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 1 juin 2020

Bored at Home? Watch Dr. Pimple Popper’s Best Extraction Videos to Date

Whether you are a Dr. Pimple Popper fan or not, chances are you've seen at least one (if not more - hey, no judgement here) of her oozy cyst or blackhead extraction videos before. Regardless of their squirm-inducing nature, these short clips by dermatologist Sandra Lee, MD, are not only universal (we've all had our challenges with blackheads and acne) but also strangely satisfying.

If you're not sure what to watch next and are looking for a quick fix of satisfying pimple extractions, scroll through for some of her best (but also the gnarliest) pops to date. Forewarning: you might want to watch this after you eat your dinner for the night.

A Look at Chrishell Stause's Relationship History: From Matthew Morrison to Justin Hartley

While Netflix's Selling Sunset mainly revolves around luxury residential properties in Los Angeles, it also follows the lives of elite real estate brokers at The Oppenheim Group. One of those real estate brokers just so happens to be soap star Chrishell Stause. The 38-year-old actress is best known for her roles on All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, and season three of the show looks like it's going to be centered on her recent split from This Is Us star Justin Hartley. Though this may have been Chrishell's most publicized relationship, it hasn't been her only one. As we wait for Selling Sunset to return to Netflix on Aug. 7, keep reading for a look at Chrishell's past romances.

Bored at Home? Watch Dr. Pimple Popper’s Best Extraction Videos to Date

Whether you are a Dr. Pimple Popper fan or not, chances are you've seen at least one (if not more - hey, no judgement here) of her oozy cyst or blackhead extraction videos before. Regardless of their squirm-inducing nature, these short clips by dermatologist Sandra Lee, MD, are not only universal (we've all had our challenges with blackheads and acne) but also strangely satisfying.

If you're not sure what to watch next and are looking for a quick fix of satisfying pimple extractions, scroll through for some of her best (but also the gnarliest) pops to date. Forewarning: you might want to watch this after you eat your dinner for the night.

People Are Making Croissant Bites Stuffed With Nutella, Because Breakfast Is Best Served Sweet

I don't have any kind of culinary degree, but my inner pastry chef is flipping her toque over these mini croissant bites stuffed with Nutella. Originally posted by Sam Schnur, aka @thenaughtyfork on Instagram, the croissant cereal is inspired by TikTok's cookie cereal trend, and it's just as easy to make. So catch me munching on a bowl of this during my next Zoom call or while I'm catching up on all of Dead to Me.

In the video shared to her channel, Sam takes precut pastry dough triangles and slices them into even smaller triangles. She then adds about one teaspoon of Nutella to the widest section of each piece dough before rolling each triangle into a mini croissant. After a few minutes in the oven per the package instructions, each of the teeny-tiny croissants is ready to be thrown into a bowl and served up with milk or an extra drizzle of the chocolate-hazelnut spread. See how Sam makes regular and Nutella-stuffed mini croissants here, and keep reading to treat your eyeballs to something sweet.

Does Having Acne Impact Your Job Prospects? The Answer Might Surprise You

Image Source: Getty

Much to the dismay of anyone with atychiphobia, the truth about job hunting remains: in interviews, like in life, there are only so many things you can control. Even when you've fine-tuned your résumé, researched the company, and concocted a decidedly thoughtful response to the wild card "What kind of animal would you be?" question, sometimes there are other, far less obvious factors playing into your odds of getting hired - like the condition of your skin.

It isn't always conscious, but for some interviewers, the bias is real. Studies have shown that people with facial acne are discriminated against in the job market, with one survey revealing that 78 percent of respondents thought people with blemishes or acne scars were less likely to be hired based on their appearance.

"We live in a society that socializes us to have certain stereotypes that might exist outside of our conscious awareness," said Alison Green, an ex-hiring manager and columnist for the popular career blog Ask a Manager. "These biases can be about race, gender, age, religion, disability, socioeconomic class, physical attractiveness - all sorts of things."

"Whether consciously or unconsciously, we assume that attractiveness is associated with competence, even though we know that it's not true."

From a legal standpoint, no federal law has been passed to protect people based on their appearances, at least not without the evidence of a disability. But that last part - a bias based on someone's physical attractiveness - has been widely researched.

"Whether consciously or unconsciously, we assume that attractiveness is associated with competence, even though we know that it's not true," said Matthew Traube, MFT, a psychotherapist who specializes in the psychological impact of skin conditions. "I have had clients tell me that they felt that they would have gotten a job if they did not have acne."

In some cases, this bias can vary depending on the actual open position; Green notes that more managers will put weight on a candidate's appearance if the job is a client-facing one. "They'll often frame it as looking for candidates who are 'well-groomed and polished,' but in practice that's sometimes more about a particular physical look than it is about polish," she said. "And to be clear, employers should recognize that you can have acne and still be well-groomed and polished."


As for the reason behind the bias, Traube theorizes it could be due to the misguided perception that acneic skin is a result of poor hygiene - an association that, again, the interviewer might only be partly aware of. Dr. Josie Howard, MD, a psychodermatologist and expert for Abreva, agrees: "Blemishes, cold sores, and even psoriasis and eczema are often seen as a source of contagion. Society can have a negative perception of blemishes, especially on the face, even when the condition is common."

In an ideal world, all employers will have trained hiring managers on how to identify, and then guard against, every type of unconscious bias. Still, acne bias can also be self-inflicted. Going into an interview already worried that others will think less of you because of your skin, Traube says, could then negatively affect your performance.

"People become acutely aware of any visible blemishes, and their self-consciousness is intensified."

"Having any visible skin condition - especially one that is on the face, like acne or a cold sore - can have a profound impact on self-esteem," Dr. Howard said. "By definition, job interviews are a time where you are presenting yourself to be evaluated and trying to put your best face forward, so to speak. People become acutely aware of any visible blemishes, and their self-consciousness is intensified - taking their mental and emotional focus off the content of the interview and interpersonal interactions and onto worrying about their skin and appearance."

To make matters worse, if you're prone to hormonal breakouts, the stress that comes with prepping for an interview could also trigger flare-ups. "For skin conditions that are exacerbated by anxiety, this can become a vicious cycle," Dr. Howard said. "Stress can impair the immune system and in turn make you more vulnerable to acne. Then, the stress of a visible outbreak increases stress, further worsening the blemish."

When you feel stress acne coming on, the most important course of action is to stick to your normal skin-care routine. Don't add an extra step or spend too much time in front of a magnifying mirror - that only makes it worse, she says. Keeping a fast-acting spot treatment or hydrocolloid bandage in your purse can give you peace of mind. More importantly, though, wear your confidence as if it were included with purchase of your Cole Haan loafers.

"The single most important factor is presenting yourself as comfortable in your skin," said Dr. Howard. "You might have a visible blemish, but focusing your attention on your excitement about the job will quickly shift your interviewer's focus as well. As Sophia Loren said, 50 percent of beauty is believing you are beautiful."

The 26 Best Patterned Cloth Face Masks Online

Searching for a cloth face mask? The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that Americans wear face coverings when out in public, which means it's vital to stock up. Wearing face masks can help to minimize the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

To make things easier, we created an easy-to-reference shopping guide of all the patterned face masks available to purchase online right now. These options include cool prints that allow you to express your personality. Check them out ahead and order a mask today.

Does Having Acne Impact Your Job Prospects? The Answer Might Surprise You

Image Source: Getty

Much to the dismay of anyone with atychiphobia, the truth about job hunting remains: in interviews, like in life, there are only so many things you can control. Even when you've fine-tuned your résumé, researched the company, and concocted a decidedly thoughtful response to the wild card "What kind of animal would you be?" question, sometimes there are other, far less obvious factors playing into your odds of getting hired - like the condition of your skin.

It isn't always conscious, but for some interviewers, the bias is real. Studies have shown that people with facial acne are discriminated against in the job market, with one survey revealing that 78 percent of respondents thought people with blemishes or acne scars were less likely to be hired based on their appearance.

"We live in a society that socializes us to have certain stereotypes that might exist outside of our conscious awareness," said Alison Green, an ex-hiring manager and columnist for the popular career blog Ask a Manager. "These biases can be about race, gender, age, religion, disability, socioeconomic class, physical attractiveness - all sorts of things."

"Whether consciously or unconsciously, we assume that attractiveness is associated with competence, even though we know that it's not true."

From a legal standpoint, no federal law has been passed to protect people based on their appearances, at least not without the evidence of a disability. But that last part - a bias based on someone's physical attractiveness - has been widely researched.

"Whether consciously or unconsciously, we assume that attractiveness is associated with competence, even though we know that it's not true," said Matthew Traube, MFT, a psychotherapist who specializes in the psychological impact of skin conditions. "I have had clients tell me that they felt that they would have gotten a job if they did not have acne."

In some cases, this bias can vary depending on the actual open position; Green notes that more managers will put weight on a candidate's appearance if the job is a client-facing one. "They'll often frame it as looking for candidates who are 'well-groomed and polished,' but in practice that's sometimes more about a particular physical look than it is about polish," she said. "And to be clear, employers should recognize that you can have acne and still be well-groomed and polished."


As for the reason behind the bias, Traube theorizes it could be due to the misguided perception that acneic skin is a result of poor hygiene - an association that, again, the interviewer might only be partly aware of. Dr. Josie Howard, MD, a psychodermatologist and expert for Abreva, agrees: "Blemishes, cold sores, and even psoriasis and eczema are often seen as a source of contagion. Society can have a negative perception of blemishes, especially on the face, even when the condition is common."

In an ideal world, all employers will have trained hiring managers on how to identify, and then guard against, every type of unconscious bias. Still, acne bias can also be self-inflicted. Going into an interview already worried that others will think less of you because of your skin, Traube says, could then negatively affect your performance.

"People become acutely aware of any visible blemishes, and their self-consciousness is intensified."

"Having any visible skin condition - especially one that is on the face, like acne or a cold sore - can have a profound impact on self-esteem," Dr. Howard said. "By definition, job interviews are a time where you are presenting yourself to be evaluated and trying to put your best face forward, so to speak. People become acutely aware of any visible blemishes, and their self-consciousness is intensified - taking their mental and emotional focus off the content of the interview and interpersonal interactions and onto worrying about their skin and appearance."

To make matters worse, if you're prone to hormonal breakouts, the stress that comes with prepping for an interview could also trigger flare-ups. "For skin conditions that are exacerbated by anxiety, this can become a vicious cycle," Dr. Howard said. "Stress can impair the immune system and in turn make you more vulnerable to acne. Then, the stress of a visible outbreak increases stress, further worsening the blemish."

When you feel stress acne coming on, the most important course of action is to stick to your normal skin-care routine. Don't add an extra step or spend too much time in front of a magnifying mirror - that only makes it worse, she says. Keeping a fast-acting spot treatment or hydrocolloid bandage in your purse can give you peace of mind. More importantly, though, wear your confidence as if it were included with purchase of your Cole Haan loafers.

"The single most important factor is presenting yourself as comfortable in your skin," said Dr. Howard. "You might have a visible blemish, but focusing your attention on your excitement about the job will quickly shift your interviewer's focus as well. As Sophia Loren said, 50 percent of beauty is believing you are beautiful."

The $26 Blemish Oil That Let Me Skip Foundation For a Full Week

There are some moments in your childhood that you never forget. For me, such landmark memories include meeting my best friend and seeing Colin Farrell's beautiful eyebrows for the first time. I remember my debut breakout less enthusiastically. I was 12, and a group of acne clusters rudely decided to throw a party on my face. The day after, my mother brought me to a Macy's beauty counter, where she introduced me to another cherished friend: Clinique foundation, my OG favorite that I still wear today. Twelve years after first testing it, I still get unwanted breakouts (it never ends, people), and I'm the type of person who doesn't feel super comfortable leaving the house without any base on.

Whoops, I should say I was that kind of person - until this week, when I've been going gloriously makeup-free. Truth be told, I'm testing a lot of new skincare products right now that have brightened up my face in general, but I suspect one reason I'm so comfortable baring my acne-prone face is due to the Blume Meltdown Blemish Treatment ($26). The tiny dropper's packaging promises to "take down pimples overnight," and after reading that, I actually huffed a "yeah, right" to no one in particular in my empty apartment's bathroom. The treatment is a mix of mostly celebrity-approved oils such as rosehip (responsible for Kate Middleton's glow), olive (Chloë Grace Moretz is a fan) and tamanu (many influencers swear by the Farsali iteration). That said, adding oils to a greasy complexion can be somewhat ill-advised, and it's not recommended to treat cystic acne, so I wasn't sure if it would make my face worse.

To be very careful, I used only one drop - not a bit more - for my entire face. It sort of works like the liquid version of an acne patch, sucking the gunk out of your face like a magnet. I went to bed with a little bump forming on my face, and when I woke up the mark was still there, but it looked much less threatening. In less than a week, all active breakouts where gone. I still have some light scarring that I'm treating with other products, but my new complexion is clear enough that I'm willing to trot it around town uncovered. (TMI alert: this formula also works great on stubborn ingrown hairs.) I'll still keep my Clinique base close - I'm not ready to go full Alicia Keys just yet - but it's great to prove the cliche of "feeling comfortable in your own skin" true.

dimanche 31 mai 2020

21 Reasons You're Breaking Out, And What to Do About It

We know the only thing more frustrating than recurring breakouts is not knowing where they come from. That's why we're getting to the bottom of the problem. Is it stress? A hormonal breakout? Or just irritation from a new product? Worry no more. Instead, clear up your mind - and your skin - with this guide to the causes of breakouts. Once you know what's causing acne to flare up, it's easy to develop a plan of attack to get rid of your pimple. Read on to see what culprits could be responsible for your blemishes (and what to do about it).

Not Sure If You're Aware, but Kehlani's Daughter Is Insanely Cute - Peep Her Sweetest Snapshots

While you're probably aware Kehlani has a serious set of pipes, you might not have known that she has an adorable daughter. The singer shares her daughter with musician Javaughn Young-White. Although Kehlani chose to keep the identity of Adeya's father a secret for a bit, she has since taken to sharing plenty of cute photos of Adeya to Instagram and has been incredibly honest about her parenting journey.

Identifying as pansexual, the Oakland, CA, native opened up to Nylon magazine in 2018 about how her pregnancy may have taken fans by surprise. "I've gotten everything from 'I thought she was a lesbian' to 'she was using queerness to promote her career, then went and betrayed us with a man' to 'her baby father is just a sperm donor,'" she said. "One, I never identified as a lesbian. I've always been pansexual."

Since giving birth, it seems Kehlani has been eating up every single precious moment with her baby girl. Get a look at some of her daughter's cutest photos ahead.

Netflix Has 9 New Original Movies Coming in June, and You Could Say We're a BIT Excited

Every month is a great month for movies on Netflix, but June 2020 is looking especially promising, y'all. This month, you can expect to see a bizarre comedy starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, a Spike Lee-directed war drama, a dance flick starring Descendants star Sofia Carson, and not just one, but two movies starring super hunk Édgar Ramírez, aka Gianni Versace from American Crime Story. You can also expect to see movies from India, Turkey, Spain, and Chile, and damn, do they look good. Check out the gallery for all the new movies getting ready to drop this June.

8 Everyday Habits That Help Me Better Manage the Symptoms of ADHD

I've always had difficulty focusing, but I wasn't diagnosed with ADHD until my first year at community college. I was struggling to stay seated in class, and found myself constantly losing my professors during lectures - so I reached out to a doctor for help.

I was prescribed a low dose of a stimulant to help me find the focus I needed to be fully present in class, and at first, it helped tremendously. My racing mind slowed, and I could delegate tasks and stay still and focused long enough to finish them. My grades improved, and I was able to achieve some balance between my studies, work, and life outside the classroom. Unfortunately though, I began to experience some side effects from the medication, and when I eventually found that the negatives outweighed the positives for me, I made the difficult decision to stop taking it.

Managing my symptoms without medication takes significant effort and work every day, but I've seen major improvements in the almost two years since I went off my prescription. It's important to note that there's no shame in taking any medication that's a good fit for you, and if you're in a place where you'd like to explore other options, it's crucial to speak with your doctor first! Keep reading to learn more about the natural ways I stay on top of my diagnosis.

Do Yourself a Favor and Watch a Shirtless Shaun T Crush the "Ice Me Out" Dance Challenge

@shaunt

But I really would get naked for a tennis bracelet though! 🤷🏽‍♂️😝 dc: @elliepascuaa #icemeout #fyp #foryoupage #foryou

♬ Ice Me Out - Kash Doll

Most of you know Shaun T from his intense Beachbody programs like Insanity and Transform :20, but before sharing his intense workouts with the world, he was a professional dancer working with icons like Mariah Carey!

He's been taking on all the TikTok dance challenges and crushing them, and I cannot stop watching his videos. It's hard to choose my favorite, but I am loving his take on the "Ice Me Out" challenge. There's no denying that his moves are on point, but I'm also here to point out how sculpted his muscles are - especially his abs! If you're in need of a mood boost, watch him crush this dance, then give it a shot for yourself.

Sheet Pan Protein Pancakes Mean Less Mess, No Flipping, and No Standing Over a Hot Pan!

I'm always excited to cut into a stack of soft and fresh-off-the-griddle pancakes, but ugh - making them can be such a process. It stinks because I have to stand over the hot pan with spatula in hand and make small batches of pancakes at a time, and everyone is waiting around for them to finish cooking! I have to use so much vegan butter to prevent them from sticking, so even if my batter is healthy, the end result is pretty high in fat. Ever since I tried baking my pancakes on a sheet pan, my pancake game has been forever changed.

These pancakes are fluffy in texture, yet also firm enough to hold in your hand if you need to eat on the go. They have a deliciously cake-like sweet vanilla cinnamon flavor. I used frozen blueberries for this recipe, but you could use any fruit or mix of fruit - raspberries, strawberries, peaches, apples, bananas - the combinations are endless! I think they taste sweet enough without maple syrup, but feel free to add the toppings of your choice, like fresh fruits, a sprinkling of nuts or seeds, or a dollop of nut butter or dairy-free yogurt.

This recipe is made with whole-wheat flour and protein powder, so each square offers five grams of protein - a stack of three offers 15 grams. There's also flaxmeal and low-carb blueberries for added fiber, making these baked pancakes so satisfying‚ you'll be full for hours.

Meal prep a batch of these vegan sheet pan protein pancakes on Sunday, and you'll have a week's worth of breakfast ready to go - or freeze them for later!

Vegan Whole-Wheat Sheet Pan Protein Pancakes

from Jenny Sugar, POPSUGAR Fitness

Ingredients

  1. 3 1/4 cups unsweetened soy milk
    1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    2 1/2 cups white whole-wheat flour
    1 serving vanilla plant-based protein powder (about 1/3 cup; I used KOS, which has 20 grams of protein per serving)
    3 tablespoons baking powder
    2 tablespoons flaxmeal
    1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/4 cup oil (coconut or olive)
    1/4 cup maple syrup
    1 teaspoon vanilla
    1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line an 11x17 baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl or four-cup measuring cup, mix the nondairy milk and apple cider vinegar, and set aside to curdle.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the flour, protein powder, baking powder, flaxmeal, cinnamon, and salt together.
  4. Add the oil, maple syrup, and vanilla to the nondairy milk mixture and mix well.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the large bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  6. Pour the pancake batter onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it evenly. You'll notice that the batter will be puffy - that's the baking powder reacting with the apple cider vinegar, and that's what makes these pancakes fluffy. Top with blueberries.
  7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow pancakes to cool for five minutes before cutting into 16 squares. Enjoy with syrup, more fruit, nuts, yogurt, or nut butter. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or in the freezer for several weeks.

Here's the nutritional information for one square:

Netflix Has 9 New Original Movies Coming in June, and You Could Say We're a BIT Excited

Every month is a great month for movies on Netflix, but June 2020 is looking especially promising, y'all. This month, you can expect to see a bizarre comedy starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, a Spike Lee-directed war drama, a dance flick starring Descendants star Sofia Carson, and not just one, but two movies starring super hunk Édgar Ramírez, aka Gianni Versace from American Crime Story. You can also expect to see movies from India, Turkey, Spain, and Chile, and damn, do they look good. Check out the gallery for all the new movies getting ready to drop this June.

11 Cute Leggings You Won't Believe Are From Old Navy - All Under $35

Buying activewear can get expensive. Considering that we need enough leggings to get through our weekly workouts as well as our Netflix-sessions (they're really comfortable!), shopping for workout gear can really run up your credit card bill. That's why we were thrilled to discover Old Navy's huge selection of stylish and affordable workout clothes that feel as good as they look.

The stylish collection features all the major trends, like graphic prints, mesh cutouts, and cute ankle details. Not only do they look great, but the retailer has ensured that these stretchy leggings will fit you with the inclusion of petite, tall, and plus sizes.

Not one of the pairs of leggings costs over $40 (with many costing around $25), so you'll be able to afford to buy every style and hue you desire.

Beginners: Here's How Long and How Often You Should Weightlift Each Week to Get Stronger

Starting a new workout routine can be both exciting but also slightly daunting if you're not sure where to begin. You may be tempted to do the most intense workout you saved on Instagram, but that's not the best idea. Instead, you should first focus on nailing the core movement patterns and building a foundation of strength. We all have different goals and different genetic profiles which will impact how we train and the styles of workouts that we do, and there isn't one perfect way to get started but the following advice can definitely help you out.

How Long Should Strength Workouts Be For Beginners?

"I suggest 45-minute to an hour sessions independent of your fitness level," Holly Rilinger, NASM-certified, Nike master trainer, and creator of the Lifted program, told POPSUGAR. In her opinion, "This is the perfect amount of time to warm up, get a solid workout in, and cool down properly." Rilinger recommends training for no longer than an hour because it's enough time to get a quality session in without losing your motivation, she said.

Kellen Scantlebury, DPT, CSCS, the founder of Fit Club in New York City, recommends strength training for 30 to 45 minutes and using light to moderate resistance (Here's guide on how to choose your weights.) "We want to make sure we can build a base level of strength and also allow for neuromuscular adaptations to take place," he explained. Similar to Rilinger, Scantlebury said a 30- to 45-minute time frame won't discourage you and will help you feel more encouraged to train consistently.

How Often Should Beginners Strength Train Per Week?

You may be motivated to go hard seven days a week, but Rilinger advises against doing so. If you're new to strength training, Rilinger said to start with two to three total-body workouts a week. "This will give you plenty of time to recover while providing enough stimulus to change your body," she explained. She prefers full-body workouts over isolating specific muscle groups because you'll be able to perform more repetitions and train at a higher frequency to develop the basic movement patterns, she said.

"For beginners, I would start out with three days a week. This allows your body time to recover in between workouts, which is very important," Scantlebury said. Instead of training back-to-back, he recommends taking a day of rest in between your workouts to help reduce the amount of muscle soreness you may experience and to also help your muscle fibers repair and grow back both bigger and stronger. When it comes to isolating muscle groups or doing full-body workouts, Scantlebury said, "This really depends on the client's goals."

If your goal is to lose body fat, he recommends focusing on total-body workouts because "This allows for the greatest amount of muscles to be used during each workout and allows for a high calorie burn during each workout." If you're trying to put on muscle or gain weight, Scantlebury recommends training specific body parts during each session. "This allows us to focus on specific muscle groups and gives each group the proper volume - the total amount of repetitions and sets - of work needed to grow," he explained.

The Strength Exercises Every Beginner Should Know

You may be motivated to take on high-intensity exercises like plyo lunges and burpees, but before you do a single rep of either, you should master the basic strength movements. "I love the basics. I make sure my clients are highly proficient with their squat pattern, their deadlift pattern, their plank, and their overhead pressing pattern before moving on to more advanced movements," Scantlebury said.

"The foundation of a strength training program should be squats (knee dominant), deadlifts (hip dominant), bench press (upper-body push), and rows (upper-body pull)," Rilinger explained. These aren't the only four exercises you should do, as there are many variations to each movement pattern, but Rilinger recommends covering these essential movements patterns in every workout. If you aren't comfortable creating your own training program or if you'd like to discuss your goals and how to achieve them with someone more experienced, Rilinger recommends working with a professional trainer. "A good trainer will teach you basic movement patterns and will know how to design progressive programs that will help you reach your goals," she said. Conversely, "Uneducated trainers will show you creative moves that seem fun and innovative that do very little to change your body."

In addition to mastering the basics, Scantlebury said to show up each day with a positive attitude. "If you are in a good mood and have a mindset to get your work in each day, you will succeed." If you're ready to get started strength training, check out this four-week program to get back in shape or this four-week plan to build muscle.

11 Cute Leggings You Won't Believe Are From Old Navy - All Under $35

Buying activewear can get expensive. Considering that we need enough leggings to get through our weekly workouts as well as our Netflix-sessions (they're really comfortable!), shopping for workout gear can really run up your credit card bill. That's why we were thrilled to discover Old Navy's huge selection of stylish and affordable workout clothes that feel as good as they look.

The stylish collection features all the major trends, like graphic prints, mesh cutouts, and cute ankle details. Not only do they look great, but the retailer has ensured that these stretchy leggings will fit you with the inclusion of petite, tall, and plus sizes.

Not one of the pairs of leggings costs over $40 (with many costing around $25), so you'll be able to afford to buy every style and hue you desire.

Still No Letter From Hogwarts? At Least You Can Now Watch All 8 Harry Potter Movies on HBO Max

HBO Max launched on May 27, and it's already pulling out the big wands. WarnerMedia's streaming service came online with 10,000 hours of film and TV shows, including all eight Harry Potter films. So if anyone staying at home is hoping to tap into the magic of the wizarding world, all they need is a current HBO subscription or $15 a month to sign up for HBO Max.

The investment was an expensive one for WarnerMedia, who had to buy back its claim on all of J.K. Rowling's wizarding world films - including the two Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them movies - after Universal nabbed exclusive rights in a 2016 deal. Kevin Reilly, HBO Max's content chief, told Business Insider that taking back the franchise rights was "high on our priority list" and that there was "active engagement around that discussion." Seems like they said the magic word and Harry Potter fans are reaping the benefits!

Not only can you watch all of Harry's adventures from Sorcerer's Stone to the Deathly Hallows two-parter, but HBO Max will include exclusive licensed programming, like all the seasons of Friends (and the big reunion) and The Big Bang Theory, as well as original content like Gary Janetti's satirical animated TV series titled The Prince. But obviously, the first thing we're doing is going back to Hogwarts!

Beginners: Here's How Long and How Often You Should Weightlift Each Week to Get Stronger

Starting a new workout routine can be both exciting but also slightly daunting if you're not sure where to begin. You may be tempted to do the most intense workout you saved on Instagram, but that's not the best idea. Instead, you should first focus on nailing the core movement patterns and building a foundation of strength. We all have different goals and different genetic profiles which will impact how we train and the styles of workouts that we do, and there isn't one perfect way to get started but the following advice can definitely help you out.

How Long Should Strength Workouts Be For Beginners?

"I suggest 45-minute to an hour sessions independent of your fitness level," Holly Rilinger, NASM-certified, Nike master trainer, and creator of the Lifted program, told POPSUGAR. In her opinion, "This is the perfect amount of time to warm up, get a solid workout in, and cool down properly." Rilinger recommends training for no longer than an hour because it's enough time to get a quality session in without losing your motivation, she said.

Kellen Scantlebury, DPT, CSCS, the founder of Fit Club in New York City, recommends strength training for 30 to 45 minutes and using light to moderate resistance (Here's guide on how to choose your weights.) "We want to make sure we can build a base level of strength and also allow for neuromuscular adaptations to take place," he explained. Similar to Rilinger, Scantlebury said a 30- to 45-minute time frame won't discourage you and will help you feel more encouraged to train consistently.

How Often Should Beginners Strength Train Per Week?

You may be motivated to go hard seven days a week, but Rilinger advises against doing so. If you're new to strength training, Rilinger said to start with two to three total-body workouts a week. "This will give you plenty of time to recover while providing enough stimulus to change your body," she explained. She prefers full-body workouts over isolating specific muscle groups because you'll be able to perform more repetitions and train at a higher frequency to develop the basic movement patterns, she said.

"For beginners, I would start out with three days a week. This allows your body time to recover in between workouts, which is very important," Scantlebury said. Instead of training back-to-back, he recommends taking a day of rest in between your workouts to help reduce the amount of muscle soreness you may experience and to also help your muscle fibers repair and grow back both bigger and stronger. When it comes to isolating muscle groups or doing full-body workouts, Scantlebury said, "This really depends on the client's goals."

If your goal is to lose body fat, he recommends focusing on total-body workouts because "This allows for the greatest amount of muscles to be used during each workout and allows for a high calorie burn during each workout." If you're trying to put on muscle or gain weight, Scantlebury recommends training specific body parts during each session. "This allows us to focus on specific muscle groups and gives each group the proper volume - the total amount of repetitions and sets - of work needed to grow," he explained.

The Strength Exercises Every Beginner Should Know

You may be motivated to take on high-intensity exercises like plyo lunges and burpees, but before you do a single rep of either, you should master the basic strength movements. "I love the basics. I make sure my clients are highly proficient with their squat pattern, their deadlift pattern, their plank, and their overhead pressing pattern before moving on to more advanced movements," Scantlebury said.

"The foundation of a strength training program should be squats (knee dominant), deadlifts (hip dominant), bench press (upper-body push), and rows (upper-body pull)," Rilinger explained. These aren't the only four exercises you should do, as there are many variations to each movement pattern, but Rilinger recommends covering these essential movements patterns in every workout. If you aren't comfortable creating your own training program or if you'd like to discuss your goals and how to achieve them with someone more experienced, Rilinger recommends working with a professional trainer. "A good trainer will teach you basic movement patterns and will know how to design progressive programs that will help you reach your goals," she said. Conversely, "Uneducated trainers will show you creative moves that seem fun and innovative that do very little to change your body."

In addition to mastering the basics, Scantlebury said to show up each day with a positive attitude. "If you are in a good mood and have a mindset to get your work in each day, you will succeed." If you're ready to get started strength training, check out this four-week program to get back in shape or this four-week plan to build muscle.

6 Things a Personal Trainer Wants You to Know About Zoom Workouts


Joining Zoom workout classes from your childhood bedroom - detergent-bottle weights in hand - can feel intimidating and inconvenient. But, for Astrid Swan, an NASM-certified personal trainer and the chief curriculum lead for Barry's, being able to connect with clients while social distancing has been "a gift."

That's not to say Swan hasn't faced challenges - like learning the proper camera angles to demonstrate moves or recognizing when a client fakes a poor WiFi connection just to catch a break (yes, that really happened!). But her optimistic attitude stems from the many advantages she's found that Zoom training offers to both clients and professionals.

Months into teaching via Zoom, Swan has developed a unique perspective on the experience, and chatting with her has changed the way I view digital personal training as a client. Her point of view could help other skeptics feel more comfortable, too.

Trainers Can Reach New Communities

Being separated from her energetic work family and gym was the hardest roadblock Swan faced once Barry's temporarily closed its doors. But when the brand launched at-home Zoom classes, she felt her community come back together: "The energy was back!"

Now, Swan has connected to more people than ever before, thanks to her Zoom training sessions.

"[I] feel so lucky to continue to help people get their endorphins up, stress down, and goals achieved," Swan explains. "Also, with our at-home platform, I am able to train people from all over the world, and many first-timers who don't live in an area where we have a location."

Sitting and Watching Is Part of the Trainer's Job

As a self-described "hawk for form," Swan wants you to know that just because a personal trainer is sitting and staring at the screen doesn't mean they aren't prepared for your session.

"I am still able to achieve the call-outs, encouragement, and form corrections," Swan elaborates.

Zoom Training Means Fewer Opportunities to Make Excuses

In Swan's opinion, Zoom training means "no excuses."

"Time is always something we say we don't have enough of - but with Zoom, we don't have to worry about cutting the workout short because of [a] commute," she notes.

A messy room and makeshift weights are no excuses to put off a Zoom training session, either - almost everyone is experiencing similar conditions.

"Start today," she recommends. "We want you to get up and get moving!"

Clients Shouldn't Feel Camera Shy

"We want to see you. AKA: turn on your camera!" Swan urges.

Just like in-person fitness classes, everyone in a group Zoom workout is working to their own level - Swan is adamant that people aren't judging you.

"We love having you join our homes, and we love it if your pet or your child joins in! We understand it takes a minute to get used to the format, but also know, like any workout, you won't regret it when it is over," she explains.

Group and Personal Training Are Equally Rewarding

For Swan, both personal and group-training Zoom sessions are customizable to the clients.

Personal training allows her to get creative when working toward one person's specific goals, while group training offers more of a social experience.

During group sessions, Swan always checks to see if any expecting moms or people dealing with injuries need extra coaching or modifications. She also encourages people within the group to chat, even if it's to vent about how challenging the class was.

"At the end of group training, we unmute everyone, and it's nice to catch up on jokes, encouragements, and see how everyone is doing," Swan adds.

Zoom Training Is the Future

"I do think Zoom fitness sessions will remain popular because of the ease of just opening up your computer to start your workout," Swan says.

She notes the convenience factor for stay-at-home parents who can continue to time workouts around their kids' naps, and for working clients that can sweat between meetings and on lunch breaks.

And it doesn't hurt that the app has made adjusting to virtual training a breeze. Trainers can sync music to workouts, there's no cap to the number of people that can join, and it gives clients the freedom to customize their video settings.

Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.

I’m Escaping Stress With Soothing Scalp Massages - and You Should, Too


I'm definitely overwashing my hair right now.

It's not getting any oiler than usual, and I haven't used a spritz of dry shampoo or popped open a tube of styling cream in nearly three months, so product build-up also isn't an issue.

Nine times out of 10, I've been wetting (and washing) my hair solely for the de-stressing scalp massages.

A long, hot shower (or a full bathtub with a glass of red wine and a good book) is my go-to tool for unwinding and releasing tension when my head feels like it's going to explode, or when I'm on the brink of stress-induced tears. Adding a scalp massage to the mix guarantees I will walk out of the bathroom feeling like a much calmer woman without a headache.

To ace my technique (and to attempt to re-create the glorious scalp massages I get at the salon before a haircut), I reached out to my hairstylist Erickson Arrunategui.

What makes a scalp massage so relaxing at the salon, in Arrunategui's opinion, is having someone else do it for you - a few minutes where you simply don't have to think. If you feel comfortable, he suggests having someone wash your hair for you - perhaps someone you're quarantining with or a significant other. You can even set up a makeshift hair-washing station in your kitchen or bathroom.

However, you can easily give yourself a scalp massage, too. First, wet your hair and apply some shampoo - Arrunategui says this will help your hands glide around the scalp for a soothing, relaxing experience.

I've been loving the Drunk Elephant Cocomino Glossing Shampoo ($25) because it's sulfate-free but still has an impressive lather.

Start at the sides of the head and massage toward the temples, working your way around the head.

"No fast motions and no scratching your scalp. Use the balls of the fingertips to really get rid of any tension you're holding in your scalp," Arrunategui notes.

Spend a few minutes massaging before you rinse.

Post-shower, I like to wrap myself up in a fuzzy robe, press play on an acoustic Spotify playlist, sit on the side of the tub, and take in a few deep breaths.

How's that for tackling a tension headache?

Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.

6 Things a Personal Trainer Wants You to Know About Zoom Workouts


Joining Zoom workout classes from your childhood bedroom - detergent-bottle weights in hand - can feel intimidating and inconvenient. But, for Astrid Swan, an NASM-certified personal trainer and the chief curriculum lead for Barry's, being able to connect with clients while social distancing has been "a gift."

That's not to say Swan hasn't faced challenges - like learning the proper camera angles to demonstrate moves or recognizing when a client fakes a poor WiFi connection just to catch a break (yes, that really happened!). But her optimistic attitude stems from the many advantages she's found that Zoom training offers to both clients and professionals.

Months into teaching via Zoom, Swan has developed a unique perspective on the experience, and chatting with her has changed the way I view digital personal training as a client. Her point of view could help other skeptics feel more comfortable, too.

Trainers Can Reach New Communities

Being separated from her energetic work family and gym was the hardest roadblock Swan faced once Barry's temporarily closed its doors. But when the brand launched at-home Zoom classes, she felt her community come back together: "The energy was back!"

Now, Swan has connected to more people than ever before, thanks to her Zoom training sessions.

"[I] feel so lucky to continue to help people get their endorphins up, stress down, and goals achieved," Swan explains. "Also, with our at-home platform, I am able to train people from all over the world, and many first-timers who don't live in an area where we have a location."

Sitting and Watching Is Part of the Trainer's Job

As a self-described "hawk for form," Swan wants you to know that just because a personal trainer is sitting and staring at the screen doesn't mean they aren't prepared for your session.

"I am still able to achieve the call-outs, encouragement, and form corrections," Swan elaborates.

Zoom Training Means Fewer Opportunities to Make Excuses

In Swan's opinion, Zoom training means "no excuses."

"Time is always something we say we don't have enough of - but with Zoom, we don't have to worry about cutting the workout short because of [a] commute," she notes.

A messy room and makeshift weights are no excuses to put off a Zoom training session, either - almost everyone is experiencing similar conditions.

"Start today," she recommends. "We want you to get up and get moving!"

Clients Shouldn't Feel Camera Shy

"We want to see you. AKA: turn on your camera!" Swan urges.

Just like in-person fitness classes, everyone in a group Zoom workout is working to their own level - Swan is adamant that people aren't judging you.

"We love having you join our homes, and we love it if your pet or your child joins in! We understand it takes a minute to get used to the format, but also know, like any workout, you won't regret it when it is over," she explains.

Group and Personal Training Are Equally Rewarding

For Swan, both personal and group-training Zoom sessions are customizable to the clients.

Personal training allows her to get creative when working toward one person's specific goals, while group training offers more of a social experience.

During group sessions, Swan always checks to see if any expecting moms or people dealing with injuries need extra coaching or modifications. She also encourages people within the group to chat, even if it's to vent about how challenging the class was.

"At the end of group training, we unmute everyone, and it's nice to catch up on jokes, encouragements, and see how everyone is doing," Swan adds.

Zoom Training Is the Future

"I do think Zoom fitness sessions will remain popular because of the ease of just opening up your computer to start your workout," Swan says.

She notes the convenience factor for stay-at-home parents who can continue to time workouts around their kids' naps, and for working clients that can sweat between meetings and on lunch breaks.

And it doesn't hurt that the app has made adjusting to virtual training a breeze. Trainers can sync music to workouts, there's no cap to the number of people that can join, and it gives clients the freedom to customize their video settings.

Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.