Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

mercredi 6 juin 2018

Issa Rae and Tracee Ellis Ross Had an Amazing and All Too Real Mid-Flight Hair Moment

There are just some celebrities who, no matter how close to their lives social media makes you feel, you still wish you can jump through the phone screen and hang with in real life. That moment totally happened when everyone's favorite imaginary best friends, Tracee Ellis Ross and Issa Rae, ended up on a flight together headed to NYC for the CFDA Awards. The encounter not only gave us all major FOMO, but it was also a lesson in things black girls do on planes.

Ross recorded the meetup at 30,000 feet, just as the Insecure star and CFDA host was about to wrap her hair up. Most black girls, natural or not, who saw the video probably know exactly what's happening in this totally relatable sitch. The nighttime ritual of anyone with textured strands requires a hair wrap or cover of some kind, in silk or satin, to keep hair smooth and tangle-free. It also helps to prevent breakage.

As demoed by Rae, traveling is no exception - especially when you're on your way to a big event to make history, as the first woman of color to host the awards, like Rae was. This was way too important of a moment to show up with unlaid edges.

Many of us have done the same and wrapped our hair on a flight to preserve the style, and to keep it protected from dry and gross plane air. And of course, if catching a quick nap is in the travel plans, a head scarf is a no-brainer.

The "black girl sh*t," as Rae calls it in the quick video, continued with Ross explaining that her long side braid was also a protective style that she planned to take out when they landed. See, celebs are just like us - and even though it didn't seem possible, we just fell deeper in love with these two.

Up Close and Personal: Every Single Face Product From Beauty by POPSUGAR

We're thrilled that Beauty by POPSUGAR has finally arrived at Ulta Beauty and on the Beauty by POPSUGAR website so we can pick up each and every item. The line includes lip, eye, and face products made with healthy ingredients and cruelty-free formulas, making it easy to find your new go-to faves.

Designed with input from POPSUGAR readers, the face products will make your complexion look radiant with a range of blush, highlighters, and sheer tinted moisturizers. The offerings in this line will enhance your natural beauty without covering you up. It's easy, natural-looking makeup that you'll want to wear every day. Keep reading to see every face product in the new line.

Rihanna Dressed Like a Metallic Waterfall at the Ocean's 8 Premiere, and We're BIG Fans

Rihanna's used to taking big fashion risks that pay off (ahem, every Met Gala ever), and the Ocean's 8 premiere was no exception.

The 30-year-old singer, entrepreneur, and now actress stepped onto the red carpet on June 5 in a ruffled one-shoulder dress that cascaded down one side, giving a beautiful waterfall effect. She paired her unique gown with delicate strappy purple heels, a BVLGARI watch and earrings, and a matching jeweled clutch. Rihanna is radiant no matter what she wears, but the metallic tint of her dress caused her to shine so brightly at the premiere, she had to catch everyone's eye.

Amal Clooney's Dragon-Print Dress Is a Conversation Starter, to Say the Least

Amal Clooney's Summer dress is everything you could ask for in a proper date-night look. It's form flattering but not too tight, sleeveless, hits just above the ankle to show off a little skin, and comes with a wild dragon print. But Amal doesn't need to impress George at this point - he already knows his wife has got the best style smarts in the game. The two stepped out for dinner at Il Marino di Puntaldia in Sardinia, Italy, after taking a motorcycle ride through the streets.

Amal just may have thrifted her high-neck midi. She does have a knack for scoring vintage pieces, and this look definitely feels extraordinary. For that reason, Amal knew to keep her accessories simple: neutral leather sandals, a red box clutch, and gemstone drop earrings were the finishing touch to a truly majestic and unique going-out ensemble in the Summer. Scroll for a second look, then shop some inspired pieces we found.

Gigi Hadid's Legs Go on For MILES in Her Sexy Ocean's 8 Premiere Dress

Gigi Hadid's red carpet style needs no introduction. The 23-year-old model walked the Ocean's 8 premiere red carpet in a sultry, leggy gown, which begs the question: what can't she do? She can go from a full-on colorful bodysuit one night to a sexy, revealing gown the next and nobody will bat an eye. That's because she's a seriously stylish icon.

Her chic black off-the-shoulder gown appeared modest on one side but featured a thigh-high slit on the other that seemed to go on for miles. She paired the gown with strappy black heels and Lorraine Schwartz earrings and rings. Ahead, see Gigi's dress from all angles . . . even the ones that will leave you breathless.

Iconic Designer Kate Spade Sadly Dies at 55

Update, June 5, 2018: Kate Spade reportedly left a note addressed to her 13-year-old daughter, Frances Beatrix. According to TMZ, it read: "Bea - I have always loved you. This is not your fault. Ask Daddy!"

Original post: Kate Spade, who launched her iconic accessories brand in 1993, has sadly passed away. She was reportedly found dead by suicide in her home on Park Avenue in NYC on Tuesday, June 5. Kate was found by her housekeeper tied with a red scarf to her closet door knob.

While Kate and her husband, Andy Spade (brother of actor David Spade), launched Kate's namesake brand, it was sold in 2007 and is now owned by Tapestry, which also houses Coach and Stuart Weitzman. Nevertheless, Kate's love for fashion was obvious as she launched a new label, Frances Valentine, in 2016. She will be remembered for her legacy that lives on in the industry today.

OK, but Amal Clooney Just Made Braided Sandals Look Casual on the Back of a Motorcycle

Amal Clooney joined husband George on a motorcycle ride through the streets of Sardinia, Italy, and the couple looked straight out of a photo shoot in a magazine. Amal was dressed for what could've been a casual Summer brunch in a floaty, colorful skirt and adorable braided sandals. Nope, no combat boots or tough denim, here!

Amal accessorized her outfit with a proper riding helmet (safety first) and Gucci sunglasses ($328), which round out her very stylish collection. While we might be more partial to close-toed shoes on such an occasion, Amal fully convinced us to invest in some laidback flats like hers. We'll just be here wearing them, waiting around for George to swing by and pick us up.

10 Cute Weekender Bags That Will Make You Say, "When the Heck is My Next Vacation?"

If you're tired of traveling around with that old oversize tote you've had for too long, invest in a new, useful weekender you'll actually enjoy using. These conveniently sized bags are perfect for just a few nights away, or you can pair them with your suitcase on your next long-distance flight by placing them on the top of your rollerbag. So whether you're taking it for one night away or 10, we have no doubt you'll enjoy packing in these stylish picks.

9 Petite Jumpsuits For the Vertically Challenged

As much as I love the look of a chic jumpsuit, I've steered clear of the trend for one important reason: I am under five feet tall. Every time I try on a jumpsuit, I end up with a pool of fabric on the floor and have to avoid tripping over myself. I've been filled with jealousy when my taller friends show me their easy-to-wear one-piece outfits and thought I would never be able to find one for myself.

Fortunately, there are a handful of online retailers that have stylish petite sections perfect for any other tiny people out there. I've searched through stores to find the cutest petite jumpsuits on the market so that we can finally get in on this easy-to-style trend.

Kaia Gerber's Heels Are Pretty Much Just Diamond Stilts That She Dared to Walk On

Kaia Gerber attended the 2018 CFDA Awards with Alexander Wang as her date, so it makes sense that she was dressed in the designer from head to toe. But while her casual separates pretty much just looked like mismatched pajamas, Kaia completed the look with Wang's signature emblazoned stocking heels.

These babies retail for a cool $1,195, but we're sure that Kaia's red carpet version, complete with a diamond stilt of a heel, are hard to acquire. Read on to catch an all angles view of Kaia's arrival - the 16-year-old supermodel finished her ensemble with oversize chain-link earrings and a sparkling goody bag - then shop her exact footwear if you're just as daring and ready to try the PVC trend and nylons on for size.

50 Summer Outfits to Toss on and Go When You're in a Rush

When the sun's out and your friends are waiting, nobody wants to spend time indoors laboring over the perfect outfit. The simple truth is that Summer's best looks are as easy as they are stylish, and while the fashion crowd relies on chic pieces, they don't spend too much time putting things together.

Key pieces like flat sandals, breezy dresses, cutoffs, and culottes on repeat make for outfits that are on trend and not overly complicated. In fact, we're betting you already have lots of these pieces tucked away in your closet - you're probably just looking for some inspired ways to style them. Well, look no further. Ahead you'll find 50 street style stars with all the styling know-how you'll need. Read on, pin your favorites, and then take all the outfit snaps you want.

- Additional reporting by Hannah Weil McKinley

We're Saying Yes, Yes, and Yes to These 16 Gorgeous Summer Handbags

My favorite items to shop for at Nordstrom are handbags. It has a massive selection in quality materials and cutting-edge silhouettes. If you're wondering what sorts of purses will be popular this Summer, we curated a list of our top picks. Get your hands on one of these gorgeous creations while you can, because we have no doubt they'll be flying off the shelves.

15 Cute and Comfortable Dresses You'll Never Want to Take Off - All Under $20 on Amazon

There's nothing worse than sitting in uncomfortable clothes you can't wait to rip off the second you get home. This Summer, don't wait around sweating in those dresses you hate. We rounded up a list of chic and comfortable picks you'll actually enjoy wearing. From gingham and floral-print choices to cute minidresses, we have you covered. Plus, they are all under $20 from Amazon and will be delivered right to your door. Keep scrolling to find the perfect piece you'll never want to take off.

Miley Cyrus's Pride Collection With Converse Is Every Bit as Colorful as You Think It'd Be

After creating the glittery sneaker line of our dreams, Miley Cyrus is teaming up with Converse for another amazing collaboration. It's no secret that the singer is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ youth community, and now she's found a way to give back by creating a special Pride collection. The colorful collab features everything from a fun polka-dot tee to a pair of rainbow sequined Chuck Taylors that are so sparkly, you don't even need the KiraKira app!

Want to know the best part? Not only will you be ready for the Summer if you buy one of these colorful kicks, but you'll also be supporting a great cause. All net proceeds from the collection will support LGBTQ+ youth community partners such as the Happy Hippie Foundation (Miley actually created this nonprofit), It Gets Better Project, Minus18, and RainbowYouth.

Keep reading to have a look at the collection, which will be available on June 5 exclusively on Converse.com and at select Converse stores, with prices ranging from $45 to $110.

Kate Hudson Has a Fun Shopping Date With Goldie Hawn, but It's What She's Holding That You Need to See

Kate Hudson showed off her adorable baby bump while out shopping with boyfriend Danny Fujikawa and her mom, Goldie Hawn, in Brentwood, CA, last month. Kate and Goldie gave us major mother-daughter goals while they laughed and browsed through The Velvet Store. We love Kate's casual, laid-back maternity style; an army jacket is the perfect transitional piece for expecting moms. We especially adore the star's teal wallet and Beauty by POPSUGAR Be the Boss Lip Gloss she had in tow.

If you dig Kate's look too, make sure to check out her exact lip gloss as well as similar wallet and jacket styles ahead. We've got your ultimate shopping guide covered!

22 Reasons You Should Reread the Harry Potter Series RIGHT Now

First of all, no, you do not need a reason to reread the Harry Potter series. However, if you'd like a reason other than "because I love it so much it hurts," then these are extra justifications for plowing through the seven books. Again. Do they get old after the 27th read? I can tell you from personal experience that no, they do not. Here's more fuel for your (Goblet of) fire.

This Alternate Harry Potter Story About Neville Will Rock Your World

Any true Harry Potter fan keeps up with all the new theories and possibilities that seem to pop up every few weeks. This latest one is an alternate storyline that completely turns around the series, focusing instead on Neville Longbottom.

The fan fiction, written by Tumblr user ink-splotch, explores what the world of Harry Potter would've looked like if Voldemort had chosen to mark Neville as his opponent instead. The long story makes huge changes to each book - for example, the writer imagines that Neville wouldn't be a "savior," but rather a scarred Neville who would still forget and lose items. The books would still focus in on Harry, Ron, and Hermione's adventures but only because they were reckless and willing to explore, not because of some unprecedented need to stop Voldemort.

Read the full post below to see how the entire Harry Potter world could've been. It definitely makes you think about all the relationship dynamics in the series.

http://ink-splotch.tumblr.com/post/112332424299/have-you-ever-thought-about-writing-a-fic-in-which


Whoa.

28 Memes That Accurately Describe How Awesome You and Your BFFs Are

Best friends are the people in life that know you so well, one look is all it takes for them to get how you feel. And there are just some things only they would appreciate - like when they convince you to take another drink (but show up to your house the next day with a hangover burrito) or when they text you their bodily functions.

After all, it's thanks to your best friends that you make the best and worst decisions of your life, knowing that they'll always be there no matter what. Check out some of our favorite memes from Instagram that perfectly capture these BFF moments.

Drapple Is a Thing All Harry Potter Fans Need to Know About Right F*cking Now

Harry Potter fans are many things. Creative, brilliant, hilarious, and sometimes, we're a little weird. I talked with Tom Felton aka Draco Malfoy at the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hollywood, and I obviously had to ask him the most important hard-hitting question of all: what's his favorite pair to ship in the Harry Potter world? When he asked me if I knew what "Drapple" was, everything I thought I knew about Harry Potter, Harry Potter fans, the internet, and life in general flew out the window. Basically, Drapple is a romantic relationship pairing that fans ship, or pull for, and it involves Draco Malfoy and an apple. A green one, like the one that started this madness in a scene in Prizoner of Azkaban. I actually felt like a terrible fan for not knowing about this, um, unique ship, which people argue is canon because, OK technically it is.

He does caress one lovingly in The Half-Blood Prince as he pulls it out of the Vanishing Cabinet. And the way he bites into that crisp, juicy fruit in The Prisoner of Azkaban does seem sexy, I guess? Sh*t, I think I've spent too much time in the depths of Tumblr . . . because am I shipping Drapple now too? No, for me, it's Dramione for life. Here's some of the internet's most creative Drapple memes, GIFs, and fan art that may have you weirdly shipping the pair but will definitely have you laughing out loud.

The Best iPhone 8 Plus Cases of 2018

If there's one thing we can say for certain, it's that no new iPhone is complete without the perfect case. But at the same time, actually finding the perfect case can be one of the most tizzy-inducing experiences of our modern lives. But never fear! We've gone through all of the best cases currently available for purchase and found all of the ones that are unquestionably worth the money (and will jazz up your style). We'll be continuing to add to this list as the year goes on, but ahead, find all the cases we're certain you'll fall in love with - and be sure to check back to see what else 2018 has in store for your iPhone 8 Plus!

Meet the Woman Behind Barbie's Newfound Curves and Hair Textures

For many women, Barbie was their first doll, and an inspirational one at that. Known for her long blond locks and her pink dreamhouse, Barbie was the trailblazer of her fictional, plastic world. Running for president, going to space, and finding love and great outfits along the way, Barbie seemed to prove that women can "have it all." But, while Barbie's résumé is stocked with accomplishments and firsts, her controversial physical frame remained more or less the same over the decades, even as her storylines evolved. Her large bust and unrealistically small waist have been the subjects of some very heated debates about body image. Barbie, ultimately, just didn't look like the young girls and women who'd buy her, and while she may have encouraged her owners to achieve their dreams, it was near impossible - and, frankly, toxic - for women to aspire to look like her.

It wasn't until 2016 that Barbie got the ultimate makeover. After decades of pressure and weakening sales, Mattel unveiled a healthier, more realistic-looking Barbie with its Fashionistas line - and Mattel's VP of Barbie Design Kim Culmone led the charge.

The line includes three new body shapes - curvy, petite, and tall - and more skin tones and hair textures. It was Mattel's answer to its diversity problem, and it was a hit, resonating with existing Barbie fans and even gaining some new ones. But why the wait? And what really went into Barbie's new look?

Hulu's new documentary Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie answers these questions, giving Barbie lovers - and sure, even her haters - a look into possibly the most significant transformation in Barbie history, let alone pop culture. Not only does Tiny Shoulders look into the making of the Fashionista line, or as Mattel refers to, "Project Dawn," but it's also a history lesson in all things Barbie, from the woman behind the doll to Barbie's controversial reputation during the feminist movement of the '60s and '70s. Culmone spoke with POPSUGAR about Project Dawn, and what it was like having Barbie's anticipated, yet risky, transformation documented on film.

POPSUGAR: Growing up, what was your own relationship with Barbie? Did you have any favorite Barbie moments?
Kim Culmone: I was a huge fan of Barbie growing up. It's nearly impossible, I think, for me to isolate a favorite Barbie moment. Probably one of the most memorable would be getting the Barbie Dreamhouse which is [in] one of the photographs of me as a kid, with my mom, on Christmas morning. So, that was a big moment because that house becomes the central figure in a lot of Barbie play. But I have the Dreamhouse, and the Corvette, and actually have the townhouse as well - and tons of Barbies. I was an equal opportunity toy player, though. I had Hot Wheels as well. I had a combination of boys' toys and girls' toys. I had Tinkertoys and Legos - or what we classified as boys' toys, I should say. But Barbie was my number one.

"I, like a lot of us, grew up with my own body image issues."

PS: Tiny Shoulders deals a lot with the connection between poor body image and Barbie. Do you see Barbie ever disassociating herself from that backlash? In your role, how have you tried to reverse this?
KC: I think you saw [it] in the film: by the introduction of additional body types. [That] is our effort to expand the images associated with what is beautiful, or what is represented in society, so I think that the movie itself and that introduction is a really good example of that.

Image Source: Getty / Andrew Toth

PS: Is there one example, initiative, or doll that you are really proud of for defying those stereotypes?
KC: I wouldn't say that there's one, because I think the power is in the inclusivity and diversity . . . I think people focus on the curvy doll, but I think that the messaging is really important. That having different types of bodies is what we should be focusing on, and the fact that there isn't just one representation of body in the Barbie line. Because there isn't one representation of body in the world.

PS: Were you hesitant about participating in the film? How did the documentary came about?
KC: I would say, first of all, I give Mattel as a company a lot of credit for welcoming Andrea (Andrea Blaugrund Nevins, Tiny Shoulders director) and her team into the inner sanctum of our corporation, and to such an important brand like Barbie at this really critical time. And so that took a lot of trust, and that was on both sides. Andrea's built trust with us as a team that was being documented, and Mattel generously offered her the opportunity to get behind the scenes, into the inner workings of this critical moment of the Barbie brand. For me, personally, I didn't hesitate, because I was honored to be leading the team that would be the design team. The part of our team - the design team that would be making this change - and the idea of what I felt was so important to happen in the world, for it to be documented for Barbie history and for the world to see was exciting. So while there are many vulnerable moments for me in the movie, and it was at times uncomfortable to just be in front of the camera in that way - especially while you're working - I felt like it was important to do. So I was happy to do it.

PS: Barbie has faced backlash ever since she first came out. What do you hope a Barbie hater will take away from this documentary?
KC: I honestly hope that they, perhaps, see Barbie through a different lens. It's a journey. Hearing criticism is first difficult to do, but I really observe it and listen to it through a lens of both empathy and responsibility. Empathy meaning that everybody is in the world with a different perspective. And I completely respect and honor that. And responsibility comes in with listening to the criticism because criticism as feedback can help us evolve and be better. And if it's right for the brand to think about making changes, then we always want to be open to listening to that.

PS: A lot goes into consideration when you're making a huge brand shift like that. What was the most challenging part of her transformation, from a creative and design perspective especially, and what was the most rewarding?
KC: Well, the most rewarding is being able to have an impact on a brand that has such an influential place in the lives of children and in culture. It's a huge responsibility, and it's also an honor to be part of the team that's trusted with making those kind of changes. As you saw in the movie and as you note, there are so many aspects to this that pointing to just one that was the most difficult is challenging. But getting the bodies, choosing the shape of each of the individual bodies was probably [what required] the most dialogue. And then probably the naming process - what do we call [them] in a respectful way that is appropriate for children, as well? Everything that we do is for kids, and so we have to be very cautious about what we're doing. And then what works around the world? What would work globally? How do we reference these bodies? Is this dialogue happening in all the places in the world that Barbie is sold? So we have different foot sizes now. The curvy doll and the tall doll have different sized feet. Those complications take a lot of discussion at the team levels.

PS: So, why the name Project Dawn?
KC: The name Project Dawn came from our design team, because we looked at this as the dawning of a new day for the brand. [We] code-name projects that we want to make sure have a heightened sense of security and sensitivity around them, even within the organization. So there was a lot of behind-closed-doors work, even further from our normal sense of confidentiality. This had one of the most exclusive confidentiality processes that I've ever experienced while working on the brand because of the sensitivity of it.

Image Source: Hulu

PS: Could you name one favorite thing about the new four sizes of Barbie that you really loved specifically, whether it's not having the thigh gap, or maybe the hair textures?
KC: It's challenging. I mean, we talked about the thigh gap in the film, and I would say it's an important part of the discussion in our contemporary society. To me, really the favorite thing is the variety. I do love the fact that we have a new hair texture, and if I had to maybe pick two things that I love the most, I would say it's that we have a curvy doll on the line and that we have hair texture and skin tones that are more representative of people in the world. It's a very broad range. Even down to facial features on the dolls. There are dolls who have facial features that are more representative of black women, and that's important to us.

PS: Were there any experiences in your own life that really led to championing those efforts of making more skin tones and hair textures?
KC: Yeah, I allude to it, as you saw in the film, a little bit. I, like a lot of us, grew up with my own body image issues. And I have experiences in my life, and parts of who I am, that have meant that I have direct experience with what it feels like to not be represented or seen in a lot of the images and conversations in our world. I think if you asked the majority of the people across our brand, whether that's on marketing, or PR, or design, or anywhere, a lot of people have those same stories. But uniquely, as a designer, that becomes the lens that you use when you're creating, and that develops a real-world experience that shapes your level of empathy for what it feels like to not be represented. And so I think that inspired a lot of us, and I know it inspired myself, to want to advocate for some of the changes that we have made to the products.

PS: Why do you feel Barbie is relevant today?
KC: I think Barbie's relevant today because she does evolve, and the brand does evolve and works to, as you saw in the film, really take very seriously staying connected to today's girls and parents. We spend a lot of time listening to our consumers. I also believe that the open-ended play pattern with Barbie - the fact that girls can project their dreams, aspirations, hopes, and tell the stories they want to tell through a brand - it isn't a closed play pattern, meaning she isn't just one defined character (Editor's note: "play pattern" is a term used in the toy industry to describe the way a child uses a toy.) She can be anything which lets girls tell endless stories about their own potential and project their own narrative onto Barbie as a tool for self-expression.

PS: Where do you see Barbie 10 years from now?
KC: I see Barbie doing a lot of [what] Barbie is doing now. Look, when the Fashionista line launched with the new bodies and more inclusivity, that was just the beginning of this process. Since then, we have done the same for Ken. We've changed Ken's body. We've introduced more heroes that celebrate women that are living the purpose of this brand, that are living the concept of having limitless potential in their lives, and that are an inspiration and [are] role models to girls. We launched our #MoreRoleModels activation recently. We're pushing boundaries. We did one-of-a-kind dolls, [like] Ibtihaj Muhammad, our first US Olympian who competed in a hijab. These are women that are truly living the Barbie purpose and we continue to stand by what we started in 2016 with the launch of [Project Dawn] to represent people and inclusivity and to showcase and highlight people living that purpose.

Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie will be available for streaming on Hulu on April 27.

43 Insanely Creative Cosplays to Inspire You

From historically accurate costumes to creative combinations of different fandoms, cosplayers always find a way to make their elaborate outfits stand out. At this year's WonderCon, held in Anaheim, CA, over the weekend, cosplayers from all over the country brought their A game. Don't let their hard work go to waste, so check out these incredible cosplays and start preparing for your next con.

9 Next-Level Relationship Goals

Are you madly in geek love? Good, because the Internet is going to motivate you to take your amour to the next level. In what follows, the funniest relationship goals designed just for gamers, nerds, and other geeks. Try to hit all 9 before the New Year?

What Is It Like to Be in an Open Marriage? 1 Woman Shares Her Story

Sara and Ben (names have been changed) are a happily married, millennial couple in an open relationship. We reached out to Sara to share some insight into their journey to polyamory, the ground rules they've set, and what it's like to date other people - and maybe even fall in love with other people - when you're already married to someone you love.

How long have you been with your husband?

We've been together for nine years. We met on our first day of college - I was determined to break out of my nerdy shell and sit next to the cutest person in the room. I was really drawn to Ben. He ended up being super quiet and thus I was convinced that he hated me, but in actuality he was just nervous (and a soft-spoken person). We became friends, and the rest is history.

When did you decide to have an open relationship?

We started talking about being monogamish (which later evolved into full-blown polyamory, haha) about two years into our relationship. Seven years ago.

Who initiated it? How did the conversation go?

Ben is an open-minded person who has never been a big believer in social constructions or tradition. I am a bit more of a rule follower, but definitely liberal and nonjudgmental. He brought up the idea of him being comfortable with me casually dating other people early on in our relationship. He knew that he was my first boyfriend (I was 18), and he didn't want me to feel like I was missing out on dating. We talked about nonmonogamy in theory for a long time (two years?) before ever acting on it. In hindsight, I feel like this gave me time to get used to the idea and for us to build a solid foundation. One of my biggest takeaways from our relationship (and from hearing about other couple's open relationships) is that a successful nonmongamous relationship centers on honest communication and a strong connection between the couple.

How would you describe your relationship?

Our relationship has evolved over time, but the constant has been how close we are with one another. We've been consistently super happy together for almost a decade! The other constant is that since becoming "monogamish" (and eventually, "poly"), we've always dated separately.

At first, we were monogamous (I was 18 and didn't know much about any other relationship structures). Ben mentioned that he would be comfortable with me casually dating other people early on in our relationship, and it was then something we talked about every once in a while for a few years. These conversations were happy and exploratory. When we graduated college (and moved in together), I met someone who I could see myself dating. Ben was comfortable with me exploring it, and I casually went on a few dates. From there, we talked about opening the relationship on his end as well, and I was surprised by how nonjealous I felt. We took it really slow (lots and lots of conversation) and occasionally dated outside of our relationship. As time went on, the "casual" piece has become less and less important. I dated someone for over a year, and the consistency (and depth) was really nice. Ben was fully supportive - in fact, he prefers when I date someone longer term, because he trusts that I'm safe (dating new people can feel scary - you never know who might be a creep!). He has been seeing two women for about eight months, and again I am surprised by how normal it feels.

Logistically, we tend to see the other people we're dating (if we're dating other people) about once a week. I have an incredibly busy career (whereas Ben's is more mellow), so he might go on two dates a week (almost always during times when I am busy anyways). I am super picky and not always seeing someone, but when I am, I like to see them once a week. In the past I have spent the night at a boyfriend's house, but Ben has not spent the night anywhere.

Do you ever get jealous? Does he?

Making the other person feel valued and primary is extremely important to Ben and me. This really helps minimize jealousy. We spend most of our free time together and try to be intentional about the quality of that time (e.g. putting our phones away and actually connecting). We've both acknowledged that if our foundation wasn't strong, we would probably feel more jealousy.

We shared a big laugh when we realized just how weird/unusual it is for a husband to comfort his wife about her breakup with a boyfriend.

Do you have ground rules? If so, what are they?

The biggest rule is communication - we try hard to balance respect for our other partners' privacy with open communication between the two of us. We are also always honest with the people we are dating. Everyone knows right off the bat that we are happily married, and thus not looking for a lifelong commitment. We also feel strongly about treating the people we date with respect and care (and expect to be treated the same). It makes me really happy (but also disappointed) that several of the women Ben has dated have said that he is the kindest, most respectful man they've been with.

This isn't a rule but more of a practice: we have not met one another's partners in the past. This might also help minimize jealousy. Not meeting one another's partners also allows each of us to have an identity outside of our marriage, which is nice. However, we're both open to meeting someone the other person is dating if they felt strongly about it.

Another big (and hopefully obvious) rule is condoms. We believe in safe sex for everyone, not just open couples!

Have you fallen in love with someone you've dated?

Yes - I've been in love with one other person. It was not the same as the deep love I feel for Ben, but it was fun and meaningful. Ben didn't feel threatened and was an amazing source of support when we eventually broke up. We shared a big laugh when we realized just how weird/unusual it is for a husband to comfort his wife about her breakup with a boyfriend. Ben hasn't fallen in love with anyone (he is a private person, and the women he is dating are not looking for serious relationships). If he did fall in love, I don't think it would bother me. We both feel strongly that our relationships with other people don't take away from how we feel about each other.

Do your friends or family know?

My sister (who is also my best friend) and her husband know, which is extremely helpful. Finally telling them was a massive relief. I felt like I was living a double life for a while there, which I hated. We've also told a few close friends, all of whom have been awesome and supportive. The idea of telling our parents makes us both want to poop our pants, and thus will never happen (nor does it need to). I'm not particularly close with the rest of my family, so there is really no need to tell them.

This past year, we've been trying to tell new friends early on, because it is much less awkward. This has been a great strategy! We tend to attract open-minded people into our lives, so no one has had a terrible response thus far.

What type of guys do you go for? Are they similar or different than your husband?

I tend to be attracted to older men, which is different from Ben (he is only a couple of months older than I am). My long-term boyfriend was hilariously similar to Ben in some ways (both surfers, they liked similar bands and movies, similar styles of dress, etc.).

What type of women does your husband go for? Are they similar to you or different?

Ben tends to go for women who are a bit more free-spirited than I am - which is fine by me! He can go camping with them while I enjoy the comfort of a real bed. The women he dates do tend to be intellectual like I am. They sound like awesome people who I could easily be friends with.

How has this arrangement helped your relationship?

I am 100 percent convinced that being in an open relationship has made our relationship better. We've honestly become closer through sharing our dating experiences with one another. We've always had an awesome sex life, and it's fun to be able to have sexual experiences outside of the relationship (it takes a lot of pressure for us to be all things for the other person).

Do you have kids or plan on having kids? How will this affect your decision to have an open relationship?

We're unsure about kids but would probably be monogamous during the baby phase (only because of time constraints). Our biggest commitment to one another is to keep talking honestly and continually reevaluating the structure of our relationship. Originally we weren't sure if we were going to be nonmonogamous for 10 minutes, or 10 years. It's all about making sure we're both happy. We're so grateful to have found one another and joke that we're two little aliens in love. We don't know if our relationship will always be open, but we do feel strongly that we'll be together.

This Cherry Blossom Tree Made Entirely Out of Lego Bricks Is Both Beautiful and Trippy

Legoland Japan is celebrating its one-year anniversary and cherry blossom season by casually setting a world record. The theme park in Nagoya recently created the largest cherry blossom tree made entirely out of Lego bricks, per Guinness World Records.

The plastic sakura tree - designed and assembled at a model shop in the Czech Republic - is roughly 14 feet in height and consists of a whopping 800,000 bricks. The tree is adorned with several "paper" lanterns that light up at night to make the tree that much more picturesque. Ahead, see a few pictures of the park's springtime addition and watch a video detailing its construction.

47 Ways to Add Literary Charm to Your Wedding

Bookworm brides, you'll want to see this! We're not ashamed to admit we have a nerdy side, and we think book- and library-inspired details would make any engagement party, bridal shower, or wedding that much more of a page-turner. So if you're a bookworm like us, dive into these ideas for adding literary charm to your big-day celebrations.

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.

15 Glorious Pics That Prove Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen Are Soul Mates

Some friendships are ones you can aspire to, while others - like the one between Sir Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellen - are simply out of a dream. You've probably seen pictures of them hanging together and audibly giggled at their adventures or admired their ability to truly be there for each other as friends.

The pair, who met on the set of X-Men in 1999, are no strangers to talking about their friendship and sharing important parts of their life with each other. After all, Ian did officiate Patrick's wedding to Sunny Ozell in 2013. "We fell into each other's arms because of our similarities in our career, and because of our age and because we like the same sort of things," said McKellen to The Huffington Post about their relationship.

Look ahead to see some of our favorite moments they've shared together - it might make you wish you were their friend too.

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.

35 Unique Travel Tattoos to Fuel Your Eternal Wanderlust

Warning: Only committed travelers allowed. If you have a never-ending case of wanderlust, this awe-inspiring ink is perfect for you. Check out all 35 of our most favorite tattoos from those who roam the globe.

21 Tragic Photos That Capture the Devastating Aftermath of Guatemala's Volcanic Eruption

On June 3, Guatemala's Fuego volcano erupted, releasing rivers of red-hot lava and shooting clouds of smoke nearly six miles into the air. At least 25 people have been confirmed as dead so far, with the death toll expected to rise, and dozens others are still missing due to the natural disaster, which has been dubbed the country's "most violent volcano eruption in more than a century," according to BBC News.

The volcano, which is situated just 25 miles southwest of the capital, Guatemala City, erupted for 16 and a half hours, burying surrounding villages in thick ash, rocks, and mud, trapping some in their homes. More than 3,000 people have been evacuated and moved to temporary shelters, and Guatemala's main airport is currently closed due to the eruption. Below, take a look at 21 images of the damage to see just how devastatingly destructive it truly was.

Cardi B's Personal Grooming Struggles While Pregnant Will Hit WAY Too Close to Home

Cardi B confirmed her pregnancy on Saturday Night Live back in April and has just officially declared that she's in the "leave me alone" phase. While in that phase, however, the singer revealed that she's going through a struggle - more specifically, she tweeted a little something about what her baby bump is blocking her from seeing.

The tweet got so many likes that Cardi responded with more details about how she's dealing with personal grooming now that her belly is in the way.

When a fan suggested she get a wax, the 25-year-old rapper wasn't having it.

Although it's a pretty personal struggle, we know a lot of moms are definitely nodding their heads in agreement. Those pregnant bellies take over!

Demi Lovato's Swimsuit Instagrams Aren't Just Sexy - They're Incredibly Empowering

Is Demi Lovato's Instagram account the sexiest it's ever been? This year, the "Confident" singer has been filling our feed with photos of her in a swimsuit, and we're "sorry not sorry" about it. Not only does she look absolutely stunning, but her snaps are also incredibly empowering. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Demi spoke candidly about her past struggles with body image and how she has "surrendered to the process of just learning to love" herself in 2018.

In January, she opened up about the inspiring new mantra when she posted a smiley photo of herself in a swimsuit, despite feeling "insecure" about her legs. "This year I've decided I'm letting go of my perfectionism and embracing freedom from self criticism," she wrote in a lengthy caption. "Learning to love my body the way it is is challenging but life changing. Giving up my eating disorder has been the most challenging journey of my life but I work every day towards solid recovery even if I mess up sometimes. Today I'm feeling strong. You all can do it too. It IS possible. Thank you God for this new chapter in my life." Here's to even more sexy and empowering photos in the near future!

30 of the Best Latin Songs You Can Do a Zumba Workout To

If you didn't already know this, Zumba is a great way to exercise because you are essentially working out every single part of your body. Plus, you can do it while listening to some of your most-loved artists - picture yourself doing Zumba to Daddy Yankee's "Hula Hoop" or Carlos Vives and Shakira's "Bicicleta." The best part is that thanks to YouTube, you can follow Zumba workouts from wherever you are. Grab some workout gear and get ready to dance along to some of your favorite songs.

The 3 Most Important Decorating Elements, According to a Designer

The way Shannon Smith transforms a bare apartment into a cozy home might cause you to confuse her for a magician, or an interior design fairy godmother at the very least. The Homepolish interior designer can do wonders to a space no matter how tight the budget or small the square footage.

The secret to creating a stunning home, she says, is to focus on three things when decorating. "I am a firm believer that you don't need a lot of stuff to make your space feel finished. If you consider these three things - texture, color, and scale - you can make any space feel cozy."

Keep reading to hear what Shannon has to say about approaching each.

20 Recipes That Will Make You Want to Get an Instant Pot ASAP

Chances are you've been seeing Instant Pot recipes all over the internet lately. If you're scratching your head wondering what exactly that means or if an instant pot is the same thing as a slow cooker, allow this beginner breakdown to help. The Instant Pot is a countertop cooking tool that's like a cross between a pressure cooker, a slow cooker, and a sauté pan. According to its description, it's a "multi-cooker, capable of replacing a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker/porridge maker, sauté/browning pan, steamer, yogurt maker, and stockpot warmer."

Plenty of bloggers and cooks are fans of the Instant Pot and have figured out how to make chicken, soups, rice, and even cheesecake in the appliance. If you're curious about experimenting with an Instant Pot - and potentially replacing your slow cooker - read ahead for more recipes to start with.

The Best (and Worst) Trader Joe's Rosés Under $6

There are countless ways to get your Rosé fix, from boozy push pops to DIY Rosé gummy bears, but nothing beats a good bottle - especially when it's under $6! Trader Joe's has an impressively large assortment of affordable Rosé right now, but deciding which bottle to choose can be tricky. Our editors took one for the team and taste tested five Rosés from Trader Joe's that cost less than $6. Turns out, there was a clear winner. Check out the five bottles we tried - ranked from worst to tastiest - and discover our top pick at the end!

Chicken Parm Meatballs Combine 2 Comforting Italian-American Classics

40+ Make-Ahead Appetizers, the Secret Weapon of Smart Hosts Everywhere

With many moving pieces to manage, planning and hosting a cocktail party can frazzle even a seasoned host. But, it doesn't have to be that way - at least, it doesn't have to be as stressful as you might imagine. The smart host's secret is to do as much of the party prep as you can in the days prior to your party. That means choosing a pitcher-friendly punch recipe over cocktails, stocking up on beer and wine in the days leading up to the party, and relying mostly on make-ahead appetizers, like the 40+ options that we've rounded up.

12 Tips From Ina Garten That Will Make You a Better Cook

Ina Garten: queen of the culinary world. She's written tons of cookbooks, starred in Food Network's Barefoot Contessa for over a decade, and won fans over with countless foolproof recipes. The woman knows a lot, and lucky for you and me, she's never shied away from sharing her advice. Read on for her best cooking tips. Before long, you'll be the one saying, "How easy is that?"

  1. Follow recipes to a T. When Epicurious asked her if she follows recipes when cooking at home, she said, "Exactly. To the half teaspoon. I measure everything, because I always think that if I've spent so much time making sure this recipe was exactly the way I want it, why would I want to throw things into a pot? I'm really a scientist."
  2. Respect ingredients. Simple is better, especially when cooking with fresh produce. "Buy things in season, and then only do what you need to do to make [food] taste as good as it can taste," she told Epicurious.
  3. Add coffee to chocolate. If you've ever seen Ina's recipe for brownies, you know she's a fan of enhancing the flavor of chocolate. "If you add coffee to chocolate, it gives it a depth of flavor," she said.
  4. When in doubt, add a little acidity. "Sometimes you taste something delicious, but a little hit of lemon juice or lemon zest or vinegar will just sort of wake it up," she explained.
  5. When entertaining, set out simple snacks instead of making elaborate appetizers. In an interview with IndieBound, she said, "I serve very simple nibbles like roasted cashews and good olives - nothing wrapped in phyllo. I never serve a first course, just a delicious dinner and dessert."
  6. Relaxing meals are simple meals. When asked what kind of meal she enjoys when she wants to relax, she said, "My favorite meal is a simple roast chicken with vegetables in the roasting pan.
  7. Don't be afraid to keep seasoning and tasting until your recipe is just right. When talking about her recipes with Food and Wine, she explained, "I just want something really, really flavorful, and I just keep going and going and testing things over and over again until I hear that sort of ping in my head that says, 'That's the flavor I'm looking for.' . . . I keep going until it's exactly what I'm looking for."
  8. Add salt to your microwaveable oatmeal. Ina is not ashamed to admit she eats quick-cooking oatmeal, but her tip from Bon Appétit makes all the difference: "Most people don't do their oatmeal with salt, and I think that without it, it just tastes like wallpaper paste. With salt, I think it's delicious."
  9. Riff off of your staple recipes. "I would say pick five recipes that are really simple - like roast chicken, macaroni and cheese, grilled fish - then do variations on those five recipes," Ina told Bon Appétit. If you can make macaroni and cheese, you can make lobster macaroni and cheese. . . . I think people get too complicated and spend too much time trying to impress everybody."
  10. Season your food throughout - not just at the end of - the cooking process. "It enhances the flavor of whatever you're cooking and makes food taste seasoned - not salty," she told Redbook.
  11. Think about every detail of a dinner party before it starts. Along with other hosting advice Ina gave The Kitchn, she said, "Music is the first key. Make sure there's music, so it feels like a party when people walk in the door. Put the drinks out on a bar so people can serve themselves."
  12. Make meals ahead of time as often as possible. She didn't write Make It Ahead: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook for nothing. Ina preaches the value of make-ahead recipes from a time- and stress-saving standpoint, but she also notes that some meals taste even better when they've had time to sit. "Salads like the quinoa tabbouleh with feta are better because the vinaigrette and freshly squeezed lemon juice really soak into the quinoa," she told Today Food.

5 Things to Crush, Crumble, and Smash With Your Citrus Squeezer

A citrus squeezer is one of those tools that you can get a lot of mileage out of just in its intended use. Think of all the dishes, sauces, and beverages that call for citrus juice - salad dressings, micheladas, and, of course, fresh-squeezed lemonade - the humble citrus squeezer makes it all happen. However, citrus fruits aren't the only food that you can fit snugly in the bed of a citrus squeezer and violently squish with glee.

In fact, there are items that are neither citrus nor fruit that can use some squeezing in order to yield something useful for cooking. Here are five completely unexpected foods that you can transform with a citrus squeezer.

78 Easy Dinners That Won't Break the Bank

The act of cooking dinner from scratch rather than turning to takeout or microwave meals is a money-saving strategy in itself, so if you're reading this, you're already off to a great start! Beyond that, consider making vegetarian meals out of staples like beans and other legumes, rice, quinoa, pasta, and eggs. (While less meat-centric recipes are typically more affordable, inexpensive cuts like ground beef and turkey, chicken thighs, and bacon have a place in budget-friendly meal planning, especially when they're not the main event.) To make things easier, we curated more than 75 recipes that won't break the bank; keep reading for inspiration.

50 Cupcake Recipes, Because Sometimes More Is More

We'll always have a soft spot for cupcakes; they're cute, individually-portioned - because really, no one likes sharing - festive, and infinitely adaptable. Sure, you could hit up Sprinkles to get your fix, but why not bake your own? We've rounded up 50 stellar recipes ranging from the classics (Magnolia Bakery's vanilla, red velvet, and funfetti) to the super-creative (cotton candy, chocolate tahini, and honey lavender). Pin your favorites, and you'll be all set on the inspiration-front the next time a celebration rolls around.

25 Adorable Dog Hybrids You Had No Idea Existed

A Golden Retriever puppy is cute, but a Goldendoodle? We're goners. There's something about a mix-breed dog that sends everyone into a frenzy, and trust us - once you've seen a Pomsky, there's really no going back to loving only one type of dog. Whether you choose to adopt or purchase a mixed breed from a reputable breeder, having a hybrid dog is like getting the best of both worlds. Don't believe us? Just take a look at the mixed breeds ahead and tell us you don't want one ASAP.

10 Delicious Trader Joe's Meal Hacks to Make Dinner Easy

How can you hack a delicious homemade meal in minutes without resorting to a frozen entree? We asked our editors to share their tips for fast, easy, and tasty dinners thrown together with a handful of Trader Joe's products, so you can become an even savvier cook on busy weeknights. With a combination of fresh and prepped ingredients from the affordable grocery brand, we've come up with some pretty ideal dinners that can easily be thrown together after work. From spruced-up soup to cheap chopped salad and spicy taco bowls, these ideas will inspire you to skip the takeout.

Cat-Lovers, You're Going to Obsess Over These Insane Products We Found on Amazon!

If you have a cat, we have no doubt that you love to spoil them. If you normally treat them to a new comfy bed or a pretty food bowl, we took it a whole new level this time. We looked to Catit, a brand that is filled with an array of useful and also stylish products we can't get enough of. Plus, they're all sold on Amazon Prime and will be delivered right to your door. From modern scratching posts to sleek cat-house decor and an adorable water fountain, you won't be able to contain yourself over the hilarious cuteness. Take a look and treat the boss of your house to one (or two!) of these fun picks.

17 Weeknight Dinner Recipes From The Pioneer Woman That Make Life Easier

We might not all be able to re-create Ree Drummond's picturesque ranch and gorgeous kitchen at home, but at least we can re-create her dinners. And if there's anyone you should be drawing weeknight dinner inspiration from, it's Ree, a mother of four and master of fast, easy, and comforting recipes that you can whip up in a flash. Ahead, we've rounded up 17 of The Pioneer Woman's best weeknight dinners that you'll actually look forward to cooking, like pasta with pesto cream sauce, garlic-lemon shrimp, sheet-pan pork chops, and more. All of these tried-and-true recipes will make your life easier (and tastier).

Are Spiralized Veggies Actually Worth the Hype? A Pasta Enthusiast Investigates

Erin, 25, addicted to pasta. Thanks to my upbringing in a large Italian family, my obsession with carbs started early on and has very much carried over into my adult life. My idea of a good dinner involves a big-ass bowl of pasta with plenty of garlic and parmesan cheese, so I've been totally hesitant to get on board with the increasingly popular spiralized-veggie trend.

Yes, I love zucchini, but zucchini posing as noodles? Can't fool me. But just when I tell myself I can get by on an 80-percent-pasta diet, Adult Erin chimes in and reminds Young Erin that she can't (well, can, but really shouldn't). So, somewhat begrudgingly, I decided to try zoodles to see if I approve of all the hype. Here's how it went.

First thing's first - using a spiralizer is FUN. You get to watch a stumpy vegetable transform into tons of twirly strands, and it's pretty mesmerizing. I used the Inspiralizer by the founder of the blog Inspiralized, but you can use any spiralizer or even spiralize veggies without a spiralizer, too. What I liked about this tool is it suctions to your counterop to prevent slipping, and you don't have to handle the different blades with your hands. You turn a nob to choose the thickness you want (ribbon noodles, fettucine, linguine, or spaghetti), and you just use your hand to turn a handle as the zucchini pushes forward into the blade, and zoodles start to spill out on the other side.

After successfully spiralizing three zucchinis, I took a moment to admire my handywork. Check out all those twirly strands of veggies! Notice how I am not calling these "noodles," because that's just sacrilege.

Then comes the cooking. The perk of cooking zoodles is you don't have to wait around for a big pot of water to boil. All you have to do is sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil and salt until they're softened, which takes about five minutes. This is the closest thing you'll get to mimicking the al dente texture of perfectly cooked pasta.

Once the zucchini is cooked, you can customize it just like you would any pasta dish. I added leftover slow-cooker bolognese sauce and topped mine with parmesan cheese and a little fresh basil. After marveling at the final product, I decided I was indeed excited to try it. And guess what? I really, really liked it! The hearty sauce rounded out the vegetable-ness of the zucchini, and getting the satisfaction of twirling the zoodles around my fork almost tricked me into thinking I was eating spaghetti. The best part was the difference in how I felt after eating a whole bowl of zoodles versus actual noodles: no bloated feeling! No carb crash! I was full and satisfied, and I didn't want to immediately take a nap. Also, I decided zoodles are definitely better than the other impasta (get it?), spaghetti squash. I am . . . officially . . . on the zoodles train. I'm definitely going to make this again. But I'm just not going to call it pasta.