Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 28 janvier 2019
11 Big Teddy Bears to Give Your Little Ones This Valentine's Day
If you're anything like me, your little one is at the top of your Valentine's Day list. It's always nice to see their faces light up with a surprise gift on Feb. 14. And since you're not likely to buy your kids flowers (can you see the eye rolling now?), the next classic Valentine's Day gifts are jewelry and sweets. But why not think bigger (literally) and get them one of these huge teddy bears instead? Not only will your kids enjoy playing and cuddling with them, but these oversize stuffed animals are something the entire family can enjoy. Keep reading for some of the best big ol' teddy bears on the market, and get ready for your kids to thank you with a - yes - bear hug.
16 Pregnancy Products We Couldn't Live Without - Seriously!
Whether you're in your first trimester or nearing the third, chances are you have tons of questions. What do you need to get through the physical changes that are up ahead? And if you've been experiencing any symptoms, you might be feeling desperate for some resolve. We tapped POPSUGAR's very own editors - and moms or moms-to-be - to find out what products helped them make the most out of those nine months. From clothing to cure-alls, it's all right here.
From Wagons to Walkers - the 35 Best Baby Gifts
Searching for baby gifts is the most fun - it's a time of huge development, so chances are, you're not only buying them something colorful and entertaining, but something that will teach them all sorts of skills, from mobility to sensory. The family probably has all the essential baby gear already, so you get to shop for fun toys, bright nursery decor, and more. Here are 35 of our top picks.
30 Uncommon Girls' Names You'll Start to Hear More of in 2019
Naming your baby girl something unique can be tough - you want to pick a name that will help her stand apart from her friends a bit, but one that others can pronounce and spell.
The following names - which all rose a bit in popularity in 2018 - are uncommon enough that you won't hear them multiple times on your daughter's class roster, and some might even be ones you've never really heard before. Spoiler alert: they're all gorgeous.
Let's Admit It: Motherhood Can Be Lonely - but It Doesn't Have to Be
Image Source: Courtesy of Peanut
Michelle Kennedy is a mom to 4-year-old Finlay and the founder and CEO of Peanut, a social-networking app for mothers to connect and learn from like-minded women.
Michelle, the Mother. I was fine with that. I'd bought everything on my baby list, I'd read a few parenting books, I'd attended some prenatal classes to really make sure I had it all covered. I was professionally at the top of my game, running an extremely successful dating platform. I had lovely friends and a great family life (my husband and I had been together for five years), so motherhood . . . well, that seemed like just another step in my life, the next chapter in my book.
I was scared; everything was changing and it was out of my control.
When my son Finlay arrived, I felt naive. I hadn't appreciated how different everything would be. He was incredible, beautiful, fragile. I couldn't believe I'd had any part in something so perfect (all 9 pounds of him), but I was scared, like everything was changing and it was out of my control.
I'd gone from working a million miles an hour and being around people constantly to all of a sudden being at home all day on my own with this little dude. It was a difficult adjustment.
My husband would go to work every day and "leave" me at home. It sounds ridiculous to phrase it like that, but that's how I saw it at the time. I wasn't really sure who Michelle, the Mother, was. I'd lost my identity. I didn't know who I was anymore, and the usually very-together me felt dangerously close to falling apart.
I wanted to connect with other women going through what I was going through, but I found it really difficult to relate to the portrayal of motherhood I was seeing on social media and in parenting forums. I didn't recognize the tone of voice being used to address me as a mom - it was infantilizing. Searching for advice at 2 a.m. led me into a world of mystifying abbreviations (DH? OH?), and no real way to communicate and meet other mothers like me. There was a lot of judgment flying around in forums, and I became so terrified of being criticized, I was tongue-tied. I became a lurker, wishing that another mother would ask the question I had, and then ducking when I felt the inevitable judgment coming. I was lonely.
I was lonely. It was a really difficult realization. It was a dirty secret that I couldn't verbalize.
It was a really difficult realization. I certainly didn't feel comfortable with it. It was a dirty secret that I couldn't verbalize. I mean, I had friends! I even had one who had a child. She was wonderful, but her baby was older than mine, and I felt often like I was burdening her. She really had this motherhood thing down and was so in control of her identity as a mother. Why didn't I have that?
Everything and nothing could reduce me to tears at that time. I was extremely sensitive, and as any new mother will tell you, there is nothing quite like motherhood to make strangers feel emboldened to share their opinions with you. "He looks hungry!" said an older lady in the queue at Starbucks one morning, "I think Mommy needs to give him a little feed." I burst into tears, because how did she know my son better than me, because she was most likely right, because I really, really wanted to have a coffee. At that very low, vulnerable moment, I was more lonely than I could ever have thought possible.
I tried to meet other mothers, but, of course, not all moms are the same. Coming together because "you're a mom, and I'm a mom" can be awkward and forced, and make you feel lonely anyway. At times, I was faking it, pretending to be someone I wasn't, just to not be on my own. That didn't make me feel better. What I really needed was to find someone like-minded, someone I could be myself with so I could reclaim that part of my identity. Often, I'd see groups of mothers and thought I was back at school, constantly assessing the situation to see if I might "fit in" with them.
It's not socially acceptable for a new mother to say "it's really tough, and it's not exactly what I thought it would be."
Admitting my feelings toward motherhood didn't feel like something I could do. It's not socially acceptable for a new mother to say "it's really tough, and it's not exactly what I thought it would be." I would share snippets with my friends and husband, but I didn't really know how to articulate that I was lonely. I was acting as a competent, together mother, and I didn't see anyone who seemed to be feeling the same way I was.
Image Source: Courtesy of Peanut
The turning point came six months in. I started to get in a flow and regained my confidence. I've now heard people describe that tough period ending as a fog lifting and, yes, that's what it was. I returned to work and was more connected to the Michelle I understood, and I made two wonderful friends who were mothers. I started seeing motherhood as a chapter in my book - not the only one, but for sure the most exciting.
Sometimes motherhood is challenging, confusing, and even scary, but it's amazing. It becomes a lot less daunting when you can feel like yourself, and share your journey with other women who love and respect the woman you are. I needed that support and I knew other women did, too.
I had been running a tech company that focused on dating apps, and all of a sudden it seemed obvious that I could use the knowledge I had to create a product that would help women, new mothers, connect, so they didn't have to struggle like I did. I started Peanut, an app to reflect modern motherhood, which offers a smart, mobile solution for mothers to chat, meet up, and learn from one another. It assumes not all moms are the same, and gives them the opportunity to come together, judgment free. It's the answer I wished I had as a new mom, because motherhood doesn't have to be lonely.
14 Adorably Sweet Movies to Watch With Your Kids This Valentine's Day
For kids, Valentine's Day means passing out heart-shaped candies and cute cards to their classmates. But celebrating Cupid's special day doesn't have to end inside of the classroom. Besides hanging up DIY decor, you can keep things festive at home by popping on a family-friendly movie about love (and maybe even making Valentine's Day desserts with your little ones while you do so). Your choices are endless, from Disney icons such as Lady and the Tramp to more underrated throwback rom-coms such as Return to Me. Read on for a sweet roundup of our favorite kid-friendly romantic movies to enjoy this February.
50 Beautiful Book Quote Tattoos
If you consider yourself a hardcore consumer of books, you've come to the right place. Only the world's biggest bookworms would consider permanent ink to (literally) engrave their adoration. The tattoos here pull thoughtful quotes from a variety of famous reads. See them all ahead!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
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.
Related: Your 2019 Travel Bucket List: 40 Spectacular Destinations to Visit in the New Year
Don't Be Stressed: We Found 14 Perfect Valentine's Day Gifts For the Guy in Your Life
Guys are tough enough to shop for as it is, but throw in the added pressure of Valentine's Day, and it's enough to want to give up. Don't you worry, though. Our golden rule when gifting: get something you think they'll actually like. Think about who they are, what they do every day, and the little things that make them smile. But, if you're still stumped, we found 14 gifts for men that are practically guaranteed to cement your status as a top gift giver. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
This Bride Traveled the Globe in Her Wedding Dress and Took the Dreamiest Photos Along the Way
While some brides may spend days weeks agonizing over what to pack for their honeymoon, Zoe Aust likely didn't have too much trouble prepping for her postwedding getaway - because she planned to spend most of it in her wedding dress. Zoe, who runs the Instagram account @MarryMeInTravel with her husband, Nick, rewore her white wedding gown in 33 different countries during a yearlong honeymoon. Talk about getting bang for your buck!
After exchanging "I dos" on Dec. 31, 2017, Nick and Zoe left behind their jobs in the United States to embark on a journey around the globe, making pit stops everywhere from Paris to Positano and Sydney to Singapore. In each city, Zoe posed for stunning photos while wearing her beaded Watters gown, often styling it according to her surroundings. She trudged through the snow, rode a bicycle, walked through deserts, and yep, even swam in the dress, making for some seriously breathtaking pictures (and proving that her gown is essentially indestructible).
"Life is too short to only wear your wedding dress once."
While speaking to People magazine about her adventures, Zoe told the publication, "Life is too short to only wear your wedding dress once. And the world is too big to only stay in your little town your whole life. Our hope is that when people see our pictures they feel nothing but inspired to explore a new place, try a new hobby, and fulfill that dream they've always had." Keep reading to admire all the beautiful footage from their yearlong voyage, and you'll most definitely feel overcome with that aforementioned sense of inspiration.
I'm Divorced, but I Don't Regret My Marriage
I can assure you that no one wakes up on their wedding day thinking about divorce. I can also assure you that marriages are hard, and it's not all rainbows and butterflies. There is a lot of baggage. But, to be honest, sometimes those hard times are indicative of something bigger and something that may not be able to be fixed. And the sad truth is, sometimes divorce is absolutely the best option. Let me explain.
I married my high school sweetheart. We had known each other for years and been through so many things together. Obviously, marriage was the next step, and we took the plunge. However, to be honest, we weren't happy together before we got married. We struggled with communication, life goals, and finances. We also had a few problems at the beginning of our relationship that really never got solved. We would pack them away on a shelf for a while and have a good year or two, but then they would resurface - hard - and cause fights and tension. But we continued on to the altar, said our "I dos," and hoped this slump was something we would get out of again - that's the way it always was.
It didn't.
I can't say we didn't do everything we could to save our marriage because the truth is, we did. We went to two different therapists, we tried living apart for a bit to cool down and regroup, we tried living together again. We went on dates to try to reignite a spark, we tried to be extra thoughtful of each other. But at the end of the day, our relationship was lacking something. We as people were lacking something that the other needed.
We both realized that while we loved each other, we were probably never in love with each other. To our defense, we were really too young to know the difference, and we continued forward as we thought we should. We parted as friends and deeply love and respect each other. We still talk every day, and I still think he is an absolutely wonderful man, just not my perfect fit.
I recently read that Jennifer Aniston called her failed marriages successes. And I truly believe she's right. Yes, my marriage ended, but in reality, going through that turned me into the woman I am today. I am truly independent. I realized how strong and resourceful I could be when I had to be. I began to really value my friends and family and their support in a new way. And I fell in love with a man that checks all the boxes and who brings out the best in me simply by being himself. My divorce actually made me a happier, better person.
When I think about how far I've come and how much I've grown in the last few years, it is hard for me to say that I regret my marriage because I most certainly don't. It brought me where I am today and for that, I will always be grateful.
Steve Martin Returned to SNL As Recently Indicted Roger Stone: "Pardon Me?"
On Jan. 26, Saturday Night Live's timely cold open featured veteran comedian Steve Martin as recently indicted Roger Stone. Martin portrayed President Donald Trump's former aide during an interview with Tucker Carlson (played by Alex Moffat), and they discussed the seven charges against Stone.
SNL's Carlson attempted to steer Stone toward a narrative of self-pity and frailty. "The pity thing . . . I'm a poor, helpless old man. I'm 66, I'm almost as old as Sting!" Martin's Stone said. He ended his remarks with a bold request for the president: "Pardon me!" Watch the full skit above, which also included Kate McKinnon as Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Cecily Strong as Jeanine Pirro.
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
22 Hot Gadgets Everyone Is Buying on Amazon, and You Should, Too
If you're all about snatching up the latest and greatest gadgets, you've come to the right place. We hunted on Amazon to find the hottest products everyone is buying right now. From automatic mops to at-home smart gardens, you'll wonder how you lived so long without these genius finds. The best part: they're all available on Amazon Prime and will be delivered in just two days. Keep scrolling to shop our top picks.
Traveling in 2019? With This Sleek Luggage, You'll Have One Less Thing to Worry About
When you have the right bag, traveling doesn't have to be stressful. It doesn't matter if you're checking a suitcase or just carrying on, great luggage is a cornerstone of an easy trip; it makes all the difference. Whether you prefer sleek, minimal options, or want a bright, vibrant bag, we've found 10 options you'll absolutely love.
46 Valentine's Day Gifts Your Guy Will Actually Want
Is your man hard to shop for? We're here to ease your troubles. Take a look at our cool and unique picks for Valentine's Day. Whether your guy craves adventure or loves chilling on the couch, there's something for everyone. These gifts are guaranteed to please.
Related: 12 Valentine's Day Gifts That Will Win You Points For Creativity
The Sad Truth - Sometimes Divorce Is the Best Option
There are lots of "D" words in this world that people don't want to say or hear, and divorce is one of them. But sometimes, no matter how you slice it, divorce is the absolute best option.
Don't get me wrong; I'm not an advocate for divorce. I am an advocate for trying your hardest to make your marriage work. But sometimes continually trying to force something together that clearly doesn't belong together ends up doing more harm than good. I know from personal experience.
I never thought I would find myself divorced young. I never thought I would find myself divorced, to be honest. I had been with my husband a total of 14 years, and we had been through so much together. However, we had some fundamental issues that didn't give us the strongest basis for our marriage. In our defense, we were high school sweethearts who stayed together before our identities were fully formed. Before we chose careers. Before we gained our total independence.
I'm on the other side now, and I'm here to tell you something: It's sad. It's hard. But sometimes it's the best option.
We dated, got engaged, moved in, got a dog, got married, and then found ourselves at a crossroads. Little problems had grown into big problems, and the resentment piled on. We were either fighting, not speaking, or being passive-aggressive with each other. We decided to go to therapy. Twice. Then we separated, planned date nights, and spent time together, but the resentment didn't subside. Then we tried one last time to get back together and make it work. Spoiler alert: it didn't.
I cried while we signed our divorce papers. Sobbed. Not because our marriage was over, not because we didn't try, but because the life I thought I was going to have was gone and I didn't know where to start or how to start.
I'm on the other side now and have been for a few years. And I'm here to tell you something: It's sad. It's hard. But sometimes it's the best option.
Here's some real talk. No matter how many people are involved - maybe you have six kids, maybe it's just you and your spouse - you deserve to be happy. Getting divorced is not a selfish act, by any means. Sometimes getting divorced allows you both to become the best versions of yourselves, and you both deserve that. You also both deserve to be fully, completely in love with someone, for better or worse, and to be fully and completely loved back. And sometimes what attracted you to someone changes over time. Maybe these reasons are shallow. Maybe they're deep. Maybe they're serious. Whatever they are, sometimes you need to let go of the baggage to be a better person or a better parent. Your children know you're not happy and may act out. Your parents know you're not happy. Your friends know you're not happy. And if you've exhausted all options, it's time to part ways - hopefully amicably.
I understand that there are lots of consequences with a divorce, too. You may lose friends. You may have to sell the house you made a home. A percentage of your pension - the money you worked so hard for - may be lost to an ex-spouse. These are all hard pills to swallow.
But I will say this: there is absolutely no price tag on happiness. You will make it. You will come out on the other side. And you'll look back and realize that letting go of your marriage was for the best.
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.
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.
Related: Your 2019 Travel Bucket List: 40 Spectacular Destinations to Visit in the New Year
Wondering What 2019 Has in Store For You? The Stars Have the Answer
If you're wondering what might come your way in the new year, be it newfound success at work, a solid relationship, a breakup, or even a move to another city, the stars might have some clues for you. There are a few predictions that can be made for 2019 based on your zodiac sign in the realm of career, relationships, and life choices. If you're eager to see what's in store, check out these 2019 life predictions from Joshua MacGuire ("Joshua the Psychic"), a psychic, astrologer, and life coach in Los Angeles.
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
Don't Be Stressed: We Found 14 Perfect Valentine's Day Gifts For the Guy in Your Life
Guys are tough enough to shop for as it is, but throw in the added pressure of Valentine's Day, and it's enough to want to give up. Don't you worry, though. Our golden rule when gifting: get something you think they'll actually like. Think about who they are, what they do every day, and the little things that make them smile. But, if you're still stumped, we found 14 gifts for men that are practically guaranteed to cement your status as a top gift giver. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
I'm Divorced, but I Don't Regret My Marriage
I can assure you that no one wakes up on their wedding day thinking about divorce. I can also assure you that marriages are hard, and it's not all rainbows and butterflies. There is a lot of baggage. But, to be honest, sometimes those hard times are indicative of something bigger and something that may not be able to be fixed. And the sad truth is, sometimes divorce is absolutely the best option. Let me explain.
I married my high school sweetheart. We had known each other for years and been through so many things together. Obviously, marriage was the next step, and we took the plunge. However, to be honest, we weren't happy together before we got married. We struggled with communication, life goals, and finances. We also had a few problems at the beginning of our relationship that really never got solved. We would pack them away on a shelf for a while and have a good year or two, but then they would resurface - hard - and cause fights and tension. But we continued on to the altar, said our "I dos," and hoped this slump was something we would get out of again - that's the way it always was.
It didn't.
I can't say we didn't do everything we could to save our marriage because the truth is, we did. We went to two different therapists, we tried living apart for a bit to cool down and regroup, we tried living together again. We went on dates to try to reignite a spark, we tried to be extra thoughtful of each other. But at the end of the day, our relationship was lacking something. We as people were lacking something that the other needed.
We both realized that while we loved each other, we were probably never in love with each other. To our defense, we were really too young to know the difference, and we continued forward as we thought we should. We parted as friends and deeply love and respect each other. We still talk every day, and I still think he is an absolutely wonderful man, just not my perfect fit.
I recently read that Jennifer Aniston called her failed marriages successes. And I truly believe she's right. Yes, my marriage ended, but in reality, going through that turned me into the woman I am today. I am truly independent. I realized how strong and resourceful I could be when I had to be. I began to really value my friends and family and their support in a new way. And I fell in love with a man that checks all the boxes and who brings out the best in me simply by being himself. My divorce actually made me a happier, better person.
When I think about how far I've come and how much I've grown in the last few years, it is hard for me to say that I regret my marriage because I most certainly don't. It brought me where I am today and for that, I will always be grateful.
Steve Martin Returned to SNL As Recently Indicted Roger Stone: "Pardon Me?"
On Jan. 26, Saturday Night Live's timely cold open featured veteran comedian Steve Martin as recently indicted Roger Stone. Martin portrayed President Donald Trump's former aide during an interview with Tucker Carlson (played by Alex Moffat), and they discussed the seven charges against Stone.
SNL's Carlson attempted to steer Stone toward a narrative of self-pity and frailty. "The pity thing . . . I'm a poor, helpless old man. I'm 66, I'm almost as old as Sting!" Martin's Stone said. He ended his remarks with a bold request for the president: "Pardon me!" Watch the full skit above, which also included Kate McKinnon as Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Cecily Strong as Jeanine Pirro.
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
These Tech Hacks Are More Life-Changing Than Marie Kondo's Folding Method
The future is here, people, and the age of innovation is upon us! Technology is only getting smarter, and sometimes it's hard to keep up with these tech-savvy changes. It's crazy to see what your handheld devices can do, but it's even crazier when you learn that they can do so much more than you thought.
So get ready, because these tech hacks will stop you right in your (digital) tracks. Learn them now before another digital revolution begins!
Traveling in 2019? With This Sleek Luggage, You'll Have One Less Thing to Worry About
When you have the right bag, traveling doesn't have to be stressful. It doesn't matter if you're checking a suitcase or just carrying on, great luggage is a cornerstone of an easy trip; it makes all the difference. Whether you prefer sleek, minimal options, or want a bright, vibrant bag, we've found 10 options you'll absolutely love.
Ditch Your Jeans! We Found the 11 Best Travel Dresses For Spring and Summer
Traveling in constricting jeans or pants is the worst. Ditch your denim for something much more comfortable: a dress. There are plenty of options that are light and floaty so you can relax on a plane or long road trip. We curated a selection of the very best options that are easy to pack, wrinkle-free, and incredibly cute. Shop through these genius choices and get yourself one before your next vacation. Consider it a smart investment.
Related: 2019 Is Your Year to Travel Like a Pro, Thanks to These 31 Life-Saving Products
29 Pictures of Beautiful Closets That Are Not a Want, but a Need
If your closet has loads of hangers you don't use, is totally disorganized, and smells a little dingy, then I hate to tell you, but it might be time for an upgrade. Luckily, the new year provides an opportunity for a fresh start! If you're looking for some wardrobe inspiration for a cluttered space, then you've come to the right place. Our friends at Sweeten, a free service that matches renovators with contractors, have provided us with some awesome closet pictures that will have you renovating in no time! Let's make 2019 the year of organization, shall we?
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 . . .
Related: 100 Healthy Recipes to Keep Dinner Exciting When You're on a Diet
100+ Things to Do Before You Die
You will never need to read another bucket list again. Trust us when we say this is the mother lode of bucket lists, the bucket list to end all bucket lists, the . . . well, you get the point. It goes without saying that life is short, so get some of these amazing experiences under your belt while you can!
The $320 King-Size Bed Frame That Actually Saved Me Money
My boyfriend and I have been sleeping in a double bed together for a few years now, and while I want to say it's nice that we get the chance to be close at night, it's really just a nightmare. We are both "sideways" sleepers and move around a lot, and a double bed does not give us enough room. At last, we just finally moved into an apartment that has a large enough bedroom for us to upgrade to a king-size bed. I had been waiting so long for this that I was beyond excited.
When I started shopping for beds and mattresses, I was shocked at the prices. Considering the only bed set I had ever owned was purchased by my parents, I didn't know how much it was going to cost me. I decided to to splurge on a nicer mattress in the hopes I would have it for a long time, so I wanted save on my headboard and box spring set. Little did I know that was going to cost me another $500 or so, at the cheapest.
A friend has recently turned me on to shopping for furniture on Amazon, so I decided to take a gamble and check the site. Lo and behold, I found this Zinus Upholstered Platform Bed ($282). The reviews helped me make my decision - it has over 2,100 reviews and a 4.6-star rating. As I was reading the reviews, I noticed people said because of the wooden slats on this frame that I didn't need to purchase a box spring. The mattress could get the same amount of support by the platform bed's wooden slats. This was another money-saving win that finally convinced me to purchase the bed. An added bonus: I live in a city and didn't want to deal with the burden of a delivery. Ordering on Amazon Prime, it was simply delivered to my door within two days.
The bed arrived in a thin box and all the parts (there surprisingly weren't many) showed up in an efficiently packed set. We were able to quickly put together the bed within 15 minutes and I was shocked by how easy it was. It made me realize that not all cheap furniture has to be a disaster to assemble.
I've had the bed for about four months now, and I love it. It works in perfect harmony with my mattress, and by not having to purchase a box spring, I actually saved money.
19 Incredible Furniture Pieces Everyone Is Buying From Amazon, and We See Why
Shopping for new furniture can be overwhelming because there are so many choices out there. To make your experience more seamless, we turned to Amazon since it has a great selection of affordable choices and in-house collections you can't find anywhere else. The best part: a majority of its best pieces are available on Prime, so they'll be delivered right to your door within just a few days. Shop our favorites ahead, from sofas to bookshelves and console tables.
29 Pictures of Beautiful Closets That Are Not a Want, but a Need
If your closet has loads of hangers you don't use, is totally disorganized, and smells a little dingy, then I hate to tell you, but it might be time for an upgrade. Luckily, the new year provides an opportunity for a fresh start! If you're looking for some wardrobe inspiration for a cluttered space, then you've come to the right place. Our friends at Sweeten, a free service that matches renovators with contractors, have provided us with some awesome closet pictures that will have you renovating in no time! Let's make 2019 the year of organization, shall we?
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 . . .
Related: 100 Healthy Recipes to Keep Dinner Exciting When You're on a Diet
100+ Things to Do Before You Die
You will never need to read another bucket list again. Trust us when we say this is the mother lode of bucket lists, the bucket list to end all bucket lists, the . . . well, you get the point. It goes without saying that life is short, so get some of these amazing experiences under your belt while you can!
The $320 King-Size Bed Frame That Actually Saved Me Money
My boyfriend and I have been sleeping in a double bed together for a few years now, and while I want to say it's nice that we get the chance to be close at night, it's really just a nightmare. We are both "sideways" sleepers and move around a lot, and a double bed does not give us enough room. At last, we just finally moved into an apartment that has a large enough bedroom for us to upgrade to a king-size bed. I had been waiting so long for this that I was beyond excited.
When I started shopping for beds and mattresses, I was shocked at the prices. Considering the only bed set I had ever owned was purchased by my parents, I didn't know how much it was going to cost me. I decided to to splurge on a nicer mattress in the hopes I would have it for a long time, so I wanted save on my headboard and box spring set. Little did I know that was going to cost me another $500 or so, at the cheapest.
A friend has recently turned me on to shopping for furniture on Amazon, so I decided to take a gamble and check the site. Lo and behold, I found this Zinus Upholstered Platform Bed ($282). The reviews helped me make my decision - it has over 2,100 reviews and a 4.6-star rating. As I was reading the reviews, I noticed people said because of the wooden slats on this frame that I didn't need to purchase a box spring. The mattress could get the same amount of support by the platform bed's wooden slats. This was another money-saving win that finally convinced me to purchase the bed. An added bonus: I live in a city and didn't want to deal with the burden of a delivery. Ordering on Amazon Prime, it was simply delivered to my door within two days.
The bed arrived in a thin box and all the parts (there surprisingly weren't many) showed up in an efficiently packed set. We were able to quickly put together the bed within 15 minutes and I was shocked by how easy it was. It made me realize that not all cheap furniture has to be a disaster to assemble.
I've had the bed for about four months now, and I love it. It works in perfect harmony with my mattress, and by not having to purchase a box spring, I actually saved money.
19 Incredible Furniture Pieces Everyone Is Buying From Amazon, and We See Why
Shopping for new furniture can be overwhelming because there are so many choices out there. To make your experience more seamless, we turned to Amazon since it has a great selection of affordable choices and in-house collections you can't find anywhere else. The best part: a majority of its best pieces are available on Prime, so they'll be delivered right to your door within just a few days. Shop our favorites ahead, from sofas to bookshelves and console tables.
If You Haven't Heard, 2019 Is the Year We'll All Be Drinking Matcha
Matcha has gone mainstream, and as an everyday consumer, I couldn't be more thrilled. Matcha is essentially a much more concentrated form of green tea, aka it's got a lot more caffeine per cup. The taste is a little earthy, but paired with your favorite milk, it's seriously delicious; so good, in fact, that I don't like to start my morning without it. But 2019 is the year that matcha goes from "that green drink" to a staple in every health-conscious person's pantry, and it's not just for drinking. Just keep reading to shop our favorite matcha products that will have keep calm and energized well into 2019.
We Answer Once and For All: Do You Really Need to Eat Breakfast?
It's sound advice we heard from our moms since we were little: eat breakfast; it's the most important meal of the day. As we got older, that advice evolved into "if you eat breakfast, you're less likely to feel famished and gorge at lunchtime." It was a tried-and-true trick for people looking to lose weight; a small randomized trial in 1992 found that eating breakfast helped minimize impulsive snacking and "therefore may be an important part of a weight-reduction program." And a 2003 review published in the American Journal of Epidemiology also found that skipping breakfast was associated with an increased prevalence of obesity.
As time and nutrition advice evolved, we had to wonder: is breakfast all it's cracked up to be? It's supposed to give you energy and fuel you for the long day ahead, but people who practice intermittent fasting (IF) swear by the health benefits of forgoing breakfast and only eating during an eight-hour window, usually just lunch and dinner.
Although breakfast is important when you're a kid so you can pay attention during school and aren't starving by lunchtime, our habits and appetites evolve as we get older. What if you just aren't hungry when you wake up or don't care for eggs and avocado toast? We spoke to four dietitians, who broke it down for us.
The Health Benefits of Eating Breakfast
If you wake up dreaming of eggs, bacon, and toast, there's no need to change your breakfast-loving ways. "Every meal is important, but breakfast does provide energy for morning activities as well as glucose for the brain," sports dietitian Cindy Dallow, PhD, RD, told POPSUGAR. Plus, eating soon after you wake up ensures that your blood sugar will be stabilized throughout the day, explained Elora Bazanele, RD, LD, founder of Love Food B Fit. "Eating breakfast can help prevent us from overeating at other meals and can help to ensure that we get all the nutrients that our bodies need to conquer the day," Bazanele told POPSUGAR.
Of course, what you eat for breakfast matters; you can't expect to eat doughnuts and croissants for breakfast every day and lose weight. Lauren Harris-Pincus, MS, RDN, author of The Protein-Packed Breakfast Club, recommends eating at least 20 grams of protein at breakfast to help with muscle growth and repair. Loading up on this macronutrient will also ensure that you stay full until your next meal and may even boost your metabolism. Need some inspo? Check out these 21 quick high-protein breakfasts.
What Happens When You Skip Breakfast
Some people just aren't hungry in the morning or practice intermittent fasting, where they eat during an eight-hour window, such as from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or noon to 8 p.m. Overall, skipping breakfast every once in a while isn't going to hurt you, Dr. Dallow said. "However, skipping breakfast puts you at risk for several things: overeating later on in the day, low energy level later in the morning, [and] low blood sugar level, which can cause lightheadedness." She said people who practice IF may have low energy and feel lightheaded if they fast during the morning, especially when they are just starting out.
Dr. Dallow explained that if you're just not hungry in the morning, it could be from eating too much the night before; getting into a cycle of eating a large meal at night and nothing in the morning could set you up for an eating pattern where you consume more calories than you should because it's easier to eat more at night.
If you do practice IF, you may want to shift your eating window so you get some calories earlier in the day, like from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Final Verdict
All in all, it's up to you. There's no real black-and-white answer for the great breakfast debate. "If you find eating breakfast starts you off on the right foot, then eat it," registered dietitian Laura Ligos, MBA, RDN, told POPSUGAR. "If, however, you find you are forcing yourself to eat breakfast but are not hungry, then you may not need breakfast and can wait until later in the morning to [eat]. You need to eat enough to fuel your day, but you should never force yourself to eat."
In 2014, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that whether people ate or skipped breakfast had "no discernible effect on weight loss" for adults who were attempting to lose weight, and in 2016 the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics put out a position paper stating that, overall, consuming breakfast doesn't improve weight-loss outcomes and that it boils down to each person's nutritional needs. And while children and adolescents should still eat breakfast, both for brain and overall health benefits, you don't need to eat your morning meal as an adult unless you want to.
There are some groups who should regularly eat breakfast, such as those with diabetes who need to regulate their blood sugar or if you take specific medications that need to be consumed with food. Otherwise, it's best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to find a plan that works best for you. You shouldn't force-feed yourself a meal as soon as you wake up if you aren't hungry, but you shouldn't skip breakfast if it's something you enjoy that keeps you feeling satisfied. Listen to your hunger cues and make the best decision that fits your lifestyle.
Here's How You Can Build an At-Home Gym For Under $75
Yesterday, when I went to go work out in the morning, not only was it still dark outside, but the moon was also shining brightly. It was 6:15 a.m., and all I wanted to do was get back in bed. The unavoidable fact that in the Winter, it gets lighter later, combined with the breadth of awesome streaming workouts (Class FitSugar, anyone?) means that now, we shouldn't have to leave our homes to exercise. Just these 12 products can create your very own home gym! As if that wasn't exciting enough, every single one of these items is under $75. Now, let's get moving.
These Are the Ultimate Lazy Girl Meal Prep Essentials
Every time I swipe my credit card to buy lunch, I feel like I'm hemorrhaging money. I think to myself, "Why am I doing this? I could have bought all of these ingredients for about half the price of this designer salad. Plus, I don't know what's in this delicious dressing, which means it's probably not great for me." In an effort to be kinder to both my body and my bank account, I'm trying to start bringing my lunch to work, which means I have to meal prep. Before I even had time to think about it, I turned to Amazon, where I found these 12 meal prep essentials, so even the laziest of chefs (aka me) can leave their excuses in 2018.
This Is What Happens When You Take Ibuprofen Too Often, According to a Doctor
You might be thinking, If I don't need a prescription to buy it, it must be safe to casually take it. For the most part, taking ibuprofen to ease pain is totally harmless and effective. However, a drug's a drug, and if you're taking ibuprofen on the daily, you might start to notice some unfortunate side effects.
First off, what is ibuprofen, exactly? "Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). NSAIDs are frequently used for the treatment of inflammatory and painful conditions and are considered to be one of the most commonly used classes of medications worldwide," Harrison Linder, MD, from the Center for Interventional Pain Medicine at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, tells POPSUGAR.
"The current recommendation for ibuprofen is to limit daily use to no more than 30 days."
It's a handy medicine to stash in your purse, as long as it's used properly in the recommended time span and dosage amount. "The current recommendation for ibuprofen is to limit daily use to no more than 30 days. Dosing can range from 400 milligrams to 800 milligrams up to four times a day with a daily maximum of 3200 milligrams per day," says Dr. Linder.
However, if you exceed that amount or keep taking it well into your second (or third) month, the negative effects begin to outweigh the desired benefits of decreased discomfort and pain, he says.
You might be surprised, but it's actually pretty common for some people to rely on ibuprofen as a way to make it through the day. "Very often, individuals involved in large amounts of physical activity, either athletes or people with physically demanding occupations, will rely on ibuprofen or other NSAIDs as a way to limit daily aches and pains and allow continued function," says Dr. Linder.
Unfortunately, while you might feel that instant hit of relief and make it through a final set of burpees, you could be putting your body at risk down the road. Here's all the info you need to know about ibuprofen, along with the common physical side effects you could experience if you take too much of it.
Friendly PSA: Trader Joe's Has a New Protein-Packed Ice Cream For Just $2 a Pint!
Look, I love getting my daily protein fix by devouring a bowlful of nutritious, protein-packed ice cream, but you know what I don't love? How much said pints of ice cream usually cost. Typically hovering between the $4 to $6 mark for a teeny-tiny container, they're admittedly a bit of a splurge. At last, Trader Joe's has a solution to spare my whimpering wallet and never-satisfied sweet tooth.
The beloved grocery store now sells Swell ice cream (which used to be branded under the name ProYo) for just $1.99 - yep, as in just one George Washington bill and 99 shiny pennies. Flavors offered at Trader Joe's include Dutch Chocolate, Vanilla Bean, Mocha, and Mint Chip, all of which contain 10 grams of protein, 120 calories, and 9 grams of sugar per each half-cup serving size. Oh, and they're gluten- and soy-free, too.
So far, it looks like Swell's pints have started popping up at a few TJ's locations in California, but we're crossing our fingers (and toes!) that they make their way across the states ASAP. If you simply can't contain your excitement to taste-test Swell's high-protein ice cream, you can use the store locator to see if any other retailers near you offer the pints.
5 Pieces of Home Gym Equipment That Will Revolutionize Your Workouts in 2019
One of the biggest trends in fitness is the expanding market for on-demand workouts. (After all, we're just so busy.) Being able to exercise in the privacy of your own home while still feeling like you're part of a class might be just what you need to step up your game and bring your fitness to a whole new level. And, if a class structure isn't what you crave? There are innovations in other types of equipment, too - like a sleek, chic treadmill that folds down small enough to fit under your bed. For real! Keep reading to get started building the home gym of your dreams.
These 20 Naked Yogis Posing by the Ocean and Waterfalls Are Breathtaking
As if seeing naked yoga photos wasn't gorgeous enough, these yogis found water and felt inspired to pose. Whether it was near a calm ocean, a flowing waterfall, or a serene lake, you're sure to feel the beauty and tranquility rush over you while you look through these breathtaking shots.
This Total-Body Strength Workout Will Make You a Better, Faster, and More Efficient Runner
The only way to get better at something is practice. If you want to be a better runner, you've got to do running workouts, but you also need to strength train. I'm not saying you have to become a bodybuilder, but you do need a strength foundation to prevent injury and improve your strength endurance and speed.
By incorporating one to two strength training sessions a week into your current running program, you're bound to see an improvement in your performance. If you haven't started training for your next race, I highly recommend following this four-week workout plan to build a strength foundation.
Now, it's time to switch gears and strengthen your muscles.
The Workout
Before you get started with the workout, be sure to activate your glutes and your abdominal muscles (don't forget to do these drills before your runs). This workout is broken up into three different portions. You'll start with plyometric exercises that will help with reaction time to the ground, which translates to explosive power, speed, and force production. After that, you'll take two minutes of rest, then transition to the strength exercises. The rep and set scheme is for strength endurance, which you'll need to get through speed workouts, long-distance workouts, and race day. Don't forget to cool down after the workout.
- Box jump: three sets for 30 seconds
- High knees: three sets of 30 reps
- Plyo lunge: three sets of 10 reps
- Bent-over row: three sets of 12 reps
- Banded assisted pull-up: three sets of 12 reps
- Plank with knee tap: two sets of 10 reps
- Farmer's carry: two sets of 10 steps each direction
- Plank walk: two sets of 10 reps
- Step-up: three sets of 12 reps each leg
- Deadlift with knee drive: three sets of 12 reps each leg
- Dumbbell walking lunge: two sets of 10 reps
These Chicken Dishes Are Short on Carbs but Not on Flavor - and Perfect For Meal Prep
Meal prep is crucial for getting dinner on the table fast, especially if you're trying to follow a low-carb diet. (Let's face it: there aren't many takeout options that won't sabotage your efforts.) If saving money is part of your motivation for preparing meals at home, you'll need to use every last item in your kitchen - including those chicken breasts at the back of your freezer. But it's easy to fall into a rut, making the same salad or chicken and broccoli again and again. These low-carb chicken ideas will breathe some life back into your meal planning. Keep reading, and make that grocery list.
I Did This 30-Day Flat-Belly Workout Plan - and Here's Why You Should Too
I could stand to lose some belly fat. I wish it was as easy as just eating less or doing some crunches, but it's never as easy to take weight off as it is to put it on. It takes a combination of hard work, eating right, and burning calories - but you already know all that.
What you may not realize is that to lose stubborn belly fat, you can't just rely on doing a bunch of crunches. You have to work your entire body so that weight falls off everywhere, including your belly. That's why I gave POPSUGAR's 30 Days to a Flat Belly workout plan a try to kick-start my healthy journey.
With this workout plan, you'll have 30 days of at-home workouts that are 30 minutes or less and work your body from head to toe. You can have unlimited access to the entire plan for just $9.99, and you can watch whatever videos tickle your fancy whenever you'd like - after you complete the recommended 30 days, that is!
I gave the entire 30-day plan a whirl - over the holidays, no less - to see if it would actually make a difference, and while I have a long way to go in losing belly fat, this was a great way to get started. Keep reading to see just how it went for me.
Articles
