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.
lundi 7 août 2017
This CrossFit Workout May Sound Insane, but It's Totally Doable
Burpees aren't fun - we know this. But they work the entire body, and that's one of the reasons CrossFit coach and competitor Dani Horan of Champlain Valley CrossFit is suggesting this simple yet grueling workout.
The Workout: Complete 100 burpees as quickly as you can.
Here's how to do a basic burpee:
- From standing, lower into a crouching squat with your hands on the floor.
- Do a squat thrust by jumping your feet back, simultaneously bending the elbows behind you, touching your chest to the floor.
- As you jump the feet forward to the hands, straighten the arms and come back to into a squat.
- Do an explosive jump straight up, getting as much height as you can.
Yep, that's it. One hundred burpees all at once. You'll get a total-body workout in about 10 minutes, and it's an awesome way to get your heart rate up. But what makes this workout the definition of CrossFit is that it's mostly mental. Yeah, your arms and legs might get tired from burpee after burpee (after burpee!), but mostly it's your mind that will keep saying it wants to stop.
It's great for those training for a race or a fitness competition to practice pushing yourself no matter what and believing you can do it. And though it may not be that fun, you're going to feel so proud once you get to the last one!
If doing this total-body move is tough for you, here are four moves you can do to build up to a burpee. If this many burpees at one time seems completely crazy, here's a four-week workout plan to build up to 100 burpees. And if you love burpees and want more, try this burpee challenge that involves five different variations of burpees.
15 Things You Didn't Know About Flip or Flop's Tarek and Christina
Tarek and Christina El Moussa gained fame with their wildly popular HGTV house-flipping series, Flip or Flop. The show follows along as Tarek and Christina buy distressed homes at discount prices, manage a renovation, and then stage the home in the hopes of selling it at a major profit. After seven successful seasons and seven years of marriage, the couple shocked fans last December when they announced plans to separate. While it looks like Tarek and Christina plan to finish filming season 8 of Flip or Flop, it's too early to tell whether a ninth season will ever happen. For fans who are eagerly awaiting the season eight premiere, here are some fascinating facts about the hosts that you likely didn't know.
Game of Thrones: Everything You Should Know About Valyrian Steel Weapons and Who Owns Them
During Sunday night's insane episode of Game of Thrones, Arya Stark acquires a very important new weapon from her brother Bran. The dagger, which has a distinctly curved hilt made from dragonbone, is significant for a number of reasons: it's the same weapon an assassin used when trying to kill Bran back in season one (which ended up basically starting the War of the Five Kings), it was recently spotted by Samwell Tarly in an ancient Citadel textbook, and it's also made from extremely rare Valyrian steel.
Quick recap: what is Valyrian steel? Valyrian steel is a very special material from which the best weapons in Westeros are forged (the material is rumored to have been created from dragon fire and magic). The weapons made from this material are sharper, lighter, and stronger in comparison to even the best castle-forged steel, and they can also withstand extreme heat (obviously). Not to mention, Valyrian steel is one of the few things besides dragonglass that can kill White Walkers. Valyrian blades are treated as treasured heirlooms, and each weapon has its own name and story.
Sadly, these weapons are near impossible to forge in present-day Westeros; however, in post-Red Wedding season three, we see Tywin Lannister melt down Ice (the greatsword of House Stark) into two smaller swords. So, where in the world of Westeros are these Valyrian steel weapons now? Luckily they're (mostly) in good hands.
Game of Thrones: This Is Why Jon Snow Hates Theon Greyjoy
Game of Thrones season seven is all about the reunions - Sansa and Bran, Tyrion and Jon, Arya and Sansa - but not all reunions are happy ones. In "The Spoils of War," Theon returns to Dragonstone only to find Jon is staying at Daenerys's home base as well. These two men had been raised as brothers, but they've never had a good relationship. They are both outsiders in the Stark family: Jon because he is a bastard, and Theon because he's technically Ned Stark's hostage for most of his life. Even though Ned raises the Greyjoy ward as one of his own children, Theon is being held as collateral to keep his father in line. Despite their differences, Theon and Jon could always agree on their love of Robb, and that's one of the reasons their reunion is so intense. Theon has given Jon plenty of reasons to hate him, but his betrayal of the Stark family is the greatest source of contention between them.
The last time Theon and Jon see each other before the War of the Five Kings breaks out is when Jon is leaving for the Wall. At that point, Theon is left as Robb's greatest ally, but shortly after the war begins, he returns to his home of Pyke for the first time since he was a boy. It's there that Theon makes a terrible mistake that changes the course of his life, and the lives of the Stark children, forever. He chooses to take Winterfell in hopes of winning his father's approval, and in the process he turns his back on Robb, someone he considers a brother.
Shortly after he takes the castle, Theon claims to have murdered Bran and Rickon. We later learn he actually kills two farm boys instead, but the damage is done. Robb and Jon believe their little brothers have been killed, and ultimately, Bran and Rickon have to flee Winterfell. This sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to Rickon's death, the Boltons taking control of the Starks' home, and Ramsay marrying and raping Sansa. Had Theon remained loyal to Robb and the family that he grew up with, there is an excellent chance that Robb may have won the war. At the very least, Winterfell and the younger Stark boys would have been safe.
The king in the North holds Theon responsible for much of the pain and loss his family has experienced since he left for the Wall. The truth is, Jon blames himself too. From the moment Sam and his other Night's Watch brothers make him turn back for the Wall instead of riding home in season one, Jon makes a choice to keep his oath. And that oath prevents him from helping Robb secure the North or removing Theon from Winterfell.
This complicated mix of emotions all boils over when Jon sees Theon again at Dragonstone. He tells Theon that the only reason he's not killing him is because of what he did for Sansa. Theon regrets ever betraying the Starks more than Jon can know. Since he makes his choice, he goes through hell. Ramsay turns him into Reek with a combination of physical and mental abuse no person should ever have to suffer. The lingering effects of what Ramsay does to Theon still haunt him. He is a broken man, but despite everything, he finds a way to shake Ramsay's control enough to help Sansa flee from the mad man. Without Theon's help, Sansa's escape from Winterfell may never have happened. His act of bravery saves Sansa's life, and even though it can't erase all of the other mistakes Theon makes, it does mean Jon is indebted to him for freeing his sister.
Saving Sansa is a small moment of redemption for Theon, and it's one that leads Jon to spare his life. But the resentment the king in the North feels for Theon Greyjoy is unlikely to ever go away, and no amount of apologies could ever make Jon forgive him for the damage he has done to the Stark family.
19 Storage Solutions So Chic You Won’t Believe They’re From Ikea
Ikea has long been who we've thought of for inexpensive storage options for the closet, garage, or attic. But thanks to a recent reinvigoration from designer, style guru, and all-around home/life philosopher Ilse Crawford, Ikea now offers storage solutions so chic you'll be proud to bring them out of the closet.
The best storage options can be repurposed at different points in your life - changing with you as your needs change. So look for items that can do double duty, or items that could work in more than one room: living and bedroom, or bath and kitchen. The 19 Ikea products that follow feature organic materials, simple but elegant design, and an earth-oriented color palette.
American Girl's Hugely Successful Body Book For Girls Now Has a Male Counterpart
Earlier this year, American Girl went viral following its announcement of Logan Everett, the first-ever male American Girl doll. Although both girls and boys alike couldn't wait to get their hands on Logan, American Girl has taken a further stab at reaching a male audience in particular with a new book - based on the highly successful The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book For Girls - called Guy Stuff: The Body Book For Boys.
The book, which is available in stores and online Aug. 8, seeks to help boys ages 8 and up prepare for the changes their bodies will go through - acne, pubic and facial hair, voice cracking - and gives them tips, pointers, and insight into handling everything from body odor and emotions to peer pressure and bullying in an age-appropriate and practical manner. Guy Stuff aims to empower young boys to take control over their health in having open conversations with their parents and other trusted adults, something that was very important to the book's author, Dr. Cara Natterson.
"Boys go through puberty, too."
"Parents have written to me for years, asking for the boy version of The Care and Keeping of You," said Natterson, the author of Guy Stuff and mom to a 14-year-old girl and a 12-year-old boy. "And while we've done a good job of educating girls on puberty and their changing bodies, boys have been left behind on this topic - and that's simply not fair. Boys go through puberty, too, and they deserve the same information that girls get about how to grow up in a safe and healthy way. It's time we change the social norms and start including boys in discussions about puberty, health, and wellness, beyond what may or may not be taught in the classroom once or twice a year."
Natterson hopes that Guy Stuff will be a starting point in beginning important conversations between parents and their sons because health and wellness is such a huge topic. "The goal of The Care and Keeping of You and Guy Stuff is to provide good, basic information that kids and parents can use to engage in great conversations. By the way, there is no such thing as 'The Talk.' If you plan to only discuss puberty once through 'The Talk,' your kids are unlikely to hear it. Parents should aim to have many conversations over several years, slowly covering a lot of ground. And the silver lining is that it takes the pressure off parents who stress about one big 'Talk.'"
When asked how Guy Stuff differs from The Care and Keeping of You, Natterson said though the tone and voice in this latest release are a bit more unique, so much of the content is the same. "Boys and girls both inhabit growing bodies that need to be cared for in similar ways," she said. "The physical management of life during puberty isn't a boy thing or a girl thing; it's a human thing . . . by and large, much of the information is similar because kids deserve this information regardless of their gender."
Ahead, see a sneak peek at some of the book's pages, and pick up a copy of your own on Aug. 8.
Mom's Message to the Woman Who Judged Her Postpartum Body at Target
When Kelly Howland was shopping at Target with her "obviously fresh" newborn, a stranger approached. The woman began chatting about how cute her little one is and asking how old she is. But after their harmless banter, Kelly explained that this person completely crossed the line.
"I'm a brand new postpartum mom," Kelly wrote on Facebook, explaining that there was no way this woman didn't realize that she had very recently given birth. "And then she asks The Question: 'Have you heard of It Works before?' I tell her that I know what it is but I've never utilized it. She proceeds with artificial shock and surprise and gives me her card and her spiel."
It Works is a skin and nutrition company that sells products they promise "will change your life," but for this new mom, her life is pretty great and the last thing she wanted was a stranger at Target implying that she needed to do something about the way she looks. "Listen. I'm not upset this company exists. And I'm not even upset at this woman because she could be absolutely charming and just trying to hustle her own living and I have respect for a woman with guts to do that," she wrote. "But let's not pretend that approaching me specifically was a coincidence."
As Kelly explained, it's not like this stranger approached every woman that she came across at Target and it wasn't a coincidence that she tried to sell her these products.
But she did come to me - with my baby billboard of being brand new postpartum. We all know that this culture hammers into postpartum women a lot of physical insecurity about their bodies after delivering their miracles from their wombs. I don't think I have to spell out for a single woman the cultural pressure that postpartum mothers face regarding their physical appearance. We know. We all know. She knew. And that's why she approached me.
Instead of perpetuating this pressure, Kelly is pleading others to stop with the impossible expectations that she believes are keeping insecurities alive in new moms regarding their postpartum bodies. "Instead of leaning into superficial ideals imposed upon us, can we PLEASE start bucking the system and instead start praising each other for being the amazing, life giving, creation birthing vessels that we are?" she wrote. "Can we just offer each other adoration of the amazing things that we've accomplished and see our physical changes as marks of phenomenal accomplishment that only our sex has the privilege of experiencing?"
To the woman who approached her and anyone else who thinks that she should be embarrassed instead proud of the ways her body has changed, Kelly has an important message: "My body doesn't need to be wrapped or squeezed or changed. It needs to be valued and revered for the incredible life it just brought into this world. THAT is beauty and THAT is all it needs."
Teen Is Shamed For Having "Too Much Food" in Her Lunchbox
Once a child is in high school, it's fair to assume that they're making quite a few of their own decisions when it comes to the food they're putting into their bodies - even though they're probably not always going to be the healthiest decisions. However, one teen who is making what most people would agree are fairly healthy decisions was shamed by her school for having "too much food" in her lunchbox.
Her mom, who goes by "LemonDrizzleDisco" on Mumsnet, shared with other users that her daughter's high school started screening the students' lunchboxes, and that her child - who is a vegan - was told she's packing too much food. "[My daughter's] secondary school has started checking all the packed lunches," the mom wrote. "I know lots of secondary school students eat sweets and chocolate, etc. on the way to school, but surely at that age It's their choice."
However, rather than sweets, soda, or junk food, her daughter had a fairly healthy lunch packed that day: a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on wheat bread, a small banana, strawberries, a few grapes, and less than a handful of dried coconut flakes and raisins.
"The canteen serves things like sausages and mash, cake and custard, sandwiches, and doughnuts, etc," she wrote. "[Am I being unreasonable] to think this is unfair?" The mom also wrote in a comment on her own post that her daughter "got told off for having a few pieces of sliced up avocado because it's 'unhealthy.'"
Most commenters on the thread seem to agree that the school is being a little ridiculous and hypocritical, considering their offerings for lunches. "That sounds insane," one commenter wrote. "That sort of behavior is more likely to do harm than good, isn't it?" Another user was specifically concerned with the avocado-shaming: "I would have an issue with someone teaching my child that avocado is unhealthy. For f*ck's sake."
The frustrated mom says she's definitely going to send a "strongly-worded note" to the school on her daughter's behalf. "[My daughter] is nowhere near overweight, and even if she was, surely it's not up to the form tutor to be telling her she has too much lunch in front of the class," she wrote. She then shared in a comment the aforementioned note she would send to the school.
Unless you are able to provide the nutritional information of school dinners or an alternative to avocado, for [my daughter] who is vegan, I will not be changing what she has for lunch. I would appreciate if you do not make comments on [her] healthy lunch because telling a teenage girl that she has "too much" lunch is far from healthy.
Let's Be Real, the Dothraki Were the Best Part of That Game of Thrones Episode
The following contains spoilers for Game of Thrones season seven.
There's a reason Robert Baratheon once said, "Only a fool would meet the Dothraki in an open field." The horse lords are some of the most fearsome warriors in the Game of Thrones universe, and they get to truly showcase their battle skills for the first time in season seven. Sure, there are dragons and giant crossbows and Daenerys shouting commands in High Valyrian, but let's be real . . . the horde of Dothraki warriors is easily the best part of episode four.
With Dothraki men leaping from their horses mid-gallop and totally owning the Lannister forces with their arakhs, the only thing missing from the epic battle scene is former leader of Daenerys's khalasar Khal Drogo. But we're positive he's looking down from the Night Lands in pride, watching his khaleesi command the troops from atop his own namesake dragon.
If your response to the Dothraki's battle scene was a mix of terror and arousal, have no fear: you're not alone in the slightest. Check out some of the most spot-on reactions to the Dothraki army, then read up on how Dany's fate might just include riding in the Night Lands with Drogo.
21 People Who Are Aroused by Daenerys Targaryen Saying "Dracarys!"
Sunday's Game of Thrones episode is being hailed as one of the best of season seven to date. It's not hard to see why; I mean, there's so much to go over between Jon and Dany's steamy cave scene, Sansa and Arya's epic reunion, and that amazing sword fight with Brienne. Oh, and, like, Daenerys's epic, scorching attack on the Lannisters. When Dany finally decides to take Drogon into battle, she brings back one of the most fiery words in all of Westeros: "Dracarys." Naturally, the internet wasn't able to cope with all the magnificence and reacted accordingly: with brilliant reaction GIFs, memes, and more.
9 Surprising Lessons I Learned by Giving Up Drinking While Pregnant
Last Thursday, I went two two different bars after work. Sure, happy-hour bar hopping is nothing special - except that I happen to be six months pregnant. OK, don't freak out. I didn't get wasted. Instead I sipped on a rotation of fresh fruit juice and sparkling water while I caught up with friends.
This experience will have a lasting effect on my relationship with alcohol.
While we could debate the one-glass-a-day exception endlessly, I've personally decided to abstain from alcohol completely during my pregnancy. Before I got pregnant, I just assumed I would go nine months without drinking. But it was also a source of anxiety. I wondered if being pregnant would banish me to almost a year of social isolation. Well it turns out, it didn't, and I believe this experience will have a lasting effect on my relationship with alcohol following pregnancy. After half a year of no booze, here are nine lessons I've learned.
You Don't Need Alcohol to Have Fun
Remember those grade-school sleepovers where you laughed so hard your stomach hurt? You didn't need any booze to have genuine fun. Being pregnant has brought me back to that place. Here's an example: during my pregnancy, I've attended a few weddings. At first I was bummed out about the timing. But it turns out that when you're dancing to a good DJ, you don't even have time to grab a drink. I thought I'd want to go home early, but instead I outlasted other guests, who burned out from the marathon of cocktails, wine, and Champagne toasts.
Most Drunk People Over 30 Aren't Actually Horrible
Drunk people are so annoying when you're sober, right? At least I remember feeling like that in college and my early 20s. Turns out that by the time you're over 30 (like me), most people have learned to handle their alcohol. I've rarely even noticed people are tipsy when I've been out with them. If I do, it's usually a subtle tell, like a slight slurring of words or uncharacteristically edgy comment. Instead of annoying me, it just makes me smile slyly to myself, knowing my friend is letting loose a bit.
Some People Don't Like Being Around Nondrinkers
While drunk people don't bother me, I can't say I don't bother some drunk people. I've noticed that when I'm out in a social setting where most people are drinking, my presence seems to make some of them uncomfortable. It can feel like you're a parent breaking up a high-school party, if people assume you're judging them for being drunk. Other times, you get the sense that they pity you or can't quite figure out what to talk about. I try to set the tone by acting like it's no big deal and saying how much I'm enjoy my mocktail if it comes up. And of course, many other drinkers could care less! I try to seek those people out.
Forgoing the First Drink Is the Worst Part
Whenever I hear a Champagne bottle pop, my heart sinks a little bit.
OK, so my new alcohol-free existence hasn't been perfect. Whenever I hear a Champagne bottle pop, my heart sinks a little bit knowing I won't get to partake in the fun. There have also been work happy hours or double dates where I know that first glass of wine would take the edge off. And I must admit, when friends decide to open a chilled bottle of rosé on a Summer day I feel left out. That's what I've missed the most: the festive feeling I've come to associate with that first drink.
Coming Home Completely Sober Is the Best Part
The feeling I get when I jump in an Uber to go home after dinner or (virgin) drinks out is my all-time favorite thing about not drinking. I'm in total control and not overanalyzing anything I said or starting to regret the hangover I'll have tomorrow. When I get home, I can even do something productive if I'm up for it! While I worried I'd be a hermit, the fact that I can go out with friends without feeling like crap the next day actually makes me want to make more plans.
You Shouldn't Underestimate the Power of Delicious Food
A delicious meal is my new glass of wine.
For the first three months of pregnancy, booze did not sound good to me - and neither did most food. So after a trimester of horrible nausea, just being able to crave and enjoy food brings me so much joy. Now, a delicious meal is my new glass of wine. Instead of feeling like something is missing because I can't drink, regaining my appetite after a few months has added a new pleasure back to my life.
There Are a Lot of Great Nonalcoholic Drinks
I have a soft spot for lemonade. It just makes me happy. Before I was pregnant, however, I wouldn't let myself order it regularly because I'd rather "save" the calories for a more adult beverage. Now that I'm pregnant, I can honestly say I look forward to my predinner lemonade just a much as I would a cocktail. And sometimes I'll venture out with other refreshing mocktails, which often come with a range of exotic ingredients, minus the booze. There's been a revolution in nonalcoholic beverages at restaurants and bars, and as a pregnant woman, I'm more than happy to reap the benefits.
Alcohol Is Expensive
It's a great feeling to go out to a nice dinner and not groan when the check comes thanks to the markup on the wine. It's like fine dining with a 50-percent-off coupon. Cutting out alcohol greatly reduces the cost of going out in general, as nonalcoholic drinks are a fraction of the cost.
I Should Probably Drink Less When I'm Not Pregnant
When I reintroduce alcohol back after giving birth, I hope I will be more moderate. By taking out alcohol completely, I've realized that what I really miss is the buzz of one or two drinks, not the crappy downsides of anything more than that. So I plan to have best of both worlds: one glass of wine and no headaches the next day.
10 Mind-Boggling Facts That You Probably Don't Know
There is so much we don't know, and a recent Reddit thread featuring the most mind-boggling facts just reminded us. Users contributed little-known facts about everything from outer space to crocodiles, and we chose 10 of the most surprising ones. Get ready to get schooled on things you'll probably never need to know unless you are on Jeopardy.
With 5 Simple Words, Mark Zuckerberg Says Everything That Needs to Be Said About Vaccines
Mark Zuckerberg stirred up a parenting debate, and it has nothing to do with Facebook privacy settings nor photos of breastfeeding moms. No, it has to do with a simple photo he posted about his then 1-month-old daughter, Max. Like so many new dads before him, Mark's been sharing his daughter's milestones on his Facebook page - her first quantum physics book, her first New Year's Eve, her first Star Wars pose - and her first round of vaccinations. A year ago, he posted a photo of Max bundled up and sitting on his lap at what was likely to be her pediatrician's office and wrote, "Doctor's visit - time for vaccines!"
With those five words, one of the world's richest and "most influential people" - he has 47 million followers - renewed the debate on vaccinations. More than 69,000 people commented on his post, with everything from congratulatory statements to posts calling him an "uneducated father" for doing so. But in reality, no one should be surprised by his decision to vaccinate his child. In Winter 2014-2015, when the debate on the subject was raging due to the Disneyland measles outbreak, Mark chose a book about immunizations for his "Year of Books" initiative. In choosing it, he wrote, "The science is completely clear: vaccinations work and are important for the health of everyone in our community."
My next book for A Year of Books is On Immunity by Eula Biss.Vaccination is an important and timely topic. The science...
Posted by Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Plus, his wife, Priscilla, is a pediatrician!
As a firm believer in the power and necessity of vaccines, I have to say bravo, Mark! We need more young leaders like you out there telling the truth about immunizations. Perhaps seeing an innovator who has turned the world upside down embrace vaccines so publicly will help people see the science through the fanfare.
As one parent wrote, "Thank you for doing what's right and also for showing everyone else that it's the right thing to do as well."
How to Get the Body of a Wonder Woman Warrior, Straight From One of the Film's Actresses
It's no secret that Wonder Woman is one of the hottest movies of the Summer. Not only have millions flocked to the theater to watch Diana Prince channel her inner warrior, but this action and adventure blockbuster features Hollywood heavyweights, as well as elite-level athletes, including martial artists, equestrians, a bobsledder, a heptathlete, and top CrossFit Games athlete Brooke Ence, who portrays Penthesilea, one of the Amazonian warriors from Themyscira.
In order to get battle-ready bods for the big screen, the athlete-actors who play many of the fierce warriors spent weeks in Europe prepping for their roles. Their days were spent training with heavy swords and spears, doing acrobatics while riding horses, and sweating it out with high-intensity strength and conditioning CrossFit-style workouts. And as a result, their broad shoulders, bulging biceps, thunder thighs, and built butts reveal how beautiful it is to be badass.
When she's not taking on larger-than-life movie roles, Ence is a top CrossFit Games athlete who lives and trains in Santa Cruz, CA. So, if you're looking to tone and tighten your booty, abs, and sculpted shoulders, Ence - who exercises up to five hours a day when training for a competition - shares her best-kept workout and diet secrets.
- Count Your Macros: While Ence has dabbled in Paleo and other popular diets in the past, she's found that counting her macros (carbs, protein, and fat grams) to achieve a high-carb, moderate-protein, low-fat diet helps her perform and feel her best.
- Eat Healthy Carbs: Since carbs are your muscle's primary fuel source, Ence says she feels her strongest when she has an optimal amount of carbs to fuel her training. Her go-to carbs include veggies, whole grains, quinoa, and corn tortillas, as well as other high-fiber grains. "I will do toast on rye or wheat dry or with peanut butter," she said. "And sometimes I buy gluten-free pasta and gnocchi to add with meats and veggies."
- Power-Up Meals: Ence always includes a high-quality protein as part of her main meals. Breakfast is often egg whites with veggies, bacon, and corn tortillas. Lunch and dinner is usually a Trifecta meal (chicken or beef) with veggies and brown rice, quinoa, or polenta. "Vegetables and meats are the majority of the food on my plate, and sometimes I will add some type of grain."
- Best Body Comp Advice: To achieve a leaner, more muscular body, Ence suggested focusing on fundamental strength-training exercises, such as front and back squats, pull-up progressions, bench presses, and overhead presses. To rev your metabolism and torch calories, try CrossFit or other types of intense, interval-based cardio workouts like 6 x 400 meter runs or 4 X 400 meter sprints on the rower. She also favors workouts "with odd objects - picking things up and moving them, like stones or pushing and pulling sleds."
- Splurge Often: And yes, Ence enjoys a few splurge-worthy foods from time to time. "I can't live without crunchy salted dark roasted peanut butter - I love it so much I have to hide it from myself! - and specialty coffee drinks, like cappuccino."
Why This Woman Wants You to Rethink Those "Begging" Gym Selfies ASAP
As Clare works both physically and mentally to love her body, she knows that she has absolutely nothing to be ashamed of and wants the world to see it. However, this 25-year-old also realizes that the conversation around "body positive exercise" needs to change.
This strong woman isn't afraid to show off her physique after a workout, but she wants others to reevaluate why they feel the need to create displays of body confidence at the gym. "Don't get me wrong, seeing women with bodies like mine – proud and sweaty and capable and strong – has been a profound (if not essential) component of my own journey through recovery," she wrote on Instagram with a photo that's been "liked" over 3,900 times.
However, when Clare stops to think about the gym selfies she's posted, it makes her see things differently. "I start to question the extent to which most of them are still stuck on 'performing' the act of 'health and fitness – putting my acts of physical activity on display as if I owe the world some sort of public record of my 'commitment to movement' in order to be considered valid," she wrote. "What this really is then is little more than an act of begging."
Clare knows that lifting up her shirt and showing the world her "unconventional body" is still active and healthy helps to demolish the stereotype that "fat bodies are lazy and undisciplined," however she wants to draw attention the other side to these photos. "In many ways, this action still REINFORCES the normative expectation that fat bodies NEED TO CONSTANTLY BE PROVING WHY THE WORLD SHOULD 'TOLERATE' US," she wrote.
No matter your body type, Clare wants to show what can happen unintentionally when people feel the need to socially flaunt their workouts. "[They are] attaching value to bodies that 'prioritize fitness' and thereby excluding those with disabilities and health conditions … from access to that same respect," she wrote. "It's worth interrogating these types of actions with a little more of a critical eye – keeping in mind that what we want is not acceptance into a culture that enslaves us, but the total eradication of that culture period."
Why Jon and Daenerys Should Stop Eye-Sexing and Just Get Together on Game of Thrones
After that sexy cave scene on this week's Game of Thrones, that feeling that rose up when Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen first laid eyes on each other totally intensified: that these two need to get together. Besides just the fact that he's hot, she's hot, and, oh, they're totally destined for one another, the showrunners also confirmed that it wasn't just your imagination that the cave was hotter than Drogon's breath. During episode four's Inside the Episode clip, David Benioff casually mentioned that things are getting complicated between them because "they're starting to be attracted to each other."
As they keep warming to each other even more, we find ourselves getting impatient to see them as a couple. Yes, they are technically related, but besides that not really being a big deal in Westeros, their marriage could unite the people in the way they both hope. After all, Daenerys keeps asking Jon to bend the knee, and we hope he does . . . in the form of a marriage proposal. Here are all the reasons, sexy and sensical, that this marriage needs to happen.
You Can Finally Hide Old Instagram Photos Without Deleting Them
If you're embarrassed about old Hipstamatic photos on your Instagram feed or hate the filters you used in the early days of the app, you can finally hide them. Instagram rolled out an update to the app that now includes the "Archive" feature, which lets you move photos off your feed and to a space only you can see.
You can still see any archived post and even move it back to your feed. The feature should be good news to anyone who wants to hide bad selfies, photos of ex significant others, or nonaesthetically pleasing photos. See how to use the new feature, available in the latest version of Instagram, ahead.
Prince William Is Younger Than Kate Middleton by This Much
Prince William was just 15 years old when his mother, Princess Diana, died in a horrific car accident in August 1997. Despite the hardship, William has grown into a responsible and giving man who we're sure Diana would be proud of. So, just how old is the royal? Well, William was born on June 21, 1982 at exactly 9:03 p.m., which makes him 35 years old. He is five and a half months younger than wife Kate Middleton and two years older than his brother, Prince Harry.
For the Past 7 Summers, I've Gone 2 Full Months Without Electronics
In a smartphone-obsessed world, it can be hard to imagine unplugging for even a moment. We count on our devices to satisfy all of our desires, whether we want food delivered to our door, a friend to immediately chat with, or a few minutes of time-killing entertainment. But our society's love for our screens often borders on a reliance, and sometimes the best remedy can be taking a break and disconnecting altogether.
For the past seven Summers, I lived many people's worst nightmare: going two months completely free of electronics. This meant having no access to electric lights, no outlets, and yes, no phones or computers every Summer from ages 9 to 15.
With each Summer I returned to camp, it felt harder to unplug. My younger self mostly used electronics for movies and entertainment, a void filled at camp by the many daily games and activities. Over the years, however, time on electronics became more and more synonymous with time on social media, which I used to connect to my friends and family. As social media grew to be a key part of my daily life, disconnecting from my electronics felt like disconnecting from the world around me.
Growing up with anxiety, I always found the first week of being off of electronics the most difficult. I would constantly stress about everything that was going on in the outside world, including all the unread texts, un-"liked" posts, and unopened Snapchats that I knew I was missing. But I soon came to realize how much social media contributed to my anxiety during the year. Wondering why more people weren't "liking" my Instagram photos, seeing posts of events I wasn't invited to, and needing to craft witty replies to my friends' texts all represented some of my greatest stressors, and taking these things away allowed me to feel much more calm and comfortable with myself.
I soon came to realize how much social media contributed to my anxiety during the year.
Part of this comfort had to do with thinking more positively about my body. At camp, I was surrounded by real people with all kinds of body types, not the photoshopped, airbrushed women I often saw on Instagram. Unable to compare myself to the picture-perfect models that overwhelmed me in the digital world, I slowly became more positive about the way I looked, which ultimately helped my mental health overall.
Deviceless, I was also able to connect more deeply and quickly with the people around me. The bonds I formed at camp are closer than any of the other friendships I formed thus far in my life, largely because we were able to truly get to know each other free of media distractions. Without phones in hand or on the edge of the dinner table, we were all allowed to enjoy each other's company without the stresses of the digital world constantly interrupting us.
Most importantly, unplugging reminded me to focus on truly experiencing events rather than experiencing them through a screen. Living without electronics made me realize how insignificant all the photos and videos I would take at home to post on social media were; they weren't truly for my own enjoyment, but to show others all the fun I was having and to give off a hand-crafted persona that wasn't authentically me. Disconnecting allowed me to live in the moment rather than live for the post, which let me enjoy these experiences much more.
Even after camp has ended, I still find it helpful to periodically unplug whenever I need a break. Whether it's by creating a "phone pile" when eating with friends or deleting social media apps for the weekend, finding small ways to disconnect allows me to reconnect with myself and better my well-being.
Clearly not everyone has the opportunity to completely disconnect for months at a time, but we can all take a few days or even a few hours to unplug. In a world in which life can be so fast-paced and media-centered, it can serve us all to shut down our electronics from time to time and to let ourselves just be. We must remember to ask ourselves: how much of our lives are being lived through a screen rather than being truly lived?
The Reason School Lunches Were Confiscated From Children Has Parents Infuriated
Even though these parents took the time to pack their children lunches and snacks for school, their kids were left without food.
Parents in Durham, Ontario, are sharing stories of how teachers are taking away snacks and lunches from children that they deem to be unhealthy. According to The Star, the foods being discouraged vary depending on classroom and school but include "Goldfish crackers, Bear Paws cookies, granola bars, string cheese, Jello, juice boxes, pudding cups, gummy fruit snacks, raisins, Animal Crackers, chocolate milk and Sun Chips."
However, Durham District School Board Superintendent Luigia Ayotte said in a statement that there is no official list of banned foods. "We understand there may have been some issues with regard to certain foods students bring for snacks and lunches, but food preferences and choice remain with students and parents unless they pose an adverse allergic danger to other students," she said.
Yet 30 local parents have shared their troubling stories. While many understand the allergy risk of certain foods, they don't believe their child should be singled out for the food choices that are in their lunchboxes or backpacks that don't pose any allergy threat.
Last year, Elaina Daoust sent her picky eater to school with a small piece of banana bread for his morning snack. However, the junior kindergartner was told that he couldn't eat it because it contained chocolate chips. "He came home with a chart (listing healthy snack ideas) and told me he and the teacher talked about it and healthy choices. She also sent a note to me. I was really, really, really mad for several reasons," Daoust told The Star. This mom said she purposefully picked that snack because teachers discouraged homemade treats, it was labeled nut-free, and she assumed it was safe for school.
Avani Chaudhary also experienced this issue when she sent her daughter and son to school with Goldfish crackers and chocolate chip granola bars. Her second grader was told that these aren't "welcome snacks," while her kindergartner didn't have any issues. "It's basically the teacher's opinion," Avani said. "Is a muffin healthier than a granola bar? Maybe, maybe not. It depends what is in them. Is the teacher qualified to make these decisions? It should be up to the parents."
For one little girl, her lunch was withheld and sent home because it contained pizza outside of the designated pizza days or chocolate chip granola bars that were viewed as unhealthy. "I felt it was more unhealthy for a child not to eat at all, than to eat a granola bar with chocolate," said the child's mother, Janae Brangman.
This post was originally published on Oct. 3, 2016.
Chris Pratt's Dating History Is 1 of the Smallest in Hollywood
Chris Pratt and Anna Faris announced on social media on Sunday night that they're legally separating after eight years of marriage, and fans were shocked, to say the least. While it seems like the two have been together forever (they began dating after meeting on the set of Take Me Home Tonight in 2007), it actually wasn't too long ago that we didn't know them as a couple. Did you know that Chris also dated another famous costar back in 2004? Keep reading to see who Chris has been linked to over the years.
Here Are the 10 Incredible Books You Should Read This August
Not to freak you guys out or anything, but Summer doesn't last forever. That means you only have so long to kick back on the beach with a good read, and now that Fall is almost upon us, why wait to stock up on some of the best new books? We took a look at all the best fiction and nonfiction titles debuting in August, so get ready to fall in love with more than a few of our choices.
Game of Thrones: Here's Your Referesher on Ser Rodrik
It's a pretty great time for those of us rooting for House Stark. Arya is back in Winterfell! Nearly all the surviving Starks have reunited! Of course, in true Game of Thrones fashion, the road to that point hasn't been an easy one. Even at the castle gates, Arya can't seem to catch a break. Since she's been gone for so long that she's presumed dead, the guards up front won't let her pass. One of the ways she attempts to bypass them is by telling them to fetch some important Winterfell folk who can confirm her identity, such as Ser Rodrik. But who is Ser Rodrik, anyway?
Ser Rodrik Cassel is a knight, Winterfell's Master-at-Arms and primary military adviser. He trains the likes of Robb, Theon, and Jon in combat. In season one, he plays a pretty vital role, as he identifies the dagger that nearly kills Bran as Valyrian steel. He then escorts Catelyn to King's Landing to get down to the bottom of the assassination, helps her kidnap Tyrion, and joins in when people start hailing Robb as King in the North.
When Arya mentions Ser Rodrik to the guards in the present, they tell her that nobody by that name is in Winterfell. That's because he meets a grim fate in "The Old Gods and the New," when Theon claims the castle for himself and his family name. Present in Winterfell to keep Bran and Rickon safe while every other Stark is away, Rodrik tries his hardest to do just that during the Greyjoy siege. Unfortunately, Theon captures him as part of a trap that leaves the castle defenseless. Initially, he simply wants to throw Rodrik in the dungeon, but his men urge him to make his former trainer "pay the iron price." Ser Rodrik tells an upset Bran that he's "off to see [his] father" and delivers a sick burn as his final words to Theon before his execution.
While that's the last time we see the Ser Rodrik that we were introduced to, we technically see him again in Bran's Greensight visions. We see a younger version of him training Ned and Benjen as boys in "Home," and when a young Hodor suffers from a seizure in "The Door." Those flashbacks illustrate that he's very important to the Starks and has been training them for quite sometime. But now that he's sadly gone, perhaps Winterfell could use a new, capable Master-at-Arms. Maybe Arya and Brienne, resident badasses, are up to the task?
25 Recipes Guaranteed to Make Any Camping Trip Better
If you ask me, the best part about camping is the food. There's almost nothing better than gooey s'mores straight from the campfire, but s'mores aren't the only camping-approved recipe. If you're looking for meal ideas for your next camping trip, these foil-pack dinners and campfire desserts are the recipes you should keep in mind.
Julianne Hough Jumps Into Brooks Laich's Arms During a Relay Race
Julianne Hough and Brooks Laich are getting right back into action following their relaxing honeymoon last month. After hitting the beaches of Seychelles and taking a safari in Kenya, the newlyweds showed off their sporty sides as they celebrated their friend's birthday at Noon Lodge in Big Bear Lake, CA, on Sunday. While Brooks opted to go shirtless for a few of the events (it looked like a Summer camp-esque color war), Julianne flaunted her washboard abs in a blue sports bra and shorts. Aside from competing in a water-balloon-throwing contest and an egg relay race, the pair showed off their sweet chemistry as Julianne happily jumped into her husband's arms. Looks like Julianne really is a total catch. Get it?
9 Common Health Struggles You Face Every Summer and How to Deal With Them
For many, Summer is one of the most fun seasons - and we wait all year for it. But while you're busy exercising outdoors with friends and making your way through the ultimate health foodie checklist, there are a few annoying health issues that might creep up on you.
From painful chub rub to dehydration, these are the common health issues you should watch out for this Summer . . . and the expert advice on how to protect yourself from them.
Get Zendaya's 9 Favorite Hair and Skincare Products in Your Life ASAP
Everyone thinks Beyoncé is flawless, and while I worship the queen of all bees, Zendaya is the celebrity who wins my vote when it comes to the "F" word. Zendaya is one of the most creative beauty stars on the red carpet. She's a chameleon, constantly changing up her look with wigs and dramatic makeup. The young Hollywood It girl will take on every character from David Bowie to Cleopatra. Plus, she even told me in this interview that she often does her own makeup for photographed events. Girlfriend has beauty, brains, and brush skills!
On her app, she recently revealed nine products she regularly uses. And because she is so authentic, I truly believe these are her tried and trusted. "Sometimes you find products that you love so much that you just keep rocking with them," she said. "From moisturizer to body soap, here are 6 products I love!"
To make this even sweeter, they're all under $30. So you don't need a Hollywood-size budget to add them to your routine, too.
What Happened After a Cop Pulled 1 Woman Over For an Illegal Turn Is Going Viral
While Candace Tongate was working a night shift, she spotted a woman making an illegal U-turn. This police officer from Georgia went to pull over the driver, but as she drove up behind her, another car pulled up.
Kevin Williams stopped his car behind Candace and explained that his wife was about to give birth to their third baby. Luckily for the U-turn offender, Candace let her go with a warning and immediately went to help his wife, Letoya. At this point, the mom was in active labor in the backseat and Candace could already see the baby's head.
As 911 operators gave Candace directions over the phone, she delivered her first baby on the side of the road. "When I realized it was happening, I couldn't believe I was helping deliver a baby," Candace told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Letoya safely gave birth to baby Rylie just before emergency officials arrived thanks to Candace. "I thought she was a mom with how calm she was handling everything, considering my husband was freaking out and the other officers on scene seemed to be in shock," Letoya told WSBTV.
Candace's partner, Sgt. Stacy Gruber, assisted her with the delivery, and she shared on Facebook that she'll never forget this late-night shift. "Thank you officer Candace Tongate for delivering our princess," Letoya wrote on Facebook. "And thank you to all the other male officers that watched not knowing what to do... but checked on me to make sure I was OK LOL."
How Jaime's Death Would Change Game of Thrones Forever
Daenerys hits the Lannisters hard during the deadly battle in "The Spoils Of War," and now Game of Thrones fans have to ask themselves a hard question: if Jaime Lannister dies in the aftermath of the attack, what does that mean for the rest of the season? There's no denying Jaime is in a precarious position at the moment. In the episode's closing scene, he seems to be sinking in the river after someone (most likely Bronn) knocks him off his horse. This could be the end for the Kingslayer, but if it is, then his death will be just the beginning for Cersei, Tyrion, and Brienne, and his passing could shape the next phase of the great game in ways no one could possibly see coming.
Jaime is meaningful to many of the characters, and if he becomes a casualty of the war between Cersei and Daenerys, there will be major repercussions for everyone involved. Here are just a few ways Jaime's death would alter the course of the final episodes of Game of Thrones.
Your Fall Wardrobe Isn't Complete Without 1 of These 15 Cool Turtleneck Sweaters
Without a doubt, my favorite style of sweater is a turtleneck. Not only do they look chic and timeless, but they're also really practical. I hate when my neck gets cold in the chillier months, and I don't always want to add a bulky scarf to my outfit. The turtleneck is the ultimate problem-solver. Check out our favorite options for Fall and consider a few for your seasonal wardrobe.
19 Spice Girls Photos That Will Take You Back to a Simpler Time
The '90s were an epic decade when it came to pop culture. While 90210 was steaming up your TV screens and inflatable chairs were taking over your bedroom, chances are the Spice Girls were blasting on the radio. The girl group - made up of Melanie Brown ("Scary Spice"), Melanie Chisholm ("Sporty Spice"), Emma Bunton ("Baby Spice"), Geri Halliwell ("Ginger Spice"), and Victoria Beckham ("Posh Spice") - gave the "girl power" movement a whole new push. There were peace signs, British flags, and really high-heeled boots, and we wish we could just press rewind to go back to that simple time. Get lost in nostalgia with these Spice Girls throwback photos.
Game of Thrones: Here's Your Referesher on Ser Rodrik
It's a pretty great time for those of us rooting for House Stark. Arya is back in Winterfell! Nearly all the surviving Starks have reunited! Of course, in true Game of Thrones fashion, the road to that point hasn't been an easy one. Even at the castle gates, Arya can't seem to catch a break. Since she's been gone for so long that she's presumed dead, the guards up front won't let her pass. One of the ways she attempts to bypass them is by telling them to fetch some important Winterfell folk who can confirm her identity, such as Ser Rodrik. But who is Ser Rodrik, anyway?
Ser Rodrik Cassel is a knight, Winterfell's Master-at-Arms and primary military adviser. He trains the likes of Robb, Theon, and Jon in combat. In season one, he plays a pretty vital role, as he identifies the dagger that nearly kills Bran as Valyrian steel. He then escorts Catelyn to King's Landing to get down to the bottom of the assassination, helps her kidnap Tyrion, and joins in when people start hailing Robb as King in the North.
When Arya mentions Ser Rodrik to the guards in the present, they tell her that nobody by that name is in Winterfell. That's because he meets a grim fate in "The Old Gods and the New," when Theon claims the castle for himself and his family name. Present in Winterfell to keep Bran and Rickon safe while every other Stark is away, Rodrik tries his hardest to do just that during the Greyjoy siege. Unfortunately, Theon captures him as part of a trap that leaves the castle defenseless. Initially, he simply wants to throw Rodrik in the dungeon, but his men urge him to make his former trainer "pay the iron price." Ser Rodrik tells an upset Bran that he's "off to see [his] father" and delivers a sick burn as his final words to Theon before his execution.
While that's the last time we see the Ser Rodrik that we were introduced to, we technically see him again in Bran's Greensight visions. We see a younger version of him training Ned and Benjen as boys in "Home," and when a young Hodor suffers from a seizure in "The Door." Those flashbacks illustrate that he's very important to the Starks and has been training them for quite sometime. But now that he's sadly gone, perhaps Winterfell could use a new, capable Master-at-Arms. Maybe Arya and Brienne, resident badasses, are up to the task?
When You See the Bag Selena Gomez Designed For Coach, You'll Think, "OMG, It's Perfect"
As soon as Selena Gomez was announced as the face of Coach we started predicting the items she might design for the label. Selena slips seamlessly into everything from the brand's quirky sweaters to bomber jackets, and she totes plenty of the luxurious bags. But it's time Selena put her stamp on one she can really call her own.
The star just rolled out the Selena Grace, which she collaborated on with Creative Director Stuart Vevers. It's truly the perfect shape and size for women on the go, and it comes in three classic color combinations. What's more, every carryall comes embroidred with a personal message from Selena to her fans: "To be you is to be strong." And on the exterior base, you'll find "Love yourself first" in her own handwriting, a detail that could be found on Selena's custom Met Gala purse and one that references the tattoo on her side.
"I'm very excited for everyone to finally see the design Stuart and I worked on together. I can't wait to carry it - it's totally versatile, perfect to wear day-to-night, and it goes with everything," Selena states in the press release. Read on for an exclusive first look at the entire collection, which will be available for preorder on Aug. 14 and in stores globally Sept. 1 and includes limited-edition key fobs, wallets, and wristlets too. (Bonus: you can also enter to win a signed bag on Coach.com as of Aug. 4!)
13 Ways to De-Stress During the Workday
It's natural for work to leave you a little stressed, but if you're a frazzled mess from nine to five, it's important to step back and relax. Not sure how to loosen up? From doodling to redecorating, here are 13 easy ways to de-stress during the workday:
- Finish the tough stuff first. Try to get your most complicated tasks out of the way early in the day so that they're not looming over you for hours. Think of it as a "best for last" technique and you'll start to look forward to your afternoons.
- Make exercise a priority. Whether it's a quick walk around the block or a full-on gym session during your lunch hour, moving your body is crucial for your sanity. Aim to stretch every hour, too, in an effort to clear your head.
- Savor your snack. Rather than mindlessly munching on whatever snacks are handy, bring your favorite treat from home and take the time to relish every bite. Make it a healthy bite to really rev up your mood and energy.
- Connect with a friend. Socializing is one of the easiest ways to distract yourself from everyday anxieties, so call up a pal to chat for a few minutes. Try to avoid any work-related venting and stick to fun, tension-free topics instead.
- Congregate at the water cooler. It's important to engage with your co-workers on a day-to-day basis. Not only will kitchen small talk free up your mind for a few minutes, but it will also help you build positive relationships around the office.
- Take five to do something lighthearted. Were you the type who doodled during class? For five (and only five) quick minutes, draw, catch up on Instagram, or browse Pinterest to improve your attitude and recharge your batteries.
- Just breathe. Focus on nothing but your breath for a few minutes to open up your lungs and calm your mind. It doesn't need to be serious meditation - just 10 deep breaths to help you relax.
- Create a worry list. If your mind starts spinning with all your anxieties, try listing them out to sort through your thoughts. Come up with ways to tackle each issue, then force yourself to move on for a while as you cool off.
- Turn on mood-boosting music. A good playlist can do wonders for your spirit, so slip on some headphones and crank up the tunes. If anger is your issue, go for calmer sounds. Exhausted from all the stress? Choose fast-tempo songs to reenergize.
- Make over your work space. Your space can have a major effect on your attitude, so make sure that your desk area is both clean and decorated to suit your taste. Spruce it up with a fun print, colorful office accessories, and photos of your favorite places.
- Take your eyes off the screen. Save your spirit (and your eyesight) by looking away from the computer every once in a while. Pick up a pen and paper to list out your ideas or stare across the room to avoid an extra headache.
- Get troubles off your chest. If you can't stop overanalyzing problems A through Z, do whatever you need to do to refocus and move on. Try venting to a friend, emailing your mom, or - if it's nothing serious - chatting with a co-worker over coffee.
- Try a quick massage. Regularly take an afternoon break? Use that time to rub your shoulders or go all out and search salons in the area. A quick neck massage will release the tension buildup and help you get centered.
Before Chris Pratt, Anna Faris Was Actually Married to Another Actor
Anna Faris and Chris Pratt are the latest couple to call it quits this year. Over the weekend, the couple announced their decision to legally separate after eight years of marriage, and needless to say, we are devastated. But the news also got us wondering about Anna's past loves. As it turns out, the Mom actress has only opened her heart up to one other man (that we know of). Keep reading to find out more about Anna's former flames.
19 Hilarious Reactions to Daenerys and Jon Snow's Cave Scene on Game of Thrones
Yet again, Jon Snow brings a woman into a cave on Game of Thrones and sparks fly. During Sunday night's episode, Jon Snow leads Daenerys Targaryen into a Dragonstone cave to show her the writing on the wall - both literally and figuratively. They stand physically close to each other, their eyes locked, and fans could NOT handle the tension. People were quick to react to the chemistry on social media, some excited by the idea of the characters getting together while others pointed out that it's a bit uncomfortable considering, you know, how they're related and all that. Check out some of the most hilarious reactions to Jon and Daenerys's cave scene, then see Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke's cutest moments together in real life.
Take Your Bathroom to Another Level With These 12 Gems From H&M Home
If you feel like your bathroom could use an update but don't want to tear it apart and start a remodel, simply rethink your decor. It's easy to add some cute and affordable touches that will make your space look and feel new again. H&M is continuously releasing trendy new home goods, and its collection of bathroom accessories has us rushing to our wallets. Check out some of our top picks from the retailer's current collection.
20 Staples Kate Middleton Keeps in Rotation All Summer Long
Kate Middleton doesn't just repeat her outfits whenever she feels like it - the decision is meticulous and often based on the season. She slips into one cream Alexander McQueen lace dress at the same time each Summer, and her espadrille shoes and woven clutches get the most wear this time of year too.
Kate's wardrobe staples are all sophisticated, but she especially loves to show off her preppy side when the weather gets warm. Much to our benefit, her lightweight pieces are must haves that never go out of style. Read on to see them all, then shop the trusty basics when you scroll.
Queen Letizia's Dress Put a Modern Twist on a Classic Spanish Shawl
The King and Queen of Spain threw their annual Balearic Islands reception at the Royal Palace of La Almudaina in Mallorca and, boy, did Queen Letizia dress to impress. Not that we're surprised, since she clearly knows how to turn heads.
The Spanish Royal wore a fitted floral-embroidered dress with cap sleeves reportedly from Juan Duyos. The best part of the dress is that it's actually made from a manton de manila. The manton de manilas are shawls that are very prominent in the Spanish culture. She finished off her look with red pumps, a beige suede clutch from Magrit, and gold floral dangling earrings. Letizia's mother-in-law also rocked a floral dress, but instead she opted for a black maxi version. Side by side, Queen Letizia and Queen Sofia complemented each other perfectly.
Evan Peters Thought Emma Roberts Was "So Weird" When They First Met
Emma Roberts and Evan Peters are well-known for their romance on and off the screen (they frequently costar in American Horror Story together), but it might surprise fans to know that their real-life relationship started on a completely different project. In 2012, just a year after Evan's breakout role on the first season of AHS, the two worked together on the comedy film Adult World. While Emma was immediately smitten with her costar, Evan didn't catch the love bug until well after they finished filming.
"Everyone thought we dated on the movie and we didn't - not for a long time after," Emma revealed on an episode of Chelsea Lately. "I actually, on the set, was like, 'Oh yeah, we're totally gonna date.' And I would, like, flirt with him, which ended up looking like I had something in my eye because I'd be like, 'Hey, what's up?' And he literally didn't speak to me the entire movie. He thought I was so weird." Even though the couple have faced a few breakups (and makeups) over the years, their love seems to be thriving since getting back together in September 2016. Plus, they're set to share the screen once more when Emma returns for American Horror Story: Cult this season.
Coco Austin and Ice T Share the Most Precious Snaps of Their Baby Girl
Coco Austin and Ice T have one serious cutie on their hands! The couple of more than 15 years - who welcomed their first child together, daughter Chanel Nicole Marrow, in November 2015 - have taken to social media to share precious photos of their little one. In addition to sharing a family selfie taken just minutes after Chanel's arrival, Coco also posts a slew of pictures on their daughter's own accounts. As of August 2017, Chanel has over 40,000 Twitter followers and over 436,000 Instagram followers. Keep reading to see more photos of their adorable little cutie.
49 Islands You Must Visit Before You Die
There's a big world out there filled with islands just waiting for your arrival. We curated the 49 best islands across the globe that you absolutely must visit before you die. Time to get out the bucket list.
These Photos Give a Powerful Middle Finger to "Rude" and "Catty" Breastfeeding-Shamers
If you've breastfed in public before, you've likely witnessed a handful of common (and all equally unsolicited) reactions from random passersby. There's the classic wide-eyed look of contempt, but sometimes there are verbal comments of disapproval, from "Why don't you cover up?" to "Can't you just go to the bathroom?"
To represent and subsequently banish these unsolicited remarks, photographer Nicki Kaylor gathered nine breastfeeding mamas for a photo series titled Latched For Love. The Tennessee-based photographer captured the moms feeding their children while simultaneously holding up a whiteboard with a saying they've either been told or heard about breastfeeding - and the results are incredibly powerful.
When she shared the photos on her Facebook, Nicki added her own words of wisdom about why "the judgement and awkward stares" need to end now. "Nurturing your child from your body is something SO special," she wrote in her Facebook post. "It's not as easy as everyone thinks. It takes a lot of determination . . . breastfeeding is PURE. Breastfeeding is BEAUTIFUL. Breastfeeding is NATURAL."
"If you see a mother nursing her child in public, please do not approach her with rude words," she continued. "Smile and continue on your way or tell her how AWESOME she is!" We couldn't possibly agree more with that.
Read on to take a look at Nicki's beautiful pictures of the nine proudly breastfeeding mamas in all their glory.
Raised Without Gender Should Be Required Viewing For Every Parent
As the discussion about people who identify as something other than their sex assigned at birth is becoming more common, Vice examined the issue in a video that's generating a lot of buzz. Raised Without Gender tackles this worldwide issue by following journalist Amelia Abraham to Sweden, which the film bills as "the most forward-thinking country in the world" when it comes to challenging and questioning gender norms. Here's what you need to know!
The Premise
In the 30-minute documentary, Abraham interviews a gender-nonconforming family: Del LaGrace Volcano, who was born intersex (meaning having physical characteristics that are both male and female), children Mika and Niko, and grandmother Margareta, the mother of Del's partner.
Both Mika, 5, and Niko, 2, were assigned male at birth, but their parents let them play with whatever toys they want to play with, wear whatever clothes they want to wear, keep their hair however they want to keep it, and choose to identify with whichever gender they choose.
In the house, they often use the male pronoun "he" to refer to the children (though Swedish does have a gender-neutral pronoun, "hen"), but Mika actually appears to be uncomfortable choosing between male and female pronouns. By appearance, most people assume Mika is a girl - he wears dresses a lot and has long hair - but he says when other children ask him if he's a boy or a girl, he says he's neither and both.
Sweden's Approach
What helps facilitate this way of life is the fact that Sweden currently has many government-funded gender-neutral kindergartens, plus the entire educational system has mandated for almost 20 years that schools work against gender norms and stereotypes.
The schools do so by calling the children "friends" instead of "boys and girls" or by having projects that aren't gender-based. The classrooms also feature study materials in which recognizable figures like Batman or a Disney princess are engaged in nonstereotypical behavior, like Batman taking care of a baby or dancing ballet or a princess engaged in a same-sex relationship.
As Abraham observes, it's more like the schools are trying to remove gender discrepancies and sexism rather than erase gender altogether. One example of this is by using adjectives that are typically ascribed to one gender or the other to describe all children - so boys aren't just "cool" or "strong" and girls aren't just "helpful" or "cute."
The Opposition
Swedish psychiatrist Dr. Eberhard, who is interviewed in the short film, is against what he sees as "erasing" gender, saying you cannot solve a problem by going in the exact opposite direction.
"I think then you create new problems," says Eberhard, who advocates letting children choose who or what they want to be and just letting them be kids. But that's actually quite similar to what the gender-neutral school programs are advocating as well. The big sticking point seems to come down to whether we should use labels like "boy" and "girl." Not being able to categorize people seems to be the scariest proposition of the entire exercise.
The Takeaways
The documentary honestly seems like a lot of no-brainer behavior: let children be free to be what they want, which is a tenet that can be applied to all facets of a child's life, not just the child's gender identity.
But as Volcano observes, it's like people "don't know how to act" if they "don't know if you're a boy or a girl." It seems that people need to fit everyone inside constructs, like gender or race, in order to know how to "deal with them," which leads to the ongoing cycle of categorizing people in order to be able to rely on the preconceived notions of said category when interacting with the category members, which in turn reinforces the ideas associated with each category and makes its members feel as though they must behave in certain ways.
It's a self-perpetuating problem that perhaps could be broken with innovations like gender-neutral parenting and schooling. If boys are free to wear makeup if they want to, perhaps eventually that will stopped being seen as a "girl" thing; conversely, if girls are allowed to wear their hair short or play with trucks, those things will eventually stop being seen as "boy" things. Because none of those things inherently has a gender - our society assigns them genders.
The path won't be easy, of course, because change never is, and Volcano acknowledges that bullying is certainly a concern - but it might just be the cost of doing business if you want to change people's minds and hearts.
"Of course I don't want [my children] bullied, of course that scares the hell out of me. But I think they have the tools to deal with it," he says, adding that his children have a host of privileges - assigned male, both white, both able-bodied, both intelligent - so their lives are already filled with things that will make it easier for them.
"They've got a full knapsack of privileges. So if they have to deal with a little bit of discomfort because they have a Mapa or because their gender expression doesn't match what people think it should be? Gender confusion is a small price to pay for social progress," Volcano says. "I think a lot of the social problems we have in the world are down to the streaming, that we force boys this way and we force girls this way."
He's not wrong. In all aspects of life, it does seem like we are too quick to categorize and separate. As demonstrated by interviews with the Swedish children, the kids gravitate toward all sorts of varied interests and clothing when given more room to explore, regardless of their assigned gender, and they seem happy to be allowed such freedom.
Sociologist Carol J. Auster recently told The New York Times that if you stop marketing specific toys to boys and others to girls, it "widens the possibility for the child to pursue interests that he or she cares about and has a talent for."
How dare someone make my child feel that way? He should be free to enjoy anything he wants as long as it isn't hurting someone else.
We don't know exactly what happened, but after a few days, our son was hiding his fingernails because he didn't want anyone to see them, undoubtedly because someone said something to him about it. Whether it was a fellow student or a parent or someone else entirely is beside the point; the point is that our son went from feeling proud and delighted to feeling ashamed and embarrassed about something of no consequence that hurts absolutely no one. How dare someone make my child feel that way? He should be free to enjoy anything he wants as long as it isn't hurting someone else.
So perhaps Sweden is onto something with its schools that are trying to take away the preconceived notions of what gender looks like. Abandoning labels is more of a personal choice, but society as a whole should be moving away from telling anyone what it means to be a boy or a girl, a man or a woman. We're all just people, with varied appearances, interests, and talents. Why does it matter what a person's sex is and whether they're interested in the "appropriately gendered" things? It certainly doesn't matter to the Swedish kindergarteners.
7 Other Places You Can See Kit Harington (Besides Game of Thrones)
Jon Snow has been bringing his sexiest smolders to Game of Thrones for seven seasons now. We watched him come back to life, we fawned over his beautiful man bun, and we're pretty sure he deserves the throne more than anyone else. Part of the reason Jon Snow is just so irresistible, though, is because he's played by Kit Harington. Harington's just as hot in real life (if not hotter), and he also smiles way more often. If you've developed an unexpected crush on the GOT actor over the years, we have good news: he's had a handful of other roles in various movies. Who's ready for a marathon?
Halloween Fairy Gardens Are Already Trending - and It's Not Too Early to DIY Yours
Do you smell that, reader? It's the remote scent of candy corn, fresh-cut pumpkins, and fog machines wafting in the distance. Halloween is slowly but surely sneaking up on us, and we can barely contain our excitement for the pumpkin-spice season. Retailers like Target and Pier 1 Imports have already dropped their collections of ghostly decor, inspiring us to start prepping our DIY projects for the best holiday of the year. First up on the list: giving our trendy fairy gardens a Halloween-themed makeover.
Halloween-ified fairy gardens are currently taking over Pinterest, and it's easy to see why. These fun decorations swap out itsy-bitsy fairy figurines for teeny-tiny ghosts, goblins, pumpkins, and all things bewitching. The perfect mix of cute and spooky, they're an ideal addition to your spooky array of backyard or front-porch decor. Though the overall theme and vibe of your Halloween fairy garden is totally at your discretion, we've gathered a handful of especially crafty examples to inspire you. Halloween will be here faster than you can say "boo!" so read on for some ideas to get those creative juices flowing.
Why Panera Put Peanut Butter on a Grilled Cheese Sandwich For a Child With Severe Allergies
One family is suing Panera Bread claiming that despite multiple warnings about their daughter's allergy, the little girl was given a meal that could have killed her.
The Boston family claims that their highly allergic 6-year-old daughter was served a grilled cheese sandwich complete with two scoops of peanut butter. In the lawsuit, her parents, John and Elissa Russo, state that their daughter was hospitalized overnight after biting into the sandwich.
According to her mom, the sandwich was ordered online, in which she specifically referenced her daughter's peanut allergy twice within the form. By the time anyone realized the extra ingredient had been added to the sandwich, the child had already bitten into it. They family says that she began to vomit and broke out in hives later that evening.
"Is this somebody doing this on purpose?" John later asked a manager. "Because it's two freakin' tablespoons of peanut butter on this sandwich, and it's a grilled cheese."
The manager reportedly apologized to him but blamed the mistake on a "language" issue. However, this explanation that an employee with limited English could have seen the note about "peanut" as a request to add it to the grilled cheese rather than to keep it away from the meal is "no excuse" to John. It didn't seem reasonable to the father because he looked up "allergy" in Spanish and Portuguese – the language the workers in question spoke – and realized how similar the translation (alergia) is to the English version.
"Panera takes the issue of food allergens, including the reported incident at our franchise bakery-cafe, very seriously," a spokesman said in an email to the Huffington Post. "We have procedures in place across the company to minimize exposure and risk for our guests and associates. We do not comment on pending litigation."
According to John, the family didn't plan to take legal actions until discovering that another child with peanut allergies was also served a grilled cheese with peanut butter after ordering the sandwich online less than a month after his daughter's episode. This child also went into an anaphylactic reaction and was hospitalized. While the two situations happened at different locations, the same franchise group owns both Paneras.
Good Bones: Here's Where Your Favorite HGTV Show Is Filmed
If you're anything like us, you've been hooked on HGTV for as long as you can remember - did you know the home improvement channel is actually over 20 years old? And it just keeps adding bigger and better shows to inspire viewers in their own home and garden quests. Good Bones is one of the most recent additions to the network, having premiered in March 2016.
It features a mother-daughter team of Mina Starsiak, a real-estate agent, and her daughter Karen Laine, who used to be an attorney. But a few years ago they decided to start rehabbing their hometown one dilapidated house at a time. But do you know what their hometown is? It is none other than Indianapolis, IN.
Good Bones is unique because a lot of HGTV shows are set in bigger cities or even another country. The Flip or Flop franchise started in Los Angeles and has now expanded to Atlanta and Las Vegas; Property Brothers and Love It or List It are both Canadian shows, though they have both expanded to a couple of U.S. areas.
But Good Bones is a homegrown show from America's heartland. Its popularity likely helped spawn HGTV's new show Home Town, which follows married couple Ben and Erin Napier as they renovate houses in their hometown of Laurel, MS.
Good Bones, which is currently airing its second season, was recently renewed by HGTV for a 13-episode third season, set to air in 2018.
"Mina and Karen's incredible home renovation skills, as well as their expanding popularity with the HGTV audience, are just two of the many reasons to keep this hit going for another season," said HGTV senior VP John Feld in a statement. "Nothing says success like a good mid-season renewal."
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