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.
lundi 19 novembre 2018
There Are New Exercise Guidelines For Americans, and They Are Totally Achievable
You know exercise is good for you, and it has so many health benefits beyond weight loss: it can help prevent disease, relieve anxiety, give you more energy, and help you sleep. But how much should you be doing a week? The new exercise recommendations, published on Nov. 12 in JAMA titled "The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans," were created by the Department of Health and Human Services and outline how much exercise the average American adult should do for overall health.
The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee came to these guidelines after conducting a "systematic review of the science supporting physical activity and health," according to the article in JAMA. The new guidelines, which are the first to be updated since 2008, say adults should do at least 150-300 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise, or 75-150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. They also recommend doing strength training activities (such as weightlifting or resistance training) two or more days a week.
"Recommendations emphasize that moving more and sitting less will benefit nearly everyone," the report said. "Individuals performing the least physical activity benefit most by even modest increases in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity."
If up to 300 minutes (five hours) of exercise a week sounds like a lot, the advisory committee defines moderate-intensity activity as brisk walking, playing volleyball, or raking the yard; basically, anything that gets you moving and gets your heart rate up from its resting pace. The minutes you spend walking quickly to your car, taking the stairs, and doing yard work all count.
Vigorous-intensity activity depends on the level of effort you put in, but is generally more intense exercises such as Spin classes, running, swimming, or doing a HIIT class, and you only need to do 75-150 minutes of this type of activity a week for overall health. But even light-intensity physical activity, such as walking slowly (2 mph or less) or light chores, add up and can provide health benefits, "especially if a person replaces sedentary behavior with light-intensity activity," the report states - just not as much as moderate or vigorous physical activity.
If you hate going to the gym or are dreading that HIIT class every morning, you could dial back your exercise and focus more on activities you actually enjoy: hiking with a friend, biking around the neighborhood, or swimming laps at the local pool. It all adds up and improves your overall health as opposed to just sitting on your couch.
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.
Greens + Chicken = Your New Go-To Healthy Meal
If there's one food that's most definitively associated with healthy eating, it's salad. And if there's one food that should be your go-to for diet-friendly lunches or dinners, it should be a salad topped with chicken.
By combining one of the leanest proteins with the OG healthy meal, you're ensuring that what you're eating is not only healthy - it's also delicious. And with the recipes below, you'll never run out of options - from upgrades on classics to inventive varieties all their own, these salad recipes prove that creative salads are making boring greens a thing of the past.
We Found 15 Gifts For People Who Love to Sleep, but Now We're About to Buy Them All For Ourselves
We spend a third of our lives sleeping, so it's vital that we get quality slumber whenever we can. Even if you yourself sleep like a log, you probably know someone who may be chronically tired or struggles with getting shut-eye. In fact, it's estimated that 68 percent of Americans struggle with sleep at least once a week. So, the next time you're shopping around for holidays and birthdays, why not skip the boxed candy and give the insomniac in your life something to help them sleep?
From lavender-vanilla lotion to weighted blankets, keep reading to see what products make great gifts for the restless in your life!
Do These 7 Things on Jan. 1 to Ease Your Anxiety For the Rest of the Year
New Year's Day 2019 is approaching, and once the celebrations have come to a close, the holiday can bring up a variety of mixed emotions for many people. Those of us who are prone to anxiety often experience fears and worries about what lies ahead in the new year, or we look back on the previous year and berate ourselves for not doing certain things differently.
If you have a sinking feeling that anxiety may strike on Jan. 1, it's beneficial to have a plan in place. We spoke to experts who weighed in on the best things to do on New Year's Day to ease anxiety and set the tone for a healthier, less anxious 2019. Here's what they had to say.
Keep These Diet-Busting Ingredients Out of Your Smoothie If You Want to Lose Weight
If weight loss is on your list of New Year's resolutions, you'll soon be putting together a healthy meal plan (let's just enjoy the holidays first, OK?), and no doubt there will be a few smoothies thrown in there. Smoothies are a great option for a healthy breakfast or snack because they are easy and quick and you can pack a lot of nutrition into just one glass.
Smoothies can quickly turn into dessert (and I don't mean this healthy blueberry cheesecake smoothie), though, if you aren't careful about what (and how much) you throw into your blender.
We spoke with holistic nutrition consultant Julia Visser to find out which foods to keep out of your smoothie if you're trying to keep it weight-loss friendly.
17 Low-Carb Recipes That Are So Simple, You'll Never Be Tempted by Takeout Again
There's nothing quite like the crush of work stress and family responsibilities to throw you off your weight-loss goals. When you need to satisfy a deadline-induced craving for a crunchy snack or throw together a weeknight dinner fast, it's essential to have simple, healthy recipes in your back pocket. These low-carb dishes will help you do just that. From make-ahead snacks like kale chips and roasted edamame to breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that require few ingredients or dishes, or very little prep time, you'll have everything you need to stay on track. Here's to a healthier, happier you - whatever the week throws your way.
Lots of People Love the Holidays - I Am Not 1 of Those People
For some, the holiday season cannot come soon enough. I am sure that there are many people out there who relish the opportunity to commence their holiday season festivities, regardless of the date. I am not one of those people. As unpopular of an opinion as it may be, I do not like the holiday season. What some see as the most magical time of year, I see as a time of year that often brings out feelings of deep melancholy and impending anxiety. I know that I will once again need to live through the arduous build up to a disappointing event that feels as if it will never be as meaningful and special as society tells me it should be.
I know that I will once again need to live through the arduous build up to a disappointing event that feels as if it will never be as meaningful and special as society tells me it should be.
It wasn't always like this. When I was younger, I truly believed in Santa and the magic of Christmas. I would write Santa earnest letters detailing my hopes and fears, which I left anchored to the table under the glass of milk laid out for his enjoyment when he and his reindeers came around to visit me in the outer boroughs of New York City. As time wore on and I began to feel skeptical of the logistical practicality of a man zipping all around the world in one night, I started to conduct experiments. One year, I left out a piece of bread and asked Santa to take a bite, just one, so that the next morning I could then instruct my father to also take a bite from the same slice and compare their bite marks. I thought about setting up a surveillance video camera somehow, certain that at some point during the night a jolly old man would come barreling through my chimney. Instead, I accepted the fresh indentation in the cushion of my couch as proof that he had, in fact, been there over the course of that December night.
I can remember the last Christmas my family had before my parents separated the following February. I was nine, and I can recall waking up with a pounding headache in my temples. I didn't feel well, a combination of over stimulation and physical discomfort that made me feel like I was running on fumes. I felt off, something wasn't right. Little did I know, (or maybe, somehow, I did), that this would be the last Christmas where my mother, father, brother, and I would be waking up under the same roof. After that, the holidays would never be the same.
Little did I know, (or maybe, somehow, I did), that this would be the last Christmas where my mother, father, brother, and I would be waking up under the same roof.
I come from a largely nonreligious family; my mother is culturally Jewish but not practicing, which meant no Hanukkah for us, and my father has his own liberally oriented religious beliefs that did not factor much into our home life. Because of this, our holiday celebrations were not moored in any religious belief or tradition. We observed Christmas in the way that I believe a lot of people do, unrelated to its religious origins and more as a holiday that is prominent in our culture and society. Without a large set of traditions to keep us tied to a classical observance of the holidays or a unified nuclear family, and with an extended family that did not see commemorating Christmas together as compulsory, the magic of the holidays began to slowly fizzle out for me. They became a source of discomfort and anxiety, as the world around me continued to constantly bombard my brain with content depicting how the holidays were supposed to be, a sad reminder that I did not fit into that mold.
The narrative of Christmas can be hard to escape; sometimes it feels like, come November and December, we exist within an echo chamber of holiday spirit. We live in a society that is saturated with images depicting the holiday season, often in a highly idealized, glossy, and picture-perfect iteration. We hear jolly songs that consistently manage to skillfully incorporate the sound of jingle bells, watch movies and TV specials starring happy families that live in beautiful suburban houses where it always snows at just the right time, consume special food and drink out of seasonally patterned cups, somehow managing to integrate the events of a few days into a seasonal lifestyle that ensures the buildup to the actual event will last as long as possible. The holidays can become completely pervasive, almost impossible to avoid up until the quiet days that follow Christmas have arrived and provide respite - when the sad, festively packaged goods that have gone unsold wind up on clearance shelves and dried up trees line the curb, covering the sidewalk in pine needles.
There is no right and wrong way to celebrate the holidays, and it is your prerogative how you will integrate them into your life. Never feel badly because your holidays do not look a certain way.
As I got older, I became more aware of my experiences. Eventually, I learned Santa wasn't real (unfortunately). I began to see the strain of carrying a holiday season on the back of my now single parents, tense days that were split up between my mom and dad. To me, the holidays became performative, people attempting to observe these designated days in a certain manner simply because we were indoctrinated to believe that there was the correct way to do so. I saw through it, conscious of the ritualistic effort and lack of unity in my home. And to make matters worse, underneath it all, I knew I still I longed for my family to be all together in matching leisure outfits, walking through a blanket of fresh snow somewhere in the woods, a towering Christmas tree in a cozy living room, and maybe even a pet dog wearing a Santa hat. But that was never going to happen for me. Coming to terms with the incongruence of my reality and the dream I had created with the help of society's hyperperfected reality made me sad. Fractured holidays passed year after year, and I continued to breathe a sigh of relief once they were finally over.
I am beginning to see the holidays differently now. I no longer live in the same city as my family, and for the first time in a long time, I am looking forward to going home for the holidays and spending time together, no matter what that looks like. It may mean getting Chinese food with my dad and my brother out by the airport in Queens or going to the movies with my mom and her fiancé, but as long as we can enjoy each other's company, I will be alright with its rendering. For all the other people out there who may also struggle during the holiday season, my advice to you is to focus on making holiday events fit the circumstances of your life, and not the other way around. There is no right and wrong way to celebrate the holidays, and it is your prerogative how you will integrate them into your life. Never feel badly because your holidays do not look a certain way. Ultimately, no matter how you spend the holidays, I hope that they bring you warmth, comfort, gratitude, and merriment.
Warning: These 55 Yankee Gift Swap Presents Are So Good, Everyone Will Be Fighting Over Them
For the fun, the wild, and the completely outrageous Yankee swaps going on this holiday season, these gifts are sure to take the cake for some of the most creative and wacky gifts in the game.
Cat calendars, bottle stopper gardening kits, and sloth-shaped mugs make these swap gifts range from totally creative to weirdly lovable.
We're sure you'll find exactly what you need for all of the quirky swaps you have this season. Shop them ahead!
There's a Reason Taylor Swift Swears by These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Back in 2014, Taylor Swift basically broke the internet by joining Tumblr and responding to diehard fans' questions. One fan may have asked the most important question - that is: what recipe does Taylor Swift use to bake her famous pumpkin chocolate chip cookies? Every Fall and Winter, the queen shares snaps of these freshly baked cookies and everyone goes crazy, wanting to just have one bite. Her holiday gift to fans for years to come was her answer: she uses this Food Network recipe by George Duran, except instead of milk chocolate chips, she uses semisweet or dark chocolate chocolate bars chopped up into chunks.
Whether or not you love her or her music, these cookies are sure to be a hit. The spicy notes of ginger and cloves paired with the ooey-gooey sweetness of melted chocolate is a match that can't be beat. Make these for your next holiday party, and we can almost guarantee you'll gain a reputation as a great baker among friends and family. Maybe you'll even start belting out, "Shake it off, shake it off!" when holiday family conversations get heated. In all seriousness, try baking these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and you'll understand our obsession. Get the recipe ahead!
30 Recipes That Will Convince You Brussels Sprouts Deserve a Starring Role This Thanksgiving
Brussels sprouts can be very polarizing - you either love them or you hate them and think they smell terrible. Or maybe you love them and still think they smell terrible, but the fact of the matter is that this little vegetable is so versatile and the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu. You can shred them and make a salad or roast them up as a side. Any way you make them, your holiday dinner guests will be thankful that you did. (Get it? Thankful on Thanksgiving? Anyways . . . ) Keep reading for 30 different ways you can whip up these brussels sprouts for a holiday meal or just tomorrow's dinner.
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.
Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet: How Much Food Is Needed Per Person?
As you are planning your Thanksgiving feast, here are a few handy cheat sheets (one without images and one with) to help you determine how much food you need to prep for each guest. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and prepare a little more than you think is necessary. Who ever complained about Thanksgiving leftovers?!
2018's Best Boozy Gifts Are So Good, Your Friends Will Raise a Glass in Thanks
When in doubt, bring a bottle. That's my philosophy when choosing gifts for friends who drink. But chances are, the cocktail lovers in your life have tastes that run beyond the everyday, so err on the side of top-notch liquors, limited-edition bottles, spirited books, and beautiful gear suited to their hobbies of choice. Maybe, if you're lucky, they'll share a drink with you in thanks.
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.
Stop What You're Doing - Disneyland Has a Chocolate Churro For the First Time Ever, and It's Crazy Good
Out of all of Disneyland's new 2018 holiday churros, there is one you can. not. miss. The brand-new chocolate churro with crushed pretzels and peppermint is a perfect mix of sweet and salty, but what really sets it apart from the cinnamon-coated pastry pack is that it's the first time Disneyland has served a true chocolate churro. I spoke with Nubia Renteria, pastry sous chef at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel, who confirmed to POPSUGAR that it's never been done before. "The chocolate churro is all chocolate - the dough itself is chocolate - it's dusted with cocoa powder and sugar and then glazed with a chocolate sauce, pretzels, and peppermint candies," Renteria said.
At the park, I made sure to try the hot new ticket in town, and it's absolutely delicious. While some seasonal flavors can be overly sweet, have an artificial aftertaste, or just get dusted in flavorless colored sprinkles for show, this crunchy churro is a uniquely flavored treat that is chocolaty without being too sweet. The only downside? It's a drippy mess to eat, so have those napkins handy!
In fact, it even beat out the s'mores churro with marshmallow dipping sauce as my favorite churro at the park! Even Renteria, who's been with Disney for 18 years, agrees. She called this "delicious" churro her new favorite - aside from the classic, of course.
The chocolate churro with crushed pretzels and peppermint is $5.25 and located at the Frontierland Churro Cart near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Keep reading to see more photos of the seasonal churros at Disneyland during the holidays!
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.
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.
How to Make Sure Your Turkey's Done If You Don't Have a Thermometer
If you don't have a meat thermometer and would rather not buy one just for Thanksgiving, there are a few steps you can take to make sure your turkey is fully cooked and not overcooked. According to the experts behind the Turkey Talk-Line at Butterball, this is exactly what you need to do to ensure a fully cooked yet still moist bird.
1. Find out the cooking time based on the weight of your turkey.
Using the turkey-cooking calculator is the easiest way to find out how long your turkey will need to cook based on its weight. A 20-pound turkey will take three and a half to four hours to cook at 325°F.
2. Don't peek!
Although it's tempting to check on your turkey, opening the oven only lowers the temperature and prolongs the process, potentially screwing up your initial estimated time. Keep the oven closed until you're about two-thirds of the way through to check on it for the first time. If the turkey breasts are getting too browned too quickly, cover the turkey in a tent of foil. If they don't look browned, feel free to skip that step.
3. Keep your eye on the thigh.
The deepest part of the thigh muscle is the very last part of the turkey to be done. The internal temperature should reach 180°F. To check for doneness without a thermometer, pierce the thigh and pay attention to the juices: if the juices run clear, it's cooked, and if the juices are reddish pink, it needs more time. Put the turkey back in the oven and check again after a short time.
dimanche 18 novembre 2018
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.
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.
Related: Your 2019 Travel Bucket List: 40 Spectacular Destinations to Visit in the New Year
I've Been on 50 Flights in the Past 2 Years - This Is How I Don't Get Sick
In the past two years, I've been on roughly 50 different flights, across different countries, states, airlines, and airports. It's not as glamorous as it sounds - in the first year, I got the flu four times, two weeks a pop! I began to dread flying, because it felt inevitable that my frail immune system would contract whatever germs were floating around in the air of the cabin.
And it's not just me - the journal BMC Infectious Diseases published a study on the role airports play in the transmission of influenza and pandemic threats. "Nucleic acid of at least one respiratory virus was detected in 9 out of 90 surface samples" in the examined airport, meaning about 10 percent of the things you touch in the airport have "at least" one virus. Sweet.
I decided to get proactive. Through research, trial and error, product testing, and talks with doctors, I created a defense guide on how to conquer air travel without picking up a nasty bug from your fellow passengers. Here's my go-to, must-do checklist I stick to every single time I travel. And, guess what? I haven't been sick once since I implemented this plan. Fly safe, my friends.
4 Things I Wish People Would Stop Saying to Single Women
I don't talk much about my personal life, especially on the internet. Why? Partly because I tend to be a pretty private person, but also because I'm a single woman in my 20s. Mentioning my singledom, whether to friends and family or in passing online inevitably leads to a slew of uninvited comments. It definitely doesn't help that I'm hitting that age where the people I used to eat lunch and talk about philosophy homework with are getting married and having children and posting it all over social media. And as genuinely nice as it is to have people asking about my life because they care about me, it's also a little much sometimes - and my other single friends seem to run into a lot of the same things. So what are some of the most common things I hear? Here we go.
1. "Let me set you up with my (friend/coworker/brother's roommate's cousin)"
While I appreciate the thought, I really wish people would stop immediately trying to play matchmaker. While blind dates might work for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, more often than not, they're awkward and forced and the parties don't actually turn out to have as much in common as the matchmaker thinks. Offers like these put me in an awkward spot: How do I gracefully decline without hurting your feelings or indirectly insulting your friend? If we're actually close enough friends that I would go to you for dating advice, I promise I'll ask you directly if I think that guy from your cooking class's group Insta photo is cute. Otherwise, please let it be.
2. "You must not be trying hard enough."
GIRL. Believe me, I have tried. I really have a hard time when people say this because it implies that dating is something like riding a bike or learning to speak French; an objective thing that can be "achieved" through sheer willpower and effort. But since you're dealing with complex things like emotions and other human beings with emotions and free will, dating is not anything like that. Some of the single people I know have tried endless dating apps and hobby groups and all the "right" things and are still single, while some of the happiest couples I know met with almost no effort whatsoever, like something out of a movie. You can't "try" to fall for someone or "try" to have a connection, either.
The corollary to this: I genuinely think people who say things like this don't realize how much pressure it can put on the single person they're talking to. For me, at least, I can get pretty up in my own head when it comes to dating, and it can be hard sometimes to remind myself that my single status is not a "failure" on my part, but a simple fact of circumstance. But when people say things like this, it puts me right back in that mindset - and that's not conducive to trying to date either.
3. "You're single? But you're so (fill in positive adjective)!"
Uh, thanks, I guess? I never know what to say with this one. It's like a weird backhanded compliment. But, surprise! Singledom is not the domain of the "flawed"; being single does not mean something is wrong with someone. Being attractive / smart / good at talking / whatever is not the only thing that's important in dating. I know you think it's a compliment, but from the other side of it, it doesn't really feel like one. Plus, it's super awkward to try to figure out a response to that. I can't say "thank you" because it's not really a compliment, but I feel like I should because it sort of is one. It's just uncomfortable. Honestly, I'd rather talk about something related to whatever that trait is - that way, I know you see me as a whole person, not just with the big label "SINGLE" above all else.
4. Anything about how unhappy I must be, aka variations on "Don't worry!"
OK, I'll admit it: sometimes I do worry about dying alone. I'm pretty sure everyone who feels romantic attraction worries, at some point, about never meeting the love of their life. But here's the thing: that doesn't mean life doesn't start until then. I'm passionate about my career and have a master's degree to prove it. I love my friends and family. I have hobbies I enjoy. Pop culture so often portrays romance as the "missing puzzle piece" or something like that, but I don't think of it like that. It's more like moving into a different sized apartment: there's nothing inherently wrong with a small one, life just expands in interesting ways.
The truth is, sometimes I'm unhappy about being single. The truth also is, sometimes I'm perfectly happy being single. There are even times when I'm unhappy and it has absolutely nothing to do with my relationship status. It's not a one-size-fits-all thing, and it's certainly not a small-talk topic of conversation. I get it: the people who say something along these lines really do care about me; they say it because they don't want me to be unhappy. Assuming I'm unhappy single, though, makes me feel like the other things I do aren't of value or aren't enough to make a person happy.
What all of this really boils down to is this: please stop making assumptions about me just because I'm single. A relationship is certainly something I want, but it's still super uncomfortable when everyone tries to give me unasked-for advice, and it puts me in an awkward spot because I know the questions and advice do come from a place of caring. But when it comes down to it, I'm so much more than my relationship status, and in most cases, I'd much rather talk about something related to my work or my hobbies or my friends. And someday when it's time to introduce a wonderful guy, I'll feel a lot better if I can feel comfortable knowing the first words out of my loved ones' mouths won't be "Oh, FINALLY!"
These Grooms Broke Out Into Choreography During Their First Dance, and OMG, Those Moves!
Trust us when we tell you: PJ and Noah aren't regular grooms, they're cool grooms! Some couples take ballroom dance classes to practice for their wedding, but these two, well, they did something spectacular for their first dance as husbands, and they've swept us right off our feet. They started off slow dancing to Morgana King's "It's a Quiet Thing," which is when we imagine they whispered into each other's ears about how the guests had no idea what they were about to witness. Then, what seemed like a technical difficulty unraveled into "Conga" by Miami Sound Machine and Gloria Estefan.
Related: 40+ Love Songs From 2018 to Get You Pumped Up on the Morning of Your Wedding Day
PJ and Noah played it totally cool at first, acting like they were handling the music snafu nonchalantly, but BOOM, just like that, they broke out their greatest moves and the real dance began with songs from Madonna, KC and the Sunshine Band, and more. These two are so talented, and it's clear they put so much love, dedication, and effort into making sure every single guest could feel their passion. We just feel bad for the next couple getting married in their family, because how does anyone compete with that?! To my future husband, I hope you're reading this and practicing your footwork. Watch the mesmerizing first dance above.
50 Things Only Book-Lovers Understand
Suffice to say, book-lovers are peculiar, sensitive, and wonderful creatures. Worshipping the likes of Hermione Granger and Rupert Giles, true book nerds have no shame in their love for reading and their emotional commitment to great characters. Don't take any offense if they turn down plans to finish a good book - they just have to know what's going to happen next! And if you happen to take them out, be careful around libraries and bookstores! You may not see them emerge until hours later with a stack of new books . . . even if their homes are already lined with literature of all sorts.
As a book-lover myself, I've compiled this comprehensive list of 50 things only the book-obsessed will understand. Keep reading to see if you display any tell-tale signs of a literary fanatic.
You'll Want to Steal These Communication Secrets From Happy Couples
When it comes to a happy partnership, lots of factors are at play. You might consider common interests, similar values, sexual chemistry (let's be real, here), and, of course, communication, the latter of which is super, super important for a flourishing, successful relationship. Here's why: the way you speak to each other determines how you provide each other respect, work through conflict, and enjoy as many happy moments together as possible. Yet it's hard work! Luckily, a few real-life couples shared their top tips for communicating well as teammates.
The Hottest Dark Fantasy Reads For Fall
From monsters and dragons to magic and dark superheroes, this Fall is full of mystical new reads. If you find yourself needing an escape from the real world before the holiday madness, spend the day (or week) getting lost in these adventurous and fantastical stories.
This Winter, Escape to 1 of These Awesome (and Affordable) Travel Destinations Across the US
If the thought of hibernating inside all Winter long makes you shiver, it's time to start planning your escape for when cold weather comes. And thanks to its massive size - 3.8 million square miles, to be exact - and incredible diversity, America is certainly the hot spot when it comes to wintertime travel. No matter if you're looking to flee the piles of snow or flock to them, this country oozes with adventure for every type of wanderer. So go ahead, pack your bags. We've combed through each state and listed an array of dazzling destinations, guaranteed to satisfy your bubbling wanderlust. All you have to do is decide which place to choose first!
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.
6 Signs Your Bottle of Wine's Gone Bad
Not all wine is ideal for storing. If it's been in contact with air for too long or has a tainted cork, the liquid inside has turned and should not be consumed. Here are a handful of telltale signs that might indicate a good wine has gone bad.
- The smell is off. If a wine's aroma is moldy or resembles a musty basement, wet cardboard, or vinegar, it's turned. A heavy raisin smell is another bad signal.
- The red wine tastes sweet. If the bottle of red wine has the aroma of Port or tastes like dessert wine (even though it is neither of those two things), it has been overexposed to heat, and is therefore undrinkable.
- The cork is pushed out slightly from the bottle. That's a sign the wine has overheated and expanded within the bottle.
- The wine is a brownish color. A brown hue in red wine demonstrates that the liquid is past its prime. White wines that have darkened to a deep yellow or brownish straw color are usually oxidized.
- You detect astringent or chemically flavors. Wine that lacks fruit, is raspy, too astringent, or has a paint-thinner taste is usually bad.
- It tastes fizzy, but it's not a sparkling wine. A still wine that is fizzy or effervescent has undergone a second fermentation after the bottling and shouldn't be enjoyed.
One last word of advice: Always smell and examine the actual liquid. Although the term "corked" commonly refers to tainted wine, inspecting the cork alone will not determine if the wine has gone bad. Use your other senses. Have you ever had an undrinkable bottle of wine? How did you know it was questionable?
25+ Thoughtful Gifts That Give Back
In the season of giving, take the extra step to find a gift that will do more than one person good. Whether that's one other recipient or a hundred who can benefit, pay it forward with a present that gives back. There are tons of products and companies with this mission in mind, and we've found some of our favorites so that all you have to do is choose. It doesn't hurt that the items range from stylish to practical, either. Look ahead to see 29 charitable gifts that you won't feel guilty buying all for yourself.
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.
Related: Your 2019 Travel Bucket List: 40 Spectacular Destinations to Visit in the New Year
Target's Got Everything a Guy Could Want For the Holidays (and Then Some)
While a majority of people are happily decking the halls with boughs of holly, the holiday-shopping-related stress has fully set in for the rest of us. With so many people to shop for and things to choose from, it can often feel overwhelming.
When looking for the perfect presents for the guys on your list, you need to find out what they want and what they will actually use. Luckily, Target has such a great selection of things that any guy on your list will not only want and use but also adore for years to come.
Make the holidays less stressful . . . starting now!
Anyone Who Has Terribly Behaved Pets Absolutely Needs This Christmas Tree Cage
How to protect the Christmas tree from catsNot this year....
Posted by Life is Good on Monday, November 12, 2018
As a person who already has the Christmas music station on at work, I revel in the time I get to spend decorating my apartment for the holiday. I recently pulled all my Christmas decorations out of the closet - two full weeks late! - and started sprucing up my space with holiday cheer. After cursing my fiancé for making me wait so long to put them up, I scampered off to bed to count sugarplums.
It was 2 a.m. when I realized I really f*cked up. I immediately woke up to the sound of glass hitting the floor, ran to the living room, and saw my two 11-month-old cats - Mrs. Dumbledore and Gandalf - scaling the tree with all my not-very-expensive ornaments at the foot of the tree. Yup, those two birds knocked every single bulb off the lower branches of my fake Christmas tree.
But you know what could've prevented the hours of cat "hockey" I heard at 2 a.m.? This ridiculously easy hack for your Christmas tree. All you do is take a dog cage, flip it on its side, and voilà! You've got yourself a tree cage that protects your holiday spirit from the most notorious offenders. Read: cats, dogs, and little kids alike. Oh, how I wish I figured this out before putting my own tree up!
Heads Up, Holiday Shoppers: Ikea Has Some Amazing Holiday Gifts - Starting at $2!
Holiday shopping just got a lot easier this year, thanks to Ikea. With prices as low as $2 and $3 for tasteful holiday presents for even the hardest to shop for, everyone on your list will be floored by these affordable gifts. Check out trinkets, room decor, and functional pieces for any part of the house. This festive season, don't just stock up on holiday decor at Ikea, check off your gift list as well!
Related: Ikea Is Offering a New (Assembly-Free!) Toy Line This Fall, Just in Time For Holiday Gifting
21 Unique Gifts That Will Leave Recipients Saying, "Wow, You're So Thoughtful!"
When you're buying a gift for somebody you care about, don't go the generic route. The best way to show someone you put thought into a present is by finding something unique to give them. There are so many innovative products out there that will blow your mind. Whether the recipient is a techie, couch potato, world traveler, kitchen connoisseur, or avid reader, we've got items that will thrill them. These gifts are perfect for holidays and birthdays, plus they work for all ages. Basically, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. Get to shopping now so you're prepared!
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.
Related: These 29 Thanksgiving Side Dishes Are So Good, You'll Forget About the Turkey
This Winter, Escape to 1 of These Awesome (and Affordable) Travel Destinations Across the US
If the thought of hibernating inside all Winter long makes you shiver, it's time to start planning your escape for when cold weather comes. And thanks to its massive size - 3.8 million square miles, to be exact - and incredible diversity, America is certainly the hot spot when it comes to wintertime travel. No matter if you're looking to flee the piles of snow or flock to them, this country oozes with adventure for every type of wanderer. So go ahead, pack your bags. We've combed through each state and listed an array of dazzling destinations, guaranteed to satisfy your bubbling wanderlust. All you have to do is decide which place to choose first!
Sour Patch Kids Cereal Is Hitting Shelves Next Month, and My Taste Buds Are Already Tingling
I'm a sour candy girl, through and through. When I'm in the mood for sweets, I'll pucker up with joy as I gravitate toward the gummy, tongue-tingling varieties. So, when rumors of a Sour Patch Kids cereal started swirling, you bet my interest was piqued. Now it's official: the cereal is hitting shelves in December! Post Cereal and the candy brand teamed up to give shoppers candy for breakfast, and hey, no complaints here.
Sure, the idea of a bowlful of Sour Patch Kids may send your taste buds into a frenzy, but dessert for breakfast is no novel concept. Oreo, Nutter Butter, and Chips Ahoy cookies have all made their way into the cereal aisle. If you're intrigued by the thought of a sweet-and-sour treat first thing in the morning, keep an eye on Walmart shelves starting Dec. 26. These $4 boxes will be popping up toward the end of the year, and then resurfacing in June 2019 at other major retailers.
This Dog Prances Around the House Like a Rabbit, and We Can't Stop Watching
Although the internet can often be a weird, scary place, it can also be a great place to slip down a rabbit hole chock-full of hilarious and heartwarming pet videos. Speaking of rabbits - our latest obsession? This adorable 7-year-old pup from Ireland named Swiper, who hops around just like a bunny.
While Swiper's prancing around is certainly adorable, the backstory as to why she does it isn't quite as sweet. According to her owner, Sabia Kelly, Swiper was bitten by a bigger dog when she was just 8 weeks old, resulting in brain trauma. But rather than putting Swiper to sleep, Sabia took her in and nursed her back to health. And obviously, her pup's strange way of getting around never bothered her.
Seven years later, Swiper is truly living the good life. "She loves playing outside - she is a wee joy to have in our lives," Sabia told BuzzFeed. "She is so loved in our house - I don't think I've ever seen a dog like her [with] all of her wee quirks."
Scroll through to get a look at how Swiper jumps around the house, and try not to squeal with delight.
Add This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe to Your Thanksgiving Dinner Menu
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!
Wow Your Dinner Guests With 30+ Totally Creative Thanksgiving Recipes
This year is the year! Toss your boring Thanksgiving dishes out the window and try something new and crazy and fun. Regular mashed potatoes? Nope. Standard stuffing? Not this year. Roasted whole turkey? We're making a turkey purse this year. We're not kidding. It's a turkey purse. (You'll have to keep reading to learn more about it.)
Wow your dinner guests with any of the 31 recipes ahead, which all take a dish you're used to and put a new spin on it. Some of them might even be something you would have never even thought of trying, and that's what makes them exciting. Your guests will thank you for such an amazing holiday experience. We promise!
22 Stocking Stuffers Every Fashion Girl Will Obsess Over This Year - All Under $50
Filling up a stocking with standout gifts is the best feeling, especially when you're not so keen on (or good at) wrapping presents. To help you figure out exactly what to pick up, we found the trendiest (and most affordable) gifts every fashion girl will flip for. Whether the gal you have in mind could use a new bag or is obsessed with all things furry and fuzzy, we found 21 selections she'll go crazy for. And the best part is, they're all under $50. We just can't make any promises that you won't be tempted to scoop up a few pieces for yourself.
- Additional reporting by Rebecca Brown
16 Holiday-Ready Pieces We're Buying From Loft - All For Less Than $100
Loft just dropped its newest holiday collection, and it's a floral-print-lover's dream. The stylish line proves that pretty flower prints can be worn any season and for every occasion. Ahead, we curated a list of its cutest looks so all you have to do is shop. From dresses to scarves and even clutches, these picks are perfect to rock during the holidays and even to gift. The best part: they come in a wide range of sizes from petites to curvy choices and are all under $100. Keep reading to shop the amazing picks before you're too late.
17 Curve Model Swimsuit Moments That Have Us Saying, "Did Someone Turn Up the Heat?!"
Body diversity is gradually moving to the forefront in the fashion community. We're seeing models in all shapes and sizes star in ad campaigns, and saying that it feels good is an understatement. This year has been a particularly great year for body diversity with curve models like Kate Wasley, Iskra Lawrence, and Emma Sanders shaking things up with their steamy bikinigrams. In 2018, we've seen so many amazing swimsuit moments - thanks to these amazing curve models - and it's only right that we take a look back at them. Ahead you can find 17 steamy swimsuit moments that have us believing 2018 might just be the hottest year yet.
Don't Let Emily Ratajkowski's Cropped Sweater Distract You From How Sexy Her Shoe Game Is
Whether she's sporting a smoking-hot bikini or a skintight dress, Emily Ratajkowski turns heads just about everywhere she goes - including her appearance at GQ Australia's Men of the Year Awards. The supermodel hit the red carpet at Sydney's The Star wearing a Paco Rabanne checkered, unbuttoned top that gave us all a very clear view of her killer abs.
She paired the top with a silver metallic skirt in a similar pattern and finished things with a pair of silver, strappy Jimmy Choo heels that only served as a reminder of how her sexy shoe game remains unmatched. Keep reading to see more photos of Emily's look at the Men of the Year Awards, topped off with Nataf Joaillerie jewels, and to shop similar shoe styles.
These Are the Affordable POPSUGAR at Kohl's Pieces Fashion Girls Are Flippin' For
Since we love to try and test out new products - especially clothes - what better way to show off the new pieces from our POPSUGAR at Kohl's collection than to go right to the source? I enlisted the trusty opinions of our editors to uncover the best pieces from the latest drop.
Our shopping editor, Krista Jones, can't stop snuggling up in this supersoft teddy bear coat, and our social media strategist, Amanda McKelvey, is planning on buying this star-print velour sweater because it gives her major '90s vibes. Want to know the best part? All of these picks are all under $100 so you don't have to worry about breaking the bank. Read on to see all of these fashion-girl-approved pieces we can't get enough of, and shop the latest drop ahead.
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