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.
dimanche 11 mars 2018
I Did a 2-Minute Plank Every Day For 2 Weeks - Here's What Happened
When my team at POPSGUAR asked who wanted to try a plank challenge, my hand shot up. But back in my day (lol) when I was in college, a "plank challenge" consisted of taking photos of yourself lying face down, stiff as a board, somewhere crazy (it was a weird internet thing in the late 2000s). It was fun! This recent plank challenge however, was . . . not as fun.
I decided on challenging myself to hold a two-minute plank daily for 14 days to see if I'd notice any physical or mental differences by the end. While I was definitely feeling some toned and strong abdominal muscles, my biggest takeaway was about setting goals. Here are some things to expect on your own plank challenge.
You Can Customize It
Tip number one for this challenge: you can make it your own. I set mine to be a two-minute challenge because it felt like something I could do every day. Hard, but not so bad that I couldn't complete other workouts.
Additionally, pick a position that feels just challenging enough for your body and still accommodates for any discomfort or injury. I began this challenge in a high plank (top of a push-up), but a few days in, I decided it wasn't challenging enough, so I lowered myself on down to an elbow plank and finally felt a little bit of muscle shaking (woo!).
It Doesn't Get Easier
In two weeks time, doing a two-minute plank daily did not become a breeze. I had anticipated that a plank would feel like a cakewalk by the end of day 14, but alas . . . it was just as challenging as day 10, day four, etc.
You'll Feel Stronger in Other Workouts
One thing that I appreciated was the abdominal activation that ended up happening in my other workouts. I became acutely aware of my core and how I was using it in everything from strength training to SoulCycle. I did end up feeling like I had a stronger base from which to work off of - and since you use your core in basically everything, this was a nice little benefit of the plank challenge.
Feeling good about my strength and muscle from these planks!
You'll Want to Set an Alarm
I found that to keep myself consistent, it was important to set a reminder on my calendar. This ensured that I got it done every day and stayed on top of my small goal.
Two Minutes Is More Powerful Than You'd Think
One great thing I learned from this little experiment is that every minute in your day can be used for something powerful. How are you maximizing your day? What are you using each minute and each moment for? What are you wasting time on? Even a minute here or there dedicated to something that doesn't serve you can add up over time and deplete your emotional and physical energy. Channel your minutes into something that serves you.
You'll Learn the Importance of Setting Small Goals
If you're anything like me, you set BIG goals for yourself and often overlook the value of smaller ones. This was a lesson in not taking those smaller goals for granted and not undervaluing the power of adding something like this to your routine. If I can do a two-minute plank every day, what else can I do? Can I add two minutes of meditation every day? Maybe I could add one more strength-training move!
This small bit of goal setting reminded me of my recent conversation with celeb trainer and Revenge Body star Latreal Mitchell. "Limit yourself, and set realistic goals," she told me. "Set a goal for yourself that every day for one week, you're going to wake up early enough to eat breakfast." She noted that this was essentially the key to weight-loss success, but it didn't really hit home for me until I experienced my own minivictory.
If You're Exercising to Lose Weight, Don't Make These 5 Mistakes
You're getting into a routine at the gym, feeling stronger and working up a sweat, but you're not losing weight, which is one of the main reasons you started exercising in the first place. What gives?! Here are five common mistakes people make when working out that can prevent weight loss.
You're Only Doing Cardio
While it's true that cardio is great for burning calories, if you only run, bike ride, or swim, there's a missing link to maximizing your calorie burn: strength training. The more muscle you have, the higher your body's fat-burning potential, and weight training will help you burn more fat faster. That means you can do shorter workouts and get better results.
You're Skipping Intense Workouts
If you've heard of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), it's because it works! Experts agree that it's one of the best workouts for weight loss. This works for cardio and strength training and involves following a work-to-rest ratio, a popular one being two to one. That could be 40 seconds of working at 70 to 90 percent of your max followed by 20 seconds of rest. An example of HIIT could be running, biking, jumping rope, rowing, or swimming with sprint or hill intervals included, and/or a mix of strength-training moves like burpees, squats, plyometrics exercises like jumping lunges, or push-ups.
You're Inconsistent
A 20-minute walk once a day is great for getting blood flowing and getting fresh air, but it's not enough if you're trying to lose weight. The same goes for a yoga class or jog here and there - you need to be hitting the gym regularly for about 45 minutes, three to four times a week in order to see results. Commit to that if you're serious about slimming down.
Your Workouts Are Always the Same
If you've been working out and your weight loss has plateaued, it's a sign that you need to mix things up. When you do the same workout three to five times a week, your muscles become accustomed to it, so you need to tweak your workouts at least every six weeks. Or even better, do something different every time you work out. CrossFit or boot-camp-style workouts are great examples of this.
You're Not Paying Attention to What You Eat
What you do after your workout is important, too. Exercising regularly can often make you hungrier that usual, and you think "I worked out so I can eat anything I want!" Uh, nope! If you end up eating an enormous post-workout ice cream cone protein smoothie, or an extra couple snacks throughout the day, your calorie intake vs. calorie burn has evened out. In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit, so make sure you're not taking in the same amount of extra calories that you just burned.
Kori's Postpartum 34-Pound Weight Loss Started by Giving Up These 2 Common Foods
After Kori gave birth to her third child, she felt like she was ready to change up her diet and get her body back. While some people may follow a strict diet in order to lose weight, Kori didn't follow any diet whatsoever. All she did was cut back on certain foods (which you'll read more about below) and start working out more regularly. She's lost over 30 pounds already, and she feels better than ever!
Kori: Before
POPSUGAR: When did you start your weight-loss journey? What made you decide to?
Kori Burland: I started my weight-loss journey at Shred415 in January of 2017 after a long break during the pregnancy of my third child. He was 3 months old, and I was ready to feel good, be healthy, and get a version of my old body back.
PS: What was your starting weight?
KB: My starting weight was 157 pounds.
PS: How much weight have you lost so far?
KB: I have lost 34 pounds, and it took me about eight months to lose it.
Kori: After
PS: How did you do it? Did you follow a specific diet?
"I was ready to feel good, be healthy, and get a version of my old body back."
KB: I didn't follow a specific diet but started making more conscious and healthy choices. I began by minimizing unhealthy snacks and processed foods.
PS: Did you do a specific workout type or schedule?
KB: I take classes at Shred415, which is a 60-minute interval training class switching between treadmill and strength training. When I first started my fitness journey, I would go to Shred415 two to three times a week. Now I go to Shred415 three to four times a week, as well as attend Pilates and yoga classes whenever possible. I started at Shred415 in January with an ending treadmill warmup pace of 5.8 mph and told myself to increase my starting speed by 0.1 mph after one or two weeks. Setting small goals like that for myself helps keep me motivated.
"When I took my 'before' picture last January, I was embarrassed."
PS: What are some nonscale victories you've experienced?
KB: It's fun shopping for clothes and getting dressed again. I also feel like an athlete, which is a great victory for me, and I'm able to run much faster than when I started.
PS: How do you stay motivated?
KB: The instructors at Shred415 are the best at what they do. I hear them in my head all the time when I'm running and working out: "You are stronger than you think you are" and "You never know what you can do until you try!" I also make sure to remind myself often that I'm the only person who can do this for myself. Throughout this journey, my sister has been a huge motivator for me; we help each other stay committed to working out. The whole Shred415 community is extremely supportive!
Kori: Before
PS: What does a typical day of eating look like for you?
"My advice is just to start. Find something you enjoy doing and that has a good community and try it."
KB: I usually wake up and have something small, like half of a banana or half of an RXBAR. After attending my Shred415 class, I enjoy a Daily Harvest smoothie made with a plant-based protein powder. For lunch, my routine varies. I either eat vegetables or something fast, like rolled-up deli turkey. In the afternoon, I usually have a snack of beef jerky or popcorn. For dinner, I usually eat a lean protein, berries, and a vegetable, but truthfully, I am working on this area. With three kids five years old and under, it can be difficult to cook a meal for the whole family. I just started working with a nutritionist to find easy, healthy, fast meals that everyone will like.
Kori: After
PS: Any advice or tips for people on their own journey?
KB: I think my advice is just to start. Find something you enjoy doing and that has a good community and try it. When I took my "before" picture last January, I was embarrassed. I understood I had three kids, one of whom was a little baby, but still you see so many pictures on social media of moms who have a baby and are able to rock a bikini by three months postpartum. However, that wasn't me, and I didn't feel good about myself. I found myself motivated to make a change, so I jumped right in. I'm so lucky I had Shred415 to guide me through. I know that as long as I can get myself to the class and follow what the instructor says, I will feel amazing when I leave - and I do!
PS: Anything else you want to share?
KB: I want everyone to know that the reason I am sharing my story is to give someone else the confidence that they can make this change as well.
I Took CBD Oil For 7 Days For Anxiety - Here's What Happened
I have to admit, I'm nervous to share this story . . . in large part because of the stigma around marijuana, regardless of the reasons you're using it or which component of it you're using (THC vs. CBD, specifically). But that in and of itself made me realize how much more I do need to share this story. Because if we break through the stigma, there's a product here that has the capacity to change lives and help millions of people heal naturally. And no, it won't make you into a stoner.
A few weeks ago, the people at Charlotte's Web Hemp reached out to see if I wanted to try CBD for myself. To be honest, my initial reaction was "hell no." I don't smoke, I never want to be "high," I'm not into weed, and I'm not in any way, shape, or form into illegal drugs in general. However, I am a huge fan of naturopathic remedies like Chinese herbs and probiotics, acupuncture, and essential oils. I had been reading about how CBD is natural and legal, doesn't make you feel "high," and could mitigate effects of anxiety (in addition to a laundry list of other things).
Before we get into it, a quick breakdown: CBD oil is cannabidiol, an active component of cannabis. You're probably familiar with another cannabinoid: tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC . . . you know, the stuff that gets you high. There are over 85 cannabinoid compounds in a cannabis plant, but THC is the only one - seriously, just one - that is psychoactive (aka brain altering).
Charlotte's Web assured me that CBD does not in fact get you high and would essentially be liquid Xanax from Mother Nature. It also mentioned I wouldn't need a medical marijuana card (which I don't have), as it's a totally legal product. I was in.
CBD would essentially be liquid Xanax from Mother Nature.
A few days later, I received the CW "Everyday Plus" Hemp Oil in olive oil and CW "Everyday Advanced" Hemp Oil in mint chocolate flavor ($75 and $150, respectively). And as most respected professionals do, I tried it in the office at my place of employment, midday, with one of my coworkers. Legalities aside, I was still nervous that I'd get the psychoactive effects and lose control of my mental faculties, but coworkers assured me that "everything is fine" and basically told me to chill out and eat the oil. The experiment had begun.
Day 1
Dose: Two droppers full of Everyday Advanced, mint chocolate flavor
The "two droppers" was per the recommendation I received from CW. This apparently equates to two servings, though the supplement recommends taking two droppers full twice daily. This was roughly 92 mg of Hemp CO2 extract. I remember thinking, "This tastes like a mint chocolate ash tray."
Effects: Extremely sleepy during the day. That said, got "100 percent" sleep quality according to my Sleep Cycle app that I use nightly. No adverse side effects.
Day 2
Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Advanced
I decided to scale back so I wouldn't be so tired. I also had SoulCycle scheduled that night, and I really wanted to look alive in the front row, you know?
Effects: Relaxed, but not much to report on from this day either. I felt great during SoulCycle, and I didn't get too sore, which is somewhat unusual . . . maybe because of the CBD? TBD.
Day 3
Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Plus, olive oil flavor
By the third day, I decided to try the scaled-back, olive variety of these oils, which has 25 mg of Hemp CO2 extract per serving. I started small with one dropper just to be safe.
Effects: I honestly didn't feel much of anything! It wasn't a particularly anxiety-inducing day, so there wasn't much to stimulate my experiment.
Day 4
Dose: Two and a quarter droppers full of Everyday Advanced
This . . . this was the day of days. The day when I realized CBD can change lives. Also the day when I realized I had taken more oil than usual, which left me feeling not at all like myself as the hours went on. Background: driving is an anxiety trigger for me, and I was stuck in traffic for over three hours (for a trip that is usually just one hour) with a panic attack slowly building and tears starting to flow, so I reached for the oil - and decided to try a tiny little bit extra.
Effects: Anxiety relief within 30 minutes; it quite honestly felt miraculous. I was relaxed and laughing, and I felt like myself again. However, a few hours later, things took a turn. At risk of embarrassing myself, I'll just say that I became extremely spacey, couldn't focus on anything, and was starving - I had finished a substantial Italian dinner at 7 p.m. but decided at 8:30 p.m. that I needed a S'mores Frappuccino (truly deviating from my normal eating habits) . . . and then I needed an entire pint of Ben & Jerry's Half Baked. It was a scene. I don't know how it happened, but fair warning: this was too much for me. Though I was mildly traumatized, my best friend thought it was hilarious.
Day 5
Dose: One *half* dropper full of Everyday Advanced
Fully scarred from the day before, I scaled back significantly as I knew my duty was to continue the experiment for all seven days.
Effects: I felt relaxed! No anxiety to report on, and no adverse side effects.
Day 6
Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Advanced
I recovered from the fear of day four and scaled back up to a full dropper and had a very relaxing day. I drove back to SF and felt completely comfortable in traffic and even had a couple cups of coffee - which normally could give me a panic attack - and felt totally fine.
Effects: Mitigated anxiety from caffeine consumption, great sleep.
Day 7
Dose: Two droppers full of Everyday Advanced
Curious to see if day four's high was possibly a fluke, I decided to be brave (ha!) and scale back up - but was mentally prepared this time for anything that could happen. Aaaand I didn't get high! A win all around.
Effects: I had a deep sleep that night - so deep, in fact, that it was a little harder to wake up in the morning.
Overall Thoughts
I'm still figuring out that sweet-spot dose for myself, but my initial impression is extremely positive. I'm astounded at how well this prevented a panic attack and mitigated my anxiety in a naturopathic way. The idea that I could avoid potentially addictive psychotropic drugs while still managing stress and anxiety - in a way that won't make me high or impact my ability to think and work clearly - is unbelievable. It really is Mother Nature's liquid Xanax.
CBD oil has the ability to relieve pain and inflammation, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, fight cancer (seriously), relieve nausea, and reduce PMS symptoms, and it may even help with epilepsy.
I am a goody-two-shoes, nonsmoking fitness editor, and I fully recommend trying CBD as part of your wellness routine.
Because it's so safe and the side effects have been minimal, my personal recommendation is to try it, but just to be careful with your dose. Also keep in mind - as I did not know this when I first tried it - CBD oil may cause you to fail a drug test. Fortunately for me, POPSUGAR is pretty chill about this, but this is something that could present a serious issue if you're looking for a job or in a line of work that tests regularly.
I was super uncomfortable with the perception, labeling, and stigma around the use of cannabis products, but the profound pros that CBD oil has to offer me medically significantly outweigh any kind of cons I might endure from social stigma. I do think it's important to break said stigma around cannabis use of all kinds, whether it's CBD or THC, recreational or medical use. So here I am, a goody-two-shoes, nonsmoking fitness editor, here to share my side and my experience - and I fully recommend trying CBD as part of your wellness routine.
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Meet the Buzzy Nondairy Milk You Probably Didn't Know Existed
You may have heard of plant-based milks before, as there are a million different types on the market, and they're great alternatives for those who don't tolerate cow's milk or lactose. Yet they're also a great option for people looking to cut back on dairy or get a nutrient-dense, protein-packed milk with a distinct taste and flavor. Soy milk and almond milk have been around for a while now, but new milks, like oat milk and pea milk, are on the rise. Instead of scratching your head, pour a glass and try it for yourself. Oat milk is basically just water and oats, blended and drained, to get rid of chunky oat parts that wouldn't taste great in your glass of milk. It's also better for the environment, as nut milks can be more expensive and taxing on resources. Who knows, you may have just found your new favorite milk to go with your morning bowl of Cheerios or cup of coffee.
What's on the Label
Oat milk is actually pretty good for you. A one-cup serving of plain oat milk (get unsweetened varieties to cut back on sugar) clocks in at 130 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 24 grams of carbs, two grams of fiber, 19 grams of sugars, four grams of protein, and 350 mg of calcium. Compared to other milks, it is higher in carbohydrate and sugar count, but it's richest in calcium, so it could be a good option for those especially needing to strengthen their bones. For instance, soy milk offers only 300 mg of calcium, so it's a bit lower.
How Do You Use It?
This nondairy milk, which is a bit thinner than standard almond milk, works well in coffee, as its texture gives a frothy feel on the tongue. You can also use oat milk for oats, in oatmeal and cereals. Plus, it's also gluten-free, so you're good to go if you have celiac disease. However, be mindful of store-bought versions, as some can be contaminated with gluten from the manufacturing process. You can try making your own, or just make sure the brand you choose is reputable first.
These 15 Photos From Smithsonian Magazine's Photo Contest Will Take Your Breath Away, Guaranteed
Smithsonian magazine recently released the finalists of its 15th Annual Photo Contest, and each and every one is absolutely stunning. Among the 48,000 submissions from photographers across 155 countries and locations around the world, 60 stand-out images made it to the last round of selections. Participants were categorized into six photo categories: Natural World, The American Experience, Travel, People, Altered Images, and Mobile.
You can vote now through March 26 for the Readers' Choice winner every 24 hours, but be forewarned - it'll be extremely difficult to narrow your choice down to one beautifully raw and visually spectacular photograph. Winners of each category as well as the grand prize will be announced on Tuesday, March 27. See 15 of our favorites ahead and check out Smithsonian.com to see all 60 finalists you can vote from!
What It's Really Like to Quit Your Job, Drop Everything, and Move to Hawaii
It's not hard to sit back and fantasize about leaving for a tropical escape when the weather gets moody and work deadlines are overwhelming. But actually making the move? Well, it's a heck of a lot more difficult.
Somewhere along the way, this fantasy became my necessity. I needed a shift and a change in pace after a long, tough year of health issues. So after some soul-searching, I bought myself a one-way ticket, quit my job, and moved out of my apartment. I said goodbye, San Francisco - and ALOHA, Hawaii!
The first few days were a vacation with my sister and my partner on the island with me - we joined my sister's friends for nights out to dive bars and house parties, rang in the new year at a Gatsby-themed soiree, soaked up plenty of sun on the beach, and drank too many mai tais. We spent the night at a trendy hotel in Waikiki and spent too much money on expensive appetizers. I got my honorary first sunburn.
Vacation life, ya know?
Having my dear friends visit was such a blessing!
I was quick to discover island living is not always sunshine and coconuts. Once my friends left, I was alone back at the house with myself, my thoughts, and one very fuzzy golden retriever. I realized that with the bustle of Christmas festivities and hours spent packing my life into boxes for storage, I hadn't really been alone alone in a while. When the outdoor voices quieted, the weight of the past two months' worth of big moments and big decisions let themselves be felt in their entirety.
San Francisco was my home for two years. I had made best friends that became family; I loved my job and the people I worked with; I was dating someone I loved; I had an adorable bedroom with old hardwood floors and a bay window. But even though the outside looked so picturesque, on the inside, I was slowly recovering from my mental illness - a wrestle with chronic depression and generalized anxiety - and the hustle of city living wasn't helping.
I had turned to the island of Oahu for an escape, a hope for a fresh start somewhere among the turquoise waters and sugary sand.
The truth is, no matter where you are in the world, your feelings still follow. Your story still has its past. Insecurities still exist. The questions and the fears and the hurt are still there. I couldn't 100 percent expect my struggles, my heartache, and missing my dear friends, old coworkers, and yes, even the city disappear in a bubble of beach happiness. I couldn't find healing instantaneously.
During my first few weeks on the island, I quickly learned that while moving can never be completely running away, I don't think it should be. Hawaii, while a gorgeous spot to lose oneself in a beach vacation, became my sacred, quiet place for processing and restoration. I had to remind myself this wasn't vacation - this was real life, my life, and I chose it. It was a dream 10 years in the making, and it was here.
It took a few 10-hour nights of sleep, unpacked suitcases, and pictures hung on walls for a comfortable reality to set in. I wasn't alone - I was a phone call away from those I love, a few steps from a welcoming roommate, an hour's drive from the North Shore and another dear friend on it.
But most of all, I was here - with me, myself, and I.
So far, this new chapter has been all about taking a long, sandy stroll back to myself, and I'm OK with it. Let the adventure continue.
The 1 Problem With Traveling With a Toddler That Took Me by Total Surprise
Before venturing on my first flight with my 2 1/2-year-old son, I had a lot of concerns. My overactive brain thought about every problem that could likely occur . . . except for the one that actually did. Sure, having a toddler scream and kick on a plane would have been awful, but having him struggle through the time change was worse. Instead of this hurdle being over in a few short hours, it lasted days.
Two hours to an adult really isn't a big deal, but to a highly regimented toddler, it was something that, in hindsight, I shouldn't have underestimated. For days he was taking naps at the wrong time and for the wrong length, eating at odd hours, and waking far too early. All of these little changes made for a grumpy, exhausted, and overstimulated child. This, of course, meant I was also all of those things.
Sure, eventually he acclimated, but not without some strong compromises. A lot of time was wasted on our vacation because of missteps along the way. Knowing what I know now, there are some things I will be more mindful of in the future and one thing we did right.
- Heading east is not the same as heading west. On a previous road trip to New York, we didn't concern ourselves too much with the time change since he was going to be expected to stay up later than usual. However, for a child who has a strict schedule, staying up two hours later was huge. Be aware that you're asking a lot from them, and there will be an adjustment period.
- Be outside and active as much as possible. Since their rhythm is going to be off, it's best to get them exposed to as much sunlight as possible. Let them see that it's daylight and that life continues as normal, just in a new place. Additionally, keep them as active as possible so that they're not aware of how tired they are.
- Make car trips short. My son loves to nap in his car seat, and while that was great on the plane, it made getting him adjusted to the time change difficult. We'd get in the car to go to the children's museum and he'd fall asleep by the time we got there, thus ruining his naps.
- Bring snacks, but keep meal times consistent. He was ready for lunch at 10 a.m., despite having just eaten an impressively large breakfast. By trying to feed him his meals when he was hungry, I kept resetting his natural clock. Instead of trying to accommodate his insatiable appetite, I should have given him snacks to keep the hunger at bay and then focused on a proper lunch at a regular time.
- Be flexible, and think incrementally. My son's usual bedtime is 7:30 p.m., meaning that on our trip to the West Coast, he was going to want to sleep around 5:30 p.m. Since this would mean getting up at 5 a.m., which I obviously didn't want to do, I had to work his schedule incrementally. While I would have loved for him to go to bed at his normal time, this would have made for an overtired toddler. We compromised in the middle, and he was passed out around 6:30 p.m. In a couple days, we were able to move his bedtime back to his normal schedule. This was one way we were successful in dealing with the time change. When we travel again, I'll be sure to implement this strategy.
12 Tips For Sleeping on a Plane Like a Pro
I'm an expert at sleeping on planes. I'm the worst travel companion, because when my head hits the back of those weird, bendable, and only slightly functional plane seat pillows, I'm out like a light. I always have these lofty goals of getting work done, making a dent in my book, or catching up on a movie I've been meaning to watch for months, but that almost never happens. Even if I don't immediately doze off, I'm able to get to sleep easily with a few little tricks that make the flight fly by . . . since I usually find myself waking up as we land.
If you are a nervous flyer or just can't ever seem to get comfortable enough to fall asleep on a plane, then here are some things to try that really work.
- Get a neck pillow. I know, they aren't necessarily the most stylish things in the world, and they can be annoying to carry around. But if you have a carry-on, it's easy to just hook the pillow around the handles of the suitcase, or tuck it in a bag (you can even get ones that inflate/deflate). If you get a bad seat or a terrible plane chair, then these are lifesavers when trying to fall asleep.
- Order a glass of wine. Some will say this isn't always your best bet for falling asleep, but I personally call bullsh*t. When there's turbulence and I'm starting to see my life flash before my eyes, a soothing glass of red wine (or a small bottle if the airline is doing it right) helps me relax and makes me nice and sleepy.
- Listen to a calming travel playlist. A calming playlist will help calm any nerves you may have - especially during takeoff. The music also helps drown out random plane noises that make you anxious, crying babies, or those loud talkers who don't seem to realize they are on a plane with 150-plus other people. Make sure to use the "download to phone" feature before you fly, otherwise you won't be able to access Spotify when you're in the air.
- Before leaving your house, download episodes of your favorite TV show. Instead of depending on the in-flight entertainment or downloading a movie you've never seen, choose something you have watched a million times and know you love, and download episodes to your iPhone or iPad so you can watch while you fly. This can be comforting and familiar since you've already seen the show, so you don't feel like you have to pay attention. It helps you relax and ultimately aids in sleep.
- Bring a book to read. I don't leave the house without some sort of access to several books, usually on my Kindle app on my phone or iPad. But when you're flying, bring a "real" book instead, so that the light of your phone/Kindle doesn't keep you awake. Make it a fun, light book - I'm talking a nice YA romance or comedic memoir . . . not Ulysses.
- Get an eye mask. Eye masks help block out lights from the window or your neighbor's TV, phone, iPad, computer, etc. They definitely help give the illusion that it's nighttime - even if it's not.
- Choose a window seat. Make sure when you book your flight that you pick a window seat if you can. If you aren't able to snag one, always check back the night before your flight when you go to check in; sometimes window seats have opened up if people switched their tickets/seats around. There's always hope!
- Don't nap the day of your flight. Try to do what you can to stay awake until the plane takes off so that you're totally exhausted by the time you sit down.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Wear clothes and shoes that you can move around comfortably in so that no matter what position you end up taking in your plane seat, you're able to relax and fall asleep.
- Bring a blanket. Or if you don't want to awkwardly carry around a big blanket, bring or wear a jacket, poncho, or sweater that serves well as a cover-up and can double as a blanket when you're cuddling up in your chair.
- Be open to paying for extra leg room. If you have a really hard time sleeping on a plane, upgrading to extra leg room (especially on a long flight) can make ALL the difference.
- Bring earbuds. ALWAYS. Without earbuds, sleep will most certainly elude you.
What It's Really Like to Work as Emirates Cabin Crew, From a Former Employee
When I was growing up, I never dreamed of becoming a member of a cabin crew. However, I always dreamed of traveling to faraway places all over the world - and that is what led me to join Emirates Airline in 2012. When I got my confirmation call, I was ecstatic; I was going to live in Dubai and get to travel the world for free! I also had major travel anxiety about moving 7,000 miles away from everything I knew. But after a couple reassuring talks with my friends and family, I realized nothing was going to stop me from seeing the world. So, in October 2012, I headed to JFK Airport in New York City with a one-way ticket to Dubai.
As I said goodbye to my family, I could feel tears welling up in my eyes. I took a deep breath, quickly said goodbye, and headed toward security. The next hours were a complete whirlwind. I boarded the A380 double-decker plane, which was by far the largest aircraft I had ever been on in my life. After I told one of the crew I was a new joiner, he showed me all around the plane and introduced me to the other crew. All my fears disappeared; I immediately felt like being part of a family. After landing, I was brought to my furnished, paid apartment right in the heart of downtown Dubai.
Just three days later, my six-week training course with new joiners from all around the world started. My training covered everything from safety and emergency procedures to image standards. After those intense six weeks, I finally received what I was waiting for: my very first roster. It consisted of different layover destinations (where we stayed in a hotel), as well as turnaround destinations (a one-day round trip from Dubai). My first roster was full of places I could not wait to explore.
My First Ultralong-Haul Flight: Dubai - Melbourne - Auckland
I was so happy to see a six-day Melbourne-Auckland trip show up on my first roster. This trip was broken down into smaller segments: Dubai to Melbourne (24-hour layover in Melbourne), Melbourne to Auckland (24-hour layover in Auckland), Auckland to Melbourne (24-hour layover in Melbourne), and Melbourne to Dubai.
On the day of my flight, I woke up at 6 a.m. (for a 10 a.m. departure) and started my routine. Since the flight to Melbourne was so long, I made sure to apply everything as perfectly as I could. I put on my full face of makeup and tied my hair into a neat doughnut bun. I then grabbed my suitcase and headed to the shuttle that brought me to Emirates headquarters.
On the way to the airport, I felt a mixture of emotions; on one hand, I was so nervous because I was still completely new, but on the other hand, I was so excited about traveling to countries I always dreamed of going to. "Fake it till you make it," I told myself and went to my preflight briefing room.
The preflight briefing room was buzzing with energy. We were flying on the A380 plane, so there were over 20 crew members in the room. I got my documents checked by one of the senior crew members. After this came the moment I was dreading: a "Safe Talk" question. This is a question asked by the purser (the manager) of the plane and it's required to be answered by each cabin crew member. Not answering the question correctly could lead to getting offloaded (which meant getting taken off the flight and reported to your manager), a fate no new cabin crew member wanted. These questions were directly related to what we learned in our training, but there was still so much to remember. On that day, I answered the question correctly and felt a weight off my shoulders disappear.
Finally, I went to get my image and uniform checked by another one of the senior cabin crew member. This part of the process always made me feel a bit uncomfortable.
I felt like a doll on display for someone as they went through their checklist looking for the following: that my nails were of the right length and color (either clear or red), that my hair and makeup were up to standards, that my uniform was in perfect condition, and my tights were of the right opacity and color.
I felt like a doll on display for someone as they went through their checklist looking for the following: that my nails were of the right length and color (either clear or red), that my hair and makeup were up to standards, that my uniform was in perfect condition, and my tights were of the right opacity and color. The standards were meticulous; even the slightest difference meant getting a note about it on your flight review. That's why on my first few flights I always made sure to take extra time getting ready.
After all my fellow crew went through this process, we sat down and were briefed on our upcoming flight. Once finished, we got into a shuttle that brought us to the aircraft.
Seeing the A380 without passengers made me realize how huge the plane was. There were over 400 seats in economy and two galleys (kitchen and storage area) for us to use. I went to my station, dropped off my carry-on bag, and got straight to work. First came doing safety and security checks in my designated area. Then I had to prepare the cabin and hot towels for when our passengers got on board.
At 9 a.m., it was showtime. All the passengers started rushing onto the plane. I was happy to be in the back of the plane, where it was calmer than in the front. Once everyone was on board, we handed out towels to our passengers. Then we prepared the cabin by conducting our final safety and security check. I sat down on my jump seat and prepared for takeoff.
The flight to Melbourne was hectic; it was over 13 hours with nonstop work. There were three different services, and since I was still so new I was confused half the time. I barely had time to breathe. Even after we finished our service, the call bells were ringing every other second. I must have walked several miles on that flight going back and forth from the front of the aircraft to the back. We had a short break of about three hours, but I had so many thoughts rushing through my mind I couldn't sleep.
Before I knew it, I could see Australia from outside the window. I couldn't believe that those 13 hours had passed so quickly. After landing and getting to the hotel, my adrenaline kicked in. I had been up for almost 20 hours but it didn't feel like it. I rushed out of the hotel with some of the other new crew and explored Melbourne. The next day my wake-up call came and I repeated my same routine. Then it was off to Auckland.
My first months of flying were amazing - nothing I had done previously in my life could compare. All the new experiences outweighed any negative side of the job. But, eventually for me, that scale tipped the other way.
Saying Goodbye to Emirates
Whenever I posted photos to Facebook of all my amazing trips, my friends would comment telling me how envious they were of me or how glamorous my life looked. While it was true that I lived an exciting life, it was far from being nearly as glamorous as people thought.
There were so many advantages of working for Emirates: living in Dubai for free, staying in amazing hotels across the world, traveling on your days off while only having to pay 10 percent of the airfare, having friends from all over the world, and having a tax-free salary.
While it was true that I lived an exciting life, it was far from being nearly as glamorous as people thought.
But there were also so many disadvantages: being away from family and friends, missing holidays, feeling lonely, dealing with jet lag and health issues, having passengers yell at you for things out of your control, being looked at all the time for your appearance, dealing with delays on flights, waking up at any hour during the day or night for flights, and so much more.
There came a day when the disadvantages outweighed the advantages for me, and that's when I decided to leave Emirates. When I first left, I felt so happy to be on ground all the time and sleep normal hours again. Eventually, I did start to miss many things about being crew. It wasn't really the travel I missed; it was the sense of camaraderie I felt with the crew. I missed being so tired on long-haul flights that we'd all sit around in the galley deliriously giggling and telling jokes to stay awake. I missed hearing stories about the life and culture in different places around the world. Most of all I missed the sense of family I felt with crew.
I'm so glad that I took the chance to work as cabin crew. It changed my life in so many ways and gave me a new sense of confidence in myself. I'm happier being on ground now, but whenever I see a plane flying above me, I always wonder what kind of interesting things are happening at 38,000 feet.
Get the Very First Look at Disney Cruise Line's Newest Ships!
More is more when it comes to Disney, and its cruise line is no exception. In July 2017, Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, announced that Disney Cruise Line would be expanding its fleet with three new ships to make their debuts in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
"We decided two ships wouldn't be enough to hold all of the exciting new experiences we have been dreaming up to take family cruise vacations to a whole new level with immersive Disney storytelling, world-class family entertainment, and imaginative innovations that are fantastically fun and uniquely Disney," Chapek said.
Now, fans can get a first look at the new ships with a recently released rendering image of a vessel.
"In keeping with the distinct Disney Cruise Line style, the new ships will embody the elegance and romance of the golden age of ocean cruising with unique touches all their own," Disney said. "The three new vessels will offer more innovation, new technologies, spectacular entertainment and more Disney stories and characters than ever before."
- Each will be around 140,000 gross tons (slightly larger than the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy).
- Each is currently planned to include about 1,250 guest staterooms.
- Ship names and itineraries are yet to be determined.
- They will be powered by one of the cleanest-burning fuels available, known as liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Stay tuned for updates as more details are released, and start dreaming of sailing the open seas now!
Gordon Ramsay Reveals the 1 Place You Should Never Eat
Sure, Gordon Ramsay has high standards, but is there really anything he would never eat? Turns out it's more of a place where he would never eat rather than one specific food - and that's on a plane. In an interview with Refinery29, Gordon revealed his feelings about airplane food and why those feelings might be justified. "There's no f*cking way I eat on planes," he said. "I worked for airlines for 10 years, so I know where this food's been and where it goes, and how long it took before it got on board." Yikes. The man has a point - there's no denying that airplane food is not the best.
So what's a traveler to do to avoid midflight hunger, according to the world-renowned chef? If you're like him, you'll make time to stop at a nice Italian restaurant for a little meat and cheese. "A nice selection of Italian meats, a little glass of red wine, some sliced apples or pears with some parmesan cheese," Gordon says of his ideal airport snack.
Alternatively, of course, you could eat at Gordon Ramsay's very own Plane Food, a restaurant in Terminal 5 of the London Heathrow Airport. There, you'll find truffle mac and cheese, Szechuan squid, and spicy tuna tartare . . . certainly nothing that's reheated in convection ovens on an airplane.
44 Disney Cruise Hacks You Need to Know Before Sailing
We've all got it wrong, because the happiest place on earth is not a Disney park, but a Disney cruise. Yep, I said it. I love Disneyland and Disney World as much as the next Disney devotee, but there are some drawbacks to the parks (like hordes of people, inescapable heat, and long lines) that you just don't deal with while sailing blissfully on blue seas. I recently took the Disney Fantasy's Western Caribbean trip for seven nights, and while I went in a little hesitant about the whole affair, my skepticism about being on board a ship with thousands of people - many of whom barely reached my waist - was checked at the entrance of the ship and buried deeper as the days went by.
Disney fans, book your cruise ASAP. Non-Disney fans, book your Disney cruise ASAP, because you can embrace Disney entirely aboard the ship or avoid it, and still have a VIP experience either way. Star Wars buffs, book your cruise on the Fantasy and have a special day at sea that biggest fans can only dream of.
6 Secrets to Making the Most of Your Spring Getaway
Raise your hand if this sounds like you: "It takes me a couple days to relax on vacation, and then I have a great time." It's so, so common: The first few days of a trip, you're still wrapped up in thoughts and anxieties related to your job and home, but after a little time in a gorgeous new location, devoid of your daily routine, you manage to let your guard down.
On a recent visit to COMO Parrot Cay, an incredibly quiet, serene, sun-drenched island in Turks and Caicos, one executive told me he sees this all the time with return guests: the travelers arrive and start out glued to their phones and distraught over any changes the hotel has made ("You redid the reception area?!") - kind of a bummer tone to take on a dream vacation. But once thoughts of their old lives fade, they can get into a vacation groove and get some much-needed R&R. (Which is the whole point of a Spring vacation!)
But, to state the obvious: why waste those first two or three days on a trip feeling tense, when you could slip into that blissful state the second you pull up to your destination? I tapped some mindfulness and travel experts for their freshest tips for getting into a vacation groove at minute one.
43 Secrets From a Former Goofy Cast Member at Disney World
Disney fans always go crazy for a peek behind the curtain, and Disney theme parks are notoriously secretive. Luckily for us, a former cast member at Walt Disney World held an AMA on Reddit and shared his personal experiences on the job. Some stories are hilarious, some are completely heartbreaking.
The host of the AMA performed as Goofy for 20 years as well as acting as a tour guide and shop worker and working in guest relations for another five, and he revealed what is (and isn't) so magical about working for the main mouse. Read on to learn what juicy things were revealed in the AMA.
The Top 9 Things You Can't Miss at Disneyland's Food and Wine Festival
The Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival is back and better than ever. The 2018 event runs from March 2 through April 12 and is one of the best experiences of the season - especially for foodies. I got to experience all the fun this year and rounded up nine of my favorite things to see (and eat). Grab your tickets, and make sure to get your appetite ready!
10 Family-Friendly Spring Break Destinations That Won't Break the Bank
The sun is shining, the flowers are starting to bloom, and the uptick in temperatures has us thinking one thing: it's time for a vacation! This Spring break, let's eliminate the financial stress from the equation, so you can focus your energy on making memories with your family. Here's a roundup of fantastic family-friendly locales that are also easy on the wallet, from the popular to the off-the-beaten-path.
Everything You Need to Know About Gordon Ramsay's New Hell's Kitchen Restaurant in Vegas
Gordon Ramsay has 34 restaurants around the world, but none are quite like the new Hell's Kitchen-themed restaurant that just opened in Las Vegas. Located at Caesars Palace, Hell's Kitchen is an 8,000-square-foot restaurant that combines elements of the TV show with Gordon Ramsay's signature dishes for a truly unique dining experience. I got to dine at the restaurant during the grand opening and sit down with Gordon to talk about the exciting, much-anticipated destination.
"The location is extraordinary. I do have to pinch myself," he told POPSUGAR. Fans of the Fox show, which is currently in its 17th season, will recognize items and themes from the Hell's Kitchen set throughout the restaurant. The meticulously designed space has red and blue details throughout, and the cooks in the kitchen wear the same red and blue jackets and bandanas, mimicking the competitive environment in a bustling, open kitchen ablaze with onscreen flames. The difference is this isn't a show. "There's no f*cking around in here. It's the real deal," Gordon said. You'll find pitchforks throughout the restaurant, too, from the bathroom door handles to the custom napkins. It's themed, but it's most definitely "not a theme park," Gordon said sternly.
Led by executive chef Jennifer Murphy, the kitchen is turning out pan-seared scallops, braised short ribs, lobster risotto, baked macaroni and cheese with smoked Gouda, herb-crusted rack of lamb, beef Wellington, and much more as quickly as possible. Come hungry, because there's a lot to eat - and all of it is as perfectly cooked as you'd hope. Expectations are high, and when season 17 of Hell's Kitchen All Stars wraps, the winner will be named head chef.
This is a must-visit restaurant for every Gordon Ramsay and Hell's Kitchen superfan, but make no mistake: securing a spot during your trip to Vegas will take some planning. After the restaurant opened up reservations in mid-January, the bookings came flooding in - 25,000 of them, to be exact. Hell's Kitchen fits approximately 300 guests and is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday. It stays open an hour later on Friday and Saturday, so you do have options, and walk-ins are welcome if there is room. But reservations are recommended, and if you can't access your preferred date online, you can call the restaurant directly and book as far in advance as you'd like.
Itching to learn more and see what Hell's Kitchen come to life is really like? Read on for a first look and a full recap.
7 Badass Women Who Broke Major Travel Barriers
It's great to see so many women seeing the world and sharing their adventures with us on social media, blogs, or vlogs. Yet it wasn't always easy for women to travel on their own terms or beyond certain borders. However, there are female trailblazers who made significant strides within their time, setting records and pushing past boundaries. Let's hear it for these incredible ladies who set forth on new and unexpected journeys.
1. Nellie Bly
Born Elizabeth Cochran, this pseudonym-using investigative journalist went on an awfully big adventure. In 1889, inspired by Jules Vernes's book Around the World in Eighty Days, Nellie Bly turned this work of fiction into a real trip that would beat the book's record. As an assignment for the New York World, Nellie did it in 72 days, traveling by train and ship. Her route took her from England to France to the Suez Canal and to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan. She also had some road competition from another female reporter named Elizabeth Bisland from a New York newspaper called Cosmopolitan. Nonetheless, Bly won and published a book about her adventure a year later.
2. Bessie Coleman
This American aviator took to the skies, becoming the first African-American woman to earn a pilot's license. Coleman developed an interest in flying at an early age but would not be admitted to flight schools in the United States. But she didn't let this setback stop her. She saved her money and went to France, where she became a licensed pilot from Ecole d'Aviation des Freres Caudron et Le Crotoy in June of 1921. Back in the States, Coleman had trouble finding work and went back to Europe to get training in acrobatic movements in the air. When she came back to America, Coleman worked as air show pilot and specialized in "barnstorming" stunt flying and parachuting. Sadly, she died in a plane crash in on April 30, 1926, when it spun out of control.
3. Amelia Earhart
While her name has become legendary, this aviator accomplished two major strides: she was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic and the first person to traverse the Atlantic and the Pacific. In 1937, she decided to go after what would become her final pursuit: to be the first woman to fly around the world. Sadly, toward the end of her route, her plane's radio transmissions became lost; poor weather conditions and inaccurate maps also impacted the flight. A massive sea and air search and rescue attempt was immediately carried out by the United States government, but neither Earhart nor her navigator were found. There have been many theories but no solid proof of what happened.
4. Emma Gatewood
Often known as "Grandma Gatewood," this woman and grandmother became the first female to hike the Appalachian Trail when she was 67 years old. Her journey is also one of survival. Her husband abused her severely throughout their marriage, so much that she suffered broken ribs and other injuries; she obtained a divorce in 1940. Inspired by a National Geographic article about the Appalachian Trail, Gatewood told her family she was going for her walk (but instead left town with a change of clothes and a small amount of money). She started this solo trek in 1955; by that September, she reached Maine's Mount Katahdin. Her accomplishment also led to something important: preserving the Appalachian Trail. She hiked the AT again in 1960 and then a third time in 1963.
5. Junko Tabei
Junko Tabei's name might not come first to mind for mountain climbing, but this Japanese woman has achieved an incredible feat. She's been credited as the first female to summit Mount Everest in 1975 and ascend all Seven Summits (climbing the highest mountains on all seven continents). After graduating college, she started a ladies' climbing club that would include a team that would attempt to climb Everest and obtained fundraising from sponsors. After a successful wait to receive a climbing permit, this all-female group (including Tabei) set off in the spring of 1975. They were almost killed by an avalanche but were rescued by their sherpas (local experienced climbers). Despite having to stop for a few days, Junko and her sherpa would eventually reach the summit on May 16, 1975.
6. Libby Riddles
This American dog musher turned into an overnight celebrity when she became the first woman to win the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in 1985. During that Iditarod, weather conditions were so bad that they caused the race to be interrupted at various periods. It was so much that the leading mushers decided to pull over at a village checkpoint. Instead, Riddles is said to have carried on along a trail that was pretty iffy. She kept her lead in the race and finished in 18 days, 20 minutes, and 17 seconds. She has written books about her adventures and now is a public speaker and raises and trains sled dogs.
7. Mae Jemison
This American engineer and medical physician has another title on her résumé - a NASA astronaut. After completing medical school and having a brief general practice, Jemison went to serve in the Peace Corps as a medical officer in West Africa from 1983 to 1985. Two years later, NASA selected her to join the astronaut corps. During that time, Jemison set forth on a mission that made her the first African-American woman to travel in space. On Sept. 12, 1992, she went into orbit on board the Space Shuttle Endeavor. Having left NASA the following year, Jemison is currently the principal of the 100 Year Starship, an organization aiming to make space travel beyond our solar system a possibility.
I Was Stranded in the ATL Airport For 48 Hours - This Is What I Learned
As someone who flies more than 50,000 miles every year, I've experienced my fair share of flight delays. It's usually just a minor inconvenience, and I'll never pass up a good excuse to indulge in a glass of wine or an overpriced neck massage. But this past March, while laying over in Atlanta after a quick girls' getaway to Spain, a system-wide computer glitch coupled with a massive thunderstorm left me, along with thousands of others, stranded for days. Not hours, not just overnight, but days. I thought I was a pretty solid flier before, but after nearly 48 hours in the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (which happens to be one of the busiest in the world), I will humbly admit I still had a lot to learn.
You never know when travel misfortune will strike, and if the issue leaves several flights grounded, chances are hotels in the area book up fast. So if you find yourself stuck in an airport for an extended period of time, maybe what I learned from my two-day "travelmare" can help.
- Always carry on the essentials. Not only grooming basics like a toothbrush, mouthwash, face wash, sleeping eye mask, etc., but anything else that can help calm your nerves. For me, a soothing blend of essential oils was an absolute lifesaver when I found my stress levels start to rise.
- Keep healthy, filling snacks on you. This is pretty standard travel advice, but after massive flight cancellations, the food lines wills be exceptionally long. Be sure to have snacks that will fill you up, because few things add to stress more than hunger! It's also smart to travel with an empty water bottle - flight delays or not - to avoid shelling out $4 a pop.
- Keep it friendly. The customer service reps are all working overtime, dealing with very angry crowds, and in most cases are just as stressed out as you. A little kindness goes a long way with them.
- Do your own research. Be on the lookout for flight alternatives, and try to get them taken care of yourself. Check the monitors for other flights or airports in the general area, and if you find one that works, go directly to the gate agent for that flight. Even if it's sold out, keep at it! Missed connections will typically open up seats at the last minute.
- Always travel with a cozy sweatshirt, even in the Summer. Luckily I stuffed one of the cheap airline blankets in my backpack before deboarding, or else things would have gotten really uncomfortable. Airport temperatures always seem to be extreme; it's either frosty and frigid or high noon in the desert. So if you don't end up wearing your extra layer, you can use it as a pillow or barrier between you and the ground if you need to catch some zzz's.
- Bring a portable phone charger, as the outlets fill up fast. There are tons of options under $30 on Amazon.
- I quickly learned that while some customer service representatives are closed off to "outside of the box" options, others were willing to work with me. Again, that's where the kindness comes into play. So if one person tells you no, try and try again!
- Know your flight isn't going to take off anytime soon? Beeline for an airline club or lounge. Many travel credit cards give you access, but even if you don't have one, it's worth the $50 day pass. Because showers. Need I say more? (But also, complimentary food, drinks, WiFi, nice bathrooms, etc. The list goes on)
- Call the next day for compensation. If it's strictly a weather delay, you probably won't be able to get anything in return. However, even for mechanical or computer issues, airlines typically won't freely offer compensation. You need to ask for it. Because this particular case was so extreme, the airline did offer every traveler that day 20,000 miles, but when I called, they gave me an additional $200 traveler voucher.
- Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, don't stress over things that are not within your control. Be proactive, yes. Look for solutions. But if there's nothing you can do, simply breathe, stretch, mediate, read a book, have a drink, do whatever relaxes you, and let it go.
The Top 10 US Destinations You Won't Want to Miss in 2018, According to Lonely Planet
Luckily for us, we don't even need to step foot outside of the country to check items off of our bucket lists - because there's plenty to see in our own backyards! For local travel inspiration, look no further than Lonely Planet's best in the US list, the eighth edition of which was released to the public on Feb. 6. California's Redwood Coast snagged the number one spot for 2018 and was followed followed by nine other spectacular, must-see destinations across the country. If you're planning an all-American road trip this year, be sure to add the following spots to your itinerary.
Your Hairstyle Could Actually Be Aging You - Here Are 11 Ways to Avoid That
We worry a lot about keeping our skin youthful, but have you ever considered how your hairstyle might be another culprit that's aging you? See: wispy bangs, limp locks, or chopping all your hair off once you've hit a certain age just because you think it's your social obligation to do so. The truth is, you can make simple hair changes that instantly leave you looking fresh-faced and, more importantly, give you a confidence boost. Ahead, we show you exactly how with the help of celeb hairstylists like Etienne Ortega, Franck Izquierdo, and more.
I Have Worn the Same $3 Liquid Eyeliner For 10 Years, and It Gets Me So Many Compliments
I'm a girl who likes to wear a sharp, inky-black cat eye on the regular. There's something about it that makes me feel both powerful and glamorous, so I have made it my go-to look since my teenage years. Time after time, friends, coworkers, and strangers have asked me the same question: "What eyeliner do you use?" There's nothing that brings me more joy than smugly telling them it's a $3 pick from the drugstore. Yes, I have been religiously swiping Wet n Wild MegaLiner Liquid Eyeliner on my lids for 10 years now, and I don't plan on stopping any time soon.
Before you become skeptical, know that I have tried my fair share of liquid liners. I am always curious to see if any high-end or drugstore brands can match the quality of my Wet n Wild pick, but they never do. MegaLiner Liquid Eyeliner comes in a small tube with a screw-top handle. The applicator, a flexible spongy brush, is easy to maneuver as I glide it across my skin. The harder you press, the thicker the line becomes, so you have a lot of control over the intensity of your look. The formula itself is smooth and matte. Its raven-black shade makes my blue eyes pop. All it takes is one coat to get a pleasing obsidian-dark effect.
For me, pen-tip applicators and pots with angle brushes don't give me the razor-sharp line I'm looking for. Only MegaLiner provides me with that smooth edge - I won't accept anything less. What can I say, a good cat eye has become a passion. It's time to set down your pricey choice and give my favorite a try. I can confidently promise you that it won't disappoint.
Let's be real, a $3 purchase is not a big risk to take. Even better - it's currently on sale for $2. I keep one in every purse I own. Read on to see close-ups of the liner itself and how it looks once it's applied.
Burning Question: Does Turmeric Get Rid of Dark Spots?
Turmeric has gained renewed attention for its health benefits (among them reversing symptoms of heart disease) and is proving one of the hottest new ingredients to add to your skincare routine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In case you needed another reason to stockpile the golden spice, experts are also hailing it for its ability to help with hyperpigmentation.
"Turmeric contains curcumin, which inhibits pigmentation in the skin and can be effective in reducing the appearance of sun spots and pigmented scarring," explains Gina Mari, a celebrity esthetician.
"It is said to inhibit the pigmentation of skin, helping with dark spots. It is often used as a home remedy with lemon, yogurt, and milk for lightening skin. I have not seen this effect myself, but people swear by it," adds Debbi Burnes, natural skincare expert and founder of Sumbody.
According to Paula Simpson, a holistic nutritionist, biochemist, and cofounder of Zea Skin Solutions, turmeric can also help prevent future spots. "Through diet and supplementation, the active constituents are believed to help block melanin overproduction that is triggered by chronic sun exposure (and a reason why skin appears uneven in appearance)," she explains.
From perky eye creams to sweet-meets-spicy masks, click through for 10 products that boast the beautifying benefits of turmeric.
Sick of Battling Oily Skin? 10 Moisturizers That Can Actually Help
When you have oily skin, wearing a moisturizer may feel counterproductive, but the right product will actually help cut down on visible grease and shine while keeping your skin smooth and clear. The idea is to encourage natural oil production, but not lead to more oil in your pores than you already have. These moisturizers will keep skin hydrated and healthy, but not make a shiny situation worse!
I Finally Found the 1 Acne Spot Treatment That Works on My Problematic Skin
I've suffered from hormonal cystic acne since I hit puberty, and those huge, painful, and embarrassing blemishes have never stopped stressing me out. Finally, after 15 years and the help of a dermatologist, I have clear skin. But that doesn't mean I don't suffer from a breakout every now and then. I often feel those pesky, painful pimples under my skin before they're even noticeable, and I want to fight them before they get bigger. From the classic myth of using toothpaste as a spot treatment to rubbing a piece of aspirin on my skin (I know, but I was desperate at the time), these kooky hacks never did it for me. Then, a little over a year ago, I found a spot treatment product that finally does what it promises to: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17).
I'm a little embarrassed to admit it, but I discovered this amazing product by watching Kylie Jenner's Snapchat. (This was before the launch of her own cosmetic line, when she used to show more of her own skincare routine.) Little did I know that the small pink bottle was a total cult classic. I went and bought it immediately. That night before bed, I followed the instructions and used a cotton swab to dab the pink lotion on every little bump I could find. I woke up the next day and there was no trace of the lotion or of a blemish. At last, a product that I saw results with. I've been addicted ever since.
If you're wondering what makes this treatment so special, it's the pink substance itself: the calamine lotion. (Yes, that's the same lotion that you may have used if you've ever suffered from poison ivy or insect bites as a kid.) This soothing lotion is mixed with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and sulfur, which work together to dry out clogged pores, kill bacteria, and diminish your spots. If you've been searching for the right spot treatment for you, this one is definitely worth a try.
MAC Is Launching Throwback Lipsticks in '90s-Fabulous Colors, and We. Are So. Excited.
The dream of the '90s is alive in MAC's latest collection, which will have fans of the decade screaming in their hair claws. The brand has launched a Throwbacks collection that's bringing sexy back - and by "sexy," we mean all your old favorite lipstick and eye shadow shades like Marrakesh, Bronx, Uninterrupted, and Kid.
Even better? This line is part of the brand's permanent collection, so you don't have to worry about missing out on reuniting with all your OGs. On the lip front, Throwbacks includes matte, frost, and satin finishes, which are all in retro shades that belong in an episode of Friends. Sans one metallic - the duochrome bronze Spanish Fly - the lippies lie in the red or pink color family.
Natural is the name of the game for the eye shadows, which come in a range of tan, beige, and brown to channel that Alicia Silverstone no-makeup look. Read on to see everything you can shop online at MAC now or in stores on March 1 - which is aptly a Thursday, aka prime #TBT time.
15 E.L.F. Products Every Beauty Gal on a Budget Must Try
E.L.F. Cosmetics (aka Eyes Lips Face) launched in 2004 after founders Joey Shamah and Scott Vincent Borba noticed that even women with expensive tastes went to dollar stores for affordable cosmetics. In 2004, I was in middle school and was interested in makeup, but didn't have enough money to buy it. After learning about the brand's $1 products on a news segment, I was intrigued. I saved my pennies for weeks until I could place an order online. Not only could I finally afford to buy multiple items, but they were all cruelty-free, too.
Since then, my love of makeup (and my budget) has grown, but I have never given up my love for the brand. Today, E.L.F. is widely available in stores including Walgreens, Target, and on its website, and the line has expanded to a wide range of products between $1-$10. The high-quality assortment has consistently provided me with beauty favorites that I reach for (even over luxury brand products!) in my ever-expanding makeup collection. Read on for the standouts of the affordable brand and decide which ones you'll try first.
This New Feature From YouCam Allows You to Ask a Makeup Artist For On-Demand Advice
"Think Uber, but for [fill in the blank]" has become such a cliché pitch these days that reading the phrase sort of makes me roll my eyes. My inbox is filled with such emails, and I have no problem not reading those messages, even if it keeps me away from that covetable "Inbox Zero" life. So when I come across an "Uber, but for [fill in the blank]" that I'm excited about, I sit up and take notice.
That recently happened with YouCam Makeup's Beauty Advisor tool, which I was able to exclusively test before it officially rolls out on the app. The technology will officially debut at SXSW on March 10, but here's a little heads-up about what's what with this tool.
Perhaps you already have YouCam Makeup, as it's the most downloaded beauty app out there. If you don't, prepare to lose hours on this app, which lets you "try on" makeup via virtual reality technology. This isn't another cheesy Snapchat filter, though; the makeup looks super realistic, and you can even test out specific brands and products so you know what something will look like before you buy it. And now YouCam Makeup has upped its game by adding on-demand MUAs who you can video-chat with should you have any burning beauty questions.
I'm sure we all have that one friend we go to for makeup help (perhaps you are that friend!). It's so much better getting ready with a friend, and that's basically the purpose behind this feature. I tested it out myself last week right before a date, during which I wanted to wear a strong cat eye.
Now, my hand's natural state is shaking so hard you'd believe I just downed four espresso shots, so I rarely attempt this look myself. I save it for a pro or more talented buddy. But my on-demand beauty adviser talked me though the application seamlessly and even recommended a few products to really get my look on point.
According to brand reps I chatted with, the beauty advisers are hand-picked by YouCam Makeup's staff. They are often sourced from branded makeup counters, so they may have a certain expertise with one specific line of makeup. Each one will use the app's augmented reality to show you what your preferred makeup style will look like, and you'll be equipped with a handy list of products used and shopping links so you can go add those puppies to your cart. You can try this for yourself when it becomes available by the end of this month, but be warned: it's addictive.
20 of the Cutest Korean Beauty Products You've Ever Seen
Korean beauty products are famous for being innovative, offering skin-loving ingredients and, frequently, adorable packaging. The over-the-top cute factor of K-beauty is one of the reasons the category has surged in popularity in recent years. Plus, it makes the goods completely irresistible.
Korean brands are great at transforming ordinary, boring products into items that seem to come straight from the sugar-filled imagination of a child. While in the United States we wrap our hair in boring velcro rollers, in Korea you can get your voluminous 'do from strawberry-shaped ones. Even hand creams in Korea are delightful. Whether you prefer a cream-cheese- or penguin-inspired bottle, there's a lotion that will get you excited to moisturize.
If you're tempted to upgrade to the most loveable products around, you're in luck. We've rounded up the cutest kitschy cosmetics that are sure to make you smile. Read on to see all the delightful beauty picks.
We've Found the 10 Best Foundations For Dry Skin
If you've ever applied foundation only to feel your skin flaking off in tiny bits, you know the struggle. The ideal foundations for dry skin are those that offer full and even coverage without feeling cakey or drying the skin out.
With that in mind, the following foundations are lightweight and add coverage, coming in at all price points for all skin needs - but they're mostly for you dry beauties out there.
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