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 11 février 2017
6 Unintentionally Funny Moments in Fifty Shades Darker
Ana (Dakota Johnson) and Christian (Jamie Dornan) are back for Fifty Shades Darker, and moviegoers are certainly in for an interesting ride. Even though the film is categorized as a sexy drama, there are funny moments here and there - whether they were intended or not. While some scenes are meant to make you chuckle - like Johnson's nod to her mother's movie Working Girl - others aren't necessarily intended to make you laugh. But with so much melodrama, how can you not? If you haven't caught the movie yet, there are some spoilers in here, but these are the moments that made us and our fellow audience members crack up.
1. When Ana Draws Christian's "Boundaries" With Red Lipstick
Christian has a rule of not letting people touch him, but when his relationship with Ana becomes more serious, he starts to let down his walls. As the two talk about being honest and opening up more with each other, Christian tells Ana to outline his chest with lipstick to differentiate what part of his body is fair game and which she should never touch. First, it's already weird enough that he would have Ana draw on him with makeup (they didn't have any markers around the house?), but the most cringeworthy part is his reaction. He actually looks like he's in pain as she touches his skin with the red tube of lipstick.
2. When Christian Still Has Said Lipstick on in the Shower
After attending his parents' charity ball, the two find that Ana's car has been completely destroyed when they return home. They proceed to hide out in his boat (because that's totally the safest place to go) for the night. Following their stressful evening, Christian jumps in the shower with the red lipstick on his chest still intact. Did he seriously wear that under all of his clothes? There's no way that didn't smudge or immediately wipe off in the shower. Come on, guys.
3. When Ana Tells Her Co-Worker She Doesn't Expect Her to Get Her Coffee
OK, so this was actually meant to be funny, but if you haven't seen Working Girl, the reference probably went right over your head. When Ana takes over for her boss Jack Hyde (Eric Johnson) at work, her co-worker asks if this means she's her new boss, to which Johnson mimics her mother Melanie Griffith's famous line from the movie, telling her, "I don't expect you to fetch me coffee unless you're getting some for yourself."
4. When Christian Tells Leila to Kneel
For most of the movie, Ana feels like someone is stalking her, and this eventually turns out to be true when Christian's ex-submissive, Leila (Bella Heathcote), confronts her in her apartment. She pulls out a gun and attempts to shoot Ana before Christian bursts into the apartment to talk her down. With just one look, he gets her to put down the gun and tells her to kneel. Reverting back to his BDSM ways, he strokes her head like a dog and barks at Ana to leave. Um, OK?
5. When Christian in Turn Kneels For Ana
Following the previous incident, Ana finds herself even more confused about their relationship, knowing that she will never be able to give Christian what he wants: a submissive partner. But Christian is still willing to fight for what they have, and to prove it, he literally gets down on his knees to show that he is capable of submitting to Ana. Not romantic. Just odd.
6. When Christian Bursts Through the Door After His Accident
The two are finally in a good place - and even get engaged - before Christian goes missing in a helicopter accident. Ana is obviously overcome with fear as she waits with his family in his apartment, but all is well when he finally returns home. Of course, how it all goes down is pretty comical. Just moments after the news announces that he's been found on the TV, Christian bursts through the doors completely unharmed. Seriously, how did he manage to escape a burning helicopter without so much as a scratch? Because he's Christian Grey, duh.
Hardcore Gilmore Girls Fans Will Flip Over This Indie Eye Shadow Collection
As we obsess over the Netflix reboot of Gilmore Girls, we're looking for a wide variety of ways to sate our craving for the series. We became a member of the Stars Hollow Coffee Club, we are stocking up on themed swag, and now, we're snapping up this show-inspired makeup collection.
Indie mineral beauty brand Brija Cosmetics is selling a 17-piece matte eye shadow collection with shades all inspired by your favorite residents of Stars Hollow. There's pink "Vicious Trollop," inspired by the lipstick of Emily Gilmore, and the denim-blue "In My Pocket," inspired by Luke and the horoscope he's kept in his pocket for years.
The best part about this collection is the price of each shade. To buy piece by piece, you only have to spend $6 per shadow, the caps of which are decorated with hand-drawn art inspired by the show. But should you buy the entire collection ($103), you'll get all 17 hues and a Luke's Diner-themed lip balm (coffee-flavored, of course). Read on to see all the gorgeous shades.
Indulge in This Magical Cake Inspired by Disney's Beauty and the Beast!
If you're just as excited for Disney's new Beauty and the Beast as we are, then be prepared for your jaw to drop at this enchantingly magical cake that Amorette's Patisserie at Disney World has whipped up in time for the premiere. How badly are you wishing for a bite right now?
Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen's Hottest PDA Moments
Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen celebrate their eighth wedding anniversary this month, and the couple is just as in love as ever! If you need proof, just take a look at the power duo's over-the-top PDA. Between their hot makeout sessions on the beach and their sweet moment on the field after the Super Bowl, it's clear they aren't afraid to flaunt their love. Keep reading to see photos of Tom and Gisele in all their envy-inducing glory!
Jennifer Aniston's Favorite Winter Staple Is One You Might Have Given Up On
We've been watching Jennifer Aniston style tights since the '90s, when she worked them with mini skirts as Rachel Green on Friends. But fast-forward to 2017, and the actress still pulls them off IRL. While we've sacrificed warmth to wear a short dress in the Winter (just because we thought it looked better), Jennifer Aniston's got a solution. Ten solutions, actually. Read on for Jen's best fashion moments in stockings, from the red carpet to date night, then pull out your own pair so you can re-create her sleek looks this season.
Selena Gomez's Sexiest Outfits Through the Years All Have 1 Thing in Common
We know, we know, there's not an outfit Selena can't make sexy by simply putting it on and oozing confidence - honestly she could probably wear old sweatpants and a holey t-shirt and we'd think it's the sexiest thing on Earth because it's all about her attitude. But, you can't deny that through the years, there have been a few looks that have stood out as her most sensual.
For example, there was the Calvin Klein shimmery blue gown she wore to the Grammy Awards in 2016 - those cutouts, that low back! - and the black leather dress she had on for the red carpet of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2015, which showed she has legs for days. Want more? Scroll ahead to check out all of Selena's sexy looks.
How a Healthy-Food Obsession Can Eventually Turn Into an Eating Disorder
Our friends at YourTango share how a healthy-food obsession can turn into an eating disorder.
Starving myself was never my initial goal, although I have done a good job of doing just that.
If ever there was a time to be honest, it is now. For the past two years of my life, I have spent every waking minute thinking about food.
Organic? Raw? Healthy? Superfood? Calories? Sugar content? Benefits? What will happen when I eat this? I have persecuted myself at the end of this sharp-bladed question for so long, tormented yet relishing in the enjoyment of trying to find the answer. My very own modern muse. Starving myself was never my initial goal, although I have done a good job of doing just that.
It began with a notion: health. Eating to feel better, fitter, healthy. I was 17, had just been cruelly dumped with "INSECURE" stitched into the skin of my forehead and overwhelming nausea at the sight of myself.
In the strive for wellness, I made myself very sick.
What started out as a well-intentioned overhaul of my diet quickly became a widespread banning of whole food groups for fear of their negative effects on my body and appearance. These effects, although real and frightening at the time, were entirely fabricated thoughts, used to justify the unhealthy behaviors I was participating in.
Soon, my food obsession became less about the food itself and more about the feeling of control gained from restricting what I put in my mouth. I was always the type of person to strive for perfection, from exam marks to the tidiness of my bedroom to my appearance, and I saw my diet as just another thing I could potentially perfect.
On a day I felt ugly or overwhelmed or unworthy, I could sit down to my dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, sugar-free, carb-free, meat-free portion-controlled meal and feel like I had accomplished something. What is left in the world of food after all that freeness you ask? Vegetables. I wasn't very free at all.
The false belief that I was helping my body, filling it with "goodness" and cutting out the crap, was used to rationalize my unhealthy practices, inducing a sense of fulfillment in me that you might expect to get from a hobby you really like doing.
I didn't like myself, or the way I looked. I didn't feel good enough, ever. I needed to feel in control, ASAP.
Restricting and controlling my diet gave me an answer to all of this. I believed it would make me look better and feel better. It brought me purpose.
Problems came when I was not able to exercise this control over what I was eating, or rather was not able to do this without raising the eyebrows of friends and family. When I found myself in social settings where I had to eat things I couldn't stomach - "fear foods," as I called them - I would later spend hours riddled with shame and guilt over the foods I had consumed, sometimes throwing up to make myself feel clean again.
Where previously I was able to rationalize a plate of pasta, I had lost all sense of what was truly a healthy and balanced meal. At this point, no food really felt safe to eat.
Moving home as college broke for Summer, I wondered how I would be able to conceal my stricter-than-ever eating routine from my parents. They had witnessed my obsession with healthy eating before, but never to this extreme.
Over the Summer, I centered all plans around what I would be able to eat. Plans were only followed through if I was certain I would be able to adhere to my healthy diet plan. More often than not, plans were made only to be broken as the fear of possibly having to eat something I didn't want became overwhelming.
I grew weaker and weaker, only allowing vegetables, fish, and selected nuts to be eaten. I lay awake most nights unable to sleep, listening to the groan of my unsatisfied stomach, feeling satisfied with myself.
An eating disorder never crossed my mind, in the same way sugar never crossed my mouth. I was still eating. I pitied the girls behind the "thinspiration" pages of Tumblr. "If they just ate like I do, they would be thin." I didn't realize they most likely did eat like me, and I was slowly becoming one of them.
That was until one Saturday evening. I looked at myself in the mirror and for the first time in two years, I saw the truth. I was painfully thin, sickly looking. Everything I owned hung off me; I was a walking personified clothes hanger.
I was unhappy, hungry, and exhausted. I was beginning to see flaws in my supreme, all-healing diet. If eating this way was meant to make me feel and look better, why did I feel like a pile of sh*t and look like a bag of bones?
Confessing to this demon came hard; everything else has came easier. Soon, I'll be starting my outpatient treatment where I hope, along with the support of my family and friends, I can recover and begin to rebuild my relationship with food.
To live and act a certain way for years can be impermeable to change. This wasn't a habit - it had become a part of who I was and still am to this day. Freeing myself from this disease that has taken, distorted, weakened every part of me is a long process but I accept the challenge.
I have been saved from myself, but many other people still face the initial battle of recognizing their own truth. I feel lucky to have such amazing people around me who have not judged or shamed me, but not everyone going through the same issue will be as blessed.
Eating disorders need to be given more responsible attention and explored deeply rather than superficially debated. Their limited portrayal in the media is largely stereotypical and highly inaccurate for many cases, using the disease as a source of drama and entertainment in TV shows.
This is an issue which needs to be brought above water and aired to shed the secrecy and shame experienced by those who suffer and to provide them with a means to sound their own alarm.
Our society's obsession with image and the depthless sense of self-worth it can bring is a vehicle for self-destruction amongst young people, and fuels the rising prevalence of eating disorders today. No amount of Dove commercials telling women to love their own bodies can ring out the deafening sound of the beauty industry and their set ideals.
The role of clean eating/elimination diets and our new-found preoccupation with striving for "wellness" through restriction of foods must also not be overlooked when searching for answers in the game of blame. Clean eating, an equally-damaging obsession that's now a cultural norm, is sold to society as essential for achieving full health, when in reality, it's aggressively fueling eating disorders in today's modern world. As a young woman, this mix of insecurity and unattainable perfectionism, whether that be diet or beauty related, is the breeding ground for toxic thoughts and behaviors.
I write this not from a position of recovery and health, but from a place of struggle and empathy. If this incites a feeling of strength or a drive to seek help in someone like myself, then sharing this very personal story will have been worthwhile.
I promise you, people will understand and people can help you. Telling someone how I felt stripped the secrecy, the fulfillment, the rationality away from my behavior and allowed me to be truthful about myself for the first time. I feel free.
More from YourTango:
5 YA Books You'll Be Able to See on the Small Screen This Year
With their explosive fan bases and (typically) movie-friendly storylines, young adult novels have been blowing up the silver screen for years now. Thanks to the rampant success of adaptations like Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, it didn't take long for the TV world to catch on and churn out hits of its own (we still miss you, Gossip Girl). This year is an especially good time for fans of YA books, since a handful of them are set to hit our TV screens over the next few months. From A Series of Unfortunate Events (which is already out and amazing, by the way) to a reboot of Anne of Green Gables, get ready to fall in love with these stories all over again.
Michael Bublé's Emotional Music Video Starring Derek Hough Will Make You Shed a Tear
Michael Bublé released a music video for "I Believe in You" on Friday, and it's making us highly emotional. The video, which stars Dancing With the Stars pro Derek Hough, tells the touching story of childhood sweethearts as they journey through all of life's moments together. Not only does it feature the dancer's signature moves, but it also has a touching backstory. The storyline was actually inspired by the relationship of Hough's grandparents, who danced every day of their lives. Aww!
How a Healthy-Food Obsession Can Eventually Turn Into an Eating Disorder
Our friends at YourTango share how a healthy-food obsession can turn into an eating disorder.
Starving myself was never my initial goal, although I have done a good job of doing just that.
If ever there was a time to be honest, it is now. For the past two years of my life, I have spent every waking minute thinking about food.
Organic? Raw? Healthy? Superfood? Calories? Sugar content? Benefits? What will happen when I eat this? I have persecuted myself at the end of this sharp-bladed question for so long, tormented yet relishing in the enjoyment of trying to find the answer. My very own modern muse. Starving myself was never my initial goal, although I have done a good job of doing just that.
It began with a notion: health. Eating to feel better, fitter, healthy. I was 17, had just been cruelly dumped with "INSECURE" stitched into the skin of my forehead and overwhelming nausea at the sight of myself.
In the strive for wellness, I made myself very sick.
What started out as a well-intentioned overhaul of my diet quickly became a widespread banning of whole food groups for fear of their negative effects on my body and appearance. These effects, although real and frightening at the time, were entirely fabricated thoughts, used to justify the unhealthy behaviors I was participating in.
Soon, my food obsession became less about the food itself and more about the feeling of control gained from restricting what I put in my mouth. I was always the type of person to strive for perfection, from exam marks to the tidiness of my bedroom to my appearance, and I saw my diet as just another thing I could potentially perfect.
On a day I felt ugly or overwhelmed or unworthy, I could sit down to my dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, sugar-free, carb-free, meat-free portion-controlled meal and feel like I had accomplished something. What is left in the world of food after all that freeness you ask? Vegetables. I wasn't very free at all.
The false belief that I was helping my body, filling it with "goodness" and cutting out the crap, was used to rationalize my unhealthy practices, inducing a sense of fulfillment in me that you might expect to get from a hobby you really like doing.
I didn't like myself, or the way I looked. I didn't feel good enough, ever. I needed to feel in control, ASAP.
Restricting and controlling my diet gave me an answer to all of this. I believed it would make me look better and feel better. It brought me purpose.
Problems came when I was not able to exercise this control over what I was eating, or rather was not able to do this without raising the eyebrows of friends and family. When I found myself in social settings where I had to eat things I couldn't stomach - "fear foods," as I called them - I would later spend hours riddled with shame and guilt over the foods I had consumed, sometimes throwing up to make myself feel clean again.
Where previously I was able to rationalize a plate of pasta, I had lost all sense of what was truly a healthy and balanced meal. At this point, no food really felt safe to eat.
Moving home as college broke for Summer, I wondered how I would be able to conceal my stricter-than-ever eating routine from my parents. They had witnessed my obsession with healthy eating before, but never to this extreme.
Over the Summer, I centered all plans around what I would be able to eat. Plans were only followed through if I was certain I would be able to adhere to my healthy diet plan. More often than not, plans were made only to be broken as the fear of possibly having to eat something I didn't want became overwhelming.
I grew weaker and weaker, only allowing vegetables, fish, and selected nuts to be eaten. I lay awake most nights unable to sleep, listening to the groan of my unsatisfied stomach, feeling satisfied with myself.
An eating disorder never crossed my mind, in the same way sugar never crossed my mouth. I was still eating. I pitied the girls behind the "thinspiration" pages of Tumblr. "If they just ate like I do, they would be thin." I didn't realize they most likely did eat like me, and I was slowly becoming one of them.
That was until one Saturday evening. I looked at myself in the mirror and for the first time in two years, I saw the truth. I was painfully thin, sickly looking. Everything I owned hung off me; I was a walking personified clothes hanger.
I was unhappy, hungry, and exhausted. I was beginning to see flaws in my supreme, all-healing diet. If eating this way was meant to make me feel and look better, why did I feel like a pile of sh*t and look like a bag of bones?
Confessing to this demon came hard; everything else has came easier. Soon, I'll be starting my outpatient treatment where I hope, along with the support of my family and friends, I can recover and begin to rebuild my relationship with food.
To live and act a certain way for years can be impermeable to change. This wasn't a habit - it had become a part of who I was and still am to this day. Freeing myself from this disease that has taken, distorted, weakened every part of me is a long process but I accept the challenge.
I have been saved from myself, but many other people still face the initial battle of recognizing their own truth. I feel lucky to have such amazing people around me who have not judged or shamed me, but not everyone going through the same issue will be as blessed.
Eating disorders need to be given more responsible attention and explored deeply rather than superficially debated. Their limited portrayal in the media is largely stereotypical and highly inaccurate for many cases, using the disease as a source of drama and entertainment in TV shows.
This is an issue which needs to be brought above water and aired to shed the secrecy and shame experienced by those who suffer and to provide them with a means to sound their own alarm.
Our society's obsession with image and the depthless sense of self-worth it can bring is a vehicle for self-destruction amongst young people, and fuels the rising prevalence of eating disorders today. No amount of Dove commercials telling women to love their own bodies can ring out the deafening sound of the beauty industry and their set ideals.
The role of clean eating/elimination diets and our new-found preoccupation with striving for "wellness" through restriction of foods must also not be overlooked when searching for answers in the game of blame. Clean eating, an equally-damaging obsession that's now a cultural norm, is sold to society as essential for achieving full health, when in reality, it's aggressively fueling eating disorders in today's modern world. As a young woman, this mix of insecurity and unattainable perfectionism, whether that be diet or beauty related, is the breeding ground for toxic thoughts and behaviors.
I write this not from a position of recovery and health, but from a place of struggle and empathy. If this incites a feeling of strength or a drive to seek help in someone like myself, then sharing this very personal story will have been worthwhile.
I promise you, people will understand and people can help you. Telling someone how I felt stripped the secrecy, the fulfillment, the rationality away from my behavior and allowed me to be truthful about myself for the first time. I feel free.
More from YourTango:
14 Style Icons Who Make Jeans and a White Tee All Their Own
Jeans and a white t-shirt have become staples in every girl's closet. The unbeatable combo is a go-to when you "have nothing to wear," and you likely need little else to finish your look. But since the classic foundation already provides maximum comfort, why not add a dose of style?
Take a tip from 14 of our absolute favorite style icons, from edgy-meets-sophisticated Kendall Jenner and sporty-girl Gigi to the always feminine Taylor Swift, and learn how to make your next denim outfit all your own.
These Victoria Justice Looks Show She's Not Afraid to Take a Fashion Risk
It was 2005 when Victoria Justice first came into our lives as part of Nickelodeon's Zoey 101, but we feel like it wasn't until 10 years later that we really got to know the Puerto-Rican-American actress. We discovered that she's a lip-syncing master, a big fan of Amy Winehouse, the holder of a supersexy bikini body, all of us on Snapchat, and a boss-like fashion adventurer.
There's not a print or funky-shaped outfit that Victoria would say no to; there's not a cutout that could be misplaced or a jumpsuit too eclectic or risky. If it's fun and loud and never been worn on the red carpet before, Victoria is game! Keep scrolling to see all the times she shocked us with her look in the past couple of years, and then check out her Hollywood evolution.
Why Chocolate-Covered and Weight Loss Do Go Together
Every healthy-eating plan has to allow for a little splurging once in a while. Treating yourself can help satisfy cravings and also prevent you from feeling so deprived that you eat an entire bag of cookies. If chocolate's what your taste buds crave, here are 12 decadent recipes that will satisfy any major sweet tooth.
Why Chocolate-Covered and Weight Loss Do Go Together
Every healthy-eating plan has to allow for a little splurging once in a while. Treating yourself can help satisfy cravings and also prevent you from feeling so deprived that you eat an entire bag of cookies. If chocolate's what your taste buds crave, here are 12 decadent recipes that will satisfy any major sweet tooth.
The Vampire Diaries Cast Unleashed Some Bittersweet Pictures Ahead of the Finale
The Vampire Diaries has officially wrapped, and we're extremely emotional. While we can't wait to see how the series will come to a close, we are definitely having a hard time saying goodbye. Even though the farewells have been bittersweet, we certainly love seeing all of the cast reunions on Instagram. Not only is Nina Dobrev coming back for the finale, but she looks like she's having a blast catching up with her old costars, including her ex and onscreen love interest, Ian Somerhalder. If you love the show just as much as we do, catch some of the sweetest moments here.
10 Lesser-Known Latin American Destinations You Must Visit Before You Die
It's safe to say we've got a never-ending case of wanderlust - so many places to see, so many oceans to swim in, so many Instagram photos to envy! We cannot wait longer, and neither should you, to make our way to Latin America, but not just the usual spots (Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Machu Picchu). We want to go beyond! Here we've rounded up a list of nontouristy locations to see across Latin and Central America. Get planning now!
These 24 Valentines Will Make Every Disney-Lover's Heart Explode
With Valentine's Day quickly approaching, show your kids how much you love them by embracing one of their biggest passions: everything Disney. Your little one won't be able to wait for his or her class party to hand out these super cool treats, from personalized Frozen goodie bags to classic Mickey and Minnie cards.
Check out these 24 adorable Disney class exchange ideas to help your child have the best Valentine's Day yet!
These Are, Hands Down, Jennifer and Justin's Sweetest Moments
Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux got engaged in August 2012, and they tied the knot in 2015 in a top-secret wedding in LA. The cute couple first met on the set of Wanderlust back in 2010, and since then, they've shared tons of sweet moments, from red carpet cuteness to steamy beach PDA. To celebrate the happy couple, look back at Jennifer and Justin's most adorable moments together!
6 Spa Facials That Women of Color Should Try For Glowing Skin
There are few beauty experiences more pampering than a luxurious facial. But for women of color, that moment of relaxation can morph into a nightmare pretty quickly if your face is left in the wrong hands. At times, melanin-rich skin can be a breeding ground for issues like hyperpigmentation, acne, and dryness, leading to an unflattering gray cast.
If you bundle these issues with a facialist who isn't well-versed in dark skin, you'll no doubt regret booking that spa appointment in the first place. The last thing you need is scarring after a chemical peel gone wrong or a mask that aggravates acne you've spent too many sleepless nights trying to heal.
We consulted with some of our favorite spas to discover the best facials to keep darker skin looking fab. Read on for the details, and cheers to glowing skin!
1. Bliss Spa: No 'Zit' Sherlock Facial
The facial: On deep complexions, acne can leave behind dark spots that can take forever to fade. Bliss Spa's No 'Zit' Sherlock treatment (75 mins, $175) includes extractions as well as a gel-based peel with a blend of salicylic and mandelic acids that help reduce hyperpigmentation caused by acne and sun damage. The peel also works to combat bacteria linked to acne. The treatment wraps with a soothing seaweed mask, which tightens pores and leaves skin feeling smooth.
Why it works for dark skin: This facial is a good option for those with oily and acne-prone skin, as the salicylic and mandelic acids help control sebum production. According to Bliss Spa technician Nandi Wagner, there's another major benefit for women of color. "Some alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic and lactic acids, have been known to irritate the skin and can lead to an increase in pigmentation issues for women of color," Wagner notes. "The combination of salicylic and mandelic acids is safer to use for deeper skin tones because they provide the exfoliation of other AHAs without the irritation."
2. Clarins: Even Skin Perfector Facial
The facial: Clarins stresses that the key to treating discoloration is choosing a treatment that keeps the overall tone of your skin intact. The Even Skin Perfector facial (50 mins, $75; 80 mins, $95) does just that with powerful acerola extract, a wild cherry from South America that's chock-full of vitamin C.
Why it works for dark skin: "Acerola extract targets pigmentation directly by slowing down the production of melanin," says Milana Knowles, senior director of spa development at Clarins. This is an especially good treatment to try after excessive sun exposure, as UV rays stimulate the production of dark spots. "Acerola extract reduces overproduction and subsequently restores a normal level of melanin synthesis," she says.
3. Exhale: Power Facial
The facial: Whether you're struggling with signs of aging, acne, or sun damage, Exhale's Power Facial (60 mins, $245) can meet your needs with its advanced peel and innovative Coolbeam laser. You'll start with an exfoliating mask to revive dull, dehydrated skin, followed by extractions to unclog pores and detoxification. To close, the esthetician treats skin with either Coolbeam or ultrasonic therapies.
Why it works for dark skin: The Power Facial is a great choice for women of color who tend to suffer from dry skin. The facial's Z Peel contains Mucor Miehei Japanese mushroom enzymes that are known to plump, brighten, and soften fine lines. "The Z Peel mimics the skin's own cell turnover process, making it both gentle and effective," says Laura Benge, Exhale's national spa director.
4. Joanna Vargas: Triple Crown Facial
The facial: There's a reason why celebrities love Joanna Vargas's Triple Crown facial (60 mins, $250; $550 with Joanna). The mix of exfoliation and soothing oxygen therapy removes impurities and dead cells and allows products to penetrate more deeply into the skin. The gentle exfoliation also helps to even out the skin tone, which is helpful for women of color suffering from hyperpigmentation. Bonus: the use of oxygen is anti-inflammatory and boosts collagen production.
Why it works for dark skin: "As a Latin woman, I pride myself on understanding skin of all tones," says Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skin Care Collection. "The Triple Crown Facial works great for women of color in particular because it is not product-heavy. Many women of color have extremely sensitive skin and any type of inflammation in the skin could result in long-lasting discoloration."
5. LaVida Massage: Ultrasonic Facial
The facial: Acne-prone skin in particular is the perfect candidate for a treatment involving a deep cleaning method. With the Ultrasonic Facial (60 mins, $85 for members, $115 for non-members), a light paddle is used to deliver a low-frequency ultrasonic vibration that lifts dirt from the face and loosens dead skin cells. The machine flushes the skin with water to remove dirt from pores, and steam might be added for more intense results. The treatment includes Dermalogica products like a brightening serum and a mask to revitalize the skin.
Why it works for dark skin: The Ultrasonic Facial involves a thorough cleaning and is also customizable, making it a great option for women of color with specific skin concerns ranging from acne to dullness. And there's one other benefit: anti-aging effects. "The Ultrasonic Facial Treatment is recommended for those seeking anti-aging benefits because of the fantastic lifting properties associated with the method," says Joy LaPointe, the skin therapist and manager at LaVida Massage's location in Brighton, Michigan.
LaPointe recommends clients with hyperpigmentation follow up the Ultrasonic Facial with Dermalogica's PowerBright TRx Treatment Kit ($40), featuring the C-12 Pure Bright Serum for hyperpigmentation, Pure Light (SPF50), and Pure Night, a nourishing overnight treatment moisturizer to maintain luminous results.
6. Red Door Spa: Skin Illuminating Advanced Brightening Facial
The facial: Elizabeth Arden's Skin Illuminating Advanced Brightening Facial (65 mins, $145-$160 based on location) is the answer for treating hyperpigmentation and dry skin.
Why it works for dark skin: It addresses dark spots, uneven skin tone, and complexions lacking the healthy glow we all strive for. A mix of vitamins A, B3, and C; licorice extract; and exfoliants, including melting microbeads and natural enzymes, work to target excess melanin production in the skin to boost brightness and promote hydration. The facial's use of salicylic acid "delivers anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to heal and reduce inflammation from breakouts and balance excess oil production," says Ann Balaguera, Elizabeth Arden's national director of esthetics. Because of this, women of color with any scarring or discoloration issues would find this facial especially helpful. For optimal results, a series of six to eight treatments is recommended.
The Unexpected Reason Makeup Artists Are Protecting Their Beautyblenders With Condoms
If an effort to re-create the impressively efficient SiliSponge makeup blender, vloggers and makeup aficionados across the internet are hacking their Beautyblender sponges by tucking them inside condoms. Yep, you read that correctly, condoms. While we never thought we'd be rubbing our faces with makeup-covered latex, it's proving to be quite the logical tactic for application. Beauty vlogger Laila Tahri tested out the condom trick for her followers and was pleasantly surprised.
"I came up with this idea because I love using a sponge, but it absorbs so much product," Laila explained on Instagram. "Using the condom around it, it doesn't absorb any product and it applies super smooth!"
In the same way that the popular silicone sponge doesn't absorb foundation, the latex condom prevents the Beautyblender from soaking up makeup and reportedly guarantees a smooth application. If you're worried about how lubrication could possibly work well with your favorite foundatino formula, you're not alone. Laila points out that the most important thing to do before trying this technique is to clean off the condom's spermicide and lubricant, and then it's time to get to work.
Keep reading to see Laila's full tutorial using a condom to apply her foundation, and then see more possibilities of condoms for makeup application.
Ciara Flaunts Her Baby Bump as She Dances Around the House to Whitney Houston
#ImEveryWoman! It's All In Me! 💃🏽👨👩👧👦❤️
Choreography by @galenhooks
Filmed by @timmilgram http://pic.twitter.com/kARMm1FjtF- Ciara (@ciara) February 11, 2017
Ciara has the music in her. On Saturday, the singer, who is currently expecting her second child, flaunted her growing baby bump as she danced around to Whitney Houston's "I'm Every Woman" on the 5-year-anniversary of her death. Not only does she have some serious moves as she shimmies her way through the house in a form-fitting tank top, a white button-down, and black leggings, but her husband, Russell Wilson, and her 2-year-old son Future, whom she shares from her previous relationship with the rapper of the same name, also make a sweet cameo.
14 Beauty Products That Will Turn You On
Aside from being a beauty editor, the dream job we aspired to while growing up, was being the person who came up with all the clever names on makeup packaging. While some shades may be less than inspiring ("warm beige," anyone?) and others are just silly, there are a few brands that go for shock value. And these are, in our opinion, the most naughtily named, titillating product titles. From the aptly dubbed Lashgasm mascara to the unabashed Sex eye shadow, these beautifiers are bound to ruffle a few feathers . . . in a good way. But be warned - at least one of them is NSFW!
Kick Carbs to the Curb With These Snacks
Going low carb can help many people shed a few pounds if done right. Try it yourself with these low-carb snacks; easy to make, many of these are also high in good-for-you nutrients like antioxidants, protein, and fiber.
Kick Carbs to the Curb With These Snacks
Going low carb can help many people shed a few pounds if done right. Try it yourself with these low-carb snacks; easy to make, many of these are also high in good-for-you nutrients like antioxidants, protein, and fiber.
Pump and Dump No More! If You Breastfeed, You Can Still Drink Without Wasting Milk
Beast milk is held so highly in regard that it's been called "liquid gold." So if you are a mom with breasts that overfloweth, should you be wasting said gold by pumping and dumping for the sake of a beer at a holiday party? Well, as it turns out, pitching breast milk may no longer be the only way out if you're dying to indulge in a cocktail.
Although there are plenty of myths surrounding the topic of drinking and breastfeeding - apparently Guinness is great for your milk supply?! - several studies have shown that very little alcohol will appear in your milk even if you've had a few cold ones (and even less will be ingested by your baby). Also, because the amount of alcohol in your milk closely emulates your blood alcohol level - and you don't have to throw out your blood after drinking - you don't actually have to get rid of that milk. You simply need to wait until the alcohol has been processed through your system and you've sobered up.
But what if a breastfeeding mom chooses to have more than one glass of wine at a New Year's Eve party? It has not only been found that a lactating mother's blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, seems to rise much slower than that of other women, but also, even though a baby takes twice as long to process alcohol in his system, little of the alcohol consumed by his mother will actually be present in the milk in the first place (as demonstrated in the example below).
If a 150-pound nursing mom downs four alcoholic drinks - say, four 5-ounce glasses of table wine - and then breastfeeds her 13-pound baby 4 ounces of milk when she's at her tipsiest, her baby will end up with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.0038 percent - the same blood alcohol concentration her mom would have after consuming a mere 1.5 ounces of Bud Light (one-eighth of a 12-ounce bottle).
So while it has been noted that alcohol could decrease the amount of milk you make - meaning having to feed your little one a bit more frequently until your supply is back up - it turns out that "even in a theoretical case of binge-drinking, the children would not be subjected to clinically relevant amounts of alcohol." That being the case, we may finally be able to get rid of the term "pump and dump" once and for all.
This Baker's Pastel Cake Creations Will Give You Magical Unicorn Vibes
Milk and Water Baking Co.'s baker (in Ontario, Canada) concocts gorgeously decorated cakes and cupcakes and posts the stunning creations to her Instagram account. The expertly decorated treats look almost magical, and the pastel swirls are giving off some serious unicorn vibes.
If you'd like to create your own sweet treats like hers, learning isn't too difficult. The baker fills several colors of frosting side by side in an icing bag to create the incredible tie-dye patterns, just like Brandi Milloy does in this unicorn cupcakes video. To create the unique texture, the baker uses #104 tips to pipe on the petals and other floral details. The baker also uses star icing tips to dot on the star shapes and to swirl on the frosting to create the roses.
Read on to get inspired by these breathtaking creations.
16 Reasons Elijah Is the Best Part of Girls
On Sunday, Girls will officially be back in our lives for a sixth and final season, and while we are excited to see the ladies again, we're beyond happy to be reunited with Elijah. Played by Andrew Rannells, Elijah's unflinching honesty is hilarious, his facial expressions are the best, and he's always there for Hannah, even through some terrible life choices. In celebration of the last collection of episodes, let's celebrate Elijah for the special snowflake he is.
Laura Mercier's Iconic Setting Powder Now Comes in a Shade For Brown Girls
Whether you contour faithfully or take a minimalist approach to your daily makeup routine, there's no denying the importance of having a great setting powder. Lightly dusting your face with a semiopaque pigment helps keep your makeup in place all day. It also absorbs oils and cancels shine to keep your skin matte for hours.
One of my all-time favorite setting powders - and possibly the best one of its kind - is Laura Mercier's Translucent Setting Powder ($38). It launched back in the '90s and has been one of the brand's bestsellers. In fact, it's so good, it has over 290,000 loves and 4,000 reviews on Sephora.com. It's also earned a four-star rating . . . but in my opinion is more deserving of five stars. One light swipe immediately hides excess shine around my T-zone and makes my skin appear filtered IRL. The powder also promises an oil-free face for hours and actually delivers. However, there's a good chance that the brand didn't achieve that perfect rating because the sheer pigment may not have worked for women with dark skin.
Now, the brand has made its hero powder all the more covetable by extending the range to include a medium-deep shade for women with darker complexions. Though the traditional powder looks completely transparent on a spectrum of skin tones, it may appear ashy or cause an embarrassing flashback in photos on deeper skin. The brand created the new shade to ensure that women with warm complexions can achieve a completely translucent and flawless finish. Like the original natural hue, you can use this to lightly absorb oil, set your makeup, and bake your face.
Finding flattering makeup products is a common struggle for women of color, so we're excited that Laura Mercier is continuing to diversify its product range. Now, so many more makeup junkies can experience the magic of the Translucent Setting Powder and feel confident about achieving a flawless complexion. Snag the new shade at Sephora.com now!
This Affordable Rose Blush Is Better Than a Valentine's Day Bouquet
Rosy hues are having a moment in the beauty world, and if you're still on the hunt for the perfect Valentine's Day gift idea to send to your significant other, this rose powder blush from Milani is for you. At just $9, it's an affordable alternative to Lancome's coveted rose highlighter, and it comes in gorgeous rose shades named "romantic rose," "warm petals," "tea rose," and more.
The best part is these blushes are sure to last long after the real roses wither away. According to Allure, it is one of the top pinned products on Pinterest. So you may want to keep staring at it long after the romantic holiday.
Keep reading to fall in love with these rose beauties.
The 1 Reason Christian Grey Looks So Much Sexier in Fifty Shades Darker
If you find yourself getting slightly more aroused watching Fifty Shades Darker than you did first movie, we have a theory.
There was backlash against Fifty Shades of Grey claiming that Jamie Dornan's portrayal of Christian Grey just wasn't hot enough. So this time Jamie brought it - and a little something extra. And by that, we are referring to the slight scruff on his chiseled face.
According to a USA Today interview, Dornan prepped for the sequel by tanning, getting more muscle mass, and growing some scruff. "Shaving every day sucks," he said. "It's also a weird psychological thing, but . . . I feel very exposed and naked with a shaved face."
This is a diversion from author E L James's portrayal of the character. In the books, Christian is described as clean-shaven. Hey, this guy is - um - anal and pretty type A. But as we said, fans complained that Jamie-as-Christian needed to be edgier and many wanted him to rock a bit of facial hair. There was even a petition for him to sport some stubble.
Team Beard won, and if you can't tell from the photos, Jamie looks smokin'. That said, any time a movie diverts from the book, fans tend to get riled up. So, which do you prefer: clean-cut Christian or stubbly Christian?
New Christian:
Old Christian:
Why Fans Are Furious With Kylie Jenner Over These 2 Lip Kits
In today's Kylie Cosmetics controversy, fans are taking to Twitter to accuse the star of repackaging existing shades as limited edition - and charging more for them. Some shoppers claim that the permanent Spice Lip Kit ($29), which the brand describes as a deepened raspberry-plum, is the exact same hue as Blitzen. Blitzen appeared exclusively in a $45 lip kit quartet that launched over the holidays.
To prove their point, owners of both shades have swatched them out side-by-side. "Why are Spice and Blitzen the same exact shade just different packaging?," queried Twitter user @__calverez. "I'm so mad." While those who purchased Blitzen admittedly did receive four lip products for just six dollars more than one lip kit, we understand the frustration. Beauty collectors take great care in staying informed when it comes to new launches. It makes sense that someone would feel duped after buying what they thought was a new shade only to discover it's something they already own.
Kylie Cosmetics has yet to respond to the allegations, but read on to see the controversial swatches to make your own conclusions.
24 Kate Middleton GIFs That Will Make You Say "Me"
At first thought, it may not seem like there's anything relatable about Kate Middleton - yes, she may have been considered a commoner when she first married Prince William, but these days she's a card-carrying member of the royal family, right up there in cultural significance with Queen Elizabeth II herself. But for all of her very, very princess-like moments, Kate occasionally shows sides of herself that prove she might be just as normal as we are after all.
Your Heart Is Going to Melt Over These Lovable Valentine's Day Marble Nails
You've got your lingerie, a flawless red lipstick, and a delicious, romantic meal planned and ready to go, but now it's time to make your manicure the finishing touch on your already perfect Valentine's Day - and we've found the perfect look. These water marble heart nails from the Cutepolish nail art channel has us counting down the days until Feb. 14, when we can show off this charming style. The marbled look may seem difficult, but we promise: if you follow the steps, these homemade nail decals are easy to create.
Keep reading to see how to DIY this stunning look. Then, check out these other 20 dreamy Valentine's Day nail art ideas.
6 Fascinating and Haunting Facts About the JonBenét Ramsey Murder Case
This year marks 21 years since 6-year-old beauty queen JonBenét Ramsey was found murdered in her family home, and the cold case is still just as captivating as it was in December 1996. JonBenét's father, John, was the one who found her body on Christmas Day in the basement of their Boulder, CO, home roughly eight hours after her parents reported her missing after they found a ransom note. An autopsy of JonBenét's body later revealed that she was struck in the head and strangled to death.
Because the 20-year anniversary just passed, interest in the case is once again picking up steam. A number of TV specials aired, including The Killing of JonBenét: The Truth Uncovered, JonBenét: An American Murder Mystery, The Case Of: JonBenét Ramsey, and Who Killed JonBenét?. Netflix has picked up a documentary called Casting JonBenét, which will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Here are six facts about one of the most haunting and heartbreaking murders in recent history:
1. JonBenét suffered a horrific death.
The stunning little girl was found wrapped in her white blanket with a nylon cord around her neck, her wrists tied above her head, and duct tape over her mouth. Evidence later showed that she was hit over the head with a blunt object, which knocked her unconscious. Sometime between 45 minutes to two hours after she was knocked out, she was strangled to death with a piece of cord and the handle from a broken paintbrush. Police also later confirmed that she had been sexually assaulted.
2. The ransom note posed more questions than answers.
JonBenét's mother, Patsy, told police that she realized her daughter was missing after she found a two-and-a-half-page ransom note in their home. The letter demanded the Ramseys pay $118,000 for their daughter's safe return, which was also almost the exact amount her father, John, had recently received as a work bonus. Police later determined that the note was written on a piece of paper from a notebook inside the Ramsey home. Both John and Patsy then underwent handwriting tests, and while police were able to say that John didn't write it, Patsy's test results were labeled "inconclusive."
3. There was no sign of a break-in.
Police found no signs of forced entry in or around the Ramsey home. The only people known to have been in the house on the night of the murder were Patsy, John, and JonBenét's older brother, Burke, who was 9 years old at the time.
4. Police were criticized for making crucial mistakes.
Shortly after police arrived, they failed to completely seal off the crime scene, allowing family members and friends to enter and leave the house. Critics of the case also claim that investigators failed to gather sufficient forensic evidence before and after JonBenét's body was found. Many people believe this is because they had already made up their minds that the Ramseys were guilty and didn't feel the need to gather evidence proving otherwise.
5. Both of JonBenét's parents as well as her older brother, Burke, were considered suspects.
Because it seemed so unlikely that kidnappers would kill their victim, leave the body in their own home, and still leave behind a ransom note, police were quick to turn their suspicions to John, Patsy, and Burke. Boulder police believed for many years that on the night of the murder, Patsy injured JonBenét in a fit of rage and either killed her while still angry or killed her to cover up the injury. In 1999, a Colorado grand jury voted to indict Patsy and John because they believed they were abusive toward their daughter, which eventually led to murder. In 2008, two years after Patsy died of ovarian cancer, prosecutors officially cleared the family of any wrongdoing. Burke also recently sat down for an interview with Dr. Phil about the case, which will air in mid-September.
6. There is still unexplained DNA evidence.
In December 2003, investigators retested a blood sample found on JonBenét's underwear, which was revealed to belong to an unidentified male who was not related to the Ramsey family. To this day, investigators have not been able to identify who the DNA belongs to, and the case remains open.
Is There a Best New Artist Curse? What Happened to These 25 Grammy Winners
This year's Grammy nominees for best new artist are Kelsea Ballerini, The Chainsmokers, Chance the Rapper, Maren Morris, and Anderson .Paak - it's undoubtedly going to be a heated race for the coveted award, whose past recipients include household names like The Beatles, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, and Maroon 5. While those musicians' careers are still firmly intact, there are a handful of other best new artist winners who haven't fared so well (for example, Paula Cole once asked us, "Where have all the cowboys gone?" but now we're just left wondering where she's gone). In honor of the upcoming show, we're looking into the status of some of the past best new artist award winners. Keep reading to see what's become of them, and let us know whether you think they've avoided a curse or not.
A Really Good Day: How microdosing LSD helped Ayelet Waldman pull back from the depths of depression
Ayelet Waldman is a former public defender and mother of four who says she has never tripped hallucinogenic drugs. But not long ago, she started microdosing LSD to help manage her depression. She says the experience changed her life and she's written a book about it called "A Really Good Day: How Microdosing Made a Mega Difference in My Mood, My Marriage, and My Life."
After This 30-Day Challenge, You'll Have the Best Butt Ever
Squat challenges are all the rage now, and while it certainly is an accomplishment to work your way up to 200, 500, or even 1,000 squats (yikes!), doing the same kind only works certain muscles. Here's a new challenge for you to try. It involves five different squat variations that you repeat and eventually work up to 200 reps in 30 days.
Here are instructions for the five different variations followed by a 30-day plan to get you all the way to 200. It's not advised to skip right to day 30 if you want to be able to walk the next day, so follow the plan and adjust it slightly according to your schedule and ability level. For a quick guide, here's a printable version of this Squat Challenge.
Number 1: Narrow Squat
- Stand with your feet touching. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply, bringing your thighs parallel with the floor if you can. Be sure to keep weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 2: Narrow Squat With Back Kick
- Stand with your feet touching. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest or on your hips, and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor. Be sure to keep weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, and lift the left leg behind you for a back kick. Lower the foot back to the floor in a narrow squat position.
- Do another squat, then straighten the leg, do a back kick with the right leg, and step the right foot back to meet the left.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 3: Basic Squat
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width distance apart, feet parallel. Hold your hands out in front of you for balance. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply, bringing your thighs parallel with the floor if you can, keeping weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
Here's a video demonstrating the basic squat.
Number 4: Basic Squat With Side Leg Lift
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width distance apart, feet parallel. Hold your hands out in front of you for balance. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor, keeping weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, and lifting the left leg out to the side, squeezing the outer glute.
- As you step the foot back into shoulder-width distance position, squat down again. Then stand up and do a side leg lift on the right side. Lower the leg back to the starting position.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 5: Sumo Squat
- Stand with your feet wide, toes pointing out. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor. Make sure to keep weight back in your heels
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
The Plan
Unlike other squat challenges, this involves five different variations to not only sculpt your legs and booty more effectively, but also to beat boredom and prevent overuse injuries. This plan incorporates rest days, so while you can hold off on squats that day, you can (and should) still do other workouts to target your nonsquatting muscles.
The Most Thoughtful Valentine's Day Gifts For Grandparents
If you didn't have the chance to find special gifts for the grandparents over the holidays, now's the time to really step things up and show them some Valentine's Day love. Art, glassware, games, keepsakes - we've gathered a variety of thoughtful gift options you can personalize before Feb. 14. From brag books to bookmarks, these creative presents will wow your little ones' grandparents.
A Really Good Day: How microdosing LSD helped Ayelet Waldman pull back from the depths of depression
Ayelet Waldman is a former public defender and mother of four who says she has never tripped hallucinogenic drugs. But not long ago, she started microdosing LSD to help manage her depression. She says the experience changed her life and she's written a book about it called "A Really Good Day: How Microdosing Made a Mega Difference in My Mood, My Marriage, and My Life."
After This 30-Day Challenge, You'll Have the Best Butt Ever
Squat challenges are all the rage now, and while it certainly is an accomplishment to work your way up to 200, 500, or even 1,000 squats (yikes!), doing the same kind only works certain muscles. Here's a new challenge for you to try. It involves five different squat variations that you repeat and eventually work up to 200 reps in 30 days.
Here are instructions for the five different variations followed by a 30-day plan to get you all the way to 200. It's not advised to skip right to day 30 if you want to be able to walk the next day, so follow the plan and adjust it slightly according to your schedule and ability level. For a quick guide, here's a printable version of this Squat Challenge.
Number 1: Narrow Squat
- Stand with your feet touching. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply, bringing your thighs parallel with the floor if you can. Be sure to keep weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 2: Narrow Squat With Back Kick
- Stand with your feet touching. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest or on your hips, and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor. Be sure to keep weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, and lift the left leg behind you for a back kick. Lower the foot back to the floor in a narrow squat position.
- Do another squat, then straighten the leg, do a back kick with the right leg, and step the right foot back to meet the left.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 3: Basic Squat
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width distance apart, feet parallel. Hold your hands out in front of you for balance. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply, bringing your thighs parallel with the floor if you can, keeping weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
Here's a video demonstrating the basic squat.
Number 4: Basic Squat With Side Leg Lift
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width distance apart, feet parallel. Hold your hands out in front of you for balance. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor, keeping weight back in your heels.
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, and lifting the left leg out to the side, squeezing the outer glute.
- As you step the foot back into shoulder-width distance position, squat down again. Then stand up and do a side leg lift on the right side. Lower the leg back to the starting position.
- This counts as one rep.
Number 5: Sumo Squat
- Stand with your feet wide, toes pointing out. Hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced and bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor. Make sure to keep weight back in your heels
- Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
The Plan
Unlike other squat challenges, this involves five different variations to not only sculpt your legs and booty more effectively, but also to beat boredom and prevent overuse injuries. This plan incorporates rest days, so while you can hold off on squats that day, you can (and should) still do other workouts to target your nonsquatting muscles.
The Scary Reason Your Favorite Sargento Cheeses Are Being Recalled
Sargento is recalling several of its cheese products due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The Indiana-based company released a statement about the scary recall, writing,
"Food safety is our number one priority at Sargento. We are vigilantly monitoring this issue to ensure the situation will be resolved in a timely manner. Our unwavering commitment to safety is at the core of everything we do at Sargento. We are in full cooperation with the federal Food and Drug Administration to rigorously investigate and resolve this issue."
A total of seven of Sargento cheeses are including in the recall, as noted below:
- Sargento Ultra Thin Sliced Longhorn Colby
- Sargento Chef Blends Shredded Nacho & Taco Cheese
- Sargento Sliced Colby-Jack Cheese
- Sargento Sliced Pepper Jack Cheese
- Sargento Chef Blends Shredded Taco Cheese
- Sargento Off The Block Shredded Fine Cut Colby-Jack Cheese
- Sargento Off The Block Shredded Fine Cut Cheddar Jack Cheese
To find out if any of your Sargento products have been recalled, use the "Search Product" tool on the Sargento website, and then be sure to toss those cheeses in the trash bin as a safety precaution.
The Fall Nail Trends You Need to Know From the NYFW Runway
If you've been searching for nail inspiration to take a basic manicure to the next level, look no further than the Fall '17 runways. We've rounded up your favorite designers' masterpieces, so take note! By mastering these graphic designs and minimalist manicures now, you'll be superstylish well before these talons trend this Fall.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best White T-Shirt of Your Life
You think you've found a favorite white tee. You reach for it an embarrassing amount of times in just one week, and when it's not folded up neatly in your drawer, you kind of freak out a little, praying it's just in the hamper. But is it truly your perfect match? There are plenty of brands out there you've probably never heard of, some of which might make the right fit for you.
There's only one way to find out if a t-shirt's up to par: by wearing it. That's why we polled our editors and asked them to share their go-tos, along with a brief description of the structure, slouch, and feel of the top. The results are in, and surprisingly (or perhaps not), Everlane, Madewell, Hanes, and ATM got the most votes. But if those aren't for you, scroll to read up on 14 standout options - they're all a bit different, but we promise each one will look good tucked into your jeans.
Chrissy Teigen Wanted to Wear a 1-Piece For Her Sports Illustrated Shoot - Until She Saw This Bikini
When Chrissy Teigen arrived to her Sports Illustrated swim shoot, the supermodel was hesitant to try on a bikini. This would be the first time she was posing post baby, after all. "She showed up telling me she would only shoot one-pieces, and if I could throw a blanket over the top of her, that would be great," editor MJ Day said.
But after embracing her natural glow on the beach, Chrissy quickly changed her mind, changing into printed string designs in various shades of purple. "By the end of [the shoot], I think she was wearing nothing," MJ said.
Chrissy weighed in too: "MJ's right, and I don't want to say this to her, but the tinier the suit, the smaller and hotter you look. Ugh, I hate that. I hate that she's right!"
It's easy to see why Chrissy felt so confident after studying her shots with photographer James Macari. This year's iconic issue will include women of all shapes and sizes, continuing its strive for diversity. Read on to watch a BTS clip of Chrissy filming, then check out one of her finalized images and shop the boho-inspired bikini, complete with beaded tassels at the sides and a vibrant color palette Chrissy pulls off with ease.
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