Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mercredi 27 décembre 2017
These Are the Chores Your Child Should Be Doing This Year Based on Their Age
If you're a mama who feels like she's doing literally everything around the house, including picking up after your very capable kids, we know how you feel. It makes some parents feel guilty to give their children mundane responsibilities like taking out the garbage, and some moms follow the "if I do it, it'll get done faster and better" mode of thinking. But the truth is, our children can - and probably should - handle more than we think.
We're not suggesting you turn your child into a regular Mrs. Doubtfire, but there are a bunch of tasks around the house that can be completed by children based on their age. If you're looking to set your kiddos up with a chore chart to help them learn about hard work and having responsibilities, there's something every child can help with.
Scroll through for a list of manageable household chores for kids based on their age.
20 Must-Have Classic Children's Books - and When to Introduce Them
It's never too early to start introducing your children to the classics - the kiddie classics, that is. We've rounded up 20 timeless children's books that are musts in every literary kid's library. From titles just for babes and toddlers like Goodnight Moon and Are You My Mother? to books that have been sparking the imaginations of older children for decades, these books are as relevant and extraordinary now as they were when you first read them.
Unique Middle Name Ideas to Set Your Special Baby Apart From the Rest
Once parents have gone through the laborious job of finding the perfect name for their little one, oftentimes the task of finding a unique middle name still remains. The middle name serves many purposes such as honoring a family member, including the mother's maiden name, or serving as a compromise when parents can't agree on a first name. But for parents who want to showcase a more unique side of their personalities, a middle name can be the perfect way to pair a conventional first name with a more unusual middle name to exhibit some individuality. A lot of people also end up going by their middle name, so the decision is just as important as the first name!
Boys
- Flynn
- Ives
- Apollo
- Bodhi
- Orion
- Storm
- Thelonious
- Zeus
- Fox
- Jagger
- Ziggy
- Milo
- Ezra
- Hugo
- Edric
Girls
- Zelda
- Amina
- Chelle
- Meadow
- Paloma
- Calypso
- Artemis
- Fern
- Rain
- Cerise
- Aquilla
- Imogen
- Riona
- Siobhan
- Zorah
Why I Keep My Kids in Their Cribs Past Age 3
A lot of parents dread looking at their baby monitor and seeing a single chubby leg hiked over the top of the crib. Your innocent toddler has concocted a plan to escape and has found the guts to execute it. While you probably chuckle a little at the pure genius forming in your baby's brain, you're mostly concerned that this sly move means sleepless nights and crabby behavior aren't far behind (didn't you JUST get over the newborn sleepless nights?!).
It's totally normal to have that one parenting thing you're neurotic about. Mine is sleep. Without enough sleep, I am a puffy-eyed, mean mommy monster that no amount of coffee can cure. Since the day both of my children were born, I wanted them to be good sleepers. I researched and implemented good sleep practices. With hiccups, and a lot of trial and error, I succeeded.
But when my firstborn neared his third birthday, I received a lot of pressure about when we were going to convert him to a big boy bed. Only, I felt no rush. He was sleeping almost 12 hours a night and taking an hour-and-a-half nap. He was well-rested, and as happy as a 3-year-old boy could be. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," they say. But still, friends and family pressed on, "Why isn't he in a bed?" or "Isn't he a little old for a crib?"
Nope.
I'm glad I stood my ground. When he was 2, he climbed out of his crib. I felt the stress in my shoulders immediately thinking about putting him in a big boy bed. Using my scary mom voice, I told him, "You need to stay in your crib and sleep. You will hurt yourself if you do that again." That little scare tactic worked. He never climbed out again.
My son received his big boy bed at Christmas instead - when he was nearing 4 years old. The transition was effortless. He beamed. He knew he was growing up and now old enough to understand how the sleep game was played. Read a book, go to sleep, stay in your bed until you wake up in the morning. Today, my son is 5 and his little sister is 3. She loves her crib, too. And I plan on leaving her in there a little longer.
I have no idea what I'm doing in this parenting gig. But one thing I do know is that if your kid still snuggles willingly in his crib all night long and doesn't put that chubby leg over the top - don't stress by trying to transition him to a bed. Leave him there. You'll wake up one day and know when it's time, and you'll be really refreshed when you do.
5 Holiday Party Survival Tips For Introverts
If you're an introvert, then the holidays might be your personal hell; between the crowds, forced socialization, and jam-packed event calendar, we're guessing you're just holding on until New Year's Day. So how can an introvert survive the busiest party season of the year? To find out, we consulted the "party whisperer" aka Susan MacTavish Best of Living MacTavish. Check out her introvert party tips below.
Connect With the Host
Susan recommends you lay the groundwork for a successful event long before the actual party takes place. "Reach out to the host prior and let them know you are coming and give them perhaps one or two brief news blurbs from your life. This will help your host introduce you and start conversations about what you're up to with their friends." Intros with easy conversation starters make for easier conversations!
Arrive Early
It sounds counterintuitive, but arriving right as the party starts means you'll have a chance to get settled before the party gets going. You'll naturally fall into conversation with guests as they arrive - and it's much less intimidating than walking into a party when it's full swing and busting with people.
Bring a Wingperson
"Maybe you need a wingperson to aid you and get the conversation started," Susan says. "I have a close friend who just loves a party and loves meeting new people. He'll walk right up to others and introduce himself, and he really enjoys doing this. He is a great wingman." Be sure, however, to check with the host ahead of time that it's OK to bring a plus one.
Be Vulnerable
While we tend to think we'll better attract people by being suave and confident, often the opposite is true. "I think showing a little vulnerability really gets others engaged in what you're saying. It shows you're human and relatable, not trying to show off," Susan explains. So don't be afraid to admit how scared you were before your recent skydiving trip or reveal that embarrassing (but funny) time you got lost riding the subway in Europe.
Have Things to Talk About
Susan reminds you to think beyond the holiday season when it comes to navigating parties as an introvert. "A far more long-term approach: generally leading an interesting life. Even if you're an introvert, parties will be a little easier because you'll have interesting tidbits to share from your life." Her prescription? "Go forth and get out of your day-to-day schedule and explore what the world has to offer."
Dads Take to Twitter With Hilarious Real Talk About Having a #PregnantWife
Although every woman's pregnancy is different, between the hormones, cravings, and mood swings, basically every partner to a pregnant woman will deal with a few of her ups and downs along the way. Luckily for these partners, most of the downs consist of her needing help to tie her shoes or a request for a weird combination of foods at 2 a.m. Luckily for us, dads-to-be in particular have been taking to Twitter with the hashtag #PregnantWife (and #PregnantWifeProblems) to share those (hilarious) moments with the rest of the world.
Whether or not you or your partner has ever been pregnant, these honest and hilarious tweets are going to crack you up. Scroll through for some of our favorites.
11 Trader Joe's Treats That Will Make You the Best Snack Mom Ever
While serving as your kids' professional lunch packer, weekday chauffeur, personal wake-up call, and much, much more, you're often left with little time to prepare them homemade snacks. Luckily, Trader Joe's has healthy, inexpensive, and wildly convenient treats that will surely become greatest hits on your family's grocery list. Here are a few of the best TJ's snacks to feed your kids when afternoon (or any time, really) hunger strikes.
11 Nursing Pajama Sets That Will Make Staying Up All Night Feel Oh So Fine
Most moms know the struggle of having to dress a growing baby bump during pregnancy, but one thing you might not really think about? Postpregnancy pajamas. If you're breastfeeding, you'll want comfy and easy PJ sets that give your baby easy access (since, you know, you're basically a 24-hour milk bar now). So where do you even start when trying to find the best ones? We've got you covered for the overnight shift. Keep reading for 11 nursing-friendly pajama sets, all designed to make your life and your baby's feedings much easier. These are pajamas you'll want to live in - and we won't blame you if you actually do!
Falls on ice seriously injure Albertans at triple the rate of people in Ontario
Albertans are seriously injured by slipping and falling on ice at three times the rate of people in Ontario, according to years' worth of hospitalization data from across the country.
8 Books to Help Parents Survive Toddleritis
Everyone feverishly reads pregnancy books and newborn manuals when getting ready to welcome a new human into the world. While that time period is stressful enough, the hard parenting moments are only just beginning - case in point: toddlers. When your little one falls into the "terrible twos" or the "threenager" phase, you can survive with a lot of three things: humor, wine, and books. There are a lot of techniques (and sage advice) that can be found in parenting books for toddlers that will help you thrive. Keep reading for eight time-tested gems that will help you navigate the world of toddlerhood with more empathy, wisdom, and laughter.
The Sweetest Gender-Neutral Baby Clothes For the New Bundle of Joy in Your Life
If a soon-to-be mama is keeping the gender of her baby hush-hush - or they simply don't want to know until their tiny tot arrives - shopping for that new little cutie can be a bit of a challenge.
If you're struggling to find that picture-perfect onesie or that tiny t-shirt that's just begging to be Instagrammed, look no further. We've rounded up the sweetest gender-neutral finds for the surprise baby on the way.
The 20 Hottest Swimsuits For 2018
Even though we're in the midst of Winter, there's one thing we can't stop daydreaming about: swimwear. As the new year approaches and we're already starting to plan our next vacation, cute new swimwear is starting to pop up from all our favorite brands. So get excited for that warm weather and treat yourself to a chic new piece that will motivate you to book the getaway you've been thinking about. From retro-inspired shapes to polka-dots and stripes, prepare to fall in love with these Instagram-worthy picks. Shop our favorites.
Announcing the 20 Most Stylish Celebrities of 2017
This was an unpredictable year . . . to say the least. But one thing we could always count on in 2017 was our favorite stars coming through with red carpet and street style looks that we could all agree upon.
Whether it was a Hollywood MVP, a surprise newbie, or a certain Titanic singer, these 20 stars delivered plenty of eye candy to sweeten up the last few months. Look back on the boldest moments from this year's best dressed as we reflect on 2017 and anticipate the many stunning dresses, suits, and more to come!
It's Hard to Believe These Stylish Handbags Are Under $200
For most people, the holiday season gives us an excuse to go shopping and buy a new handbag. While we wish we could stock our closets with designer bags, we're often looking for reasonable options that won't break the bank. For that reason, we've curated a list of handbags that are both stylish and reasonably priced. (Who says they can't be both?) Keep reading to have a look at 23 bags so chic, people will have a hard time believing they cost under $200.
The 19 Hottest Heels of 2018 Will Get You in the Mood to Shop
2018 is pulling out all the stops when it comes to statement-making shoes. Designers have really stepped up their game creating unique, head-turning heels. There are so many bold, beautiful options that it's hard to choose. We're seeing plenty of vibrant colors, groundbreaking shapes, and whimsical embellishments. Whether you need a new pair for a night out or to wear every day with jeans, we've got you covered.
It doesn't matter if you want to splurge on an investment shoe or score a deal on a fun pair: we have options for everyone. Take a look at our most coveted picks and treat yourself, then brush up on fresh styling ideas. Your wardrobe deserves it.
Meghan Markle Should Give Every Royal a Lesson on Travel Style
Meghan Markle is a fashion girl who knows how to pack. She's often seen toting only a modest carry-on bag, and given her trips back and forth to London (prior to moving in with Prince Harry), you know she must have a wealth of travel hacks to share. That's why we took a look through her Instagram, which is the equivalent of a travel diary where she documented all the places she has visited and what she wore along the way. Meghan's been to Italy, Madrid, and London (to name a few), and every time she flew, she managed to pack a number of Instagrammable outfits.
She has an eye, and Meghan's royal style is already shaping up to be quite impressive. But before you check out her queen-approved ensembles, dive into her relaxed vacation outfits and the lessons you can steal from them. Perhaps the 'grams ahead will also give a glimpse into what Meghan will wear when she goes on her honeymoon.
When You See Melania Trump's Christmas Dress, You'll Say, "That's Just What She Likes"
Melania and Donald Trump jetted off to Florida to celebrate Christmas, where they first fielded phone calls to track Santa on Christmas Eve and then attended midnight Mass in Palm Beach. For the first occasion, the first lady slipped into a familiar red Dior suit, which she wore in Paris as an homage to the French fashion house. Melania made the outfit pop with a pair of floral Christian Louboutin pumps.
Her evening outfit, chosen by stylist Hervé Pierre, was a custom look, complete with a textured bodice, fluted hem, and silver bead embellishment at the neckline and waist. Melania accessorized with her diamond ring and a pair of patent pumps. If you like the flattering silhouette of the FLOTUS's dress - one she's opted for so many times before - read ahead to scoop up a similar sheath this season.
We Found the Best Veils For Every Type of Bride
Before the wedding planning begins, you'll have to decide on your look. Are you a boho bride? Sporty? Classic and traditional? Every woman getting married has her own idea of how she wants to look and feel on the big day. And just like wedding gowns, no two veils are exactly the same. Some brides might favor a long cathedral option, while others will skip it altogether for a floral crown. It all boils down to your personality and the wedding theme or location. Since there's no one-size-fits-all veil, we rounded up 14 pieces that cater to every type of bride. BHLDN's Senior Stylist Caroline Dilsheimer even offered pro tips on the types of veils [insert your bridal personality] should look for and styling tricks.
Ocean's Eight Is Already Shaping Up to Be the Most Fashionable Film of 2018
With the central action taking place at the Met Gala, there's no way Ocean's Eight won't be a fashionable film. Going off the newly released trailer alone, the highly anticipated spinoff with a nearly all-female cast looks as stylish as it is sly. There's of course the eight main cast members - each with their own unique style - but Ocean's Eight will also feature real-life fashion insiders like Anna Wintour, Kendall Jenner, Alexander Wang, and more. For now, we've gone ahead and analyzed the wardrobes of each of the eight main characters. Shop their styles ahead.
Wow, These 10 Velvet Dresses Are Beyond Gorgeous - All on Amazon For Under $21
We are all about velvet these days. The fabric automatically makes a design look more luxe, and who doesn't want that? If you're on the hunt for a pretty velvet dress, we found some impressive options on Amazon. To make matters even better, they're all very affordable as well. Shop through these enticing options and treat yourself! You can never have enough dresses.
Unleash the Best Version of Yourself in 2018 by Wearing These Flattering Trends
With the end of one year and the start of a new one comes a new batch of trends. While we're happy to get rid of some of the more unforgiving pieces in our closet (while silently wondering how we ever wore them), it's time to create space for more memorable, flattering trends. From a borrowed-from-the-boys look to paper-bag trousers, we're counting down 11 amazing trends that will no doubt make you feel more confident in your skin. Read on to have a look at 2018's most flattering trends.
Someone Please Give Tracee Ellis Ross an Award For All Her Major Style Moments in 2017
In case you haven't noticed, Tracee Ellis Ross had a freaking great year in fashion. She first caught our attention at the 2017 Golden Globes with her rings and fierce red carpet poses, and from that moment on, it seemed the fashion girl in her took over. She followed up with more impressive outfits, including this stunning Chanel feathered ensemble, and launched a limited-edition holiday capsule with JCPenney. Tracee even has an ongoing hashtag (#thegirlwholovestoshop) to track her outfit photos on the 'gram. If that's not a sign that she's a true fashion girl, we don't know what is.
Of course, Tracee works with stylist Karla Welch on coming up with some of the looks we've seen, but we don't doubt the star's own fashion expertise. Tracee has styled herself on several occasions, and really, no one can teach Tracee how to pose for the camera. She's got that down to an exact science. If you're not sure what we mean, read on to see the star's major style moments from this year and the lessons we've learned from her.
Khloé Kardashian's Pregnant, but We Can't Rest Until She Addresses That Diamond Ring
Khloé Kardashian officially confirmed her pregnancy news with a black-and-white snap on Instagram, causing her fans to tweet, comment, and double tap with excitement. The big reveal was slightly unexpected - a close-up of Khloé's belly cradled by boyfriend Tristan Thompson, complete with a little brand love too. Khloé was wearing a Calvin Klein sports bra ($28) in the photo. Her only accessory was a set of diamond bands worn on her left ring finger - but she's been wearing these for a few months now, and it appears she owns a stack of three.
Whether these are promise rings from Tristan, engagement jewelry, or just some bling Khloé feels most comfortable wearing on her left hand, they're causing a buzz, and everyone wants to know the story behind them. If you're familiar with the way the Kardashians release news - right when you least expect it - Khloé has probably offered the world her fair share of headlines for now. But that doesn't mean you can't zoom in on these baubles and shop similar designs in the meantime, right?
15 Unbelievable Items From Nordstrom's Designer Sale That Are Too Good to Miss
The end of the year is one of the best times to shop because so many stores and brands are ready to get rid of their old inventory and bring in the new. That means they slash their prices to all-time lows. There's no better feeling than scoring a great deal, so this season, treat yourself to a few items you deserve. Nordstrom carries so many popular brands, and many of them just went on sale. From Rag & Bone to Alexander Wang, and even Miu Miu, check out these hot picks. Shop before they're gone.
13 Powerful Women Whose Style Has Defined 2017
Power dressing is no easy feat. Over the past year, we've seen some of our favorite women of power, like Queen Rania of Jordan and Kate Middleton, take center stage with their bold outfit choices. Whether they're wearing structured suits or jaw-dropping dresses on the red carpet, there's no denying that these are the 13 women whose style has defined 2017.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen Twinned With Matching Mini Handbags - How Perfect Is That?
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are their brand's proudest advocates, and they wear pieces from The Row whenever they can. The stylish duo were seen at an event in New York for the launch of fashion-blogger Colby Jordan's website, Minnie Muse. For the celebration, the Olsen twins stayed true to their boho aesthetic, with Mary-Kate wearing a long, black coat with wooden platforms and Ashley opting for an oversize suit and stilettos.
While their outfits were on point as usual, we couldn't help staring at their adorable top-handle bags from The Row. Mary-Kate finished off her look with a fuzzy brown bag, while Ashley carried a black python iteration of the same bag. Keep reading to have a glimpse at their full ensembles and buy their exact bags, as well as similar ones, for your closet.
Has Meghan Markle Already Shown Us What Her Wedding Bouquet Will Look Like? An Investigation
We're still reeling over Meghan Markle's one-of-a-kind engagement ring from Prince Harry. With everyone trying to find out as much as they can about the upcoming wedding, we figured we'd do a little digging to find out the answer to one of our burning questions: what will Meghan's wedding bouquet look like?
As it turns out, we actually have a pretty good idea about which type of flower Meghan might choose because she's been hinting at it for years. Meghan has posted tons of pictures of fresh-cut peonies (one bouquet was from around the time she and Prince Harry started dating), and we have a feeling the soon-to-be royal might choose her favorite flower for her big day. Keep reading to have a look at all of the times Meghan has been inspired by peonies to decide for yourself.
I Just Bought This Popular Rag & Bone Boot on Sale For 50 Percent Off - Seriously
I'm a total sucker for ankle boots, especially a good quality suede pair. For over a year I've had my eye on this slip-on chelsea Rag & Bone Walker Boot ($240, originally $475). I was never able to make the jump because the price was just a little too high for me.
After seeing my coworker wear these recently, it reminded me how much I loved them. She told me she had just bought them for for 50 percent off, and I knew I needed to act. I contained my excitement, hoped they were still on sale, and quickly ran back to my desk. They had my size in stock, so I purchased them immediately. I had also recently signed up to receive the brand's email promotions, which gave me a 15 percent off coupon for my first purchase - this was the ideal time to use it. After applying my promo code, the total came to $204, a deal I never thought I would get.
As soon as the boots arrived, I slipped them on. The charcoal-colored suede was just as beautiful as I imagined, and they matched with everything from tights and skirts to my ripped jeans. The heel height was perfect, and I didn't have to break them in; they were immediately comfortable for my daily walking commute.
Shop this deal before it's gone! This navy ($240, originally $475) and rustic red ($240, originally $475) shade is also on sale.
Here's the Actual Footage of the Moments You See in I, Tonya
With less than a week in theaters, I, Tonya is already an award season force to be reckoned with. Coming off a smashing box office opening, the film has already received three Golden Globe nominations and five Critics' Choice nods. It's an exceptional film in many ways: it bends cinematic rules by breaking the fourth wall, it boasts an electrifying soundtrack and dazzling performances . . . and it gives a beguiling spin on the most contentious scandal in US figure-skating history.
The question in a situation like this, of course, is how much of I, Tonya can we really trust? Well, if you look back on the news coverage and other footage from the time, it's pretty clear how closely the film attempts to hew to reality. So, pushing aside the moments that might contain a dash of creative license, these scenes seem to really bring the story to life in a fantastic and realistic way.
10 Famous New Year's Eve Movie Kisses That Left You Weak in the Knees
As a holiday, New Year's Eve hinges almost entirely around two things: drinking a dangerous amount of Champagne and sharing an insanely romantic kiss with someone at midnight. While getting an Instagram-worthy smooch doesn't always happen in real life, Hollywood definitely knows how to nail it. Keep reading to see every New Year's Eve kiss on the big screen that never fails to leave us swooning, and check out the best movie kisses of 2015!
Grab a Cold Towel and Feast Your Eyes on the Sexiest, Steamiest Celebrity Selfies of the Year
Every year, celebrities treat us to a bevy of sexy photos, and they get hotter and hotter with each year that passes by. Whether it's a sizzling bikini snap or an NSFW shot, there's no telling how far a star will go for the perfect selfie. Keep reading to see the hottest celebrity selfies of 2017.
Meet the 29 Women Competing For Arie Luyendyk Jr.'s Heart on The Bachelor
The contestants for Arie Luyendyk Jr.'s season of The Bachelor have finally been unveiled! The 29 women vying for the heart of the 36-year-old race car driver - who was actually the runner-up during Emily Maynard's season on The Bachelorette - include women from Los Angeles, CA, to Weiner, AR (yes, Weiner) (yes, I'm immature). Keep reading to see who made the cut before the show returns on Jan. 1!
24 Movies That Turned 20 Years Old This Year
Now that 2017 has (thankfully) almost come to an end, it's time to reminisce. But instead of reminiscing on this garbage year, let's go back to the '90s, when everything was way more fun and carefree. In 1997, a surprising amount of iconic films came out. Remember all of Brendan Fraser's shirtless glory in George of the Jungle? One of Robin Williams's most memorable roles in Good Will Hunting? All that heartbreak from Titanic? All of that definitely turned 20 this year. And that's just the tip of the iceberg . . . pun intended.
23 Books Becoming Movies in 2018
2018 is the release year for a lot of book-to-movie adaptations, and there are a ton of novels we loved that will make it onto the big screen. Highly anticipated films include Where'd You Go, Bernadette, A Wrinkle in Time, and, of course, Fifty Shades Freed! Until these are out, check out what books are getting adapted in 2017. For now, you have plenty of time to read the following books before they're big movies!
20 Recipes That Will Make You Want to Get an Instant Pot ASAP
Chances are you've been seeing Instant Pot recipes all over the internet lately. If you're scratching your head wondering what exactly that means or if an instant pot is the same thing as a slow cooker, allow this beginner breakdown to help. The Instant Pot is a countertop cooking tool that's like a cross between a pressure cooker, a slow cooker, and a sauté pan. According to its description, it's a "multi-cooker, capable of replacing a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker/porridge maker, sauté/browning pan, steamer, yogurt maker, and stockpot warmer."
Plenty of bloggers and cooks are fans of the Instant Pot and have figured out how to make chicken, soups, rice, and even cheesecake in the appliance. If you're curious about experimenting with an Instant Pot - and potentially replacing your slow cooker - read ahead for more recipes to start with.
30 Badass Female Tattoo Artists to Follow on Instagram ASAP
If the sight of dainty body art sets your heart aflutter with the desire to get inked, then you're probably already following a few tattoo artists on social media. But finding the perfect source of inspiration for your next tat can be daunting, especially since it'll be on your body forever and there are so many styles to choose from.
A permanent piece of body art is worth traveling across the world for, so we've curated a look at the very best female artists in the business. Whether you're looking for minimalist floral pieces or geometric designs, these talented ladies are the best the world has to offer. So give them a follow and start planning your next piece; few accessories are lovelier than a well-done tattoo.
A New Harry Potter Game Will Let Us Live Out Our Hogwarts Dreams in 2018
On Dec. 12, a little over a month after we found out that there would be an augmented reality-based Harry Potter game coming next year, we got the long-awaited, much-desired (and superexciting!) news that Harry Potter fans everywhere have been waiting on for years: 2018 will also be the year in which we finally get a Hogwarts-based game. That's right: soon, we'll be able to inhabit the world of a student at the beloved academy . . . all thanks to the forthcoming Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery.
Games studio Jam City and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's Portkey Games (the unit devoted exclusively to experiences based on J.K. Rowling's wizarding world) are partnering to create the role-playing game for our mobile devices, and it will allow fans old and young to enter the world that we've so long experienced from the outside. And what exactly should we expect from the game? Well, it's still very early days, but according to the press release heralding the announcement:
"The new game lets Harry Potter fans live the dream of becoming a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry by creating their own character and progressing through their years at Hogwarts. Along the way, players will participate in all of the magical classes and activities they have come to love - like Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Dueling Club, and more. Most of the iconic professors from the Harry Potter stories reprise their roles in the game."
The release date for Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery has not yet been announced, but you can bet that the second we hear anything concrete, we'll be shouting it from the rooftops. And let's not forget that this new development means that we will now, officially, have TWO Harry Potter games coming our way next year. And that, my friends, is a very good reason to look forward to 2018.
Yo, Amazon Prime Has Insanely Cheap Workout Clothes (and They're Actually Really Cute)
Got an Amazon Prime membership? You're likely using it for your favorite household goods, books, and video streaming - but did you know you can get amazing workout clothes for anything from Pilates to yoga to running? They even have iconic brands you already love, like Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas. And getting the right color and size combo can mean saving hundreds of dollars - we're talking $9 tops, $12 leggings, and $11 sports bras. Check it out!
32 Vegan Lunches You Can Take to Work
Whether you follow the "vegan before 6 p.m." routine, you're taking a Beyoncé-like vegan challenge, or you're animal-free through and through, it seems like more and more of us have tried a vegan diet. While going vegan may take a bit more thought and effort than an unrestricted diet, with a little preplanning - like checking ingredients in store-bought breads and stocking up on vegan pantry essentials - you can still enjoy delicious, exciting meals no matter what time of day. To start your workweek, we've found 32 tasty and creative vegan lunches that are perfect for brown-bagging to work. Click through for the recipes!
10 Toxic Ingredients Pregnant Women Should Never Use in Their Beauty Routines
The average adult uses nine personal care products every day. If I think about my own beauty routine, it adds up to much more. In the shower alone I use a face wash, body wash, exfoliator, shampoo, and conditioner. Once I'm out, the lotions, face creams, sunscreen, perfume, hair products, and makeup come into play. I can't even seem to choose just one lip color, instead opting to blend a few to get the perfect shade.
It often takes the responsibility of growing another life for us to take a serious look at our personal care products.
Does that sound familiar? Unfortunately, there are potentially toxic chemicals hiding in our makeup, sunscreen, skincare products, and everything else we slather on. The risks associated with each are potentially more hazardous for pregnant women - which is why it often takes the responsibility of growing another life for us to take a serious look at our personal care products.
"We should avoid risky ingredients at all stages of our lives," said Paul Pestano, a senior database analyst for the Environmental Working Group, an organization that researches and educates consumers about toxins in personal care products. "However, pregnancy may be a period in which women should be particularly careful."
Pestano notes that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine warn that exposure to toxic chemicals before conception and during pregnancy can have significant and long-lasting effects on reproductive health. Problems can include infertility, low birth weight, and preterm birth.
EWG suggests that pregnant women try to minimize their exposure to all ingredients that have been associated with adverse health effects, especially those known as endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors can interfere with the body's normal hormone functions and potentially affect the development of the unborn child.
Luckily, there are quality brands out there making nontoxic cosmetics. As a pregnant woman myself, I find it's easier to make responsible choices if I understand the reasons behind each warning. So I decided to do some research into the cosmetic ingredients I should avoid. I spoke to Tata Harper, the founder of her own safe and natural skincare line, and Gregg Renfrew, the founder of Beautycounter, which bans more than 1,500 questionable or harmful chemicals from its products.
If you're expecting, too, here is a list of the ingredients, where you're likely to find them, and an explanation of why they are potentially harmful. And don't worry, you won't have to go cosmetics-free for nine months - I also have some recommendations for safe options you can turn to.
13 Best Daily Habits For Losing Weight
Losing weight doesn't happen overnight. It's the result of lots of little decisions and choices that all add up, and it's something you need to think about every day. So keep these daily habits in mind that will make losing weight feel easier and less like a chore.
11 Modifications You Didn't Know You Could Make at Starbucks
Whether you're more of an iced-coffee or grande-nonfat-mocha-no-whip type of Starbucks customer, there are easy ways to customize your drink to match your preference. While you might not find these modifications on the menu, that doesn't mean you can't make them at the register. Here's what to keep in mind the next time you find yourself in line at Starbucks and want a drink that's specifically tailored to your needs.
- Ask for light ice.
Not enough liquid and too much ice in your drink? Ask for light ice next time and you'll get more of the drink itself. - Order your latte extra hot.
Ever feel like your hot coffee is cold by the time you get to the office? You can order your latte "extra hot" at the register, and the barista will steam the milk longer to increase the temperature. - Specify unsweetened.
Certain Starbucks drinks are sneakily sweetened, including the iced coffee, iced teas, and the Green Tea Latte. For example, Starbucks's matcha powder contains sugar, and the Green Tea Latte typically has more sugar added to it. The iced coffee already comes with two pumps of Classic, aka simple syrup, so if you order it with two pumps, you're actually getting four. The default for a tall iced tea drink is three pumps of classic. If you'd rather have unsweetened drinks, be sure to specify that when you order. - Customize your milk preference.
ICYMI, Starbucks has almond milk and coconut milk! There's also soy milk as another dairy-free option. Starbucks uses 2 percent milk in all drinks unless you specify otherwise, so speak up if you want whole milk, nonfat, or plant-based milk. - Order a tall coffee in a grande cup.
Certain baristas might discourage this, but it's a common thing to order. To avoid wasting coffee by pouring out enough for milk, just order a smaller size coffee in a cup the next size up. This will give you more space than asking for "room." - Order the "short" size.
Did you know a size smaller than the tall exists at Starbucks? While not listed on most menus, there is a size called the short, which is eight ounces and costs $2 for a drip coffee. - Ask for no water for a stronger tea flavor.
Starbucks adds water to the cup of any iced tea drink to dilute it, so ask for no water if you want a stronger flavor. - Ask for an extra shot.
Tall lattes come with one shot of espresso, grande espresso drinks come with two, and venti drinks come with two (hot) or three (iced). If it's just one of those days and you need an extra boost of caffeine, you can add another shot to any drink for 60 cents. - Specify the number of syrup pumps.
When you order any drink that comes with a syrup flavor, a tall will have three, a grande will have four, and a venti will have five or six, depending on hot or iced, respectively. You can either add more for no extra cost or ask for fewer pumps if you want it less sweet. - Ask for a different kind of sweetener.
You can ask for syrups, sugar, raw sugar, honey, Sweet and Low, Equal, or Splenda in any drink. You can also inquire about the sugar-free syrup options, like raspberry and vanilla, as well as the seasonal syrup options like peppermint. - Order hot tea over ice.
If you're in the mood for a green tea or herbal tea but would rather have it cold than hot, you can ask for it served on ice. The barista will steep the tea and pour it in a plastic cup filled with ice, which takes about five minutes.
31 Stars Who Made Us Feel Great About Turning 40 This Year
If you're one of the many people who turned the big 4-0 this year, you're not alone. This Is Us costars Milo Ventimiglia and Justin Hartley both hit the big milestone this year, as well as musicians Kanye West and Chris Martin. In addition to sharing the same birthday, John Cena and Kal Penn also turned 40 along with Tom Brady, Jessica Chastain, and Liv Tyler. If we didn't know any better, we'd say these stars have found the fountain of youth.
15 Easy Breakfast Prep Ideas to Help Set Up Your Entire Week
If you want to be healthy or lose weight, breakfast is key - even science says so. The thing is, there aren't a lot of people who have time to make a filling and nutritious meal during the week. That's where meal prepping comes in; just set aside a little time in the evening to get your ingredients together, and you'll have a healthy breakfast ready to go for the entire week.
Mark Hamill Has Some Thoughts About The Last Jedi's Ending: "He's Not My Luke Skywalker"
Since the premiere of Star Wars: The Last Jedi on Dec. 15, the reaction from passionate fans has been split. Despite featuring an interesting relationship between Rey and Kylo Ren, and the fact it's the most feminist and diverse entry into the franchise, Luke Skywalker's journey in the movie has been pretty divisive. So much so that a pretty savage petition to remove The Last Jedi from the official canon has been signed by over 46,000 people. If you're one of them, there's someone out there who might agree with your choice: Mark Hamill.
The actor, who originated the role of Luke in 1977's A New Hope, revealed in a recent interview clip that he's not the biggest fan of how the iconic Jedi's story wraps up. Apparently it's something he and director Rian Johnson could never agree on and Hamill considers The Last Jedi's take on the character "not my Luke Skywalker."
"I said to Rian, I said 'Jedis don't give up'," he explained. "I mean even if he had a problem, maybe take a year to try and regroup . . . but if he made a mistake he would try and right that wrong."
Still, Hamill was quick to note that he supports Johnson every step of the way, even if they had a fundamental disagreement about Luke: "I still haven't accepted it completely, but it's only a movie. I hope people like it, I hope they don't get upset, and I came to really believe that Rian was the exact man that they needed for this job."
To Maximize Fat Loss and Muscle Gains, Follow the 10 Commandments of Weightlifting
You have your sights set on booty gains! Or a six-pack. Or chiseled arms of steel. You've heard so much about how weightlifting is a must, and you're finally ready (although a little nervous) to get your hands on a barbell. If this sounds familiar, follow these 10 rules to make weightlifting fun, burn the most fat, reap muscle gains faster, and prevent getting hurt.
1. Thou Shalt Use Proper Form
Whether you work with a personal trainer or take a class, proper form is the absolute most important thing when lifting weights. Proper form ensures that you're not only doing the moves correctly to get the most out of them, but also lifting the most amount of weight you can, which will make you stronger, faster. Proper form will also prevent injuries that could sideline you from the gym. Whether exercises are old or new, have someone critique your form, perform in front of a mirror, or take a video so you can check form for yourself.
2. Thou Shalt Commit to Three Times a Week
Three times a week is the minimum amount of days you should strength train if you're focusing on total-body moves during those sessions. If you like working one part of the body at a time, fitness instructor John Kersbergen says to aim for three to five sessions per week. The same with running, cycling, or dancing - the more you do it, the better you'll get at it.
3. Thou Shalt Work All Parts of the Body
Maybe you're all about growing your booty, but that doesn't mean you should forget about your arms! Or your back, or your abs, or your legs. Your sessions should address all parts of your body. Lucky for you, moves like thrusters, deadlifts, and overhead squats work multiple parts of the body, so they're great to do if you're short on time.
4. Thou Shalt Use a Variety of Equipment
Barbells are essential for lifting heavy and doing basic, effective moves like squats and deadlifts, but they're not the only piece of equipment in the weightlifting sea. Explore using dumbbells, kettlebells, medicine balls, and machines if you have access to them. You can also use other types of equipment, like pull-up bars and rings, for moves that involve your own bodyweight. Or use weights in conjunction with a box or resistance bands for a double whammy.
5. Thou Shalt Perform a Variety of Exercises
The basic squat may be the perfect, basic move to target your legs and butt, but don't forget about other moves that work your lower body, like squat variations, lunge variations, hip thrusts, and step-ups. Make a point to try one new move every week to challenge your muscles in different ways, which will make them stronger and prevent weightlifting burnout.
6. Thou Shalt Push Thyself
Don't worry about getting bulky! Women have way less testosterone than men, so it's impossible for us to get huge muscles, unless we train for hours and hours a day and take extreme supplements. That means you can push yourself to lift heavy - that's where you'll see the fastest results when it comes to losing body fat and gaining muscle. Record your progress in a notebook and celebrate every time you hit a new PR (personal record).
7. Thou Shalt Not Eat Like Crap
While weightlifting burns calories and puts on calorie-burning muscle, if you eat unhealthy foods or too many calories a day, you won't be able to perform your best, and you could end up gaining fat instead of losing it. Exercising once a day doesn't give you the liberty to go nuts in the kitchen, so make sure you're still keeping tabs on your diet, whether you prefer tracking your portions or your macros. If you keep in mind that you can't out-train a bad diet and that food is fueling your workouts, it'll inspire you to stay on track.
8. Thou Shalt Take Rest Days
Weightlifting technically doesn't build muscle; it tears up your muscle fibers - it's the rest days that help them repair and get stronger. So rest days are essential! A beginner may need three rest days, while a more experienced lifter may only need one per week. Rest days don't have to mean sitting on your butt binging on Netflix. Do active recovery, like going for a walk or taking a yoga class.
9. Thou Shalt Not Give Up Cardio
If you're trying to decrease your body-fat percentage, cardio is still a must to burn more calories and offer faster results. Huffing and puffing is also essential for the health of your heart and brain, so include cardio a few times a week as a complement to your strength-training sessions (sorry if you hate it!).
10. Thou Shalt Stretch and Foam Roll
After all your hard work pumping iron, take time to take care of your newborn baby muscles. Stretch, foam roll, and massage - make this a priority so your muscles will heal well and avoid injury.
2018 Movie Trailers You Have to See
2018 is already bringing with it a buzzy slate of films. Now that December is upon us, the new year's movie trailers are beginning to roll in. From Fifty Shades Freed to A Wrinkle in Time and Black Panther, there appears to be a movie for everyone (James Corden is even voicing a modernized Peter Rabbit to delight your kiddos). Sadly, some studios are set on making fans wait for a glimpse of the blockbusters awaiting them in their future, but others are already offering up the goods. And trust us, some of these movies look really good.
Watching the trailers, you'll notice a few themes are already beginning to emerge. The best one is that women are about to rule the box office. Natalie Portman, Alicia Vikander, and Taraji P. Henson are just a few of the actors headlining movies about ladies kicking butt next year. If the first batch of 2018 movie trailers is any indication of what's to come, you should plan on spending a whole lot of time at your local theater in the coming months.
Super Mario Odyssey Is Everything We Ever Wanted in a Video Game
In the nearly four decades since Mario first made his appearance in the original arcade version of Donkey Kong, Nintendo's beloved mustachioed protagonist has certainly had his share of ups and downs. Not every game that stars the iconic Mario Bros. characters is worthy of the legacy brand, and for the most part, an average release typically doesn't have the staying power of legends like Super Mario Bros. 3 or Super Mario 64. But for everything bad that's happened in 2017, there has been one very notable bright spot: the newest Mario offering, Super Mario Odyssey, comes alarmingly close to being a total masterpiece of a game.
I grew up in a diehard Mario household. With every new release came a same-day trip to the store coupled with hours spent sprawled out on the couch in front of the TV. But it wasn't just me and my sister who were button-mashing our way to coin-fueled glory; my parents were the originators of our love for Nintendo, and they'd trade off the controller as they worked their way through each level of every game. As a result, I'm supremely opinionated when it comes to the games that I play - and have incredibly high Mario standards from years upon years of replaying my most favorite games. But what Super Mario Odyssey does so well, first and foremost, is that it taps into all the very best parts of all of the very best games - and updates them in a way that makes them not an afterthought to something that worked well, but an enhancement on what we already knew and loved.
Take, for example, the fact that each and every level comes fully loaded with a set of challenges that you have to accomplish. It's not just about getting from start to finish; it's about investigating every inch of space in the world to collect not just the Power Moons that enable you to level up, but the hidden Power Moons that appear after completion and the Purple Coins that challenge you to push the limits of Mario's abilities. One of Super Mario 64's best qualities was the ability to revisit the levels beaten on the surface level to hunt for Red Coins and Stars, and Super Mario Galaxy excelled in strategically placed Star Bits - and what emerges in the newest game is a combination of the two that is unspeakably satisfying and leaves you wanting more.
And it's Star Bits that were traditionally collected by an incredibly patient second player, who waved their Wii remote around to enhance the first player's gameplay as they moved from level to level. No longer: Odyssey enables a more dynamic two-player gameplay, letting the person who isn't controlling Mario control Cappy, his anthropomorphic hat. Cappy is a huge asset in the game, letting you become the various characters you encounter in your travels and serving as Mario's main weapon, and he's also a key reason why there's no question that the game is by far the best two-player Mario experience to date. Playing with a friend or loved one makes it easier to advance in some of the hardest trials and tribulations, and it's really fun to beat the baddies and collect the goodies even if you aren't the main player calling the shots.
But if you do play solo, part of what makes the game so great is that up until the very, very end, you're still constantly learning, evolving, and adapting to new types of worlds and talents. Sure, you can go back and try 500 times to get that one coin that seems desperately out of your reach - but you can also play through till you hit the skill that you so very much wished you had back then and go back and get it in a way that seems impossibly easy. In other words, it's a game that keeps you constantly moving back and forth, revisiting the levels that you loved and maybe some that you scowled at due to their difficulty, seeking out the ultimate 100 percent completion goal. Nothing, then, feels like it's forever - and that enables you to pick up the game after any amount of time away and get just as much out of it as you did the first time you opened it on your Switch.
The Switch itself, though, is perfect for the type of game that Odyssey is. Wandering around the intricately detailed levels, you've got the ability to change your view constantly and see every single aspect of what you're looking at - a feature that can be overlooked for the sake of enhancing the gameplay in the foreground. Here, the visuals combined with controllers that enable both movement-based or trigger-based play add up to a juiced-up version of the Wii Remote's capabilities, and boy are we glad that they stayed with it. Being able to switch the way you do your primary actions - throwing your hat and moving around/jumping - keeps your fingers from seizing up or having controller fatigue. It also makes it so that the other amazing function of the Switch - its portability and mobile gameplay - is completely stellar and sets up a seamless transition between playing on your TV on the couch or on your handheld on the run.
Finally, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the thing that completely and totally blew my mind about Super Mario Odyssey: for those of us lifelong fans, there's always been a sense that Mario existed in an alternate universe, one where there were maybe some human characteristics that transferred over to the world we were exploring, but didn't interact with regular people like us. This concept is completely turned on its head with the new game, introducing humans (!) and places that look far closer to our real world than anything we've ever seen in a Mario game. It's that extra little bit of jazz that makes the game feel like something fresh and new, and I promise the first time you come face to face with a real person in the game, you will, like me, have to pick your jaw up off the floor.
If it isn't completely obvious at this point, I'm officially a fan of Super Mario Odyssey and would recommend it to everyone from the newest gamer to the most OG Nintendo user. It's one of those games that comes around very rarely and immediately becomes a classic, blowing all that has come before out of the water. In other words: buy it. I promise you'll have a good time.
Exclusive: Francia Raisa Is Ready to Shake Things Up on Grown-ish
Grown-ish is already gaining a lot of buzz thanks to its stellar cast, but one person you'll want to watch out for is Francia Raisa, who plays Analisa Patricia Torres in the college series. As Zoey Johnson (played by Yara Shahidi) describes it, she's "a devout Catholic and an even more devout Republican with a secret shame," which is later revealed to be her love for Barack Obama. Ha! Watch an exclusive clip from the first episode above to see how their unlikely friendship unfolds, then be sure to catch the premiere episode, which airs on Freeform on Jan. 3.
7 Ways to Make Your Morning Toast Healthier
There's no better way to feed yourself for getting up and out of bed in the morning than making yourself a piece (or two) of toast. But if you're trying to reduce your daily calorie intake, you might need to rethink some of the hidden calories that you're spreading on your toast every day.
However, if you can't face a morning without your beloved toasted bread, we've rounded up seven low-calorie topping options that will let you have your toast - and eat it too!
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