Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 11 décembre 2017
Zendaya, Hero, Fixed a Reporter's Messy Hair Mid-Interview
As far as celebrity beauty junkies go, few are as obsessive as Zendaya. The actress regularly updates her namesake app with products she's loving (usually drugstore!) and often does her own makeup for the red carpet. As we've seen, she's also quite the hair aficionado and has experimented with everything from an Afro to pixie cuts to platinum blonde. She's also the kind of beauty-lover who wants everyone to look their best . . . and will fix you up if she has to.
During a press junket promoting her latest movie, The Greatest Showman, Zendaya stopped mid-interview to fix the reporter's hair. "Hold on, really quick. I don't want to be weird," she said, getting out of her seat and slicking down the guy's wayward strand. "This is going to bother me. You have one piece of hair . . . I got you. I was like, 'He's going to be mad about it when he sees it later!'" Isn't she the best?
Consider this reason number 1,523,600 we love Zendaya.
This Is the Biggest Mistake You're Making With Your Clarisonic
While I'd like to think that there are quite a few characteristics Oprah and I have in common, one in particular is that we both love the Clarisonic! I've been a devotee of the cleansing brush since it first appeared on the market in 2004. (Granted, I was unable to get one until after I graduated college - as I tell everyone considering the device, it is a skin care investment.)
I've seen Clarisonic evolve from what could have been a gimmicky tool to an absolute necessity for a clear, radiant complexion. I am actually shocked when I talk to friends, co-workers, or even complete strangers who do not own one - how has their skin survived without it?
In all seriousness, it's clear that I love the product - I feel cleaner when I use it. My skin glows. I don't have to spend 10 minutes removing my makeup with a wipe, then a face wash, then another wipe, only to find foundation on the towel. It's a convenience and a luxury wrapped into one tool. Because I'm such a fan, many of my friends consult me about which model to purchase. That's when I realized how confusing it can be: the brand offers seven models, as well as a variety of brush heads to choose from!
Recently, I visited Clarisonic headquarters in Seattle to learn about their new launch, the Mia Fit ($189) While there, I chatted with Dr. Robb Akridge (lovingly known to beauty editors and his colleagues as "Dr. Robb"), one of the inventors of the device. He clarified which device and brush head you should start with based on your needs. Read on to learn which one you should grab first . . . or, if you're as addicted as I am, pick up next!
These Stunning Eylure x Vegas Nay Brow Palettes Are Coming to Ulta Soon! (Exclusive)
Beauty influencer Vegas Nay is giving you a chance to take a break from 2017's unicorn-inspired beauty trend. The influencer (who has 7.8m followers!) is expanding her faux eyelashes partnership with Eylure to now include to gorgeous neutral-hued palettes. It feels refreshingly basic - in the best way possible - in a time when other makeup artists and vloggers are outdoing each other with holographic pigments, glitter masks, and oil slick finishes.
The Eylure x Vegas Nay Brow Powder Palette ($20) and Highlighting Palette ($15) have the taupe, brown, and metallic (gold, rose gold, etc.) shades you need to get those bold "Instagram brows" - the kind of sculpted arch Vegas is known to promote.
"It's always fun and exciting when playing with colors and unicorn shades, but I feel those work best when translating through editorial projects," Vegas told POPSUGAR via email. She also noted that she originally choose to focus on brows since they "complete the look" - whether you're creating a "high arched brow, soft natural brow, a realistic brow (using an intensified brush hairlike stroke), or even a dramatized thick brow."
What is so unique about these two palettes is that once Vegas was done, she realized they could both be used beyond just brows.
"My inner artist/stylist influenced the creative process in these palettes," she said. "I decided to add a beautiful maroon color to the range as that truly describes my fun and playful side. In reality, makeup is art, which is made to be fun and exciting to help you find your unique style."
She went on, "When I added the maroon color, I had a wow moment. This color alone intensified and added such exquisite drama to the other colors in the palette. It inspired the idea that these two palettes alone can virtually be used as eye shadows and highlighters. If you were to travel the world, you could effectively create any eye-shadow style - from a soft natural eye-shadow look to the most alluring smoky eyes."
In essence, feel free to go HAM on your eyelids with these palettes. Plus, the highlighters can live all over your face.
"These silky highlighters were initially created to highlight the brow bone and to properly achieve the smooth line under the brow," Vegas explained. "When I started playing around with these sleek finishes, I instantly realized that you can illuminate your face with these striking highlighters, from a soft natural radiance to a beautiful glamorous glow."
And, yes, Vegas was truly hands-on when it came to executing this project. "The best part of this collaboration with Eylure was that I was given full creative control, and together as a close team, we selected the very best quality of textures, pigments, shades and tones," she noted.
Part of that was making sure she had colors for diverse skin tones. "The colors were inspired to cater toward all skin tones, from cool to warm and the lightest to deepest pigments," Vegas said.
Since Vegas is so damn skilled at applying makeup, we had to ask her application tips for using these products. "Work in soft layers and slowly building up to what look you favor," she advised. "For brows, use a precise slanted brush and lightly add soft strokes that mimic those of your natural brow hairs. For more drama, add a deeper pigment on the outer part of the brows. When using the highlighter, use a matte finish for a clean lower brow line and a hint of shimmer on the highest part of the brow bone. You can also use the highlight on the tear duct of textured eyes for an added pop!"
Snag these two palettes when they drop at Ulta stores and online on Dec. 15.
"PB & J Hair" Is the Newest Color Trend Taking Over Instagram (and Your Lunchbox)
There doesn't need to be a cafeteria food fight for your favorite nostalgic snack to jump out of your lunchbox and onto your hair . . . just ask the folks rocking the new color trend, "peanut butter and jelly hair."
Maryland-based stylist and rainbow hair enthusiast Megan Schipani coined the phrase after a look fashioned with berry-purple hues and caramel balayage highlights, and we're absolutely obsessed. The multidimensional hairstyle is equal parts elevated and nostalgic, allowing the wearer to have fun with pops of color without going full-blown rainbow unicorn.
"It is always a huge help for a stylist to have visuals since we are pretty visual to begin with," the stylist told Allure of her hair color creation. But don't just bring in a photo of your favorite lunch ingredients - we've rounded up several examples of PB&J hair to inspire your next hairstyle.
12 Drugstore Lip Balms That'll Get You Through Winter Chap Free
Lip balm is one of those skin care and makeup essentials that you can easily find at the drugstore. The problem is there are often too many varieties from which to choose at the drugstore. Whether it's for hydration, serious skin repair, or a touch of color, hands down there's a tube out there made for you. Read on for a list of 10 top lip balm picks, each one under $10.
Eggnog-Flavored "Dessert Hummus" Is Just About as Festive (and Healthy!) as It Gets
Image Source: The Hummus & Pita Co.
Step aside, sugar cookies and pecan pies - there's a trendy new holiday dessert in town, and it's actually superhealthy. Before we could even finish obsessing over the life-changing culinary creation that is dessert hummus, we've just learned that eggnog-flavored dessert hummus exists now. Guys, this is truly a holiday miracle.
The Hummus & Pita Co. is the original source of this glorious holiday-ready treat, as the New York-based Mediterranean restaurant just added eggnog hummus to its menu through the end of the year. The pita joint also offers other dessert-approved hummus flavors like vanilla cake batter and chocolate chip cookie dough, all of which can be paired with the store's homemade cinnamon pita chips, strawberries, or bananas (though TBH, we'd gladly eat this stuff by the spoonful). Each dessert hummus option is made with a chickpea base and is gluten-free, protein-packed, and high in antioxidants. Heck yes!
Unfortunately, The Hummus & Pita Co. currently only has locations in New York City (though it is expanding to Colorado, Connecticut, and New Jersey next year). We got the inside scoop on how to make this holiday-ready treat for all you eggnog-lovers who don't live in the Big Apple, so get out those recipe books, and listen up. The Hummus & Pita Co. starts by making its own homemade eggnog with eggs, honey, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, although a store-bought version would suffice as well. Then they blend it together with cooked chickpeas, almond butter, oatmeal, and baking soda. It's as easy as that!
On the other hand, if you do live in or near New York, the glorious folks over at The Hummus & Pita Co. can infuse your eggnog hummus with rum if you stop by one of the stores. Does it get much more holly jolly than that?
Image Source: CBS
Decorate With These 5 Powerful Crystals to Get Your Guests in the Holiday Spirit
At the holidays, we're often reminded of that old adage "you can choose your friends but not your family." Perhaps it's because this is the time of year we're forced into intimate contact with all our relatives, often right in our own home. What if we told you that instead of fretting over rude MILs, entitled siblings, and political clashes at the dinner table, you could use the power of crystals to help bring the spirit of Christmas to everyone under your roof? Yes, it's a bit woo-woo - but it's also worth trying.
Dr. Athena Perrakis is the founder and CEO of Sage Goddess, a website described as "the world's largest source of sacred tools and metaphysical education." We consulted with her to find out how to harness the unique energetic vibrations of crystals and which specific gemstones we should decorate with to improve the holiday spirit in our homes. Ahead, she shares the exact stones that will help get you and all of your guests into the loving, joyful, and generous mood of the season.
This Woman's Story About Helping Another Mom at Target Proves It Takes a Village to Raise Kids
Every parent needs a teensy bit of time to themselves every now and then, and that's exactly what Jess Johnston, a mother of four, had in mind when she climbed into her car sans kids and headed to the place where she could truly be alone with her thoughts: Target. But sometimes the universe has something else in store no matter how carefully you plan, and that was the case when Jess stumbled upon a mom who was struggling with her three kids in the checkout line that afternoon. She recounted why it's important to stand in solidarity with other moms in her blog, Wonderoak.
"I am not used to being the one who is not the parent of the screaming child. This was uncharted territory," she wrote. "I identified with her painfully and I wanted desperately to affirm her. I wasn't sure what to do except smile and look as nonjudgmental as possible. I tried to think of what I could say, like, should I shout above the screaming, 'YOU'RE AMAZING!!' Or should I go in for a fist bump, 'You got this!!'"
Fortunately for Jess, she got her chance to help the struggling mama out and wasted no time jumping at the chance. "Before I could process what my awesome, pro-mom, non-judgey response was going to be the mom turned to me with desperate eyes, 'I'm sorry, um, can you hold her?' She held out her crying infant towards me. 'YES!' I said eagerly. As I took her precious one in my arms, the little girl made eye contact and then wailed. I bounced her gently and put her pacifier back in her mouth, feeling such an intense solidarity with this mama."
Jess went on to explain that she's lost count of exactly how many times she's felt helpless in similar situations - after all, having one crying kiddo in public is hard enough - and sometimes you just need an extra set of hands. "I have been the woman in the checkout line more times than I can count. I've stood sweating in this woman's exact position, barely commanding the tears to wait until I got to my car," she said. "I've felt my face grow red and hot as my toddler screamed and kicked, waking up my baby who was angry and ready to nurse. I've felt so alone and so out of control."
Jess explained to POPSUGAR that when push came to shove, helping her fellow mom out was actually a "healing" experience for her. "There is something about moms helping moms and being a part of a village that is so powerful to me. She trusted me even though I was a stranger, and that was a gift."
220+ Brand-New Toys Your Kids Will Be Begging For This Year
This year's annual Toy Fair - aka a giant convention center filled with all of the year's biggest upcoming toy releases - gave us a serious glimpse into the hottest new toys coming out in 2017. From Disney and Lego to pool toys and electronics, these are the over 220 brand-new toys your kids are going to be absolutely begging for this year (we realize this information is both a gift and a curse, but hey, at least you'll have ideas for the next few birthday parties and holidays on the calendar).
Read through to see all of the hot toys we previewed from your and your child's favorite brands - and more importantly, shop everything that's already available.
These Rose Gold Hairbrushes Are Prettier Than Me, and I'm 100% OK With It
Rose gold isn't just a color - it's a freakin' way of life. The luxurious metallic hue has infiltrated our beauty routines in the form of chic makeup brushes and shimmery highlighters, so it comes as no surprise that rose gold hairbrushes exist. UK-based beauty brand Lily England currently sells not one but four rose gold hairbrushes, and now that we've discovered them, we're never going back to our basic hair-detangling devices ever again.
Each of Lily England's gorgeous, shiny brushes serves a different purpose - the paddle brush is made to detangle and smooth hair, while the vent brush is perfect for a quick blow-drying session. If you have a rose-gold-obsessed BFF in your life, these pretty-as-can-be beauty tools are a must-have gift for the holidays (or, ya know, you could also treat yourself to them because everyone needs Instagrammable hairbrushes in their arsenal, am I right?).
Read ahead to see (and shop) all four glorious brushes, along with a three-pack set, which may or may not have just nabbed the No. 1 spot on my Christmas wish list. I promise I've been nice this year, Santa!
I Tried 4 Shades of Blue Lipstick So You Don't Have To
When I read the POPSUGAR headline We're Calling It: Blue Lipsticks Are Going to Be the Hottest Color Trend of 2016, I clutched my chest in what was likely a comically accurate imitation of a Southern grandmother. "This is my time to shine," I thought, remembering the vanity in my apartment filled with "impractical" shades of lipstick that always earn comments from people I pass on the street. When the opportunity arose for me to put these blue hues on display, I happily grabbed my favorite exfoliating sugar scrub and lip primer and settled down for a good old-fashioned test.
Over the course of testing my lip color collection, I learned that not all blue lipsticks are created equal. The shades are extremely different, and the formula plays a huge role in how vibrant the color appears. For this test, I tried four different shades of blue and wrote reviews of each to give you an idea about the range of hues on the market!
Press play on your Eiffel 95 "I'm Blue" playlist (you totally have one, right?) and get your credit card ready because you'll definitely want to add one of these to your collection.
22 Beauty Resolutions to Make in Your 30s
So you found a gray hair or a wrinkle that isn't going away; no reason to panic. No one should be scared of turning 30, but in case you are, we've rounded up the beauty rules that POPSUGAR's most fabulous 30-something editors live by. So if 30 is around the corner, resolve to trade your addiction to tanning, smoking, or sparkly lip gloss for new vices, like serums, deep conditioners, and a pricey stylist.
While your 20s are a time for experimenting with edgy haircuts, lip colors, and questionable sexual partners, in your 30s, it's time to get serious about your long-term health and your long-term beauty. As soon as you accept that, the easier it will be; plus, it's an excuse to buy more beauty products. So keep calm and read on for 22 beauty rules to follow in your 30s.
38 Beauty Products Magical Enough For Real-Life Unicorns
Listen up, unicorns! This has been the year of mythical beauty products - iridescent, holographic, fantasy-inspired goodies have delighted beauty girls all year long. Who could forget the unicorn-horn makeup brushes that took over Instagram or the "unicorn tears" lipstick that magically flatters every skin tone? If you or somebody on your holiday gift list can't get enough of the unicorn goodness, we've gathered a huge selection of beauty products fantastical enough to buy ASAP. We promise, filling your shopping cart has never felt like such a fairy tale.
This Is What Makes Starbucks's Christmas Tree Frappuccino Taste Like the Holidays
Yes, it's true: we can officially add a Christmas Tree Frappuccino to the list of unexpected Frappuccinos on the Starbucks menu. Consider it a gift! But what's in a Frappuccino named after a Christmas tree, anyway? Turns out, it's full of ingredients that will give you all the holiday vibes, and the ingredients are strategically layered to mimic the look of a decorated tree. Here's what you're sipping when you commit to the limited-edition drink:
- Peppermint Mocha Crème Frappuccino (contains dairy)
- Matcha whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
- Candied cranberry "ornaments"
- A strawberry on top
No glitter or food coloring necessary here (sorry, Unicorn Frappuccino). If this sounds like a heavenly combination to you, try it out for yourself from Dec. 7 through 11.
Meet the Next Generation of Beauty Influencers
While we've traditionally looked to the silver screen for celebrity beauty inspiration, the modern era has us looking at big names on smaller screens - our laptops and smartphones.
The future of the world is digital, fame included. The new crop of stars are making names for themselves on YouTube, Instagram, and other online platforms. As people increasingly turn to makeup and hair tutorials to help us get our acts (and faces) together, the popularity of beauty influencers has surged beyond all expectations.
Besides accessibility, these social platforms also offer more opportunity for a range of influencers to find success - including young aspiring makeup artists and beauty gurus. In fact, it seems that teens have an edge on their older competitors when it comes to digital media, since they've grown up surrounded by and immersed in technology - and perhaps have the most thorough understanding of the newest applications.
Sure to be the next generation of beauty stars, these influencers prove that the game is changing. And, based on the talent we've seen from these teens thus far, we can't wait to see where they go from here. No matter how famous they get, though, we hope they'll keep teaching us along the way.
You Could Practically Hear the Crickets at Trump's First Christmas Tree Lighting
President Donald Trump was joined by his wife, family members, and, well, that's about it for the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on Nov. 30. The first family officially rang in the holiday season with the 95th annual tree lighting at the White House, and the crowd was, in the infamous words of the president himself, "Sad!"
ABC7 News meteorologist Steve Rudin, who was present at the event, shared the below tweet to show just how dismal the attendance really was. On the plus side, it looks like plenty of crickets were there to partake in the holiday fun.
The National Tree Lighting ceremony was beautiful this evening - but hard not to notice the empty seats. #Christmas #DMV #USA http://pic.twitter.com/oKMrnnBekG
- Steve Rudin ABC7 (@SteveRudinABC7) November 30, 2017
Of course, tons of Twitter users couldn't help but blast the embarrassing evidence all over social media, with many commenting on how it gave them serious flashbacks to the equally desolate crowd at Trump's inauguration earlier this year. On top of that, a few also noted the stark contrast between the attendance at Obama's tree lighting ceremonies while he was in office and that of Trump's.
It's truly only a matter of time before our POTUS takes to Twitter to proclaim this as "fake news" and insist that the "bigly" crowd was one of the largest in history - "period!" But we've got the hard evidence here, along with all the hilariously savage tweets about the tree lighting event, all of which you can read below.
Unilever Is Launching a New Drugstore Eco Brand - and It's Going to Help Save the Planet
Real talk: the environment is scary as hell right now. It feels like every month there is a terrifying new natural disaster from the fires to earthquakes and hurricanes. It can leave us feeling pretty helpless and at Mother Nature's mercy.
You've probably heard the idea that every little bit counts when it comes to making the planet more eco-friendly and hopefully combating some of the global warming happening. One way you can do this is via your beauty routine. And Unilever - the parent corporation that creates drugstore products like Dove, Pond's, and Simple - is about to make it easy and affordable for you to do your part. Oh yeah, and you'll smell fantastic and have commercial-ready hair in the process.
This month, drugstores near you will carry a brand-new hair and body line called Love Beauty and Planet. Over a year ago, Unilever put together a dream team of execs and creatives to dream up the ultimate environment-friendly mass beauty line. To make a long story short, Love Beauty and Planet was born. It marks the first time a major corporation has considered every element of the products from the naturally sourced fragrances to recyclable packaging and special rinse-out technology (to shorten your shower time and waste less water). As someone who has "seen it all," I can confirm that this movement feels fresh.
Here's what you need to know about Love Beauty and Planet:
The Products
There are 18 haircare product and eight body products in the offering, all priced between $3 and $9. The range includes everything from detoxifying shampoos to smoothing styling balms and second-day dry shampoos (yes, that is a new category). On the bodycare side, there are creamy body scrubs, cleansing mists, and luxe body washes.
Even though there are six collections, within each family, the offering is not overwhelming. Expect up to about five products in each to deal with your most-important needs - be it frizz or dry skin. Part of being more eco-conscious is pairing down, and we're seeing minimalism as a trend for 2018.
The Fragrances
As an early tester of Love Beauty and Planet, I was genuinely blown away by how elegant and modern the fragrances are. While we all love our drugstore fragrances, they are often too saccharine (like everything labeled "vanilla coconut") or miss the mark when it comes to sexy musk. These scents were all infused, ethically sourced oil or extracts, meaning they offer a much more elevated sensorial experience. I would compare the fragrances to products you'd find at high-end natural boutiques, such as Credo or even Whole Foods, rather than classic mall chains.
There are six fragrance families that include Coconut & Ylang Ylang, Tea Tree & Vetiver, Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower, Argan Oil & Lavender, Shea Butter & Sandalwood, and Murumuru Butter & Rose. The Argan Oil & Lavender is my absolute favorite as it smells like honey and lavender from the South of France. It's not overly pungent (as some lavenders can be), and it immediately calms my mind when I inhale it.
Ingredients for the fragrances were obtained by Givaudan, a fragrance supplier that focuses on responsible sourcing and supporting local farming communities. Basically, these are the perfumery "good guys." Expect ingredients, such as French heirloom lavender, Moroccan mimosa flower, or Bulgarian rose.
The Formula
The coolest factor about the brand is it has special hair-rinsing technology that speeds up the process, with the idea being that if your shower is quicker, you won't use up as much water.
"Many people know that showering requires a lot of water," Matthew Seal, research & development partner for Love Beauty and Planet, told POPSUGAR. "It is not difficult to reduce shower time, but to do so while not sacrificing the benefits you get from conditioner is what makes this technology so revolutionary. Our patent-pending, fast-rinse technology can help you save water, while also delivering all the desired beauty benefits you've come to expect from a conditioner." He also noted that during tests, the new fast-rinse technology for the conditioner reduced rinsing time by up to 20 percent.
"If every person cut just 10 seconds from their shower time, that would save 750ml of water - or one wine bottle!" Seal added.
The Packaging
All of the pretty and colorful labels on the 100 percent recycled plastic are easily removable. If those labels can't be taken off, then a bottle cannot be recycled, so many things that claim to have this property actually don't. Oh, and the caps are made from recycled plastic, too.
Read on to see every product in this exciting new launch!
NYX Just Casually Released the Lipstick-Filled Advent Calendar of Your Freakin' Dreams!
NYX Cosmetics just went all Santa Claus on us by releasing a gorgeous range of holiday goodies, including a freakin' lipstick-filled Advent calendar - yes, really. We thought regular ol' chocolate-filled seasonal calendars were pretty cool, but NYX's version is so much more festive.
The Lippie Countdown Advent Calendar is jam-packed with 24 bold, bright lip products for every day of the holiday season, including fan favorites like its silky Butter Gloss and Soft Matte Lip Creams, to name a few. The calendar opens up like a book to reveal 24 lip-shaped graphics for each day of the month leading up to Christmas. Good luck resisting the urge to open just one slot each day!
This glorious Advent calendar is now available at both NYX Cosmetics and Ulta for just $65, which averages out to roughly $3 per product - what a steal! Ahead, catch a glimpse of the limited-edition box of holiday products, and prepare to grab your credit card faster than you can say, "Ho ho ho!"
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!
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.
10 Beauty Hacks That You Should Not Try at Home
Slowly step away from the internet . . . after you read this, of course. For many of us, Instagram is our beacon of beauty light, our trend report, and our personal beauty tutor. It can also steer us down a hopeless path to bad skin and unwise makeup decisions. While we all love a good hack - especially when it can potentially shave money and time off of our routine - they aren't always the smartest ways to save. There's a wealth of good that can be found in DIY beauty feeds and genius makeup ideas from some of our favorite gurus, but some things should never, ever be tried at home. Like, ever. We asked three dermatologists to weigh in on the potential hazards of 10 beauty hacks that have collectively gathered millions of views, or probably tons of tries.
15 Champagne Beauty Finds That Will Get You in a Celebratory Mood
One of the best parts about the holidays is the constant state of celebration, which means bottles upon bottles of Champagne. While we love to sip the hard stuff, we also know that champagne is one of the prettiest colors out there. Whether you're into a warm rose hue or a more traditional beige color, it highlights eyes, cheeks, and lips. Plus, the Champagne scent is a favorite for candles and body fragrances alike. We've rounded up an array of Champagne-inspired products that will make you feel opulent as you count down until New Year's Eve. If that's not worth a big "cheers," we don't know what is!
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!
Pinterest Searches For Hair Accessories Are Up 400%, So We Found The Prettiest Ones
Headbands, usually reserved for your Blair Waldorf Halloween costume, are back in a big way. How big, you ask? If Pinterest data is to be believed, searches for "hair accessories" are up by 400 percent. That means it's time to pull your hair back into a ponytail and get to work - shopping for your new favorite accoutrement, of course!
Of course, the term "hair accessories" applies not only to headbands, but also bows, clips, and barrettes. So, even if 'bands give you headaches, you can get in on one of the season's most fabulously girlie trends. Ahead, we've found the 16 prettiest hair accessories you can buy right now.
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.
The World's Top 10 Most Glamorous Cities to Ring in the New Year
To ring in 2018, we've hunted down some of the world's most glamorous cities to celebrate the new year. These celebrated cities across the globe offer a rich variety of culture, music, and ambiance. Raise your Champagne glasses, and get ready to feel alive with breathtaking views, burlesque shows, and caviar this New Year's Eve.
16 Fierce Zumba-Inspired Workouts on YouTube That You Can (and Should) Do at Home
Love to Zumba? Good news: you don't need a gym membership or a Groupon to get in on the hip-shaking (and calorie-burning!) fun. Plenty of certified Zumba instructors actually upload their choreography to YouTube for anyone to follow along. The obvious downside is not having anyone there to point out your mistakes, but if you have two left feet, you might just view that as a positive.
Either way, trying out a new workout is a great way to jumpstart your healthy 2017 goals! Keep scrolling to follow along as these professionals demonstrate superhot routines set to some of your favorite Latin songs. Then, turn up our extra-motivating playlist.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
58 Tween Gifts That Will Prove You Actually Know What's Cool
When it comes to shopping for tweens, some parents might feel a bit out of their depths (tweens are, after all, mysterious creatures). If you're confused about what's trendy and can't think of anything to wrap for the holidays this year, we're here to help you look like you're picking up what the kids are putting down - and more importantly, gain some cool points with your kid and their friends.
Scroll through for 58 tween gifts that will prove you know what's up this holiday season.
Prepare to Spit Out Your Water When You Hear What These Men Think About Birth Control
A recent study is causing quite the uproar, and once you learn about its findings, you'll likely want to scream in frustration, too. PerryUndem, a non-partisan public opinion research firm, surveyed slightly more than 1,000 registered voters nationwide about contraceptives and the policies that surround them. One statistic in particular really stood out among the rest.
Only 37 percent of men noted that they had benefitted personally from women having access to affordable birth control. Allow me to repeat that: only 37 percent. That meant a whopping 52 percent of men who stated they did not personally benefit from the presence of affordable birth control (with the other remaining percentage saying they were unsure about the matter or refusing to answer).
Apparently these men are unable to comprehend how many babies they could have potentially had roaming the earth if it weren't for birth control. As news of this survey's particularly ludicrous finding spread across social media, so did the plethora of disgusted reactions from people who couldn't seem to wrap their heads around the absurdity of it all. Check out their reactions ahead.
Cure Your Skin Care Woes and Pumpkin Cravings With a DIY Face Mask
It's officially pumpkin season! Sure, you're already hooked on pumpkin spice lattes and have made a date in your calendar to find the perfect jack o'lantern, but are you aware of the benefits that this iconic squash can provide to your skin? Packed with zinc, antioxidants, and vitamins, pumpkins protect your skin from wrinkles and age spots as well as gently exfoliating for a more radiant complexion. Don't have a pumpkin patch nearby? You can get this orange fruit (yup, it's a fruit!) in a can at your local supermarket.
- Make your base: Whisk together about 1/4 cup of pumpkin and one whole egg. The yolk adds nourishment while the white provides a subtle tightening effect to sagging skin.
- Dry skin additive: Add a few teaspoons of honey, which not only seals in moisture, but prevents breakouts thanks to its antibacterial properties.
- Oily skin additive: For an astringent effect, mix in a splash of apple cider or cranberry juice.
- Apply: Smooth the pumpkin-y potion over your face, relax for 15 to 20 minutes, and rinse to reveal a brighter, firmer, smoother complexion.
7 Body Powders to Try If You're Avoiding Talc
Talcum powder has been making headlines lately, but it's not a new ingredient. It's been used for centuries and can be found in a slew of consumer products, from dry shampoo and blush to baby powder. But what is talc, exactly? It's a mineral that is made up of silicon, oxygen, and magnesium and is meant to absorb moisture (therefore preventing rashes). In its natural state, talc can contain asbestos, which is a known carcinogen - but according to the American Cancer Society, commercial products containing talc have been asbestos-free since the 1970s.
However, the controversial ingredient has been linked to cancer when it comes to feminine hygiene. Though findings have been mixed, some studies report that women who use talcum powder in the genital area could be at a higher risk for ovarian cancer. It is said that powder can travel through the vagina into the ovary, but none of the findings have been concrete.
Remember: it's always best to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding products you use on your body. However, if you're looking to avoid talc but still want to sprinkle on something to absorb extra moisture, we've got you covered! Read on to shop talc-free body powders.
1 Affordable Product Made This Jaw-Dropping DIY Kitchen Makeover Possible
Frustration over an ugly, outdated kitchen is something most people can relate to; unfortunately, a pricey renovation isn't in the cards for most - hello, budget! So how to create a beautiful space you actually want to live in without breaking the bank? One product: Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan.
Jessica Ahnert Davis, the founder of Nest Studio LLC, discovered that Chalk Paint® is the surprisingly easy and refreshingly affordable way to dramatically update a space. This design-savvy mom used it to artfully transform every inch of her kitchen - and we mean every single inch, from painting the cabinets to stenciling the tiles on the floor. Like magic, Chalk Paint® worked wonders on every surface. And more than looking fabulous, Jessica discovered it's easy to apply. She said she did virtually no prep (bye bye, hours of sanding and priming!) and had an easy time mixing the paint and cleaning it up, too.
Check out the jaw-dropping before and after images ahead, then read about Jessica's Chalk Paint® makeover in depth on The Kitchn.
Just the Right Amount of Lagom: 7 Books to Help You Achieve Balance
In the same way that Goldilocks was always in search of the perfect chair, bed, and temperature of her porridge, we are all looking for a life that feels just right. Sweden has been aware of the power of this balance for centuries, and in Swedish there's even a word for it: lagom, which translates to "just the right amount." The concept has recently started to make waves in the publishing industry, and rather ironically, the number of books being released might be considered the opposite of lagom. If 2017 was the year of hygge, 2018 looks like it will be all about lagom.
Ahead, find 10 of the best books that help readers incorporate the lagom lifestyle into their own daily lives.
Ways For Introverts to Get Their Energy Back When Other Humans Suck It Out of Them
I love people, kind of. I enjoy being social, occasionally. But people also really, really stress me out. To the casual observer, I'm probably perceived as somewhat of an extrovert, mainly because I can hold a conversation (never mind how many hundreds of times I go over that conversation in my head afterward), and because I am pretty talkative.
Because of this, it sometimes comes as a surprise to the people around me when I turn down an invitation to an event or even to a quiet cup of coffee when I physically cannot be around them anymore. This is no fault of their own; I'm just a true introvert at heart, and when my mental battery is drained, I can't find the energy to interact with people until I've done something to recharge it again. I love all things Myers & Briggs, and I recently came across a Quora thread with tips from introverts on different ways to "recharge" themselves. If you're a hardcore introvert like me, these tips may really help you figure out ways to make the most of your happiness - both socially and personally. Here's what you can do to get some of your energy back when other humans suck it out of you.
1. Recharge via output.
Whether it be photography, crafting, cooking, knitting, painting, gardening, or even coloring, introverts can benefit greatly by creating something. By testing their own abilities and patience and by having something - big or small - to show for it at the end, we enjoy a sense of accomplishment. "When I actually finish a task that I had set to myself and that was creating backlog, something that I had to do alone . . . I feel recharged," said Quora user Sagorika Sinha. "These are crafts that are actually really simple to make but that take a lot of time that I can spend alone. I have patience. The fact that they turn out pretty (sometimes I have no idea of what the result will be) it feels like a real victory over something."
2. Shop alone.
It may seem counterintuitive to send an introvert out into the wild (aka to a store or the mall), but it's not necessarily people in general introverts need a break from, but interactions with people that require a lot of effort. Sometimes getting in the zone at the grocery store or mall can allow introverts to check things off their list and feel accomplished - but these trips are usually better when done during off-hours and with headphones in.
3. Socialize in a small group.
"It's not always that we need silence to recharge ourselves. Sometimes we do so by socializing with others, and in such cases the group is either two or three people," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "It's mostly trusted friends with whom we can be ourselves and not sit awkwardly, have a good and meaningful discussion. We can even spend hours talking in such a group. But increase the number of people and we are done for. Too many people to listen and talk to, and energy goes down real fast."
4. Take a long drive.
I don't think there's anything that helps me recharge more than a long drive alone. Introverts are able to literally distance themselves from people and feel comfortable in their own controlled environment while experiencing the freedom of mobility that driving (especially down long, open roads) provides.
5. Avoid any contact with people.
Sometimes introverts really, truly need to be by themselves. "Imagine it like this," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "The more we have to speak and/or hear others speaking, the more tired we become. The more tired we get, the more silent we become (which was a lot to begin with). When there is no contact with anyone, and this sometimes include SMS/web chats too, we feel relaxed. It's like our being is at harmony again. The world feels right, the time feels right, everything feels right, and we stay in that bliss until we feel rejuvenated enough to interact with the world again." Couldn't have put it better myself.
6. Read or write.
There is no better escape for an introvert than through a good book. We are able to get inside our own heads, or better yet, inside another world completely. In these worlds, real or not, introverts can retreat into themselves - a place they are typically the most comfortable - and gain energy from within. Similarly, writing is a way escape and to express our thoughts and feelings in a productive way without having to verbalize anything at all.
7. Enjoy self-entertainment.
Being an introvert is kind of like being your own little one-person party. Which is actually pretty awesome, because we have no problem enjoying ourselves doing countless activities alone. The most important thing to understand about an introvert is that being alone does not equal being lonely.
8. Try single-person exercise.
Take up yoga, Pilates, dance, or any type of activity that is both good for your body and good for your inner introvert. Meditation is not necessarily a workout per se, but it's another way for us to regroup within ourselves and can be just as beneficial health-wise as other single-person exercise.
9. Listen to music.
One of the easiest ways to recharge, even if you are surrounded by people, is by listening to music. It can be done anywhere and it's a way to shut out all of the external factors that tend to stress out introverts. Commuting, shopping, exercising, traveling are all things I simply don't enjoy unless I have my headphones in; introverts can use this time to recharge while giving off a not-so-subtle signal to other people that they want to be left alone. Just hope they take the hint!
10. Clean the house.
To be completely honest, cleaning the house is one of the most effective ways for me to completely recharge myself. There is something so rejuvenating about being alone and having free reign over your home - one of the most cherished spaces for an introvert. I love to turn on music, light some candles, and get completely lost in cleaning the house from top to bottom. It can take hours, but afterward I am not only recharged, but I have a spotless house to show for it. It's a win-win.
11. Be alone with your thoughts.
"Sometimes I am literally just sitting down and taking the weight off my feet while the same thing is metaphorically going on in my brain," said Quora user Michael Peacock. "It might mean taking an hour or longer to take off my shoes and socks at the end of the day because I'm too busy thinking . . . stuff. And then on the other end; when I'm putting my socks on and getting ready to public; I'm rehearsing in my mind the people I will or might see and the kinds of conversations I will be expected to have with them. Sometimes that takes inordinately long, too."
Being alone in this case means potentially even avoiding TV and definitely social media, which can both add to internal clutter that wears us out. Sometimes (well, often, actually) we just need a mental break so that we can come back with a fresh perspective and the energy we need to interact with people again. It's just how we work!
13 Unscented Lotions That Guarantee Winter Skin Survival
We all want soft skin, but it shouldn't come at the cost of a heavy body lotion clashing with your favorite fragrence. Those with sensitive skin are presented with an even bigger challenge since scented lotions tend to pack harmful ingredients that enhance the smell but can cause irritation. Whether it be a luxe designer product or drugstore favorite, a moisturizing skin care cream doesn't have to smell sweet. These perfume-free finds for face and body are ideal for every budget and promise to keep your outer layers hydrated.
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 1 Reason Trump Has Made So Many Cameos, According to Matt Damon
One of the truly bizarre parts of life in 2017 is that feeling you get when you're innocently watching a television show or movie and President Donald Trump suddenly appears on screen, well before he was president and well before anyone thought to hold their tongue about the bloviating real estate mogul. From Sex and the City to Home Alone 2, it's one of those things that we should all expect when we consume any entertainment set in New York City but are never quite prepared for. But while the references to Trump are usually very well-placed and timely, it can often feel like his drop-ins are last-minute additions that serve nobody more than Trump himself.
Now, thanks to Matt Damon, we know exactly why those cameos took place. In a revealing interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Damon spoke candidly of using the Trump presidency as inspiration for his role in the George Clooney-helmed Suburbicon. The big real reveal came when the actor was asked if he had ever met the president - the answer was no - and he went on to explain a bit more about the way that Trump interacts with Hollywood.
"The deal was that if you wanted to shoot in one of his buildings, you had to write him in a part," Damon said. "[Director] Martin Brest had to write something in Scent of a Woman - and the whole crew was in on it. You have to waste an hour of your day with a bullsh*t shot: Donald Trump walks in and Al Pacino's like, 'Hello, Mr. Trump!' - you had to call him by name - and then he exits. You waste a little time so that you can get the permit, and then you can cut the scene out. But I guess in Home Alone 2 they left it in."
The moral of this story? Trump has been very concerned with micromanaging his portrayal in the media for far, far longer than the two years since he announced his run for office. And if Hollywood is any indication, there are a lot of ways to deal with it that don't involve giving in to his demands.
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!
12 Dolls That Look Nothing Like Your Childhood Barbie
Dressing up and beautifying our beloved dolls was a huge part of our childhood. While we learned how to primp and pamper from our toys, that devotion to Barbie taught us a lot about society's strict beauty standards (blond hair, blue eyes, hourglass frame). Luckily, a lot has changed since our youth! Not only have we realized those goals were completely unrealistic, but so have toy makers. Many of them have decided to toss the unattainable beauty standards and give dolls a real-girl makeover - something that older women can appreciate and young girls of all shapes, sizes, and colors can truly look up to. When it comes to everything from stretch marks to finally being able to kick off those stiletto heels, these dolls are giving the world something real to play with!
7 Victoria's Secret Angels Share Their Holy Grail Eyebrow Products
Models are not just like us, especially Victoria's Secret Angels. They have muscular lean curves, gorgeous bombshell waves (or natural curls!), and often the lush-est eyebrows. These women don't make the mistake of overplucking; in fact, some of them told us backstage at the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Shanghai that they never even tweeze at all. Keep reading to learn more model-approved brow tips, as well as their go-to grooming products.
See Every Rad Swatch and Shade of Urban Decay's Brand-New '80s Lip Palette
The '80s are back, baby, and we can practically smell the hairspray wafting in the distance. Though the thought of teased hair and highlighter-blue eye shadow may make you cringe, we have a modern take on the over-the-top decade that's sure to make you run for your credit card: Urban Decay's new trio of Vice lipstick palettes.
Inspired by '80s art, each of the palettes prominently features popular artwork by famed American illustrator Patrick Nagel, who's known for his depictions of badass ladies sporting bold lip colors. The lucky three Nagel pieces Urban Decay chose for its palette are "Untitled," "Sunglasses," and "Rio" (as in Duran Duran's "Rio" album cover). How rad is that?! The kits have five lipstick shades each, including both cult and exclusive colors, along with a lip brush and mirror for on-the-go touch-ups.
These iconic palettes will be available for $28 each starting Oct. 23, at varying locations as follows:
- The "Rio" palette will be sold in Ulta Beauty stores and online at Ulta and Urban Decay.
- The "Sunglasses" palette will be available exclusively online at Sephora.
- The "Untitled" palette will be sold at Macy's and online at Macy's and Urban Decay.
They'll only be available for a short time, so set your alarms now to snatch your own as soon as they go on sale. In the meantime, read on to see an up-close look at the compact, artsy lip kits, along with swatches of each of the shades.
Dad's Viral Message About Caring For His 6 Girls While Mom's Away: "I'm Not the Babysitter"
With his wife heading out of town for a work trip, Jeremy Martin-Weber knew that there would be a lot to do in caring for their six children. As Jessica boarded her flight, this Oregon dad thought about who was going to pick up the slack at home and typed an exhaustive list of the responsibilities that would need to be tackled:
Now to figure out who:
- will cook and feed my children?
- will get them to school on time?
- will pick out clothes for our youngest to wear?
- will respect their routines and help hold those boundaries for them?
- will hug them when they need a hug and kiss their bruises, and tend to their scrapes?
- will comfort them with their nightmares and help them go back to sleep?
- will help them with conflict resolution with their siblings?
- will listen to every little detail they want to share about their day?
- will read them a story, encourage them to play outside, or play a game with them?
- will support and encourage my teenage daughters with their feminine 'problems,' and their relationship struggles?
- will model kindness, love, patience, listening, empathy, strength, bravery, and all the good things to them?
Jeremy has a simple solution for this parenting "dilemma," which he shared in a sassy Facebook post dedicated to all those who don't understand a father's role in his kids' lives. "Who is going to do all that stuff while their mom is away? Me. That's who. Because I'm not the babysitter. I'm not just their playmate," he wrote. "I'm their dad. And looking after them and guiding them and caring for them is my responsibility."
Jeremy explained that he loves being a parent to his six girls, even with all of the challenges that come along with it - and as their dad, he's more than capable of dealing with any issues as that may arise.
No the house will not fall apart or be trashed and the kids will not be ruined because dad is in charge. And no, I don't deserve anyone's special praise and adoration because, "Wow! This dad can look after his own kids." I'm just doing what every parent should do, and what moms do every day without praise or adoration. It is enough that the mother of our children and I communicate our appreciation to each other for all the things we do for our family.
Do You Think Women Should Be Paid For Donating Breast Milk?
It's no secret that breast milk is considered the nectar of the gods. After all, it helps keep little ones' immune systems strong and can work wonders for babies who are born premature, which brings us to an important question: should women be paid for donating it?
A recent article in The Atlantic examines whether or not women who donate their breast milk to mothers who can't produce enough (or any milk at all) should be compensated. Make no mistake: that would be a pretty huge deal, given how many women have been turning to milk banks. According to a recent article in The Washington Post:
The percentage of advanced neonatal care hospitals across the country that provide donated breast milk has nearly doubled, from 22 percent in 2011 to nearly 40 percent in 2015, according to an unpublished analysis of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by Maryanne Tigchelaar Perrin, an assistant professor of nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
The rate was even higher - between 65 and 75 percent - for Level 3 and 4 NICUs that serve the smallest, most fragile premature babies.
The US currently has 18 certified milk banks, and that number is expected to increase. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents give preemies donor milk over formula. And according to the Mother's Milk Bank in Austin, 20 percent of neonatal deaths could be prevented by breastfeeding in the first hour of life, which means getting their hands on breast milk is a top priority for new mothers who have newborns in the NICU.
So what could that mean for women with surplus milk on hand? Liquid gold. Prolacta Bioscience, a company with the goal of "standardized human milk-based nutritional products for premature infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)," has already jumped on the trend by paying approved breast milk donors $1 an ounce. And while there are certainly less formal ways to donate your breast milk - like by ringing your friend's doorbell and offering - the FDA warns against feeding babies breast milk from other women without it being properly screened.
We're curious to see if this trend will pick up as more hospitals turn to milk donors in the future. Do you think the donors should be compensated for their generosity?
Cory Booker Has a Plan For Making Weed Legal in the US - Here's Why It Just Might Work
The United States has an incredibly complicated relationship with marijuana. More than half of all drug-related arrests in the US are related to cannabis, and we're not talking about a small number of people. Between 2001 and 2010, there were a staggering 8.2 million marijuana-related arrests, and almost all of them were for mere possession of the drug. This would be understandable if we took a common stand or had a national policy in place, but instead the rules and regulations vary from state to state, from full-on legalization to complete criminalization. As a result, we've got a patchwork of laws across the country that are often murky and always inconsistent. It's a recipe for disaster, and it should come as no surprise that there are millions who have suffered overzealous punishment in the hands of our nation's criminal justice system.
The Plan to Finally Fix Our Pot Problem
New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, however, has a strategy. On Aug. 1, he announced a long-teased piece of legislation: the Marijuana Justice Act.
"Our country's drug laws are badly broken and need to be fixed," Booker said in a statement. "They don't make our communities any safer - instead, they divert critical resources from fighting violent crimes, tear families apart, unfairly impact low-income communities and communities of color, and waste billions in taxpayer dollars each year." The best way to deal with this systemic pattern of damage, therefore, is to stop doing what we're currently doing - and try something else.
How This Law Could Fix Our Broken Drug Policies
What this new act proposes is to completely legalize marijuana on a federal level. This would enable the fair trade and regulation of the drug on the open market. It would also work retroactively, giving individuals who are currently serving prison terms for pot-related crimes the ability to petition a court for a resentencing. Booker emphasizes the particular strain current marijuana laws have put on minority communities. "Descheduling marijuana and applying that change retroactively to people currently serving time for marijuana offenses is a necessary step in correcting this unjust system," he says. "States have so far led the way in reforming our criminal justice system and it's about time the federal government catches up and begins to assert leadership."
The bill doesn't purport to be the answer to all the problems facing America right now. It does not address harder drugs like opiates - which are fueling a nationwide health crisis - but it does look to fix some things we have the ability to change. It also isn't blind to the fact that we need to invest not in the War on Drugs, but in rebuilding the communities most damaged by the failed policies of the past. The bill would hold back criminal justice funding from any state that failed to bring down its incarceration and arrest rate. That funding would then be funneled into a larger national program supporting job training, reentry programs, community center investment and other programs targeting minority communities hardest hit by an unprecedented rise in pot-related criminal arrests.
Why This Particular Bill Matters So Much
Booker isn't the first to concoct radical legislation aimed at turning drug statistics around, but he is certainly the most hopeful. In a Facebook Live video announcing the bill, he spoke to how well the states that have legalized weed are doing, which is a far cry from the current state of affairs on a national level. The senator is well aware that he will face skepticism, pushback, and legal hurdles from those who aren't as sold on the possibilities as he is - including from the extraordinarily marijuana-averse attorney general, Jeff Sessions. But that hasn't deterred Booker, who stated thoughtfully in his video announcement, "I believe the federal government should get out of the illegal marijuana business." And if anyone can do it, it's Cory Booker.
The 4 Pieces of Advice Barack Obama Gave Donald Trump on Inauguration Day
As President Donald Trump prepared to take office on Inauguration Day, Barack Obama quietly vacated the West Wing. But Obama left something behind during his exit: a letter, one that traditionally passes between two presidents as the highest office in the land changes hands. "We just went to the Oval Office and found this beautiful letter from President Obama. It was really very nice of him to do that," Trump bragged to the press several days later, adding, "We won't even tell the press what's in that letter."
On Sept. 2, CNN finally obtained that letter, exclusively. The missive is a reminder of the grace and well-spoken nature of the 44th president and a testament to the time he spent reflecting on the state of the union. Most notable, however, are the incredibly astute pieces of advice that Obama wanted to pass on to the new commander-in-chief. From a tip on leadership to a reminder about the importance of those you surround yourself with, the gracious "reflections" feel like a stolen moment between two incredibly powerful men.
Below you'll find the four items Obama put forth to Trump in the note he left on the Resolute desk of the Oval Office.
Remember those less fortunate than yourself.
"We've both been blessed, in different ways, with great good fortune. Not everyone is so lucky. It's up to us to do everything we can (to) build more ladders of success for every child and family that's willing to work hard."
Lead by example, and lead the world.
"American leadership in this world really is indispensable. It's up to us, through action and example, to sustain the international order that's expanded steadily since the end of the Cold War, and upon which our own wealth and safety depend."
Protect the American democracy and its institutions.
"We are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions - like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties - that our forebears fought and bled for. Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them."
Spend time with your loved ones.
"Take time, in the rush of events and responsibilities, for friends and family. They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches."
An Evil Genius Swapped Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un's Hair and We Can't Look Away
President Donald Trump and North Korea's Kim Jong-un may be dominating the news right now with a looming threat of all-out war, but it certainly isn't keeping the internet from poking a bit of fun at the two superpowerful men. And if the above photo is any indication, the games have just begun.
A Reddit user posted a diptych of Trump and Jong-un with their hair meticulously swapped on Aug. 10, coinciding with the publication of French magazine Libération's take on the very same idea, and it features an outstandingly blond, Trump-ified version of the North Korean leader. The emergence of these memes is in line with a larger trend of face swapping and hair swapping the men and women we see on TV all the time, which began in earnest in the lead-up to the 2012 election and has evolved as the years have progressed. Here, we see the natural evolution of the swap: making everyone - and everything - look like our wispy-haired, strangely-colored president.
It's only a matter of time before we get a Trump face swap Snapchat filter, but until then, you can work your own magic online in the Trump's Hair tool. And if you're anything like us, you'll be gazing at this downright terrifying yet unbearably fascinating photo all day long.
11 Slang Terms to Memorize If You Want to Stay Cool
Tumblr, YouTube, and Twitter have been leading the slang game recently. "Snatched" is officially the new "fleek," "sis" is the new "bro," and adding "boots" to the end of any adjective is totally a thing. Read on to learn all the new slang words the cool kids on the Internet are using.
Remote Productivity: How to Stay Focused While Working From Home
As I've stated before, like it or not, the workplace is changing. As millennials continue to place value on experiences and express a need for work/life balance, we will see more of the disappearance of the traditional 9-to-5 office setting. Instead, you will see many instances where employees are given the option to work from home or remotely. You'll also see that many will opt for not working with just one company, but instead working with multiple companies in what everyone is calling the gig economy. This new way of working can be a gift and a curse because, on one hand, you have freedom and are not stuck to an office. On the other hand, this newfound freedom may decrease your productivity. So how do you stay focused while working remotely? The following are my top five tips:
1. Show Gratitude
Oddly enough, the work environment puts you in the mood to work. Because of the structure and design, most people don't have to convince themselves to start their work once they're in the office. When working remotely, it may be a little more difficult to set the right mood, especially if you would rather be doing something else. Make sure that you are not in the "I wish I didn't have to work" mindset. Start the day by showing gratitude in general for waking up, for your health, and for your ability to bring in an income. Exercise if you can, build up your endorphins, have a hearty breakfast, quiet your mind, meditate, or pray. Getting you into the attitude of gratitude helps alleviate the risk of being unmotivated and uninspired.
2. Set and Stick to a Schedule
Since you are not confined to traditional hours or a traditional office, make sure you don't just wing it. Time goes by really fast, so if you don't structure your time accordingly, you can look up and not have accomplished much. It is important that you set and stick to a schedule. Whether you decide to work eight hours straight through or break it up into different segments of the day, it is important that whatever time you have allocated for work is dedicated to just that . . . work! Make sure that your work schedule matches with your natural schedule as well. If you do your best work in the morning, set up work time to coincide with this. If you work better at night, allow your schedule to fit accordingly.
3. Remove Unnecessary Distraction
As a society that feels that it needs to be plugged in at all times, it's easy to lose focus on social media, picking up the latest headlines, or simply interacting with your Facebook friends. That's why it's important to turn off your phone when you need to work without distraction. Create a schedule for when you will check your email. Shut off any notifications you have on your phone or computer to assure that something unimportant doesn't sidetrack you. If possible, shut off the internet. Removing unnecessary distractions will allow you to stay focused and productive while working remotely.
4. Choose Your Music Wisely
Your mood can be influenced by many things: TV, the weather, and what you ate for breakfast are just some examples. Music also has a big influence on how you feel. If you decide to listen to tunes as you work, make sure that you choose sounds that are uplifting and keep you positive.
5. Set Boundaries For Your Family and Friends
Make sure that you are not scheduling your work time around social or family obligations. However, also make sure that you are setting boundaries for your family and friends so that they do not become an obstacle to your work productivity. Letting your family and friends know your work schedule is imperative to avoiding any conflict or temptation.
What Is the Healthiest Drive-Through Option? Let's Take a Look
We have somewhat of an obsession with finding the healthiest foods we can at some of the less-healthy restaurants around - maybe we just like to see the glass half full, or maybe we're trying to make the best of a bad situation. Either way, we've had some fun making a healthy eating guide for McDonald's, Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, Wendy's, Chick-Fil-A, and more.
Looking for things like high-protein, lower calorie options were priorities on our list and also making sure there's more than just one or two healthier items, not just "side salad."
And while Starbucks was a top contender for healthiest drive-through, we wanted to keep this list to classic fast food (side note, if you do have a Starbucks drive-through and that's one of your few options, definitely check out its hearty veggie bowls or bistro boxes). Among the burgers, fries, tacos, and fried chicken, was there a beacon of hope? Which is your best option on the road?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Taco Bell was victorious in our health quest. With nearly 6 million vegetarian combinations, Cantina Power Bowls, and very high-protein options, the Bell truly did think outside the bun and delivered a pretty trustworthy menu for those of you trying to eat lighter, leaner, or meatless.
In addition to that extensive vegetarian menu and its lighter, dairy-free, Fresco-style ordering, it's also got a good number of gluten-free options like black beans, Cantina Power Bowls, steak or chicken nachos, and hash browns.
While we won't go around touting that Taco Bell is the new Whole Foods, know that if you're road tripping or have limited options on the go that it's a safe bet for eating healthier. The only decision you have to make now is, are you getting a spicy tostada or a chicken soft taco?
This 2013 Beats by Dre Commercial Starring Colin Kaepernick Is Eerily Prescient
Back in 2013, Donald Trump was just a reality TV host and Colin Kaepernick was a rising star in the NFL and one of the athletes featured in a national ad campaign for Beats by Dre. Less than five years later, Trump is our commander-in-chief - and Kaepernick is a free agent without a team to call home, has no corporate sponsors, and is the latest target of the president's ire.
On Sept. 22, Trump decided to move away from his ongoing feud with North Korea and embarked on a new campaign: getting the NFL to blacklist players like Kaepernick, who famously protested racial inequality and police brutality by taking a knee during the national anthem last year. "Wouldn't you love to see one of these NFL owners - when somebody disrespects our flag - to say, 'Get that son of a b*tch off the field right now,'" Trump ranted at a public rally, adding, "Out. He's fired. He's fired!"
The events that unfolded in the three days following the initial comment felt oddly displaced in time, a set of events that was rehashed by the president with seemingly only one goal in mind: to create drama. Trump continued to rage against Kaepernick, NFL officials and leaders, and even an NBA player (Steph Curry) as the weekend progressed, never once letting up or listening to reason. But what Trump appeared not to realize is that Kaepernick is a model of American resiliency - and that he had little to no chance of getting the public at large to join him in the fight.
Case in point: that 2013 Beats commercial. As quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Kaepernick was depicted as using his headphones to block out the unwanted noise of angry, protesting Seattle Seahawks fans as he entered a stadium to play the team. The angry energy seems to roll right off his back as he walks with his head held high through the parking lot, completely ignoring the hate speech and random objects that are thrown in his direction. It's an eerily prescient vision of the saga that Kaepernick has now found himself at the center of and a truly breathtaking thing to watch several years after it first aired.
What can we take away from all this? Kaepernick has never folded under the pressure of angry fans or detractors, and that's something our president really ought to take a lesson from - and maybe, next time, he'll pick his battles more wisely. Above, watch the ad in full - but remember to remind yourself that time is not, in fact, a flat circle . . . regardless of how much it may feel that way sometimes.
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