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.

vendredi 6 novembre 2020

5 Low-Impact Cardio Substitutions That Won't Destroy Your Knees (or Annoy Your Neighbors)

Whether you have limited space for plyometrics and calisthenics, or you're trying to be a little kinder to your joints (hello, knees!), there are some easy substitutions you can make to classic high-impact cardio exercises. To get the best modifications, we talked to two low-impact experts.

"Just because these moves are low-impact doesn't mean you won't work up a sweat," Lexy Parsons, a yoga instructor and IIN health coach, told POPSUGAR. "You can still get your heart rate up, and these moves can be just as challenging as a high-impact alternative. Low-impact doesn't mean low-intensity! It's all about the intensity you bring to it."

There are several added benefits of switching to low-impact moves, including that they're more accessible to the elderly, injured, and pregnant populations. "It's no secret that high-impact and high-intensity cardio workouts burn fat at a faster rate and in a short period," said Amina Barnes, an NASM-certified personal trainer. "But for beginners, especially those who've had previous injuries, it's important to start slowly and improve your strength and mobility over time. Lower-impact exercise moves allow you to leave one foot on the ground and tend to be gentler on your joints and muscles."

In addition, you'll be building functional strength. "These exercises are incredibly stabilizing; you're fine-tuning your body in a way," Parsons explained. "You'll gain more flexibility and control, while working your core." Barnes agreed, adding: "There are so many low-impact alternative exercise moves that still give you an intense, heart-pumping workout without increasing your risk for injury and muscle fatigue." Here are five of the best.

We Found Gifting Options For Every Single Night of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is coming up, and our holiday routine is as follows; after we've lit the menorah and eaten our weight in latkes, it's time for presents. Different families do things differently, with some exchanging presents on all eight nights, and others only gifting on the last night of the holiday, but whatever your tradition, we're here to help find the presents your friends and family will love.

These 28 presents are exactly what we'd like to receive this Hanukkah. Whether you want a new menorah, some fun beauty products, or just copious amounts of babka, we've got you covered. Plus, all these picks are great things to send to family members near and far. Keep on reading to shop our picks.

Chrissy Teigen's "Drunken" Noodles Recipe Is an Experience You Need to Have

Cravings by Chrissy Teigen does it again with this drunken noodles recipe, though this time courtesy of her mom, Pepper. Chrissy says these noodles come in a close second to Pepper's legendary pad thai, which is - if we're honest - no small acclaim. According to Chrissy and Pepper, this kee mao noodle dish is said to be so zesty and flavorful that it could still be thoroughly tasted by anyone drunk, hence its directly translated name: "drunk person." Whether or not that part is true, the recipe itself definitely does not disappoint or by any means offer empty promises. Follow along with this re-creation, and let the experience speak for itself!












Pepper's Drunken Noodles

Cravings by Chrissy Teigen

Ingredients

  1. 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced
    1 tablespoon soy sauce
    5 bird's eye chili peppers
    4-5 cloves garlic
    2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or more regular soy sauce)
    2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    1/2 small onion, diced
    4 spring onion greens, sliced (or scallions)
    1 cup lightly packed Thai basil leaves (or any variety of fresh basil)
    5 ounces fresh pad see ew rice noodles (less than half a bag)
    Salt to taste

Directions

  1. Combine the chicken and soy sauce in a bowl and toss to thoroughly coat the chicken. Set aside to marinate briefly.
  2. Lightly mash together the chilies and garlic using a mortar and pestle or the back of a chef’s knife; the more you mash them, the spicier the mix will be. Heat the oil in a large, high-sided pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the chili-garlic mixture. Sauté, stirring often, until aromatic (be careful not to burn the garlic), 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken and sauté, stirring, until just about cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the noodles from the package, gently un-peel them, and add to the pan along with the chicken. Add the light soy sauce and toss to coat. Add onions, and cook, stirring often, until lightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the spring onion greens, basil, and a pinch of salt, and toss to thoroughly combine everything. Remove from the heat and serve.

We Found Gifting Options For Every Single Night of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is coming up, and our holiday routine is as follows; after we've lit the menorah and eaten our weight in latkes, it's time for presents. Different families do things differently, with some exchanging presents on all eight nights, and others only gifting on the last night of the holiday, but whatever your tradition, we're here to help find the presents your friends and family will love.

These 28 presents are exactly what we'd like to receive this Hanukkah. Whether you want a new menorah, some fun beauty products, or just copious amounts of babka, we've got you covered. Plus, all these picks are great things to send to family members near and far. Keep on reading to shop our picks.

Chrissy Teigen's "Drunken" Noodles Recipe Is an Experience You Need to Have

Cravings by Chrissy Teigen does it again with this drunken noodles recipe, though this time courtesy of her mom, Pepper. Chrissy says these noodles come in a close second to Pepper's legendary pad thai, which is - if we're honest - no small acclaim. According to Chrissy and Pepper, this kee mao noodle dish is said to be so zesty and flavorful that it could still be thoroughly tasted by anyone drunk, hence its directly translated name: "drunk person." Whether or not that part is true, the recipe itself definitely does not disappoint or by any means offer empty promises. Follow along with this re-creation, and let the experience speak for itself!












Pepper's Drunken Noodles

Cravings by Chrissy Teigen

Ingredients

  1. 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced
    1 tablespoon soy sauce
    5 bird's eye chili peppers
    4-5 cloves garlic
    2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or more regular soy sauce)
    2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    1/2 small onion, diced
    4 spring onion greens, sliced (or scallions)
    1 cup lightly packed Thai basil leaves (or any variety of fresh basil)
    5 ounces fresh pad see ew rice noodles (less than half a bag)
    Salt to taste

Directions

  1. Combine the chicken and soy sauce in a bowl and toss to thoroughly coat the chicken. Set aside to marinate briefly.
  2. Lightly mash together the chilies and garlic using a mortar and pestle or the back of a chef’s knife; the more you mash them, the spicier the mix will be. Heat the oil in a large, high-sided pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the chili-garlic mixture. Sauté, stirring often, until aromatic (be careful not to burn the garlic), 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken and sauté, stirring, until just about cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the noodles from the package, gently un-peel them, and add to the pan along with the chicken. Add the light soy sauce and toss to coat. Add onions, and cook, stirring often, until lightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the spring onion greens, basil, and a pinch of salt, and toss to thoroughly combine everything. Remove from the heat and serve.

Let It Glow! 85 Bath & Body Works Holiday Candles That'll Make Your Home Merry and Bright

Drumroll, please! Bath & Body Works holiday candles have arrived, and they have more than 20 sweet-smelling scents to choose from. Whether you're looking to fill your bedroom with the cozy smell of sweater weather or your kitchen with the familiar scent of hot cocoa and cream - you name it, Bath & Body Works has a candle for it. With options that range from single to three wicks, you can ensure each candle's aroma will fill your entire home with holiday goodness. Set the tone for sweaters, comfort food, and a new freakin' year, with the 85 Bath & Body Works holiday candles, ahead. And don't forget to check out Bath & Body Works' entire holiday collection while you're at it!

Let It Glow! 85 Bath & Body Works Holiday Candles That'll Make Your Home Merry and Bright

Drumroll, please! Bath & Body Works holiday candles have arrived, and they have more than 20 sweet-smelling scents to choose from. Whether you're looking to fill your bedroom with the cozy smell of sweater weather or your kitchen with the familiar scent of hot cocoa and cream - you name it, Bath & Body Works has a candle for it. With options that range from single to three wicks, you can ensure each candle's aroma will fill your entire home with holiday goodness. Set the tone for sweaters, comfort food, and a new freakin' year, with the 85 Bath & Body Works holiday candles, ahead. And don't forget to check out Bath & Body Works' entire holiday collection while you're at it!

Meet the Best Toys and Gift Ideas For 4-Year-Old Kids in 2020

We have browsed the internet for the best toys and gift ideas for those 4-year old boys and girls in your life. It is clear the 4-year-olds you know are really morphing into a full-fledged kids now, and they have their favorite toys and characters and opinions about everything. That said, these fun finds - including educational toys, scooters, and fun board games - are sure to be hits when your preschooler opens them! And what's better than seeing that smile? Just keep reading to shop our best toys and gift ideas for 4-year-olds!

Find the best gifts for the babies, toddlers, and kids in your life with our gift guides, including for 3-year-olds, 5-year-olds, and 6-year-olds.

30 Sephora Gift Ideas From Stocking Stuffers to Secret Santa Ideas, All For Under $25

So, you're making a list and checking it twice, but all of a sudden, you realize just how many people you need to be getting something for . . . and you freeze. Well, consider us your savior this season with these 30 beauty gift ideas from Sephora for anyone on your list. Bonus: the presents also come without a big spend - nothing's over $25.

Maybe you're doing a little exchange with your closest friends by mail or still making a socially distant Secret Santa scenario happen. These $25-or-less Sephora gifting ideas also make great stocking stuffers for beauty-lovers of any age, from a hard-to-impress teen to a new partner's mom. Of course, there's a little something for your beauty-obsessed BFF who could already teach a masterclass in makeup or for any pal who could use a little pick-me-up in 2020.

Plus, if someone you love is anxiously awaiting the time when they can finally safely travel again, there are frequent-flier-friendly ideas to try now that can take them straight into the new year, too. And with Sephora's Holiday Savings Event happening through Nov. 9, there's an even better deal to be had when you start shopping early. We can all cheers to that.

Let It Glow! 85 Bath & Body Works Holiday Candles That'll Make Your Home Merry and Bright

Drumroll, please! Bath & Body Works holiday candles have arrived, and they have more than 20 sweet-smelling scents to choose from. Whether you're looking to fill your bedroom with the cozy smell of sweater weather or your kitchen with the familiar scent of hot cocoa and cream - you name it, Bath & Body Works has a candle for it. With options that range from single to three wicks, you can ensure each candle's aroma will fill your entire home with holiday goodness. Set the tone for sweaters, comfort food, and a new freakin' year, with the 85 Bath & Body Works holiday candles, ahead. And don't forget to check out Bath & Body Works' entire holiday collection while you're at it!

14 Cashmere Loungewear Sets That Make Great Gifts - For You or Someone Else

To us, luxury equals cashmere. The fabric is soft, warm, and exactly what we want to wrap ourselves in come winter. Right now, the name of the game is matching sets, and when you combine sweater sets with matching sweatsuits, you get the cashmere loungewear set. It is as deliciously decadent as you can imagine, and we've rounded up 14 of our favorite looks.

Whether you want a classic hoodie or a hot pink backless polo, these are the styles you'll fall in love with. These pieces make for amazing gifts (seriously, they'll be obsessed) but if you decide to treat yourself, we say go for it. Keep on reading to shop our selects.

30 Sephora Gift Ideas From Stocking Stuffers to Secret Santa Ideas, All For Under $25

So, you're making a list and checking it twice, but all of a sudden, you realize just how many people you need to be getting something for . . . and you freeze. Well, consider us your savior this season with these 30 beauty gift ideas from Sephora for anyone on your list. Bonus: the presents also come without a big spend - nothing's over $25.

Maybe you're doing a little exchange with your closest friends by mail or still making a socially distant Secret Santa scenario happen. These $25-or-less Sephora gifting ideas also make great stocking stuffers for beauty-lovers of any age, from a hard-to-impress teen to a new partner's mom. Of course, there's a little something for your beauty-obsessed BFF who could already teach a masterclass in makeup or for any pal who could use a little pick-me-up in 2020.

Plus, if someone you love is anxiously awaiting the time when they can finally safely travel again, there are frequent-flier-friendly ideas to try now that can take them straight into the new year, too. And with Sephora's Holiday Savings Event happening through Nov. 9, there's an even better deal to be had when you start shopping early. We can all cheers to that.

These 23 Thoughtful Gifts Will Make Friends and Family Feel Loved

Staying at home during the holiday season can get lonely. The Zoom calls and binge-watching (virtual) parties are nice, but we understand it's not enough. On the bright side, it's an opportunity to indulge in new hobbies and interests. You can truly make time for those you love and send them something special. Whether you want to get something for yourself or a loved one, we've got you covered with the best isolation gifts! You can give the gift of (virtual) company with hobbies and activities you and your loved ones can do together. Pamper your loved ones or yourself with spa gift sets and self-care finds. You can send something personable that makes your loved ones know you're thinking about them. We hope these finds will make you and your loved ones enjoy the holiday season.

14 Cashmere Loungewear Sets That Make Great Gifts - For You or Someone Else

To us, luxury equals cashmere. The fabric is soft, warm, and exactly what we want to wrap ourselves in come winter. Right now, the name of the game is matching sets, and when you combine sweater sets with matching sweatsuits, you get the cashmere loungewear set. It is as deliciously decadent as you can imagine, and we've rounded up 14 of our favorite looks.

Whether you want a classic hoodie or a hot pink backless polo, these are the styles you'll fall in love with. These pieces make for amazing gifts (seriously, they'll be obsessed) but if you decide to treat yourself, we say go for it. Keep on reading to shop our selects.

These 23 Thoughtful Gifts Will Make Friends and Family Feel Loved

Staying at home during the holiday season can get lonely. The Zoom calls and binge-watching (virtual) parties are nice, but we understand it's not enough. On the bright side, it's an opportunity to indulge in new hobbies and interests. You can truly make time for those you love and send them something special. Whether you want to get something for yourself or a loved one, we've got you covered with the best isolation gifts! You can give the gift of (virtual) company with hobbies and activities you and your loved ones can do together. Pamper your loved ones or yourself with spa gift sets and self-care finds. You can send something personable that makes your loved ones know you're thinking about them. We hope these finds will make you and your loved ones enjoy the holiday season.

Cabincore Is the Trend I Didn't Know I Needed

As we put away our whimsical summer dresses and brace ourselves for sweater weather, a new aesthetic has emerged. Enter cabincore. Referencing all things cozy, it's a lifestyle that includes camping in fleece jackets, nesting in warm-toned and layered ensembles, decorating your house with rustic farmhouse pieces, and the list goes on.

I see it as a natural evolution of cottagecore, the movement that has seen many people baking bread, arranging fresh flowers, and having picnics in the dreamiest floral outfits. I'm here for the cabincore fashion, so if you're looking to experiment with the trend, I've curated an easy style guide ahead.

These 23 Thoughtful Gifts Will Make Friends and Family Feel Loved

Staying at home during the holiday season can get lonely. The Zoom calls and binge-watching (virtual) parties are nice, but we understand it's not enough. On the bright side, it's an opportunity to indulge in new hobbies and interests. You can truly make time for those you love and send them something special. Whether you want to get something for yourself or a loved one, we've got you covered with the best isolation gifts! You can give the gift of (virtual) company with hobbies and activities you and your loved ones can do together. Pamper your loved ones or yourself with spa gift sets and self-care finds. You can send something personable that makes your loved ones know you're thinking about them. We hope these finds will make you and your loved ones enjoy the holiday season.

jeudi 5 novembre 2020

If You're Thinking About Adopting a Cat, Here's Exactly How Much It'll Cost

If you're looking into adopting a cat, you're in for all the snuggles, special moments, and catching your new feline pal getting into nooks you never thought possible. Life will be so much sweeter – but it also comes with a multitude of costs and expenses. For some, cats might seem much more low maintenance than other pets, which can be true. That being said, the yearly costs of having a cat should be examined before adopting, that way, you avoid unpleasant surprises when presented with initial adoption fees, and the eventual veterinary expenses, food costs, and more. Having everything laid out beforehand will make the entire process of getting a cat much smoother, and you'll steer clear of upsets throughout the years as you focus on enjoying your furry friend.

How much should you expect to spend on cat adoption fees?

If you choose to adopt a cat from a local shelter, your initial expense will be the adoption fees, which can range from $34 to $276, according to the Animal Humane Society. Adoption fees typically include several features which might even save you first-year veterinary expenses, like a general physical and behavior exam, vaccines, deworming, flea/tick treatment, and spaying or neutering. Keep in mind that these adoption costs will vary depending on the age and breed of your cat, especially if it's in high demand, as well as your location and even the time of year. Areas with a higher cost of living might have higher adoption fees, and many shelters waive adoption fees at certain times of the year. Many details go into this fee, so it's important to do your research before cementing the adoption process.

If you prefer to purchase your cat from a breeder, it's important to note the total initial cost will be much more expensive. A breed like a Bengal or Siberian can costs can be anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000. To add to the expenses, breeders do not include all the ready-to-go medical care that shelters do, meaning you will have to add spaying or neutering, which can cost $300 or more, and extra veterinary visits. If you're dead-set on a purebred, but would love to avoid the high costs, try adopting from a breed-specific rescue group.

What are the yearly costs of owning a cat?

Once you have your kitty, strategizing the yearly expenses is imperative to saving yourself possible headaches. According to the ASPCA, you should expect to spend $1,174 in your first year as a cat owner, which includes $145 on spaying/neutering (if not done by a shelter), $130 on the initial veterinary visit, $10 on a collar and leash, $25 on a litter box, $15 on a scratching post, and $40 on a carrier bag. After that, you'll spend around $809 a year on your furry friend. Your recurring annual costs will include roughly $224 in food, $160 in yearly veterinary fees, $165 on litter, $25 on toys and treats, and $175 on health insurance. You should also add to that a cat bed, which can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 (and will probably be replaced down the line), food and water bowls for $5 to $30, and flea/tick prevention which costs $20 to $200 a year.

Other eventual costs to consider when adopting a cat are emergency veterinary care, which can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000, plus pet sitting or boarding fees if you go on a longer trip, which can cost $15 to $50 per day. Some specialty cats require some grooming as well, which averages at around $300 a year.

A crucial element to remember when budgeting for your future cat is that costs vary widely depending on the breed you choose. While mixed breed cats are less prone to health problems, purebred cats like the Persian breed can cost you from $500 to $5,500 in miscellaneous medical fees and extra care because of their genetic health problems.

No matter your chosen route, planning ahead economically for your cat's arrival is crucial to making the adoption experience as easy and seamless as possible. Tailor your strategy to your specific needs, and focus on all the cuddly times ahead.

Colts Player Nyheim Hines Celebrates His Touchdown With a Simone-Biles-Approved Backflip

The Indianapolis Colts won their football game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Nov. 1, 41 to 21, and two of the touchdowns were scored by running back Nyheim Hines. The player, though, didn't celebrate with an ordinary touchdown dance; instead, he effortlessly performed a flip in the end zone - a roundoff into a backflip with a full twist to be exact (otherwise known as a "tuck full"). Watch the first of these celebrations in the video above. Simone Biles herself even commented "so impressive" on Twitter.

Hines was drafted by the Colts in 2018 and played Division I football at North Carolina State University. In a postgame interview, he said that he learned this flip in middle school. "I learned how to do it on a trampoline, and then I just went on the ground and threw it, so I've been able to do it for 10-plus years now," Hines noted, adding that he wanted to celebrate with this signature move since the start of his NFL career.

The fact that Hines impressed a world-class gymnast like Biles is a great accomplishment. By the looks of it, his skills span beyond the football field and into the air. He didn't quite stick the landing, but winning Biles's approval deserves gold.

20 HIIT Workouts That Prove You Don't Need to Do Burpees to Get Seriously Sweaty

If you find yourself dreading HIIT workouts, chances are it's actually the burpees you're trying to avoid. At least that's been the case for me, ever since I tried to do HIIT in my second-story apartment. To avoid shaking the ceiling of my downstairs neighbor's place, I had no choice but to skip the sets of burpees. But without all the jumping up and down, I felt like I wasn't getting nearly as good of a workout. Thus began my search for burpee-less HIIT workouts - and now, I'm obsessed.

The truth is, if you want a full-body workout that's highly effective for fat loss and muscle building, you can get it without doing a single burpee (and you'll feel just as accomplished afterwards). Whether you live in an upper-floor apartment like me, you're a HIIT beginner, you have lower back pain or knee issues, or you simply hate burpees, you're bound to find your next HIIT workout in this list.

Celebrate Diwali By Supporting These 30 South Asian Owned Small Businesses

We're Thankful For All the Thanksgiving Food at Trader Joe's - Check Out Our Favorite Picks!

Trader Joe's just made the prep for Thanksgiving dinner a breeze with its easy-to-make-food selection, tasty and hearty bites, and drool-worthy desserts. From prepackaged appetizers that'll have people coming back for more to main-course meals that even the least experienced chef can make, these festive picks will fill your table with mouthwatering dishes (and your heart with thanksgiving that you didn't have to spend hours in the kitchen!). Whether you want an rich loaf of cornbread to pair with the turkey or you're looking for a berry-packed pie to flaunt on the dessert table, these Trader Joe's finds will fill your kitchen with all the Thanksgiving food you could dream of. This year, spend less time in the kitchen and more time around the table enjoying these delicious Thanksgiving-inspired foods from Trader Joe's. Check out our favorite picks, ahead!

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

The 19 Most Comfortable and Stylish Sectional Sofas You Can Buy Online

Shopping for the perfect sofa was a total roller coaster for me. I really wanted a simple small sofa for my apartment, but I ran into one major problem: nothing would fit through my front door. I live in an old city building that has a few sharp corners that are hard to get large furniture pieces by. I had two failed couch attempts before realizing the only thing I could buy was a sectional. Most of them come in two pieces, so I could put it together inside. Since it was my best option, I caved and bought one and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

These comfy pieces are perfect for lounging on all day and they look so stylish, I can't believe I was ever resistant to it. As I spent months shopping for the perfect match, I came across tons of options that caught my eye and looked supercozy. So, if you're also in the market for a new comfy sofa, trust me, make it a sectional and you won't regret it. Ahead, you can shop my list of 19 comfortable and popular choices that belong in your living room.

15 Thanksgiving Nail Art Ideas More Tantalizing Than Pumpkin Pie

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays: we get to surround ourselves with friends and family, eat a delicious meal, and finally have an excuse to rewatch all those festive Friends episodes, all while reflecting on what we've been thankful for this year. Well, it may sound corny, but we're grateful for nail art. The time we set aside to doodle on our digits is almost like meditation - our mind feels clearer, and we're more relaxed after a polish period.

In anticipation of all the holiday hubbub, take a moment for yourself, and get painting. We've found 15 adorable manicure ideas for you to try before Turkey Day. Practice now - it'll make a great conversation starter around the cornucopia.

27 Cute Workout Clothes to Grab When You're Bored of Basic Black Pieces

We love our black leggings and sports bras, and it's possible to build an entire workout wardrobe around them, but at the moment, we're looking to shake things up. The issue is, we're not really in the mood for neons or wild patterns. That's where the new neutrals come in. These colors are muted and easy to wear, but represent a departure from basic black pieces, which we love.

From classic navy to rich burgundy and cool olive green, these are the workout clothes you're going to want to wear all year long. You can get sweaty or stay cozy on the couch; we won't judge. Keep on reading to shop our selects.

If You're Thinking About Adopting a Cat, Here's Exactly How Much It'll Cost

If you're looking into adopting a cat, you're in for all the snuggles, special moments, and catching your new feline pal getting into nooks you never thought possible. Life will be so much sweeter – but it also comes with a multitude of costs and expenses. For some, cats might seem much more low maintenance than other pets, which can be true. That being said, the yearly costs of having a cat should be examined before adopting, that way, you avoid unpleasant surprises when presented with initial adoption fees, and the eventual veterinary expenses, food costs, and more. Having everything laid out beforehand will make the entire process of getting a cat much smoother, and you'll steer clear of upsets throughout the years as you focus on enjoying your furry friend.

How much should you expect to spend on cat adoption fees?

If you choose to adopt a cat from a local shelter, your initial expense will be the adoption fees, which can range from $34 to $276, according to the Animal Humane Society. Adoption fees typically include several features which might even save you first-year veterinary expenses, like a general physical and behavior exam, vaccines, deworming, flea/tick treatment, and spaying or neutering. Keep in mind that these adoption costs will vary depending on the age and breed of your cat, especially if it's in high demand, as well as your location and even the time of year. Areas with a higher cost of living might have higher adoption fees, and many shelters waive adoption fees at certain times of the year. Many details go into this fee, so it's important to do your research before cementing the adoption process.

If you prefer to purchase your cat from a breeder, it's important to note the total initial cost will be much more expensive. A breed like a Bengal or Siberian can costs can be anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000. To add to the expenses, breeders do not include all the ready-to-go medical care that shelters do, meaning you will have to add spaying or neutering, which can cost $300 or more, and extra veterinary visits. If you're dead-set on a purebred, but would love to avoid the high costs, try adopting from a breed-specific rescue group.

What are the yearly costs of owning a cat?

Once you have your kitty, strategizing the yearly expenses is imperative to saving yourself possible headaches. According to the ASPCA, you should expect to spend $1,174 in your first year as a cat owner, which includes $145 on spaying/neutering (if not done by a shelter), $130 on the initial veterinary visit, $10 on a collar and leash, $25 on a litter box, $15 on a scratching post, and $40 on a carrier bag. After that, you'll spend around $809 a year on your furry friend. Your recurring annual costs will include roughly $224 in food, $160 in yearly veterinary fees, $165 on litter, $25 on toys and treats, and $175 on health insurance. You should also add to that a cat bed, which can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 (and will probably be replaced down the line), food and water bowls for $5 to $30, and flea/tick prevention which costs $20 to $200 a year.

Other eventual costs to consider when adopting a cat are emergency veterinary care, which can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000, plus pet sitting or boarding fees if you go on a longer trip, which can cost $15 to $50 per day. Some specialty cats require some grooming as well, which averages at around $300 a year.

A crucial element to remember when budgeting for your future cat is that costs vary widely depending on the breed you choose. While mixed breed cats are less prone to health problems, purebred cats like the Persian breed can cost you from $500 to $5,500 in miscellaneous medical fees and extra care because of their genetic health problems.

No matter your chosen route, planning ahead economically for your cat's arrival is crucial to making the adoption experience as easy and seamless as possible. Tailor your strategy to your specific needs, and focus on all the cuddly times ahead.

We're Thankful For All the Thanksgiving Food at Trader Joe's - Check Out Our Favorite Picks!

Trader Joe's just made the prep for Thanksgiving dinner a breeze with its easy-to-make-food selection, tasty and hearty bites, and drool-worthy desserts. From prepackaged appetizers that'll have people coming back for more to main-course meals that even the least experienced chef can make, these festive picks will fill your table with mouthwatering dishes (and your heart with thanksgiving that you didn't have to spend hours in the kitchen!). Whether you want an rich loaf of cornbread to pair with the turkey or you're looking for a berry-packed pie to flaunt on the dessert table, these Trader Joe's finds will fill your kitchen with all the Thanksgiving food you could dream of. This year, spend less time in the kitchen and more time around the table enjoying these delicious Thanksgiving-inspired foods from Trader Joe's. Check out our favorite picks, ahead!

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

The 19 Most Comfortable and Stylish Sectional Sofas You Can Buy Online

Shopping for the perfect sofa was a total roller coaster for me. I really wanted a simple small sofa for my apartment, but I ran into one major problem: nothing would fit through my front door. I live in an old city building that has a few sharp corners that are hard to get large furniture pieces by. I had two failed couch attempts before realizing the only thing I could buy was a sectional. Most of them come in two pieces, so I could put it together inside. Since it was my best option, I caved and bought one and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

These comfy pieces are perfect for lounging on all day and they look so stylish, I can't believe I was ever resistant to it. As I spent months shopping for the perfect match, I came across tons of options that caught my eye and looked supercozy. So, if you're also in the market for a new comfy sofa, trust me, make it a sectional and you won't regret it. Ahead, you can shop my list of 19 comfortable and popular choices that belong in your living room.

If You're Thinking About Adopting a Cat, Here's Exactly How Much It'll Cost

If you're looking into adopting a cat, you're in for all the snuggles, special moments, and catching your new feline pal getting into nooks you never thought possible. Life will be so much sweeter – but it also comes with a multitude of costs and expenses. For some, cats might seem much more low maintenance than other pets, which can be true. That being said, the yearly costs of having a cat should be examined before adopting, that way, you avoid unpleasant surprises when presented with initial adoption fees, and the eventual veterinary expenses, food costs, and more. Having everything laid out beforehand will make the entire process of getting a cat much smoother, and you'll steer clear of upsets throughout the years as you focus on enjoying your furry friend.

How much should you expect to spend on cat adoption fees?

If you choose to adopt a cat from a local shelter, your initial expense will be the adoption fees, which can range from $34 to $276, according to the Animal Humane Society. Adoption fees typically include several features which might even save you first-year veterinary expenses, like a general physical and behavior exam, vaccines, deworming, flea/tick treatment, and spaying or neutering. Keep in mind that these adoption costs will vary depending on the age and breed of your cat, especially if it's in high demand, as well as your location and even the time of year. Areas with a higher cost of living might have higher adoption fees, and many shelters waive adoption fees at certain times of the year. Many details go into this fee, so it's important to do your research before cementing the adoption process.

If you prefer to purchase your cat from a breeder, it's important to note the total initial cost will be much more expensive. A breed like a Bengal or Siberian can costs can be anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000. To add to the expenses, breeders do not include all the ready-to-go medical care that shelters do, meaning you will have to add spaying or neutering, which can cost $300 or more, and extra veterinary visits. If you're dead-set on a purebred, but would love to avoid the high costs, try adopting from a breed-specific rescue group.

What are the yearly costs of owning a cat?

Once you have your kitty, strategizing the yearly expenses is imperative to saving yourself possible headaches. According to the ASPCA, you should expect to spend $1,174 in your first year as a cat owner, which includes $145 on spaying/neutering (if not done by a shelter), $130 on the initial veterinary visit, $10 on a collar and leash, $25 on a litter box, $15 on a scratching post, and $40 on a carrier bag. After that, you'll spend around $809 a year on your furry friend. Your recurring annual costs will include roughly $224 in food, $160 in yearly veterinary fees, $165 on litter, $25 on toys and treats, and $175 on health insurance. You should also add to that a cat bed, which can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 (and will probably be replaced down the line), food and water bowls for $5 to $30, and flea/tick prevention which costs $20 to $200 a year.

Other eventual costs to consider when adopting a cat are emergency veterinary care, which can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000, plus pet sitting or boarding fees if you go on a longer trip, which can cost $15 to $50 per day. Some specialty cats require some grooming as well, which averages at around $300 a year.

A crucial element to remember when budgeting for your future cat is that costs vary widely depending on the breed you choose. While mixed breed cats are less prone to health problems, purebred cats like the Persian breed can cost you from $500 to $5,500 in miscellaneous medical fees and extra care because of their genetic health problems.

No matter your chosen route, planning ahead economically for your cat's arrival is crucial to making the adoption experience as easy and seamless as possible. Tailor your strategy to your specific needs, and focus on all the cuddly times ahead.

Go Ahead and Spoil Your Loved Ones With These 25 It Items From Coach

These Delectable Fall Desserts Will Keep Your Sweet Tooth Satisfied All Season Long

Fall is the perfect time to get in the kitchen, flex your baking skills, and make decadent desserts that'll warm you up from the inside out. Fresh pumpkin, rich butternut squash, and seasonal spices can all be used to make the best desserts of the season. Whether you want to experiment with new ingredients or you want to perfect your tried-and-true autumnal classics, these fall-inspired recipes cover all the baking bases. From sugar-coated cookies and chocolately cakes to fresh pumpkin pies and crisp cold ice cream, these desserts are too sweet to pass up. Take a look at our favorite fall desserts ahead, and get ready to make this season's treats the most delectable of them all.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

The 50+ Best Gifts That'll Blow Them Away This Year - All From Walmart

If you're looking to get ahead on your holiday shopping this year, you've come to the right place. Walmart just dropped its hottest gifts, and the selection is so good, it's hard to leave empty-handed. The site features thousands of amazing presents from popular brands you know and love - the hard part is narrowing in on the perfect picks for your loved ones. To save you time, we did the hard part for you. We scoured the retailer's newest gift guides and uncovered over 50 hot gifts that will no doubt put a smile on their face.

Ahead, you can shop everything from relaxing bath caddies for the person who just needs a little R&R to seriously cool gadgets that will upgrade their home. The selection is so good and affordable, it will be easy to cross everyone off your list at once. Keep reading to shop.

Research Finds That Weight Lifting Has Surprisingly Calming Effects

Go Ahead and Spoil Your Loved Ones With These 25 It Items From Coach

These Delectable Fall Desserts Will Keep Your Sweet Tooth Satisfied All Season Long

Fall is the perfect time to get in the kitchen, flex your baking skills, and make decadent desserts that'll warm you up from the inside out. Fresh pumpkin, rich butternut squash, and seasonal spices can all be used to make the best desserts of the season. Whether you want to experiment with new ingredients or you want to perfect your tried-and-true autumnal classics, these fall-inspired recipes cover all the baking bases. From sugar-coated cookies and chocolately cakes to fresh pumpkin pies and crisp cold ice cream, these desserts are too sweet to pass up. Take a look at our favorite fall desserts ahead, and get ready to make this season's treats the most delectable of them all.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano

The 50+ Best Gifts That'll Blow Them Away This Year - All From Walmart

If you're looking to get ahead on your holiday shopping this year, you've come to the right place. Walmart just dropped its hottest gifts, and the selection is so good, it's hard to leave empty-handed. The site features thousands of amazing presents from popular brands you know and love - the hard part is narrowing in on the perfect picks for your loved ones. To save you time, we did the hard part for you. We scoured the retailer's newest gift guides and uncovered over 50 hot gifts that will no doubt put a smile on their face.

Ahead, you can shop everything from relaxing bath caddies for the person who just needs a little R&R to seriously cool gadgets that will upgrade their home. The selection is so good and affordable, it will be easy to cross everyone off your list at once. Keep reading to shop.

Feel Overwhelmed by Anxiety? Try the Therapist-Approved Butterfly Tapping Technique

@mashmushe

Tip from. Therapist! Let me know if you will or have tried it #trauma #anxiety #learnontiktok #tiktokpartner

♬ LULLABY WALTZ - Marcel Coulomb

Stress and anxiety both have a way of piling up - and piling up fast. Therapist Micheline Maalouf, LMHC, NCC, uses her platform on TikTok (that has amassed over 700K followers) to give tangible tips for combating adverse effects to our mental health. One key way to help with anxiety and stress is a technique called "butterfly tapping," or "butterfly hug," that Maalouf demonstrates in the video above.

Basically, you place your hands, palms down, on your chest, interlocking your thumbs in a shape that resembles a butterfly. Then, you slowly tap one hand after the other near your shoulders (Maalouf followed up on Twitter to say that she's tapping too quickly in the video because her hands "kept up" with her words). Keep your pace slow.

"It's a bilateral stimulation technique [aka, alternating stimulation on both sides of the body] that helps us ground ourselves when we're feeling anxious or panicky, or just need to calm down our bodies a little bit," Maalouf explains in the video. She adds that it helps by activating our parasympathetic nervous system, which enacts digestion and slows down your heart rate, among other functions.

Maalouf further clarified in the TikTok comments that the technique itself comes from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) typically used for treating trauma and that though she is not formally trained in EMDR, she's had it done herself and butterfly tapping is soothing for her. She also said in the comments that if this technique does not work for you, you can try simply giving yourself a hug.

While we know that techniques like this aren't a cure-all, the hope is that you can use it as a tool to cope with anxiety you may be experiencing today, next week, even months and years from now. Take a moment to test it out.