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.
jeudi 10 mai 2018
12 Tips to Make Your Instagram Stories Super Fierce
Don't worry if you're someone who's lost in the dark wondering what else you can do with Instagram Stories. Learning how to use Instagram Stories is pretty easy, but playing with the different features makes it a lot more fun. Instagram Stories is quickly catching on, even though a lot of people think it's exactly like Snapchat. Ahead, check out some tips to see what you can do to make your Instagram Story more fun.
14 Amazing Alternatives to Netflix and Chill
Over hearing about Netflix and chill? Don't worry, you're not alone, seeing as how people are coming up with all sorts of alternatives. No matter if you're celebrating Valentine's Day or planning for the day you're no longer part of the forever alone club, here are some choices that might align a little more with your interests. Hopefully someday someone will ask you to partake.
These Cable "Bites" Have Taken Over the Internet, and They're Adorable!
The latest Twitter obsession is here, and it comes in the shape of an adorable animal. The Japanese brand Dreams has created cable "bites," which are just cute accessories you can use to protect your cable while you charge your smartphone. The accessory helps prevent the outer part of the charging cable from falling apart from regular use. It happens to the best of us, right?
Sadly, they don't ship internationally, but you can find select ones at places like Amazon, PiQ, and Urban Outfitters. According to the Dreams website, the "bites" are specifically made for iPhones. You can purchase different sets that come with animals like a tiger, hippopotamus, chameleon, shark, and so many more. Keep scrolling to see some of the ones that are still out there before they completely sell out.
The Best iPhone 8 Plus Cases of 2018
If there's one thing we can say for certain, it's that no new iPhone is complete without the perfect case. But at the same time, actually finding the perfect case can be one of the most tizzy-inducing experiences of our modern lives. But never fear! We've gone through all of the best cases currently available for purchase and found all of the ones that are unquestionably worth the money (and will jazz up your style). We'll be continuing to add to this list as the year goes on, but ahead, find all the cases we're certain you'll fall in love with - and be sure to check back to see what else 2018 has in store for your iPhone 8 Plus!
Whoa! These Marvel Images Are Trippy AF
Any Marvel fan can tell you just how much they love the franchise in any form - especially when it comes to full-scale illustrations of their favorite characters. One artist turned his portraits of Marvel characters into GIFs that are so subtle, you can barely tell they're moving images.
The artist, Mike Mitchell, originally created these pieces of art for a show that ran last year at the Mondo Gallery in Texas. They are completely stunning and definitely capture his feelings for Marvel. "This has easily been the most ambitious project I've ever taken on, and it's due in part to my love for their universe; which is fictional by definition, but real in my mind and in the minds of others," he said to Mondo Tees. It definitely touches fans, considering Mitchell's artwork first made the rounds on Reddit in 2014 and was rising on Imgur a few months ago.
Look ahead and become entranced by these amazing Marvel GIFs - you won't be able to look away.
2 Easy Ways to Find Your iPhone When It's on Silent
Like keys and pretty much every other item in your life, you can easily misplace your iPhone somewhere in your house. While you could normally just have a friend or someone call it, sometimes your iPhone will be on silent - and good luck attempting to find it that way. Thankfully, we found two ways to get the job done when the ringer isn't on.
- Use Find My iPhone - Go to iCloud.com on a desktop or laptop, sign in, and click on "Find My iPhone." The website will show the location of your phone, in case you don't remember where you actually left it. If you already know where your iPhone is, tap the dot on your iPhone; a box should appear with three options. Click the "Play Sound" button and, regardless of whether your iPhone is on silent or vibrate, a pinging sound will ring loudly. Ta-da!
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- Get a speaker or boom box - First, call your phone. After that, grab a speaker with long cords and walk around the house playing any sort of tune. If you're lucky, the speaker will start to make weird noises, and when those get louder, it means you're closer to your phone. The less loud and frequent the sounds are, the farther away you're moving from your phone.
Hopefully, now you'll always be able to find your iPhone, no matter which seat cushion it might be under. Just remember - always keep "Find My iPhone" turned on or else you might as well break out a flip phone and start using that again.
6 Documentaries That Will Shut Down Any Climate-Change Denier
Given President Donald Trump's denial of climate change and his recent action of pulling the US out of the Paris Climate Accord, now is probably an apt time to educate yourself on the environment. It's even more important when you realize that the present Environmental Protection Agency director is a climate science denier - and he's quite open about it.
Global warming is neither an engineered fallacy nor really even debated at this point. There is a broad consensus in the scientific community that climate change is occurring and heavily accelerated by humans.
An easy way to get educated on the matter? By watching a documentary, of course. We've compiled a list of environmental documentaries you can learn a lot from. Read on to see.
41 Things That Prove Tech in the '90s Was Bomb.com
Shame on the people who make fun of '90s tech (it's not like we've ever done that before - ever). Seriously, who could question how great the Discman or AIM was? For the ultimate tech throwback, take a look at the gadgets, games, and software that we loved most from the decade that brought us Spice Girls and Super Nintendo.
People Are Using Snapchat Filters on Their Pets, and the Results Are Glorious
Spend a lot of time playing around with Snapchat's filters? You might think you're a pro, but you're not really one until you use the filters on your pets.
We're not talking the filters that just change the colors of the photo, either. We're talking the ones meant for selfies that either make you vomit rainbows or shoot light beams from your eyes. Move over, Snapcats - your moment is over. Say hello to the new kings and queens of Snapchat, who come alive with these filters.
Check out our favorite ones ahead, and don't be afraid to try it yourself. After that, be sure to master every Snapchat trick in the book.
This 245-Day Cruise Visits 59 Countries and Costs More Than a Brand-New Tesla
Some people might look at $100,000 and consider putting a down-payment on a house. But if that's not quite your style - perhaps you already have a house, or you're afraid of commitment - then there's a cruise that's made for you. Meet the Viking Ultimate World Cruise, a 245-day expedition that visits 59 countries, 113 ports of call, and every continent except Antarctica. According to Condé Nast Traveler, the 930-passenger cruise will take place from August 2019 until May 2020.
You can read the full itinerary of stops here, and it certainly sounds like a world traveler's dream come true. But the price tag is a hefty one; pricing starts at around $93K per passenger for the trip. Currently, this includes perks like business-class airfare to and from London (the start and end port), a liquor package, unlimited WiFi, and complimentary Visa service. If you feel like this might be the trip for you, you can read up on the full experience on Viking's website.
If you're considering the trip, here are some of our suggested traits before embarking:
- No fear of spending eight months with the same group of (at least initially) strangers
- No history of motion sickness
- No history of homesickness
- Sensible packing skills
Bon voyage!
After Taking a Look at Demi Lovato's Sexy Plunging Swimsuit, We Need Our Sunglasses Too
Demi Lovato doesn't play around when swimsuits (or sunglasses) are involved! The 25-year-old singer posted a sexy snap to Instagram on May 9 to promote her collection with Diff Eyewear, but I'm sorry, what's that suit I see? Her orange deep-cut halterneck swimsuit is brighter than the sun, so yes I will need a pair of shades, thank you! Add a floral pattern that pops and you have a recipe for the perfect Summer one-piece. She's no stranger to a low-cut style or a sultry halterneck suit, and we'll gladly accept all the pool-time inspiration she'll offer. Ahead, see suits similar to Demi's and shop our favorite picks.
The Best Dressed Women at the Met Gala Didn't Shy Away From the Theme
Most stars arrived at the 2018 Met Gala fully prepared to celebrate the "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" theme. But the six women below really dressed the part, because they didn't just choose intricate headpieces or designers at random. Instead, they wove a narrative with their clothing, working religion - however subtly - into their own personal style for the night. Kendall Jenner's Off-White look was sexy but graceful (that's her signature), whereas Rihanna's Margiela ensemble stole the spotlight - and she loves a good "look at me" moment. Ahead, count down our best dressed and choose your own fashion hero.
Kendall Jenner Was Buckled Into Her Shoes, but Her Dress Floated Up, Up, and Away
Kendall Jenner was one of the best dressed women at the 2018 Met Gala. She was one of the only stars to show up in pants, but Kendall's were so long, they trailed behind her as she walked. But Kendall's Off-White look was made of chiffon - so lightweight, it reminded us of a cloud. Her afterparty dress, also Off-White C/O Virgil Abloh, followed suit. Just like her formfitting red carpet look, Kendall's ruched minidress spoke to her signature style. It was leggy, it featured slinky straps, and it made them all look twice.
The "pattern" on the dress featured angels floating through the heavens, and Kendall brought all the edge necessary with her chunky chain Tiffany & Co. jewels and wiry shoes that buckled around her feet. These were courtesy of Jimmy Choo, though we do wonder when and if Kendall slipped into these high top "Air Jordan 1" sneakers. According to an Instagram snap, the sporty kicks were part of Kendall's lineup for the evening, and we wouldn't blink an eye if she rocked them with this exact mini on the streets.
Taylor Swift's Tour Costumes Include Sequins, Sequins, and More Sequins
Just in case you didn't know: Taylor Swift is on tour for her album Reputation. Little by little, the singer teased information about her concert on Instagram. In her final update, Taylor gave hints about her costumes, and now we can finally see them. She's got eight costume changes lined up for the show, and they're all as glittery and fabulous as all the outfits we've seen her perform in before. Ahead, check out some of Taylor's moments in fringe and sequins so far. Oh, and don't forget to get your merch, too!
The Easiest Pieces to Pack and Wear on a Cruise For Smoothest Possible Sailing
Packing for a cruise can be tough. You need dressy items for the ship's formal nights, casualwear for island-hopping excursions, and plenty of Instagrammable swimsuits for lounging by the pool. Unfortunately, cruise ships have notoriously small rooms, so there isn't space to store your entire wardrobe. Clearly, packing smart is so key.
Whether it's a lightweight jacket that will go with everything or a reversible bathing suit, make sure your suitcase is filled with items that can be easily mixed and matched to be reworn in different ways. Packing versatile pieces will not only keep your tiny space less cluttered, it will also save space in your suitcase for plenty of souvenir shopping.
From comfy travel sets to sleek swimwear and stylish accessories, we've rounded up the items you need to grab to ensure smooth sailing on your next cruise.
When We Say Ariana Grande's Met Gala Gown Is a Work of Art, We Mean That Literally
Ariana Grande's lavish gown for the 2018 Met Gala was quite literally a work of art. The 24-year-old "No Tears Left to Cry" singer wore a princess-style Vera Wang gown with a romantic tulle overlay, a matching bow hair accessory, and elegant Butani diamonds.
If the gown's print looks familiar, that's because it's Michelangelo's famous fresco "The Last Judgment," which covers the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. So don't say she didn't stick to the "Heavenly Bodies" theme! Ahead, see more pictures of Ariana's dress that are sure to delight art history buffs and fashion fans alike.
Selena Gomez's Supersheer Met Gala Dress Has Us in a Spell
Hold onto your chairs, because Selena Gomez made it her mission to stun at the 2018 Met Gala. For fashion's biggest night of the year, Selena opted for a white gown from Coach that showed off her toned arms. Apparently inspired by Queen Esther, her ethereal tiered gown featured lace accents and a sheer skirt that seemed like it went on for miles.
Selena's dress came with a plunging necklace, and the bodice was lined with mini floral embellishments. To fit the night's theme, "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," Selena accessorized with a mini cross necklace, and somewhere on the dress, her favorite bible verse is embroidered. She finished her look off with a diamond bracelet, dangly earrings, and a personalized Coach handbag. Read on to see all angles of her look ahead.
You Haven't Seen the Met Gala Until You've Witnessed These 17 Moments
When they say, "Blink and you'll miss it!" they must be talking about the Met Gala. In a night of major stars in the year's most major designs, an iconic style moment can easily pass you by. Hey, they don't call it the Oscars of fashion for nothing!
Fortunately, our eyes don't rest when they're on red carpet watch. So we've gathered the must-see moments that will have you covered for all the water-cooler chatter (which we like to think is still a thing). From Rihanna's papal pearls to Katy Perry's flight of fancy, check out these 17 all-important style moments.
Mother May I . . . Buy All of These Spring Essentials? Good, 'Cause I'm Gonna
By the time May comes, we absolutely refuse to layer any longer. Underneath these Spring jackets, we're wearing gorgeous lightweight, ruffly tops and dresses paired with functional mules, sandals, or other shoes of the season, like cowboy boots. Aside from these basics, we'll be swimsuit shopping well into August (hey, maybe even September!), so you can find plenty of sophisticated yet flirty maillots on this month's wish list too. Read on for all the pieces we simply can't resist this time of year.
Is It Payday Yet? These 37 Cute Shoes Are All Under $50 - Let's Shop!
This year, designers have really stepped up their game when it comes to statement-making shoes. There are so many bold, fun options that it's hard to choose. Whether you need a new pair for a formal event or to wear everyday with your distressed jeans, we've got you covered. We chose our favorite affordable options under $50. With prices this low, you might need to buy more than one pair!
Is It Payday Yet? These 38 Spring Dresses Will Get You So Many Compliments
We love the pastel hues, floral motifs, and airy fabrics that come along with Spring fashion. There are so many lovely dresses out this season that come in a variety of patterns and silhouettes. We curated a list of our favorite options at a wide variety of price points. These designs are ideal for occasions, every day, and all the other events in between. Shop through the tempting choices, and get yourself something new.
Kirsten Dunst's Dreamy, Bohemian Style Is Literally What Maternity Style Is All About
Kirsten Dunst is known for her quirky sense of style and her penchant for indie films. (How dreamy was her style in The Virgin Suicides?) Since announcing her pregnancy in a gorgeous Rodarte portrait series, the actress has proven that her maternity style is worth talking about.
Now that the actress has given birth, we decided to take a look back at her best maternity style moments. Throughout her pregnancy, Kirsten showed off her dreamy sartorial sensibilities in one romantic look after another. When she wasn't wearing a flowy, printed maxi dress, she was somehow making overalls look cool and not childish. Ahead, we've gathered her best pregnancy looks for you to get inspired.
Gigi Hadid's Afterparty Legging-Boots Are Rose Gold and Fa-Fa-Fa-Fabulous
The 2018 Met Gala theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," and Gigi Hadid interpreted the theme perfectly in her skintight custom Versace gown that was inspired by the stained-glass windows of a church. The showstopping gown hugged her curves in all the right places and even featured a thigh-high slit that put her long legs on display. Once the gala ended, Gigi continued to show off her heavenly body in an insanely chic afterparty look.
The supermodel flashed her killer abs in a white crop top that she wore under an intricately designed rose gold Versace suit, which looked eerily similar to another pink suit she wore back in June 2017. Gigi completed the sleek look with matching booties, a pink crushed velvet Tyler Ellis bag, and dazzling jewels. While Gigi's exact designer shoes are not available, read through to shop similar rose gold booties.
The 14 Sexiest Red Swimsuits of 2018 Might Make the Internet Shut Down
If you're on the hunt for a statement-making swimsuit, consider something in red. The powerful hue will make you feel both sexy and confident. We rounded up our favorite bikinis and one-pieces in the hot color for you to shop through. They come in an array of price points and styles, so you're bound to discover something that catches your eye. You'll want to be prepared for any last-minute getaways or vacations, so you'd better snag these popular must haves ASAP. Take a look! You'll feel amazing - that's a promise. Make sure to show these designs to your BFF too!
These Met Gala Jewels Are So Stunning, You Might Want to Sit Down
While A-listers spent a lot of time choosing ensembles to fit this year's controversial Met Gala theme, they also put a lot of thought into their accessories. Celebrities jazzed up their red carpet dresses by adding plenty of head-turning jewels. We're talking about jewelry that was so beautiful, we needed sunglasses just to admire it from a distance. From Rihanna's Cartier necklace to Gigi Hadid's $5 million worth of Lorraine Schwartz jewels, stars went all out when it came to their bling. Keep reading to have a look at all of the jaw-dropping accessories from this year's Met Gala.
Zara's Hottest Summer Swimwear Is Here and All Under $50 - Seriously!
We don't need to tell you twice why Zara is one of our favorite places to shop. Filled with on-trend and superaffordable finds, we're definitely obsessed. While the store has beautiful dresses, chic shoes, and enviable accessories, it also carries some seriously stylish swimwear. We did the hard work for you and rounded up our favorite finds this season. To make it even better, these picks are all under $50 - so you can get more than one (or three!). From polka-dot one-pieces to underwire bikini tops, take a look.
Kim Kardashian Put Her Statuesque Curves on Full Display in This Dress From 1995
Looks like Kim Kardashian might not be done with the Met Gala's heavenly bodies theme after all. For one of the fashion industry's biggest events of the year, the 37-year-old mogul looked like she was dripping in gold in a Versace dress and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.
Kim wore a radiant yellow vintage Versace corset dress with a thigh-high slit to a Business of Fashion dinner in New York City alongside her sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner and her mom, Kris. Her shoes perfectly matched the color of the dress, and she even kept her manicure from the night before intact.
Kim revealed on Twitter that it's one of her "all-time favorite looks" and that the dress was actually remade for her from a Spring 1995 Versace collection. Keep scrolling to see Kim shine bright like a ray of sunshine.
Holy Sh*t, Blake Lively Practically Packed Up Ryan Reynolds and Put Him in Her Met Gala Clutch
Step 1: Freak out over Blake Lively's insanely glamorous Met Gala gown. Step 2: Take a breather and bask in the gorgeousness that is her regal beauty, and see if you can handle it better than the photographers at the Met Gala could. Step 3: Go on with your day and try to accept that even though Blake Lively didn't bring hubby Ryan Reynolds as her date, she made up for it with every single detail of her outfit being on-theme.
OK, now, take a step back and prepare to have your mind blown, because it turns out that the Met Gala veteran actually did bring Ryan with her, and not only him, she brought the whole family right in the palm of her hand! For the "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" theme, Blake carried a custom Judith Leiber handbag emblazoned with a "Reynolds" family crest matching perfectly to her Versace gown.
If you look a little closer you can see the initials B, R, J, and I, for Ryan and their daughters James, 3, and Ines, 1. Yep, it doesn't get any sweeter than that, and we can't believe the subtle family tribute almost slipped right past us. Read on for a closer look at the heartwarming bag.
10 Vegan Ingredients You Should Have in Your Pantry at All Times
We've all been there: you're finally home after a super busy day at the office. You're not just hungry - you're ravenous, and wishing more than anything in the world that your mom (or a personal chef) would magically appear to whip you up a healthy home-cooked dinner while you collapse on the couch to watch TV. You're tempted to order in - but do you really want to sabotage your diet (and your budget) and overdose on salt and fat just to wake up with a takeout hangover? Probably not. Especially if you are trying your damnedest to stick to a healthy, vegan diet. Read on for 10 vegan pantry staples that will save you from ordering takeout.
All You Need Is a Resistance Band For This Killer Full-Body Barre Workout
We love lifting weights and doing various HIIT cardio workouts, but it's good to mix it up and do some barre workouts in order to lengthen and tone your whole body from head to toe. Andrea Rogers, founder of international barre studio Xtend Barre, shared an exclusive full-body workout with POPSUGAR that you can do pretty much anywhere as long as you have a resistance band handy. You'll work every inch of your body and feel both strong and flexible after you're done. And the best part is all you need is one resistance band.
Go through all five movements ahead, and do two to three rounds of the whole circuit for a solid workout.
Dill-Flavored Ice Cream Is Here to Make All Your Pregnancy Craving Dreams Come True
When I was pregnant with my son, the one question I got more than any other was about pickles and ice cream. Since those two very different foods are notoriously craved by pregnant women, it makes sense that someone would find a way to deliciously combine them. Enter Little Baby's Ice Cream, an artisanal ice cream parlor in Philadelphia.
Officially titled Cucumber Dill, this incredible flavor is only available when cucumbers are in season and is made both with a superpremium dairy base and its own vegan coconut cream base. Using fresh cucumbers and dill, Little Baby's Ice Cream mastered the sweet and tangy mix, and it also just looks incredibly refreshing. So whether you're suffering from classic pregnancy cravings or just really like to try weird foods, this dessert is definitely for you.
mercredi 9 mai 2018
Are Spiralized Veggies Actually Worth the Hype? A Pasta Enthusiast Investigates
Erin, 25, addicted to pasta. Thanks to my upbringing in a large Italian family, my obsession with carbs started early on and has very much carried over into my adult life. My idea of a good dinner involves a big-ass bowl of pasta with plenty of garlic and parmesan cheese, so I've been totally hesitant to get on board with the increasingly popular spiralized-veggie trend.
Yes, I love zucchini, but zucchini posing as noodles? Can't fool me. But just when I tell myself I can get by on an 80-percent-pasta diet, Adult Erin chimes in and reminds Young Erin that she can't (well, can, but really shouldn't). So, somewhat begrudgingly, I decided to try zoodles to see if I approve of all the hype. Here's how it went.
First thing's first - using a spiralizer is FUN. You get to watch a stumpy vegetable transform into tons of twirly strands, and it's pretty mesmerizing. I used the Inspiralizer by the founder of the blog Inspiralized, but you can use any spiralizer or even spiralize veggies without a spiralizer, too. What I liked about this tool is it suctions to your counterop to prevent slipping, and you don't have to handle the different blades with your hands. You turn a nob to choose the thickness you want (ribbon noodles, fettucine, linguine, or spaghetti), and you just use your hand to turn a handle as the zucchini pushes forward into the blade, and zoodles start to spill out on the other side.
After successfully spiralizing three zucchinis, I took a moment to admire my handywork. Check out all those twirly strands of veggies! Notice how I am not calling these "noodles," because that's just sacrilege.
Then comes the cooking. The perk of cooking zoodles is you don't have to wait around for a big pot of water to boil. All you have to do is sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil and salt until they're softened, which takes about five minutes. This is the closest thing you'll get to mimicking the al dente texture of perfectly cooked pasta.
Once the zucchini is cooked, you can customize it just like you would any pasta dish. I added leftover slow-cooker bolognese sauce and topped mine with parmesan cheese and a little fresh basil. After marveling at the final product, I decided I was indeed excited to try it. And guess what? I really, really liked it! The hearty sauce rounded out the vegetable-ness of the zucchini, and getting the satisfaction of twirling the zoodles around my fork almost tricked me into thinking I was eating spaghetti. The best part was the difference in how I felt after eating a whole bowl of zoodles versus actual noodles: no bloated feeling! No carb crash! I was full and satisfied, and I didn't want to immediately take a nap. Also, I decided zoodles are definitely better than the other impasta (get it?), spaghetti squash. I am . . . officially . . . on the zoodles train. I'm definitely going to make this again. But I'm just not going to call it pasta.
How to Decorate Based on Your Hogwarts House
One of the most magical moments of the Harry Potter series is during Harry's first night at Hogwarts when he is sorted into Gryffindor house. Using the ancient Sorting Hat (which senses its wearer's thoughts, ambitions, and personality to decide their rightful place within Hogwarts), every student at J.K. Rowling's school of witchcraft and wizardry is sorted into one of four magical houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin. Where do you belong? Whether you find out through Rowling's own Pottermore Sorting Hat quiz or simply perform some inner soul searching to determine your true Hogwarts home, the house with which you relate most strongly certainly says a lot about your personality.
Because each Hogwarts house is totally unique, it only makes sense that house members would have widely varied taste in home decor. Drawing on traits, colors, and famed members of the houses, we've compiled decor that perfectly suits students from each. Find out the ideal style for your magical personality here!
31 Activities That Will Make You Happier Every Day
Having a rough day? We've been there. Luckily, there are plenty of fast and easy ways to boost your mood. These quick solutions will make you feel better than ever no matter what you're going through. Just reading these joyous activities will remind you of all the wonderful things in life. Give one a try!
30+ Mouthwatering Mediterranean Meals
There's no denying the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and the fact that the dishes taste so delicious is a major bonus. You might not be able to travel to the waters of Greece or Italy, but you can still get the yum factor right at home with these recipes rich in nuts, vegetables, beans, olive oil, and fish. From tzatziki to tahini, here are 37 recipes that will help you master Mediterranean cuisine.
- Additional reporting by Brinton Parker
35 Facts You Learned in School That Are Completely Wrong
If you really think back to everything you learned as a kid, you'll probably realize how inaccurate a lot of the stuff was. Whether it was taught directly in the classroom or told by your parents, much of what we've always assumed as common knowledge is flawed. Like the whole Thanksgiving thing, obviously, plus a list of other lies many of us have believed our whole lives. Prepare to be surprised by the 35 false facts ahead.
The Best Frozen Entrees From Trader Joe's, Hands Down
In case you haven't ever explored the magical place that is the frozen aisle at Trader Joe's, let us enlighten you. There's no shame in turning to frozen meals when you have zero time to cook, but if you're going to do it, you should know what's actually worth buying. Keep reading to find out which frozen meals POPSUGAR editors pick up and why, and look for them on your next Trader Joe's run.
10 Secrets All Successful Couples Know About Money
Money. It's a topic so personal we have trouble talking about it with our significant others.
One study from the University of Wisconsin - Madison looked at 100 married couples and concluded that "compared to nonmoney issues, marital conflicts about money were more pervasive, problematic, and recurrent, and remained unresolved." In order to avoid that pitfall, you must prioritize open and honest communication and create good financial habits as a couple. Once you set them up, these habits will help you manage financial stress, one of the biggest threats to a relationship. You'll also get another benefit: the financial means to achieve your dreams as a couple.
Couples who are "good with money" know that proactively managing your household budget is good for your bank account and relationship. They've overcome the pitfalls of debt, navigated setting up joint banking accounts, and figured out their tax situations. If you want to be like them, here are 10 tips we've gathered from personal finance experts. Read on for things all couples who are good with money do.
1. They Openly Discuss Small Purchases
It's never too early to build healthy communication around money. "Early on in a relationship, start talking about money before you need to," says Kimmie Greene, a consumer spending expert for the online money-managing tool Mint. You can do this by discussing your ideal budget for a weekend away or by sharing what you plan to do with a bonus check. Talking about small purchases is easier and will help prepare you when it comes time to spend on big-ticket items together, like a wedding or a house. It will also give you insight into how your partner thinks about money.
"Raising awareness at an early point, even prior to partners combining their finances, may prevent future cycles of negatively handled and unresolved conflicts concerning money later in the relationship," concludes the University of Wisconsin paper. Once you've been together for a while, keep this up by letting your partner know when you plan to splurge on concert tickets or a new purse, even if it's with "your" money and not from your joint account. Being upfront about small purchases helps build trust.
2. They Set Specific Goals For Big Purchases
You need to agree on shared priorities. As a couple, try to answer questions about major future expenses: luxury car or used car? Private school or public school? House in the suburbs or city condo? If you communicate and compromise on the big things up front, you'll avoid blowups and misunderstandings later. There's usually room for competing goals, as long as you plan ahead. Rod Griffin, director of public education at credit-monitoring site Experian, also notes that "working toward a common goal can help you align when it comes to spending."
3. They Are Honest About Their Flaws
In addition to setting your financial goals, you need to discuss what obstacles will get in the way of achieving them. Be honest about your financial "flaws" as soon as you can. These can include credit card debt, student loan payments, or a bad credit score. Experts agree that this will help avoid surprises.
If you're still relatively early in your relationship, tax season might be a good time to bring up the uncomfortable topic. For example, you can share your student loans by mentioning the tax credit you will get. If your partner brings up a red flag, try not to judge. Instead, share your expectations and encourage them to come up with a game plan to address the issue.
4. They Celebrate Milestones
You'll be old and gray by the time your pay off a mortgage or dip into that 401k. So how do you stay focused today? Set interim savings goals and celebrate success along the way. "Looking for a new home and just reached 25 percent of your savings goal? Take a date in your new neighborhood to try a hot new restaurant," suggests Greene. She believes these small celebrations can make your savings goals more real and encourage you to keep going.
5. They Focus on Saving Goals, Not Spending Limits
"As long as you're meeting your savings goals, whether you have a latte or a shoe habit may not matter."
Consider flipping the script on your financial conversations. Instead of talking about how much you spend each month, talk out how much you save. It frames things in a positive light. You can simply aim to increase the amount you save each month or work toward a specific dollar amount. Greene explains, "This helps to alleviate pressures that can build up and cause stress around individual expenses. As long as you're meeting your savings goals, whether you have a latte or a shoe habit may not matter as much."
6. They Don't Always Split Things 50-50
It's a good idea to set up a joint account for joint expenses. Just don't assume you will go 50-50 into the account. Greene has this suggestion: "Talk to each other about the expenses you share together and consider your incomes to decide whether or not you pay into that joint account equally or in percentages weighted on overall income." For example, if you partner makes 25 percent more than you, he or she should contribute 25 percent more to the account each month.
This arrangement will help ease tensions that arise when one person feels overwhelmed by higher expenses because they make less money. As your relationship progresses, you may consider blending all your accounts. But the transparent and fair approach you took while keeping things semi-separate will serve you well into the future.
7. They Both Stay Checked In on Their Finances
What if one person is just "better" with money? That's OK! Any successful relationship lets each person play to their strengths. It's fine to let one person in the couple take the lead - as long as you set up regular check-ins. The University of Wisconsin study found that our personal feelings of worth are affected by "the perceived capacity to engage in decision making about money." In other words, we feel more valued in the couple when the household finances are treated as a partnership.
Greene has a tip for taking a collaborative approach, recommending that each person have login information for your joint accounts or finance monitoring services. "Consider setting up a joint email account for logging in to your preferred personal finance app," she says. That way both of you will have visibility into the notifications and account updates. "This helps make both people accountable for where you stand with your money, removing any frustrations that might crop up if just one person knows the latest."
8. They Schedule a Time to Review Monthly Spending
Balancing the checkbook once a month used to provide the perfect opportunity to review spending and saving. Couples no longer need to go through the tedious task, but they should still schedule a date to talk money. Griffin recommends planning "Finance Fridays" with your partner, "setting aside time one Friday each month to check your bank accounts and credit cards, as well as your credit score and report, together." Throw something on your Google Calendars so you don't miss the date, and use it as a forum to discuss your saving goals and to celebrate your small victories.
9. They Know Their Tax Situation
Once you're married - or considering marriage - it's time to think about your tax situation as a couple. Those who are good with money know how to best leverage their circumstances. "Generally, couples who file married filing jointly may be able to take advantage of what is known as the 'marriage bonus' since tax rates are typically lower for couples filing married filing jointly," Lisa Greene-Lewis, a tax expert for TurboTax. Married couples can often claim more tax deductions and credits when filing jointly, like education tax credits worth up to $2,500, the earned income tax credit worth up to $6,269 for a family with three or more kids, or the Child and Dependent Care Credit worth up to $2,100 for two or more kids.
Greene-Lewis suggests taking the time to run your numbers through both scenarios: married filing jointly or married filing separately. TurboTax, for example, will give you numbers for both.
10. They Use Financial Tools
There are a ton of financial planning apps and websites that will track your progress. Turning to third-party services help check your assumptions about where your money is going. They are also a tool for better communication. Greene explains that using an online financial management service can take the stress out of financial conversations, "boiling them down to the facts." That can be particularly helpful when one person in the relationship is emotionally attached to a particular decision. She explains, "We often hear, 'Mint saved my marriage,' as it is easier to blame Mint than your spouse for that new TV or vacation that isn't going to happen this month." And when things go right, let yourselves take the credit as a couple!
30 Breathtaking North American Natural Wonders You Have to See Before You Die
When it comes to traveling, Americans often feel like they haven't seen enough, despite the number of foreign countries they may be lucky enough to have already visited. You might be determined to visit the famed Seven Wonders of the World, but did you know there are actually dozens and dozens of natural wonders to see right here in North America? From the Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park to Hubbard Glacier in Alaska and Canada to Baja California Sur, you could easily take a road trip (or two or three) across our great continent, never ceasing to be impressed. Have a look at this gallery and start planning your next semilocal vacation.
Sparkling, Seltzer, Soda: A Primer on Carbonated Water
Soda water, seltzer, club soda, sparkling water, mineral water: there are so many different fizzy waters out there. Are they all the same thing?
Carbonated water - water into which carbon dioxide has been dissolved - is a broad term that encompasses all fizzy waters; it's used interchangeably with sparkling water and soda water (a prewar term for the same thing). Within this category, there are several distinctions: seltzer, club soda, and mineral water.
Seltzer and club soda have both been artificially produced by passing pressurized carbon dioxide through water, but while seltzer contains no added ingredients or flavorings, club soda contains additives such as table salt, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium bicarbonate to add a slightly salty flavor.
In contrast, an effervescent mineral water such as Perrier or San Pellegrino is water that contains naturally occurring carbonation and minerals. Since it's bottled directly from a natural source, it tends to be pricier and has a more delicate effervescence than other carbonated waters. For these reasons, it's typically enjoyed alone, rather than used as a drink mixer.
How Parisians Do Small-Space Living
It seems there's nothing the French can't do stylishly - even decorate a micro living space. Parisian blogger and designer Éléonore Bridge turned her 377-square-foot apartment in the 11th arrondissement of Paris into a haven of inspired design. She describes the space as "a little nest - warm and happy - where I make the rules." Éléonore has redone the entire layout since moving in three years ago, and she continues to experiment with new ways to make the space better, most recently by teaming up with Ikea.
8 Last-Minute Mother's Day Gifts You Can Get in a Hurry - All From Amazon Prime
Did you wait until the last minute to snag a Mother's Day gift? Don't worry, we're here to help. There are plenty of thoughtful products that will ship to you fast. We chose some excellent options you can order on Amazon Prime - these presents will arrive to your doorstep in as few as two days. Take a look!
12 Cheap Amazon Prime Gems For Foodies - Everything Is Under $29
If you've ever gotten lost in Amazon's beautiful stream of retro kitchen goodies, especially those that every food-lovin' person needs (or, you know, wants to put on their Instagram), you're not alone. Whether you dream of the day you'll own a multipurpose stovetop/coffee maker/toaster oven appliance, or just wish you had some oven mitts that looked more like bear claws, we found 12 kitchen products you can't beat, all available on Amazon Prime. Look ahead, and prepare to swoon.
Michelle Obama Just Perfectly Summed Up the Hypocrisy of the GOP
If anyone is going to expertly shred the current administration without so much as a single mention of our president's name, you can bet that it's going to be Michelle Obama.
Speaking at a Sept. 22 tech conference in Utah, the former first lady answered questions in an hour-long moderated conversation that shed light on her true feelings about the current state of American politics. As initially reported by the Salt Lake City Tribune, Mrs. Obama took the opportunity to address the flaws she sees in the nationalist, "America-first" rhetoric that's played a central role in Donald Trump's rise to power. "We live in a big country and a big world," she said before noting that her husband's White House was one built on hope while the current administration is one built on fear.
Obama also expertly called out the hypocrisy that often surrounds the conservative discourse on health care. "You can't just want to help someone in a hurricane and not make sure they can go to the doctor when they're sick," she said to an audience over 1,000 people. But while it's refreshing to hear Michelle Obama's take on our current political climate, she also made it very clear that she's not interested in a run for office anytime soon. When a member of the crowd shouted out that Obama should run for president, she was quick to shut it down. "That's still shocking. Like, what?" Obama said, adding, "Are you kidding me? No."
Even if Michelle Obama isn't ready to run for president yet, we can only hope that she throws her wit and sass into helping to get one of these highly qualified women into office in 2020.
Sparkling, Seltzer, Soda: A Primer on Carbonated Water
Soda water, seltzer, club soda, sparkling water, mineral water: there are so many different fizzy waters out there. Are they all the same thing?
Carbonated water - water into which carbon dioxide has been dissolved - is a broad term that encompasses all fizzy waters; it's used interchangeably with sparkling water and soda water (a prewar term for the same thing). Within this category, there are several distinctions: seltzer, club soda, and mineral water.
Seltzer and club soda have both been artificially produced by passing pressurized carbon dioxide through water, but while seltzer contains no added ingredients or flavorings, club soda contains additives such as table salt, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium bicarbonate to add a slightly salty flavor.
In contrast, an effervescent mineral water such as Perrier or San Pellegrino is water that contains naturally occurring carbonation and minerals. Since it's bottled directly from a natural source, it tends to be pricier and has a more delicate effervescence than other carbonated waters. For these reasons, it's typically enjoyed alone, rather than used as a drink mixer.
How Parisians Do Small-Space Living
It seems there's nothing the French can't do stylishly - even decorate a micro living space. Parisian blogger and designer Éléonore Bridge turned her 377-square-foot apartment in the 11th arrondissement of Paris into a haven of inspired design. She describes the space as "a little nest - warm and happy - where I make the rules." Éléonore has redone the entire layout since moving in three years ago, and she continues to experiment with new ways to make the space better, most recently by teaming up with Ikea.
8 Last-Minute Mother's Day Gifts You Can Get in a Hurry - All From Amazon Prime
Did you wait until the last minute to snag a Mother's Day gift? Don't worry, we're here to help. There are plenty of thoughtful products that will ship to you fast. We chose some excellent options you can order on Amazon Prime - these presents will arrive to your doorstep in as few as two days. Take a look!
Is It Safe to Eat Raw Oats (as in Overnight Oats)?
You fell hard for the overnight oats craze, and we don't blame you for becoming completely obsessed (we did too!) Overnight oats taste amazing because you can come up with all kinds of delicious flavor combinations from chocolate coconut almond, to banana cashew, to vanilla almond raspberry. They're easy to throw together and eat on-the-go, and they're one of the quickest breakfasts you can make that keep you feeling full all morning long. The only issue is that you may have heard that eating raw oats isn't safe because they contain phytic acid.
Why is phytic acid bad? Also known as phytate, it's found in grains, nuts, seeds, and beans and binds to essential minerals such as calcium, zinc, and iron, preventing your body from being able to absorb them. So it makes sense that if you consume too much phytic acid, you can have issues with mineral deficiencies. But don't worry! Nutritionists Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition say that even though "oats do contain phytic acid, soaking them overnight will remove some of it."
Soaking oats also helps to break down the starches, so they're easier to digest (read: less bloating) than cooked oats. If traditionally prepared oatmeal made with rolled or steel cut oats have always been off-limits because it bothers your stomach, overnight oats may not.
So go ahead and eat overnight oats every morning of the week! They're safe, easy on the tummy, and a great choice if you're watching your weight because the complex carbs and fiber keep you fuller. If you really crave a warm bowl, pop your glass jar in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.
If You Want to Build to a Push-Up, This Is the Modification You Should Be Doing
Mastering a push-up is no easy feat. The classic bodyweight move challenges your abs and upper body all at once, and requires a tremendous amount of strength and control. While doing push-ups on your knees is a classic modification, it's not the most effective in helping you build up the strength to perform the exercise on your toes. To be honest, doing push-ups on your knees will only really help you get better at just that - doing push-ups on your knees. The best modification is one that mimics the same movement, while simultaneously activating all of the same muscle groups.
Performing negative push-ups is an ideal modification to get you to a full push-up, but can still feel challenging for beginners. If this sounds like you, opt for an incline push-up, said Austin Lopez, BS, CSCS, and personal trainer at DIAKADI. It stresses your body in the same way as a traditional push-up, but takes some of the weight out of it due to the angle.
- Start in plank position, placing your palms on a stable surface like a wall, chair, kitchen counter, back of couch, or bench. Keep your arms and legs straight with weight on your toes, shoulders above the wrists, and core engaged.
- Take a breath in, and as you exhale, bend your elbows out to the sides and lower your torso in one piece (it's common to leave your pelvis behind, aka sticking your butt out) toward your hands. Stop when your shoulders are in line with your elbows. Inhale and straighten your arms to return to your starting position. This counts as one rep.
- Perform three sets of 8-12 reps.
As you become stronger and progress in the move, lower your incline until eventually you will be able to perform them parallel to the floor. If using a wall, take a step or two back to increase the angle.
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