Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mardi 29 septembre 2020
Dancer Sydney Mesher: "It's Time to Start Reshaping the Perception of the Word Disability"
Image Source: Courtesy of Blaine Covert
Sydney Mesher says she came out of the womb dancing. "It was so natural for me. I grew up with music playing all the time," she told POPSUGAR. "My dad's a huge Rolling Stones fan and took me to a concert when I was age 2." Her parents knew from that point on that she was going to pursue dance, and as she explored movement in different classes, she grew more serious about the craft.
Mesher, 23, was born with a rare congenital condition called symbrachydactyly, which caused her left hand to not develop. Though she got a prosthetic when she was in kindergarten, she didn't wear it for long - it felt unnatural and uncomfortable, she said. "Honestly, in my opinion, it drew more attention to the fact that I didn't have a hand," she explained. "The prosthetic was obviously way different back then - the technology's really advanced now - but you couldn't move it." It was more cosmetic than functional.
Growing up in Oregon, Mesher went to a public high school with a dance performing arts division, and she then studied Fine Arts at Pace University (her degree is a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Commercial Dance). Her focus of dance, she said, is hip-hop and jazz. Though having a limb difference brings its challenges - especially during partner work or using props - it has helped her become a problem solver, which she said benefits her in everyday life and in her career.
Mesher faced some bullying as a dancer but noted she shifted her mindset to push that aside. And, she didn't want to find success because she was being "checked off of a list" as a disabled person; she wanted to find success because she was good at what she did and comfortable in her own skin so that "when I was presenting myself in an audition or in a casting, I deserved to be there and had the talent to show with it."
"I'm all about presenting a new normal in the industry."
Some of her biggest accomplishments to date are dancing for BTS at a 2018 Citi Field concert in New York City. The following year she was in a Hollister campaign. "I'm all about presenting a new normal in the industry because I think it's really important to see diversity in every element, and that job allowed that to happen," Mesher said of the campaign.
Mesher also was the first dancer with a visible disability to perform as a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall. She got the job after her fourth time auditioning and was part of the 2019 production that lasted through the holiday season (this year's Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes shows have been canceled due to COVID-19). Practicing and going out on stage with all of those women, she said, was a highlight for her - and, yes, she still remembers the choreography ("It's drilled into us," she added, laughing).
Mesher said she's accepted the fact that she has a disability - that's the point. "There's a horrible connotation with the word disability. It's people's perception of that word and it doesn't necessarily need to be a bad thing, in my opinion," she said. "It's something that's unique." She acknowledged the fact that her disability is not super limiting, and so that gives her, in part, privilege. That being said, she understands others don't refer to their disabilities in such a positive light, "but I think it's time to start reshaping the perception of the word disability."
When it comes to social media, Mesher has devoted her platforms, especially TikTok, to educating people about her disability in an approachable way. She has over 32,000 followers on TikTok and posts lighthearted videos to note that circulating trends are not always considerate of people with all kinds of abilities and that ableism is real.
In the dance industry, typecasting does happen, Mesher said, though she isn't sure there has ever been an instance where she was not picked for a role because of her limb difference. "I thankfully never experienced any deliberate discrimination like that, but it doesn't mean that it doesn't exist," she said. Her jobs this year have altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but she was able to do some speaking in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), and she intends to return to the Rockettes for the next audition phase.
"A quote that I grew up living by . . . and my dad used to say it to me anytime I faced a hardship . . . was, 'You can do anything that you put your mind to,'" Mesher recalled. She wants other dancers with physical disabilities to keep this idea close - that they can persevere despite seemingly impossible challenges. That barriers can be broken.
This DIY Igloo Dress From the Lizzie McGuire Movie Is Exactly What Dreams Are Made Of
Hilary Duff's Lizzie McGuire fashion moments represent some of the finest style trends from the early aughts, and nearly 20 years after the show first aired, we're still tempted to try on some of her looks for ourselves. As a tribute to Lizzie's chic style, DIY fashion YouTuber April Yang (Coolirpa) re-created the iconic igloo dress from The Lizzie McGuire Movie, and as Isabella and Paolo might say, it's molto bella!
Inspired by the Franca DiMontecatini original, the igloo dress features a faux-fur-lined hood, matching bell sleeves, a peekaboo igloo cutout at the front of the gown, pom-pom buttons down the bodice, and a hand-painted silver ice-block design. Just like Lizzie, April paired the look with faux-fur-lined boots, and we can practically feel the snowflakes raining down around us. Check out the full video to find out exactly how to re-create this look for yourself ahead of Halloween.
Will Smith Reunited With The Fresh Prince Cast For a Tour of the Renovated Bel-Air Mansion
It's been 30 years since The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air first aired, and the cast is taking us straight back to 1990 with their heartwarming reunion. In a video posted to his YouTube channel on Sept. 28, Will Smith gave the cast a tour of the renovated Bel-Air mansion, which is currently being rented out to LA residents for only $30 per night in celebration of the show's 30th anniversary. Tatyana Ali (Ashley Banks), Joseph Marcell (Geoffrey), Karyn Parsons (Hilary Banks), Daphne Maxwell Reid (Aunt Viv), and DJ Jazzy Jeff (Jazz) all made it for the reunion, and it's almost like the Banks family never left.
Inside the mansion, Smith gave a tour of every room that has been redone to reflect his character's '90s aesthetic - yep, there's even a wall of sneakers. The entrance hall even includes a photo of the late James Avery, who played Uncle Phil throughout the series. Before they left, everyone took a moment to sign the graffiti wall in the living room and leave behind a few sweet messages. See the cast walk through their old onscreen home and reflect on memories from their Fresh Prince days here.
These 11 New Podcasts From September 2020 Are Too Good to Miss
If you spend all week waiting for your fave podcast to debut a new episode, then it may be time to add a few new series to your lineup. Whether you're a true-crime aficionado, a comedy-lover, or someone looking to stay informed, it's hard not to find a podcast that piques your interest, and that's definitely true of September's new podcasts. From a wild series about a disgraced prime minister to a podcast hosted by a former presidential candidate, some seriously good series have already debuted this September, and they're definitely worth a listen. Check out the gallery for the best new podcasts so far in September 2020.
lundi 28 septembre 2020
Squeezing in a Workout After Your Flu Shot Could Make the Vaccine More Effective
Just got your flu shot and wondering if it's safe to push through your usual workout? Your arm might be sore for a couple days, but that's no reason to avoid going for a run.
"There is no danger in returning to regular activities after the flu vaccine, including exercise," Carolyn Kaloostian, MD, MPH, a clinical assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, told POPSUGAR. "In fact, small studies have shown increased antibody development (and thus protection) from the flu vaccine after participating in exercise."
This should come as no surprise, as exercise is known to bolster the immune system. That said, it's probably best to avoid strenuous strength workouts while your arm heals.
"Aggressive activity of the vaccinated area may increase the pain after the vaccine," said Michael Ison, MD, professor of infectious diseases at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a practicing physician at Northwestern Medicine. "Aerobic activity won't hurt, but arm weights might be best avoided for the first one or two days after getting the vaccine."
Squeezing in a Workout After Your Flu Shot Could Make the Vaccine More Effective
Just got your flu shot and wondering if it's safe to push through your usual workout? Your arm might be sore for a couple days, but that's no reason to avoid going for a run.
"There is no danger in returning to regular activities after the flu vaccine, including exercise," Carolyn Kaloostian, MD, MPH, a clinical assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, told POPSUGAR. "In fact, small studies have shown increased antibody development (and thus protection) from the flu vaccine after participating in exercise."
This should come as no surprise, as exercise is known to bolster the immune system. That said, it's probably best to avoid strenuous strength workouts while your arm heals.
"Aggressive activity of the vaccinated area may increase the pain after the vaccine," said Michael Ison, MD, professor of infectious diseases at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a practicing physician at Northwestern Medicine. "Aerobic activity won't hurt, but arm weights might be best avoided for the first one or two days after getting the vaccine."
Beginner Cyclists: Check Out These Expert Tips Before Hitting the Road
They say you never forget how to ride a bike, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're fully ready to jump into road cycling as a sport.
Obviously, knowing how to manipulate a bike is an essential part of the workout, but like any activity, cycling involves protocols and best practices that are key for your safety and overall enjoyment - and that goes for beginners and beyond.
If you're thinking about taking up the hobby, check out these tips from Alysha Krall, an Ironman U Certified Coach, before hitting the road.
First, You'll Need a Bike
"The beauty about cycling is that you can never be too young or too old to start," Krall said. "There are many different reasons why someone would want to start cycling. Some people want to explore their towns and countryside, get in shape, stay in shape, spend time with a loved one, do a local century ride, or compete in a triathlon such as an Ironman."
You don't even have be a leisurely cyclist to train for a race. However, what you absolutely do need before getting started, Krall said, is a clear understanding of traffic laws and hand signals - and, of course, the right gear.
A bike will likely be your biggest purchase, and most importantly, Krall said your bike needs to be in good mechanical condition.
"When purchasing your first bike, it is worthwhile to do a little extra research either online or going to talk to your local bike shop," Krall said. "A bike shop can answer questions you may have, recommend different bikes, and tell you about all the local paths and trails to ride on."
As with any new activity, be sure to get the go ahead from your doctor first.
Purchase Safety Equipment
A helmet is a nonnegotiable, so don't saddle up without one. Krall also suggested lights for your bike and a flat repair kit. "You will need a spare tube, hand pump, and tire levers at the bare minimum."
Gear Up
Here's your excuse to buy another pair of bike shorts! While they're not considered essential, Krall said they are valuable for rides that are longer than an hour.
What you definitely need on you, though, is your phone, water, cash, a credit card, or both.
"In addition to those essentials, tell someone the route you are going," Krall said. "It is always better to be over-prepared than underprepared"
Snacks aren't required, but if you have room in your pockets, Krall said to feel free to bring them along, too.
Plan Your Route Wisely
When it comes to mapping out your first ride, Krall said to take your personal fitness level and your confidence on your bike into consideration. As a rule, and to reduce the chances of painful injuries, it's better to start with shorter rides and add on as you feel more comfortable.
"Doing loops around your neighborhood the first couple of rides is a great place to start. Go five miles and, if you're feeling great, do another loop!"
After you've figured out your mileage, you'll probably want to plan when to take that ride.
"Cycling is supposed to be fun, and you should do it when it best fits your schedule," Krall said. "Some people take their bikes to work and cycle on their lunch break. Some go after work or before dinner. Biking to and from work is also an option, but I would not recommend it during your first week of cycling."
If you do plan on biking to and from work, Krall said you should own all-weather cycling gear and have front and rear lights installed on your bike.
If you can do so safely, consider making cycling a group activity. "One of the best things with cycling is biking with a buddy, so get your friends and family on a bike, too!"
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
The Pros and Cons of Running a Marathon on a Treadmill, According to Experts
Marathon season in 2020 has gone virtual, which probably means your 26.2-mile training plan probably needs some revisions - especially if you're going the treadmill route.
It's an untraditional approach to marathons for sure, but Alexandra Weissner, NASM-certified personal trainer, RRCA-certified running coach, and the cofounder bRUNch Running, confirmed that it's possible with the right training.
"If you are going to run a marathon on a treadmill, you need to do all of your training on a treadmill. You need your body to adapt to running long distances and train your mind to be on the treadmill for that long of a period," she said.
Weissner's fellow RRCA-certified running coach and bRUNch Running Cofounder Cortney Logan agreed: "Don't just hop on a treadmill and think, 'Gee, I'll run 26.2 miles today.' Be smart about it."
Surprisingly enough, there are positives to treadmill marathons that could motivate you to make the switch.
The first advantage Weissner mentioned is how much easier it is to use the bathroom – a dilemma she's faced during her two land marathons.
Thanks to the treadmill, you could beat your marathon personal record, too. Weissner said that the belt tends to assist in leg turnover, which can help you run faster.
Another plus from Weissner: treadmills often have more give than roads, which can be easier on your knees.
Logan also loves that you have total control over your running environment, as opposed to being outside and at the mercy of the weather.
Those reasons (along with the bragging rights that come with running a treadmill marathon!) could be the silver linings you need to overcome the downsides of indoor marathon running.
While the tread belt can make you faster, Logan said that it has the unfortunate potential to compromise your gait and cause injury because your hamstrings are doing less work.
And the biggest elephant in the room: running 26.2 miles on a treadmill can be, well, boring.
"No matter what, running a marathon is a challenge. It takes hours of training, dedication, sacrifice, and it's hard AF. I think running a marathon on a treadmill would be an even harder mental challenge. You have to mentally prepare yourself to spend several hours on the treadmill," Weissner said.
Logan's solution is to listen to music and podcasts, call friends, and have your roommates (if safe!) come cheer you on in person.
If you plan on watching TV or movies mid-marathon, Weissner recommended setting up your screen so you aren't looking down for long periods - your neck will thank you in the long run.
You can also break up your marathon into different workouts with intervals that change your pace and incline. With that said, Weissner explained that you should always run on some sort of incline when on a treadmill.
"Even a flat road is not really flat. Running on a treadmill without any incline can cause overuse injuries. You need to have at least a small incline when running on the treadmill," she said.
And when clocking all those miles on a machine, make sure your equipment is in good condition.
"Running on a treadmill belt provides a more 'cushioned' running experience, which sounds lovely, but, actually can be very stressful on your hips, knees, and ankles if you are running a belt that isn't smooth or jarring - it is critical that the treadmill be in prime working condition," Logan added.
Yes, this fall weather is perfect for outdoor training, but if you're serious about a treadmill marathon, it's time you start training on one.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
Beginner Cyclists: Check Out These Expert Tips Before Hitting the Road
They say you never forget how to ride a bike, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're fully ready to jump into road cycling as a sport.
Obviously, knowing how to manipulate a bike is an essential part of the workout, but like any activity, cycling involves protocols and best practices that are key for your safety and overall enjoyment - and that goes for beginners and beyond.
If you're thinking about taking up the hobby, check out these tips from Alysha Krall, an Ironman U Certified Coach, before hitting the road.
First, You'll Need a Bike
"The beauty about cycling is that you can never be too young or too old to start," Krall said. "There are many different reasons why someone would want to start cycling. Some people want to explore their towns and countryside, get in shape, stay in shape, spend time with a loved one, do a local century ride, or compete in a triathlon such as an Ironman."
You don't even have be a leisurely cyclist to train for a race. However, what you absolutely do need before getting started, Krall said, is a clear understanding of traffic laws and hand signals - and, of course, the right gear.
A bike will likely be your biggest purchase, and most importantly, Krall said your bike needs to be in good mechanical condition.
"When purchasing your first bike, it is worthwhile to do a little extra research either online or going to talk to your local bike shop," Krall said. "A bike shop can answer questions you may have, recommend different bikes, and tell you about all the local paths and trails to ride on."
As with any new activity, be sure to get the go ahead from your doctor first.
Purchase Safety Equipment
A helmet is a nonnegotiable, so don't saddle up without one. Krall also suggested lights for your bike and a flat repair kit. "You will need a spare tube, hand pump, and tire levers at the bare minimum."
Gear Up
Here's your excuse to buy another pair of bike shorts! While they're not considered essential, Krall said they are valuable for rides that are longer than an hour.
What you definitely need on you, though, is your phone, water, cash, a credit card, or both.
"In addition to those essentials, tell someone the route you are going," Krall said. "It is always better to be over-prepared than underprepared"
Snacks aren't required, but if you have room in your pockets, Krall said to feel free to bring them along, too.
Plan Your Route Wisely
When it comes to mapping out your first ride, Krall said to take your personal fitness level and your confidence on your bike into consideration. As a rule, and to reduce the chances of painful injuries, it's better to start with shorter rides and add on as you feel more comfortable.
"Doing loops around your neighborhood the first couple of rides is a great place to start. Go five miles and, if you're feeling great, do another loop!"
After you've figured out your mileage, you'll probably want to plan when to take that ride.
"Cycling is supposed to be fun, and you should do it when it best fits your schedule," Krall said. "Some people take their bikes to work and cycle on their lunch break. Some go after work or before dinner. Biking to and from work is also an option, but I would not recommend it during your first week of cycling."
If you do plan on biking to and from work, Krall said you should own all-weather cycling gear and have front and rear lights installed on your bike.
If you can do so safely, consider making cycling a group activity. "One of the best things with cycling is biking with a buddy, so get your friends and family on a bike, too!"
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
The Pros and Cons of Running a Marathon on a Treadmill, According to Experts
Marathon season in 2020 has gone virtual, which probably means your 26.2-mile training plan probably needs some revisions - especially if you're going the treadmill route.
It's an untraditional approach to marathons for sure, but Alexandra Weissner, NASM-certified personal trainer, RRCA-certified running coach, and the cofounder bRUNch Running, confirmed that it's possible with the right training.
"If you are going to run a marathon on a treadmill, you need to do all of your training on a treadmill. You need your body to adapt to running long distances and train your mind to be on the treadmill for that long of a period," she said.
Weissner's fellow RRCA-certified running coach and bRUNch Running Cofounder Cortney Logan agreed: "Don't just hop on a treadmill and think, 'Gee, I'll run 26.2 miles today.' Be smart about it."
Surprisingly enough, there are positives to treadmill marathons that could motivate you to make the switch.
The first advantage Weissner mentioned is how much easier it is to use the bathroom – a dilemma she's faced during her two land marathons.
Thanks to the treadmill, you could beat your marathon personal record, too. Weissner said that the belt tends to assist in leg turnover, which can help you run faster.
Another plus from Weissner: treadmills often have more give than roads, which can be easier on your knees.
Logan also loves that you have total control over your running environment, as opposed to being outside and at the mercy of the weather.
Those reasons (along with the bragging rights that come with running a treadmill marathon!) could be the silver linings you need to overcome the downsides of indoor marathon running.
While the tread belt can make you faster, Logan said that it has the unfortunate potential to compromise your gait and cause injury because your hamstrings are doing less work.
And the biggest elephant in the room: running 26.2 miles on a treadmill can be, well, boring.
"No matter what, running a marathon is a challenge. It takes hours of training, dedication, sacrifice, and it's hard AF. I think running a marathon on a treadmill would be an even harder mental challenge. You have to mentally prepare yourself to spend several hours on the treadmill," Weissner said.
Logan's solution is to listen to music and podcasts, call friends, and have your roommates (if safe!) come cheer you on in person.
If you plan on watching TV or movies mid-marathon, Weissner recommended setting up your screen so you aren't looking down for long periods - your neck will thank you in the long run.
You can also break up your marathon into different workouts with intervals that change your pace and incline. With that said, Weissner explained that you should always run on some sort of incline when on a treadmill.
"Even a flat road is not really flat. Running on a treadmill without any incline can cause overuse injuries. You need to have at least a small incline when running on the treadmill," she said.
And when clocking all those miles on a machine, make sure your equipment is in good condition.
"Running on a treadmill belt provides a more 'cushioned' running experience, which sounds lovely, but, actually can be very stressful on your hips, knees, and ankles if you are running a belt that isn't smooth or jarring - it is critical that the treadmill be in prime working condition," Logan added.
Yes, this fall weather is perfect for outdoor training, but if you're serious about a treadmill marathon, it's time you start training on one.
Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.
If Fashion Week Was Still a Thing, I Bet I'd Get Photographed in Fear of God's New Collection
Getting photographed at Fashion Week is the ultimate form of approval for style-obsessed fashion girls like me. Sadly, it hasn't happened. I've tried casual chic, in-your-face designer logos, and outlandish fashion trends, and nothing ever works. For years now, I've had guarded optimism that it would, but now I'm convinced that if our regular Fashion Month programming were still in session (thanks COVID), I would be a shoe-in for the style icon pages if I was dressed in Fear of God's new collection.
Black fashion designer Jerry Lorenzo hit it out of the park with his latest collection for Fear of God, entitled "7th Collection." Inspired by easy elegance, the collection became a reality after two years in the making. All made in Italy and from specific Italian mills, it's the first time that we see any suiting come out of Fear of God, and it is a welcome change. I really appreciate that each outfit can be worn in all seasons, dressed down or dressed up. I think Lorenzo completely nailed that easy elegance he was after with the low-shouldered, cropped-sleeve tailoring and outerwear pieces in this collection. The styling is so brilliantly minimalist, featuring no hardware, but fanny packs and backpacks against luxury leathers and wool blends.
It's really such a bummer than New York Fashion Week was only partially live - at 50 percent occupancy - and partially virtual this year, because this collection is so worthy of an in-person moment, undoubtedly, one that would guarantee heads to turn and cameras to snap. Truly such a vibe. Read through to view some of my favorite looks from the 7th Collection, and let's all live our Fashion Week outfit dreams through Fear of God.
5 YouTube Yoga Instructors That'll Help You Expand Your At-Home Practice
I appreciate the YouTube community now more than ever, as the platform's yoga creators are making my practice away from the studio seem a little less limited - in fact, they've taken my flows to a whole new level.
Through their teachings, I'm getting physical relief after sitting at my couch desk all day along with spiritual guidance, modified teachings, themed flows, and meditation sessions.
After completing a yoga video by the following experts, my body and mind feel rejuvenated. Check them out if you need to invigorate your at-home practice. I have a feeling you'll be lingering around their pages after just one flow.
End Your Next At-Home Cycling Workout With This 4-Move Arm-Strengthening Circuit
Since buying an at-home bike, I've found myself slacking on my arm-strengthening exercises. After 30 minutes of continuous pedaling, my legs are beat, and my sports bra is soaked - so it's pretty easy to just call it a day.
But strength training is what's going to help me build up and define my biceps and triceps, so adding an arms circuit to the end of my ride is on the agenda. For tips on what exercises to perform, I turned to Sarah Pelc Graca, the founder of Strong with Sarah, an NASM-certified personal trainer, and indoor cycling Instructor at Cyclebar in Chicago.
Graca confirmed that strength training will not only help with muscle growth but it could help make the metabolism work more efficiently - as more muscle is linked to burning more calories.
For the workout ahead, you'll want to get off your bike, so Graca suggests choosing weights that challenge you but also allow you to perform the move safely and correctly. "If you find you're losing proper form, then switch over to a lighter set of weights," Graca says.
Since your body is already warmed up from the cycling workout, you can head right into the segment created by Graca ahead. Take up to one minute of rest between exercises, or as needed. When you are finished with the circuit, Graca recommends cooling down with static stretches.
"Depending on the muscles you work, stretch your shoulders and triceps, do a back stretch such as a Child's Pose, and you can also use a wall or doorway to do a chest stretch. Any sort of upper body static stretches are the safest to do."
If Fashion Week Was Still a Thing, I Bet I'd Get Photographed in Fear of God's New Collection
Getting photographed at Fashion Week is the ultimate form of approval for style-obsessed fashion girls like me. Sadly, it hasn't happened. I've tried casual chic, in-your-face designer logos, and outlandish fashion trends, and nothing ever works. For years now, I've had guarded optimism that it would, but now I'm convinced that if our regular Fashion Month programming were still in session (thanks COVID), I would be a shoe-in for the style icon pages if I was dressed in Fear of God's new collection.
Black fashion designer Jerry Lorenzo hit it out of the park with his latest collection for Fear of God, entitled "7th Collection." Inspired by easy elegance, the collection became a reality after two years in the making. All made in Italy and from specific Italian mills, it's the first time that we see any suiting come out of Fear of God, and it is a welcome change. I really appreciate that each outfit can be worn in all seasons, dressed down or dressed up. I think Lorenzo completely nailed that easy elegance he was after with the low-shouldered, cropped-sleeve tailoring and outerwear pieces in this collection. The styling is so brilliantly minimalist, featuring no hardware, but fanny packs and backpacks against luxury leathers and wool blends.
It's really such a bummer than New York Fashion Week was only partially live - at 50 percent occupancy - and partially virtual this year, because this collection is so worthy of an in-person moment, undoubtedly, one that would guarantee heads to turn and cameras to snap. Truly such a vibe. Read through to view some of my favorite looks from the 7th Collection, and let's all live our Fashion Week outfit dreams through Fear of God.
5 YouTube Yoga Instructors That'll Help You Expand Your At-Home Practice
I appreciate the YouTube community now more than ever, as the platform's yoga creators are making my practice away from the studio seem a little less limited - in fact, they've taken my flows to a whole new level.
Through their teachings, I'm getting physical relief after sitting at my couch desk all day along with spiritual guidance, modified teachings, themed flows, and meditation sessions.
After completing a yoga video by the following experts, my body and mind feel rejuvenated. Check them out if you need to invigorate your at-home practice. I have a feeling you'll be lingering around their pages after just one flow.
End Your Next At-Home Cycling Workout With This 4-Move Arm-Strengthening Circuit
Since buying an at-home bike, I've found myself slacking on my arm-strengthening exercises. After 30 minutes of continuous pedaling, my legs are beat, and my sports bra is soaked - so it's pretty easy to just call it a day.
But strength training is what's going to help me build up and define my biceps and triceps, so adding an arms circuit to the end of my ride is on the agenda. For tips on what exercises to perform, I turned to Sarah Pelc Graca, the founder of Strong with Sarah, an NASM-certified personal trainer, and indoor cycling Instructor at Cyclebar in Chicago.
Graca confirmed that strength training will not only help with muscle growth but it could help make the metabolism work more efficiently - as more muscle is linked to burning more calories.
For the workout ahead, you'll want to get off your bike, so Graca suggests choosing weights that challenge you but also allow you to perform the move safely and correctly. "If you find you're losing proper form, then switch over to a lighter set of weights," Graca says.
Since your body is already warmed up from the cycling workout, you can head right into the segment created by Graca ahead. Take up to one minute of rest between exercises, or as needed. When you are finished with the circuit, Graca recommends cooling down with static stretches.
"Depending on the muscles you work, stretch your shoulders and triceps, do a back stretch such as a Child's Pose, and you can also use a wall or doorway to do a chest stretch. Any sort of upper body static stretches are the safest to do."
Think Enola Holmes's Louis Partridge Is Adorable? Check Out These Facts About Him
As the charming Lord Tewksbury in Enola Holmes, Louis Partridge is sure to steal your heart quicker than you can say "the game is afoot!" Although you may have seen him before (he's appeared in Paddington 2 and Medici), his role in Netflix's Enola Holmes proves he's certainly one to watch - especially given his ability to hold his own with costar Millie Bobby Brown. The 17-year-old British actor - who is still in school in the UK - plans to continue acting once he graduates, which is excellent news for us. He currently has a few projects in the pipeline, including 2021's The Lost Girls, which is a darker take on Peter Pan and follows an older Wendy. Until then, get to know all about the talented actor.
Think Enola Holmes's Louis Partridge Is Adorable? Check Out These Facts About Him
As the charming Lord Tewksbury in Enola Holmes, Louis Partridge is sure to steal your heart quicker than you can say "the game is afoot!" Although you may have seen him before (he's appeared in Paddington 2 and Medici), his role in Netflix's Enola Holmes proves he's certainly one to watch - especially given his ability to hold his own with costar Millie Bobby Brown. The 17-year-old British actor - who is still in school in the UK - plans to continue acting once he graduates, which is excellent news for us. He currently has a few projects in the pipeline, including 2021's The Lost Girls, which is a darker take on Peter Pan and follows an older Wendy. Until then, get to know all about the talented actor.
The Vow: Barbara Bouchey and Keith Raniere Dated For Nearly a Decade Before She Fled NXIVM
Image Source: YouTube user TODAY
HBO's The Vow dives deep into the history of NXIVM and its former members, including founder Keith Raniere's ex-girlfriend, Barbara Bouchey. Bouchey first met Raniere in the spring of 2000 through her friend and former therapist, Nancy Salzman. Bouchey - who was working as a financial planner - was going through a divorce at the time, so Salzman encouraged her to join the "self-help group," where she was introduced to Raniere. "Keith was a very dynamic person," Bouchey said in a 2018 interview with Megyn Kelly. "He was very soft-spoken, very engaging in dialogues. He was funny, he was witty, he could play the piano."
A few months later, a romantic connection formed between Bouchey and Raniere, and the two began dating. "Dating Keith Raniere did not look like going to dinner or a weekend at the beach. Keith didn't do those kind of social things," she explained. "My observation of how it looked to other people was I was his soulmate, his companion, and his significant girlfriend."
"I was his soulmate, his companion, and his significant girlfriend."
Even though Bouchey initially believed she and Raniere were in a committed relationship, she later found out that he was involved with 12 other women from the organization. "I didn't know for a year that there was anybody else he was involved with," Bouchey said. "I and other people got to see the glimmers of this dark side of Keith and the abuse within his inner circle that started to trickle down."
By 2009, Bouchey decided to break things off with Raniere and leave NXIVM for good. "I gave it the Girl Scout try, I really did," Bouchey said. After fleeing the cult, Bouchey then found herself being harassed by Raniere's followers and eventually became a whistleblower, one of the "NXIVM Nine," who confronted Raniere about the abuse in the group and notified authorities. Raniere is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, NY, where he is awaiting sentencing for convictions of racketeering, sex trafficking, and forced labor conspiracy.
The Vow: Barbara Bouchey and Keith Raniere Dated For Nearly a Decade Before She Fled NXIVM
Image Source: YouTube user TODAY
HBO's The Vow dives deep into the history of NXIVM and its former members, including founder Keith Raniere's ex-girlfriend, Barbara Bouchey. Bouchey first met Raniere in the spring of 2000 through her friend and former therapist, Nancy Salzman. Bouchey - who was working as a financial planner - was going through a divorce at the time, so Salzman encouraged her to join the "self-help group," where she was introduced to Raniere. "Keith was a very dynamic person," Bouchey said in a 2018 interview with Megyn Kelly. "He was very soft-spoken, very engaging in dialogues. He was funny, he was witty, he could play the piano."
A few months later, a romantic connection formed between Bouchey and Raniere, and the two began dating. "Dating Keith Raniere did not look like going to dinner or a weekend at the beach. Keith didn't do those kind of social things," she explained. "My observation of how it looked to other people was I was his soulmate, his companion, and his significant girlfriend."
"I was his soulmate, his companion, and his significant girlfriend."
Even though Bouchey initially believed she and Raniere were in a committed relationship, she later found out that he was involved with 12 other women from the organization. "I didn't know for a year that there was anybody else he was involved with," Bouchey said. "I and other people got to see the glimmers of this dark side of Keith and the abuse within his inner circle that started to trickle down."
By 2009, Bouchey decided to break things off with Raniere and leave NXIVM for good. "I gave it the Girl Scout try, I really did," Bouchey said. After fleeing the cult, Bouchey then found herself being harassed by Raniere's followers and eventually became a whistleblower, one of the "NXIVM Nine," who confronted Raniere about the abuse in the group and notified authorities. Raniere is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, NY, where he is awaiting sentencing for convictions of racketeering, sex trafficking, and forced labor conspiracy.
The Vow: What Happened to Kristin Keeffe and Why She Went Off the Grid
Episode five of HBO's The Vow takes a deep dive into Keith Raniere's shady dealings, focusing on his DOS group and the convoluted efforts to clear his name. The episode opens with a clip of former NXIVM legal liaison Kristin Keeffe as she ardently defends NXIVM's troubles with the law. Soon, The Vow shifts to Keeffe voicing her suspicions against Raniere, and it becomes strikingly clear that she has a lot of information on NXIVM. But Keeffe wasn't just a high-ranking member who defected. From 2007 to 2014, she was Raniere's partner, and they even had a son together named Gaelyn. Worrying for her and her son's well-being, Keeffe eventually left Raniere and NXIVM in 2014.
So what is Keeffe's story with Raniere? Keeffe was an Executive Success Program proctor in NXIVM and worked closely with lawyers to combat lawsuits against the company. She also targeted people spreading negative press about Raniere and Nancy Salzman, his NXIVM cofounder. Keeffe was even involved with Mark Vicente's unreleased film to clear Raniere's name. And beyond a professional relationship with Raniere, she had a baby with him. The New York Post initially reported that Gaelyn was an adopted orphan as opposed to their biological son. Purportedly, Raniere ordered Keeffe to go with this story because he wanted to maintain his persona as someone who was celibate. In the 2019 Investigation Discovery documentary The Lost Women of NXIVM, Frank Parlato, a known NXIVM defector and reporter, said that Keeffe wasn't aware of her pregnancy until weeks before her son's birth. Raniere kept her, like many of the women in his inner circle, very thin.
Keeffe went off the grid in 2014, concerned about her and her son's safety. She worried about Raniere conducting experiments on their son. Raniere reportedly gave orders to keep Gaelyn away from peers and to only allow him to be cared for by five nannies who each spoke a different language. Keeffe also learned about financial wrongdoings in NXIVM that made her want to leave. According to Parlato, Keeffe and Gaelyn stayed at one of his apartments in the Florida Keys for a year as they hid from Raniere.
As we see in the episode, Keeffe tried very hard to disappear, using burner phones as she helped other defectors build a case against Raniere. According to a piece by The Times Union, Keeffe alleged in 2015 that Raniere directed Canadian investigative firm Canaprobe to obtain financial information on six federal judges and a US senator as well as a reporter, an editor, and the publisher of The Times Union. She also alleged that Raniere was luring his critics into Mexico to be arrested on false charges. While Keeffe didn't testify against Raniere, she said in the Investigation Discovery special that she worked closely with the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security to bring him down.
Keeffe and her son are presumably still off the grid today.
The Vow: Everything We Know About Pam Cafritz's Life and Mysterious Death
In episode four of HBO's The Vow, we meet the anonymous Jane, a filmmaker and former DOS member. During her time in NXIVM, Jane learned of Pam (or Pamela) Cafritz's death and even created a memorial video for her. While we only hear of her briefly in the docuseries, Pam Cafritz is an important name when it comes to decoding everything that went down in NXIVM. Not only did she rank high in the organization, but she was also Keith Raniere's life partner. Cafritz supported him and his career to the point of enabling his darkest crimes. Even after she died, Cafritz remained relevant to his organization - here's how her story fits into NXIVM's bigger picture.
Cafritz's Life Before NXIVM
Cafritz was the daughter of Washington socialites Buffy and William Cafritz. In old footage featured in the docuseries, Raniere and Cafritz describe meeting at a ski trip when they were younger. Cafritz became closely involved with Raniere in the '90s when he launched Consumers' Buyline Inc. When the government accused CBI of being a pyramid scheme, she and Karen Unterreiner signed a consent agreement with prosecutors admitting their roles in CBI.
Cafritz's Complicity in NXIVM's Dark Side
When Raniere started NXIVM, Cafritz cofounded Jness, a women's group in NXIVM that focused on how gender influences women's roles in society and their relationships. Before her death, not only did Cafritz support Raniere as a business and romantic partner, but she also enabled his sketchy dealings. Cafritz has been brought up often by "Daniela," an undocumented woman who was a DOS slave kept in a house against her will for two years. When Daniela became impregnated by Raniere, Cafritz guided her through an abortion at a doctor's office. Daniela believes that Cafritz's role was to shield Raniere from liability, that she was "the defuser of bombs" who would "neutralize others."
Cafritz's complicit behavior can also be traced back to the '90s during Raniere's CBI days. According to The Times Union, she reportedly hired a 12-year-old girl to walk her dog, encouraging the girl to visit the townhouse she shared with Raniere. Later, Raniere raped the underage victim, whose mother worked for his company. He allegedly had around 60 sexual encounters with her. Two years later, in 1993, the girl reported the abuse to the police. She eventually signed a waiver saying that the claim that Raniere had sex with her was true but that she wouldn't press charges.
The Circumstances of Cafritz's Death
Cafritz reportedly died of renal cancer at age 57 in 2016. But there were rumors about Raniere poisoning her to get $8 million, which she allegedly bequeathed to him in her will. Frank Parlato, a well-known NXIVM defector, believes that Cafritz was poisoned. He has pointed out that Raniere managed her treatment and diet, as well as other women's.
After Cafritz died, Raniere and his co-conspirators used her identity and her credit card, charging over $300,000. But if Raniere did, in fact, inherit Cafritz's assets, why did he use her card? During Raniere's trial, Assistant US Attorney Moira Penza told the jury in her closing statement: "Why did he use Pam Cafritz's credit card after she was dead to fund his lifestyle? To avoid paying taxes." According to Penza, the "ultimate goal" for NXIVM and Raniere was zero tax.
The Vow: What Happened to Kristin Keeffe and Why She Went Off the Grid
Episode five of HBO's The Vow takes a deep dive into Keith Raniere's shady dealings, focusing on his DOS group and the convoluted efforts to clear his name. The episode opens with a clip of former NXIVM legal liaison Kristin Keeffe as she ardently defends NXIVM's troubles with the law. Soon, The Vow shifts to Keeffe voicing her suspicions against Raniere, and it becomes strikingly clear that she has a lot of information on NXIVM. But Keeffe wasn't just a high-ranking member who defected. From 2007 to 2014, she was Raniere's partner, and they even had a son together named Gaelyn. Worrying for her and her son's well-being, Keeffe eventually left Raniere and NXIVM in 2014.
So what is Keeffe's story with Raniere? Keeffe was an Executive Success Program proctor in NXIVM and worked closely with lawyers to combat lawsuits against the company. She also targeted people spreading negative press about Raniere and Nancy Salzman, his NXIVM cofounder. Keeffe was even involved with Mark Vicente's unreleased film to clear Raniere's name. And beyond a professional relationship with Raniere, she had a baby with him. The New York Post initially reported that Gaelyn was an adopted orphan as opposed to their biological son. Purportedly, Raniere ordered Keeffe to go with this story because he wanted to maintain his persona as someone who was celibate. In the 2019 Investigation Discovery documentary The Lost Women of NXIVM, Frank Parlato, a known NXIVM defector and reporter, said that Keeffe wasn't aware of her pregnancy until weeks before her son's birth. Raniere kept her, like many of the women in his inner circle, very thin.
Keeffe went off the grid in 2014, concerned about her and her son's safety. She worried about Raniere conducting experiments on their son. Raniere reportedly gave orders to keep Gaelyn away from peers and to only allow him to be cared for by five nannies who each spoke a different language. Keeffe also learned about financial wrongdoings in NXIVM that made her want to leave. According to Parlato, Keeffe and Gaelyn stayed at one of his apartments in the Florida Keys for a year as they hid from Raniere.
As we see in the episode, Keeffe tried very hard to disappear, using burner phones as she helped other defectors build a case against Raniere. According to a piece by The Times Union, Keeffe alleged in 2015 that Raniere directed Canadian investigative firm Canaprobe to obtain financial information on six federal judges and a US senator as well as a reporter, an editor, and the publisher of The Times Union. She also alleged that Raniere was luring his critics into Mexico to be arrested on false charges. While Keeffe didn't testify against Raniere, she said in the Investigation Discovery special that she worked closely with the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security to bring him down.
Keeffe and her son are presumably still off the grid today.
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