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
Dr. Harvey Karp Thinks He Knows What May Lead to Autism in Some Children
In the years since the link between autism and vaccines was proven to be based on fraudulent data, study after study has proven that vaccines are not to blame for autism spectrum disorders. But what they haven't done is explain what does cause the disorders and why the number of children diagnosed each year is skyrocketing.
At a Healthy Child Healthy World and Environmental Working Group luncheon designed to raise awareness about pollutants in our food and environment, Dr. Harvey Karp - the pediatrician probably best known for his wildly popular The Happiest Baby series of parenting guides - turned to the topic on many parents minds and addressed concerns about autism.
He said:
"Something has changed and we all know about all this discussion about immunizations and is it mercury in immunizations, all this kind of stuff. Doesn't seem so. Lots of studies [are] being done now, as much as you can know something in science, [and] we know that immunizations are really good and they're not associated with autism.
So the question is: well then what is going on? And there's two explanations currently. One is that we're just calling things autism that we didn't used to call autism - there's a shift in diagnosis. That clearly has happened; it might be attributed, maybe, to half of the cases. But, it seems that there's another half of cases that never existed before, that are new and that shouldn't be happening. And so, we have to ask ourselves why.
And one theory, is it's an exposure to a certain class of chemicals that are called endocrine disrupting chemicals . . . It turns out that there are many different types of chemicals that are endocrine disrupting chemicals that are in plasticized plastic. You've heard of BPA, that's an endocrine disrupting chemical. BPA was first created to be an estrogen. Then they found they could put it into plastics. Every single one of you have BPA in your bodies just from all the exposure you have. You have phthalates, which are plastic parts, as well which are in every new car...things like that. All of those have a hormonal effect and there are dozens of others; all different classes. The weird thing is that hormones are signalers, they tell cells 'Do this, don't do that' and what can happen is these hormonally active chemicals make it into the brains of young babies or even before birth and shift the brain's development.
The reason I think that this could be related to autism is because it's something that isn't split evenly between boys and girls. Boys get more autism, boys get 4 times more autism, they're diagnosed 9 times more with Asperger's Syndrome. So it could be that if we just pushed it a little bit further, that may be the reason that we're seeing this increase. I don't know the answer, but I do know that we have to find the answer. Scientists are looking for that now, but we need to do more research on it."
So just what is BPA and why did it seep into our kids' brains?
According to the EWG, it was invented 120 years ago and was most recently used to manufacture hard plastic water bottles, baby bottles, and epoxy linings of metal food cans. "BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body and disrupt the endocrine system, a danger to developing humans and animals." In 2009, studies showing that BPA was leaching out of baby bottles and infant formula cans and into humans pressured leading bottle manufacturers to stop using the chemicals in their manufacturing processes, and over the next year, most states banned the use of BPA in children's products, but it is still used in many canned foods. But according to Dr. Karp, BPA's replacement, BPS, may be just as dangerous. A recent study shows that "in utero exposure to BPS might lead to neurodevelopmental disorders later in life" and "that male hormones might be particularly disturbed by this abnormal cell development."
So what's a parent to do?
BPS is not clearly marked on products and can actually be found in BPA-free products. According to The Soft Landing, parents will want to:
- Steer clear of any plastic containers marked with #7. These BPA-free products appear to be made with BPS.
- Eat as many fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables as possible. Cans used for canned fruits and veggies can be lined in BPA and BPS.
- Choose silicone storage products. They're BPA and BPS free.
- Sign up for EWG's alerts that will keep you up to date on all the latest studies and findings.
35+ Pixar Costumes to Make Your Halloween Bright and Terrific
Pixar movies make us cry, make us want to know little details about the company, and, around this time of year, make us want to dress up as the beloved animated characters for Halloween. Look ahead to get some inspiration for your costume - if any look too hard, try these DIY Pixar costumes instead or you can always try your hand at some Disney alternatives.
This Pink Train Station in Singapore Is Hands Down the Cutest Transit System to Exist
The Redhill MRT Station in Bukit Merah, Singapore, is the place of your Instagram dreams. The all-pink station is hands down the most photo-worthy transit system ever to exist and the one place we actually wouldn't mind being stranded at. We can only imagine all the fashion blogger-like pictures we'd take while waiting. And by the looks of the pretty photos on Instagram, it seems like Redhill riders have the same idea. See them ahead!
What 1 Woman Keeps in Her Fridge to Maintain Her 99.2-Pound Weight Loss
Weight Watchers is truly the healthy-living program that not only works for weight loss but also helps people keep the weight off. Just ask Bri DeMattia, who joined Weight Watchers in January 2015; by May 2016 she had lost a whopping 99.2 pounds. Even better, she's stuck with Weight Watchers' maintenance plan and kept her weight off. By stocking her fridge with healthy staples and keeping up a rigorous Zumba schedule, Bri is healthier than ever. Keep reading to learn more about her journey.
Bri Before
POPSUGAR: What was the moment or motive that made you decide to start your journey?
Bri DeMattia: After getting married and moving into our new house, I realized I couldn't even comfortably walk up the stairs. There was one instance where I was forced to walk from the basement to the second floor (whew . . . two flights of stairs!) several times in a row, and I was so out of breath I couldn't talk to the person I was on the phone with. That was the last straw for me!
PS: What made you choose Weight Watchers?
BD: I had done Weight Watchers in the past, prior to my wedding, so I knew it worked. Weight Watchers lets you live your life - I couldn't survive without eating out and birthday cake - while helping maintain a healthier lifestyle.
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
BD: Zumba! Zumba was one of the first activities I eased back into when I joined Weight Watchers. I could barely get through a class at first and hid in the far back of the room. Slowly I learned the choreography, got into better shape, and became a "front-row diva." As of 2016, I'm a licensed Zumba instructor, teaching three to four classes per week!
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
BD: I work a full-time job, so I usually exercise right after work. I pack my gym bag in the morning to make sure I have everything I need - no excuses! I try to get in five to six days of exercise (usually 50 to 60 minutes), but I always have a rest day worked in there.
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
BD: I love group exercise classes, so in addition to my Zumba classes, I also mix in weightlifting classes and high-intensity interval training. I think the group exercise classes really help motivate me because I'm surrounded by people with similar goals as I have. Group classes can be a great way to try something new!
PS: How much weight have you lost?
BD: I lost 99.2 pounds from January 2015 to May 2016.
Bri After
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
BD: Honestly, I was so proud and excited when my youngest sister decided to join Weight Watchers after seeing the progress I had made after being on the program for six to seven months. It made me so happy to know I inspired her to make a change. Now we're Zumba instructors together!
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
BD: During my weight loss, I weighed in weekly at Weight Watchers meetings for accountability. Now that I'm a Lifetime member, I still attend meetings, but on a less-frequent basis (my Zumba schedule conflicts with my regular meeting time), so I weigh myself weekly at home. I use the fit of my clothes as a better indicator of my progress now that I'm in maintenance mode.
Bri Before
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
BD: I love variety, so I'm constantly mixing up my meals by making different dishes I find on my favorite healthy-eating sites: SkinnyTaste.com and EmilyBites.com. Both ladies are Weight Watchers, so they take the guesswork out of healthy eating. A typical day for me might look like this:
- Breakfast: banana and greek yogurt or protein shake
- Lunch: turkey or ham sandwich with low-fat cheese and guacamole (avocados are my favorite!) plus a big side salad and fruit. Whatever it is I'm eating, I make sure it is heavy on protein and I bulk it up with veggies and fruit. On Weight Watchers, most fruits and veggies are zero points, so I can fill up without adding points to my meal - bonus!
- Afternoon snack (pre-workout): apple or other seasonal fruit and flavored almonds. I'll add a protein shake to hold myself over until dinner if I know I'm teaching a Zumba class and dinner will be late.
- Dinner: Salad to start, homemade cheeseburger made with lean beef, a big pile of veggies (for simplicity, I LOVE the steamable bags and always keep plenty on hand so I have no excuse not to include a veggie with dinner). I also love my new air fryer, which allows me to make homemade french fries, zucchini fries, and basically anything you'd traditionally deep-fry, but in a much healthier, practically oil-free way.
PS: Do you count anything other than SmartPoints? Why or why not?
BD: If I'm exercising a lot more than usual - for instance, when I was training for a long-distance (100-mile) bicycle ride - I also count calories. I found that I wasn't eating enough calories with all the biking I was doing, so being able to see both helped me figure out a better balance.
Bri After
PS: What's the range of SmartPoints you eat per day?
BD: On a standard day, I do my best to stick with the 36 points I get in "maintenance" mode. However, I allow myself to use FitPoints (we earn them through exercise) for times when I need more, like birthday parties, cookouts, or a splurge on dessert for date night.
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
BD: I keep tons of flavors of greek yogurts, lean lunchmeat, chicken, lean ground beef, salad ingredients with light salad dressings, mini Babybel cheeses and string cheese . . . and always tons of fresh fruit!
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
BD: My husband and I eat out frequently, at least three to four times per week between lunches and dinners. I wasn't willing to give that up during my weight-loss journey, so I work it into my day. Usually I know in advance if I'll be going out for dinner, so I'll plan a lighter lunch - maybe swap in a large grilled-chicken salad instead of my sandwich - so I have more flexibility with my dinner. My go-to meal usually consists of a protein as my main dish, a vegetable, and a side salad. I always leave room for the bread because I can't avoid it! I've found that you can make healthy choices just about anywhere, especially if you can look up the menu ahead of time and come mentally prepared to make a healthy choice.
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker? Which one? Has it helped you?
BD: Right now I have a Fitbit Blaze, which I really love because it not only tracks my heart rate so I can get a daily and workout-specific calorie burn, but it also lets me control my music when I teach my classes!
PS: What role did Weight Watchers play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
BD: I would highly recommend Weight Watchers to anyone looking to lose weight by making sustainable lifestyle changes. It won't be the quick fix some people are looking for, but Weight Watchers helps instill healthy habits like exercising portion control and balancing meals when you have events later that day or later that week. I also love Weight Watchers meetings for the accountability. The meetings really provide great support because everyone there struggles with the same issues, so you never feel like you're doing it alone.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
BD: Making the choice to become healthier and lose weight is difficult, so my biggest advice would be to take it one step at a time. Start by changing your eating habits, and then venture into adding exercise or adding new exercise into your routine. Whenever you feel like you're in a rut, introduce something new . . . new types of food, a new form of exercise . . . anything to keep yourself motivated!
25 Surefire Tips to Help You Lose Those Last Few Pounds
Maybe you are super into fitness and have sworn off these bad-for-you foods, but it can still be frustrating when you're trying to lose weight and the numbers on the scale aren't shifting. Here are 25 tips to help you along your weight-loss journey, one step at a time!
Your Guide to Fenty's 16(!) Mesmerizing Highlighters
It's pretty obvious that Rihanna understands the power of the glow up. So natch, her Fenty Beauty line would be riddled with highlighters of every color variation. Any beauty virtuoso knows that a good glow isn't always one size fits all - so Fenty's range that clearly hones in on the nuances and needs of a good shimmer, in both powder and cream form, is pretty incredible. There's literally one for everyone!
If you're new to highlighter, you may be wondering where to begin. Here's a decoder on all 16 highlighters in the Fenty Beauty collection.
These Are Fall's 10 Hottest Brunette Hues, According to Hair Pros
From rich chestnut to smoky chocolate, there's a whole range of hair color options for those who prefer brunette looks. Whether you're interested in a slight change or something drastic, you're bound to find inspiration from a bevy of brown-haired celebrities.
To help highlight the hottest dark hair shades of the moment and determine which color works best for your complexion, we consulted a few celebrity hair pros. Not only did they dish on current trends, but they also detailed how to achieve these colors so that your stylist can more easily re-create the look - just for you!
The Meaning Behind Each of Demi Lovato's Tattoos
Demi Lovato got her first tattoo when she was 16, and she really hasn't slowed down. Over the years, Demi seems to debut a new tattoo every time she steps out on a red carpet or posts a photo on Instagram. In a 2014 interview with iHeart Radio, the 25-year-old revealed she doesn't even know how many tattoos she has. "Well, it's difficult because it's like I lost count [...]," she's said. "Do you count the 'Stay' and 'Strong'? Do you count the individual birds? And, then, I have feathers connected to an old tattoo, so I have no idea. I have a lot. It could be 10. It could be 26!" she said. "I have a very, very high pain tolerance."
While Demi might have lost count, we did our best investigative work and tried to compile all of her ink. Brace yourself, because the list is extensive!
Just Get Through the First Year
You give birth to a perfect, squirmy little potato sack of sweetness. You smell their newborn scent and you pet their wispy newborn hair. For weeks you stare at their tiny, adorable features during the short time each day when you're not falling asleep with your eyes open because you've been up at all hours of the night. And then you're up all day feeding them, taking them to the doctor, changing their diaper, and changing their outfit after they spit up or pooped on the first one.
You're trying to find time to put on real clothes yourself, maybe have a meal that isn't from a box, and oh, by the way, the laundry basket is overflowing again. But halfway through putting the detergent in the washing machine the baby starts crying and you stop what you're doing only to realize six hours later that you never actually turned the washing machine on and you still have no idea what you're having for dinner because you haven't been to the grocery store in a week.
Your boobs are leaking and your neck hurts from nursing and then your partner comes home and they want to talk about their day or eat a meal that you don't have cooked and all you want to do is hand the baby over and be alone for one minute.
Just hang in there.
Maybe around four months in, your baby finally starts sleeping longer stretches - thankgodhallelujah - and you're starting to feel like you aren't a complete walking zombie even though four-hour increments do not a full night's sleep make. You're getting in a better feeding routine and your baby is becoming a bit more predictable, sort of. But nap time, which is apparently any time, is still a disaster.
So you spend most of your day either trying to get them to fall asleep or trying to get them to stay asleep when you aren't feeding them or changing their diaper. And they're starting to be awake a little more, so the time you used to spend with the TV on you now feel like you have to spend dangling toys in front of them (even though they really don't do anything at all and you wish they would just sleep on your chest).
Getting out of the house is getting easier and sometimes you even put makeup on first. But also the dishwasher needs to be emptied again and that dinner isn't going to make itself. Maybe you just went back to work and now you have to manage your baby's childcare schedule and also show up to work on time wearing something other than black stretch pants.
Even though you eat your whole lunch without interruption, you still spend half the day worrying about your baby.
Even though you eat your whole lunch without interruption, you still spend half the day worrying about your baby with their nanny/at their day care/with your mother-in-law and you rush out of the office to make it home just in time to soak up two precious hours with them before bedtime. And as you run past your partner to scoop your baby into your arms, you realize you've been putting them before your partner every minute since the minute they took their first breath and you kind of miss how you and your partner used to be together.
Just hang in there.
Things are getting smoother and your little one is getting more consistent, waking up only once or twice at night and finally getting those naps in during the day. Then their first tooth comes through and they are not happy about it and want you to know how much it pisses them off in the middle of the night (and also during the day). And they keep getting teeth that disrupt their sleep at about the same time that you start feeding them solids. So now you have to figure out what your baby is going to eat in addition to figuring out what you're going to eat and what everyone else in your house is going to eat. Every. Single. Day.
Now your baby is starting to move a little. Maybe sitting up, maybe rolling around. They require constant supervision because that one time you thought they were OK for those two minutes that you ran to move the laundry from the washer to the dryer you came back and they were face-down wedged between the coffee table and the couch. And you realize that now's the time you should probably baby-proof the house, so you put it on the to-do list under every single other thing that you need to get done but haven't had time for, including that much-needed date night and that maybe-even-more-needed girls' night.
Just hang in there.
Now your baby is finally getting fun. They're smiling and laughing and ohmygod so cute with their chubby cheeks and leg rolls. And dressing them in those cute outfits is totally worth it now because they don't blow out of every single diaper four times a day (even if they do get sweet potato stains on everything). They're starting to interact more and play with all those toys you've been waiting for them to be interested in for the last eight months. They're babbling and drooling because they're still getting teeth that keep them up at night even if it isn't as bad as it was a few months ago.
But now they're starting to crawl. They find the tiniest speck of dirt on the floor and your older child's rogue Lego under the couch and immediately shove them into their mouths when you're not looking and even when you are. They grab at everything, including the pile of laundry that you just folded and the power cord to your laptop that you left on the couch after you tried to send one last work email. They're eating more which means you are buying bananas every other day and ordering pouches in bulk off Amazon.
You're trying to figure out how to drop a feeding and replace it with a meal, but are you sure they're getting enough to eat or drinking enough liquid? You maybe dropped that afternoon bottle too quickly because they start waking up really early and it must be because they are hungry, right? Or maybe it's because they're only napping for 45 minutes at a time and you can't for the life of you get them to stay asleep longer. But at least that is the exact amount of time you need to watch one prerecorded episode of Real Housewives, even though you have so much you should be doing - including baby-proofing your house - during those precious minutes.
Just hang in there.
Finally, your baby is rounding the corner to their first birthday. Your baby is the most fun ever now. They crawl at lightning speed and hang onto your pant legs when they want to be picked up. They're starting to pull up on everything, which reminds you that you never bolted that dresser to the wall after you watched that one video of the twin toddlers that pulled the dresser down on top of themselves because their parents didn't bolt it to the wall. You spend too many hours trying to decipher what they're trying to tell you with their constant grunting and whining and pointing so you give in and just let them have a pacifier dangling from their mouths all day long.
They're getting sick of eating sweet potatoes every day, but you're too scared to give them other real foods because what if they choke?! So you keep giving them purees to save yourself the anxiety and because you have too many other things to stress about, like why haven't they taken their first step yet?
It was probably at the top of your to-do list, but you threw it out the window.
Maybe something is wrong, because your neighbor's 11-month-old already started walking around the coffee table, which reminds you, you never put those corner edge protector things on. It was probably at the top of your to-do list, but you threw it out the window when your baby started waking up screaming at night, more than usual, and you let them cry it out, thinking, "I've got to get this sleeping situation under control."
But then a week later you take them to the doctor and find out they've had a terrible ear infection this whole time and you think it must have happened because of the cold they had that probably came from that one kid at day care who always has the runny nose. You knew you should have kept them out longer but you had no choice because you had to go back to work. But your baby loves hanging out with the other babies at day care. It's so good for them.
You rationalize this with your partner, who you call after you find out about the ear infection, but they have to call you back because they're in the middle of something and you mean to talk to them about it later but you forget and fall asleep on the couch trying to finish watching Real Housewives and folding that pile of laundry.
Just hang in there.
Now your baby is the best ever except for when you're trying to put them in their car seat - that is when they are the worst. They're navigating around the coffee table with ease and toddling from one object to another, and when they don't face plant, it is so cute you have to take a video of it every single time.
You finally got them down to two feedings and they are all about solid foods now that they have enough teeth and you're not freaking out about giving them tiny pieces of bread or maybe even some scraps off your own plate. They probably wake up way too early most mornings, but at least they finally sleep through the night - unless they're sick - which means you get to sleep through the night sometimes, too, and have started seeing yourself in the mirror again instead of that horrendous, exhausted person who's been staring back at you for the last year. You wonder if your partner notices the change even though you can't remember the last time you had sex or spoke of anything other than the baby or the kids or the groceries or the schedule.
Just hang in there.
You finally get around to uploading a few pictures from their first birthday party to the photo stream and now your baby is getting closer to the age where you can't answer how old they are in month increments anymore because it would take too long to do the math. You're sitting on the couch for a minute, the laundry is cycling in the dryer, and your partner is bringing home dinner.
You've just returned from a 24-hour weekend getaway and you're feeling recharged and well-rested. Your to-do list is the shortest it's ever been even though you still have so much to do, but it doesn't feel like you're carrying the list around all day like a 20-pound dumbbell anymore. You've packed up the bottles and put away the drying rack that looks like grass and took up half your counter top, and sweet potato is only on the menu for dinner like once a week.
What's that feeling? It's like you can kind of breathe again, like you feel a little more like yourself again.
What's that feeling? It's like you can kind of breathe again, like you feel a little more like yourself again - like you aren't so confused and questioning and unsure of all the things because your baby isn't constantly changing from week to week, minute to minute, anymore. And you don't know when it happened, but you realize that sometime after that epic first birthday party that was your Pinterest board brought to life that it got a little easier.
The Amazon diaper delivery comes a little less frequently and you remember the last conversation you had with your partner that was about something other than logistics. Maybe you've even seen a movie and drank too much wine at girls' night. You've arrived, at the other side, into the light.
You made it through the first year.
You start to envision the adventurous vacations you'll be able to take in just a few short years because the kids will be the perfect age. And you know it's only a matter of weeks until your toddler's attention span is longer than 20 minutes and you'll be able to plop them in front of a movie so you can eat takeout and drink a whole glass of wine while actually sitting at the table with your partner, who you've remembered is actually pretty great even though they still can't read your mind.
And then you realize that if you want your kids to be close in age, you should really start thinking about having another one, but the idea of starting over nearly makes you want to faint, or cry, or both. But things are better, so much better, and it's just been 19 months or so. You don't remember why or when they stopped waking up at night, but you know it happened, and you can't verify the details of those feeding schedules because you've long since blocked that from your memory. And you think: just get through the first year.
The first year is the hardest, right?
How to Have Sex in Your Own Damn House Without Your Kids Seeing
The more little ones you have puttering around the house, the harder it is to get it on. No surprise there. And although the key to any healthy relationship is sneaking in some alone time now and then, it can be a real challenge when your kids are constantly screaming "WHAT YOU DOIN'?" at the top of their lungs. If you're having trouble getting intimate with your partner, try one of these parent-tested tricks. Because let's be honest: the kids you already have weren't exactly dropped off by a stork.
How the Patties Are So Darn Juicy and 5 More Secrets From a Former Five Guys Employee
Five Guys may have just been named America's number one burger chain, but it turns out there's way more to the restaurant than grease-laden takeout bags and peanut-shell-covered floors. A former Five Guys employee, who worked at the burger and fries joint for a few months, recently did a Reddit AMA, and things got juicy (pun semi-intended). During the "Ask Me Anything" conversation online, the employee spilled details on the chain's french fries, burger meat, and so much more. Read on to get the insider scoop.
You can add literally anything you want to their grilled cheese.
When asked what the most popular menu items are, the former Five Guys employee said, "If I had to break it down, it would probably be 60 percent order some kind of burger, 25 percent order a dog, 10 percent a grilled cheese, and BLT/veggie is 5 percent. I would recommend the grilled cheese, you can add anything you want to it, even a patty!" Furthermore, they later added that grilled cheese is their personal favorite choice because "it's the safest thing to eat on the menu."
The meat may not be as great as you think.
On the quality of the meat used in burgers, the former employee said, "Honestly? Not very good. It's not even seasoned, and sometimes we served bad meat." When another user chimed in to ask for more details on this tidbit, they clarified by saying it was meat that "was unsafe to serve to guests. Gray, slimy meat that we were still forced to serve. Also, meat that fell on the floor." Hmm, I think I've lost my appetite.
About that "small" order of fries . . .
Another user asked, "What is the rationale behind ordering a 'small' fries, putting a tiny cup in the bag and then pouring four pounds of potatoes on top?" It turns out, it's actually mean to be a bit of an "illusion." The employee explained, "When you order a small fry (for example, but they do this for all sizes) you are paying for all of the fries that go into the bag. That 'extra' scoop is kind of an illusion, they told us during training that its to make customers think they're getting a big bargain. And you can ask for the cup with no topper if you want, you can do that."
There's a reason the patties are so freakin' juicy.
When one Reddit user commented on how fresh and juicy their burger patty was, the former employee replied that it's all about the cooking method. "We're not supposed to press down on it, that removes the juices," they said.
Why do they have free peanuts?
"The peanuts are to distract the customers so that they won't stare at us."
Plot twist: Some employees actually think In-N-Out is better.
Ah, the never-ending battle of Five Guys versus In-N-Out! When one Reddit commenter asked for the former employee's take on the matter, they said, "In-n-Out is way better, hands down." Moreover, they continued by saying, "As an insider, i can tell you In-N-Out is probably safer." Oh dear . . .
Take Our Ultimate Halloween Day Challenge
If you're Halloween-obsessed, you know that Oct. 31 isn't a day to take lightly. It should be observed as a federal holiday, honestly. For all you hardcore witches and ghouls, we've come up with the ultimate Halloween challenge with fun to-dos on your favorite day. So prep your costume and attempt to complete all 13 of these activities if you dare.
Outlander: Here's When the Infamous Print Shop Scene Is Coming
If you're an Outlander fan who has not read the books, do you sometimes feel like book readers are perhaps speaking a different language? Talking about things like the headstone, Mr. Willoughby, and the famous "print shop scene"? If you're particularly curious about that last one, we're here to help with a primer for this heart-stopping moment. Be warned: there are light book spoilers ahead.
In Voyager, the third book in Diana Gabaldon's series upon which the Starz drama is based, the print shop scene happens about a third of the way through the novel. In it, Claire has traveled back to Scotland (not a spoiler, we all knew that was coming) and is quite nervous about seeing Jamie again after 20 years. In fact, prior to leaving 1968, Claire asks her former medical school classmate and now-colleague Joe Abernathy if she is still sexually attractive.
"I haven't seen [Jamie] in 20 years. You're the only person I know who's known me for a long time; have I changed terribly since we met?" Claire asks Joe.
Joe assures her that it'll be like going to a high school reunion. "You see they've got some gray, and some lines, and maybe they aren't just the same as they were, but two minutes past that shock, and you don't see it anymore. They're just the same people they always were," he tells Claire.
Actress Caitriona Balfe sat down for a group interview at the 2017 Summer TCA, where she explained that at first she was against Claire being so insecure, but she came to really like that aspect of the character.
"I think it ends up being quite a sweet thing to do because . . . it's boring to play someone as strong and positive all the time. It gives her a vulnerability that I think ends up playing very well," said Balfe. "At the end of the day, we all worry on some level about how we look and how somebody sees us and she's worried about meeting the man that she loved so much again after 20 years and it's not just, 'Is he going to love me again?' but, 'Will he actually find her attractive again?' which I think is a valid point to play."
So Claire pushes past her insecurities because, hey - it's Jamie (!), and they're about to be reunited. When Claire enters his Edinburgh print shop, Jamie is so stunned at seeing her (and that she's real, not a hallucination or a dream) that he faints dead away.
It's a lovely scene, definitely worthy of a epic romantic reunion between two meant-to-be lovers. And the show version does not disappoint, especially because it doesn't solely explore the scene from Claire's point of view. It also gives us some insight into Jamie's life and his perspective on seeing Claire again.
We can't tell you exactly when it happens, but we can tease for you that you don't have to wait too much longer. Showrunner Ron Moore revealed this Summer at the TCA that the big Jamie-Claire reunion is at least five episodes in, "almost halfway through the season," which is 13 episodes long.
Not only that, but if you think the print shop scene is great, hold on for the scene where Claire and Jamie spend the night in his room together getting to know one another again.
No specifics, but executive producer Maril Davis has teased a few juicy details for us. Davis said they are "so proud" of that episode because they spend "a luxurious amount of time" with that scene.
"We wanted to have it not be the classic romance-novel moment," added Balfe. "We wanted to play with it in terms of that they're like two teenagers again, to do some kind of mirroring to the wedding episode, where even though they've never forgotten about each other, they don't really know each other, so there's definitely a process of discovery and they're not quite sure what to do with their bodies or their words. I think that lends a realism to it."
"It's kind of our love letter to the fans," said Davis.
The Top 10 Airports in the US and Canada (#1 Will Surprise You)
If you've traveled enough, you know how much an airport can make or break your travel experience. It is the first and last place you'll be at for every trip, after all. The J.D. Power 2016 North America Airport Satisfaction Study was based on the responses of nearly 40,000 participants who looked at the following categories: terminal facilities, airport accessibility, security check, baggage claim, check-in/baggage check, food, beverage, and retail. Among that list, we highlighted the top 10 airports across the US and Canada. Can you guess which snagged the number one spot?
These Skull Logs Are the Best Thing to Happen to Halloween Since Candy
Turn up your Halloween decorating this year in the most unexpected way: with human skull logs. These macabre fireproof sculptures are sized and shaped exactly like the real thing, so if you toss them into your backyard fire pit, be forewarned that the neighbors just might call the cops. If you would rather put them in a gas or traditional fireplace mixed with wood, you can do that as well, since they're made of reinforced steel with lava granules and refractory ceramic (the same thing NASA uses to test rockets) and can tolerate up to 3,000 degrees! While these creepy fireproof skulls will cost you $70 a pop, they're sure to last you a very long time - the manufacturer even claims they look more realistic after a couple of burnings. They're available in black, brown, white, or aged dark gray, so pick the color that best complements your decor and get to decorating!
Calling All Westworld Addicts: 21 DIY Costumes You'll Want to Copy This Halloween
If you couldn't help but get sucked into the action-packed, gasp-worthy storyline of Westworld, we're right there with you. Besides offering more shocking plot twists than our jaws could possibly handle (because they were practically on the damn floor after the season one finale), the popular HBO series is also like a treasure trove of outfit inspiration, just begging to inspire your Halloween costume. Many crafty cosplaying geniuses have already figured out exactly how to mimic the Western-style outfits of our favorite characters from Dolores and William to the creepy Man in Black and even the Westworld lab technicians. While you not-so-patiently await the bloodbath that will be season two of the show, read on to scope out the incredible DIY Halloween costumes inspired by Westworld.
60+ of the Most Spooktacular Halloween DIYs
Yes, it IS time to start thinking about the best holiday of the year! Get ready to set the scene for your Halloween festivities with spooktacular DIYs that will have your guests screaming . . . in delight, that is. Repurpose items or hit the dollar store for materials to turn into stunning home decor or to give as fun seasonal gifts. You'll be amazed by how easily you can create something creepy and extra bootiful!
This Horror-Inspired Lipstick Line Drops Just in Time For Your Halloween Movie Marathon
As self-proclaimed Halloween obsessives, you'd best believe that we're always on the lookout for product launches related to our favorite holiday. Whether it's Hocus Pocus bath bombs or skull makeup brush holders, we're constantly hunting for ways to infuse a bit of Halloween into our beauty routine - so when LA Splash Cosmetics posted spoilers for an upcoming lipstick line inspired by classic horror stories, we immediately marked our calendars.
So far, the cult beauty brand has revealed eight shades of matte liquid lipstick that are set to drop as part of the new Classic Horror line in October. Creature - inspired by Creature From the Black Lagoon - is a vivid violet. Drac, short for Dracula, is a deep burgundy, while Frankie (of Frankenstein fame) is a brick-red hue. Dr. Jeky, one half of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, is a muted, camel-toned brown lipstick perfect for everyday wear, which begs the question . . . will there be a crazy lipstick shade inspired by his alter ego, Hyde?
Ms. Invisible, inspired by The Invisible Man, isn't invisible at all - rather, it's a muted, grungy green. Phantom has a plum-purple tone, while Mummy is a soft greige - sort of like mummy bandages! Werewolf is precisely the blue-gray hue of a midnight sky during a full moon and might just be our overall favorite shade from the line.
So far, LA Splash hasn't released many additional details about the line, but we'll be waiting with bated breath for any news about the Classic Horror collection. Here's hoping that the October drop date is early in the month, so we can wear these scary-chic lipsticks while watching 13 Nights of Halloween! In the meantime, check out the horror-inspired product packaging and a few stunning swatches.
Yes, Puerto Ricans Are US Citizens - and So Are Residents of These 3 Other Territories
Hurricane Maria's devastating impact on Puerto Rico is almost beyond words. The island of 3.4 million people was hit by the Category 4 storm on Sept. 20, but it still has almost no power and no way to communicate - and it might remain that way for months. President Trump maintains that his administration is doing a "really good job" responding to requests from the US territory, but celebrities like singer Marc Anthony have called him out for being fixated on NFL players taking a knee to protest racial injustice in the US and spending far too little time on the devastation in Puerto Rico. In his tweet, Anthony reminded Trump that Puerto Ricans are US citizens - a fact that is apparently lost on many Americans.
According to a poll by Morning Consult, of 2,200 American adults surveyed, only 54 percent knew that people born in Puerto Rico are US citizens. And it's not just Puerto Rico; anyone born in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or the US Virgin Islands is also a US citizen. Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the US, meaning that while people there are granted US citizenship, they don't get to vote in elections and can only send a nonvoting representative to Congress. In short, any natural disaster or other event that occurs in any of these places should serve as a call to action for the American government to provide assistance.
In that same Morning Consult poll, a group of American adults were told that Puerto Ricans are US citizens, and as a result, 68 percent believed the country needed more aid to rebuild and recover. But when a group wasn't told beforehand, only 64 percent believed in the same sentiment. It might explain Trump's lackluster response to Puerto Rico's situation and why Hillary Clinton said in a Sirius XM interview on Sept. 25, "I'm not sure he knows that Puerto Ricans are American citizens."
Trump has since stated, on Sept. 26, that he will visit Puerto Rico next week, and he spoke about what the administration, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency, will do to help the island.
The 20 Best Whole Foods Snacks For People on the Go
I feel like I spend far more of my time running around than actually sitting down relaxing, and for someone who loves a good snack, it limits my options for easy things I can grab and throw in my purse. Thankfully, Whole Foods has a whole host of options for busy people, including a lot for snacking. Whether you're looking for something salty or sweet (or maybe a little of both), I have full confidence you'll find something at Whole Foods. Bonus: it'll probably be pretty good for you, too!
Hiking to This WWII Plane Crash Site Will Make You Feel Like You're on the Set of Lost
If you love history and hiking, you'll want to visit Tofino, Canada, where you can go to an epic crash site. Taking this popular trail south of Radar Hill will lead you to the ruins of the Royal Canadian Air Force Canso 11007 that came down shortly after takeoff in 1945 due to a failed engine. Everyone on the flight survived, and the wreckage is actually still in pretty good shape with much of the aircraft intact.
The path itself is easy to navigate, but expect to get muddy on the way. History buffs and hikers have posted their photos at the unofficial historic site, which look like they walked onto the set of Lost. Though the ruins give off an eerie vibe, you can't help but be fascinated. See the awesome photos ahead!
Not to Sound Witchy, but a Modern Hocus Pocus Is a Recipe For Disaster
I want to start things off by saying: I'm not the sort of person who typically complains about "the good ol' days" of movies. I didn't understand the controversy about a new iteration of Ghostbusters, and I was excited about the sequel to Blade Runner before the overwhelmingly positive reviews began rolling in. I have no problem reprising, reimagining, and recasting classics - sometimes, it's necessary to help beloved franchises appeal to new generations! But when I heard that Disney Channel plans to remake the 1993 Halloween masterpiece Hocus Pocus with a modern spin, I was one of many who reacted with some variation of "hard pass."
Why, you ask? Well, aside from the obvious - there's no way this version will be able to capture the '90s-hot vibe of ghostly heartthrob Thackery Binx - there are several logistical points that make a "modern reimagining" of the original plot nearly impossible. These points might convince you that the remake is a big mistake . . . and Disney should just tap the original cast for a sequel instead.
Here's How Will & Grace Handles That Twist From the 2006 Series Finale
Ever since talk of a Will & Grace revival started, fans have been wondering just how a new series would handle the events of the original series finale. When Will & Grace 2.0 debuted Thursday, we all got our answer . . . and the short version is it's all a booze-and-drug-fueled dream of Karen Walker's.
The long answer starts with the show addressing it right at the top. In the revival, Jack wakes Karen up from a dream, and she says that in the dream, "Will was living with a swarthy man in uniform, and Grace was married to a Jew doctor."
Will tells her that they were both doing those things, but they're single now. Karen wonders what about the children they had who grew up and married each other? "That never happened," says Will, which is quite a relief to Jack and Karen because what's funny about watching Will and Grace raise kids?
That scene tracks with what creators David Kohan and Max Mutchnick told the 2017 Summer TCA audience in August. Kohan called the series finale "a fantasy," while Mutchnick said that if the show hadn't been ending, they "never would have gone in that direction."
Now in 2017, the title characters are still living together while "the dust settles" on Grace's genitals, er, divorce. That news coupled with some social media posts from when Harry Connick Jr. was on set, and a photo of him in the third episode of the current season, definitely indicates that Leo is still very much a presence in Grace's life.
We also know Bobby Cannavale will reprise his role as Will's love interest Vince, so there's always a chance that this revival could still keep the 2006 flash-forward intact. Perhaps by the end of this continuation, Will and Grace will be back with Vince and Leo and their kids will meet in college? You never know.
Oh, and one more thing: Karen is still rich, as opposed to when in the original finale she finds out she has no money. Will sums it up with: "Stan's alive, you're still rich, [we're] both single, no kids," to which Jack mugs at the camera:
5 Moves That Will Help You Get a Stronger Butt
Squats are a great exercise, but researchers using an EMG machine - a device that measures muscular contraction - found they work your thighs almost three times harder than your butt!
So here are five exercises that will build that booty up and strengthen and tone your legs without putting on much bulk.
Pick any of these exercises and use them instead of squats in your workout routine.
14 Tattoo Ideas For Parents Wanting to Honor Their Kids
When you have a child, it changes your life forever, and many parents decide to honor that permanence with a tattoo for their little one. From names and dates to blocks and elephants, the sky's the limit when it comes to ink representing your kiddo. Whether you're a new mom or a veteran in the game of parenthood, we rounded up 14 tattoo ideas to inspire you to keep a part of your child with you at all times.
20 of the Cutest "Ugly" Christmas Sweaters for Babies and Toddlers
The Christmas season is fast approaching, and there's no better time to prepare than now. It seems like every year, all of the adorable baby and toddler selections sell out too fast, and the opportunity to dress your kiddo in an adorable ugly Christmas sweater slips by. Dust off that Elf on the Shelf and get your planning started early with some of these perfectly cute "ugly" Christmas sweaters.
20 Things You've Been Doing Wrong in the Kitchen Your Entire Life
Are you scrambling eggs, making chocolate chip cookies, and measuring pasta the right way? It might not seem obvious, but there are plenty of basic things you could be doing the "wrong" way in the kitchen. These 20 hacks will make you a serious cooking pro if you're not already. Keep reading to learn every cooking shortcut and tip that will save you time, stress, and sanity in the kitchen.
Golden Milk: The Antidepressant, Debloating, Weight-Loss-Boosting Wonder Drink
Ready to simmer down and give your body a boost before bedtime? We've got the perfect, healthy nightcap for you, and you may have heard of it: golden milk.
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, golden milk is a combination of the powerful spice turmeric, coconut milk, and sometimes coconut oil. Black pepper is often added (in small amounts) to increase the bioavailability of (i.e., your body's ability to absorb) the superspice turmeric. Creamy and spicy, soothing and warm - this delicious drink is more than just a tasty treat. Rich in electrolytes and digestive-aiding properties, your body is going to love every sip.
- Benefits of Turmeric: Turmeric's benefits are so good, one 2013 study said it's almost too good to be true. The anti-inflammatory spice has "shown therapeutic potential against a number of human diseases," including cancer and could even help with Alzheimer's. Because of the reduced inflammation, turmeric can also help with gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort, and some studies have mentioned its help with weight loss. Also, some studies and sites have shown that turmeric has antidepressant properties, leading to better moods, less stress, better sleep, and improved brain health.
- Benefits of Coconut Oil: Similarly, coconut oil can help with digestion and gut health, thanks to its antimicrobial properties (which come from good fatty acids, MCFAs). The healthy fats can also raise your good cholesterol, HDL.
- Benefits of Coconut Milk: Did you know that coconut milk can also help with digestion? It "nourishes the digestive lining" with natural electrolytes and healthy fats, which can improve gut health and help with IBS. Like turmeric, it can help reduce inflammation and even aid in weight loss. MCTs, another kind of fatty acid, are found in coconut milk and help with physical performance - allowing you to build muscle and lose fat.
Ready to mix up a batch? We like flavoring with a little honey or agave and sometimes a bit of vanilla bean or vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger. You'll be sweetly sipping your way to health in no time!
27 Healthy Chinese Recipes That Beat Any Takeout Menu
If there's one thing we know, it's that switching up what we eat and trying out new recipes make eating healthy a whole lot easier. So, instead of reaching for the phone to order a sodium-filled meal of sesame chicken, just make a better version yourself! There are plenty of healthy, easy Chinese food recipes that will become your new "takeout," and we have them for you here.
10 Too-Real Struggles Latinas Trying to Lose Weight Will Understand
Let me preface this by saying that, in general, losing weight is no easy feat. Add Latin culture - deliciously salty and carb-filled food, family members who don't understand dieting, often unrealistic body and beauty standards - into the mix, and it can feel like an uphill battle that arroz con pollo and asados are endlessly trying to derail.
Know the feeling? Read on for the totally real struggles I've faced in my own personal weight loss/maintenance/just-trying-to-be-healthier journey as a Panamanian American with very persistent relatives, and a deep love for tacos. Then, take a scroll through some delightful guilt-free recipes.
7 High-Protein Breakfasts That Take Less Than 5 Minutes to Make
We know you're constantly crunched for time, and breakfast is often one of the first things to go when you're in a rush. But what if we told you that these recipes were packed with filling protein that'll help you reach your health and fitness goals - and that they take less than five minutes (and zero culinary skills) to make? Most of the steps in these ultraquick meals involve stirring or sprinkling, so you really don't need any special tools or kitchen prowess to make a kickass healthy breakfast.
Exactly When to Plant Pumpkin Seeds If You Want Your Own Patch by Halloween
Having your own little pumpkin garden can be really satisfying, especially if you're pumpkin-obsessed or love anything to do with Fall. Whether you have children or not, you can skip the trip to the pumpkin patch in the Fall and have your very own personal supply of pumpkins for eating, carving, and decorating. Before you rush out and plant pumpkin seeds just weeks before Halloween, consider some of our tips for planting pumpkins below.
Determine Your Pumpkin Needs
When you plant your pumpkins largely depends on what you plan on using them for. If you want to use your pumpkins for carving and pies, you can plant them in the late Spring and after the last frost. If your goal is to grow the biggest pumpkin possible, opt for planting your seeds indoors two weeks before the last frost.
Consider Your Climate
Pumpkins generally need to be planted outside after the last chance of frost has passed. However, pumpkins grow more quickly in warm weather, so if you live in a warmer climate, you can plant pumpkin seeds as late as mid-July. People in cooler climates should plant them in late May.
Plant From Seed When Possible
Although it's possible to transplant your pumpkin seedlings after starting them indoors, the best way to ensure healthy pumpkin plants is to plant them directly into the ground. Pumpkin seedlings can be a bit picky, but if you really have to start them indoors, if you harden them off before planting them in the ground, they should adjust better to the change when it comes to planting them.
Pay Attention to Soil Temperature
Pumpkins are sensitive to the cold and grow faster in warmer conditions, so it's worth your while to make sure they're planted in the warmest soil possible. If you can, wait until the soil is at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit and plant the seeds in mounds of soil. Having the soil raised will help the soil get warmer as well as help with drainage and pests.
Keep Your Pumpkins Well Fed
Pumpkins need rich soil, full sun, and lots of space to grow. Make sure that in addition to a good-quality soil, you add a mixture of compost and manure to the ground before planting. Feed them regularly by topping up the compost. Pumpkins also do well with regular fertilizing, especially when the plants are about a foot tall and just before they bloom.
Focus Your Plants
Like with other vine plants, pumpkin plants will continue to put out vines and get longer and longer if you don't cut them back. Cutting them back won't just help keep your plant contained, but it will also help your pumpkin plant focused on producing fruits. Instead of wasting energy growing the vines, it will concentrate its energy on the vines it has left and the pumpkins themselves. You can encourage this even further by removing all but a couple of pumpkin fruits if your goal is size.
4 Things That Will Happen Before Jack's Death on This Is Us
Warning: major spoilers for the This Is Us season two premiere ahead.
Well, it finally happened. After what seemed like a lifetime of guessing, This Is Us revealed how Jack dies. In a flash forward at the end of the episode, Rebecca pulls up to the Pearson family home, which has been completely burned by a fire. While the scene still leaves a few things up in the air, it's pretty obvious that Rebecca and Jack are still married when he dies (she's still wearing her wedding band). So, now that we finally know how it happens, our next question is when? We already knew that the Big Three are still teenagers when Jack dies, but there are a few other clues in the episode about the exact timing. Here are a few things that will need to happen before Jack's emotional death.
1. The Pearson Family Might Get a Family Dog
In the scene at Miguel's house, teenage Kate is seen kissing a small dog. While this could easily just be Miguel's household pet, there weren't any signs of a dog in the house when Jack stays over earlier in the episode.
2. Teenage Randall Gets a Girlfriend
Another eye-raising moment from the scene at Miguel's house is that teenage Randall seems to have a love interest. As he cries on the couch, a cute redheaded girl consoles him by kissing and holding his hand.
3. Teenage Kevin Breaks His Leg
While teenage Kate and Randall are staying at Miguel's house, teenage Kevin is seen making out with Sophie by his car. Not only is he wearing a varsity jacket, but he has a cast on his leg. Seeing that there is a big football drawn on it, it's pretty likely that he got hurt while playing the sport.
4. Rebecca Wears a Steelers Jersey
This might be the trickiest clue of all. Due to teenage Kevin's cast, it's safe to assume that Jack's death happens sometime during football season. Is Rebecca simply wearing the jersey because she doesn't have any clean laundry, or is she going to watch the game when the horrible accident happens? She definitely seems overwhelmed with emotion when she sees the house. Is that her first time witnessing the result of the fire? Guess we'll just have to patiently wait as the rest of the season unfolds.
9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting CrossFit
After hitting my one-year CrossFitversary in July, I've had so any people asking me about CrossFit. It has been an amazing journey so far, and I wish I'd known these nine things before I started.
It's as Awesome as People Say It Is
When I signed up for one month of CrossFit, it was actually to see how stupid it was. I mean, I loved working out, but I thought CrossFit was only for the insanely fitness-obsessed - who in their right mind would want to flip tires and subject themselves to burpees by choice? But once I started doing these intense workouts, I realized that pushing myself that hard felt more amazing than anything I'd ever done - even better than getting medals for half marathons!
Aside from getting stronger physically, what has fueled my addiction is the newfound inner strength and confidence I've experienced. This is the first time I'm not focused on what my body looks like, but instead on what it can do. I love that every day is a new workout; every day is an opportunity to get stronger than I was yesterday. I have so many goals that inspire me - I never had that with running.
The Community Is Where It's At
I had never worked out in a gym setting before, or with guys, so I was pretty anxious about it. For some reason, I felt like everyone would know what they were doing and they'd make fun of me because I didn't. It was the exact opposite! All the veteran CrossFitters took me under their wings, gave me tips, helped me out when I looked confused, and cheered me on. I was quickly welcomed into what I lovingly refer to as my CrossFit family. There is something about suffering through grueling workouts with other people that helps you form a special bond built from hard work, sweat, and determination. I'll say that there are some strong-ass women in my class, and they totally inspire me to push myself immensely harder than I would working out alone.
You Won't Get Yelled At
I was worried the coaches would scream at me, but they don't! They're all so supportive and genuinely helpful. They want you to get better, to push yourself, and to be "the best version of you," as my coach Dani Horan always says. At least once every class, I get feedback from the coaches about how to perfect my form or encouragements to move to heavier dumbbells.
You Don't Have to Be Athletic or Fit to Start
I wanted to try CrossFit three years ago, but felt like I needed time to get in shape first. Duh, it's like saying, "I need to be flexible in order to do yoga." You seriously need no prior fitness or weightlifting background. The On-Ramp course they require beforehand will teach you all the basics you need to perform each exercise correctly and effectively. So don't stress if you don't know how to do a box jump, kettlebell swing, or wall ball (or have never even heard of them!). And all that CrossFit lingo like WOD, AMRAP, and EMOTM will become a second language.
You Won't Get Instantly Ripped
This was one of the surprising things that happened that was extremely disappointing. After working out five times a week for six months, I assumed I'd be super lean and ripped. My before-and-after photos proved that was not the case.
While doing high-intensity workouts and lifting heavy are the key to weight loss and sculpting muscles, one workout a day isn't the magic pill if you eat like crap or eat too much. I found that I needed to dial in my diet more, and once I implemented intermittent fasting after eight months of CrossFit and cut down on refined carbs and sugar, I started to see results.
No, You Don't have to Go Paleo
As a vegan, I was expecting people at the gym to bombard me with pro-Paleo conversations. Not only did the Paleo diet never really come up in the year I was there, but no one really talked much about diet at all. One guy found out I was vegan and was impressed I was as strong as I was. So yeah, that was pretty awesome.
It's Easier and Harder Than I Thought, and I Never Threw Up
A typical class is 60 minutes long, so I was expecting to be pushing myself past my breaking point for that full hour. The structure of the workouts was actually way easier than I thought. The first half of the class, we work on a strength piece, typically an Olympic weightlifting exercise with a barbell such as back squats or snatches. Then the second half of the workout we do a seven- to 12-minute high-intensity workout.
Although the workouts were shorter than the typical hour-long runs I was used to, they were effing harder. Pushing yourself as hard as you possibly can for even five minutes leaves you with aching muscles, and you're so out of breath you may be close to puking (I never did though!). And some of these exercises are beyond challenging - some mentally, like when we did a 100-burpees workout, and some physically, like when I did the Murph workout.
The difficulty of CrossFit is actually the best part. You'll never change unless you do something new, something different, and you really push yourself past your comfort zone. When I'm left huffing and puffing on the floor after a crazy-intense, exhausting workout, I feel the most alive, the most free, the most happy.
It's Easy to Prevent Injuries If You Just Do This
I hurt my back in the third month doing squats and was worried people were right about CrossFit causing injuries. But I realized it was completely my fault - I was trying to keep up with the 60-year-old woman next to me! At that moment, like yoga taught me, I worked hard to leave my ego at the door. I listen to my body and do what I'm capable of, competing with myself, not anyone else. I haven't had an injury since!
I'm Actually Excited to Get Up at 4:45 a.m. to Work Out
People think I'm absolutely nuts for getting up so godd*mn early. But if something is important to you, you make time for it, amiright? Before my family wakes up and before work starts is the only time I have to fit in a regular workout routine, so I do it. But it's actually not horrible at all. For all the reasons mentioned above, my alarm goes off and I'm instantly pumped to do something for me that makes me feel so badass and energized before 7 a.m.! It sets the tone for my entire day.
Final Thoughts
Not trying out CrossFit because you think it looks crazy or too hard or you think it's like a cult is really a lame excuse. You can't make judgments or decisions about something until you try it. The millions of people obsessed with CrossFit are obsessed for a reason, so find out why!
22 Cozy Slow-Cooker Casseroles That Make Life Easy
It's always slow-cooker season, and these cozy casserole recipes are here to rescue dinnertime. You'll be glad you won't have to bother with the oven when you've got lasagna, enchiladas, and more casseroles cooking low and slow on your countertop. Let these 22 slow-cooker casserole recipes inspire your home-cooking plans when you don't feel like making too much of an effort in the kitchen.
Refresh Your Playlist With the 100 Ultimate Cardio Tunes
There's nothing better than a new playlist for a fierce cardio session. The snappy beats inspire - especially up huge hills or in the last five minutes of a workout. If you can't get your heart pumping without quality music, then check out our ultimate workout playlist that includes a whopping 100 songs. Take a look at the first 10 tracks below, and then be sure to subscribe to the playlist to enjoy the rest!
- "Call on Me" - Eric Prydz
- "Burn" - Ellie Goulding
- "The Rockafeller Skank" - Fatboy Slim
- "I Don't Like It, I Love It" - Flo Rida and Robin Thicke
- "On to the Next One" - Jay Z
- "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House" - LCD Soundsystem
- "Cheers (Drink to That)" - Rihanna
- "Dark Horse" - Katy Perry
- "Don't Be So Hard on Yourself" - Jess Glynne
- "Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)" - C+C Music Factory
And remember: you will need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to this playlist.
Live Your Most Fabulous Life With The Fitness Marshall's "Swish Swish" Dance Cardio
The Fitness Marshall is throwin' down some serious sass in the latest dance cardio video, choreographed to Katy Perry's "Swish Swish." According to "Coach Caleb," this is "tennis practice," for reasons we'll let you find out for yourself.
This fabulously fun dance will have you sweating within seconds. Get ready for "sassy snaps" and "tennis arms" . . . and, of course, a lot of laughs.
A Personal Trainer Wants You to Know This About Her "Flat" Belly
Madalin Giorgetta is a certified personal trainer who felt compelled to post these side-by-side photos for two important reasons. One has to do with how her belly looks. For all the women who ask Maddy if she has a flat stomach all the time, she shares, "No, no I don't 🙈 My stomach is flat for about 10% of the day," and she mostly looks like the photo on the left.
Belly bloat wasn't the only reason for this Instagram post. Maddy wanted to address a more serious topic: social media and body image. She said that a woman recently commented on one of her Instagram photos, saying she was going to unfollow Maddy because she made her feel bad about her body.
You'd think Maddy would have been upset or offended, but she felt "it was not malicious or mean, it was just honest." She went on to say, "If I ever made anyone feel bad about their body, I want them to unfollow me, because I only follow women who make me feel good ❤️."
Maddy told POPSUGAR, "I love following women on Instagram who have a similar body to my own. Long lean legs and big boobs will never be attainable for me, so I like to follow women who look similar to me and who project wicked self-confidence. I think, if they can be sexy and look like that, why can't I?" She said it's important to surround yourself with men and women who inspire, motivate, and lift you up, and "help you to accept the body that you were born with."
With that said, it may be time to take a closer look at your Instagram feed to make sure all the accounts you follow are supporting and encouraging your goals, not making you feel insecure or bad about them.
2018 Movie Trailers You Have to See
2018 is already bringing with it a buzzy slate of films. Now that Fall is upon us, the new year's movie trailers are beginning to roll in. From Fifty Shades Freed to A Wrinkle in Time and Black Panther, there appears to be a movie for everyone (James Corden is even voicing a modernized Peter Rabbit to delight your kiddos). Sadly, some studios are set on making fans wait for a glimpse of the blockbusters awaiting them in their future - we're looking at you, Marvel - but others are already offering up the goods. And trust us, some of these movies look really good.
Watching the trailers, you'll notice a few themes are already beginning to emerge. The best one is that women are about to rule the box office. Natalie Portman, Alicia Vikander, and Taraji P. Henson are just a few of the actors headlining movies about ladies kicking butt next year. If the first batch of 2018 movie trailers is any indication of what's to come, you should plan on spending a whole lot of time at your local theater in the coming months.
8 Totally Underrated Netflix Original Movies
In just a few short years, Netflix has created a strong foundation of original programming. The site produces comedy specials, animated series, documentaries, and more. While the television shows are definitely the more popular content, the original movies shouldn't be overlooked. Spanning multiple genres and featuring star-studded casts, there's a film for everyone. Take a look ahead and check out some of our favorite underrated Netflix original movies!
Get Major Booty Gains and Toned Arms With This Dumbbell Workout
While lifting heavy definitely builds your booty and tones your upper body, don't underestimate the power of the dumbbell. Jade Jenny, CrossFit coach and owner of Champlain Valley CrossFit, told POPSUGAR, "Heavy low volume and light high volume elicit two very different effects." So even though you love lifting a barbell, your muscles will also benefit from doing higher reps with moderate to low weight.
This six-move workout involves multitasking exercises that focus on the butt and legs, but also work the upper body simultaneously. Since some moves use just one dumbbell, have two sets on hand to adjust the amount of weight per exercise. Push yourself to use weights that take you out of your comfort zone a little - that's where the magic happens!
Directions: Set the timer for six minutes. Do each move for 40 seconds, and then take a 20-second rest before moving onto the next one.
The Workout
- Dumbbell thrusters
- Side lunge to curtsy squat (20 seconds per side)
- Deadlift to front row
- Dumbbell alternating forward lunges
- Sumo squats with dumbbells
- Single leg deadlift with row (20 seconds per side)
Descriptions for each move are ahead. For a longer workout, repeat this six-minute circuit two to four times.
I Want to Show the World That Beauty Truly Is Inclusive
When I started in the makeup industry, I was a single mom, working to provide for my daughter. Being Latina with a young daughter carried an extra layer of pressure. I wanted to show her she could be and do anything, no matter where she came from.
As a makeup artist, I worked my way up the ranks and made a name for myself in the film and television industry by working with actors, actresses, and musicians of all races and backgrounds. For me, makeup was always about inclusion - looking your best while staying true to what makes you unique - but I always strived to be a better role model and to provide a better life for my family. Nothing could stand in my way, and I knew I needed to do something other than live on set doing makeup.
Beautyblender was born out of necessity. It filled a very important need both on set and in my personal life. It would give me the ability to do my job quicker and with more precision, but it would also give me an outlet to earn extra income to help my family better their lives.
Over the years, Beautyblender has amassed countless accolades that I am so grateful for, and I've been lucky enough to be recognized within my industry for my work, but very rarely am I recognized for my background.
Last year I was featured in Latina magazine alongside other Latina beauty business owners who I immensely respect. One thing stood out above the rest: most of these women were Latina movie stars who have culturally been defined that way. They were able to tap into their core fan base and bring them to the beauty industry. I started from nothing and made a name for myself without much help or guidance, and certainly without a fan base.
Suddenly, I was being looked up to as a role model not just because I was a business owner, but because I was Latina. I started being approached by Latina women who told me how proud they were that they could relate to a Latina who came from nothing and made a name for herself while staying true to her values.
Today, when you walk into a Sephora and past a Beautyblender gondola, the beautiful girl smiling with her Beautyblender is my daughter, Erica. This young Latina woman is the face of my brand and is proudly showing the world that beauty truly is inclusive.
8 Out-of-the-Box DIY Halloween Costumes For Your Kiddo (or You!)
While not every mama considers herself a Pinterest mom, there are a lot of simple DIY projects out there that take a small amount of effort but end up being really special - in this case, we're talking Halloween costumes. Though costumes aren't too expensive these days, sometimes you just can't find what your kiddo is looking for. That, or you just need an excuse to get some of those crafty juices flowing!
We've rounded up eight DIY Halloween costumes that we think are a little bit out of the box and not too crazy to put together on your own, should the mood take you this year.
Hot Damn, Netflix Has an AMAZING Selection of Horror Movies Right Now
Listen, we don't all have time to refresh Netflix every day and see what new movies have popped up. Now that there's a chill in the air and Halloween is on the horizon, we're sure all you horror fans are crawling out from under your blankets and looking for some solid scares. Luckily for you, the current horror slate on Netflix is actually incredible. It's chock-full of some iconic classics, some recent hits like Hush and It Follows, and many more. Saddle up and get excited, we're sure things will only get scarier when October comes.
These 10 Tips Will Make the Going to the Gym Easier
As we all strive to live healthier, getting fit is often a top priority. Whether you're heading back to the gym after a long hiatus or are new to the fitness scene, here are a handful of tips for making things easier. Hopefully they will help you maintain your fitness enthusiasm for months to come.
9 Reasons the iHeart Radio Music Festival Is the Place to Be Every Year
Going to a music festival has always been on my list of things to do, but I was always unsure if it was really my scene. This year, I dipped my toe into the music festival pool and went to the iHeart Radio Music Festival in Las Vegas. Admittedly, I was initially interested simply because Harry Styles and Niall Horan were playing, but the lineup aside from them was so stacked that I couldn't possibly miss out.
After a successful festival weekend, where I survived all three portions (Friday night, Saturday day, and Saturday night), I am so pleased by my choice of this festival being the first. With iHeart Radio being the main player in what you hear on your radios day in and day out, it's no surprise that it puts on an amazing show from beginning to end. The whole thing is done in T-Mobile Arena, so it feels like a concert or award show, especially since you can watch online or on TV. All of the artists, spanning a variety of genres, put on amazing sets, and I have complete faith that each one of them walked out of the festival with new fans who showed up to see someone else.
If you don't know if festivals are for you, take my advice and check out iHeart Radio's festival next year when it rolls around again. It's a great intro to festivals and is one of the best shows you'll ever see.
Can We Handle Cher's Broadway Musical? I Really Don't Think We're Strong Enough, No
Cher's life is finally getting the stage adaptation it so deserves. Following earlier reports that the iconic multihyphenate would be inspiring a Broadway musical, additional details have finally been released. Titled The Cher Show, the musical will include everything from her childhood to her impressive career. In a press statement, Cher said, "My life as a musical on Broadway. It seems crazy, exciting, and bizarre. But that's probably how my life seems to most people." Cher would be correct in that assumption.
Directing the musical will be Jason Moore, who previously directed Avenue Q and the stage adaptation of Steel Magnolias. Fun fact: the first film Moore ever directed was Pitch Perfect! Though the cast has yet to be determined, the musical is set to premiere first in Chicago on June 12, 2018, before arriving at Broadway's Neil Simon Theatre in Fall 2018.
Don't Look at These Horror Movie GIFs With the Lights Off
While some people might frantically scroll through hundreds of Halloween costume ideas this season, dressing up is not for everyone. What about the horror fans?! We've already gone over intense movies you can see in theaters and horror movies you can stream on Netflix. If you're looking for more fun, though, we've assembled a massive amount of horror GIFs, just for you. Beware - the further you scroll, the creepier it gets.
19 Will & Grace Halloween Costume Ideas That Will Have You Reaching For the Vodka
We all know that very few shows (if any) could ever touch the perfection that is Will & Grace. Not only did the show introduce us to four beloved characters - Will Truman, Grace Adler, Karen Walker, and Jack McFarland - but it also blessed us with hilarious one-liners that you really couldn't get anywhere else on TV at the time. In honor of the show's highly anticipated revival, there's no better time to start thinking about a Will & Grace-inspired Halloween costume.
Luckily, each character has a signature look (Grace = red hair, Karen = vodka, Jack = sweater vests and show business, Will = nice suits), so getting the basics down is no biggie, but the real fun comes when you channel some of the show's most memorable moments. And if people aren't sure what you are at first, you can have a hell of a good time explaining it to them before looking them up and down and saying, "Now honey, what's this? What's happening here?" Grab that bottle of vodka and keep scrolling for some fun Will & Grace costume ideas!
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