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.
mardi 4 juillet 2017
How Strength Training Helped Me Change My Life For the Better
It's no secret that fitness is a pretty important part of my life, but it hasn't always been that way. I stumbled onto it during a difficult time when I was transitioning out of a long-term relationship and into single life. I had little confidence or self-esteem and was using drinking and partying as a way to cope. In the midst of my unhappiness, I stumbled onto strength training and fitness, and while I didn't know it at the time, it would soon become the catalyst I needed to change my life and finally find happiness (and strength, and confidence, and peace within myself, but we'll get to that).
The College Years
During college, I took full advantage of my newfound freedom and spent my time partying and living off pizza and fast food. The drinking and unhealthy eating started to catch up with me during my sophomore year. It wasn't a huge increase, but my self-esteem was already low and insecurity about my body began to creep in.
To combat it, I cycled back and forth between barely eating and doing hours of cardio every day in an attempt to cancel out the food I ate. I was developing a seriously unhealthy relationship with food and exercise, but all I cared about was being skinny and partying.
That lifestyle continued in the years after college, although to a lesser degree. To accommodate the 9-to-5 lifestyle of a working adult, I limited my heavy drinking to the weekends and drank wine a few nights a week to unwind from work.
I was religious about getting in my five to six hours on the treadmill or elliptical every week to try and keep the weight off, but despite regular exercise and restricting my food intake, I struggled to make any progress. I was getting so frustrated - I was sure that calorie restriction and cardio were what I needed to "get skinny" and I couldn't understand why it wasn't working.
I resigned myself to the fact that as I neared my mid-20s, my metabolism was slowing down and there wasn't much I could do about it.
The Turning Point
At 26, after a particularly wild weekend of partying, I spent a full day on the couch nursing a hangover and unhappily recalling my drunken antics from the previous night. That's when it hit me: I didn't want to do this anymore. I hated the fact that I was using alcohol as an outlet for my unhappiness, and more significantly I didn't like who I was becoming. I didn't want to continue being this party girl, but I felt lost. I wanted to change, but I didn't know how.
A few weeks later, the gym I belonged to was offering two free personal training sessions to members. Although I had no desire to work with a personal trainer (I just wanted to go to the gym, get my cardio in, and leave), they were giving $100 gift cards to anyone who completed the two free sessions, so I decided to go through the motions and get my gift card - I had big plans to use that free $100 for a massage.
I didn't want to continue being this party girl, but I felt lost.
I considered myself to be in shape from all the cardio I was doing, so I went into my first training session with little enthusiasm. However, after one 30-minute session, I was quickly humbled. I was sore for an entire week; everything hurt! Even walking and laughing were difficult from my sore legs and abs.
We had done a lot of very basic moves like push-ups, lunges, and squats and I couldn't believe how sore they had made me. I meekly began to consider that maybe I wasn't in as good of shape as I thought and that incorporating some strength training into my cardio-only routine might be a good idea.
I had no clue how to work out with weights, so I purchased a few more sessions with my trainer to learn the ropes. She had sparked my interest with her style of strength training. It wasn't the slow, low-intensity workout I had always pictured it to be - she pushed me hard and I was always sweaty and exhausted after that 30 minutes.
While the workouts were tough, they left me feeling accomplished and with a desire to get stronger and improve (and not simply a desire to burn calories). I don't take for granted that I ended up with a trainer who had a profound ability to motivate and inspire me. Life has a funny way of gently pushing you in the right direction, and this was my push.
Finding Myself Through Fitness
As I learned to incorporate strength training and circuit training into my routine, my confidence grew. My relationship with food and exercise also began to transform: the workouts I was doing were tough, but they left me feeling empowered and strong. In the past I had always looked at exercise as something I had to do in order to burn off the food I ate, but with my new workout program I was starting to get stronger. My motivation for working out slowly shifted: I cared less about how many calories I was burning and more about getting strong.
I also started noticing how much better my workouts felt when I ate good food and enough of it. Eating 1,000 calories a day meant I couldn't get through these kinds of workouts, so I stopped restricting calories so severely and began to focus on eating healthy, nutritious food instead. My viewpoint was beginning to shift: I started to see food as fuel.
I cared less about how many calories I was burning and more about getting strong.
Four or five months into working with my trainer, I was regularly strength training and circuit training and I loved how good my workout program was making me feel. Still, I continued to spend my weekends partying, which meant that Saturdays and Sundays were spent hungover on the couch. I started to resent the fact that I was nursing hangovers every weekend when I could have gotten a workout in and felt energized. Though it happened slowly, I was coming to an important realization: fitness made me feel better than partying.
Over the next year, I slowly cut back on drinking and started finding other things to do in my free time. I started dating someone who fully supported my decision to spend less time partying, and we found other things to do on the weekends: hiking, movies, local festivals, etc. I didn't give up alcohol completely, but was learning to enjoy it in moderation.
Looking back, strength training became the foundation on which I rebuilt my life. It was the catalyst I needed to stop burying my unhappiness with drinking and partying and find the strength to live life fearlessly. It became a stepping stone for building self-esteem and confidence and has transformed me into the fit, strong, confident girl I am today.
22 Juicy Facts About Zara, Straight From an Insider Employee
We all want the insider scoop on our favorite places. For us, that's not an eatery or Disneyland - it's Zara. Fashion girls know this is the hot spot for trendy, affordable pieces, but beyond that, everything else is pretty much a mystery. We have questions like "When are the sales?" and "What are the most popular items?" For this insider information, I decided tap my friend (who wished to remain anonymous) who is a sales associate at Zara in NYC. She's been working at the store for four years, so you can bet she has a lot of shopping secrets to share. Read on for all the juicy details.
44 Completely Rational Reasons My 3-Year-Old Tantrumed Today
We all have rough days, but 44 tantrums in one day is a new record. From our friends at Babyology, read about the hilarious and rational problems that were worth crying about for this 3-year-old!
Have a threenager at home? Please, pull up a chair, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy these completely reasonable reasons my 3-year-old daughter cracked it today. Yes . . . all of these outbursts happened in a 24-hour period. I wish I was making this up.
My daughter's favorite pastime these days is to yell at me. Today, rather than simply struggle through the daily tantrums and tears, I decided to track them. Every time my daughter whined, cried, screamed, kicked, or lay on the floor with her feet in the air, I wrote it down.
My daughter discovered 44 problems worth crying about. And almost half of them occurred before 9 a.m.
- She wanted to wear her Elsa shirt (which is in the dirty clothes pile).
- She put her underwear on backwards.
- I put the wrong episode of Strawberry Shortcake on.
- I didn't get her breakfast quickly enough.
- She didn't want cereal. She wanted oats.
- I gave her the wrong bowl for her oats. She wanted the bowl that her uneaten cereal was in.
- She spilled oats on her knee.
- She wanted the small spoon.
- I gave her the yellow blanket instead of the pink blanket.
- She wanted to wear her Elsa dress instead of her Elsa shirt.
- It's not her birthday today.
- Her seat belt felt funny.
- Her brother looked at her in the car.
- The cat wouldn't let her pick him up by the tail.
- She couldn't open the wrapper to her muesli bar.
- I opened the wrapper to her muesli bar too much.
- Her muesli bar broke in two.
- When coloring in, I used the wrong color of blue for Cinderella's dress.
- I sat on her imaginary friend.
- She put her shoes on the wrong feet.
- Peppa Pig ended.
- I cut her sandwich into triangles.
- I cut her second sandwich into squares.
- I wouldn't let her play in the car.
- I suggested we take a nap.
- She dropped her hat on the road.
- I didn't let her answer the phone.
- I sat on the wrong side of the couch.
- It started to rain.
- I had to cook dinner.
- Her brother talked to her.
- She spilled her water.
- I used the red towel to clean it up. I should have used the pink one.
- I had a shower without her.
- I helped her brother with his homework.
- She lost her doll's pink shoe.
- I asked her to take a bath.
- I asked her to get out of the bath.
- The towel felt itchy.
- Her brother got his pajamas on quicker than she did.
- I turned the page of her bedtime story incorrectly.
- Teddy fell off the bed.
- I didn't tickle her arm properly.
- I yawned.
The next time your toddler screams the house down because you didn't cut his sandwich right, just remember, there is a whole world of moms and dads out there, cutting the crusts off their triangle sandwiches and silently cursing the skies for this difficult stage in parenting.
Please, share the completely illogical reasons your toddler lost it today so I can revel in the fact I am not alone.
And let's prepare to do it all over again tomorrow. Because even the worst of tantrums can be erased with a simple cuddle, kiss, and "I love you, Mommy."
Thirsty? Just Swipe Right on These Shirtless Celebrity Hotties
50 Dips For Delish Dunking
A winning appetizer should be easy, fun, and delicious. What better way to bring all those ideas together in a bowl than with a tasty dip? To encourage you to go for it, we've rounded up more than 50 salsas, cheesy dips, hummus variations, and even a handful of dessert dips in order to get your creative juices flowing. You'll find something for every palate, from chili con queso to Oreo cookie dough dip!
- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry and Brinton Parker
Gear Up For Summer Fun With Our July Must Haves
Whether you're road tripping around the country or your county, here are some things to keep you fit, healthy, and happy on your Summer adventures both big and small.
10 Selena Quotes Every Die-Hard Fan Knows and Loves
It's been 20 years since the release of Selena, but the movie still holds a special place in every fan's heart. Not only has Selena's husband, Chris Perez, admitted that the amazing "Anything for Selenas" bumper scene actually happened in real life, but he also revealed that their pizza date was the first time they said they loved each other. While there are so many memorable moments to choose from, here are the Selena quotes every fan knows and loves.
Everything You Need to See From the Chanel Couture Show
For this season's spectacular set, Karl Lagerfeld paid the ultimate tribute to the City of Light, transforming the Grand Palais into the Eiffel Tower for the Chanel Fall '17 Couture show. A replica tower was built right over the runway, with models making their walk under the arch. Per usual, the front row was a veritable who's who of Hollywood and style insiders like Cara Delevingne, Kristen Stewart, Julianne Moore, and Katy Perry.
As for the clothes, Karl introduced boater hats to complement every look, while modest silhouettes in navy, grays, and blacks dominated the catwalk. The one exception, of course, is Lagerfeld's bridal look - this time, a voluminous, long-sleeved confection, trimmed with white floral embellishments and finished with a mile-long tulle veil floating behind her. Read on for every awe-inspiring moment from the runway.
1 of Obama's Top Aides Reveals a POTUS Story She's Never Told Before
As President Obama's former deputy chief of staff for operations, you better believe Alyssa Mastromonaco has some stories to tell. In her new memoir, Who Thought This Was a Good Idea: And Other Questions You Should Have Answers to When You Work in the White House, she shares a moving, funny, and sometimes heart-wrenching look back at the years she spent in politics and by POTUS's side. We caught up with Mastromonaco to find out what it was really like to be one of the youngest people - and one of the few women - to ever hold her position in the White House, discuss sexism's impact on politics, and get her to share her personal hopes for what's next for Barack and Michelle Obama. She even told us a pretty charming story about President Obama's meddling in her romantic life she's never told anyone - and that includes her husband.
POPSUGAR: It's pretty clear from your book that you have a deep admiration and respect for Obama. Is it fair to say working for him made you a better person? Better at your job?
Alyssa Mastromonaco: I would say that Barack Obama not only made me a better person but made me better at my job. He's one of the most intellectually curious people you'll ever meet and really brings that out in other people. When I first got to the White House, I was super anxious all the time about not knowing the answer to every question. And Obama was actually the person who let me be me. He was like, "Alyssa's not the person who wears the Ann Taylor suit. She's not the kind of person who always says the exact right thing." And I'm a bit of a wild animal. I brought a different perspective and I was a little bit more irreverent and casual.
PS: I teared up when I got to the end of the book and read the passage about him calling you after your beloved cat died. It was well after you'd resigned from your White House post.
AM: Just so you know, I had to reread that portion of my audiobook three or four times, because I cried every time. I, more than anybody, saw all the things that were on his plate every day. I felt other people maybe didn't realize how much a note meant that he wrote them or a phone call. But I saw his thought process behind the few moments of free time he had and how he used them. So, I knew that him taking the time to call me meant he really cared and really deeply understood how upset I was. That's what made it so meaningful.
PS: I love the anecdotes about Barack trying to set you up. It happened more than once, if I recall!
AM: There's a story I tell [in the book] about leaving Iowa, when he's telling me to email a guy that he said was into me. There was a thunderstorm, and we ended up having to drive from Ames, IA, all the way back to Chicago. So Gibbs [then Obama's senior adviser] and I were in the backseat of the PT Cruiser, and Obama kept turning around like, "Email him. Email him right now. He was not a bad-looking guy."
PS: So wait, you were driving Senator Barack Obama around in a PT cruiser?
AM: He was in a PT Cruiser. It was gray.
PS: What's the biggest way you saw the presidency and everything that comes with it - the responsibility, the celebrity - change Barack and Michelle?
AM: I think the external perception made them much more aware of making sure they stayed themselves. We win and it's super heady, and then a couple months later you are awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, but the one thing that we all believed - and that the president believed - is that you can never really buy into your own hype. Because as much as the world loves you one minute, they can be way down on you the next. I think that you would say if you looked at both of them, they kept it pretty even-keeled throughout the eight years, and he expected the same of us.
Someone on the campaign came to me and said, "You better get in line, because the people in South Carolina are just going to think you're a real bitch."
PS: Do you keep in touch?
AM: Oh, yeah. I saw them both in Chicago [on Jan. 7], and I saw the president at Marvin Nicholson's wedding down in Florida [on Jan. 10].
PS: I know a lot of people are very excited to see what he and Michelle do next. What do you hope to see them do?
AM:There are so many kids in the world who have only grown up knowing that an African-American first family is a part of life. I think the next couple of years are going to be pretty hard to get through, so I hope that they're super visible and that FLOTUS keeps up all of her work with young women.
PS: You explicitly say part of your motivation in writing this book was to get more women interested in pursuing political careers. What in your own experience proved the need for that?
AM: I didn't have a ton of role models back in 1998. So, when I was looking to get in, it was really just looking up at all the men who were out there. When you're not seeing women - when you're breaking into anything - it's like, "Well, this is what the men do and how they act, so we're going to just emulate that behavior." I wanted young women to know that I was very lucky that I worked for people who literally let me be me. If I had ever been anyone other than me, I would have come off as a fake, a phony, a fraud, and never would have gotten where I ultimately ended up. You can be yourself and be in politics, and they should know that. That was kind of why I wanted to do it - because I didn't see any freaks in politics like me.
PS: Was there a particular moment you remember facing blatant sexism in the political world? How'd you handle it?
AM: There was a moment. It was the very beginning of the Obama campaign in January or February of 2007. I was asserting myself and someone on the campaign - who wasn't David Plouffe or Axelrod or anyone like that - but someone came to me and said, "You better get in line, because the people in South Carolina are just going to think you're a real b*tch." It was a man. I was just like, "Wow." I didn't say it, because I was so stunned, but in my head I was like, "Wow, and you're a real d*ck." That's the one moment I can really think of where I was like, "I don't think anybody would have said that to one of the guys." I wasn't even being aggressive. They were just wrong and I told them they were wrong.
I think that what you saw during those eight years, and in those last few weeks, was that the Obamas love people and they are going to miss them.
PS: I'm sure you have a fascinating perspective on how sexism impacted the 2016 election and Hillary Clinton- who you worked alongside when she was Secretary of State.
AM: I don't think that Donald Trump treated Hillary any differently than he treated Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio. He is a deeply disrespectful person who didn't have enough reverence for the office he was running for to act humane. I never like to oversubscribe to sexism. I'd love to say "Donald Trump is just sexist." And I do believe he's sexist, but I also believe that he also treats anyone who is his opponent in a very insane and disrespectful way. Saying "lock her up!" - which is insane - and calling him Lyin' Ted and him Little Marco . . . it's all really bad.
PS: What was it like from your perspective to witness the entire election cycle, this time from the outside in? Did you have FOMO?
AM: It was really hard. But the whole time, I think that we all thought that she was really going to win. So, you didn't feel that kind of FOMO like, "Oh my god, I should be there because I could make such a difference." I think we all kind of thought it was handled and then, when she didn't win, I did feel like, "Oh, god, now I really need to be an activist." I want to be out marching all the time. I want to wear "Feminist AF" t-shirts.
PS: How did the Obamas seem in January when you saw them? I know Michelle Obama has been pretty open about feeling a sense of relief about being able to step away from the White House.
AM: The times I saw them, they were pretty nostalgic. I'll tell you two things: if you look at the video of the farewell speech the president gave on Jan. 10 in Chicago, and you look at the very end, you can tell he's taking in the moment. The thing that I think is so depressing, fundamentally, about Donald Trump, is that he doesn't appreciate what's happening right now. He doesn't seem to think it's an honor. He doesn't seem to understand why we're actually super blessed to have the government we have. I also don't ever get the sense that he loves Americans. If you look at POTUS [Obama] - and I will always call him POTUS - I think that what you saw during those eight years, and in those last few weeks, was that they really love people and they are going to miss them. And that they deeply appreciate the opportunity they were given.
Most women will want to only give their opinion only when it's almost fact in their mind - whereas dudes will pontificate a lot more. And I will tell you, I've started pontificating a lot more.
PS:What's your advice for young women who might be interested in getting into politics, but are feeling deterred - whether it's because it's still a male-dominated field, or they just don't know where to start?
AM: Find someone who you really believe in - that can be at a state level. The one thing I can encourage women to do the most is to start at the state level. It is the biggest reason that the Democratic party is behind. Women generally have to start building the bench, and right now our bench is a little thin. If I were to ask you who you think will run in 2020, we're like, "I don't know. Maybe Elizabeth Warren? Maybe?" Because there aren't five or 10 people. I would encourage young women to find that person, give it your all, and leave it all on the field. The one thing I have found is that, if you are sitting at a table, most women will want to only give their opinion only when it's almost fact in their mind - whereas dudes will pontificate a lot more. And I will tell you, I've started pontificating a lot more, which is very satisfying. They should not be afraid to speak.
PS: What's a piece of advice, or something Obama said to you over the years, that really stuck with you?
AM: Here's something nobody knows. When I had been dating my husband for a while, the president said to me, "When is he going to put a ring on it?" And I was like, "Oh, come on. We are so busy. We don't need to think about that." He said, "He needs to put a ring on it because you're worth it." And the thing is, I'm not even kidding you, it was about a week or two later that we got engaged. I've never told that story to my husband, either. It would be news to him. Also, what, are you going to go back to your boyfriend and say, "The president told you to put a ring on it"? The lamest thing ever.
PSA: Gold Hoop Earrings Are Officially the Accessory of the Summer
It's all about the accessories this Summer, and street style stars can't get enough of this one classic look: gold hoop earrings. There's been a resurrection of this style, and we've been seeing celebrities and bloggers wearing them with everything from a bikini to jeans and a t-shirt.
Hailey Baldwin can't seem to get enough of her 18k gold Ippolita earrings while gal pal and fellow model Kendall Jenner has been seen wearing an oversize pair with a floral minidress. Scroll on to have a look and shop a few pairs for your jewelry collection if you're feeling inspired.
I Couldn’t Look at My Body Until I Learned How to Appreciate It
I always liked the feeling of being covered. How small I felt under a ballooned sweatshirt or an oversize t-shirt. No one could make out my exact shape, which meant they couldn't judge or analyze it. As long as I was covered, there was enough space between me and everyone else, and in that space was where I felt most safe.
There was a comfort in being covered, so much so that the idea of being naked, of seeing myself naked, was unsettling. When I was younger I would cast my eyes to the floor when getting dressed in the morning, making sure not to catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Getting into the shower without seeing my reflection in the mirror was a particularly interesting event. It was American Ninja Warrior: Bathroom Edition. Every move was pointed and strategic. Flick on the light, peel off my clothes, run past the mirror with eyes fixed on the shower, and hop in. If I missed one step and caught a glimpse of myself, even for a second, I would spend that shower time obsessively dissecting my body.
There was a comfort in being covered, so much so that the idea of being naked, of seeing myself naked, was unsettling.
I don't know when I started refusing to acknowledge my body. I didn't know how to accept it or appreciate it, let alone give myself a chance to.
I'm not sure how I would classify my body growing up. I definitely had some weight on me; I guess you could call it "well covered." But no matter how many times my parents told me I was beautiful and that my weight didn't matter, I felt big.
As I got older, I started to catch on to the way people talked about weight and how they classified certain body types. I was especially intrigued by how people talked about children and weight, because a lot of people like to talk about how much they love chubby kids. But from the way they spoke it was clear that chubby and cute transitioned into fat and sloppy around a certain age. That there's a time when having a little "extra meat" stops being cute.
That was probably when my self-aversion started, during that period when the baby fat should have started to go away. I became very aware of my body and how it was in comparison to others, and backhanded comments from people and the magazine editorials focused on unbelievably slim bodies helped to confirm my breadth. I didn't feel pretty and I didn't feel desirable - and while we should be able to feel those things without outside validation, I based my worth on how people saw me.
Those negative feelings turned into tools constantly used for self-deprecation. I thought my body was the problem and that if I could somehow fix my physical self then things would start to come together.
When I started playing lacrosse in middle school I lost a decent amount of weight from running all the time. Even with the weight loss, being slimmer itself didn't really impact the way I thought of myself and definitely didn't make me feel more comfortable with my body. But what helped was the way my coaches talked about the body in relation to the game and how each part served a certain purpose on the field. Suddenly my bigger thighs were a mark of strength and stability; they helped me get into a better defensive position and gave me more leverage against attackers. A lot of the game revolves around your upper body so it was about how solid you could be, especially when going to goal because you would have to maneuver past and through people.
I could look down the field and see the whole spectrum of body types not just represented but appreciated. Each of our bodies served a purpose and were built a certain way, and it wasn't about changing your body but how you could enhance what you had by making it stronger. From understanding my body in that sense I started to value what was mine.
It's truly amazing how many ways you can hate on yourself without having any reason to, and lacrosse forced me to see my body and realize just how mentally unhealthy the way I used to treat it was. So I made it a point to give it the love and attention it deserved, starting with my evening shower routine.
Every night, instead of running into the shower in an attempt to avoid looking at my reflection, I would position myself in the center of the mirror and undress. I made myself look at my body, studying it so I could get to know it better. I would stare at my reflection for about two minutes and tell myself three things I liked about my body - anything, from my big lips to my muscular arms. It also involved picking the features that weren't particularly my favorite too, because those parts of me deserved just as much love.
Originally it felt weird and forced, but like anything else it took time to become comfortable. The new routine was the hardest on those days when I felt particularly critical of myself. Those days proved to be the most valuable though because it's easy to point out what you like about yourself when you feel good, but it's when you can still see how beautiful you are on those bad days that most improve your self-acceptance.
While it was important to take in my body, it became just as important to list off things I liked about myself separate from how I looked. A means of communicating that worth does not stem from appearance. There is so much more to a person than their physical being, and in a world where looks are so highly regarded it's important to remind ourselves that our weight, hair, or skin tone do not define us as people. Yes, they may be a part of us, but they in no way make up our whole being.
It feels nice to be able to look at myself and feel comfortable; to fully love my dark skin, kinky hair, stretch marks, and ever-changing body.
Years later this is still my evening routine and although I sometimes find myself getting caught up in the areas I would most like to improve, I allow myself to have my human moments of insecurity and then work my way out of them. Getting comfortable with yourself is a process and it's one you have to continuously work on. I've come to learn that you make time for the things you care about, and since I believe caring for yourself is one of the most important things you can do, I make time for me.
I would love to be able to say I feel confident in my body and myself every day, but that's just not the case, and that's OK. That's a part of being human, but I've noticed a lack of interest in wanting to be something other than myself. I can recognize the beauty of someone else's body and appreciate it while also loving what I got.
Talking to yourself in the mirror can sound really corny and I'm not sure there is any scientific research that proves it helps, but I do believe it's extremely important to change the rhetoric we have with ourselves. And it just feels so nice to be able to look at myself and feel comfortable; to fully love my dark skin, kinky hair, stretch marks, and ever-changing body. I think most people underestimate just how liberating liking yourself can be, and I feel so free.
A Waterproof Eyeliner For Every Color of the Rainbow
Nobody enjoys eyeliner running down their face on a hot Summer day, but don't worry, we have a solution. While traditional liner smudges and smears and can end up in a huge dark mess all over your face, waterproof liners will stay put in even the roughest conditions.
Instead of looking like you've been crying your eyes out, try investing in waterproof options perfect for getting through hot days, poolside adventures, and lounging on the beach.
Read on to get a waterproof eyeliner in every hue of the rainbow. You'll never have running liner again.
Long-term heartburn medication use tied to higher risk of early death
Long-term use of a class of drugs that treat heartburn may be linked to a shortened lifespan, but doctors still need to determine if the risk of using proton pump inhibitors outweighs the benefits for individuals.
Stars, Stripes, and Skin: Celebrities Are Going All Out For the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is finally here, and some of your favorite celebrities are celebrating America in style! From beach getaways to family barbecues, Hollywood is showing off their patriotism in fun and and creative ways. While Christina Aguilera hung out by the water, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard rocked matching onesies. Keep reading to see how all of your favorites stars are celebrating the Summer holiday.
9 Celebrity Couples Who Tied the Knot on the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is special for many reasons: you get to celebrate the birth of our great nation while barbecuing with friends, drinking lots of beer, and waving American flags around until your wrist snaps. But for a handful of famous couples, the holiday is cause for even more celebration. Keep reading to see nine celebrity pairs who walked down the aisle on Independence Day.
Could drug testing at music festivals save lives?
Some music festival goers are getting their party drugs tested this summer. Critics argue this sends the wrong message, but advocates say people should know what they're taking in the age of fentanyl.
15 Pitcher-Perfect Cocktails For Breezy Bartending Duty
Cocktails taste better when they're enjoyed with good company, but rather than craft a bunch of different beverages (I mean, who really wants to be stuck with bartending duty all party long?), make pitcher drinks like sangria, margaritas, and punch. All you have to do is make a large batch, and everyone gets a glass on demand. Hooray! Here are a few of our favorites, just in time for that pool party, BBQ, or whatever else you have planned for the holiday weekend.
- Additional reporting by Anna Monette Roberts
3 Reasons Kids Should Never Open Up Gifts During Their Birthday Party
Growing up, there was always one thing that made my birthday parties different from my friends'. Not the perfectly executed birthday cakes or the elaborate goodie bags (even though these details were always spot on!), but it was part of the party that was always missing: I never opened gifts during the celebration.
Although as a child I didn't understand why was this was my mom's biggest birthday rule, and as I got older it became a part of our party norm so I didn't give it much thought, as an adult I appreciate my mom's present-opening ban. Along with the other meaningful traditions from my childhood that I plan to pass on to my kids, I will also take a note out of my mom's birthday party playbook and won't be letting my children open their gifts at their parties.
Some people skip this part of the event for the sake of convenience (it can be time consuming and messy), but my mom had different reasoning for her stance on gift opening, and this meaningful position taught my siblings and I an important lesson. These are the three reasons kids should wait until after the party to start digging into the pile of gifts.
- It can make other kids feel bad. Birthday parties are supposed to be fun for everyone, not just the birthday kid, and opening gifts in front of everyone creates an opportunity for some guests to feel uncomfortable. There are countless reasons the gift situation could be tricky for other kiddos: whether their parents forgot their gift, couldn't afford to give one, gave less than someone else, opted out for cultural reasons, gave the same thing as someone else, gave something the child already has, or gave exactly what another child wanted, skipping this part of the party can help keep jealousy and discomfort away from the bash.
- It puts the focus on presents. A birthday party should be centered around spending time with friends and not just what you get out of it. Keeping the focus on making memories with guests and not on what they brought reinforces what your little one should prioritize. This will help keep them from zeroing in on what a guest brought from the time they walk in and comparing packages from different friends. Plus, once they start unwrapping things, it's hard to switch the focus back to the party and away from their new loot.
- It puts pressure on the kids. Although it's important for a child to learn how to graciously accept gifts, there are other ways to teach this without putting them on the spot in front of potentially dozens of people. Even if a child is perfectly polite, it's hard to hide the difference between genuine excitement and just good manners. This can make the kid with a "mediocre" gift feel bad while also putting pressure on your child to consistently have an even response and reining in pure joy over a major surprise. Also, if your child happened to be upset about a particular gift (hey, it happens), at least that reaction isn't seen by the other kiddos.
22 Swimsuits From the Sale Section Because, Um, We Love a Good Deal
The most satisfying swimsuit purchase is one you don't have to spend a ton of money on. Oftentimes, you'll be able to find a stylish, more affordable alternative of the style you like; it just takes a little digging. But we know you're pressed for time, especially when we're in peak bikini season. So, we went ahead and did a little research to find the best swimsuits that are on sale right now. Consider this a guide to kickoff your search, though you might just end up buying one or two of the pieces ahead and calling it a day.
30 Hidden Tattoos Ideas to Satisfy Your Craving For New Ink
Even if your body is a tattooed wonderland already, there's something fresh and rebellious about getting new ink in a hidden place. On the flip side, if you're still easing into the idea of your first tattoo, getting something undercover could be just the way to make it all seem less stressful. Either way, hidden tattoos are a great way to ink your body just for you (though don't be surprised if you suddenly feel the need to post it all over Instagram). The best part is you can choose to play peekaboo or let it be your little secret depending on your outfit each day. Ready to get your tat? Browse these ideas.
Thinking of Trying Weight Watchers? Here's Exactly How (and Why) It Works
It's the Oprah diet (she lost 42 pounds and counting!) and the diet your aunt goes to her weekly meetings for. You've definitely heard of Weight Watchers, but do you know how it works? It's actually one of the most effective diets out there.
In the world of weight loss, Weight Watchers has been ranked 2017's No. 4 best diet overall, the No. 1 best weight-loss diet, and the No. 1 best fast weight-loss diet by U.S. News, and these aren't new accolades; the diet is consistently top ranked and backed up by research. A 2013 study found that dieters are more likely to stick with Weight Watchers (and lose weight) than they were with a treatment from a specialized weight-loss clinic.
So it's been proven effective, people are losing weight and changing their lives, and experts agree that it's one of the best diets you can be on - but how does it work? Here's a breakdown of all the facets that make Weight Watchers so successful.
The Points
The points are the hallmark of this diet. With Weight Watchers, there's less of a focus on calorie counting, but a focus on points instead - this makes sense, because not all calories are created equal. You could eat 200 calories of lean chicken or 200 calories of gummy bears, but that doesn't mean they're the same nutritionally.
So instead of counting calories - which is ultimately too top-line if that's your only means of quantification - every food gets assigned a point value called SmartPoints, and they're based on calories, saturated fat, sugar, and protein.
It works like a "budget." And that makes sense - a lot of people are great at (or at least understand the concept of) budgeting their money but can't apply that principle to their food. You'll put an item down at the store that's too much money, but you probably wouldn't think twice about a food that was super high in sugar and saturated fat.
This is how SmartPoints work, in budgeting terms (and according to the site): in terms of value, calories "set the baseline" for how much the food is "worth," while protein makes the food cheaper (fewer points, meaning it's healthier and you can have more), and saturated fat and sugar make that food more expensive.
Weight Watchers Chief Scientific Officer Gary Foster, PhD, added, "The plan nudges members toward a healthier pattern of eating that includes more lean protein, fruits, and vegetables, and less sugar and saturated fat. All fresh fruits and most vegetables are zero SmartPoints."
Subscribers of the diet get personalized points. "The daily SmartPoints target is based on age, gender, height, and weight to help them determine how much they need to eat each day to lose weight at a safe rate - about one to two pounds per week," said Foster. There are also allowances for bigger portions, going out to eat, and weekend "splurges," which make for a much more realistic and sustainable meal plan.
No Food Group Elimination
Another reason it works is because you're not cutting out food groups - Foster noted this as one of the key reasons Weight Watchers is so effective. Who could forget Oprah's love for bread and her overzealous, unbridled joy when she told commercial audiences nationwide that she can eat bread on Weight Watchers? "Members can personalize the program to meet their needs, and everything is on the menu - no food is off limits," said Foster.
We interviewed a woman named Becca who had major success on Weight Watchers and lost over 100 pounds, and the no-elimination style of diet is what drew her in. "I joined Weight Watchers because the program seemed so easy and it still lets you eat the food you love in moderation."
U.S. News noted that one of the key factors in what makes a diet successful and effective is its sustainability, which is why Weight Watchers saw such high success and Whole30 did not. No eliminated food groups, no problem.
The Education
Diets can't be cookie cutter - every person's goals, lifestyle, body chemistry, and makeup are unique and different.
Weight Watchers adapts to this with an education focus - you learn about the best (and worst) choices for your diet and your body, which helps you understand food, nutrition, and weight loss better and on your own, independently from a diet or what someone is telling you to eat.
You'll also learn healthier recipes, portion sizes, and how to eat when you're at a restaurant. This helps you switch from an automated diet (where you end up feeling like a robot following commands) to a healthy lifestyle.
As U.S. News put it, "The company offers thousands of recipes, each with a SmartPoints value, to show how it fits into your eating plan. If you're preparing a dish that's not listed in the database, you can calculate the points value ingredient by ingredient, using your mobile app or through the company's website. Vegetarians, gluten-free eaters and people with other dietary preferences can also easily find items and recipes tagged for them."
The Meetings
Community is one of the biggest components of Weight Watchers and also one of the best ways to lose weight. You'll notice that any successful fitness or nutrition plan has a hefty community following it as well, encouraging each other, posting motivating photos on Instagram, or arranging for in-person meetups.
That's how Weight Watchers meetings started. Founder Jean Nidetch started inviting her friends over to her home in New York to catch up and discuss weight-loss strategy; that tradition lives on today. This style of support system can help with weight loss in a number of ways, including cortisol management (the stress hormone that can contribute to belly fat). A study in the journal Psychiatry showed evidence of social support counterbalancing stress.
"It is easier to live a healthier life and start this journey when you have a shared experience," said Foster. "Others to help provide different perspectives, motivate you, hold you accountable, etc."
Weight Watchers members also have access to personal coaching, which can provide even more personalized and specific guidance. This coaching and leadership is an integral part of the program. "I don't know if I would've made it this far without her support and the support of our Weight Watchers leader," said Jamie, a woman who lost over 90 pounds with the program.
Keep in mind that all of these services do cost money, with the starter fee at $20 and the most expensive plan (unlimited meetings and personal coaching) at $70 per month.
The Fitness
Aside from diet, you earn "FitPoints" and can work with a Fitbit or tracking device to track your exercise and movement. This concept was introduced in 2015 and now ties into the overall points system.
50 States of Grocery Stores: The Best Store in Every State
Everyone has a favorite grocery store. But is your go-to supermarket the best one that your state has to offer? From budget-friendly warehouse stores to family owned grocery stores that have served communities for more than 100 years, there are so many stores across the US worth noting and adding to your list of places to visit for all your food-related needs. Ahead, see the best grocery store in all 50 US states and see if your favorites made the cut.
14 Reasons Espadrille Slides Are the Ultimate Summer Shoe
When it comes to your Summer shoe wardrobe, espadrilles are always a must. But now you can take this classic shoe one step further by mixing it up with the slide trend. We're loving this mashup even more because slides have an elevated edge to them, not to mention they are super cute and match with pretty much everything. Slide right into this season's most comfortable shoe choice with these stylish picks.
20 Gorgeous Wedding Dresses That Will Convince You Pockets Are a Must
From wedding dresses with sleeves to statement-making sheer styles, there are more options than ever for women who are searching for the perfect dress to wear on their big day. One wedding dress trend we can really get behind? Pockets. Because honestly, who wouldn't want to have the added comfort of pockets at their wedding? Stashing a phone, lip color, or anything else you think you might need becomes an option when you have pockets at your disposal - without having to worry about carrying and keeping track of a clutch. Here, we've hand-picked 20 gorgeous dresses in a variety of styles from casual to ultraformal that make convenience look chicer than you'd ever imagine.
36 Times Sasha Was the Most Stylish Member of the Obama Family
Michelle may be the master of polished style while Malia scores her best dresses from ASOS, but lately we've had our eyes on a different Obama lady's wardrobe: Sasha. From pairing her gowns with chokers to perfectly pulling off athleisure looks, the 16-year-old is a fashion icon in her own right - and honestly has been for years.
Looking back at her time growing up in the White House, Sasha's tried a variety of then-trends, from printed jeans to colorful tights. Scroll through to see how much of a style pro she's been from the start. Then check out the times Malia dressed just like Michelle.
Gordon Ramsay's Badass Tip For Making the Very Best Burgers
Image Source: Getty Images / Ethan Miller
Gordon Ramsay knows his sh*t, especially when it comes to classics. I trust him with my life when it comes to scrambled eggs and I'm about to do the same for his method on burgers. While at a press event to promote his new cooking game with Glu Mobile, Gordon joked, "The last time I was this ambitious was opening up my burger restaurant in Las Vegas, because you're doomed to come over as a Brit and attempt to open a burger restaurant in the middle of Las Vegas."
Image Source: Getty Images / Bryan Steffy
Here's where Chef Ramsay gets to the meaty part: "But we perfected the patty, and we basted it in Devonshire butter, and brought something new in. We toughened up the brioche buns so it could absorb all that butter . . ." Do you remember the Jack-In-The-Box Buttery Burger? Yeah, yeah, we all thought America had gone to hell and back until we took a bite and became believers. Quite simply, fat makes things taste better, and Gordon Ramsay definitely knows that. In case you are worried you can't procure Devonshire butter at your local grocery store, opt for a cultured butter like this one from Trader Joe's. It's salty and has a slightly funky cheese flavor. Baste the hell out of that burger for optimum flavor! And secondly, raise your hand if your bun has disentegrated within five minutes of placing the patty on it. Gordon has such an obvious yet uncommon solution: use a tougher bread! While a homemade brioche bun may be out of the question, consider a sturdy pretzel bun.
A Look Back at Sofia Vergara's Dating History
Before Sofia Vergara was one of the biggest names in Hollywood, she was just a girl from Colombia trying to make it after quitting dentistry school. Since landing the hit role of Gloria on Modern Family, the 44-year-old has been tied to a few famous men, including ex Nick Loeb of embryo-lawsuit fame. But did you know there she reportedly dated Tom Cruise?
Now, Sofia is happily married to the supersexy Joe Manganiello, but that won't stop us from looking back at the men that stole Sofia's heart in the past. Take a look at who came before him.
The Very Real Feelings Moms Have When They See Their Kids Glued to Their Cell Phones
It seems like it's only getting worse as your kids get older; they're becoming completely technology dependent and refuse to put the cell phones down. Sometimes it feels like they're doing it on purpose and other times it doesn't even seem like they even register that you're around because they're so glued to their text messages. Either way, it can incite a range of emotions from the frustrated parent who is just trying to get their child to unplug and engage with the family for a few precious moments. If your kid is constantly on his or her phone, you'll definitely relate.
What You Need to Know Before Letting Your Child Ride in the Front Seat
Amy S.'s 6-year-old daughter, who rides in the back of the family car in a booster seat, recently started asking if she can sit up in the front of the car with Mom. Jessica B.'s son is also begging to ride in the front seat, especially when he sees his peers get out from the front seat of the car when he's dropped off at school. Diane B.'s 11-year-old pretends not to hear her requests to return to the back seat.
It's normal for kids to express an interest in riding in the front seat of the car in the years leading up to teen-hood. But with parents in online communities referring to the front seat of a car as a "suicide seat," "death trap," or "child killer," as a reader named Charlie P. reports, it's no wonder the first response of many moms is a resolute "no."
So when does it become reasonably safe to allow your child to ride up front?
1. "Not Until the Teen Years"
General reader wisdom says children should not ride in the front of the car until they are about 12 or 13 years old. As Kelly B. explains, "What people don't understand is the reasoning behind why kids shouldn't sit in the front seats. They just are not big enough [before 12 or 13]."
She goes on to break down why riding in the front seat isn't as safe as riding in the back seat. During a collision, a child in the front seat can be thrown into the dashboard or through the windshield:
"Even if he's properly buckled in, he's at much greater risk for being harmed by objects intruding into the car in the front than in the back. What's more, in cars with passenger air bags (which includes most newer models), the car's frontal air bags deploy with such force that they can cause severe head and neck injuries to a child," she shares.
Jeannett S. and Talisha B. agree that it's best to wait until the teen years to allow your child to move up front. That's most likely the time when your child will reach the height and weight needed to minimize injury from an exploding air bag in a crash. "Just like a roller coaster ride at an amusement park requires you to be 'At Least This Tall to Ride the Ride,' so should a child be to sit in the front seat," says Jeannett. And Talisha adds firmly, "Once a child outgrows a booster seat, he or she should continue riding in the back seat with a seat belt until around age 13."
Brandi C., a mom who works in medicine, confirms these rationales with an eyewitness account. As a medical worker, she reports, the hardest thing she ever saw was the aftermath of an accident involving a 7-year-old "who wanted to ride up front with daddy to the store" and who had indeed been riding in the front seat: "They were rear-ended, and because of the child's size, he slipped under the seatbelt and under the dash, [and] died instantly. Since then, I have always carried that with me, and have chosen that my son and stepkids will not sit in the front seat until they are teenagers."
Some passenger safety organizations, such as SafetyBeltSafe U.S.A., take concerns like Brandi's one step further and suggest children continue to ride in the back seat until they are ready to drive themselves.
2. When State Laws Say It's OK
Some states have specific child-restraint laws and laws that spell out the rules regarding children riding in the front seat, offers a member named Talisha. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has information about choosing the right seat for your child in the car.
The laws can be very specific about what age, height, and weight a child must be to sit in a front seat. For example, in Colorado, where Brandi C. lives, children have to be 5 feet tall and 11 years old before they can ride in the front seat, she reports. Because each state is different, moms need to familiarize themselves with their own state's requirements. A mom named Jennifer suggests asking a local police officer the appropriate age, height, and weight for safe front-seat riding.
3. When No Other Seats Are Available
State laws are typically accommodating, letting a child who normally would not be allowed to sit up front to sit next to the driver if there are not enough safe rear seats in the vehicle, such as in a pickup truck, Sherri C. says. She notes that she had to let her oldest start sitting up front at age 9, when she ran out of seating in the back of her car. "With four car seats [already] in the back, he didn't have a spot to fit in," she explains.
Lynn V. notes that she would have had to let one of her three children ride in front when she owned a Plymouth Breeze. However, because she felt it was unsafe, she instead bought a Ford Expedition that had more rear seating available.
4. When Air Bags Are Turned Off
If you do place your child in the front seat, Kelly B. suggests checking to see whether your car's air bag has an on-off switch or taking your vehicle to the car dealership so that it can be disabled, and Brandy S. provides more details:
"Most two-seat cars and pickup trucks sold these days either have a switch that allows you to manually turn off the air bag, or they have 'smart' air bags that detect the weight of the body in the passenger seat and will automatically turn it off if the body does not weigh more than a certain amount. In certain scenarios, you may be able to take your vehicle to the dealership and have them deactivate the air bag if your vehicle does not offer other air bag-off options for placing a child in the passenger seat."
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration maintains a list of companies that install airbag on-off switches, Kelly adds, although she says parents need to get permission from that government organization before installing such a switch. And "if your passengers have all moved out of the car-seat phase, your biggest or tallest passenger should ride in the front seat, and [you should] move his seat as far back from the dashboard as possible," Kelly says.
Once the air bag is disabled, Charlie P. feels that the front seat is a "safe and practical place for a rear facing child" in a car seat, because, among other reasons, the front of the vehicle and dashboard are the strongest points in the car and research shows that parents are less distracted when their child is in the front vs. rear seat. "Safety conscious brands such as Volvo also state very clearly that front seat is just as safe as the rear seat for car seats," this member notes.
Safety First
Whatever your circumstances, the most important consideration, say many moms, is safety: if you're not comfortable with the idea of moving your child up front, don't cave in. A member named Kelly suggests buying some time by getting a high-back booster seat and installing it in the center of the back seat so that your child can more easily see and talk to you without having to sit next to you. As RenaFaye N. reminds, your most important consideration should be safety: "A child's safety is more important than what she thinks she wants."
Steve and Terri Irwin Were Wildly in Love - Look Back on Their Sweetest Photos
TV personality and Australian wildlife expert Steve Irwin (aka "The Crocodile Hunter") passed away in 2006 after he was attacked by a stingray, but his memory lives on in the hearts of his wife, Terri, and their children, Bindi, 18, and Robert, 13. Steve and Terri wed in 1992 after dating for only eight months and they would have celebrated their 25th anniversary on June 4. In honor of the special milestone, Terri penned a heartfelt message for her late husband on Twitter, writing, "Today would have been our 25th wedding anniversary. I miss you so very much, and I am grateful every day for the time we had together." Along with her note, Terri posted a black and white photo of the two kissing with an iguana on their heads. Relive some of Steve and Terri's best moments together.
10 Stores Urban Outfitters Fanatics Will Go Crazy For
Having a go-to shopping destination is like having an old friend you can always rely on for style advice (aside from the whole payment for goods part, of course). Whether you're in a fashion funk and need a boost or hunting for a last-minute look, you know you can count on your default destination - and for many of us, that destination is Urban Outfitters. With a hybrid vibe of quirky, vintage, sexy, and trendy, the Philly-born retailer always offers an instant shot of effortlessly cool style. But change is good and a girl's always gotta have options (shoptions, if you will), so why not try mixing it up? If you're ready to diversify your retail roster, here are 10 stores to try ASAP to find that same great style:
50 Movies Set in 50 States
As we get closer to the Fourth of July, we're forced to think about the vast history of our country, and the very different states that make up our nation. This complex variation is represented on film, and yes! There's a movie set in every single US state. There's obviously more than one memorable movie per state and multiple memorable movies set in certain states, but we've narrowed it down to one single iconic film to represent each one.
The Real History Behind Kate Middleton's Royal Jewelry
The Duchess of Cambridge is known for her perfectly crafted sense of style, and that extends to her glittering accessories. A decade ago, Kate Middleton wasn't really one for major sparkle. But access to Queen Elizabeth II's jewelry vault could turn any woman into a bling-lover. Kate has been lucky to wear heritage pieces either as loans or as gifts, including her diamond-encrusted Royal Family Order of Queen Elizabeth II badge.
We've tracked down the history of all the special pieces that Kate has added to her wardrobe. From diamond-encrusted brooches with deep meanings to tricky tiaras, here's a look at the many diamonds the birthday girl has worn - so far.
Show Off Your American Pride With Fourth of July Nail Art
If there's no such thing as too much of a good thing, then there's no such thing as too much red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July. For us, this means repping our country's favorite colors from head to toe - or, better yet, from our hairstyle to our pedicures. But we're not the only ones getting in the holiday spirit; the closer we get to the Fourth of July, the more we're seeing impressive patriotic nail art pop up all over Instagram.
Ranging from simple stripes to intricate fireworks, the beauty of celebratory nail art is the freedom to get creative - no matter whether you DIY your manicure or enlist the pros at a salon. This Independence Day, the best way to wave the American flag is with a hand of patriotic nail art. Cue up the national anthem, because we've got some serious Americana inspiration below.
Combine Cardio and Strength With This 30-Minute Treadmill Workout
Ready to hit the tread and get a great sweat sesh in? This treadmill workout was designed by Gold's Gym Director of Fitness Andy Coggan just for POPSUGAR.
"This is a full-body treadmill workout designed to burn calories and build strength," Andy told us. "No need to hit the weights after this routine, as each five-minute segment integrates an upper- or lower-body resistance movement with some sprints mixed in to keep the heart rate high throughout."
This 30-minute routine will breeze by - you'll be doing something different and challenging every other minute. Keep in mind that this workout is on the advanced side, and you'll need a set of hand weights for the cup holders on your treadmill for the strength-training portions. Are you ready? Let's go!
| TIME | SPEED (MPH) | INCLINE | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0:00-1:30 | 2-3 | 0% | Easy start to gradually warm up |
| 1:30-3:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Increase speed and incline; this is your "base pace" |
| 3:30-5:00 | 4-5 | 3% | Increase 1 mph from where you were |
| 5:00-6:00 | 1-1.5 | 5% | Complete 1/2-depth lunges by lunging to the front of the tread and alternating legs |
| 6:00-7:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 7:30-8:30 | 1-1.5 | 5% | Complete 1/2-depth lunges by lunging to the front of the tread and alternating legs |
| 8:30-10:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 10:00-11:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Take 5- to 15-pound dumbbells and complete reps of biceps curl to overhead press for 60 seconds |
| 11:00-11:30 | 3-4 | 0% | Put dumbbells in racks/cup holders and prep for 30-second sprint |
| 11:30-12:00 | 6-10 | 0% | Sprint; choose a speed challenging for the 30 seconds |
| 12:00-13:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 13:30-14:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Take 5- to 15-pound dumbbells and complete reps of biceps curl to overhead press for 60 seconds |
| 14:30-15:00 | 3-4 | 0% | Put dumbbells in racks/cup holders and prep for next stage |
| 15:00-15:30 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle (holding hand rail if necessary) |
| 15:30-16:00 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle opposite side |
| 16:00-17:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 17:00-17:30 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle (holding hand rail if necessary) |
| 17:30-18:00 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle opposite side |
| 18:00-19:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 19:00-19:30 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle (holding hand rail if necessary) |
| 19:30-20:00 | 2-3.5 | 0% | Lateral shuffle opposite side |
| 20:00-21:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Take 5- to 15-pound dumbbells and complete reps of biceps curl to overhead press for 60 seconds |
| 21:00-21:30 | 3-4 | 0% | Put dumbbells in racks/cup holders and prep for 30 second sprint |
| 21:30-22:00 | 6-10 | 0% | Sprint; try to go just a bit faster than the first sprint if possible |
| 22:00-23:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Base pace |
| 23:30-24:30 | 3-4 | 3% | Take 5- to 15-pound dumbbells and complete reps of biceps curl to overhead press for 60 seconds |
| 24:30-25:00 | 2 | 10% | Put up dumbbells and change incline and speed to prep for the next stage |
| 25:00-27:00 | 1-2 | 15% | Walk backward (holding rails if necessary) for two full minutes |
| 27:00-28:00 | 3-4 | 3% | Turn to face forward again on the treadmill and return to base pace |
| 28:00-30:00 | 2-3 | 0% | Cool down |
I Found a Pair of Denim Shorts to Make Me Love Cutoffs Again
As much as I love to shed the layers when the temperature rises, denim shorts are my greatest fear. Like everyone, there are little things I don't love about my body, and my legs are two of those little things. They really are little - I'm only 5'1", and yes, like many women, I have cellulite and stretch marks. Depending on the cutoffs that I'm wearing, these imperfections are more or less visible and I might feel more or less confident in my own skin.
But just because I'm wary doesn't mean I'm going to sweat my ass off in jeans when it's 90 degrees. Being the brave, adventurous, optimistic editor that I am (at least five people who read this will shake their heads and laugh when they see I called myself optimistic), I was determined to find shorts I liked. Because the truth is, even though I can be negative at times, I'm optimistic about fashion. And I do believe that there's denim out there for everyone, whether it's cropped or not.
You might not have the same body type as me and you might not be inclined to choose the same wash or the same material, but that's why I'm breaking down the details about four very specific short styles I tried. All of them were great - honest! But after I slipped into designs by Madewell, Zara, Mother, and Frame, I immediately knew which brand I liked best and which brand made me feel most comfortable. Read on for a rundown, see all different angles of these Daisy Dukes on me, and even though it makes me self-conscious, you can even check out my ass! (At least, now that I'm back in shorts, it won't be sweaty.)
Fun Fact: Julianne Hough Has Never Met a Bikini She Hasn't Loved
Julianne Hough has a rockin' body that just won't quit. Aside from flaunting her killer abs whenever she hits the gym, the Dancing With the Stars judge has been known to show off her gorgeous figure from time to time in movies like Safe Haven and Rock of Ages. Not to mention all of her tropical getaways with BFF Nina Dobrev. See some of her best bikini moments!
Why Didn't Anybody Tell Me: Shakes During Delivery
I felt prepared to give birth. I'd read my books, I'd taken my classes, and my friends shared a few too many gory details prior to the big day - but they didn't share everything.
Heading into my C-section, I was confident and full of anticipation. I knew what the procedure entailed and how long it would take. I knew the schedule for the baby afterward and had a plan so my husband would follow our baby as soon as he left the operating room. But once my son arrived, they came too - the shakes. Nobody warned me about the shakes. And these weren't just a little shiver felt throughout my body, but full-on, uncontrollable shaking that probably made me look like I was convulsing to the untrained eye. I honestly don't remember much about them - I was probably so pumped up on endorphins that they've been erased from my memory - but I do recall having trouble getting a full sentence out of my mouth because my teeth were chattering so hard. The whole "episode" probably lasted the total of an hour, and, like I said, it isn't anything I would have remembered, except that it happened again when my second son was born.
This time around, with a scheduled C-section on the books, I braced myself for some postpartum shaking prior to entering the operating room. My body, however, seemed to have something else in mind.
After receiving a spinal block and lying down on the table, I began to feel cold - like polar-vortex cold. I asked the operating-room staff to raise the temperature in the room, at which point my husband told me that the room was already very warm - he was sweating. Before I could say anything else, the shakes set in, and this time they were uncontrollable! Whether it was nerves (sometimes it's actually worse to know what to expect) or a side effect of the painkillers, I'll never know. But, thanks to a thoughtful anesthesiologist, my upper body was covered with an air-warming blanket that looked like it came out of Big Hero 6, which provided me some comfort and heat throughout the surgery. Before long, my second son was in my arms and the shakes were the furthest thing from my mind.
But consider this your warning. The shakes are real, and they're normal. They are part of your body's recovery (or in my case preparation) and nothing to worry about - unless they're accompanied by a fever. Because heck, you know you wanted your newborn to have an interesting first feeding session.
Did you have the shakes during your delivery?
Preserve Your Fruit at Its Peak Freshness and Make It Last Forever
Although mason jars have been repurposed as vessels for craft beer and Vietnamese iced coffee in trendy neighborhoods, they have not become any less effective at preserving fresh fruit. This excerpt from Ball Canning: Back to Basics ($10) walks you through the process of canning fruit. These straightforward, step-by-step instructions will guarantee professional results no matter which fruit you want to store.
Tips:
- Choose fruit that is bruise- and blemish-free at the peak of freshness.
- You may also use a dishwasher to wash and heat the jars.
You will need:
- Tested recipe and ingredients
- Glass preserving jars with lids and bands (always start with new lids)
- Water bath canner or a large, deep stockpot with lid and rack
- Jar lifter
- Common kitchen utensils, including measuring cups and spoons, large ladle, kitchen towel, and rubber spatula
- Large stainless-steel or enameled saucepan or Dutch oven
- Bubble remover and headspace measuring tool
- Labels
To begin:
- Heat jars: Examine the jars for defects. Place a canning rack at the bottom of the canner and fill halfway with water. Place the jars in and bring the water almost to a simmer over medium. Important: Keep the jars hot until ready to fill to prevent jar breakage. Wash lids and bands in warm soapy water, rinse, and set aside.
- Prep: Prepare the chosen fruit according to the recipe. Prepare the syrup, if using. Bring the sugar, or alternate sweetener, and water to a boil in a stainless-steel saucepan, stirring to dissolve. Reduce heat; cover and keep hot until needed. (Do not allow the liquid to evaporate.)
When It Comes to Fourth of July Parties, Taylor Swift Is a Firework
Whether you like her or not, you have to admit Taylor Swift knows how to throw a party. Over the years, the "Bad Blood" singer has become notorious for having a huge Fourth of July bash at her Rhode Island beach house. Seriously, if she wasn't a big pop star, she could definitely take up party-planning. While a lot has changed since her big soiree with her Red dancers in 2013, there are a few things you can always count on happening at one of her infamous gatherings. For example, a Taylor Swift Fourth of July party almost always includes:
- Baked goods
- Face paint
- Water slides
- Matching patriotic gear
- One or more of the Haim sisters
- Sea stampedes
- Inflatable floats
- A popular celebrity couple
- Tons of Instagram photos afterwards
As you get ready to celebrate the holiday this weekend, look back at her star-studded parties ahead.
Brides, You Need to See Forever 21's Affordable Bridesmaid Collection Immediately
The only thing harder than selecting your wedding dress is helping your group of bridesmaids select theirs. And even if you're a super laid-back bride who encourages her friends to pick their own pieces, bridesmaids tend to want to band together to get the look and feel just right. Make it easy on you and them by sending them to Forever 21's whimsical Pretty by Rory collection. Whether you want everyone in the same floor-grazer or envision seeing the group in something slightly different, these affordable options are ready for you.
8 Easy Summer Outfits Straight From Your Favorite Bloggers
Have you ever looked at your closet in the summertime and just been completely stumped? Well, you're not the only one. Oftentimes, we find ourselves rummaging through our closets in the warmer months to no avail. It feels like every outfit combination we pick out looks tired and worn-out.
Keeping this struggle in mind, we turned to some of your favorite bloggers to get another dose of outfit inspiration. From styling gorgeous gingham blouses to laid-back denim overalls, have a look at these easy Summer outfit ideas and shop to fill out your closet while you're at it.
8 Wedding Dresses That Stole the Spotlight From Pippa Middleton's
Before you label Pippa Middleton's wedding as the social event of the season, there are many more lavish ceremonies to consider. There were brides who threw destination weddings in Morocco and Italy, brides who hosted weekend-long festivities, and an heiress who got married in a million-dollar wedding dress. These ladies might not have ties to royals, but they threw weddings Queen Elizabeth would likely approve of.
Because it's hard to keep track of who got married when, we rounded up eight over-the-top nuptials you might have missed. If you thought Pippa's wedding gown was a dream, wait until you see these brides. They went all out, and they have the 'grams to prove it.
2017 Is Off to a Great Start For These Engaged Celebrity Couples
Now that Tara Lipinski has tied the knot, the world is waiting with bated breath for another celebrity wedding. Will Serena Williams be making the trek down the aisle soon, or will it be Nikki Bella? Perhaps it might even be Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons. Regardless of who it is, it's refreshing to see stars take the next step in their relationships given all the celebrity breakups we had last year.
These Are the 10 Most Instagrammable Beauty Trends of Summer 2017
We can watch all the runway shows and make all the predictions we want, but Instagram is a world of its own when it comes to the season's biggest beauty trends. It's often one where the brightest, boldest, and most creative win.
From the mesmerizing, and surprisingly easy, eye shadow trick beauty bloggers can't get enough of to the hairstyle of your pool party dreams (and a lot of holographic and colored streaks for all those festivals along the way), there's a lot of inspiration to be found. Read on for some of the hottest - literally melting - looks that will be dominating your newsfeed this Summer. Plus, score product picks along the way so you can DIY it all.
Daddy Yankee's Performance of "Despacito" With a Young Cancer Patient Is Pure Joy
Daddy Yankee sings 'Despacito' with a little girl fighting cancer. Much Respect! 🙌🏻🙏🏻Muy bien echo hermano!
Posted by Whilly Bermudez on Saturday, June 24, 2017
Daddy Yankee recently paid a visit to a young cancer patient and performed the ubiquitous song with Luis Fonsi, "Despacito." In an unexpected turn of events, however, the Puerto Rican artist didn't have to do much: the young girl absolutely nailed the entire song, leaving Yankee smiling the entire time.
Yankee stopped by the Hospital Universitario La Paz in Madrid while touring throughout Spain. That's when he met this sweet fan, Andrea, and sat down to perform the song with massive crossover success. Though Andrea sang the entire song perfectly, the best part came when she rapped Yankee's portion with him seated right beside her. At the end of the performance, the entire room erupted in applause. Watch the touching video in its entirety, above.
The Ultimate Celebrity Bikini Gallery
Let's look back at some of the best celebrity bikini moments of all time! Now that the warmer months are finally here, we'll see more and more celebrities donning two-pieces and hitting the beach. Keep scrolling to see the top shots and, if you can't get enough of stars in swimsuits, be sure to check out them out in their one-pieces.
15 Pairs of Blogger-Approved Shoes That Won't Make Your Feet Ache
When we first spot a heel we love on the foot of an It girl or fashion blogger, our first thought is that we want - no, need - it in our own closets. But soon, that lustful feeling fades, and in its place? The reality that those shoes are probably painful and most definitely hard to walk in.
However, there is a silver lining: comfy-cute pairs of sneakers, loafers, and ballet flats that the fashion crowd enjoys just as much. So which styles should you shop in order to dress just like the bloggers who fill your feed? Keep scrolling to find out.
All of Shay Mitchell's Sexiest Swimsuits Have One Thing in Common
It's no secret that Shay Mitchell is fond of traveling. The Pretty Little Liars star is constantly uploading photos of her envy-inducing vacations and dishing on her adventures in her YouTube series, Shaycation, which has over one million subscribers.
So when it comes to gearing up for a fun Summer getaway, she makes sure to pack her go-to - and very sexy! - swimsuit style, which may not come as a total surprise after scrolling through her feed. "I'm a huge fan of one-pieces . . . I love them," she told us. "I love bright colors, and there are so many amazing options to choose from as far as swim is concerned."
Keep scrolling to look back at some of her best swimwear moments, then shop the looks.
- Additional reporting by Samantha Sutton
10 Makeup Picks That Are Ready For 4th of July
Whether you're heading to the beach or munching on barbecue this Fourth of July weekend, we have picks that will have you looking good in red, white, and blue. You can go classic with a red lip, or get a little funky with a blue highlight. If you're not into bold makeup, we still have you covered. Consider painting your nails the color of the American flag or getting sun-kissed with a starry bronzer.
Get ready to don some sparkles, paint on your blue mascara, and show off your American pride.
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