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.
mardi 13 novembre 2018
The 14 Editor-Approved Designer Sneakers on Our Holiday Wish List
Fashion girls everywhere rejoice at the emergence of hot new designer sneakers each season; they're so comfortable, add a cool-girl spin to any outfit, and are officially part of our wardrobe staples. Whether you're looking to buy a gift or to splurge on yourself, these 14 pairs have passed our tests. Think fun fabrics like velvet, platforms, and metallics. This holiday season, treat your feet to one of these chic picks.
Merry Christmas to Me! 14 Holiday Party Essentials I'm Shopping For December
As a shopping editor, I'm always on the hunt for the hottest releases customers should know about. It may only be November, but I'm getting into the holiday spirit by planning all my party looks. They have to be just right (for Instagram, duh), so I uncovered the buzziest pieces on the web. Whether you're looking for a dazzling dress, statement shoes, a sparkly eye-shadow palette, or even a host gift, I've got you covered. Shop through my picks, and get some for yourself - I don't mind if we have matching outfits.
Kate Middleton Found a Polka-Dot Dress Fit For Royalty and Hollywood Stars - How Ya Like Her Now?
Eagle-eyed fans knew where they'd seen Kate Middleton's polka-dot dress immediately, once this still of Prince Louis, Prince Charles, and the duchess made the rounds. It was at Meghan Markle's royal wedding, and actress Abigail Spencer was the one who wore it. Abigail made an entrance by Priyanka Chopra's side in May, showing off the drop-waist design by Alessandra Rich with a crystal belt and netted fascinator. But it appears Kate styled the number as is, letting her curls fall to the Peter Pan collar, the one little detail that - working in tandem with the cuffs - makes this midi so unique.
Funnily enough, Pippa Middleton even wore the same silhouette to Prince Louis's christening, just in plain blue! While the original piece, which retailed for over $1,400, is now sold out, we did some digging and found plenty of similar looks, should you feel inspired. Whether you want to belt it like Abigail or keep things simple like Kate might just depend on the occasion you're shopping for, but 20 bucks says you already have one on the calendar, and this dress is calling your name.
If You're Wearing These Items to Work, Let's Revisit the Dress Code Memo
If HR forgot to share the dress code memo with you when you were hired, don't worry. We created one for you. Ahead, you'll find a list of nine items you should never pull out on a "school day" and the proper substitutions for what to wear instead. This guide should span across all types of offices, from the ultrastrict to the more laid-back. If you're in a pickle because you have plans for after your 9-to-5, we've also got a little something for those looking to transition. But when you leave the house coffee in hand and your destination is your desk, we urge you to shy away from the following pieces. NBD, just save them for the weekend.
Don't Think Emily Ratajkowski's Dress Is Particularly Sexy For Her? Wait 'Til You See the Back
If the allure of party season dresses is calling you, but you are absolutely clueless about what to choose, take note from Emily Ratajkowski. The model and actress sported a hot pink Spring 2019 Prabal Gurung dress on Sunday night at the premiere of Welcome Home, and we've never been more ready for the holidays.
While the silk scoop neck gown, complete with sculptural skirt, may seem a little different than Emily's usual sexy attire, wait until you see the back. The demure gown makes a cheeky wink, featuring an open back with black tie detail. A very sexy black tie detail, indeed. Not to take away from the bowed moment, Emily styled the look with black heeled sandals and jeweled earrings.
This isn't the first time Emily's sported a classy in the front, party in the back ensemble, as she recently wore a backless number to the Moët x Virgil launch party. We're certainly supporting this new signature style. Read on to see why they call it "hot" pink, then add a similar silhouette to your own closet.
Gigi Hadid's Rainbow Parachute Wings Are the Prettiest Things We've Seen on the Runway
The 2018 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show will forever go down in history. Not only was it Adriana Lima's last show, but Gigi Hadid also probably wore the coolest wings I've seen to date. The supermodel wore a couple of sexy lingerie looks down the runway, but it was a trippy rainbow-colored bodysuit from the brand's collab with Mary Katrantzou that made me sit straight up in my seat. While the colorful patterns were mesmerizing, I couldn't stop staring at what was attached to it: a matching printed parachute that filled with air as she walked. Read on to see all of Gigi's runway looks from the show.
Michelle Obama's Powerful Open Letter to Chicago Addresses the Idea of Failure
In preparation for the release of her memoir, Becoming, on Nov. 13, Michelle Obama has shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of her life before, during, and after the White House. Now, the former first lady is addressing her hometown of Chicago specifically in a powerful open letter to the town that raised her.
Following in the footsteps of her elementary school principal, Dr. Joseph A. Lavizzo, Jr., Obama penned a letter to the readers of The Chicago Defender. She describes how in Dr. Lavizzo's letter, he fought not only against toxic vitriol but also against fear itself.
"As I write in my memoir, Becoming, failure is a feeling long before it is an actual result," Obama explains. "It's vulnerability that breeds with self-doubt and then is escalated, often deliberately, by fear. That's what Dr. Lavizzo and so many others in our community fought back against. It's why teachers stayed up late grading papers and summer-camp organizers dedicated themselves to kids all across South Shore. And it's why my parents invested themselves so deeply into my older brother Craig and me."
This resounding sense of hope in the face of failure is a common theme Obama strives to re-emphasize. She describes how she was shaped and raised by her Chicago neighborhood, in spite of any fear. "None of them could have known that a kid from South Shore would grow up to become First Lady of the United States - but they fought like it anyway."
While many things have changed in the neighborhood since Obama's childhood, the love from her community is still overwhelming. "That's why I can't wait to see the good that comes out of the neighborhoods all across Chicago in the years ahead," she wrote. "I can't wait to see what's next for all the young people growing up today, walking the same sidewalks and sitting in the same classrooms as I once did. There's no telling who they might become."
Spoil Your Grandparents as Much as They Spoil You With These Gifts This Holiday Season
Grandparents deserve the best every day of the year, and the holidays are no exception. From sharing their wisdom to being your number one supporter, grandparents are more than special; they are a true treasure.
Show them how much you appreciate them this holiday season with these tasteful and timeless gifts. From special photo albums to matching robes, these presents will spoil every kind of grandparent on your list.
Why Calling It Cannabis, Not Marijuana, Is So Powerful
The following post was originally published on Miss Grass.
At the risk of patronizing you, dear reader, I implore you to never use that word again. It's "cannabis" to refer to the plant. And now, more than ever, it's important to get that much right. The bad "marijuana" juju runs deep.
For one, referring to the plant as "marijuana" is scientifically inaccurate. There's no such thing as a marijuana plant. And though "cannabis" and "marijuana" continue to be used interchangeably - even in official capacities - they are not the same thing.
The cannabis plant renders in three ways: herb, hashish, and hash oil. Marijuana refers to the herb form - the dried flowers and leaves with which you roll a joint or pack a bowl. But the more experimental you get with your cannabis consumption, the more you stray from what technically qualifies as marijuana.
But the more significant reason we don't use the word "marijuana" has nothing at all to do with science and everything to do with history, civil rights, and the case for reparations.
"Marijuana" began as a Mexican folk name for cannabis. But it was first popularized in the US by the notoriously racist publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. You might recognize Hearst's name because it's his empire that still publishes titles like Cosmopolitan, Elle, Marie Claire, Esquire, O Magazine and many others.
At some point, Hearst saw the growing cannabis industry as a threat to his timber investments and decided to orchestrate a nationwide and categorically vicious campaign to wipe it out. His propaganda took to the pages of major American newspapers, telling hideous and wholly untrue stories about people of color committing horrific acts of violence under the influence of cannabis.
He took advantage of a predominantly held racist public opinion at the time. Ultimately, with the help of a bureaucrat named Harry Anslinger, the two men galvanized the federal prohibition of cannabis in 1937 and, eventually, its Schedule 1 classification. Then came Richard Nixon's War on Drugs, the killing of millions, the incarceration of millions more, and the families torn apart.
Throughout it all, "marijuana" became synonymous with evil. And to this day, it persists.
In 2016 alone, almost 600,000 people were arrested in the US for cannabis. That's more people than all other violent crimes combined. And the vast majority of those were for low-level possession, mostly by minorities. Despite statistics that show different races use cannabis at roughly the same rate, minorities are much more likely to be arrested and punished. In fact, between 2001 and 2010, African Americans were arrested for cannabis possession at roughly four times the rate of whites.
It is people of color who bear the burden of the War on Drugs still. The hangover from Hearst and Anslinger's campaigns continue to stymie legalization efforts. And use of the word "marijuana" only perpetuates a narrative that cannabis is a dangerous, addictive substance.
As editor-in-chief of Miss Grass, I've wondered how to tackle the racist history of cannabis. I sit on the privileged side of it all. As a white woman, the fact that I comfortably exist at the frontlines of this greenrush is not lost on me. Who am I to speak about this? And where to begin?
I can begin at the beginning. I can begin with the basics. I can read and ask questions and share what I've learned. I can be open to being told that I got it wrong and correct my mistakes. I can help to build the table and save the seats. I can embrace my civic duty to fight back against what I know to be untrue. I can stand up for the rights of those who have made this moment possible. I can shine a light on the real story, however ugly. And I can work toward a future that is both inclusive and honest.
And so can you.
If the goal is to take back the magic of this plant - and it is! - let us build this foundation of real material. And to do that, let us begin at the beginning: with the words we choose.
Check out more great stories from Miss Grass:
PSA: Here Are the 70+ New Emoji Featured in Apple's Latest Update!
In case you missed it, Apple's iOS 12.1 software update comes with a boatload of fun emoji - more than 70, to be exact. New characters include animals like a lobster, a llama, and a kangaroo; household items like a broom, toilet paper, and yarn; foods like a mango, a bagel, and a cupcake; plus body parts like a foot, a leg, and a bone. Oh, and the update also includes the highly anticipated redhead emoji in a range of skin tones, along with bald and curly-haired emoji characters.
The latest software update "brings even more characters to the keyboard that better represent global users, including new emoji for moon cake, red gift envelope, and nazar amulet," Apple said in a press release about the iOS 12.1 emoji offerings. Apple device users can expect even more diverse options to become available next year, as the tech giant is partnering with the Unicode Consortium to create "more disability-themed emoji to the keyboard for Unicode 12.0, slated for release in 2019."
Take a peek at the new emoji featured in iOS 12.1 in case you need some motivation to finally stop putting off the update.
30 Gifts Your 30-Something Boyfriend Will Want This Year
Trying to find the perfect present for your significant other? We know it's hard sometimes. If you've got a husband or boyfriend in his 30s, we have a whole guide of gifts just for your guy. Let us do all the work for you and we guarantee you'll give your man something he will love. Check out our top picks.
The Best Black Friday Tech Deals Have Arrived, So Start Running For Your Wallet
When we hear the words Black Friday or Cyber Monday, we instantly sprint for our wallets. While the megasale weekend is still weeks away, that hasn't stopped the internet from releasing its best and hottest deals early. We searched and found some crazy prices that are totally worth it. Some are available for a limited time only, and a number of them last all month. So what are you waiting for? Keep scrolling to see the incredible finds waiting for you to click "buy."
The 10 Best Travel Gifts From Amazon in 2018 - All Under $20
Whether you're going on a work trip, vacation, or big backpacking adventure, you need to be prepared. There's nothing worse than being far away from home without the necessities. Luckily, stocking up on what you need doesn't have to burn a hole in your pocket. Amazon offers a variety of travel products for reasonable prices. Plus, if you have Amazon Prime, many of these items can arrive at your door in as little as two days. If you don't know where to start, we rounded up the most important (and genius) products you need for your next journey. Consider this your ultimate checklist. Waste no time and get to shopping.
I Got Married on a Holiday, and I Have Zero Regrets
Wedding planning is tough. Choosing the perfect venue, dress, photographer, and more are almost always overwhelming for the bride. One giant factor can never be overlooked, either: nailing the date. Picking the right date for your big day can be just as problematic as everything else combined. We want to please our parents, Grandma, and even Aunt Mary and Uncle Bob. But we must keep in mind that that's impossible. While picking a date for our wedding, my husband and I desperately struggled with this conundrum. The venue we wanted only had one possible date that worked for us. So, after a lot of hemming and hawing, we took the plunge and decided on a holiday wedding date: the Fourth of July.
Right away, we caught the grief thrown at us for choosing a holiday for our wedding. Friends and family had the audacity to say in jest, "Way to ruin our holiday weekend!" or "I'll come only if there are fireworks." At first, I felt a little guilty. But then I simply chose not to care. It was our wedding, our big day - people should have shut their mouths. They should have simply called and said, "We are so excited to share in your day!" But no - many individuals just had to get that dig in.
I mean, how dare we ruin someone else's day off of work, for crying out loud? Honestly, I felt that it would possibly be a little upsetting that guests would have to give up their annual fireworks, but I never dreamed that our wedding bliss would cause such disgruntled behavior by those I thought I meant a lot to. But still, my husband and I didn't waver. We kept the date and scribed it in stone.
My husband and I, we just went with the notion that if we meant enough to our guests, they would want to be there. It shouldn't matter what day of the year we got married on. If they wanted to join us in our celebration, they would toss on a dress or suit and cheers with us. If not, they'd partake in their other, more festive, plans. And that's pretty much what happened. Coming from a big, fat Greek family, we had to invite the entire congregation. Of course. My husband's family invited many important people in their lives, too. But out of the large invite list, one-quarter of the guests checked "Unable to attend." Hey, it cut our bill down tremendously. That was one perk!
If someone truly loves you and your future spouse, they'll make it to your wedding despite the date on the calendar.
And when our big day came, I didn't think twice about the people who weren't there dancing with us on the dance floor. I didn't wonder who was missing. Instead, I mingled with the people who made the trip to our wedding - a wedding they attended even though it was on a holiday. Maybe there were times when our guests dreamt about being on the lake and roasting marshmallows with their friends while watching the fireworks. But when it came down to it, they decided they'd much rather attend one of the happiest days of our lives. I'm grateful for all of our guests who made it to our big day because I think the holiday magic made it that much more special.
If you're thinking about having a holiday wedding, go for it. Do not let a silly date stop you. If someone truly loves you and your future spouse, they'll make it to your wedding despite the date on the calendar. Your guests will drop their plans because they'd rather be raising their glass toasting you than anywhere else.
I Did a Random Act of Kindness Every Day For a Week, and Here's What Happened
When I fell into a deep depression after losing a pregnancy last year, it was the smallest things that lifted my spirits, and helped me get through each day. A smile, a kind word, someone holding a door open for me. Those considerate gestures helped me feel less alone and remember there is still so much good in the world.
With my experience in mind, I decided to perform one random act of kindness each day for a week. My hope was to brighten someone else's day much like people did for me when I really needed it. I expected that helping others would also make me feel good. What I didn't expect was how much approaching my week with the intent to show kindness to others would open up a whole new world. I ended up learning that opportunities to show kindness to others are all around us, if we take the time to look for them.
Read on to see exactly what happened when I did a random act of kindness every day. Here's hoping you'll be inspired, too.
The 45 Cutest Stocking Stuffers on the Internet
If you're spending your days endlessly searching for the perfect stocking stuffers, we're here to save the day. We scoured the internet for the absolute cutest picks of the year so all you have to do is click "buy." You might want to be careful shopping because you'll end up wanting them all for yourself, from flamingo slippers to unicorn mugs and cozy socks. Take a look.
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.
Every Who Down in Whoville Will Want These Grinch Family PJs - Even Your Dog!
Is there anything better than queuing up your TV and watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas during the holiday season? Absolutely not. But thanks to a brand-new version of the classic starring Benedict Cumberbatch already out in theaters, there's bound to be tons of Grinch-themed garb floating around out there.
And while we're totally obsessed with green plush Build-A-Bears and the DIY Whoville Gingerbread House, these Grinch-themed pajamas for the whole squad - including the dog - are far and away our favorite items yet. Scroll through to get a look at these adorable onesies and make sure to score your family a set ASAP!
Heartbreaking Photos of Rescued Animals Emerge as California Fires Continue to Spread
Since last week, three deadly wildfires - Camp Fire, Hill Fire, and Woosley Fire - have been ripping through Northern and Southern California, leaving hundreds of thousands of people displaced and many homes and businesses lost. At press time, firefighters are still working to contain the blazes, which have taken the lives of at least 29 people so far. Amid the tragic devastation, volunteers and rescuers are heading back to evacuated areas affected by the fires to search for pets and farm animals that were forced to be left behind as their owners fled on short notice, and the rescue photos cropping up are incredibly emotional.
Additionally, evacuation centers, animal shelters, and those who've rescued animals themselves are looking for support to help look after the animals in their care and reunite owners with their furry friends.
"Community! Let's rally together to help the displaced animals and their human companions in this urgent situation," the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Services tweeted. "Kennels/crates are needed at sheltering sites - please take them to the office of Council Member Bob Blumenfield at 19040 Vanowen St., Reseda, CA 91335. Thank you all!"
If you'd like to help the efforts of those rescuing and housing animals in need, here are a few things you can do to provide aid, no matter where you are in the world:
- The Humane Society of Ventura County is accepting animals evacuating from the fires - donate to the organization here or purchase needed items through its Amazon Wish List here.
- The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is also accepting animals evacuating from the fires - donate to the foundation here.
- The Butte Humane Society is accepting supplies for the animals in its care - purchase items through its Amazon Wish List here.
If you live nearby, consider adopting or fostering a pet to clear some space in the surrounding shelters for the animals coming in. The LA County Department of Animal Care and Control tweeted: "If you can adopt, please go to your closest animal care center to create life-saving space during the high winds and fire in this emergency!"
This Woman Expertly Embroiders Pet Portraits, and We've Never Seen ANYTHING Like It
When it comes to spoiling our pets, the sky is truly the limit, particularly around the holiday season. Amanda Neely, an expert embroiderer, certainly knows how to capitalize on our fanatic pet obsession - and can you blame her? Her Etsy Shop CrewelGhoul is completely dedicated to crazy-detailed pet portraits, all done on hoops or hats.
"I got started embroidering about 10 years ago as a side hobby and outlet to relieve stress and taught myself basic stitches," Amanda told POPSUGAR. "Then about three or four years ago I thought it would be fun to try to embroider pet portraits, and it turned into a big challenge! So I really dove into learning about 'thread painting' and making the portraits more realistic. It's still a challenge, but a very rewarding one!"
Is there a better way to show your pets how much you love them other than commissioning a jaw-dropping 4-Inch Portrait ($125)? No! Prices increase by the size of the hoop. You can also snag a hat with your pet's face on it for $100. Scroll through to get a look at some of Amanda's eye-catching work.
Yum! 20 Food Gifts From Oprah's Favorite Things You Can Buy on Amazon
Get comfortable, because it's time to shop through Oprah's Favorite Things for 2018! We're so impressed with all the products, but we're truly excited to indulge in the food-related goodies. Oprah Winfrey chose everything from a truffle burger kit to cheesecake on a stick, so you're sure to find something to enjoy for the holidays. There are even some nifty appliances like an espresso machine and a water carbonator. Shop through all the delectable picks and get some before they sell out!
Side or Main Dish? This Delicious Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Will Impress
It's confession time. My guilty pleasure is macaroni and cheese. Now, not just any macaroni and cheese, but the boxed kind. Yes, the one with the packet of powdered cheese that probably has a lot of weird and unnatural stuff added to it. But, hey, what you don't know won't kill you, right? I like to live life on the edge, and if that means I get my dose of happiness from a box of powdered cheese and elbow macaroni, why not. But that's not to say every once in a while I don't like to indulge in a really lavish and gourmet version of mac and cheese.
Since it's the season of pumpkin spice and everything nice and, of course, gourds, there's no better time or place than now to bring butternut squash into the cheesy mix. I love combining sweet notes with the nutty ones that are already in mac and cheese from the nutmeg and unique selection of cheeses. If this hasn't been torture enough yet, let's get cooking so we can sink our forks into this immediately. Whether you're making this as a side for Thanksgiving or as a main dish for a Fall-inspired dinner, it'll be a hit!
I Had No Idea Heated Pet Beds Existed, and Now I Can Completely Spoil My Doggo the Way She Deserves
Anything I can do to bring joy - or comfort - to my dog's life, I'll do. And it's not because I want to dress her up in funny pet pajamas just for the heck of it (though, that is fun); it's because she's a rescue and had a hard life. I just want her to be as happy as she can be now.
With that comes lots of purchases. From treats to toys and even subscription boxes, there are few things I won't get for my BFF. Now that it's getting colder and she's getting older, heated pet beds are on the menu.
Whether you want to warm up a dog or cat, here are six heated beds that pet owners love.
50+ Unique Gifts For Every Unicorn- and Rainbow-Lover in Your Life
If you know someone who is obsessed with anything rainbow and unicorn (because who isn't?), you're in luck. Your holiday shopping will be easier than ever this year because we hunted down the 52 hottest gifts on the internet for anyone who just can't get enough. From heat-up slippers to pretty necklaces and even lava lamps, you might want to add a few of these things to your own wish list. Take a look.
Related: 33 White Elephant Gifts Your Friends Will Actually Love
Hey, Jet-Setters: Travel Smarter With These Convenient Tech Cases
Keeping everything organized and in one place while traveling is tough, especially when it comes to bringing tech accessories on the go. Charger cords and headphones, especially, get tangled up, misplaced, and in the way of everything. Trust us: we have all been there.
So how do you keep all the parts and pieces together and your valuable tech gear protected? Check out these tech cases that make traveling easier, and get going!
Travel tech-savvy wherever your trips might take you.
31 Cats Sitting on Santa's Lap That May or May Not Be Poised to Attack
If you're a cat owner, you know that most cats only like to be snuggled on their own terms, and even then, there's a very delicate balance between "I'm going to lie here forever" and "Peace out, homie!" That simple fact is what makes these photos of cats sitting on Santa's lap 100 million times funnier, because as cute as these felines all are (SO. DAMN. CUTE.), you just know that they've all got to be mentally poised to attack at any given moment.
Please, stop whatever you're doing and LOL with me over these hilarious cat photos. (And godspeed, Santa.)
14 Dreamy Honeymoon Destinations That Will Excite You More Than the Wedding
Planning a wedding, albeit exciting, can be a daunting process. From the big decisions down to the tiniest details, you could have a two-year engagement and still feel short on time. But planning your honeymoon? Now you're onto the fun part. If time and resources allow, getting away right after you say "I do" is a magical experience - one that you and your partner will never forget (and frankly, could use after all the wedding-day commotion). Whether you're craving adventure, classic romance, or merely some rest and relaxation, read on for 14 enchanting honeymoon destinations that just might excite you more than the ceremony.
I Am Now a Woman Who Subscribes to Sparkling Water, and I Accept My Extremely Millennial Fate
UPDATE: In November, UGLY launched its newest flavor, watermelon. While Fall might not seem like the most opportune time for such a Summer-y taste, UGLY's cofounder Hugh Thomas says he's not particularly interested in rules about what you "should" drink in what season: "Watermelon in the cooler months . . . Why not?" The new flavor is available in stores in NYC and online now.
I admit it: when a box of sparkling water from Ugly Drinks showed up on my desk, I ignored it for several days. The ubiquity of sparkling water just feels so embarrassingly . . . millennial. The bubble-infused beverage has become such a mainstay in the diets and at the social gatherings of 20- and 30-somethings that it's hard to remember how we hydrated before it. Why the obsession? Based on absolutely no research, I am certain we can chalk it up to two key factors: global warming (we're thirsty!) and our generation's propensity to drink less alcohol (we're boring!).
I like sparkling water; I don't love it. I'll take a coconut LaCroix - the best LaCroix flavor, don't @ me - but only if there's no wine. I despise the noncommittal, vaguely fruit-adjacent flavor of so many sparkling waters, as though someone just served me Pellegrino from a glass they forgot they drank Hi-C out of earlier. Others are so aggressively bubbly you have to sip them in slow-mo to prevent hot-air ballooning (a real medical condition I swear I didn't just make up). So, once I did snap open a cherry Ugly, I was surprised I liked it. A lot. Here's why:
- Like most trendy sparkling waters, Ugly is also sugar-, preservative-, and calorie-free . . .
- But it shares more in common in the flavor department with the Crystal Geyser sparkling juices my mom used to buy at Costco when I was a kid than it does with many of today's wimpier-tasting carbonated waters.
- Ugly smells good, and it tastes like it smells. The peach flavor is actually peachy. The lemon-lime variety isn't artificial.
- The bubbles are smooth, and the carbonation isn't crazy abrasive.
- Let's not be coy about it: the bright blue cans, laden with a vintage, pop-art-inspired bubble font, are practically begging to be Instagrammed.
When I threw a party over Memorial Day weekend, at least a dozen people asked me about the adorable sparkling water I was hawking liberally from the fridge. Where could they buy it? Well, buckle up, my friends, because this is where it gets super millennial. The UK-based beverage line is available in a few spots on the East Coast . . . but is mostly sold via a monthly online subscription. I initially felt ridiculous subscribing to water with bubbles in it. Then, I considered that a) I am a sucker for wine clubs, which operate in much the same manner; b) I love receiving things in the mail; and c) I have to stop myself from consuming an entire case of cherry-flavored Ugly in a single sitting. Up I signed. My monthly supply of 24 cans of cherry Ugly, with tax and shipping, comes to $27.20. That's $1.13 per can. What else can you even buy for $1.13 these days? A single pencil? One lightly used Ziploc bag? I don't know.
If you want to give Ugly Drinks a try, the brand was kind enough to give me this code to share with POPSUGAR readers, which lands you 10 percent off your first order: UGLYWATERMELON. It's simple, really. You, like me, can recognize that your sparkling water resistance is futile and fully accept your millennial fate, or continue to eschew effervescence in favor of a flat-water existence. The choice is yours.
These Doggies Sitting on Santa's Lap Are Definitely on the Nice List!
Our dogs do a million and one things throughout the year that make us crazy - they're born troublemakers - but every dog owner knows that there's no such thing as a pupper on the Naughty List, no matter how bad they may have been. It doesn't matter if they chewed up your slippers, TPd your bathroom, peed on every carpet in the house, or jumped onto the dinner table and ate an entire plate of chicken cutlets (that one might be from personal experience); your dog is your precious, sweet, adorable little baby who can do no wrong even when they do wrong.
And based on the following ridiculously cute photos of pooches, it looks like Santa, the keeper of the Nice and Naughty Lists, would have to agree. We can't decide who's cuter in these pictures - Santa or the pups (OK, obviously the doggos).
17 CBD-Infused Gifts to Help Your Friends Chill Out This Holiday Season
CBD isn't just for headshops and your hippie cousin - it's gone full mainstream. CBD has made its way into gummies, creams, tinctures, tea, and even oil for your dog. It's no wonder cannabidiol, the nonpsychoactive component of the marijuana plant, is so effective; it can help relieve anxiety, soothe aches and pains, ease muscle soreness, and help induce sleep.
Jump on the CBD trend this season with these thoughtful gifts the loved ones in your life will enjoy. Whether they suffer from anxiety, sore muscles, or joint pain, there's a CBD gift on this list that will ease their unpleasant symptoms.
Yes, You Can Lose Up to 15 Pounds in 2 Months (and Keep It Off) - Here's How
When people are looking to lose weight, they typically want whatever will get them results as fast as possible. In reality, there is no such thing as a quick fix for weight loss. Juice cleanses, strict low-calorie diets, and "detoxes" deliver more hype than actual results. Sure, the scale may go down as you lose water weight, but it will just come back up (and then some) once you eat full meals again.
If you're looking to really lose weight - as in: lose fat, change your measurements, and go down a dress size - then you need to be strategic to get results. You can definitely lose weight and see results within two months as long as you follow these steps. We spoke to registered dietitian and personal trainer Jim White, RDN, ACSM, owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios, who outlined these six ways to lose weight and see results within just eight weeks. And not just that, but keep it off for good.
The time will pass whether you make a change or not. So you might as well take the necessary steps towards your goal and really see results!
This Healthy Holiday Hack Will Save You So Many Calories This Season
If you're anything like me, you're 1) obsessed with Christmas, and 2) obsessed with festive beverages. Decadent eggnog, spiced cider, rich hot chocolate, and the occasional mulled wine are treats I look forward to year round - and imbibe in without the tiniest shred of restraint come November. Or at least I did, until Father Time started to take his toll on my metabolism, and I was forced to learn a few lessons in self-control, particularly when it comes to liquid calories.
However, I'm not here to cut back on the festive vibes or holiday spirit; quite the contrary! My new trick when it comes to a cup of cheer, sans excess fat and sugar? Tea. Sounds boring as heck, I know, but I'm here to show you otherwise. The brews I reach for when the temps drop and the Nat King Cole gets turned way, way up are packed with flavor and bursting with nostalgia.
Festive teas have helped me not only eliminate liquid calories but also curb my sweet tooth so I don't overindulge on desserts (trust me, I still eat 'em when I want to!). The result is a healthier body with more energy and pep to thrive all season long. Check out some of my favorites ahead; whether you're craving a creamy candy cane blend, a spicy cocoa, or nutmeg-dusted nog, there's a tea for every holiday mood.
Nope, Drinking Coffee Won't Improve Your Metabolism - Here's What Actually Works
If you've ever looked up how to boost your metabolism, you've probably come across information telling you to eat more spicy foods, skip breakfast in the morning, and drink more coffee. You've seen the memes that say you aren't officially awake until you've had a cup of coffee, but when it comes to speeding up your metabolism, the caffeine isn't making much of a difference.
"I don't think there's any food that can consistently and sustainably increase your metabolic rate meaning the number of calories you burn," Dori Arad, PhD, RDN, CDE, the Mount Sinai Physiolab director, told POPSUGAR. "Everything that people usually use, like caffeine, for example - they may increase your metabolism, but for a very short period of time, and not if you drink coffee everyday," he said.
Related: If You're Drinking Water in the Morning to Boost Your Metabolism, Think Again
Instead of ordering a double shot of espresso with the hopes of naturally boosting your metabolism, Dr. Arad told us four things things you can begin to implement into your daily life that actually work. First, begin to incorporate strength training into your workout routine. Not only will you burn more calories, you'll build more muscle, requiring more energy, which means your metabolic rate will increase. You can get started with this four-week beginner's program.
Dr. Arad also said to eat more healthy fats and protein, because your body will have to work harder to process them. Finally, Dr. Arad said to decrease your sugar intake to prevent those calories from being stored as fat.
Working Out in the Evening Is Messing Up Your Sleep - Here Are 8 Ways to Improve It
Someone should definitely start a petition to make naps mandatory during the work week. While we wait for that to happen, we spoke with Alon Avidan, MD, MPH, director of the UCLA Sleep Disorders Center about the dos and don'ts to getting better sleep. If you're ready to wake up feeling rejuvenated, begin to implement Dr. Avidan's simple advice tonight.
The 4 Important Things to Know About Your Metabolism If You Want to Change Your Body
Chances are you've heard the word metabolism come up in conversations around health and fitness; heck, you've probably even used it yourself. But what does it really mean? We're not trying to get all deep on you, but when it comes to your health, understanding how your body works is important. In order to provide you with an accurate definition of what metabolism is, how it works, and if you can actually boost it or not, POPSUGAR spoke with Avigdor Arad, PhD, RDN, CDE, director of the Mount Sinai Physiolab.
What Is Metabolism?
Metabolism has been getting a lot of buzz lately, but it's important to actually understand what it is. In short: "Metabolism relates to the ability to produce energy from fat, from sugar, from protein, and also to store energy," Dr. Arad told POPSUGAR. And when you hear people talking about their metabolic rate, they're talking about the number of calories they burn in a unit of time, he said.
How Your Metabolism Works
Now that we've cleared up what your metabolism is, it's important to know how it works. In its most simplistic form, metabolism is the process of your body "taking stored energy that is in food and liquid and transforming it to usable energy or stored energy in the body," Dr. Arad said. This means that every time you eat something - a slice of pizza, a smoothie, your favorite snack - your body turns that food and liquid into energy, and then that energy will either be used right away or stored.
If your body uses the energy in the short-term, it's turned into sugar and phosphocreatine - the energy that allows ATP (the immediate source of energy for exercise) to resynthesize - and is used as an immediate source of energy. If it isn't used immediately, it becomes stored for the long-term in the form of fat, Dr. Arad explained.
What It Actually Means to Have a Fast or Slow Metabolism
Another important thing you should know about metabolism is the rate at which the body produces energy from fat, sugar, and protein will vary from person to person. "Usually, when people are talking about metabolism, they're talking about how well they produce energy. The more energy you produce, the higher (or faster) your metabolism, and the less energy you produce, the slower your metabolism is," he said.
To determine whether you have a fast or slow metabolism, you should consider getting a resting metabolic test (typically $250, but rates will vary) via specialized clinics such as Fitnescity.
How to Boost Your Metabolism
We've got the basics of metabolism covered, and now it's time to answer the million-dollar question: can you boost your metabolism? Yes, it's actually possible to boost your metabolism, but adding hot sauce to everything won't work. According to Dr. Arad, you can boost your metabolism by eating more healthy fats and protein, consuming less sugar, and incorporating more strength training into your workout routine (here's a four-week beginner's plan).
Winter Weather Sucks, So Relax and Rejuvenate With These 5 Self-Care Tips From a Spa Director
It's time to put those beloved sandals away and break out the wool sweaters; Winter is on the way. It's hard not to get into a funk when you wake up to complete darkness and trudge through blustering temps just to get to your car.
Although you probably just want to bury yourself under a blanket this time of year and not move, self-care is more important than ever. Not only will the rituals of putting yourself first - even if it's just for a few minutes a day - help you de-stress, but it can also boost your mood.
I spoke with Majka Kendall, the spa director at Chatham Bars Inn Resort and Spa in Cape Cod, where I got to experience the relaxing spa firsthand as part of a press trip. After a full-body scrub, I felt totally rejuvenated despite the cold and rainy temps outside. At night, I got to use the giant soaking tub inside a spa suite, which helped me unwind and ease into a restful sleep.
Since a spa getaway isn't feasible for everyone, especially during the busy holiday season, Majka shared some self-care tips you can do right at home to combat the Winter blues. Although these tips may help reinvigorate you, if you truly suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), be sure to visit a healthcare provider who can help you find a course of treatment that works for you.
50+ Lightened-Up Thanksgiving Recipes For Your Big Feast
If you're in need of a fresh take on a Thanksgiving classic, here's the answer to your recipe prayers! These healthy and delicious recipes will delight your guests, and there's an option for everyone. Whether you're entertaining a group that's vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, or even Paleo, there's a recipe here to get your creative juices flowing while you're in the process of developing a holiday menu. Click on the category below to hop right to the dish or course you're looking to lighten up this year.
Outdoor Voices Is Now at Nordstrom, So We Might Need a Bigger Closet
Outdoor Voices has been one of our favorite athleisure brands for a long time, so when we heard they were dropping at Nordstrom, we freaked out a little bit. Its signature textured compression fabric hugs you in and makes you look and feel amazing. These are the clothes you want to live in, whether you're heading out on a hike, going to yoga class, or just running around on the weekends. Its crop top bras and leggings come in the cutest, most unique colorways. Once you try them, you'll be hooked; we know we are.
Confused About WW's FitPoints? We Were Too - Until Now
You know every food on WW (formerly Weight Watchers) has a numerical value and the program gives you a daily SmartPoints budget for everything you eat, but did you know you can also rack up FitPoints to expand that budget? Each physical activity you do is assigned a points value, just like food. Depending on how hard you work out and for how long, you can accrue FitPoints, which increase your daily WW budget and, yes, allow you to eat a little more. There are a few caveats, though.
If I Work Out and Get FitPoints, Can I Eat More?
If you want to use your FitPoints to be able to eat more (aka working out so you can indulge a little), you have to meet WW's threshold for swapping your points. You have to earn three to four FitPoints a day (which WW says is about 3,000 daily steps) to be able to turn your FitPoints into SmartPoints.
You can also choose the order in which your SmartPoints are used. Remember: you have daily SmartPoints, weekly SmartPoints, and FitPoints. Your daily SmartPoints are always the first points you use in a day. You can then choose whether you want your FitPoints to come next or your weekly SmartPoints. It probably doesn't matter much, but you can play around with the order to see if one particular way suits your wellness journey better.
What Else Can I Do With FitPoints?
You can opt to have your FitPoints not affect your SmartPoints at all. Personally, I don't turn my FitPoints into food points because it tricks me into thinking I can eat more than I should, so I'm better off sticking with only my daily and weekly SmartPoints. But in case you think your FitPoints don't matter, keep in mind that with WW's newest program, WellnessWins, you earn five wins each day you track activity, which you can then use to purchase prizes.
How Can I Track My FitPoints?
This might all sound incredibly confusing, so let's look at a real example. My daily SmartPoints budget is 25. I get 42 weekly SmartPoints. I set my account to dip into my FitPoints first before my weekly points, then did a 45-minute high-intensity Spin class, which counts for 17 FitPoints.
I ate 27 SmartPoints today, which is two over my daily limit. Those two SmartPoints are pulled from the 17 FitPoints I earned today, so now I have 15 FitPoints left to last me the rest of the week until my next weigh-in. If I don't earn any more FitPoints but go over my daily SmartPoints by more than 15, I'll burn through all my FitPoints and start to burn through my 42 weekly SmartPoints.
If you want to see how your account is currently set up, it's in your app, under Food Settings. There's a Swapping option that you can adjust to any of the three options (no swapping, swap for weekly SmartPoints before FitPoints, or swap for FitPoints before weekly SmartPoints).
In the end, here's what you absolutely need to know: Exercise is great and you should do it and track it on your WW app. If you feel like you're working out hard enough that you need to be eating more for fuel, set your account to make your FitPoints available for food. If you feel like that's not going to help you with your weight-loss goals, rack up those FitPoints for WellnessWins and feel good about all the exercise you're doing.
If You're Struggling With Body Image, You Need to Read Lili Reinhart's Latest Speech
Lili Reinhart is no stranger to opening up about her struggles with body image and mental health, but her latest quotes about the subject matter just might be her most powerful yet. On Nov. 11, the Riverdale actress gave an empowering speech at Glamour's 2018 Women of the Year Summit, and it was jam-packed with reminders about the importance of self-love. "We exist in a world today where everything can be faked or fixed," Lili said while beginning her speech. "Noses can be changed, and stomachs can be tightened, and cellulite can be lasered away, apparently. Because that's what we are told to do, which is alter ourselves in order to be beautiful."
"I didn't think anything was wrong with my body until I was in an industry that rewards and praises people for having a smaller waist than I will ever have."
The 22-year-old star admitted that for the past year, she's dealt with backlash from people who claimed she "didn't have the right" to discuss being self-conscious about her body because she was thin. "I understand how it seems inappropriate for someone who is average size to talk about problems with weight gain. But, my point is, I didn't think anything was wrong with my body until I was in an industry that rewards and praises people for having a smaller waist than I will ever have," Lili said.
The result of these unrealistic industry standards? Lili became "hyper-aware" of her body's fluctuations, often examining herself in the mirror and feeling wary when her stomach looked different just hours apart. "I was thinking, was my reflection lying to me? How can my body look so different over the course of one day and why do I feel like I need to apologize to the world for my ever-changing self?" she said, adding that she didn't want her fans to think that she was "catfishing" them with her appearance.
"We aren't born with these insecurities. We are told to be insecure about certain things."
Lili then cast light on how the media tends to cause women's insecurities by portraying what they should and shouldn't look like. "From a young age, we are unknowingly being trained by magazines, marketing, and all forms of media into thinking that having cellulite or not wearing makeup is worthy of being publicly shamed," the actress said. "So there was no way in hell that as young women digesting this media, we weren't all going to try and hide those parts of ourselves from then on. We aren't born with these insecurities. We are told to be insecure about certain things. We are conditioned to feel ashamed or embarrassed about certain parts of ourselves." Ain't that the truth!
The solution to said body shaming isn't an easy one to come upon, Lili said, but she did add that "changing it ourselves" is possible if people vow to show "what's real with no filter and certainly no shame." She encouraged the women in the crowd to present both their "natural, vulnerable side" and their "glamorous, contoured side" on social media, striking a balance between the two to keep things more real.
Lili wrapped up her speech with some particularly empowering words that deserve their own damn billboard, or, at the very least, their own sticky note on your bedside table. "Do not set impossible goals of meeting those fake standards. It's unrealistic to think that your body or my body will ever look like anyone else's. That's not the way it's supposed to be," she said. "You can be naturally beautiful with acne or scars, cellulite or curves. So let's celebrate each other, and ourselves, as we are, as we will be, and as we were meant to be." Watch Lili's eight-minute speech below, and prepare to feel inspired.
Trader Joe's Now Has Cocoa Peppermint Creamer, and Yep, It's Vegan-Approved!
As the holiday season approaches, pumpkin spice gives way to peppermint-flavored everything. Nowhere is this more apparent than at Trader Joe's, which unveils tasty chocolate-peppermint treats such as Candy Cane Joe Joe's, peppermint ice cream cones, and chocolate peppermint almond beverage come Winter.
But why wait until dessert to enjoy the sweet taste of chocolate and peppermint together? Luckily, Trader Joe's understands our need for the flavors all day long and released a cocoa-peppermint-flavored coffee creamer just in time for the holiday season so we can enjoy it first thing in the morning. The best part? This creamer is dairy-free, meaning it's perfect for vegans and dairy-sensitive folks.
This coffee creamer sells for $2, and although the nutrition information isn't available, @traderjoesvegan on Instagram wrote, "I feel like the sweetness and creaminess is just right." If you want to enjoy the sweet taste of chocolate and peppermint with your coffee without splurging on a coffee shop peppermint mocha latte (which likely has dozens of grams of sugar), then pick up a carton of this on your next TJ's run.
A Trainer Says to Start Doing These 10 Exercises If You Want to Build Your Glute Muscles
When it comes to getting a bigger butt, doing a set of squats here and there just won't cut it. You're going to need to change your training plan to incorporate more strength training and booty-specific exercises. To get you started, Instagram influencer and trainer Bret Contreras, PhD, CSCS, came up with a list of the best exercises to build your glutes.
Because everyone has a different hip anatomy and glute architecture, Bret explained, "What works well for one person doesn't necessarily work for the other." If you haven't seen a change in your glutes with squats, don't give up - just experiment with another exercise.
Bret trains hundreds of clients a month with the goal of growing their glutes and said the following exercises will work best for most. When going through the exercises, Bret said, "think more about the movement patterns they represent," which will give you more of a variety with each exercise. For example, you can do glute bridges with just your bodyweight, with a resistance band around your knees, or with a dumbbell.
Now, it's time to start building that booty. Check out the exercises below and begin to incorporate them into your strength routine.
Related: According to a Trainer, These Are the 8 Reasons You Aren't Building Muscle
The Top 10 Glute Exercises
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