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.
vendredi 18 mai 2018
If You Do This 1 Disney World Vacation Hack, You're Guaranteed to Have the Best Time
Planning a trip to Disney World can feel like an overwhelming task. Sure, it's fun and truly makes everyone's dreams come true (it's the happiest place on Earth, after all), but getting there and feeling like you're getting the most out of your trip can be anxiety-inducing. There are a million tips out there for how to plan a Disney vacation the right way, but trying to incorporate all those tips might just increase your stress levels more than assuage them.
So, from a mom who's been there, here's the one and only hack you really need to make your trip to Disney World as unforgettable as you hope it'll be: focus on booking three things - lodging, dining, and FastPass+ - as early as the park will allow; then let the rest go. As my mom reminded me before my daughter's first trip to Disney, "If you go on three rides, it will still be the best day of her life." I agree, but getting on the rides she wanted, plus having a place to eat and sleep is kind of important, too.
Here's the bare minimum of what you need to stress about to make your trip as magical as possible. Focus on these three things, and you're golden.
Lodging
Start researching your Disney resort options as soon as you know you're planning a trip. There are so many places to stay within Walt Disney World at a wide range of price points that move depending on demand, so do your research to find the right spot for your family. If you're booking your lodging online, you can't do so until Disney releases the next year's rates, which is usually in August of the previous year (for example, if you're going in February 2019, you won't be able to book until August 2018).
However, you can call Disney before that and make a room-only reservation. They will charge you for a single night based on this year's rate, and then automatically adjust your reservation once the 2019 pricing is released. At that point, you can also convert your room-only reservation into a Disney Vacation Package reservation, adding dates, dining packages, and discounted park tickets. You'll also be able to customize your complimentary Magic Bands through your reservation.
Dining
You can reserve dining at all the Disney table-service restaurants up to 180 days in advance, which is a big win when it comes to planning your travels. The most popular restaurants - the Magic Kingdom's Cinderella's Royal Table and Be Our Guest (the only restaurant that serves alcohol in the park), and all character dining experiences in Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom - will book up quickly during high-traffic times, so book as soon as possible. Some restaurants will require that you pay for your meal when you reserve, but if you have to cancel later, they'll give you a refund.
FastPass+
Your FastPass+ is your get-out-of-line free card for each park, so use them wisely. Each member of your group can book up to three Fastpass+ credits for each day, so you'll want to get the most out of them. Do some research into what rides and attractions are can't-misses for your group, prioritizing Fastpass+ for those with the longest lines. Then, try to book them as early as you can (30 days in advance, or 60 days for those staying at a resort hotel). The most popular rides and character meetings book up quickly, so mark your calendar.
Be sure to read the FastPass+ fine print, as some of the parks (such as Epcot) have tiered systems that restrict the use of more than one Fastpass+ in a top tier (you will have to choose between Frozen Ever After and Soarin'), whereas others (like Animal Kingdom) may make you choose between certain high-demand rides (such as Avatar Flight of Passage and Na'vi River Journey).
Also, be aware of the times you're booking for your FastPass+ credits, as well. Once you use all three FastPass+ in one day, you'll be able to book more while you're in the park, which means that if all your reservations are scheduled before early afternoon, you'll have plenty of time to score a couple more. However, mornings (usually before 11 a.m.) are the slowest time at the parks, so arrive early enough (take advantage of Extra Magic Hours if you're staying on the property), and you might be able to get on your favorite rides without waiting in line anyway. Strategy is key.
I Still "Baby Wear" My Toddler, and It's the Best Parenting Hack I've Found
"Isn't she heavy?" I'm asked for the 100th time as I grocery shop with my 32-pound toddler on my back. When you "wear" your toddler, there are questions, judgments, and yes, even looks of envy. There have been plenty of instances where I've had my daughter on my back as we smoothly make our way down the store aisles (sometimes while singing) and a parent with a screaming toddler gives me the look of, "Sh*t, I need one of those." Yes, you do. There are so many reasons I still "wear" my daughter, despite her being long out of the small baby phase. The main one? It's made my life as a new mom so much easier. I've come to think of it as the greatest parenting hack that everyone needs to know. Here's why.
- Your shopping dreams will come true. OK, you may not be gifted millions to buy whatever you want (that's what my shopping dreams are made of), but something that's almost as valuable will happen. You'll be able to get through the store without chasing your toddler around and avoid some epic tantrums. Carrying your toddler gives them a great view of what's going on, and as soon as that little hand reaches for a glass jar on the shelf, you can step back and avoid a mess.
- You can both explore and have adventures. Have plans for a beautiful hike but unsure if the little one can keep up and not get tired? Bring along your carrier. I always let my daughter explore in nature for as long as she wants. But she'll likely get tired after a while, which is when I'll pick her up and strap her to my back. They may put up a little fight since the fun and exploring independently has ended, but they'll quickly ease into the comfort of your body and the view from above. And if you're very lucky, they'll nap.
- Bonding. Wearing your baby is a great way to create or maintain a strong bond. It can also calm them. For me, wearing my toddler has continued our bond after our breastfeeding journey ended at 28 months. She still gets the closeness of being on my chest, and I love the snuggles.
- Safety in busy situations. I don't know about you, but I still remember that time I got lost in a grocery store and was given a red balloon as they called for my mom on the intercom. Baby-wearing is a great way to keep kids close and safe if you'll be in a high traffic area.
- Traveling. The only reason I've ever brought a stroller while traveling is because my husband suggested it. Our first trip with our girl was when she was 11 weeks old. The stroller ended up being useless weight since she slept on my chest. The next time we brought a small umbrella stroller, I accidentally left it on a train platform. It was just an extra piece to carry around. Having your baby get used to being in a carrier is essential if you love to travel. I've rocked my girl to sleep in the carrier on a number of international flights, train rides, and outings. She's spent hours, literally, on my back as we toured the cobblestone streets of Germany, and when she really disliked the back seat on the bicycle we rode in Amsterdam, I rode with her on my back. She laughed the rest of the way.
- Hands-free. If you can't have an extra hand, you should at least be able to use the ones you have. Enough said.
- Naps on the go. Ever had to cancel plans because it was going to interrupt naptime? Sleep on the go is possible with a cozy front carry or back carry! Whether you work long hours, don't feel like canceling plans, or have a long day of errands you need to get done, carriers will be your new BFF. Start them young.
Editor's Note: This piece was written by a POPSUGAR contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of POPSUGAR Inc. Interested in joining our POPSUGAR Voices network of contributors from around the globe? Click here.
22 Anything-but-Typical Pregnancy Announcements
We love it when expectant parents share their baby news with a creative take on the typical pregnancy announcement, and these 22 truly fit the bill. Whether baby No. 1 is getting the boot from her crib or mama's having some serious cravings, parents-to-be have found a hilarious or creative solution for every kind of family to announce the arrival-on-the-way.
If you have your own baby on board, get inspired with these fun ideas!
jeudi 17 mai 2018
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.
We're Not Kidding - These 30 Stylish Vacation Clothes Are All Under $30 on Amazon!
There's no worse feeling than being stuck on vacation in uncomfortable clothes you're sick of. This Summer, as you plan your next getaway, treat yourself to comfortable and cute pieces you'll actually be exited to wear. You can save your money for vacation too, because we shopped on Amazon and it's filled with an array of affordable finds. From relaxed trousers to breathable shorts and the perfect dresses, all these picks are less than $30. Keep scrolling to plan your whole new travel wardrobe.
Any Detective Could Figure Out What Meghan Markle's Wedding Dress Looks Like
It's less than a month until the wedding of the year: Meghan Markle will marry Prince Harry at St. George's Chapel in Windsor on May 19, and we're all desperate to know what she'll wear. Though there's still plenty of speculation as to the designer and the exact number of gowns Meghan will wear on the day, if you dig deep enough, it's easy to come to a number of conclusions as to what she'll pick. As a devotee of both the royals and bridal trends, I got on the case, digging into the latest looks from Bridal Fashion Week, hunting down Meghan's old interviews, and examining her style in order to predict exactly what she'll wear on the big day. The conclusion? Well, it depends how brave she's feeling . . .
16 Reasons Not to Shelve Your Beret - Not Now, Not Ever
Don't retire your trusty beret to the depths of your wardrobe just yet. As Meghan Markle is well aware, berets are here to stay, and they're just as versatile for Spring as they are for Winter. As you say a temporary farewell to your collection of faux furs and thick knits, try introducing your beret to denim jackets, tea dresses, and mules for a cute yet considered look. Need a hand styling this must-have accessory? Read on for 16 reasons not to shelve your beret this season.
15 Iconic Swimsuit Moments in History That Will Give You All the Life This Season
Swimsuit season is all but upon us, and it's time to stock up on bathing suits. If the beach or the pool - or both - is calling your name (raises hand), you're going to want to be prepared. And no, we don't mean by starting a crash diet or hitting the gym. Because every body is a beach body, all you really need to get fully water-wardrobe ready is a little inspiration. That's why we've rounded up the 15 most iconic swimsuit moments of all time. From Ursula Andress to Ashley Graham, these are the ultraconfident bathing beauties we're channeling this season.
Related: The Bikini Moments We've Already Been Blessed With This Year
Small Bust? Shop 20 Figure-Flattering Suits to Enhance What You've Got
Swimsuit shopping is a unique battle for anyone, especially if you're self-conscious about being smaller up top. Arm yourself with tricks and you'll be able to stroll seaside with confidence.
- Flaunt what you have, and fake what you don't. If you're looking to create more cleavage, opt for an underwire bra top (or padding). A structured top will shape what you have, while padded cups can actively fake more if that's the look you're after.
- Distract, distract, distract. Ruffles, bold prints, and splashes of color are all far busier than a simple, solid suit and can claim an onlooker's attention.
- Embrace what you can wear. Tiny tops and unique shapes are cute but often spell disaster for women with larger chests. Trendy styles are easy to conquer when support isn't mandatory, so go ahead and play around with fun cuts.
Now that you're up to speed, just read on to shop the cutest suits for small-busted beach babes.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak and Leah Melby
You'll Go Crazy For These 13 Summer Rompers . . . All on Amazon and Under $15!
Rompers are convenient and cute pieces to wear during summertime. All you have to do is throw one on and you have a completed outfit. We found cute options from Amazon with low prices, so you'll definitely find something that works for you. Trust us, once you snag one, you'll never want to take it off. The Instagram "likes" will be flowing for days.
11 Must-Have Accessories You'll Want to See in Your Closet This Summer
If you haven't tried shopping at Clare V., you're missing out. The growing name is known for its chic Parisian aesthetic mixed with chill Cali vibes. We've been seeing its fun and colorful accessories pop up left and right. Just recently, the brand teamed up with TOMS for a line of stylish shoes that donated to a good cause. So if you're looking to pick up a new bag or wallet this season, we have you covered. From convenient totes to cute clutches and even a fashionable phone case, take a look at our favorites ahead.
Whoa! Kendall Jenner Styled Her Sexy Minidress With Disney Princess-Worthy Heels
Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid are clearly having the time of their lives at the Cannes Film Festival. The best friends let off some steam by dancing the night away at an afterparty at Magnum Beach in Cannes.
After turning heads in a super-sheer gown that put everything on display, Kendall switched into a sparkly minidress. Bella also left her ballgown back at the hotel and opted for a gray crop top and silver biker shorts.
In true supermodel fashion, the duo wore the most mesmerizing heels we've ever seen. While Bella's PVC heels were an interesting choice, it was Kendall's pink crystal-encrusted heels that stole the show. She styled her Disney princess-worthy heels with a pair of black ankle socks. Keep reading to take a closer look at their outfits and shop similar versions of Kendall's stunning heels ahead.
The Unexpected Trend Fashion Girls Are Taking From NASCAR
As you've probably noticed designers have been taking cues from the race tracks recently with what we're calling race-car-inspired street wear. Celebs like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Baldwin have already given this look a test drive, and now we think it's time you grind your wardrobe up a gear with some of these pieces. Like the athleisure trend, fashion girls everywhere are embracing NASCAR-inspired pieces with the same street style appeal. Think sleek, high-quality leather jackets and chic side-striped trousers - a more elevated version of the casual tracksuit.
From the classic black and white checkered print to leather moto jackets, we're breaking down every race-car-inspired piece you need in your wardrobe stat. So, what are you waiting for? Start revving those engines and push your Spring wardrobe into full throttle.
Emily Ratajkowski's Backside Is on FULL Display Mode in This Swimsuit, and You Can't Deny It
Emily Ratajkowski's swimsuit line, Inamorata Swim, is stocked with some silhouettes so sexy, it's impossible to imagine wearing them, though, of course, you can shop them and try them on for size. Alternatively, you can muse along as Emily flaunts virtually every design she created on Instagram. Her latest modeling stint involved a handful of her suits in red snakeskin, which is definitely one of the most striking prints she offers.
Emily rocked the Leucadia Suit with a chunky gold Foundrae pendant, the Swami's maillot with a baseball cap and hoop earrings, the Neptune bottom with an adorable cropped tank, and the Cardiff one-piece with another dainty chain. You'll notice, we're sure, that there's one commonality here: an extremely high leg cut, which achieves an awfully cheeky thong bottom. Ahead, admire Emily's looks, then shop inspired swimsuits if you dare.
It's OK to Drool Over Cardi B's Maternity Style - It's Just That Good
Cardi B confirmed she was pregnant during a performance on Saturday Night Live after she appeared in a formfitting, white Christian Siriano dress, and, since then, the 25-year-old star has been embracing her baby bump. She's skipped curve-hugging clothing, opting instead for flowy pieces with details that pack a punch.
Throughout her pregnancy, the "Bodak Yellow" rapper continues to rock typically fun pieces, like the minidress with a super-poufy tulle skirt she wore to the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the sexy black dress and cropped trench coat she rocked during New York Fashion Week, and her Fashion Nova pieces, too. Let's take a look at Cardi's fabulous maternity style so far.
How 17 Different Brides Finally Fell in Love With a Wedding Dress
It's the ultimate love story, your seemingly endless search for The One. Armed with a mental list of qualities you care most about and a definitive set of dealbreakers, you hold out hope for the perfect match. Sometimes it only takes a few disappointments, often many, before you finally find the one that makes you feel good about yourself, shows off your best assets, and you know, hugs you just right.
Before you know it, you're saying "I do" to . . . a wedding dress. That's right. For those who've already found their soulmates, finding the perfect gown to walk down the aisle toward their betrothed can feel just as important. To inspire your search, our married POPSUGAR editors shared the stories of meeting their dresses.
Step into Summer With These 8 Sandals, All Available on Amazon!
Possibly the best part of warm weather is the excuse to wear sandals. They're so comfortable and allow you to show off your pedicure! With all the styles, heel heights, and colors available, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to shop, which is why we've curated some of our favorite sandals for Summer 2018. And if that wasn't enough, they're all available on Amazon. So now you have no excuse not to shop!
Forget Sweating in Denim This Summer - These 10 Chic Shorts Are All Under $20 on Amazon
We all know the feeling: sweating in uncomfortable denim shorts you can't wait to take off. This season, avoid that dreaded moment by investing in a pair of cool and comfy shorts. You don't have to spend a fortune, either, because we looked to Amazon. The megasite carries a plethora of stylish fashion finds we can't get enough of. From sporty picks to floral prints, all these choices are less than $20 - so you can treat yourself to more than just one. Take a look.
Lip Smacker's New Aguas Frescas Lip Balm Will Have You Feeling JUICY
In my mind, I'm sitting on a beach in Tulum, Mexico, sipping on an ice-cold horchata; in reality, I'm pressed against a half-broken AC venting my pits and cursing the heat. Luckily, Lip Smacker just dropped an adorable way to cool down: Aguas Frescas lip balm, anyone?
These four new pout-soothers are inspired by the fruit-infused Mexican drinks. Each one comes in a tropical flavor that's bound to make your mouth water. While you're at it, we guarantee the beverage-esque packaging will also make you smile. Read on to see each iteration, from Strawberry Orange to Guava Pineapple.
Can't pick a favorite? No biggie - you can scoop up the full collection for $16.
The 1 Taco Version You'll Be Eating Through the Cold Season
We're going to go ahead and estimate that every person who loves tacos equally loves taco salads in the Summer and taco soup in the Winter - not that we're suggesting you set aside any iteration of your favorite dish pending on the weather outside; that would be foolish. But there's also no denying that there's just something about cozying up to a bowl of steamy soup at the end of a long and cold workday. That's why we've rounded up 12 supereasy ways to make taco soup. There's something here for the slow-cooker-lover, the carnivore, the vegetarian, and even the fit and healthy one.
20 Times Jennifer Lopez's Music Videos Made Our Jaws Hit the Damn Floor
Jennifer Lopez has been in the music industry for almost 20 years, and every time she releases a new song, we know there is going to be a superhot music video to go along with it. Who can ever forget when she wore a fur coat with just underwear underneath in the video for "Jenny From the Block"? Or her multiple sultry moments in the classic "Waiting For Tonight"? The woman just knows exactly how to heat things up. It's an understatement to say we lose our breath every time we see her in a music video. In honor of that, we've put together a countdown of her sexiest moments, ranked from hot to even hotter, because we know better than to think J Lo's sexiness has reached its peak.
It's OK to Drool Over Cardi B's Maternity Style - It's Just That Good
Cardi B confirmed she was pregnant during a performance on Saturday Night Live after she appeared in a formfitting, white Christian Siriano dress, and, since then, the 25-year-old star has been embracing her baby bump. She's skipped curve-hugging clothing, opting instead for flowy pieces with details that pack a punch.
Throughout her pregnancy, the "Bodak Yellow" rapper continues to rock typically fun pieces, like the minidress with a super-poufy tulle skirt she wore to the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the sexy black dress and cropped trench coat she rocked during New York Fashion Week, and her Fashion Nova pieces, too. Let's take a look at Cardi's fabulous maternity style so far.
Christina Aguilera Took Us Down Music Video Memory Lane, and the Nostalgia Is SO Real
If you're in the mood to go down a rabbit hole of Christina Aguilera's music videos through the years, you've come to the right place. Christina sat down with W magazine to talk through her fashion and beauty looks from videos throughout her career, from the iconic "Genie in a Bottle" of 1999 (her first video ever!) to the stripped-down "Beautiful" video of 2002.
"The hair at that point in my life might have weighed more than I did," she laughed as she reminisced on her over-the-top wardrobe for "Lady Marmalade." Honestly, it's a treasure we don't really deserve, and it'll have you laughing about Abercrombie pants and craving an Xtina binge-listening session at the same time. Watch the pop icon describe her many styles in her own words above.
11 Love Tattoos in Spanish You're Going to Want to Get As Soon As Possible!
The great thing about love is that it comes in all shapes, sizes, and tattoo designs. But because we know you're looking for ink that'll be special and unique to you, we scoured Instagram to put together a list of photos featuring some of the most inspiring and empowering tattoos on love you'll ever see. The best part: they all nicely combine your connection to the Spanish language with your adoration for your significant other!
33 Sure Signs That You're an Empath
Do you pick up on the vibe of a room the moment you walk in? Can you almost always tell when someone is lying? Do you just generally have A LOT of feelings? You're probably an empath. You may be familiar with the spectrum of personality types between introverts and extroverts, but empaths are a whole other type of personality you may not know about. Empaths are often (but not always) more introverted, but the key aspect of the personality type is an empath's ability to relate to and absorb the feelings of other people. Empaths are extremely sensitive to their surroundings, and they are very affected by the energies of those around them.
There are positives to being an empath; for instance, they are sympathetic, caring, and understanding. They are intuitive and have the ability to influence the mood and energy around them. Empaths are good listeners and caretakers, and they are known for their compassion for others. However, being an empath definitely has its challenges. Because they are so sensitive, they can sometimes have difficulty differentiating other people's energy from their own. Commercials, movies, books, TV, the news, seeing the struggles of others - anything with an emotional element can affect empaths on a deeper level. Outside circumstances and situations can have a huge impact on the mental - and even physical - state of an empath. Empaths can unconsciously mirror other people's habits and moods, and for better or worse, they can soak up the energy around them. Empaths need to make sure to care for themselves in addition to caring for the rest of the world. Here are some signs you're an empath.
- You're extremely intuitive.
- It's easy for you to tell when people are lying.
- The energy of other people can change your own energy.
- You get "gut feelings" often (and they're almost always right).
- You often feel other people's pain.
- You consider yourself an introvert.
- You need to be near water.
- You often find yourself absorbing other people's emotions (both good and bad).
- You can get overwhelmed when surrounded by a lot of people.
- People feel like they can come to you when they have a problem.
- You're very sensitive.
- You love to be outside in nature because it revitalizes you.
- Being around certain people can make you feel drained.
- You feel physically or emotionally sick when seeing upsetting things in the news, on TV, or in movies.
- Your mood changes depending on who you're in a room with.
- You feel the same feeling around a specific person each time you see them.
- You have a big heart.
- You constantly seek answers for everything.
- You know that your energy can change the atmosphere around you.
- You go back and forth between being very expressive and very reclusive.
- You sometimes find yourself putting others' needs before your own.
- You value your alone time.
- You're a good listener.
- You deal with stomach issues and chronic fatigue due to emotional stress.
- You know and understand things, without needing any explanation.
- You are a creative type.
- You're a big animal-lover.
- You always need to know the truth and do not like deceit.
- You're a free spirit and find yourself daydreaming often.
- You're prone to mood swings (based on the environment you're in at the time).
- You're extremely open-minded and accepting of all people and lifestyles.
- You won't let a problem go until you find a satisfying solution.
- You sense things that other people miss.
The Royal Family's Nurseries Have Been Over-the-Top Dreamy For Years
With the news of baby number three on its way for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, what better time to look back at that very unique childhood environment: the royal nursery! It is where the next generation of the family forge their earliest memories and is often the liveliest, most informal, and creative heart of any royal household. It is usually comprised of a whole suite of rooms that take up a whole floor and include a kitchen, playroom, and bedrooms for the little princes and princesses, their nannies, and protection officers. Over the years, it's been offset by some very special al fresco additions, including the queen's most glamorous Wendy House ever, William and Harry's tree house, and George and Charlotte's shepherd's hut. It's time to take a tour . . .
Disney's New Treats Include a Millennial Pink Macaron, Because You Deserve Nice Things
Nothing brightens our day quite like new treats from the happiest place on Earth, especially when those sweet snacks follow the Disney trends we already know and love. Grab an Instagrammable snap in front of the Magic Kingdom's famous purple wall with a brand-new matching slushie, or take your millennial pink spirit jersey and mouse ears and add a matching macaron. The food (and photo) opportunities are endless!
Disney, as always, is here to give the people more of what they like. Ahead, catch all the newly released desserts and drinks, and see whether you'll find them at Disneyland or Disney World!
What Is Ginger Beer, Anyway?
For a refreshment so popular, it's interesting to note how many misconceptions exist about ginger beer. The drink, which originated in the mid-1700s in England, was first known as a fermented alcoholic beverage made from sugar, ginger, water, and a starter culture known as ginger beer plant. But today, the name "ginger beer" is actually a misnomer, as most commercial ginger beer is a soft drink and contains no alcohol (although a few brands, such as Crabbie's, do).
In comparison to ginger ale, ginger beer is more robust in flavor with a spicy quality. Ginger beer can be enjoyed alone, but it also plays a starring role in cocktails such as the dark and stormy and the Moscow Mule. How do you like to drink it?
26 Shrimp Recipes Perfect For Any Night of the Week
There are many reasons to love shrimp: its sweet flavor; succulent, snappy texture; and speed of preparation come to mind. Add to that the versatility of this freezer staple, and it's no surprise that it's a weeknight dinner superstar. Keep reading for everything from a lighter take on bang bang shrimp to a recipe for lemon butter shrimp so irresistible you'll want to mop up every last drop of its sauce.
I Left My Phone at Home For a Day and My Reaction Totally Shocked Me
In high school, my friends and I used to call each other's house phones and make sure our parents weren't listening on the other end. We would plan to go to a house party, print out directions on MapQuest (if you even know what that is), and head there following what a piece of paper told us. For me, thinking about prephone GPS times doesn't seem weird, but if I told a teenager that now, they wouldn't even know where to begin.
Although I'm definitely classified as a millennial, I'm a little on the older side. I got my first pager when I was 14 and my first brick Nokia phone when I was 16 - I didn't even own an iPhone until I was 21 and sipping on my first legal drink. Now my boyfriend has to practically pry it out of my hands to get me to pay attention to a TV show. So, yeah . . . you can say I am totally hooked.
I didn't even own an iPhone until I was 21 and sipping on my first legal drink. Now my boyfriend has to practically pry it out of my hands to get me to pay attention to a TV show.
Recently, a coworker and I were talking about challenging things we should try, like having someone else dress us for a week and so on. I realized the scariest thing I could do was live without my phone for a day. I figured, why not give it a try? You only live once, right? That is, if I actually survived it. I was supposed to try the task on a Monday, but it took me until Thursday to build up the courage to actually do it. Along with missing texts and social media moments, my number one concern was: how the hell am I going to get anywhere in a city where transportation apps reign supreme? It was the biggest issue holding me back.
Luckily, I live close enough to work that ride sharing apps are supercheap for me. I'm talking less than $4. Living without the luxury of them really scared me because I relied on them almost daily. I initially planned on walking to and from work, which only takes me about 30 minutes each way. I woke up on Thursday and glanced out the window to see it was foggy and sprinkling a little rain. That was all the convincing I needed to head back to bed for some extra snooze time. I decided to order a car from my app and then leave my phone behind at home. This was an odd feeling that left me stressing as I walked downstairs, thinking, "Is the driver trying to call me right now?" and "Am I going to get into the right car?" It was a total breeze.
I spent the car ride gazing out the window. My eyes locked on so many shops and restaurants I had never noticed before on a street I've driven down hundreds if not over a thousand times. I watched the other passengers on their phones scrolling away. Surprisingly, I didn't feel envious of it; instead, I felt appalled thinking that it's how I must look most mornings. I made it to work safe and sound. In my daily elevator ride, rather than staring at my screen, I looked at other people and even gave them a smile. They smiled back - what a nice feeling I had forgotten existed.
I headed straight to my computer and started working. Almost instantly, I forgot I didn't even have my phone. I worked so much faster and more efficiently not seeing my screen light up next to me, ripping my attention away from what I was doing. A handful of times throughout the day, my coworkers and deskmates kept asking me, "How are you? How is not having your phone?" Honestly, until someone asked me, I had completely forgotten. It was a total shock to me, and for a reason I couldn't explain, I did not care at all.
I looked at other people and even gave them a smile. They smiled back - what a nice feeling I had forgotten existed.
A colleague later asked me to join her at the mall after work, and I can never turn down a shopping trip. I went with her at the end of the day not feeling rushed to run home and get my phone. Instead, we were fully engaged in conversation, joking, and laughing. We then decided to head to another store that is fairly close to my house. It was then that I realized I had to get home at some point. I hitched an Uber ride with her to our next destination, thankfully just eight blocks from my apartment. That couldn't have worked out better for me.
We said our goodbyes and I started my short journey home. This was the weirdest time of the day because it was the first time I was alone. Normally, I listen to music or make a quick call to my dad on my walks. This time it was just me, myself, and I. I found myself people watching and smiling at those who walked by. Then it hit me: I'd had one of the happiest and most productive days I'd seen in a while.
Admittedly, the second I walked through my front door, I rushed to checked my phone. It was flooded with texts, missed sales calls, and a ton of social media notifications. I quickly glanced at them and made sure everyone knew I was alive. Then I decided to head to my favorite workout class . . . without my phone! For me, the task was over, but I realized I didn't actually miss my phone that much. I was able to make it to and from work just fine. Knowing that I could walk or hop on a bus if needed helped me debunk my fear of not having access to a ride app. I thought about the days when I didn't even have GPS and was printing out instructions on my old PC computer. It seemed so silly that I thought one app could rule my life.
Then it hit me: I'd had one of the happiest and most productive days I'd seen in a while.
I worked so much better without distractions. I found myself engaging in way more conversations than usual. I smiled at strangers. Feeling so motivated, I even wanted to exercise. Who was I?! I went into this experiment with a negative state of mind. I thought I was going to have a sh*t time and miss out on moments that in the end don't even matter. In reality, it may have been one of the best things I ever did. It's the little moments where you're in a car, an elevator, or walking down the street where you forget to look up and absorb the world.
4 Crucial Lessons Minimalism Has Taught Me
When I graduated university and came back to the room I grew up in, I realized I had the massive job of cleaning ahead of me. I've always been quite a messy person and I used to hate cleaning. I had huge collections of perfume samples, mini shampoos, pencils, and scrap paper.
As I stood there, barely able to walk into my room, I remembered a documentary I watched on Netflix last year about minimalism. I really liked the ideas when I watched it, but didn't make the effort to apply them at the time. So I put it on again to get some motivation.
After watching about 20 minutes, I got kind of excited to start cleaning. I put on some headphones and let the audio keep playing as I started to clean up my closet. I found this very motivational, so as I continued to clean through the week, I would listen to different YouTube videos and audiobooks about minimalism.
I'm far from being a minimalist, but the simple techniques I've learned so far have already improved my outlook on cleaning (and life) so much. It's really about simplifying life and prioritizing happiness.
Here are the most useful tips I've learned:
- For every object you own, ask yourself, "Does this bring me joy?" If the answer is no, then donate or throw away the item. If the answer is yes, but you don't have any room for it, thank the item for the good times and then say goodbye. As stupid as this sounds, it actually works! Obviously, if the item brings you lots of joy and you have space for it, then keep it! This is a tip from minimalism master Marie Kondo.
- Start by letting go of the things that you have the least amount of emotional attachment to (the closet is a good place to start).
- If you're having trouble letting go of an item that you love but don't use, think about how it could be enjoyed by someone else rather than sitting alone, all sad and dusty in your closet.
- Enjoy the process of seeing immediate results as you clean!
As I kept cleaning, I started to realize that physical baggage was also emotional baggage. I realized how I was literally going through my past, deciding which memories to keep and which ones to let go of. It was also a time for self-reflection. In my past objects and clothing, I could see who I once was - how I've changed and what's remained the same. In this way, cleaning is fun; you rediscover treasures, learn about yourself, and clear your mind. And really, our environment is just a reflection of our mind - after all, we do create the spaces around us. Minimalism isn't about owning nothing; it is about reflecting on each item you own and its effect on your state of mind.
If you allow it, the principles of minimalism expand far beyond keeping your room clean into every aspect of life. The question "Does this bring me joy?" is so important not only for tidying up, but for everything we do.
OOOH! Disney Fans Are Already Flipping Out Over These Adorable Alien Popcorn Buckets
The claw has chosen . . . this adorable alien popcorn bucket! Disneyland annual pass-holders have an opportunity to purchase a truly out-of-this-world alien popcorn bucket inspired by Toy Story starting on April 24. The $20 bucket is a part of Disneyland's Pixar Fest, which began in April and includes even more adorable foods and a Monsters, Inc. popcorn bucket.
Up until May 24, you can find these "little green men" at many popcorn carts throughout Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure, including in Frontierland, New Orleans Square, Tomorrowland, and Buena Vista Street. Simply present your annual pass to purchase your bucket and when you want to claim your $1 refills. That's right - these buckets come with unlimited refills for $1 through June 21. Talk about an intergalactic deal!
Whether You Want to Hike or Relax, Here Are 50 States of Beautiful Beaches
When I go to the beach, it's to relax and get some sun. When some of my friends go to the beach, it's to grab a kayak and get out on the water. Everyone has their different agendas when they hit the beach, so it's a good thing the US has plenty of options for providing a whole host of activities. This selection of the best beaches in every state doesn't necessarily include all relaxing beaches or all beaches filled with adventure, but each one has something great about it that makes it worth visiting. Next time you hit the road for vacation, consider making a stop at one of these beautiful locations.
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!
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!
How Traveling Has Taught Me to Calm the F*ck Down
My fiancé looked up at me with apologetic eyes before returning his gaze to the map screen on his phone. Our train had arrived in Venice on a hot but beautiful afternoon, and we decided to walk to our hotel near Piazza San Marco. Two hours later, there we were - suitcases in tow and still no idea where we were going.
I was always dubbed high strung growing up, and nothing prodded my anxiety more than getting lost in an unfamiliar place. As a kid, it was a fear of misplacing my parents at a crowded event, and the uneasiness continued into my adult years. As my love for travel grew, I would spend hours detailing routes and printing maps to ensure I always knew exactly how to find my way. Three years ago, if you asked me how I would react to walking in circles for hours in a city where I only barely spoke the language, I would've replied: straight-up panic mode.
But I wasn't panicking. Instead, I was seeing flashes from experiences past. I thought about the time I was, as a junior in college, meeting my mom in New York City and her flight was delayed three hours. I had never been in an airport that large by myself. Everyone seemed to know where they were going and flew past me in haze of dark colors and designer luggage. Never having actually taken a taxi and knowing nothing about airport taxi protocol, I tried to step into the street and hail one outside airport pickup (after all, I had seen how people do it on TV). He swerved, honked, and barreled past me. Defeated, I went back inside and waited. (There might have been tears. It's all a blur.)
I thought about the time my then-boyfriend and I got stuck in a massive rainstorm in a tiny Thai village about a 30-minute walk from our hotel. I was over my taxi naivety at this point, but here, they were not a thing. The only way back was our own two feet. I also remembered the time our train dropped us off in the pitch black night at the foot of a mountain, with nothing but a winding road to lead us up to the coastal Italian town where we were staying. I could barely see my hands in front of me, and that old familiar feeling of panic began to creep in.
But here's the thing. All these experiences, as debilitating as they seemed at the time, didn't squash my fervor for exploration. In fact, they shaped it. On my New York visit, I would go on to fall so in love with the city that in five years' time, I would move there. In Thailand, an incredibly kind bar owner would take pity on us sopping wet traveler, and open his doors early to take us in. He opened a few beers and we sat for hours exchanging stories and learning more about each other's cultures. And in that sleepy Italian town, where the journey to find our Airbnb literally made my hair stand on end, I would get engaged to the love of my life.
I learned that some of my greatest memories stemmed from uncomfortable beginnings. Flights get delayed, weather forecasts can be horribly incorrect, and trains will drop you off in some pretty questionable places. Sometimes, regardless of how hard you study a map, you just get lost. After hours of dead ends, we finally made it to our Venetian hotel. But I never got upset; I just enjoyed the ride.
2 Recipes From Joanna Gaines's New Cookbook That You Simply Have to Try For Yourself
Anyone who's ever watched HGTV's Fixer Upper will immediately recognize Joanna Gaines's style in her new cookbook, Magnolia Table. It looks like the homes she designed on the show: clean lines, a lot of white space, bright pages and photography, and a general black-and-white aesthetic.
And it's perfect timing for this book too! Fans who were sad to hear there won't be new episodes on HGTV anytime soon, since the finale aired in April, can bring a dose of the Gaines family into their kitchens.
Magnolia Table is filled with family stories and memories surrounding meals; individual favorites (for Chip, it's anything breakfast); diverse recipes that celebrate Joanna's diverse background: Texan (queso dip, fried chicken, Gaines chili . . .), Korean (her mom's bulgogi - find the recipe below), and Lebanese (her grandfather's recipe for Syrian doughnuts and fatayer); and some recipes that are used in their restaurant by the same name in Waco, TX, like her specialty biscuits and chocolate chip cookies (see below for the original recipe).
In the introduction, Joanna shares her own food journey, from the first meal she made for Chip in their first home (a spaghetti-and-meatballs dish with bread and butter that didn't go so well) to how she began to explore recipes from his family, like the Gaines's chili, and sharing recipes from her family with him, like the "Stevens family breakfast tradition: toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwiches dipped in black coffee" . . . which sounds delicious. Everything she describes sounds delicious. When she's writing about food and recipes, it's like she's staging them for readers in a way, just like she staged homes at the end of each episode of Fixer Upper for the full effect.
Fast-forward to when Chip and Joanna had four children under four who they had to feed and she turned to casseroles, slow-cookers, and "big pots of hearty soup that could simmer for a while." These types of meals are still her go-tos when she's having a busy week.
As her kids grew, they began to voice what they liked, and so meals became more elaborate. The kitchen counter and dining table are a focal point of their home. Joanna tries to tailor meals every week based both on the family's schedule and what's growing in their garden.
Even after Fixer Upper exploded, their family gained international fame, and their businesses continued to expand, she still prioritized time to cook meals from scratch in the evenings. In fact, that's how she de-stresses. "I stick my hand in a bowl of flour to begin to make pie crust, or peel some potatoes, and all of a sudden my thoughts slow down. I begin to unwind," she writes.
Cooking isn't a chore to her, and she suggests that a change in perspective can make it something we all look forward to.
She divides her cookbook into several simple and useful sections. She begins with what she usually has in her pantry and the essential tools for cooking, from measuring utensils to biscuit cutters, spatulas to a large cast-iron skillet. Then she has her recipes divided by meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and starters, and dessert, along with two special sections dedicated to soups and salads and side dishes.
"I've learned to approach planning dinner the same way I plan interiors," she writes. She always thinks about layers and textures. First, she'll choose a main dish, and then the sides that would complement it. And always, always dessert, like her favorite lemon pie recipe!
Try out Joanna's original recipes from Magnolia Table ahead.
Mom's Bulgogi With Cucumber Kimchi Salad
"My mom grew up in Seoul, South Korea, with a mom who was an amazing cook. I can personally vouch for this because in the 1980s my grandmother and uncle moved in with us in our home in Wichita, Kansas, where I grew up. What I remember most about that time is my grandmother cooking amazing food nonstop. When my grandmother passed away I know my mom regretted never having really learned from her how to cook proper Korean dishes. She ended up adopting a much more American style of cooking and by the time my sisters and I were on the scene, she had long since perfected a few dishes for my steak-and-potato-loving dad. But around that same time she had a lot of Korean friends living nearby, and she learned enough from them that by the time my kids were born, she was often preparing traditional Korean dishes for them, like seaweed soup.
It's funny to me that they're growing up eating much more authentic Korean food than I ever did. Mom's bulgogi, though, is more of an American-Korean hybrid, much sweeter than traditional bulgogi, and she serves it on a bed of white rice. Mom has us over once a month and this is what she always makes. It's my kids' very favorite food in the world, so I knew I had to include it in this book. Getting the recipe on paper was a bit of a challenge. My mom had no idea what the measurements were or how to describe what she does, because, as she said, she just does it. (Writing this book made me realize just how alike we are in this way.) But eventually, we figured it out, and I'm so glad we did because now I've captured the blueprint to what will always be a beloved meal for my kids.
We've never had Mom's bulgogi with anything other than her cucumber kimchi salad, which has a clean, fresh flavor that perfectly complements the sweet barbecued beef."
Prep: 20 minutes, plus 4 to 5 hours marinating
Cook: 10 to 20 minutes
Cool: none
Servings: Makes 6 to 8 servings
Bulgogi Ingredients
3 cups packed light brown sugar
1½ cups soy sauce
5 tablespoons sparkling dessert wine, such as Banfi Rosa Regale, or sparkling grape juice
3 tablespoons sesame oil
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), chopped, plus 1/4 cup sliced for serving
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 to 5 pounds beef tenderloin, rib-eye, top sirloin, or sirloin steak, thinly sliced (see Note)
Cucumber Kimchi Salad Ingredients
2 English cucumbers, peeled if desired, cut into 1/2-inch dice
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), thinly sliced on the diagonal
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 to 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes; see Tip)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
For Serving
Steamed white rice
1 to 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion (light and dark green parts) as needed, for garnish
3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted, for garnish
- Marinate the bulgogi: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, wine, sesame oil, green onions, garlic, and pepper until well combined. Add the beef and coat it completely in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 5 hours.
- To make the cucumber kimchi salad: In a medium bowl, combine the cucumbers, green onions, garlic, gochugaru, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and salt to taste and stir gently. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare a hot grill. If the pieces of beef are so small that they may fall through the grates, use a grilling skillet or place a sheet of foil on the grill.
- Grill the beef on both sides until medium-well, 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Don't crowd the skillet or foil, so do this in batches if necessary. As you finish each batch, transfer it to a serving platter and continue with the remaining beef.
- Serve the bulgogi on top of steamed rice. Garnish with green onion and toasted sesame seeds and spoon the cucumber kimchi salad alongside.
- Store the leftover bulgogi and cucumber kimchi salad in separate covered containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
NOTE: My mom usually has the butcher slice the beef for this dish when she buys it. If you live near a Korean market, they often sell packages of sliced rib-eye or top sirloin; sometimes they're even marked specifically for bulgogi. If you buy big pieces to cut yourself, freeze the meat for about 30 minutes before cutting so that it's easier to slice thinly and cut against the grain.
TIP: Gochugaru, or Korean red pepper, is commonly used in kimchi. It adds precisely the right amount of heat and unique flavor to the cucumber salad. Authentic Korean brands are readily available at Asian grocery stores or online, and the McCormick spice company packages it as well.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
"My dad has an intense sweet tooth, just like me. One afternoon when I was around ten years old, Dad got a hankering and he enlisted me to help him make Toll House chocolate chip cookies. That was the first time he and I had ever baked together. Since then, whenever I make chocolate chip cookies, including the ones from this recipe, I think of him and that special afternoon we spent together in the kitchen. I developed this recipe over the years, after experimenting with a few classics and having them come out flat every time. I wanted something that was chunky, beautiful, and also delicious. In the end, one big change I made was to cut back on the butter. I do truly believe that butter makes everything better and no one is more surprised than I am about how amazing these taste even though they're made with less of the good stuff than most traditional chocolate chip cookies."
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: Under 30 minutes
Cool: 1 hour
Servings: Makes about 40 cookies
Ingredients
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 heaping teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (see Tip)
- Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a large bowl with a handheld electric mixer), beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs and beat until blended. Add the vanilla and beat until blended.
- Turn the mixer off and add the flour mixture to the bowl. Mix on medium just until the flour is mixed in, then turn the mixer to high speed for a few seconds to pull the dough together; it will be chunky.
- Add the chocolate chips and beat on high for about 5 seconds to thoroughly and quickly mix in the chips.
- Drop by large spoonfuls on the lined baking sheet; don't flatten them. Bake until lightly browned on top, 10 to 11 minutes. Cool on the pan on a rack for 1 minute, then transfer the cookies to the rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Store the cookies in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to three days.
TIP: Depending on what you're in the mood for, you can add ½ cup more or less chocolate than what is called for.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. All images (c) Amy Neunsinger.
11 Fascinating Facts About Walt Disney
There's an ever-present curiosity about the man behind Mickey Mouse. It seems there's so much we don't know about the larger-than-life entrepreneur and creative genius. If you're hoping to learn unexpected details from Walt's life, the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco is a good place to start. They shared 11 facts about Walt Disney you might not know - including some sweet stories about his relationship with his wife, Lillian. Check them out now!
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!
Royal Wedding Menus Are Just as Lavish as You Might Think!
While modern royal wedding menus are not quite in the same league as Henry VIII's first wedding feast, which featured a roast swan stuffed with a lark, stuffed with a sparrow - Tudor turducken, anyone? - they are still every bit as swanky as you might imagine. Traditionally, royal brides have dishes especially created for and named after them, and not so long ago, it wasn't uncommon for a nine-course meal to last for hours. However, in recent years, there have been a few changes made to some royal traditions, as well as some more unusual choices when it comes to the wedding banquet. Here are some of the traditional, and not-so-traditional, meals that have been served at British royal weddings over the years.
These 61 Map Tattoos Will Give You Major Wanderlust
If you feel like you're always halfway out the door and ready for the next adventure, then you probably have some serious wanderlust. Show your love for seeing every place imaginable with map tattoos that display the beauty of the world we live in.
25 Nifty Home Products That Will Help You Save Major Space
Living in a small home or owning a lot of belongings can make the task of organizing a real challenge. While it helps to declutter by tossing out things you don't need, you can also create more space by knowing how to manage your space. Luckily, there are a ton of clever products that can help you effectively organize your home, from ottomans to over-the-door ironing boards. We've rounded up some of the niftiest multifunctional home goods out there so that you'll have more room for yourself.
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.
10 Tips For Keeping Your Fig Tree Fit as a Fiddle
If your heart wants a fiddle leaf fig tree but your black thumb is standing in the way, San Francisco Bay Area editor and garden consultant Julie Chai can help! While she considers fiddle leaf fig trees to be reasonably low-maintenance, she insists on tried-and-true methods for keeping them healthy and beautiful. Anxious to master the art of indoor tree survival? See Julie's 10 tips for fiddle leaf fig tree success!
- POPSUGAR Home: What should people consider when searching for a spot to place their fiddle leaf fig tree?
Julie Chai: Fiddle leaf figs like it bright, so choose a spot where it'll get plenty of light for as much of the day as possible. Just make sure your tree won't have sun shining directly on it since that can damage leaves.
- PS: What do brown spots on leaves signify? Is there a way to stop the brown spots from spreading?
JC: Brown spots could indicate a number of problems, but they're generally related to too much or too little watering, and either of those could lead to disease. You'd need to troubleshoot, starting with making sure you're watering with the right frequency. Once you've resolved the source, which is most often water-related, the brown spots should stop.
- PS: If the large leaves begin to collect dust, is it important to wipe them? Does that really keep them from getting enough sun?
JC: You definitely want to keep your tree's leaves clean. Though dusty leaves could impact your plant's ability to absorb light to a degree, you'd need to accumulate quite a layer for that to be a major concern on its own. A bigger problem is that the dust could interfere with the plant's "breathing," and could also invite fungus and bacteria that may lead to pests and disease. I wipe my large-leaved plants with a soft, damp cloth - old cotton t-shirts are perfect for this! You could also use a duster. I even rinse my plants in the shower or hose them off outside a couple of times a year. If you do this, be sure you use lukewarm water - plants don't like cold showers any more than we do! If you're rinsing outside, do it on a warm day and dry the plants in indirect sunlight.
- PS: How often should these trees be watered?
JC: How often you need to water is the biggest question in gardening, whether indoors or out. The answer is: it depends. As a general rule for a fiddle leaf fig in an 8-, 10-, 12-, or 14-inch diameter pot (these are common sizes for this plant), you'll want to water when the top inch or so of soil is dry, but the soil directly below that is moist. The easiest way to tell if it's dry is to stick your finger in the soil.
The temperature and humidity in your home will affect how quickly the soil dries. After a few weeks, you'll have a sense of how often that happens, and then you can get on a schedule. Just remember to water consistently, and pay extra attention if it gets hot in the Summer, or if you have the heater on in the Winter, as you may need to adjust your schedule.
- PS: Is there a way to ensure that the tree grows multiple branches instead of forming a top-heavy silhouette?
JC: Fiddle leaf figs are typically sold as either a standard (with a single trunk and a leafy top) or a multi-branched tree (with evenly spaced branches up and down the trunk), so look for the form you prefer when you buy one. They do grow quickly - in average environments, this can be two to three feet a year! Prune annually to maintain the size you want - early Spring is the best time for pruning. These trees will also lean towards the light, so rotate your tree every few weeks to keep a uniform shape.
- PS: If a fiddle leaf fig tree is dropping leaves, what does that mean?
JC: Leaf drop is generally caused by getting too much or too little water, or being exposed to cold air (from a drafty spot) or too much warm air (as from a heater). If your tree's dropping leaves, first check its location and move it if necessary. Remember that these trees are native to warm, humid, tropical places where they get consistent moisture and even temperatures. Fiddle leaf figs are pretty easy to grow and don't need special pampering, but the more you can mimic their natural environment, the happier they'll be.
- PS: Will moving the tree around the house or even outside harm it?
JC: You can move your tree around your home, provided you give it bright light wherever you place it - it's not touchy like some of the other ficus trees that often drop their leaves when moved. They can't handle cold weather, but in warm climates, you can grow these trees outdoors for part or all of the year. In most cases, though, they tend to look better indoors than out.
- PS: What if the roots start to push through the bottom of the pot or poke out above the soil?
JC: If you've had your tree for a year or more and you see a lot of roots creeping out of the bottom of the pot, it's time to either repot into a larger container or root prune. Both of which are easy – I promise!
To repot, take your tree outside or into the garage, and set out a tarp. Gently lay the plant on its side, then ease it out of the pot. If the plant is big, you may need to have a friend help you! Do not yank or force the plant from its container; if it doesn't come out easily, I would firmly tap the container all around to help release the root ball. Then, replant in a pot that is a couple of inches bigger than the one it came from, and fill in with fresh potting soil.
If you want to keep your tree in the same container, you can root prune - which is equally easy, though a bit messier. After removing the plant from its pot, stand the plant upright and use a pruning saw or an old, sharp knife (not one you use in the kitchen) to slice off about an inch of the rootball, all around the sides. Even if you're doing this for the first time, it's really simple - the key is to remove no more than 20 percent of the root ball in any given year. After pruning, place it back in its pot, and fill in with new soil.
- PS: What should people look for when buying a fiddle leaf fig tree?
JC: When shopping, look for a healthy tree - one that has even, green leaves with no discoloration, signs of pests or disease, or masses of roots coming out of the bottom of the pot. Don't be afraid to really inspect the plant, looking closely at both sides of the leaves, where the branches meet the trunk. You're making an investment - especially if you're buying a larger plant - and want to start off with as healthy a tree as possible!
- PS: What are the best places to look for fiddle leaf fig trees?
JC: I recommend buying from your local independent nursery. You can trust that they take good care of their inventory and have knowledgeable staff who can answer your plant questions. Even if your nursery doesn't carry fiddle leaf figs, many are happy to special order one for you from a wholesaler - one I work with a lot and love is San Francisco Foliage/LA Tropicals. They supply to retail nurseries in many of the Western states.
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