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.
jeudi 18 janvier 2018
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.
Dylan Farrow Wants Woody Allen to Know That #TimesUp
Dylan Farrow's CBS This Morning Interview
For the first time ever, Dylan Farrow took part in an on-camera interview about her allegations of sexual abuse against her father. The adopted daughter of Woody Allen and Mia Farrow sat down with Gayle King on CBS This Morning to share her story, reiterating and exploring the details which were first raised in 1992 (when Farrow was just 7 years old) and which were again brought to the forefront in 2014, when Farrow published an open letter in The New York Times. Allen has denied the allegations.
Farrow's story has continued to draw attention because, to this day, the 82-year-old famed director has yet to be held accountable for his actions. The interview will air in the early hours of Jan. 18 and covers both her allegations of sexual abuse as well as her thoughts on the #TimesUp movement, a Hollywood-led effort to raise awareness of equity, parity, safety, and inclusion of women and marginalized persons.
Watch @GayleKing's full interview with Dylan Farrow tomorrow on @CBSThisMorning. http://pic.twitter.com/yJkDv0kzVU
- CBS This Morning ❄️ (@CBSThisMorning) January 17, 2018
"I am credible, and I am telling the truth," Farrow tells King in a preview of the interview. "I think it's important that people realize that one victim, one accuser, matters. And that they are enough to change things."
The timing of Farrow's interview comes amid a fierce backlash against Allen by Hollywood figures who have worked with the director in the hopes of more in the industry taking the charges against him more seriously. From director and actress Greta Gerwig directly reiterating Farrow's allegations to actors like Rebecca Hall, Timothée Chalamet, and more donating salaries from Allen films to causes like #TimesUp, it appears the day of reckoning for the director is finally approaching. It may have taken years, it may have taken multiple venues to share the story, but the day has finally come for Dylan Farrow to be heard - and for the director's guiltless run to end.
Accordingly, Farrow has absolutely no regrets for maintaining the course of her story. "Why shouldn't I want to bring him down?" Farrow says in her interview. "Why shouldn't I be angry? Why shouldn't I be hurt? Why shouldn't I feel some sort of . . . outrage that after all these years being ignored and disbelieved and tossed aside?"
No, White Friend - You Weren't "Embarrassed" by Barack Obama
The following story, "No, White Friend - You Weren't 'Embarrassed' by Barack Obama," was originally published on JohnPavlovitz.com.
I remember the day after the Election, a friend of mine who happens to be white, remarked on social media that he "finally wasn't embarrassed of America and our President."
I sprained my eyes rolling them and they have never fully recovered.
Since then I've heard this sentiment echoed by more white folks than I can count, especially in recent months; supposed relief at once again having a leader who instills pride.
Since I don't have the time to ask each of the individually, I'll ask here:
So, you were embarrassed for the past 8 years, huh?
Really?
What exactly were you embarrassed by?
Were you embarrassed by his lone and enduring twenty-five year marriage to a strong woman he's never ceased to publicly praise, respect, or cherish?
Were you embarrassed by the way he lovingly and sweetly parented and protected his daughters?
Were you embarrassed by his Columbia University degree in Political Science or his graduating magna cum laude from Harvard Law School?
Maybe you were embarrassed by his white American and Black Kenyan parents, or the diversity he was raised in as normal?
Were you embarrassed by his eloquence, his quick wit, his easy humor, his seeming comfort meeting with both world leaders and street cleaners; by his bright smile or his sense of empathy or his steadiness - perhaps by his lack of personal scandals or verbal gaffes or impulsive tirades?
No. Of course you weren't.
Honestly, I don't believe you were ever embarrassed. That word implies an association that brings ridicule, one that makes you ashamed by association, and if that's something you claim to have experienced over the past eight years by having Barack Obama representing you in the world - I'm going to suggest you rethink your word choice.
You weren't "embarrassed" by Barack Obama.
You were threatened by him.
You were offended by him.
You were challenged by him.
You were enraged by him.
But I don't believe it had anything to do with his resume or his experience or his character or his conduct in office - because you seem fully proud right now to be associated with a three-time married, serial adulterer and confessed predator; a man whose election and business dealings and relationships are riddled with controversy and malfeasance. You're perfectly fine being represented by a bullying, obnoxious, genitalia-grabbing, Tweet-ranting, Prime Minister-shoving charlatan who's managed to offend all our allies in a few short months. And you're okay with him putting on religious faith like a rented, dusty, ill-fitting tuxedo and immediately tossing it in the garbage when he's finished with it.
None of that you're embarrassed of? I wonder how that works.
Actually, I'm afraid I have an idea. I hope I'm wrong.
Listen, you're perfectly within your rights to have disagreed with Barack Obama's policies or to have taken issue with his tactics. No one's claiming he was a flawless politician or a perfect human being. But somehow I don't think that's what we're talking about here. I think the thing President Obama did that really upset you, white friend - was having a complexion that was far darker than you were ever comfortable with. I think the President we have now feels much better.
Because objectively speaking, if what's happening in our country right now doesn't cause you great shame and doesn't induce the continual meeting of your palm to your face - I don't believe embarrassment is ever something you struggle with.
No, if you claimed to be "embarrassed" by Barack Obama but you're not embarrassed by Donald Trump - I'm going to strongly suggest it was largely a pigmentation issue.
And as an American and a Christian committed to diversity and equality and to the liberty at the heart of this nation - that, embarrasses me.
The Pentagon Wants to Fight Digital Fire With Real Fire
Days after America's nuclear fears were realized in the form of an accidental push alert, the Pentagon announced that it wants to amp up the country's response to weapons of mass destruction by making nuclear arms a more prominent solution in our defensive agenda.
The Pentagon penned Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) equates non-nuclear threats with nuclear threats, expanding the definition of what "extreme circumstances" regarding attacks means. The NPR would effectively enable American defenses to lob devastating weapons in reaction to nonphysical threats to our infrastructure that could be interpreted as abstractly as cyberattacks. This liberal handling of weapons outlined in the NPR has been sent to President Donald Trump for approval. Neither the Pentagon nor the White House has commented on such assessments of the plan.
The NPR would also advance production of smaller nuclear weapons that skirt the line of being non-nuclear, some of which were being developed during the Obama administration. Experts observe that the strategy to handle (as well as the motivation to create) such weaponry under the NPR suggests a greater likelihood that nuclear weapons will be used.
This news is, obviously, quite concerning. It also sadly echoes recent findings by the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report: in a survey of 1,000 international leaders on man-made threats, nuclear war was a top concern next to extreme weather and cyberattacks. Moreover, just weeks ago, Pope Francis spoke out directly on the matter in his "state of the world" speech, noting that "nuclear weapons must be banned."
Whether intentional or not, the NPR is perfectly timed (in the worst possible way) to stoke the reemergence of Cold War paranoia: days after Hawaii's botched missile warning, Japanese broadcasters sent false warnings of incoming North Korean weapons. Paired with rising tensions between countries - particularly between North Korea and the United States - and the ongoing debate over Trump's mental fitness, the uncomfortable laughter triggered by nuclear threats is starting to wear very, very thin.
The small positive in the Nuclear Posture Review draft is that Trump has yet to approve it. While there will likely be no confirmation nor denial of the plan until the final version is released in February, early speculation of the Review suggests more nuclear weapons are central to any plan involving Trump. Regardless of the final product, the new normal of 2018 is decidedly nuclear.
Every Change to Expect From Alaska Airlines as It Completes the Merge With Virgin America
Now that Alaska Airlines and Virgin America are officially considered a single airline by the FAA, Alaska is one giant step closer to completing the merge. Though Virgin America's name and logo will be retired by 2019, travelers can expect to see many of their favorite brand elements integrated throughout Alaska's transformation.
Since acquiring Virgin America in 2016, Alaska Airlines has already undergone several changes, including an addition of 82 new routes, which is the most West Coast nonstop destinations of any airline. But that's only just the beginning. As we bid farewell to Virgin America, we welcome a new and improved Alaska Airlines.
Here's what you can expect over the course of this year:
January 2018
- Jan. 1: Virgin America's Elevate Points loyalty program merged with Alaska's Mileage Plan. Members have until Jan. 31 to self-convert their points. Otherwise, it will automatically be done for you by Feb. 8.
- Jan. 18: Alaska Airlines will unveil its new crew uniforms created by Seattle designer Luly Yang, which will officially roll out in 2019.
March 2018
- Alaska Airlines will begin to add high-speed satellite WiFi to its Boeing and Airbus aircrafts.
April 2018
- Alaska Airlines will open its New York (JFK) lounge.
- April 24: Travelers will no longer be able to book flights through Virgin America. Site visitors will instead be redirected to AlaskaAir.com where they'll enjoy a single Alaska Airlines shopping, booking, and airport check-in.
2019
- Alaska Airlines and Virgin America will officially operate under one brand and name.
- The airline will build a $650 million, 20-gate North Satellite facility, which will include a 15,000-square-foot flagship lounge.
Other Major Changes to Come
- Alaska's Boeing planes will feature new, modern interiors with blue mood lighting.
- Its airport area will play music to celebrate its West Coast roots.
- The interiors of Alaska's Airbus planes will be replaced to include new seats, carpets, and lighting. The number of first class seats will be increased while a premium class will be introduced.
- Travelers will be able to enjoy over 200 free movies, TV shows, and free texting directly from their device.
- West Coast-inspired food and beverage choices will expand to include healthy options and full-pour regional wine and microbrews on board.
- More travel options for the greater Seattle area will be offered.
Keep checking in as we continue to add exciting updates!
An Improbable Friendship Between a Dog and a Duck Is the Good News Story We All Need Right Now
Sick and tired of only hearing about the bad things going on in the world? We're right there with you - and, thankfully, we've got the cure for exactly what ails you.
Meet the unlikely pair of Max, a 12-year-old Husky, and Quackers, a 4-year-old duck. Against all odds, the two animals - both owned by Patrick and Kirsten Riley - are inseparable best friends, and they're the pride and joy of the teeny-tiny town of Strout, MN. The town boasts a population of just 25 people, so Max and Quackers are well-known to all the residents and can frequently be seen out patrolling their domain. "Sometimes on my way home, I actually hope they're out there because they're just too precious to look at," Strout resident Alisa Godejahn told CBS affiliate WCCO-TV.
In the interview below, the Rileys describe how they adopted Max when he was 5 and he became fast pals with the couple's other dog, Sasha, and after she died, he was left without a friend. "He was without any friends, and Max would sit next to his pen all the time, and I think they just bonded that way," Patrick Riley says, adding, "after we let him out, they just never left each others' side." Kirsten Riley goes on to say that "they sleep together, they eat together, they drink together, they go for walks together down the road . . . everything is together."
The improbable friendship between a dog and a duck provides a poignant reminder that kindness and compassion transcends all that which may traditionally divide us and that it's not impossible to buck tradition and create a bond with someone who may not be exactly the same as you. As such, the pair is often used as a symbol of how to "put aside differences" among the residents of the town in which they reside.
Symbolism aside, it's hard not to have your heart melt at the sight of these delightful animals trotting along in unison. And you can bet that we'll be bookmarking this video of Max and Quackers and be watching it all year long, because it's exactly the kind of thing that we need a little more of in our lives right now.
A Running List of Donald Trump's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Nicknames
One of the most consistent aspects of the Trump era has been the president's use of often offensive and always overzealous nicknames. As we noted here six months ago, that bullying spirit is directed at anyone who gets in the way, one that brings down everything that the administration stands for to an almost unbelievably childish level. Not quite sure what we're referring to? Well, in order to show just how insane the whole thing really is, we've gone through all the Trump tweets and media appearances and come up with a list of what he's repeatedly called his least favorite people (and media outlets) over the past few years. Spoiler alert: judging by the latest addition - on Jan. 4, railing on former aide Steve Bannon as being "Sloppy Steve" - this trend shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. Ahead, read through the full extent of the madness - and be sure to check back on this story, as we'll be updating as new nicknames are added to his lexicon.
- Kim Jong-Un, Leader of North Korea: "Rocket Man"
I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man...
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2017
- Steve Bannon, former top Trump aide: "Sloppy Steve"
I authorized Zero access to White House (actually turned him down many times) for author of phony book! I never spoke to him for book. Full of lies, misrepresentations and sources that don't exist. Look at this guy's past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018
- Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and first lady: "Crooked Hillary"
The Russia hoax continues, now it's ads on Facebook. What about the totally biased and dishonest Media coverage in favor of Crooked Hillary?
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 22, 2017
- Mika Brzezinski, Morning Joe Host: "Dumb as a rock Mika"
Crazy Joe Scarborough and dumb as a rock Mika are not bad people, but their low rated show is dominated by their NBC bosses. Too bad!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 1, 2017
- James Comey, former FBI director: "Leakin' James Comey"
How can FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, the man in charge, along with leakin' James Comey, of the Phony Hillary Clinton investigation (including her 33,000 illegally deleted emails) be given $700,000 for wife's campaign by Clinton Puppets during investigation?
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 23, 2017
- Face the Nation: "Deface the Nation"
- Rep. Frederica Wilson of Florida: "Wacky Congressman Wilson"
I hope the Fake News Media keeps talking about Wacky Congresswoman Wilson in that she, as a representative, is killing the Democrat Party!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 21, 2017
- Megyn Kelly, NBC News Host: "Crazy Megyn"
Can't watch Crazy Megyn anymore. Talks about me at 43% but never mentions that there are four people in race. With two people, big & over!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 16, 2016
- Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee: "Liddle' Bob Corker"
The Failing @nytimes set Liddle' Bob Corker up by recording his conversation. Was made to sound a fool, and that's what I am dealing with!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 10, 2017
- Luther Strange, former Alabama Senator: "Big Luther"
The NRA strongly endorses Luther Strange for Senator of Alabama.That means all gun owners should vote for Big Luther. He won't let you down!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 21, 2017
- Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts: "Pocohontas"
Elizabeth Warren, often referred to as Pocahontas, just misrepresented me and spoke glowingly about Crooked Hillary, who she always hated!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2016
- Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York: "Cryin' Chuck Schumer"
Cryin' Chuck Schumer stated recently, "I do not have confidence in him (James Comey) any longer." Then acts so indignant. #draintheswamp
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2017
- CNN: "Clinton News Network"
Wow, did you see how badly @CNN (Clinton News Network) is doing in the ratings. With people like @donlemon, who could expect any more?
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 30, 2016
- Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida: "Low Energy Jeb"
- Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas: "Lyin' Ted"
Wow, Lyin' Ted Cruz really went wacko today. Made all sorts of crazy charges. Can't function under pressure - not very presidential. Sad!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 3, 2016
- Joe Scarborough, Morning Joe Host: "Psycho Joe"
I heard poorly rated @Morning_Joe speaks badly of me (don't watch anymore). Then how come low I.Q. Crazy Mika, along with Psycho Joe, came..
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 29, 2017
- Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont: "Crazy Bernie"
The real story on Collusion is in Donna B's new book. Crooked Hillary bought the DNC & then stole the Democratic Primary from Crazy Bernie!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017
- Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona: "Jeff Flake(y)"
Sen. Jeff Flake(y), who is unelectable in the Great State of Arizona (quit race, anemic polls) was caught (purposely) on "mike" saying bad things about your favorite President. He'll be a NO on tax cuts because his political career anyway is "toast."
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 19, 2017
- Chuck Todd, Meet the Press Host: "Sleepy Eyes Chuck Todd"
When will Sleepy Eyes Chuck Todd and @NBCNews start talking about the Obama SURVEILLANCE SCANDAL and stop with the Fake Trump/Russia story?
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 1, 2017
- Al Franken, former senator from Minnesota: "Al Frankenstien"
The Al Frankenstien picture is really bad, speaks a thousand words. Where do his hands go in pictures 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 while she sleeps? .....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 17, 2017
- Sen. Doug Jones of Alabama: "Puppet Jones"
LAST thing the Make America Great Again Agenda needs is a Liberal Democrat in Senate where we have so little margin for victory already. The Pelosi/Schumer Puppet Jones would vote against us 100% of the time. He's bad on Crime, Life, Border, Vets, Guns & Military. VOTE ROY MOORE!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 8, 2017
- Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida: "Little Marco"
Word is-early voting in FL is very dishonest. Little Marco, his State Chairman, & their minions are working overtime-trying to rig the vote.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 12, 2016
- The Washington Post: "The Amazon Washington Post"
The Amazon Washington Post fabricated the facts on my ending massive, dangerous, and wasteful payments to Syrian rebels fighting Assad.....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 25, 2017
- Katy Tur, NBC News Reporter: "Little Katy"
- The New York Times: "The Failing New York Times"
The Failing New York Times has a new publisher, A.G. Sulzberger. Congratulations! Here is a last chance for the Times to fulfill the vision of its Founder, Adolph Ochs, "to give the news impartially, without fear or FAVOR, regardless of party, sect, or interests involved." Get...
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018
So Long, Virgin America - You Will Be Missed!
Virgin America, which has become one of the most beloved airlines over the past decade since its launch in 2007, is officially saying goodbye as of Jan. 11. Though travelers can still anticipate seeing Virgin America planes at the airport for a while longer, the California-based airline will no longer operate under its call sign, "Redwood." Instead, pilots working for Virgin America and Alaska Airlines will fly under the same name - "Alaska" - which makes them officially a single airline in the eyes of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Since being acquired by Alaska Airlines in December 2016, Virgin America has undergone several changes. In addition to offering TV shows and movies for free beginning Spring 2017 and satellite WiFi throughout its fleet since Fall 2017, Virgin's Elevate loyalty program officially switched to the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan on Jan. 1. Members have until Jan. 31 to self-convert their Elevate points. Otherwise, it will automatically be done for you by Feb. 8.
April 24 will mark the last day that travelers can make reservations on Virgin America's site. After then, you'll be redirected to AlaskaAir.com.
As Alaska Airlines continues to roll out changes to its brand and product, it does plan to adopt many of our favorite Virgin America elements, including mood lighting (blue lighting will replace the iconic purple lighting), music, and enhanced in-flight entertainment. By 2019, Virgin America's name and logo will be retired entirely.
The airline has also teamed up with designer Luly Yang to create brand-new crew uniforms (soon to be unveiled), which will better reflect the company's rebranding.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates!
Bill Murray Returns to SNL as Steve Bannon, Reminds Us Why He's a National Treasure
Bill Murray made a glorious return to Saturday Night Live this week. The former cast member appeared as President Trump's current archenemy, Steve Bannon, who recently fell out of Trump's graces for comments he made to Michael Wolff, which were later included in Wolff's tell-all book, Fire and Fury. In the hilarious cold open, Murray as Bannon shows up on MSNBC's Morning Joe show with Mika Brzezinski (Kate McKinnon) and Joe Scarborough (Alex Moffat) and refuses to admit that his political career is over. Watch the clip above to see why everyone's praising Murray's SNL performance.
I’m an Atheist - and No, I’m Not More Likely to Be a Serial Killer Than Anyone Else
Like 40 percent of Americans, I found myself on a Sunday morning in a place of worship; specifically, I was sitting in the pew of a church. Not just any church, but Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, GA, which former President Jimmy Carter attends and where he was scheduled to teach Sunday school that morning. After "checking in" on Facebook, I received notifications and text messages with the same question, "You're in a CHURCH?" Yes, this atheist was in church. Yes, this atheist was going to listen to a Sunday school class and participate in a full church service. But just because I don't believe in any higher power, did that mean that I couldn't reap any judicious lessons about humanity that might be taught?
There's a common misconception that atheists are untrustworthy and immoral and will burst into flames upon entrance of any religious facility. Now, there are people of all faiths or nonfaith who are untrustworthy or immoral, but I am here to tell you that none us will spontaneously combust. All jokes aside, this is a harmful and hurtful stereotype that those of nonfaith face. The New York Times recently published an article highlighting a new study by the journal Nature: Human Behaviour that showed a strong bias against atheists among those questioned in more than 13 countries, including the United States. The shared suspicion of nonbelievers as dangerous is still alive and well worldwide. The survey showed an "extreme moral prejudice against atheists," and respondents even said they believed serial killers were more likely to be atheists. (Which begs the question: what about terrorist attacks conducted by faith-based persons vs. atheists/agnostics?)
The nonbeliever portrays an unwelcome threat to the religious, when, really, we are just trying to live our lives.
Teachings from the books of various religions including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam reinforce punitive measures for those who don't obey the religious teachings as lessons to be learned - often brutal lessons. This is to, literally, put the fear of God in you. One would think that this would lead to better behavior among adults and children, a kinder mentality toward fellow humans. And yet, another study conducted by a team of developmental psychologists found that "children from religious families are less kind and more punitive than those from non-religious households." This is not to say that there aren't some good lessons to be learned from these religious books; on the contrary, commandments such as "Love thy neighbor as thyself" and not to gossip about others are exercises from which we could all do a little better in practicing. But when these teachings cease to be about genuine kindness and more about who can be the better worshiper, this is when religion starts to lose its credibility in regards to morality.
The author, right, with former president Jimmy Carter, center, and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, left, at Maranatha Baptist Church. Photo courtesy the author.
Here's the thing about atheists: when we show altruism, it's not to assuage some higher power or in the hopes that we are going to get a front-row seat in some kind of heaven or afterlife. We also don't have the fear or guilt that often comes with religious pledging. We practice acts of decency toward our fellow humans on this earth because that's just what you do. So why are atheists still judged and treated as if we're dangerous? My take on this is what plagues all of us at some point in our lives: fear of the unknown. In my experience, many who have not found their own comfort and confidence in their religious lives project their unease onto "the other." Atheists are routinely seen as "the other." The nonbeliever portrays an unwelcome threat to the religious, when, really, we are just trying to live our lives.
What the study published in The New York Times failed to explore or answer was why atheists are seen as immoral and less trustworthy. What we should now ask is why atheists and agnostics are seen as more likely to be "psychopathic serial killer(s)," when there's not any evidence proving this belief as accurate? Who gets to define "morality"? Why is the idea of morality synonymous with religion, when no one should have to be driven by gods, faith leaders, or fear to simply be charitable, decent people?
The person to my left, who was raised Baptist but turned Episcopalian, guided me through the service, as I stood unfamiliar and unsure.
I sat in the sanctuary that Sunday with a wide array of people from various states, countries, faiths, and nonfaiths, all of our differences acknowledged and welcomed. The person to my left, who was raised Baptist but turned Episcopalian, guided me through the service, as I stood unfamiliar and unsure. President Carter's lesson that morning focused on Ezekiel 37 and The Valley of the Dry Bones. While this lesson serves as a reminder to those of the Christian faith that God can make bad things in their lives better, President Carter's words and actions transcended the scripture. He himself presents as an example, as he takes the dry bones of wood and turns them into homes through his volunteerism for Habitat For Humanity. Regardless of how big or small, our gestures to humanity as a whole are how we make a difference, rather than where or who we choose to worship or not.
Atheists are your neighbors, your coworkers, your classmates. As an atheist, I awaken each day with the same hopes and fears as those who believe in a higher power. I just go about tackling those challenges a little bit differently. Rather than continuing to further the idea of atheists as "immoral" and reinforcing a falsely based fear, we need to redirect the dialogue and have the conversation. As people navigating this planet for a fairly short amount of time, we're all just trying to do the best we can, while leaving this place a little more compassionate than before, whether we believe in a god or not.
The First Female Marine to Fly An F-18 in Combat Is Running For Congress in Kentucky
Lieutenant General Amy McGrath is a retired fighter pilot, and the first woman to fly an F-18 in combat. Now, she's running for Congress in Kentucky.
On August 1, a mere two months after retiring from a 20-year career in the Marines - during which she flew 89 combat missions, and bombed both al Qaeda and the Taliban - McGrath posted a YouTube video announcing her candidacy for the 2018 race in Kentucky's 6th district. While McGrath has always known that her dream job was to fly fighter jets, she's no stranger to the way that Congress works. In fact, her history with the governing body dates all the way back to the age of 13.
"When I was 13, my congressman told me I couldn't fly in combat. He said Congress thought women ought to be protected and not allowed to serve in combat," she says in the ad, while walking on a runway in front of a jet. "I never got a letter back from my senator, Mitch McConnell." McGrath goes on describe how she wrote letters to each and every member of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees asking them to change the rules, and while she may not have heard from the current House Majority Leader, she did in fact hear back from several who tried to tell her she couldn't do it - though the law changed when she was accepted into the Naval Academy.
It's this type of strength in the face of adversity that McGrath will bring to the race in Kentucky's 6th, where she will face off against two other Democratic challengers seeking to unseat Republican incumbent Rep. Andy Barr. Barr, a noted Trump supporter who has stood by all of the president's controversial policy decisions (and lack thereof) has been the subject of a lot of criticism from his constituency over the fact that he has taken stances on the issues that don't necessarily align with the values and beliefs of the people that he represents. The dissatisfaction came to a head this Spring when Barr held a Town Hall during the Congressional recess and was met with boos, interruptions, and angry words from those who attended the event, specifically about his continued support of a repeal and replace for Obamacare, as the program enabled Medicaid to expand in the state and now enables nearly half a million additional people to receive healthcare benefits.
These sentiments are not lost on McGrath, who is seeking to capitalize on Barr's shortcomings with a heavy focus on healthcare and the struggles of low-income families during her campaign. She joins a handful of other veterans who have already come forward as candidates for the 2018 election, looking to join the fight against President Trump.
And you can bet that we'll be closely watching her campaign in the coming months, because McGrath is one badass woman that we would love to see take a seat in 2018.
Why Millennial Women Are Embracing Atheism
Danielle Schacter never thought she would become an un-Christian. "I slowly became more and more disgusted by the way I saw people treating others," says the 32-year-old, who was raised Baptist. "I didn't want to be associated with a religion that preached so much hate."
Danielle Schacter, who identifies as agnostic, is one of a growing number of people who identify with no religion. Photo courtesy of Danielle Schacter.
Schacter, like so many millennials, has chosen a secular life, and she's not alone: according to the Pew Research Center, only four in 10 millennials say that religion is very important to them, compared with six in 10 Baby Boomers.
The numbers of religiously unaffiliated support this, too: 23 percent of the population identifies with no religion. This number is up from 2007, when it was only 16 percent. Of older millennials, 35 percent are religiously unaffiliated - and they're driving the overall growth of the nonreligiously affiliated in America.
"I didn't want to be associated with a religion that preached so much hate."
This is a big deal. To be religiously unaffiliated means you not only avoid identifying as a Christian or Jew or Muslim, but that you eschew organized faith altogether. From there, "nonreligious" can be broken down into four categories: secularism (the belief in separation of church and state and that all beliefs are equal), agnosticism (the belief that it's impossible to know if there is a god), humanism (the idea that human reason drives us, not higher powers), and atheism (the belief that there is no god). This last group, the atheists, has become increasingly vocal in recent years. They are fighting to keep religion separated from laws that affect them and to shift society away from religious trappings.
Kayley Whalen, a queer transgender Latinx woman who identifies as "a humanist and an existentialist and an atheist." Photo courtesy of Kayley Whalen.
What's fascinating is that while millennials are moving away from religion, they are moving toward spirituality. This demographic considers itself just as spiritual as older demographics, even as they represent an exodus out of organized religion and into the throes of secularism. When you consider the issues facing young people today, the reasons for the exodus are easy to understand. In rejecting religion, millennials are asserting their progressive attitudes and passion for social justice. They're committed to the idea that they don't need religion to know the difference between right and wrong.
Perhaps no one represents this cultural shift better than millennial atheist women. While they may sit at the most extreme side of the nonreligious spectrum, atheist women are fueled by the same concerns plaguing millennials in general: a quest for independence and a rejection of the status quo.
The Atheism and Feminism Connection
Lauryn Seering, 27, has never been religious, but she found atheism in high school in reaction to mainstream fundamentalist Christian ideas that condemn her lesbian mother. "Millennial women want autonomy over their own bodies," says Seering, communications coordinator for the Freedom From Religion Foundation, which is dedicated to protecting the separation of church and state.
"They recognize that all the arguments against this autonomy (contraception, birth control, marriage) are religiously fueled," Seering continued. "Women aren't being pressured by society anymore to get married at a young age, have children right away, and tend house while their husbands work."
Lauryn Seering, an atheist who works for the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Photo courtesy of Lauryn Seering.
Schacter identifies as agnostic. She's based in Kansas City, MO, where she founded a digital marketing agency called Boxer & Mutt. To her, growing secularism is a sign of independent women. "It's becoming more socially acceptable for women to think for themselves and really question why things are the way they are rather than blindly accepting them," she says.
Kayley Whalen, 31, is a queer transgender Latinx woman who identifies as "a humanist and an existentialist and an atheist." These different identities certainly influence how she approaches the world. "We have ethical values without the need for the supernatural," Whalen says. "We believe in social justice, that we can live a life with meaning, purpose, and dedication to social justice without the need for supernatural guidance." Unsurprisingly, Whalen's beliefs are tied up in her activist work: she's the digital strategy and social media manager for the National LGBT Task Force and is on the board of directors for both the Secular Student Alliance and the Trans United Fund.
As Whalen epitomizes, many young women who do not believe in God share a point of view that goes beyond just being atheist or just being a woman. The two are intertwined identities oppressed similarly in the United States.
"We have ethical values without the need for the supernatural."
Lee Blackwolf, who runs the popular Facebook page Black Atheists, constantly copes with this intersection. "It's important to me because, as a black bisexual woman, there's not many of us who are atheist," explains Blackwolf, a 29-year-old stay-at-home mother in Twinsburg, OH. "We're not welcomed in most spaces that are atheists. We already have a lot of hurdles to jump through in life so it takes a lot of strength. I lost an entire family because of it. I actually have the luxury to say that I'm better off without them. It's not the same for most."
Blackwolf's concerns hint at societal assumptions about atheist women, which every woman we spoke with touched on: being a woman who isn't religious breaks away from the social norms that frame femininity. Emily Greene, an artist and activist working in promotional marketing in Augusta, summed it up best. "You're probably seen as less feminine," the 32-year-old said. "You're definitely judged, looked at more harshly. It's an assumption that it's a negative thing."
Ironically, being atheist can mirror being religious, as it plays a role in many aspects of young life. "That was very important to me in choosing a partner," says Katherine, a 32-year-old HR manager in California. "I have gotten into some debate with friends before where they're like, 'If you're an atheist, why do you care if the other person is of faith?' I'm like, 'You - as, say, a Christian person - would not want to marry a non-Christian person."
Why Are Young Women Interested in Atheism?
Phil Zuckerman, professor of sociology and secular studies at Pitzer College, believes that young people are turning away from religion as a result of how closed-minded and conservative many congregations can be, particularly when they are responsible for enabling xenophobic and queerphobic mindsets. For instance, many churches reject the idea of same-sex marriage, while 71 percent of millennials support it (in comparison with only 46 percent of Baby Boomers).
"A lot of young people are being turned off of by that brand of Christianity," he explains. "They're just seeing religion as an institution and saying, 'Ah, screw it.' Even though that brand of Christianity is not the majority - most Christians are decent, kind people who aren't anti-gay and aren't racist and aren't anti-Islamic. But they don't make the headlines. They're not dominating the news."
Emily Greene, an artist, activist, and atheist. Photo courtesy of Emily Greene.
The internet is also serving as a conduit for less religion. As technology occupies more of our time, says Zuckerman, it chips away at "religion's ability to maintain a monopoly on truth . . . It's really corroding religion's ability to dominate our culture and dominate people's lives."
While there have always been religious skeptics - the farthest back is believed to be the Charvaka movement in 7th century BC - the present shift away from religion is notable because the numbers of religiously unaffiliated and atheists are way up. Although the movement is still predominately male and white, more women are stepping forward as religion reveals itself to be optional in their lives - and sometimes to stand in the way of their independence.
Zuckerman believes this has to do with traditional organized religions' male-centrism: teaching women that they're second class, must remain virginal, and must stay out of leadership positions. Pair this with the amount of women in the workplace rivaling men, and the group doesn't need to turn to a church for social or financial support that churches typically offer.
Being an Atheist Is a Political Act
Molly Hanson grew up in a Catholic household but has always been skeptical of the "invisible man in the sky" who tells people what to do. The 23-year-old Hanson, like many atheists, finds that questioning faith and religion makes people wonder if something is wrong with her womanness.
"If a woman doesn't bow down to this god and lord, she must have an issue with that god or lord," says Hanson, an editorial assistant at the Freedom For Religion Foundation. "She must have been damaged. There's a reason why she decided to leave that god. She might have been morally corrupted by another man or might have - I don't know - been wronged."
This issue isn't confined to religious communities. One woman - a 30-year-old Indian American writer in New York who declined to give her name - finds this flaw in atheist leaders, too.
"The movement itself is really alienating toward women," she says. "Leaders like Richard Dawkins are pretty sexist and condescending and talk down to women. Women have been left out in those major discussions of atheism."
The nonreligious believe that, once the church is taken out of the state, equality can be achieved.
Whalen agrees: "It's really difficult that one person like a Richard Dawkins or a Bill Maher can be seen as the face of atheism. The difference between a woman who is an atheist, and a male, cisgender atheist is that a woman doesn't have the choice to be a single issue. She can't say, 'Oh, religious discrimination is the most important thing - and being a woman comes second.'"
For women who are atheists, discrimination is complicated further by the many ways their identities intersect. Gender as it relates to religious affiliation is complex, and it's even more complicated as it relates to black female atheists, as Blackwolf can attest. "A lot of black atheist men are often heard saying, 'Black women sure do love them some church!'" she says. "When we start having a discussion, there are implications about where my place in the community should be, and that's behind the man."
Atheist Women Want a Future of Equality
In speaking with young atheist and secular women, some through lines appear, among them a hope for equality that could be stymied by religion's grasp on society. There is a desire to normalize differing points of view, from LGBTQ people to atheists.
Katherine sees public events like the inauguration of President Donald Trump as a perfect example. "I was really struck by so much praying happening," she says. "I'd like to see us move kind of away from that and use logic and science and that holistic definition of freedom."
The nonreligious believe that, once the church is taken out of the state, equality can be achieved. Hanson believes these roadblocks arise as the result of unequal representation. "Women understand what it's like to be oppressed by laws that are rooted in religious ideas that oppress women and their sexuality," she explains. "To get more women in government positions is going to be a challenge, especially right now."
When women hold elected office, it inspires more women to run - and more women in government has a powerful trickle-down effect on women as a whole.
But what if these women leaders were atheists? Would they still succeed?
Surveys have shown that atheism is one of the traits in a leader that Americans are most biased against. "I cannot imagine a president who identifies as an atheist," says the Indian-American writer in New York. "I'm a woman and a person of color: a female person of color who is an atheist could never be the president of the United States. It feels like another barrier."
Others, like Whalen, see these many layers as vital to change: "I want a woman politician to run and say that she's an atheist and that she's for reproductive justice, that she's for transgender rights, and win. I want a transgender woman to be able to do that."
Ultimately, for atheist women (and atheists in general) to succeed at changing society, they need to continue on the path they are on and not settle for being silenced. Zuckerman draws parallels to the LGBT community. "Coming out does have an effect," he says. "More and more people feeling comfortable saying 'I'm not that religious' has an effect." Atheists just want to be seen as starting from the same place as any other decent American.
Greene sums it up nicely: "We want to get up, go to work, and enjoy our friends and families and our lifestyles just the same way as the person who gets up on Sunday and goes to church. We have our own ways of self-care. A lot of people find religion and that's how they take care of themselves - and that's great. We just do things a different way and that's OK."
This Is the $5 Hairspray That Makes Gal Gadot's Hair Look So Damn Good
She may be one of the biggest stars in Hollywood - and she may play one of the most iconic and empowering characters of all time - but Gal Gadot keeps things humble when it comes to her hair product lineup. The Israeli actress, and new face of Revlon, uses Dove Style + Care Compressed Micro Mist Extra Hold Hair Spray ($5) via her longtime stylist Mark Townsend. In fact, Gadot used the hairspray before hitting the red carpet for the National Board of Review Awards.
Townsend told Today Style, "I'm obsessed!! Keeps volume and shine in the hair all night while still being touchable and it was really windy last night."
The superhold hairspray nourishes and protects hair without making it feel stiff, plus it pulls the reins on flyaways and frizz. You can pick it up at Target for less than your venti latte.
Tarte Says "We Know There Is No Excuse" For the Lack of Diversity in Our Shape Tape Shades
Update: Tarte released a statement via Instagram story the controversy surrounding the limited shade range of its new Shape Tape foundation. We have transcribed the statement below.
You all know by now that we revealed our much anticipated shape tape foundation . . . & the final shade range that we launched was definitely not a full representation of all of you. It may be too little too late, but we can assure you this was not meant in any kind of malicious way. We all just got caught up in #shapetapenation and seeing your tweets asking for it . . . We wanted to get the product out as fast as possible, and we made the decision to move forward before all the shades were ready to go. We know there is no excuse & we take full responsibility for launching this way. We lost sight of what's really important in this industry, & for those who feel alienated in our community, we want to personally apologize. We're doing everything in our power to bring those unfinished shades as fast as we can, at any cost. WE CAN AND WILL DO BETTER.
This post has been edited from its original version.
POPSUGAR can exclusively reveal that 10 more Shape Tape Foundation shades are in the works. These new foundations will join the 30 hues that already exist. The initial offering includes shades as light as Porcelain to ones as deep as Mahogany.
A rep from Tarte explained to POPSUGAR that even when Shape Tape Foundation was revealed, the new colors were already in the works. Tarte reps explained that it could take time to get the full range finished and flawless. "We're always pushing ourselves and suppliers to work as quickly as possible," our contact confirmed.
Tarte is still adding shades to its bestselling Amazonian Clay Foundation. The brand told POPSUGAR it promises to continue to add to and assess the collections, making sure the shade range is comprehensive.
Image Source: Popsugar Photography / Aimee Simeon
This $19 Makeup Organizer Is Amazon's Bestseller - It's the Answer to Your Messy Counter
There is nothing more stressful than having your collection of cosmetics sprawled across a bathroom counter or vanity. That's where the Jerrybox Makeup Organizer ($19) comes in. It's an Amazon bestseller that can hold up to 30 makeup brushes, 20 bottles of skincare products, and other additional items. It has 735 reviews, and 70 percent of customers give it five stars - that's impressive.
The organizer includes seven layers of adjustable trays that you can change according to the various heights of your products. Its sturdy base rotates 360 degrees so you can easily get to everything. The storage is also washable, which is important when keeping your cosmetics sanitary. This organizer comes in black, white, or lucite - get the design that best matches your space.
"This organizer was very easy to put together," one customer said. "The adjustable shelves work great. Because it's vertical, this organizer uses little counter space. It is easy to rotate, which is important because it's in the corner. Great design. Great product!" We are totally convinced that this is the space-saving solution we need to stay in order this year. Get one for yourself before they're all gone!
28 Gorgeous Wildflower Tattoos For Free Spirits
If you're stuck on what to get inked, consider going the flower route. On top of obviously being aesthetically beautiful, floral designs can be personalized to hold a whole lot of meaning, from representing your birth month to capturing your personality. For all you free spirits out there, wildflower and botanical tattoos would especially be fitting! You can choose to keep it minimal or go crazy with bunches and color. Get inspired by one of the 28 stunning ideas ahead.
This Miracle Eye Gel Is Up 9,000% in Sales on Amazon - It Will Vanish Your Dark Circles
For years I have dealt with annoying dark circles and puffiness under my eyes. That's why I was excited to hear about Baebody Eye Gel ($24). It's currently exploding in sales on Amazon by 9,000 percent, and for good reason. It claims to drastically reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, sagging, or wrinkles. Customers are absolutely loving it, posting photos of their results.
Almost ten thousand people have reviewed the eye gel, and 67 percent of them give it five stars. To use it, you dab the product around the eye area two times a day, once in the morning and once at night. Most customers say that they start seeing impressive results after using the formula for one week.
So how does it work? The ingredients include hyaluronic acid which hydrates and plumps skin, Matrixyl 3000 which firms skin, and plant stem cells to strengthen and protect against damage. You can check out the customer reviews to see photo after photo of real results.
Will you give this magical eye gel a try? I personally can't wait to order it. You better get it before Amazon sells out!
11 New Hydrating Skincare Products That You Need to Try in 2018
If you're in the mood to treat yourself, one of the easiest ways is by picking up a few new skincare items. Whether you're suffering from dried out skin or you're on the hunt for a new anti-aging cream, these hydrating picks can give you the boost you need. We rounded up list of newly released products that are worth a try. From brands like Kiehl's and Garnier, your skin will love soaking up these soothing choices.
10 Inspiring Filipina Beauty Stars You Need to Start Following STAT!
The internet's abuzz over Harper Bazaar Vietnam's recent cover, which featured not one, not two, but three Filipina beauty queens slaying. The women were Kylie Verzosa, Miss International 2016; Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2015; and Megan Young, Miss World 2013. All three were dripping in black lace a la Vietnamese fashion designers, Tuyet Li and Bea Valdes, and sporting slicked back hair and varying red lipsticks. To celebrate, we're filling you in on 10 more Filipina beauty infuencers that are 100% worth a follow!
These Naked Yoga Photos Are Gorgeous and Totally #SFW
Doing yoga can help make you feel clear, calm, and stripped of any negativity, anxiety, or insecurities. And to get you deeper into feeling pure and blissful, you might find practicing without clothes on can help you reach new levels of clarity, openness, and joy. Or you might think it's totally crazy and would rather find inspiration seeing other people do it. Here's a gallery of gorgeous yogis doing yoga in nothing but their skin. Don't worry! They've strategically placed their limbs and the camera so you won't see anything that might make you blush.
If You Love Orangetheory, This Treadmill-Focused App Might Be Your Next "Class"
Gone are the days when you have to go to an IRL fitness class to get the same workout, and a new app called Studio is perfect for runners. The app allows you to get a boutique-style treadmill class with an instructor's audio-based directions plus a playlist, all while remaining on your own treadmill, whether that's at the gym or at home. Studio offers "boutique group running classes that pair a motivating instructor with a killer playlist at any time that's convenient to you." Studio is available for download in the app store for iOS devices, and it proves that workout apps are a rising trend.
While you will be running solo on the treadmill, Studio strives to deliver the same group-based motivation you'd find in a class full of people. You can compete in real time with everyone else through a data-based leaderboard (if you have an Apple Watch, that is). Everyone who uses the app can select different levels (from beginner to expert) and music based on their preferences, and the portability of the service makes it great for sticking to your workout routine while traveling. Each week, Studio does a music theme, which could be anything from a Lady Gaga run to an '80s run.
Essentially, if you're a fan of Mile High Run Club, Orangetheory, or Barry's Bootcamp, you might find this app-based experience a refreshing alternative for when you don't want to fit a class into your schedule. As for the price, you can subscribe for one month for $15 or for one year for $100 - a decidedly lower price than the Peloton Treadmill. Studio also offers the ability to try it for free for two weeks. If glancing at printable treadmill workouts while you're in the middle of running isn't your thing, this might provide the structure that works for you.
Sorry, but Here Are 5 Important Reasons You Should Stop Drinking Diet Soda
Different people have different vices. Some can't live without coffee, while others just can't resist that afternoon chocolate pick-me-up. Diet soda is yet another vice that many folks feel like they can't live without. As painful as it may be to hear, though, diet soda is one of those things that we would be better off without. Don't believe us? Here are five reasons you should give up this common beverage once and for all.
It Causes Bloating
Fizzy drinks may feel cool and refreshing, but they don't do your belly any favors. Drinking carbonated beverages regularly can cause bloating and general discomfort in your digestive tract. If you're in need of a tasty cold drink, reach for unsweetened iced tea instead.
It Can Cause Weight Gain
According to a study from the University of Texas Health Science Center, people who drink diet soda have a greater risk of becoming overweight. Even if you just drink one or two cans a day, studies show that your waistline could increase by 500 percent. Even if you're not trying to lose weight, it's smart to stay away from these kinds of drinks, because gaining an excess amount of weight can lead to serious health problems down the line, like high blood pressure and higher risk of heart disease.
It Alters Your Body's Natural Hunger Hormones
Researchers from Birzeit University in Palestine recently found that drinking diet soda increases the production of the hormone ghrelin, which regulates your hunger impulses. When ghrelin is elevated, you feel much hungrier, even if you don't really need to eat yet. This can lead to overeating or gorging on junk food, both of which can cause weight gain or general digestive discomfort.
It Can Mess With Your Mood
It may sound surprising, but the ingredient aspartame, which is extremely common in diet soda, can alter your mood. You might feel angry, upset, or just downright cranky - and for no reason at all. This is especially an issue for people who struggle with anxiety or depression.
It Has Serious Effects on Your Health
Did you know that drinking diet soda every day can make you 44 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack than those who don't drink it at all? It's a scary number to stomach, but that's the reality that a study from the University of Miami discovered. Similarly, a daily diet soda habit can make you much more susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes.
Trade in your diet soda for something else tasty and healthy, like kombucha, unsweetened tea, or green juice. Your health will be much better in the long run.
The Debilitating Anxiety Symptom No One Ever Talks About
Until only recently, I kept a big aspect of my anxiety hidden from the world because I was deathly afraid of the consequences I would suffer if I talked about it. I was already fearful of the judgment I may experience from opening up about my anxiety, but this was huge. What if people thought I was actually crazy? The anxiety of this backlash made me feel physically ill, and I felt like there was no one I could turn to who would understand.
I'm talking about intrusive thoughts, which the Anxiety and Stress Disorders Institute of Maryland say "become obsessive, provoke fear and shame, and often lead to doubts about sanity, control, motives, character and safety." It's common in those struggling with general anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorders, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
A majority of my life has been spent dealing with anxiety, so as far as I can remember, this symptom has always affected me. I never understood why frightening images and scenarios would pop into my head, leaving me anxious and scared. I didn't know I was experiencing intrusive thoughts or why they were disrupting my reality.
People who suffer from anxiety often experience these episodes where they see an alarming event playing out in their head. These intrusive thoughts are frightening scenarios we create, causing us to think of harmful things we might do to ourselves or people we love.
The thing is, though, we would never act on these thoughts, and we know that, but we feel the fear as if they are really happening, and they make us incredibly uncomfortable. These thoughts are an automatic reaction and completely out of our control. Our brains become a movie reel of thoughts and actions we play out in our mind, and we can't look away.
When I was a kid, these intrusive thoughts came in the form of monsters, like the ones you saw in movies. Despite knowing monsters didn't exist, they came alive in my mind and gave me physical symptoms of fear. Sometimes it would get to be too much, and I would hide under my covers and cry at night. I knew in my mind nothing could hurt me because there was physically nothing there, but I couldn't understand why these images haunted me.
I just wanted to get to my destination, but these thoughts would keep running through my mind, and I couldn't stop them.
As I gained more life experiences, my intrusive thoughts developed into other fears. Now that I was older, these thoughts turned into new scenarios, ones that felt more real. For example, when I started driving, I'd see myself veering off the road, hitting a side rail, flying off a ledge, or running head-on into a semi. I didn't really want to do any of these things. I just wanted to get to my destination, but these thoughts would keep running through my mind, and I couldn't stop them.
I've learned that these intrusive thoughts are our brain's coping mechanism for fear. They distract us from the anxiety we are feeling in real life with a fictitious event we can focus on instead. This is your brain's way of trying to help you with the anxiety you're experiencing in real life. It's as if your brain is telling you, "Look, I know you're afraid, but it could be worse, so whatever is going on isn't that bad."
Believe it or not, my childhood monsters have followed me into adulthood, and I still see them when I get anxious. Because I've been experiencing them for so long, I've mostly become numb to their effects. However, I do pay attention when these intrusive thoughts surface, as it's an indication that my anxiety is off the charts and I need to stop and assess myself.
I've opened up about it to only a few of my closest friends; one has anxiety and confirmed that she herself experiences the same thing. She thought she was crazy like me and didn't dare tell a soul for fear of judgment and ridicule. It was relieving to both her and me that we were not alone.
I want those who don't experience intrusive thoughts to know this is not something to be alarmed about. We are in no way looking to hurt ourselves or anyone else, we are just trying to cope with our anxiety. If someone close to you experiences these intrusive thoughts, just love and support them. That understanding will help ease the anxiety we feel from even having these thoughts. Know, though, that this is not a problem you can solve; this is a process that we will go through regardless.
If you struggle with intrusive thoughts, share them. The more we share these experiences, the better we can understand ourselves and others and the more we can help each other. Know you are not alone and you are not crazy.
For resources and information about intrusive thoughts, please visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
The Workout That Helped Tracee Ellis Ross Look Flawless For the NAACP Image Awards
Tracee Ellis Ross may be Hollywood royalty, being Diana Ross's daughter and all, but there's no doubt that she's carved out a legendary name for herself over the past several years. At the 2018 NAACP Image Awards on Jan. 15, Tracee won Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her lead role in Black-ish. This wasn't surprising, because anyone who has seen the show knows that she plays the matriarch of the family with as much heartfelt emotion as laugh-out-loud humor.
Along with taking home the award, Tracee had an especially successful night on the red carpet. She wore a slinky gold, sequined dress that hugged her curves perfectly, and her statement fur coat added a layer of glam to the ensemble.
The spaghetti strap dress showed off her toned arms, and we can't help but stare at her hourglass figure and wonder what her secrets are to looking so fit and healthy. Lucky for us - and for you, if you've been wondering the same thing - we don't have to guess. Tracee absolutely loves the Tracy Anderson method, and it's the one workout she does most regularly.
You'll often find Tracee in a Tracy Anderson band class, and she loves to take photos or videos of herself sweating profusely and giggling uncontrollably. We're pretty sure nobody has ever had more fun working out than Tracee Ellis Ross, and we're inspired to enjoy our workouts more because of her!
Listen Up! These 5 Things Might Be Making Your Period Cramps Even Worse
Do you tend to want curl up on the couch with Netflix during that time of the month? If so, you're certainly not alone. Unfortunately, while you might feel extra tired and a bit crampy, you know that life still goes on when you're on your period and you've got to make the best of it. While you might not be able to completely avoid all the less-than-pleasant symptoms that come with having your period, there are certain things you can avoid to possibly feel a bit better. Here are five things that can sometimes cause menstrual pain and some potential solutions.
Certain exercises
According to Rachel High, D.O., an OB-GYN and fellow at Baylor Scott & White Health in Central Texas, current research indicates that light exercise such as easy-paced running on a treadmill or low-impact exercises like yoga and Pilates can improve unpleasant menstrual symptoms such as pain and emotional changes. "Even if you might not feel up to doing your usual hour-long run or high-intensity Spin class, doing a different activity and taking it easy are still more likely to help than to hurt," she said.
Alcohol and sweets
It can be tempting to reach for chocolate during that time of the month, but it turns out it can sometimes worsen your symptoms. "It is recommended to limit alcohol and sweets or desserts because they can cause blood sugar spikes, bloating, and more fatigue," said Starla Garcia, M.Ed, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian in Houston.
Caffeine
"Caffeine has been shown to have some diuretic activity, which could predispose women to dehydration," High said. "While it is also a stimulant, which can potentially irritate the uterus and increase cramping, avoiding caffeine hasn't been proven to improve to decrease menstrual pain." So if your morning cup of coffee is a typical part of your routine and keeps you sane more than it bothers you, you may find that you're better off sticking with it, she said. However, if you have an iffy relationship with caffeine as it is, avoiding it while on your period may be a good idea.
Stress
While stress doesn't necessarily worsen menstrual pain, it can worsen mood changes. Most people can't completely avoid stress, but they can add something that calms them to their day, such as going on a walk with good conversation, doing yoga, taking a warm bath, or playing with their pets, High said.
Not eating at least three meals a day
While the standard recommendation is to eat three meals a day, if you feel nauseated, you should try to have several smaller, more frequent meals, Garcia said. "You just don't want to end up going very long periods of time without anything in your stomach, because it can lead to stomach acidity and nausea," she said. "Eating frequent meals can also help you keep consistent energy levels up and from blood sugars dropping that leave you feel weak, tired, moody, and irritable."
15 Ground-Chicken Recipes That Are Finger-Lickin' Good
Poultry doesn't have to mean boring. You'll be craving seconds when it comes to these lightened-up burgers, flavor-packed (yet healthy) chilis, satisfying stir-fries, and guilt-free lettuce wraps - all loaded with chicken, just minus the fat. New year, new you, new white-meat recipes that don't suck.
A 30-Minute Walk-Run Treadmill Workout That Anybody Can Do, Especially Beginners
If getting better at running is one of your goals but you're still new to the game, incorporating more walk-run workouts into your routine will help you build up the endurance and strength needed to run a whole mile without stopping. Luckily, Michael Olzinski, Purplepatch endurance coach and Equinox run coach, has created an exclusive 30-minute walk-run treadmill workout for POPSUGAR, so you've got every reason to lace up your shoes and get to the gym.
"This is a great workout that can really help someone learn how to handle a running session with good form and good hip power," Mike says. "Good running is all about good, stable hip alignment and letting the glutes do the majority of the work."
This workout is split up into power walking and hill runs. "Power hill walking is a great way to establish that connection in your body, and then doing some light running after it will help you run in great form, allowing you to progress in a happy, healthy way," he concludes.
The Workout
You'll start with a five-minute warmup that will be performed off the treadmill. "Take your time here, and don't skip a chance to loosen up and get the body ready for some movement," Mike advises. No matter what kind of rush you're in, you should never skip your warmup!
After you get the body nice and loose, you'll start alternating between a power walk at an incline and a light run on a much lighter incline.
You'll actually only spend 25 minutes on the treadmill because your warmup will take about five minutes. Do three rounds of the following movements to get yourself warmed up before you start running:
- Marching high knees, 30 seconds
- Air squats, 15 reps
- Shoulder circles, 15 reps
- Jumping jacks, 15 reps
Here's your main workout:
| Time | Speed | Incline |
|---|---|---|
| 0:00-5:00 | Power walk (about 4.0 mph) | 8.0 |
| 5:00-8:00 | Easy run (about 6.0 mph) | 1.0 |
| 8:00-13:00 | Power walk (about 4.0 mph) | 8.0 |
| 13:00-16:00 | Easy run (about 6.0 mph) | 1.0 |
| 16:00-21:00 | Power walk (about 4.0 mph) |
8.0 |
| 21:00-24:00 | Easy run (about 6.0 mph) |
1.0 |
| 24:00-25:00 | Recovery walk | 0.0 |
The 1 Simple Thing You Can Do to Reduce Your Stress Right Now
Lately, I have experienced heart-racing, stomach-turning signs of stress interrupting my day and ruining my ability to sleep through the night more times than I can count. I realized I needed to make a change in order to take back my life from the constant stressors. But I wasn't able to remove all of them - hectic workdays, budgeting crises, and disagreements with my significant other will inevitably happen!
I turned to SHIFT, a stress and anxiety workshop lead by Chris Swayne, psychotherapist and lead health coach at One Medical, to learn ways to manage my symptoms for when these moments arise. Along with mastering deep-breathing exercises, Chris taught me that understanding what is happening inside of my body during stress is an important step toward finding the right practice to alleviate stress symptoms once and for all.
Your Body on Stress
When you body perceives a threat - which may come in the form of moving to a new apartment, having a difficult conversation with your significant other, or tightening your budget - it springs into action. Our physiological stress response is also known as "fight or flight", which we humans have been preprogrammed with since our caveman days running from sabertooth tigers.
"During this [fight or flight] response, your body pumps itself with adrenaline and cortisol. You may experience changes to your breathing, tension in major muscle groups, such as your legs and shoulders, and digestive issues like a loss of appetite as your body prioritizes blood flow to areas that mobilize," said Chris. "It can be understood as our biological impulse to survive."
Stress Intervention
While our fight or flight response can threaten to hijack our day, interventions such as deep breathing exercises and other self-care practices can give you a moment to pause, regulate your heart rate, and calm down.
Deep breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, which "is responsible for certain sensory activities and motor information for movement within the body," according to Medical News Today. "Essentially, it is part of a circuit that links the neck, heart, lungs, and the abdomen to the brain." The vagus nerve sends signals to your brain and body to remind you you're not in imminent danger so you can tackle your day.
While there are a variety of breathing exercises out there, you don't need anything to get started - just yourself. Take a few minutes right now and give it a try.
Deep Breathing Exercise
- Find a quiet space if it is available to you, otherwise sit tall in your chair (at work, at home, or wherever you may be reading this!) for a moment of stillness. "Bring awareness to your breathing as it is. Without judging or changing anything, first simply notice what's physically happening," Chris instructed.
- Bring your focus inward, giving awareness to your breath. "As this happens, continue to tether your awareness to noticing the air entering and leaving your body."
- Start breathing. "Allow yourself to take a full inhale, directing the breath all the way down to your low belly, and slowly, fully exhale," Chris advised. Bring mindfulness to your practice by gently placing your hands on your belly and chest to feel the rise and fall of your inhalations. Repeat three to five times, or until you begin to feel your stress ease. Don't get discouraged if this feels uncomfortable the first time; just try again once you're ready.
- For further grounding, shift your thoughts on pressing your feet to the floor (if sitting in a chair). As Chris put it, "Quite literally focus on your connection with the ground."
As with any practice, it takes time to discover the and technique that works best for you. I've found it helpful to set an alarm for 3 p.m. every day (the time I usually become most stressed or unfocused). I take a pause and a few deep breaths wherever I am at. While at first this might seem foreign, I promise, the more you practice your deep breathing, the more effective it will be.
Now get out there and conquer your day!
If You're Trying to Give Up Diet Soda, Here Are 4 Tips That Will Get You There
By now, you've probably heard about all the reasons you should pass on diet soda. It causes bloating, weight gain, and mood swings, and it can even increase your risk for heart attack and Type 2 diabetes. The sooner you can nix this beverage from your diet, the better. But it's easier said than done, so instead of leaving you out in the cold to fend for yourself, here are some useful tips for kicking diet soda out of your life.
Have a Game Plan to Wean Yourself Off
If you give it up in one fell swoop, you'll likely have a really hard time kissing diet soda goodbye. If you have a diet soda every single day of the week, aim to only have five next week. And the week after that, only have three. By gradually cutting down, you give yourself the chance to adjust slowly and effectively to a life without diet soda. Before you know it, you'll be having zero diet sodas a week!
Find Tasty Replacement Beverages
We get it - that cold, fizzy drink is refreshing AF. Just find something healthy to replace it. A great substitution is kombucha; it's slightly carbonated because of the fermentation process, so it will satisfy that craving. However, it's packed with all kinds of benefits. It's a strong probiotic that improves your digestive system, and it's generally low in calories and contains no artificial sweeteners. Another good replacement is unsweetened iced tea or even a cold green juice. The options are endless!
Drink a Lot of Water
Many people don't drink enough water as it is, and this might sound particularly familiar if you drink a lot of diet soda. When you give up this beverage, you may feel a little dehydrated because you aren't getting as much fluid into your system. Toss back lots of water throughout the day to ward off headaches, fatigue, and a foggy brain.
Stay Away From Junk Food
When you're weaning yourself off of something you're addicted to, you may feel inclined to reach for other equally dangerous vices. Maybe the lack of diet soda will make you crave potato chips or brownies, but instead of grabbing whatever is most convenient, stick to whole foods and healthy snacks, whether it's a homemade granola bar or a banana. The healthier you eat all around, the more likely you'll be to stick to your plans of giving up diet soda. Good luck!
10 Healthy Chili Recipes to Cozy Up With This Winter
Winter cuisine can be a struggle for those of us who are trying to get a head start on our New Year's resolutions-to-be. And while we love the comfort and spice from a bowl of great chili, it doesn't exactly scream diet-friendly.
But just because chili is hearty doesn't mean it has to be unhealthy; there are plenty of ways to cut the calories without cutting the flavor profile. In fact, many of the main components, including meat, beans, and chilis, are not inherently fattening and can in fact work well into a resolution-worthy meal rotation. It's the toppings - just a few scoops of sour cream and a handful of shredded cheese - that push chili into the trouble zone for calories and fat.
These healthy chili recipes prove that dieting - or simply just trying to stay healthy - isn't only possible during the wintertime, it's delicious.
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