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.
dimanche 1 octobre 2017
Nothing Says Fall Like These Disney-Inspired Halloween Candles - You'll Want Them All!
Is it really even Fall until your home is full-on decked out with candles on every possible surface? The answer is a resounding no, even if your calendar begs to differ. If you haven't had a seasonal candle shopping spree yet, we have just the collection that'll make Disney-lovers everywhere squeal with delight. Walter & Rosie Candle Co. makes a variety of magical Disney-inspired candles and wax melts, and it just so happens to release a Fall-themed lineup each year. These candles go beyond those basic pumpkin aromas and truly capture the essence of the season with little nods to our favorite Disney movies. Ahead, we've gathered all 14 candles for your online-shopping convenience. These would make a lovely gift for the Disney fan in your life!
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Gravy
A perfectly cooked Thanksgiving turkey is nothing without gravy, but somehow the sauce is always the hardest to master. If you have suffered from runny or lumpy gravy far too long and are determined to make this your year of a standout gravy, look no further than these foolproof recipes. We've turned to some of your favorite celebrity chefs and Food Network personalities for their tried-and-true gravy recipes, and we promise they'll turn you into a total pro.
Alton Brown: With a Secret Ingredient
Alton Brown's best gravy ever doesn't just call for chicken stock; it calls for wine, too. You might think that white wine would go with turkey gravy, but Alton goes with red wine instead for the rich flavor that it adds to the hearty gravy. The stock and wine work together to pull the juicy bits of turkey from the bottom of the roasting pan, and the liquid reduces to form a deeply colored, gorgeous sauce. In the recipe, Alton reminds his readers, "Remember, your gravy should be slightly thin in the pan as it will thicken once you serve it."
Giada De Laurentiis: A Hint of Sophistication
Usually it's Mario Batali who adds truffle to everything, but when it comes to turkey gravy, Giada's on board. Giada's crispy truffled turkey is slathered in truffle butter, and the accompanying gravy gets a dash of truffle salt to enhance the earthy flavor even more.
Ina Garten: Booze Makes It Better
Don't forget to pick up a bottle of brandy or Cognac if you plan on making Ina Garten's homemade gravy. Ina sweats onions in a generous amount of butter before adding flour, salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Things take an interesting (and delicious) turn when Cognac or brandy and white wine join the party, and a tablespoon of heavy cream rounds it all out and delivers a smooth consistency.
Tyler Florence: Tons of Garlic and Herbs
Chef Tyler Florence is a huge fan of garlic and herbs (for good reason), and his roasted turkey gravy recipe makes a strong case for the flavor combination. The flavor-packed gravy calls for a whole head of garlic, the classic mirepoix (onion, carrot, and celery), and plenty of fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley. For a truly memorable meal, pair it with Tyler Florence's epic mashed potatoes.
Gordon Ramsay: With a Touch of Crunch
You wouldn't expect Gordon Ramsay's gravy recipe to be basic, and it's anything but. Gordon's recipe calls for fresh tomatoes that simmer with onions, bacon, dry cider, and stock until all the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have married. Once the gravy has reduced and thickened, chopped walnuts get added to the mix for a crunchy contrast to the soft turkey pieces.
This Woman's Response to a Congressman's Claim About Paying For "Pregnancy Insurance" Is Flawless
You'd think that, by now, GOP congressmen would get that their constituents will always voice their opinions. Representative Rod Blum of Iowa apparently didn't get the memo before he spoke at a town hall about "pregnancy insurance" being a "crazy regulation" and apparently didn't think twice about it. He's now in the national spotlight after a woman who was at the event responded in a letter that's now going viral.
On May 8, Blum held a town hall at Dubuque High School in Iowa. The town hall, similar to other ones, did not go well. Plenty of people showed up to protest him and the town hall lasted for more than an hour. One particular moment that made people angry is when Blum spoke about what else he'd like to change in Obamacare with the American Health Care Act. "Get rid of some of these crazy regulations that Obamacare puts in, such as a 62-year-old male having to have pregnancy insurance," said Blum. You can watch a clip of the moment ahead at the 41-minute mark.
As you can see in the clip, people did not like Blum's response at all, including Barbara Rank. The 63-year-old retired special education teacher did not ask Blum a question during the town hall, but instead let her thoughts simmer. She then wrote a letter to the Dubuque Telegraph Herald on May 12 that summed up her feelings as to why people need to pay for something as "crazy" as pregnancy insurance. In it, she wrote, "Why should I pay the salaries of politicians I didn't vote for, a tax cut that doesn't affect me, or a loophole I can't take advantage of? It's called democracy, a civil society, the greater good. That's what we pay for."
Reddit user Shwinstet loved her response so much, they posted it to Reddit.
The Reddit post quickly went viral, unknowingly to Rank. She didn't know more than 100,000 people had seen her response and supported it until her daughter told her, reports The Washington Post. Blum, on the other hand, believes his words don't portray what he actually meant. "He was referring to the idea of patients being able to choose health insurance policies that fit their needs, rather than one size fits all policies filled with government mandates," said a spokesman to The Washington Post.
Perhaps Rank's letter sends a clear message to congresspeople; citizens are watching and listening and won't hesitate to question your actions.
5 Ways to Polish Up Your LinkedIn Profile
Trying to perfect your LinkedIn profile can be an exercise in anxiety management. What do employers want to see? What will make them click away? To get a better handle on profile best practices, we went right to the source: LinkedIn career expert Catherine Fisher.
Some main takeaways: your profile photo matters, so make sure to use a photo "that aligns with your role as a professional, but also makes you approachable." Also, the useful shelf life for professional skills is only five years! So keep honing those business skills.
Scroll on for more ways to make your profile shine bright like a diamond.
The Pope Flawlessly Called Out Trump's Hypocritical Antiabortion Views
Pope Francis has never been one to shy away from expressing his thoughts, especially when it comes to President Donald Trump's administration. Back in February, he threw shade by calling out Trump for his travel ban without even mentioning his name. This time, however, the Pope felt the need to address the president on a far more personal level about his decision to rescind the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, leaving about 800,000 young immigrants subject to deportation and without a path towards citizenship.
As the pope wrapped up a press conference in Colombia on Sept. 10, he spoke about DACA - and how it doesn't match up with Trump's antiabortion views. "The President of the United States presents himself as pro-life and if he is a good pro-lifer, he understands that family is the cradle of life and its unity must be protected," he said. Though the pope admitted he wasn't too well-versed in what DACA was and how it came about, he expressed that he was hopeful that Trump might reconsider his move to rescind it, saying, "I think this law comes not from parliament but from the executive. If that is so, I am hopeful that it will be re-thought."
The Pope isn't alone in this sentiment, or in having sympathy for the DACA recipients who are also known as Dreamers. On Sept. 5, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announced that the Catholic Church would always support the group. "As people of faith, we say to DACA youth - regardless of your immigration status, you are children of God and welcome in the Catholic Church," USCCB said in a statement. "The Catholic Church supports you and will advocate for you." The group also asked Congress to come up with a solution that would help the Dreamers.
As Pope Francis expressed in a TED Talk in April, "We can only build the future by standing together, including everyone." Trump would serve to learn from this statement, as well as the compassion towards Dreamers and immigrants that the Pope and frankly, many Americans, have shown.
You Can Stay in This Game of Thrones Star's Childhood Castle - Yes, Castle
Though staying at Lickleyhead Castle in Aberdeenshire in Scotland may not get you any closer to Kit Harington, it will get you at least a little closer to his new fiancée, Rose Leslie, as it's her childhood home, and her parents are now listing it on Airbnb for rentals. The stunning seven-bedroom, seven-bathroom castle can be rented for about $800 per night.
The Scottish castle is where Rose lived until age 10, and her parents, Sebastian and Candida, still own it. They've run it as a bed and breakfast, but Candida told The Daily Mail that at the encouragement of her children, they decided to start listing it on Airbnb. "It's just keeping up with the times. It's the way things are going. It's quick and clean. Rose uses it in other places. She said, 'Why don't you try it?' and helped me set it up."
The listing for the castle says it is set in a secluded park area surrounded by sprawling lawns and trees. The Leslies recommend it for family gatherings, reunions, and birthday celebrations, as the home, built in 1499, comfortably sleeps 14 people. To get a glimpse at the beautiful interior, keep reading for more.
This Is the Wedding That Brought Together 2 of the Most Powerful Royal Families
Queen Sofía and her husband, King Juan Carlos I, ruled over Spain for 39 years, which is why it might shock you to find out their marriage didn't actually start in the country. The royal couple married in Athens on May 14, 1962, but there's a good reason for why the nuptials didn't take place at the cathedral in Madrid, like the wedding of the current king, their son, Felipe VI.
The now queen consort was then known as Princess Sophia Margarita Victoria Frederica of Greece, the oldest daughter of King Paul and Queen Frederica. She met Prince Juan Carlos on a cruise through the Greek Islands in 1954, and she reconnected with him at a wedding just a year before they married. The third cousins (they are both descendants of Queen Victoria of England) might have wanted their wedding to take place in Spain, but in 1962, Juan Carlos and his family were officially in exile in Rome, since the monarchy was dissolved in 1931 during a period of military rule and political instability.
The couple instead married in Athens in three ceremonies: a Catholic one at the Cathedral of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, a Greek Orthodox one at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Annunciation, and a civil union at the Royal Palace in Athens. Sophia, who wed in a stunning lace dress by Jean Dessès, officially gave up her right to the Greek throne by becoming Roman Catholic and adopting the Spanish spelling of her name. The couple soon was allowed to return to Madrid, and they settled at the Zarzuela Palace before Juan Carlos officially became Prince of Spain in 1969 and king after the death of military dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.
7 Amazingly Innovative Korean Beauty Products Launching For Fall 2017
Korean Beauty products are known for being on the cutting edge of everything cosmetic - making new products even more exciting. For Fall, be sure to try out some of these brand-new K-beauty products packed with skin-loving ingredients that will make you look refreshed and radiant.
Bubble masks, acne pads, and even lip gels will renew your face and get you ready to restart your Fall routine. Read on to find out which K-beauty products need to be on your radar - and in your shopping cart!
20 Beautiful Bronde Color Ideas to Inspire Your Fall-Weather Makeover
While beauty girls have many reasons to love Fall, one of our favorites is that we get to use the season as an excuse to switch up our style. We pull our best vampy lipsticks out of our stashes, all things pumpkin spice are added to our routines, and we add a bit more brooding color to our hair. If you're not quite brave enough to try out smoky lilac strands, consider testing out the more natural - but equally beautiful - dye trend known as bronde hair.
"Bronde hair color is the perfect marriage of blond and brown hair," said Lauren E. Hack, colorist and cofounder of Lauren+Vanessa salon in New York City. The style is typically achieved using balayage, in which color is "swept" on to the hair strand by strand. This melds the hues together, creating a more natural, sun-kissed effect that looks neither definitively blond nor brunette. While it can also be achieved using traditional foils, Hack prefers to combine both techniques to make the ends of her clients' hair look a bit lighter.
While it's usually women with brown- or black-toned hair who opt to test-drive the bronde trend, blondes love it too - it adds dimension to "tired-looking" color. "It's great for the woman who is low-maintenance," Hack added.
If you're uncertain whether this color trend is ideal for you, keep your complexion in mind. "This hair color is flattering on most women, but especially those with olive skin or light beige skin," said Hack, who pointed to Jennifer Lopez as a shining example of gorgeous bronde hair.
Bronde isn't just a hot trend or an excellent option for transitioning your color during the colder months (though it is both!). After you hit up the salon and get this dye job, a mere glance in the mirror at your new style will make you feel ready to conquer the Fall season. Keep reading for some of our favorite examples of bronde hair from Instagram.
If You're Serious About Losing Weight, Follow These 5 Rules
There are definitely some weight-loss rules you can bend a little and still drop pounds. On the other hand, if you're serious about slimming down, here are five strict rules that shouldn't be broken if you want to see the number on your scale go down.
This Irish Family's Insane Story (and Viral Video) Will Make You Laugh Until You Cry
Sometimes, the internet gives the world a gift that no one knew they needed, like "Damn, Daniel" or Salt Bae. The most recent treasure, however, comes from Tadhg Fleming, a 27-year-old who lives in Kerry, Ireland. On Sept. 5, Fleming uploaded a video to Facebook of what happened after a bat flew into his family's kitchen. The video has it all: a bat flying around evading capture; Fleming's dad, Derry, failing to get the bat; Maureen, Fleming's mom, watching the whole thing unfold through a door; and their new puppy, Basil, peeing on the kitchen floor. The video went viral, both on Facebook and Twitter, and the Fleming family's fame led them to an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where they discussed the incident and even threw in a special dance for Jimmy Kimmel.
In case you haven't seen the video, which has more than 2.2 million views, 19,000 comments, 30,000 shares, and 27,000 reactions, please watch it below. Turn on the sound, grab some tissues, and prepare to cry from laughing so damn hard.
So a Bat flew into our house last night.... safe to say it was dealt with in a calm and mannerly fashion 🦇😂😂😂 #catchhimderry #pupgotexcited
"For any licensing requests please contact licensing@break.com"Posted by Tadhg Fleming on Tuesday, September 5, 2017
The video, as you can see, deserves an award and one very special place in the internet hall of fame. And in case you were wondering, Fleming told the BBC that the bat flew into the home when his mother opened the back door. Thanks to Maureen and that bat, the world now has "Catch him Derry" and BatDad to thank for a whole new meme. The video was also posted to Twitter on Sept. 5 by Jonathan Hopkins with the tweet: "The world is going to hell. You owe it to yourself to watch this video of Irish people attempting to get a bat out of the kitchen."
The Fleming family revealed to Kimmel that this wasn't the first time they've had a wild animal come into their home. A robin snuck into their sitting room last year, which Fleming astutely pointed out "was only natural . . . Batman and Robin." Watch the full interview above, and stay tuned until the very end for an incredibly random surprise from Derry.
This Irish Family's Insane Story (and Viral Video) Will Make You Laugh Until You Cry
Sometimes, the internet gives the world a gift that no one knew they needed, like "Damn, Daniel" or Salt Bae. The most recent treasure, however, comes from Tadhg Fleming, a 27-year-old who lives in Kerry, Ireland. On Sept. 5, Fleming uploaded a video to Facebook of what happened after a bat flew into his family's kitchen. The video has it all: a bat flying around evading capture; Fleming's dad, Derry, failing to get the bat; Maureen, Fleming's mom, watching the whole thing unfold through a door; and their new puppy, Basil, peeing on the kitchen floor. The video went viral, both on Facebook and Twitter, and the Fleming family's fame led them to an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where they discussed the incident and even threw in a special dance for Jimmy Kimmel.
In case you haven't seen the video, which has more than 2.2 million views, 19,000 comments, 30,000 shares, and 27,000 reactions, please watch it below. Turn on the sound, grab some tissues, and prepare to cry from laughing so damn hard.
So a Bat flew into our house last night.... safe to say it was dealt with in a calm and mannerly fashion 🦇😂😂😂 #catchhimderry #pupgotexcited
"For any licensing requests please contact licensing@break.com"Posted by Tadhg Fleming on Tuesday, September 5, 2017
The video, as you can see, deserves an award and one very special place in the internet hall of fame. And in case you were wondering, Fleming told the BBC that the bat flew into the home when his mother opened the back door. Thanks to Maureen and that bat, the world now has "Catch him Derry" and BatDad to thank for a whole new meme. The video was also posted to Twitter on Sept. 5 by Jonathan Hopkins with the tweet: "The world is going to hell. You owe it to yourself to watch this video of Irish people attempting to get a bat out of the kitchen."
The Fleming family revealed to Kimmel that this wasn't the first time they've had a wild animal come into their home. A robin snuck into their sitting room last year, which Fleming astutely pointed out "was only natural . . . Batman and Robin." Watch the full interview above, and stay tuned until the very end for an incredibly random surprise from Derry.
Vitiligo Dolls Now Exist, Because Barbie Isn't For Everyone
Sorry, Barbie, there's a new doll in town! Kay Black, the artist behind Kay Customz, has handmade customized dolls with vitiligo to bring diversity into children's lives. For children with the skin pigmentation condition, these dolls are an incredible way to boost self-esteem and remind them that they are beautiful.
While the beauty industry has made many changes to celebrate diversity, these dolls can teach children to celebrate differences at a young age. Black paints porcelain dolls with unique patterns to represent real women with the skin condition, and she was reportedly inspired by Winnie Harlow, who has vitiligo. The Canadian model was discovered as a contestant on America's Next Top Model in 2014 and has since shaken up the industry. She's never let her condition stop her from following her dreams, and these dolls can teach children to do the same.
Read on to see photos of the beautiful dolls.
Is a Disneyland Pass Worth It? We Asked Pass-Holders to Find Out
Disneyland is literally my happy place, and I try to go as often as I can - but I've never had an annual pass (I know, I'm shocked myself). This Fall I have two trips planned, so I thought maybe this is the year I pull the trigger on joining the pass-holder club. Since it's freaking expensive - and I live in Northern California - I reached out to some people who either currently have or have had passes in the past to see if it's worth it. If you're also considering shelling out the dough for an annual Disneyland pass, read these pros and cons first!
Why It's Worth It:
- "When friends come to visit and want to go to Disneyland, it's super convenient to already have a pass to be able to meet up or tag along with them."
- "Getting to experience all the seasons (well, seasonal decorations at least) and new attractions as they open is the best. Having a year-round pass lets you see and do it all."
- "The novelty of going to Disneyland for just one thing like getting a yummy cocktail at Carthay Circle in California Adventure or taking a sunset ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat feels really special and magical."
- "Going on a solo Disney trip is actually really fun. You can ride attractions alone (single-rider lines for the win!), eat at restaurants alone, and we promise it's not as weird as it sounds!"
- "Because I go to Disneyland several times a year, it is cheaper for me to buy the pass as opposed to purchasing a park hopper ticket each visit. Furthermore, having a pass means I don't feel guilty if I only go for a half a day or a few hours, because I didn't pay for a full day."
- "My churro consumption has definitely gone up, and I'm not complaining."
- "Having a pass means that people tend to invite me along if they're heading to Disneyland, which is a major plus."
- "The discounts don't hurt either - bring on the reduced-cost Disney apparel and cheaper lobster nachos."
- "One of my favorite things about the annual pass is you get a 20 percent discount on any merch you buy in the park and 10 percent off dining, which really comes in handy (especially for me)."
- "You never have to worry about whether or not you have access to both parks. There are some blackout dates, but they're usually the very popular weekends, which I try to avoid anyway because of lines so that's never really an issue. I think it also comes with free parking, but I've never taken advantage of that since I'm always coming from out of town. Usually if I go twice a year for two or three days, the cost takes care of itself!"
- "You don't have to wait in line to get a hand stamp when you leave a park since your photo is on the card. I know this doesn't sound like a big deal but it actually makes a huge difference, especially if you have to book it from Disneyland over to California Adventures to catch the next showing of Aladdin (or Frozen now) at The Hyperion."
- "I never felt rushed to see or ride everything in a day, and I could arrive late or leave early without feeling guilty. It made me appreciate the tiny details of the parks more. The 15 percent discounts on merchandise and food helped out too!"
- "It was absolutely worth it. Especially while I was dating my then-boyfriend. Date nights were way more fun, and trips to Disney were far less pressure because you don't have to stress about fitting EVERYTHING into one trip. You get a discount on food, can join in with friends whenever people from out of town want to come visit, and can just head in for a night of a couple rides and dinner if you so choose. If it's too hot or crowded, just leave! You can always come back."
Why It's Not Worth It:
- "The concept of 'just popping in after work for a few rides or to watch the fireworks' sounds really simple in theory, but the reality is that once you add in commutes both ways, traffic, finding parking, and walking to the park, it's never quite that simple. I found myself going way less spontaneously than I thought I would, especially when I don't have friends with passes."
- "The first time I had it (when I paid for it) I think I did go enough times to make the cost worth it. This last time (when someone else had bought my pass as a gift) I think I only went like four or five times total in the year, which doesn't fully even out."
- "The pass does put a little bit of pressure on me to make sure I use it enough times throughout the year to feel 'worth it,' but this pressure results in more Disney visits, which is always a good thing."
- "I believe I went over 20 times within a year. I spent WAY more than I intended in all since I had to pay for gas (from San Jose, CA), food (breakfast, lunch, dinner), hotels, gifts, etc. I could have potentially gone on multiple cruises or to Hawaii or Asia or something with the total amount I spent on those trips. Was it worth it? At the time, yes. Looking back on it, I think a three-day park hopper would have been enough."
- "Totally worth it if you live in Southern California . . . may not be worth it if you live farther."
This Is the Workout I Did For 1 Year That Finally Helped Me Lose My Belly Fat
Last July, I only signed up for a month of CrossFit so I could write a post about how stupid I thought it was. Coming from a running and yoga background, and never once setting foot in a gym, I thought those people doing countless burpees, flipping tires, and grunting while lifting weights were nuts. I'm the first to admit that I was absolutely wrong. After just one month, CrossFit jump-started the most life-changing physical and mostly mental transformation I have ever experienced (aside from becoming a mom).
I decided to commit to CrossFit for an entire year, going four to six times per week, to see what would happen. I just hit my one-year CrossFitversary (fist bump to me!) and feel compelled to share my experiences in the hopes that they might inspire someone else who is thinking about trying CrossFit to finally take the (box)jump!
Before: July 2016
My journey actually didn't really go as planned, so I wanted to map out each month so you can see that progress wasn't all uphill for me. There were a few times when I actually lost faith in CrossFit and wanted to throw in the kettlebell towel - sorry, these puns are just too easy! I think anyone on any sort of fitness or weight-loss journey will be able to relate to this.
Throughout the 12 months, I weighed myself regularly and took monthly photos, just because I'm a science nerd and wanted to have actual data to compare from month to month. The numbers actually kind of shocked me.
Month 1, July: Starting weight: 122 pounds. Feeling awesome, I just wanted to get into the groove of learning all the different exercises and the correct form. I gave up running for CrossFit - bye-bye hour-long runs and hello seven- to 12-minute WODs! Goal number one: do a pull-up.
Month 2, August: Weight: 118 pounds. Still on my CrossFit high, I was actually bummed that I had to miss about two weeks of classes because of traveling, but I tried to do workouts while on the road, like this 200-rep bodyweight workout.
Month 3, September: Weight: 121 pounds. I climbed a frickin' 15-foot rope! Enough said. I also hurt my back in the middle of the month, putting too much weight on the bar when doing front squats (I was trying to keep up with the 60-year-old woman next to me!). So I took a little break, worried that maybe people were right about CrossFit causing injuries. But after a few days, I felt fine. It was a good lesson in not allowing my ego to get the best of me and in paying more attention to my body and my ability level.
After: July 2017
Month 4, October: Weight: 122 pounds. The weather was starting to get chilly and the mornings a little darker, but I still stuck with getting up at 4:40 a.m. for those 5:45 workouts. I was really starting to get to know my CrossFit community, and every night these two women and I would text each other: "Class tomorrow?" It helped motivate me to go, even when I was insanely tired or sore.
Month 5, November: Weight: 123 pounds. After four months, my arms and back started getting thicker, my sports bras and jeans felt tighter, and I actually wanted to quit CrossFit and stopped going for few days. I was pissed that I was getting up so goddamn early every day, working my ass off, and eating clean . . . and still had my baby belly. My husband was actually the one who convinced me to stick with it, knowing how happy it made me, and how strong and confident I was feeling. Other women at my gym also made me feel better about my muscles bulking up a little, reminding me not to focus on how I looked, but on what I could accomplish. They also said that for them, nine months was when they started to lose weight, so I stuck with it.
Month 6, December: Weight: 124 pounds. For some reason, I thought the six-month mark would be monumental and I would finally have the slim and ripped body I was convinced CrossFit would offer me. So when I compared photos from Month 1 to Month 6, I was embarrassed that my body wasn't there yet. I had to remind myself that any progress was still progress, no matter how small, and it motivated me even more to push myself during those workouts and stick to eating healthy.
After: July 2017
Month 7, January: Weight: 126 pounds. Holidays + my birthday = tons of cookies, overeating, not exercising much, and feeling like crap. Oh well. I did finally get two strict pull-ups: goal crushed! I didn't think it'd take me seven months, but better late than never.
I also had conflicting emotions about adding weight to my bar because I was worried that lifting heavier would make me bulk up even more. So I started to back off on the weight. One day my coach, Kristi, joked a little and said, "Sugar, your bar is looking a little light." So I told her my concerns, and she admitted to having the same thoughts when she started CrossFit six years ago. She basically threw out her scale and slowly started to fall in love with feeling strong, and now she loves her big muscles. "I wish mine were bigger," she said. So that started to change my perspective about how I felt women were supposed to look and how I thought I wanted to look. I said, "F*ck it!" and started adding more weight and really challenging myself. It's an amazing feeling to press a heavy bar over your head!
Month 8, February: Weight: 123 pounds. After seven months of doing CrossFit, I felt like I was gaining muscle, but I still had a layer of fat that wouldn't budge. I knew it had everything to do with me eating too much! Aside from giving up sugar for the month of January, about halfway through the month I started doing intermittent fasting (IF) to see if it would help.
Month 9, March: Weight: 123 pounds. I did three ring pull-ups! I also completed one month of intermittent fasting and noticed my belly getting a little slimmer. Woot!
After: July 2017
Month 10, April: Weight: 123 pounds. This is the month I noticed my upper-body strength coming in handy during yoga. I could now hold handstands for over 20 seconds. And with two months of IF under my belt, I was starting to see some definition in my abs! Lifting heavier and pushing myself more during workouts coupled with getting a handle on my diet are what really started to make my body transform.
Month 11, May: Weight: 124 pounds. I pressed into a handstand, crushing a goal I've had ever since I started yoga in 1999. And after three months of continuing with IF, I was pretty psyched that my baby belly fat started to shrink more, even though the scale showed weight gain. I was also drinking more water (like a gallon a day), which helped with eating less and belly bloat.
Month 12, June: Weight: 122 pounds. The final month of my year-long CrossFit journey, I experimented a little more with my diet to try to solve some bloating issues, and I committed to a two-week fruit, veggie, and nut diet, which helped reveal my first glimpses of a real six-pack. I actually wore a bikini at a public pool for the first time ever, which for me was a HUGE deal. But even huger was the fact that from kettlebell swings to wall balls to overhead squats, I was lifting way more than I was when I started. I not only looked stronger; I WAS stronger!
Final Thoughts
I drank the CrossFit Kool-Aid and now I'm hooked. I am so grateful for the inner strength and confidence I feel every day, in the gym and in my life. The absolute greatest benefit is the freedom I feel from the constant negative thoughts I used to have about my body, of always trying to lose weight and get leaner and more toned. Of incessantly thinking about food: what I should eat, what I shouldn't eat, feeling bad when I ate too much, and worrying about when I was going to fit in my next workout. And what I was doing wasn't working at all, so it's an amazing feeling to put in the effort and actually see results. And I'm not done yet. I just signed up for a year-long membership so I can crush some more goals - muscle up; I'm coming for ya!
I know what you're thinking - that CrossFit is cult-like or too extreme or "not your thing" - because I was there, too. I thought it was only for burly men or athletic women or 20-year-olds or people who are already crazy-fit. But anyone can benefit from CrossFit, no matter their ability level or age (there's a 72-year-old woman in my class who can deadlift as much as me!). Everyone has to start somewhere, and I'm so glad I took the plunge a year ago. CrossFit is hands down one of the best things that's ever happened to me, because it's helped me love myself in a way that I never thought possible, and that love spreads out into every aspect of my life. It could be the same for you, but you'll never know unless you try. So what are you waiting for?
3 Things You Need to Be Focusing on If You Want to Up Your Fitness Game
We've all been there: out of breath, over it, and ready to throw in our gym towels and never look back. Oftentimes this happens because we're not seeing progress with our workouts, at least not the kind we were expecting. What gives? To get to the bottom of what's stalling our progress, we turned to personal trainer Austin Lopez, CSCS.
More often than not, it's likely that the "overload principle" is being ignored, Austin told POPSUGAR. A basic tenet in training, the overload principle is easy to grasp and makes total sense. Put simply, we need to consistently be working harder to see change. "You have to push yourself more because the body is good at adapting to whatever you throw at it," Austin said. If you want to see changes, you need to change it up - and often. But you don't need to go into it blindly. In fact, there's a ton of evidence on exactly where you should devote your efforts.
1. Time and Frequency
You don't necessarily have to give up the classes you love or your sacred time on the treadmill; just do more of what you're already doing. This can happen in a lot of ways, said Austin. For starters, add an extra class or gym session onto your schedule. If that's not possible, try adding time to your existing workouts. Instead of a 45-minute TRX class, look for a 60-minute class; even challenging yourself to an extra 10 minutes on the treadmill can lead to results.
2. Speed
When it comes to cardio-based workouts like running, cycling, or time on the elliptical, challenge yourself to increase your overall pace. If you usually run an 11-minute mile, start to shave that down to a 10-minute mile by slowly increasing the speed of your runs. You can also work on speed by incorporating interval training into your cardio and strength workouts by alternating between a period of maxing out your efforts with a period of recovery. Think HIIT, Tabata, and tempo runs.
This type of increased intensity will also aid in weight loss, said Austin. "From an exercise perspective, interval training is the most effective way to get lean," he said. "The more intense the workout, the more the body has to recover, which translates into more calories over time." This is due to the afterburn effect (excess postexercise oxygen consumption, or EPOC), which helps to increase your metabolism, resulting in hundreds of extra calories to be burned throughout the day.
3. Load
The easiest way to think about load is to equate it with weight. Essentially you're "loading" the body up with more weight and challenging it to work harder. The next time you're in a strength-training class or at the gym, choose a heavier weight than you're used to. You may be surprised that you can actually manage more than you thought possible. If more weight seems daunting, start by doing shorter sets with less reps. "By going heavier, you'll be breaking down muscle at a higher rate, making it stronger than it was before," said Austin.
The Right Way to Incorporate Frequency, Speed, and Load
If you've hit a wall, there's no better time than now to start upping your intensity in one of these areas. While Austin's advice is to go "as intense as you can," he added that this is all relative to the individual. "The more intense you make any workout, the more unsafe it can become," he said. "Ease into it, and find out what's possible for you." While you are tasking yourself with going harder, you still want to make sure your form is on and you aren't feeling lightheaded or dizzy while working out. "Push it little by little," said Austin.
A good way to keep yourself safe is by focusing on only one of these areas at a time (frequency, speed, load). Besides preventing injury, "it's also a great way to measure your success rate because it controls one variable."
This Secret Indian Hair-Growth Formula May Finally Give You a Mermaid Mane
Anyone who has unsuccessfully tried to get their hair to grow may roll their eyes at this video in which Prachi (the vlogger behind Super Wow Style) shares a family recipe for lengthier locks. Could a simple mix of natural ingredients really make hair grow up to 30-40 percent as Prachi claims? We were a bit skeptical, too, and while we have not tried this remedy, a look at Prachi's long shiny mane and reading the reviewers' testimonials is making us reconsider. Perhaps this is the holistic answer to getting the mermaid mane of your dreams. In fact, Prachi challenges viewers to take before and after images when they test the treatment.
"People ask, 'How does you hair grow?' and I give them the same answer," she says in the video. "I learned it from my mom, and she learned is from her mother. It's an old Indian secret."
To DIY it, you'll need: coconut oil, castor oil, vitamin E, aloe vera leaves, and two bowls (one small and one large). Start by cutting up the aloe vera leaves, and then scratch it with a knife or fork to scrape out more gel. Rub the leaf on your scalp and massage the aloe gel into your roots. Use your fingers to make sure it's all over your head.
Then, in a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of castor oil with 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Pierce the vitamin E capsule with needle, extract the oil, and add it to the formula. Place the small bowl with the three oils in a larger one containing hot water. Warning: do not place the oil directly on a fire (including a stove) or in microwaves, since it can catch fire immediately.
After five minutes, the hot oil should be ready. Use your fingertips to apply it onto your scalp. Lay down on a sofa or the like and gently massage it into your scalp for two to three minutes. "This is very important to increase blood circulation for hair growth," she explains.
Once you're done, weave your hair in tight braid and sleep on it. Wash you hair in the morning. According to Prachi, you will start seeing a difference in your hair length "very, very soon."
While she does not specify how often to do the treatment, reviewers offer their successful trials.
"I tried this method exactly as she explained to and it WORKED!" one commenter said. "My hair grew about 4 to 5 inches in about 3 months! I did it 2 x per week for a month. Then 1 x per week for the next 2 months. It made my hair so healthy and strong. Everyone kept commenting on how fast my hair grew and how long it is. Before I started my hair was bra strap length. Now it is to my hips! I don't have photos to post, because I seriously hate taking photos of myself since I have gained weight (next thing to work on) but I will consider it."
Another commenter said, "I watched your video and used these products! And it works like MAGIC. I don't know how but my hair grew in a week. I used it two times a week though aloe vera was not available! But castor oil is super! Hats off!"
A third remarked, "It's amazing . . . I've seen results in just 2 wash[es] . . . My hair [ha]s became more silky and the best part it made my hair 2.5 cm longer."
So, what do you think? Is this a hoax or the most genius hair hack ever?
A Fat-Burning 20-Minute Treadmill Workout You Can Do on Your Lunch Break
You've probably run into days before when you're so busy that you don't have time to get to the gym before or after work. Rather than tossing in the towel and counting your losses, consider sneaking in a quick midday workout that you can accomplish on your lunch break.
If you want to get your heart rate up in a jiffy and sweat your butt off, consider an interval treadmill workout. Michael Olzinski, MSc, Purplepatch endurance coach and Equinox run coach, designed an exclusive 20-minute running session that is bound to improve your cardiovascular health, burn fat, and give you a natural glow.
"In this session, you are going to have the opportunity to run hard and fast for some short intervals," Mike told POPSUGAR. "This is hard, but really fun if you do it right!"
Before you get scared off and insist that you're not a strong enough runner for this kind of workout, Mike says this kind of session will "really improve your technique," so you've got a lot to gain by putting in your full effort. "This is a style of work where you switch on the sequence and depth of each and every muscle involved with your run," he explained. "This means it can help develop your running muscles and running form."
Bonus: "The high-demand of these intervals should keep your engine revved up for the rest of your day, which would increase your normal calorie expenditure," Mike said. What does that mean? You'll burn more calories throughout the day.
The Workout
This workout is pretty straightforward. You'll be running 30-second intervals, each followed by a 60-second rest, and there are two main speeds you need to decide for yourself before you get started. Here's how Mike describes them.
- Sprint: "This is your highest speed that you can hit with good form and with the ability to improve. The way I would determine this speed to begin is to figure out what your best training speed for one minute would be. What is a one-minute speed that pushes you very hard? That will be your starting speed for these 30-second intervals."
- Recovery: "Most people will be using a simple power walk here, but a more advanced runner could use a very light jog just to stay loose and active. Your heart rate and breathing need to drop, and you need to feel good for your next run."
The first half of the workout will work on increasing incline, while keeping your sprint speed the same. But the second half is when you tack on a little more speed. Let's say your sprint speed is 8.0 mph. If you see Sprint + 0.3 mph, then your new speed is 8.3. At this point in your workout, you'll be decreasing the incline so you can really concentrate on your speed. The very last interval is meant for you to go as fast as you can, so don't be afraid to push yourself!
Finally, don't forget the importance of the warmup. "This is a very important part of the session and your chance to improve the way you run if you do this frequently enough," Mike added. You'll see the warmup exercises marked as High Knees and Skipping. When you're performing these, make sure you bring your treadmill down to a low speed so you don't feel like you're losing control. Somewhere between 2.0 and 3.0 mph is a good number to aim for. If this still makes you feel uncomfortable, feel free to do these movements off the treadmill.
After going through five minutes of these dynamic running drills, you'll be ready to push it to your full effort.
| Time | Speed | Incline |
|---|---|---|
| 0:00-0:30 | High knees | 0.0 |
| 0:30-1:00 | Skipping | 0.0 |
| 1:00-1:30 | High knees | 0.0 |
| 1:30-2:00 | Skipping | 0.0 |
| 2:00-2:30 | High knees | 0.0 |
| 2:30-3:00 | Skipping | 0.0 |
| 3:00-5:00 | Light jog | 0.0 |
| 5:00-5:30 | Sprint | 2.0 |
| 5:30-6:30 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 6:30-7:00 | Sprint | 2.5 |
| 7:00-8:00 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 8:00-8:30 | Sprint | 3.0 |
| 8:30-9:30 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 9:30-10:00 | Sprint | 3.5 |
| 10:0-11:00 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 11:00-11:30 | Sprint | 4.0 |
| 11:30-12:30 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 12:30-13:00 | Sprint + 0.3 mph | 3.5 |
| 13:00-14:00 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 14:00-14:30 | Sprint + 0.3 mph | 3.0 |
| 14:30-15:30 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 15:30-16:00 | Sprint + 0.3 mph | 2.5 |
| 16:00-17:00 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 17:00-17:30 | Sprint + 0.3 mph | 2.0 |
| 17:30-18:30 | Recovery | 0.0 |
| 18:30-19:00 | Best Sprint! | 1.0 |
| 19:00-20:00 | Recovery | 0.0 |
5 Things to Know About Kamala Harris's Husband, Douglas Emhoff
Senator Kamala Harris is quickly becoming a household name for her refusal to be silenced or interrupted by her male colleagues. And since some are already speculating about a possible 2020 presidential run for Harris, interest in her personal life has grown. Here's what you need to know about her husband, Douglas Emhoff.
He's also a lawyer.
Emhoff is currently the managing West Coast director at Venable LLP. According to his LinkedIn profile, he's held the position since he joined in 2006.
Emhoff recently took the bar again.
Though Emhoff is based in LA, he recently took the bar in Washington DC and was sworn in on March 10.
My swearing in ceremony for DC Bar today with my lovely wife @KamalaHarris. http://pic.twitter.com/PrsQSZOage
- Douglas Emhoff (@douglasemhoff) March 10, 2017
He met Harris on a blind date.
Emhoff, who was previously married and has two children, met Harris on a blind date that was "set up by a close friend of Harris's," according to SFGate. The two were married in August 2014 at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Harris's sister, also a lawyer, officiated the ceremony.
His biggest mistake was lashing out in court.
In an interview with Law360, Emhoff retells a story of his earlier days in law, when he loudly accused another lawyer of lying in court. Though he contends that the other lawyer truly was lying, he learned that "you don't lose your cool, ever, and just file away the information to be used at the appropriate time, in an appropriate manner." In the same interview, he revealed that his toughest lawsuit was against a con man in Orange County, CA. The suit, which was brought up by "a group of Midwestern investors," was difficult but settled in trial. Since then, he's even kept in touch with the investors.
Emhoff's and Harris's tax returns show they earned $1.7 million in 2015.
According to the Sacramento Bee, which asked for the then-Senate candidate's tax returns in 2016, the form also revealed that the two paid about $450,000 in state and federal income taxes and gave $32,947 to charity.
If you're interested in following Harris's life from her husband's viewpoint, you can follow Emhoff on Twitter, where he keeps an active presence and posts photos of them together.
Pre Howard U Commencement address with my amazing wife and proud Howard grad @KamalaHarris! http://pic.twitter.com/ctGVVKyfxG
- Douglas Emhoff (@douglasemhoff) May 13, 2017
The Horrifying Way Improperly Removing Acrylics Can Harm Your Nails
If you have chronically short nails, it's tempting to get long and stylish acrylics. Beauty blogger Amelia Perrin has a serious acrylic-nail addiction and frequently posts photos of her lengthy artificial talons on Instagram. She gets many compliments on her claws, but wanted to warn people of the negative side effects.
On Twitter, Amelia revealed what happened when she ripped off her acrylics with a painful-looking photo. In another tweet, Amelia said that even the hot water in the shower was painful on her sensitive nails.
Professional manicurist and Gelish Educator Danielle Candido has some good news for beauty junkies that just can't kick the habit. "You can continuously wear acrylic without damaging your nails – the potential for it damaging your nails depends a lot on the quality of the product and the training of the nail tech," Candido explained via email. She also warned against using any product containing Methyl Methacrylate (MMA), an illegal monomer liquid which severely damages the nail (but sometimes shows up at discount salons because it is inexpensive).
Another way to protect your natural nail is to make sure your tech doesn't overfile your nail prior to application; you'll know it's being overfiled if you feel any soreness or pain. Most importantly, never rip off your acrylic nails. "It literally pulls pieces of the nail off with it if you remove [them] improperly," explained Candido.
To make sure your digits stay healthy while wearing acrylics, Candido suggests using cuticle oil daily, twice a day. If your nails are already damaged, use nail treatments to nourish your nails, like the Morgan Taylor Go Ahead and Grow Treatment Base Coat ($6), and give your natural nails a break from the damage.
Read on to see the damage that results from removing acrylic nails at home.
This Flawless 46-Year-Old Model Will Make You Question Your Antiaging Routine
You might be familiar with the old saying "age ain't nothing but a number." This model is living proof of that motto.
Tokyo-based model Risa Hirako is known for showing off her flawless complexion on her Instagram feed. However, her fans are not just floored by her good looks but also by her age. According to Wikipedia, she was born in 1971, making her 45.
Many internet users are in complete disbelief that her smooth skin is that of a 45-year-old woman, but we're not shocked at all. Asian women are known around the globe for using innovative (and intensive) beauty routines to preserve their youthful glow. And while we'd definitely love to know the specific products she uses, we can imagine they are likely part of a 10-step regimen.
There are plenty of ways to care for your skin so you can age as gracefully as Risa. Even better, maintaining youthful skin doesn't have to be costly or include needles. Consistent use of SPF and incorporating antiaging serums into your routine are both great starting points, no matter how young or old you are.
No matter what Risa's beauty secrets are, there's no denying that she is absolutely gorgeous! Scroll through to see more of her viral selfies that have the internet buzzing.
The 1 Floral Scent Both Kate Middleton and Princess Diana Wore For Their Weddings
Image Source: Getty
To paraphrase The Devil Wears Prada, florals for a Spring wedding may not exactly be groundbreaking, but, according to Marie Claire UK, the scent has been good enough for the past two royal weddings. As it turns out, both Princess Diana and Kate Middleton both reached for two different (and extremely luxurious) flower fragrances.
When Princes Diana walked down the aisle to marry Prince Charles on July 29, 1981, millions of people watched. So it would make sense that the 20-year-old, who has reportedly only been on 12 dates with her future husband, would get a little nervous. As legend has it, Princess Diana was so shaky that she spilled her perfume, Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant Paris ($190), all over herself - and her now-famous dress.
The scent, which was supposedly her go-to, can still be purchased today - but it sounds almost too extravagant to spray. That's because one ounce of Quelques Fleurs is made up of around 15,000 flowers. The florals in question are rose, orange blossom, and lily of the valley. (Remember that last ingredient!)
When Kate Middleton became a Duchess on April 29, 2011, she chose a softer, more tropical tone. As per usual with any beauty product Kate Middleton uses, Illuminum's White Gardenia Petals sold out pretty much instantly once it was revealed to be the royal wedding fragrance.
Perhaps this choice included a small nod to Kate's late mother-in-law, as it carries a top note of lily. Brides-to-be: guess it's time to stock up on lily?
I Wrote Down Something I Was Grateful For Every Day For 8 Days, and Here's What Happened
You know when you're in a black hole of b*tching to your friends/family/anyone who will listen about the most mundane things, and someone responds to your complaints with "it could always be worse" (which is probably the last thing you want to hear while you're complaining)? We are a society of complainers; we complain on social media, we complain to our colleagues, and we even make friends by way of complaining.
I decided I was done complaining (LOL, yeah right), at least for a week. I woke up every day and wrote down something I was grateful for. It sounds ubercheesy and you might be rolling your eyes as you read this, but let me tell you, I had a pretty f*cking good week. I woke up every morning and was forced to focus on something positive, and I also learned that I am grateful for a variety of strange and specific things. No judgments, please.
How This Woman Retired at Age 32 - and Says You Can Too
Anita Dhake is retired. At 32 years old, she walked away from her well-paid job as a lawyer and hasn't looked back since. Yes, she racked up almost $100,000 of debt during three years of law school, but once she got out of school, Anita took a different approach than many of her peers chose. After graduating from the University of Chicago's law school, she decided she would work hard until she paid off her debt and saved enough to retire as soon as possible. She did the math, and that meant quitting once she had saved 25 years' worth of living expenses, which she would keep relatively low. She wouldn't have a fancy car or house, but would make up for it with the personal freedom and energy to check off her personal bucket list. After five years of working and maintaining a frugal lifestyle, Anita reached her goal and left the office for good.
Anita's story almost sounds too good to be true, but after talking to her, I realized that she's simply making trade-offs available to many other young people - even those who don't pull in a six-figure salary. Since retiring in 2015, Anita now writes about her life as a financially independent 30-something on her blog The Power of Thrift and believes other young people can retire early, too. Even though she's retired, Anita is still productive and growing; she travels the world and even wrote a book, set to come out later this year. But instead of doing this "work" for the money, she does it for the pleasure of improving her life. If you want to know her secrets, including the practicality of how she actually invests her savings to make it last, read our interview below.
How to Prepare For (Very) Early Retirement
POPSUGAR: How much money do people generally need to save to retire early?
AD: You need about 25 times your yearly expenses to be safe. The less you need, the sooner you can retire. The day I quit, I had $690,000. It's almost two years later, and I've earned perhaps $400 from my blog, but my net worth is now more than $800,000 thanks to investments.
PS: Could you share how much you made each year as a lawyer? Out of that, how much did you spend vs. save?
AD: My starting salary was $160,000. By my last year, I made about $320,000. I was living in Sydney, Australia, and got a cost of living adjustment plus bonuses. I never saved less than 75 percent of my paycheck. Sometimes as high as 90 percent. My expenses in Chicago were around $1,500-$2,000 per month. In Australia, it was maybe $3,000 or so.
PS: Do you think someone with a lower salary could retire early, too?
AD: It's more about your savings rate than your income. With a lower salary, of course it will take longer than my five years working as a lawyer, but isn't retiring at 45 still better than retiring at 65? If you think it will be impossible to retire early, then it will be. It takes creativity and determination, but it's possible.
PS: What is the first thing a young person should do if they want to retire early?
People don't track their spending, so they have no idea how much they're actually wasting on short-term happiness splurges.
AD: Ask themselves why and what kind of life they want. Then work toward that life. I wanted to travel and sleep in and write and read and just generally be a bum. Every time my alarm clock woke me up for work, I'd reiterate to myself what I wanted. Keep in mind the big goal so you're not distracted by the shiny objects of everyday life. Know what you're working toward.
It's easy to get lost in the day to day. That's the point of working. To buy stuff. Keep your eye on the big prize and go for the big and harder happiness. The autonomy. The ability to design your own life. I also think people don't track their spending, so they have no idea how much they're actually wasting on short-term happiness splurges that fade way too quickly for how much of your precious money you just wasted on it.
Anita uses her newfound freedom to travel the world, including Rio de Janeiro, where she took this photo.
How to Make Sure You Don't Run Out of Money
PS: How do you make money today if you're not working?
AD: There are different paths to financial independence, but I took the lazy path. My investment vehicle of choice for my savings is VTSAX, which is the total stock market index fund from Vanguard. With my strategy, I'm betting on civilization continuing. I pay the lowest amount of fees possible. Fees are what ruin your portfolio.
PS: So your long-term "savings" plan is to live off the gains from the original money you saved and invested?
AD: The market returns, on average, seven percent per year. I guesstimate I'll lose three percent for inflation. This means I can take out four percent each year and still maintain my buying power and not touch the principal [the original $690,000 she saved]. Theoretically. So far, so good. Also, I practice sensible flexibility. I recently spent about $7,500 crossing off life bucket list item number six - writing a book. So I house-sat for five months instead of renting.
PS: You mention you need to save 25 times your yearly expenses, which would be about about $27,000 per year for you. Did you accurately estimate your yearly expenses? Do you still feel comfortable living within that budget?
I buy everything I want, whenever I want. The key is, I just don't want that much.
AD: I've been tracking my expenses for years, so I knew exactly what I needed. So far, I've always spent way under what I'm "allowed" to spend per my retirement chart. I'm not concerned at all. I buy everything I want, whenever I want. The key is, I just don't want that much. I know what makes me happy and buy that. I also have a lot more time to save creatively. It's cheaper to fly on a Tuesday than a Friday. I can house-sit all over the world. I can always alter my extravagant lifestyle, hang out in a cheap country for a bit. It's about sensible flexibility.
PS: You're still young so a lot could change in your life, including adding a romantic partner or child or dealing with an unexpected health issue. How do you think that would impact your financial independence?
AD: If I were to find a romantic partner - which I hope happens! - I imagine my finances would improve. I'd have someone to split housing expenses with. I'd eat more dinners at home. I feel asinine talking about kids when I don't have any, but I do think kids don't need as much stuff as we buy them. The most valuable thing you can give your child is your time. And isn't childcare the most expensive part of having children? If you don't work, you can stay at home home with them. I know people who have used cloth diapers and made their own baby food. I wouldn't save for my child's education. I graduated with student loans and think it gave me perspective. It's better when everything isn't handed to you. Again, I'm childless and single, so feel free to scoff and ignore me here.
A health scare is the hardest part for me. But there's a good possibility I could go bankrupt if I got sick with excellent health insurance. There are too many holes in that system. I've read about people going to other countries and paying out of pocket where it's cheaper. I know that's not a satisfying answer.
Early retirement gives Anita time to meet new people, read new books, and, perhaps most importantly, sleep in.
What It's Actually Like to Be Retired in Your 30s
PS: How did your friends and family take the news that you wanted to retire at 32?
I'd been talking about retiring early for years before pulling the trigger. I paid off nearly $100,000 in student loans in a year and wouldn't shut up about it. I had a retirement chart where I tracked my expenses and my projected passive income and I showed it to anyone who expressed interest. By the time I pulled the trigger, people expected it. My family in particular just sees it as normal and "Anita" because I've been obsessed with the idea for ages. I also tried to talk to all my friends about it because I think it's so attainable if it's even a little bit appealing. It just takes focus and creativity.
PS: What would you say to people who worry they would be bored in early retirement? Or that they would rather work so they don't have to watch their spending so closely?
If you love your job and can happily do it for the rest of your life, then it doesn't matter how long your working life is. All I care about is that people are thoughtful about the decision.
AD: I don't understand the boredom comment from people. There's so much to do! So many books to read. So many places to travel to. So many people to meet and befriend. So many items left on my life bucket list to tackle. Plus, I love to sleep.
I realize this life isn't for everyone and that there are some people who genuinely like to work and make money. I say awesome sauce to you if that's the case. Enjoyment of time is primary, and if you love your job and can happily do it for the rest of your life, then it doesn't matter how long your working life is. All I care about is that people are thoughtful about the decision and don't just mindlessly go along with it because that's what most people do.
PS: What do you make of "minimalism" trends like KonMari? Do you see an overall trend toward wanting fewer material things and striving for financial independence?
AD: I'm a huge fan of KonMari. She perfectly encapsulates how one should look at stuff. The more you have, the less it all individually means. If you're deliberate about your stuff, it most certainly can bring you joy. As long as it's not mindless consumption, stuff can be super useful and help your life. I love how mainstream the idea is becoming, but I think it still has a long way to go.
How to Moonlight as a Makeup Artist For Your Engagement Photos
I'm a professional makeup artist, so women often hire me for their wedding day. However, many opt to save money by doing their own makeup for prenuptial events and photos. That's totally fine, but I urge them to follow certain steps to create their best look.
According to wedding photographer Jane Shauck of IRIS Photography, "The engagement makeup should complement the feel of the shoot . . . for most sessions, this means a pretty natural look. I love makeup that evens out skin tone and draws attention to lips and eyes without being distracting."
The purpose of an engagement photo shoot is to announce to the world that you've found the love of your life (no big deal or anything!). This photo will likely be seen in your local paper, on every social media outlet you (and your mother) utilize, and on your "Save the Date" cards or invitations. It's important to remember all this as you choose your makeup look.
Ahead, find six tips that will help you create that beautiful, photo-perfect look for your engagement photos.
It's Fall - Time to Get In on the Hygge Skincare Trend
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Kirbie Johnson
Hygge, the Danish art of getting cozy, has taken over the past year. It's no surprise that people want to embrace chilling the hell out - the nightly news is enough to make you want to crawl in the fetal position and cry. We've seen hygge take over fashion, food, even fan-favorite series Younger. And with a little direction, you can take the art of hygge and incorporate it into your skincare routine.
Ole Henriksen, founder of his namesake brand, happens to be Danish himself and practiced the art of hygge with his family growing up. "Every afternoon, my mom would yell out, 'Boys! Hygge time!' And her three boys would run up the stairs," Ole said. "She'd bake amazing multigrain bread - we weren't allowed sweets - with coffee and milk or tea. She'd tell us about her day, and then she wanted to hear about our days in school and what plans we had for the rest of the day. Maybe in those moments you didn't think so much about it, you needed to get a little bit older to appreciate it, but we needed to nurture each other."
This concept translates into the hygge skincare regimen. It's about nurturing your skin, nurturing your peace of mind, and focusing on good-quality products. It's easy to do, although it does take some time - and that isn't a bad thing. If you enjoy going home on weekends and watching Netflix versus going out to the club, this is right up your alley. And even if you're a night owl, doing this once a week can still get you into the hygge spirit. Here's how to add a little coziness into your skincare routine.
Set the mood.
Music, lighting, and smell make a difference. Disneyland is known to pump familiar scents throughout the park for the holidays. Why? It creates an experience for its visitors. The same idea works here. Light a candle (or five). Doesn't matter what scent - choose something that makes you feel calm like lavender, feel nostalgic like cinnamon or pine needles, or lifts your spirit like citrus-based scents. Turn on some music - I prefer Billie Holiday. If you can, keep the lights low and minimal. (Just make sure you can see yourself in the mirror.) Change into the comfiest robe you own.
Relax the body.
Easier said than done, right? Take a minute to stretch. Lie on your bed, cross your left leg across your body, and loosen up your lower back; follow with the right leg. Practice Child's pose.
Indulge in your skincare routine.
First things first: wash your face. Ole suggests products that are aromatic. If you wear makeup, Ole suggests his Wonderfeel Double Cleanser ($32), which removes waterproof and longwear makeup, smells fantastic, and doesn't leave the skin feeling tight or dry. Afterward, it's mask time. Ole made a mask especially for this ritual - the Hygge Hydraclay Detox Mask ($32), which detoxes the skin and helps calm redness - but obviously choose a mask that helps target your skin issues.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Julia Sperling
Soak.
If you have a tub, now is the time to use it. Draw some warm water and add a drop or two of your favorite body wash, which will add some bubbles and soften the skin. Sit, relax, and listen to music for about 20 minutes or until the water gets cold. Try to meditate if possible, forgetting all of your problems. If you don't have a bath, you can spend your time relaxing in the shower by giving yourself a scalp massage. This would be the time to rinse off your mask.
Center yourself.
Once you've finished bathing, make sure all remnants of your mask are gone and pat your skin dry. Lotion up and gently massage your favorite overnight facial moisturizer into your skin. Take three deep breaths, look in the mirror, and thank yourself for making time for you.
Melania Trump Has Zero Interest in Holding Donald Trump's Hand - and the Internet Notices
If there's one person on the planet capable of rejecting President Trump's requests (without enduring the wrath of his Twitter fury), it's Melania Trump. Proving her prowess, Trump was seemingly unamused by the President's gesture toward her hand as they deplaned from Air Force One in Israel on May 22. The First Lady's response to a proposed handhold? She swatted the President's hand away . . . and it's all wonderfully captured on video.
There's wide speculation online about Melania Trump's apparent, latent scorn for her husband - and there's a lot of proof to suggest that their relationship is not exactly puppies and rainbows. At the inauguration, a camera spotted Trump's clenched smile fade to a frown with near cartoonish quality - the moment was real, but it sure looked like it could have been edited.
I can't stop staring at the gif https://t.co/LqHMmFOVyp http://pic.twitter.com/CSGxT2eRS4
- Ashley Feinberg (@ashleyfeinberg) January 23, 2017
Then there's the simple fact that Trump rarely posted pictures of her and her husband on social media before he took office. Between June 2012 and June 2015, Trump tweeted 470 photos and only one of the photos showed her with her husband. Since her husband won the election, Trump has also delayed moving to the White House from New York City, prompting further speculation about their relationship.
We may never know the intricacies of Melania and Donald's relationship (unless, of course, she writes a book about her experience as First Lady), but their public interactions certainly imply emotional distance.
18 Celebrity Updos That Are Impressive From Every Angle
It's definitely a cinematic moment when someone enters the room looking fierce and then turns their head ever so slightly to reveal what's going on with their hair from behind. There's just something about a statement updo that commands attention.
Celebrities are especially good at pulling this off, and we urge you to take your cue from them as we enter the holiday party season.
Like celebs on the red carpet, your updos will forever be memorialized across social media this season. These looks will make you feel like the magnificent star you are while sipping Champagne and mingling with your friends!
These Are the 10 Best Foundations, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists
If you want to improve your makeup game, the key is to start with a good foundation. For many, that's easier said than done. Shade matching and finding that unicorn formula - the one that looks like a better version of your skin instead of a cakey mask - can seem impossible. To help make the search for Mr. Right Foundation easier, we took these challenges to the pros in hopes of separating the flaky from the flawless. Read on for some of the ones they and their celebrity clients have come to love.
Getting Robbed at Gun Point Was Apparently a Walk in the Park For This Jimmy John's Employee
Sometimes, life hands you a bad day and you need to just let it ride out. That's how one Jimmy John's employee seemingly approached a robbery at gunpoint as he stoically handed the gunman money from the register.
The robbery took place at a Jimmy John's in Kansas City, MO, on April 26 at 9:15 p.m. In a video uploaded to YouTube by the Kansas City Police Department, the suspect, wearing a blue hoodie, enters the store and orders an item. As the cashier tells him his total, the suspect pulls out a gun. The Jimmy John's employee then takes off his gloves, hands him all the money, and even tries to give him the drawer with all the change. You can watch the encounter ahead.
The video quickly went viral on the internet, with some people on Twitter noting that the gun looks like it was jammed and that's why the cashier was so chill. According to the Kansas City Police YouTube page, police have the suspect in custody and they wrote, "Investigation is continuing." We hope the cashier and anyone else working during the robbery are home safe and sincerely OK.
Lottery Horror Stories That Will Make You Think Twice About Buying That Ticket
Before you run out to buy a lottery ticket for the next Mega Millions drawing, there's something you need to know. The large prize could likely turn out to be a curse for whoever wins it. Most people have heard about lottery winners who lost it all, but sometimes these horror stories take especially calamitous turns. Below are nine blights you will avoid by not winning the lottery.
Divorce
Thomas and Denise Rossi were married for 25 years without any marital issues. Then, out of the blue, she asked for a divorce. Little did her husband know that days before filing, she had won $1.3 million, a secret she kept throughout the divorce proceedings. Once the truth came out, a judge found her guilty of violating California's disclosures law and awarded the entire winnings to her ex-husband.
Fire
Brits Roger and Lara Griffiths won about $3 million playing the lotto. She bought designer goods and he pursued a rock career, but soon it all went up in smoke. They lost money in bad investments, and their dream home, which they had borrowed against, burned down in a freak fire.
Murder
The story of Abraham Shakespeare is a truly tragic one. The Florida man had dropped out of school in seventh grade and could not read. At the age of 40, he won the $30 million jackpot. After he won, he couldn't say no to those who asked for money, even letting homeless people live in his home. That trust could have been his downfall. After Dorice Donegan "Dee-Dee" Moore "befriended" Abraham, he went missing. He was eventually found buried in a concrete slab at the home of Moore's boyfriend, and she was convicted of his murder.
Gambling
Evelyn Adams seemed lucky. She won the New Jersey lottery not once, but two times, raking up a prize of over $5.4 million. It didn't last long, though, as she squandered it on a gambling habit and ended up living in a trailer.
Hookers
If you win the lottery, beware of hookers. A love for cocaine and call girls cost Michael Carroll everything after he blew his $14 million winnings on the high life.
Thieves
Jack Whittaker won $314 million on Christmas Day. While Jack pledged 10 percent of his winnings to charity, the world wasn't so kind to him. Less than a year after he won, thieves broke into his car and stole $545,000 in cash. Another time, thieves stole $200,000 from his car (you would think he would find another place to keep his money). And if that wasn't enough, a strip club manager and dancer also conspired to drug him and take his money.
Suicide
It took Billie Bob Harrell Jr. 20 months to lose the $31 million he won in the Texas lottery. He quit his job at Home Depot and donated to charity, including 480 turkeys to the poor. But soon his spending got out of control, and people started to harass him for money. After he separated from his wife, his son found him dead from suicide.
Taxes
Tonda Lynn Dickerson worked at Waffle House. A generous regular gave the staff lottery tickets, and one day Tonda discovered that she had the winning ticket worth $10 million. While the rest of the employees alleged that they had all previously agreed to split a winning ticket, Tonda decided to keep it all for herself. They sued her and lost, but karma came back to bite Tonda when the IRS sued her for unpaid taxes.
Crack
Willie Hurt won $3.1 million in 1981. Two years later, he was broke after spending all his money on crack and was charged with murder.
Still think you could handle winning the lottery? There are some lottery stories that had happy endings, after all.
5 Printable Cardio Workouts For People Who Hate to Run
Hate the gym? Can't stand to run? Or maybe your schedule is such that your home also doubles as your fitness haven? If any of these scenarios sound like you, get excited, because we have five solid cardio workouts you can do at home - many with no equipment needed! And gym rats, don't fret. All of these workouts can be printed out and easily taken with you when you need to design a workout plan for those days that you're on the go.
24 Relaxing Songs to Help You Sleep
When you're lying in bed and caught on an endless train of thoughts, music is the best remedy to put you out. Drown out the day's stresses and let the playlist do its job - it's built for total relaxation and instant KO. Here's a mix of old favorites and new. Sweet dreams!
- "The Suburbs," Mr. Little Jeans
- "Thinkin Bout You," Frank Ocean
- "Islands," The xx
- "Eye of the Needle," Sia
- "Rocket," Beyoncé
- "Kind of . . . Sometimes . . . Maybe," Jessie Ware
- "Billie Jean," The Civil Wars
- "What You Need," The Weeknd
- "Flightless Bird, American Mouth," Iron & Wine
- "Skinny Love," Bon Iver
- "Sleeping Alone," Lykke Li
- "Supersymmetry," Arcade Fire
- "Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want," The Smiths
- "Good For You," Selena Gomez feat. A$AP Rocky
- "Excuses," The Morning Benders
- "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room (Live)," John Mayer
- "West Coast," Lana Del Rey
- "Paris, Tokyo," Lupe Fiasco
- "Lovely," Sara Haze
- "Shut It Down," Drake feat. The Dream
- "Thousand Miles," Tove Lo
- "Stay Ready (What a Life)," Jhene Aiko
- "Never Gonna Give You Up," The Black Keys
- "Believe," Mumford & Sons
Subscribe to our Spotify account to see what other playlists we have for you.
Don't forget, you'll need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists!
Wet n Wild Is Releasing 50+ New Products For Halloween - all Under $6
Wet n Wild is making it easy (and affordable) to upgrade your costume makeup to Heidi Klum-level heights this Halloween. The drugstore brand has released over 50 new products just for the spooky occasion.
Whether you dream of dressing up as a unicorn, vampire, or '90s grunge goddess, this line has products (all under $6!) that will suit your costume needs. Crazy-colored liquid lipsticks, neon face paint, and even glitter eyeliner are now all available at your local drugstore for a limited time. Read on to see all of the products!
13 Ingenious Ways to Use WD-40 Around the House
If you don't already have a can of WD-40 around the house, you'll soon want to! This wonder product was developed in San Diego, CA, in 1953 and started being sold for residential use in 1958. Originally developed as an antirust protector, it soon became a household staple.
It seems that the longer WD-40 has been around, the more uses people find for it. While it's still great at preventing rust, its cleaning and lubricating applications are seemingly endless! Check out some of our favorite ways to use WD-40 around the house.
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