Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 26 mars 2018
Ivanka Trump Did a Scientist Cosplay, and Naturally the Internet Lost Its Collective Sh*t
Talking #WorkforceDevelopment and Infrastructure in Iowa today! @realDonaldTrump's #Infrastructure initiative includes a robust plan to expand skills-focused learning to prepare the next generation of American workers for 21st century job opportunities. pic.twitter.com/10md8d5tnz
- Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) March 19, 2018
Another day in Trump's America, another drama - but this time, it's all about the first daughter.
On March 19, Ivanka Trump set off a chain of events that was so thoroughly predictable, we found ourselves waiting for each shoe to drop: the daughter of the most powerful man in America shared a photo of herself cosplaying the platonic ideal of a scientist, in full lab regalia, in support of Donald Trump's (by all accounts failing) infrastructure plan.
"Talking #WorkforceDevelopment and Infrastructure in Iowa today!" Ivanka captioned the photo, adding, "@realDonaldTrump's #Infrastructure initiative includes a robust plan to expand skills-focused learning to prepare the next generation of American workers for 21st century job opportunities."
Naturally, the internet had a field day with this striking revelation, and it would seem that for all intents and purposes, the current administration did not learn much from the whole KellyCards debacle last year, as it once again allowed a visual that could not slide under the meme radar (a fact that was certainly not lost on the savvy denizens of the web).
Ivanka Trump pitches workforce development in Iowa and visits a science and Robotics lab. #sciencing #iknowwhatiamdoing pic.twitter.com/BGkBXJvHSp
- Mary Viglione (@MaryViglione) March 20, 2018
- Joe Berkowitz (@JoeBerkowitz) March 20, 2018
Hey @IvankaTrump it's great that you like to cosplay as a scientist on Instagram but some of us are an #ActualLivingScientist. Tell us about what you're doing in this picture. I'm making a battery. #ILookLikeAnEngineer pic.twitter.com/fW5CFxLYAF
- Holly aka Leia 🚀 (@absolutspacegrl) March 20, 2018
Ivanka: We want to take pictures of your jobs
Scientists: Great, we'll make sure to look our best.
Ivanka: I actually meant pictures of me pretending to do your jobs. Sorry. https://t.co/WekmSrFKwf- Awesome Sauce (@captidiotdad) March 19, 2018
. @IvankaTrump We see you are training for the Space Force. Tell us about your experiment. We want all the details. pic.twitter.com/Ua2PJk7Ub4
- Rogue NASA (@RogueNASA) March 20, 2018
In all fairness, Ivanka did at one point appear to be taking up the good fight when it came to women's rights and pay equality. But since her father took office, she's done the literal polar opposite. And at this point it's also probably worth noting that she wasn't out in the Beltway witnessing scientists develop a cure for illness - she was meeting with high school students and checking the nicotine levels in "vape juice."
Pregnant? Announce It the Geeky Way!
The only bad thing about having a memorable geeky wedding is the pressure to continue the awesomeness once a little one comes along. Fear not - we've scoured the 'net for the best pregnancy announcements that you'll want to copy as soon as you're ready to share the news. And congrats!
Source: Imgur user DominicGraziano
Fuller Lips Without Filler? These Pros Share 9 Insider Tips
Call it whatever you will - the Kylie Jenner effect, the filler phenomenon - but there's no denying the popularity of a full, juicy lip.
In 2016 alone, over 28,000 people threw down cash in the name of an enhanced pout via fillers and, since the year 2000, the plastic surgery industry has seen a nearly 50-percent increase in lip augmentation procedures.
So nope, you're not imagining it! It seems as if everyone is rocking bigger lips these days.
While filler is certainly one way to enhance your lip line, you don't have to reach for the needle to achieve a plump pout. We reached out to a handful of makeup artists and got them to dish on their best techniques and favorite products for creating a fuller looking lip without a visit to the plastic surgeon's office.
I Finally Found a Dry Shampoo That Won't Make My Brunette Hair Chalky - and It's Only $9
I am a devout user of dry shampoo, but many formulas leave my brunette hair looking like an 18th century powdered wig. The chalkiness makes my dark locks appear dull and faded. Luckily, I finally found a solution that doesn't give me Marie Antoinette vibes. Batiste Dry Shampoo ($9) in Beautiful Brunette is one of the bestselling hair products on Amazon. It has almost 3,000 reviews and 67 percent of customers give it five stars.
The secret to the formula is that it's made with a brown tint. The color works for any hue of brunette hair, cool or warm. On top of finally resolving the powdery problem I was facing, it also immediately banishes excess oil and gives my strands tons of volume. The clean, floral fragrance smells amazing; it's the perfect pick-me-up in between washes.
All you have to do is hold the bottle about a foot away from your hair, spray it on your roots, and lightly massage it in. Once you're finished, make sure to wash your hands so you don't get any brown residue on your clothes. After that, you can style your locks however you please.
"I have tried other brands of dry shampoo and will never go back," one customer said. "This is by far the best. It goes on so easily. I barely have to brush it out at all. The brown tint matches my hair color perfectly. It works like magic to eliminate oil in my super fine, thin hair and I do not have to wash everyday, which is my goal. Highly recommended."
This stuff changed my life - I'm begging you to give it a shot. I suggest buying the three-pack because you're going to be utterly addicted.
11 Editor-Approved Eyeliners Every Makeup-Lover Needs to Try This Year
Once you find a good eyeliner, you have to hold it near and dear to your heart. An option that fulfills all of your needs can be difficult to find! Whether you like liquid, kohl, or gel, we rounded up the top-rated options you need to try this year. These picks are worth every penny, trust us.
dimanche 25 mars 2018
The Cast of The West Wing Has a Message For Every American About Voting Rights
It will be 12 years this May since The West Wing ended its seven-season run, but the Aaron Sorkin drama continues to be one of the most loved (and binged) television series in history. The show's in-depth, highly addictive depiction of the inner workings of the White House is something that has continually served as a cultural touchpoint for the American democracy; even today, watching the plot unfold on the small screen can deliver brand-new meaning to the headlines we read and new depth to the punditry we witness on a day-to-day basis.
But while the cast may just play politicos on TV, in the past they've come together to use their TV fame to stump for issues they feel strongly about in real life, like in 2015 when they reunited in partnership with the Obama administration to transform a first-season episode into a clever engagement campaign. But on March 22, the cast once again reassembled for an issue that should be top of mind for all Americans in 2018: voting rights.
In order to bring awareness to an issue that has the potential to fall through the cracks without our sincerest attention, NowThis produced a video that reminds us all why we loved each and every character in the long-running series so much and how important it is for all of us to exercise our civic duty in the midterm elections and cast ballots at our polling places. Above, watch the video in full - and hot tip, there's no shame in streaming all of The West Wing on Netflix tonight; it's certainly what I'll be doing, in lieu of cable news.
The Whole World Is Talking About Fortnite Battle Royale Right Now – Here's What You Need to Know
If you spend any time playing video games – or know anyone who does – chances are you've heard the name Fortnite at least once over the last nine months. But with the March 17 launch of Fortnite Battle Royale on iOS, the game has reached a whole new level of ultra-virality – not only is it sitting at the top of the charts in the App Store, it's got a waiting list a mile long eagerly awaiting access.
If at this point you're wonder what exactly Fortnite is, ahead we break down every little thing you need to know about the franchise that is taking the world by storm.
The backstory
Fortnite appeared in our lives back in July 2017, when the game – billed as a cross between Minecraft and PUBG – launched on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC/Mac. The original game centered on the 2 percent of Earth's population who survived a mass extinction event, and challenged users to create shelters and defeat zombie-like creatures in order to live another day and bring the world back to normal.
While Fortnite proved to be super popular, what truly broke through was the game's eventual free-to-play spin-off, Fortnite Battle Royale. Unlike its longform older brother, the free game doesn't focus on long-term survival of the fittest; instead, it's a co-op centered around a core group of 100 players fighting to be the last man standing. A Battle Royale indeed.
The rise of Fortnite Battle Royale – among *literally* everyone
We may have alluded to this previously, but the game got very popular by the time 2018 rolled around. Not convinced? Just take a quick look at Drake – yes, that Drake – duking it out alongside Twitch star Ninja:
Outside of Drake, it was recently revealed that a number of NBA stars are unbelievably addicted to the game and that celebrities and e-sports pros alike would be going head-to-head at the video game conference E3 this year. But outside of the more mainstream faces, many have begun to argue that it's the biggest game on Earth right now, and honestly, that wouldn't surprise us in the slightest.
Fans line up for the mobile version of the game
Now that you know the backstory, it should come as no surprise that the eagerly-awaited mobile version has a hefty waiting list. If you aren't in the loop with someone who has easy access to an invite, you can sign up for one on the Fortnite website and eagerly await entry – but it's worth noting that you must own an Apple device running iOS to play. While Epic Games has plans to release the game on Android as well, there is no date set in stone just yet.
Here's the good news, though: the game is still free-to-play on consoles and computers, so even if you can't get access to the mobile game right away we highly recommend checking it out via those platforms as soon as possible.
Seriously? Duckie Thot Still Has to Bring Her Own Foundation Shade to Photo Shoots
Image Source: Getty / Alberto E. Rodriguez
Model and occasional Barbie Doll doppelganger Duckie Thot is one of the most sought-after models of the moment, having fronted Fenty Beauty's campaign and starred in the 2018 Pirelli calendar. Yet somehow, the Australian and South Sudanese model still has to bring her own foundation shade to shoots.
As Duckie told the Evening Standard magazine, ES, "I take my own makeup to shoots every time. I'll give the makeup artist the space and we'll shoot. If it doesn't look good, then we'll change to what I know works. If you're doing makeup on my skin, no one knows my face more than me."
Duckie also said that her preferred bases of choice right now include Fenty and Lancôme foundations. But it's taken the 22-year-old her whole life to find the right shade. "Growing up, makeup was ordered online, shipped from America or London. I found it difficult - I'm really, really dark: sometimes even the MAC shades weren't dark enough," she said, referencing the brand that currently offers 42 shades of foundation.
Image Source: Getty / Astrid Stawiarz
The model has been outspoken about the difficulties of being a woman of color working in the fashion industry. When she was a contestant on Australia's Next Top Model, Duckie had to do her own natural hair when shoot stylists didn't know how to handle her unrelaxed strands. "I was extremely upset and embarrassed that they 'didn't know how' to cornrow my natural hair when at the end of the day that's their job. I sat in front of the mirror silently crying before my shoot doing my own hair, cameras rolling while all the other girls had hairstylists, sh*t scared I was going to get eliminated because a few hairstylists didn't know how to do their job," she recalled in an emotional Instagram post back in 2016.
So while the beauty industry continues to make strides in representation and the inclusion of models of color, let this be a reminder that the biz still has a long way to go. Regardless of that, Duckie stays slaying.
You Won't Believe This Gorgeous House Is Only 362 Square Feet
"At under 400 square feet, our Craftsman cottage is indeed tiny, but in the five years we've been here, we've never needed more space," says Whitney Leigh Morris, small-space living aficionado, designer, and blogger behind The Tiny Canal Cottage. So what's her secret to making everything fit? "Nearly everything about the cottage - from the built-ins to the decor - was deliberately chosen to maximize the space. I selected furniture and accessories over time as we learned how to best navigate this particular layout with one another." Whitney recently refreshed her Venice Beach, CA, home for Spring, and the pictures were so stylish and full of small-space living inspiration that we had to share them with you. Take a look at Whitney's gorgeous digs and tiny-space living tips here, and then shop the look on Joss & Main.
10 Game of Thrones Filming Locations That You Can Visit
Now that another season of Game of Thrones has come and gone, we're ready to experience a taste of Westeros in any way we can. According to top travel site TripAdvisor, interest in GOT-inspired vacations has skyrocketed, with 10 filming locations from the show topping travelers' bucket lists. Appropriately, at the tippy-top of the list sits the filming location for Meereen, the pyramid city where Daenerys Targaryen and her dragons get their first taste of ruling a large civilization.
If you're planning a Game of Thrones pilgrimage, don't worry about consulting a maester for advice - TripAdvisor's findings will help you go beyond the Wall and more (minus the White Walkers, of course). Add these 10 spots from Westeros and Essos to your travel agenda ASAP!
The 1 Parenting Lesson I Wish I Had Learned Earlier
Dear Second-Born,
You'll find out one day that parenting doesn't come with a map. I've been desperate for my own tour guide several times, but instead I've learned to trust my gut. Because of this, mistakes are made and lessons are learned, and there's one parenting lesson I wish I would have learned earlier.
I never should have compared you to your big brother.
Parents know not to do this, yet sometimes things happen in our subconscious. When you were born, I considered myself a veteran mother. I had done it all before - the blowouts, the middle-of-the-night feedings, and the witching hours. I knew what babies needed and how to console them . . . or so I thought.
But you were stubborn from the beginning. In those first three months when you were growing inside of me, you sent me running to the toilet daily. Then you were five days late. And since your very first breath, you've let the world know you are a force to be reckoned with. You wouldn't comply. You'd do things at your own pace, usually faster or slower than the norm. For you, the rules were only meant to be broken.
Yes, you did some things quicker than your older brother, like climb up the slide, shake your hips while dancing on our kitchen table, and vehemently tell me no. There were also things you did slower than your brother: sleep through the night, walk, and learn your letters. You've proved that you're much more defiant, too. I've had to learn a few parenting tricks to get you to listen to me. And I admit, when you weren't hitting those milestones as early as your big brother did, I compared you to him at first. My gut told me that you were perfect and that you would do things when you were ready, but I let society's judgment creep in. I'm so sorry.
The other day, I was running around the house trying to get you and your brother ready for school, and you ran to me from the mudroom screaming, "I'm all ready, Mommy! Let's go!" There you were. A puny 3-year-old all dressed up for preschool: coat zipped, hat and gloves on, and boots pulled up successfully on the right feet. It hit me. You were born to be a little wild. You were also born to lead and be great - like your brother, only different. You may not get to where you want to go on the first try, but you will get there, and you'll have a lot of fun on the way. I know that now.
I'm glad I learned this lesson while you're still young. I'm embracing the beautiful and unpredictable paths you take to accomplish both the small and large tasks. I'll never compare you to your brother again, because I know that nobody can compare to you.
I love you always,
Mom
10 Smart Ways Real Moms Save Money
Let's be honest: money matters aren't always easy. Between child care, activities, and everything else under the sun, it adds up. And since parents usually want to do everything for their kids, being a frugal mom can seem like an uphill battle. But all hope isn't lost. Here are 10 easy ways you can save money in order to both maximize what you live on week to week and save ahead for a rainy day. And the best part? You'll be a great example to your children on how to handle finances later in life!
Is It Too Soon to Have Parenting Regrets?
As a parent of two young kids, people always say to me, "Enjoy them! They grow up so fast." And to be honest, I usually want to kick those people in their well-intentioned shins. While the message seems like an innocent enough "stop and smell the roses" thing, I perceive it to be more of a "you're a terrible parent" thing. And if you like to go deep subtext like me: "I'm a better parent than you." But despite my inherent defensiveness, I know that those people are right - childhood does go by fast.
One thing I wasn't expecting in the early and fast years of my kids' childhoods was having regrets. I figured I would have bad days like every parent does, but I didn't see those big, heartbreaking regrets creeping into their first decade on earth. Boy, was I wrong. I have so many parenting regrets, and my kids are only 6 and 8.
I don't want to keep missing the fullness of these childhood experiences because of my eagerness to "just get through it."
I regret not being more present. There were way too many days when I was caught up in being tired and stressed that I didn't soak up those simple moments that are now becoming more rare. Instead of celebrating certain milestones, I breathed a sigh of relief that my kids finally got there. You'd never think you'd miss a saggy diaper . . . until you're dealing with dirty underwear. And when you have a kid who descends into a screaming fit when you try to help with the removal of a loose tooth, you can forget how adorably innocent it is.
It won't be too long before these small problems are replaced by bigger, more complex issues that can't be consoled by a hug from Mom or a visit from the Tooth Fairy. I don't want to keep missing the fullness of these childhood experiences because of my eagerness to "just get through it." I am only six and eight years in, and I already wish I would have paused more.
But there's also a different side to this coin that I'm not afraid to admit: sometimes you want and need time to go faster. I can't think of one mother who misses trying to take care of her kids when she's battling a cold of her own. I can't think of one parent who hasn't been relieved to drop off a kid at day care when the kid in question is acting like a grade-A punk. It's a balancing act that I haven't gotten totally right so far, but it's OK to want both sides. The days are long and the years are short.
What I keep trying to tell myself is that I'm allowed to celebrate the end-of-school break but dread the day they don't want to come home for the weekend from college. I can wish for a time machine when they're having a meltdown but want the hugs that follow to last forever. My regrets so far have taught me there's a difference between survival and blinders. It's being able to see that in the thick of the moment, that's the challenge.
If you have young ones, don't be like me, looking at old photos and wondering where the time went, where my babies went, and wishing for the ability to go back, just for one day. Be there, even when it's pukey, loud, and exhausting. It's hard. Super hard. But it's a fight worth fighting, and I'm ready for the next decade of challenges.
Good News: You Don't Have to Wait Very Long to Hear Your Baby's First Laugh
Laughter is known to be the best medicine for just about everything, and for good reason. Aside from protecting against heart disease, laughter actually works to foster brain connectivity and cultivates relationships with others. So it's no wonder that parents eagerly await the big milestone of watching their little one let out a genuine laugh for the first time.
All children are different and reach milestones at various paces, but a baby typically starts giggling and laughing in response to tickles, silly faces, or even bouncy movements by the time they're 4 months old. Don't worry if your baby doesn't start guffawing away at such an early age, though, as it isn't unusual for some to wait until they're almost a year old before they have a true belly laugh. Plus, sometimes it takes parents a while to figure out how to get their little one to laugh out loud (remember when Ross sang Sir Mix a Lot's "Baby Got Back" to make Emma laugh on Friends?). Just remember: be patient and enjoy the moment when your baby does starts laughing, because before you know it, they'll be rolling their eyes at your bad jokes.
Things I Whisper to My Daughter
My dearest girl,
When I first learned that I was pregnant with you, many people told me how hard it is to raise a child in the current climate. I don't disagree with them. You're not my only child, but you are my only girl, which put a bit of pressure on me to really get it right.
The second I found out about you, I started to whisper things to you - things I knew you wouldn't understand then, things you still might not understand now. I whisper them to you because I want you to know that you can accomplish anything, no matter who tries to stand in your way. I whisper them to you because I know one day, after years of all my whispering, these thoughts will be ingrained in your brain as truth.
"You are strong."
When I was pregnant with you, your daddy and I were a newly married Army couple living in Alaska, and I felt lost amid a sea of strangers. I would marvel as you moved in my belly, and I would whisper, "You are strong." And the day you were born, we could instantly tell you were just that. You would (and still do) set your mind to things and always follow through. We revel in your strength.
"Yes, girl!"
Did you know that this started as a whisper? It happened the first time you sat up, and then again for each milestone after that. Now that you're a little older, I shout "YES, GIRL!" at an embarrassingly loud volume every time you do something at a gymnastics meet. I know it makes you cringe, but I want it to be something you hear in your thoughts as you get older. In your adult life, you will hear "No" far too often. That's just the way it goes. But at home, in our nest, you will hear as much "Yes, girl" encouragement as we can possibly provide.
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four Privet Drive, were proud to say they were perfectly normal, thank you very much."
Harry Potter has played such a huge role in the upbringing of you and your baby brothers. You, my girl, were the first to be treated to the entire series - I read them out loud to you as I rocked you in your glider and you drank a bottle. You would be drowsy but attentive as Hermione bossed those boys around and showed them what brains look like. I'd whisper in your ear that girls can be just as smart, and sometimes much smarter, than boys. I'd tell you, and still tell you, that you're just like Hermione.
"Take a deep breath."
In kindergarten, you started to realize that things are hard. School was hard, making and keeping friends was hard, and gymnastics was hard. There were many days when you arrived home and promptly burst into tears. I would hold you and whisper, "Take a deep breath." I never told you to stop crying, and I still never tell you not to cry, because you can! I feel so much pride when I see you take a deep breath and try something new. I'm also so proud of you for teaching this to your baby brothers. I have seen you calm two fussy babies by whispering sweetly to them to take deep breaths. They are so lucky to have you.
"Be kind, and ignore them."
Something girls with sisters learn early on is that girls can be jealous and mean when they want to be. I could tell you were shocked by other little girls when you arrived in the world of competitive gymnastics. And when you were in first grade, a few older girls told you your eyes were "poop-colored." I had never been so mad, but I told you to ignore them and to keep being kind. Don't let the haters bring you down.
"I love you."
I never knew I could love someone so much until you existed. When you were little and just wanted to be held, I would whisper, "I love you, little girl," over and over again. I tell you "I love you" as many times as I can during the day. I whisper it to you before you go to school, when you come home, when you leave for gymnastics, and when I check on you before I go to sleep. I also whisper it when you're not even near me. I just put it out into the universe and hope it finds its way to your heart.
These things I whisper will probably start to embarrass you in the next couple years, the years when being seen with Mom isn't the coolest thing in the world. But I promise to whisper them until I can't anymore, because even when you don't want to hear them, I still must tell you.
Love Always,
Mom
Demi Dropped 50 Pounds For a Bikini Competition but Wasn't Happy Until She Gained It Back
Losing weight doesn't always involve a straight line. There can be huge bumps and zigzags along the way, and it can take some people years to find a healthy lifestyle that works for them. Demetra Eftimiades (Demi) should know; she's had a series of ups and downs in her own wellness journey. Learn about her struggles to lose - and gain - weight and how she finally found balance.
Demi's journey began in December 2015 and at a weight of 160 pounds. She told POPSUGAR that after a horrible breakup, she felt depressed and lost her appetite. She ended up dropping just over 30 pounds in less than three months. "The breakup took a lot away from me. I was lost and didn't know who I was anymore," Demi told POPSUGAR. "I had worked so hard to please this other person that I lost myself in the process. During those three months I began to find myself again and came back twice as strong."
After losing those first 30 pounds, Demi shared that, "because of a lack of food and excessive cardio," she dropped even more weight. Her lifestyle became very strict and unhealthy, tracking every little calorie she consumed - she became worried about gaining the weight back. She was previously very unhappy with her body image and did everything in her power to prevent that.
Demi shared, "To further worsen the situation [in Summer 2015], I decided to compete in a bodybuilding competition, which was even more strict than the previous lifestyle I had been living. I would diet for six days straight and then have one high-calorie day where I would practically binge to the point where I could not move because my stomach pain had been so bad." That's when Demi dropped to her lowest weight at 109 pounds, after training 18 weeks for her first bikini bodybuilding competition.
Once she finished training for that competition, Demi said she "felt and looked emaciated." She knew this lifestyle was unhealthy, and she was unhappy that she'd lost so much muscle mass. "I didn't like how I felt weak doing daily activities," so by 2017, she began reverse dieting and using weights to build muscle and strength.
"This is when I saw my weight beginning to creep back up on the scale. I won't lie, it was a very hard thing to let go of. My entire life I had worked towards lowering the number on the scale and now all of a sudden I had to be OK with that number increasing." Demi knew that the numbers going up meant she was gaining muscle, which was her goal. During her last bulk, she saw that number go up to 148 pounds. Now, she maintains her weight around 130, and she's proud of her muscle and how much she can lift!
Lifting weights and working with several coaches over the past couple years led Demi to a new, healthier, sustainable lifestyle that involves intuitive eating and moderate exercise. She stopped tracking calories and macros altogether and started eating when she was hungry and until she was satisfied.
Demi said that eating intuitively "has been my savior" in regard to easing her mind about not having to worry about numbers - on the scale, calories, or macros. She's learned that she can still meet her goals and be happy - she doesn't have to live a strict and unhealthy lifestyle.
Here's what a typical day looks like. You'll notice that Demi practices intermittent fasting. She does the 16:8 method, choosing to skip breakfast.
Wake up: coffee, milk, Stevia
12-2 p.m.: first meal with an abundance of chicken, veggies, rice, and fruit
2-4 p.m.: tea or coffee with a protein bar
7-9 p.m.: large dinner with meat, veggies, and carbs
Dessert: small bowl of zero percent fat Greek yogurt with granola, fruit, and Stevia + (if still hungry) Eddy's Slow Churned Ice Cream!
As for workouts now, Demi hits the gym three to four times a week and focuses on strength training. She also throws in some cardio sessions here and there.
Throughout her five-year journey, Demi is happy that she's finally found a healthy balance of exercise and diet that fits her lifestyle. She said, "I have come to love my body throughout every stage in life over the years and have learned not to worry about the number on a scale."
Two things she wants to share that she wishes she'd realized during her journey are "don't do too much too soon" and "learn to appreciate your own body." Demi says that striving to look like someone else or have someone else's body is a lost cause, because you are you! Tell yourself every day that you are beautiful just the way you are.
It's OK to have body goals, but you want to make sure that you're achieving them in a healthy, sustainable way. Find an expert to offer help and support - you don't have to go at this on your own. If your struggle with weight is putting your mental or physical health at risk, please talk to someone.
If you or a loved one is in need of any help, the National Eating Disorders Association has several resources.
If You're Wondering Why Apple Cider Vinegar Makes You Poop, You're Not Alone
People take apple cider vinegar for a number of reasons, and if you've incorporated the vinegar into your daily diet, you've likely noticed some results. Aside from curbed appetite, better digestion is a side effect for many - and yes, that means ACV can help you out in the pooping department. One of our own editors experienced less constipation and bloating after drinking apple cider vinegar for one week, and as it turns out, that's a common reaction.
Apple cider vinegar, just like apples, is high in pectin, a soluble fiber. The pectin can help move things along in the digestive system. Before you decide to throw back shots of ACV to alleviate constipation issues, though, know that it's recommended to dilute apple cider vinegar with water before drinking it.
Plus, moderation is key when it comes to this trendy remedy. There is such a thing as too much apple cider vinegar, so be careful not to go overboard. Physician Dr. Frank Lipman previously told POPSUGAR that the recommended daily amount is one to three tablespoons per day.
10 Mood-Boosting Foods (That Are Healthier Than Your Go-To Pint of Ice Cream)
We've all had those bad days that send us straight to our fridge like we're on an intense mission to stuff our faces with Ben & Jerry's. Don't let a day gone wrong get you down and wreck your health journey in the process! YourTango health expert Lisa Petsinis is here to give us the best tips to stay happy and healthy.
Eat your way to happiness.
If you're having a bad day, ice cream might seem like the answer. It's sweet, cool, and creamy - just heavenly!
In fact, many women claim ice cream got them through a break-up, a pregnancy, or even just PMS.
When I was in university, my friends and I would hold an ice cream party just before exams. We would get pints of Haagen-Daz delivered to residence from the local pizza place (no pizza, just ice cream) and believe me, that satisfied our cravings and temporarily relieved our stress and anxiety. If I could get my new favorite Cows ice cream locally, I might just succumb and become an ice cream addict once again.
While ice cream may sound like a good choice when you're feeling down or stressed, the truth is: If you really want a mood-boost from food, there are smarter ways to get it.
By eating "happy foods" that involve the right nutrients and neurotransmitters - such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine - you actually can eat your way to happiness.
Here are the key nutrients and neurotransmitters found in food that can help lift your mood:
- Serotonin is known as the happy neurotransmitter. When serotonin is low, mild depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and food cravings can result. Antidepressants such as Prozac and Zoloft are specifically aiming to raise serotonin levels. When serotonin is high, you feel calm, relaxed and in control.
- Tryptophan is an amino acid that is the precursor to serotonin (which isn't actually found in foods) and aids in its creation. It is found in protein-rich food, as well as iron, and B vitamins. Healthy carbohydrates mixed with high tryptophan foods give the most significant boost because they release insulin which promotes absorption.
- B vitamins, especially vitamins B6, B9 (folate) and B12, are critical for a good mood. These vitamins are instrumental in energy production, mood regulation, and building melatonin (the sleep hormone) and serotonin.
- Probiotics have been increasingly linked to mental health. Researchers believe that 90 percent of your serotonin is produced in your digestive tract.
- Omega-3 fatty acids support nerve function and mood regulation.
- Iron is vital for stabilizing mood, also. It plays an essential role in transporting energy and synthesizing hormones.
- Zinc is a micronutrient involved in the prevention of depression, as well as an immune booster. Hundreds of enzymes use zinc do their thing.
- Selenium is important for optimal thyroid function. And this gland is the master of metabolism and has a substantial effect on mental and emotional health; some say anxiety and depression start in the neck!
- Magnesium, too, plays a vital role in biochemical reactions all over your body. Stress causes you to waste (literally) your magnesium and so to keep it an optimal level is critical, especially when you're stressed.
- Calcium, protein, selenium, and vitamin D are all key nutrients when you want to get happy, too!
Here are some healthy, mood-lifting foods you can turn to instead of ice cream:
1. Nuts
Nuts are nutrient-dense, often containing high amounts of magnesium, selenium, and folate. Some nuts contain the amino acid tyrosine, which contributes to the creation of the neurotransmitter dopamine that activates your pleasure system. Bring on life's challenges!
Eat just a few brazil nuts a day, and you'll meet your requirements. Alternatively, make up a bag of trail mix of nuts, cherries and dark chocolate with even more good stuff and nibble your way to glee.
2. Bananas
Another quick way to boost your mood is to grab a banana. In addition to its yellow cheeriness, a banana is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, B6 and vitamin C.
Bananas are full of tryptophan, too. If you're having trouble sleeping, try making banana tea and ease your way into a slumber.
3. Oatmeal
Oatmeal tops the list for power breakfasts because it contains complex carbohydrates that increase the absorption of serotonin, plus iron, B6, magnesium, and chromium.
To start your day off right, trying to have a bowl topped with banana slices and nuts for added benefit. This meal will stabilize your sugar levels and raise dopamine. You'll be full longer, and your mood will be on an even keel. Oatmeal is especially helpful if you're prone to mood swings (hint: eat some after you've indulged in a pint of ice cream to recover).
4. Fish
Fatty fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins D, B6, and B12. The omegas in particular release dopamine that some say similar to having sex. If you want to feel good tonight, try cooking a salmon steak or be adventurous and try some Portuguese mackerel.
5. Lamb
While the sound of a juicy steak might make your mouth water, you'll get even more of a mood lift from a leg of lamb. The source of iron is ideal, more easily absorbed by the body than other red meat. Grass-fed lamb is super rich in zinc, B6, B12, and magnesium, too.
It also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which counteracts the effects of the stress hormone cortisol. If you're not yet a lamb connoisseur, here are 47 lamb recipes to try now.
6. Greek Yogurt
Mimic the taste and sensation of eating ice cream by enjoying a cup of Greek yogurt. Available in many flavors, this wonder food contains calcium, protein, CLA, and of course, the star, probiotics. Make it a daily treat, and you'll notice a difference in your gut and your mood.
Fermented foods such as kimchi and kefir are natural probiotics, too. Add a spoonful of sauerkraut to your meals and see how you feel!
7. Spinach
This leafy green is high in zinc, magnesium, folate and other B vitamins, which makes it your ideal go-to in the fridge. Saute it, add it to an omelet or soup, or give it the starring role in a salad. Toss in some mushrooms to give yourself a vitamin D boost at the same time.
8. Fresh Cherries
Life is a bowl of cherries! And you will feel that way after you devour a dish of these delicious treats. Containing a variety of vitamins and minerals, cherries are also said to improve headaches and boost your libido.
Red tart cherries are well known for their melatonin content. Have a few or sip some pure juice an hour before bed and you'll be whisked off to dreamland. That is one definite way to wake up happy.
9. Espresso
If your head is spinning over whether coffee is good for you, you're not alone. Anything in excess is probably bad for you. That said, an occasional or even daily dose of espresso might just do the trick.
A Harvard study found that drinking coffee was related to 50 percent fewer suicides. The proposed reason is that coffee aids in the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Coffee is packed with antioxidants that prevent cell damage and essential nutrients such as B2, B3, B5, manganese, and potassium. Some say the smell of coffee alone can reduce your stress!
Too much caffeine might make you jumpy, though - not the effect you are going for when you want to ease your anxiety. And take heed of this warning: drinking coffee on an empty stomach can spike your cortisol and keep you spinning throughout the day.
To counter all of that, what you need is a smaller dose of caffeine. Despite popular belief, a shot of espresso has less caffeine than a cup of brewed coffee
If you're new to espresso (and I don't mean the Starbucks variety), learn how to drink espresso like a true Italian. Imagine yourself in a bar in Venice, drink it back, and you'll be sure to smile.
10. Dark Chocolate
Be prepared: always keep a dark chocolate bar on hand. Though you might want to indulge in the entire bar, only one or two squares will do. Eat the square mindfully, savoring each bite. It will taste so fantastic that you won't even realize what you're eating contains antioxidants, fiber, magnesium, copper, iron, selenium, and zinc.
For maximum happiness, go for organic fair-trade chocolate. And why not combine number 8 and 10 and dip your cherries into melted chocolate? Divine!
While a pint of cookie dough ice cream may be very tempting when you're down in the dumps, trying these mood-enhancing foods will be better for you in the long run. Lift your spirits and build healthy habits at the same time.
In addition to infusing more happy foods into your diet, Lisa Petsinis can also work with you to build your resilience and be your best self. Lisa is a certified coach. Contact her for a free breakthrough call and jump-start the changes you want to make in your life today.
Don't forget to check out other amazing stories from YourTango:
Calling All Curvy Girls: These Are the 8 Best Stores For Workout Leggings
Since athleisure hit the fashion world, comfortable styles, including bombers, sweatshirts, and leggings, have been popping up in closets everywhere. Thanks to their versatility both in and out of the gym, we think the leggings trend is here to stay - but with so many options out there, it can be challenging to find ones that are stylish and fit well.
We've rounded up our top eight picks for workout leggings specifically designed for a gal with curves. They check off all the boxes, including style, functionality, and affordability. Happy shopping!
These Are the 15 Superfoods Your Kitchen Needs in 2018
In today's age of feeling good and eating better, it has become a common occurrence to find superfoods like acai, chia, cacao, and spirulina in our local grocery stores. Wellness cafes are abundant, and menus have become increasingly aware of the next great smoothie, herbal tea, and clean alternative. Each year comes with its own health-food trends, and 2018 is no different. There are new superfoods that we should all be keeping on our radar. From greens and gut-healthy go-tos to sweet options and cooking oils for every chef, foodie, or healthy eater, these are some superfoods that deserve to be household names.
Even Ryan Reynolds's Good Looks Can't Distract You From Blake Lively's Sexy Shoes
Blake Lively doesn't have a stylist, so when she stepped out for the NYC premiere of Final Portrait, we knew she put together the outfit herself. For a night out with Ryan Reynolds, Blake wore a plaid Monse dress, an Oscar de la Renta double face camel coat, and strappy Christian Louboutin sandals. The actress was beaming in her ensemble, and all the prints in her outfits meshed together perfectly.
Ryan and Blake are arguably one of Hollywood's cutest couples (their children are even more adorable), but as the two walked the red carpet, we weren't really looking at the duo. Instead, we zoomed in on Blake's stilettos, which featured ball embellishments. The shoe choice was the most eye-catching piece of her outfit! We managed to track down Blake's exact pair of heels, should you want them too. Read on for a look at her full outfit, then get ready to shop.
Amal Clooney Bundled Up in a Low-Key Ensemble at March For Our Lives
On Saturday, March 24, Amal and George Clooney attended the March For Our Lives rally in Washington DC. The two blended in the crowd by wearing low-key ensembles as they joined hundreds of thousands of other Americans to demand gun control. While George bundled up in a brown wool coat and scarf, Amal wore a red plaid jacket. She stayed extra warm and cozy in a knitted beanie. It's been a while since we've seen her in the public eye, but it's no surprise Amal popped up at the march to offer her support. (She and George donated $500,000 to the cause back in February.) Read on to see photos of the two, and if you're feeling inspired, shop similar jackets to Amal's.
The Most Powerful March For Our Lives Instagrams From the Fashion World
Your Instagram was likely flooded with photos from the March For Our Lives, which happened across several major cities. Stars such as Amal and George Clooney turned up to show their support, and young children, along with their parents, took part in the march by carrying some very powerful signs. With so many Americans taking a stand to demand stricter gun-control laws, the fashion world has spoken up too. Many designers and models participated in the NYC march and shared some of their most powerful photos on social media. Scroll on to see how the fashion world supported the cause.
11 Ways 1 Shopping Editor Is Transforming Her Wardrobe This Spring
It's not hard to convince me to buy new clothes. I spend my days browsing the latest deals online and curating fashion roundups, so by the time my paycheck comes in, I already know exactly what I'm buying. This Spring, I'm ready to ditch those heavy leather jackets and tight denim jeans for colorful accessories and comfortable dresses. If you feel the same, I rounded up a list of chic picks that will get you inspired to treat yourself this season. From marble hoop earrings to an embroidered denim jacket and the latest Nike air max sneakers, prepare to want it all.
Guys, Is Meghan Markle Rewearing Her Engagement Sweater?
It's pretty hard to forget Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's adorable engagement photos. It's even more difficult to forget the stunning outfits Meghan wore during the shoot. Not only did Meghan slip into a $75,000 Ralph & Russo Couture gown but she also showed off her laid-back side in a cream sweater by Victoria Beckham.
While Meghan isn't afraid of twinning with her soon-to-be sister-in-law, it looks like she also picked up Kate's tendency to rewear outfits. For a surprise trip to Belfast, Meghan wore a cream sweater by Victoria Beckham that looked exactly like the one she wore during her engagement photos. She styled it with a green Greta Constantine skirt, Jimmy Choo heels, and a brown tote by Charlotte Elizabeth. Read on for a closer look, then shop similar versions of her sweater ahead.
21 Breathtaking Wedding Gowns Worn by Real-Life Princesses
There's a reason so many brides talk about their "princess moment" - there is just something so elegant about a royal wedding. While Kate Middleton and Princess Diana have forever captured our hearts, there are many other princesses - and gowns - that are nothing short of grand.
From the lust-worthy designers like Elie Saab and Armani to 25-foot lace trains, these wedding dresses are beautiful enough to make your heart stop. And while your Prince Charming may not come with an actual title, there's nothing wrong with dreaming, right? So read on and prepare to get swept away by what may be the most beautiful wedding gowns you will ever see.
27 Easter-Perfect Pieces That You Can Wear All Spring Long
Whatever your Easter Sunday plans - Linner at your SO's? A casual brunch with the fam? - you'll need to stay stylish. But with the promise of good food, plenty of time to relax, and OK, maybe a speedy egg hunt, you'll want to be comfortable. Of course, when you pull out feel-good closet staples in light hues, you'll be impeccably dressed for Spring.
If a frilly pink dress isn't your game, that's fair. We've got tie-dye trousers, standout jumpsuits, and even a sequin sneakers that just might speak to you. Read on for an entire wardrobe that looks just right for the holiday but will get you so much further.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
Eva Mendes on How Culture, Motherhood, and Ryan Gosling Shaped Her New York & Co. Collection
Eva Mendes just released her fifth collection with New York & Company, and like most things, it keeps getting better and better with time. The actress and designer gave us a look at her new Everyday Chic lineup, and fair warning, you should plan a shopping trip ASAP, because everything is so damn chic.
Like most of Eva's previous pieces, her newest items are perfect for all types of women. There are a variety of pieces that you can wear to the office (including dresses with pockets!) and a bevy of items that can easily transition to a happy hour or date night look. Not to mention, the collection features tons of bold colors and prints, so you can mix patterns and solids to create attention-grabbing looks.
We spoke to Eva about the new line, and during our chat she revealed that motherhood and Ryan Gosling, aka her "man," totally influenced the new pieces. Read on to find out how!
Ditch Your Jeans - These 11 Stylish Leggings Are All Less Than $22 on Amazon
If you're all about rocking leggings outside the gym, we get it. These versatile pants are so comfortable, they're hard to want to take off. Not only do they keep you warm during chilly months, but you can also wear them with just about anything. You don't have to spend a fortune on a new pair, either; we shopped on Amazon and found a handful of stylish finds - and they're all under $22 so you can get more than two (or five!). Shop our favorite finds ahead.
Exactly What the Dress Code For Harry And Meghan's Wedding Means
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have gone full steam ahead with their wedding plans. They've picked a wedding cake maker and they've sent out their wedding invitations. Our invitation must be lost in the post, but if you're on the list, or you're one of the 2,640 people Kensington Palace is inviting into the grounds to watch the wedding, you might be a little bit confused about the strict dress code. Harry and Meghan's invite states clearly "Dress: uniform, morning coat or lounge suit / day dress with hat." But what exactly do all of these options mean? Let us break it down for you.
Holy Moly - We're So in Love With Gwyneth Paltrow's Floral Net Booties
Someone needs to give Gwyneth Paltrow a round of applause for her outfit. Gwyneth attended the 2018 Sun Valley Film Festival Vision Award dinner in Sun Valley, ID. For the event, the recently engaged actress showed up wearing a black-and-white tweed shirt that featured shoulder pads. (If you haven't seen her stunning engagement ring, you're truly missing out.)
Gwyneth styled the classic shirt with black trousers and the most beautiful floral boots by Roger Vivier. We were impressed by Gwyneth braving the frigid temperatures - and the snow! - to wear these netted boots. Read on to get a closer look at her gorgeous boots and buy the exact style, as well as more affordable options, ahead.
Beyoncé Just Twinned With Blue Ivy in Showstopping Gold Gowns
Beyoncé saved her sexiest dress for the second annual Wearable Art Gala. The Lemonade singer showed up for the gala, which was organized by Bey's mom, Tina Knowles, wearing a gold dress that fit perfectly with the evening's theme of WACO to Wakanda. (That's the name of the organization behind the gala plus the fictional world in which Black Panther takes place.)
According to WWD, Beyoncé chose a custom gown by Indian design house Falguni Shane Peacock that took more than 10 days to create. "We wanted to create an art statement, taking inspiration from the Nubian warrior queen [Amanishakheto]. We felt it was the perfect inspiration when designing for such a strong woman like Beyoncé," designers Falguni and Shane Peacock said. Her stunning dress featured metallic cutouts and a long gold train.
Bey's daughter, Blue Ivy, also made an appearance and totally upstaged her mother wearing a matching gold dress and wig. During the evening, Beyoncé switched into a second gold dress while taking the stage to receive the 2018 WACO Theater Humanitarian Award. Read on to get a glimpse of Bey's amazing dresses.
I'm Indian - Why Don't I Ever See Anyone Who Looks Like Me in Fashion?
Fashion has always been a part of my DNA. As a child, I would spend hours dressing up in my mother's clothes, ripping out pages of magazines for things that inspired me, and drawing outfits from my favorite movies. Flash forward to today, fashion is still a huge part of my life, and I've even managed to make a career out of it. But whether I look at bloggers on Instagram or billboards on the street, one important question has always stood out to me: I'm Indian; why don't I ever see anyone who looks like me in fashion?
Growing up, I moved over 12 times, hopping around from cities like Mumbai, New York, and Dubai. Living in these cultural meccas, I often found myself wondering why the media didn't represent the stylish Indian people I saw walking on the streets every day. When I would see an Indian person being represented on TV, I'd quickly realize that they were based on stereotypes rather than the kinds of real people I knew. I'm looking at you, Raj from The Big Bang Theory and Apu Nahasapeemapetilon from The Simpsons. (C'mon, Apu's last name is something right out of a racist joke book, don't you think?) Even as I entered my first Fashion Week, it was jarring how I could barely count the number of Indian models I saw on one hand.
Where Are We Now?
When Priyanka Chopra broke onto the scene with ABC's hit show Quantico in 2015, everyone couldn't stop buzzing about how amazing her style was. I, for one, couldn't help cheering from the sidelines, "FINALLY!" But the thing is, Priyanka's amazing style was something I already knew about and, over the years, I had kind of just given up hope that people outside of my community would take notice. It was powerful to see Priyanka make it big because it felt like Indian people were finally a part of the equation and getting some much-needed recognition. I was lucky enough to meet the actress during an event and we instantly bonded over the fact that we both love fashion and we are both Mumbaikars (which is a playful way of saying we both lived in Mumbai). I told Priyanka that it made me proud to see an Indian person making it big in Hollywood and she said that it made her happy because she too was proud to be Indian.
While it's great that Priyanka is getting the recognition she deserves, it's been three years since she broke onto the scene, and she is just one person from a country with a population over 1.3 billion. There are so many other fashionable Indian women out there like Sonam Kapoor, who has over 11 million followers on Instagram. (For scale, that's about the amount of people who live in Belgium or, to make it relatable to fashionistas, the same number of people who follow street style star Chiara Ferragni.) There's also Aishwarya Rai, who has received many accolades for her Cinderella-esque gown at Cannes Film Festival, and Bollywood actress Deepika Pudukone, just to name a few. (If you need any proof of how stylish these women are, just scroll through their Instagrams and you'll see what I'm talking about.) We should be giving more women like them a platform, because everyone's obsession with Priyanka has proved that the world is ready for it.
While it's great that Priyanka is getting the recognition she deserves, it's been three years since she broke onto the scene, and she is just one person from a country with a population over 1.3 billion.
One big missed opportunity was Vogue India's 10-year anniversary issue. Instead of choosing an Indian model or one of the many stylish Bollywood actresses, the magazine decided to "outsource" their talent (yes, I went there) by choosing American supermodel Kendall Jenner to be the cover girl. From a business perspective, I understand that it's a huge deal to land a covetable model like Kendall, but this could've been a huge moment for Indians to showcase some of the amazing, diverse talent we have in our country. It would've been inspiring to see someone Indian on the cover, showing the world that we're proud of our heritage.
Another thing that got everyone buzzing was a Business of Fashion article written by an Indian editor. I opened up Instagram one morning to see that a ton of my friends had posted a specific quote from the article that made them feel extremely marginalized, and it was easy to see why. "They [Indians] may not be the tallest or the conventionally prettiest of models," read the quote. I had many conversations that morning with others who were completely stunned by the fact that a fellow Indian could say something like that. If we perceive ourselves in this light, what stops others from doing the same? Being someone who's been called both "too Indian" and "too Americanized" my entire life, the article made me furious because that statement is so far from the truth. While the editor did apologize stating she meant "Indian models weren't perceived as 'the prettiest' by the Western-centric standards that dominate the fashion market," it still made me sad to think that these so-called beauty standards are so deeply ingrained in our society. Shouldn't every ethnicity be celebrated and considered beautiful? We shouldn't be ripping each other down; we should be embracing each and every individual for who they are, and all of the unique traits they bring to the table.
Beauty companies like Rihanna's Fenty Beauty and Huda Kattan's beauty line are breaking the mold by making it a point to include a diverse range of models in their campaigns and, more importantly, releasing multiple shades of their products. Their lines were instant successes, and people of all different ethnicities couldn't stop expressing their excitement over feeling included for once. The fashion industry should take a cue from these companies and the public's overwhelming cry for more diversity. Honestly it baffles me why designers don't even see this as an opportunity to make more sales. They're all missing out on a huge segment of the population, one that could potentially mean millions of dollars in revenue. What company wouldn't want that?
Where Do We Go From Here?
One Indian woman in the fashion industry that I admire greatly is Roopal Patel, who is the SVP fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue. Looking at her career, it makes me proud to see another Indian woman succeeding in the industry, particularly one who is regarded so highly by her peers and designers. I admire Roopal not only because she has a lot of knowledge about the fashion industry, but also because she's managed to forge her own path as one of the only Indian woman directors of a multimillion-dollar retail company. Having even one person with a high-profile fashion job like Roopal's can help inspire a movement in the industry. I know she has already inspired me in my own career.
Even though I am just one person, I've made it my mission to do everything I can to make the situation better. Working at a place like POPSUGAR, I feel like I can voice these issues and unearth Indian brands and designers that mean something to my culture. I've been making a conscious effort to include people of all different backgrounds in my stories in the hopes of making everyone feel more included when they read an article of mine. During my first week at POPSUGAR, I was showing my team pictures from my sister's wedding and everyone was asking questions about what each outfit meant and what exactly one wears to an Indian wedding. I decided to write a couple of posts about it and, just like that, I was already writing about topics that mattered to me.
It's inspiring to see how Ashley Graham and Tess Holliday have managed to start an entire movement about the lack of curve models in the industry. Maybe we can learn from these empowering women and try to get the conversation started in the same way.
This past year has sort of been an awakening for women. There seems to be a growing platform for women of all races to speak out when they feel like they're being marginalized and underappreciated in today's society. While these strides are long overdue, we definitely still have a ways to go. Much like the body-positivity movement, it's time to call for the fashion industry to be more diverse so every young woman can feel like they are being represented in some way. It's inspiring to see how Ashley Graham and Tess Holliday have managed to start an entire movement about the lack of curve models in the industry. Maybe we can learn from these empowering women and try to get the conversation started in the same way. Whether it's by using social media like the #effyourbeautystandards hashtag and calling for Indian bloggers to band together, or simply by sharing this story to spark conversations, we can at least attempt to make a difference.
In the future, I hope to look at the runways of my favorite designers and see Indian models being included, but I wouldn't want it to end there. I would love for all ethnicities to be represented. Call it wishful thinking, but I think it can be accomplished in time. It's the best feeling in the world to see designers like Naeem Khan and Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia pave the way for other Indian designers out there. It gives me hope. After all, fashion is all about dreams. It takes a dream to start a company, it takes a dream to create a collection, and it takes a dream to make even the slightest difference in the world. Maybe one day, this simple dream will become a reality and we can finally look up at a billboard or open up a magazine, and see someone who we relate to looking back at us.
Small Bust? Shop 20 Figure-Flattering Suits to Enhance What You've Got
Swimsuit shopping is a unique battle for anyone, especially if you're self-conscious about being smaller up top. Arm yourself with tricks and you'll be able to stroll seaside with confidence.
- Flaunt what you have, and fake what you don't. If you're looking to create more cleavage, opt for an underwire bra top (or padding). A structured top will shape what you have, while padded cups can actively fake more if that's the look you're after.
- Distract, distract, distract. Ruffles, bold prints, and splashes of color are all far busier than a simple, solid suit and can claim an onlooker's attention.
- Embrace what you can wear. Tiny tops and unique shapes are cute but often spell disaster for women with larger chests. Trendy styles are easy to conquer when support isn't mandatory, so go ahead and play around with fun cuts.
Now that you're up to speed, just read on to shop the cutest suits for small-busted beach babes.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak and Leah Melby
PSA: Kate Middleton's Iconic Engagement Dress Is Now Available in 7 New Colors For Under $200
When she announced her engagement to Prince William, Kate Middleton stepped out in the now iconic Issa Phylis wrap dress. Paired with suede pumps and her gorgeous engagement ring, the lovely knee-length stunner looked incredibly elegant on Kate - and less than 24 hours later, the dress was gone.
Back in 2015, the model once again became available in Harvey Nichols, only to be sold out in seconds. And a year later, it reappeared on a few shelves when Issa's former creative director Daniella Helayel collaborated with Monsoon.
Now, the brand has partnered with House of Fraser and re-created the dress in seven different colors and prints, aptly naming it "the Kate Tie Wrap dress." So, if you were still lusting after Kate's engagement outfit, it might be the time to take the plunge. Read on to revisit the piece we're talking about, then shop the new design for yourself, ASAP.
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