don't take time to recover from intense exercise (or endurance events!):
- Glycogen stores are depleted. Opperman and Milano both noted that your glycogen decreases. Glycogen is your body's energy source, and not something you want to eliminate. Milano says "decreased glycogen may contribute to the lowered lactate responses," meaning your muscles fatigue more quickly.
- Corticosteroids increase. We know that cortisone and cortisol (stress hormones) are not good for weight loss, and even add to belly-fat retention. Milano told us that these elevated levels also depress the immune system by inhibiting the reaction of lymphocytes to antigens (basically, the fighter cells can't fight the bad invader cells). So overtraining equals a higher likelihood of getting sick.
- Your heart goes into overdrive. "Both resting heart rate and submaximal exercise heart rate are increased," said Milano. Be nice to your heart. Take a breather.
- Your performance suffers. Opperman told us that when sufficient rest is not included in a training program, your ability to perform (i.e., continue training, growing muscle, getting stronger) plateaus or declines, because your muscles literally cannot recover and regenerate. So things just get worse and worse.
- You'll lose muscle mass. Consistent breakdown + no recovery = bye, muscles. That's the opposite of what you're trying to do, right?
- You'll feel AWFUL. The tiny tears in your muscles cannot heal, which results in inflammation, swelling, and tenderness. Opperman says the feeling will "become extreme, lasting for days." She also noted that you'll feel physically exhausted for an extended period as well, which could make it hard for you to perform your day to day functions.
- It messes with your mind. Muscular fatigue is not the only thing Opperman and Milano warned about. The fatigue and distress extend psychologically, and Milano noted that you'll notice mental changes before physical ones. "Decreased vigor, motivation, and confidence; raised tension, depression, and anger accompany an individual's recovery," said Milano.
Do yourself a favor. Go to yoga, don't skip savasana, do your cooldowns, and take a day off to recover. Need some pointers? Make sure you keep our recovery checklist handy, or try any of these recovery essentials.
Your Comprehensive Guide to Jason Momoa's Many Tattoos
Between his bulging biceps and plentiful faux-tattoos in the Justice League trailer, you may have overlooked actor Jason Momoa's real ink . . . but he's no stranger to body art. From sentimental (and permanent) family mementos to fierce tribal crests, Jason has quite the collection of tattoos, and we've rounded up all of the visible ones for your enjoyment. Can't get enough of his ink? Don't worry, you can enjoy them every time he posts a shirtless photo on social media, which - thank the gods - happens often.
Snuggle Up to the 26 Coziest Fall Pasta Recipes
The only thing cozier than a big bowl of pasta is a big bowl of Fall pasta. Something about the combination of carbs and butternut squash, sage, brussels sprouts, and more autumnal ingredients makes you want to curl up on the couch and indulge in a helping (or two) of comfort food. From butternut squash carbonara to creamy stovetop pumpkin macaroni and cheese, these are the Fall pasta recipes you'll turn to all season long.
The Unexpected Accessory It Models Have Been Wearing With Both Dresses and Gym Gear
Models don't always dress like dads, but when they do, they're likely wearing a baseball cap. The classic and typically father-approved accessory has been on the rise among the It crowd, with ladies like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid pairing solid and graphic options with everything from casual-cool weekend looks to gym gear. They've even styled 'em with sexy sheer mini dresses! Take a look at how models are embracing this cute - but completely unexpected - hat trend ahead. Then shop a little something to pair with your own outfits.
This Brazilian Model Wore a Naked Dress to Her Wedding - and Totally Pulled It Off
"Naked dress" and "wedding dress" have been two distinctly different categories of clothing, until Brazilian model Isabeli Fontana brought them together in one dream-worthy beach wedding. The seemingly disparate looks were wedded (pun intended!) perfectly in her seaside nuptials in the Maldives, where Isabeli looked like a mermaid princess in the beautiful white sheer dress by Brazilian label Agua de Coco and a coordinating white bikini as she wed Diego Ferrero. There was no need for over-the-top jewelry, thanks to the shimmering beadwork on the dress, delicate earrings, and the white flowers placed in Isabeli's hair. In fact, there was no need for shoes either. Both the bride and groom ditched theirs to walk in the sand.
That's precisely why the allover sheer gown looks so perfect in this setting. The bride looks effortlessly glamorous, as if she's really just getting married in a swimsuit and cover-up. With the person you love, what more do you need? Read on to see the stunning look in full.
A Dolphin Grabbed a Woman's iPad Out of Her Hands Because YOLO
Sometimes in life, you just can't win 'em all. That's what one woman learned when a dolphin snatched an iPad out of her hands and most likely ruined her day in a Facebook video that's going viral.
The video, posted by Kuadiel Gomez on Aug. 7, shows a dolphin at SeaWorld in Orlando, FL, jumping and grabbing an iPad out of the woman's hand. Luckily, the iPad is only in the water for a few seconds before she gets to grab it out of there. The video shows how playful the dolphins are as they splash water onto the crowd and have some fun. Despite the poor loss of the iPad, people are loving this video, considering it has more than 94,000 views, 48 reactions, and 1117 shares. Watch it for yourself below.
Yesterday at SeaWorld Orlando I caught some footage you never see! A Dolphin lunged out and stole a ladies Ipad right out of her hand and then his other dolphin friends started splashing and soaking the entire crowd of people! A couple dolphins came towards me lunging up like they were going to try and take my camera too! This is hilarious and was crazy to see. Share and let everyone see this lol
YouTube: DeklynKaiPosted by Kuadiel Gomez on Monday, August 8, 2016
Hopefully she managed to dry out her iPad and get it working again. At the very least, she made a new dolphin friend and learned the hard lesson of not taking pictures with an iPad.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Cook With Pumpkin
It's only August, but we've got our sights set on Fall already. In case you missed it, pumpkin spice products have already hit shelves, which means we're doing our best to forget about the hot weather and embrace all things pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon. To get even more in the mood, we've curated a list of some of the best pumpkin-y recipes out there, both savory and sweet, using both fresh and canned pumpkin. If you've been hesitant to cook with the squash-like vegetable in the past, these recipes will convince you that it's not as complicated as it sounds, and the results are unlike anything you've eaten before. Here's how Giada De Laurentiis, Ina Garten, and more of our favorite celebrity chefs prepare their pumpkin.
Alton Brown: Pumpkin Soup - in a Whole Pumpkin
Leave it to Alton Brown to come up with a completely out-of-the-box pumpkin recipe that also manages to look delicious. His whole pumpkin pie soup takes one-pot cooking to a whole new level by cooking everything inside the pumpkin! If you have time on your hands (the recipe takes a little over two hours), you'll be rewarded with quite possibly the coziest, creamiest, most Fall-like pumpkin soup ever. It's full of garlic, apples, cream, goat cheese, and thyme, meaning your kitchen will smell amazing.
Giada De Laurentiis: Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Risotto
Pumpkin and Italian food are a match made in heaven - at least according to Giada De Laurentiis. Her pumpkin and goat cheese risotto is Fall comfort food at its finest. The rich pumpkin risotto gets a salty, crunchy kick from chopped bacon, and a combination of parmesan cheese and goat cheese ensures it's extra-decadent and hearty.
Ina Garten: Pumpkin Roulade With Ginger Buttercream
Ina's pumpkin roulade with ginger and buttercream is like the ultimate gingerbread and cheesecake hybrid. As the name "roulade" implies, it's a roll of pumpkin cake filled with sweet ginger mascarpone icing. Sliced up into individual pieces, it makes for the perfect dessert for a Fall dinner party and can be served well into the holidays.
Mario Batali: Pumpkin Lune With Butter and Sage
"Lune," short for Mezzelune, is a stuffed pasta similar to ravioli. If you're ever going to attempt a homemade version, it should be Mario Batali's pumpkin lune with butter and sage. While the whole meal requires a little patience and dedication to make pasta dough from scratch, the end result is entirely worth it. The pockets of cheesy pasta practically melt in your mouth, and letting the fresh sage leaves cook in butter creates an aroma and flavor that can't be beat.
Gordon Ramsay: Pumpkin and Mushroom Soup
For his pumpkin and mushroom soup, Gordon Ramsay roasts a whole pumpkin in the oven so that it becomes tender enough to blend with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. From there, Gordon flavors the base of the soup with onion, nutmeg, parmesan, chicken stock, and cream before adding the homemade pumpkin puree and marrying all of the rich flavors. What makes his pumpkin soup stand out is the garnish of pan-fried mushrooms, which have an earthy flavor that complements the nuttiness of the pumpkin.
Ree Drummond: Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake
If you're a cheesecake and pumpkin-spice fanatic, Ree Drummond's pumpkin gingersnap cheesecake is all you. The Pioneer Woman cuts no corners in this from-scratch recipe, which even calls for a homemade salted caramel sauce to pour on top. She gives the cheesecake's crust a Fall spin by pulsing gingersnaps in a food processor, and the cream cheese filling tastes like autumn thanks to cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree.
Guy Fieri: Chicken and Green Chile Pumpkin Bean Stew
If you know Guy Fieri well, you know he loves his chiles. It's no surprise that his pumpkin meal of choice is chicken and green chile pumpkin bean stew, a hearty one-pot meal that will fill you up on a cold night. Pumpkin puree is an excellent addition to chili and stew, and Guy bulks his up even more by adding pantry staples like black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and roasted tomatoes. He takes the stew to the next level by making an easy homemade green chile sauce that complements the rich pumpkin flavor perfectly.
Kim Kardashian Tested These 11 Fall Trends - and They're All Here to Stay
Kim Kardashian's signature style might not be your first source of inspiration. Perhaps her lace-up boots are a little too high or her neckline's too low. But even if you don't love to embrace all things sexy like Kim, she's definitely onto Fall's new trends.
With Kanye West's influence, Kim's looking to the runways to refresh her wardrobe. The past few months, she's been trying fresh combinations that have staying power and avant-garde accessories that promise to become It items this season. Read on to see the pieces she's already rocking, then get a head start and shop them for yourself. Outfits like these are about to be everywhere.
10 Protein-Packed Lunches to Increase Your Calorie Burn
What's the key to fast weight loss? Strong muscles and a healthy diet that feeds them. Kick up your metabolism with these 10 high-protein lunches, each with at least 15 grams of protein per serving, that keep calories low while helping you build a strong body.
10 Protein-Packed Lunches to Increase Your Calorie Burn
What's the key to fast weight loss? Strong muscles and a healthy diet that feeds them. Kick up your metabolism with these 10 high-protein lunches, each with at least 15 grams of protein per serving, that keep calories low while helping you build a strong body.
16 Athletes You Need to Follow on Snapchat to Keep the Summer Olympics FOMO at Bay
The 2016 Summer Olympics are well underway, and while many of us aren't in Rio de Janiero, Brazil, to watch Michael Phelps win gold or listen to Leslie Jones's hilarious commentary in person, there's still hope! A handful of Olympic athletes, including the ever-handsome Ryan Lochte and history-making Gabby Douglas, have been taking to Snapchat to share behind-the-scenes footage from the Rio Games. So, to keep your Summer Olympics FOMO at bay, we've rounded up all the athletes you need to follow on Snapchat now.
20 Crisp Names That'll Perfectly Suit Your Fall Baby
There's something great about all the freshness unveiled with each seasonal change. From different weather to morphing colors and exciting holidays, welcoming a new time of year is almost as exciting as welcoming a newborn - almost. As we bid farewell to Summer's sizzle and daydream about the crisp Fall air, there's one thing any expectant parent should have on her mind that goes way beyond pumpkin spice lattes: a name for her baby.
If you're currently brainstorming the perfect match for your unborn bundle of joy, why not pay homage to his or her birth season with a Fall-inspired name in Spanish? Read on for 20 beautiful ideas, and then scroll through even more unique inspiration.
Boys
- Adán
- Bruno
- Carmelo
- Clavos
- Cuervo
- Florencio
- León
- Octavio
- Otoño
- Silvestre
Girls
- Alba
- Aurora
- Avellana
- Dulce
- Estrella
- Flor
- Hortencia
- Lluvia
- Luna
- Yasmina
You Won't Believe It's Been 20 Years Since These TV Shows Premiered
As we're gearing up for Fall TV, we couldn't help but think about how many new series are reboots of old shows or movies. It got us thinking about the days of yore (aka the '90s), when all the pilots felt fresh. I mean, come on, you don't get more original than Joseph Gordon-Levitt in a series about aliens posing as a family. Family-centric shows like Dawson's Creek were a sign of the times! Before this year's crop of new shows hits primetime, take a look back and remember the shows that were hits two decades ago, all the way back in 1996.
If Your Kid Is the Pickiest Eater in the World, These 5 Tips Are For You
Ah, the picky eater phase - fun, right? Yeah, that's what we thought.
Fighting the war on picky tots is a daily battle for most moms, and honestly, it's totally normal. Toddlers are hardwired to be suspicious of new foods - that's just evolution doing its thing - but it can get extremely frustrating to consistently put new foods in front of your kiddo just to have them spit it back out at you or refuse to touch it.
We sat down with Dr. Alan Greene, pediatric advisor over at Plum Organics, who blew our minds with 5 tips for parents of picky eaters - and we think he's onto something . . .
6 Things to Never Ever Post on Social Media
Privacy's a rarity these days, and your beloved social media sites are largely to blame for that. But there are things you are doing on those sites that are making the situation even worse. Before you ever hit "share" again, make sure you're not posting one of these six things.
1. Your home and work addresses
"Duh," you think. But we're not just talking about typing your whole address onto your Facebook profile. "Checking in" and geotagging photos can give away your address even when you don't realize are. For instance, you know how you can create your own geotags for Instagram photos? When you do this, it pulls the location of where you're currently at. So if all your made-up geotags point to the same location, some creep can assume that's where you live or work.
Also be mindful of other people who may tag your address. One time a friend "checked in" to my apartment on Facebook - address and all - without asking for permission. Not OK.
2. Certain photos of kids
If there's one time you should be extra, extra careful, it's when it comes to children and social media. When they're not your own kids, you should always get permission from their parents before you post anything. And even if they are your kids, you still want to steer clear of uploading these compromising images, including where they go to school.
3. Vacation details
Telling people you're away from home for an extended period time is an invite for robbers to break in. This doesn't mean you can't post photos from your trip while you're on vacation. Just limit this to a select, trustworthy group of people as opposed to your entire network. And never post your entire itinerary ("I'm in Madrid Oct. 10 to 17, Berlin Oct. 17 to 25, and Rome Oct. 25 to 31 before flying back home. Know anyone in those cities who might want to hang out with a new friend?").
4. Password clues
Online security questions aren't the strongest, especially when they require information that you could easily give away on social networks. The small town where you grew up, your childhood pet's name, where you were married, your first boyfriend's name - these are all specific details your larger social circle doesn't need to know anyway.
5. Private photos
We're not assuming you would ever post nude photos on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. But you may Direct Message or Snapchat them. That's still a bad idea, seeing as how no one but you can be trusted with those photos these days.
6. Credit card or financial information
Yup, some people post pictures of their credit cards on social media (please say you're not one of them). But less obvious details you might unintentionally give away through Facebook or Twitter conversations: what bank you use and your income range. Even your birth date and place give hackers enough details to access your financial information.
jeudi 11 août 2016
Why Cutting Off All My Hair Was the Worst Decision I Ever Made
For a long time I joked about Lady Gaga's "Hair" being my anthem. I proudly told people that "I am my hair," yet I didn't realize how deeply I felt that until I cut it all off last year. I had just moved from California to New York and wanted to try something crazy and new, so my first thought was to change up my mane. I had already tried every color of the rainbow, so naturally I decided to go for broke and just cut it all off into a pixie. It's only hair, after all, right?
I liked my new cut initially. It was short and fun and so, so different from what I was used to. It took approximately three days for me to realize what a grave mistake I had made. I just kept telling myself, "It's only hair; it'll grow back."
I quickly learned that, despite thinking shorter is easier, it was actually a huge hassle. I had to wash it every morning, which is super unfortunate for someone who values sleeping in until the last possible second. I couldn't throw it in a ponytail when I was feeling lazy. It was impossible to keep it off my forehead at the gym. I tried bandanas and headbands, but I guess my head is too round for them to stay in place. And because my strands were short and just hanging out on my face all the time, it made my scalp really hot and made my forehead break out. These were all things I didn't even think about before chopping off a foot of hair.
But it's only hair; it'll grow back.
Before I knew it, I was in a downward spiral of hating my cut so much that I avoided even leaving my apartment. I worked from home a lot, stayed in on weekends, and ordered takeout many nights for dinner so I wouldn't have to go buy groceries. I invested in new hats that I was wearing almost daily, which gave me headaches, and I tried every possible method of bobby-pinning everything out of my face. I got highlights thinking it would help. It didn't. I dyed it darker thinking it would make me like it more. Wrong again. I still kept telling myself that my hair would grow back before I knew it, but I was having trouble believing myself anymore.
I have always loved my hair. As someone who dealt with problem skin and body-image issues for many years, it became the one thing I truly always appreciated about myself. As long as I had my hair, it didn't matter if my skin was a bit broken out or I felt like I was having a fat day. I was blessed with a good mane, and that was what gave me comfort. And with that mentality of loving my locks so much, I never thought I could do anything to it to make myself hate it. Style changes are fun, and if they suck, hey, guess what, it'll grow back. I was that person who would watch America's Next Top Model and laugh at the girls who freaked out on makeover day about making a drastic change. That season where the one girl cried profusely over cutting off her long length in favor of a pixie Tyra had chosen? Yeah, I laughed at her a lot. When she left the show and got extensions to feel more like herself? I laughed some more. Girl, it is just hair!
But now . . . girl, I feel you.
I spent eight months hating my hair. Cutting it all off wasn't empowering. It wasn't freeing. It didn't give me new perspective. It made me sad. So unbelievably sad, and truthfully, what was the hardest for me was feeling like I lost my femininity. I constantly felt like I needed to wear really girlie clothes and a good amount of makeup so that it was clear that even though I had a supershort style, I was, in fact, a woman. Basically, I felt ugly. I didn't feel like me.
But you know what? It's hair, and it grows back. Slowly but surely it does. The regrowing process has been more of a chore than I could have imagined. If I'm not careful, I end up with a weird little mullet. The day when I was finally able to get my strands into the tiniest of tiny ponytails I may have actually shed a tear or two of joy. I was finally on my way back to having my old look. I kept telling my poor mom, who had to listen to me complain almost every day this whole time, that once my hair was at a length I liked, I was going to have fun with it in hopes of truly loving it again.
I'm firmly on the path to being in love with my hair again thanks to some TLC from my new stylist. Am I well-aware that having such a meltdown over a haircut is a first-world problem? Absolutely. But am I allowed to have that meltdown? Yes, yes I am, because even though I always thought it was just hair, I now know that it means much more to me, and I will never, ever cut it all off again.
The Internet Is Showing Support For Body-Shamed Mexican Gymnast Alexa Moreno
One of the great things about the human race is that everyone's body is different. We come in all shapes and sizes, but we tend to limit ourselves into confining labels like "skinny" and "fat" that do nothing but perpetuate unfair beauty standards.
They're certainly not an accurate measure of one's athletic abilities, yet when 22-year-old Mexican gymnast Alexa Moreno took the Olympic stage in Rio, internet trolls bit at the chance to body shame her, ridiculously poking fun at her appearance instead of acknowledging her major accomplishments in the sport.
Though mean tweets have, thankfully, been deleted, there are now hundreds of positive messages for Alexa in their place from Twitter users around the world calling out the unfair shaming of an Olympian who at 4'10" weighs just 99 pounds. Read on to see examples of that so-deserved support. Then, discover even more Latino athletes you should be following during the Games.
the body shaming of mexican women is nothing new but you are a treasure and made us mexicanos proud 🇲🇽 #AlexaMoreno
- cass (@bummedcass) August 11, 2016
Hateful comments! You're a beautiful and very talented! Te amo hermana y eres muy preciosa. You're body is perfect and go 🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽
- fresa de el barrio (@chicxdegallo) August 11, 2016
Hats off to #AlexaMoreno. It takes character, hardwork and passion to reach the levels you did. Its ur critics who lack all these 3 👍
- indian@heart (@vignayak) August 10, 2016
The people who are hating on #AlexaMoreno probably can't even touch their toes 💅
- Dottie Minerva (@DerpySeaCaballo) August 9, 2016
#AlexaMoreno, thank you for giving many young Mexican girls hope. You rock... #rio2016
- Julio Cruz (@jucruz86) August 9, 2016
#AlexaMoreno represents every brown girl & boy who have felt discouraged bc of their body type, dreams come true & anything is possible 🇲🇽
- marina (@oxminaox) August 11, 2016
22 Sexy Thor Moments Might Make Chris Hemsworth the Hottest Avenger
It's been over a year since Avengers: Age of Ultron came out, but the battle for the sexiest Avenger rages on. Sometimes we can't believe our eyes when we see how sexy Chris Evans is as Captain America, but then we see him alongside Hemsworth in one of the Avengers movies and get majorly confused. There's a fair way to analyze this evidence: look at Thor's sexiest moments. Then we should be able to declare a winner . . . or not, because they are both so damn hot. Oh well, we tried! In honor Hemsworth's brithday this week, here are the sexiest moments of Hemsworth's Thor days. Buckle up.
Apple's Newest Ad For the Olympics Will Bring You to Tears
Apple knows how to move us to tears - and we're not mad about it. The company's newest ad focuses on a series of images meant to show how we're more similar than we like to think.
The video, set to air on TV during the Olympic opening ceremonies on Aug. 5, showcases a series of photos and videos shot on an iPhone 6S. As different images show up, the late Dr. Maya Angelou reads her poem "Human Family." One line that truly sticks out is "We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike," a line perfect for the Olympics, as people from all over the world come together to support their teams.
Watch the video above and don't be surprised if you get a lump in your throat and start sniffling.
The 2-Step Outfit Formula That Works 365 Days a Year
There are warm-weather outfits, there are cold-weather outfits, and then there are outfits you can rock year-round, no matter what the temperature's like outside. Pairing a bodysuit with a denim bottom is definitely a look that works rain or shine, in Summer or Winter, 365 days a year. It's just a matter of switching up your sleeve length or swapping out shorts for pants. Scroll through to see how bloggers have styled this easy, versatile, two-piece combination. Then shop what you need to nail it yourself.
This Fox Sports Debate Shaming Olympic Athletes Will Make Your Blood Boil
When we heard that Tamara Holder, the host of Sports Court, was hosting a debate about Olympic athletes and makeup, we felt a case of side eye coming on. But as we watched, the side eye developed into full-blown rage.
Holder was curious: do female athletes use makeup for empowerment? Or is it because sex sells?
She then introduced "two men without shortage of opinion," Bo Dietl (a Fox contributor and former detective for the New York City Police Department) and Mark Simone, NYC radio host and close friend of Donald Trump.
Obviously, they are not authorities on female athletes and their makeup preferences. Fox could have called in a sports psychologist, a makeup artist, an Olympic coach, or (duh!) a former female Olympic gold medalist. But no, these two dudes were apparently the two most qualified experts available for this debate.
"The whole point of the Olympics, the whole reason for this training . . . is product endorsements. Cosmetics companies are opening up a ton of revenue for product endorsements," said Simone.
While Mark has a point - many Olympians have gone on to be faces of CoverGirl - he also needs to take a seat. Yes, Procter and Gamble (the company that owns CoverGirl) is a major sponsor of the Olympic Games. But when an athlete signs a contract with an iconic beauty brand, it is a fringe benefit of becoming a revered sportswoman, not necessarily the end goal. Furthermore, P&G supports all athletes, not just its Olympian ambassadors. Well in advance of qualification for the Olympics, the corporation hosts events like the P&G Gymnastics Championships and partners with soccer clubs. These events help to give athletes some of the resources they need to achieve their goals.
Dietl had a different opinion on why Olympians should wear makeup. Apparently, he thinks his discomfort of viewing a woman without makeup takes precedence over her personal preference. "When you see an athlete, why should you have to look at some chick's zits?" Dietl said. "I like to see a person that wins that gold medal go up there and look beautiful." However, he added that men could benefit from a little makeup as well. Michael Phelps, when you win your inevitable next gold, note that Dietl thinks you should put a little "blushatation" on your cheeks so you don't look like a "white rat."
The show then pulled up a quote that Shannon Rowbury, American middle distance runner, made to USA Today. "You can be a strong, athletic, courageous woman and you can wear lipstick," she said. Rowbury also remarked that she uses makeup as a form of creative expression during a race, as there aren't a lot of ways to express her personality when competing. "It puts me in my happy place before I start the race."
Simone insisted that Rowbury really puts on makeup for the cameras. "Look how beautiful you look with that makeup on . . . but what do you look like when you crawl out of bed in the morning?" Dietl asked of Holder, who seemed visibly uncomfortable before confessing that she "looks like a dragon." Sigh.
Remember, Gabby Douglas is the third-best gymnast in the entire world, but people still find it necessary to remark upon her "unkempt hair." While this Fox Sports clip is largely steeped in sexism, it's also disheartening proof that society is obsessed with sizing people up by their looks alone.
Makeup shaming is nothing new. Beauty lovers of all ages, races, and genders have faced snide comments just because of their love for products. But to cast judgment on Olympic athletes for their appearance instead of celebrating their incredible power, determination, talent, and success is not just sad, but also laughable. They are the only ones who should decide whether or not they wear lipstick. Now if only an Olympian could challenge Dietl and Simone to a televised feat of strength; so those two bros would know what it feels like to be judged on such a large scale.
The No-Exercise Secret Personal Trainers Use For Great Abs
Ever wonder why every trainer you've ever worked with in the gym, watched online, or seen in magazines all have great abs? Sure, they work out a lot, they eat right, and they do all the stuff they tell you to do, but there's got to be something more to their success, right? Absolutely! Want to know their secret? It's as simple as good posture!
That's right! Your mother's nagging to sit up straight and stand tall was right all along. Good posture is the foundation for everything we do from running, jumping, walking, lifting weights, and even sitting at a desk.
How does posture have that much of an impact on trainers that they seemingly always have a great six-pack? Glad you asked! First and foremost, you have to understand that good posture means proper alignment of the body. According to Kendall Wood, NASM CPT and author of Core Fitness Solution, "When your body is in alignment, everything functions at a heightened level, but when you are hunched over a desk typing every day, or if you have a job where you stand all day and inevitably do a lot of leaning, and slouching, you're not harnessing the muscles in your core."
In fact, not having perfect posture can almost ensure you won't ever have a lean middle. According to Wood, "I can always feel my abs when I'm at my desk or standing for long periods, because I have them engaged." That doesn't mean you have to constantly be flexing your core, but as Wood told us: "It's not like I'm always crunching - I'm just always aware of my posture and keeping it correct, which means those muscles are always on!"
Sounds simple, right? Wood agrees: "It's all about being mindful of your body." By standing up nice and tall, you really are strengthening your core muscles. The same effect happens when you are walking, running, or performing any other standing exercises with the correct posture. Do you think sitting at a desk means you're left out? No! If you're sitting up straight in a chair, you need to be more aware of how you are sitting. "When the body is in proper alignment, you'll notice less strain on the lower back, the spine will have less of a curve at the base, and your stomach will actually look thinner because of the shift in the pelvis," Wood said. As an added bonus, paying attention to your posture will also enhance the exercises you do and give you better results while working out because you will be using the muscle groups more efficiently.
How to Perfect Your Posture
If you really want to make sure you're keeping proper alignment and can benefit from perfect posture like your personal trainer does, this is the way to do it:
- Step 1: Stand with your feet hip width apart in front of a full-length mirror and look straight ahead.
- Step 2: Straighten out your neck so it looks like you're trying to make yourself as tall as you can.
- Step 3: Draw in your belly and allow your torso and spine to lengthen.
- Step 4: Widen your shoulders, but don't bring them forward or backward.
- Step 5: Adjust your feet so that your toes are pointing straight ahead and your heels and the balls of your feet are both touching the floor evenly.
- Step 6: Feel that? That's your core activating because you're in proper alignment.
Keep this practice when you're standing up and sitting down, and you're sure to see the same results as your trainer. Sure, you're still going to have to work out, but now that you've got their secret in your arsenal, you're well on your way to getting toned abs, more efficient digestion, and even the prevention of lower-back pain.
Why I'm Grateful My Mom Didn't Destroy My Body Image
I don't think it's a new revelation to say that a mom has an incredibly powerful influence over her daughter's body image. This includes her approach to exercise, her relationship with food, and how she feels about herself as "a woman" entering adulthood. In a report from USA Today, Dr. Leslie Sim, clinical director at the Mayo Clinic said, "Moms are probably the most important influence on a daughter's body image."
The influence is multidimensional; it comes from the way the mother herself acts (and leads by example), and then the actual parenting: the words used, the rules set in place, the direction. The smallest of words or actions can have a huge impact, and it can be either positive or negative.
Unfortunately I've seen so many friends develop an unhealthy relationship with food, or addiction to exercise that stems from their childhoods, with a pressure to be healthy or "skinny," or to look a certain way; to live up to a standard. I've seen young women with a tendency to constantly nitpick their appearance and obsess over their weight, and these aren't habits or mindsets they've picked up in the last year or so . . . it's been brewing and developing and snowballing over decades.
The flip side? Moms also have this incredible opportunity to do just the opposite. Not to brag, but my mom is definitely one of the winners in this field. I feel unbelievably fortunate to have been parented by someone who embodied self-love, balance, and positive body image. Here's what she did right, and what I've learned for when I have a daughter or two of my own.
Balance Is the Key to Health
I grew up in a household that never portioned out cereal, never had diet sodas, almost always had some kind of snack cake available, and made a lot of pizza. Sounds pretty bad, right? It wasn't! Key to success: we had vegetables with every meal. Since basically birth, I've loved veggies - they've always been a staple in my diet. Mom cooked them in all sorts of ways; we had well-rounded meals, and she hit all the areas of nutrition. In fact, I didn't know about the concept of calorie counting until I was in my 20s, because we just ate a really balanced diet. She prepared homemade meals we enjoyed, we all indulged now and then, and didn't blink twice. Our meals truly were healthy, even if they weren't low-carb, low-fat, sugar-free, etc.
Know What Goes in Your Body
On that note, my mom would always educate me on why we'd eat certain things. I remember getting notes in my lunches in sixth grade on a yogurt or pudding cup: "This has protein, so it will make you feel full!" She'd explain that "more protein is better to feel full for a long time, so you won't be as hungry later," and "this spinach has a ton of iron, which your body needs to be healthy and have energy." (Also, "aspartame is evil and terrible for you!") I learned so much about food from my mom; by focusing on the positive (and providing delicious, healthy foods we all loved), I've never really wanted to reach for greasy, sugary foods all the time, and I've also focused on the nutritious options first. But let me tell you - when we want dessert, we GO FOR IT. The outcome? I have a healthy relationship with food. I know that food can be nourishing, and provide joy - they're not mutually exclusive ideas.
Move Because it Makes You Feel Good
I was never forced to exercise, do sports, or anything I didn't want to do as a child. Was I a couch potato? Hell no! I was still encouraged to move. I loved swimming at the pool or beach, running around outside with my little brother, learning to surf in middle school, walking everywhere with my parents (including taking sunset beach or lagoon walks before or after dinnertime), and being active in ways that weren't traditional. In high school, I danced because it was fun and I loved performing - not because I was trying to "stay in shape."
That said, my mom showed me how working out makes your body and brain feel good, too. My mom never had me focused on a scale - just on how I feel, how my body feels, and how happy something was making me. When she got me to start running and walking, we had no body goals, just mile goals, and I got into the best shape of my life, which opened up an entire world of fitness. My favorite activity is going to a workout class, and it's not because I'm going for a goal weight, it's because I genuinely enjoy the experience.
Self-Love Is Essential to Everything
My mom's best quality? Her happiness and self-assuredness comes from within. It doesn't matter what a scale reads, or the number on the inside of her jeans - she finds joy within herself, and has taught me to aim for the same. It's much easier said than done, but I've learned so much from her about finding your strength within. From her I learned that if we root our happiness and how we feel about ourselves in something external (i.e., a weight, how much people compliment us, what other people say or think), then we are so fragile and set up to be destroyed emotionally.
It also didn't hurt that my mom totally showered me with compliments. She wasn't trying to sugarcoat anything, she just celebrated me. I knew that her words were honest, and she would absolutely tell me if a dress or a swimsuit wasn't the right cut for my shape, but she never once blamed anything on "my shape." Her words of affirmation soon became mine, and I learned to embrace myself with the vocabulary she gave to me through example.
I've learned to appreciate all my body can do for me, through ups and downs, weight fluctuations, injuries, etc. My mom showed me (and my body!) unconditional love, which has taught me to love myself and my body unconditionally as well.
Prioritize Happiness, Health Will Follow
Through looking back at all these categories of how she shaped me, I've been able to pinpoint her main message: when you focus on what makes your body and brain feel good, the health will come as well. And look, I know that everyone has a different body, a different story, and that this concept may not be for everyone, but it really worked for our family, and set me up to be happy and love myself. We did and ate things that brought us joy (wow, Mom, so KonMari of you! so ahead of your time!), and as such I am better off - body and mind. Thanks, Mommy.
President Barack Obama Just Casually Dropped 2 Bomb Summer Playlists
Here we were, minding our own business and truly believing our love for President Barack Obama couldn't get any deeper. On Thursday, however, that all changed when Obama dropped not one but two fire Summer playlists on his Twitter account, thereby solidifying his status as the coolest and most down-to-earth president we've ever seen. The eclectic lists - one to enjoy in the daytime and another to light up the night - feature artists from all across the musical spectrum, including Fiona Apple, Aretha Franklin, Prince, and Sara Bareilles. So while we've been busy jamming out to the best Summer songs from 2016, the POTUS has been doing a bit of bopping on his own. We're just glad we're lucky enough to share it with him.
The Cast of Orange Is the New Black Is Already Giving Us a Sneak Peek at Season 5
If you're still reeling from Orange Is the New Black's intense, compelling, heartbreaking fourth season, you're definitely not alone. It's full of more twists and turns than we ever thought possible, and it packs in one hell of an ending. To tide us all over until season five returns in June of next year (most likely), why not take a look at all the fun Instagrams the cast has already started sharing while filming the new episodes? Keep reading to see the cute snaps, and then check out every reason OITNB is so great.
Your Eyes Will Widen When You See What Designer Item Selena Gomez Just Gifted Her Best Friend
Ah, the gift of Givenchy. The brand's classic Antigona satchel can be worn with anything, including a pair of leggings and a T-shirt. Selena Gomez is well aware, which is why she gifted one to her best friend, Courtney Barry. Selena documented the mini birthday ceremony on Snapchat, explaining that Courtney's never carried a purse.
Despite Courtney's laid-back sense of style, Selena knew the designer item would make her feel special, and that's what makes the present top-notch. Read on to see Selena and Courtney celebrating, then catch a glimpse of the It accessory on Selena's snaps and check out our girlfriends gift guide if you're feeling inspired.
This Might Be the Most Jaw-Dropping Maternity Shoot You’ve Ever Seen
As her first pregnancy comes to an end, Keturah Antongiorgi wanted to take advantage of this special time and capture these precious memories in a unique way. Inspired by the popular milk bath trend, Keturah enlisted help from the talented Neva Michelle Photography, to stage and shoot an ethereal maternity session filled with fresh blooms that enhanced Keturah's natural beauty.
The glowing mom-to-be, who is in the military as well as a lifestyle blogger, takes stunning to the next level in these portraits that effortlessly seem to elevate milk bath photography. While her photographer knew this concept is becoming more common, Michelle also recognized that there was something special about the final images. "She is not the first or the last to do this style of session, but I love how each session is unique from one another," Michelle told POPSUGAR. "She was so relaxed and peaceful and that is what I wanted to capture with these photos."
Even those who don't necessarily understand the concept behind posing for photos in milky water can't deny the sheer beauty here!
Every Star Wars Fan Will FREAK Out Over This Levitating Phone Charger
Guys, the Force is real. A wireless levitating phone charger, called OvRcharge, is on Kickstarter and we want to get it ASAP.
According to the campaign page, "Magnetic force is used to counteract the effects of the gravitational acceleration and any other accelerations," lifting your device midair above the platform. And guess what? It spins, too! The best part is that once your phone (or tablet) is fully charged, it will still continue to float and rotate.
Pledges range from $5 (to get on the backers list) to $2,099 (comes with 10 complete kits), depending on which products you want. So far, the gadget has 97 backers and has raised nearly $22,000 since the time of writing. AR Designs has until Aug. 18 to reach its goal of $30,885, but who wouldn't be down for a levitating charger?
See how it works ahead and don't be surprised if you back it on Kickstarter immediately.
11 Demi Lovato Costume Ideas That Will Make You Cool For Halloween
We've loved Demi Lovato since her early Disney Channel days, but she's gone through a total transformation to become the superstar she is now. Through the years, her confidence has only gotten stronger, and it's evident in her new provocative lyrics and crazy-sexy outfits.
She's not afraid to show off her curvy body and show a little skin with edgy, revealing looks. That's why we're so inspired to take a play from Demi's book and sport one of her daring looks this Halloween. Whether you're looking for a bombshell beautiful costume or something a little more dark and striking, you can look to the singer for some inspiration. Keep scrolling for our breakdown of Demi's 11 best Halloween-worthy outfits, then check out 15 ways you can channel the ultimate Latin diva: Jennifer Lopez.
Camilla Belle's Daring Fashion Choices Are Something You Have to See to Believe
Last year, Camilla Belle was all about prints and brights. This year, she changed her mind and jumped to the other side of the spectrum, choosing dark colors and moody dresses for her first few appearances but slowly warming up to colorful pieces when Winter came to an end. No matter what her style inspiration is, the important thing is we can always count on the Brazilian-American actress to wear interesting and daring pieces that we won't see on any other star.
In 2016, she has already stunned us in a long-sleeved floral-embellished Louis Vuitton dress at the UNICEF Ball in Beverly Hills, a black Polo Ralph Lauren dress and cheetah-print coat at the brand's New York Fashion Week presentation, and a Monique Lhuillier high-neck lace dress to the premiere of Jennifer Lopez's Las Vegas show. We're sure this means many more gorgeous looks are to come from Camilla. See her best so far.
20 Piña Colada Recipes So Freaking Refreshing You'll Turn Off the AC
Our idea of a perfect Summer day is a comfy beach chair under an umbrella, sand between our toes, a good book, the ocean ahead, and an icy-cold piña colada in our hands. Yours too? Well, if your obsession with the refreshing, tropical drink runs as deep as ours, you'll be excited to find 20 recipes infused with the juicy coconut and pineapple flavor of the cocktail. We're not just talking about the classic drink but early-morning smoothies, ice cream, and even salads. Scroll ahead and enjoy your fix.
13 Fashion Lessons I Wish Someone Had Taught Me Before College
In college you're constantly learning something new . . . and for me, many of these lessons were sartorial. As somebody who studied textiles and clothing at my university, I was surprisingly uninformed about the realities of college fashion. This made itself painfully apparent when I scrolled a few years into my Instagram, hunting for photos to use in this post. I nearly deleted the whole thing.
The number of ill-advised outfits (and hairstyles, for that matter) that I flaunted during my college career are embarrassingly high, but at least they make me a great resource when it comes to fashion lessons everyone should learn before college . . . right? So take it from an expert at learning fashion lessons the hard way and take these to heart; I've worn enough body-con dresses and ugly sweatpants for the both of us.
What All Parents Need to Know About the Princess Phase
Something that can be seen as inherently harmless and wholesome for children can actually stir up a major debate among parents: the magical world of princesses.
Many adults are completely against the princess phase and work to shield their daughters from what they see as a land of pink, weak role models, female stereotypes, and warped romantic relationships. Others completely disagree and view these beloved characters as innocent fun for their kids to explore, develop their imagination, and learn life lessons. Although new research from Brigham Young University points to potential long-term risks of going through the princess phase, author Jerramy Fine stands up for the empowering aspects of princesses in her book, In Defense of the Princess: How Plastic Tiaras and Fairytale Dreams Can Inspire Smart, Strong Women.
Like every story, the tales from the royal kingdom have more than one side and aren't solely good . . . or evil. Here, try to understand all aspects of the princess phase before deciding what is right for your own children.
Whoops! Chlorine Turned Ryan Lochte's Platinum Hair Green
Ryan Lochte debuted an icy silver mane in honor of kicking off his competing in the 2016 Summer Olympics. But just six days into the games, his platinum hair has mysteriously transformed into a shade of pale green.
Ryan was captured with his minty mane while celebrating his recent Gold medal victory. Though he previously shared the process of dyeing his naturally dark hair silver with his followers, there was no mention on Ryan's social platforms of a plan to go green. This leads us to believe that his new pistachio shade is due to the transformative effects of chlorine.
If you've ever dyed your hair (especially platinum blond), you likely know that taking a dip in the swimming pool can alter your hair color. Copper compounds in the water get absorbed deep within your strands and attach to your hair's protein, causing it to take on brassy - or green - undertones. Being that Ryan swims for a living, it would not surprise us if his time in the pool was responsible for his new look.
If you're an avid swimmer (or just enjoy taking a refreshing dip), you can avoid turning your fresh dye job green by using products made to counteract the brassiness caused by chlorine. We recommend consistently shampooing and treating your hair after swimming with the Bright Blond line by Oribe, or maintain your blond with products specifically created for your color.
Whether his green hair was a beginner's faux pas or totally intentional, we confess that we're happy that Ryan is embracing the vibrant hair trend. We fully support any further decisions to try out other shades on the spectrum. Read on to see more shots of his look.
From Apples to Zucchini: Your Seasonal Produce Guide
Arguments abound for eating seasonally, but it can be a little tricky to keep track of what's available when. While one could always just take a stroll through the market to find out what's at its prime, that can make meal planning a bit tricky. Instead, check out this comprehensive glossary, and you'll know what to expect at your market, what to look forward to in months to come, and what to get your fill of before it's gone.
Rather browse by season? Check out our guides for each:
When you're done browsing, print out a seasonality guide to post on your fridge or tuck into your purse: we have one for fruit and one for vegetables.
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