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 4 avril 2018
If You Fear Having a Panic Attack From Smoking Weed, Read This Before Lighting Up
While some of us may think of weed as a way to mellow out, some have had an opposite reaction. Sometimes, for some people, panic attacks can happen.
"Street marijuana will not cause panic attacks if it has low levels of THC," said addiction specialist Dr. Cali Estes. "However, if they're dabbing or have a high THC content, such as one of the higher strains of marijuana, it will likely cause panic attacks because it acts more like LSD," Dr. Estes said. Some strains of marijuana help users relax, while others may cause paranoia and anxiousness.
However, it strongly depends on how much you take. For example, if you take an edible with high levels THC - think 10mg or higher - which is the active ingredient in weed that gets you high, you're far more likely to feel extremely anxious. "For users who have built a tolerance over time, ingesting an edible with similar THC content is more likely to make the user feel sleepy. So it just depends on the individual and how much they take, in addition to which strain they take," Dr. Estes said.
But how common is this anxiety, and is it anything to worry about? "Some cannabis users can experience anxiety from certain strains - but it's important to note that certain cannabinoids will affect each person differently," said Athena Taylor, budtender at The Herbal Connection in Eugene, OR.
Too much THC can cause some patients nervousness, restlessness, and inability to focus, whereas other patients find a calm from high levels of THC. And for those unfamiliar with sativa and indica, sativa is the strain of weed that generally has a higher THC content and gives you that high feeling. Indica has a lower THC content but higher CBD level. Ultimately though, you should look at the THC/CBD levels of the specific strain you're buying. "Anxiety from weed is not connected to just sativa strains, but also can be cause by some indica strains. High levels of the cannabinoid THC can cause anxiety to those patients sensitive to THC's psychoactive effects," Taylor said.
A good way to avoid anxiety from marijuana use is to know your cannabinoids and know your needs. "THC is the most widely advertised and known cannabinoid, but not the only one," Taylor said. "For those people that get high anxiety from the Mary Jane, I strongly recommend they switch from strains high in THC to those strains containing a higher percent of CBD (like indica types). CBD functions as antianxiety and anti-inflammatory cannabinoid, providing stress relief, a state of calmness, and body buzz," Taylor said. When smoked, CBD provides great relief from headaches and nausea without the psychoactive effects of getting high.
CBN is another cannabinoid found in marijuana that works as a relaxer for the mind and body. "I always encourage people to go online and read about all the wonderful healing cannabinoids found in weed," Taylor said.
Other factors that can cause anxiety are lack of hydration, using on an empty stomach, and current stress levels. "When going into a dispensary to buy marijuana products, make your budtender aware of what effect you want from a strain/product and any past experiences with anxiety," Taylor said.
5 Reasons Working Out at Night Will Change Your Life
I don't like to work out in the morning. I'm not a morning person. The aroma of coffee isn't something that wakes me with a smile. The light shining through the blinds at the crack of dawn is something I avoid as much as possible. The heaviest thing I want to be lifting in the morning before work is my pillow. As I said, I'm not a morning person. But wait, we're supposed to work out in the morning, right? Actually, no. You don't have to. In fact, there are a bunch of reasons you should train at night. I do and it changed my life from the first time I tried it.
First things first: Let's put the elephant in the room to bed. You won't be kept awake by training in the evening. That's an old lie that morning people cooked up with their elaborate breakfasts while we were hitting the snooze button and getting a well-deserved rest. In fact, a National Sleep Foundation study found that there was no difference in the quality of sleep for those who exercised vigorously in the evening.
1. You'll sleep better!
Numerous studies like this one have shown that people who lift weights in the evening have better sleep quality and duration than those who lift in the morning or afternoon hours. So, it will actually help you sleep better at night. Not only is a good rest imperative for muscle growth and recovery, but sleeping deeper and longer will enable you to feel better and fully rested by morning. You should definitely be more perky and ready to face the day ahead.
2. You'll have better workouts!
In addition to helping you sleep better, several studies found that training in the evening was the path to significant greater muscular gains and improved endurance. What does that mean for you? You can get more out of your workout if you train at night!
3. You'll have lower blood pressure!
A Journal of Strength Conditioning Research study found that people who trained at night lowered their blood pressure by 15 percent more than those who worked out in the morning.
4. You'll have better results, sooner!
A study from The New England University of Birmingham found that those who work out in the evening can go 20 percent longer and at a higher intensity. That means even more burned calories at night and the residual benefits of better workouts: tighter arms, stronger legs, leaner abs, and an overall healthier life!
5. Your body will be primed to work out!
Not just because you will be getting more recovery sleep and burning more calories either. According to research, our cortisol levels are higher in the mornings, which can inhibit muscle growth. But, testosterone levels are higher in the evening, which will boost muscle growth. So this is a great way to get those results even quicker.
With all these amazing benefits of working out at night, are you ready to give it a try? Go ahead, mix up your routine and see how much better you sleep, feel, and advance in your fitness goals. It just might change your life!
7 Healthy Travel Destinations You Should Add to Your Bucket List
Chemicals are out and all-natural everything is in. There's a surging urge to eat, live, and play better these days. However chaotic the world may seem, there's a rising number of us who are yearning for inner peace in favor of healthier physical and spiritual living.
A wellness revolution is in motion, and with that comes the desire to not only eat and live well, but travel well, too. For those healthy globetrotters who have been bit by the travel bug, there is a cure. There is an ever-evolving list of cities to fall in love with, oceans to explore, and mountains to climb. So, what are some wellness destinations that you can add to the list (for now)? All of you yogis, spiritualists, surfers, hikers, and chillers will want to keep reading.
You Won't Even Miss Meat With These Protein-Packed Breakfast Recipes
Whether you practice a vegetarian diet or are trying to limit the amount of meat in your day-to-day diet, it can be challenging to get the sufficient amount of protein your body needs to function at its best. Breakfast is the meal that kicks off your day, and should fuel you accordingly. These 25 recipes are all meatless, but are also protein-packed and will help to provide you the nourishment you need to feel focused and satiated until lunch time!
These 5 Low-Impact Workouts Will Help You Get in Shape, No Matter What Your Joints Are Up To
So you want to lose weight, get in shape, or build strength, but you're worried about your joints (or dealing with an injury). You don't have to go HAM in the gym or do crazy plyometrics to achieve your goals!
In fact, many of your favorite workouts and activities are excellent tools for stress-relief, weight loss, and strength building - we got the scoop from the queen of low-impact living, Schwinn ambassador and NYC celebrity yoga and Pilates instructor Kristin McGee.
Yoga
"Yoga is one of the best low-impact exercises," said McGee. "Not only are you using your bodyweight to strengthen literally your entire body, but you're also getting an incredible stretch and improving flexibility."
Though a challenging strength-training workout, yoga is gentler on your knees, shoulders, and joints when performed correctly. "Yoga promotes safe range of motion for your joints - there's no bouncing or jarring," she said. "You control and monitor your effort by your breath - which is also great for helping you identify what's discomfort and what's actual pain." This can prevent future injuries while you continue your health journey.
Another great benefit? "Yoga is also ideal for stress management." You're more likely to injure yourself when you're stressed, but "yoga encourages you to stop, move with intention, and just breathe. The simple act of deep breathing helps you to better adapt to daily stressors."
Pilates
Another mood-boosting, supersafe workout is Pilates. "Whether you are on the mat or using machines, Pilates is a flowing practice, so it allows your body to move gently - but the movements will still test your strength and stamina," said McGee. "And it can help promote weight loss; these routines naturally boost your metabolism, which helps you shed pounds." Just further proof you don't have to do superaggressive workouts to lose weight!
"Resistance exercise within Pilates involves the use of resistance bands and springs (if you use the machines)," said McGee. "These movements help build both muscle and bone strength without putting your body under excessive weight. Pilates also promotes mental wellness - it's an ideal way to get away from your hectic schedule for a while and focus on much-needed you time. It's also great for reducing anxiety."
Cycling
You don't have to work out inside - everyday activities you love can be your favorite form of low-impact exercise and help you stay in shape. One of our favorites? Cycling. McGee agreed.
"I love cycling because you're using your joints in a safe range of motion," she said. "Here, too, there isn't jarring or sudden stopping. So many people turn to cycling after a knee injury or surgery because it's an amazing form of rehab. It's an ideal way to add cardio into your routine so it complements the strength training and flexibility you get through yoga."
"Your feet stay in contact with the pedals so you get this beautiful circular motion, like a Sun Salutation cycle. I also find I get the same moments of zen while cycling outside in nature that I get from yoga or Pilates. It really puts you in a meditative space."
For outdoor cycling, McGee uses a hybrid bike, which she said is ideal for those who are "just getting into cycling or are using cycling to complement your overall workouts." Why? This style of bicycle is "unintimidating and versatile so it does well on pavement and crushed gravel."
Swimming
"Much like in yoga and Pilates, swimming uses your bodyweight for cardio and strengthening, but with the added resistance from the water," said McGee. "This, again, is a wonderful range of motion for the joints and promotes heart health and longevity without putting any strain or pressure on your joints." Sounds like a win to us! Plus, being in the water is so serene, right?
Pregnant? Worried about your workout's intensity? McGee says this is "ideal" and noted that "many of [her] pregnant yoga and Pilates clients also regularly swim as part of their pregnancy workout routines."
And don't worry - you don't need to transform into Michael Phelps for this. "Don't feel like you need to gear up and swim laps to get the benefit out of swimming. During my pregnancy with twins, I took advantage of the water anytime we were near it - whether it was at a beach or in a friend's pool."
TRX Strength Training
You may have weak or injured joints, but you can still seriously strength train! "Lifting weights at the right level for you helps you build lean muscle mass and boost your metabolism," said McGee. "By using weights, TRX bands, or TheraBands, you're able to add the complementing pulling movement" that complements the pushing movements of yoga.
"Some of the best strength-training moves are the simplest (and can be done with or without weights or using a TRX strap)," she said. "Lunges and squats work your hamstrings, quads, glutes, and even your core - everyone should know how to do these moves - or a modified version with a chair or a physio ball against a wall."
By learning these staple exercises, you'll "strengthen the important muscle masses that help keep your joints in place," she told POPSUGAR. "If your glutes are weak, you'll put a lot of pressure on your knees. If your core is weak, it puts pressure on your back."
This Gymnast Did an Entire Michael Jackson Floor Routine - and Yes, She Moonwalks!
UCLA gymnast Katelyn Ohashi is going viral for her incredible Michael Jackson floor routine, and it's sure to make you want to get up and dance along. At the 2018 Pac 12 Championships, the student athlete performed a standing-ovation worthy floor routine set to a medley of Michael Jackson hits, including "Thriller" and "The Way You Make Me Feel." Katelyn incorporated a killer moonwalk into the middle of her performance, and ended it with an insane drop split that'll have your jaw on the damn floor.
Her flawless and sassy routine landed her a score of 9.95 out of 10, allowing her to tie for first in the competition. Join the 43 million fans who've already admired Katelyn's now-viral MJ-themed routine by watching it above.
I Did 20 Push-Ups Every Day For 2 Weeks and Here's What I Learned
Earlier this year, I could string together a solid 14 to 16 push-ups without stopping. It was a skill that took me quite some time to master. And by "quite some time," I mean months and months. For that, my gratitude lays with CrossFit. When I'd see them on the list of to-dos for a daily WOD (workout of the day, in CrossFit speak), I felt excitement over dread. I got to a point where I looked forward to seeing just how many I could crank out before dropping to my knees for that modification. I looked forward to watching what was four up to six, and six up to eight.
But then I hurt my back. Lifting too much weight overhead during the CrossFit Open triggered some nagging arthritis in my lumbar spine, and push-ups were one of the first things to go. Maintaining that tension in my core, rep after rep, bothered my back. Although I was taking the time to work on my core strength, I didn't want to risk the unintentional pain; I started doing push-ups constantly from my knees, reverting back to my pre-gains status. I felt like the last year of strength successes were subsiding.
Here's the thing: I'm not the kind of person to take "subpar" as status quo. So, naturally, after a couple of months of accepting this on-the-knees approach, change was imminent. The logical decision? I was going to work back to stringing together a slew of push-ups, ASAP. The plan? Rise to the challenge. Using the app Spar, I challenged three friends (including my boyfriend) to do 20 push-ups every day for two weeks. The best part is hands down the penalty: if you miss a day, Spar charges your credit card $3. Thus, I present you with four lessons I learned doing 20 push-ups a day for two weeks:
1. Not every goal has to be astronomical.
I knew going into this challenge that just because I started on this goal didn't mean I was automatically going to crank out standard push-ups easy-breezy. Setting a goal of 20 push-ups felt like a lot, but I knew that 10 would be a little too easy. So I started small. I wasn't going to crush all 20 push-ups from high plank from the get-go. So, after doing a few going through the motions from high plank to low plank, I'd drop to my knees and finish the rest of them modified. Being easy on myself made this OK. Being easy on myself made me feel like I could make positive progress. As the weeks progressed, I worked on doing more and more in the standard format before giving in to the alternative.
2. A support network makes everything better.
If I had simply challenged myself to do 20 push-ups each day, I probably wouldn't have stuck it out. Not because I don't have willpower, but because . . . let's be honest: things always get in the way. Watching my friends execute their reps (Spar makes you record a 10-second video every day when you check-in to show the challenge participants you're not fibbing), I felt motivated to do mine. The trash talking . . . well, that motivated me a bit, too.
3. When you think you can't go any more, do one more.
That's when I focused on all the things you're supposed to focus on when executing the perfect push-up: lean slightly forward, keep your shoulders stacked over your elbows, engage your core. When I felt like my triceps couldn't bear lowering my body weight back to the ground (nevertheless pushing it back up), I took a deep breath, paused, and then pushed past my comfort zone. Despite struggling before the rep, I'd say that almost always that last can-I-keep-doing-this push-up was my best.
4. The best is yet to come.
Probably the best part of the challenge was waking up to a "You lost!" email (both my boyfriend and I missed one day each, paying out a total of $3 to our friends). Within an hour, the group text was lighting up with questions like "What's next?" paired with suggestions. Sure, we all like a little friendly competition. But now that I've built up my arm strength, I'm thinking those lunges are a good idea.
The Weightlifting Technique That Will Change Your Body
Ever plan to go to the gym and stop dead in your tracks because you just don't know what to do? Maybe your goals are too broad? Maybe you're expecting too much? How can you really lose weight, gain lean muscle, and build your dream body with just one simple workout plan that doesn't require you move into the gym for the next year? Clearly, you're expecting too much from your efforts, right? Wrong! There is a way to reshape your body by losing fat and gaining muscle without spending countless hours in the gym. What do you have to do? Lift heavy weights to create lean muscle and lift light weights to promote fat loss. The best part? You can be in and out of the gym in less than 30 minutes each day. Here's how!
The heavy and light strength-training plan combines a couple of the most fundamental principles of lifting weights. The intention is to do an exercise for four sets with a heavy weight and low reps (up to six) and then another exercise that targets the same muscle for four more sets with higher reps (up to 12), but with a lighter weight. According to personal trainer Brian Pankau, CPT, you need to take "two to three minutes of rest between heavy [sets], and 45 to 60 seconds between lighter sets."
How does this plan work? When you lift heavy weights your muscles fatigue and ultimately grow (you won't look like a bodybuilder - we promise). From there, you work the same muscles with lighter weights to totally exhaust them, which burns more calories, creates a leaner body composition, and increases endurance. Muscles grow, body fat decreases, and you're only doing two exercises per body part. According to Anthony J. Yeung, CSCS, with this plan, "you'll burn more calories, shed fat, add more strength, and feel more energetic in daily life."
As a result of this significant caloric depletion, certified personal trainer and owner of HitchFit.com Micah Lacerte cautions that, "Nutrition will play a big role in what sort of results someone will get performing this plan, but if they are on [the proper type of diet], then this style of training will be excellent for building lean muscle." You have to make the effort to eat six small meals each day that all include some form of protein - with specific care to ensure you're getting protein before and after you work out.
While this plan can definitely work, it may not be for everyone. Pankau believes that while "fat loss is going to occur, [it may] not be fast enough for somebody with too much excess fat, so this plan is great for light and medium builds, but not really meant for heavier-set people."
What does this mean for you? For tight and toned triceps, a good combo would be overhead triceps extensions with a heavy weight and triceps kickbacks with lighter weights. For leaner, more sculpted legs, do leg presses with a heavy weight, and lunges with light dumbbells at your sides, or no added weights at all! For stronger, tighter biceps, heavy hammer curls and light preacher curls. The key is to do two moves per body part, one heavy, one light as described above. This will exhaust your muscles, promoting growth while leaning out your body. If you're in average shape, you can look way above average in less time. If you're in good shape, you may want to move to a beachfront property soon. Enjoy!
Cardi B Shares a Steamy Kiss With Fiancé Offset in the Lavish "Bartier Cardi" Music Video
Rumors about Cardi B's personal life might be swirling, but it's clear the rapper of the moment couldn't care less. In the lavish music video for her and 21 Savage's hit "Bartier Cardi," which premiered during an episode of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (she appeared in the cast of season six and seven of the New York version of the show), the 25-year-old channels serious glam as she struts through a cotton-candy-colored mansion and writhes around on the hood of a car. Oh, and if you're one of the people questioning her relationship with fiancé and Migos rapper Offset, their backseat make-out should help quell those doubts. At the very least, it should make you even more excited for the release of her debut album, Invasion of Privacy.
A New Day, a New Slogan Sweatshirt From Selena Gomez - So What's It Say This Time?
Even when she is leaving a workout, Selena Gomez somehow manages to look poised and pulled together. The singer/actress was spotted leaving a Pilates studio in a sleek yet sporty monochromatic look. For the fitness class, Selena wore a white cropped tee by Cotton Citizen ($90), black Puma shorts ($20), and sneakers ($65). She completed the laid-back ensemble by draping a black hoodie over her shoulders that had "Friend of Sinners" emblazoned down the sleeves.
The $50 sweatshirt comes from Vous Church, which is run by celebrity pastor Rich Wilkerson, Jr., who famously officiated Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's wedding. Just in case her message wasn't clear from the slogan hoodie, Selena also made her spirituality known by carrying a Bible as she exited the class. Click through to snag her exact sweatshirt, or shop our roundup of similar slogan hoodies.
16 Stylish Coats Inspired by Selena Gomez's Perfect Wardrobe
If you're searching for Winter outfit inspiration, look no further than Selena Gomez. This season, my personal style obsession with her has hit a whole new level. From her chic sneakers to pretty floral dresses, she's been on fire. And one thing she always get right is her outerwear. From long dusters to glossy rain coats, we want it all. We did a little research and uncovered some of her best looks and rounded up a list of stylish picks you can wear yourself.
13 Words in Spanish That Don't Have an English Equivalent - So Frustrating!
If you're a Spanish speaker, you probably find yourself at a literal loss for words often. There are just so many times when you know a Spanish term (just a few letters put together) can perfectly describe what you're feeling, but no matter how much you rack your brain to find the English version, you come out with nothing - or a very long and complicated sentence that simply doesn't feel right. It's not your fault! We've come up with just 13 commonly used Spanish terms that don't quite translate into English, making for frustration and the need for Spanglish. Scroll ahead to find our list.
The Only People Who Call Cardi B by Her Real Name Are Her Parents
Cardi B took the music world by storm last Summer with her hit songs "Bodak Yellow" and "Bartier Cardi," and the former reality TV star isn't showing any signs of slowing down. Her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, is sure to top the charts - so shouldn't you learn a little more about her? Let's start with her real name.
Cardi was born Belcalis Almanzar to a Trinidadian mother and Dominican father on Oct. 11, 1992, in the Bronx. She's admitted that "no one calls me Belcalis except for my family, my mother and my daddy." During an appearance on The Wendy Williams Show, Cardi explained that she got her nickname from the rum brand Bacardi, saying, "Everybody used to [call me] Bacardi. Then I shortened it to Cardi B, [and] the 'B' stands for beautiful or bully, depending on the day." We'd hate to catch Cardi on "bully" day.
This $5 Drugstore Concealer Is the Key to Cardi B's Flawless Under-Eye Area
Cardi B always looks like she's "drippin' in finesse," and although she loves switching up her look, one thing that remains consistent is her ride-or-die love of drugstore beauty products. The rapper's makeup artist, Erika La' Pearl, already revealed that Cardi's go-to foundation is the Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation + Concealer ($10), but now she's spilling the beans on how she covers up Cardi's under-eye bags.
"I'm not saying this is bad, but she does have bags," Erika told E! News. "She works 24/7, so she doesn't get much sleep."
To achieve a flawless complexion, Erika starts with the Tarte Poreless Mattifying Primer ($32), and follows that up with the L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer ($5) in orange to cover up any darkness. The orange color works to counteract the deep blue hues that dull the appearance of under-eye skin. After applying the corrector, Erika uses the Sisley-Paris Instant Eclat ($90) to blur out any fine lines and wrinkles.
"When you apply that all over the face, it covers the darkness, so when the light hits her, you can't see any bags," she said. "When that ring light hits it, you look just like a doll."
If you haven't already, start taking notes, because there's no denying that Cardi's makeup always looks flawless.
Prepare to Be Shocked by How Much Christina Aguilera Has Changed
When Christina Aguilera burst onto the scene in 1999 with her debut self-titled album, she was just 19 years old. Now, she has an incredible career with seven albums under her belt, and back in August 2015, she gave birth to her second child. Also, if her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon taught us anything new, it's that Christina is really, really good at pop star impressions. We thought it was high time we look back at her incredible transformation through the years, as well as the inspiring quotes about body image she's shared along the way. Keep reading to go all the way back to 1999.
This Beauty Blogger Is Shattering Racial Stereotypes of Cosplay
If there's one beauty blogger you need to keep your eyes on, it's Kiera Please. The 21-year-old is known for flaunting colorful hair styles and her 300,000 followers love it. Her latest project involves breaking down racial stereotypes in cosplay by dressing as different popular TV and movie characters from Disney and Harry Potter.
Please is participating in #28DaysofBlackCosplay, a challenge started by Chaka Cumberbatch-Tinsley, in honor of Black History Month. The idea behind the challenge is to change what people think about cosplay and who can participate in it. For Please, she "wanted to show that not only can you be black and cosplay, but honor some bad*ss characters of color as well . . . ," she wrote in an Instagram post.
Ahead, see some of our favorite cosplays from Please. The cosplays are so incredible that they're going viral on Imgur.
Kellyanne Conway Claims the White House Never Talks About Hillary Clinton - Sure, Jan
In news that is hardly believable, Kellyanne Conway is claiming the White House doesn't talk about Hillary Clinton much following the 2016 Election.
The Counselor to the President recently appeared on CNN with Chris Cuomo to discuss the ongoing FBI investigation into potential collusion between Donald Trump's campaign and Russian officials. While denying possible collusion, Conway said, "We beat her fairly and squarely in this country through this democratic elective process. Look, so many people still can't get over the election results."
As Cuomo laughed it off and insisted that the Trump administration is still obsessing over the election and Clinton, Conway said, "I'll make you a deal, Chris: I'll never talk about her again but then you can't talk about the 2016 Election because she lost that election." Adding, "We don't care about her. Nobody here talks about her. Nobody here talks about Hillary Clinton, I promise you."
Kellyanne Conway claimed "nobody here talks about Hillary Clinton" despite the fact that President Trump mentioned her at least 3 times earlier today #CuomoPrimeTime https://t.co/sGNQfZyNRt
- Christopher C. Cuomo (@ChrisCuomo) January 11, 2018
Not only is Conway's claim a generalization of epic proportions, it's also flat-out untrue. In fact, just a few days before her interview, the president had tweeted about Clinton while slamming Michael Wolff's Fire and Fury. He again tweeted about Clinton on the morning of Jan. 11, the day after Conway's interview.
You're Going to Love This Illustrator's Minimalist Makeover of Harry Potter
It's not easy reimagining our favorite characters from Harry Potter or Star Wars in totally different looks. It's what makes fan art so incredible; dedicated artists and illustrators come up with those images for us. One designer has done it again by creating minimalist illustrations of Harry Potter, Rey, Daenerys Targaryen, and more.
The project, called "Minimal Pop Culture," was created by Amanda Penley, a designer and illustrator living in LA. It's not the first time she's dabbled in coming up with beautiful illustrations of our favorite scenes in books. This time, however, she wanted to focus on "the simplicity of what makes a character," she said to POPSUGAR. To do this, she only used "simple shape[s] and lines" to create the characters you'll see ahead. To her, they barely take any time to put together as she just changes different hair colors and other features of the head and body.
In doing this project, Penley hopes people "are inspired by seeing the characters they know and love." Once you see some of our favorites ahead, you'll definitely love them.
I Spoke Up About My Sexual-Harasser Boss
When I was in my early 20s, I worked at a magazine - and my boss sucked. This guy came in late, left early, and spent the day achieving impressive feats of laziness. Despite his utter lack of productivity, he demanded a lot of his employees and attempted to motivate us with tales of how hard he used to work when he was younger, describing the "pyramids of empty Pepsi cans" he used to fuel his late nights. He was incredibly annoying and, turns out, kind of a creep.
My boss - let's call him Doug - was in his mid-30s and managed a very junior team, all of us in our 20s. Under Doug, we were fairly isolated from other managers or mentors, and we kept our complaints about our boss within our little group. Over time, I started spending more time with my peers at happy hours and became close friends with one woman in particular, who confided in me that our lazy boss had made a pass at her.
She hadn't reported it, she said, because the incident was more gray area than black and white - as most cases of sexual harassment are. For one thing, the harassment took place after work hours and several drinks. The team had attended a happy hour that lasted long past happy hour, and Doug insisted on walking her home from the bar and hitting on her relentlessly along the way - even going so far as to press her up against a wall and attempt to kiss her. Though he had a pregnant wife at home, he was determined to persuade my friend to let him come home with her. When they arrived at her apartment, Doug tried to come inside and, when rebuffed, lingered outside her building for an uncomfortable amount of time. (Note: some details of this story have been omitted to protect privacy.)
I was horrified. I wanted to help her and prevent Doug from doing this to someone else. But the incident had taken place maybe six months before, and she was ready to move past it. She lacked a female mentor at work who she could have gone to for advice, and being inexperienced myself, I kept quiet about her story but also never forgot it.
Shortly after she had told me her story, she and another coworker went public about the fact that they were dating. She and her new boyfriend (they're actually married now) had Doug as a boss, and the moment their relationship was out in the open, something switched in Doug. He grew more reserved and removed from office socializing. He let his hair and facial hair grow long and unkempt. It was like his fear that my friend might tell or had told her boyfriend this secret was eating at him from the inside.
Not long after all this, I was promoted, so Doug was no longer my manager. My new boss, a wonderful man who is still a friend and mentor to me today, pulled me into his office one day and said, "tell me the truth. How much does everyone on that team hate Doug?" I felt a wave of relief come over me and proceeded to list my grievances about his terrible management and laziness. Though I withheld the details of my friend's experience, I also told my new boss that I'd heard accounts of incredibly inappropriate behavior toward a young woman at the company. He nodded his head, as if I was confirming suspicions he'd had for a while.
Not long after, Doug was let go. Technically, his position was "eliminated," which meant no one had to address his performance issues or the sexual harassment accusations. But all that mattered to me at that point was that he was gone and could no longer get away with being such an incompetent creep.
Nearly 12 years later, I'm still grateful to that boss who invited me to speak out about Doug and listened. I often joke that I'm good at keeping secrets but also very good at giving unsolicited advice. I won't share a secret that someone doesn't want shared, but I will advise them on how to deal with the issue, even if they don't want my help dealing with it.
That philosophy has carried over into how I behave as a manager. I try to be the type of manager who people feel comfortable coming to about anything, even if it's uncomfortable. My experience with Doug also made me realize the importance of having professional mentors who are women, because as the #MeToo campaign has proven, pretty much all women understand that sexual harassment is pervasive. The next step is getting all of us more comfortable with speaking up when it happens.
5 Harry Potter Secrets You Definitely Didn't Know . . . Until Now
Though she may seem like a muggle, J.K. Rowling is definitely magical. A former waitress without any formal training in creative writing, the author of the Harry Potter series created a world where anything (except maybe Snape investing in decent shampoo) is possible.
There is a book that will excite fans worldwide: an in-depth bibliography about the author's literary journey. JK Rowling: A Bibliography 1997-2013 by Philip Errington is so detailed that Rowling described it as "slavishly thorough and somewhat mind-boggling." Basically, you should be happier than Hagrid in an exotic pet store at this news.
The bibliography, which follows Rowling throughout the process of penning each entire Harry Potter book, is a veritable Diagon Alley of previously unknown facts about the series. If you don't have time to read it to find out all of secrets, don't worry - you can check out this list for a few that even Hermione wouldn't know.
Ivanka Trump Gets Real About the Media's "Viciousness," and the Internet Fires Back
Ivanka Trump opened up in an interview on Fox and Friends about what it's been like to work in Washington since her father took office, and the internet couldn't help but roast her. One of the show's cohosts, Brian Kilmeade, asked the first daughter on June 12 how she's been managing to stick to her duties despite the constant media backlash, to which she admitted that it's been pretty difficult.
"There's a level of viciousness that I was not expecting," she said. "I was not expecting the intensity of this experience, but this isn't supposed to be easy." She also went on to further explain how she was "blindsided" by the "distractions" and "ferocity" of Washington DC. You can see her explain it ahead.
"There is a level of viciousness that I was not expecting...but this isn't supposed to be easy." -@IvankaTrump pic.twitter.com/viiMQ2ij1d
- FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) June 12, 2017
Of course, people simply couldn't resist calling her out on social media for her comments, specifically the tidbit about the "viciousness" surrounding her father's presidency. Many Twitter users used this as an opportunity to point out that it's not the media that's brutal, but rather President Donald Trump himself.
Viciousness is mocking a disabled reporter, insulting the parents of a dead soldier, impugning an entire religion and attempting to ban them
- Amanda Guinzburg (@Guinz) June 12, 2017
Ivanka's father, @realdonaldtrump, wants to take healthcare away from 24 million people. That's quite vicious.
- VoteVets (@votevets) June 12, 2017
Her father sold "Hillary for Prison" merch in his official campaign shop. https://t.co/PJHdnAEchn
- Matt Compton (@mattcompton) June 12, 2017
It kind of seems like Trump is seeking pity for this so-called "ferocity," but she probably should've thought twice about her word choice in the first place. The internet will always snatch up any opportunity to roast her father's polarizing actions and she'll need to get used it for three and a half more years.
The Top 10 US Destinations You Won't Want to Miss in 2018, According to Lonely Planet
Luckily for us, we don't even need to step foot outside of the country to check items off of our bucket lists - because there's plenty to see in our own backyards! For local travel inspiration, look no further than Lonely Planet's best in the US list, the eighth edition of which was released to the public on Feb. 6. California's Redwood Coast snagged the number one spot for 2018 and was followed followed by nine other spectacular, must-see destinations across the country. If you're planning an all-American road trip this year, be sure to add the following spots to your itinerary.
The Best Mobile Games of 2018
Let's be honest: in 2018, it's damn near impossible to find a single person in your life who doesn't spend at least a few minutes a day playing games on their phone. And while the good ol' classics remain high up on everyone's list - Candy Crush and Words With Friends, I'm looking at you - there's a whole incredible universe of games out there that are very much worth your time.
So, to make finding those new favorites even easier, we've begun testing some of the hottest titles on the market, and ahead, you can check out the ones we've loved most so far this year. And be sure to check back here as 2018 progresses, as we'll be updating with every new release that you absolutely must download ASAP.
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.
The Trump Family Is Bankrupting the Secret Service, Because Vacations
It's no secret that President Donald Trump is used to a certain kind of lifestyle. From weekly trips to Mar-a-Lago at $3.6 million a pop to a 17-day "working vacation" at his New Jersey golf club, it's also clear that he hasn't made any attempts to tamp down his jet-setting since taking office. But while bankrolling the gallivanting of a real estate developer or reality television star was Trump's prerogative before he took office, he's now reliant on the federal government and the taxpayers to foot the bill. To make matters worse, his entire family requires security protection when they travel. And like the president himself, none of them can stay still for very long. As a result, countless people have tried to slow the Trump family's roll - none of whom have found any sort of lasting success. That is, until now.
On Aug. 21, USA Today reported that the Secret Service budget had been depleted and "more than 1,000 agents have already hit the federally mandated caps for salary and overtime allowances that were meant to last the entire year." That's right: it's August, and the Trumps have officially maxed out the budget for their protection. While some of the weight can be shifted to the fact that Trump has 11 more people under protection than the previous administration did, it's hard to explain away some of the more egregious spends. Take, for example, "some $60,000 on golf cart rentals alone," the costs associated with Melania and Barron Trump spending the majority of this year living in the heart of Manhattan, or the fact that "Eric Trump's business travel to Uruguay cost the Secret Service nearly $100,000 just for hotel rooms."
"I would rarely leave the White House because there's so much work to be done. I would not be a president who took vacations. I would not be a president that takes time off," Trump told a reporter back in 2015. And now, as the director of the Secret Service pleads his case on the Hill for a budget increase and the overtime can't be stacked up any further, Trump may soon have to do something completely out of character: be true to his word.
Salt Bae Who? "Walmart Yodel Boy" Is Shaping Up to Be 2018's Best Meme Yet
Me: which aisle can i find light bulbs?
Walmart employee: pic.twitter.com/bwiWQAsz6O- David (@dumbassvegan) March 27, 2018
It's truly only a matter of time before 10-year-old Mason Ramsey makes a well-deserved appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The young boy is taking the internet by storm after video footage surfaced of him showing off his yodeling chops in the middle of a Walmart in Harrisburg, IL. In the now-viral clip, Mason belts out the lyrics to Hank Williams Jr.'s "Lovesick Blues" while engaging in some off-beat foot tapping (and standing in front of a lovely selection of air mattresses). Having donned a red bow tie, a sizable belt buckle, and clunky boots, Mason puts his impressive yodel on display for his fellow Walmart shoppers, and to be honest, the kid's got talent that anyone - even non-yodelers - can appreciate.
When the internet caught wind of Mason's legendary singing skills, the Illinois boy went through what we like to call "the meme treatment": almost instantaneously, dozens of Twitter users found themselves cracking wise about his yodeling on social media. Below is just a sampling of the LOL-worthy meme, but watch out, Salt Bae - "Walmart Yodel Boy" is here to snatch your spotlight faster than you can sensually sprinkle salt on a hunk of meat.
"how could you even watch the walmart yodel boy"
me, an intellectual: pic.twitter.com/GU9xDhzQ3P- salwa (@salyonce) April 1, 2018
Me if I ever hear the yodel kid around the isle at Walmart pic.twitter.com/MQzBJspi9v
- Pijus Bulvinas (@pbulvinas) April 2, 2018
Me: I hate country
Walmart yodel boy: sweet daaaAaaAaady such a beautiful dream
Me: pic.twitter.com/hWfV26Yrs8- Aïcha (@aiesthetic) April 1, 2018
me arriving at the walmart cyrus is in, vocal chords perfectly lubricated, ready to yodel pic.twitter.com/2BXGLliye4
- jaq !! (@vices_era) March 31, 2018
"how could you even watch the walmart yodel boy"
me, an intellectual: pic.twitter.com/JZoNVQrGSE- gheeda (@kehlanimila) April 1, 2018
When you finish your yodel solo in front of your grandma at Walmart pic.twitter.com/gokT35Vjen
- Nathan Winn (@The_Winnster) March 31, 2018
No one can seem to get Mason's yodeling out of their heads.
them: are you ok
me: I'm fine
my brain: pic.twitter.com/tfhjIB3HaD- heaviside (@vgestrellita) April 1, 2018
the walmart yodel kid isn't a joke anymore I've been singing this song for 3 days straight
- xana 2.0 (@xxaannaa23) April 3, 2018
i've had walmart yodel boy stuck in my head for a solid six hours now pls send help
- sweet tea (@lilpumpknmuffin) April 3, 2018
friend: hey u ok? u seem kinda distant
me: yeah of course!
my mind: why is that kid even singing in a walmart? where did he learn to yodel like that? in what state did this happen? did his mom put him up to that? did the crowd clap when he finished? do you th- sav!! ✨🤸♂️🌺 (@paaparoni) March 31, 2018
i cant stop thinking about yeehaw walmart yodel boy. he's been running through my mind all day. im so scared. please help me. pic.twitter.com/sX3JfRcL0m
- helena (@helenabelete) March 31, 2018
A few dedicated fans went so far as to imitate him in their local Walmarts.
Today I learned that I'll leave yodeling in Walmart to Mason Ramsey. @TheEllenShow, if yeehaw yodel boy cant make it on the show, you know where to find me. pic.twitter.com/rCDHcFIboC
- alexa (@alexatabbacc) April 2, 2018
So I went to Walmart this morning looking for the yodel kid and this happened 💀 pic.twitter.com/paMV9L7MNy
- THATBOYJAY🌊 (@JayPartyboyy) April 3, 2018
Some people even made their own interesting remixes.
Walmart yodel kid get at me pic.twitter.com/kbJ9uZFfri
- alex medina (@mrmedina) April 2, 2018
There should probably be some sort of law prohibiting this pic.twitter.com/LGS38MQ87f
- lowercase (@lowercase464) April 1, 2018
Can stop listening to the yodel Walmart boy remix. Every time the beat drops I transcend the physical world pic.twitter.com/EqS99BGdwC
- Helen Mendoza (@helenmendozaa) April 3, 2018
the only exception feat. walmart yodel boy pic.twitter.com/geiKWVB5Ek
- emma (@misguidedem) April 1, 2018
One person made a Sims version of Mason's viral video.
we made the walmart yodel boy on sims pic.twitter.com/DA6D0ZlAEF
- juullian (@100dollajill) April 1, 2018
The internet thinks he could be a serious threat to other artists.
somewhere father john misty is watching the walmart yodel boy SHAKING
- jaboukie young-white (@jaboukie) April 1, 2018
taylor swift: boring, old, has been, strained vocals
walmart yodel kid: smart, revolutionary, DaAdDDddDy, skinny, king of yodeling, young- george (@_gapc) March 31, 2018
*Waits for official confirmation of Mason's first musical tour*
Can't wait for this Yodel Kid x Walmart tour y'all pic.twitter.com/EcN1DsZkrZ
- Alex Chaney (@alexalexchaney) April 3, 2018
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.
The 4 Pieces of Advice Barack Obama Gave Donald Trump on Inauguration Day
As President Donald Trump prepared to take office on Inauguration Day, Barack Obama quietly vacated the West Wing. But Obama left something behind during his exit: a letter, one that traditionally passes between two presidents as the highest office in the land changes hands. "We just went to the Oval Office and found this beautiful letter from President Obama. It was really very nice of him to do that," Trump bragged to the press several days later, adding, "We won't even tell the press what's in that letter."
On Sept. 2, CNN finally obtained that letter, exclusively. The missive is a reminder of the grace and well-spoken nature of the 44th president and a testament to the time he spent reflecting on the state of the union. Most notable, however, are the incredibly astute pieces of advice that Obama wanted to pass on to the new commander-in-chief. From a tip on leadership to a reminder about the importance of those you surround yourself with, the gracious "reflections" feel like a stolen moment between two incredibly powerful men.
Below you'll find the four items Obama put forth to Trump in the note he left on the Resolute desk of the Oval Office.
Remember those less fortunate than yourself.
"We've both been blessed, in different ways, with great good fortune. Not everyone is so lucky. It's up to us to do everything we can (to) build more ladders of success for every child and family that's willing to work hard."
Lead by example, and lead the world.
"American leadership in this world really is indispensable. It's up to us, through action and example, to sustain the international order that's expanded steadily since the end of the Cold War, and upon which our own wealth and safety depend."
Protect the American democracy and its institutions.
"We are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions - like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties - that our forebears fought and bled for. Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them."
Spend time with your loved ones.
"Take time, in the rush of events and responsibilities, for friends and family. They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches."
Trump's Latest Speech Left the Entire Internet Confused as F*ck
On April 2, Melania Trump hosted 2018's annual Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House. Just before the festivities got underway, her husband took the floor to address the crowd - and that's when things went from zero to incoherent real quick. After welcoming the guests, most of who were young children, and repeating how "perfect" and "beautiful" the weather was despite the rainy forecast, the POTUS went on to awkwardly struggle to describe the White House itself, all while standing right in front of it.
"I want to thank the White House Historical Association and all of the people that work so hard with Melania, with everybody, to keep this incredible house or building or whatever you want to call it - because there really is no name for it; it is special," he said. "We keep it in tip-top shape. We call it sometimes tippy-top shape. And it's a great, great place." Um . . . what?! If you don't believe that he actually uttered this stream of consciousness, just watch the speech unfold in all its cringeworthiness ahead.
An honor to host the Annual @WhiteHouse Easter Egg Roll! pic.twitter.com/bOMJRK8FyK
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 2, 2018
The bunny next to Trump truly had the most appropriate facial expression during the train wreck of an address. Needless to say, as soon as the Trump's Easter Egg Roll speech was broadcast, Twitter users of the world had a lot to say about it. I mean, can you blame them?
Grab Your BFFs and Float on This Massive Crown Like the Queens You Are
Sometimes, being queen for a day isn't good enough - but what about feeling like one for the whole Summer? With Funboy's new Royal Crown Island Float ($269), you can float around on the crown you deserve, never having to disembark from your throne seat thanks to built-in cupholders (for your royal Rosé) and supportive backrests.
The massive float is over nine feet wide, leaving room for you and up to five friends to embrace your inner Meghan Markles - or Prince Harrys - at the pool in serious style. We've got plenty of ideas for how you could best utilize the Royal Crown Island Float during your Spring and Summer leisure time, but here are a few of our favorites:
- If you feel like drinking, play a floating version of King's Cup
- Listen to the audiobook version of Game of Thrones at the pool (and be happy you're in a floating crown, not a seaworthy Iron Throne!)
- Play pool karaoke with only songs by Queen and Prince
- Shoot your own music video cover for "Royals" by Lorde
Shop this crowning achievement of a float below, then check out some of the other awesome, inflatable pool accessories you can find online!
18 Slang Words That Will Make You Sound Like an Old Fart
As a Millennial in my 20s, it's hard to believe that my generation is slowly becoming dated, especially when it comes to our slang. Everything we used to think was supercool, like playing Oregon Trail, is now seen as archaic and lame by the generation after us. Since we're not entirely sure if we'll ever get a handle on using the cool new terms like "sus" and "stan," we're going to take a trip down slang memory lane and revisit our favorites. Do you still say any of the words on this list? If so, it might make you sound old, but hopefully it stokes you up and makes you raise the roof with your homies.
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