Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

mercredi 14 mars 2018

16 Things We Know About The Handmaid's Tale Season 2

We're officially in some new fresh hell in 2018, and when it comes to The Handmaid's Tale, we're already looking ahead. If you read the book, you'll know that the first season finale ends in the same frustrating way the book ends: June is taken into a mysterious van and carted off to a mysterious future somewhere else. In this case, though, we don't have to wonder endlessly. How much can we uncover about the show's next chapter? Well, blessed be the fruit - we've got a lot to go over. Let's see what we could uncover (under his eye).

1. It's Going to Be Longer

While the first season was 10 episodes, the second has been extended to 13.

2. Alexis Bledel Will Reprise Her Role

Thought you'd seen the last of Ofglen/Emily? Not so fast. Bledel has been confirmed as part of season two's cast! We'll get a glimpse of Ofglen in the Colonies, the toxic wasteland where women who commit crimes are sent as punishment. "We get to see the colonies. It's a terrible place where they send Unwomen to work them to death," executive producer Bruce Miller said during a pre-Emmy panel in August. Bledel also commented on her character's new situation, saying, "I'm very interested to see what that looks like because it's a completely different world we haven't seen on the show yet - and I'm scared."

3. The Colonies Are Even Bleaker and Darker Than They Sound

A new feature by Marie Claire describes the Colonies in all their grim glory. As a refresher, the Colonies are where deviants (known as Unwomen) get sent for misbehaving. The new story describes the Colonies as "a dark and grime-filled wasteland." Costume designer Ane Crabtree offered a bit more insight. "The Unwomen are kind of the new Handmaids in season two. They're turning over soil, trying to move radiation, so they get filthy," she revealed. "They have probably six months - at best two years - to live. We're trying to show that humanity in their costumes. I made beautiful sheer pieces to be worn under their outfits since they strip down, as their clothing is full of radiation." Yikes.

4. The Trailer Is DARK

Here, we get a glimpse of all the mayhem that lies ahead. Offred is covered in blood and lighting things on fire! The Colonies are here, and they look f*cking awful! Tension is surely bubbling over, and we can't imagine what else this next bank of episodes might hold.

5. Surprise, Surprise: The President Has Inspired Parts of the Season

While season one of the show was planned before the 2016 election, the same is not true for season two. When it comes to some of Trump's "draconian policies," as Marie Claire phrases it, creator Bruce Miller can't help but incorporate today's reality into the fabric of the show. "Oh, I think we can't help but let it influence us," he said. "We have let it influence us. And there are a lot of issues we brought up last year that we want to address this year in ways we never had time to."

6. Things Are Only Going to Get Worse All Around

Earlier this month, The Pool interviewed Elisabeth Moss and grilled her on what's to come. "Wait till you see what's coming! It's going to get worse, girl. Season two is going to be bad too, really dark." Here we were, thinking June might have been rescued from the Waterfords. Maybe it's not that simple.

7. June Is Covered in Blood in a First Photo

You might remember how ruthlessly June is whisked away at the end of season one. We have no idea who takes her or where she even ends up. But if the first pictures of the season are any indication, she is certainly not safe. We're rooting for you, June!

8. June's Romance With Nick May Intensify

Elle ran a profile of Moss in early June, and she dropped a small tidbit about her Gilead lover, Nick. "It's part of the reason that I'm really excited about a season two, she's in this position where she might be in love with two people," Moss said, "Honestly, I think she does love Nick - if I can speak for her - but I don't know if she knows that she does yet. But she has a husband who she also loves, who's the father of Hannah, who she also now knows is alive."

9. Pay Attention to the Marthas

Showrunner Bruce Miller noted, "The Marthas in general in Gilead are kind of invisible . . . it's been great for us that it's been such a slow and careful building of a relationship between Rita and Offred. That slow and careful build-up in season one leads to a payoff so that we can use her more in season two."

10. We Might See Aunt Lydia's Backstory

Meanwhile, Miller also spoke to The New York Times about season two. Aunt Lydia could still play a key role in the show's next chapter. "Aunt Lydia is one of my most fascinating characters," Miller said. "We would like to explore her back story, and what the lives of the aunts are like."

11. The Mayday Resistance Is Another Key Component, but Let's Not Get Too Excited

It's easy to assume Mayday means salvation for the Handmaids, but not so fast. "The Mayday resistance is going to be a big part of Season two," Miller admitted. "The part that I've been thinking about is that Mayday is not the handmaid rescue organization - it's the anti-Gilead organization. And the anti-Gilead organization is not necessarily a friend to June or a friend to Handmaids. If I was going to try to hurt Gilead, the first thing I might do is kill all the handmaids. You're trying to weaken the state."

12. The Waterfords Aren't Necessarily Going Away

After the finale, Miller talked about what's to come. In regards to the Waterfords, he said, "They're still a part of our plans for season two but in interesting ways."

13. We Will Meet June's Mother

Miller also explained how June's parentage could factor into the story. Miller spoke about June's mother: "We've been thinking about her a lot. June's mother is a big character in the book and representative of an interesting kind of feminism that was seemingly more of that time."

14. The Theme

"At the end of season one, we find out June was pregnant. The theme of season two is motherhood and what it means to be a mother," Miller explained at The Handmaid's Tale panel in August. "It's the way we mother our good friends and the people in our lives."

15. Luke and Moira Might Attempt a Daring Rescue

During the panel in August, Samira Wiley discussed the new possibilities season two holds since it's going beyond the story of the book. "The [first] season ends exactly where the book ends, and to be able to go in season two not knowing what's going to happen and to be in this completely new country with Luke who's the only family I have, it's exciting to see what's going to happen," she said.

16. The Premiere Date Has Been Set

The second season is going to drop on April 25. Are you ready for it?

Prepare to Fall Head Over Heels For the Love, Simon Soundtrack

Love, Simon hits theaters on March 16, but we're already amped on the new, gay coming-of-age story. Love, Simon has the ingredients to be an incredible film: a lovely cast featuring Jennifer Garner, Josh Duhamel, Nick Robinson, and 13 Reasons Why's Katherine Langford; it's based on an acclaimed young adult novel; it boasts a truly wholesome mystery; and it marks an important moment in LGBTQ+ representation.

But that's not all: it also has a wicked soundtrack! Curated by Jack Antonoff, it's busting with new, upbeat bops that are balanced with a few surprising classics. Check out the first all-new track, "Alfie's Song (Not So Typical Love Song)" by Bleachers, then the handful of songs that have previously been released. Don't worry - we've also included a full tracklist at the end. Oh, and don't forget to preorder the soundtrack before it drops on March 16 (which is also the film's release date)!

Roseanne and Dan Look More in Love Than Ever in the Reboot's Opening Credits

Roseanne's upcoming reboot has plans to pay homage to the original series in a bunch of ways, from honoring late star Glenn Quinn to incorporating both of the actresses who played Becky throughout the show's nine-season run. On top of that, the show is making sure that the iconic opening credits that kicked off each beloved episode between 1988 and 1997 are still around, too. While the reboot doesn't premiere until March 27, you can get a sneak peek at what the new opening sequence looks like above. Just like the trailers for the new episodes, not much about the Conners has changed.

Kylie Jenner Flaunts Her Postbaby Body in a Crop Top at Tristan Thompson's Birthday Party

Kylie Jenner is "back at it again." At least that's what the new mom captioned a recent photo of herself showing off her postbaby figure in a crop top sweater and lace-up pants after giving birth to baby Stormi Webster last month. On Saturday, Kylie stepped out with her best friend, model Jordyn Woods, to attend Tristan Thompson's 27th birthday party, but first, the reality star spent the afternoon bonding with her daughter and sharing sweet videos on Snapchat. It was a busy day for Kylie, who also attended big sister Khloé Kardashian's baby shower that evening. Keep reading to see more photos of Kylie's sexy night out.

Queer Eye's Tom and Abby Are Engaged, and Now My Heart Is Exploding

Another Queer Eye wedding is in the works! A few weeks after episode four's AJ and Drey announced their engagement, episode one's fan-favorite couple Tom and Abby revealed they too are heading down the aisle . . . again!

The pair captured everyone's heart when Netflix's reboot of the reality show premiered, introducing us to sweet grandpa Tom Jackson. The Tex-Mex and "Hillbilly Margarita" enthusiast was open to all of the Fab 5's ideas and eventually opened up about how he hoped their changes to his life would help woo back his ex-wife, Abby. Clearly Bobby Berk, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and Jonathan Van Ness were able to make a lasting difference in Tom's day-to-day routine, because Tom and Abby are now engaged.

After a few weeks of will-they-or-won't-they tweets, Tom confirmed the happy news via Twitter. "It's official, Abby and I are engaged," he wrote. "What a Netflix special the would be. If the Fab 5 planned and attended our wedding!!!!!!!!!" When a fan asked if they could be the couple's flower girl, Tom noted that "everyone" is welcome to come to their wedding and that he hopes Bobby will be his best man.

As usual, everything Queer Eye-related makes us tear up.

Urban Outfitters Just Dropped Over 1,000 New Spring Items - Shop Our Favorites

If you're a fan of Urban Outfitters's '90s-inspired clothing, on-trend shoes, and sexy swimsuits, you're not alone. Every time we shop this mega retailer, it's hard to leave empty handed. Prepare to want to spend it all because the popular store just dropped over 1,000 new items to get you through Spring and Summer. So whether you're looking for cute floral dresses or the perfect festival outfit, it's all right here. Take a look at our favorites ahead.

This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Cook Steak

Steak is one of those things that intimidates a lot of people but really shouldn't. If you've ever struggled with cooking the perfect steak, this list of tips should help. We've turned to some of our favorite Food Network personalities and more celebrity chefs for their steakhouse-worthy cooking methods.

Alton Brown: Pan-Seared and Oven-Baked

For pan-seared rib eyes, Alton Brown recommends two key things: bring the steak to room temperature (it cooks quicker this way), and heat a cast-iron skillet in the oven while the oven heats to 500 degrees. He doesn't use the oven until the steaks have been seared first, but heating up the skillet before putting it on the stove helps get the process started and ensure a completely heated-through pan.

Giada De Laurentiis: Add Italian Flavors

Giada's Tuscan rib-eye steak recipe proves everything is better with Italian flair. If you're into rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon (who isn't?), this is the best way to cook your steak.

Ree Drummond: Butter-Rubbed Grill Pan

The Pioneer Woman's first blog post to go viral was titled "How to Cook a Steak," and it's easy to see why. Her "never-fail arsenal" is just three ingredients: "Lawry's Seasoned Salt, McCormick Lemon Pepper, and a nice stick of regular (salted) butter." Ree advises coating a hot grill pan in butter before searing the steaks. In the post, she promises, "If you cook it for your friends, they'll never invite you over to their house for dinner again. You will have permanently raised the bar."

Gordon Ramsay: Baste With Butter

It's no surprise that Gordon Ramsay's tip for steak is the same as his tip for burgers: baste with butter. Besides the fact that fat makes everything taste better, Gordon explains that coating steak with melted butter "gives it a nice nutty brown finish."

Ina Garten: Steakhouse-Style Filet Mignon

Leave it to The Barefoot Contessa to school us in making a restaurant-worthy dish at home. If you're feeling fancy and opt for filet mignon, you'll want to use a generous coating of fleur de sel and coarsely cracked black peppercorns to achieve a perfect crust. If you follow her recipe to a T, you'll be the one saying, "How easy is that?"

Chrissy Teigen: Soak in a Garlicky Marinade

Chrissy Teigen admits in her cookbook, Cravings, that she's normally a traditionalist when it comes to steak (page 206), but her husband John Legend's "best marinade in existence" changed her mind. A lot goes into it - soy sauce and garlic, for starters - and after marinating for eight hours, you're on your way to juicy, flavor-packed steak. "I would probably still go simple if I was staring at the most beautiful piece of beef I've ever seen, but use this tangy marinade on a nice, solid rib eye, and I promise you, it will be hard for you to have it any other way," she wrote.

Tom Colicchio: Grill on Each Side

Top Chef's Tom Colicchio recommends turning the steak a total of six times while it's on the grill (grill it for three to four minutes on each side, including the edges). He also recognizes that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to steak. In an interview with POPSUGAR, he said, "start with buying the perfect steak - you can't buy a lousy piece of meat and make it great."

Bobby Flay: Perfectly Grilled

Bobby Flay, master of the grill, doesn't bother with anything complicated for his perfectly grilled steak recipe. All you need is steak, oil, and salt and pepper - and Bobby always recommends oiling the meat itself, not the grill or pan.

12 Egg Hacks to Transform Your Breakfast Routine

Eggs are a household staple, yet so misunderstood! From extending an egg's shelf-life to cooking a perfectly poached egg to discovering the easiest way to whip up eggs for a crowd, allow these 12 egg hacks to completely transform the way you handle this key ingredient.

Disney Just Released a New Minnie Mouse Hat, and We Are So EXCITED!

Get ready to freak out, Disney-lovers. The official Disney store just released a newly designed Minnie Mouse Polka-Dot Ears Baseball Cap For Adults ($25). Let's be real: you can never have enough ears, and this pair is one of a kind. Rather than the traditional red polka-dot hat with solid-black ears that we're familiar with, this version features a black cap with dotted ears. We are loving the modern update.

The side of the hat features a cute little signature by Minnie herself. We have a feeling we'll be seeing this accessory all over Instagram soon enough. If you love the cap as much as we do, we suggest scoring it fast! This item will sell out at lightning speed.

mardi 13 mars 2018

I Have Anxiety, and This Household Activity Has Helped Me SO Much

"Clean house, clear head" rings so very true with me. As someone who is at a constant war with their anxiety, I'm always seeking healthy, straightforward ways to face my mental health head-on. My whole life, I've been what people jokingly called a "neat freak," a trait that I got honestly from my mom. I'm the person people roll their eyes at when I genuinely say that I like to clean. Still, I never realized the value of cleaning beyond a spotless home until I skipped my Saturday morning ritual after a long week and discovered how off-balance I felt.

My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace.

If you suffer from extreme anxiety, you know the feeling of panic that comes over you when things just don't feel right and you don't know how to fix them. It's easy for your whole world to feel off-kilter if just one element of it is disrupted, but cleaning your home can actually help your mental state right itself and restore balance. When I clean my house from top to bottom, I go into a quiet (and private) zone where I let all of my anxieties take the back seat to the task at hand. It's restorative for me, and best of all, I'm left with a sparkling house when all is said and done. Here's how cleaning can help your anxiety.

Cleaning is like meditation.

Nothing helps clear my head of all my frantic thoughts more than putting on music to block everything out and allowing myself to get into the complete cleaning zone. By concentrating on a simple task, I'm able to drown out anxiety by doing something productive and basic. If you're able to focus on your task and force all other negative thoughts out, cleaning can truly have a similar effect for some that meditation does.

It sets you up for a better day or week.

Coming home from a stressful day of work to house full of clutter, dirty dishes, and cat hair forming Texas-sized tumbleweeds of hair can cause me to feel like I may unravel completely. My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace. Spending time over the weekend to give your home a deep-clean can have a major effect on your anxiety, because it takes away a potential element of stress that may be the final straw on a particularly anxiety-ridden day.

It keeps you active.

Although exercise can help anxiety, it's not always for everyone. Unfortunately for me, the more anxious I am, the less prone I'll be to exercise, which can be a vicious cycle. However, cleaning your home is a way to do light exercise, keep your heart rate up, and allow your body to release endorphins, all without having to step foot in a gym.

It yields tangible results.

Anxiety can cause you to be completely overwhelmed. There are times when I feel like there is so much to do, I end up getting stuck on how to start, and I get even less done because of my inability to get past feeling like I'm drowning in unfinished tasks. Cleaning is a simple to solution to this problem. In scrubbing down the bathroom sink or vacuuming the floor, you're able to see tangible results. The manifestation of your hard work is right before your eyes, and this physical evidence of your efforts can be an extreme comfort for an anxious mind.

I Have Anxiety, and This Simple Activity Has Helped Me SO Much

My brain and emotions run on overdrive early in the morning before the sun has fully risen, all throughout the day, and (my personal favorite) in the middle of the night. I'm a Type A perfectionist. I'm also highly anxious. But most importantly, I am a hardcore book-lover. Oddly enough, all of these things are connected to my anxiety. On the extreme side, my anxiety can result in panic attacks. On a more regular basis, I spend large portions of the day keeping my anxiety at a low simmer rather than letting it boil over; and this simmer is something I have to actively work to maintain hour by hour, minute by minute.

Books are my happy place; reading is a solace when everything else feels scary.

It's exhausting, but for myself and many others, it's the way it is. I've tried various methods of dealing with my anxiety, from exercise and diet changes to lifestyle adjustments, meditation, medication, breathing techniques . . . you name it, I've done it. Many of these tactics have had varying amounts of success, but at the end of a long day, I often still feel drained and anxious. I noticed that the one method that has worked time and again in relaxing my mind and body also happens to be something I actively enjoy and would do regardless of what exciting new heights my anxiety has reached at the time: reading.

Unaware of the term "bibliotherapy," I've been practicing a method of easing anxiety that consistently works for me without even realizing it. The concept of bibliotherapy is pretty much what it sounds like. More recently it's been discussed in regards to Alain De Botton's company called School of Life, which has a bibliotherapy program. The site describes the service as one to "guide you to life-changing, eye-opening but often elusive works of literature, both past and present, the books that truly have the power to enchant, enrich and inspire." According to The Huffington Post, the company employs people to make reading recommendations "based on a consultation in which patients discuss their lives, their concerns and their reading histories." Can books make us happier? According to bibliotherapy and probably every book-lover on the planet, the answer is a resounding "yes".

This can also mean that reading can help ease anxiety. In my case, reading does this in a major way. Using a loose interpretation of the term "bibliotherapy" to describe treating books as my own form of self-medication (the good kind!), I've discovered that one of the few ways I can find peace and truly relax is with a novel in hand. Here's how books can help people coping with anxiety disorders.

Getting lost in another world takes your mind off your anxiety.

My mental state can have a very real effect on my physical state, so the more my mind spins out of control with worry and fear, the more likely my body will follow. Reading keeps these negative thoughts at bay and allows me to focus my energy on something positive instead. Books take me to another time and another place, and for fantasy-lovers like me, reading takes me to entire other worlds. I'm able to lose myself in those universes, and for a time, I'm able to divorce my physical state of being in the real world from my mental state. This separation is an absolute relief to those who constantly feel trapped by their own negative thoughts and feelings.

Books can ground you.

Part of feeling anxious is feeling like everything is out of your control. Despite the fact that reading fiction means immersing yourself in a world that isn't necessarily real, books can be oddly grounding for me. They are a solid, tangible thing in my hands that promise only good things. They are not threatening. They offer a sense of comfort when everything else feels like it's spiraling.

They help you feel connected to others.

Anxiety has the nasty effect of making those who suffer from it feel terribly isolated. Books, on the other hand, connect us all together, with their characters and the lives we live through them, through the cultures and worlds we experience as we read, and with the people who love the literature as much as we do. You don't feel so alone knowing that because of a book, you are a part of something way bigger than yourself, and others are a part of it with you.

Reading is a form of meditation.

I hate yoga. I spend the entire session inside my own head, working myself up, until all pretenses at finding my calm, happy place fly out the window. Same goes for traditional forms of meditation for me; in general, they are counterproductive and leave me feeling more anxious and, on top of everything, like I've failed at something. Reading, on the other hand, quiets my swirling, nagging, oppressive thoughts. Books are my happy place; reading is a solace when everything else feels scary. Settling down and diving into a good novel is the metaphorical process of wrapping oneself in a protective cocoon and shutting out all of the dangers from the outside world. It's peaceful and calm. Most importantly, it's safe - and anyone who deals with anxiety knows what a special and elusive thing that sense of safety can be.

The 9 Best Houseplants For Bathrooms

Anyone with a love for plants knows how they can cheer up a space! Indoor plants add a pop of color and freshness, and some can even help improve the air in your home. And what better room to freshen up than your bathroom? While it's not always the first room in your home you'd consider adding a plant to, your bathroom actually provides ideal growing conditions for certain species. With the moisture-heavy and often warm temperatures, bathrooms are the perfect place to add some flora to your home.

A Sleep Physician Reveals 20 Expert Secrets to a Better Night's Rest

Sleep has never come easy to me - and I know I'm not alone with this issue. Whether it's waking up countless times throughout the night, getting up in the morning feeling as if I didn't sleep at all, or having trouble actually nodding off at night, I'm always looking for ways to improve my rest.

Dr. Nate Watson is a sleep specialist, past president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), professor of neurology at the University of Washington, and codirector of the University of Washington Medicine Sleep Center. So we're going to go out on a limb and say he knows what he's talking about when it comes to sleep. He recently did an IamA on Reddit to address people's questions about how to improve their sleep habits, and his answers are so enlightening. Read on to see his helpful advice.

1. I have had issues falling asleep since I was 6. My brain wont quiet down. I am constantly thinking about something. Any tips?

"I suggest that you start a worry journal in the evening, set aside 15 minutes before you go to bed - write down your negative thoughts and then close the book, allowing you to go to bed with those thoughts on the page, not in your head."

2. How can a person determine how much sleep they actually need?

"Adults need seven or more hours, but each person is unique. You may need nine hours a night to feel rested. Take three weeks to fall asleep when you are tired and wake up refreshed without an alarm. That should determine how much sleep you need personally."

3. Why are some humans more nocturnal and others more diurnal?

"Chronotype is the notion that some people are 'morning larks' while others are 'night owls.' Much of this is genetically determined."

4. Why is that when I'm home I have to be laying down and comfortable to fall asleep and sometimes it still takes a while, but at work I can fall asleep sitting up in a chair with background noise all around?

"Sleeping better outside of your typical home environment may indicate a problem with your home sleep environment. Check out this page for a lot of info that may help."

5. Why do we sleep?

"Much of that is yet to be determined. We do know that the spaces in the brain expand to allow clearing out of the day's thoughts - like a garbage man for the brain."

6. What are some exercises (if any) you can do to improve REM sleep or deep sleep in general?

"A hot bath before bed has been shown to increase deep non-REM sleep. Some medications can reduce REM sleep (anti-depressants)."

7. I have diagnosed sleep apnea but hate the machine (can never sleep comfortably with it). Any advice ?

"1) Make sure you are of optimal weight 2) Avoid sleeping on your back to keep nasal passages clear. These are conservative measures. Other options are oral appliances custom fabricated by a dentist. There are also surgical options from ear, nose, and throat specialists. We always recommend seeing a board-certified sleep specialist to sort this out for you."

8. Do you have any tips for napping? I don't know how long it will take me to get to sleep, so how do I know when to set an alarm?

"Just set your alarm for 10-15 min. from when you lay down so you don't wake from a deeper stage of sleep and be groggy."

9. Does length of sleep have more of an affect on a person than the actual quality of it? At what point does quality and length even out?

"The bottom line is that very few people are able to succeed and be healthy on less than seven hours of sleep per night. Many who claim to get little sleep are probably exaggerating - and if they're not, I suspect that they would be even more successful, and much healthier in the long term, if their brains and bodies were fully charged with sleep. We tend to be poor judges of our alertness level, and we underestimate how we are affected by insufficient sleep. In addition, there is a ton of data to support that not getting enough sleep puts you at greater risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more."

10. Does this length of sleep needed to feel rested differ from person to person or do we all collectively need exactly eight hours as many are told from youth?

"While most adults need seven or more hours of sleep each night, a small percentage of people function well on less sleep. If you feel refreshed when you wake up and remain alert throughout the day without needing to take a nap, then you may be getting enough sleep. But the problem is that we tend to be poor judges of our alertness level, and we underestimate how we are affected by insufficient sleep. In addition, there is a ton of data to support that not getting enough sleep puts you at greater risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Try sleeping seven plus hours for a week, and I think you'll notice a more energetic, productive version of yourself that you didn't know existed."

11. Why don't I dream? Or rather why don't I remember my dreams?

"You for sure are dreaming. You only remember them if you wake from the dream. Not waking from REM sleep is good and indicates you likely have healthy sleep."

12. How does one deal with insomnia?

"If you think you may have insomnia, ask yourself the following questions: 1) Does it take you more than 30 minutes to fall asleep, or do you wake up during the night and have trouble returning to sleep, or do you wake up earlier than desired? 2) Do you have daytime symptoms such as fatigue, moodiness, sleepiness, or reduced energy? 3) Do you give yourself enough time in bed to get at least seven hours of sleep each night? 4) Do you go to bed in a safe, dark, and quiet environment that should allow you to sleep well? If you answered 'yes' to all of these questions, then you may have insomnia."

13. Are there any ethical restrictions against conducting studies to see how long people can go without sleep beyond a certain point, and what is the cutoff, if there is one?

"Rats die after about three weeks of total sleep deprivation. This is how we know sleep is essential to life. I have seen studies of 24-36 hours of sleep deprivation, but not much longer than that."

14. Did it ever happen to you that you were dreaming and you suddenly fall out of nowhere in your dream then wake up in panic thinking you just fell?

"That's called a 'hypnic jerk' and it is normal."

How is it that I wake up almost exactly one hour before my alarm goes off?

"You are probably thinking about this before you go to bed - this could be a self-fulfilling prophecy and I recommend not looking at the clock."

15. Is sleeping on your stomach bad for you? Is there anything such as a good sleeping position that keeps pressure of certain organs?

"Sleeping position is mostly personal preference, but if you can't sleep comfortably on your back, it may be a sign of sleep apnea."

16. I seem to sleep fine, but hell am I tired constantly; what's that all about?

"There are medical causes for fatigue that you should have checked out by your doctor. This could also be an indication of a sleep disorder. Sleep and sleep disease, such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, are increasingly recognized as vital to a wide variety of public health and chronic disease concerns, including obesity, hypertension, and cancer. Definitely make sure you getting at least seven hours, too."

17. Why do some people enjoy "white noise" while they sleep?

"There is some thought that white noise might replicate the sounds you heard in the womb - making it soothing for children and adults."

18. Have you studied lucid dreaming at all?

"It is something that you can teach yourself and it can be an exhilarating experience. Stephen Laberge has produced some excellent teaching materials. Check them out!"

19. How do you feel about taking melatonin before sleep? Sometimes when I take melatonin I will wake up at 5 or 6 in the morning no matter what time I go to sleep. Why is this?

"Melatonin is not a 'sleeping pill' per se and has never been FDA approved. If you take it, then take it at least three hours before your intended bedtime, if not sooner, to notice any effect."

20. Can I train my body to need less sleep?

"Sorry, no."

Let Your Slow Cooker Do All the Work With These 85 Easy Recipes

Instead of standing over a hot stove after work, come home to a fully prepared meal, thanks to your slow cooker. Slow cookers are extremely versatile, so we put together a broad range of recipes to satisfy any craving, from breakfast to dinner and dessert. Whether you're looking for a cozy stew, a gooey chocolate cake, or zesty pulled pork, your slow cooker will hook you up. Read on to discover the best slow-cooker recipes - 85, to be exact - for every occasion.

Chicken Parm Meatballs Combine 2 Comforting Italian-American Classics

Why There's So Much to Adore About the Instant Pot

Everyone has been talking about the Instant Pot. It's currently a top-selling kitchen item on Amazon. Despite its widespread popularity, is the multifunctional cooking device worth it? For a while, I scorned the Instant Pot like a unitasker. I already owned a rice cooker, pressure cooker, and slow cooker, after all. So why would I spend the cash for another appliance? Despite my initial judgments, I still felt pulled to try the cooker out and determine if it's a gimmicky fad or not. Let's just say, the results really surprised me and greatly exceeded my expectations. If you're wondering if an Instant Pot is for you (or IP, as seasoned users call it), here's a list of awesome things to know about the Instant Pot.

  1. Cook all the things in record time. The Instant Pot is essentially a pressure cooker that also has sauté and slow-cooker functions. Pressure cookers reduce cook time significantly. We're talking steel-cut oats in 10 minutes and chicken breasts in eight minutes. Most, if not all, dishes can be prepared in 20 minutes or less.
  2. The sauté function is truly awesome. You can adjust the heat, but I found it caramelizes veggies and meat faster and more uniformly than even stovetop cooking. As a bonus, nothing caked onto the bottom of my IP.
  3. You can switch between functions. Sear meat in the sauté function, then pressure cook or slow-cook it! Pressure cook something, then keep it warm. Changing up the functions allows you to create complex dishes in one pot.
  4. It's easy to use. Though there are lots of buttons on an Instant Pot and seemingly random beeps, the user manual and recipe guide (that come with the cooker) break each one down quickly so you can dive right into cooking with your device. Just be sure to read them! You shouldn't go rogue with this device.
  5. It does it all. While there are obvious things like making broth, soups, shredded chicken, and chili, the cooker does some extraordinary things. Make a big batch of eggs (frittata style). Steam up cake and cheesecake. Use it as a rice cooker. Defrost and cook frozen-solid meat in minutes. Forgo soaking dried beans and cook them in about 20 minutes. Make mac and cheese and other pasta dishes in only one pot. The list goes on . . .
  6. Cleaning is a breeze. I laughed as I lifted the IP pot and rinsed it in record time. The lightweight pot seems to be nonstick (in my experience), so all it needs is a fast, sudsy scrub-down, no exertion required.
  7. There's endless learning. Instant Pot's website and Pinterest's results for Instant Pot are two awesome sources of recipe inspiration and tips. There's also Facebook's Instant Pot Community that's very active (over a million users), where you can post or read troubleshooting questions and recipes.

All right, I love my Instant Pot. It's the ideal cooking appliance for busy people who are on a budget and want to cook homemade meals but lack one crucial thing: time! While I'm sure there are downsides to the Instant Pot, I haven't discovered them yet.

How to Pack a Perfect Mason Jar Salad

Packing a to-go salad in a mason jar seems like a great idea - it's an easy way to transport a vibrant, veggie-heavy meal without worries of dressing leaking into your bag - but if improperly assembled, it may end up underdressed, soggy, or less than fresh. Don't let that happen to you! Instead, follow this step-by-step guide, excerpted from Julia Mirabella's Mason Jar Salads and More: 50 Layered Lunches to Grab and Go ($16).

Reprinted from Mason Jar Salads and More by Julia Mirabella. Copyright (c) 2014 by Julia Mirabella. Published by Ulysses Press.

25 Foolproof Grilling Recipes For Complete Beginners

"Grilling" and "intimidating" don't have to be part of the same sentence. If you're a complete beginner, look no further than these easy grilling recipes anyone can master, from basic grilled shrimp to juicy grilled chicken and grilled vegetables kabobs perfect for an outdoor party. Throwing vegetables and meat on the grill gives your food that irreplaceable flavor that won't be achieved from roasting, and you'll convince yourself you're an actual pro after trying out these 25 foolproof ideas. This Summer, crank up the grill and discover a whole list of new recipes you'll want to make every season from here on out.

More Than 30 Lush, Chocolaty Desserts For Busy People

Just because you're busy doesn't eliminate the want need to indulge in something sweet and chocolaty when a craving hits. If time is truly of the essence, pick up a chocolate bar at the store; when you have a bit more wiggle room, you can do no better than these 30-plus easy, chocolate-rich recipes. Keep reading for a solid selection of brownie, cookie, hot chocolate, pudding, and other cacao-loaded treats that even the busiest or most beginner of bakers can tackle without breaking a sweat.

Alton Brown's Hack Will Forever Change the Way You Make Meatballs

A Little Love Goes a Long Way: Basic French Macarons

The Cheesecake Factory's "Brown Bread" Is Coming to Stores, So Prepare to Stock Up!

The Cheesecake Factory is mostly known for, well, cheesecake, but its "brown bread" comes in at a pretty close second in popularity. For the first time ever, you can now buy the famous honey-wheat bread in grocery stores, so you don't have to have a dinner reservation in the works to enjoy the addictive appetizer. The Cheesecake Factory is rolling out packaged Brown Bread in select grocery stores nationwide as early as this week, so keep your eyes peeled in the bakery section. The bread will be available in a few varieties: "heat and serve" dinner rolls (eight-pack for $3), mini baguettes (two-pack for $3), and ready-to-eat sandwich loaves ($4).

A representative for The Cheesecake Factory confirmed that the bread will first launch in Winn Dixie, Bi-Lo, and Harveys grocery stores, and additional markets nationwide will follow. The best part is this is a permanent product launch, so there's no need to rush before it flies off shelves. Brown Bread is the latest item to join The Cheesecake Factory's at-home line, which currently includes cheesecake mixes, chocolates, and cookie and cupcake mixes. It's never been easier to make your own Cheesecake Factory recipes at home!

Brace Yourself - Cheese Is Now a Popular Tea Topping

Some people love their tea with a little milk and honey. Others take their tea with cream and sugar. Me? I love it with cheese. That's right, I said it. Cheese.

Wait, don't run off. I promise you cheese tea is a real thing and tastes nothing like what you think it does. Right now you might be imagining a piping hot cup of tea topped with curdling fondue, or perhaps a mug of tea spiraled with a mountain of canned squeeze cheese, but you'd be wrong. Cheese tea is nothing like that. In fact, it's got more in common with cheesecake or a milkshake than it does pizza.

Cheese tea, which originated in Taiwan and worked its way through Asia before gaining popularity in the US, began as tea topped with cheese powder. Yet like all great culinary inventions, it has evolved over time and now consists of a cup of tea topped with a thick layer of creamy foam. The foam is typically made from a mixture of cream cheese, whipped cream, and milk. It's akin to a lightly whipped, cheesecake-flavored milkshake sitting delicately on top of your brew, and it's ready to become your next Instagrammable drink (seriously, prepare to get lost in the mesmerizing collection of photos on the #cheesetea hashtag).

The drink has been popping up in US boba shops over the last couple of years, and a cult following has been steadily growing. But if you still can't get into the idea of pairing cheese with your tea, then perhaps the next evolution will strike your fancy.

"The only way to taste the flavors as they blend together is to drink it like a beer."

I frequently order "cheese" tea from Enough Tea & Coffee in San Francisco, and I spoke with the shop's owner, Kris Wang, to hear about her rendition that I can't get enough of. She's decided to forgo the cheese completely and offers a Sea Salt Mousse Tea ($5, pictured above) instead. Much like regular cheese tea, Wang's offering has a delicious dairy foam atop freshly brewed iced tea, with the choice of black, green, or oolong tea. However, Wang, a culinary school graduate, has applied her skills and created a version that does not use any cheese. The result is a lightly sweetened cold iced tea topped with a slightly thick, sweet, and salty whip. It's a major upgrade from the whipped cream you might be used to.

When I asked about what Wang thought of the cheese-tea trend taking on America, she laughed and said that it's great but that she's worried people won't drink it correctly. She says the only way to taste the flavors as they blend together is to drink it like a beer. So whether you get your hands on a cheese tea or a cheese-free one, take off the lid, put down the straw, and cheers!

Strike Gold With This DIY Lucky Charms Ice Cream For St. Patrick's Day

The Perfect Cocktail For Your Zodiac Sign

Ever feel like there's that one cocktail that just speaks to you? It just might be your perfect zodiac match. And, hey, even if you don't read your horoscope every day, it doesn't hurt to find a new go-to cocktail recipe for every occasion. We've tapped cocktail expert Kat Odell, author of the recently published cookbook Day Drinking: 50 Cocktails For a Mellow Buzz ($11), for her advice on all things cocktail-related astrology. Read on to discover which cocktail you should stir up based on your zodiac sign, and learn why it's the best match, according to Kat herself. And, yes, as the name of her book implies, you have permission to drink it any time of day!

Make Your Own Irish Cream!

I have a great way for you to celebrate St. Patrick's Day: make your own Irish cream! More commonly known as Baileys, this rich, smooth, and delicious liquor can easily be made in the comforts of your kitchen. The recipe, which requires a blender, is similar to eggnog in that it combines a potent spirit, Irish whiskey, with eggs, cream, and seasonings such as vanilla and coconut extracts.

For a delightful after-dinner drink, serve it chilled or over ice. Homemade Baileys is also a festive gift; I've brought bottles to hostesses and always receive enthusiastic reviews. Get the simple but fantastic recipe.

Bake a Great-Grandmother's Soda Bread

The Best Way to Store Greens

If your greens are wilting within a few days of bringing them home from the store, you can prevent it with this quick storage tip. First, wash the greens thoroughly in cold water. Submerge them in bowl full of cold water at least three times before spinning them dry. Then line a resealable bag or tupperware container with a paper towel. Transfer the greens, then top them with another paper towel. Seal the bag (some air inside is OK) or pop the lid on the tupperware and store in the fridge. That's it! This technique should keep them crisp and fresh for well over a week. You'll never suffer from using sad, mushy greens again.

The 7 Best Salads at Trader Joe's

During a busy week, Trader Joe's extensive selection of premade salads can be a real lunchtime savior. Not only are there a variety of flavorful, filling options, but at around $4 a pop, these salads are much more economical than takeout. We asked our editorial staff to chime in with their favorites; pick up a couple on your next Trader Joe's run, and let us know if we missed your go-to.

How to Cook 1-Pot Fancy Mac and Cheese in 15 Minutes

I Tried the Pioneer Woman's Best Tomato Soup Ever Recipe and I'll Never Do Store-Bought Again


One of my ultimate cozy dinner indulgences is definitely a bowl of piping-hot tomato soup accompanied by a grilled cheese. Depending on how ambitious I felt, I used to satisfy my cravings by whipping up a delicious but slightly labor-intensive Ina Garten recipe (which requires chopping four pounds of vine-ripened tomatoes) or cave and grab a sub-par store-bought version. It wasn't until I discovered Pioneer Woman's best tomato soup ever recipe that I realized I could actually pull off great-tasting tomato soup in just 25 minutes. I made this last night after work and even had the table set and wine poured by the time my husband walked through the door, which never happens.

Leave it to Ree Drummond to come up with flavor-boosting, time-cutting hacks like adding a bottle of tomato juice, a can of diced tomatoes, and chicken bouillon for a quick and tasty soup base. The tartness of the tomatoes is balanced with a few tablespoons of sugar. Cream, basil, and parsley pull it all together at the end, adding a velvety richness that is brightened by the fresh herbs. After the first bite, it's easy to understand why more than 300 people are raving about this satisfying soup that doesn't require a single fresh tomato. If you're looking to treat yourself on a chilly night, whip this up with a side of grilled cheese. You won't be sorry.

This Is the Simple Diet Rule Katy Perry's Trainer Recommends If You Want to Slim Down

As important as it is to work out regularly if you want to lose weight, your diet is the most crucial part of getting healthy. Celebrity trainer and wellness expert Magnus Lygdback teaches this to all of his clients, whether it's Alicia Vikander, Gal Gadot, or Katy Perry. Yep, those are some pretty badass women.

"I work with a lot of strong women," Magnus told POPSUGAR. "I would love to try to help women get into the gym and start lifting - and stop having a guilty conscience when you treat yourself."

Magnus does a lot of strength training with his clients, which explains why Katy always looks slim and toned. But it's not just the work in the gym that allows her to be fit. Magnus helps women like Katy change their relationship with food, so they can be both healthy and happy. "How many women do you know who can have a slice of pizza and not have a guilty conscience? I don't know many," he said. "Food is a big part of life, and it should be enjoyed."

Obsessively eating clean six days a week and then having a whole "cheat day" doesn't align with Magnus's plan. "17 out of 20 meals should be on point, and you should enjoy life three out of 20," he recommended. "So it's up to you when you want to do those three meals out of 20, but that's my philosophy."

Additionally, one great thing about doing strength training regularly is you can "get away with more of what you eat," Magnus explained. "You burn more when you have more muscle mass." So those three meals shouldn't leave you with any guilt at all.

This philosophy seems to have been working for Katy Perry over the years! She was nominated for two Brit Awards on Feb. 21, and even though she didn't take home the gold, at least she knows how to enjoy a slice of pizza.

A Beachbody Trainer Insists These 3 Lower-Body Exercises Will Transform Your Legs and Butt

The weather is starting to get warmer, which means it's time to whip out the shorts and skirts that have been collecting dust all Winter. Naturally, that means a lot of us will wonder what kind of lower-body moves we can do at the gym to shape up our legs and booty. To get a little extra help in that department, we talked to Joel Freeman, a Beachbody Super Trainer, who gave us a few pointers.

"With lower-body stuff, if we're talking bodyweight, anything squat-related or lunges is great," Joel told POPSUGAR. "People discount lunges. They think they're not going to grow the booty, but lunges are just as important to grow the booty as well as squats."

There are endless variations of squats and lunges you can do, but Joel advised, "It's not necessary to throw a massive amount of weight and compress your spine to build your legs and booty. It's just about doing isolation exercises, and doing it the right way." Using the squat rack every now and then is fine, but you don't need to worry about tacking on as much weight as possible in order to see changes in the body.

In addition to squats and lunges, Joel said, "One of my favorites is bridge, where you're lying on your back and you're lifting your hips into the air. That's all butt and quads right there." If you want to challenge yourself further, add a dumbbell onto your lap for more resistance.

Joel also reminded us that "you can't target train." In other words, you can't exclusively do lunges, squats, and bridges and expect to see a major change in your body. You have to continue to eat healthy, incorporate cardio into your routine, and get plenty of sleep. Soon enough your lower body will show the amazing results!

Burn Calories, Build Muscle, and Lose Weight With This 10-Minute Workout

You can absolutely get in an amazing workout in just 10 minutes. This combo workout has the best of both worlds: cardio to burn calories and strength training to build muscle. All you need are a jump rope (if you don't have one, just fake it!) and a pair of medium-weight dumbbells.

The Workout

Directions: An AMRAP workout means you complete as many rounds as possible in a certain amount of time. For this workout, set the timer for 10 minutes and move through as many rounds as you can of these nine exercises, as quickly as possible with correct form. That means once you get to the last rep of deadlifts, start over again with jumping rope and keep going without any rest. It's just 10 minutes - you can do it!

Challenge yourself and use heavy enough dumbbells to make you work hard and feel your muscles burning, between eight and 25 pounds.

50 jump rope skips (single-unders)
10 dumbbell thrusters
50 jump rope skips (single-unders)
10 alternating lunges with biceps curl
50 jump rope skips (single-unders)
10 push-ups with rotate
50 jump rope skips (single-unders)
10 Romanian deadlifts

If you need directions for each move, see below.

The 6 Stretches For Anyone With Tight Hamstrings

If you run, bike, are desk-bound all day, or have been sitting in a car or plane traveling, your hamstrings could use some extra love and length. It not only feels good to stretch this commonly tight area, but hamstring flexibility is also important for the health of your back, hips, and knees. Here are six easy and essential stretches that target the backs of your legs. To avoid injury, it's best to do them at the end of a workout, when the muscles are warm.

Satisfy Carb Cravings - Minus the Calories - With These Trader Joe's Cauliflower Products

You love cauliflower because it's low in carbs and calories and so versatile in creating healthy recipes like cauliflower rice and beans and cauliflower potato salad. To make eating this amazing white veggie even easier, head to Trader Joe's - they offer so many amazing products. Their latest? This Cauliflower Pizza Crust - just a heads-up that it's in such high demand that Trader Joe's is having a hard time keeping it stocked! But try these other amazing products that are sure to satisfy your cauliflower obsession.

The Fitness Marshall's Routine to Beyoncé's "Naughty Girl" Is Sexy, Silly, and 1,000% Fun

We hoped and we prayed, and our lord and savior Queen Bey finally answered our prayers with a "Naughty Girl" dance cardio video from The Fitness Marshall. From "flamboyantly" flinging your arms to feeling yourself with sultry body rolls, this is one of our favorite dances of all time from Caleb, Haley, and Bria. Pus, there's a great calorie-burning tip in here from Caleb: "If you lip sync and pretend you're Beyoncé, you burn more calories."

Not Gonna Lie, This 20-Minute Full-Body TRX Circuit Is Going to Kick Your Ass

Welcome to the "TRX full-body circuit party!" This badass gym workout was brought to you by Michelle Opperman, regional group fitness director for Crunch Gyms in San Francisco.

"The TRX is an amazing tool that leverages gravity and your own body weight to perform exercises that can be made easier or harder by simply moving closer or farther away from the anchor point," Michelle told POPSUGAR. "Please make sure to always focus on proper alignment, along with keeping the straps at tension to get the most out of each exercise."

Now, for the workout! "This 20-minute workout will rock your entire body and is done in five circuits," she said. "The first three focus on full-body strength and cardio, while the last two target your core. All moves are done for 30 seconds followed by a 10 second recovery (use an app timer, phone, or watch). Repeat each circuit for a total of two rounds. Try to go even harder during the second round to push the intensity and get the maximum burn."

Michelle included four warmup exercises before you actually get into the circuits. Don't skip out on them! They'll prepare your body for what's ahead. Once you get started with the meat of your workout, you repeat each circuit twice before moving onto the next one. Descriptions for each movement are ahead.

Let's do this!

3 Simple Habits That Help Me Manage My Mental Health Every Day

If you suffer from anxiety or depression, you might find your mental health affecting different areas of your life when left unchecked. As someone who gets the blues often regardless of the time of year or what's going on in my life, I've found that the key to starting and ending every day on the right foot means relying on a few daily rituals.

Sleep More

Fatigue and sleeplessness are considered common symptoms of depression, so getting enough sleep is something I prioritize. It helps me feel less lethargic and more excited to face the day. When I'm stressed about something or going through a busy period, sleep tends to fall by the wayside, and my resulting tiredness can heighten my feelings of anxiety. Making sure I get enough sleep is as simple as setting up a bedtime alert on my iPhone that lets me know 20 minutes before I have to be in bed if I want to hit my sleep goal.

Be Active

If feeling lazy and unproductive is a trigger for you, making time to do something that gives you a sense of accomplishment can be a way around that. In the past, I've put myself down and forced myself into a punishing workout to make up for simply missing a Spin class or not getting up early enough to work out. When I know there's absolutely no way to squeeze a workout into my day and don't want to deal with the emotional fallout of feeling unaccomplished, I do small things like walk up the escalators rather than stay stationary and walk the long way home rather than get the bus.

Blast Some Music

While it may seem rude to most people, plugging my earphones in and listening to my favorite tunes helps to focus and calm me when I'm feeling particularly overwhelmed during my workday. It's also no secret that listening to music can trigger the release of happy hormones in your brain, which makes you feel loved and increases your sense of well-being.

What You Should Smell Like, According to Your Zodiac Sign

Lately, it seems like you can rep your zodiac sign in all aspects of your beauty routine. You can match your favorite highlighter or lipstick to your star sign, or take a page out of artist Setareh Hosseini's beauty book and dress up as your horoscope for Halloween. And now, the trend has come for your shower thanks to Spongellé's Zodiac Body Buffer Collection.

You probably know (and plan your love life around) the zodiac. Spongellé has broken up all 12 horoscopes into their respective elements to create celestial scrubs tailor-made to suit your sign.

Here's a quick crash course in astrology for those who only relate to Earth, Wind, and Fire on the dance floor. Air includes Aquarius, Libra, and Gemini; Earth includes Capricorn, Virgo, and Taurus; Fire includes Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius; and Water includes Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio.

The scrub's lather omits a fragrance that's set to suit your sign. It can be reused for up to 15 times, or about half of your birth month. Read on to see what you should be smelling like, according to the Zodiac.

These 20 Treatments For Thinning Hair Actually Work - According to Pros

If you've noticed your hair thinning, you're not alone. "As a salon owner and hairstylist, thinning hair and hair loss are the top concerns of my clients. They all ask me how can they achieve thicker, fuller hair while finding a way to get hair to regrow," says Gabriel Samra, a celebrity hairstylist.

That said, being in good company isn't exactly comforting when you're literally watching your hair wash down the drain. While some hair loss might indicate a deeper medical issue and therefore need to be treated by a doctor, it could be due to stress or poor hair health (see here for a list of common causes), in which case hair experts say you can take matters into your own hands.

From supplements to fillers (it's like Botox for your hair), read on for some of the innovative and sometimes unusual (gelatin, anyone?) products they recommend to clients seeking thicker hair. Some of these picks have proven so successful that the experts have incorporated them into their own regimens.

After Trying This Lip Balm, I'm Throwing Away All of the Other Ones in My Purse

Author's Note: As you may have noticed, I work for POPSUGAR. But this review is a genuine take on a new favorite product and was neither requested nor influenced by my employer. I'm just really f*cking pumped about this lip balm, y'all.

Hi, everyone. My name is Brinton, and I'm a lip balm addict. As I type this, I can count at least six different types of lip balm sitting in various spots on my desk, and that's just what I can see - there are a handful of others in my purse, not to mention scattered around my apartment. From tinted to clear, potted to tubed, I've been around the block more than once when it comes to keeping my lips hydrated.

I was simultaneously struck with delight and an overwhelming craving for Girl Scout cookies - and the delight part isn't something I experience often.

When my boss, Lisa Sugar, asked me to help test and honestly review products as she developed for our new beauty line, I was most skeptical about the lip balm. How could Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Calm Lip Save ($20) possibly stand out from the countless others I've been through over the years?

But I needn't have worried about giving negative feedback on the balm - as it turns out, I should have been concerned that I'll bankrupt myself buying a million tubes of it.

For context, I judge a lip balm based on seven factors:

  1. Consistency: Is it so sticky that my hair will get stuck to my mouth on a windy day or make my fiancé avoid kissing me?
  2. Staying power: Am I going to need to reapply it every hour to keep my lips moisturized or will one swipe be good all day?
  3. Appearance: Few things gross me out more than when a lip product ends up looking gunky on your mouth after a few hours, so I pay very close attention to how a balm looks over the course of a day.
  4. Long-term effectiveness: Is this one of those shady balms that actually causes lips to become more reliant on a product or will it work to heal my perpetually chapped lips?
  5. Ingredients: What's actually in the balm I'm using? Since I'll inevitably get it in my mouth, I don't want an ingredients list filled with chemicals and ingredients that make me feel icky.
  6. Cruelty-free formula: Whenever possible, I strive to support brands that develop and manufacture products without animal testing.
  7. Scent: This one is pretty straightforward - does the lip balm smell good? If it smells ultra synthetic or chemical, I'm not interested.

Luckily for me - and, I suppose, for all of us - the new balm blows all of my criteria out of the water. It's got a nonsticky formula that lasts all day (even through burritos, which I've tested more times than I'd like to admit), it stays consistently natural-looking without any gross buildup, and it's made with a natural, cruelty-free formula that actually treats your chapped lips rather than just lending temporary relief. But best of all, my friends, is that it smells like the very best Girl Scout cookie: Thin Mints. The instant I first applied Be Calm Lip Save, I was simultaneously struck with delight and an overwhelming craving for cookies - and the delight part isn't something I experience often.

Out of 80-plus products in the Beauty by POPSUGAR line, the lip balm is by far my favorite! It's got me ready to throw away all the rest of my lip balm collection . . . and for somebody with as many tubes of lip product as I have, that's not a small undertaking. But once I discovered that it can also be used as a treatment for dry hands and elbows, I knew I was hooked. Who can resist double-duty beauty that smells like cookies? I know I can't.

You can find Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Calm Lip Save ($20) at Ulta or on the dedicated Beauty by PS website along with the rest of the 80+ items in the collection.

11 Hydrating Balms Your Chapped Lips Will Soak Up in 2018

I have a lip balm for my car, purse, nightstand, bathroom . . . the list is endless. Needless to say, I'm a total addict, and if you are too, you know how important it is to have one you love using. To make life easier, we rounded up a list of popular and hydrating products that will help you fight off dry, cracked lips. So whether you're headed on vacation or live in a cold climate, these picks are total must haves. Shop our favorites ahead.

This Smurf-Blue Mask Will Transform the Texture of Your Skin

The volatile weather in New York City is wreaking havoc on my complexion; I've been breaking out in small bumps, and my normally well-hydrated skin is developing small dry patches all over. I turned to the Sephora Beauty Insider Community to see if I could find a solution to my troubled skin and saw that many people were suggesting the Herbivore Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask ($48).

The mask contains blue tansy oil (Moroccan chamomile), a strong anti-inflammatory that soothes irritated and red skin - something most of us could really use during the harsh Winter months. However, the real heroes in this azure elixir are the white willow bark and fruit enzymes. White willow bark is a natural beta hydroxy acid, a chemical exfoliant more commonly known as salicylic acid. This ingredient smooths the texture of your skin and battles acne. The fruit enzymes act as a natural alpha hydroxy acid, which helps to exfoliate and resurface your skin.

I decided to give the mask a try and spread the gel-like product over my freshly washed skin. After leaving it on for 15 minutes and experiencing a light tingling sensation, I rinsed my face. I continued to use the mask every other day for a week and was amazed by how quickly it improved my weather-worn skin. After experiencing these impressive results, the mask has become a must have in my medicine cabinet each time my complexion becomes irritated.

10 Awesomely Affordable Wet n Wild Products - Starting at Just $2!

Wet n Wild was my go-to brand as a broke, makeup-loving high school student. I loved that I could afford to try out a different shade of lipstick, and get a ton of eye shadow all on my very small budget. As I got older and tried more expensive brands, I kept finding my way back to many of my tried and true Wet n Wild products in my massive collection.

Although I always get a look of surprise when I recommend something so affordable to my friends, they always thank me. The products just work.

Before you decide to splurge on the next $40 highlighter, or $50 eye shadow palette, consider picking up these (just as good) makeup items the next time you're at the drugstore.

This $40 Flat Iron Is a Bestseller on Amazon - Just Ask the 30,000 Reviewers Who Love It

Finding high-quality heating tools that don't cost a fortune is no easy feat. That's where this HSI Professional Glider Flat Iron ($40) comes in. It's a bestselling beauty product on Amazon, and for good reason. Over 30,000 customers have reviewed it, and 70 percent of them gave the product five stars - that's insanely good.

The iron even comes with a heat-protecting glove, travel bag, and argan oil. Buyers say that their tresses are left incredibly shiny and smooth. "High quality ceramic plates use eight HeatBalance micro-sensors to regulate the temperature and evenly distribute heat so fewer passes are needed on your precious hair," the product description states.

The straightener can get as hot as 450 degrees, and the one-inch plate is skinny enough to work with any hair length. You can even use it on bangs.

"In love with this flat iron!" one reviewer said. "Even my hair stylist wanted to steal it. The packaging was elegant and detailed, I loved every aspect of it. I've had it for the last month and it's been nothing short of perfect, it even makes these amazing curls!"

Are you sold yet? We're adding this to our shopping cart right now. It's too good to pass up.