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.
mercredi 29 novembre 2017
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.
Selena Gomez's New Hair Took 9 Hours and 8 Bowls of Bleach
We all collectively gasped in admiration when lifelong chocolate brunette Selena Gomez debuted a new icy blond shade at the American Music Awards. We wouldn't blame you if it inspired you to immediately book an appointment with your colorist. If you plan to take the platinum plunge, however, you should come prepared. Thankfully, the woman behind Selena's new hue filled us in on the quite grueling process.
Riawna Capri, who tag-teamed with Nikki Lee, revealed on Instagram that the "Nirvana Blonde" shade took "9 hours, about 300 foils, and 8 bowls of bleach, all with two stylist[s] working together simultaneously." DAMN.
She continued, "It was a nice, long patient process of baby fine slices, then going back and opening each foil and reapplying, but done in one sitting." Addressing fellow stylists, she assured that "anything is possible in one day, it just takes time, no other clients ha, and patience to maintain the integrity of the hair."
As for her advice to aspiring platinum blondes out there, Riawna urges you to "be VERY patient with your stylist." For hair as chic as Selena's? Anything.
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.
10 Morning Muffin Recipes Kids Will Love
If your mornings are anything like ours, they probably involve lots of chaos and a mad breakfast dash. But make one of the following morning muffins in advance, and you can be assured your kids won't go to school hungry. From a muffin that tastes just like monkey bread to healthier versions loaded with berries and even some savory ingredients, these muffins make for a great grab-and-go breakfast, so easy your kids can even eat them in the car!
The 1 Thing You Should Try Adding to Your Scrambled Eggs
Some people add milk to their scrambled eggs, some prefer heavy cream, and some scramble them in bacon fat. Even if you think you've tried it all, there's one sneaky ingredient you might not have added before, and that's worcestershire sauce. I found this idea in a Facebook comment on our post about how chefs scramble eggs, and I knew I wanted to try it myself because I'm a huge fan of the incredibly savory condiment. The sauce, which is typically used for steak and Bloody Marys, is made of anchovies (yes, really), garlic, vinegar, molasses, salt, onions, chili peppers, and other spices.
So how does it taste in scrambled eggs? It's interesting, but in a good way - I totally approve. I recommend adding 1/4 teaspoon of worcestershire sauce per two eggs and whisking everything together well before cooking your eggs low and slow. The sauce is already really salty, so you don't need to add any more salt. The eggs develop a slightly tangy, smoky, umami-rich flavor that's unlike any scrambled egg I've had before. If you have worcestershire sauce on hand anyway, give this a try. It just might become your favorite scrambled eggs recipe.
18 Gifts Apartment Dwellers Will Appreciate
When space is at a premium, as it is for the apartment dwellers in your life, the best gifts do double duty. Like an all-in-one condiment organizer for the tabletop, or a multi-tool that lets you hang and straighten your art at the same time, for example. Or they pack a lot of luxury into a tiny package, like a faux fur throw, or the world's coziest slippers. Of course, a touch of custom or quirk is always welcome in any gift, like a set of whiskey glasses from a favorite city, or a cheerful bird mobile because . . . well, just because. Whether your thing is form or function, these fun and functional gifts are perfect for your apartment-dwelling friends.
The Most Popular Lipstick on Pinterest Only Costs $8
True life: I'm a prestige beauty brand sucker. I'm fancy and fabulous, which means that I've paid upward of $50 for one single lipstick. Yes, it's too much. Do I regret it? Absolutely not - my lips looked totally fire. However, according to Pinterest, one of the best and most popular shades out there retails for a very affordable $9.
As Allure reports, the photo-sharing website has noticed a spike in interest for L'Oréal Paris Infallible Paints in Spicy Blush ($9). Although it's definitely more of a lacquer than your traditional lipstick bullet, this shade has won fans over with its opaque coverage and shiny, almost vinyl-esque finish.
As one Target reviewer wrote, "I think [Spicy Blush] is a perfect color on any skin tones. It's just a perfect color for anyone, really." According to another, "These lip paints are gorgeous with amazing color payoff . . . I don't feel the need to reapply excessively." Can we get a "hell yeah" for a lunch-proof shine?
What's more, the rose hue is crazy-versatile. It's subdued and dusty enough for Fall and Winter, but just bright enough once Spring comes around again. It's almost like the white button-down shirt of lip paints - an old, reliable go-to that looks chic and polished.
100 Beauty Memes That Will Make You LOL
Few things have the ability to brighten our day like a solid meme. But we found something even better than the average meme - beauty memes! Whether you're a hair and makeup pro or just learning how to braid your hair, these funny photos are bound to make you laugh.
Source: Instagram user makeupkaykay
17 Photos That Prove Blond Works on Every Skin Tone
We tend to be so attached to our hair that even the merest cut or trim can spark months of mourning until the lost inches grow back. That's even more true when it comes to color. Despite the popularity of bright hair color trends inspired by everything from Fruity Pebbles to candy floss, the idea of going blond is still a bold move many shy away from. If you're on the fence about adopting the bold color, let your inhibitions go and let the following beauties inspire you to become a bottle blond.
What to Pack in Your Bridal Beauty Survival Kit
Even the most prepared bride can encounter beauty mishaps on her wedding day. But you've spent so much time getting ready; it would be a shame to not be prepared in case something goes awry. So consider arranging a bridal survival kit to pack with you for the ceremony and reception. It should contain everything you need for wedding day minidisasters, from preaisle jitters to runny mascara and stained dresses. Spread the items among your bridesmaids so you'll never be without your tools in a clutch. Scroll to see what to have on hand to be prepared for every outcome or print it before your big day!
Makeup Mishaps:
- Blotting papers to battle shiny skin in your photos
- Makeup remover pads if you get misty-eyed
- Lip gloss to keep you looking polished
- Q-tips for smudges
- Eye drops to quell redness
- Facial tissues to wipe away what needs to be wiped away
Hair Hijinks:
- Hair spray for quick pickups (and clingy dresses)
- Extra hairpins for updos (but ensure the style passes a jump test, too)
- Compact mirror for periodic dance floor checkups
- Travel comb and brush
Dress Debacle:
- Clear nail polish (if you're wearing stockings) to fix runs
- An emery board, to prevent snags in case you get a jagged nail
- White chalk to cover any stains or scuffs
- Dry shampoo to keep sweat at bay under the arms and down the bride's back
- Feminine hygiene items
- Band-Aids for blisters and cuts
- Krazy Glue for heel fixes and veil tears
- Double-sided tape and safety pins to hold whatever needs to be held together together
Kissing Close-Ups:
- A travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss and mints
- A sample size of your favorite fragrance
- Antacid, aspirin, and Pepto-Bismol to banish prewedding nerves and aches
Be sure to check out POPSUGAR Beauty on Pinterest, where you'll find a pin-friendly version of the above!
Here's What Those Russian Facebook Ads We've Been Hearing About Actually Look Like
Thanks to ongoing public hearings in Washington DC centered on Russia's social media meddling during the 2016 election, we finally have our first real look at what it is that Vladimir Putin's fabled troll farms were actually doing. The bad news? Much of what was provided as evidence by the House Intelligence Committee on Nov. 1 is not that far off from what we've come to expect from overzealous Americans on all sides of the political spectrum.
To be clear, only a sampling of the more than 3,000 ads that were purchased in the lead-up to the election have been shared with the public so far. But what is immediately evident to any regular Facebook user is that outside of some very, very misused colloquialisms and a few bizarre cultural interpretations, the extent to which the Russian infiltrators were able to successfully manipulate social tensions is staggering. Tackling everything from Black Lives Matter to gun policy to Islam, the level of sophistication and mimicry present is incredibly hard to wrap your head around, especially when put against a background of fringe voices that are louder now than ever.
Ahead, we've pulled together many of the images released by Congress as evidence for easy viewing. But as California Senator Dianne Feinstein said during the hearings, "What we're talking about is a cataclysmic change. What we're talking about is the beginning of cyberwarfare. What we're talking about is a major foreign power with sophistication and ability to involve themselves in a presidential election and sow conflict and discontent all over this country. We are not going to go away, gentlemen. And this is a very big deal."
From where we stand, with nearly 126 million Americans having seen these downright inflammatory posts and not having thought anything of it - well, we really couldn't agree more. And perhaps being able to put some tangible imagery behind the amorphous idea of Russian meddling will make us all think twice before we scroll past an image such as the ones ahead on any of our social feeds ever again.
This Japanese Method of Gift Wrapping Will Take You 15 Seconds - No Joke!
The Japanese department store Takashimaya has gone viral over the past few years for its unique and crazy-fast gift-wrapping method. YouTube user BeatTheBush created a video that breaks down the steps for you so that you can try wrapping presents like this yourself. All it takes are three pieces of tape and three folds. Watch how to do it, then master the method so you can save tons of time - it will take just 15 seconds once you become a pro!
The 12 Trendiest Travel Destinations of 2017
Throughout 2017, travelers took on new adventures to discover the trendiest destinations and best places to go around the world. We've compiled a list of this year's most popular travel hot spots that are buzzing all over social media. Decide which destination you want to explore and start packing!
11 Images That Only True Introverts Will Relate To
If you can't deal with crowds, prefer time with your pet over time with actual people, and find peace in the quiet of a familiar space (alone), then you might be an introvert. Introverts are deep-thinking do-gooders who gain energy and inspiration from themselves rather than from other people. Introverts are seriously amazing, but certain aspects of the personality type can lead to some kind of . . . awkward situations. An awesome artist and self-proclaimed extreme introvert put these situations into comics that will be SO real to introverts who live them daily. We're cringing/relating on all sorts of levels.
What Diversity and Inclusion in Modeling Means to 9 Victoria's Secret Angels
With 55 models representing 20 countries cast in the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Shanghai, it was bound to be the most diverse cast yet. And when we spoke with the models backstage before they show, they were feeling empowered by these stats.
Plus, lead hairstylist Anthony Nadar and Tom Pecheaux made sure to embrace the models' natural beauty and features. For hair, Nadar gave most models glam bombshell waves using a blow dryer, extensions, and a curling iron. While this style looks gorgeous on many, it can damage natural hair. So anyone who has curly hair was able to rock their god-given texture. On the makeup side, Pecheaux cocktails Victoria's Secret Velvet Matte Lio Cream Stains to create bespoke nude shades for each model.
Here, nine models weighed in on what being in the most diverse roster yet means to them.
The 23 Best New Books of Winter Will Have You Hibernating Over the Holidays
Brenda Janowitz is the POPSUGAR books correspondent. She is the author of five novels, including The Dinner Party.
Brrr, it's getting cold out there. The holiday season is upon us and the snow will be falling soon, but don't fret. I've got just the thing for your Winter blues. I'm ready to tell you what to read after you hit the slopes and settle in to relax by that warm fire. So grab a hot chocolate, and get ready - I've got the best new books of Winter!
The Truth Behind Costco’s $5 Rotisserie Chicken
Image Source: Flickr user terren in Virginia
We can always count on Dr. Oz to expose the truth about our favorite foods. He recently investigated the hidden ingredients in rotisserie chicken, and now we finally know why it's so addictive. He teamed up with award-winning writer Mark Schatzker to figure out why Americans can't get enough of the stuff, especially Costco's $5 rotisserie chicken.
The first shocking piece of information is that rotisserie chicken is often processed, in other words, "pre-seasoned in factories," and then shipped to supermarkets, where "an employee can put it on the skewer and cook it." You may already know part of what makes store-bought rotisserie chickens so tasty is that they're on the salty side, but the skin is also flavored with MSG and sugar, among other natural flavors. Similar to potato chips, this combination helps explain why we can never have too much rotisserie chicken. Despite the seemingly scariness of it all, Dr. Oz says it may be "one of the healthiest processed foods out there." And in similar Dr. Oz. fashion, he suggests taking off the skin to keep it healthier. But if that sounds like insanity, add other sides to your plate to avoid overeating.
Image Source: The Dr. Oz. ShowWatch the full video: Dr. Oz on rotisserie chicken
I Made Dirt-Cheap Meals For a Week, and Here’s How I Survived
One day, while feeling particularly dismal about spending yet another $100 on groceries for the week in San Francisco, I read a post that forever changed my outlook on food expenditures: "This Story of How 1 Woman Saved $30,000 in 8 Months Will Motivate You (and Crack You Up!)." I laughed! I cried! It motivated me to get to work. While dumpster diving won't be my method of saving money on food, I had a profound realization: my fridge, pantry, and freezer probably contained enough food to feed me for "free" for at least several weeks, so I set out to only eat from items I already owned. The reserves lasted me well over a week, and in all honesty, I'm still working on clearing it out. Check yours and you'll likely discover an astonishing amount of food that's gathering dust and ice chips. Like me, you may have avoided this food for months. But, when I challenged myself to be creative, I came up with some tasty ways to straight-up survive off of it. You will too, once you read my tips.
If You're Small Up Top, You'll Love These Sports Bras
Listen, there's a difference between having small boobs and no boobs. As someone who has the endlessly annoying size of 30D (that not even Victoria's Secret makes), I know as well as you that even though you're small, there's still volume that requires support. From high-impact activities like running to gentle Vinyasa classes, I've tested dozens of (if not upwards of 100) sports bras and currently have about 50 that I pull from. Despite having so many options available, there are a few I *always* reach for repeatedly. Check out any of these during your next workout - you'll feel sexy, supported, stable, and stylish.
Hillary Clinton's Response to Trump's "Crooked Hillary" Tweet Is the Ultimate Mic Drop
You guys didn't actually think Hillary Clinton would be able to release her latest book in peace without some sort of snide comments about it from Donald Trump, now did you? Just one day after Clinton's memoir, What Happened, became available to the public, POTUS used his favorite method of communication (Twitter, naturally) to revive the "Crooked Hillary" nickname and mock her election loss, which is a main topic in the memoir.
Crooked Hillary Clinton blames everybody (and every thing) but herself for her election loss. She lost the debates and lost her direction!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017
The "deplorables" came back to haunt Hillary.They expressed their feelings loud and clear. She spent big money but, in the end, had no game!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 14, 2017
But rather than sit back and allow his criticism to go unnoticed, Clinton fired back with a witty, oh-so-perfect suggestion.
If you didn't like that book, try this one - some good lessons in here about working together to solve problems. Happy to send a copy. http://pic.twitter.com/7dmVJ44mZu
- Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 14, 2017
What a burn! On the surface, her response is certainly sassy, but it's about 10 times sassier once you take a closer look and realize that she shared a photo of the new children's version of her bestselling 1996 book - a version that's filled with illustrated pictures aimed at preschool-level kids. Damn, Hillz. We see you! And the rest of the internet certainly took note of her mic-drop-worthy comeback as well.
All of us reading Hillary's tweet to Trump http://pic.twitter.com/Vbd0a8dHwF
- Brian A. Hernandez (@BAHjournalist) September 14, 2017
Get it Girl 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
- Karla Welch Stylist (@karla_welch) September 14, 2017
...and she used the picture book version! This slayage alone gets two snaps up... http://pic.twitter.com/fyf6FwVQ5W
- Nila N. Brown🌻 (@AuthorNNBrown) September 14, 2017
Queen of SHADE!
- Maggie Klaus 🍩 (@Maggie_Klaus) September 14, 2017
The 1 Thing I Gave Up in My Diet to Finally Ease My Anxiety Symptoms
I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder when I was in graduate school, although I suffered from anxiety symptoms for many years before that. I was told that I had a form of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which manifests in different ways for different people. For me, it meant that I was hardly sleeping and I often felt like I was suffocating, especially if I was in a crowded place or stressful situation. I also had a nasty habit of ripping off the skin around my fingernails and on the callouses of my feet, which resulted in a lot of blood, pain, and embarrassment. The medical term for this is dermatophagia or excoriation.
My doctor prescribed me a few different kinds of medications over the years, and while they did help me feel more relaxed in the moment, they were nothing more than a band-aid. I needed to figure out a way to quell my anxiety symptoms for good.
If you've ever felt the jitters after your morning cup of joe, imagine that feeling amplified 100 times over, to the point where you feel like your heart might beat out of your throat.
I was at a point in my life where I was doing a lot of yoga and learning more about holistic treatments, like meditation, acupuncture, and herbal supplements. I decided to go the all-natural route and change up the things in my life that I had control over. Over the course of several months, I changed my eating habits, eliminating all fried and processed foods, meditated every day, and significantly limited my time on social media. I also kept seeing my therapist regularly.
All of these definitely helped, but I was still dealing with my heart racing at inopportune times, particularly in the morning as I got my day started. I happened to stumble upon a blog post one day that spoke about the dangerous connection between caffeine and anxiety. If you've ever felt the jitters after your morning cup of joe, imagine that feeling amplified 100 times over, to the point where you feel like your heart might beat out of your throat. That's what it's like to drink coffee as someone with anxiety.
At that point in my life, I was having one or two cups of coffee a day, and it was a ritual I absolutely loved. I was a coffee snob, in fact (I blame it on my time living in Australia, which has the best coffee culture on the planet). However, I started to realize that every time I drank a cup of coffee, my hands would shake, I would get the nervous sweats, and I felt dehydrated. I just felt crappy all around. Yet somehow I just thought this was normal for people who drank coffee and that it was merely a sacrifice you had to make to enjoy the classic morning beverage.
After reading that blog post, I decided to give it up cold turkey. Unfortunately, I had ear-splitting headaches that radiated in my kneecaps for seven days straight, but after the withdrawal symptoms went away, the magic kicked in.
The longer I went without coffee, the more relaxed I felt throughout the day. I meditated in the morning instead of drinking a black coffee, which set me up to feel calm and even-keeled. As a result, I didn't get the afternoon crash and I simply felt more in control of my mind. I no longer felt frantic. My body started to produce its own energy rather than relying on caffeine to wake me up every day. Most importantly, my skin-picking habits slowly started to fall away. Because I was feeling less jittery than ever before, I had way fewer urges to peel the skin away from my fingers.
My body started to produce its own energy rather than relying on caffeine to wake me up every day. Most importantly, my skin-picking habits slowly started to fall away.
Since I've experienced these positive changes, I've spoken to quite a few people and read online that many others find relief from their intense anxiety symptoms when they give up coffee. Individuals with anxiety disorders already deal with enough excess energy as it is; our minds race for hours about the most minute things, we can't sit still, and we worry about everything until we're blue in the face. Caffeine promotes this rapid turnover of energy, so giving it up actually gives your body the chance to decompress and find its equilibrium.
I'm not saying that everyone with anxiety should give up coffee cold turkey (don't do it cold turkey, whatever you do!). But I found so much relief in my everyday life that I don't think I could ever go back to drinking caffeinated beverages. It's been two years since I gave up coffee, and my anxiety has only steadily improved over this time. I'm more in tune with what my body needs, and I'm quicker to engage in healthy self-care practices when I start to feel overwhelmed, like a Yin yoga session or a long, hot bath.
Even though I still love the smell of coffee, I don't miss it anymore. The pros have far outweighed the cons, and plus, if I feel like I need a warm, soothing beverage, I make myself a rooibos or chamomile tea. And it doesn't make my heart race a million miles an hour.
The First and Last Lines of the Harry Potter Books Will Send You on a Roller Coaster of Emotions
The witches and wizards in the world of Harry Potter came a LONG way over the course of seven novels. If you're a hardcore fan, then it probably felt a bit like it was your own journey as well. Rereading the first line of The Sorcerer's Stone and the last line of The Deathly Hallows back to back will make you feel so many things. It's bittersweet, it's funny, it's nostalgic, and it will definitely make you smile. Or cry. Or both.
We put together the first and last sentences of all the books, and they'll remind you of everything, good and bad, that your favorite characters made it through (or didn't make it through; still not OK about the whole Fred thing, Rowling). Yet still, in the end, all was well.
I Found the Perfect Mascara For Anyone Scared to Use an Eyelash Curler
I am incapable of using an eyelash curler. Believe me, I've tried: I curled my eyelashes every day for an entire year to try to master the skill, and I still never got it right. I know my lashes can be curled. I've seen other people do it, and I know what a difference it makes. But ultimately, my lack of fine motor skills overcame my desire for perfect lashes, and I gave up.
I am lucky to have long lashes that show a lot of promise. Because they are fairly straight, the length isn't as noticeable when my lashes are sticking straight out. But coax them upward and suddenly they are the kind of lashes people notice.
However, without an eyelash curler, I need my mascara to do all of the curling, lengthening, and separating for me while also not looking clumpy - which is a tall order. Over the years, I have tried mascara after mascara that friends and POPSUGAR editors have raved about, only to be disappointed. I ask near-strangers what magical mascara they are wearing, but the magic never works on me.
Then I tried Stila Huge Extreme Lash Mascara ($23) and I knew immediately that my search was over. Read on to learn why I'm obsessed with Stila Huge.
11 Things Your Uber and Lyft Drivers Wished You Knew - Before Getting in Their Cars
Just because you know how to open the app on your phone and request an Uber or Lyft doesn't mean that you're a pro - or even a well-liked passenger. Once you get out of the car, drivers talk, and there are many things that riders have in common: they make the same car-service "mistakes."
We chatted with 13 different Uber and Lyft drivers who, with the promise of anonymity, got real about the most annoying things passengers don't know and what they want riders to learn before requesting their next pickup. From simple assumptions to serious faux pas, find out what these strangers hope you know when you get in their personal cars . . . unless you want to be one of those riders.
1. Their cars aren't magical.
Four-passenger vehicles will only fit four people. Period.
2. Don't be rude, and you'll get picked up faster.
If your rating falls below 4.5, many drivers will be hesitant to pick you up, and it will take longer for the app to match you.
3. Don't just look for their cars - be aware of where you're standing.
Especially in crowded cities or on busy streets, don't wait in a ridiculous spot that makes it impossible (or dangerous!) for them to stop to get you. "I had a guy refuse to cross the street for me. We yelled back and forth, and I let him know in no uncertain terms that I wouldn't be picking him up in a clearly marked 'BUS ONLY' lane. He became more and more belligerent until I told him to hang on a second, got my phone out of the car, and had him watch me cancel and get the fee," a driver said.
4. You have until 30 days after a ride to give a tip, so "forgetting" isn't an excuse.
"To tip your driver using the app, you must download the updates. I've learned that most passengers haven't updated, so I remind them and share that they have 30 days to tip. Guess what? I'm getting several tips days after completing rides."
5. All laws still apply - including car seats and open containers.
Their cars aren't a place to extend your pregame or get the party started, and little ones need their car seats at all times (and, no, your lap doesn't count). "No parent is ignorant of car seat laws; I hate it when they argue about it."
6. They are driving you in their family car.
So please just respect it!
7. Age really does matter.
"No one under 18 is allowed to use the service unless someone 18 or over is riding with them, so please don't allow your 12-year-old to have an Uber account."
8. The driver has to pay for everything, so don't be a jerk.
"Some passengers actually believe that Uber provides things for drivers, like our phones or GPS, or that they pay for the gas or repairs," a driver said. "We own our cars and all expenses that come with it. All gas, maintenance, and repairs are all on the driver - Uber and Lyft pay absolutely nothing toward that."
9. Bad things happen when you get too comfortable.
"Sometimes they pass out, and you can't wake them up. We legally aren't allowed to touch them, so we have to call the police when people don't wake up."
10. You, and the person before you, have the power to change a driver's day.
"Be forewarned that there are a lot of very angry and cynical veteran drivers out there that have been burned by these companies and by passengers who behaved badly."
11. Only request an Uber Pool or Lyft Line when you're actually OK with sharing your ride.
Passengers not knowing what they're getting into before requesting shared rides are a big problem for drivers. "Many passengers don't understand how it works, and they get angry when you have to pick up another passenger or if the passenger picked up after them is dropped off first," a driver said. "Sometimes passengers don't respect other passengers and are loud or disrespectful. People end up getting mad at the drivers, and their ratings go down because of it."
Filthy Dishwasher? How to Naturally Clean It
Yes, your dishwasher is made for washing dishes, but what happens to all the bits of food and other grime that get washed away? Sadly, they don't magically disappear. Just like the sink, giving your dishwasher a good cleaning keeps it from being a deceptively dirty spot. And this cleaning solution uses natural ingredients and is complete after a single dishwasher cycle with absolutely no scrubbing.
- Empty your dishwasher, and remove or pull out the lower dish rack as far as possible. Locate the drain, and clean around it, removing the filter and thoroughly washing. Check all the spinning arms, and clear holes of debris or buildup with a paper towel.
- Place one cup of plain white distilled vinegar in a container on the bottom rack of the dishwasher. Now pour a half-cup of baking soda into a small dish and place on the top rack, or swap for two dishwasher-cleaning bombs.
- Run the dishwasher, and let the vinegar and baking soda work their magic. Vinegar is naturally antibacterial, breaking up buildup while cleaning. Baking soda helps bust up hard water collections and works together with the vinegar to superclean the inside of your dishwasher.
- Once the dishwasher has run through the cycle, let it sit closed for 20 minutes and continue to steam clean. Now open the dishwasher, and wipe the inside with a paper towel or soft sponge. Along with being shiny clean, your dishwasher will work wonders on your dishes!
Add cleaning your dishwasher to your monthly cleaning list, and your dishes with thank you.
8 Angels Reveal Their Favorite Victoria's Secret Fragrances - Ever!
While Victoria's Secret is undoubtably known for its amazing lingerie, sleepwear, and sporty styles - the fragrances are some of the popular products there in terms of sales. Growing up, you likely bought one from your local mall. And while there are many nostalgic VS fragrances, the brand has been launching fresh scents like Love and the limited-edition Bombshell Shanghai 2017 ($55) to cater to modern shoppers.
Backstage before the 2017 Victoria's Secret Show in Shanghai, we quizzed the Angels on which one is their go-to scent!
Major Life Hack: You Can Get PSL Oatmeal at Starbucks
I've considered myself extremely well versed in Starbucks hacks, but when our Fitness director Michele Foley told me she had made pumpkin spice oatmeal at the hallowed halls of the green siren, I may or may not have started screaming in our conference room. She has allowed me to share this blessed secret with all of you, so without further ado: Happy holidays and, you're welcome.
The trick? Ask the barista to add some pumpkin spice sauce to your classic oatmeal. That's it! You may or may not know that you can also up the ante by having your barista make your oats with steamed milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk, depending on your dietary preferences. The result is a creamy flavored oatmeal that has as much holiday spirit as it does health benefits. It's the next best thing to having actual pumpkin pie for breakfast, in our opinion.
You can add as many pumps as you like - the barista will charge you the standard rate in your area for extra syrup. Michele only did one pump and it made her oatmeal nice and subtly spicy (just look at that rich orange color!). She noted that "two is the magic number" and suggested adding nuts and cranberries for a festive addition. Top it off with a little cinnamon and nutmeg from the bar, and you've got an instant gourmet meal.
And fun fact: if you're not into pumpkin, you can totally do this with other syrups and sauces. Maybe cinnamon dolce is more your style, or you're feeling like eggnog for the holidays (you can have them make it with eggnog instead of milk, if you're feeling indulgent). Bon appetit!
Ashley Fought Stress-Induced Weight Gain and Lost 95 Pounds in 11 Months
Stress caused Ashley Witter's weight to reach an unhealthy range, and it wasn't until she got a tip from a family member that she realized she needed to get help.
Ashley: Before
After enduring some difficult life changes and dealing with a high-stress job, she turned to food as a comfort. Her aunt told her about a weight-loss treatment center called Structure House, where Ashley was able to lose almost 100 pounds in less than a year. But to her, it was less about pounds lost and more about how she felt - she wanted the "old Ashley" back. She got what she hoped for, and then some. It took a lot of work, but Ashley quit her job, took matters into her own hands, and found happiness and health in the process.
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Ashley Witter: I hit my breaking point in my high-level corporate job working numerous hours, not eating throughout the day, and not sleeping at night. I was turning to food, wine, cheese, and whatever I could find late at night. My energy level had depleted, and I had gained close to 40 pounds in a year and couldn't do it anymore. I was sick, so I finally decided enough was enough and put in my resignation at my job. I had to find my old self again and get better. That's when my family suggested I go to Structure House.
PS: What do you think contributed to your weight gain?
AW: STRESS! The first thing I was taught when I went to Structure House was why we overeat as humans. The three reasons are stress, boredom, and habit. I was stressed all the time. My cortisol levels were off the grid, and my metabolism was suffering. I was skipping meals and not eating the "right" foods. I was tired, had low energy, and wasn't getting the physical activity that I used to. Gradually, over the course of probably four years, I continued to gain more and more. The more stressed out I got, the more weight I packed on.
PS: What drew you to Structure House specifically?
AW: I chose Structure House because my aunt had been twice and told me about what a wonderful and safe place it was. I didn't think I had a problem - denial at its best - but I knew I needed help. My family tried to kindly tell me I had a weight problem and that they were worried, but I didn't want to listen. I felt like, "This was my life and these are the cards I was dealt." Once I hit my breaking point, I knew that I needed to go to Structure House and get help. My family was fully supportive of my decision and helped me along the way.
PS: Had you tried other methods of weight loss before Structure House?
AW: Unlike others, I never really struggled with my weight until the past four or five years. Bad breakups, high-level corporate jobs, and simply life itself began to take a toll on me. I was always very active, played sports, and loved the outdoors, but yes, I tried some weight-loss methods such as powdered shakes, staying away from gluten, quick-fix type of things. Besides losing some immediate water weight, none of these diets ever worked or were something that could be maintained. Plus, when I cut my portions too much, I would hardly have the energy to work out. I was doing it all wrong.
"The more stressed out I got, the more weight I packed on."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
AW: Again, I have always loved sports my entire life and even when I was heavier I kept pushing to be active. I love backpacking, hiking, kayaking, snow skiing - pretty much anything outdoors. I have found in the past year that I really love boot camps and circuit training.
Ashley: After
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
AW: I was taught by Structure House to get at least 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a week. I do just that. I mix my workouts between cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. I hit the gym maybe three times a week as well as doing a group bootcamp class, running on the treadmill, or hitting the weights doing arm/leg workouts and repetitions. I love yoga, so I try to do a class or so a week of hot yoga. I wear a Fitbit and try every day to get at least 10,000 steps a day. That means when I am at work, I get up and move - this is key. On the weekends I am hiking, kayaking, or running. I also allow my body to recover, so I believe in letting your body have rest days as well.
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
AW: I am all about changing it up and keeping it exciting. I love to exercise in general, so I find hiking and backpacking are my favorite activities. You can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and not even realize sometimes that you are getting a great workout. I have also had fun running 5Ks with my boyfriend. He is active as well so we help keep each other accountable, while having fun at the same time.
PS: How much weight have you lost?
AW: Since my stay at Structure House in October 2015, I have lost 95 pounds in 11 months and have maintained that weight. My weight has plateaued, so now I am more focused on building lean body mass.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
AW: For me, honestly, it wasn't really about the pounds lost, but more that I felt so much better. I came back to life again, and my energy was back. I found the old "Ashley" again, and that is what made me so proud. I didn't ever think that would be possible.
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
AW: Structure House gave us a diary to record our food. When I left the facility, I continued to use my diary and maintain my 1,400-calorie intake. Every time I finished a book, I would call Structure House and have them send me a new one. I don't use my diary much anymore because I have a pretty good hold on what I am taking in terms of calories, but if I ever feel like I am slipping, I start recording again. It was a great way to hold me accountable for what I was eating.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
AW: I follow myplate.com pretty much for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I make sure at every meal that I have a protein, plenty of veggies, fruit, a dairy, and carbs. I eat nutrient-dense food that keeps me full. I have eliminated as much salt as possible and make healthy choices. I am pretty consistent on what I eat - lots of veggies (I love roasted brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes), lean meat, berries, Greek yogurt, and 100-percent whole-wheat options. I stay away from processed foods as much as possible. I read labels to make sure foods are low in trans and saturated fat and low in sugar and sodium. When I snack, I usually have a Kind bar or something simple made with whole ingredients.
Ashley: Before and After
PS: Do you count calories?
AW: Even though I have lost 95 pounds, I am still mindful of the calories that I am taking in. I am mindful and aware, and that is what has helped me be successful in my journey. Most people do not even realize the amount of calories they are taking in. So yes, I do keep track. I stick between 1,400-1,500 calories per day of nutrient-dense foods. If I eat something that is not as healthy, I am aware and only eat a little. Moderation is key in weight loss. Making change takes time, so having a treat every now and then is not a bad thing.
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
AW: I eat egg-white omelets almost every morning, so I stock my fridge with good veggies and fruit. I buy a lot of chicken and lean meats so I have a protein. I buy a lot of 100-percent whole-wheat sandwich thins and wraps. I love avocados and salsa. I pretty much mirror my food choices based off of what was cooked for me at Structure House.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
AW: Again, I am pretty boring, so I eat the same thing a lot. I am pretty consistent with my meals, so it hardly seems like work anymore. When I go out to eat, I research the restaurant first to figure out the healthy options I can choose from. I love Longhorns because they have a calorie counter for all the food. I can have an incredible meal for 430 calories.
"It wasn't really about the pounds lost . . . I came back to life again and my energy was back. I found the old Ashley."
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker? Which one, and how do you think it helped you?
AW: I use a Fitbit. I have bought one for all my family members as well. It has helped me a lot, plus it is a great thing for everyone. I love that Fitbit allows you to compete against each other. My dad is now super competitive with my brother and me. It's a win for everyone. Also, I know when my steps are down that it is time to move.
PS: What role did Structure House play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
AW: Structure House changed my life! I have told this to all the staff: I wouldn't be the person I am today without them. They gave me the tools to regain my life back. Not only am I back to my old self, but I have never felt better. I now work at a job I love, and I got asked to teach the Health Coaching certificate program at an accredited university in Georgia. My work lets me run weight-loss challenges, and I am creating my own health coaching website to help others. I met an incredible man, and I just couldn't be happier. I have realized that you have to love yourself before you can love others. I can't thank Structure House enough.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
AW: Take a leap of faith and make yourself happy. You have one life to live, and make it the best it can be. There is no reason to go through life unhappy and unhealthy. We are all in charge of our own destiny, so why not make this life the best it can be? Also, you are not alone. So many people struggle with weight issues, but there is hope - I promise.
13 Things You Should Stop Saying to Your Kids Now
Sticks and stones may break kids' bones, put a parent's words can truly hurt them. In moments of anger and frustration, we tend to say things to or around our children without thinking of the consequences. There are some, like our favorite four-letter word, that evoke laughter from kids. And there are other, less humorous phrases that can make kids cry, lower their self-esteem, and potentially ruin their relationship with a parent. Though it may take some extra effort, here are a few phrases you should stop saying to your children (along with some compelling reasons why) immediately.
6 Things You Learn When You Grow Up Hijabi
Image Source: UnSplash / Muhammad Haikal Sjukri
As many of you might already know, "hijab" is the Arabic name for the headscarf that many Muslim women decide to wear. Some of us live in Western countries now due to social and historical changes, but so many people here know very little or nothing about Islam. Although we are engaged in public life, this lack of knowledge can often lead to uneasy, and sometimes upsetting, situations.
Here is what I have learned after wearing the hijab for almost 10 years:
1. You may forget that you're wearing a scarf on your head, but the stares are going to remind you.
I still remember when I had just started to wear it. Sometimes I used to forget that there was a piece of fabric wrapped around my head. So whenever I caught someone staring at me very intensely, I would start checking my clothes or my face in the nearest mirror to then realize that I was wearing a hijab.
With time, I can say that I have become used to the attention, and I do not notice it as much as I once did. But whenever I hang out with new people, every single one of them asks me: "Why are they staring?" Thankfully, this has started to happen much less in big cities, where the majority of people are getting used to a diverse population. Oddly, it's these busy, overpopulated areas from which people usually need a break that I go to when I need to catch a breath and be treated like everyone else.
2. Many people assume the wrong equation: Muslim = Visitor From Abroad.
I completely feel part of my country, the one in which I was born and raised: a secular Western republic. It's a place where, theoretically speaking, religion does not define a citizen. It seems that's a principle only applied in institutional buildings and few other places. For the rest of the time, wherever you go, whatever you want to buy, they are going to ask you for your Stay Permit or Visa. Every single time you are going to answer, "I'm from here," and they are going to get a stunned or shocked look on their faces and say, "Oh, sorry."
It is especially frustrating to my friends who have converted to become Muslim, because no one assumed they were foreigners until they decided to believe in another faith.
Image Source: UnSplash / Jerry Kiesewetter
3. Some just can't believe that someone wants to cover.
It took me a while to understand and fully accept that this is how it is. Some people are going to bombard you with questions and arguments supporting the fact that covering cannot be something that you choose to do of your win free will, and it definitely cannot be considered a way to express who you are. To them, the only thing a hijab shouts out is: "Hey, I am a Muslim."
It's always up to us. If we want to do or wear something different than what is considered ordinary, we have to be prepared to face this kind of criticism.
4. Blending in is not impossible, but it's going to take a while.
Most of the stares (and the very weird questions) that we get come from a lack of knowledge about what Islam is and are because of all those terrible events that happened post-9/11. But if you take time to explain to people that extremist individuals cannot represent 1.7 billion Muslims and that we live in the West because we like it here, their whole attitude may potentially change.
5. Trust the arts.
Although some politicians sometimes make us feel as if there will no longer be space for people like us, all forms of art are opening their doors to us. Consider the fashion industry: so many brands are featuring hijabis in their ads and even on their runway shows during Fashion Week. Anniesa Hasibuan hosted a runway show in which all models wore hijabs, while Halima Aden has become the first woman in a hijab to grace the cover of Allure.
6. We can write our own narrative.
In what seems a very controversial time to be alive, we have one thing in particular to be grateful for: the internet. This very powerful tool is accessible to everyone and connects every corner of the world, giving anyone and everyone a chance to express themselves. I feel that, thanks to bloggers and vloggers, people are starting to realize that we are all one and the same, because they can finally see that "these Muslims" lead very regular lives.
It's this last point indeed that makes me very hopeful, because it is also thanks to the internet that we Western Muslim women are not alone anymore in this sort of fight to normalize that garment we proudly wear as part of the free world.
Missouri State Congressman Claims "Homosexuals" and "Human Beings" Are Different
Believe it or not, there is an American congressman who genuinely does not understand the definition of human being. Missouri state Representative Rick Brattin, revealed that he believed there is a "distinction" between human beings and people who are gay during a debate over a bill protecting the state's LGBTQ community from discrimination.
In Missouri, citizens can legally be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation. On May 8, state legislators attempted to pass an amendment banning sexual-orientation-based prejudice when Brattin expressed his concern over the proposal.
"When you look at the tenets of religion, of the Bible, of the Quran, of other religions, there is a distinction between homosexuality and just being a human being," Brattin told the House floor. According to The Kansas City Star, Brattin has yet to clarify his statement, although it aligns with his previous push for teaching creationism in public schools.
Brattin's inadequate understanding of elementary biology is not the first time he's demonstrated his supreme ignorance. He was also one of the notorious congressmen who once tried to establish a differentiation between "rape" and "legitimate rape" as it related to an antiabortion bill he proposed. The bill would have required pregnant women to receive the father's written consent before obtaining an abortion except in cases of "legitimate rape" (whatever that means).
Adding insult to injury, the Missouri state legislature passed Senate Bill 43, a law that would make it harder to sue for discrimination. It would force citizens to explicitly prove that bias lead to a dismissal rather than just contributing to it. The fate of the bill now depends on Republican Governor Eric Greitens.
39 Powerful Quotes That Will Change the Way You Live and Think
Words have power - and these inspiring quotes are guaranteed to challenge the way you think and perhaps even change the way you live.
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.
How Do You Get Through the Holidays After Losing a Loved One?
The Winter holidays have always been my favorite time of the year. You know those obnoxious people who put a Christmas tree up before December? That was me. I binge-watched the Hallmark channel, played Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" on repeat, and drank enough eggnog to fill a swimming pool (bourbon included, of course). By the time New Year's rolled around, my credit card was maxed out and I could barely button my jeans. I couldn't make sense of why anyone wouldn't love the song "Santa Baby" and had a disdain for people with a "Scrooge-y" mentality.
Even though I had sympathy for those in need, I lacked empathy for the average Joe or anyone who put a damper on my Christmas spirit. I assumed their holiday depression could be remedied with a delicious gingerbread cocktail or some warm apple pie. It wasn't until I was pushed into my own worst nightmare that I realized what a fool I'd been.
My "Baby's First Christmas" ornament would be replaced with an "In Memoriam" one.
I became a widow on June 17 of 2014. Three days before my husband died, we had a child together. Bringing my son into this world was nothing short of a miracle, but my joy was turned inside out when I lost Justin. It would be a short six months until December, and I knew it would be a catastrophe. My "Baby's First Christmas" ornament would be replaced with an "In Memoriam" one. I would not just mourn my husband; I would also mourn my baby's first Christmas.
Weeks after Justin's death, I started seeing a counselor. He was helping me through the different stages of grief when out of nowhere he broached the subject of the holidays. "Don't you dare," I said in anger. It wasn't even October and he was already talking about Christmas? Tears filled my eyes when he informed me that I needed to start facing this now. I protested, telling him of my plans to bypass the holiday season. "It won't be something you can escape," he said. When October rolled around, we made plans to have our weekly session. But this time it would be at a Sam's Club. I was clueless as to why. Upon entering the store, I noticed a Christmas lights display. "Follow me," my counselor said. We walked a few feet and stopped at the beginning of an aisle: the Christmas aisle. I couldn't believe my eyes. It was October, yet the insane amount of Christmas decorations made it look like December. As we made our way through the red and green garland, I sobbed while remembering all of my happy holiday memories with Justin. That was the moment I realized I could run, but I could not hide.
My family and I came up with a plan for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. We would remove ourselves from any familiar surroundings, as we knew they would only torment us. I told every friend, foe, and family member of our plans and made it clear that I would not be accepting any gifts or attending anything resembling a turkey dinner. We flew to Newport Beach, CA, on Thanksgiving day. I was refreshed to spend 10 days with my childhood friend Kimmy. It was the first time I could breathe in five months. I'd been surrounded by death for so long, and I finally felt a little free. I ran laps around the cliffs of Corona del Mar while blasting my iPod. I told myself not to stop. I could feel my heart pounding harder the faster I went. When I finally slowed down to catch my breath, I noticed the magnificent view of the cliffs and the beach down below. I felt at peace, and I never wanted to leave.
By the time we returned to Florida, the Christmas holiday was in full swing. Our neighborhood was oversaturated with white lights, wreaths, and blowup Santas. That calm and peaceful place I found on the cliff that day was slipping away. Having always been on the other side of Christmas, i.e. the joyous side, I never realized just how much society throws it in your face. Why had I wasted so much time watching the Hallmark channel when even the SyFy channel played Christmas programs? Did every single restaurant have to shove a gingerbread martini down my throat? And since when did grocery stores start playing holiday music? I couldn't even shop for milk without hearing my once-beloved "Santa Baby." It was everywhere! Serves me right, I suppose. I took each day as it came, and when Christmas Eve finally arrived, we drove to Atlanta, GA.
On Christmas Day there wasn't much to do; most places were closed. My mom discovered the Georgia Aquarium was open, and it seemed like the perfect place to spend our antiholiday. As we walked around with hundreds of strangers, it occurred to me that I had now become that person I'd always loathed, and I felt ashamed. Ashamed of not only the person I used to be, but also the one I'd become. I gazed into the bright blue fish tank and noticed a stingray swimming in my direction. My 6-month-old son pointed at the beautiful creature, and he started giggling. Tears streamed down my face as I smiled and made a promise never to be so selfish again. In that moment, I realized that a big part of me still wanted to buy my son his first Christmas ornament. I found a beautiful silver one in the shape of a baby rattle. It opened up, and on the inside was a place for a photo. I had inscribed: "To my gorgeous son, you are my strength." It still sits next to his daddy's things in a box.
This year will be my fourth Christmas without Justin. I still dread this time of year, and I suppose Christmas will never be the same. But I know that it can and will be good again. I have my son to thank for that.
Queen Letizia Is the Royal With the Best Accessories We've Ever Seen
Queen Letizia knows how to rock accessories better than any other royal, including Kate Middleton. Did we just say that? Yes, we did and we are sticking by our statement.
The Spanish royal knows when it's time to put on the perfect, dangly earrings to pull her look together or rock the most sparkly tiara with a ball gown that will make you faint. We love sitting at the edge of our seats, holding our breath, just waiting to see how Letizia will make her outfit complete by adding the perfect accessory. Here are her best.
20 Ways to Feel Happy (Almost) Instantly
Being happy may just be the single most important thing you can do for your health, making it just as necessary as diet and physical activity. If you aren't feeling like yourself lately, not to worry. Knowing that times are stressful and the unexpected often occurs, here are ways to help you get back to happiness almost instantly.
- Play a game (not on your phone): Get your family together, invite some friends over, and have a game night. Not only will you be surrounded by good company, but friendly competition usually guarantees a good time and a good laugh.
- Smile: When in doubt, smile! Not only is it contagious, but smiling also helps relieve stress, boost your mood, and release endorphins.
- Go for a walk: If something isn't going well at work or home, step outside and take a walk. It doesn't have to be long, but a quick stroll will help you get fresh air and clear your mind.
- Call a friend: Don't text; dial! Calling a close friend is a great way to talk over your worries and get advice from someone you trust.
- Try something new: Stop your rut by switching things up. Try a new gym class or restaurant, or take a new route to work in the morning.
- Unplug: Calm your mind by turning off your tech and escaping social media for a minute or two.
- Sing (out loud!): We give you permission to sing in the shower, car, anywhere. We promise you'll feel better - with or without a record deal.
- Volunteer: Nothing beats the feeling of helping others. Make a difference and meet a few friends in the process by checking out VolunteerMatch.
- Make a gratitude list: It's often easy to focus on the negative or those things you don't have. Quickly boost your mood by jotting down the things you are grateful for, both big and small.
- Eat up: Start cooking those fava beans; they make you happy! Since this bean contains high concentrations of an amino acid known as L-dopa (dopamine), it will boost your mood and decrease depression.
- Practice yoga: Yoga has many health benefits - see for yourself by watching this 10-minute yoga series for happiness or finding a studio to begin your own practice.
- Take time off: Maybe you just need a break. Rather than planning a vacation, take the time to adventure around your local neighborhood. Visiting new spots may be just what you need to reset and appreciate what's around you.
- Take charge: Go for it! Instead of getting bogged down by the big picture, take a small step in the right direction, now. Just knowing that you're heading in the direction of your dreams will make you happy.
- Have fun in the kitchen: Even if you're not a cook, take your mind off things by exploring new ingredients or trying a new recipe. If you don't know where to start, browse our healthy recipes.
- Meditate: Meditation is a great way to unwind and strengthen the relationship between your mind and body. It's free, too! And it comes with so many benefits.
- Give a compliment: Kick-start a smile with another person and a few genuine words.
- Declutter: For a clean slate, get organized. Getting rid of the clutter and rearranging your space will make it feel new. It is also a great starting point to move forward with future projects.
- Stay in the moment: Rather than trying to micromanage the future or worrying about the past, live in the moment and just be.
- Rest up: If you're having a hard time getting your mind off things, reset with a power nap. A short break will give your mind and body a rest and will help you approach things differently when you wake.
- Know it's going to be OK: Just remember, it's always going to be OK.
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.
What You Need to Know About Adding Muscle to Your Frame
It seems that getting stronger is on almost everyone's list this. But just wanting it won't make it happen. Just going to the gym and lifting weights without a plan won't necessarily make you stronger either. There are many nuances you'll need to consider before even getting to the gym. Here are some tried-and-true methods to get you stronger much faster than you ever thought possible!
According to Micah LaCerte, CPT and owner of Hitch Fit, "The only way to get stronger is continuing to add weight to the movements you are doing in the gym."
But if lifting heavy things alone were the solution, we'd all have lean and toned bodies. The secret is in how you approach your weight-training efforts. According to trainer Brian Pankau, CPT, you should focus on basic moves and approaches. That means doing simple moves like squats, lunges, chest presses, arm curls, rows, and the like while remembering to "add more weight when the final set for a specific exercise is completed too easily." The focus should be on hitting every major muscle group in your body with this progressive approach.
Now that you know what moves to do and how to increase weight, you need to know about reps and sets. Sure, you could just lift and lift until you've exhausted your body, but weightlifting has a simpler and more scientific approach. Your best bet is to focus on doing a few sets of each exercise for about 10 to 12 repetitions, or reps, each. That means you would do each exercise about 30 to 36 times each, but with a 30-to-60-second pause between every set of 10 to 12 reps. This allows your muscles to rest in between sets, so you can get the most out of them every time you lift.
How do you start? Glad you asked! According to Pankau: "Beginners should always stick to lighter loads while working on proper form and technique for exercises. This develops better training habits in the earlier stages and also increases joint range of motion properly to prevent injuries."
But that isn't everything. In fact, LaCerte told us that getting stronger really comes down to two essential factors: proper nutrition in conjunction with planned, progressive weightlifting.
The nutrition part may sound simple, but LaCerte believes that "you need to have a lot of focus on it to stay on track - when you're building strength and muscle, you need more calories than when you're trying to cut weight." While you may think that the weightlifting aspect is the more complex part of the equation, the truth is that it really comes down to the basic principle of "lifting heavier to get strong, which builds muscle," according to LaCerte.
4 Surprising Changes I Experienced When I Gave Up Coffee For a Week
I recently fell off the fitness wagon - hard. I honestly couldn't tell you what the catalyst was for my downfall from fairly healthy human into full-blown sloth, but I just couldn't talk myself into working out or caring much about what went into my body anymore. Instead of taking cycling classes several mornings a week and enjoying the occasional dance class, I started thinking of the walk between the fridge and my couch as an acceptable form of cardio and let buckets of coffee replace exercise as my morning jolt.
Sure, this behavior was a blast for a week or two, but before I knew it I was six weeks deep into the sedentary blob lifestyle and feeling . . . not great. It was time to face the facts: I was in a rut. Also, my pants didn't fit.
Inspired by my coworkers' seriously impressive wellness experiments, I decided that undertaking one (small) healthy experiment of my own probably wouldn't kill me, and it might even be the nudge I needed to get my general health game back on track. So in the name of zipping up my jeans and giving my couch a night off sometime in the near future, I volunteered myself for a low-key wellness project that seemed like it could get me into a healthier frame of mind again: quitting caffeine cold turkey for a week.
I should probably apologize now to anyone who interacted with me during those first two dark, caffeine-free days (withdrawal headaches are not a joke, people), but by day three, I started to notice some differences in my mindset and body that made it worthwhile. So will I be cutting out caffeine forever? Absolutely not. Did I have a small cup of coffee this morning to celebrate finishing this little project? You bet. But moving forward, I'll think of caffeine as a treat instead of a necessary component for survival in my food pyramid. And I'll keep in mind that sometimes all you need to snap out of a rut is a tiny reminder that you're capable of getting yourself back on the fitness wagon every time you fall off.
Below, I've spelled out four benefits I noticed from my caffeine-free week, from a change in my diet to a shift in my mental state. Dare you to try it next!
1. Breakfast Made a Comeback
I always thought of myself as someone who ate breakfast religiously. That's because prior to my workout slump, I had been. The only way I survived all those morning cycling classes without passing out and/or wanting to die was by fueling up beforehand. But when I was forced to skip my morning coffee, it hit me that my breakfast routine had apparently gone out the door along with my workouts. So instead of starting my day by guzzling a vat of caffeine and calling it a meal, I got back into the habit of eating a piece of fruit and toast or whipping up some oatmeal in the mornings. Another bonus from replacing morning caffeine with food: I felt like I made some better food choices at lunchtime because I wasn't completely starving by midday, too.
2. I Was Noticeably Calmer
Like many people, I've found that my anxious tendencies have definitely gotten worse with age. And even though I've known for a while that caffeine probably wasn't helping in that department, I had no idea just how much it exacerbated my symptoms until I went without it. After the first two days, I found that I fell asleep quickly (something that really isn't easy for me) and was generally less on edge throughout my day, even if everything didn't go as planned. Seriously, this perk alone made the experiment worthwhile for me!
3. I Was Way Less Bloated
Most of my beloved caffeinated drinks also have sugar in them (or artificial sweetener) which - fun fact! - causes bloat. Boo. Swapping out my regular rotation of Diet Coke, Diet Snapple, and coffee with sweetener in favor of plain seltzers and warm water with lemon made my usual case of afternoon bloat disappear almost completely. Do I actually like plain seltzer and warm water with lemon as much as Diet Coke, Diet Snapple, and coffee with sweetener? No, I'm not a monster. But sitting all day at your desk feeling uncomfortably puffy is the actual worst, and zipping up your pants without having to lay down is pretty awesome. So, there you have it.
4. My Sugar Cravings Went Away
Aside from easing bloat, the reduction of sugary-tasting drinks in my diet actually reduced my cravings for sugary foods, too. Apparently even drinking or eating artificial sweeteners (the ones I most often use) can dial up your cravings for sugary treats across the board. By the end of my caffeine-free week, I wasn't craving something sweet after eating something savory anymore, and I actually caught myself describing a snack as "too sweet," which has definitely never happened before.
69 F*cking Fantastic Songs From Netflix's She's Gotta Have It
In She's Gotta Have It, the new Netflix series inspired by Spike Lee's 1986 film of the same name, the music featured throughout the show is equally as complex, unpredictable, and consequential as the show's main characters. Set in modern-day Brooklyn, the show follows sexually liberated millennial Nola Darling as she balances romantic relationships with three different men while trying to make a name for herself as an artist, but it's through music, which ranges from jazz standards to reggaeton and neo-soul, that Nola is able to authentically connect with her lovers, her best friends, her identity, and the viewer.
Spike Lee has always understood the role of music in adding dimension to characters and storylines. His musician father, Bill Lee, composed the original soundtrack for the 1986 version of She's Gotta Have It, and Spike personally curated the songs for each of the 10 episodes to accompany the show's score by legendary composer Bruce Hornsby.
While She's Gotta Have It is firmly planted in 2017, the soundtrack, with a few exceptions, is a throwback to hip-hop, soul, and R&B from the '70s through the early '00s. Nostalgia-inducing classic tracks from acts like Maxwell, Stevie Wonder, and Jill Scott are featured so prominently in the show that album covers are often used as transition slides between scenes, and new music by Anthony Ramos, who stars in the series as one of Nola's lovers, Mars Blackmon, can be heard throughout the show.
Check out the music from the first season of She's Gotta Have It below.
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