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.
mercredi 5 août 2020
Demi Lovato Embraced the '90s With Mini Space Buns and Lips So Glossy We Need Sunglasses
If ever you had any doubt that '90s style continues to reign supreme, please direct your attention to Demi Lovato's most recent Instagram post. In a slideshow shared to her grid on Tuesday, Lovato posted two photos showing off her adorable mini space buns and a supersoft makeup look that has us ready to reach for the nearest tube of Lip Smacker.
Lovato paired the throwback look with a soft pink smoky eye, extra long lashes, and, of course, a classic glossy lip that's almost as shiny as her silver hoop earrings. The baggy jeans and oversize, pastel T-shirt only have us reliving everything we love about the decade even more. Check out Lovato's full look here, and take a trip down memory lane with this list of '90s makeup product essentials.
20 Parenting Influencers Who'll Help You Expand Your View of Motherhood
As a woman of color content creator myself, I can tell you first-hand that it is such a struggle to take up this space that has been predominantly given to white women. And as I have grown and cultivated my platform, I came to realize how much the divisiveness in our country can be mitigated by our ability to empathize with one another. This is why it is pertinent to expand our scope of understanding for other women - and an easy way to do so is to diversify your social media feed.
Instead of curating a homogenized feed full of people that look similar to you, consider this a prime opportunity to expand your understanding through a commonality that unites so many women: motherhood. I've put together a list of some of my favorite BIPOC women to follow, all of who are amplifying diverse narratives of motherhood. Scroll through and follow this gallery of 20 women of color bloggers, influencers, and content creators to broaden Instagram feed and expand your view of motherhood!
mardi 4 août 2020
What Would the Disney Princesses Be For Halloween? This Artist Puts Them in Pop Culture Costumes
Artist Isaiah Stephens created this awesome art series, reimagining Disney princes, princesses, villains, and other characters as if they decided to dress in pop culture-inspired costumes for Halloween. Beast as The Hulk is pretty spot-on, but I also love Belle as Hermione, Ursula as Beyoncé, and all the princesses who are dressed as superheroines - strong women characters for the win! See them all now, and check out more Disney princess art here.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes
What Would the Disney Princesses Be For Halloween? This Artist Puts Them in Pop Culture Costumes
Artist Isaiah Stephens created this awesome art series, reimagining Disney princes, princesses, villains, and other characters as if they decided to dress in pop culture-inspired costumes for Halloween. Beast as The Hulk is pretty spot-on, but I also love Belle as Hermione, Ursula as Beyoncé, and all the princesses who are dressed as superheroines - strong women characters for the win! See them all now, and check out more Disney princess art here.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes
What Would the Disney Princesses Be For Halloween? This Artist Puts Them in Pop Culture Costumes
Artist Isaiah Stephens created this awesome art series, reimagining Disney princes, princesses, villains, and other characters as if they decided to dress in pop culture-inspired costumes for Halloween. Beast as The Hulk is pretty spot-on, but I also love Belle as Hermione, Ursula as Beyoncé, and all the princesses who are dressed as superheroines - strong women characters for the win! See them all now, and check out more Disney princess art here.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes
Swiss Miss Has New Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Because Our Taste Buds Are Ready For Fall
Grab a bag of mini marshmallows and slip on an oversize sweater, because Swiss Miss just combined two of our favorite fall drinks to create Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, and I'm already grabbing my favorite mug. The sweet drink, originally introduced in 2019, looks like it's made to be served with a generous swirl of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, so please excuse me while I sift through my spice cabinet. For anyone in the mood for a spiked hot chocolate, a splash of vodka could also pair well with these warm fall flavors, so don't hesitate to try out your microwave barista skills and personalize your pumpkin spice hot chocolate any way you want.
The limited-edition treat will be available nationwide at retailers such as Target and Walmart for $2 per eight-count box beginning in September. If you're looking to stock up for the winter in the meantime, Amazon is currently selling a 12-box bundle for $39. That may sound like a lot of hot chocolate (and it is), but something tells me I'll be ready to stock up on more in no time.
Swiss Miss Has New Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Because Our Taste Buds Are Ready For Fall
Grab a bag of mini marshmallows and slip on an oversize sweater, because Swiss Miss just combined two of our favorite fall drinks to create Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, and I'm already grabbing my favorite mug. The sweet drink, originally introduced in 2019, looks like it's made to be served with a generous swirl of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, so please excuse me while I sift through my spice cabinet. For anyone in the mood for a spiked hot chocolate, a splash of vodka could also pair well with these warm fall flavors, so don't hesitate to try out your microwave barista skills and personalize your pumpkin spice hot chocolate any way you want.
The limited-edition treat will be available nationwide at retailers such as Target and Walmart for $2 per eight-count box beginning in September. If you're looking to stock up for the winter in the meantime, Amazon is currently selling a 12-box bundle for $39. That may sound like a lot of hot chocolate (and it is), but something tells me I'll be ready to stock up on more in no time.
Swiss Miss Has New Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Because Our Taste Buds Are Ready For Fall
Grab a bag of mini marshmallows and slip on an oversize sweater, because Swiss Miss just combined two of our favorite fall drinks to create Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, and I'm already grabbing my favorite mug. The sweet drink, originally introduced in 2019, looks like it's made to be served with a generous swirl of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, so please excuse me while I sift through my spice cabinet. For anyone in the mood for a spiked hot chocolate, a splash of vodka could also pair well with these warm fall flavors, so don't hesitate to try out your microwave barista skills and personalize your pumpkin spice hot chocolate any way you want.
The limited-edition treat will be available nationwide at retailers such as Target and Walmart for $2 per eight-count box beginning in September. If you're looking to stock up for the winter in the meantime, Amazon is currently selling a 12-box bundle for $39. That may sound like a lot of hot chocolate (and it is), but something tells me I'll be ready to stock up on more in no time.
A Helpful Guide to Some of the Most Popular Types of Hair Extensions
When it comes to figuring out ways to add length and volume to our hair, we've come a long way. Hair extensions are life-savers in helping us experiment with all kinds of colors and lengths that we may not have tried otherwise, and the best thing is that they're not just popular among celebrities like the Kardashians - they're more accessible than ever. From clip-ins to the more complex bond extensions, there are a ton of avenues you can explore if you want to switch up your hair temporarily or semi-permanently. Whatever your preference, we've broken a few of them down for you.
Read ahead for a mini guide to some of the most popular types of hair extensions.
New Trader Joe's Products You Need to Put on Your Grocery List ASAP
If there's anything better than Trader Joe's products, it's new Trader Joe's products. In 2019, the store shook things up with a bunch of fantastic new food items in seemingly every department. The real question is, can 2020 top it all? So far, we think the answer's yes. From cheddar garlic focaccia bread to kale gnocchi, juice shots to keep you healthy, and more, you'll know what you want before heading out the door. Here's a roundup of the can't-miss newbies from Trader Joe's so far this year. Trust us, they're so appetizing, you'll want to eat every little thing.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes, Sara Bacon, and Hajar Larbah
Prices and products may vary by Trader Joe's location.
A Helpful Guide to Some of the Most Popular Types of Hair Extensions
When it comes to figuring out ways to add length and volume to our hair, we've come a long way. Hair extensions are life-savers in helping us experiment with all kinds of colors and lengths that we may not have tried otherwise, and the best thing is that they're not just popular among celebrities like the Kardashians - they're more accessible than ever. From clip-ins to the more complex bond extensions, there are a ton of avenues you can explore if you want to switch up your hair temporarily or semi-permanently. Whatever your preference, we've broken a few of them down for you.
Read ahead for a mini guide to some of the most popular types of hair extensions.
Over 25 Warm Foods to Pack in Your Kiddo's Lunch Box This School Year - All Made in the Crockpot!
If you're tired of the same old song and dance that comes with making your child a PB&J sandwich every morning - and your child is equally as bored - it's time to switch things up. Put your slow cooker to use this school year for more than dinners and freezer meals, and whip up a batch of something your kid loves on the weekend to provide them with a hot food meal option all week long. All you need to do in the morning is reheat the food (not in a plastic container, though!) and pack it in an insulated lunch container that'll keep it warm until their lunch hour.
Check out some of our favorite slow cooker meals that'll fill your kiddo up just enough so they're ready for an afternoon of learning.
New Trader Joe's Products You Need to Put on Your Grocery List ASAP
If there's anything better than Trader Joe's products, it's new Trader Joe's products. In 2019, the store shook things up with a bunch of fantastic new food items in seemingly every department. The real question is, can 2020 top it all? So far, we think the answer's yes. From cheddar garlic focaccia bread to kale gnocchi, juice shots to keep you healthy, and more, you'll know what you want before heading out the door. Here's a roundup of the can't-miss newbies from Trader Joe's so far this year. Trust us, they're so appetizing, you'll want to eat every little thing.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes, Sara Bacon, and Hajar Larbah
Prices and products may vary by Trader Joe's location.
The 44 Absolute Best Gifts You Can Buy For Tweens
Not little kids, but not quite teens, tweens can be a difficult group to please when it comes to shopping. But not to worry, because with our list of gifts, you're sure to get a smile from the biggest kids (but don't call them that!) in your life. Whether you have a mini fashionista or a kid who loves playing outside on your hands, we've got you covered.
Ahead, you can shop our 44 hottest gifts for tweens that will blow them away. We uncovered everything like play chemistry sets, bikes, and even cute lights for their bedrooms. These presents are perfect for your middle schooler who can't wait to grow up but still can't resist a cool toy or two. Keep reading to shop them all.
- Additional reporting by Eleanor Sheehan
How Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev's Love Story Started on Live TV
Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev are officially parents! They welcomed their first son on July 31 (incidentally, only a day before her twin sister also had a son!). The new parents have had a whirlwind romance, only having been officially dating for about a year and a half, but they first met years earlier - and they can thank reality TV for introducing them.
Back in 2017, Nikki and Artem met when they were paired up on season 25 of Dancing with the Stars. They made it through seven weeks of competition before being eliminated, landing in a tie for 7th place overall. At the time, Nikki was actually still engaged to her ex, fellow wrestler John Cena. Nikki even told E! News that she wanted Artem to teach her and Cena for their first dance at their wedding. "Well, if John's going to be up for it, taking some dance lessons, I'm sure we can figure something out," Artem joked back.
Of course, we all know that wedding never actually happened: Nikki and Cena broke up for good in July 2018, after six years of an on-and-off relationship. In December of that year, Nikki talked to Us Weekly about singledom and seemed to indicate that she was single at the time. "It's hard being a single girl. Over the holidays, I'm really looking forward to wandering into some bars and being a single girl."
By the beginning of 2019, however, the rumor mill had shifted gears, and reports circulated that Nikki had actually been dating Artem for longer than anyone thought. A source told Us Weekly in early January 2019 that the couple had been dating "for a while" at that point. Nikki continued to say that they were friends and nothing more, at least for a couple of months.
That lasted until the airing of a March 2019 episode of Total Bellas that confirmed their relationship. "I have this new level of excitement. I'm just having a lot of fun. And I feel like, the first time ever, I'm focusing on me. It's crazy. I never in my life would've thought that, like, I would've had a lot in common with a Russian," Nikki said in the episode. "I'm ready to really explore new things and people and just really see what certain chemistries are all about." After the episode aired, Nikki shared a cute photo to Instagram, featuring her planting a kiss on his cheek. "Well after that season finale. First thing I'll be talking about this Wednesday..." she captioned the photo. They continued documenting their relationship in public, especially on The Bellas Podcast, which Nikki hosts with her twin sister Brie.
They revealed their engagement in a January 2020 Instagram post, where Nikki also revealed that they actually had gotten engaged two months earlier, while in France in November 2019. Only a few weeks after sharing their engagement news, they also revealed that they were expecting their first child.
Yes, Please! Justin, Harper, and Mason From Wizards of Waverly Place Had a Magical Reunion
If you've ever stepped into a subway shop around lunch time and secretly wondered if a family of wizards lives upstairs, you probably grew up watching Wizards of Waverly Place on Disney Channel. Eight years after the final Russo family battle, David Henrie (Justin Russo), Jennifer Stone (Harper Finkle), and Gregg Sulkin (Mason Greyback) reunited to quiz each other on some trivia from the show, and these questions are sending us right back to 2010.
In the video - which was posted to Sulkin's joint YouTube channel with fellow actor Cameron Fuller on Aug. 2 - Sulkin, Henrie, and Stone touched on some of the show's key episodes (the Shakira cameo) and most memorable spells while revealing some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments from the day filming wrapped. The reunion also included a fun TikTok snippet of the trio recreating that crazy, funky, junky moment, and we couldn't help but sing along. Watch the full video to quiz yourself on your Wizards of Waverly Place knowledge and see how well the cast did here.
What Is the Families First Coronavirus Response Act? Here's Everything You Need to Know
In March, most U.S. schools (and many childcare facilities) made the swift and necessary decision to close their doors and send kids home to shelter in place with their families. Now, with the new school year quickly approaching, families have to make some pretty tough decisions regarding school and daycare. What if their child's school closes because of an outbreak? What if their child's daycare still hasn't reopened? What if they or their child begins showing COVID-19 symptoms and can't go to work or school?
In an attempt to address these and many similar questions, the Department of Labor enacted the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This act ensures that parents dealing with COVID-related issues can still be paid even if they aren't able to report to work. Here's what you need to know about the act, what is covered, and who is eligible to receive benefits.
What Is the Families First Coronavirus Response Act?
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) provides qualified employees with paid leave benefits if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, caring for a household member who is experiencing symptoms, or because their child's school or daycare is closed for reasons related to coronavirus. The act was put into effect on April 2, 2020, not long after schools and childcare providers throughout the U.S. closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. With many schools and daycares in the process of reopening, however, it's important that families are familiar with the FFCRA should they need it.
What Does the Families First Coronavirus Response Act Cover?
There are two main categories of leave covered by the FFCRA – sick leave and family and medical leave. Qualified employees are eligible for two weeks (up to 80 hours total) of paid sick leave at their full rate of pay if they are unable to work because they've been instructed to quarantine, or they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and actively seeking medical care. Employees may also be eligible for two weeks (up to 80 hours total) of paid sick leave at two-thirds their regular pay rate if they are caring for an individual who is under quarantine or if their child's school or daycare is closed for COVID-related reasons.
The second category is an amendment to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) that provides employees with up to 10 weeks of paid leave at two-thirds the employee's regular pay rate if they are unable to work in order to care for a child whose school or daycare is closed due to COVID-19. This is in contrast to traditional FMLA, which is typically unpaid and requires 12 months of employment for eligibility.
Who Is Eligible For the Families First Coronavirus Response Act?
All full-time and part-time employees of covered employers are eligible for the two weeks of paid sick leave, but only those who have been with a company for 30 days or more are eligible for the additional paid family leave. Per the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a "covered employer" includes most businesses with fewer than 500 employees, though businesses with fewer than 50 employees may be eligible for an exemption.
How Do I Take Advantage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act?
If you are experiencing a situation that you believe falls under the FFCRA eligibility guidelines, it is recommended that you speak with your employer (the HR department would be a good place to start) as soon as possible to alert them to the reason for your leave and how long you may be absent from work. Under the act, employees must provide their employer with information on the dates of their leave, how long they plan to be absent, the name of their child's school or child care provider (if applicable), and other pertinent information as necessary. Currently, the FFCRA is in effect through December 31, 2020.
How Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev's Love Story Started on Live TV
Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev are officially parents! They welcomed their first son on July 31 (incidentally, only a day before her twin sister also had a son!). The new parents have had a whirlwind romance, only having been officially dating for about a year and a half, but they first met years earlier - and they can thank reality TV for introducing them.
Back in 2017, Nikki and Artem met when they were paired up on season 25 of Dancing with the Stars. They made it through seven weeks of competition before being eliminated, landing in a tie for 7th place overall. At the time, Nikki was actually still engaged to her ex, fellow wrestler John Cena. Nikki even told E! News that she wanted Artem to teach her and Cena for their first dance at their wedding. "Well, if John's going to be up for it, taking some dance lessons, I'm sure we can figure something out," Artem joked back.
Of course, we all know that wedding never actually happened: Nikki and Cena broke up for good in July 2018, after six years of an on-and-off relationship. In December of that year, Nikki talked to Us Weekly about singledom and seemed to indicate that she was single at the time. "It's hard being a single girl. Over the holidays, I'm really looking forward to wandering into some bars and being a single girl."
By the beginning of 2019, however, the rumor mill had shifted gears, and reports circulated that Nikki had actually been dating Artem for longer than anyone thought. A source told Us Weekly in early January 2019 that the couple had been dating "for a while" at that point. Nikki continued to say that they were friends and nothing more, at least for a couple of months.
That lasted until the airing of a March 2019 episode of Total Bellas that confirmed their relationship. "I have this new level of excitement. I'm just having a lot of fun. And I feel like, the first time ever, I'm focusing on me. It's crazy. I never in my life would've thought that, like, I would've had a lot in common with a Russian," Nikki said in the episode. "I'm ready to really explore new things and people and just really see what certain chemistries are all about." After the episode aired, Nikki shared a cute photo to Instagram, featuring her planting a kiss on his cheek. "Well after that season finale. First thing I'll be talking about this Wednesday..." she captioned the photo. They continued documenting their relationship in public, especially on The Bellas Podcast, which Nikki hosts with her twin sister Brie.
They revealed their engagement in a January 2020 Instagram post, where Nikki also revealed that they actually had gotten engaged two months earlier, while in France in November 2019. Only a few weeks after sharing their engagement news, they also revealed that they were expecting their first child.
Yes, Please! Justin, Harper, and Mason From Wizards of Waverly Place Had a Magical Reunion
If you've ever stepped into a subway shop around lunch time and secretly wondered if a family of wizards lives upstairs, you probably grew up watching Wizards of Waverly Place on Disney Channel. Eight years after the final Russo family battle, David Henrie (Justin Russo), Jennifer Stone (Harper Finkle), and Gregg Sulkin (Mason Greyback) reunited to quiz each other on some trivia from the show, and these questions are sending us right back to 2010.
In the video - which was posted to Sulkin's joint YouTube channel with fellow actor Cameron Fuller on Aug. 2 - Sulkin, Henrie, and Stone touched on some of the show's key episodes (the Shakira cameo) and most memorable spells while revealing some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments from the day filming wrapped. The reunion also included a fun TikTok snippet of the trio recreating that crazy, funky, junky moment, and we couldn't help but sing along. Watch the full video to quiz yourself on your Wizards of Waverly Place knowledge and see how well the cast did here.
New Trader Joe's Products You Need to Put on Your Grocery List ASAP
If there's anything better than Trader Joe's products, it's new Trader Joe's products. In 2019, the store shook things up with a bunch of fantastic new food items in seemingly every department. The real question is, can 2020 top it all? So far, we think the answer's yes. From cheddar garlic focaccia bread to kale gnocchi, juice shots to keep you healthy, and more, you'll know what you want before heading out the door. Here's a roundup of the can't-miss newbies from Trader Joe's so far this year. Trust us, they're so appetizing, you'll want to eat every little thing.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes, Sara Bacon, and Hajar Larbah
Prices and products may vary by Trader Joe's location.
lundi 3 août 2020
I May Destroy You Captures the Complexity of Sexual Trauma in Ways Few Shows Do
Warning: this essay contains a detailed account of sexual assault that may be triggering for those who have experienced trauma.
As a survivor of sexual violence, I'm sometimes hesitant to watch TV shows like I May Destroy You. Accurate depictions of assault can trigger painful memories of my own attack - and, conversely, I feel angry when subpar movies and shows perpetuate myths about sexual trauma and gloss over the confusing, nonlinear path that survivors navigate in the aftermath of sexual abuse. But after learning that I May Destroy You is based on the experience of Michaela Coel - who is the writer, director, producer, and star of the series - I decided to give it a try. It's not an easy show to watch, but I May Destroy You provides the most accurate, unflinching portrayal of sexual trauma that I've seen.
My own rape bears some similarities to Arabella's. I hadn't planned on going out that evening and, when I agreed to meet up with a friend, I told myself I would be home in bed by midnight. At 3 a.m. I was jolted into consciousness by a stabbing pain, tears already streaming down my face. I was in a dark bedroom that I'd never seen before, and I recognized the man who was on top of me and inside me; I'd met him earlier that evening in a packed bar where he and his roommate bought drinks for my friend and me. I tried to fight back, but it only made him angrier and more violent. Exhausted, weak, and scared, I stopped resisting.
I immediately knew I'd been raped but, like Arabella, my memories of that night came back in fragments and often at unexpected (and inconvenient) times. The flashbacks were vivid - the sudden, frightening realization that my friend was gone and I was alone with someone I'd just met and didn't trust. The nervous laughter when he moved in to kiss me, and the sense of dread when he ignored my cues that I wasn't interested. Being pushed into his bedroom, then onto his bed. Feeling my clothes torn off as I repeatedly asked, then begged, for him to stop and let me leave.
Because I was either semiconscious or unconscious for at least some portion of the night, I sometimes questioned if my memories were accurate. While Arabella researches the science of fake memories, I wondered if any of my recollections came from my nightmares rather than the attack itself. I May Destroy You adeptly shows what it's like to have a crime committed against you and then to suffer the additional indignity of not even knowing the details of the event that has profoundly impacted your life.
When Arabella speaks with police, she remains calm and somewhat emotionally detached until the very end of the interview, when she breaks down in tears. It reminded me of how I didn't feel much of anything for weeks after my rape - something that understandably confused my friends because, in general, I'm an emotional person. I met up with a good friend for lunch the next day, and she recalls asking me what I'd done the night before. "Well, it kind of sucked. I was raped," I responded in a monotone voice, as though I'd lost my phone or been inconvenienced in some harmless way. I didn't cry until I sought medical treatment at Planned Parenthood. Then I left with Plan B and a 28-day course of antiretrovirals and attempted to get back to business as usual.
Related: Michaela Coel Shares Her Real-Life Experiences That Inspired I May Destroy You
Like many survivors, Arabella and I had to piece together what had happened on that awful night. But there's also the matter of sorting out what our futures will look like. While trauma often makes it difficult to function, life doesn't simply stop when you've been raped. Battling flashbacks and struggling to concentrate, Arabella still has a deadline to meet and a maxed out credit card that requires her to take on a second job. As the reality of my assault set in, I couldn't eat or sleep, and I lost my ability to focus on anything, whether it was my writing or simply watching a movie.
I felt perpetually hazy, but I didn't miss work. I increased the number of hours per week I spent volunteering for two political campaigns and spent time with friends. Continuing my career was a financial necessity, but the volunteer work and socializing was my way of avoiding being alone with my thoughts. As Arabella tells her therapist in an early session, she tries to cope by not thinking about "it" too much and not spending time alone.
The series encapsulates the experiences of many survivors, including my own, and shows that the fear and degradation experienced during an assault doesn't end when we escape from our attacker.
Eventually, of course, I had to face the reality that I had PTSD and my symptoms weren't going to just disappear, no matter how many hours I spent distracting myself from what had happened. I'm no stranger to therapy - I worked with therapists to cope with childhood trauma and was hospitalized multiple times for an eating disorder during my teens and early 20s. But this time around, I found the most solace in connecting with other survivors. I joined private support groups on social media, connected in person with survivors in my city, and eventually decided to share my story publicly with the goal of raising awareness and (hopefully) helping other survivors feel less alone. In the "Me Too" era, open conversations about sexual violence have become less taboo - something that's depicted in I May Destroy You. For example, Arabella is listening to a podcast when she realizes that Zain removing a condom during sex without her consent wasn't just wrong - under UK law, it was sexual assault. Later, she bonds with other survivors.
Although Arabella's storyline is the one that resonates most with me personally, I May Destroy You also addresses a plethora of other important issues surrounding sexual assault, consent, and how victims are treated by law enforcement. Kwame's rape and the police's callous dismissal of his trauma shows the additional stigma inflicted upon male survivors and those in the LGBTQ+ community. Then there's Terry's sexual encounter with two men who deceive and manipulate her by saying they only just met. They gain her consent through false pretenses, and the conspiratorial looks exchanged by the men are chilling and make clear that they know exactly what they're doing.
Although it has its moments of levity, I May Destroy You is often painful and uncomfortable to watch - and that's exactly why it's so realistic. The series encapsulates the experiences of many survivors, including my own and shows that the fear and degradation experienced during an assault doesn't end when we escape from our attacker. There may be profound relief and gratitude to be alive, but it's often accompanied by years of frightening flashbacks, shame, and anxiety.
If you or someone you love are experiencing signs or symptoms of post-traumatic stress and need help, the National Alliance on Mental Illness has resources and a helpline (1-800-950-6264).
18 Million Thanks Aims to Send a Thank You Card to Every Healthcare Worker in the US
When's the last time you sent a snail-mail thank-you note? For some, these handwritten cards are reminiscent of grade-school birthday parties and wedding celebrations. But a new campaign spearheaded by 13 women-led small stationery companies aims to bring the thank-you note back in a big way. The initiative is called 18 Million Thanks, and its goal is an ambitious one: to send a handwritten thank you note to all 18 million healthcare workers in the United States.
"COVID and the racial reckoning throughout this country right now have made a lot of things feel very trivial, but this industry and campaign offer one of the few things that remain relevant: honest, meaningful connection," Ali O'Grady, the CEO of eco-friendly greeting card company Thoughtful Human and a participant in the campaign, told POPSUGAR. "While we were all quick to rally around healthcare heroes during weeks one, two, and three, 18 Million Thanks reminds us that the challenges for frontline workers persist month after month."
"While we were all quick to rally around healthcare heroes during weeks one, two, and three, 18 Million Thanks reminds us that the challenges for frontline workers persist month after month."
The 18 Million Thanks campaign is the brainchild of Good Juju Ink, a California-based greeting card company led by illustrator Juliana Tyson Kissick. The premise is simple: participants are asked to either purchase a thank-you card from one of the campaign's small stationery companies, or make their own at home. They can then write a message of thanks to a healthcare worker in their own life, or address their note to an employee at one of the campaign's 63 participating hospitals in the US and Canada.
"When I read their letters, I often get very emotional, and it reaffirms why I went into medicine," Stephen Benirschke, MD, of Seattle, WA, wrote in a testimony on the campaign's website. "There is nothing more satisfying for a physician to be able to care for someone who is having a difficult time and knowing that their life is a little bit better because of what we do."
The goals of this campaign extend beyond just sending cards. Ryan Kissick, the head of operations and business development for Good Juju Ink, explained that the initiative also aims to support small stationery companies and provide a meaningful activity for families who are spending more time at home.
"To me, it's less about exactly hitting 18 million and [more about] just knowing that we're having momentum," Kissick told POPSUGAR. However, participants need not buy a card from one of the campaign's member organizations in order to participate: results are being tallied by cards sent, not cards sold. "We didn't want to make it commercially based because we want people to participate even if they want to write a letter from home," he said.
So far, the initiative has sent just under 14,000 cards, many of them through the United States Postal Service. Kissick added that supporting the postal service through its bureaucratic struggles is another goal of the campaign. "In the stationery industry, we know what a vital role USPS plays in this ecosystem and how much we appreciate the postal workers," he said. "If we can do even a small part in raising more money to help keep USPS going and contribute to their success, that would be awesome as well."
Recently, the campaign set a short-term goal of sending 18,000 letters by August 31. This goal, called 18K for 18 Million Thanks, is paired with a fundraising goal of $18,000 to support mental healthcare for BIPOC frontline workers. To participate, you can make a donation to First Responders First and check out the 18 Million Thanks website to learn how to send a snail-mail thank-you note.
"I am hoping that this simple kind act of sending a note can be continued for years to come," said campaign participant Lisa Sarmento, the CEO of Tiramisu Paperie. "A thank-you note does more than any email, text, or phone call can do. Taking that time to sit down and write a note . . . it's priceless."
If Your Workouts Look Different Every Day, This 10-Minute Cooldown Is For You
No two days are alike when it comes to my fitness routine, except for my cooldowns. Since I rotate between barre, Pilates, yoga, and jogs to prevent workout boredom, I need a one-size-fits-all cooldown to keep me feeling good.
"Simplicity is the key [to any cooldown]," Holly Strickland - a NASM-certified personal trainer and franchise partner with Burn Boot Camp Naples - says. In her opinion, it only takes 5-10 minutes to help with recovery, soreness, and injury prevention.
That's why the expert's 10-minute cooldown plan is my go-to - there are really no excuses as to why I can't make time to do it after any sweat. Strickland says it can be used for anything from running to leg day.
"During this portion of the workout, we are slowing [the] heart rate down and stretching out the muscles we used during the workout," Strickland explains.
See for yourself how effective, easy, and adaptable Strickland's cooldown is by completing one to two rounds of the stretching routine, ahead. Spend 45-90 seconds on each movement with no rests in-between - unless your body starts telling you otherwise.
Related: Not Sure How to Cool Down After a Workout? Try These Follow-Along Videos to Ease Tension
If Your Workouts Look Different Every Day, This 10-Minute Cooldown Is For You
No two days are alike when it comes to my fitness routine, except for my cooldowns. Since I rotate between barre, Pilates, yoga, and jogs to prevent workout boredom, I need a one-size-fits-all cooldown to keep me feeling good.
"Simplicity is the key [to any cooldown]," Holly Strickland - a NASM-certified personal trainer and franchise partner with Burn Boot Camp Naples - says. In her opinion, it only takes 5-10 minutes to help with recovery, soreness, and injury prevention.
That's why the expert's 10-minute cooldown plan is my go-to - there are really no excuses as to why I can't make time to do it after any sweat. Strickland says it can be used for anything from running to leg day.
"During this portion of the workout, we are slowing [the] heart rate down and stretching out the muscles we used during the workout," Strickland explains.
See for yourself how effective, easy, and adaptable Strickland's cooldown is by completing one to two rounds of the stretching routine, ahead. Spend 45-90 seconds on each movement with no rests in-between - unless your body starts telling you otherwise.
Related: Not Sure How to Cool Down After a Workout? Try These Follow-Along Videos to Ease Tension
Hold Onto the Side of the Pool For This 10-Minute Kicking Workout
Your backyard pool might not be anywhere near 25-meters in length, have lane lines, or even be suited up with training equipment, but that doesn't mean you can't get in a challenging (and joint-friendly) kicking workout - it's all about shifting your perspective and getting creative.
Don't have a kickboard? Diana Pimer, an Asphalt Green Unified Aquatics Coach, says there are actually a few different methods you can use to kick - one of which is kicking while holding onto the side of the pool.
"I like to think that kicking requires a forgiving resistance from the water," Pimer says of the workout method, mentioning you can use it as active recovery or as a main form of exercise. "You are still working against an opposing force to get a workout in, but it is considerably easier on the joints than running or weightlifting."
After you've warmed up, give this 10-minute workout curated by Pimer a go. "For wall kicking, you should definitely switch things up as you go - in swimming it is easy to get repetitive and lose focus. Alternate between flutter kicks and frog kicks [or breaststroke kicks], as well as easy and fast." Pimer says.
During the flutter-kicking portion, Pimer says the legs should be straight with the toes pointed and a slight bend in the knee. "When doing easy flutter kicks, try not to make a splash. You should feel the water moving on both sides of your legs and feet."
For the fast flutter kick sets, Pimer notes it's natural to create some splash behind you, as you're "moving your legs and feet faster at the surface of the water."
Finally, when performing frog/breaststroke kicks, Primer says to "snap your feet together toward the surface of the water on the completion of each kick."
Remember to take rest as indicated - or as you need - throughout this 10-minute kicking workout.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at an easy pace.
- 10 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at an easy pace.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at an easy pace.
- 30 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at an easy pace.
- 40 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest as needed.
- 20 seconds frog kick at an easy pace.
- 40 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds frog kick at an easy pace.
- 30 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds frog kick at an easy pace.
- 20 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest for 20-30 seconds.
- 20 seconds frog kick at an easy pace.
- 10 seconds flutter kick at a fast pace.
- Rest as needed.
Whether you're continuing with your workout or hopping out of the pool, be sure to give yourself a few minutes to properly cool down and stretch after you're finished exercising.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
Here's How to Make the Best of Your Outdoor Summer Workout When You Live in a City
A jog around my neighborhood means stopping at every intersection, encountering overcrowded parks, and feeling convinced that cool breezes are extinct - these are the realities I experience while exercising outdoors in New York City all summer long.
To top things off, 2020 tacks on the added responsibilities of social distancing and wearing a mask in public. (Learn how to safely exercise outside, here.)
These factors aren't stopping me from enjoying my summer workouts outdoors, though. Eugene Moore - a NASM-certified personal trainer associated with Blink Fitness - is making the best of his situation, too, by prioritizing moves he often neglected with access to advanced gym equipment.
For one, public resources are helping Moore spice up some of his current go-to exercises like lunges and push-ups - benches especially.
"[Public benches] can be used for incline push-ups if you're a novice or decline push-ups if you're more advanced. They can also be used for step-up, split-squat variations, and dips," he says.
Don't count out your local playground, either - Moore adds that the monkey bars can double as a pull-up bar in a pinch.
You can also use public staircases to add an incline to push-ups or squats for a high-intensity sweat, and while you're there, try jogging or walking up and down the stairs for cardio.
Luckily for Moore, his outdoor cardio options are a lot dreamier than a staircase.
Although the Californian lives in a city, he has no problem accessing a beach path for running and cycling. When that's not an option, Moore picks a large city block to run around like a track, which solves that intersection interruption problem I mentioned earlier.
But, we still haven't addressed the elephant in the room: public crowds. It's a frustrating reality of city living - especially in 2020.
When parks, bike trails, and neighborhood streets get too hectic, Moore's solution is to set up in an empty parking lot or open field (safe ones!). Because these areas don't have amenities, they attract fewer crowds.
In these circumstances, he boosts his workout with portable fitness gear, like jump ropes and resistance bands, to get an effective sweat in.
"With [resistance bands], you can replicate many of the exercises you do at the gym with barbells and dumbbells. Major compound movements like deadlifts, squats, and presses can all be performed with resistance bands," he says. And what about the brutal summer heat? It goes without saying that it's so important to work out in the shade and drink plenty of water.
In addition to those tactics, Moore is all about hyping yourself up.
"Psychologically, I've convinced myself that I'm getting more out of my workout when I'm breaking a sweat in the summer heat," he says.
If you're in New York City and happen to see a woman running up and down shaded stairs giving herself a major pep talk and chugging water - you can assume that's me. Feel free to wave.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
16 Kid-Friendly Smoothie Recipes Packed With Fruits and Veggies
One of the best ways to get picky eaters to eat their vegetables - and even their fruits - is to blend them into a smoothie. Not only does combining the flavors with some milk and a little bit of sweetness make them into a supertasty breakfast or snack, but they also become the perfect on-the-go food.
For all the busy parents short on time, these kid-friendly smoothie recipes are for you. They come together in just minutes, and you can throw them in a cup with a lid for your kid to have on the way to school or to an afternoon play date. Keep reading for more than a dozen recipes to try with your little ones.
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