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.
jeudi 20 août 2020
I'm Worried About My Kids Returning to School - but I'm Concerned For Teachers, Too
If there's one thing I've learned from homeschooling these past few months, it's that teachers don't get enough credit. They carry far more weight on their shoulders than I realized, and there's no doubt in my mind that they don't get the thanks they deserve - especially amid the chaos of a pandemic. As our school district prepares to reopen for the 2020-21 school year, of course I'm worried about what school will look like for my kids, but I'm concerned about their teachers, too.
None of us signed up for the current school situation we find ourselves in - the uncertainty, the unpredictable schedules, the mask debate, the social-distancing requirements, the fear of being attacked by a virus that has already victimized so many, and the constant worry about who's going to be next. But where our family has been given a choice in how we'd like to approach the upcoming school year, our teachers have not. When schools reopen, teachers in our district will be required to return regardless of the personal risks that may be involved for themselves or their families.
But instead of supporting the educators who are doing the best they can for our children under impossible circumstances, there's been so much criticism. I've heard accusations of laziness, that teachers just don't want to do their job. But from what I've seen, teachers are working harder than they ever have. They are implementing endless requirements and protocols that have never existed before. They are completing in-person learning plans as well as online learning plans - and then executing both, sometimes simultaneously. They are preparing for interruptions in learning and doing their darndest to help students catch up on what they may have missed during a tumultuous spring semester. But somehow, that all doesn't seem to be enough.
On top of that, I've even heard it said that if teachers don't want to return to school in the midst of pandemic-created havoc, they can choose to quit their jobs. But quitting a job you're experienced in, one that you love and are good at during an economic downturn? Losing your income when the job market is arguably the worst it's been in years? Well, that's not really a choice, is it?
It's interesting that the ones who directly serve our children seem to have so little say in how to go about doing so. How can the requests, opinions, and perspectives of people who actually work in the classroom be overlooked? For example, our local school district isn't requiring masks, and there are many teachers who are understandably upset about this. But again, their input has been criticized and seemingly brushed off, and the overarching decision hasn't changed.
Additionally, there's been so much talk about the mental health of our children declining due to social distancing and lack of normalcy, which is no doubt a valid concern. But I'm also concerned about the mental health of our teachers. It seems like they are being expected to do more than their share despite limited resources, limited time, ever-changing requirements, day-to-day uncertainty, and the ongoing health concerns for themselves and everyone around them. How can they carry the stress of it all on their shoulders without it negatively impacting their mental health?
We rely on teachers to keep our kids safe, and I've no doubt they have our children's best interests at heart. But how can they do so when a pandemic continues to rage? Honestly, after multiple spikes in anxiety, I've come to peace with the idea of sending my kids back to school this year, at least for the time being. I don't at all expect this year to be smooth or problem-free, but I trust that our teachers are doing their best. However, when the inevitable outbreaks of COVID-19 hit and schools have to change everything once again, I worry that our teachers are going to be held responsible for something that is completely out of their control. And that's not right.
No one knows exactly how this school year is going to play out. It's going to be rough for all of us, including our teachers. Our families have different needs, as do our children. And while the same might go for teachers, I hope we can all agree that they need our support. Because their lives and livelihoods are in just as much upheaval as ours, maybe even more, and we need to work with them, not against them.
Why You Shouldn't Put Stock in Reports That Some Blood Types May Be Spared by COVID-19
It's become evident over the past several months that the body's reaction to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is quite varied, with some people experiencing only mild symptoms (or no symptoms at all) and others becoming gravely ill. As for why that range is so wide? You may have heard that it could potentially come down to blood type. "Early reports out of China suggested blood type A predicted a poorer outcome from COVID-19," David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told POPSUGAR.
However, studies since then have been mixed at best. "One retrospective review showed no significant connection between blood type and worsening of the disease," including important markers like the need for hospitalization, Dr. Cutler explained. "An intriguing finding from the study was that there appeared to be a greater chance of people with blood types B and AB who were Rh positive testing positive for the virus," he continued. "Even stronger evidence was assembled by the team that symptomatic people with blood type O were less likely to test positive." Once again, though, Dr. Cutler cautioned that correlation does not imply causation.
Daniel Devine, MD, a dual-board-certified internist and geriatrician and cofounder of Devine Concierge Medicine, agreed. "In this study, sample size was relatively small at 483 hospitalized patients and 1,289 total COVID-positive patients who had a blood type documented," Dr. Devine told POPSUGAR. "We need to see more studies with larger numbers of patients to have a better idea if infection rate is increased with certain blood types."
Dr. Cutler added that the research that had previously emerged about blood types and COVID-19 had other limitations. "There are many flaws and biases in these studies," he said. For example, "some studies used blood donors as a comparison group to the COVID-19 patients to look at blood type frequency when COVID-19 is not present. However, it is well known that a disproportionate number of blood donors are type O, as this is the most widely acceptable type of blood for transfusion." Bottom line: early reports aren't conclusive clinical data, and it may be a while before we have the large-scale, long-term studies that would allow experts to draw firm conclusions.
Is There Anything We Can Take Away From These Studies?
"Due to lack of association between blood type and rates of hospitalization, intubation, or death, I feel it is premature to put too much stock in the topic for now," Dr. Devine said. "This newly identified distinction in infection rate between blood types may be a piece of the larger puzzle of COVID-19. It is a starting point for more research into why the virus overexcites the immune system and why the virus causes blood clots in some people and not others."
If anything, the lack of clear answers is an important reminder that we all need to do our best to follow the guidelines issued by experts and be considerate of immunocompromised and at-risk populations. "Other risk factors seem to play a far bigger role in determining outcome from COVID-19, like age. And there are many known risk factors that can be controlled, like smoking and vaping," Dr. Cutler said. "If these dangerous habits are avoided, outcomes would improve. And no blood type assures complete protection from COVID-19 - however, staying six feet away from people, washing your hands, and wearing a mask are proven to offer excellent protection."
Natasha Bhuyan, MD, family physician and regional medical director at One Medical, agreed. "Since we can't change our own blood type, there isn't much use being worried," Dr. Bhuyan told POPSUGAR. "Instead, we should focus on what we can control when it comes to COVID-19: stay at home when you can, wear a mask when you go out, practice good hand hygiene, and stay six feet away from others."
Take a (Virtual) Seat Next to Meghan Markle at the When All Women Vote #CouchParty
It's been 100 years since the passage of the 19th Amendment, and we're ready to celebrate by making sure that women's voices are heard in the 2020 election. Thankfully, When We All Vote and Meghan Markle are making that easier by hosting a virtual #CouchParty with the goal of registering 300,000 eligible women voters. The #CouchParty will kick off with a conversation between Meghan Markle, When We All Vote Board Chair and United State of Women Co-Chair Valerie Jarrett, and Glamour Magazine Editor-in-Chief Samantha Barry, and more. After the conversation, volunteers will text eligible voters while listening to a live set from Philly's DJ Diamond Kuts.
To volunteer, RSVP here, then join the fun on Thursday, August 20 at 5:00pm ET. When We All Vote has already reached over 600,000 potential voters through past #CouchParties with DJ D-Nice and we're ready to help them reach even more. We can't think of a better way to celebrate 100 years of voting rights than making sure that every woman exercises that right.
Grab Your Glass Slippers - This Cinderella-Inspired Dress Collection Is a Dream Come True
While the statement gowns Disney princesses wore in our favorite childhood films were sparkly, gorgeous, and oh-so-dreamy, they weren't exactly the most wearable designs for an occasion today. Luckily, designer Lirika Matoshi recently teamed up with Disney to create a collection of beautiful dresses that ooze the glitz and glam of a princess, but embody the modern silhouettes and details of contemporary fashion.
In celebration of the 70th anniversary of Walt Disney's Cinderella, Lirika designed a unique, ethereal collaboration featuring four fabulous dresses made of tulle and mesh, with beautiful cloud and ribbon details fit for a princess. "I was inspired to recreate modern Cinderella using colors inspired by the dreamy nature settings of the movie," Lirika explained in an Instagram post announcing the collaboration. "I used lots of tulle ruffles inspired by the dramatic puffy dresses the characters wear."
If you tried to get your hands on the viral strawberry dress made famous by TikTok, you might be familiar with Lirika's whimsical designs and flattering fits that fall in line with this Cinderella collection. The four pieces are currently available for pre-order in prices ranging from $520 to $1,500, and expected to drop late August. You can sign up for the listings on the Lirika Matoshi website to get notified to purchase the collection. In the meantime, take a closer look at the intricate, embellished designs ahead and prepare to swoon.
Excuse My French, but Every Chloe x Halle Virtual Performance Has Been Top-Tier Queen Sh*t
I'm going to just lay it all out there: Chloe x Halle have completely raised the bar when it comes to performances. The musical duo have taken the challenge of pulling off virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic and turned it into a bona-fide art. While some artists have used the experience as a way to illustrate their vocals - which can get drowned out with all the pomp of award shows and additional ceremony for live performances - the sisters have turned their home into an ever-changing stage that emphasizes their flawless voices and showcases their insane musical abilities. Each performance boasts a different rendition of a fan-favorite tune from the duo's sophomore album, Ungodly Hour, which speaks to how gifted they truly are. But if you don't believe me (which I already know you do because you have ears, but indulge me), scroll ahead for a roundup of all the virtual performances the sisters have put on during their stay at home.
David Henrie Reveals What a Wizards of Waverly Place Reboot Would Look Like, and We're Intrigued
Ever since Wizards of Waverly Place hit Disney+, we've been craving a reboot, and it sounds like the cast is just as excited about returning to their magical roots. During an interview with POPSUGAR about his upcoming film This Is the Year, David Henrie admitted that he's actually talked with his former costars Selena Gomez and Jake T. Austin about reviving the show. Though they haven't made anything official, they do have a pretty good idea of where their characters would be now.
"We think all of them have gone off and started doing their own thing," he explained. "So Justin is the head of WizTech and he's probably got a wife and tons of kids. And [Alex] is off in the Wizard World being a fashionista and is probably like the Meryl Streep in Devil Wears Prada of the fashion world. And then you have Max. He's probably a sub shop conglomerate. He's like the Subway of sub shops now. It'd be an interesting place to start [a reboot] off there. It'd be interesting to start the family off there, because although we've all grown and succeeded, we've forgotten how to be a family again. So it'd be a great arc for a season if we had to learn how to be a family again."
The hit Disney Channel series, which centered around a family of wizards living in NYC, ran for four seasons from 2007 to 2012. In the series finale, Alex (Gomez) is named the family wizard, while Justin (Henrie) takes on a job as the new Headmaster of WizTech and Max (Austin) takes over the family business by running the sub shop. While Henrie admitted that the cast often reminisces about their time on the show, filming the finale was especially emotional. "The end of the show was one that we always talk about because me, Selena and Jake were all tearing up and crying and we realized it was the end of high school for us where we all say goodbye. So that was a very sad moment for all of us."
"It really makes me feel very humbled and grateful to have been a part of something that makes people smile."
Over the years, the show's fanbase has stayed strong, which is something that Henrie is really appreciative of. "It's the best feeling ever, because I didn't anticipate it when we were making the show," he said. "Even as the show was going on, you have no idea what impact it's making on people. Yes, people would come up to you and say hi and want a picture, but no one came up to me when we were making the show like, 'This has such a positive impact on my life, it's one of my best memories.' Now people are saying that to me, 'You're my childhood.' It really makes me feel very humbled and grateful to have been a part of something that makes people smile. I'm very grateful to have been able to do that. It'd be like if I got to meet one of the Mighty Ducks. That was my favorite movie. Anytime I think of it, I just smile and it's a warm memory for me. So I really do feel incredibly grateful to have been in something that makes people feel good inside."
Henrie has even been able to share the show with his 1-year-old daughter Pia. "My wife's put it on for fun and she hears my voice and runs to the TV screen and then will look at me confused and then back at the screen confused," he said. "So she definitely knows it's me she'll say, 'Papa, papa,' but she just doesn't quite get it yet, but she will sit and watch the show. She will absolutely sit and watch it if I'm not there."
Excuse My French, but Every Chloe x Halle Virtual Performance Has Been Top-Tier Queen Sh*t
I'm going to just lay it all out there: Chloe x Halle have completely raised the bar when it comes to performances. The musical duo have taken the challenge of pulling off virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic and turned it into a bona-fide art. While some artists have used the experience as a way to illustrate their vocals - which can get drowned out with all the pomp of award shows and additional ceremony for live performances - the sisters have turned their home into an ever-changing stage that emphasizes their flawless voices and showcases their insane musical abilities. Each performance boasts a different rendition of a fan-favorite tune from the duo's sophomore album, Ungodly Hour, which speaks to how gifted they truly are. But if you don't believe me (which I already know you do because you have ears, but indulge me), scroll ahead for a roundup of all the virtual performances the sisters have put on during their stay at home.
mercredi 19 août 2020
I Stopped Checking My Phone Immediately After Waking Up, and It Transformed My Mornings
What's the first thing you do when you wake up? No, I mean the very first thing you do when you wake up? If your answer is check your phone, you're not alone. I, too, used to compulsively look through my texts, social media feeds, and various notifications before even getting out of bed or putting on my glasses. This almost obsessive scrolling took up the first 10 to 20 minutes of my mornings for years, until just recently.
You may be wondering what exactly I do after I wake up if it's not checking my phone. Well, after I've taken a few sips of water, opened a window to let some natural light into my room, and taken a dropper full of the CBD tincture I keep right next to my bed, I meditate. Depending on how grounded or distracted I feel that morning, I will either meditate on my own or follow a guided practice. I have anxiety, and because a symptom is the seemingly endless stream of thoughts circling around in my head, I sometimes wake up already feeling stressed out and somewhat absent from the world around me. These mornings, I find it helpful to follow a quick, 10-minute guided meditation, which I listen to by using a mindfulness app like Sanvello, Insight Timer, or Smiling Mind.
If I'm feeling particularly clearheaded, though, I'll try to meditate on my own for as long as I feel comfortable. When meditating without a guide, I find it most effective to focus on taking deep breaths to pull my attention away from my thoughts. When thoughts do appear (which they always do), I acknowledge them and then let them go, imagining that they're either a bubble popping or a cloud floating out of my frame of view after I have given them a moment of attention.
In the past, I wasn't someone who was a huge fan of meditation, as I could never get myself to sit still and focus with the overwhelming number of thoughts that race around my mind. The first couple of times I tried it, I definitely struggled with this, but as meditation has become a more consistent part of my day-to-day life, it's gotten much easier to peacefully sit with, acknowledge, and then release my thoughts. I've found that simply being with myself for several minutes, even if I sometimes am easily distracted during that time, is extremely therapeutic and helps me begin and move through my days with a clear mind rather than one that's tangled in a web of never-ending thoughts and scenarios.
Once I feel calm and satisfied with my meditation practice, I grab my journal and a pencil from my bedside table and fill out what I call a "daily gratitude entry." In this entry, I answer three prompts: What am I grateful for today? What can I do that would make today even better? What affirmations do I need today? I usually respond to each question with three bullet points. For example, I might write, "I am grateful for my health," "I am grateful for my support system," and "I am grateful for the opportunity to get an education."
Each of these three questions helps me prepare for the day ahead in various ways. For one thing, focusing on what I'm grateful for helps me begin my day feeling positively about life and excited for what's to come rather than dreading it. Following this up with a list of things that I can do to improve how the day turns out - such as spending time outside - allows me to create intentions that will guide me through the day and establish a much-needed sense of control over my life that I often feel is lacking when I'm anxious. Lastly, by seeking and receiving validation through positive affirmations about my strength, talent, or even beauty, I remind myself not only of these features, but also, once again, of the fact that I am in control of my life, which helps me feel more secure and confident throughout the day.
These practices, which collectively only take up 15 to 20 minutes, seem almost too simple to have positively affected me as much as they have, but there is no denying that my mental health has improved.
I don't check my phone until I've finished these practices. Sometimes, I'll try to prolong this wait even more - usually until after I've made breakfast - but completing a meditation and journal entry before I begin my scrolling is absolutely mandatory for me. As a 20-year-old living in the digital age, it's almost guaranteed that my phone will be full of news updates, emails, and horoscope predictions for that day each and every morning. Even if some of these notifications don't necessarily affect me personally, looking through all of them can still be a stressful experience, especially if I'm doing it within a minute or two of waking up. Postponing that process until I've taken the time I need to fully wake up and practice some sort of mindfulness has been extremely effective in reducing my anxiety and increasing my happiness and productivity.
As someone who has struggled with anxiety for most of my life, I've been encouraged to try meditation and journaling time and time again, but I never took either too seriously until about a month ago, and I'm so glad I did. These practices, which collectively only take up 15 to 20 minutes, seem almost too simple to have positively affected me as much as they have, but there's no denying that my mental health has improved since I first added them to my morning routine. I'm more productive, clearheaded, and intentional throughout the day.
Even if the idea of not looking at your phone until 20 minutes or so after waking up seems uncomfortable at first, I highly encourage everyone to try it at least once in combination with some sort of meditation or journaling. While our phones can often serve as a distraction from the stress and negativity of the outside world, it's important to be able to disconnect from them and connect with ourselves, which my morning routine is helping me get better at each and every day.
75+ Popular Furniture Pieces So Stunning, They Can Hardly Stay in Stock
If you're feeling like revamping your home, there's no need to shell out a ton cash on a full remodel. You can simply upgrade your home by investing in a few new furniture pieces that will that will make it feel like new overnight. To make shopping easier, we did the hard work and uncovered 65 seriously good finds from places like Amazon, All Modern, Wayfair, and even cool direct-to-consumer brands like Floyd and Article.
From comfortable sofas to space-saving tables and seriously stylish bed frames, it will be hard to not want to redo your entire home. Keep reading to shop our favorites and your home the refresh it needs.
We're in Love With Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian's Romantic Wedding Ceremony Video
After over a decade together, Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian tied the knot in Hawaii on Aug. 18, 2019. Exactly one year later, Dwayne shared a YouTube video of some of the most memorable moments from their wedding ceremony in honor of their one-year anniversary. The video includes clips of the couple exchanging vows on a Hawaiian cliffside, as well as the song "Step Into a Love Like This," which Lauren wrote and performed for Dwayne.
"I've never felt so good before. You're my protector, guardian angel, and always protect our space and beautiful energy."
"Lauren is a gifted and soulful songwriter who wrote every single word of this song (and her vows) to reflect our life and blessings on our wedding day," Dwayne captioned an Instagram post on Tuesday. "From the moment I heard the song's opening line, of '. . . every angel in heaven is singing for us today . . . ' as tribute to our loved ones who've passed away and [are] no longer with us - I got very emotional. As I still get emotional today when I hear those words and watch this wedding footage . . . I'm a lucky and grateful husband, father and man to have such an amazing woman by my side through this unpredictable, yet beautiful thing we call life."
Reminiscent of a fairy tale, the video includes gorgeous shots of Dwayne and Lauren's family, clips of the couple preparing for their big day, footage from the reception, and even a few seconds from the moment Dwayne proposed on the beach. While Dwayne revealed that Lauren technically never said "yes" because she was laughing and crying so hard from happiness, he wrote, "I'll take that response on the Hawaiian cliffs any day."
During their vows, Dwayne took the time to thank Lauren for all that she's taught him over the years. "I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for lessons beyond my imagination, my thought," he said. "Two of them are right there. The other one, I'm holding," he added, nodding to their daughters, 3-year-old Jasmine and 1-year-old Tiana, before turning to his wife-to-be. Lauren also took the heartwarming opportunity to express her love and appreciation for Dwayne. "The day you came into my town, I didn't know you'd stay there in my life," Lauren said in her vows. "Over a decade later, finally, we get to call each other husband and wife . . . You are the mate to my soul. I've never felt so good before. You're my protector, guardian angel, and always protect our space and beautiful energy." Enjoy the beautiful wedding video and Lauren's song here.
This CBD Body Balm Is a Savior For Sore Muscles and Tight Spots
I really love my TheraGun; it's a savior for sore muscles. Recently, I got the opportunity to test out some of the new TheraOne products, TheraBody's new CBD product line, and of all the products, my favorite is the TheraOne Revive CBD Body Balm ($75). It's a stick formula, which makes it insanely easy to apply, and it actually works.
I've been using it on my shoulders, because I carry so much tension there, and I can slowly feel the knots melting away.
I've been using it on my shoulders, because I carry so much tension there, and I can slowly feel the knots melting away. The Cannabidiol (CBD) combined the brand's Biosorb oil blend allows the product to truly sink into your skin for maximum effectiveness. However, I really knew this was a product worth keeping on my top shelf when one morning, I went to go apply it and found it in my brother's bathroom. He's a college athlete and has been using it on his sore muscles after training. His muscles are significantly more sore than mine are, and if it's got his stamp of approval, you know it's worth it.
Make sure to shop this must have while it's still in stock - I have a feeling it will sell out fast. Trust me, it's absolutely worth the investment.
I Stopped Checking My Phone Immediately After Waking Up, and It Transformed My Mornings
What's the first thing you do when you wake up? No, I mean the very first thing you do when you wake up? If your answer is check your phone, you're not alone. I, too, used to compulsively look through my texts, social media feeds, and various notifications before even getting out of bed or putting on my glasses. This almost obsessive scrolling took up the first 10 to 20 minutes of my mornings for years, until just recently.
You may be wondering what exactly I do after I wake up if it's not checking my phone. Well, after I've taken a few sips of water, opened a window to let some natural light into my room, and taken a dropper full of the CBD tincture I keep right next to my bed, I meditate. Depending on how grounded or distracted I feel that morning, I will either meditate on my own or follow a guided practice. I have anxiety, and because a symptom is the seemingly endless stream of thoughts circling around in my head, I sometimes wake up already feeling stressed out and somewhat absent from the world around me. These mornings, I find it helpful to follow a quick, 10-minute guided meditation, which I listen to by using a mindfulness app like Sanvello, Insight Timer, or Smiling Mind.
If I'm feeling particularly clearheaded, though, I'll try to meditate on my own for as long as I feel comfortable. When meditating without a guide, I find it most effective to focus on taking deep breaths to pull my attention away from my thoughts. When thoughts do appear (which they always do), I acknowledge them and then let them go, imagining that they're either a bubble popping or a cloud floating out of my frame of view after I have given them a moment of attention.
In the past, I wasn't someone who was a huge fan of meditation, as I could never get myself to sit still and focus with the overwhelming number of thoughts that race around my mind. The first couple of times I tried it, I definitely struggled with this, but as meditation has become a more consistent part of my day-to-day life, it's gotten much easier to peacefully sit with, acknowledge, and then release my thoughts. I've found that simply being with myself for several minutes, even if I sometimes am easily distracted during that time, is extremely therapeutic and helps me begin and move through my days with a clear mind rather than one that's tangled in a web of never-ending thoughts and scenarios.
Once I feel calm and satisfied with my meditation practice, I grab my journal and a pencil from my bedside table and fill out what I call a "daily gratitude entry." In this entry, I answer three prompts: What am I grateful for today? What can I do that would make today even better? What affirmations do I need today? I usually respond to each question with three bullet points. For example, I might write, "I am grateful for my health," "I am grateful for my support system," and "I am grateful for the opportunity to get an education."
Each of these three questions helps me prepare for the day ahead in various ways. For one thing, focusing on what I'm grateful for helps me begin my day feeling positively about life and excited for what's to come rather than dreading it. Following this up with a list of things that I can do to improve how the day turns out - such as spending time outside - allows me to create intentions that will guide me through the day and establish a much-needed sense of control over my life that I often feel is lacking when I'm anxious. Lastly, by seeking and receiving validation through positive affirmations about my strength, talent, or even beauty, I remind myself not only of these features, but also, once again, of the fact that I am in control of my life, which helps me feel more secure and confident throughout the day.
These practices, which collectively only take up 15 to 20 minutes, seem almost too simple to have positively affected me as much as they have, but there is no denying that my mental health has improved.
I don't check my phone until I've finished these practices. Sometimes, I'll try to prolong this wait even more - usually until after I've made breakfast - but completing a meditation and journal entry before I begin my scrolling is absolutely mandatory for me. As a 20-year-old living in the digital age, it's almost guaranteed that my phone will be full of news updates, emails, and horoscope predictions for that day each and every morning. Even if some of these notifications don't necessarily affect me personally, looking through all of them can still be a stressful experience, especially if I'm doing it within a minute or two of waking up. Postponing that process until I've taken the time I need to fully wake up and practice some sort of mindfulness has been extremely effective in reducing my anxiety and increasing my happiness and productivity.
As someone who has struggled with anxiety for most of my life, I've been encouraged to try meditation and journaling time and time again, but I never took either too seriously until about a month ago, and I'm so glad I did. These practices, which collectively only take up 15 to 20 minutes, seem almost too simple to have positively affected me as much as they have, but there's no denying that my mental health has improved since I first added them to my morning routine. I'm more productive, clearheaded, and intentional throughout the day.
Even if the idea of not looking at your phone until 20 minutes or so after waking up seems uncomfortable at first, I highly encourage everyone to try it at least once in combination with some sort of meditation or journaling. While our phones can often serve as a distraction from the stress and negativity of the outside world, it's important to be able to disconnect from them and connect with ourselves, which my morning routine is helping me get better at each and every day.
75+ Popular Furniture Pieces So Stunning, They Can Hardly Stay in Stock
If you're feeling like revamping your home, there's no need to shell out a ton cash on a full remodel. You can simply upgrade your home by investing in a few new furniture pieces that will that will make it feel like new overnight. To make shopping easier, we did the hard work and uncovered 65 seriously good finds from places like Amazon, All Modern, Wayfair, and even cool direct-to-consumer brands like Floyd and Article.
From comfortable sofas to space-saving tables and seriously stylish bed frames, it will be hard to not want to redo your entire home. Keep reading to shop our favorites and your home the refresh it needs.
We're in Love With Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian's Romantic Wedding Ceremony Video
After over a decade together, Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian tied the knot in Hawaii on Aug. 18, 2019. Exactly one year later, Dwayne shared a YouTube video of some of the most memorable moments from their wedding ceremony in honor of their one-year anniversary. The video includes clips of the couple exchanging vows on a Hawaiian cliffside, as well as the song "Step Into a Love Like This," which Lauren wrote and performed for Dwayne.
"I've never felt so good before. You're my protector, guardian angel, and always protect our space and beautiful energy."
"Lauren is a gifted and soulful songwriter who wrote every single word of this song (and her vows) to reflect our life and blessings on our wedding day," Dwayne captioned an Instagram post on Tuesday. "From the moment I heard the song's opening line, of '. . . every angel in heaven is singing for us today . . . ' as tribute to our loved ones who've passed away and [are] no longer with us - I got very emotional. As I still get emotional today when I hear those words and watch this wedding footage . . . I'm a lucky and grateful husband, father and man to have such an amazing woman by my side through this unpredictable, yet beautiful thing we call life."
Reminiscent of a fairy tale, the video includes gorgeous shots of Dwayne and Lauren's family, clips of the couple preparing for their big day, footage from the reception, and even a few seconds from the moment Dwayne proposed on the beach. While Dwayne revealed that Lauren technically never said "yes" because she was laughing and crying so hard from happiness, he wrote, "I'll take that response on the Hawaiian cliffs any day."
During their vows, Dwayne took the time to thank Lauren for all that she's taught him over the years. "I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for lessons beyond my imagination, my thought," he said. "Two of them are right there. The other one, I'm holding," he added, nodding to their daughters, 3-year-old Jasmine and 1-year-old Tiana, before turning to his wife-to-be. Lauren also took the heartwarming opportunity to express her love and appreciation for Dwayne. "The day you came into my town, I didn't know you'd stay there in my life," Lauren said in her vows. "Over a decade later, finally, we get to call each other husband and wife . . . You are the mate to my soul. I've never felt so good before. You're my protector, guardian angel, and always protect our space and beautiful energy." Enjoy the beautiful wedding video and Lauren's song here.
75+ Popular Furniture Pieces So Stunning, They Can Hardly Stay in Stock
If you're feeling like revamping your home, there's no need to shell out a ton cash on a full remodel. You can simply upgrade your home by investing in a few new furniture pieces that will that will make it feel like new overnight. To make shopping easier, we did the hard work and uncovered 65 seriously good finds from places like Amazon, All Modern, Wayfair, and even cool direct-to-consumer brands like Floyd and Article.
From comfortable sofas to space-saving tables and seriously stylish bed frames, it will be hard to not want to redo your entire home. Keep reading to shop our favorites and your home the refresh it needs.
My Current Bag of Choice Is the Crossbody Bucket Bag, and Here's Why
I'm an accessory-lover, and my favorite pieces, hands down, are bags. I collect them. I have big totes, tiny top-handle purses, and everything in between. However, I have left my house a handful of instances since the beginning of the pandemic, and I spent more time trying to decide on the right bag than I do my outfit. I want something that could carry my essentials (hand sanitizer, wallet, phone, etc.) while being easy to transport and keeping me as hands-free as possible. I chose a crossbody bucket bag, and it's the only purse I'll be carrying.
The crossbody strap allows for a hands-free bag, which is great, and the bucket silhouette lets me reach in and easily grab what I need without having to touch zippers or closures while I'm out. The one I'm using is the Kendall Conrad Niña Bag, which I am personally obsessed with, but I found 12 great options that everyone will love. If you're leaving the house, stay safe, wear a mask, and get yourself the right bag.
This 12-Minute Shawn Mendes Dance Workout Is the Quick Cardio Routine You've Been Craving
It's no secret that we're Shawn Mendes fans over here, and when it comes to workout tunes, this 22-year-old singer always has a spot on our playlist. So naturally, we were pretty pumped to come across a full 12-minute cardio dance workout set to some of his greatest hits, from "Stitches" to "Señorita," created by YouTube fitness influencer Teagan Dixon.
The workout starts with some slower stretches and warmup moves before going into more intense moves like knee drives, punches, and a few different squat variations. It's all mixed in with flowy (but, thankfully, not overly challenging) dance moves that help you get into the music while you work up a sweat. While the overall pace is slower and accessible to all levels, the workout builds to a cardio section (think LOTS of jumping jacks) set to "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back" that looks seriously heart-pumping. Check out the video above for the full, fun workout!
Serena Williams Is Such a Good Sport as Her Daughter Does Her Makeup . . . With Markers!
While Alexis Olympia Ohanian, Jr. is undeniably a child of many talents at just 2 years old, we have to admit her makeup skills could use a tiny bit of work. In a series of sweet videos Serena Williams shared on her Instagram Stories Tuesday afternoon, Olympia hilariously applied "makeup" on her mom as the tennis pro forced a big smile through the struggle.
In the segment dubbed "Serena Beauty starring Olympia Ohanian," the adorable 2-year-old laughed and sang while using various colored markers as lipstick and eyeliner to fill in Serena's lips and create a fun eye look. While Olympia's makeup skills are nothing to scoff at, Serena's patience is what's most impressive. The mom of one is a great sport, even chuckling through the chaos of Olympia shoving markers into her mouth. Olympia's just trying her best, after all! Check out snapshots from Serena's relatable Stories below.
Blast From the Past: 69 Unforgettable MTV VMAs Moments
The 2020 VMAs are on Aug. 30, and we're celebrating by taking a look back at the most jaw-dropping moments from the unpredictable event in years past. From Kanye West's infamous mic grab in 2009 to Beyoncé's baby-bump reveal in 2011, there is always something exciting going on both on and off the stage at the VMAs. Plus, who could forget Drake declaring his love for Rihanna at the show a few years ago? We can't wait to see what goes down this year!
Related: Here Are the 2020 MTV VMA Nominees!
My Current Bag of Choice Is the Crossbody Bucket Bag, and Here's Why
I'm an accessory-lover, and my favorite pieces, hands down, are bags. I collect them. I have big totes, tiny top-handle purses, and everything in between. However, I have left my house a handful of instances since the beginning of the pandemic, and I spent more time trying to decide on the right bag than I do my outfit. I want something that could carry my essentials (hand sanitizer, wallet, phone, etc.) while being easy to transport and keeping me as hands-free as possible. I chose a crossbody bucket bag, and it's the only purse I'll be carrying.
The crossbody strap allows for a hands-free bag, which is great, and the bucket silhouette lets me reach in and easily grab what I need without having to touch zippers or closures while I'm out. The one I'm using is the Kendall Conrad Niña Bag, which I am personally obsessed with, but I found 12 great options that everyone will love. If you're leaving the house, stay safe, wear a mask, and get yourself the right bag.
This 12-Minute Shawn Mendes Dance Workout Is the Quick Cardio Routine You've Been Craving
It's no secret that we're Shawn Mendes fans over here, and when it comes to workout tunes, this 22-year-old singer always has a spot on our playlist. So naturally, we were pretty pumped to come across a full 12-minute cardio dance workout set to some of his greatest hits, from "Stitches" to "Señorita," created by YouTube fitness influencer Teagan Dixon.
The workout starts with some slower stretches and warmup moves before going into more intense moves like knee drives, punches, and a few different squat variations. It's all mixed in with flowy (but, thankfully, not overly challenging) dance moves that help you get into the music while you work up a sweat. While the overall pace is slower and accessible to all levels, the workout builds to a cardio section (think LOTS of jumping jacks) set to "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back" that looks seriously heart-pumping. Check out the video above for the full, fun workout!
This Intuitive Eating Dietitian Uses TikTok to Call BS on Diet Culture, and Her Posts Are So Relatable
It makes me so happy to see the antidiet and intuitive eating message take off on TikTok. And actually, registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counselor Sam Previte, LDN, CPT, who specializes in helping clients make peace with food and enjoy life, was hesitant to join TikTok because she told POPSUGAR, "I thought of it as just another app that I would have to create content for, and be another time suck, and end up aimlessly scrolling on." But once quarantine hit, she had extra time, dowloaded the app, and started to engage with the content. Previte of Find Food Freedom said, "I would see a range of people on this app sharing their struggles with dieting and body image and I thought, "WOW! They are so courageous to share this publicly, so how can I help them?'"
She has always loved creating fun and funny content, and used to do a segment on Instagram called "F*ck Diet Culture Friday," where she would do similar videos before TikTok was ever a thing. People loved those videos because they were so relatable to anyone who has lived years in diet culture. She started making videos as an outlet to share her anger and sadness with everything diet culture has taken away from her, and to let others know that it doesn't have to be this way.
The inspiration behind these TikTok posts comes from things Previte hears all the time from friends, family, clients, and followers. "I absolutely love sarcasm and dry humor so you will also see a lot of that on the page," Previte said. She covers topics around intuitive eating and why diets are so harmful. "I just want them to know that they're not alone and they don't have to live like this for the rest of their life. Intuitive eating is their ticket to food freedom and enjoying life again," she said.
She's gotten so many amazing clients through the TikTok, who had never heard of intuitive eating before they downloaded the app, which Previte said, "is so freaking exciting! I feel honored that we have the opportunity to spread the amazing work of Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch [authors of the book Intuitive Eating], and to help thousands of humans make peace with food and their body again," Previte shared.
Previte also wanted to share that TikTok has also been a platform for her to connect with other amazing registered dietitians who are preaching the good word of intuitive eating and body positivity. "For example: @beautifuleatsandthings is an amazing body-positive, Black dietitian who is crushing TikTok," Previte said, and added that only 2.6 percent of dietitians are Black and we need more dietitians that are not thin, white women. She said there is absolutely a lack of diversity in the field and it's amazing that apps like this can give everyone a mic. "It's my responsibility to pass the mic and amplify videos of women of color. I recognize that I live in a very privileged body and people will listen to me because of that, and that is a problem. We need more diversity in this field if we want to see it change, and TikTok has been a blessing to connect with other amazing humans like Andy," she said.
As for Previte's TikTok videos, she said that they "embody the frustration that myself and many other similar medical professionals deal with when there are influencers and not medical professionals spreading misinformation that is not only wrong but harmful." In her practice, when Previte surveyed her clients, she found out that 65 percent of women ages 20 to 45 engage in disordered eating behaviors, and an additional 10 percent have a clinically diagnosed eating disorder. So many people can relate to the topics she covers in her videos, and she's hoping seeing them will make people feel like they're not alone, and can get the support and help they need to live with food freedom. Scroll through to see some of her best TikToks and how she spreads the message.
Blast From the Past: 69 Unforgettable MTV VMAs Moments
The 2020 VMAs are on Aug. 30, and we're celebrating by taking a look back at the most jaw-dropping moments from the unpredictable event in years past. From Kanye West's infamous mic grab in 2009 to Beyoncé's baby-bump reveal in 2011, there is always something exciting going on both on and off the stage at the VMAs. Plus, who could forget Drake declaring his love for Rihanna at the show a few years ago? We can't wait to see what goes down this year!
Related: Here Are the 2020 MTV VMA Nominees!
mardi 18 août 2020
Here Are 5 Coronavirus Safety Factors to Consider Before Going Back to the Gym
Whether your state is reopening or still mostly shut down, you're probably paying close attention to the status of your local gym. Guidelines vary widely depending on your gym and region, but the ultimate decision will be an individual one. If your gym is open, is it actually safe to go right now? And what factors should you consider to make the safest decision?
Is It Safe to Go to My Gym Now?
"The gym is a place where community transmission is more likely due to the shared spaces and equipment," Anthony Barile, MD, infectious disease medical director at Health First, told POPSUGAR. Taking multiple precautions can make it safer; Dr. Barile noted that gyms should have people wearing masks, social distancing, and washing their hands, while cleaning equipment frequently. But even then, particularly if you're in the high-risk or immunocompromised category, "the gym may not be the safest option," Dr. Barile said. The type of exercise you're doing also plays a role; based on what we know now, high-intensity workout classes are likely more risky than activities like yoga. You'll need to weigh the risks based on your health and local guidelines to make the safest choice.
Coronavirus Gym Safety Checklist
In order to make the most informed decision, look into how your gym is adhering to coronavirus safety measures. Here are some factors to check on and questions to ask.
According to Dr. Barile, your gym should:
- Follow six-foot social distancing measures. Your gym should be altering its equipment setup and capacity limitations so you can stay six feet away from others as much as possible.
- Provide plenty of hygiene products. Ask if your gym will provide sanitation wipes, hand sanitizer, and handwashing stations around the gym.
- Regularly clean high-touch areas. Gyms themselves will need to be cleaned more frequently than before the pandemic, as the coronavirus can be transmitted by touching an infected surface (though this is less likely than inhaling the virus from a cough or sneeze). Patrons should also be discouraged from using shared equipment until it's been properly cleaned.
- Check temperatures. Many states are requiring both patrons and employees to have their temperatures checked at the gym entrance, using methods that don't require close contact (such as forehead thermometers.)
- Recommend the use of face masks. Gym employees will likely be required to wear face coverings and you'll be encouraged to do so as well, especially in areas where social distancing isn't possible. In some gyms, such as Planet Fitness, face masks are now required for both patrons and employees. Here are breathable face mask options to consider for your workouts.
Even if your gym checks off all the boxes, remember that "it's still everyone's responsibility to limit the spread of the virus," Dr. Barile said. That means thoroughly wiping down equipment with sanitizing wipes (before and after use), wearing a face mask, and washing your hands frequently with soap and water and for at least 20 seconds each time. The hard truth: "If your gym doesn't make these procedures feasible," Dr. Barile said, "Then a better alternative would be to work out at home or go to a different gym that prioritizes sanitization and safety."
Check out free home workouts here and tips on getting the most out of your home fitness routine.
POPSUGAR aims to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about the coronavirus, but details and recommendations about this pandemic may have changed since publication. For the latest information on COVID-19, please check out resources from the WHO, CDC, and local public health departments.
If You Have Any Outdoor Space, You're Going to Want These Comfy Pieces of Furniture
If you're lucky enough to have some kind of outdoor space in your home, now's the time to decorate and furnish it. Even the smallest space outside can do wonders for your mental health, and if you have some that you've yet to furnish, now would be the time to do it. Summer is here, but not for much longer, and you can still take full advantage of the gift that is outdoor space. Some furniture is practical, but we went looking for supreme comfort, and we found it in these 15 options.
From cozy lounge chairs to useful sectionals and even a hammock(!), these are the picks that will make you want to stay in your backyard. If you're going to furnish the outdoor space in your home, the pieces should definitely be comfortable. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
In-Store Sofa Shopping Is a Thing of the Past - Try These Cool DTC Brands Instead
Even before the pandemic hit earlier this year, I found myself shopping for furniture less and less in stores. With an abundance of choices online that have customer reviews and beautifully styled imagery, this suddenly seems like a better way to shop. Of course testing a sofa's comfort in-store is something that's irreplaceable, but that's why many of these sites offer easy and free returns. I personally found this as a better option when I was looking for a new sofa. Browsing sites is easier than driving from store to store.
While there are a ton of places to look for couches online, including major department stores, I kept finding myself wanting to shop direct-to-consumer brands. These smaller companies often times have a mission I can get behind, or they've come up with a cool concept that they've studied and perfected. If you're in the market for a new choice and aren't sure where to start, here's where I come in. Ahead, I curated a list of a few of the best finds I came across on my shopping journey that are worth a look. Keep reading to shop them all.
Related: Redecorating? This Brand's Modern and Functional Furniture Is a Space-Saving Dream
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
If You Have Any Outdoor Space, You're Going to Want These Comfy Pieces of Furniture
If you're lucky enough to have some kind of outdoor space in your home, now's the time to decorate and furnish it. Even the smallest space outside can do wonders for your mental health, and if you have some that you've yet to furnish, now would be the time to do it. Summer is here, but not for much longer, and you can still take full advantage of the gift that is outdoor space. Some furniture is practical, but we went looking for supreme comfort, and we found it in these 15 options.
From cozy lounge chairs to useful sectionals and even a hammock(!), these are the picks that will make you want to stay in your backyard. If you're going to furnish the outdoor space in your home, the pieces should definitely be comfortable. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
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