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.
samedi 19 mai 2018
The 44 Best Tween Gifts of 2018 Are Here
Not little kids, but not quite teens, tweens can be a difficult group to please when it comes to shopping. But with our list of gifts, you're sure to get a smile from the biggest kids (but don't call them that!) in your life. From gifts for sports fanatics to mini fashionistas, these presents are perfect for your middle schooler who can't wait to grow up but still can't resist a cool toy or two.
- Additional reporting by Eleanor Sheehan
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
How 1 Couple Built the Dreamiest Tiny Cabin For Just $700 - Yes, You Read That Correctly
Our undying obsession with tiny homes has officially been taken to the next level, thanks to one crafty couple in Montana. Photographer Alla Ponomareva and her husband, Garret, recently constructed their own teeny-tiny cabin in the woods, and it only cost them about $700 and took three weeks, from start to finish. Yes, you read that correctly - we're just as impressed as you are!
Designed by tiny-home expert Derek Diedricksen, the A-frame dwelling only takes up 80 square feet and is packed with gorgeous features. Situated on top of a wooden deck with added room for chairs and plants, the triangular cabin has one wall that's both transparent (for ample natural light) and retractable (so it lifts up to open the indoor space a bit more). Plus, the roof has a solar panel attached, in case cabin visitors need to charge their phone at night.
The interior is decorated with a mint and coral motif and includes two beds that can be either separate or pushed together. By the window, there's shelf space for plenty of belongings like plates, utensils, and a portable burner. As the bite-size abode was only intended to be a guest house for Alla and Garret's actual home nearby, it doesn't have running water or a toilet, though those amenities are available in the woods nearby.
So how on earth did this dreamy masterpiece only cost $700 to put together? Alla explained on her blog that she and her husband had tons of leftover materials from past projects, such as nails, windows, and boards, which they upcycled when constructing the cabin. Sounds like it totally pays off to have a "junk" pile of old materials lying around if you're a DIY addict like this couple!
Ready to be mesmerized by the cutest tiny cabin ever? Read on for more pictures of this mini slice of secluded paradise, and be sure to visit Alla's blog for more details on how they got the impressive job done.
What Mister Rogers Did For This Young Fan in a Coma Will Make You Ache That He's Not Here Anymore
The following story by Beth Usher was originally published on her Facebook page.
When I was five years old, I suffered up to one hundred seizures a day. During my seizures, I would often fall and bang my head on the floor or whatever hard object presented in my descent, and the only way for my mom to shower and dress for work without worrying was to prop me up with soft pillows and place me in front of the TV. One time she turned on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and I didn't have a single seizure for the entire duration of the show. Something in his voice calmed the electrical circuits in my injured brain and allowed my body to rest.
Mister Rogers, my friend, called to ask me about my brain surgery.
My mother and I performed this ritual every work day for two years with great success. I quickly began to consider Mister Rogers a real friend, and would talk back to the TV screen, saying things like, "Yes, I will be your good neighbor!" So it came as no surprise that my sweet mother called Mister Rogers' TV studio in Pittsburgh in preparation for my upcoming brain surgery. My neurologists had determined that I had somehow contracted a very rare brain disease called Rasmussen's Encephalitis. They theorized that a slow growing virus was killing brain cells in the left side of my brain, causing life-altering epileptic seizures. The only cure was an operation called a hemispherectomy, or the removal of one half of my brain. My mother told Mister Rogers' assistant that the show was a sanctuary for me and that I believed Mister Rogers was speaking directly to me when he sang his song, "Won't You Be My Neighbor." She explained about my seizures and upcoming surgery and the fact that that the seizures would subside during his entire show. My mother hoped that Mister Rogers' assistant would send an autographed photo of my TV friend, or even a note from him assuring me that I was going to be OK.
One week before my surgery, the telephone rang. My mother spoke for a few minutes and told me that a friend wanted to talk to me. I remember feeling excited that someone calling themselves a friend was calling me (friendships were difficult for me at the time). I said hello, heard a familiar voice, and immediately felt at ease. Mister Rogers, my friend, asked me about my brain surgery. I told him that I was scared but wanted the seizures to go away; I told him that I wanted the kids in my class to like me and play with me; I asked him about the members of his neighborhood who I had come to love - King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. We talked for nearly an hour. Before I hung up the phone, I said, "I love you, Mister Rogers."
During our seven-hour drive to Johns Hopkins Childrens' Hospital in Baltimore, my mom and I listened to the many cassette audio tapes sent to me by Mister Rogers a few days after his call. His soft voice discussed so many topics that concerned young children. My favorite cassette was the one where he sang, "I like you just the way you are." While in the hospital, I endured back-to-back medical tests to determine if my body could survive the 12-hour surgery to remove my entire left hemisphere. I was confused and scared, but believed my doctors and parents wouldn't do anything to hurt me. In between the tests, I was able to spend time with my beloved brother. We played games and watched movies. I didn't realize it at the time, but my older brother was worried he might never see me again. He was only ten years old.
The very last thing I said to my parents as I was wheeled into the operating room was, "No more seizures."
My surgery went well, and my doctor told my parents they could see me in the recovery room. I lay swollen with tubes and wires in and all around my head and body. My parents had faith in my surgeon and neurologist, but later that night, for reasons that have never been explained, I fell into a deep coma.
Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
With the sounds of life-support machines beeping, IV fluids being pumped into my body, nurses and doctors running in and out of my room, and my parents softly sobbing, you could hear Mister Rogers singing "I like you just the way you are" from a cassette player in my ICU room. My mother was called from the room to the nurse's station where she was handed the phone. It was the Mister Rogers, and he wanted to know how I was doing. My mom gave him the bleak news that although the surgery went well, I suffered severe brain stem swelling and was in a coma. They talked a little more and he told her that he would pray for me. What we didn't know was that Mister Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian Minister.
For the following two weeks, Mister Rogers called every day to ask about my status and to pray with my mother. One morning he called and asked her if it would be OK if he visited me the next afternoon. My mother told him that sadly I was still in a coma and wouldn't know he was there. He said he would come anyway. He asked that she not tell anyone he was coming because he wanted it to be a private visit and didn't want the press to be there.
The next afternoon, Mister Rogers flew from Pittsburgh to Baltimore with only a clarinet case in tow. A minister friend from Baltimore picked him up from the airport and drove him directly to the hospital. My parents, brother, grandparents, and many other family members took turns keeping vigil by my bedside, each trying in their own way to wake me from my coma. They immediately recognized the tall man with the kind face as he stepped inside my room. Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and my favorite, Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
I'd love to end this story by telling you it was in that moment that I emerged from my coma, but that wasn't the case. After his visit with me and several more minutes with my family, Mister Rogers' minister friend drove him back to the airport and he flew back to his hometown in Pennsylvania, taking along an empty clarinet case. What I can tell you, though, is that when I did wake up, Mister Rogers became my real friend and not just a TV friend. We remained close and shared many conversations, birthday wishes, and milestones for the following twenty years until his death on February 27, 2003.
I Never Thought Much About My Baby's Play Mat - Until I Discovered This One
It was one of those first few days home from the hospital with my newborn baby that I remember thinking, "What am I supposed to do with her?"
I figured out how to feed her, and I knew to give her plenty of naps, but it was those wakeful moments in the day - that grew longer and more frequent with each passing week - that left me feeling paralyzed. This was crucial time for early brain development, and I was squandering it!
As an anxious, do-gooding millennial mom, I would plop her down on the rainbow-colored, safari-themed play mat I'd gotten at my baby shower and scatter a bunch of plush toys around her . . . and then search Google for answers. Often, the results were overwhelming. One day, I'd panic that I hadn't been doing enough to boost her, say, fine-motor skills and then submit her to a baby grasp-the-rattle boot camp, and the next day, I'd freak out about how someone like me, with no experience or background, was supposed to introduce gross-motor or language or sensory stimulation.
After just a week, I'm already trying not to feel guilty about the amazing things my baby (and I!) could have done with this mat months sooner.
Turns out, Jessica Rolph had the same frustrations when she was a new mom. "I was dissatisfied with the toys we had, and then I thought about the play mat," she told POPSUGAR. "It has so much potential to be a platform for learning for the first 12 months, but I wasn't happy with what was on the market."
So she created her own, The Play Gym by Lovevery ($140), which was designed by a team of experts and pediatric neuroscientists.
It debuts today, but I've already given it a test-drive with my second baby, who's 8 months old. After just a week with it in our living room, I'm already trying not to feel guilty about the amazing things she (and I!) could have done with this mat months sooner. Unlike my previous play gym, which I now realize was the definition of overstimulation, this one is exactly what a baby needs at each stage of the first year of life.
It's playtime with purpose, grounded in science. (Plus, the sustainably sourced wooden legs and gorgeous watercolor design are tailor-made for Instagram.)
You might still be thinking, "It's just a play gym!" I promise you this one is so much more - it's both beneficial for babies and profoundly helpful for today's eager parents. Read on to better understand why.
8 Beautiful Life Lessons I've Learned From Raising Children With Autism
This post written by Eric Williams was originally posted to YourTango.
Autism is more than a diagnosis.
In honor of National Autism Awareness Month, not only do I want to shed light on autism and how it affects children and families, but I want to acknowledge the many beautiful life lessons I've learned as a parent of children with autism.
My wife and I have identical twin boys who just celebrated their 10th birthday. They began their autism journey born eight weeks premature with a week in the neonatal intensive care unit. In addition to the diagnosis of autism, our kids have a medical history of asthma, attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, and pica. This is our experience; however, not all families of autism have the same narrative.
Autism has had moments when it was overwhelming and took an emotional toll on the family. Marriage has been difficult at times. We've had times where we didn't know what to do to manage the behaviors. Professional supports have not always been available or of good quality. And we've depleted savings' accounts to manage the high costs of medical treatments. Again, this is not the same narrative for all families of autism.
Over the past decade, I've been able to observe our family as a whole and note how our autism interacts with the rest of the world. Although our story of autism had a bit of a rough start, our story is far from a sad story.
Raising children with autism taught us life lessons along the way that have shaped the way we view autism, parent autism, and engage our autism with the rest of the world.
Here are 8 lessons we've learned as parents of children with autism:
1. Autism requires unconditional love.
"Love is not 'if' or 'because'. Love is 'anyway' and 'even though' and 'in spite of'." - Author Unknown
Parenting autism comes with an abundance of opportunities to love during the fun times, meltdowns, sick days, and "code browns" (just think poop in all the places but the toilet). I have been blessed with countless opportunities to love without limitations or conditions and receive love from my sons in a way unique to them.
2. Autism is inspiring.
"Life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we react to it." - Dennis Kimbro.
It was autism that encouraged me to pursue a doctoral degree, improve my physical health, get more involved in the autism community, strengthen my faith, and pursue blogging as a hobby. Both my wife and I serve on a board of directors for an autism nonprofit. Autism, in many ways, has been a gift to my family, my community, and people across the world.
3. Autism is challenging.
"Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations." - Author Unknown
Autism isn't challenging just for the sake of making life difficult. Autism is challenging because it grooms us to be beautiful people for our loved ones, community, and the world around us. We've learned to embrace the challenges and look ahead to the destination awaiting the boys and us.
4. Autism is hopeful.
"Everyday bring a new beginning and a new ending." - Author Unknown.
It's common to hear that if you see one child with autism, then you see one child with autism. That, too, has been applied to each day we live with autism. For every day we live with autism, we live only that day with autism. Remaining hopeful that the next day will be better has been helpful and has proven to be true.
5. Autism is relationship building.
"The irony of a parent and child relationship is that at any given moment, you never know who is teaching whom." - Linda Poindexter
Autism isn't a one-way relationship where my wife and I or professionals are teaching the boys to live in our world. In many situations, they are teaching us to live in their world. Collectively, we construct our own world and march to our own drum.
6. Autism is beautiful.
"Beauty isn't about having a pretty face. It is about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart, and most importantly, a beautiful soul." - Author Unknown
There's nothing more beautiful than watching my twins defy their diagnoses and engaging in a social interaction, communicating a word or request, and independently feeding, bathing, and dressing themselves. Although their minds work differently, their beauty shines through with every small success they achieve navigating our society.
7. Autism involves self-sacrifice.
"You don't have love without sacrifice; you can't have sacrifice without love." - Karen Kingsbury
Finances, friendships, career, and restful nights are past sacrifices in our world of autism. Sacrificing is not a bad word that means we are giving up our lives for our children. It simply means we love our kids enough to prioritize their special needs above our personal preferences in the name of love.
8. Autism exemplifies teamwork.
"Teamwork is the secret that makes common people achieve uncommon results." - Ifeanyi Enoch Onuoha
We initially felt alone upon the initial diagnosis. As time progressed, we've developed a team of professionals, neighbors, friends, and family members that have joined the Williams Team. Although some people are seasonal helpers, the team works because common people step up to help our kids overcome the inherent challenges of the diagnosis.
Autism serves as a reminder of just how much some people's differences require they fight to be accepted, seen, and respected as a person. It's a diagnosis that sets us apart from others and mandates advocacy to be accepted as equals.
Autism has shown me just how beautiful my wife and kids are even during the daily challenges. Together, we've seen the beautiful souls of others that provide services to our children daily. We no longer experience life as being limited by or fighting against autism. Nor do we question why this happened to us. We now experience life as living with autism and serving the autism community.
Dr. Eric A. Williams and his wife have been married for 12 years and have been coparenting identical, 10-year-old twin boys diagnosed with autism and an 18-month-old daughter. Additionally, they have been serving organizations in the autism community that support other families of autism. They are strong supporters of the Mariposa School For Children With Autism in Cary, NC. Click here if you'd like to learn more about the school or if you'd like to make a donation to the school's cause of serving children and families affected by autism.
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Kids Aren't Required to Fast During Ramadan, but My 10-Year-Old Son Is
Ramadan is the holiest month of the year for Muslims. During this time, we're required to fast from sunrise to sunset and abstain from food, water, and sex along with unkind behaviors such as gossiping, getting angry, or being judgmental. Consider it a combination of a spiritual cleanse and extreme intermittent fasting. If this sounds like a grueling month to endure, trust me, it is, and that's exactly the point.
Will this be hard for him? Absolutely. But is he looking forward to the opportunity to foster self-control and gratitude? Absolutely.
I'm often asked why 24 percent of the world's population (that equals to roughly 1.8 billion Muslims) would happily want to partake in this month of rigorous and very restrictive fasting. But the thing is, all major religions have prolonged histories of fasting in the name of God. Aside from Muslims that fast during Ramadan, Roman Catholics fast during Lent, Jews fast during Yom Kippur, and some Hindu women fast weekly for the longevity of their spouse's life. So, every year when Ramadam comes, my entire family fasts, including my 10-year-old son.
I know it can't be easy for my Muslim-American boy. He's slowly coming of age under the presidency of a man who has been quoted as saying, "I think Islam hates us," and has called for a ban of Muslims entering the United States. And I know son is acutely aware of the Islamophobic rhetoric that is especially rampant in our current society and culture. It's in this place of fear that I realize the importance of cultivating my sons' confidence in their religious identity. It's in this place of privilege that I'm able to exercise my constitutionally given right to practice my religion unapologetically and teach my boys to do the same.
Ramadan is supposed to be a time of reflection for Muslims when we try to let go of worldly temptations and look inward through self-control and sacrifice. My 10-year-old son will participate in fasting on Saturdays this year. He'll get up before dawn to have a meal and then abstain from food and water in the blistering heat of a Texas Summer until sunset (which is clocking in at 8:10 p.m. right now).
Will this be hard for him? Absolutely. But is he looking forward to the opportunity to foster self-control and gratitude? Absolutely. Fasting is not mandatory for children, but my son did it last year during Ramadan and felt incredibly proud of the difficult achievement. And on a deeper level, he was actually able to empathize more comprehensively with the 815 million people in the world who go to bed hungry every single night.
Nothing makes me prouder than seeing my child want to carve out his own religious identity, even in the face of adversity and hateful rhetoric. As a mother, I pray his future is full of possibilities in a country that doesn't pigeonhole him because of his faith. As one of the 3.45 million Muslims who live in the United States, I pray that our legacy cultivates peace and nurtures compassion among our fellow Americans.
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.
I Check Into a Hotel Twice a Year by Myself, and It's Made Me a Better Mom
This past weekend was one of my favorite events of the year. It wasn't a holiday or my birthday or some big milestone for my beloved children. It was an event of my own making, one that I've also decided should happen at least twice a year. It's the weekend I check myself into a hotel - all alone - and don't emerge for at least 24 hours (48 hours is preferable, but I'll take what I can get). It's my biyearly, kid-free self-care extravaganza, and it is glorious.
My now-mandatory tradition began organically. My town, a far western suburb of Chicago, boasts a charming hotel, known for being located on the river, housing a sweet little spa, and hosting many a wedding and anniversary party. A few years ago, my husband and I had scored a night away from our kids, then 1 and 4, and instead of heading downtown, as was our normal tradition, we decided to ditch the hour drive and check into the hotel we had heard so much about, located less than 10 minutes from home.
I have only one rule for myself during these weekends: I don't do anything I don't truly want to do.
The minute we got in our room, which featured a balcony overlooking the river, a huge bed facing a fireplace, and a bathroom with the biggest tub I'd ever seen, I was sold. Relaxation flooded over me instantly; I didn't even need to visit the spa that was literally across the hall. Thirty minutes in that bathtub, followed by an hour of reading a book in front of the fireplace, wearing the plush robe the hotel provided, was more soothing than the best massage I'd ever had.
My husband and I read, watched Netflix, and ordered room service (getting dressed to go out to dinner seemed like way too much work), then slept 10 hours that night. We ate the complimentary breakfast the next morning, read the paper while sitting on the balcony, and went home feeling more chilled out than we had since our oldest child was born.
I realized there was just one thing keeping the experience from being total self-care bliss, and although I love him, that thing was my husband. He's my best friend, but alone time has always been vital to my happiness, and it's been sorely lacking since I had kids (duh). If one night in that cozy hotel room had been that beneficial with him along, just how zen-ed out could I get all by myself? Plus, not bringing him meant I didn't even have to worry about finding childcare for my night away. Bonus.
In the few years since, I've become so dedicated to my solo hotel experiences that it's become almost ritualistic. I request an early check-in to my preferred room (the same one from that first stay); I unpack the pajamas, loungewear, books, candles, portable speaker, and wine I bring along with me; and within an hour, I'm in that tub, soaking my stresses away. It's amazing how much relaxation you can pack into a couple of days if you really try.
This past weekend, I had a facial and a massage, took two long baths, read a book and two newspapers, and binge-watched Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. I have only one rule for myself during these weekends: I don't do anything I don't truly want to do. No working out unless that sounds enjoyable. No meeting friends for a coffee or drink. No leaving the room in general unless it's for something that will add to my self-care experience, like more wine or that massage at the spa across the hall.
I'll admit that coming home after a day or two of doing absolutely nothing but taking care of my own needs can be a bit of a shock. But allowing myself a true break - one not filled with long travels or a jam-packed social schedule - allows me to come back to my kids totally refreshed and rested. And we both deserve that.
21 Motherhood Tattoo Ideas That Will Keep Your Babies With You Wherever You Go
Whether you're relishing in the joys of new motherhood or an old pro with toddlers and adolescents, a tattoo that showcases the love you have for your children will be something you cherish for the rest of your life. From tiny images with your child's name to permanently carrying around their birthday on your skin, these motherhood tattoos may very well inspire your own.
This Photo of a Mom at Target Is What We All Dream Public Breastfeeding Should Be Like
Whoever said dads can't be part of the breastfeeding process hasn't met this guy.
A member of the popular Breastfeeding Mama Talk Facebook page posted a photo of her family's recent shopping trip to a local Target, and it is the definition of public breastfeeding goals.
"When you've been in the Target toy section for 45 minutes with your 10-year-old birthday girl and the 15-month-old wants to nurse, you take their seat and nurse her while the hubs pushes you around," the proud mom wrote.
Just look at this picture, and - aside from imagining that this is how Kate Middleton must nurse all the time - make a mental note to snag one of these carts the next time your whole family is out on a Target run.
11 Slang Terms That Are Officially Words - the Dictionary Says So
Another day, another dictionary that's just starting to learn slang words we're already over saying. This time around, it's Dictionary.com, which recently added more than 300 new words, like sext and slay.
See which new additions are finally in the dictionary - and maybe consider giving them up if you don't want to look lame.
Did You Know Netflix Has Secret Movie Categories? Here's How to Find Them
Your Netflix hunting just got so much better. Turns out, there are a ton of secret movie categories on Netflix, and there's an easy hack for finding them. To access one of the hidden categories, you'll just need to type out the following in your browser:
https://ift.tt/2hSdKdR
So, for instance, 67673 is the code for Disney, so to see all the movies in that category, you'd type:
https://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/67673
Cool, right? What's on Netflix has all the categories, which include very specific genres such as sci-fi thrillers (11014), foreign films from places like Scandinavia (9292), and even for children's age ranges from 0 to 2 (6796) and 11 to 12 (6962). Check out some of the ones that grabbed our interest here!
- 10118 - Comic Book and Superhero Movies
- 10702 - Spy Action and Adventure
- 11146 - Anime Fantasy
- 26 - Mockumentaries
- 10944 - Cult Horror Movies
- 1159 - Travel and Adventure Documentaries
- 6384 - Tearjerkers
- 29764 - Art House Movies
- 8646 - Slasher and Serial Killer Movies
- 75405 - Zombie Horror Movies
- 36103 - Quirky Romance
- 972 - Steamy Thrillers
- 1164 - British Crime Dramas Based on Books
- 2077 - Witty Independent Movies
- 502 - Gritty Political Thrillers
- 394 - Critically-Acclaimed Coming-of-Age Movies
9 Geeky Dresses You Need to Get in Your Closet This Spring
As warm weather finally approaches, it's time to take out every single Spring and Summer dress you own. While we definitely appreciate a beautiful floral pattern on a dress, we're a bit more inclined to show off our favorite fandoms instead. Check out some of our favorite geeky dresses ahead and buy them before the season's already over.
12 Stylish Phone Cases Because Your Mirror Selfies Need a Serious Upgrade
When it comes to accessories, bags and shoes have taken a backseat to the one thing you'll never leave the house without: your phone. You literally carry it everywhere you go. It even shows up in your mirror selfies, so why not use it to reflect your own personal style? Ditch that old dirty case you've had for far too long and trade it in for something you'll covet. We rounded up a list of cool and chic choices that will rival your best handbags. From brands like Kate Spade, Clare V., and even Gucci, prepare to want them all. Take a look.
There's Something So Satisfying About This Guy's Perfectly Organized Artwork on Instagram
If you're sick of scrolling through endless photos of latte art and sunsets on Instagram, we discovered the one account you need to start following for a much-needed change. Visual artist Adam Hillman specializes in assembling colorful masterpieces that are so incredibly soothing to look at. Seriously, just looking at them is sure to give you an eyegasm.
He transforms everyday items, from cereal and jellybeans to crayons and toothpicks, into true works of art. Each piece is perfectly organized in a way that will make any Type A person smile with delight. His intricate designs typically take up to three hours to construct, although some have taken him up to three days - talk about dedication!
We reached out to the creative mastermind to hear a bit more about what drove him to start crafting these aesthetically pleasing patterns back in 2015. "I'm inspired by websites like the Tumblr 'Things Organized Neatly', [the] subreddit 'Oddly Satisfying,' art historical movements like minimalism, and artists like Mondrian," he told POPSUGAR. He also takes time to consciously appreciate "the colors and pattern of everyday things."
Last year, Instagram "aesthetes" (a term for people who have a special appreciation for art and beauty) started noticing his one-of-a-kind work on social media, and his account skyrocketed from having fewer than 1,000 followers to more than 100,000 in 2016. Adam posts a different creation every few days, and also sells prints of his fun patterns on Society6. Sit back, relax, and read on to feel the soothing tranquility wash over you.
37 Sailor Moon Tattoo Ideas For Anyone Who Still Wishes They Were a Sailor Scout
Sailor Moon fans are not the type to hide their love for the show. Whether it means using makeup inspired by the Sailor Scouts or attempting to dress like them, Sailor Moon fans will try anything. If you want to make your love a bit more permanent, look ahead to get some tattoo inspiration.
Fitbit's Latest Smartwatch Impresses on All Fronts, but Its Look and Price Are What Will Sell You
If the Fitbit Ionic impressed you, just wait until you see the company's latest product. On April 16, 2018, Fitbit released its highly anticipated smartwatch, the Fitbit Versa. Advertised with a completely new, elevated look along with four-plus days of battery life, the newest addition to the Fitbit family is sure to please. So, as soon as I was able to get my hands on one, I immediately put the Versa to the test. My first impression: Fitbit finally nailed it with this one.
From an aesthetics standpoint, I was fully impressed by the Versa's softer clock face and its light weight. Fun fact: the Fitbit Versa is the lightest metal smartwatch in the US. Its similar look to the Apple Watch also makes it competitive on the design front. Opting for a square face with rounded edges (compared to the Ionic's more angular design) was completely intentional and designed with the female consumer in mind, according to Fitbit senior product marketing manager Kat Binder. She shared that considering 60 percent of smartwatch buyers are men, Fitbit wanted to tap into the female market this time around. In addition to releasing a black-on-black aluminum and gray-silver aluminum watch, Fitbit also offers a gorgeous rose gold one that will definitely sway skeptics.
Here are some key features of the Versa, many of which we've already known and loved on previous devices:
- Battery life: There's no need to charge your smartwatch every night because you can enjoy the Versa for a minimum of four days straight. This also means you can wear it while you sleep (and comfortably, might I add), which leads me to . . .
- Onscreen workouts: With the Versa, you have your own personal trainer right on your wrist. Three on-device workouts are included with your device (10-Minute Abs, Seven-Minute Workout, and Warm It Up), while a paid subscription gives you access to multiple trainers, additional workouts, and Fitbit Radio. Your Fitbit Coach will walk you through each move and continue to improve with feedback.
- Auto sleep tracking: Your Versa gives you a deeper look into your bedtime habits by telling you how long you were in light, deep, or REM sleep. See your nightly sleep insights on the Fitbit app, which also explains the importance of each cycle. I learned that I wake up much more often than I should each night, which has encouraged me to switch up my bedtime routine.
- Auto activity tracking: Thanks to the Versa's SmartTrack technology, you don't have to hit "start" in order for your workout to count. Your watch will automatically detect what kind of exercise you're doing without having to log activity yourself.
- Integrated dashboard: The on-device dashboard was redesigned to allow for easy access to your health and fitness data right on your wrist. Now, you can glance at your seven-day exercise summaries, current and resting heart rate, daily stats, and more - all without having to go on the mobile app to find it.
- Connected GPS: Your Fitbit Versa automatically tracks your running and biking pace, distance, and speed using your smartphone's GPS if it's nearby. This is the one downfall to the Versa as the Ionic features built-in GPS.
- 24/7 heart rate tracking: Similar to the Fitbit Ionic, the Versa uses PurePulse technology to provide you with your current and resting heart rate. The new integrated dashboard also allows you to see your seven-day resting heart rate trends on your wrist.
- Water resistance: Feel free to take a bath with your Versa on or jump into the ocean (up to 50 meters) or pool - it's totally safe.
- Phone-free music: You can store up to 300 of your favorite songs directly onto your smartwatch or stream music through Pandora or Deezer. The best part? It's compatible with Bluetooth devices, so you can hook up your wireless headphones without having to carry your phone on a run!
In addition to text/call notification and calendar alerts, you can take personalization to the next level with the various apps (hello, Strava!), the clock faces available, and numerous accessory bands, from stainless steel to leather. And if you're not yet convinced that the Versa is for you, let me just share the price point real quick. The Fitbit Versa starts at $200 (for the black, silver, and rose gold) and goes up to $230 for the special-edition smartwatches, which come in an exclusive charcoal woven and lavender woven band and feature Fitbit (wallet-free) Pay. In comparison to the Apple Watch Series 3 (starting at $329) and the Fitbit Ionic (starting at $300), the cost of the Versa is undeniably competitive.
As if all that weren't enough, coming this Spring are female health tracking and message quick replies for Android users. Ladies, soon we'll be able to get predicted ovulation dates, predicted period dates, menstrual reminders, cycle tracking, and other personal insights. But wait for it . . . you won't even need a Fitbit device to access this data as long as you have the Fitbit mobile app downloaded. As for you Android users, you'll soon be able to reply to texts on your wrist with quick preselected responses or with your own customized replies. Fitbit informed us that they're currently working on a solution for iPhone users.
Overall, the key difference between the Fitbit Versa and the Ionic comes down to looks and cost. The two devices are nearly identical in features, aside from the Ionic's built-in GPS. The Fibit Versa is an affordable option for fitness enthusiasts who want a smartwatch that's more fashion forward. If you don't mind bringing your phone along with you for its GPS, I'd say that the Versa is the way to go. Come on, you can't beat a $200 smartwatch.
OMG, Spotify and Hulu Announced a $13-a-Month Bundle Deal - and No, You're Not Dreaming
Ladies and gentlemen, the streaming gods are truly shining down upon us. Spotify and Hulu are extending their heaven-sent partnership and offering a crazy-affordable bundle deal for music and TV addicts. Last year, the two brands teamed up to offer a $5-a-month package deal specifically for college students, and this new bundle - Spotify Premium, Now With Hulu - offers anyone, not just students, access to both Hulu's Limited Commercials plan and Spotify Premium through one $13-a-month subscription plan. Yes, that's certainly more than $5, but hey, we (unfortunately) can't be college students forever!
How much would you save if you took advantage of this joint plan? Let's break it down, shall we? Spotify Premium costs $10 a month, and Hulu's limited commercials plan is $8 a month. So that means every month, you'll save $5 - a.k.a. $60 over the course of one year. You can score a new pair of shoes with those savings!
The Spotify Premium, Now With Hulu deal will officially be available this Summer, but if you're already a Spotify Premium subscriber, you've got early access to the $13-a-month bundle starting now. On top of that, eligible Spotify Premium users can also try Hulu's Limited Commercials Plan for three months for just 99 cents as an intro to the package, if you're kinda on the fence about the whole Hulu thing. Learn more about this budget-friendly offering here, and get ready for your savings account to do a happy dance.
19 Memes About Feeling Lonely That Are Way Too Real
Sometimes, it's good to take a step back and laugh at yourself and everything going on in your life. So, if you're someone who's upset about being alone this Valentine's Day or just wishing you had someone to call your own, laugh away any sadness with these memes ahead. Some totally describe the joys of being by yourself, while others capture what it's like when your friends don't respond to your texts and leave you feeling lonely.
The Best Sex Positions For Some Major G-Spot Orgasms
When it comes to having a G-spot orgasm, a lot depends on the state you're in as well as the positions you're doing to really hit that sweet spot. A big part of really maximizing G-spot stimulation is making sure you're in the mood for better arousal and natural lubrication. That way, you can really experience the pleasure. Take some time to do whatever feels best for you in terms of foreplay - candles, baths, nipple play, and more. Then, head to the main event: actual sex, and make sure you or your partner are giving the attention to the area that's needed.
Luckily, there are a few positions that increase your chances of G-spot orgasm more than others. Here are the best ones to choose from.
If You're Flyin' Solo
If you're going for G-explosions of the solo variety, you might be your best tool. "Using only your fingers is a fun switch, and it even teaches your body to orgasm more easily from multiple kinds of stimulation," Alicia Sinclair, certified sex educator and CEO of Le Wand, b-Vibe, and The Cowgirl, told POPSUGAR. "Start by putting a finger or two inside your vagina and curving your finger to meet your front vaginal wall or tapping and swirling a finger pad or two around the G-spot," she said. Play with different kinds of pressure and stimulation to figure out what feels the best for you, and when you do find it, you'll know.
"If you want some extra help pinpointing your G-spot, Le Wand has a Curve Attachment Cover, which best matches the curve of your vagina's front wall where the spot is found. The Ripple Attachment also works great, as the bumps massage your G-spot as you move it in and out," she said. Start with low vibrations, brush them against your special spot, and then pull back out again to graze your clitoris. As you get more and more aroused, you can pump up the vibrations, she said, increasing the intensity.
Done too soon? Don't worry. "If you finish too fast, remember the bliss of being a vagina owner - your refractory period is super short, and you can come again and again in completely different ways within minutes," she said.
Cowgirl
"If you're ready to give G-spot stimulation a go with a partner, riding is a great - and fairly easy - position to help you reach that spot," she said. This works regardless of whether your partner has a penis or is wearing a strap-on dildo, because you can take advantage of that upward curve in either their skin or silicone member that targets the G-spot's location, she said. This is about three inches into your vagina, right where your front wall feels round and puffy. "Try gyrating and moving in different rhythms and angles to find the position that strikes that spot," she said.
Doggy
"Not only is doggy style a fan favorite, but believe it or not, when your partner enters you from the back (with penis, dildo, or fingers), they're actually poised to slide right up against your secret spot as they move back and forth," she said. To make sure you're getting the most out of this position, try angling your body in different ways to hit your G-spot. "For example, start off on all fours and see how that feels, and then lower your chest all the way to the bed while arching your back and pushing your pelvis toward your partner's movements," she said. Let your partner know what feels good and what's working so they can be sure to be an active partner in the experience and give the most amount of pleasure.
Missionary With Legs in the Air
This position is a twist on missionary that is meant to really angle your partner toward your G-spot. "Rather than getting into standard missionary partner, pick your legs up and put them over your partner's (the penetrator's) shoulders. They can situate themselves on their knees," she said. This angle helps your partner reach your G-spot more easily because of the angle at which your hips are propped, she explained.
Spooning
For a more intimate way to reach the G-spot, get snuggly on your side with your partner around you. "Coming from behind, the giver will be able to reach your G-spot directly (with either a penis or dildo)," she said. Bonus points: spooning will give your partner plenty of access to stimulate your nipples, clitoris, and other fun spots on your body at the same time.
X Marks the Spot
To hit your G-spot, "lay on your back (even better if it's on a flat surface like a table or counter) and have your partner enter while standing up. Lift your legs and cross your ankles in an X so they lay on opposite shoulders," she said. "This plays up the natural curvature of an erection or curved dildo, making it super easy to reach the G-spot," she explained. The "X" will create a tighter fit for a little extra friction, too.
Fusion
"Have the giver sit up with their legs straight out, while you straddle them and lean back on your arms. By leaning back, you'll be able to easily grind against your partner at the right angle to stimulate the G-spot for the whole ride," she said. This way, you have some control over the position and can get a sweet G-spot orgasm.
Do NOT Commit to a Serious Relationship Until You Ask These 38 Questions
When it comes to serious relationships, virtually no topic should be off-limits. Whether you've just moved in together, a baby's on the way, you're saying "I do," or any combination of the three - there are some things you just need to know. Ahead are 38 questions to ask your significant other as the stakes are raised in your partnership. Note: these range from mildly uncomfortable to a little, sort of, somewhat, totally and utterly cringeworthy. But no matter the inquiry, soldier on . . . if you have any hope for the future, you'll need to know the answer!
- What are your religious beliefs?
- What are you political beliefs?
- How do you feel about abortion?
- What is your ideal career?
- Are you in any debt?
- What's your income?
- How do you spend your money?
- How much is in your savings?
- What's your biggest pet peeve?
- How do you feel about monogamy?
- Do you have any fetishes?
- What are your porn habits?
- Are you comfortable with my family?
- Do I fit in with your family?
- Do you want kids?
- If so, how many, and when?
- What kind of parent do you think you'd be?
- Do you want pets?
- Where is your ideal place to live?
- Where is your ideal place to raise kids?
- Will we raise our children to be spiritual?
- Are you more comfortable with a nanny or daycare?
- What are your thoughts on recreational drug use?
- Do you feel comfortable prioritizing aspects of my family's culture, such as religion or language?
- Would you rather join our bank accounts or keep them separate?
- How are we going to split the bills?
- Do you gamble?
- How do you feel about marriage?
- What kind of wedding would you have?
- Are we going to keep our surnames?
- How much would you post on social media about our marriage?
- How much would you post on social media about our kids?
- Would you be willing to delete nude photos of me?
- Would you be willing to follow stricter internet account rules?
- Do you have any bad habits I should know about?
- Do you get jealous?
- Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
- What's your ultimate deal-breaker?
Don't Waste Any More Time - Experience These Amazing Adventures Right Now
Life's short, so don't waste any time checking things off your bucket list. There are so many amazing experiences that everyone should have at least once, and now is your chance to start a new adventure.
18 Lesbian Romances You Can Stream on Netflix
More than ever before, we're seeing queer women represented in film and television. Over the last year, we've borne witness to Billie Jean King's career in Battle of the Sexes and wept over Lena Waithe's emotional Emmys speech for the beautiful Master of None episode "Thanksgiving." You don't need to look very far to see a movie that portrays a lesbian relationship - head on over to Netflix, and you'll see a robust selection of movies that depict love and attraction between women. We've rounded up 18 movies on Netflix about women in same-sex relationships, which range from poignant dramas like Carol to musical movies like Rent.
How 2 Women Are Working to Erase Anxiety Around Being Plus-Size in Public
It all started at Six Flags. Rebecca Alexander (pictured above) was just 18 and on a high-school trip to the theme park, but what should have been a day filled with fun and excitement with her friends quickly turned into a day of anxiety. She remembers clearly her uneasiness as she wondered if she would be able to fit on the rides - or if she'd have to watch her friends having all the fun without her.
"I have scrolled through more photos of ravioli than you can imagine, when all I really want to know is if a restaurant's booths have tables that move or tables that are bolted down."
Since that day, Alexander began noticing a pattern. She was surprised by the amount of research she had to do . . . just to comfortably go out in public. Accessibility issues didn't seem to be a priority for businesses. That realization spurred her and colleague Michele Amar to come up with the idea for a new app to help people answer the question: Can we all go?
AllGo, currently in the Kickstarter phase, will be a review app specifically designed for plus-size people to rate the comfort and accessibility of public places.
"I have scrolled through more photos of ravioli than you can imagine, when all I really want to know is if a restaurant's booths have tables that move or tables that are bolted down," Alexander tells me. "Having to do all of this research all the time really dampened my desire to go out. It was just too hard to find what I needed to know."
I can relate. As someone who is physically disabled, I'm incredibly excited about the further implications of AllGo. The world is most definitely not created for people with disabilities or, to borrow a phrase from writer Roxane Gay, otherwise "unruly bodies." Sure, we have the landmark Americans With Disabilities Act, which I'm so thankful for, but even that is limited. Sometimes, I get to feeling like we're an afterthought, as if we're expected to mold and conform our lives to the larger world around us. But the reality? Living in a disabled body in an able-bodied world is next to impossible when you have physical limitations and your body tells you, "Nope. I can't do this."
A drawing of some of AllGo's notable supporters, created by artist Nikki May
I was born with a genetic bone and muscular disorder. I can only walk a short distance with a walker and rely on an electric wheelchair every day. My wheelchair is big and bulky, which makes going places a bit of a challenge sometimes. I see other people my age - able-bodied people - decide they want to do something or go somewhere and just hop in the car. They can go to things like restaurants and concerts and museums with relative ease. It's not nearly as easy for me. Inevitably, there are a whole bunch of questions that come up...
*Is there handicapped parking?
*Is there handicapped seating?
*Are there ramps to get into the building?
*Will I be able to easily open the doors of the building?
*Are the restrooms big enough?
*Are there elevators?
Many of these questions are the same questions Alexander was asking every time she ventured out. She started wondering if other people of size went through the same thing, so she became more vocal about her experiences. As it turns out, she wasn't alone.
Alexander hopes to leverage those shared experiences with her app. "AllGo reviews are straight from the source: plus-size people like us who've been there before and want to share our experiences. We'll be able to rate places like restaurants, theaters, airlines and gyms," she says.
The Kickstarter campaign is well underway, and the goal is to raise $50,000 by April 8. People from all walks of life, from feminists to writers to people in the body-positivity movement (hi, Roxane Gay and Tess Holliday!) have already pledged their support.
A still from AllGo's Kickstarter video
"We're seeking backing from our community through Kickstarter because we believe that the first review website designed with plus-size people in mind should have our community's support," says Alexander. "We want to build the AllGo plus-size people want."
In 2018, this type of app is desperately needed. In fact, it's long overdue. We're finally living in an age where things like body positivity, accessibility, and inclusion are no longer taboo topics, pushed to the back of the conversation - if talked about at all. Thankfully, these concerns have moved to the forefront and key players like AllGo are leading the way, blazing a trail of innovative change and leading a revolution. And it's about time.
I tell Alexander an app like AllGo - while initially intended for the plus-size community - would also be life-changing for me. Actually, it would be life-GIVING. I could easily read reviews and get a "feel" for places before I even go. It would definitely save me a lot of time and energy, cutting down on my frustration that would inevitably ensue when I'd go somewhere and realize it's not accessible.
"We are so glad AllGo will be useful beyond the plus-size community," Alexander says. "In the future, we expect our product will fully reflect the reality of our intersectional world. We hope to be able to accommodate all people and truly answer the question, 'Can we all go?'"
Call Me Old Fashioned, but I Wish Guys Still Picked You Up For a Date
Back in the good old days of actual phone calls, romance, and real dates, when a guy would ask you on a date and you accepted, the next thing he would say would be along the lines of, "Great, I'll pick you up at 8." The call would end, and you would have nothing to worry about besides getting ready before the said date and time.
My, oh my, the times have changed. The lovely scenario listed above has become extinct.
In today's world, we get asked out on dates over text, and more often than not, we get asked for "hangouts," aka hookups before an actual meal-eating date comes into play.
Should a guy actually shoot for the romantic gesture and ask you on a real date, the conversation normally ends with a text along the lines of, "I'll meet you there at 8."
Based on a recent experience of mine and upon the hundreds of date invitations sans pickups my girlfriends have received, I have one big question for the gents out there: when did you stop picking us up?!
I understand that in today's world, we have about 1 million options for how to get from point A to point B. We have cabs, buses, Uber, trains, driving, and even good old-fashioned walking. However, if you don't pick your date up, you are missing one key element of the traditional old-school date.
Not the initial pickup and not the date itself, obviously, but the most telling part of all dates: the drop-off. If you meet your date out vs. picking them up, you rob yourself of the perfect opportunity for a goodnight kiss, and maybe even more than that. The way the date ends solidifies to both daters how the date actually went.
It's a scenario often played out time and time again in rom-coms and sitcoms. The night ends, and when the drop-off happens, goodbyes are exchanged, and that is when there's the classic jingle of the keys or maybe a hand lingers before the walk to the door. This is prime time for a first postdate kiss to happen.
When we go on a date where we meet at a bar or restaurant, the time to call it a night is just straight-up awkward. Who calls an Uber first? When does the second date invite happen if it is going to at all? Do you hug? Shake hands? Between a busy street, mapping out exactly where your Uber driver is, all while being stared down by the valet attendant who is waiting for his next patron, there is really no opportunity to seal the date with a kiss, nor would anyone want to in that situation.
I feel awkward even describing this because this is the exact scenario that occurred in my most recent date.
The date was great, and I had already gotten a second date invite, and I felt like we were truly vibing with each other. But, like I said, that above awkward scenario was the close to my great date. If I had been picked up and dropped off, I definitely would have given this guy a kiss. But instead, the night ended while I was calling my Uber and people were pushing their way in and out of the restaurant entrance.
Any good vibes I had from the date seemed to disappear for me, and I think on his end, too. When it came time to say bye, the awkwardness was pretty palpable, and then the least-romantic thing of all happened: we hugged.
Not only does a pickup guarantee a great opportunity for a kiss when the night ends, but it also shows your date you are genuinely interested in spending every minute of the date with them. Additionally, it ensures the date is void of any awkward moments, especially goodbyes. That is how you close the date - after all, shouldn't it be on the best note possible? Guys, if you really like your date, effing pick them up!
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.
Everyone Can Fly First Class in Their Lifetime: Here's How
If you're flying to a different country, first class is the way to go. Fold-flat seats, top-shelf cocktails, chef-curated fare, and other luxuries await. Rather than arriving sleep-deprived and a little disheveled, your international vacation begins rested, fed, and ready to tackle the sights.
But let's cut to the chase - first-class tickets are also incredibly expensive. We're talking typical fares ranging anywhere from $3,000 up to $10,000+ for a round-trip flight. So unless you're a celebrity or international businessperson, you might think seat 1A is simply out of reach. But fear not! Luckily, it is possible to snag a first-class seat without burning thousands of dollars. With some help from travel experts, here are our tips for securing a first-class travel experience without maxing out your credit card. Another glass of Champagne, please?
- Miles, miles, miles. Save them! You can find excellent deals on first-class seats with miles. Even if you're not an avid traveler, it is possible to rack up enough miles over time. Remember that with most airlines, your miles will expire if there isn't any account activity in a predetermined amount of time. If you fly at least once or twice a year, you'll be good to go. To avoid the risk all together, consider an airline without a mileage expiration date (like Delta).
- Get carded. Consider a travel credit card with a generous sign-up bonus. Saving 120,000 miles for a round-trip first-class ticket to Europe might sound steep if you don't fly a lot, but when you get half of them simply by signing up, it feels much more attainable.
- Hunt for special offers. Most credit cards will run temporary promotions that double (or more) the standard sign-up bonus. And don't limit your search to only airline credit cards. Many cards have partnerships with airlines and will allow you to transfer your points into miles. Some even offer airport lounge access - totally worth it if you're a frequent flier.
- Can I charge that? Amie O'Shaughnessy, founder and CEO of Ciao Bambino, reminds travelers that unexpected things can be charged. "Choose the card that has the most airline relationships and at least offers one-to-one conversions for points to miles, and charge everything on it. Property tax, DMV fee, doctors, home and personal service providers - everyone takes cards these days, so take advantage of that. Miles can accumulate fast."
- Make a transfer. Check to see if your current credit card allows you transfer points into miles. Clem Bason, CEO of goSeek.com and the former president of Hotwire, advises researching the transfer policies first, as it's favorable for some airlines and less so for others.
- Get creative with Google Flights. Rob Harper of Costa Rican Vacations suggests opening up your search to find the best deal. "Rather than selecting an arrival city, search best price on business/first class by selecting the region. For example, if you're heading to Spain, rather than searching for business class flights to Madrid or Barcelona, use the "Search Europe" feature to see if you can simply get to the continent on a cheaper first-class rate. Then, you can just take a 'puddle jumper' to your primary destination."
- Keep your eye on the deals. Bason recommends regularly checking for sales year round. "The big international airlines typically have [sales] once or twice a year. American and British Airways are famous for it. When those airlines launch the fare sale, use Google Flights to scan travel dates to find the best prices."
- Go through a travel agent. Alex Dalton of Travel With Alex, Inc. advises, "Look for an agency that has a preferred relationship with a consolidator that does international first-class travel. They have access to deals that can blow away published fares. The consolidator won't work with the public, so you have to use a travel agent to get those deals."
- Go cruising. If you're planning on setting sail once you arrive at your destination, ask the cruise line if they can offer any special rates on first-class airfare. Dalton adds, "The cruise lines strike deals with airlines to get reduced business and first-class tickets to sell to their clients that sail with them."
- When all else fails, just ask! Mery Calderon of Kuoda Travel encourages travelers to remember the power of a smile. "If you're a frequent flyer on a particular airline, but don't have top status, try your luck at asking! Show up early, look presentable, and request a complimentary upgrade. A sunny attitude and little luck can go a long way (and yes, it does happen!)."
7 Days of Sex? You Can Do It
OK, so sometimes we all might be a little guilty of shirking some of our sexier responsibilities when we are too busy, had a long day at work, or are not quite in the mood. There are plenty of ways to spice up your relationship with your significant other, but this 7-day challenge puts the focus specifically on making a point each day to get it on - for one week. The goal is just to do it every day, and then you can decide how much you want to shake it up! And trust us, it's for your own good.
Day 1: Have sex.
Optional add-on: make time for morning sex.
Day 2: Have sex.
Optional add-on: do it in a new place.
Day 3: Have sex.
Optional add-on: bring in some props.
Day 4: Have sex.
Optional add-on: focus on foreplay.
Day 5: Have sex.
Optional add-on: try a new position.
Day 6: Have sex.
Optional add-on: shag in the shower.
Day 7: Have sex.
Optional add-on: act out your favorite fantasy.
Rare GIF of a Dying Star Will Make You Rethink Your Existence
The Hubble Telescope recently celebrated its 27th birthday, and in those years it has given us an incredible look at the vast world we live in. Case in point: a rare peek at a dying star.
From 2002 to 2006, Hubble captured close-up images of an enormous star named V838 Moncerotis, which sits 20,000 light-years away from Earth. Back then, the star emitted a powerful flash of light that illuminated the dust and gas that surrounded it.
"Hubble's exceptionally sharp focus of V838 Mon offered a ring-side seat at the slow death of the star and excited astrophysicists with the chance to study the physics of the light, matter and microscopic dust of the interstellar medium," writes The Conversation, which offers more details about the life of the star and the cause of that light flash.
Below you can see a time-lapse video of the photos taken by the Hubble. Looks fake, doesn't it?
36 Crazy Places You Should Have Sex (at Least Once)
Doing it in the bed is fine and dandy, but there are some crazy places to have sex that can make it even hotter. We've compiled quite the list of steamy spots to do the nasty, from rooftops and kitchen counters to planes, trains, and automobiles. Read on for some inspiration. PS no judgments.
Why Portland, OR, Is the Coolest City in the US
Known for its funky vibes, farm-to-table cuisine, craft beer, and one-too-many forest hikes to count, there is no surprise why so many people move to Portland after the first visit. I won't lie - the thought even rippled through my mind a couple of times, too.
So what is it about this city that's different from other urban destinations? Well, to put it simply: everything. Portland soars above the rest when it comes to its creativity, culture, and livability, which is why so many are calling it America's best city.
Just a few weeks ago, I made my way to this Oregon oasis, and it didn't take long before I caught the infectious Portland fever. The exploding crafts scene, the never-ending culinary choices, the close proximity of both ocean and mountains - woven together into one place. Of course, I took the city's bait and was left hooked. Intrigued. Wanting more. But no, I haven't relocated. Instead, I decided to churn my adoration into a massive city guide so you can experience the greatness of Portland, too. Tackling everything from "where to stay" and "where to eat" to "what to do" and "where to find the best outdoor adventure" - it's all right here. Get ready to pack your bags!
10 Next-Level Travel Sets For the Beauty Girl on the Go
You sprung for business class and the room with a view, so why should you start skimping on your beauty routine the moment you put up your away message? Because you've spent too many weeks (if not months) researching and testing to find the right products for your needs only to replace them with whatever is at the hotel or on sale at the local convenience store, we went ahead and rounded up 10 luxury travel sets for splurging on your hair, skin, and body. After all, they deserve a little TLC, too!
The Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Bucket List
Did you know that you can actually take magic lessons in a castle or sign a wall in the cafe where J.K. Rowling began to write her famous series? Potterheads who love history, fun book and movie facts, and endless amounts of Harry Potter memorabilia should - no, must - visit these themed spots all over the world. From majestic castles and train rides over rolling Scottish hillsides to historic hotels and secret wizarding shops, Muggles fulfilling this Harry Potter travel bucket list will be entirely convinced that magic truly does exist.
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