Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 14 mai 2018
60+ 1-Pan Dinners That Are Ready in an Hour or Less
Let's face it: even the most enthusiastic cooks can fall into a takeout and delivery rut during especially busy times. While transforming raw ingredients into a tasty meal is pretty magical, the postmeal cleanup can be enough of a deterrent to make cooking midweek seem impossible. If you've felt this way as of late, a one-pot or -pan meal may be the answer. The secret of many a savvy cook, these minimal-cleanup meals are low on fuss and high on flavor. This collection of recipes is particularly geared toward busy weeks, as all of the recipes are both one-pot or -pan and take an hour or less to cook.
8 Amazing Plants That Will Help Keep Your Home Cool This Summer
If you're looking for creative ways to beat the heat this Summer, consider this: certain house plants are natural coolants. That's because plants absorb heat and many will also emit oxygen, lowering the ambient air temperature. These greens not only enliven your home decor, but they're also useful! Keep reading to discover the seven house plants that are also stellar natural coolants.
The 5 Elements of an Utterly Irresistible Résumé
Alexandra Simota is a recruiter at JD Resources Inc in New York.
Your résumé. Cue Beethoven's Fifth. This profile is often the first, and unfortunately sometimes the only, impression hiring officials get of you. There are other channels they can go through to get a more complete picture - your LinkedIn, your website, Google Images (God forbid) - but they won't bother if your résumé doesn't entice them enough to take the time to do so. As a recruiter, I'm buried in résumés. While I'm not a technical expert in each field for which I source talent, I can suss quality at a glance, and good candidates in any industry know how to produce résumés that inspire a longer look. The following are tips for crafting a résumé that makes recruiters pick up the phone.
Structure
A résumé is inherently a list of your skills and previous experience, but how you choose to lay out your list is important. It's pretty easy to guess how much time a candidate spent on his or her résumé by what it looks like, and structure is indicative of care. If you care about your résumé, I care about your résumé.
The structure of your résumé in terms of both content and format is important for one reason: how easily the reader can find information. It is an oft-stated fact that recruiters and other hiring personnel look at a résumé for about six seconds before making that initial decision to either keep reading or move on. Therefore, the more information we can absorb in six seconds, the better. A huge part of this is appearance alone. This article from LifeClever goes into great detail about things like typeface, line spacing, indentation, and margins. Sounds super exciting, I know, but the difference in readability and perceived professionalism is astounding.
Specificity
My favorite résumés are ones that include specifics. How many people did you manage? By what percentage did you increase profit margins? Which softwares did your company use? This information is the hard data I use when I'm crafting candidate presentations. It will also help you in the interview itself - the hiring manager can refer to your résumé and ask more direct questions to which you can provide more direct answers, i.e. "What did you change to achieve that 1,000,000 percent increase in productivity?" instead of "What are three things you are most proud of in your career?" Of course, they may still ask those more open-ended questions, but I personally find that the more definitive the question, the more eloquent the response.
Furthermore, and this should come as no surprise, résumés are often cast aside when a simple CTRL+F search for a keyword turns up no results. This is of course assuming that the résumé makes it past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) of the external site that I may have searched to find potential candidates (CareerBuilder, Ladders, etc.) In other words, if your résumé doesn't show up in my search results, I can't even give it that six-second look. Do yourself a favor and be sure to spell out any acronyms, too.
The keywords we want to see are always in the job description. I've had too many phone screenings with candidates who just forgot to include a specific skill or software or certification. Why did I call them in the first place if something is missing from their résumé? Usually because they have probably encountered Object XYZ if they are working in the same field as the position for which they applied, and sometimes remembering the sheer volume of things one does on a day-to-day basis is more difficult than it seems. In short, double-check the job description for industry-specific terms, and if you're familiar with them, make sure they're prominently included on your résumé.
Style
This is a tricky part of résumé-writing. Do you write in first person? In third person? In no person? In people? I made up the last two, but if anyone can imagine what those would look like, I'd love to see an example. Generally, résumés are written in first person, but without the "I". For example, instead of "I conceptualized the most successful marketing campaign the world has ever seen, and now I am widely regarded as a demigod of social media" write, in bulleted fragments,
- Conceptualized the most successful marketing campaign the world has ever seen
- Widely regarded as a demigod of social media
The first person is a stylistic preference more than it is protocol, but it's your résumé, and the "I" is assumed; including it is redundant. Using bullet points is also a stylistic preference, but no hiring official or recruiter wants to parse through paragraphs to find the information they need, especially at first glance. Bullet points are user-friendly; they let me do CTRL+F with my eyes.
Another important style choice is verb tense. Should you write in the past tense or the present progressive (using -ing at the end of the verb)? Personally, I find it looks cleanest, and makes the most logical sense, to write in past tense when describing your duties at past jobs, and present tense when describing your current position. Avoid using -ing when describing your current role, it just looks messy. For example, instead of the following:
- Booking all domestic and international travel
- Planning press events, such as launch parties and tournaments
Write:
- Book all domestic and international travel
- Plan press events, such as launch parties and tournaments
Tailoring
This is an extension of specificity. While my fellow recruiters and myself not only want to see the numeric facts, we also want to see relevance to the position for which you are submitting your résumé. If you choose to include a summary or an objective at the top of your résumé, and are applying for multiple positions, consider editing it to more closely match the specific job. An objective that reads simply, "to grow within an organization where I can hone my skills" makes a weak first line - it's too broad, and it's what most people want. Similarly, a summary that says you are "a hard-working professional" is pointless. On the other hand, there is the valid point that if you're too specific you could rule yourself out of consideration for similar, but not quite the same, positions for which the recruiter may be sourcing. It's a fine line to walk, so many candidates choose not to include an introductory section at all, which is totally fine.
Revision
Spellcheck. Tense check. Fix orphaned lines. Ensure your contact info is accurate. Résumé writing is hard work, and resisting the temptation to send it out as soon as you've written the last line (and exited the emotional roller coaster of both pride and self-doubt) is difficult. But grammar mistakes and sloppy formatting will tamp my excitement about what at first looked promising. Also check the length of your document - if you're fresh out of college there's no reason your résumé should be more than a page or two, and if you're an industry veteran you can condense your early experience and expound upon your work in the last 10 years.
Ultimately, craft a résumé that is relevant and streamlined so that it is both easy to find and easy to read. Then, just make sure you are easy to reach when those phone calls start rolling in!
Every Royal Bride Has a Sprig of This 1 Flower in Her Bouquet
Spring is well and truly sprung! So what better way to celebrate than by taking a look at all of the royal family's favorite flowers. Which ones have a special meaning for Prince Harry? Which blooms does the queen have on her desk? And what was the secret meaning behind Kate's bridal bouquet? From blossom-drenched weddings to private palace gardens and poignant plantings to meaningful decades-long passion projects, we've rounded up all the royal flower inspiration you'll ever need.
The Definitive Ranking of LaCroix Flavors
There's sparkling water, and then there's LaCroix, the nectar of gods. Boldly flavored but completely unsweetened, this Midwestern-flavored seltzer brand has captured the hearts of millennials and moms alike. With kitschy Miami Beach vibes, zesty flavors, and the whole no-guilt soda thing going for it, it's hardly surprising that this sparkling beverage has gained such a devoted following. It pains us to say this, but for all the hits - and there are many - there are some serious flavor flops as well. In other words, for every Pamplemousse, there's a Cran-Raspberry. Because I care, and at least partially because I wanted an excuse to try every single flavor, I've ranked all 20 flavors for you here. Without further ado, here's our the definitive ranking of LaCroix flavors.
Summer Calls For No-Bake Desserts
Some Summer days, it's too hot to even consider baking. But even the greatest heat waves shouldn't stop you from satisfying your sweet tooth. With puddings, panna cotta, cheesecake, and lots and lots of fruity options, there's no reason to turn on the oven when you have the choice of these 25 no-bake desserts.
25 Quotes About Mindfulness That Will Change the Way You Live Your Life
For most of us, multitasking has become a way of life. We are expected to do it all, know it all, and always be 10 steps ahead. But are we actually doing ourselves a disservice by constantly running on autopilot? What are we missing out on? The concept of mindfulness focuses on bringing your full attention to the present moment without judgment. It's about cultivating awareness to whatever is happening in the here and now instead of past regrets or fears of the future. Mindfulness can help alleviate stress, empower us to make more educated decisions, help with focus and concentration, and improve our overall health and wellness. If you feel like your mind is running you ragged and you could benefit from a little more peace, then we've got just the thing. Check out these 25 quotes on the power of being mindful, and remember - slow down and just breathe!
20 Ideas For Throwing a Royal Wedding Party in Style
It's somehow felt like both the blink of an eye and forever, but the royal wedding is almost here! Soon, royal wedding watchers will be apt to see Meghan's dress and watch Prince Harry pose next to his best man and big brother, Price William.
The blending of British and American traditions, too, will be interesting for royal wedding watchers to see, since this is a major first for the royal family. And, of course, no royal wedding would be complete without watching for who is on the ultra-exclusive guest list.
Whether you plan on watching the royal wedding alone or with a gaggle of your friends, watching it in style is the way to go. Wedding cocktails, themed foods, and more can elevate the experience, but to set the mood, royal wedding party décor is the perfect addition.
We found some of the things that you can use to really give your party the royal treatment. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning!
Make These 86 Amazing Meals For $5 or Less
Cooking at home is great for your wallet and - for the most part - better for your health. Instead of making the same recipes over and over again, challenge yourself by trying out some of the best budget-friendly recipes we found on the web. At $5 or less per serving, you definitely won't be breaking the bank with these homemade meals.
How to Get Rid of Ants in the Bathroom
While you may expect to find an ant here or there around your house during the Summer, discovering a whole swarm of them can be pretty distressing. And unfortunately, it's not uncommon to find a whole colony of ants taking up residence in different rooms in your house - including your bathroom. They might be harmless, but any unwanted visitors in your home like insects can be pretty gross. Getting rid of ants may not be as difficult as other household pests (we're looking at you, bedbugs!), but it does require some planning. Keep reading to find out how.
Find the Cause
Before you start your battle with your new guests, it's important to figure out where the ants are coming from. Often, if you have ants in your bathroom, it's likely that a colony has made itself pretty comfortable somewhere in the bathroom, and they're probably not coming in for a quick visit. Inspect your bathroom to see if you can find the colony, or watch the ants to see if they lead you there. If you're lucky, the cause of your ant problem will be pretty obvious.
Identify the Species
Not all ants are alike, and identifying the type of ant you have could help in your fight against them. But it might take a bit of guesswork if you're not an insect expert. Most ants you find in your bathroom will be either carpenter ants or pharaoh ants. Carpenter ants are attracted to moisture and wood, so they may actually be a sign of a bigger moisture issue. Pharaoh ants like warm spots for their nests, and their colonies can grow to be pretty huge.
Try a Nontoxic Spray
Sprays are great for killing ants on contact. There are lots of ant sprays available on the market, and they can also act as a deterrent for other ants to enter your home. But there are a couple of things to be aware of when using an ant spray. First, you should use a nontoxic spray in smaller, less ventilated areas like your bathroom. And second, they won't get rid of your ant problem completely.
Set Some Traps
Even if you kill all of the ants you can see, they're still likely to come back. Plus, those little creatures are so small and can hide almost anywhere. That's why traps can be a good addition to your arsenal. Typically, they work by attracting the ants with "food" - which we know as poison. After they feed on it, they take it back to the colony and the idea is that they transfer it to the queen and kill the whole colony. And most traps are child-resistant, so you won't have to worry about your children ingesting the poison.
Clean Your Toilet
The truth about ants is that they're always looking for food. And as gross as it may sound, urine and other matter around your toilet is considered food. If you notice little ants around the edge of your toilet, this may be what's attracting them in the first place. Consider upping your cleaning routine and keeping the area in and around your toilet especially clean. Even a quick wipe with a disinfectant every day should help curb the problem.
Ensure Proper Drainage
In addition to being attracted to food, ants are attracted to moisture - and your bathroom can harbor a ton of moisture. Try to make sure you never leave any puddles or reservoirs of standing water for long periods of time. If your shower has a drainage problem, consider getting it fixed.
Replace Broken Tiles
Cracked or broken tiles provide the perfect living situation for ants. The cracks allow them to hide out of sight and out of danger, and often cracks in bathroom tiles are also moist to boot. If you have an ant problem, whether you notice them in the cracks or not, it's a good idea to replace the broken tiles. This can help you prevent the colony from spreading and making it their new home.
Seal Cracks
Keeping ants at bay from the get-go will help you prevent any future ant problems. If ants in the bathroom are a common problem for you, seal any cracks in the walls, floor, and elsewhere to give them fewer places to enter from outside and fewer places to live if they make it to your bathroom. You should also make sure your toilet has adequate caulking where it meets the floor.
59 Beautiful Wedding Favor Printables to Download For Free!
It's no secret that wedding costs can add up fast. But we have a secret of our own: downloadable wedding labels! These labels are the perfect addition to any party favor, from almonds to matches to a spa scrub. And did we mention they're free? Keep on scrolling for our roundup of some of the best wedding favor printables on the web that will have your bank account thanking you!
Source: Lia Griffith
Disney-Loving Couples Will Melt Over These Magical Wedding Centerpieces
If you're a Disney die-hard who happens to be planning a wedding, paying homage to the beloved brand on your special day can be just as fun as it sounds. While wearing mouse ears down the aisle might not suit everyone, displaying creative, Disney-inspired centerpieces at your reception could be the tie-in you're looking for. From roses encased in glass cloches to floral arrangements that evoke a mermaid's tail, there are plenty of pretty ideas to pilfer for your big day!
7 Ways to Refresh Your Life Right Now
There's no better time than now to refresh your life and work on your wellness. Ahead are tips to help you step out of a funk and into a vibe of rejuvenation and renewal!
1. Think About Your Goals
Even if you decided against making any resolutions this year, now is the perfect time to think about a few things you want to accomplish in 2018. The goals and resolutions you set for yourself do not have to be life-altering, but can be something as simple as drinking more water. Setting a bar for yourself and giving yourself something to work for is a great way to feel energized and refreshed. Not to mention how great it will feel once you actually reach your goal and can check it off of your list.
2. Clean Your Cracks
It's time to start getting down and dirty. Do yourself a favor and clean the spaces you never think to wipe or sweep. Spots like your washing machine, the area around your trashcan, the inside of your fridge, or even the throw pillows on your couch can sometimes be forgotten on a regular cleaning day. Getting in the cracks and crevices will help you feel light and refreshed. Plus, it's true what they say: a clean space is a happy space.
3. Let Something Go
We all know how tough it is to let go of those trusty pair of jeans you wore everyday in high school, but trust us, it's something you might want to consider. Letting go of something, whether it be a moisturizer you never use or a worry you are allowing to weigh on you, is one of the best things you can do to feel refreshed and freed.
4. Switch Things Up
Reorganizing is something that you can do any time of year. It is a great way to refresh your space and to make things feel a little new without having to spend any money. Try rotating your lamps and picture frames or moving your furniture around - you never know what might spark some inspiration.
5. Try Something New
Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated isn't just about getting rid of things and cleaning out, you can also try new things to give yourself a boost. Whether its trying a new dance class or working to pick up a healthy lifestyle habit, trying something new adds a little zest to seasons in life that can feel a tad mundane.
6. Get Dreamy
Go ahead and start dreaming about what you want to explore on your next adventure. Look into warmer weather activities like outdoor concerts and markets that will be popping up near you. Before you know it, you won't be thinking about the freezing temperatures outside, but will instead be consumed with excitement and ready for all of the adventures that lie ahead.
7. Give Back
Volunteering is great for the soul. Helping and being there for others adds a little feeling of warmth to every heart and is the perfect way to refresh your life. Whether its once a week or once a month, every act of kindness goes a long way.
15 Easy Ways to Make an Old Home Look Like New
This past weekend, my husband and I moved from the 94-year-old home we've been renting in the Berkeley Hills to a 58-year-old home around the corner. I have always had a soft spot for old homes - the architecture, the charm, the doorknobs! - but they definitely come with their quirks. Love 'em or hate 'em - if you're living in an old house, you know there are some issues to contend with. Read on to find a list of 15 (relatively) quick fixes to make your old home feel new again.
Will Smith Had a Date With Sophia the Robot, and HELP, I Can't Stop Laughing
By now, you've probably heard of Sophia the Robot. She's the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, so much so that she's earned full citizenship in Saudi Arabia and participated in plenty of interviews. And now, she's going on a date . . . with Will Smith. In a hilarious new video, the acclaimed actor sits down with Sophia, and the result is a veritable goldmine of awkward jokes, an attempted kiss that ends in friend-zoning, and too many other hilarious moments to count. There's not much else to say; you really just have to watch the video yourself.
This Old Trump Tweet Is Coming Back to Haunt Him - Because, Well, Just Read It
It's no secret that President Donald Trump isn't the best at keeping officials in his administration around for very long. Though it feels like he's been in the Oval Office for centuries, it's only been a little more than a year - and in that time more than 30 of his staff members have either resigned or been fired from their posts. Notable departures include Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary, James Comey, former FBI Director, and Steve Bannon, former White House Chief Stategist - just to jog your memory, since these departures seem to happen so often that they all blend together.
Trump's most recent staff switch up came when he announced on March 13 that he had fired Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. As soon he shared the news - on Twitter, naturally - many were quick to call out his alarmingly high turnover rate, and some even resurrected an old tweet from the president in which he slammed Barack Obama for the amount of staff change-ups he made during his time in office. Way back in January 2012, just one day after Obama announced that his second Chief of Staff, Bill Daley, would be stepping down, Trump tweeted, "3 Chief of Staffs in less than 3 years of being President: Part of the reason why @BarackObama can't manage to pass his agenda."
3 Chief of Staffs in less than 3 years of being President: Part of the reason why @BarackObama can't manage to pass his agenda.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2012
Little did he know that six years later he'd wind up in the White House, already on his second Chief of Staff before even reaching his two-year mark, with his third COS, John Kelly, possibly on his way out soon.
We've said it before and we'll likely say it again: for almost all of Trump's controversial statements or decisions, there's always a corresponding tweet from his past that totally contradicts it. And everyone on social media isn't about to let him off the hook for it . . .
Damn do these tweets age well. 5th communication director just resigned and over a third of your original administration isn't even there. Only the best people!
- Kung Fu Colton (@ColtonTV) March 4, 2018
Trump's tweets age finer than wine.
- Rachel Linonis (@rachellinonis) March 14, 2018
And how many have you had? Oh that's right, 2, and you're only in your first year.
- Ian (@IanKC) March 1, 2018
I've lost count of the number of Chiefs of Staff (Note correction: "Chiefs") and communications directors and other personnel you've churned in the past 13 months.
You burn them faster than jet fuel in AF1.- Alan Neff (@AlanNeff) February 28, 2018
16 Texts Only a Best Friend Can Send
You and your BFF just get each other. That's why when you text them something random, like "Do you ever feel awkward when you wash zucchini?" they won't have to think twice before answering "OMG yes. Yes I do." In a universe full of strange, weird humans, you've found the one person you can be 100 percent honest with. Read on to see 15 hilarious texts that only a best friend can send.
How to Recycle Your Old Laptop Like a Responsible Adult
If you've got an old laptop that you no longer use, do yourself a favor and get rid of it ASAP. If it's still functioning, you may be able to earn a gift card in exchange - but know that it's only depreciating as it sits in your closet. Regardless of what it's worth, finally crossing this off your list and freeing up some clutter is guaranteed to be very satisfying.
But if you're planning on throwing it away, make sure that you don't toss it in the garbage like any other piece of trash. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, you're avoiding air and water pollution as well as greenhouse gas emissions by safely recycling or donating your unused electronics. So do the environment and yourself some good by properly getting rid of your laptop with the following steps below.
Step One: Back Up Your Computer
Store your files on an external hard drive or back up your data using iCloud if you have a Mac.
Step Two: Sign Out of Everything
Go the extra length to protect yourself. Sign out of all your applications, make sure none of your login information is stored in your keychain, and wipe your hard drive. Here's the full guide to deleting everything off your computer.
Step Three: Recycle Your Device at an E-Waste Location.
- Apple Recycling Program: Apple accepts old devices online at any Apple store. If your Mac or PC has any monetary value, you'll receive an Apple gift card in the amount it's worth. To receive an instant quote online, enter your device's serial number on this page. Include your payment method and shipping information and in three to five days, you'll get prepaid shipping supplies sent to your door. Ship it back and wait five to eight business days for your refund!
If your laptop has any value, you also have the option of trading it in for credit toward a new Apple product.
- Gazelle: Gazelle is another reliable buyer that will take your old devices. Similar to the process above, all you have to do is enter your laptop's serial number and ship it to its processing center using the prepaid shipping supplies they've sent to you.
- Best Buy: You have the option of dropping off your old laptop at any Best Buy store for proper disposal.
- Staples: If your computer has any value, you have the option of trading it in store for a Staples eCash Card, or sending it in through an online process.
- Goodwill: Drop off your laptop to any Goodwill collection center. According to its site, "One working computer given to Goodwill is worth 5.3 hours of career counseling."
- Find a local drop-off center in your area: Do a quick search to see if any nearby stores accept e-waste. Many manufacturers, office supply retailers, and even hardware stores will be able to take your laptop off your hands!
Not Enough Free Space? What to Delete on Your iPhone
Our smartphones are the center of our digital universe, and they hold lots of data: text messages, photos, browsing history, etc. If your iPhone's storage is at capacity, then follow these simple steps to make room for more data.
Identify What's Taking Up the Most Space
Find out what your problem areas are before deciding what to delete.
- On the iPhone, head to Settings > General > Storage & iCloud Usage to view how many gigabytes you have available. Tap into "Manage Storage" and you'll see a lost of apps by how much storage they occupy - Photos & Camera is likely to be at the top of this list.
- On a Mac or PC, plug the iPhone into a computer and open iTunes to click on the phone icon and view storage broken down by Apps,TV Show, Music, Movies, Photos, and Other. Hover over one of these categories with your mouse to view details. "Other" represents settings, calendar events, notes, browser cache, email, email attachments, and more nonmedia data.
- If Other makes up an overwhelming amount of iPhone storage, then there may be an issue with corrupted data. If you've tried deleting all of our suggestions and there is still lots of Other storage, then consider restoring your iPhone.
- Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes, have backed up the device, and have synced content with your computer. Connect the iPhone to your computer, and in the Summary section under the phone icon, click on Restore iPhone. This returns the iPhone back to factory settings.
Delete Unnecessary Data
While this seems like a no-brainer, there may be some unlikely suspects on this list:
- Delete photos
- On the iPhone, do this in your camera roll. On the Mac, connect your iPhone and open Image Capture (default on all Apple computers). Select photos to delete, and select multiple images by holding down the command key while you click on the photos.
- Text messages
- Call history
- Voicemail
- Safari browsing history (Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data)
- Unused/outdated/redundant contacts
- Turn off app notifications
- Delete and reinstall email account to get rid of attachments cache
- Unused apps (long press any app icon on the homescreen and tap the "x" button on the top left of the icon)
- Completed reminders
- Books
- Movies
- Video
- Reduce locally stored music for "offline" listening in music streaming apps
Possible Preventative Solutions
Nip the full-memory problem in the bud next time around. Since photos are typically the biggest problem, download the Google Photos app, which compresses, backs up, and stores unlimited high-quality photos and videos for free, meaning you can delete them from your Camera Roll.
Reduce what is synced to your phone. Consider syncing selected playlists or genres rather than the entire music library, and deleting podcasts, movies, and TV shows after you've finished watching them.
Have a space-saving tip not listed here? Let us know in the comments!
Seriously Cute Harry Potter Gear That You Can Rock When It's Hot Outside
Because the Harry Potter series is set in chilly Britain and has many notable moments during the Winter season, most of the Potter-inspired merchandise on the market consists of sweaters, scarves, and long-sleeved garments. But what's a fangirl to do during Spring and Summer, when the weather outside turns warm? If you want to rep your fandom in every season, then you should say "accio!" to these tanks, dresses, and other warm-weather wardrobe finds. (We're sorry in advance for your Gringotts account.)
Geek Fashion You'll Want in Your Closet Immediately
The most incredible geek event we've ever attended? That would be the first-ever geek couture fashion show held in July during San Diego Comic-Con 2014. Fandom fashion retailer Her Universe called upon the galaxy's most stylish designers, both professional and amateur, to present their original, handmade creations on the runway. Consider it a preview of what to expect at this year's festival.
What we saw was not cosplay. Oh no, these gowns could have belonged on the pages of Vogue or at New York Fashion Week. As one of the designers put it: for those who aren't geeks, the clothing would just seem cute and unique, but for those who are geeks and can recognize the reference, the garment has a special twist.
Ultimately, the event was a competition, in which the winner will codesign a fashion collection exclusively for Hot Topic. But in all honesty, the winner was all fangirls, everywhere, who now live in a time where wearing a t-shirt to express fandom isn't the only option. Continue on for a ranking of our favorite geeky gowns from the Her Universe show!
-Additional reporting by Kelly Schwarze
Photos: Kelly Schwarze
21 Ink-credible Science-Inspired Tattoos
The careful line-drawing and stippling techniques of science illustration make them a natural starting point for incredible tattoos. Students and admirers of the sciences are flying their geek flags high with skin art of meaningful molecules, anatomical drawings, and space exploration's most historic events. So in the name of science, we've rounded up some of the best body ink inspired by chemistry, space, and the natural sciences.
10 Cult Quotes That Need to Be Included in Your Wedding
We draw a lot of inspiration from TV and film for our real-life events, so if you and your betrothed are passionate about a certain show or nerdy interest, then there's no reason to leave it out of your wedding day. Don't want to go all-out for a themed wedding? Consider incorporating these words of love into your wedding vows or readings for a subtle touch of geekery.
25 Great Geek-Approved Desk Items
A boring, predictable desk simply won't do for a savvy geek. These 25 items are guaranteed to make the inner geek in you swoon. We've got just the right items for you, whether you are looking to organize your wires more efficiently, make your space ergonomically friendly, or add a little irreverence to your cubicle.
I Never Expected to Fall in Love With Virtual Reality - but Then I Met Oculus Go
I have always been a skeptic when it comes to anything billed as "the next big thing." Sure, I'll try anything once - but until something becomes integrated fully into the mainstream universe that is our collective digital lives, I'll generally keep an arched eyebrow and a snarky comment in my back pocket for the day that the latest "game changer" inevitably, indubitably, inescapably fails.
There have been some exceptions to this rule, of course. I'll be the first to admit that last year I ate some serious crow with regards to the world of smart-home technology. But that all pales in comparison with my most recent revelation, one that represents the biggest step-change in my 30-something years of life: I think we may finally, as a society, have gotten virtual reality to the place where it's actually ready to be the real next big thing - and it's all because of Oculus Go.
To be clear, I'm no stranger to virtual reality. I've tested my fair share of headsets and devices and rigs over the years and never really understood what it was that people enjoyed. Nor did I understand why anyone in their right mind would spend such a phenomenal amount of money to acquire a device that hurt your face, put your phone in perilous proximity to your eyeballs, and didn't do anything truly revolutionary (as far as I was concerned). As a result, when I walked in to demo Oculus Go a couple of weeks ago, I wasn't really prepared for the experience that I immediately got - in fact, I was literally speechless for a couple of hours after, contemplating just how big a deal what I had just seen truly was.
First and foremost, let me just throw this out there: the starting price for the unit (complete with accessories and the control) is $199 - and no, that's not a typo. As the most affordable model ever to enter what was once considered a prohibitively expensive space, it puts the virtual reality experience at a cheaper price point than any standard video game system (the possibilities for gaming are endless!) and, of course, far lower than a TV set itself (you can watch streaming video right on the device!). It also means that it's not the end of the world if something happens to it, transforming the headset into a portable part of your everyday life as opposed to an object that should be kept under glass.
To that end, one of the most revolutionary parts of the Oculus Go is that you can take it anywhere with you since it's a completely standalone device. You use your phone to set it up, but that's it - there's nothing inserted into the front of the goggles, no lanky cords, no computer required nearby. Being wireless, flexible, and easy to replace makes it so that you actually want to spend time with the device, with the added bonus that the developers spent a whole hell of a lot of time working to make it more comfortable - adding soft-to-the-touch eye wells, including straps that accommodate a ponytail, and developing a spacer for those who wear glasses. You can even get prescription lens inserts, if you're feeling fancy - in other words, they've covered every single imaginable base with the newest design, and boy was it worth the wait.
At this point, it should be quite clear that both my wallet and my face were feeling ecstatic about the prospects of the Oculus Go - but it took the four-day weekend I spent one on one with the headset to truly round out the trifecta - that is to say, to really show me why I needed one in my life and I needed it now. What makes the device so astoundingly glorious is what's found inside: an entire world, built and ready to explore, with the promise of so, so much more. With third-party apps popping up on the daily and 360 videos being uploaded to Facebook hourly, there's a never-ending stream of delightful content that pours into the Oculus Go. But there are two features in particular that I want to spotlight as what truly won me over: the beauty that is Oculus Spaces and the striking experience of streaming Netflix and Hulu in VR.
There have been prior iterations of Spaces in previous Oculus models, and chances are you've probably seen some form of the technology utilized on the Facebook platform itself. But the 2018 version brings our wildest Sims-based fantasies to life, placing a customized personal avatar in a personalized apartment that allows you to play games, watch TV, and have animated conversations with friends - all in a world that is your very own. This is where things get super trippy, so hold on to your hat: your avatar moves as you do, and the built-in headset sound is spatial, so if your friend is talking to you on the left side you'll only hear them in that ear. If that doesn't blow your mind enough, note that you can sit down at a table and play a board game as your favorite movie plays in the background and you chat to one another from afar.
But it doesn't have to be just any movie. Oculus Go partnered with Netflix and Hulu so you can watch any of your favorite binge-streaming shows from the comfort of your Spaces couch while sat beside your best friend - no matter where you are in real life. Which is a big freakin' deal in and of itself, but also consider this: even if you want to watch something solo, you no longer have to stress out about kicking your roommates out of the living room to watch your favorite series or about the sound being too loud when you fall asleep with your computer still on. Instead, you can lay back and watch that ending on your own time, making it a real, actual game changer, if you ask me.
While I may have just laid out the case for why Oculus Go ticks all the boxes for a virtual reality fantasy made realized and complete, just summing up my favorite features doesn't even scratch the surface of the myriad things this must-have device can do, so you can expect to hear a whole lot more from me on my continuing quest to conquer every inch of the headset's features, dear reader, over the coming days and weeks. But at this stage I can say one thing for certain, and it's something I never expected I'd say: Oculus Go made me a VR believer, and I'm pretty damn sure that if you pick one up for yourself, it'll make you a believer too.
13 Lego Wedding Ideas You'll Want to Copy
Just like there are Star Wars weddings and superhero weddings, there are Lego weddings that guests will always remember. For fun but classy inspiration, check out these ideas that you'll want to copy ASAP.
Toy Story Land's Restaurant Menu Is Here, and We Need to Talk About the S'mores French Toast
Walt Disney World's highly anticipated Toy Story Land is slated to open on June 30 at Hollywood Studios, and we can hardly wait. Luckily, we have the new menu for Toy Story Land's restaurant, Woody's Lunch Box, to tie us over in the meantime. The restaurant aims to put a "modern spin" on classic lunchtime favorites, but believe me, you won't find lunches like these on the playground. Miss your childhood toaster pastries? Try the Chocolate Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart, which is topped with bacon. In the mood for nachos? You might want to opt for the chili cheese totchos.
Of course, the Toy Story-inspired menu also stays true to Woody's cowboy roots with a Texas-style brisket sandwich, and another option gives a nod to Buzz's intergalactic adventures with a novelty Alien Sipper. Keep reading to see all the Woody's Lunch Box menu items coming your way this Summer.
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.
Totoro, Soot Sprites, and Forest Spirits: 40 Enchanting Studio Ghibli Tattoo Ideas
There are no words that accurately describe the experience of watching Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli films, so let's just leave it at "enchanting." Filled with breathtaking artwork, captivating storylines, and beloved characters, Ghibli movies are perfect tattoo fodder - beautiful enough for anyone to appreciate, yet specific enough that only fans will truly understand.
If you're aching to get inked, check out these 40 gorgeous ideas inspired by your favorite films . . . or if going under the needle isn't your speed, simply appreciate the creativity of others' body art!
16 Hilarious Cardi B Moments That Will Have You Screaming, "Eeeeooowww!"
Cardi B is cementing her place in the music industry with her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, but what we probably love most about the 25-year-old rapper is her innate ability to make us laugh. Whether she's freaking out over meeting a celebrity on Instagram, making us blush with her raunchy jokes, or dropping one of her famous catchphrases, there's no denying that Cardi B is downright hilarious. Thank you for being you, Cardi, and never change.
Fifth Harmony Took Its Final Bow Before Going on Hiatus, and Fans Are Feeling Emotional
Hey, Harmonizers; you doing OK? You good? Now that Fifth Harmony's officially on a break, we just wanted to check in. After Camila Cabello left the musical act in December 2016, the group announced in March it'd be taking a hiatus. Sadly, that time has come. After six years together, the group had its last performance in Florida on May 11, and fans are (understandably) emotional over it. The ladies of Fifth Harmony joined their fans in saying goodbye, posting photos on Instagram and Twitter, and their tour manager even reminisced over the band's early days together. Ahead, see their sweet snaps and fans' reactions to the final performance (but make sure you have a tissue on hand).
Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova Are Still Going Strong After 16 Years
Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova have been dating since 2001. The two met when Anna was featured in Enrique's music video for "Escape" in the same year.
The couple briefly separated in 2013 but got back together and have been going strong ever since. They have settled down in Miami and continue to do their own thing while staying quiet about their relationship, which is probably one of the secrets to how they have been together for so long. Adding another layer to their super private relationship, the two welcomed twins, Nicholas and Lucy, in December 2017. The public didn't even know Anna was pregnant until the news broke she had given birth.
She's a badass former professional tennis player, he has the voice of an angel, and together they make the couple of our dreams. It also doesn't hurt that both of them are smoking hot (cue the fan we need to cool us down). They are adorable, and whenever we see them out and about, our hearts skip a beat.
The Cutest Pictures of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía of Spain
It seems like just yesterday when King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain announced the birth of their first daughter, so it comes as a total shock that it was 12 years ago that Princess Leonor, the heir to the throne, was born in Madrid. From day one, the little royal graced us with the sweetest pictures (and the most adorable outfits) at family outings and official events.
Then, in 2007, the cuteness doubled with the birth of her sister, Infanta Sofía, and thus began a time of matching outfits, coordinating hairstyles, and mischievous sisterly smiles. Keep scrolling to see the best pictures of the two royals through the years.
85 Bikini Photos That Show Alessandra Ambrosio's Amazing Body
Alessandra Ambrosio's Instagram is reliable for a few things: bikinis, gorgeous beaches, and sexy photos. The Brazilian supermodel is not shy when it comes to getting in a skimpy swimsuit and posing for the camera - she did make her fame by walking down the runway of the hottest show in Victoria's Secret lingerie - and we don't blame her. The mom of two has a crazy-toned body. Need proof? See her sexiest bikini pictures, then check out her workout style.
You'll Want to Shop Selena Gomez's Sexy Swimsuits
You might think of celebrities on perma-vacations like Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima when you're looking for swimsuit inspiration, but we're telling you right now that Selena Gomez's beach style is the most versatile of them all.
Whenever the singer is ready to hit the water, she chooses both sexy bikinis and practical one-pieces that flatter her curves and still manage to be comfortable. So if you want to stock up, look ahead for lots of inspiration from Selena.
Camila Mendes's Instagram Is Full of the Riverdale Star's Hottest Pictures
Camila Mendes won us over when she took on the role of Veronica Lodge in The CW series Riverdale. Ever since we first saw her on the small screen, we have been obsessed with her, especially after we discovered her Instagram.
The 23-year-old loves posting selfies and sharing pics from a very sexy pizza party with some of her costars. We are not complaining one bit because we love seeing this side of Camila and what she does during her downtime. You will, too, after taking a peek at any one of these pictures. You're welcome in advance, because she is the epitome of the fire emoji.
The Cutest Pictures of Jennifer Lopez and Her Twins Max and Emme
Over the past couple years, Jennifer Lopez has offered fans a glimpse into her life as a mom with supercute snaps of her twins, Max and Emme. She and her ex-husband, Marc Anthony, welcomed the kids in February 2008, and since then, she's shared more than a few adorable pictures of the pair on Instagram.
Back in May 2015, Jennifer opened up about motherhood when she sat down with Ellen DeGeneres. "I love my kids," she said. "I wish I would have four or five more." She added, "The fact that you get to love somebody unconditionally in that way and not even care if they love you back - you just love them so much. Like that relationship, that's the biggest blessing in the world." So sweet! Keep reading for some of Jennifer Lopez's best family snaps on Instagram, then check out her sexiest snaps since the '90s.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
Sofia Vergara's Hottest Looks Through the Years
Sofia Vergara is definitely a confident woman. The Modern Family actress is outspoken, not afraid to make fun of herself, a powerhouse when it comes to her career, and the ruler of any red carpet she steps on. The star proudly (and rightly so!) displays her curvy body in revealing outfits.
From her supersexy and wedding-worthy Marchesa gown at the 2015 Met Gala to the mermaid-inspired sequined Zuhair Murad dress she wore to the 2012 Emmy Awards, Sofia has been blessing us with her stunning body for years. Keep scrolling to take a look at her sexiest and most curve-showing outfits, then the workout routine she follows to stay fit.
Grab Your Oven Mittens, Because These Photos of Jennifer Lopez Are Too Hot to Handle
The phrase "Jennifer Lopez looks soooo hot" is probably uttered a billion times a day. And that's because the 48-year-old actress and singer only knows how to ooze sensuality - yes, when she steps on a red carpet or stage, but also in her everyday life, as demonstrated by the hotness that is her Instagram feed.
Bikini pictures, ab-showing photos, behind-the-scenes peeks at her revealing red carpet outfits, and lots of sultry selfies - these are just a few of the types of hot snaps J Lo loves to share with her millions of followers. Want to see for yourself? Keep scrolling for a compilation of her sexiest Instagram photos of all time.
60+ Photos That Show Gilmore Girls' Alexis Bledel's Style Has Changed a Lot Over the Years
You might be part of the new generation getting to know Rory Gilmore through the addition of Gilmore Girls to Netflix and the reboot premiering on Nov. 25, or you might be part of the camp that watched the show live on The WB (now The CW) in the early 2000s as Rory nervously dated Dean, chose Yale over Harvard, went through a bad-girl phase, and eventually found her way back to Stars Hollow. It doesn't matter! Whether you are just getting to know Rory and Alexis Bledel, the Argentinian-American actress raised in Mexico City who portrayed your favorite character, or know everything about her, the photos ahead are about to give you a serious bout of nostalgia.
From her shy days on the red carpet, wearing loose and demure midi dresses with kitten heels, to her redhead phase (oh, yes, she was a redhead) to the most recent Gilmore Girls fan event and her homage to Rory's Chilton years, look ahead for 60+ photos of Alexis through the years.
64 Sexy Pictures of Demi Lovato That Prove There's Nothing Wrong With Being Confident
When she's not slaying a performance in front of a crowd, Demi Lovato is busy looking gorgeous on Instagram. The "Confident" singer definitely doesn't shy away from the occasional pouty picture. It doesn't matter if she's decked in full glam, completely makeup-free, or even a little sweaty post-workout - let's face it, Demi knows how to work her angles. She simply achieves sexy perfection every time, and, on the off-chance you don't believe us, we've compiled every bit of proof. Keep scrolling to see Demi's most wow-worthy snaps.
30 Meaningful Tattoos in Spanish You'll Want Immediately
Any tattoo-lover knows the secret behind great ink is the story. Tattoos can represent your passions and loves or mark an important moment in your life - or even remind you of a pretty crazy night when you were feeling spontaneous and maybe a little tipsy. But if you're considering getting new ink, why not choose a design that embodies your cultural identity? Whether it's a quote to honor your Latin roots or a simple word that speaks to you, a permanent mark in Spanish is just the perfect amount of mysterious and meaningful. We rounded up some ideas (and included the translations) that will undoubtedly inspire you.
Why Your Fitness Tracker Isn't Picking Up Your Strength-Training Workout
Ever glanced at your fitness tracker while weightlifting and wondered why it was completely off? Your device may be fantastic for tracking heart rate and cardio, but a common weakness found across wearables is the ability to detect strength-training exercises. That's because Fitbit's PurePulse technology and Apple's similar heart sensor technology use LED lights to detect the amount of blood flow in your wrist. This provides real-time data on your heart rate and calories burned, but they're much more suited for tracking rhythmic movements like dance cardio or running. The good news is that there are tips and tricks to better optimize your device's settings to make sure your workouts are accounted for.
Fitbit Tips
- Customize your exercise shortcuts on the Fitbit app to include "Weights" as one of the Exercise options on your Fitbit Blaze, Fitbit Charge 2, Fitbit Ionic, or Fitbit Versa. According to Fitbit, this will provide you with more precise heart rate tracking, capturing it every one second versus every five seconds.
- You can also manually log the duration of your strength-training workout directly in the app.
- Fitbit also offers a built-in interval timer that you can customize to fit your workout. It vibrates and lights up to indicate when it's time to move or rest.
Apple Watch Tips
- Select the "Other" workout option on your Apple Watch and label it as "Strength Training" at the end of your workout. It will provide you with time, heart rate, and calories for that specific session.
- When you're holding a plank, for instance, the "Other" workout will still credit you the calorie equivalent of a brisk walk, while also counting toward your all-day Activity.
If you're in a mixed-format class like Barry's Bootcamp, where you switch from the treadmill to floor, you can also manually switch between exercise modes. It may not give you a comprehensive look at your entire workout, but you can at least get more accurate snapshots of individual exercises for measuring purposes.
Despite the challenges that smart watches and fitness trackers have, San Francisco-based trainer Austin Lopez encourages all of his clients, especially his remote ones, to wear a Fitbit. At the end of each week, he has everyone send in their weekly reports for accountability and progress.
"In terms of goals, it comes down to consistency," Lopez told POPSUGAR. "The wearables help maintain consistency by notifying you of daily activity levels being reached, workout goal progress, and other healthy habits. As a trainer, it is helpful because I don't have to send hundreds of reminders a day, rather, I check in with my clients' overall lifestyle in a week's time."
When using his personal Fitbit during workouts, Austin shoots for a certain number of burned calories per session. Regardless of whether or not that number is accurate, setting a benchmark can help him gauge how hard he worked. You can do the same by giving your next workout everything you've got to see the maximum amount of calories you can burn on your tracker. Then, compare your future workouts to that data for a better look at your progress.
Overall, get familiar with your device and figure out all the ways you can tailor it to you. Its default settings may be great to start off with, but you can manipulate your Apple Watch or Fitbit past the main screen to truly use it to its fullest potential. Keep in mind that although they may not be the most accurate at all times, they're fantastic for tracking your personal activity and progress, and there's value in that alone.
Move Over, Tinder - Facebook Is Getting Into the Dating Game
If you're one of the many single people among the 2.2 billion Facebook users around the world, get excited: Facebook is officially getting into the dating game. And better still, CEO Mark Zuckerberg told a roaring crowd at the F8 developer conference on May 1 that the new feature will be "focused on long-term relationships, not just hookups." Yes, please, and thank you, Facebook!
In truth, the move marks a strong strategic pivot on Facebook's part, cementing its commitment to building more of an on-platform community. As Zuckerberg pointed out in his remarks, one in three relationships begin online and a staggering 200 million of the platform's users are currently listed as single. There's also never been a better time for Facebook to move into online dating, as the fallout from the Cambridge Analytica scandal has forced several key competitors in the space - including Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder - to move away from their heavy reliance on leveraging Facebook data to connect users with people in similar social circles or with similar interests. Don't just take my word for it, though - just take a look at the impact the news had on legacy dating site Match's stock price mere moments after it was announced on Facebook's F8 live stream:
Match shares fall as much as 10% after Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announces new dating feature for the site https://t.co/xWywlCPlDK pic.twitter.com/oAKn80xpEZ
- Bloomberg Technology (@technology) May 1, 2018
The feature won't be rolling out until later this year, but POPSUGAR has learned a couple key things about what the new Facebook dating venture will encompass. First, you never have to spend a single second worrying about who can see your dating profile - it's completely separate from your News Feed, and you'll never see your friends on the platform (and they won't see you). Second, you'll be able to unlock events or groups to connect with people who you may have encountered in real life; think the old Missed Connections on Craigslist, only a hell of a lot more real. Finally, expect a brand-new inbox to appear in relation to all things dating, one that's strictly text only - so again, kiss those unwanted photo intros goodbye and prepare for something a lot more substantive when it comes to meeting your match.
So, now all we have to do is wait for the Facebook gods to begin their rollout - but you can bet we'll be eagerly awaiting the launch and will make sure you're the first to hear when Facebook Dating finally goes live.
You'll Forget All About Fancy Weddings When You See This Couple's City Hall Nuptials
Many envision having a grand wedding ceremony and reception where all their friends and loved ones are there to witness a union. But Alva and Bo's intimate nuptials might convince you to downsize your guest list to two. The couple decided to have their own destination wedding in San Francisco to tie the knot at the gorgeous City Hall. The five-day trip included just them and their wedding photographer, exploring the city and Alcatraz.
"Alva had her dress custom designed with her favorite accent color, pink, and added fabulous pink patent-leather heels for her big day styling," said their photographer. "These two are so clearly in love and they do know how to have a good time, and it shows in all the photos."
See the pictures ahead!
Charlotte Tilbury Makes Some Incredible Products - These Are Our 15 Faves
Let us introduce you to your new favorite makeup brand. Charlotte Tilbury is a British celebrity makeup artist who, after years of being questioned about her secret magic formulas, decided to bless the world with her own cosmetics line. She believes that great makeup should be available to anyone, and many of her products come with simple tutorials, like how to contour your face or create an easy smoky eye. She's also adamant about skin care and created face and body essentials to ensure that your canvas, aka your face, is as beautiful without makeup as it is with makeup. Now that's something we can get behind. All her products are available at Nordstrom, so keep reading to see our favorites and get ready to shop!
I Tried This Nail Polish Holder and It's a Clumsy Girl's Dream Come True
I seriously spill everything. Whether it be a cup of coffee or a bottle of foundation, it's going down. That's why I totally flipped when a friend sent me a link to this Tweexy Wearable Nail Polish Holder ($20). The genius invention keeps your polish in place while you paint your nails so you never worry about knocking it over. I had to try it for myself, so naturally I ordered one.
As soon as I got it, I pulled it out of the package to give it a try. The squishy silicone material it's made from is soft and flexible. All you do is push the product down onto your ring and middle finger - it fits easily. Then you pop your favorite nail polish bottle in the top, unscrew it, and get to painting. No matter how much I tilted my hand, the bottle never slipped or fell out. It was incredibly easy to use and I didn't have any unwanted polish spots on my floor.
This cute little Tweexy comes in several colors including lavender, mint, blue, hot pink, and "unicorn swirl." If you're klutzy like me, I'm begging you to give this creation a try. You'll have one less stain to clean up!
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