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.
jeudi 8 juin 2017
Why Carrots Are the Secret Ingredient I Always Add to Tomato Sauce
I never knew why my mom always added carrots to her homemade tomato sauce until I learned that they act as a replacement for something else: sugar. I now know that it's extremely common to find white sugar in pasta sauce recipes, usually around 1/4 cup. And jarred tomato sauces tend to be full of sugar, too - you might be surprised if you check the label. In fact, it's what makes Papa John's pizza sauce so sweet and makes you say, "What is that?" every time you can't quite place the undeniably delicious flavor of the sauce.
This all makes sense - sugar helps counteract the acidity of tomatoes and creates a more balanced flavor profile. But I've grown up to realize it's an unnecessary ingredient - it just adds to your daily sugar intake - and that the subtle sweetness of carrots eliminates the need for sugar altogether.
Don't worry; carrots won't make your tomato sauce chunky. The trick is to chop them super finely and sauté them along with the onion and the garlic so they cook down as their sweetness releases. To make this step as easy as possible, my mom always pulses fresh, peeled carrots a few times in a food processor until they're pulverized. They blend into the sauce so smoothly, you'd never know they were there. The next time you're picking out a tomato-based pasta recipe for the night, try leaving your sugar in the pantry and opting for this method instead. No one will know your secret, but you might want to reveal it anyway.
Dad-to-Be Ian Somerhalder Is Adorably Attentive to Pregnant Wife Nikki Reed
Have we mentioned lately how adorable Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are together? The couple, who are currently expecting their first child together, enjoyed a sweet day date on Tuesday as they grabbed a bite to eat at Gjelina in Venice, CA. While Nikki showed off her growing baby bump in a blue jumper, Ian wore a casual gray shirt and jeans as he carried her purse around town. And the cuteness didn't stop there. Like a true gentleman, the Vampire Diaries star helped his wife cross the street by lending his arm and cuddling up to her as they waited for traffic. His beloved character, Damon Salvatore, may be dead, but Ian proves time and time again that chivalry isn't. If you need us, we'll just be flipping through these photos and swooning over Ian and Nikki's sweet, sweet love.
Trader Joe's New IPA Is Gloriously Tasty and Ridiculously Cheap
Put the PBR and Tecate cans down, folks. There's a hoppier, boozier brew option that's easy on the wallet and taste buds. Trader Joe's newly released Boatswain American IPA comes in a six-pack of 12 ounce cans for only $5, and it's actually good!
My IPA-loving husband couldn't resist picking up a pack after spotting them during his last Trader Joe's run. We cracked open a can that evening while waiting for friends and our pizzas to arrive and instantly regretted not picking up more. The bold flavor of the hops was tamed with a heavy dose of malt, resulting in a mellow IPA with traces of bittersweet floral and citrus notes. Despite being easy to drink - even with heavy food like pizza - this beer has a boozy kick. I felt surprisingly buzzed after the first can, which makes sense when you consider the 6.7 percent alcohol volume. After friends arrived, we noticed that the Boatswain American IPA cleared out of the fridge faster than some of the stronger, more classic IPAs, like Sierra Nevada.
If you're looking for a cheap beer with big flavor and high alcohol level, you'll want to add this to your list of new Trader Joe's products to try. At just $5 for a six-pack, the risk factor is pretty low. It's the perfect beer to keep on hand for hosting BBQs but is also good for camping, poolside drinking, and any other Summer BYOB occasion you can think of.
Amazon, the ACLU, and Others Join Forces to Protest in Favor of Net Neutrality
With the fate of net neutrality in question - thanks to the FCC's efforts to eliminate regulations that protect it - major tech companies are fighting back. A few days before the public comment period closes on the FCC's net neutrality new proposal, companies like Amazon, Etsy, Reddit, and nonprofits like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) plan on protesting the ruling.
The demonstration is being organized by Battle For the Net, a project from three organizations, will take place on July 12, five days before the public comment period closes on July 17. These companies are hoping that by protesting, consumers will learn why net neutrality is so important. Net neutrality guarantees internet service providers (ISPs) can't slow down or block a particular website for any reason. Each website gets the same type of speed and freedom, meaning so do consumers using them. But if the FCC does away with these net neutrality rules, it could mean your ISP can start charging you to use Netflix at a regular speed or block you from viewing Twitter. The possibilities are endless.
In 2014, when the FCC was debating whether to "reclassify" ISPs under the Title II of the Telecommunications Act, websites like Netflix, Easy, and Kickstarter staged a similar protest. Some of these companies installed a widget from Battle For the Net that showed a slow spinning icon, indicating how the internet could like if net neutrality didn't exist.
It's not clear what this year's protest will look like yet, but with some of the biggest corporations and civil rights groups coming together to fight this, prepare to see something noteworthy.
The Reason You're Craving Insanely Sweet Foods During Pregnancy
Could you not get enough sweet foods during your pregnancy? Did you want to pour chocolate on everything? Maybe Buddy the Elf's pasta looks like your kind of meal? Find out why and how to satisfy those cravings in the video above!
Amazon, the ACLU, and Others Join Forces to Protest in Favor of Net Neutrality
With the fate of net neutrality in question - thanks to the FCC's efforts to eliminate regulations that protect it - major tech companies are fighting back. A few days before the public comment period closes on the FCC's net neutrality new proposal, companies like Amazon, Etsy, Reddit, and nonprofits like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) plan on protesting the ruling.
The demonstration is being organized by Battle For the Net, a project from three organizations, will take place on July 12, five days before the public comment period closes on July 17. These companies are hoping that by protesting, consumers will learn why net neutrality is so important. Net neutrality guarantees internet service providers (ISPs) can't slow down or block a particular website for any reason. Each website gets the same type of speed and freedom, meaning so do consumers using them. But if the FCC does away with these net neutrality rules, it could mean your ISP can start charging you to use Netflix at a regular speed or block you from viewing Twitter. The possibilities are endless.
In 2014, when the FCC was debating whether to "reclassify" ISPs under the Title II of the Telecommunications Act, websites like Netflix, Easy, and Kickstarter staged a similar protest. Some of these companies installed a widget from Battle For the Net that showed a slow spinning icon, indicating how the internet could like if net neutrality didn't exist.
It's not clear what this year's protest will look like yet, but with some of the biggest corporations and civil rights groups coming together to fight this, prepare to see something noteworthy.
If You Want to Lose Weight, This Is the Workout You Should Be Doing
A lot of women are turning to the weights to get into shape. It's a smart move. But for every woman picking up some dumbbells, there's an equal number who avoid them. Some think that weightlifting will make them bulky - which isn't true - and others don't think that pushing around some weight in the gym will help them lose a few pounds. But the truth? Strength training will definitely help you lose weight and is an integral part of how you can shape your body into the lean, fit machine you've always wanted! How does it work? What do you really have to do? What can you expect? Wow, you've got a lot of questions! Good thing we have all the answers!
More Muscle Is a Great Thing
Have you ever heard the phrase "the more muscle you have, the more fat you'll burn"? No? Well, trust us when we say it's definitely true. Let's look at the science: the body expends energy (calories) just to maintain muscle, and the more you have, the more energy your body needs to maintain it. What does that mean for you? Just having muscle burns calories, and having more muscle means burning even more calories. You may not think you'll be using a significant amount of energy and that you won't have a significant caloric loss just by building muscle, but it's enough to make a noticeable difference, as stated in many studies.
And if you think that you'll only be burning calories when you're actually using those new muscles, you're dead wrong. According to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, "You'll be burning fat while you sleep just for the fact that you have muscle to maintain." To put it simply, building muscles can help raise your resting metabolism.
Don't Trust the Scale
First off, you have to know one simple fact: strength training might actually make you gain weight. Let me explain before you freak out. Weight is a vague term typically used to describe how much a person actually weighs and frequently has little to do with your health or fitness levels.
According to Neff, "If you were to take five pounds of muscle and five pounds of fat, place them both in a bucket and compare the two side by side, the fat will take up a significant amount of room while the muscle takes up very little, yet they still weight the exact same. That's because fat cells are large, light, and fluffy, while muscle fibers are small and very dense."
So don't freak out when you step on the scale after a few weeks. Instead, revel in the glory of how well you fit in those new jeans!
How to Use Strength Training to Lose Weight
If you're trying to lose weight, then a good mix of cardio and strength training is the best plan. That's right, you can't just stop doing cardio - but at least you won't have to keep doing endless sessions on the treadmill. And if you double up, you should keep that cardio for after the weights. Why? "Strength training before cardio because cardio can deplete your body of energy and set you up for injury," Neff said. "Especially if you are going to be lifting heavier weights." If you can't see yourself doing strength training and cardio in the same workout, do your cardio on off days or in other venues (go for a walk, play a sport, or even take up LARP'ing - look it up! It's hilarious, geeky fun).
How often should you be strength training? Neff offers this advice: "Do your strength training three to four days per week and make sure you're not doing it back to back, especially if you're doing a full-body routine - always give yourself a day in between training for the muscles to recover and grow."
If You Want to Lose Weight, This Is the Workout You Should Be Doing
A lot of women are turning to the weights to get into shape. It's a smart move. But for every woman picking up some dumbbells, there's an equal number who avoid them. Some think that weightlifting will make them bulky - which isn't true - and others don't think that pushing around some weight in the gym will help them lose a few pounds. But the truth? Strength training will definitely help you lose weight and is an integral part of how you can shape your body into the lean, fit machine you've always wanted! How does it work? What do you really have to do? What can you expect? Wow, you've got a lot of questions! Good thing we have all the answers!
More Muscle Is a Great Thing
Have you ever heard the phrase "the more muscle you have, the more fat you'll burn"? No? Well, trust us when we say it's definitely true. Let's look at the science: the body expends energy (calories) just to maintain muscle, and the more you have, the more energy your body needs to maintain it. What does that mean for you? Just having muscle burns calories, and having more muscle means burning even more calories. You may not think you'll be using a significant amount of energy and that you won't have a significant caloric loss just by building muscle, but it's enough to make a noticeable difference, as stated in many studies.
And if you think that you'll only be burning calories when you're actually using those new muscles, you're dead wrong. According to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, "You'll be burning fat while you sleep just for the fact that you have muscle to maintain." To put it simply, building muscles can help raise your resting metabolism.
Don't Trust the Scale
First off, you have to know one simple fact: strength training might actually make you gain weight. Let me explain before you freak out. Weight is a vague term typically used to describe how much a person actually weighs and frequently has little to do with your health or fitness levels.
According to Neff, "If you were to take five pounds of muscle and five pounds of fat, place them both in a bucket and compare the two side by side, the fat will take up a significant amount of room while the muscle takes up very little, yet they still weight the exact same. That's because fat cells are large, light, and fluffy, while muscle fibers are small and very dense."
So don't freak out when you step on the scale after a few weeks. Instead, revel in the glory of how well you fit in those new jeans!
How to Use Strength Training to Lose Weight
If you're trying to lose weight, then a good mix of cardio and strength training is the best plan. That's right, you can't just stop doing cardio - but at least you won't have to keep doing endless sessions on the treadmill. And if you double up, you should keep that cardio for after the weights. Why? "Strength training before cardio because cardio can deplete your body of energy and set you up for injury," Neff said. "Especially if you are going to be lifting heavier weights." If you can't see yourself doing strength training and cardio in the same workout, do your cardio on off days or in other venues (go for a walk, play a sport, or even take up LARP'ing - look it up! It's hilarious, geeky fun).
How often should you be strength training? Neff offers this advice: "Do your strength training three to four days per week and make sure you're not doing it back to back, especially if you're doing a full-body routine - always give yourself a day in between training for the muscles to recover and grow."
2017's Hottest Country Stars Make Strumming a Guitar So Damn Sexy
Country musicians can't help but ooze good ol' fashioned sex appeal. Decked out in snug jeans and cowboy hats, passionately pouring their hearts out, nimbly strumming their guitars - how can you not fall for them? Save a horse, ride a cowboy, indeed.
Here are the hottest cowboys on the country music scene this year, a mix of fresh faces and fellas who've had a few rodeos under their belt. Now have a cold beer handy - things are about to heat up!
These 20 Maternity Dresses Will Make You the Most Stylish Wedding Guest
We get it - it can be really hard to find maternity clothes you like and even harder to find them for a special occasion. You want to look your best, but many popular brands don't carry maternity lines, making it difficult to seek out the stylish clothes you crave. Luckily, we searched the internet for gorgeous dresses so you don't have to. Check out these 20 maternity dresses that are perfect for wedding season and will allow you to look your best.
Prince Harry Has a Precious Reunion With a 97-Year-Old Widow in Sydney
Prince Harry had a special fan waiting to greet him when he visited Sydney on Wednesday. Ahead of the 2018 Invictus Games Launch Event, the famous royal had a precious reunion with Daphne Dunne, a war widow who famously stole a kiss from him when they first met in 2015. Wearing her first husband Albert Chowne's medals, which were awarded to him posthumously after he died during the Second World War, the 97-year-old braved the cold and rain as she waited for Harry. Not only did the 32-year-old recognize her right away as he greeted her with a warm hug, but she even stole another kiss from him - this time on the other side.
The prince has certainly been keeping busy these past few weeks. Aside from preparing for the Invictus Games in September, Harry recently traveled to Singapore for the first time to visit the Jamiyah Education Centre and partake in a charity polo match for his organization, Sentebale.
Jennifer Lopez and Her Mom Are 2 Peas in a Pod
Jennifer Lopez and her mom, Guadalupe Rodríguez, have always been tight. From helping her raise the #coconuts (that's J Lo's twins, in case you don't follow her Instagram as closely as we do) to traveling the world with her, Jen's mom is number one in her book.
"To this amazing force of nature!! My number one fan. My biggest cheerleader. The reason I am who I am today!! I LOVE YOU MOMMY!!," Jennifer captioned a photo she posted in honor of Mother's Day in 2016. That's so sweet. Keep scrolling to see the best photos of the mother-daughter duo.
10 Facts About Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen That Will Kinda Blow Your Mind
Image Source: Getty/Stephen Lovekin
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have been household names literally since the year they were born. After playing Michelle Tanner on Full House, the twins went on to create their very own childhood empire, complete with made-for-TV movies, big-screen blockbusters, and countless items of merchandise. The twins are now 30 and stay mostly out of the spotlight to run their fashion brand, The Row. While we've previously been curious about their past romances and Mary-Kate's intriguing marriage to Olivier Sarkozy, we also wanted to find out more general facts about their life in the spotlight. See them all below while we all keep our fingers crossed for a Michelle cameo on Fuller House!
- They're not identical. Mary-Kate and Ashley are fraternal twins. Ashley is two minutes older than Mary-Kate, is an inch shorter, and has a freckle above her upper lip.
- They made their acting debut shortly after they were born. The twins were cast as Michelle Tanner in Full House when they were just 6 months old, and they began filming when they were 9 months old.
- They wore dentures on set. Since Mary-Kate and Ashley played Michelle until they were 8, they went through typical childhood milestones during filming, including losing baby teeth. But since they lost different teeth at different rates, they both wore dentures so that Michelle had the same smile.
- Ashley's middle name is Fuller. In a weird twist of fate, Ashley's middle name mirrors the title of Full House's Netflix spinoff show, Fuller House. Since Mary-Kate's name is hyphenated, she technically has no middle name.
- They dominated Hollywood at a very young age. The twins became the youngest-ever Hollywood producers in 1992 when they formed the production company Dualstar. They were 6 years old.
- Both of their first onscreen kisses were in Passport to Paris. Their two love interests were played by Brocker Way and Ethan Peck.
Image Source: Everett Collection
- They once christened a cruise ship. Mary-Kate and Ashley christened the MS Zaandam in May 2000.
- They grew up with Pretty Little Liars' Troian Bellisario. Troian lived across the street from the twins whey they were younger, and the three girls became best friends.
- They have siblings. Mary-Kate and Ashley have a older brother, Brent, and a younger sister, Elizabeth, who has made quite a name for herself as an actress in recent years. They also have a half-sister, Courtney, and a half-brother, Jake, from their father's second marriage.
Image Source: Getty/Jamie McCarthy
- They made Walk of Fame history. Mary-Kate and Ashley were the first twins to receive a joint star of the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.
Meet the New Wave of Country Music Power Couples
Tim and Faith aren't going anywhere soon, but that doesn't mean a new crop of coupled-up country musicians can't rise up to join 'em. These pairs are not only talented, they are adorably gushy about just how much they love each other. Whether they're writing songs about their romance or just looking really cute together on the red carpet, they are starry-eyed, boot-wearin' relationship goals. Meet the new wave of country music power couples!
2017's Hottest Country Stars Make Strumming a Guitar So Damn Sexy
Country musicians can't help but ooze good ol' fashioned sex appeal. Decked out in snug jeans and cowboy hats, passionately pouring their hearts out, nimbly strumming their guitars - how can you not fall for them? Save a horse, ride a cowboy, indeed.
Here are the hottest cowboys on the country music scene this year, a mix of fresh faces and fellas who've had a few rodeos under their belt. Now have a cold beer handy - things are about to heat up!
10 Facts About Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen That Will Kinda Blow Your Mind
Image Source: Getty/Stephen Lovekin
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have been household names literally since the year they were born. After playing Michelle Tanner on Full House, the twins went on to create their very own childhood empire, complete with made-for-TV movies, big-screen blockbusters, and countless items of merchandise. The twins are now 30 and stay mostly out of the spotlight to run their fashion brand, The Row. While we've previously been curious about their past romances and Mary-Kate's intriguing marriage to Olivier Sarkozy, we also wanted to find out more general facts about their life in the spotlight. See them all below while we all keep our fingers crossed for a Michelle cameo on Fuller House!
- They're not identical. Mary-Kate and Ashley are fraternal twins. Ashley is two minutes older than Mary-Kate, is an inch shorter, and has a freckle above her upper lip.
- They made their acting debut shortly after they were born. The twins were cast as Michelle Tanner in Full House when they were just 6 months old, and they began filming when they were 9 months old.
- They wore dentures on set. Since Mary-Kate and Ashley played Michelle until they were 8, they went through typical childhood milestones during filming, including losing baby teeth. But since they lost different teeth at different rates, they both wore dentures so that Michelle had the same smile.
- Ashley's middle name is Fuller. In a weird twist of fate, Ashley's middle name mirrors the title of Full House's Netflix spinoff show, Fuller House. Since Mary-Kate's name is hyphenated, she technically has no middle name.
- They dominated Hollywood at a very young age. The twins became the youngest-ever Hollywood producers in 1992 when they formed the production company Dualstar. They were 6 years old.
- Both of their first onscreen kisses were in Passport to Paris. Their two love interests were played by Brocker Way and Ethan Peck.
Image Source: Everett Collection
- They once christened a cruise ship. Mary-Kate and Ashley christened the MS Zaandam in May 2000.
- They grew up with Pretty Little Liars' Troian Bellisario. Troian lived across the street from the twins whey they were younger, and the three girls became best friends.
- They have siblings. Mary-Kate and Ashley have a older brother, Brent, and a younger sister, Elizabeth, who has made quite a name for herself as an actress in recent years. They also have a half-sister, Courtney, and a half-brother, Jake, from their father's second marriage.
Image Source: Getty/Jamie McCarthy
- They made Walk of Fame history. Mary-Kate and Ashley were the first twins to receive a joint star of the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.
Meet the New Wave of Country Music Power Couples
Tim and Faith aren't going anywhere soon, but that doesn't mean a new crop of coupled-up country musicians can't rise up to join 'em. These pairs are not only talented, they are adorably gushy about just how much they love each other. Whether they're writing songs about their romance or just looking really cute together on the red carpet, they are starry-eyed, boot-wearin' relationship goals. Meet the new wave of country music power couples!
20 Must-Have Summer Items, Because We Know You Want an Excuse to Shop
It's hard to believe Summer's not technically here yet when we're already shopping away for the season. There's always something new to buy, whether it be a gingham-printed design or another pair of denim shorts. If you find yourself a little behind on shopping, however, we've got you covered. We narrowed down your list to 20 must-have fashion items. We know that sounds like a lot, but you likely have some of these pieces tucked away in your closet already. Do a scan first, and if you find an item you don't have, well, shop it right now.
These 20 Maternity Dresses Will Make You the Most Stylish Wedding Guest
We get it - it can be really hard to find maternity clothes you like and even harder to find them for a special occasion. You want to look your best, but many popular brands don't carry maternity lines, making it difficult to seek out the stylish clothes you crave. Luckily, we searched the internet for gorgeous dresses so you don't have to. Check out these 20 maternity dresses that are perfect for wedding season and will allow you to look your best.
This Genius Beauty Blender Cleaning Hack Only Takes 1 Minute
This is honestly the best way to get all make up off a beauty blender.
Put it in a cup with water and fairy liquid then microwave for 1min! http://pic.twitter.com/9pIR2l5ALE- 2CHINZz (@2chiinzzz) 6 June 2017
The majority of the beauty world bows down to beauty blending sponges. Despite a few good efforts at using household products to apply makeup, none quite come close to the reliable, good old Beautyblender.
However, although our love for the sponges that gave us a flawless base runs deep, cleaning them is the worst chore of them all. But fear not fellow beauty enthusiasts, one Twitter user has blown all of our tiny minds with a surprisingly simple but effective hack.
Laureen puts her Beautyblender in hot water mixed with dish soap, then zaps it in the microwave for one minute, ringing it out once the water has cooled. The foundation should be completely removed from the sponge, killing all of the bacteria in the process. You'll be left with a nearly new blender.
So far the post has reached 2,900 retweets and 9,100 likes. And many have replied with their own photographic evidence saying it really does work. Laureen also noted that it may possibly work with a tanning mitt too!
Made me realise I actually have a purple beauty blender 😅 http://pic.twitter.com/cmRofocnPc
- Lauren✨ (@LozzaMannn) 6 June 2017
Give this quick hack a go for yourself and watch your blenders go from grim to grand. As one Twitter user replied "this was the knowledge I didn't know I needed." We're with you, girl!
This Natural Anxiety Remedy Will Become a Part of Your Everyday Routine
"You have an emotional attachment to your oil diffuser," my boss said with a smile and a laugh. And she was right; after two years of relying (partly) on essential oils as a tool to mitigate anxiety and depression, I really do have an emotional attachment to it. Or at least, the ritual of diffusing. In fact, I can clearly remember the first day I considered giving it a shot - I was on the couch in my therapist's office, asking for alternatives to medication.
She rambled off a list of suggestions to me: "Take lavender capsules, try Bach Rescue Remedy drops, add valerian root extract to your tea, and definitely get an oil diffuser . . . start with lavender." I went out immediately to a natural market, bought a diffuser and some lavender oil, and went home to begin a practice that would soon become an everyday ritual.
Though not a cure-all, essential oils have been studied and shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression, at least a little bit. And while I don't credit aromatherapy for the entirety of my recovery and everyday balance, it really has become a fantastic form of self-care, something that is imperative to prioritize when you're dealing with any form of mental illness, mood disorder, or emotional turmoil.
There are dozens of natural treatments for anxiety, but I'm by no means suggesting you ignore the option of medication - I found a way to deal with my own mental health via alternative medicine, and if that's an avenue you're interested in exploring, I'd highly suggest using aromatherapy and oil diffusing as part of your holistic, comprehensive mental healthcare routine, especially before bedtime! Plus, who doesn't want their room to smell like soft lavender and eucalyptus as they drift off to sleep?
Here are some oils that can be soothing for anxiety, according to different scientific studies.
- Lavender: improved sleep, reduced depression, and reduced blood pressure
- Chamomile: reduced anxiety (physical and psychological symptoms) and improved quality of life
- Bergamot: improves mood
- Lemon and Citrus: can reduce anxiety during labor, so can probably reduce anxiety in other instances
- Geranium: reduces fatigue, anxiety, and stress
- Neroli: reduces blood pressure and anxiety
- Ylang-Ylang: can combat depression and anxiety
6 Reasons Why Summer Weddings Are More Fun
It's no surprise that some of the most popular months to tie the knot are June, August, and September. Summer automatically screams fun if you ask us, and with wedding season most prominent around this time of year, you can't go wrong - as long as you do it right. If you're debating whether you should have a Summer wedding, let us convince you that it's the season that can take your party to the next level. See six reasons why ahead.
My 1 Contribution to Parties Is This Cheap Trader Joe's Staple
You know how it's scientifically proven that you can't go to Target without buying at least three things that weren't on your list? The same is true for me at Trader Joe's, and there is one item in particular that I get every single time I'm there because I know I'll regret not having it in my kitchen: white cheddar popcorn. Call me basic, but I am a white cheddar popcorn aficionado and have tried just about every brand there is, and this glorious pink bag tops the list and earns the title of my favorite. It costs $2, has the perfect kernel-to-seasoning ratio, and may or may not be covered in crack because it's so addictive. Honestly, my only complaint is that the bag isn't bigger.
Not only is this the snack that I buy for myself on a regular basis, but it's also usually my sole contribution to parties, other than cheap wine. And guess what? Everyone always loves it, and there's never any left at the end of the night. So if you want to be the real MVP of any social gathering, don't show up with a fancy wedge of cheese. Just bring a bag (or 10) of this.
This Natural Anxiety Remedy Will Become a Part of Your Everyday Routine
"You have an emotional attachment to your oil diffuser," my boss said with a smile and a laugh. And she was right; after two years of relying (partly) on essential oils as a tool to mitigate anxiety and depression, I really do have an emotional attachment to it. Or at least, the ritual of diffusing. In fact, I can clearly remember the first day I considered giving it a shot - I was on the couch in my therapist's office, asking for alternatives to medication.
She rambled off a list of suggestions to me: "Take lavender capsules, try Bach Rescue Remedy drops, add valerian root extract to your tea, and definitely get an oil diffuser . . . start with lavender." I went out immediately to a natural market, bought a diffuser and some lavender oil, and went home to begin a practice that would soon become an everyday ritual.
Though not a cure-all, essential oils have been studied and shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression, at least a little bit. And while I don't credit aromatherapy for the entirety of my recovery and everyday balance, it really has become a fantastic form of self-care, something that is imperative to prioritize when you're dealing with any form of mental illness, mood disorder, or emotional turmoil.
There are dozens of natural treatments for anxiety, but I'm by no means suggesting you ignore the option of medication - I found a way to deal with my own mental health via alternative medicine, and if that's an avenue you're interested in exploring, I'd highly suggest using aromatherapy and oil diffusing as part of your holistic, comprehensive mental healthcare routine, especially before bedtime! Plus, who doesn't want their room to smell like soft lavender and eucalyptus as they drift off to sleep?
Here are some oils that can be soothing for anxiety, according to different scientific studies.
- Lavender: improved sleep, reduced depression, and reduced blood pressure
- Chamomile: reduced anxiety (physical and psychological symptoms) and improved quality of life
- Bergamot: improves mood
- Lemon and Citrus: can reduce anxiety during labor, so can probably reduce anxiety in other instances
- Geranium: reduces fatigue, anxiety, and stress
- Neroli: reduces blood pressure and anxiety
- Ylang-Ylang: can combat depression and anxiety
Jennifer Lopez and Her Mom Are 2 Peas in a Pod
Jennifer Lopez and her mom, Guadalupe Rodríguez, have always been tight. From helping her raise the #coconuts (that's J Lo's twins, in case you don't follow her Instagram as closely as we do) to traveling the world with her, Jen's mom is number one in her book.
"To this amazing force of nature!! My number one fan. My biggest cheerleader. The reason I am who I am today!! I LOVE YOU MOMMY!!," Jennifer captioned a photo she posted in honor of Mother's Day in 2016. That's so sweet. Keep scrolling to see the best photos of the mother-daughter duo.
mercredi 7 juin 2017
Let Shay Mitchell's Dreamy Summer Getaways Serve as Endless Inspiration For Your Next Trip
When it comes to Summer getaways, Shay Mitchell knows how to do them right: exotic locations, beautiful scenic shots, pools, cute sunglasses, and, of course, lots of bikinis. While her vacations may not look quite like yours, they're still fun to look at and serve as endless inspiration for your next trip. If the travel bug hasn't hit you already, it will once you see all of Shay's past Summer trips.
My 1 Contribution to Parties Is This Cheap Trader Joe's Staple
You know how it's scientifically proven that you can't go to Target without buying at least three things that weren't on your list? The same is true for me at Trader Joe's, and there is one item in particular that I get every single time I'm there because I know I'll regret not having it in my kitchen: white cheddar popcorn. Call me basic, but I am a white cheddar popcorn aficionado and have tried just about every brand there is, and this glorious pink bag tops the list and earns the title of my favorite. It costs $2, has the perfect kernel-to-seasoning ratio, and may or may not be covered in crack because it's so addictive. Honestly, my only complaint is that the bag isn't bigger.
Not only is this the snack that I buy for myself on a regular basis, but it's also usually my sole contribution to parties, other than cheap wine. And guess what? Everyone always loves it, and there's never any left at the end of the night. So if you want to be the real MVP of any social gathering, don't show up with a fancy wedge of cheese. Just bring a bag (or 10) of this.
20 Must-Have Summer Items, Because We Know You Want an Excuse to Shop
It's hard to believe Summer's not technically here yet when we're already shopping away for the season. There's always something new to buy, whether it be a gingham-printed design or another pair of denim shorts. If you find yourself a little behind on shopping, however, we've got you covered. We narrowed down your list to 20 must-have fashion items. We know that sounds like a lot, but you likely have some of these pieces tucked away in your closet already. Do a scan first, and if you find an item you don't have, well, shop it right now.
Let Shay Mitchell's Dreamy Summer Getaways Serve as Endless Inspiration For Your Next Trip
When it comes to Summer getaways, Shay Mitchell knows how to do them right: exotic locations, beautiful scenic shots, pools, cute sunglasses, and, of course, lots of bikinis. While her vacations may not look quite like yours, they're still fun to look at and serve as endless inspiration for your next trip. If the travel bug hasn't hit you already, it will once you see all of Shay's past Summer trips.
How to Watch the James Comey Hearing, Even If You Don't Have Cable
Former FBI Director James Comey is set to testify in front of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Thursday, June 8, regarding President Donald Trump and his campaign's alleged collusion with Russia during the 2016 presidential election. While most congressional hearings are relegated to C-Span, this unusually high-profile hearing will air on ABC, NBC, and CBS, starting at 9:45 a.m. ET. If you don't have cable, head over to Twitter, which will be live streaming the event in partnership with Bloomberg. The event is so popular that one bar in Washington DC is offering free drinks if Trump tweets about Comey during the hearing.
Union Pub DC announced the promotion on its Facebook page, writing:
TOMORROW: We open at 9:30AM & buying a round of drinks for the house every time Trump Tweets about Comey during his testimony! This "special" will run til Comey's testimony is over, or 4pm, whichever is earlier. #ThisTown #CapitolHill
Union Pub won't be the only establishment throwing a watch party, either. Four other bars in the DC area will reportedly host watch parties for Comey's testimony before the Senate, opening their doors a bit earlier for attendees to get a good seat (and drink). Check out the list ahead.
Thursday we are opening early for our Comey Hearing Covfefe! http://pic.twitter.com/o7o2XsFzl2
- Shaw's Tavern (@ShawsTavern) June 6, 2017
#ComeyHearing viewing party this Thursday! Opening at 10am with @redapronbutcher breakfast + The Last Word & Drop The Bomb drink specials. http://pic.twitter.com/5BjNvwstw1
- The Partisan (@ThePartisanDC) June 6, 2017
We will open at 9AM on Thursday for #ComeyHearing.
- Capitol Lounge (@CapLounge) June 5, 2017
Duffy's getting in on the Comey watch party action http://pic.twitter.com/HvDT35YMHR
- Tierney Sneed (@Tierney_Megan) June 6, 2017
The Perfect Way to Honor Prince Today Is With This Impeccable Tap Dancing Routine
Wednesday marked what would have been Prince's 59th birthday, and ever since his death in April 2016, fans of the singer have found ways to honor his legacy through music, art, and dance. First uploaded in May of last year, this tap routine by the Syncopated Ladies adds a fresh, new attitude to Prince's 1984 hit "When Doves Cry" - the choreography is on point, yes, but the emotion from these ladies that goes into it is truly something to appreciate. Watch the video above now, then look back on Prince's best, shadiest facial expressions.
The Perfect Way to Honor Prince Today Is With This Impeccable Tap Dancing Routine
Wednesday marked what would have been Prince's 59th birthday, and ever since his death in April 2016, fans of the singer have found ways to honor his legacy through music, art, and dance. First uploaded in May of last year, this tap routine by the Syncopated Ladies adds a fresh, new attitude to Prince's 1984 hit "When Doves Cry" - the choreography is on point, yes, but the emotion from these ladies that goes into it is truly something to appreciate. Watch the video above now, then look back on Prince's best, shadiest facial expressions.
Lizzie McGuire's Butterfly Hair Clips Are Back and Better Than They Were in the '90s
Growing up, there was rarely a day I left my house without one (or, like, five, if we're being honest) of my go-to butterfly clips securely fastened in my hair. I had quite the nifty collection of the creature-inspired accessories: an oversize glittery rainbow one (obviously my favorite), a sparkly silver option, a light-blue one, and a whole stash of those smaller multicolored plastic clips that were perfect for holding back my bangs. As someone who wore uniforms to school every day, butterfly clips were a way for me to stand out in the crowd and add my own personal flair to things.
My love for these insect-like adornments only grew stronger as I saw some of my favorite leading ladies sporting them on TV. Most notably, Hilary Duff (a.k.a. one of my childhood idols) regularly rocked butterfly clips while in character as Lizzie McGuire, the ultimate '90s babe. Plus, not one but two cast members on The Princess Diaries appeared in the film with these clips in their hair. Mandy Moore's cool-girl character had a few fastened in her hair when she belted out "Stupid Cupid" in the beach scene, while Lilly Moscovitz also wore them in her cropped 'do, thus proving any gal could rock them, popular or not.
Image Source: Disney
Fast forward to 2017, and my sacred butterfly clips that were once practically glued into my strands are unfortunately most likely buried in a landfill far, far away. But man, do I wish I had those babies in my bathroom drawer right now, because it looks like the clips are officially back on the beauty scene. That's right, ladies. Thanks to a sweeping obsession with all things nostalgic, butterfly clips, much like hair scrunchies, have been gloriously resurrected, and they're even better than they were in the '90s.
A prime example of this hair accessory's comeback? Vanessa Hudgens sported a handful of DIY-ed butterfly clips at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, proving that they'll make anyone look like a glamorous boho goddess rather than a little girl stuck in her preschool days.
A handful of retailers like Free People and Urban Outfitters noticed this throwback trend bubbling up again and have started selling a few chic options to let '90s babes revel in the nostalgia. But today's iterations aren't just those cheaply made plastic ones you used to buy at the drugstore - these new and improved versions are more modern and sleek representations of the elegant insects.
Ready to dive (or shall I say, flutter) back into our favorite decade and decorate your 'do with cute barrettes galore? Read on for the chicest festival-season-approved butterfly clips that are now on the market. This one's for you, Lizzie McGuire.
19 Times Rihanna Said, "F*ck the Fashion Rules," and Wore What She Wanted
Rihanna lives by her own style mantra: she'll wear whatever she wants, when she wants. The proof is in her outfits, from the Guo Pei robe she wore to the Met Gala to the onesie she rocked on the street. Her daring looks, by our definition, make her a fashion icon. Not only does she break the traditional rules when it comes to dressing, but she also does it with her own signature flair. Her grunge, punk-rock ensembles never lack that unexpected WOW factor, which makes her a true badass when it comes to style. Ahead, we rounded up 19 times Rihanna gave no f*cks about fashion rules and still stunned from every angle.
Lizzie McGuire's Butterfly Hair Clips Are Back and Better Than They Were in the '90s
Growing up, there was rarely a day I left my house without one (or, like, five, if we're being honest) of my go-to butterfly clips securely fastened in my hair. I had quite the nifty collection of the creature-inspired accessories: an oversize glittery rainbow one (obviously my favorite), a sparkly silver option, a light-blue one, and a whole stash of those smaller multicolored plastic clips that were perfect for holding back my bangs. As someone who wore uniforms to school every day, butterfly clips were a way for me to stand out in the crowd and add my own personal flair to things.
My love for these insect-like adornments only grew stronger as I saw some of my favorite leading ladies sporting them on TV. Most notably, Hilary Duff (a.k.a. one of my childhood idols) regularly rocked butterfly clips while in character as Lizzie McGuire, the ultimate '90s babe. Plus, not one but two cast members on The Princess Diaries appeared in the film with these clips in their hair. Mandy Moore's cool-girl character had a few fastened in her hair when she belted out "Stupid Cupid" in the beach scene, while Lilly Moscovitz also wore them in her cropped 'do, thus proving any gal could rock them, popular or not.
Image Source: Disney
Fast forward to 2017, and my sacred butterfly clips that were once practically glued into my strands are unfortunately most likely buried in a landfill far, far away. But man, do I wish I had those babies in my bathroom drawer right now, because it looks like the clips are officially back on the beauty scene. That's right, ladies. Thanks to a sweeping obsession with all things nostalgic, butterfly clips, much like hair scrunchies, have been gloriously resurrected, and they're even better than they were in the '90s.
A prime example of this hair accessory's comeback? Vanessa Hudgens sported a handful of DIY-ed butterfly clips at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, proving that they'll make anyone look like a glamorous boho goddess rather than a little girl stuck in her preschool days.
A handful of retailers like Free People and Urban Outfitters noticed this throwback trend bubbling up again and have started selling a few chic options to let '90s babes revel in the nostalgia. But today's iterations aren't just those cheaply made plastic ones you used to buy at the drugstore - these new and improved versions are more modern and sleek representations of the elegant insects.
Ready to dive (or shall I say, flutter) back into our favorite decade and decorate your 'do with cute barrettes galore? Read on for the chicest festival-season-approved butterfly clips that are now on the market. This one's for you, Lizzie McGuire.
11 Pride Month T-Shirts Filled With Joy, Love, and Lots of Rainbows
Be loud and proud this June while celebrating Pride Month. Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community by snagging one of the unique T-shirts we found. They all have positive messages that you'll want to put out into the world long after this month. Check out our favorite picks and buy some for you and your friends.
19 Times Rihanna Said, "F*ck the Fashion Rules," and Wore What She Wanted
Rihanna lives by her own style mantra: she'll wear whatever she wants, when she wants. The proof is in her outfits, from the Guo Pei robe she wore to the Met Gala to the onesie she rocked on the street. Her daring looks, by our definition, make her a fashion icon. Not only does she break the traditional rules when it comes to dressing, but she also does it with her own signature flair. Her grunge, punk-rock ensembles never lack that unexpected WOW factor, which makes her a true badass when it comes to style. Ahead, we rounded up 19 times Rihanna gave no f*cks about fashion rules and still stunned from every angle.
How to Find Your Dream Apartment on Craigslist
Scattered amongst the Craigslist advertisements for jobs, questionable meet-ups, and furniture for sale, are some amazing housing options. It can all seem really daunting trying to find your dream apartment on the internet, especially if you're moving to a new city. However, having been on both sides of the search field, both as a renter and a landlord, I believe strongly that it's fully possible to find your perfect pad using Craigslist.
1) Do be very honest with your needs.
When my husband and I were looking to buy a place, we sat down privately and generated a list of our top five must-haves. As much as I'd love to say that we got everything within our budget, there were a couple things that just were not going to happen without drastically ticking up our down-payment. However, it didn't matter that our building didn't have a fireplace or rooftop deck since we got our big wish-list items, which were more contingent on location and building size. Finding your dream Craigslist apartment should be a very similar process. Make a list of your top five desires and put them in order. I hate to break it to you, but if you have pets or need a non-smoking environment, those have to go at the top of your list. Landlords and rental companies have thought long and hard about their policies, and sneaking in a pet is the quickest way to ruin the relationship.
2) Don't forget to use your search tools wisely.
On the apartment/housing page you'll be given the opportunity to complete a search from. As a general rule, I only view listings with photos. If they haven't posted photos, there's probably a reason for it, either the place isn't as nice as they're saying, it's a scam, or the rental company can't be bothered to take a couple photos. Craigslist still has some issues with their searching keywords. You might be searching for an amazing flat in Park Slope, but all that comes up is apartments near a park. Thank the housing Gods for the map filter, so you can search by location just by zooming in on your desired neighborhoods. If you're feeling extra tech oriented, save your search parameters into google alerts and let the internet do your apartment hunting for you.
3) Do take the time to write an actual email.
This may sound like a no brainer, but the quickest way to ruin your chances to rent an apartment is to send a curt or typo-laden email. When I post my apartments for rent on Craigslist, I often get 20-30 emails the first day, and at the risk of seeming rude, I don't have time to deal with terribly written emails. I'm entrusting my property to you, the least you can do is take the time to draft a carefully worded message. Believe me, if you write an email that is error-free, polite, and tells a little about yourself, you will stand out from the rest. Essentially, you should put the same effort into your email for an apartment that you would for a job.
4) Do take a "test drive" in your desired neighborhood.
If you are familiar with the neighborhood you are hoping to move into, that's great. But for a lot of renters, they're looking to explore a new neighborhood or city and aren't quite sure where to begin. I'm a big believer of walkable neighborhoods, so I like to get the walkscore of all the apartments that I want to send an email about. I also recommend going for a walk on google street view, because while the apartment may claim to be "close to a train station," in actuality it's backed up against the tracks and suddenly your dream apartment shakes every five minutes.
5) Don't come unprepared.
Especially in a competitive market, never show up to an apartment empty handed. No, I'm not suggesting you bring them a bottle of wine (although I have to say bribery would have worked on me), but it is very important that you show up with all the necessary paperwork. You should bring a copy of your driver license, a recent credit check, a completed application (if one was provided ahead of time), and any letters of reference. Doing this might be necessary in certain housing markets, but even in a small town it helps to be professional and prepared.
6) Do be chatty but don't reveal too much.
At lot of the time, who a landlord decides to rent to comes down to who they like. So please, be chatty and sociable. Ask questions about the building and if you're interested, show it. It was always perplexing to me to have someone look at the place, basically ignore me, make some snide comments about the paint color, and then ask if they can have the apartment. It doesn't pay to be rude. However, this is not the time for a therapy session. If you're looking for a new place because you've broken up with your boyfriend for the fifth time this year, maybe keep that to yourself. If you're only going to be staying there for a year or less, definitely keep that to yourself. It costs a lot of money and time to get a place ready to be rented by new tenants, and most landlords would rather rent to someone who is going to be there long term.
7) Don't skim the lease, actually read it.
I'm going to sound like the meanest landlord in the world, but I don't want my tenants to put nails in the wall. If they want to hang art they need to use the picture rail and wire. I also don't want my tenants to do laundry at odd or late hours because the machine is loud and will wake up the whole building. Both of these restrictions are clearly stated in our lease, as is our right to withhold any amount of the deposit in the case of damage to the property. Read the lease very carefully and if there is anything that is unclear or vague, ask questions. You have the right to understand the living agreement, but there will likely be some rules that need to be followed. If there is something that you can't work with, like you had your heart set on painting the place and the lease says no painting, either negotiate or move on to the next apartment.
This Is the 1 Product Every Rainbow-Haired Beauty Needs For Healthier Hair
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Brittni Rhoden
I have put my hair through a lot over the years. I've done many colors of the rainbow with a harsh bleaching in between, and while my hair is pretty durable, the color has taken a bit of a toll. There was actually a point a few years ago where I dyed my hair pink, and when I wanted to change colors, I couldn't actually get the bleach to take the pink out. Naturally, I then thought it would be a good idea to just keep bleaching it over and over in hopes that the pink would come out. I don't know how I still had hair or skin at the end of that ordeal, but somehow I pulled through.
But now, I've discovered the secret to changing my rainbow hair without wreaking havoc on my hair and scalp. Enter Pravana's Pure Light Crème Lightener.
Before
Image Source: Pravana
I started with the fade out of my Lime Crime pink ombré and a pretty terrible texture from hot-tool abuse. (I live for my flat iron; I can't help it.) I put my hair in the hands of Pravana and its experts, and hair color superwoman Lissette Cruz got to work at taking my color out. She used the Pure Light Crème Lightener to remove the color, and it literally took less than five minutes.
The lightener has a coconut oil base so it's ultranourishing on your hair, which is exactly what you need if you frequently change your colors. I asked her how it works, and she said the lightener opens up the hairs and pulls the color out gently rather than harshly stripping it away like some other products. The lightener can lift up to five levels - and fast.
Get a load of my hair after just five minutes with the lightener (and after a rinse, of course)!
After lightening
Image Source: Pravana
Check out that amazing light gray color we ended up with! Lissette even joked that she wouldn't have been able to get that color if she tried, and had I not wanted brand-new mermaid hair in the end, I would have been tempted to keep this. Alas, this was a stepping stone. But normally after taking color out, my hair ends up a bit brittle and very fragile. It can handle it, but it has its limits.
After the Pure Light Crème Lightener, though, my hair was soft and smooth and ready to take on a whole new life.
And that's where colorist Jordan Glindmyer came in. I told this self-proclaimed mermaid that she could do whatever she wanted with my hair. After toning my hair with ChromaSilk Express Tones in Smokey Silver, Jordan pulled together a color palette fit for a mermaid. Or a unicorn, whichever you prefer.
"I wanted to work with the existing regrowth, so I utilized violet on the root and did diagonal and horizontal sections throughout the head, alternating formulas on her ends to create a flawless blend regardless of how she chooses to part or style her hair," Jordan said.
The colors she used were Neons Neon Pink, Vivids Violet, Neons Neon Blue, Vivids Yellow, Vivids Clear (an additive to lighten/pastel creative colors for more customization), Vivids Moody Blue, and Vivids Magenta. And while it sounds like that's a lot going on, the finished look was flawless.
After
Image Source: Pravana
Not only is the color amazing, but seriously, the lightener boosted my hair health in a crazy way. I have naturally tangly and difficult hair, but the lightener took care of all of that. There are no tangles to be found, and my hair is shinier than ever. Rainbow-haired friends, next time you want to change colors, you have to use Pravana's Pure Light Crème Lightener. Your hair will thank you.
10 Places to Visit If You Love Paris
What comes to mind when you think of Paris? Chic French women sipping wine at outdoor cafés? Beautiful buildings lining the Seine? Trisha Ping, an editor for Lonely Planet, says two words top her list: elegance and history. "Paris manages to be modern while feeling timeless, a tough balance and a really alluring combination for visitors." Paris is special thanks to its well-preserved architecture, picturesque river, and numerous street performers and buzzing cafes, says Ping's fellow Lonely Planet destination editor Bailey Freeman. "Everything feels like a scene out of a film, and you'll find yourself stumbling over fascinating encounters and perfectly framed moments," she tells us.
Is there anywhere else on earth that can compare? Possibly. If you crave that feeling you get when you're in Paris - but still have an urge to discover new cities - you'll want to start with these 10 spots.
12 Tips For Sleeping on a Plane Like a Pro
I'm an expert at sleeping on planes. I'm the worst travel companion, because when my head hits the back of those weird, bendable, and only slightly functional plane seat pillows, I'm out like a light. I always have these lofty goals of getting work done, making a dent in my book, or catching up on a movie I've been meaning to watch for months, but that almost never happens. Even if I don't immediately doze off, I'm able to get to sleep easily with a few little tricks that make the flight fly by . . . since I usually find myself waking up as we land.
If you are a nervous flyer or just can't ever seem to get comfortable enough to fall asleep on a plane, then here are some things to try that really work.
- Get a neck pillow. I know, they aren't necessarily the most stylish things in the world, and they can be annoying to carry around. But if you have a carry-on, it's easy to just hook the pillow around the handles of the suitcase, or tuck it in a bag (you can even get ones that inflate/deflate). If you get a bad seat or a terrible plane chair, then these are lifesavers when trying to fall asleep.
- Order a glass of wine. Some will say this isn't always your best bet for falling asleep, but I personally call bullsh*t. When there's turbulence and I'm starting to see my life flash before my eyes, a soothing glass of red wine (or a small bottle if the airline is doing it right) helps me relax and makes me nice and sleepy.
- Listen to a calming travel playlist. A calming playlist will help calm any nerves you may have - especially during takeoff. The music also helps drown out random plane noises that make you anxious, crying babies, or those loud talkers who don't seem to realize they are on a plane with 150-plus other people. Make sure to use the "download to phone" feature before you fly, otherwise you won't be able to access Spotify when you're in the air.
- Before leaving your house, download episodes of your favorite TV show. Instead of depending on the in-flight entertainment or downloading a movie you've never seen, choose something you have watched a million times and know you love, and download episodes to your iPhone or iPad so you can watch while you fly. This can be comforting and familiar since you've already seen the show, so you don't feel like you have to pay attention. It helps you relax and ultimately aids in sleep.
- Bring a book to read. I don't leave the house without some sort of access to several books, usually on my Kindle app on my phone or iPad. But when you're flying, bring a "real" book instead, so that the light of your phone/Kindle doesn't keep you awake. Make it a fun, light book - I'm talking a nice YA romance or comedic memoir . . . not Ulysses.
- Get an eye mask. Eye masks help block out lights from the window or your neighbor's TV, phone, iPad, computer, etc. They definitely help give the illusion that it's nighttime - even if it's not.
- Choose a window seat. Make sure when you book your flight that you pick a window seat if you can. If you aren't able to snag one, always check back the night before your flight when you go to check in; sometimes window seats have opened up if people switched their tickets/seats around. There's always hope!
- Don't nap the day of your flight. Try to do what you can to stay awake until the plane takes off so that you're totally exhausted by the time you sit down.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Wear clothes and shoes that you can move around comfortably in so that no matter what position you end up taking in your plane seat, you're able to relax and fall asleep.
- Bring a blanket. Or if you don't want to awkwardly carry around a big blanket, bring or wear a jacket, poncho, or sweater that serves well as a cover-up and can double as a blanket when you're cuddling up in your chair.
- Be open to paying for extra leg room. If you have a really hard time sleeping on a plane, upgrading to extra leg room (especially on a long flight) can make ALL the difference.
- Bring earbuds. ALWAYS. Without earbuds, sleep will most certainly elude you.
This Is the 1 Product Every Rainbow-Haired Beauty Needs For Healthier Hair
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Brittni Rhoden
I have put my hair through a lot over the years. I've done many colors of the rainbow with a harsh bleaching in between, and while my hair is pretty durable, the color has taken a bit of a toll. There was actually a point a few years ago where I dyed my hair pink, and when I wanted to change colors, I couldn't actually get the bleach to take the pink out. Naturally, I then thought it would be a good idea to just keep bleaching it over and over in hopes that the pink would come out. I don't know how I still had hair or skin at the end of that ordeal, but somehow I pulled through.
But now, I've discovered the secret to changing my rainbow hair without wreaking havoc on my hair and scalp. Enter Pravana's Pure Light Crème Lightener.
Before
Image Source: Pravana
I started with the fade out of my Lime Crime pink ombré and a pretty terrible texture from hot-tool abuse. (I live for my flat iron; I can't help it.) I put my hair in the hands of Pravana and its experts, and hair color superwoman Lissette Cruz got to work at taking my color out. She used the Pure Light Crème Lightener to remove the color, and it literally took less than five minutes.
The lightener has a coconut oil base so it's ultranourishing on your hair, which is exactly what you need if you frequently change your colors. I asked her how it works, and she said the lightener opens up the hairs and pulls the color out gently rather than harshly stripping it away like some other products. The lightener can lift up to five levels - and fast.
Get a load of my hair after just five minutes with the lightener (and after a rinse, of course)!
After lightening
Image Source: Pravana
Check out that amazing light gray color we ended up with! Lissette even joked that she wouldn't have been able to get that color if she tried, and had I not wanted brand-new mermaid hair in the end, I would have been tempted to keep this. Alas, this was a stepping stone. But normally after taking color out, my hair ends up a bit brittle and very fragile. It can handle it, but it has its limits.
After the Pure Light Crème Lightener, though, my hair was soft and smooth and ready to take on a whole new life.
And that's where colorist Jordan Glindmyer came in. I told this self-proclaimed mermaid that she could do whatever she wanted with my hair. After toning my hair with ChromaSilk Express Tones in Smokey Silver, Jordan pulled together a color palette fit for a mermaid. Or a unicorn, whichever you prefer.
"I wanted to work with the existing regrowth, so I utilized violet on the root and did diagonal and horizontal sections throughout the head, alternating formulas on her ends to create a flawless blend regardless of how she chooses to part or style her hair," Jordan said.
The colors she used were Neons Neon Pink, Vivids Violet, Neons Neon Blue, Vivids Yellow, Vivids Clear (an additive to lighten/pastel creative colors for more customization), Vivids Moody Blue, and Vivids Magenta. And while it sounds like that's a lot going on, the finished look was flawless.
After
Image Source: Pravana
Not only is the color amazing, but seriously, the lightener boosted my hair health in a crazy way. I have naturally tangly and difficult hair, but the lightener took care of all of that. There are no tangles to be found, and my hair is shinier than ever. Rainbow-haired friends, next time you want to change colors, you have to use Pravana's Pure Light Crème Lightener. Your hair will thank you.
Here's How to Stick to a Workout Plan, Once and For All
Faced with a seemingly endless supply of trendy new workouts that all promise a better body and improved health, choosing the best one can seem overwhelming. As a doctor, I'm setting the record straight: the single best exercise program is the one that you stick with. The simplest way to do this, of course, is to focus on physical activity that you actually enjoy and avoid anything that you hate (even if every Victoria's Secret model swears by it). But beyond common sense, there are plenty of science-backed methods for sticking to an exercise program. If you've ever had grand plans of overhauling your fitness routine only to find yourself returning to your couch three weeks later, these techniques are for you.
Shorten your workouts.
Though it sounds counterintuitive, focusing on shorter bouts of exercise has distinct advantages over longer workouts. In a study among young women who were asked to start an exercise program, those that were assigned to multiple 10-minute workouts throughout the day stayed more committed than women who were asked to complete one continuous workout of up to 40 minutes. In fact, the shorter-bout group logged more total workout time and exercised more days per week compared to the longer workout group. Rest assured: the cumulative effect exercising in short bouts has the same physical benefits as longer workouts, both in terms of weight loss and overall heart health.
Believe in yourself.
Decades of studies on exercise psychology have consistently identified self-efficacy as the most important predictor of exercise adherence. Self-efficacy is defined as the belief in one's ability to succeed in a specific goal or behavior change - much like the "I think I can" mantra of the little engine that could. Self-efficacy is, thankfully, not an inborn trait but a learned skill that can be developed through achieving small successes over time. When starting a new exercise program, set yourself up for small wins and celebrate them. Focus on the better night's sleep you may get after just one workout, instead of the weight you hope to lose by the end of the month. Another way to improve self-efficacy is to find a role model you identify with who has achieved her fitness goals. Research shows this can vicariously bolster your own self-efficacy.
Make it social.
Though it's not surprising, the dramatic effect of social support on exercise is worth emphasizing. In an analysis of 44 studies on exercise adherence, researchers found that it was highest when it involved a group, like a sports team or a dance group. Drop-in fitness classes were associated with slightly lower adherence, but they were still superior to solo, home-based exercise programs. Even if home-based exercise is your only feasible option, you can still harness the power of social support by recruiting a family member or friend to work out with you, or harnessing the power of an online community. Some studies even suggest that simply discussing your plans to exercise with a health care provider, mentor, or friend can increase your likelihood of following through with it.
Adopt other healthy habits.
A handful of studies have demonstrated that people who prioritize eating a healthy diet are more likely to be active. The theory is that engaging in one health-promoting behavior tends to inspire others, and although the link is strongest between healthy eating habits and exercise, it's likely that any healthy behavior – like getting a full night's sleep or even flossing your teeth - can increase your probability of following through with exercise.
Keep your expectations in check.
If you expect to see a physical transformation within the first few weeks of starting an exercise program, you may be less likely to keep at it. Studies of new exercisers have found that those with unrealistic expectations of physical change tended to give up when their hopes were not immediately met. Health psychologists have dubbed this the "false hope syndrome." To avoid it, remember that noticeable physical changes from a new exercise routine can take months to develop. And if your goal is weight loss, it's important to know that exercise alone - without dietary changes - typically isn't enough. What you can expect from exercise, however, are short-term improvements in mood and sleep, and in the long term, a dramatically reduced risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, dementia, and several different types of cancer. How's that for motivation?
Here's How to Stick to a Workout Plan, Once and For All
Faced with a seemingly endless supply of trendy new workouts that all promise a better body and improved health, choosing the best one can seem overwhelming. As a doctor, I'm setting the record straight: the single best exercise program is the one that you stick with. The simplest way to do this, of course, is to focus on physical activity that you actually enjoy and avoid anything that you hate (even if every Victoria's Secret model swears by it). But beyond common sense, there are plenty of science-backed methods for sticking to an exercise program. If you've ever had grand plans of overhauling your fitness routine only to find yourself returning to your couch three weeks later, these techniques are for you.
Shorten your workouts.
Though it sounds counterintuitive, focusing on shorter bouts of exercise has distinct advantages over longer workouts. In a study among young women who were asked to start an exercise program, those that were assigned to multiple 10-minute workouts throughout the day stayed more committed than women who were asked to complete one continuous workout of up to 40 minutes. In fact, the shorter-bout group logged more total workout time and exercised more days per week compared to the longer workout group. Rest assured: the cumulative effect exercising in short bouts has the same physical benefits as longer workouts, both in terms of weight loss and overall heart health.
Believe in yourself.
Decades of studies on exercise psychology have consistently identified self-efficacy as the most important predictor of exercise adherence. Self-efficacy is defined as the belief in one's ability to succeed in a specific goal or behavior change - much like the "I think I can" mantra of the little engine that could. Self-efficacy is, thankfully, not an inborn trait but a learned skill that can be developed through achieving small successes over time. When starting a new exercise program, set yourself up for small wins and celebrate them. Focus on the better night's sleep you may get after just one workout, instead of the weight you hope to lose by the end of the month. Another way to improve self-efficacy is to find a role model you identify with who has achieved her fitness goals. Research shows this can vicariously bolster your own self-efficacy.
Make it social.
Though it's not surprising, the dramatic effect of social support on exercise is worth emphasizing. In an analysis of 44 studies on exercise adherence, researchers found that it was highest when it involved a group, like a sports team or a dance group. Drop-in fitness classes were associated with slightly lower adherence, but they were still superior to solo, home-based exercise programs. Even if home-based exercise is your only feasible option, you can still harness the power of social support by recruiting a family member or friend to work out with you, or harnessing the power of an online community. Some studies even suggest that simply discussing your plans to exercise with a health care provider, mentor, or friend can increase your likelihood of following through with it.
Adopt other healthy habits.
A handful of studies have demonstrated that people who prioritize eating a healthy diet are more likely to be active. The theory is that engaging in one health-promoting behavior tends to inspire others, and although the link is strongest between healthy eating habits and exercise, it's likely that any healthy behavior – like getting a full night's sleep or even flossing your teeth - can increase your probability of following through with exercise.
Keep your expectations in check.
If you expect to see a physical transformation within the first few weeks of starting an exercise program, you may be less likely to keep at it. Studies of new exercisers have found that those with unrealistic expectations of physical change tended to give up when their hopes were not immediately met. Health psychologists have dubbed this the "false hope syndrome." To avoid it, remember that noticeable physical changes from a new exercise routine can take months to develop. And if your goal is weight loss, it's important to know that exercise alone - without dietary changes - typically isn't enough. What you can expect from exercise, however, are short-term improvements in mood and sleep, and in the long term, a dramatically reduced risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, dementia, and several different types of cancer. How's that for motivation?
Cover Your Ugly Carpet With These 10 Area Rugs, All Under $300
My entire apartment is covered with old beige carpet that is so dirty it now looks brown. I can't stand it. This Summer, I'm on a mission to brighten up my space and give it some much-needed love. After I get an extensive carpet cleaning, I plan to cover every room in my house with area rugs. But I'm a girl on a budget and eight-foot-by-10-foot rugs do not come cheap. To solve this, I searched high and low and found these vibrant picks at affordable prices. If you're in a similar boat, take a look at my finds and choose one that will look best in your home.
Ed Sheeran Once Smacked Justin Bieber in the Face With a Golf Club When He Was Hammered
Ed Sheeran participated in his first ever "Carpool Karaoke" session on The Late Late Show With James Corden on Tuesday night, and it was every bit as magical as we thought it would be. Not only did he make perfect harmony with the host as he crooned his biggest hits, but he also threw in a few songs by his famous friends, including One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" and Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself," which he wrote. He even shared a hilarious story about when he got hammered in a bar in Tokyo and ended up whacking Justin in the face with a golf club. Of course, one of the cutest moments had to be when Ed and James rapped to "Sing" without taking a breath.
The Powerful Way Makeup Helped This Woman With a Feeding Tube "Feel Gorgeous"
Emily Jones is just like many aspiring makeup artists on Instagram - she has long lashes, perfectly penciled eyebrows, and loves a good matte lip. But unlike others, Emily has a rare tissue disease called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (type 3) and has a feeding tube taped to the side of her face. While she was undeniably "self-conscious" because of her disease, the 22-year-old woman has credited makeup for helping bring back her confidence. . . and she's got some serious makeup skills!
As a self-proclaimed "aspiring makeup artist," one may wonder if a feeding tube taped to the side of her face gets in the way of her glittery looks, but Emily told Allure she works around it. "I create looks around my tube by leaving a little bit of a gap around the edges so the tape doesn't come off or come loose," she said. "I try to put lots of drama on my eyes, the other side of my face or on my lips to detract from the tube. But the tube is a part of me, and I'm grateful for it as it and the nourishment it gives me when I can't keep anything down myself."
Just three years ago, she developed a love for makeup after watching tons of YouTube tutorials. Emily credits Carli Bybel and Nikkie Tutorials for not only teaching her how to get a bomb winged eye, but for helping her believe in her own skills. And she plans to start her own YouTube channel one day!
"Makeup means everything to me it gives me the confidence to be myself without the judgment of others," she said. "Makeup takes away the self-consciousness I feel because of my NG tube and makes me feel gorgeous! [Highlighter] makes me glow and brings out confidence and happiness in me."
By sharing her love for makeup on Instagram, Emily is inspiring others to embrace their own differences and do whatever makes them happy.
Keep reading to see some of Emily's makeup looks.
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