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 24 septembre 2016
How 1 Woman Transformed Her Diet in Order to Save Her Life
In 2007, a mere two months after graduating from college and marrying my high school sweetheart, I found myself in the emergency room suffering from unbearable pain in my abdomen, heavy bleeding, and a slew of other digestive complications. Until then, I had been a perfectly healthy young woman, with no family history of digestive disorders and only the occasional upset stomach as a child. The hospital discharged me without a diagnosis and prescribed medication that ultimately intensified my symptoms.
A few agonizing weeks, multiple specialists, and one lengthy hospital admittance later, I was finally given a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis - an incurable autoimmune disease similar to Crohn's disease. The prospect of living the rest of my life, through careers, motherhood, and grandchildren, with an irreversible illness was an extremely disheartening prognosis and left me feeling hopeless and alone. I had always dreamt of being a wife and a mom, and those dreams seemed to be crashing down around me. I was ushered out of the hospital with very little information as to what the disease was, how it was caused, the symptoms, or the forms of relief. I was not aware of the inexplicable episodes that were to come, which I now know as flare-ups. I also was not aware of the drastic side effects that the medications would begin to cause.
About six months later, while on a humanitarian trip with my husband, I found myself in a hospital room in Kampala, Uganda, pleading for my life as I lay precariously near death. I was racked with debilitating pain that forced me into a wheelchair, became severely anemic, and dropped 20 pounds in 10 days. I was administered a daily dose of intravenous steroids, which provoked more side effects than the symptoms they were intended to mitigate. After a weeklong stay in the two-room hospital, the doctors concluded that the 36-hour journey back to the US for a blood transfusion was imperative.
That episode was the first of many that landed me in hospitals over and over again and launched me into a world of harsh drug therapies that only exacerbated my condition. When my oldest son was just nine months old, I had an extreme flare-up that caused me to be hospitalized for 14 days and require multiple blood transfusions, and it debilitated me for nearly four months. It was the darkest point of my life thus far and still conjures a flood of emotion when I recall it. My son was not allowed to visit me in the hospital, and there were many times when I was at home in bed that I had to turn him away because I was too sick or exhausted to entertain him.
We all have a revelatory moment in our lives right before committing to an extreme lifestyle alteration. That was my moment, the point in my life when I realized that being incapacitated for months at a time was not an option now that I had a helpless life relying on me to care for him. There was a tiny human being who needed his mother, and during that final hospital stay I made the commitment to always be there for him. Left with a choice between major surgery and lifelong frequent IV treatments with harsh side effects, I began my own research to explore other options, and my diet was the first to change. Although no doctor would suggest, or even support, dietary change as a part of my treatment, I realized that I had to take things into my own hands to achieve real results.
I started working with a naturopath and began eliminating food groups that are often common triggers for some, including all grains, dairy, refined sugar, and legumes, following a plan very similar to the Paleo diet. She also suggested eliminating eggs, nuts, and nightshades for a period of time until I had recovered, and prescribed supplements to replenish the lacking nutrients and heal my gut. After seeing dramatic progress after just 48 hours, I committed to the diet wholeheartedly. It took a couple of years to heal fully, but I can proudly say that I haven't been hospitalized since 2011, have weaned off of the harsh medications, and avoided surgery and immunosuppressants.
It can be hard at times to stick to it, but what keeps me pressing onward is the knowledge that the Paleo diet allowed for such a drastic personal health transformation and how much it is benefiting those that follow it. Because of this, I dedicate my days to creating delicious comfort foods that can be enjoyed on a restricted diet and, in an attempt to ensure that no one else would have to feel as alone or lost as I did, decided to share my story and recipes on my blog, Against All Grain, and in my cookbooks Against All Grain and Meals Made Simple.
A Paleo diet has not only given me back my health, but it's allowed me to be present as a mom and wife, and given me the opportunity to impact the hundreds of thousands of people who have bought my books and read my blog. I never would have imagined, while lying in countless hospital beds, that everything I went through could be used to help bring hope to so many people. As unbearable as it was, Ryan and I both agree now that we would not change any of it for the world. To be useful in such an impactful way, and out of such misfortune, is one of the most rewarding experiences I will ever have.
For a more in-depth look at my entire journey to health, visit my blog, Against All Grain.
11 Slang Words You Won’t Believe Are in the Dictionary Now
The Oxford English Dictionary just ushered in a list of new words that reflect the changing times, words like moobs, jagoff, and resting b*tch face. This year's additions are pretty similar to last year's in that both batches are colloquial and ridiculous. Look ahead to see the surprising words that were chosen and check out the complete list.
How to Transform 15 Grocery Staples Into 10 Quick Meals
Cook dinner more often? Challenge accepted. If you're like me, you're all too familiar with the feeling of walking in the door exhausted after a long day and wanting to eat dinner immediately. If my pantry and fridge are bare, there's a good chance I'm going to resort to takeout or garbage (aka popcorn and wine), but if I have a few of these grocery staples on hand, I'm on my way to a nourishing meal in 30 minutes or less. I've made it a habit to keep the following groceries stocked in my kitchen so that I can cook a quick and satisfying dinner, which, If I'm being honest, is pasta more often than not (no shame).
- Frozen chicken breasts: Keeping them frozen ensures you don't have to stress about using them before they go bad. Defrost them the morning you plan to cook them.
- Frozen salmon: Because sometimes you need a break from chicken, and frozen salmon is affordable and easy to cook.
- Pasta: The ultimate blank-canvas ingredient.
- Canned staples for protein and flavor: Tomatoes, chickpeas, white beans, capers, and black olives.
- Garlic and lemon: Must haves for essentially everything.
- Fresh greens like spinach or kale: Fresh vegetables you know you'll use up because you can easily sauté them with any dish.
- Eggs: Not just for breakfast!
- Bacon: For carbonara, a weeknight savior.
- White wine: For adding incomparable flavor to pasta and chicken (and for drinking!).
- Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley: Inexpensive additions that go a long way.
With this list in mind, here are 10 easy recipes that I make on a regular basis and that guarantee you'll be able to whip up dinner in no time. Your mission: bookmark these recipes, and stop resorting to takeout on busy weeknights.
Emma Watson's UN Outfit Is Just as Important as Her Speech
Emma Watson has been on a sustainable clothing kick for quite some time. The ambassadress is constantly sharing the details of her outfits, thanks in part to her stylist, Sarah Slutsky. Given Emma's celebrity, the actress can make a difference with just one Instagram, and she regularly posts behind-the-scenes shots that break down her look ahead of an event. She didn't let us down as she headed to campaign for HeForShe at the United Nations in New York.
Emma's outfit was perfectly appropriate for the Fall season, consisting of a turtleneck and demure slit skirt by Zady. The brand's mission is to create quality pieces that last a lifetime. In other words, they won't fall apart or soon go out of style. Plus, the workers who produce the apparel are never mistreated and always reminded of their value.
Just by wearing these simple pieces, Emma sends out a message about power dressing: appearance is half the battle. Exuding confidence on the job comes from feeling good about what you're wearing, knowing where it comes from, and understanding how it's made. Read on to see how Emma accessorized her winning ensemble with Proenza Schouler shoes and delicate silver jewels, then shop her Zady set now.
10 Things to Know Before Being Induced
As moms-to-be, we assume that our babies will make their debuts when they are good and ready. So many women are thrown for a loop when the doctor announces it's time for the wee one to arrive via induction. Whether the procedure is scheduled because the infant is overdue or based on the amniotic fluid levels, there are a few things mothers should know about being induced. Here's what I learned after being induced twice.
vendredi 23 septembre 2016
18 Classic Stir-Fries Everyone Should Learn How to Make
Learning how to make classic stir-fries means you don't have to resort to takeout every time a craving strikes. You might be surprised by how easy beef and broccoli, chicken lo mein, shrimp pad Thai, and more restaurant favorites are to cook at home. Ditch the delivery fee and stay in with these 18 stir-fry recipes everyone should learn how to make.
Jennifer Aniston Keeps a Low Profile as She Pops Up in NYC
Jennifer Aniston kept things casual while arriving in NYC on Thursday night. The actress was spotted in a wide-brimmed hat, jeans, and a bomber jacket while making her way to an apartment building and clutching what appeared to be a script. We saw Jen on the red carpet just last weekend when she stepped out for the premiere of the new animated film Storks and will likely see a lot more of her out and about when she begins promoting the comedy Office Christmas Party later this year.
Jennifer unfortunately became the subject of headlines and internet memes this week after it was announced that her ex-husband, Brad Pitt, is getting a divorce from Angelina Jolie. While Jen and Brad haven't been together for over a decade - and we're guessing that Jen would very much like to be excluded from this narrative - it wasn't long before people speculated about how she might be "reacting" to the split news. Jen's best friend Chelsea Handler addressed the breakup on her Netflix show with a statement seemingly defending her friend, saying that Brad "married a f*cking lunatic."
39 Shirtless TV Moments From 2016 That You Need to See
This year has already been filled with some sexy shirtless moments on TV. Sam Heughan cozied up to Caitriona Balfe on Outlander, Arjun Gupta bared his chest in The Magicians, and Jake McLaughlin got us all riled up with his good looks in Quantico. Even if you missed these episodes when they aired, don't fret, because we've rounded them all up here! Keep scrolling for all of the best shirtless moments, so far, and be sure to come back as more are added.
The Doctor-Approved Secret to Clearing Your Hormonal Acne That Actually Works
When I tell you how I finally cleared up my hormonal acne, it is going to sound so painstakingly obvious that it might even seem…annoying. To make a long story short: I met with a doctor who helped me balance my hormones and improve my gut health, and my skin has never looked better.
At the start of Spring, I booked an appointment with Dr. Keith Berkowitz, an MD (internist) located in NYC who worked with Dr. Robert C Atkins (as in the Atkins diet) for six years and now specializes in how eating affects health. He gave me a glucose test, took my blood, analyzed the lab results, and diagnosed me with Reactive Hypoglycemia. The latter means, I process sugar unusually quickly, so I can't eat much of it (even fruit!). I learned I had had high testosterone levels and was iodine deficient.
According to the American Thyroid Association, Iodine is an element (not made by the body) needed for the production for the thryoid hormone. You get iodine from your diet and various foods, and if you do not have enough of it, you can't make the thyroid hormone, which regulates your metabolism as well as heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance.
I have not changed my skin care routine or received any new spa treatments.
"Women today are struggling with increased hormonal imbalance causing estrogen dominance, low levels of progesterone, and high levels of testosterone and DHEA [an endogenous steroid hormone]," Dr. Berkowitz told me via email. "This is complicated by the overall decrease in hormone levels as we age. It leads to women having dull, dry skin; a rush of wrinkles; increased pigmentation; and increased acne."
So I began on a journey to balance out what was going on internally by changing my diet and taking supplements. When it came to eating, I had previously spent a year living off of morning smoothies and eliminating gluten and dairy. Though it was technically "healthy," I was eating way too much fruit and spiking my blood sugar.
Dr. Berkowitz tweaked my diet so that I was eating more balanced, portion controlled meals and snacks that includes carbohydrates (including vegetables and fruits) with high-fiber foods and and lean protein or healthy fats (like avocado). "It is important that you eat three meals and one snack every day," he explained of his general diet philosophy. "Eating balanced meals will minimize fluctuations in blood sugar and increases in insulin levels."
He immediately added bread back into my regime, but only low-carb Alvarado Street Bakery Sprouted Flax Seed Bread), and I can have just one piece at a time to ensure I am not carb-loading. I was permitted low-lactose dairy, such as goat cheese since it is a great source of protein. In addition, I eat a lot of organic chicken and salmon, eggs, salads dressed with olive oil and lemon (rather than sugary dressing), and low-carb Wasa crackers topped with hummus and avocado. My smoothies were tweaked: instead of blending in four fruits, I can have one (usually low-sugar, antioxidant-rich berries). Any time I do eat fruit, I can have half the amount (such as half a pear) and mix it with protein, such as a spoon of almond butter. Eating this way, has stabilized my blood sugar (I no longer get 3 p.m. sugar cravings) and feel less restless, overall.
On the supplements front, I started taking Kelp supplements to help with my iodine deficiency, DIM Plus to give me an estrogen boost, and Theanine, which just helps me relax at night.
I expected to debloat (I did!), and lose a few pounds (check!); but what I did not see coming was how these tweaks would significantly affect my skin. Pre-Dr. Berkowitz I had combination skin, meaning I would occasionally get pimples in places I am greasier (usually my cheeks and chin). And every month a few days before my period, I got a few "lurkers" (below-the-skin pimples) around my chin. These are typically caused by hormones and can't be cured by creams - they have to go away on their own.
After a Summer spent traveling as far as Greece and Prague, wearing tons of gooey sunscreen, and straight-up sweating, I expected to see my usual cluster of whiteheads on my cheeks. I have also waited each month for the arrival of those chin lurkers. But for the past three months, my skin has been completely and totally clear. I have no dryness and no oiliness. The lines on my forehead are naturally smoothing out and the redness around my nose fading. I have not changed my skin care routine or received any new spa treatments.
What had changed was my gut health. "Tiny bacteria in the gut are one of the major control systems in the body," Dr. Berkowitz explained. "These bacteria have a direct role in helping maintain the health of the skin. They help your absorb nutrients needed to protect and repair itself. They protect the integrity of the gut lining. The gut lining helps protect against inflammation (which ages skin), and it protects the skin environmental toxin damage."
He also told me that gut in the bacteria can cause acne, because that area produces something called Substance P. This affects sebum production (the cause of oily skin).
My gut bacteria wasn't all that had been regulated after three months of sticking to Dr. Berkowitz's plan: My hormones tested more balanced, my iodine levels were better, and my glucose more stable.
"The gut lining helps protect against inflammation (which ages skin), and it protects the skin environmental toxin damage."
"Your eating plan led to your hormones being better balanced – lowering DHEA and testosterone – and having better balance with progesterone and estrogen," Dr. Berkowitz told me when I asked how this could have affected my skin. "The lifestyle also leads to lower levels of cortisol [a hormone that regular stress, metabolism, and inflammation] and insulin [the hormone that regulates metabolism and gives your cells energy]." He noted that when these hormones are high, it can cause drier skin and premature aging. This is because there is a connection between stress and the deterioration of cells, and skin is made up of cells.
A hormone imbalance can also cause discoloration of the skin. "Estrogen and progesterone can trigger the melasma, which are brown or light grey patches of pigmentation that most commonly appear on the face," he said. "It usually appears between the ages of 20-50 and is most common in pregnant women or those on a oral contraceptive pill."
In addition, he shared that low estrogen can lead decreased collagen production and more wrinkling of the skin. Low levels of progesterone are associated with decreased skin elasticity. And a deficiency in DHEA is problematic, because it helps control oil production. DHEA also increases collagen production, which you want for youthful-looking skin.
When it comes to testosterone, having too much can lead to acne through an increased sebum production. So that explains why decreasing my testosterone levels eliminated my breakouts.
Though my situation was very specific, others can benefit from getting their blood tested and tweaking in specific ways that make sense for them (as instructed by a professional MD). While we are in no way telling you to run out try a bunch of supplements to balance all of this out (please talk to your doctor first!), regulating your hormones and improving your gut health can directly give you clearer skin with better tone and texture. It happened to me!
If you get the OK from your doctor, here is a list of supplements (from Dr. Berkowitz) and what they do:
• Alpha lipoic acid: helps stop the stiffening of collagen fibers.
• Antioxidants: stops free radical production. For example, vitamins A, C and E helps to better hydrate the skin.
• Hydrolyzed collagen: reduces wrinkles.
• Hyaluronic acid: hydrates skin. (Yes, you can take the popular skin care ingredient as a supplement, as well!)
• Astaxanthin: fights free-radicals and prevent damage from the sun and other environmental toxins.
Here are specific supplements for acne:
• Zinc: helps accelerate the development of new clear skin cells and reduce the inflammatory response to bacteria.
• Probiotic: promotes healthy or good bacteria, and thus decreases the inflammatory response which damages skin.
• Coconut oil: helps replace the protective acid layer that keeps skin healthy and reduces inflammation.
He also shared an anti-inflammatory eating plan:
• Avoid refined carbohydrates, which increase insulin and inflammation.
• Avoid gluten, cow's milk dairy, processed foods, and excessive amounts of omega 6, which are all pro-inflammatory.
• Increase use of spices: turmeric, cinnamon, garlic and parsley, which all have anti-inflammatory effects to help keep the skin health and slowing down the aging process.
When Healthy Eating Becomes an Eating Disorder
Most people have never heard the term "orthorexia." After all, blogger Jordan Younger hadn't heard of the disorder that would change her life just one year ago, when she was a dedicated vegan running plant-based blog The Blonde Vegan.
A year later, we spoke with Younger on how orthorexia has not only become a huge part of her life - but also a huge part of her brand identity.
What is orthorexia, exactly? Defined by Dr. Karin Kratina as "an 'unhealthy obsession' with otherwise healthy eating," orthorexia can cause severe psychological trouble surrounding eating habits - although, as of now, it's not recognized as a clinical diagnoses. In Younger's case, she developed an obsession with healthy eating - one that made Younger ignore her body's signals and ultimately (and ironically) sacrifice her physical and mental health. "Orthorexia was extremely noticeable in my everyday life. It hindered me from being my happy, vibrant, social, balanced, alert self. It held me back in far too many ways," Jordan told us.
After months of insatiable hunger, muscle and bone pain, and lack of energy, Younger discovered orthorexia while searching her symptoms online: "I was searching my symptoms online to see if anyone else experienced the struggles I was dealing with, and orthorexia popped up," she says. "I thought I was late to the game in learning about it, but it turns out I was still one of the early discoverers. It fit the bill for me in every way. I had an obsession with healthy, pure, plant-based food from the earth, and I had developed a fear and intense avoidance of anything that didn't fall under that category."
Receiving a diagnosis and making the decision to transition away from veganism was just step one. After all, veganism was more than a diet to Younger - it was a lifestyle, a career, and a brand. "Coming forward about my eating disorder and my transition from veganism caused me a ton of anxiety. I was terrified about what my audience would think, and I was fearful that I might lose the brand I had worked so hard to build when I knew it was time to bare my soul via this post," she says.
After debating how to sync her vegan brand and career with her now nonvegan lifestyle, she bravely went public with her disorder and the lifestyle changes it required - including changing her brand from The Blonde Vegan to The Balanced Blonde. But making the decision to publicly transition away from veganism wasn't without backlash - Younger received death threats and angry messages, lost followers, and even had friends turn their back on her.
Thankfully, the death threats and angry messages have finally started to settle into the dust (only a year later . . . ), and Younger has emerged as a voice for the serious, but relatively unknown condition orthorexia. Since becoming The Balanced Blonde, she's begun vlogging, working with new brand partnerships, receiving nationwide press, and helping encourage others to learn about orthorexia and find a healthy lifestyle that works for their individual body. "I am so much more comfortable and fulfilled now that I have a platform to express what I truly believe in: balance, listening to our bodies, and setting ourselves free of the labels we so easily allow to bind us," she says.
For more info on POPSUGAR select blogger Jordan Younger's journey, check out her blog The Balanced Blonde and follow her on Instagram.
When Healthy Eating Becomes an Eating Disorder
Most people have never heard the term "orthorexia." After all, blogger Jordan Younger hadn't heard of the disorder that would change her life just one year ago, when she was a dedicated vegan running plant-based blog The Blonde Vegan.
A year later, we spoke with Younger on how orthorexia has not only become a huge part of her life - but also a huge part of her brand identity.
What is orthorexia, exactly? Defined by Dr. Karin Kratina as "an 'unhealthy obsession' with otherwise healthy eating," orthorexia can cause severe psychological trouble surrounding eating habits - although, as of now, it's not recognized as a clinical diagnoses. In Younger's case, she developed an obsession with healthy eating - one that made Younger ignore her body's signals and ultimately (and ironically) sacrifice her physical and mental health. "Orthorexia was extremely noticeable in my everyday life. It hindered me from being my happy, vibrant, social, balanced, alert self. It held me back in far too many ways," Jordan told us.
After months of insatiable hunger, muscle and bone pain, and lack of energy, Younger discovered orthorexia while searching her symptoms online: "I was searching my symptoms online to see if anyone else experienced the struggles I was dealing with, and orthorexia popped up," she says. "I thought I was late to the game in learning about it, but it turns out I was still one of the early discoverers. It fit the bill for me in every way. I had an obsession with healthy, pure, plant-based food from the earth, and I had developed a fear and intense avoidance of anything that didn't fall under that category."
Receiving a diagnosis and making the decision to transition away from veganism was just step one. After all, veganism was more than a diet to Younger - it was a lifestyle, a career, and a brand. "Coming forward about my eating disorder and my transition from veganism caused me a ton of anxiety. I was terrified about what my audience would think, and I was fearful that I might lose the brand I had worked so hard to build when I knew it was time to bare my soul via this post," she says.
After debating how to sync her vegan brand and career with her now nonvegan lifestyle, she bravely went public with her disorder and the lifestyle changes it required - including changing her brand from The Blonde Vegan to The Balanced Blonde. But making the decision to publicly transition away from veganism wasn't without backlash - Younger received death threats and angry messages, lost followers, and even had friends turn their back on her.
Thankfully, the death threats and angry messages have finally started to settle into the dust (only a year later . . . ), and Younger has emerged as a voice for the serious, but relatively unknown condition orthorexia. Since becoming The Balanced Blonde, she's begun vlogging, working with new brand partnerships, receiving nationwide press, and helping encourage others to learn about orthorexia and find a healthy lifestyle that works for their individual body. "I am so much more comfortable and fulfilled now that I have a platform to express what I truly believe in: balance, listening to our bodies, and setting ourselves free of the labels we so easily allow to bind us," she says.
For more info on POPSUGAR select blogger Jordan Younger's journey, check out her blog The Balanced Blonde and follow her on Instagram.
Gigi Hadid and Naomi Campbell Just Walked in the Sexiest Show at Milan Fashion Week
The lights above the Versace runway were shaped into a "V," and that's how we knew the Spring 2017 collection would be signature Donatella. "This show is for women taking chances. Take the leap," were the words that echoed over a bumping beat (an exclusive track written by Violet & Photonz) as models stormed the catwalk. We were right: the new line is as sexy as we've come to expect from the fashion house, but it takes a sporty turn.
Donatella's iconic cutouts were everywhere - at the neckline, over the hip bone, to reveal a slip of thigh - but these pieces came in nylon. Some minidresses and coordinate sets were even covered with long windbreakers, the updated robe, if you will. These blew by the front row, catching the wind, stirring everyone to action.
As far as prints go, wavy shapes morphed with a checkerboard pattern in bright green, purple, yellow, and red. Lines zoomed down power suits, cut to flatter the figure. And while everyone's showing track sets these days, the Versace version stood out. Jackets were lifted into cropped bombers to bare the midriff and leggings were notably tight. Sequined minis and sparkly panels added a feminine touch, proving there's always room for experimentation.
Donatella's muses were all in attendance, including Irina Shayk, Bella Hadid, Hanne Gaby, and Naomi Campbell. But it was Gigi Hadid who closed the show in a look with all the details: shimmer, a short hemline, sheer panels, and one sporty anorak, confirming that the ultimate Versace girl really has it all.
Why Halloween Is My Christmas
As a Jewish girl growing up in a diverse community, I was surrounded by a variety of cultural celebrations and traditions that were different than my own. While I appreciated this exposure, there was one holiday that was by far my favorite: Halloween.
I didn't realize it at the time, but my enthusiasm for this Fall holiday had little to do with the tricks or the treats. It was all about the seemingly more inclusive yearly traditions that my family, friends, and I could all partake in together. It didn't matter whether one was Jewish, Catholic, or agnostic - we all got dressed up and went roaming for candy without anyone being left out.
Every year for Halloween, my dad and I would completely decorate the house. We would also religiously hit the stores on Nov. 1 on the hunt for newly discounted decor items to add to our holiday collection for the following year. I might not have been able to hang a Christmas wreath on my door in December (much to my 10-year-old Martha Stewart-worshiping heart's dismay!), but there was certainly a festive orange and black one hanging by the start of October. I counted down the days until I could go shopping for my costume and lived for the school parties.
Looking back, it seems obvious that my appreciation for our traditional pizza dinner every single Halloween night and the coveted trip to the pumpkin patch was because, in a sense, Halloween was my Christmas. It was something I got to look forward to, prepare for, and indulge in by celebrating for weeks leading up to the big day. I tuned in for the yearly movies counting down to the big day and I could show my holiday spirit to all of my neighbors with the impressive thought that went into my carved pumpkin. And not to say that I didn't appreciate the unique aspects of Hanukkah and Passover just as much as I enjoyed the more universal holidays like New Year's Eve and Thanksgiving, but there was just something different about Halloween.
As a little girl who took comfort in tradition and felt excluded from many holidays, Halloween was most definitely my Christmas.
Here's the Cast of American Horror Story Season 6
American Horror Story season six has been set up to be the most mysterious season yet, and even after the first couple episodes, we're still confused about the theme. Much of the veteran cast has returned (or will appear in upcoming episodes), including Mother Monster herself, Lady Gaga. For now, here is everyone who has been officially confirmed for the cast.
Kate Middleton Makes These 12 Royal Updates to Her Wardrobe Every Fall
There's a reason Kate Middleton's Fall outfits always look familiar. First of all, she repeats plenty of pieces at the same time each year. There's nothing wrong with that - she knows what feels comfortable and, of course, what actually looks good. But of course, there are little tricks and tips she picked up at Kensington Palace that she'll never forget.
The duchess knows just when to pull out her tights and what season it's appropriate to work tweed and plaid into her look. Of course, there's always room for a little experimentation. Kate always debuts new prints for special occasions, and we can't wait to see what she's got planned for 2016. In the meantime, read on for the 12 style updates Kate's making right now.
Totally Not-Scary Baby Corgi Shows Mini Pumpkin Who's Boss
Try as he might, this Corgi pup just isn't scary, though he might be a little scared of this terrifying mini pumpkin. He loses his cool while dancing around it and barking ever-so ferociously, but mostly we just want to say "aww" and cuddle him a little bit. Check out even more awesome animal videos here.
We Just Caught Kim Kardashian Wearing a Juicy Tracksuit
Transformed again, kitschy, quirky, and high-fashion, even in a Juicy Couture tracksuit, Kim Kardashian graces the pages of Wonderland magazine's latest issue. We're used to a certain persona Mrs. Kanye West and her husband have crafted with pieces designed by friends like Olivier Rousteing, but she looks no less convincing playing dress-up in rhinestones, sipping out of a hot-pink, leopard-print cup. We have to hand it to her - she even looks fierce in a marabou bra, like a fembot, only her stare isn't blank; it's piercing. She manages to make a throwback fuchsia sweatsido look sexy. (With her influence, she could likely get the nostalgic staple trending again.) Read on to see Kim transform for her latest shoot, proving Kendall Jenner may not be the only one in the family with some serious modeling chops.
Courteney Cox's Competitive Side in This Friends Trivia Game Would Make Monica Geller Proud
Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow left us craving a cup of Central Perk coffee when they played a Friends-themed round of Celebrity Name Game on Sept. 16. The actresses, who blessed us with the characters of Monica Geller and Phoebe Buffay, were on top of their stuff, nailing every question the game show could throw at them. The only one that kind of tripped up Kudrow? Ugly Naked Guy, of course. Cox also slipped in a brief but hilarious impression of David Schwimmer that we will forever be grateful for, so check it out above.
Why 1 Ballerina Is Bravely Sharing the Story Behind Her Hair Loss
If your signature beauty look involves a taut hairstyle, a former ballerina's story may make you reconsider. Diva Hollands, a 22-year-old from Britain, has bravely shared her journey suffering from traction alopecia, a form of gradual hair loss caused by tension.
Diva started dancing at the age of 3, which is when she began wearing styles that kept her hair tightly pinned back and off of her face. As she got older, her hairline visibly receded, and she was teased for it throughout her years in school. Though she stopped training at 18, the years of ballerina buns had taken a toll. The hair loss affected her self-esteem. "I remember the exact words a boy at school said to me; he said I had a forehead the size of a football pitch," Diva said.
After meeting her fiancé, David, she gave birth to two children, which caused her to lose even more hair. Diva decided to undergo follicular unit transplantation surgery. This procedure consists of removing a thin strip of hair-bearing skin from the back of the scalp. This piece is then split up into hair grafts, which are carefully implanted individually to replicate the natural hair growth pattern of the patient.
Dr. Edward Ball, who now runs the Maitland Clinic, performed the eight-hour surgery in October 2015. Since then, Diva's hair has dramatically improved, which she says has had a "huge impact" on her life.
Diva shared her story in hopes to assuage the embarrassment or low self-esteem of other women dealing with the same problem. "I really do think there's a taboo when it comes to women's hair loss," she said. "It can happen to anyone and it's nothing to be embarrassed about." Read on to see the incredible results of her surgery.
34 Useful and Delightful iPhone 7 Plus Cases
Here's one way to avoid scratches and cracks on the new iPhone 7 Plus: a cute and protective case! It's the one easy action you can do that will hopefully prevent any tears or frustration if you happen to drop your iPhone. Check out some of our favorites ahead, and order them soon.
The Post-Workout Meal That Only Takes 60 Seconds to Make
Who doesn't love milk and cereal? We can't imagine anyone who wouldn't. The sad truth is that many of us tend to avoid cereal as we grow older for fear of empty calories, too much sugar, or even being perceived as too childlike, but we're proudly stating that this is one comfort food that is on our healthy list! Everyone is hungry after a workout. So when hunger hits you, why not put something in your belly that's not only going to fill you up but also aid in recovery and lean muscle growth?
Cereal gets a bad rep within the gluten, low-carb, and hidden-additive crowds, but if you're smart about your choices, you can have a great snack that could be the healthiest thing you eat all week. And science backs it!
Why Milk and Cereal?
Whole-grain cereal and skim milk combine to form a great source of carbs and protein, and that's exactly what your body needs after a workout. As you exercise, your glycogen (chemical form of carbohydrates) stores become depleted. Ingesting carbohydrates will replenish them. But that's not all your body needs after you work out! You need protein to build and repair the muscles you targeted. Getting enough protein after your workout will stimulate protein synthesis, which is the building of the new, toned muscle you've been working so hard for.
A recent study published in the Journal of Internal Sports Medicine made even further discoveries that support this. Researchers asked one group to have a sports drink after their workout, and another group had a bowl of whole-grain cereal and nonfat milk. The group that ate the milk and cereal had positive results in stimulating muscle recovery. In fact, the milk and cereal was superior to the sports drink in restocking the muscles' protein levels, which further fueled muscle recovery. All this for about 150 calories!
Timing is everything!
Typically, a post-workout recovery shake or meal should be eaten within an hour of finishing. But according to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, "The sooner you have your recovery meal, the better because you body just went through an enormous amount of stress and work and it is primed to accept protein and carbs to immediately put them to use." After having that meal, you're refueling with carbs and protein, enabling your body to replenish muscle glycogen that was depleted during your workout, and protein will go to your muscles and help them grow. This meal will also help rehydrate you, which is especially important after you train!
Go ahead and use it for pre-workout too!
For all the same reasons we need a post-workout recovery, we also need some pre-workout fuel. Typically a good mix of carbs and proteins will help you power through your workout, and milk and cereal can definitely do the trick. A bowl of milk and cereal eaten before your workout (about 60 minutes prior so you can digest and be at your peak for training) gives you everything you need. You might not want to be eating cereal that many times per day, but it's nice to know it's an option. Who are we kidding? Of course we want as many excuses to enjoy a bowl of cereal! Enjoy!
24 Times Prince Royce Showed Off His Superhot Muscles and We Got Weak at the Knees
Prince Royce is known for his sexy lyrics and swoon-worthy singing voice, but his buff physique is our new obsession. The 27-year-old bachata singer, whose romantic performance at Premios Juventud took our breath away, has recently been spending a lot of time in the gym - and his supertoned biceps are proof of all his hard work.
Lucky for us, Prince Royce loves sharing his progress with his millions of Instagram followers. Whether he's snapping a quick mirror selfie in the weight room or wearing a muscle tee on stage, his feed is seriously an endless source of fitspiration (read: eye candy). Read on for a look at his hottest pictures yet (adorable dimples very much included), and then admire his impressive man bun.
The Post-Workout Meal That Only Takes 60 Seconds to Make
Who doesn't love milk and cereal? We can't imagine anyone who wouldn't. The sad truth is that many of us tend to avoid cereal as we grow older for fear of empty calories, too much sugar, or even being perceived as too childlike, but we're proudly stating that this is one comfort food that is on our healthy list! Everyone is hungry after a workout. So when hunger hits you, why not put something in your belly that's not only going to fill you up but also aid in recovery and lean muscle growth?
Cereal gets a bad rep within the gluten, low-carb, and hidden-additive crowds, but if you're smart about your choices, you can have a great snack that could be the healthiest thing you eat all week. And science backs it!
Why Milk and Cereal?
Whole-grain cereal and skim milk combine to form a great source of carbs and protein, and that's exactly what your body needs after a workout. As you exercise, your glycogen (chemical form of carbohydrates) stores become depleted. Ingesting carbohydrates will replenish them. But that's not all your body needs after you work out! You need protein to build and repair the muscles you targeted. Getting enough protein after your workout will stimulate protein synthesis, which is the building of the new, toned muscle you've been working so hard for.
A recent study published in the Journal of Internal Sports Medicine made even further discoveries that support this. Researchers asked one group to have a sports drink after their workout, and another group had a bowl of whole-grain cereal and nonfat milk. The group that ate the milk and cereal had positive results in stimulating muscle recovery. In fact, the milk and cereal was superior to the sports drink in restocking the muscles' protein levels, which further fueled muscle recovery. All this for about 150 calories!
Timing is everything!
Typically, a post-workout recovery shake or meal should be eaten within an hour of finishing. But according to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, "The sooner you have your recovery meal, the better because you body just went through an enormous amount of stress and work and it is primed to accept protein and carbs to immediately put them to use." After having that meal, you're refueling with carbs and protein, enabling your body to replenish muscle glycogen that was depleted during your workout, and protein will go to your muscles and help them grow. This meal will also help rehydrate you, which is especially important after you train!
Go ahead and use it for pre-workout too!
For all the same reasons we need a post-workout recovery, we also need some pre-workout fuel. Typically a good mix of carbs and proteins will help you power through your workout, and milk and cereal can definitely do the trick. A bowl of milk and cereal eaten before your workout (about 60 minutes prior so you can digest and be at your peak for training) gives you everything you need. You might not want to be eating cereal that many times per day, but it's nice to know it's an option. Who are we kidding? Of course we want as many excuses to enjoy a bowl of cereal! Enjoy!
Even the Dalai Lama Can't Believe Brad and Angelina Broke Up (Yes, Really)
Of all the celebrities who were taken aback by the news of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's shocking divorce, we certainly never would have guessed that the Dalai Lama, of all people, would have an opinion. Nevertheless, 14th Dalai Lama Lhamo Dondrub sat down for a chat with Good Morning Britain's Piers Morgan on Thursday to discuss the end of Brangelina (among other things). The couple, who was together for 12 years and married for two, are reportedly splitting due to issues regarding their six children - Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne - and His Holiness said that aspect especially made him feel "sad." "Sometimes with divorced people - it's the children. They become closer to their father or mother," he said. The divorce has only gotten more complicated since the news broke, so we hope the Dalai Lama will be able to move on.
You're Going to Sleep With the Lights On Tonight After Reading These Chilling Things Kids Have Said
Any frequent internet-dweller knows that the depths of Reddit can sometimes be a very scary place. Perhaps the most damning evidence of this claim is a recent thread in which users are sharing the most chilling and disturbing things their kids have ever said. Hold on to your seats, friends. You're probably going to want to sleep with the lights on tonight.
- "When my cousin was two years old or so, her mom got pregnant again. One day she went to hug her mom's belly and said, 'Little brother sick.' A few days later she had a miscarriage." - JuWhi
- "My niece drew a picture of 'a man in her room' that she kept telling her parents about. He had two different colored eyes, and one was gray. When asked why it was gray, she responded, 'Because he can see the storm coming.'" - herobotic
- "When my son was small, I was talking to him about growing potatoes. I described how you bank up the earth around them as they grow, and he said, 'I used to do that when I was an old man.'" - cheeselet
Source: NBC
- "My son had an imaginary friend named Sam when he was three. He would talk to him and laugh when we weren't in the room. We would always play along with him. Build his imagination and whatnot. We asked him, 'What does Sam look like?' And he said, 'He's small. Like me. But hes not a kid. He has black hair and black eyes.' I looked at my wife and laughed and said, 'That doesn't sound like a nice friend.' And [my son] replied, 'Shhh, he's right behind you.'" - Unicorncuddletime
- "My three-year-old daughter was in the bath playing with her toys with me and laughing. Suddenly her face deadpans, she looks me in the eye and tells me in a serious little voice, 'Mummy, if you bit and ate all my fingers off I wouldn't love you anymore.'" - Likatiger
- "My son always says odd things. Usually they're funny but this one threw me for a loop. He is eight. I was telling him how much I love him and thanks for being in my life. He said: 'I didn't choose this life. I couldn't control how it began. But I can control how it ends.'" - ravenlily
- "We were driving down a dark, snowy highway late one evening. My son, who was around four or five at the time, was in the back seat and becoming a bit restless. He suddenly covered his face with a blanket and announced loudly, "I don't want to get glass on my face!" A few moments later, a pick-up truck towing some snowmobiles pulled out in front of a tractor trailer a few cars in front of us and got hit, spinning out into the median. Fortunately, we avoided the accident completely. It was indeed a bit creepy, though, almost as though he predicted there was going to be an accident right in front of us." - lori1119
Source: 20th Century Fox
- "When my sister was around three we drove past an old tennis club, run down and no longer being used, [and she said], 'When I was old I played tennis there.'" - THESLAINE
- "Not my child, but a child I was working with in preschool: 'You have a baby inside you, but you won't be a mommy.'
I found out I was pregnant that day and miscarried the next week." - Commandeurrr - "My four-year-old son said, 'Daddy, I want to drill into your tummy, crawl inside and eat your dinner.' The food was OK but I didn't think it was worth that much effort." - yogsoghoth
- "I was with my sister, her husband, and their two-year-old daughter. We were talking about loved ones that had recently passed (my father had died sometime recently). My brother-in-law went and grabbed a picture of his mother, who had died in a car crash when he was six, to show me. When my niece saw the picture though she started laughing. We asked her what was so funny and she looked at us and said, 'That's my special friend who sings to me.' I still shiver a bit just thinking about it." - KaiserXI
Source: The CW
- "We were living at a house where a school mate of mine lived for 15 years before he committed suicide. One day my daughter said, 'He's in the closet.' 'Who's in the closet?' 'Nick. He looks scary daddy.' I went to pictures on [my classmate's] Facebook and asked her who he was, because we'd never talked about him before and she said, 'Oh that's Nick.'" - snooju
"As a dude with a newly pregnant wife, that's enough Reddit for me today," one commenter wrote. Yeah, that about sums it up.
Get the First Look at Once Upon a Time Season 6 With These Gorgeous Photos
Once Upon a Time's sixth season is almost here, and ABC is getting us even more excited with some brand-new stills from the first episode, "Savior." As the heroes try to find a way to stop the villainous Hyde, they are met by a few friendly faces to help get Storybrooke back to normal . . . well, as normal as a town filled with fantasy characters can be. Not only does Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison) look like she means business in her signature red leather jacket, but we can't help but fawn over how gorgeous Captain Hook (Colin O'Donoghue) looks now that he's not, er, dead. See all the magical photos below, then get a refresher on what's to come this season.
Project Runway Is on Its 15th Season! And 14 Other Things You Never Knew About the Show
Now on its 15th season, Project Runway has given us all the drama and fashion we could want from a series. From tackling unconventional challenges – like making a garment out of newspapers – to finally debuting at New York Fashion Week, the designers have always kept us on the edges of our seats. With any reality TV show, however, there are always behind-the-scenes moments we never see. Whether or not you've tuned in to the new season, every fan will still want to know the secrets ahead. Read on for 14 fast facts about the show that'll give you instant nostalgia.
10 Hilarious Halloween Costumes Based on Jennifer Lopez's Lyrics
While most of us aspire to be Jennifer Lopez IRL (be her, not like her), most of us don't share her DNA. But that's what Halloween is for, right? All you need is to ace a costume inspired by one of her lyrics to channel the best J Lo has given us through the years - aside from the naked dress trend, of course. We put together 10 creative ideas you can choose from this Oct. 31.
22 Iconic Tom Hanks Roles You Can Re-Create on Halloween Night
Over the years, Tom Hanks has portrayed some pretty memorable characters, from a teen in a grown man's body to a castaway on a deserted island. With iconic roles like Forrest Gump and Woody, it seems like the actor's résumé is just bursting with incredible costume ideas. So if you're looking for inspiration this Halloween, we definitely suggest channeling one of his many personas. We've rounded up the best of the best here to help you have an incredible Oct. 31.
Exes Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato Took to the Stage Together and Our Hearts Can't Take It
After causing a fan frenzy with their surprise duet back in July, Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato had another yet adorable reunion in LA on Thursday. The friendly exes, who dated in 2010, shared the stage once more when they performed a private concert for Marriott Reward members. While Joe's band, DNCE, got the crowd hyped with a few of their big hits, Demi completely embodied the word "confident" by rocking a sexy suede dress. The cutest moment had to be when the two embraced in a hug during a special rendition of DNCE's "Toothbrush." If you need us, we'll just be playing the Camp Rock soundtrack on repeat.
21 Spooky Snacks to Pack in Your Little One's Lunchbox This Halloween
Halloween is on a Monday this year, so before a night of trick-or-treating, costume flaunting, and uncontrollable candy bar sugar highs, your little ones have to head off to school. Even though packing lunches is a monotonous task that a lot of parents could do without, there are a bunch of ways to make their Halloween lunchbox an exciting one for both you to prep and for them to eat.
Read through for 21 spooky snacks - some involving little to no prep, some more intricate - that will be welcome treats in your kiddo's lunch bag this Halloween.
The 6 Biggest Trends From London Fashion Week
Hot on the heels of New York, London designers took to the catwalk to give us a taste of what we can expect for Spring 2017 (as well as a few things we can buy right now). To help you plan your future shopping list, we've rounded up the key trends we spotted on the LFW runways, from the colors we'll all be obsessing over come Spring to the new silhouettes to look out for in the coming months. It's never too early to start outfit planning.
Hollywood's Muscular Stars Are Taking Part in the #22PushUpChallenge For a Good Cause
The latest viral Instagram craze to reach Hollywood since 2014's Ice Bucket Challenge has arrived. The #22PushUpChallenge aims to raise awareness for the high rate of suicide among veterans, which sadly occurs 22 times per day. The movement first gained traction in August when Chris Pratt and Anna Faris documented their push-ups on Instagram, and challenged Dwayne "my muscles barely fit in my t-shirt" Johnson to bust out a few himself. Since then, celebrities like David Beckham (in his underwear on top of a piano, mind you) Scott Eastwood, Chris Evans, and more have gotten inspired to post their own versions of the challenge. See them all for yourself!
51 Flawlessly Adorable Harry Potter Couple Costume Ideas
Anyone who's in a relationship knows how much of a struggle it is every year to decide what you and your significant other should dress up as for Halloween. And while there are plenty of alternatives like emoji that you can go as, you know that you just want another excuse to show off your Harry Potter love. Check out some Harry Potter duo inspiration ahead; you'll definitely scrounge through your closet to try to imitate one of these excellently dressed couples.
The Ultimate Wedding Cake Roundup: 100 Showstopping Sweets
With so many wedding cake options available, where do you even start? It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed, which is why we've done the work and rounded up the most beautiful, stunning cakes in existence. You'll find something for every taste, from supertraditional to ultramodern and everything in between. It's so hard to pick a favorite, but hopefully you'll find the look for you among the sweet inspiration. Get clicking, and start swooning!
- Additional reporting by Lisette Mejia
Julie From Friday Night Lights Is Playing a Lawyer Now and I Can't Handle It
Image Source: NBC
See this precious girl who cares about the happiness of chickens? That's Julie on Friday Night Lights. Aimee Teegarden played her from 2006 to 2011, and though the show has been over for years, it'll live on in our (full) hearts forever. Since Teegarden is, in fact, a professional actress, she has moved on to other roles, the latest of which is a spot on the new ABC show Notorious. The show premiered this week, and here she is in character as Emery Whitehill.
Image Source: ABC
Our little Julie is all grown up! It makes sense that Teegarden, who is almost 27 years old, is taking on more adult roles, but it still makes me long for the days when Julie was crashing her car into mailboxes so she wouldn't have to go back to school. (College can be hard.) Here's to hoping Matt (Zach Gilford) makes a cameo this season.
The Difficult Lesson This Teacher Learned From Her Students After Terence Crutcher Was Shot
After Terence Crutcher, an unarmed black man, was shot and killed by an Oklahoma police officer, the school where his daughter is enrolled decided that it needed to address the tragedy head on - and let its students know how much each of their lives matter.
The school created three small discussion groups organized by grades, and the teacher who facilitated these difficult conversations shared her experience because she is convinced that if you put yourself in the shoes of a child of color in Tulsa right now, "you will have a clearer understanding of the crisis we're facing and why we say Black Lives Matter."
Rebecca Lee first faced the fifth graders and was greeted by wide-eyed faces waiting to hear what she had to say. They all read a news article together, and then she asked what their thoughts were.
They answer with questions. Why did they have to kill him? Why were they afraid of him? Why does [our student] have to live life without a father? What will she do at father daughter dances? Who will walk her down the aisle? Why did no one help him after he was shot? Hasn't this happened before? Can we write her cards? Can we protest?
As the questions roll, so do the tears. Students cry softly as they speak. Others weep openly. I watch 10 year olds pass tissues to each other, to me, to our principal as he joins our circle. One girl closes our group by sharing: "I wish white people could give us a chance. We can all come together and get along. We can all be united." Let me tell you, these 10 year olds are more articulate about this than I am.
We agree to love one another, to take care of one another. I tell each of them that I am white and I love them and they matter to me.
When the next group entered, the sixth graders were either red-eyed or withdrawn. Lee addressed the class, which included Crutcher's daughter.
I fight the urge to fill the dead air with my voice. A few quiet words are whispered about sadness and unfairness, but the rest of the time is spent wiping eyes and hugging one another. It becomes clear that no one else is in a place to speak. I give them the space to process silently. Then I tell them, "We have different skin colors. I love you. You matter. You are worthy. You are human. You are valuable." Shoulders shake harder around the circle. I realize that this is the first time all year I have affirmed my love for them.
The last group of students, the 13- and 14-year-olds, were hardened and angry as they sat down. Some refused to hold the article, and others spoke matter-of-factly about their feelings.
"What made him 'a big bad dude?" a boy asks. "Was it his height? His size..." I look at the boys in my circle, all former students of mine. They have grown inches since their first day in my class. Their voices have deepened. Their shoulders broadened. They all nod their heads in agreement at the student's last guess - "The color of his skin?"
Lee shared her heart-wrenching story because she realizes that Crutcher's death doesn't just affect the students at her school.
"We are creating an identity crisis in all of our black and brown students – Do I matter? Am I to be feared? Should I live in fear? Am I human? We are shaping their worldview with blood and bullets, hashtags and viral videos," Lee wrote. "I ask that you put yourself in the shoes of black and brown children growing up in a world where they see videos of their classmate's father shot and bleeding in the street."
Watch Shakira's Powerful Message About the Importance of Education
Shakira teamed up with The Education Commission for its #LearningGeneration movement. The Colombian-born "La Bicicleta" singer, who is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, is showing how passionate she is about the role education plays in a sustainable future for children around the world.
In the moving video, above, Shakira joins global leaders to spread the message that quality education should be a priority for every nation. "Our future generations will surpass our greatest expectations if we give them the tools to do so," she starts. "They have the talent, the potential, and the power to change the world for the better, but we know that their future will be written by how we act today." Press play above to watch Shakira's powerful speech in full. Then, relive her chill-inducing performance of John Lennon's "Imagine" at the 2015 UN General Assembly.
10 Magical Details About Once Upon a Time's Next Season
Once Upon a Time will finally return with new episodes on Sunday. While the season finale gave us a few hints of what's to come for the characters and what new stories would be introduced, the show's lead writers, Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, have also slipped a few hints into recent interviews, including ours!
This Hair Color Faux-Pas Could Make You Look Older
Broken hearts are the worst. Broken hair cuticles may be just as bad, though - at least that's how LA-based colorist Johnny Ramirez approaches things.
Johnny is known by most of you beauty junkies as one-half of Ramirez-Tran Salon (his partner is Anh Co Tran). Just follow his Instagram account and you'll find yourself down a rabbit hole of dye inspiration. Johnny and Anh have perfected the beachy, lived-in look that so many women covet IRL and on social media.
Talk to anyone who has gone to see Johnny and they'll tell you: it's a process. This isn't your pop-in, pop-out hair color appointment. When I visited him with my shoulder-grazing bob, I spent five hours in his chair. But the finished look is what keeps us coming back . . . every six months, that is.
After my appointment, I picked his brain on how hair can age you, what products every woman should own, and why you should avoid platinum blonde at all costs. Plus, keep reading for some serious color inspiration!
Kristen Bell's "Disastrous" Childhood Haircut Will Make You LOL
One of the many reasons we love Kristen Bell is that she is completely honest. Whether she's revealing her favorite $4 perfume or opening up about depression, the star of The Good Place keeps it admirably real with her fans. On a recent turn on The Late Late Show, she divulged that not only was she the only girl on a boys' baseball team as a kid, but her mother also gave her a "disastrous" haircut so she'd fit in with her fellow teammates. Watch and see the adorably awkward mullet for yourself.
Is Kim Kardashian Launching a New Makeup Collection?
Kim Kardashian is never one to withhold her beauty secrets. She frequently divulges her favorite beauty products on her website, in tutorials with her makeup artists, and now, via a live stream.
While in Toronto recently, Kim shared a live stream of herself doing her makeup, which has since left beauty editors and enthusiasts scrambling to find the products she used.
She starts off the video by noting that she has about 10 minutes to get ready. As it turns out, a lot happens in those 10 minutes: friend Jonathan Cheban frequently interrupts her, she listens to Solange Knowles while talking about why she loves playlists, and even her husband, Kanye West, makes a cameo at the end.
Kim also hints at a possible new makeup line as she's applying highlighter under her eyes. She says, "I'm not even gonna tell you guys, because I have some exciting things coming out."
As one might expect, Kim's finished look is stunning. When she asks Kanye what he thinks at the end, he says, "It looks so pretty. I love it." Same, Kanye, same.
Look ahead for all the products Kim used in her intimate tutorial.
19 Struggles of Using a Chip Reader . . . and Failing
Without being overly dramatic, the widespread introduction of the card chip reader is ruining our lives. OK maybe that was a tiny bit dramatic, but the adoption of the chip reader in lieu of the usual swipe has caused a lot of confusion for shoppers everywhere. Not only that, but the chip reader causes even more chaos when it suddenly (but frequently) decides to stop working, at which point shoppers must use the swipe.
If you've experienced this vicious cycle one too many times - or have been on the receiving end of it as a cashier - you'll relate to these spot-on reactions ahead.
22 Times Pitch Perfect's Anna Camp and Skylar Astin Shared Crazy-Sweet PDA
Pitch Perfect costars and real-life couple Anna Camp and Skylar Astin aren't afraid to share sweet nothings on social media. Like many celebrity couples on Instagram, the pair regularly posts pictures together, showing how much they love each other. And the cuteness is nothing new. In June, the two revealed why they are the perfect match, and just a few months later, the two tied the knot with a picture-perfect wedding ceremony. We can't think of any better way to celebrate than by looking back at their best PDA pictures over the years. Keep scrolling for all the snaps below, and then check out Skylar's quote about the moment he knew he wanted to marry Anna.
4 Big Details About Quantico's Second Season That Have Us Ridiculously Excited For the Premiere
It's been a long Summer without Quantico's blue-thermal-and-khaki-clad NATs to entertain us with their convoluted terrorist plots, political intrigue, and blush-inducing sex scenes. Luckily, ABC's addictive FBI series is returning this weekend with new characters and plenty of new drama. Keep reading to see everything we know about season two so far, and then check out what the cast has been up to behind the scenes.
23 Alton Brown Recipes You Have to Try ASAP
Alton Brown recipes are always a good idea, because the Food Network chef knows a thing or two (million) about food. The Cutthroat Kitchen host is known for treating cooking like science (nitrus oxide cold brew, anyone?), and his vast culinary knowledge makes his recipes that much more desirable. These are 23 standout recipes either adapted from or directly from the chef, from basic guacamole to next-level crème brulée.
I Got Microbladed - Here's Everything That's Happened (So Far)
I've never gotten a tattoo, and I didn't plan on ever getting one. But when you see the transformation that comes as a result of microblading, it makes you reconsider.
I actually heard about nicroblading from Bella Thorne. Well, not directly through her, per say, but she had just been in studio for an episode of Pretty Unfiltered, a show I host here at POPSUGAR, and I started following her on Snapchat immediately after. She visited Microblading LA to get her brows done. I had seen the term thrown around a few times online, but the idea of getting something permanently done to my face freaked me out, so I never thought twice about it, until I saw Bella's brows.
Microblading is a procedure that essentially makes any and all brow products worthless to you, because you will not need to use them when you get the procedure done. It's a cosmetic tattoo that fills in your brows or, in some cases, creates a beautiful, sculpted, natural-looking brow, sometimes out of nothing. A technician uses ink and a handheld blade to create hair-like cuts into the skin. You know the meme that compares your brows? "Left brow: Speaks three languages, top of her class, helps the homeless. Right brow: lives with her parents, gets arrested, has no life goals." It speaks to me on a personal level. Getting my brows to a good place each morning takes too much time! It's not that I have nonexistent brows - my hair is coarse - but there are definitely patches of hair missing.
I try any and everything for our viewers, so I offered my brows up as a test. (You know, in the name of journalism.) And, of course, I wanted to go to the best, so I reached out to Lindsey Ta and Microblading LA. There, they have four rooms for clients, along with a larger studio that serves as their training academy. Lindsey, the owner, has been in the permanent cosmetics world for several years and won the 2016 World of Microblading Championship in Amsterdam this year. To say she knows symmetry of the face would be a gross understatement.
Before the Appointment
Lindsey was kind and personable during our correspondence, and two days before my appointment, she advised me not to take aspirin, drink alcohol or caffeine, or eat omega 3s, explaining all of these things could thin my blood. She also explained to me that clients who receive injectables should refrain from this service for at least two weeks after their last appointment.
The Appointment
"I tell everyone to expect a two-hour appointment," Lindsey said. The first hour or so is mostly for the mapping process and for getting to know the client. Lindsey says learning about her client's lifestyle can help her give perspective to them when it comes to their brows. For instance, someone who swims a lot or sweats a lot might not have as long-lasting results as some of her other clients. And I learned it's not how much or little brow hair you have that matters. Instead, the real focus is your skin type. If you have oily skin, the results might not last as long, either.
In terms of how long they last - that's the second question I always get (first coming later on) - it can be anywhere from one to three years, depending on your lifestyle. I imagine with my job, which has me consistently washing my face or doing some kind of crazy face mask at the drop of a hat, that mine won't last past a year, if that. But it sounds amazing to not have to do my brows every morning!
After filling out paperwork and chatting with Lindsey, she sat me down in front of a brightly lit vanity and offered me a mint. "We're about to get real close," she said as she popped one in, too. Then, she stepped back toward the vanity and looked me straight on, to my left and my right, observing my brows from every angle.
"Your left eye is smaller than your right," she said, matter of factly. She was right: having eye surgery as a child to remedy a condition called ptosis, I've noticed that my left eye has always been smaller and in the past year has started to droop. I shook my head. "I'm going to shape your brows so they look a bit more symmetrical." This excited me - perhaps I won't need another surgery to remedy this issue.
Mapping the Brow
First, they use a pencil to map out the brow. It's a very confusing process because they essentially create a giant outline of your brow, and I was worried I was going to look like a caricature of myself. Lindsey explained that they would never create single, straight, harsh lines on my brow. These lines are like a coloring book: they're guides to fill the brow in. They also mark the brows to indicate when the hair stroke should change direction, hence the vertical lines on my forehead.
Then, they use a 3D waterproof pencil to create hair strokes to use as a guide for the actual tattooing process. Once that is finished, she let me look at the shape and give my thoughts. Initially I was worried that they were too close together, but she reminded me that it would be fading, and the hairs wouldn't be as stark as the guide she created.
With my approval, she shaped my brow with a razor, cleaning up underneath and essentially lifting my brow. Then, she applied topical numbing cream, and 20 minutes later, I was lying down to get my first tattoo - on my face, no less!
The Process
The number one question I've received throughout all of this has been "does it hurt?" Yes and no. The numbing cream makes it so that you don't feel any incisions, but it's not perfect, so there were times I could feel a bit of discomfort when she was making the hair strokes. And let's get real: she is using a blade to cut open my skin! Of course it isn't going to be pain-free. I'd describe the entire process, though, similar to an itch. She pulled my skin taut and sliced, kind of like creating a bunch of tiny paper cuts. I know this sounds painful, but it was more annoying to me than anything.
She created the incisions, and as she went, she filled them with ink. Lindsey asked some secrets of her practice to remain secret, so what I'll say about the ink is that it's, apparently, different than ink they used for standard cosmetic tattoos, so when it fades, it doesn't turn gray or purple; it just kind of disappears over time.
After the first round of incisions (about 30 minutes), she went back and fixed any imperfections. Then, she coated the brow with a layer of ink to seal her work. Two minutes later, I was looking in the mirror at my new brows.
After the Appointment and Aftercare
Staring at my new brows, I was shocked to see that this normal "dip" I have in the tail of my natural brow is completely gone: she'd filled it with the most perfect hair-like strokes I've ever seen. The sparse patch at the front of my brow had vanished, and she'd also created a few strokes closer to my nose, bringing them in a little.
The numbing cream wore off about an hour after the appointment, and it felt like my brows were on fire. They were fairly sore, too. (Again, I wasn't surprised.) Lindsey told me before the appointment that there were a variety of aftercare instructions, one being that I couldn't wash my face for a week.
SKIIIIRT. What?! Washing my face gives me great joy. I was not amused by this tidbit, but she explained that there is a "dry healing" period in which the brows will need to essentially scab over and shed. To prevent any scars and to help them heal quickly, it would be essential for me to keep my brows from getting wet for at least a week, which definitely made removing eye makeup and taking showers a very detailed activity. Oh, and picking off the dead skin is also a big no-no.
The good news, though, is that I was not allowed to sweat excessively, either, so it's too bad that I couldn't go to the gym, either. Truly.
It will be about four to six weeks before my brows fully heal, and during that process, I'll notice my brows get super dark, shed, get super light, shed, and them become the shade they were intended to be. After six weeks, I will return for a touch-up appointment.
1 Week Since the Appointment
I've been keeping a diary of sorts on Instagram regarding my microblading experience. The day after the appointment, my brows were so dark that I could have been mistaken for Groucho Marx or Bert from Sesame Street. I have found that I wear more eye makeup right now, since my brows are darker, because I want to balance them. Cleansing cloths from Olay and Q-tips have been my new best friends when it comes to makeup removal, and my Beautyblender has made applying moisturizer stress-free.
Over the past week, they've been itchy, and it's taken every inch of me not to scratch them profusely. Randomly, a little piece will hang off my skin and look like dandruff, which is super sexy, and at night, I know that my boyfriend probably has nightmares about my glistening, ointment-coated brows. But I have to say, not filling in my brows has changed me. It's a time saver, that's for sure. I have had to fill in the places where the brows have shed, but Lindsey told me that would happen and I could use brow powder to help.
The Cost
And the third most-asked question: how much does it cost? Microblading LA charges between $700-$1,500 for this service, depending on how extensive your brow application is. If you're filling in a few spots, it's going to be less expensive than going in and getting an entire brow drawn onto the skin. Nationally, it seems the standard rate starts around $500.
Yes, it's an investment, that's for sure. If time is money to you, it's definitely worth it. I'm going to keep reporting each week on the status of my brows and how the process is going, so check back frequently to learn more about the process! Below is a photo of me, nothing on my brows, pretreatment, and a photo of myself on set six days later. I have nothing on my brows, even though I do have on more makeup.
This Is Why Steve From Stranger Things and Jean-Ralphio From Parks and Rec Were Hanging Out
Earlier this week, pictures surfaced of Joe Keery (aka Steve from Stranger Things) and Ben Schwartz (aka Jean-Ralphio from Parks and Recreation) just chilling, dressed alike. Thanks to The Late Late Show with James Corden, we finally know why, and it involves a lot more than just matching outfits.
Celebrate the Weekend by Watching Ricky Martin's "Vente Pa'Ca" Music Video on Repeat
If your party playlist needs updating, look no further than Ricky Martin's sizzling song "Vente Pa'Ca" featuring Colombian reggaeton singer Maluma.
The tune on its own is catchy enough to make you want to get up and dance, but the newly released music video amps it up even further - and kind of makes us wish Summer wasn't over. Considering its unique storyline involving the very Instagram picture that let us know it was in the works (and a little acting from the duo at the start), this sexy video will leave you wishing you could enter your screen and join the fun. Press play above to see why for yourself. Then, admire Ricky's hottest shirtless snaps.
Suboxone maker sued by U.S. states alleging anticompetitive practices
35 U.S. states and District of Columbia file an antitrust lawsuit alleging that British drugmaker Indivior tried to keep cheaper, generic versions of Suboxone off the market.
Suboxone maker sued by U.S. states alleging anticompetitive practices
35 U.S. states and District of Columbia file an antitrust lawsuit alleging that British drugmaker Indivior tried to keep cheaper, generic versions of Suboxone off the market.
jeudi 22 septembre 2016
Blue Jay Is a Heartbreaking New Romance With Sarah Paulson, and It's Coming to Netflix
American Horror Story just came back, with series veteran Sarah Paulson back in the cast, but like every season, we can expect blood, gore, and other atrocities, and some of us just don't have the energy (or the stomach). It's a shame, since stars like Paulson are extraordinary actors, which is why her film at the Toronto International Film Festival was on my must-see list.
Blue Jay stars Paulson and Mark Duplass, who also wrote the film, as high school sweethearts who run into each other after 20 years or so. I'm grateful I caught a screening of the movie, because it was one of my favorites of the festival. Though it's resolutely unflashy and the kind of indie only your film buff friends might have heard about, it should be on your must-see list too, because it's a heartbreaking, worthwhile romance - and, fulfilling the ultimate needs of convenience, it'll be on Netflix soon.
Two caveats: Paulson and Duplass are nearly the only actors in the film, and it's in black and white. The heavily dialogue-based movie may not be for those with short attention spans, but if you ever watched and enjoyed the Before Sunrise series, you will love this. As Jim and Amanda, Paulson and Duplass spend one whole day together after bumping into each other in their hometown, and as they walk, talk, and stop by their old haunts, we learn more and more about their past relationship. While Jim and Amanda have unresolved issues that are specific to them as a couple, anyone who has ever been in love or had a past relationship haunt them like a ghost will relate. And like me, you may end up sobbing a bucket of tears by the end of the movie.
It's a welcome respite to Paulson's intense TV endeavors, but her acting is more stunning than ever. You'll have a chance to check out Blue Jay for yourself when the movie has a theatrical release on Oct. 7 before coming to Netflix, and you can watch the trailer now.
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