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.
samedi 10 mars 2018
This Website Will Create a Free Wedding Hashtag in Seconds!
Coming up with a wedding hashtag is no joke. It's hard to create something that's fun and unique and fits the personality of the couple getting married. Before you start stressing out, use a free wedding hashtag generator to come up with one for your big day.
The hashtag generator is easy to use. Plug in the names of the couple and the wedding date and then pick a style option: classic, fun, or offbeat. Tap the "Generate Hashtag" button, and you'll get a hashtag in a few seconds. You can save it as a favorite and check to see if it's appeared on Instagram or Twitter before. Don't like it? Just hit the "Generate New Hashtag" button. You can see what the website looks like below.
The website was created by WeddingMix, a wedding photo and video company. You should definitely try it at least once; it's so simple to use and makes it easy to check whether or not your hashtag is taken. If that's not enough inspiration for you, check out our list of creative hashtags.
25 Tricks to Make Your Bedroom Feel Extracozy
Winter is still very much in full swing, and some of us may have a few months of it left. But instead of letting the thought of dark, cold days get you down, take some time to turn your bedroom into a sanctuary. With the addition of soft, plush textures, the right color choices, and some smart design tricks, it's never been easier to turn your humdrum bedroom into a cozy Winter hideout! Discover ahead some of our favorite ways to make your bedroom feel cozier.
GIF Stickers Just Arrived on Instagram Stories, and They're Absolutely Glorious
Here's a fun fact about me: if you ever catch me staring intently at my phone and tapping at it with reckless abandon, chances are I'm not looking at my email or checking social media; instead, I'm messing around with a photo or video. I can spend hours placing teeny tiny Easter eggs, tweaking the layers and contours, and, since Messenger launched an AR feature that's out of this world, adding that little extra somethin' in Messenger to top it all off. As a result, it should come as no surprise at all that when I learned that Instagram Stories was adding a GIF stickers function, I was over the moon with excitement. And after a full day of testing it out, I'm absolutely obsessed - and can't recommend highly enough that you hop into Instagram and start playing with GIF Stickers right away. But first, let's walk through what the new function is (and, of course, how to use it).
The new feature is part of the Instagram version 29 update, which rolled out on Jan. 23 to all iOS and Android devices. The GIF stickers can be added to any still photo, video, or boomerang in the Instagram app - and you can share them in your stories as well as download and save them for later. "From bouncing letters and twirling hearts to dancing cats and pizza in space, these animated stickers help you make any photo or video funny, interesting or creative," Instagram announced in a blog post, noting that the feature will allow users to tap into GIPHY's massive library of GIFs to find the exact right one that lights up a photo or video. With just a few quick finger tweaks you can make it part of the scene, as if it was always there all along. Or, if it's more your cup of tea, you can add something that totally doesn't belong in the scene - and collapse in giggles at the resulting masterpiece. In other words, get ready to have a ball.
It's also worth noting that there's a hidden gem within Instagram's announcement: finally, you soon won't have to crop a photo to make it work as a story. "In the coming weeks, we're also rolling out the ability to upload photos and videos of any size to your story - so you never have to lose part of a photo or cut a friend out of a group video," the post reads. "When you upload a photo or video, pinch to share it in its original dimensions, whether it's square, portrait or landscape. Any extra room will be filled with a custom color gradient that matches what you've shared." How cool is that?
Ahead, we'll walk through exactly how to use the new GIF Stickers feature on Instagram Stories. But be forewarned: once you start, oh man is it hard to stop. So make sure you've got some time to play around, because there's literally no way that you won't want to go back through your photo library and make every photo and video pop.
Slay All Day With This Feminist Emoji App
On March 9, Getty Images and Eboticon announced a new product - and it's one that you'll want to download immediately. Femmoji Feminist Emojis is a new mobile app that boasts a huge collection of awesome emoji and stickers that represent the absolute power and badassery of women. The Statue of Liberty proudly thrusting a tampon in the air. A woman nodding her head while wearing both a hijab and Beyoncé's iconic wide-brimmed black hat from the "Formation" music video. A woman in armor brandishing an awesome sword. A woman who has bigger muscles than me who could easily whoop my ass into next week. These are the kinds of fantastic things you'll find when you download the Femmoji app.
As an added bonus, all of the amazing assets for the app were created and designed by women as well.
Told you it's fan-f*cking-tastic. What are you waiting for?!
You'll Want to Watch This Mesmerizing Supernova Flash GIF Over and Over Again
NASA scientists captured images of a supernova, or an exploding star, for the first time on March 21, 2016 and we are totally transfixed by the video. While NASA has been able to see supernovae for some time, they were only capable of obtaintaing video of the ephemeral flash by monitoring 500 galaxies every 30 minutes for three years. And we're so elated they did.
Scientists used a Keplar space telescope to catch the star as it burst - it's the same telescope that has successfully discovered thousands of other planets. The supernova in the video, technically named KSN 2011d, is a red supergiant, which has the greatest volume of all the star classifications though they are not the biggest stars in size. Supergiants are also considered to be some of the most luminous stars - and that's definitely apparent here! Keplar was able to spot KSN 2011d's 20-minute blast, despite being 1.2 billion light years away. We're not exactly sure how far away that is, but we're positive Google Maps cannot get you there. The discovery is a monumental step in dissecting the life cycle of stars and it's especially indicative of how different classifications of stars end their life cycles. As NASA analyzes its findings, we're just going to sit mesmerized by the supernova's explosion. Maybe after several hundred loops we'll watch this video of two black holes colliding.
Why You Must Clean Your Earbuds ASAP - and How
You probably use your earbuds all day - during your commute to work, work itself, and your commute home. As many times as you pull them in and out of your bag, you probably don't think often enough about keeping them clean. Unsurprisingly, earbuds can transmit bacteria from person to person if they're shared, and in some cases can even cause ear infections. Clearly they need to be kept clean, but what's the best way?
Obviously you can't just toss your earbuds in the dishwasher to clean them. While doing some research, I came across a few suggestions of how to properly clean earbuds. Here's how:
- Use a gentle cleaner, like soap and warm water. No need to go too heavy-duty here; try a mix of dishwashing detergent and water.
- Use a gentle cloth with just a small amount of the soap mixture. Too much soap could leave a residue on your earbuds, and too much water, well that goes without saying.
- If there's a lot of dirt or dust in the metal part of your earbuds, try brushing them with a dry toothbrush to dislodge the dust.
- Some earbuds, like Apple's In-Ear Headphones, come with removable (and replaceable) silicone covers, so try removing them and cleaning those separately.
- Never submerge them in water. You'll damage the wiring. Ditto for running them under the faucet, even for just a second.
- Remember to only clean your earbuds when they're detached from your iPhone or other device!
The 10 Most Popular Reddit AMAs of 2017
One of the best things about Reddit is the amount of exposure you can get to strong, important voices that perhaps don't have the proper platforms to get themselves heard. As a result, Reddit AMAs make for some of the most fascinating reading material available on the internet today – and, of course, finally give Redditors the chance to turn the tables on those who do have a platform to speak on and ask the questions that they may not have otherwise answered in a public setting.
Luckily for us, Reddit's gone ahead and pulled together the 10 most popular AMAs of this year as part of its annual year in review, and it makes for the best kind of after-the-fact reading when you're traveling or looking for something to lazily read as you relax on your time off. Ahead, from Bill Gates to a local weatherman to the man who played Goofy at Walt Disney World for more than 25 years, you'll find the best AMAs that Reddit had to offer in 2017.
18 Hilarious Sext Message Fails That Will Make You LOL
No matter the stage of your relationship, one thing about sending a sexy text message stands true: sexting is a lot harder than it seems. While you may try to be cheeky with your boo, sometimes things just come out wrong, resulting in painfully hilarious conversations.
But if you're terrible at sexting, the good news is you are not alone. We've gathered some incredibly awkward screenshots that prove being a bad sexter is nothing to be ashamed of - in fact, it's actually pretty funny. Read on to check them out.
The 14 Fantasy Series Every Bookworm Must Read
Looking for the ultimate list of geeky reads? Ahead, we're highlighting our editor's picks for must-read epic fantasy series, with all the elements of the genre: a large cast of characters, a magical alternative world, and complex, integrated plotlines. And if science fiction is more your thing, bookmark our guide to the greatest sci-fi reads too.
Drapple Is a Thing All Harry Potter Fans Need to Know About Right F*cking Now
Harry Potter fans are many things. Creative, brilliant, hilarious, and sometimes, we're a little weird. I talked with Tom Felton aka Draco Malfoy at the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hollywood, and I obviously had to ask him the most important hard-hitting question of all: what's his favorite pair to ship in the Harry Potter world? When he asked me if I knew what "Drapple" was, everything I thought I knew about Harry Potter, Harry Potter fans, the internet, and life in general flew out the window. Basically, Drapple is a romantic relationship pairing that fans ship, or pull for, and it involves Draco Malfoy and an apple. A green one, like the one that started this madness in a scene in Prizoner of Azkaban. I actually felt like a terrible fan for not knowing about this, um, unique ship, which people argue is canon because, OK technically it is.
He does caress one lovingly in The Half-Blood Prince as he pulls it out of the Vanishing Cabinet. And the way he bites into that crisp, juicy fruit in The Prisoner of Azkaban does seem sexy, I guess? Sh*t, I think I've spent too much time in the depths of Tumblr . . . because am I shipping Drapple now too? No, for me, it's Dramione for life. Here's some of the internet's most creative Drapple memes, GIFs, and fan art that may have you weirdly shipping the pair but will definitely have you laughing out loud.
The 10 Best Spring Break Destinations For 2018
It's that time of year again: Americans are heading to sun-soaked beaches and infamous party spots for Spring break vacations. Breaking up the long stretch between Winter and Summer is a must. Whether it's local beaches in the US or trending Caribbean islands, it's never too early to start planning your Spring break getaway.
10 Cult Quotes That Need to Be Included in Your Wedding
We draw a lot of inspiration from TV and film for our real-life events, so if you and your betrothed are passionate about a certain show or nerdy interest, then there's no reason to leave it out of your wedding day. Don't want to go all-out for a themed wedding? Consider incorporating these words of love into your wedding vows or readings for a subtle touch of geekery.
9 Ways You Can Go on a Cruise While Barely Spending a Dime on Board
Cruises are a great travel option for several reasons: they're mostly all-inclusive, you're able to hit multiple ports on a single trip, and they give you more bang for your buck overall. On top of many being fairly affordable to begin with, there are more ways you can save money once you're on board. And if you stick to what's included in your boarding pass, it's possible to avoid spending all together once you're sailing. Here are nine ways you can cruise on a tight budget.
- Bring your own wine and soda. Most cruises allow guests to bring up to one bottle of wine or champagne on board. I suggest enjoying it in your cabin rather than bringing it to the dining room to avoid corkage fees. You also have the option of bringing up to 12 sealed cans of soda in your carry-on to drink throughout your sail, since soft drinks are often an additional cost.
- Fill up on all the pizza and ice cream. Take full advantage of the 24-hour soft serve machines and complimentary pizza served on your ship. Your midnight snack and daily dessert are already covered right there.
- Unplug. Unless you're planning to get some work done, consider disconnecting for the duration of your sail. Not only is WiFi pricey, but it's also not as fast as you're used to while you're out in the middle of the ocean.
- Know what your ship offers for free. Your boarding pass usually includes free meals at the buffet, meals in the dining room, certain room service items, and free slices at the pizzeria and complimentary soft serve ice cream on some ships. However, all it takes is a little extra digging to see what else is available for no additional cost.
- Keep alcohol to a minimum. Alcohol is not included in your stay and this is where many guests end up splurging the most. All those cocktails can really add up by the end of the week, so consider signing up for an unlimited drinks package if a sober sail is out of the question. I recommend pre-purchasing your package before your sail date since it's typically cheaper than when you buy on board. And that way, you can start getting your money's worth ASAP.
- Pack buffet food on port days. Before disembarking at your destination, fill up on breakfast at the buffet and bring some bites for the road. Bananas, muffins, and mini boxes of cereal are great to snack on while exploring.
- Explore on your own instead of booking an excursion. Excursions can cost you around $50 to $150 per person. Not only does a DIY adventure save you major cash, but you'll also be able to avoid having to stick with a large group. Do some port research beforehand and pick your own activities.
- Save unfinished wine for the next night. If you order a bottle of wine at dinner and don't end up drinking it all, ask your waiter to cork it for when you return. They'll write your name on it and have it ready for you the next evening.
- Control yourself at the casino. One of my personal favorite cruise features is the casino (depending on the cruise), but that's also where most of my cash ends up. If you can, avoid it all together or set a strict spending limit at the very least.
See the Over-the-Top Perks of an Emirates Airline Business-Class Flight
I'm not usually one to travel in what you'd call "luxury." I'm a bargain-hunting adventurer who picks the cheapest seat on the plane and who is happy as long as there's a bed to fall into at the end of the day. Or a hammock. Or a sleeping bag. However, that doesn't mean I can't appreciate or, in fact, immensely enjoy it when an extravagant opportunity presents itself. Enter: Emirates business class. The airline is known for being one of the best in the world- and it truly lives up to that status, from its impeccable customer service to its top-of-the-line planes, particularly the business- and first-class sections.
On my recent trip to Thailand with Pandora Jewelry for the opening of a new crafting facility, I was able to experience the palatial features of Emirates business class. I flew from Bangkok, Thailand, to Dubai, UAE; had a layover in Dubai; and then flew Dubai to LA - both legs of the flight (one seven-hour and one 17-hour) were in Emirates business. With large big-screen TVs, personal minibars, full meals and drinks available the entire flight, and so many movie and TV options I couldn't keep count, the flight was a far cry from your average trip - and I loved it.
In addition to the regular perks of flying business class, like priority check-in, a fast pass through security, access to airport lounges, and included food and beverages, Emirates (especially Emirates Airbus 380) offers a unique level of luxury you'll be hard-pressed to find with many other airlines. From an actual lounge on board the plane to seats that recline fully flat, touchscreen technology, and gourmet dining, it's an experience that's worth having (at least once in a lifetime) if you're in the mood to majorly splurge. The downside is that this glamorous method of travel costs well above your average ticket price and can end up costing more than your trip itself. Take a look at the over-the-top features of Emirates business class.
21 Headphones That Are Freaking Adorable
If you're going to rock headphones at the office or on your commute all the time, they might as well be cute! Think of a pair of headphones as an awesome accessory - a techy addition to your ensemble, if you will. We've rounded up the fiercest headphones we could find, so check them out!
- Additional Reporting by Macy Williams
28 Memes That Accurately Describe How Awesome You and Your BFFs Are
Best friends are the people in life that know you so well, one look is all it takes for them to get how you feel. And there are just some things only they would appreciate - like when they convince you to take another drink (but show up to your house the next day with a hangover burrito) or when they text you their bodily functions.
After all, it's thanks to your best friends that you make the best and worst decisions of your life, knowing that they'll always be there no matter what. Check out some of our favorite memes from Instagram that perfectly capture these BFF moments.
Don't Look Down: Traveling With Anxiety as a Flight Attendant
Before working as a flight attendant, I was able to use yoga to keep my anxiety under control. Over the past couple of years my new, high-stress job has invited my anxiety to creep back in. It rose to an all time high last Summer, when I had frequent panic attacks before work and an anxiety-induced headache that lasted two weeks. I became convinced that I could no longer fly. However, with a lot of trial and error, I figured out a few ways to calm the storm in my mind. I still have anxiety, but it no longer controls me. While I am by no means a therapist or psychiatrist (I'm just a yoga teacher turned flight attendant with anxiety!), here are my favorite tips for traveling with anxiety that I've found helpful - and hopefully you will, too.
1. Wear Ear Plugs
One of the reasons we get so stressed and anxious when we fly is due to the intense sound waves that raise the cortisol (stress hormone) levels in our body. Sounds above 85 decibels (sound waves at common cruising altitude) are harmful and long exposure can cause hearing problems. With decibels peaking at 90 to 140 during take off and landing, wearing ear plugs helps to maintain healthy hearing, as well as calm the nervous system.
2. Practice Grounding
Grounding is the simple act of walking around with your feet in the grass, ocean, soil, or whatever natural footing is available in your new destination. The practice has been scientifically proven to balance the energy in your body with the positive charge from the earth. It helps tremendously with jet lag, which can often set off anxiety.
3. Meditate
It doesn't have to be fancy. If you're a novice, start with your eyes closed, take 10 slow breaths in and out of your nose, and try to focus on the sensation of your breath. Count your breaths if you get too distracted. Meditation is a fabulous way to ease the physical symptoms of anxiety (increased heart rate, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, etc).
4. When You Can Sleep, Try to Sleep as Well as Possible
Things that help me are ear plugs, an eye mask, and lavender oil. The ear plugs ensure no noisy ice machines or loud party guests next door wake you. The eye mask helps your body's circadian rhythm sync to whichever time zone you are in. The lavender oil allows the senses to calm.
5. Hydrate!
Buy water, bring a water bottle to fill, or freeze it to get it through security (trust me, it works!). Having water on hand helps to keep your brain functioning properly and takes the stress out of waiting in line to buy some.
6. Find a Quiet Space in the Airport
This can be extremely difficult at times, but it is worth the hunt. These days, several airports have either a chapel/mediation room and or even a yoga room! If your airport does not have these rooms, look for a quiet hallway. Hint: they're generally between terminals.
Airports with yoga rooms:
- San Francisco Airport (SFO)
- Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)
- Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
- Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW)
- Burlington Airport (BTV)
- Sioux Falls Airport (FSD)
- Helsinki Airport (HEL)
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
- Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
7. Pack Snacks
Plan ahead as to not rely on airport food. Some airports have decent options, but having all of your meals and or snacks with you (as much as possible) will take some of the anxiety out of the trip.
8. Take Your Meds!
Maybe this should have been number one. I never had a prescription for Xanax until I became a flight attendant. If you think you have an anxiety disorder you should talk to your doctor, especially if you travel frequently. If you are against taking any prescription drugs (which I definitely understand), try Maca root. This ancient Peruvian root is an adaptogen (a substance that may increase resistance to stress) and also a proven mood enhancer.
9. Have a Support System
Have some of your best friends and/or therapists on call for you. It helps if you can have someone on call who also experiences anxiety. There are an increasing amount of therapy apps as well that are less expensive than cognitive therapy (such as Better Help).
This Smart Home Device Is a Lifesaver For Anyone With a Yard
Prior to buying a house, I associated all outdoor sprinkler systems with hose-attached versions that doubled as Summer entertainment for kids. It wasn't until I attempted to operate the '80s-era sprinkler system in my newly purchased home that I realized all sprinklers are not created equal. Despite only having two buttons, the sprinkler system was incredibly complicated and required me to memorize zones and push a +1-minute button 20 times to water the yard for 20 minutes. Needless to say, I realized I'd need an easier system equipped with 21st century technology if I wanted the lush, verdant yard of my dreams. Enter the Rachio Smart Sprinkler System ($180). I never thought I would say I love a sprinkler controller, but in all seriousness, this is a game changer for my sanity, my plants, and my water bill.
This sleek white sprinkler system is expensive at $180 for an eight-zone version, and my house, of course, required the larger system to cover all 16 zones, which set me back nearly $300. After spending a pretty penny on plants, it seemed silly not to purchase a tool that would keep them alive. Since it's a one-time investment piece, I can now say it was well worth the splurge.
Why I love it!
The system was pretty easy to install and only took about an hour. Once installed, I connected the controller with the Rachio app on my phone, and each sprinkler zone was set up with a name and photo, so it was easy to tell which zone was which.
Within the app, you can create different schedules depending on what is planted in the zone. These watering schedules can be based on just days of the week, or if you want Rachio to water based on your local climate, it can potentially save you from watering on those rainy days. These schedules allow me to water my veggies more frequently in Summer but keep those more established plants to fewer watering sessions. Rachio sends push notifications when it is altering watering schedules, so if the weatherman is wrong and we didn't get quite as much water as anticipated, it is easy to override.
My backyard does not just belong to my husband and me but also to several squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and possums. While my husband and I are mindful of the drippers I have lovingly placed on each plant, these critters don't care one bit and have designated certain areas of my backyard as their own personal digging playground or highway. So on a monthly basis, I will go around the yard to make sure none of the drippers has been moved. Prior to Rachio, I would have to run into the garage, remember the zone, and click the +1-minute button a million times (probably closer to 20) and quickly check the drippers and repeat 16 more times to cover every zone. Now with the Rachio, I just open the app, find the zone, and select the amount of time with one swipe.
If you are new to gardening, the Rachio will suggest how much time to water depending on the soil type, plants, location, etc. So even those with a black thumb have a pretty good chance of turning it green. I know this is a lot of money for something that few people will see, but trust me, it is worth the splurge.
13 Ways to Get Through Airport Security Faster
The more you fly, the more the novelty of the whole process wears off. And those movie scenes where people sprint for flights and actually catch them just in time? Not so fun in reality. Airport security is the literal roadblock between you and your destination, and whether you're late for your flight or you just don't want to stand in a line full of people who can't seem to remember that, yes, you do still have to remove your full water bottle from your carry on and, no, you can't walk through the metal detector with metal on - you want to get through security fast. And ideally with the least amount of stress. Here's how to make it through security quickly and efficiently.
1. Have your ticket and photo ID out before you approach the security agent.
From check-in through security, you should keep your ID and ticket somewhere easy to reach. You'll have to pull both out several times, so don't put everything away in some deep, dark place in your bag - have both in your hands and ready to present so people behind you don't have to wait for you to dig around trying to find them. If you're using a mobile boarding pass, make sure to lock the direction of your phone screen so you can scan it without issue.
2. Wear shoes that are easy to take on and off.
Most (not all) airports still require travelers to remove their shoes before going through the body scanners or metal detectors. You can save a lot of time and hassle if you wear shoes that are easy to take off, like slip-ons or anything without laces. Have your shoes already in hand before it's your turn to send your things through security. Don't wait until the very last minute to remove them.
3. Examine the lines before you choose yours.
Avoid lines with large groups who are together, extra supplies (instruments, child carriers, sports equipment), and travelers with large carry-on bags and loads of extra items like jackets, toiletry bags, laptops, etc. People with extra items or those who aren't very savvy about the security process will slow you down. Try getting in a line with a solo traveler or someone who seems to know the process pretty well already.
4. Pack like a minimalist.
The less you carry on, the better. Each time I travel, I restrict myself to one single bag that has everything I need, and I leave what's not necessary at home. If I'm going on a longer trip and really need to check a bag, I try to put most of my extra items in that one so that I don't have to go through security with them.
5. Empty your pockets.
Check your pockets, then check them again. Don't be the person that has to go back through the scanner three times just because you forgot that random quarter in your back pocket or because you accidentally tucked your phone somewhere. Dump the contents of your pockets in a bag beforehand to save yourself the struggle and awkwardness of doing several runs through the checkpoint.
6. Get rid of your drink.
I refuse to buy a million different water bottles when I fly, because it can seriously add up. So chug your water or whatever you're drinking while you're in line waiting to go through security, and finish it up before it's your turn to send your things through. That way you can refill it when you get to your gate. Just don't forget you've got a drink on you, otherwise you'll have to toss a full bottle if it ends up going through the scanner.
7. Get your laptop out before it's your turn to load the conveyor belt.
Don't wait until the last minute to start digging through your carry-on bags to get out your laptop while everyone behind you has to wait. While you're in line, start prepping your belongings to go through the security check. I always organize everything in groups, keeping my laptop separate from everything else, because large electronic devices must be placed in a different container than miscellaneous items like shoes, belts, wallets, etc.
8. Don't carry on items you don't absolutely need for the flight.
If you're already checking a bag anyway, then try to pack your toiletries, liquids, electronics, and any other cumbersome items in your checked bag instead. If you don't absolutely need a belt to hold up your pants, skip wearing one so you don't have to deal with taking it on and off. If you don't really need your hand lotion until you get to your destination, skip packing it in your carry-on - and pack only the important travel stuff instead.
9. Be polite to airport employees.
If your bag gets flagged for an extra inspection, or if you get pulled aside for an additional body scan, be polite to the TSA agents. The more cooperative and agreeable you are, the more motivated everyone is to help expedite the process so you can get on your way. More likely than not, you've accidentally left something in your bag that you can't have, and the airport employees are just doing their jobs!
10. Choose your flight times with care.
If your flight departure and arrival is flexible, then research the airport you're departing from and find out what days and times are the busiest for them. You can arrange your flights to avoid these times so that when you arrive at the security line, you can breeze through.
11. Know where the less-crowded security checkpoint is.
Many travelers crowd around the checkpoint closest to where they checked in for their flights, but oftentimes, there are other checkpoints that may be a little bit of a longer walk, but they may have shorter lines, thus saving you time and trouble in the long run.
12. Upgrade your flight.
Sometimes seat upgrades can be pretty reasonable - depending entirely on the airline, where you're going, and how full your flight is - and certain upgrades allow travelers to skip the regular security lines. If you're loyal to certain airlines, frequent flyer benefits can also help you get priority perks like this.
13. Get TSA PreCheck.
If you fly frequently, it really is worth looking into. Travelers must apply, pay a fee, then go through a screening process to determine if they are eligible. If you are, PreCheck allows you to take the faster line at security, and you don't have to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, etc. when going through. If you travel internationally, you can even get Global Entry, which provides expedited pre-approved security perks that aren't limited to US travel, and it also qualifies you for TSA PreCheck when you are traveling within the US.
15 Healthy, Protein-Packed Dishes That Will Make You Fall in Love With Ground Beef
Sometimes in the pursuit of a healthy diet we assume beef is bad and should be removed entirely from our usual meal routine. But that isn't always the case - cooking with lean beef can be a healthy decision that won't limit or restrict your diet. Lean beef is packed full of nutritional and necessary vitamins that support muscle growth and an overall fit lifestyle. Packed full of iron, B-12, and other vitamins, lean beef provides an excellent source of protein to any meal plan. These recipes include lean beef in a tasty yet healthy way and are equally as delicious as they are well balanced.
DIYs to Nail the Perfect Bohemian Home For Less
While nothing beats scoring at a thrift store, pulling off a DIY can be the next best way to bag the boho look for less. If you've been eyeing hippie home fashion but can't swallow the irony of splurging to partake in some of the trends, these DIY decor tutorials will help you do just that. Check out the creative and surprisingly affordable options we've culled from around the web!
Source: The Hunted Interior, Preciously Me, Honestly WTF
30 Living Rooms That'll Make You Want to Redecorate Immediately
You've got your bedroom looking cozy and the kitchen has been overhauled. Now it's time to turn your attention to the living room. Luckily, the lounge is one of the easiest rooms in the house to redecorate: a lick of paint, a new sofa (or cover) and some cleverly chosen ornaments, throws, and cushions are often all you need. The following rooms cover all styles, from minimal Scandinavian-inspired design to upcycled boho, and will inspire your next living room revamp. It's time to start hoarding paint samples!
These Are the 10 Hottest Hollywood Hair Colors For 2018 - According to Experts
The old way of thinking - dark hair in the Winter, lighter hair in the Summer - is so outdated. In 2018, you can rock any damn hair color you please, be it denim blue, ashy blond, or almost-black brunette. Just make it your own and wear it with confidence.
To help you choose your next hue - or hues, because rainbow hair is still a thing - we consulted master colorists. They weighed in on what hair colors will reign in 2018 on Hollywood's red carpet, in your Insta feed, and along your neighborhood sidewalk. From vivid duo-tones to rich cinnamon, true gray to honeypot blond, the spectrum is a colorful and inspired one.
I Bought Glossier's Solution to Clear Up My Acne - and It Did the Opposite
It took me about two minutes after seeing Glossier's Solution on Instagram before I decided I needed it. Like all Glossier products, it's sleek, beautifully packaged, and moderately priced, and it targets a specific skincare need. Just like some of the models in Solution's before-and-after photos, I have a case of stubborn red spots and discoloration, mostly on my cheeks, that I've been striving to clear up for over a year now. Solution ($34), a liquid exfoliator, claims to combat that exact problem and deliver results within four weeks.
A couple days after reading one of our editor's reviews and ogling the multiple testimonials from women who got early access to the product, I was convinced this could be the last piece of the puzzle in my journey to clear skin. I added the product to my cart, along with a restock of Wowder ($22) and Balm Dotcom ($12), just two of several Glossier products that have become my staples. That's what's important to know given my unfortunate experience with Solution: I truly love Glossier and have had nothing but perfect experiences with more than 10 of its skincare and makeup products. The makeup-melting Milky Jelly Cleanser ($18) is a repeated purchase of mine, despite the fact that its name contains my most hated edible item in the universe. It's that good.
When my Solution arrived in the mail along with yet another trusty pink pouch (I have an embarrassingly high number of those), I could hardly wait for nighttime so I could test it out. That night, I double cleansed (residual makeup and acne are close friends), saturated a cotton pad with a few pumps of Solution, wiped it all over my face, and followed with moisturizer. The next morning, I woke up with a patch of small red bumps on my cheek and a big, red pimple above my lip that quickly turned into a whitehead. My anticipated "hell yes" reaction to this product was quickly replaced with a "f*ck."
I know Solution is the miracle product many women have been waiting for, and there are tons of glowing reviews from people who claim it has done amazing things for their skin. "My skin is the best it has been" and "Can't live without this" are just a couple of the five-star reviews below the product. I wish I were one of those people, but instead I relate to other reviews from women who've said "Unfortunately, it caused a terrible breakout" and "I fell into the group of people for whom this chemical exfoliator does not work at all." By scanning the 400-plus reviews, I've noticed that many women have had the same reaction of red bumps and new pimples.
The bottom line is, everyone's skin is different! If you also have sensitive, breakout-prone skin and are wondering if this liquid exfoliator could cause irritation, read on to hear more about my experience and what multiple dermatologists had to say about it.
10 Best Shampoos For Oily Hair
For those of us who have oily hair, it seems like it's a constant battle to not have our hair look like it needs to be washed - even if we just washed it that morning! The secret is finding gentle cleansing shampoos that break up oil and keep hair looking healthy and soft. You don't want to dry your hair out, but rather keep it balanced and beautiful, and these shampoos are perfect for keeping that oily scalp at bay.
The Disney-Inspired Beauty at Opening Ceremony's Fashion Show Will Have You Aching For a Trip
Fashion shows are already regimented and chaotic, but what happens when the fashion show ends up at Disneyland? Complete insanity? Turns out the well-oiled Disney machine makes the experience a smooth and organized show, and because childlike wonder comes into play, you have a hell of a good time.
Opening Ceremony hosted its Spring 2018 fashion show, which was inspired by the '60s and '70s, at Mickey's Toontown in Disneyland, allowing attendees to take over the park after hours for what it deemed "The Happiest Show on Earth." We're sure many of you are wondering why, as did we. Turns out, in addition to showcasing their own collection, Humberto Leon and Carol Lim collaborated with Disney on a second collection inspired by Mickey himself. The Mickey True Original collection includes the iconic Disney star printed on tees, silk dresses, denim jackets, sweaters, and windbreakers.
The collaboration makes sense for the designers, who both grew up in California - Humberto even sported a Mickey Mouse tie and cummerbund to his prom. Disney has some of the most loyal, die-hard fans, and the House of Mouse brought out a variety of celebrities for the show, including Chance the Rapper, who was spotted at the park earlier in the day with his family, Diplo, Laverne Cox, Maya Rudolph, Fred Armisen, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Holt, Jamie Chung, and even Donald Duck.
Click through to see the homages to Disney within the beauty looks, read the inspiration for the hair, nails, and makeup, and see a few exclusive videos from the runway show.
We Learned Madonna and Kim Kardashian's Best Beauty Advice
Madonna is a legend. Her music has a place in everyone's life, whether they like to admit it or not. She is a style icon, too, having reinvented her look for every album release. The pop star has a career that spans over almost four decades, and even still, she's a hot commodity - she's selling out tours while pushing 60. People still dress up like her for Halloween; they wear vintage concert tees with her name plastered on them.
Kim Kardashian West burst onto the scene in 2007 and is easily the biggest influencer on the planet. Especially in places like Los Angeles, you'll see handfuls of women who could all be replicas of the Armenian star on every corner. Kanye West aptly created a campaign for Yeezy Season 7 in which "Kim clones" took over our Instagram feeds, showcasing new looks from his collection on women with straight, long extensions, a tiny waists, and large derrieres.
Both women have icon status. They're both mothers. And now, they're both beauty moguls: Madonna founded MDNA Skin in 2014, launching last year in Barney's, which includes a patented, mineral-rich thermal water from Italy; Kim launched KKW Beauty online. And it's fitting for both: Madonna, a classic; Kim, always looking for ways to connect. On a Tuesday night at the Youtube Space in Los Angeles, a meeting of the minds took place: Madonna and Kim sat with moderator Kandee Johnson to discuss their beauty inspiration and skin care routines. The night also celebrated the launch of MDNA Skin's new Reinvention Cream ($75), in which a portion of the sales will go to Madonna's non-profit, Raising Malawi. We were there! Here are some of the best moments from the discussion.
Kim on Meeting Madonna For the First Time
KKW: "She, for a period in her life, moved in with her manager, who happened to be our next door neighbor growing up. Kourtney and I would walk - our parents were good friends with her manager - so we'd walk their dog after school. So everyday we'd go over and we'd see Madonna. We were shaking."
Madonna: "I was being moody in the kitchen."
KKW: "It was a moody phase. And I just remember so vividly, her coming in one day, wearing jeans and a white T-shirt and these combat boots, and she had dark short hair, and this leather jacket. And she just walked and was like, 'You know what, girls? I'm over these bracelets,' and took off her bracelets and gave us these black rubber bracelets."
Madonna: "They don't make those bracelets anymore!"
KKW: "She gave us this shoe box full of all this neon jewelry. Kourtney and I went to school the next day and our friends were like, 'That is so cool, where did you get those?' And we were like, 'Madonna gave it to us!' And they were like, 'Yeah, right.' They didn't believe us."
Madonna on Her Daily Beauty Routine
Madonna: "I sleep on my face. So I wake up with puffy eyes. It's disgusting. It's the worst position to sleep in."
KKW: "I'm a side sleeper."
Madonna: "You're smart. So when I wake up, my eyes look like small planets, so I made these eye masks that are filled with serum and I put them in the freezer and then I lay there. Sometimes I use cryo-sticks. And I cannot speak to anybody. I just sip lemon water. I can't function or speak to anybody, or work, or deal with life until my eyes aren't the size of planets. And then people can talk to me. Including my children. (Laughs) Actually, your kids are the only ones who get to see you ugly, right? They don't care. They start to care when they're 12. I've noticed there's a turn. Actually, I was Facetiming with my son the other day, and I had a pimple. And I don't get pimples very often and he's like, 'What's with your skin, Mom?' So that's really my beauty routine. A lot of ice in the morning. A lot of caffeine."
Madonna on Her Beauty Icons
"For me, it was about Hollywood glamour and movie stars and women like Marilyn Monroe, Marlene Dietrich, Rita Hayworth. I said all their names in my song, 'Vogue,' but they were the personification of beauty to me. Feminine beauty. They looked like they all took good care of their skin - I don't know what they looked like in real life. They had good lighting."
On Their Best Beauty Advice
Madonna: "I avoided sunbathing and I never smoked. I feel like those two things, until I could afford skin care, saved me."
KKW: "I got so much skin care advice from my mom and my grandma. My mom was a stewardess for American Airlines, so all the girls would save their money for - she's here, so if I'm saying it wrong, Mom, just got with it - it was some beauty class they would teach you tips for. So when they'd stop at their destinations, all they wanted to do was go to this beauty class. So what she learned was that you should exfoliate your face with a hot wash cloth at every washing. So she's lived by that."
Kim on Why She Loves Giving Beauty Advice
KKW: "I love giving advice though. People always come to me. I love analyzing someone's face and going with them to a doctor and being like, 'Wait, a little Botox here.' That kind of advice. That's the advice I love to give. People write me, I will not say who, but some people in the business, people I've never met before will text me and say, 'Hey, this is so-and-so, I heard you give the best advice. Here are my pictures and tell me what you think I should do."
Madonna: "That's a lot of responsibility."
KKW: "Yeah. It's a liability." (Laughs)
Madonna on How the Reinvention Cream Got Created
"I've traveled the world and I've had a long career, thank God. I feel very blessed about that. I've had access to every kind of product, every kind of special treatment, every kind of spa, every miraculous mask. But a lot of it has to do with what I do for a living, performing. These lights that we're sitting under are 1/100th of the heat of the lights on stage. And being on the road eight months to a year at a time for me, being under those hot lights . . . You get up in the morning, you work out, you wash your face. Then you put a little bit of makeup on because you have to go to the soundcheck and there will be cameras there. Then you have to wash your face again. Then you have to put more makeup on for the show. And you're basically being baked in a microwave on stage. Then you finish the show and you've sweated all your makeup into your pores. Then you go home and take a shower. So your face is undergoing this kind of brutal abuse. I'd think, 'What can I do to protect my skin?' I did use a lot of products."
12 New $6 NYX Lip Cream Colors Are Comin' at You Hot
NYX has an almost dauntingly impressive amount of lipsticks that all clock in for under $10, so we wouldn't blame you for not knowing where to start when it comes to reaping the benefits of this drugstore brand. So here's a friendly PSA: kindly direct your attention to these 12 new Soft Matte Lip Cream shades, which are a wonderful place to begin.
Most of these hues are dusty, burnt neutrals that range from a soft pink to dark gray. Although these apply like a cream, each one dries into a neat matte finish. Despite the delicate look, these puppies are long-lasting - plus each one smells sweet and fruity. At $6 a pop, you can buy 'em all.
Read on to see the new additions.
This Tattoo Pain Guide Will Help Determine Your Next Ink
Let's get one thing straight: tattoos hurt - plain and simple. On an objective level, this should be self-explanatory; after all, a tattoo is a form of body modification that involves using a needle to penetrate pigment through and into multiple layers of skin (fun!). But that still doesn't stop the masses - my pretattooed self included - from googling "do tattoos hurt?" on an obscenely regular basis. What is not so obvious, however, is that they hurt (and heal . . . and wear) very differently based on where you get them.
With eight tattoos decorating various parts of my body, I can confirm this is indeed the truth. So to help inform or inspire your next (or first) ink, we're breaking down what to expect in terms of pain, healing, and wear on all of the most popular tattoo spots. Just remember: these are general guidelines only. Pain thresholds and healing speeds can vary significantly from person to person. Happy inking!
I Tried This Teeth-Whitening Charcoal From Amazon (It's a No. 1 Bestseller and Made My Grin Glow!)
I am always looking for ways to have a movie-star-glowing grin, so I was excited to find this popular Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder ($25). It's the No. 1 bestselling option on Amazon, it has over 14,000 reviews, and 77 percent of customers give it five stars.
I decided to put the product to the test myself. Step one was to wet my toothbrush. Then I dipped it into the powder and brushed my teeth like I normally would. (Make sure to rinse your mouth with water really well so no black residue is left behind.) My teeth were significantly whiter after a week of using it.
Wondering how charcoal works? The brand explains it best. "Derived from the highest-quality coconut sources, Active Wow's activated charcoal formula is safe to use for whitening your teeth, while being easy on your gums. Active Wow naturally whitens your teeth, not through harsh dental-grade whitening peroxides, but through the power of activated charcoal, nature's best purifiers, and detoxifiers."
If you'd like to see reviews, check out the amazing photos on Amazon. There are countless pictures that prove how well it works.
If you're looking for a noticeably brighter smile, I suggest giving this stuff a try. It doesn't leave you with a weird taste in your mouth - just dazzling teeth.
The New Glossier Product Stars Wore on the Oscars Red Carpet Is Finally Here
Last month, the makeup community collectively freaked out when Glossier announced Beyoncé was wearing the brand's new and top-secret product on the Grammys red carpet.
Hours before the Oscars, Glossier revealed that Queen Bey was wearing Lidstar, and we looked forward to seeing many other celebrities wearing the new product at the Academy Awards. Among the stars who got the privilege to follow in Beyoncé's makeup footsteps were Allison Janney, Greta Gerwig, Tiffany Haddish, Maya Rudolph, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Salma Hayek.
A few makeup artists have blessed us with images of the cool new product, and Glossier posted glistening swatches of the six new ultrametallic shades on Instagram. We're obsessed with looking at the new product on our favorite stars during the Oscars and can't wait to try out Lidstar for ourselves.
The new formula is described by the millennial brand as a cream eye shadow that doesn't require primer and won't crease, fade, or smudge throughout the day. A doe-foot applicator is included in the sleek tubes to make applying to your lids fast and easy. The six shades are available on Glossier's website for $18 each or $30 for two shades.
Johnny Weir Has 1 Simple Mascara Tip to Make His Eyes Look Bigger
Don't come for me, but I watched the Winter Olympics solely as a celebration of Johnny Weir's flawless skin. (OK, and also because I was way too invested in hoping that Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir are dating IRL). Not only did Johnny document all the K-beauty goodies he picked up in Pyeongchang, South Korea, but the figure skating commentator also blessed us by wearing over-the-top Hunger Games-inspired hair accessories that are too fabulous for words. In short: the Games left us wanting to pick his brain for nuggets of beauty wisdom, along with the desire to raid the 21 suitcases he brought to Korea with cohost Tara Lipinski.
"Just being me, myself, and I makes me happy. I'm not against just prancing around my house in underpants."
I had the chance to speak with Johnny at his first post-Olympics gig as a spokesperson for CoolSculpting, a belly-fat-burning technology he turned to last Summer to get rid of his "wine gut" (his words!). I was excited to ask Johnny any beauty tips he could share after years in the spotlight, but his answer was somewhat surprising. "I never wore that much makeup on the ice, because you actually get a deduction in your score if it's too theatrical," he said.
However, there's one area he always enhances if he's going to skate. "I'm lucky to have long eyelashes. But for performances, you're standing in the middle of the ice and being whited out by the lights. You want last person sitting in the last seat in the top row to see you, so a nice mascara is an awesome thing."
His go-to is Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll ($32), but he doesn't just slather it on willy-nilly. "I don't have huge, open eyes," he admitted. "I like to call my eyes 'crescents.'" To make everything really pop, Johnny says he "just puts a little bit of mascara on the outer corners."
Along with that, Johnny admits that "it's all about skin care" for him. "Hyaluronic acid is how I prep and prime my face, and how I've kept a luster to my skin despite spending the majority of my life in an ice rink," he told me. "Because of the conditions that I live in, I need a really heavy cream to give me vibrancy," so he opts for the ultraluxurious Cle De Peau La Crème ($795). As he explained, "It's a luxury item, but it's a product I really believe in, and one container lasts for a year."
Another must have? "Snow White is my beauty muse in many ways," the pale-skinned skater says. "I try to stay out of the sun. But when I am in it, sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen."
When he's off the ice or out of the announcer's booth, Johnny prefers a more natural look. "I don't wear makeup at home or in my normal life. The less, the better. At work, I'm constantly bundled and constantly giving look, so just being me, myself, and I makes me happy. I'm not against just prancing around my house in underpants."
10 Highly-Rated Foundations For Oily Skin That Are Worth the Hype
Having oily skin can some days feel like a curse but it doesn't necessarily have to mean all doom and gloom. First of all, having oily skin means you get to fend off wrinkles a little bit better, because you know that slick layer of oil that descends upon your face promptly around lunchtime everyday? It actually helps seal in moisture where you need it most - your face! Second of all, there are some incredible, revelatory products available now that can give you the matte finish of your dreams.
If you're prone to oily skin, there are certain things to look for, such as oil-free and sheen-free formulas, matte finishes, and water-based foundations. Scroll through to check out a host of foundations that have a cult following and were made specifically for oily skin.
10 Magical Products From Sephora That Actually Live Up to the Hype
You've heard the hype. You've researched and contemplated. But sometimes it takes a little nudging to finally take the plunge and buy that product you've been wanting to try forever. There were a few products lingering in my Sephora shopping cart, but it wasn't until I read the reviews on the Sephora Beauty Insider Community that I was finally motivated to hit "buy now." From tried-and-true favorites to new releases I spotted all over my Instagram, here are the 10 products I added to my haul after taking some friendly peer advice. And I'm so glad I did!
7 Products You Need to Add to Your Routine to Survive the Season
As a beauty editor, I like to think I know all the tips and tricks when it comes to hair care, skin care, and makeup. But one visit to the Sephora Beauty Insider Community and I was totally schooled on all things beauty this Winter. The community is filled with real women, when combined, have more knowledge and insight than any "expert" I've ever interviewed. What started out as a simple search for a new moisturizer to help with the dry patches that always pop up this time of year, turned into a full-blown black hole of useful information, helpful ideas, and following along with fun and engaging threads. Read on to see how I rehauled my Winter beauty routine thanks to the help of some pretty savvy reviewers.
How Facebook Is Empowering Women to Take Action
When social media is used as a tool to do good, the effects can be powerful - sometimes even life-changing. Never has that been more clear to me than as I sat beside Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg and an impressive group of women who are using the platform in unique and compelling ways. From a 30-year-old woman who gathered a community of nearly 90,000 Israeli women to others who turned their birthdays into meaningful fundraisers, the women who gathered at Facebook's Menlo Park campus for International Women's Day had one thing in common: they're using social media to lift up others. Particularly other women.
As we sat down for lunch, Sandberg invited the women to share their stories. I expected to hear a detail or two about how each of them has incorporated Facebook tools into their work, but instead I listened to emotional, deeply personal, promising stories of real women making an impact. Their drive felt contagious.
How Women Are Taking Action
Sandberg herself is a force. "As women, we systematically underestimate ourselves. People underestimate us. Men apply for promotions when they meet some of the criteria; women apply for promotions when they meet all of the criteria," she said. When Moore mentioned that she was recently promoted, Sandberg led the group in applause. "Every promotion for every woman - it matters," she said. "It matters."
She's right, and sitting at the table with those women, I was struck by how they're working to build up other women, not just themselves. There's Crystal Chanel, who used Facebook to dig herself out of a financial crisis after being laid off. There's Maria Green Povarchick, who created the Israeli Supergirls community - a name inspired, she said, by the group's nearly 90,000 women who "want to do it all." There's Vanessa Puopolo, a mother who created a supportive Facebook group of more than 37,000 moms. I met Crystal Chanel, who used Facebook to build a business after being laid off, and Angel Moore, who brought the Alameda County Fair's Facebook presence up to more than 100,000 followers with zero marketing experience under her belt.
"Every promotion for every woman - it matters."
I was inspired by the story of Joyce Wang, who asked Facebook friends to support a local nonprofit, AnnieCannons, for her 35th birthday. Run by CEO Jessica Hubley, AnnieCannons helps women who are survivors of human trafficking by teaching them to code and helping them find tech jobs. Wang far surpassed her $300 goal, raising $3,680. Likewise, Natalie Hunter Rockefeller turned to friends and family to help her support Arkansas's Women and Children First, the domestic violence shelter where she volunteers, and she raised more than $4,000.
It's important to share these women's stories because, as Sandberg put it, they're leading the charge while "reaching back to bring others with them."
The Impact of Women Helping Women
One of the day's most profound takeaways came from Musimbi Kanyoro, CEO and President of the Global Fund For Women, who sat beside Sandberg as a special guest. "You must do something that goes beyond yourself," she said. "It's much more brave to do good for others."
Crystal pointed out the significance of women helping one another. "We are the educators of the world, we are the nurturers of the world, we have the communities that we're part of on our backs - and we carry them wearing our high heels," she told me. "Seeing all the diversity in the room, it reminds us that woman is woman, and we all have this amazing responsibility that we take on with a sense of pride."
"It's much more brave to do good for others."
For Angel, the experience at Facebook confirmed what she's already begun to witness in her own life: women coming together now more than ever. "We're supporting each other as women here today, but more than that, I feel myself supporting women outside this room. I'm starting to feel that more as a woman. We're lifting each other up . . . and for me, I almost feel like a weight's lifting off my shoulders."
I understood exactly what she meant, and I felt the same way: hopeful.
"People drag social media sometimes, but . . . this is what social media does," said Vanessa. "It's not just horrible stories. It's people affecting the lives of other people in real, tangible ways. This stuff happens all the time, and it's coming from these women."
Sandberg's philosophy and the attitude of the women using Facebook's tools echoed my conversation with Maxine Williams, Facebook's chief diversity officer. I had the opportunity to speak with Williams ahead of the luncheon, and as we discussed her efforts at Facebook, she emphasized the power that arises when attitudes shift. "One needs to adjust one's mindset," she said, in order to enact change.
"We're stronger together," she told me. "The most important thing is to understand that lifting up one of us lifts us all up - including the lifter. We all benefit."
How America's First Reporter to Wear a Hijab on Air Landed Her Dream Job and Made History
Tahera Rahman had been a producer at her local news station for two years when she realized she was ready for a career change. Rahman applied for an on-air position at WHBF - a regional station servicing cities in Illinois and Iowa - and though she was qualified, some employers and mentors had their concerns because she proudly wears a hijab, and it simply hadn't been done before.
Rahman did everything she could to get the gig. "I knew that I was going to do what it took to be ready for that role; to be the perfect candidate for the job," she told Today. Finally, on Feb. 8, Rahman delivered her first broadcast and became the nation's first full-time TV reporter to wear a hijab on air.
Her story garnered a lot of attention and, shortly thereafter, Rahman received an outpouring of support from all over the world. "People from Mexico, Sweden, Eastern Europe telling me that they all stand behind me and are cheering me on." She added, "People from all over Iowa who have invited me to have dinner with their families and speak with their daughters."
There are, unfortunately, some viewers who haven't been so supportive - and Rahman says she feels sorry for them: "I hope that one day they can see me for what I see them: a friendly neighbor who is working hard, just like thousands of other everyday Americans, to achieve their goals and make their communities a better place in some small way."
"There's no reason your hijab should be a barrier."
Right now, she's not letting anything ruin her excitement. "It feels like I'm doing what I should be doing," she said. "There's no reason your hijab should be a barrier . . . Just because someone, or multiple people, might tell you so, doesn't make it true." Learn more about her inspiring story by watching her interview with Today's Megyn Kelly above.
GIF Stickers Just Arrived on Instagram Stories, and They're Absolutely Glorious
Here's a fun fact about me: if you ever catch me staring intently at my phone and tapping at it with reckless abandon, chances are I'm not looking at my email or checking social media; instead, I'm messing around with a photo or video. I can spend hours placing teeny tiny Easter eggs, tweaking the layers and contours, and, since Messenger launched an AR feature that's out of this world, adding that little extra somethin' in Messenger to top it all off. As a result, it should come as no surprise at all that when I learned that Instagram Stories was adding a GIF stickers function, I was over the moon with excitement. And after a full day of testing it out, I'm absolutely obsessed - and can't recommend highly enough that you hop into Instagram and start playing with GIF Stickers right away. But first, let's walk through what the new function is (and, of course, how to use it).
The new feature is part of the Instagram version 29 update, which rolled out on Jan. 23 to all iOS and Android devices. The GIF stickers can be added to any still photo, video, or boomerang in the Instagram app - and you can share them in your stories as well as download and save them for later. "From bouncing letters and twirling hearts to dancing cats and pizza in space, these animated stickers help you make any photo or video funny, interesting or creative," Instagram announced in a blog post, noting that the feature will allow users to tap into GIPHY's massive library of GIFs to find the exact right one that lights up a photo or video. With just a few quick finger tweaks you can make it part of the scene, as if it was always there all along. Or, if it's more your cup of tea, you can add something that totally doesn't belong in the scene - and collapse in giggles at the resulting masterpiece. In other words, get ready to have a ball.
It's also worth noting that there's a hidden gem within Instagram's announcement: finally, you soon won't have to crop a photo to make it work as a story. "In the coming weeks, we're also rolling out the ability to upload photos and videos of any size to your story - so you never have to lose part of a photo or cut a friend out of a group video," the post reads. "When you upload a photo or video, pinch to share it in its original dimensions, whether it's square, portrait or landscape. Any extra room will be filled with a custom color gradient that matches what you've shared." How cool is that?
Ahead, we'll walk through exactly how to use the new GIF Stickers feature on Instagram Stories. But be forewarned: once you start, oh man is it hard to stop. So make sure you've got some time to play around, because there's literally no way that you won't want to go back through your photo library and make every photo and video pop.
The Bumble Dating App Just Banned Photos With Guns in Them
Image Source: Stocksnap / Rawpixel
Organizations across the country have been addressing gun violence in their own ways in recent days, and now Bumble is stepping up to the plate. The company that created the popular dating app, which was built "with safety in mind," announced March 5 that they would be banning guns across all platforms.
Bumble began originally as a dating app designed to flip gender dynamics on their head by giving women the power to make the first move. It has since evolved into a networking platform to help people find new friends and even career opportunities in addition to romantic partners.
"We just want to create a community where people feel at ease, where they do not feel threatened, and we just don't see guns fitting into that equation," Whitney Wolfe Herd, Bumble's founder and chief executive, told The New York Times. She also acknowledged that most gun owners are "hobbyists" and don't support gun violence, noting that the issue is "not super black and white." However, rather than simply ignore it, Bumble is doing something about it. The new policy will mean that existing and new gun-related content will be removed. Some other weapons, like knives, will also be censored. The release states:
Bumble was founded with safety in mind. From the start, our mission has been to build a social network rooted in respect and kindness. Online behavior can both mirror and predict how people treat each other in the real world. Bumble has a responsibility to our users and a larger goal to encourage accountability offline.
In the past, when we've had an opportunity to make our platform safer, we've taken action, banning hate speech and inappropriate sexual content from the Bumble app. As mass shootings continue to devastate communities across the country, it's time to state unequivocally that gun violence is not in line with our values, nor do these weapons belong on Bumble.
From today on, we will begin the process of moderating all new and previously uploaded photos for the presence of guns. Our terms and conditions will be updated to reflect this decision.
Bumble's statement announcing banned gun content also noted that the new restrictions will exclude "users in military or law enforcement in uniform." Furthermore, Bumble pledged to make a $100,000 donation to March For Our Lives, an initiative founded in the wake of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, which was started and led by students across the country seeking to address the issue of gun violence.
We were founded with safety, respect and kindness in mind. As mass shootings continue to devastate communities across the country, it's time to state unequivocally that gun violence is not in line with our values, nor do these weapons belong on Bumble. https://t.co/fC4rPlGJ8y pic.twitter.com/Qmy7zLatRP
- Bumble (@bumble) March 5, 2018
Articles
