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.
samedi 25 avril 2020
Could That Sore Throat Be a Sign of COVID-19? It's Possible, Though Fairly Uncommon
A mildly sore throat may not have been cause for concern before the COVID-19 pandemic, but with everyone carefully watching for signs that they could be carrying the virus, it's only natural that it would raise a red flag now. Though fever, cough, and shortness of breath were the earliest reported hallmarks of the virus, the Centers For Disease Control has expanded its list to include a wide range of symptoms, including sore throat.
Though there are no definitive clinical studies on the novel coronavirus (because that's simply not possible yet), the New England Journal of Medicine's collection of data includes a number of examples in which patients experienced a sore throat. A report from South Korea showed that some patients in that area reported a sore throat with COVID-19. A patient observed in Taiwan developed a sore throat on the fifth day of symptoms, and a 33-year-old businessman in Germany also counted a sore throat among his symptoms.
But while there's evidence that a sore throat could be an early sign of the disease, "approximately only 10 percent of patients with COVID-19 experience a sore throat, making this a rare symptom compared to other more prevalent findings in symptomatic patients, including fever, dry cough and shortness of breath," Omid Mehdizadeh, MD, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told POPSUGAR.
He recommends keeping an eye out for other symptoms in addition to a sore throat, including "runny nose, loss of smell and taste, body aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea." While you're monitoring the sore throat, you can use throat lozenges and acetaminophen to ease the discomfort, Dr. Mehdizadeh explained - and you should stay hydrated, too. Also, "continue to practice COVID-19 precautions, including hand washing, avoiding touching your face, and social distancing," he said.
Because the severity of symptoms varies from person to person, it's important to consult your healthcare provider if you're concerned you may have COVID-19. Dr. Mehdizadeh advises calling ASAP if you experience any of these symptoms, specifically: "fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, worsening pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, neck swelling, blood in the saliva, tightness of the jaw, or prolonged throat pain lasting more than five days."
POPSUGAR aims to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about the coronavirus, but details and recommendations about this pandemic may have changed since publication. For the latest information on COVID-19, please check out resources from the WHO, CDC, and local public health departments.
5 Ways to Give Yourself the Love You Deserve During Social Distancing
However social distancing during this time looks for you, we can all agree it's taking a huge toll on us. We're learning to navigate new routines and habits and creating a temporary normal, which can become mentally exhausting and bring on a lot of feelings we're not used to dealing with.
While the future can seem uncertain at this time and any feelings we may have toward it are more than valid, it's in our power to make this unprecedented situation as easy on ourselves as possible.
We can start small. Getting out of bed, showering, getting dressed, and maintaining our social and family life virtually are simple steps that can do so much for our mental state. Repeating words of affirmation also helps, as well as staying away from the overwhelming news cycle.
Once we've conquered those little steps, it's time to invest some extra time into reminding ourselves how much we love ourselves. No, it's not selfish to think about ourselves during a time like this - in fact, it can help this new, temporary reality feel a little easier.
So, keep reading to find out ways to enjoy that little extra love from you to you.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge Wants You to "Go to Bed" With Fleabag: "It's For Charity!"
Fleabag fans, rejoice! While we're still devastated that there will never be a third season of this heartbreakingly hilarious comedy, the show is returning to Amazon in a slightly unexpected way. A September 2019 recording of Phoebe Waller-Bridge's one-woman stage show that inspired the series is available for download in the US now through May 31. So we'll finally get a glimpse at where all the guinea-pig-filled drama and witty sex jokes began.
The performance was filmed at Wyndham's Theatre in London's West End during Fleabag's revival tour, and all proceeds from the $5 downloads of the performance will go to artists and healthcare workers in the UK. It's currently available for download in the UK and Ireland, and fans in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada will also be able to stream the performance soon.
"Now go get into bed with Fleabag! It's for charity!"
"I hope this filmed performance of Fleabag can help raise money while providing a little theatrical entertainment in these isolated times," Waller-Bridge said in a press release. "Thank you to all our partners and to the creative team who have waived their royalties from this production to raise money for such vital causes in this unbelievably challenging situation. All money raised will support the people throughout our society who are fighting for us on the frontlines and those financially devastated by the crisis, including those in the theatre community."
Watch to the end for a holy surprise. 🎁 #FleabagForCharity is sharing the original stage play for rent on Prime Video. All proceeds go to charities supporting those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/nzIjGSyGVd
- Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) April 7, 2020
The proceeds from downloads of the stage performance, available on Soho Theatre On Demand and Amazon Prime Video, will be distributed in four parts. The National Emergencies Trust (NET) Coronavirus Appeal will receive 35 percent of each donation to fund local charities across the UK, including food banks and those impacted by coronavirus. NHS Charities Together will also receive 35 percent of each donation to support National Health Services staff and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients.
Additionally, 15 percent of each donation will go to Acting For Others, a charity that supports theater workers in the UK who have suffered financially due to the closure of galleries, cinemas, and museums. The final 15 percent of each donation will go to the Fleabag Support Fund, which will distribute grants of £2,500 to freelance workers in the theater industry who are in urgent financial need as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The performance has already raised over $1 million since April 6, according to a press release. "Thank you in advance to those who donate," Waller-Bridge added. "Now go get into bed with Fleabag! It's for charity!"
Could That Sore Throat Be a Sign of COVID-19? It's Possible, Though Fairly Uncommon
A mildly sore throat may not have been cause for concern before the COVID-19 pandemic, but with everyone carefully watching for signs that they could be carrying the virus, it's only natural that it would raise a red flag now. Though fever, cough, and shortness of breath were the earliest reported hallmarks of the virus, the Centers For Disease Control has expanded its list to include a wide range of symptoms, including sore throat.
Though there are no definitive clinical studies on the novel coronavirus (because that's simply not possible yet), the New England Journal of Medicine's collection of data includes a number of examples in which patients experienced a sore throat. A report from South Korea showed that some patients in that area reported a sore throat with COVID-19. A patient observed in Taiwan developed a sore throat on the fifth day of symptoms, and a 33-year-old businessman in Germany also counted a sore throat among his symptoms.
But while there's evidence that a sore throat could be an early sign of the disease, "approximately only 10 percent of patients with COVID-19 experience a sore throat, making this a rare symptom compared to other more prevalent findings in symptomatic patients, including fever, dry cough and shortness of breath," Omid Mehdizadeh, MD, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told POPSUGAR.
He recommends keeping an eye out for other symptoms in addition to a sore throat, including "runny nose, loss of smell and taste, body aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea." While you're monitoring the sore throat, you can use throat lozenges and acetaminophen to ease the discomfort, Dr. Mehdizadeh explained - and you should stay hydrated, too. Also, "continue to practice COVID-19 precautions, including hand washing, avoiding touching your face, and social distancing," he said.
Because the severity of symptoms varies from person to person, it's important to consult your healthcare provider if you're concerned you may have COVID-19. Dr. Mehdizadeh advises calling ASAP if you experience any of these symptoms, specifically: "fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, worsening pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, neck swelling, blood in the saliva, tightness of the jaw, or prolonged throat pain lasting more than five days."
POPSUGAR aims to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about the coronavirus, but details and recommendations about this pandemic may have changed since publication. For the latest information on COVID-19, please check out resources from the WHO, CDC, and local public health departments.
Watch This Woman Hilariously Explain How Families Are Coping With Homeschooling Right Now
Having your kids at home 24/7 leaves a lot of time for making happy memories while recreating Disney rides or running a DIY nail salon. But when it comes to homeschooling, it's not always as fun. In a post on her Instagram account, social media star Adley Stump shared a video of herself answering questions at a spoof press conference about the coronavirus outbreak. In the middle of the video, Adley draws attention to the struggle many parents are facing as they do their best to homeschool their children. "If you are home educating, you may start drinking at approximately 10 a.m. every day," Adley says in the video, and it's too relatable. "Baking cakes can be considered math, science, or art," she adds.
The spoof primarily highlights the contradictory information presented by the media surrounding best practices for preventing COVID-19 and how to take care of ourselves and others during this time. "Here's what we should all be doing [right] now!" Adley captioned the video. "Also, I am NOT the original writer of this material!!!" she added. "I saw it (like many of you) in a few memes and adapted it for video." Watch the full skit here and find out how else to keep your children entertained while learning here.
5 Ways to Give Yourself the Love You Deserve During Social Distancing
However social distancing during this time looks for you, we can all agree it's taking a huge toll on us. We're learning to navigate new routines and habits and creating a temporary normal, which can become mentally exhausting and bring on a lot of feelings we're not used to dealing with.
While the future can seem uncertain at this time and any feelings we may have toward it are more than valid, it's in our power to make this unprecedented situation as easy on ourselves as possible.
We can start small. Getting out of bed, showering, getting dressed, and maintaining our social and family life virtually are simple steps that can do so much for our mental state. Repeating words of affirmation also helps, as well as staying away from the overwhelming news cycle.
Once we've conquered those little steps, it's time to invest some extra time into reminding ourselves how much we love ourselves. No, it's not selfish to think about ourselves during a time like this - in fact, it can help this new, temporary reality feel a little easier.
So, keep reading to find out ways to enjoy that little extra love from you to you.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge Wants You to "Go to Bed" With Fleabag: "It's For Charity!"
Fleabag fans, rejoice! While we're still devastated that there will never be a third season of this heartbreakingly hilarious comedy, the show is returning to Amazon in a slightly unexpected way. A September 2019 recording of Phoebe Waller-Bridge's one-woman stage show that inspired the series is available for download in the US now through May 31. So we'll finally get a glimpse at where all the guinea-pig-filled drama and witty sex jokes began.
The performance was filmed at Wyndham's Theatre in London's West End during Fleabag's revival tour, and all proceeds from the $5 downloads of the performance will go to artists and healthcare workers in the UK. It's currently available for download in the UK and Ireland, and fans in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada will also be able to stream the performance soon.
"Now go get into bed with Fleabag! It's for charity!"
"I hope this filmed performance of Fleabag can help raise money while providing a little theatrical entertainment in these isolated times," Waller-Bridge said in a press release. "Thank you to all our partners and to the creative team who have waived their royalties from this production to raise money for such vital causes in this unbelievably challenging situation. All money raised will support the people throughout our society who are fighting for us on the frontlines and those financially devastated by the crisis, including those in the theatre community."
Watch to the end for a holy surprise. 🎁 #FleabagForCharity is sharing the original stage play for rent on Prime Video. All proceeds go to charities supporting those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/nzIjGSyGVd
- Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) April 7, 2020
The proceeds from downloads of the stage performance, available on Soho Theatre On Demand and Amazon Prime Video, will be distributed in four parts. The National Emergencies Trust (NET) Coronavirus Appeal will receive 35 percent of each donation to fund local charities across the UK, including food banks and those impacted by coronavirus. NHS Charities Together will also receive 35 percent of each donation to support National Health Services staff and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients.
Additionally, 15 percent of each donation will go to Acting For Others, a charity that supports theater workers in the UK who have suffered financially due to the closure of galleries, cinemas, and museums. The final 15 percent of each donation will go to the Fleabag Support Fund, which will distribute grants of £2,500 to freelance workers in the theater industry who are in urgent financial need as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The performance has already raised over $1 million since April 6, according to a press release. "Thank you in advance to those who donate," Waller-Bridge added. "Now go get into bed with Fleabag! It's for charity!"
13 Personalized Gifts Perfect For Mother's Day
This Mother's Day, we want to show our moms how much we love and care about them. Since not all of us will be with our moms this holiday, we want to send a gift that's thoughtful and sincere. The best way to show your mom that you didn't wait until the last minute is to get her something personalized. Whether you feel like picking up a pretty necklace or a cozy robe, these 12 gifts will definitely put a smile on her face.
We found a floral mug she'll want to drink everything out of, and a heart pendant that definitely shows you care. Plus, if she's into astrology, there's a cool star chart that she'll be so impressed with. Send mom some extra love this season with any one of these great gifts.
13 Personalized Gifts Perfect For Mother's Day
This Mother's Day, we want to show our moms how much we love and care about them. Since not all of us will be with our moms this holiday, we want to send a gift that's thoughtful and sincere. The best way to show your mom that you didn't wait until the last minute is to get her something personalized. Whether you feel like picking up a pretty necklace or a cozy robe, these 12 gifts will definitely put a smile on her face.
We found a floral mug she'll want to drink everything out of, and a heart pendant that definitely shows you care. Plus, if she's into astrology, there's a cool star chart that she'll be so impressed with. Send mom some extra love this season with any one of these great gifts.
vendredi 24 avril 2020
68 Books and Series to Read While Social Distancing From Home, Recommended by Avid Readers
If you're struggling to stay motivated to read right now, join the club! In these stressful, uncertain times, it can be difficult to find the focus and mental headspace for a book - even when it's something you'd normally devour. In fact, thriller author Andrea Bartz addressed this in a live Q&A she did in our POPSUGAR Book Club group on Facebook, telling us, "It's a very anxious and scary time for everyone; it makes perfect sense that you're having trouble reading. You are not alone, and there's nothing wrong with you." She suggested reading a genre you don't normally read, rereading an old favorite, reading something like a short YA novel or graphic novel, or even just trying audiobooks.
To help you get out of a reading rut and maybe even find a new favorite while you're spending more time at home, we reached out to our POPSUGAR Book Club members (join us!) to find out which books they've enjoyed the most while social distancing. While some readers wanted to lose themselves in a "fluffy romance," others "needed to fully lean in with a pandemic dark comedy." Some completely shifted their reading preferences from stressful thrillers to feel-good books with happy endings, and others found comfort in traveling to a new place via the pages of a novel or visiting old friends with a beloved reread.
So what books are these avid readers recommending? Well, there's a buzzy new release described as "Steel Magnolias meets Dracula" that many of our book clubbers raved about, a Queer Eye star's memoir with a message of hope, a true crime audiobook that'll keep you on the edge of your seat, a new Marie Kondo book with practical advice, and even a middle grade murder mystery set on the moon. Keep reading for all the book inspiration you need right now!
If Your Cat Constantly Meows, Here's What You Need to Do to Get Them to Stop
If your cat is a chronic meower - we're talking long, loud, and irritating meows, not cute little kitten chirps - they could be trying to tell you something, or they may just be seeking attention from you. Either way, having a screaming kitty isn't exactly ideal. If your cat is of the vocal variety and this behavior is one you're looking to put an end to, keep reading to learn what could be going on with your fur baby and how to proceed.
What to Consider If Your Cat Won't Stop Meowing
First and foremost, make sure your cat has food, water, and a clean litter box. They could simply be communicating to you that they want something to be done about one of those basic things. If the meowing is a new issue and your cat seems less chatty and more irritated, consider a trip to the vet. When cats are vocal, they are usually trying to communicate something to us. In this case, the reason could be that they aren't feeling right, so check with your vet to make sure they're healthy.
However, if you're pretty sure the answer is none of the above, then they're likely just trying to get you to fuss over them, and there are a few things you can do to get them to stop being so chatty.
How to Get Your Cat to Stop Meowing
First, figure out when your cat is not meowing, and if there's a pattern. Is it a certain time of day or during a certain activity? If you pay attention to them, do they continue to meow? When do they start up again? Then, try to find a way to continue whatever activity stops the meowing (for example, if your kitty usually meows right after you stop playing with them, get some new games for them to amuse themselves with - they probably want to keep playing!).
Many times, cats are meowing purely for attention, exactly at a time when we can't pay full attention to them. You could definitely try to ignore them while they're being particularly chatty, but they probably won't stop immediately. That can obviously be very frustrating and makes it hard not to pay attention to them, so you'll likely end up giving in to whatever it seems they want, thus continuing a behavior cycle.
You need to try to break the cycle! If your cat (or any pet) gets a response from you by doing something like meowing or scratching, they will simply repeat that action again and again to continue getting a response. The first rule of thumb is to avoid directly responding to your cat's meowing, whether it be petting them, shushing them, or something else - any reaction counts, even if it isn't a positive one. If your cat continues to meow, try a time out. Shut the door to the room you are in, and when they stop meowing they can come out to play. If they meow again, back outside the door they go. Eventually, a new behavior chain will form for them, and they'll realize that meowing gets them shut out of the room. More than anything else, this will take time and patience, but it's definitely possible to achieve (even with a mischievous kitty).
Your Kids Will Love Zoom Chatting Using These Disney Channel Show Backgrounds
Next time your kids are on a Zoom call with their friends or family members (or they're feeling a little cheeky during a virtual homeschool lesson), Disney wants to help them perk up their video chat with the help of a few downloadable Zoom backgrounds featuring their favorite characters from Disney Junior and Disney Channel shows. From a Doc McStuffins theme to one featuring the Puppy Dog Pals, there are a bunch of backgrounds to choose from that will completely transform their look on the call.
To use the backgrounds on Zoom, right click the below images that you want to save in order to download them to your computer (or hold it down with your finger to save it on your phone!), then follow these instructions to upload them to your Zoom account. Keep scrolling to see and download all of the Disney Junior and Disney Channel backgrounds your kids can use during their next Zoom call.
Kelly Clarkson's Cover of H.E.R.'s "Focus" Is So Soothing, We'll Be Playing It on Repeat All Day
Kelly Clarkson just proved you don't need to be on a stage or in a studio to completely slay a cover for Kellyoke. The TV host, who has been bringing viewers some truly great content from home over the past few weeks, got the gang (virtually) together for a rendition of H.E.R.'s soulful "Focus." Not only is it a beautiful cover, but some of the lyrics are especially pertinent right now, as we're all stuck on our phones . . . in our zones. It's a timely reminder to look up and pay attention to those around us, when they might need it most.
Check out Kelly's version above, and H.E.R.'s video below.
Why You Should Take Symptoms of COVID-19 Seriously, Even If You're Not Running a Fever
If you've read much about COVID-19, you know that fever, cough, and shortness of breath are hallmarks of the disease. But while many people will run a fever - for as long as a week or more - it's possible to contract the virus and never see a spike in your temperature.
"You can definitely have COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, without fever," David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told POPSUGAR. In fact, many people who are infected experience no symptoms at all, while many others have only mild symptoms, which may or may not include a fever.
Natasha Bhuyan, MD, a family practitioner and regional medical director of One Medical, explained that most patients do run a fever, but it's hard to nail down an accurate statistic. "Research of laboratory confirmed cases shows that 88 percent of patients with COVID-19 have a fever; however, that number might not be accurate," Dr. Bhuyan said. "We know there are many mild cases of COVID-19 that are never confirmed with testing, since the person may not seek medical care and recover on their own. As a result, the number of people with COVID-19 who have a fever might be lower than 88 percent."
While it's unclear why some people never run a fever - or develop one later in the course of the virus - it's important to recognize that you can be infected and even contagious without it. If you're experiencing other symptoms of COVID-19, call your doctor, who can help you determine your next steps and serve as a resource as you recover.
Remember, even if you have no symptoms, you should continue to follow best practices like social distancing and wearing a cloth mask in public. Those who are asymptomatic can unknowingly contribute to the spread of the virus. "This is one reason the disease travels so fast and so far," Dr. Cutler said.
In Case You Forgot, Here's a Refresher on John Krasinski's Fate in A Quiet Place
Beacon of light John Krasinski is now the host of his homemade YouTube channel Some Good News. Before SGN, the beloved actor was set to release A Quiet Place Part II, the follow-up to his film where his character Lee Abbott faced very bad news. Need a refresher on Lee's unfortunate fate? We've got you covered - just be wary of making any sudden noise or movement.
First, let's revisit the premise of the story. Uncannily enough, A Quiet Place begins around the year 2020, when alien monsters wipe out most of humanity by attacking anything that makes noises. Adopting a survivalist lifestyle, Lee and his wife Evelyn (Emily Blunt) live on a farm with their two children, Regan (Millicent Simmonds) and Marcus (Noah Jupe). Regan is deaf and blames herself for her brother Beau's death, as she handed him the loud toy that caused a monster to kill him. This becomes a source of tension between her and Lee. Still, it's clear that Lee still loves her, as he spends his time trying to perfect a hearing aid for her.
Anyway, the end really begins with Evelyn giving birth to another child. As Lee helps his wife, the children hide in a corn silo, where one of the creatures approach them. Regan figures out that the monster hates the high-frequency feedback sound made by her cochlear implant when it approaches her. Though they reunite with their father, the monster attacks Lee. While he and Regan take refuge in an old truck, Marcus shouts out for his dad, which temporarily reroutes the creature. But their father isn't done yet. Dropping his ax, Lee signs to Regan that he loves her, then lets out a scream to direct the monster toward him and save his kids. The creature kills Lee right there and then - cue all of the not-so-quiet sobbing.
Back at their house, Regan cranks up the feedback sound made by her implant with a microphone. This weakens the monster, which lets Evelyn kill it with a shotgun. While we'll see him in flashbacks, it's not likely that Lee is still alive in the sequel. But we'll be looking forward to Krasinski's return as the director - and maybe even as an alien.
8 Cute and Cozy Slippers That Are About to Become Your New Best Friends
Right now, we're all staying put at home and doing our part to flatten the curve, and that means we're grabbing our slippers and not letting go. I never really understood the appeal of slippers, since I generally prefer to be barefoot around the house, but now that I'm working from home, my UGG slippers have become my best friends and trusted allies. If you want to keep your toes nice and warm, these eight pairs of slippers are as good as it gets.
From faux fur, to cashmere, to shearling, these picks will keep your feet warm and toasty. Plus, there's a pair of heated slippers calling your name. No matter where you're spending time right now, having a pair of slippers is a really good idea. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
22 Reasons The Great British Baking Show Is the Only Thing I'll Watch When I'm Stressed
I can still remember following my mom around the kitchen of our tiny apartment when I was a kid, often covered in chocolate and still too short to see over the counter top as I watched her mix a batch of fresh chocolate chip cookies. She taught me to bake at a young age, and my memories with her probably play a big part in why I still love baking so much today. With so much time to kill as I continue to social distance to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I've been baking up a storm: a loaf of banana bread, a homemade lemon cake, a batch of snickerdoodles, coconut cheesecake, and more. For me, baking just warms the soul.
While I still haven't nailed the "precision" part of baking ("It's like science!" - my mom), my bakes still turn out pretty well. Sometimes, though, I just need to unwind in a different way - which is where Netflix comes in, specifically the only cooking show I have ever deemed truly wholesome: The Great British Baking Show. Some cooking competitions, from Chopped to Masterchef Junior, involve an overwhelming (but entertaining) experience filled with yelling, swearing, crying, and harsh criticism. But The Great British Baking Show strips away the bells and whistles that are meant to make traditional cooking competitions enticing. Instead, it combines all the best elements of a baking show and adds a pinch of British charm, cooking up a fun and heartwarming series worth adding to your Netflix queue.
For anyone who hasn't had the chance to watch Mary Berry savor a rum-spiked chantilly cream, the show follows 12 home bakers of varying skill levels as they compete week after week in three challenges (the signature bake, the technical challenge, and the show-stopper challenge) to determine who will be Star Baker and who will go home. As much as it's a competition, it's also a show about creativity, friendship, bad jokes, and heartwarming moments between people who love cake. So, really, who can't relate? (I know I can.) Here are some of the reasons this show holds such a special place in my heart and helps me wind down now, when I need it most.
Why You Should Take Symptoms of COVID-19 Seriously, Even If You're Not Running a Fever
If you've read much about COVID-19, you know that fever, cough, and shortness of breath are hallmarks of the disease. But while many people will run a fever - for as long as a week or more - it's possible to contract the virus and never see a spike in your temperature.
"You can definitely have COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, without fever," David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told POPSUGAR. In fact, many people who are infected experience no symptoms at all, while many others have only mild symptoms, which may or may not include a fever.
Natasha Bhuyan, MD, a family practitioner and regional medical director of One Medical, explained that most patients do run a fever, but it's hard to nail down an accurate statistic. "Research of laboratory confirmed cases shows that 88 percent of patients with COVID-19 have a fever; however, that number might not be accurate," Dr. Bhuyan said. "We know there are many mild cases of COVID-19 that are never confirmed with testing, since the person may not seek medical care and recover on their own. As a result, the number of people with COVID-19 who have a fever might be lower than 88 percent."
While it's unclear why some people never run a fever - or develop one later in the course of the virus - it's important to recognize that you can be infected and even contagious without it. If you're experiencing other symptoms of COVID-19, call your doctor, who can help you determine your next steps and serve as a resource as you recover.
Remember, even if you have no symptoms, you should continue to follow best practices like social distancing and wearing a cloth mask in public. Those who are asymptomatic can unknowingly contribute to the spread of the virus. "This is one reason the disease travels so fast and so far," Dr. Cutler said.
Nick Jonas Narrated a Sleep Story on Audible, and We Have No Desire to Get Out of Bed
Your restless nights may just come to a halt thanks to Nick Jonas's new (and free!) 37-minute sleep story on Audible. (If you aren't familiar with sleep stories, they're recordings created to help you relax and calm your mind so that you can sleep better.) If you've been tossing, turning, and waking up in the middle of the night, "The Perfect Swing" will help ease your mind and have you drifting off into a deep sleep.
According to Audible, there's no true start, beginning, or ending of the story, and you may never find out what it takes to have the perfect swing in baseball - because the main goal is for you to sleep better than you have in a long time. If you're in need of rest and a Nick Jonas fan, we definitely recommend adding this sleep story to your nighttime routine.
40 Retailers Selling (and Donating) Face Masks During the Coronavirus Pandemic
The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) has advised all Americans to wear cloth face masks while out in public to help minimize the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). These precautions were put in place to prevent the spread of the virus by those who are infected with it and are asymptomatic. The CDC advised wearing a cloth face covering when you're out in public places, like grocery stores and pharmacies, where the social distancing guidelines are harder to follow. For many before the pandemic, face masks were not a part of their at-home collection. Luckily, a selection of retailers have now made protective face coverings available for purchase. For those who do not have masks already or prefer not to make a DIY face mask, buying one is an easy alternative.
In order to properly wear a face mask, it must fit closely against the face, be secured with ties or ear loops, include more than one layer of fabric, allow for breathing, and be able to be washed without getting damaged. It's worth noting that while these cloth face coverings are not medical grade masks like the N95 respirators and surgical masks, which are being reserved for healthcare workers, they are still useful to put on when out in public. Wearing a cloth mask will not ensure protection against ingesting droplets, but it's a precautionary safety measure worth taking.
Ahead is a curated list of face masks that are available to buy online, including companies and brands that are doing their part by donating proceeds and masks to charities and hospitals to help those working against the virus. If you don't already have a mask or need another one for yourself or a loved one, shop these picks now and help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
My Late Abuelo and My Now-Husband Have the Same Name and I Took It as a Sign
Image Source: Cessie Cerrato
My maternal grandfather passed away on Friday, May 29, 2015. I met my now-husband, Manny, the following Thursday, June 4, when we were paired to walk down the aisle together at our friend's wedding. Manny's last name is Cabrera - same as my grandfather, who was Reemberto Cabrera.
Now that we are married, I carry the same last name as my grandfather (my mother's maiden name), and I think it's abuelo's way of making sure I knew he had something to do with this. My grandma jokes that my grandfather sent him to me. I like to believe that's true.
Image Source: Cessie Cerrato
Before my abuelo passed, I sat on his lap on his recliner at home, feeling like my 6-year-old self, and knowing it would likely be the last time. Like many traditional Hispanic men, he was so concerned about leaving this earth without seeing me with "a good man."
In no rush to settle for the sake of settling, I told him I would marry someone when I found a guy just like him - a hard worker who put his family first, was selfless, loving, and a true gentleman. I used to joke with him and say "send me a man like you," and he joked back that men like him rarely existed anymore.
Anyone who knew my grandfather understood that finding a solid man like him was like finding a needle in a haystack.
Image Source: Cessie Cerrato
That's why having my grandfather's memory present on our wedding day was vital to me. Manny purchased my ring from the same diamond dealer my grandfather used to work with as a jeweler. The man who created my ring was a longtime family friend.
A picture of my grandfather hung on my bouquet, which featured orchids - my grandfather's favorite flower. My bouquet also contained carefully placed butterflies - a symbol of emergence and constant transformation - which I had seen the day after he passed. These were tied to my bouquet using fabric from a blue shirt that belonged to my abuelo, some of which I had also sewn onto my dress as my something blue.
Image Source: Miguel Ocque Photography
I wore my childhood azabache, which my grandfather had gifted me as a baby, inside my dress for protection.
I felt my abuelo's presence at the wedding, and I know he was smiling along with me. Now I hope to be able to carry the Cabrera legacy, the unity of our new blended family, and the bond we share for years to come by keeping our culture alive and creatively making it our own as we span generations, always remembering those who came before us.
8 Cute and Cozy Slippers That Are About to Become Your New Best Friends
Right now, we're all staying put at home and doing our part to flatten the curve, and that means we're grabbing our slippers and not letting go. I never really understood the appeal of slippers, since I generally prefer to be barefoot around the house, but now that I'm working from home, my UGG slippers have become my best friends and trusted allies. If you want to keep your toes nice and warm, these eight pairs of slippers are as good as it gets.
From faux fur, to cashmere, to shearling, these picks will keep your feet warm and toasty. Plus, there's a pair of heated slippers calling your name. No matter where you're spending time right now, having a pair of slippers is a really good idea. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
In Case You Forgot, Here's a Refresher on John Krasinski's Fate in A Quiet Place
Beacon of light John Krasinski is now the host of his homemade YouTube channel Some Good News. Before SGN, the beloved actor was set to release A Quiet Place Part II, the follow-up to his film where his character Lee Abbott faced very bad news. Need a refresher on Lee's unfortunate fate? We've got you covered - just be wary of making any sudden noise or movement.
First, let's revisit the premise of the story. Uncannily enough, A Quiet Place begins around the year 2020, when alien monsters wipe out most of humanity by attacking anything that makes noises. Adopting a survivalist lifestyle, Lee and his wife Evelyn (Emily Blunt) live on a farm with their two children, Regan (Millicent Simmonds) and Marcus (Noah Jupe). Regan is deaf and blames herself for her brother Beau's death, as she handed him the loud toy that caused a monster to kill him. This becomes a source of tension between her and Lee. Still, it's clear that Lee still loves her, as he spends his time trying to perfect a hearing aid for her.
Anyway, the end really begins with Evelyn giving birth to another child. As Lee helps his wife, the children hide in a corn silo, where one of the creatures approach them. Regan figures out that the monster hates the high-frequency feedback sound made by her cochlear implant when it approaches her. Though they reunite with their father, the monster attacks Lee. While he and Regan take refuge in an old truck, Marcus shouts out for his dad, which temporarily reroutes the creature. But their father isn't done yet. Dropping his ax, Lee signs to Regan that he loves her, then lets out a scream to direct the monster toward him and save his kids. The creature kills Lee right there and then - cue all of the not-so-quiet sobbing.
Back at their house, Regan cranks up the feedback sound made by her implant with a microphone. This weakens the monster, which lets Evelyn kill it with a shotgun. While we'll see him in flashbacks, it's not likely that Lee is still alive in the sequel. But we'll be looking forward to Krasinski's return as the director - and maybe even as an alien.
22 Reasons The Great British Baking Show Is the Only Thing I'll Watch When I'm Stressed
I can still remember following my mom around the kitchen of our tiny apartment when I was a kid, often covered in chocolate and still too short to see over the counter top as I watched her mix a batch of fresh chocolate chip cookies. She taught me to bake at a young age, and my memories with her probably play a big part in why I still love baking so much today. With so much time to kill as I continue to social distance to prevent the spread of COVID-19, I've been baking up a storm: a loaf of banana bread, a homemade lemon cake, a batch of snickerdoodles, coconut cheesecake, and more. For me, baking just warms the soul.
While I still haven't nailed the "precision" part of baking ("It's like science!" - my mom), my bakes still turn out pretty well. Sometimes, though, I just need to unwind in a different way - which is where Netflix comes in, specifically the only cooking show I have ever deemed truly wholesome: The Great British Baking Show. Some cooking competitions, from Chopped to Masterchef Junior, involve an overwhelming (but entertaining) experience filled with yelling, swearing, crying, and harsh criticism. But The Great British Baking Show strips away the bells and whistles that are meant to make traditional cooking competitions enticing. Instead, it combines all the best elements of a baking show and adds a pinch of British charm, cooking up a fun and heartwarming series worth adding to your Netflix queue.
For anyone who hasn't had the chance to watch Mary Berry savor a rum-spiked chantilly cream, the show follows 12 home bakers of varying skill levels as they compete week after week in three challenges (the signature bake, the technical challenge, and the show-stopper challenge) to determine who will be Star Baker and who will go home. As much as it's a competition, it's also a show about creativity, friendship, bad jokes, and heartwarming moments between people who love cake. So, really, who can't relate? (I know I can.) Here are some of the reasons this show holds such a special place in my heart and helps me wind down now, when I need it most.
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