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
Littlefinger Isn't in Westeros Anymore - He's Making Waves on Peaky Blinders
Your favorite British bad boys (and girls) are coming back soon! Peaky Blinders season four is dangerously close, with the first trailer - which you can watch below - promising blood, tears, and a whole lot of gang-fueled drama for fan-favorite character Tommy Shelby and his family. The series' fourth installment wrapped shooting in July, so here's everything you need to know about what to expect for the upcoming season. Give the thrilling trailer a watch, and then get ready for your favorite show's exciting return . . . by order of the Peaky fookin' Blinders.
When does it air?
There's still no official release date for the series, but Deadline reports that the series will air in the UK later this Fall. Based on past seasons, that likely means that Americans can expect it to hit Netflix in early 2018.
Who's new to the cast?
The gripping trailer reveals several new faces to the cast, including Adrien Brody as a menacing-looking figure and Game of Thrones actor Aidan Gillen as a new threat. Looks like Littlefinger will be terrorizing a new family now!
What will happen to the Shelbys?
When season three left off, the Shelby clan was on the outs with the law. According to The Independent, season four will pick up six months later and introduce the family to several new threats. Based on the trailer, the Shelbys look more than a bit out of their depth; we'll have to tune in to see how Tommy will connive his way out of this new mess.
This Video of the Total Solar Eclipse Will Remind You How Stunning Space Is
Didn't manage to snag a pair of coveted eclipse glasses this year? Well, now you don't have to wait until 2024 to experience the breathtaking wonder of a solar eclipse, thanks to Digg's hi-def video of the phenomenon. Taken from Warm Springs, OR - one of the ideal locations to view this year's eclipse from - there's no beating this video's vantage point.
Even from your screen, you'll be awestruck by the beauty of the rare event, and it will remind you why you love space in the first place. So whether you're watching for the very first time or simply reliving the Summer 2017 eclipse, definitely set this to full-screen mode for an immersive couple of minutes.
Mom's Hilarious Video Comparing First Pregnancy to Third Is So Spot-On
Pregnant with her third child, Esther Anderson is looking back on what her first pregnancy looked and felt like in comparison to this one, and her musings are so spot-on, you'll nod along until your head hurts. In a video posted to her blog's Facebook page, Story of This Life, Anderson appears as both the bright-eyed first-time mom who kept track of what vegetable her unborn child most related to in size and who she is now - a slightly more unkempt mom attempting to set up a pack-and-play for the new baby to sleep in, chowing down on a doughnut, and, honestly, just trying to get through this pregnancy while keeping her two daughters alive.
Watch the video to see her hilarious comparisons - including keeping to a first-pregnancy diet free of lunch meats, soft cheeses, and caffeine to a third-pregnancy diet that requires caffeine for survival purposes - but also to see how she manages to end the completely diverging trains of thought with the same exact sentiment.
Amazon Is Launching Its Own Meal Kits! Here's What You Can Expect
Is there anything Amazon can't do? Joining the popular meal-delivery-service industry, Amazon is launching its own meal kits, which will be available through its existing grocery service called Amazon Fresh. Much like some of the best food delivery services out there, like Blue Apron, HelloFresh, and Good Eggs, Amazon Meal Kits features individually packaged and portioned ingredients along with a step-by-step recipes meant to be cooked in a short amount of time. If the food is anything like Amazon's new Wickedly Prime snacks, then we know it's going to be good.
There's already an Amazon Meal Kit online for 30-minute steak au poivre with parmesan fries and snap peas, which comes with potatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic, beef stock, parchment paper, and more, but at press time, it was labeled "currently unavailable." To purchase the meal kits, you'll have to be a member of Amazon Fresh, which costs $15 per month and also requires you to be an Amazon Prime member. If you're a lazy cook or someone who really hates grocery shopping (and are already an avid Amazon Prime shopper), this takes care of most of the hassle for you and might be worth a try.
This exciting news comes shortly after Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods. We imagine it's only a matter of time before the next food-related announcement from Amazon.
8 Toxic Ingredients You Should Never Use in Your Skin Care Routine
Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Tata Harper's farm in Vermont, and it blew my mind. It should not have been so shocking. I've been a fan of her natural-ingredient, eco-friendly skin care and makeup line for years. It's ideal for my sensitive skin, and everything smells deliciously botanical with milky, silky textures. But actually seeing the farm-to-vanity process of these products made me realize: they are the real deal.
These are not products that claim to have organic ingredients but are still packed with "processed" stuff. In fact, most Tata Harper formulas have the shelf life of just a few months. She pointed out: why would you want to put something on your face with enough preservatives to make it last for years? Gross. (I immediately went home after the trip and threw away a ton of expired formulas.)
"I started Tata Harper Skincare after my stepfather was diagnosed with cancer," she told me via email. "Through all of the doctor's appointments I learned so much about lifestyle and how little decisions affect health and wellbeing. That's when I started really researching ingredients, and discovered that a lot of the ingredients with the most potential health risks aren't even there to give results; they're just fillers like preservatives, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners designed to keep the formula stable and give the product its texture. I only use natural ingredients because I believe that no woman should have to compromise her health for her beauty, especially if those ingredients aren't even making her beautiful!"
The more I learned about natural ingredients, the more I only wanted to use them. Every time I wash my face with Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser, I envision the apricot seed powder exfoliating my skin and the French pink clay detoxifying it. Or when I nourish my face with the Rejuvenating Serum, I know rosehip seed oil is rejuvenating my under-eye area, while Spanish lavender extract is relaxing fine lines.
If you are eager to get informed about the harmful ingredients in your skin care products, as well as natural ones to look for instead, keep reading. Tata Harper herself breaks down what to ditch, what to use, and why.
You'll Have to Get Really Close to Queen Letizia's Bag to See This 1 Detail
Help us stand back up, because we have fallen in love with Queen Letizia of Spain's amazing chunky chain-link red bag. The royal attended the opening of the school year at a vocational school in Teruel, Spain, wearing a pretty simple white silk pussy-bow shirt and herringbone pants, but being the stylish person she is, there was a secret touch to her look.
You'll have to look closely, but Letizia's bag is no simple red purse, even considering its chain contour. The crossbody bag features beautiful laser-cut portraits on its leather front, including profiles and full-face drawings. It's quite possibly the cheapest work of art, since it'll only cost you $119 and comes from one of Letizia's favorite fast-fashion retailers, Zara.
A Wimp's Ultimate October Movie Guide, Because 13 Nights of Halloween Aren't Enough
Love Halloween, but hate scary movies? It's a conundrum that many of us face come October, especially when trying to infuse a bit of the spooky season into our entertainment consumption. But if you're a bit of a wimp, have no fear - you can still watch a Halloween movie every night of October without any horror flicks involved! Let's be real - 13 nights of Halloween just aren't enough, so let our month-long guide inspire your October movie marathon.
White Pumpkin Pie M&M's Taste Exactly Like Cinnamon Rolls
A pumpkin-pie-flavored candy could go one of two ways, so we were a little nervous to try White Pumpkin Pie M&M's. The new, seasonal flavor has arrived just in time for Fall and Halloween, and in the spirit of all things pumpkin spice, we tried the candy as soon as we were able to get our hands on one of the festive packages. Not everyone who participated in this POPSUGAR taste test is a fan of either pumpkin spice or white chocolate, but we took one for the team and crunched right into the hard candy shells filled with white chocolate and pumpkin pie flavors. And let's not confuse these with Pumpkin Spice M&M's and Pumpkin Spice Latte M&M's from years past. These are entirely new and are available now in stores including Walmart and Target for $3 per bag.
So what do these M&M's actually taste like? The verdict, is M&M's totally nailed it with this flavor, and the bite-size candies taste exactly like pumpkin pie. Despite the fact that we know the candy is artificially flavored - it says it right there on the bag - we didn't taste any chemical-like, artificial aftertaste as we have with other M&M's flavors. The white chocolate base gives the M&M's an almost pumpkin-cheesecake-like flavor, and we definitely get hints of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. We bet these would taste fantastic frozen, as well as in Fall desserts like pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.
Here's a sampling of our reviews to give you a better idea of how people really felt about these M&M's.
- "I usually hate white chocolate, but these are a delight."
- "Dang, these taste just like pie. Color me impressed."
- "Subtle pumpkin flavor. You can definitely taste the white chocolate."
- "They taste like a cinnamon bun!"
- "Took me a while to taste the pumpkin, but they're not bad!"
If you're already dreaming about filling bowls in your kitchen with this limited-edition M&M's flavor, do yourself a favor and stock up! You just might be able to get away with serving these for dessert instead of homemade pumpkin pie.
Join the Resistance With This DIY Handmaid's Tale Halloween Costume
With just one season, The Handmaid's Tale has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and the nation at large. The politically charged show - based on Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name - makes a powerful statement about the vulnerability of women's rights following the presidential election. The show has received the credit it deserves, too. At the 2017 Emmy Awards, the show won several categories, including the award for outstanding drama series. In our current political climate, many will likely be using the holiday to make a powerful statement.
Image Source: Everett Collection
How to Create It Yourself
Interested in joining the resistance? Here's everything you'll need for your handmaid costume:
- A red cloak
- A white bonnet
- A tan mesh bag
- Black ankle boots
Fortunately, this DIY costume involves very little steps. Simple shop for a red cloak, oversize white bonnet, some sort of a mesh tote bag, and throw it all together for a chilling costume.
Check out the rest of our Top 10 Halloween Costumes For 2017!
Primark's New Spooky Products Will Have You Screaming, It's Halloween!
We are straight-up losing our damn minds over here. Just when we didn't think we could love Primark any more than we already did, they had to go and release an epic collection of Halloween products that are also insanely affordable. From skull candles to vampire and mermaid makeup kits, Primark has it all - and everything is $11 and under! Seriously, what kind of sorcery was involved in this collection?
Primark does not currently offer online shopping, so you'll have to find a location near you to buy ALL THE THINGS. See our favorites ahead!
9 Problematic Questions People Tend to Ask When They Find Out I'm Bi
Coming out is never a one-time thing. I first told someone I'm bisexual when I was 19 years old, after wondering for ages if that might be the case. I was, up until that point, unsure whether or not my assumptions about myself were correct. I knew at that point that I was into men, but did I like women - or did I just like them? (Spoiler: I like them and like them - both.)
In each and every instance when I've come out, I've gotten different reactions. My mom sent me a looooong text about it before we sat down and really talked. People have said, "Oh, me too." Some left it at, "OK." Others have nodded, carried on with whatever they were doing, and then paused to ask, "Do you want to talk about it?" I've also, of course, been bombarded with questions.
I can't speak for the questions people ask those coming out as anything other than bisexual, which I use here to mean "attracted to more than one gender." But a number of the responses I've gotten have definitely been biphobic in nature. In a society in which bi-erasure is prevalent, some of the questions people ask me tend to fall under that umbrella unintentionally. If you're considering coming out as bi or someone recently came out to you, these are some of the common questions people ask . . . but probably shouldn't.
"Oh, really? So you're gay?"
No, I'm not gay, but yes, I do like people who are the same gender as myself in addition to those of other genders.
"But how do you know? Have you had sex with men and women?"
Honestly, do you really want to know all the details? I understand that for some people these details can be titillating and taboo, but it's a pretty invasive question. Unless we're good friends or I've been drinking, I'm probably not going to give you the answer you want.
It's important to understand, too, that a person's sexual history does not necessarily designate their sexuality. You can be attracted to people without having sex with them, and you can have sex with people without being attracted to them. If a straight guy has never had sex before, is it possible he's gay? If a bisexual woman has not had sex with another woman but has with a man, is her sexual inclination toward women invalid? The answer here is no, by the way; sexual history has nothing to do with sexual orientation. (And some of us are just shy, OK? It can be really hard to tell if someone else is queer, too, before you hit on them, and that is intimidating as all hell.)
"OK, but you have to like one more than the other, right?"
I don't have to like one more than the other, but as with sexuality in general, it definitely depends on the individual. At times I tend to sway more one way than another, but that's just my experience. It doesn't negate the fact that I am attracted to more than one gender. (Also, gender itself isn't a binary system, so there's that.)
"Are you sure you're not just confused?"
I may have been when I was first piecing it together (See: do I want to be her or be with her?), but as soon as it clicked, that was it. It was difficult at first to accept my sexuality, but that mostly boiled down to lack of experience. I spent a lot of time wondering if I was really bi since at that point I had only dated guys, but lack of experience does not equal lack of attraction. You don't have to have had sexual experiences with more than one gender to be "legitimately" bisexual; you don't even have to have had experience with any gender. So while I'm not confused by my sexuality now, the journey to accepting it was a strange one, full of self-doubt, that I am so glad to have left behind.
I am, however, confused by other things.
"Since when have you been bisexual?"
A more appropriate question would be, "When did you realize you were bisexual?" Either way, it's prying into private space. Some people realize in their 40s, 50s, even beyond; it could just be when they come to terms with it or when they decide to tell you specifically. Nobody owes it to you to come out to you, after all, especially when you ask questions that seem to judge (like all of these).
"How does that even work?"
This one is always puzzling. Are you referring to being attracted to more than one gender? Are you asking about sex? (If so, sex still works like sex - just saying.) Are you just wondering if I'm attracted to every living person under the sun? Liking people of more than one gender doesn't mean I like everyone, nor does it mean I'm sexually interested in everyone.
"Do you want to have sex with all your friends?"
Again, see above. Just because I'm attracted to more than one gender does not mean I'm attracted to everyone. If you're asking whether I'm attracted to you, just ask, and I'll probably tell you - and don't assume that someone is suddenly attracted to you or owes you anything when they come out to you, either.
"Is it just because being gay is popular where you live?"
No, I can guarantee that being attracted to people has nothing to do with regional acceptance. Also, only 6.2 percent of San Franciscans specifically identify as LGBTQ+, according to Gallup poll numbers from 2015; Oakland isn't even mentioned in that survey. Is less than 10 percent of a population popular? Also, what about LGBTQ+ people in less queer-friendly areas? Do they not exist? Unfortunately, we definitely won't get proper numbers from the next US census, either, and even if we did, larger queer populations do not turn other people queer; queer populations in certain areas simply expand by virtue of people wanting to feel safe and accepted in a space that is familiar.
And, OK, this last one isn't a question, exactly, but it is the most common response I get on Tinder:
"Cool, my girlfriend has always wanted to have a threesome!"
Well, when you market it like that . . . I'm kidding, but while some people might be into it, assuming all bisexual people are automatically into threesomes definitely falls back on stereotypes. Considering media often portrays bisexual individuals as greedy, oversexualized, and unfaithful, this assumption that we automatically want a threesome perpetuates those stereotypes, regardless of the truth. There's nothing wrong with threesomes or having a high sex drive, obviously, but don't assume someone is into something or someone based solely on their sexuality.
The Royal Family's Nurseries Have Been Over-the-Top Dreamy For Years
With the news of baby number three on its way for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, what better time to look back at that very unique childhood environment: the royal nursery! It is where the next generation of the family forge their earliest memories and is often the liveliest, most informal, and creative heart of any royal household. It is usually comprised of a whole suite of rooms that take up a whole floor and include a kitchen, playroom, and bedrooms for the little princes and princesses, their nannies, and protection officers. Over the years, it's been offset by some very special al fresco additions, including the queen's most glamorous Wendy House ever, William and Harry's tree house, and George and Charlotte's shepherd's hut. It's time to take a tour . . .
Your Going to Love This 40-Minute "Tone You All Over" Workout
Tone your entire body with this mix of cardio, bodyweight, and dumbbell exercises from LA-based celebrity trainer Jenn Glysson. She leads an intense workout, but offers modifications for all the moves. Be sure to check out her digital workout guides for more at-home workouts.
On Anna: Zen Fuego top, Sweaty Betty tights, and Puma shoes
On Jenn: Adidas tights and shoes
On Chelsea: Show Me Your Mumu Outfit and Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) shoes
Jenn and Chelsea's mats: Yoga Design Labs
Anna's: MatManduka
Corkcicle water bottles
22 Chic Autumn Nail Colors You'll Want to Buy ASAP
Fall not only brings us cooler weather and pumpkin spice everything, it also treats us to new Autumn nail polish collections. With ranges of burnt orange, olive greens, and plums to choose from, we're spoiled with choices from the likes of Essie and OPI. Ahead, find a few of our favorite old and new colors to get your Autumn 2017 nail collection started.
25+ Latin Songs That Make For the Perfect Holiday Playlist
As Latinas, we're lucky enough to be able to make the holiday season special and particularly ours - with touches of traditions no one else understands, which make our celebrations feel totally unique. For one, there's the food; the chicken is next to the lechón or the turkey, and everyone is eating at different times (and multiple times) through the night. There are lots of people everywhere, getting ready for the nightlong affair, starting on the afternoon of Dec. 24 and leading up to present opening at midnight.
But nothing incites more holiday cheer than the soundtrack blasting from speakers as everyone chatters and gossips around the tree and nativity scene. Keep scrolling for the ultimate Latin holiday playlist that'll make everyone bop around, sing along, and get into the holiday spirit quicker than you can say "Feliz Navidad," then check off everyone on your list with these 100-plus gift ideas.
14 Discontinued Urban Decay Products We Want the Brand to Bring Back
A friend of mine once referred to me as a "beauty historian," and this was an incredibly apt description. I have been hoarding cosmetics since my early teen years and have kept the majority of my collection in pristine condition, packaging included. In fact, there are some products that I treasure so much that I can't even bring myself to use them.
Urban Decay is possibly my favorite beauty brand of all time, and I have sung its praises in countless essays for POPSUGAR. I proudly locked down the AOL Instant Messenger user name of "urbandecayjunkie" in middle school, and from that point onward, my obsession spiraled out of control. I've tracked down dozens of discontinued items on eBay and spent carefully saved money on the company's new launches over the years. Now that I'm a beauty editor, I get to know about Urban Decay's upcoming products ahead of time, so I'm basically living out my teenage fantasies.
In a humble ode to the brand, I pulled some of my favorite products from my stash in hopes that other Urban Decay junkies would reminisce along with me. Unfortunately, I couldn't find my beloved Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner in Pyrotechnics (an iridescent sparklefest of a liquid liner) or Pocket Rocket gloss in Timothy (featuring a graham-cracker-like scent in the tube and a lenticular print of an undressed preppie hottie on the outside). There are definitely some oldies-but-goodies in here, though: all of these products are from around 2004 or earlier. Read on and take a trip down memory lane!
Why Your Face-Picking Could Be a Deeper Psychological Issue
I have a dirty little secret, and it's not a pretty one to admit as a beauty editor. Often, I find myself nuzzled up to my bathroom mirror, nails clawing at the tiny whiteheads on my face or pressing aggressively against the "lurkers," those pesky, deep pimples that form under the skin. I've even gone after ingrown hairs. Sometimes, I play a game in the elevator of my building: how quickly can I extract pus from my zit as I travel from the eighth floor to the lobby?
After these face-picking sessions, I am left with a war zone: bleeding, scabs, and eventually scars. I don't even have acne. It's not about getting clear skin, as I am often going after clogged pores too small for a casual observer to notice. When my fiancé moved in and realized what I've been doing behind closed bathroom doors, he gently pointed out that I should try to quit the habit.
So I reached out to my dermatologist, Dr. Amy Wechsler, who is board-certified in dermatology and psychiatry. She's one of the only women in the country with these dual specialties - pretty badass! She helped make sense of why we do this, what it means for us emotionally, and how to stop.
Are You a Picker?
"There are some people who are pickers," she explained. "They have something on their skin that is not typically there, so they try to pick or pop it off. Mosquito bites, scabs, pimples. Other people never touch anything on their skin. That seems to be something stable throughout someone's life - whether they are a picker or not."
Why do we do it? The short answer: "A lot of lives are relatively out of control," she said. "If there is something you can do to control your body or your life, intelligent people try to do it." She added that the habit is often linked to anxiety.
If you ask around or do a quick Google search, you'll discover how vast this issue is. POPSUGAR Beauty editor Emily Orofino admitted to me: "I'll spend hours sitting on the bathroom counter digging holes into my face. I've used tweezers and blackhead extractors to stab myself until something comes out. I don't feel successful until I am bleeding, usually. I've done some messed up things to myself to make me feel better, and I don't think it's just about skin."
"They get get into a trance, a zone where they aren't 100 percent conscious or fully aware of the world around them."
POPSUGAR intern Ashley Cooke also opened up about her chronic skin-picking issue. "I have the OCD of picking my fingers," she said. "I have never known a time when I haven't had this issue. I have crazy scars and bumps on my cuticles and a bit of nerve damage. I have to wear gloves in bed, because I do it in my sleep. And I always have Band-Aids on me as it's the only thing that keeps me from scratching at my fingers."
Pimple-popping videos, showcasing pus oozing out of infected megazits, have been going viral on the Internet for the past year. Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) has over a million fans on her YouTube page. There is a mass fixation around this sensitive topic.
"I think it's pretty strange," Dr. Wechsler said of the trend. "On the other hand, it's satisfying as a doctor to drain a big pimple, because you know you're helping the person." She prefers that her clients watch these videos rather than take on the task of doing it at home. "If they're getting vicarious satisfaction watching a big pimple pop, by all means . . . if it keeps you from popping your own."
The Correlation Between Picking and Anxiety
Right after I got engaged, there was a very brief period of anxiety during which my fiancé and our families wondered: where and when will we have this wedding? It's one of the biggest decisions (besides choosing a partner) that the couple has to make. During that time, you can bet I had to use extra concealer to hide the damage I did to my face.
"When people excessively do something to their own skin, it gets them out of their head, so to speak," Dr. Wechsler said. "They get into a trance, a zone where they aren't 100 percent conscious or fully aware of the world around them. I've heard many patients say to me that they feel like they've been in the bathroom picking in a magnifying mirror for five minutes when it's been two hours."
The pattern causes people to feel dejected, and it can damage self-esteem.
Picking is a result of anxiety, and it can be a chronic, cyclical issue. "During times of anxiety and stress, they start picking more," she said. "And when the stress goes away or gets better, they stop. When the stress flares again - it could be months or weeks later - they do it again."
The pattern causes people to feel dejected, and it can damage self-esteem. "What's wrong with me?" is a common phrase Dr. Wechsler hears. "Afterwards, people feel so bad, like, 'I can't believe I did this to myself. I made my skin worse. It was healing. Now, I have anxiety plus this.'"
There are a slew of anxiety disorders linked to skin picking, including obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorder. "It can also go along with depression or psychosis," she added. "Sometimes people are picking their skin because they believe bugs are in their skin, which is relatively rare. It's called delusions of parasitosis."
How to Stop Picking
Good news: this is not an incurable issue, and Dr. Wechsler has actionable suggestions. "All of these different ways have helped so many people," she said. "I want people to know that they're not alone. This is not something most people who have a picking problem share with people in their lives. So they feel very isolated."
If it is an extreme case, she will send a patient to get cognitive behavioral therapy with a psychologist. This goal-oriented form of therapy helps people work through the underlying issues and change the way they think about situations.
"All of these different ways have helped so many people. I want people to know that they're not alone."
But before you start calling your health insurance, there are at-home approaches to try. Dr. Wechsler recommends enlisting someone who you live with - a roommate, a family member, or a significant other - to make sure you're not locked in the bathroom scabbing up your skin. "The person doesn't have to be judgmental or mean," she said. "Just say to them, 'If I'm going to the bathroom, please time it and get me out. Knock on the door. This is my problem, and I need help.'"
If you live alone, put sticky notes in the bathroom - on the mirror or on the walls - with phrases like "Don't pick!" and "Keep my hands off my face!" According to Dr. Wechsler, it can jolt you out of your picking. You can also set a timer when you go into the restroom to remind yourself to get out quickly.
Dr. Wechsler also advises to throw out your magnifying mirror. "No one's skin looks great in a magnifying mirror," she said. "You see all kinds of things that aren't visible to the naked eye. A lot of pickers who have a real problem go after things you can only see with a magnifying mirror. That's so unhealthy and so bad for you. I had a patient once take a video of her throwing her magnifying mirror down the garbage shoot, which was great. She was showing me that she was doing better and taking the steps to really try to stop."
What to Do If You've Picked
So you went after a few blackheads, and now your face is a crime scene. Dr. Wechsler offers next steps: "If you're already bleeding, make sure your hands are clean. Use tissues to pat the area dry, and then apply some sort of antibiotic, topical, hydrogen peroxide, clean your skin a bit. Don't use rubbing alcohol, it stings like crazy." Pick up some Neosporin at your local drugstore, and put it on the spot.
If you absolutely have to get pus out of a zit, try this method. First, make sure your skin is soft by taking a shower, washing your face, or putting a warm compress on it. Then, says Dr. Wechsler, "take two Q-tips and apply even, gentle pressure on either side of the pimple. You cannot hurt yourself with the Q-tip. If you apply too much pressure, you will break the Q-tips. If they break, just stop." But do not start with cotton swabs and then move onto your fingers. Putting tissues over your nails isn't a solution either. "Your fingernail is strong and hard," she warned.
While breaking this habit is not easy (trust me, I know), think about what it is doing to your skin in the long term. Investing in laser treatments and expensive brightening serums to remedy scars is costly and time-consuming. And if you think you have a deeper issue, contact your doctor or a mental-health professional for help.
20 of the Scariest, Goriest Halloween Costumes Using Makeup (NSFW!)
Makeup-lovers get to look pretty 364 days, except for one special night: Halloween. Oct. 31 allows those with a crafty hand, an arsenal of brushes, and some face paint to transform into the creepiest versions of themselves. With the rise of Instagram stars and hashtags (such as the #100daysofHalloween challenge), we predict 2016 will be the wildest year yet when it comes to costumes. To get you started on your gory mission, we rounded up some of the most terrifyingly gorgeous (or just plan horrifying) makeup-centric costumes from Instagram.
20 Nostalgic Nintendo Costumes Your Kid Can Rock This Halloween
Move over, 2017, because everyone is more taken with the '90s right now than they ever were with you. With nostalgia at an all-time high, thanks to parents who grew up in the decade influencing their young kids and retail companies revisiting those golden years with their "new" toys, games, and clothes for kids inspired by the '90s, there's no better time than the present for your kids to sport a Halloween costume supporting the decade's most famous and beloved video game company: Nintendo.
Ahead, the Nintendo costumes your kid's going to totally rock this Halloween (and likely beyond, while they sit mindlessly playing video games, or watching YouTube videos of other people playing video games. That aspect of 2017 is still very much alive and well . . . ).
Zodiac Signs Who Make Great Moms, Ranked From BEST to WORST
This article written by Christine Schoenwald was originally featured on one of our favorite sites: YourTango.
How good of a mom are you?
Do you know the zodiac signs who make the best moms? Sure, it's fun to do a ranking, but the truth is that every sign and every mother has their own unique style of mothering and their own special abilities at it. And even your horoscope can point out the best qualities you have for parenting.
When I was in college, there was another student whose mother still not only made her lunch but put positive notes in it such as "I love you" and "I know you'll succeed." I envied that woman for having such a loving and thoughtful mother. My mother stressed things like independence and taking care of oneself - still valuable tools to learn but without the emotional tie-in.
I respect my friends who are moms. They work hard to make sure to raise their kids right. Many of them are single moms and even though they seem to have double the work, they're doing a great job as their children know that their mothers have their back and they'll do anything for them.
Moms need to be so many things for their kids: an advocate, a supporter, a teacher, a caregiver, a driver, and a parent.
Some moms are "cool" and others are more traditional and try to instill those traditional values in their children. I know moms who homeschool and others who spend hours and hours searching for the best school for their children. From what I can tell, being a parent is exhausting, and as rewarding as they seem to believe parenting is, I know there are moments where the parents need a break.
As a parent, you need to provide shelter, food, love, and opportunities for growth. It's a tough job and not everybody is good at handling all the responsibility of being a mother.
But some zodiac signs seem a little more qualified for motherhood than others. Here are the zodiac signs who make the best moms, ranked from best to worst.
- PISCES (February 19 - March 20)
Pisces instill an appreciation of the arts in their children and they encourage their kids to be creative. A Pisces mom's kids will be sensitive, imaginative, and will learn to treat other people with kindness and compassion. Pisces moms will hand down a love of nature, a sense of pride in helping others, and an independent spirit.
The Pisces mom may not know how to teach their children to make their dreams a reality but they will support them the whole way as their children try to figure it out for themselves.
Read: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving a Pisces, as Written by One
- ARIES (March 21 - April 19)
Aries moms keep the schedules of their children full of music lessons, sports, hobbies, social activities, and camps. Meanwhile, the Aries mom has a full schedule herself. She wants her children to be adventuresome and to not shy away from trying new things. She encourages them to face all challenges head-on and to fight for what they believe in.
She is occasionally blunt but almost immediately regrets it. Aries moms can be pushy with their kids and sometimes need to be able to listen and really hear what her child wants or doesn't want to do.
Read: The 13 Brutal Truths About Loving an Aries, as Written by One
- GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)
Gemini moms can talk about anything with their kids - they often have the "sex" talk very early on. Gemini moms don't have any secrets from their children. Her kids have great communication skills and are very aware of what's happening in the world around them.
One of the things that make a Gemini mom so unique is her ability to understand her kids regardless of their gender or their age. Gemini moms give the best parties and have the best play dates (because they seem like a party).
Read: The 13 Brutal Truths About Loving a Gemini, as Written by One
- CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19)
Capricorn moms will fight to the death for their kids. They are fiercely loyal and will always stand up for them. These moms do not mess around and take their parenting very seriously. They want to instill a good work ethic in their kids and for them to have discipline and focus.
You can be sure if their kids get an allowance, they earn it by doing chores and taking care of their siblings. Capricorn moms are most often working moms and sometimes have to be reminded to take some time for themselves, and not devote every spare minute to their family.
Read: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving a Capricorn, as Written by One
- TAURUS (April 20 - May 20)
Taurus moms are incredibly patient - so much so that they sometimes come off as saintly. But make no mistake, Taurus moms are very real and down to earth. Taurus moms can be stubborn which can lead to issues when her kids get to the teenage years. If you've ever witnessed a stand-off between a Taurus mom and her teen, you know it's not pretty.
A Taurus mom makes sure that her kids have an appreciation of beauty and nature. Since a Taurus mom may be prone to overindulgence with food and spending, she needs to watch that she doesn't overfeed her kid or that they don't know the value of a dollar.
Read: The 5 Brutal Truths About Loving a Taurus, as Written by One
- LIBRA (September 23 - October 22)
Libras are great moms because they're so balanced and peaceful. They encourage harmony in the home and when there's discord between siblings, she's able to see each one's perspective in an argument and help the participants to find neutral ground.
Libra moms don't love having to be the disciplinarian and would rather be a friend than a parent but usually wait to be friends with their kids until they've grown up. The most important things that a Libra mom teaches her kids are how to share, how to feel compassion for others, and how to be good friends.
Read: 11 Brutal Truths About Loving a Libra, as Written by One
- CANCER (June 21 - July 22)
A Cancer mom is protective and nurturing. In fact, kids with a Cancer mom know that they're truly loved and cared for. A Cancer mom is always there to listen to her child and help them to feel better. She wants her home to be a place of love and comfort and for her kids to be able to share anything with her.
When all else fails, a Cancer mom will make her child's favorite cookies or snack just so they know how adored they are. She's also great at being able to help develop a child's creativity and isn't shy about sharing her child's genius with the world.
Read: The 5 Brutal Truths About Loving a Cancer, as Written by One
- SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21)
Sagittarius moms have huge hearts and want to share the world with their kids. They very likely start traveling with them at an early age. They inject a thirst for knowledge and a strong sense of independence in their children, as well as a wicked sense of humor.
Sagittarians make for fun moms and she knows that childhood is brief, so she wants her kids to enjoy every moment of it. A Sagittarius mom can be impulsive - one minute she's in the carpool lane making her way to drop-off, the next she's declaring that it's a beach day instead. She may not have as many rules as many of the other moms because she wants her kids to be their own people, not a carbon copy of her.
Read: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving a Sagittarius, as Written by One
- VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)
Whatever is broken, the Virgo mom is going to do her best to fix it, whether it's a toy or a broken heart. She has high expectations for her children and can be critical but she still loves them deeply, even when they fail her.
She's the queen of multitasking as she parents, works, volunteers, and still keeps a very clean and orderly home. She wants her kids to have discipline and to not give up when things get hard. A Virgo mom has perfectionist leanings and can ride her kids too hard if she's not careful.
Read: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving a Virgo (as Written by a Virgo)
- SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21)
Scorpio moms are scarily intuitive and often know what's going on with their child before the child does themselves. Scorpio moms are big on loyalty, honesty, and protection, and as long as her kids tell the truth and look out for others, she's good.
Watch out if you insult her children in any way or you create a problem for them, for she'll fight harder for her kids than for herself. She'll put the needs of her family above her own and will passionately defend them whenever she feels they've been threatened.
Read: 14 Brutal Truths About Loving a Scorpio, as Written by One
- AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18)
Aquarian moms are all about not conforming and being true to oneself. She may homeschool her kids but will make sure they have some outside classes. She'll make sure that they know the importance of helping others and that her children are aware of important issues such as global warming.
The Aquarian mom will be sure to encourage imagination and experimentation in her kids. However, she will have very little patience for meltdowns and any kind of emotional display. She may need to be reminded that she can't assume her kids know that she loves them and that she needs to reassure them.
Read: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving an Aquarius, as Written by One
- LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Leo mom is the most childlike of the moms. She enjoys playing with her kids and giving them generous gifts. She can, however, be self-absorbed and may put her own needs before her children's. Is she having that expensive party because that's what her son or daughter asked for, or is she doing it because it impresses the other moms?
She deeply loves her children but can have narcissistic leanings, thinking of her children as an extension of herself. She would have no qualms flirting with her child's teacher, even if it embarrasses her kid in the process.
More juicy reads from YourTango:
Why Everybody Crushes on You Based on Your Zodiac Sign
How You Deal With Being Single According to Your Zodiac Sign
The Secret Thing You're Good at According to Your Zodiac Sign
This Little Girl in a Pantsuit Met Hillary Clinton, and Yes, You Will Cry
Look who wore her pant suit to meet @HillaryClinton !! #WhatHappened http://pic.twitter.com/0Rd3ZJ8H8p
- GregHale1 (@GregHale1) September 27, 2017
Hillary Clinton has spent the last couple weeks flying across the country as part of a massive multicity book tour for her memoir, "What Happened," as well as the picture book version of her 2006 book "It Takes A Village." As one might expect, the former first lady and presidential candidate has made headlines more than a few times as a result of interesting tidbits she's share at these events - but on Sept. 27, the spotlight very much belonged to someone else: an adorable girl named Grace.
Grace wore her very own tiny pantsuit to a Brooklyn event centered on the children's book, and when it was her turn to get the book signed by Clinton her father, Greg Hale, snapped a photo. After Hale shared the photo on social media it went viral - and how could it not? It's a sight that gives hope in a situation that has felt so bleak for so long - plus, Grace could not possibly be more adorable. Clinton, for her part, shared the photo as well, with a quick caption that read "Great to be back in Brooklyn sharing #ItTakesAVillage with readers of all ages!"
Great to be back in Brooklyn sharing #ItTakesAVillage with readers of all ages! https://t.co/ytalprhN5p
- Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 28, 2017
But if Grace's adorable-ness hasn't caused you to tear up just yet, you've got one more shot: another photo was taken of her just outside the event, and it shows that the spirit of being with her is still alive and well in even the youngest Americans.
Took this photo of Grace outside and told her you would love to see her! ❤️ http://pic.twitter.com/JYjikIAisE
- Jennifer McCann (@jen4hillary) September 28, 2017
Workouts That Give Me Everything Running Promised (but Didn't)
There's so much to love about running - in theory, at least. It's a workout that I've always romanticized in my mind: it's just you and the road - no judgment or competition - and let's not forget that runner's high that can solve anything.
Sadly, my running reality is the exact opposite. In all the miles I logged chasing a runner's high, it never arrived. NOT. ONCE. Three half-marathons under my belt and not once was I left feeling like a gazelle or empowered. Instead I felt defeated and questioned what was wrong with me, why was running always so hard. All of my friends loved running, so why didn't I? It took many miles, injuries, and trips to a sports doctor to let go of the idea that running was the benchmark of fitness success.
It took a few years for me to get here - and maybe a breakdown during one pitiful training run - but I'm finally OK telling myself that I am not a runner, and that's OK. Fitness is a personal journey - personal being key. There is no right or wrong way; there's only your way. Once I fully embraced this idea and hung up my running shoes for good, my life changed for the better. Along the way, I was also happy to find that all the things I craved from running were there waiting to be discovered, just not on the track.
The Runner's High: Dance Cardio
If you ever told me that dance would be my thing, I probably would have laughed. I've never been great with choreography, and I let fear hold me back from attending a dance class. On a brave day, I allowed my friends to drag me to Hipline for my first-ever dance-cardio class. I was nervous, inside my head, and made a beeline to the back of the room - but I am so glad I went. That first class and every class since has been one big ball of happiness. Instead of judgement and fear, I found pure, unabashed joy - and one hell of a workout. Here I am, finally experiencing the "runner's high" described to me by so many friends, except at a dance class! I find myself lost in the movement and the music and have a permanent smile on my face the entire time. While Hipline is my absolute favorite, I've found the same feeling of euphoria at other studios like Zumba, AKT, and 305 Fitness.
Intense Cardio: Indoor Cycling
Even if my heel was sometimes left throbbing, I always appreciated the type of workout I got from an intense running session. There is no denying that hill sprints, speed play, and running intervals get the heart rate up in a major way. You know what else does? Indoor cycling. Whether I'm at Spin, SoulCycle, or Flywheel, I know I'm in for an intense workout that will having me climbing hills and maxing out - just like I did when I ran, except this time I'm enjoying the entire process from start to finish.
Buns of Steel: Rowing
Like so many others, I walked by the rowing machine in my gym without giving it a second thought. Then I took a class at CityRow and realized what a fool I'd been. Rowing is the definition of a total-body workout; it works all the muscles of your lower body (plus your core and your arms!) while keeping the heart rate up. Unlike running, it's much easier on the joints, which is exactly what my beat-up body needed.
Becoming Zen With Nature: Backpacking
One of the things I liked most about running was getting outside. Studio workouts definitely have their place, but being outside on a sunny day can't be beat, especially when a run ended up somewhere beautful like a coastal trail. I've always been big into hiking, but in the last couple of years, I've been doing a lot of backpacking. Being out in the middle of nowhere for days on end may sound terrifying, but it's led to some of the most beautiful backdrops I've ever experienced. From a black sand beach in Hawaii only accessible to backpackers to the ever-changing scenery of the John Muir Trail, backcountry hiking has given me a glimpse of nature I would have never been able to experience otherwise.
Stress Relief: Yoga
Sadly, running only added more stress to my life, which is why I am so grateful for yoga. I was slow to come around to it, but now I can't imagine a week without taking a couple of classes. I had to find the style that worked for me, the right teachers, and a studio I loved, but once that happened, it all came into place. My regular 90-minute classes allow me to truly unwind and let go of any stress I may be feeling. It used to be hard to turn off my mind, and now I look forward to that meditative state it provides me with.
The Big Latin-American News Story That Called to Me
I have had many proud moments as a Latina, but any time I can share a bit of our diverse Latin culture on the Today show and now Access Hollywood and educate our viewers makes me feel like I am doing my part. One of the most significant stories of my reporting career, and a moment I will always cherish, was covering the rescue of the 33 Chilean miners who were buried alive, literally, for a record 69 days.
Copiapó, Chile, is in the desert hills. It was a stunning but harsh environment. The families in the mining camp set up a tight-knit community as they were patiently waiting for their loved ones to be rescued, but it was a high-stakes rescue that had never been done before at depths of almost 3,000 feet underground. I was sent days in advance of the rescue and became friendly with the families of the miners.
As someone who grew up in South America speaking both Spanish and Portuguese, it was a story that almost seemed to call for me and my skill set. Reporting for NBC News, I was able to translate what the experience was like for those living through it, but also share the perspective as someone who really understood how unique and proud this Hispanic community was during an extraordinary event. They did not want handouts or pity; they only wanted their loved ones safe and sound.
In the first moments of the rescue, I helped translate for our viewers what the families were feeling and saying. It was an incredible high to witness such an extraordinary event - what many called "miraculous" - and to be able to share that with our viewers from my perspective as a proud Latina.
13 Lazy-Girl Halloween Costumes That Only Require Face Paint
OK, so there's just about a week left to shop for a Halloween costume. Calm down, because we've collected 13 cute, easy costumes that will make you the life of the party no matter how dressed up everyone else is. And don't fret - for many of these looks, all you need is a black eyeliner pencil and a little attitude.
This Zombie Princess Jasmine Costume Is Both Gross and Gorgeous
You know how that Aladdin song goes: "Arabian nights, beneath Arabian moons. A fool off his guard could fall and fall hard," . . . and in our Halloween-obsessed world, get attacked by zombies! Well, maybe that's not the exact lyrics, but this Halloween, we've taken Princess Jasmine to the dark side. The undead side, as a matter of fact. This royal would fit in just as well on the set of The Walking Dead as she does in the Arabian Desert.
With the help of resident makeup artist Faina Rudshteyn at the Make Up For Ever boutique in NYC, we made Jasmine over. In the process, we snagged essential 3D makeup tips for any gory Halloween costume (like use cotton balls to make your wounds gush). But we still maintained that classic cat eye Jasmine is known for. She may be a zombie, but she's still a princess!
10 Target Snacks That Will Become Your Pantry Staples
As you stroll through the grocery section of Target, do you ever wonder which of the Archer Farms and Simply Balanced (aka Target's name brands) products are actually delicious? Lucky for you, Target sent us its top-selling brand-named snacks, from trail mix to potato chips, so you can feel good about what you end up tossing in your cart.
19 Painted Pumpkin DIYs So Darling, You'll Want to Run Out and Buy a Paintbrush
For many, pumpkin carving conjures nostalgic memories of childhood. Sitting around the table, scooping out gooey pumpkin seeds, and planning your design was - and still is - a staple of Halloween activities. But unless you're blessed with a flawless pumpkin-carving technique, oftentimes those detailed designs don't translate into the pumpkin you envisioned. This year, why not try your hand at another pumpkin decorating approach: painting! These DIYs and tutorials show just what you can do with a little bit of paint and an hour or two of your time - and they let you avoid the mess of pumpkin guts.
Sen. Tammy Duckworth - Who Lost Her Legs in Iraq - Obliterates Trump's Transgender Ban
As an experienced veteran who nearly lost her life in Iraq, Sen. Tammy Duckworth might be one of the members of the Senate best equipped to analyze Donald Trump's military transgender ban. And the Democrat from Illinois did just that in a sharply worded message shared on Twitter on Aug. 24.
In the note, Duckworth recalled the near-fatal injuries she suffered in Baghdad in 2004 when a grenade hit the helicopter she was copiloting. "When I was bleeding to death in my Black Hawk, I didn't care if the troops saving me were gay, straight, transgender, black, white or brown," she wrote.
When I was bleeding to death in my Black Hawk, I didn't care if the troops saving me were gay, straight, transgender, black, white or brown http://pic.twitter.com/FTzjHpZuuH
- Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) August 24, 2017
Duckworth moved beyond her personal experiences to add further criticism on the policy in a pair of tweets following her statement. In those missives, she called the proposed ban both "discriminatory" and "disruptive."
The ban on transgender servicemembers isn't just discriminatory, it's disruptive to our military&counterproductive to our nat'l security
- Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) August 24, 2017
If Pres Trump enacts this ban, then those in Congress who oppose this discrimination must pass legislation to prevent it from taking effect
- Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) August 24, 2017
Duckworth has vocally opposed many of Trump's policies in recent months. In April, Duckworth used her first speech on the Senate floor to take on Trump's proposed border wall, referring to leaders who think it's "better to hide behind walls than to help lead with strength," and pointing out the power of immigrants to shape our country. And earlier in August, Duckworth criticized Trump's approach to North Korea during an appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers. On the show, she also described Trump's tweet proposing the transgender ban as "foolish."
Aldi's Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Pretzels Will Definitely Convert Any Hater
The pumpkin spice foods just keep coming and coming, and we aren't mad about it. We've tried a little bit of everything, from Ben & Jerry's ice cream to pumpkin yogurt. Several of our favorite stores are even releasing a collection of pumpkin-flavored foods for Fall, including Aldi, which has a few pumpkin options to choose from.
One of Aldi's pumpkin treats is pumpkin spice yogurt-covered pretzels, which will be available for $2 starting Oct. 18 in stores. We got our hands on a bag just a little early, and trust me when I say that if there is only one pumpkin spice food you pick up this Fall, it should be these. The yogurt-covered pretzels taste like a pumpkin pie, thanks to the pretzels. The yogurt coating has a pumpkin flavor that includes all the spices reminiscent of Fall, like cinnamon and nutmeg. The crunchy snacks are so good that you might find yourself chowing down the entire bag, kinda like I just did. They're so good, though, that they're hard to resist!
I Tried The Pioneer Woman's Famous Turkey Tetrazzini, and It's Near Perfect
Despite its Italian sounding name, the pasta casserole, Tetrazzini is all-American, named after a famous opera singer, and believed to have been invented in San Francisco. I tried out The Pioneer Woman's Turkey Tetrazzini, where she brilliantly suggests using leftover turkey meat in place of chicken, perfect for those Thanksgiving leftovers.
Admittedly, this was my first time ever making a Tetrazzini, and unless you're making it for eight to 10 people, I suggest cutting The Pioneer Woman's recipe in half. This dish comes together fast so be sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking, including making the spaghetti. I loved the big chunks of turkey combined with the smoky flavor from the bacon. The spaghetti, oozing melted cheese, and panko breadcrumb topping makes this a great meal to curl up with when you need a bit of homestyle cooking.
I found the recipe lacked some key ingredients like fresh herbs, so next time I would add fresh parsley and thyme to elevate the flavors in the pasta. I do, however, like how versatile this recipe is because you can replace the turkey with chicken or seafood or even make it vegetarian with broccoli florets or cauliflower. Overall, this baked pasta is easy to make and would be a comforting home-cooked meal during the holidays.
Get the recipe: Pioneer Woman's Turkey Tetrazzini
This Makeup Artist Creates Otherworldly Works of Art on Her Body
Hollywood special effects makeup artist Emily Anderson works on movies and TV shows creating gashes, wounds, and spooky creatures. But even in her spare time, she's dedicated to her craft, posting out-of-this-world body art creations on Instagram. One visit to her feed will have you thinking about your next Halloween costume . . . even if it's the middle of Winter!
Her looks range from terrifying monsters to ethereal beings, with a few of your favorite pop culture characters mixed in, too. Several of her creations are so convincing, that Emily blends into the background and disappears completely, leaving only an eerie masterpiece behind.
You likely won't be surprised to learn that these transfixing designs can be time-consuming to create. On Reddit, she's explained that her work can take hours. However, if you're hoping to try your hand at this kind of makeup artistry, you should know that Emily's favorite tools include stage makeup brands such as Mehron, Ben Nye and the Wolfe Art FX Hydrocolor Palette ($30) to achieve the saturated colors of her creations. Read on to see some of Emily's most striking looks.
End Bloat and Lose Weight by Drinking This Kitchen Staple
Chances are that you have a bottle of olive oil reserved for cooking, but drinking this kitchen staple can provide you with the same healthy benefits of this antioxidant-rich wonder - if not more. From a happier digestive system to banishing belly fat, here's why you should start and end every day with a tablespoon of olive oil.
- It helps fight breast cancer: A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that women who followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil had a relatively lower risk of breast cancer than those women who followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with mixed nuts or a diet that was lower in fat. If the Mediterranean diet is new to you, start with this guide of which foods to eat when adopting it into your lifestyle. Besides protecting against breast cancer, the diet has also been shown to slow the aging process and reduce the risk of stroke.
- It reduces the risk of heart disease: While it may seem counterintuitive that drinking olive oil can help protect the heart from disease, multiple studies confirm the claim to be true thanks to the MUFAs, or monounsaturated fats, olive oil contains - so much so that the FDA allows manufacturers to label olive oil with this health claim. The FDA recommends consuming just around two tablespoons per day to protect the heart. Just a note that olive oil should replace saturated fats in your diet rather than add to your current calorie intake.
- It encourages weight loss: The same good fats that protect the heart from disease can also aid you in achieving any weight-loss goals you may have. Not only have MUFAs been shown to help the body feel full, but they also target belly fat. Add olive oil to your list of flat-belly foods you should be eating.
- It helps with digestion: While there isn't a lot in the way of scientific research - just a few smaller studies - olive oil is widely (and successfully) used as a homeopathic remedy to help the digestive system and ease symptoms of constipation. Acting as a lubricant of sorts, drinking olive oil is said to help things move along better in the colon.
Ellie Transformed Her Body in Her 40s With the Help of Gold's Gym
Forty-two-year-old Ellie Carter from St. Paul, MO, went through the devastating loss of her father at the same time she was diagnosed with her own serious medical issues - it was the perfect storm for gaining weight.
Ellie: Before
She fought through her medical setbacks with the help of Gold's Gym's challenges, and now she's biceps curling her kids and no longer on the three prescription medications she once needed. Here's the story of how she got her life back, plus tips you can apply to your own healthy journey.
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Ellie Carter: I was tired and in constant pain and had put on a lot of weight. One day, my 3-year old said, "Mommy, come play with us." And before I could respond, my 5-year old said, "Mommy can't play with us. Mommy is tired and doesn't feel good."
At that point I realized that was not what I wanted my kids to remember from their childhood. My dad had just lost his battle with leukemia, and I had so many fond memories of the fun things he did with us growing up. I wanted my kids to have the same fond memories when they looked back on their childhood. At that point I knew I needed to make a change - for me, for my health, for my husband, and especially for my kids.
PS: What drew you to Gold's Gym specifically?
EC: I had done the 12-week Gold's Gym challenge in 2016; it worked in kick-starting my health and fitness journey. After completing the challenge last year, my dad was diagnosed with incurable leukemia, and I was shortly thereafter also diagnosed with serious medical issues. All I had gained during the challenge was quickly lost. Most of my free time was spent running around to doctor's appointments, and my nutrition consisted of whichever fast-food drive through was close and convenient.
I kept my membership throughout my medical issues. I had made great strides last year through the energy and enthusiasm I felt every time I walked in the door. So, of course, I needed to feel that energy and enthusiasm again to get my life back on track. The group exercise classes were always so engaging!
"I needed to feel that energy and enthusiasm again to get my life back on track."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
EC: Group exercise classes keep me going! When I work out outside of those classes, I always feel like I can't do one more set. But in the group classes, the energy and constant encouragement keeps me going the entire hour!
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
EC: I target certain muscle groups on specific days, rotating each week. And I mix in cardio-only days in between the weightlifting/muscle group days.
Ellie: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
EC: I have a fun music playlist that get me going and in the mood. I switch up my routines to keep it from getting monotonous. And I've started involving my kids! They love sitting on my back while I plank, and they think it's a fun game when I biceps curl them.
PS: How much weight have you lost?
EC: Eighteen pounds and counting! My journey is still ongoing!
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
EC: The energy I now have, the way the stress levels have decreased dramatically, but most importantly the fact that my doctor has removed me from THREE prescription medications. Additionally, all my numbers are now in good healthy ranges (i.e., cholesterol).
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
EC: Just the use of a traditional scale.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
EC: Breakfast: protein shake blended with fruit and spinach. Snack: boiled egg, fruit. Lunch: spinach or kale salad, and some sort of a lean protein (fish, chicken, turkey) with a carb. Snack: fresh veggies and usually hummus. Dinner: lean meat, veggies, and small portion of carbs.
PS: Do you count calories?
EC: I use a meal tracker that helps me count calories. I find that if I count and watch what I eat, I'm more conscious and deliberate about sticking to a healthy routine. I eat 1,200-1,500 calories depending on my workouts planned for the day.
Ellie: Before and After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
EC: Fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, spinach and kale for salads, fat-free Greek yogurt (for dips and dressings), and hummus.
"If I watch what I eat, I'm more conscious and deliberate about sticking to a healthy routine."
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
EC: I research the menu and plan for something healthy. If there are salads, I get low-fat/low-cal dressings, usually without cheese. If there are marinades or preps, I ask for no butter and sauces on the side. Additionally, I'll ask for a to-go box and plan to cut the portion size down since most restaurants serve you enough food for two to three meals.
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker?
EC: Yes, the Fitbit Charge HR. It has helped me track and keep an eye on my fitness level for the day, and it helps me keep track of my sleep too - that's been very important as well. I need an adequate amount of rest to feel refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.
PS: What role did Gold's Gym play in your journey?
EC: Gold's Gym is where my fitness journey began. The employees and instructors are all so friendly and greet you with big smiles when you arrive. My kids go to Kids Klub when I work out and they LOVE it. They often beg me and bug me about when they can go again! The other people working out at Gold's Gym become familiar faces and often greet you and help keep the energy going throughout. I would definitely recommend Gold's Gym!
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
EC: Take the time to sit down and set your goals. What is your big, deep-down "why" you're doing this? Break that big goal into smaller, attainable goals. Don't expect the scale to move right away. You'll see and feel differences (energy, tightness of clothing, etc.) long before you'll see the needle on the scale move. And most importantly, don't get discouraged! It takes time!
17 Star Wars Costumes That Are So Easy, It's Ridiculous
Trying to keep costume costs low is never an easy feat, but if you dress up as Star Wars characters, it can be! Hopefully these DIY ideas will give you enough inspiration - if not, you can try going as a Star Wars couple or looking at several other DIY-friendly geeky ideas.
This Glorious Marriott Will Deliver a 10-Pound Doughnut to Your Door
Sure, you can make your own giant Funfetti doughnut at home, but what if you could order one through room service and have it delivered to your door? JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in California is doing just that! The hotel is now offering a "Donut Disturb" special in which a 10-pound doughnut is brought to you via room service for the reasonable price of $219. This package includes a round of milkshakes to pair with the doughnut and a $50 hotel credit to be used at the spa, golf course, or hotel dining.
How did the chefs create such a giant doughnut? It's technically cake and it's made fresh in house. Layers of vanilla chiffon cake, cream, and raspberry jam are molded into a doughnut shape and coated in fondant. A coffee lacquer is sprayed on the outside (to give it a fried doughnut appearance). Strawberry glaze is drizzled on top and then it's finally coated in large homemade sprinkles.
Luckily for us, the team at Foodbeast ordered the doughnut so we can all live vicariously. Foodbeast founder Elie Ayrouth told POPSUGAR that the doughnut tasted "[l]ike the most delicious wedding cake possible." He added, "[I]t's definitely lavish, fun to order to the room to get your weekend going and then we just had it all weekend to pick at. [O]bviously [we] didn't eat it all in one s[i]tting." After seeing all the close-ups of this humongous doughnut, you may be inspired to book a trip to Desert Springs ASAP.
Shape and Tone Your Butt in Just 3 Weeks
A shapely, rounded, perky tush not only gives you confidence in your yoga pants and bathing suit, but toning your backside with butt exercises will also make you stronger for your active lifestyle whether you run, cycle, swim, dance, climb, or play sports. This challenge takes minutes to do each day, requires no equipment, and is simple enough even for bodyweight-exercise newbies.
Getting started: This challenge consists of five basic exercises that target your glutes and thighs. Over the course of the challenge, you will increase the number of reps you're doing of each exercise, eventually working up to three sets of 15 reps for each exercise. Below is an explanation of how to do each of the five exercises, followed by the plan itself. If the challenge ever feels too easy, go ahead and increase the number of reps, or repeat the circuit for another round.
Holy Hell! This Running + Strength Workout Is Intense
There are weeks when all you have time for is a one-and-done workout. The kind of workout that leaves sweat dripping from every inch of your body and every muscle shaking. The kind of workout that takes less than an hour to finish, but feels like you were working out for two. This is one of those workouts. If you're short on time, but need a solid sweat session, this beginner combo workout will do you right! A mix of strength training and running, you'll be tasked to push yourself to your edge, while getting stronger, leaner, and faster!
The Workout
Start off with the 10-minute strength session, then follow it up with the beginner-friendly treadmill interval workout. Before jumping into the workout, be sure to get in a quick dynamic warmup.
Strength
Go through the below circuit, doing as many rounds as possible in 10 minutes. Feel free to modify the exercises to suit your fitness level.
- 30 jump rope single unders (if you don't have a jump rope, do lateral bunny hops)
- 10 deadlifts using a heavy set of dumbbells or weighted bar
- 15 jump squats
- 10 negative push-ups
After cycling through 10 minutes of the strength circuit, hop on the treadmill for a satisfying interval workout that alternates between jogging and walking.
Cardio
| Time | Speed | Incline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0:00-5:00 | 3.0 | 1.0 | Warmup |
| 5:00-6:00 | 5.5 | 1.0 | Ladder One |
| 6:00-7:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 7:00-9:00 | 5.5 | 1.0 | |
| 9:00-10:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 10:00-13:00 | 5.5 | 1.0 | |
| 13:00-14:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 14:00-18:00 | 5.5 | 1.0 | |
| 18:00-20:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 20:00-21:00 | 5.5 | 4.0 | Ladder Two |
| 21:00-22:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 22:00-24:00 | 5.5 | 3.0 | |
| 24:00-25:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 25:00-28:00 | 5.5 | 3.0 | |
| 28:00-29:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Recover |
| 29:00-33:00 | 5.5 | 1.0 | |
| 33:00-38:00 | 3.5 | 1.0 | Cooldown |
The 1 Thing This 9-Year-Old Kid Does Each Morning Will Make Your Day a Million Times Better
Lauren Cormier knows that it's important to teach your children lessons that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives - and looking at the glass half-full is an important one. But sometimes practicing what they preach is a challenge for parents, and Cormier learned the key to starting each day on a positive note from an unlikely source: her 9-year-old son.
She shared her son's daily routine to her Facebook page, Oh, Honestly, so other families could give it a try:
Last week my nine-year-old told me about a new habit he's starting to form. It's something so simple, yet has the potential to profoundly change his life. Every morning he thinks of one or two things he's looking forward to that day. Little things like having gym class or getting pizza for lunch. In effect, he's training his mind to focus on the positive, which in turn, improves his entire attitude and outlook.
Cormier put her son's method to the test one morning, and the result highlights the difference between a child's way of thinking and how the adult mind works.
"This morning as we drove to school, I decided to extend his idea to the rest of us. I asked each of the kids to tell me one thing they were looking forward to today," she wrote. "After each of us had a turn, I thought about all the things they might not be looking forward to, but I didn't want to ruin what we had just done."
That's exactly when the mama discovered another helpful trick:
"Then I realized I could re-frame the negative. Instead of asking the kids to tell me something they weren't looking forward to, I asked them to tell me what I could pray about for them today. I explained that I spend my drive home praying for each of their days and that I'd love to be specific in my prayers," she said.
Cormier also reminded parents that starting the day in a positive mindset can have a long-term effect. "Our attitudes will make or break our day, week, month, year, LIFE. And although I believe that some people are naturally inclined to a sunnier outlook than others, I also believe that we can train ourselves to focus on the positive instead of the negative."
This Is Halloween, Disney Style! 12 Songs That Will Put You in the Festive Spirit
Does anyone do Halloween better than Disney? No, the answer is no. Between spooky classics like The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus and Disneyland rides like The Haunted Mansion, Disney just gets it. We pulled together our favorite villain anthems, attraction themes, and Disney-fied classics to come up with the ultimate Halloween playlist for Disney fans. Listen below!
- "This Is Halloween," The Citizens of Halloween (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
- "Once Upon a Dream," Lana Del Rey (Maleficent)
- "Heffalumps and Woozles," Chorus, Bobbi Page, and Jim Andron (Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day)
- "999 Happy Haunts," The Happy Haunts
- "I Put a Spell on You," Freak on a Leash (Hocus Pocus)
- "Oogie Boogie's Song," Ed Ivory and Ken Page (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
- "The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Theme," Richard Bellis and Marius Constant
- "Witchcraft," Movie Sounds Unlimited (Frankenweenie)
- "Poor Unfortunate Souls," Pat Carroll (The Little Mermaid)
- "Monster Mash," Goofy
- "Ghostly Music Box," Music Box - Haunted Mansion
- "Cruella De Vil," Bill Lee (101 Dalmatians)
Don't forget: you'll need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists!
The 7 Trendiest Fragrances Everyone Will Be Wearing This Fall
It's officially time to haul your booties out from under the bed, drop off your favorite coat at the dry cleaner, wrap yourself up in a cozy scarf, and pick out a new fragrance to wear all season long. That's why we enlisted the help of perfume gurus to detail the top Fall fragrance trends and dish on fresh launches to help you narrow down your (many) choices.
"Traditionally, Fall is a time when we want darker, woodsier, patchouli scents, reminding us of gatherings around the crackling fireplace, sipping brandy or mulled wine, and crisp mornings with glorious colors of foliage," said Sue Phillips, a fragrance trend forecaster.
It's true that scents tend to lean warmer in the colder months, but this isn't a roundup of the same old stuff you see year after year. Both indie and mass perfumers have become increasingly clever and experimental with their scents, and the trends outlined ahead are proof of that.
We Found Fall's 9 Best Dark Red Lipsticks That Will Match Your Goth Soul
We've seen people match their lipstick to their eye makeup and rainbow hair, but glamorous goths know the best monochromatic look comes from coordinating your pout to your black heart. Whether you want to channel "the new Taylor" or your favorite grunge vlogger, there are so many ways to step into the beauty dark side.
You're no doubt familiar with the most popular blood-tinted hues out there, like Kat Von D's Damned, ABH's Vamp, and MAC's Diva. We highly recommend keeping all of those products in your vanity, but since Fall is fast approaching, we thought you might want to add a little gothic newness to your beauty bag.
That's why we found nine under-the-radar dark red lipsticks that will make you happier than that dancing pumpkin GIF. You'll probably recognize some of the bigger brands we picked, like Lime Crime and Hourglass, but many of these labels were new even to us. From bullets to balms, each offering brings something unique, and one even costs less than a PSL. Read on for our definitive guide to Fall's most emo hue.
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