Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mercredi 24 octobre 2018
A Strength Coach Says These Are the 6 Most Effective Workouts For People Short on Time
We get it: trying to get a quality workout in can seem nearly impossible when you've got work, school, kids, and extracurricular activities pulling you in every direction. If it's hard to fit training into your schedule, strength coach Chad Driscoll shared his top workouts for the days when you're short on time. "You really only need 30-45 minutes to get an effective workout in," he said in his Instagram caption.
Instead of stressing the next time you have a busy day or couple of weeks, Chad recommended trying one of the following workouts.
- Superset strength: A superset means you complete two exercises that work different muscle groups/movement patterns back-to-back without taking any rest. An example of this would be doing 15 reps of dumbbell squats followed by 15 reps of push-ups. If your goal is to build muscle without spending hours at the gym, try this quick, full-body superset workout.
- HIIT cardio: Instead of running on the treadmill to get your cardio in, kick it up a notch by adding exercises like mountain climbers, jumping jacks, and squat jumps into your routine. This 20-minute cardio HIIT workout will really target your abs and legs.
- Sprint intervals: Sprinting is one of the best styles of training to burn fat and build lean muscle. They can be done on the track, on a soccer field, or on the treadmill. Whatever method you choose, be sure to go all-out for maximum results. Here are three sprint workouts to get you started.
- Full-strength circuit: Circuit training means that you'll alternate between a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups. Similar to a superset, you'll have minimal rest in between exercises. Check out this 30-minute beginner circuit.
- 30-minute class: Another option is to take a quick, 30-minute workout class. Instead of stressing about creating your own program, let someone else instruct you. We love this 30-minute fat-burning, full-body workout.
- Single-equipment workout: Instead of trying to incorporate all of your favorite equipment into your workout, save time and use only use one piece of equipment. This can be one set of heavy dumbbells, a kettlebell, or a barbell. This intense full-body workout only requires a kettlebell.
There's a New Healthy Ice Cream in Town, and It's Packed With Good-For-Your-Gut Probiotics!
Clear some space in your freezers, folks, because there's a new healthy ice cream brand in town, and you're going to want every single flavor. World, meet Culture Republick. It's the first-ever light ice cream that's jam-packed with live probiotic cultures, aka the good-for-your-gut stuff that help regulate your digestive system. POPSUGAR got the inside scoop (corny pun fully intended) on the new brand and taste tested all seven flavors before it hits select store shelves, and we definitely think it ranks among the best in the now-saturated world of healthy ice creams.
First, let's discuss some fun stats about what makes Culture Republick so crave-worthy, shall we? For starters, each pint contains 3 billion (yes, billion) live and active cultures to help get your gut health back on track. On top of that, every pint boasts just 410 to 490 calories, a whopping 16 to 18 grams of protein, and 11 to 13 grams of fiber, depending on the flavor.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Victoria Messina
They all have a smooth, creamy texture and don't taste out of the ordinary in any way due to the added probiotics.
Speaking of the flavors, there are seven of 'em, and each mashup is just as mouthwatering as the next. There are Milk & Honey, Chocolate & Cherry, Lemon & Graham, Pistachio & Salted Caramel, Turmeric Chai & Cinnamon, Cold Brew & Chocolate Chip (my personal favorite), and Matcha & Fudge. They all have a smooth, creamy texture and don't taste out of the ordinary in any way due to the added probiotics. I mean, wouldn't you rather devour a nightly bowlful of Chocolate & Cherry ice cream rather than take a supplemental probiotic pill every day?
Another cool tidbit about Culture Republick: the brand partnered with up-and-coming artists to design the colorful pint packaging, and it plans to donate 10 percent of its profits to support the arts in local communities. How rad is that?
Culture Republick's probiotic ice creams are starting to roll out this month at select retailers, including Meijer, Shoprite, certain Target stores, and Albertsons, Safeways, and Rite Aids located in California, just to name a few. The pints will cost $4 to $5, which is definitely a lot more affordable than some of the overpriced competitors out there. Read on for a full breakdown of the nutritional facts for each flavor of this gut-friendly dessert, along with some candid thoughts that my fellow POPSUGAR employees and I had during our in-office taste test.
9 Changes You Can Make Today to Improve Your Eating Habits and Lose Weight
The basics of losing weight make sense: eat healthy, exercise, get enough sleep, drink a lot of water, and manage your stress. But when it boils down to the logistics, many people get confused. What does "eating healthy" actually look like? After all, there's no one-size-fits-all diet.
Online health coach Sarah Duff (@sarahdufflifestyleandfitness on Instagram) shared some tips to improve your eating habits, which can help you make gradual changes and see results. Whether you want to eat better to lose weight or just feel healthier, these are the nine things Sarah recommends:
- Don't be extreme.
- Plan your meals ahead of time.
- Have a fridge that reflects your goals.
- Remember portions aren't universal, so find what works for you.
- Have a basic meal format (such as protein plus vegetables).
- Eat without distractions (no TV or phone).
- Have a support network.
- Focus on progress, not perfection.
- Keep your eye on your "why."
"When you're trying to learn new habits, you need to actually do some thinking and learning to plan things ahead of time," she wrote in her Instagram caption. "If you continue to freewheel in a state of chaos, you will end up back at square one. Remember change needs change."
So start making these changes today, and you'll see progress in no time. Remember: a lifestyle transformation doesn't happen overnight. But with these baby steps, you can work toward a healthier you.
These Are All the Beverages You Can Drink When You're Intermittent Fasting
Starting a new diet is always a challenge, and intermittent fasting (IF) is no different, although some (including myself) would consider IF a lifestyle rather than a diet or trend. The most common form of IF is the 16:8 formula, where you fast for 16 hours a day and eat all your meals within an eight-hour window. It may sound difficult to someone who has never tried it before, but it's totally doable!
If you speak to your doctor or a dietitian and decide that IF is right for you, you'll probably have a lot of questions about how to embark on your fasting journey. One very common question is what you can and cannot drink during your fasting window.
I've been doing IF for about seven months now, and I struggled with this in the beginning. When you first start fasting, your body looks for just about any way to cheat because being hungry is initially uncomfortable (don't worry, though, your hunger will eventually decrease over time). That means you'll probably try to drink anything and everything in sight, from soda to juice to smoothies.
But there are pretty much only three things you can drink when you're fasting:
- Coffee: Unfortunately, you can't add anything into your coffee when you're in your fasting window, like cream, milk, or sugar, because this will throw off your fasting window.
- Tea: Same thing here - tea is only appropriate if it's free of sweeteners or additives.
- Water: Whatever you do, don't skip out on drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will prevent dehydration and help curb your hunger.
That's your magical trio of IF beverages! If you find other zero-calorie beverages you like, like sparkling water or Hint water, feel free to add those to the list as well. I recommend stocking up on tasty teas that bring a little excitement into your fasting window, like rooibos, green tea, etc. Stay away from things like juice, sweetened tea and other beverages, and alcohol. If it feels impossible in the beginning to only drink the above, give it time. Your body will adjust before you know it.
7 Foods I Ate as Often as Possible to Get Rid of My Belly Fat
When it comes to losing weight and changing your body, what you eat has the biggest impact. When I was trying to lose weight last year, I was exercising regularly (mostly strength training and running), but I spent more time cleaning up my diet. After a few months of hard work, I dropped a dress size and shrunk my midsection. These are the seven foods I ate regularly in order to get rid of my belly fat. Spoiler alert: I didn't have to give up carbs.
Kate Middleton Paid Tribute to Princess Diana by Wearing Her Favorite Tiara
Kate Middleton certainly has her pick of royal tiaras, but it looks like she keeps coming back to one in particular: the Cambridge Lover's Knot. While attending a state banquet alongside Prince William and Queen Elizabeth II on Oct. 23, Kate looked like a real-life Cinderella. She opted for a blue Alexander McQueen gown, and her choice in jewelry suggests she favors the same regal accessories as her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana.
This isn't the first time Kate has made a sweet nod to Diana with this special tiara. She wore rhe Lover's Knot (from Queen Mary's collection) to diplomatic receptions in 2015, 2016, and 2017. The queen gave Diana this jeweled headpiece as a wedding present, and it became a favorite for the late princess, along with the complementary Collingwood pearl drop earrings. Ahead, see a photo of Diana wearing both the tiara and earrings, then keep reading for more snaps of Kate in the same accessories.
Meghan Markle's Fashion Picks Are Always a Party, But This Pom-Pom Dress Takes the Cake
Meghan Markle is making an unforgettable statement with her maternity style. The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in Fiji with husband Prince Harry on Oct. 24 to visit the University of the South Pacific as part of their 16-day royal tour.
While Meghan kept things formal the day before, she opted for a more casual Figue printed dress ($1,495) during her Wednesday walkthrough. The bold and beautiful outfit, with its multicolored pom-poms and asymmetrical ruffles, perfectly complemented the garlands gifted to the duchess throughout the trip. She paired the ensemble with Karen Walker earrings, a Shaun Leane bracelet, and black Castañer espadrilles - the same pair Pippa Middleton owns! Meghan tied the whole look together with a patterned clutch (that's actually a folder!) made by local women at the Suva Market in Fiji. Check out more snaps of Meghan's outfit below, and make sure to keep up with all her outfits from the tour so far.
This Very Famous Designer Was Dressing Lady Gaga When "People Didn't Know Who She Was"
I celebrate just like the next girl when I see Christian Siriano's diverse runway, which he describes as the "new world of what's beautiful." The clothes are colorful, the women are colorful, and there is such a wide variety of body shapes and sizes represented, it's impossible not to stand up and cheer. But I also love to scan his front row - he has so many admirers who he's worked with for years showing up in support, Whoopi Goldberg included.
When I got the chance to talk to Christian, who's launching a new eyewear collection for Transitions that is predictably bold and bright, I wanted to focus on the topic most of us are interested in: his impressive roster of celebrity enthusiasts and his red carpet domination through the years - though he promises that has only happened naturally:
"We never go after people. We are not like, 'Oh, I have to dress that person.' I really like to make it more organic and I think that's why I had success on the red carpet for so long, because we just hope for the best and I don't put so much pressure on myself because that'll drive me crazy . . . We will reach out to stylists, but I don't let it make or break my life," he told me.
Christian recounted some of his proudest moments for me, like Michelle Obama's blue DNC dress, for which he received one of his most memorable compliments. But he truly treasures his relationship with Lady Gaga, and he so humbly reminded me that he was one of the first people to dress her and still works with her today. Keep scrolling to find the one woman Siriano has yet to create something for (no spoilers here!) and the one gown from his Spring 2019 line that you just might see pop up this award season.
All the Pretty Watches We're Adding to Our Wish Lists STAT
Fitness trackers and smart watches are becoming the norm these days, but a true fashion girl can't resist wearing a stylish timepiece. If you know someone who would love a new one this holiday, we did the hard work for you and uncovered the best designs of the year. With styles from brands like Kate Spade New York, Tory Burch, and even Chanel, you should be careful while shopping; you might end up wanting a few for yourself. Take a look ahead.
Wait For It - You've Never Seen Kate Middleton in a Dress Like This Before
Even while repping a favorite label, Kate Middleton stunned us all in a blue Alexander McQueen gown at a state dinner on Tuesday evening at Buckingham Palace. Though her style has often been pigeonholed and pegged as more predictable, the duchess of Cambridge's appearance in this gown was both a nod to tradition and a refreshing change of pace. Her tiara, the Lover's Knot, was a favorite of Princess Diana's and matches the pearl drop earrings she chose for the occasion, which were also once Diana's.
Meanwhile, the dress is all new. The silhouette is a more body-conscious fit, complete with ruching and a trumpeted skirt. It's both regal and romantic, and a departure from the more classic dresses we've become accustomed to seeing her in - and it's giving us major Cinderella vibes. Read on to see the look that will surely make your jaw drop.
You'll Be Clearing Out Your Closet to Make Room For These 18 Shoulder Bags
We're so into the re-emergence of the classic shape of a shoulder bag. They're easy to carry, and versatile; you can wear them to work, to parties, or running weekend errands. From lustworthy designer picks to wallet-friendly finds, these are the designs we can't wait to wear.
Jennifer Aniston Styled Her Sexy Gown With Grandpa Glasses, and We Love Her For It
Jennifer Aniston always manages to look stunning, even in a simple black gown. The actress attended the 2018 InStyle awards to support her hairstylist, Chris McMillan, wearing a figure-hugging gown that featured a slit in the back. She accessorized with a pair of strappy gold heels, statement earrings, and a couple of gold rings.
When she took the stage to present Chris with the award for hairstylist of the year, Jennifer did the most relatable thing ever by putting on a pair of glasses. Somehow she looked even chicer in her grandpa glasses, which she has been spotted wearing plenty of times before. Read on to see all angles of her outfit and buy similar versions of her gown if you're feeling inspired.
Here's Everything You'll Need to Copy Rihanna in All Her Holy Glory at the Met Gala
The moment Rihanna arrived at the Met Gala this year, it was like she parted the red sea carpet and showed everyone why she's truly a fashion icon. Rihanna, who was one of the cohosts, blessed the world with a Margiela pope-inspired outfit that had us in pure awe. The theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," and boy, did she stick to it!
What better way to pay homage to Rihanna in all her holy glory than re-creating her look for Halloween? The basic essentials you'll need are a mitre aka a bishop's hat, a silver beaded dress or a top and miniskirt, a long jacket, pearl ankle bracelets, and silver glitter heels. Shop everything you'll need to dress up like Rihanna and prepare to have others bow down!
28 Outfit Ideas That'll Make You Believe Midi Dresses Are a Fall Staple
It's a common misconception that you can't wear a dress once Summer is over. A midi dress is one of the most versatile pieces you can wear in the Fall because of its hemline, which usually hits halfway between the knee and ankle. The length makes it a great pick for the transitional season.
Midis are easy to wear at your 9-to-5, for parties with your friends, and on date night. But coming up with inventive outfit ideas can feel tiring and overwhelming, especially when you're just working with one piece. For this reason, we're showing you 28 fresh ways to style your midi dress this Fall. Read on to take a look, and shop some pieces for your rotation ahead.
Out of All the Cozy Sweaters on the Internet, These Are the 22 We Want to Hibernate In
Don't waste your time scouring the internet for the comfiest sweaters this season, because we did it for you. Whether you're on the hunt for a cozy cardigan, colorful turtleneck, or soft chenille choice, we have you covered at every price point. So what are you waiting for? Keep scrolling to shop 22 cozy picks that you can wear with absolutely everything.
30 Stocking Stuffers So Luxe, She Won't Even Want a Big Present
Every true fashion girl knows the best gifts come in the smallest packages. This holiday season, go above and beyond by treating her to an extra special stocking stuffer that's so good, you won't even need to get her anything else. From designer wallets to vintage Chanel jewelry pieces, we gathered the best presents that will make her jaw drop. Take a look.
All the Cozy Scarves We're Buying Now and Wearing Through Spring
One of the best parts about layering in cold weather is cuddling up with a cozy scarf. Not only does it keep you warm, but it's also a fun way to add some extra color and texture to any look. This year, it's time to treat yourself to at least one new piece you can wear throughout the season. From plaid prints to soft cashmere, we found it all. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
I Was an Overpacker All My Life Until I Did This 1 Thing
I'm not going to lie: I always pack more outfits than I need to for a trip. Always. Being a habitual overpacker is one bad habit that has stuck with me for as long as I can remember. So, when the Swedish clothing brand Ellos invited me on a four-day press trip to Stockholm to celebrate the launch of National Lagom Day, I went about my normal ways after reading the invite and immediately started dreaming up 20 different outfits to pack. What can I say? A girl needs options.
Then it hit me - lagom. As Anne Stephenson, senior vice president of Ellos, said, "Life is about finding your happy medium. The message of 'lagom' is to discover peace in the simple things - a mantra that we have adopted at Ellos." I took a second to take it all in. Lagom is the Swedish word for "just the right amount." I decided that I shouldn't wait to get to Stockholm to find my happy medium when I could start right now.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything I owned into my bag, I made it my mission to be resourceful, without sacrificing style. I turned to pieces I love that could transition easily from activities and pull double duty on my trip. Here I was living the lagom life - and I hadn't even gotten to Sweden yet. Read on to see what I packed, and use these hacks to bring a little lagom to your life, too.
34 Stylish Ways to Wear Your Dress Without Freezing This Fall
It's hard to let go of your favorite dress once Summer comes to end. Just because the temperatures start to dip, doesn't mean you can't continue to rock them. All you have to do is learn how to layer. With the right pieces, you can continue to wear your sheer midis, slip dresses, and minis well into Winter. Whether you wear a simple black turtleneck underneath your floral maxi dress or style a pair of jeans and a long-sleeved tee under a sheer gown, the options are truly endless if you know where to look. Ahead, you can find 34 unique ways to layer your dress if you're looking for some outfit inspo.
Need a New Fall Wardrobe Staple? Try a Striped Sweater
Striped sweaters are one of those items that are always good to have in your closet. They're cozy, practical, and remain appropriate for most seasons. We particularly love stripes because they're one of the easiest prints to wear; you can experiment with colors and patterns in a way that still feels familiar. If you're looking for a new sweater this season, bring it back to basics with a striped pick.
26 Delicate Pieces of Jewelry They'll Never Want to Take Off
Dainty jewelry is the perfect gift because it's simple yet sophisticated and oh so wearable. Whether you're partial to small necklaces, stackable rings, or dainty hoops, no fashion fan will ever say no to one of these gifts. Sometimes, simple is best, so keep reading for the ultimate stocking stuffers: jewelry.
Meghan Markle's Floral Updo Is a Royally Pleasant Surprise
Meghan Markle added a tropical twist to her traditional updo for a look that's elegant and fresh - literally. The Duchess of Sussex is usually known for her go-to messy bun, but during her 16-day tour of the South Pacific with Prince Harry, she's shown off a variety of styles, from a blown-out hairdo like her sister-in-law Kate Middleton to a rare ponytail. For the couple's latest appearance in Suva, Fiji, on Oct. 24, she chose yet another standout look.
hanks to the help of her personal hairdresser, Greg Northwood, Markle wore white and yellow flowers woven in her hair. The updo complemented her bold and beautiful ruffled dress and the garland later gifted to her during a market visit. Ahead, see Markle's look from every angle, and then check out her best hair moments as a royal so far.
Orange Hair Is Trending in Hollywood - and It's Just What the Colorist Ordered
Wilma Flintstone's calypso-orange hair may have made the bed rock back in 1960, but the fiery hue is officially setting Hollywood ablaze again nearly six decades later - both on and off the big screen.
From the soft apricot hue that Lady Gaga's character wore in A Star Is Born to Rita Ora's punchier iteration, it seems celebs can't get enough of the It color of the moment. "Orange is a natural progression from the millennial pink hair we've been seeing recently," said colorist Stephanie Brown of the Eddie Arthur Salon in NYC. "It also brings out the best in your eyes: orange makes blue and green eyes pop, while it enhances the warmth in brown."
It's true: orange - despite being impossibly difficult to rhyme - has earned its spot among the stars. You can see why (plus exactly how to pull it off) ahead.
It's True: ColourPop Concealers Are Only $3 Today
Concealers are the pick-me-ups of the beauty world - covering up the evidence of a late night and camouflaging that pimple that just won't go down. There isn't much these flesh-colored tubes can't fix, and lucky for us, ColourPop offers an ultracreamy version in 30 - yes, 30 - shades that are on sale today.
ColourPop kicked off a Buy One Get One Sale on its No Filter Matte Concealer ($6). Meaning, if you decide to pick up two tubes, you'll only pay $3 for each of them. Just enter the code "NOFILTER" at checkout for the beauty steal. The brand's concealers are full-coverage and promise to dry down for a "creaseless," soft-matte finish. It's the perfect concealer for a quick touch-up (especially when applied with a flat, flexible tip).
The catch: This deal is only available today and while supplies last, so if you want to stock up on your shade - or pick up a tube for you and a friend - you have to act fast.
Dear Santa, We NEED These 16 New Beauty Gift Sets From Nordstrom
Don't ask for just one measly product this year: put a beauty gift set on your wish list. Some especially enticing choices come out during the holidays, so we curated a list of our favorite options from Nordstrom. The department store just released an array of choices any beauty enthusiast would appreciate. Shop through these must haves, and treat a loved one (or yourself) to something new.
The 1 Do-It-All Palette I'm Traveling With This Holiday Season
As a makeup enthusiast, I find packing for even a two-night trip to be a struggle. I always attempt to stuff my cosmetics bag with my arsenal of products including my usual foundation, concealer, mascara, eyeliner, and brow pencil, but I also want the option to glam up my look with blush, highlighter, and a selection of eye shadows. Unfortunately, my colorful menagerie doesn't always fit in my bag, which is why I'm ecstatic that I've found the Beauty by POPSUGAR Naughty and Nice Palette For Eyes and Face ($38).
The silver reflective palette is smaller than my cell phone and includes six eye shadows, a gorgeous gold-champagne highlighter, and a luminous pink blush that allows me to create a holiday party or daytime look while traveling. I love that I can toss it in my purse to reapply and that it takes up virtually no space in my carry-on. I've fallen so deeply in love with the creamy formulas and pigmented powders that I'm gifting this palette to all of my busiest friends this year.
I'm Hopelessly Devoted to This New Winky Lux Palette - It Works For Both Day and Night
You could call me a palette aficionado - I'm obsessed with trying the newest releases year-round. That's why I was thrilled to check out the exclusive Winky Lux Sugar Palette. POPSUGAR collaborated with the brand to create a special release made just for our Must Have Winter subscription box - you can't get it anywhere else! I tested it out myself and was truly impressed. See the swatches for yourself.
In the spirit of POPSUGAR, all the colors are named after sweets, like Gummy Bear, Sprinkles, Sugar Cookie, Dark Chocolate, and more. As soon as I swatched them on my arm, I was impressed with the tremendous color payoff. There are metallic, satin, matte, and glitter shades. I wore the shadows all day, and they stayed on perfectly. They are also very blendable, so applying them is effortless. I didn't even have to touch up my eyes when I went out to dinner that night.
I wore the shadows all day, and they stayed on perfectly. They are also very blendable, so applying them is effortless.
What makes this palette so special is that you can create a variety of looks. Use the neutral shades for a bronzed glow, wet an angle brush and use Sprinkles for a pop of lavender, or try the dark shades for an evening smoky eye.
Besides being effective, the sparkly pink case this palette comes in is downright dazzling. It's the type of product I'll proudly display on my vanity all season long. Plus, the convenient package makes it easy to carry with you while traveling.
If you're looking for a palette that creates a variety of looks that work for both day and night, this is the winner. Try it out for yourself by subscribing to the POPSUGAR Must Have box. You'll get $300 worth of cool fashion, beauty, and home products for only $75. Sounds like a winning purchase to me.
I Toured the Hocus Pocus Filming Locations (as a Witch), and Here's What Happened
Watching Hocus Pocus marathons in October is just as much of a tradition as popping bottles of champagne on New Year's Eve. But what isn't tradition - at least for the people I grew up around in Los Angeles - is actually visiting the Hocus Pocus filming locations in Salem, MA.
That changed this year when my boyfriend, Blake, made my childhood dreams come true. He surprised me with a road trip to Salem and gave me enough time to decide if we'd go as ourselves or as a witch and a warlock. I'm an October baby, so of course we were going as the latter. We packed up our Halloween costumes and makeup and headed on a 4.5-hour trip to Salem. Here's what happened next.
These 50+ Gifts Will Have Your Man Giving You Major Heart Eyes
Men are fairly simple creatures. That is, until you have to buy them a gift. They are unclear about what they want, if they even do want anything at all. Finding something that your boyfriend likes is almost as hard as them trying to figure out why you are mad at them for leaving the toilet seat up.
So, we found the best presents that your SO will appreciate as much as he appreciates when you don't get mad at him for leaving the seat up (again). This list includes all kinds of things from drones to classic pajama sets and covers a wide range of boyfriends, from adventurous to relaxed and everything in between.
Make gift-giving a fun part of your relationship any time of year.
For Black Women Survivors, #MeToo Is Still Falling Short
What people don't know about public sexual assault survivors like myself is that, at some point, you've got to make peace before you can help anyone, and you have to come to terms with the fact that your life was spared.
It took me 10 years to tell my story. My family had never heard it, but because of the anger I felt after learning about even more R. Kelly allegations in July 2017, I decided I needed to take down my guard, rebel against my own silence, and tell my own sexual assault story in solidarity with other black women survivors.
I worked and toured as a musician for many years before I became a full time journalist, and I was assaulted while pursuing my dreams as a musician. At the time, it was clear this attack was intended as an exchange for advancing my music career. This experience shaped my adult life, much of which I've devoted to intersectional feminism - both as a survivor and an advocate for survivors. Intersectional feminism is a form a feminism that faces the systemic issues that are unique to black women, including losing partners, family, and children to mass incarceration, police brutality, and racial discrimination.
"Despite how deeply invested men, white women, and non-survivors might be, I have a special ability to connect to black women survivors like me."
So, my life has not changed very much since the #MeToo movement emerged into the international consciousness one year ago. What happened with Harvey Weinstein wasn't the least bit surprising to entertainment professionals like myself. It was frustrating to watch to watch white, wealthy starlets overshadow the black women survivors and their families who had been coming forward to fight entertainment leaders like R. Kelly and Bill Cosby for so many years beforehand. As a musician, I was a victim of the industry and was told to do many of the things the white starlets said they were asked to do, like reveal my body or lose 15 pounds in just a few weeks. I had experience in what the women of Hollywood were revealing, and although after 10 years I felt like I was alone in my story, I felt black women had been telling these stories for years and were not believed.
My reporting on many allegations that preceded #MeToo, like R. Kelly's sexual assault allegations, continued immediately after #MeToo with more context. I spoke to women of all ages and races about their survivor experiences, but I knew it was important for the work and conversation to be led by me. As a black women and survivor, I would give more depth and perspective in the work. Despite how deeply invested men, white women, and non-survivors might be, I have a special ability to connect to black women survivors like me and other stories like my own. Continuing the reporting and conversations in my work - instead of writing as if #MeToo was a new phenomenon - was something I think #MeToo founder Tarana Burke eloquently expressed in her Twitter feed on Oct. 15, 2018.
In a series of messages, she remembered waking up to "find out that the hashtag #metoo had gone viral and I didn't see any of the work I laid out over the previous decade attached to it. I thought for sure I would be erased from a thing I worked so hard to build . . ." However, Burke said, "The most interesting thing happened over the next 24 hours. I posted a video of me giving a speech about #metoo from 2014 and that went viral. And then people began to get confused - had "white hollywood" tried to steal this from a black woman?!? . . . The short answer, No. But I was definitely in danger of being erased if you all black women and our allies and friends, didn't speak up."
The short answer, No. But I was definitely in danger of being erased if YOU ALL Black women and our allies and friends, didn't speak up. But something else happened too. I watched for hours that first day as more and more stories poured out across social media from survivors. +
- Tarana (@TaranaBurke) October 15, 2018
My sentiments were very similar when the movement began, as Alyssa Milano was given credit for opening up the conversation about #MeToo, with headlines like, "A year ago, Alyssa Milano started a conversation about #MeToo", giving her sole credit while erasing the movement's true source. Burke started the conversation 10 years ago, along with thousands of black women who had been fighting against sexual assault. But once Burke's organization, which was started to advocate the safety of black women, was "unintentionally" rebranded by white women and for white women by Milano's endorsement, the movement took off and white women in Hollywood largely took the credit.
"The opportunity on the part of the wealthy women was missed to educate the public on what these women have been doing by following up and showing up in black communities and rural communities, and investing their time and money with a hands on-approach."
This was a huge problem. The resources, safe spaces, and platforms specifically created for black women survivors were transferred to wealthy white women. This left black women with less than what they initially had via Burke's decade of efforts, which can ultimately be considered erased, since no one can truly know who she impacted during her time as a community activist. At the Golden Globes, I witnessed white Hollywood starlets truly believe they were doing their part by walking side by side with renowned international women of color activists like Burke, Rosa Clemente, Ai-jen Poo, Mónica Ramírez, and Calina Lawrence, but all they did was show their glamorous version of white feminist allyship, leaving much to be desired on their stance on black women mass incarceration, workers and farmer rights, reproductive discrimination of black women, and so on.
I am glad Burke and activists took the invitation to participate in the Golden Globes and seized a moment for visibility, but that is because in their lives, their appearances were not a means to an end. They would go back to work and continue fighting sexism and misogyny as experts and leaders in their fields, and their work will continue to be incredibly important and effective, whether they receive public recognition or not. But it seemed for the starlets, the alliances were largely for show. The opportunity on the part of the wealthy women was missed to educate the public on what these women have been doing by following up and showing up in black communities and rural communities, and investing their time and money with a hands on-approach. At the very least, there was not much media attention of the starlets' community connection and efforts. The hardworking activists were expected to come to the world of the white and wealthy. The white and wealthy were not seen working to meet the people the activists truly served: the underprivileged and disenfranchised.
Of course, Weinstein should have been held accountable, but we must do more to recognize that there were and are so many systemic sexist issues - and a rape culture that lives and breeds in our own communities - far from Beverly Hills. So, one year later, as a black woman reliving her experience with #MeToo, I am convinced that the movement still has a very limited scope of what truly needs to be fixed in the United States and around the world.
mardi 23 octobre 2018
Calling All Barbies! Add These Nicki Minaj-Style Gifts to Your Wish Lists
We all know someone who is obsessed with Nicki Minaj. You know that one friend who calls themselves a Barbie and is constantly playing and singing along to all of her songs. If you've been struggling to find the perfect holiday gift for the Nicki Minaj megafan in your life, you're in luck. We've put together a shopping guide full of gifts that any Barbie would love. From sexy concert merch to quirky stickers, click through to shop 16 Nicky Minaj-inspired gifts.
The Beautiful Way Liam Neeson's Son Chose to Honor His Late Mother, Natasha Richardson
In news that will surely melt your heart, the eldest son of Liam Neeson and the late Natasha Richardson has decided to honor his mother's memory in the sweetest way possible. According to Vanessa Redgrave, his maternal grandmother, 23-year-old Micheál has decided to change his last name from Neeson to Richardson.
"He's taken, officially, the name of his mother," the Oscar-winner revealed. "He's Micheal Richardson, not Micheal Neeson."
Micheál was 13 years old when Natasha tragically died after hitting her head in a skiing accident in 2009. His younger brother Daniel, 22, is expected to keep the Neeson last name. "That wasn't because he wanted to avoid his father's fame, which is enormous," Vanessa explained. "He wanted to hold his mother close to him, because she was a remarkable actress. Absolutely remarkable."
Micheál has previously opened up about his struggles after the death of his mother. The young actor admitted to turning to drugs and alcohol to cope with the tragedy, before confronting his demons through wilderness therapy. Now that he's following in the footsteps of both his parents, this tribute to his mother is especially heartwarming.
This Girl Got High Before Her The Nun Makeup Tutorial, and I Am Weeping Real Tears
Back in September, we beheld the horrors of The Nun, aka the "darkest chapter" in The Conjuring's expanding universe. Although our nights have been plagued with nightmares ever since, we've managed to find some levity that will keep us laughing through the rest of the spooky season. Brandi TV recently attempted a glorious makeup tutorial in an effort to channel The Nun's demonic entity, Valak . . . with the help of a few edibles. The result is an extremely hilarious and entertaining video that definitely has a few speed bumps along the way, including a swallowed blood capsule, a stray hair, and some very dry skin. This is right up there with Reddit's "sexy" version of The Nun, which also has us in stitches. Good luck haunting our nightmares now, Valak.
Whoops! An American Breaks Royal Protocol by Giving Prince Harry the Biggest Bear Hug
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set sail at Sydney Harbour on the first day of the Invictus Games on Sunday, and those who joined them were certainly happy to be in royal company. While they were on a boat and talking with a few of the sailors, it was clear one American mariner was especially excited to be in the same watercraft as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. In a video posted by Kensington Palace, the sailor couldn't hold back his eagerness and gave Prince Harry a strong hug that even lifted the prince off the ground.
Technically, people aren't supposed to do that to, ya know, British royalty, but Harry and Meghan didn't seem to mind. Meghan was even cracking up, saying, "Now THAT'S a hug. Nicely done!" Even Prince Harry found the whole thing comical, but he did warn the man not to hug Meghan the same way since she's pregnant and carrying very precious cargo. Watch the hilarious interaction above, then check out more photos of the royal duo riding the waves ahead.
18 Black Panther Gifts That Will Make You Shout, "Wakanda Forever!"
If you're still obsessed with Black Panther, we don't blame you. It was one of the biggest movies of the year, so it makes sense that its merch is set to be at the top of everyone's holiday wish lists. To help you get a jump start on your holiday shopping, we've rounded up the best Black Panther-inspired gifts in stores now. From t-shirts to jewelry, phone cases, board games, and more, read through to shop all the gifts anyone who wishes they were from Wakanda would love.
The Final Few Seconds of The Prodigy's Horrifying Trailer Will Absolutely F*ck You Up
There's something wrong with Miles, and it's up to Taylor Schilling to figure it out.
The Orange Is the New Black star appears in the upcoming horror film The Prodigy as Sarah, a mother whose young son (It's Jackson Robert Scott) begins to exhibit disturbing behavior. Is he suffering from a mental disorder, or is something more sinister at work? Is it possible that an evil, supernatural force has overtaken him? As Sarah struggles with her instinct to love and protect her son while also fearing for her family's safety, she goes down a twisted rabbit hole in search of answers.
The film hits theaters on Feb. 8, and trust us when we say watch the trailer until the very end - there's a mother of a jump scare waiting for you.
Well, This Is a Bummer: Wonder Woman 2's Release Date Pushed Back to 2020
If you're one of the many superhero fans champing at the bit for the highly anticipated sequel to Warner Bros.'s Wonder Woman, then we have some good news and some bad news. The good news? The as-yet-untitled Wonder Woman 2 has an official release date! The bad news? It's extremely far away.
Back in July, the studio revealed that the sequel, which will take place during the Cold War in the '80s, wouldn't hit theaters until Dec. 13, 2019. Then Warner Bros. decided to move the date up by a month, opting for Nov. 1, 2019, instead. And then, in October 2018, ET reported that the DC Comics followup has been pushed way, way back to June 5, 2020. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster.
"We had tremendous success releasing the first Wonder Woman film during the Summer, so when we saw an opportunity to take advantage of the changing competitive landscape, we did," Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros. President of Domestic Distribution, said in a statement. "This move lands the film exactly where it belongs."
Before Warner Bros. can begin working on the sequel for Diana, the studio has to release part two of Justice League (out on June 14, 2019), as well as finish The Flash and Aquaman (the latter due out on Dec. 21, 2018). At least we have the thought of Diana reuniting with Steve Trevor to keep us going!
17 Taylor Swift Stocking Stuffers For the Dedicated Swiftie in Your Life
Chances are there's someone in your squad who is obsessed with Taylor Swift. True Swifties can not only ace this quiz, but they also love to collect Taylor-inspired merch. With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to start shopping for the best Taylor-themed gifts in stores now. From vinyl records to kitschy t-shirts, we've rounded up some fun stocking stuffers for the biggest Taylor fans in your life. Keep reading to see and shop them all now.
You Might Lose Sleep Over the Insane Conspiracy Theory That Inspired Stranger Things
Image Source: Everett Collection
With two seasons under its belt, Stranger Things is bigger than ever. It's not just that the series delivers heavy doses of nostalgia and horror in one fell swoop. The real magic of Stranger Things is that it builds a conspiracy-filled universe that's so intricate, it almost feels real. Well, here's the thing: it's actually inspired by a real-life conspiracy theory that's so wild and detailed, you'll almost want to believe it. We're not talking about Project MK-Ultra, though the Duffer brothers (who created Stranger Things) have admitted that they incorporated aspects of that conspiracy theory into the show as well. But this story is much darker, deeper, and more sinister.
We're talking about The Montauk Project. One little-known secret about Stranger Things is that it was originally titled Montauk, and it was supposed to take place in New York. For the geographically uninformed, Montauk is at the very end of Long Island. And at the very tip of Montauk is Camp Hero State Park. This is where the unbelievable story of The Montauk Project takes place.
According to a mind-blowing conspiracy theory, Camp Hero allegedly housed an underground government facility that conducted a wide range of questionable scientific experiments. While the Duffer brothers didn't lift the entire story of The Montauk Experiment for their sci-fi series, there are a handful of aspects of the show that seem to draw direct inspiration. Let's uncover the mysteries.
Image Source: Everett Collection
Portals to Other Dimensions
In order to understand The Montauk Project, you need to hear about The Philadelphia Experiment. According to the stories, the Navy was conducting experiments in 1943. The goal was to render a military vessel invisible so that enemies could not detect it by radar or other means. These experiments yielded an unexpected result: not only did they purportedly figure out how to make the ships invisible, but they also accidentally sent one ship, The Eldridge, through a portal to another dimension and another time.
This government legend was so well-known that it was adapted into a 1984 film called The Philadelphia Experiment. The trailer for the film itself rehashes the story we've just gone over: the government experiences, the invisibility, even the time travel. Here's where things connect: a man named Alfred Bielek saw the film and experienced the strangest sense of déjà vu. In a 1997 interview with a reporter named Kenneth Burke, Bielek said the film "re-stimulated memories, which were close to the surface anyway."
In 1990, Bielek made the connection between The Philadelphia Experiment and The Montauk Project during a speech at a conference in Dallas. Bielek says he and his brother were both on the ship during this experiment. He says they were teleported from 1943 to 1983 . . . and they landed at Montauk. According to Bielek, they were intercepted by a man named Dr. von Neumann, whom they had also worked with in 1943. Dr. von Neumann told Bielek that they had inadvertently created a hole in hyperspace. Bielek recounted the doctor's explanation: "this hyperspace bubble is expanding, and is going to create some very serious problems; we don't know how far it will go if it's not shut down. It could engulf part of the planet." Basically, Bielek and his brother had to destroy all the equipment on the ship to "fix" this hole in hyperspace.
Stranger Things carries tons of echoes of this story. In fact, the experiments with Eleven are the initial cause for the gate that connects the Upside Down to our reality. Eleven has essentially torn the fabric of reality in the same way The Eldridge did. Season two further carries along a similar story: it becomes clear that the Upside Down has more or less "infected" Hawkins, and it's continuing to spread. The only way to stop the Upside Down from leaking further into reality is to close the gate.
Image Source: Everett Collection
The "Gifted One"
OK, bear with me. It gets weirder. After that whole crazy 1943/1983 accident, Bielek says his brother stayed in 1983. But because of the whole fiasco, his brother began to age rapidly. A year per hour, as he describes it. The scientists were desperate to somehow keep him alive, so here was their plan: back in the past, in the same timeline, Bielek convinced his parents to have another son:
"Whether you will accept the metaphysical point of view or not, it was arranged. I was allowed to help arrange it. Because I was back in '43 and there was some transit back and forth because of Montauk, which was still on line for a period of time. To go back to the father and say, 'Hey man, get busy; we need another son, something has happened to Duncan.' So a new son, the last of the line, was born in 1951, and he from '83 was a walk-in, as a soul into the body in 1963, August 12."
So, basically, the scientists somehow transferred his brother's soul from 1983 to the body of his new brother in 1963. (Don't ask me, I can't even begin to justify the science behind this.) Anyway, this new version of Duncan demonstrated incredible psychic abilities.
How did the scientists at Camp Hero exploit these powers? They built something called "the Montauk Chair." At this point, we meet Preston Nichols, who came into the picture after Bielek's stories began to circulate on a broader scale. Nichols would go on to write his own account of The Montauk Project. According to the text, the Montauk Chair was a chair that had been enhanced with unimaginable technology: it could manifest whatever its subject was imagining. Basically, the chair would purportedly read the seated person's mind and make their thoughts a reality.
In the chair, Duncan did an experiment called "The Seeing Eye." Nichols writes: "With a lock of person's hair or other appropriate object in his hand, Duncan could concentrate on the person and be able to see as if he was seeing through their eyes, hearing through their ears, and feeling through their body. He could actually see through other people anywhere on the planet." This sounds eerily like the experiments conducted with Eleven in Hawkins Lab. If you recall, season one shows Eleven attempting to hear words spoken in other rooms.
Duncan allegedly demonstrated other abilities that sound a lot like Eleven's. Some of Duncan's powers, though, were entirely different. For instance, and this is important, Duncan could imagine objects and they would materialize elsewhere on the base. Nichols also describes how Duncan went into an "altered form of consciousness" when doing these kinds of experiments, much like Eleven is more or less incapacitated once she descends into that dark water world of hers. Nichols also claims Duncan could manipulate time and space and open dimensional portals, much like Eleven.
Image Source: Netflix
The Kidnapped Children
As we know, Eleven is, well, likely the 11th child to be a test subject at Hawkins Lab. We can therefore deduce that there were at least 10 other children involved in these experiments, maybe more. The introduction of Kali in season two basically confirms this theory. And, I mean, it's possible Chief Hopper's daughter is in the mix, too. But that's another theory for another time.
In seasons one and two, we find out that Eleven was basically abducted by the scientists, stolen right from under her mother's nose. This exact thing happened in Montauk, according to Nichols:
"But there was one kid at Montauk who would go out and get other kids and bring them to the project. He was like a 'tractor beam.' He lived in Montauk and would circulate around very effectively . . . Some kids returned home, some didn't. The kids chosen were between 10 and 16. Or maybe 18 at the oldest and nine at the youngest. Most were just about to reach puberty or had just finished it . . . we know a lot of people were shoved somewhere into the Future - maybe 200 or 300 years ahead. Estimates range from 3,000 to 10,000 people that were eventually abandoned. We have no idea for what purpose."
So, yeah. If you think it's bad that the Hawkins Lab scientists may have taken a dozen or so kids, imagine a situation in which thousands and thousands of children vanish, and some never return home. Bleak. Obviously, the experiments in Stranger Things have less to do with time travel and more to do with developing supernatural abilities. At this point, that's all we've got. Maybe we'll find out more in season three?
Image Source: Netflix
An Interdimensional Monster
Perhaps the creepiest part of Nichols's account is that of the "Beast." Finally, in 1983 (when everything came full circle and The Eldridge arrived), the crew decided to pull the plug on everything. In that moment, Duncan conjured an otherworldly creature:
"The contingency program was activated by someone approaching Duncan while he was in the chair and simply whispering 'The time is now.' At this moment, he let loose a monster from his subconscious. And the transmitter actually portrayed a hairy monster. It was big, hairy, hungry and nasty. But it didn't appear underground in the null point. It showed up somewhere on the base. It would eat anything it could find. And it smashed everything in sight. Several different people saw it, but almost everyone described a different beast. It was either 9 feet tall or 30 feet tall depending on who saw it. I personally believe it was about nine or 10 feet in height. Fright does strange things to people, and no one was sure of what the exact physical constitution of this monster was. No one was in any frame of mind to calmly and collectively analyze its exact nature."
According to Nichols, there was really only one way to defeat the monster. They destroyed all of the Montauk Chair equipment, and once everything was shut down, it vanished into thin air. It's pretty wild to see the connections: Duncan basically created the monster in The Montauk Project, and Eleven is the one who unleashes the demogorgon unto our reality in the tiny town of Hawkins.
Of course, there isn't really any evidence to support anything pertaining to The Philadelphia Experiment or The Montauk Project. Then again, it's not really a matter of whether or not the accounts are true, anyway. The fact is, this entangled conspiracy mystery is a fascinating and riveting story. It's hard to ignore the parallels between that and the wonder of Stranger Things.
After 15 Seasons of Grey's Anatomy, Shonda Rhimes Only Regrets Killing 1 Character
Over the course of 15 traumatic seasons of Grey's Anatomy, creator Shonda Rhimes has killed off a ton of characters. Lexie Gray? Dead. Mark Sloan? Dead. Denny Duquette? Dead. Derek Sheperd? I still can't talk about it, you guys.
You'd think that after dramatically cutting short so many beloved, fictional lives, Rhimes might want to bring a few of them back from the dead. However, the showrunner has just one regret about killing off a character, and it's pretty surprising. Rather than reviving one of the major players, Rhimes told Entertainment Weekly in April that the person she really didn't want to see go was actually one of the many high-profile guest stars on the medical drama: Dylan Young.
The ill-fated bomb squad leader appears in season two episodes "It's the End of the World" and "As We Know It," and is played by the internet's fantasy husband, Kyle Chandler. Chandler had yet to steal hearts as Coach Taylor in Friday Night Lights when the episode aired in 2006, but even so, both Rhimes and the cast knew he had big things ahead of him. "I remember thinking Kyle Chandler was amazing," Ellen Pompeo, who plays Meredith, revealed. "I wasn't surprised his career really took off after that because he was so natural."
Rhimes further explained that although the character was always supposed to die, she wavered once she got to know Chandler. "He would pitch me ideas on how Dylan, his character, could maybe not explode, and I would show him the line in the script that said, 'Dylan explodes,'" she said. "That's literally all it said. He was written to explode. But I did not expect to have Kyle Chandler. I didn't want to explode him." The revelation echoes what she said back in 2013, when she told The Hollywood Reporter that Dylan is the one character she wouldn't have written out if she could go back in time.
As we're all heartbreakingly aware, Dylan does explode into pink mist after Meredith successfully hands over the bomb she removed from a patient's chest cavity. I'm tearing up just thinking about it.
Although his exit from Grey's is still one of the most upsetting, I guess now we know why he later reappears as one of Meredith's hallucinations. Rhimes just couldn't get enough of him (and she's definitely not alone).
18 Sexy, Spooky, and Silly Halloween Date Ideas
Ghouls, goblins, witches, and ghosts, get ready - Halloween is on the horizon. And while the frightful night is fun for families and friends, it can also make a hauntingly romantic holiday for couples. There are a number of ways to enjoy Oct. 31 with a significant other, whether you're looking for something a little bit goofy, something sexy, or something so scary it'll send you running into each other's arms. Check out these 18 Halloween date-night ideas now!
These Are the 30+ Hottest iPhone XS Cases You Need to Be Shopping
The newest additions to the Apple iPhone family are here, and the iPhone XS sure is pretty! If you've decided to go for the iPhone XS Max's little sister, keeping your new device protected from day-to-day wear and tear with a case is step number one. But the great news about styling your iPhone XS: iPhone X cases can also fit the new model. So, your phone case options are through the roof!
There are some incredibly cute, chic, and stylish cases out there, and there's guaranteed to be something for everyone. To make the search easier for you, we rounded up our favorite iPhone XS cases on the market right now. Shop them ahead!
4 Astonishingly Simple Secrets to a Happy Relationship
We can find happiness in all kinds of places, but there's perhaps nothing as special as being truly elated in the relationship with your significant other. Here we're breaking down the most important secrets to a happy partnership, according to studies that know what they're talking about. You might have heard some of these tips before, but it's time you get concrete examples of how to carry them out. Because no matter if you just got together or you've been married for five years, everyone could use a little guidance.
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