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.
lundi 13 novembre 2017
Another Agropur Comté cheese recalled for Listeria
Another batch of Comté firm-ripened cheese from Agropur Import collection has been recalled due to possible Listeria infection.
Supergirl and Arrow Stars Share Passionate Statements About Andrew Kreisberg Allegations
Image Source: Everett Collection
A slew of sexual harassment allegations were recently leveled at Arrow and Supergirl executive producer Andrew Kreisberg, and it didn't take long for female stars from both shows to let their opinions on the situation be known. Following Kreisberg's suspension by Warner Bros. TV Group, Supergirl lead Melissa Benoist shared a passionate statement on Twitter about how "heartbreaking" the prevalence of sexual harassment is in her industry, and why she isn't afraid to speak out about it.
"I am a woman who leads a show that supports equality and feminism, empowerment, and fighting for what is right," she began. "I have always tried to conduct myself this way personally, as well. Sadly, the show and my career are a part of an industry that doesn't always mirror these sentiments. This is heartbreaking, and at times makes me feel helpless. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. But I'm an optimist. I believe lasting change is possible, and when people are mistreated, they should have a safe forum to speak their truth and always be heard."
Arrow's Emily Bett Rickards also tweeted a thoughtful message about the allegations against Kreisberg - which he "strongly denies," according to Variety - that directly addressed all of the women who bravely speak up against their harassers. "To the men who committed harassment, who perpetuated rape culture, who turn a 'blind eye,' and complain about 'reverse sexism': you are weak and complicit. To the women who found the strength to speak up . . . You are heroines."
In addition to Arrow and Supergirl, Kreisberg is an executive producer on the other CW shows The Flash and DC's Legends of Tomorrow. Fifteen women and four men who worked with him came forward with allegations that he "engaged in a pattern of alleged sexual harassment and inappropriate physical contact over a period of years." Warner Bros. is currently conducting an internal investigation into the allegations.
Read Benoist and Rickard's statements in full below.
❤️ http://pic.twitter.com/bIAcZWrYOT
- Melissa Benoist (@MelissaBenoist) November 13, 2017
http://pic.twitter.com/AhSoTHZO2M
- Emily Bett Rickards (@EmilyBett) November 13, 2017
50 of Mariah Carey's Sexiest Outfits Since 1993
Mariah Carey might have been in the music business for the past 27 years, but don't you dare to think for a second that means she's not still showing off her curves and beautiful legs any chance she gets (on the red carpet, in one of her music videos, and even when out and about in New York City). The singer with the powerful voice - mom to twins Moroccan and Monroe - could really rewear something she slipped on during her "Vision of Love" 1990s days in her current "I Don't" and Las Vegas residency phase and, quite honestly, we wouldn't blink twice. If it wasn't Mariah, we would think she probably already is, but we know better . . . especially after taking a deep dive into 24 years of her sexiest fashion moments.
The 1 Thing I Gave Up in My Diet to Finally Ease My Anxiety Symptoms
I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder when I was in graduate school, although I suffered from anxiety symptoms for many years before that. I was told that I had a form of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which manifests in different ways for different people. For me, it meant that I was hardly sleeping and I often felt like I was suffocating, especially if I was in a crowded place or stressful situation. I also had a nasty habit of ripping off the skin around my fingernails and on the callouses of my feet, which resulted in a lot of blood, pain, and embarrassment. The medical term for this is dermatophagia or excoriation.
My doctor prescribed me a few different kinds of medications over the years, and while they did help me feel more relaxed in the moment, they were nothing more than a band-aid. I needed to figure out a way to quell my anxiety symptoms for good.
If you've ever felt the jitters after your morning cup of joe, imagine that feeling amplified 100 times over, to the point where you feel like your heart might beat out of your throat.
I was at a point in my life where I was doing a lot of yoga and learning more about holistic treatments, like meditation, acupuncture, and herbal supplements. I decided to go the all-natural route and change up the things in my life that I had control over. Over the course of several months, I changed my eating habits, eliminating all fried and processed foods, meditated every day, and significantly limited my time on social media. I also kept seeing my therapist regularly.
All of these definitely helped, but I was still dealing with my heart racing at inopportune times, particularly in the morning as I got my day started. I happened to stumble upon a blog post one day that spoke about the dangerous connection between caffeine and anxiety. If you've ever felt the jitters after your morning cup of joe, imagine that feeling amplified 100 times over, to the point where you feel like your heart might beat out of your throat. That's what it's like to drink coffee as someone with anxiety.
At that point in my life, I was having one or two cups of coffee a day, and it was a ritual I absolutely loved. I was a coffee snob, in fact (I blame it on my time living in Australia, which has the best coffee culture on the planet). However, I started to realize that every time I drank a cup of coffee, my hands would shake, I would get the nervous sweats, and I felt dehydrated. I just felt crappy all around. Yet somehow I just thought this was normal for people who drank coffee and that it was merely a sacrifice you had to make to enjoy the classic morning beverage.
After reading that blog post, I decided to give it up cold turkey. Unfortunately, I had ear-splitting headaches that radiated in my kneecaps for seven days straight, but after the withdrawal symptoms went away, the magic kicked in.
The longer I went without coffee, the more relaxed I felt throughout the day. I meditated in the morning instead of drinking a black coffee, which set me up to feel calm and even-keeled. As a result, I didn't get the afternoon crash and I simply felt more in control of my mind. I no longer felt frantic. My body started to produce its own energy rather than relying on caffeine to wake me up every day. Most importantly, my skin-picking habits slowly started to fall away. Because I was feeling less jittery than ever before, I had way fewer urges to peel the skin away from my fingers.
My body started to produce its own energy rather than relying on caffeine to wake me up every day. Most importantly, my skin-picking habits slowly started to fall away.
Since I've experienced these positive changes, I've spoken to quite a few people and read online that many others find relief from their intense anxiety symptoms when they give up coffee. Individuals with anxiety disorders already deal with enough excess energy as it is; our minds race for hours about the most minute things, we can't sit still, and we worry about everything until we're blue in the face. Caffeine promotes this rapid turnover of energy, so giving it up actually gives your body the chance to decompress and find its equilibrium.
I'm not saying that everyone with anxiety should give up coffee cold turkey (don't do it cold turkey, whatever you do!). But I found so much relief in my everyday life that I don't think I could ever go back to drinking caffeinated beverages. It's been two years since I gave up coffee, and my anxiety has only steadily improved over this time. I'm more in tune with what my body needs, and I'm quicker to engage in healthy self-care practices when I start to feel overwhelmed, like a Yin yoga session or a long, hot bath.
Even though I still love the smell of coffee, I don't miss it anymore. The pros have far outweighed the cons, and plus, if I feel like I need a warm, soothing beverage, I make myself a rooibos or chamomile tea. And it doesn't make my heart race a million miles an hour.
Are Your Weights Too Light? 3 Ways to Know When to Go Heavier
Going to the gym can sometimes seem as mystical as teleporting to Asgard (if you're a fan of the Marvel Universe, you'll know what we're talking about). We get that. There are just so many unanswered questions: When do I work out? What exercises? How many sets and reps? Cardio first or last? Why is that guy wearing jeans in the gym? Is she wearing Lululemons or that new Kate Hudson brand? Chances are high that there is one important question you've probably never asked and likely don't know how to answer. That question? When should you increase the weight that you lift? This isn't about getting bulky and building big muscles. Lifting weights helps you burn fat and tones your body while helping you get lean and healthy! Here are three ways to tell when you should up the ante with your fitness by lifting heavier weights.
You're swinging the weight around
If the weight you're lifting seems more like a child's toy than something that belongs in the gym, you need to up the weight! According to certified personal trainer Terry Asher, owner of GymJunkies.com, "Lifting a weight that is too light for you is counterproductive to your strength gains, fat loss, and overall health." In fact, Asher believes "you should not train with a weight that doesn't require your full concentration and strength to move safely before you even start your sets." If it's so light that you don't need to focus, chances are you'll miss out on the benefits in the big picture of your overall health and fitness. The moral of the story here? Lifting a weight that's light enough to play with is just that, play - not working out.
Related: Sculpt and Strengthen Your Arms With This 3-Week Challenge
You aren't feeling it
Do you work out and not feel your muscles contracting through each rep? Well, if that burn is missing, it's time for you to up the weight you're lifting! According to certified trainer Kendall Wood, NASM and coauthor of Core Fitness Solution, "If you're not feeling each contraction on every rep of your workout, you're not doing everything you can to spark positive changes in your body shape, fat loss, or strength gains." The old adage "No pain, no gain" is more than just a catchphrase. "A real workout means putting in effort in the gym, and that means feeling the burn while you're training and subsequent soreness the next day," Wood said. "If you're not feeling it, that's why it isn't working."
Related: These Are the Moves For Insanely Cut Abs
You're not seeing results
Results in the gym come in many different forms. You could lose weight, shrink in dress sizes, gain muscle, or get stronger and healthier. The fact remains, however, that results don't happen overnight. But if you're not seeing results after a strong commitment of diligent training over the course of six weeks, it's very likely that you need to raise the weight you're lifting. According to Lauryn Evarts, owner of The Skinny Confidential, "A well-planned training regime that is followed without fail and accompanied by an equally on-point nutrition plan will always prevail. But if those results don't come after a six-week period, you've probably not been putting in the effort by progressively lifting more and more as your body gets stronger."
The bottom line is obvious: Lifting more weight is essential to progression in the gym. All the experts agree that if you're lifting the same weight for too long (more than six weeks) or you can get through three to four sets without even feeling a burn or actual muscular fatigue, you're not lifting enough weight. If you want to get leaner, be stronger, fit into that new pair of jeans, or just feel better about your health, you just can't coast through your workouts. You'll only see the results you want if you're always pushing yourself by gradually increasing the weight to reflect the improvements in your body that come from training hard. Don't just go to the gym and go through the motions. Push yourself, and you'll be thrilled with the results!
I'm Hopelessly Addicted to Magnetic False Lashes (and Never Turning Back)
Guys, we need to have a talk about magnetic lash extensions. And by "a talk," I mean that I need to tell you how they're a f*cking godsend. I use them most times I wear makeup; basically, if you see me post a selfie anywhere, I'm probably wearing a pair of my magnetic falsies. I keep a pack of the lashes at my desk at work, I care for mine religiously at home, and I estimate that I've convinced at least 15 friends to buy their own pair. Considering the fact that many salons charge between $100 and $200 for lash extension treatments that only last a month, I feel obligated to share my experience with these reusable, easy-to-wear lash boosters. I've become something of a magnetic lash disciple.
Basically, if you see me post a selfie anywhere, I'm probably wearing a pair of my magnetic falsies.
When the producer of my weekly POPSUGAR Snapchat series, First Impression Friday, told me that I'd be trying magnetic eyelash extensions, I was nervous; I'd never even heard of magnetic lashes, let alone whether they were safe to use! But to make a long story short, the magnetic lash extensions from One Two Cosmetics ended up being my favorite product ever tested on First Impression Friday in over a year of shooting the Snap series - and I refused to part with them after we wrapped. I brought home the package of magnetic lashes and proceeded to wear them every single day for two weeks.
Like any self-respecting millennial, I took to social media to spread the word about the magnetic lashes, posting a blurb about them on my Instagram story. I received TONS of questions from friends and followers about the lashes, so I figured this review might be a good place to answer them! Read on for images of the lashes in action and answers to all the questions I've been asked since I began wearing the magnetic lash extensions.
Take a Tour of Flip or Flop Star Tarek El Moussa's Bachelor Pad
Tarek and Christina El Moussa have been separated for more than a year now, and during that time, Tarek has used his finely honed real estate skills to design his own abode. The Flip or Flop star invited E! News inside his Newport Beach area bachelor pad. With its whitewashed walls and high ceilings, the airy open-concept home exudes welcoming seaside vibes. And, Tarek says, is the perfect maze for his two young kids to play in.
Wide plank wood floors run throughout, and farmhouse touches add cozy warmth in the form of crossed wood planks, stair banisters, and molding on the kitchen island. Upstairs, 6-year-old daughter Taylor's room boasts not one but two bunk beds - although Tarek says she usually ends up in bed with daddy. Next door is 1-year-old son Brayden's gray-and-white-themed nursery, complete with a plush glider in which Tarek rocks him to sleep at night.
The master bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings with exposed beams. A flat-screen TV is mounted above a fireplace, and a rustic chandelier hangs above the contemporary canopy bed. And did we mention the views? You can see the water from the upper deck in the charming abode, and we're guessing he keeps his boat - which, he jokes, he just renamed from "Flip or Flop" to "Bad Decisions" - in the nearby marina.
Perhaps the most surprising and heart-warming part of the house tour, however, is when Tarek reveals that he and Christina still check in on each other and "still deep down care about each other." Check out every inch of Tarek's stylish home in the video above.
Anthropologie's Most In-Demand Gifts For The Home-Decor Obsessed
Don't we all have at least one family member or friend who sends us into a house-shaming spiral anytime we visit? Her home looks like a catalog you can't quite put your finger on. It's trend-forward, eclectic, but somehow still cozy. As she pours you a glass of wine from a sleek decanter, you sink into her pillow-filled sofa, breathe in her intoxicating scented candle, and gaze at her expertly hung gallery wall and think, "What am I going to get her this year?" Not to worry we've compiled a gift guide filled with Anthropologie's most in-demand home gifts, sure to impress any decor enthusiast. With prices ranging from modest stocking stuffers to splurge-worthy luxury gifts, you're sure to find something she'll love!
10 Outstanding Products That Changed the Beauty Business Forever
There are times in a beauty-lover's life when a product comes along that takes everything they thought they knew about makeup and chucks it right out the window. It seems whenever we think, "Gee, I wish there was a better way to do this," along comes a product that has the perfect solution - sometimes to problems we never even realized we had.
While the beauty world is full of new and exciting products hitting the shelves on what feels like every other day, there are a handful of products - both old and new - that have truly made history.
From a lip gloss that made all other shiny stuff look dull to an eye shadow palette that single-handedly made nudes cool again, here are the 10 products that changed our makeup bags forever.
Justine Marjan's 7 Tips For Pulling Off the Hairstyle of the Moment
From the red carpet to your Instagram feed, half-updos are more popular than ever. The nostalgic hairstyle, which you might recall wearing to school as a tween, is having a glamorous resurgence. Recent fans include Beyoncé, Zendaya, Bella Hadid, and Khloé Kardashian, who has definitely made the look one of her signatures.
Trendsetting celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan, who has created the in-demand hairstyle on Khloé, Olivia Culpo, Ashley Graham, and other stars, told POPSUGAR she likes the vibe it gives off. "Half up feels young and playful," she explained. "It allows for the hair to stay out of the face without being completely up, which can sometimes feel too harsh."
At a recent press event for TRESemmé, where Justine is Global Stylist, my lucky self got to be in her chair to recreate the look. After giving me her signature loose waves, she started pulling my hair halfway up. I was caught off guard when, instead of starting behind my ears as you'd expect, she strategically started by my temples. It suited my round face shape better, Justine explained.
That's when a lightbulb went off in my head: does where you start your half updo on your head make a difference? How do you know which placement looks most flattering on you?
Thankfully, Justine had all the answers. Ahead, read her seven tips on how to pull off the popular hairstyle based on your features.
100 Books to Read Before They're Films
There are always going to be books that are being made into movies, and we love to read them before they get the big-screen treatment as much as you do. If you like being able to say the book was better (isn't it always?), then we have 100 novels to dive into. Click through and see which books you need to add to your shelf - before they get to the theater.
This Sock-Filled Harry Potter Advent Calendar Is Only $15
A wise man - Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore - once said that "One can never have enough socks." And this is especially true when the socks in question are inspired by the Harry Potter series! That's why Target conjured up something magical for the holidays: a "12 Days of Socks" Advent calendar filled with a dozen pairs of HP-themed socks, priced at only $15! Talk about a perfect gift for basically everyone, but especially for the sock-lover (like Dobby the house elf) in your life.
At an unbelievably affordable price for such a unique gift, especially one that keeps giving for nearly two weeks, this cozy calendar is a great pick for gift exchanges, white elephants, or just to keep your own toes toastier than the Gryffindor common room fireplace. And if Harry Potter somehow isn't your thing, there are 12 Days of Socks calendars for Disney-lovers and more.
Check out the full dozen pairs of socks ahead, then shop the set before it sells out! Your Gringotts vault will thank you for finding such an affordable gift option this year.
20 Chapter Books to Read Aloud With Your Kids
Reading with your child is a great way to increase her interest in books and create a bonding experience. But sadly, 250 million children aren't learning basic reading skills, and today's International Literacy Day is shining a light on the issue. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, reading aloud daily to children helps build language acquisition and literacy skills. With every passing paragraph, you connect with your child through new worlds, crazy characters, and shocking plot twists. When they start to progress from picture books to more complex stories, the themes found in literature become even more vital to your kids' personal development. To ensure an amazing time during your readings, choose books that entertain both you and your child; when both reader and listener are fully engaged, the valuable lessons found in literature become much more captivating! Here are the very best chapter books to read as your kids grow.
Your Friend Will Cry Sparkling Tears of Joy Over These 16 Highlighter Gifts
We can't blame our strobing-obsessed friends for their extrashimmery faces; everyone looks a little perkier with more glow. For your friend who refuses to leave the house without taking a fan brush to her cheekbones, cupid's bow, and brow bones, we've rounded up the best gifts for your girl who can't get enough highlighters in her life. From palettes that will give her a snowy-weather flush to liquids that will give off reflective shine, there's a product here for every makeup-lover and every price range. Read on to help your highlighter-hoarding friend expand her overflowing collection and make her shriek with glee as she unwraps her sparkly gift.
RHOC Star Kelly Dodd Is Leaving Her $5M Mansion – And Her Husband
Kelly Dodd is anything but shy and retiring on the Real Housewives of Orange County - and neither is her house. The 42-year-old mother and reality star has reportedly just found a buyer for her opulent Corona Del Mar mansion. The contemporary five-bedroom, five-and-a-half bath home, co-listed with Leo Goldschwartz of the McGonigle Team and Nicole Contreras of Nourmand & Associates, has apparently fetched a whopping $5 million. With over 4,400 square feet of luxurious living space and a killer location overlooking the Pacific, we're not surprised it sold for so much. Fans of the Bravo franchise will recognize the home's beachy open floor plan and dramatic white and gold color palette. The Dodds upgraded the property during a major design overhaul in 2015, leaving every inch of the property styled beyond belief, from the La Cornue range in the kitchen to the crystal chandelier in the master closet. We don't know where Kelly will move next, but given her recent confirmation that she's filing for divorce from husband Michael, we can assume it will be as a single woman.
Zac Efron Will Make You Swoon in the Magical New Trailer For The Greatest Showman
Our first official look at Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron's circus-musical biopic, The Greatest Showman, is here! The trailer offers a glimpse into the film's magical take on P.T. Barnum's origin story, from his days as a pencil-pushing businessman to how he got the idea for the Barnum Museum and beyond. Jackman stars as Barnum (and will make you swoon, so prepare yourself) and is joined by Michelle Williams as his wife, as well as Zac Efron and Zendaya as circus performers. The soundtrack, done by La La Land's Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, already sounds incredible, but we'll have to wait until the film hits theaters on Christmas to hear more.
Classic Thanksgiving Dishes, Done in 7 Ingredients or Fewer
Thanksgiving should be about cozying up to the scent of Fall wafting throughout a warm house, surrounding yourself with loved ones, and gorging on the best feast of the year. But too often, relaxation is the last item on the agenda. Instead of a complicated Thanksgiving, consider this menu, complete with all the classic dishes, made with seven ingredients or fewer. Here's what's not on this menu: stress, fussy techniques, and complicated directions. Now go open that bottle of Champagne and actually enjoy this day of thanks.
How to Do Your Hair and Makeup to Land a 3rd Date According to Matchmakers
The first time I met my husband was on a blind date. We connected via a dating app, and I honestly wasn't excited for the meeting. He sounded fantastic on paper (tall, dark, and handsome with an MBA), but our texting chats were kind of . . . boring. So I went to an after-work Pilates class before our late-night drinks and didn't put too much effort into my hair and makeup.
And holy sh*t! I regretted that! The second my man walked into the crowded wine bar, I thought, "He's really cute!" Oops. Luckily, it didn't matter. We still connected and obviously went out again. But not feeling like my most put-together self did affect my confidence during that meeting.
First impressions matter. Whether your date actually notices your chipped nails - or you just get distracted by them - it's not worth worrying about if you can avoid it. Having feel-good hair and makeup allows you to focus on getting to know this new person.
To help make sense of exactly how to do your beauty look for online dating profile pictures, the first date, and the third date, I consulted with Greta Tufvesson and Nikki Lewis. These women are professional matchmakers for their company, The Bevy. They are connecting singles across the country from San Francisco to New York City.
If what you're doing now isn't working for you, then you may just need their tough love. Because according to this duo, you need to play it safe for the first few meetings, meaning save the bold cat eye for the third date. Here, we got their tips on exactly what to avoid, what to do, and the products to help you achieve it.
By the way, before my second date with my husband, I made an appointment at Drybar.
The Best 60+ Gifts For 5-Year-Olds
The kindergartener on your list is no longer a tot. Somehow, moving into kindergarten helps kids express themselves more than ever before, so finding toys and games that help them build on the skills they are learning at school can also help them express themselves even more. From concentration games and early reading skills, to Lego sets and Barbies, there's something on this list for every 5-year-old you know.
Scroll through for 55 of our favorite finds for the 5-year-old on your list!
Mom Perfectly Sums Up the Moment a Teacher Finally Noticed What She's "Always Seen" in Her Son
When Meg Rowe made the difficult decision to put her 2-year-old son in preschool, she had no idea that the separation from Teddy wouldn't be the only struggle she'd have to endure.
"A couple months in, his teachers casually mentioned that he didn't talk," she wrote in a Facebook post. "I was so distressed because he was so loud at home. What was I doing wrong?"
A few months later, and those same teachers reported that he now only spoke in whispers: "Teachers said if they looked at him he went mute. Was I making him feel like he couldn't be loud? Like he would get in trouble? I spent hours at home going, 'IT'S OK TO SCREAAAAAAMMMMM!!!' and having him double over in hysterics."
It was painful for this self-proclaimed "inexperienced parent" to watch her kid act one way at home and then shut down at school.
After eight long months, both she and her husband, Kyle, happened to drop him off for the first time together. The teacher gave them an update on Teddy.
"The teacher says, 'Wow, Teddy. A big change! Not only does he talk, all the time, to everyone, but he is . . .' (pause for considering her words carefully) 'just a really good friend. The ultimate friend! To everyone here,'" Meg recalled. "Is there really a better compliment to be had for anyone, of any age?"
Like all the parents of shy children who can perfectly relate, Meg couldn't help but cry:
"So, you know, don't mind the tears of a mom at 8:30 in the morning standing in her preschooler's classroom when she realizes someone else - unbiased - sees what she's always seen."
The Hysterical Differences Between Your First and Second Child
With children comes experience, so it's no surprise that many parents do things slightly different the second time around. And despite best intentions to keep everything equal between your firstborn and newest addition to the family, there are some changes that are bound to creep in that can be classified as second child syndrome. Whether you've given up on solely the homemade, organic baby food well before your second child's first month or you suddenly realized that they're almost 8 months old and you have yet to take a month-by-month photo, these babies have a slightly different experience. While your younger kiddos get to benefit from a more knowledgeable (and hopefully less nervous!) mama, some of these evolutions are too funny not to acknowledge.
Check out the 12 differences between your first and second baby that proves that the struggle can be very real for the younger kid.
Glow to Sephora, Because Becca Just Launched the Highlighter Vault of Your Dreams
Aren't beauty vaults a wondrous thing? By gifting one, not only do you make a friend very happy, but you also get to rest easy knowing you won the holidays with a thoughtful, expansive, and often limited-edition gift.
So if you're planning to purchase anything for a highlighter fiend - or want to surprise your own fine self with a collection of luminous powders - we have great news for you. Becca, purveyor of the beloved light-reflective Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighters, just went and dropped a whole dang vault of its prized products.
Aptly called the Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter Vault ($200), this bundle includes six full-size powders, all wrapped up in a minimalist-chic box. The included shades are Pearl, Opal, Prismatic Amethyst, Moonstone, Rose Gold, and Rose Quartz.
This set would most be appreciated by fans of a subtle flare - those who prefer to look like they bathed in glitter rather than rep flushed-from-within glow might be a little disappointed. These products work to give a natural coverage, due to the fact that they're made of a finely milled powder that blends like a dream. Even someone who prefers liquid or cream luminizer will still want to hoard these shimmers, because the formula is just so silky.
At $200, this is definitely not a budget buy, but you'll still save quite a bit investing in it as opposed to purchasing six separate powders. Since individual Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighters retail for $38, you'll save about 30 bucks via the vault. That's almost like getting one for free.
10 Makeup-Artist-Approved Ways to Instantly Look More Awake
If you're stuck in a beauty rut, the transition of seasons is a great time to wake up your makeup routine. When the majority of my clients have busy lifestyles and are often underslept, it's my job as a makeup artist to help bring their best faces forward. To help you do the same, I'm dishing out some tricks from my kit to help you find new ways to update your routine.
Lime Crime Is Making It Possible For Brunettes to Rock Purple Hair
This Fall, it looks like the unicorn hair phenomenon has reached its goth phase - at least, according to Lime Crime. The brand just announced that it's adding four more shades to its Unicorn Hair Collection, but this time, it's gone way darker. Whereas the first rollout of shades were bright as can be, these four new hues are deliciously dramatic.
The colors in question are Chestnut, a deep maroon; Squid, a spooky purple; Charcoal, a dusty gray; and Sea Witch, an (evil) mermaid's tail green. These shades are all full-coverage, and the decision to release such intense colors was not an accident.
In an Instagram post, the brand said that these dyes are all meant for brunette or darker-haired girls who want to rep Team Unicorn.
See each shade ahead, before anything is released on Lime Crime's website on Oct. 24. (Dark) magic awaits!
30 Women of All Ages Share Why They’ve Never Had Botox
To say I've been tempted to jump on the Botox bandwagon is an understatement. As a beauty writer and New Yorker who's nearing the bitter end of her 20s, it's safe to say that I'm surrounded by the seemingly untapped benefits of the wrinkle reducer.
More than half of my close friends and colleagues have gone under the needle, and most of the trusted skincare experts I interview on a constant basis talk endlessly about the long-term advantages of what's being called "preventative Botox." Basically, the idea is that if you prevent the muscles from moving at a young age, the cells "atrophy," or shrink after years of not being used. Thus, you don't develop those deep lines or wrinkles.
It sounds promising, and I'm definitely not one to turn down the chance to try something - especially if it's at no cost to me (a very lucky perk of working in this industry) - but there's just something about Botox that I'm not ready for. Along with this decision has come a great deal of anxiety. Am I missing out on an opportunity to try something I should be doing anyway? Are the few lines I notice on my face getting worse every second that I pass up the chance to let a doctor inject me with the stuff?
Encouragement from others to give it a try doesn't help. I know their comments are harmless, but when a friend said, "You should get Botox - just a little in your forehead," months before my wedding, how was I supposed to take it? Plus, it got me thinking, if these conversations are happening around women my age or younger, what are women a decade or two older talking about? And what is the next level once we're tired of Botox?
I also found myself constantly thinking about who might have gotten Botox and who was taking the all-natural route instead. Some say you can tell if people have had it done or not - but, truly, I'm no expert in detecting it. Sometimes I find myself looking at a beautiful older woman on the subway and I wonder, "Is her skin so nice because she's been getting Botox for years?" This is probably the most upsetting part for me - instantly assuming that because a woman has good skin, she's probably had work done.
We need to stop thinking that we need Botox or any other physically altering enhancement to be any more beautiful than we are in our natural state. For those who get Botox and like the results, all the power to them. The beauty world is clearly behind those who decide to indulge, and my opinion is that if it makes you feel more confident and happy in your own skin, go for it. I just personally choose to care for my skin in different ways (at least for now), mainly through the use of quality products, regular facials, and chugging down several glasses of wine - I mean water! - daily. And I'm far from alone.
I asked women of all ages - from their early 20s to their late 80s - who have never had Botox why they've avoided injections and what tricks of the skin trade they're using to care for their skin.
The Surprising Thing That Really Helped Reduce My Anxiety and Stress Levels
I've always been prone to worrying and overthinking things, but during the first half of 2017, I began suffering the worst anxiety I've ever experienced. Unlike previous episodes (which usually involved stuff like making people let me out of the car on a road trip so I could get the train home to check I hadn't left the iron on), this time the anxiety was far more personal. I would lie awake for hours dissecting the day, worrying about tiny things I'd done or said, finding myself in a spiral of shame for no real reason. This wasn't just normal self-awareness (I know I'm not perfect); it was uncontrollable navel-gazing. And it definitely wasn't doing my any good.
Then two things happened. Firstly, I went on holiday, and I'm sure that did something to temporarily calm my overactive grey matter. But there was something else that I think has had an incredible effect on my anxiety levels, and that happened two months ago when a very sassy tortoiseshell cat called Mina moved in. Gratuitous photo, because the internet is for cats.
Image Source: Gemma Cartwright
I didn't know until I'd spent a few weeks with Mina how much the presence of a feline friend can help with anxiety and stress. There's a reason animals sometimes get prescribed for emotional support, and I'm not alone in noticing the benefits. Aside from the obvious - having something cute and cuddly to play with is awesome and keeps your mind off other stuff - spending time with a cat boosts serotonin levels in the body. Battersea Cats Home should have put that on the adoption page: "Mina: scientifically proven to increase your happiness!"
There's also research to suggest cats can stimulate the release of oxytocin (a chemical that's perhaps best known for its role during and after childbirth, bonding new mothers and their babies). No wonder I was smitten within hours. I was also blown away with how sensitive Mina seems to be to the moods and needs of her human companions. She's not a lap cat (trust me, I've tried), but she will seek me out and sit next to me if I'm in the house alone, almost as if she knows I need the companionship. The soothing sound of her contented purr as I stroke her relaxes me instantly. Thinking about her (and trust me, I do so constantly) stops me from (over)thinking about myself too much, but thankfully she's also fairly independent and self-sufficient so I don't flick over to "worry" mode the moment she waddles out the cat flap.
All this came as a huge surprise to me. I didn't consider myself a pet person at all. I didn't get what all the fuss was about when my friends posted dozens of photos of their kittens on Facebook or colleagues brought their dogs into work. I cringed when people signed Christmas cards "Love Bob, Jane, and Fluffy". I've never been responsible for anything larger than a hamster before. My husband was the one who wanted a cat and I went along with it mostly because I knew how much it meant to him. But within hours of bringing her home, I realized what a wonderful addition to the family she was going to be, and how much she was going to help me to calm down. I give all the cat fans in my life full authority to say "I told you so".
Since Mina's been in my life, my anxiety levels have dropped to almost nothing. I am back to my "normal" levels of self-obsession and worry: probably more than most people, but at least I'm able to sleep at night.
That is, until the dawn chorus of hungry meowing begins!
9 Things People With Clean Houses Do Every Day
Find yourself feigning excuses for why your friend can't pop up to your place to use the bathroom before the movie? Ever turn beet red with embarrassment when unexpected guests enter your home? It sounds like you have a messy house.
Imagine how much more enjoyable life would be if you were one of those perpetually tidy people whose homes could be company-ready with 15 minutes' notice. We wanted to turn our clean fantasies into a reality, so we researched the daily habits of people with clean houses - note the word "habits." What we learned is that it takes more than a few deep cleanings to achieve this status of cleaning goddess. It takes daily work and preparation to keep your house in a constant state of near perfection.
Read on to discover the nine habits people with clean houses do every day, and how you can adopt them to get out of the disaster zone you've been living in.
- Make Their Bed
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Before you leave the house in the morning (or better yet, before you leave the bedroom), make your bed. If you're in a rush, pull the comforter up to the pillows, and smooth it out to create the semblance of a made bed. This simple act creates a sense of order in your bedroom and sets your day off on a productive note that's likely to carry through.
- Empty the Dishwasher in the Morning
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Get the dishwasher emptied and ready to go for the day. Doing this in the morning lays the groundwork for an easy dinner cleanup at night and keeps dishes from stacking up in the sink throughout the day.
- Do a Load of Laundry Every Day
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Washing clothes on a regular schedule keeps the dirty pile from becoming overwhelming (not to mention, ensures that you'll never run out of clean underpants). Those with big families prefer doing it every morning, but if you live alone, doing laundry a couple of predetermined days a week should suffice.
- Use Baskets to Organize Things
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When there's a place for everything to go, it's easier to keep everything in its place. Scatter cute baskets throughout the house to corral your things, and add shelves to hold the big pieces.
- Don't Procrastinate
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When a box is delivered, unpack the goodies inside, and discard the packaging immediately. The same goes for dealing with spills or messes. The longer you wait, the harder they become to deal with.
- Put Away Their Clothes From the Day
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As tempting as it is to drop your clothes on the floor after a long day's work before slipping into your sweats, tidy people take the time to fold, hang, or place them in the hamper, as necessary. Do this, and your clothes and floor will both look better for it.
- Clean as They Go
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You can dramatically minimize your mess by cleaning as you go. If you rinse the cutting board while the pasta is boiling or start loading the dishwasher while the chicken is baking, the bulk of the work will be done by the time you serve dinner.
- Never Go to Bed With a Dirty Kitchen
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Resist the urge to climb directly into bed after a big meal. Take care of any and all kitchen cleanup that night - clean pots and pans, wipe down counters, etc. Not only will the mess harden and be smellier the next day (read: more challenging to clean), but waiting means that you'll have to spend your morning backtracking to make up for what you neglected the night before, instead of getting a head start on the day ahead.
- Plan Ahead
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Whether it's picking out your outfit the night before or reviewing what cleaning products you need to restock before tackling the bathrooms that weekend, you can give yourself a jump on the day by planning ahead.
You Might Also Like:
8 Places in the Home Even Clean People Forget to Wash
15 Things Organized People Have in Their Homes
Tricks for Keeping a White Linen Sofa Fresh and Clean
Try Not to Laugh Hysterically at These Notes Home From School
Upon asking, "How was school?" most parents get the response, "Good" - but the truth is, a lot must go on during those six-hour days, and based on some of these notes home from teachers, it sounds like their days are pretty eventful!
Read through to see the hysterical notes, and just try not to laugh!
You're Pronouncing (and Making) Bruschetta All Wrong
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
While I was in Italy eating my way through Sansepolcro and Tuscany with other guests of Casa Buitoni, I learned not only how to pronounce bruschetta but also how to make it as the Italians do . . . which is not how I've been making it at all. The first mistake many make when it comes to bruschetta is the pronunciation. It's bru-skett-ah, not bru-shett-ah. As annoying as it may seem when Giada De Laurentiis corrects someone's pronunciation of an Italian word, she's totally right (after all, she is from Italy).
Also, the true meaning of the word bruschetta means "grilled bread," and the way that chefs make it in Italy is further proof that the secret to Italian cooking is simplicity. As I learned directly from chef Sarah Fioroni, author of A Family Farm in Tuscany: Recipes and Stories from Fattoria Poggio Alloro, one of the most traditional methods of preparing bruschetta doesn't even involve tomatoes. Ready for this incredibly easy recipe?
- Slice a baguette or other good loaf of bread, and toast it in the oven until slightly crisp.
- Drizzle each slice with a generous amount of (high-quality) olive oil.
- Sprinkle each slice with salt.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Erin Cullum
The pure flavor of the olive oil shines, and a high-quality slice of bread is the perfect bed for it - I couldn't get enough. After making that version, we moved on to the next. Here's how to make the best tomato and basil bruschetta:
- Dice fresh tomatoes and add to a bowl with fresh torn basil leaves, a few drizzles olive oil, and salt and pepper.
- Slice a baguette or other good loaf of bread, and toast in the oven until slightly crisp.
- Rub each slice with a raw clove of garlic for a few seconds, but don't overdo it.
- Top with a heaping spoonful of tomato mixture.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Erin Cullum
Both of these versions of bruschetta make excellent appetizers for a group, especially when entertaining during Summer. Now that I know how easy it is to make such a flavorful and elegant dish, I'll turn to these methods all the time.
An HGTV Star Reveals the 6 Upgrades That Will Make Your Bathroom Feel Like a Spa
If pampering yourself is high on your list of priorities (and if it isn't, it should be), a luxurious bathroom is exactly what you need. In Scott McGillivray's latest Reno to Reveal project - follow along on social media using #Reno2Reveal - he turns a small basement bathroom into a spa-like retreat fit for a king or queen. Read exactly how he did it below.
Love what you're reading? Head over to our Snapchat for more awesome, bite-sized content!
Curbless Glass Shower Enclosure
"If you want your bathroom to feel more open, there's one sure-fire way to do it. Install a glass shower enclosure. It's way more luxurious than a shower curtain, and it removes the visual obstruction," said Scott. "In addition, I also designed the shower to be curbless, which has a significant impact. It opens up the sight lines and, when combined with the frameless glass, makes this small room feel huge."
Makeshift Steam Shower
"Within the glass shower enclosure, I added a special feature. The glass goes all the way to the ceiling and has a vent at the top that can be opened and closed. So if you feel like indulging in a steam shower, you can close the vent and allow steam to gather, and when you want a regular shower, you can open it up and allow the steam to escape," Scott explained. "Steam generators can be very pricey, but this solution allows you to get a similar experience at a fraction of the price." And don't forget that if you're creating a steam shower, you'll want to tile the ceiling so it's properly waterproofed.
Shower Bench
"No decent steam shower can be without a bench," said Scott. "To up the luxury factor, I installed a custom bench directly in the shower and tiled it to match the rest of the space. While you can bring in another type of waterproof bench, nothing looks as good as a custom built-in unit." Scott also added a built-in tile niche to hold toiletries, such as shampoo and soap.
Handheld and Rain Shower Head Options
"This bathroom is all about indulgence so I added both rain and handheld shower options. Rain showers provide full coverage when you stand underneath, so every inch of you gets to enjoy the sensation. It would be silly to have a spa bathroom and not include one. But that said, sometimes you need to wash and go so I included the handheld option for the ultimate in convenience," said Scott.
Heated Floors
No luxurious space is complete without heated floors! Scott explained, "the worst thing would be to step out of a great steam shower only to put your feet down on an icy floor. While heated floors can be expensive to install in an existing room, it's well worth considering when you're going through a renovation."
Vanity Storage
"Nothing kills serenity like clutter," declared Scott. "To avoid the problem of bottles, jars, and toothbrush holders taking over the space, I installed a large vanity with plenty of storage. Above it I hung a nice big mirror that reflects light along with two hanging pendants." As a pro tip, Scott added that you should never install lights over a mirror in a bathroom because it will cast unflattering shadows on the face.
8 Zumba Workouts to Shakira's Music That'll Have You on Your Feet in Seconds
You probably already can't help but stand up and dance every time a Shakira song comes on - if you can manage to stay seated through "Chantaje" or "Waka Waka," tell us, how do you do it? So you might as well sneak in a little workout every time you play your favorite tune by the Colombian singer on repeat. That's exactly what learning these Zumba choreographies to some of Shakira's biggest hits will help you do. Put on your leggings, grab a towel, and scroll ahead.
A Simple, DIY Updo That Works on Short Natural Hair
If you think naturally kinky and coiled hair is a one-trick pony, think again. According to Anthony Dickey of Hair Rules Salon, it's one of the most versatile hair types around. You can wear it straight, wear it big, or wear it curly. Go far beyond the afro with this step-by-step updo tutorial. Best of all, you can do most of the work in the shower.
Tyler Florence's Hack Will Forever Change the Way You Make Mashed Potatoes
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry
Food Network chef Tyler Florence shared his mashed potatoes recipe with us, and I immediately had to try it. Traditionally, potatoes are cooked in water before being mashed together with butter and cream (or milk). However, Tyler suggests cooking the potatoes in the cream itself, so no potato-y flavor is lost. He explains, "Potatoes have a really delicate, beautiful minerality to their flavor profile, and when you cook potatoes in water and you pour that water down the drain, you've extracted all the flavor of the potato. So what I do with mashed potatoes - because you finish them with cream and butter anyway, right? - is I'll take that same cream and butter and add that to the potatoes and cook the potatoes in cream and butter." Would that actually work? Would it actually taste good? I had to find out.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
As Tyler instructed, I added "cold, peeled, chopped potatoes, cream, butter, and olive oil" to a pan. He also told us, "I like garlic. I like sage and rosemary flavor combinations, and a little bit of thyme." To my pot of 3 pounds of potatoes, I added enough half and half to just barely cover the potatoes. Frankly, I was scared about using straight cream, which is why I deviated slightly from his instruction. I then added about 3 tablespoons of salted butter and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. I added a few cloves of peeled garlic and half a bunch each of sage, rosemary, and thyme. I also included a significant amount of salt (at least a teaspoon) so the potatoes could absorb some of the flavor while cooking. I covered the pot and allowed it to simmer on medium until the potatoes became fork tender, about 20 minutes. The aroma in my kitchen was unbelievable.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
Here's what Tyler told us to do next: "When the potatoes are tender, I put a bowl on the counter and a colander inside that bowl. I pour the potatoes through the colander, and the cream will collect on the bottom. Then I'll put the potatoes back into the pot and take the potato-infused garlic cream and fold that back into the potatoes, and it's the most incredible flavor profile. It's the best mashed potato you'll ever taste in your entire life." And so, I did just that. I drained the potatoes, collecting the rich liquid while discarding the herb stems. I then mashed the potatoes, adding back in the liquid until I created velvety smooth mashed potatoes with little specks of garlic and herbs. I salted and peppered to taste and served up with my lemon-garlic-parsley roast turkey and gravy. These mashed potatoes are pure heaven. I can now agree with Tyler's affirmation; they really are the best mashed potatoes I've ever tasted in my entire life. And even though I was scared it would be a huge flop, I'm never going back to any other method again.
Crush Your November Health and Fitness Goals With These Must-Have Products
Cooler weather is blowing in this month and brings these cool health and fitness products with it. Here's a look at what we're loving this November.
The Perfect Cocktail For Your Zodiac Sign
Ever feel like there's that one cocktail that just speaks to you? It just might be your perfect zodiac match. And, hey, even if you don't read your horoscope every day, it doesn't hurt to find a new go-to cocktail recipe for every occasion. We've tapped cocktail expert Kat Odell, author of the recently published cookbook Day Drinking: 50 Cocktails For a Mellow Buzz ($11), for her advice on all things cocktail-related astrology. Read on to discover which cocktail you should stir up based on your zodiac sign, and learn why it's the best match, according to Kat herself. And, yes, as the name of her book implies, you have permission to drink it any time of day!
This Powerful Photo of a Baby Still Connected to His Placenta Shows How Mind-Blowing Birth Is
The first moments of a baby's life are a whirlwind - so much is happening that it's almost impossible to stop and simply appreciate what has just happened. One midwife-turned-photographer, Emma Jean Nolan, took the opportunity to capture the awe-inspiring power of birth with a startlingly beautiful image. In it, a newborn baby is still connected to his placenta by his umbilical cord that is adjusted to spell out the word "love."
Her intention with the image of baby Harper, which was shot just 90 minutes after he was born last week, was to draw attention to an ancient Maori tradition of burying a newborn's placenta after their birth. Nolan wrote on Facebook:
As a Maori baby his placenta will now be returned to the land. The word 'whenua' relates to the placenta and to the land. Whenua (placenta) is returned to the whenua (land) with the pito (umbilical cord) the link between the newborn and papatuanuku (mother earth). With this affinity established, each individual fulfils the role of curator, for papatuanuku (mother earth), which remains life long.
Interestingly, Nolan told us that she'd been planning to take a photo like this for a while but "was waiting for a baby with a long enough cord to spell" the word. She said, "Once I saw how long Harper's cord was, I knew he was the right baby!"
Although this method for honoring the placenta is rare in the US, the Australian photographer's black-and-white image has gotten more than 2,500 "likes" on Facebook in less than a week, probably because it shows readers - even moms - a sight they've likely never seen before: what is actually birthed when a newborn baby enters the world.
29 Pixie Cuts That'll Make Your Short Hair a Big Talking Point
If the bob is just not dramatic enough for you, and you can't be bothered with washing and drying a longer style, a liberating pixie cut could be right up your alley. Though you may not be able to experiment with updos, braids, and ponytails, a pixie still offers plenty of versatility. The cut itself can be androgynous and edgy with shaved sections and sharp lines, or softer and more romantic with longer bangs or a clever part that can be adapted to give you different looks. You can go wild with product to spike it up, slick it down, or add texture and curl, and you can also experiment with wild new colors. For a little Insta-inspiration, see how these ladies sport their pixies, then get that salon appointment booked!
The 5 Features That Make Upgrading to iPhone 8 Totally Worth It
Agonizing over whether or not to upgrade your iPhone has become a ritual of Fall. At first, it was all about timing your two-year contract period to end right at the moment the new one came out. Now that we've (generally) moved past that in phone plan land, however it's all about whether or not you think the newest features are worth shelling out for. As a result, scrolling through endless reviews with your Autumn-flavored latte in hand is just about as common as apple picking or being caught off guard by the sun setting far too early for you to catch any rays on your way home from work. So let's just cut to the chase: I've spent a whole lot of time with the iPhone 8 over the past few weeks, and I can absolutely, unequivocally say that it's totally worth it to make the switch.
My iPhone 6s has treated me well - we've spent a full two years together, after all - and while it's definitely on its last legs, the perfect case-and-screen-protector combo (found after years of intense trial and regrettable error) enabled me to skip last year's upgrade cycle. Full disclosure: I wasn't completely sold by the 7 and hadn't really been able to muster the enthusiasm needed to drag myself to the store to get a device that was eerily similar to the one that I had spent hours Candy Crushing on as I waited in line. But the 8, however. . . the 8 is worth that waiting and that line. Don't just take my (evidence free) word for it, though. Below, I've pulled together the five features that truly swayed me after getting the iPhone 8 into my hands - and, bonus, I promise you won't encounter any of that overly technical reviewspeak that tends to hijack even the most helpful of guides.
The Price
First, some real talk: anyone who says that they're totally OK with throwing down hundreds of dollars for something they don't actually love is probably lying. Second, with a starting price of $699, the iPhone 8 definitely still costs a lot - but it doesn't cross into that over-a-thousand-what-am-I-doing territory. The biggest selling point for me was being able to more effectively use the features that were introduced with iOS 11, like augmented reality (see below), but didn't quite run right on my older-model phone. In other words: you can get a whole hell of a lot more memory and a stronger processor with the 8, and it actually feels like an upgrade - so that makes the price tag worth it. And again, as much as we all desperately want the gorgeous beauty that is the X . . . the 8 feels like a different enough phone to make you feel pretty good about not spending all your savings in one fell swoop.
Augmented Reality
As I mentioned, as soon as iOS 11 rolled out, I was ON IT. But with my 6s, I wasn't able to get the sort of magic that I was expecting. With the 8, it actually makes AR feel natural and part of your everyday life - something I've never quite felt with VR. From games to home design to the most incredible photo and video editing that makes you feel like you're living in the future, the iPhone 8 has the processor that makes it feel like something that truly could be the future technology (at long last!) To get a sense of what I'm talking about, check out this rundown of my favorite apps and games that I dug into with my trusty iPhone 8.
Wireless Charging
I'll be honest: I was one of those people who figured that there was a good reason behind why wireless charging took so long to roll out and had kind of accepted that it was not an essential feature. Consider me schooled, though. Saying goodbye to annoyingly rooting behind my couch, beside my bed, and in drawers full of cords to find the right one that hadn't frayed and fit the current model - that has been one of the most cathartic things about the whole experience. Being able to calmly place my phone on a delightfully space-aged disc to bring it back to life has made me a much calmer person on a daily basis - and means that I'm not always fighting with my boyfriend for custody of the one Lightning cable in our living room. Bonus: being able to choose to charge things manually is great, too.
True Tone
I have no clue how it is that Apple was able to get this feature to be so damn perfect, but my eyes are eternally grateful for the fact that looking at my phone is now so much more pleasant. True Tone at first is somewhat disorienting - it looks totally different than what you're used to, and you keep wanting to change it back - but it means that I'm finally looking at a Retina screen with the level of brightness that it's supposed to have (and not just guessing based on some Yahoo! Answers response I read like four years ago). Reading has never been so pleasant on a mobile device - full stop.
The Camera
As someone who has always had relatively jittery hands, it's always been a bit of a challenge to get the perfect shot on the first try. As a result, I'm constantly having to go back and delete the 249 other versions of the photo that are slightly blurry before I'm able to isolate the perfect photo. No longer! The image stabilization definitely comes in handy (especially when I'm on the run, or want to take video) and let's be honest: every iPhone camera is successively better. The colors are brighter, the light is handled better, and frankly, I'm using a whole hell of a lot less memory. This is the one point on which I knew I'd be sold (I always am!), but it was still a pleasant surprise that I was as impressed with this latest camera upgrade as I was.
The Best New Starbucks Products of the Year - So Far
Nothing sparks joy quite like spotting a new Starbucks item on the menu, and we've tried everything announced this year - so far. From creative new lattes to new favorite on-the-go breakfasts and, as always, new secret menu items, there's something for every craving and every level of caffeine need. Read ahead to catch up on everything Starbucks has released in 2017, and be sure to check back as we update our post with more of the best items throughout the year.
Newsflash: THIS Is How You Should Actually Be Cutting Your Round Cakes
Well, it looks like we've been cutting our birthday cakes the wrong way all this time. The viral video above has brought our wrongdoing to the light of day and provides us with an unexpected alternative - one that involves rectangular slices instead of the tried-and-true triangular ones. Mathematician Alex Bellos begins the clip by explaining that cutting a cake into wedges causes the sugary dessert to dry out if left in the refrigerator overnight. Instead, he advises making your first slice right down the middle so you can push the cut halves back together to preserve your leftovers' moistness overnight - because there's nothing more disappointing than a dried-out cake!
Watch the video above to see Bellos describe why it's about time you adopt this scientifically proven cutting method. You'll definitely want to add this genius tip to your list of must-know food hacks.
The 5 Features That Make Upgrading to iPhone 8 Totally Worth It
Agonizing over whether or not to upgrade your iPhone has become a ritual of Fall. At first, it was all about timing your two-year contract period to end right at the moment the new one came out. Now that we've (generally) moved past that in phone plan land, however it's all about whether or not you think the newest features are worth shelling out for. As a result, scrolling through endless reviews with your Autumn-flavored latte in hand is just about as common as apple picking or being caught off guard by the sun setting far too early for you to catch any rays on your way home from work. So let's just cut to the chase: I've spent a whole lot of time with the iPhone 8 over the past few weeks, and I can absolutely, unequivocally say that it's totally worth it to make the switch.
My iPhone 6s has treated me well - we've spent a full two years together, after all - and while it's definitely on its last legs, the perfect case-and-screen-protector combo (found after years of intense trial and regrettable error) enabled me to skip last year's upgrade cycle. Full disclosure: I wasn't completely sold by the 7 and hadn't really been able to muster the enthusiasm needed to drag myself to the store to get a device that was eerily similar to the one that I had spent hours Candy Crushing on as I waited in line. But the 8, however. . . the 8 is worth that waiting and that line. Don't just take my (evidence free) word for it, though. Below, I've pulled together the five features that truly swayed me after getting the iPhone 8 into my hands - and, bonus, I promise you won't encounter any of that overly technical reviewspeak that tends to hijack even the most helpful of guides.
The Price
First, some real talk: anyone who says that they're totally OK with throwing down hundreds of dollars for something they don't actually love is probably lying. Second, with a starting price of $699, the iPhone 8 definitely still costs a lot - but it doesn't cross into that over-a-thousand-what-am-I-doing territory. The biggest selling point for me was being able to more effectively use the features that were introduced with iOS 11, like augmented reality (see below), but didn't quite run right on my older-model phone. In other words: you can get a whole hell of a lot more memory and a stronger processor with the 8, and it actually feels like an upgrade - so that makes the price tag worth it. And again, as much as we all desperately want the gorgeous beauty that is the X . . . the 8 feels like a different enough phone to make you feel pretty good about not spending all your savings in one fell swoop.
Augmented Reality
As I mentioned, as soon as iOS 11 rolled out, I was ON IT. But with my 6s, I wasn't able to get the sort of magic that I was expecting. With the 8, it actually makes AR feel natural and part of your everyday life - something I've never quite felt with VR. From games to home design to the most incredible photo and video editing that makes you feel like you're living in the future, the iPhone 8 has the processor that makes it feel like something that truly could be the future technology (at long last!) To get a sense of what I'm talking about, check out this rundown of my favorite apps and games that I dug into with my trusty iPhone 8.
Wireless Charging
I'll be honest: I was one of those people who figured that there was a good reason behind why wireless charging took so long to roll out and had kind of accepted that it was not an essential feature. Consider me schooled, though. Saying goodbye to annoyingly rooting behind my couch, beside my bed, and in drawers full of cords to find the right one that hadn't frayed and fit the current model - that has been one of the most cathartic things about the whole experience. Being able to calmly place my phone on a delightfully space-aged disc to bring it back to life has made me a much calmer person on a daily basis - and means that I'm not always fighting with my boyfriend for custody of the one Lightning cable in our living room. Bonus: being able to choose to charge things manually is great, too.
True Tone
I have no clue how it is that Apple was able to get this feature to be so damn perfect, but my eyes are eternally grateful for the fact that looking at my phone is now so much more pleasant. True Tone at first is somewhat disorienting - it looks totally different than what you're used to, and you keep wanting to change it back - but it means that I'm finally looking at a Retina screen with the level of brightness that it's supposed to have (and not just guessing based on some Yahoo! Answers response I read like four years ago). Reading has never been so pleasant on a mobile device - full stop.
The Camera
As someone who has always had relatively jittery hands, it's always been a bit of a challenge to get the perfect shot on the first try. As a result, I'm constantly having to go back and delete the 249 other versions of the photo that are slightly blurry before I'm able to isolate the perfect photo. No longer! The image stabilization definitely comes in handy (especially when I'm on the run, or want to take video) and let's be honest: every iPhone camera is successively better. The colors are brighter, the light is handled better, and frankly, I'm using a whole hell of a lot less memory. This is the one point on which I knew I'd be sold (I always am!), but it was still a pleasant surprise that I was as impressed with this latest camera upgrade as I was.
Jennifer Lopez's Sex Appeal in Her New "Amor, Amor, Amor" Music Video Is Off the Charts
Jennifer Lopez just released her new single "Amor, Amor, Amor" feat. Wisin and took it one step further by putting out the music video at the same time. Jenny goes back to the block with this one since it was filmed in New York City, specifically in the subway. Jennifer continued her sexy streak, dancing in a Guess crop top and black leather pants with her hair whipping back and forth. Check out the video as a quick reminder of how good Jennifer Lopez is at putting on a show.
Here's What - and When - to Eat Before Working Out
When it comes to working out, it's important to feel energized, but it's not always as simple as grabbing a snack on your way out the door. Eating too close to exercise is a recipe for discomfort, but heading to the gym hungry isn't ideal either.
To learn how to maximize the potential of a workout, I spoke with nutritionist Heidi Skolnik, MS, CDN, FACSM, and author of Nutrient Timing for Peak Performance ($20) to find out what to eat and when before heading to the gym.
Mom's Note to Stranger at McDonald's Who Got Involved When Her Toddler Wouldn't "Go Potty"
A stranger in a McDonald's bathroom overheard a typical fight between a mom and her toddler: the Kansas parent was trying to reason with her 3-year-old to pee before they left to get back in the car.
The stranger listened in as Tiffany Miller tried to explain to her daughter that it was a long drive home and she had to use the potty before they left. She also heard the child explain that she was afraid the toilet was going to flush while she was sitting on it. Despite her mother promising to block the sensor and prevent it from flushing, the little girl wouldn't comply, and promised to make it through the drive home without having an accident.
In a heartfelt thank you to this stranger posted on her Facebook, Tiffany explained what happened when the woman decided to step in. "You told her you would give her a bracelet if she would go potty for Mommy. She perked up and agreed," Tiffany wrote. "I turned to quickly put her on the potty (before she changed her mind). You told her the bracelet would be waiting outside the stall for her. I turned to say thank you, but you were already gone."
When the child finished using the bathroom she found a bracelet and a candy bar waiting outside her stall. "Her eyes lit up as she put the bracelet on after using the bathroom," Tiffany wrote. "We made it home to Wichita safely and she is currently sleeping soundly next to me . . . still wearing the bracelet."
Although the woman was gone before Tiffany could catch her name, she's grateful for this stranger's act of kindness: "I wish I could have thanked you in person, but maybe you will see this. If not, hopefully it inspires someone else to be kind like you were."
This post was originally published on Jan. 30, 2017.
Prepare to Cringe Watching Donald Trump Say "Puerto Rico" in a Fake Accent
In case you missed it, Donald Trump "loves Hispanics" - so much so, in fact, that while discussing Puerto Rico at the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at the White House on Friday, Oct. 6, the president decided to completely butcher the pronunciation of the disaster-ravaged island in front of a room full of Latino leaders. You know . . . because of the love.
The moment in question came during President Trump's speech at the White House, when he proclaimed - with an affected accent - that "we love Puerto Rico." Putting a heavy emphasis on the "Pu" in "Puerto Rico," Trump repeated his awful pronunciation of the US territory's name not once, not twice, but three times, concluding the performance with a self-satisfied smile and reverting back to his Americanized pronunciation of the name. Give it a watch below:
Pres. Trump: "PUerto Rico. We love PUerto Rico. And we also love Puerto Rico." http://pic.twitter.com/3fbzGvybd4
- Dan Linden (@DanLinden) October 6, 2017
While the moment garnered chuckles from attendees at the speech, it didn't take long for Trump's presumed mockery of the Spanish language and Puerto Rican people to spark heavy criticism online.
Despite his claims of loving the territory, Trump has spent plenty of the time since Puerto Rico was devastated by Hurricane Maria insulting its leaders and complaining about relief costs affecting his budget. Luckily for the US citizens in need of lifesaving supplies, at least there are former presidents and celebrities who are spending time raising money for Puerto Rico instead of butchering its pronunciation.
20 Photos to Convince You That, Yes, You Should Get Bangs For Fall
If you're one of those people who constantly question whether you should get bangs or not, you've come to the right place. Yes, they can be a commitment (hello, awkward growing-out phase), but they can also totally refresh your look. Just a few snips and, bam, you're a new person. To prove just how versatile fringes can be on different hair types, we rounded up 20 celebrities who've tried bangs and looked incredible. Trust us, after scrolling through these, you'll be booking your next salon appointment stat.
Prepare to Swoon Over These Stunning Ulta Beauty Gifts
If you love beauty shopping, you know that it's hard to top Ulta Beauty. You can get everything from your drugstore essentials and prestige favorites to an incredible haircut at the one-stop shop! But this holiday season, we're swinging by to snap up the retailer's excellent gift offerings. From a Kardashian-approved highlighter to a matte liquid lip set, there are plenty of pretty treats to satisfy every single craving of the gals on your gifting list.
NYX Just Casually Released the Lipstick-Filled Advent Calendar of Your Freakin' Dreams!
It's not even Thanksgiving yet, and we've already got the holiday season on our minds, thanks to NYX Cosmetics. The beauty brand just went all Santa Claus on us by releasing a gorgeous range of holiday goodies, including a freakin' lipstick-filled Advent calendar - yes, really. We thought regular ol' chocolate-filled seasonal calendars were pretty cool, but NYX's version is so much more festive.
The Lippie Countdown Advent Calendar is jam-packed with 24 bold, bright lip products for every day of the holiday season, including fan favorites like its silky Butter Gloss and Soft Matte Lip Creams, to name a few. The calendar opens up like a book to reveal 24 lip-shaped graphics for each day of the month leading up to Christmas. Good luck resisting the urge to open just one slot each day!
This glorious Advent calendar is now available at both NYX Cosmetics and Ulta for just $65, which averages out to roughly $3 per product - what a steal! Ahead, catch a glimpse of the limited-edition box of holiday products, and prepare to grab your credit card faster than you can say, "Ho ho ho!"
Prepare to Cringe Watching Donald Trump Say "Puerto Rico" in a Fake Accent
In case you missed it, Donald Trump "loves Hispanics" - so much so, in fact, that while discussing Puerto Rico at the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at the White House on Friday, Oct. 6, the president decided to completely butcher the pronunciation of the disaster-ravaged island in front of a room full of Latino leaders. You know . . . because of the love.
The moment in question came during President Trump's speech at the White House, when he proclaimed - with an affected accent - that "we love Puerto Rico." Putting a heavy emphasis on the "Pu" in "Puerto Rico," Trump repeated his awful pronunciation of the US territory's name not once, not twice, but three times, concluding the performance with a self-satisfied smile and reverting back to his Americanized pronunciation of the name. Give it a watch below:
Pres. Trump: "PUerto Rico. We love PUerto Rico. And we also love Puerto Rico." http://pic.twitter.com/3fbzGvybd4
- Dan Linden (@DanLinden) October 6, 2017
While the moment garnered chuckles from attendees at the speech, it didn't take long for Trump's presumed mockery of the Spanish language and Puerto Rican people to spark heavy criticism online.
Despite his claims of loving the territory, Trump has spent plenty of the time since Puerto Rico was devastated by Hurricane Maria insulting its leaders and complaining about relief costs affecting his budget. Luckily for the US citizens in need of lifesaving supplies, at least there are former presidents and celebrities who are spending time raising money for Puerto Rico instead of butchering its pronunciation.
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