Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 1 décembre 2017
Bésame's New Snow White Line Has Finally Arrived
The holidays just got even more magical thanks to Bésame Cosmetics. The vintage-inspired makeup brand teamed up with Disney to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' release with the launch of the Disney Snow White - The 1937 Collection.
The massive collection includes lipsticks, eye shadow palettes, and blushes inspired by the original colors used in the film. Bésame founder Gabriela Hernandez based the hues on the Disney Studio Ink and colors created for the film, instead of the more vivid hues we see in remastered editions of the animated film.
Disney fans will go gaga for the attention to detail that Bésame included in the collection. The standout product in the collection is The 1937 Storybook Palette ($68), which was previously available for presale at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, CA. The beautifully designed palette looks like a storybook and includes a cream and gold slip cover and green satin bookmark. When you remove the slip cover and open the palette, you unveil a large mirror and an illustration of the princess herself.
If that wasn't cute enough, the next page has written directions on how to achieve the princess's look and a peek behind the scenes of the palette's production. As you flip to the next page, a table of contents is revealed. This tells you exactly which colors in the palette were used on Snow White in the film and where the shades are seen in the movie.
The shadows themselves are beautifully muted hues, and the collection includes enough neutrals to utilize the palette every day. There are 20 shades total, making this palette well worth the price tag. Keep reading to see all the products in the massive collection, and head to Bésame's website to shop the makeup and get the perfect gift for the Disney fan in your life.
14 Discontinued Urban Decay Products We Want the Brand to Bring Back
A friend of mine once referred to me as a "beauty historian," and this was an incredibly apt description. I have been hoarding cosmetics since my early teen years and have kept the majority of my collection in pristine condition, packaging included. In fact, there are some products that I treasure so much that I can't even bring myself to use them.
Urban Decay is possibly my favorite beauty brand of all time, and I have sung its praises in countless essays for POPSUGAR. I proudly locked down the AOL Instant Messenger user name of "urbandecayjunkie" in middle school, and from that point onward, my obsession spiraled out of control. I've tracked down dozens of discontinued items on eBay and spent carefully saved money on the company's new launches over the years. Now that I'm a beauty editor, I get to know about Urban Decay's upcoming products ahead of time, so I'm basically living out my teenage fantasies.
In a humble ode to the brand, I pulled some of my favorite products from my stash in hopes that other Urban Decay junkies would reminisce along with me. Unfortunately, I couldn't find my beloved Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner in Pyrotechnics (an iridescent sparklefest of a liquid liner) or Pocket Rocket gloss in Timothy (featuring a graham-cracker-like scent in the tube and a lenticular print of an undressed preppie hottie on the outside). There are definitely some oldies-but-goodies in here, though: all of these products are from around 2004 or earlier. Read on and take a trip down memory lane!
Arizona Green Tea-Inspired Makeup Is a Thing, and We Are Thirsting For It
Before 7-Eleven sold makeup, it was our go-to for cheap culinary delights such as taquitos, Slim Jims, and - perhaps most ubiquitously - Arizona Iced Tea. The 99 cent beverage - America's favorite, if you believe Arizona's website - is beloved far and wide for its taste and thriftiness. So beloved, in fact, that one makeup enthusiast just dedicated an eye shadow look to the tea. And you know what? We're actually really into it. You could say that we're thirsting for such a style (sorry, had to).
Reddit user clore0x took to the site to show off her shadow, a mint-and-crimson look that resembles the brand's iconic cherry blossom packaging. You'd probably never guess that such a sophisticated look would be inspired by a soft drink.
My Arizona green tea addiction is just about as bad as my makeup addiction, here are the results. from MakeupAddiction
But it is, and we are applauding clore0x's dedication to living her most hydrated life. Now if you'll excuse us, we have to hit up our local 7-Eleven for some ice-cold lemon refreshment.
7 Foods to Absolutely Avoid If You Want Clear, Glowing Skin
Two weeks ago, I went to Whole Foods and stocked up on coconut milk, almond butter, frozen veggies, fresh berries, organic meats, wild salmon, and quinoa. My boyfriend could interpret what this meant: Lauren is back on another food detox.
It started last Summer when I completed Dr. Frank Lipman's two-week Be Well Cleanse. This is a 14-day program in which you eliminate the food groups that most people are sensitive to, including gluten, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, nightshade vegetables, and eggs, among other things, replacing them with a plant-based diet that includes select organic lean meats and fish. You also drink three shakes a day incorporating Dr. Lipman's special blend of powders and take supplements. I learned a ton about myself, my habits, and my skin.
Though I have yet to return to the official cleanse, I do repeat some of the guidelines from it when I feel off-balance, seem bloated, or have less-than-desirable skin (blochy, broken out, puffy under-eyes). Typically, I try to eliminate gluten, dairy, and sugar for about a week or two until I feel and look better. Within three days of sticking to this diet plan, my skin brightens, I fall asleep easier and earlier, and my jeans fit better. It's not about dieting or losing weight; it's about creating harmony within my body. A healthy gut undeniably yields more gorgeous skin.
According to Dr. Lipman, "Your skin is your largest organ and a window into what's going on inside your body. Poor food choices that cause inflammation can lead to numerous skin issues."
If a cleanse is a bit dramatic for you, no worries. You can still reap some of the benefits by making these seven food swaps. Dr. Lipman outlined which foods to avoid, why they are toxic for your skin, and what to replace them with.
15 Beauty Gifts For Your Boss That Just Might Land You a Promotion
There's no doubt about it - your boss is someone you really want to impress. That's the case for 9-to-5 tasks, networking and office camaraderie, and yes, even gift giving. If your boss is a beauty fanatic, any of the following gifts will help ensure you end up on the nice list this year!
Dark Circles Don't Stand a Chance With These Concealers Under $10
Ladies, it's time to fess up: a good concealer is the cornerstone of your makeup regimen. It visibly reduces blemishes, masks under-eye circles, and generally helps your complexion look its best. But while these miracle workers are super helpful, we don't always want to break the bank on them. Ahead, we've rounded up 10 rock-star concealers that cost $10 or less.
Guardians of the Galaxy 2, Hitch, and 50 Other New Titles Coming to Netflix in December
Netflix is pulling out all the stops for December. Although the streaming giant is getting rid of one of our favorite Disney movies, they're also adding a ton of fresh titles that we can't wait to watch. On top of Netflix originals like season two of The Crown and the premiere of the ridiculously creepy Dark, there are also exciting movies like 8 Mile, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and more. Check out the full list of movies and TV shows ahead!
Pickle Candy Canes Are a Real Thing - and We Don't Know Whether to Be Giddy or Gag
It's hard to know whether it's the salt or the vinegar in pickles that makes them such a popular food - especially during pregnancy - but one candy company is betting that the love of pickles extends all the way to holiday sweet treats. That's right, it's created pickle-flavored candy canes! Depending on whether you love or hate pickles, we're guessing you're having a big reaction right now. The pickle candy canes are available in packs of six for $9 on Amazon, where they promise to provide the tangy kick of dill. And if you're looking for something a bit more savory, check out the gravy and rotisserie chicken candy cane options instead; yes, seriously!
A Trainer Gets Brutally Honest About Why You Aren't Seeing Results
I have some tough love for you today. It's about your workouts. You go to the gym several times a week, sometimes twice in one day, and yet you aren't as fit as you should be.
As a certified group exercise trainer and indoor cycling instructor, I've taught hundreds of classes. Based on what I see, I think a lot of you are shortchanging yourself. Taking a step back and getting honest about your approach will help you work out smarter, and maybe even harder.
1. You Aren't Paying Attention
Some instructors are better than others, but let's assume you aren't wasting your time with bad trainers. When you go to a class, are you listening to what you are being asked to do? Do you pay attention to alignment cues in yoga? Do you check your form in weight training?
Listen to what the people in spandex wearing microphones are saying. They are certified experts who take continuing education classes and spend hours creating quality workouts. They have taken on the burden of exercise selection, interval timing, choreography, and sequencing.
Sometimes the key to success is recognizing that you can't get there on your own. You wouldn't ask an accountant to do your taxes and then scribble all over the return as she was filling it out would you? Trust your instructors. They want to get you there as badly as you do.
2. You Aren't Working Hard Enough
Here's a dose of tough love: instructors know how hard you are working, and that you aren't always tapping your potential.
Example: you are in an indoor cycling class and your instructor asks you to add resistance. Everyone adds gear, except for you because you don't want it to be "too hard." When the music picks up and the entire class is straining to get up that hill, there you are, pedaling like a demon, barely breaking a sweat.
Another example: you are in a weight-training situation and even though you've been doing the same moves for months, you're still using the same weights. You wonder why you aren't getting stronger. Guess what? You aren't challenging your muscles when you always choose the same weights. Pick up something heavier. What's the worst thing that can happen? It's too heavy and you have to switch to lighter weights to finish? Do that every time if you want to see results.
Final example: you are in a HIIT class. There are people that are going to go half-speed the entire time. And there are people that are going to stop working halfway through the interval. You know how I know? Because I CAN SEE THEM! Don't be self-conscious; no one is staring at you while you work out. But the instructor is scanning the room for safety reasons and can see how hard you're working. I promise that you'll see better results when you put in the effort.
3. You Aren't Competing With Yourself
Stop comparing yourself to the other people in class. Who knows what they had for breakfast? How many workouts a week they do when you don't see them? It's not about them. It's about you and what you can achieve. Whenever I teach class, I want my students thinking, "Today I am going to do more than I did last time. I am going to add more gear. I am going to hold my sprint longer. I am going to pick up the eight-pound dumbbell instead of the five."
You go to your classes to improve yourself. You have special strengths and abilities. You may struggle at push-ups but you can plank for two minutes. You may have spaghetti arms but can crush squats all day long. Be you. Don't worry about anyone else. Stay on your own mat, mentally and physically. Your fitness will blossom.
4. You Don't Accept What You Can't Change
You have to set reasonable expectations. You can't do 1,000 burpees in 10 minutes and you will never change the biology of your body. If you're bottom heavy, you will likely always trend that way when gaining weight. If all the women in your family get saggy underarms by the time they are 40, you probably will too. However, you can tone and shape that bottom, heavy or not. You can strengthen and tighten your triceps to help that underarm sag. But remember: there is no amount of exercise that will completely transform you into someone else - and you shouldn't want it to. You were made to be you, unique and special. You can be the best you possible, and that should be your goal. Once you accept that, you can stop fighting your body and start working with it to achieve your goals.
5. You Reward Workouts With Food
We all do it. Now that I've worked out, I can go have that bin of pasta I've been craving. I can hit the drive-through for that burger and fries "because I've earned it." You haven't though. You've earned the right to refuel your body. You've worked so hard to achieve a higher level of fitness, to lose weight, to feel good about yourself. And yet you sabotage it, sometimes daily, by rewarding your workouts with food.
It's time we stepped back from food. Instead of it becoming a reward system, it should be a means to an end. The reward for the work is not a consumable. It's an intangible. It comes from within us. It's called pride. Satisfaction. Self-confidence. You can't get those things from a drive-through. If you want the burger, eat it. But don't confuse yourself about why you are having it. You haven't "earned" it. You've allowed it. And that's OK, once in a while. The next time you see that neon sign calling to you, though, think about where you are really headed, physically, and whether that detour is worth it on your path to well-being. If not, keep driving.
Best of luck on your path to greater health and wellness. Remember, you can start each day fresh. Take each class like it's your last. And be kind to yourself: you've only got the one body, so help it go the distance.
SNL Alum Says Working With "Moron" Host Donald Trump Was "Not Fun"
Way back when Donald Trump was a presidential hopeful in 2015, he hosted Saturday Night Live - exactly one year before Election Day. Taran Killam, who once impersonated Trump and later joined him on stage when he hosted, was stunningly candid about the now president in a recent interview with Brooklyn magazine.
Killam responded to a host of questions about his post-SNL career and joining the cast of Hamilton right after Mike Pence famously attended the show (and heard a compassionate message from the cast). President Trump was especially incensed by the incident, to which Killam replied with the utmost honesty. "Yeah, well the president is a moron," Killam told the magazine.
Later in the interview, Killam elaborated on what it was like to work with Trump on the show, and you might not be surprised by how difficult he said it was. "It was not fun, and most of the cast and writers were not excited to have him there," Killam said. "I didn't get the feeling that he was excited to be there, and it felt like a move for ratings from both sides."
Perhaps most unsurprising of all, Killam revealed how the president . . . struggled to read his lines. "What you see is what you get with him, really. I mean, there was no big reveal," Killam added. "He struggled to read at the table read, which did not give many of us great confidence. Didn't get the jokes, really. He's just a man who seems to be powered by bluster."
We're pretty sure Trump would write off Killam's account of his time on the show as "fake news."
This Is What Huda Beauty's Faux Filter Foundation Looks Like on Every Skintone
After two years of testing, color-matching, and teases, Huda Kattan has finally released her Faux Filter Foundation. It's not hyperbole to say that the launch was met with smashing success - just take a look at Sephora shelves, where nine of Faux Filter's 30 foundations sold out in less than a week.
Since inclusivity was a big goal of Huda's from the get-go, the #FauxFilter hashtag on Instagram is quickly becoming a beautifully diverse place where makeup enthusiasts go to share their shades, tips, and feelings about the matte, full-coverage (and we mean FULL) formula.
Want in on this feel-good celebration of flawless skin? Read on to see every single shade of Huda Beauty's Faux Filter Foundation ($40) - and then send Sephora prayer hands in hopes that the store restocks the sold-out hues.
They're Here! 13 Brand-New, Editor-Approved Nail Polishes For Fall
Fall is such a fun time for a fresh manicure, and big cosmetics brands have just released their brand-new Autumn hues! We're giving you a look at the hottest lacquers of the season with colors that range from deep, vampy burgundy to sparkly rose gold. And since these picks are just hitting shelves, you'll have attention-getting nails before anybody else. Take a look at these gorgeous shades from OPI, China Glaze, Deborah Lippmann, Butter London, Orly, Sall Hansen, JINsoon, and Tom Ford. Your bank account is about to get a tad emptier. With this many options, you might need to get a mani once a week!
22 Chic Autumn Nail Colors You'll Want to Buy ASAP
Fall not only brings us cooler weather and pumpkin spice everything, it also treats us to new Autumn nail polish collections. With ranges of burnt orange, olive greens, and plums to choose from, we're spoiled with choices from the likes of Essie and OPI. Ahead, find a few of our favorite old and new colors to get your Autumn 2017 nail collection started.
This Is What Marriage Really Looks Like For 2 Parents Who Get No Sleep
Lauren and Eric are parents to three adorable children, and like so many mothers and fathers, they're freaking exhausted. These two are currently in their peak no-sleep years, with Nora, 5, Andi, 3, and Deacon, 6 months, but they are championing through the crying nights and grumpiness, because that's what their relationship is right now, and that's what makes it so special. Lauren, creator of the From Blacktop to Dirt Road blog, recently took to Facebook to vent about these sleepless years.
"These are the years that we don't sleep," she opened the powerful post with. "The years that we hear cries in the night and give cuddles in the darkness. The years that we don't sleep in the same bed, but brush hands in the hallway as we pass one another by. The years that are short, but that nights that are so long. The years that we change sheets in the middle of the night and sleep with buckets next to the bed."
Lauren continued to explain how she and her husband "celebrate" the time the kids spend at Grandma's house and praise each other when taking turns on late-night duty, but she's thankful she has Eric by her side. These long nights may feel miserably endless now, but they are getting through it together, like the superhero parents they are.
"The years that we feed babies and change diapers and burp babies and change more diapers and feed babies again," she wrote. "The years that we wake up weary, and maybe a little snarky, and have to say, 'I'm sorry,' as we rub our tired eyes, and choose to forgive the grumpiness once again. The years that we cling to one another in the early morning hours, looking into each others tired eyes, knowing that there is no one else either of us would want to be this exhausted with."
Sure, Lauren and Eric may remember the days of sleeping in, but what happens when they wake up from these nights of nowhere near eight hours of sleep makes it all worth it: "The years that we sit on the couch with our coffees in the morning, and stare at the beautiful little people we created playing on the floor who make us so tired and wonder how they can wake up with so much energy." (Seriously, we'll never understand how children to wake up with so much energy!)
For parents who are currently experiencing the same struggles as Lauren and Eric, know that it will pass, but until then, enjoy it and smile, because that's what parenting is all about.
9 Ikea Kitchen Hacks That Change Everything
Kitchens are superfunctional spaces, and it can be difficult to balance function and style. But kitchens are also one of the best places in your home for you to get creative, and nothing lets you express your creativity while maintaining functionality like some good Ikea hacks. Try a simple DIY involving a fresh coat of paint, or repurpose an Ikea staple into something new and gorgeous. Whatever you do, these Ikea hacks for the kitchen are perfect for making a statement.
Square Footage Isn't Everything - Just Ask These Celebs With Small Homes
Based on many of the celebrity homes that we've toured over the years, it seems that bigger means better in Hollywood. However, a few famous faces aren't buying into the idea that size is everything, and their small abodes prove it. Compared to most of their A-list peers, these stars live in veritable "tiny homes." Gain some small-space living inspiration from these notable names and you might start feeling like a celebrity . . . minus the extreme excess.
Meghan Markle's Best Hair Moments Prove She's Always Been a Royal in Waiting
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's engagement has us not only swooning over their adorable announcement but also sending our beauty-obsessed brains into overdrive about what her wedding hair will look like. We may have to wait until 2018 to find out, but we can still look back at her best hair moments so far for a few hints. She's the queen of relaxed, chic waves, and you'll probably want to re-create her go-to style immediately.
Ahead, see Megan's best mane moments that prove she was born to be a royal, with hair just as fabulous as Kate's!
All the Fall Superfoods You Need to Stock Up on Now
When you think of delicious, cozy Autumn flavors, your mind might go to maple brussels sprouts or roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon . . . maybe even apple pie! Did you know that all of these ingredients have superfood qualities? From heart-healthy apples to blood-sugar-regulating cinnamon to fiber-packed root veggies, your favorite flavors are going to bring you some seriously awesome health benefits. Ahead are 15 of our favorite superfoods for Fall, and we think you'll be pretty pleased with this list. Get ready for a solid grocery shopping session!
So These Parents Had the Chillest Reaction to Their Kids Drawing All Over the Wall
Your kids are going to do things they shouldn't. It helps if you married someone with a sense of humour. http://pic.twitter.com/VVTstejBJO
- Eric Massicotte (@DrMassicotte) November 14, 2017
When kids do something completely cringe-worthy, most parents' initial reaction is to completely freak, but Eric and Kim Massicotte's response to their 6-year-old son, Ryan, drawing a house on the wall is all too hilarious - and frankly deserves a standing ovation and bonus points for creativity. The dad posted a hysterical photo to Twitter showing his son's handiwork with the caption: "Your kids are going to do things they shouldn't. It helps if you married someone with a sense of humour."
So how did this brilliant parenting hack come to fruition? It all started when Ryan decided to fulfill his duty as the oldest kid by showing his little brother Peter exactly how to draw the perfect house . . . on the wall. Eric discovered just what his wife Kim to commemorate their son's artistic expression after getting home from work one night, and you could say it's certainly museum-worthy. Right next to Ryan's drawing was a sign that read: "Interrupted House, 2017. Marker on latex paint. Gifted to his parents, by surprise. Nov 13th." And to top it all off, Kim went as far as to frame it. Nice touch.
So far, the tweet has amassed 228,000 favorites and 113,000 "likes" with no signs of slowing down. And as expected, other parents are bowing down to the couple's creativity:
help http://pic.twitter.com/drKTJh3fga
- ليلى 🍠 (@laylainlalaland) November 15, 2017
http://pic.twitter.com/CrkvRxZfDZ
- Zane The Keymaster (@SparksZane) November 15, 2017
In the future when he buys a house, you should definitely return the favor.
- a real dinosaur (@SparkyROAR) November 15, 2017
http://pic.twitter.com/JSKqW4I28n
- Tyler (@ExPostHuman) November 16, 2017
Full disclosure: we totally wish we thought of doing this first.
How I Kicked My 20-Year-Long Nail-Biting Habit For Good
"I feel sorry for your fingers." Those were the six words that came out of the woman's mouth when she took my hands to try and bless them with a manicure for my wedding. Can I get an ouch?
As painful as that sentence was to take in - especially so close to my big day - truth be told, it was just what I needed to hear to recognize how out of control my nail-biting habit had become. See, I've been a nail-biter for 20-some long years. Looking back, I can't recall how this grotesque, compulsive habit even started, but it's one that has followed me well into adulthood.
It's embarrassing, to say the least - and honestly, I don't think many people realized how much the constant urge to pick, pull, or bite at my fingernails consumed me. But really, that was my goal, because every time I'd shred my cuticles to the point where they'd be dripping with blood - gross, I know - I'd hide each wounded finger so no one would notice. Because what sane person nips at their nail (and the skin around it) until red liquid oozes out, right? To make matters worse, I would feel strangely satisfied each time this happened.
If you are also a chronic nail-biter, I'm hoping you can relate. (By hoping, what I really mean is: please tell me you've experienced similar scenarios so I don't feel too crazy.) And if by chance you are nodding your head in agreement, please know that I, too, feel your pain. What's more? I've got good news for you.
After years of searching high and low for an effective nail-biting solution - and literally trying every single program under the sun - I finally found a method that actually worked. Although it was one of the hardest challenges I've endured, I'm confident that if I can nip this nasty habit in the bud, anyone can.
So if you're ready to quit biting your nails once and for all - and, let's be real, who isn't? - your guide to beautiful hands awaits ahead!
Yes, Victoria's Secret Angels Get Pimples - and This Is How They Deal!
You know the bride who gets the massive zit before her wedding because she's nervous? Well, some of the Victoria's Secret Angels walking in the 2017 Fashion Show in Shanghai are those brides - theoretically speaking. When I asked them about pimple care, I expected them to admit they consistently have clean skin. Maybe it's naive, but they look like goddesses IRL!
Instead, they authentically pointed out the blemishes on their faces and got real about acne care. Keep reading to learn what these mega models do to cover zits before their big event.
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.
21 Pretty Peony Tattoos That Will Be Blooming All Year Long
There's just something about a peony. What's not to love? They're pretty, they're luxurious, and they're a symbol of good fortune - when it comes to both money and love. They instantly make coffee tables look chic, wedding cakes crave them, and when you need to spice up a bouquet, a peony or two usually does the trick.
Peony tattoos are also pretty dang adorable, so we sorted through Instagram to bring you the best of the best! If you can't stop dreaming of peonies, check out these new ink ideas.
Hold Up - Trader Joe's Sells Chocolate Advent Calendars For Just $1!
Trader Joe's seems like an unlikely place to find an advent calendar, but turns out it's one of the best places to buy one. The store's chocolate advent calendars are back again this year, and thankfully they're sporting the same low price yet again: $1! If you already consider this a staple on your Trader Joe's holiday shopping list, please ignore this friendly PSA. But if you weren't already aware of the affordable calendar, it could be a game changer this year!
A POPSUGAR editor has already spotted this year's calendars on shelves, and it looks like there are four fun designs to choose from - TJ's updates the designs every year. According to Trader Joe's, the calendars "contain little chocolates that surpass in quality those waxy candies one finds in lesser countdown calendars. The key is a generous amount of cocoa butter, which translates into a smoother, more chocolate-y taste." If you're a chocoholic, this is clearly the best way to count down to Christmas.
There's no need to worry about ordering a cool advent calendar online when you can just add this one to your shopping cart the next time you're picking up groceries at Trader Joe's.
3 Essential DIY Cleaners That Will Make Your Kitchen Sparkle
Say goodbye to harsh cleaning agents and hello to all-natural cleaning sprays that are just as effective (if not better) at eliminating dirt and grime. This DIY tutorial will show you how simple it is to whip up your own kitchen cleaners using some simple household products.
- Distilled vinegar: to help cut through grease, eliminate stains, and has great antibacterial properties.
- Baking soda: to clean and deodorize surfaces.
- Castile soap: a vegetable- and oil-based liquid soap used as a natural cleaning agent.
- Citrus fruits: rinds of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits consist of a natural property called limonene, which helps cut through oily residue and will leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
These products are not only safe and effective but will also serve as a big money-savers for those who are on a budget. For more on how to keep your kitchen spic and span, read on for recipe details.
Citrus-Scented Vinegar
Ingredients:
Mason Jar
Lid
Vinegar
1 grapefruit
1 lemon
Directions:
Step 1: Wash and dry the fruit.
Step 2: Using a knife, gently slice off the rind of the fruit.
Step 3: Place the rinds into the jar and fill the jar with vinegar.
Step 4: Seal the jar tightly and store in a dark, cool cupboard for one to two weeks.
Step 5: When ready, pour vinegar through a strainer to filter the rinds. Vinegar is ready for use.
Step 6: To make each of the cleaners, combine the ingredients as listed below.
Microwave/Stovetop Degreaser
2/3 parts water
1/3 part vinegar
3 teaspoon baking soda
4 teaspoon of Castile soap
8-10 drops of essential oils (lavender, orange blossom, mint)
Spray bottle
Floor Cleaner
1 cup water
1 cup vinegar
4 tablespoon of Castile soap
8-10 drops of essential oils (i.e lavender, orange blossom, mint)
All-Purpose Cleaner
1 cup water
1 cup vinegar
8-10 drops of essential oils (lavender, orange blossom, mint)
Spray bottle
She's Gotta Have It Nails Why We Need More Depictions of Black Female Sexuality
Spike Lee's latest jaunt is an explosive reboot of his 1986 film She's Gotta Have It. In the sexy Netflix update, Lee really dives into the characters he created over 30 years ago in a 10-episode series that soaks in every inch of Brooklyn while telling the stories of the melanin-rich characters who live there.
Even so, truly not enough words can be said to describe the show's main character, Nola Darling, whose sexual exploits are just as timely as ever. Nola is a living embodiment of the direct opposition to any negative stereotypes ever spoken about black people and, especially, black women. She's arguably the heroine all women need and an accurate representation of the millennial woman, which is nothing short of refreshing.
She shamelessly has four lovers (aspiring rapper Mars Blackmon, played by Anthony Ramos, father and husband Jamie Overstreet, played by Lyriq Bent, model and narcissist Greer Childs, played by Cleo Anthony, and single mom Opal Gilstrap, played by Ilfenesh Hadera). Lee doesn't shy away from the fact that if she were a man juggling multiple lovers, it would make her a "player," but instead she gets labeled as promiscuous or a "freak."
Sexism is still alive and well. America's president is a self-proclaimed grabber of women's genitals and the Harvey Weinsteins and Kevin Spaceys of the world are getting called out for exerting their power to sexually harass and assault.
However, Nola is not only challenging how women are viewed when it comes to their bodies and sexuality, but she's also a living and breathing example of the lifestyle many women live that society still refuses to accept. The self-proclaimed "sex-positive polyamorous pansexual" Brooklyn artist is a single woman with agency over her own body who enjoys sex (which she has a lot of) and is unapologetically feminist.
Yet, it is 2017 and black women are not often celebrated for being sexual or even shown as multifaceted beings who are capable of so much more than a one-dimensional sexuality. Instead, black women on screen are subjects of the male gaze (Belly, Think Like a Man) or they fall prey to fetishization for being overtly sexual (Foxy Brown, Monster Ball) or they just lack of sexuality altogether (Bonnie in Big Little Lies). Usually, the roles of the sexually adventurous woman are reserved for white women when on screen, whether TV (Sex and The City, Broad City, or Girls) or film (Savages, Basic Instinct, Bad Teacher, etc.).
But if the huge success of Girls Trip this past Summer is indicative of anything, it's that black women love sex, they're tired of being possessed or objectified, and they support film and TV shows with honest portrayals of black womanhood.
In this case, not only does Nola "gotta have it," but so do other black women who expressed absolute glee at being able to see themselves on the small screen.
She's Gotta Have It is a must see. Definitely shows the perfect depiction of sexual liberation, spirituality, gentrification, double standards, art, being a black woman in society, struggling to make ends meet, and everything in between. Please please pleaseeee watch!
- coffeeshopconvos.com (@taracamille_) November 27, 2017
She's Gotta Have It on Netflix is excellent. Spike Lee came back to remind folks he was ahead of his time in the 80s. Focused on Sexual liberation and public respect for Black women before it became popular.
- TheAbstract (@AltBoosterGold) November 24, 2017
Everyone please watch "she's gotta have it" on Netflix. I feel like this bitch is me 😭 it's a great show tbh
- Art Plug 🔌 ✨ (@xEnoughSaidx) November 25, 2017
So I just started #ShesGottaHaveIt on Netflix and I love Nola so far, but I believe it's because the actress herself is stunning, and I love her art and how she lives life on her terms. Let's see how I feel as characters develop.
- Ashley D. (@MsAshleyDevonna) November 27, 2017
Nola's story isn't representative of every black woman, or every woman, period, but it's a stark contrast to the narratives that have been present in the media and cinema thus far, and for that, it's worth the binge.
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.
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.
Thanks to Lush, You Could Get All Your Christmas Shopping Done Right This Way
Lush is always a safe bet when it comes to Christmas shopping, and this year, the brand has put together its best gift sets yet. On top of some incredible bath bombs and gorgeous sparkle jars, three of everyone's favorite smells (Snow Fairy, Rose Jam, and Twilight) will also be put back on the shelves. Starting at just $18 and going all the way to $350, it has something for just about every occasion, from your office's Secret Santa to a present that your best friend will obsess over. Keep reading to discover all the goods, and get your shopping carts ready: they'll be hitting stores this October.
What You Need to Know About the "Goldwater Rule" and Trump’s Mental Health
Image Source: Getty / Joe Raedle
In the wake of President Donald Trump's widely condemned handling of Charlottesville, VA, an erratic press conference in the lobby of Trump Tower in New York, and an off-the-wall rally in Phoenix, AZ, individuals on both sides of the aisle have expressed concern about the president's well-being and mental health. And if Republican Senator Bob Corker and former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper are any indication, that concern has now escalated to a plea for action.
"I really question his ability to be - his fitness to be - in this office, and I also am beginning to wonder about his motivation for it," Clapper told CNN, adding, "I cannot make any comment about his mental health, his sanity or any of that sort of thing. All that I can comment on really is the behavior I've observed, and I find that worrisome." And the reason Clapper - or any professional, for that matter - can't talk about the president's mental health dates back to a very similar situation, which led to the so-called "Goldwater Rule" being put into place in 1973, a topic that is increasingly becoming the subject of debate across the country.
In 1964, Arizona Senator Barry Goldwater decided to throw his hat in the ring as the Republican candidate for president. His platform was a flurry of controversial ideas and issues - his vote against the Civil Rights Act of 1964 caused many to label him a racist, among other things - but things came to a head when Fact magazine published an article in which "more than 1,000 psychiatrists declared the Republican candidate unfit for the office, citing severe personality defects, including paranoia, a grandiose manner and a Godlike self-image," according to The New York Times, which also pointed out that "one doctor called him 'a dangerous lunatic'." Goldwater would subsequently go on to lose the election in a landslide but win the lawsuit that was quickly filed against the magazine.
Image Source: Getty / Keystone
Almost a decade later, the American Psychiatric Association put into place the Goldwater Rule. The 1973 statute bars psychiatrists from presenting their opinion on the mental health of an individual to the media without having conducted an in-person examination and been given permission to do so. As a result, those who know most about this issue are never the ones to speak out to the press and why the subject is often a tricky one to tackle when it comes to those in the public eye. And we have Barry Goldwater to thank for it.
Today, the 37,000 people who could actually speak to the subject of a president's fitness are unable to do so. Sure, there is a reasonable expectation of privacy and there are some things that are private and should not be given up to the general public at large. But what the end result of an effective gag order such as this leads to is rampant speculation and a very odd form of slander, as those who are less informed on the issue - or don't provide their thoughts with a caveat, like what Clapper did with CNN - are the ones who are put as talking heads on the news. Were professionals able to provide comment, it could either clear the air or definitively raise a red flag where one may be needed and effectively kill in its tracks the need for speculation and discussion.
There are cases to be made for both sides of the argument, but in 2017, it's hard not to draw parallels between Goldwater and Trump. Trump seems to be the natural heir to the late senator's penchant for outlandish statements, possess the same hatred of the media, and of course is similarly fond of litigious action. But while Goldwater's bid for president failed, Trump's was successful. As the most powerful person in the country, one might expect the level of scrutiny in this area to be higher than that of the average government official. Ultimately, that's the debate that will be taking place over the coming weeks, months, and years: have we hit the point where the Goldwater Rule should no longer apply, or does it matter now more than ever? As for now, the outcome of that debate remains to be seen.
The 2018 POPSUGAR Reading Challenge Is Here!
Find a cozy nook, pull up a plush chair, and settle in with a steaming cup of something warm - the 2018 POPSUGAR Reading Challenge is here! This year, there are 40 book prompts to broaden your reading scope and push you to actually accomplish your New Year's resolution to read more in 2018. If you're really hardcore and breeze through the main list, there are an additional 10 book prompts in the "advanced" section. We're especially excited about this year's creative new batch of prompts, which include "true crime," "a book by a female author who uses a male pseudonym," and "a book about a villain or antihero."
Before you stress about tackling all 50 books, just remember that the point of the reading challenge is to push yourself to diversify your reading (hey, we all get stuck in a genre rut!) and just have fun with it. And if you read more books in 2018 than in 2017, even better. The best part? You may even discover a new favorite book along the way!
So you've decided to take the reading challenge - what now? We'd suggest joining this Goodreads group, which is made up of more than 8,000 readers who participate in the POPSUGAR Reading Challenge every year. In addition to keeping you accountable, the group's impressively well-read and supportive members swap book ideas for the prompts and discuss their favorite (and least favorite) reads throughout the year. You'll also be able to track which books you've read and rate them on the site.
Download our printable list here (or our advanced list here), checking off the books as you go, and pin the handy graphic below for reference. Share your progress on Instagram with #popsugarreadingchallenge!
Spoiler alert: we got a little meta. So for the prompt to choose your favorite prompt from past challenges, here they are for reference: 2015, 2016, 2017.
Sheriff Keller's Hot Bod Might Be the Biggest Plot Twist on Riverdale Yet
Image Source: The CW
We all know that Riverdale is full of gorgeous eye candy, but some of the hottest stars are actually the parents. While Fred Andrews and Hiram Lodge have already been established as heartthrobs, Sheriff Keller surprised everyone on Wednesday night when he revealed what's under that uniform.
As Veronica snoops in the Keller family's basement, she is taken aback to find Kevin's dad (or should we say "daddy?") working out shirtless. Aside from being completely ripped, he also has a sexy tattoo on his arm. Seriously, even Veronica has a hard time keeping her focus. Naturally, Twitter was in its feelings about the moment. See the best reactions below.
I see you V...I see where your eyes are going (to all 8 of them) #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/zvs8AqnwCB
- RiverdaleWritersRoom (@RiverdaleWriter) November 30, 2017
Heyyyyy Sheriff Keller #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/srTI66RK5K
- RiverdaleWritersRoom (@RiverdaleWriter) November 30, 2017
SHIRTLESS SHERIF KELLER. #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/LXcoAnVdCG
- spamaccount2k17 (@hipandneat) November 30, 2017
Sheriff Keller has a nice body. #riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/bTcGKl1RPF
- Ladybuglizzie (@sagevalentine) November 30, 2017
My new sugar daddy is sheriff Keller #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/N4kWGMvK5x
- Joalta 🥀 (@Samu3lla) November 30, 2017
Me seeing Sheriff Keller's body 😍#riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/jj2Zaz9i8d
- Ki 🌈 (@Kiana_Everett13) November 30, 2017
Shirtless Sheriff Keller is the real revelation of the series #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/3G0wCryuIn
- Cristal Crowley (@cristal_crowley) November 30, 2017
Sheriff Keller swole asf under that uniform #Riverdale http://pic.twitter.com/ijO6Mfgb1h
- Queen A. (@TrillAsAlexis) November 30, 2017
and just like that, Sheriff Keller jumps to the top of the #Riverdale Hot Dads List http://pic.twitter.com/KwRkQuhBhS
- Kerin 💖s Christmas & Bucky Barnes (@KerinCunningham) November 30, 2017
Sheriff Keller is a DILF and that's the plot twist of the season. #Riverdale
- Dev 💋💄 (@bopokween) November 30, 2017
sheriff keller looks like a man who would trEAT MY RIGHT #riverdale
- amanda🎄 (@amandaclep) November 30, 2017
The Little Boy Who Asked For Christmas Cards During His Cancer Treatment Has Passed Away
Update: After receiving an outpour of support in the form of thousands of Christmas cards from strangers (and celebrities) around the world, Jacob Thompson passed away on Nov. 19 after losing his long battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with his family.
Original Story: After battling a rare form of cancer known as stage four neuroblastoma for years, 9-year-old Jacob Thompson's family got news no parent can begin to imagine: he likely won't make it to Christmas. In an effort to keep Jacob's spirits up and the pain at bay, his parents asked the world to send their son Christmas cards - and people are delivering. Jacob's mother, Michelle Thompson Simard, explained that her son has been taken to the hospital for the very last time in a heartbreaking message on the family's Go Fund Me page:
"On Oct. 11, 2017 Jacob was admitted to the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital for the last time. Jacob's neuroblastoma has spread to his head - namely the sinuses, bottom of the skull, several spots in the small bones in the inner ear and several spots on the membrane between the skull and brain. We started radiation a week prior and Jacob's condition got worse and he was having no success with oral pain meds."
After doctors realized the cancer had spread to his hip, they gave Jacob only a month longer to live - urging his parents to spend as much time with him as possible over the next few weeks. The Thompson family has every intention of making the time they have left with their son special and decided to celebrate Christmas early by decorating his hospital room, scheduling an in-person visit with Santa Claus, and watching him open tons of holiday cards from well-wishers.
Planning on sending a card? Mail it to:
Jacob Thompson
C/O Maine Medical Center
22 Bramhall St.
Portland, ME 04102
"Jacob loves the holiday season," Michelle said in an interview with Good Housekeeping, "and we want him to know that Christmas wishes come true and that there are good people who care all around the world."
Try Solving This Riddle That Is Making the Internet Go Crazy
Ready for a brain workout? There's a mother-daughter riddle circulating the internet that's making people go absolutely crazy trying to solve it. The seemingly simple riddle reads as follows:
If Teresa's daughter is my daughter's mother, what am I to Teresa?
If Teresa's daughter is my daughter's mother, who am I to Teresa? a) Grandmother; b) Mother c) Daughter d) I'm Teresa #TriviaTuesday
- Ginger Bock (@Xiniga) June 6, 2017
It's a viral riddle that got people talking months ago when 22 Words introduced it to the world, and people are still talking about it because it's that confusing! We'll give you a few minutes to think on it for yourself before spoiling the answer.
Source: Rede Globo / Giphy
To narrow down the answer choices, 22 Words turned it into a multiple-choice question with the following options: grandmother, mother, daughter, granddaughter, or "I am Teresa." And according to the site, the answer is . . . drum roll, please . . . daughter. As in, the riddle is just a fancier way of saying, "I am my mother's daughter." When you think about it, the statement could read this way: "I am Teresa's daughter, and I am my daughter's mother." Teresa is the mother of the person asking the question. If you're struggling to visualize the breakdown of the relationship, check out this mother-daughter flow chart that explains it.
Does your brain hurt?! Same.
The Details of Selena's Death Are Still Haunting, Even 22 Years Later
Image Source: Everett Collection
Selena Quintanilla was taken from us too soon. The Tejano singer was only 23 years old when she died on March 31, 1995, after the president of her fan club and manager of her boutiques, Yolanda Saldívar, shot her in a hotel room at the Days Inn in Corpus Christi, TX. Twenty-two years later, Selena's true fans still mourn her untimely death.
The tragic events started with a discovery by Selena's father, Abraham Quintanilla, Jr. When fans started calling and sending letters about not receiving merchandise they had paid for, Abraham noticed Yolanda had embezzled more than $60,000 from the fan club and boutiques. Yolanda was fired, but still held some financial paperwork for the stores. That's why Selena arranged a meeting, at the Days Inn, where at 11:48 a.m. (CST), Yolanda shot Selena on the shoulder. The "Como la Flor" singer managed to escape to the lobby, before she was rushed to the hospital and was pronounced dead.
Image Source: Everett Collection
But the terrible ordeal didn't end there. Yolanda locked herself in her pick-up truck in the parking lot of the hotel with the gun for over 10 hours, finally surrendering after the long standoff with police and the FBI. She was found guilty of Selena's murder in a trial in Houston and is serving her sentence at the Mountain View Unit in Gatesville, TX. She will be eligible for parole in March of 2025.
Since Selena's murder, her cultural relevance has only grown. Her legacy has been celebrated most famously by the 1997 movie, Selena, starring Jennifer Lopez, but also with murals, illustrations, wax figures, tribute concerts, apparel, and even some impressive lip art. She remains a cultural icon among Latinx.
Yes, You Can Open a Wine Bottle With a House Key - Watch This Genius Life Hack
No corkscrew? Not a problem. There's nothing worse than being ready for a glass of wine and realizing you can't even open the bottle. Luckily, if you don't have a wine opener with you, there's a genius life hack that will solve your problem.
YouTube user DaveHax demonstrates how to open a wine bottle with a simple house key in the video above. The hack tends to work better on synthetic corks, but it never hurts to try it out on real corks as well. Check it out!
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 Only Couple's Workout You Need to Feel the Burn This Holiday Season
While you should certainly indulge in every bit of rest and relaxation that comes with a holiday break, don't completely forget about your health and fitness goals. Not sure how to stay active with a packed house full of relatives? Try a partner workout!
To guide you, Puerto Rican personal trainer Idalis Velazquez, who is working with Unilever as a part of its empowering #100PorCientoTu campaign, created a five-step HIIT workout guaranteed to leave you feeling the burn. When you're ready to get started, do each of the following moves for 30 seconds with a 15-second break between them. After a full circuit, switch places with your partner, rest for 60 seconds, and do the routine one more time!
30 Styling Tricks We're Stealing From Queen Letizia and Never Giving Back
There are a few reasons Queen Letizia's fans scour the internet for the exact details on her outfits. To start with, the Spanish royal often mixes high-end designer pieces worthy of a ruler with fast-fashion items from brands like Zara, so you can actually steal her exact look. Then, there's the fact that she manages to find new and fun ways to wear classic pieces repeatedly without looking dull. But above all, there's the queen's ability to take risks and show us that when it comes to fashion, there are no rules. Straight ahead, you'll find 30 times her outfits held an important lesson. These are the basics to mastering her signature style.
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 3 Dinner Changes That Helped Me Lose Weight
Not sure why this happened every day, but admittedly, it did. I ate healthy most of the day, with my green protein smoothies for breakfast, perfectly packed mason jar salads for lunch, and fresh fruit and nuts for snacks. I felt like my diet up until 5 p.m. belonged on a frickin' Pinterest board. But for some reason, as soon as I came to that last meal of the day, I just let loose. Which made my pants fit not so loose. It was time to make some changes, and these four adjustments helped me get back on track and lose the weight I had gained from enjoying my supersize free-for-all suppers.
You Eat What You Get
Most of my meals were healthy - the biggest problem for me was that I couldn't stop eating them. I'd divvy myself a serving, then 100 percent of the time, I'd go back to the kitchen for more. Then, of course, since I didn't want food to go to waste, I'd finish off the scraps on my kiddos' plates. A few extra noodles here and some pizza crust there made for a lot of extra fluff around my waist. It had to stop. So once dinner was made, I gave myself a properly portioned serving, and if there were any leftovers, I put them away in the fridge. If it was out of sight, it couldn't tempt me. And I started having the kids bring their own plates to the kitchen and pour any extras into the compost bin. This was probably the hardest change of all to embrace, but after a week, this new habit felt much easier. And I felt lighter and more energetic, too.
Cheese Is Not a Food Group
As a vegetarian, I ate so much dairy. Cheese was a part of every single dinner I made, and because of that, my go-to meals - like pizza, paninis, homemade mac and cheese, and quesadillas - were not so healthy. So when I gave up dairy, it forced me to make new, healthier options that were veggie-based like stir-fries, roasted veggies with rice and beans, soups, and amazing salads. It increased the fiber intake of my dinners, so I actually felt more full and satisfied after those meals than I ever did after a few slices of pizza. No dairy meant eating lower-calorie dinners, and that made a huge difference on the scale.
Dinner and Done
For some reason, I couldn't stop eating once I started eating dinner. Even after that second helping and devouring my kids' extra bites, I always sat down to a little dessert. A little bowl of soy ice cream with sliced bananas or some chocolate chips with almonds was my favorite. I started serving fresh fruit with dinner so after finishing our avocado pasta and tomatoes with sauteed tofu or sweet potato and black bean burritos, we could nosh on some sweet melon, strawberries, or grapes and satisfy that sweet tooth. So once I started putting the leftovers away at dinnertime, and we finished eating and the dishes were done, the kitchen was closed.
10 Things to Never Say to a Healthy Eater
All healthy eaters have one thing in common - they can get extremely cranky. It's not easy to refrain from consuming every carb in the cabinet after a long day of Greek yogurt and salads. Although we have great self-control ("no thanks" is a staple in our vocabulary), sometimes it's just downright impossible to keep our mouths shut when it comes to moronic comments. So keep these things in mind the next time you want to question a healthy eater. Remember, we are probably starving, hangry, and would kill for a donut. You've been warned. . . . Tread lightly.
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!
22 High-Energy Songs Your Next Workout Needs
There's nothing worse than hitting the gym with - gasp! - no music. Upbeat tunes somehow add an extra dose of motivation to power through a difficult sweat session, so having a good playlist in your arsenal is key. But it's super easy to grow tired of the same one, right? We rounded up some of our favorite songs that are sure to give you that extra push to keep moving at the gym. Keep scrolling to discover some of your favorite hits from Shakira, Drake, and, of course, Jennifer Lopez.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
This Hair Color Faux Pas Could Make You Look Older
Broken hearts are the worst. Broken hair cuticles may be just as bad, though - at least that's how LA-based colorist Johnny Ramirez approaches things.
Johnny is known by most of you beauty junkies as one-half of Ramirez-Tran Salon (his partner is Anh Co Tran). Just follow his Instagram account and you'll find yourself down a rabbit hole of dye inspiration. Johnny and Anh have perfected the beachy, lived-in look that so many women covet IRL and on social media.
Talk to anyone who has gone to see Johnny and they'll tell you: it's a process. This isn't your pop-in, pop-out hair color appointment. When I visited him with my shoulder-grazing bob, I spent five hours in his chair. But the finished look is what keeps us coming back . . . every six months, that is.
After my appointment, I picked his brain on how hair can age you, what products every woman should own, and why you should avoid platinum blonde at all costs. Plus, keep reading for some serious color inspiration!
How to Create the Perfect Vintage Updo
Vintage hairstyles are eternally popular for weddings no matter the season, but a too-literal interpretation can leave a bride with a serious case of helmet head. So what's the key to borrowing from the past without looking stuck in it? Texture and movement. "The perfectly coiffed updo is outdated," says Dani Weidner, a stylist who worked at Robert James Color in San Francisco. "Imperfect is best."
To balance contemporary trends with a retro influence, Weidner designed this '20s-inspired updo. A defined curl and thick roll give a nod to the past, but the overall look feels fresh and current. It's an ideal style for brides - and it's one you can do at home. To get the look, read on for pictures and step-by-step instructions.
A Double-Duty Hair Idea For Naturally Curly Brides
Sleek looks never go out of style for a formal affair, but if you have curly hair, you'll want to make sure you're applying heat the right way to prevent damaging those delicate strands. Anthony Dickey, cofounder of Hair Rules Salon in New York, has the solution to getting the smoothness you desire, all while maintaining the integrity of your hair. So convert your curls into sultry vintage waves, or opt for a more modern asymmetrical updo. Here are two looks you'll love to try this holiday season.
The Very Best Carbs For Weight Loss
Yes, a low-carb diet can help you shed weight quickly, but if you're an active person looking to achieve sustainable weight loss, it's time to stop demonizing all carbs. We're here to make complex carbs, the good kind of carbs, feel a little less complicated.
Carbohydrates, along with proteins and fats, are macronutrients. We need to all three in large quantities since they provide energy, aka calories. Carbs can be broken down further into two categories: simple and complex. Both simple and complex carbs turn into glucose (blood sugar) in the body, which our muscles use as fuel. The classification depends on the carbohydrate's molecular structure, which affects how the carbs are broken down and absorbed by the body. Complex carbohydrates are made of longer molecule chains than their simple counterparts and therefore take longer for the body to break down and absorb.
Simple carbohydrates - found naturally in foods like fruit, milk products, white bread, and table sugar - are broken down and absorbed quickly, causing a sharp rise in your blood sugar levels that can leave you feeling tired and hungry soon after eating them. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates are fibrous and starchy and are found in foods like legumes, starchy vegetables, and whole grains. Complex carbs release glucose more slowly into the bloodstream, offering a steadier source of energy to keep blood sugar levels stable and pesky hunger pangs away.
Luckily, complex carbohydrates leave you more satisfied than their simple counterparts, but when trying to lose weight, portion control of healthy, nutritious foods is just as important as the foods we choose to eat. Many dietitians suggest incorporating appropriate portions of complex carbohydrates into their weight-loss meal plans, since they can help you lose the weight and keep it off.
Recipes
If you're still loading up on simple carbs and aren't sure what to opt for in the kitchen, we've got you covered. Here are some recipes full of complex carbohydrates we love that you will too:
- Apple cinnamon quinoa bake: Protein- and fiber-packed quinoa is the perfect complex carb to kick-start your metabolism. Make this hearty quinoa bake on Sunday night, so you'll have breakfast for the whole week.
- Overnight oats with chia seeds and slivered almonds: High in protein and fiber, this whole-grain recipe will keep hunger at bay all morning long. Even better, this recipe supports healthy digestion and can even help you beat belly bloat.
- Brown rice sushi bowl: This brown rice bowl is topped off with an inventive mix of bright and colorful produce plus tender, sustainable albacore tuna, full of B vitamins, protein, and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. If you're on a weight-loss mission, only serve up one-third or a half cup of brown rice rather than a full cup to keep calories in check.
- Spicy sweet potato salad: Instead of white spuds, opt for this spicy sweet potato salad that's much higher in fiber than the standard. It comes with a spicy, antioxidant-rich red pepper and jalapeño dressing ties everything together.
- Red pepper and lentil bake: Looking for a protein-rich complex carb? Bring on the lentils! This red pepper and lentil bake is a winning weight-loss dish you can enjoy after a workout.
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
This 12 Days of Wellness Advent Calendar Is Stocked With Essential Oils
Forget chocolates, socks, and sex toys - we want an advent calendar that's all about our wellness. And lucky for us, Saje released just the thing we're looking for this season. The 12 Days of Wellness Advent Calendar ($110) is stocked with bottles of essential oils made with ingredients from all over the world.
"Blended with ingredients grown natively in each region, these limited edition blends celebrate the vibrancy of our diverse planet," says Saje. "Let's show gratitude for the world that we live in and all that it has to offer."
Each of the 12 items is a unique combination of oils - you can check out the different types that are included ahead (11 are shown because the 12th bottle is a surprise!). The bottles come in beautiful packaging, making the advent calendar a perfect gift for anyone in your life who is working on their wellness!
Articles
