Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
dimanche 25 novembre 2018
Hatchimals Released a $20 Advent Calendar, and Welp, There’s Our Kids’ First Presents
Since 2016, our homes have been breeding grounds for new Hatchimals - both the large interactive creatures and the tiny blind bag collectible versions - and knowing our kids and their interests, we're sensing no signs of a slowdown. This is why we know our little ones are going to be beyond pumped over the brand's Advent calendar for this holiday season, which includes exclusive CollEGGtibles characters that your kids won't see in any other blind bag egg sets, nor on their favorite unboxing YouTube channels.
The Advent calendar contains 24 slots full of over 50 Hatchimals surprises to discover, including paper crafts and stickers that turn the calendar itself into a holiday Winter wonderland. Check out photos of the calendar ahead, and get a sneak peek at some of the creatures your child can find inside.
10 Ways to Show Your Kids the True Meaning of Christmas - Without the Gifts
Is there anything quite as magical as Christmas morning? Kids run downstairs at the crack of dawn, eager to get to the presents Santa has left them under the tree. And as parents, we get to watch our little ones rip open their gifts with huge smiles on their faces. Because it's so fun to give and receive, it can be really easy for kids to focus on gifts and forget about everything else that makes Christmas so special. They can overlook the truly special moments of the season, like spending time with family, helping others in need, and being thankful for everything and everyone they already have in their lives.
The truth is, when I look back on my own childhood Christmases, I barely remember any of the gifts I was given. What I do remember are the moments spent with friends and family and all of the other things that got me in the Christmas spirit. So this holiday season, try doing some of these activities with your kids to show them that Christmas is about so much more than just gifts.
Lego Is Making Building Sets For Adults, and We Can Feel Our Stress Melting Away
After working all day in your office or running around like a crazy person ensuring your kiddos get to every soccer practice, flute lesson, or choir rehearsal, sometimes mom and dad need to take a load off. But rather than reaching for that late-night glass of Pinot Noir or queuing up Netflix, Lego has another option for parents who need to veg out: just-for-adults building sets.
According to Indiegogo, the kits will be part of the brand new Lego Forma line, which aims to help stressed out adults unwind at the end of a busy day. Lego's senior marketing manager Kari Vinther Nielsen said, "Inside each of us there's a fundamental desire to be creative and a unique need to use our hands. When we reflected on those needs, we recognized there's an inherent relaxation that comes from these activities."
The Forma sets comes in Koi, Shark, or Splash Koi models, or you can go your own route by creating a customizable Ink Koi Skin. There will also be a mega box that contains all four model options for Lego-obsessed adults. Read through to get a look at these incredible 294-piece sets that will ready to ship in the US in January 2019.
We Have 44 Unique Holiday Gifts - You Won't Believe What We Found
Sometimes you feel compelled to do more during the gift-giving season than just hand someone a pair of socks and a new lip balm. You want to see them "ooh" and "ahh," and then you likely want to see them rush to use the thing you've just given them. So whether you suspect a massive 8-foot bean chair would be up their alley, or have a diehard Game of Thrones fan who already has every t-shirt they'd ever need, we have 44 holiday gifts that are sure to put a smile on their face. And yours.
Don't Even Try to Travel Without These Helpful New Products This Holiday Season
With so many new products released one after the other, all with the intention of making our parenting lives easier, it can be hard to sift through to find the new products worth our hard-earned dollars. Because the holiday season is fast-approaching, we're all in on the products that make traveling with kiddos more bearable and less stressful.
See some of our travel picks below (and one that isn't so much for traveling per se, but is so Insta-worthy, we couldn't not give it a mention)!
55 Beauty Gifts (Under $50) to Grab Before They're Gone
Tis the time to start holiday shopping - yes, already. There's no such thing as starting too early, right? At the very least, steal some inspo and get a list going. Every year the ante is upped on the gifting front, and this season is certainly no exception. No matter where you fall on the spectrum (novice or pro), a beauty gift is a winning bet. If your bestie's idea of a productive weekend is spiraling deep into Instagram makeup feeds, or if you know someone who really needs some old-fashioned R&R, there's a gift to suit. And with this mix of options, that are as bomb as they are budget-friendly, you may even have a little left over to pick something out for yourself. Holiday happiness starts right here.
- Additional reporting by India Yaffe
We're Seeing Stars Over Milk Makeup's Limited-Edition Astrology Beauty Stamps
We've seen the Milk Makeup Beauty Stamps all over social media, but we weren't prepared for this. Just in time for the holidays, it's launched limited-edition Astrology Beauty Stamps! There's one for every sign, so whether you're a passionate Aries or a fun-loving Libra, you'll be represented. Plus, the product itself is so much fun to use and allows you to express yourself with makeup in a really unique way. It's also transfer-proof, water-resistant, and vegan; your makeup won't budge, and you'll be doing animals a favor. Astrology devotees and beauty fans alike are going to swoon over this collection, so hurry and shop before they're gone!
12 Beauty Moments That Pushed Major Boundaries in 2018
The turn of the new year tends to put us in this funny mental juxtaposition of past, present, and future. It causes us to look far into the months ahead of us as we contemplate goals, while also begging us to consider how the past 12 months have transformed our world in ways we may not even fully appreciate yet. This is true for everything ranging from important events to milestones to, yes, notable moments that happened in the beauty community. Today, we're focusing on exactly that, partially because it's fun to remember all those "she did what?" moments and also because it allows us to see how those very moments shaped the months that followed and are yet to come.
The Sephora Black Friday 2018 Deals Are Insane - Products Are $15 or Less!
As avid shoppers, we are beyond excited for Black Friday deals, especially the beauty ones. Sephora is offering incredible beauty sets from Tarte, Benefit, Kat Von D, and more - all $15 or less. We rounded up the deals so that you know what to score this weekend. With prices this good, you'll have an overflowing cart.
65 Pictures of the Tindall Family That'll Make You Wish You Were Growing Up Royal, Too
What's the one thing that's even cuter than Mike and Zara Tindall's many public displays of affection? How about their family moments? The royal couple have been spotted on many occasions having fun with their young daughter Mia, and now that they've welcomed a second little girl to the family, we're looking forward to more memorable moments to come with Lena. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis might be the most famous kids in the British royal family, but Mia Tindall is giving them a run for their money. Whether she's playing with her dad, cuddling up to her mom, or hanging out with her grandma Princess Anne, this tiny royal is definitely living her best life. Just keep reading for proof.
Fantastic Beasts: This Is How Leta Lestrange Is Actually Connected to Bellatrix
Warning: BIG spoilers for Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald ahead!
If there's one thing Harry Potter fans cannot abide, it's a mystery left unchecked. But we all know J.K. Rowling loves to throw curveballs that we don't expect, and with the release of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, she throws quite a few. From the appearance of a professor who seems to be Minerva McGonagall to the the film's biggest twist (that Credence Barebone is actually a Dumbledore . . . like, WHAT?!) there was a lot that left us digging into our Potter lore to figure out what's what. But perhaps the biggest head-scratcher of them all was everything surrounding Leta Lestrange - namely her relation to another very famous family member, Bellatrix Lestrange.
On her own, Leta is probably one of the best characters to come out of the Fantastic Beasts sequel. When we first hear of her, she's simply known as the former flame of Newt Scamander and the possible sister of Credence Barebone (yeah, he's been thrown around a bit). We delve deeper into Leta's backstory in The Crimes of Grindelwald, where we learn that she's a child of rape (so not Credence's sister after all), and that her half-brother actually drowned as an infant. Of course, after delivering that tragic bit of information, Leta sacrifices herself to save Newt and company, when she's seemingly killed by Grindelwald in the climax of the film.
Leta's tragic story is pretty much on par with her family's dark reputation. Similar to the Blacks and Malfoys, the Lestranges are one of the original Sacred Twenty-Eight (truly pureblood families) and are known for their extreme wealth, pureblood supremacy, and practice of the Dark Arts. Funnily enough, the most famous Lestrange is one only by marriage, and despite really adorable Instagram photos that make us wish it so, there is no blood relation between Leta and Bellatrix whatsoever. At most, Leta and Rodolphus Lestrange (Bellatrix's husband) are very distant cousins. After all, Leta dies - again: seemingly - before getting married to Thesus Scamander and never has any children, meaning that she couldn't be a direct ancestor of Rodolphus and that he must come from a different section of the Lestrange family. Even if Leta winds up living and getting married to Thesus (or any other wizard), any children she would have would take their father's name and not hers. So none of the Lestranges born after her time could be her children.
To be fair to fans, it seemed like there may have been plans before to connect the two more directly. In 2017, Kravitz told The Independent that she was playing Bellatrix's great-great aunt. So unless Rowling pulls another big twist during any of the remaining Fantastic Beasts movies where Leta is revealed to be alive and married to one of her cousins (she's a pureblood, so that could definitely a thing), it's safe to say that the Bellatrix connection is a very distant one. Plus, Leta was definitely the black sheep of the Lestrange family; it's doubtful Bellatrix would enjoy any association with her!
Nashville's Lennon Stella on Growing Up and Her "Graceful Evolution" Into a Solo Career
Image Source: Getty / Joe Maher
If you've watched Nashville, then you probably already know Lennon Stella's name. The 19-year-old singer and her real-life sister, Maisy, played Maddie and Daphne Conrad on the hit show and eventually rose to stardom with their addicting music covers. Now that the series has officially ended, Stella is forging her own way as a solo artist with a fresh new sound. In addition to releasing a few catchy singles, she recently teamed up with One Direction's Liam Payne and Jonas Blue for the song "Polaroid." And that's just the beginning.
Not only does she have a few concerts lined up (which are already sold out, by the way), but she also has a brand-new EP called Love, Me out on Nov. 16. I recently had a chance to sit down with the rising star at the Hyatt Centric Times Square for its first Sofar Sounds concert event, where she discussed all the exciting things she has in store and how being on Nashville helped spark her career as a solo artist.
Image Source: Getty / Jason Kempin
POPSUGAR: It's been a crazy year with Nashville ending and you pursuing a solo career. After being on the show for so many seasons and growing up in the spotlight, did you feel like you needed to reintroduce yourself to fans in a way?
Lennon Stella: Yeah, in a way, for sure. Because the music I was making on the show is so different than the music I'm making now. And the music from the show was a character. It wasn't me, so definitely. I tried to gracefully bring everyone along and have them continue being fans of my new solo stuff. But, yeah, it was definitely something I took into consideration because it is - I didn't want to have it be this shocking change. But that was always me, and I feel like I didn't ever really want it to be much of a transition anyway, just kind of more like a graceful evolution.
PS: How would you say that being on Nashville shaped your career as a solo artist?
LS: I think being on the show really allowed me to just experiment and really create and just discover what music I wanted to make. And I think that the show - it was the biggest reason why I was able to do that because I was on the show for so long and I was able to just figure out what I don't like and what I do like. I don't think I would've done that if I wasn't on a TV show because I would've gotten so antsy.
PS: Who would you say are some of your biggest influences?
LS: Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac is my all-time favorite. Lyrically, Andy Shauf. I love his lyrics. I love The Japanese House, Julie Bella, Bazzi. Yeah, that kind of vibe when it's more the sound of the overall thing. But I think as far as songwriting, I really like Bob Dylan.
PS: You've had a few new singles out lately, but I know you're also releasing an EP. How would you describe your new music?
LS: I guess it's kind of like pop, but they have a heaviness to them for sure. I think lyrically they have just a bit of weight. Like a bit of sadness to them. There's two new songs that'll come when the EP comes, and they're a little more upbeat, but they all have a weight to them. Every song, even if it's a fun dance-y song, there's a sadness to it, which I'm just drawn to.
PS: You're very open with your fans, and I feel like you're great at interacting with them on social media. What has that been like to kind of see their positive response to your new music?
LS: I honestly sit and read my DMs nonstop. Comments and DMs are obviously so nice, but having it be specifically about something that I've been working on for so long and having it resonate with them like it does with me is just so crazy and so cool to me. Like "Breakaway," for instance. Those ones specifically are just really a hard time that I was going through, and I wrote them for myself really. And I put it out, and I didn't expect people to relate as much as they did. So many people have said that "it's like you just took the words out my mouth," and I'm just like, that's so crazy because it's like we all feel the same things. It's really cool having them out in the world, and just the overall reaction has been awesome.
PS: I feel like a lot of your comments are always like, "I feel like we're best friends."
LS: Yeah. Which is the coolest thing. Every single person that DMs me feels like we're friends, which is so cool and I will forever keep that. I mean, I hope that stays that way forever. If feels like we're all just swimming together, and I think it's a cool thing and it feels rare. With social media, it's just hard to keep that where it feels super connected, so it's really important to me for sure.
PS: Do you have any big career goals you really want to achieve in the next year?
LS: Definitely in this next year an album and get that really locked in. As of now, there's so many songs that we just kind of have that I've just been writing for so long and so many that I love. But I think just kind of writing more and getting it all out of my system and then just focusing and narrowing it down to an album's worth of stuff and packaging it all together. That's the next thing in my brain is an album and then touring the album.
22 Times Kim Kardashian Got Naked For the World This Year
Kim Kardashian is known for pushing the limits when it comes to sharing sexy photos of her body, but this year, she certainly took things up a notch. We're well aware that the year isn't exactly done yet, but in just January alone, Kim posted ten NSFW snaps on social media. That must be some kind of record, right? From sizzling topless shots to mirror selfies, it's clear to see that Kim loves showing off her body. Can you really blame her, though? She looks amazing!
If You're Already in a Sappy Holiday Mood, Netflix Has Plenty of Festive Rom-Coms
With the sun setting at depression o'clock and a crisp chill in the air, there's no better time to cuddle up and binge-watch a ton of Netflix. A true friend who never lets you down, the streaming service is already stacked with new original holiday movies, plus an entire slate of classics that'll hold you over for quite some time. And for all you amorous angels out there, we have even more exciting news: within the selection is a whole bunch of romantic comedies, from Love Actually to A Christmas Prince! Get ready to swoon.
The Queen Ordered Charles and Diana's Divorce and More Dramatic Details You Didn't Know
Prince Charles and Princess Diana pose with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in March 1981, shortly after their engagement. Image Source: Getty / Hulton Royals Collection
The relationship between Prince Charles and Princess Diana was tumultuous, to say the least; they met after Charles first dated Diana's older sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and only went on 12 dates before getting engaged in February 1981 and tying the knot five months later. By late 1992 (after collective affairs and embarrassing leaked audio conversations), Charles and Diana's 11-year marriage was a disaster - and the royal family couldn't hide it anymore.
Charles's parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, met with the couple for an intervention of sorts. Philip and Diana exchanged heartfelt letters that Summer in which he expressed his disappointment at both her and Charles's extramarital affairs and asked her to see both of their slip-ups from the other's point of view; at one point he seemed ready to give up, writing, "I will always do my utmost to help you and Charles to the best of my ability. . . but I am quite ready to concede that I have no talent as a marriage counselor." Their attempts at reconciliation were unsuccessful, and that December, Prime Minister John Major publicly announced the pair's "amicable separation," reading an official statement from the royal family.
Diana and Charles looked less than enthused during their royal tour of Canada in October 1991. Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
After their separation, more rumors of cheating emerged, and Diana conducted a tell-all interview with the BBC's Martin Bashir in which she disclosed details about her own infidelity and struggle with bulimia as well as Charles's affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, making the famous quote, "There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded." Ultimately, Elizabeth gave up too - likely fed up with doing damage control for Charles and Diana's cheating scandals and the blowback from Diana broadcasting their business, she sprung into action. On Dec. 20, 1995, Buckingham Palace announced that the queen had written separate letters to the couple ordering them to divorce ASAP, an unprecedented move at the time. "After considering the present situation, the queen wrote to both the prince and princess earlier this week and gave them her view, supported by the Duke of Edinburgh, that an early divorce is desirable," a palace statement said. It added that both Elizabeth and Philip would "continue to do all they can to help and support the Prince and Princess of Wales, and most particularly their children, in this difficult period." Charles agreed formally in writing soon after, but it took Diana until February to announce her agreement after negotiations with Charles and representatives for Elizabeth and until July for the couple to agree on the terms of their divorce.
Queen Elizabeth reportedly wanted to let Diana keep the style of her royal highness, but Charles was "adamant" that she give it up.
Their divorce was finalized in August 1996, but some drama surrounding her title ensued. Queen Elizabeth reportedly wanted to let Diana keep the style of her royal highness, but Charles was "adamant" that she give it up - instead, she was given the title Diana, Princess of Wales. The loss of the honorific separated Diana from the rest of the family in such a way that she had to curtsy to those that had it, including her own children. Heartbreakingly, a 14-year-old Prince William is said to have comforted his mother after the loss of her title by saying, "Don't worry, Mummy, I will give it back to you one day when I am king."
Diana, Harry, William, and Charles watch a parade in London in March 1995. Image Source: Getty / AFP
Diana was allowed to keep her apartment at Kensington Palace - which now serves as the official residence of William, Kate Middleton, and their two children - as "a central and secure home for The Princess and the children." She was given access to the royal family's jets and was able "to use the state apartments at St. James's Palace for entertaining," as long as asked the queen's permission first. She was also permitted to keep all the jewelry she amassed during her marriage, with the exception of the Cambridge Lover's Knot tiara, which Elizabeth gave to her as a wedding present after only wearing it once. It was lent to Kate Middleton in both 2015 and 2016.
Buckingham Palace publicly stated that as the mother of heirs to the throne, Diana would continue to be regarded as a member of the royal family and "will from time to time receive invitations to state and national public occasions" at the invitation "of the sovereign or the Government." She and Charles were granted equal access to Prince William and Prince Harry, who were 14 and 11 at the time, respectively, and the boys alternated holidays with each of their parents when they weren't attending boarding school. Things seemed to be civil between Charles and Diana as they worked together to coparent their boys after the divorce and up until Diana's death in August 1997. During an inquest into the tragedy in January 2007, Deputy Coroner of the Queen's Household Baroness Butler-Sloss said, "I am satisfied that at her death, Diana Princess of Wales continued to be considered as a member of the Royal Household."
How Many Great-Grandchildren Does the Queen Have? Get to Know Her Smallest Royal Relatives
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are expecting their first child, and along with the potential of earning a fancy title and A-list godparents, the new addition will also be joining an elite squad of adorable (and slightly mischievous) royal cousins when they become the queen's eighth great-grandchild.
As you may know, Queen Elizabeth II has four children - Charles, Anne, Andrew, and Edward - who have two kids each. So, who are the youngsters that the queen is proud to call her great-grandchildren? Keep reading to learn more about Her Majesty's seven smallest relatives before they become a pack of eight!
32 Flawless Gifts For That Friend Who Wishes She Were Beyoncé
Chances are you've got someone in your inner circle who is completely and utterly obsessed with Beyoncé (here's a handy guide to help you tell for sure). With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to get started on your search for great gifts for everyone on your list, including those flawless individuals who live and breathe for the Beyhive and will never stop singing "Drunk in Love" or "APES**T" at the top of their lungs. We've rounded up some fierce holiday gifts for the biggest Beyoncé fan in your life; keep reading to see and shop them all now.
Here Are 29 Prince Harry Facial Expressions For Every Holiday Mood
Prince Harry is arguably one of the most expressive British royals. We've always known that he has a humorous side, but it seems like this year, we really got to see just how funny he is. When he wasn't dramatically swatting flies, jokingly being overprotective of Meghan Markle, or letting everyone know that his wife is one of a kind, he was simply showing his feelings through some pretty priceless facial expressions. And since there are just way too many hilarious snapshots of Prince Harry, we've compiled some of the best ones that inadvertently encapsulate holiday sentiments. Read on to see how the Duke of Sussex perfectly represents the spirit of the season.
44 Snaps of Prince Charles and Princess Diana You Might Not Have Seen Before
Prince Charles and Princess Diana had a tumultuous, scandal-ridden marriage that spanned the 15 years between 1981 and 1996, when their divorce finally became official. While their union was marked with embarrassing rumors and affairs, there's nothing brighter than their children, William and Harry, to shed light over the dark spot that was cast by their split. Sadly, Diana was killed in a car accident in 1997, while Charles went on to marry Camilla, now the Duchess of Cornwall, in 2005. But the pair's former relationship will always be an important part of the royal family's history. Ahead, revisit some of their many moments together, including their wedding day and the joyful snaps after their sons' births.
Revisit the Albums of Christmas Past With These '90s Holiday Tunes
There's nothing quite like the feeling of nestling down into a warm blanket and listening to a good Christmas album during the holiday season. Although there are plenty of newly released tracks for you to cheerfully jam out to, they simply can't replace any of the classic '90s holiday-themed LPs. We still play Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas" on a loop, and Boyz II Men's a cappella rendition of "Silent Night" is downright poetic. That decade graced us with quite a few notable melodies, and we're taking a look back at some of the most memorable ones.
22 Saved by the Bell Stocking Stuffers For Those With Bayside Pride
The holiday season is right around the corner, and if you're stuck in a rut when it comes to buying your '90s TV-loving friends and family a good gift, fear not. There are tons of options for paraphernalia from one of the most popular shows of that era: Saved by the Bell. The classic series might have ended in 1993, but that doesn't mean we've forgotten about all of the fun shenanigans Zack, Kelly, Slater, Screech, Lisa, and Jessie used to get themselves into. The show will live on in our hearts, and now, it can also live on as a stocking stuffers. If you're wondering where to even look for Saved by the Bell-inspired presents, it's alright, 'cause you're saved by the POPSUGAR gift guide. Read on to see some of the best items that would make our favorite Bayside teens proud.
25 Gifts For People Who Still Wish Barack Obama Was President
It's almost been two years since Barack Obama officially left the White House, but many of us are still reeling from his departure. Thankfully, the holidays are almost here and we've gathered the best gift ideas to help ease the pain a little bit. From art prints to clothing to bakeware items, there are so many fun items to choose from. We suggest you get your credit card ready!
We're All Out of Sarcastic Comments, So Here Are 10 Gifts For the Chandler Bing Fan in Your Life
Friends may have ended its run back in 2004, but thanks to the magic of syndication and Netflix, the show lives on in our hearts and, thankfully, our screens. While we can all relate to the entire Central Perk gang in some way, each character speaks deeply to the soul of select fans; we all know if we're a Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, or Ross. Right now, I'm talking to all the Bing-a-Lings out there. Sure, we're a tad neurotic, self-deprecating, and almost chronically sarcastic, but we're still a hoot, and that's all that really matters! So if you're "The Funny One" and damn proud of it (or just shopping for one), I highly suggest investing in these gifts.
Green Book: Before You Start Wondering If Mahershala Ali Is a Piano Prodigy, Read This
In the segregation-era film Green Book, Academy Award winner Mahershala Ali stars as Dr. Don Shirley, a real-life world-class black pianist. In several scenes, with the grace that Ali always seems to exude no matter who he's portraying, his fingers fly across his piano keys in a way that look so masterful you can't help but wonder, "Is that really him playing the piano?" The question is a credit to Ali's acting, since no, he isn't the one pulling those notes from that Steinway piano. When we're not lost in the fierce concentration on Ali's face during those performance scenes, it's actually the fingers of film composer Kris Bowers that we're riveted by.
Green Book follows Ali's Dr. Shirley on a a concert tour that extends from New York to the Deep South, with Bronx-born Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen) as his chauffeur and bodyguard. The two abide by the "Green Book," which serves as a guide for African-Americans to what establishments are safe to visit, as they navigate the long road trip together. While Ali's depiction of Shirley's piano-playing is virtually perfect - seriously, it's hard to believe he isn't a virtuoso himself - Bowers revealed all the work that actually went into capturing the pianist's style.
"We worked together for about three months before they started shooting," Bowers told Vulture at the AFI Fest screening of Green Book. "[Ali] always said, 'When you look at a ballet dancer on the subway, you know they're a ballet dancer by how they're standing.' So he wanted to even look like a pianist when he wasn't at the piano."
Image Source: Getty / Sonia Recchia
"A lot of it was just talking about posture and making sure that the choreography of how he was playing was correct," Bowers (pictured on the left, above) added. "[Our first playing lesson] we met for three hours because he was so glued on playing this major scale. By the time we got to our lessons in the second month, we were able to start looking at some of the melodies that were a little simpler, some of the cords that he could definitely get down and play."
Why aren't we shocked that Ali is so dedicated to his craft that he would spend three hours learning one scale? As for Bowers, the 29-year-old is making a name for himself when it comes to scoring. He's scored the hit Netflix series Dear White People, as well as an Emmy-winning song for Amazon's children's special The Snowy Day. The composer told Vulture he's been playing piano since he was four (a prodigy like Dr. Shirley!) and actually recreated Shirley's music for the film since there was no sheet music. "I transcribed all of it, note for note, and it was all about trying to make sure that we did it justice," Bowers explained. "I was practicing eight, nine hours a day. It was pretty intense."
The magic that goes behind movie-making never stops amazing us all. And even with all the work he gets done behind the scenes, Bowers noted that he had nothing but respect for the actor he doubled for. ". . . watching how [Ali] had to not only have these lines down and . . . also to pretend like he's playing this instrument . . . or have to do all this physical stuff that he's not comfortable doing, but looks like he's been doing it forever, was pretty impressive."
Give Your Holiday Some Extra Soul With These 11 Classic Christmas Albums
There are a ton of brand new and delightfully nostalgic Christmas albums to dive into every year, but I always love taking it back to the glory days of Motown. The season is made for swaying, twirling, and two-stepping to holiday classics, and I maintain that nobody does Christmas music better than soul singers. From The Supremes to Stevie Wonder to Smokey Robinson, read through for the best soul albums to play during parties, road trips, and anywhere else you want an extra dose of jazzy Christmas spirit.
You're Not Crazy - These 10 Actors Are All Over Netflix's Original Content
If you watch a lot of Netflix, you've probably noticed some of the same faces popping up over and over again. Whether it's a new leading man or a pitch-perfect character actor, Netflix often tends to stick with its favorite actors. Given how broad Netflix's programming slate has gotten, covering everything from comedy to horror to historical drama and more, it's a pretty big feat for an actor to appear in multiple shows on the platform. We couldn't even begin to list the actors who have been in two Netflix shows, but there are just a handful who have appeared in even more. Read through to see if your favorites made the list!
11 Shows on Netflix That'll Make You Feel as Cozy as Gilmore Girls Does
To the devoted Gilmore Girls fan, an episode of Amy Sherman-Palladino's sweet and culturally savvy series is like a warm blanket or cup of cocoa on a cold day. It's hard to imagine life before Kirk's hilarious mishaps or Emily's telling glances. We were blessed enough to get a sweet but much too brief reboot a couple years back, but like Lorelai with coffee, we're craving more.
Lucky for us, there are plenty of series out there with complex female protagonists, snappy dialogue, and good old family drama. If you're craving the nostalgia and familiarity of Stars Hollow, read on to see our favorite quirky and wholesome shows on Netflix that'll warm up even the curmudgeonly Luke Danes.
These 39 Videos Prove 2018 Has Been 1 of Latin Music’s Sexiest Years
2018 has been a great year for Latin artists. On YouTube alone, the three artists with most views are Ozuna, J Balvin, and Bad Bunny. Out of the top 100 most-viewed videos, more than 50 are from Latin artists. And while Latin music has always included sensual language, catchy beats, and sexy music videos to accompany them, this year Latinas continued reclaiming their sexuality by releasing some of this year's hottest songs. The sexiest videos of 2018 include a lot of lingerie, dark lighting, and lots of booty. If this year was this hot, we can't wait to see what these artists have in store for us in 2019.
50+ Purr-fect Gifts For All the Cat Ladies Out There
Know any proud cat ladies or are you one yourself? This year, treat them (or yourself) to the perfect feline-themed presents. We scoured the internet and found everything from slippers that heat up to shower curtains and even stylish bags. Keep scrolling to shop the ultimate cat-lady gift guide. Meow!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
Related: The 50 Best Stocking Stuffers You Can Buy For Less Than $50
20 LitRPG Books That Are Virtually Unputdownable
Never heard of LitRPG before? You're probably not the only one. Recently made popular by Ernest Cline's Ready Player One, LitRPG (Literary Role Playing Game) is a literary genre in which games or game-like challenges make up an essential part of the storyline. These books merge traditional book-style narration with quests, achievements, and other typical gaming elements, making them feel more like a journey than a reading experience.
If you're a reluctant reader who'd rather be playing video games (or if you're just looking for a little excitement in your next read), you should check out one of these 20 LitRPG books. Don't forget to bookmark this page to cross the "LitRPG" prompt off your 2019 POPSUGAR Reading Challenge list!
Related: Never Heard of Cli-Fi? Here Are 20 Books That'll Introduce You to the New Genre
50+ Target Finds Under 50 Bucks For Your Boyfriend - He's Gonna Love 'Em
So, what exactly do you get your boyfriend for the holidays without looking like you tried too hard, overthought it for months, or called his mother on the phone last week and asked what he wanted? Yeah, it's a question we have all asked ourselves at one point or another.
To keep your relationship casual, cool, and right where you want it this holiday season, get your guy some of these fun and thoughtful gifts from Target. Shop our picks for the best boyfriend gifts ahead!
40 Genius Tech Gifts That Cost Less Than $100
If you're looking for the perfect present for your loved one this holiday season, we have a solution for you. Try opting for a cool tech gift they can actually use. We've scoured the internet for the coolest, chicest items this year, so all you have to do is shop. Trust us - there's no way you'll go wrong with a single one of these under-$100 treats.
- Additional reporting by Chelsea Hassler
27 Gifts Your Boyfriend Actually Wants
There are things women think men want, and then are things that men actually want. If you'd like to give your boyfriend something he will actually use (and not something he only wears to make you happy), you've come to the right place. These tech-y, boozy, nerdy, sporty, bacon-y gifts are guy-approved, and are guaranteed to elicit genuine joy this holiday season.
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
What It's Like to Get a Hysterectomy as a Transgender Man
My wife and I rolled up to the surgical center before the sun had even risen on a Wednesday morning in September. It was years in the making, but I was finally getting the hysterectomy I so desperately needed. I was decked out in my best pair of sweatpants and ready to get those baby makers out of me, but I probably should have shaved my face first - because, yup, I'm a transgender man.
Why I Decided Surgery Was Right For Me
I've been dealing with ovarian cysts since I was 13 - and, as I mentioned, I'm not a woman - so I figured it was finally time to get these excess bits out of me. There was something unsettling about having multiple organs inside of my body that were literally doing more harm than good. When doctors find a tumor or cancerous mass inside someone's body, they'll remove it without question. That's how I began to see my ovaries. Each month brought more pain, but it was a pain I didn't feel comfortable discussing with my friends or coworkers. It was another reminder that, despite feeling comfortable with my outward appearance and passing as male, my internal anatomy was still fighting against me.
The ovarian cysts popped up every month, and the estradiol produced by my female organs was waging war with the testosterone I injected each week, which led to a lot of distress. I dealt with mood swings, digestive issues, depression, and just about everything else associated with both PMS and the typical male puberty. My body had no idea what to do with itself, and it was finally time to fix that.
After experiencing yet another cyst rupture at age 29, I made an appointment with the ob-gyn team at my medical center, and we scheduled a total laparoscopic hysterectomy for a few months later. I realized the one thing that made this entire surgery so uncomfortable was the same thing that made the surgery possible through my insurance: being a transgender male. I was told by the surgical coordinator that because my surgeon stated that this was a transition-related surgery, instead of a surgery to prevent ovarian cysts, my insurance covered it. If he were to say that this was a preventative surgery, my insurance likely would have denied the coverage and I would have been left paying almost $20,000 out of pocket for a surgery that will eradicate a lifetime of pain.
It's strange to think that if my wife were to go to her ob-gyn and request a hysterectomy due to ovarian cysts, her request would likely be declined in favor of "less extreme options" - cheaper and often less effective options, to be clear - like birth control.
So I dealt with being a lone male in an ob-gyn office. I brushed off the stares, the marker on all of my medical records that said "female-to-male transgender individual," and the cover-up stories about what surgery I was getting ("Oh, it's a mass removal"), because I was getting this surgery.
The morning of the surgery was less anxiety-inducing than I'd anticipated. The only thing I was actually concerned about was being nauseated after waking up from the anesthesia, but I was given a bunch of medication and a seasick patch to prevent that. The med students and residents explained what was going to go down to my wife and me, and then I was wheeled back and relieved of my female reproductive organs. No one questioned why this scrawny little man was here for a typically "female" surgery, and I was treated like every other patient who ever got their ovaries removed. The surgery was done via the da Vinci robot, which is as awesome as it sounds. My surgeon removed the organs by operating a robot through special controls that look kind of like a virtual reality setup. My abdomen was filled with gas, and there were four one-inch incisions made: two on my right side, one on my left side, and one in my bellybutton.
They took it all: both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the cervix, and the uterus. Due to over five years of testosterone therapy and fluctuating hormones, my uterus had atrophied quite a bit. In fact, one of the residents referred to it as a "cute-erus" since it was so tiny. I went home that same day with a pair of mesh underwear and a bag full of pain medications.
The Recovery Process
By the second day, I was beginning to regret the surgery. The last surgery I went through was my top surgery (double mastectomy), which had a pretty easy recovery. I couldn't move my arms too much, but the pain was manageable and mainly came from the binder I had to wear for a couple of weeks.
A hysterectomy recovery is totally different. With my top surgery, I had a physical "trophy" of what I had gone through every time I looked in the mirror: my breasts were gone, and my chest was finally flat. Every day post-op was one more day closer to being able to remove that binder and see my chest. It was a huge step in my transition and one that I don't think I'll ever get over. Even though my chest isn't perfect (I'm still scrawny, and my farmer's tan is atrocious), it's still a masculinized chest.
With a hysterectomy, it's a distinctly female recovery. I had my last period about a month after I began taking testosterone at age 24, and I hadn't experienced menstrual cramps since then. The first month and a half of my hysterectomy recovery was essentially a month-and-a-half-long period, which caused some discomfort. I was spotting (not enough to warrant wearing a pad, thank God), cramping, and bloated. I couldn't wear anything that didn't have an elastic waistband for almost two months, I ate way too many Hostess Cupcakes, and I found myself relying on one of those husband pillows. Since it had been over five years since my last period, having to deal with these physical reminders was jarring and frustrating. I remember sitting in the bathroom and staring at the blood that had leaked into my underwear with angry tears in my eyes, a forcible reminder that my body was still clashing with my mind and soul.
But isn't that what this surgery was for? Aside from external genitalia, my body no longer thinks of itself as female. If a doctor were to check my hormone levels, they would finally be within the normal male range. If I had an X-ray or ultrasound done, no one would find any ovaries or a cervix or anything that would point to being female.
2 Months Later, I Know I Made the Right Choice
Eight weeks after my hysterectomy, my body and emotions are no longer riding the roller coaster of testosterone vs. estrogen, and I'm finally stable in a male's body.
Other than relearning how to feel and coming to terms with my new body, I had a few tiny complications that occurred throughout my recovery. These were mainly due to human error and not really related to the surgery, but it led to a longer recovery than I had planned. I went back to work part time after about three weeks and then hit full time at five weeks post-op.
For the first time in my life, my body is finally aligned with how I've always felt inside. There are no conflicting hormones wreaking havoc on my body or monthly cysts popping up to remind me of the things I cannot - or thought I could not - change. A hysterectomy is a huge step in my transition, so I'll be holding off on any additional surgeries until the practice of "bottom surgery" is a bit more refined.
I'm eight weeks out from my surgery and I still don't feel "normal," and I don't think I'll ever truly feel "normal" again. Regardless of whether you're a biological female getting your ovaries removed as a cancer prevention or you're a transgender male getting ready for your next surgical step, a hysterectomy is a life-changing surgery.
Is it weird knowing that a handful of organs have been removed from my body? A little bit. Is it a huge relief not dealing with ovarian cysts every month? You bet. Is it something I would recommend? It's hard to say. After all, I can only speak to one person's unique experience: my own. But I hope by sharing my story, someone else can make the right decision for themselves.
Thank You, Target, For Taking Ugly Christmas Sweaters to a Whole New "Dressy" Level
You've seen your fair share of ugly Christmas sweaters, but have you witnessed Target's twist on the ugly Christmas sweater trend? We are talking about ugly Christmas sweater dresses, people.
Target has blessed our holiday season with these "ugly" (and by ugly, we mean cute) holiday sweater dresses, and we will be wearing them to every festive event on our calendars for the rest of the year. They really are a Christmas miracle.
Disney World Is Infinitely Better Than Disneyland, and Here's Why
When it comes to Disney Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney World has the upper hand over Disneyland. While I might be a little biased, as Walt Disney World is my home park and I've been an annual pass holder for more than 20 years, there really is something special about seeing Walt's vision come to life all over Orlando, Florida. Yes, Disneyland is the original and has a ton of nostalgia - they even have better churro options - but I stand by my opinion that Disney World is the superior US Disney park.
So, do you want to know why Walt Disney World is better than Disneyland? Read through to see.
Related: 33 Things That Make Disneyland Better Than Disney World
Don't Even Try to Travel Without These Helpful New Products This Holiday Season
With so many new products released one after the other, all with the intention of making our parenting lives easier, it can be hard to sift through to find the new products worth our hard-earned dollars. Because the holiday season is fast-approaching, we're all in on the products that make traveling with kiddos more bearable and less stressful.
See some of our travel picks below (and one that isn't so much for traveling per se, but is so Insta-worthy, we couldn't not give it a mention)!
This Festive Game-of-Thrones-Themed Wedding Is a Medieval Fantasy Come to Life
Winter is coming . . . but so is wedding season, and this beautiful couple decided to celebrate their union Game of Thrones-style! You read that right: Claire and Chris tied the knot on the historic grounds of Thornewood Castle in Lakewood, WA, and their ceremony was filled with details from the iconic series amid a festive Christmas backdrop.
"Chris and Claire actually traveled down from Canada to celebrate in one of Washington's few celebrated castles," said photographer Jason Comerford. "They had their hearts set on a very authentic medieval-themed wedding due to their love of the Game of Thrones series. Their day was full of custom, handmade details, including their bridal party's beautiful outfits!"
If you take a close look at the pictures, the venue looks similar to the Red Keep, all decked out in holiday decor. Another fun detail is that Claire opted for a rustic metallic lantern with an elegant arrangement of pinkish-purple flowers instead of a traditional bouquet. Chris looked like 16th century royalty in a blue and gold jacket with ruffled sleeves. The ceremony was stunning; a string quartet played when Claire walked down the aisle, and later on, the couple drank from a chalice during their nuptials.
Check out the amazing pictures from the wedding!
5 Weighted Travel Blankets That Will Calm Even the Most Anxious Flyer
If you haven't heard, weighted blankets are the newest and coziest way to fall asleep and stay asleep. The blankets are scientifically designed to ease anxiety by regulating levels of the stress hormone cortisol while releasing oxytocin and serotonin, which can make you feel happier and more relaxed. Once you try one, you can't help but wonder how you slept (or coped with your anxiety) without it.
For anxious travelers, doesn't that sound like the perfect thing to pack in your carry-on bag? If so, cuddle up to one of these five weighted travel blankets - they're small enough to tote around but still heavy on benefits.
35+ Unique Gifts For Every Man in Your Life - All From Urban Outfitters
Shopping for the guy in your life is not always an easy feat, but we made it simpler by rounding up a list of cool and unique gifts for every man you know. Whether you're looking for your brother, dad, friend, boyfriend, or coworker, you'll want to check out these hot picks. We looked to Urban Outfitters because this trendy retailer carries an abundance of both fun and stylish items to choose from. From hoodies to an old-school Atari game, you might end up wanting some of these items for yourself.
Wait, These White Elephant Gifts Are All Under $10? BRB - I'm Buying 2 of Each
White elephant gifts should be quirky, funny, and most definitely cost-efficient. Since this kind of gift-giving is more about fun over function, it only makes sense to spend your money sparingly.
Check out this list of white elephant gifts that are all under 10 bucks! Save your money for the big gifts, but we will warn you: you might want to buy multiple of these gifts because they are so ridiculously awesome.
20 Minutes Is All You Need to Fall in Love With This White Chicken Chili Instant Pot Recipe
Who says chili always has to be made with ground beef and tomato sauce? There are so many varieties of chili you can make that can be just as delicious and possibly even lighter. I think white chicken is amazing to try in your chili. Not only is it a leaner cut of meat, but you can even play around with the flavor profile of the dish, too.
Even though this white chicken chili is a play on the American classic, by no means does that mean it is not as hearty and warm to the soul. It's packed with protein, fiber, and, of course, lots of spices. So the next time you want to cozy up to bowl of chili, try this one out, and maybe it'll be a new favorite of yours. Bring the whole family together for this Instant Pot recipe too; that's if you have it in your heart to share something so good.
50+ Purr-fect Gifts For All the Cat Ladies Out There
Know any proud cat ladies or are you one yourself? This year, treat them (or yourself) to the perfect feline-themed presents. We scoured the internet and found everything from slippers that heat up to shower curtains and even stylish bags. Keep scrolling to shop the ultimate cat-lady gift guide. Meow!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
Related: The 50 Best Stocking Stuffers You Can Buy For Less Than $50
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!
88 Awesome DIY Stocking Stuffers That Will Totally Impress Your Loved Ones
Is there anything more fun this gift-giving season than picking out stocking stuffers? Curating an adorable mix of small presents that are equal parts fun and useful tops our list of things that make the holidays so magical. If you're trying to figure out what to fill someone's stocking with, save your money and make these stocking stuffers instead. And don't worry if you're not a crafter; many of these DIYs are easy and don't take up too much time.
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
25 Hacks to Get You Through the Holidays in 1 Piece
It's the most wonderful time of the year, so don't let the stress of anticipation and planning get the best of you. We've rounded up the 25 most life-changing hacks to get you through the holiday season. From wrapping tricks to apps that organize gift lists, these tips will surely bring you holiday joy by saving you time, money, and unnecessary tasks.
Sorry, Santa, but Disneyland's 2018 Holiday Treats Put Your Milk and Cookies to SHAME
Year after year, Disneyland ups its holiday treat game, and 2018's offerings are cuter and more tasty than ever. From boozy cookie shots at Disney's Grand Californian to sweet additions to the park's churro selection and savory delights at the Disney Festival of the Holidays at California Adventure, there's an edible indulgence for food fans of all kinds.
If you're wondering what to prioritize, we spoke with Nubia Renteria, pastry sous chef at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel, who shared some of her picks. Her favorite treat this year: the gingerbread funnel cake churro fries. "They're amazing," she told POPSUGAR. "They're hot, they're crispy, and what is there not to love about caramel sauce and hot funnel cake fries?" Agreed.
While we're suckers for all the sweet goodies, there are also some seriously delicious savory dishes at the holiday food festival at California Adventure. "I think the big one for me, especially being Hispanic, is this version of pozole that we have this year at Festival of the Holidays," Renteria said. "You're used to seeing pozole as a soup, in a broth with hominy, so what we did this year is it's a corn cake, and we topped it with a red chile rojo, a beef chili. It's really good; you have the same condiments as you would in a pozole, but it's just in a totally new, modern, different form." Salivating yet?
Keep reading to see Renteria's favorites, as well as more Disney delicacies we're drooling over this holiday season! And make sure you try them before the holiday season at Disneyland officially ends on Jan. 6 (the food festival lasts until Jan. 8).
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!
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.
First Timers, Here's a Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Instant Pot Like a Pro
This was the year I decided to join the Instant Pot fan club, and I'm never going back. Instant Pot recipes are easy, stress-free, and can be found anywhere and everywhere. Whatever you're planning to cook, the Instant Pot can handle it - from rice and stews to eggs and even dessert. If you're ready to step in the kitchen without making a mess and want to be able to turn your back on the food you're cooking, investing in an Instant Pot may just be the best decision you'll ever make. It may seem confusing to navigate at first, but this step-by-step guide to figuring out your Instant Pot will have you cranking out meals in no time.
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