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.
vendredi 6 octobre 2017
The 1-Step Hack That Makes an Ikea Cabinet Unrecognizable
Interior designer Victoria Solomon of Victoria Elizabeth Design had a mission: to add a media cabinet to her small NYC apartment that would add extra storage while hiding the ugly wires under her TV. In her dreams, she envisioned a 140-inch built-in-looking piece of furniture that could hold its own on the long 180-inch wall - but in reality, nothing like this existed. So what did the clever designer do? She turned to Ikea and hacked her way to the expensive-looking custom console of her dreams!
Victoria realized that three Ikea Besta shelf units, when lined up, totaled about 140 inches. So, she purchased three Besta ($100) shelf units with high-gloss white doors and gave them an undeniably glamorous (and ridiculously simple) makeover by adding agate pulls ($49 per pair).
Want to re-create the look at home? Read on for Victoria's expert tips!
15 Chest Exercises Every Woman Should Know How to Do
Create strength, get better posture, and even give yourself a little "oomph" up top: these 15 chest exercises for women are simple yet very challenging. You'll be sore in all the right places, and you don't even need a gym to give yourself a great workout.
Tried and Tested: The Best Laundry Detergent For Your Fitness Gear
When I work out, I sweat - a lot - and this happens at just about every workout you can think of. It's not unusual for me to walk out of a Pilates class looking like I just completed 60 minutes of Spin. And sadly, my sweat does not smell like roses. It's gross, but it's my reality.
While regular detergent might work on a pair of jeans, this does not hold true to my soaked-in-sweat workout gear. Before discovering detergent that actually got the funk out of my sports bras, capris, and tanks, it wasn't unusual for me to do an entire load of my favorite fitness items, just to find offensive odors still lingering once everything was dry. After playing around with plenty of DIY solutions and testing every detergent I could get my hands on, I've found three solid choices that work. Unlike most detergents, they don't leave a weird residue behind, won't harm the technical properties of good workout gear, and most importantly, eliminate that funk a good session at the gym is sure to leave behind.
5 Unexpected Ways Boxing Changed My Body
For the most part, I've always been pretty active. High school in China was intense, so when the national college exam was ahead of me, it became the best excuse not to do anything . . . except to eat and sit. That was when things went downhill: I gained 40 pounds in a year.
After graduation, I told my mother that I had decided to get my old body back. My plan included hours of cardio and cutting half of my carbs. By the end of the Summer, I lost 50 pounds. But throughout those years of being active, I still considered myself as skinny-fat. No matter how much exercise I did, I still had fat around my lower belly. Thinking that I would carry that chunk of fat for the rest of my life, I was hopeless . . . until I got into boxing.
A jab, a cross, and a duck . . . oh, boy - your shirt will be soaked, your arms and legs will burn, and you'll be red with all that blood pumping. The goal isn't to look cute while you're boxing; it's to feel good when you're done. Boxing has brought nothing but positivity into my life. After only a month of boxing, I felt like a new person, confident and happy for all of these reasons.
The Perfect Cocktail For Your Zodiac Sign
Ever feel like there's that one cocktail that just speaks to you? It just might be your perfect zodiac match. And, hey, even if you don't read your horoscope every day, it doesn't hurt to find a new go-to cocktail recipe for every occasion. We've tapped cocktail expert Kat Odell, author of the recently published cookbook Day Drinking: 50 Cocktails For a Mellow Buzz ($11), for her advice on all things cocktail-related astrology. Read on to discover which cocktail you should stir up based on your zodiac sign, and learn why it's the best match, according to Kat herself. And, yes, as the name of her book implies, you have permission to drink it any time of day!
McDonald's New Coconut Pie Is the Best Dessert We Never Knew Existed!
McDonald's is no stranger to releasing some of the best desserts we've ever laid eyes on, but its newest coconut pie just might take the cake. The coconut-flavored pies, which are only sold in Singapore as part of the McDonald's National Day menu, reportedly have nata de coco bits inside of each bite. One Instagram user who was lucky enough to taste the hot cakes gave them a thumbs up and even noted that they went back for seconds.
That would also explain why others have complained about the coconut pastry selling out so quickly. Here's to hoping McDonald's coconut pies make their way over to the States soon so we can conduct our own personal taste test. Until then, feast your eyes on the crave-worthy photos of the coconut pie we all deserve ahead.
You'll Never Waste Another Can of Pumpkin Again With This Hack
You just made a PSL (pumpkin spice latte) protein smoothie that used up half a cup of canned pumpkin. Awesome. What do you do with the rest of the can? Throw it in the fridge to use later, right? Which most likely means you'll forget about it, it'll go bad, and there's another partially used can of pumpkin going to waste.
Try this easy freezer hack and your leftover canned pumpkin will live on to do great things! Just scoop the leftover pumpkin into an ice cube tray and pop it in the freezer - two ice cubes equals about one-quarter cup. When you need pumpkin puree, grab the number of cubes you need and pop them in the microwave to thaw.
You'll not only save your pumpkin from sadly going bad in the fridge, but now you'll always have pumpkin on hand to inspire these healthy pumpkin recipes:
- Pumpkin protein smoothie: 1/2 cup
- Slow-cooker steel-cut oatmeal: 1 cup
- Chocolate chip pumpkin protein bars: 1 cup
- Pumpkin chia pudding: 1 cup
- Pumpkin avocado muffins: 1 cup
- Pumpkin pie avocado pudding: 1/2 cup
- Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies: 1/2 cup
- Pumpkin chocolate chip protein balls: 7 oz.
- Oatmeal pumpkin spice bread: 1 can (15 ounces)
Julia Roberts Re-Creates All of Her Best Movie Scenes in Fewer Than 10 Minutes
Julia Roberts has had some iconic roles over the years, and she reenacted almost every one of them when she stopped by The Late Late Show on Wednesday. Yes, we're talking everything from Pretty Woman to her upcoming film, Wonder, with Jacob Tremblay. Aside from reminding us just how heartbreaking Stepmother is, she also threw in a singing number as she paid homage to her hit film, My Best Friend's Wedding, which turned 20 this year. If you need us, we'll just be rewatching all of Julie Roberts's films for the foreseeable future . . .
Law & Order: Arnel Salvatierra's Connection to the Menendez Brothers
Edie Falco as Leslie Abramson
If you've been watching Law & Order True Crime: The Menendez Brothers you may have heard a lesser known true crime mentioned in conjunction with the brothers' brutal murder of their parents. That case centered around Arnel Salvatierra.
But who is he?
In 1986, Salvatierra was a 17-year-old living in California with his parents, Oscar and Ligaya, and his siblings. On Feb. 19, 1986, Salvatierra shot his father three times in the face while he was sleeping in his bedroom. Both the murder and Salvatierra's alibi were carefully planned. Oscar worked for the San Francisco-based Philippine News, and his son sent a death threat in the mail in hopes that people would believe his death was politically motivated.
While there are obvious surface connections between the two cases, what binds Salvatierra to the Menendez brothers is Leslie Abramson. The lawyer, who is played by Edie Falco in the NBC drama, represented all three of the boys. Her representation of Salvatierra may have even made her the perfect choice for the Menendez brothers given the similarities between their situation and Salvatierra's. The outcome of the 1986 case certainly had to make Abramson seem like a smart choice.
The real Leslie Abramson in 2007
Abramson was successful in getting Salvatierra a lesser sentence. After his mother, Ligaya, testified on her son's behalf that Oscar was abusive toward her and the children, a jury found him guilty of voluntary manslaughter, while acquitting him of first-degree murder. According to The Los Angeles Times, Ligaya testified, "No one could object to Oscar. That was the rule of the house. Nobody even argued with him. 'If I say it's black, it's black, even if it's white,' he used to say. That was the rule."
Despite Salvatierra admitting that the murder was premeditated, the jury believed there was enough evidence to support Abramson's argument that the young man had been abused by his father, and witnessed his father abuse his mother and siblings for years. As part of his probation, Salvatierra agreed to undergo psychiatric counseling. Unlike the Menendez brothers, his case has largely faded from memory, and it seems that Salvatierra went on to live a quiet life - at the very least, he has stayed out of the news since receiving his probation sentence in 1989.
Perhaps the Salvatierra case didn't capture the country's fascination in the same way as the Menendez case did because Abramson was able to prove to the jury that her client's home life was so painful that he was driven to extreme measures. The Menendez case is far more mysterious. Even a lawyer as dedicated as Abramson couldn't convince a jury that the brothers killed their parents due to abuse. While Salvatierra's story is fairly straightforward, the Menendez brothers' case remains one of the most puzzling and shocking murders of the 20th century.
Dive Under the Sea With These 18 Ursula Makeup Ideas
Don't be a poor unfortunate soul this Halloween! Instead, channel Disney's most infamous underwater villain - Ursula. From the purple face to the white hair to the blue eye shadow, this is one costume that everyone will instantly recognize the second you walk into the party. Opt for a look that's pretty and glam, or go for the traditionally evil and grotesque. There's an entire Ursula spectrum represented in this roundup!
Here's Your First Peek at Fall's New TV Shows!
This is a hugely exciting time for TV addicts: shows have been canceled and renewed left and right, and networks are unveiling their plans for the Fall. Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, and The CW have already made some big announcements about the new shows they've greenlit for the 2017 to 2018 season, and we can't wait to sink our teeth into them. Lucy Hale, Adam Scott, Emily VanCamp, and more stars are returning to primetime! See what shows you'll be obsessed with come Fall.
The Ultimate Arm, Abs, and Butt Bodyweight Workout
Not every workout has to be complicated to be effective. The most basic of moves can offer the biggest burn, as long as you push yourself and keep moving. Which is why CrossFit is so addictive - it's simple, but it works!
This workout only involves three moves, but you push hard for five minutes straight without any rest until the five minutes are up. CrossFit coach and competitor Dani Horan of Champlain Valley CrossFit says the only way to get stronger is to push yourself past your comfort zone. So just when you feel like giving up, remember it's only five minutes long! A five-minute workout doesn't seem tough, you say? Give this a try and I promise your muscles will be burning in no time.
The Workout: An AMRAP workout means you complete as many rounds as possible in a certain amount of time. In this workout, you'll complete three five-minute AMRAPs with a one-minute rest in between them. During each AMRAP, move through all three exercises with no rest until the five minutes are up. Set the timer for 17 minutes, blast your favorite heart-pumping tunes, and have fun!
Round 1: 5-minute AMRAP
- 10 triceps push-ups
- 10 diamond sit-ups
- 10 jump squats
1-minute rest
Round 2: 5-minute AMRAP
- 10 triceps push-ups
- 10 diamond sit-ups
- 10 jump squats
1-minute rest
Round 3: 5-minute AMRAP
- 10 triceps push-ups
- 10 diamond sit-ups
- 10 jump squats
32 Vegan Lunches You Can Take to Work
Whether you follow the "vegan before 6 p.m." routine, you're taking a Beyoncé-like vegan challenge, or you're animal-free through and through, it seems like more and more of us have tried a vegan diet. While going vegan may take a bit more thought and effort than an unrestricted diet, with a little preplanning - like checking ingredients in store-bought breads and stocking up on vegan pantry essentials - you can still enjoy delicious, exciting meals no matter what time of day. To start your workweek, we've found 32 tasty and creative vegan lunches that are perfect for brown-bagging to work. Click through for the recipes!
How I Turned My Ikea Couch Into a $10,000 Designer Sofa
I don't believe you grow out of Ikea past the age of 25. I love the Swedish brand's minimalist aesthetic. And since I like to mix things up, the price point works for a design commitment-phobe like me. Despite my Ikea love, after three years, my Karlstad sofa started to look a bit sad. Since the low-profile sofa fit perfectly in my open living room, I decided to give it a designer-couch makeover instead of replacing it.
This Raleigh Sectional from Design Within Reach (pictured above) served as my inspiration. The walnut frame matched the midcentury vibe I strive for, and the light fabric color would add to the airy look in my bright living space. That sofa retails for as much as $10,000. I knew I could DIY the look for less. Read on for how I did it.
30 of the Best Whole Foods Products You Can Order on Amazon Right Now
Sure, the initial news of Amazon purchasing Whole Foods upset me, but Amazon has really impressed me with the changes it's made so far, including instating significant price drops that have already gone into effect in stores, not to mention setting up an online store on Amazon.com. While the Whole Foods items available online are limited to some pantry and freezer goods from WF's generic 365 brand (i.e., not the complete line), I was still able to find many of my favorite staples, snacks, and meal starters. I also appreciate that Amazon includes the ingredient list for each of the products (unlike Instacart), which makes for a more seamless shopping experience. I imagine Amazon will continue to roll out more products in the weeks following, but for now, here's what I'm loving.
Weightlifting, MyFitnessPal, and a Great Coach: Chelsea's Key to Weight Loss Success
Twenty-four-year-old Chelsea Martin of Colorado Springs, CO, had dreams of getting in figure-competitor shape, but "life got in the way," and she fell off the wagon.
Chelsea: Before
Fortunately, she had the drive to pick herself back up and equip herself with the necessary tools to get strong and follow her dreams. Her secrets to success? Weightlifting, MyFitnessPal for macro tracking, and a fantastic coach at Gold's Gym. Chelsea treated finding the perfect gym like finding the perfect college, and she found the right fit with a personal trainer who she meshed with immediately. Here's more on Chelsea's amazing story of hard work and determination, with incredibly simple tips you can apply to your own healthy journey.
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Chelsea Martin: I have always been intrigued by fitness and the human body - the limits it can both withstand and break through. My fascination with exercise began in high school. I was never the skinniest or most athletic (although Lord knows I tried!). I would watch figure competitions on TV or on the internet and wonder what it must be like to look like those women on stage. Not only did I envy their physical beauty, but the confidence that these women portrayed. It was a delicate finesse between total badass and radiant beauty.
Self-confidence is something I feel everyone struggles with at some point or another, and I had been struggling for years. I was investing my time in the perceptions of others and their approval of my actions. When I took a job across country, where I had no family or friends, I realized that I could be anyone I wanted to be. I got to choose how I wanted to start my new life, and that's when I put my focus on what my heart desired for myself. Being a figure competitor was always a dream, but I decided I was going to make it a reality. I wanted to be someone for girls to look up to. I wanted people to see me and see that same strong, confident beauty that I had so badly wanted for so many years.
I hate to say that "life happened," but essentially that's what it came down to. Going through college, I was so wrapped up in school, work, family, and trying to balance a social life that I let exercise and diet fall off the grid. I aimlessly fueled my body with whatever I could find. I also sought food for comfort; I'm very much a stress eater. Working 12-hour night shifts, going through nursing school, and many, many late nights with very few hours of sleep certainly didn't help that.
PS: What drew you to Gold's Gym, specifically?
CM: Picking a gym is like picking a college. A lot of people will tell you "it just felt right" or "it just feels like home." Initially, I thought to myself, "Where can I go that will provide me the greatest opportunity at being successful in my journey to competing?" There are many commercial gyms near my neighborhood, but Gold's was the only gym that made me FEEL like I was in the right place. As I surveyed all the different barbell and dumbbell options, cable machines, cardio equipment, and other amenities, I was impressed.
However, it wasn't WHAT Gold's Gym offered, it was WHO . . . from the front-desk workers to my coach to the other members working out every day, bettering themselves. Gold's offers an environment that makes me want to come back every day so I can share my journey with others and they can continue to motivate me with theirs. Gold's has honestly become my family out here, and going to work out is the best part of my day because I get to spend time with people who genuinely invest in helping others better themselves and reach goals that may have seemed unattainable.
"Lifting weights consistently and being mindful of my diet by tracking macros has been the most effective for my body."
Before Gold's, I feel like I had tried just about everything! I have tried DVDs, YouTube exercise videos, different diet fads, detoxes and cleanses, diet pills, hours of cardio . . . you name it. Lifting weights consistently and being mindful of my diet by tracking macros has been the most effective for my body. Everyone's body reacts differently to different methods, but this has been the longest-lasting and most rewarding. I have energy, and it has given me a healthier relationship with nutrition and how I am fueling my body.
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
CM: Weightlifting, hands down. Dumbbells, barbells . . . get me to a rack, and I'm one happy girl.
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
CM: I usually train my big muscle groups (back, shoulders, and legs) twice a week. I will sometimes supplement those muscle groups with more targeted accessory muscles. For example, since I lift shoulders twice a week, one day may be shoulders and chest, and the other day may be shoulders and arms. I will typically do cardio three to four times a week, either fasted in the morning or post-workout to keep my metabolism revved after I leave the gym. I try to mix it up between HIIT and steady-state to help keep my workouts fresh.
Chelsea: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
CM: When it comes to weights, I like to vary the volume and intensity. For example, one of my leg days during the week may focus more on heavier weight with less reps, and then my second day will focus on a higher volume of reps with lighter weight to help burn that muscle that has already been fatigued earlier in the week. I also don't just lift. I like to add in resistance bands, plyometric exercises, and various bodyweight exercises to help keep my muscles confused. Each of these methods helps target different muscle fibers, again keeping my body confused and helping to burn fat.
PS: How much weight have you lost?
CM: Since I started exercising regularly (October 2016 to June 2017), I've lost 26 pounds.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
CM: When people I looked up to in the gym approached me and told me that I was motivation for them. Talk about a totally surreal feeling!
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
CM: I don't like to rely on the scale to measure my weight loss. I take a lot of progress pictures. Although it feels awkward, it is super validating to look back after a month, or even a week or two, and watch how your body is changing and adapting to your lifestyle choices. I also feel it is the healthiest way to track progress because you see YOU, not a number. I love when people guess my weight now, because nine times out of 10, they are way under.
PS: Do you count calories? What's the range of calories you eat per day?
CM: I don't count calories, but I do count macros. This has helped me identify what my body responds to the best as a fuel source and has taught me to be extremely mindful of what is in the food that I'm putting into my body.
"Taking progress pictures is the healthiest way to track progress because you see YOU, not a number."
I like to use the MyFitnessPal app on my iPhone. It's totally free, and it's super easy to use. It even has restaurant menus programmed so I can plan my meals ahead of time if I know where my friends and I are going for dinner. It was kind of tedious at first to track everything, but it helps give you an idea of where you're starting at and how you can manipulate your total carbs and fats and proteins for the day to make sure the food you are putting in your body is both delicious and beneficial for your fitness journey.
Chelsea: Before and After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
CM: Oikos Triple Zero yogurt, Quest or Oh Yeah! ONE protein bars, Kodiak Cakes (protein flapjacks), salted-caramel rice cakes with honey, peanut butter with apples, SmartPop! popcorn, and pickles.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
CM: MyFitnessPal app. Love it!! I seriously use it every time I must go out with family or friends to dinner. It is a lifeline for staying on track with my fitness journey.
PS: What role did Gold's Gym play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
CM: Gold's played a HUGE part in where I'm at today. Without Gold's, I would have never been connected with my amazing coach, Max, who has been my compass through this crazy fitness journey, helping me navigate macros and workouts. He's also been a huge support system, both in and out of the gym. I can honestly say that without Max's help and genuine passion to help me crush this seemingly impossible fitness goal, I would not have been successful. I would highly recommend personal training and classes at Gold's. The staff are encouraging, upbeat, and real. They invest in you and want to see you succeed. As a client, that makes me want to work harder because I don't want to let them down. It's a healthy motivator.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
CM: The hardest part is starting. Make a goal. Write it down. And when you wake up every morning, remind yourself of that goal and envision it happening. I'm a firm believer that we are magnets: what we put into the universe, we attract to ourselves. Put out positive energy and good vibes; you will get it right back. Be encouraging and motivating to others, and they will encourage and motivate you. Envision your dreams as a reality, and if you work hard enough, they soon will be.
Miley Cyrus Morphs Into Godmother Dolly Parton With This "Islands in the Stream" Cover
Dolly Parton, is that you? While appearing on The Tonight Show on Wednesday, Miley Cyrus morphed into her iconic godmother with a cover of "Islands in the Stream." Cyrus was joined by host Jimmy Fallon for the duet, and both went all the way to ensure their performance was a pitch-perfect re-creation of Parton's 1983 Grammy performance with Kenny Rogers (and by that we mean some incredible '80s-era wigs). It was the perfect follow up to Cyrus's touching tribute to the Las Vegas shooting victims, which she performed with Adam Sandler on Monday.
15 Grayscale Makeup Looks That Require #NoFilter
Don't be fooled - there's no filter effect going on with any of these makeup looks. Instead, they've been painstakingly created using only black, gray, and white makeup to produce the illusion of a black-and-white photograph! Many of these looks naturally hearken back to precolor days via stylized makeup and costumes, and the people wearing them look absolutely nuts when standing next to their technicolor surroundings.
This Theory About What Really Happened to Dumbledore's Sister Will Make Your Head Spin
Image Source: Everett Collection
As one of the Harry Potter series' most important characters, Albus Dumbledore's early life was fraught with tragedy. Over the course of just a handful of years, his sister was attacked, his father was sent to prison, and his mother was killed in an accidental explosion caused by his sister Ariana. And then Ariana died in the crossfire of a duel between Albus, his brother (Aberforth), and Albus's then-best friend, Gellert Grindelwald.
The real truth of the events that transpired is still widely debated, but one question that's never been answered is a pretty major one: who actually killed Ariana Dumbledore?
First, some context on the sad story of Ariana Dumbledore. At just 6 years old, she was brutally attacked by three Muggle boys who spotted her doing magic. The event left her mentally unstable and scared to perform magic. Her emotions turned inward, creating what many fans assume to be an Obscurus, which is the bottled-up, dangerous energy of a child with magical powers (known as an Obscurial) who isn't allowed to practice his or her magic. Obscurus were explored in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and there's justified speculation that Ariana was an Obscurial as a result of her childhood trauma with the Muggles.
If Dumbledore accidentally killed Ariana in the confusion of the duel, the Elder Wand's allegiance would have then shifted to him.
Dumbledore's father, Percival, went after the Muggles who harmed his daughter, earning him a sentence in Azkaban. His mother, Kendra, moved the family to Godric's Hollow and kept Ariana hidden from the wizarding world, due to her uncontrollable magic. One of Ariana's magical explosions resulted in Kendra's death, leaving Dumbledore to take care of his family right after he graduated Hogwarts and was planning to travel the world with his close friend and confidant, Gellert Grindelwald - the man with whom he planned a "new world order" between the wizarding and Muggle worlds.
Albus's brother, Aberforth, felt that Dumbledore was neglecting Ariana as he pursued his ambitious path with Grindelwald, and their disagreement came to a head when all three wizards engaged in a violent argument that left Ariana Dumbledore dead. There's always been the implication that Grindelwald dealt the final magical blow that ended her life, but a new theory argues that much darker sequence of events unfolded, and that Dumbledore was actually to blame. Here's what it says:
Based on the nature of how the Elder Wand is passed from person to person (a wizard must win the wand), the theory argues that Ariana Dumbledore overpowered Grindelwald (who wielded the Elder Wand at the time) to protect Aberforth, thus winning its allegiance for herself. Based on that fact, if Dumbledore accidentally killed Ariana in the confusion of the duel, the Elder Wand's allegiance would have then shifted to him, which would explain why the wand answered to him in the future. More widely accepted theories of the wand's allegiance come from the belief that Dumbledore won it in the famous duel with Grindelwand much later.
"This is why Albus took so long to fight Grindelwald [later when he rose to power as a dark wizard]," the theory claims. "He knew that it would confirm that it was he who had killed Ariana. It did, and he lived with that for the rest of his life."
Live with it he did. Dumbledore is undeniably guilt-ridden for reasons that are never fully explained (think about his reaction to the Drink of Despair in Half-Blood Prince). This theory is also supported by his explanation in the book as to why he put on the cursed ring containing the Resurrection Stone.
"I put it on, and for a second I imagined that I was about to see Ariana, and my mother, and my father, and to tell them how very, very sorry I was . . . ."
Sorry for neglecting his family? Sorry for starting down a dark path with Grindelwald? Or sorry for sending out the curse that ended the life of his own sister? You decide.
Image Source: Warner Bros.
15 Affordable Ideas For Your Halloween Party
For diehard Halloween fans, Oct. 31 can't come quickly enough. With the creative costumes, frightening films, and delicious treats, what's not to love? While throwing a Halloween party is a great way to express your love for this spooky time of year, it can get expensive. But it doesn't have to be! With some DIY decor and cheap bits and pieces, you can easily throw a hair-raisingly good Halloween party!
These Trendy Halloween Bowls Are Causing a Shopping Frenzy
If you're active on Instagram or Pinterest, you've likely seen the white, farmhouse-friendly pottery featuring handwritten font that is popping up on everyone's feed. The artist Rae Dunn is the creator behind the popular housewares, which are sold nationwide. While stores like T.J. Maxx are treasure troves for finding Rae Dunn mugs at affordable prices, there's a certain category of Rae Dunn pottery that is in particularly high demand: Hocus Pocus themed nesting bowls. A simple Google search will unearth a variety of eBay listings that offer the two-bowl set for as high as $341. While it might be harder to find these bowls at a local discount store, you never know. In fact, one Instagram user just shared her lucky T.J. Maxx score on social! Take a peek at the famous nesting bowls and more Rae Dunn goodies we're on the hunt for.
This Goth Halloween Cocktail at Disneyland Comes With an Eyeball Inside
Of all the delightfully spooky treats we've seen from Disneyland this Halloween season - and there are many - the seasonal cocktail from California Adventure's Cove Bar is our favorite for more than just its flavor. First because there's alcohol; a day at a theme park is even better when you can unwind with a drink and watch the World of Color show! But secondly because of the drink's aesthetic: a dark purple hue with a glowing ice cube and a lychee fruit "eyeball" floating inside.
The restaurant menu describes the drink as a $14 vodka and Chambord concoction vaguely named "The Halloween Specialty Cocktail." (It's not the only spooky item on the menu for Halloween, either; Cove Bar also has spicy "Ghost-ly Pepper Nachos" all season.) Park-goers have gone absolutely bonkers over the gorgeously goth drink, describing it as "spooky sweet" with a lychee and maraschino cherry garnish that has the consistency of an eyeball.
Drop a glow cube inside, and the dark drink glows vivid purple while you enjoy it on a crisp Fall night. Sounds like Halloween perfection, no? If the description doesn't convince you that this cocktail should be first on your edible Halloween bucket list, just check out these creepy pictures!
I Did This Once a Month, and It Was the Key to My Weight-Loss Success
I was determined to lose the belly fat I've had since high school, that progressively grew from my addiction to sugar, cheese, and refined carbs (aka Swedish fish and grilled cheese) in college, and then from two pregnancies. Running 30 to 40 miles a week and eating healthy wasn't cutting it - a big change was necessary. My youngest was 3 and a half, so the baby weight had overstayed its welcome big time. I went a little extreme and signed up for CrossFit. After one month of classes five times a week, I saw my body beginning to change and felt so much stronger and more confident, and I was hooked. I decided to give it six months, convinced I'd be completely ripped by then.
But I wasn't. Far from it. My belly fat was still there, I had actually gained a few pounds, my upper body looked thicker, and my sports bras and jeans fit tighter. I was a little embarrassed and very discouraged and seriously considered quitting CrossFit. But taking progress photos every single month kept me motivated. When the first week of the month rolled around, I'd put on the same Lululemon shorts and sports bra and take a selfie of my front, side, and back.
When I'd look at the latest photo, I'd frown a little, not seeing the image I had in my mind of my goal body. But then when I'd look at that photo compared to my starting photo, I could see results! My progression was slow. And some months, it even looked like I was going backward. Lighting, angles, time of day, what I ate the night before, and whether or not I felt bloated all affected how these images looked, so I had to remind myself that.
But seeing these photos and the small changes in my body was the motivation I needed. If I only had the disappointing and increasing scale numbers to go by, I would have felt very defeated. Actually seeing my body change from month to month, regardless of numbers on the scale, was essential to the success of my journey.
If you're frustrated by the numbers on the scale, or you're against weighing yourself completely and want a way to keep track of your progress (and your muscles!), get out the camera. Pick an outfit you'll wear every time, and take the damn photos. You don't have to show anyone. Even if you know you didn't eat great or exercise much that month, take the photos! They'll keep you accountable and inspired to stay on the journey to a healthier, more fit you.
Why the Office Is the Best Place to Kick-Start Your Weight Loss Goals
Having a desk job can make staying fit a struggle, but it can also be the greatest thing ever. Not even kidding! Before you click away to that post about how to wear velvet in Winter (interesting and totally worth your time, but stick around) stay with us. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., is the only time during the week that is structured, right? You lunch at the same time (well, at least you should), grab coffee at the same time, and head to the kitchen for chats at the same time. Therefore, your work days are serving you structure on a pretty little platter. Blaming your office job for making it harder to lose weight is just crazy talk.
We've been talking a lot about structure being a blessing for your healthy living goals for a while now, and for good reason - it's just so simple to get results. Let us show you how you can do it from the comfort of your nine-to-five without making it feel too much like a chore.
jeudi 5 octobre 2017
9 Vintage Halloween Decor Projects You Can Do Today
If your go-to Halloween decorations are beginning to feel more stale than spooky, it might be time to reevaluate your holiday look. Why not give your home a haunted Halloween refresher with charming vintage-inspired decor? We've made it easy by gathering the best vintage Halloween DIYs from around the web – and before you stress about the time and money you'll need to work this Halloween decor magic, take a peek at the slideshow below. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how simple, affordable, and fun most of these projects are.
Ways For Introverts to Get Their Energy Back When Other Humans Suck It Out of Them
I love people, kind of. I enjoy being social, occasionally. But people also really, really stress me out. To the casual observer, I'm probably perceived as somewhat of an extrovert, mainly because I can hold a conversation (never mind how many hundreds of times I go over that conversation in my head afterward), and because I am pretty talkative.
Because of this, it sometimes comes as a surprise to the people around me when I turn down an invitation to an event or even to a quiet cup of coffee when I physically cannot be around them anymore. This is no fault of their own; I'm just a true introvert at heart, and when my mental battery is drained, I can't find the energy to interact with people until I've done something to recharge it again. I love all things Myers & Briggs, and I recently came across a Quora thread with tips from introverts on different ways to "recharge" themselves. If you're a hardcore introvert like me, these tips may really help you figure out ways to make the most of your happiness - both socially and personally. Here's what you can do to get some of your energy back when other humans suck it out of you.
1. Recharge via output.
Whether it be photography, crafting, cooking, knitting, painting, gardening, or even coloring, introverts can benefit greatly by creating something. By testing their own abilities and patience and by having something - big or small - to show for it at the end, we enjoy a sense of accomplishment. "When I actually finish a task that I had set to myself and that was creating backlog, something that I had to do alone . . . I feel recharged," said Quora user Sagorika Sinha. "These are crafts that are actually really simple to make but that take a lot of time that I can spend alone. I have patience. The fact that they turn out pretty (sometimes I have no idea of what the result will be) it feels like a real victory over something."
2. Shop alone.
It may seem counterintuitive to send an introvert out into the wild (aka to a store or the mall), but it's not necessarily people in general introverts need a break from, but interactions with people that require a lot of effort. Sometimes getting in the zone at the grocery store or mall can allow introverts to check things off their list and feel accomplished - but these trips are usually better when done during off-hours and with headphones in.
3. Socialize in a small group.
"It's not always that we need silence to recharge ourselves. Sometimes we do so by socializing with others, and in such cases the group is either two or three people," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "It's mostly trusted friends with whom we can be ourselves and not sit awkwardly, have a good and meaningful discussion. We can even spend hours talking in such a group. But increase the number of people and we are done for. Too many people to listen and talk to, and energy goes down real fast."
4. Take a long drive.
I don't think there's anything that helps me recharge more than a long drive alone. Introverts are able to literally distance themselves from people and feel comfortable in their own controlled environment while experiencing the freedom of mobility that driving (especially down long, open roads) provides.
5. Avoid any contact with people.
Sometimes introverts really, truly need to be by themselves. "Imagine it like this," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "The more we have to speak and/or hear others speaking, the more tired we become. The more tired we get, the more silent we become (which was a lot to begin with). When there is no contact with anyone, and this sometimes include SMS/web chats too, we feel relaxed. It's like our being is at harmony again. The world feels right, the time feels right, everything feels right, and we stay in that bliss until we feel rejuvenated enough to interact with the world again." Couldn't have put it better myself.
6. Read or write.
There is no better escape for an introvert than through a good book. We are able to get inside our own heads, or better yet, inside another world completely. In these worlds, real or not, introverts can retreat into themselves - a place they are typically the most comfortable - and gain energy from within. Similarly, writing is a way escape and to express our thoughts and feelings in a productive way without having to verbalize anything at all.
7. Enjoy self-entertainment.
Being an introvert is kind of like being your own little one-person party. Which is actually pretty awesome, because we have no problem enjoying ourselves doing countless activities alone. The most important thing to understand about an introvert is that being alone does not equal being lonely.
8. Try single-person exercise.
Take up yoga, Pilates, dance, or any type of activity that is both good for your body and good for your inner introvert. Meditation is not necessarily a workout per se, but it's another way for us to regroup within ourselves and can be just as beneficial health-wise as other single-person exercise.
9. Listen to music.
One of the easiest ways to recharge, even if you are surrounded by people, is by listening to music. It can be done anywhere and it's a way to shut out all of the external factors that tend to stress out introverts. Commuting, shopping, exercising, traveling are all things I simply don't enjoy unless I have my headphones in; introverts can use this time to recharge while giving off a not-so-subtle signal to other people that they want to be left alone. Just hope they take the hint!
10. Clean the house.
To be completely honest, cleaning the house is one of the most effective ways for me to completely recharge myself. There is something so rejuvenating about being alone and having free reign over your home - one of the most cherished spaces for an introvert. I love to turn on music, light some candles, and get completely lost in cleaning the house from top to bottom. It can take hours, but afterward I am not only recharged, but I have a spotless house to show for it. It's a win-win.
11. Be alone with your thoughts.
"Sometimes I am literally just sitting down and taking the weight off my feet while the same thing is metaphorically going on in my brain," said Quora user Michael Peacock. "It might mean taking an hour or longer to take off my shoes and socks at the end of the day because I'm too busy thinking . . . stuff. And then on the other end; when I'm putting my socks on and getting ready to public; I'm rehearsing in my mind the people I will or might see and the kinds of conversations I will be expected to have with them. Sometimes that takes inordinately long, too."
Being alone in this case means potentially even avoiding TV and definitely social media, which can both add to internal clutter that wears us out. Sometimes (well, often, actually) we just need a mental break so that we can come back with a fresh perspective and the energy we need to interact with people again. It's just how we work!
This Mega-Creepy Horror Show Starts Streaming on the Perfect Day: Friday the 13th
If between It and American Horror Story you're still somehow feeling a lack of things to be scared about, then Amazon has your back with its latest original programming venture. Amazon Prime Video has transformed the popular horror podcast Lore into a new anthology series that begins streaming on Friday, Oct. 13 - and that release date definitely isn't a coincidence.
Produced by some of the folks from The Walking Dead and The X-Files, Lore is unique because it focuses on real-life horror stories, particularly frightening folklore. "Lore exposes the darker side of history, exploring the creatures, people, and places of our wildest nightmares," describes the podcast's website . . . and it seems like the show will be even more terrifying. With illustrations, re-enactments, and documentary-style interview footage, the trailer for the anthology series almost gives AHS season one vibes.
"This anthology series brings the podcast to life, uncovering the real-life events that spawned our darkest nightmares," says the show's creators. "Blending dramatic scenes, animation, archive, and narration, Lore reveals how our horror legends - such as vampires, werewolves, and body snatchers - are rooted in truth."
Give the trailer a watch above, and then prepare to have the sh*t scared out of you when the entire first season drops on Oct. 13.
9 Decorating Tips Only People With Anxiety Will Appreciate
Anxiety is a complicated emotion that is not always easy to overcome, and if you have ever struggled with this chronic worry yourself, then you certainly understand just how debilitating it can be. There is nothing worse than experiencing a negative trigger that quickly takes you down the road of uneasiness and fear. And while there are many different forms of treatment for all ranges of anxious behaviors, there are some very simple tweaks you can make right in your own home to ensure any nervous feelings are kept at bay. That's right, making a few easy decorative changes to your living space is one of the best ways to accommodate and soothe your anxiety. Read on for the nine most effective design changes you can implement to achieve a more serene day-to-day experience.
11 Superhero Costumes That Will Get You All the Instagram Likes This Halloween
If Halloween is one of your favorite times of year, then it's time to get excited for the upcoming season. Don't struggle with what you should be this year; instead, let yourself get inspired by some of your favorite movies. You can take on the role of one of your favorite superheros, and you'll be bound to be the hit of the party. We have you covered with a variety of choices, from a sexy Catwoman to a cozy Joker, so shop these top superhero picks and snatch one up before they're all sold out.
Is This Luxurious, Solar-Powered Camper Real Life or a Vacation Dream?!
Would you rather have a road-trip-ready caravan or a cozy-meets-luxurious, solar-powered dwelling? Thanks to sCarabane, a tech-savvy camper, you don't have to chose. It can transition from one to the other in just 30 minutes!
The sCarabane has been years in the works, and it's like nothing we've seen before. On the road it's a typical 26-foot trailer, but it unfolds into a 420-square-foot abode - that's bigger than many starter apartments! It comes complete with a relatively spacious master bedroom, smaller bedroom designed to hold two twin beds, a six-person dining table that can be converted into extra sleeping space, bathroom area complete with washing machine, and the pièce de résistance: a luxurious outdoor deck perfect for relaxing.
And then there's the solar powered features. The SCarabane sits on top of a circular track so it can rotate to get maximum sun exposure throughout the day. A retractable wind turbine generates an impressive amount of power and solar cells, and a solar concentrator provide backup power and hot water, respectively. In other words, it's not only luxurious, it's also super green-savvy.
Curbed reports that there's no scheduled release date as of yet, but when it does it the market, it won't be cheap. Until then, we'll be saving up.
Only People With Nerves of Steel Will Be Able to Watch Every Horror Movie on This List
If your idea of a horror movie is a tense, psychological thriller, then we suggest you stop reading, because we're here to discuss the scariest, goriest, most in-your-face horror movies currently streaming on Netflix. From blood-soaked slashers to horror anthology movies that might scar you forever, we combed through all the scary movies Netflix has to offer to unearth the best and the bloodiest.
So, You May Have Been Pronouncing Reese's Wrong This Entire Time . . .
How do you pronounce Reese's? Do you say "Ree-sis" or "Re-sees"? Well, it turns out that this is truly a hot topic debate, and we're here to settle it for you. While some people swear the proper pronunciation of the beloved chocolately peanut-butter candy is "Re-sees," the truth is it's actually "Ree-sis." Yes, if you're one of those "Team Ree-sees" people, then you've been saying it wrong this entire time.
Spoon University recently dug up an old Reese's commercial to further prove this point. In the clip, the brand is pronounced as "Ree-sis" as well.
This all makes sense if you take into account the history behind the name. Reese's was named after Harry Burnett "H. B." Reese, a businessman who worked for the Hershey Company in the early 1900s. Still intrigued by it all? Discover 7 other fun facts about Reese's that might surprise you.
The Fastest Way to Lose Fat? This 4-Minute, Science-Backed Exercise
Boost your heart health, blast calories, and maximize your weight-loss potential in just four minutes. Seriously! How? With Tabata - the style of high-intensity interval training that is proven to get you fitter faster.
Tabata is not as much a "workout" as it is a method of how to work out. It's 20 seconds of high-intensity work (going as quickly and intensely as you can!), with 10 seconds of rest, repeated eight times for a total of four minutes.
Dr. Izumi Tabata is the man behind the namesake of this style of HIIT training, originally known as "Tabata Protocol," though he credits Olympic speed skating coach Irisawa Koichi for the technique. He's pioneered and spearheaded studies that have proven the efficacy of Tabata training for fat loss and cardiovascular improvement (in other words, getting slimmer and more fit).
The moves are up to you - you can make it as simple as two moves (like squats and push-ups, for instance), or you can mix it up with different moves targeting different muscle groups.
Getting your heart rate into that peak zone is ideal for shedding fat, and HIIT is proven to be the best way to lose weight quickly - in a healthy way. It incinerates calories and blasts belly fat by conditioning your body to use fat stores as fuel.
Try a 20-minute Tabata super-set video, a 30-minute session, or a 45-minute Tabata workout if you want to work on your endurance. The format of 20 seconds on, 10 seconds off will continue - just with more repetitions - as you build up the time of your workout. Going phone-free at the gym? Print out a PDF to take with you and get to your Tabata super set!
The Biggest Misconception About Keto, Debunked By a Doctor
The keto diet is still hotly contested, but clinical nutritionist Dr. Josh Axe, DNM, DC, CNC chalks a lot of that up to one giant misconception: "it's not just butter and bacon."
Though it is a very high fat diet (up to 80 percent of your calories come from fat!), Dr. Axe noted that most people don't understand how to eat healthy with that macronutrient distribution (and thus end up defaulting to butter and bacon).
While grass-fed butter is still a good fat source, he also recommends seeking healthy fats from natural sources like avocados and nuts. And while salad isn't the first thing to come to mind when you think "keto diet," Dr. Axe suggests "loading up on vegetables and water," while eating "some meat." He especially noted that vegetables, herbs, and greens are of the utmost importance, and are often neglected on the diet.
He told POPSUGAR that he emphasizes the importance of alkaline foods while in ketosis. "I have my clients on the ketogenic diet eat things like bone broth, mixes of veggie juice powder or organic super green powder, veggies without sugar, celery, cucumber, spinach, turmeric . . . lots of cilantro and parsley. These are all really, really alkaline." This is to balance the acidity and the pH of your body while in ketosis so you can sustain the diet for a few months in a healthy way.
Amber Lost 140 Pounds in 1 Year With a Simple Tool
Sometimes something very simple is all you need to make a big change. In Amber's case, that simple something was an app that helped her lose 140 pounds in just one year.
Amber: Before
The mother of three hit a point where she decided "enough is enough" and made a positive change for her health; her decision to do so brought her from a size 24 to a four! With the lost pounds and gained health, she found a new sense of confidence, and with that, Amber has felt inspired to pursue her dreams and a new career. Check out how she got to this amazing place by making simple changes (with a lot of hard work, of course) using an app called Lose It!
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Amber Anderson: My journey started when I saw a video of myself on social media and was embarrassed at how big I looked. My children were also making comments about how big I was (they were only 4 and 6 at the time). In the next week, I went shopping in a store that carried up to a size 24. When I tried on the size 24 pants, they didn't fit. I knew I had to make a change. I was fed up with myself and how overweight I let myself get.
I have been overweight since I was in the third grade. It just gradually got worse over the years. I would eat what I wanted and was not very active. As a young adult, I lost a little of the weight, but it always seemed to add back on and add more each time.
PS: What drew you to Lose It! specifically?
AA: I chose Lose It! because I was looking for an app that could keep me accountable as well as one that would keep track for me. I have tried many different diet fads, weight-loss pills, and exercise programs; none of them ever kept the weight off. Lose It! worked for me because it has helped to not only lose the weight, but to maintain the weight loss.
"I change my workouts up each month so that my body doesn't become accustomed and hit plateaus."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
AA: I love working out first thing in the morning. I love running now and doing light strength training.
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
AA: Fitness was a huge part of my weight-loss plan and is something I continue to do daily. For the first 10 months of my weight-loss journey I attended a Spin class four days a week for 45 minutes every morning at 5 a.m. It started my day off on the right note and I felt better each day I went. Since losing the weight, I have continued incorporating fitness into my daily routine. I now include about 30 minutes of cardio each day as well as 30 minutes of strength training three days a week.
Amber: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
AA: I change my workouts up each month. I try and change it so that my body doesn't become accustomed and hit plateaus.
PS: How much weight have you lost?
AA: I have lost 140 pounds in just one year.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
AA: Some nonscale victories have been to wear bathing suits without skirt bottoms for myself, being able to ride roller coasters at theme parks with my kids, and also fitting comfortably in airplane seats now. Weight loss has dramatically changed every aspect of my life. I feel so much better, I'm happier, more confident, and a lot healthier. I am more confident now and because of that, applied for my dream job as a behavioral therapist, and have been doing that now for 10 months now. I am more confident in myself and can now wear clothes that I always wanted to.
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
AA: I track my weight loss through the Lose It! app as well as a journal I started.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
AA: My eating habits changed drastically. I eat completely different than before. I no longer crave fried and sweet foods. I eat a wider variety of fruits and vegetables now. I look for foods that I know will fuel my body and mind rather than ones that will only satisfy immediate cravings but will have terrible side effects. I am trying new foods weekly and learning that I love foods I had never tried before. Before, I was eating breads, potatoes, and pasta daily. Now my meals consist of a lot of lean meats, veggies, and fruits.
PS: Do you count calories? What's the range of calories you eat per day?
AA: The Lose It! app sets a goal of calories for you to stay under each day depending on your current weight and goal weight. As you lose the weight, your daily calorie goal changes as well.
Amber: Before and After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
AA: Apples, celery, chicken, turkey, carrots, and cabbage.
"Weight loss has dramatically changed every aspect of my life. I feel so much better, I'm happier, more confident, and a lot healthier."
PS: What role did Lose It! play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
AA: Lose It! played a huge role in my weight loss. It helped me to see what exactly I was eating and how healthy/unhealthy foods were for me. It also helped me to see how my weight-loss journey was going daily.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
AA: Start small and slow. Take it one day at a time. Never give up on yourself.
An Open Letter to the Latecomer in My Cardio Dance Class
Maybe it's because the class was crowded. Cardio dance aerobics definitely provides a certain kind of high that we fitness junkies crave. Maybe it's because I had started to think of the group of gals by the door as my dance posse. We had, after all, for at least seven songs, navigated dancing big while respecting each other's space. We had figured out our group dynamics and spatial relations. Then you came through the door and into our space. You walked in 35 minutes late to an hour-long dance class; you seriously disrupted the vibe. I am not even sure why or how the people running the front desk let you into this high-energy dance class when it was more than half over.
I think we've established that I found your late entrance annoying, but it's dangerous for you, too. You were not warmed up at all and we were doing intense, full-body dance moves - lunging to the floor to slap it on beat, jumping, turning, and, in general, moving fast. The speed and range of motion build as these classes progress, and you joined at the height of difficulty, putting yourself at risk of injury. To protect yourself, you can "mark" the moves and perform them smaller, but this is jarring to all the people around you - you are no longer moving with the pack, which increases the chance of collision. Ouch.
Growing up, I took all kinds of dance classes and all the studios had rules about entering a class late, since being tardy is considered rude to the teacher and to the rest of the class. And by late I mean by only five to 10 minutes (not 35 minutes). The protocol works like this: You stand at the door to the studio and make eye contact with the instructor between songs or exercises. If you get the nod from the teacher, you may enter, but if not - no dice. I was taught this by many ballet mistresses (yes, you can tell by the title they were more uptight), by tap teachers, by jazz instructors, by college professors of contemporary dance. You really need to be on time.
So, Latecomer, if you find yourself in this situation again, my advice is to skip the class. There are so many ways to get your groove on and your heart pumping. Go for a walk. Rock out at home to your favorite music. See if the next class the studio offers is something you want to try. Set your alarm earlier next time. I know it sucks to miss a workout that you were looking forward to, but sometimes it happens. Just roll with it.
Thank you for listening,
The One in the Back, by the Door
47 Frida Kahlo Tattoos That'll Finally Convince You to Get Some Ink
Getting inked is no small thing. You want to make sure that whatever design you choose to forever etch on your body is worth it. Well, we can't think of a better icon to honor with a tattoo (or two) than Mexican feminist Frida Kahlo.
The internet obviously agrees, with thousands of images popping up under the #FridaKahloTattoo hashtag. We combed through that long list of tattoos inspired by Frida and compiled a list that is sure to inspire your own. Scroll ahead to find our picks.
A Fitness Editor Shares Her Week of Meals and Workouts
Since becoming a fitness writer, I can't tell you how many questions I get about my routine, my food, my favorite products . . . actually, I can tell you. I get one to four questions a day from anyone from family to complete strangers. Most recently, a co-worker asked me what my typical week looks like, so I decided to lay it all out.
This is a sample week, spliced together from two different weeks because of the holiday weekend and travel throwing off my usual routine, but this is actually a very accurate (and painfully honest) account of what my days look like on any given week. Some days my nutrition is on point, other days I'm in a downward spiral of processed carbs. I'm a human, OK!
The through line with my food is that I make a lot of cleaner choices, so I don't actually have an issue if I decide to eat half a pint of ice cream or go out to dinner with friends. I also make healthy foods that I LOVE, and I don't force myself to eat things I don't enjoy. I eat often, so I'm never super hungry (that's when I make my worst decisions - food and otherwise), and try to plan ahead as much as possible.
Sunday
Exercise: This past Sunday was a rest day for me in terms of workouts, but I still was a bit active - I headed up to the Muir Woods National Monument (one of my favorite places!) for a brisk early morning trail walk (not sure if you can call it a hike) for a couple miles before heading back to the city.
Note: I've been following the Tone It Up nutrition plan's eight-week challenge, so on Sundays I meal prep to set up for a healthy week. I use this time to make protein muffins for the week, chop and prep veggies, cook quinoa, make chia pudding, etc. I also typically have an apple cider vinegar metabolism drink every morning, but since it's so redundant, I left it out of the food diary.
Food:
M1: Rebbl's Maca Mocha (I'm OBSESSED, and you need to try it). There's no coffee in it, just maca!
M2: Small fresh-squeezed OJ from Whole Foods while grocery shopping and a lemon protein muffin that I ate fresh from the oven while meal prepping.
M3: Hefty salad and an Icelandic yogurt (skyr - another obsession of mine).
M4: Cauliflower-acaí smoothie (TBH, it was pretty flavorless . . . I need to work on my recipe).
M5: Quinoa bowl with chicken, wilted kale and garlic, roasted sweet potatoes, edamame, and a little truffle salt - holy yumminess.
Monday
Exercise: Mondays and Tuesdays vary for me, but it's usually a studio class of some kind, like Flywheel, SoulCycle, Core40, or yoga. On this particular Monday, I did a 60-minute C2 CorePower Yoga, with my friend Janine teaching. It was sweaty, challenging, yet powerfully relaxing and restorative. Lots of balance work and single-leg poses!
Food:
M1: Iced almond milk latte from Starbucks with a whole lot of cinnamon.
M2: Protein muffin - this week I made lemon chia seed (in lieu of poppy) from the TIU plan and added a little almond extract (great decision, TBH). They're probably my favorite protein muffins to date!
M3: Leftovers from that miraculous quinoa bowl the night before.
M4: Chia pudding with cacao nibs and strawberries.
M5: TIU "tahini tray dinner" with chickpeas, cauliflower, broccoli, and roasted sweet potatoes. I prep these in bags with olive oil, tahini, and minced garlic so I can throw it all on a cookie sheet, bake it, and call it a night. For "dessert," I had GT's guava goddess kombucha.
Tuesday
Exercise: I love the slow, low-impact, muscle-shaking burn from Lagree-method Megaformer classes, and there's a Core40 on my train line to work! I do the Core40 Ramped class, which is Megaformer with an extra gravity challenge thanks to the carriage getting a little incline.
Food:
M1: Two coconut Perfect Fit protein pancakes with coconut flakes and a little organic maple syrup.
M2: Protein muffin.
M3: Greek chicken quinoa salad (I made it myself! Kalamata olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, artichoke hearts, chicken, quinoa, greens, and a little olive oil and salt with a half a lemon squeezed in.).
M4: Icelandic yogurt.
M5: Tahini tray dinner and a little bit of Halo Top's birthday cake flavor ice cream for dessert.
Wednesday
Exercise: Wednesday was a rest day! I don't always use this as my rest day, but that's just how it turned out. Sometimes I go for a run, sometimes I try a new studio or something like boxing, but I gave my body a break on this day.
Food:
M1: Another iced almond milk latte (I'm a creature of habit) and a protein muffin.
M2: Protein smoothie (I went to Barry's Bootcamp across the street, solely for the Fuel Bar).
M3: Greek chicken quinoa salad.
M4: Icelandic yogurt (word to the wise, Smári's mango flavor is like mango lassi in a cup).
M5: Crispy tofu nuggets and sautéed zucchini. One of my weeknight staples (so easy to make and so cheap!).
Thursday
Exercise: Thursday is my morning for personal training with my PT, Liz. We do a different workout every week, using weights, kettlebells, battle ropes, sleds, and all sorts of cool gym things I had never used before working with her.
Food:
M1: Two scrambled eggs (I get pasture-raised eggs from Vital Farms; they're expensive but worth it for a variety of reasons I won't get into here) and another iced almond milk latte.
M2: Protein muffin.
M3: I work dangerously close to Sweetgreen, and I'm obsessed with the Bay Bowl. My trainer told me to trade kale for romaine since romaine is a little easier to digest. I also do no raisins, add a double serving of strawberries, and get extra sprouted almonds.
M4: Chia pudding with cacao nibs.
M5: Made dinner with friends: pistachio-crusted salmon, coconut rice (we made it with brown rice), and a pineapple mango pico I made with some jicama and jalapeño. For dessert, I made a superfood hot cocoa with coconut milk (from a can), lots of cacao powder, manuka honey, and Moon Juice's Brain Dust.
Friday
Exercise: I don't always double up (nor would I recommend it, unless you're in a conditioning program!), but Friday was a double day for me. I love starting Friday with an early a.m. SoulCycle class with Luigi (he's hilarious and inspiring, and he always starts my day off on a good foot). So, 45 minutes of intense cycling was workout one.
I was also shooting my Instagram Story and Snapchat show for POPSUGAR, You Glow Girl, on Friday, testing all-white activewear (spoiler: it's awesome), so I went to Barry's Bootcamp for a power lunch session (50 minutes of weights and running). Needless to say, I went to bed at 9 p.m. and slept very, very well that night.
Food:
M1: Luigi and I went to Project Juice in the Castro after SoulCycle for a "unicorn parfait" - coconut probiotic yogurt with blue majik layered under a dragon fruit smoothie bowl blend, topped with granola, fruit, and coconut flakes (pictured at the top of this post). YUM. Also a cashew milk coffee.
M2: Protein muffin.
M3: I didn't get to eat lunch right away because 1) Barry's and 2) was making the Instagram and Snapchat show. I grabbed a protein shake from Barry's immediately after class to refuel and keep my body nourished. I get the Skinny B*** (unfortunate name, excellent shake) with strawberries instead of blueberries. It's also made with vegan protein and BCAAs for recovery!
M4: OK, this is another food I don't really talk about, but I love celery with cream cheese! Is that weird? IDK. I grew up with it. So yeah, I ate celery with cream cheese.
M5: I stopped at Lemonade on my way home and got seared ahi with an edamame salad and soba noodles with kimchi vegetables. AND a strawberry rhubarb lemonade, because why not.
Saturday
Exercise: My weekends have been a little up in the air lately from travel, but this past Saturday I went to Level 2/3 Hot Yoga at Love Story Yoga in San Francisco. It's a shorter class than the Sunday one (70 minutes instead of 90), and while challenging, it's still gentle and low-impact, and it helps me wind down.
Food:
M1: Iced tea and sweet coconut toast from Samovar before heading into yoga.
M2: N/A
M3: Bowl of pork, rice, coconut slaw, and beans from Cuban restaurant Media Noche . . . and also a little guava cheesecake ice cream dipped in dark chocolate ("Mi Abuela Favorita").
M4: Literally so many cherry tomatoes and a little ranch for dipping.
M5: I'm not proud of this, but I 100 percent walked to a Walgreens to get Ben & Jerry's Half Baked and Top Ramen. NOW YOU KNOW MY SECRETS.
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!
60 DIY Halloween Costume Ideas Tailored to Teens
Being a teenager in and of itself can be spooky, but here are 60 alternatives to channel this Halloween. No need to scour the internet or pay a visit to any kitschy, pop-up costume outlet, because we've got you covered. Each of these costumes is awesome in its own right, paying homage to the best of current pop culture and childhood nostalgia - not to mention they're all fairly easy and cheap to reproduce! Take a look and let these costume ideas convince you that you're not too old to dress up.
All the Gritty Facts For Season 8 of The Walking Dead
Before the seventh season of The Walking Dead was even halfway over, AMC renewed the show for season eight. This means we've got plenty of apocalyptic zombie horror to look forward to, all the way through mid-2018. So if you were feeling bored by the recent season's single-storyline pacing or find yourself looking far, far ahead to a time when Glenn's tragic, graphic death is a distant memory, season eight is the place to go. Let's go over what we know so far.
The Season Will Kick Off With the Show's 100th Episode
Typically, it's a huge deal when any TV show hits this triple-digit benchmark. It must be especially true for TWD, seeing as pretty much every season has been only 16 episodes in length. Considering this accomplishment is also a season premiere, chances are the show could pull out all the stops in a way they might never have before.
The Official Trailer Is Absolutely Wild
During this year's epic Comic-Con weekend down in San Diego, AMC dropped an epic new trailer that had a truly incredible ending. We had two questions: what's with "old Rick," and who's in that storage container?!
Negan Will Play a Big Part
During an interview with Howard Stern, actor and Negan portrayer Jeffrey Dean Morgan confirmed that Negan will still be a big deal, even after season seven concludes. "I know I will be on board for season eight," Morgan said. "We've finished [season seven] a week ago. The next two, I'm really big in. I'm f*cking heavy in those." It makes sense, now that war is officially on. Especially if you know what happens to Negan in the comic books.
We Can Venture a Guess at What Might Happen
Based on what happens in the comics, there's a very strong possibility that season eight will entirely consist of the huge war against the Saviors. If that wraps up in the first half of the season, however, there are more dangers lurking on the horizon. In the comic books, the next evil group is called the Whisperers. And they're just as terrible as Negan and the Saviors, if not more so.
Whatever Happens Will Be "Intense"
During Talking Dead, AMC's aftershow, showrunner Scott Gimple said, "The first four episodes will melt people's minds and break their televisions."
There Is a Definite Premiere Date
At Comic-Con, AMC confirmed the locked-in premiere date for the season. The Walking Dead returns on Oct. 22.
9 Things You'll Notice About the Prettiest Halloween Porches
If you're a big fan of Halloween, you know it's never too early to start planning your spooky decor. And the best way to make a statement for the holiday is with a fantastic, festive porch. Whether you opt for some Fall-inspired decor or go all out with skeletons and the works, check out some of these great porch decorating ideas to inspire your own eerie creation!
4 Expert Tips to Help You Conquer a 10K With Confidence
Running may seem hard in the beginning, but as soon as you master your breathing technique and build your endurance, you can reap the amazing physical and mental benefits of pounding the pavement.
According to Adidas's runners' captain, James Heptonstall, Summer is the best time to start increasing your miles, so read on for his expert tips that'll help you hit your best running rhythm in pursuit of conquering a 10k.
Join a Running Club
If you aren't a self-motivator, it can be easy to stagnate with the pace and distances of your run, but finding a running buddy or joining a running club is a great way to boost morale and motivation. Running with people of similar abilities can make you more comfortable when it comes to pushing yourself.
Eat Accordingly
Fueling your body the right way is important for every runner. When increasing your distance, load up on slow-releasing, complex carbs like brown rice, brown bread, and porridge for a sustained energy release. Immediately postrun, replenish your energy stores with fat-releasing carbs like while pasta, white bread, or jacket potato.
Try Cross-Training
Taking time away from running to incorporate different types of training into your fitness is important not just for giving your joints a rest, but also because it allows you to focus on strengthening your core and legs, which in turn help you improve your running ability.
Mix It Up
Running the same route or trail every day may be convenient, but it can lead to complacency. Break away from what you're used to and start switching your run up by adding things like sprints, intervals, and hill runs that will challenge you and help build your endurance.
The Beauty of Ariana Grande's Workout Routine Is That Anyone Can Do It
For Ariana Grande, most of her exercise comes from performing in her shows or rehearsing for her tours. But the star also works with trainer Harley Pasternak to develop a strong fitness routine. Harley, who has trained celebrities such as Megan Fox and Lady Gaga, recently sat down at a Reebok event to speak to us about his sessions with Ariana, and he revealed some key tips we think anyone could use. If you want to know what Ariana does to stay in shape and apply them to your own life, read on.
1. Take 12,000 Steps a Day
According to Ariana, Harley is "obsessed with steps," and when I spoke to him myself, this was definitely a health tip he repeatedly emphasized everyone should do. "I give [Ariana] a step goal every day, whether she be dancing to get that step goal or watching her favorite movies while walking down the treadmill really slowly," he said. "Twelve-thousand steps a day and she hits it. I can't imagine her being still."
Ariana admitted while at first she was skeptical about the steps rule, she has since embraced it. "I feel better when I'm moving around a lot. I can do a really hard workout and sit around all day, but still not feel as good as if I was dancing or getting my steps backstage in the arena. I love the steps rule."
2. Develop Mindful Habits Before Bedtime
"With traveling, Ariana's in all these different time zones, so I give her the right practices to make sure she sets herself up for success, like making sure there is no caffeine before she goes to bed or she's not reading stressful emails before she goes to bed."
3. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
"Ariana eats incredibly well and she always had a healthy diet. I think what I've gotten her to do now is to create a more balanced diet and feel OK about indulging and celebrating sometimes. She has widened the ingredients she puts into her diet. She makes a lot of my smoothies, so for the body-reset smoothies she'll make the white smoothie, red smoothie, and green smoothie."
As for Ariana's workouts? Contrary to most people's assumptions that celebrities go through intense exercises every day, Harley says sometimes he'll only give Ariana one exercise to do. "I'll say do skater lunges today for six sets of 20 repetitions and that's it. Sometimes it's a combination of two different exercises back and forth and sometimes, it's nothing. It's a marathon, not a sprint with her."
6 Spooky Throw Blankets That Will Keep You Cozy This Halloween
If you just can't get enough of cozy throw blankets, we found another reason to buy more: Halloween. One of the best parts about the holiday are all the fun decorations that get you in the spirit for looming ghosts and goblins. Make your decorations even better by picking up some essentials that you can cuddle in. Whether you like pumpkins or spider webs, there are some funny blankets that will make you feel even more excited about your favorite holiday. Check out some of these Halloween-inspired throw blankets that are perfect for your next girls' night in.
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.
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