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 28 mars 2018
There's a Pretty Horrific True Story Behind Ridley Scott's Chilling New Show, The Terror
The premise for Ridley Scott's new show on AMC, The Terror, is the stuff of frigid nightmares: two technologically advanced Royal Navy ships sail from England to the Arctic in an attempt to finally discover a navigable passage through the Northwest Passage in the 1800s but end up stuck in the North Atlantic, turning their journey into an icy, survivalist hell. Oh, and lest you think it's just a colder version of Master and Commander, there's also a bloodthirsty monster roaming around. See what we mean about nightmares?
While the supernatural twist in The Terror is a haunting one, what's even more, well, terrifying is that the show - which is adapted from Dan Simmons's acclaimed historical novel of the same name - is actually based on a true story. Apparently the truth is not only stranger than fiction, but also far more horrific.
Although the true story of the two ill-fated ships, the H.M.S. Erebus and H.M.S. Terror (most ominous ship names of all time? Jeeze!), lacks the appearance of a vengeful ice monster, they indeed got stuck in the North Atlantic ice in 1845 while on a similar mission to explore the Northwest Passage. Not only that, but the major players are also the same: Captain John Franklin and Francis Crozier, who are portrayed in The Terror by Ciarán Hinds and Jared Harris, were the real leaders of the doomed 19th century sea voyage.
There were 129 members of the expedition, all of whom disappeared virtually without a trace. The only clue as to their whereabouts other than a few skeletons was the wreckage of the two ships, which wasn't actually uncovered until more than 150 years later. Rumors about what could've happened to the men swirled for decades, which is what no doubt inspired Simmons's occult version of the strange tale.
So, what really happened to the men of the H.M.S. Erebus and H.M.S. Terror?
In May of 1845, Franklin and Crozier navigated the two ships from the UK to the Arctic's Northwest Passage along with their officers and crew. Franklin, though respected, was nearing 60 years old and wasn't the Navy's first choice; instead it wanted famed explorer William Parry or Naval officer James Clark Ross, both of whom refused to go. Eventually Franklin was given the post, and Crozier, an officer from Ireland who'd successfully journeyed to Antarctica with Ross, was dubbed his second in command. They were last seen by European whalers in Baffin Bay - an area between Greenland and Canada - awaiting good conditions to enter the Arctic labyrinth, as The Terror notes in its chilling title card. Then they vanished, despite Franklin and Crozier's experience.
Given their high-profile voyage, multiple search parties were sent out when no word had been received from the men by 1847. Over the next 12 years, more expeditions traveled in the Erebus and Terror's footsteps in hopes of finding any scrap of information, with the British government offering significant reward money for anyone who could find them. In 1852, Admiral Edward Belcher's search party on the H.M.S Resolute got stuck in the ice, but it ended up being fortuitous - they found another search party led by Robert McClure, who left on a mission years earlier and was presumed dead. In his attempts to escape the ice and find rescue, McClure accidentally ended up discovering and crossing the Northwest Passage, and when they all made it back to England, he was given a knighthood for his groundbreaking achievement.
Finally, an 1859 search party led by the Irish explorer Francis McClintock and sent by Franklin's second wife, Lady Jane Franklin, discovered a few skeletons of crew members, as well as written accounts of what happened during the expedition up to 1848. You don't need to read it for yourself to deduce that surviving freezing temperatures with a dwindling food supply and no chance of rescue likely made for a harrowing few years.
According to the diary, the ships got stuck in the ice in September 1846, and a little over a year and a half later, Sir Franklin and 23 other men had died. The men who were still alive decided that their best bet was to travel south on foot. The freezing journey proved too difficult, and the remaining men died after resorting to cannibalism. The latter gruesome claim was later supported when Canadian archaeologists stumbled upon the wreck of the Erebus in 2014 while searching for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 in the Queen Maud Gulf and within it found human remains with knife marks on the bones.
As for the Terror, the wreckage was found in 2016, marking 168 years after it set out on its voyage to the Arctic. It was "found in pristine condition at the bottom of an Arctic bay" by a team from the charitable Arctic Research Foundation, according to The Guardian. All three masts were broken but still standing, and almost all the hatches had everything still stowed.
It's an eerie conclusion to the Arctic mystery that had been plaguing archaeologists and historians alike for years. There's still no word on whether or not the remains of a giant, angry Inuit spirit monster were found in the wreckage of either ship, but fortunately that's why we have The Terror. The 10-episode series, which premiered on March 26, promises plenty of gory thrills and chills in your future. You better buckle - and bundle - up.
This Powerful Dance Cover of "This Is Me" Makes You Feel the Music in Your Bones
If you weren't already moved to tears by "This Is Me" when watching The Greatest Showman, then this emotional dance routine by So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Travis Wall will do the trick. Performing to a cover of the emotional anthem by Shoshana Bean, Travis begins the routine with his skin covered in written slurs and insults. Over the course of Shoshana singing to him in the powerful video, though, Travis slowly transforms the hurtful words on his skin to read the opposite - phrases like "worthy," "brave," and "survivor" adorn his face and chest by the conclusion.
It's hard to watch the routine without feeling chills down your spine, because it's clearly an extremely personal performance for both Travis and Shoshana. Give the full video a watch, and you'll want to replay it over and over again. Then, revisit every song you fell in love with over the course of The Greatest Showman to experience all of the emotions again.
15 Wines From Whole Foods That Will Knock Your Socks Off
Picture this: you're trying to get everything ready for a fabulous party, but you're crunched for time (OK, you don't have to picture this - we have all been here). You stop at Whole Foods to get some party staples and are thinking about all the other stops you have to make and things you have to do when you get home . . . like throw your dirty clothes in a closet and do something with all the dishes that have piled up in the sink.
You're thinking you may have to phone a friend to handle the adult beverages, but you're in luck. At Whole Foods, the wine selection is quite varied, and the grocer actually has a Master Sommelier employed as its global beverage buyer. So, go ahead: pick up a sampling of wines, and impress your gathered friends with the answer when they say, "This wine is delicious. Where did you get it?"
15 Trader Joe's Grocery Staples For Busy People
We get it - it's hard to eat real food when you're busy. That's why we asked our POPSUGAR editors, both former and current, to share their favorite staples from Trader Joe's so you can keep your fridge stocked with all the best foods possible. From microwaveable brown rice to creamy tomato soup, this list will inspire you to stock up on your next TJ's grocery run.
25 Creative Dinner Ideas That Will Inspire You to Cook Tonight
"What's for dinner tonight?" It's a question we all face every day. If you're really in need of some fresh recipe ideas, look no further than these 25 of our most popular. Some are fast and easy (under 30 minutes). Others are easy but will take you an hour or more. And lastly, there are a few "projects;" in other words, they require advanced cooking skills and will take around two hours or more. Allow the captions to guide you to making the right dinner choice tonight. Happy cooking!
Disneyland Just Created a Minnie-Shaped Macaron Unlike Any It's Ever Sold Before
When I smell desserts walking down Disneyland's Main Street USA, my first thought isn't typically "French macarons." My mind goes to heaping ice cream sundaes, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies, or caramel apples from the candy shop - all nostalgic things that I remember from childhood visits to the park. But a new generation of kids is going to have a much more diverse spread of Disney desserts that are worth drooling over, especially now that the park's bakers have come up with some of the most Instagrammable confections we've ever seen.
The latest French macaron available at the park, a rose gold variety that is as magical and beautiful as Sleeping Beauty's castle, is enough to change our minds about go-to Disney desserts. Shaped like Minnie Mouse and complete with an edible bow, the macaron is available at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe and features lemon and raspberry elements with a flavor that some park-goers have likened to Fruity Pebbles cereal. Mmm! Count us in.
Check out these stunning photos of the macarons and plan to pick one up on your next Disneyland visit!
What It's Really Like to Quit Your Job, Drop Everything, and Move to Hawaii
It's not hard to sit back and fantasize about leaving for a tropical escape when the weather gets moody and work deadlines are overwhelming. But actually making the move? Well, it's a heck of a lot more difficult.
Somewhere along the way, this fantasy became my necessity. I needed a shift and a change in pace after a long, tough year of health issues. So after some soul-searching, I bought myself a one-way ticket, quit my job, and moved out of my apartment. I said goodbye, San Francisco - and ALOHA, Hawaii!
The first few days were a vacation with my sister and my partner on the island with me - we joined my sister's friends for nights out to dive bars and house parties, rang in the new year at a Gatsby-themed soiree, soaked up plenty of sun on the beach, and drank too many mai tais. We spent the night at a trendy hotel in Waikiki and spent too much money on expensive appetizers. I got my honorary first sunburn.
Vacation life, ya know?
Having my dear friends visit was such a blessing!
I was quick to discover island living is not always sunshine and coconuts. Once my friends left, I was alone back at the house with myself, my thoughts, and one very fuzzy golden retriever. I realized that with the bustle of Christmas festivities and hours spent packing my life into boxes for storage, I hadn't really been alone alone in a while. When the outdoor voices quieted, the weight of the past two months' worth of big moments and big decisions let themselves be felt in their entirety.
San Francisco was my home for two years. I had made best friends that became family; I loved my job and the people I worked with; I was dating someone I loved; I had an adorable bedroom with old hardwood floors and a bay window. But even though the outside looked so picturesque, on the inside, I was slowly recovering from my mental illness - a wrestle with chronic depression and generalized anxiety - and the hustle of city living wasn't helping.
I had turned to the island of Oahu for an escape, a hope for a fresh start somewhere among the turquoise waters and sugary sand.
The truth is, no matter where you are in the world, your feelings still follow. Your story still has its past. Insecurities still exist. The questions and the fears and the hurt are still there. I couldn't 100 percent expect my struggles, my heartache, and missing my dear friends, old coworkers, and yes, even the city disappear in a bubble of beach happiness. I couldn't find healing instantaneously.
During my first few weeks on the island, I quickly learned that while moving can never be completely running away, I don't think it should be. Hawaii, while a gorgeous spot to lose oneself in a beach vacation, became my sacred, quiet place for processing and restoration. I had to remind myself this wasn't vacation - this was real life, my life, and I chose it. It was a dream 10 years in the making, and it was here.
It took a few 10-hour nights of sleep, unpacked suitcases, and pictures hung on walls for a comfortable reality to set in. I wasn't alone - I was a phone call away from those I love, a few steps from a welcoming roommate, an hour's drive from the North Shore and another dear friend on it.
But most of all, I was here - with me, myself, and I.
So far, this new chapter has been all about taking a long, sandy stroll back to myself, and I'm OK with it. Let the adventure continue.
33 Designer-Worthy DIYs For a Polished Home
There are few things that are as satisfying as pulling off a successful DIY project, especially when a guest asks where you purchased it. We've rounded up 50+ of our favorite tutorials that show you how to organize, entertain, and decorate with style, without spending a fortune. So, roll up your sleeves and get cracking! You can do it.
Spot the Difference - Is It a Leopard, Jaguar, or Cheetah?
Source: Flickr user macjewell
A leopard by any other name would still look as sweet . . . but it wouldn't technically be a leopard. You see, even though some people call out these big cat species interchangeably, there is actually quite a difference among their spots. Take a look below at photos of each, and then try to ace our big cats quiz!
- Cheetah: (Scientific name: Acinonyx jubatus) No rosettes here, the Cheetahs have solid, evenly distributed spots.
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Source: Flickr user tambako - Leopard: (Scientific name: Panthera pardus) These cats have a pattern that looks flower like - called rosettes - in large numbers with a slightly different color inside.
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Source: Flickr user macjewell - Jaguar: (Scientific name: Panthera onca) Jaguars' markings also include rosetted dots but they sometimes have spots in the center as well as a darker, thicker outline. Typically, there are larger rosettes in smaller numbers on this species.
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Source: Flickr user tambako
42 Bite-Size Easter Appetizers
Hosting people for Easter this year? You're going to need some good food, and these bite-size appetizers are perfect for springtime entertaining. With 42 recipes including mini smoked salmon toast, spicy deviled eggs, and individual hummus and crudités cups, you're sure to find a few that speak to you.
The Truth Behind Costco’s $5 Rotisserie Chicken
Image Source: Flickr user terren in Virginia
We can always count on Dr. Oz to expose the truth about our favorite foods. He recently investigated the hidden ingredients in rotisserie chicken, and now we finally know why it's so addictive. He teamed up with award-winning writer Mark Schatzker to figure out why Americans can't get enough of the stuff, especially Costco's $5 rotisserie chicken.
The first shocking piece of information is that rotisserie chicken is often processed, in other words, "pre-seasoned in factories," and then shipped to supermarkets, where "an employee can put it on the skewer and cook it." You may already know part of what makes store-bought rotisserie chickens so tasty is that they're on the salty side, but the skin is also flavored with MSG and sugar, among other natural flavors. Similar to potato chips, this combination helps explain why we can never have too much rotisserie chicken. Despite the seemingly scariness of it all, Dr. Oz says it may be "one of the healthiest processed foods out there." And in similar Dr. Oz. fashion, he suggests taking off the skin to keep it healthier. But if that sounds like insanity, add other sides to your plate to avoid overeating.
Image Source: The Dr. Oz. ShowWatch the full video: Dr. Oz on rotisserie chicken
20 Spring Recipes For Those Who Favor Heartier Meals
The days are longer, the temperatures are milder, and the crocuses are starting to poke their fragile little heads out of the soil. It must be Spring! Soon everyone's farmers markets will be stocked with fresh Spring produce, from asparagus and leeks to peas and beets. But just because Spring veggies typically inspire lighter fare doesn't mean that you have to give up your comfort foods. Here are 20 recipes featuring Spring produce that are just as meaty, carby, and hearty as your favorite Winter meals.
Spring Clean Your Cooking Routine With These 15 Chicken Recipes
Not only can you feel like a Spring chicken when the season comes around, but you can also cook plenty of them. These bright and fresh chicken recipes are perfect for springtime, and they range from sophisticated roasted chickens to one-pan chicken and pasta dinners. Refresh your cooking routine at the start of Spring with these 15 vibrant recipes.
Here Are the 11 BEST Rides at Disneyland, According to Parkgoers
Disneyland is open 365 days out of the year, but for most park visitors, you may only have a handful of days or maybe even just one day at the happiest place on Earth - so which rides should you prioritize? I reached out to POPSUGAR editors who are obsessed with the Southern California Disney park to find out which ride is their favorite. Here are the 11 rides that rose to the top. So if you only have a precious few hours at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, these are the rides that are definitely worth waiting in line for!
See the Over-the-Top Perks of an Emirates Airline Business-Class Flight
I'm not usually one to travel in what you'd call "luxury." I'm a bargain-hunting adventurer who picks the cheapest seat on the plane and who is happy as long as there's a bed to fall into at the end of the day. Or a hammock. Or a sleeping bag. However, that doesn't mean I can't appreciate or, in fact, immensely enjoy it when an extravagant opportunity presents itself. Enter: Emirates business class. The airline is known for being one of the best in the world- and it truly lives up to that status, from its impeccable customer service to its top-of-the-line planes, particularly the business- and first-class sections.
On my recent trip to Thailand with Pandora Jewelry for the opening of a new crafting facility, I was able to experience the palatial features of Emirates business class. I flew from Bangkok, Thailand, to Dubai, UAE; had a layover in Dubai; and then flew Dubai to LA - both legs of the flight (one seven-hour and one 17-hour) were in Emirates business. With large big-screen TVs, personal minibars, full meals and drinks available the entire flight, and so many movie and TV options I couldn't keep count, the flight was a far cry from your average trip - and I loved it.
In addition to the regular perks of flying business class, like priority check-in, a fast pass through security, access to airport lounges, and included food and beverages, Emirates (especially Emirates Airbus 380) offers a unique level of luxury you'll be hard-pressed to find with many other airlines. From an actual lounge on board the plane to seats that recline fully flat, touchscreen technology, and gourmet dining, it's an experience that's worth having (at least once in a lifetime) if you're in the mood to majorly splurge. The downside is that this glamorous method of travel costs well above your average ticket price and can end up costing more than your trip itself. Take a look at the over-the-top features of Emirates business class.
Your Boss ALWAYS Notices These Things About You
No matter what field you're in - health, engineering, media, education, design, etc. - you (most likely) answer to a higher-up, and FYI, said higher-up is evaluating you daily. And not just your work.
Your boss notices a range of things about you, because her job is, well, to keep an eye on you. Whether you like it or not, here are the things she's observing regularly. Pro tip: Work hard five days a week!
1. How early you arrive.
Are you getting to work at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., or 10? Different work cultures require different hours (some offices don't even have a set arrival time), but if you're strolling in at 11:30 every morning, there's probably an issue. Take a cue from your co-workers and get to work around the same time they do.
2. . . . And how late you leave.
Again, you may not have a specified 9-to-5 shift, but reflect on the time you're leaving work every day. Before your co-workers? After? Does it vary? Just make sure you're not ducking out early Monday through Friday.
3. The way you dress.
How you present yourself is, and always will be, important at work. Note that the field you're in (or where you live) dictates your dress code. Some offices are totally lax while others are strictly black slacks and blazers. This is another one where you should be taking cues from your colleagues and dressing (relatively) similarly.
4. How you're using technology.
Are you actually making work calls on your iPhone, or are you chatting with your roommate about who's making dinner tonight? It's common sense, but you should be focusing your use of technology on work. Limit the Facebook check-ins!
5. The words you use.
This is fairly basic, but you really shouldn't be cussing up a storm around your co-workers, in or out of the office. The stench of your potty mouth could reach the nose of your boss, and she might not like it.
6. If you're fitting in.
How do you get along with your colleagues? Are you fitting in, or are you the odd one out? If you're new, chances are that your edges haven't quite squeezed into the intricate, 500-piece puzzle of your office. Attend work events. Round up your co-workers for happy hour. Your boss wants to see that you're a good suit for the team.
7. How you manage your time.
Last but not least, are you managing your time well? Do you get things done efficiently and at the proper pace? Or do you linger on stuff that you shouldn't? It's important to prioritize and meet deadlines, always. After all, you're there to work.
Hello, Freckles! Christina Aguilera Wears Nearly No Makeup on a Stunning New Cover
Over a decade later, Christina Aguilera is channeling the title of her career-defining album, Stripped. After previously teasing "new things on the horizon," the 37-year-old multihyphenate was just revealed as the cover star for Paper's Spring 2018 issue. The stunning shoot oscillates between pictures of Christina wearing avant-garde makeup and nearly no makeup at all.
In the interview, Christina said she is in the process of reassessing her beauty look and embracing a more natural look. "I'm at the place, even musically, where it's a liberating feeling to be able to strip it all back and appreciate who you are and your raw beauty," she said. Without missing a beat, however, she added, "I mean, I'm a girl that likes a beat face, let's not get it twisted."
Christina's barefaced cover look has made us realize a couple things: For starters, she must be a time traveler, because she looks like she hasn't aged since her "Genie in a Bottle" days. Second of all, who knew she had such sweet freckles? Ahead, see all the stripped-down pictures from her shoot, plus all the edgy ones, too!
Sit Back, Relax, and Enjoy These 10 Pictures of Jennifer Lopez Wearing a Swimsuit
Jennifer Lopez knows exactly how to put her curves on display no matter what she's doing. Whether she's swinging off a building on the cover of Harper's Bazaar or just wearing workout clothes, the 48-year-old jack of all trades just keeps getting better and better with age. For decades fans have wondered what her secret is, and the answer is still a mystery.
When Jennifer isn't blowing us away on the red carpet with some of her legendary naked dresses, she's practically causing heart attacks in supersexy swimwear. She loves to rock a basic bikini but switches it up on occasion. She proved just that when she wore this monokini in Paris while on vacation with boyfriend Alex Rodriguez. You might want to sit down before you keep scrolling to see her in these smoldering swimsuits.
10 Staple Shoes Every Woman Should Own
If we lived by Carrie Bradshaw's rules, then we could never have too many shoes. Sometimes we think that truly may be the case. However, we don't have the budget (or closet space for that matter) to jump on every single trend. To make your shopping experience more seamless, we narrowed it down to 10 staple shoe styles that every woman should own at least one of.
Although silhouettes and color schemes change from season to season, these classic shoes will never go out of style. Take a look and follow our trusted footwear plan, so no matter the occasion you'll always be set. We've found them all, from attention-grabbing statement heels to your favorite pair of sneakers. Click on to see, shop, and stock your closet with all the necessary ingredients.
- Additional Reporting by Hannah Weil McKinley
Bella Hadid Tried to Stay Under the Radar, but With These Sneakers? IMPOSSIBLE
Bella Hadid, along with her sister Gigi, landed in Paris on March 27. The duo, who are known to borrow each other's clothes, could not have chosen more different travel outfits. While Gigi touched down at the airport in a sweatpants set, Bella opted to go incognito in all black. The star layered two blazers over a crewneck sweater and then topped off the outfit with a pair of crinkly black pants. For that Matrix-inspired touch, Bella rocked a pair of tiny rectangular sunglasses.
When it came to the shoes, Gigi wore a pair of beige mules from Stuart Weitzman, while Bella chose a comfy pair of Chanel sneakers. The kicks had a two-toned sole, making them instantly cooler than most. The different footwear choices gave subtle hints to each sister's style, but if you find yourself loving Bella's look more, well, shop her exact pair of sneakers, plus similar options, ahead.
Preparing For Childbirth Is Proven to Make You a Better Mother
Before the birth of my first child, I didn't armor myself with knowledge like I should have. Instead of researching breathing techniques, pain relief options, and potential complications, I simply thought, "Yeah, it's going to hurt and there's nothing I can do about it." I didn't think about all the possible scenarios and how I could have given myself the ammo to deal with them. Instead, I gave that power to my obstetrician.
I should have done my homework.
I was bullied into a C-section after only 18 hours of labor. After the surgery, I was pumped with so many drugs that the fog made it difficult to even hold my firstborn. The nurse held my baby to my breast - only to begin the takedown of my nipples. This was not the romantic scene I had signed up for. And things only got worse from there. I felt anxious and depressed that I wasn't nursing successfully, and I had little confidence as a new mother. The C-section that I didn't ask for stripped the power from me completely, making me doubt my ability to mother my own child. I had never cried that much in my life.
When I became pregnant with my second, I was determined to do my research. And as it turns out, being prepared for childbirth has a direct effect on your abilities as a mother (or, more accurately, your thoughts on your ability as a mother). According to the Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, the satisfaction of a woman's childbirth experience has vital health implications for her and her family, and whether a mother is prepared for childbirth can help increase this satisfaction.
Katherine Hinic, PhD, conducted a 2017 study on 107 women in the first four days postpartum who gave birth to a healthy infant, carried to full-term, and planned to breastfeed. The new mothers were given a survey to evaluate their birth satisfaction, stress, and breastfeeding self-efficacy to see how these outcomes connected to their preparedness. Hinic wanted to study this because childbirth is the initial task of motherhood and can greatly impact early parenting. Essentially, a positive birth can be associated with an "increased maternal sense of competence, self-esteem, mastery, confidence, and decreased anxiety."
The study showed that when women were in control and prepared for their labor, they were confident in their ability to breastfeed well. Thus, their overall childbirth experience was favorable, too. The study also demonstrated that women who had longer labors were not as satisfied with their experience. This, I will say, was actually untrue for my second birth. Yes, I labored from start to finish for 50 hours, but I was able to have the vaginal birth I had wanted so badly with my first. Because I was in control, I became a much more confident mother the second time around. I didn't doubt myself, nor did I feel any anxiety.
One surprising thing the study also demonstrated was that receiving pain management had no bearing on childbirth satisfaction. What did matter was whether the mother had the power to choose her method of pain medication. If the mother was prepared, was knowledgeable, and had the autonomy of choosing, then she had a better birthing experience. Thus, her competence in her ability to mother increased as well. Before my second labor started, I wanted to have a natural childbirth, but after 35 hours, I asked, in horrific pain, for that heavenly epidural. I wasn't disappointed - I was pleased that I was the one who made that choice.
The childbirth experience is often the most memorable time in a woman's life. While it's easy to assume (like me) that giving birth is ultimately out of our control, you can (and should) take steps to make sure you're prepared for whatever may happen to your body and your baby. As women, we aren't always granted the opportunity to go through the birthing process many times (if at all), so it's wise to empower yourself with knowledge.
5 Royal Family Mother's Day Traditions You Probably Do Too, and 1 You Definitely Don't
Mother's Day is on its way for us here in the States (it's on May 13 this year), but for our friends across the pond, it's already come and gone (it was on March 11 in the UK). And since the royal family is currently busy with all things royal wedding, you may not have noticed their very low-key celebrations.
In the UK, Mother's Day is traditionally known as Mothering Sunday because it revolves around church. And while the royals may go all out and have fancy photo ops for other church holidays like Christmas, Mother's Day is a lot quieter - they usually all stay out of the public eye. On this day, they're a lot more like us! Since they already celebrated, keep reading to find out exactly what they do to get inspiration for your own mom - or "mum!"
What Mister Rogers Did For This Young Fan in a Coma Will Make You Ache That He's Not Here Anymore
The following story by Beth Usher was originally published on her Facebook page.
When I was five years old, I suffered up to one hundred seizures a day. During my seizures, I would often fall and bang my head on the floor or whatever hard object presented in my descent, and the only way for my mom to shower and dress for work without worrying was to prop me up with soft pillows and place me in front of the TV. One time she turned on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and I didn't have a single seizure for the entire duration of the show. Something in his voice calmed the electrical circuits in my injured brain and allowed my body to rest.
Mister Rogers, my friend, called to ask me about my brain surgery.
My mother and I performed this ritual every work day for two years with great success. I quickly began to consider Mister Rogers a real friend, and would talk back to the TV screen, saying things like, "Yes, I will be your good neighbor!" So it came as no surprise that my sweet mother called Mister Rogers' TV studio in Pittsburgh in preparation for my upcoming brain surgery. My neurologists had determined that I had somehow contracted a very rare brain disease called Rasmussen's Encephalitis. They theorized that a slow growing virus was killing brain cells in the left side of my brain, causing life-altering epileptic seizures. The only cure was an operation called a hemispherectomy, or the removal of one half of my brain. My mother told Mister Rogers' assistant that the show was a sanctuary for me and that I believed Mister Rogers was speaking directly to me when he sang his song, "Won't You Be My Neighbor." She explained about my seizures and upcoming surgery and the fact that that the seizures would subside during his entire show. My mother hoped that Mister Rogers' assistant would send an autographed photo of my TV friend, or even a note from him assuring me that I was going to be OK.
One week before my surgery, the telephone rang. My mother spoke for a few minutes and told me that a friend wanted to talk to me. I remember feeling excited that someone calling themselves a friend was calling me (friendships were difficult for me at the time). I said hello, heard a familiar voice, and immediately felt at ease. Mister Rogers, my friend, asked me about my brain surgery. I told him that I was scared but wanted the seizures to go away; I told him that I wanted the kids in my class to like me and play with me; I asked him about the members of his neighborhood who I had come to love - King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. We talked for nearly an hour. Before I hung up the phone, I said, "I love you, Mister Rogers."
During our seven-hour drive to Johns Hopkins Childrens' Hospital in Baltimore, my mom and I listened to the many cassette audio tapes sent to me by Mister Rogers a few days after his call. His soft voice discussed so many topics that concerned young children. My favorite cassette was the one where he sang, "I like you just the way you are." While in the hospital, I endured back-to-back medical tests to determine if my body could survive the 12-hour surgery to remove my entire left hemisphere. I was confused and scared, but believed my doctors and parents wouldn't do anything to hurt me. In between the tests, I was able to spend time with my beloved brother. We played games and watched movies. I didn't realize it at the time, but my older brother was worried he might never see me again. He was only ten years old.
The very last thing I said to my parents as I was wheeled into the operating room was, "No more seizures."
My surgery went well, and my doctor told my parents they could see me in the recovery room. I lay swollen with tubes and wires in and all around my head and body. My parents had faith in my surgeon and neurologist, but later that night, for reasons that have never been explained, I fell into a deep coma.
Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
With the sounds of life-support machines beeping, IV fluids being pumped into my body, nurses and doctors running in and out of my room, and my parents softly sobbing, you could hear Mister Rogers singing "I like you just the way you are" from a cassette player in my ICU room. My mother was called from the room to the nurse's station where she was handed the phone. It was the Mister Rogers, and he wanted to know how I was doing. My mom gave him the bleak news that although the surgery went well, I suffered severe brain stem swelling and was in a coma. They talked a little more and he told her that he would pray for me. What we didn't know was that Mister Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian Minister.
For the following two weeks, Mister Rogers called every day to ask about my status and to pray with my mother. One morning he called and asked her if it would be OK if he visited me the next afternoon. My mother told him that sadly I was still in a coma and wouldn't know he was there. He said he would come anyway. He asked that she not tell anyone he was coming because he wanted it to be a private visit and didn't want the press to be there.
The next afternoon, Mister Rogers flew from Pittsburgh to Baltimore with only a clarinet case in tow. A minister friend from Baltimore picked him up from the airport and drove him directly to the hospital. My parents, brother, grandparents, and many other family members took turns keeping vigil by my bedside, each trying in their own way to wake me from my coma. They immediately recognized the tall man with the kind face as he stepped inside my room. Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and my favorite, Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
I'd love to end this story by telling you it was in that moment that I emerged from my coma, but that wasn't the case. After his visit with me and several more minutes with my family, Mister Rogers' minister friend drove him back to the airport and he flew back to his hometown in Pennsylvania, taking along an empty clarinet case. What I can tell you, though, is that when I did wake up, Mister Rogers became my real friend and not just a TV friend. We remained close and shared many conversations, birthday wishes, and milestones for the following twenty years until his death on February 27, 2003.
This Wine Bottle Pool Float From Amazon Was Made For Moms Who Love Their Cabernet
Gigantic unicorn pool floats are cool and all, but I just discovered a pool accessory that caters to my one true love in life - wine, duh. While aimlessly scrolling through Amazon and simultaneously daydreaming about Summer, as one does in the wretched throes of Winter, I stumbled upon the wine bottle-shaped pool float of my damn dreams, and now I'm sitting here wondering why time travel isn't a thing because I need it to be Summer ASAP.
This inflatable raft is 7.5 feet long and looks comfortable (and Instagrammable) as heck. I may live in a tiny NYC apartment with no pool access, but you can bet your a** my chardonnay-loving self would schlep my way to a public pool just so I could use this thing. Read on to snag your own wine bottle pool float before it sells out on Amazon, and then keep browsing to see a few of the other alcohol-related raft options the internet has to offer. Hurry up, Summer!
This Math Problem Will Make You Question Everything You Ever Knew About Algebra
Math isn't everyone's best skill - and even those who are good at it are questioning everything after trying this algebra problem.
The question originally went viral in Japan, after a study discovered that only 60 percent of 20-somethings could actually solve it. Are you already feeling frustrated and hopeless at trying to know what the answer is? Watch the video below, posted by YouTube user MindYourDecisions, a popular math puzzle channel. In it, Presh Talwalkar, the mastermind behind this question, will guide you to the right answer.
As you can see, not even a calculator can help you, as it will read the problem wrong and arrive at the answer of 9. To solve it correctly in a calculator, you need to write it out like this: 9-3/(1/3) + 1, which will lead you to 1 as the correct answer. The problem tests your knowledge of PEMDAS, the order of operations formula, which says you must get to the answer by following these steps in this order: parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, subtraction. In this question, that means dividing 3 by the 1/3 first, which is the same as 3x3. That will then lead you to 9-9+1. From there, 9-9=0 + 1 = 1. Ta-da!
If you arrived at 3, 7, or 9 as your answer, you're not alone. Most people have forgotten how to use PEMDAS or interpret the fraction of 1/3 the wrong way. Still not feeling much of a challenge? Try this other math question that not even parents could solve.
Einstein's Secrets to Happiness Are Much Simpler Than You'd Think
Image Source: Getty / Bettmann / Contributor
Albert Einstein certainly had some scientific theories that I can't even begin to wrap my head around, but his approach to happy living was simple, yet so dead on.
Back in 1922, instead of a tip, Einstein gave a courier at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo two hand-written notes describing his theory on happiness. According to the seller, who recently auctioned off one of the notes for a cool $1.56 million, Einstein told the messenger: "Maybe if you're lucky, those notes will become much more valuable than just a regular tip," The Guardian reported.
So what did the two notes read? Both messages resonated with me when I read them, because although they came from a literal genius, they are relatable approaches to finding and maintaining happiness in our lives.
One note said: "A quiet and modest life brings more joy than a pursuit of success bound with constant unrest."
The other simply (and accurately!) stated: "Where there's a will, there's a way."
So the key to happy living, according to arguably one of the most brilliant people to have ever lived, is to stop focusing so much on your perceived idea of success - or anyone else's perceived idea of success - but instead live modestly and with a purpose that is true to your own self.
Image Source: Getty / MENAHEM KAHANA / Contributor
No One Can Spot a Girl's Legs in This Photo and It's Driving People CRAZY
If you find yourself a bit bored and willing to test your patience, take a look at this photo that's going viral on Reddit. The photo in question is driving people a bit crazy because no one can find one person's legs in the picture.
The photo, posted by Reddit user jr0d7771, has amassed more than 400 comments from people trying to figure out where the legs of the girl sitting in the middle are. Is she floating? Is she wearing jeans the same color of the couch? Is this a dream? Is this another trick 2016 is playing on our hearts and brains for fun? Try finding the legs in the photo below.
Did you spot them? Think the actual answer this?
Still curious? Dive deep into the Reddit thread discussing the photo to see other answers (and plenty of jokes). Rather walk away and not let your mind go crazy? That's totally fine, too.
Embracing My Scars as a Transgender Man
Aron A. Moe Macarow is a writer, web developer, and public speaker.
Before I had top surgery, I always assumed that I'd parade my newly flat, masculine chest around outside at every opportunity. But that wasn't quite how it happened. Although I was out as transgender, I had little experience being seen as trans in the way that I forever would be after surgery. While I was less noticeable as a trans man in many respects, going shirtless presented new vulnerabilities that took time to fully appreciate. I was proud of my chest. But my scars? They were another matter entirely.
The first time I took off my shirt in public and had someone ask me about my chest scars, I was on a group trip in Israel with my partner. It was a warm Spring night, and six of us were on a beach at a kibbutz in the Galilee. The company was mixed; not mixed as in men and women (although that was true as well), but the more significant kind of "mixed." I was the only transgender person present.
"If it's not too personal, can I ask what your scars are from?" a guy on our trip politely asked partway through our conversation. He didn't know that I'd transitioned yet. Neither did most of the other couples on our bus.
"Double lung transplant," I deadpanned. My answer might have been a mildly panicked attempt at humor; I'm still not sure. It was definitely all that came to mind.
Before we flew out of Los Angeles to Tel Aviv, I had meant to think through an answer to that question. During an 11-day tour with 38 other people, I knew my scars would invariably come up. But I'd put it off. While thrilled to finally have my top surgery - I would be able to float shirtless in the Dead Sea! I wouldn't have to wear a chest binder while hiking in Petra's sweltering heat! - I also dreaded the questions that my surgical scars would birth. And even though nearly eight and a half months had passed since my procedure, I'd somehow managed to avoid planning for those inevitable conversations.
I was ecstatic with my results, but taking pride in them was something else. That pride seemed like a public comfort that was out of reach. Instead, I simply felt exposed - and nervous.
This might come as a surprise to those who know me, and why wouldn't it? I've written and spoken openly about my experience as a transgender man, and I'm out as queer and trans in most areas of my life. I was even fairly open about my journey toward top surgery itself. Even the moniker I assigned my fundraising campaign, "Operation Hipster Tank Top," came from the sleeveless shirts that I had always ogled but could never wear without a telltale binder showing.
Still, it was one thing to be happy with my new chest privately and entirely another to have my scars in full view. Those 19 inches split into two red lines shouted to any passerby that I was once seen in the world as a woman. Scars tell stories, and that visceral reminder wasn't one I was ready to share yet.
That's starting to change.
Looking in the mirror today, about two years after that first question about my scars and almost three years after the surgery, I still see both incisions that clearly mark me as transgender, although they've since faded to a soft pink. But as they've softened, they've also seeped inward, developing a significance I couldn't have predicted before surgery. I'm beginning to grow proud of my scars.
In the United States, the average top surgery can range anywhere from $3,500 to $9,000, and some well-known surgeons command even higher rates. Because these gender-affirming surgeries are frequently not covered by medical insurance, this can leave transgender people to cover the large sum themselves. I was one of those people, with the total bill from my surgery exceeding $14,000.
How does a 20-something afford a surgery like this without the help of insurance? It often takes a village, and that's what I encounter every time I look at my scars - the love of my community. I imagine the signatures from all 58 backers of my fundraising campaign, like tattoos on my skin. I see the support of my partner and my family. I acknowledge the skill of plastic surgeons who have devoted their careers to making a small population's lives immeasurably better. I recall the years of multiple jobs that I took to save up the first $10,000 of the payment.
Instead of looking past my scars to the chest that I want, I choose to confront them directly now. And through them, I've found a portal that reminds me of some of the best of what the LGBTQ community and our allies are capable of when we all band together.
Scars tell stories, and to my surprise, mine have begun to say more than I expected. I just had to learn how to listen.
See the Over-the-Top Perks of an Emirates Airline Business-Class Flight
I'm not usually one to travel in what you'd call "luxury." I'm a bargain-hunting adventurer who picks the cheapest seat on the plane and who is happy as long as there's a bed to fall into at the end of the day. Or a hammock. Or a sleeping bag. However, that doesn't mean I can't appreciate or, in fact, immensely enjoy it when an extravagant opportunity presents itself. Enter: Emirates business class. The airline is known for being one of the best in the world- and it truly lives up to that status, from its impeccable customer service to its top-of-the-line planes, particularly the business- and first-class sections.
On my recent trip to Thailand with Pandora Jewelry for the opening of a new crafting facility, I was able to experience the palatial features of Emirates business class. I flew from Bangkok, Thailand, to Dubai, UAE; had a layover in Dubai; and then flew Dubai to LA - both legs of the flight (one seven-hour and one 17-hour) were in Emirates business. With large big-screen TVs, personal minibars, full meals and drinks available the entire flight, and so many movie and TV options I couldn't keep count, the flight was a far cry from your average trip - and I loved it.
In addition to the regular perks of flying business class, like priority check-in, a fast pass through security, access to airport lounges, and included food and beverages, Emirates (especially Emirates Airbus 380) offers a unique level of luxury you'll be hard-pressed to find with many other airlines. From an actual lounge on board the plane to seats that recline fully flat, touchscreen technology, and gourmet dining, it's an experience that's worth having (at least once in a lifetime) if you're in the mood to majorly splurge. The downside is that this glamorous method of travel costs well above your average ticket price and can end up costing more than your trip itself. Take a look at the over-the-top features of Emirates business class.
Your Boss ALWAYS Notices These Things About You
No matter what field you're in - health, engineering, media, education, design, etc. - you (most likely) answer to a higher-up, and FYI, said higher-up is evaluating you daily. And not just your work.
Your boss notices a range of things about you, because her job is, well, to keep an eye on you. Whether you like it or not, here are the things she's observing regularly. Pro tip: Work hard five days a week!
1. How early you arrive.
Are you getting to work at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., or 10? Different work cultures require different hours (some offices don't even have a set arrival time), but if you're strolling in at 11:30 every morning, there's probably an issue. Take a cue from your co-workers and get to work around the same time they do.
2. . . . And how late you leave.
Again, you may not have a specified 9-to-5 shift, but reflect on the time you're leaving work every day. Before your co-workers? After? Does it vary? Just make sure you're not ducking out early Monday through Friday.
3. The way you dress.
How you present yourself is, and always will be, important at work. Note that the field you're in (or where you live) dictates your dress code. Some offices are totally lax while others are strictly black slacks and blazers. This is another one where you should be taking cues from your colleagues and dressing (relatively) similarly.
4. How you're using technology.
Are you actually making work calls on your iPhone, or are you chatting with your roommate about who's making dinner tonight? It's common sense, but you should be focusing your use of technology on work. Limit the Facebook check-ins!
5. The words you use.
This is fairly basic, but you really shouldn't be cussing up a storm around your co-workers, in or out of the office. The stench of your potty mouth could reach the nose of your boss, and she might not like it.
6. If you're fitting in.
How do you get along with your colleagues? Are you fitting in, or are you the odd one out? If you're new, chances are that your edges haven't quite squeezed into the intricate, 500-piece puzzle of your office. Attend work events. Round up your co-workers for happy hour. Your boss wants to see that you're a good suit for the team.
7. How you manage your time.
Last but not least, are you managing your time well? Do you get things done efficiently and at the proper pace? Or do you linger on stuff that you shouldn't? It's important to prioritize and meet deadlines, always. After all, you're there to work.
mardi 27 mars 2018
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.
Butterbeer Hair Now Exists, and Hermione Would Definitely Approve
If you've never tried Butterbeer - or have just so happened to find yourself at Hogwarts - it's a sweet and foamy beverage frequently enjoyed by wizards. It also tastes a lot like butterscotch! It's so delicious, in fact, that muggles are now adopting a new hair-color trend inspired by Butterbeer.
First coined by Revelist, Butterbeer hair is basically a shade of caramel that's taken up a few notches with bright yellow and orange tones or highlights. The hair-color trend has so far consisted of more muted shades, neon colors, and everything in between. To get a better idea, browse a few bewitching pictures of the warm hair color ahead.
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:
- 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?
- 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?
- 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.
- 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?
- 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.
- Cruelty-free formula: Whenever possible, I strive to support brands that develop and manufacture products without animal testing.
- 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.
Fenty Beauty Will Launch Its First-Ever All-Over Body Highlighter - and We NEED It
After six months of totally dominating the beauty game, it looks like Fenty will expand into the body category. According to an Instagram Story from brand founder Rihanna, Fenty will release Body Lava, an all-over luminizer.
Yes, the brand that gave us the powder Trophy Wife golden glow will now treat us to its first-ever liquid highlighter just in time for Spring.
Rihanna showed off two hues: a rose-tinted gold and deep mocha bronze. Along with the snap above, she also shared a short video of her two bottles with the caption, "Mine are almost empty."
That ringing endorsement from Rihanna is pretty much all we need to want to go bathe in Body Lava when it is released. Watch this space for more information on a price and official release date when we have it.
This Affordable Set of Facial Oils Is My Secret to Glowing, Healthy Skin
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Yi
Reviving my dry Winter skin is no easy feat, so how have I managed to score a Summer-like glow off season? Hint: it's not highlighter - it's Honey Belle's Gold Collection ($35). The organic, natural skincare line's set features three of its star products: Luxe (cleansing oil), Flora (rosewater toner), and Elixir (facial oil). Although each one is fantastic as a standalone product, they work best in combination with each other to achieve healthy, luminous skin.
After just a week of using the collection, I immediately noticed a smoother, softer, and moisturized face that I'm more confident in showing off sans makeup (like in the photo above). Now two months after putting them into practice, I'm close to retiring my former favorite products in place of these. According to some of the raving reviews online, others have noticed less visible facial scarring, fewer breakouts, and better control of their oily skin in addition to the aforementioned benefits. Here's a breakdown of each bottle!
Step 1: Luxe
This cleansing oil is gentle enough for all skin types but tough on waterproof makeup. Rather than using a harsh makeup remover wipe, apply a few drops of Luxe (starting at $14) into your palm and work through your face in circular motions using your fingertips. You'll see how easily dirt, impurities, and makeup come off. Once you're done, no need to use soap! Simply rinse off with warm water before moving onto the next step.
Ingredients: organic apricot kernel seed oil, rosemary essential oil, bergamot essential oil, and vitamin E.
Benefits: reduces fine lines, age spots, and scars and improves skin tone.
Step 2: Flora
This rosewater toner contains high levels of vitamin C, which aids in erasing fine lines and boosts collagen levels. Flora (starting at $12) soothes acne while providing moisture and ridding bacteria. Apply liberally to your face, and use your fingertips to evenly distribute the product to your skin. It'll seal in the Luxe you used right before and immediately produce a gorgeous glow. But wait, it gets even better.
Ingredients: organic rosewater, witch hazel extract, and rosewood essential oil.
Benefits: cleanses, tightens, and tones the skin; diminishes wrinkles and pores; rejuvenates the skin; reduces acne and scarring; and keeps skin looking healthy.
Step 3: Elixir
The final step of the collection is packed with omega-3s and -6s, which results in improved skin elasticity and, therefore, younger- and healthier-looking skin. Top it all off by rubbing a dime-size amount of Elixir (starting at $15) between your palms and pat onto your face and neck. Enjoy your beaming complexion!
Ingredients: organic cold pressed hemp seed oil, grapefruit essential oil, basil essential oil, rosemary essential oil, and vitamin E.
Benefits: makes skin firmer and more hydrated, enhances dull skin, and improves skin tone.
In addition to smelling amazing and working great for all skin types (including oily skin!), the Gold Collection is also affordable. Each mini bottle (0.5 oz.) is sold separately for $12 to $14 or $35 for all three. Despite its small size, Honey Belle's set has lasted me for the past couple months, and I'm only barely halfway through the bottles.
The site recommends using twice per day, once in the morning and evening, but I've only been using mine at night while I try to get through my other products without putting them to waste. On the weekends, however, I love limiting my skincare routine to this awesome trio and leaving the house with only Glossier's Boy Brow and some mascara on. I've honestly never received so many compliments on my skin before! If you're looking for a low-maintenance skincare regimen, the Gold Collection was made for you.
I Tried This Teeth-Whitening Charcoal From Amazon (It's a No. 1 Bestseller and Made My Grin Glow!)
I am always looking for ways to have a movie-star-glowing grin, so I was excited to find this popular Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder ($25). It's the No. 1 bestselling option on Amazon, it has over 14,000 reviews, and 77 percent of customers give it five stars.
I decided to put the product to the test myself. Step one was to wet my toothbrush. Then I dipped it into the powder and brushed my teeth like I normally would. (Make sure to rinse your mouth with water really well so no black residue is left behind.) My teeth were significantly whiter after a week of using it.
Wondering how charcoal works? The brand explains it best. "Derived from the highest-quality coconut sources, Active Wow's activated charcoal formula is safe to use for whitening your teeth, while being easy on your gums. Active Wow naturally whitens your teeth, not through harsh dental-grade whitening peroxides, but through the power of activated charcoal, nature's best purifiers, and detoxifiers."
If you'd like to see reviews, check out the amazing photos on Amazon. There are countless pictures that prove how well it works.
If you're looking for a noticeably brighter smile, I suggest giving this stuff a try. It doesn't leave you with a weird taste in your mouth - just dazzling teeth.
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