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.
jeudi 16 novembre 2017
Could Kate Middleton's Faux Lob Be a Hint Of to What's to Come?
It's no secret that we're all pretty obsessed with Kate Middleton's hair, and her most recent look is no different. During the Duchess's recent appearance at the Remembrance Sunday service on Nov. 12, she debuted a new updo that we can't help but speculate is practice for an upcoming dramatic cut.
She was seen on the balcony with the Countess of Wessex sporting a carefully coiled faux bob under her hat. If you're familiar with the hair conspiracy theory that Kate debuts a new style before a big event, such as having a baby, she may well be practicing before she decides to get the chop for real.
Whether she's testing out the new length ahead of royal baby number three's arrival, or just trying out a faux bob for fun, we're as obsessed with this look as we are all her other styles.
The Tarte Palette of Your Dreams + 23 More Holiday 2017 Beauty Launches
September and October are when the key players in the beauty industry start breaking out some of their biggest, baddest, and quickest-to-sell-out products, and because we quite literally couldn't contain ourselves, we've convinced some of our favorite brands to give us a sneak peek at all the glory that's to come. From that Tarte palette we foreshadowed (yes, it's that wonderful) to the Jo Malone set representing all of your beauty #housegoals, and plenty of snowflake and snowman-clad, limited-edition goodies in between, read on for 24 items we'll be adding to our holiday lists. The good news: some of it's already hitting stores. Merry Autumn!
13 Miracle-Working Night Creams For Women in Their 20s (All Under $55!)
Night is a cherished time for your skin. It's when you slow down and give your body's largest organ a break from exposure to the elements, allowing it to restore and repair itself. Of course, there are some top-notch moisturizers you can (and should) use to help the process along. While not everyone has the income for La Mer - including this editor - there are options for every budget. Before you slip between the sheets at night, consider grabbing one of these affordable buys from Sephora or Ulta. They're all under $55, and they're all packed with ingredients that will help your skin heal while you catch some much-needed zzz's.
This Weasley Sweater Wine Cozy DIY Is the PERFECT Gift For Harry Potter Lovers
Wine, Harry Potter, and the holidays. If these are a few of your favorite things, then this DIY will be right up your (Diagon) alley. In the Harry Potter books, each Christmas, Mrs. Weasley hand-knits sweaters for her children and Harry, so we came up with the perfect craft to bring that festive aspect of the series to life. These Weasley sweater wine cozies make the perfect gifts, party favors, or hostess presents for the holiday season, and they don't require any fancy spell work to make them look magical. Check out the easy DIY, and if you need more Harry Potter DIY inspiration, try making some Golden Snitch ornaments. See all the Harry Potter holiday ideas here!
This Gretchen Grundler Body Paint Will Amaze You With Nostalgia
Gretchen Grundler Transformation! My favourite recess character! from MakeupAddiction
If you grew up in the early aughts, chances are Gretchen Grundler is your favorite fictional know-it-all. The Recess character and yo-yo enthusiast was practically an icon of preteen feminism due to her unabashed intellect and quietly badass nature. If you recall, girlfriend was smarter than most of her teachers.
One Redditor who goes by the handle @summakeup just did a makeup look that's worthy of Gretchen's near-perfection. After seeing this crazy-good bodypainting, you'll probably feel very nostalgic.
According to @summakeup, this extremely realistic look took about three to four hours to accomplish. While the photo might make you do a double take at first, zoom in and try to spot any editing . . . you won't be able to find it.
As @summakeup wrote in the comments section of her post, one of her biggest tricks for completing this look includes using black paint to "block out areas" she doesn't need, and shooting her final photos in front of a black backdrop. That all factors into achieving Gretchen's absurdly skinny cartoon frame.
We're in total awe of this transformation, and will keep our eyes peeled for more of @summakeup's work - who wouldn't love to see a Helga G. Pataki look?
You NEED These Adorable Harry Potter Book Cover Ornaments on Your Tree
Asking someone to pick their favorite Harry Potter book is kind of like asking someone to pick their favorite child. In short, it's a really tough decision, and the best answer is that you love them all equally but in different ways. So instead of picking just ONE Harry Potter book to represent your love of the series, make a complete seven-book set of adorable Potter-inspired DIY cover ornaments that will make your tree look magical. If you want to go all out with a full-on Harry Potter Christmas (and you should), then we've got you MAJORLY covered.
Becca's New Highlighter Palette Just Dropped - Here's How to Use It
Chances are, we don't need to tell you how great Becca's highlighters are. From its mini powders to its shiny lip glosses, the beauty-girl-favorite brand is beloved for giving users an out-of-this-world glow. So get out your wallets, because there's a new, limited-edition Becca palette in town - and it's going to light you up something fierce.
But as with adding any new release into your rotation, there may be a learning curve. The Becca Light Waves Palette ($34), which includes three Shimmering Skin Perfectors, might take a little getting used to. The hues are Moonstone, a gold; Prismatic Amethyst, a lavender; and the brand-new, exclusive-to-Light Waves Pink Sapphire, a chrome peach.
How, exactly, do you get these powders to look as pretty on your face as the colors do in the pans? Becca Global Style Director Kerry Cole gave us some ideas for getting the most out of Light Waves. According to Cole, Moonstone looks great when applied wet on the cheekbones or as a base eye shadow coat. She also loves layering Prismatic Amethyst over a colored lip gloss or swiping it over the tip of a wet coat of mascara for a frosty, textured lash look. Cole recommends using the newbie Pink Sapphire as a topcoat for your favorite blush. She also advised applying it over a clear lip gloss, because it omits a twinkling pop of pink that's the stuff Winter princess dreams are made of.
Of course, this is all just a road map; the final look is up to you, and (as always) experimentation is encouraged! But you won't be able to play around forever - like we said, this palette is limited edition, so sweep it up while you can.
66 Tried-and-Tested Tips For a Frugal Life
It's easy to say that you want to save more money. It's harder to actually implement that. Living a frugal life calls for a lifestyle change and a conscious awareness of how you're spending and saving. It also requires a certain know-how. Learn these tried-and-tested frugal tips from fellow scrimpers cited in Reddit's subsection for frugal people.
The 5 Things You Need to Stop Believing About Lifting Heavy Weights
When you take a look around the weight room, men almost always take up the space. We've been conditioned to believe that guys like to pump weights while women go for a run or do yoga. This is a dangerous stereotype to believe; there are some serious benefits to be earned from lifting weights on the regular, especially if you're a woman. Whether you're trying to lose weight or grow some lean muscle, it's time to get friendly with that barbell. Let's start by debunking some common myths.
Myth 1: Weightlifting Makes You Bulk Up
"Most women don't have enough testosterone production in their body to put on huge muscle gains and 'get big,'" explained Lauren Clare, personal trainer and certified holistic health coach. That's because women have way less testosterone in their systems than men do (20 times less, to be exact), and testosterone is one of the primary hormones that promotes muscle growth. So when you see those big, bulky guys at the gym, don't panic, because it's not physically possible for you to turn into the Hulk from a strength-training routine.
Similarly, Clare discourages us from believing the photos you might see in bodybuilding magazines. The buff women you are seeing are taking supplements and training extremely hard, she told POPSUGAR. You won't end up anything like that, even if you lift weights several times a week.
Myth 2: Weightlifting Doesn't Burn Fat Like Cardio Does
If you're only running on the treadmill or hitting the StairMaster, you're not giving your body the tools it needs to burn fat efficiently. The secret to losing weight is gaining lean muscle mass, because this will spike your metabolism throughout the day and help your body burn excess fat. However, sticking to a cardio-only fitness program won't give you the chance to build that necessary muscle, which is why weightlifting is so crucial to overall weight loss.
"When women start strength training for the first time, they usually turn their fat into lean muscle and their body changes in overall composition in a positive way," Clare confirmed. "They become leaner, burn more calories, and most importantly feel much stronger."
Myth 3: It Won't Improve Your Cardiovascular Health
Experts say that a rigorous weightlifting program can be just as much of an aerobic workout as a session on the elliptical machine. Weightlifting also keeps your heart healthy, and Clare said it fortifies your bones as well. Cardio isn't the only way to keep your cardiovascular health in check.
Myth 4: Women Aren't Built to Lift Heavy Weights
You may have been conditioned to think that women aren't meant to lift heavy weights, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Your body is built to do amazing things, and more importantly, it's built to be strong. "Weight training is one of the best ways to get your body toner, stronger, and increase your energy levels," Clare said. This is true no matter what gender you are.
Myth 5: It's Better to Lift Light Weights For More Reps
While there's nothing wrong with lifting light weights for higher reps, keep in mind that the only way you actually gain muscle in your body is by consistently introducing your muscles to change. In other words, if you stick with the same low weights over and over again, your body will plateau out and you won't see any significant weight loss. The more you shock your muscles into getting stronger, the leaner you'll look in the end.
25 Holiday-Scented Beauty Products That Will Make You Hungry Just Reading This
It's the moment all basic ladies have been waiting for: the moment we put away the tropical scents and dive head first into Fall (also known as the gateway to all things holiday). No amount of pumpkin spice proves too much as we attempt to turn our own houses into apple- and plum-scented enchanted forests.
We're getting intoxicated just writing about it, which is why we're excited to present to you a comprehensive gallery of all the holiday-scented hair, skin, and body products we could get our hands on.
From cider-drunk hand soaps to creamy, vanilla-drenched body lotions (and plenty of pine- and spruce-trimmed candles in between), read on for 25 products that will support your festive spirit from Fall harvest to New Year's, and sneak peek more holiday 2017 beauty offerings here.
22 Airport Hacks to Remember Before Your Next Flight
Traveling is always a fun and exciting experience, but getting through the airport can be a struggle. If it happens to be an unlucky day, you'll get stuck with long lines, rude airport security officials, or delayed flights. Luckily with just a little bit of research, there are many ways you can make your journey faster and more comfortable. We rounded up all the tips and tricks so you don't have to! Learn to navigate airports like a pro with the advice here. You'll be surprised how much time and money you end up saving.
A Comprehensive Guide to Every Gorgeous Braid From Pinterest
Grab your teasing combs and your dry shampoo - Braid 101 is in session. There are so many different plaits out there, and we admit we can only do half of them. Browsing our Instagram feeds, we often run into two emotions: total braid envy and plait perplexity.
Seriously, just looking at some of these styles makes our brains hurt (over then under, or under then over?). It can be as simple as a basic dutch version or as complex as a five-strand plait. No wonder "braids" is one of the top searched topics on the Internet. Everyone wants to master the new trendy style before a new one is invented. So, we've broken down every plait (with gorgeous real-girl pictures and tutorials) to inspire you to go back to beauty school.
mercredi 15 novembre 2017
Here Are the 2017 Latin Grammy Awards Nominees!
The 2017 Latin Grammy Awards will air on Nov. 16 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, and since this year has been a big one for Latin music - have you heard of a little known song called "Despacito" by any chance? - the competition is tough. The nominations are now in, and while some of the categories are full of expected contenders, like Ricky Martin, Shakira, Maluma, Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, and Juanes, others feature some surprising names. See the full list of nominees below, and before you ask, yes, that is Justin Bieber under the best urban fusion performance category.
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Salsa Big Band by Rubén Blades and Roberto Delgado & Orquesta
Obras Son Amores by Antonio Carmona
A La Mar by Vicente García
Fénix by Nicky Jam
Mis Planes Son Amarte by Juanes
La Trenza by Mon Laferte
Musas (Un Homenaje Al Folclore Latinoamericano En Manos De Los Macorinos, Vol. 1) by Natalia Lafourcade
Residente by Residente
El Dorado by Shakira
Palabras Manuales by Danay Suarez
RECORD OF THE YEAR
"La Flor De La Canela" by Rubén Blades
"El Surco" by Jorge Drexler
"Quiero Que Vuelvas" by Alejandro Fernández
"Despacito" by Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee
"El Ratico" by Juanes feat. Kali Uchis
"Amárrame" by Mon Laferte feat. Juanes
"Felices Los 4" by Maluma
"Vente Pa' Ca" by Ricky Martin feat. Maluma
"Guerra" by Residente
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma
BEST NEW ARTIST
Paula Arenas
CNCO
Vicente García
Martina La Peligrosa
Mau y Ricky
Rawayana
Sofía Reyes
Rosalía
Danay Suarez
Sebastián Yatra
BEST CONTEMPORARY POP VOCAL ALBUM
Hijos Del Mar by David Bisbal
Rompiendo Fronteras by Alejandro Fernández
Flora y Fauna by Camila Luna
El Dorado by Shakira
Extended Play Yatra by Sebastián Yatra
BEST URBAN FUSION PERFORMANCE
"Si Tu Novio Te Deja Sola" by J. Balvin feat. Bad Bunny
"Despacito" (Remix) by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee feat. Justin Bieber
"El Amante" by Nicky Jam
"Dagombas En Tamale" by Residente
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma
BEST ALTERNATIVE MUSIC ALBUM
Jei Beibi by Café Tacvba
Apocalipsis Zombi by El Cuarteto de Nos
La Trenza by Mon Laferte
La Promesa De Thamar by Sig Ragga
Palabras Manuales by Danay Suarez
BEST MPB (MÚSICA POPULAR BRASILEIRA) ALBUM
Dos Navegantes by Edu Lobo, Romero Lubambo, and Mauro Senise
DNA Musical by Alexandre Pires
Silva Canta Marisa by Silva
Até Pensei Que Fosse Minha by António Zambujo
Zanna by Zanna
SONG OF THE YEAR (A SONGWRITER'S AWARD)
"Amárrame" by Mon Laferte feat. Juanes (Mon Laferte)
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma (Kevin Mauricio Jiménez Londoño, Bryan Snaider Lezcano Chaverra, Joel Antonio López Castro, Maluma and Shakira)
"Desde Que Estamos Juntos" by Melendi (Descemer Bueno and Melendi)
"Despacito" by Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee (Daddy Yankee, Erika Ender and Luis Fonsi)
"Ella" by Ricardo Arjona (Ricardo Arjona)
"Felices Los 4" by Maluma (Mario Cáceres, Kevin Mauricio Jiménez Londoño, Maluma, Servando Primera, Stiven Rojas and Bryan Snaider Lezcano Chaverra)
"Guerra" by Residente (Residente and Jeff Trooko)
"La Fortuna" by Diana Fuentes feat. Tommy Torres (Diana Fuentes and Tommy Torres)
"Tú Sí Sabes Quererme" by Natalia Lafourcade feat. Los Macorinos (Natalia Lafourcade)
"Vente Pa' Ca" by Ricky Martin feat. Maluma (Nermin Harambasic, Maluma, Ricky Martin, Mauricio Montaner, Ricky Montaner, Lars Pedersen, Carl Ryden, Justin Stein, Ronny Vidar Svendsen and Anne Judith Stokke Wik)
BEST REGIONAL SONG (A SONGWRITER'S AWARD)
"Compromiso Descartado" by Leonardo Aguilar (Espinoza Paz)
"Ganas De Volver" by Horacio Palencia (Horacio Palencia)
"Sentimiento Emborrachado" by Santiago Arroyo (Raúl Jiménez E. and Chucho Rincón)
"Siempre Es Así" by Juan Treviño feat. AJ Castillo (Juan Treviño)
"Vale La Pena" by Banda El Recodo de Cruz Lizárraga(Edgar Barrera, Martín Castro Ortega and Alfonso Lizárraga)
Here Are the 2017 Latin Grammy Awards Nominees!
The 2017 Latin Grammy Awards will air on Nov. 16 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, and since this year has been a big one for Latin music - have you heard of a little known song called "Despacito" by any chance? - the competition is tough. The nominations are now in, and while some of the categories are full of expected contenders, like Ricky Martin, Shakira, Maluma, Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, and Juanes, others feature some surprising names. See the full list of nominees below, and before you ask, yes, that is Justin Bieber under the best urban fusion performance category.
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Salsa Big Band by Rubén Blades and Roberto Delgado & Orquesta
Obras Son Amores by Antonio Carmona
A La Mar by Vicente García
Fénix by Nicky Jam
Mis Planes Son Amarte by Juanes
La Trenza by Mon Laferte
Musas (Un Homenaje Al Folclore Latinoamericano En Manos De Los Macorinos, Vol. 1) by Natalia Lafourcade
Residente by Residente
El Dorado by Shakira
Palabras Manuales by Danay Suarez
RECORD OF THE YEAR
"La Flor De La Canela" by Rubén Blades
"El Surco" by Jorge Drexler
"Quiero Que Vuelvas" by Alejandro Fernández
"Despacito" by Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee
"El Ratico" by Juanes feat. Kali Uchis
"Amárrame" by Mon Laferte feat. Juanes
"Felices Los 4" by Maluma
"Vente Pa' Ca" by Ricky Martin feat. Maluma
"Guerra" by Residente
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma
BEST NEW ARTIST
Paula Arenas
CNCO
Vicente García
Martina La Peligrosa
Mau y Ricky
Rawayana
Sofía Reyes
Rosalía
Danay Suarez
Sebastián Yatra
BEST CONTEMPORARY POP VOCAL ALBUM
Hijos Del Mar by David Bisbal
Rompiendo Fronteras by Alejandro Fernández
Flora y Fauna by Camila Luna
El Dorado by Shakira
Extended Play Yatra by Sebastián Yatra
BEST URBAN FUSION PERFORMANCE
"Si Tu Novio Te Deja Sola" by J. Balvin feat. Bad Bunny
"Despacito" (Remix) by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee feat. Justin Bieber
"El Amante" by Nicky Jam
"Dagombas En Tamale" by Residente
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma
BEST ALTERNATIVE MUSIC ALBUM
Jei Beibi by Café Tacvba
Apocalipsis Zombi by El Cuarteto de Nos
La Trenza by Mon Laferte
La Promesa De Thamar by Sig Ragga
Palabras Manuales by Danay Suarez
BEST MPB (MÚSICA POPULAR BRASILEIRA) ALBUM
Dos Navegantes by Edu Lobo, Romero Lubambo, and Mauro Senise
DNA Musical by Alexandre Pires
Silva Canta Marisa by Silva
Até Pensei Que Fosse Minha by António Zambujo
Zanna by Zanna
SONG OF THE YEAR (A SONGWRITER'S AWARD)
"Amárrame" by Mon Laferte feat. Juanes (Mon Laferte)
"Chantaje" by Shakira feat. Maluma (Kevin Mauricio Jiménez Londoño, Bryan Snaider Lezcano Chaverra, Joel Antonio López Castro, Maluma and Shakira)
"Desde Que Estamos Juntos" by Melendi (Descemer Bueno and Melendi)
"Despacito" by Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee (Daddy Yankee, Erika Ender and Luis Fonsi)
"Ella" by Ricardo Arjona (Ricardo Arjona)
"Felices Los 4" by Maluma (Mario Cáceres, Kevin Mauricio Jiménez Londoño, Maluma, Servando Primera, Stiven Rojas and Bryan Snaider Lezcano Chaverra)
"Guerra" by Residente (Residente and Jeff Trooko)
"La Fortuna" by Diana Fuentes feat. Tommy Torres (Diana Fuentes and Tommy Torres)
"Tú Sí Sabes Quererme" by Natalia Lafourcade feat. Los Macorinos (Natalia Lafourcade)
"Vente Pa' Ca" by Ricky Martin feat. Maluma (Nermin Harambasic, Maluma, Ricky Martin, Mauricio Montaner, Ricky Montaner, Lars Pedersen, Carl Ryden, Justin Stein, Ronny Vidar Svendsen and Anne Judith Stokke Wik)
BEST REGIONAL SONG (A SONGWRITER'S AWARD)
"Compromiso Descartado" by Leonardo Aguilar (Espinoza Paz)
"Ganas De Volver" by Horacio Palencia (Horacio Palencia)
"Sentimiento Emborrachado" by Santiago Arroyo (Raúl Jiménez E. and Chucho Rincón)
"Siempre Es Así" by Juan Treviño feat. AJ Castillo (Juan Treviño)
"Vale La Pena" by Banda El Recodo de Cruz Lizárraga(Edgar Barrera, Martín Castro Ortega and Alfonso Lizárraga)
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!
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.
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.
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.
8 Simple Ways to Manage Seasonal Depression
Wintertime can bring holiday cheer, but it can also bring an onslaught of moodiness, loss of energy, and downright depression. Sometimes, symptoms are severe enough to require treatment; this cyclical and seasonal depression is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. Women between the ages of 15 and 55 are most at risk for this condition that is literally "SAD" in its acronymic form.
Whether you have mild symptoms that need a boost or a more serious bout of seasonal blues, these tips and tricks can help mitigate the effects of wintertime sadness (and we think tip eight might be most crucial!).
Want a Tighter Butt? Then You Better Start Doing This
There was a lot of groaning happening during celebrity trainer Kit Rich's class; her mantra of the day seemed to be "just 10 more seconds, and get lower!" It didn't matter how pretty our location was - poolside at the W Los Angeles - every plea for 10 more seconds sounded like pure torture. That is until Kit explained the method behind her madness: "The lower you drop, the higher your butt." And who wouldn't want a natural butt lift?
It's a simple tip that Kit says women should apply to the basics of butt building - namely squats, lunges, and all their variations. Her advice is to do a set of squats or lunges as you normally would, but before you come out of that last rep, sink into the exercise a little deeper and hold there for five to 10 seconds, and then drop even lower, holding for another 10 seconds. But it doesn't end there - sink even lower, and now pulse for a count of 10. With every progression, Kit advises to maintain even breath and to check in with your form, especially being sure that your core and glutes are engaged and that your knees are behind your toes. "All of this will help you get through the progression easier," she says.
If you're ready for a little butt-lifting of your own, start with this how-to on doing a basic squat. Then, on the very last rep of each set, be sure to incorporate Kit's method for dropping it low!
Bath & Body Works Already Released Its Holiday Candles - Nice Knowin' Ya, Paycheck
No, this is not a drill, and no, you're not dreaming: Bath & Body Works has already started selling its holiday candles before we could even carve our freakin' pumpkins or decide on a Halloween costume. Because who cares about sticking to the seasons, am I right?
Bath & Body Works already made our nostrils do a happy dance by launching tons of new Fall candles back in August, and it has truly wasted no time with jumping headfirst into the upcoming Winter season. As soon as we realized that its holiday-scented candles were already available on store shelves and online, we (and various other candle addicts out there) could only muster up one reaction: full-on freaking out. (Well, and checking our bank accounts, too.)
Y'all, bath and body works has some of their Christmas candles out😍
- pumpkin pie ♡ (@Pumpkin_Prncess) October 9, 2017
Nothing makes me happier than buying holiday candles at Bath and Body Works!!!!
- Dani Travis (@DaniTraviss) October 6, 2017
christmas. candles. are. out. at. bath. and. body. works.
- meghan thomas (@meghanthomas_) October 9, 2017
The wintry three-wick candles include both new scents (like Campfire Donut, OMG) and tried-and-true fan favorites (like Frosted Cranberry and Fresh Balsam). Of course, each cozy candle is designed with supercute labels that make them the perfect desk or table decor. Plus, they all cost less than $25 each, so it's totally acceptable to snag three - or, let's be real, like four or five - of these in one trip.
It's truly never too early to get in the Christmas spirit, so read ahead to scope out your new favorite holiday scent. Can scratch-and-sniff computer screens just be a thing already?
You Haven't Lived Until You've Tried Sephora's 15 Bestselling Foundations
So many important factors go into buying (and falling in love with) a particular foundation. For starters, you need a hue that actually matches your unique skin tone. Then, you have to consider how it works with your skin type. You'll have to decide the type of finish and coverage you're seeking. And then there's a bevy of ingredients and skin care benefits to also take into consideration.
Needless to say, picking a foundation out isn't easy - especially if you prefer to shop online for beauty products. But this is why it's important to do research, and thanks to the millions of makeup-lovers who shop and review products on Sephora.com, the most complicated research is done for you.
If you're in the market for a new foundation, we've rounded up the bestselling options from Sephora.com. These top-tier complexion formulas have all been given a prestigious four or more stars by avid foundation-lovers, and include a variety of formulas for all preferences (including full cover, natural, and powder)! Keep reading to check them out.
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.
We're Not Lying When We Say You're Going to Love These Big Little Lies Gifts
While the world waits with bated breath to find out if season two of Big Little Lies is officially happening, we went ahead and found a few things to hold any big fan of the HBO hit over until then: the perfect Big Little Lies-themed gifts. From office supplies to clothing to accessories, we guarantee you'll find something special for yourself. And hey, while you're at it, why don't you purchase something for the big little liar in your life? It's what Madeline Martha Mackenzie would do, after all.
This $6 Pickle Ornament Has Gotten Rave Reviews, So It Must Be a Pretty Big "Dill"
Something about finding the ornament that just speaks to you feels like a huge accomplishment. And if you happen to be a serious pickle-lover - like, the kind of person who would undoubtedly try pickle soda - you might have thought the perfect ornament didn't exist. But, my friend, allow me to introduce you to this glass-blown pickle ornament ($6) available on Amazon. This isn't just any pickle ornament, either. It's "hand crafted in age-old tradition using techniques that originated in the 1800s," and as for how it's made, "Molten glass is mouth-blown into finely carved molds made exclusively for Old World Christmas," according to the product's description. Who knew a pickle ornament could be so . . . fancy?
Plus, this particular ornament has gotten rave reviews - seriously. The ornament has a 4.5-star rating out of more than 100 reviews on Amazon, with comments such as, "It is great quality and arrived safely in a very nice Christmas box," and, "This pickle was smaller than I expected, but it's very high quality. It's the first ornament I bought after moving into my new home, and I think I'll treasure it forever." So if you've found yourself in a pickle by not being able to find the perfect cucumber-shaped ornament, it looks like your search is over!
8 Things You Never Knew About Starbucks, Straight From a Former Employee
I spoke to a former Starbucks employee who worked there for about three years, and she gave me all the insider details I wanted to know. What's it really like to work there? Do baristas really rip off customers by intentionally underfilling lattes? What's the deal with the secret menu? Behold, her tell-all responses:
You can ask for light ice in your iced drinks to get way more for your money.
"If you order an iced drink, ask for light ice and you will get way more of whatever was in your cup."
And to save money on hot drinks, order it in a bigger cup.
That's right. You can order a grande latte "in a venti cup," and you'll basically be getting the larger drink for the smaller price. "Most baristas will be lazy and just make a lot of steamed milk and fill the bigger cup up all the way to the top."
The one thing that drives baristas INSANE is . . .
Saying, "Actually, can I get that cold?" after you've already ordered a hot drink. It's an inconvenience and someone has probably already started making your drink the way it was ordered.
Baristas are NOT asked to "underfill" lattes.
Although Starbucks faced a lawsuit for underfilling its lattes, this barista assures us that is not a company-endorsed policy for saving money. If your drink is less than impressive, the problem might be . . . you. She elaborated, "No one has ever said anything about that. I always filled my cups to the brim like we were told. But the truth is, most of the time if your drink sucks, you were probably rude to the barista and they didn't like you. So be kind!"
Employees receive great benefits.
"If you're full-time, you get dental and health insurance options. The one amazing thing I got from working there was my stock in Starbucks: over three years, I made about $400 when I finally sold my share."
If you love coffee, it's the best job.
You don't even have to be a morning person to enjoy working at Starbucks. "Making coffee is soothing, especially at 4 a.m. when all you want to do is stick your nose in the grounds and wake up." You also get to drink unlimited drinks - for free! This woman loved her Starbucks job and highly recommends working there: "I loved it very much. We were more of a family there," she said.
You CAN order from the secret menu, but it's discouraged.
You're probably aware that a not-so-secret Starbucks secret menu exists, but it's not something the company endorses. "Most of the time our managers didn't want us to make them because technically they're not on the menu. I didn't care about making them really, except when people got mad because it 'didn't taste the same as the other Starbucks.' Well, that would be because it's made-up, and there's no real way to make those drinks." So order your secret menu Frappuccinos with caution.
Starbucks really does donate all unsold food.
Ever wonder what happens to all those unsold pastries at the end of the day? Starbucks recently announced its plans to donate 100 percent of all leftover food to feed the hungry, and this former employee confirmed that her location has practiced this all along. "I know a lot of people think that's fake, but I personally packed the food and have seen it get picked up by different organizations. If you're in need of food, try asking your local Starbucks when they close."
If You're Holding a Plank For More Than 30 Seconds, It's Too Long - Here's Why
According to Guinness World Records, Mao Weidong holds the title of "longest time in an abdominal plank position," clocking in at 08:01:00. Eight hours. Imagine that. Imagine holding a plank the entire time you're at work, with one-third of your entire day spent in this challenging core move.
Here down on earth, the majority of humans are not chasing dreams of making it into Guinness World Records. But before you even attempt to see how long you can hold the exercise, it's important to consider the sweet spot to really get the most out of this move. Turns out, it's not that long at all. The ideal time to hold plank, according to Austin Lopez, CSCS and owner of Ausome Fit, is somewhere in the range of 20-30 seconds.
In order to be an effective core exercise, it should be completed as a "high-tension move," Austin told POPSUGAR. "Your glutes should be squeezed, pelvis rotated upward with a slight pull forward toward your hands. These will all add to the overall tension and work."
While holding it for more than 30 seconds doesn't present any major downfalls, it's just a waste of your time, he said. "The only real benefit you're going to be getting from holding a plank longer is increased shoulder endurance, but the point of a plank is to strengthen the core." You also risk an increased chance of losing good form as your body begins to tire and overcompensate in other areas.
Don't fret - if you are looking to challenge yourself in this move, focus on weight, not time. Austin suggests having a friend put a light sandbag or weighted plate on your back. This will be a major challenge to your strength, he said. "It is exponentially harder and will be worth the time spent on your elbows." If you're without a workout buddy, he suggests putting your toes on a Bosu or stability ball, which will also work wonders in challenging your core stability. Whatever option you choose, allow yourself time to complete three to four sets of 20- to 30-second planks.
Pack a Different Healthy Lunch Every Day This Month With Over 30 Fresh Recipe Ideas
The holidays are almost upon us, but don't lose sight of your healthy goals! Kick-start your healthiest season yet and bring clean, wholesome, nutritious lunches to work.
From warming Fall soups to fresh salads and mason jar bowls, you can chill, reheat, and pack - meaning these meals are totally office-ready. Best part? They're low-calorie, high-protein, and made with whole, natural ingredients. Who's hungry?
How to Balance Intermittent Fasting When You Love Intense Exercise
When it comes to wellness, balance is key: a night out followed by a day spent at home, an intense weightlifting session followed by a restorative yoga class, and a healthy meal finished off with a little sweetness.
The same applies when following a specific diet plan or workout regimen - in this case, intermittent fasting (IF), which dictates when you should - and shouldn't - be eating throughout the day. You may already know all the different kinds of IF and perhaps even some of the rules that apply to the process. But when it comes to the nitty-gritty of it all, how does it work?
I myself had a few questions regarding how to balance eating enough and exercising while doing IF. I've given the 16:8 method a try - that is, fasting for 16 hours of the day and giving yourself an eight-hour window to eat all your daily calories in - and found it difficult to find a happy medium of getting in my usual intense workout and managing to stay energized throughout the day.
Skipping breakfast left me sluggish and weak during morning workouts, and I would even find that I could just not eat enough food during my eight-hour eating window. I struggled to find the right eating and workout schedule for my life that also coexisted happily with IF. Luckily, quite a few experts exist - in the form of sports nutritionists, athletes, and the like - who had a few pieces of advice for this conundrum.
Consider Changing Your Eating or Exercise Schedule
From the outside, IF seems like a superstrict, regimented way to live - and to an extent, it is - but it also offers a lot of wiggle room to make your own rules. "The goal is to find the ideal time to exercise," Tiffany Houser, SoulCycle instructor and lifestyle coach, explains. Tiffany suggests scheduling your eating window around your ideal workout schedule so you can fuel up before and/or after an intense session.
Personally, it was hard for me to think outside the box when it came to IF. I felt I could only work out in the early morning because if I waited until the evening, I'd have to fast for much longer throughout the day. Author, MD, and sports nutritionist Marie Spano suggests trying to exercise during the feeding window "so you have immediate energy on board to get through your workout." This meant that some of my weekly workouts were a brisk 20-to 30-minute walk in the neighborhood of my job, which isn't as intense of a sweat session I'd like, but remedies the scheduling problem that often comes with IF. Others who love morning workouts may decide to shift their eating window to 8 a.m.-4 p.m., opting to fast from 4 p.m. until the morning. But if that isn't doable, try shifting your morning workouts to the afternoon or evenings.
Think Differently About Workouts
Intermittent fasting requires that you throw a lot of what you're accustomed to about eating and exercise out the window. That means adopting the idea that fasting equals fat loss. For those with a focus on weight loss, exercise may become an added bonus. "Remember that you fast for fat loss and you work out to preserve or build muscle," Brad Pilon, author of Eat Stop Eat, says. "Fasting is doing all the work for fat loss and your workouts and post-workout nutrition is doing everything to help you get stronger muscles."
For those looking to lose weight on IF, that means paying closer attention to your eating regimen more so than your exercise routine. This was, without a doubt, an adjustment for me, as I genuinely enjoy working out. I had to rewire my brain to learn to pull back on workouts, if necessary, or focus more on certain types of workouts over others, depending on what my body would allow that day.
Give It Time to Settle In
Just like everything else, your body needs time to accept and understand IF. Everyone's bodies are different, and there are some individuals who have no problem working out in a fasted state, for instance.
Just like everything else, I wanted results - fast. This caused me to feel extra frustrated and tired with the process, and thus prompted me to give up IF long before it even had a chance to work in my body. Many experts say that a new eating or workout plan typically takes about two weeks to adjust to. This, however, can take even longer, depending on other factors.
"Any type of client I work with, we always 'clear the clutter' within their lifestyle before we start learning about and creating new habits, behaviors, and ultimately a new sustainable lifestyle," Houser says. "Otherwise, it's like pushing a boulder up a hill. When there is clutter in our way, and in this case, a deficiency, other health challenges, your stress level, your busy schedule, or any of other lifestyle factors, you may be taking yourself on a discouraging and unproductive journey."
Meal Planning Is a Must
Timing is everything when it comes to IF, but the quality of the meals is just as crucial. Registered dietitian Emily Field suggests making your final meal of the feeding window one that will sustain you through your fasted state. She recommends a meal full of "protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables."
"Filling up on foods like this at the end of your feeding window sets you up for feeling full and satisfied as you enter into your fasting window," she says. "Alternatively, eating a heavy carbohydrate meal at the end of your feeding window could set you up for hunger and cravings. Imagine waking up to an early morning workout when you're already hungry and craving vs. waking up to that same workout feeling alert and stable."
From personal experience, I can say that Emily's point is right - when carb-loading at the end of the feeding window, I'm unhappily surprised to be hungry very shortly after. Protein and fiber-packed meals, however, usually help hold me over through the night and until the next feeding window begins.
Take Note of Your Motivation
You can't get where you're going unless you know where you came from. Such is the same with health and wellness. Think about (and even write down) why you started IF, what your goals are, and what you can reasonably do to get there. Field suggests that IF may not be for everyone, and that's certainly OK.
"Intermittent fasting might not be right for someone who does not have a ton of control over their day, as this could interfere with their athletic performance and overall energy," she explains. But that doesn't mean these people can't find the process that's right for them or even take some pointers for IF.
"The healthiest eating pattern is the one that works for you for the long-term because it makes sense and you enjoy it," Field says. "It's the one that meets your calorie and macronutrient needs so you can achieve and maintain a healthy weight for you, the one that enables you to do the types of physical activity you love, and the one that powers you through your busy day with consistent energy." This, above all else, is most important.
This Beautiful Lip Balm Duo Will Prevent Your Lips From Looking Beastly
Lip balm isn't the most exciting beauty product - unless, of course, it's an enchanted balm, like the Mrs. Potts and Chip Lip Balm Duo ($12) from Firebox. The adorable set includes two delightfully Disney-themed balms shaped like the beloved teapot and cup from Beauty and the Beast.
Not only do the bite-size balms look adorable, but they also come in two delectable flavors. Mrs. Potts contains pink strawberry, while opening Chip reveals a purple grape version. The duo is small enough to keep in your purse, and the sweet packaging will make you want to take it everywhere with you. Just be prepared to hear a collective "Ooooooh - where did you get that?" each time you use it.
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.
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.
This Online Program Helped Tricia Lose 90 Pounds and Drop 6 Dress Sizes
Just two years ago, Tricia "hated" how she looked in photos and wasn't happy with how her clothes felt on her. She and her boyfriend were struggling to get by, and they constantly fell back to unhealthy eating habits. She knew she wanted to get her health in order, and she happened to stumble upon an online community that changed everything. Now, Tricia is down 90 pounds, feels stronger and happier than ever, and is planning on doing a triathlon next year! Here's more on her amazing story.
POPSUGAR: When did you start your weight-loss journey? What made you decide to?
Tricia Shimimura: In December 2015, I was feeling stuck. I hated how my clothes felt on me. I hated every photo I took. I hated that I always had to pray that stores carried my size. On top of all of that, I felt like my boyfriend and I were just barely able to get by financially. I still vividly remember going out for pizza (and paying $50 each time) twice in one week because we didn't have any better plans for dinner.
During the holidays, I started to look online for a healthy eating program. Somehow, I stumbled upon Fit Girls Guide. With the promise of a healthy eating plan plus an exercise tutorial, I thought that this would be a great way to restart our systems. What I didn't realize was that this program is not a "program" at all. It's a guide to living a healthy lifestyle, both inside and out. It's a mindset that takes out the body negativity and teaches you how to love yourself at every weight and every phase of your life.
PS: What was your starting weight?
TS: I weighed around 223 pounds.
PS: How much weight have you lost so far?
TS: After my first 28 days, I had lost 10 pounds. In the third month I lost eight pounds. Each month I was astounded by how my face, arms, and legs were changing. In total, I fluctuate between 85 and 90 pounds lost.
PS: How did you do it? Did you do a specific workout type or schedule?
TS: I followed the Fit Girls Guide Jumpstart program for approximately five to six months, before shifting over to the Fit Girls Guide Fitkini program for another six to eight months. I have also done the Fit Girls Guide three-month Bootcamp program. I'm now back to Fitkini because I love the workouts.
The exercises are circuit-based, although you can incorporate weights into some of the exercises and "extra credit" workouts. What I've always appreciated is that I can fit in an intensely challenging, sweaty, and heart-pounding workout within 45 minutes at the gym - and I never have to jump on a treadmill or cardio machine, which I generally find very boring.
PS: What are some nonscale victories you've experienced?
TS: There are too many to count! I love all of the photos I take, I walk the three miles to my work every day, I no longer have early onset arthritis in my knees, and I was able to save for my wedding using the money I would have spent on going out to eat. I've also gone down from a size 16 or 18 to a size 2 or 4.
My now-husband and I have also picked up some adventurous new habits, like hiking, biking, 5K races, and next Summer, a triathlon!
PS: How do you stay motivated?
TS: On days when I don't feel particularly motivated to go to the gym, the Fit Girls Community is a great way to keep you accountable and support you no matter what. Fit Girls Guide does not demand perfection, and I try not to demand that of myself either.
PS: What does a typical day of eating look like for you?
TS: Breakfast is most likely overnight "fridge oats" that consist of almond milk, oats, yogurt, fruit, and a little bit of peanut butter and honey.
Lunch almost always involves a handful of kale, roasted vegetables, beans, hummus, some sort of protein like a veggie burger, plus a whole grain, like brown rice, faro, or quinoa. In total, lunch will be approximately 400 calories.
In order to feel full and stay around 400 calories, dinners tend to be high in vegetables, beans, and other proteins - and low in things like bread and pasta. Favorites recently have included roasted zucchinis stuffed with veggies, kale, and feta, with a side of brown rice and beans. Also, our version of shakshouka involves eggs baked in a spiced tomato and red pepper sauce with fresh herbs.
I will have between 150 and 250 calories of snacks before bed, usually in the form of dark chocolate (70 percent or higher), dried dates, or some almonds or cashews. We also really like Halo Top ice cream.
PS: Any advice or tips for people on their own journey?
TS: Don't go into anything with an "all or nothing" mentality. There will be good days and bad days. Forgive yourself, be kind to yourself, celebrate every bit of progress (even if progress means walking a little more than yesterday), drink lots of water, and sleep. We never get enough sleep and it makes everything easier.
PS: Anything else you want to share?
TS: Thanks to Fit Girls Guide, I've learned how to eat well, exercise effectively, and love myself in a healthy, sustainable way. I may have bad days, but my resolve will not change - I've found a lifestyle that works and now the only way to go is forward.
20 Recipes That'll Help You Stick to Your Healthy-Eating Goals
We're proponents of healthy eating all year long - with the occasional indulgence, of course. But we also know that it's hard to kick-start a commitment to sticking with a better eating program and a strong fitness routine. Another thing we know for sure? No one wants to sacrifice flavor. That's why we put together a list of 20 scrumptious versions of your favorite dishes that cut down the calories but none of the taste. Keep reading to find the recipes.
39 Great Gift Ideas For 1-Year-Olds
Whether it comes in the form of crawling, scooting, or taking those first few steps, one thing's for certain - 1-year-olds are active little people! That's why it's important to provide them with toys that will satisfy their desire to explore the world around them and provide plenty of action. Check out our favorite picks, from push-along toys and blocks to shape sorters and more.
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.
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.
Find Your Signature Scent Using Your Zodiac Sign
We rely on our horoscope for everything from love advice to hairstyle ideas. You can also link your zodiac sign to your signature scent. All those personality traits from the astrology calendar can lead you to the the right blend of notes for your mood. We enlisted the help of Anne Nelson Sanford, perfumer and founder of LURKbeauty, to determine which perfume ingredients best fit each sign. Keep reading to get Sanford's in-depth recommendations from Gemini's lavender love to Capricorn's jasmine affinity. Plus, we also give you a few suggestions of what to shop based on your birth month.
Gordon Ramsay's Transformative Way to Scramble Eggs
Yes, there are a million different scrambled eggs techniques out there, but Gordon Ramsay's will be your full-stop method. While at a press event to promote his new game with Glu Mobile, I asked chef Ramsay to go through the proper way to scramble eggs. His unique method has a heartwarming tale:
"After training in London, I wanted to become French, so I went to the birthplace of all cuisine. I remember seeing this amazing dish with scrambled eggs and sea urchin. I tasted the sea urchin through the scrambled eggs . . . and they topped it with caviar. I thought it was wild. I had never put sea urchin in scrambled eggs. The texture was just incredible. It made it so much creamier. What was more accessible to the average person at home making scrambled eggs - I knew that was crème fraiche. I perfected that craft in France making scrambled eggs to order, standing in Guy Savoy's restaurant behind the line as a 22-year-old."
But crème fraiche isn't the only thing that makes these scrambled eggs different from the rest. It's cooked in a pot! The eggs aren't seasoned from the start! Most of the cooking is done off the flame! Are you baffled yet? Me too, which is why I had to try the method out for myself. So where to begin? Start by watching Gordon's YouTube video. He shared a hilarious story about it:
I think there's about 15 million people online who have [watched] that scrambled eggs video. And it transforms the way you eat eggs. Incredible. It's a kind of rich, sumptuous way to eat scrambled eggs even for dinner, even with all the steps. It's just delicious on sourdough bread. My video, with 15 million downloads on YouTube, I burn the f*cking toast. I'm not so far down my backside. I make mistakes. I just start again. It's funny. I'm so into my scrambled eggs, focusing away. Fire alarm is going off and I burn my toast."
Like Gordon, my first attempt didn't go off hitch-free. I'm unfortunately going to need a few more practices to end up with perfectly custardy, voluminous eggs like Gordon, but what I did make was truly exceptional and unlike any scrambled eggs I've ever had before. I can't wait to keep on practicing, and neither will you once you've memorized the steps.
Gorgeous Gift Baskets So Easy to Copy, It's Ridiculous
No one would blame you if you never wanted to create a gift basket on your own. DIY gift baskets are pretty intimidating, since you have to find the right pieces that fit perfectly together. But the truth is, the process is much simpler than you think, and we have the proof.
In a special collaboration, Abby Larson, the editor and founder of Style Me Pretty, worked with HomeGoods to curate gorgeous gift baskets that you can easily re-create. There's one for the entertainer in your life, one for the baker, and one for the cocktail-lover, and they're equally as impressive. Just copy her same picks for an affordable, foolproof gift idea you'll want to give for years to come. There, that wasn't so bad, was it?
Source: Style Me Pretty
Is Coffee Bad For You? Here Are the Facts, Straight From a Doctor
If you're like two-thirds of Americans, you probably started your day with at least one cup of coffee. After water, it's is the most commonly consumed beverage in the United States. But from a health perspective, coffee's reputation has been tenuous for decades, and the habit often draws criticism from wellness circles.
The notion that a coffee-free lifestyle is health-promoting stems at least partially from '70s-era studies that linked coffee intake with higher rates of heart disease and certain cancers. But these associations were later debunked, after other researchers noted that the studies didn't account for unhealthy behaviors (like smoking) that were often associated with coffee drinking at the time.
Despite the release of higher-quality studies that paint a more benign (if not outright positive) picture of the coffee habit, many well-intentioned wellness gurus continue to urge the health-conscious set to give it up. Below, I review the ups and downs of coffee drinking and share my professional take as a doctor.
The Good
Evolving science over the past decade points to several coffee-related health benefits. In large studies, coffee drinkers appear to have a lower risk of type II diabetes, stroke, heart disease, dementia, and certain cancers than non-coffee drinkers.
Two new reports released in July found that coffee drinkers even have lower rates of death from any cause - including cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease - than people who don't drink coffee. Furthermore, those who drank two to three cups per day appeared to have a lower risk of death than those who drank just one.
Coffee is actually the leading source of antioxidants in the typical American diet, likely because we drink so much of it.
Studies like these must be interpreted with caution, however, because they only imply association, not causation. According to Darla Klokeid, MD, a family medicine physician at One Medical Group in Seattle, "Healthy individuals may be more likely to select or have access to coffee and other caffeinated beverages than less healthy individuals." In other words, the study may have selected for people who were healthier overall, which makes the task of determining whether coffee itself is a causative agent very difficult.
Still, many experts say that a causative relationship between coffee and downstream health benefits is scientifically plausible, thanks to coffee's high antioxidant content. According to the American Chemical Society, coffee is actually the leading source of antioxidants in the typical American diet, likely because we drink so much of it.
Though both regular and decaf coffee are antioxidant powerhouses, caffeinated coffee can provide additional perks. "Caffeine is known to have short-term benefits - it can increase concentration, mental energy, and alertness," said Klokeid. This may sound familiar to anyone who can't talk to another human in the morning without a cup or two.
The Bad
Coffee - with and without caffeine - is known to exacerbate gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), so if you get heartburn or stomach pain after drinking a cup, you should probably stay away. Those with trouble sleeping should also be wary; one study demonstrated that consuming caffeine even six hours before bedtime can have disruptive effects on sleep.
As any java drinker can tell you, another downside is caffeine dependence. After skipping a morning cup, habitual drinkers tend to develop headaches, fatigue, and irritability. But only a minority of drinkers say that dependence makes them want to cut the habit. For those who do give it up, symptoms subside within a few days.
Dangers of too much caffeine also exist. Overdoing it on caffeinated coffee could lead to anxiety, tremors, gastrointestinal upset, and palpitations. Generally these effects are seen at levels above 400 mg, or roughly four cups of coffee.
Overall, however, coffee drinking appears remarkably safe. Though many critics have warned that caffeinated coffee can lead to dehydration by causing the kidney to excrete excess water, this diuretic effect is only seen in the short term and is diminished in those who drink coffee regularly. The same is true for blood pressure - caffeine can raise blood pressure acutely among people who infrequently ingest it, but studies among habitual coffee drinkers have found that coffee has minimal (if any) effect on blood pressure.
The Verdict
Like most doctors, I assure my patients that they can enjoy a morning cup of coffee without guilt. Dr. Klokeid agrees. "Current medical data indicates that it can't be discouraged," she said.
But there isn't quite enough evidence to encourage its use, either. More research is needed to determine whether coffee truly leads to improved health outcomes. But for the majority of people, moderate consumption is a low-risk habit that could turn out to be one of the healthier things you can do.
All the Fall Superfoods You Need to Stock Up on Now
When you think of delicious, cozy Autumn flavors, your mind might go to maple brussels sprouts or roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon . . . maybe even apple pie! Did you know that all of these ingredients have superfood qualities? From heart-healthy apples to blood-sugar-regulating cinnamon to fiber-packed root veggies, your favorite flavors are going to bring you some seriously awesome health benefits. Ahead are 15 of our favorite superfoods for Fall, and we think you'll be pretty pleased with this list. Get ready for a solid grocery shopping session!
Mindhunter Doesn't Even Show the Tip of the Iceberg When It Comes to the Co-Ed Killer
Image Source: Netflix
One of the most interesting relationships on Mindhunter, Netflix's new psychological thriller, is the one between FBI special agent Holden Ford and incarcerated serial killer Edmund Kemper III (or "sequence killer," as Ford calls him before the term "serial killer" came to be the common vernacular). Interviewing Kemper is the driving force behind Ford's and, later, his partner Bill Tench's push to have the FBI study known serial killers to try to "figure out how crazy thinks."
While Ford and Tench are fictional characters based on real-life FBI agents, Kemper is 100 percent a real historical figure. The famed murderer, known as "the Co-Ed Killer," was close with his father and took his parents' divorce extremely hard, as it forced him to be raised by his alcoholic, abusive mother. It was a year later that his killing fetish began, when he killed the family cat at age 10. He would later kill another family cat and then graduated to killing his paternal grandparents at age 15.
When he turned himself in, he told authorities that he just wanted to see what it felt like to kill Grandma, then killed his grandfather so that he wouldn't have to see his wife dead. After six years in the mental ward of a state hospital, Kemper was released. He would go on to kill six young women (five of them college students; hence, his nickname "the Co-Ed Killer") and then his mother and his mother's best friend. Kemper also committed necrophilia with the dead bodies before dismembering them and disposing of the remains.
After the murder of his mother and her friend, Kemper confessed to local law enforcement and was arrested, when he then confessed to the other murders. He was sentenced to eight life sentences, since capital punishment was temporarily suspended in California at the time of his trial. He's still being held at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville, CA.
Image Source: Getty / Bettmann
John E. Douglas, the real-life profiler whom Jonathan Groff's Mindhunter character is based on, interviewed Kemper many times, calling him one of the "brightest" inmates he had ever spoken with and providing a rare insight into violent crimes and the people who perpetrate them. Kemper has said the reason he participated in the interviews is because he hoped they would help someone who has the kind of rage he had but who hasn't resorted to murder yet . . . because the rage and the murder are hard to stop once they start.
On Mindhunter, Kemper is portrayed by actor Cameron Britton, who does an outstanding job of conveying how intelligent, high-functioning, and yet also psychotic Kemper was. And if you think his presence is imposing on the show, keep in mind that Britton is "only" 6'5". The real Kemper stands 6'9" and weighed over 250 pounds.
Of playing Kemper, Britton wrote in a Facebook post: "Due to the intensive nature of the project, I learned more about acting this year than any other in my life." He also calls his role in the show a story that is stranger than fiction.
10 Unexpected Places to Buy Magazine-Worthy Nursery Art Online
Lots of work goes into prepping your home for a new family member, but decorating the nursery is one of the most enjoyable ways. There's something cathartic about carving out a special space for your newborn, from picking a color theme to purchasing a crib. Every detail feels important, especially the wall art because it plays a big role in setting the tone of the entire space. It's easy to resort to shopping for nursery art at the same old popular baby stores, but when you shop at the same baby decor stores as everyone else, you risk ending up with the same art as everywhere else. Luckily, there's a world of distinctive wall art for sale online - if you know where to look. We gathered up the best places to find unique, elevated wall art that will take your nursery to the next level. Check them out ahead.
Jaw-Dropping Then-and-Now Photos of the Twin Sisters Who Gave Birth 15 Minutes Apart
Twin sisters Corey Struve Talbott and Katie Struve Morgan knew they were expecting their babies 10 days apart, but when they unexpectedly gave birth on the same day and within just 15 minutes of each other, they couldn't have been more shocked. Before giving birth to Indie Mae and Ryatt Rae, Corey and Katie took stunning maternity photos in blue gowns to commemorate going through pregnancy at the same time. A year later, the sisters slipped on the same dresses and grabbed their 1-year-old girls to re-create their maternity shoot.
"I photographed Corey and Katie's maternity photos last year. I thought it was so sweet that two sisters got to experience such a special time together," Brenden Boggs of So Cute Photo told POPSUGAR. "Even though their due dates were a few weeks apart, they ended up giving birth on the same day only 15 minutes apart! We all joke that they are twin-cousins!"
With Indie and Ryatt celebrating their first birthdays, Brenden thought it would be fun to re-create Corey and Katie's maternity shoot with the girls, and the twins loved the idea. "We were cracking up at how loose the dresses were," Corey told POPSUGAR of the now-iconic blue dresses.
"It was so much fun to see how much life can change in a year," Brenden said. "Now Corey and Katie have two beautiful baby girls full of personality, and they all can't wait to see what adventures the next year of toddlerhood brings!"
Ahead, see the gorgeous photos Brenden took of the moms and their little ones plus a YouTube video of the twins' birth stories, and follow Indie and Ryatt on Instagram for daily doses of cuteness.
Old Navy's New Kids' Subscription Box Just Made It Easy to Buy Cute, Affordable Clothes
Old Navy has been outfitting our little ones since they were still in the womb - its maternity offerings are so cute and affordable! - but as kids start getting older, hauling everyone to the local store isn't easy. Enter: the first-ever Old Navy kids' outfit subscription box for boys and girls age 5-12. The aptly nicknamed "superbox" will be delivered every three months, keeping children stylishly dressed for the changes of season. Subscribers will get a head-to-toe outfit, complete with accessories, tailored to the child's style preferences - they can pick from the sporty, trendy, or classic box, just to name a few.
While the approximately six items included in the box will have a total retail value of $100, the box only costs $70 - and while that price might still seem steep, the one "outfit" can be mixed and matched into more than a week's worth of looks when combined with what's already in their closets. If something doesn't fit or your little one simply doesn't like an item, Old Navy offers free returns and exchanges for subscription box items within 21 days of delivery. And if you love and keep everything, you get $10 off your next order. Kids' clothing shopping just got so much easier!
60 Recipes to Help Shave Calories Off of Lunchtime
Cooking and packing up a quality healthy lunch is a good idea for so many reasons. Whether or not you're trying to lose weight, bringing your own lunch to work keeps you in charge of the ingredients that fuel your body and helps you perform at your best both at work and in the gym. Regardless of your dietary limitations and preferences, (at least!) one of these healthy recipes will fit the bill and make its way into your lunchtime rotation.
12 YouTube Tutorials That Will Convince You to DIY Your Bridal Makeup
Once the initial excitement of planning a wedding wears off, most brides are faced with a tough reality: the wedding they've seen all over Pinterest may be out of their budget. But with some adjustments, any girl can have her dream day without forking over her life savings - with a little thriftiness, that is.
One of the best ways to save money without compromising on the ceremony or afterparty is by doing your makeup yourself (or convincing a trusted friend to do it for you). While choosing - and applying - bridal makeup yourself may sound daunting, it's much easier than you may think. Every bride wants makeup that feels classic, makes her glow, and will stand up against flash photography and a day of festivities, so it's really just finding the products and techniques that will help you achieve these makeup goals. Plus, you know your own face better than anyone!
To cover your bases, we've rounded up our favorite bridal tutorials aimed at those looking to DIY their big-day makeup. With these videos as your secret weapon, any bride can complete a look that she will love both the day of and for years to come.
You Decide: Are Taylor Swift's Edgy Nails a Dig at Kim and Kanye?
While Taylor Swift has become ubiquitous for many beauty styles - bold red lips and winged eyeliner being the main culprits - we can't say we've ever really noticed her manicures. Don't get us wrong, Taylor's nails have always been clean and impeccable, but she usually sports short, rounded manis. But with the drop of her new single, "Look What You Made Me Do," that has all changed.
Just look what she's made us do - the normally nail-art-averse singer has us zooming in on her manicure. In a teaser for her upcoming video that will premiere at the VMAs, Taylor did a complete style backflip and opted to wear metallic gold claw nails.
Since the shot of her mani also showed Taylor wearing bedazzled snake rings, just about everyone was quick to assume the style was a not-so-subtle dig at Kim Kardashian. This dis would be twofold. For one, during their 2016 feud over Kanye West's "Famous" lyrics, Kim likened Taylor to the snake emoji on Twitter.
The second clue is that just about everyone in the Kardashian clan is known for the extreme length of their (sometimes pierced) manis. Since Taylor ditched her signature nail look for the one Kim's become famous for, many are inclined to believe the style is absolutely intentional.
Of course, a lot of other people wear claw nails, too. Taylor could just be rocking the style because it goes with her video's dramatic aesthetic. Regardless of her intentions, we'll always be fans of beauty experimentation. Do you, Taylor! (But maybe don't eat any more diamonds).
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