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 9 juin 2018
4 Crucial Lessons Minimalism Has Taught Me
When I graduated university and came back to the room I grew up in, I realized I had the massive job of cleaning ahead of me. I've always been quite a messy person and I used to hate cleaning. I had huge collections of perfume samples, mini shampoos, pencils, and scrap paper.
As I stood there, barely able to walk into my room, I remembered a documentary I watched on Netflix last year about minimalism. I really liked the ideas when I watched it, but didn't make the effort to apply them at the time. So I put it on again to get some motivation.
After watching about 20 minutes, I got kind of excited to start cleaning. I put on some headphones and let the audio keep playing as I started to clean up my closet. I found this very motivational, so as I continued to clean through the week, I would listen to different YouTube videos and audiobooks about minimalism.
I'm far from being a minimalist, but the simple techniques I've learned so far have already improved my outlook on cleaning (and life) so much. It's really about simplifying life and prioritizing happiness.
Here are the most useful tips I've learned:
- For every object you own, ask yourself, "Does this bring me joy?" If the answer is no, then donate or throw away the item. If the answer is yes, but you don't have any room for it, thank the item for the good times and then say goodbye. As stupid as this sounds, it actually works! Obviously, if the item brings you lots of joy and you have space for it, then keep it! This is a tip from minimalism master Marie Kondo.
- Start by letting go of the things that you have the least amount of emotional attachment to (the closet is a good place to start).
- If you're having trouble letting go of an item that you love but don't use, think about how it could be enjoyed by someone else rather than sitting alone, all sad and dusty in your closet.
- Enjoy the process of seeing immediate results as you clean!
As I kept cleaning, I started to realize that physical baggage was also emotional baggage. I realized how I was literally going through my past, deciding which memories to keep and which ones to let go of. It was also a time for self-reflection. In my past objects and clothing, I could see who I once was - how I've changed and what's remained the same. In this way, cleaning is fun; you rediscover treasures, learn about yourself, and clear your mind. And really, our environment is just a reflection of our mind - after all, we do create the spaces around us. Minimalism isn't about owning nothing; it is about reflecting on each item you own and its effect on your state of mind.
If you allow it, the principles of minimalism expand far beyond keeping your room clean into every aspect of life. The question "Does this bring me joy?" is so important not only for tidying up, but for everything we do.
200+ Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the type of person who hates to throw anything away, then turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects.
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2018
If there's one resolution you actually commit to in 2018, let it be travel. It may not be your typical fitness or organization-oriented goal, but it can make you richer in terms of self-growth, new experiences, and even personal happiness. And all of that is far more valuable than any annual goal you usually make.
With endless sources of travel inspiration available, figuring out where to go next is the toughest part. But we've eliminated all the hard work for you, so that all that's left for you to do is choose. From rising hot spots to destinations you never knew existed, these are the top 10 places to travel to in 2018.
Where will you go?
1. Boracay, PhilippinesThis small island in the central Philippines only spans four and a half miles long, but you'll find that to be plenty when you see all the natural beauty Boracay has to offer. Navigate the mini paradise via bike and spend your stay sunbathing on White Beach, collecting puka shells on Yapak, or sipping on cocktails while the sun goes down and fire dancers come out.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia Reminiscent of Amsterdam's famous canals while blending Mediterranean, German, and Slovenian culture, Ljubljana is a beautiful combination of old and new. The Ljubljanica River divides the capital's Old Town from its commercial Center district, marked by the city's most iconic landmark, the Triple Bridge. You'll find it difficult to not fall in love, as Ljubljana boasts as much charm and wonderful architecture as it does museums, outdoor cafes, green landscapes, and rich history. 3. Ninh Binh, VietnamWhile most travelers flock to Hanoi, Vietnam's majestic rural side in the Red River Delta is sometimes overlooked. However, as more people begin to recognize Ninh Binh's serene landscapes as a reason to add it to their itineraries, it's only a matter of time until the northern area becomes the next popular place to be. With its limestone cliffs, temples, lush green valleys, and hiking trails and caves, this province easily takes a top spot.
4. Sucre, BoliviaBolivia's capital is known for its whitewashed buildings and colonial architecture, but there's also plenty more to do and see. The historic city of Sucre offers a number of museums, cathedrals, and landmarks, including its main square, Plaza 25 de Mayo, and Casa de la Libertad - and it's also home to one of the largest sets of dinosaur footprints in the world.5. Seoul, South Korea Seoul is where pop culture, technology, and tradition blend. You'll see both fashion-forward streetwear and traditional hanboks, skyscrapers and Buddhist temples, street markets and made-for-Instagram cafes. Its high-tech subways also allow easy access to neighboring cities in case you want to explore past South Korea's capital. Spend your mornings palace hopping and tea sipping at Insadong, and then see the city come to life from the N Seoul Tower. You'll never find yourself short of things to do.6. Essaouira, MoroccoTravelers who prefer the slow pace of a coastal town over a bustling and dense city will be entranced by Essaouira. Known as a port and resort center, Africa's windy city is as popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing as it is for pure relaxation. Walk along its beaches and through the vibrant medina, browse the boutiques, check out the catch of the day at the fish port, and more. And if you're looking for a little more hustle, Marrakech is only a bus ride away.
7. Zadar, Croatia Consider taking a holiday along Croatia's Dalmatian coast where you're more likely to find less crowds than at Dubrovnik and Split. The seaside city is rich with culture, history, and romance; equally known for its Roman and Venetian ruins and stunning sunsets. Once you get your fill of landmarks, churches, and cathedrals, head east of Old Town over to Kolovare Beach for bars and restaurants or offshore at Kornati National Park for diving and snorkeling. You can't leave Zadar without marveling at the musical Sea Organ, either.8. Upolu, SamoaThis paradisal island in Samoa is home to everything you want: lush rainforest, lagoons, dramatic waterfalls, idyllic beaches, the international airport, and much, much more. Dive into the Instagram-famous To Sua Ocean Trench, surf and fish along the coast year-round, or indulge at restaurants and bars in Samoa's capital city, Apia, before heading back to Upolu's sleepier parts.
9. Tbilisi, Georgia Georgia's capital is far from ordinary. Visitors are able to witness the modernization of Tbilisi since its time under Persian and Russian rule, as well as older reminders scattered throughout its diverse architecture. Not too far from the plazas, five-star hotels, bars and clubs, and museums remain small shops and quaint living. At Old Town, you'll find ancient cobblestoned roads, and winding lanes, while the rest of the city is gradually coming into its own, neither distinctly Western or Eastern. Travelers will find themselves captivated by this eclectic and multi-ethnic and multicultural destination that's truly unlike any other.10. Mallorca, Spain The Mediterranean's shining gem is loved by many for good reason. The island's breathtaking coasts, aqua-blue waters, and postcard coves are just a few appeals. Mallorca (Majorca) did inspire Chopin and other musicians, artists, and writers, after all. Maybe it'll be the picturesque villages, the cuisine, the architecture, the mountainous landscape, the beaches, or the nightlife that seduces you. Whatever it is, prepare to extend your stay.
Make the Most of Summer With This Patio Furniture - All From Amazon!
Summer means we're spending every free minute outside. In order to take advantage of the swimming season and the long nights, we need some furniture, because nobody wants grass stains all over their white Summer dress. We searched Amazon for all the patio essentials you need, whether you're furnishing an entire backyard or a small balcony. Just keep reading to shop our picks!
40 Things You've Been Doing Wrong All Your Life
You were probably happily chugging along in your daily routine until you came across this slideshow. You'll soon realize after reading through that there are many things you've been doing wrong without knowing. Get ready to have your world turned upside down.
16 Essentials For a Long Car Ride
Going on road trips is one of the best parts of Summer. An abundance of travelers on the road could mean a longer car ride, so if you're going to embark on a lengthy road trip, then remember to bring these essential items with you.
9 Amazing Uses For Lavender Essential Oil
If you've never used lavender essential oil before, it's about to become your new best friend. Not only does it smell wonderful, but it also contains calming and medicinal properties that can be used for a number of different purposes. Apply the versatile product as a topical ointment, melt away stress with aromatherapy, and so much more. See all the ways it can benefit you ahead.
15 Summer Finds You Need to Pick Up at Costco ASAP
It's always a good time to shop at Costco, but Summer is a particularly glorious time for the budget-friendly grocery store. Summer is the best time to gather all your friends and family for cookouts and pool parties, and buying in bulk (while finding a few little-known gems) is the way to go. Costco is stocked with tons of BBQ essentials, summertime fruits, and seasonal items you'll want to add to your cart the next time you make a trip to the store . . . just try not to get distracted by all the free samples in the process. PSA: cotton candy grapes are a must!
You Need to Try These Mouthwatering Recipes From Joanna Gaines’s Cookbook, Magnolia Table
Anyone who's ever watched HGTV's Fixer Upper will immediately recognize Joanna Gaines's style in her new cookbook, Magnolia Table. It looks like the homes she designed on the show: clean lines, a lot of white space, bright pages and photography, and a general black-and-white aesthetic.
And it's perfect timing for this book too! Fans who were sad to hear there won't be new episodes on HGTV anytime soon, since the finale aired in April, can bring a dose of the Gaines family into their kitchens.
Magnolia Table is filled with family stories and memories surrounding meals; individual favorites (for Chip, it's anything breakfast); diverse recipes that celebrate Joanna's diverse background: Texan (queso dip, fried chicken, Gaines chili . . .), Korean (her mom's bulgogi - find the recipe below), and Lebanese (her grandfather's recipe for Syrian doughnuts and fatayer); and some recipes that are used in their restaurant by the same name in Waco, TX, like her specialty biscuits and chocolate chip cookies (see below for the original recipe).
In the introduction, Joanna shares her own food journey, from the first meal she made for Chip in their first home (a spaghetti-and-meatballs dish with bread and butter that didn't go so well) to how she began to explore recipes from his family, like the Gaines's chili, and sharing recipes from her family with him, like the "Stevens family breakfast tradition: toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwiches dipped in black coffee" . . . which sounds delicious. Everything she describes sounds delicious. When she's writing about food and recipes, it's like she's staging them for readers in a way, just like she staged homes at the end of each episode of Fixer Upper for the full effect.
Fast-forward to when Chip and Joanna had four children under four who they had to feed and she turned to casseroles, slow-cookers, and "big pots of hearty soup that could simmer for a while." These types of meals are still her go-tos when she's having a busy week.
As her kids grew, they began to voice what they liked, and so meals became more elaborate. The kitchen counter and dining table are a focal point of their home. Joanna tries to tailor meals every week based both on the family's schedule and what's growing in their garden.
Even after Fixer Upper exploded, their family gained international fame, and their businesses continued to expand, she still prioritized time to cook meals from scratch in the evenings. In fact, that's how she de-stresses. "I stick my hand in a bowl of flour to begin to make pie crust, or peel some potatoes, and all of a sudden my thoughts slow down. I begin to unwind," she writes.
Cooking isn't a chore to her, and she suggests that a change in perspective can make it something we all look forward to.
She divides her cookbook into several simple and useful sections. She begins with what she usually has in her pantry and the essential tools for cooking, from measuring utensils to biscuit cutters, spatulas to a large cast-iron skillet. Then she has her recipes divided by meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and starters, and dessert, along with two special sections dedicated to soups and salads and side dishes.
"I've learned to approach planning dinner the same way I plan interiors," she writes. She always thinks about layers and textures. First, she'll choose a main dish, and then the sides that would complement it. And always, always dessert, like her favorite lemon pie recipe!
Try out Joanna's original recipes from Magnolia Table ahead.
Mom's Bulgogi With Cucumber Kimchi Salad
"My mom grew up in Seoul, South Korea, with a mom who was an amazing cook. I can personally vouch for this because in the 1980s my grandmother and uncle moved in with us in our home in Wichita, Kansas, where I grew up. What I remember most about that time is my grandmother cooking amazing food nonstop. When my grandmother passed away I know my mom regretted never having really learned from her how to cook proper Korean dishes. She ended up adopting a much more American style of cooking and by the time my sisters and I were on the scene, she had long since perfected a few dishes for my steak-and-potato-loving dad. But around that same time she had a lot of Korean friends living nearby, and she learned enough from them that by the time my kids were born, she was often preparing traditional Korean dishes for them, like seaweed soup.
It's funny to me that they're growing up eating much more authentic Korean food than I ever did. Mom's bulgogi, though, is more of an American-Korean hybrid, much sweeter than traditional bulgogi, and she serves it on a bed of white rice. Mom has us over once a month and this is what she always makes. It's my kids' very favorite food in the world, so I knew I had to include it in this book. Getting the recipe on paper was a bit of a challenge. My mom had no idea what the measurements were or how to describe what she does, because, as she said, she just does it. (Writing this book made me realize just how alike we are in this way.) But eventually, we figured it out, and I'm so glad we did because now I've captured the blueprint to what will always be a beloved meal for my kids.
We've never had Mom's bulgogi with anything other than her cucumber kimchi salad, which has a clean, fresh flavor that perfectly complements the sweet barbecued beef."
Prep: 20 minutes, plus 4 to 5 hours marinating
Cook: 10 to 20 minutes
Cool: none
Servings: Makes 6 to 8 servings
Bulgogi Ingredients
3 cups packed light brown sugar
1½ cups soy sauce
5 tablespoons sparkling dessert wine, such as Banfi Rosa Regale, or sparkling grape juice
3 tablespoons sesame oil
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), chopped, plus 1/4 cup sliced for serving
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 to 5 pounds beef tenderloin, rib-eye, top sirloin, or sirloin steak, thinly sliced (see Note)
Cucumber Kimchi Salad Ingredients
2 English cucumbers, peeled if desired, cut into 1/2-inch dice
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), thinly sliced on the diagonal
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 to 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes; see Tip)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
For Serving
Steamed white rice
1 to 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion (light and dark green parts) as needed, for garnish
3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted, for garnish
- Marinate the bulgogi: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, wine, sesame oil, green onions, garlic, and pepper until well combined. Add the beef and coat it completely in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 5 hours.
- To make the cucumber kimchi salad: In a medium bowl, combine the cucumbers, green onions, garlic, gochugaru, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and salt to taste and stir gently. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare a hot grill. If the pieces of beef are so small that they may fall through the grates, use a grilling skillet or place a sheet of foil on the grill.
- Grill the beef on both sides until medium-well, 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Don't crowd the skillet or foil, so do this in batches if necessary. As you finish each batch, transfer it to a serving platter and continue with the remaining beef.
- Serve the bulgogi on top of steamed rice. Garnish with green onion and toasted sesame seeds and spoon the cucumber kimchi salad alongside.
- Store the leftover bulgogi and cucumber kimchi salad in separate covered containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
NOTE: My mom usually has the butcher slice the beef for this dish when she buys it. If you live near a Korean market, they often sell packages of sliced rib-eye or top sirloin; sometimes they're even marked specifically for bulgogi. If you buy big pieces to cut yourself, freeze the meat for about 30 minutes before cutting so that it's easier to slice thinly and cut against the grain.
TIP: Gochugaru, or Korean red pepper, is commonly used in kimchi. It adds precisely the right amount of heat and unique flavor to the cucumber salad. Authentic Korean brands are readily available at Asian grocery stores or online, and the McCormick spice company packages it as well.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
"My dad has an intense sweet tooth, just like me. One afternoon when I was around ten years old, Dad got a hankering and he enlisted me to help him make Toll House chocolate chip cookies. That was the first time he and I had ever baked together. Since then, whenever I make chocolate chip cookies, including the ones from this recipe, I think of him and that special afternoon we spent together in the kitchen. I developed this recipe over the years, after experimenting with a few classics and having them come out flat every time. I wanted something that was chunky, beautiful, and also delicious. In the end, one big change I made was to cut back on the butter. I do truly believe that butter makes everything better and no one is more surprised than I am about how amazing these taste even though they're made with less of the good stuff than most traditional chocolate chip cookies."
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: Under 30 minutes
Cool: 1 hour
Servings: Makes about 40 cookies
Ingredients
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 heaping teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (see Tip)
- Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a large bowl with a handheld electric mixer), beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs and beat until blended. Add the vanilla and beat until blended.
- Turn the mixer off and add the flour mixture to the bowl. Mix on medium just until the flour is mixed in, then turn the mixer to high speed for a few seconds to pull the dough together; it will be chunky.
- Add the chocolate chips and beat on high for about 5 seconds to thoroughly and quickly mix in the chips.
- Drop by large spoonfuls on the lined baking sheet; don't flatten them. Bake until lightly browned on top, 10 to 11 minutes. Cool on the pan on a rack for 1 minute, then transfer the cookies to the rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Store the cookies in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to three days.
TIP: Depending on what you're in the mood for, you can add ½ cup more or less chocolate than what is called for.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. All images (c) Amy Neunsinger.
What I Learned About Swedish Death Cleaning After Experiencing My Own Loss
As I stood atop a makeshift ladder, an old door atop two sawhorses, with a mask over my face, pulling down pieces of wood that were covered in dust that may have been there from the 1920s Dust Bowl, I found myself resenting my grandparents and their parents for holding onto all this junk. I then promptly felt guilt and shame for thinking such a thing while also knowing the resentment was, and is, in many ways misplaced grief. Indeed the emotions are as layered as the dust that was raining down on my head from the eaves of the garage of my grandparents' house in southwest Kansas.
Along with my mother and aunt, we are döstädning - death cleaning, in Swedish.
It's the latest idea and trend in organization, coming from Margareta Magnusson's The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Make Your Loved Ones' Lives Easier and Your Own Life More Pleasant. The principle is that people who are aging should begin to clean their homes and rid them of unwanted items in the hopes that when they pass away, their families will be spared the task. It follows neatly in many ways after the organizing trend started a few years ago with Marie Kondo's book The Life-Changing Art of Tidying Up.
And it's an activity I'd never thought about doing, much less considered giving it a name, until my father passed away unexpectedly not so long ago.
At the time that he died, I wanted to hold onto every single scrap of anything about him - if I could've bottled the air he'd breathed, I would have done it. Every letter or note or even text message, I was sure I needed to hang onto forever and always. As if holding on tight enough would mean he wasn't gone from my life. I couldn't fathom getting rid of anything of his. And he may have had the same idea. His father also died relatively young and our house has boxes of ephemera from a generation past; my dad had never been able to go through and get rid of the condolence cards sent after his own father died. Both of us had fathers who died unexpectedly when we were in our early 30s. With my mother still alive, there was no reason to cull my dad's things, and with the shock of it, we just didn't really do anything.
Then her father, my grandfather, died, and his house was left empty and needed to be cleaned out. That more pressing need has seemed to spur on my mom to look again at the collections of things her husband, my father, left behind. So we mobilized and are currently tackling the unenviable task of "death cleaning" in two places at once. And what seemed impossible slowly became possible - and even helpful. Here are some things I have learned, and am still trying to learn, about the process.
It's ridiculously hard emotionally.
"Many adult children do not want to talk about death with their parents." This. Most definitely this. I highlighted this quote in Magnusson's book, and it's so achingly true. It's not something your brain wants to process, so it's much easier to pretend it won't ever happen.
I don't want to envision going through my mother's stuff, and facing down the one thing that we'll all come to - death - is remarkably difficult. But if you bring it up when you can or think about it for yourself and your own belongings, you get a chance to think about what's actually important and where you'd like treasured heirlooms to go. "Send that rug to Aunt Dottie, she's always loved it," and "It's OK to get rid of that lamp," etc.
I'm working to cherish the memory of loved ones without clinging tight to all of the stuff left behind.
I didn't and don't want to go through any of this stuff, literally and figuratively. It's unfathomable still that my dad and grandpa won't be coming back into the house, and surely they'd be asking where their shoes, hats, and books were if they did.
But wishful thinking does nothing, and I'm working to cherish the memory of loved ones without clinging tight to all of the stuff left behind. And it's also OK to hang onto some special things as memory touch points.
I also had a share of irritation with the sheer volume of stuff and decisions to make, and then felt/feel guilt about that irritation. I know that the burden left behind wasn't an intentional one, but it's OK to feel tired and stressed with it all. Be prepared to be overwhelmed and uncertain.
Having gone through and done our best to organize the two-car garage, filled with old wood scraps, tools, buckets, and odds and ends from the past hundred years, my mother, aunt, and I were pretty much immobilized in physical and mental exhaustion, and it wasn't long after sunset that we packed it in for bed. And that was just for the garage, where nothing had much sentimental value to it.
Many items are likely to spark memories and laughs and tears, some all at the same time.
And what I may have seen as ready for the thrift store or dumpster, others may not and vice versa. A tattered shirt or blanket may bring back all kinds of memories for someone else, and prying it from their hands because you think it's trash isn't going to help anyone.
The weight of making decisions on item after item will wear you out. That's a large part of why Magnusson advocates for doing such cleaning not only before you pass (if you can), but to do it a room at a time, and slowly.
Stories. Ask for and find out stories.
The ideal way to go through the stuff and things of someone's life is to do it with them or with those who know the stories. Before my grandmother passed away, she made notes on many of the handmade quilts that she had in her house, and those notes and stories make the quilts so much more meaningful.
But then there's things like the 18-inch-braid of brown hair in a trunk in my grandparents' basement. Whose was it? Why it was saved? Questions that no one has any answers for. We put it back in the trunk, shut the lid, and left that conundrum for another day.
Which brings me to the next thing.
Be ready to let go.
Think of what's in your own attic, basement, garage, storage unit, file cabinets, and drawers. The things you've curated to make your life comfortable. The things you've saved - appliance instructions, old screws and nails, bank statements, solitary socks - the "stuff" that may not "spark joy" as Kondo puts it, but the stuff that you think will come in handy one day. Or your childhood collections, in my case of postcards and dolls.
All that you hold dear or find valuable in terms of the stuff of your life, at one point and inevitably, it will be meaningless. And that's OK. The memories are still there, and it's not a purge of them from your life. It's a way to move forward, it's giving yourself space to breathe, because as much as you don't want to, the forward motion has to happen.
Give things a place of honor and joy as best you can.
It's hard to know what to do with things that aren't sentimental but that are still in good shape and don't deserve to be flung to the dump. Maybe no one you know needs another bed frame or dresser, not stylish enough to be vintage, but just old-fashioned. Towels and sheets are easy enough to donate. But what do you do with things like yearbooks? Half-finished sewing projects?
I don't collect baseball cards, stamps, or Boy Scout stuff, but I flirted briefly with the idea that I should start collecting all those things my dad had. Holding onto those collections wouldn't do a thing to bring him back, though, and there are people in the world who surely would find more value in them than I could.
Schools and universities may be on the lookout for old yearbooks - we found an old friend of my dad's who was overjoyed to have some of his old Boy Scout stuff, a distant relative was stoked on the idea of getting some of the stamp collection, and my dream is that someone at the local thrift store will find a way to put together the quilt blocks into a cozy, warm comforter.
It's time-consuming to do more than just chuck things in the dump, but it feels right to be able to see things that brought joy and value into my dad's and my granddad's lives find new homes where they'll be appreciated.
A Dietitian Says This Is How Many Carbs You Should Be Eating Each Day to Lose Weight
Carbs are known to have a bad reputation, but the truth is they're an important and necessary component of your daily diet. On top of giving you energy, they're needed to boost your metabolism and - guess what? - help you lose weight. But remember: not all carbs are created equally. Complex carbs and simple carbs differ vastly in their nutritional value, which we'll dive into more later.
To help you determine the right amount of carbs for your own weight-loss success, we've looked to Lori Zanini, RD, CDE, for her expertise.
How Many Carbs the Average Person Should Eat
Lori shared that according to the Institute of Medicine, 45 to 65 percent of the average person's daily caloric intake should be made up of carbohydrates. It also depends on your specific needs and goals, but this is the basic recommendation.
How Many Carbs You Should Be Consuming For Weight Loss
As a dietitian who specializes in diabetes, Lori recommends staying within the lower end of that 45- to 65-percent range. However, it's important not to dip below 130 grams of carbs per day.
"The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of carbs is 130 grams per day, as this is what has been studied and determined to adequately fuel our central nervous system, red blood cells, and brain," Lori told POPSUGAR.
The Difference Between Good and Bad Carbs
What you want to look for are unrefined (or complex) carbs that are high in fiber, such as root vegetables, quinoa, beans, berries, nuts, and seeds. "[Carbs] are a vital part to a healthy, active lifestyle," Lori said. Examples of "bad" (or simple) carbs to limit include sugar (raw and brown), white rice, and corn syrup. These foods spike your blood sugar and often leave you hungry and craving more.
And just because carbs are "good" doesn't mean they won't contribute to weight gain if you overeat them. Even the healthiest of carbs, like fruits and grains, can add up. "It's helpful to understand that carbs digest more quickly than protein and fat, so while it is a great source of energy, it may not always be as filling," Lori said. She advises against eating carb-only or protein-only meals. Instead, always opt for balanced meals that contain all three macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat). "[This] will provide the most benefits, whether weight loss or maintenance is your goal."
I'm a Fitness Model, and This Is Exactly What I Eat in a Day
As a fitness model, I make my money off of my body, and it's important that I fuel myself to not only look my best, but to also perform at my best. I enjoy all types of food and try not to limit myself when it comes to eating. I try to keep it simple and just focus on eating whole, minimally processed foods, although I do indulge in things like cookie dough and decadent desserts. I don't obsess over counting calories, but I need around 1,800 calories a day for my body type and the high-intensity training I do. Keep reading to see what keeps me going throughout a day of shoots, training clients, and a full-time job.
Breakfast #1: I'm a creature of habit and opt in for a bowl of steel-cut oats. I'll make a big pot on Sunday and it tends to last until Thursday. I wake up around 4:45 a.m. and this helps make my morning routine smooth. I usually add a little bit of brown sugar and dried cranberries.
Breakfast #2: After training my clients and working out myself, I'm starving. If I know I'm going to be short on time, I'll pack a scoop of the Thorne vanilla protein powder into a mixer and add some almond milk to it at the office. On the rare occasion that I meal prep on the weekend, I'll pack two egg muffins to eat at work.
Snack: If I don't eat every two hours or so, I get extremely hangry - and it's not a good look. I love dried cranberries and dried montmorency cherries and will mix these with some almonds and cashews.
Lunch: As I mentioned before, I'm a creature of habit, and keeping it simple works best for me. If I'm in a rush, I'll just pack up leftovers from the night before. I've been really into making hearty salads lately. One of my favorites right now is baby kale, wild rice, diced apples, a hard-boiled egg, half an avocado, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Snack #2: I typically have something on the lighter side to hold me over until dinner. Apples with peanut butter is quick and easy. I also love Cuties (mandarin oranges) and will have two. If I want something a little heavier - especially before a workout - I'll have a few sweet potato rounds with some sea salt.
Dinner: This is probably the most exciting meal I make (check out my Instagram Stories for some major noms). Sometimes I'm too exhausted and just make salmon, coconut rice, and some veggies - I've mastered the recipe and it takes me 30 minutes to make. If I have time to experiment, I'll play around with making things like salmon cakes, healthy pizzas, and random recipes I find on Pinterest.
Is It Better to Run on a Treadmill or Outside? Experts Weigh In
Being in the fitness industry and participating in over a dozen running races, I've had my fair share of treadmill and outdoor running workouts through the years. I often have clients ask if one is more beneficial, and I truly believe that combining indoor and outdoor workouts is the best of both worlds. I've asked a few other experts to give me their take on the treadmill/outdoor running debate.
Times When a Treadmill Is the Best Choice
When I was training for a marathon in 2010, I would often have to go on long runs very late at night. Although I didn't mind running in the dark, I knew it wasn't the safest thing to do and I relied on my treadmill to keep my training in check. Although I preferred to run long distances outside, it was nice to have the option to work out anytime of day (and in any weather) by using my treadmill.
I also found treadmills to be great for pacing myself, setting the treadmill to a 6.0 and leaving it there for a prolonged period of time. When I run outdoors, I sometimes find myself speeding up or slowing down without being aware it's even happening. When you want to finish a workout in a certain amount of time or you're training for a specific type of event, treadmills can be incredibly helpful for keeping you on track.
Shelly Mckenna Lake, USAT Level 2 Endurance Triathlon Coach and owner FV3 Racing, shares, "In some cases, the weather is impossible or not smart, so indoor treadmill running is the only real option. Running inside is a very controlled environment, which allows for some specific things you can't do outside, such as focused intervals, temperature control (add fans if it is hot inside!), and the ability to drink lots of fluids without carrying them. Running inside is also safer in the dark or if you live only near busy roads."
Cori Satti, certified personal trainer, agrees "a treadmill offers you climate control, steady pace, and a belt can make the workout easier." There's also a safety boost when you're on a treadmill knowing you can stop anytime and rest, grab more water, and even use the bathroom!
Outdoor Exercise Gives You an Energy Boost
Alexandria Price, Owner of Fit4mom Waco, knows that sometimes you just need to get outdoors! "Time outdoors gives a natural boost to our immune system and provides crucial vitamin D. Being out in the sunshine can boost your mood which is especially important in colder months when seasonal affective disorder affects many and postpartum mood disorders can be especially hard on mothers. Motherhood can be very isolating and you can feel stuck in a rut in the house with a baby. Getting outside to exercise with friends can be exactly what mama needs."
Personal trainer Kylie Schofield adds, "Pro to running outside is a change in scenery. It can get very boring running on a treadmill and seeing the same thing in front of you the entire time."
Studies have also shown that exercising outdoors may expend more energy than the same distance covered for an indoor workout. This is mostly likely due in part to wind resistance and varying inclines that are difficult to mimic when you're inside. Outdoor exercise has also been shown to lower stress levels, and light tends to elevate people's moods. When your energy level is low and you're struggling to get that workout in, hitting an outdoor trail might be just what you need.
Both Can Give You a Kick-Butt Workout
As a trainer, I have found running is one of the most effective ways to lose weight, decrease body fat, and improve overall conditioning. Hitting a trail, track, or pavement gives you the opportunity to get some sunshine, get your heart rate up, and improve your heart health.
Although it's hard to mimic outdoor hills exactly, adding an incline to your treadmill workout gives you the ability to get a great interval workout. Whether you're hopping on for a quick 10-minute run or a long-distance 10-miler, put your headphones on and get your legs pumping!
Whether you have the perfect running loop in your neighborhood or you prefer running alongside other people at the gym, both give you the opportunity to achieve your fitness goals and stay in great physical shape all year round. Satti concludes, "Either method is great because you are moving your body!"
Quick, Delicious, and Perfectly Portioned Breakfast Meal-Prep Ideas
If you tend to grab a scone or a bagel with your morning coffee run, it might be the reason you're feeling sluggish by mid-morning. Meal prepping for the week on Sunday is a must because it not only saves you precious morning minutes, but also ensures you have a delicious, easy, fast, and perfectly portioned meal to start your day. From savory to sweet, high-protein to low-carb, here are some meal-prep breakfast recipes you can try.
12 Incredible Nike Products You Didn't Know You Could Find on Amazon
Treating yourself to a few new workout items may be all the motivation you need to book that next sweat session. If you're a fan of Nike, you know these popular performance items don't always come cheap. We went on a mission to find some of the brand's best deals on Amazon and rounded up a list of everything you could ever ask for. From comfortable windbreakers to running sneakers, prepare to want these hot picks!
Satiate Your Sweet Tooth With These Under-150-Calorie Late-Night Treats
Sure, you'd love some one-on-one time with a bowl of ice cream and a spoon, but that late-night treat can pack on over 250 calories. Whether you're craving a sweet, creamy dessert, a homemade cookie, or chocolate-anything, here are healthier ways to indulge so you can enjoy your treat without a dollop of guilt.
I Drank Beachbody's Shakeology Every Morning For 1 Week, and Here's What Happened
I've been a protein powder fiend for as long as I can remember. I love to have a cold, creamy smoothie in the mornings when I'm done with my weightlifting session, and I've tried just about every brand that exists. But there's one I kept hearing about over and over again, and I'd never actually tried it before: Shakeology.
You may have heard of Shakeology at some point because it's made by Beachbody, the ever-reliable platform that gave us P90X, 80-Day Obsession, and Insanity. This all-encompassing protein powder claims to help you lose weight, reduce cravings, give you healthy energy, and support digestion. Those are some pretty big claims, so I drank it every single day for a week to see what would happen.
It Tasted Absolutely Amazing
I don't say this lightly, but Shakeology is by far the best-tasting protein powder I've ever had. I had the chocolate, vanilla, and cafe latte flavors (all vegan since I'm plant-based), and my favorite was the chocolate. The cafe latte was a close second, but the chocolate flavor tasted positively like a creamy milkshake.
My smoothie was pretty simple: Shakeology, almond milk, one spoonful of nut butter, a handful of spinach (which is why it's green in the picture), and ice. I wanted to savor every single sip of it!
It Had a Lot More Nutrients Than I Realized
Not all protein powders are created equally. I didn't realize until I glanced at the label that Shakeology actually has a ton of good sh*t in it, in addition to the protein blend, which is made up of chia seeds, pea protein, sacha inchi, quinoa, rice, and oats. There's also a proprietary superfruit antioxidant blend, a supergreen phytonutrient blend, an adaptogen blend, and a pre- and probiotic digestive enzyme blend. Like I said, good sh*t. By the third day, I didn't even feel the need to add in that handful of spinach anymore.
I Had a Ton of Energy
Shakeology promises to give you a boost of energy so you can get through your day and crush your workouts. I thought it was all just part of the marketing ploy, but I genuinely noticed a difference after I drank my shake in the morning. My mood was slightly elevated, I felt like I recovered well from my workouts, and I didn't get any kind of afternoon crash later in the day.
I Was Full All the Way Until Lunch
I tend to struggle with late-morning hunger, even on the days when I eat a big breakfast. But Shakeology was so filling that I didn't even think about eating until lunchtime hit. This prevented me from snacking mindlessly or grabbing packaged food because I was hungry and in a pinch.
I Didn't Notice Any Change in My Trips to the Bathroom
There are six grams of fiber in each serving of Shakeology, which makes up 24 percent of your recommended daily intake. Although this is a good serving of fiber, it didn't make much of a difference. I didn't poop any more or any less than I normally do, but that doesn't necessarily mean it won't have a positive effect on someone else.
After my week-long love affair with Shakeology, I didn't want it to end. I'm still drinking the smoothie whenever I can, although maybe not every single day, and perhaps I'll see even more positive changes after a couple more weeks.
9 Ways to Feel Happier and Fight Stress
Whether it's the Winter blues or you're just in a slump, we all go through emotional ups and downs. It's OK! We don't always feel joyful all the time. But when you're ready to kick that sadness to the curb and pick yourself back up, these quick, easy, and free techniques will help put a smile on your face. Now let's get happy!
35 Tattoos That Show a Serious Commitment to Fitness
If baring skin at the gym puts you in the mood to get inked, you might want to consider one of these fitness-inspired tats.
Low Weights, High Reps: Feel the Burn With These Arm Exercises
We all want those arms that don't flap in the wind when we're waving hello, right? These five exercises with light weights make it look easy, but the small isometric moves ensure you feel the burn. Grab your two- or three-pound dumbbells and get going, but don't worry if you don't have weights - you can even do them without for some excellent toning.
26 Healthy Salads That Don't Use Leafy Greens
When you're in the mood for a heartier, stay-full-till-dinner salad, make one of these filling salads that are made with chunky veggies, whole grains, and beans. No kale, romaine, or spinach here!
Feeling a Little Sluggish? Here's What You Should Do
If we could afford IV drip therapy on a regular basis, having enough energy would never be an issue. But since that's not a realistic option for most of us, all-natural DIY alternatives will just have to do. Whether you always run into an afternoon slump or can't seem to shake off that sluggish feeling, there are simple and effective ways you can increase your energy level no matter what time of day. Try incorporating these nine tips ahead to get back on top of your game.
The Countdown Is On: What We Know About the 2020 Summer Olympics
As soon as the closing ceremony ended for the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, all I could think about was how I was going to get through four years until the next one happens in Tokyo in 2020. The Winter Olympics certainly help my Olympics fix and serve as a reminder that there are only two more years left until I'm propped up in front of my TV, cheering on gymnasts, track-and-field runners, and those synchronized swimmers.
Even though we still have some time to go until the next Summer Games, here's a roundup of what we know so far, because Summer 2020 can't come soon enough!
Where Are the 2020 Summer Olympics?
The capital city of Japan, Tokyo, will be hosting the Summer Games that begin on July 24, 2020, and end on Aug. 9, 2020.
Has Tokyo Ever Hosted the Summer Olympics Before?
Tokyo hosted the Summer Olympics in 1964, marking the first games ever to be staged in Asia. In 2020, the country will host its fourth Olympics, if we include the two Winter ones it hosted in 1972 and 1998.
What Sports Will Be Part of the Summer Olympics?
Summer sports include archery, boxing, diving, fencing, golf, gymnastics, handball, diving, rowing, rugby, weightlifting, beach volleyball, judo, table tennis, water polo, and more.
Will There Be Any New Sports at Tokyo 2020?
Five new sports will join the Summer Olympics 2020 list. Baseball, climbing, karate, skateboarding, and surfing will join the other 39 Olympic sports.
Can I Already Get Tickets?
If you're looking to book a trip to Tokyo in 2020 for the Olympics, you might want to start saving now for tickets to the Games. The average ticket prices for the events will cost ¥7,000 ($66), according to The Nikkei, a Japanese newspaper, while entry to the opening ceremony will cost anywhere between ¥25,000 ($234) and ¥150,000 ($1,405).
How Can I Watch the Games?
For those located in the United States, NBC will be airing the Olympics from start to end.
To learn more, visit TeamUSA.org. For now, you can watch the Winter Games beginning on Feb 8.
Kick Carbs to the Curb With These Snacks
Going low carb can help many people shed a few pounds if done right. Try it yourself with these low-carb snacks; easy to make, many of these are also high in good-for-you nutrients like antioxidants, protein, and fiber.
Why You Shouldn't Try to Figure Out Your Kid's Sexuality Before They Do
In terms of gender and sexuality, we live in a new, more accepting world, and in almost every regard, that's a great thing. My kids met my gay best friend and his husband as infants and have never once questioned whether their love for one another or their right to spend their lives together as two men was any different than their dad's and mine as a man and woman. Why would it be? We have always taught them that "love is love," and whoever you're programmed to love is something you're born with. It sounds simple, but we all know the issue can be pretty complicated - especially if you think your own child might be gay.
Follow their lead on issues of sexuality instead of directing them in any particular way. And most importantly, keep reinforcing that you will love and support them no matter what.
As a parent, it's completely normal to worry about the hardships and stresses that your own child might face if they are gay. Wanting to protect and shield our kids from discrimination and the uglier sides of the human experience is just part of parenting. Combine that worry - really about making our children's futures as smooth and happy as possible - with today's openness in terms of talking about sexuality, and it makes sense that you might be tempted to try to figure out whether your kid is gay . . . even before they know themselves.
There might be small hints that you've picked up on that leave you wondering if the behavior is a glimpse of more to come or just a kid being a kid (the answer: it could be either or both). But jumping to conclusions, even if you have the best intention in doing so, can have the effect of being confusing, especially if your child is too young to understand sexuality in general. And no matter how young they are, their sexuality is first and foremost their business. It's also their business to talk to you about it whenever they're ready, not the other way around.
Studies have shown that kids as young as 8 begin to have physical feelings for other people, and most kids start to figure out who they're attracted to between the ages of 9 and 12. Before that age, it's entirely normal for children to play around with gender roles or display "nontraditional" sexual behaviors. Reading too much into those behaviors will most likely upset your child and create unnecessary worry. As your child gets older, those behaviors might mean more, but forcing them to figure out how they identify before they're old enough to process their feelings can do more harm than good. Let them have fun and be who they are!
Instead of trying to figure out your child's sexual orientation before they do, it's better to simply create a generally supportive and open environment in your home. Casually vocalize your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Let your child know that if they have questions about sex or love, you'll do your best to answer them or direct them to an appropriate resource. Follow their lead on issues of sexuality instead of directing them in any particular way. And most importantly, keep reinforcing that you will love and support them no matter what. Providing unconditional love is the best way to give your children the confidence to live their truest and best lives.
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.
25 Cheap Outdoor Activities to Keep Kids Busy ALL Summer
Keeping track of curious preschoolers can be a tough job, especially during the Summer months when school's out. So if you have a little one who needs to release some energy ASAP, look no further, because this list of outdoor activities will keep your kiddos busy for hours.
Whether you're just looking to kill an hour or two in the backyard with your kid or you're really trying to immerse yourself in nature, this list has something your kids can enjoy. And seriously? What's better than getting a little sunshine and fresh air? Absolutely nothing. Scroll through to see some of our favorite outdoor activities your preschooler will love.
What Your Sign Says About Your Parenting Style
Who we are as parents is a mixture of experiences. Our predetermined personality was forged throughout our lives, and our astrological signs help guide us when figuring out what kind of parent we are and who we hope to be. Some parents are no-nonsense, while others seem to thrive in experiences where children can be free. Some are extremely organized, while others just go with the flow. And since every sign has such strong personality traits, it's only natural that they also apply to parenting styles. Keep reading to see what parenting traits each sign has.
The 3 Toxic Moms You Need to Cut Out of Your Life
Since having my daughter almost six years ago, I've been lucky to have a lot of mom friends. Not only did about a dozen of my close friends from college have their first children within a year of me, but I've been introduced to a whole new crop of girl buddies through my daughter (who knew kids made such great wingmen?!). The truth is, I think we all need a lot of mommy friends, because each friendship provides a different kind of support.
There's the friend I always call when I'm having the worst day ever because I know she gets it, won't judge me, and will tell me a funny story about how awful her own kids are being to make me feel better. There's the mom whose friendship has become even more precious because our husbands and children love each other as much as we do, making impromptu pizza nights easy and awesome. And there's the friend who radiates so much positivity about her family that it inspires me to cherish my own more - even on days when I'm ready to sell them all to the highest bidder (or really any bidder at all).
Unfortunately, not all my mom friendships have been as magical. There have also been ones that I invested time and energy into that just never clicked, ones where I felt a weird sense of unhealthy competitiveness, and ones where I realized that a premotherhood friend's crazy antics weren't that entertaining anymore. And those friends? Well, it was time to say see ya' later (or not).
If you have a friend who falls into one of the categories below, it's time to, at the least, reevaluate your friendship and, more likely, cut your relationship off.
The Judger
This friend has something to say about everything you do, making subtle jabs or offering direct insults every time you see her. Her 1-year-old daughter's already speaking in complete sentences, but she's sure yours will just be fine, eventually, but if not, she has the number for a great speech therapist. She would never allow her kids to eat in the car, wear seasonally inappropriate clothing outside the house, or skip a day of school for a vacation, but "that's just her." While you know her perfect house, immaculately dressed children, and dreamy relationship with her spouse are probably half lies and half compensating for the deep sadness in her soul, you don't need that judge-y bullsh*t. Time to move on.
The Taker
She's always up for a playdate (at your house), for a girl's night out (she called your favorite sitter first), and for signing up your kids for a class together (you'll register and pay for hers, right? She'll get you back, if she remembers this time), and you're getting sick of feeling like you're parenting your kids and hers, too. Let's call this mom the "taker" because your friendship is all about what she can get out of you. Next time she calls to ask if her kid can come over for a four-hour play date while she gets a massage, just say "no."
The Flaker
Life is busy, kids' schedules are crazy, and sh*t happens. We get it. But when you literally put a question mark by every plan you make with her, knowing that the odds of it actually happening are slim to none, what's the point? Moms have so little time to invest in friendships, and if this flake can't ever follow through, it's time to move your energy to a mom friend who will.
My Son Is Nothing Like Me, and It Kills Me Sometimes
I realized pretty early on that my oldest child was nothing like me. There was the time we were at his friend's second birthday party and he nervously gripped my leg while the other kids ran straight to interact with the clown. In retrospect, I get it (clowns are creepy), but rather than empathize with my son about it, I tried to convince him to be social. When he didn't budge, a wave of anger washed over me because I was annoyed that he didn't want to join in.
There was also the time when he got to the final round of a modeling callback for a kids' clothing brand, and the audition ended with me yelling at him for "not even trying." We both ended up crying on that busy street in Manhattan, mainly because I couldn't believe I made my poor son go through that audition. I hated that he was crying because I made him feel bad, and, oh, because I yelled at him in a waiting room full of strangers. That was a low point for me. I looked at his tear-streaked red face through my equally tear-streaked red face (plus mascara) and vowed I would never do that to him again. But a part of me also thought, "How is this my child? Aren't these things supposed to be fun?"
It's taken me almost four years to really appreciate my son for who he is. Is it bad that it's taken me this long to figure that out?
You see, growing up, I was that person who was the first to try everything and had no fear about other people's judgments. I was the first person in my freshman class to raise their hand for the pep rally pie-eating contest. I tried out for every musical even though I had a horrible singing voice. Long story short, I can talk to a wall whether the wall likes it or not. My best friend still jokes to this day, "I've been trying to break down your Iron Curtain of self-esteem since the late '90s." I just assumed my kid would be the same way, but where did I get this narrative that, because I bore my son, he should be like me? And by that I mean ONLY the good stuff? I knew I had to change my own narrative unless I wanted to be the star role in his future therapy sessions.
So, I started looking at him differently. Rather than get frustrated when he wouldn't go down the "big kid" slide, I noticed how he stood at the bottom and cheered ecstatically for his friends who whipped down it. When I used to get frustrated that he would hang back from a birthday party dance circle, I now noticed how much he enjoyed observing and paying close attention to what the entertainer was saying.
I now have two kids, and my son is the big brother that little brothers dream of. He has so much kindness and empathy toward other kids and adults. I've learned he's full of so much self-assurance that he doesn't need to be the center of attention or the kid that's first to start the dance party. He doesn't want to be. That's not who he is, and he's more than happy to let his buddies take the lead. He has a quiet confidence that speaks loudly, and I genuinely find myself learning how to act in certain situations from him.
It's taken me almost four years to really appreciate my son for who he is. I realized my main job is to cultivate, guide, support, and love him just as he is and for who he wants to be. Is it bad that it's taken me this long to figure that out? Probably.
My younger son is basically my mini me. He's feral, loud, random, funny, and so annoying that it just circles back to being charming (See? Me.), but I am no more fulfilled with having someone who is much more "my child." Yes, it's easier to relate at times, but I also love learning from someone so different. Both of my sons teach me so much, and I have so much left to learn.
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.
These Stunning 2018 Birth Photos Are Going to Cause Your Jaw to Drop to the Floor
There are about seven babies born every minute in the United States, which means a hell of a lot of birth photographers ready to snap memorable and beautiful photos of mamas in labor at any given time. Although not every mother opts for a photographer to capture the intimate moments before and after her baby enters the world, there is still an endless number of gorgeous birth photos circulating on social media that deserve to be seen and shared.
In 2018, there has been no shortage of stunning birth photos that have taken our breath away, reminding us constantly how unique and beautiful each birth truly is. Ahead, take a peek at some of our favorites of the year.
vendredi 8 juin 2018
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Shares Her 5 Must-Have Beauty Products, So BRB, I'm Stocking Up
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is one of those women who just oozes beauty, both inside and out. Not only does she have glowing skin and an enviable pout, but she's also kind and down to earth. Luckily for fans like me, she loves sharing her skincare and makeup necessities. The model, designer, and mother recently launched her own site, Rose Inc., where she's featuring interviews with beauty insiders and sharing tips that she's learned throughout her career.
In a Rose Inc. interview with Katie Jane Hughes, a good friend of Rosie's and a talented makeup artist known for dewy looks and a skin-first mentality, the beauty-lover shared her five can't-live-without products in addition to some sound advice about makeup "rules." Rosie said, "In terms of beauty, rules need to be thrown out the window. My look might not work for you. Your look might not work for me. But let's all just appreciate each other's look."
"There's skill and there's talent and there's beauty in everything, and that's what we need to look at instead of tearing another person's image or look down. I really find that unattractive in somebody, even if they're the most physically beautiful person. Let's just try and celebrate everybody - or keep your mouth shut if you don't have anything nice to say!"
And with that, shop her five must-have items ahead. Spoiler alert: one of them is a Nars concealer you probably use, too.
50 Simple Tattoos We're Feeling This Season
Getting a tattoo is a major decision. Not only do you have to decide who will create the tat, but you have to choose ink that you'll (happily) live with for the rest of your life. Whew! That's why we're into easy, clean designs that are everything but complicated. Here are over 50 simple and stylish tats we can all get behind.
The 3 Skincare Products Chloë Moretz Swears By
SK-II
Chloë Grace Moretz has been an actress since she was 7 years old, so she spent most of her teenage years wearing heavy stage makeup - whether she liked it or not. "A lot of my ideals of feminine beauty came from everything I saw in magazines and things that I learned on set and photo shoots," she told POPSUGAR. "There was pressure to hide behind layers of makeup."
So Moretz kept slathering on more product in a frantic effort to get clear skin, hormonal teenage breakouts be damned. "It was brutal growing up in the public eye," she admitted. "I always thought that using every product you could was super helpful - I just put it all on my face, even toothpaste. Then I took a second and realized it wasn't working."
Moretz's skincare inspiration came from a somewhat unexpected place: her four older brothers, who all had basically nonexistent beauty routines. "I saw that they were fine waking up in the morning and walking out of the house, confident in who they are, without anything on," she recalled. "I was like, 'Why can't I do that?' Then I realized I could do that; it was just my mind telling me I couldn't."
SK-II
Perhaps working in the industry helped her come to terms with how it's impossible to resemble the stereotypical image of an airbrushed cover girl she spent her teenage years chasing. "I've done so many covers where I was photoshopped, and I looked nothing like myself," she said. "It was so strange at 15 years old to be on the cover of a massive women's mag and be like, 'That's a cool photo of whoever that girl is, but it's not me.'" When SK-II invited her to be one of the faces of its new, Photoshop-free Bare Skin campaign, Moretz jumped at the chance. "I hope that a 13-year-old girl on Instagram sees it and will know that I'm not retouched," she said. "She'll realize that you can go out with bare skin and be who you are and not hide behind these false ideals of what beauty is."
That said, Moretz admitted to being unsure about adding another product - the brand's beloved Facial Treatment Essence ($179) - into her "primal" skincare routine. "I literally just put the products in my hand, pat them into my face, and wipe it off, morning and night," she said. "It's the most natural instinct. You just need your hands and water." Though the actress "hadn't tried anything new in years," she found her skin responded well to the essence. "It's a pure product in the sense that it's similar to how honey and olive oil bring your skin to a level where it radiates on its own and locks in its own natural moisture," she said.
Getty / C Flanigan
"The more I stopped hiding behind the figment of what I thought people wanted to see as Chloë Moretz and started just being myself was when I started becoming OK with all the different comments."
Much like most people on Instagram, learning to love herself in this FaceTune-heavy world has been a work-in-progress. "The more I stopped hiding behind the figment of what I thought people wanted to see as Chloë Moretz and started just being myself was when I started becoming OK with all the different comments, be it negative or positive," she said. "When you become confident in who you are, you become confident with what you look like when you wake up in the morning. Then people's comments don't really affect you the way that they used to, because you're not falsifying who you are."
Articles
