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
This Zombie Princess Jasmine Costume Is Both Gross and Gorgeous
You know how that Aladdin song goes: "Arabian nights, beneath Arabian moons. A fool off his guard could fall and fall hard," . . . and in our Halloween-obsessed world, get attacked by zombies! Well, maybe that's not the exact lyrics, but this Halloween, we've taken Princess Jasmine to the dark side. The undead side, as a matter of fact. This royal would fit in just as well on the set of The Walking Dead as she does in the Arabian Desert.
With the help of resident makeup artist Faina Rudshteyn at the Make Up For Ever boutique in NYC, we made Jasmine over. In the process, we snagged essential 3D makeup tips for any gory Halloween costume (like use cotton balls to make your wounds gush). But we still maintained that classic cat eye Jasmine is known for. She may be a zombie, but she's still a princess!
Dad's Crushing Warning to Parents After Sepsis Killed His 3-Year-Old
In early April 2014, about a week after his son was born, Peter Howarth says his 3-year-old daughter began suffering from what he and his now ex-wife believed was a cold; she was feeling a bit lethargic and had a fever, but just a few days later, sepsis would take her life. Now, the father from Manchester is seeking to educate other parents about sepsis - life-threatening blood poisoning that can result as a complication after an infection - and urge them to ask doctors about it if their child falls ill like Pippa did.
After a few days of being sick at home, Pippa's breathing didn't seem right, so she was taken to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with pneumonia after fluid was found in her lungs; however, the doctors never diagnosed the toddler with sepsis until it was too late. "What people don't know about sepsis is the speed and how quickly it changes a life," Peter told the HuffPost. "Pippa went in [to the hospital] at 7 p.m., and she died by 4 a.m. That's how quickly it takes a life."
While doctors treated Pippa's pneumonia, the child was dying as her body attacked itself. Peter recalls the night Pippa died clearly, as well as the fact that he didn't know what sepsis even was until after his daughter passed away, holding his hand.
I was there at 10 p.m. and she was wired up to drips, but still demanding pink drinks and a story. She was bossing me around, she was perky. It got to 3 a.m. and I thought she wasn't right. She was talking, but it was nonsense and stopped making sense. I got the nurse to come in. They checked on her and there was no mention of sepsis, then off they went. I sat with her half an hour after this point in the room, just holding her hand. I was holding her hand when she stopped breathing. That was it.
I was hustled out, the crash teams came in. She died before my wife got there. After about 20 minutes I was allowed back in the room, and that's when my life changed. Sepsis - I didn't hear that word until she had died. We didn't get a chance to fight, she was gone before we could try. We didn't have a chance, she didn't have a chance. It was a flick of a switch and she was gone.
In honor of World Sepsis Day on Sept. 13, Peter is sharing Pippa's story in the hopes that no other parent has to lose their child to sepsis. Because Pippa's decline was so fast, Peter wants parents to know the symptoms of the poisoning - shortness of breath, fever, confusion, low blood pressure, fast heartbeat - and to ask doctors in the moment whether it could be affecting their child.
"You can't always spot the symptoms. I don't know if we ever could have stopped it, unless we said: 'Could it be sepsis?'" Peter said, explaining that the speed in which sepsis kills is what people need to know about and is why the condition needs to be further researched. "It may not have changed the outcome with us. We might have been unlucky, but maybe - if someone had asked - just maybe, we'd still have her. If by doing any type of awareness raising I can help one person ask the question and save one life, that's one family that doesn't have to go through the hell we've had to go through."
3 Things You Need to Be Focusing on If You Want to Up Your Fitness Game
We've all been there: out of breath, over it, and ready to throw in our gym towels and never look back. Oftentimes this happens because we're not seeing progress with our workouts, at least not the kind we were expecting. What gives? To get to the bottom of what's stalling our progress, we turned to personal trainer Austin Lopez, CSCS.
More often than not, it's likely that the "overload principle" is being ignored, Austin told POPSUGAR. A basic tenet in training, the overload principle is easy to grasp and makes total sense. Put simply, we need to consistently be working harder to see change. "You have to push yourself more because the body is good at adapting to whatever you throw at it," Austin said. If you want to see changes, you need to change it up - and often. But you don't need to go into it blindly. In fact, there's a ton of evidence on exactly where you should devote your efforts.
1. Time and Frequency
You don't necessarily have to give up the classes you love or your sacred time on the treadmill; just do more of what you're already doing. This can happen in a lot of ways, said Austin. For starters, add an extra class or gym session onto your schedule. If that's not possible, try adding time to your existing workouts. Instead of a 45-minute TRX class, look for a 60-minute class; even challenging yourself to an extra 10 minutes on the treadmill can lead to results.
2. Speed
When it comes to cardio-based workouts like running, cycling, or time on the elliptical, challenge yourself to increase your overall pace. If you usually run an 11-minute mile, start to shave that down to a 10-minute mile by slowly increasing the speed of your runs. You can also work on speed by incorporating interval training into your cardio and strength workouts by alternating between a period of maxing out your efforts with a period of recovery. Think HIIT, Tabata, and tempo runs.
This type of increased intensity will also aid in weight loss, said Austin. "From an exercise perspective, interval training is the most effective way to get lean," he said. "The more intense the workout, the more the body has to recover, which translates into more calories over time." This is due to the afterburn effect (excess postexercise oxygen consumption, or EPOC), which helps to increase your metabolism, resulting in hundreds of extra calories to be burned throughout the day.
3. Load
The easiest way to think about load is to equate it with weight. Essentially you're "loading" the body up with more weight and challenging it to work harder. The next time you're in a strength-training class or at the gym, choose a heavier weight than you're used to. You may be surprised that you can actually manage more than you thought possible. If more weight seems daunting, start by doing shorter sets with less reps. "By going heavier, you'll be breaking down muscle at a higher rate, making it stronger than it was before," said Austin.
The Right Way to Incorporate Frequency, Speed, and Load
If you've hit a wall, there's no better time than now to start upping your intensity in one of these areas. While Austin's advice is to go "as intense as you can," he added that this is all relative to the individual. "The more intense you make any workout, the more unsafe it can become," he said. "Ease into it, and find out what's possible for you." While you are tasking yourself with going harder, you still want to make sure your form is on and you aren't feeling lightheaded or dizzy while working out. "Push it little by little," said Austin.
A good way to keep yourself safe is by focusing on only one of these areas at a time (frequency, speed, load). Besides preventing injury, "it's also a great way to measure your success rate because it controls one variable."
18 Sugar Skull Leggings to Wear on Day of the Dead
If you live in leggings and could not imagine wearing anything else to celebrate Day of the Dead with family this year, we're here to tell you your mom won't be mad if you show up to her house in these sugar-skull printed ones. The intricate (and cute) sugar skull designs on these workout pants will have you starring down at your own legs, and every relative at your family's get-together pointing at them and saying "how cute." They are so awesome, you'll probably end up wearing them way past the first days in November - and, the best, they are all under $100.
Why I Ditched My Go-To Black Eyeliner For a $4 Drugstore One
True story: when I was 18, as a fresh-faced youngin' spending her first night in New York City, my friends and I tried to get into a club. I barely wore any makeup, looked all of 12 years old, and smelled like ProActive. Needless to say, I was going to have a hard time getting in. The promoter we were with grabbed my arm, dragged me into an alley, and pulled out a . . . Bobbi Brown Kohl Eyeliner ($27).
"This makes you look older," he said as he smeared it on my waterline. I got into the club, have worn it ever since, and bought a replacement every three months like a good nugget should. Thanks for the memories, Bobbi!
I'm only 22, so for the longest time, looking older was the ultimate goal. But when I got "ma'am"-d while going through TSA a few months ago, I had somewhat of an existential crisis. Maybe my go-to black Kohl, the eyeliner I always thought made me look sophisticated, actually just aged me. I could have cried. (But if I did, my eyeliner probably would have stayed put - again, it's an exceptional product!)
We've all heard of glow-ups, where a person Draco Malfoys out of their awkward phase and emerges a beautiful butterfly. I guess I was in need of a glow-down . . . I wanted to get some of that youthful spontaneity back into my day-to-day makeup.
Luckily, my need for a glow-down came right around the time I had a meeting with reps from CYO, a new Walgreens makeup brand. Perhaps you've seen this brand during one of your recent trips to the drugstore. The products have sleek black packaging and trendy designs, and the first time I saw it on the store shelves, I honestly thought I was at Ulta.
Everything in this line is bright, colorful, and under $10 - so, I assume, it's where the youths would shop. If you take a look at CYO's hot pink dual Lipstick & Liner, shimmering bronze Contour Stick, or two-toned Ombre Lipstick ($6), it looks like the perfect line to wear to an *NSYNC concert in 1998. Consider me sold.
CYO sells a Kohl Gel Eyeliner ($4) in Highflier, which is a disco-perfect electric blue. It has a slight shimmer shine, but I wouldn't call it metallic. The pencil's tip is somewhat chubbier than other applicators, which means it swipes on a dramatic, full line of color (pictured below).
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Benjamin Stone
Whereas dark black eyeliner sometimes accentuates the fact that I only got four hours of sleep last night, this blue one brightens my dark eyes up. I've noticed that people are much better with their eye contact now, because the hue is just so damn captivating.
What's more, this stuff lasts (and lasts, and lasts). If you've been proud of your thick, black eyeliner in the morning only to leave for lunch wondering where it went, you'll appreciate how durable Highflier is. I'm also not the gentlest with my eyeliners, but the tip has stayed sharp, despite my best efforts to pummel it onto my waterline.
Be warned: I get carded every time I wear this liner. A 16-year-old skater boy tried to flirt with me on the subway, à la that iconic restaurant scene in 13 Going On 30. I look a bit like a child.
But that's what makes it so magical. Whenever I see my reflection, whether it be while washing my hands in the bathroom or checking myself out while passing by a store window, I get an instant pop of color that always makes me smile.
There are still days that call for my black kohl liner, and at this point I usually wear my Highflier hue one or two days a week, plus nights I go out. In fact, my past few Saturday nights have included many bar bathroom encounters, where I've made new friends when girls ask me what eyeliner I'm wearing. To be honest, this look is so cool, I can hardly blame them for asking. This eyeliner is a surefire way to look fun as f*ck.
Give Your Garbage Disposal the Deep-Clean It Deserves
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim
Your garbage disposal does the important job of keeping big chunks of waste from getting clogged in your pipes. That means it's a smart idea to keep it nice and clean so it can work properly. Along with refreshing your sink and drain, taking the time to give your disposal a quick clean ensures it's happy for a long time. Follow these steps every six months to keep it grinding.
- Before getting started, it's a smart idea to turn off the fuse connected to the garbage disposal. This way there's no question of anyone (or anything!) getting hurt or damaged. Use a pair of tongs to reach into the disposal to remove any debris that hasn't been ground or is stuck in the blades, and then turn the fuse back on.
- It's important to flush the drain line of the disposal to clear it of any buildup. Plug your sink and fill with two to four inches of water, then turn on the disposal while removing the plug, which pulls all the water through the drain line and thoroughly rinses the garbage disposal.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Lipoff
- To refresh and clean garbage disposal blades, pour one quarter cup of baking soda down the drain along with one to two tablespoons of vinegar. Turn on the water and run the disposal for a 10 count.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Lipoff
- Now give the whole disposal a final freshening by dropping a garbage disposal refresher or some citrus rinds down the drain and run the disposal.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Lipoff
- Finish the cleaning and make things sparkle by following these steps for cleaning your sink. Enjoy the shine!
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Lipoff
Ayesha Curry's Response to Trump Will Remind You to Go High When They Go Low
On Saturday, Sept. 23, Donald Trump withdrew an invite for the Golden State Warriors to visit the White House after winning the 2017 NBA championship finals. Trump, who called the invitation "a great honor," took issue with star player Stephen Curry for "hesitating" on the visit. In fact, Curry had already firmly and openly expressed that he would decline any invite to Trump's White House. The NBA all-star said his decision was based in part on President Trump's troubling rhetoric thus far. "Basically, the things he said and the things he hasn't said at the right times, we won't stand for it," Curry told reporters the night before Trump's tweet.
Following Trump's tweet, the Warriors team released a statement, writing:
"While we intended to meet as a team at the first opportunity we had this morning to collaboratively discuss a potential visit to the White House, we accept that President Trump has made it clear that we are not invited. We believe there is nothing more American than our citizens having the right to express themselves freely on matters important to them. We're disappointed that we did not have an opportunity during this process to share our views or have open dialogue on issues impacting our communities that we felt would be important to raise.
In lieu of a visit to the White House, we have decided that we'll constructively use our trip to the nation's capital in February to celebrate equality, diversity and inclusion - the values that we embrace as an organization."
Ayesha, Stephen Curry's wife, also responded to Trump rescinding the invite. The newest CoverGirl used her platform to divert all of the attention to helping those devastated by the recent natural disasters in Mexico and Puerto Rico. "🙄Okay . . . Donate to earthquake relief here!!!," Curry tweeted followed by another link to help those affected by Hurricane Maria.
🙄Okay… Donate to earthquake relief here!!! https://t.co/HL5cvwbGtQ
- Ayesha Curry (@ayeshacurry) September 23, 2017
Also… https://t.co/gWK3IIXRui
- Ayesha Curry (@ayeshacurry) September 23, 2017
Curry's response was met with applause from many on social media who deemed it to be a class act.
Thank you for your classy approach!
- Wildcat (@AZ_Wcats_fan) September 23, 2017
BRAVO! Done with class Ayesha!
- Donna L Green (@DonnaLGreen1) September 24, 2017
You are a class act Mrs. Curry!
- Kristine Marie (@beehappytoo) September 24, 2017
❤️how you told this man to focus on the country 😂
- Sheila Wilson (@shewil1) September 23, 2017
Thank you and your family for taking high road. I think your family is adorable &proud you are from the Carolinas
- Sarah Roth Daniel (@sarahlr802) September 24, 2017
This Trippy Makeup Tutorial Is So Disorienting, You'll Have to Sit Down
YouTube makeup artist Promise Tamang Phan has been wowing us with her incredible transformations for several years now, and we're excited to see that she's already gotten started on some new trippy tutorials for Halloween.
In case you're not acquainted, Promise is basically the queen of Halloween beauty inspiration. She first caught our eye with her mesmerizing re-creations of Disney princesses, but we continued watching her channels as she progressed to more terrifying videos such as her stitched mouth tutorial.
Last year, she produced a somewhat nauseating "double vision" DIY that entailed her painting shockingly realistic duplicates of her eyes, nose and mouth. Due to the popularity of that video, she's back with another mind-bending tutorial. The concept is similar, but far more trippy.
"I love doing these confusing looks because they are fairly simple to do but the results are mind-blowing," she said. Watch the video and see for yourself - but don't be surprised if you feel like you have to lie down afterwards!
This Is the Wedding That Brought Together 2 of the Most Powerful Royal Families
Queen Sofía and her husband, King Juan Carlos I, ruled over Spain for 39 years, which is why it might shock you to find out their marriage didn't actually start in the country. The royal couple married in Athens on May 14, 1962, but there's a good reason for why the nuptials didn't take place at the cathedral in Madrid, like the wedding of the current king, their son, Felipe VI.
The now queen consort was then known as Princess Sophia Margarita Victoria Frederica of Greece, the oldest daughter of King Paul and Queen Frederica. She met Prince Juan Carlos on a cruise through the Greek Islands in 1954, and she reconnected with him at a wedding just a year before they married. The third cousins (they are both descendants of Queen Victoria of England) might have wanted their wedding to take place in Spain, but in 1962, Juan Carlos and his family were officially in exile in Rome, since the monarchy was dissolved in 1931 during a period of military rule and political instability.
The couple instead married in Athens in three ceremonies: a Catholic one at the Cathedral of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, a Greek Orthodox one at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Annunciation, and a civil union at the Royal Palace in Athens. Sophia, who wed in a stunning lace dress by Jean Dessès, officially gave up her right to the Greek throne by becoming Roman Catholic and adopting the Spanish spelling of her name. The couple soon was allowed to return to Madrid, and they settled at the Zarzuela Palace before Juan Carlos officially became Prince of Spain in 1969 and king after the death of military dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.
Woman Who Encouraged Her Boyfriend to Kill Himself Via Text Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison
BREAKING NEWS: Judge sentences Michelle Carter, woman in suicide texting case, to 2.5 yrs; She'll serve 15 months. https://t.co/zE57snUHPb http://pic.twitter.com/P2Kgq1Topu
- Fox News (@FoxNews) August 3, 2017
Michelle Carter, the 20-year-old who urged her boyfriend to kill himself, was sentenced to two and half a years in Massachusetts prison on Aug. 3. She will only serve 15 months in prison, however, with the rest of her sentencing suspended. Judge Lawrence Moniz, who read out the sentencing, will let Carter stay free while the rest of her appeals settle in the Massachusetts state court system.
Carter was convicted of involuntary manslaughter on June 16 for the death of Conrad Roy III in 2014. According to text messages sent to her friends, then-17-year-old Carter told 18-year-old Roy to "get back in" to his car as it filled with carbon monoxide. Roy, who had suffered with mental health issues in the past, died on July 12, 2014, from carbon monoxide poisoning. His body was found on July 13 in a Kmart parking lot.
Moniz also sentenced Carter to five years probation and ordered her "not to profit in any way from the events of the case," reports BuzzFeed. Before sentencing, Roy's mother, Lynn Roy, told the court the following: "I still cannot come to terms that another person who knew and described how much they loved my son would want to inflict so much pain. He is the most amazing human being and would have had a bright future."
If you or a loved one are in need of any help, the National Suicide Prevention organization has several resources and a 24/7 lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
Woman Who Encouraged Her Boyfriend to Kill Himself Via Text Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison
BREAKING NEWS: Judge sentences Michelle Carter, woman in suicide texting case, to 2.5 yrs; She'll serve 15 months. https://t.co/zE57snUHPb http://pic.twitter.com/P2Kgq1Topu
- Fox News (@FoxNews) August 3, 2017
Michelle Carter, the 20-year-old who urged her boyfriend to kill himself, was sentenced to two and half a years in Massachusetts prison on Aug. 3. She will only serve 15 months in prison, however, with the rest of her sentencing suspended. Judge Lawrence Moniz, who read out the sentencing, will let Carter stay free while the rest of her appeals settle in the Massachusetts state court system.
Carter was convicted of involuntary manslaughter on June 16 for the death of Conrad Roy III in 2014. According to text messages sent to her friends, then-17-year-old Carter told 18-year-old Roy to "get back in" to his car as it filled with carbon monoxide. Roy, who had suffered with mental health issues in the past, died on July 12, 2014, from carbon monoxide poisoning. His body was found on July 13 in a Kmart parking lot.
Moniz also sentenced Carter to five years probation and ordered her "not to profit in any way from the events of the case," reports BuzzFeed. Before sentencing, Roy's mother, Lynn Roy, told the court the following: "I still cannot come to terms that another person who knew and described how much they loved my son would want to inflict so much pain. He is the most amazing human being and would have had a bright future."
If you or a loved one are in need of any help, the National Suicide Prevention organization has several resources and a 24/7 lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
You'll Never Have to Worry About Lost Luggage Again Thanks to This Item Tracker
There's a strong case against checking in your luggage: it can get damaged, it's inconvenient, and worst of all, it can get lost. But if you're a perpetual overpacker or your travels require more than a carry-on, you can't always avoid checking in. It's a definite risk, but there is a solution that may help put your mind at ease, at least in terms of knowing where your bags are at all times. Highly favorited luggage brand Away and item tracker Tile teamed up to create a luggage tag ($30) that every traveler needs.
The 100 percent leather tag features an opening made to fit the Tile Slim, which pairs with your smart phone via Bluetooth. It's basically like Find My iPhone for your things. You can locate your suitcase on the Tile app from any of your devices, which will show you where it's at down to the street and city.
You can also follow it on the app's map like below.
Though it doesn't prevent the airline from losing your luggage, you'll at least have peace of mind and you can help them retrieve it faster knowing exactly where it's at. If your suitcase is beyond the Tile's Bluetooth range, you can also select "Notify When Found" in the app to be automatically notified of its most recent location when any Tile user with a phone or tablet simply passes by your missing item. It's pretty awesome.
I've purchased the smaller Tile Mate for my boyfriend - who's known to lose his keys, phone, and wallet often - before and it's been an absolute lifesaver. You can hook the Tile Mate onto your keychain or stick a Slim onto any of your devices, or, like its name suggests, the Slim is sleek enough to fit in your wallet if you have no travel use for it. Clicking the center of your Tile will also call your phone (even when it's on silent) in the reverse situation. Anything you want to keep your eye on, whether it's a child/drunk friend or a remote, can be tracked!
Warning: These Gory Halloween Eye Makeup Looks Aren't For the Faint-Hearted
For gore-lovers, Halloween inspiration possibilities are endless. You can turn your whole body into an illusion work of art, take on beauty trends and give them a gory twist, or even add creepy critters into your gothic makeup. But if you aren't into the hardcore SFX Halloween get-up, just doing eye makeup can be equally scary.
If you didn't think some good old fake blood and eye shadow could make a superscary eye look, think again. We've found some of the goriest eye makeup looks so freaky, you won't even require a costume. The best part? You don't need to have all the SFX products to participate. One artist says she used Clarins Lip Balm ($26), which we assume she melted to create a blood-like consistency.
Read on to see inspiration of how to make gory eye makeup looks that aren't for the faint-hearted.
This 19-Year-Old's Horror Makeup Creations Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine
Have you thought about your Halloween costume yet? One self-taught named inspiring us to embrace the spooky holiday early on. Saida Mickeviciute is known for creating horrifying looks using makeup and prosthetics. The 19-year-old has drawn many horror depictions on her face, from goblins and ghouls to a creepy doll, all of which she documents on Instagram.
Mickeviciute revealed that her scary hobby started when she was trying to find the perfect look for a Halloween party. Judging from the masterpieces here, it seems that the makeup guru is a wealth of inspiration for All Hallows' Eve. Ahead, see some of her terrifying looks so you can start planning your costume.
They're Here! 13 Brand-New, Editor-Approved Nail Polishes For Fall
Fall is such a fun time for a fresh manicure, and big cosmetics brands have just released their brand-new Autumn hues! We're giving you a look at the hottest lacquers of the season with colors that range from deep, vampy burgundy to sparkly rose gold. And since these picks are just hitting shelves, you'll have attention-getting nails before anybody else. Take a look at these gorgeous shades from OPI, China Glaze, Deborah Lippmann, Butter London, Orly, Sall Hansen, JINsoon, and Tom Ford. Your bank account is about to get a tad emptier. With this many options, you might need to get a mani once a week!
Nicole Guerriero's Candy Killer Halloween Tutorial Is Somehow Sweet and Scary at Once
This year, Halloween makeup is all about the drip factor. Beauty vloggers on YouTube are creating some seriously realistic special-effects tutorials just in time for Oct. 31. If you're still trying to find the perfect one to re-create, look no further than Nicole Guerriero's masterpiece: "Sugarfiend" The Candy Killer.
Artfully crafted using just a handful of products - namely the Make Up For Ever Flash Color Palette ($99), the BH Cosmetics 120 Color Eye Shadow Palette ($30), and fake blood - Nicole's unique idea redefines scary-sweet thanks to the real candy and sprinkles she adhered to her face using lash glue. Genius! Press play above to watch Nicole improvise your new favorite Halloween look (can you say sprinkle brows?), then get inspired by even more creative ideas.
14 Easy Ways to Be Thalia This Halloween
mIf you too admire Mexican superstar Thalia, why not honor her and her legacy by dressing up as her this Halloween? The gorgeous singer and actress has a long career full of iconic moments, including her leading roles in the three Marías (María Mercedes, Marimar, and María la del Barrio), and even has a famous friend or two who allow for a great pair costume. Read ahead for 14 easy DIY ideas that'll turn you into Thalia - at least for a few hours.
The Genius Hack For Transforming Into a Beautiful Mermaid With Makeup
Mermaids - hands down - are predicted to be one of the hottest Halloween costumes for the 2016 season. While we all want to be ethereal sea creatures IRL, on Halloween we have a legit reason to transform ourselves into the modern-day version of Ariel. Get into a sea siren spirit via shimmering scales on your cheekbones, ocean-hued eyed shadow, and a rainbow waves.
In case you aren't quite sure how to recreate this look yourself (even though you've watched countless Instagram and YouTube tutorials already), we've asked for help from MAC Senior Artist Keri Blair to take us through the steps to getting mermaid ready.
Pop Culture Halloween: 42 Costume Ideas For BFFs
You know what's better than going to a Halloween party with your best friend? Dressing up with your best friend as best friends from a movie or a TV show. (Did I just blow your mind?) In preparation for the spooky holiday, we've rounded up some classic pairs from popular films and shows to inspire your pop culture Halloween. Click through and let us know who you and your BFF will be styled as come Oct. 31! If not of these strike you fancy, we have plenty of other ideas.
Here's Why the Price Tag at Orangetheory Fitness Is Worth Every Penny
If you think Orangetheory Fitness (OTF) studios seem to be popping up all over the place these days, you're not mistaken. The bright colors, enthusiastic community, and unique logo are probably enough to make you want to drop in, and you've likely already read a good review that has convinced you to give it a shot. But first things first: how much does OTF cost?
Class pricing varies by region, so it's worth giving your local studio a call to find out the exact cost of a membership or class. Your first class at any OTF is free; after that, the studio's packages start at $59 and can go up to about $200 for an unlimited plan. The average price for a drop-in class for nonmembers is $28, with a few select locations costing slightly higher than this. Each workout is taught by experienced coaches and features upbeat music and the latest equipment, as well as men's and women's locker rooms and showers. Classes can be booked in advance through an online portal.
Most of OTF's classes consist of 60-minute workouts broken into cardio and strength training. Each workout incorporates endurance, speed, and strength elements by using equipment such as treadmills, rowing machines, TRX suspension training, and free weights. According to the Orangetheory website, participants burn 500+ calories per workout.
All OTF workouts involve heart-rate monitors, which helps participants keep their heart rates in a target zone. This zone is said to help stimulate metabolism and increase energy levels, resulting in the "Orange Effect," which can lead to increased energy, toned muscles, and extra calorie burn for "up to 36 hours after the session." While you're wearing the heart-rate monitor, the instructor is able to see if you're hitting the appropriate target heart-rate zones. This heart rate-based training aspect is what truly sets OTF apart from other high-intensity interval workouts. It's worth noting, however, that the heart-rate monitor is an added cost: only OTF heart-rate monitors sync with its system (other monitors such as Fitbit or Apple Watch won't work), so visits will require the rental ($5) or purchase ($69) of your own OTF chest strap.
So if you seek a group studio workout combined with the motivation that comes with an individualized personal training session, OTF offers quite the bang for your buck.
5 Printable Cardio Workouts For People Who Hate to Run
Hate the gym? Can't stand to run? Or maybe your schedule is such that your home also doubles as your fitness haven? If any of these scenarios sound like you, get excited, because we have five solid cardio workouts you can do at home - many with no equipment needed! And gym rats, don't fret. All of these workouts can be printed out and easily taken with you when you need to design a workout plan for those days that you're on the go.
6 Very Important Pictures From Stranger Things Season 2
Season two of Stranger Things isn't hitting Netflix until October, but we already have a handful of pictures. The first trailer premiered during the Super Bowl (talk about making a splash), but the new photos provide even more looks at the cast. Hopper and his flashlight are back, Grace is as paranoid-looking as ever, and Jonathan and Natalie may or may not be running from a monster. Take a look!
Will & Grace: If That Stonewall Joke Flew Over Your Head, Read This
After a well-received premiere episode, Will & Grace continues to show it is still the series we all know and love from a decade ago with episode two, cleverly titled "Who's Your Daddy?" Will and Jack come to grips with being "daddies," aka older men who are interested in younger guys, on the dating scene.
On Will's ill-fated date with a 23-year-old (played by Dear Evan Hansen Tony-winner Ben Platt), the young man dismisses Will's "older guy" drama by saying that he knows "all about Stonehenge," to which Will replies, "Do you mean Stonewall?"
For those of you who were confused at the reference, the Stonewall riots happened in June 1969 when members of the LGBTQ+ community held demonstrations in New York City after the police raided the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village. It was not uncommon for police to raid gay bars then, but at Stonewall, the situation came to a head, leading to protests for weeks. Within a few months, two gay activist organizations had formed and three newspapers were established to promote gay rights. The first gay pride marches then took place on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall raid, which is why a lot of pride events are held in June throughout the world.
In giving his history lesson, Will launches into a pretty epic speech about younger generations not forgetting the people who fought for their rights.
"It's great that you have no shame. I mean, you missed the joy of signing up for football to fool your parents. But you guys can never forget the struggle that came before you, the people that fought and loved and . . . and died so that you could walk down the street in skinny jeans with rights you never even knew you never had. The minute we forget what we went through to get here is the minute it could all be taken away," says Will.
Then, in a callback to an earlier joke, he adds, "And that will be the night the lights go out in Georgia!"
Just as an FYI, if you aren't familiar with Designing Women, Will was referencing a famous monologue by Dixie Carter. Her character, Julia Sugarbaker, was kind of known for them on the CBS sitcom that ran from 1986 to 1993. Unfortunately, Designing Women is not available to stream anywhere - who can we call about that oversight? - but you can at least watch Carter's "the night the lights went out in Georgia" speech below.
If You Want to Lift and Sculpt Your Booty, Do This 10-Move Workout
This booty-shaping workout involves 10 of the best basic yet effective butt-blasting moves. Some involve dumbbells to add resistance, while others are plyometric moves to get your heart rate up. All are designed to build and tone your glutes, so get ready to feel a major booty burn.
What you need: A set of medium-weight dumbbells and a step or bench.
Directions: Do each exercise for 30 seconds for a five-minute workout. For a longer workout, repeat one or two more times.
The Workout
Squat Hop
Deadlift
Dumbbell Sumo Squat
Elbow Plank With Donkey Kick
Lunge Jumps
Goblet Squat
Side Lunge to Curtsy Squat
Step-Ups
Single-Leg Touch
Superman
Detailed instructions for each move follow.
The 20 Best Kitchen Hacks From Chrissy Teigen
Chrissy Teigen knows her sh*t. She came out with her first cookbook, Cravings, last April, but she's been sharing her recipes on her blog, So Delushious, and Instagram for a long time, and not only with laugh-out-loud sassy descriptions but also with expert-level tips. Keep reading to find 20 cooking tips from her Instagram that we can all apply in the kitchen, from perfecting crispy roasted potatoes to making carbonara pasta even better.
The 12 Most Underrated Horror Movies of All Time
As a kid, I always gravitated toward horror comic books and movies - the darker, the better. I'm sure my parents never thought it would be something I would one day base a career on, curating for film festivals and now Shudder! I love finding films and sharing them with others; it's kind of like a spooky "show and tell." There are lots of different flavors and nuances of horror, but here is a wide range of underrated or overlooked films, from comedic ones like Murder Party and Mr. Vampire, to downright terrifying ones like Evil Dead Trap, to sinister and cerebral ones like Pulse (the original, not the lame remake).
This Is Not a Drill: Bath & Body Works Just Dropped All of Its Fall Candle Scents!
Summer . . . what's Summer? When it comes to seasons, there's only one time of year we care about: Fall! Autumn brings with it the best of any season: crisp air, pumpkin spice everything, arguably the two best holidays (Halloween and Thanksgiving), beautiful changing leaves, the cutest clothes, and the excuse to stay inside all day burning candles. Every Fall, we look forward to replenishing our cozy candle collections, storing up for the months of chilly weather and dinner parties to come. Luckily for everybody, Bath & Body Works wasted no time in helping us do just that.
The retailer just dropped all of its ridiculously comforting Autumn candle scents both in stores and online, so naturally the internet lost its collective mind. We can't blame people for freaking out - we look forward to this every year!
wake me up when bath and body works starts selling fall candles
- india 🍒 (@indiawyant) August 1, 2017
FALL CANDLES FROM BATH AND BODY WORKS ARE OUT THIS IS NOT A DRILL!!!!!!!
- nicole (@nicole_madsen) July 31, 2017
I shouldn't go near a Bath and Body Works store when their fall candles come out
- Morg (@morganritt_17) July 28, 2017
With every three-wick candle priced under $25 and tons of regular discounts for Bath & Body Works shoppers, we won't even bother pretending that we're going to exercise self-control in this situation. How many candles per room is too many? Asking for a friend.
Check out each of the Fall scents ahead. You'll spot some old favorites, along with some brand-new scents for the season. If only we could smell through our screens!
32 Incredibly Chic Fall Decor Items You Won't Believe Are From HomeGoods
Oh, HomeGoods, how we love thee. The store is like a freakin' magnet, pulling us in with its surplus of affordable home decor items every time our paychecks come in. The only downside to the heavenly establishment? The chain lacks online inventory, making it difficult to plan out exactly which products are on our wish lists (and thus usually resulting in buying that extra candle or throw pillow that we most definitely don't need - oops!).
Luckily, if you're on the hunt for Fall-themed home decor, you can get a decent idea of what's on the shelves at HomeGoods stores by browsing through the #HomeGoodsHappy hashtag on Instagram, where plenty of shoppers have eagerly shared snaps of their finds. All of the items have one major thing in common: they look expensive and stylish, but they're all sold at budget-friendly prices that won't make your credit card beg for mercy.
Below we've gathered a handful of the most cozy and chic HomeGoods gems from all over social media for your viewing pleasure. But be warned: scrolling through the photos will have you running - nay, full-on sprinting - to the nearest HomeGoods to snag some similar items of your own.
13 Sharp Comebacks For When You're Called a "Spicy Latina"
Oh, the ever-present "spicy Latina" comment! It's funny how some people think it's the ultimate compliment or a term of endearment. But really, being called a "spicy Latina" is oftentimes rude, condescending, or just plain annoying. It also brings up stereotypes associated with Latinas, especially those in movies and TV. We can all probably agree that there's no need for the term - there are way better ways to describe what is often used as a synonym for someone unafraid to share her opinions. But while we all work to vanish the phrase from the world, here are 13 snappy but still gentle comebacks to use the next time this term is hurled in your direction.
- "Sorry, did I forget again that I am in fact a bottle of hot sauce?"
- "I'm so glad you didn't say 'muy spicy,' because then you would have been offensive in not one but two languages."
- "That was just my mild level, but now that you called me spicy, I'm going full-blown ghost pepper on you."
- "Oh, wow, I've never heard that one before. So original."
- "Next you're going to say I'm 'exotic,' and believe me, you don't want me to start acting like an animal in a zoo."
- "Yes, I'm spicy and I'm about to make your eyes water."
- (Yelling) "Unsubscribe!!!"
- "I prefer smart and sassy, thankyouverymuch."
- "Did you see the sign outside the door? It said: 'Check your stereotypes at the door, please.'"
- "You might as well have just called me 'mami,' then I can at least tell you to freaking behave, child."
- "Shocked you didn't call me 'caliente.' Is that not the preferred word for stereotypical attacks against Latinx? My bad."
- (Evil laughing until the other person gets uncomfortable.) "Nope. Just nope."
- "Boy, bye!"
ICYMI, There's a Finnish Word For Getting Drunk at Home in Your Underwear
Did you know there is a Finish word for drinking at home in your underwear? Indeed, Finland's Tourism Board put together a dictionary (complete with accompanying emojis you can download) of "hard-to-describe Finnish emotions, words, and customs." Included in the list of 56 phrases is kalsarikännit (pronounced cal-sar-y-cuhn-eet). It describes the "feeling when you are going to get drunk home alone in your underwear - with no intention of going out. A drink. At home. In your underwear. And there is a word for it."
If only we knew how to casually use kalsarikännit into a sentence. The Chicago Tribune questions what part of speech is kalsarikännit? Frankly, I don't know either. Until I cross paths with a Finnish person who can correct me, I guess I'll just use it as an ambiguous verb-noun-adjective. "Sorry, friends. Tonight calls for a kalsarikännit. I literally cannot wear pants a minute longer. I have only the physical strength to hold a glass of wine. You can find me on my couch. Bye." Thank you Finland for legitimizing this awesome, totally relaxing custom.
12 Cheap Amazon Prime Gems For Foodies
Amazon is really stepping up its game with its new Interesting Finds section. I've admittedly gotten lost in the beautiful stream of retro, hipster goodies, especially those that every food-lovin' person needs (or, you know, wants desperately). A few cheap but awesome items worth mentioning? I can't say no to the pipe tea diffuser. Then there's also the multipurpose stovetop/coffee maker/toaster oven appliance that I wish I had during my college days. All of these items are available through Amazon Prime for speedy delivery, so look ahead and prepare to swoon.
Why Outlander's Producers Completely Changed Jamie and Geneva's Sex Scene
Outlander season three arrived at a pivotal moment from the book in Sunday's episode when Jamie is blackmailed by Geneva Dunsany into sleeping with her, which leads to the birth of Jamie's illegitimate son, William, a plot point that resonates throughout the book series.
But in the books, the scene between Jamie and Geneva is controversial because she tells him to stop and he doesn't, which puts readers into the uncomfortable position of wondering if their hero has just raped someone. Fans have argued about it all over various message boards, with some flat-out saying it was rape, others arguing he couldn't have stopped and Geneva blackmailed him into it, and still others saying we shouldn't thrust our 21st-century ideas of consent onto an 18th-century man, much the way Claire objects so fiercely to Jamie laying his hands on her in season one but comes to realize he had to punish her for running off and endangering his men.
Author Diana Gabaldon addressed this scene in a 2016 Facebook post, saying that Geneva's blackmail (which threatens the lives of Jamie's entire family) actually makes Geneva the rapist.
By the mores of the early 21st century . . . plainly Geneva is a sexual predator, and Jamie is the one who very clearly says "No." ("No means no," right? Right? More about that in a moment . . .)
Geneva is blackmailing an innocent person, and a man who is a captive, without power or resources, coercing him into committing a serious crime (fornication with an unmarried young woman being technically a crime, even if consensual) as well as an immoral act - as well as something he patently, clearly, totally doesn't want to do and has so stated in the baldest of terms. It's obvious that it's Geneva who's committing rape, not Jamie.
Gabaldon goes on to say that "no means no" is a construct of the last 50 years and not an "immutable law of physics, true throughout all times and places." She also says that Geneva is "panicked" at the pain she experiences because it is her first time having sex, and that Jamie knows if he doesn't just do it, this encounter is going to drag on all night, so that's why he just goes ahead and gets it over with. Gabaldon also cites the facts that Geneva asks Jamie to have sex with her again after their first time and tells him she loves him as evidence that he did not rape her.
Some fans found Gabaldon's explanation satisfactory, but others argued that if you use modern standards to call Geneva a rapist, then you must apply those standards to Jamie as well - either they're both rapists or neither one of them is a rapist. As you can see, it's a complicated issue, which is why the show's creators wanted no part of it, choosing instead to make the scene sexy, intimate, and tender.
"We were aware of the controversy," executive producer Maril Davis told us at the 2017 summer TCA press tour. "In the books, at some point she says no - although he does say, 'Listen, once we start, I won't be able to stop.' That doesn't make it any better, but . . . we didn't really want to tackle that. It didn't seem like such an important part of the scene. The real important part of the scene is that Jamie is forced to go to someone else's bed."
Davis went on to say that this encounter is an important part of Jamie's time without Claire, both because of his son and also because it shows what kind of man he is. That's what they wanted to convey with the onscreen version of the scene.
"Obviously, Jamie doesn't feel the way about Geneva the way he felt about Claire, but he does have a tenderness for this spoiled child, despite himself, because Jamie is a really caring person," said Davis. "And he knows what it's like to lose his virginity with someone more experienced, and he wants it to be a good experience for her, even if he feels like he was coerced into her bed. We wanted it not to take anything away from Jamie-Claire, but we wanted it not to feel like 'was it rape or not rape?' That wasn't the point. It was trying to show Jamie as a very feeling, caring gentleman at the end of the day. Even though he doesn't want to be there, he's going to try to make it the best experience for her possible."
This It-Themed Candle Makes Your House Smell Like Demonic Clown . . . and Apples?
Ah, Fall. It's that wonderful time of year when you can brew yourself a nice pumpkin-spice coffee, wrap up in a blanket, and light a candle . . . that smells like a terrifying, child-devouring clown monster. OK, maybe this isn't exactly the typical autumnal activity, but for horror fans who can't get enough of It, Get Fictional's Pennywise-scented candle ($16) is a perfect find.
Contrary to what you might expect, the candle doesn't actually smell like an ancient creature who feasts on fear. Instead, it has notes of rain - like the movie's opening scene with the S.S. Georgie - along with red apples, salted caramel, and cloves. Bizarrely, it's actually a scent we'd be happy to have floating around our houses while watching scary movies this Halloween; this must be how Pennywise lures us in.
The company also offers some other iconic horror-themed candles, like Dracula, Sleepy Hollow, and Frankenstein. Forget regular old candles that smell like clean laundry or citrus - you'll want to stock up on candles that scare you from now on.
It's Time We Talk About Our Obsession With Demi Lovato's Eyebrows
OK, call me nuts, but I'm obsessed with Demi Lovato's eyebrows. I've been analyzing them for months (fine, it's been years), looking at them closely in pictures every time she hits the red carpet at award shows and makes talk show appearances.
In the past, I spent countless hours trying to figure out how the star gets her dark and bushy brows to be so perfectly defined, until her secret was finally revealed to me in an interview. "When I fill them in, I want to make sure that they're not too harsh in the inner corners, so they don't look drawn on. I like to have a smooth line underneath the brow and just fill in on top wherever there's little holes that need it," she told POPSUGAR.
But in my serious investigation, I discovered that Demi's brows have not always looked the same. They've actually been lighter, darker, thicker, thinner, curvier, flatter, more feathery - I might even say they're the most versatile brows out there. Scroll ahead to see what we mean. Demi's brows look good no matter what.
I KonMari-ed the Sh*t Out of My Kitchen and Here's What Happened
I don't know when or where I first discovered Marie Kondo's first book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, but the second I saw the inviting title, I ordered it pronto. I've always struggled to keep my spaces straight - it just seemed to take too much time and require too much energy. However, after attempting the KonMari method in my own apartment and tackling the messiest thing of all, my kitchen equipment, I'm a big-time believer in the methodology.
When I moved into my San Francisco studio apartment five years ago, the kitchen bummed me out, but it wasn't a deal breaker. The cabinets and arched doorframe were original from 1928, and I tried to let that cool bit of knowledge overshadow the fact that there was no window, no oven vent, no garbage disposal, and definitely no dishwasher. I didn't ever feel inspired to cook, except for work or the occasional guest. As a result, the kitchen slumped into a random assortment of junk. I accumulated way beyond my means (I somehow ended up with five zesters and 50 kitchen towels . . . not to mention a drawer full of spare knives), and I avoided getting rid of anything! It became impossible to close cabinets unless they were fastened with rubber bands around the handles, and I always had to forcefully shove my drawers closed with my hip. And for years, I lived like this, with complete avoidance and neglect about everything.
I tackled all my clothes, books, etc. in the order presented in the book, and even though I successfully tidied up each group of items, I still felt a lot of hesitation about my kitchen. I was so embarrassingly messy - me, the food editor! And yet, the time had come, and the overflowing cabinets begged to be sorted. I started with removing the stuff on the countertop and discovered a rotten avocado just casually decomposing in my napkin holder. (Ugh, I know. Wasting avocado is a sin, and sorry for the TMI.) Instead of supporting my usual habits of tiptoeing away from the mess, I bid a sweet "thank you" to the napkin holder (and, don't laugh, the avocado too) and swiftly tossed them in the trash.
It became easier to purge as I moved along, to give away the kitchen tools that no longer served me, and to create a pile of the items I adore immensely. I let go of some of the things that had been gifted to me that I couldn't see myself ever using and focused on the items I had invested in. My Vitamix! My knife set from culinary school! My few but beloved All-Clad pans! And when it came to the food in my cupboard, I tossed the snacks and seasonings I would probably never in a million years crave while cooking. Instead, I kept the things I can never get enough of: red lentil pasta, dried mango, lemon-flavored sardines, and capers. Yeah, I know my cupboard is weird, but it most definitely "sparks joy!" (This is the main point of the book: every item you own and that takes up space in your house should simply make you feel happiness - aka "spark joy" - when you touch it).
For a good six hours on a Friday night, I scrubbed and tossed and reorganized. Then, I stepped back to take a look. I was overcome with an emotion I had never felt in my tiny apartment kitchen - excitement to cook and pride for the space I made my own. I'll have you know, I now make breakfast and dinner every night, and I never see myself wanting to return to my old habits again. My kitchen used to be a throwaway space for me in my house, but now, I find myself giddy at opening a drawer to admire and use all the tools I love.
Debra Messing Calls Out Ivanka Trump: "It's Time to Do Something"
Debra Messing isn't done resisting Donald Trump's contentious presidency. The Will and Grace actress delivered a moving - albeit hilarious - acceptance speech at the 28th annual GLAAD Media Awards on May 6 and addressed the "very bad, and very orange man in our White House . . . at least a few days a month," she joked.
Messing, who took home GLAAD's Excellence in Media Award, called on all Americans to resist Trump's controversial policies and even urged them to text the Congressional switchboard in Washington DC. "Don't be shy, I know all of your cell phones are open because you've been taking selfies all night," she quipped.
Messing then spoke directly to Ivanka Trump, whom she referred to as "the secretary of state," saying, "It is not enough to simply say that women's issues are important to you. It's time to do something." Watch her full nine-minute acceptance speech above to hear her empowering call for action that will inspire you.
21 Hocus Pocus Tattoos That We Found "Quite Lovely," Thank You Very Much
Sorry, Hocus Pocus fans, but you're not really dedicated until you've got a Thackery Binx tattoo. At least, that's what we have come to believe after discovering the world of body art inspired by the classic '90s Halloween film! A permanent tribute to your nostalgic favorite is a fun way to keep Halloween alive all year long, and these 21 tattoos are the perfect place to start for inspiration.
Which one is your favorite? While we're partial to the Sanderson sisters portraits, each one of these is incredible! Time to run amok, amok, amok in the tattoo parlor.
Drop Everything and Listen to This Band That Justin Timberlake Discovered
One day in 2013, Adam tweeted at Justin Timberlake. He thought nothing would come of it, and so did his two bandmates, Matt and Scott. The next morning, they received a direct message from Justin on Twitter that said, "I've never done this before, but I felt the need to reach out to you guys." Fast forward two weeks later, and the three of them are having dinner with Justin at the Four Seasons in downtown Atlanta.
Shortly before this serendipitous brush with arguably one of the most legendary music icons of our generation, Adam Hoffman, Matt Lipkins, and Scott Tyler, who make up The Shadowboxers, had hit a wall. Although they'd just spent two rewarding years touring with the Indigo Girls and performing in front of thousands of people, the album they made in 2013 didn't make much of a splash, and they were forced to rethink their plan moving forward.
In a harebrained attempt to gain some more visibility, they decided to do a weekly cover series on YouTube. They did their own versions of hits by Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Pharrell, Frank Ocean, and, yep, Justin Timberlake. Their unique, irresistible take on "Pusher Love Girl" generated more than 200,000 views and elicited so much positive feedback that Adam figured they had nothing to lose by tweeting at Justin.
"I know you get a lot of these, but this cover of 'Pusher Love Girl' should be heard by you @jtimberlake," he wrote.
I know you get a lot of these, but this cover of "Pusher Love Girl" should be heard by you @jtimberlake https://t.co/3ykAlyoVip
- The Shadowboxers (@theshadowboxers) December 4, 2013
Justin couldn't resist. After sitting down to dinner with the guys and offering to mentor them, he spent the next few years helping shape their sound. And this past Summer, he worked in the recording booth with them for countless hours, eventually producing their new single, "Hot Damn," which was just released on Sept. 22.
The Shadowboxers originally hail from Atlanta. Adam, Matt, and Scott have been making music and performing together for nearly 10 years, ever since they met at Emory University, where I also went to college. I knew all three of them long before they were discovered by Justin and long before they were propelled onto the road to fame - and I wasn't surprised in the least that Justin felt so compelled to get in touch with them.
"We officially met at the beginning of sophomore year, and we started playing together in Matt and Adam's dorm room," Scott told me. I lived in that same dorm, and I remember walking past their door and hearing muffled music (and laughter). "We submitted to the Emory Arts Competition and won it," he recalled.
Within a month of graduating in 2011, The Shadowboxers were on the road, performing regularly with The Indigo Girls. But that chapter had come to a close by the time Justin reached out, and they were seriously rethinking their next step.
"We would have conversations that would turn into arguments that would turn into fights," Matt told me. Three sharp minds, each with their own musical style (Scott: an "epic '80s sound," Matt: a "neo-soul world," Adam: "blues/folk"), stuck in a room together day after day trying to create hits? They were bound to disagree at some point.
But it was their variety and ability to (successfully) cross over so many different music genres that attracted Justin and elicited his support. "He saw that we liked Paul Simon and Frank Ocean, and he saw that we had all these other influences," Scott said. "He saw that we had a lot of potential to go in so many different directions."
For Justin, The Shadowboxers were more than a couple of pretty faces who could sing (although they are quite the trio of pretty faces). They were wildly talented musicians who had a lot to offer - and who had all the trappings of a universally loved band that would one day sell out countless arenas of loyal fans.
"[Justin] is at a point in his career that he's done so much and he wants to help somebody else, and help us so that we don't make the same mistakes as he did when he was coming up," Scott told me. "He was in."
I wish I could say the rest is history, and that this was their big break, but that's not the case. The Shadowboxers spent the next couple of years writing song after song, still struggling to come up with the right sound. They hustled. They argued. Although they were getting support from Justin along the way (oh, and being invited to "his home in Montana to hang with him"), Adam, Matt, and Scott weren't hitting their stride quite yet. And they were starting to think they weren't going to make it.
"We would go through intense bouts of writing together," Matt said, which were then followed by unsuccessful dry spells. Round and round they went.
When I asked why they weren't signed on with a label during this time, Adam said, "We decided that [Justin's] involvement meant something bigger than going for a traditional label route. With one phone call, he can do more than a full team on a major label." So they patiently waited for Justin as he was touring, having a baby, and starting an artistic development company, all the while sending him demos of the music they were creating.
"We had written and recorded over 120 songs. We were frustrated," Adam told me. "Without being explicit about it, Justin wanted that." Finally, with the help of a producer named K-KOV, The Shadowboxers drummed up several songs that caught Justin's ear, and they ended up in a recording studio in June of this year, where they spent all month recording their new music.
"Justin showed up pretty much every day," Scott said. Out of their combined efforts came "Hot Damn," their latest single. It's timeless yet current, and it's impossibly catchy. It also has a healthy dose of attitude and confidence, which was instilled by Justin and K-KOV.
I dare you NOT to shake your ass to this song #HotDamn. Proud of my boys! @theshadowboxers : https://t.co/IgI4nCMzPW http://pic.twitter.com/LEJyIXggap
- Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) September 22, 2017
Justin shared the news of their single on his Twitter, and just as he said, all it takes is one listen to "Hot Damn" to fall in love with it. Having followed The Shadowboxers for the last several years, there's no question in my mind that this is their best music yet - and it's only going to get better from here.
"We couldn't have done it without the trial," Adam said. They needed to go through hundreds of songs and demos in order to come out on the other side victorious. "Having somebody outside of the three of us to finally steer us in the direction was really what did it," Matt explained.
Some of the best advice they ever got from Justin? "Own these songs," Scott said. "Nobody else has the 10,000 hours that we do. We feel armed and ready now that we've got the product dialed in."
When I chatted with the guys, we rehashed some memories from our college years. When we were sophomores, Scott and I had a jazz improvisation class together (I'm a pianist), but Matt didn't make it past the auditions. "I f*cking sucked at the time," he joked. He and Adam performed in the all-male (read: swoon-worthy) a cappella group on campus called No Strings Attached.
When you look at The Shadowboxers from the outside, it's clear that they're heartthrobs in the making, but when I recall my memories of them from the past, I can't help but think they've been heartthrobs since long before they were discovered and groomed by Justin Timberlake. Now the whole world will finally get to see what many of their friends have seen all along.
This Nike Sneaker Is the Perfect Shoe For LISS - and All Your Fall Outfits
The Nike Air Presto in Port Wine/Summit White/Black/Particle Pink ($120) is the Fall sneaker we've been dreaming about. Perfect for LISS days and brisk Fall walks, this everyday sneaker is so comfortable without sacrificing any style points - in fact, it'll add a superfashionable edge to your cool-weather athleisure looks.
As one of our favorite trainers put it, "There's no better time than Fall to go on a brisk outdoor walk." Harley Pasternak, MSc, says that walking is the best way to get lean and stay in shape, and doing so in cooler temperatures is ideal for fat burning. Toss these wine-and-blush beauties on and head out into the crisp Autumn air to get your steps and cardio in. Sounds dreamy, doesn't it?
If You're Eating Protein to Lose Weight, This Is How Much You Need Per Meal
Experts are pushing the protein when it comes to weight loss, and for good reason, because it regulates your appetite and satiates hunger. But if loading up on tons of protein is your main focus at mealtimes, you might be getting more than you need.
Certified dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition says to aim for "no more than 20 to 30 grams of protein at each meal." This is in line with the CDC's recommendation for women ages 19 to 70 to get an average of 46 grams of protein per day. But since everyone's weight and activity level matter, this handy chart should help you determine exactly how much protein you need in a day.
So why only 20 to 30 grams at each meal? If you've heard that eating more protein is better for weight loss, it's true, but Leslie says, "The body can only absorb 20 to 30 grams at one time. Eating this amount of protein is a good target per meal because that will help with satiety and be the max your body can absorb at the meal for muscle repair." This leaves room for the other nutrients your body needs. For the perfect weight-loss meal, you always want to combine your protein with carbs for sustained energy and both fiber and healthy fats to keep you feeling fuller longer.
So there's no need to eat scrambled eggs with your morning protein smoothie. And Leslie says you definitely don't want to focus on just animal protein. Plant-based protein like legumes, leafy greens, whole grains, nuts, and soy products offer fiber and are necessary for everyone to "help reduce heart disease, cancer, and can help with weight control."
5 Reasons Working Out at Night Will Change Your Life
I don't like to work out in the morning. I'm not a morning person. The aroma of coffee isn't something that wakes me with a smile. The light shining through the blinds at the crack of dawn is something I avoid as much as possible. The heaviest thing I want to be lifting in the morning before work is my pillow. As I said, I'm not a morning person. But wait, we're supposed to work out in the morning, right? Actually, no. You don't have to. In fact, there are a bunch of reasons you should train at night. I do and it changed my life from the first time I tried it.
First things first: Let's put the elephant in the room to bed. You won't be kept awake by training in the evening. That's an old lie that morning people cooked up with their elaborate breakfasts while we were hitting the snooze button and getting a well-deserved rest. In fact, a National Sleep Foundation study found that there was no difference in the quality of sleep for those who exercised vigorously in the evening.
1. You'll sleep better!
Numerous studies like this one have shown that people who lift weights in the evening have better sleep quality and duration than those who lift in the morning or afternoon hours. So, it will actually help you sleep better at night. Not only is a good rest imperative for muscle growth and recovery, but sleeping deeper and longer will enable you to feel better and fully rested by morning. You should definitely be more perky and ready to face the day ahead.
2. You'll have better workouts!
In addition to helping you sleep better, several studies found that training in the evening was the path to significant greater muscular gains and improved endurance. What does that mean for you? You can get more out of your workout if you train at night!
3. You'll have lower blood pressure!
A Journal of Strength Conditioning Research study found that people who trained at night lowered their blood pressure by 15 percent more than those who worked out in the morning.
4. You'll have better results, sooner!
A study from The New England University of Birmingham found that those who work out in the evening can go 20 percent longer and at a higher intensity. That means even more burned calories at night and the residual benefits of better workouts: tighter arms, stronger legs, leaner abs, and an overall healthier life!
5. Your body will be primed to work out!
Not just because you will be getting more recovery sleep and burning more calories either. According to research, our cortisol levels are higher in the mornings, which can inhibit muscle growth. But, testosterone levels are higher in the evening, which will boost muscle growth. So this is a great way to get those results even quicker.
With all these amazing benefits of working out at night, are you ready to give it a try? Go ahead, mix up your routine and see how much better you sleep, feel, and advance in your fitness goals. It just might change your life!
Every Disney Fan Should Complete This Incredible, Edible Bucket List
If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, the abundance of food options across all four parks can be overwhelming, but rest assured that these 28 foods have been well-researched and reviewed in person so you know everything here is 100 percent worth your money (and the calories). While a few iconic treats have made the list (like the Mickey pretzel and Dole Whip), some are a little more obscure (pork nacho fries). Expect this list to be a little sweet, partially covered in gooey cheese, and just a tad bit spiked, for those partaking.
The Best Movie Kisses of the Year So Far
This year's movie kisses bring out a variety of emotions: swooning, lust, envy . . . it's sort of the huge reason we go to the movies. Though some of these kisses are sweeter and some are on the very steamy side, all of them are worthy of reliving (and maybe some will end up as all-time best movie kisses).
10 Tips For Keeping Your Fig Tree Fit as a Fiddle
If your heart wants a fiddle leaf fig tree but your black thumb is standing in the way, San Francisco Bay Area editor and garden consultant Julie Chai can help! While she considers fiddle leaf fig trees to be reasonably low-maintenance, she insists on tried-and-true methods for keeping them healthy and beautiful. Anxious to master the art of indoor tree survival? See Julie's 10 tips for fiddle leaf fig tree success!
- POPSUGAR Home: What should people consider when searching for a spot to place their fiddle leaf fig tree?
Julie Chai: Fiddle leaf figs like it bright, so choose a spot where it'll get plenty of light for as much of the day as possible. Just make sure your tree won't have sun shining directly on it since that can damage leaves.
- PS: What do brown spots on leaves signify? Is there a way to stop the brown spots from spreading?
JC: Brown spots could indicate a number of problems, but they're generally related to too much or too little watering, and either of those could lead to disease. You'd need to troubleshoot, starting with making sure you're watering with the right frequency. Once you've resolved the source, which is most often water-related, the brown spots should stop.
- PS: If the large leaves begin to collect dust, is it important to wipe them? Does that really keep them from getting enough sun?
JC: You definitely want to keep your tree's leaves clean. Though dusty leaves could impact your plant's ability to absorb light to a degree, you'd need to accumulate quite a layer for that to be a major concern on its own. A bigger problem is that the dust could interfere with the plant's "breathing," and could also invite fungus and bacteria that may lead to pests and disease. I wipe my large-leaved plants with a soft, damp cloth - old cotton t-shirts are perfect for this! You could also use a duster. I even rinse my plants in the shower or hose them off outside a couple of times a year. If you do this, be sure you use lukewarm water - plants don't like cold showers any more than we do! If you're rinsing outside, do it on a warm day and dry the plants in indirect sunlight.
Keep reading for more helpful tips!
Will There Ever Be Medieval or Roman Theme Parks in Westworld? Sure Seems Like It
While the adventures of Dolores and Teddy in Westworld are perfect for any western fan, it looks like the highly anticipated second season of HBO's sci-fi drama will be exploring new genres (of amusement parks, that is). It's long been assumed that Samurai World would be introduced, especially after the show's Samurai-heavy installation at San Diego Comic-Con this Summer. Fortunately, it seems Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy also have some other exciting parks to introduce in season two.
On the second day of the Vanity Fair's New Establishment Summit in LA, Nolan and Joy were asked about what other parks from Michael Crichton's original 1973 film would make an appearance in new episodes, if any. Nolan went on to explain that the reason they left out Roman World and Medieval World in season one was because "we had to save something for season two." That certainly makes it seem like robots dressed in togas and renaissance cloaks will pop up at some point soon, right? What it also does is fuel suspicion that the Samurais seen at the end of season one might have been a red herring. Which other worlds, exactly, are we going to see in season two?
In Crichton's film, the artificial intelligence company that runs Westworld, Delos, has a handful of other parks for humans to enter and live out their wildest fantasies. Roman World and Medieval World are present, and in the 1976 sequel, a park known as Futureworld is also introduced. At this point, no announcements of Asian actors cast for Samurai World characters have been made public. What HBO has done is reveal that Gustaf Skarsgård (yes, Alexander and Bill's brother), Get Out's Betty Gabriel, and Rogue One's Fares Fares are all joining the show. Jonathan Tucker is coming on board as well as "Major Craddock, a commanding military officer." That character in particular sounds like a good fit for Westworld.
Though none of the new cast additions sound like a perfect fit for Samurai, Medieval, or Roman areas of Delos's parks, we do know that we'll at least get to see one of the new locations. In the season one finale, a self-aware Maeve (Thandie Newton) receives a note from Felix Lutz (the Delos tech played by Leonardo Nam) instructing her to search "Park 1" for her missing daughter. We'll have to wait until Westworld returns in 2018 to find out for sure.
The Best Pop Culture Halloween Costumes For 2017
We have literally hundreds of Halloween costumes inspired by pop culture around here, and though a timeless TV- or movie-inspired costume is always a winner, there is something cooler about picking something timely. With that in mind, we have tons of costumes for women and men from pop culture that are still very hot. From hit 2017 movies like Wonder Woman and It to TV shows everyone's talking about like Game of Thrones and Westworld, here are some relevant, fun ideas.
Shop These 11 Hilarious Food-Inspired Costumes . . . Because Being a Sexy Taco Is Necessary
If you're a food-obsessed girl who loves repping your favorite snacks, we found some fun Halloween costumes for you. Whether you want to be sexy or comfortable, there are plenty of hilarious choices. From a skintight Sriracha dress to a giant strawberry doughnut, we found some of the best foodie-inspired costumes that you need to try this year. Check out these unique picks that are bound to be Instagram hits.
Why the New Season of The Bachelor Could Be Pushed Back
Admit it - your Monday nights have lost their meaning ever since the last Bachelor franchise, Bachelor in Paradise, ended. But luckily, we never have to say goodbye to the drama-filled show for long! Next up on the list is The Bachelor, which means we're ready to watch 25 gorgeous women fight over one equally gorgeous man.
People were pretty shocked that ABC decided to bring back a blast from the past, Arie Luyendyk Jr. Actually, #BachelorNation had a lot to say about it. But when will we finally get meanings back to our Mondays? From the looks of producer Mike Fleiss's picture, Arie began filming with the ladies in September, which probably means there have been at least a dozen meltdowns by now.
Most recent new seasons of The Bachelor have begun on the first Monday in January - we're looking at you, Nick Viall, Ben Higgins, Chris Soules, and beyond. But since that day falls on New Year's Day, it could be pushed to Jan. 8. Then again, what's a better way to mend a hangover than to watch women sob over a man they've known for five minutes? NOTHING. So by all means, ABC, get to airing!
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