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.
vendredi 9 juin 2017
5 Latinas Who Got Their Start on the Disney Channel
We have the Disney Channel to thank for starting the careers of some of our favorite stars. Who doesn't remember Selena Gomez as the witch we all wanted to be, Alex Russo, on Wizards of Waverly Place? And never forget that Christina Aguilera became Xtina after breaking into Hollywood on the hit show The All New Mickey Mouse Club. The number of hours we've spend watching these Latinx actors on Disney might be shameful to some, but we wouldn't have it any other way. Keep reading to see the other celebrities who got their start on Disney.
Pretty Little Liars: We Have Every Reason to Believe Someone's Gonna Die on the Series Finale
When Pretty Little Liars wraps up forever on June 27, it will be with multiple weddings and probably multiple deaths. I mean, there's a psychopath out there (as usual), and it's called "Till Death Do Us Part," which can't just be about weddings, considering it's this show.
I had the chance to chat with series creator I. Marlene King and a group of reporters at ATX this week, and obviously, I asked her if there will be any deaths on the series finale. She gave it some thought, admitting, "My God, I have to think back because my PLL brain has died," which makes sense, since the series actually wrapped several months ago, and since then, she's been hard at work on her new series, Famous in Love.
After reiterating that "It's the deadliest season ever," she paused, and said, "I'm keepin' it real mum about that, because I don't want to mess anything up in this final moment. It's exciting and it's very big, I'll say." So yeah, she essentially revealed nothing . . . or did she? If the answer was no, it's very easy to say no, especially considering the finale promises plenty of other reasons to watch. And of course, there was that time she tweeted the line of dialogue where someone says, "Are you here to kill me?" from the final season's script. It's safe to say that no one is safe.
20 Ways to Chill Out and Help Stop Stress
It's been proven that exercise eases anxiety and depression, but some days require a little something extra. Here are some healthy habits that will help you keep calm and carry on during those super stressful days.
What to Eat When a Headache Hits
When dealing with an aching head, it's become so easy to pop some pills. If you're trying to steer clear of pain relievers, some of the best help can come from the produce aisle.
- Potato: After a night out, you may think that a plate of greasy fries is the way to go; forget the french fries and go for a baked potato instead. Foods high in potassium have proven to help alleviate bad headaches, and a baked potato with its skin offers up to a whopping 600 mg.
- Bananas: The dynamic duo of potassium and magnesium come to the rescue in one tasty piece of fruit. Magnesium's calming effects are a huge help when trying to alleviate an achy head.
- Watermelon: A lot of the time when dealing with a headache, chances are you may be dehydrated. A water-rich fruit like watermelon can give you a huge boost and also serves as a solid source of potassium and magnesium!
- Pineapple: Fresh pineapple can also help soothe your headache woes. The natural enzyme bromelain has been linked for centuries as a form of natural pain relief. It also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that can help get your head right as well.
- Cucumber: In the same vein as watermelon, cucumber can help cut dehydration out of the picture. Composed of 95 percent water, the highly hydrating cucumber is a perfect option for a fresh, headache-fighting snack.
10 Celebrity Couples Who Broke Up Before Getting Married
Hey, sometimes you need a break! While it may not be the most common tactic, many famous long-term relationships have proven to be made stronger after a split - even royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton took a break from their relationship before getting married in the biggest, most lavish ceremony of our time. They'll likely tell you that there's nothing wrong with taking a timeout from your relationship to figure things out, get your priorities straight, and be reminded of just how much you love someone. Keep reading to see the high-profile pairs who broke up before ultimately tying the knot.
7 Travel Secrets From the Founder of Website Scott's Cheap Flights
I've experienced firsthand how to travel on a budget, but it does require some research, constant airline scanning, and, oftentimes, a bit of luck. There are also awesome travel sites out there that can help you save on airfare, and of course and there's always good ol' fashioned saving up. But those who've nailed the strategy of sitting on flights and jumping on them at the perfect time are professionals for a reason, like Scott Keyes of Scott's Cheap Flights who scans the most affordable international air prices and alerts you at the perfect moment. Thankfully, he answered various questions on a Reddit iAMA that will hopefully do you some good on your next vacation. Check out seven tips and favorites he shared with users.
1. Where is your favorite travel destination that you only discovered after finding a cheap flight there?
"Oh, great question! This is going to sound silly, but Milan. I had zero interest in going to Milan, until I found a nonstop flight there for $130 round trip. Who wouldn't go to Milan for $130 round trip? Granted, I didn't spend a ton of time in the city itself (aside from seeing an AC Milan game), but there's so much magic in northern Italy. Took a train to hike Cinque Terre, took a train up to Lake Como for the day, even took a train out to the Italy/Switzerland border to ski the alps right by the Matterhorn. All on a whim! Likely never would've gotten to do any of that if not for the cheap flight."
2. Any tips on saving on hotel costs?
"I'm a big fan of Airbnb to be honest. Usually far better central location for the same price, ya know?"
3. Any successful honeymoon stories?
"You're absolutely right that honeymoons can be suuuuper expensive, especially with Summer flights and whatnot. But one of the most gratifying success stories I see each day are couples who didn't think they'd be able to afford a honeymoon but ended up getting one because of the list! Some of the more popular honeymoon destinations for US travelers of late (along with price):
- Paris for $351 round trip
- Mallorca for $469 round trip
- Croatia for $541 round trip
- Rome for $498 round trip
- Hawaii for $475 round trip
Not nothing, obviously, but hopefully much more affordable than the $1000-to-Europe many people are used to paying!"
4. What do you think about solo travel?
"Oh man. I highly recommend everyone travel solo at least once, purely as a learning and get-to-know-you experience. But personally once I've gotten that growth out of the way, I'm a big fan of shared experiences. Misery loves company."
5. How long would a stopover have to be before you decide it isn't worth the saving?
"Great question. The answer is partly to each his own, but also partly depends on the city you're laying over in. If it's in a city like Frankfurt with a quick-and-easy train from the airport to the city, I actually like half-day layovers because it gives me a chance to sample a new city that I might not have seen otherwise and then decide if it's worth coming back to. I've gotten to do that in places like Frankfurt, Seoul, Hong Kong, etc. But you're definitely right that multi-leg trips are usually much more exhausting than direct flights. Nice if you can get 'em cheap!"
6. Any advice on finding a good deal on flights to Colombia in June or July?
"Cheap flights to Colombia pop up fairly regularly, so don't book too early. (Don't wait too long either since it's peak Summer.) I'd recommend monitoring prices and booking if they get below $350 round trip, and setting late March or so as the deadline to book if nothing great has popped up before then."
7. What are some must-see places in London?
- "Take a free guided walking tour the first day to get oriented and learn the city of London."
- "Get high tea at the Saatchi Gallery."
- "Go to the British Museum, of course."
- "Get lunch at the Borough Market."
- "It's a great city for wandering, so don't be afraid to throw away the plans and just explore."
Hillary Clinton Actually Practiced Avoiding an "Unwanted Trump Hug" - and the Video Is Gold
Image Source: Getty / Win McNamee
Hillary Clinton may not have won the White House, but at least she didn't get caught in the crossfire of Donald Trump's creepy brand of physical contact. On Friday, Hillary's longtime aide Philippe Reines shared a hilarious (albeit grainy) video showing the two prepping for a debate back in September 2016; while walking out and waving to the imaginary crowd, Philippe goes in for a hug while Hillary artfully dodges it, instead offering a high five. He captioned the clip, "Not easy to avoid the unwanted Trump hug, sometimes it even takes practice . . ." and called it a "favorite moment" from their debate preps last year.
Not easy to avoid the unwanted Trump hug, sometimes it even takes practice...
A favorite moment from debate prep (9/24/16): http://pic.twitter.com/JAAHaqKFoa- Philippe Reines (@PhilippeReines) May 19, 2017
Hillary retweeted the video, writing, "I burst out laughing when I saw this video this morning. Hope it brightens your day." You know what, girl? It really did.
I burst out laughing when I saw this video this morning. Hope it brightens your day. https://t.co/CEcdoaQUuC
- Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) May 19, 2017
10 Celebrity Couples Who Broke Up Before Getting Married
Hey, sometimes you need a break! While it may not be the most common tactic, many famous long-term relationships have proven to be made stronger after a split - even royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton took a break from their relationship before getting married in the biggest, most lavish ceremony of our time. They'll likely tell you that there's nothing wrong with taking a timeout from your relationship to figure things out, get your priorities straight, and be reminded of just how much you love someone. Keep reading to see the high-profile pairs who broke up before ultimately tying the knot.
You Won't Believe Amazon's Bestselling Sleeping Bags All Weigh 3 Pounds or Less
Hiking up a giant hill on vacation while wearing camping gear is a total vibe killer. It's happened to the best of us. Packing light when you want all the luxuries of home isn't always easy, especially when it comes to camping. Save the weight for your other items and invest in lightweight sleeping gear. We found sleeping bags to solve all your problems and some. Up ahead, the best rated options on Amazon.
20 Ways to Chill Out and Help Stop Stress
It's been proven that exercise eases anxiety and depression, but some days require a little something extra. Here are some healthy habits that will help you keep calm and carry on during those super stressful days.
Hillary Clinton Actually Practiced Avoiding an "Unwanted Trump Hug" - and the Video Is Gold
Image Source: Getty / Win McNamee
Hillary Clinton may not have won the White House, but at least she didn't get caught in the crossfire of Donald Trump's creepy brand of physical contact. On Friday, Hillary's longtime aide Philippe Reines shared a hilarious (albeit grainy) video showing the two prepping for a debate back in September 2016; while walking out and waving to the imaginary crowd, Philippe goes in for a hug while Hillary artfully dodges it, instead offering a high five. He captioned the clip, "Not easy to avoid the unwanted Trump hug, sometimes it even takes practice . . ." and called it a "favorite moment" from their debate preps last year.
Not easy to avoid the unwanted Trump hug, sometimes it even takes practice...
A favorite moment from debate prep (9/24/16): http://pic.twitter.com/JAAHaqKFoa- Philippe Reines (@PhilippeReines) May 19, 2017
Hillary retweeted the video, writing, "I burst out laughing when I saw this video this morning. Hope it brightens your day." You know what, girl? It really did.
I burst out laughing when I saw this video this morning. Hope it brightens your day. https://t.co/CEcdoaQUuC
- Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) May 19, 2017
What to Eat When a Headache Hits
When dealing with an aching head, it's become so easy to pop some pills. If you're trying to steer clear of pain relievers, some of the best help can come from the produce aisle.
- Potato: After a night out, you may think that a plate of greasy fries is the way to go; forget the french fries and go for a baked potato instead. Foods high in potassium have proven to help alleviate bad headaches, and a baked potato with its skin offers up to a whopping 600 mg.
- Bananas: The dynamic duo of potassium and magnesium come to the rescue in one tasty piece of fruit. Magnesium's calming effects are a huge help when trying to alleviate an achy head.
- Watermelon: A lot of the time when dealing with a headache, chances are you may be dehydrated. A water-rich fruit like watermelon can give you a huge boost and also serves as a solid source of potassium and magnesium!
- Pineapple: Fresh pineapple can also help soothe your headache woes. The natural enzyme bromelain has been linked for centuries as a form of natural pain relief. It also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that can help get your head right as well.
- Cucumber: In the same vein as watermelon, cucumber can help cut dehydration out of the picture. Composed of 95 percent water, the highly hydrating cucumber is a perfect option for a fresh, headache-fighting snack.
We're Getting a Wonder Woman Sequel, Praise the Gods
To say Wonder Woman is crushing the box office right now would be an understatement. Words like "obliterating" or "demolishing" are more apt, given the film's record-setting $103.1 million domestic opening and its badass, empowering message. Everyone from Lupita Nyong'o to Chris Hemsworth has been raving about director Patty Jenkins and star Gal Gadot, and now it seems the Hollywood gods have answered all of our prayers: Wonder Woman is getting a sequel! Barely any details have been released just yet, but thanks to The Hollywood Reporter's revelation that Gadot is officially contracted for a second film, it's definitely in the works. Here's what we know so far:
The Story
Wonder Woman begins on Diana Prince's home island of Themyscira and later moves to a Europe torn apart by World War I. For the sequel, Jenkins suggested bringing the superhero across the pond. "The story will take place in the U.S., which I think is right," the director told Entertainment Weekly in a recent interview. "She's Wonder Woman. She's got to come to America. It's time." She also told THR that the sequel will be in modern times, which suggests it'll happen sometime after the events of Justice League.
The Cast
Although we initially assumed Chris Pine wouldn't return as Steve Trevor given how his story ends, Jenkins seems to think otherwise. "All I can say is it was a dilemma," she told Fandango. "It's something I hope we don't talk about in the public [because] I want people to see, but it's very hard to know which characters will be in the next movie because of the time period, so it's a big question." Pine himself further fueled speculation in the same interview. "The movie's gotta come out, and then we'll see," he said before joking, "What about Wonder Man?"
Regardless, leading lady Gadot will definitely be back to kick some ass. As far as other characters are concerned, making the story set in present day opens up the possibility of a few cameos from other DC characters (even if Wonder Woman only bothers with a single, subtle Justice League Easter egg).
The Director
Unlike Gadot, Jenkins is not contractually obligated to return for the second installment of Wonder Woman since Warner Bros. executives only enlisted her for the one film. According to THR, sources revealed "the studio intends to begin negotiations with Jenkins shortly." Hopefully the rumors are true, because we can't imagine a better person for the job.
The Release Date
Settle in, you guys, because this is going to be a hell of a long wait. Before Warner Bros. can begin working on a sequel for Diana, it has to release Justice League (part one debuts on Nov. 17, 2017, part two on June 14, 2019), as well as finish The Flash and Aquaman (due out March 16, 2018, and Dec. 21, 2018, respectively). If all goes according to plan, the Wonder Woman sequel would likely hit theaters in 2019 (maybe to compete with Captain Marvel?) or possibly even 2020.
We're Getting a Wonder Woman Sequel, Praise the Gods
To say Wonder Woman is crushing the box office right now would be an understatement. Words like "obliterating" or "demolishing" are more apt, given the film's record-setting $103.1 million domestic opening and its badass, empowering message. Everyone from Lupita Nyong'o to Chris Hemsworth has been raving about director Patty Jenkins and star Gal Gadot, and now it seems the Hollywood gods have answered all of our prayers: Wonder Woman is getting a sequel! Barely any details have been released just yet, but thanks to The Hollywood Reporter's revelation that Gadot is officially contracted for a second film, it's definitely in the works. Here's what we know so far:
The Story
Wonder Woman begins on Diana Prince's home island of Themyscira and later moves to a Europe torn apart by World War I. For the sequel, Jenkins suggested bringing the superhero across the pond. "The story will take place in the U.S., which I think is right," the director told Entertainment Weekly in a recent interview. "She's Wonder Woman. She's got to come to America. It's time." She also told THR that the sequel will be in modern times, which suggests it'll happen sometime after the events of Justice League.
The Cast
Although we initially assumed Chris Pine wouldn't return as Steve Trevor given how his story ends, Jenkins seems to think otherwise. "All I can say is it was a dilemma," she told Fandango. "It's something I hope we don't talk about in the public [because] I want people to see, but it's very hard to know which characters will be in the next movie because of the time period, so it's a big question." Pine himself further fueled speculation in the same interview. "The movie's gotta come out, and then we'll see," he said before joking, "What about Wonder Man?"
Regardless, leading lady Gadot will definitely be back to kick some ass. As far as other characters are concerned, making the story set in present day opens up the possibility of a few cameos from other DC characters (even if Wonder Woman only bothers with a single, subtle Justice League Easter egg).
The Director
Unlike Gadot, Jenkins is not contractually obligated to return for the second installment of Wonder Woman since Warner Bros. executives only enlisted her for the one film. According to THR, sources revealed "the studio intends to begin negotiations with Jenkins shortly." Hopefully the rumors are true, because we can't imagine a better person for the job.
The Release Date
Settle in, you guys, because this is going to be a hell of a long wait. Before Warner Bros. can begin working on a sequel for Diana, it has to release Justice League (part one debuts on Nov. 17, 2017, part two on June 14, 2019), as well as finish The Flash and Aquaman (due out March 16, 2018, and Dec. 21, 2018, respectively). If all goes according to plan, the Wonder Woman sequel would likely hit theaters in 2019 (maybe to compete with Captain Marvel?) or possibly even 2020.
5 Umami-Rich Ingredients to Add to Scrambled Eggs
Why add salt to scrambled eggs when there are dozens of umami-rich ingredients awaiting you to try? Chefs, famous bloggers, and even our readers have introduced us to these unconventional methods of seasoning eggs to make them ultra savory. Try each out to keep your scrambled egg breakfasts from becoming boring.
- Worcestershire sauce: A few dashes offer a slightly tangy, smoky, umami-rich flavor. Just be prepared for the eggs to turn a darker hue.
- Bacon grease: Pork is naturally high in umami, and Paula Deen preaches about scrambling eggs in an equal mix of bacon grease and butter.
- Mushrooms: Stir-fry mushrooms before scrambling in the eggs for a hit of earthiness.
- Parmesan cheese: Most people think to top scrambled eggs with cheddar cheese, but parm has the most concentrated salty, savory taste.
- Soy sauce: Blogger Joy the Baker swears by adding a little bit of soy sauce to eggs before scrambling them. Like Worcestershire sauce, the color of the eggs will change, but the blast of umami is worth it.
Grab Some Headphones and Jam Out to Baby Driver's Phenomenal Soundtrack
If a self-help group for people who can't stop listening to the Baby Driver soundtrack existed, I'd be at every meeting. As you probably know from watching the action flick's amazing trailer, the movie starring Ansel Elgort as a getaway driver named Baby, includes some pretty incredible song choices. From classic hits like Barry White's "Never Gonna Give You Up" and Simon & Garfunkel's "Baby Driver" (duh), to a bass-pounding new track from Danger Mouse, Run the Jewels, and Big Boi, this soundtrack has pretty much everything. The movie doesn't hit theaters until June 28, so in the meantime feel free to keep the songs on repeat (and scroll all the way down to see our Spotify playlist!).
Do Yourself a Favor and Find Trader Joe's Campfire S'mores Bar ASAP!
I don't mean to be dramatic, but I love s'mores more than I love most human beings. And I just might love Trader Joe's new Campfire S'mores Bar ($3) more than I love Trader Joe's Milk Chocolate Smashing S'mores, which is saying a lot. One of the best new Trader Joe's products of 2017 by a landslide, this summertime snack is enough to make s'mores-lovers cry tears of joy. There's no need to wait around for a bonfire when you can rely on this Trader Joe's gem to satisfy your cravings instead.
It's as if you laid out a ton of marshmallows and graham cracker pieces and poured melted milk chocolate all over, drenching every nook and cranny, and then crumbled even more marshmallows and grahams on top. Only you didn't have to do the work because Trader Joe's did it for you. Each bite into the silky, salted chocolate reveals gooey marshmallows (which happen to be Trader Joe's vegan marshmallows!) and exceptionally crunchy graham cracker nuggets, so you're never dissatisfied with the ratio. Though the package might appear big, the size is actually quite small - not that that's a bad thing, because we can barely stop ourselves from eating the whole thing as it is.
Wait! There Will Be "At Least" TWO Weddings on the Pretty Little Liars Series Finale
The series finale of Pretty Little Liars is hurtling toward us, and as we wait for answers, worry about who might die, and who A.D. is, one thing we do know is that someone is getting married - but now we know that more than one (and maybe more than that!) couple will be getting married. Back in September, series creator I. Marlene King gave away the wedding tidbit herself on Twitter, so we knew one wedding was happening, but this week at ATX, she revealed that there will actually be multiple weddings.
In the show's panel at ATX, King was asked what she could reveal about the finale that she hadn't yet, and she confirmed that "I can promise you there will be two more weddings on the show," over the course of the final three episodes. But, there could be even more than that! I chatted with King in an interview with several other reporters on the same day, where she also talked about multiple weddings, and she phrased it this way: "there are two weddings at least, at least, this season."
Hear that? At least two. And the title is, fittingly, "Till Death Do Us Part." So who will tie the knot? Of course, Aria and Ezra have been planning their wedding, so they're one, while Hanna and Caleb just got engaged, so they're probably two, but who else? It could be Emily and Alison, and maybe Spencer is also getting her happy ending, because it seems like we're being set up to get an actually tidy ending.
We'll find out when the series finale airs on June 27.
5 Umami-Rich Ingredients to Add to Scrambled Eggs
Why add salt to scrambled eggs when there are dozens of umami-rich ingredients awaiting you to try? Chefs, famous bloggers, and even our readers have introduced us to these unconventional methods of seasoning eggs to make them ultra savory. Try each out to keep your scrambled egg breakfasts from becoming boring.
- Worcestershire sauce: A few dashes offer a slightly tangy, smoky, umami-rich flavor. Just be prepared for the eggs to turn a darker hue.
- Bacon grease: Pork is naturally high in umami, and Paula Deen preaches about scrambling eggs in an equal mix of bacon grease and butter.
- Mushrooms: Stir-fry mushrooms before scrambling in the eggs for a hit of earthiness.
- Parmesan cheese: Most people think to top scrambled eggs with cheddar cheese, but parm has the most concentrated salty, savory taste.
- Soy sauce: Blogger Joy the Baker swears by adding a little bit of soy sauce to eggs before scrambling them. Like Worcestershire sauce, the color of the eggs will change, but the blast of umami is worth it.
Dive Into the Pool With These 6 Cool Waterproof Cameras
It's always hard to capture memories at the pool or by the beach because we're all worried about damaging our devices. Fortunately, there are some waterproof options that are perfect for your H20-filled adventures. They aren't just splash-proof, you can even take photos underwater - let's be honest, that will make a strong Instagram post. Take a look at our favorite options.
Do Yourself a Favor and Find Trader Joe's Campfire S'mores Bar ASAP!
I don't mean to be dramatic, but I love s'mores more than I love most human beings. And I just might love Trader Joe's new Campfire S'mores Bar ($3) more than I love Trader Joe's Milk Chocolate Smashing S'mores, which is saying a lot. One of the best new Trader Joe's products of 2017 by a landslide, this summertime snack is enough to make s'mores-lovers cry tears of joy. There's no need to wait around for a bonfire when you can rely on this Trader Joe's gem to satisfy your cravings instead.
It's as if you laid out a ton of marshmallows and graham cracker pieces and poured melted milk chocolate all over, drenching every nook and cranny, and then crumbled even more marshmallows and grahams on top. Only you didn't have to do the work because Trader Joe's did it for you. Each bite into the silky, salted chocolate reveals gooey marshmallows (which happen to be Trader Joe's vegan marshmallows!) and exceptionally crunchy graham cracker nuggets, so you're never dissatisfied with the ratio. Though the package might appear big, the size is actually quite small - not that that's a bad thing, because we can barely stop ourselves from eating the whole thing as it is.
Wait! There Will Be "At Least" TWO Weddings on the Pretty Little Liars Series Finale
The series finale of Pretty Little Liars is hurtling toward us, and as we wait for answers, worry about who might die, and who A.D. is, one thing we do know is that someone is getting married - but now we know that more than one (and maybe more than that!) couple will be getting married. Back in September, series creator I. Marlene King gave away the wedding tidbit herself on Twitter, so we knew one wedding was happening, but this week at ATX, she revealed that there will actually be multiple weddings.
In the show's panel at ATX, King was asked what she could reveal about the finale that she hadn't yet, and she confirmed that "I can promise you there will be two more weddings on the show," over the course of the final three episodes. But, there could be even more than that! I chatted with King in an interview with several other reporters on the same day, where she also talked about multiple weddings, and she phrased it this way: "there are two weddings at least, at least, this season."
Hear that? At least two. And the title is, fittingly, "Till Death Do Us Part." So who will tie the knot? Of course, Aria and Ezra have been planning their wedding, so they're one, while Hanna and Caleb just got engaged, so they're probably two, but who else? It could be Emily and Alison, and maybe Spencer is also getting her happy ending, because it seems like we're being set up to get an actually tidy ending.
We'll find out when the series finale airs on June 27.
This Spectacular 4-Night Train Trip Across Canada Only Costs $397!
We're seeing a resurgence in train travel, and it's easy to understand why. It's an amazing way to take in the views of the place you're exploring. Sure, we've all seen the viral post about traveling across America by train for $213, but there's a new travel opportunity that's catching our eye.
Via Rail Canada offers a four-night, three-day trip on a train called the Canadian. The journey from Toronto to Vancouver, British Columbia, costs only $397, which is a great deal for the amount of time you get on the train. Keep in mind that the trip may fluctuate in price as it grows in popularity. The scenic route shows you all the beauty the country has to offer. "Leave the city centre behind and glide through gentle prairie fields, rugged lake country and picturesque towns to the snowy peaks of the majestic Rockies," Via Rail states on its site.
The stops on your journey include Sudbury Junction, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Kamloops, and Jasper. Via Rail says it offers an amazing dining experience and huge picture windows while on your ride. Take a look at the video that will give you a taste of what this Canadian adventure is like!
A Casual Playlist of Our Favorite LGBTQ+ Anthems
In 2017, the music industry has come a long way when it comes to lauding LGBTQ musicians. But let's not forget the long history of queer artists, allies, and anthems that have brought us here. In honor of Pride Month, we thought we'd spotlight some of the most iconic LGBTQ-adjacent songs over the decades. Some are from LGBTQ-identifying artists, while others are from music icons that have embraced queer fans. And the rest are songs that have become a dance floor rallying cry of sorts in the LGBTQ+ community. From Robyn's "Dancing on My Own" all the way back to Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive," it's time to reminisce . . . and to dance.
Ryan Lochte Welcomes His First Child
Ryan Lochte is officially a dad. The Olympic medalist and his fiancée, Kayla Rae Reid, welcomed a baby boy on Thursday, Us Weekly confirms. The couple, who got engaged in October, first announced that they were expecting in December by posting a photo of Ryan kissing Kayla's baby bump underwater. The newborn is the first child for both. Congrats to the couple.
Selena Gomez's Edgy Jumper Is Something We Could See Cher Horowitz Wear
Selena Gomez continued to show off her ever-changing sense of style around New York City, attending The Weeknd's concert in Brooklyn in a look straight from the '90s. The "Bad Liar" singer wore a Hesperios red tee with a white collar under a fake leather miniskirt jumper with Gucci sneakers.
According to her makeup artist Hung Vanngo, Selena only gave her team 15 minutes to get her ready for her boyfriend's show, yet managed to pull together a serious cat eye and edgy outfit without a problem. After the show, Selena changed into a way sexier and a little less comfortable outfit, slipping into a sheer Alexandre Vauthier skin-tight dress and Jimmy Choo heels. Scroll ahead to check out Selena's concert look and find a few pieces that'll allow you to copy it by this weekend.
24 Times Jason Momoa Made Other People Look Like Tiny Little Ants
We don't know about you, but we sometimes repeat the three things we always know to be true just to give our lives some consistency: Jason Momoa is sexy; Jason Momoa is adorable; Jason Momoa is f*cking huge. Not only is the actor, who has been married to wife Lisa Bonet since 2007, extremely tall (6'4"), but he also has huge muscles. Whether he's out on a red carpet or goofing around with his pals on Instagram, he's always at least a full head above everyone else. Don't believe us? Keep reading to see all the times he turned other people into pocket puppies.
10 Jaw-Dropping Waterfalls in the United States
Is there anything more beautiful than a mighty waterfall diving off a lofty forest cliff? We don't think so. If you find waterfalls enchanting, check out the 10 unique ones ahead, which are located in various regions of the United States. Don't forget to pack a water-resistant camera - you may get a little wet trying to capture the grandeur of these natural wonders.
22,000 Pounds of Beef Have Been Recalled Due to Possible E. Coli Contamination
Creation Gardens Inc. has issued an official recall on "approximately 22,832 pounds" of its ground beef products following potential E. coli contamination. Earlier this week, the Kentucky-based food distributor informed the US Department of Agriculture of positive test results for E. coli in its raw ground beef and beef primal cut products (like sirloin and rib-eye). The beef products from the company that are potentially affected were produced on May 31, June 1, and June 2, 2017.
If you have any ground beef or primal cut products with an establishment number of "EST. 7914" and you live in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Tennessee, the US Department of Agriculture strongly suggests it would be in your best interest to toss it out, or return it to your original place of purchase. For more information, the Department of Agriculture also offers a full and comprehensive list of beef products recalled by Creation Gardens Inc. on its website.
"Social Jet Lag" Happens Every Week - and It Could Cost You Your Health
Did you know that you can get jet lag not just from a trip to Belgium, but even from simply staying up till 3 a.m. eating fries? "Social jet lag," the result of disrupting your normal weekday sleep routine by staying up late and sleeping in on weekends, shows up as the same fatigue and moodiness that you experience when traveling to a different time zone. In addition to being physically and mentally tiring, new research suggests it could have dangerous lasting effects, leading to a host of major health problems.
How does social jet lag happen?
Social jet lag occurs when you have a certain sleep pattern on workdays, only to throw it all out of whack by sleeping late on your days off, all of which messes with your circadian rhythm like crazy. Your body gets used to one kind of sleep-wake pattern, only to have that pattern drastically disrupted. Hence, that hit-by-a-truck feeling that strikes on Monday morning when the alarm goes off at 7 a.m. and your body has to recalibrate all over again.
The term social jet lag was initially coined in 2006 by researchers studying the ways in which social schedules (including work and school schedules that require us to rise at certain times) mess with our individual natural rhythms. This study argued that it's actually not our weekend proclivities that need adjusting, rather that late sleepers should try to arrange their work schedules to accommodate their late-rising biological needs. People who are naturally late sleepers go into a "sleep debt" when they awaken early for work, and then they try to compensate (or repay the debt) on days off by sleeping in way later than usual.
Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, oh my . . .
This yo-yo-ing of sleep schedules may seem harmless because it's "only on the weekends," but the long-term effects can be grim. Some studies have drawn connections between social jet lag and obesity, while others have suggested that people with a "misalignment of sleep timing" are at greater risk for diabetes.
The most recent research, published as an abstract supplement in the academic journal Sleep, concluded that "social jet lag is associated with poorer health, heart disease, worse mood, and increased sleepiness and fatigue." So, those who are already at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and even depression are not doing themselves any favors with irregular sleep schedules.
Consistency is key
In an ideal world, you'd fall asleep and awaken with your body's natural rhythms. But for now, the best bet is to maintain a consistent sleep cycle - one that isn't dramatically altered every five days and includes at least seven hours of sleep per night.
22,000 Pounds of Beef Have Been Recalled Due to Possible E. Coli Contamination
Creation Gardens Inc. has issued an official recall on "approximately 22,832 pounds" of its ground beef products following potential E. coli contamination. Earlier this week, the Kentucky-based food distributor informed the US Department of Agriculture of positive test results for E. coli in its raw ground beef and beef primal cut products (like sirloin and rib-eye). The beef products from the company that are potentially affected were produced on May 31, June 1, and June 2, 2017.
If you have any ground beef or primal cut products with an establishment number of "EST. 7914" and you live in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Tennessee, the US Department of Agriculture strongly suggests it would be in your best interest to toss it out, or return it to your original place of purchase. For more information, the Department of Agriculture also offers a full and comprehensive list of beef products recalled by Creation Gardens Inc. on its website.
The Latest Trend in Healthy Drinks Aids in Digestion and May Even Lower Blood Sugar
Allow me to take some attention off apple cider vinegar for a moment and shed light on another drink that's been popping in conversations and is even included in some of our favorite cold-pressed juice blends: aloe vera.
As a topical agent, aloe vera can alleviate general discomfort from a bad sunburn (and has also shown some promise as a treatment for psoriasis), but imbibing this plant is a whole different story. Researchers believe that the complex carbohydrates found in the juice are where this plant's powers truly reside - it also contains a number of digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and a natural form of aspirin. With all this said, there are some promised benefits - with some having more merit than others - so get the facts and drink with care.
Digestion: Historically, aloe vera has been used as an effective natural laxative, since the juice of the plant encourages the bowels to move and helps with elimination. After sipping the juice, it takes about 10 hours for aloe to get things going. Be careful about relying on this as a long-term cure, since using aloe regularly can affect the lining of the intestines.
Blood sugar: Early research suggests that aloe vera juice can help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more thorough testing is needed to determine how beneficial aloe is in the situation, since studies have had conflicting results.
Cholesterol: Although the data is considered insufficient to support this claim, there is a small amount of evidence that suggests taking aloe orally can lower cholesterol. Once again, more studies are needed to see if aloe fulfills this promise!
You should be forewarned, aloe vera juice has a strong, pungent taste. If you can't cope with taking it straight, blend it in a smoothie or juice. Try this fruity strawberry, banana, and aloe vera smoothie or our avocado, spinach, and aloe smoothie, which is perfect for a day of detox. The recommended serving size for aloe one tablespoon up to two times a day.
- Additional reporting by Michele Foley
How a Mom Used Her Earrings to Prove That She Was Invisible After Giving Birth
Like many new moms, Anastasia Aligiannis noticed that things changed after giving birth to her baby boy. She felt like she had become completely invisible and to prove her point, she took out one of her earrings.
It took seven months before anyone noticed that she was only wearing one earring, despite being surrounded by family and friends. "All those social interactions, and no one ever looked me square in the face and noticed," she shared on Facebook. "It sort of cemented to me that as a very busy mom of then two children under two who 'just stayed at home' or 'didn't work.' I had almost become invisible not just to society, but to my family and friends, and really maybe even to myself."
Anastasia explained that even conversations over the phone followed a similar pattern: people asking how her children and husband are but never following up with asking about her. "I guess people figured if the people it was my responsibility to care for were OK, then I must be," she wrote.
Although many new moms can relate and may even smile in recognition, Anastasia made it clear that the point of her post wasn't to be funny but instead to send a message. "If today you are feeling overwhelmed, invisible or like you don't matter, you do. You are so important and are probably the cog that keeps everything running smoothly," she wrote. "Keep up the good work, and if no one else says it to you this week, know that you are invaluable in the work you do and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed."
If You Can't Agree on These Things, You Shouldn't Get Married
For a happy and lasting marriage, you need to first make sure you're not heading to the altar with red flags. By not having an honest, internal conversation with yourself and not addressing uncomfortable topics you'd want to know about your future spouse, you're only setting yourself up for failure down the road. To avoid any surprises and major bumps in your marriage, make it a priority to discuss both of your expectations and hopes as a couple and get on the same page. Marriage might not be the best plan for you two if you can't agree on these nine things.
1. Whether or not you want kids.
Disagreeing on this subject isn't necessarily make or break, but if having children is extremely important to one partner and not the other, it could become a larger issue. Especially with biological clocks ticking, this conversation unfortunately has a shelf life and should be discussed early on. If kids are in no way in your future plans, communicate that very clearly.
2. Your future goals together.
Do you want to retire early and travel the world with one another, or is your dream to become the ultimate power couple and focus on your careers for as long as possible? Have a chat about what your expectations are for each other (like being parents). Remember, it's all negotiable, too. Maybe you can start your bucket list early together and hold off on kids until when you're both ready.
3. Family matters.
In an ideal world, everybody would have in-laws they can love and tolerate, but that's just not the case unfortunately. Any hostility between you (or your SO) and an opposite friend or family member should be squashed before taking the next step. Your relationship will inevitably be affected by these dynamics when they feel like they have to choose between you and blood. If you all can't get along now, it's not going to become any easier later.
4. Finances.
Separate or joint accounts, accumulated debt, a prenup, etc. are all important things you should discuss with your significant other. Money can put a huge strain on relationships, and it's often the reason why couples have problems down the line.
5. Division of labor.
Both of your opinions on shared household responsibilities will most likely reveal themselves early on in the relationship. But just to be clear, make sure their expectations don't change when your relationship title does. Some people still have very traditional views on what a husband or wife, for example, should be taking care of. Figure out how you two want to split those chores and errands, and be honest about what you're willing or not willing to take on.
6. Making personal decisions.
What's considered off limits and what should always be a joint discussion? Do you want total control or do you not mind when your partner shares their very strong opinions? Keep in mind that marriage usually comes with having to make important decisions as a unit, so communicate clearly what you do or don't mind them having a say in.
7. Religious expectations.
If you both come from different religious backgrounds, ask if he or she expects you to convert after marrying. Be vocal about how you feel about holidays and religious obligations, such as not wanting to attend church weekly. And if you two plan to have children, have a conversation about what faith you'd like to raise them in.
8. Monogamy.
This one may be obvious since marriage typically implies monogamy, but some people might be willing to explore the idea of an open relationship. Make it clear that you'd like to discuss the possibility or shut it down completely early on. Or if you or your partner can't imagine committing to one person for the rest of your lives, it's an obvious sign that marriage shouldn't even be in the talks.
9. The little things.
A good indication that someone is truly right for you is if they make your relationship seem effortless. You can expect to have a quarrel here and there, but if you bicker about almost everything, it might not work out years later. Not being able to agree on even the most trivial matters is not sustainable for a lasting marriage. You will both eventually tire of arguing and either reach your limits or grow apart silently. The best question to ask yourself: Does our love feel easy?
If it seems like you and your partner passed the test, congratulations! You've both got yourselves a keeper.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Better Salad
Whether you're cutting back on carbs, looking to lose weight, or trying to incorporate more fresh foods into your life, salads are essential. But there's nothing worse than putting together a beautiful salad for lunch or dinner and still wanting more at the end of your meal. If you can relate, check out how to build the best salad ahead!
24 Times Jason Momoa Made Other People Look Like Tiny Little Ants
We don't know about you, but we sometimes repeat the three things we always know to be true just to give our lives some consistency: Jason Momoa is sexy; Jason Momoa is adorable; Jason Momoa is f*cking huge. Not only is the actor, who has been married to wife Lisa Bonet since 2007, extremely tall (6'4"), but he also has huge muscles. Whether he's out on a red carpet or goofing around with his pals on Instagram, he's always at least a full head above everyone else. Don't believe us? Keep reading to see all the times he turned other people into pocket puppies.
"Social Jet Lag" Happens Every Week - and It Could Cost You Your Health
Did you know that you can get jet lag not just from a trip to Belgium, but even from simply staying up till 3 a.m. eating fries? "Social jet lag," the result of disrupting your normal weekday sleep routine by staying up late and sleeping in on weekends, shows up as the same fatigue and moodiness that you experience when traveling to a different time zone. In addition to being physically and mentally tiring, new research suggests it could have dangerous lasting effects, leading to a host of major health problems.
How does social jet lag happen?
Social jet lag occurs when you have a certain sleep pattern on workdays, only to throw it all out of whack by sleeping late on your days off, all of which messes with your circadian rhythm like crazy. Your body gets used to one kind of sleep-wake pattern, only to have that pattern drastically disrupted. Hence, that hit-by-a-truck feeling that strikes on Monday morning when the alarm goes off at 7 a.m. and your body has to recalibrate all over again.
The term social jet lag was initially coined in 2006 by researchers studying the ways in which social schedules (including work and school schedules that require us to rise at certain times) mess with our individual natural rhythms. This study argued that it's actually not our weekend proclivities that need adjusting, rather that late sleepers should try to arrange their work schedules to accommodate their late-rising biological needs. People who are naturally late sleepers go into a "sleep debt" when they awaken early for work, and then they try to compensate (or repay the debt) on days off by sleeping in way later than usual.
Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, oh my . . .
This yo-yo-ing of sleep schedules may seem harmless because it's "only on the weekends," but the long-term effects can be grim. Some studies have drawn connections between social jet lag and obesity, while others have suggested that people with a "misalignment of sleep timing" are at greater risk for diabetes.
The most recent research, published as an abstract supplement in the academic journal Sleep, concluded that "social jet lag is associated with poorer health, heart disease, worse mood, and increased sleepiness and fatigue." So, those who are already at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and even depression are not doing themselves any favors with irregular sleep schedules.
Consistency is key
In an ideal world, you'd fall asleep and awaken with your body's natural rhythms. But for now, the best bet is to maintain a consistent sleep cycle - one that isn't dramatically altered every five days and includes at least seven hours of sleep per night.
The Latest Trend in Healthy Drinks Aids in Digestion and May Even Lower Blood Sugar
Allow me to take some attention off apple cider vinegar for a moment and shed light on another drink that's been popping in conversations and is even included in some of our favorite cold-pressed juice blends: aloe vera.
As a topical agent, aloe vera can alleviate general discomfort from a bad sunburn (and has also shown some promise as a treatment for psoriasis), but imbibing this plant is a whole different story. Researchers believe that the complex carbohydrates found in the juice are where this plant's powers truly reside - it also contains a number of digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and a natural form of aspirin. With all this said, there are some promised benefits - with some having more merit than others - so get the facts and drink with care.
Digestion: Historically, aloe vera has been used as an effective natural laxative, since the juice of the plant encourages the bowels to move and helps with elimination. After sipping the juice, it takes about 10 hours for aloe to get things going. Be careful about relying on this as a long-term cure, since using aloe regularly can affect the lining of the intestines.
Blood sugar: Early research suggests that aloe vera juice can help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more thorough testing is needed to determine how beneficial aloe is in the situation, since studies have had conflicting results.
Cholesterol: Although the data is considered insufficient to support this claim, there is a small amount of evidence that suggests taking aloe orally can lower cholesterol. Once again, more studies are needed to see if aloe fulfills this promise!
You should be forewarned, aloe vera juice has a strong, pungent taste. If you can't cope with taking it straight, blend it in a smoothie or juice. Try this fruity strawberry, banana, and aloe vera smoothie or our avocado, spinach, and aloe smoothie, which is perfect for a day of detox. The recommended serving size for aloe one tablespoon up to two times a day.
- Additional reporting by Michele Foley
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Better Salad
Whether you're cutting back on carbs, looking to lose weight, or trying to incorporate more fresh foods into your life, salads are essential. But there's nothing worse than putting together a beautiful salad for lunch or dinner and still wanting more at the end of your meal. If you can relate, check out how to build the best salad ahead!
jeudi 8 juin 2017
Why I (and Everybody Else) Should Learn to Take a Compliment
I recently boarded a plane where I had a 60-second encounter I can't get out of my mind. After a few days in Southern California, I wasn't quite ready to transition back to my standard boots, scarf, and jeans that cool San Francisco temperatures require year round. I had a killer tan, wore a new short t-shirt dress, and rocked my favorite pair of camel wedges. I have to tell you: I was feeling pretty good.
As I stood in line on a silent jet bridge, the beautiful older woman with a long gray ponytail right behind me gave me a compliment I wasn't anticipating. "I have to ask: how do you work out your legs? They are gorgeous. So lean and strong." At first, I didn't flinch and felt the rush of her praise. I told her about the combination of yoga and SoulCycle I swear by and thanked her for the kind words. But 30 seconds later something strange happened. I felt a need to follow up with the following words: "You know, I think it's really just the combination of the dress and shoes. Wearing wedges helps." Her face dropped as she replied, "You don't have to do that."
Immediately, I regretted what I had said. Why didn't I just take this compliment? As I tried to figure out what had happened, this skit from Inside Amy Schumer played in my mind.
I really work hard to stay in shape, and I love my strong legs. There was no need to follow up an authentic compliment with any sort of half-hearted disclaimer, so what was so hard about receiving these words? This woman was being genuine, but some part of me felt I had to shrink after this encounter. A bunch of other people had heard our interaction, and I was consumed by the fear that I sounded self-centered.
There's a quote from Marianne Williamson I've heard at many lectures and yoga classes over the years that perfectly sums up my thoughts on what happened: "We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? . . . Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. . . . And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." These are words I do my best to live by every day, but it can be especially trying when it comes to my appearance. I have curves, and I'm muscular. My thighs touch, and I'm shaped like a "real" woman. It's been a long time coming, but I'm getting more comfortable with myself every day. Now is a more important time than ever for me to really hear these compliments. These were not empty words.
Playing small and being timid about my beauty or strength are not doing anyone any favors - especially me. Next time, I'll just take the compliment, respond with kindness and a smile, and use my long, lean, and powerful legs to walk to my seat with a little extra swagger.
Why I (and Everybody Else) Should Learn to Take a Compliment
I recently boarded a plane where I had a 60-second encounter I can't get out of my mind. After a few days in Southern California, I wasn't quite ready to transition back to my standard boots, scarf, and jeans that cool San Francisco temperatures require year round. I had a killer tan, wore a new short t-shirt dress, and rocked my favorite pair of camel wedges. I have to tell you: I was feeling pretty good.
As I stood in line on a silent jet bridge, the beautiful older woman with a long gray ponytail right behind me gave me a compliment I wasn't anticipating. "I have to ask: how do you work out your legs? They are gorgeous. So lean and strong." At first, I didn't flinch and felt the rush of her praise. I told her about the combination of yoga and SoulCycle I swear by and thanked her for the kind words. But 30 seconds later something strange happened. I felt a need to follow up with the following words: "You know, I think it's really just the combination of the dress and shoes. Wearing wedges helps." Her face dropped as she replied, "You don't have to do that."
Immediately, I regretted what I had said. Why didn't I just take this compliment? As I tried to figure out what had happened, this skit from Inside Amy Schumer played in my mind.
I really work hard to stay in shape, and I love my strong legs. There was no need to follow up an authentic compliment with any sort of half-hearted disclaimer, so what was so hard about receiving these words? This woman was being genuine, but some part of me felt I had to shrink after this encounter. A bunch of other people had heard our interaction, and I was consumed by the fear that I sounded self-centered.
There's a quote from Marianne Williamson I've heard at many lectures and yoga classes over the years that perfectly sums up my thoughts on what happened: "We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? . . . Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. . . . And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." These are words I do my best to live by every day, but it can be especially trying when it comes to my appearance. I have curves, and I'm muscular. My thighs touch, and I'm shaped like a "real" woman. It's been a long time coming, but I'm getting more comfortable with myself every day. Now is a more important time than ever for me to really hear these compliments. These were not empty words.
Playing small and being timid about my beauty or strength are not doing anyone any favors - especially me. Next time, I'll just take the compliment, respond with kindness and a smile, and use my long, lean, and powerful legs to walk to my seat with a little extra swagger.
The Surprising Thing That Ansel Elgort Steals From Every Film Set
When I walked into the press junket conference room to sit down with Ansel Elgort and Baby Driver director Edgar Wright, the young actor complimented my jacket. Then he praised my coworker's coat. He even threw in some mutual flattery, adding, "You've both got good jacket game." My takeaway from this is, of course, that Ansel Elgort f*cking loves jackets. And with such a jacket-heavy introduction, I should have known that things would eventually come full circle.
We chatted for a while about Baby Driver, which hits theaters June 28 and at press time boasts an unprecedented 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The stylized action movie - which offers a "buy-it-on-vinyl good" soundtrack and also stars talents like Kevin Spacey, Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx, and Lily James - is nothing short of a perfect Summer film. During the interview, it's clear that Wright and Elgort are immensely proud of the project, and rightfully so. As they shared memories about the movie, I wondered about any mementos that they may have pocketed from the set.
"They didn't want me to take it, but I took it."
I'd attended a screening of the film the night before our interview, and during the Q&A session, Elgort noted that he kept one of the Subaru WRXs used while filming some of the stunt-driving scenes, admitting that he "caught the bug" and now loves drifting. (And after watching the film, I can see why - it'll make you want to swerve into every parking garage at 90 miles per hour!) But since a car isn't the sort of nostalgic prop memory that most actors keep, I asked Elgort if there was anything else he took home after filming.
Elgort smiled at the question. "Yes! I have the main hero jacket. They didn't want me to take it, but I took it. I take my jackets. I know in my first couple of movies, I was always trying to take my costume and they'd always said, 'We'll send it to you,' and then they never send it to you," he explained. "So someone said, 'You have to take it.' Yeah, so I took the Fault in Our Stars jacket; I took the Baby Driver jacket . . . I always take costumes from all my movies."
Elgort's sneaky wardrobe acquisition elicited a bit of jealousy from Wright, who exclaimed, "I should have taken a prop! I want that blue car, the little toy car!" And Elgort - perhaps emboldened by his character, Baby, a robbery getaway driver - gave his director a bit of criminal encouragement. "It's in storage," he offered, conspiratorially. "They'll never come after you."
Luckily for Elgort, his performance in Baby Driver was so excellent that I doubt anyone will begrudge him a missing coat. Let's just hope he's got enough room in his closet for the many jackets to come from what's sure to be a long, successful acting career.
11 Powerful, Moving LGBTQ+ Documentaries You Can Watch on Netflix
We're celebrating LGBTQ Pride all month long, but there's always a way to take this action, awareness, and passion step further. In 2017, it's more important than ever to celebrate and bring awareness to the LGBTQ+ community. We're continuing our efforts by spotlighting some of the most poignant LGBTQ documentaries currently on Netflix. With captivating stories about all different aspects of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender life, it's practically impossible not to feel inspired and even more impossible not to learn something incredible along the way.
11 Powerful, Moving LGBTQ+ Documentaries You Can Watch on Netflix
We're celebrating LGBTQ Pride all month long, but there's always a way to take this action, awareness, and passion step further. In 2017, it's more important than ever to celebrate and bring awareness to the LGBTQ+ community. We're continuing our efforts by spotlighting some of the most poignant LGBTQ documentaries currently on Netflix. With captivating stories about all different aspects of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender life, it's practically impossible not to feel inspired and even more impossible not to learn something incredible along the way.
The Surprising Thing That Ansel Elgort Steals From Every Film Set
When I walked into the press junket conference room to sit down with Ansel Elgort and Baby Driver director Edgar Wright, the young actor complimented my jacket. Then he praised my coworker's coat. He even threw in some mutual flattery, adding, "You've both got good jacket game." My takeaway from this is, of course, that Ansel Elgort f*cking loves jackets. And with such a jacket-heavy introduction, I should have known that things would eventually come full circle.
We chatted for a while about Baby Driver, which hits theaters June 28 and at press time boasts an unprecedented 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The stylized action movie - which offers a "buy-it-on-vinyl good" soundtrack and also stars talents like Kevin Spacey, Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx, and Lily James - is nothing short of a perfect Summer film. During the interview, it's clear that Wright and Elgort are immensely proud of the project, and rightfully so. As they shared memories about the movie, I wondered about any mementos that they may have pocketed from the set.
"They didn't want me to take it, but I took it."
I'd attended a screening of the film the night before our interview, and during the Q&A session, Elgort noted that he kept one of the Subaru WRXs used while filming some of the stunt-driving scenes, admitting that he "caught the bug" and now loves drifting. (And after watching the film, I can see why - it'll make you want to swerve into every parking garage at 90 miles per hour!) But since a car isn't the sort of nostalgic prop memory that most actors keep, I asked Elgort if there was anything else he took home after filming.
Elgort smiled at the question. "Yes! I have the main hero jacket. They didn't want me to take it, but I took it. I take my jackets. I know in my first couple of movies, I was always trying to take my costume and they'd always said, 'We'll send it to you,' and then they never send it to you," he explained. "So someone said, 'You have to take it.' Yeah, so I took the Fault in Our Stars jacket; I took the Baby Driver jacket . . . I always take costumes from all my movies."
Elgort's sneaky wardrobe acquisition elicited a bit of jealousy from Wright, who exclaimed, "I should have taken a prop! I want that blue car, the little toy car!" And Elgort - perhaps emboldened by his character, Baby, a robbery getaway driver - gave his director a bit of criminal encouragement. "It's in storage," he offered, conspiratorially. "They'll never come after you."
Luckily for Elgort, his performance in Baby Driver was so excellent that I doubt anyone will begrudge him a missing coat. Let's just hope he's got enough room in his closet for the many jackets to come from what's sure to be a long, successful acting career.
How to Make Sure Your Instagram Feed's Up to Date With the Fashion World
We like to think of Instagram as a VIP pass to the best fashion parties, behind-the-scenes snaps, and off-duty stylings of our favorite models and fashion insiders. It's the number one place to catch a glimpse of eye candy, from street style accessories to inspirational #OOTD looks.
Not sure you're following the right crowd? Just scroll down to find the handful of people who will keep you entertained and in the know all day long. From the most stylish actresses, funny fashion ladies, and renowned magazine photographers to major campaign stars, you can be sure this is one carefully curated list of industry insiders. Needless to say, your feed's about to get Insta cool. On Snapchat too? Make sure you're following the right bloggers and It models.
How to Make Sure Your Instagram Feed's Up to Date With the Fashion World
We like to think of Instagram as a VIP pass to the best fashion parties, behind-the-scenes snaps, and off-duty stylings of our favorite models and fashion insiders. It's the number one place to catch a glimpse of eye candy, from street style accessories to inspirational #OOTD looks.
Not sure you're following the right crowd? Just scroll down to find the handful of people who will keep you entertained and in the know all day long. From the most stylish actresses, funny fashion ladies, and renowned magazine photographers to major campaign stars, you can be sure this is one carefully curated list of industry insiders. Needless to say, your feed's about to get Insta cool. On Snapchat too? Make sure you're following the right bloggers and It models.
39 Disney World Facts That Even Die-Hard Fans Don't Know
The happiest place on Earth also happens to be one of the most interesting. Disney World has been around for nearly half a century, and with age comes good stories - and lots of them. We've rounded up 39 Disney World secrets even die-hard fans will be shocked to discover.
If you can't get enough Disney, check out our posts full of tips and facts:
Is Your Sunscreen Safe? You Better Read This Before You Apply
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Thanks to more educated consumers, there's a rising demand for "natural" or "safe" sunscreen. But what does it actually mean? We're here to help you protect your skin from dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays and potentially dangerous chemicals found in sunscreens themselves. Now is the time to get informed and ask yourself: is my sunscreen safe?
To understand what's at stake in each tube, we spoke to various experts, including Tata Harper, the founder of her own safe and natural skincare line. Harper was inspired to learn about safe personal care items after her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer. She realized we all use products with potentially dangerous ingredients. Sunscreen is one of them.
"Make sure the sunscreen you're using isn't actually doing more harm than good."
"Sun protection is so important, but many sunscreens contain ingredients that are absorbed into the skin and have been linked to serious health risks, and their labels can be very misleading," Harper said. "You need to make sure the sunscreen you're using to protect yourself isn't actually doing more harm than good."
Ingredients to Avoid
According to the Environmental Working Group, an organization that researches and educates consumers about toxins in personal care products, there are specific ingredients you should avoid in sunscreens. The most important is oxybenzone. It is known as an "endocrine disruptor," which means it can interfere with our body's normal hormone functions. EWG says that oxybenzone can act like estrogen in the body, and it's been shown to alter sperm production in animals. It is also associated with endometriosis and allergic reactions. The skin absorbs oxybenzone in significant amounts when we use sunscreen that contains it, and a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) detected it in more than 96 percent of the US population. Other troubling studies have found traces commonly present in mothers' breast milk.
Octinoxate should also be avoided for similar reasons. Like oxybenzone, it is a hormone disruptor commonly found in sunscreen and readily absorbed into our skin with traces also found in mothers' milk. When in our systems, it may interfere with reproductive functions and also cause moderate rates of skin allergies.
Those aren't the only two offenders: EWG cautions against retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A often listed as an "inactive ingredient" in sunscreens. There is evidence that it could heighten sun sensitivity.
Harper said she also stays clear of methylisothiazolinone, explaining: "it is a preservative that the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety said could not be considered safe in any concentration in any leave-on product, but is still allowed in the US." Research has found that it could cause extreme skin allergies. Unfortunately, methylisothiazolinone is becoming increasingly popular in US-sold sunscreens. Other ingredients homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene make EWG's list of UV filters with moderate toxicity concerns, including organ system toxicity, allergies, skin irritation, or hormone disruption.
There is a debate about whether sunscreens approved by the FDA and Drug Administration (FDA) are safe, even when they include these ingredients. One debate is over retinyl palmitate, a synthetic form of vitamin A or retinol. Dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz, for example, isn't convinced that retinyl palmitate is dangerous. "The allegations of dangerous ingredients, like retinyl palmitate, have been proven to have no basis when subjected to peer review scientific studies," he said.
But EWG says its recommendation to avoid retinyl palmitate is based on results from a one-year skin cancer study performed by the FDA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). "It found that experimental animals treated with retinyl palmitate cream and UV exposure had more skin tumors and lesions than animals treated with a cream that had no retinyl palmitate," explained Sonya Lunder, EWG's senior analyst and lead author of its sunscreens guide. She notes the agencies have initiated a follow up study to confirm and extend the findings. If you'd rather be safe than sorry, you'll want to avoid this ingredient until more conclusive evidence is found either way.
"Mineral sunscreens are a better alternative, since they create a physical barrier on the skin instead of absorbing."
In order to air on the side of caution, Harper and Lunder both suggest opting for for mineral sunscreens instead of chemical sunscreens. "Mineral sunscreens are a better alternative, since they create a physical barrier on the skin instead of absorbing," Harper explained. When shopping for mineral sunscreens, you should look for active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both will protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation, without the added risks, as there is little evidence that the zinc or titanium particles penetrate the skin.
And don't be fooled by fluffy words that actually don't have any regulatory meaning, including: hypoallergenic, gentle, or natural. The FDA has no control over who can use those labels. In general, Lunder suggests checking EWG's online database for individual product assessments - even for mineral sunscreens.
Quality Is a Concern
Now that you know what ingredients to avoid and which to look for, it's time to learn about quality. According to EWG, a good amount of sunscreens for sale in America are of low quality. But you might not even notice. First, it's important to understand that there are two types UV rays. UVB rays cause sunburns and skin cancers, while UVA rays cause wrinkles and other signs of aging, in addition to skin cancers. Poor-quality sunscreens may shield you from UVB rays without shielding you from UVA rays - meaning you'll be sunburn-free, but not fully protected.
Schultz has this advice: choose a sunscreen that's marked "with UVA protection" or "with broad-spectrum protection." To be labeled that way," he explains, "the manufacturer has demonstrated to the FDA that it will shield the skin from UVA rays and damage, when used as directed."
While the broad-spectrum label is a good place to start, EWG is also advocating for higher UVA standards from the FDA. Lunder explained: "Europe requires stronger UVA protection, and we estimate that half of all US sunscreens would not be sold in the EU." That includes those marked "broad spectrum." So if you want to be sure about full protection, extra research is required. EWG's sunscreen guide can help.
The Truth About SPF
SPF "or sun protection factor" is another label you need to pay attention to (obviously!) - but it may not be as simple as you think. SPF tells you how good a sunscreen is at blocking UVB rays. According to Consumer Reports, SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays specifically. SPF 30 blocks 97 percent. And SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. There's little upside after that. "Anything above SPF 50 is really just a marketing gimmick and can lead you to stay in the sun longer than you should," explained Harper. She notes that the FDA is even considering banning high SPFs because they are so misleading. Ironically, people may be more likely to get a sunburn wearing SPF 100 than SPF 50, because they think they're getting more protection than they actually are.
Application Matters, Too
You can have the safest and most effective sunscreen, but if you don't apply it properly it's worthless. Schultz cautions that protection from a sunscreen is only theoretically unless you use as directed: "If you don't apply enough sunscreen and reapply sunscreen after swimming, sweating, and otherwise every three to four hours, you won't get the potential protection." Even if a sunscreen is marketed as "water resistant," you must still reapply after time in the water, especially after towel drying.
We've all had a lobster moment. When you end up turning bright red after a day in the sun - even if you wore sunscreen. Schultz explains that most sunscreen failures occur from not reapplying often enough - or from forgetting certain areas. He explains: "That means the tops of ears, back of neck, and tops of feet."
Dr. Amy Wechsler, another dermatologist, offers this tip: "Apply while looking in the mirror so no spots are missed and reapply every two hours or after swimming or exercise." Taking the extra care during application will also help you avoid looking like a ghost. Rub it in!
If reapplying is key, those spray sunscreens that make it easy are probably a good idea, right? Wrong. EWG recommends avoiding sprays, which don't provide a thick and uniform coating on skin and pose inhalation concerns. And of course, sunscreen is only one step in protecting yourself from sun damage. Be sure to wear shirts and pants while you're out in the sun, and stay in the shade during the afternoon. As Harper said, when it comes to protecting your face "the safest and most effective method of sun protection is still wearing a hat!" It's the perfect excuse to get that wide-brimmed Panama hat you've been eyeing.
Tools to Help You Shop
In time for Summer, EWG has released its guide to sunscreens for the 11th year in a row. Researchers analyzed 1,500 sunscreens, moisturizers, and lip balms that advertise sun protection and found that 73 percent of the products don't work well, or contain worrisome ingredients such as oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate.
To help you find the good among the bad, you can can search its extensive list of sunscreens that do make the cut. The researchers also created a helpful interactive graphic (click below) to help you decode each bottle you encounter.
To recap, here's what you'll want to look for when shopping for sunscreen:
Look For
- Zinc oxide
- Titanium dioxide
- Broad Spectrum or UVA protection
- SPF 30 or 50
Avoid
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Retinyl palmitate
- Homosalate
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Methylisothiazolinone
- Spray-on sunscreens
We've selected 10 safe sunscreens that get a safe rating of one or two from EWG. We've either tested them ourselves or they've been recommended by the experts we spoke to. With these, there's no need to be afraid of the sun - or your sunscreen.
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