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.
lundi 5 septembre 2016
This Is the Diet to Go On If You Want to Lose Weight (According to Harvard Researchers)
If you want to lose weight, what's on your plate is often more important than the minutes you spend in the gym. And if you want to see the most change, a 2015 study from Harvard says you should be cutting carbs, not fat.
For the study, published in PLoS One, researchers from Harvard and Brigham and Women's Hospital reviewed 53 randomized trials of over 68,000 patients who had been assigned to either low-fat or low-carb diets. They found that low-carb diets were consistently better at helping patients lose weight than low-fat diets; the participants on the low-carb diets lost 2.5 pounds more than those on low-fat diets, with the average weight loss among all groups at about six pounds.
This latest study on the weight-loss benefits of a low-carb diet adds further evidence that if you want to lose weight, ditching bread - not olive oil - can help you see success. Another recent study, for example, showed that dieters who ate fewer than 40 grams of carbohydrates per day lost about eight pounds more than dieters who were put on a low-fat diet. Other studies have shown that high-carb diets may be the real heart-disease culprit, not saturated fat. All in all, this new review is a good reminder that if you want to lose weight, you should choose a diet rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and fresh produce. Of course, not all fats are created equal - find out which healthy fats you should be incorporating into your diet here.
When Zucchini Noodles and Avocado Sauce Meet Grilled Chicken in 1 Dish, Magic Happens
Grab your trusty spiralizer, because you're going to need it for this delicious "pasta" recipe from popular YouTuber heyitspriscila.
The seasonal dish, which uses zucchini noodles in place of regular ones, features a rich blend of textures and flavors guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings - with zero guilt involved. From a creamy avocado sauce to lean protein, crunchy corn, and lots of red pepper flakes, Priscila's decadently healthy meal option is sure to be your new favorite. Press play above for the cooking instructions, and then check out even more avocado pasta recipes you'll love.
The 1 Outfit That Pops Up Every Fashion Week Without Fail
While there are It items that have their moment at Fashion Week - the Chloé Jane bag, sparkly Miu Miu heels, and slogan clutches included - one look never dies: jeans and a tee.
The combination is simple, but the well-dressed women who attend the shows offer unique updates every season. Read on to see some of our favorite takes on plain old denim during (you betchya!) the fashion world's most extravagant month. Then scoop up the essentials you need to pull off the easy outfit just in time for a brand-new season of shows.
Gordon Ramsay's Badass Tip For Making the Very Best Burgers
Image Source: Getty Images / Ethan Miller
Gordon Ramsay knows his sh*t, especially when it comes to classics. I trust him with my life when it comes to scrambled eggs and I'm about to do the same for his method on burgers. While at a press event to promote his new cooking game with Glu Mobile, Gordon joked, "The last time I was this ambitious was opening up my burger restaurant in Las Vegas, because you're doomed to come over as a Brit and attempt to open a burger restaurant in the middle of Las Vegas."
Image Source: Getty Images / Bryan Steffy
Here's where Chef Ramsay gets to the meaty part: "But we perfected the patty, and we basted it in Devonshire butter, and brought something new in. We toughened up the brioche buns so it could absorb all that butter . . ." Do you remember the Jack-In-The-Box Buttery Burger? Yeah, yeah, we all thought America had gone to hell and back until we took a bite and became believers. Quite simply, fat makes things taste better, and Gordon Ramsay definitely knows that. In case you are worried you can't procure Devonshire butter at your local grocery store, opt for a cultured butter like this one from Trader Joe's. It's salty and has a slightly funky cheese flavor. Baste the hell out of that burger for optimum flavor! And secondly, raise your hand if your bun has disentegrated within five minutes of placing the patty on it. Gordon has such an obvious yet uncommon solution: use a tougher bread! While a homemade brioche bun may be out of the question, consider a sturdy pretzel bun.
Bomb-grade uranium shipments through Ontario prompt outcry
A highly secretive plan to ship weapons-grade nuclear waste from a federal lab northwest of Ottawa to the United States is drawing ire in some of the southern Ontario communities along the potential route.
Bomb-grade uranium shipments through Ontario prompt outcry
A highly secretive plan to ship weapons-grade nuclear waste from a federal lab northwest of Ottawa to the United States is drawing ire in some of the southern Ontario communities along the potential route.
11 Transitional Pieces to Buy Now and Wear All Through Fall
Shopping at the dead end of Summer can be tricky. Is it worth it to splurge on that sleeveless top, or is it much too close to Fall? Luckily, we've done the dirty work for you and considered all of the season's most prominent trends. The 11 transitional pieces here are lightweight enough to wear now, but they'll also last you through the end of November, providing your looks with a hefty dose of style.
Scroll through to find your finalized shopping list - don't worry, we checked it twice - accompanied by some top-notch outfit inspiration, and start collecting these items as soon as you can. Trust us, you won't feel bad about a little splurge once you slip into these staples.
Bristled by wire brushes? Here are alternatives for cleaning your BBQ
Butchers, chefs and barbecue aficionados give their bristle-free suggestions for cleaning your grill, from tinfoil to robots.
Bristled by wire brushes? Here are alternatives for cleaning your BBQ
Butchers, chefs and barbecue aficionados give their bristle-free suggestions for cleaning your grill, from tinfoil to robots.
What to Do With Used or Leftover Charcoal
Your Summer grilling soiree was a hit, and all that's left to do is pack away leftovers and dump out your grill full of charcoal ash and spent hickory chips. But before you upend that Weber, take care to dispose of the mess safely (ash can still be hot!) and properly.
To dispose of charcoal and wood ash: Let the ash cool for 48 hours. You can speed up this process by pouring water over the hot charcoal and stirring it very carefully. When the ash has cooled completely, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in an noncombustible outdoor trash bin.
If you used additive-free lump charcoal: Fertilize your plants! Charcoal ash contains potash, an important nutrient for some plants. It's also a great way to increase the pH of the soil.
When you have a bag of used charcoal (and not briquettes with additives) sitting around your garage, there are a number of ways to use it up, even if grilling isn't on this Summer's agenda.
- Keep a few pieces in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator to kill odors.
- Feed your compost pile to increase the carbon content.
- Place a lump at the bottom of a flower vase to make cut flowers last longer.
- Suppress garden weeds and maintain soil moisture by using charcoal as a mulch.
- Mix crushed charcoal with orchid potting medium to increase the alkalinity.
- And, of course, keep them around for Winter snowman faces!
Prince William and Kate Middleton's Latest Outing Includes a Very Creepy Toy Dinosaur
Prince William and Kate Middleton were all smiles when they visited the Eden Project, an educational charity that teaches people about the living world, in Cornwall, England, on Friday. The royal couple looked completely amused as they explored the Rainforest Biome, the world's largest indoor rainforest, and came in contact with a few funny creatures. While William donned a blazer and khaki slacks, Kate added a pop of color with her jacket and printed blue trousers from Gap. Not only did the pair stop for a refreshing drink at the Baobab & Rum Bar, but the Duchess of Cambridge also shared a few laughs when she was greeted by a toy dinosaur. Later that day, the couple continued the fun by hopping on a boat to St. Martin, waving at the crowd as they took off.
100+ Traditionally Boy Names Perfect For a Baby Girl
For those who've long felt pigeonholed by the idea that there are boy names strictly for boys and girl names exclusively for girls, a new baby-naming trend is the perfect gender-neutralizing antidote.
Many parents are opting to give their baby girls a traditional boy's name, and we're sure the amount of female Noahs, Flynns, and Garretts will only multiply now that Blake Lively, whose own moniker isn't classically "female," has named her newborn daughter James. In fact, it's a tactic that has long had a place in Hollywood. Drew Barrymore, Reese Witherspoon, Hayden Panettiere, Parker Posey, Taylor Swift, Cameron Diaz . . . they all borrowed from the boys.
Curious what other boy names are being recast for the opposite sex? Read on. You might even be surprised to see some names - like Kelly or Dana, for instance - that have so long been coopted by women, you forgot they were ever boys' names to begin with.
Boy Names For Girls Starting With . . .
A
Addison, Adrian, Aidan, Ainsley, Alex, Andy, Ari, Ashley, Ashton, Aspen, Aubrey, August, Austin, Avery
B
Bailey, Barry, Bay, Blaine, Blake, Bobbie, Brett, Brook
C
Cameron, Campbell, Carroll, Carson, Casey, Chandler, Charlie, Chris, Christian, Claude, Clay, Cory
D
Dana, Dakota, Dale, Daryl, Devin, Dorian, Drew, Dylan
E
Eddie, Eli, Elliott, Emerson
F
Finn, Flynn, Francis, Frankie
G
Gabriel, Garrett, Glenn, Gray
H
Harley, Harper, Hayden
I
Ira
J
James, Jean, Jesse, Jordan, Jude, Jules, Julian
K
Kaden, Kelly, Kennedy, Kyle
L
Lake, Logan, Lyle
M
Madison, Mason, Max, Morgan
N
Noah
O
Owen
P
Parker, Pat, Peyton
Q
Quincy, Quinn
R
Ray, Reagan, Reed, Reese, Riley, River, Roan, Roy, Rudy, Ryan
S
Sage, Sam, Sawyer, Shawn, Spencer, Stevie
T
Tanner, Taylor, Toby, Tyler
V
Val
W
Wesley, West, Wylie
40 Stylish Small Tattoos You'll Want to Flaunt Every Day
Choosing a great outfit takes time and careful consideration - a tattoo, well, the fact it's permanent means it takes even more thinking. Even a woman with a great sense of style sometimes needs a little inspiration to figure out what she wants and where.
So if fear of buyer's remorse has kept you from getting your first ink, why not start with something small? These 40 tiny tattoos are stylish enough to show off but are also discreet so you can tuck them away. Just scroll to see them all!
10 Quick Ways to Burn 300 Calories
When you don't have a lot of time to devote to a workout, you gotta make every minute count! Choose one of these heart-pumping, muscle-building exercises and give it all you've got for the designated number of minutes, and you'll burn 300 calories.
- Kettlebell training: 15 minutes
- Jumping rope: 24 minutes
- Swimming (crawl): 25 minutes
- Rock climbing: 25 minutes
- Cardio kickboxing: 27 minutes
- Cycling at a pace of 14 to 15.9 mph: 28 minutes
- Running at a pace of 6 mph (10 minutes per mile): 28 minutes
- Cross-country skiing: 35 minutes
- Snowshoeing: 35 minutes
- Burpees: 35 minutes
All calculations are based on a 150-pound woman.
10 Quick Ways to Burn 300 Calories
When you don't have a lot of time to devote to a workout, you gotta make every minute count! Choose one of these heart-pumping, muscle-building exercises and give it all you've got for the designated number of minutes, and you'll burn 300 calories.
- Kettlebell training: 15 minutes
- Jumping rope: 24 minutes
- Swimming (crawl): 25 minutes
- Rock climbing: 25 minutes
- Cardio kickboxing: 27 minutes
- Cycling at a pace of 14 to 15.9 mph: 28 minutes
- Running at a pace of 6 mph (10 minutes per mile): 28 minutes
- Cross-country skiing: 35 minutes
- Snowshoeing: 35 minutes
- Burpees: 35 minutes
All calculations are based on a 150-pound woman.
This Frida Kahlo-Inspired Nicho Will Brighten Up Any Room in Your Home
The following post was originally featured on Live Colorful and written by Elba Valverde, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Latina.
A few days ago we honored Frida Kahlo by sharing some decoupaged earrings using our favorite portrait of the famous Mexican artist. This month, I have seen tons of pins, products, illustrations, and other amazing things in tribute to Frida. That inspired me to make something original and unique for my workspace and add some color to a black-and-white portrait of Frida and frame it inside a shadow box that looks like a nicho.
I have always been fascinated by her colorful artwork and I adore the clothing and accessories she used to wear. So I tried to re-create her style using colored pencils, fabric scraps, buttons, small fabric flowers, and other knick-knacks that I had laying around the house. This do-it-yourself project will let your imagination fly, and you will love your unique and colorful Frida Kahlo nicho.
Click over to Live Colorful to see how to make yours!
The Ultimate Guide to Fall's Hottest Handbag Trends
We're in a Fall state of mind. Our eyes are on the new school of handbag trends that bring fresh updates, plush fabrics, exotic flavors, and showstopping details to our Autumn outfits. With so many designers, shapes, sizes, and colors to sift through, our team handpicked the best and brightest of this Fall handbag class. Click on a specific trend to jump to those picks, or sit back and soak in all of our favorite Fall handbag trends for 2016.
Never Forget That Time Camilla Belle Cast the Ultimate Love Spell in Practical Magic
With the news that Practical Magic will be making its way to Netflix on Sept. 1 (aka just in time to watch it over and over again before Halloween), we can't help but conjure up our favorite scene from the movie, starring Brazilian-American actress Camilla Belle in her precious role as young Sally Owens.
In the clip, young Sally, who is played by Sandra Bullock as an adult, plucks flower petals as she casts a spell called Amas Veritas for her dream guy, hoping it will prevent her from dying of a broken heart like - spoiler alert! - her mother did.
"He can flip pancakes in the air," she starts, reciting her ideal qualities in her true love while her sister Gillian (played by Evan Rachel Wood) listens. "He'll be marvelously kind. And his favorite shape will be a star. And he'll have one green eye and one blue." Press play above to watch Camilla display her witchy acting chops before you add the full film to your queue. Then, take a scroll through the star's best style moments this year.
These Brutally Honest Parenting Comics Will Crack You Up
Brian Gordon - a cartoonist and dad of two - has been making fun of being a parent since he became one. In an attempt to keep himself sane and bond with other parents, he shamelessly started creating funny-because-it's-true parenting comics - and we can't stop laughing at them.
As soon as he brought his first child home from the hospital, Brian convinced himself that he was the worst parent ever, that is, until he started sharing his insecurities with other parents, who completely identified with his struggles. From there on, he decided to start documenting anything and everything about parenting - from being exhausted to being spit-up on for the hundredth time - through cartoons, and it's now his favorite thing to do.
"Being a parent can be incredibly frustrating, and I think sharing those frustrations and laughing with other parents is the best thing we can do to keep each other sane," Brian told us. And keeping us all sane, he is. His comics have been so successful in the parenting world that he was able to compile his comics into his first book, which should undoubtedly be centered among the pile of kid crap on every parent's coffee table.
Read through to see some of Brian's hilarious comics, preorder his book before its March 22 release, become a patron of his work to see behind-the-scenes strips, shop his designs at Society6 and Zazzle, and visit him regularly for new comics.
20 Cheeseburgers So Good They Might Make You Emotional
It's basically scientifically proven that burgers are the best Summer food. And while there's nothing wrong with a classic cheeseburger, you'll thank yourself for getting a little creative and branching out - goat cheese and guac burgers, anyone? Whether you've got an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan, you can (and should) make these stellar cheeseburger recipes all season long.
Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander Make Their Red Carpet Debut as a Couple
Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander made their red carpet debut as a couple on Thursday when they attended a photocall for their upcoming film, The Light Between Oceans, at the 73rd Venice Film Festival in Italy. The couple, who has been dating since 2014, put their love on display as cameras caught them sharing a few sweet glances. While Michael looked dapper in a black jacket and jeans, Alicia was simply elegant in a breezy tie-dye dress. Later than evening, the two made another gorgeous appearance together when they attended the red carpet premiere of their movie. Even though the two are usually pretty reserved about their real-life romance, they have been known to show PDA from time to time, including their sweet appearance at the Golden Globes earlier this year.
These Are the Best 8 Concealers, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists
Long nights, early mornings, and festive Summer evenings out can often lead to dark circles and blotchy skin. More often than not, concealer (and coffee) is your very best friend before heading out the door. But it can be pretty disappointing when your makeup coverage only lasts through two hours of your day. It can cake off or fade, exasperating the wrinkles or under-eye bags you're trying to hide.
So, we asked some of the top makeup artists in the business which concealers they rely on day in and day out, through countless photo shoots and on some of their favorite celebrity clients. Here are the concealers that they continuously go back to. Hopefully it will help you discover your new favorite magic eraser!
This Is Gisele Bündchen's Favorite Outfit, and It's Easy to See Why
Gisele Bündchen's favorite outfit isn't a dress and heels - it's a combination you and I reach for almost every day. The retired supermodel told Vogue Paris that her go-to look is simply "jeans and a T-shirt." No ifs, ands, or buts. Well, it's no wonder. After some careful digging, we discovered that there's simply no one who can add so much glamour to a casual ensemble.
When we think of Gisele, high-fashion editorials and iconic runway moments might come to mind, but after seeing how darn good she looks in denim, that's about to change. Read on for all the inspiration you need to choose jeans and a tee when you wake up tomorrow.
9 Sensible Tips For Fostering Strong Relationships Between Siblings
While siblings have no say when it comes to being a brother or sister, they can decide if they want to be lifelong friends. The possibility for this special bond to endure often depends on how their relationship was fostered during childhood - which isn't an easy task. Whether your little ones are close in age or have years between them, there's always a potential for squabbling, comparisons, and small resentments to turn into major issues. To help form a strong connection between your children, check out these nine tips for building unbreakable relationships between children.
14 Stylish Costumes Already Approved by Your Favorite Fashion Bloggers
There's no doubt that bloggers are at the forefront of fashion. They sit front row at Fashion Week and dazzle in the trendiest threads, and Halloween is no exception - even in the season of spooky tunes and haunted houses, fashion bloggers rule the style scene. From DIY getups to twists on classic costumes, it's about time you take a lesson in Halloween dressing, blogger edition.
Stuck in a rut on what to wear this coming October? Forget about store-bought confections. All you need is a dose of inspiration from your beloved fashion bloggers. From striped tees to chokers and flirty dresses, you'll be surprised at what you can whip up using the same ingredients in your own wardrobe. And don't be alarmed if your new costume gets snapped by a street style photographer or two - that's just a part of the blogger lifestyle, after all.
The Ultimate Guide to Fall's Hottest Denim Trends
This Fall, the huge selection of denim silhouettes may include the best styles you've seen in a while. From the tried-and-true favorites to the runway styles on the rise, the washes and treatments are next level and all so very lust-worthy. Set your sights on a new pair with a style and fit that hugs you in all the right places.
Canadian peacekeepers feeling 'helpless' to act could face PTSD
Peacekeeping comes with its own set of mental health challenges for soldiers, who must face the frustrating rules of engagement that may limit the actions they can take, as was the case in Rwanda.
Canadian peacekeepers feeling 'helpless' to act could face PTSD
Peacekeeping comes with its own set of mental health challenges for soldiers, who must face the frustrating rules of engagement that may limit the actions they can take, as was the case in Rwanda.
Hold Up - Is the Barre Tuck Actually Bad for You?
More isn't always better, so how do we know when we've had it with the tuck? Our friends at Shape break down the infamous position from your favorite cardio barre classes.
If you've ever been to a barre class, you know that it's all about the barre tuck. Your instructor reminds you in every position, during every rep, to make sure your booty isn't sticking out, but perfectly scooped under. (This fitness fad is ballerina-inspired, not Beyonce-inspired, after all.) You secretly envy and admire that one girl in class who is clearly a barre pro - the instructor compliments her on maintaining her tuck at least once or twice per class. (Do this at-home barre workout to perfect your moves even when you can't make it to class.)
While striving for the perfectly maintained tuck might seem like the ultimate #barregoals, there's something you should know. The barre tuck, or what it has turned into, might actually be bad for you.
What the Tuck?
It all comes down to alignment, says Karli Taylor, founder and creator of BarreFlow and CPT and creative exercise specialist. The OG tuck comes (like barre) straight from ballet; it's all about getting shoulders, hips, heels and toes all aligned.
"The barre tuck is actually just a way to get a neutral pelvis," says Taylor. "When you think about it, if you just stand up on your toes, your body leans forward. So to prevent that, you have to bend your knees. And to prevent your shoulders from going way in front of your knees, you have to tuck your tailbone under. So that brings you back to square one, back to neutral."
But, the fitness industry's "more is better" mentality has instructors and participants over-tucking past the neutral pelvis and creating a posterior pelvic tilt, which is when problems start to arise, says Taylor.
Why is That So Bad?
Most of us naturally have an anterior pelvic tilt (read: your butt is sticking out and back is arched), she says. This comes from long hours of sitting, and the fact that we generally use the muscles on the front of our body more than those on the back (think: we walk, run, cycle, etc. going forward).
When you force your body into a posterior pelvic tilt, you're putting pressure on the discs in your back from another direction, creating joint instability in your lumbar spine and sacroiliac (SI) joint, says Taylor. This puts you at risk for sciatica (chronic lower back pain), herniated or bulging disks in the lumbar spine, leg and foot numbness, hamstrings cramps and tightening, and kyphosis (a rounding in the upper back to compensate). ( Try this barre workout to test your tuck and improve your balance.)
"Inherently, there's nothing wrong with the barre tuck," she says. "But more isn't better. You want to bring your pelvis to a neutral position - you don't want to push your hips forward so you look like Steve Urkel."
Red flags: you feel any sort of lower back pain, especially on the sides of your spine where the SI joint is located (between your lower back and tailbone), you feel numbness in your leg, or cramping in your abdominal muscles.
So How Do You Tuck the Right Way?
Think about your pelvis like a bucket of water, says Taylor. Put your hands on your hips - that's the mouth of the bucket. If you stick your butt out and arch your back, you'll create an anterior pelvic tilt, and water would be spilling out of the front of the bucket. If you really tuck your hips and pull your tailbone under, you'll create a posterior pelvic tilt, and water would be spilling out of the back of the bucket. A neutral spine and pelvic tilt will keep the water right in its place.
A trick for getting into that correct tilt is as simple as thinking about pulling your belly button in, then up under your ribcage - but don't let it change your breathing. Perform this drill while talking and see if it changes your voice at all (it shouldn't).
"Usually when you say 'pull in your core,' people are going to suck in and hold their breath, like they're bracing their stomach to take a punch," she says. "And that's not what this should be. Pulling the belly button in and up is what's going to engage the transverse abdominus, which is your 'underneath' ab muscles, and that's what's going to bring your pelvis back to neutral."
And BTW, the tuck is not like a crunch or an ab workout. Try it right now; scoop your hips under and pull your abs in. Can you feel the bottom of your abdominal muscles getting all scrunched in at the bottom?
"It's not actually working that muscle," says Taylor. "You're just putting it in a compromised position. Some people actually pull muscles in their lower abdomen area because they're tucking too much."
You're Thinking: I've Been Barre Tucking Like That Forever, and I'm Fine.
Doing a barre tuck wrong won't make you spontaneously combust or crumble into a million pieces on the floor. Because it's an overuse injury, it could take a long time of improper form to show up - but the results aren't pretty, says Taylor.
"Barre has been popular for a couple of years, so now is when you're going to see these injuries," she says. "A tuck injury will probably not be an acute injury where someone hurts themselves on the spot - it's like any overuse injury. For example, if you're running with poor form, you may be able to do it for five years and suddenly you have plantar fasciitis or a stress fracture. Over time, these little things get worse.
We aren't hating on barre - after all, it can be great for toning and lengthening all those muscles. But, like any workout, you need to do it right. So double check your tuck before the next time you hit the barre.
More stories from Shape:
Syrian boy excited for school, but mom worried over lingering impact of war
As Syrian refugee families who arrived in Canada in recent months prepare to send their children to their first day of school, educators with extensive multicultural experience offer advice on how to make them feel welcome and safe.
Read this before you barbecue: The Marketplace consumer cheat sheet
Miss something this week? Don't panic. CBC's Marketplace rounds up the consumer and health news you need.
Syrian boy excited for school, but mom worried over lingering impact of war
As Syrian refugee families who arrived in Canada in recent months prepare to send their children to their first day of school, educators with extensive multicultural experience offer advice on how to make them feel welcome and safe.
Read this before you barbecue: The Marketplace consumer cheat sheet
Miss something this week? Don't panic. CBC's Marketplace rounds up the consumer and health news you need.
Hold Up - Is the Barre Tuck Actually Bad for You?
More isn't always better, so how do we know when we've had it with the tuck? Our friends at Shape break down the infamous position from your favorite cardio barre classes.
If you've ever been to a barre class, you know that it's all about the barre tuck. Your instructor reminds you in every position, during every rep, to make sure your booty isn't sticking out, but perfectly scooped under. (This fitness fad is ballerina-inspired, not Beyonce-inspired, after all.) You secretly envy and admire that one girl in class who is clearly a barre pro - the instructor compliments her on maintaining her tuck at least once or twice per class. (Do this at-home barre workout to perfect your moves even when you can't make it to class.)
While striving for the perfectly maintained tuck might seem like the ultimate #barregoals, there's something you should know. The barre tuck, or what it has turned into, might actually be bad for you.
What the Tuck?
It all comes down to alignment, says Karli Taylor, founder and creator of BarreFlow and CPT and creative exercise specialist. The OG tuck comes (like barre) straight from ballet; it's all about getting shoulders, hips, heels and toes all aligned.
"The barre tuck is actually just a way to get a neutral pelvis," says Taylor. "When you think about it, if you just stand up on your toes, your body leans forward. So to prevent that, you have to bend your knees. And to prevent your shoulders from going way in front of your knees, you have to tuck your tailbone under. So that brings you back to square one, back to neutral."
But, the fitness industry's "more is better" mentality has instructors and participants over-tucking past the neutral pelvis and creating a posterior pelvic tilt, which is when problems start to arise, says Taylor.
Why is That So Bad?
Most of us naturally have an anterior pelvic tilt (read: your butt is sticking out and back is arched), she says. This comes from long hours of sitting, and the fact that we generally use the muscles on the front of our body more than those on the back (think: we walk, run, cycle, etc. going forward).
When you force your body into a posterior pelvic tilt, you're putting pressure on the discs in your back from another direction, creating joint instability in your lumbar spine and sacroiliac (SI) joint, says Taylor. This puts you at risk for sciatica (chronic lower back pain), herniated or bulging disks in the lumbar spine, leg and foot numbness, hamstrings cramps and tightening, and kyphosis (a rounding in the upper back to compensate). ( Try this barre workout to test your tuck and improve your balance.)
"Inherently, there's nothing wrong with the barre tuck," she says. "But more isn't better. You want to bring your pelvis to a neutral position - you don't want to push your hips forward so you look like Steve Urkel."
Red flags: you feel any sort of lower back pain, especially on the sides of your spine where the SI joint is located (between your lower back and tailbone), you feel numbness in your leg, or cramping in your abdominal muscles.
So How Do You Tuck the Right Way?
Think about your pelvis like a bucket of water, says Taylor. Put your hands on your hips - that's the mouth of the bucket. If you stick your butt out and arch your back, you'll create an anterior pelvic tilt, and water would be spilling out of the front of the bucket. If you really tuck your hips and pull your tailbone under, you'll create a posterior pelvic tilt, and water would be spilling out of the back of the bucket. A neutral spine and pelvic tilt will keep the water right in its place.
A trick for getting into that correct tilt is as simple as thinking about pulling your belly button in, then up under your ribcage - but don't let it change your breathing. Perform this drill while talking and see if it changes your voice at all (it shouldn't).
"Usually when you say 'pull in your core,' people are going to suck in and hold their breath, like they're bracing their stomach to take a punch," she says. "And that's not what this should be. Pulling the belly button in and up is what's going to engage the transverse abdominus, which is your 'underneath' ab muscles, and that's what's going to bring your pelvis back to neutral."
And BTW, the tuck is not like a crunch or an ab workout. Try it right now; scoop your hips under and pull your abs in. Can you feel the bottom of your abdominal muscles getting all scrunched in at the bottom?
"It's not actually working that muscle," says Taylor. "You're just putting it in a compromised position. Some people actually pull muscles in their lower abdomen area because they're tucking too much."
You're Thinking: I've Been Barre Tucking Like That Forever, and I'm Fine.
Doing a barre tuck wrong won't make you spontaneously combust or crumble into a million pieces on the floor. Because it's an overuse injury, it could take a long time of improper form to show up - but the results aren't pretty, says Taylor.
"Barre has been popular for a couple of years, so now is when you're going to see these injuries," she says. "A tuck injury will probably not be an acute injury where someone hurts themselves on the spot - it's like any overuse injury. For example, if you're running with poor form, you may be able to do it for five years and suddenly you have plantar fasciitis or a stress fracture. Over time, these little things get worse.
We aren't hating on barre - after all, it can be great for toning and lengthening all those muscles. But, like any workout, you need to do it right. So double check your tuck before the next time you hit the barre.
More stories from Shape:
Gisele Bündchen Just Set a Record No Model Ever Has Before
When it comes to the world's most renowned supermodels, we don't love to talk numbers. After all, each girl is making waves in her own right, taking the catwalk or posing for campaigns we'll never forget. But every year, Forbes releases a list of the highest-paid models in the industry, and there are facts impossible to ignore.
Take Gisele Bündchen, for example, who's officially retired but has continued to top the list since 2002. (Her appearance at the Olympics may be her last strut down the runway.) Or Kendall Jenner, who's managed to double her earnings since 2015 and meet her friend Karlie Kloss at spot three. Altogether, these ladies made a whopping $154 million, to which we'll say: there's nothing like a little teamwork. Read on for the official countdown.
How to Cut Up a Watermelon, in Pictures
It's tempting to purchase watermelon already peeled and cubed, but we'd urge you not to. Not only is precubed watermelon more expensive, but it's also prone to having a mealy, mushy texture. (Once cut up, watermelon has a relatively short shelf fridge life.) Instead, follow these simple step-by-step instructions and do it yourself.
Kate Middleton Wore the 1 Piece We Had Yet to See on Her – and Now We Can't Forget About It
Kate Middleton's wardrobe is full of classic pieces she can wear again and again, so it's never a surprise to see her in similar looks. But just because she likes to keep a few pieces in rotation doesn't mean she won't try something new. During her visit to the Eden Project in Cornwall, the Duchess pulled a very bold style move with a pair of printed blue trousers from Gap. The geometric design was not an accidental choice as the colors matched her navy Smythe blazer and she even coordinated with Prince William for effect. She kept the rest of her look neutral with beige wedges and a cream sweater.
Now if you're thinking, "I need a pair of pants like that for Fall," we're right with you. This one piece can instantly transform the most basic of looks and thankfully, you can shop similar options below. Read on to see how Kate styled her pants and you can bet the Queen would have approved of this outfit.
48 Photos of Blue Ivy Carter That Are Fit For a Scrapbook
Ever since Blue Ivy Carter came into the world in 2012, Beyoncé has been pretty shy about showing her daughter's face. In the first two years of Blue's life, we mostly saw the back of her head, but over time, everything changed. After Blue took the stage with Bey and Jay Z at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards, we started to see that sweet little face more and more. More recently, Bey has blessed us with a cute picture of Blue Ivy on the football field at the Super Bowl, some lovely Hawaiian vacation shots, and an adorable red carpet moment at the 2016 VMAs.
Smoky Gray Ombré Hair Is the "It" Hair Dye to Try for Fall
Two hot hair colors - smoky lilac and gray - have been combined to create Fall's hottest hue: smoky gray ombré. Women on Instagram are already showing off this fresh shade which features a subtle or defined gray fade. And there are endless unique ways to interpret it - be it a dark-to-light version or vice versa. Keep reading to see more images, and bring one to your stylist if you feel bold enough to rock it!
dimanche 4 septembre 2016
Does This Monkey Resemble Lord Voldemort? The Internet Seems to Think So
A monkey recently born at the UK's Paignton Zoo has garnered a lot of attention for its pretty uncanny resemblance to Lord Voldemort.
According to The Mirror, the baby monkey is the first ever to be delivered via a C-section. The zoo's head of veterinary services, Ghislaine Sayers, said, "We have only done three C-sections here in the last 16 years. Jo, our surgeon on this occasion, has performed them on dogs, cats, cows and sheep before – but never a primate."
So while the monkey was brought into this earth in a miraculous manner, it also looks like it could have ties to the dark arts . . . and people on Twitter have plenty of feelings about it. Since the monkey's birth, the hashtag #VoldemortMonkey is full of hilarious reactions.
This baby monkey that looks like Voldemort is definitely going to give me nightmares this eve. @glenscottuk http://pic.twitter.com/F47kwqTDJo
- kmfm - Radio In Kent (@kmfmofficial) August 30, 2016
"You're a fool, Harry Potter, and you will lose everything" - #VoldemortMonkey http://pic.twitter.com/MjVLSpeNGu
- Maximilien (@DaneBossey) August 31, 2016
Aww don't be mean to #VoldemortMonkey, he's cute!
- ¤《°Jacksøn (weeb)°》¤ (@DatsonBatson) August 31, 2016
25 Times Michelle Obama's Casual Outfit Proved She's the Chillest First Lady Ever
There have been plenty of events where Michelle Obama dazzled in designer gowns, jeweled earrings, and metallic heels. But just as she pulls off fancy and fierce, the FLOTUS also rocks cool and casual, skipping patterned dresses for leggings, jeans, and, on occasion, sweatshirts. Scroll through to see a handful of times Michelle's outfit was way more comfy than polished, from her gardening gear to bike-riding looks. Then check out Kate Middleton following suit, wearing outfits the queen probably wouldn't approve of.
The Most Powerful Thing You Can Say to Another Mom
A few weeks ago, one of my dearest friends lost her 21-month-old daughter forever when the sweet baby girl died unexpectedly and suddenly. My friend and I live on opposite sides of the country, so I took a trip to visit her for this past weekend. Admittedly, I was a nervous wreck about what I was going to say to her and her husband. How was I going to find the words to comfort them? How would I avoid saying the wrong things? I wanted to find perfect words, and, as I am a writer, words happen to be one of the few ways I truly know how to express myself.
Except I was at a complete loss over her loss. Having two healthy children at home, I felt I couldn't truly relate to her pain, so how on earth was I going to be able to comfort her during a situation that I have very little experience in? Armed with a pocket full of Bible verses and a slough of rehearsed things to say, I walked into her home and could never in a million years have foreseen the life-altering and powerful words that would be spoken between us during our time together. Except the words came from her, to me.
From her. To me.
That's right. My friend, who at this point is proving to be one of the strongest people I know, said something during her time of grief that will forever hold a spot in my heart. It was a phrase so simple, yet it has hit a chord deep inside of me. As she was describing the events leading up to the death of her daughter, she tried to express to me her complete heartbreak as she held her sweet child in the hospital during the minutes and hours after she died. Describing the time only as her worst nightmare, she said to me with tears rolling down her face, "You're a mom, you know."
You're a mom, you know.
This phrase took my breath away - as well as any composure that I had managed to keep together up until then. Because it was at that point, with that phrase, that I was able to start to understand the magnitude of her sorrow. Sure, I was completely heartbroken for her before, as death is difficult for anyone. But I'll admit that I didn't fully understand my role as her friend or as a fellow mom. See, all this time I had been looking in the wrong places for the perfect thing to say to her while I should have just looked at our simplest bond: motherhood. And while I have not experienced the pain that comes along with losing a child, I do understand the joy that she once experienced from holding her child. And to lose that? There are no words
Except maybe "I'm a mom, I know."
Losing a child is every mom's worst fear - no matter who you are or what kind of mom you choose to be. In the days since, I've been keeping this simple thought in mind when relating myself to other mommies. Sure, we all have our different ways of mothering and raising our families, but we do have one thing in common: our hearts are directly connected to our children. It makes the whole mommy wars thing seem, well, totally ridiculous.
You're a mom, you know.
So as I went with my own mom, who has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, to her radiation treatment, I glanced over at the young mother of a small boy in the waiting room. He was maybe 3 years old (though it's hard to tell because he was so tiny). He sported a colorful Superman cape and a bland hospital mask as he sat cradled in his mom's arms. She said something quietly to him. My heart stopped. This mom ached for that mom. And the tears started to fall from my eyes despite me not knowing her one bit. Despite me only sitting in the waiting room for maybe 30 seconds. Despite my own mom sitting next to me about to have her own radiation treatment. This is crazy, I thought. I don't even know this woman.
But what I do know is that I'm a mom.
And later I was getting dinner at a takeout restaurant, and one of the employees was on the phone in the restroom. She was struggling to find a babysitter for her child while she finished her late shift. She was frantic. She was upset. She was mad. My heart skipped another beat, and the tears welled up in my eyes once again.
I know, I'm a mom.
As I went back to my mom's house, heartbroken over my friend's loss, my mother was trying to comfort me. Asking if I was OK. Me! She was the one going through radiation, I should be comforting her. And then it dawned on me as to why she was so worried about how I was doing.
She knows, she's a mom.
And on the plane on the ride home there was a new mom standing with her infant son nearly the whole four-and-a-half-hour flight because if she attempted to sit down, he wailed. She looked exhausted and frustrated. She checked her watch frequently, but she also kept on task all while kissing on his little bald head.
I know, I'm a mom.
See, it's a thread that unites us all. Helicopter moms. Free-range moms. Breastfeeding moms. Formula-feeding moms. Rich moms. Poor moms. Moms of sick kids. Moms of healthy kids. Moms. The crazy, heart-stopping love that we feel for our children runs deep through each and every one of us as moms.
And this knowledge is painful at times. It's why every sappy commercial brings us to tears. It's why we can't watch the news. It's why we get in the car and cry after we drop our kids off to their first day of school. It's why food allergies are terrifying. It's why our hearts ache when we hear about miscarriage or fertility problems. It's why we are up at night worrying about our teens. It's why the thought of our children eventually leaving the nest makes us weep into our coffee. It's why the death of another mother's child is so utterly heartbreaking . . .
It's also why we should always provide a blanket of support to all fellow moms. Not only to those who are suffering through the unimaginable pain of losing a child, but also to those mamas going through plain ol' rough times . . . and even those moms who are just having one of those days. Hug her, and if you are struggling to find the right words, all you may really need to say is, "I know, I'm a mom."
But you probably already know this. After all, you're a mom.
Breakup to Makeup: 27 On-Again, Off-Again Celebrity Couples
Sometimes giving it a second chance is worth a shot, and other times, the third time may not be the charm. While some celebrity couples, such as Kate Middleton and Prince William, have proven that a break is necessary to strengthen a relationship, others, like Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber, probably should have made a clean break the first time around. From Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth, we're taking a look at 25 celebrity couples who've been on and off again so much you'll feel like you're riding a roller coaster.
The Twist at the End of Morgan Expertly Turns a Tired Horror Trope on Its Head
Warning: spoilers ahead!
In Morgan, the female-dominated sci-fi horror flick hit theaters on Sept. 2, Kate Mara's character eventually sustains wounds that would render any average human being incapacitated at best. Despite a gaping, bloody wound caving in her abdomen, she's eventually, miraculously able to overcome the film's startlingly real-looking artificial human (Anya Taylor-Joy) without bleeding out, and lives to see another day. This annoying trope isn't anything new - there comes a certain point in every horror or action movie where the hero receives a stab wound to the gut or a few bullets here and there, but manages to brush them off as if nothing had happened. Though brilliantly cast, Morgan certainly doesn't break any new ground with its "scientists create monster, monster goes rogue" storyline in the way that last year's Ex Machina did. What it does do, however, is give an otherwise run-of-the-mill cliché a clever spin.
The Setup:
Mara plays Lee Weathers, a risk-assessment specialist from a company that funds research projects devoted to creating artificial human beings. They dispatch her to the remote location where one of the company's most promising projects, a human hybrid called Morgan, has violently lashed out at one of the scientists. Lee quickly realizes that Morgan - with her enhanced intelligence and strength - is too unpredictable and must be terminated. Morgan doesn't take kindly to this, and stages a breakout that involves kidnapping her favorite handler and violently murdering the rest of them. It becomes clear that Lee, with her extensive martial arts abilities, is the only one who can physically take Morgan on (for whatever reason, since Mara is a tiny wisp of a human). She suffers punch after punch and what should have been a crippling fall without slowing down whatsoever (and does it all in heels, à la Bryce Dallas Howard in Jurassic World).
The Twist:
Morgan and Lee have a final showdown in the woods, which involves both of their bodies being bashed into rocks and each others' fists. Finally, Morgan finishes it by impaling Lee on a branch sticking out of a fallen tree. The wound is severe, and Lee is clearly down for the count. Morgan leaves her to bleed out, only for Lee to miraculously revive, catch up to Morgan, and drown her in a nearby lake. Lee proceeds to shoot the rest of the surviving handlers, getting rid of any witnesses to what happened. Flash forward a little bit, and some executives at the company that is responsible for funding Morgan's creation are sitting in a conference room while calmly discussing what happened. It's then revealed that Lee is actually an earlier prototype of the human hybrid that Morgan was. She's been an artificial human all along, and is "perfect."
The big twist in Morgan isn't a huge shock - as soon as Lee is able to effortlessly scale a plain cement wall, and then survives the fall from a second-floor balcony with ease about three quarters of the way through the film, it's clear something is up. Still, it's a creative way to lend credence to the apparent indestructible physicality of her character instead of simply shrugging it off. Add in the movie's beautifully shot sequences and exceptional performances from Mara, Taylor-Joy, and Paul Giamatti (as an ill-tempered, ill-fated psychologist sent to evaluate Morgan), and it easily earns the title of one of the better horror movies of 2016.
20 Beyoncé Facts Only a Real Beyhive Member Would Know
In order to consider yourself a Beyoncé fan, there are an important set of skills that you need to possess and specific trivia facts that should be stored in your memory. There are some things about Beyoncé that only her biggest fans and supporters will know and some emotions that only those truly obsessed with Queen Bey will feel. Of course you know that Beyoncé's favorite number is four - but do you know why? If you're looking to gain entry into the Beyhive or just freshen up on your facts, keep reading for the 20 things you need to know about Beyoncé.
14 Pictures of Chris Hemsworth and His Kids That Might Make Your Heart Explode
Chris Hemsworth has shared some ridiculously cute moments with his kids over the past few years. His wife, Elsa Pataky, regularly posts sweet family photos on social media, and now that Chris has joined Instagram, he's been giving fans a glimpse into their family life too. The couple has a 4-year-old daughter, India Rose, and they welcomed twin boys, Tristan and Sasha, in March 2014. In June 2015, all eyes were on India Rose when she met Prince William and Prince Harry, and she looked adorably shy during their introduction.
You Can Now Actually Feel Like a Jedi With This Amazing New Gadget
Every Star Wars fan has at least once in their life quoted or made some joke about wishing they could control objects with the Force. That dream became a slight reality when Sphero released a BB-8 droid last year that could move around - all through a smartphone app. Now, you get to actually control BB-8 as if you were a Jedi (or Sith) with the release of the Force Band, a bracelet that dictates the moves of BB-8 with your hand movements.
What's the Force Band?
Are you wondering if you read that right? You did. Yes, Sphero actually topped itself and made the coolest Star Wars toy ever - again. With the Force Band, you can use "the Force" to push, pull, and control BB-8. You can make it roll across the room, move it to the right, and even beckon it back to you.
And that's just Droid Control mode. The device has five total modes: Droid Control, Force Training, Combat Training, Force Awareness, or Robot Control. The first controls BB-8. Force Training uses BB-8 to teach you certain moves to become a "Master Jedi Knight." In Combat Training mode, you can set certain sounds to your Force Band, like a lightsaber or TIE fighter, and have an imaginary battle or fight. With Force Awareness, you can collect "Holocrons" around you. Think of it is as Pokémon Go, except you don't need to keep the app open or do anything to get a Holocron.
Check out photos of both BB-8 and the Force Band ahead, as well GIFs of it in action. This won't be the last time you see it; it'll definitely be at the top of everyone's holiday wishlist this year.
20 Chicken Recipes That Take Summer Dinners to New Heights
Give your chicken a summertime spin with these recipes that go beyond grilling. From caprese-like tomato, basil, and mozzarella chicken to new spins on chicken salad, these recipes will get you through the warm months and get you out of your chicken-cooking rut.
7 Sugar Skull Makeup Tutorials For Día de los Muertos, Straight From Mexican Beauty Bloggers
When you think of Día de los Muertos, chances are you think of one major symbol: the sugar skull.
It's a vibrant piece of Mexican culture representative of the traditional holiday, and as you start to plan all the ways you'll honor your roots during this year's celebration, why not incorporate La Catrina-inspired skeletal makeup? If you're unsure where to start or how to create the perfect look, keep reading to watch some of the most popular Mexican beauty bloggers walk you through their best sugar skull tutorials. Once you've reached pro status, get inspired by ways you can add a little Day of the Dead flair to your manicure.
Justin Bieber Goes For Another Shirtless Hike Before Hitting the Road Again
Days after going for a run in LA, Justin Bieber is at it again with another shirtless jog. On Saturday, the "Purpose" singer showed off his impressive physique as he hiked in Runyon Canyon. Justin is currently getting ready to hit the road again for his Purpose tour, and his first stop will be in Iceland. Earlier in the week, he appeared on BBC's Radio 1 Live Lounge and delivered an acoustic performance of his recent hits, including "Cold Water." In addition, Justin also covered Tupac Shakur's "Thug Mansion" and Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car," and absolutely killed it.
A Company's Marvel- and DC-Inspired Formalwear Is Stylish Enough to Save the Day
Geek fashion is on the rise and it's no longer only a woman's domain. A Halloween costume company is creating an exclusive line of Marvel and DC formalwear for men that feature characters like the Joker and the Hulk.
Each of the suits looks "normal" until you peer a little closer. There are hints by the cuff or in the lining of the suit jacket that show off Marvel and DC superheroes and villains. Anyone can preorder a suit beginning Aug. 24 with a ship date sometime in November. The prices for the suit range from $250 to $350 and there's even a kids line as well.
Peek ahead at the collection and stay tuned for more details.
We See Chrissy Teigen's Amazing Dress, But We're More Focused on Her Diaper Bag
Mostly everything about Chrissy Teigen's latest look fits into her signature style: that sexy slip of bra up top, those strappy heels, and a printed dress that turns heads. But while a few months ago she'd have opted for a clutch or flashy satchel, these days, Chrissy's toting her nylon Prada diaper bag.
The designer hardware is a nod to the supermodel's love of fashion, but it's also a heartwarming update to her look. Chrissy's latest outfits are proof that working mamas can maintain their uniform through the seasons, while swinging a baby bag, pushing a carriage, and hey, maybe even walking in stilettos. Read on for all the convincing you need, then shop Chrissy's exact pouch, along with similar designs.
Articles
