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
Why More Young People Are Embracing Gender-Fluid Identities
Illma Gore, gender-fluid artist who feels free between and within both genders. Photo courtesy Illma Gore.
In a gender-binary world, those who don't identify as male or female often have trouble fitting in. In a world that asks us to check a single box - male or female - what happens for those who don't feel either answer is exactly right?
Artist Illma Gore lives unbridled by the binary and knows firsthand what a struggle it can be to be gender-fluid. "Gender is actually more of a spectrum," Gore tells POPSUGAR. "Yes, you might be built with XX chromosomes or XY chromosomes, but being a man or a woman is separate from that. 'Man' or 'woman' is something that is, in a sense, a social construct. Those are words that we use to describe differences that we stereotype."
Gore, 25, identifies as gender-fluid, a gender identity defined as flowing in between male and female, in genderqueer parallel to identities like nonbinary - someone whose gender is outside male and female categories - and agender, someone who identifies as genderless. Gore settled on describing herself as gender-fluid four years ago after searching for an apt descriptor, uses he or she pronouns, and revels in the in-between-ness of gender identity.
The group is gaining momentum: the term "gender-fluid" was added to the Oxford Dictionary in 2016.
"When you realize you feel different, you try to grasp at what makes sense," Gore says, noting that "gender-fluid" offered freedom to dwell in between and within both genders. To Gore, being gender-fluid is "more about the freedom of individuality and accepting that" instead of declaring being one thing or the other.
Gore represents a growing group of people who identify as between genders, as both male and female, or as neither. The group is gaining momentum: the term "gender-fluid" was added to the Oxford Dictionary in 2016, half of young people don't believe gender is binary (a theory widely supported by neuroscientists), and two people in the United States have been granted nonbinary identities on birth certificates as states begin recognizing a third gender category that is not exclusively male or female.
How Gender-Fluidity Could Reshape Society
Joon Park is a student activist who identifies as transgender/nonbinary. "Being nonbinary gives me license, as the word implies, to be more fluid in my day-to-day life," Park tells POPSUGAR before noting that they consider terms like gender-fluid, nonbinary, genderqueer, and agender as "pretty similar."
Joon Park, transgender/nonbinary student activist. Photo courtesy Joon Park.
For Park, their nonbinary identity provides license to reconstruct the self however they prefer. This is why Park, 21, has changed their name. "I had a period of time where there was a lot of internalized racism and I went by Cody for a while," Park says. "As I was becoming more grounded in my gender, I came back to Joon because I thought it was a really cool amalgamation between my gender identity and my Korean identity." The act of naming, as Park explains, is an important act for transgender and nonbinary persons as it represents a rebirthing.
Leah Juliett, a student and LGBTQ+ civil rights activist, has a similar relationship to constructing the self. Juliett identifies as nonbinary gender-fluid and found the identity to be fitting after going back and forth between expressions.
"I always kind of felt as if I wasn't fully female," Juliett tells POPSUGAR. "But at the same time, I knew I wasn't fully male." Instead, Juliett says their gender identity "fluctuates depending on the day or the circumstance."
Juliett, 20, was introduced to the notion of nonbinary gender expression by way of actor and model Ruby Rose's 2014 short film on the subject, a video that was released with Rose's coming out. "I was always nonbinary gender-fluid," Juliett says. "But I never had a word to know exactly how I felt, to solidify that for me."
For Gender-Fluid Persons, Change Is Queer - but Not Here Yet
This sense of "creating" the self and landing in between commonly accepted, rigid genders varies widely for individuals who identify as gender-fluid. For example, not all gender-fluid persons identify as transgender, but some transgender people identify as nonbinary.
"I always ask, 'Hey, do you have a gender-inclusive bathroom?' just to raise that concern and get that conversation going."
The experiences of gender-fluid persons may seem abstract to those who comfortably identify as male or female, but the gap in understanding must be bridged. As Gore, Park, and Juliett each noted, their concerns are often seen as invalid, shrugged off as unnecessary or unreal, or at worst, used to dehumanize their experiences and identities.
Leah Juliett, nonbinary gender-fluid student and LGBTQ+ civil-rights activist. Photo courtesy Leah Juliett.
These problems are most pronounced in areas like bathrooms and doctors' offices, where rigid, gendered structures isolate and, in some ways, deny those who are neither male nor female. This can lead to nonbinary persons avoiding health care for fear of discrimination. "There's not place on a medical form for pronouns, for preferred name, and everything is gendered," Juliett notes. Moreover, one in five transgender persons have been "discriminated against when seeking a home," while one in 10 have been evicted because of their gender identity.
"Had I known [about gender-fluidity] when I was 10-years-old, it would have saved so many years of confusion."
The polarizing, landmark issue of bathrooms is a perfect example of the struggle for genderqueer rights. For Park, they make it a point to discuss this subject everywhere they go. "I always ask, 'Hey, do you have a gender inclusive bathroom?' just to raise that concern and get that conversation going," Park says, noting that this issue is becoming more and more pronounced as they enter the job market. "These are very important things for me to consider, how inclusive the workplace is going to be. Every kind of interview I have, this is something that I bring up."
For Gore, most discrimination against gender-fluid people boils down to a lack of knowledge. "I think most people are just confused and don't understand it at all," he/she explains, pointing out this as the reason he/she started the Gender Identity Liberty & Freedom Act, a means to change the Constitution to protect gender expression as free speech. The effort has already made some advances in amending the Constitution of California and will hopefully be voted on in 2018.
Gender-Fluidity Will Become More Common
Gender-fluidity may seem outside the everyday now, but these experiences and identities are gaining traction both in visibility and policy. From the granting of nonbinary birth certificates to nonbinary actors and roles like Asia Kate Dillon's Taylor Mason on Billions to Facebook, OKCupid, and Tinder profiles, change is coming - and the community is hopeful.
"I would love to see gender-fluidity recognized as an option as a birth certificate or ID," Gore says, alluding to the nonbinary advances in Oregon and California. "Had I known [about gender-fluidity] when I was 10-years-old, it would have saved so many years of confusion."
Park hopes to see more persons like themself reflected in the news and in TV and film. "A more national validation of these identities is something that I'm hopeful for, at least in my future," Park says. "Obviously there's a lot of conversations around bathrooms but, even in the media, I'd love to see more nonbinary characters."
For Juliett, the matter is simple: they and their peers want to be seen as human and their genders viewed as valid. "Everything in our society is so harshly gendered," Juliett says. "When you don't correspond with a specific gender, you're either going to be looked at strangely or subjected to violence or you will have no options unless you deny your own identity . . . We're just normal people who want to do our jobs."
32 Signs You're an Introvert
People are great - in small doses. I value my loved ones just like everyone else, but there are (a lot of) times when I need to retreat and recharge my energy. I'm a true introvert at heart. Introverts value their alone time, their comfort zones, and their way of doing things. They are great listeners, deep thinkers, and good judges of character. If this sounds familiar to you, you might be an introvert, too. Here are some qualities that all introverts can relate to.
- Crowds stress you out. Parades, concerts, big parties - these are not an introvert's idea of a good time.
- Your alone time is precious to you. For introverts, alone time is like the air you breathe. It's not negotiable. Introverts are often alone but rarely ever lonely.
- You're a great listener. Introverts listen first and speak second. This trait is especially valuable within the relationships that introverts build with friends, family, and significant others, because they are people who others feel they can come to for great advice and thoughtful dialogue.
- You form deep, meaningful relationships with people. You may not have a ton of friends, but you are very close to the ones you have. Extroverts are known for having multiple friend groups and a long list of engagements and events, and they generally love being around people. Introverts care less about the scope of their friend group but rather are more interested in the depth of the friendships they take the time and effort to form.
- You prefer hanging out with a small group of people you know. Introverts don't have that much interest in meeting new people. While this is often an extrovert's idea of a good time, introverts prefer to be surrounded by a small group of people they already know and trust.
- You're easily distracted. You're good at multitasking, but because there is so much going on inside your head, it's easy to get distracted and overstimulated by your environment. This is why introverts work well alone!
- You'd rather stay at home than go out. You are a notorious homebody. What's outside in the world that you can't create for yourself in your own home? Introverts look forward to days spent in their comfort zone, doing whatever they want for however long they want to - without distractions and without worrying about what anyone else is doing.
- You're able to look at the big picture. You have perspective and often think beyond the day-to-day, looking ahead to the future, to abstract situations and concepts, and to how decisions you make now will later affect you and others.
- You often overanalyze things. Introverts think. A lot. They agonize over every little detail of conversation from weeks before, they worry about things that haven't happened yet, they ponder concepts and theories just for the fun of it. There are always wheels turning in an introvert's mind - a trait that is both a blessing and curse.
- You recharge your energy when you're alone. The biggest difference between introverts and extroverts is how they recharge their energy. Extroverts seek interactions with other people to feel renewed, whereas introverts need to get away from others and renew their energy by recharging from within themselves.
- You hate being the center of attention. If you've ever had a surprise party thrown in your honor and still cringe at the memory of it, you're probably an introvert. You don't like for the focus to be on you at any time, and you do whatever you can to point the spotlight anywhere but on yourself.
- You often feel awkward during and after social interactions. Meeting new people is NOT your favorite thing. Social interactions - especially with people you don't know - are something that you generally dread. It's not that you don't like people, it's that you overanalyze the situation, and the energy it takes to be "on" during social interactions can drain you down to your last drop.
- Silence between you and a loved one doesn't make you uncomfortable. Many extroverts like to insert conversation into every moment, because silence seems like a waste to them. On the opposite end of the spectrum, introverts savor silence. They are happy to sit with loved ones and not speak, believing in only exerting the energy required for conversation if it's truly worth it.
- You're a really good judge of other people's character. Because introverts listen, avoid the spotlight, and seek meaningful relationships, they are naturally good judges of character. You have the ability to see beyond the exterior and are able to call a person's true nature pretty much from your first impression of them.
- Being around people drains your energy. While you are totally capable of being around people and socializing (and enjoy it!), you have a limit. After a certain period of time, you feel like your mental battery is drained. In order to recharge, you need to retreat to your comfort zone for some much-needed alone time.
- Your personal space is VERY important to you. Introverts love their personal space. In fact, they need it. Your personal space is a comfort zone of your own making, and you don't want anyone else encroaching on that sacred space unless you give them permission to.
- You usually think before you speak. Introverts are thinkers before they are talkers. You typically analyze everything in your head and sort out your thoughts and feelings before verbalizing them.
- You're extremely loyal to your loved ones. Because it takes a lot for you to let someone in, once you do, you are extremely loyal to your loved ones. Introverts are protective over the people they care about and are willing to walk through fire for them.
- You're in touch with your emotions. You are in touch with your feelings and know how to maintain a balance in your life. You're in tune with your energy level, with your emotional and mental states, and with what you want/need. You know (and understand) yourself very well.
- You savor your comfort zones. Introverts are open to new experiences, but they also cherish what they know. The familiarity is comforting and stabilizing to them.
- People mistake you for being shy. Introverts are often perceived as being shy because they are sometimes quiet and not as outwardly social as extroverts. However, many introverts aren't shy at all - they are just waiting to put time and energy into the right thing, rather than everything.
- You strive for success. You are driven, balanced, and independent - qualities that set you up for the success that you value.
- You are very decisive. You know what you like, what you don't like, what you want, and what you don't. While willing to try new things, introverts are also sure of what they know and are rarely indecisive about anything - big or small.
- You're independent. You play well with others, in your career, in school, and in group situations. Because introverts are great judges of character and good listeners, they are definitely able to work cooperatively. However, because they are easily distracted and overstimulated, they are more productive and successful when they work independently.
- You're good at thinking outside the box. A strong characteristic of introverts is their ability to think outside the box. This is especially an asset in an introvert's professional life but is also applicable outside the workplace. You are never held back by perceived limitations; you just think of another creative way around an obstacle.
- You absolutely hate small talk. Chit-chat feels like a colossal waste of time to introverts. Instead, you crave meaningful connections with people, with the potential for forming long-lasting relationships rather than more surface-level interactions.
- You feel relieved when people cancel plans. Introverts enjoy interactions with others, but they also anticipate the inevitable burnout that comes from spending too much time being "on." Because of this, you can't help but feel relieved when people cancel plans with you - it means you're off the hook.
- You can be intense. Introverts can sometimes take things (and themselves) pretty seriously. You love in-depth conversations, thinking critically, and theorizing about concepts in the abstract. You love reading, watching thought-provoking movies and TV shows, and overall seeking meaning in everything.
- You're in a close relationship or friendship with an extrovert. Extroverts are essential parts of an introvert's life, because they are very good at pulling introverts out of their shells, of persuading them to engage in activities they may not have otherwise, and of overall encouraging them to have fun and be outgoing. You are able to feed off an extrovert's energy, while still being able to retreat into yourself when you need to.
- You have a creative outlet of some kind. Many introverts are writers, artists, or creative in some way. Because their minds are always working and an inner dialogue is always running, a creative outlet can be extremely productive (and often necessary).
- You're a planner. Introverts don't usually like surprises, so they like to have a plan at all times in order to make sure that things go as smoothly as possible.
- You're very good at making yourself happy. You don't depend on other people to bring you joy; you're able to find joy within yourself and in the little things around you. This is one of the most valuable traits introverts possess, because they are capable of finding happiness no matter where they are and no matter who they're with.
It's Easy to See Why Thousands of People Are Making This Cheesecake Recipe
Your seemingly endless search for the perfect cheesecake recipe might stop here, thanks to Pinterest. The number one classic cheesecake recipe on Pinterest is Perfect Cheesecake from the blog Simply Recipes. It's been saved 146,000 times and has been met with the approval of hundreds of commenters, including one who wrote, "This cheesecake is ridiculously delicious! The best I have ever made and probably ever had."
What makes this recipe so special? It's a perfect example of a classic done right, with no frills or shortcuts. Like any good cheesecake, it starts with a homemade graham cracker crust. The rich filling has cream cheese, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and heavy whipping cream. What takes this cheesecake to the next level is the smooth, icing-like topping of sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla. The fresh fruit topping is the cherry - or rather, raspberry - on top.
If trendier renditions of cheesecake like Fruity Pebbles cheesecake or no-bake pumpkin cheesecake aren't your thing, stick to tradition and try this viral recipe that's guaranteed not to disappoint.
I Was Diagnosed With Breast Cancer at 25
My life before cancer: I was 25, working as a hairdresser, and excitedly planning my wedding after my boyfriend proposed to me on holiday in Hawaii. Five months after our unforgettable trip to Hawaii, I found the lump.
I had absolutely no pain at all. I was in the shower, washing under my armpit, and as I pulled back from my armpit, I felt a lump. I thought I had no symptoms, but I remember in the lead up to finding it that I was tired. I wasn't going out with my girlfriends or partying on weekends; I was just staying at home because I felt exhausted all the time. I thought I was just working too much and that getting up early to go for my walks was tiring me out. I didn't even think of my tiredness as being a sign until after I was diagnosed - then it all made sense.
After finding it, I left it for a few days until my fiancé encouraged me to get it checked out. I went to the GP, and she mentioned that it was probably a result of me working out too much at the gym, and it was probably just a bit of built-up tissue; even so, she gave me the referrals to get it checked out. My tests were on a Friday, so I had to wait until Monday for the results. I wasn't nervous at all because I didn't think it would be cancer - I was so young - and my family does have a history of lumps and bumps in their boobs, like fatty tissue, so I wasn't worried at all.
"When I went to my doctor on Monday and she told me it was breast cancer, everything in the room went black."
When I went to my doctor on Monday and she told me it was breast cancer, everything in the room went black. I don't really remember what happened, my fiancé put his hand on my leg and I couldn't handle someone touching me, so I shoved his hand off. I can't remember anything that was said afterward except the doctor handing me a packet of Valium and saying, "You're gonna need these."
Leaving the doctor's office after finding out, I told my fiancé to call my parents because I couldn't possibly speak to them - everything was a bit of a blur.
The very next day, I went in to see my oncologist - my mum, my sister, and my fiancé all came with me - where I was told the doctors were unsure of my prognosis. That day I actually asked if I was going to die, and they said they weren't sure, but they were going to try and save my life. That was really heavy. I was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; the lump was over two centimeters, which they considered aggressive, and it had spread to 13 of my lymph nodes. I was told I'd need a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Being so young, they were satisfied with my undergoing a lumpectomy instead of a double mastectomy at this stage. The doctor took into account my age, my marital status, and the fact I had no children so I was rushed from her office to IVF Australia to start the IVF process. They gave me the option of either saving my eggs or getting my fiancé involved and having embryos done - we decided on the embryo option because we were engaged and it came with a higher success rate.
My surgery to remove the tumor was delayed for six weeks until the IVF process was complete. Before the surgery, I would think every single night, "I'm just not going to make it." I didn't want to speak to my friends, I was really down and didn't think I was going to get through it because I had read a lot of things about breast cancer. It wasn't until after the surgery when the doctors gave me a clear margin - and told me they removed all of it and they didn't think there was any more left in there - that I thought things were going to be OK. Once I was healthy enough, I moved straight into chemo - every three weeks for eight months. But not long after my first chemo session, I caught a bad infection, which saw me quarantined in hospital for two weeks. My immediate family were allowed to visit but had to wear masks to see me. It was such a horrible time; I put on 12 kilos, and I lost all my hair, my eyelashes, everything!
"I kept telling my fiancé he should just leave me. I can't even describe how unwell I was."
I kept telling my fiancé he should just leave me. I can't even describe how unwell I was. Chemo meant I wasn't allowed to have contact with people for 14 days after every session because my white cell count had dropped so low that I was too weak, and I was picking up bugs so easily - if my husband went down to the pub to meet his mates, he'd have to come home, strip his clothes off, have a shower, and put a load of washing on before he could even touch me.
After chemo, I had to undergo radiation every day for six weeks. Once I finished my radiation, my oncologist suggested a new menopause treatment for three to three-and-a-half years, where they turn my ovaries, estrogen, everything that makes me female off and put me into menopause. I didn't get a period, my ovaries didn't work, I didn't ovulate, and I got hot flushes and all of that all the time. Eighteen months into my menopause treatment, I underwent my double mastectomy and breast reconstruction. The doctors didn't want to take tissue from my stomach to protect my chances of carrying a baby in the future, so instead they cut my back open and took all the muscles and lats out of my back and built breasts with that tissue and with implants. This means I now don't have any muscles in my back. You can feel my rib cage through my back, which means I'm a very weak when it comes to things like swimming and climbing - but I'm not a climber so it's not an issue for me. I just need to be careful.
"They cut my nipples out and threw them away and removed all the muscles out from my chest area to make way for the new boobs."
The surgery went quite well considering, until four weeks later when I got an infection in both boobs and both wounds in my back. My skin was too moist and wouldn't hold together and heal so my back wounds split open. I had to go back for emergency surgery twice - if the infection went from my back to my front, I'd lose my boobs completely and I'd be flat-chested for the rest of my life. I was very worried about getting a staph infection, so I chose to recover at home because I knew I could keep things cleaner at home. Two nurses would come every day because I had a vacuum attached to me 24 hours a day for seven weeks to suck the infection out of my back wound.
Three-and-a-half years after starting menopause treatment, I was done, and they told me my chances of falling pregnant were superlow because my body had suffered so much. They told me to wait at least two months to let my body recover, and eight months later, I fell pregnant, naturally. It was incredible! My oncologist was the happiest person I had ever seen when I told him the news. Everyone was really surprised and happy for me, because it really was a 50/50 chance.
Life is amazing now! Since my cancer, I finally got married, I opened my own salon, and I have my beautiful nine-month-old daughter, Mya - I'm really appreciating my life. Obviously being a cancer patient is the worst thing ever, but it also made me realize how good life is. I'm a very healthy person now, I walk every day, and I try not to have a bad day; if I wake up the next day, I'm just thankful. Thankful that my cancer journey has given me this outlook on life and not made me feel down for the rest of it, I'm actually really good now.
My little miracle, Mya.
This No-Equipment Workout Sculpts Sexy Arms Fast
Get a strong upper body with this quick five-move workout that targets your arms, shoulder, back, and core. Pickle jars and heavy boxes? No big deal! Read on for the workout, and get ready to impress.
5 Places You Can Watch Halloweentown From the Cozy Comfort of Your Home
Disney's Halloweentown is arguably one of the best movies to get you excited for Halloween. Not only does it star the late Debbie Reynolds, but if you're not looking to get too spooked, then the Disney Channel classic is the way to go. Here are the places you can watch it now that Fall is finally here, because it's sadly not included in Freeform's 13 Nights of Halloween lineup.
- Disney Channel Go: If Disney Channel is already part of your cable/satellite subscription, you can watch the Halloween classic for free on the website.
- YouTube: You can stream the movie on YouTube for $5.99.
- iTunes: Halloweentown is available for purchase on iTunes for $2.99.
- Amazon Channels: You can either rent Halloweentown for $2.99 on Amazon or purchase it for $3.99.
- Google Play: You can buy the film on Google Play for $5.99.
AHS: A Huge Clue About Ivy's Involvement in the Cult Was Hidden in the First Episode
When it comes to American Horror Story, I'm a firm believer in the fact that you can never read too far into something. If AHS fans have learned anything about ol' Ryan Murphy over the last seven seasons of the horror anthology series, it's that he's a veritable master of scattering subtle breadcrumbs about the true natures of his twisted characters throughout each episode. The same can be said of the most recent season, Cult, now that we know who is definitely under Kai's psychotic, charismatic influence. In fact, if you go all the way back to the first episode of this season, there's a clue about Ivy's involvement in the cult hidden in plain sight.
While Ivy (Alison Pill) is comforting Ally (Sarah Paulson) on the night Donald Trump won the 2016 election, a panicked Oz (Cooper Dodson) retreats to the kitchen with the Mayfair-Richards's housekeeper and also his beloved stuffed animal. He sits on a stool looking anxious and clutches the plush elephant to his chest (which you can see above, as pointed out by Reddit user jdeadmeatsloanz). Yes, the elephant is cute and cuddly, but the animal has also been the symbol of the Republican party since appearing in a cartoon in Harper's Weekly in 1874. And you know where else we've seen an elephant lately? On Ivy's face.
In season seven's fifth episode, almost all of the clowns in Kai's cult are finally unmasked. Ivy is among them, and her clown persona involves wearing a red and white striped suit and a grimacing elephant mask.
Only a psychic could have seen Oz's stuffed animal in episode one and put two and two together, but it's kind of fun to look back on that episode one scene now and pick up on Murphy's presumed attempt to hint at Ivy's true motives. It makes even more sense when you remember that of Ally and Ivy, the latter is clearly closer to Oz.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go obsessively comb through every scene of the premiere until I erase the image of that gimp from my mind. See you in about 20 years.
The Smartest Shoppers Take Advantage of This Aldi Policy
We reached out to an Aldi spokesperson named Liz Ruggles to tap an insider for shopping tips, and the best advice she shared is that you can return any Aldi-exclusive product for a full refund. It's no secret that Aldi is one of the most budget-friendly grocery stores in the country, and this generous policy makes it even more appealing.
If you're wondering why a food company would offer such a forgiving return policy, it's not because Aldi doesn't believe in the taste of its products - it's actually the opposite. Liz explained, "We're so confident in the quality of our products that we offer a double guarantee, which means if for any reason customers don't like an Aldi-exclusive brand product, we'll give them their money back and replace the item."
So if you open a bag of Aldi-brand pita chips, a jar of sauce, or even a block of cheese, and you don't like it, no sweat. You can make your way back to the store and get your money back. It's also good to know that there aren't any questionable ingredients or artificial colors in Aldi's food. "Aldi got rid of added MSG, certified synthetic colors, and partially hydrogenated oils from all of our exclusive brand food products. And more than 90 percent of the products on our shelves are under our exclusive brands," Liz told us. Now that you know you can return just about anything, will you be more adventurous with the Aldi items in your shopping cart?
Watch Gal Gadot Try a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup For the First Time Ever
You've probably eaten more Reese's Peanut Butter Cups in your lifetime than you can count, but Gal Gadot can't say the same. When the Wonder Woman star and upcoming SNL host stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the two got to talking about a very important topic: Halloween candy. "I heard a rumor that you've never tried Reese's Peanut Butter Cups," Jimmy said. "I never," she admitted as the audience gasped. "Well, today is a great day for you," Jimmy said. Gal shared her favorite chocolate with Jimmy (Shokolad Parah, an Israeli candy with popping candy) and admitted she loves both chocolate and peanut butter, but has never tried them together. "Magic will happen," she predicted of her first bite of Reese's ever. Scroll to the 5:09 mark to watch Gal's priceless reaction for yourself!
If You're Bumped From a Flight Involuntarily, Here's What the Airline Must Do
Lost baggage, long security lines, and annoying fellow passengers - traveling isn't always as glamorous as we make it out to be in our heads, and unexpected inconveniences are pretty common, especially with air travel. One of the most frustrating - and trip-altering - things that can happen is getting involuntarily bumped from your flight. Didn't know that was a thing? Oh, yes, it most definitely is.
Airlines often overbook flights because no-shows are relatively common, and by overbooking, they can ensure that they're getting the most money per flight by booking full flights so that even if some people back out, they are still filling those empty seats. Because the US Department of Transportation has cracked down on what airlines are required to do in a overbooking situation, getting bumped from a flight is less common now but still possible. Ever heard an airline employee asking for volunteers who are willing to be bumped in exchange for vouchers or other compensation? It's because that bidding war will often still cost the airline less than if they didn't get enough volunteers and then have to resort to bumping passengers involuntarily.
As a customer, you are entitled to compensation - sometimes monetary - for being bumped if you didn't volunteer to be. The whole thing is pretty complicated, so buckle up and read on for what to do if your flight (departing from the US) is overbooked and you're voted off the island . . . I mean, the plane.
You must be given a written statement of your rights.
Airlines are required to give a passenger being bumped a statement of their rights. The document will also explain how the carrier decides who gets to fly on an overbooked flight and who doesn't.
You don't get any compensation AT ALL if . . .
If the airline is able to rebook you on a flight that gets you to your destination within one hour of when you would have gotten there anyway, then you will not receive any compensation.
If you want cash, ask for it!
Assuming the airline can't rebook you on a flight that gets you to your destination within an hour of the original time, you should ask for cold, hard cash if you want it. Airlines are more likely to offer vouchers or plane tickets for future flights, but you can also receive monetary compensation in certain cases.
The airline must pay you an amount equal to 200 percent of your original one-way fare if . . .
According to US Department of Transportation, if the airline is able to arrange substitute transportation that arrives at your destination between one and two hours after your original arrival time (between one and four hours on international flights), then "the airline must pay you an amount equal to 200 percent of your one-way fare to your final destination that day, with a $675 maximum."
The airline must pay you an amount equal to 400 percent of your original one-way fare if . . .
If the rebooked flight gets you to your destination more than two hours later (four hours internationally) OR if they don't make any alternative arrangements for you, then you're entitled to 400 percent of your one-way fare, with a $1,350 maximum.
You can also get reimbursed for any other additional services you paid for.
If, on your original flight, you paid for any extras (such as seat upgrade or checked baggage) and you didn't receive those services on your rebooked flight - or if you had to pay for these services again in order to receive them - then the airline that bumped you must refund you that amount.
Ask for vouchers!
Airlines will sometimes offer vouchers for food, hotels, and transportation if you are going to have a long layover as a result of getting bumped. Make sure to explore your options so you can get the most out of a sh*tty situation.
You don't get ANYTHING if you missed your check-in deadline for your original flight.
If you snooze, you majorly lose. Make sure you know (and follow!) your airline's check-in rules, because if you miss your check-in time and are involuntarily bumped, "you may have lost your reservation and your right to compensation if the flight is oversold," says the US Department of Transportation.
7 Horror Movie and TV Locations You Can Visit in Real Life
When it comes to the scariest horror movies ever, there's a lot that can contribute to audience terror. There are ghosts and possessive demons; there are witches and monsters and serial killers. But perhaps one of the most terrifying facets of the horror realm is the idea of a haunted location. It could be a house, a hotel, or perhaps a stately apartment building. And while most horror movies are filmed on sound stages, some have snatched up real-life locations to bring their scares into reality.
This 1 Vintage Hairstyle Just Saw a 600 Percent Increase in Pinterest Searches
Like fine wine (but unlike mascara), some vintage looks just get better with age. Exhibit A? Curtain bangs, which, according to Glamour, are being searched on Pinterest 600 percent more than usual this Fall.
The look, which brings to mind OG cool girls and beauty icons like Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin, is definitely not new, but it is having a moment. Perhaps in the spirit of wanting to switch things up for Autumn, it seems like everyone on Instagram is debuting new fringe. After scrolling through the pictures, it's hard not to consider calling your stylist, grow-out period be darned!
Ahead, find beauty inspiration via this comeback look.
"Pace Yourself": This Olympic Medalist Tells Us How to Become a Better Runner
Ask any avid runner and they'll tell you that running is a challenging form of exercise that requires a lot of effort and attention. Nobody would know that better than Kristi Castlin, bronze medalist in the 2016 Rio Olympics for the 100-meter hurdles. Kristi and her teammates Brianna Rollins and Nia Ali made history in 2016 by becoming the first Team USA women to sweep an Olympic track and field event.
POPSUGAR caught up with Kristi and asked for her best tips for everyday folks who are trying to get better at running, whether it's in the name of weight loss or improved cardiovascular health. "One of the most important things I try to tell new runners is to set short- and long-term goals," Kristi said. "This way you never go an entire season or embark on a new running journey and not experience some level of success."
Once you have your personal goals set, whatever they may be, Kristi's first general piece of advice is "to pace yourself." She told POPSUGAR, "Rome wasn't built in a day, so expect to see good but steady results over time." Don't be frustrated if you don't see results immediately. You'll get to where you want to be if you stick with it.
When you've been training for a long time, Kristi says, it's inevitable that you hit a plateau. "The body actually memorizes workouts and adapts to them so there is a constant need for changing things up," she said. "Most of the time a plateau is mental. Sometimes a good mental break in reassessment can always boost that athlete to their next level of achieving success." When you feel like you're creeping up to that point in your fitness level, Kristi suggests you take a step back and look at your training plan and your diet.
"Adding new items to your diet can also help give you the energy and stamina needed to push to that next level," Kristi told POPSUGAR. Maybe you need more carbs or protein, so check in with your daily macros and see what you're lacking. Similarly, incorporating new kinds of run workouts into your routine will help you get faster and stronger. For example, if you've been doing distance runs, try some interval training. And if you've been doing a lot of interval treadmill workouts, try to fit in a longer run.
Finally, don't forget that slipping on your running shoes isn't the only way to improve your running abilities. "Swimming and biking are great cross-training techniques that definitely improve running," Kristi said. "Several of the movements emulate the technique patterns for running as well as for body workouts." During her preseason training, Kristi would "normally incorporate a two-a-day workout plan" that consisted of 20 minutes of jogging and 30 minutes of a jogging pool workout.
Not only does this keep the body guessing, but it also helps you strengthen your muscles and physically prepare yourself to accomplish even more in your next run.
Strong Abs Start With This 7-Minute Workout
Get the printable version of this seven-minute HIIT workout here!
When it comes to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), the pros definitely outweigh the cons. While it may feel unpleasant to push your body to go faster and harder for that short time period, the rewards are worth it: HIIT helps you blast more belly fat, save time, and burn way more calories (even after your workout is long over) than a lower-intensity workout alone. A 2013 study published in the American College of Sports Medicine's Health and Fitness Journal found that a few minutes of training at almost your max can accomplish all of this in way less time than a traditional workout. How much less? Try just seven minutes total.
The ACSM's interval workout consists of 12 exercises, which should be done at an intensity of eight on a scale of 10; each exercise lasts 30 seconds, with a 10-second rest in between. Repeat the circuit if you'd like a longer workout. Keeping the intensity up - and the rest periods short - is key, so keep reading to learn the moves and then get going! You'll need a mat and a chair or bench.
15 Songs to Listen to When You're Pregnant
Everyone has songs that remind them of some of life's biggest moments, and there's nothing like creating a good playlist to take you through a new life phase. Being pregnant definitely falls under the category of "huge (no pun intended) life moments," so we think that warrants an awesome list of jams to rock out to for nine months. From tunes about actually being pregnant - and those that nod to being in labor - to those reflecting on having a baby and becoming a parent, this playlist has got a little bit of everything.
Scroll through to see the 15 songs that you should play throughout your pregnancy, and listen to the playlist on Spotify below.
- "Capri" - Colbie Caillat
- "To Zion" - Lauryn Hill
- "It Won't Be Like This For Long" - Darius Rucker
- "Isn't She Lovely" - Stevie Wonder
- "With Arms Wide Open" - Creed
- "Cinderella" - Steven Curtis Chapman
- "My Wish" - Rascal Flatts
- "Lullaby" - Dixie Chicks
- "Slow Down" - Nichole Nordeman
- "Daughters" - John Mayer
- "Sweet Child O' Mine" - Guns N' Roses
- "Haven't Met You Yet" - Michael Bublé
- "I Saw God Today" - George Strait
- "I Wanna Be Sedated" - Ramones
- "Push It" - Salt-N-Pepa
200+ Adorable Halloween Costumes For Your Trick-or-Treating Tot
Is there anything more adorable than an excited child all decked out in her Halloween costume? From homemade and handmade to store-bought ensembles, there's something out there for every kid. We're rounding up our favorite finds of the year. Frozen? Yep, we've got 'em all. Belle? Yes, your princess is covered. Superheroes? We're flying high with these finds. Here, more than 200 costumes that are sure to garner your tot more treats than tricks this year.
These Are the Best Doughnut Shops in the US - No Arguments, Please
Sure, you can bake your own doughnuts, but why do that when there are so many good doughnut shops out there in the world? Everyone will always have their small-town favorites, but this mix of giant chains and smaller shops is what I believe to be the absolute best doughnut selection the United States has to offer. They're in no particular order, because they're all just that damn good.
If You've Ever Tried to Get a Kid to Take a Bath, You've Heard These 27 Excuses
Trying to get a kid to take a bath is one of the most patience-trying parental responsibilities out there. For some reason, kids hate getting in the bath as much as a cat does, but then once they're in and clean, they beg to sit and play until they've successfully turned into a raisin (and you're soaking wet with aching knees on the floor next to the tub). Regardless, kids are pretty filthy, so the task of getting them into the tub must be accomplished (at least, like, twice a week . . . OK fine, three times).
If you've ever tried to get your kid to take a bath, you've likely heard one of these 27 excuses during your attempt to get a wriggly body out of clothes and into the tub.
- They're allergic to water.
- Their friends don't take baths.
- They're not even smelly.
- Their favorite movie is on.
- The water is too cold.
- The water is too hot.
- They need to watch the iPad, and that's not allowed in the tub.
- They have "things" to do.
- They want to go to sleep instead (they won't follow through with that, though).
- They don't like the color of the tub.
- They didn't run around today.
- They need to watch TV for five more minutes.
- They took one last night (no they didn't).
- They don't want to take their favorite shirt off.
- Their underpants are clean, so . . .
- They don't like how the tap looks.
- They're too tired.
- They got wet in the rain . . . last week.
- They're not even dirty.
- They just ate so they can't "go swimming."
- They brushed their teeth this morning.
- It's too light in the bathroom.
- Now it's too dark.
- Their superpowers don't work when they get wet.
- They don't have school tomorrow.
- They didn't see you shower today.
- They just don't want to.
13 Halloween TV Specials From the '90s That Scared (and Scarred) Us
Terrifying TV shows might be en vogue right now, but we're convinced they wouldn't be half as good as they are if Halloween TV specials from the '90s didn't pave the way. OK, OK - that might be pushing it (the connections between Frasier and The Walking Dead are few and far between, we admit). But there's something about reminiscing about those sometimes-scary, sometimes-funny, sometimes-bizarre hours of television that always leaves us with a craving for candy corn. From Goosebumps to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, we've rounded up our favorites, but if you're in the mood for a real scare, check out the best horror movies streaming on Netflix this month.
Calling Home Town Fans: Erin and Ben Napier Have a Store, and It Sells Adorable Decor
You don't have to live in Laurel, MS, to get the irresistibly charming style seen on HGTV's Home Town. In addition to their design work, Ben and Erin Napier own and operate Laurel Mercantile Co., a home store. From prints of Erin's original art for your walls to country chic dining essentials for your kitchen, you'll find unique goodies to decorate every inch of your home. You could plan a trip to Mississippi to check it out in person, or you could simply log onto their website and have the Napier's handpicked (and often handmade) goodies sent directly to you. Ahead, we've selected our favorites.
Heartbreak Is on Display at the Museum of Broken Relationships
For as long as there's been love in the world, there's been love lost. And when love ends, what do we do with the mementos from relationships that once represented something beautiful but now are like tokens of heartbreak? The Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia, and the newer outpost of the same name in Hollywood, CA, are a collection of more than 700 such items from all over the world, representing relationships past, along with the stories of heartbreak or redemption that accompany them.
The collection includes items one might expect: wedding dresses, once-cherished mix tapes, and photo albums. But it's the unique items that steal the show: a small bottle filled with tears, an ax used to smash the furniture, a never-opened bottle of Champagne, the prosthetic leg of a war veteran who fell in love with his therapist, and a pair of size double-zero jeans once owned by a woman recovering from anorexia after an abusive relationship. The museum sees the donations as cathartic, founders said. "[It] offers the chance to overcome an emotional collapse through creativity," a museum representative said.
Read on to see five moving stories, all courtesy of the Museum of Broken Relationships, that accompany different items that once held a significant meaning for the people who donated them to the museum.
Oh Snap, the New Lucky Charms Have Snowman Marshmallows!
You guys, as if Lucky Charms wasn't already one of the best cereals ever, it just got a serious upgrade. A brand-new Cinnamon Vanilla Lucky Charms is rolling out to stores right now, but the flavor isn't the big deal. This limited-edition treat comes with marshmallow snowmen! We may have just entered the Fall season, but in the name of adorably shaped marshmallows, we might be on board to ring in Winter just a tad early.
So far, the new cereal is available at Target, but it will most likely pop up at other retailers as well. They're only $3 for a box, so you shouldn't feel too bad about buying several to stock up your pantry for the Winter. But if you'd rather something more on the chocolate side, you could always opt for the also-very-new Hot Cocoa Cocoa Puffs instead. Either one sounds pretty good to us.
Kids Ranked Their Favorite Halloween Candy - and We're Horrified
When it comes to shopping for Halloween candy, most adults reach for the bags of candy they'd like to eat, and who can blame us? I'm proud of myself if I'm able to abstain from dipping into the candy stash before the first trick-or-treater reaches my door. More often, I'm ripping a bag of candy open before I even leave the grocery store parking lot. Luckily, there's an easy hack for everyone handing out candy this year who wants to avoid a candy binge: buy the candy kids like. A recent poll conducted by Jet.com found that there's a huge difference between the most popular Halloween candy according to kids and adults, and the results might surprise you. While chocolate-focused favorites like Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Hershey's Kisses made the list of favorite adult candies, neither appeared on the list of candies kids actually want to get. In fact, only one candy made it onto both lists. Take a peek at the top eight candies kids are praying you'll dish out this holiday!
Le Creuset Released an Entire Millennial Pink Collection, and OMG, It's Gorgeous
I hope you're in need of some new cookware, because you're going to want every single thing from Le Creuset's new (millennial pink!) collection. Officially called the Sugar Pink Collection, the lineup of new kitchen items includes blush-pink dutch ovens and so much more, all in Le Creuset's signature enamel material and chic design. Honestly, everything is so gorgeous that it doesn't matter how small your kitchen is - you'll want to show it off on your counter at all times. From soup pots to skillets and tiny teaspoons, here's the complete list of pink Le Creuset items you'll want to add to your kitchen wish list.
25 Things You Never Imagined Asking Before Kids
When you become a parent, you start doing and saying things you never thought you would, including - but not limited to - asking ridiculous questions. The things you find yourself asking your kids may seem like nonsense to everyone else, but as a parent, asking your child why there's a toy train in the toilet is a perfectly normal (daily) inquiry.
Read through for 25 other weirdly funny questions parents ask their children on the regular.
- Is this poop or chocolate?
- Why is there peanut butter on the back of the couch?
- Where did you put that booger?
- Why is your foot in your mouth?
- Can you say "thank you"?
- What did I just say?!
- Do you have to do pee-pee?
- Did you brush your teeth?
- Why are you holding your privates?
- Can you please stop talking about private parts at the table?
- Why is your underwear on your head?
- Do you need me to help you wipe?
- Who's a big boy?
- Did you just lick that?
- Can you use your words?
- What part of "no" don't you understand?
- Is it good manners to pick our friends' noses?
- Why is your poop that color?
- Why are there Legos in the fridge?
- Do you need a time-out?
- How many times do I have to tell you?
- Who gave their broccoli to the dog?
- Are you sure you don't have homework?
- Did you just fart on me?
- Why do you only have one shoe?
Give Your Baby Bump a Sweet Makeover With 1 of These Creative Ideas
If you're rocking a happy, pregnant belly this Halloween and are still searching for the perfect costume, then simply adding some body paint might be the perfect solution. Women everywhere - especially in warm-weather climates - have found that with little more than a paintbrush and some nontoxic color, they can induce some serious chuckles along the trick-or-treat path. We've rounded up some of our favorite Halloween-themed bellies, but we want to know what you think: do you love the idea of painting your bump this Halloween.
This Kid Dressed Up as a Fart For Halloween, and It's LOL-Worthy
We know we're a good two weeks past Halloween, but when you just discover that a kid dressed up as a fart for his trick-or-treating costume, you are essentially required to share it, right?
That's our thinking, anyway. So, because the image really does speak for itself, we'll leave it at that. What a cute little stinker . . .
This Is What Solved My Extreme Bloating Problem That 4 Doctors Couldn't Figure Out
A lot of things changed when I moved to San Francisco. I was much colder. I bought my first real jacket. I tried Philz Coffee for the first time. I started a new job. And, out of nowhere, my stomach started ballooning arbitrarily throughout the week making me look three-to-six-months pregnant at any given moment, for no apparent reason.
Things that didn't change: my diet, my exercise routine (OK, I started doing a lot more SoulCycle), and my overall health. I wasn't eating more food or less healthy food, so I knew it wasn't weight gain . . . especially when my pregnant-looking belly would mysteriously disappear by morning, and I was back to a flat stomach. But sometime during the day, I'd eat a peach or go to a cardio workout, and BAM: back to bloat. Biiiig bloat. I would snap photos to send to my mom (as you'll see below) because I couldn't believe what was happening to me, and I was horrified.
For 11 months, I wasn't comfortable with my body. I couldn't wear fitted clothing (aka, ALL of my activewear), because I knew at some point, my lower abdomen would jet out, and anyone who didn't know me would assume I was with child. I've been so afraid to eat, because I knew that anything could trigger my stomach, from a piece of fruit to a sip of sports drink. Yet then there would be days when I said "eff it!" and ate Cinnamon Toast Crunch and milk, and nothing happened. It made absolutely no sense.
I've never felt more more ashamed of my appearance, or more uncomfortable in my own skin . . . and I'm even ashamed to admit that! My body simply didn't feel like mine. And the worst part was that it didn't seem like there was an explanation or end in sight.
I saw so many doctors and went through so many labs; my initial appointment was to see if it was hormonal. It wasn't. I saw an OB-GYN. I had two ultrasounds. I tried the low-FODMAPS diet (it didn't go well). I had my blood tested for a thyroid imbalance. My doctors were stumped, and I was frustrated to the point of many angry tears.
"For 11 months, I wasn't comfortable with my body . . . I've never felt more more ashamed of my appearance."
Two glimmers of hope seemed to come at once: my doctor referred me to a phenomenal GI, and one of my close friends referred me to an acupuncturist and naturopathic doctor here in the city. Although I had been through so many appointments and tests already with no results, I tried to remain optimistic. And these were still two avenues I hadn't tried!
First up was my acupuncture visit with Dr. Magnolia Ng of Advance Health SF, and then my GI appointment with gastroenterologist, Dr. Daniel Conlin. Two very different doctors from very different backgrounds seemed to know the source immediately: stress. It was the first time anyone had brought up the idea that something mental could trigger such a strong physical reaction, but they both seemed certain. Stress was the one factor that did come into play when I moved. Long-distance move to a new city, new job, new everything equals one stressed out me. I didn't even notice because everything has been so go-go-go.
Dr. Conlin didn't cut any corners in his approach, and he didn't just write me off saying, "you're stressed, just calm down!" and send me on my way after collecting a copay. He tested my blood and breath for celiac, SIBO, h. pylori, IBD, and post-infection bacterial overgrowth (everything came back negative). He asked me to eliminate dairy, despite the fact that he didn't really think I was lactose intolerant. He went through so many avenues, but kept coming back to the idea that it was probably stress-induced. I asked him if I was a "freak case" or if he had seen this in other patients, and he said, "You're definitely not alone; I see this in many young women your age, typically high-achieving, A-type college grads who work here [in San Francisco] in some kind of fast-paced tech or startup company." It was like he read my bio. He knew. I knew. It was stress.
What I appreciated most about Dr. Conlin was his approach to treatment. He said if it was a celiac or SIBO case, he'd have different recommendations, but for me, he thought acupuncture, charcoal tablets, ginger root, and ginger tea, and specifically Align probiotics would be helpful in my treatment (he noted that it's the only brand he recommends, so I went with it). His openness to natural treatment despite coming from a Western background increased my trust in him and made me more comfortable in my health journey.
It was hard to explain to family and friends that stress was causing arbitrary abdominal distention, so I wanted to learn more. Apparently, an influx of stress can upset the microbiome (the ecosystem of good and bad bacteria in your gut, which can influence nearly all areas of your health). I spoke with Amie Valpone, nutritionist and founder of TheHealthyApple.com, who gave me some incredible insight as to what has been happening in my body. "Having too much non-beneficial bacteria in your gut has been linked to many health issues such as heart disease, fibromyalgia, eczema, asthma, depression, cancer, autoimmunity, allergies, obesity, autism, and allergies," she said . . . and in my case, inexplicable abdominal distention.
"We are so caught up in our busy lives that we don't realize how stressed out we are - that's when the health issues start to appear out of nowhere."
"When our microbiome is out of balance from stress, we get an imbalance of non-beneficial bacteria such as yeasts, parasites, and bad bacteria that take over and make us feel bloated, tired, and bring along a host of unwanted symptoms that range from person to person."
She went on to say that "change in diet, travel, processed foods, and stress from work, our family, friends, and so forth," can trigger this imbalance, but "we are so caught up in our busy lives that we don't realize how stressed out we are - that's when the health issues start to appear out of nowhere." It was amazing to hear those words of affirmation, because that's exactly what I had experienced. It was totally out of nowhere, and I truly had been so caught up in my busy life.
My gut was off thanks to stress, which caused the inexplicable bloating (that couldn't be attributed to anything I was eating) and the mission now was to use different natural remedies together to restore balance and get me out of a place of stress (that's a work in progress, honestly). "The goal is to address the underlying root cause of why your gut is imbalanced in the first place, instead of covering up your symptoms with a Band-Aid approach," said Amie. "That's where food, stress, mind-body practices, and probiotics come into play."
Dr. Ng had an additional approach to pair with my acupuncture treatments for both stress and energy blockages in my abdomen: Chinese herbs. She prescribed and gave me a bottle of Mu Xiang Shun Qi Pian, or "BloatEase," to take three times a day. "Emotional upset such as frustrations or worry, overwork, and a constitutional or genetic weakness can make a person prone to digestive disorders," she told me. The herbs and the acupuncture were intended to set things right again. She also mentioned to me the importance of using both traditional Eastern medicine in combination with Western medicine - and my recovery has been a testament to that.
The combination of treatment has been absolutely life changing for me. The Chinese herbs, probiotics, and acupuncture treatment (along with continuing to eat a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying on my workout schedule) has helped restore my body to its natural shape. The bloating is going away, even though I still have to work on de-stressing. When it does happen, the bloating has decreased in size, severity, discomfort, and frequency, and I'm finally starting to feel comfortable with my body again.
What did I learn from all this? For one, Western and Eastern medicine aren't mutually exclusive, and in fact, when they're used together, they've got a symbiotic, 360 approach that can be even more effective than if either were used on their own.
I've also learned to advocate for my health. If you're not getting answers, don't give up. Make another appointment. Bug your doctor. Ask for another referral. Don't take no for an answer. The world of healthcare is freaking nuts, and if you don't advocate for yourself, no one else will. I got pretty lucky in the way that my doctors were really helpful and responsive when I pushed, but I still had to jump through a lot of hoops to get the treatment I needed. Don't be intimidated, don't give up, and most of all, don't stress. A solution is out there for you, too.
This post was originally published on October 26, 2016.
Give Your Highlight Extra Shine With These Application Techniques
There are three universal steps when it comes to applying makeup: prime, apply, set. But did you know that highlighter actually has its own set of rules? For a truly glistening glow that goes on flawlessly smooth, a few simple steps are all you need to follow. From concealing to setting to swiping on a contour shade for added dimension, watch the video above to get the most out of your glow.
We've partnered with Nordstrom to share clever makeup tips learned from its team of beauty stylists.
Products Used: Tom Ford Concealer, Tom Ford Illuminating Powder, Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow, Nars Multiple Stick in Orgasm, Mac Eyeshadow in Malt, Mulch, and Espresso, Charlotte Tilbury Eye Pencil in Barbarella Brown, Diorskin Nude Air Luminizer Powder, Diorshow Lash Extension Effect Volume Mascara, Anastasia Brow Wiz Mechanical Pencil, Anastasia Clear Brow Gel, Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Birkin Brown.
This Impression of How Moms vs. Dads Handle Kid Puke Will Make You Vomit From Laughing
We don't really want to know what triggered Carolanne Miljavac to post a video to Facebook imitating what it's like for moms to handle a puking kid compared to dads. We imagine it involved her reflexively, instinctively cupping her hands beneath her child's vomiting mouth to catch whatever she could while her coparent huddled in a far corner of the room, sympathy heaving.
Whatever happened, the good news is that we all have this hilarious video that offers up a documentary-style impression of motherly instincts while also outlining the real reason we'd gladly have our kids retch all over our sweatshirt than the carpet.
You'll Want This Star Wars Line of Fitness Gear to Use the Force on Your Core
Whether you're on the dark side or the light, you'll find something to love in Onnit's new line of Star Wars-inspired fitness gear. With a yoga mat, a slam ball, and a set of different kettlebell weights, the line includes everything you need for an engaging workout. Good in both hot outdoor settings like Tatooine and indoor spaces like the Jedi Temple, the Onnit line has an all-black aesthetic that would make Kylo Ren jealous.
The intergalactic workout goodies are available for preorder right now, so you can start using the Force to tone your physique as soon as the products become available. In the meantime, check out the products and descriptions from the line. You'll immediately grab your wallet . . . and that's no Jedi mind trick!
The Best Gifts For 9-Year-Olds
The 9-year-old on your list is precariously straddling the line between kid and tween. That's why we've rounded up our favorite toys to help him feel like he's making progress - but not leaving the toy world completely behind. From cozy socks that double as slippers to toys that interact with smartphones and gaming devices, here are our favorite picks for 9-year-olds.
23 Chicken Recipes Made in a Slow Cooker
Some weeks work, social obligations, and household tasks pile up, making the idea of cooking a meal seem fanciful, even unachievable. When that happens, let your slow cooker be your savior. Armed with this piece of equipment, dinner can practically cook itself. Here, we rounded up more than 20 recipes made with a crowd-pleasing, affordable ingredient: chicken.
What Not to Wear to Yoga Class, Because Wardrobe Malfunctions Are Never Fun
Yoga is definitely not black and white, but there are some dos and don'ts when it comes to your attire. Comfort and fit are key so you can focus on doing the poses instead of futzing with your outfit. Check out these suggestions so you know what not to wear for yoga.
27 Healthy Chinese Recipes That Beat Any Takeout Menu
If there's one thing we know, it's that switching up what we eat and trying out new recipes make eating healthy a whole lot easier. So, instead of reaching for the phone to order a sodium-filled meal of sesame chicken, just make a better version yourself! There are plenty of healthy, easy Chinese food recipes that will become your new "takeout," and we have them for you here.
Why the F*ck Aren't You Watching The Bold Type Yet?
At first glance, Freeform's The Bold Type might come across as a series of cliches. The feel-good Summer dramedy produced by former Cosmopolitan editor in chief Joanna Coles follows 20-somethings Jane Sloan (Katie Stevens), Kat Edison (Aisha Dee), and Sutton Brady (Meghann Fahy) as they attempt to navigate their blossoming careers at Scarlet (a Cosmo-esque magazine) while also dealing with the pitfalls of dating in NYC. We've heard that song and dance before, right? Yes. But we've also never seen it done like this.
While The Bold Type does go down a path that's been well-trodden by other stilettoed feet, the show remains fresh, smart, and completely charming. With each episode, it admirably bucks the tired tropes we've seen in stories like this before with ease: the dragon-like HBIC, backstabbing female coworkers, worn-out love triangles. In their place is a relatable story about three women who are doing their damn best, despite making one monumental mistake after another. Season one, which just concluded with its Summer finale on Sept. 5, has its own fair share of mistakes, but it's Jane, Sutton, and Kat's "we're in this together" mentality that buoys some of the weaker plotlines. Actually, it's the friendship between them that made me fall so hard for The Bold Type in the first place.
"Do you really think realist Miranda would put up with self-obsessed Carrie for that long? And . . . who in their right mind could ever willingly keep a relationship with Hannah Horvath going?
There are few times in life as tumultuous as your early 20s; you're trying to find success in both your love life and your career as you inevitably make a few mind-numbingly bad decisions. It's an essential part of growing up, and it's a painful struggle we've seen portrayed in everything from Girls to Sex and the City. None of the female friendships in those shows, however, have ever struck me as particularly realistic. I loved, and still love, a lot of those characters, but I couldn't help wondering why any of those women were even friends with each other to begin with. Do you really think realist Miranda would put up with self-obsessed Carrie for that long? And while we're on the topic of narcissism, who in their right mind could ever willingly keep a relationship with Hannah Horvath going? Fortunately, this is not the case when it comes to The Bold Type's trio.
No matter how many ups and downs Jane (a writer), Kat (a social media editor), and Sutton (a fashion assistant) face, I never once find myself doubting how genuine the bond between them really is. Some of the dialogue on the show can get clunky while tackling each episode's Big Issue (which ranges from immigration reform to Donald Trump), but the conversations between the main characters are so spot-on, so familiar, that it truly feels as if I'm gossiping to my own friends on the phone about a bad Tinder date rather than watching fictional characters discuss their latest dating misstep.
A lot of the time, female-led TV shows are hailed as feminist achievements as long as they don't feature women who aren't actively ripping each other to shreds, even if they don't take the time to really flesh out the characters. And while, yes, Sutton, Kat, and Jane aren't stabbing each other in the back, they aren't sugarcoating anything either.
In the eighth episode, "The End of the Beginning," Kat finds out from the magazine's CEO that layoffs are imminent but is sworn to secrecy. She's forced to watch her two best friends lose their minds with worry over the rumors as she pretends to be just as in the dark as they are. When they find out she's been keeping the secret all along one night, though, a blow-out fight in their tiny apartment ensues.
That might have been the end of their friendship or kicked off a multiple-episode-long arc about the resulting feud in any other show, but the three BFFs make up the next morning like regular, IRL adults who share an authentic affection for each other. The moment, though not even a major plot point, struck me with its subtlety.
Like Jane the Virgin, Younger, and Insecure, The Bold Type is a fantastic step forward for female storytelling on television. It might not be a "prestige" series, but that doesn't make the work it's doing or the conversations it's starting any less important. For instance, in season one alone, Sutton finds the courage to ask for a raise, Kat learns to be unashamed of her sexuality, and Jane faces a major health issue head on.
"The Bold Type is a fantastic step forward for female storytelling on television."
The deft way the show tackles these themes has never been more evident than in the finale, "Carry the Weight." Jane decides to write her last story at Scarlet about Mia (Ana Kayne), a performance artist and rape survivor modeled after Columbia student Emma Sulkowicz.
Jane's boss and Scarlet's editor in chief, Jacqueline - the wonderful Melora Hardin, who flips the Miranda Priestly stereotype on its head with her compassionate take on the character - pushes Jane go deeper with the story, pressuring her to get it right. In the episode's emotional conclusion, we find out that Jacqueline is a rape survivor herself when she joins Jane, Kat, and Sutton at Mia's performance in Central Park and holds Mia's weights herself. It's not the first time I've cried while watching The Bold Type, and I hope it's not the last (please renew this beautiful show, Freeform!). In fact, I welled up again a few scenes later as Jacqueline recounts the night she was raped to Jane. The Bold Type has no shortage of soaring pop songs to help do the emotional lifting in some of the show's heavier scenes, but this moment is quiet in its power. Few shows have ever handled talking about an issue like this so deftly.
Given the current political climate, pop culture consumers have come to labeling progressive movies and TV shows as necessary "now, more than ever." The Bold Type, with all its fluff and deliciously dramatic romantic entanglements fitting in just fine alongside its meatier storylines, is just as worthy of that distinction. At the end of the pilot, Jacqueline delivers a powerful speech about how "Scarlet will always be that older sister, and we will always be there for the girls who need her." She goes on to tell Scarlet's employees to have adventures, to make mistakes, to have sex with the wrong people (and the right people), and to "unleash holy hell."
Those words, which are echoed by Sutton, Kat, and Jane in the finale, are the perfect summation of the show in general. At a time when so many young women (and young people in general) are scared, conflicted, and wondering what step to take next in life, The Bold Type is here to inspire them to be, well, bold.
Our Favorite Candy Bars Just Got Filled With Protein, and We're on a Sugar High
There's nothing healthy about a chocolate bar, right? The oozing, sugar-filled deliciousness stuffed in between layers of chocolate doesn't really leave room for any nutritional benefits. But Mars, the manufacturer of brands like Snickers, Twix, M&M's, and more, just gave some of our favorite candy bars a protein-filled upgrade, and it's leaving fitness fanatics ecstatic.
Protein by Mars is a new line of protein candy bars that puts a unique spin on the classics. Snickers, Milky Way, Bounty, and Mars bars have all received the protein treatment with 18 to 19 grams added into each bar. They are fewer than 200 calories each and could be a revolutionary way to fuel up and satisfy your sweet tooth, all at the same time. The bars are sold on Amazon, but are only available in the United Kingdom.
Read on to see photos of the protein candy bars, and stay tuned for more information about these treats making their way to the US. In the meantime, check out how to make your own healthy vegan Snickers.
The Best Total-Body Workout That You're Probably Not Doing
The rowing machine is getting more and more use lately, as many fitness enthusiasts are discovering the power of this surprisingly simple (but crazy effective!) workout. CrossFit boxes love incorporating rowing into their programs, and boutique rowing studios are starting to pop up in major cities, but for some reason, we're still seeing empty rowing machines at the gym.
To find out a little bit more about what makes rowing so amazing, we talked with a couple experts - Kevin O'Connell, coach at Reebok CrossFit ONE, and Dino Adelfio, instructor at Row Club rowing studio in San Francisco - and we took a class ourselves. Holy. Cow. That class was hard, but incredible! We were definitely feeling the burn the next day (hello, quads!).
Here are four reasons you should try rowing now:
- It's a Total-Body Workout: Did you know that rowing uses 86 percent of the muscles in your body? That's pretty hard to beat. Plus, rowing is a cardio workout, which burns major calories and leads to a healthier heart.
- It's efficient: Adelfio told us that NASA astronauts train with rowing, because it's so efficient. Thirty minutes of rowing can have the same physical impact as 90 minutes of cycling, so if you're short on time, skip Spin and head to the gym for a quick session.
- It's versatile: The moves you do in rowing "carry over to the mechanics of other movements" outside the gym, explains O'Connell. CrossFit founder Greg Glassman defines this as "universal recruitment patterns," a characteristic of Functional Movements. When we took our first rowing class, we experienced firsthand how the rowing movement breaks down into squat and front row, working many different muscle groups.
- It's injury-safe: O'Connell says that with rowing, "there is minimal impact loading, so it is safe for individuals that may have had ankle, knee, or hip injuries." NOTE: make sure to keep the damper - which controls the resistance - set to 5 and no higher!
Ready to get started? Here's how to start using the rowing machine. If you're more familiar with the machine, try our rowing interval workout.
9 Last-Minute Halloween DIYs That Will Still Win the "Best Costume" Prize
While some may be all about Halloween months in advance, it's more than alright if you're all about last-minute planning and sifting through your closet in search of inspiration. The reality is just because you have a last-minute Halloween costume doesn't mean it's not going to be Instagram-worthy! For proof, we pulled together nine ideas that can be ready in mere minutes and still deliver.
33 Things That Make Disneyland Better Than Disney World
Disclaimer: this is my personal opinion, and as a California native who has been to Disneyland countless times (far more than Disney World), I fully recognize my bias. That said, Disneyland is actually the best and way better than Disney World. Here's why.
No Hell's Kitchen Here: Gordon Ramsay's Real-Life Kitchen Is Heaven-Sent
Gordon Ramsay might terrorize would-be chefs on his hit show Hell's Kitchen, but at home, the celebrity chef's own kitchen is nothing short of heaven-sent. The elegant space boasts design touches so fine that even the most sophisticated decorator will swoon over them. We break down the Ramsay's enviable kitchen ahead.
16 Design Features That Prove Gal Gadot's Real-Life House Is a Wonder
When Wonder Woman star Gal Gadot isn't kicking butt on screen or looking flawless on the red carpet, she's spending quality time with her adorable family in Israel. And while her real-life home might not be as exotic as the Amazonian island of Themyscira, we think it's its own kind of paradise. Contemporary and stylish, she resides in the perfect abode for a modern-day superhero. Check it out ahead.
The New iPhone X Is Breathtaking, and Yes, It Costs $999
Finally! After months of speculation and rumors, Apple's 10th anniversary iPhone is coming - and it's called the iPhone X. The company announced the revolutionary iPhone at an event on Sept. 12. Check out some of the details ahead (including its eyebrow-raising price):
- A redesigned display: The new iPhone display is 5.8 inches and is an organic light emitting diode (OLED), bezel-free screen.
- No more home button: The iPhone X will do away with the home button and Touch ID and instead introduce Face ID, a new facial recognition technology.
- Face ID promises to be secure: Apple also ensures Face ID will learn your face and "adapt" to any change such as different hairstyles, lighting, and wardrobe.
- A new way to charge: Say goodbye to your fraying iPhone charging cords; the new iPhone will come with wireless charging. You can use existing Qi charging devices or wait till 2018, when Apple comes out with AirPower, its own charging pad.
- A more delicate casing: Instead of aluminum, the iPhone X's back and front is made out of glass.
- Rose gold is out: The iPhone X will come in space gray and silver.
- Portrait mode everywhere: Both the front-facing and rear-facing cameras will come with Portrait Mode, along with the new Portrait Lighting feature.
- A hefty price: The iPhone X will retail at $999 for a 64GB model and start at $1,149 for a 256GB model.
The iPhone X will ship with iOS 11, which includes the new animated emoji feature Animoji. Presale starts on Oct. 27 and is expected to ship out on Nov. 3. Ahead, see more photos of the new iPhone - and decide for yourself if the price tag is worth the hype.
Kristen Bell Just Designed a Sloth Spatula For Williams-Sonoma. Need We Say More?
Unless you're living under a rock - or napping in a tree like a . . . well, you know - then you're aware that actress Kristen Bell loves sloths. And we mean LOVES sloths. We'll never forget the video she shared on Ellen revealing her obsession with the fuzzy creatures. Well, Kristen has just taken her sloth fascination to the next level by partnering with Williams-Sonoma on a sloth spatula ($13).
The adorable cooking utensil features a cartoon depiction of the animal on an oversize scooping and scraping head attached to a beechwood handle. And this ergonomically shaped spatula is more than handy; it's also a do-gooder: 30 percent of the retail price benefits No Kid Hungry's campaign to end childhood hunger in America. In fact, a bevy of other celebrities designed unique spatulas for the charitable collection as well. Cooking just got a lot better in every way!
Source: Williams Sonoma
This Creepy, Clever Taylor Swift Costume Is Absolutely Perfect For Halloween
Is there any Taylor Swift moment more suitable for Halloween than Zombie Taylor Swift? The singer returned to the music scene with a bang in August when she dropped "Look What You Made Me Do," the first single off her upcoming album Reputation. The record-smashing music video opens with a look at her "Out of the Woods" self as a zombie who quite literally buries "old Taylor." With the creepy makeup and the muddy dress, it's the perfect way to channel Taylor Swift for Halloween.
How to Create It Yourself
Hoping to bring Taylor Swift to life - er, death - for Halloween? Here's what you'll need:
- Light blue dress
- Zombie face makeup
- Dark lipstick
- A short blond wig
Slip on your blue dress, and while you're busy perfecting your zombie-inspired makeup look, brush some darker shades across your arms and into your blond wig for that crawling-through-the-mud effect. Of course, you'll need the perfect soundtrack while you get ready, so bonus points if you can blast "Look What You Made Me Do" to really channel Taylor.
Check out the rest of our Top 10 Halloween Costumes For 2017!
1 Dad's Hilarious Shopping Hack Will Make Your Kids "Think Twice Before Picking Up a Bunch of Stuff"
"when you shop for your kids make them carry their bags, they'll think twice before picking up a bunch of stuff next time" http://pic.twitter.com/Bp0FTE4eSt
- Chad Johnson (@ochocinco) October 5, 2017
I've grown to hate shopping with my kids. What starts out as a quick errand rapidly devolves into me negotiating with a tiny human as to why we don't need seven whole pineapples and an economy-size box of plastic spoons. By the time we hit the checkout counter, I'm at my breaking point, but for one evil-genius dad, it's at that moment that a major lesson is about to be made.
Former NFL player Chad Johnson revealed on Twitter the perfect shopping hack to keep children from demanding too many things at the store: "When you shop for your kids make them carry their bags. They'll think twice before picking up a bunch of stuff next time."
Alongside his tweet was a video of his adorable toddler daughter Kennedi exiting a Foot Locker with two packed plastic bags on each arm. She makes her way out of the store but doesn't last much longer than that. When Chad threatens to return her purchases ("I got the receipt!"), she readjusts and carries on . . . for now.
So, will Chad's trick work?
Judging by Kennedi's resolve and based on the relatively 30-second-long attention span of most toddlers, I'm not holding my breath. But it sure will be fun to watch my kid drag four bags of pointy fruit through the grocery store parking lot!
Get Strong, Defined Arms With This 100-Rep Arm Workout
Ten moves. 10 reps each. Sounds simple enough, but man, your arms will be toast after completing 100 reps without a rest. Modify this workout to fit your ability level by using two- to 10-pound dumbbells. Use the same size dumbbell for all 10 exercises (I used eight-pounders), or switch between lighter and heavier weights depending on the move. If this is still too hard, do five reps for each move instead of 10.
Young Sheldon: What to Know About The Big Bang Theory's New Spinoff
We've gotten to know and love Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory, but we're about to see a whole new side of the character. CBS has a new series coming this Fall called Young Sheldon, which, as you may have guessed, is all about Sheldon's childhood as a boy genius. While The Big Bang Theory is firmly a sitcom, the trailer for Young Sheldon makes the series look more thoughtful than your run-of-the-mill, laugh-track-enhanced comedy. Here's what we know about the series so far!
The Cast
Iain Armitage, who you may recognize as Jane's son in Big Little Lies, is playing the title role. Zoe Perry is starring as his mother, Mary Cooper. Coincidentally, Perry is the real-life daughter of Laurie Metcalf, who has played Sheldon's mother on The Big Bang Theory since 2007. Here is the rest of Young Sheldon's cast.
The Trailer
The Premiere Date
Young Sheldon is coming to CBS on Oct. 27. The 30-minute comedy will air right after The Big Bang Theory on Thursday nights.
Take a look at all of the new shows coming to primetime this Fall!
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.
13 European Cities 30-Somethings Will Love
Looking for something a little different for your next trip away with your friends? If you want to go beyond the usual hotspots, Europe is full of cities that deliver a decent dose of culture but also have the requisite food, fun, and photo opportunities. If you and your favorite ladies spent your 20s downing cocktails in NYC, partying hard in Vegas, and earning your beads in New Orleans, you may fancy a change of pace now that you're in your 30s. And if you've always been an old soul, these cities have plenty of quiet places to escape to. Pamper yourself at a thermal spa in Budapest, shop till you drop in Florence, gorge on chocolate in Bruges, or live that Game of Thrones life in Dubrovnik. These are the cities to add to your 30-something bucket list!
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