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.
samedi 18 novembre 2017
13 Men's Fragrances That Women Find Attractive
Scent and memory are two things that are closely tied together. And just like your mother is devoted to her signature fragrance, you probably associate certain aromas with the men in your life. We can still recall the smell of Zest bar soap and fresh-cut grass that used to emanate from our dad on the weekends. So in the name of Father's Day, we've compiled our favorite colognes to suit every male personality - the lumbersexual, the dapper corporate climber, and even the adventurous retiree.
What You Need to Know When Planning to Shop on Thanksgiving Day
There is no denying Black Friday is the most festive day of the year for bargain hunters. From door-busters to early-bird specials, any fan of this fast-paced frenzy would tell you the key to snagging the best deals is to properly plan for the big day ahead. But in recent years, many of the larger retailers have been starting the show early and opening their doors on Thanksgiving Day. Although not everyone agrees with this strategy, if you're gearing up to hunt down the absolute best sales of the season, launching your shopping voyage during this time might be worth the effort.
To assist in your planning, take note of the stores that have confirmed they will be open on Thanksgiving Day.
- Walmart: The only major holiday to close down Walmart is Christmas, so these stores will be open for limited hours on Thanksgiving Day. However, the window of time when these stores will be open varies depending on location. The best way to find out the hours for your local Walmart is to use the official Walmart store locator tool.
- GameStop: Despite remaining closed on Thanksgiving in 2015 and 2016, this year the company has confirmed it will be open. It has not yet finalized Thanksgiving hours, but as time gets closer to the big day, just as with Walmart, you can find specific opening hours via the online store locator tool.
While most stores have yet to announce their Thanksgiving schedules for 2017, below is a list of the hours offered by major retailers last year, which can help better predict your route for this year. And don't worry - we'll be updating any confirmations we receive to the list, so be sure to bookmark this page!
Thanksgiving Day Store Hours 2016 (listed alphabetically):
- Bass Pro Shops: 8 a.m. Thursday
- Belk: 4 p.m. Thursday
- Best Buy: 5 p.m. Thursday
- Big Lots: 7 a.m. Thursday
- BonTon: 5 p.m. Thursday
- Dick's Sporting Goods: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Dollar General: 7 a.m. Thursday
- Gander Mountain: 8 a.m. Thursday
- JCPenney: 3 p.m. Thursday
- Kmart: 7 p.m. Thursday
- Kohl's: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Macy's: 5 p.m. Thursday
- Michaels: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Modell's Sporting Goods: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Old Navy: 4 p.m. Thursday
- Sears: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Stein Mart: 5 p.m. Thursday
- Target: 6 p.m. Thursday
- Toys "R" Us: 5 p.m. Thursday
- Walgreens: 8 a.m. Thursday
- Walmart: 6 p.m. Thursday
Make These 69 DIY Cleaning Products For Pennies
If you're tired of reaching for cleaning products with ingredients you can't even pronounce, then head to your local grocery store for a few basic components, and make your own. These eco-friendly concoctions will leave your house sparkling. From window cleaner to grout whitener, you'll be amazed at how easy these DIYs are to pull off. And after making the initial investment for the all-natural ingredients, these cleaning supplies cost pennies per concoction to make.
10 Aluminum-Free Deodorants That Actually Keep You Stink Free
You can't talk about natural deodorants without a quick lesson in B.O. 101. First you need to know the difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant. An antiperspirant has chemicals like aluminum to stop sweating altogether. The aluminum salts plug the sweat glands, preventing perspiration. On the other hand, a deodorant masks and neutralizes odor. But where does the stink come from in the first place? When the glands in your armpits emit sweat, the liquid interacts with the bacteria in the area to emit unsavory smells.
Natural deodorants use essential oils like tea tree and witch hazel to curb the bacteria. Some also have other less harmful minerals like zinc ricinoleate and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to keep the underarm area dry without stopping sweat altogether. In addition to getting rid of aluminum, most are also paraben free and safe for sensitive skin. If you're thinking about giving up antiperspirant, start with these 10 formulas that actually keep the stink at bay.
Have You Noticed Kate Middleton Always Wears This 1 Color of Nail Polish?
While we ramp up for a holiday season of bright red nail polish and glitter topcoats, Kate Middleton, like all royals before her, will reportedly refrain from such extra manis. In fact, it's actually rumored to be part of Kate's job description to keep her nails nude. According to British tabloid OK!, royal protocol demands it.
But as we've seen before, that doesn't mean Kate can't wear anything on her nails. In fact, she's somewhat of an Essie aficionado. She rocked a mix of the brand's Rose Lounge (pour one out for this sadly discontinued soft pink) and Allure ($9) at her 2011 wedding to Prince William. She's not alone in her love for the drugstore line - Queen Elizabeth has been wearing the same shade of Essie in Ballet Slippers ($9) for 29 years. This pinky nude hue was created when the queen's hairdresser wrote to brand founder Essie Weingarten in 1988, requesting a bespoke shade for her majesty.
Of course, this rule only applies to public functions (aka pretty much whenever Kate Middleton steps outside of Kensington Palace). So perhaps when she's not being watched, Kate paints on metallics and dances around like she's gone rogue à la that classic 1998 Disney film, My Date With the President's Daughter. Probably not, but a girl can dream.
Ahead, find four nude shades you can rock while you princess-wave.
7 Things People With Clean Kitchens Do Every Day
Do you hate to cook? Do you turn your nose when entering your kitchen and hurry out the door once your microwave beeps, signaling your frozen burrito is ready? And if we're really being honest, have you forgotten the last time you changed out your sponge or scrubbed the stove free of pasta-sauce splatters? It sounds like you have a messy kitchen. Marie Kondo, the New York Times bestselling author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up sympathizes. That's why she developed a system, which is called the KonMari Method, that allows anyone, even the seemingly hopelessly messy, can take on successfully.
If you're curious about her unique purging technique, read about my experience of using the KonMari Method in my kitchen. After you've trashed all the dishware, cooking tools, and pantry items that don't "spark joy" - aka make you happy when you see, touch, and use them - it's time to take on these daily habits of people with clean kitchens to keep your own space neat without intense effort.
- Keep Everything Off the Kitchen Counter
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I know, this one seems like a tough one, yet your blender, sugar bowl, coffee maker, and other knickknacky things not only take up space on your counter, but they also actually make it impossible to clean. They gather dust and oily muck on and around them, and you ignore it. The person with a clean kitchen wipes down all appliances, etc. with a warm, damp sponge before storing the items in shelves or cabinets. Yes, even those things they use every day.
- Wipe the Stove, Sink, and Counter With Each Use
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Marie Kondo says, "Tidying your kitchen means wiping away any water or oil." If there's nothing on your stove, sink, or counter, it suddenly becomes really easy to run a sponge over these areas every day to clean up any splashes or spills. Ta-da! No crumbs or mysterious stains to be seen.
- Keep Dish Soap and Sponges Under the Sink
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Having tried this out myself, I can attest to its effectiveness. After washing dishes, simply squeeze out the sponge and keep it in a wire sponge holder under the sink along with your soap and rubber gloves. It's a surprising trick to keep your kitchen looking neat and inviting.
- Store the Trash Can Under the Sink
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There's something off-putting about having a trash can in the middle of the kitchen, even one with a sleek stainless steel design. Storing your trash can under the sink keeps it out of sight and out of mind. I also love taking the trash out more frequently so my kitchen never smells.
- Wash and Dry Dishes Immediately
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If you have a drying rack in your kitchen, get rid of it! It makes it all too easy to pile on the dishes without ever putting them away, plus the wet drippings pool and grow all sorts of gnarly things. Instead, do as the tidy person does and wash and dry the dishes immediately after a meal.
- Keep About 30 Percent of Your Fridge Empty
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Ever wonder where you are going to put your leftovers or newly bought groceries? If you always have a few clear spots in your fridge, it makes it easy to find a designated spot for new things.
- Give Each Thing a Definite Home (Away From the Stove)
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Though it's tempting to want to stash kitchen tools, spices, oils, etc. near the kitchen stove for easy access, this is a recipe for disaster. As things cook, the oil often splatters onto these items. In addition, the heat can drastically reduce the storage life of spices and oils, rendering them stale and rancid. Instead, store everything away from the stove. Before cooking, pull out all the equipment and food stuff you may need, and put each thing away, item by item, after its use. This makes cleanup way easier.
The Countdown Is On! 24 Gorgeous Advent Calendars to Make or Buy
Did you grow up counting down the days until Christmas with an Advent calendar? The holiday tradition has taken on an entirely new life of its own, thanks to the creativity of some very design-savvy moms and crafters. Whether you prefer to DIY or click and buy, we've rounded up 24 absolutely beautiful Advent calendars to add a beautiful spin on the December countdown for your little ones!
15 '90s Toys You Can Buy For Your Kids (or Yourself) Today
There's nothing more fun than looking back with nostalgia at your childhood toys - and the '90s were especially full of amazing treasures. Just in time for holiday shopping (wink, wink), we've compiled a list of classic 1990s toys that are still available to purchase. Enjoy!
15+ Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes That Are Anything but Basic
Because #vegansdoitbetter. With dishes like spicy sweet potato salad, protein-packed pumpkin pie bars, creamy nutmeg broccoli soup, and wild rice, who needs turkey and carb-heavy mashed potatoes loaded with butter and cream? Not us! Get your clean eating on this Thanksgiving by whipping up a few of these plant-based soups, sides, and mains, then stand by for the jaw-dropping to commence when you tell your guests there's no meat or dairy in anything they're eating. Now that's how you take Thanksgiving to the next level.
Can Strength Training Reduce Belly Fat? A Scientist Weighs In
While we know that cardio is an excellent way to burn fat, we wanted to know how working with weights can contribute to a whittled middle and washboard abs. So how can we blast belly fat with strength training?
Nicole Aurigemma, physiologist at the Penn State Muscle Biology Lab, told us not only how to burn more calories during a workout (in part by doing some weight training first), but she also gave POPSUGAR insight into how we can flatten our stomachs with some deadlifting, leg presses (crazy, right?), and general resistance training.
Here are four major benefits that come with working with weights and training with some resistance!
- More resistance training, more fat burning. "It has been shown that energy expenditure, as well as fat oxidation, increases after multiple sets of resistance exercise, particularly when larger muscle masses are exercised," said Nicole (larger muscle groups are located in the legs - think glutes, quads, etc!). "Think leg press versus chest press," she said. Who knew that a flat belly starts with the legs?
- Your body is burning more calories. "Post-exercise, your body is using up more of its fuel stores, therefore burning more calories," she explained. So even after you're done with a sweat-sesh in the weight room, your body is burning, burning, burning up the calories!
- Your body uses fat while you're resting, too. "Since resistance exercise increases post-exercise fat oxidation," (fat oxidation = your body breaking down fat into energy) "your body is using more fat. This is very favorable for weight loss." Because, when you say you want to lose weight, you really want to be losing fat and gaining metabolism-boosting muscles.
- You'll see results quickly. Nicole noted that the fat oxidation and fat loss happen quickly, "even after just one gym session." She told POPSUGAR that "increased energy expenditure [burning calories] and fat oxidation [burning fat] last at least 24 hours after [even one session of] exercise, so imagine how much fat you could be using and calories you'll be burning if you have regimented resistance training!"
So let's get this straight, more fat burning, more calorie burning, burning even when you're resting . . . and fast results? Let's grab those weights!
Before you get burnin', a couple things to keep in mind: "You could actually gain a little muscle mass before you start to lose weight," said Nicole, "but this doesn't mean you aren't losing fat mass." She also said it's important to note that "You could lift all you want, but if you eat crap, you won't see results." So while a flat belly is made in the weight room, it's also made in the kitchen. Need some inspiration? Try our flat-belly salad and flat-belly smoothie.
If Xanax and Advil Had an Organic, All-Natural Baby, It Would Be These CBD Turmeric Capsules
If you're trying to ditch the prescriptions and over-the-counter pills in lieu of something all natural, we have a product you're going to want to check out ASAP. You already know that turmeric has been used for centuries as a natural anti-inflammatory that can outshine familiar drugs like ibuprofen. So what happens when you combine the powers of this spicy, muscle-healing root with fellow powerful anti-inflammatory CBD? A whole lot of awesome, that's what.
Sagely Naturals did just that. Its Relief & Recovery Capsules ($30-$50) combine 10 milligrams of CBD with organic turmeric to ease pain, tension, soreness - and anxiety! If you're unfamiliar with CBD or unsure of what the right dose is for your body, our best suggestion is to start small and work your way up to see what makes a difference. CBD is the nonpsychoactive compound found in the hemp (cannabis) plant, so it won't get you high, but it'll give you a sense of calm and relaxation that - in the right dose - will feel like the effects of Xanax or Ativan.
In the past couple weeks, we've tried different doses of the 10 milligram capsules - one a day, one in the morning, and one at night, two at a time - and found that the correct dose will vary based on your body (as with all kinds of medication). My personal go-to has been two capsules to get similar effects to three to four ibuprofen pills (and about 0.5 mg of Ativan).
More expensive than Advil but (somewhat) less expensive than antianxiety prescriptions, these end up costing about $2 per capsule. But the ultimate benefits here are that it's all natural, it's completely extracted from plants (thanks, Mother Nature), it kills two birds with one homeopathic stone, and it's not addictive! And while ibuprofen isn't the worst thing to put in your body, when you consider the side effects, it might have you reaching to put more plants in your body vs. chemicals.
Feeling curious? Want to get some muscle and anxiety relief all in one? These spicy little pills are easy to order online and will ship right to your door.
This Is Exactly What You Need to Eat For Breakfast to Lose Weight
Did you know you can use the first meal of the day as a tool to lose weight? Want to know how? We've enlisted the expertise of two nutritionists - Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition - to share the perfect equation for how to make a scrumptious and satisfying breakfast that will help you lose weight. Follow their advice below to start seeing results.
Calories
Aim for a range between 300 and 400 calories. If you're trying to lose weight, stick with the 300 to 350 range, and if you're trying to maintain weight, especially if you're working out, shoot closer to 350 to 400 calories.
Carbs
About 45 to 55 percent of your breakfast calories should be devoted to carbs, which is about 40 to 55 grams of carbs. Skip sugary and overly processed foods or those made with enriched white flour, and choose whole grains, fruits, and veggies.
Protein
About 15 to 20 percent of your breakfast calorie amount should be protein, which works out to about 13 to 20 grams. Getting enough protein at breakfast is important for keeping you satisfied throughout the morning. And studies have shown that getting at least 20 grams of protein at breakfast may help you lose weight as well. Eggs, dairy products, soy milk, protein powder in smoothies, nuts and seeds, and whole grains are great sources of protein.
Fats
Shoot for about 10 to 15 grams, which is about 30 to 35 percent of your total breakfast calories. Instead of saturated fats like bacon and cheese, go for monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) like olive oil, nuts and seeds and the butters made from them, and avocado.
Fiber
Aim for about 25 percent of your recommended daily total of 25 grams per day. That works out to about six grams, but it's OK to go above that, as long as it doesn't bother your digestive system. Berries, pears, apples, greens and other veggies, nuts, seeds, and whole grains can help you reach that goal.
Sugars
If you follow the equation for carbs above, then you won't have to worry about going overboard on sugars, especially if you're eating a combination of foods like fruits, whole grains, and dairy products. But for a ballpark number to keep in mind, stick to 36 grams or fewer. And when it comes to added sugar, try not to exceed six grams - that's about 1.5 teaspoons' worth of any sweetener (white sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, or agave).
Timing
Ideally you should eat breakfast within 30 to 60 minutes of waking up. If you're not keen on eating anything big first thing, split this meal up into two parts, having something light close to waking up and the other half about an hour and a half later. This also works well if you're a morning exerciser and prefer not to have a full stomach while you work out. If you're exercising, you can aim to have the more carbohydrate-based portion of your breakfast (fruit, toast, etc.) prior to working out and the more protein-centric portion afterward.
A Few Examples of Perfect Breakfasts
- Steel Cut Oats With Fruit and Nuts: Steel cut oats not only have more fiber than an equal amount of rolled oats, but they also have more protein since you're eating more of the original grain. Cook one-half cup steel cut oats in a mixture of one-half cup water and one-half cup unsweetened soy milk. Top with one-half cup blueberries, one tablespoon chopped walnuts, and one teaspoon drizzle of maple syrup.
Calories: 328
Total fat: 9.7 grams
Saturated fat: 1 gram
Carbs: 51.1 grams
Fiber: 7.2 grams
Sugars: 16.6 grams
Protein: 11.8 grams - Mexi-Egg Wrap: Scramble one egg and one egg white with two tablespoons black beans, one-quarter cup chopped tomato, and two tablespoons onion, until eggs are set. Stir in one cup spinach. Fill a nine-inch whole-wheat tortilla with the egg mixture and top with one-quarter of an avocado, cubed, and one tablespoon salsa. Add salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder to taste.
Calories: 345
Total fat: 15.7 grams
Saturated fat: 3.5 grams
Carbs: 36.8 grams
Fiber 9.7 grams
Sugars: 3.2 grams
Protein: 17.4 grams - Smoothie and a Hard-Boiled Egg: Pair a carrot cake smoothie made with two medium carrots, half a frozen banana, two cups spinach, one cup unsweetened soy milk (you can use almond), half a scoop plant-based protein powder, one-eighth cup golden raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This is easy to split - have half of the smoothie before your workout, then have the rest plus the egg after the workout.
Calories: 368
Total fat: 12.6 grams
Saturated fat: 5.1 grams
Carbs: 49.5 grams
Fiber: 9.4 grams
Sugars: 25.5 grams
Protein: 25.4 grams
Breakfast Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping out: When you sleep, your body slows down while you're not eating. So when you wake up, if you don't break the fast (yup, that's where the name comes from), your body will burn calories slowly. To jump-start your metabolism and get your body burning calories, you need to eat. Not fueling up also deprives your brain of glucose, which is why you feel foggy-headed and cranky. Think of breakfast as an opportunity to get your fill of valuable nutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamin C.
- Skimping: You know skipping breakfast entirely is a no-no, but not eating enough will also backfire. It'll leave you feeling hungry soon after eating, which will cause you to need more food and can translate to more calories consumed over the course of the entire day. Stick to the formula above, and you'll not only feel satisfied longer, but you'll also have more energy for the workouts that can make you drop pounds even faster.
- Imbalanced meal: Leaving out a key component of the breakfast formula such as avoiding all carbs or going too heavy, such as having an all-protein meal, means you're not going to get enough satisfaction or nutrition from this first meal. Following the formula above will allow you to eat a balanced meal while also helping you see weight-loss results.
Looking to lose weight during other times of the day? Here's what to eat for lunch, what to eat at snack time, and what to eat at dinner to lose weight.
Do These 6 Things on Sunday to Lose Weight All Week Long
You know you should be eating right and exercising all week to reach your weight-loss goals, but when you're so rushed between work and family responsibilities, it's tough to have time to make it happen. A little planning goes a long way, so here are some things you can do on Sunday to ensure you stay on a healthy path all week long.
Plan Your Workouts
Don't just think to yourself that you'll squeeze in a run here and a trip to the gym there - plan it out. Sit down with your weekly calendar and jot down every workout just as you would doctor's appointments and meetings. Use this time to call your fitness buddy or trainer to make dates, check out studio schedules to find classes you want to take, and check the week's weather to figure out which days will be best for outdoor workouts.
Hit the Hamper
Nothing puts a damper on a workout more than not being able to find a clean sports bra, so do a couple loads before Monday, making sure you have everything you need, from your running tights to yoga tops to the towel you use to wipe sweat from your brow. Lay out your outfits for each day's workout so you're not running around the house Tuesday morning trying to find your missing sock.
Gather Your Gear
Collect whatever you need to work out - a yoga mat, sneakers, or earbuds - and make sure everything is set so you can easily grab the items throughout the week. Pack your gym bag, and put it by the door or in your car so you won't forget it when you leave for the day. If you exercise at home, put your favorite fitness video in the DVD player and lay out your dumbbells and resistance band. Sunday is also a great time to make a couple new playlists to inspire your kick-ass workouts (if you don't have time, subscribe to our workout playlists on Spotify).
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Jenny Sugar
Plan Your Meals and Snacks
Sit down and write out a weekly eating plan including all meals and snacks for the week. If you need a little inspiration, check out these healthy recipes. After making out a grocery list to include everything you'll need to whip them up, hit the health food store and stock up for the week. Since produce is best enjoyed within a few days of purchasing, note what fruits and veggies you'll want to pick up halfway through the week.
Make things even easier by prepping in advance: wash, cut, and store veggies to be used in dinner recipes, cut up fruit for smoothies or snacks, and cook up some whole grains and store them in the fridge. Cook some of these make-ahead breakfasts in advance, like a week of overnight oats, or turn on the crockpot to make something you can eat a few nights that week, like these under-400-calorie meals.
Pack It Up
If you'll be away from home during the day, cut down on the temptation to go out to lunch or grab a cookie by packing lunches and snacks from home. Making five salads for the week is easy and healthy, or you can whip up a big pot of soup and freeze small portions in glass containers to grab for lunch. Also set aside 10 snacks for the week (two per day), such as Greek yogurt, cheese sticks, and containers of carrots and hummus, or measure out 100-calorie portions of trail mix, whole-grain crackers, or cereal. It'll probably take about an hour to get it all ready, but it'll end up saving you time during the rest of the week.
Hit the Hay
Once everything is all set, take a nice hot bath, slip on your PJs, and hop into bed early. Unwind with an evening yoga sequence or a calming book, and you're more likely to have a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed for the week ahead.
The Punisher: Who Is Micro, Frank Castle's Right-Hand Man?
At the end of Daredevil season two, Frank Castle burns down his family's house to try to erase his old life and walks off to fully assume the role of The Punisher - but not before smashing a framed photo of his US Marine Corps platoon and retrieving a disc hidden there. Written on the CD is one word: Micro (which, at the time, sent fans running wild with speculation about The Punisher spinoff).
After the episodes dropped, the Daredevil social media accounts posted several cryptic messages with photos of the disc. On Facebook, the message read, "Tomorrow's answers are hidden in the past." On Instagram, the caption teased, "There's a storm comin'." And on Twitter, it said, "Seek and you shall find."
Seek and you shall find. #Daredevil http://pic.twitter.com/HW0nuXaAUQ
- Daredevil (@Daredevil) March 13, 2017
Fans of the comics know that David Lieberman, aka Microchip in the comics, is an elite hacker and former member of the National Security Agency who faked his own death to expose government secrets. He becomes an ally of Castle's, supplying him with weapons and gadgets, but they ultimately become enemies when Micro thinks that Castle has gone over the edge. Things are a little different on The Punisher. Read on to find out how, but be warned of light spoilers ahead.
Like in the comics, Micro's "death" is also a frame job, but he doesn't do it by himself. He is forced into it under threats to his family, a wife and two kids (just like Castle had). The people who threaten Micro are the same people who are responsible for Castle's family being murdered. On the show, Micro actually contacts Castle, telling him that he thinks he knows who really killed Castle's family, which is how they get embroiled in this conspiracy that is far more vast than they ever thought - and it all leads back to a private paramilitary firm called ATLAS, run by Castle's best friend from the service, Billy Russo.
After Micro convinces Castle that there's something going on with the government, the military, and his family's death, they begin working together to track down the mysterious Agent Orange, the man at the top pulling all the strings. As they carry out their mission, Micro acts as Castle's eyes and ears (and sometimes an EMT), as they start to forge an uneasy friendship.
There's also an added side plot with Lieberman's family, something wholly original for the series. Castle bonds with Micro's wife, Sarah, in his quest to get leverage over Micro - as in, fall in line or see how easily I can get to your loved ones. Castle and Sarah are drawn to each other, mostly out of loneliness and sadness, but thankfully it doesn't really turn into a love triangle situation (which would have felt really icky). There's a brief blip in this regard, but it's handled in a really great way.
Micro and Castle stick with their work, even as it grows ever more dangerous and Micro's family is put in jeopardy. There are some iffy moments - at certain points, you have to wonder if either man is going to survive the season. But in the end, they become the latest in a long line of Marvel buddy duos, which should be really entertaining to watch in the inevitable second season of this latest Netflix Marvel series.
15 Beautifully Bizarre Gifts For the Twin Peaks Fan
Did you fall in love all over again with Agent Dale Cooper, Albert Rosenfield, and the rest of the Twin Peaks crew when the show returned in 2017? Or perhaps you discovered it for the first time and are on your third rewatch, trying to figure out just what the heck is going on all the time? Either way, if you're a fan of David Lynch's weird little show, or if someone you love is, POPSUGAR has a plethora of gifts to consider this holiday season.
21 Ultrachic Gift Ideas For the Beauty Minimalist
Minimalism. Even just saying the word somehow momentarily declutters my mind. It's as if the simple thought alone magically sends my brain on a rapid organizational heist clearing every countertop and surface in my apartment and neatly tucking an endless buildup of "stuff" into perfectly organized drawers and cabinets. Oh, what a dream to dream!
For anyone fighting the endless battle to achieve complete minimalist living, these stunningly chic gift ideas will make even a table full of products look picture-worthy. And for the true minimalists out there, these gorgeous gifts will serve as your holiday wish list. Happy shopping!
Maybelline Is Launching a Millennial Pink, Coconut-Scented Mascara - Game Over!
During Spring 2018 New York Fashion Week, makeup artists were using a lab sample for a coconut-infused mascara by Maybelline. And I've been hunting it down ever since. Let me repeat that: a Maybelline coconut mascara. How cool!
This magic wand - dubbed Total Temptation - combines a bevy of buzzy aspects, including the aforementioned coconut ingredient, matte millennial pink-colored packaging (similar to KKW Beauty and Fenty Beauty by Rihanna), and a drugstore price point ($9). The cap also has an easy-to-grip flat part.
OK, now that you already know you want it need it, let's get into the nitty-gritty deets. The mascara formula is light and fluffy, like a soft mousse. That is because it's whipped with coco butter. When I applied it, Total Temptation instantly made my lashes feel conditioned, similar to lash primer.
It gives lashes a voluminous, dense look; and for me, it also added length in just a few swipes. (See proof in the photo below.) This is not a mascara you'll need to stroke your lashes with for a full minute until you see results. Rather, it adds instant lift and density. Maybelline pros suggest wiggling the wand from base to tip, but I prefer a clean stroke, and then I feather out the ends.
The scent is subtle. This is not a sugary vacation cocktail in a mascara, but rather a hint of soothing coconut butter that you'll experience if you hold the tube up to your nose. I have pretty sensitive skin and eyes, and the fragrance did not irritate me.
You can buy Maybelline Total Temptation Mascara in Brownish Black, Very Black, and Blackest Black at Amazon now and at your local drugstore in January 2018.
Yes, You CAN Wear Makeup: 12 Expert-Approved Picks For Acne-Prone Skin
When it comes to choosing makeup, it's not always one-formula-fits-all, especially when you're prone to blemishes. Whether you have chronic acne, break out at certain times of the month, or suffer from pesky lurkers, we asked makeup and skincare experts to share some of their favorite cosmetics for preventing and covering up (most at the same time) pimples once and for all.
The 45-Minute Running Workout You Need to Finally Ditch Your Belly Fat
You've overstayed your welcome, belly fat. If you've been running consistently but still, you look down and can pinch an inch (or several) from your middle, it's time to kick that gut to the curb. Crunches aren't the answer, so change things up by adding high-intensity intervals to your routine. We recommend doing this 45-minute running workout outside; not only will it help diminish your waistline, doing speed intervals will also help increase speed and endurance.
After completing a five-minute walking warmup, repeat the below minute-long workout 35 times, and end with a five-minute walking cooldown.
| Time | Pace | Calories Burned |
|---|---|---|
| 30 seconds | Walk briskly (about 4.6 mph) | 3 |
| 20 seconds | Run moderately (about 6.7 mph) | 4 |
| 10 seconds | Sprint as fast as you can (about 8.6 mph) | 2.7 |
Calories burned per minute: 9.7
Calories burned for warmup and cooldown: 50
Total calories burned: 389.5
*All calculations are based on a 150-pound woman.
35 Perfect Gifts For the Men in Your Life
Chances are there are a few special men in your life who deserve a little something extra this holiday season, yet shopping for them can often be a challenge. Even the ones you know the best can still surprise you with their particular likes and dislikes.
Whether they love technology, sports, camping, or pop culture, you'll find something on this list they'll be extra thankful for.
Is Gold-Leaf Hair Worth It? We Put the Trend to the Test
Would you put gold leaf in your hair? After seeing this hair trend all over Instagram, we felt compelled to give the look a go for ourselves. And while it's a fa-la-la-worthy way to show off your holiday cheer, we have to admit it's not for the impatient.
The trick to keeping the gold leaf in place is to use gel. Paint the gel where you'd like to apply the gold leaf, then use tweezers to adhere the gold leaf itself. And try different metallic shades, depending on your hair color; bronze, copper, and silver look gorgeous as well.
Truth be told, it can err on the side of aluminum foil, so be sure you're not using pieces with jagged edges. The good news is that if this style isn't for you, all you have to do is brush it out and grab a metallic hair accessory.
On Kirbie: Reformation Delancey dress. Lips: ColourPop Lippie Stix in Jonesing.
An Instructor Gets Real on Why You Aren't Seeing Results From Indoor Cycling
Indoor cycling is one of the best forms of exercise, and I am not just saying that because I'm an instructor. I have been a runner, a swimmer, and an HIIT fan. Cycling provides what I like best about all of those activities. It has the intensity of a boot camp, the cardio and toning elements of swimming, and the challenges of running. And like swimming, it is easy on your joints so it can be a lifelong sport. Most of us don't walk into an indoor cycling class with expert knowledge, so today's coaching session is going to help you get the most out of your ride every time.
It's All About the Prep
You should never walk in off the street and jump on a bike and start pedaling. It starts with wearing the right gear, like moisture-wicking clothing. Cycling shoes, while not a requirement, are recommended since sneakers are not designed to take the constant pressure of cycling in and out of the saddle. You also need to adjust your bike properly, have water and towels handy, and arrive early enough to get set up. Also get some pedaling action in before class. If your legs aren't lubricated and warm by the time the first drill begins, you will be working from a deficit.
Listen to the Instructor
Instructors design a class to maximize several factors: muscle conditioning, heart rate training, muscle endurance, power, and speed. Whether your bike has a lever or a knob, you should be adjusting it pretty much the entire class, listening to your instructor's cues. The ride should simulate a real outdoor experience, which even if you live in the flatlands of Texas like me, you'll find a hill or two around. So when your instructor tells you to add or subtract resistance, listen and obey. They have a specific training goal in mind for you. Isn't that why you're there, instead of sitting on a bike in the gym, training yourself? Let us guide you! Of course, if it becomes too hard or you need a break, always feel free to slow down until you are ready to go again. Cycling, like yoga, is a practice, and you need to listen to your body above all things.
Know How to Pace Yourself
In a closely related topic, you achieve more in class if you can figure out if you are working TOO HARD. That's right, you may be overdoing it, which can impact your efficiency and fitness development. This goes back to following the instructor's lead. If you come to the class, crank up your resistance from the get-go, and do every drill with the heaviest load possible, you are going to burn out - not just your legs, but your cardio and energy systems. You need to be able to operate in both the aerobic (oxygenated) and anaerobic (without oxygen) state. You burn the most fat in the aerobic zone. If you are killing it the entire class, guess what you stop burning? That's right: fat. Your body starts pulling energy sources from the quickest available places, and your fat stores are not that. If you operate in that completely out of breath, muscles burning, close to vomiting zone the entire class, you are overtaxing your systems. You will lose endurance and fatigue much faster the rest of the ride. And you won't see the results you are looking for. So definitely listen when your instructor guides you to turn down the resistance, and take breaks if you ever feel overworked.
Keep It Simple
The last way to help you get the bang for your buck in class is to keep it simple. This may not be the most popular advice, but trust me, there's a reason all you should do on a bike is cycle. We have all seen the videos of the choreographed dancing or studios where they allow you to do weight training while on the bike. I'm going to urge you to leave that stuff where it belongs: in another class, on another day. Cycling works two major systems: cardiorespiratory and the lower muscles. Indoor cycling shouldn't be where you go to work on your upper body. When we twist or bounce or lift weights on the bike, we run the risk of tweaking our alignment and negatively impacting our spines, especially if we are lifting weights over our heads. It is impossible to protect the integrity of our ride and perform weight drills properly at the same time.
You are also losing a major benefit of weight training if you do it sitting on a bike: you are not undertaking load-bearing work. Load-bearing exercises require your body to work against gravity, and indoor cycling does not allow for that. If you want both, find a class that does half cycling, half resistance training - I promise they exist! Just please leave the dancing to Zumba and the weights in gym, and you will get more from your cycling.
Decorate Your Coffee Table With These Gorgeous Beauty Books
If you're looking for the perfect way to inspire a book-lover in your life, these beauty volumes should be on your shopping list. They're good for so much more than keeping glass stains off the coffee table. Each page is packed with hair, makeup, and nail tips from celebrities and industry insiders. Whether you like a good self-help book, prefer a historical drama, or salivate over amazing photography, there is an option in this roundup. Keep reading to kick-start your friend's romance with all things beauty.
50 Beauty Gifts (Under $50) to Grab Before They're Gone
Tis the time to start holiday shopping - yes, already. There's no such thing as starting too early, right? At the very least, steal some inspo and get a list going. Every year the ante is upped on the gifting front, and this season is certainly no exception. No matter where you fall on the spectrum (novice or pro), a beauty gift is a winning bet. If your bestie's idea of a productive weekend is spiraling deep into Instagram makeup feeds, or if you know someone who really needs some old-fashioned R&R, there's a gift to suit. And with this mix of options, that are as bomb as they are budget-friendly, you may even have a little left over to pick something out for yourself. Holiday happiness starts right here.
6 Ways to Kick Your Run Up a Notch
Somewhere around the first of your three-miler, it hits. You're bored. Or maybe you're hungry. Actually, you have a cramp. Whatever it is, the ugh thoughts start poking in. You begin to wonder if it's possible to continue on or if your time is better spent turning right back around for a rain check with Stranger Things. Maybe it's because you're sore from yesterday's workout or perhaps this is your fourth day in a row of running. Maybe you're just not challenged enough.
Not to fret: stave off boredom for good with these expert tips to kick your next run up a notch.
1. Toss in some strength training.
Some runners like to be just runners. Morning miles, every damn day. The problem with that? As runners, it's common to fall into some sort of quad-dominant scenario where the powerhouse muscles - including the back, glutes, hamstrings, and calves - are placed on the back burner. By incorporating strength work, you can strengthen these important mover muscles and build a more balanced body. This will not only help you become a stronger runner, but will also help prevent injury. Try incorporating strength training in at least once per week to start, suggests Jess Movold, coach at New York City indoor treadmill studio Mile High Run Club. She suggests this circuit, for starters:
Goblet Squats: 4 sets, 12 reps
Stand with your feet wider than shoulder width with toes pointed slightly out. Hold your dumbbell at chest level with both hands. Keeping your back flat, push your hips back, bend your knees, and lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the floor and your elbows touch your knees. With your weight focused in your heels, push yourself up to the starting position.
Bent-Over Row: 4 sets, 12 reps
With a pair of dumbbells and your feet hip-width distance apart, bend at the waist. Keep your back parallel to the floor with a neutral spine, not rounded. With a slight bend in your knees, hold your arms and the dumbbells extended out in front of you. Engage your abs and squeeze your shoulder blades together as you bring the weights to your torso. Be sure to keep your elbows in and pointed upward. Slowly lower the weights back to the starting position to complete one rep.
Push-Ups: 4 sets, 12 reps
Come into plank position with your arms and legs straight, shoulders above the wrists. Take a breath in, and as you exhale, bend your elbows out to the sides and lower your chest toward the ground. Stop as soon as your shoulders are in line with your elbows. Inhale to straighten the arms. This counts as one rep.
2. Stop running forward.
You can be one of two types of treadmill runners. The first type sets a speed and incline right off the bat, zones out, and likely flips the in-unit TV to HGTV or some other mindless show for 45 minutes. The other type uses the treadmill to their full advantage, playing with everything from backward hustle-ups to side shuffles.
"On the treadmill, I love to add side steps, backwards runs, and hustle-ups into my routines," says Lindsey Clayton, trainer at Barry's Bootcamp and cofounder of Brave Body Project. "We move our bodies in 360 degrees of motion, not just forward and back. Adding in some lateral movement will challenge your balance and agility." Clayton suggests adding in side steps as an active recovery to treadmill workouts instead of walking. If you're brave enough to hustle backward, shift the incline to between six and eight percent and then backpedal or do high knees for 30-second to one-minute intervals.
3. Register for a race.
When you find that all of your motivation is totally zonked, whether its with running or a to-do list item at the office, you can renew your sense of purpose by setting some goals. "Finding a race and hitting the 'register' button is a huge motivator," says Movold. "It gives you something to work toward. Get that race on your calendar and set your sights on it!"
4. Find some fun in a fartlek.
OK, the word fartlek is funny. We get it. For the unaware, "fartlek" is the Swedish term for speed play, which means changing your speed for varying distances while out on a run.
"There aren't really any rules to designing a fartlek," says Clayton. "If you're on that track, you could do one slow loop and then sprint for quarter loop, then repeat that 10 times. If you're out on the street, it could be jog until someone says, 'Sprint to that stop sign,' and you go all out. It's a fun way to mix up your training and it's surprisingly hard!" (For more ideas, check out how to do a fartlek run.)
5. Pick a destination that sends you running through new places.
How many times have you suggested to a friend that you go check out a new brunch spot or peep an upcoming museum exhibit? Make your adventure next-level by running to your destination. I recently did this with my boyfriend, heading to an outdoor graffiti exhibit of sorts in Brooklyn. Our route had us weaving through parts of New York City (specifically Queens and Brooklyn) neither of us had explored before, and loads of cool art and crisp brunch ciders were waiting for us at the end of our five-miler.
6. Hit that interval, hard.
You'll be amazed at how fast time goes by when you're constantly varying your speed and overall intensity. Plus, just one minute of sprint intervals can give you a similar cardiorespiratory gains as 50 minutes of traditional endurance training, despite a dramatically lower exercise volume and time commitment, according to one McMaster University study.
Clayton suggests setting your treadmill for 10 minutes and crushing sprint repeats. "Jog for 30 seconds, sprint for 30 seconds, recover for 30 seconds, and progress your sprint by adding speed each time," she says. "It's hard AF, but it will noticeably improve your speed work in a short amount of time."
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!
The Cutest Pictures of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía of Spain
It seems like just yesterday when King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain announced the birth of their first daughter, so it comes as a total shock that it was 12 years ago that Princess Leonor, the heir to the throne, was born in Madrid. From day one, the little royal graced us with the sweetest pictures (and the most adorable outfits) at family outings and official events.
Then, in 2007, the cuteness doubled with the birth of her sister, Infanta Sofía, and thus began a time of matching outfits, coordinating hairstyles, and mischievous sisterly smiles. Keep scrolling to see the best pictures of the two royals through the years.
The Easiest Way to Clean the Lint Vent in Your Dryer (and You Should Do It Today!)
House fires caused by dryer lint are a real thing. I don't want to add to your list of worries, so let me share a secret with you: cleaning this part of your front-loading dryer is easy. Plus, I have a great hack for you involving an empty paper towel roll. You always knew there was a use for those things! Here's the simple three-step process. Bonus: cleaning your dryer will make it run more efficiently and save you a bit of dough by saving energy.
1. Clean the Lint Trap
You should clear the lint trap, the little screen at the front of the dryer, with every load. Simply pull the lint off the screen and put it in the trash. Dryer sheets can clog the screen, making your dryer less efficient, so you should give the screen a scrub periodically - twice a year will do. Here's how: pull the entire screen out, take it to the sink, gently scrub it with dish soap and a bottle brush (be careful not to tear or puncture the screen), rinse, and dry. While it's drying, tackle cleaning the vent.
2. Clean the Vent
The vent, essentially a hose between the lint trap and the outside of your house, can become clogged with lint, too. You want to vacuum this vent, but chances are high your vacuum nozzle designed for crevices is too thick to fit down into the vent. But I found a simple solution for this issue on the blog Intentional Mom. To extend the vacuum hose, take the interior tube of a paper towel roll, and tape it onto the nozzle. You need to make it airtight so the vacuum has adequate suction. Squish the end of the tube to make it narrow, shove it down the vent, and vacuum all that excess lint.
3. Clean the Vent From the Outside
You get bonus points for this part. Find where the dryer vent hose exits your house, open the vent door, and vacuum out this end, too. I found a surprising amount of lint hanging out in the end of my vent.
If You Like a Little Extra Coverage Around Your Stomach, You're Going to Love These Leggings
Let me first start off by saying I love my body: every curve, every dimple, and every roll on my belly. Yes, that's right. I'm a fitness editor and I have belly fat. I eat mostly clean, I work out five days a week, and yet I am not sporting anywhere close to a six-pack - and that is totally OK. While I wholly accept my body, I've found that when my midsection is not supported and covered up during workouts, my stomach becomes an annoying distraction.
It's simply not comfortable for me to be in Downward Dog or doing heavy lifting and have my stomach hanging over my waistband, or worse, have my waistband digging into my skin. To avoid this issue, I opt to wear high-rise leggings that have a touch of compression. Doing so keeps my stomach tucked in and supported and allows me to focus on what's really important: my workout. It also doesn't hurt that high-rise leggings look perfect with crop tops and longline sports bras. Over the years, I've found a few brands that simply outperform others. If you're like me and prefer a little extra fabric up top, this is the guide for you.
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?
Road-Trippin' Vegetarians Rejoice: Here Are Your Healthiest Fast Food Options
Eating on the go is tough, especially when you're a vegetarian. The first items that come to mind when you read the words "drive-thru" typically aren't veggie patties and salads, right? Yet, amid a sea of cheeseburgers and chicken tenders awaits a beacon of hope from seven run-of-the-mill fast food joints: vegetarian options.
These meatless meals and snacks are some of the healthier items on offer in chains across the country, so you can now travel (on a budget!) with added peace of mind. Feel free to use this as a travel guide when you're ordering on the go.
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.
72 Beautiful Wedding-Invite Printables to Download For Free!
Think you have a ton to spend on wedding invites? Think again. Wedding costs add up, so we've rounded up some of the best wedding-invitation printables out there, ranging from the artsy to the sweet, that might just change your mind on purchasing invites.
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.
A Strengthening and Heart-Pumping Workout That Will Only Take You 15 Minutes
Don't waste your time on a long, boring, mundane workout. Here's an eight-move bodyweight workout that moves fast and targets all the major muscle groups you care about: arms, abs, and butt. It will also get your heart rate up, up, up.
Directions: Complete 15 reps for each of the eight moves. Repeat the cycle again decreasing down to 10 reps per move, then a last cycle for five reps. Not enough of a workout for you? Repeat this 15-10-5 workout one or two more times.
The Moves
100 Real-Girl Tiny Tattoo Ideas For Your First Ink
If you're a little nervous about a permanent stamp, the best way to start is with something small. We can tell you firsthand that tattoo removal is no easy feat. Luckily, we have endless inspiration of real-girl tattoos that will leave you feeling less anxious about expressing something on your skin. Whether you're looking for a mark with meaning or just a fun design, keep reading to check out all of these teeny-tiny tattoo ideas.
- Additional reporting by Marina Liao
vendredi 17 novembre 2017
Your 6-Week Countdown Checklist to Scoring Perfect Wedding Hair
You got the ring, now it's time to start planning everything. Let us make the beauty part of that a little bit easier. We already shared a general beauty checklist and skin care guide to follow leading up to your big day. Now it's time to talk hair - styling, color, extensions. You need a plan, and it should start about six weeks before saying "I do."
First of all, don't make any drastic moves. "Never switch colorists before your wedding - it's too risky in not getting what you want," advises celebrity stylist and brand owner Rita Hazan. "If you have never colored your hair, I would not color it right before the wedding and do any major changes. You want to feel like yourself and don't want to take any risks in case the color doesn't turn out how you would like it to look."
Keep reading to score more insider tips from Hazan and other top industry pros on how to get your mane in bridal shape.
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.
12 Simple Holiday Traditions Your Family Can Embrace This Year
The holidays are an exciting time - the food, the gifts, the holiday movies! - but some people feel dread rather than delight during this time of year because of the loss of a loved one, the stress that comes with curating a Pinterest-perfect Christmas experience, or the letdown that ensues after New Year's Eve.
But there are ways to combat the holiday blues: traditions. Parents already know that children find great comfort and stability in rituals and repetition, but adults also benefit from having something to look forward to year after year. No matter your situation in life, having a trusted, joyful ritual that brings back happy memories can make dealing with the holidays bearable . . . and maybe even enjoyable. What's more, sometimes the simplest traditions make the biggest impact. Pick just one this season for a happier holiday.
Why Hiking Camelback Mountain in Phoenix Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
"It's going to be a hard route. It's vertical at times."
I smiled, thinking these locals were exaggerating, trying to scare off a tourist as they described a trail that was less than 1.5 miles up Camelback Mountain, the iconic peak towering over Phoenix. But 1.3 miles in the middle of an urban area? How difficult could it really be? I was a hiker and a runner, so something under a mile and a half? It would be a breeze, and it's one of those trails that every hiker and outdoors-lover should put on their bucket list.
Cut to me halfway up the mountain, grasping on to the handrails installed in the mountainside. I would have laughed at my yesterday self if I had the breath to waste. Here's what I learned about climbing the iconic Camelback.
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?
This Rosé Ornament Is What Happens When Happy Hour Meets Happy Holidays
This year, personalize your holiday decor with knickknacks and ornaments that reflect your unique interests - interests like wine, for example. As part of its holiday inventory, Urban Outfitters released an adorable and affordable Wine Glass Ornament ($12) that will really help you get into the Christmas spirit.
We know what you're thinking, and no, unfortunately the ornament is not filled with actual wine. Instead, it contains a nonspill liquid so it just resembles a full glass of wine. Right now, it seems as though Urban Outfitters is only selling a little Rosé ornament, however, it's likely that the retailer will release red and white wine ornaments later on.
Funny enough, alcohol-inspired ornaments seem to be quite the trend this holiday season. In the UK, The Lakes Distillery created boozy ornaments with whiskey, gin, and vodka. The best part? Those contain actual alcohol you can drink. If you're just into the aesthetic aspect, however, then Urban Outfitters' kitschy bauble is the way to go.
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.
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.
These K-Beauty Cushion Compacts Look Like Sparkly Snow Globes
The holiday season is the perfect excuse to douse yourself in glitter, and K-beauty brand Peripera has fully embraced that sentiment with its limited-edition Pearly Night collection.
While the line also includes hand creams, lip gloss, lip tints, and highlighters, the stand out of the collection has to be the snow globe-inspired cushion compact. The face of the compact is packed with glitter that moves around as you turn it. Available in both pink and lavender hues, the compact is a totally unique take on the cushion-compact concept. Watching videos of the product is simply hypnotizing, and because these aren't available in the States, we'll be stalking Amazon and eBay until we get our very own.
The other adorable product in the line is the Peripera Ink Velvet, which received the holiday treatment thanks to the addition of small snow globes on top of each cap. Inside each snow globe is a tiny bear, and you can shake the caps to make snow fall around the globe.
K-beauty products are unparalleled in the beauty industry when it comes to cute packaging, and we're hoping American brands catch on soon. Until then, we'll just have to dream of taking a trip to Seoul to shop all of adorable products for ourselves.
Here's the Lowdown on Glycolic Acid, Plus 10 Products That Put It in the Spotlight
If you haven't yet met glycolic acid, prepare to fall in love at first swatch. This superacid falls into the category of "alpha hydroxy acids" - or AHAs - which are naturally derived acids typically found in sugarcane, sugar beets, and fruit. Because a molecule of glycolic acid is smaller than its AHA counterparts (including lactic, mandelic, and citric acids), its particles are better able to penetrate the skin and are considered to be more effective.
"Glycolic acids are often used to treat acne scarring, skin discoloration, and signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles," explained Anita Sun, a medical esthetician and the founder of Dermovia. "It is also effective in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, melasma, seborrheic keratosis, and keratosis pilaris."
In other words, it's really, really ridiculously good at resurfacing the skin. But that's not all!
Sun added, "Glycolic acid helps to boost collagen production and is effective in plumping the skin supporting healthy skin tissue to remain firm and prevents wrinkles from forming. It's also effective in removing surface dead skin cells and removing oil build up in pores."
By incorporating this ingredient into your skincare routine, you'll notice a brighter and more even complexion - sometimes in as little as 24 hours. If you need glycolic acid in your life, we've listed our favorite products ahead.
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.
5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Christmas Tree Alive Through the Holidays
After spending countless hours searching for the perfect tree, the last thing you want is for it to lose its needles before Christmas Day. We get it. And the good news? Keeping a Christmas tree fresh, vibrant, and - of course - alive is much easier than one might think. In fact, all it takes are a few easy steps. So if you're joining the estimated 30 million other households that are celebrating the holiday season with a real evergreen, check out the five tips below to ensure yours, too, will merrily make it through all the tidings of comfort and joy.
1. Choose Your Tree Wisely
Of course, when aiming to maintain your tree's freshness, you'll want to ensure you choose a fresh, healthy one from the start. Therefore, when it comes to selecting your tree, remember to test for long-lasting freshness, especially if you are buying from a store or roadside lot, as these trees have likely been exposed to drying winds during transit.
During your inspection, gently pull on the needles of the outer branches. If they fall off easily, that will be your cue to move on. The same goes if you notice the tree loses a lot of needles - even green ones - when it's tapped on the ground. When inspecting the needles, bend them. Make sure they feel flexible, not brittle and dry. And remember: the fewer brown needles, the better. Any trees that have already begun fading in color are to be avoided, as these are the ones that will most likely dry up to a crisp before Santa arrives.
Lastly, don't forget to examine the trunk. This part of the tree should be as straight as possible so it can easily fit into the stand. Unfortunately, if you have to tear away some of the bark to make it fit, the tree will ultimately dry out sooner.
2. Handle With Care
After choosing your own healthy, green tree, it's important to start taking care of it right away. For starters, wrap the tree for the journey home. Because the blistering winds it will inevitably experience traveling on the top of your car can dry out the tree, avoid any damage by tightly covering all sides with either a plastic tarp or blanket. This will ensure your tree remains fresh with a capital "F."
Also, allow your tree to become properly acclimated before bringing it directly into your home. As eager as you might be to start the decorating process, exposing the tree from one extreme to another - such as the cold temperatures outside to the warmer ones indoors - will cause significant stress to the tree. To avoid dryness and the premature loss of needles, set the tree in an unheated area for about a day or two before bringing it inside, and remember to keep it in a bucket of water. Garages and basements are two great options for this transitional period. No matter which unheated area you use, make sure it is protected from wind or freezing temperatures.
3. Take Time to Trim
If you bought a precut tree, there's a good chance it has been patiently sitting on the lot for several days. Who knows? Maybe even a week or two. What this means is the vascular system that draws up water from the base has most likely become clogged. Therefore, it is crucial to take time to trim the trunk in order to reprime your tree. Cutting off a half-inch slice from the bottom will assist the tree in regaining its ability to absorb water more readily.
When you make the trim, a simple straight cut across is all it takes. As shocking as it might seem, drilling holes in the sides and/or cutting at an angle does not improve how well the tree will take in water. It will only make it harder for the tree stand to securely hold the tree.
Speaking of tree stands, make sure you choose one that properly fits your tree. If you choose one that's too small in size, your tree will not get as much water as it needs and will lose its healthy state faster. In addition, select a sturdy stand that holds at least one gallon of water.
4. Remember to Hydrate
Just as we humans need constant hydration, Christmas trees need an abundance of H2O, too. So remember to get your tree in water as soon as possible, because the longer the base keeps from drying out, the healthier and fresher your green giant will remain. Although the absorption rate of water varies from day to day, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that a typical tree drinks approximately a quart of liquid for each inch of its diameter. Therefore, always make a point to top off the tree stand with water each day. And if you want to be extra cautious, check the stand's reservoir twice a day to ensure it stays completely full.
While many people opt for using Christmas tree preservatives, studies have shown these additives are totally unnecessary. So if you want to make your tree last longer, forget about any magical mixtures. Plain water - and lots of it - will work just fine.
5. Location Is Key
Deciding on a spot to place your tree is one of the most important factors for keeping it healthy. Without a doubt, your tree will last longer if it is placed away from all sources of heat and sunlight. So when it comes to any fireplaces, radiators, vents, or air ducts, avoid them all. To maintain the most freshness, you may want to go as far as using a humidifier or lowering the temperature in the room to keep the air moist. And, if possible, use cool-to-touch LED lights, too. Because, as you might guess, the lower the heat, the longer the tree's needles will stay intact and the more vibrancy it will maintain.
Above all, remember the importance of safety. Avoid placing the tree in areas where it is likely to be knocked over, and ensure all lights and cords are in fitting working condition before you start decorating. Most importantly, don't forget to turn off the tree's lights at night when you sleep or when you leave your house for long periods.
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