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 20 janvier 2019
1 Mom May Have Solved the Problem of Kids Wearing Coats in Car Seats Once and For All
Like every other parent under the sun, Dahlia Rezik - a mom of three from New Hampshire - wants her kids to be as safe as possible in the car. But you know what presents a hazard during the Winter months? Bulky coats. Rather than enduring the struggle of getting her kid from place to place without a coat for another second, Dahlia decided to do something about it by creating a line of car-seat-safe outerwear called Buckle Me Baby Coats.
"One day, feeling totally defeated by the No Coat Thing, I thought if the zipper wasn't in the middle . . . Enter instant excitement! I applied for a patent and did the next logical thing, I spoke with every coat manufacturer imaginable," Dahlia explained on her website. "I thought they would jump on the idea, but they didn't believe that coats and car seats had anything to do with one another. They weren't in the trenches though - I was - and I knew other parents were, too."
And yes, according to experts, buckling your kids into their car seats with their Winter coats on can be particularly dangerous.
"Wearing coats, heavy sweaters, or fleeces, for that matter, can prevent a snug and very important fit of the harness, which has to be tight at the shoulders and hips every time," said Safe Kids Worldwide. "You might think your child is securely snug in the car seat when in fact the harness is not tight enough because there is so much air in the coat or clothing."
So what's so special about Buckle Me Baby Coats? The front panels of the garment pull to the side and the shoulder seam is actually in the back of the jacket so the car seat straps can go underneath the coat, rather than over the top. (There's a full video tutorial on the site!).
Although the American Academy of Pediatrics hasn't signed off on the line just yet, Buckle Me Baby Coats is a much safer option than simply buckling your child in with a normal jacket on. After all, those chest straps need to be snug. Read through to get a look at Dahlia's line.
Margot Robbie's Response to the "Babies?" Question Is Relatable as Hell
Image Source: Getty / Axelle / Bauer-Griffin
Can people just enjoy their marital bliss, please? Margot Robbie candidly addressed the pressure to have kids right after marriage, and her quotes will likely leave many newlyweds nodding in agreement. In a recent interview with Radio Times, the Mary Queen of Scots actress expressed her frustration over questions about when she'd like to get pregnant since marrying Tom Ackerley a little over two years ago.
"Don't presume. I'll do what I'm going to do."
"I got married, and the first question in almost every interview is, 'Babies? When are you having one?' I'm so angry that there's this social contract," Margot said. "You're married, now have a baby. Don't presume. I'll do what I'm going to do." At that point, her costar Saoirse Ronan chimed in with a very valid point and said, "Only women get asked that when they get married. Men don't."
Margot and Tom married in a private ceremony in Byron Bay, Australia, in December 2016. Though she is fairly mum about her relationship with the British assistant director and producer, she confirmed her marriage by sharing a cheeky picture, shown below, flipping her ring finger to the camera.
Left-Handedness Is Partially a Result of Genetics, but Researchers Think Being Bottle-Fed Plays a Role
Although left-handedness is partially genetic, new research has found that bottle feeding an infant in the first nine months of their life could result in them growing up a leftie when compared with those babies who were breastfed. And while we all know that fed is best, this research is undeniably interesting. The study, which was published in the journal Laterality: Asymmetries of Body, Brain and Cognition, looked at 62,219 pairs of mothers and their infants who were either breastfed or bottle-fed, and "found that the prevalence of left-handedness is lower among breastfed infants as compared to bottle-fed infants."
The study's author, Philippe Hujoel, a professor at the UW's School of Dentistry and an adjunct professor of epidemiology at the School of Public Health, told ScienceDaily, "We think breastfeeding optimizes the process the brain undergoes when solidifying handedness." So, even though handedness is somewhat determined in the fetal stage, the study found that the way an infant was fed also played a role in determining whether they would grow up to be a leftie or a righty. Additionally, it was found that the longer a baby was breastfed (up to 9 months old), the more likely their chances of being left-handed would decrease when compared with those babies who were bottle-fed in their first nine months.
However, in the discussion following the study's results, it was noted that only about 22 percent (nearly one in five) of the lefties in the group of bottle-fed infants could partially attribute their handedness to a lack of breastfeeding, so it's clear that feeding methods are certainly not the only factors that go into the development of hand dominance. The correlation is fascinating though, no?
Kim Kardashian Reveals How She Plans to Tell Her Kids About Her Sex Tape
Kim Kardashian might be an open book, but that doesn't mean she is looking forward to explaining certain things from her past to her children.
During an appearance on Bravo's Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, a caller asked Kim and her sisters Kourtney and Khloé to name their most cringeworthy moment. "I think mine is obvious," Kim said with a laugh. Although no one on the show directly confirmed, she was no doubt referring to her 2003 sex tape with then-boyfriend Ray J, which went public in 2007.
When Andy asked what she plans to tell her four kids - North, Saint, Chicago, and a baby boy on the way - about the controversy, she was candid. "I don't know yet," she said. "I mean, I have an idea, and I think I'm just going to be superhonest and real with them. That's all you can really be."
Kim isn't the only one who owns her mistakes and is determined to be honest with her kids about them. Kourtney admitted that the "fights on the show" between her and ex Scott Disick will be hard to explain to her kids "if they see certain things." As for Khloé, she has noticed in rewatching episodes of Keeping Up With the Kardashians that she wasn't always kind to her mother.
"One thing I noticed is . . . how I would speak to my mom in the earlier seasons," she said. "I love that I've grown and hopefully don't talk to her like that anymore."
This Is Bronson the Cat - He’s Nearly 30 Pounds, Has Thumbs, and Is About to Be Your New Obsession
When Bronson the cat met his new owners, Mike and Megan, he weighed 33 pounds and was in their local Humane Society shelter because his previous owner had passed away. Because Mike and Megan were drawn to Bronson immediately and fell in love with him just as quickly, they were committed to adopting Bronson to help him get healthy. Nearly nine months later, Bronson is well on his way to hitting his goals.
"When we adopted him, they asked us to wait on switching his food because of the stress of moving into his new home," Mike told POPSUGAR. "For the first couple of months, his weight loss was minimal because of needing to wean him off of his kibble and onto his grain-free, meat-based wet food diet. We took him into his vet right after we brought him home and had they gave us an exact number of calories to give him daily. It's been a bit tricky keeping track of his calories, because we have three other cats that are used to sharing food. Since we brought him home, he's lost a total of 5.4 pounds and we're really hoping things continue in this direction."
Since adopting Bronson - who happens to be a polydactyl cat, meaning he has pronounced thumbs in addition to his paws! - Mike and Megan have been sharing his progress on his Instagram account, @iambronsoncat. "Bronson's accumulated a large following, and they are amazingly supportive, give us advice, share their stories, and cheer him on. We really want to use the account to help raise awareness to feline obesity and the importance of a proper diet."
See some photos of Bronson below, from the early days after his adoption to now!
We're Focusing on 1 Thing in This Trailer For Alexander Skarsgard's The Hummingbird Project
Alexander Skarsgard has quite a different look in his upcoming film, The Hummingbird Project. And by "different," we mean he's basically bald. The new trailer for the film dropped on Jan. 18, and while it looks like a solid watch, it's a little hard not to stare at Skarsgard's depilated head. It certainly deviates from his typical look, so, you know, we give him credit for being a dedicated actor.
The film, written and directed by Kim Nguyen, centers on two cousins from New York, Anton (Skarsgard) and Vincent (Jesse Eisenberg), who attempt to build a fiber-optic cable from New Jersey to Kansas in order to receive stock market quotes in a matter of milliseconds. They then become involved in a war of high-frequency trading with their old boss, Eva Torres (Salma Hayek), who decides to build a cable line of her own. It looks like it might be one of those movies that some won't fully understand but will enjoy nonetheless, especially because bald-headed Skarsgard apparently dances down a hallway in one scene. It's rather hair-larious.
Ahead, you can check out the trailer, poster, and stills from The Hummingbird Project, which will hit theaters on March 15. But if you cherish Skarsgard's precious head of hair, then shave yourself the pain and look away.
The True Story Behind Netflix's Murder Mountain Is Horrifying
Netflix is wasting no time fulfilling all of our true crime bingeing needs this year. Already, the first true crime series of 2019 has launched, with six 45-minute episodes that take viewers into Humboldt County, where 60 percent of the marijuana grown in the US is produced. Specifically, Netflix's Murder Mountain (which originally aired on the Fusion network back in September) focuses on a man named Garrett Rodriguez who, among several others, has gone missing from this giant weed-producing community.
From 30-year-old open cases to much more recent disappearances, this Netflix series works to demonstrate what an issue this area has become, as well as all of the potential causes for the shocking number of missing persons. From labor and sex trafficking situations to murder, Netflix explores the possibilities, all revolving around the disappearance of Garrett Rodriguez. Read on to find out the true story behind this Humboldt County mystery.
We're Surprised Our Screens Haven't Caught Fire From These Smokin' Hot Male Celebrity Selfies
Every year celebrities treat us to a new set of sexy selfies, and this year, the guys are bringing the heat! From sexy actors like Shemar Moore and Harry Shum Jr. to musicians like Ricky Martin and Zayn Malik, there's a little something for everyone to swoon over - and it's only January! See all the stars who've shared steamy selfies so far!
These Female Celebrity Selfies Are So Hot, You'll Need a Cold Shower
Have you been having issues with your phone screen lately? Does it look like it's starting to melt? Well, this year's batch of celebrity selfies may have something to do with that. From Kylie Jenner to Demi Lovato to Emily Ratajkowski, celebrity women certainly have no problem flaunting what they've got on social media - and why should they? Ahead, feast your eyes on the sexiest female selfies of 2019 - so far!
50+ Vintage Photos That Showcase Princess Margaret For the Bombshell She Was
Princess Margaret, younger sister of the queen, was actually the royal who ruled the '60s. From her sense of style to her celebrity pals, Margaret was never far from the front pages. But behind the glitz, glamour, and reputation as a bit of a regal rebel was a steely and determined princess focused on supporting the royal family.
Margaret Rose was born in August 1930 in Scotland, the second child of the future King George VI and his wife, Elizabeth, better known as the queen mother. Margaret made a name for herself as a style icon in the 1950s before winning widespread public sympathy when she famously gave up the chance to marry her first great love, Peter Townsend. Her 1960 wedding to Antony Armstrong-Jones brought out crowds to rival any 21st century royal event, and their star-packed social circle made them the darlings of London in the 1960s. The couple had two children together, David and Sarah, amid a wave of royal baby mania.
Margaret took a lot of public criticism when her marriage broke down and she became the first senior royal to divorce since King Henry VIII in the 16th century. But she kept her cool and her inimitable sense of style and continued to carry out countless engagements in support of the queen. Even when ill health forced her to cut back, she retained a supercool elegance, making her final public appearance in December 2001. Margaret died in February 2002 in London, a few weeks before the queen mother, and her ashes were later laid to rest in the same chapel in Windsor where her parents are buried.
Now, almost 20 years after her death, she remains one of the most beautiful and celebrated princesses of modern times. Keep reading for some of the images of Margaret's most memorable moments.
Exclusive: Get Your First Look at Laura Marano's Emotional Music Video For "Let Me Cry"
Before Laura Marano has us crying happy tears (hopefully!) in her upcoming Netflix rom-com The Perfect Date, she'll have everyone sobbing for real thanks to her emotional new single, aptly titled "Let Me Cry."
In our exclusive preview of the accompanying music video, the singer and Lady Bird actress wanders a sparse room by herself, crossing over from the darkness of one corner to the light of another, so she can sing in the sun. Although the visuals aren't flashy, the meaning behind the video holds a special place in the 23-year-old's heart.
"'Let Me Cry' is all about allowing myself to be emotional, vulnerable, and a mess for the day," she says. "I wanted the video to show the process of breaking down and becoming that mess. This clip is basically at the beginning of the process - I'm walking around this beautiful ballroom, and I'm going from this shadowy part of the room to where the light and sunshine are; but I'm not there for long. You'll have to watch the rest of the video to see where I end up."
The full video for "Let Me Cry" will be available next week, but in the meantime you can stream the song on all platforms. And, if you're interested in hearing the track live, make sure you scoop up tickets for Marano's show in LA at the Roxy, on Feb. 15.
Cardi B's Sermon About the Government Shutdown Was Turned Into a Song, and It's a Bop
Cardi B recently held nothing back when she addressed the current government shutdown that's plaguing the nation. The shutdown, which is in place largely due to disagreements over President Trump's fiscal plans for building a wall on the border of the U.S. and Mexico, began in December. Since then, it has left about 800,000 federal workers without pay, wondering how they're going to cover the cost of living.
Cardi took to Instagram on Jan. 17 to voice her concerns for the federal workers while also calling out the Trump administration for their part in what is now the longest government shutdown in history. "I just wanna remind y'all that it's been a little bit over three weeks," she says in the video. "Trump is now ordering - as in summonsing - federal government workers to go back to work without getting paid. This sh*t is really f*cking serious. This sh*t is crazy. Our country is in a hellhole right now. All for a f*cking wall."
Shortly after Cardi posted the video, The Gregory Brothers - a quartet and musical comedians - created a remix of her rant and titled it "Yeah B*tch / Nah B*tch," which is set to the beat of Cardi's hit song "Bodak Yellow." And you know what? It ACTUALLY slaps. Like, it could really top quite a few charts, and the internet seems to agree. People can't get enough of the "new" song, and are waiting for it to become an official track. Ahead, listen to the political tune before reading some of the most hilarious responses!
Ryan Murphy's New Netflix Show Packs a Thrilling Cast and a Chilling Premise
Just when we thought Ryan Murphy had enough shows on his roster - he currently has his hand in American Horror Story, American Crime Story, Feud, and 9-1-1 - we were reminded of his massive Netflix deal that happened nearly a year ago. In mid-January, the TV powerhouse made an announcement about Ratched, the new series he spent the better part of the last year developing (it would seem). The announcement at hand is actually a big, exciting casting declaration in which Murphy rattles off nearly a dozen incredible names that are attached to the project. We're aware: it's a bit of a cart-before-the-horse situation, mostly because, well, we haven't heard a lot about Ratched in the first place. Luckily, we were able to scrape together the basics, and it sure sounds like it's going to be a jolly good time.
10 Adorable Photos That Prove Animals Are the Way to Meghan Markle's Heart
There are several reasons why Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are a perfect match: they both enjoy helping others, they both have a way with kids, and they both have similar family values, but perhaps the cutest reason is that they both share a love of animals. Prior to moving to the UK and tying the knot with Harry, Meghan was the proud owner of two rescue dogs, Guy and Bogart. Guy ended up moving to the UK with Meghan, while Bogart stayed behind in the US with one of her pals. Since becoming a royal, we've gotten to see Meghan bond with animals during her public engagements, and this past August, the couple even adopted a Labrador Retriever named Oz. If you're in need of pick-me-up today, here are a bunch of cute photos of Meghan with animals.
If You're Confused by the Three-Leaf Clover Situation in Glass, You're Not Alone
Warning: some spoilers for Glass can be found ahead!
The real tragedy of Glass is that it raises more questions than it answers. The film should supposedly be the conclusion of the Eastrail 177 Trilogy, which began with the slow and tense buildup of Unbreakable way back at the turn of the century in 2000. So why is it that new mysteries, loose threads, and other such infuriating conundrums pop up throughout the film? This brings me to one of the most perplexing reveals in Glass: a little three-leaf clover tattoo that carries big connotations. If you're confused about what it is and what it means, join the "club," pun intended. (Get it? Like cards? Because the clovers are called clubs? OK, I'll stop.)
Now, chances are, if you saw Glass, you also saw Split. Those films have obviously been packaged together by the studio, and the studio is counting on fans of Split to see Glass. But Unbreakable is the obvious outlier, having come out way back in 2000. In case you didn't see Unbreakable, let me first say there's absolutely no trace of the three-leaf clover tattoo and what it represents in that film. This is not a full-circle moment. This is a new aspect of the story that has been inexplicably introduced in the final round. So when it comes to explaining it, we really only have the information in Glass to go off of.
The three-leaf clover tattoos seem to indicate that the person in question is part of a large organization, one that may be tied to the government. I say "may be" because there are even SWAT members who seem to be a part of it, and the fact that an esteemed doctor like Ms. Ellie Staple (Sarah Paulson) has signed on is a pretty big deal in itself. There's an even larger chance that the organization is so influential, it supersedes the government in one way or another. We learn that this collective is invested in tamping down the awakening of superheroes. It would appear they do this by any means necessary, but it would also appear that Dr. Staple has a hypothesis that may help them achieve their prime objective.
That's the crux of the whole movie, right? Dr. Staple hopes she can convince these men that they do not have superhuman abilities. If they believe her, they will go back to living their "normal" lives and the world will never be the wiser. Of course, you know by now that her plan fails and that she initiates a cover-up in which none of the main characters survive. And she would have gotten away with it, if it weren't for that meddling mastermind, Elijah "Mr. Glass" Price! Her plan spectacularly backfires and possibly awakens superhuman individuals all across the nation. Nice one, Staple. Hope that collective doesn't, like, murder you or something.
As I said, though, the conundrum of initiating this whole government conspiracy raises too many questions to which I don't have answers. Why is this group always inexplicably eating in the same restaurant, like they're at some kind of professional networking mixer? Do they all just love brunch that much? What is the significance of the three-leaf clover itself? Alas, M. Night Shyamalan insists there will be no further films in this universe to expand the mythology. What a mess.
Ariana Grande Posts a Sweet Note For Mac Miller on What Would Have Been His 27th Birthday
Ariana Grande is paying tribute to her ex and late rapper Mac Miller on his birthday. On Jan. 19, the "7 Rings" singer posted a sweet message to honor Mac - who would have turned 27 - before sharing a couple of old photos with them together. Shortly after midnight, Ariana first tweeted "miss u," which fans perceived to be a short memorandum for Mac, who died in September due to an accidental overdose of fentanyl, cocaine, and alcohol.
Later on in the day, Ariana posted two throwback photos of them hanging out. The first appears to have been taken while they were in a music studio. The second shows them enjoying each other's company in the outdoors. The two first started dating in 2016, then decided to end things in May 2018.
A day after Mac's death, Ariana shared a photo of the Swimming rapper with no caption. About a week later, she posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, "You were my dearest friend. For so long. Above anything else. I'm so sorry I couldn't fix or take your pain away. I really wanted to. The kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved. I hope you're okay now." She even gave him a special shoutout on Thanksgiving, and might have subtly honored him with one of her latest tattoos. Look on to see her most recent homages to the prolific musician.
Whoa! Spotify Just Launched Horoscope Playlists For Each Astrological Sign
Do you ever wish Spotify could just read your mood so you didn't have to spend so much time browsing through thousands of hyperspecific playlists? Well, the streaming service is offering a sweet new solution. In collaboration with astrologer Chani Nicholas, Spotify has launched unique horoscope playlists for each zodiac sign.
All 12 playlists can be found in Spotify's pop culture hub, and they're inspired by Nicholas's readings, which then inform what each sign's overall vibe might be for the month. And yes, the playlists will be edited each month to reflect a new horoscope! In a press release, Nicholas explained, "You can use it for inspiration. You can use it for healing. You can use it for reflection. You can use it for your own personal morning dance party. It's a collection of theme songs for your month, astrologically speaking." Check them all out ahead.
Don't Worry - It's Not Hard to Spot M. Night Shyamalan's Cameo in Glass
Warning: a few light spoilers for Glass ahead!
Ready or not, Glass has finally arrived in theaters to leave you with fresh inspiration for your nightmares and another reason to avoid Philadelphia. But, while some moments of the sci-fi superhero film are unexpected to the point of being distracting, there's one element of M. Night Shyamalan's movie that we were expecting from the get-go: a cameo from the writer-director himself.
For whatever reason, Shyamalan has made it a point to appear in all of his films in some way or another (like Stan Lee, only way more cringe-worthy). His appearances range from blink-and-you'll-miss-them cameos to full-on roles, like in Lady in the Water when he plays a writer who essentially brings about the messiah (I . . . you know what, never mind). From national park guards to doctors, he's played a number of small roles over the years. But in Glass, it shouldn't be hard to spot him whatsoever.
His cameo comes fairly early on in the film, which is the third (and presumably final) installment in Shyamalan's trilogy. Once we get reacquainted with David Dunn (Bruce Willis), who we first met in 2000's Unbreakable, it's revealed that he's now working as a security technician with his son, Joseph, and owns a store that specializes in surveillance cameras, microphones, and the like. As David fights with his son about whether or not he should go on the hunt for Kevin Wendell Crumb, who has abducted another set of young girls, a customer enters his store. Surprise, surprise: it's Shyamalan.
He makes a comment about recognizing David from when he worked at the stadium in Unbreakable, and then chats with Joseph about which camera would be best for his building, since his tenants have been on edge lately. Joseph helps him out, but continues arguing with his father, telling him that he shouldn't "take a walk," which is code for hunting for bad guys. Shyamalan's character cuts in to say something along the lines of, "Dude let your dad go for a walk, jeez," and then buys the camera he was looking at and leaves.
The director has said he has no interest in making another film in this series - but never fear, as long as Hollywood studios are giving him money to make movies, I have no doubt he'll make sure he's on screen once again.
Glass: A Spoiler-Free Answer to Whether You Should Wait For a Postcredits Scene
After 2015's The Visit, M. Night Shyamalan continued his goodwill in Hollywood with 2017's Split, an effective, if a little absurd horror film starring James McAvoy as a man with dissociative identity disorder struggling to keep all 23 (that's right, 23) of his wildly different personalities in check. The final minute of the film ends up revealing that - surprise! - Split takes place in the same universe as Shyamalan's bleak foray into the everyday-man-turns-superhero genre, 2000's Unbreakable. That's what made us so excited for this year's Glass, which connects the characters and events in Split and Unbreakable for a twisted showdown.
Given how fond Shyamalan is of adding surprising cameos to his films, as well as plotting out mind-boggling storylines for his characters to navigate, we were sure that Glass would include either a midcredits or postcredits scene to keep fans of the series hungry for more. Alas, there is no extra footage for you to be on the lookout for after the movie wraps up. I repeat: there is no postcredits scene in Glass!
Related: That Insane Twist in Split Might Mean Way More Than You Think It Does
So, without a teasery stinger to close out the Glass credits, is the Eastrail 177 Trilogy - nicknamed that by Shyamalan himself - truly over? Without spoiling how Glass ends, it certainly seems so. Sure, a few plot points are left up in the air by the time the two-hour-long thriller concludes, but Shyamalan has maintained that the characters in this story would only ever last three movies. Although the director recently told Vulture that the universe he's created "could" continue, he also noted that he has no plans for another installment in the franchise.
"That's not interesting to me. There's no danger in that. Or not enough danger, let's say that," he said of creating an entire cinematic universe based on Glass, Split, and Unbreakable. "We're not doing that though . . . I have the sequel rights to most of my movies, essentially for the reason to not do them."
So, in the end, Shyamalan's choice to opt out of including a postcredits scene also works as an answer to fans wondering if he'll make more films in this series - when the credits start to roll, that's it, folks.
Bow Down, Westeros - How Game of Thrones Has Been Prepping Sansa Stark to Be Queen All Along
When it comes to the kings and queens of Game of Thrones, it seems like everyone and their mother is gunning for the throne in some shape or form. We've seen three Baratheons (though one actually was king), four Lannisters, House Tyrell, and what I'm assuming was all of Dorne go down in the battle for the Iron Throne, and the only person who's made any progress is Cersei Lannister - and we all know that's not going to end well. Now that we're quickly approaching the final season, the question on everyone's mind - even the characters themselves - is who will finally claim the Iron Throne? The answer may have been under our noses all along: Sansa Stark.
Since her first introduction, Sansa's narrative centers on queenship. As a tween, she's preparing to be a southern princess and marry Prince Joffrey. She's admittedly at her worst during the beginning of season one, but she's also around 13 and spoiled, so that isn't a massive surprise. After the death of her father and the beginning of the War of the Five Kings, everything changes.
She's also not afraid to be fierce and unrelenting.
Though Sansa's narrative shifts focus to her imprisonment at Kings Landing and her family's slow demise, there are still moments where her potential is apparent. The Battle of the Blackwater is a particularly important moment because it shows the greatest difference between Cersei's way of ruling and the potential Sansa has to be a queen. Though she's visibly terrified and believes her continued survival depends on the battle's outcome, she is the one who calms the people of King's Landing while Cersei flees the Maidenvault. She puts the needs of those around her over her own.
She continues to show her compassion as the series continues. Sansa is sweet to Tommen during her time in King's Landing, even though he's part of the family that tortures her; she risks the ire of Joffrey and Cersei to save Sir Dontos's life; and at the Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn, she shows affection to little Robin even though he's terrible. Her compassion would make her a completely different ruler than Westeros has seen in a while, and it's a marked difference between her and the current queen, for sure.
But she's also not afraid to be fierce and unrelenting; she's the one who pushes Jon to help her fight for Winterfell and has no qualms letting Ramsay know where he can stick his threats. When Jon doesn't heed her advice to postpone battle to get more men, she contacts Petyr behind his back, saving both Jon and his forces when Ramsay's men pin them in. Sansa is the one who wrangles in the northern lords while Jon is with Dany, and she plots with her siblings to take down Petyr for good (we'll all have to agree to ignore the cut scene between Sansa and Bran because it casts a very bad light on both Stark sisters).
Winterfell is the first time Sansa is truly a leader, as the lady of the house and Jon's regent, and she visibly flourishes in the role. The show takes pains to show the difference between Jon and Sansa's ruling styles: Jon (before he bends the knee) is a reluctant king who isn't really into the politics of his position and prefers to follow his warrior instincts. He sees the big picture (the Night King's threat), but misses the smaller details (his northern lords don't agree with any of his decisions). While Sansa has an admittedly mixed bag of role models, she's continues to learn enough from all of them to be an efficient leader that can see the details of the picture.
As we've seen, Sansa has the honor and steel of her father and mother, while understanding what got them killed. She's ruthless and supports her family's interests, like Cersei, but is more compassionate and concerned about her people. Petyr Baelish taught her to be sly, but she knows better than to burn as many bridges as him. And if she were to ever sit on the throne, there's no doubt she would be wary enough to surround herself with people she can trust - like Brienne of Tarth, Arya, and even Tyrion. Honestly, with a crew like that, Sansa could be the greatest queen the Seven Kingdoms have ever seen.
Of course, this is mostly banking on Jon, Dany, and Cersei not contending for the throne. Cersei is really a nonfactor, since we all know that blonde is going down. Daenerys's survival is up in the air because she's too popular and bloodthirsty ("Dracarys" is like the only word in her vocabulary now) to actually make it to the end, and Jon doesn't even want the throne. So if there is still an ugly Iron Throne for someone to sit on, Sansa Stark might just be the best bet to sit on it.
It must be said, as much as queenship is woven into her narrative, Sansa has been very vocal about her desire to never leave the North again. Just like Jon, she wants nothing to do with the Iron Throne. If there is any throne she's most likely to sit on, it's the northern one, and it's the one I think she would be happiest taking. Whether or not the Iron Throne still exists after the battle against the Night King and his army, it's more than likely the North will desire independence once again. As the eldest Stark and the only one capable of ruling (considering Bran is a Three-Eyed Raven now and Arya would never), Sansa is the natural choice and would most likely have the full support of the northern lords behind her (as they were when Jon was gone).
Of course, this is all speculation as the final season is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma. Game of Thrones fans are forever on the edge of our seats waiting to see how it all works out, especially when it comes to who ends up "on top of the wheel." If any of us have learned anything over the last seven seasons, it's to never underestimate a northerner, especially Sansa Stark.
Game of Thrones: Why the Feather in the Season 8 Teaser Is So Important
I know it's been quite a while, friends, but we finally have some new Game of Thrones footage to feast our eyes on: the official season eight teaser!
In it, Sansa, Arya, and Jon march through the crypts of Winterfell, passing statues of their late relatives, like Ned and Catelyn Stark. When they reach a far wall, though, the trio stumble upon something incredibly foreboding: statues of the three of them, hinting that their own deaths might not be that far off. Then a threatening wave of ice and frost creeps through the crypts, as Jon and Arya draw their swords. Talk about ominous.
But it's one small moment before the wave of cold hits our heroes that we're hung up on: the feather that falls to the ground after Jon walks by a certain statue. As you're likely already very much aware, every little thing on Game of Thrones is done with purpose, and this scene has a connection to none other than Lyanna Stark, Ned's sister and Jon's mother.
When Jon passes Lyanna's statue, the feather is blown out of her hands and drifts to the floor, while Lyanna's soft voice can be heard saying, "You must protect him." As we discover in season seven, those are the words that Lyanna whispers to Ned when she hands over her newborn son, just before she succumbs to wounds sustained during childbirth. Up until that point, everyone had been led to believe that Jon was the bastard son of Ned and a random, unknown woman, but in actuality, he was the son of Lyanna and Rhaegar Targaryen. In other words, he's a legitimate contender for the Iron Throne. But anyway, back to the feather!
In the very first episode of the HBO fantasy series, we see King Robert Baratheon - who was betrothed to Lyanna before she left him for Rhaegar - enter the Winterfell crypts and place a feather on Lyanna's grave. He tells Ned that he still has fantasies about killing Rhaegar, and when Ned tries to convince him that the entire Targaryen clan has been wiped out, Robert responds: "Not all of them" (*cough* Daenerys *cough*).
The feather seems to rest on Lyanna's grave until a few seasons later, when Sansa meets Littlefinger in the crypts. Sansa picks the feather up off the ground where it has fallen, and it prompts the two to discuss Lyanna and Rhaegar's relationship.
"Lyanna was already promised to Robert," Littlefinger tells her. "The last two riders were Barristan Selmy and Rhaegar Targaryen. When Rhaegar won, everyone cheered for their prince . . . until he rode right past his wife, Elia Martell, and all the smiles died. He rode past his wife to lay a crown of winter roses in Lyanna's lap, blue with frost . . . how many tens of thousands had to die because Rhaegar chose your aunt?"
Obviously we now realize that the version of events popularized by Robert is untrue - Lyanna wasn't kidnapped and raped by Rhaegar; the pair were in love and decided to elope, and soon afterwards Lyanna became pregnant with Jon. She gave birth at the Tower of Joy, where her older brother finally comes across her. Ned and Howland Reed take down Ser Arthur Dayne (aka the Sword of the Morning) by stabbing him in the back on their way to get Lyanna. Ned then hears screams coming from the tower, and he rushes up the stairs to find Lyanna giving birth.
As for Rhaegar? Well, Robert Baratheon is indeed the one who kills him. After Lyanna and Rhaegar elope, many believe that Lyanna was the victim of kidnap and assault rather than acting of her own free will. This controversy is what spurs Robert Baratheon's rebellion, backed by the great Houses Arryn, Greyjoy, Stark, and Tully. The Lannisters even eventually join the rebellion after the Battle of the Trident, which is where Robert succeeds in murdering Rhaegar with his war hammer.
This defeat is the beginning of the end of the Targaryens, which is why the Lannisters finally join Robert's side - like true Lannisters, they wait to see which side emerges victorious before they make a choice.
When the feather emerges again in the season eight teaser, especially at the end when it's covered with frost, it seems to hint that the Starks - especially Jon - are in grave danger. Will the White Walkers be able to kill the heir to the Iron Throne, or will Jon's siblings (er, cousins) fulfill Ned's promise to Lyanna to keep him safe? Luckily for all of us (or perhaps, unluckily), we have three months to think it over.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Gives Brilliant Speech at Women's March: "This Is About Justice"
Newly-elected New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez empowered crowds as she took the stage at two Women's Marches in NYC on Jan. 19. The 29-year-old politician, and the youngest woman ever elected to Congress, gave compelling speeches to the march attendees and encouraged them to pursue justice endlessly.
"Justice is not a concept we read about in a book. Justice is about the water we drink. Justice is about the air we breathe. Justice is about how easy it is to vote. Justice is about how much ladies get paid," Ocasio-Cortez said. "Justice is about making sure that being polite is not the same thing as being quiet. In fact, oftentimes the most righteous thing you can do is shake the table."
Ocasio-Cortez encouraged listeners to fight for an America "where all people are welcome and no people are left behind." She acknowledged the future leaders in the crowd, who were taking her words to heart.
"I know that while this year has been historic, there's a lot more congresswomen left here in this audience right now," she said. "There's a lot more city council women . . . and I know that there's a future president out here too."
The Bachelor Couples: Where Are They Now?
The newest season of The Bachelor, starring Colton Underwood, is upon us, and it has us reminiscing about those early Bachelor seasons and wondering what the couples are up to now. Most importantly, who are they seeing and what are their relationship statuses? We all know the group of former contestants from the reality-TV dating show is an incestuous bunch, and it can be difficult to keep track of who's with whom. So we're breaking it down from the beginning to give you the scoop on where the last couples standing from each of the 22 seasons of The Bachelor are now. And in case you missed it, the previous Bachelor, Arie Luyendyk Jr., recently married Lauren Burnham, and they are expecting a baby girl! See if all the other couples made it out this happy. Will you accept this rose?
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
Here's What Your Next Trip Should Be Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Sure, there are tons of different places to visit, and as much as you'd like to visit them all, you need to prioritize your favorite spots each year, as there's only so much time. If you're wondering where you should go in 2019, you might want to take a cue from the stars. It turns out your zodiac sign can determine a few getaway locations that are right up your alley, so you'll want to make sure you get the full experience at some point in your life. No need to wait, though. Book a trip to these destinations, all recommended over interview with Joshua MacGuire ("Joshua the Psychic"), a psychic, astrologer, and life coach in Los Angeles.
If This Underwater Villa in the Maldives Isn't on Your Bucket List, You're Doing It Wrong
Still piecing together your 2019 travel bucket list? Then boy oh boy, do we have a worthy addition for you. The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island hotel finally opened its highly anticipated underwater villa at the end of 2018, and it's just as breathtaking as you'd imagine.
Dubbed the Muraka (which translates to "coral" in the local Maldivian language), the submerged suite features two levels and can sleep a total of nine people. The above-water portion houses a bedroom and bathroom with panoramic windows, an outer deck with an infinity pool, a kitchen, and a dining area. Meanwhile, 16 feet directly below, the underwater level boasts a king-size bed, living area, and bathroom with up-close-and-personal views of coral and fish living in the Indian Ocean. *Cue "Under the Sea" from The Little Mermaid*
Of course, an extravagant accommodation like this calls for quite the steep price tag. One night's stay in the Muraka suite will cost you about $50,000. If you're ballin' on a budget but still want to live out your Princess Ariel dreams, we suggest checking out the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island's Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which offers visitors a dining experience like no other.
Keep reading to admire the bi-level Muraka suite in all its one-of-a-kind glory. Now, who's down to lend me $50,000?
12 Things to Give Up If You Want a Healthy Relationship
Building healthy, sustainable relationships requires work and commitment. But it's these very relationships that can teach us how to be better people and make all that we experience and encounter in life that much more beautiful. It might not always be easy, but being mindful and making proactive adjustments to accommodate what your relationship needs can make a huge difference with both short- and long-term impacts. Here are 12 simple things to give up to make your romantic bonds stronger. You might even notice some of these things can cross over to help strengthen relationships with your friends and family, too.
Related: Is Romance or Heartache on the Horizon? Read Your 2019 Love Horoscope to Find Out
I Hate Wearing Jeans on the Plane, and This $52 Tracksuit Is Perfect For Traveling
Is there really anything worse than being stuck on a plane for hours, sweating in too-tight jeans? In case you can't tell, I've learned from experience; it's not my favorite thing. Years ago, I switched from wearing denim when traveling and decided to opt for cute and comfy track pants that basically feel like pajamas but are still stylish enough that I won't have to worry about getting kicked off a plane.
I recently treated myself to this Striped Velour Top ($26, originally $44) and matching Jogger Pant ($26, originally $44) set from the latest POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's release, and I'm so obsessed with it.
Just last weekend I flew cross-country, and they were perfect for my five-hour flight. The best part? I got even more use out of them by styling them as separates on my trip. The cozy striped sweater was perfect to pair with jeans for a chill dinner, and I rocked the joggers on a casual day with my favorite hoodie. Need more convincing? They're on sale right now, so what are you waiting for?
25 Best Organization Apps to Keep You on Track This Year
It's a new year, and most of us are probably working on resolutions and developing new habits right around now. Whether it's better time management, staying on track with tasks, managing work projects, reading more, or even keeping our plants alive, there are apps that can help. Here are the 25 best organization apps to kick off 2019.
10 Epic Theme Parks to Take Your Kids to That Aren't Disney
No one is questioning the amazingness of Disney and all of its parks. It's called the happiest place on earth for a reason, and with the recent opening of the new Toy Story Land, it's rightfully earned its magical stripes. But sometimes you might want to spread your wings and experience other places (or save some money and hit up some less expensive places). Scattered across the country are numerous theme parks, each one with something special to offer you and your family. Some are great for older kids while others perfectly blend attractions for all ages. But no matter what, they all look like so much fun! Keep reading for the 10 best non-Disney theme parks in the US.
9 Reasons This Small Colorado Town Should Be Next on Your 2019 Travel To-Do List
Like most people, I traveled to Breckenridge, CO, the first time for the skiing. And although the skiing is fantastic, it's not what's kept me going back multiple times a year for the past five years. In fact, I spend far more time in Breck now when the slopes are closed for the season.
So what keeps me coming back? It's the people and the unique culture they've created in this small town high up in the Rockies. Whether I'm living the laptop lifestyle and working from Breck between hikes or simply hanging with friends and enjoying craft cocktails and beers on outdoor decks, I've never been anywhere with so many chill, laid-back young people. Here's why Breckenridge should be next on your 2019 travel stops.
These Birth Flower Tattoos Might Make You Forget About Your Zodiac Sign
If you've been thinking about getting a tattoo of your zodiac sign, you may want to consider birth flower tattoos while you're at it. Like a birth stone, there are 12 different flowers that each represent a month in the year. They're such a pretty way to honor the month you were born, and so many unique variations are possible. Check out some inspiration ahead to get started!
– Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes
Take Your Hot Chocolate From Good to Great With These Spiked Hot Cocoa Recipes
While some people love Winter and all the things that come with it (Skiing! Sweaters!), it's also the time of year where the cold makes you want to bundle up, put on a pair of cozy socks, and plop yourself on the couch. Luckily, there's another Winter staple to add to the mix: hot chocolate. Since childhood, the sweet treat is something to enjoy on a cold night or during a snow day. Now that we're all adults here, we can do what we want, and you know what that means? Boozy hot chocolate. Adding vodka, bourbon, or other liqueurs to hot cocoa elevates it to fancy cocktail level without losing its comforting traits.
So whether you're snuggling up solo under your blanket, with your sweet pet, or next to the person who makes your heart skip a beat, here are some spiked hot chocolate recipes that you'll want to make all season long.
Related: All the New Hot Cocoa Products You Need to Try This Year, From M&M's to Marshmallows
Let's Face It, January Is a Tough Month - Here's How I Get Through It
After a whirlwind of holiday parties and family get-togethers, the month of January can feel a bit anticlimactic. Not to mention cold and dark if you live in the Northeast like I do. In addition to seasonal affective disorder plaguing many people, the "January Blues" manifests itself as sadness or depression-like symptoms after the holiday season. So, how do you keep yourself motivated and positive during the month of January? I've compiled my top 10 tips to help you navigate and even look forward to the beginning of the year!
Here's What Your Next Trip Should Be Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Sure, there are tons of different places to visit, and as much as you'd like to visit them all, you need to prioritize your favorite spots each year, as there's only so much time. If you're wondering where you should go in 2019, you might want to take a cue from the stars. It turns out your zodiac sign can determine a few getaway locations that are right up your alley, so you'll want to make sure you get the full experience at some point in your life. No need to wait, though. Book a trip to these destinations, all recommended over interview with Joshua MacGuire ("Joshua the Psychic"), a psychic, astrologer, and life coach in Los Angeles.
50 Budget-Friendly Casseroles to Make Today
During the Winter, there's nothing like a warm, hearty casserole for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Prep is usually simple, and once you pop it in the oven, you can finish up other tasks around the house while enjoying the smell of baking. They're always great for feeding a big group - and if you're just feeding one or two, you'll have plenty of leftovers for the next few days. With the right ingredients, they can be the most cost-effective and budget-friendly meals.
Here's a versatile collection of sweet and savory casserole recipes for all types of eaters, whether you're a cheese-lover, have a sweet tooth, are a vegetarian, or eat Paleo . . .
How Indoor Plants Can Help You Avoid Getting Sick This Flu Season
Think that the role of household plants is to just brighten up living spaces and look nice on shelves? Think again. Many common household plants, such as ferns, palms, and ZZ plants, can actually lower the infectivity of airborne viruses by raising humidity levels indoors. Yes, you heard that right. One of the secret weapons to fending off or dealing with the common cold or flu may not just be in your medicine cabinet - but also on your windowsill.
According to research, when humidity hits above 40 percent, it is able to greatly reduce the virulence and infectivity of the flu virus. Higher humidity also means lower infectivity of airborne viruses. This is where plants come in: All plants, with the exception of succulents and cacti, have the ability to increase humidity levels through a process known as transpiration.
"Transpiration occurs when direct sunlight strikes the leaves and pulls water from them into the air," explains Christopher Satch, head of plant science and education at the Sill. "The plant, in turn, pulls water from the soil to replace the water that has evaporated into the air. The bigger the plant, the more transpiration that occurs, and the more water that gets moved into the air. Humidity increases with increased transpiration and having more plants and bigger plants raises humidity the most."
So don't be afraid to splurge on plants this year – not only do they purify the air we breathe, but can also keep us healthy. Read ahead for 15 humidity-generating plants, and where to buy them, that can help us to feel our best.
Boo, the "World's Cutest Dog," Has Died at the Age of 12
Boo, the beloved internet-famous Pomeranian, died in his sleep Friday night at the age of 12 (in human years). He was best known as an adorable social media sensation with 16 million Facebook followers, brought smiles to many faces, and was called the world's cutest dog. Boo's humans hope he has reunited with his older brother Buddy, who died in 2017.
"With deepest sadness I wanted to share that Boo passed away in his sleep early this morning and has left us to join his best friend, Buddy," Boo's humans wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post. "Our family is heartbroken, but we find comfort knowing that he is no longer in any pain or discomfort. We know that Buddy was the first to greet him on the other side of that rainbow bridge, and this is likely the most excited either of them have been in a long time."
Boo started having heart issues after Buddy died, his humans revealed. "We think his heart literally broke when Buddy left us."
Fans of Boo shared their sadness over the news on Twitter. Below, see their reactions.
See Ya Later, Unicorn Cakes - Pinterest Predicts These 10 Food Trends Will Be Big in 2019
Food brings us all together - around the table, around the world. With more than 23 billion recipes and dining ideas to discover, Pinterest has got you covered from breakfast to late-night snacks. What's on the menu for 2019? Healthy, sustainable meals with unusual ingredients, according to what millions of people are searching on Pinterest. Here are the top 10 surprising food trends to look out for in 2019.
Why This Controversial Organizing Method Is Exactly What You Need
Letting go of clutter is hard to do. Anyone who has encountered the teachings of Japanese cleaning guru Marie Kondo knows that minimalism is currently all the rage; her housekeeping manual, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, has inspired legions of readers to throw away their unneeded belongings. And now her Netflix series, Tidying Up, is ushering in a new wave of devotees. We love all things related to organization and have to admit to clearing out our drawers and closets in a fit of aspirational tidying ourselves.
Not everyone, though, is on board with KonMari, the nickname Kondo gave her techniques. As with any good trend, there's a corresponding backlash. A writer for The New York Times extolled the virtues of living a life surrounded by things in an article called "Let's Celebrate the Art of Clutter." Plus, her stance on ridding your home of books that don't "spark joy" has had book-lovers up in arms.
Whether you're pro- or anticlutter, you must admit there's a certain calmness to be found in a well-organized drawer. Read through to see aspirational examples of Marie's method at work, and see if you aren't a little inspired to take a turn at organizing your own home.
Martha Stewart's Hack to Scramble Eggs in a Cappuccino Machine Has the Internet in a Frenzy
When it comes to cooking tips, it's safe to say we'd trust almost anything Martha Stewart recommends, but a recent scrambled eggs hack is raising a few eyebrows across the internet. Last month, Martha linked up with the Food Network, where they collaborated on a video revealing an unexpected way to steam eggs: in a cappuccino machine! We're all about fluffy, scrambled eggs, but that typically occurs on a stovetop, right? Wrong! "These eggs are buttery and fluffy and light and delicious," Martha said after steaming the eggs in the coffee maker.
One POPSUGAR editor noted that she's tried eggs cooked in this unconventional way before, and they're "so, so good." Martha's always taking us out of our comfort zone in the kitchen, but it looks like she learned this tip from famed chef Jody Williams when she appeared on Martha's show in November 2011. Genius!
The comments on Food Network's video post immediately poured in, questioning, "and who's going to clean the frother?????" Others joked over future random cooking hacks: "Next up: How to cook a brisket in your dishwasher," one person wrote. Would you try steaming your eggs in a cappuccino machine?
We Promise You Will Fall Head Over Heels in Love With These Valentine's Day Wreaths
Valentine's Day decorations make this holiday even more beautiful (if that's even possible). With everything from cards to candies to outdoor decor, Valentine's Day decorations only seem to get better each year.
One Valentine's Day decoration trend that has captured hearts each year is the holiday wreath, so we rounded up some of the most charming ones out there. Be ready to fall in love!
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