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 11 février 2019
Sofia Vergara Is Empowering Women With Her New Walmart Line: "I Love Fashion, I Love Jeans, I Love Women"
Sofia Vergara has been bringing the laughs for seasons on Modern Family, but now the star is inspiring happiness in an entirely new way with the release of an affordable denim line with Walmart.com. The online-only collection includes almost 100 items ranging from jeans and denim jackets to graphic tees and will offer sizes ranging from 0-20. The best part? It's all $40 or less.
The actress (and now, designer) spoke with us to give the scoop on all the details of her new line. Read on to hear more secrets on the collection from Sofia herself and to shop our favorite pieces available at Walmart.
"I don't care what anyone says, all women want to look cute. If I can have them look at themselves in the mirror and say, 'Oh damn, I look super cute,' I'm happy."
POPSUGAR: What inspired you to create this line with Walmart?
Sofia Vergara: I love fashion, I love jeans, I love women. I like buying clothes and I have access to a lot of things, but I have always imagined what I could create at a lower price than what I already buy. I wanted to create a jean line because I think it's one of the most important pieces of clothing every woman owns in 2019. I don't know anyone who doesn't own a pair of jeans. My mom is 70 and she wears jeans, my niece is 26 and wears jeans. I needed a retailer like Walmart to get it out there and I think we did a great job with the line. Since the moment the jeans came back from production, I've been wearing them! It makes me really proud to see them on the models. They are of all sizes and they all look so amazing.
PS: Do you have a favorite piece from the collection?
SV: My favorite is the Sofia; I named them after myself. I have that same style of jeans in other expensive brands, so I re-created it with a more affordable price. The style is super comfortable and beautiful.
These Are Frida Kahlo's Favorite Beauty Brands, and You're Probably Wearing Them
These days, you can spot Revlon products gracing the faces of everyone from Gal Gadot to Ashley Graham, but we bet you'd never guess one of the brand's historical fans. As The Guardian reports, none other than Mexican artist Frida Kahlo used the brand's products to fill in her famous unibrow during the mid-20th century.
This news comes via an exhibition at London's V&A Museum that features more than 200 of Kahlo's possessions and beauty Instagram account, Estée Laundry sharing some close up images of her favorite products. These items were saved by the artist's husband Diego Rivera, who locked up the belongings in a room of the "Blue House" they shared together near Mexico City.
Per Rivera's wishes, Kahlo's things were left untouched until 2004. While the collection contains many items such as clothing and the back support corset Kahlo wore after a bus accident that almost killed her, beauty lovers will mostly be interested in the makeup products she wore.
Among Kahlo's collection are two Revlon products: a black brow pencil and a lipstick called "Everything's Rosy," which was supposedly her go-to. Both products are sadly discontinued, but we love the brand's current ColorStay Brow Pencil ($5), as the creamy formula helps darken and shape even the lightest of brows into a Kahlo-approved masterpiece. Other products in her arsenal include reds and pinks that give Kahlo her famous power red look, as well as a staple favorite, Ponds Cold Cream.
- Additional reporting by Tori Crowther
This Is What a Dietitian Really Thinks About J Lo's 10-Day No Carbs and Sugar Challenge
In case you didn't know, Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez have started a 10-day no sugar and no carbohydrates challenge that is going viral. The couple also challenged a few of their celebrity friends like Michael Strahan, Leah Remini, and Hoda Kotb to join in on the, err, uhhh . . . fun? We love a good challenge, but we wanted to know the pros and cons of eliminating carbs and sugars from our diet. POPSUGAR spoke to Despina Hyde Gandhi, MS, RD at NYU Langone's Weight Management Program to find out if their challenge is worth following.
Is It OK to Eliminate Carbs From Our Diet?
"Our body preferentially burns carbohydrates for energy; it's our preferred fuel source," Despina told POPSUGAR. "So what happens when people restrict carbs to a really low amount, and that number is usually around 40 to 50 grams per day, the body has to shift gears so it needs to find another fuel source." Instead of burning carbs for energy, your body will begin to burn fat for energy which is a metabolic state called ketosis, she explained.
If you're trying to burn fat this may sound great, but Despina said when going low-carb, "Not everyone feels well. It may make you feel tired, lethargic, have headaches, and dizziness." People cut out obvious sources of carbs like bread, pasta, and rice, but according to Despina, it's hard to completely cut out carbs because foods like vegetables still contain carbs.
Despina doesn't promote eliminating carbs because, "When you cut out carbs, you're saying no to fruit, you're saying no to legumes and lentils, sweet potatoes, and all these wonderful foods that provide fiber for us. It's really hard to get fiber from protein . . . so carbohydrates provide a good source of fiber and also vitamins and minerals," she explained. Despina said people may overeat carbs but, "I don't think we need to cut them out completely." Instead, she recommends incorporating "a reasonable amount at each meal" in order to stay balanced.
In a previous interview with POPSUGAR, Lori Zanini, RD, CDE said, "45 to 65 percent of the average person's daily caloric intake should be made up of carbohydrates." The USDA recommends that people one year and older consume a minimum of 130 grams of carbohydrates per day.
Is It OK to Eliminate Sugar From Our Diets?
Eliminating carbs may make you feel lackluster but cutting out added and processed sugars won't do you any harm. "If you cut out sugar from added sources it's going to be a good thing. In the American diet we probably get too much of that," she said. A benefit of eliminating added sugars is that you'll more than likely begin to eat more whole foods as opposed to foods that have been processed, Despina said. You may also experience a boost in your mood as added sugars disrupt our insulin levels and tend to make us feel unwell and tired.
But when you cut out complex carbohydrates (the "good carbs") like sweet potatoes and lentils, which are technically a form of sugar, you miss out on fiber which promotes digestion and can actually help you lose weight. According to Despina, naturally-occurring sugars like fructose, which occurs in fruits, and lactose, which naturally occurs in milk and yogurt, provide nutrients in the form of minerals and protein for us. "If you say goodbye to all of those things just because they have sugar, you're going to miss out on nutrients that your body needs."
Despina's final verdict on the no carbs and sugar challenge: "Instead of taking the approach of cutting [them] out completely . . . make sure that you're eating healthy, high-fiber complex carbohydrates and eliminating refined sugars and added sugars and processed carbs."
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.
The Sexiest Books of All Time Will Have You Blushing With Every Turn of the Page
Sexiness in books is preconceived to be limited to romance novels, but it's more than that. It's a universal concept that takes on many connotations about having power and agency and challenging old norms about sex. Whether it's Lolita and Anna Karenina for class or picking up Zane's book for pleasure (pun intended), these stories center on a woman's narrative or celebrate sexuality in a liberating way that's not exclusive to romance. Books that were considered too scandalous and taboo for society are now being praised for their revolutionary schools of thought, particularly now because we are at a juncture in society where we're having open discourses about sex and pushing marginalized voices to the forefront. The impressive books on this list have been doing that way before it registered in our collective consciousness.
These 11 Lingerie Sets Look Fancy . . . but They're All on Amazon and Under $13
You never need an excuse to wear lingerie. You also don't need to have a significant other to buy it, obviously. Treat yourself to sultry things, girl. There's something sexy and empowering about slipping into something for yourself, whether you're rocking it under your clothes or wearing it to bed. If you're on the hunt for lingerie that's both sexy and affordable, we've got you covered. Amazon has all sorts of pretty options, and we rounded up our favorite designs for under $13. With prices this low, you can stock up. You obviously deserve it, so drop these goodies in your virtual shopping cart now!
Show Him Some Love This Valentine's Day With the 131 Best High-Tech Gifts of 2019
It doesn't matter whether he's your dad, husband, or brother, shopping for men who already have their dens decked out with every tech toy imaginable is tough. So we've put together a Valentine's Day gift guide for the guys who have it all. These are gifts he definitely won't expect this V-Day.
- With Haley Lyndes, India Yaffe, Krista Jones, Nicole Yi, and Tara Block
This Guy's Spoof About Millennial Boyfriends Is So Accurate, I'm Cry-Laughing Into My Rosé
Men, grab a notepad and listen up, because comedian Trey Kennedy is here to teach you everything you need to know about being the picture-perfect millennial boyfriend - with a hilarious twist, of course. In one of his recent weekly videos, the YouTube personality breaks down some "lessons" about the key to a young gal's heart, and the whole thing is just so painfully accurate, I'm honestly wondering if Trey was a millennial woman in a past life.
Before explaining the ideal formula for a mushy goodnight text message, he lays out all the foods a boyfriend should provide his lady to keep her happy, narrowing it down to the acronym "SPIRIT," which stands for sushi, pizza, ice cream, Rosé, iced coffee, and tacos. I mean, he's not wrong. Check out a few other standout teachings below, then join the more than six million people who have viewed Trey's viral video by watching it above.
- "Who in here thinks you should be the only man in her life? Wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong. There's gonna be two other men in her life: one's named Ben, one's named Jerry."
- "When she's in a dark place, dark chocolate in her face."
- "If you go on vacations with your girl, you're no longer her boyfriend - you're a photographer. You're a Boomerang specialist. You're a frickin' paparazzi."
- "Any Bachelor fans in the house? All of your hands should be raised. You will be. And if she asks if any of the girls on the show are pretty, remember this: 'Play dumb, save your bum.'"
12 Valentine's Day Gifts That Will Win You Points For Creativity
Ready or not, Valentine's Day is upon us, and finding the perfect gift is half the battle. While flowers are always lovely, finding something personal and creative will make your SO smile and know that you thought of them. If you're looking to do something a little different this year, try one of these 12 gifts.
Lizzie McGuire? Cheetah Girls? Raven? These Disney Channel T-Shirts Are a '00s Dream
Hot Topic is selling trendy t-shirts inspired by Disney Channel originals, and while we would have appreciated these, say, 15 years ago, we are grateful we get to gaze upon them at all! Designed by Her Universe, the t-shirts honor classics like Lizzie McGuire, The Cheetah Girls, That's So Raven, and Kim Possible. What's more, they're all on sale - with the exception of the Lizzie McGuire t-shirt, which is, truthfully, the cutest aesthetically.
Again, while these t-shirts would have made a little more sense in the '00s, go ahead and get your Cheetah Girls t-shirt. In fact, get four for you and your cheetah sisters! No judgment whatsoever. Check them all out ahead.
Related: Hilary Duff Teased a Lizzie McGuire Revival, and This Is What Dreams Are Made Of
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.
My Mom, Daughter, and I Take a Girls' Trip Every Winter, and You Should, Too
As a Midwesterner, I like to say that I'm a fan of the seasons, but I'm lying. I pretty much despise Winter. Sure, I'll admire the beauty of the first snowfall and revel in the guilt-free nature of Netflix binges in front of a fire (it's too cold to do anything else), but really, my favorite part of Winter is escaping it. And my favorite excursion, undoubtedly, is the annual trip my mom, my daughter, and I take for a long weekend in February.
I love the men in our lives, but there's something about a girls-only getaway that's so extraordinary.
Our destination is a resort where drinks are served on the beach and by the adjacent pool and the preferred mode of transportation is a golf cart. And while that's all part of the allure, it's really the company that makes this particular trip one that I know all three of us will cherish for the rest of our lives.
Don't get me wrong: I love the men in our lives - grandpas, dads, uncles, and brothers - but there's something about a girls-only getaway that's so different and extraordinary. As wonderful as those boys and men of ours may be, their agendas and ideas of what constitutes fun are often much different than our own. But when it's just the ladies, we can fully relax and bond while doing the things we love, which, yes, includes shopping, spa-going, and sunning.
Some of my own favorite childhood memories involve taking big-city trips with my grandma, aunt, and mom, where we would spend hours wandering the stores on Chicago's Michigan Avenue, then retire to our hotel room to chat about everything under the sun and order room service. I remember listening to them call their husbands to check in, but, truthfully, we didn't miss them a bit. We were loving every minute of glorious girl time.
Our annual beach vacation gives my 7-year-old daughter this same wonderful experience with the added benefits of a few extra days and escaping the cold, and I know she appreciates both as much as I do. Away from school schedules and family routines, we're able to just enjoy each other, and any time her moodiness or my stubbornness threatens that enjoyment, Grandma is there to quell the storm and remind us how lucky we are to have each other. And we are so lucky.
This trip, like my childhood girls' trips, won't last forever. One day, my daughter won't think sharing a room with her mom and grandma sounds like a dream, and one day, my mom won't be around for us both to love on. But this year, and hopefully next year and the year after that, we're all on the same page, thrilled to have quality time together. And I plan to soak up every minute of it.
There's a Period Emoji Coming, So I Guess That's a Step in the Right Direction
It's announced! We're super excited to let you know that we're finally getting a #PeriodEmoji!
It is coming to keyboards from March 2019🎉
Find out more here▶https://t.co/dKd4WwEShX pic.twitter.com/vz2FrJw3Gk- PlanInternational UK (@PlanUK) February 6, 2019
All of the emoji you normally use to indicate that you're on your cycle can go back to their original uses now, because thanks to a campaign led by Plan International UK, we're finally getting the period emoji that we all bloody deserve (sorry). Plan International UK is a girls' rights organization that's spent the last few years attempting to get the emoji added to keyboards as a way to destigmatize periods, and make it an easier topic for women to talk to their peers about.
"The fact so many women in this country still find it difficult to talk to work colleagues, friends, and family about their period shows that it remains a taboo subject and something women feel ashamed to discuss," Girls' Rights Campaign Manager Lucy Russell said when the push began in 2017. "We know that these taboos can have a damaging impact on the lives of girls around the world. Many missing school because they face bullying or unfair treatment, or experiencing infections due to a lack of menstrual hygiene education and products."
Russell continued, "Women have told us that by having an emoji, it will make it easier for them to talk about periods with others and so that's why we're addressing the need and creating something that everyone can use. Hopefully this will go some way towards breaking down the stigma surrounding periods once and for all." Unicode officially confirmed in February that the character, a red drop of blood, will be released with the newest batch of emoji coming soon.
Here's Why Divorce Just Isn't an Option For Us
A little over 11 years ago, my husband and I stood together in a room full of our family and friends - and a few random, obscure cousins no one had ever mentioned until it was time to mail out wedding invitations - and promised to love each other in good times and in bad. I meant those words when I said them that day, but the truth is I didn't really understand their true implication. We were just kids who fell in love and thought the security marriage offered seemed like a pretty solid way to go. But we also respected the institution and wouldn't have bothered getting hitched if we weren't planning on staying together. And even though we were young enough to stay out drinking all night, then go to work the next day without feeling even remotely hungover, my husband and I believed then that marriage was a lifelong commitment and that divorce wasn't really an option.
Related: Zodiac Signs Most Likely to Divorce, Ranked From Most to Least
I know now how naive I was when I repeated my vows that day. Because I distinctly remember looking at our pastor and thinking, "How bad could times get?" Oh, if only I could go back and tell that dewy-skinned bride she would come to know very bad times. I'd tap my dapper new hubby's shoulder and gently whisper in his ear how our fairly naive sense of what fidelity meant would be more than tested. But the wiser, more-hardened-by-life me would also want that beaming, wide-eyed couple to know they'd get through the toughest of times, grow to appreciate their dedication to each other, and respect the sanctity of marriage more than they ever thought possible.
That may sound all glossy and pretty, but know that the word "divorce" has been uttered in our home many times. I whimpered it from the floor of our foyer, where I lay, deeply depressed, after losing a baby late in pregnancy. "How can we stay together when our lives have fallen so spectacularly to pieces?" I wondered, my grief so raw and out in the open, while his was hidden behind a strong exterior as he carried on with his life as if nothing had happened. The word "divorce" was paraded about again during the many months we spent apart due to career obligations. I figured, why keep trying so damn hard to keep our marriage alive if the universe was so intent on forcing us to be apart? There have been other tough times; we were eaten alive by the bad housing market, and we've fought bitterly over in-laws, finances, and, ironically, how we fight so differently from each other. We've been dug down deep in the trenches of raising four kids, working opposite schedules, and subsisting on no sleep, leftovers, and hope things would get just a tad easier.
Here's the beauty of surviving really awful, brutal, miserable, sometimes heartbreaking bad times: you realize that if you were going to split up, you would have done it already.
But here's the beauty of surviving really awful, brutal, miserable, sometimes heartbreaking bad times: you realize that if you were going to split up, you would have done it already. That if you managed to weather all that sh*t - and you've said the worst things to each other, you've thrown the "d" word out, you've cried and driven away, flown away, slept on the sofa, at a hotel, literally been sure you hated the other person for even being born - well, from there, you can exhale. And accept that the two of you are in this - really, truly, 100 percent in it. That there's no splitting up; there's only sticking together through it all. At this point, what we've built is so strong, the bad times don't have a chance to topple our foundation. I'll stop short at saying we laugh in the face of bad times, but you get my point.
It's hard to imagine that something else could happen in the future for us to even consider ending our marriage. Of course, before any of that other stuff happened, it was hard to imagine, too. Unfortunately, you just never know where life will take you, but that's something you're promising to deal with together when you say "I do." So, I'm sure in another decade, I'll be reflecting on the challenges my husband and I have faced. As I contemplate the many highs and lows we will have undoubtedly experienced, I can only hope he is right there by my side. And that we are as devoted to this union then as we are today. And that we have even more reverence for the vows we spoke to each other on our wedding day, all those years ago.
dimanche 10 février 2019
101 Sister Tattoos That Prove She's Your Best Friend in the World
Some best friends you find in life, and some you're born with. There are certain things only your sister can understand, and there's no better (or more lasting) way to show your sisterly love than with matching tattoos that will last a lifetime. We've rounded up creative ideas that will show how deep your bond really goes.
- Additional reporting by Hilary White
Hit the Open Sea With Your Significant Other on the Most Romantic Cruises of 2019
There are few experiences more romantic than setting sail to dreamy destinations with the person you love. Imagine sunset dinners among the ocean breeze, indulgent spa treatments like couples massages and body wraps, incredible vistas, and dancing under the stars. Are you ready to pack your bags yet?! Whether you're in search of a seafaring getaway for an unforgettable holiday, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply because you are in love, read on for the 12 most romantic cruises for sailing away in 2019!
This Couple Got Their Happily Ever After With a Fairy-Tale-Themed Wedding
ReAnne and Tyler first met during their orientation at Disney World, so it is only fitting that they chose to have a magical, fairy-tale-themed wedding. The pair tied the knot in Mount Pleasant, SC, and a photographer from Riverland Studios was there to capture this scenic wedding.
"ReAnne envisioned pixie dust strewn across her perfect wedding day, and from the dress to the dance, the day played out of a storybook," said the photographer.
ReAnne looked like she was straight out of a fairy tale in a ballgown-style wedding dress with lace detailing, and Tyler looked handsome in a suit with a Tinkerbell-inspired green patterned bow tie as they exchanged rings. Inside their venue, the rustic wood was lined with a string of cafe lights to enhance the enchanting ambiance of the room. ReAnne also carried a bouquet made out of green shrubs to match the green placemats and centerpieces in the room. All the greenery in the wedding gave the illusion of a forest setting, which is the perfect place for a great fairy tale like ReAnne and Tyler's wedding.
See photos of this charming wedding ahead!
I Had a Huge Wedding - and I Don't Regret It
When people learn I'm Greek-American, their minds often turn to the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding. I'm frequently asked, "Is that movie accurate? Was your wedding like that?" Yes, I respond. All of it. That movie basically sums up my wedding. I even have the pesky brothers who taught my fiancé all of the naughty swear words in Greek.
Planning a wedding can be stressful - particularly when it comes to the guest list. Maybe one partner prefers an intimate affair while the other wants to invite all of the neighbors in the subdivision. In my case, my husband and I knew from the moment we got engaged that our wedding was going to be big - and loud.
When I said "yes" to my not-Greek boyfriend, my mother began planning the biggest, fattest Greek wedding that she could. I had no control over it, and I did not care. My parents raised four very unruly children, and none of us ended up in jail, so my mom earned the right to plan my entire wedding, and it was big. The invite list was over 450 people - that kind of big.
I remember sitting with my then-fiancé in my parents' family room one weekend. We had booked the grand hall, I had picked my dress, and next came the tightening up of other details. "OK," my mom said, bringing out three sheets of paper covered in names. "It's time to talk guest list." She had a certain mischievousness in her voice. I knew exactly what that meant.
"You're inviting the entire church, aren't you, Mom?" I asked.
"Nooo," she said. "But there are many people who we have to invite. So get started on your list, too."
Our list didn't even compare to my parents'. I'll admit that at first, it bothered me a little. My young, selfish mind thought, "Isn't it our wedding? We should get to invite more people than my parents!" But then I realized that the people on this grand guest list helped raise me, too. They wanted to attend my wedding and help us celebrate. Looking back, I feel grateful.
On the big day, when my three brothers opened up the church doors, the congregation was packed - standing room only. Thankfully, it wasn't as uneven as the movie: my husband's side of the church actually had guests in it, too. I felt the love of everyone as I walked down the aisle to the altar and again after we were announced as "husband and wife."
The wedding reception felt like fireworks. My husband and I walked through the doors, and the Greeks lived up to their loud stereotype: cheering, standing, and whistling. After we ate and sauntered through our first dance as a couple, my husband and I floated through the classy decorated hall (not obnoxious, and very blue, like the movie) and greeted every single table. My husband shook the hands of people he had never met, and I hugged them all. We didn't mind taking time out of our night to thank people who wanted to be present at our wedding. We felt the opposite, actually - really freaking grateful.
I don't regret having a big fat Greek wedding at all. Some people may argue that having a large wedding is overly lavish and unnecessary. Sure, you're right. But sometimes, having large weddings is just part of your big, tight-knit culture. I feel honored that my parents could invite all of their closest relatives and friends. They were proud of their one and only daughter, and I was not going to be the one to rob them of that joy. If I had to do it all over again, I would - for my parents. Because sometimes your wedding day is bigger than you.
Fly Into 2019 in the Top-Rated Airports in North America
Airports are the doorways to seeing the world, and anyone who's done a fair amount of traveling knows that not all airports are created equal. Having a smooth and enjoyable airport experience can absolutely set the mood for the start (and sometimes middle and end) of your trip. To help you map out your travel routes and layovers for 2019, we pulled picks from The Points Guy and J.D. Power to bring you the top-rated airports in the US and Canada. So take note, travelers! Whether it's for efficiency, friendliness, rock-star amenities, or supercool vibes, the following 30 North American airports have earned a reputation for excellence.
Forget Valentine's Day, We're All About Celebrating Galentine's Day With Your BFFs
If you're single this Valentine's Day, why not celebrate with your best girlfriends? Let's be real here: you may be in and out of relationships, but your best friends are always by your side. If you are looking for some inspiration to throw a spectacular Galentine's Day party, then look no further than this amazing Galentine's Day-themed photo shoot.
This party shoot is awash in an array of pink-toned colors and features food and travel bloggers from Austin, TX. "The color palettes for this theme was: blush pink, cream, and neutrals with accents of coral and rose gold," said photographer Gina Park, who orchestrated this shoot. "I wanted the celebration to have a bohemian lounge feel to the morning that would allow for an easy transition from sips and treats to painting. The painting elements were played throughout the decor, from the hand-printed invites, signage, and table runner, to the mini easels with the individual names of each blogger that replaced traditional place cards."
The shoot took place at the Prospect House, which provided the team with a lovely, bright, open-concept space filled with natural lighting. The desserts and sweet treats were provided by a local bakery and the highlight was a strawberry-and-vanilla cake with pink frosted flowers. Even if you're not planning a Galentine's Day party, there are lots of ideas that could work for a pretty bridal shower.
Keep reading and keep an eye out for all of the beautiful details.
Thirty, Flirty, and Never Too Old For a Birthday Cake Smash
While some people might think that cake smashes are only allowed at young children's birthday parties, this 30-year-old birthday girl proves that you're never too old to have fun.
Photographer Cydney Craft-Macomber explained the inspiration behind this shoot, saying, "Danielle's husband, Eli, contacted us to do a surprise 30th birthday photo shoot complete with a cake smash for her. Heck yes! We even threw in a bottle of wine from the local corner store for even more fun!"
Take a look at some of these photos, and don't be surprised if you're inspired to smash some cake!
102 Tiny Tattoos For Big-Time Besties
Take your friendship to the next level and get a tattoo with your BFF! If you're looking for something that's not too over the top, we have found some tiny tattoos that are downright adorable. Check out these small but mighty options with your bestie.
- Additional reporting by Macy Williams
Getting Married? Spice Up Your Engagement and Wedding Photos With This Trendy Accessory
Looking to step away from a hectic day job, Heather of Dearly Threaded purchased a commercial embroidery machine, set up an Etsy shop, and never looked back. Although the Dearly Threaded Etsy shop lists fun dad hats and swoon-worthy tote bags, the 29-year-old creative, who is getting married in June, wanted to come up with a ton of listing ideas for brides-to-be like her. This is when her bestselling custom denim jackets were born.
"I started embroidery professionally in 2017 to be able to quit my draining job," Heather told POPSUGAR. "My custom denim jackets quickly became my bestseller. They're a cute prop for the wedding and a special keepsake after, which I love."
Heather's shop lists several denim jackets with design variations, but her "Mrs." jackets in particular, which showcase the bride-to-be's future last name, have been what's kept her working overtime in her embroidery studio. The jackets have been featured in her customers' engagement and wedding photos, and the reviews on the listings are glowing.
When your wedding day has come and gone, and your stunning white dress has been hung up in the closet, one of these denim jackets can stay firmly in your wardrobe rotation and remind you of your special day every time you slip it on. So basically, NEED.
Check out all of the available styles below!
Why This Booze-Free Beverage Found a Home on My Bar Cart
Now that it's February, I figure it's time to stop procrastinating and get serious about my New Year's resolution: dry January (oops!).
Let me start by saying I didn't make it past day two of dry January - I love alcohol. But in the new year, I really do want to cut back on the booze for the sake of my skin, my tummy, and my wallet. I had heard about the booze-free beverage trend taking the form of mocktail lists at restaurants, but to me, a concoction of juices (especially without alcohol) is just wasted calories. Then, I heard about a "euphoric" beverage through the grapevine.
Kin Euphorics, according to its website, claims to "balance stress hormones and replenish neurotransmitters." No booze, no nasty hangover. As incredible as that sounds, I was skeptical, especially when the three main ingredients are big fancy words: nootropics, adaptogens, and botanics.
So, I got a bottle of Kin High Rhode and poured myself a Kin and tonic to see for myself.
What to Know
What are "euphorics" anyway? According to Kin's website, Euphorics are the brainchild of "ancient remedy" meets "modern alchemy." Those three big fancy words supposedly "work in harmony to uplift mood, enhance perception, and deepen connection." Kinda sounds like something you might find at a music festival to me.
Kin contains what it calls "mind-nourishing" nootropics, "body-balancing" adaptogens, and "replenishing" botanics. OK, but what the hell does that mean? You might have heard of nootropics referred to as "smart drugs." The blanket term can refer to anything from coffee to cocaine (Kin only has caffeine in it). The term was originally coined by psychologist and chemist Corneliu E. Giurgea, PhD, for compounds that enhance cognitive function. Our brains supposedly take Kin's nootropic ingredients - GABA, phenibut, citocoline, caffeine, 5-HTP, phenylalanine, and tyrosine - and convert them into neurotransmitters, aka the brain's messenger neurons, of which they are depleted after a long, hard day. 5-HTP is converted into serotonin, tyrosine into dopamine, and so on. Adaptogens date back thousands of years in Ayurveda (and more recently, Western science). Kin contains rhodiola rosea, which is believed to reduce stress and fatigue, among other benefits. Botanics are plants used for their supposed therapeutic properties. Kin contains hibiscus, gentian, orange peel, licorice, and white grape.
Kin does not contain alcohol. While Kin is a nonalcoholic beverage, it is not intended for those under 18. It is also free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and added sugars (note: Kin contains stevia).
One serving of Kin is two ounces with only eight calories and two grams of natural sugar. It is recommended that you do not exceed four servings of Kin in a 24-hour period. (Who is having four nonalcoholic beverages in one sitting? Spoiler alert: me . . . I do not recommend this.)
Kin promises short-term and long-term benefits other than no booze and no hangover, including the ability to (supposedly):
- Restore neurotransmitters.
- Replenish vitamins.
- Reduce stress and fatigue.
- Boost cognitive function.
Here's What Happened
Upon receiving my bottle of Kin High Rhode, I was provided with a recipe for a Kin and tonic and a word of advice: Kin is meant to be drank similar to vodka or tequila; while you can drink it straight, it is best mixed. That, of course, did not stop me.
How does it taste? Served straight, Kin tastes how you might expect a beverage infused with plants would: earthy with a dash of bitters. Take my word for it, it is not worth trying this way. However, served over ice with a splash of lime juice and topped with tonic water, it tastes like a light, hibiscus-infused gin and tonic - yum!
How does it make you feel? After one Kin and tonic, I did not feel much, or I didn't think I did. Kin's website suggests it takes 10-15 minutes to kick in and I liked the taste, so I was inclined to pour another. With the last sip of my second Kin and tonic, I felt a wave of stress wash away and my mood change. I had a burst of energy (hello, caffeine). I felt good. So good, I poured another (and then another). By number four, max serving capacity, I still had that elevated feeling, but things were starting to get alcohol-fuzzy. My bed was calling my name. Kin's website says "each subsequent serving sustains - not intensifies - our rise," but I got "drunk" off the booze-free beverage (granted, I had four). What I did not get was the slightest sign of a hangover come 8 a.m. It really is "all bliss, no booze."
Is Kin for you? Kin has found a permanent place on my bar cart. Since trying Kin, I have cut my alcohol consumption in half and I feel great. Kin is the perfect weekday companion after a long day at work. That being said, I still feel there's some things only a glass of wine (or three) can fix. Nonetheless, I would recommend Kin to those who drink and those who do not, as well as those who are just taking the day off.
Kin High Rhode ($47) is available for purchase online at Kin's official website.
Bookmark This List of Low-Carb Foods For Your Next Trip to the Grocery Store
It's so easy to get excited about starting a new eating plan, only to arrive at the grocery store and have your mind go . . . blank. That's why we've compiled the ultimate shopping list for those trying to cut carbs. While research shows that a low-carb diet is effective for weight loss - and can improve overall health - those benefits are only possible with the right foods. This list will allow you to mix and match your favorite proteins and vegetables and pair them with healthy fats and whole grains for a balanced meal every time. Grab your car keys and wallet, and let's get started.
My Spoon and I Are So Ready to Binge This Healthy Nutella Alternative
In a world where the myth of Nutella as a health food has sadly been debunked, those of us with chocolate nut butter addictions who don't want 21 grams of sugar per serving are left to get our fix elsewhere. And last month, we were celebrating when Bubble released the newest addition to our short healthy-Nutella-alternative list.
It's called Hella, and if early reviews and Instagram comments are anything to go by, it's pretty good. It's also impressively healthy: vegan, paleo, gluten-free, and with just 8 grams of sugar per serving. The butter's three ingredients - hazelnut, coconut sugar, and cacao - are all organic and, according to Bubble's website, sourced from sustainable farms in Italy, Indonesia, and Peru, respectively. The company ships it straight from its own facilities, too, meaning there are no preservatives added to prolong the shelf life.
Hella is Bubble's first in-house product; the website is also a marketplace for other food and lifestyle brands. After its release in January, it sold out in just one week. If you missed out, it's now restocked and available to buy ($9) from Bubble's website. Pass me my nut butter spoon, please.
How 50 Members of Bachelor Nation Keep Their Health in Check
Scrolling through the Instagrams of your favorite Bachelors and Bachelorettes will tell you a few things - they're all ridiculously attractive, they all post a lot of well-styled sponsored photos, and they all keep in damn good shape. Favorites like Nick Viall, Jesse Palmer, and Lauren Bushnell are all up in the fitness game, along with dozens of other Bachelor and Bachelorette alums.
For some fitness inspiration to pair with your viewing of the next installment of The Bachelor, scroll through to see how all these guys and gals stay in such good shape. It involves a whole lot of skiing, some yoga, and carefully designed workouts by those TV stars who double as personal trainers. So multitalented!
Tone and Strengthen Your Muscles With This Professional Ballerina's At-Home Total-Body Workout
Ballerinas are known for their impressive poise and strength. If you've ever wanted to fulfill your dream of becoming a ballerina, or you want to challenge yourself to something new, now's your chance.
New York City Ballet principal dancer Tiler Peck created this full-body workout to teach you a few ballet basics and sculpt your muscles. Be sure to wear something you can move freely in (Tiler has her own line of leotards if you really want to feel legit), and get ready to train like the pros.
You Won't Be Able to Stop Scrolling Through These 50-Pound Weight-Loss Transformations
If you have at least 50 pounds to lose, find motivation to stay on the fit and healthy path by seeing these women's before-and-after photos. They've each lost 50 pounds and feel amazing! Bookmark this page for when you feel like giving up. These women put in the work and it was worth it - always a good reminder to help you keep going.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
The Unexpected Tool That Kept Me Calm During the Most Stressful Times of My Life
Between facing a job loss, becoming self-employed, and learning a lot more about myself than I could have ever imagined, let's just say last year was one for the books. I searched high and low for ways to calm my anxieties and stay focused on the positive, but nothing seemed to work. I tried every standard remedy, and yet what ultimately brought me some peace of mind wasn't meditation or CBD, but essential oils.
I was about two months into working as a full-time freelancer - and having a hard time adjusting to life without a 9-to-5 - when a friend mentioned how much she loved her essential oil diffuser. I had tried and tested essential oils during my days as a beauty editor, and while I was curious about their healing properties, I never really knew what to do with them. That didn't stop me from being intrigued by a diffuser, especially since my friend told me that the scents and steam helped her feel calmer. I figured, if nothing else had worked to help me find my Zen, it couldn't hurt to try it.
I did some research on essential oil diffusers, which helped me create a wish list: anything I purchased would need to mist for several hours, and it couldn't be noisy or distribute heat throughout the room. I ultimately settled on a diffuser from Saje Natural Wellness because it checked all the boxes and the brand also offered plenty of essential oils, including lavender, eucalyptus, and lemongrass.
Related: I Absolutely Suck at Sleeping, and This Is What Finally Helped Me Rest
For those of you who are unfamiliar with how these diffusers work, here's a bit of a breakdown. You fill a small compartment of the diffuser with water, then add your essential oils. It's advised that you add around 10 to 15 drops of oil into the water, depending on how intense you'd like the aroma. You then turn on the diffuser to activate the steam, and within a few minutes, you'll notice the scent and steam begin to fill the room. Essential oil diffusers typically don't use heat, so you're getting the oils in a very pure form.
The first time I tried the diffuser, I opted for lavender, since it's known to help reduce stress. I'd be lying if I said my anxieties melted away the moment I let some oils stream into the air, but I did find that I was able to get my work done at a better pace. It felt good to make self-care more of a priority, and although the scent wasn't my favorite, I knew I wanted to try the diffuser again.
This isn't to say that the essential oils have removed those feelings entirely - that's just not how anxiety works - but they have helped me cope better than other methods I've tried.
I set it out for about two hours the next night, this time using eucalyptus oil, which is also supposed to help promote a sense of calmness. It was a game changer. The eucalyptus made me feel more relaxed than the lavender but also more productive, and it eased a lot of the tension I had been feeling, which is exactly what I needed to stay on track with my work. This time, with my mind quieter, I also found the sound of the steam to be very soothing.
I used the diffuser three times a week throughout the next month and noticed that I didn't feel my usual sense of worry as frequently as I had before. This isn't to say that the essential oils have removed those feelings entirely - that's just not how anxiety works - but they have helped me cope better than other methods I've tried, like cutting caffeine or going for a walk. I'm hopeful that it'll be even more relaxing soon, as I plan to add some deep-breathing exercises to my routine. If you're ready to give an essential oil diffuser a try, keep reading for some options that caught my eye, including my personal favorite.
Related: This 1 Thing Eased My Anxiety Almost Immediately, and I Never Would Have Guessed
11 Pairs of Leggings That Prove Black Isn't the Only Color That Hides Sweat
Sweat might be the sign of an effective workout, but that doesn't mean you have to wear the proof on your leggings. Leaving the gym with a ring of sweat around your butt isn't exactly a look we love.
Sure, opting for basic black leggings does the trick, but what about when you want to add a little more pizzazz to your athleisure look? That's where these sweat-proof leggings come in. Made in smart cuts from moisture-wicking fabrics, these pairs actually encourage perspiration to evaporate as soon as it forms. See ya never, sweat stains!
Get a Stronger, Sculpted Core With This Intense 4-Move Ab Workout
The next time you aren't sure what to do for stronger abs, pull out this four-move workout. It's quick, it's intense, and you can do it absolutely anywhere. You're going to be putting in work, as every core muscle from your transverse abdominis muscles to your obliques gets lit up. Not to mention, it's guaranteed to leave you sore for a few days.
It can be done alone or you can add it to your favorite workout. As a reminder, if more defined abs are what you're after, you've got to eat clean, strength train, and focus on strengthening your core.
The Quick and Intense Ab Workout
Directions: Perform this workout as a circuit, taking little to no rest in between each exercise. Take one to two minutes of rest in between each round, completing a total of four rounds.
- High knees: 30 reps
- Mountain climbers: 30 reps
- Side plank leg lift: 10 reps on each side
- Seated knee tuck: 15 reps
I Screamed at My Local Trader Joe's When I Found Vegan Queso - but Is It Any Good?!
I gave up dairy in the beginning of college, and except for a few years during my two pregnancies where I ate it to get more protein in my vegetarian diet, dairy hasn't really been part of my life. And that means neither has queso. Until now. Trader Joe's now has Cashew Fiesta Dip. As a plant-based eater, it was my duty to buy some; I had to report on whether or not it was actually good. I prayed to the vegan gods that it was.
I'm a Black Woman, and This Is How Working Out Has Made Me Love My Body
I was 8 years old the first time I noticed my body looked different than my friends. I had defined arms, legs, and abs and they didn't. As I began to get more involved in sports - dance, track, and soccer were my favorites - I really began to notice that my brown body stood out. I was never ashamed of how I looked, I just knew I was different.
Fortunately, I had coaches that didn't just teach me the fundamentals of sport. Whether they realized it or not, they shaped the way I perceived myself. They taught me how to fight through hard workouts, how to become mentally strong, and how to visualize my goals and dreams, and they also taught my teammates and me that our bodies were made for a special purpose. That our brown, strong physiques weren't anything to be ashamed of. In fact, it was just the opposite. We were taught that our bodies were an extension of who we were: strong, powerful, and beautiful.
I'll never forget asking my track coach Lucius about the then-mysterious marks that had begun to appear on my butt, thighs, and calves. My teammate and I were panicking because these marks were so foreign to us. It was then Lucius explained what stretch marks were. He also told us that they represented power and strength - part of the formula to become a great sprinter.
When I was on the track, running up and down the soccer field, or at dance recitals, I felt strong. But when I wasn't competing, there were moments where I felt uncomfortable with how I looked. Around that same time, my dad began expanding my knowledge of professional black female athletes. Once I saw images of Serena and Venus Williams competing and photos of Florence Griffith Joyner running, I was in awe. I wanted to emulate them. I wanted to be just as strong and as powerful as they were.
Over the years, I was offered scholarships to compete in college, I became a Division 1, All-American sprinter, and I've worked with top athletic brands. These are major accolades to be proud of, but I'm simply proud to have a platform where I can be my authentic self - where my body and my strength are embraced. I'm so happy that there are so many strong black female athletes, and black women in general, for young girls and women to look up to.
I'm so thankful that girls can look to athletes of the past and present like Laila Ali, Misty Copeland, and Simone Biles and feel represented and be proud of who they are and how they look.
So to all the black female athletes out there, thank you for helping me love every inch of my body.
Fitness Fanatics Can't Get Enough of These 18 Leggings, and You'll See Why
There's nothing quite as motivating as new workout clothes to help get your butt moving. When you feel confident, you can take on any challenge your gym routine might throw at you. The cornerstone of any active person's workout wardrobe? A great pair of leggings. We've scoured the internet and found 18 pairs we'd be thrilled to own. Now, to the gym!
Want to Lose Weight? Try This Celebrity Trainer's Simple, 4-Week Walking Plan
When it comes to weight loss, celeb trainer and New York Times bestselling author Harley Pasternak, MSc, has a catchphrase: "Strong in the gym, lean in life." The Fitbit ambassador, nutrition scientist, and personal coach to the likes of Amy Schumer, Kim Kardashian, and Rihanna has told POPSUGAR on numerous occasions that the best way to lose weight is easier than you think: just walk more. Here, Harley makes his compelling case and shares a simple, month-long plan to get you started.
Why Walking and Not Running?
"Walking is something that can be woven into the fabric of the day," Harley said. "With running, you need to book a time to do it; you need to dress a certain way, wear specific shoes, be in a specific mindset, have time to shower after and re-dress - you don't have to do that with walking."
Additionally, he told us that there's a "direct correlation" between intensity of cardio and appetite, meaning the more strenuous cardio you do, the hangrier you'll be afterward. "It's why we use the phrase 'working up an appetite,'" he said. So if weight loss is your goal, walking will be your way to lean out in 2019.
The Plan
Harley believes in this approach so much that getting a step tracker is part of his prescribed regimen to his celebrity clients. While adding in steps here and there will certainly add up over time, we asked him for a four-week plan, giving us a target to work with.
"This plan starts off assuming your current step count is 10,000 steps per day," Harley told POPSUGAR. The goal is that by the end of week four, you're walking an additional 4,000 steps per day.
- Week one: 11,000 steps each day, Sunday through Saturday
- Week two: 12,000 steps each day, Sunday through Saturday
- Week three: 13,000 steps each day, Sunday through Saturday
- Week four: 14,000 steps each day, Sunday through Saturday
Harley acknowledged that "jumping 1,000 steps per day each week can be daunting" and that not everyone is starting at 10,000 steps each day. If you're hovering somewhere closer to 5,000 steps daily, the goal is the same. Add 1,000 steps per day for week one, another 1,000 for week two, and so on until your new daily average is 4,000 steps above your start point.
"For those that are starting at a lower step count, don't stop at the end of week four," he said. "The optimum range of steps is different for everyone, but I haven't met anyone who hasn't been able to physically keep up with 14,000 steps per day unless they have an underlying medical condition."
The goal is the same: "Get to a place where you hit a daily step goal that you can sustain without leading to mental and physical burnout." Sound good? Great. Let's do this.
20 Pairs of Patterned Leggings For When Plain Black Just Won't Do
No shade to your closet full of black leggings, but sometimes you need something with a little pizzazz. Whether you are running to a workout class or just want to look like you are, a pair of patterned leggings is just the thing. Throw on one of the best sports bras and a pair of trendy sneakers, and you've got the ultimate athleisure outfit. With price tags ranging from $9 to $150, there's something on this list for every style and budget.
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