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.
dimanche 14 octobre 2018
1 Jump Scare in The Haunting of Hill House Is So Terrifying, Even the Cast Is Scarred
If you're a horror movie fan, then chances are you've had a heated discussion about jump scares at some point. Whether you love them or hate them, they've become a staple of the genre. You know the drill: the swell of creepy music, the building tension, and then an explosive burst of sound and movement that makes your heart skip a beat and jolts people upright in their seats. For some, this can be seen as a manipulative tactic - if you have to rely on freaking out an audience with a loud noise, can that be considered a genuine scare? Or is it merely a cheap ploy used in lieu of taking the time to figure out how to actually leave someone with lasting terror?
Personally, I'm not the biggest fan of jump scares. I'm much more likely to find myself laying awake at night thinking about a creepy figure who silently appeared in the background of a scene (à la The Strangers) than the sudden, ear-piercing shriek of, say, a demonic nun. But when used sparingly, I believe a jump scare can be the perfect way to leave an audience gasping after a chilling, slow build. That's exactly why one scene in Mike Flanagan's new Netflix series, The Haunting of Hill House, made me scream at the top of my lungs (no shame) and caused my boyfriend to leap off the couch in alarm - a literal jump scare.
Warning: We're officially entering spoiler territory for The Haunting of Hill House! Proceed at your own risk.
The scene in question goes down towards the end of episode eight, "Witness Marks." The remaining Crain sisters Theo (Kate Siegel) and Shirley (Elizabeth Reaser) are driving up to Hill House in hopes of rescuing their missing brother, Luke (Oliver Jackson-Cohen), from the demons that reside there. Their drive isn't a pleasant one, though - two episodes prior, Shirley stumbles upon what looks like Theo putting the moves on her husband, Kevin, and the matter still isn't resolved. They fight a bit. It's tense. Things aren't going well. That is, until a terrifying ice breaker reveals herself: the ghost of their dead sister, Nell.
Nell (played by Victoria Pedretti as an adult and Violet McGraw as a child) spends much of the first half of the series plagued by visions of a truly horrifying ghost she dubs the "Bent Neck Lady." In adulthood, her experiences with the Bent Neck Lady seem more like night terrors - she wakes up covered in sweat, feeling completely paralyzed. But we eventually discover that the spirit is very real when Nell is lured back to Hill House and tragically killed by the ghost of her dead mother, Olivia. Nell is hanged, and it's revealed she's been the Bent Neck Lady all along.
(I'm still not over that twist and probably never will be. But anyway!)
Nell, in all her Bent Neck Lady glory (think: white eyes, mottled skin, a dirty dress, yellow teeth in desperate need of some Crest), shoots forward between the seats of her bickering sisters out of nowhere, screaming. Shirley immediately swerves to the side of the road and Theo flees from the car, shaken to her core. As it turns out, the interaction is exactly what the sisters needed to open up to each other and finally mend the burned bridge between them.
The emotional impact of Nell's nightmarish intrusion is a great example of how skillful Flanagan's series is at weaving together genuine horror with family drama, and his handle on scaring an audience in general. Though the jump scare still employs all the familiar tactics - a sudden burst of movement and crashing sound - Nell's appearance serves a purpose; she pops up to stop Theo and Shirley from fighting and bring them together so they can present a united front against the house.
The Haunting of Hill House moves slowly at times, but sticking with the show is worth it. Flanagan seldom resorts to cheap scares to jolt viewers, which is why Nell's sudden appearance comes as such a shock. In fact, the moment is so freaky that it scarred a few members of the cast.
"I watched [that episode] the other day and I was so, so scared. I screamed and I was still scared, so I screamed again," Oliver Jackson-Cohen, who plays Luke, told me with a laugh during a recent interview ahead of the show's premiere. "[Nell] broke me!"
And how does it feel to be one of the people filming something like that? Elizabeth Reaser, who plays eldest sister Shirley, admitted that although she still has yet to watch the show for herself, she can confirm being in the middle of a scene like that is just as frightening as it looks. "Yeah, it was really scary when we did that scene," she said. "Because if someone came up right now behind me, I would jump, you know?"
If you want to experience the scene for yourself, The Haunting of Hill House is now streaming on Netflix.
All the Kid-Friendly Halloween Movies You Can Stream Free With Your Amazon Prime Membership
An Amazon Prime membership is the best thing I invest in every year, simply for the free Prime shipping alone, but there's so much more you can do - that members often overlook - with your yearly membership, including video streaming. In the spooky spirit of Halloween, we took a peek at what's available on Amazon Prime Video for our kids to watch in prep for the holiday, and though the themed movies offered aren't beloved classics like Casper or Hocus Pocus, there are quite a few kid-friendly picks that you can stream for free to shake up family movie night.
Check out what's available to watch with your Prime membership ahead (and don't miss the kid-friendly Halloween movies you can stream on Netflix!).
Don't Stress Over Halloween Costumes For Your 1-Year-Old - Here Are 44 Cute Options
Depending on the month your baby was born, you might only get one or two Halloweens in which you're able to completely own the costume decision-making. Once they start watching TV shows and movies and really getting into their bedtime stories, it's only a matter of time before they'll have an opinion on their yearly costume. While you're still running the show (for now), take a peek at one of these adorable costumes fit for a 1-year-old.
And if your toddler is already into making their own choices for everything, first, godspeed, and second, check out this epic list of toddler costumes they'll love.
This Gut-Wrenching Photo Series Shows Exactly What It's Like to Parent When You're Homeless
In an effort to get a better understanding of what it's like to be homeless with children, Sara Easter, a photographer from Arlington, TX, decided to walk a day in the shoes of the Henderson family, who has lived in a shelter called Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County since July 2017. She spent the day with parents Jared and Dallas and their four children – Sadie, 8; Xoi, 5; Zander, 3; and Mila, 1 - and documented their every move. The final product was a photo series called "Sheltered," and it's beyond eye-opening.
Like most families who fall on hard times, the Hendersons were not planning for the unthinkable to happen. "The Hendersons ended up at the shelter after finding themselves homeless and with nowhere else to go," Sara told POPSUGAR. "Because they are a larger family, they did not have family or friends that could take them all in at once. They bounced around for a while before they found a shelter that had enough space open for all of them."
And although both Jared and Dallas admit it's not what they had in mind for their kids, they want to bring attention to homelessness in the US.
"I saw so many commonalities between the way this family interacted and my own family, as well as all the other families I've photographed."
"I met this particular family while volunteering at the shelter," said Sara. "We talked a few times before I ever photographed them. They felt strongly that it is important to increase awareness about this issue and were happy to share their experience to help do so."
As a mom of three boys, Sara explains that shooting the family going about their day really hit home with her.
"As a parent, it is much harder to distance yourself. I saw so many commonalities between the way this family interacted and my own family, as well as all the other families I've photographed. I witnessed these kids doing the same types of things all kids do: getting into trouble, irritating each other, helping each other out, being kind and reassuring to each other . . . For me that was the hardest part, I know what all of that feels like."
Sara hopes that her project will shed light on what it's really like to have your entire family live in one room and believes that showing a little compassion for families like the Hendersons can go a long way.
I would love it if these photos caused someone to just rethink their impressions of what it is to be a family experiencing homelessness. I think oftentimes people hear "homeless" and picture a man standing on a street corner with a sign, someone who possibly has dealt with mental illness or substance abuse. We don't often realize that there is also a huge population of people who don't have stable housing who are young families. These may be people your kids go to school with, people you see shopping at the grocery store, or even someone you work with. Homelessness takes many forms, as does parenting. I want people to look at these images and see that we are more alike than different. It's my hope that people can find glimpses of their own family in this series. I certainly did.
13 Horror Films That Won't Scar Your Tweens For Life
As a Certified Wimp™, there are only a few scary movies that I can really handle watching to ensure I don't spend the next week having nightmares over a film's plot. However, I was forced to watch tons of horror movies as a kid at sleepovers and birthday parties, because it's apparently some kind of rite of passage as a tween and teen to sit through scary movies with friends and not completely freak out (which I never once succeeded at, for the record).
Whether you're a horror film buff or not, you may have a budding scary-movie-lover on your hands (or just a kid who wants to watch all of the movies in various Halloween movie marathons on TV without really knowing what they're getting into). To ease your 9- to 13-year-olds into scary movies, there are a handful of classics and a few newer horror films that have just the right amount of fright - there's nothing too terrifying, but nothing too childish on this list. (You know your kid best, so before watching some of these films, you may have to consider what your child can handle, despite the age each film is considered appropriate for.)
Read ahead for 13 scary movies that are perfect to pop on at your tween's next sleepover, during a Halloween party, or on your next family movie night (and check out this larger list of Halloween movies for kids of all ages).
Related: Boo! 21 Kid-Friendly Halloween Movies Your Family Can Stream on Netflix Now
We Give MANY Hufflef*cks About These Harry Potter Swear Word Wine Glasses
Anyone who has a soft spot for Ron Weasley or even Dobby knows there is nothing better in the muggle world than curling up in a blanket and binging the entire Harry Potter movie franchise in one sitting. And no matter if you're a tried-and-true Gryffindor or strictly identify with the Hufflepuff house, these Harry Potter Swear Word Wine Glasses ($32 for all four) are going to be your new favorite movie marathon accessories, particularly if you enjoy a good glass of vino and let the occasional F-bomb slip. Hey, we're all human! Scroll through to get a peek at the whole collection and try not to empty your entire bank account in the process.
Related: PSA: Lego Now Sells a 6,020-Piece Hogwarts Castle, So I Know What I Want For the Holidays
22 Harry Potter Ornaments That’ll Make Your Tree Look Like the Ones in Hogwarts
If you're a Harry Potter fan, you've no doubt spent long periods of time caught up in your own daydreams about what it would be like to spend Christmas at Hogwarts. The Great Hall, full of trees dragged in and decorated by Hagrid, pumpkin juice served up with meals, a Christmas feast followed by a game of Wizards' Chess - sounds utterly delightful. Since we're not at Hogwarts, however, there's no reason our own trees can't hold a little bit of wizards' magic in them to at least make us feel a bit like we're away at school with our best wizard and witch friends.
Ahead, our favorite Harry Potter ornaments that'll make your muggle tree feel magical.
What Do You Even Gift a 1-Year-Old? Here Are 31 Brilliant Stocking Stuffer Ideas
If you have a few 1-year-olds on your gift list this holiday season but have absolutely no idea what to get them as a gift, you're not alone. Buying gifts for a child so young can be tricky, but wanting to include them in every part of Christmas morning, including unloading a stocking of goodies, is something you can definitely make possible.
Whether you're looking for gifts for your own baby or need inspiration for someone else's 1-year-old, find some of our favorite stocking stuffer gifts (aka small and perfectly sized for tiny hands) for this age group below.
I'm That Overly Cautious Mom Who Throws Away All Halloween Candy That Isn't Totally Sealed
Hello! Allow me to introduce myself. I'm that super-overprotective mom who is paranoid AF. Especially around Halloween, when so many scary things can happen (literally). I need only have heard one story about one kid eating a piece of candy that was tampered with, even if it was way back in 1987 when I was a kid myself, to unleash some corporate-level quality control on my own kids' stash before they dig in.
Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
I operate under the assumption that a parent can never be too cautious when your children are basically taking candy from strangers. So, yes, every year, my kids have to wait while I inspect their chocolate bars and lollipops for, oh, I don't know, razor blades. If I happen to see a wrapper that isn't totally sealed (anything wrapped at the sides is gone) or looks iffy, like someone removed it and rewrapped it, or even just lifted up the edge, I toss that peanut butter cup or mini licorice pack faster than you can say "trick-or-treat."
Not that I encounter too much suspicious candy, but believe me, it's out there. Last year, my kids brought home several chocolate eggs in Christmas wrappers. Thinking about it logically, best case scenario, that candy was 10 months old. Indeed, a quick inspection inside the red and green foils revealed some rather questionable-looking chocolate that was covered in white powder. Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
Here's the thing: My kids don't need all the candy they score on Halloween anyway. Their teeth are probably already going to rot out from the stuff I let them keep that's totally on the up and up. I simply fail to see the need to keep candy on hand that gives me any reason to doubt whether it's safe for my children to eat.
Most of the time, my kids don't even notice I've edited their bounty and removed any candy I've either never heard of or that could possibly have been tampered with, no matter how unlikely. And even if they gave me a hard time, I'd tell them what my mom used to tell me: "It's better to be safe than sorry." One day, when they're parents, they'll understand.
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.
This Harry Potter Umbrella Changes Color When It Rains, and Now We're Praying For a Storm
We know the drill: when you wake up and look out the window only to see raindrops hitting your window, the last thing you want to do is crawl out of bed to start your day. Fortunately, all the Hogwarts fans out there have something to look forward to as they dodge puddles on the way to school: this incredible Color-Changing Harry Potter Umbrella ($30).
And no, the umbrella doesn't change colors on account of a bewitching spell; all it takes is a little rain for it to go from black and white to full-on colorful. Whether you're a Hufflepuff or a Ravenclaw, there's seriously something so sophisticated about those house crests. Scroll through to see this awesome product up close.
Image Source: Unsplash user Shehran Syed
Not a Trick: 15 Healthy and Adorable Halloween Treats
The thought of the highs and lows a child gets from binging on Halloween candy is enough to put the scare in any parent. But kids don't need to succumb to sugar's roller coaster ride. Though a few pieces of candy on Halloween night are almost non-negotiable, we've rounded up 14 healthier Halloween goodies that are not only adorable, but are sure to be a treat.
41 Crocheted Newborn Costumes For Their First Halloween
The desire to dress tiny newborns in adorable little clothes always wins out over the feeling that maybe you shouldn't be spending that much money on such a small human who will grow out of anything new in a few days. However, to indulge your very natural enthusiasm to dress your teeny baby, we've compiled our favorite knitted outfits for your newborn to wear for their first Halloween - or even for their first photo shoot - that can be knitted or crocheted by the crafty mom or bought on Etsy.
This Beer Advent Calendar Will Take Your Merriness Up About 4,236 Notches This Holiday Season
Anyone who considers themselves a no-nonsense Christmas-lover is completely aware that the anticipation leading up to the big day is half the battle. Other than decorating your home with garland and making sure every ornament is in place, all you've left to do is wait for Santa to come cruising down the chimney. Thankfully, there's a age-old way to kill time: by drinking, of course. And this handy Beer Advent Calendar ($90) is the best way to get a little tipsy while waiting to open presents.
Created by a company called Give Them Beer - how fitting, we know - each Advent calendar comes with 12 days of full-size craft beers that include selections like Dirtwolf Double IPA, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, and Racer 5 IPA. Read through to get a look at the product, and pro tip: you'll want to order yours ASAP since they get delivered during week of Nov. 19!
You're Going to Be Insanely Jealous Over These Halloween Costumes 1 Mom Crochets
Stephanie Pokorny, a mom of four boys and a seriously talented crocheter, has always loved making things with her hands. Over the past few years, Stephanie decided to blend her passion for crocheting with her Halloween obsession, and the results are these jaw-dropping costumes she made by hand.
"I have always been someone who liked to make things, so instead of the toy store, my grandma and grandpa would take me to the craft store instead," Stephanie told POPSUGAR. "My grandma taught me at 16, and I became obsessed. The rest is history! I have always been a real Halloween-lover, so it was natural to combine the two loves."
As for how she selects which costumes to create? She lets her boys decide, of course. "Each year, my children choose what they want to be, and I do my best to make it come to life for them," explained Stephanie.
And yes, as expected, each creation takes a heck of a long time to bring to life. "The costumes are freehanded with no pattern, and that's actually my favorite way to work," said the mom. "I'm guessing the Predator costume I did most recently took about 40 hours over a period of three weeks."
Read through to get a look at Stephanie's incredible handiwork.
Doctor Delivers a Baby En Caul and Watches Her Wiggle Around as If in the Womb For 7 Minutes
Triplet births are pretty rare to begin with, but even rarer are "en caul" births, when a baby is born with its amniotic sac in tact. We've seen births like this before, where doctors deliver the baby inside what looks like - for lack of a better comparison - a clear rubber casing, then they usually pop the sac and the baby is fully born. During a recent triplets C-section birth, Dr. Rodrigo da Rosa Filho delivered not one, but two of the babies en caul, but instead of opening the sac right away, watched the third baby, a little girl, wriggle around for seven minutes - giving us the best possible peek at what babies look like in the womb.
"Yesterday we birthed the triplets! And Joaquim was born veiled (when the waters/sac does not break). We were delighted," reads a translation of the doctor's post on Instagram. "But then came Adeline . . . she was also born en caul, and left us all admiring her as she slept soundly. We stayed (that way) for seven minutes observing her behavior as if it were still inside her belly. It's the magic of life."
Related: This Video of a Baby Being Born en Caul Is Going to Blow Your Mind
Check out the truly mesmerizing en caul video above.
These $4 Heated Gloves on Amazon Will Keep Your Hands Warm in the Office
A cold office can be distracting to work in - nobody likes to be chilly, especially if they're typing and their fingers are rigid. That's where these Iusun USB Heating Gloves ($4) come in. The ridiculously affordable mittens each plug into a USB port and warm up in minutes.
The gloves come in two different colors, and the material they're made with is super soft. The cord that's attached is about eight inches long, which gives you plenty of space to move around while they're plugged in. They're great for office environments, and avid gamers love them too. We would even use them while surfing the internet at home.
We can't wait to give this product a try during the Winter months. Score yourself a pair while they're in stock on Amazon!
4 Signs You're Burnt Out as a Mom
Burnt out (adj.): A state in which you are mentally unable to handle any more stress. A state in which your energy and mental resources are depleted.
We all have moments in time in which we feel stressed, but sometimes we don't even realize how burnt out we are even if others around us can see that we are. Being a burnt-out mom is not only bad for you, but it's also bad for the people around you. Unfortunately, mothers are socialized to ignore their needs; taking care of us as mothers is considered selfish. Worse still, asking for help is seen as somewhat weak.
This cultural attitude of the "strong mom" is hurtful to mothers and women. Being strong doesn't mean working yourself to death until you're exhausted and mentally spent. Instead, think of your mothering "power" as a business: when a CEO needs someone to take over a department, a good CEO finds a manager to take charge. That manager then finds workers and fills his or her staff up with people to share the workload.
Be a good CEO. Be a "strong mom." Divide and conquer. Ask for help. Utilize your partner if you've got one and your family or friends based on their strengths. Rome was not built in a day. It takes a village to raise a child.
You are not Rome. You are not a village.
Strategize and take care of yourself or you're no good for anyone!
Sign #1: Forgetting Everything
Sure, there's preggo brain and mommy brain, but when you start forgetting things constantly, it's a sign you're burnt out.
When I had to move suddenly, I started forgetting things, which was so out of character for me. I also started losing things. It made sense, though: I lost my house and had to move suddenly, which was very stressful, and I was searching for a place on my own all among divorce proceedings. I was a burnt-out mom running on fumes. Realizing this allowed me to help myself.
Sign #2: Snapping at the Kids and Partner
Have you been a bit snappy lately? Maybe yelled at the kids and later on thought, "Hmm, there was no reason for me to yell. Why did I do that?"
Has your partner accused you of being moody or the B word?
You might very well be completely and utterly burnt out.
Sign #3: Constantly Tired
Does it seem as if your go-to response when people ask how you are is "tired"?
Do you long to crawl into your bed night after night and frequently wake up in the morning still feeling drained?
You, my friend, are burnt out. To a crisp!
Sign #4: Watering Down Your "Mom" Routine
Are you the mom who makes three-course meals for every meal, but now you're telling the kids, "Just fend for yourself," again?
Were you the type of mom to sit and play with your kids and now find yourself barely fitting in a minute to play a game of Candy Land?
Do you go to bed feeling guilty as if you're not being your typical self with the kids?
A sign of burnout. You're burnt out and have no energy for yourself, much less energy to be Mom of the Year.
Now What?
If you think you're burnt out, let's list some strategies that have helped friends of mine AND me in the past. Hopefully you'll find a tool here that resonates with you. Don't feel bad for being burnt out. Sometimes life does this to us. Sometimes we do this to ourselves by not reaching out for help. Try one of these strategies to take your stress down a few notches!
- Stop Saying Yes: You might be burnt out from committing to too many responsibilities. Women feel bad saying no. Don't. If you are stretched to the limit, chances are your kids are too. Start practicing the word "no"!
- Yoga, at Home: If you can't afford the time or money for a gym membership, try a yoga app or DVD. Many of my friends swear that yoga has helped reduce their stress levels and increased their energy.
- Therapy: You may be burnt out because life has placed some difficulties on your plate like divorce, illness, pregnancy loss, death in the family, etc. No matter what the case, therapy may be just what you need.
- Turn Off the Tech: I had my phone on way too late and was receiving work emails late at night, which subsequently stressed me and impacted my sleep. Reduce your use of tech. Turn off the phones, log off Facebook, and tune out.
- Not Enough Hands: Does the majority of childcare fall in your lap? Is your partner taking the share? If you answered yes to the first question and no to the second, it's time to have an honest conversation with your partner about stepping up to the plate. A burnt-out partner will only end up affecting your spouse. If your spouse is taking on responsibility but you two still find yourselves drained or lacking the ability to get out together alone, seek out your children's teachers, moms groups, and Care.com for a reliable sitter if family won't help. If family will help, ask them!
- Lower Your Expectations: Most likely, you expect 150 percent of yourself all the time, and it's not realistic and causing you stress. This doesn't mean let your kids run wild. This means going easier on yourself. Giving you credit where credit is due. Not nailing yourself to the wall with every mistake you make!
- Anxiety Treatment: You might be prone to anxiety, which is causing you to burn out frequently or for long periods of time. Talking to a therapist or a doctor if you would like to go the medication route is a smart move. Yoga and the gym will also help deal with the beast called anxiety.
- The Gym: If you can join, do it! You'll meet people, get in shape, and escape from everyone for a small part of your day. It can't hurt.
- Foods: Are you eating well? How you treat your body will impact your mood.
- A Child Issue: Is your child having difficulties whether developmentally, physically, or emotionally? Getting help for your child and possibly your family if needed will reduce the risk of burn-out. Talk to your pediatrician and or child's teacher for recommendations on how to help your little one with whatever battle he or she is facing.
Mommy burn-out isn't fun, but it doesn't have to persist. Be strong and ask for help. You are not an island or a miracle worker. Don't bite off more than you can chew or it will come back to bite you in the end.
This Map Shows the Best Streets For Trick-or-Treating Near You
There are many reasons to step outside your own street on Halloween - perhaps your neighbors don't participate in the holiday festivities or you live in an apartment complex or rural area that doesn't really allow for trick-or-treating. Maybe your kids are on the hunt for the ever-elusive king-size candy bars! Whatever your reasoning for wanting to mix things up this Halloween, there's one tool that will be your guide to the perfect trick-or-treating adventure: Nextdoor's Treat Map.
The free (and private) social media site for neighbors reports that over 115,000 neighborhoods in the US are already using the Treat Map, with 10 towns across the country reigning supreme in trick-or-treating optimization. The Treat Map is excellent for Halloween fanatics staying in their own 'hoods, too - it simply allows neighbors who are giving out candy (or other noncandy treats) to mark their homes with a candy corn icon, helping kids avoid the disappointment of ringing a doorbell with no response.
There's also a feature on the Treat Map that allows users to indicate that they're hosting a haunted house, so if your family is craving scares on Oct. 31, you'll know where to head.
Want to mark your house on the Treat Map or simply check out where the best trick-or-treating hotspots are in your hometown? Simply sign up on Nextdoor and tell your kids to grab their pumpkin pails - it's going to be a spooktacular Halloween!
10 Epic Theme Parks to Take Your Kids to That Aren't Disney
No one is questioning the amazingness of Disney and all of its parks. It's called the happiest place on earth for a reason, and with the recent opening of the new Toy Story Land, it's rightfully earned its magical stripes. But sometimes you might want to spread your wings and experience other places (or save some money and hit up some less expensive places). Scattered across the country are numerous theme parks, each one with something special to offer you and your family. Some are great for older kids while others perfectly blend attractions for all ages. But no matter what, they all look like so much fun! Keep reading for the 10 best non-Disney theme parks in the US.
40 Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes to Make All Season Long
Crisp Fall days are meant for comfort food, and there are so many ways to make that happen with Fall produce. Pumpkin pastas, butternut squash soups, and more hearty Autumn dinners will warm your soul and fill you up on chilly nights. Consider this your ultimate guide to Fall dinner recipes that you'll want to make all season long.
8 Easy Ways to Instantly Boost Your Self-Confidence
Self-doubt weighing you down? Don't worry; we've all been there before and can understand how frustrating those thoughts can be. But the good news is you don't have to continue walking under rain clouds of negativity. Despite contrary belief, self-confidence is a skill set rather than a character trait. And it's one you can easily teach yourself!
So forget the notion that confidence is something people are born with. If you're seeking to boost your self-esteem, ahead are eight quick actions you can take to become more confident ASAP.
40+ Life-Changing Books to Read This Year
Knowledge is king. The first step to creating change in your life is to know what you're doing wrong or why you need to change. We've picked out 41 books that will better your life in a dramatic way. Whether it's figuring out how to get out of debt, learning how to be happier, or trying to find ways to get a job, reading just one of these books this year is guaranteed to change your life for good.
Anthropologie's Holiday Decor Is Here, and We Want Every Cozy, Decadent Piece
Wave farewell to your savings, because Anthropologie has released holiday decor, and it's so damn whimsical and cozy we are losing our minds. From hand-blown embellished glass ornaments inspired by mermaids and cotton candy to luxurious faux fur stockings and tree skirts, Anthro is here to make your home a glistening Winter wonderland. It's a hygge holiday dream come true. See every single sequined, feathered, tasseled, and felted item ahead, and don't be surprised if you start humming Christmas carols under your breath.
Related: 15 Cozy Home Decor Items You Can't Live Without This Fall
22 Plants From Amazon That Will Clean the Air in Your Home
For many of us, it's important to make sure our homes are clean for a number of reasons, not least of which is to keep ourselves healthy. Regular cleaning tasks like dusting and vacuuming are great for keeping allergies at bay, but what about those damaging particles you can't see? Due to the furniture we buy and air pollutants that get in from outside, your home's air can be full of harsh chemicals and pollutants like formaldehyde, mold, and even car exhaust fumes. While these are almost unavoidable to some degree, the good news is that you don't have to purchase an expensive air purifier to start cleansing the air in your home! Instead, try filling your home with beautiful plants - think of them as nature's air purifiers. And because you can find them on Amazon, all it takes is the click of a button.
20 Minutes Is All You Need to Fall in Love With This White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe
Who says chili always has to be made with ground beef and tomato sauce? There are so many varieties of chili you can make that can be just as delicious and possibly even lighter. I think white chicken is amazing to try in your chili. Not only is it a leaner cut of meat, but you can even play around with the flavor profile of the dish, too.
Even though this white chicken chili is a play on the American classic, by no means does that mean it is not as hearty and warm to the soul. It's packed with protein, fiber, and, of course, lots of spices. So the next time you want to cozy up to bowl of chili, try this one out, and maybe it'll be a new favorite of yours. Bring the whole family together for this Instant Pot recipe too; that's if you have it in your heart to share something so good.
The 11 Trendiest Destinations to Visit This Fall, According to Experts
Fall is the sweet spot when booking a trip because, for many destinations, travelers will encounter fewer crowds, fun festivals, and pleasant weather. From Sweden to Argentina, India, and Bhutan, here's a list of the top 11 trending destinations to visit this Fall and why, according to travel experts.
Disneyland's Halloween Treats Are Here, and OMG, You're Gonna Want to Try Them All!
Disneyland does Halloween right, especially in the treats department. This year, there's an exciting mix of new creations (hi, Coco-themed dessert!) and returning favorites that you won't want to miss. While the Halloween food at Disney World includes an awesome poison-apple cupcake and candy-corn milkshake, the Anaheim parks' creative offerings are just as noteworthy.
Between the food and the new Disneyland Halloween merchandise, you've got a lot of things to add to your must-see (and must-eat) list. Take a look ahead to see some of what's available at Disneyland and California Adventure starting this Halloween season, then check out even more on Disney's blog.
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
10 Expert Tips to Keep Your Monstera Plant Growing Tall
It is safe to say that the monstera plant is absolutely breathtaking. Nicknamed the "Swiss cheese plant" for its giant, holey leaves, the monstera is a great household plant that has the ability to grow tens of feet tall. A native plant of Mexico and Panama, it is also very versatile. Whether you prefer your monstera in an industrial planter on a stand or you like to clip its gigantic leaves for a dinner centerpiece, its greenery can easily be incorporated into everyday life.
However, it can sometimes be hard to keep plants alive and healthy. If you are like me and have accidentally killed plants no matter how much you love on them, then keep reading. We spoke to Justin Hancock, a horticulturist at Costa Farms, and learned the best advice to keep monstera plants thriving.
5 Little Changes That Made a Big Difference For My Sanity
Every week presents its challenges to my sanity. The crazy combination of work, relationships, social life, and the impending future leave hardly any time for me, myself, and I. I am so over it. I lost touch with my surroundings, and, in turn, lost touch with my own sense of who I am. In the course of the past year, I realized I needed change, stat. So I started doing more of what made me happy, more of what made me mindful, and more of what made me smile.
Here are a five little things that I do to make every day a little better and a little brighter.
Please the Entire Family With This Instant Pot Recipe For Tortilla Soup
It's time for everything pumpkin spice and warm and cozy, and soup is topping our Fall food list. A favorite soup of mine to order is tortilla soup, but after making my own homemade version, I don't think I'll ever go back to the restaurant one. Melt-in-your-mouth chicken, bites of sweet corn, and chunks of creamy avocado - it doesn't get better than that. This recipe requires minimal prep and only seven minutes of cooking in the Instant Pot. Looking for a quick dinner to make for a crowd? Then it's time to try this recipe for delicious tortilla soup!
Join Us in Admiring the Boldest, Most Standout Hats at Princess Eugenie's Wedding
With every royal wedding comes a fresh batch of fancy hats and fascinators to admire, and the fashionable guests at Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank's nuptials certainly delivered. Though some attendees went the chic and subdued route, others (like Poppy Delevingne, for example) really went for it, opting for bold headpieces that totally caught our eye as they headed into St. George's Chapel in Windsor to watch Eugenie and Jack tie the knot.
No matter which option the guests chose, one thing was for sure: no one was immune to the blustery winds that took a few unlucky hats captive as guests filed into the chapel. Hah! Ahead, admire all the stylish toppers that managed to stay put for the cameras at this year's second royal wedding, and then be sure to check out all the details about Eugenie's stunning dress.
Princess Eugenie's Wedding Reception Gown Is So Gorgeous, We're Absolutely Awestruck
Princess Eugenie's second wedding dress is fit for, well, royalty. After her elegant nuptials with now-husband Jack Brooksbank on Oct. 12, the couple's official portraits revealed their evening reception looks, and they're absolutely stunning.
While Eugenie opted for a sophisticated full skirt gown with beautiful embroidery for the wedding ceremony, she changed up her look in the evening, choosing a romantic blush Zac Posen dress with long sleeves, a flowing skirt, and detailed shoulders. She kept her accessories minimal, but still wore her emerald earrings from Jack, and a hair slide belonging to her grandmother, Queen Elizabeth.
Designer Zac Posen was honored to be a part of Eugenie's "magical day" and drew his inspiration for the gown from Windsor, where the couple tied the knot at St. George's chapel. The blush hue of the gown reflects the magnificence of an English rose, and the shoulders are embroidered in tribute to the White Rose of York. The meticulous attention to detail definitely paid off - we're completely enamored with Eugenie's ethereal choice.
Princess Eugenie's "Something New" May Have Actually Been This Beautiful Jewelry From Jack
Princess Eugenie arrived at her Oct. 12 wedding to Jack Brooksbank, ready to break some traditions, and stick closely to a few others. Something borrowed? Her mesmerizing Greville Emerald Kokoshnik tiara, on loan from Queen Elizabeth. Something blue? The delicate flowers woven into her bridal bouquet. How about, something new? Well, it's very possible her now-husband helped by gifting her a pair of sparkling earrings.
Eugenie opted out of wearing a veil on her big day, and instead let her drop-style diamond and emerald earrings from Jack speak for themselves. Her choice of jewelry perfectly complemented the princess's shining tiara, as well as her elegant Peter Pilotto gown and towering Charlotte Olympia heels. Ahead, see more glimpses of Eugenie's sparkling gems and make sure you check out what the guests were wearing during this royal wedding.
If You've Got a Party to Go to, You Need a Pair of Pretty Shoes
If you've been invited to a cocktail party, or somewhere you have to dress up, it can feel tempting to put all you effort into finding the right outfit and neglecting your footwear. We know we've been guilty of it. But, having an arsenal of evening shoes is a must for any well-rounded closet. Neutrals and metallics look appropriate with basically anything, and you can feel good about knowing that you'll get real use out of these picks.
21 Stylish Ways to Get Away With Wearing a Slip Dress This Fall
Slip dresses are one of the most underrated pieces to wear in the Fall. While many are afraid to wear this boudoir look out in public, it's actually such an easy number to style - one might even dare to call it a wardrobe staple. If you're confused on how to get away with wearing this sultry dress out in the streets and make it a cold-weather essential, we've got you covered. Scroll on to find 21 easy ways to rock a slip dress. Then, if we've won you over, you can shop some of our favorite picks ahead.
You'd Never Guess What Eugenie's Daring Wedding Gown Shares With the Mother's
It's been over 32 years since Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson (or Fergie, as she is popularly known) walked down the aisle, but Fergie's dress - made with ivory duchesse satin and featuring heavy beading - is still considered iconic '80s fashion. No one expected Prince Andrew's fiancée to stun on her big day, as fashion experts consistently criticized Fergie's figure and supposed lack of style, but then-unknown London designer Lindka Cierach created a gown that was unanimously considered a triumph, and just two hours after the bride appeared, replicas of the dress could be found in shop windows throughout London.
While Fergie's flamboyant dress was very indicative of the time, the stunning dress her daughter Eugenie chose to wear for her big day was a bit more understated. Unlike her mother, Eugenie chose to eschew the traditional veil, and her dress featured a daring low back that no other royal bride has ever pulled off before. While working with designer Peter Pilotto, Princess Eugenie specifically requested an open back in order to show off the scars she was left with after going through corrective back surgery as a child.
The two royal gowns do share a number of similarities, however. Both dresses have meaningful symbolism embroidered in their gowns, as Fergie chose to include her family coat of arms, as well as anchors and waves to represent Andrew's sailing background, and Eugenie's dress featured a garland pattern laced with special meaning. Both mother and daughter also had long, gorgeous trains, with Fergie's even including a letter 'A' for her new husband. Check out the gallery to see a side-by-side comparison of the two equally head-turning gowns.
17 Outfit Hacks We Learned During Fashion Month - and Have Been Using Ever Since
Getting dressed for Fashion Week often reminds me of picking the perfect outfit for the first day of school. Even after seasons working in the industry, I agonize as I plan every detail, wanting something bolder and bigger than my everyday style. It's a feeling a lot of us share, but we're here to shake it off. Instead of dressing a part or playing into trends, we stuck to our favorite looks, with small adjustments here and there - sometimes, it was just the way we tied a sweater. Think of these as fixes - not overhauls, but additions - or the little tweaks you can make to your basics to get the most out of your wardrobe, whether you're heading to Fashion Week or just about anywhere else, too.
This Easy, Comfortable Fall Outfit Is the Alternative to Your Classic Jeans
This season, we're really only interested in wearing things that are comfortable and make us feel good. Enter the sweater dress. It's cozy, practical, and an outfit in and of itself. You can wear it to the office, to drinks with friends, or just laying around the house. Talk about versatile. If you're interested in some new Fall outfit inspiration, look no further.
samedi 13 octobre 2018
Introducing 30 Days to a Flat Belly - a Workout Plan to Get You the Results You Want
If your fitness goals include a flatter belly and stronger core, you're going to need a solid plan, expert guidance, and a little outside motivation. Our 30 Days to A Flat Belly plan has all three! This comprehensive workout plan will give you results you want without a pricey gym membership; you can do these workouts anywhere - and they're all 30 minutes or less.
Getting rid of belly fat is not about just doing crunches, so this workout plan delivers you a scheduled mix of flat-belly workouts:
- Full-body strength training to build muscle and fuel your metabolism
- Calorie-torching cardio
- HIIT workouts to target belly fat
- Ab workouts to build core strength
- Coaching on rest days
Our own Class FitSugar host, Anna Renderer, will coach you through the 30-day program, motivating and supporting you to stay on track. Because you can't out-train an unhealthy lifestyle, Anna will provide you with actionable tips on healthy eating, hydration, sleep, and recovery. You will truly look and feel your best.
Click here to purchase the plan for only $9.99. Let's hit those goals together.
This Is How I Meal Prepped For a Week Using Only Trader Joe's Ingredients
Trader Joe's is hands down my favorite place to grocery shop. Before I started shopping at the budget store, I never thought I'd ever hear myself say "enjoy" and "grocery shopping" in the same sentence, but it's true. I really love my weekly trip to meal-prep heaven.
Trader Joe's is the land of endless possibilities. It has every ingredient you can dream of, from pesto-marinated chicken to gluten-free granola - I could spend hours in the frozen food section alone, and I definitely didn't know how many ways there were to prepare cauliflower until I started shopping at the store - all at reasonable prices.
But with options comes responsibility. It is easy to get overwhelmed by all of the different choices at TJ's, especially when you're trying to stick to your healthy eating goals and are tempted by delicious things like birthday cake popcorn and peanut butter cups. That's why I've broken down a few quick and nutritious meal-prep ideas that use a few favorite Trader Joe's finds.
If You're Cutting Carbs to Lose Weight, Don't Make This Common Mistake
Think all carbs are created equal? Nikki, known as justget.fit on Instagram, posted this comparison photo for those watching their carb intake in order to lose weight. Most people think of bread, pasta, rice, and cereal when they restrict carbs, but Nikki wants you to remember that fruits contain carbs, too.
These photos aren't meant to stop you from eating fruit! Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, fruit should be eaten as part of a healthy diet, and they are definitely a healthier choice compared to overly processed bread! But these photos are meant to bring awareness that even healthy foods like fruit can contain high numbers of carbs, which if you eat in excess for your body can lead to weight gain.
In this example, a banana has twice the number of carbs as a slice of whole wheat bread. The banana is also higher in calories and sugar and lower in protein. Both of these offer different kinds of carbs - the fruit is simple carbs, and the whole wheat bread is complex - so they break down at different rates. Neither one is "better" than the other. "The point of this is that it is beneficial to know what's what ☝ so you can make informed choices based on your dietary preferences and goals."
This is just something to think about if you're tracking your macros or trying to cut down on carbs. Definitely don't ditch fruit altogether - we're not saying that! But if you eat a lot of fruit, and you're not losing weight, this could be the reason why.
After Doing Whole30, I Can Tell You Exactly What Food Triggers My Anxiety
I've been taking a low dose of anxiety medication since finals week of my senior year of college. For a long time, it was exactly what I needed to keep my symptoms at bay. Unfortunately, though, as I made my way into my 30s with a full-time consulting job, a side hustle, and a new marriage, I found myself settling into my old anxious ways even with the medication. That's probably why I found myself consuming a few too many sugary treats to ease the stress of my busy days. (Hey! There's nothing a pack of Sour Patch Kids can't cure, amiright?)
When I finally decided to kick my habit of overindulgence to the curb, Whole30 seemed like the best approach. If you haven't heard of Whole30, it's an elimination diet that requires you to remove processed foods, dairy, alcohol, legumes, and grains from your life for 30 days. In short, I would be eating a lot of meat and vegetables for the next month!
I'd heard so many inspiring stories from people who had successfully completed the challenge and gone on to have healthier, more fulfilled lives. So, I cleaned out my cupboards, bought a ridiculous number of avocados, and gave my husband a fair warning. I was about to begin Whole30.
Throughout the challenge I experienced most of the same struggles and benefits that most people experience throughout the 30-day program. I was tired in the beginning, but then super energized for the last 10 days of the program. I slept better, my stomach was flatter, and my skin was clearer. I didn't have a lot of cravings, but my husband will tell you that a glass of Rosé was all I wanted for the whole 30 days.
But the most surprising part of Whole30 happened at the end. I noticed that I wasn't feeling my usual anxious feelings throughout the day. In fact, sometime around day 25, I realized I couldn't remember the last time I even felt anxious! Even more surprising was that my anxiety was gone even though I didn't have my usual comfort foods on hand.
After reintroducing each eliminated food group one by one, it became really obvious that sugar was the culprit of my heightened anxiety. Sometimes the negative effects of my beloved Sour Patch Kids lasted well into the next day. And that glass of Rosé I'd been craving? Even the sugar in that left me feeling uncomfortable.
Have I completely eliminated sugar from my diet? I have to admit the answer is no, but the awareness of how sugar impacts my anxiety has been extremely eye opening. Now, instead of checking the calorie count on the foods I eat, I look first at the amount of sugar. This has helped me avoid foods that I once thought were healthy, but were probably making me feel bad. I'll probably never cut sugar completely out of my life, but now I know that when I'm feeling extra anxious, I should avoid sugary snacks.
11 Cute and Comfy Travel Dresses Perfect For Long Plane Rides
Sitting on a plane in constricting jeans is terrible. Ditch your denim for something much more comfortable: a dress. There are plenty of options that are light and floaty, so you can relax on a plane or long road trip. We curated a selection of the very best picks that are easy to pack, wrinkle-free, and incredibly cute. Shop through these genius choices, and get yourself one before holiday travel is your priority.
Didn't Catch Princess Eugenie's Something Blue? It Was Hiding in Her Bouquet
Princess Eugenie's something blue was hiding in her bouquet! At her wedding to Jack Brooksbank on Oct. 11 at Windsor Castle's St. George's Chapel, the royal carried a crisp white bouquet with blue thistle, which contrasted the autumnal flowers that decorated the chapel.
Though the bouquet followed tradition, the pop of color was a nice touch. Florist Amelia Christoffers broke down its significance to the Evening Standard. "Princess Eugenie's bouquet has followed the traditional royal line of white, sweet-smelling British flowers with plush green foliage, but with an added twist," she said. "Perhaps as a nod to her Scottish heritage, her beautiful arrangement includes blue thistle, which adds a contemporary pop of color and personality."
In addition, Eugenie included a sprig of myrtle, which comes from a long tradition started by Queen Victoria in the 19th century. As it's told, the then queen planted a myrtle shrub shortly after her wedding, and royals have since picked myrtle from that same shrub for their nuptials. Ahead, look at pictures of Eugenie's elegant bouquet.
We're in "Shoulder Season" - Here's How It Can Help You Save on Travel
The time has come to officially bid farewell to Summer, but don't shed a tear just yet, wanderlusters. Summer's end also marks the beginning of Fall "shoulder season," a glorious time of year where both crowds and prices start to thin. Don't give up on that dream getaway you thought was out of reach just yet.
So what is shoulder season exactly? It simply refers to the period between a destination's high and low seasons. The airline industry experiences the season as well, as carriers are striving to maintain passenger traffic in the off season. As a result, many airlines and hotels will lower their rates or offer special packages this time of year. So if you want to take advantage of this prime cost-saving travel season, now is the time to do it! Read on for various ways you can save some serious cash this Fall.
This Greatest Showman-Themed Wedding Will Make Your Heart Sing
The 2017 movie musical The Greatest Showman celebrates acceptance, love, and unity - kind of like a wedding! Fittingly, photographer Claire Celeste decided to style a wedding shoot to pay homage to the movie.
In the film, Phillip Carlyle (Zac Efron) falls in love with Anne Wheeler, an acrobat and trapeze artist played by Zendaya. Their sizzling chemistry in the movie is undeniable and the inspiration behind this photo shoot. "This truly was a celebration of humanity based after the movie The Greatest Showman and the love story of Phillip Carlyle and Anne Wheeler," Claire said.
The shoot took place at 1010 West in Orlando, FL, a marvelous historic venue that's over a century old, and Kristen Michelle Wilson, the first female ringmaster for Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, served as the officiant.
While the final photos look gorgeous and glamorous, a lot of hard work went into the production of this shoot. "Getting a crew this talented and varied together was no small feat," Claire said. "Kind of like coordinating an actual circus!" Scroll through for some big-top inspiration for your big day.
Ditch the Pumpkin and Carve a Spooky Pineapple Jack-o'-Lantern Instead - Get the DIY
There is no activity more fun around this time of the year than carving out pumpkins. That is, until we carved out pineapples! My favorite fruit has been and always will be pineapple, so why not bring a taste of the tropics to the Fall season? Pumpkins make for great jack-o'-lanterns, but pineapples make for a great spin off the Halloween tradition. Impress your guests and surprise your trick-or-treaters with this spooky fruit. If you're looking to try something new, follow this step-by-step tutorial for carving out a pineapple. The best part is there are no seeds, so less mess, and the cored-out fruit also makes for a sweet, healthy snack.
Articles
