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
Cara Delevingne Suits Every Single Hairstyle, and Here's the Proof
Cara Delevingne is many things: super successful model, budding actress, social media hero, and owner of fantastic hair at all times.
Recently we've seen Cara's hair take many forms, whether it be that Instagram-worthy blonde lob, the dramatic shaved head, and even her memorable Met Gala look, which featured silver paint dripping from her mane. She rocks every single one of them with ease. Not only does she have incredible hair, she has also shared some empowering words about societal beauty standards. Cara confessed that it's "exhausting to be told what beauty should look like" and is a role model for those who chose to define beauty on their own terms. So next time you want to paint your hair silver and worry for a second that you might not look "beautiful", take a tip from Cara and do it anyway.
Keep reading to see Cara's best hair moments, and don't be surprised if the thought of shaving your head suddenly seems like a good idea.
Is This Trendy Diet the New Mediterranean Diet?
You can't turn on the TV or open a magazine these days without being bombarded by the miraculous health benefits of the latest dieting fad. Most of these diets are not only ridiculous (I'm looking at you, Hollywood Cookie Diet), they also aren't sustainable. For a new way of eating to truly transform your health, it has to be something you can stick with; something that becomes your new way of life. Nobody can eat cereal or drink chalky shakes for two meals a day for the rest of their life - not happily, anyway.
In my experience as a nutritionist, the diets that actually help people get healthy and stay healthy are those that still allow you to choose from a wide variety of foods and are made up of mostly real, whole foods. There is a relatively new diet making the rounds, called the New Nordic Diet, that fits both of these criteria and looks pretty dang tasty, to boot.
What Is the New Nordic Diet?
The New Nordic Diet is rooted in the foods commonly eaten by people in Nordic countries like Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. According to University of California, Berkeley, the diet was originally established in 2004 by a team of nutrition professionals and local chefs with the goal of improving the eating habits of people in the region.
What Do You Eat on the New Nordic Diet?
Similar to the Mediterranean diet, the New Nordic Diet is all about fresh, whole foods: whole grains, seafood, meat, root veggies, dark leafy greens, low-fat dairy, and a variety of fruits. Here is a more detailed breakdown with a few examples:
- Eggs
- Seafood: salmon, herring, mackerel, tuna, trout, white fish
- Meat: poultry, wild game
- Root vegetables: onions, potatoes, leeks, carrots
- Leafy greens: cabbage, broccoli, kale
- Berries and fruits: blueberries, lingonberries, bilberries, apples, plums
- Dairy: cheese, milk, low-fat yogurt
- Whole grains: rye, barley, oats
- Fats: canola oil, nuts, seeds
Is It Healthy?
Just a quick glance will show you that red meat, soda, sugar, and other heavily processed foods are nowhere to be seen on the New Nordic Diet. That gets a big "two thumbs up" from this nutritionist. Most of us rely too heavily on fast food, sugary drinks, and grab-and-go snacks like cookies and crackers.
The New Nordic Diet also emphasizes a wide range of fruits and veggies, whole grains over refined, and lean meats over fattier cuts. Fruits and vegetables provide a powerful source of antioxidants; lean meats, seafood, and dairy pack protein; and whole grains give you fiber and energy-boosting carbohydrates.
Studies have shown that the New Nordic Diet can improve cholesterol and blood pressure levels. And, without restricting calories or portion sizes, it may help you lose a few pounds.
My only true hangup with this diet is that it calls for canola oil, made from rapeseed, over other known-to-be-healthy fats like olive and coconut oil. Canola oil made in the US is often chemically extracted, as opposed to the more natural extraction methods used to make extra virgin olive oil and unrefined coconut oil. The health factor of oils is best determined by the quality of the plants they come from (organic and non-GMO) and how natural the extraction process is. In Nordic countries, and possibly in the US if you know where to look, there are cold-pressed canola oils that seem to be of better quality than those available on most grocery store shelves.
Need a Few Ideas to Get Started?
One thing I love about this diet is that it doesn't have to be complicated. Breakfast can be oatmeal with fruit and nuts, lunch can be a salmon salad with loads of fresh veggies, and dinner can be roast chicken and potatoes. Need a snack? Stir mixed berries into plain yogurt or top a slice of rye bread with a little almond butter. Mmmm . . . sounds like a diet I could dig right into.
1 Mom Explained Why Breastfeeding Is "the Greatest Thing She Ever Hated"
We know we don't have to tell you breastfeeding can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. One mom used an emotional Facebook post to explain all of the difficulties she had to go through, both physically and mentally, to breastfeed her son until his first birthday.
The anonymous writer described how friends and family tried to sway her away from breastfeeding for a full year, citing reasons like her son's teeth coming in and even comparing her to her sister-in-law. "'OK, he's got a tooth, time to stop,' 'You'll be breastfeeding him at 20.'" [They told] me I'm psychologically damaging him. [They told] me this doesn't foster independence and just about every thing you can think of. I was compared to other women. 'Your SIL only did it for 4 months.'"
On top of the pressure she was getting from other people in her circle, the mother of two explained pumping was no walk in the park for her, either. But she was determined to make it to her son's first birthday. "After about 3-and-a-half months we got it down but until then I was tied to a pump thinking of quitting. I was told no one wanted to see the baby unless I covered up. I was told in MY HOME to go to another room to pump."
Nothing could deter her determination, even as she approached his birthday and wondered if her relationship would completely change as her son grew. "I thought [his first birthday] would be a bigger deal. Cried myself to sleep. But the morning came and he still smells like magic. He looks the same. Same reddish hair. Same dreamy blue eyes. Same milk dribbles on his chin. Sleeping away."
The biggest takeaway came just after that moment. As she realized her bond was worth all the criticism she battled: "I am so terrified that one day we won't have this anymore. It's the greatest thing I've ever hated. But I will certainly grieve when its over! Because of mornings like this." Amen to that.
The 10 Top-Rated Liquid Eyeliners on the Internet - Starting at $3
Discovering a good liquid eyeliner is like finding a needle in a haystack - it seems impossible, but it can definitely be done. The key is to test a variety of options in order to figure out what's most important to you. There are a few things we look for when we dub an eyeliner purchase-worthy: the opaqueness, the color, the staying power, and the quality of the applicator you apply it with. If we're satisfied with all four of these attributes, it's a true gem. Let's be real: nobody likes a smudged, faded cat eye. If you need some guidance on what to try, we rounded up the highest-rated options from our favorite stores like Ulta, Sephora, Nordstrom, and Walgreens. Find out why these options will leave makeup mavens beyond pleased.
The Insanely Simple, Straightforward Tip That Helps Me Stay Active
Sometimes, getting motivated can be as easy as changing your outfit. That's the lesson I learned from one of my most active, put-together friends a few years ago when we were talking about how in the world she stays in shape. She's the type of person who manages to keep up a wildly busy schedule while also eating well, maintaining a spotless house, and working out regularly, so when I asked for the secret behind her endless energy, I couldn't believe how simple and straightforward her advice turned out to be.
Put on sneakers, she said. Keep a pair by the door, and when you get home from work, put them on right away - before you can be lured in by your cozy couch or make your way to the stocked fridge. You'll find yourself moving around a bit more, she said, whether that means cleaning up around the house, doing some chores, or deciding to toss on shorts and a t-shirt to head to the gym.
I was skeptical, and I knew there was obviously more to it than a pair of sneakers. Still, I decided to give it a try.
After a couple weeks, I was sold. And listen, I'm not going to say the tip changed my life, but it . . . sort of did? That split-second decision to put on sneakers seemed to trigger a let's-get-sh*t-done kind of energy, and the conscious choice to move around - rather than plopping in front of the TV or grabbing a snack - made me much more active each day. I found myself checking things off my to-do list left and right, whether it was organizing a closet or cooking healthy meals or staying on top of the laundry pile. When I woke up on weekend mornings feeling particularly lazy, I'd force myself to put on my sneakers and I'd feel guilty if I didn't get moving.
Even better: I found myself choosing to work out way more frequently. It's as if putting on sneakers after work channeled the days of throwing on my soccer uniform after school. Once the shoes were on, I'd get a weird, surprising burst of energy (or a clearer focus?) that prompted me to finish changing clothes and go for a run, try an online workout, or head to the gym. In other words, it worked.
Her tip fell along the same lines as laying out your workout clothes the night before. Something about taking that first, small step helps to spark the next step and the next, until you eventually find yourself running around the house to finish chores or sweating it out on the treadmill. Either way, it gets you moving and feeling positive, and every little bit helps, right?
The Poltergeist Curse: Here's the Real Story Behind the Movie Myth
It's the spookiest month of the year, and you know what that means! It's time to figure out whether you believe in curses or simply unfortunate coincidences. A reboot of the classic 1982 horror film Poltergeist came out in 2015, but let's be honest: nothing could compare to the original. While no horrific accidents occurred on the set of the new film (that we know of, anyway), the release reminded us of the rumors of a curse on the original film trilogy's cast. The movie revolves around a suburban family who move into a new home and begin to notice strange things surrounding their young daughter. Take a look below to find out about the mysterious events that have made people speculate that Poltergeist may be the most cursed franchise in Hollywood.
The Whole Ordeal Began With Human Skeletons
One of the most famous scenes features JoBeth Williams's character, Diane, falling into the family's pool, and it's filled with skeletons. You might not know that those skeletons are actually real - the actors sure didn't. "In my innocence and naiveté, I assumed that these were not real skeletons," Williams said in an interview for TV Land (below). "I assumed that they were prop skeletons made out of plastic or rubber . . . I found out, as did the crew, that they were using real skeletons, because it's far too expensive to make fake skeletons out of rubber."
Months After the Release of the First Film, a Star Was Murdered
Poltergeist was released in June 1982, and in November of that year, 22-year-old Dominique Dunne, who played Dana (the family's older daughter), was murdered. Dunne was brutally strangled in her own driveway by her abusive ex-boyfriend and was removed from life support five days later.
An Exorcism Was Performed on the Set of the Sequel
Concerned about the use of real skeletons on the set of the first film, Native American actor and Poltergeist II: The Other Side star Will Sampson performed an exorcism on the set of the second film in 1984. According to Williams, he went to the set late at night by himself to do it. The next day, the cast supposedly felt relieved.
Two More Cast Members Died Within a Couple Years of the Sequel
Julian Beck, who starred as Kane in Poltergeist II: The Other Side, died of stomach cancer at age 60. He was diagnosed before he accepted the role, and he passed away in September 1985, months before the film even came out in theaters. In June 1987, Will Sampson, the actor who performed the exorcism, died of malnutrition and postoperative kidney failure at age 53. While their deaths may not seem so unusual, some fans still believe they're connected to the curse.
Poltergeist's Young Star Died at 12
The untimely passing of Poltergeist's iconic young star is perhaps the most convincing case for a curse. Heather O'Rourke (aka Carol Anne, who said the famous line, "They're heeere") was incredibly young when she died of cardiac arrest and septic shock caused by a misdiagnosed intestinal issue. She died in February 1988 at 12, several months before the release of Poltergeist III, the final chapter in the original series.
One Cast Member Barely Escaped Death
Richard Lawson was aboard USAir Flight 405 when it crashed into Flushing Bay in March 1992. A total of 27 people (out of the 51 on board) were killed. Lawson survived, but the event is yet another reason people claim the movie is cursed.
In 2009, a Cast Member Was Brutally Murdered
Lou Perryman played the small role of Pugsley in the original film. He was 67 years old when a recently released ex-convict killed him in his own home with an ax.
What do you think - is it a curse, or simply a series of terrible events?
The 7 Best Vegan Items From Trader Joe's, According to an Employee
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
We came across a very exciting, vegan-focused "Ask Me Anything" this morning: the Reddit "I Work at Trader Joe's AMA," in which the Reddit user and Trader Joe's employee AyeAyeMatee (very much on theme with the Trader Joe's nautical and tropical vibes) identified as vegan and noted that they've "worked at Trader Joe's for a few years now" and have answers to "everyone's questions about the infamous grocery store!"
While we have our own favorite vegan foods at Trader Joe's, we were excited to hear what an insider thinks of the offerings. Here are the picks that the employee lists as their favorite foods:
- Frozen Vegetable Fried Rice . . . The post led with the OP's favorite frozen food: the vegetable fried rice. It's one of our favorites, too!
- . . . with the Green Dragon Hot Sauce. The fried rice dish just wouldn't be complete without a (totally plant-based) delicious hot sauce. The Green Dragon from TJ's is not only a crowd favorite, but an employee favorite as well.
- Strawberry Chia Smoothie Drink. The Trader Joe's employee listed the Strawberry Chia Smoothie as one of their favorites, and it sounds so delicious!
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Erin Cullum
- Gelatin-Free Marshmallows. "The marshmallows are the best!" said the TJ's employee. "Most marshmallows that are marketed 'vegan' are very expensive, at least $5 a bag, and TJs are around $1.99-2.99."
- Peanut Butter Pretzels. A Reddit user noted that the Trader Joe's PB pretzels were a great vegan option, and the employee concurred. "Peanut butter pretzels are great too! If you haven't tried the gluten-free pretzels, they are my favorite type of pretzel now! They're so crunchy!"
- Speculoos Cookies In need of a dairy-free, egg-free sweet treat? The Speculoos Cookies are fantastic, even if you're not vegan.
- Sriracha Chips. Not necessarily a health food, but a delicious vegan snack nonetheless!
13 Iconic Horror Movies Inspired by Real-Life Events
Any horror fan knows that there's one phrase that will make any scary movie twice as terrifying: "Inspired by true events." It's a tricky phrase, because we often don't know what the original "events" are, and we can't get a sense of how "inspired" the filmmakers were. The halls of horror history are littered with disturbing movies and a handful of potential new classics. But the truth is harder to find. To help give your nightmares a little more weight, we dug into a handful of the most iconic horror movies, and the "true" events that "inspired" them.
New Honey Research Suggests a Grim Outcome For Bees Worldwide
Just when we thought things were finally looking up for the bee population, researchers have delivered some disheartening - and frightening - news. Swiss researchers recently published a study indicating that a large majority of the world's bee population is affected by a common (yet controversial) pesticide, which has contributed to the alarming decline in honeybee populations.
After collecting honey from all around the world, researchers from University of Neuchatel discovered that 75 percent of samples were contaminated with traces of neonicotinoid (neonic) insecticides - even from areas of the world with bans on the pesticide.
"Results varied by region," reports the Associated Press's science division of the startling findings. "In North America, 86 percent of samples had the pesticide; Asia, 80 percent; Europe, where there's a partial ban, 79 percent; Africa 73 percent; the Australian region, 71 percent and South America, 57 percent."
"The study found that nearly half of the honey samples exceeded a level of the pesticide that some previous research said weakens bees," asserted the report, adding: "But the pesticide makers say otherwise." And indeed, spokespeople from multiple pesticide manufacturers refuted the study's claim that these levels would affect bee populations, and researchers from other institutions questioned the study's sweeping claims about neonics.
But considering that declining bee populations have already led to "honey laundering" - the sale of tainted honey - in the culinary world, the implication of these study findings should give anybody with a sweet tooth pause.
There's a Very Good Reason American Horror Story Might Delay Next Week's Episode
American Horror Story, and by extension Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, has never been afraid of tackling gruesome, all-too-relevant subject matters like rape and murder. For instance, in the anthology show's debut season, troubled teenager Tate (Evan Peters) shoots a large number of his classmates dead in disturbing scenes inspired by 1999's Columbine High School massacre. While season seven's focus might be its roving gang of killer clowns, the season's sixth episode, "Mid-Western Assassin" - set to air next Tuesday - will also depict a mass shooting, this time at a political rally. Given what happened at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas on Sept. 30, many are wondering whether or not the new episode will be delayed.
It's a heartbreaking coincidence, to be sure, but it's not the first time TV has been eerily reminiscent of real-life tragedies. An episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer showing a student planning a mass shooting of his high school ("Earshot") had to be delayed for months in 1999 after Columbine (it was originally set to air just a week after the shooting happened), and USA's drama Shooter pushed back its premiere date twice because of shootings in real life. The same goes for other USA drama Mr. Robot, which had its first season finale postponed following the horrific on-camera deaths of TV reporter Alison Parker and cameraman Adam Ward in 2015 (an event that coincidentally AHS: Cult seemed to re-create in episode four with Emma Roberts's character).
Cult follows a psychotic, charismatic Donald Trump supporter who quickly amasses a group of homicidal followers in the aftermath of the 2016 election and has featured brutal murders via nail gun and butcher knives. There's no official word on whether or not the episode will be pulled, and FX and 20th Century Fox have declined to comment on the matter.
The Disney Channel Halloween Episode That Scarred Me For Life
When it comes to scary movies, I have a very low tolerance. While all of my friends were watching horror hits like Saw and The Ring, I was sitting safely at home watching the Disney Channel. Even though shows like The Suite Life of Zack & Cody brought me a lot of laughs during my childhood (not to mention jump-started my longtime crushes on Cole and Dylan Sprouse), there was one episode in particular that left me completely scarred.
If you watched the hit series when you were younger, you probably have a good idea of what I'm getting at. Yes, the dreaded Halloween-themed episode, "The Ghost of Suite 613." The storyline of a haunted hotel room was enough to spook out 13-year-old me (like I said, I have a very low scare tolerance), but the scene where Esteban gets possessed really sent me over the edge. Now that it's October, it feels like the perfect opportunity to relive my childhood nightmares and recall the best (or should I say worst?) moments of the episode.
This Pumpkin Spice Latte-Lover Ate PS-Flavored Foods For 48 Hours
Candace Lowry is a self-proclaimed pumpkin spice latte fanatic, but even she couldn't prepare herself for the pumpkin spice challenge. Only pumpkin-spice-flavored foods for 48 hours? Should be easy, right?
Are Sugar Substitutes Really Healthier Than White Sugar?
If you're trying to lose weight, limiting refined white sugar is a step in the right direction: one cup contains 774 calories and 200 grams of sugar. But when you're craving a chocolate chip cookie, you want it to taste like Grandma's - not like a dull, tasteless cracker. There are many all-natural sugar substitutes, but are they really healthier than refined white? Check out the details below.
Agave Nectar (also called agave syrup)
Replace 2/3 cup for every one cup of sugar
449 calories, 100.3 grams sugar
- How it's made: Produced from the same spiky plant as tequila. Once the blue agave plant reaches seven to 10 years old, the leaves are removed revealing the core of the plant called the pina. Sap is extracted from the pina, filtered, and heated at a low temp to break down the carbohydrates into sugars.
- Additional info: Lower on the glycemic index, it offers sweetness without the spike in your blood sugar levels. However, like white sugar, most agave syrup is highly processed.
- Baking tips: Since it is a syrup, you'll need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by one-quarter cup. Combine agave with the liquid or fats in your recipe before adding to the dry ingredients in order to prevent oil from layering on top. Since agave browns faster, lower the oven temp by 25 degrees, and because it can be a little sticky, you might want to line your pan with parchment paper.
Blackstrap Molasses
Replace 1 1/3 cup for every one cup of sugar
1,002 calories, 259 grams sugar
- How it's made: During the sugar-making process, juice extracted from sugar cane is boiled down until the sugars crystallize. The syrup left over after crystallization is known as molasses. Sugar cane juice usually undergoes three cycles of boiling and blackstrap molasses is the by-product of the third boiling cycle. This variety of molasses contains the least amount of sugar and has the highest concentration of vitamins and minerals.
- Additional info: Blackstrap molasses is rich in nutrients; one cup contains more than the RDA of calcium, potassium, and iron. It's also full of copper and B vitamins, which helps eliminate cancer-causing free radicals.
- Baking tips: With such a distinct, robust flavor, molasses is best saved for spiced breads and cookies. Since it's acidic, add half a teaspoon of baking soda to the recipe if it's not already used, and reduce the liquid in the recipe by one-third cup.
Honey
Replace 3/4 cup for every one cup of sugar
773 calories, 209 grams sugar
- How it's made: Bees gather nectar from flowers, and spread it throughout the honeycombs in the hive where it evaporates and turns into a thick syrup, which is used to feed the colony.
- Additional info: It offers 132 mg of potassium and may help reduce sore throats. Raw honey is rich in B vitamins and also vitamin C.
- Baking tips: Decrease the liquid in your recipe by one-fifth, and lower the baking temp by 25 degrees to prevent browning.
Maple Syrup
Replace 3/4 cup for every one cup of sugar
600 calories, 159 grams sugar
- How it's made: Sap is collected from maple trees, boiled to evaporate the water, and the syrup is then filtered and bottled. It takes between 35 and 50 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of real maple syrup.
- Additional info: A one-cup serving offers 180 mg of calcium, and also contains manganese, iron, and zinc, important minerals for a strong immune system; it also contains 322 mg of omega-6 fatty acids.
- Baking tips: Always use real maple syrup - not maple flavored. Reduce the amount of liquid in recipes by three tablespoons for each cup of maple syrup used. Baked goods will have a brownish tint and also brown much faster so bake for less time or lower the temp of the oven by 25 degrees.
Raw Cane Sugar (evaporated cane sugar)
Replace one cup for every one cup of sugar
758 calories, 202 grams sugar
- How it's made: Freshly cut sugar cane is crushed to extract the juice. Then the cane juice is heated to evaporate the water, and then spun in a centrifuge to produce crystals that are golden-colored due to the fact that the molasses is not removed.
- Additional info: Also know as demerara or turbinado sugar, it's less refined than white sugar though it is not any better from a nutritional standpoint; although it contains some molasses, it's too small an amount to really offer the health benefits that molasses does.
- Baking tips: Since the crystals can be larger than regular sugar (depending on the brand), you might want to dissolve it in the liquids or beat it in with the eggs to ensure a smooth texture.
Stevia (Pyure Bakeable Blend)
Replace 1/2 cup for every one cup of sugar
0 calories, 0 grams sugar
- How it's made: Glycosides are the components of stevia leaves responsible for the plant's sweetness. The leaves are placed in hot water, which is passed through a resin material to trap and collect the glycosides. The resin is then washed with alcohol to free the glycosides, and is then crystallized into the form you buy.
- Additional info: Some research shows it can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Since it's calorie-free it's helpful for weight management.
- Baking tips: Reduce pan size and baking temp by 25 percent, add an additional egg white or slightly increase baking powder/soda, and add fruit puree or yogurt for moistness.
Sucanat
Replace one cup for every one cup of sugar
570 calories, 135 grams sugar
- How it's made: Whole sugar cane is juiced and that liquid is heated in a large vat until it becomes a rich, dark syrup. It's then crystallized, creating dry, porous, dark-brown granules.
- Additional info: Unlike refined white sugar, Sucanat contains iron, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, potassium, and chromium.
- Baking tips: Very similar to baking with sugar, since it has a brownish color and tastes like warm molasses, it's best used to replace brown sugar.
I Did 100 Burpees a Day For 2 Weeks and This Is What Happened
I was used to suffering through burpees during CrossFit classes, but one day I showed up and the WOD (workout of the day) was 100 burpees for time. I thought my coach was joking. I mean, I've definitely done over 100 burpees in a workout before, but that was broken up by other exercises. Thirty was probably the most I had done at one time, so 100?! WTH. And I pay for this?!
But I did it. And I didn't die! It took me over 10 minutes and by the end I collapsed to the floor, heart racing, panting, and muscles burning, but so proud. I thought that if I did this 10-minute workout every day, it'd be a quick way to get in a little extra much-needed cardio, build my endurance, get stronger, and burn some bonus calories.
So I committed to 100 burpees a day for two weeks. My rule was that they had to be 100 consecutive burpees, so even if I did burpees in my CrossFit class that morning, they didn't count toward the 100. I wrote down the numbers one through 10 in my fitness journal, started the timer, and every time I did 10 burpees, I'd cross off a number. It made counting them easier and also gave me a little break in-between. I even got my kids help me count!
My goal was to get them done in under 10 minutes and to see how fast I could do them. After two weeks, this is what happened:
- Burpees got easier: Those first few days were a struggle. I was taking a lot of breaks and getting so exhausted that I had to step my feet forward instead of jumping. But by the second week, my arms and core got stronger and my movements became more fluid. And when we did variations of burpees in class, like box jump burpees or bar-facing burpees (where you jump over a barbell), those felt easier, too.
- I got faster: I realized that if I did 10 burpees per minute, I'd finish in about 10 minutes, so that pushed me to do 11 or 12 per minute (at least for the first 50). My initial time of just over 10 minutes turned into 9:30, and one time I was able to do it in 9:13! So practicing burpees actually works.
- It was mostly mental: By the 40th burpee, I was feeling so winded and fatigued (and questioning why the hell I decided to subject myself to this torture!), and my brain kept saying, "Just stop!" I learned to shut out those thoughts, to ignore how uncomfortable my body was feeling, and to focus on counting and get through it.
- I felt awesome the rest of the day: After getting home from my 5:45 a.m. CrossFit class, before hopping in the shower, I did those 100 burpees. Every single day I reached 100 felt like such a huge accomplishment; I felt so proud and happy, and it really set the tone for my day.
- I started to hate burpees: By the end of that second week, I was so glad this little experiment of mine was almost over. I was one of those weird people who didn't mind doing burpees, but after 14 days of forcing myself to do so many, I would cringe when I saw them in a WOD. This is when I knew it was time to stop.
Overall, this little challenge was definitely worth it for all the benefits, but I think maybe next time I'd just choose 50 burpees instead. That seems way more doable and like something I could keep up with for more than two weeks. But if I ever can't get in some exercise while on vacation or just because of life, I know I could always take 10 minutes to do 100 burpees and get in an awesome, quick workout! If doing this many burpees at one time seems completely insane, here's a four-week workout plan to build up to 100 burpees.
20 Things You've Been Doing Wrong in the Kitchen Your Entire Life
Are you scrambling eggs, making chocolate chip cookies, and measuring pasta the right way? It might not seem obvious, but there are plenty of basic things you could be doing the "wrong" way in the kitchen. These 20 hacks will make you a serious cooking pro if you're not already. Keep reading to learn every cooking shortcut and tip that will save you time, stress, and sanity in the kitchen.
21 Trick-or-Treat Bags Your Kid Can Fill With Candy Year After Year
If like me, you went around on Halloween to collect candy in a pillowcase straight off your bed, you know that it's a completely impractical idea because you too-late realize how weighed down and hard to hold it is when full of sugary treats. To keep your kids from suffering the same trick-or-treating fate of dead arms and spilled candies, we rounded up a bunch of reusable treat bags that your kid can fill to the brim year after year (and their pillowcases will be waiting patiently on their beds, ready to catch their heads as they fall into their Halloween sugar comas).
Scroll through for 21 adorable - and spooky - treat bags, buckets, and totes.
10 Ways Being a Parent Is the Exact Same as Being the Designated Driver
It's a running joke that babies act like they're drunk all the time - they can't walk a straight line, they speak in gibberish, and they will fall asleep literally anywhere.
But if they are drunk, what does that make us? Turns out, parenthood is nearly identical to picking the short straw and being labeled the designated driver for the evening. That's right: you have to stay stone sober so you can make sure your little drunk "friend" doesn't do anything stupid.
Don't see the connection? Keep reading, and all will become painfully clear.
9 Cult Classic Horror Movies to Stream on Netflix
As soon as the first Fall chill can be felt in the air, the hysteria of Halloween is never far behind. Year after year, while new horror movies in theaters try to move in and terrify us to our cores, there are some cult classics that will never go out of style. Here are a few creepy cult classics to stream to fill your October with lots of blood - and hopefully very little buffering.
Vegan Halloween Candy You Can Make in Less Time Than Your Costume
Halloween comes with many traditions, from the careful selection of your costume to carving the perfect pumpkin. Then there's the ever-loved excuse of indulging in more than our fair share of Halloween candy. However, these treats are often filled with heaps of refined sugar, chemical additives, gelatin, and allergy-causing ingredients. Whether you're looking for options with natural ingredients or ones that are vegan friendly, we've got you covered with these 13 vegan alternatives to your Halloween favorites. With each one of these recipes clocking in at fewer than 10 ingredients, grab your food processor and enjoy these wholesome treats this Halloween season!
We Need to Talk About the Questionable "Science" Behind the 20-Week Abortion Ban Bill
The GOP's seemingly endless quest to shred women's reproductive rights hit yet another milestone on Oct. 3: that's when the House once again passed the infamous 20-week abortion ban bill, which was initially rubber-stamped in 2015 but which failed to pass the Senate. Known as the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, the controversial bill aims to make the abortion of a fetus 20 weeks or older a criminal act, with the only exceptions being cases involving rape or incest or when the mother's life is at risk.
Championed by republican Arizona Rep. Trent Franks and supported by the current White House, the anti-choice bill is largely based on one highly suspect basis that nearly all scientific experts dispute: that a fetus can experience the sensation of pain at the 20-week gestation period. The Journal of the American Medical Association published findings that showed fetuses likely cannot experience pain until the third trimester, when the necessary nervous system components (like thalamocortical pathways) form - which usually takes place around the 29-week mark. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists agrees with these findings, as do countless other reputable medical experts.
Our best evidence indicates a fetus cannot perceive pain until the third trimester, 26 weeks, not 20-weeks.https://t.co/kXkTkvb5jM
- Dr. Daniel Grossman (@DrDGrossman) October 3, 2017
Another dubious point made by anti-choice supporters in furtherance of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act is that a fetus's reflexive motions are proof of their ability to experience pain. Conservative legislators have pointed specifically to a fetus's "recoiling" motions while in-utero as evidence that fetuses react similarly to adult humans when experiencing pain. Again, the Journal of the American Medical Association explained that this recoiling motion is nothing more than an involuntary movement that is unassociated with the sensation of pain or discomfort. According to FactCheck.org, the JAMA also wrote that infants who are born with a condition that causes them to lack the part of the brain necessary for experiencing pain will still display this same reflexive motion.
Though it's highly unlikely that the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act will be able to garner enough votes in the Senate to make it to the president's desk, the national conversation that's taken place as a result of the misinformation spread as a result of the bill is still cause for serious alarm. The spreading of "junk science" that claims fetuses can experience pain will undoubtedly make the already complicated decision-making process women go through to get adequate abortion care that much more difficult to navigate.
If you're interested in offering your representatives your thoughts on this bill's dissemination of falsities designed to induce guilt and confusion, you can find out how to contact them here. Because American women deserve to get the safe, affordable care they need - reproductive care included.
31 Insanely Ingenious DIY Costumes For BFFs
While dressing up with your best friend is always a good idea, making your own costumes allows for you to flaunt your glorious friendship. Also your inventive creativity and enviable craft skills will shine through. We've rounded up our favorite DIY costumes that let people know, yes, you most certainly do know your way around Michaels.
22 Unique Gifts That Will Leave Recipients Saying, "Wow, You're So Thoughtful!"
When you're buying a gift for somebody you care about, don't go the generic route. The best way to show someone you put thought into a present is by finding something unique to give them. There are so many innovative products out there that will blow your mind. Whether the recipient is a techie, couch potato, world traveler, kitchen connoisseur, or avid reader, we've got items that will thrill them. These gifts are perfect for holidays and birthdays, plus they work for all ages. Basically, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. Get to shopping now so you're prepared!
Time to Plan a Trip, Because Sephora Is Offering Crazy-Cheap Minisets
We hope you have some vacation days saved up, because Sephora's latest sale will make you want to take a trip. From now until Nov. 1, the store is offering select minikits and products for $25 or less. We all know that holiday travel is just around the corner, so you'll probably want to stock up on beauty essentials to make your plane, train, and/or automobile rides totally luxurious. Read on to see everything that is discounted right now.
These Are the 10 Hottest Fall 2017 Haircuts, According to Celebrity Stylists
From Rapunzel-length locks with razored ends worn by Kim Kardashian to a modern-day rockstar pixie à la Janelle Monáe, the name of the game for Fall 2017 haircuts is spontaneity and playfulness. To help you get started on your Fall lewk, we interviewed some of the industry's top celebrity hairstylists to get the scoop on the season's hottest haircut trends. They also shared styling tips for each and gave expert advice on which looks suit you best. Book that salon appointment - it's time for a good old-fashioned makeover story.
Of Course Sarah Paulson Is the First Cast Member to Join American Horror Story Season 8
American Horror Story: Cult still has many mysteries to unravel, but lest we forget, there are already two more seasons of American Horror Story that have been greenlit. While not much is known about season eight, we do know one thing: its first cast member. Fittingly, it's Sarah Paulson, who was recently profiled in AdWeek, where it's casually mentioned that she has season eight to look forward to in 2018. It's reported that she will also appear in three movies next year, in addition to working on the currently theme-less eighth season: films Ocean's Eight, The Post, and Glass.
The Trailer For the New Hey Arnold! Movie Will Give '90s Kids the BEST Flashbacks
How's this for a trip down memory lane? Nickelodeon just dropped the trailer for its upcoming Hey Arnold!: The Jungle Movie, and it looks like it'll give '90s kids exactly the sort of closure we need for our favorite cartoon! According to a Nick press release, the film will pick up where the original TV series (which ran from 1996-2004) left off when it hits the small screen this Fall, following Arnold and crew on a search for his missing parents in South America.
The trailer includes everything we've missed about the show, including Helga's secret Arnold shrine and Abner, Arnold's loyal pet pig. Give it a watch, then check out these details about the movie - you know you can't resist tuning in for nostalgia's sake!
When does the movie premiere?
Instead of going Black Friday shopping this Thanksgiving, you'll want to stay home and watch Nickelodeon; Hey Arnold!: The Jungle Movie debuts at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24.
Is the original cast and crew involved?
Yes! Craig Bartlett, the show's creator, cowrote and is producing the movie, and most of the original cast is returning. While the original voices for Arnold and Gerald aren't reprising their starring roles, they will appear as other characters in the movie. The original voice actors for Helga, Phoebe, Harold, Grandpa, Mr. Simmons, Big Patty, and many more will voice their original roles, so naturally our hearts are filled with nostalgic joy!
Will Stoop Kid leave his stoop?
Well, you'll just have to wait and see! But considering that the original Stoop Kid voice actor will be reprising his role for the film, we have high hopes.
Find Out Why Kate and Will Took Over Princess Diana's Former Apartment
Image Source: Getty / Jeff Spicer
Prince William and Kate Middleton may currently call their country house, Anmer Hall, home, but their official residence is apartment 1A inside London's Kensington Palace, where Prince Harry also resides. The trio has even more claim in the historic royal residence, though, since they also use apartment 8 as their headquarters for official duties and charitable work. The renovated space, which has ample room for meetings and plenty of areas for entertaining, was Princess Diana's home until her death in 1997.
The working apartments are situated on the opposite side of the palace from apartment 1A, which was formerly Princess Margaret's living quarters. (We got a rare glimpse inside their private space when President Barack Obama and the first lady visited.) The location is ideally suited for Kate and Will, who will make the London apartment their primary residence in 2017, when Prince George attends Thomas's Battersea School in September. And of course for Harry, who conveniently lives just steps away.
Image Source: Shutterstock
What You Need to Know About Ryan Gosling's Blade Runner Love Interest, Ana de Armas
Image Source: Everett Collection
The long-awaited sequel to 1982's Blade Runner officially hits theaters on Oct. 6, and we could not be any more excited. Not only does Blade Runner 2049's storyline take place three decades after the events of the first film, but it also stars Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Jared Leto, Robin Wright, and rising star Ana de Armas. Armas stars as Joi, Gosling's (LAPD Officer K) love interest, and while Blade Runner 2049 may be her first major movie role, the 29-year-old Cuban actress has actually been busy building her résumé since 2006.
Armas has starred in a handful of Spanish TV shows and appeared in a number of films like Knock Knock, Hands of Stone, and War Dogs. In fact, that's one of the main reasons producers Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson cast her in the film. "We think Ana is one of the most exciting, up-and-coming international actors in the world today, and we are thrilled she will be playing such an important part in this sequel," they told The Hollywood Reporter in April 2016.
While not much else is known about her character in the sci-fi film, you'll be seeing more of Armas pretty soon. The actress was recently cast in Andrea Di Stefano's upcoming film, Three Seconds, which is based on the Swedish novel by Anders Roslund and Börge Hellström. Armas will star alongside Rosamund Pike, Common, and Clive Owen, and the action thriller is slated to hit theaters in 2018.
Image Source: Getty / Fotonoticias
How to Strengthen and Tone Your Stomach
Eating 80/20 and hitting the gym have helped you reach your weight-loss goal, but you're still trying to get rid of that little extra pooch around your midsection. Here are three things you can do every week to help you achieve a trimmer belly.
When Eating
Take an honest look at your diet and your bathroom schedule. Your belly might not be caused by fat but by air trapped in your digestive system. If you're not getting enough fiber (you need 25 to 30 grams a day), constipation can cause bloating. On the other hand, overdoing it on fiber or eating too many gas-producing foods like broccoli, apples, or beans can also make your belly pooch a bit. Thankfully, there are also foods you can eat, like blueberries, that are proven to diminish belly fat, so sip on this flat-belly smoothie or crunch on this flat-belly salad to keep you regular and help you debloat.
When Doing Cardio
Studies show that including interval training in your cardio sessions is proven to diminish belly fat. If you find that you normally stick to a consistent pace when running, biking, or swimming, mix it up by adding 10- to 60-second fast-paced or sprinting intervals - here's a 45-minute treadmill workout that does just that. High Intensity Interval Training (aka HIIT) works on the same principle as intervals, where you push to your maximum training for a period of time and follow up with a shorter rest period. Give this type of workout a try with our full-body 10-Minute HIIT Workout.
When Strength Training
Basic crunches can help tone your abs, but they only target certain abdominal muscles. Incorporate full-body exercises like variations of plank or core moves using a ball. Simply balancing on one leg on a BOSU will target your core too. Also try using different types of equipment - this 10-minute ab video features a small hand towel to sculpt your core.
I Tested GlamGlow's New Galactic Cleanse - and This Is How It Transformed My Skin
From the very beginning, GlamGlow has been a true rockstar brand in the skincare world. After catering to Hollywood elites for a while, the line sauntered into the mass retail market in 2011, and you could practically hear the collective rejoicing of pores around the galaxy! The original Super Mud Clearing Treatment ($69) was an instant success, as people loved the visual experience of seeing those dots of excess sebum getting sucked out of their skin in real time! Today, that debut product has nearly 4,000 positive reviews on Sephora.
True to form, the newest product, Galactic Cleanse ($36), offers a fun user experience and actually delivers on its promises. Let's discuss!
What You Need to Know About Ryan Gosling's Blade Runner Love Interest, Ana de Armas
Image Source: Everett Collection
The long-awaited sequel to 1982's Blade Runner officially hits theaters on Oct. 6, and we could not be any more excited. Not only does Blade Runner 2049's storyline take place three decades after the events of the first film, but it also stars Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Jared Leto, Robin Wright, and rising star Ana de Armas. Armas stars as Joi, Gosling's (LAPD Officer K) love interest, and while Blade Runner 2049 may be her first major movie role, the 29-year-old Cuban actress has actually been busy building her résumé since 2006.
Armas has starred in a handful of Spanish TV shows and appeared in a number of films like Knock Knock, Hands of Stone, and War Dogs. In fact, that's one of the main reasons producers Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson cast her in the film. "We think Ana is one of the most exciting, up-and-coming international actors in the world today, and we are thrilled she will be playing such an important part in this sequel," they told The Hollywood Reporter in April 2016.
While not much else is known about her character in the sci-fi film, you'll be seeing more of Armas pretty soon. The actress was recently cast in Andrea Di Stefano's upcoming film, Three Seconds, which is based on the Swedish novel by Anders Roslund and Börge Hellström. Armas will star alongside Rosamund Pike, Common, and Clive Owen, and the action thriller is slated to hit theaters in 2018.
Image Source: Getty / Fotonoticias
23 Easy Costumes You Can DIY With Just a Black Dress
If a black dress is a staple in your wardrobe, then you barely have to lift a finger this Halloween. You can wear a black dress in SO many ways even on a regular day, but this year you can DIY the perfect costume without spending any money - or even leaving your house! Here are some easy ideas for the ultimate outfit.
Google Is Giving Away Free Doughnuts and Google Home Minis at Pop-Up Shops Across the Country
Google knows the way to our hearts - and yes, it's obviously with doughnuts. In celebration of one of its newest products, the Google Home Mini, Google will be hosting pop-up doughnut shops across the country from now until Nov. 9. The Mini will rival Amazon's Alexa - except for the fact that it looks like a cute little doughnut - and of course, it'll come in pink and be on everyone's wish list this holiday season.
I had the pleasure of attending the New York event in SoHo, and it did not disappoint. Picture a doughnut shop from the future with pink conveyor belts, doughnut vending machines, and a sprinkle booth - all of which, of course, add up to the ultimate Boomerang. Each attendee of the event is encouraged to ask the Mini a question, and after doing so, a voice-activated vending machine serves up an adorable doughnut - or, if you're lucky, your very own Mini to take home. If you're thinking the odds are probably not in your favor to win, guess again: 25 percent of attendees will take home a Google Home Mini.
Ahead, check out some pictures from the absolutely adorable event. A full list of dates and locations for the Google Mini pop-up shops can be found here.
Why You Should Wash Your Leggings After Every Single Workout
Doing laundry sucks, especially if you work out. If you're like us, your leggings, sports bras, and sweat-wicking tops far outnumber anything else in your life that needs cleaning (or anything in your life, tbh). The idea of washing a mountain of activewear may inspire you to wear the same leggings once, twice, maybe even three (!!!) times in a row. Don't, just don't. For the love of your fellow classmates and the health of your vagina, just back away from the idea of wearing yesterday's Spin leggings in today's yoga class.
We get it, leggings can seem deceptively clean the next day. They dry quickly, often without odor, and if the leggings are black, it can seem like they were never worn at all. Don't let this magic fool you. They may look clean, they may even feel clean, but they are definitely not clean - in fact, they are teeming with bacteria leftover from your previous sweat session. When you decide to recycle, reuse, and abuse those same pair of pants in a second workout, the heat and sweat from your body is going to give second life to that bacteria in a very disgusting way. If you've ever been in a class and smelled a disgusting, foul stench, you know what I'm talking about here: that is the smell of someone who thought it was OK to wear those workout clothes one more time.
Beyond a nasty stench, wearing unwashed leggings isn't great for the health of your vulva. If you wear your leggings without underwear, like a lot of us do, you're now exposing your nether regions to day-old sweat and bacteria, which can lead to uncomfortable conditions like vaginitis and yeast infections. No one wants to be itchy vagina in class, especially when clipped into a Spin bike.
If we still haven't convinced you of this one-time-wear rule, consider how much you spend on your gear. Leggings are definitely not cheap, and the best way to make them last - and keep all of their technical properties - is to care for them in the right way. Don't let sweat and bacteria build up from not washing them - this can break down the material and in some cases bring on mold. While it's insane to think you can wash you gear immediately after a workout, we recommend rinsing your clothing out with water, allowing it to air dry before you throw it in your hamper, or putting it in a bag and tossing it in the freezer. All of these methods will help kill the bacteria and calm down foul odors until your next wash.
What to Skip, What to Sip: Starbucks's Creamy, Icy Drinks
If warm weather has you craving a cool, refreshing sweet treat - inspiring you to head to your local Starbucks for a creamy drink, like the Caffè Espresso Frappuccino - before downing 380 calories in a few chilly sips, you should consider your choices. These stats will help shave calories off your order.
Caramel
| Instead of | 16-oz. Caramel Frappuccino Blended Beverage: Coffee blended with caramel sauce, milk, and ice, topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce: 410 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Caramel Frappuccino Light Blended Beverage: Coffee blended with caramel sauce, milk, and ice: 140 calories |
| Calories Saved | 270 |
Mocha
| Instead of | 16-oz. Iced Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha: Espresso, milk, white chocolate flavored sauce, and peppermint flavored syrup on ice, topped with sweetened whipped cream: 500 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Iced Skinny Mocha: Bittersweet skinny mocha sauce, espresso, and nonfat milk served over ice: 100 calories |
| Calories Saved | 400 |
Vanilla
| Instead of | 16-oz. Caffè Vanilla Frappuccino: Coffee with vanilla bean powder, blended with whole milk and ice, topped with sweetened whipped cream: 430 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Caffè Vanilla Frappuccino Light: Coffee flavored with vanilla and blended with nonfat milk and ice: 180 calories |
| Calories Saved | 250 |
Strawberry
| Instead of | 16-oz. Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino Blended Crème: Strawberries and whole milk blended with ice and topped with a swirl of whipped cream: 370 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Strawberry Smoothie: A nourishing blend of natural strawberry puree, a whole banana, nonfat milk, whey protein, fiber powder, and ice: 290 calories |
| Calories Saved | 80 |
Chocolate
| Instead of | 16-oz. Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino Blended Crème: A creamy blend of rich mocha-flavored sauce, chocolaty chips, milk, and ice, topped with sweetened whipped cream and mocha drizzle: 420 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Mocha Frappuccino Light Blended Beverage: Coffee with rich mocha sauce blended with nonfat milk and ice: 160 calories |
| Calories Saved | 260 |
Java Chip
| Instead of | 16-oz. Java Chip Frappuccino Blended Beverage: Coffee with rich mocha-flavored sauce, blended with milk, chocolaty chips, and ice, topped with sweetened whipped cream and chocolate-flavored drizzle: 470 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Java Chip Frappuccino Light Blended Beverage: Coffee with rich mocha-flavored sauce blended with milk, chocolaty chips, and ice: 210 calories |
| Calories Saved | 260 |
Cinnamon
| Instead of | 16-oz. Cinnamon Dolce Frappuccino Blended Beverage: Coffee with cinnamon dolce-flavored sauce, blended with milk and ice, topped with sweetened whipped cream and cinnamon dolce topping: 380 calories |
| Go For | 16-oz. Cinnamon Dolce Frappuccino Light Blended Beverage: Coffee flavored with cinnamon syrup, blended with milk and ice: 110 calories |
| Calories Saved | 270 |
And there's other good news! For a limited time, Starbucks is offering a mini 10-ounce Frappuccino size. Learn more about just how many calories you can save here.
Google Is Giving Away Free Doughnuts and Google Home Minis at Pop-Up Shops Across the Country
Google knows the way to our hearts - and yes, it's obviously with doughnuts. In celebration of one of its newest products, the Google Home Mini, Google will be hosting pop-up doughnut shops across the country from now until Nov. 9. The Mini will rival Amazon's Alexa - except for the fact that it looks like a cute little doughnut - and of course, it'll come in pink and be on everyone's wish list this holiday season.
I had the pleasure of attending the New York event in SoHo, and it did not disappoint. Picture a doughnut shop from the future with pink conveyor belts, doughnut vending machines, and a sprinkle booth - all of which, of course, add up to the ultimate Boomerang. Each attendee of the event is encouraged to ask the Mini a question, and after doing so, a voice-activated vending machine serves up an adorable doughnut - or, if you're lucky, your very own Mini to take home. If you're thinking the odds are probably not in your favor to win, guess again: 25 percent of attendees will take home a Google Home Mini.
Ahead, check out some pictures from the absolutely adorable event. A full list of dates and locations for the Google Mini pop-up shops can be found here.
This Trump Pick Thinks Transgender Children Are Part of "Satan's Plan"
In a Sept. 7 press release, the White House announced the seventh wave of Donald Trump's judicial candidates. Among these picks was Jeff Mateer, who currently serves as the first assistant attorney general of Texas. "If confirmed," the release states, "Jeff Mateer of Texas will serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas." But here's the thing: Mateer is a man who thinks marriage equality is "disgusting" and he defends conversion therapy. He also believes transgender children are part of "Satan's plan."
Mateer's alarming comments date back just a couple of years, and they resurfaced in a major way on Sept. 20. In a speech titled "The Church and Homosexuality Part I," which Mateer gave in May 2015, he outlines his logic about the transgender youth of America.
"In Colorado, a public school has been sued because a first grader and I forget the sex, she's a girl who thinks she's a boy or a boy who thinks she's a girl. It's probably that: a boy who thinks she's a girl. And the school said, 'Well, she's not using the girl's restroom.' And so she has now sued to have a right to go in. Now, I submit to you, a parent of three children who are now young adults, a first grader really knows what their sexual identity? I mean it just really shows you how Satan's plan is working and the destruction that's going on."
Aside from the disrespectful and cavalier way Mateer addresses this young person's identity, he also seems to lack a fundamental understanding of the distinction between gender identity and sexual identity. To his credit, a first grader has not hit puberty and may not know which gender or genders they are romantically attracted to. This student is, however, well-equipped to identify as their true and rightful gender. While his sentiments about transgender individuals are misinformed (at best), his comments about same-sex marriage are degrading, disrespectful, and deeply prejudiced. He touches on his personal feelings in the very same speech.
"I submit to you that there'll be no line there. And actually, in the arguments Chief Justice Roberts, who's in the center there said, I mean, what is the limiting? Why couldn't four people want to get married? Why not one man and three women? . . . I mean, it's disgusting. I've learned words I didn't know. I mean, other than . . . my assistants here, have you ever heard the word 'throuple'? 'Throuple,' so that's three people coming together of different sexes, maybe mixed sexes. Them coming together. There are people who marry themselves. Somebody wanted to marry a tree. People marrying their pets. It's just like - you know, you read the New Testament and you read about all the things and you think, 'Oh, that's not going on in our community.' Oh yes it is. We're back to that time where debauchery rules."
Here, we see some of the oldest and most offensive arguments against gay marriage. And this rhetoric is getting uncomfortably familiar when it comes to Trump nominees. Earlier in September, Trump picked Sam Clovis for chief scientist for the Department of Agriculture. Clovis, who is not a scientist, thinks gay marriage leads to pedophilia.
22 Cozy Slow-Cooker Casseroles That Make Life Easy
It's always slow-cooker season, and these cozy casserole recipes are here to rescue dinnertime. You'll be glad you won't have to bother with the oven when you've got lasagna, enchiladas, and more casseroles cooking low and slow on your countertop. Let these 22 slow-cooker casserole recipes inspire your home-cooking plans when you don't feel like making too much of an effort in the kitchen.
12 of the Best Disneyland Tips, According to Experts
Think you know Disneyland inside and out? Well, this guy wrote the book on it, literally. Chris Strodder compiled facts upon facts for his "unofficial, unauthorized, and unprecedented" book The Disneyland Book of Lists - complete with nearly 250 lists dedicated to the park. The encyclopedic read explores all things Disney - from 15 urban legends about Disneyland to 18 secrets in the Haunted Mansion. He even asked a group of Disney aficionados what their one great tip for Disneyland guests would be. To find out how to truly experience the park like a pro, check out these Disneyland tips excerpted from the book now!
45 Festive Details That Make Halloween at Disneyland So Awesome This Year
If you've never experienced Disneyland around Halloween, you're definitely missing out! Even if you're not the biggest Halloween enthusiast, we promise that visiting the parks when they're festively decorated will fully get you in the spirit. You may even find yourself leaving the gates with all the adorable merchandise you swore you wouldn't touch.
Halloween 2017 is even more special at California Adventure, as the park is decked out for Halloween for the first time ever. See 45 awesome details (both familiar and brand new) that make Halloween at the Disney parks so awesome this year!
What Really Can Go Wrong When You Rent Your Place on Airbnb
Does opening up your home to strangers sound scary? I'm here to tell you that's it's worth the leap of faith. For the past year, I've rented my San Francisco appartment on Airbnb when I head out of town, and I've become a true believer. I love that it inspired me to become more of a minimalist. And it's made me trust in basic human decency, since all of my guests so far have been friendly and respectful of my home. It also helps pay for my vacations.
Despite all the upsides, let's be real: there's no such thing as free money. Being an Airbnb host takes work. If you're considering it, here are the nine potential downsides you should be aware of.
It Can Add Stress to Your Vacation
Renting your home while you're on vacation means you're not 100 percent on vacation.
Renting your home while you're on vacation means you're not 100 percent on vacation. You have to be prepared to send check-in and check-out messages and answer any questions that might come up. Add in a time change, and there can be some real dread when you wake up in the morning to check your phone, hoping nothing went wrong while you were sleeping.
For me, the small inconveniences are worth it, and I always let a guest know if I'll be offline for an extended period. In addition, I am sure to send as many details ahead of time and leave an extensive booklet of information in our home to proactively get ahead of questions. While I haven't used it, Airbnb also has an option to add a "co-host" to help manage your account and bookings while you're out of town.
You Can Never Predict What Might Go Wrong
Regardless of whether you handle all the communication with guests from afar, you definitely need to have someone on the ground ready to respond to any unforeseen issues should they come up. For me, this person is a local family member. A couple of times, I've had problems that required their attention, including a shower that malfunctioned and heating that went out! Luckily, my on-call savior was able to fix them with little more than a wrench and an extra set of batteries.
You Could Get End Up in a Legal Predicament
As a host, it's on you to learn your local landlord-tenant laws.
This hasn't happened to me, but I've read horror stories about vacation rental squatters. One guest in Palm Springs, for example, refused to leave (or pay!) after his 44-day booking and even threatened to sue the host for violating his tenant rights if she turned off the utilities.
As a host, it's on you to learn your local landlord-tenant laws. Often these include additional rights for any guests who stay more than 30 days. To make sure I knew what I was getting myself into legally, I called my local Rent Board to find out what my rights and responsibilities were as a short-term landlord. I also reviewed Airbnb's built-in host insurance policy, which has $1 million in liability coverage. For example, if a guest breaks their wrist after slipping on the rug, the insurance should cover any potential damages.
You Might Violate Complicated Regulations
I wanted to make sure I did everything by the book before renting out my place. So I researched my city's rules and applied for a permit, which was very time-consuming. Thanks to the rules, I have to file regular paperwork and make sure I stay within the 90-day annual short-term rental limit. If I forget to stay on top of this, I could pay expensive fees.
You Could Owe More Taxes
You must declare the money you make on Airbnb as income, and depending on your individual tax situation, this could have implications in terms of how much you owe come April. In San Francisco, I also have to pay extra business taxes each year, which amount to about 1 percent of the total value of all the possessions in my home, including furniture and appliances.
Kids Can Leave Their Marks
Our house isn't kid-unfriendly. But since we don't have kids ourselves, we've noticed that they can leave a mark. One time, we came home to permanent marker inexplicably drawn on a window (it came off easily, thankfully). And our downstairs neighbors have complained about the constant patter of running toddlers. To make things easier for everyone, we decided to not rent to groups with kids ages 2 to 12 years old.
Your Neighbors May Lose Patience
It's not just the kids that can wear on your neighbors. We've had them complain about guest parking and also music late at night (although, it did not actually come from our 60-year-old guests that time). We've found that the best thing to do is to respond to their concerns with real action, like no longer renting to kids, and by making sure they know the lines of communication are open, and they can contact us at any time with a big or small annoyance. We've also left a sign at our front door, asking guests to remove their shoes. It seems to be working out.
You'll Notice Regular Wear and Tear Sooner
The extra money we make will more than cover a new kitchen item or eventual paint refresh.
Usually, our place feels just like we left it when we come home. Over time, however, I have noticed some scratched cooking pans or scuffed walls. I try not to be uptight about it though, since I know the extra money we make will more than cover a new kitchen item or eventual paint refresh down the line.
Your Place Could Get Badly Damaged
Beyond small nicks and scratches, there is always the possibility that you end up in a nightmare scenario: a totally trashed home. That recently happened in London, where a first-time host had trouble getting reimbursed by Airbnb for about $8,000 in damages caused by a 200-person rager. She eventually succeeded. Before you host, it's important to understand Airbnb's insurance policy, as well as any renters' or homeowners' policy you might have. And keep in mind that the odds of a horrible tenant are low.
Renting the home you regularly live in on Airbnb is a "lifestyle." You have to keep things organized and guest-friendly and be ready to roll with whatever may come up while you're gone. But if you can handle that, the benefits of getting paid while you're on vacation are worth it. Take it from me.
2018 Movie Trailers You Have to See
2018 is already bringing with it a buzzy slate of films. Now that Fall is upon us, the new year's movie trailers are beginning to roll in. From Fifty Shades Freed to A Wrinkle in Time and Black Panther, there appears to be a movie for everyone (James Corden is even voicing a modernized Peter Rabbit to delight your kiddos). Sadly, some studios are set on making fans wait for a glimpse of the blockbusters awaiting them in their future - we're looking at you, Marvel - but others are already offering up the goods. And trust us, some of these movies look really good.
Watching the trailers, you'll notice a few themes are already beginning to emerge. The best one is that women are about to rule the box office. Natalie Portman, Alicia Vikander, and Taraji P. Henson are just a few of the actors headlining movies about ladies kicking butt next year. If the first batch of 2018 movie trailers is any indication of what's to come, you should plan on spending a whole lot of time at your local theater in the coming months.
This Is What Your Outdoor Space Is Missing For Fall
The Summer season always feels too short. Almost as soon as you take your patio furniture out of hibernation and get your outdoor space looking just how you want it, it's time to close it up again for the season. But outdoor living doesn't have to end as soon as Labor Day hits. Take your balcony, deck, or backyard from Summer to Fall with some of these quick additions to your outdoor space.
12 Harry Potter-Inspired Recipes You Can Bring to Life
Harry Potter fans can never get enough of the Wizarding World. Though it may be difficult (er, or impossible) for us measly muggles to re-create spells, one thing we can bring to life is the food and drink mentioned in the books. Though it may not be as easy as shouting "accio butterbeer!", these recipes are absolutely doable for the home cook.
Do These 6 Essential Stretches After Every Run
After an intense run or indoor cycling class, your tired muscles are screaming for some love. Here are six must-do moves to target all the tight areas of the body, increasing flexibility, preventing injury, and reducing next-day soreness.
Tipover Tuck
Targets: hamstrings, lower back, chest, shoulders
- Stand with your feet hips-width distance apart. Inhale to interlace your hands behind you, pressing the heels of your palms together in a double fist.
- As you exhale, fold forward at the hips. Keep your legs straight and press your navel toward your thighs to encourage a straight spine. Fold as deeply as you can, pressing your weight forward into your toes. Hold for 30 seconds.
One-Armed Camel
Targets: quads, abs, shoulders
- Stand on your shins so your knees are underneath your hips.
- Take a breath in, and then exhale to reach your right hand back, placing it on your right heel or on the mat behind your right toes. Extend your left arm in the air.
- Shift weight forward onto your knees to increase the stretch in your quads, belly, and chest. Lower your head behind you, holding for 30 seconds. Lift the torso up, and then switch sides.
Open Lizard
Targets: hip flexors, hips
- Come into a low lunge with the right knee forward, hands resting on the floor underneath your shoulders. Inhale and then exhale as you slowly lower your right knee to the right, resting on the outside of your right flexed foot. Keep the arms straight, pressing your chest forward to increase the stretch in the front of the left thigh.
- After 30 seconds, switch sides.
Butterfly
Targets: hips, lower back
- Sit on the floor, bend both knees, and bring your feet together. Inhale to lengthen the spine, and then exhale to fold forward. Rest your hands on your feet or extend your arms out in front of you.
- Stay here for 30 seconds.
Half Wheel
Targets: quads, abs, chest, shoulders, neck
- Begin lying flat on your back with your arms along the sides of your body, palms facing down.
- Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the floor and clasp your hands together below your pelvis, extending through your arms. Rock your weight from side to side to bring your shoulder blades closer together.
- Stay here for 30 seconds.
Seated Straddle
Targets: hamstrings, lower back
- Sit on the floor with your legs wide. Inhale to lengthen the spine and exhale to hinge at the hips, folding forward. Rest your hands on the floor or, if you're more flexible, rest on your forehead or cheek.
- Enjoy this stretch for 30 seconds.
In Other (Random) News: A Pumpkin Spice Air Freshener Actually Caused a School Evacuation
A strange, overpowering scent caused a Baltimore high school to evacuate on Oct. 5, and it wasn't just any ol' post-gym-class body odor. The culprit? A pumpkin spice air freshener. No, this isn't an early April Fools' joke - this seriously happened. I think it's safe to say we've officially reached the pinnacle of the pumpkin spice craze.
Students and teachers at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Baltimore started noticing the unusual smell on the third floor of the building, and some even said they were having difficulty breathing normally, The Baltimore Sun reports. After the principal called for an evacuation, the fire department showed up to assess the scene and a hazmat team ran a few tests to see if there was anything hazardous in the school.
Evacuation at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School..Hazmat crews called after sickening odor. Fire officials say, "pumpkin spice plug-in" culprit http://pic.twitter.com/3alS8z8RIJ
- Keith Daniels Fox45 (@KeithDFox45) October 5, 2017
Two students and three adults were taken to the hospital due to "ailing stomachs." The firefighters opened the windows to air things out a bit, and that's when they saw it: the pumpkin spice aerosol plugin attached to the wall of a third-floor classroom.
As soon as this intriguing news hit Twitter, people couldn't help but react by offering up their (oddly very passionate) feelings about the notorious Fall scent. Ahead is a sampling of what people are saying about the air freshener from hell.
Hate to Break It to You, but Cardio Might Be Sabotaging Your Weight Loss
I used to think going for a run was the quickest way to jump-start my weight-loss goals. From the outside, cardio seems to be the quickest way to burn fat and shed a few pounds, especially if you push yourself to the point of heavy breathing and sweating. I've learned over the years, though, that cardio isn't all it's cracked up to be. In fact, it might be the very thing that's stopping you from dropping those extra pounds.
"While doing cardio is great for your heart, lungs, and even your stress level, its not the fastest way to lose fat," said Lauren Clare, personal trainer and certified holistic health coach. The real key to losing fat is by building more muscle. "Having more lean muscle on your body helps increases your metabolism, which means you will be burning more calories on a daily basis," Clare explained.
If you're only focusing on cardio, you're not giving your body the chance to strengthen and develop those lean muscles, which means you're not providing yourself with all the tools you need to shed excess weight. Clare also points out that doing too much cardio can wreck the condition of your muscles. "While cardio does burn calories, it also can break down your muscles if you're doing it for long durations," she said. So all those superlong runs you take might actually be doing more harm than good.
This doesn't mean you can forget about cardio altogether, though. You don't get off that easy! Cardio certainly serves a purpose. It improves your cardiovascular health, burns calories, and releases a hefty amount of endorphins in your body. Just don't rely on it as your only source of exercise.
"The key to weight loss is not only about pounding out miles on the treadmill or elliptical," Clare continued. "Weight-loss goals are most successfully achieved when you have a combination of both cardio, strength training, and a balanced approach to nutrition." Consider that the winning combo!
11 Horror Movies That Don't Rely on Bloodshed to Be Terrifying
One of the most frustrating parts about being a fan of the horror genre is that it doesn't allow for nuance. Many people, especially those who aren't into scary movies, assume you either like them or you don't. But there are all kinds of fans: some of us just want a good slasher movie while others just want to see Ryan Reynolds's abs in Amityville Horror. Some of us are just wimps, but love something spooky. We're turning our attention to another subsection of horror fans: those who hate blood. So, let's strip away the torture porn and the grisly bloodbaths. These films will give you plenty of scares and minimal gore.
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