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 25 mars 2017
Why I'm a Makeup Flip-Flopper
I love wearing makeup; a deep red lip and a bold brow are two of my favorite accessories. I also love not wearing makeup, giving my skin the freedom to breathe, moisten, detox. When it comes to makeup vs. no makeup, I'm firmly on both sides of the issue.
The author in full makeup.
Many of you might argue that makeup isn't an "issue," and I agree. As women, we have more important issues to worry about right now, which is why I'm glad that makeup is part of the conversation. Maybe the more we talk about women not wearing makeup, such as Alicia Keys going barefaced at the VMAs and Hillary Clinton wearing little to no makeup in her first post-election appearance, the less it will be newsworthy when a woman opts out of makeup.
Recent movements such as the Power of Makeup challenge, which encouraged women to share photos with makeup on just one side of their faces, have made me rethink my own relationship with it. The day I arrived at work barefaced for our Power of Makeup photo shoot, I admitted I had become a makeup addict without realizing it.
The author trying the Power of Makeup challenge.
In college and in my early 20s, I often wore little to no makeup, but as I got older, my no-makeup days grew fewer and far between, becoming pretty much nonexistent by the time I reached my 30s. Partly it's because I love makeup. I enjoy the ongoing quest for the perfect foundation, concealer, and mascara. I love trying out new products, like the matte liquid lipstick trend, and experimenting with new techniques, such as strobing. I enjoy the process of putting on makeup every day, for reasons I can't explain or justify.
I had become a makeup addict without realizing it.But a couple of years ago, I realized I had become so used to the way my face looked with makeup that I no longer liked my face without it. I rarely left the house without at least some makeup, even on weekends. For at least five years, maybe more, the only time I skipped makeup on the weekends was if I didn't leave the house. On vacation, I applied makeup even when I was the only one who cared. I preferred the way I looked with makeup on. None of that bothered me - until one day it did.
I started by mixing up my routine during the week: when I was in the mood, I'd still go all-out with every step of my routine: foundation, eye shadow, highlighter, and a brief flirtation with contouring I have since abandoned. But other days, I opted more for the minimal makeup I'd once reserved for weekends: tinted moisturizer, mascara, and blush. The change took some getting used to, especially when I saw myself in the harsh light of the office bathroom, but eventually it started to feel normal.
After a few weeks of dabbling in the minimal makeup look at work, I opted to skip makeup entirely one weekend. As I got into the car on my way to meet friends, I remember saying to my boyfriend, "I didn't put on any makeup today. I feel like I look terrible." Like any good boyfriend should, he replied, "I think you look pretty." Then he added in all honesty: "I think I like it better." While I appreciated his reassurance, I still preferred how I looked with makeup, and I had no intention of denying myself what I wanted based on his opinion.
The world did not end that day, but I changed - not because of what my boyfriend had said, but because of my experience. I felt grateful that I hadn't wasted my time on makeup that no one cared about but me. I realized I could feel comfortable without it. As I started going makeup-free more often on the weekends, my bare face stopped looking weird to me. In the past, my skin without makeup looked washed-out and uneven to me; I didn't feel like myself when I looked in the mirror. But once I got used to it, my bare face looked normal, even pretty. Going makeup-free on the weekends changed my perception of my face without adornment, and suddenly, makeup didn't seem as essential.
Since then, makeup-free weekends have become my norm and so have makeup-free vacations. I no longer hate the photos of me without makeup on vacation. I stopped feeling like I needed makeup to help me look more polished when I went out to dinner on Saturday nights. If I wanted a little boost, I'd put on some lip color, but that was it.
The author wearing no makeup.
I have yet to go entirely makeup-free at work, because it feels like part of my professional persona. Since I dress casually and make very little effort with my hair, makeup is my way of looking polished in the office. However, I have joined video calls from home without makeup, which I never would have done two years ago. Eventually, maybe I'll even take the no-makeup plunge at work, or not. What matters is that it's my face, and I can do whatever I want with it.
8 Toxic Ingredients You Should Never Use in Your Skin Care Routine
Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Tata Harper's farm in Vermont, and it blew my mind. It should not have been so shocking. I've been a fan of her natural-ingredient, eco-friendly skin care and makeup line for years. It's ideal for my sensitive skin, and everything smells deliciously botanical with milky, silky textures. But actually seeing the farm-to-vanity process of these products made me realize: they are the real deal.
These are not products that claim to have organic ingredients but are still packed with "processed" stuff. In fact, most Tata Harper formulas have the shelf life of just a few months. She pointed out: why would you want to put something on your face with enough preservatives to make it last for years? Gross. (I immediately went home after the trip and threw away a ton of expired formulas.)
"I started Tata Harper Skincare after my stepfather was diagnosed with cancer," she told me via email. "Through all of the doctor's appointments I learned so much about lifestyle and how little decisions affect health and wellbeing. That's when I started really researching ingredients, and discovered that a lot of the ingredients with the most potential health risks aren't even there to give results; they're just fillers like preservatives, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners designed to keep the formula stable and give the product its texture. I only use natural ingredients because I believe that no woman should have to compromise her health for her beauty, especially if those ingredients aren't even making her beautiful!"
The more I learned about natural ingredients, the more I only wanted to use them. Every time I wash my face with Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser, I envision the apricot seed powder exfoliating my skin and the French pink clay detoxifying it. Or when I nourish my face with the Rejuvenating Serum, I know rosehip seed oil is rejuvenating my under-eye area, while Spanish lavender extract is relaxing fine lines.
If you are eager to get informed about the harmful ingredients in your skin care products, as well as natural ones to look for instead, keep reading. Tata Harper herself breaks down what to ditch, what to use, and why.
Kate McKinnon Completely Transforms During a Very Short SNL Commercial Break
After five years on Saturday Night Live, Kate McKinnon is basically an old pro at this point. Every week, the hilarious star transforms into some of pop culture's most well-known figures, including Hillary Clinton and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, as well as some fictional characters, including an alien abductee and a mermaid named Shud. While Kate's comedic timing and facial expressions make every line hilarious, her makeup is also a key part of bringing everything together. In a video from the show's March 11 episode, Kate is seen exiting the stage after portraying Sessions on "Weekend Update" and heading straight for the makeup chair to be turned into Shud. Since the crew only has a short commercial break to make it all happen, their attention to detail in the incredibly fast-paced environment is so impressive. Watch the Rough Night star's transformation take place in just four minutes in the video above.
Kate McKinnon Completely Transforms During a Very Short SNL Commercial Break
After five years on Saturday Night Live, Kate McKinnon is basically an old pro at this point. Every week, the hilarious star transforms into some of pop culture's most well-known figures, including Hillary Clinton and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, as well as some fictional characters, including an alien abductee and a mermaid named Shud. While Kate's comedic timing and facial expressions make every line hilarious, her makeup is also a key part of bringing everything together. In a video from the show's March 11 episode, Kate is seen exiting the stage after portraying Sessions on "Weekend Update" and heading straight for the makeup chair to be turned into Shud. Since the crew only has a short commercial break to make it all happen, their attention to detail in the incredibly fast-paced environment is so impressive. Watch the Rough Night star's transformation take place in just four minutes in the video above.
9 White Button-Downs That Are Anything but Boring
Crisp, clean, and classic are just some of the adjectives people use when describing a white button-down shirt. When it comes to wardrobe essentials, a white button-down is always somewhere toward the top of the list, right next to the little black dress and a tailored blazer. A button-down is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own because it's easy to dress up or down.
But not all button-downs have to look the same. There are so many variations of the classic silhouette, each one completely different than the next. Whoever thinks white button-downs are solely reserved for the office obviously hasn't seen the trendy options ahead. From off-the-shoulder silhouettes to bell sleeves, these nine white button-downs feature the freshest details.
Your Hate Toward Donald Trump Should Not Be Directed at His 10-Year-Old Son
Update: Although Katie Rich deleted her tweet about Barron Trump within hours of posting it, according to "someone familiar with the plans at SNL who was not authorized by NBC to comment on personnel matters," Rich was suspended indefinitely after posting the tweet.
Original Story: I can easily think back to when I was 10 years old, riding my bike around the neighborhood with my friends, rushing to the family TV to watch Disney Channel Original Movies every night at 8 p.m., going to the local Friendly's to celebrate soccer team wins and friends' birthdays. Being 10 is pretty simple, unless you're the 10-year-old son of the current president of the United States.
I'll lead with a disclaimer: I am not a fan of Trump. I will never be a fan of Trump. I despise all things that have to do with Donald J. Trump, including but not limited to his policies, opinions, and Twitter sh*t storms.
But I need to defend his son right now, because as awful as Trump may be at doing the right thing, I try to be a good person, as should you if you believe in making the world a better place.
Katie Rich, a writer on Saturday Night Live, took what I presume to be frustrations towards our nation's new leader, and channeled those feelings into a tweet directed at the young boy. Let's just say the fact that she's a grown woman who couldn't see that her comment was hateful before hitting "share" made me a little ashamed of my love for SNL.
#SNL Writer Deletes Tweet Saying Barron Trump Will be America's 'First Homeschool Shooter' https://t.co/d4yDGbfSwp http://pic.twitter.com/SPuEn5nUTU
- Mediaite (@Mediaite) January 21, 2017
When I saw other media outlets covering this comment - as well as countless other tweets with horrible anecdotes about Barron - I immediately felt nauseated and cringed away from my phone.
This is a hard time for America. People are hurting, people are angry, and people are bolder than they've ever been. And even though we all like to claim that peace is the answer, some people have been far from peaceful in their actions and speech. Including, but definitely not limited to, Katie Rich.
Let's get one thing straight here, people. It does not, I repeat, DOES NOT, matter what you think or feel about Donald Trump - it's never OK to go after an innocent young boy, especially one who has been forced into the public eye from the day of his birth due to his parentage.
It's never OK to go after an innocent young boy, especially one who has been forced into the public eye from the day of his birth due to his parentage.
My heart physically hurts for Barron. Although I'm not a mother yet, when I read these tweets I immediately thought about the young people in my life - my cousin, who hasn't yet celebrated her first birthday, and the children I used to nanny, who are just 5 and 2 and can't possibly understand the true climate of the nation. If anyone were to treat my babies the way Barron has been treated, I'm not even sure what my first action after uncontrollable weeping would be.
Seeing grown adults who are upset about the state of our nation take out their anger on Barron is disturbing, to say the least. Barron is just a boy. A boy who may be the age of your child right now. A boy who should be riding around on his bike with his friends or celebrating a soccer team win with a hot fudge sundae. A boy who didn't ask for any of the publicity he's receiving, but is forced to put on a suit like an adult and stand in front of cameras as the son of the president of the United States, having his every move dissected and criticized.
Whether you're a parent or not, try to put your child, real or imaginary, in Barron's shoes. Think about how it would feel to have someone openly say that your 10-year-old child "looks like a date rapist-to-be" (one of the disgusting comments made about Barron on Twitter).
Social media has given our mean comments, which wouldn't normally be more than just fleeting thoughts or sly comments to our friends, a place to live and thrive without causing us to feel that immediate sense of guilt that comes with insulting someone to their face. The ability to share these unfiltered thoughts at such a rapid speed is causing us to skip the part where we think about the consequences of our actions.
No matter how you feel today, tomorrow, or at any point in the next four years, I am begging you: if you must make hateful comments (which an alarming number of us are guilty of if we're being honest with ourselves), please do not direct them at this child. He's likely having a hard enough time with all this as it is without someone making a 140-character joke about him probably "looking for stuff to burn in the White House."
Be an adult, be the bigger person, be the one to tell your friends to cool it when they're not "going high." It's what Barack, Michelle, and Hillary would want you to do.
MAC Is Launching 5 New Lip Kits That Will Totally Pop on Brown Skin
When MAC Cosmetics launched lip kits, we collectively lost our sh*t. The brand gave Kylie Jenner some tough competition with the release of seven duos of its bestselling bullets and lip liners. Now we have to make more room in our beauty collection, because MAC is adding five more hues to its lip kit lineup - and they are perfect for all the grunge goddesses out there.
Unlike the first round of pale nudes and pinkish mauves, MAC's new set of lip kits is all about achieving a sexy, vampy pout. The range includes some of our favorite edgy colors, including Film Noir and Sin, along with coordinating lip liners like Chestnut and Nightmoth. With each of the new shades, you can create custom takes on burgundy, vino, and purple-toned pouts.
Ladies of all complexions can get in on the grungy vibes of these kits, but we especially love that these are an exceptionally flattering match for brown girls. We are also excited that MAC is diversifying its duos for people who simply prefer to rock edgier lipstick.
You can snag the new kits in store and online from March 23 through March 27 at maccosmetics.com for $29, but given the popularity of the previous launches, we suggest you act fast. In the meantime, get a closer look at each lip set ahead to see which one(s) you'll be adding to your cart.
Pat McGrath Launches Iridescent Products Zenon Would Love
Remember when smoky eyes were boring? You probably visited a MAC or Bobbi Brown makeup counter in middle school and were told to put a nude base on your lid, a dark brown on your crease, and smudge like crazy. While this look is universally flattering and wearable, it's likely not going to make your selfie go viral. Thanks to Pat McGrath, the 2017 version of a smoky eye is out of this world - literally - as in, galaxy-inspired.
The makeup genius is releasing two new kits (dubbed Dark Star 006) in her Pat McGrath Labs brand meant to give you either a holographic ultraviolet blue or brown smoky eye. The trend was first seen when she did the makeup for the Anna Sui Fall 2017 New York Fashion Week show, where the Ultraviolet Blue set was used.
"The Dark Star 006 kit is all about the infinite blackness of outer space," McGrath said in a press release. "A star before it goes supernova, the iridescence of a raven's wing, a kohl-rimmed punk with smoke curling from their cigarette, but also a refined rebellion."
On April 11 at 12 p.m. ET at patmcgrath.com, you can snag a sequin-filled pack ($130) containing seven products to create this iridescent, dark eye makeup look in either UltraViolet Blue or UltraSuede Brown. The offering includes either blue or brown pigment, Astral White pigment, Mercury pigment, Dark Matter pigment, Cyber Clear eye gloss, Black SmudgeLiner eye kohl, and a Blender Brush. There is also the option to buy the six essentials without the blue or brown pigment for $95.
At an event to showcase the products to editors, she told our reporter that her goal for this this kit was to help people do a "real multi-dimensional smoky eye." McGrath admitted that she's over flat Instagram eye makeup, which is why this hybrid of gels and creams will give you a more textured, layered look.
And yes, she is OK with you wearing '80s blue eye makeup during the day. "Absolutely," she enthused. "People aren't that afraid of makeup anymore."
A standout in the set is the holographic gel, which can also be used on cheeks or lips. When you layer it on the Astral White pigment with the Ultraviolet blue, the color looks like an oily sticker from the '90s. (We're referring to this thing, kids.)
Keep reading to see more images of these chic products and swatches and how gorgeous they look on the eyes! -additional reporting by Kelsey Garcia
The Simple Reason Prince William Doesn't Wear a Wedding Ring
When Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, he gave her the stunning 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire ring that his late mother, Princess Diana, wore during her marriage to Prince Charles. And when the two tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in London in 2011, Kate added a gold band to sit perfectly next to her sparkler. But despite the duchess of Cambridge's new jewelry, there was no big exchanging of rings, because Prince William never got one. The reason? It's just not his style. Shortly before the couple's big day, the palace released a statement about his decision to ditch tradition and go ringless, saying, "It is simply down to personal preference. It was something the couple discussed but Prince William isn't one for jewelry." Seeing as how William and Kate are one of the most famous couples on the planet, they would be hard-pressed to find someone who wasn't aware of their sweet romance. So there you have it.
A Prosecco-Flavored Nail Polish Now Exists - We'll Just Let That Sink In
If you've ever gotten a manicure while sipping on a mimosa and basically living the life, we have some good news for you. Groupon created a nail polish made with real Prosecco that tastes and smells like the bubbly beverage.
According to the official website, the alcohol-infused polish will launch in honor of Mother's Day. In addition to tasting like it, the polish pretty much looks like a glass of Prosecco with its metallic gold hue and sparkly finish when applied.
There is, however, a catch: the polish will not be for sale online. To snag a bottle, you'll have to enter Groupon's sweepstakes by clicking "buy" and following the ensuing prompts. The other caveat? The fine print states that the prize will only be granted to Groupon users with UK addresses.
It's also worth noting that just because it tastes like sparkling wine doesn't mean you should drink the polish straight from the bottle. That would be bad. Similarly, you might not want to go around licking your nail polish if your hands have been touching a lot of other surfaces all day.
If you're curious - we don't blame you - check out Groupon's video demonstrating the product above.
These Are the 11 Best Sephora Brand Products We All Need For Spring 2017
In addition to the amazing line Sephora carries, the deals and steals, and the experience of getting your makeup done in the store, it also has a kickass eponymous brand. The Sephora Collection offering includes uniquely scented wipes, savvy travel goods, and affordable tools that actually work (plus cool ways to clean them!). Keep reading to discover 11 of our favorites that you need to add to your Spring makeup wardrobe.
Why this man had his colonoscopy broadcast live on the internet
When Dan Logan’s gastroenterologist asked him to have his next colonoscopy broadcast live on Facebook, he agreed right away. His mother had died of colon cancer and he thought it was the “right thing to do.”
Why this man had his colonoscopy broadcast live on the internet
When Dan Logan’s gastroenterologist asked him to have his next colonoscopy broadcast live on Facebook, he agreed right away. His mother had died of colon cancer and he thought it was the “right thing to do.”
33 Hairstyles That Prove Kate Middleton Is the Princess of Good Bangs
The decision to cut bangs is a very big one. And Kate Middleton, who is known around the world for having gorgeous hair, has taken the plunge on numerous occasions. In fact, Kate's sported the style on and off for the past decade. She's worn her fringe long and short, straight-down and pushed to the side. Kate's a trendsetter in many realms, and one look at these 33 hairstyles proves that fringe is also her domain.
15 Holographic Products to Complete Your Transformation Into a Unicorn
If you've been watching the beauty space over the past six months, it should come as no surprise to you that "mermaid" or "unicorn" products are having a major moment. And it isn't only the packaging that makes these items magical! The formulas themselves boast a mesmerizing sheen, which many brands and fans are calling holographic.
However, this is something of a misnomer. Nail polish junkies in particular know that the term holographic specifically refers to a kind of glitter particle that flashes with a rainbow or diamond-like sparkle. Some "unicorn" products fit into this category, but more often, they're iridescent. The colors in this family present as one shade at first glance but flash a few different colors depending on lighting. (For reference, think of the silver, green, gold, and blue casts you can see on a black pearl.)
We say, the more color, sparkle, and glitter, the merrier! We're absolutely fans of this trend and will continue rocking unicorn products long after they're out of style. To help feed your own addiction, keep reading; we've rounded up 15 of our favorite eye-catching prismatic products.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Your Hair Type
What's your hair type? It's a question that can determine a lot about your daily styling routine. Does your mane fall flat with just the hint of humidity? Are you spending hours twisting your kinks into curls? We've arranged this comprehensive guide from superstraight, fine strands to coarse, kinky locks. Plus we've added celebrity examples to each of the 12 categories so you can be totally sure. To discover your natural texture, wash your hair and examine your strands in the mirror without any styling products. Still can't decide which category you fall in? Your head could have a mix of two or three! Ahead, you'll find product recommendations and styling tips for your specific styling needs. It's like the every girl's guide to getting her best hair day. Ever.
15 Problems Only People With Invisalign Understand
Invisalign is not for the faint of heart. It will challenge your commitment, stamina, and self-confidence. It takes what feels like a bazillion years to complete. It has a million annoying components . . . and yet, it does offer one huge payoff: perfectly straight teeth. Those with Invisalign will agree that these 15 problems come up on the regular during your treatment. And you know what makes suffering through something a tad bit better? Knowing you're not alone.
The Simple Reason Prince William Doesn't Wear a Wedding Ring
When Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, he gave her the stunning 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire ring that his late mother, Princess Diana, wore during her marriage to Prince Charles. And when the two tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in London in 2011, Kate added a gold band to sit perfectly next to her sparkler. But despite the duchess of Cambridge's new jewelry, there was no big exchanging of rings, because Prince William never got one. The reason? It's just not his style. Shortly before the couple's big day, the palace released a statement about his decision to ditch tradition and go ringless, saying, "It is simply down to personal preference. It was something the couple discussed but Prince William isn't one for jewelry." Seeing as how William and Kate are one of the most famous couples on the planet, they would be hard-pressed to find someone who wasn't aware of their sweet romance. So there you have it.
Exactly How to Wear Orange Eye Shadow So Your Eyes Are on Fire
Orange you glad you now know about this eye makeup trend? (Sorry, had to!) On a more serious note: we're seeing orange as the fiery new shade everyone will be wearing for Summer 2017. Warm eye colors started gaining traction last year with pink and red taking the lead, and peach following suit. Orange is the next color craze, and it's already a favorite look for YouTubers and beauty bloggers.
"Bright saturated colors were seen on the runway (pops of color at Marc Jacobs, Sportmax, Anna Sui), so it's no surprise that orange is hot right now!" GlamSquad Director of Makeup Artistry Kelli J. Bartlett told us via email. "The look is a unique blend of elegant and edgy. It's a perfect way to add an extra festive or flirty flair to an otherwise chic and sophisticated barely-there beauty look."
But don't overdo it, she warns. "It's important to let other features find balance by sticking to neutrals on the lips (nudes look great!) and adding a touch of the orange you used on your eyes to your cheeks to coordinate the look without appearing too dramatic," Bartlett added.
You may still be feeling intimidated, especially if you don't think orange works with your complexion. Well, we have good news . . .
"Orange looks amazing on all skin tones and eye colors," Bartlett confirmed. "For deep skin and brown eyes, go for a rich tangerine that will pop. For fairer tones, choose a soft peach. Orange is especially complimentary on blue eyes."
OK, so now you're convinced and ready to DIY it. Try these tips from Bartlett: "For a fully saturated orange stare, the key is to be sure to blend it well. Apply the shadow on the lid and close to the lash line on the top only, using a small fluffy blending brush to bring a soft diffusion of color. The result is a subtle yet statement eye. Avoid rimming the entire eye in orange - it looks much better to splash it on the brow bone or lid for a flash of color!"
To execute this look, try Barlett's favorite pick - Makeup For Ever Artist Shadow in Tangerine.
Keep reading to see how mesmerizing orange eyes look on Instagram users!
This 1 Hack Will Ensure You Always Find the Right Foundation at the Drugstore
For over a decade, I've had the honor of working as a makeup artist to some of today's leading supermodels, fashion houses, and entertainers. And throughout this time, I've definitely been put to the test to determine which foundations are best for my clients' skin type. Luckily, the methods that I've developed can also translate to choosing the right complexion product for your skin type - even when you're shopping at the drugstore!
Mass brands have made a huge splash this past year with some of the latest innovations in foundation formulations. They have really become comparable to high-end department store types - and for a fraction of the cost! From Neutrogena's skincare-infused options to L'Oréal's expansive shade range, drugstore foundations are, well, covering all bases.
There are various factors to consider when shopping for the right foundation, especially when you can't exactly try them on in-store. Perhaps you're used to working with a Sephora Pro for guidance, or maybe you shop for beauty in department stores, where testers are available. When you're on your own at a pharmacy (without those handy options), it's easy to end up accidentally choosing the wrong shade. You may select a shade that matches your hand or your arm or just the wrong color altogether, resulting in mask-face (you know, when your face is a completely different color than your neck). So let's get down to business; where do you start?
Kristen Bell's First Fight With Dax Shepard Could Have Ended in Disaster
Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard have never been shy about opening up about their romance, and we love them for it. While many celebrity couples appear to be perfect, the parents of daughters Lincoln and Delta aren't afraid to say their union, well, takes a lot of f*cking work. The two revealed that this became evident when they had their first big fight shortly after they started dating, which happened during a road trip they were taking together on a motorcycle. "We were fighting about the playlist, and I got so mad at him at one point that I refused to hold onto him," she told People at the premiere of their film CHiPs on Monday. "So I was on the back and just held onto the [bike] because I didn't want to touch him." While it's unclear whether or not the bike was actually in motion when this went down, we're just glad nobody got hurt. And despite that bump in the road (pun intended), the two have gone on to have a successful and happy marriage (while still fighting from time to time like we all do).
My Pregnancy Was Unplanned but My Child Is Very Much Wanted
We're happy to present this article by Emily Lingenfelser from one of our favorite sites, YourTango.
So don't you dare judge me.
The other day, I told the director of a shelter for pregnant women that my pregnancy was unexpected. To my surprise, this woman had the nerve to laugh at me and replied, "Well, you know how babies are made, Emily."
Maybe I am dramatic, but her judgment felt like a punch in the stomach. I was speechless. Of course I'm not an idiot. I know how women become pregnant but I had just come to terms with the fact that I might not be able to have more children.
After five months without a period, I found myself having a transvaginal ultrasound and being told that there were multiple cysts on my ovaries. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), my doctor told me. My periods were nonexistent; I was 25 and ovulating maybe once every six months.
This will make it harder to get pregnant, he said, and I let that begin to really soak in.
I already had reservations about my ability to conceive which stemmed from my body's ultimate betrayal: cancer. My body was the enemy, the cancer cells and radiation had contaminated me from the inside out.
Perhaps it isn't logical thinking, but I no longer trusted my body to be anything except a disappointment.
So in July, when I was diagnosed with PCOS, a hormonal imbalance that would also affect my fertility and increase my chances of miscarriage threefold, I had began to prepare myself for the cold, hard truth: I might never carry another baby inside me.
Two weeks later, I ovulated for the first time in six months.
Two weeks after that, I conceived a child.
My body was not the enemy anymore. Despite the circumstances and it being unplanned, my pregnancy felt like a miracle. A gift from the God I wasn't so sure existed anymore.
It wasn't in my plans, but this baby was a blessing. Something I thought I would never have again. It couldn't just be a coincidence, because the odds seemed so insurmountable. It seemed impossible.
My unplanned pregnancy taught me that maybe everything does happen for a reason. Maybe there is a higher power and a purpose to all of this, a reason I was put here.
There are so many women, especially those who have survived cancer or been diagnosed with PCOS, who have fertility issues. They cannot conceive; they suffer from early miscarriage.
But somehow, I am 18 weeks pregnant with a little boy, who will come into this world so loved and wanted. A little boy who was unexpected in every way with a mother who feels entirely blessed to feel his little kicks every single day.
So before you judge me, before you mock the terms "unplanned" or "unexpected," you should realize there is always more to the story than you know. There are silent struggles and quiet pain that people go through which you may never know.
And at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if I intended to get pregnant or not. The creation of a life is always something to be proud of, despite judgmental, pro-life assh*les who believe it's OK to lecture others about how babies are made.
You know what I have to say to those self-righteous individuals? Go f*ck yourself. (At least you won't get pregnant that way.)
More great reads from YourTango:
Brides Need to Read This Horror Story About Wedding Beauty Services
"Keep it simple. Keep it simple." That was the mantra, my then-fiancé and I kept repeating while planning our Brooklyn wedding last May. Since we are in our 30s, most of our friends already were married, and we had heard tons of stories of the stress and complications that come with producing a one-day affair that is supposed to be, according to nearly everyone, "the most important day of your life."
I bet you can tell where this is going. It wasn't simple. Or stress-free. But we really did try to make it manageable: we kept the guest list down to just 50 people, and stuck to our budget by renting a city garden for the ceremony and booking a local restaurant for the reception. We did a lot of things ourselves, including making teacup candle favors.
A couple months before the big day, a friend asked me who was doing my hair and makeup. Right. Hair and makeup. I hadn't thought of that. I'm someone whose makeup routine consists of wearing eyeliner and mascara about twice a week, and maybe a little blush if I really want to dress up. "Doing my hair" means remembering to brush it in the morning. So while booking hair and makeup is often at the forefront of most bride's wedding lists, it had somehow slipped my mind.
I realized I needed help. "Fear not," my sweet friend said. "I'll just book you an appointment with a great online service I've used before. Hair and makeup stylists come to your apartment and take care of it." My friend took care of the bill, which was around $125, as a gift. (I have great friends, I really do).
And just like that, I crossed hair and makeup off of my to-do list.
Source: Karim Hajj
Let's fast-forward through the drama of cutting notable family members from the guest list, discovering our preferred reception restaurant was already booked, and waiting until the last minute to find a wedding dress. Every wedding has its share of planning stress.
The night before, I double checked everything: taxi reservations, safe rings' storage, and the photographer and beauty stylists' arrival times. The latter was particularly important, as I'd planned a morning wedding that would start promptly at 9 a.m.
I had given myself a 6:30 a.m. wakeup call so I'd be ready on time. Not that I slept. I was up all night with a racing heart - jitters is putting it mildly. At some point around 3 a.m. I even Googled "tricks for falling asleep fast," and they didn't work.
So I stumbled dazed and confused out of my bedroom and announced to my best girlfriends that I was a little frazzled, and that I just wanted the morning to be peaceful.
I put on my undergarments and tried to eat a bagel, waiting for the hairstylist and makeup artist to show up at their 7 a.m. call time. But the hour rolled around and they were nowhere in sight. "No biggie," I thought. "Anyone living in NYC knows that the trains are unpredictable."
But by 7:15 a.m., I started to freak out a little bit. I went back to my email to make sure the reservation was correct, and that's when I saw what had happened. My sweet friend had made a little mistake with my street address! Instead of writing "Southwest" for my street, she had written "West." That's it. The stylists were somewhere looking for an address that didn't even exist. And I was in full-on panic mode.
I immediately started scanning my confirmation email for the stylists' phone numbers or emails, so I could call and tell them the right address. There was nothing to be found. Nothing, that is, except for a hotline for the company. Frantically I dialed it, only to get their voicemail: "We're sorry, but our offices are closed until Monday..."
All I had was the stylists' first names, so on a whim, I googled one of them. Amazingly, I found her Facebook page, which led me to her website, where I found her email address. It was a Hotmail address. I didn't have much faith it would actually work, but I shot off a quick S.O.S. email as the minutes ticked by.
I was in tears at that point, standing there in my Spanx and wet hair, when my friend offered to do my hair and makeup herself. "OK," I said. I looked at the clock, it was 7:35 a.m. I was supposed to be out the door in an hour. "We don't have much time."
I sat down, and my friend began applying foundation to my tear-stricken face.
"You already look great," she assured me. "I'm just going to make you look a little better."
Source: Karim Hajj
A few minutes later, the doorbell rang. It was the stylists.
They rushed up the stairs, lugging their suitcases full of hair dryers, curlers, eyeliners and powders. They looked as harried as I did.
"I never check my Hotmail account," the hairstylist said, "but something told me to check it this morning. I got your email and we raced over here."
At 7:45 a.m., I sat down again and the ladies went to work. I don't think they'd ever worked that fast before. Luckily for them, I wanted something uncomplicated, so squeezing a one-hour session into 15 minutes wasn't impossible.
The hairstylist began to give me a blowout while the other got to work on my face. The service has a dozen or so "looks" to choose from, and I chose a classic but simple one with some soft curls, pinned up so I could stick a few flowers in the back. For my makeup, I wanted a natural look, but a kind of "natural" that would disguise the fact that I hadn't slept a wink the night before.
The two women were amazing and really made me feel like it was all going to be OK. At a little past 8 a.m., they were done. With a slight change to my makeup (I had her tone down the initial job a little bit around the eyes), my "look" was complete. It was elegant, classic, and natural.
I quickly put on my dress and shoes and walked out the door, into my future as a married woman.
The wedding, by the way, was unforgettable.
If I were to do it all again, I would pay more attention to my wedding hair and makeup appointments. I notified the company about the whole ordeal. They said the reason there was no contact information exchanged was to protect the privacy of both stylist and client. They did, though, say that they'd try to come up with a system so that a similar situation would never happen again. In the end, they felt so bad about the near-wedding disaster that they gave both my friend and I gift certificates to use in the future - which we used, and had great experiences.
So, it all worked out. And I got to get married to my best friend, which was pretty great too.
22 Beauty Moments That Will Make You Love Sarah Jessica Parker Even More
Sarah Jessica Parker has been a beauty icon for decades. As a child actor, she was in the spotlight with the trademark curls required to play Annie. And it almost goes without saying that SJP's curly locks officially earned pop culture royalty status thanks to her long run playing the hilarious and always quotable Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City on both the big and small screens.
Beyond being a major beauty inspiration, Sarah Jessica is a serious style icon and one-half of one of our favorite Hollywood couples with her husband of almost 20 years, Matthew Broderick.
On today, SJP's 52nd birthday, we're honoring her iconic status by looking back at how her beauty look has evolved over the years - happy birthday, SJP!
Kristen Bell's First Fight With Dax Shepard Could Have Ended in Disaster
Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard have never been shy about opening up about their romance, and we love them for it. While many celebrity couples appear to be perfect, the parents of daughters Lincoln and Delta aren't afraid to say their union, well, takes a lot of f*cking work. The two revealed that this became evident when they had their first big fight shortly after they started dating, which happened during a road trip they were taking together on a motorcycle. "We were fighting about the playlist, and I got so mad at him at one point that I refused to hold onto him," she told People at the premiere of their film CHiPs on Monday. "So I was on the back and just held onto the [bike] because I didn't want to touch him." While it's unclear whether or not the bike was actually in motion when this went down, we're just glad nobody got hurt. And despite that bump in the road (pun intended), the two have gone on to have a successful and happy marriage (while still fighting from time to time like we all do).
vendredi 24 mars 2017
Selena Gomez Is as Cute Now as She Was in Her First Disney Audition at 11
"You know, I'm not going to cry if I don't get it," 11-year-old Selena Gomez quipped after her seriously impressive Disney audition back in 2004. She was experienced, after all, with a role in Barney & Friends already on her résumé.
The "Hands to Myself" singer obviously signed with Disney after her audition, which led to her breakout role on Wizards of Waverly Place (which ended 5 years ago!). But have you ever seen young Selena's unrefined acting chops? Press play above to watch her confidently tackle a line read like a pro, all while wearing an adorable poncho. When you're done with that, if you're still feeling nostalgic, relive her friendship with Demi Lovato.
This Walking Dead Theory Explains the 1 Thing You Never Realized Was a Problem
There have been a lot of devastating moments on The Walking Dead, and the fact that most of them are related to death shouldn't come as a surprise. What is a little perplexing, though, is how many of these deaths seem to be almost accidental. Have you ever wondered how the walkers manage to sneak up on so many unsuspecting victims? We've seen it tons of times: so-and-so is out in the forest when suddenly a walker is gnawing at their neck. Walkers are noisy, and constantly making that awful, raspy moaning sound. So, how is this possible?
As luck would have it, one very ponderous Reddit user has offered a pretty plausible answer: all the characters are partially, if not completely, deaf. According to the theory that breaks it down, there's a pretty obvious cause.
In The Walking Dead, walkers can get so close unnoticed because the main characters are all suffering from a large amount of hearing loss from repeatedly firing off guns without hearing protection. Rick went mostly deaf in that tank in Atlanta, everyone else had a similar experience off camera. Now they don't even flinch when a gun goes off, they're all deafer than f*ck, stomping through the woods, yelling at each other constantly. That's why they keep attracting walkers, they have no clue how loud they're being.
Other Reddit users were quick to weigh in, noting how detrimental gunshots can be to the ears, especially in jail cells and other confined spaces. So, there you have it!
Recall Alert! Check Your Freezers For This Frozen Chicken
If you have frozen breaded chicken in your freezer, check them ASAP as there has been a recall of almost one million pounds of meat. O.K. Foods Inc. recalled many of its breaded chicken products after customers complained of finding metal shards in the meat. To find out if your frozen chicken is affected, take a look at these product images as well as these label codes.
According to the USDA, "The ready-to-eat breaded chicken items were produced on various dates from Dec. 19, 2016 through March 7, 2017. The products subject to recall bear establishment number 'P-7092' inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations and institutions nationwide." If you do have an affected product, do not consume it. Return it to the place of purchase or contact Abby Brown at (479) 312-2409 with any questions.
7 Bits of Intel We've Got About the Final Season of Orphan Black
Last Summer, we received word about Orphan Black that was good news and bad news all rolled into one. While we were excited to learn that the show had been renewed for a fifth season, we were pretty bummed out to learn that this next season would also be the last. Luckily for us, Tatiana Maslany has already won her much-deserved Emmy, so we don't have to place too much pressure on this last hurrah. But hey, we have a feeling you'll want to know what you're in for as the show comes to a close. Here's what we've uncovered thus far.
1. The New Cast
In addition to all the faces we know and love, a few new ones will pop up in season five. Variety has reported five major additions: Elyse Levesque (Detective Engers), Andrew Moodie (Mr. Frontenac, a consultant to Rachel), Simu Liu (Kira's new teacher Mr. Mitchell), Jenessa Grant (Mud), and Stephen McHattie (Neolution founder P.T. Westmoreland).
2. The Story
At the end of season four, pretty much every clone's life is hanging in the balance. Cosima is dying from the uncured clone illness, but at least she's with Delphine. Sarah is wounded and stranded on the island. Things are pretty dire, and the official Twitter account has teased a "Final Trip" for the season ahead. It's safe to say everything's going to unravel at once.
At the Paleyfest panel in LA, we learned that a majority of the clones will be on the island in the season premiere.
3. The Focus
At the Paleyfest panel in March, we learned that a lot of season five would hone in on all the various different characters: "There's a lot of character-specific episodes where we really get to dig into who they [the clones] are," Maslany explained.
4. A New Villain
Did you think Rachel was as bad as it's going to get? It turns out there's a man named P.T. Westmoreland above her who's running the show. He's a Neolutionist who resides on that island and is well over 100 years old.
5. More Rachel Than Ever
If you were waiting for Rachel to rise from the ashes, now is the time. "Rachel is very deep this year and very powerful," revealed cocreator John Fawcett. "We wanted Rachel to rise to the top through her villainy. We've enjoyed finding the deeper aspects and contradictions in the character."
6. The Production
The final season began production in early October 2016. In late March, just before the show's Paleyfest panel, cocreator Graeme Mason revealed that they had wrapped.
7. The Premiere Date
In February, BBC announced that the final episodes would begin airing on June 10. The real question is, are you ready?
This 13-Year-Old With Down Syndrome Is Fighting For Her Right to Cheer
Madison Thompson has been cheerleading for almost 10 years, but she still hasn't landed a spot on her school's cheerleading squad.
World Champion Boxer Alicia Napoleon: “Anger Fueled My Dreams”
Alicia Napoleon's childhood dream was to be a boxer, but she had to fight tooth and nail to get there.
Watch Alicia's full story on POPSUGAR's new TV series, Conquered, Tuesday, March 28, on Z Living.
World Champion Boxer Alicia Napoleon: “Anger Fueled My Dreams”
Alicia Napoleon's childhood dream was to be a boxer, but she had to fight tooth and nail to get there.
Watch Alicia's full story on POPSUGAR's new TV series, Conquered, Tuesday, March 28, on Z Living.
What to Eat For a Better Sex Life
Our friends at YourTango have the diet you need for a better sex life.
Your body will thank you.
As anyone who has been following me for a while will know, almost every decision that I make is ultimately optimized for one of two things…
- My mental clarity
- My creative/sexual energy
How I eat, sleep, relax, play, and live are all optimized for these two outcomes.
My primary core values all come down to loving as fully as possible and giving as much as possible to the world. And both of these two things are served by having a clear mind and an abundance of creative energy.
One of the biggest contributing factors to my sexual and creative energy is the food that I put in my body. When I eat starchy, sugary, overly processed foods, I feel terrible and my cognitive functioning and sex drive immediately suffer. Conversely, when I eat clean, I sleep better, think more clearly, and enjoy a much more deeply satisfying sex life.
I thought I would release a deep-dive article on the whole food element of my daily nutrient intake.
While my life obviously has some fairly frequent deviations from the following three meals, these are by far the most common things that I eat on a daily basis.
The Better Sex Diet: How To Eat For Better Sex
For general context, I avoid common gut irritants (dairy, gluten, alcohol, refined sugar), and I eat in 2-4 square meals per day, depending on my unique goals for the day.
While I am far from being strict about it, many people would put me somewhere in the Paleo/Whole30/ketogenic/plant-based/Bulletproof diet range. Which is to say, I eat clean and don't put a lot of crap in my body. I generally eat high fat, high protein, low carb, easily digestible, nutrient dense super foods.
If it's deeply nourishing, easy to digest, and I can make it in under ten minutes, then, chances are, I like eating it. So, if you're looking to sleep better, have a healthier gut, better skin, healthier hair, and you want a better sex life, you've come to the right article.
Let's get into it.
Early Morning: Water/Intermittent Fasting
Most of the mornings that I wake up, I like to continue to fast until I actually feel hungry. I regularly like to wake up sometime between 4 and 6 AM and write for a few hours before I put any real calories in my body. During this time, I'll drink 1-2 liters of water with the juice of a whole fresh lemon squeezed into it.
This is also the time of day that I most like to go for a walk and watch the sunrise (hooray for natural vitamin D!). Any kind of movement in the morning (walking, jogging, yoga/stretching, going to the gym) helps you to clear your mind, build emotional resilience, and get your creative juices flowing.
Then I'll journal out my thoughts and action steps for the day in a Moleskine journal, and then it's time for breakfast.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Intermittent fasting has been proven to show spikes in luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels. In other words, it boosts your sex drive substantially, even if you only do it once or twice per week.
Morning: High-Fat Nutrient-Dense Smoothie, Free-Range Eggs, And Supplements
The lineup of bottles that I have accumulated over the past few years has started to make a section of my fridge look like a miniature pharmacy, but each supplement plays a necessary role in the nutrient profile of my breakfast smoothie.
In my smoothie I will include:
- 1-2 small servings of fruit (most frequently: banana, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 4-5 servings of vegetables (spinach, steamed kale, cucumber, cilantro, parsley, spirulina, chlorella, organic greens powder)
- A generous serving of healthy fats (avocado, coconut oil, cashew butter, almond butter, MCT oil, hemp hearts, cacao nibs, black chia seeds)
- High-quality protein (Bulletproof collagen protein, Garden Of Life vegan protein)
Depending on how many calories I'm going for on that particular day I will scale up or down certain ingredients (mainly the fruits and the fats) and go from there.
There are also a handful of supplements that I consume most days for good measure.
- Organic cinnamon
- Liposomal curcumin (turmeric)
- Liposomal vitamin C
- A high-quality B vitamin complex
- Mushroom extract powder (for the immune system)
- Magnesium bisglycinate (anti-cramping, improved mood)
- Probiotics (for healthy digestion/gut health)
- Pine pollen and maca root powder (for a libido boost)
- Flax seed oil
- Omega 3 oil + DHA (for brain health, cognitive function, and improved mood)
If it's a high-calorie day (I have a big workout coming up later that morning, or I'm making up for under eating over the previous handful of days) then I will also eat an egg scramble with brightly colored vegetables (orange and red peppers, tomato, purple onion, purple cabbage) and some naturally fermented foods (like sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, kefir) for gut health.
And that will usually keep me full until at least 1 PM.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Brightly colored vegetables, dark berries, curcumin, whole free-range eggs, and many other ingredients listed in this section are amazing precursors to testosterone production. And the pine pollen, maca powder, and organic, healthy fats (avocado, coconut oil) kick your libido into overdrive.
Lunch: Batch Produced Organic Stir-Fry or Chili
I'm fairly lazy when it comes to spending too much time cooking on a daily basis (hence the nature of my breakfasts and dinners), so I like batch producing my lunches for the week on one day over the weekend (usually Sundays).
Whether it's a stew, chili, stir-fry, or any other name for the same thing, I essentially make a huge batch of cooked veggies with some lean protein mixed in, and coconut oil or olive oil for the added fats, and then refrigerate and/or freeze the leftovers and eat them throughout the week. For this, it helps to have a set of quality glassware that you can freeze your portions for later consumption.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
The human body requires healthy fats to produce most hormones, including testosterone. Coconut oil helps with your ability to produce cholesterol, which is necessary for optimal health, reduce your body fat and maintain your body weight. As a side note, overall weight control is also another natural way of improving testosterone production.
It's also good to have warm foods (not just cold smoothies and salads) in your stomach because, according to ancient Chinese traditions around food, pre-heated foods help to keep the 'fire' in your stomach burning consistently (instead of dampening your digestive fires with only cold foods).
Snack: Nuts, Dark Berries, 80+ Percent Dark Chocolate
I'm not a huge snacker (I generally just drink a lot of water throughout the day to keep myself full between meals), but when I do snack, I tend to go for nuts, dark berries, and dark chocolate.
Having a large jar of organic cashew butter, almond butter, or coconut oil on hand is always helpful to curb your cravings. Grab a spoon full of your favorite fat and slurp it down. Same goes for blackberries, blueberries, and dark chocolate (make sure it's at least 80 percent cacao).
These clever little snacks contain healthy fats, a whole host of antioxidants, and magnesium, manganese, iron, and zinc to get you through your afternoon.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Dark chocolate contains L-arginine, an amino acid that's an effective natural sex enhancing compound for women and men. L-arginine works by increasing nitric oxide in your body and thereby promoting blood flow to your sexual organs, which can increase sexual desire.
Dinner: A Huge, Colorful Salad With Fish Or Chicken
That's right - more veggies. I aim to consume 10-20 servings of vegetables per day, and I try to have a few in every meal. My dinner is generally just a huge pile of veggies (either a massive salad or a big cooked up veggie scramble in coconut oil and/or grass-fed ghee butter).
On a bed of spinach and mixed greens, I will add red/orange pepper, tomato, avocado, cucumber, and a handful of dark berries. Then, for added protein, either smoked salmon, sardines, or some other type of fish or chicken.
To finish it off, I'll add nori (seaweed) flakes, pink Himalayan salt, bacon-flavored coconut flakes, and a healthy dose of organic olive oil, a tablespoon or balsamic vinegar reduction, and the juice of a full lemon.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
I've already touched on the health benefits of eating large doses of brightly colored vegetables and dark berries, so for this section, I'll focus on the olive oil and fish.
The omega 3 fatty acids in fish are good for cognitive functioning, stabilized mood, and muscle reparation, and research shows that those who consume olive oil regularly show a 17-19 percent boost in testosterone in a matter of weeks.
Once my belly is full of nutrient dense veggies I call it quits for food for the day. I avoid eating anything after 7 PM, but if I'm out really late and come home and want something to snack on before I pass out for the night, I'll usually have a tablespoon of almond butter or coconut oil.
Then I shower, journal, read, and wind down for the night.
So that's it - a ton of vegetables, a bit of fruit, a large helping of healthy fats, some lean proteins, and a lot of water. Nutrient dense, easy to prepare, and (most importantly) highly optimized for overall life energy.
.......
Sex and relationship coach Jordan Gray helps people remove their emotional blocks and maintain thriving intimate relationships. You can see more of his writing at JordanGrayConsulting.com.
More from our friends at YourTango:
What to Eat For a Better Sex Life
Our friends at YourTango have the diet you need for a better sex life.
Your body will thank you.
As anyone who has been following me for a while will know, almost every decision that I make is ultimately optimized for one of two things…
- My mental clarity
- My creative/sexual energy
How I eat, sleep, relax, play, and live are all optimized for these two outcomes.
My primary core values all come down to loving as fully as possible and giving as much as possible to the world. And both of these two things are served by having a clear mind and an abundance of creative energy.
One of the biggest contributing factors to my sexual and creative energy is the food that I put in my body. When I eat starchy, sugary, overly processed foods, I feel terrible and my cognitive functioning and sex drive immediately suffer. Conversely, when I eat clean, I sleep better, think more clearly, and enjoy a much more deeply satisfying sex life.
I thought I would release a deep-dive article on the whole food element of my daily nutrient intake.
While my life obviously has some fairly frequent deviations from the following three meals, these are by far the most common things that I eat on a daily basis.
The Better Sex Diet: How To Eat For Better Sex
For general context, I avoid common gut irritants (dairy, gluten, alcohol, refined sugar), and I eat in 2-4 square meals per day, depending on my unique goals for the day.
While I am far from being strict about it, many people would put me somewhere in the Paleo/Whole30/ketogenic/plant-based/Bulletproof diet range. Which is to say, I eat clean and don't put a lot of crap in my body. I generally eat high fat, high protein, low carb, easily digestible, nutrient dense super foods.
If it's deeply nourishing, easy to digest, and I can make it in under ten minutes, then, chances are, I like eating it. So, if you're looking to sleep better, have a healthier gut, better skin, healthier hair, and you want a better sex life, you've come to the right article.
Let's get into it.
Early Morning: Water/Intermittent Fasting
Most of the mornings that I wake up, I like to continue to fast until I actually feel hungry. I regularly like to wake up sometime between 4 and 6 AM and write for a few hours before I put any real calories in my body. During this time, I'll drink 1-2 liters of water with the juice of a whole fresh lemon squeezed into it.
This is also the time of day that I most like to go for a walk and watch the sunrise (hooray for natural vitamin D!). Any kind of movement in the morning (walking, jogging, yoga/stretching, going to the gym) helps you to clear your mind, build emotional resilience, and get your creative juices flowing.
Then I'll journal out my thoughts and action steps for the day in a Moleskine journal, and then it's time for breakfast.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Intermittent fasting has been proven to show spikes in luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels. In other words, it boosts your sex drive substantially, even if you only do it once or twice per week.
Morning: High-Fat Nutrient-Dense Smoothie, Free-Range Eggs, And Supplements
The lineup of bottles that I have accumulated over the past few years has started to make a section of my fridge look like a miniature pharmacy, but each supplement plays a necessary role in the nutrient profile of my breakfast smoothie.
In my smoothie I will include:
- 1-2 small servings of fruit (most frequently: banana, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 4-5 servings of vegetables (spinach, steamed kale, cucumber, cilantro, parsley, spirulina, chlorella, organic greens powder)
- A generous serving of healthy fats (avocado, coconut oil, cashew butter, almond butter, MCT oil, hemp hearts, cacao nibs, black chia seeds)
- High-quality protein (Bulletproof collagen protein, Garden Of Life vegan protein)
Depending on how many calories I'm going for on that particular day I will scale up or down certain ingredients (mainly the fruits and the fats) and go from there.
There are also a handful of supplements that I consume most days for good measure.
- Organic cinnamon
- Liposomal curcumin (turmeric)
- Liposomal vitamin C
- A high-quality B vitamin complex
- Mushroom extract powder (for the immune system)
- Magnesium bisglycinate (anti-cramping, improved mood)
- Probiotics (for healthy digestion/gut health)
- Pine pollen and maca root powder (for a libido boost)
- Flax seed oil
- Omega 3 oil + DHA (for brain health, cognitive function, and improved mood)
If it's a high-calorie day (I have a big workout coming up later that morning, or I'm making up for under eating over the previous handful of days) then I will also eat an egg scramble with brightly colored vegetables (orange and red peppers, tomato, purple onion, purple cabbage) and some naturally fermented foods (like sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, kefir) for gut health.
And that will usually keep me full until at least 1 PM.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Brightly colored vegetables, dark berries, curcumin, whole free-range eggs, and many other ingredients listed in this section are amazing precursors to testosterone production. And the pine pollen, maca powder, and organic, healthy fats (avocado, coconut oil) kick your libido into overdrive.
Lunch: Batch Produced Organic Stir-Fry or Chili
I'm fairly lazy when it comes to spending too much time cooking on a daily basis (hence the nature of my breakfasts and dinners), so I like batch producing my lunches for the week on one day over the weekend (usually Sundays).
Whether it's a stew, chili, stir-fry, or any other name for the same thing, I essentially make a huge batch of cooked veggies with some lean protein mixed in, and coconut oil or olive oil for the added fats, and then refrigerate and/or freeze the leftovers and eat them throughout the week. For this, it helps to have a set of quality glassware that you can freeze your portions for later consumption.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
The human body requires healthy fats to produce most hormones, including testosterone. Coconut oil helps with your ability to produce cholesterol, which is necessary for optimal health, reduce your body fat and maintain your body weight. As a side note, overall weight control is also another natural way of improving testosterone production.
It's also good to have warm foods (not just cold smoothies and salads) in your stomach because, according to ancient Chinese traditions around food, pre-heated foods help to keep the 'fire' in your stomach burning consistently (instead of dampening your digestive fires with only cold foods).
Snack: Nuts, Dark Berries, 80+ Percent Dark Chocolate
I'm not a huge snacker (I generally just drink a lot of water throughout the day to keep myself full between meals), but when I do snack, I tend to go for nuts, dark berries, and dark chocolate.
Having a large jar of organic cashew butter, almond butter, or coconut oil on hand is always helpful to curb your cravings. Grab a spoon full of your favorite fat and slurp it down. Same goes for blackberries, blueberries, and dark chocolate (make sure it's at least 80 percent cacao).
These clever little snacks contain healthy fats, a whole host of antioxidants, and magnesium, manganese, iron, and zinc to get you through your afternoon.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
Dark chocolate contains L-arginine, an amino acid that's an effective natural sex enhancing compound for women and men. L-arginine works by increasing nitric oxide in your body and thereby promoting blood flow to your sexual organs, which can increase sexual desire.
Dinner: A Huge, Colorful Salad With Fish Or Chicken
That's right - more veggies. I aim to consume 10-20 servings of vegetables per day, and I try to have a few in every meal. My dinner is generally just a huge pile of veggies (either a massive salad or a big cooked up veggie scramble in coconut oil and/or grass-fed ghee butter).
On a bed of spinach and mixed greens, I will add red/orange pepper, tomato, avocado, cucumber, and a handful of dark berries. Then, for added protein, either smoked salmon, sardines, or some other type of fish or chicken.
To finish it off, I'll add nori (seaweed) flakes, pink Himalayan salt, bacon-flavored coconut flakes, and a healthy dose of organic olive oil, a tablespoon or balsamic vinegar reduction, and the juice of a full lemon.
Why It's Good For Your Sex Life
I've already touched on the health benefits of eating large doses of brightly colored vegetables and dark berries, so for this section, I'll focus on the olive oil and fish.
The omega 3 fatty acids in fish are good for cognitive functioning, stabilized mood, and muscle reparation, and research shows that those who consume olive oil regularly show a 17-19 percent boost in testosterone in a matter of weeks.
Once my belly is full of nutrient dense veggies I call it quits for food for the day. I avoid eating anything after 7 PM, but if I'm out really late and come home and want something to snack on before I pass out for the night, I'll usually have a tablespoon of almond butter or coconut oil.
Then I shower, journal, read, and wind down for the night.
So that's it - a ton of vegetables, a bit of fruit, a large helping of healthy fats, some lean proteins, and a lot of water. Nutrient dense, easy to prepare, and (most importantly) highly optimized for overall life energy.
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Sex and relationship coach Jordan Gray helps people remove their emotional blocks and maintain thriving intimate relationships. You can see more of his writing at JordanGrayConsulting.com.
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A Stunning Frozen-Themed Birthday Party Even Elsa Would Approve
Frozen fever lives on! For Zoe's birthday party, her mother wanted to give her a Winter wonderland soiree so Zoe would have a chance to wear her Elsa costume. To get into the Frozen spirit, there were icy blue linens with mirrors and crystal candleholders. Large white tree branches added a minimalist touch and matched the pile of fake snow on the table. While the decor gave a huge nod to the Disney film, the food was also Frozen-inspired. Guests munched on treats such as white chocolate strawberries, melted Olaf yogurt and mini burgers (with snowflake-shaped cheese). Each guest also had their own cute glass bottles filled with blue snowball punch. What stole the show, however, was a beautiful two-tired, blue ombré rosette cake topped with adorable Frozen characters.
Zoe and her friends were also able to make Olaf using edible props like bags of marshmallows, pretzels, and chocolate chips. To top it all off, guests played in a bouncy house to get rid of all their energy. Zoe glowed in her royal Elsa gown, and at the end of the party, her mother shared one little secret that makes birthdays even more special. She said, "Zoe only opens one gift at the party (if any - many times it's after the party). And then she opens one gift a day until they are all gone." The reason, the mom explained, is so Zoe isn't in a rush to open all of her presents, and she gets to enjoy each one and look forward to opening more as the weeks go on. Read on to see how any parent can re-create this magical birthday bash, and then let us know if you've ever thrown together a Frozen party!
If You Experience Hormonal Breakouts, You'll Thank God For This Mask
I've yet to find a woman who hasn't encountered this issue: you're about to embark on that time of the month, and your skin appears to be mirroring just how annoyed, inflamed, and pissed off you feel on the inside. (If you haven't, please DM me immediately so I can paint a full picture.) But I've found something that has helped my skin during this monthly visit - premenstrual, if you will - and it doesn't require removing my uterus. Yay! In fact, it's a face mask, and it's going to be something you will wish they sold at Costco. Someone just get me a giant vat of this stuff.
The mask comes from Renée Rouleau, Demi Lovato's go-to esthetician and Texas native. She has helped me with two major skin care woes in my life, issues that have plagued me. First, she is the one who identified that I had melasma when I was 25. Mid-20s me thought the dark spots on my forehead and cheeks, which could appear to be shadows to the naked eye, were remnants of my self-tanner that I wasn't able to wash off. (To be young and naive.) It was during a facial at her Dallas location that she gently brought up that I had melasma and informed me of what triggered it: my birth control.
This changed my life. Seriously. I got off birth control, something I was able to do without worry at the time. I stopped upsetting my melanocytes - the cells that produce melanin, or pigment, in the skin - with heated, aggressive treatments. (For the most part.) I wore a hat to the beach and aspired to stay out of the heat in general, knowing the temperature could set my melasma off. And although there's a little bit on my forehead, it's less noticeable than it once was.
Then, a few years later, I had a breakout after leaving the Coachella Valley. God help me. My cheeks were ridden with red bumps and pustules, something I knew wasn't normal, and I realized they recurred each time I left Palm Springs. My (since dropped) dermatologist was quick to prescribe me pills to kill whatever it was, but wanting actual answers, I wrote Renée, who is now based in Austin. She asked me a variety of questions about my weekend that helped her pinpoint what I was experiencing: acne cosmetica. Spending long days in the dry climate with heavy winds and an oil-based foundation meant my pores were being blocked by my foundation and increased my oil production, resulting in what looks like a breakout. She made an easy suggestion: wear powder foundation on your next trip. And you know what? I haven't had a breakout in the desert since!
Now you know that I trust this woman. She dug deeper than my dermatologist bothered to in order to find the right solution. This is incredibly helpful when you're trying to fix any skin issue you have; it is invaluable.
Visiting Renée over Golden Globes weekend, I got a chance to receive a facial and learn about her new products. First, she told me I needed to "put the fire out of my skin." It was inflamed as hell, and I had several cysts that I hadn't battled with in some time. And truth be told, it kind of comes with the territory when you're testing skin care products regularly, but she reminded me that I must be gentle. She took a minute to give my skin a chill pill in the form of a rubber mask, then introduced me to her newest baby, an anti-breakout solution for hormonal acne that won't dry out your skin: the Rapid Response Detox Masque ($61).
Is it too good to be true? No. It works. I've tested it for a month, and I'm currently wearing the sheerest foundation I own - a compact from Laneige - if that gives you any indication. It works to help with clogged pores that result from travel, hormones, and even sleeping with makeup on. Renée suggests it for premenstrual acne to help "disrupt the acne cycle." This is mask is lightweight and dreamy; when it dries, it doesn't feel hard, sticky, or taut. Renée suggests exfoliating before applying the mask, so lightly scrub or use a peel to help get rid of dead skin. The mask itself is a golden, shimmery gel. Slather it on and let the following eliminate your future breakouts: tea tree leaf oil is antimicrobial and an anti-inflammatory that helps with acne bacteria. Helping to stop inflammation is key when it comes to getting rid of your breakouts, which is why she also included lichocalchone, or Chinese licorice, which helps soothe the skin. Manuka branch/leaf oil helps with the microbial - or bacteria - count on your skin's surface, and she included a salicylic acid complex to help exfoliate and reduce oil.
This mask doesn't include parabens, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, SD alcohol, or gluten, which my skin was thrilled about. I use it once a week, and it's recommended you leave on for about 15 minutes. (I tend to go over since I get distracted and forget I have it on.) Many masks take a few minutes to get off because they leave patches of product behind. This slides off the skin easily and leaves your with a glow afterward.
Investing in your skin, period, is always a good idea, but especially during that time of the month. My skin will take any help it can get!
Our Rainbow-Loving Hearts Are Gushing Over These Colorful, Sugary Churros
Let's be real for a second: churros are already pretty darn perfect in their most basic state. What's not to love about a tube of golden, fried dough slathered in cinnamon and sugar, am I right? But it looks like these tasty pastries just got a colorful, Instagram-ready upgrade, thanks to one sweets shop in California. The Loop specializes in handcrafted churros, offering its one-of-a-kind treats either dipped (in sauces like dulce de leche and Nutella), glazed (with toppings like chocolate or matcha crunch), or chilled (in soft-serve ice cream with other tantalizing toppings mixed in). Are you drooling yet?
Its latest crave-worthy creation is the Crystal Rainbow Churro Loop, a vibrant churro covered in rainbow sugar and served in vanilla soft serve with your choice of topping (like caramel popcorn, marshmallows, or Fruity Pebbles). Like, whoa. When The Loop started serving this delectable limited-edition goody, visitors couldn't help but share photos of their churros on social media because, well, just look at them!
The Walking Dead: Here's How Rick and Negan's War Plays Out in the Comics
As The Walking Dead slowly trudges to its season seven finale, there's one big question that's still weighing heavily on everyone's minds: will the combined forces of Alexandria, the Hilltop, and Ezekiel's Kingdom (and possibly the Oceanside Community) be strong enough to defeat Negan and his loyal group of Saviors? We'll probably have a better idea when the seventh season comes to a close on April 2, but since the TV show has remained true to the comics for the most part thus far, it's safe to assume something similar is going to play out in a few weeks.
Major spoilers for the end of the Walking Dead graphic novels below!
In the comics, Alexandria, the Hilltop, and the Kingdom go to war against the Saviors, which is a bloody, lengthy confrontation between both sides that claims a few notable casualties. To give you some background, no matter how many bullets Eugene manufactures for Rick and co. and no matter how many sneak attacks the group organizes, they constantly come up short. An important blow against them happens when Rick gears up to make a strike against Negan, only to learn the Hilltop's leader, idiotic coward Gregory, has traveled to the Sanctuary and decided to pledge Hilltop's support with the Saviors (note: season seven's episode 14, "The Other Side," seems to put those wheels in motion).
Some of the Hilltop's members leave Rick's cause to join Gregory, which results in a few deaths on both sides. Holly (who no longer exists on the show, but whose story now most aligns with Sasha's) decides to sacrifice herself by slamming a bus into the heart of Negan's compound. She survives, but Negan captures her. Obviously that doesn't end well for her. He delivers Holly back to Alexandria with a bag over her head, and when Denise (who's already dead on the show) takes it off, it's revealed Holly has turned into a zombie. She bites and kills Denise.
Image Source: Image Comics
As you might remember from episode seven, Carl goes on an ill-fated Carl mission to kill Negan, ditching Jesus and stowing away in a truck. He mows down a bunch of Saviors when he gets to the Sanctuary but fails to kill Negan. They form an unlikely friendship instead, and Negan sends Carl back to Alexandria unharmed. The same thing happens in the comics after Denise dies. After that, Rick and Negan enter the book's "All Out War" storyline, and things get kicked into high gear.
A series of battles between the two begins, starting with a fight initiated by Rick. He and his army storm the Sanctuary, telling Negan to clear his compound of women and children before they strike. Negan, ever the gentleman, flat-out refuses, so Rick's crew opens fire and they're able to do significant damage to the structure (they take down a few walls, allowing zombies to flood the courtyard). Part One of the war ends when Negan's men retaliate by bombing Alexandria with grenades.
As the war rages on, Negan realizes Rick has finally become a formidable enemy and decides to cover Lucille and all of his army's weapons with zombie guts so anyone who gets cut or shot by them will instantly be infected. During one skirmish, Negan orders Dwight - who at that point has already become a double agent for Alexandria - to shoot Rick with an infected crossbow. He shoots so Negan won't suspect anything but makes sure the bow isn't tainted with undead innards. Rick is hit (but luckily survives), and the Saviors retreat. Negan and his men return to Alexandria later on to take over the Rick-less group, only to shockingly discover Rick is still alive and kicking. He implores Negan to end the fight and pool their resources so they can fight zombies together, only to lunge forward and slash Negan's throat.
Image Source: Image Comics
Don't worry! Negan doesn't die. Instead, the comics flash-forward two years into the future and we see Carl go into the basement of a house. He chats with a shadowy figure about his love life (a girl finally showed Carl her boobs, go figure), and the person asks Carl if he still wants to kill him. "Yes, Negan. You know I do," he replies. Turns out, they gave Negan a life sentence in Alexandrian prison. He still talks to Rick from time to time, even though Negan struggles to understand why he's keeping him alive. Later, a character named Brandon Rose helps Negan escape. From that point on he's MIA but still alive, as far as we know.
Now, there's a chance the show won't follow this to a T - it's already differed on a number of key plot points over the years. Still, we have a feeling Rick and Negan's relationship is headed this way.
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