Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 5 août 2017
Dior's Newest "Squeezable" Mascara Is Basically Falsies in a Tube
I am no stranger to Dior's iconic range of mascaras. After all, I consider myself a lash junkie, and the highly celebrated Diorshow formula has been a cult classic since 2002. But the brand's newest formula, Pump'N'Volume ($30), romanced me like no other in the company's mascara lineup . . . and I daresay it's the best one to date.
You see, this product has a completely genius tube that hasn't been seen before stateside. (Amore Pacific Korea won an award for this packaging in 2015.) It appears like your everyday Dior mascara at first glance, but it features a silicone tube that can be gently squeezed. This allows users to "pump" the formula into the molded brush, boosting volume in an already intensely voluminous formula. (The idea was actually inspired by makeup artists: many pros working on set warm makeup between - or on! - their hands to make the product smoother and easier to apply.)
Not only is the tube badass, the actual mascara is impossibly amazing. I am annoyingly picky about lash formulas and this one has earned itself a permanent place in my rotation. Diorshow fans already know that even the skimpiest of fringes can be transformed into a lush rainforest of lashes with the product, but this one is on another level. The brush grabs and coats every hair, defining them without clumping. The formula dries fully - unlike some brands that leave lashes feeling slightly sticky - but never makes your fringe feel stiff. This allows for lashes that are densely voluminous yet still fluttery, like a strip of falsies.
If you don't believe me yet, good news: I have photographic evidence that this mascara is the stuff of dreams. Keep reading for before and after shots, then grab your own tube.
Cereal Bagels Are the Breakfast Hybrid of Our Dreams - Cookie Crisp and Fruity Pebbles Included
Deciding what to have for breakfast can be a serious struggle, but thanks to an awesome bagel shop in Staten Island, NY, the only decision we have to make is how many bagels are too many bagels. Bagels r Us took last year's rainbow bagel craze and transformed the madness to combine our two favorite breakfast staples: sugary cereals and savory bagels.
With flavors like Cocoa Puffs, Cap'n Crunch, Lucky Charms, Cookie Crisp, and Fruity Pebbles, plus cream cheese flavors to match each of the bagels, the pairing possibilities are endless. They make the bagels by mixing the cereal into the bagel dough and cook it to perfection. One Facebook user described the breakfast experience as, "I felt as though I was in bagel heaven," and lucky for us, she wasn't dreaming.
Read on to see some of the most hunger-inducing cereal bagel combinations on social media, and make sure to get your own magical breakfast hybrid when you're in the area.
A Definitive, Ongoing List of All the People the Trump Administration Has Parted Ways With So Far
Six months into the Trump presidency, one fact has become incredibly clear: the former Apprentice star has no plans to stop saying "you're fired!" anytime soon.
Shakeups in the White House are to be expected with any new administration (especially after the opposing party has held office for eight years), but the tumult at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is starting to feel a whole lot less like strategic planning and a whole lot more like a Survivor
-style reality show. In the month of July alone, four big-name staffers were sent packing. Countless others were put on notice, like Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price, whom Donald Trump threatened in front of an audience of Boy Scouts, saying that if Price were to fail to get an Obamacare repeal through the Senate, the secretary would be told, "Tom, you're fired."
While attempting to guess who will come next on Trump's hit list is a rather futile endeavor - here's looking at you, Jeff Sessions, Jared Kushner, and Robert Mueller - what we will do is take a moment to pour one out for those who have already fallen victim to the ever-moving Trump train, both those who have been fired outright as well as those who claim to have left of their own volition. And be sure to check back here regularly, as we'll be making sure to update this page as and when the next staffer makes his or her exit.
16 Scoop-Back Swimsuits That Will Convince You to Give the Trend a Try
This year is full of Instagram-worthy swimsuit trends. Like the Baywatch-inspired high-leg swimsuit, the scoop-back one-piece is another trend from the '90s that has made a major comeback. Whether you choose a swimsuit that has a fun quote like "Go Coconuts" on the front or a scallop-trimmed design, there are plenty of ways to give this trend a try. Ahead, you can find a carefully curated selection of 16 styles that will fulfill all of your Summer needs.
Some of the Hottest Guys on Game of Thrones Happen to Be Dead
On Game of Thrones, Westeros is rife with drama, blood, and, yes, snow - but there's also a pretty healthy handful of eye candy under all that fur and leather. But because of all the aforementioned drama, a lot of those hotties end up six feet under. Let's look back at the sexiest dead guys from Game of Thrones IRL - may they rest in peace.
I Started Baking With Silpats, and Here's Why I'll Never Go Back
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
Until about a year ago, I had never heard of the word "Silpat." I'm not exactly a Great British Baking Show contender, but I do love whipping up a batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies from time to time. And now I can't believe I ever went a day without a Silpat, aka the nonstick baking mat made of fiberglass mesh and food-grade silicone that won't let anything - anything - stick to it.
This is a Silpat ($30 at Williams Sonoma; sold at most cookware stores). The popular product, which has a loyal following, is made in France and has been around since the late 1960s. What makes it such a game changer is that it eliminates the need for nonstick spray, butter, or parchment paper, and it's reusable and will last years (two to three thousand uses, according to the brand). You place it directly on a baking sheet and put cookie dough, biscuits, garlic herb baked pretzels (pictured below), scones, or anything else you want to bake right on top of it. Some of them even come with different shapes, like the outline of a cookie, for perfect placement.
Image Source: Jelly Toast
A Silpat can withstand oven temperatures up to 480°F, and the mesh material allows for evenly distributed baking. When your food is done and has cooled, it lifts right off the mat with no stuck-on residue. The best part? There's zero mess on your sheet pan, and you simply have to give it a quick rinse. When I'm done with my Silpats, I wash, dry, and store them (you can store them flat or rolled up like a poster), and rejoice in the fact that my baking cleanup was a little easier than it was in my pre-Silpat days. I have two Silpats in my kitchen, and although I cook a lot more often than I bake, I look forward to trying out easy baking recipes that give me an excuse to bust them out.
20 Things You've Been Doing Wrong in the Kitchen Your Entire Life
Are you scrambling eggs, making chocolate chip cookies, and measuring pasta the right way? It might not seem obvious, but there are plenty of basic things you could be doing the "wrong" way in the kitchen. These 20 hacks will make you a serious cooking pro if you're not already. Keep reading to learn every cooking shortcut and tip that will save you time, stress, and sanity in the kitchen.
10 Times Home Depot Finds Looked Straight Out of a Magazine
We all think of Home Depot when it comes to home improvement projects, but did you know you can head to this store when looking to turn up the style in your home? With an impressive offering of reasonably priced decor and DIY supplies galore, this megastore is a shopping staple of many top design bloggers. Want proof? Check out 10 times Home Depot finds looked straight out of a magazine ahead.
The Completely Addictive Method For Grilling Burgers
I've grilled many burgers in my day, many of which were decent but none of which were restaurant-quality - that is, until I learned this technique from America's Test Kitchen. It's by far the most foolproof way to grill a burger with a charred exterior and juicy pink interior. Try it for your next cookout, and prepare for everyone to ask for the secret!
These Recipes Are the Ultimate Excuse to Buy an Airfryer
Airfryers are a hot-button kitchen appliance, and for good reason. Using hot air instead of oil, these magical egg-shaped tools gave us all the flavor of a deep fryer without the grotesque amounts of fat, meaning we can indulge in fried food without as much guilt. If you don't already have one of these, these mouthwatering recipes will make you want to get your hands on one ASAP.
The White Sand at This Gorgeous Australian Beach Never Gets Hot!
Even some of the most pristine beaches around the world share a flaw of scorching-hot sand in the Summer. There is an exception on the Whitsunday Islands in Queensland, Australia, however, and that's the gorgeous Whitehaven Beach. In addition to its turquoise Coral Sea waters and picturesque landscape, this beach is composed of 98 percent silica, making it even more unique. The white, powder-like sand doesn't retain heat as a result, which means it stays cool even during the hottest part of the day. No more running to the water from your towel and back to avoid burning feet!
Visitors can reach Whitehaven via boat or a short helicopter or seaplane flight. The majority of travelers only make it to the ends of the beach's four-and-half-mile stretch, but the Hill Inlet (the northern end) is absolutely worth seeing. A swirl of blues that make up the inland river system are unlike any other beach you've seen. You've got to see the photos ahead!
ColourPop and Kathleen Lights Are Working on Something Secretive
ColourPop Cosmetics and Kathleen Lights have collaborated on a number of affordable products and coveted collections. It should be no surprise then, that the blogger - née Kathleen Fuentes - is teaming up with the brand yet again. Exactly what the two parties are working on, however, remains a mystery.
On July 30, Kathleen shared a picture of herself with ColourPop's Marketing Manager, Jordynn Wynn. In her caption, Kathleen said the two were on set shooting some footage for her eponymous nail polish line. Jordynn also shared some behind-the-scenes shots from their meeting on Instagram Stories.
After Kathleen shared some shots from her mysterious shoot - later resurfaced by a ColourPop fan account - rumors quickly began circulating. That same day, Kathleen even took to Twitter to disprove a rumor that ColourPop had actually been manufacturing her nail polish.
I'm LOLing so hard at the comments of people who think Colourpop makes my polishes Lolololllol I promise you guys they don't.
- Kathleen Fuentes (@KathleenLights1) July 30, 2017
Though no additional details have been confirmed, fans are obviously speculating about what might be in the works. Many think that Jordynn will simply be making an appearance in a KL Polish campaign. Others are wondering about the actual monkey that made an appearance in the shoot to climb all over Jordynn's head. Could it be a possible clue? While we're still feeling left in the dark on this one, we will continue to update this post as the mystery unfolds.
Get a First Look at the Actresses Playing Anna and Elsa in Broadway's Frozen Musical
We've known Frozen was being adapted as a Broadway musical for a while now, but we finally got our first look at the highly anticipated production on Monday. The musical won't hit NYC's St. James Theatre until next Spring, so in the meantime, the cast and crew are testing the waters at the Buell Theatre in the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for the next seven weeks. Patti Murin, who's appeared in Broadway's Xanadu and Nerds, will play Anna, while Wicked alum Caissie Levy takes on the role of ice queen Elsa. They'll have plenty more songs to sing than the ones in the movie, too, since songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez have written a bunch of new music for the Broadway adaptation (get ready for more Olaf, you guys).
Get a First Look at the Actresses Playing Anna and Elsa in Broadway's Frozen Musical
We've known Frozen was being adapted as a Broadway musical for a while now, but we finally got our first look at the highly anticipated production on Monday. The musical won't hit NYC's St. James Theatre until next Spring, so in the meantime, the cast and crew are testing the waters at the Buell Theatre in the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for the next seven weeks. Patti Murin, who's appeared in Broadway's Xanadu and Nerds, will play Anna, while Wicked alum Caissie Levy takes on the role of ice queen Elsa. They'll have plenty more songs to sing than the ones in the movie, too, since songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez have written a bunch of new music for the Broadway adaptation (get ready for more Olaf, you guys).
Matthew Lawrence Has One of His Brothers to Thank For His Romance With Cheryl Burke
Cheryl Burke and Matthew Lawrence have certainly had a whirlwind romance. The actor first met the Dancing With the Stars pro when his brother Joey was competing on the show during season three. They started dating in February 2007 and were in a year-long relationship before calling it quits in February 2008. After nearly a decade apart, though, the former flames reignited their relationship earlier this year. Aside from the handful of sweet appearances they made on the red carpet in the early 2000s, the two haven't shied away from posting about each other on social media since getting back together. See some of their best moments over the years ahead.
Why 1 Mom Called Out a Sephora Employee After Shopping With Her Self-Conscious Teen Daughter
Even the most seasoned beauty pro can feel a little intimidated by the product-packed wonderland that is Sephora. Add insecurities into that mix, and what should be a simple shopping trip can be a seriously stressful one. A mom in Windsor, Ontario, took to Spotted In to share how a recent visit to Sephora could have gone that way for her self-conscious teen daughter, but the mother-daughter duo left the store with renewed confidence.
"My daughter is 15 years old is having a very hard time with her self-esteem," explained the mother, who disclosed that her child is being bullied for her appearance - including her hair, skin, and eyebrows - at school. "It breaks my heart to say that this bullying has convinced my beautiful daughter that she is ugly, and her formerly outgoing and peppy personality has dimmed."
In order to help her feel more comfortable at school, this mom (reluctantly) took her on a trip to Sephora to buy a few beauty products. "I was against this at first, but if there was a possibility of it boosting her confidence, I decided it would be alright," she said. After a bit of browsing, the two were approached by a petite blond sales associate, Shayna - someone who looks like the girl's bullies in school - who asked if she could provide any assistance.
"Both myself and my daughter sometimes feel intimidated in this store," the mother admitted. "The girls are often made up beautifully, they exude confidence . . . for someone new to makeup, or someone with pre-existing self-esteem issues, it's easy to feel somehow inferior, regardless of their sunny disposition," she said. "This time, I was blown away."
Not only did Shayna help them shop, but according to this one happy mom, she went above and beyond the duties of the average sales associate by making her daughter feel comfortable and confident. "She pointed out the areas that my daughter has been most insecure about lately . . . and expressed how beautiful she thought they were," gushed the mother. "SERIOUSLY girl, are you psychic???"
She went on, "They talked about what had been going on at school, self-confidence, what truly makes a person beautiful, and how makeup is just something to enhance your natural beauty. These are things I've been trying unsuccessfully to convey."
While not everyone can expect to experience such a heartwarming moment during their next visit to Sephora, it inspires us to know that there are sales associates at the beauty retailer that are incredibly helpful, especially in young women's times of need. Read the heartwarming post below in full.
Kiehl's Is Coming to Sephora - Here's Exactly What You Should Buy
Get ready to add to your Sephora Loves list, because cult apothecary label Kiehl's is expanding to Sephora.com. If you felt a tingling in your face while reading that sentence, don't worry, that's just your skin doing a little happy dance at the news.
Kiehl's was founded in 1851 in an East Village storefront that catered to its mostly immigrant neighborhood with herbal remedies. In the 166 years since then, the brand has grown into a global fan favorite with the release of beloved products like Creme de Corps, Ultra Facial Creme, and Creamy Eye Treatment.
Famous Kiehl's addicts include Selena Gomez, who prepped for her 2016 Met Gala appearance with the label's Daily Reviving Concentrate (more about that later).
So although the brand has been around for more than a century and a half, this new partnership shows that it's never been a better time to buy Kiehl's products. It's also never been easier! Along with being sold on Sephora.com, the line will extend to four brick and mortar Sephora stores (San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, and Santa Monica) this Fall.
Read on for the best Kiehl's products to shop at Sephora.
If You Always Run to the Bathroom at the Worst Time During Movies, You Need This App
Image Source: StockSnap / Felix Mooneeram
There's always that struggle of needing to go to the bathroom during a movie but not wanting to miss the best scenes. I personally experience this problem as a frequent movie-goer, so I know not to drink anything before a lengthy film. But when I go to theaters that serve food and alcohol, it's not like I'm not going to enjoy myself. But that also means having to pee every 20 minutes and missing several crucial scenes, like I did during the Power Rangers reboot.
After the movie (which was great by the way, despite what others may have told you), I realized that I missed some key moments when I couldn't figure out what a friend was referencing. Dammit, I was peeing then. And that's when he told me to download the RunPee app, a free app dedicated to telling you which times during a movie are ideal for a bathroom break. That means no more returning to rolling credits or missing the juiciest parts!
The RunPee team goes to the earliest showing possible (usually the Thursday night on opening day), so the app is always up to date. If no one is available to attend, the times will be posted by 2 p.m. (PST) on that Friday at the latest. And sometimes if it's a popular blockbuster, they'll even have that information up before the release date.
How does it work?
Each movie includes several "recommended peetimes" with the exact quote to cue you, as well as an approximate time window to let you know how long you have. If you tap the clock icon near the top right corner, you can set a timer as soon as the movie begins. You'll be notified with a vibration when it's time to go! To avoid receiving false alarms from texts, it's suggested that you put your phone on airplane mode so that the app is the only alert you get.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Yi
The user even includes a brief and usually humorous reason for they selected that particular slot for you. It's pretty freaking cool!
IHOP Just Released 3 New French-Toasted Doughnuts, and We'll Take a Dozen of Each
After releasing its savory cheeseburger omelet earlier this year, IHOP has unveiled a sweet new menu addition that's sure to give you a much-needed a.m. sugar rush. The kings of all-day breakfast just debuted three limited-edition French-Toasted Doughnuts, and they look insanely delectable. This epic mashup of breakfast favorites comes in three crave-inducing flavors that'll make your sweet tooth do a happy dance: Bacon and Maple, Apple Fritter, and Strawberries and Cream. I mean, it's totally acceptable to eat all three in one sitting, right? Talk about the breakfast of champions!
Each doughnut is first dipped in sweet vanilla batter, then dipped in french toast batter and finished with one of the three tasty toppings. They're now available at select IHOP restaurants, but only for a limited time! Run, don't walk, to try them before it's too late, and in the meantime, read on to catch an up-close glimpse at each of these scrumptious menu additions.
21 Sexy Shoes Selena Gomez Has in Her Closet - and You Should, Too
When Selena Gomez steps out in a sexy look, sometimes it's hard to know where to look first. Well, we suggest you look down (all the way down) and admire her shoes.
The singer and actress, who just made her return to the studio after a short hiatus in 2016, might have the hottest shoe collection in Hollywood. Through the past few years, we've seen her expertly pair dainty and embellished sandals with high-slit dresses that'll show off their details, go on stage with chunky boots that allow her to dance, and hit the streets of Paris and New York in classic pumps we should all have in our arsenal. To steal Selena's impeccable sense of shoe style, scroll ahead. These 17 heels are what you should be buying.
75 Brilliant Gift Ideas For Kickass Working Women
If you're looking for a gift idea as brilliant as the kickass working woman in your life, take a card out of her book: don't settle for anything less than the best. Her excellent taste (and upwardly mobile career) proves why she's a total boss, and you can nail the perfect present if you pay close attention to our list of ideas. She'll adore these office supplies that speak her language, accessories that show everybody who's boss, and handy tools for tackling her to-do list. Happy shopping!
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A Rarely Seen Look at How Princess Diana Decorated Her Private Palace Quarters
Diana was famous for her fashion choices, but her taste in home decor is a little less well-known. When she first moved into Apartments 8 and 9 at Kensington Palace as a new bride, she was just 20 years old and she had three floors of rooms to decorate in the style of her choosing. However, the revamp had to suit the 17th century building as well as blend with the priceless antiques and oil paintings already displayed in the rooms. Diana turned to her mother for help, and she recommended her interior designer, Dudley Poplak, who worked with Diana to create a suite of rooms that combined traditional royal gravitas with Diana's fresh, fun, and feminine style. Take an up close look ahead.
Prosecco Flavored Doughnuts Are Here to Satisfy Your Wine-Loving Hearts!
2017 has been the year of the Prosecco. The Italian white wine has become a popular favorite among millennials, possibly due to its millennial pink hue, or it could just be its rich, sweet grape flavor. Either way, the geniuses over at Ruffino Wines have teamed up with The Doughnut Project to bring us Prosecco flavored Doughnuts and we're 100 percent here for it.
According to Delish, the wine-glazed doughnuts are adorned with edible pink and white pearls, gold leaf flakes, and gorgeous pink glitter so your Instagram feeds will be the one to envy - if you're lucky enough snag one up before they're all sold out. The Instagrammable dessert officially goes on sale from August 14th through the 20th at The Doughnut Project's West Village location in NYC to celebrate National Prosecco Day.
If that weren't enough for your wine-loving hearts, they're priced at just $4.25 so we can all cheers to that! Read on to see another photo of the Prosecco doughnuts that will make your heart flutter ahead.
These 29 Parenting Hacks Are Serious Game Changers For 2017
Sometimes being a parent feels like an endless whirlwind of meltdowns mixed with tears. And even though many moms vowed to start 2017 off right and to have the most productive year yet, this resolution may feel completely unattainable as the weeks pass. But thankfully, these 29 parenting tricks are total game changers (think of the time you could save!) and will leave you wondering how you've made it this far without them.
The 15 Cutest Sweaters From ASOS Will Get You So Excited For Fall
The fact that it's still Summer isn't stopping us from getting pumped for Fall fashion. ASOS just released a ton of new sweaters, and we can't wait to slip into them when the air gets crisp. The British retailer is offering both vibrant and neutral colors as well as loose and form-fitting silhouettes. You need one for every autumnal look, so you might as well stock up on a few. Peek at our favorites.
The Ultimate Guide to Denim Shorts by Body Type
While you might have a drawer full of denim cutoffs, there's one pair that's better than all the rest. They lift your booty and emphasize your curves, and whenever you wear them, the compliments roll in. Why? These cutoffs were made for your body type, even if you slashed and distressed them yourself.
But if you're not sure what style of shorts should be your go-to, we've got the answer. Whether you're long and lean, petite with toned legs, or curvy, there's a silhouette that will flatter your butt, make for the best foundation to your outfit, and ultimately give you a major confidence boost. And when it comes to finding the right jeans, that's what's most important. Read on for the basics, or jump ahead to your body type.
10 Instant Pot Hacks I Learned From Its Very Active Facebook Community
What can you make in an Instant Pot? The truth is, just about anything, including one-pot pastas, "fried" rice, and even "roasted" potatoes. I seriously love my Instant Pot, and what has fueled my obsession is the Instant Pot Community on Facebook. A group of over 500K Instant Pot owners swaps tips and recipes on a public forum, including answering panicked questions in real time for newbies and old-timers alike. I'm always amazed by the endless knowledge this group shares. With each scan, I come away with new uses for my Instant Pot. Here are 10 hacks I recently learned from my beloved IPC.
Fight Off Those Night Sweats With These 9 Sheet Sets
If you're a chronic night sweater or end up bundled up in your sheets until you start sweating, we may have found a solution for you. Simply switching out your bedding and finding the perfect sheets can change the way you sleep. Using naturally made materials like linen, cotton, or threads made of bamboo can actually help you regulate your body temperature as you catch some zzz's.
Although we love those luxe high-thread counts, they are much thicker and are not as breathable. We recommend using a thread count between 200 to 400 to stay cool. We searched for some chilling sheets to save you from the rising temperatures - check out our tops picks.
We Can't Get Over These 18 Hidden Gems We Found at H&M Home
The popularity of the H&M Home collection continues to rise. Not only is it affordable, but everything H&M makes is always on trend. So if you're looking to redecorate on a budget, don't feel like you have to sacrifice getting cute and glamours items. From rugs to wall mirrors and even sheets, H&M has you covered. We searched through some of its newest products and found the best.
Flip Out! 13 Pancake Recipes to Get Excited About
There are plenty of reasons Americans care so passionately for pancakes. First off, pancakes scream Saturday morning. It's a chance to leisurely whip up some batter and hover over the stove to monitor the bubbling stacks. Secondly, few things feel as glorious as flipping a pancake with precision. In addition, I think we all can agree that maple syrup deserves an honorable mention. Pancakes are sometimes just a vehicle for consuming generous gobs of maple syrup. And lastly, we love the versatility of the humble pancake. It's completely appropriate to mix everything from nuts to fruits to our favorite candies into the batter - and these 13 pancakes prove just that.
These Are the Best Chocolates You Should Be Buying at Whole Foods Right Now
Whole Foods stocks a whole hell of a lot of really delicious chocolates, in case you weren't aware. Many of the brands in the store use the highest quality of ingredients, which make for a delicious treat any time of day. The various candies have a whole host of ingredients in them, whether it's ginger, coconut, or even habanero salt. As a lover of all things chocolate, I've slowly eaten my way through pretty much everything Whole Foods has to offer, and these are the 12 candies you should be grabbing from the candy aisle on your next trip to the store. Trust me.
9 Ways to Travel With Zero Plans When You're an Overplanner
"Winging it" is a foreign an obscene concept to an overplanner. Showing up to a place you've never set foot in when you've scraped together that precious time off work and saved all your pennies with zero plans in place? Insert anxiety here. I should know, on account of the fact that I am one. As a regular traveler and overplanner, I can often be found creating more stress for myself than necessary. Like most humans, I have a major case of FOMO that shines through even more when it comes to travel. I don't want to miss out on anything in the epic locations I'm exploring. In fact, I'd like to know each option, every nook and cranny, and plot out as much as possible to maximize my time in seeing ALL. THE. THINGS; please and thank you.
What if I couldn't find a place to sleep? What if I whizzed right past a rare gem of a place and was none the wiser? What if I had walked just a touch further and found an even tastier restaurant? What if, what if! These are just a sampling of the lovely thoughts constantly darting around my noggin. I mean, we all agree that it's great to have a back-up plan, obviously. And learning the ins and outs of a destination to maximize your experience sounds reasonably reasonable, in theory. But, as smart as it feels to plan your trip to the Nth degree, it can actually hinder your overall travel takeaway.
Overplanning closes you off to opportunities that spontaneous travel will potentially give you.
Making a conscious change happens differently for everyone, and for me, it happened because I was exhausted. Nearing the end of a five-month jaunt to 17 countries, I was tired, tired of overplanning and researching. So, I showed up to New Zealand, my last big stop, for a two-week road trip around the South Island with only the first night in a hotel and a car rental booked. I did everything else on a whim and it was a whole new way of absorbing a place that I hadn't truly allowed myself to do yet. It was a bit like skinny-dipping. Hesitant at first, but then liberating and enjoyable once you dive in.
Go on a trip with zero plans? Sounds like a cruel joke to us overplanners, one that is enough to fuel our nightmares for the next month. But it could actually be a good thing, if we let it. Life-changing, even. Although it's a constant work in progress, these smattering of two cents tips on relinquishing control in a manageable way are a good jumping-off point. If all else fails, we can start an overplanners anonymous group.
1. Let go.
This is likely the most difficult aspect. Control feels like a luxurious security blanket, but with travel things can still go wrong, and they will. We should take a page from Frozen's book and just "let it go." Easier said than done, Elsa. In all seriousness, giving up that need to control will loosen up some tension in the long run. Keeping an open mind will open you up to experiences you can't read about on review sites and will ultimately end up being your most meaningful memories.
2. Prioritize.
We can't just quit our overplanning ways cold turkey. Make a list. Prioritize what you absolutely must do/see/eat on your trip, and then leave the rest up to the travel gods and spontaneity. Limiting yourself is the key here. Top 583,295 priorities sounds reasonable, right?
3. Balance.
Although there's a time and place for everything, it's all about balance. I mean, you don't want to show up to Santorini, Greece in August with no place to stay booked in advance. It's the high season and a popular destination. But you could show up and not have done hours of research or planned an itinerary and get recommendations from the locals, which is a more authentic way to travel anyhow.
4. Break the cycle.
You have to take the first steps in breaking the habit of overplanning by, well, not overplanning. So the next time you find yourself elbow deep on TripAdvisor, walk away. Then come back and rip up that second-by-second itinerary that you've photocopied for all parties in your group into a million pieces. And highlighted. And laminated. Then burn it.
5. Timing.
Timing does not always, if rarely, line up perfectly, in travel and in life. No matter what Google Maps says for driving distances, it certainly didn't factor in the herd of sheep blocking the main road in Norway. Or the Italian train taking a midday siesta for no apparent reason other than it's Summer. Or that the restaurant you had your heart set on for the perfect dinner actually closed on Mondays.
6. Perfection.
It doesn't exist. Besides an overplanner, I'm also a self-proclaimed perfectionist. Adorable, right? We tend to obsess over making everything "just so" and pore over review sites researching the best of the best for our ventures. We have too many choices at our disposal in general, and as overplanners, we have a fear of making the wrong decision. Researching, the little unassuming demon that it is, becomes addicting. We think if we just look into it a little more, read a few thousand more sites, there has to be something better. Stop trying to constantly find the unequivocal best, and just pull the trigger already. Be savage and decide in the moment even.
7. Test it out.
Take your newly minimal-planner bad self out for a test drive on a smaller trip. Working your way up to it will be less of a shock to your system. Swallow your panic that the trip will be a disaster, leaving you sitting in your hotel room without a clue as to what to do, so you might as well do nothing, and push yourself and you'll see how freeing it feels. You may not ever want to go back to your previous ways.
8. Be present.
I am 100 percent guilty of this and something I struggle to focus on when I travel. I find myself getting so caught up in the next thing and planning for my next move that I'm not actually taking in the moment I'm living in real time. This might be the most golden of benefits from not overplanning. If you want to stay longer somewhere, you can, or if a location is a bust, you can leave. You won't be tied to your pretrip planning decisions you made before arriving, and you'll thank yourself after for being so smart. You want to remember the essence of a place, not the essence of your stress figuring it all out.
9. Roll with the punches.
With travel things will, undeniably at some point, not be smooth sailing. Take a risk. It's all well and good to say "just go with the flow!" but the reality is, that's not super easy to do when you're in an unfamiliar place and things go wonky. You've just missed the last bus, you don't have access to a WiFi connection, and it just started raining . . . hard. Oh, and this morning's breakfast burrito is staging an all-out revolt in your stomach with no bathroom in sight. I may or may not be speaking from experience, but these things really happen, and it's easy to get overwhelmed. The trick is to tackle each issue at a time, and although I'm not telling you how to live your life, I highly suggest attending to the most latter problem first. Just sayin'.
Mom's Message After Overhearing a Parent at Chick-Fil-A Talk About Her Boy With Disabilities
After a potentially painful and uncomfortable encounter, Leah Carroll has a message to the mom-of-three who was at Chick-fil-A with her three kids. Leah wants this fellow parent to know that she overheard the questions, saw the stares, and was blown away by her response.
"I sensed your panic when your 5-year-old son pointed at my son in his wheelchair and shouted, 'Mom look at THAT boy!'' Leah shared on Love What Matters Facebook page. "You leaned forward and quietly told him and his 3-year-old brother that we don't say things like that and they shouldn't point or stare."
Leah waited because she knew in most cases, telling a child not to stare or question her child's differences doesn't work because young, curious minds have questions that they want answered. "When you realized your whispers weren't working I saw the panic disappear and you took a deep breath and took a step of courage," she wrote. "You brought your boys over to Malachi and said 'I bet he would like to know your names!'"
Leah explained that as they said their names to Malachi, her child started grinning and chatting with the kids and that this interaction was more important than this amazing mom could've realized.
The joy on his face brought tears to my eyes- he loves kids his age but so many are fearful to come and speak to him. Your boys continued to ask questions about his foot braces, his wheelchair, why his legs don't work, why he holds his mouth open like that.
You took the time to educate your sons in that moment and help them understand that different is okay. Different is not something to fear. And that it was okay to ask questions! Thank you for giving my son a chance to meet your kids.
Thank you for being the type of mom who educates your children instead of frantically trying to silence them. Special needs moms have to develop tough skin - we get used to stares, comments, and whispers. Please know it takes a lot to offend us, particularly when the comments are coming from young children. Give your kids the same grace we give them and use the opportunity to teach them about differences.
So Chick-Fil-A mom, thank you for raising your children to embrace children like Malachi. And thank you for giving my son something to smile about."
Grey's Anatomy Season 14 Is Shaping Up to Be Pretty Dramatic
Even though it feels like we just witnessed the season 13 finale of Grey's Anatomy, it's never too soon to look ahead. In the wake of everything that has happened, it's clear there are plenty of planted seeds that will surely bloom once the show returns in the Fall. Granted, Stephanie will no longer be with us, but with a few new faces, a couple of new flames, and that trademark drama we've always loved, there's plenty to look forward to. There isn't too much available information about the 14th season of Grey's, but we do have a few things figured out.
1. Owen's Sister Is Going to Cause All Kinds of Disruption
Owen's sister is alive! At the very end of the finale, Owen reconnects with his long-lost sibling, Megan. This could cause all kind of upheaval. It will certainly change Owen's entire life. Then there's Riggs, who was in love with Megan before she vanished. The timing is terrible: Meredith has just opened herself up romantically to Riggs, and now she risks losing him. Will Megan and Riggs be able to pick up where they left off?
There's also a chance Megan will join the ranks at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Once she recovers from the years of trauma, obviously. But if she does end up on the hospital staff, it'll be interesting to see what kind of ripple effect it has on everyone else.
2. Jackson and Maggie Might Get Together
And by "might" we mean "almost definitely." By the time the finale rolled around, the show had been dropping hints that Maggie and Jackson would pair up. Even in the last episode, April tells Maggie that she's pretty sure Jackson has feelings for her. The question is, will either of them act on it? Call us crazy, but we're still holding out hope for Japril.
3. Arizona Might Be Broken-Hearted All Over Again
Now that Minnick has been fired, there's a strong chance she's leaving Seattle. It seems like Arizona is about to have another wound to tend to - unless, for some strange reason, Minnick sticks around. We'll admit, we didn't exactly love Minnick, but it was nice to see Arizona happy!
4. We Probably Haven't Heard the Last of Jo's Husband
The storyline with Jo's husband, Paul Stadler (played by Glee's Matthew Morrison), has only heated more and more since we first found out. At the end of the season, Alex meets him in person but fails to follow through with any actual action. The thing is, the show wouldn't have put a face to the name unless we're going meet him again, and now we know for sure that he's returning. Morrison confirmed the news during an interview with The Argonaut in August, noting that he has "a big role" in the upcoming season.
5. Is There Hope For Owen and Amelia?
We caught a glimmer of love remaining between Owen and Amelia near the end of season 13 when they embrace and cry it out together in the elevator. Is there a chance Amelia is coming around? Could Owen's sister have softened his hard shell? It's absolutely possible.
6. The Schedule Is Just the Same as Always
ABC has already released the Fall TV lineup for 2017, and Grey's will continue to dominate the Thursday night spot.
7. The Premiere Date
The show has almost always kicked off the season near the end of September, so it should come as no surprise that the premiere date has been set for Sept. 28.
Grey's Anatomy Season 14 Is Shaping Up to Be Pretty Dramatic
Even though it feels like we just witnessed the season 13 finale of Grey's Anatomy, it's never too soon to look ahead. In the wake of everything that has happened, it's clear there are plenty of planted seeds that will surely bloom once the show returns in the Fall. Granted, Stephanie will no longer be with us, but with a few new faces, a couple of new flames, and that trademark drama we've always loved, there's plenty to look forward to. There isn't too much available information about the 14th season of Grey's, but we do have a few things figured out.
1. Owen's Sister Is Going to Cause All Kinds of Disruption
Owen's sister is alive! At the very end of the finale, Owen reconnects with his long-lost sibling, Megan. This could cause all kind of upheaval. It will certainly change Owen's entire life. Then there's Riggs, who was in love with Megan before she vanished. The timing is terrible: Meredith has just opened herself up romantically to Riggs, and now she risks losing him. Will Megan and Riggs be able to pick up where they left off?
There's also a chance Megan will join the ranks at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Once she recovers from the years of trauma, obviously. But if she does end up on the hospital staff, it'll be interesting to see what kind of ripple effect it has on everyone else.
2. Jackson and Maggie Might Get Together
And by "might" we mean "almost definitely." By the time the finale rolled around, the show had been dropping hints that Maggie and Jackson would pair up. Even in the last episode, April tells Maggie that she's pretty sure Jackson has feelings for her. The question is, will either of them act on it? Call us crazy, but we're still holding out hope for Japril.
3. Arizona Might Be Broken-Hearted All Over Again
Now that Minnick has been fired, there's a strong chance she's leaving Seattle. It seems like Arizona is about to have another wound to tend to - unless, for some strange reason, Minnick sticks around. We'll admit, we didn't exactly love Minnick, but it was nice to see Arizona happy!
4. We Probably Haven't Heard the Last of Jo's Husband
The storyline with Jo's husband, Paul Stadler (played by Glee's Matthew Morrison), has only heated more and more since we first found out. At the end of the season, Alex meets him in person but fails to follow through with any actual action. The thing is, the show wouldn't have put a face to the name unless we're going meet him again, and now we know for sure that he's returning. Morrison confirmed the news during an interview with The Argonaut in August, noting that he has "a big role" in the upcoming season.
5. Is There Hope For Owen and Amelia?
We caught a glimmer of love remaining between Owen and Amelia near the end of season 13 when they embrace and cry it out together in the elevator. Is there a chance Amelia is coming around? Could Owen's sister have softened his hard shell? It's absolutely possible.
6. The Schedule Is Just the Same as Always
ABC has already released the Fall TV lineup for 2017, and Grey's will continue to dominate the Thursday night spot.
7. The Premiere Date
The show has almost always kicked off the season near the end of September, so it should come as no surprise that the premiere date has been set for Sept. 28.
Jason Momoa and Emilia Clarke's Cutest Friendship Moments
Jason Momoa's Game of Thrones character, Khal Drogo, hasn't been on the show since the end of season one, but he's still very much . . . around. In addition to Khal still holding a special place in the heart of his onscreen wife, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), Jason and the actress are also good friends in real life. When they're not hitting red carpets together or casually hanging out away from the spotlight, Jason is usually posting something about "the moon of my life" on Instagram, frequently sharing screenshots of Emilia kicking ass on the show. While their Game of Thrones romance was a bit controversial, there is not one thing about their adorable real-life friendship that we don't love.
Things I Am Scared of Now That I'm a Parent
I used to consider myself a brave person. I wasn't jumping out of planes or scaling Mount Everest, but I loved visiting new locales and trying new things. And then I had kids. And in that instant, everything changed.
Now, I find myself scared of EVERYTHING! Every story on the news, every weird post shared by my friends on Facebook, every bugbite, every fall, I'm a nervous wreck. Here are just a few things that top my fear list these days:
- That my kids miss me during the day.
- That they don't miss me.
- That they're not eating enough.
- That I'll get sick.
- That they'll get sick.
- That they'll see the news.
- The big C. Every story I read of a mom battling cancer has me doing a breast exam and having a spot checked.
- School shootings.
- Friends who are bad influences.
- Wayward baseballs that can land in that one spot on their chest that causes instant death.
- That the decisions we are making for our kids aren't right.
- That we're too strict with our kids.
- That we're too lenient.
- That the video games they're playing are rotting their brains.
- That they're not happy.
The list could go on forever. I'm sure it is all just part of parenthood - this whole "wondering if I'm doing it right" mentality. Before we had kids, if we screwed something up, it was really just our lives that were affected. Sure, we had to suffer the consequences, but we got what we deserved. When you have children, your decisions directly affect their lives. And that's a scary thought. Every decision we make inversely affects them.
There are mountains of books out there telling us how to raise our kids right, but what about the things we can't protect them from? The school shooters and the so-called friends who spend more time bringing them down than raising them up? No one ever said this parenthood thing would be easy, but I didn't expect the hardest part to be all this worrying.
When my first son was a mere few hours old, I remember looking up at my dad and saying I was worried that the baby wasn't breathing correctly. My dad grinned and said, "Welcome to being a parent and all the worrying that comes with it." I smiled and said, "For the next 18 years, right?" He chuckled and said, "No, Bec, for the rest of your life." I'm only nine years into it, but I can honestly say wiser words have never been spoken.
23 Wedding Dress Pictures You'll Regret Not Taking
If you're like most of the brides we know, searching for the perfect dress was (or is) time-consuming, wonderful, and just a tad stressful. Since you're only going to be wearing it once, make the most of your big day by taking all kinds of photos. While you're working on a shot list to hand over to your photographer, be sure to spend time drafting up scenarios and events that'll show your dress from the best angles possible. To help, we've rounded up some gorgeous pics to inspire you, including detail shots and pretty lighting you might not have thought of yet (and don't miss our shot list for stunning hair- and makeup-focused pictures!).
Seeking more wedding inspiration? Check out ideas for your bridesmaids dresses, what to wear for your engagement photos, and even how to capture the best shots of your rings.
10 Fascinating Facts About Flip or Flop Atlanta Stars Ken and Anita
We were thrilled by the news that HGTV was launching an Atlanta version of their addictive Flip or Flop franchise, so when we got the chance to interview show stars Ken and Anita Corsini, we jumped at it. Here's everything POPSUGAR learned from chatting with these adorable real estate pros.
Even Before She Was a Princess, Kate Middleton's Homes Were Practically Palaces
Kate Middleton has traveled extensively for her current role as Duchess of Cambridge, but even before she became a member of the royal family, she was afforded a lifestyle that allowed her to live in beautiful places. From the time she was born in Berkshire, England, in 1982, Kate has resided in cozy brick country homes, stately school housing, and even the former living quarters of the princesses before her.
Kate, William, and their two kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, are reportedly moving back to Kensington Palace full-time this year - which hopefully means more inside glimpses of their digs to come. Keep reading to see all of the homes Kate has lived in over the years, from a modest Victorian to a pristine palace.
16 Times Ree Drummond Gave Us Ranch-Life Goals
If you're not familiar with Ree Drummond (also known as The Pioneer Woman), you soon will be. Over the past few years, she's been making huge waves in the lifestyle industry, inspiring people to ditch the city hustle and embrace the pioneer way of life. Her magazine, The Pioneer Woman, debuted in June of this year, and her mercantile shop is a huge hit featuring home goods, clothing, books, food, and everything else you need to make your ranch-life goals come true. If you want even more reasons to envy Ree and consider a switch to country living, just check out her Instagram for beautifully styled shots featuring sunsets, animals, and the open country!
Flight Attendants Reveal the Most Annoying Thing You Can Order on a Plane
You might think that one of the most popular refreshments would be the easiest for flight attendants to grab - they'll have lots on hand and endless practice pouring it. However, it turns out that although a refreshing glass of Diet Coke is a one-ingredient drink to prep, it's possibly the most annoying think you can order on a plane.
In a 2013 post on the flight attendant blog These Gold Wings that has since gone viral, an anonymous flight attendant named Jet explained why pouring a can of Diet Coke is more difficult for the airline crew to serve you.
"As you may know, the aircraft cabin is not pressurized to sea level, but rather to the equivalent of about seven or eight thousand feet. This means some passengers might feel a little lightheaded or that alcohol affects them almost twice as much as it would on the ground. It also means soft drinks foam up a lot more when poured out of a can. The worst culprit for this is Diet Coke. I literally have to sit and wait for the bubbles to fall before I can continue pouring. If all three passengers ask for diet coke I'll often get them started, take another three drink orders, serve those, and then finish the diet cokes. As the infomercials say, 'There's GOT to be a better way!'"
Heather Poole, an American Airlines flight attendant, shared this sentiment with The HuffPost UK as well in her book, Cruising Attitude: Tales of Crashpads, Crew Drama and Crazy Passengers at 35,000 Feet. "[Diet Coke is] the most annoying beverage a flight attendant can pour for a passenger in flight, because in the time it takes us to fill one cup, we could have served an entire row of passengers," Heather wrote. "I've actually had nightmares about frantically trying to finish a never ending Diet Coke beverage service before landing."
A spokeswoman for Coke told HuffPost UK that the extra ice enhances the extra bubbles but declined to explain why the altitude affects this beverage differently than the brand's other products. "The amount of bubbles across different sparkling beverages is related to the specific recipe versus the altitude in which they are poured," the spokesperson said. "Generally, when sparkling beverages are poured at room temperature from a can and over ice, the fizz is increased."
This Victoria's Secret Model Wore a Magical Convertible Gown For Her Italian Wedding
Put any bride in a Zuhair Murad wedding dress and she's bound to look magical. Victoria's Secret model Vita Sidorkina surely did when she slipped into her dreamy long-sleeved lace gown. The model got married on the Amalfi Coast, and for her big day, chose a creation that was both classic and modest.
The high-neck style and sleeves even reminded us of Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen wedding dress, though Vita's design featured a small, sexy cutout right above the bodice. The poufy number flowed as she walked out of Ravello Cathedral.
Once at the reception, the model made a quick change. Vita removed the bottom portion of her train to reveal a long column lace dress underneath. While many brides have one, two, or even three outfit changes, Vita strategically tweaked her wedding dress, wasting no time at all. It's a reminder that your bridal gown can double as the perfect reception dress. Read ahead to see more from this model's beautiful Italian wedding.
Here's the Exact Coffee-to-Water Ratio For the Best-Tasting Cup
Ever notice that sometimes the coffee you make at home tastes better on certain days than others? That's likely because the coffee-to-water ratio could be off. Although it's tempting to just add a few scoops of the grinds into the filter and then pour water until it seems like a good amount, paying close attention to the measurements is important for brewing the best-tasting coffee. The good news is there's an explicit formula that coffee experts tend to agree on, and it will eliminate any guessing games you have about the correct amount of coffee and water.
One to two tablespoons ground coffee for every six ounces of water.
That's the coffee-to-water ratio that you should follow when you're making drip coffee in your coffee pot at home. Depending on how strong you like your coffee, you can choose one or two tablespoons based on your taste preference; bonus points if you grind your own coffee (freshly ground always tastes better than packaged).
If you add too much water and not enough coffee, you'll end up with watered-down-tasting coffee that won't exactly satisfy your needs in the morning. Without enough water, the coffee could end up tasting too bitter and the flavor profile will be off. As long as you grab a measuring cup and a tablespoon, you'll be on your way to the best home-brewed coffee of your life.
12 Things You Don't Know About Giada De Laurentiis
As a certified Italian-food addict and Food Network enthusiast, I've been a fan of Giada De Laurentiis since I started watching Everyday Italian years ago. If you're like me, you know that the chef has five-star Italian recipes, a very charismatic on-camera presence, and an adorable daughter named Jade. But there's a lot you probably didn't know, like the fact that she was discovered after her family was featured in a Food & Wine article. Intrigued? Read on to learn 12 facts you didn't know about the ultrasuccessful Italian guru.
How to Navigate Pronouns in an Increasingly Gender Fluid World
Whether intentional or not, the way we speak is political.
I'm not talking about saying out loud who we voted for or what we think about health care - I'm talking about something far more basic: how we address other people. Do you default to the casual "guys" or the more old-fashioned "folks"? When speaking with a grown woman, do you ever refer to her as a "girl"? With a queer person, do you ever say "Hey, girl!" in solidarity of your shared love (actual or, worse, assumed) of RuPaul's Drag Race?
If you answered "yes" to any of those things, you haven't necessarily done anything wrong; you've just wandered into the increasingly concerning world of gendered language in an society that is becoming less and less gendered. Everywhere we look, the very idea of gender is being questioned in fundamental ways: Washington DC is granting nonbinary drivers licenses. The Tube in London is shifting to gender-neutral announcements. Target has recently announced nongendered kids clothing. Vogue confused the meaning of gender fluidity, even if it was in a well-meaning attempt to honor such notions. The good news? This is a problem with very actionable solutions.
Why Is the English Language So Gendered Anyway?
Celeste Mora knows this struggle around language and gender very well. As Grammarly's head of social media and community, she is constantly fielding questions about dos and don'ts regarding gendered language from those seeking answers to questions they may never have considered before. What are the proper ways to use the singular they? Which gender-neutral words are best to use? Are there more formal neutral pronouns?
The answers aren't that obvious and, unfortunately, English doesn't naturally lend itself to nonbinary ways of speaking. "English has a disadvantage," Mora told POPSUGAR. "We don't have a lot of gender-neutral options that sound good."
As Mora explained, this is based in English's "romantic-language roots," which makes our shift from binary to nonbinary so difficult compared to other languages. Take Turkish, Hungarian, Finnish, Persian, and more: those languages are relatively genderless.
The limited nature of the English language is exactly where frustrations form for persons who don't fit into the gender binary of cisgender males or females. C Mandler runs into this frustration frequently as a nonbinary transgender person who uses they/them/their pronouns. "The original way words were used were definitely patriarchal and cis and straight, developed by white men who wanted to create a standard of speaking," Mandler explained to POPSUGAR. "But the beauty of language is that it does have the capacity to change."
Mandler, a GLAAD campus ambassador, sees the singular "they" as a perfect fit for their identity as a person who lives "homonormatively." Moreover, they find a comfort in "they" being an everyday word. "It's already a commonplace word," Mandler said. "For all the people who say 'they/them isn't singular,' we use it all the time colloquially." An example of this is in situations when an unknown person leaves something behind. You would say something to the effect of, "I don't know who left their stuff. Hopefully they pick it up."
Cassy Olson, who is nonbinary identifying, often takes to YouTube to share their thoughts on the matter on YouTube. "People tend to be afraid of the unknown and things they aren't used to," Olson told POPSUGAR. "Pronouns, while a very small thing in our language, provide a sense of comfort and security for those who need it."
Yet, due to our understandings of the English language, less common pronouns tend frazzle some minds. Dr. Lee Airton - Assistant Professor of Gender and Sexuality Studies in Education at Queen's University and founder of both They Is My Pronoun and the No Big Deal Campaign - finds this may be the result of people needing to think a little more before they speak or write. "You're making people think about something they ordinarily do not think about, and that is difficult," Airton said, before remarking that assigning pronouns and making these decisions are natural for all of us until it made known. At that point, it's seen as requiring "extra effort" in speaking. "That's very disorienting for folks," they added.
How Can You Avoid Using the Wrong Pronouns?
University of Sheffield philosophy Professor Jennifer Saul explores the intersection of feminism and how we speak and how society's operating male-first effects linguistically hurts us all. When we default to using male pronouns and terms, it necessarily excludes women from the conversation. "It does seem that people are more likely to picture a man when they encounter a term[s] like this," Saul told POPSUGAR. "Women are less likely to picture themselves in the role discussed. It's not hard to see how this could have damaging effects in something like a job ad."
"Some words carry clear derogatory meanings with them," Saul added. A good example of a charged word girl - it's an appropriate term for a female-identified child but potentially insulting or derogatory to lob at an adult women or an LGBT person. "Some members of the groups referred to use these terms affectionately and insist that this is OK," Saul said. "But . . . this sort of reappropriation is something that you have be a member of the group to do." (Even then, it might still rub other members of the same identity group wrong.)
So how does one proceed in speaking about and to people in a sympathetic, supportive way? Simply seek to be polite and as inclusive possible.
Those we spoke with for this story agreed that the singular "they" is always safe to use. "It's a gender-neutral pronoun that comes completely naturally to speakers of English," Saul said. "Think about a sentence like 'When a student arrives, they should pick up a handout.' It just rolls off the tongue and doesn't feel the slightest bit awkward."
Moreover, "they" has recently earned even more legitimacy as a pronoun; AP added the pronoun to its Stylebook earlier this year. The pronoun is favored by some transgender, nonbinary, and genderqueer persons but is only one of a handful of neutral pronouns, words like per, ve, xe, ze, (f)ae, and more can also be used. While it's easy to default to "they," one can never be too sure of a person's preferences. And if you're not sure? It's usually OK to just ask.
Dr. Airton echoed this, noting why asking is so important and why this can be so weird for some. "It's important to respect identities," Airton said. "These little interactions are about so much more than pronouns; they're about people feeling awkward and trying to recover. A lot of this stuff is about face-saving or feeling like you're in control."
When addressing groups, the matter can get much more complicated and, in some ways, undeniably fusty. "Things like folks - although that sounds 1955 - is good," Grammarly's Mora said. "I say 'humans,' which may not seem popular, but 'peeps' and 'people' are good too." Despite the awkwardness of these words, Mora insisted that the more we use them, the less weird they will sound.
Another gender-neutral elephant in the room when addressing groups is our favorite term, "guys." It's a difficult word to stay away from but, unfortunately, is loaded. "I would think before deploying 'guys' at will," Mora said. "The same with 'ladies.' Maybe think about it before you use it at random."
"It can be very hard to stop using some of these terms," Saul said. "I myself find the use of 'guys' for mixed-gender or even all-women groups almost irresistible and automatic, even though I try not to do it."
Along with "guys," there is a myriad of words that are both too informal and too specific. For Mora, those range from generic classifiers - like "girl," "boy," "dude," and "lady" - in addition to anything taxonomized by gender, specifically career-related. "Businessman, fireman, policeman, stuff that ends in 'man,'" Mora said. "Those are probably better to err on the side of gender-neutral alternatives. It's likely if you're writing that word, you don't know the person well because you're writing about someone you don't know."
Why Does It Even Matter? Because Respecting Other People - Like Their Pronouns - Matters
Reconsidering how we address each other in relationship to identities is a big deal, one certainly tied to politics. When linguistically tricky situations arise, both Mora and Saul agree that being aware that something is problematic is a great first step toward change.
As Saul said, instead of shaming someone who uses the wrong pronoun to address you or someone else, address it as a growing problem to be aware of. "We should be aware that this sort of usage is something that people of goodwill slip into," Saul said. "If we're going to point it out, we should point it out as a culture-wide issue not an individual failing."
When a #transgender person corrects you about their #pronoun, it can be a sign that we want to keep hanging out. A hopeful gesture.
- Lee Airton, Ph.D. (@LeeAirton) April 23, 2017
This is a sentiment everyone can agree on. Airton believes thinking this way indicates work being done - but that doesn't mean someone is off the hook, particularly if someone makes a correction. "Exercise compassion," Airton said of situations where corrections - or even explosions - happen. "Do your level best to not take it personally. I also call on my fellow trans people to have compassion as much as they can. . . . Recognize a good-faith mistake vs. intentional misgendering."
Starting at 310 Pounds, Melissa Lost 90 With Surgery and the Rest With This Diet
If you're considering weight-loss surgery, Melissa Jurado's inspiring story will help you decide whether it's right for you. But surgery wasn't the magic cure! It helped her drop the first 90 pounds, but it took hard work and determination to lose the rest.
Melissa: Before
POPSUGAR: When did you start your weight-loss journey? What made you decide to?
Melissa Jurado: I started my journey in February 2015. I was in such a bad place. My weight and health were in bad shape, and so was my mind. I knew they were connected. I knew I needed to change.
PS: What was your starting weight? How much weight have you lost so far?
MJ: My starting weight was 310 pounds. I have lost 152 pounds and gained a whole new life.
PS: How did you do it? Did you have a special diet or exercise routine?
MJ: I had bariatric surgery in February 2015. The first year, I lost 90 pounds. It was amazing what that boost of weight loss did for me. It ignited a passion inside me I never knew existed. After my first year, I changed to a low-carb diet and transitioned to eating keto in March 2017. Being 300 pounds, I could barely walk on the treadmill. Now I exercise every day. Every workout is a celebration of my body. I do yoga, Spinning, and weightlifting. I am probably the happiest looking person at the gym.
Melissa: After
PS: Can you explain what "VSG/Lifestyle/Keto" means on your Insta profile?
MJ: It stands for the way I achieved and maintain my weight loss. "VSG" means vertical sleeve gastrectomy - it's the procedure I had. It is the safest of the weight-loss surgeries. The size of your stomach is reduced by 80 percent, but you still have a fully functioning stomach. "Lifestyle" meaning lifestyle changes to tackle the behaviors associated with my weight. And "keto" is the way I am nourishing my body. It is a diet that is high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carb.
PS: What are some nonscale victories you've experienced?
MJ: I could list a million nonscale victories. My favorites have to be wearing a little black dress and heels (an outfit that I never knew could be so empowering), fitting in a restaurant booth, and being able to keep up with my kids (who are 18, 13, and 10).
PS: How do you stay motivated?
MJ: Motivation is something that fades in and out, especially when progress is slow or at a stop. I count on my good friend "discipline" to carry me though until I can kick it up again. Looking back at old pictures is more than enough motivation to keep pushing myself.
PS: What does a typical day of meals look like for you now?
MJ: I start my morning with coffee. Many don't know this, but while I sip my coffee, I recite positive affirmations. I am a busy mom and working woman. Oftentimes the only mindful moments I get are when I drink my coffee. After my coffee, I will typically have an egg omelet. I love eggs!! Snacks are typical low-carb foods like deli meat and cheese. And lunches and dinners are always some protein and veggies with an added healthy fat. Being on keto, healthy fats are important for my energy.
PS: Any advice or tips for people on their own journey?
MJ: If you find yourself lost or just starting, take a blank sheet of paper and draw your ideal self. What are you wearing? How do you feel? What do you think about? What do you do for fun? Now go live like that person. Be that person. Transform yourself!
Although I have done it with ease, it does not mean this journey is easy. You have to lose the fear and find the courage to be seen. As a fat person, you hide from the world. There is nothing wrong with being seen. Show yourself and work hard! Show up and show out!
Here's How to Whiten Your Teeth Naturally
Chances are high you have all the ingredients you need to whiten your teeth at home. Skip the store-bought whitening strips and opt for one of these natural methods for brightening your smile.
Badass Woman's Response to the Man Who Fat-Shamed Her For Running in a Sports Bra
Kelly Roberts wasn't always a runner or confident in her body's strength. Despite being called hippo in school, Kelly never thought she was overweight - just "unconventionally skinny."
However, after her younger brother unexpectedly passed from acute alcohol poisoning at 16 years old, Kelly quickly gained over 75 pounds and realized that instead of extreme diets, she needed to focus on getting healthy. "I'd look at before and after pictures and feel a tidal wave of shame and regret because I knew that I'd never get my life back," Kelly told POPSUGAR. "I felt so ashamed and exposed. It took another three months before I decided to fight for my life back."
Kelly began running, and her first mile gradually progressed to her first race, where her joke of "hottie hunting" and taking selfies at each mile marker went viral. Behind the Run, Selfie, Repeat posts , her messages of facing your fears and pushing yourself not only resonated with other women but also began to inspire them. "It really wasn't until three years after I started running that I actually realized how warped my body image was, and I launched the #SportsBraSquad because I was tired of looking in the mirror and feeling ashamed of the body staring back at me," Kelly said.
Through this social-media movement, Kelly is encouraging her followers to embrace their bodies' strength and proudly work out in their sports bras. "Despite the fact that I ran a marathon in three hours and 41 minutes as a 160 pound US size 10 female, I never saw women who looked like me being portrayed as strong," she said. "I know I'm strong as hell because I worked my ass off to get to that finish line."
Yet, some people completely miss her empowering message and instead feel the need to shame Kelly for her body. "Every week, I field comments and emails from men (always men) shaming me or policing my weight," she said. "If you could see my inbox and some of the emails I get, you'd want to light things on fire."
Kelly decided to share on Instagram a particularly cruel (and unnecessary) message she's received along with her badass response to shed light on the horrible things that men feel entitled to say to women and to also inspire those who are hearing them. "I'm curious why you don't simply have the discipline to go on a diet and lose the excess fat you have?" the stranger wrote in an email, with "Dieting" as the subject. "Instead, you rather literally run away from your problems and act like losing a family member is the harshest thing on earth … Help me out here, what am I missing about this?"
If Kelly had read something like this before she put in the time to build her confidence, she believes this stranger's words that said everything she used to tell herself would've destroyed her. Instead, she had an incredible response for him and everyone else to see:
Dear man who found it appropriate to send me this email,
Once upon a time, your words would have cut me like valyrian steel. Today? They remind me how important it is to change the way we see strength. Because what you call fat, I know can run a marathon in 3 hours in 41 minutes. I hope one day you can obtain the strength I've worked tirelessly for. Until then, know that I will spend the rest of my life empowering the women you hope to shame.
Kelly now knows that strength doesn't look a certain way and hopes that more people start to see it too. She learned that in order to be strong, part of the battle includes finding a physical activity you feel motivated to do, not focusing your workouts around just losing weight, and eating healthy. However, another key component of strength is building your self-confidence to see beauty when you look in the mirror. "But, if any of these guys ever wanted proof, I'd be happy to kick their ass during a marathon," she said.
The Don't-Expect-to-Walk-Tomorrow Leg Workout
Strong legs are in! Not just because they look hot in shorts and leggings, but because they help you feel more badass on a long run, while pushing up a hill in your SoulCycle class, or when doing thrusters during your CrossFit WOD. This squat and lunge workout has a jumping element, known as plyometrics, which not only makes the exercises harder but also adds a little cardio in there too.
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