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.
mardi 18 août 2020
40 Incredibly Stylish Modern Farmhouse Decor Pieces That All Cost Less Than $100
Our modern farmhouse fever isn't cooling off anytime soon, and while we might not be ready to nail shiplap over our drywall or splurge on custom barn doors, we'll jump at the chance to snatch up decorative pieces that capture the simple, earthy aesthetic that we just can't get enough of.
To help you find the best options you can shop online that won't break the bank, we did the shopping for you at some of our favorite affordable home retailers. Ahead, you can shop 40 cool pieces that'll transform your home without having to do a whole remodel. The best part: everything costs less than $100, so can snag a few things. Keep reading to shop it all and snag the ones you love.
- Additional Reporting by Angela Elias
No, You're Not Dreaming: Dole Whip Beer Is Real, and It's Made With Actual Pineapples
You can add Dole Whip Sour Beer to the list of things we didn't know we needed (and didn't ask for) in 2020. As we're craving some of our fave Disney treats from afar, this boozy beverage rolls in to fill the soft-serve-shaped hole in our hearts. The clever minds at First Magnitude Brewing Co. in Florida concocted a beer using Dole Whip mix and real pineapple for a tropical taste bud trip - and the six-percent ABV isn't too shabby either.
If this drink sounds right up your alley, I have good and bad news. The sad news? The buzz around this creation spread quickly, and the Dole Whip Beer sold out in a flash. The good news? Although First Magnitude has no immediate plans to restock, they told POPSUGAR the drink will "surely be back at some point." We'll take what we can get! For now, we'll resort to refreshing the brand's Instagram page for more updates. Would you say cheers to a Dole Whip Beer?
Ashley Tisdale Says Having Her Breast Implants Removed Made Her Finally Feel "Fully Me"
Ashley Tisdale just opened up about getting her breast implants removed in "probably the most personal post [she's] ever shared." In an Instagram shared on Monday announcing the launch of Frenshe, her new beauty and wellness website, Tisdale revealed that she underwent breast enhancement surgery years ago, but removed her implants last winter after suspecting they had caused minor health issues.
"I constantly felt my body was less than, and thought this change would make me feel more whole and more secure about myself."
"Prior to the surgery, I constantly felt my body was less than, and thought this change would make me feel more whole and more secure about myself," she said of going through with breast enhancement surgery. "And for a short period of time. . . it did. But little by little I began struggling with minor health issues that just were not adding up - food sensitivities as well as gut issues (full story on @frenshe) that I thought could be caused by my implants." The singer, who's always been candid about her anxiety and mental health struggles, explained that meeting with holistic and nonholistic doctors over the years inspired the creation of Frenshe.
Tisdale also continued on to share that the journey of removing her implants "has been one of growth, self discovery, self acceptance and most importantly self-love." She explained her accompanying Instagram photo, where she's shown relaxing on the beach, was taken two months after her explant surgery. "I think you can tell just how happy I am to finally be fully me." Check out Tisdale's honest post in full below, and hop over to Frenshe to learn more about her new wellness venture.
10 Dietitians to Follow on TikTok For a FYP That Will Help Heal Your Relationship With Food
While it may not hold true for every piece of content that graces the platform, it's hard argue that TikTok doesn't promote wellness in a number of ways. From its inherently communal setup to the ubiquitous sharing of skin care routines, fitness regimens, and unfiltered content about mental health, TikTok remains a popular medium for self-care (subconscious or otherwise).
It's no surprise then that there's quite a large collective of registered dietitians on TikTok who are constantly promoting healthy eating, healthy living, and an all-around positive relationship with food. We've compiled a list of dietitians to follow on TikTok for bonafide tips, tricks, and inspiration to be your healthiest, happiest self.
No, You're Not Dreaming: Dole Whip Beer Is Real, and It's Made With Actual Pineapples
You can add Dole Whip Sour Beer to the list of things we didn't know we needed (and didn't ask for) in 2020. As we're craving some of our fave Disney treats from afar, this boozy beverage rolls in to fill the soft-serve shaped hole in our hearts. The clever minds at First Magnitude Brewing Co. in Florida concocted a beer using Dole Whip mix and real pineapple for a tropical tastebud trip - and the six-percent ABV isn't too shabby either.
If this drink sounds right up your alley, I have good and bad news. The sad news? The buzz around this creation spread quickly, and the Dole Whip beer sold out in a flash. The good news? Although First Magnitude has no immediate plans to restock, they told POPSUGAR the drink will "surely be back at some point." We'll take what we can get! For now, we'll resort to refreshing the brand's Instagram page for more updates. Would you say cheers to a Dole Whip Beer?
No, You're Not Dreaming: Dole Whip Beer Is Real, and It's Made With Actual Pineapples
You can add Dole Whip Sour Beer to the list of things we didn't know we needed (and didn't ask for) in 2020. As we're craving some of our fave Disney treats from afar, this boozy beverage rolls in to fill the soft-serve shaped hole in our hearts. The clever minds at First Magnitude Brewing Co. in Florida concocted a beer using Dole Whip mix and real pineapple for a tropical tastebud trip - and the six-percent ABV isn't too shabby either.
If this drink sounds right up your alley, I have good and bad news. The sad news? The buzz around this creation spread quickly, and the Dole Whip beer sold out in a flash. The good news? Although First Magnitude has no immediate plans to restock, they told POPSUGAR the drink will "surely be back at some point." We'll take what we can get! For now, we'll resort to refreshing the brand's Instagram page for more updates. Would you say cheers to a Dole Whip Beer?
Ashley Tisdale Says Having Her Breast Implants Removed Made Her Finally Feel “Fully Me”
Ashley Tisdale just opened up about getting her breast implants removed in "probably the most personal post [she's] ever shared." In an Instagram announcing the launch of Frenshe, her new beauty and wellness website, Tisdale revealed on Monday that she underwent breast enhancement surgery years ago, but removed her implants last winter after suspecting they had caused minor health issues.
"I constantly felt my body was less than, and thought this change would make me feel more whole and more secure about myself."
"Prior to the surgery, I constantly felt my body was less than, and thought this change would make me feel more whole and more secure about myself," she said, of going through with breast enhancement surgery. "And for a short period of time. . . it did. But little by little I began struggling with minor health issues that just were not adding up - food sensitivities as well as gut issues (full story on @frenshe) that I thought could be caused by my implants." The singer, who's always been candid about her anxiety and mental health struggles, explained that meeting with holistic and non-holistic doctors over the years inspired the creation of Frenshe.
Tisdale also continued on to share that the journey of removing her implants "has been one of growth, self discovery, self acceptance and most importantly self-love." She explained her accompanying Instagram photo, where she's shown relaxing on the beach, was taken two months after her explant surgery. "I think you can tell just how happy I am to finally be fully me." Check out Tisdale's honest post in full below, and hop over to Frenshe to learn more about her new wellness venture.
10 Dietitians to Follow on TikTok For a FYP That Will Help Heal Your Relationship With Food
While it may not hold true for every piece of content that graces the platform, it's hard argue that TikTok doesn't promote wellness in a number of ways. From its inherently communal setup to the ubiquitous sharing of skin care routines, fitness regimens, and unfiltered content about mental health, TikTok remains a popular medium for self-care (subconscious or otherwise).
It's no surprise then that there's quite a large collective of registered dietitians on TikTok who are constantly promoting healthy eating, healthy living, and an all-around positive relationship with food. We've compiled a list of dietitians to follow on TikTok for bonafide tips, tricks, and inspiration to be your healthiest, happiest self.
Strengthen and Sculpt Your Back and Shoulders With This 20-Minute At-Home Dumbbell Blast
If you have minimal equipment and time, you're probably in need of workouts that are both efficient and effective. If so, we've got you covered. Kelsey Wells, NASM-certified, SWEAT trainer, and creator of the PWR workout programs just expanded her program and launched PWR At Home 3.0, and it's great for those looking for ways to work out at home.
If you're not familiar with Wells's programs, PWR is all about learning how to strength train and helping you get stronger and build muscle. With the addition of the 3.0 program, people now have access to 40 weeks of at-home workouts! If you want to get a feel for Wells's style of training, she created this 20-minute shoulders and back workout, and we think you're going to love it.
"This targeted back and shoulder workout includes a combination of compound and isolated work for a well-rounded back and shoulder session," Wells told POPSUGAR. Her 20-minute workout will help you gain strength in your back and shoulders and will even help you improve your posture. No matter your fitness level, Wells advised always focusing on your technique and having controlled speed of movement.
Kelsey Wells's 20-Minute Shoulders and Back Dumbbell Workout
Equipment needed: a yoga mat and two light- to medium-weight dumbbells. Here's a guide on how to choose the right weight.
Directions: Before getting started, Wells said to take a few minutes to warm up your body. She recommends doing three to five minutes of cardio such as jogging in place or skipping to increase your heart rate and get your muscles warm. If possible, Wells also recommends following the cardio with dynamic stretches such as leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists to help increase your range of motion and reduce injury.
This workout should be completed as a circuit, meaning you'll complete one round of the following exercises, taking little to no rest in between each exercise. Once you finish one round, take one minute of rest and then repeat for a total of three rounds. If you need water, feel free to take a few sips in between each exercise or during your rest. If you need to rest longer than one minute, feel free to do so.
Once you've finished the workout, cool down with three to five minutes of walking to lower your heart rate back to the resting rate. Wells also recommends completing a few static stretches to lengthen your muscles and increase your flexibility and range of motion.
- YTW: eight reps
- Bent-over row: 12 reps
- Curl and press: 10 reps
- Side to front raise: 10 reps
- Alternating shoulder press: 20 reps (10 reps each arm)
- Bent-over reverse fly: 12 reps
I Tried 6 K-Pop Beauty Looks, and It Was Easier to Re-Create at Home Than It Looks
I love trying to re-create things my favorite stars wear. The keyword here is "try." I'll preface this whole thing by saying my makeup skills are subpar at best. I wear the same makeup pretty much every day, except I rotate lipsticks. That being said, I love trying to mimic the makeup looks other people do, which is what I did here with some of the K-pop stars I love.
I took six of my favorite looks - many of them very easy to do at home - and tried them for myself. I gave you instructions and products to try on your own, and best of all, it's all very, very easy to re-create no matter your skill level. Don't worry if you don't know how to do a cut crease or the perfect winged liner - I don't either. If you do know how to do those things, by all means, take this tutorial and jazz it up how you see fit, but if your makeup skills are as basic as mine, join me on this journey of re-creation.
lundi 17 août 2020
Everything You Need to Know About Voting by Mail Versus Absentee Voting
With many people still keeping their distance at home, voting this year is going to work a little differently. Think less in-person polling, long lines, and crowded areas; more remote voting that can be done from the comfort (and safety) of your own space. Things are changing quickly, and in order to allow more voters to stay home on election day, certain states have even modified some of their voting laws, working toward a "new normal." These are huge steps towards safer voting, but the ever-evolving rules and voting terminology can become confusing quickly.
Thankfully, despite the recent push to vote more remotely, not everything is new. In fact, there have always been different ways to vote from home depending on the state you live in. These options are most commonly referred to as "absentee voting" and "voting by mail," but their differences are pretty convoluted. To provide some clarification and help you decide which method you might prefer, we broke down all the basics (and you can go here to quickly see any discrepancies in your own state).
What Is Absentee Voting?
"Absentee voting" is commonly used to describe a ballot that is mailed in when the voter in question can't make it to a polling place in person. Historically, this option was only used in specific circumstances, like if a voter was serving in the military or had become sick on election day, but this is no longer the case.
These days, you can request an absentee ballot in any state, and a total of 35 states allow you to request an absentee ballot without any excuse. The remaining states do require valid excuses, but many have changed their absentee policies for the 2020 elections, making it easier for people to cast their votes from home for any reason. You can go here to find out if there have been any recent changes to the absentee voting laws in your state.
What Is Voting by Mail?
"Voting by mail" and "mail-in voting" are relatively vague terms that differ in meaning depending on where you are. For some, it's a simple way to refer to any and all ballots cast by mail. For others, it's a more specific descriptor for any absentee ballot cast by a person who is not actually physically absent or unable to vote in person.
"Voting by mail" is also sometimes used to reference states like Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, where all voters automatically receive a ballot that they can simply fill out and mail in (a method other states are also adopting for 2020 elections). While this doesn't necessarily mean that all voters have to vote through mail, it does make the option easily available to everyone in these states - no excuse or absentee application required. This type of voting is also called "all-mail voting" or "universal vote by mail."
What's the Difference?
The truth is that the specific differences between these two types of voting vary based on the state and the person referring to them. More generally, the main difference between these voting processes is that absentee voting typically requires an excuse (or at least some kind of application), and voting by mail does not. Again, "voting by mail" can mean different things in different states, but it typically describes a ballot that is received without an application and cast through the mail without any major excuses or special circumstances.
How Can I Vote?
Deciding how to vote in this election is a highly personal choice that will depend on your state voting laws and any changes that have been made as a result of the pandemic. To cast an absentee ballot in a state that requires an excuse, you can find your state or local election office website here to see what excuses are considered valid. Some states are taking COVID-19 related concerns as valid excuses, and others have rescinded the need for excuses altogether for 2020 elections. Make sure to check your state's most recent voting laws.
To cast an absentee ballot in a state that doesn't require an excuse, just fill out an absentee ballot application by your state's deadline (which can be found here) and either submit it through the mail or drop it off in person at an appropriate polling site.
If you choose to vote by mail using the ballot sent to you by your state, simply fill out and submit the ballot you receive by your state's deadline (which is the same as the deadline for absentee ballots, found here). Most states also allow for early voting, and there are plenty of additional resources with more information about when early voting starts in your state.
Additionally, in-person polls will still be available in some states, but they will be expected to follow CDC guidelines. Ultimately, no matter how you decide to cast your vote, the most important thing is that you're letting your voice be heard and staying safe in the process. Check your state's current voting laws and see what works best for you.
5 Core Exercises That’ll Help You Balance Better on Your Paddleboard
Thanks to classic core conditioning exercises like planks and ab twists, you can boost your paddleboarding skills from the comfort of your own living room - or wherever you set down your workout mat.
"True core stability is being able to move your extremities without moving your hips - paddling, while balancing on a board, is that exact definition in practice," Heather Gunn Rivera, a NASM-certified personal trainer and co-owner of Grassroots Fitness Project, says.
So, if balance (and the fear of falling off your board into the water) is the main issue keeping you off a paddleboard, it's not a bad idea to boost your core strength. Targeting your core will also help you produce more power, Rivera says.
You can get started by adding these exercises to your workout routine. After completing the warmup ahead, Rivera suggests stringing them together to create a 10-minute EMOM circuit.
Warmup
- 10 Inchworms
- 10 Cat-Cows
- 10 Thread the Needles
- 30 seconds: Extended Puppy Pose
10-Minute EMOM, or Every Minute on the Minute
Each exercise starts on the minute, and while Rivera says the rest is built in, you should always listen to your own body and take rest as needed. Perform the exercises ahead in order, and then repeat for a second circuit to total 10 minutes.
- Planks: Hold for 45 seconds
- Superman: Hold for 45 seconds
- Side Plank: Hold for 30 seconds per side
- Ab Twists: Perform for 30 seconds
- Single Arm Long Arm Planks: Hold for 30 seconds per side
Cooldown
- 30 seconds Child Pose
- 30 seconds Cobra Pose
- 30 seconds Downward Dog
- 30 seconds Forward Fold
When It Comes to Push-Up Modifications, Elevated Push-Ups Reign Supreme
I'm a push-up pessimist through and through. Wrist pain from an injury makes traditional push-ups, well, unpleasant - and don't even get me started about knee push-ups.
We've all heard it before: knee push-ups are great for people who struggle with regular push-ups due to either strength or injury limitations - these words came straight from ACE-certified personal trainer Margie Clegg herself.
"With a person's knees on the floor, the body lever is shortened, reducing the amount of resistance a person has to overcome."
But, easier doesn't always equal pain-free.
During a regular push-up, Clegg says you're bracing your core, glutes, shoulders, and hips - but knee push-ups take the core and glutes out of the equation, which can encourage the hips to sag and cause lower-back pain.
According to Clegg, knee push-ups can also add stress to your elbows, wrists, and particularly the shoulders: "People tend to lead with their elbows, causing them to flare out."
While you may only feel mild pain in your front shoulder from this at first, Clegg notes that your discomfort could evolve into pain radiating from your shoulder and down your arm, or reduced range of motion. In all cases, we urge you to meet with a doctor for relief.
There is a silver lining to all the push-up frustration, though - and it's called incline push-ups, aka elevated push-ups.
Related: I'm a Trainer, and These Are the 7 Exercises You Need to Do to Master Push-Ups
"Starting with the hands elevated, you're allowing your body to be in the normal push-up position, and you can progress your hands lower and lower until you're on the ground," she says.
"It's easier than progressing from your knees to a regular push-up, as there's a pretty good gap of strength to get from your knees to your toes."
Before jumping in, squeeze in a dynamic warmup to get the blood flowing and help prevent injury - if you're feeling any pain at all, remember to stop and call your doctor.
Clegg suggests starting with arm swings by holding your arms straight out to the side, and then cross them in a swinging motion in front of your chest.
Proceed with shoulder rotations - Clegg says to hold your arms straight out to the side and move your arms in a circular motion, making bigger circles each time.
Finish off your warmup with snow angels by laying on the floor with your arms to your side. Move your arms up overhead and back like you're making a snow angel.
Now that you're feeling good, give Clegg's elevated push-ups a try - they could mend your relationship with push-ups altogether.
- To start, put your hands on an elevated surface in the push-up position.
- Make sure your chest is over the elevated surface and keep your body tight by bracing your abs, squeezing your glutes, and sending your shoulders back and down. It's important not to slump your shoulders, either.
- Drive your heels back to help keep everything engaged.
- Lower your chest to the elevated surface with your elbows at 45 degrees - keep your arms close to the body, not flared out. If you can't lower all the way to the surface, go as low as you can and work to get lower each time.
- As the incline becomes easier, move your hands to a lower surface until you're able to do a push-up on the floor.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
20 Times Taylor Zakhar Perez Had Runway-Worthy Style On and Off Set
One of the most swoon-worthy actors to grace us with their onscreen presence this year is Taylor Zakhar Perez. Not only is he stealing hearts playing Marco on the Kissing Booth 2, but he's also captured our attention with his quality Instagram posts. The actor has garnered more than 4.4 million followers by sharing behind-the-scenes photos from set, editorial photoshoots, and personal snapshots of his life while coveting some stylish threads. You'll notice after a quick scroll through his profile that Taylor has an affinity for stripes, touristy button downs, and forgetting about shirts altogether while hitting up the beach.
Without further ado, here's a roundup of the best 20 Taylor Zakhar Perez outfits.
Lovecraft Country's Aunjanue Ellis Has a 20+ Year Career Full of Amazing Movies and TV Shows
Anyone tuning into HBO's Lovecraft Country will undoubtedly recognize Aunjanue Ellis, who plays the series's Hippolyta Freeman, a family-oriented businesswoman with a penchant for watching the stars and a hunger for adventure. On a show full of monsters, both mythical and human, Hippolyta serves as the very human constant; that is until she gets involved in the messiness as well. But Hippolyta is just as bold and strong-willed as a lot of the characters Ellis has played in the past, and there have been a lot. The 51-year-old actress made her professional acting debut on the stage in 1995 and she hasn't stopped dazzling us ever since!
Her credits are a collection of well-loved characters on both the big and small screen, such as her role as the sharp, but fair Miranda Shaw on ABC's thriller series Quantico, her performance on The Book of Negroes, based on the bestselling novel by Lawrence Hill, and her iconic portrayal of Sistah Girl alongside Eddie Griffin in the action comedy film Undercover Brother. Most recently, Ellis garnered critical acclaim, universal admiration, and an Emmy Award for outstanding lead actress in a limited series for her performance on Ava DuVernay's Netflix miniseries When They See Us. Scroll ahead for a look at some of Ellis's most popular roles over the last 20-odd years.
5 Core Exercises That’ll Help You Balance Better on Your Paddleboard
Thanks to classic core conditioning exercises like planks and ab twists, you can boost your paddleboarding skills from the comfort of your own living room - or wherever you set down your workout mat.
"True core stability is being able to move your extremities without moving your hips - paddling, while balancing on a board, is that exact definition in practice," Heather Gunn Rivera, a NASM-certified personal trainer and co-owner of Grassroots Fitness Project, says.
So, if balance (and the fear of falling off your board into the water) is the main issue keeping you off a paddleboard, it's not a bad idea to boost your core strength. Targeting your core will also help you produce more power, Rivera says.
You can get started by adding these exercises to your workout routine. After completing the warmup ahead, Rivera suggests stringing them together to create a 10-minute EMOM circuit.
Warmup
- 10 Inchworms
- 10 Cat-Cows
- 10 Thread the Needles
- 30 seconds: Extended Puppy Pose
10-Minute EMOM, or Every Minute on the Minute
Each exercise starts on the minute, and while Rivera says the rest is built in, you should always listen to your own body and take rest as needed. Perform the exercises ahead in order, and then repeat for a second circuit to total 10 minutes.
- Planks: Hold for 45 seconds
- Superman: Hold for 45 seconds
- Side Plank: Hold for 30 seconds per side
- Ab Twists: Perform for 30 seconds
- Single Arm Long Arm Planks: Hold for 30 seconds per side
Cooldown
- 30 seconds Child Pose
- 30 seconds Cobra Pose
- 30 seconds Downward Dog
- 30 seconds Forward Fold
PJ Masks Is Adding 4 New Characters to the Team This Season - Meet the First!
The PJ Masks team is getting some new pajama-clad heroes - and villains - in season four! The first of four new characters, Newton Star, will make his debut in the Aug. 3 episode, titled "Asteroid Accident / All About Asteroids." In the episode, Owlette causes an asteroid accident that Gekko and Catboy then attempt to help her fix, but as it turns out, Newton is a new nighttime hero and scientist who's emerged from the outer space incident.
Newton's first two episodes will air on Disney Junior on Aug. 3 and 17, and after that, the animated show will introduce three more new characters: Munki-Gu, Octobella, and Pharaoh Boy.
Meet Newton in the clip above, and get your PJ Masks-lovers excited for the rest of season four and all of the new faces the preschool show is welcoming to the party!
Everything You Need to Know About Voting by Mail Versus Absentee Voting
With many people still keeping their distance at home, voting this year is going to work a little differently. Think less in-person polling, long lines, and crowded areas; more remote voting that can be done from the comfort (and safety) of your own space. Things are changing quickly, and in order to allow more voters to stay home on election day, certain states have even modified some of their voting laws, working toward a "new normal." These are huge steps towards safer voting, but the ever-evolving rules and voting terminology can become confusing quickly.
Thankfully, despite the recent push to vote more remotely, not everything is new. In fact, there have always been different ways to vote from home depending on the state you live in. These options are most commonly referred to as "absentee voting" and "voting by mail," but their differences are pretty convoluted. To provide some clarification and help you decide which method you might prefer, we broke down all the basics (and you can go here to quickly see any discrepancies in your own state).
What Is Absentee Voting?
"Absentee voting" is commonly used to describe a ballot that is mailed in when the voter in question can't make it to a polling place in person. Historically, this option was only used in specific circumstances, like if a voter was serving in the military or had become sick on election day, but this is no longer the case.
These days, you can request an absentee ballot in any state, and a total of 35 states allow you to request an absentee ballot without any excuse. The remaining states do require valid excuses, but many have changed their absentee policies for the 2020 elections, making it easier for people to cast their votes from home for any reason. You can go here to find out if there have been any recent changes to the absentee voting laws in your state.
What Is Voting by Mail?
"Voting by mail" and "mail-in voting" are relatively vague terms that differ in meaning depending on where you are. For some, it's a simple way to refer to any and all ballots cast by mail. For others, it's a more specific descriptor for any absentee ballot cast by a person who is not actually physically absent or unable to vote in person.
"Voting by mail" is also sometimes used to reference states like Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, where all voters automatically receive a ballot that they can simply fill out and mail in (a method other states are also adopting for 2020 elections). While this doesn't necessarily mean that all voters have to vote through mail, it does make the option easily available to everyone in these states - no excuse or absentee application required. This type of voting is also called "all-mail voting" or "universal vote by mail."
What's the Difference?
The truth is that the specific differences between these two types of voting vary based on the state and the person referring to them. More generally, the main difference between these voting processes is that absentee voting typically requires an excuse (or at least some kind of application), and voting by mail does not. Again, "voting by mail" can mean different things in different states, but it typically describes a ballot that is received without an application and cast through the mail without any major excuses or special circumstances.
How Can I Vote?
Deciding how to vote in this election is a highly personal choice that will depend on your state voting laws and any changes that have been made as a result of the pandemic. To cast an absentee ballot in a state that requires an excuse, you can find your state or local election office website here to see what excuses are considered valid. Some states are taking COVID-19 related concerns as valid excuses, and others have rescinded the need for excuses altogether for 2020 elections. Make sure to check your state's most recent voting laws.
To cast an absentee ballot in a state that doesn't require an excuse, just fill out an absentee ballot application by your state's deadline (which can be found here) and either submit it through the mail or drop it off in person at an appropriate polling site.
If you choose to vote by mail using the ballot sent to you by your state, simply fill out and submit the ballot you receive by your state's deadline (which is the same as the deadline for absentee ballots, found here). Most states also allow for early voting, and there are plenty of additional resources with more information about when early voting starts in your state.
Additionally, in-person polls will still be available in some states, but they will be expected to follow CDC guidelines. Ultimately, no matter how you decide to cast your vote, the most important thing is that you're letting your voice be heard and staying safe in the process. Check your state's current voting laws and see what works best for you.
Becoming a Mother Reminded Me That It Doesn't Matter How Others Perceive My Body
I was wholly unprepared for how much weight I would gain and how drastically my body would change during my second pregnancy. The old adage says that you are eating for two, right? (Note: This is not exactly true.) But I had certain expectations of the alterations that would beset my body from my first pregnancy. I had developed gestational diabetes, and my ob-gyn and nutritionist had put me on a rigorous carb-restrictive diet accompanied by 20 minutes of exercise after every meal in addition to my regular workout in an effort to control my blood sugar levels without medications. They held me accountable, too, asking me to keep a detailed food diary that I shared with them twice a week. The result? Sweet success, no meds, and a pretty fit post-baby body.
The second time around was entirely different. I had moved across the country and had a new doctor whose credo was less natural prevention and more medical intervention if and when needed. I surprisingly didn't develop gestational diabetes, so I allowed myself to indulge my cravings and a different pregnancy experience, despite the newfound discomfort in my body. I felt swollen, puffy, and grossly aware of every pound gained as I stepped on the scale during prenatal visits. I would sheepishly make excuses for my weight gain to the nurses who weighed me. I felt like the mere knowledge of my exact weight gave these women some mystical power over me that left me floundering in a sea of embarrassment and shame. I childishly thought that these feelings would dissipate after I gave birth.
My clothes didn't fit well anymore, my stomach was softer than it had ever been before, and I weighed the most that I ever had in my life. I worried about how I looked to my husband, to my family, and even to random strangers. A woman - a fellow mom, no less - that I met at our local neighborhood park was kind enough to ask me if I was pregnant . . . after I had given birth. She may not have realized it, but she had knocked the wind out of me. What bothered me more than anything was that her supposedly innocuous question had tapped into a deep wellspring of body image issues that stemmed from struggles with being overweight as a teenager. Through many years of running, cycling, yoga, mindfulness, and meditation, I had overcome many of these issues. I embraced my body, but more importantly, I felt healthy and comfortable in my skin.
I didn't like that I was bothered by that woman's question, and I refused to accept my own feelings of physical inadequacy and imperfection as they were. In a way, her simple question ended up reminding me of the significance of feeling good about myself, treating myself with loving care, embracing self-acceptance, and rejecting self-judgment. These were lessons that I had learned from ten years of studying yogic philosophy and practicing meditation that I had forgotten for some reason. I decided after that day in the park that I had to change my self-perception. What mattered more than how other people viewed my body was how I viewed myself.
My soft tummy and my wider-than-usual hips were marks of motherhood, of having brought new lives into this world, and I wanted to wear them with pride. My body was still nurturing my newborn and still healing from childbirth. I realized that my aesthetic imperfections were symbols of fertility, vivaciousness, and beauty in their own right. I began running again as soon as I felt comfortable (and after getting the go-ahead from my doctor). Exercising and being physically fit are essential parts of my journey to wellness, and now I take my children along with me on my daily runs in a jogging stroller. Every now and then, I have to remind myself that how I feel is more important than how others see me, but I have never felt more comfortable in my own skin than I do now. Perfection is relative, and I certainly like my version of it each and every day.
Everything You Need to Know About Voting by Mail Versus Absentee Voting
With many people still keeping their distance at home, voting this year is going to work a little differently. Think less in-person polling, long lines, and crowded areas; more remote voting that can be done from the comfort (and safety) of your own space. Things are changing quickly, and in order to allow more voters to stay home on election day, certain states have even modified some of their voting laws, working toward a "new normal." These are huge steps towards safer voting, but the ever-evolving rules and voting terminology can become confusing quickly.
Thankfully, despite the recent push to vote more remotely, not everything is new. In fact, there have always been different ways to vote from home depending on the state you live in. These options are most commonly referred to as "absentee voting" and "voting by mail," but their differences are pretty convoluted. To provide some clarification and help you decide which method you might prefer, we broke down all the basics (and you can go here to quickly see any discrepancies in your own state).
What Is Absentee Voting?
"Absentee voting" is commonly used to describe a ballot that is mailed in when the voter in question can't make it to a polling place in person. Historically, this option was only used in specific circumstances, like if a voter was serving in the military or had become sick on election day, but this is no longer the case.
These days, you can request an absentee ballot in any state, and a total of 35 states allow you to request an absentee ballot without any excuse. The remaining states do require valid excuses, but many have changed their absentee policies for the 2020 elections, making it easier for people to cast their votes from home for any reason. You can go here to find out if there have been any recent changes to the absentee voting laws in your state.
What Is Voting by Mail?
"Voting by mail" and "mail-in voting" are relatively vague terms that differ in meaning depending on where you are. For some, it's a simple way to refer to any and all ballots cast by mail. For others, it's a more specific descriptor for any absentee ballot cast by a person who is not actually physically absent or unable to vote in person.
"Voting by mail" is also sometimes used to reference states like Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, where all voters automatically receive a ballot that they can simply fill out and mail in (a method other states are also adopting for 2020 elections). While this doesn't necessarily mean that all voters have to vote through mail, it does make the option easily available to everyone in these states - no excuse or absentee application required. This type of voting is also called "all-mail voting" or "universal vote by mail."
What's the Difference?
The truth is that the specific differences between these two types of voting vary based on the state and the person referring to them. More generally, the main difference between these voting processes is that absentee voting typically requires an excuse (or at least some kind of application), and voting by mail does not. Again, "voting by mail" can mean different things in different states, but it typically describes a ballot that is received without an application and cast through the mail without any major excuses or special circumstances.
How Can I Vote?
Deciding how to vote in this election is a highly personal choice that will depend on your state voting laws and any changes that have been made as a result of the pandemic. To cast an absentee ballot in a state that requires an excuse, you can find your state or local election office website here to see what excuses are considered valid. Some states are taking COVID-19 related concerns as valid excuses, and others have rescinded the need for excuses altogether for 2020 elections. Make sure to check your state's most recent voting laws.
To cast an absentee ballot in a state that doesn't require an excuse, just fill out an absentee ballot application by your state's deadline (which can be found here) and either submit it through the mail or drop it off in person at an appropriate polling site.
If you choose to vote by mail using the ballot sent to you by your state, simply fill out and submit the ballot you receive by your state's deadline (which is the same as the deadline for absentee ballots, found here). Most states also allow for early voting, and there are plenty of additional resources with more information about when early voting starts in your state.
Additionally, in-person polls will still be available in some states, but they will be expected to follow CDC guidelines. Ultimately, no matter how you decide to cast your vote, the most important thing is that you're letting your voice be heard and staying safe in the process. Check your state's current voting laws and see what works best for you.
I'm a New Plant Parent, and It's Totally Helping With My Stress Levels
My sister makes interior design look easy - whenever I move or redecorate a room, I call her up and ask her opinion on pretty much every decision I'm making, from rug choices to curtain rods. She has this ability to make every single space she touches feel clean, fresh, and comfortable, but most of all, incredibly calming - from her childhood bedroom, to the apartment we shared after college, to her home now. The other day, while visiting her, I realized the constant between all of these places: plants.
Trust me when I say, I didn't inherit her green thumb, which is why I've always resisted bringing plants into my own home. But, after reading about all the potential health benefits of having plants in your home (and work space!), I made the decision to become a better plant parent. For example, one smaller study I came across showed that plants in the workspace (now, my living room) could boost productivity - my sister's ability to tackle a to-do list is proof enough for me. Another noted that interactions with plants may reduce psychological stress.
That day, I visited my local plant shop and picked up a ficus and a snake plant. I placed them on my bookshelf in my living room, and on top of giving the space a much-needed pop of color, the greenery helps create a much more relaxing environment. I look forward to my morning routine with my plants - while waiting for my coffee to brew, I fill up the watering can and head over to the corner to check in on them. It feels somewhat meditative. Since then, I've invested in a few different plants for my balcony - and am currently searching for a simple planter for the railing, too.
Jesse Radloff, a licensed mental health counselor with Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, confirmed that plants could have positive effects on our well-being.
"Yes, there is some research regarding indoor plants, however the vast majority of research does focus on being in nature outdoors," Radloff said.
What instantly came to mind for me was the rejuvenating concept of forest bathing, or taking in the atmosphere of nature.
"Research has been done examining the effect on people while being in an indoor environment with and without plants," Radloff said. "Not only did the people in the rooms with plants self-report feeling less stressed and happier, their cortisol (a stress hormone) was also lower than those in non-plant rooms."
Radloff also noted that there's a mental health therapy modality called horticultural therapy, "which among other activities, involves caring for an indoor plant to improve mood, motivation, stress levels, and feelings of self-efficacy."
While many of my friends are proud plant parents with lush, green plants decorating every corner of their apartments, Pamela Bennett, assistant professor with The Ohio State University, state master gardener volunteer program director, and horticulture educator and director for the OSU Extension, said that houseplants weren't always so buzzy.
"Houseplants were last very popular when I started my career in the mid to late 70s," Bennett said. "The popularity dropped and hasn't been the same until recently. It's fantastic to see so many 'plant parents' and people rejuvenating an industry."
If you're like me - a newbie to plant parenting - Bennett suggested going with options that are easy to care for: "snake plant, pothos, philodendron, and dracaena are some of the easy starter plants."
If you're more into blooms than greens but have a history of allergies, be sure to chat with your allergist to ensure that your choice in plants won't irritate you or cause any reactions. Likewise, Bennett says that there could be skin allergy issues for those who are sensitive to plants - so it's best to do your personal due diligence before investing in your in-home jungle.
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Related: 9 Great Houseplants For Low Light
Demi Moore and Scout Willis Share Loving Birthday Wishes For Rumer Willis and a Sultry Vintage Photo
Happy Birthday, Rumer Willis! The eldest of the Willis sisters turned 32 yesterday, Aug. 16, and celebrated in calming cottagecore style with puff sleeve dresses, a rustic and cozy reading nook, and some frolicking in a nearby forest with family. What topped it all off were the loving birthday wishes - and photos - shared by mom Demi Moore, sister Scout Willis, and Rumer herself.
"Words can not do justice to the love, gratitude and joy I have for you," says Moore in a captioned carousel of photos shared to the actor's Instagram page. "You are a magnificent woman but you will always be my baby... You changed my life and gave it meaning beyond anything I had ever known. Happy Birthday, Rumer Glenn! I love you forever and a day❤️". Moore's loving message for her daughter was paired with four sweet throwback photos of the pair - of which was one very sultry photo of Moore in black lace lingerie with her daughter clinging to her legs.
Rumer's sister Scout also shared a lengthy birthday message, which partly read "I'm so lucky, Rumer is my best friend, so lucky that she is my big sister, so lucky that she has always looked out for me and taught me how to walk through the world." Rumer has her own reflective thought to share with her Instagram family: "32 years ago I entered this world and I can say today has been one of the most special celebrations of my birth I have ever had."
Keep reading ahead for all the best images and words from Rumer Willis's 32nd birthday.
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