Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mercredi 26 août 2020
Do Your Cats Love Chewing On Your Hair? It's Their Way of Saying "I Love You"
Cats are complex creatures. In a way, their complexity gets a bad rep: they can be seen as selfish or not affectionate enough, but that could not be further from the truth. Cats are supremely affectionate, they just sometimes show their love in different ways. While a dog is all about wagging their tail, slobbering you in kisses, and knocking you over when you get home just to show their excitement, cats are ones to take things in stride. But once you gain their trust, they'll curl up next to you in bed while you're watching TV or on your computer, roll over to show you their belly, or even chew on your hair! Yes, that's right - your cat chewing on your hair is a sign of affection. Keep reading to learn more!
Why does my cat chew my hair?
Besides being a sign of affection, it has to do with your living situation. According to veterinarian Dr. Ignacio Casali, DVM, "Cats that live in communities tend to spend a large period of time grooming each other. This behavior includes licking, biting, and snuggling." When cuddling with you, your cat will often try to reciprocate the petting they receive. "Frequently, they will choose to lick body parts or even bite an owner's hair as a form of grooming," Dr. Casali explains. So that hair chewing isn't just because your coconut shampoo tastes good - it's an instinctual way of saying they love you.
Veterinarian Maria R. Mendoza, DVM agrees: "Cats that are very attached to their owners target the owner's 'furry' parts (i.e. their hair) to share the family scent with proper grooming." In fact, since their tongue acts as a comb for themselves, as its covered with little barbs, when cats lick or bite you they are exhibiting social grooming behaviors that signify they see you as one in the same. It can also be a sign they are calm, or that they are simply including you in their pack.
Is it bad if my cat chews my hair?
Even though a cat chewing your hair is a form affection and is often freaking adorable, be aware of what products may be in your hair. "Hair regrowth products that contain minoxidil, like Rogaine, can be very toxic to cats and cause heart failure," Dr. Casali told POPSUGAR. If using these kinds of products, you should stop your cat from chewing on your hair.
Hair chewing might not always be a social behavior, either. "Sometimes, if your cat is excessively biting your hair, and/or eating other non-food objects (like kitty litter), the cat may have a condition called pica, possibly related to dietary deficiencies," Dr. Casali says. If your cat is excessively chewing objects or eating things he shouldn't, talk to your vet.
How can I show affection back to my cat?
Cats spend around 30 percent of their lives grooming themselves, and when they're feeling all lovey-dovey, grooming you. A great way to show affection back, apart from a nice little massage or petting, is to groom them back. Many cats love a relaxing brushing session, and it can be just the way to continue the bonding experience with your feline pal. If they're not into that, making them a fun DIY cat toy would be great, too!
Light Up Your Abs Like Dynamite With This 3-Minute BTS Cardio Workout
"Dynamite" came out last week and (I'm not exaggerating) I haven't stopped singing it since. One listen lodges this perfect-for-summer BTS song in your head, so you might as well make the best of it and get a workout in at the same time! That's where this three-and-a-half minute cardio routine from Mylee Dance comes in. The fitness YouTuber and choreographer lays out the perfect moves to this BTS beat, so smooth you won't even realize that you're doing squats and hip thrusts until you feel your core at the end.
The choreography moves fast, so you might need a few run-throughs to get it down, but hey - more reps means more sweat, and that's why we're here. Bonus: Mylee even incorporates some of BTS's original choreography, so if worst comes to worst, just channel J-Hope and keep grooving. Check out the full routine above and try it out for yourself for some quick cardio!
The 101 Most Stunning Home-Decor Finds You Can Shop Online
Decorating your home is a lot easier said than done. You'll want to make sure you only invest in pieces that you truly love and that reflect your own personal style. Shopping for the right pieces online can be difficult because of the plethora of choices out there. To help you get started, we scoured the internet for the best picks that customers are loving this season.
Whether you're on the hunt for colorful throw pillows or a potted planter, we found tons of options that'll give your home the refresh it's been begging for. We shopped at retailers like Amazon and cool smaller brands like Jungalow and Effortless Composition so you can find exactly what you want at a price point that works for your budget. Keep reading to shop them all and create your dream space.
5 Disinfecting Wipes You Can Find in Stock Right Now
Household cleaning products have gone from a "nice to have" to a "need to have". Making sure your space is clean and sanitary is of the utmost importance, and if you're like us, you remember how difficult it was to score some much needed cleaning supplies a few months ago. We always want to have disinfecting wipes on hand because they're so easy to use, and really get the job done.
If you need some simple, portable cleaning supplies, get your hands on these five options before they're out of stock - again! This is one product you'll always be happy to have. Keep on reading to shop our selects.
Riddle Me Impressed With How Fast DC Fans Solved The Riddle in the Trailer For The Batman
Fans of a good brain teaser will know that The Riddler is basically a walking puzzle factory, and his latest riddle in the trailer for The Batman already has fans in full-on detective mode. In the trailer, a card packaged in a green envelope arrives addressed to "The Batman." Inside, the card poses a handwritten question: "What does a liar do when he's dead?" Followed by a set of unfamiliar symbols that seem to be hiding some kind of message, the card continues, "Haven't a clue? Let's play a game, just me and you . . ."
In a feat that would make both Commissioner Gordon and Alfred proud, DC fans have already solved the puzzling riddle using some impressive word-to-letter correlations, and the breakdown is just as mind-boggling as the original clue. In a Twitter thread, game designer Mike Selinker explained exactly how he solved the puzzle. Keep reading for the final solution and to see exactly how the cryptic symbols translate to an ominous message that has us hoping emo Robert Pattinson Batman can solve this riddle for himself in record time.
7 Theories on How the Second Half of Lucifer's Fifth Season Could Be Hell on Earth
Netflix has only dropped the first half of Lucifer's fifth season, but fans are already full of questions. The first eight episodes dropped on Aug. 21 and ended things with a spectacularly devilish cliffhanger that makes us wonder where things are headed when part two drops. We don't have a date for the release of part two yet, but that doesn't mean we can't go over what we know and how we think it'll all go down once the Devil and his wayward gang return! Keep reading for some of our favorite theories on what surprises are in store when Lucifer's season five officially ends.
Here Are the First Things You Should Do If Your Cat or Dog Eats Chocolate
It's any pet parent's worst nightmare. A mangled chocolate wrapper, the telltale leftovers on your fur baby's face, and the sneaking suspicion that something has gone terribly wrong. With Halloween quickly approaching, knowing what to do if your pet eats chocolate is essential, and it's something you'll want to be prepared for before it actually happens. To ensure that you and your pet stay safe this holiday season, POPSUGAR spoke to pet experts and untangled the truth behind chocolate, why your pets shouldn't eat it, and what your first steps should be if they do. That way, just in case your cat or dog does manage to get into some candy this year, you'll be able to act faster and smarter. Better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your pets.
Why Is Chocolate So Bad For Your Pet?
According to Kristen Levine, pet parenting expert and creator of Pet Living, while chocolate tastes delicious for humans, it can actually be toxic for pets like cats and dogs. "Chocolate and cocoa contain theobromine, which we can naturally digest, but dogs and cats cannot," Levine explained. "This can lead to some serious symptoms, and even liver failure."
Experts from PetMD added that traces of caffeine can also contribute to chocolate's harmful effects, and both caffeine and theobromine are present in all kinds of chocolate, just at different levels. As explained by Dr. Sara Ochoa, veterinary consultant for doglab.com, this is what makes some types of chocolate more dangerous than others. For instance, "Milk chocolate does not contain as much cocoa powder and is not as dangerous as bakers or dark chocolate," Dr. Ochoa said. The strength of the toxins in the chocolate is ultimately dependent on the amount of cocoa used, which means dark chocolate is the most dangerous, but even white chocolate can be fatal in some cases.
What Should You Do First If Your Pet Eats Chocolate?
Although your initial reaction might be to panic, the best thing you can do if your pet eats chocolate is to keep your calm and do your best to find out what happened. Dr. Callie Harris, DVM, and Purina veterinarian, recommended looking to see what type of chocolate your pet consumed, how much they ate, and when they ate it. These details can be helpful for your vet in deciding the right course of action, but as Dr. Ochoa said, if you think your pet has eaten a large amount of any chocolate, they should see a vet right away.
Levine agreed, saying that you should contact your vet as soon as possible in order to figure out the next steps. If it's after office hours or on a weekend, she encouraged pet owners to call the closest emergency vet or animal hospital instead (and you can also call the pet poison helpline at 855-213-6680). Once you have done this, Levine said, "Depending on the size of your pet and how much [chocolate] they've ingested, your vet may have you bring them in for an exam and possibly to induce vomiting before the toxin causes more damage." Dr. Harris added that your vet may also have you induce vomiting at home, but this is not something you should attempt on your own without professional guidance (especially with cats, who are famously difficult to make vomit).
Concerning symptoms Dr. Harris said to look out for throughout all of this include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and hyperactivity. Other warning signs Levine advised pet owners to report to their vet are restlessness, increased rate of breathing, increased heart rate, high temperature, seizures, and muscle rigidity.
What Should You Do at the Vet?
When you get to the vet, report any changes in your pet's behavior and try to come prepared with as many details as possible. Levine said to, "Be sure to bring the candy wrapper or any information on the type of chocolate that your pet consumed to your vet appointment to ensure proper treatment, since some chocolates contain more theobromine than others." At this point, your vet will likely induce vomiting to prevent toxicity from setting in. On rare occasions, pets may also be given activated charcoal to deal with extremely high doses of chocolate.
How Much Time Do You Have to Take Action?
The effects of chocolate can set in rapidly, which is why acting quickly is a huge part of keeping your pet safe. Typically, chocolate poisoning begins to affect cats and dogs within six to 12 hours. However, even if your pet isn't exhibiting signs of toxicity yet, Dr. Harris recommended contacting your vet or animal hospital immediately to prevent symptoms from setting in. "This can potentially help you avoid a trip into the vet's office and prevent further danger," Dr. Harris said.
If you aren't completely sure if your pet has eaten chocolate, Levine said it's still imperative to take action because you don't know how much they might have eaten or how long ago they might have eaten it. As soon as you know your pet is safe and healthy again, you might also want to consider finding a new place to keep your chocolate, particularly for pets who love to get into food. Keeping any candy, baked goods, and other chocolaty treats off the counter is also a good idea to ensure that your pets stay safe and sound, no matter how hungry they get.
Do Your Cats Love Chewing On Your Hair? It's Their Way of Saying "I Love You"
Cats are complex creatures. In a way, their complexity gets a bad rep: they can be seen as selfish or not affectionate enough, but that could not be further from the truth. Cats are supremely affectionate, they just sometimes show their love in different ways. While a dog is all about wagging their tail, slobbering you in kisses, and knocking you over when you get home just to show their excitement, cats are ones to take things in stride. But once you gain their trust, they'll curl up next to you in bed while you're watching TV or on your computer, roll over to show you their belly, or even chew on your hair! Yes, that's right - your cat chewing on your hair is a sign of affection. Keep reading to learn more!
Why does my cat chew my hair?
Besides being a sign of affection, it has to do with your living situation. According to veterinarian Dr. Ignacio Casali, DVM, "Cats that live in communities tend to spend a large period of time grooming each other. This behavior includes licking, biting, and snuggling." When cuddling with you, your cat will often try to reciprocate the petting they receive. "Frequently, they will choose to lick body parts or even bite an owner's hair as a form of grooming," Dr. Casali explains. So that hair chewing isn't just because your coconut shampoo tastes good - it's an instinctual way of saying they love you.
Veterinarian Maria R. Mendoza, DVM agrees: "Cats that are very attached to their owners target the owner's 'furry' parts (i.e. their hair) to share the family scent with proper grooming." In fact, since their tongue acts as a comb for themselves, as its covered with little barbs, when cats lick or bite you they are exhibiting social grooming behaviors that signify they see you as one in the same. It can also be a sign they are calm, or that they are simply including you in their pack.
Is it bad if my cat chews my hair?
Even though a cat chewing your hair is a form affection and is often freaking adorable, be aware of what products may be in your hair. "Hair regrowth products that contain minoxidil, like Rogaine, can be very toxic to cats and cause heart failure," Dr. Casali told POPSUGAR. If using these kinds of products, you should stop your cat from chewing on your hair.
Hair chewing might not always be a social behavior, either. "Sometimes, if your cat is excessively biting your hair, and/or eating other non-food objects (like kitty litter), the cat may have a condition called pica, possibly related to dietary deficiencies," Dr. Casali says. If your cat is excessively chewing objects or eating things he shouldn't, talk to your vet.
How can I show affection back to my cat?
Cats spend around 30 percent of their lives grooming themselves, and when they're feeling all lovey-dovey, grooming you. A great way to show affection back, apart from a nice little massage or petting, is to groom them back. Many cats love a relaxing brushing session, and it can be just the way to continue the bonding experience with your feline pal. If they're not into that, making them a fun DIY cat toy would be great, too!
The 101 Most Stunning Home-Decor Finds You Can Shop Online
Decorating your home is a lot easier said than done. You'll want to make sure you only invest in pieces that you truly love and that reflect your own personal style. Shopping for the right pieces online can be difficult because of the plethora of choices out there. To help you get started, we scoured the internet for the best picks that customers are loving this season.
Whether you're on the hunt for colorful throw pillows or a potted planter, we found tons of options that'll give your home the refresh it's been begging for. We shopped at retailers like Amazon and cool smaller brands like Jungalow and Effortless Composition so you can find exactly what you want at a price point that works for your budget. Keep reading to shop them all and create your dream space.
5 Disinfecting Wipes You Can Find in Stock Right Now
Household cleaning products have gone from a "nice to have" to a "need to have". Making sure your space is clean and sanitary is of the utmost importance, and if you're like us, you remember how difficult it was to score some much needed cleaning supplies a few months ago. We always want to have disinfecting wipes on hand because they're so easy to use, and really get the job done.
If you need some simple, portable cleaning supplies, get your hands on these five options before they're out of stock - again! This is one product you'll always be happy to have. Keep on reading to shop our selects.
mardi 25 août 2020
Jennifer Garner Sobbing in Slo-Mo After The Office Series Finale Is a Mood We Can Relate to
Jennifer Garner is going through The Office finale stages of grief: crying, laughing, and a good "Bears, Beets, Battlestar Galactica" quote. The actress recently finished the NBC series with her kids - Violet, 14, Seraphina, 11, and Samuel, 8 - and it left her (understandably) in tears. She tried to capture her feelings in a video, but ended up recording herself in slow motion, which kind of feels appropriate for 2020, doesn't it?
"My kids and I have spent months piled on the couch working our way through 'How to Behave as Grownups' 🙅🏻♀️, aka #TheOffice," she captioned her Instagram video on Aug. 24. "Apparently we are sensitive people-the finale hit us pretty hard. When I realized I'd accidentally shot my farewell testimonial in slo-mo I realized: your Monday might need this, too."
Her instincts were right: we did need this! Clearly, show finales have a special place in Garner's heart. Just last week, she shared an emotional moment with the Schitt's Creek cast as she reflected on her final Alias days. But it's not goodbye, it's just see you later! Fans will always have those last episodes to go back to.
Like a True Friend, Jessica Alba Teaches Joseph Gordon-Levitt the Basics of Skin Care
While it's no secret Jessica Alba has gorgeous, radiant skin, I have to say I never thought I'd get such a close look at Joseph Gordon-Levitt's skin-care habits. In a new video on her YouTube channel, Alba walked a pretty clueless Gordon-Levitt - who knew they were friends?! - through a quick skin-care routine, and the results are hilarious.
The Project Power actor, who costarred in Sin City: A Dame to Kill For with Alba, attentively followed her lead and sniffed the different scents as she instructed him to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and mask using Honest Beauty products. In one particularly comical moment, Gordon-Levitt used a creamy gel cleanser to wash his face and as he started to scrub a little too aggressively, the Honest Beauty founder looked slightly horrified and quickly advised him to tone down the intensity. "You're being very rough with your face," she said with a laugh. "Oh, was that too hard?" a confused Gordon-Levitt responded.
Though he might not know much about skin care, the actor's glow certainly indicates otherwise, as I could not look away from his flawless complexion that rivals Alba's. Watch Alba and Gordon-Levitt discuss skin care, the joys of parenting, and Gordon-Levitt's latest projects, all while applying different oils and masks, in the video above.
These 13 Low-Carb, High-Protein Snacks Are Your Weight-Loss Secret Weapon
If you're trying to lose weight, eating the right foods is your not-so-secret weapon. We're all too familiar with that 3 p.m. hunger craving, so when it does strike, you want to be prepared with something that will keep you full and focused, but still tastes good. Adding protein to your diet is an easy way to feel fuller, longer, but often, the increase in protein means an increase in carbohydrates, too. Well, not anymore.
We found 13 low-carb, high-protein snacks on Amazon that actually taste good. Yes, that's right. All these picks have at least 10 grams of protein, and no more than 10 grams of net carbs. Basically, they're going to be your secret weapon all Summer long. You can thank us later.
Related: Yes, You Can Eat Hot Cereal on a Low-Carb Diet, as Long as It's 1 of These 8 Picks
These 13 Low-Carb, High-Protein Snacks Are Your Weight-Loss Secret Weapon
If you're trying to lose weight, eating the right foods is your not-so-secret weapon. We're all too familiar with that 3 p.m. hunger craving, so when it does strike, you want to be prepared with something that will keep you full and focused, but still tastes good. Adding protein to your diet is an easy way to feel fuller, longer, but often, the increase in protein means an increase in carbohydrates, too. Well, not anymore.
We found 13 low-carb, high-protein snacks on Amazon that actually taste good. Yes, that's right. All these picks have at least 10 grams of protein, and no more than 10 grams of net carbs. Basically, they're going to be your secret weapon all Summer long. You can thank us later.
Related: Yes, You Can Eat Hot Cereal on a Low-Carb Diet, as Long as It's 1 of These 8 Picks
Like a True Friend, Jessica Alba Teaches Joseph Gordon-Levitt the Basics of Skin Care
While it's no secret Jessica Alba has gorgeous, radiant skin, I have to say I never thought I'd get such a close look at Joseph Gordon-Levitt's skin-care habits. In a new video on her YouTube channel, Alba walked a pretty clueless Gordon-Levitt - who knew they were friends?! - through a quick skin-care routine, and the results are hilarious.
The Project Power actor, who costarred in Sin City: A Dame to Kill For with Alba, attentively followed her lead and sniffed the different scents as she instructed him to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and mask using Honest Beauty products. In one particularly comical moment, Gordon-Levitt used a creamy gel cleanser to wash his face and as he started to scrub a little too aggressively, the Honest Beauty founder looked slightly horrified and quickly advised him to tone down the intensity. "You're being very rough with your face," she said with a laugh. "Oh, was that too hard?" a confused Gordon-Levitt responded.
Though he might not know much about skin care, the actor's glow certainly indicates otherwise, as I could not look away from his flawless complexion that rivals Alba's. Watch Alba and Gordon-Levitt discuss skin care, the joys of parenting, and Gordon-Levitt's latest projects, all while applying different oils and masks, in the video above.
As If Vans Couldn't Get Any Cooler, These Tie-Dye Sneakers Are Here
If you love sneakers as much as we do, you're going to want to keep reading. When we think of cool, effortless sneaker style, we think of Vans. The skater shoes are perfect everyday picks because they're so versatile, they really do go with everything. When we saw these tie-dye styles, though, we knew we had stumbled on something special, and because we love sharing in our good fortune, we're showing you all what's up. These tie-dye sneakers will be a constant staple, and at just $75, you can't afford not to have them.
We'd style these picks with cute jean shorts or a pretty white dress. Since the colors are so vibrant here, we're into pairing them with neutrals so they really pop. If you love sneakers as much as we do, you've got to shop these styles.
I Turned Off My Most Stressful Notifications, and After 2 Weeks, I Already Feel Calmer
It never used to bother me when emails came rolling in after hours. For one thing, it comes with the job when you work in media; they mean it when they say the news cycle never ends. Plus, living in California, I'm used to getting alerts from co-workers a few time zones ahead. The rest of my team works on the East Coast time, and sometimes I'd scroll through their early-morning Slack messages on my commute, chiming in with ideas while I booted up for the day.
Flash forward a few months and I don't even have a commute anymore. Now when I get an email at 7 a.m. or on a Saturday afternoon, there's really nothing to stop me from pulling out my laptop and hopping online. And even if the computer stays closed, it's like the the notification is still buzzing in the back of my mind, needing to be dealt with.
It doesn't help that after five months of work-from-home, my work-life balance is completely shot. I've been pushing back the end of the workday later and later (so easy to do when you're at home all day), and it leaves me exhausted and strung-out at night. The next morning, the anxiety starts before I'm even out of bed, when I turn off my alarm and the first thing I see are those emails and Slack notifications. Then I look up at my desk, where I'll be sitting for the next 8 hours, and my computer, waiting to suck me in. I'm learning that when you work where you sleep, eat, exercise, and relax, it feels like your whole life is one endless Monday morning with no weekends in sight.
Finally, when the anxiety started bleeding into weekends and PTO days, I decided something had to change. This was unsustainable; I couldn't be stressed every waking hour. And I realized there was one easy, at least partial solution, which involved just a few taps on my phone.
I'm learning that when you work where you sleep, eat, exercise, and relax, it feels like your whole life is one endless Monday morning with no weekends in sight.
I pulled up my notification settings and, starting with Slack, began turning them off one by one. Facebook? Gone. Twitter? Nope. Email? I hesitated, then pressed the button. I felt a little lighter with each tap. Any notification that caused a bubble of stress in my throat got powered off, from work to social media. The only apps I let ping me were the barest essentials, like texting and phone calls, or the ones that were pure fun, like YouTube and ESPN. And just like that, my phone went quiet.
In the two weeks since, something unexpected has happened. Before, I barely noticed my habit of toting my phone from room to room, and its constant presence made it easy to constantly glance down, catch a notification, and get sucked into an email or social media hole. But now that it wasn't buzzing me all the time, there was no reason for me to have it an inch from my hand all day. Now I'll go hours without looking at my phone, sometimes leaving it in a different room or on silent all day. In breaking up with my most stressful notifications, I've also gotten less dependent on my phone in general.
Yes, there are still days when I'll need to check my email or messages after dinner, but I try to be aware ahead of time so I can plan and check in at certain times, instead of constantly glancing down for notifications. Sure, it's led to some missed or late emails, and I really have to be on top of my calendar (logged on yesterday to find I was already late for a meeting . . . oops), but it's worth it because of what happens when I finally do power down for the night. I shut my laptop with the knowledge that I'm not accessible unless I choose to be, which means for the next few hours, my time is my own, with no phone reminding me of my 9-to-5 responsibilities.
These days I spend a lot of time freaked out about having zero control over anything, which made this little exercise of power feel really, really good - especially when it leads to less time on my phone or thinking about work. And while turning off my notifications hasn't made me totally stress- or anxiety-free, it does feel like setting up these simple boundaries has helped me take back a little more control over my time, energy, and life.
15 Comfortable Sofas So Plush,You'll Never Want to Get Up
After moving into my new apartment, I was in need of a new sofa, but finding the right one is a lot easier said than done. I went from store to store in hunt of the perfect plush piece I could lounge on night after night, but every time I fell in love with one, the price tag totally shocked me. In an effort to find the comfortable sofa of my dreams, I turned to the internet.
While originally I thought virtual furniture shopping might be hard, it turns out tons of retailers have fast shipping options and easy returns, plus, the affordable prices just can't be beat. To help inspire you to find the right choice for your home, I curated a list of my 15 favorite picks from retailers like Amazon and even direct-to-consumer brands like Article and Floyd. Keep reading to shop them all; I guarantee the prices and quality will surprise you, in a good way!
As If Vans Couldn't Get Any Cooler, These Tie-Dye Sneakers Are Here
If you love sneakers as much as we do, you're going to want to keep reading. When we think of cool, effortless sneaker style, we think of Vans. The skater shoes are perfect everyday picks because they're so versatile, they really do go with everything. When we saw these tie-dye styles, though, we knew we had stumbled on something special, and because we love sharing in our good fortune, we're showing you all what's up. These tie-dye sneakers will be a constant staple, and at just $75, you can't afford not to have them.
We'd style these picks with cute jean shorts or a pretty white dress. Since the colors are so vibrant here, we're into pairing them with neutrals so they really pop. If you love sneakers as much as we do, you've got to shop these styles.
I Turned Off My Most Stressful Notifications, and After 2 Weeks, I Already Feel Calmer
It never used to bother me when emails came rolling in after hours. For one thing, it comes with the job when you work in media; they mean it when they say the news cycle never ends. Plus, living in California, I'm used to getting alerts from co-workers a few time zones ahead. The rest of my team works on the East Coast time, and sometimes I'd scroll through their early-morning Slack messages on my commute, chiming in with ideas while I booted up for the day.
Flash forward a few months and I don't even have a commute anymore. Now when I get an email at 7 a.m. or on a Saturday afternoon, there's really nothing to stop me from pulling out my laptop and hopping online. And even if the computer stays closed, it's like the the notification is still buzzing in the back of my mind, needing to be dealt with.
It doesn't help that after five months of work-from-home, my work-life balance is completely shot. I've been pushing back the end of the workday later and later (so easy to do when you're at home all day), and it leaves me exhausted and strung-out at night. The next morning, the anxiety starts before I'm even out of bed, when I turn off my alarm and the first thing I see are those emails and Slack notifications. Then I look up at my desk, where I'll be sitting for the next 8 hours, and my computer, waiting to suck me in. I'm learning that when you work where you sleep, eat, exercise, and relax, it feels like your whole life is one endless Monday morning with no weekends in sight.
Finally, when the anxiety started bleeding into weekends and PTO days, I decided something had to change. This was unsustainable; I couldn't be stressed every waking hour. And I realized there was one easy, at least partial solution, which involved just a few taps on my phone.
I'm learning that when you work where you sleep, eat, exercise, and relax, it feels like your whole life is one endless Monday morning with no weekends in sight.
I pulled up my notification settings and, starting with Slack, began turning them off one by one. Facebook? Gone. Twitter? Nope. Email? I hesitated, then pressed the button. I felt a little lighter with each tap. Any notification that caused a bubble of stress in my throat got powered off, from work to social media. The only apps I let ping me were the barest essentials, like texting and phone calls, or the ones that were pure fun, like YouTube and ESPN. And just like that, my phone went quiet.
In the two weeks since, something unexpected has happened. Before, I barely noticed my habit of toting my phone from room to room, and its constant presence made it easy to constantly glance down, catch a notification, and get sucked into an email or social media hole. But now that it wasn't buzzing me all the time, there was no reason for me to have it an inch from my hand all day. Now I'll go hours without looking at my phone, sometimes leaving it in a different room or on silent all day. In breaking up with my most stressful notifications, I've also gotten less dependent on my phone in general.
Yes, there are still days when I'll need to check my email or messages after dinner, but I try to be aware ahead of time so I can plan and check in at certain times, instead of constantly glancing down for notifications. Sure, it's led to some missed or late emails, and I really have to be on top of my calendar (logged on yesterday to find I was already late for a meeting . . . oops), but it's worth it because of what happens when I finally do power down for the night. I shut my laptop with the knowledge that I'm not accessible unless I choose to be, which means for the next few hours, my time is my own, with no phone reminding me of my 9-to-5 responsibilities.
These days I spend a lot of time freaked out about having zero control over anything, which made this little exercise of power feel really, really good - especially when it leads to less time on my phone or thinking about work. And while turning off my notifications hasn't made me totally stress- or anxiety-free, it does feel like setting up these simple boundaries has helped me take back a little more control over my time, energy, and life.
You May Be Able to Take Your Birth Control in Place of the Morning-After Pill, but Be Cautious
The morning-after pill can be a safety net for moments when your contraception fails, but for a multitude of reasons, accessing emergency contraception may not be as straightforward as it seems. "There are many unfortunate barriers to obtaining [the morning-after pill] like language barriers, failure of pharmacies to keep it in stock, social anxieties, and many more," Angel Lightner, DO, a chief ob-gyn resident in New Jersey, told POPSUGAR. However, for those with a birth control prescription, there is an alternative: the Yuzpe method.
The Yuzpe method involves taking a larger dose of standard birth control pills, in order to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy - and while it can be more accessible for some, it's less effective and has more side effects, Sameena Rahman, MD, FACOG, owner of Center for Gynecology and Cosmetics in Chicago and a clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, told POPSUGAR.
The key is getting enough progestin, the active ingredient in many emergency contraceptive pills. "The level and dosage of your pack plays a huge factor because a certain threshold of hormonal concentration is needed to prevent ovulation, which is why the dosing required for emergency contraception is variable," Dr. Lightner said. Because morning-after pills such as Plan B are progestin-only medications, and many birth control pills contain both estrogen and progesterone, evaluating how many of your pills you should take can be tricky.
Dr. Rahman explained that, in order for your birth control to effectively double as emergency contraception, you'd need to take a dose containing 100 to 120mcg of ethinyl estradiol and 0.5 to 0.6mg of levonorgestrel, then repeat the same dose 12 hours later. "This can be anywhere from four to five pills for the first dose and repeating the same dose in another 12 hours," Dr. Rahman said.
While there are resources available that can help you determine the correct dosage, based on the brand of birth control you take, experts don't recommend going it alone. "Yes, this might seem like an easier and more cost-effective alternative, but it doesn't make it any more effective," Dr. Rahman explained, adding that you should always speak with your doctor before trying the Yuzpe method. This can not only ensure that you're taking the proper dose, but also that this method is a safe option for you, given your medical history. Side effects can range from nausea, vomiting, and breast tenderness, to the more dangerous risk of blood clots.
15 Comfortable Sofas So Plush,You'll Never Want to Get Up
After moving into my new apartment, I was in need of a new sofa, but finding the right one is a lot easier said than done. I went from store to store in hunt of the perfect plush piece I could lounge on night after night, but every time I fell in love with one, the price tag totally shocked me. In an effort to find the comfortable sofa of my dreams, I turned to the internet.
While originally I thought virtual furniture shopping might be hard, it turns out tons of retailers have fast shipping options and easy returns, plus, the affordable prices just can't be beat. To help inspire you to find the right choice for your home, I curated a list of my 15 favorite picks from retailers like Amazon and even direct-to-consumer brands like Article and Floyd. Keep reading to shop them all; I guarantee the prices and quality will surprise you, in a good way!
Prevent Face Mask Cross-Contamination With These 10 Easy-to-Use Cases
Every time I leave the house, I wear a face mask. The more I wear one, the more I realize what I need to make my daily routine easier. While I've found a few choices that I love, there was one thing I was missing: proper storage for it. In between store visits or getting in my car, I sometimes take off my mask and then realize I'm not sure where to put it. Not only do I want to keep it clean, but I also don't want to cross-contaminate with my pocket or inside my purse.
For the last few months, I've been solving this problem with plastic baggies, which seems wasteful. I went on a journey to find a face mask case, and it turns out, I wasn't alone - there is a large selection to shop. To help you find the best one for your needs, I curated a list of the most useful choices I found ahead. Keep reading to shop these top picks.
15 Comfortable Sofas So Plush,You'll Never Want to Get Up
After moving into my new apartment, I was in need of a new sofa, but finding the right one is a lot easier said than done. I went from store to store in hunt of the perfect plush piece I could lounge on night after night, but every time I fell in love with one, the price tag totally shocked me. In an effort to find the comfortable sofa of my dreams, I turned to the internet.
While originally I thought virtual furniture shopping might be hard, it turns out tons of retailers have fast shipping options and easy returns, plus, the affordable prices just can't be beat. To help inspire you to find the right choice for your home, I curated a list of my 15 favorite picks from retailers like Amazon and even direct-to-consumer brands like Article and Floyd. Keep reading to shop them all; I guarantee the prices and quality will surprise you, in a good way!
You May Be Able to Take Your Birth Control in Place of the Morning-After Pill, but Be Cautious
The morning-after pill can be a safety net for moments when your contraception fails, but for a multitude of reasons, accessing emergency contraception may not be as straightforward as it seems. "There are many unfortunate barriers to obtaining [the morning-after pill] like language barriers, failure of pharmacies to keep it in stock, social anxieties, and many more," Angel Lightner, DO, a chief ob-gyn resident in New Jersey, told POPSUGAR. However, for those with a birth control prescription, there is an alternative: the Yuzpe method.
The Yuzpe method involves taking a larger dose of standard birth control pills, in order to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy - and while it can be more accessible for some, it's less effective and has more side effects, Sameena Rahman, MD, FACOG, owner of Center for Gynecology and Cosmetics in Chicago and a clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, told POPSUGAR.
The key is getting enough progestin, the active ingredient in many emergency contraceptive pills. "The level and dosage of your pack plays a huge factor because a certain threshold of hormonal concentration is needed to prevent ovulation, which is why the dosing required for emergency contraception is variable," Dr. Lightner said. Because morning-after pills such as Plan B are progestin-only medications, and many birth control pills contain both estrogen and progesterone, evaluating how many of your pills you should take can be tricky.
Dr. Rahman explained that, in order for your birth control to effectively double as emergency contraception, you'd need to take a dose containing 100 to 120mcg of ethinyl estradiol and 0.5 to 0.6mg of levonorgestrel, then repeat the same dose 12 hours later. "This can be anywhere from four to five pills for the first dose and repeating the same dose in another 12 hours," Dr. Rahman said.
While there are resources available that can help you determine the correct dosage, based on the brand of birth control you take, experts don't recommend going it alone. "Yes, this might seem like an easier and more cost-effective alternative, but it doesn't make it any more effective," Dr. Rahman explained, adding that you should always speak with your doctor before trying the Yuzpe method. This can not only ensure that you're taking the proper dose, but also that this method is a safe option for you, given your medical history. Side effects can range from nausea, vomiting, and breast tenderness, to the more dangerous risk of blood clots.
The Lost Husband Is a Surprise Hit on Netflix - Does That Mean We're Getting a Sequel?
A few months ago, most of us had never heard of The Lost Husband, and now we're all wondering if there will be a sequel! It's all part of the romantic drama's unexpected arc from tiny unknown title to surprise summer favorite. The circumstances that made the movie a hit, though, might not work for lightning to strike twice.
The movie's success has been, in large part, due to the unique demands of the COVID-19 era, when audiences are looking for two specific things in particular: entertainment they can watch at home, and entertainment that's perhaps a little more comforting than usual. The Lost Husband checks both those boxes. It was first released as a VOD title back in April, at the beginning of major shutdowns, then acquired by Netflix. It started streaming there in August, giving it ideal timing to reach audiences at home. Plus, with its small-town, slightly weepy, cheesy romance, it's the kind of comfort watch that many viewers have been seeking during stressful times.
Star Josh Duhamel, for one, agrees. "This is the perfect time for a movie like this to come out because people are at home watching. You know? These are things that they may really want to dive into," he told Entertainment Tonight. "People are sort of stuck at home right now, so they have to either read or watch something and they're trying to keep themselves occupied, and I think that any sort of entertainment is helpful."
So could there be a sequel? And, more importantly, would it have the same kind of success? Right now, the odds are pretty slim on both counts. The Lost Husband has two major things going against it getting a sequel: it's based on a standalone novel (The Lost Husband by Katherine Center), and it's not a Netflix original - it's a licensed title that the service picked up the streaming rights to. Both things would make creating a sequel a little more complicated, and without the unique circumstances that made the original movie such a hit, it simply might not be worth the risk and the hassle.
Prevent Face Mask Cross-Contamination With These 10 Easy-to-Use Cases
Every time I leave the house, I wear a face mask. The more I wear one, the more I realize what I need to make my daily routine easier. While I've found a few choices that I love, there was one thing I was missing: proper storage for it. In between store visits or getting in my car, I sometimes take off my mask and then realize I'm not sure where to put it. Not only do I want to keep it clean, but I also don't want to cross-contaminate with my pocket or inside my purse.
For the last few months, I've been solving this problem with plastic baggies, which seems wasteful. I went on a journey to find a face mask case, and it turns out, I wasn't alone - there is a large selection to shop. To help you find the best one for your needs, I curated a list of the most useful choices I found ahead. Keep reading to shop these top picks.
If You Always Lose Balance During Single-Leg Deadlifts, Try This Modification Instead
I'll give myself some credit: after months of practice, I can now hold a single-leg deadlift on my right leg for a few seconds without falling over, but I can't say the same for my left leg - I've just barely missed the coffee table too many times to count.
According to NASM-certified personal trainer Amanda Katz, unilateral movements - like single-leg deadlifts - often reveal these imbalances within the body, and that's not necessarily a bad thing.
"This gives us a chance to move more efficiently and ultimately, get stronger," Katz says. "Like a traditional deadlift, the single-leg deadlift benefits include stronger glutes, hamstrings, and core. But, with this single-leg variation, you can isolate one glute at a time. Plus, a trainer can immediately see if any deficiencies a client may have that is preventing them from moving functionally - i.e. rotated pelvis may indicate trouble moving laterally."
That doesn't mean you have to just deal with falling over, though. Instead of going from zero to 60, work in a single-leg deadlift modification to build up your balance and perfect your form. "I actually coach that clients keep their rear foot planted. This variation is called the staggered stance," Katz says.
Katz suggests hinging the hips to pick up the load and then checking your posture - your shoulders should be back and your chest proud. Then, one foot is placed forward and the other foot is back, placed about 6-8 inches behind them, with the heel off the floor. The front leg should hold 60-80 percent of the load.
"As the client becomes more comfortable here, the rear foot can go back further," Katz says. "This tip is beneficial because the client feels safe executing a hip hinge with a heavy load as the deadlift is intended, as opposed to losing their balance."
Overall, Katz suggests boosting your strength and balance before attempting to lift the rear leg up off the floor.
As for some other tips that'll improve your performance during single-leg deadlifts? Katz says that working on your core strength will not only make it easier for you to lift your leg off the ground, but also protects the back from rounding. It's also not a bad idea to evaluate your workout shoe choice - Katz loves Nike Metcon because it's flat, which helps keep your foot and ankle stable and in touch with the ground.
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California Is Facing Another Wave of Devastating Wildfires - Here's How You Can Help
In the span of a week, California has been ravaged by three major fire complexes - groups of fires caused by lightning - scattered across the state's northern and central regions. Critical wildfire zones include the LNU Lightning Complex in the northeast Bay Area, the SCU Lightning Complex in the eastern and southeastern Bay Area, and the CZU Lightning Complex in the western and southern Bay Area. The SCU Lightning Complex and LNU Lightning Complex are among the three largest wildfires in California's recorded history. Since the lightning siege first began on Aug. 15, there have been nearly 12,000 lightning strikes that have sparked over 615 new wildfires, which have scorched over 1.3 million acres of land combined - including vital crops and farmland - according to Cal Fire officials.
In total, the fires have wreaked havoc on the equivalent of five New York Cities in land acreage and have taken the lives of at least five people. In the midst of a heatwave, California's unforeseen dry lightning spells now threaten more than 10 million people across the state who are under red-flag warnings brought on by a combination of "warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger," according to the National Weather Service. Even as thousands of firefighters put themselves on the frontlines to battle the raging flames, thousands continue to be displaced from their homes. Read on to find out what you can do right now to support victims of the California wildfires.
Prevent Face Mask Cross-Contamination With These 10 Easy-to-Use Cases
Every time I leave the house, I wear a face mask. The more I wear one, the more I realize what I need to make my daily routine easier. While I've found a few choices that I love, there was one thing I was missing: proper storage for it. In between store visits or getting in my car, I sometimes take off my mask and then realize I'm not sure where to put it. Not only do I want to keep it clean, but I also don't want to cross-contaminate with my pocket or inside my purse.
For the last few months, I've been solving this problem with plastic baggies, which seems wasteful. I went on a journey to find a face mask case, and it turns out, I wasn't alone - there is a large selection to shop. To help you find the best one for your needs, I curated a list of the most useful choices I found ahead. Keep reading to shop these top picks.
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