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 11 novembre 2018
A Doctor Says This 1 Thing Is More Important Than How You Train If You're Trying to Lose Fat
A quick search will show you that there are many ways to begin losing body fat and becoming healthier. Some say it's doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT), some say it's cardio, and others say it's implementing a calorie deficit - you get our point. While exercise like strength training has proved to help you lose fat and get into shape, you may not see progress if you're slacking in the nutrition department.
According to Holly Lofton, MD, director of the medical weight management program at NYU Langone, "The nutrition is paramount to the exercise." She explained that when you work out, your body burns glycogen (the stored form of carbohydrates) first because this is the quickest form of energy. Once the glycogen has been burned, your body will then begin to access your fat stores.
But there's a catch: Dr. Lofton explained that someone who is overweight and has large glycogen stores will have a hard time burning fat because their body hasn't burned off all of the glycogen. "It's hard for this person to lose weight without a significant dietary change, and that's going to be by cutting carbohydrates," she said.
This doesn't mean that you should skip out on working out. "It's about being well-rounded in both aspects," Dr. Lofton said. Because nobody is the same, we recommend speaking to an expert such as Dr. Lofton to determine a macronutrient profile (carbohydrates, fats, and protein) that fits your needs.
The Truth and Nothing but the Truth: Which Cardio Machine Is the Best For Weight Loss?
To answer the question of which cardio machine is the best for weight loss, I'm going to train you all to be lawyers (and for a lot less time and money than you would spend for law school). The answer to this, and almost all legal questions is, "it all depends." This is a universally true and a universally frustrating answer. But as with many things in law and life, the answer is mostly subjective. Sure there are the heavy hitters like treadmills, rowers, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. But the key is, which of these will you use? Regularly. And push yourself on? A machine is only as valuable as you make it.
If you get on a treadmill and get bored after five minutes (e.g. yours truly), it will not be the weight-loss machine of your dreams. But if you spend treadmill time willingly and find variety through things like hill, interval, and run/walk workouts, it may be the ticket to burning the calories you need to achieve the weight loss you want. Walking and running burn up to 400 and 600 calories an hour respectively. But those calories won't burn if you don't hop on, or if you use your home treadmill as a clothing rack.
Rowers are total-body cardio machines and can really boost your fat-burning potential. Unlike the treadmill that you turn on and start moving, there is a little bit of technique to a rower. Once you get that down, you can do any combination of power and endurance work to get your heart rate up and your energy consumption rolling. Most gyms have a rower available, and they are available for in-home use too (stand them upright after using and they take up less room than a treadmill or elliptical - bonus!). If you've never used one before, have someone demonstrate (or watch a video online), and give it a try. Trying something unexpected may increase its appeal as a workout tool, and you'll want to do it more often because of that. And if you really get going, you can burn over 800 calories an hour. Bear in mind that an hour is a long time rowing with your entire body, so plan accordingly.
Ellipticals are a standard gym resource for a reason. They are low impact and produce good calorie expenditure. Because it is only indirectly weight bearing, unlike the treadmill, the demand on your body can be less. And we need an energy deficit in order to trigger the body to seek sources in the body, specifically fat cells. You can burn over 600 calories an hour on an elliptical if your effort is sufficient. If you are easily distracted by a screen and your favorite show, don't have them on during your workout. You need to focus to ensure your intensity doesn't waver. That will be the key to your long-term weight goals.
Indoor cycles are great fitness tools and, like ellipitcals, are low impact and easy to adjust to individual users. If you don't like classes, most gyms provide a few stand-alone cycles, or you can join an online service and do the workouts from home with your own equipment. Cycling can utilize over 600 calories an hour, depending on your power output. Most of us learned to ride a bike when we were kids, and there can be a childlike joy to getting back on a bike, if you have the right combination of direction and music. There is some physical adjustment time required (the "saddle sore" issue is real, but it does go away), but otherwise, it is a lifetime exercise for almost anyone.
The problem with answering "which is the best machine" is that your answer is going to be different than mine, based on our levels of fitness, our experience with different modalities, and the appeal of the actual work. You may be a treadmill junkie, and I may consider it a torture device. I may live for cycle class, and you can't get over being sore in your undercarriage. You may look forward to your checkout time on the elliptical with the evening news, and I may look longingly at a rower and pretend that I'm heading to a new life in Fiji. All of these are valid and right.
As much as a definitive answer might make someone feel better about what they are doing, only your experience and your ability to achieve the goals you are setting will tell you if this is the right machine for you. If you have hit a plateau, try adding in a different machine for some cross-training. You don't have to break up with your favorite, but swipe right on something else once in a while. Your body and weight-loss journey will appreciate it! Case dismissed!
Get Off the Treadmill! This 30-Minute Gym Sesh Actually Sculpts Your Butt
The treadmill is great and all, but if you really want to work that booty, the incline isn't gonna cut it. Let's maximize your gym time AND your backside with this 28-minute StairMaster routine from a personal trainer at Crunch Gym in San Francisco, Shannon McCourt. She created the "StairMaster Fat-Burning and Booty-Building Workout" just for you.
Repeat this circuit four times for a total of 28 minutes, taking a brief rest or sip of water between each set. Check out the video (below the workout instructions) to see Shannon show you how it's done. Side note: Shannon reminds you to "keep the weight in your heels!" to balance your body when you do any reverse steps on the StairMaster.
| Time | Speed | Move |
|---|---|---|
| 0:00-1:00 | 5-10 | Forward standard steps |
| 1:00-2:00 | 5-10 | Left-side cross steps |
| 2:00-3:00 | 5-10 | Right-side cross steps |
| 3:00-4:00 | 5-10 | Reverse steps |
| 4:00-5:00 | 1-3 | Skip a step with glute kickback |
| 5:00-6:00 | 1-3 | Left-side step with leg raise |
| 6:00-7:00 | 1-3 | Right-side step with leg raise |
Studies Show You Only Need to Exercise This Many Minutes a Day For Better Health
We've been conditioned to think if we can't get a solid 30-minute workout in a day, it's a waste of our time, and this is especially true from former athletes who spent hours exercising per day in their youth. What can 15 minutes a day really do? The answer is a lot.
A small study by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center showed that a group of 464 women who walked 72 minutes a week for six months had improved heart health and fitness. Seventy-two minutes in a week is just over 10 minutes in a day - that's it! The women who were picked for the study were all considered overweight or obese and did not exercise prior to their participation.
In addition to this study's findings, it's important to note that just 10-15 minutes of strength training or cardiovascular exercise can burn 100 calories or more depending on intensity. One-hundred extra calories a day is approximately one pound a month, or 12 pounds a year, you're keeping off your body.
Don't forget you also burn calories after you're done working out. We all know you burn calories while you exercise, but you also burn a fair amount of calories recovering from exercise. In fact, your metabolism can be elevated from 24 to 72 hours after a workout. This mostly occurs when you complete interval or high-intensity exercise. The higher your heart rate during exercise (even small bursts of elevated heart rate), the more it helps with the "after burn" of additional calories. By exercising more frequently, you keep your metabolic rate constantly elevated, making it easier to stay in a healthy BMI range.
Another thing to note is frequent short workouts may lessen injury risk. Trained athletes may be able to handle two-hour runs or bike rides, but the average person is going to face extreme muscle soreness and fatigue if they extend their workouts too long. Fatigued muscles are more prone to acute and chronic injuries. Injuries and soreness are listed among the top factors for people who don't exercise. By building in frequent short workouts, you may lower your injury risk and raise your chances of getting into a consistent workout schedule.
Wait, These White Elephant Gifts Are All Under $10? BRB - I'm Buying 2 of Each
White elephant gifts should be quirky, funny, and most definitely cost-efficient. Since this kind of gift-giving is more about fun over function, it only makes sense to spend your money sparingly.
Check out this list of white elephant gifts that are all under 10 bucks! Save your money for the big gifts, but we will warn you: you might want to buy multiple of these gifts because they are so ridiculously awesome.
How to Have the Ultimate Harry Potter Day at Universal Orlando
Whether you're a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, there's something for everyone at Universal Orlando Resort's The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There are attractions like the Hogwarts Express and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which immerse you right into Harry's world. The dining options will make you feel like you've stepped right into the pages of J.K. Rowling's beloved books. Don't forget your wand and meet us at Platform 9 3/4 for the ultimate Harry Potter day at Universal Orlando.
25 Hacks to Get You Through the Holidays in 1 Piece
It's the most wonderful time of the year, so don't let the stress of anticipation and planning get the best of you. We've rounded up the 25 most life-changing hacks to get you through the holiday season. From wrapping tricks to apps that organize gift lists, these tips will surely bring you holiday joy by saving you time, money, and unnecessary tasks.
50+ White Elephant Gifts That Will Make You Sprint to the Nearest Walmart ASAP
White elephant gifts include all things quirky, all things weird, and all things you would secretly love to get for yourself, but absolutely never would.
So, where do you find the perfect gift that is fun, funny, and not too expensive? Well, wouldn't you know it, but Walmart has got all the goods. These gifts are white elephant-approved and are all under 50 bucks.
Don't mind us, we're just jingling all the way to Walmart.
If You Need a Holiday Hostess Gift, Look No Further
Here's the thing; a cookbook is just about the ideal holiday gift, and here's why. It's a perfect hostess gift because it's thoughtful and isn't the classic food or alcohol, plus it can arrive in two days thanks to Amazon Prime. Alternatively, if you're gifting someone who genuinely loves to cook, they'll be excited to try out some new recipes, maybe from some of their favorite chefs or celebrities.
Urban Outfitters Is Selling the Cutest Cable Bites, and I Just Bought All 19 of Them
As if we weren't already completely obsessed with Urban Outfitters, the brand just gave us another reason to love it. The animal cable bites it's selling are so cute, we want to adopt them all.
Trendy tech accessories are always fun gifts, and these $6 trinkets are too affordable and adorable not to buy for stocking stuffers, white elephant gifts, and maybe as a personal treat. Not to mention, they serve a totally functional purpose: preventing cable breakage. Amazing, right? See all the animals you can choose from ahead!
If you need us, we will be at the nearest Urban.
FYI, Holiday Shoppers: College Girls Desperately Want All of These Fun Gifts This Year
College students love coming home because they get completely spoiled by home-cooked meals and people who do their laundry for them, not to mention all the time that they can finally catch up on some much-needed sleep. As far as coming home for the holidays go, this is one of the few times of the year that these students can finally get exactly what they need for the upcoming semester. Make sure you give the undergrad on your list the perfect present this year to fully prepare them for the rest of the school year ahead.
From empowering pens to chic backpacks and even yummy "Brain Butter," these gifts address all the needs of the college gal you're shopping for. Oh, and they are all less than $75!
Centering My Holiday Celebrations Around This 1 Thing Has Made All the Difference
I'm not a fan of the New York City cold and what the streets look like the day after it has snowed, but I do love the warmth you feel in the air when you walk past a holiday market selling hot cider. Or how the city that's always rushing to get from one place to another suddenly moves slower - thousands of people crowding around Rockefeller Center, the holiday window displays at Macy's, the carols that play in every store you walk into, and the abundance of holiday decorations.
Whenever I remember what the holidays were like growing up, I can't help but think about turkey, ponche, Santa Claus, grapes, 12 wishes, and getting to stay up past my bedtime on Christmas and New Year's Eve. We had numerous calendars with Xs crossing out the days until the next holiday, and we made constant trips to stores, adding new decorations to the house every week. And while I still look forward to doing all those things, over the years, I've spent less time thinking about what I'd be receiving and more about who I'd be spending those days with.
Over the years, I've spent less time thinking about what I'd be receiving and more about who I'd be spending those days with.
After losing an uncle and my grandmother during the same holiday season a few years back, I've learned to spend more time being thankful for what the year has brought me and to be more appreciative of the stories that my parents and relatives like to tell during our holiday parties. Each year, I learn something new about a family member, which has helped me learn more about myself, too. I've learned to give without expecting anything in return, that a little help to those in need goes a long way, and that baking with love makes all the difference.
I've also shifted my focus to charitable work, checking my privilege and using my free time to volunteer at homeless shelters and thrift stores with a mission, like Housing Works, and playing Santa Claus by participating in programs that send new toys to kids in need.
Now that I have a daughter, starting new traditions and continuing old ones is my main priority. I have nothing but good holiday memories, and I want the same for my daughter. Thankfully, she loves the holidays as much as I do and asks to go apple and pumpkin picking, helps me mix ingredients when I bake, puts up decorations with me, and tries to wrap presents on her own. Although, we're still working on getting that perfect picture with Santa.
As she continues to grow, I'd like for our holiday season to continue being centered on empathy. To know that we have the option of choosing not to focus on material things is a huge privilege, and it's one we have to appreciate and honor by doing good for others. Of course, it isn't enough to do good during the holidays, but hopefully the good one does builds enough momentum to find them doing good deeds well into the new year.
Attention, Pet-Lovers: These Gifts Are Perfect For the Paw-lidays
Happy paw-lidays, howl-idays, and everything in between to all the pet-loving people out there! The holiday season is just another great reason to shower the four-legged friends in your life with treats, toys, and top-notch goodies.
The pet-lover on your holiday list needs something that will double as a present for them and their furry family member, and these presents do just that. With everything from personalized pet portraits to hats specially for cats, we have something for everyone to enjoy.
Happy shopping, Santa Paws!
Attention, Snow Shredders: Hit the Slopes at the Top Ski Destinations Trending This Winter
Bring on the twinkling lights, festive music, and just about anything pumpkin flavored. The arrival of the holiday season usually delivers frosty temperatures along with it, and you know what that means, adventure-seeking travelers. It's nearly time to bust out the ski gear and hit the slopes! To help you decide which mountain to conquer this Winter season, we're bringing you the top trending ski destinations for the 2018 holiday season and into the new year, according to data from travel search engine Kayak. Fresh powder, here we come!
This Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup Is Everything You Love About Fall in 1 Recipe
Fall soups can be so satisfying for weeknight dinners and so impressive at holiday gatherings. This recipe for butternut squash soup made in an Instant Pot will impress everyone seated around your table. The best part? It's just a handful of ingredients and will be ready in 30 minutes or less depending on your chopping speed. You'll want to select a smaller squash at the market for this recipe, and I highly recommend some toasted baguette or country bread for dipping.
As an added bonus, this delicious soup itself just happens to be gluten-free (depending on the broth you use, of course) and dairy-free, and it can be made vegan (again, depending on the broth), so it's a good dish to have on hand if you're having guests over who might have restrictions. Here are all the steps to make it.
Just 22 Dreamy Home Gifts Literally Anyone Will Appreciate
Turning your home into your sanctuary just got that much easier. As much as we love scouting the latest fashion gifts or finding cool stocking stuffers, home gifts are the ones we end up actually using the most frequently. Besides being practical, they're so fun to shop for; think adorable throw pillows, essential kitchen gadgets, and a wine holder for the bathtub. This holiday season, you have our go-ahead to stay home.
40 Things You've Been Doing Wrong All Your Life
You were probably happily chugging along in your daily routine until you came across this slideshow. You'll soon realize after reading through that there are many things you've been doing wrong without knowing. Get ready to have your world turned upside down.
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
12 Beautiful Holiday Wreaths No One Will Ever Guess You Bought on Amazon
If you're on the hunt for a pretty wreath to display in your home this year, we did the hard work for you and shopped the best picks on Amazon. From LED light-up choices to pieces you can make on your own, we found it all. The best part: they're all delivered right to your doorstep. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
These Plants From Amazon Could Help You Sleep Better - So What Are You Waiting For?
Many of us are always on the lookout for ways to get better sleep, from ambient noise to cozy pajamas, high-quality linens, the perfect sleep mask, and everything in between. But did you know that the key to a good night's sleep might be as simple as better indoor air quality and soothing scents? Having cleaner air in our homes, especially in our bedrooms, means higher levels of oxygen and could help you get the rest of you've been searching for. When it comes to purifying the air in your home, plants are a great natural option that look beautiful and carry soothing aromas. And since they're available on Amazon, you won't have to spend hours searching!
26 Incredible Stocking Stuffers For $1 or Less
The season of giving is upon us! Between buying all sorts of presents for family and friends, you don't want to break the bank when it comes to stocking stuffers. Luckily for you, we found some amazing options that are only $1 or less - we're not kidding. Take a look at these fun little gifts that will cost you next to nothing.
9 Unique Fall Festivals Around the World
Fall may be about harvests and pumpkin spice everything, but there's a whole lot more going on that is worth checking out. There are also festivals around the world that you should add to your bucket list. Some of them are in far-reaching corners of the globe, so they may just be an excuse to plan a trip!
samedi 10 novembre 2018
Sorry If We're Distracted, but We Can't Stop Thinking About Jennifer Lopez's Abs in Her New Video
After much anticipation, Jennifer Lopez finally dropped her new single, "Te Gusto," with Bad Bunny on Thursday, and boy, was it worth the wait. Not only do we get to hear Lopez sing in Spanish again, but in the accompanying music video, the 49-year-old shows off her incredible abs and famous curves in a tiny yellow bikini. Abs. Bikini. J Lo. Need we say more? Grab a cold towel and watch the video now.
These Are the Best Diaper Bags You Can Get Your Hands on For 2019
Whether you're expecting your first baby or are looking to upgrade your worn-out over-the-shoulder bag, shopping for a diaper bag takes some time. There are a few things to think about: the size, how you'll carry it, and how much space you actually need. Some parents opt to carry just the essentials in small travel-sized zips that can be tossed into everyday purses, and others want something big where they can house everything they could possibly need. Whatever camp you fall into, here are the leading diaper bags for the year.
21 Things That Inevitably Happen When You Travel With Kids During the Holidays
My family usually hits the road for the holidays, heading to the beach with my extended family for a vacation that only in the last year (when my son was almost 4 and my daughter was almost 7) began to feel like one. Before that, it was a stressful trip that took so much time and energy to execute that if it wasn't for that alluring Florida sunshine, I might not have gone.
Between buying and wrapping gifts early so I could ship them to our destination in time for Santa's arrival to renting baby supplies we couldn't fit in our suitcases to throwing our rules about screen time and sugar consumption out the window, traveling with kids for the holidays is a jolly sh*tshow. But hey, the holidays are all about togetherness, right? And nothing brings more togetherness than being stuck in a tiny condo for a week (or even better, a car for an eight-hour-plus drive) with your toddlers. If you're planning a trip with your kids over the holidays - to Grandma's house or somewhere more exotic - here are 21 things you need to prepare yourself for.
The Best DIY Gifts to Make For Kids
Store shelves are lined with shiny gifts that kids can't wait to see making their way into your home, but is there anything more cherished than a gift made by Mom and Dad (or their grandparents or aunts and uncles)? We think not!
Making a gift or two for your children this holiday is not only a way to show you care but also a great way to teach tots the value of handmade gifts. To get some handmade inspiration, check out these 24 ideas, some of which are included in this round-up of DIY gifts for everyone.
22 Advent Calendars For the Whole Family - Some Even Have Wine!
When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck during the holiday season, it's hard to beat the practicality of an Advent calendar. It's a single item that you buy once yet get to open for anywhere from 12 to 24 days. Plus, you can set it out as decor, making all of December fun, as opposed to just specific days of the month. Whether you want to fill one yourself for the little ones or are hoping to unwrap decadent sweets - or even wine - for yourself, here are the top 22 options for the year. Star Wars included, of course.
Hilary Duff Admitted She Drank Her Placenta in Smoothie Form and Said It Was "Delightful"
Ever since Hilary Duff and boyfriend Matthew Koma welcomed a baby girl on Oct. 25, we've been lucky enough to get some glimpses of Banks Violet Bair on Instagram, but now, the actress is opening up about life with a newborn, and more specifically, what she's been doing with her placenta. Just 10 days after her drug-free water birth, the actress appeared on the Informed Pregnancy podcast, where she said that she drank her placenta in a smoothie.
"It was the most delightful smoothie I've ever had," Hilary told the host. "I haven't had a smoothie that delightful since I was 10. It was calorie-filled with juice and fruit and everything delicious." And since she couldn't drink the whole placenta in one smoothie, she's been drinking the rest of it in the form of ice cubes to avoid taking the pills.
This Is What the Holidays Are Like When Your Partner Works Crazy Hours
When I was growing up, I was lucky enough that my whole family was together on holidays. We celebrated with my mom, dad, brothers, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. I always envisioned doing the same for my children when I became a mom. And while our growing family does partake in all kinds of fun holiday traditions every year, it's become our norm that one person is almost always absent.
My husband has a shift work job, so we rarely spend a lot of time together as a family during regular months, but during the holidays, the overtime shifts and extra jobs offer a very enticing paycheck he understandably has difficulty turning down. It's never easy for him to miss out on seeing our daughter's face light up when we have breakfast with Santa or miss our toddler's squeals of delight at a lit up Christmas tree, but we make the holidays work for us, whether that means celebrating without him or celebrating on a different day.
As difficult as it can be for me to explain to two little faces looking up at me and wondering why daddy's not there, it's just as hard for him to be at work knowing they're missing him.
I've continued the traditions we did when I was a child, like spending time with extended family on Thanksgiving, taking the kids to see Santa, picking the perfect Christmas tree, and baking cookies, but I've learned to just plan things as though my husband won't be around for them, then if he happens to be home for one or a few, it's that much better! I can't say I don't care when he's not there, but that's just life for us, and I make the best of it for myself and our kids. And when he is around for those moments, we put even more focus and appreciation on being together.
The biggest thing we had to get used to during the holidays was learning how to prioritize those traditions. Everyone's calendars fill up quickly, so we ask ourselves things like, "Which events does he really want to be a part of and which ones is he OK (and will the kids be OK with him) skipping?" At the top of our list is getting our Christmas tree with my brother and his family, which my husband and I have done since well before we were married with children. It's our favorite holiday tradition, so we always try to make it work. It's been really fun watching our families grow from two couples to two pair of moms and dads with four kids between us. It's memories like these where we can slow down and spend quality time together that make the holiday hustle worthwhile.
Then there's things like holiday crafts, breakfast with Santa, and cookie baking and decorating. While my husband would obviously enjoy seeing the kids dip their hands and feet in paint to create a holiday-themed work of art or watch them go nuts spreading far too much frosting on sugar cookies, he's content with pictures and videos. And the kids are usually focused enough to not really miss his presence. Sometimes we get our Christmas tree and it sits bare in the living room for days before we can all decorate together, and sometimes he sets it up and goes to sleep before his next shift and we decorate without him. When we go to church on Christmas Eve and have dinner with our extended family, there's an obvious hole at our table if he's working. We just try to take it one memory-making moment at a time.
One Christmas, he was working overnight and was scheduled to come home Christmas morning. He didn't want to miss seeing our daughter come down the stairs to her presents under the tree, but she wakes up before he gets home. So, I kept her in my room reading Christmas books and painting her nails until he came through the front door, and we all went downstairs together. This year, he'll come home Thanksgiving morning and need to go to sleep while our house fills with family and I entertain and prep our meal. But he'll wake up and enjoy turkey with us before heading back to work, so everybody wins.
It just takes a little tweaking and understanding on both our parts. As difficult as it can be for me to explain to two little faces looking up at me and wondering why daddy's not there, it's just as hard for him to be at work knowing they're missing him. We've become very good at working together to communicate our feelings. If there's an event I really want him to be at with us, I need to tell him it's important to me and not brush it off like it doesn't matter. Not being honest about my expectations or desires would leave me feeling resentful and him feeling confused about why I'm upset. And this is where our village comes in, too. We make plans with friends and other family members to ensure we're getting the most out of every moment with or without daddy. I have a network of friends whose husbands also work crazy hours, and it's extremely helpful and heartwarming knowing we are here for one another.
While I sit and go over dates and events for the holiday season wondering which my husband might be able to attend, it's not far from my mind that some parents do this alone all the time. Some children's parents are overseas, some have to split their time between two houses, and some may have lost a parent. So, during the holiday season especially, we make sure to count our blessings and remain thankful for what we do have. If we celebrate Thanksgiving on the last Wednesday of the month or Christmas a few days late, who cares? We still have each other.
The 6 Movies Coming Out in Theaters This Fall That You Need to See With Your Kids
We know that the holiday season kind of has the trademark on "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year," but we'd argue that as soon as Fall officially hits is when that time truly begins. From getting your freedom once the kids go back to school to Halloween fun and prepping for the holidays, Autumn is the time to get cozy, celebrate allllll of the best holidays, and settle into the seats at your local movie theater to see the newest flicks.
This Fall's movie lineup packs a serious punch, so pencil in the release dates for the following six movies on your calendars - and check out the trailers with your kids while you wait!
The Hardest Thing About Having Your Last Baby
When you're sure you're done having babies, when you know you couldn't possibly handle another child, when you finally feel confident you've brought your last newborn home, there's a feeling - something you can't explain until you get there. It's not that you'll really miss having a newborn, because that sh*t is hard. The cracked nipples, the postpartum bleeding, the all-night feedings, the confusion of nap schedules and bottle feedings as they get older, the cleaning up of high chairs and spit up, the diapers - it's certainly not all that.
I'll always miss that chapter, even if I've never been happier to give away rockaroos and bumbos.
It's that you'll never again be anticipating the arrival of a little human you can't wait to meet. That you'll never announce your baby's birth or introduce them by name for the very first time. That you'll never have that special quiet of a sleeping newborn in the house. That you'll never again be home in your pajamas wrapped up all day in your brand new little family.
That's what's hard about being done for me. That I've come to the end of a chapter that has included some of the most precious moments in life. The ones you get teary-eyed just thinking about. The ones you're nostalgic for minutes after they happen. The ones you try desperately to hold onto through pictures and videos.
It's the end of a chapter that has all the best parts highlighted. The sweetness of a new baby, the tenderness of an emotional mom, the excitement of an older sibling. The way visitors whisper when they come over bearing food or flowers. The way friends and family check in, send cards, and offer help. The way you've never loved your partner more than when you see them look into your baby's eyes. The way watching them swaddle those tiny little arms and legs is enough to make your heart burst.
I'll always miss that chapter, even if I've never been happier to give away rockaroos and bumbos. To be done buying diapers. To go all day without worrying about nap schedules or feeding times. To watch them play in their first soccer game and learn to read. To overhear their make-believe conversations and witness them say sorry without being prompted. To watch them grow.
But I'll always, always, look back so fondly on those sweet days. The ones that were beautiful even though they were hard. The ones that you may not remember the details of, but you'll never forget the feeling of.
There's an Adults-Only Advent Calendar That Gives You a Glass of Wine Per Day - Sign Us Up!
There's something wholesomely nostalgic about opening up each window of your run-of-the-mill Advent calendar. And while we don't deny that getting a piece of chocolate each and every day is something we look forward to, there's a new adults-only, booze-filled Advent calendar in town that we think even the Grinch could get behind.
The brand-new Wine Lovers' Advent Calendar ($130) from Laithwaite's is pretty much a stressed-out mom's dream. It comes packed with 24 mini bottles - aka 187 ml each - of wine or champagne, so you can enjoy a glass every day until Christmas. Another thing to look forward to? The element of surprise. According to the website, thirsty mamas can open each window to find top-notch sips, like a five-star estate Rioja, a double-gold Champagne, or a 2015 vintage Bordeaux.
We're beyond exited for mommy wine time. And pro tip: make sure you order your calendar by Nov. 17 so you have plenty of time for it to ship. After all, no one likes starting an Advent calendar late, right?
Target Is Now Selling Cheap Weighted Blankets So We Can Calm the F*ck Down Before Shopping
If you have family members who struggle with anxiety, then you're probably well aware that, depending on what triggers them, it can feel particularly challenging during the evenings. There are a number of ways we can all work to reduce our anxiety, and in addition to behavioral changes, things like weighted blankets have been shown to help. For starters, they can reduce stress, increase levels of oxytocin in the brain, and even help people with sensory processing disorders feel more relaxed.
And while we all want the family to get the best night's sleep, the weighted blankets on the market have been a little pricey. Now, Target is selling a more affordable version - the Tranquility Weighted Blanket ($70) - and we're definitely going to need one.
The Tranquility Weighted Blanket comes in two weights (12 or 18 pounds) and two colors (gray and ivory). While this product can be used by anyone in the family, it's important to ensure the weight is appropriate if you're going to use it for your older kids (experts suggest the blankets should roughly weigh about 10 percent of your bodyweight). Scroll through to get a look at this life-changing product.
My Son Is Adopted, and Yes, I Am His Real Mother
My son has been told something about me far too many times in his life - something that's been said to adopted children for as long as I can remember: that I'm not his "real" mom. One day when he was in first grade, he cried all the way home from school after hearing it. I tried not to get too annoyed, reminding myself that most kids aren't intentionally being cruel. They just don't know any better.
Those children are 100 percent ours. My son is 100 percent mine.
Asking someone who is adopted about their "real" parents, or saying the parents they have aren't their "real" ones, might be an easy way to explain adoption, but it's not at all accurate. Adoptive parents are that child's real parents, no matter which way you look at it. We're the ones kissing away pains from bumps and bruises, cheering them on at sporting events, scheduling doctor appointments, changing diapers, cleaning up vomit, and showering them with more hugs and kisses than they care to get. Those are things "real" parents do, and those children are 100 percent ours. My son is 100 percent mine.
Most of the time, adopted children hear those types of comments from other kids. My son has heard it from neighbors, kids at school, and even his own cousins. And since kids usually repeat things they hear or are told, every parent in general needs to help educate their little ones that just because a child doesn't come from his mother's belly doesn't make them any less her child. Families are formed in all sorts of ways, and no way is better or more valid than the other.
Many adopted children are also already insecure about their status in the home. Some, like mine, were adopted out of the foster care system, so they're even more acutely sensitive to the family dynamic. My son always thought I was going to leave him or give him back, so hearing that I was not his "real mom" was especially distressing for him. At 14, he can now brush it off as a minor annoyance, but I still hope he never hears it again.
Adoption simply means that a child has had more than one set of parents, and that all of those parents are real. I didn't give birth to my son, but I am his mother. I am real.
The 10 Most Entertaining Board Games You Can Play With the Whole Family
The next time you're gathered with your family, rather than sitting down on the couch and looking for a good holiday Netflix movie to stream, pull out an engaging board game instead. If all that's sitting in your drawer right now is an incomplete deck of cards, now is the time to upgrade. Whether you'll be playing with toddlers or teenagers, here are the 10 most popular family-friendly board games.
I'll Never Make My Family Pose For Holiday Portraits - Here's Why
I'm all for beloved holiday traditions, but one thing I've never been into? Holiday family portraits. While they've always been around, they seem to have gained even more popularity in recent years, especially with social media. Whenever I scroll through my Instagram or Facebook feeds once the weather gets cold, I begin to see the professional snapshots, one more elaborate than the last. Everyone is dressed alike (sometimes in matching pajamas), siblings wear ugly holiday sweaters, and every single person flashes a picturesque smile. If you're one of those moms who can rally the family to do this, I truly applaud you, but I can't and won't.
To me, staged and professional family photos - especially around the holidays - aren't very memorable. I prefer candid, messy, and even blurry photos from our time together during the festive months. In professional portraits, everyone looks their best, is perfectly posing against a nice backdrop, and is told to smile and say cheese. I know that if that was my family, I wouldn't stumble upon those a few years later and think, "That was such a magical day." But the few photos I manage to capture of my kids making snow angels before I almost drop my phone in the snow? I'll cherish those forever.
Snapping pictures throughout the holidays is an important pastime in my family. Not only can I look back at old ones from my own childhood, but I love creating new ones with my kids, too. Someone is always snapping away in our house, and after a hectic day of being with family, I love looking at all the captured memories. It's an amazing reminder that there are magical moments happening all around me, even if I can't see them at the time. It also reminds me what's really important: family and being together. All of the energy I put into planning, organizing, and hosting is so worth it, and these photographs are proof.
Not doing holiday family portraits also takes the pressure off me. It's one less thing I have to organize, and I don't have to worry about painting a perfect family image that isn't realistic. We're loud, disheveled, and it's extremely hard to get my kids to smile at the same time, but that's exactly how I like it. But if other families cherish the memories they make while taking family portraits, then that's exactly what they should do. There's no right holiday family traditions, and any photo is worth keeping in my opinion.
So, while I can appreciate the moms who take the time to match their families in those adorable holiday outfits, I'm definitely more of an outtakes kind of mom. I hope my children feel that way when they get older and dig out our holiday albums. I want them to flip through the photos and be instantly taken back to those feelings of home, family, and yes, burnt turkey.
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.
15 Things That Always Happen During the Holidays When You Have a Big Family
Big families are a lot of fun, but when everyone gets together, things can get a little, well, chaotic. And when you're a part of a big family and the holidays roll around, that means lots of noise, shared meals, family traditions, and, yes, probably a few fights. Basically, anything can happen. It might be the span of generations or unique mix of personalities that make holidays with a large family an experience all its own, but no matter what does happen, you wouldn't have it any other way. Keep reading for 15 things you'll only understand if you come from a big family.
The Best Gifts For Infants in 2018
Baby's first holiday or birthday can't pass unnoticed. Though they may have more fun with the box than anything in it, there are still plenty of fun gift ideas to add to their toy chest. From activity gyms and bead toys to an adorable rocker and the softest play mat ever, here are our favorite picks for newborns and infants this year!
8 Caffeine-Free Holiday Drinks From Starbucks Your Kids Can Cozy Up With This Season
Nothing says the holidays like going on a Starbucks run to get all the warm and festive drinks your heart desires (in those holiday cups, no less), but do your kids ever feel left out? If they want to be just like you, they probably try to reach for the coffee sometimes, and with Starbucks's kid-friendly holiday drink options, they can! Starbucks always has tasty, caffeine-free drinks for kids, but during the holidays, the options get even more delicious. Whether your little ones like seasonal flavors like eggnog and gingerbread or they prefer to stick to the basics like vanilla and apple juice, the coffee chain has beverages that will have them grinning with holiday cheer.
This Mom Is Suing Her Daughter's School Over the Dress Code, and Who Can Blame Her?
North Carolina mom Erika Booth is standing up to the double standards of dress codes in schools. It all started when her 12-year-old daughter (whom Erika wants to remain anonymous) was only given three types of uniforms to wear to school: a skirt, a skort, and a jumper. And yes, that means no pants for girls.
In fact, Charter Day School in Leland, NC, specifically forbids its female students from wearing pants, and naturally, that just didn't sit well with Erika. She joined in on a preexisting lawsuit another mom, Bonnie Peltier, had already filed against the school for the same reason.
"Once I found out there was a lawsuit, I was delighted," Booth told Today. "I felt like the rule was unfair to girls all along. When my daughter . . . found out she had to wear skirts the first day of kindergarten, she cried."
"They can't run, they can't play, they can't flip upside down. The clothing is simply not as durable."
Aside from the fact that it's 2018 and little girls should definitely be allowed to wear pants, Erika pointed out that sometimes wearing dresses or skirts is downright inconvenient.
"It's impractical to wear a skirt," Erika said. "They can't run, they can't play, they can't flip upside down. The clothing is simply not as durable. They're told that they can wear leggings, and any woman who has ever worn leggings can tell you leggings are not pants. When it's 14 degrees in the morning in January . . . they're not pants. They're not."
It's also become an issue in the classroom. While the male students are allowed to sit cross-legged, girls are required to "sit like a princess" during discussions.
According to Today, there are a few exceptions to the no-pants rule. Female students are allowed to wear shorts once a week - on the day they have gym class - as well as for spirit days and field trips. "For PE, which is one day a week, even they (the school) admit that a skirt is impractical," Erika said. "So basically they're not allowed to be athletic."
Galen Sherwin, an ACLU attorney who's working on the case, said that while sexist dress codes aren't all that unusual, this case is different. "This is definitely an extreme case," she said. "Certainly none of the schools in the local area have a similar requirement, including the Catholic schools."
Baker Mitchell, the founder of the organization that runs Charter Day School, defended its dress code policy, previously stating that it promotes "chivalry" and "traditional values" in a 2015 email addressed to Bonnie.
"Bullying and sexual harassment are current topics of concern almost everywhere we look," Baker wrote. "Teen pregnancies and casual sex receive concerned attention in most communities. Thus, the uniform policy seeks to establish an environment in which our young men and women treat one another with mutual respect."
Amazon Released Its Top 20 Children's Books of 2018, So Here Are Our Kids' Stocking Stuffers
As a huge reader who was an even bigger reader as a kid, lists of the year's new books, especially the best ones, make me giddy. Which is why I'm thrilled looking over Amazon's list of the top books of 2018, especially the picks for children's books. Even if your kid isn't a major book-lover and has plenty of trendy toys on their wish list this year, books make for amazing stocking stuffers, and these all sound too good to pass up.
Check out the 20 top children's books of 2018 that we can't wait to give our kids as gifts. (Because is there anything cuter than a mini reader? We think not.)
Mom Draws Cartoons That Perfectly Sum Up the Utter F*ckery That Is Parenting in 2018
Every so often, you stumble upon something that speaks to you on such a personal level, you wonder how it could even exist outside of your own brain.
For me and - I imagine - most newish moms out there, Helene Weston's illustrations do just that. The British mother of a 4-year-old daughter doodles about modern-day parenting on her Instagram account, and the resulting cartoons are so accurate, it's as if she got access to our nanny cams and Google search history and has been stalking us for material.
"Every single day I experience something as a parent that makes me wonder, 'Surely this can't just be happening to me?!'"
"I get my ideas from my everyday life," she told POPSUGAR. "Every single day I experience something as a parent that makes me wonder, 'Surely this can't just be happening to me?!'"
Her illustrations, which she had been doing long before she became pregnant, cover all aspects of her "new life" as a parent in today's modern, often isolating world. From meeting (and avoiding) potential mom friends to comparing kids' milestones and the stresses that come with posting even the most benign comment to social media, she touches on topics we don't even discuss with our closest confidantes.
And her posts have quickly been shared among the parenting community, some getting polarizing responses from her followers.
"The illustration that has received the biggest attention is the one of the mom having a snooze while her kid watches [British children's television channel] CBeebies, which is literally how I have survived the past four years," she told us. "The comments make me laugh. One woman was having a panic attack that the child in the picture might be at risk while her mom closed her eyes for five minutes! Seriously?! These kind of women are the reason we all have such mom guilt, and quite frankly need to chill the frog out."
Generally, though, she hopes her art is relatable and gives viewers a chuckle.
"Parenting is so tough, the toughest thing I've ever done, in fact, both mentally and physically! The strange thing is we all know it's bloody hard, really lonely at times, and completely overwhelming most of the time, yet nobody wants to admit it. I hate that some moms make others feel like they're not good enough. For f*ck's sake, you grew a whole human being inside your own body, gave birth, and are keeping it alive every single day! You're bloody amazing!" she said.
Read on for her most popular cartoons so far.
Get Comfortable: We Found 53 Perfect Presents For Every Woman in Your Life
Put that mug of hot chocolate down! It's time to get to the real business of the holidays: Christmas shopping. We know it can be hard to find presents for the women in your life, so that's why we created the ultimate gift guide for you to browse through. These items are excellent for mothers, grandmothers, sisters, BFFs, friends, and any other gal you know. Whether she's a fashion girl, couch potato, techie, or makeup maven, we have something she'll be thrilled to receive. You don't even have to get out of your pajamas to look through these goodies; they're all available to purchase online. Let's get going!
You're Going to Want to Take a Good, Hard Look at Gap's Black Friday Sale - It's Nuts!
Some people get so excited about shopping Black Friday that it's practically its own holiday (well, according to those of us who shop professionally). If you're still in the midst of making your lists, we have good news. Whether you need to pick up stocking stuffers or fun things for the kids, Gap and Gap Kids are having a huge sale. How does 50 percent off every single item in the store sound? And it gets better. You don't even have to wait until the day after Thanksgiving to take a crack at these sales. The deal runs from Nov. 20-26. Take a look at a few pieces we have our eyes on.
Mugler Created the Easiest Way to Travel With Fragrance (So Back Off, TSA)
The new Mugler Perfuming Pens in Alien ($24), Aura ($24), and Angel ($24) are genius. They enable overpackers like me the luxury of having a stash of our sexy fragrances to last us through an entire vacation.
The impulse to pack all of my makeup, hair, and skincare products, along with my entire wardrobe, is strong. For my last vacation to Japan, someone working at the airport I was passing through was eyeing one of my cosmetic cases. To say I panicked was an understatement, as I could have sworn that one of my favorite perfumes was in danger of being confiscated. Luckily, it made it through in the clear.
Mugler eliminates that panic with these pens, which come in three scents: Alien (which smells earthy with jasmine, wood, and amber notes), Aura (a blend of sweet vanilla and various woody and floral notes), and Angel (which smells sweet with notes of vanilla and honey). To use them, just uncap, swipe, and take a whiff of the warm, sexy goodness you just unleashed. You only really need one or two swipes per area, as the scent of each sweep is very potent.
So how does Mugler encapsulate its signature scents into these crayons? It's not like typical solid perfumes. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King explained that it is actually the same technology you find in those trendy transparent lipsticks that suspend flowers. "It's made with amid, silica, and a copolymer that seals in the fragrance," she said.
So a huge thanks to Mugler for freeing up space in my suitcase and also getting TSA off my back.
21 Things That Inevitably Happen When You Travel With Kids During the Holidays
My family usually hits the road for the holidays, heading to the beach with my extended family for a vacation that only in the last year (when my son was almost 4 and my daughter was almost 7) began to feel like one. Before that, it was a stressful trip that took so much time and energy to execute that if it wasn't for that alluring Florida sunshine, I might not have gone.
Between buying and wrapping gifts early so I could ship them to our destination in time for Santa's arrival to renting baby supplies we couldn't fit in our suitcases to throwing our rules about screen time and sugar consumption out the window, traveling with kids for the holidays is a jolly sh*tshow. But hey, the holidays are all about togetherness, right? And nothing brings more togetherness than being stuck in a tiny condo for a week (or even better, a car for an eight-hour-plus drive) with your toddlers. If you're planning a trip with your kids over the holidays - to Grandma's house or somewhere more exotic - here are 21 things you need to prepare yourself for.
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