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 8 janvier 2018
Caitriona Balfe Just Took Our Breath Away in This Gorgeous Chanel Gown
If you don't know Caitriona Balfe, you most certainly will after seeing her outfit at the 2018 Golden Globes. The actress, who's best known for her role on Outlander, walked the red carpet wearing a black bandage dress by Chanel. The gown featured chain-link straps and fuzzy arm cuffs. She finished her look off with a pair of simple, ankle-strap heels. Keep reading to have a closer look at her gorgeous gown ahead.
dimanche 7 janvier 2018
These Prints Are No Prediction - Everyone Will Be Wearing Them in 2018
The runways and resulting street style have spoken: the upcoming trends we encourage you to try are in, and there are some looks we're retiring, too. In 2018, a total of seven prints are being reintroduced to our wardrobes and refreshed by way of new silhouettes and colors. You might be familiar with some of the patterns ahead, but we're breaking down exactly how to wear them. Read on to study up on them all, or jump ahead to the print you want to see and shop.
What to Wear With Leggings - Once and For All
Let's face it: leggings are comfortable. That's likely why so many women favor them over jeans, trousers, and skirts, but figuring out how to wear them without looking a little too casual is a definite art form. While we're all for being cozy - particularly during the chilly months of the year - a lot of people don't realize that it's actually possible to look cute and wear leggings at the same time.
How to achieve stretchy-but-chic outfit nirvana? First up, find a pair of leggings you love, make extra sure they're not see-through (the worst!), then take some how-to-wear styling cues from the outfits ahead.
37 Satisfying Snacks With 100 Calories or Less
While you can always grab a piece of fruit for a low-cal snack, if you're looking for something a little more exciting, whip up these easy, healthy recipes.
I Did This Once a Month, and It Was the Key to My Weight-Loss Success
I was determined to lose the belly fat I've had since high school, that progressively grew from my addiction to sugar, cheese, and refined carbs (aka Swedish fish and grilled cheese) in college, and then from two pregnancies. Running 30 to 40 miles a week and eating healthy wasn't cutting it - a big change was necessary. My youngest was 3 and a half, so the baby weight had overstayed its welcome big time. I went a little extreme and signed up for CrossFit. After one month of classes five times a week, I saw my body beginning to change and felt so much stronger and more confident, and I was hooked. I decided to give it six months, convinced I'd be completely ripped by then.
But I wasn't. Far from it. My belly fat was still there, I had actually gained a few pounds, my upper body looked thicker, and my sports bras and jeans fit tighter. I was a little embarrassed and very discouraged and seriously considered quitting CrossFit. But taking progress photos every single month kept me motivated. When the first week of the month rolled around, I'd put on the same Lululemon shorts and sports bra and take a selfie of my front, side, and back.
When I'd look at the latest photo, I'd frown a little, not seeing the image I had in my mind of my goal body. But then when I'd look at that photo compared to my starting photo, I could see results! My progression was slow. And some months, it even looked like I was going backward. Lighting, angles, time of day, what I ate the night before, and whether or not I felt bloated all affected how these images looked, so I had to remind myself that.
But seeing these photos and the small changes in my body was the motivation I needed. If I only had the disappointing and increasing scale numbers to go by, I would have felt very defeated. Actually seeing my body change from month to month, regardless of numbers on the scale, was essential to the success of my journey.
If you're frustrated by the numbers on the scale, or you're against weighing yourself completely and want a way to keep track of your progress (and your muscles!), get out the camera. Pick an outfit you'll wear every time, and take the damn photos. You don't have to show anyone. Even if you know you didn't eat great or exercise much that month, take the photos! They'll keep you accountable and inspired to stay on the journey to a healthier, more fit you.
5 Printable Cardio Workouts For People Who Hate to Run
Hate the gym? Can't stand to run? Or maybe your schedule is such that your home also doubles as your fitness haven? If any of these scenarios sound like you, get excited, because we have five solid cardio workouts you can do at home - many with no equipment needed! And gym rats, don't fret. All of these workouts can be printed out and easily taken with you when you need to design a workout plan for those days that you're on the go.
The Ultimate HIIT Bodyweight Workout For Weight Loss
Whether you're new to HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workouts, or you've been doing them for years, here's a basic bodyweight HIIT workout you can do anywhere. You don't need any equipment to get in an amazing, heart-pumping, muscle-building workout!
This 20-minute HIIT workout involves 10 basic bodyweight moves, many of which are plyometric exercises. You'll alternate between 30 seconds of work and 30 seconds of rest. During those first 30 seconds, give it your all to really maximize the calorie-burning, belly fat-melting effects of HIIT.
Directions: Do each exercise below for 30 seconds, then take a 30-second rest after each move. The workout will take 10 minutes. Repeat for a total of two times, for a 20-minute workout. Want more? Repeat again for a 30-minute workout!
The Workout
Jump squats
Frogger jumps
High-knee skips
Cross jacks
Push-up and rotate
Lateral bunny hops
Up-down plank
Reverse lunge and hop
V-crunches
Plank jacks
See below for descriptions of all 10 exercises.
I Gave Up Sugar For an Entire Month, and Here's What Happened
My last name is Sugar, and all my friends call me Sugar, so it came as a surprise to them that I decided to give it up for my New Year's resolution. I know I have a pretty intense sugar addiction, so I've had spells where I've cut down on sugar. But this time was different.
It all started last year. I had just started CrossFit and was unnaturally nervous about it. My stomach started acting up and I attributed it to either anxiety or a crazy stomach bug from the gym. But three weeks passed and I didn't feel any better.
I went to the doctor and told her I felt fine when I woke up, but as soon as I started eating, my symptoms would flare up again. And by the evening, I was keeled over on the couch, with crazy stomach pains and bloating, convinced it was a three-foot tapeworm. She performed tons of blood tests, stool tests, and I even had my first rectal exam (a good time made even better by the fact that I had to bring my 4- and 6-year-olds along!). I got tested for gluten intolerance and parasites, but she came back with acid reflux. WTH! My symptoms were down low, not up high. But to appease her, I took meds for a week, just to tell her that they didn't work. She was flabbergasted. I asked, "Could it be something I'm eating?" She showed little interest, leaving me by saying, "I don't know; maybe experiment with your diet."
It wasn't until right before Christmas that I figured out what was causing me this nauseating pain. For my husband's birthday, I made him an outrageous three-layer cake. I then went on to eat a lot of that cake, you know, because we had to celebrate - it was the right thing to do! I felt so horrible after that and vowed not to eat any sugary crap until Christmas came five days later.
It was a Christmas miracle! I felt amazing, totally pain-free, until I made vegan sugar cookies and ate probably 17 over the course of two days. I felt worse than I had ever felt, and then I realized - it was the sugar. Well, f*ck! I was happy to figure out what was causing my unbearable symptoms, but man, how could I live without sugar? It was time to find out.
Since my 40th birthday was on Jan. 2 and giving up cake was not an option, I decided to quit the white stuff the next day. So I gave it up for a month. We're talking no maple syrup, no honey, no agave, no white sugar or brown sugar, no corn syrup, or brown rice syrup. Nada. No chocolate, no alcohol, no cereal, no bread if it was sweetened or made with sugar, no sweetened soy milk, and no after-dinner ice cream. I did eat fresh, frozen, and dried fruit, but the worst was no baking unless I made cookies sweetened with dates or banana.
I'm not gonna lie. It pretty much sucked. Especially the first week. But I got my mom to do it with me, so whenever we craved sugar, we called each other up and complained. But after the second week, I felt amazing! Aside from curing my extreme belly bloat and other digestive issues, the acne I've had on my chin since I was 12 went away, I slept better, and I felt more energized. But one of the best things that happened was that my cravings for sugar went away. I also noticed that I wasn't as hungry. I think eating so much sugar made me hungry for it, but whenever I ate it, I never felt satisfied and always wanted more.
I was only going to do this no-sugar thing for a month, but I feel compelled to keep going. I'll definitely splurge on the occasional piece of dark chocolate, spoonful of dairy-free ice cream, homemade baked goods, and glass of wine, but it seems like my stomach is super sensitive and trying to tell me to something, so I'm going to listen.
This post was originally published on February 1, 2017.
23 Breathtaking Shots of Ballerinas Against City Backdrops
Ballet can easily be appreciated on stage or in a studio, but it's even more breathtaking when seen in unconventional settings. Photographer Omar Z. Robles beautifully blends dance and street photography, and the results are nothing short of magical. His Instagram account is a collection of stories told through dancers' bodies against urban backdrops. Rather than sneakers on pavement, you see ballet shoes, and instead of leotards and mirrors, you see everyday clothing in movement on the streets of New York and Cuba.
Look ahead to see exactly what this stark contrast looks like - this will take your admiration to the next level.
I Did a 2-Minute Plank Every Day For 2 Weeks - Here's What Happened
When my team at POPSGUAR asked who wanted to try a plank challenge, my hand shot up. But back in my day (lol) when I was in college, a "plank challenge" consisted of taking photos of yourself lying face down, stiff as a board, somewhere crazy (it was a weird internet thing in the late 2000s). It was fun! This recent plank challenge however, was . . . not as fun.
I decided on challenging myself to hold a two-minute plank daily for 14 days to see if I'd notice any physical or mental differences by the end. While I was definitely feeling some toned and strong abdominal muscles, my biggest takeaway was about setting goals. Here are some things to expect on your own plank challenge.
You Can Customize It
Tip number one for this challenge: you can make it your own. I set mine to be a two-minute challenge because it felt like something I could do every day. Hard, but not so bad that I couldn't complete other workouts.
Additionally, pick a position that feels just challenging enough for your body and still accommodates for any discomfort or injury. I began this challenge in a high plank (top of a push-up), but a few days in, I decided it wasn't challenging enough, so I lowered myself on down to an elbow plank and finally felt a little bit of muscle shaking (woo!).
It Doesn't Get Easier
In two weeks time, doing a two-minute plank daily did not become a breeze. I had anticipated that a plank would feel like a cakewalk by the end of day 14, but alas . . . it was just as challenging as day 10, day four, etc.
You'll Feel Stronger in Other Workouts
One thing that I appreciated was the abdominal activation that ended up happening in my other workouts. I became acutely aware of my core and how I was using it in everything from strength training to SoulCycle. I did end up feeling like I had a stronger base from which to work off of - and since you use your core in basically everything, this was a nice little benefit of the plank challenge.
Feeling good about my strength and muscle from these planks!
You'll Want to Set an Alarm
I found that to keep myself consistent, it was important to set a reminder on my calendar. This ensured that I got it done every day and stayed on top of my small goal.
Two Minutes Is More Powerful Than You'd Think
One great thing I learned from this little experiment is that every minute in your day can be used for something powerful. How are you maximizing your day? What are you using each minute and each moment for? What are you wasting time on? Even a minute here or there dedicated to something that doesn't serve you can add up over time and deplete your emotional and physical energy. Channel your minutes into something that serves you.
You'll Learn the Importance of Setting Small Goals
If you're anything like me, you set BIG goals for yourself and often overlook the value of smaller ones. This was a lesson in not taking those smaller goals for granted and not undervaluing the power of adding something like this to your routine. If I can do a two-minute plank every day, what else can I do? Can I add two minutes of meditation every day? Maybe I could add one more strength-training move!
This small bit of goal setting reminded me of my recent conversation with celeb trainer and Revenge Body star Latreal Mitchell. "Limit yourself, and set realistic goals," she told me. "Set a goal for yourself that every day for one week, you're going to wake up early enough to eat breakfast." She noted that this was essentially the key to weight-loss success, but it didn't really hit home for me until I experienced my own minivictory.
12 Best Dumbbell Exercises For Strong, Chiseled Arms
When you want to isolate specific muscle groups in the arms, using dumbbells is truly effective - get ready to feel the burn! Depending on your strength, grab at least two size weights ranging from five to 15 pounds so you can switch up the appropriate size dumbbells for each move.
I Added These 4 Things to My Salad and Now I'm Not Hungry Till Dinner
I was feeling proud of being so prepared, making five mason jar salads on Sunday, but as soon as I finished my last forkful of veggies at lunch on Monday, I was starving an hour later. Then I'd end up eating a huge snack that was as big as a second lunch. No wonder I wasn't losing weight!
A jar full of carrots, peppers, celery, and baby kale just doesn't cut it. Even though I added beans to my salad for protein, I realized I needed healthy fats and carbs to satiate me for the afternoon. I started adding these four toppings to my salads, and now I'm full and happy until dinner:
1/4 cup whole grains (like quinoa): 56 calories, 9.9 grams carbs, 1.3 grams fiber, 2 grams protein
1/4 avocado: 57 calories, 2.9 grams carbs, 2.3 grams fiber, .7 grams protein
1/4 cup fruit (like 3 strawberries): 12 calories, 2.9 grams carbs, .8 grams fiber, .3 grams protein
1 tablespoon nuts (like salted sunflower seeds): 46 calories, 1.9 grams carbs, .7 grams fiber, 1.5 grams protein
The quinoa makes it feel like more of a meal, the avocado adds a creaminess that makes my salad more delicious, the sunflower seeds add a wonderful crunchy texture, and the fruit adds just enough sweetness that I don't crave a treat after lunch.
18 Whole30 Dinners You'll Make Well After Your Diet Ends
There are a lot of good reasons to try the Whole30 Diet; it's made up of fresh, whole foods, and free of things like sugar, junk food, and alcohol. It's a great plan for anyone looking to clean up their diet, but given the strict guidelines, meal prep is a must, especially when it comes to dinner. Gone is the ease of ordering takeout or delivery at night - trust us, that General's chicken is definitely not Whole30 approved.
If you're considering the diet for yourself, these 18 Whole30 dinner recipes are a good place to start, and the dishes easily lend themselves to leftovers for next-day lunches.
35 Plank Variations That Will Strengthen and Tone Every Inch of Your Body
A plank is anything but basic. The move simultaneously works the upper body and core without needing a single piece of equipment to do so. Adding the move into your regular routine will help you become stronger and leaner and can help offset everyday aches and pains. But why stick to the same old, same old every day when there are dozens upon dozens of exercises that take the traditional plank up a notch? Some task you with an added element of cardio, while others use weights to add even more resistance to an already-challenging move. If that's not enough, be prepared to work your balance and, in turn, feel parts of your core you didn't even know were there.
26 Breathtaking Shots of Ballerinas Against Stunning Beach Backdrops
Ease your daily stresses while you get inspired with these absolutely jaw-dropping photos of impossibly talented dancers; they'll make you think of the word "athlete" in a whole new way. David Hofmann, owner of Shark Cookie photography and dancewear, is known for his stunning shots of ballerinas and dancers against exquisite backdrops, particularly the beaches of Southern California. Scroll through these breathtaking shots for some fitness and dance inspiration - and a mental vacation at the beach!
Make These 16 New Year's Resolutions If You Want to Live Longer
If you want to live a long, healthy life, you know you should be taking good care of yourself. If life has gotten in the way of you being able to do that, start off the New Year with a commitment to yourself to make time for you! These healthy resolutions will not only have you feeling energetic and happy, but they'll increase your chances of avoiding disease so you can live close to triple digits with as much spunk as you have now.
Here's What Happens When You Quit Drinking
Our friends at YourTango gave up drinking, and this is what they learned.
It changed everything.
Since a young age, my mother has warned me of the dangers of alcohol. But, not in the same way that other parents might've, but in the weary way that you do when you know your child has been genetically cursed with the drinking gene on both her paternal and maternal side.
I've recently watched my father struggle with alcohol after decades of not drinking due to his father.
I spent my childhood watching my aunt battle her addiction with alcohol and drugs, and yet I went away to college and decided I could handle it. Although looking back, that was a lie. I went from being a sleepy drunk to a sloppy one. First, it was throwing up and then it was making an ass of myself while blacked out.
But, it wasn't until my past birthday that I decided to step back from inside the bottle after putting myself in one too many bad situations.
I've passed out in CVSes and Colombian clubs, woken up in a drunken stupor to find a $100 Uber bill and ran around hotel rooms ass naked.
But, the bottom line was when I couldn't remember having sex because I was so f*cked up. Despite being positive I was a willing participant, the only actual telling sight of sex was my achy vagina the next morning. After that, I decided it was time to put the bottle down for now before I was forced to do it later.
(The decision was further confirmed by a friend reminding me how I'd slipped into bed with her and her boyfriend, while still in the buck).
Truthfully, after nearly 100 days of consistent sobriety, I'm still trying to figure out if alcohol is something I could be able to enjoy leisurely since my problem was binge drinking as opposed to needing and wanting it every second of the day.
I knew how to have a glass of wine or just one beer when I was at home but when I turned up, it wasn't for play - it could actually be really scary.
The point is I'm still working out some of the details of this no-booze thing, but here's what I have discovered has happened since I stopped drinking.
1. I socialize less.
During the past couple of months, I've cut back on going out and not for the fear of being around booze but because I can't stand the pressure coming from so many directions. And, when I try to give a half-ass explanation simply stating it's to get healthy, I almost always end up just having to give an uncomfortable explanation of the previous actions that led to this decision (not in detail, of course).
2. But I socialize more.
Before you judge me for the contradiction, hear me out! Often times I would drink in social settings to get comfortable with a certain group of people or in a certain atmosphere. For instance, I only like dancing when I drink. So, I drink. But, without a boozy buffer, I've been forced to be social, strike up conversations, and bring the party on my own introverted merits. And while it's sometimes awkward at least I can recall the conversations now.
3. I lost weight.
It's no secret that alcohol isn't the best for your diet. You start to put on weight if you drink too much - and that was me. Mimosas (and screwdrivers) on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday - well - that's definitely not a recipe for weight loss. So, without it, I've fast-tracked the loss of my little pouch and said goodbye to my wine-induced FOPA.
4. I became more productive.
This one is really to the point. When you don't spend your days in bed mending your hangover just to prepare for another night of drinking, and thus another hangover you get sh*t done.
5. I saved money.
Drinks start to add up. I was drinking for brunch, joining monthly wine clubs, and still buying. I don't get paid enough for that madness.
6. I saved my life ... maybe.
With all the crazy stunts that I was pulling under the influence, it's really a lucky miracle that I wasn't kidnapped, assaulted, or worse.
My grandfather's life ended in a bottle and that's a fate I'm trying to spare myself from.
More from our friends at YourTango:
What It's Really Like to Lose Over 25 Pounds
By the middle of my sophomore year of college, I was in the worst physical shape of my life. A mix of drinking, the freedom to eat whatever and whenever I pleased, and my mom's cancer prognosis led to rapid weight gain and plummeting self-confidence. Every day I dragged myself to class wearing shapeless, oversize clothing, and avoided eye contact with my peers - I was genuinely unhappy with my appearance. The weight wasn't just burdening my body; it was affecting my mind as well. I felt intense anxiety and self-consciousness, and social situations that I used to flourish in became intimidating and difficult to maneuver.
My rock bottom
One night when I was getting ready for a friend's birthday dinner, I realized the extent of my dissatisfaction. As I thumbed through my closet feeling uninspired by every article of clothing, I realized that style, something I had always cherished, no longer excited me. It felt out of reach. I was not comfortable with the body I was dressing, and that realization was enough for me to begin making major lifestyle changes immediately.
I first had to accept that losing weight wasn't going to be an easy task, and that was why it was going to be worth it. Working toward anything takes unwavering willpower, strength, and sacrifice: weight loss was no different. Once I decided I wanted to change, a game-plan fell into place.
Step 1: I assessed my habits
I had always heard that weight loss was more about diet than exercise. In my case, this was more than true. I had been eating whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and as much as I wanted. My weakness was (and probably always will be) carbs, in all forms. I craved pasta, pizza, and bread of all sorts, much more than any indulgent dessert or treat. So, I knew for sure that this was an area that could use serious improvement. Since my mom has always commented on my unhealthy attraction to carbs, I confided in her about wanting to make a change and she helped me understand the difference between good and bad carbs. I hit the ground running and immediately cut out refined and processed carbohydrates, such as those found in the pasta and bread I loved, eating only carbs that were found naturally in fruits and vegetables. I knew I would be able to return to pasta someday, but for now it had to go.
Step 2: Apps that aided and recorded progress
Being a full-time student while balancing a social life, I definitely did not have access or the funds for guidance from a nutritionist, so, I did what any problem-solving millennial would do and I scavenged the app store for something that could help me instead. The app that kick-started and aided me immensely in my journey was MyFitnessPal. It taught me a lot about my body and what and how much I should be eating. What I found most useful was the ability to choose a target weight and the amount of time I wanted to take to reach the target weight. It was especially helpful in the beginning because I had no idea about intake and calories. Is 800 calories a lot for a meal? How many calories should I be eating a day? Is butter a carb? I also used KeepSafe, which is a camera roll protected by fingerprint and/or a custom passcode. For me, tracking my progress visually was incredibly important. I wanted to keep track of my weight loss through photos of myself in a sports bra and underwear so that I could easily observe the changes happening. That being said, I didn't want intimate photos of myself nearly naked living in my camera roll where a friend could easily stumble upon them.
Step 3: I skipped my diet sometimes
I remember beating myself up pretty harshly the first few times I broke the "no carb" rule I set for myself, but I quickly realized the significance of moderation. One meal, no matter how big or unhealthy, was probably not going to affect my weight as long as I was diligent and consistent with my diet the majority of the time. There was no reason to make myself feel as though I had failed for indulging. A bowl of gnocchi is something to celebrate!
Step 4: I found my place to sweat
I had always hated the gym and running, and intense anxiety tended to inhibit me from trying classes because I'm not completely in control of the situation. But, FINALLY, after a year and a half of healthy eating with no exercise, I forced myself to join a yoga studio. From the first time I went I was hooked. A tighter tummy was great, but a clear mind was even better.
Step 5: I mentally prepared myself for others' reactions
When someone loses weight, even a few pounds, people notice. So, after six months and over 20 pounds shed, people reacted. I wasn't heavy in a way that was threatening my health or well-being, so others questioned why I was trying to lose weight in the first place. I reassured my parents and close friends this was something positive and that I had everything under control, but everyone else was left to wonder. I found being genuine and kind was the best way to react to people's opinions, both good and bad . . . even though it was annoying.
Step 6: I became okay with never hitting my target weight
Yes, a scale was a good way to measure change in my body, but it wasn't the most important representation of my progress. It was much more about being comfortable in my own skin and dressing in clothes that made me happy. I did have a "goal weight" somewhat in my mind when I changed my lifestyle, but it dissipated from importance when I felt more confident and proud of my body, many pounds away from my original "goal." I never hit my goal weight, and if I ever do I probably won't know, because my scale has found a home in the trash can.
While I no longer use apps to track my diet, I am eternally grateful for how they helped me become the person I am today: a happy, healthy, self-confident yogi.
11 Easy and Delicious Dairy-Free Protein Ball Recipes
When you need a couple bites of protein after a workout or for a late-afternoon snack to hold you over till dinner, homemade protein balls are an excellent choice. The problem is that many recipes are made with whey protein powder. So if you're off dairy, try one of these dairy-free protein ball recipes (the chocolate peanut butter just might be our fave, or is it the carrot cake?!)
13 Weight-Loss Motivation Techniques
You've been trying to lose weight for a while now, but it seems like you just can't stay on track. Here are some weight-loss techniques to keep you motivated to reach your goals.
3 Ways Breakfast Can Help You Lose Weight
Some people think skipping breakfast is a great weight-loss tactic. The logic being that they're cutting calories out of their daily intake; unfortunately, it doesn't work out that way. Most people will make up for the calories later on in the day. Eating a meal in the morning can actually help you reach your weight-loss goal, and here are three reasons why.
- Breakfast jump-starts your metabolism: If you skip the first meal of the day, your metabolism actually slows down to conserve energy. Studies show that those who eat breakfast regularly lose weight, keep it off, and are less likely to be overweight. Breakfast eaters also more likely to exercise regularly. So be sure you eat breakfast, and enjoy it within an hour after waking up.
- Protein reduces cravings for sweets: The high amount of protein in popular breakfast choices such as Greek yogurt, whole grains, and eggs will give you energy, so you'll be less likely to reach for sugary, high-calorie pick-me-ups like pastries and specialty coffee drinks.
- Fiber satiates hunger and flattens your belly: Cereal, made from whole grains, and fresh fruit are both great breakfast choices because they're high in fiber. Fiber not only keeps you feeling full longer so you're less apt to feel snacky between meals, it also reduces the bloating associated with constipation, which makes your tummy appear flatter.
5-Ingredient Healthy Breakfasts to Make Your Mornings Easier
There's nothing worse than getting excited about a recipe and seeing a laundry list of ingredients you don't have on hand - especially when it comes to breakfast! Keep breakfast simple with these sweet and savory breakfasts that all clock in at five ingredients or fewer. Some can be made the night before, others come together right before you're ready to eat, but they're all easy to make and totally delicious.
This Is What Solved My Extreme Bloating Problem That 4 Doctors Couldn't Figure Out
A lot of things changed when I moved to San Francisco. I was much colder. I bought my first real jacket. I tried Philz Coffee for the first time. I started a new job. And, out of nowhere, my stomach started ballooning arbitrarily throughout the week making me look three-to-six-months pregnant at any given moment, for no apparent reason.
Things that didn't change: my diet, my exercise routine (OK, I started doing a lot more SoulCycle), and my overall health. I wasn't eating more food or less healthy food, so I knew it wasn't weight gain . . . especially when my pregnant-looking belly would mysteriously disappear by morning, and I was back to a flat stomach. But sometime during the day, I'd eat a peach or go to a cardio workout, and BAM: back to bloat. Biiiig bloat. I would snap photos to send to my mom (as you'll see below) because I couldn't believe what was happening to me, and I was horrified.
For 11 months, I wasn't comfortable with my body. I couldn't wear fitted clothing (aka, ALL of my activewear), because I knew at some point, my lower abdomen would jet out, and anyone who didn't know me would assume I was with child. I've been so afraid to eat, because I knew that anything could trigger my stomach, from a piece of fruit to a sip of sports drink. Yet then there would be days when I said "eff it!" and ate Cinnamon Toast Crunch and milk, and nothing happened. It made absolutely no sense.
I've never felt more more ashamed of my appearance, or more uncomfortable in my own skin . . . and I'm even ashamed to admit that! My body simply didn't feel like mine. And the worst part was that it didn't seem like there was an explanation or end in sight.
I saw so many doctors and went through so many labs; my initial appointment was to see if it was hormonal. It wasn't. I saw an OB-GYN. I had two ultrasounds. I tried the low-FODMAPS diet (it didn't go well). I had my blood tested for a thyroid imbalance. My doctors were stumped, and I was frustrated to the point of many angry tears.
"For 11 months, I wasn't comfortable with my body . . . I've never felt more more ashamed of my appearance."
Two glimmers of hope seemed to come at once: my doctor referred me to a phenomenal GI, and one of my close friends referred me to an acupuncturist and naturopathic doctor here in the city. Although I had been through so many appointments and tests already with no results, I tried to remain optimistic. And these were still two avenues I hadn't tried!
First up was my acupuncture visit with Dr. Magnolia Ng of Advance Health SF, and then my GI appointment with gastroenterologist, Dr. Daniel Conlin. Two very different doctors from very different backgrounds seemed to know the source immediately: stress. It was the first time anyone had brought up the idea that something mental could trigger such a strong physical reaction, but they both seemed certain. Stress was the one factor that did come into play when I moved. Long-distance move to a new city, new job, new everything equals one stressed out me. I didn't even notice because everything has been so go-go-go.
Dr. Conlin didn't cut any corners in his approach, and he didn't just write me off saying, "you're stressed, just calm down!" and send me on my way after collecting a copay. He tested my blood and breath for celiac, SIBO, h. pylori, IBD, and post-infection bacterial overgrowth (everything came back negative). He asked me to eliminate dairy, despite the fact that he didn't really think I was lactose intolerant. He went through so many avenues, but kept coming back to the idea that it was probably stress-induced. I asked him if I was a "freak case" or if he had seen this in other patients, and he said, "You're definitely not alone; I see this in many young women your age, typically high-achieving, A-type college grads who work here [in San Francisco] in some kind of fast-paced tech or startup company." It was like he read my bio. He knew. I knew. It was stress.
What I appreciated most about Dr. Conlin was his approach to treatment. He said if it was a celiac or SIBO case, he'd have different recommendations, but for me, he thought acupuncture, charcoal tablets, ginger root, and ginger tea, and specifically Align probiotics would be helpful in my treatment (he noted that it's the only brand he recommends, so I went with it). His openness to natural treatment despite coming from a Western background increased my trust in him and made me more comfortable in my health journey.
It was hard to explain to family and friends that stress was causing arbitrary abdominal distention, so I wanted to learn more. Apparently, an influx of stress can upset the microbiome (the ecosystem of good and bad bacteria in your gut, which can influence nearly all areas of your health). I spoke with Amie Valpone, nutritionist and founder of TheHealthyApple.com, who gave me some incredible insight as to what has been happening in my body. "Having too much non-beneficial bacteria in your gut has been linked to many health issues such as heart disease, fibromyalgia, eczema, asthma, depression, cancer, autoimmunity, allergies, obesity, autism, and allergies," she said . . . and in my case, inexplicable abdominal distention.
"We are so caught up in our busy lives that we don't realize how stressed out we are - that's when the health issues start to appear out of nowhere."
"When our microbiome is out of balance from stress, we get an imbalance of non-beneficial bacteria such as yeasts, parasites, and bad bacteria that take over and make us feel bloated, tired, and bring along a host of unwanted symptoms that range from person to person."
She went on to say that "change in diet, travel, processed foods, and stress from work, our family, friends, and so forth," can trigger this imbalance, but "we are so caught up in our busy lives that we don't realize how stressed out we are - that's when the health issues start to appear out of nowhere." It was amazing to hear those words of affirmation, because that's exactly what I had experienced. It was totally out of nowhere, and I truly had been so caught up in my busy life.
My gut was off thanks to stress, which caused the inexplicable bloating (that couldn't be attributed to anything I was eating) and the mission now was to use different natural remedies together to restore balance and get me out of a place of stress (that's a work in progress, honestly). "The goal is to address the underlying root cause of why your gut is imbalanced in the first place, instead of covering up your symptoms with a Band-Aid approach," said Amie. "That's where food, stress, mind-body practices, and probiotics come into play."
Dr. Ng had an additional approach to pair with my acupuncture treatments for both stress and energy blockages in my abdomen: Chinese herbs. She prescribed and gave me a bottle of Mu Xiang Shun Qi Pian, or "BloatEase," to take three times a day. "Emotional upset such as frustrations or worry, overwork, and a constitutional or genetic weakness can make a person prone to digestive disorders," she told me. The herbs and the acupuncture were intended to set things right again. She also mentioned to me the importance of using both traditional Eastern medicine in combination with Western medicine - and my recovery has been a testament to that.
The combination of treatment has been absolutely life changing for me. The Chinese herbs, probiotics, and acupuncture treatment (along with continuing to eat a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying on my workout schedule) has helped restore my body to its natural shape. The bloating is going away, even though I still have to work on de-stressing. When it does happen, the bloating has decreased in size, severity, discomfort, and frequency, and I'm finally starting to feel comfortable with my body again.
What did I learn from all this? For one, Western and Eastern medicine aren't mutually exclusive, and in fact, when they're used together, they've got a symbiotic, 360 approach that can be even more effective than if either were used on their own.
I've also learned to advocate for my health. If you're not getting answers, don't give up. Make another appointment. Bug your doctor. Ask for another referral. Don't take no for an answer. The world of healthcare is freaking nuts, and if you don't advocate for yourself, no one else will. I got pretty lucky in the way that my doctors were really helpful and responsive when I pushed, but I still had to jump through a lot of hoops to get the treatment I needed. Don't be intimidated, don't give up, and most of all, don't stress. A solution is out there for you, too.
This post was originally published on October 26, 2016.
What to Know About LISS Workouts and Why So Many People Are Doing Them
Are you in need of a break from a high-intensity cardio schedule? Maybe you've heard of LISS - a low-key style of cardio training and a fitness term that's been blowing up on social media. We chatted with Jake Peterson, a NASM-certified and Precision Nutrition-certified trainer, about the new fitness trend that's cropping up to figure out what exactly it is.
So, what is LISS?
LISS stands stands for Low-Intensity Sustained State - think marathon vs. sprint. Basically, any cardio- and aerobic-based activity that's performed at a low intensity but for a prolonged period (typically 30 to 60 minutes).
Is this a new type of fitness?
Not really. It's just trending thanks to some support from popular trainers. Peterson attributes its recent rise to the Australian trainer and Instagram star Kayla Itsines, who is a major supporter of LISS.
"This trend has made a comeback into recent fitness trends, but it has been used by bodybuilders and other aesthetic-based athletes for decades. As early as the late '60s and early '70s, it was a popular method used by bodybuilders to aid them in 'leaning out,' in combination with very low-carb diets," said Peterson.
What makes it so popular?
The reasons are varied, but each of them are enticing.
Active Rest and Recovery: LISS is ideal for an active rest or recovery day for those who have higher intensity workouts as a part of their everyday routine. The risk of injury is also significantly lower.
It's Not Intimidating: For those who are new to exercising and fitness, LISS is like a gateway to getting stronger and perfect for a first step on your fitness journey. Walking on a treadmill or going for a casual swim is much less intimidating than jumping into a bootcamp class. With more and more LISS activities, you can build strength and endurance to take on those higher intensity workouts.
The Lazy-Girl Concept: With low effort, you can get great results. Peterson noted that the recent uptick in LISS's popularity is partially due the desire to "lose weight while exerting the least amount of effort possible." It makes sense: the idea that you could get a leaner, trimmer body with just two hours of a slow walk on the treadmill each week is quite alluring.
What are some examples of LISS activities?
One of the great features of LISS is that you can do it in and outside of the gym. A brisk walk or a bike to work would constitute a good LISS activity, as well as using the rowing machine, elliptical, or stair machine at the gym. You could swim in a pool or in the ocean, surf or stand-up paddle, or kick up the incline on a treadmill. Check out some more steady-state cardio suggestions.
Does it actually work?
Short answer, yes. Peterson implements LISS when he works with clients - and it's part of his own training. However, just as you maintain a balanced diet, Peterson cautioned us to incorporate LISS into a balanced exercise schedule. "LISS training by itself will almost always lead to a negative yield in lean muscle mass and basal metabolic rate," said Peterson. "It's very effective at metabolizing fat for energy consumption by the body. However, it is horrible at accessing and breaking down stored fat."
So what does that mean? If you only do LISS training and LISS alone, your body will start to break down its own muscles as a source of fuel, "due to the much lower caloric requirements of burning muscle." You may thin out, but you'll lose strength.
How often can you do LISS?
If you're doing it correctly, all the time! Peterson recommends LISS to his clients who are in high-intensity training as an active recovery day and suggests doing a LISS activity after each training session to wind down, as it aids in the regeneration and conditioning of muscles.
When you're committing to LISS daily, Peterson recommends you to focus on your nutrition, as "adequate and proper nutrition - pre-, intra-, and post-workout - become much more important when training in this style."
As mentioned, the trick is to balance the low intensity with the high intensity; the combo of HIIT and LISS is the most effective approach for anyone trying to lose fat. "LISS training becomes very useful once it is performed after a workout session based on HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)," said Peterson. "The HIIT style of training is great at breaking up the triglyceride bonds within more stubborn adipose tissue (the hard-to-burn fat), but it is not very effective at metabolizing it out."
37 Satisfying Snacks With 100 Calories or Less
While you can always grab a piece of fruit for a low-cal snack, if you're looking for something a little more exciting, whip up these easy, healthy recipes.
100 Real-Girl Tiny Tattoo Ideas For Your First Ink
If you're a little nervous about a permanent stamp, the best way to start is with something small. We can tell you firsthand that tattoo removal is no easy feat. Luckily, we have endless inspiration of real-girl tattoos that will leave you feeling less anxious about expressing something on your skin. Whether you're looking for a mark with meaning or just a fun design, keep reading to check out all of these teeny-tiny tattoo ideas.
- Additional reporting by Marina Liao
35 Secrets to Marriage Success
For many married couples, falling in love and saying "I do" was the easy part. Living happily ever after is the part that takes a whole lot of work.
My family history doesn't have the best track record when it comes to the vow "until death do us part." My parents divorced when I was 18, and on my mom's side alone, not one single marriage has lasted (keep in mind, she's one of eight siblings). One might think this would make me a cynic when it comes to marriage - but for some unexplainable reason, that's not the case. Maybe I'm an idealist, but I think you can fall in love with your best friend, grow old together, and even live happily ever after.
I sought out some honest advice from real people who might have insight as to what makes a marriage stand the distance. I reached out to all the married couples and divorcées I knew and asked them the burning question, "What's the secret to making a marriage successful?" Read their words of wisdom below:
- Share everything with each other. Most importantly, everything you are feeling. There is no way to be on common ground if you don't communicate how you're feeling.
- Whatever bad stuff happens, remember this, too, will pass.
- Affection breeds more affection. Touch each other, kiss each other good morning, and have plenty of sex (even when you're old!). It's too easy to get out of the habit, which makes you feel distant. Intimacy and physical affection really help keep you connected.
- Children can be stressful, but they, too, will grow up.
- Let the little things go and think big picture. Since you're in it for the long haul, are you really going to care who did or didn't run the dishwasher when you look back in 10 years? Remind yourself that your relationship is much, much bigger than any one minor incident.
- Fill the fridge with his favorites - it's easy to do, so just do it.
- Take time for yourself to do what you love, what makes you happy and gives you energy - being successful as a couple will only work if each of you is strong and fulfilled as an individual.
- Avoid giving the silent treatment. Talk about things that bother you as soon as possible; don't let your emotions build up, because you'll likely explode.
- Let go of hurts more easily, and try not to dwell on things that annoy you.
- Don't be afraid to compromise. It sounds like a bad word and like you are giving up on your "ideals," but in reality it's about the push and pull of a relationship. Try rating how much you want something on a scale from one to 10 and have your partner do the same. So if eating out is a five for you and staying in is a nine for him, then you should stay in that night.
- Don't take each other for granted. You have to work at it all the time.
- Be spontaneous. Change things up every once in a while, whether that means a last-minute vacation or a card for no special occasion. Grand gifts and the smallest gestures can go a long way when you're with someone for a very long time.
- Be nice! This can be harder than it seems sometimes, but remember that you (hopefully) love the person more than anyone else on the planet and you chose to marry them, so treat them with kindness.
- Be patient. You both might grow together at different times and in different ways, so you need to give and take to make it last forever.
- Celebrate when good things happen, and be expressive about it.
- Find new things, new hobbies to do together like road biking, a cooking class, or starting a garden. It's just another reason to spend time together building your bond, and it keeps the excitement going.
- Marry someone you like killing time with.
- Tell them what you need. As much as you want them to, they can't read minds. Tell them that you feel disconnected and that you want a day alone together or date night.
- Speaking of date nights, go on them and have fun! It's important to set time alone regardless of how busy either gets - especially when you have kids. Even if you're overworked, overtired, or low on funds, it doesn't take much time or money to reconnect. It can be as simple as going for a walk or cooking dinner together.
- Make a budget together. It's a great way to talk about your plans and dreams for the future and how to make them happen.
- Surprise each other like you used to do when dating with special notes, small gifts, baking them a favorite recipe, or planning a weekend away. It lets the other person know you're still in love with them, and it makes you feel the love, too.
- On the other end, when your spouse does do something special for you, show appreciation. They may know that you think all those positive things, but it's nice to hear them out loud.
- Build your partner up and support them to be all they can or want to be.
- Take time to put yourself in your spouse's shoes before judging. You want to avoid unnecessary criticism or negativity as much as you can.
- Make each other laugh. Try not to take everything so seriously.
- Communication is key. When your marriage hits certain speed bumps, remind yourself that when you come out on the other side, your relationship should be better and more evolved. Make sure the tough times lead to improvement, and if you keep making the same mistakes, reevaluate why.
- Have couple friends but also your own friends who you hang out with on a regular basis, without your spouse.
- Be more generous with time and money.
- Be happy yourself. If you're in a slump, there's a tendency to take it out on your spouse or want them to fix it. You have to fix yourself.
- Don't get defensive. Try to come at things from a place of love and kindness, and don't assume you're being attacked.
- Trust and be trustworthy.
- Try to always remember why you fell in love with your partner. Whether it was their sense of humor or ambition - always remind yourself.
- Say "I love you," and tell your partner they look attractive.
- Appreciate what you have and realize that marriages at times can be fragile and need to be taken care of.
- Enjoy the NOW. Add a house, kids, etc. to the plate, and things just keep getting more complicated. Whatever phase you're in, embrace it and enjoy it.
10 Kitchen Organization Tips to Steal From Chip and Joanna Gaines
Not everyone is lucky enough to get a Fixer Upper home makeover from Chip and Joanna Gaines, but what everyone can do is steal a few tips from the experts themselves. If anyone knows how to create an organized kitchen, it's Joanna Gaines, and she often shares behind-the-scenes snaps of her home life and HGTV projects with her millions of fans on Instagram. With the following ideas in mind, you can create a clean and inspiring kitchen space that's both Gaines family- and Marie Kondo-approved.
Justin Timberlake Brings Sexy Back (Again) in His "Filthy" Music Video
Justin Timberlake is back, ladies and gentlemen! After announcing his fourth studio album, Man of the Woods, with a personal video earlier this week, the singer dropped the album's first single, "Filthy," and the accompanying music video at midnight on Jan. 5. While the crazy futuristic vibes (there's a robot that has Timberlake's face) and the singer's Steve Jobs-esque outfit are garnering mixed reactions, we can't deny the beat is insanely catchy. Not to mention the video is full of Timberlake's signature moves. It's basically "SexyBack" 2.0, and we can't get enough.
15 Skincare Products You Should Try in 2018 - From Head to Toe
There's no better time to pamper yourself than the start of a new year. So if you feel like your skin can use a little pick-me-up, we have you covered. We rounded up a handful of products that will help all your skincare needs. So whether you're looking for a hydrating mask, antiaging serum, exfoliating body scrub, or even a sunscreen setting spray, no doubt you can treat yourself from head to toe with these soothing picks. Achieve a dewy glow and shop these luxe choices.
10 Inspiring Bloggers Who Redefine Society's Beauty Standards
This year, we've been inspired by some incredible beauty influencers who've documented their journeys to self-love on Instagram and YouTube. Whether they've faced a rare disease or celebrated their body hair (or lack of hair!), these 10 bloggers don't let their unique looks let them feel any less beautiful and encourage us to be confident in our own skin, too.
Get to know the new faces defying conventional beauty standards, ahead.
Only Jennifer Lopez Could Look This Glamorous Sitting Courtside at a Basketball Game
Leave it to Jennifer Lopez to go full on glam at a sporting event. The singer joined boyfriend Alex Rodriguez for a Lakers game. Rather than wearing a jersey, J Lo proved she knows more than a thing or two about fashion by dressing up in a light blue sweater with a chic fuzzy vest thrown on top. She finished her courtside look off with skinny jeans, a pair of silver hoops, and beige heels. Keep reading to have a look at Jennifer's full ensemble, and buy similar versions of her vest ahead.
Selena Gomez's $25 Leggings Make Her Hard to Miss - Even While Standing Next to Justin Bieber
Since Selena Gomez rekindled her romance with Justin Bieber, the couple has been spotted everywhere - even the gym. The pair sweated it out at a class in West Hollywood, where Selena wore an oversize white sweatshirt with a pair of bright blue Puma leggings.
Selena's flattering leggings are currently on sale for $25, an added perk. It also seems like Selena, who's Puma's brand ambassador, picked up a new styling trick from Justin. She rolled her white long socks over her leggings to show them off à la Justin, who was also rocking high socks. Keep reading to buy Selena's exact leggings as well as similar styles.
Selena Gomez's T-Shirt Sends a Message About Her Love Life, If You Connect the Dots
Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber are keeping their relationship low-key. Though the two haven't explicitly stated their feelings on the newly revived romance, one look at Selena's latest t-shirt and you might know how she feels. The singer was spotted out and about in an all-black ensemble, and on the front of her Givenchy tee ($169, originally $550) was the slogan, "I Feel Love."
This graphic print could be a complete coincidence and have no correlation to Justin, but we're not so sure. It appears Selena is truly happy with something in her life and chose this shirt for a reason. Whether Justin's the cause of that or not, only time will tell. Read on to see Selena's top, then shop her exact one, plus similar selections.
Jennifer Lopez's Hoodie Says What We're All Thinking - She's a "Girl Boss"
Jennifer Lopez somehow always manages to look chic, even when she's going to the gym. The singer was seen working out in a stylish outfit with boyfriend Alex Rodriguez. Jennifer wore a pair of tie-dye leggings with a hoodie from Milly's collaboration with Girls Inc. J Lo's white sweatshirt had the very appropriate slogan "Girl Boss" written across the front. Keep reading to have a look at her athleisure ensemble and buy the exact sweatshirt, as well as similar styles.
What Your Super Bowl Party Needs Are These 10 Latin Chicken Wing Recipes
We can all agree that when it comes to Super Bowl party eats, chicken wings are a must - could you imagine the horror of showing up to a game-day get-together and seeing no heaping plates of the spicy favorite?
If you love nothing more than getting your hands dirty and biting into a good wing, it's unlikely you'll ever meet a flavor you don't like, but we're here to tell you, you haven't tried all the best versions out there until you've made the 10 Latin-inspired recipes ahead. Get the napkins ready!
Demi Lovato's Plunging Pink Swimsuit Is So Sexy, It Will Stop You in Your Instagram Tracks
Demi Lovato has shared exactly three stunning swimsuit shots in the new year, and they all have something in common: they're all ridiculously sexy, flattering one-pieces. From a cherry print Solid + Striped maillot to a striped, strapless design, Demi's left us inspired. But this hot pink Mikoh number ($228) might be our favorite look yet.
While the plunging neckline on Demi's piece strikes a sexy note, the splashy shade is youthful. Demi accessorized with white trimmed sunglasses and called attention to her matching surroundings in the bedroom - who needs a beach, right? Ahead, get another glimpse of Demi's ensemble, then shop her exact suit along with similar options.
Selena Gomez's Coach Bag Is All a Blur Once You See Her Stunning Dress
After taking our breath away in Coach's holiday campaign, Selena Gomez is back for the label's Spring 2018 ads, shot by Steven Meisel in a New York City loft. While the photos are meant to showcase Coach's latest release of bags - including the Parker, which launches in February and features a convertible strap - we were immediately struck by the slip dresses Selena wore for the series.
In the videos and photos ahead, you'll see her in lace and bead embellished designs that come in sugary pink and marigold and give off serious boudoir vibes. We've officially turned all our attention to shopping similar numbers, until, of course, we can get our hands on the splashy satchels adorned with fresh florals for the new season.
Demi Lovato's One-Piece Swimsuit Is the Flattering Type You Try on With a Huge Smile
Demi Lovato's inspiring caption about body image isn't the only draw to her bright swimsuit post. Sporting tiny, '90s-inspired sunglasses and a strapless, striped maillot that fit her gorgeous figure like a glove, the singer looked like that confident, trendy gal on the beach you admire as she struts on by. We immediately went searching for similar one-pieces with structure and perhaps an open back or a frill to make them all look twice. Demi appears to be a fan of printed silhouettes - the black and white Solid + Striped cherry design she wore a few days back inspired us to shop just as much. Ahead, check out Demi's new suit again, then shop away to make a bold statement.
You Don't Have to Look Twice to Notice the Sexy Cutout on Alessandra Ambrosio's Orange Bikini
Alessandra Ambrosio puts the babe in beach babe. The former Victoria's Secret model was seen enjoying the warm weather in Florianópolis, Brazil. Alessandra wore a lace-trimmed floral bikini by Spell and The Gypsy Collective with a pair of round sunglasses. As if Alessandra's orange bikini wasn't sexy enough, her top featured detachable straps and a sexy keyhole detail in the front. She accessorized with multiple gold chain necklaces and a straw hat. Keep reading to have a look at her floral bikini and buy the exact style, as well as similar versions, ahead.
As a Biracial Woman and Former Evangelical, Trump's Racism Is All Too Familiar
I used to be an evangelical Christian. I helped lead people in worship, or "ushered them into the presence of God," as we used to say. I traveled the world crooning out the message of the gospel at conferences hosted by my church, a mostly white evangelical megachurch in the suburbs of Chicago. On the weekends I sang for as many as 16,000 people. It was a lofty thing to be part of, a "calling" I believed in wholeheartedly. During the years that I served in this congregation, before I walked away from the religion I'd grown up with and embraced even more intensely in college, racial reconciliation as a ministry focus became more prevalent in my church. This term - "racial reconciliation" - may be most familiar to those in religious communities. Back then, I understood it to be a kind of evangelical model for tackling racism in the church, one that emphasized diversity, relationships, and the need to address systemic causes fueling racism in society. However, these same ideals and goals are also embodied in more widely known terms like racial justice and social justice.
When the leadership team decided to do a series of services focused on this topic, I was drafted to tell a piece of my story. As a biracial woman - and usually the only woman of color singing on stage - it seemed my time had come. I wrote a brief account, summarizing in one minute a personal experience with racism. The memory I chose to relate involved a family in that church, though I didn't reveal that detail. I told the congregation about how a former white boyfriend's parents, particularly his mother, persuaded him to end our relationship because they were uncomfortable with my blackness. I said the fact that they were all Christians undermined my confidence in God's love for me; it made me wonder if He loved white Christians more than black ones. I sang a song about love and unity and building bridges.
People came up to me afterwards, some weeping, apologizing for random things. Looking for absolution that I could not give. Seeing in me - at least for a moment - the entire black community, because for better or worse, we are never singular, always plural. I soaked it up. In that era of my life, I wanted to believe I was like Esther and had been called "'for such a time as this' (NIV, Esther 4:14)." I was inspired and hopeful. Maybe the church could help bridge that space between black and white. Maybe because I'd come from both places, I was uniquely equipped to be part of that healing. I love my family - black and white. But there had been a rift long ago, and I'd grown up occupying the expanse between them. It was lonely and I was sick of it. I wanted healing for myself and, on a larger scale, for all of us.
That was in 2001. By the time Barack Obama was elected to his first term in 2008, I no longer wanted to be part of any church environment. Disillusionment festered over that 7 year period as I witnessed a hyper-image-conscious handling of ministries and the people in them, a theological certainty among fellow congregants I couldn't relate to, and culminated in a manipulative and misleading interview process for a ministry job in the church. Ultimately, the thread of racism running through my time there put me over the edge. Indeed, in the years that followed the experience with my ex's family, I racked up more than a few racially charged confrontations with white Christian friends and acquaintances from the church. There were comments about darker black skin looking like an ape's; there was an email I received warning me that Barack Obama was not a citizen. All these moments left me with a nagging skepticism about the efficacy of racial reconciliation as a ministry in the church. Did the white evangelicals who subscribed to it in theory really want to help? Did they really want justice? Maybe a better question is were they able to see something in themselves that needed to change to bring any of this to fruition? Or were they in denial?
The 2016 election of Donald Trump and its aftermath incited that skepticism about racial justice in me once again. In fact, on a recent Sunday, as the banal melodies of contemporary worship music wafted up through my dining room windows from a nearby nondenominational church, my thoughts began revisiting the past. I recalled that moment on stage at the megachurch, talking about my ex's family. I thought about what it had been like for me as a biracial woman in a mostly white evangelical congregation. Why white evangelicals voted for a man like Mr. Trump and why I'd experienced the racism I did while among them seemed like twin inquiries comingling in my mind as I got my daughter's breakfast ready that morning. Two spoonfuls of cottage cheese and one poached egg later, I puzzled over one simple fact: Trump spoke in the language of racists and xenophobes and it seemed to be of minimal concern at best or resonate with them at worst. It was certainly not enough to dissuade them from casting their votes in his favor.
Even now, it appears they continue to stand by him: even after Charlottesville; even after chastising black athletes for peaceful protests against police brutality, suggesting they are ungrateful, calling them disrespectful "sons of b*tches." Even after Trump's tepid response to Puerto Rico's suffering following Hurricane Maria, his "blame the victim" stance, and his thinly veiled threats to remove aid, he is rewarded with their loyalty. In fact, it seems as if the "conversation" happening now only includes them while the rest of us watch and listen on the sidelines.
It is not my intention to paint all of evangelicalism with a broad brush. I know there is a contingency within this branch of Christianity that is sincere about racial justice. They are inspired by people like Reverend Jim Wallis and Reverend Dr. William Barber. They are comprised of mostly blacks, Hispanics, and Asian and Pacific Islanders, but also a large number of whites. They did not vote for Donald Trump. (I don't personally see how anyone that truly cares about such things could.) But they were not - and seemingly are not - the majority. I can only speak to what I was exposed to while active in a predominantly white evangelical subculture. Perhaps all of these scenarios I've related were unique to the church I once attended. But I suspect it is symptomatic of a bigger problem in the church at large.
For a good portion of my life, I have been timid when faced with racist comments or behaviors demonstrated by white people. I default to the social survival instincts born out of a childhood spent in racial isolation. Giving the "benefit of the doubt" has typically been my modus operandi. It often translates to silence or the most palatable, watered-down version of what I really want to express. On those infrequent occasions when I've called out a white friend or family member's propensity for racial bias and/or racist thinking, they are not able to own it for long, if at all. The deflection and defensiveness that often follows comes in various forms of "you should be grateful," "what aboutisms," and other false equivalences or excuses.
This was the way with my ex-boyfriend's mother. Not long after I spoke during the racial-reconciliation-themed services at my old church, she called to apologize "for the way we treated you," she said. There had been a pang of conscience. Maybe she'd heard me speak or someone close to her had. I could hear anxiety in her voice, a rushing through sentences and marginal regret. She couldn't commit to it, though, and quickly began defending her actions. She objected to us as a couple "out of concern for what her son would face." She had students who were biracial and saw "how hard it was for them, caught in the middle." It's a twisted logic that masquerades as caring but seems to suggest I, and others like me, would be be better off not existing. She lectured me, a biracial woman, as if I had no clue what my hypothetical children would face. I wanted to say, "It's people who think like you that make it difficult." Instead, I listened and thanked her for calling. She was afraid and embraced a response to that fear which she knew was inappropriate. Nevertheless, her discomfort with interracial marriage and biracial children rated above doing the right thing. In the end, she let herself off the hook. And to my regret, so did I.
While I was part of the megachurch, I often observed this same troubling attitude around race, typically in moments when I did not strive to be palatable but was more straightforward, less "sugar coated." It articulates itself with an air of kindly smugness, in which the righteousness of an evangelical Christian is sacrosanct. It can not be challenged with charges of racism. They have, after all, been remade in Christ's image and imbued with the power of the Holy Spirit. How can they be guilty of racism? They don't use the "N" word and they may even have black friends. They don't engage in lynchings or burn crosses or march with neo Nazis and white supremacists. They denounce these things publicly, so isn't that proof they are blameless? They are good, Christian people. And yet, they have empowered and continue to support a man who repeatedly demonstrates that he does not value the lives of black and brown people as much as white ones. He has put me and my family in harm's way with his inability or unwillingness to definitively and authentically disavow white supremacy. Like my ex-boyfriend's mother, white evangelicals are so thoroughly convinced by and invested in a sense of their own righteousness and moral high ground, they have undone the work of reconciliation.
That Sunday morning in church all those years ago, I did not share what were, for me, profoundly more intense details of the relationship with my ex-boyfriend's family. Granted, I was one of many people on the stage that day. I had to be brief. But I often wish I hadn't tried so hard to make what I needed to say easier for the church to hear. I still remember the shame and bewildered frustration in my ex's voice as he repeated his mother's words to me over the phone: "If the two of you date, that's fine . . . but if you got married and had children . . . I'm not sure I could love them as much as I love your sister's kids." Such words took my breath away then and still have the power to suffocate, especially now that I do have a child who is biracial. I wish I'd told the congregation about those remarks and that they'd been made by a woman among their own ranks. As long as white evangelicals believe this mindset is only wreaking havoc in other places, they are absolved from having to address it among themselves.
Even though I no longer see myself as a part of that community, I still carry a certain amount of love for it and residual pain from it. There is some piece of me that still hopes the church has something valuable to contribute to the cause of racial justice. It's probably why I feel the need to, in my own way, hold white evangelicals accountable. I want them to do better.
But when I consider the very real danger of war as Trump threatens North Korea, angers our allies, and alarms even those close to him enough to speak out about it, I can see that opposing ideologies and differences aside, we are all of us bound together in our shared vulnerability against a true existential crisis. This awakens my compassion, my desire to find common ground, and a willingness to have those hard conversations. My past with the evangelical church is akin to being wounded, soul-deep, by a family member or close friend: you may want to make peace with them somehow, but you do so with the knowledge that you might never be as close as you once were. A price has to be paid, and truth is the currency.
17 Trends Facebook Thinks Will Go Mainstream in 2018
As we prepare to say goodbye (and good riddance) to 2017, it's hard not to get introspective about the year that was. Be it the heady highs of the Women's March to the lowest lows of widespread natural disasters, a lot happened this year that will inform just how it is that we tackle what's to come in 2018 - and thankfully, the good people over at Facebook have been keeping close watch on what the next 12 months might have to offer.
On Dec. 13, Facebook IQ - the insights and marketing division of the social media giant - released its annual Topics and Trends Report documenting all the things that the company feels will go mainstream in the year ahead. In other words, they've given us our first look at what to expect starting on Jan. 1 - and ahead, we've shared some of the most insightful trends that Facebook thinks will become a mainstay in our everyday lives. From female empowerment to the ever-quickening rise of AR, this is what Facebook's crystal ball has to say about 2018.
Lego Relased a Women of NASA Set, Since "Ladies Rock Outer Space"
Four of the most accomplished women in STEM are about to be celebrated with the highest pop culture accolade in America: a Lego set in their honor.
Nancy Grace Roman, Margaret Hamilton, Sally Ride, and Mae Jemison are the four NASA veterans featured in the special "Women of NASA" set, which will hit stores on Nov. 1. Included in the package are a Hubble Space Telescope, an Apollo Guidance Computer, and the Space Shuttle Challenger - all iconic images of the glory days of the historic NASA program. It's no surprise, then, that the set was the brainchild of the brilliant Maia Weinstock, deputy editor of MIT News, or that Lego hopes the set will not only serve as a way to laud the many, many accomplishments of women in the science and engineering fields but also encourage young women to consider careers in STEM in general. Weinstock originally submitted the concept to Lego's Ideas crowdsourcing platform, where the pitch quickly garnered widespread support among Lego's most diehard fans - and now, what was once a remarkably good idea is about to become reality.
"In all realms of science, engineering, and technology, pioneering women have historically been underappreciated for their often groundbreaking work. We have also seen that when girls and women are given more encouragement in the STEM fields, they become more likely to pursue careers in these areas," Weinstock said in a statement, adding, "With this project, I wanted to spotlight a fantastic group of women who have made seminal contributions to NASA history. My dream would be to know that the first human on Mars - or an engineer or computer scientist who helped her get there - played with the LEGO Women of NASA as a child and was inspired to pursue a STEM career as a result."
A few more images of the set are below, and be sure to pick one up for yourself in November - there's truly no better way to unwind than with the combination of female empowerment and a good ol' Lego set.
Nancy Grace Roman, one of the first female executives at NASA:
Margaret Hamilton, creator of some of the most vital software in the computer science field:
Mae Jemison and Sally Ride, legendary astronauts:
I Traded Up For the Apple TV 4K and Here's Why I'll Never Go Back
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Chelsea Hassler
I got my first Apple TV as a present; I was still working in television at the time, and my boss presented it to me as a (very, very generous) holiday gift. The supersleek, supermysterious object would quickly become something that I could not picture my life without. Not only did I use the second-generation device a lot for work, but it also meant that I no longer had to squint at my teeny-tiny laptop screen when I wanted to watch something on Netflix or Hulu, opening the floodgates of binge-watching that would remain constant for years to come. In the seven years that my Apple TV and I cohabitated together, I lived in three different boroughs of New York City, saw partners and friends come and go, and changed my career several times over. It was just in September of this year, 2017, that I tried its much, much younger sibling - the Apple TV 4K - and knew it was time to update my trusty partner in crime.
To be clear, I hadn't ever even considered upgrading my old device. It worked perfectly, so why would I bother? But when I unboxed the 4K and got it up and running, I realized the light years of tech I had been missing out on. Therefore my experience isn't one shaded by a side-by-side comparison, a judgment of what sets it above and beyond its competitors (or, for that matter, not). Instead, it's one of awe and wonder - and of falling back in love with TV all over again thanks to the help of a device that's roughly the size of a thick slice of bread.
Ahead, you'll find some of my favorite functions of the Apple TV 4K. And if you're in the market for a more thoughtful way to streamline all the many ways we get our entertainment these days and for things to be a little bit simpler in several of the most intuitive yet impossible ways, I promise you won't be disappointed by the Apple TV 4K.
Image Source: Apple
The TV App
I'd always been curious about that "TV" app that appeared on my iPhone at some point over the last year, and as soon as I got started with iOS 11 and my new Apple TV, everything sort of just fell into place. It's basically where you can find everything you're looking for, all in one easy-to-find place. Once you've signed in with iOS 11, it pulls together all of your apps (like Hulu, Showtime, and HBO) and you can also add in your cable subscription to gain access to all of the programming on apps like CBS, The CW, and more. And once you watch something - or leave off halfway through an episode - it puts it in there for easy access to pick up exactly where you left off on any other Apple device.
For me, the best thing about this is the fact that it eliminates having to search for the latest episodes and where you can stream them - it puts them right in front of your face where you quite literally can't miss it, and you can essentially just live in the "watch now" section of Apple TV if you want to. For full instructions on how to set this up and get going, head on over to Apple to read more and know that I am not exaggerating when I say that it has eliminated hours of searching from my life and I couldn't be more stoked about it.
Image Source: Apple
Siri
When I said that I wasn't looking to highlight specific features that are new only to this device, I was very much referring to Siri, who honestly blows my mind (even now!). A recent convert to voice control, it almost feels like Siri was made explicitly to make browsing more easy - and to make it so that when you lose the remote control, you've always got the ability to control your TV via your mouth. Siri can do lots of things, though, and isn't just limited to "pause" or "play."
You can ask Siri to find the most recent episode of a TV show or pick up where you left off on a movie. You can rewind a couple minutes or a couple seconds, or search through what's available in the massive libraries of the streaming giants for a specific moment in time that you just have to watch again. Say "What did they say?" and she'll skip back 15 seconds in time and throw some captions up on the screen for that scene. Ask her "Who stars in this?" and she'll give you an IMDB-style rundown on the bottom of your TV screen, no iPhone required! Oh, and if you're indecisive (like me), she can also tell you what to watch based on what Apple sees as trending at that moment in time.
Image Source: Apple
4K and HDR
I'd be lying if I said that I could tell the difference between 4K and regular TV before I got the Apple TV. But I had the pleasure of hooking my box up to a real, legit 4K TV and all I can say is: holy sh*t. It's like being in an adventure that requires no glasses or special devices to traverse, and the colors are mindblowingly vivid. I'm almost - almost! - tempted to upgrade my old TV, but as the saying goes, I'm probably better taking one step at a time. And it can cost you a bit more money (Netflix has a "premium" plan that features 4K movies in all their glory), so it may not be for everyone. But if you do have a 4K TV, do yourself a favor and get an Apple TV. I promise it won't disappoint you. Even the screensaver that comes up when you've been idle too long has been upgraded to a beautiful, crystal-clear set of images that will leave you transfixed as you listen to music or talk on the phone.
Image Source: Apple
And a Few More Things
Apple recently changed its movie rental period to a whopping 48 hours (!), which means that instead of only having a night to watch a movie, you can make a weekend out of it - and it makes the rental fee feel a lot better from where I stand. And when you don't feel like watching a movie, there's also a whole host of beautiful, addictive games that have been brought into the device, which means you can play the things you love most as well as a bunch of new TV-native apps via your tiny Apple remote (or, if you're fancy, via a control which you can purchase separately). I would be remiss if I didn't mention just how smoothly the interface works. No more loading screens and clunky click-throughs - everything about using the Apple TV feels crisper, snazzier, and, frankly, more enjoyable than ever before. And finally, one of the features I love the most: since the Apple ecosystem is so efficient, I don't have to get rid of my old Apple TV. Instead, I moved it into my bedroom, which means I can pick up exactly where I left off in the living room. It may be a whole lot more rickety, but it's the sign of true progress. Apple has clearly got one eye on making all of your devices, old and new, work together - and I couldn't be happier with the result so far.
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