Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

mercredi 11 novembre 2020

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Set Their "Feud" Aside For the Holidays - Well, Sort Of

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman's faux feud has raged on for over a decade, but the actors are officially setting their differences aside for the holidays. On Nov. 10, Ryan and Hugh teamed up for a new Sam's Club holiday commercial to raise money for charity together (and I say "together" loosely). "You know, they say the holidays are a time for forgiveness," Ryan says at the start of the commercial as he and Hugh sit awkwardly far apart in front of a cozy fireplace. Are they social distancing or do they just refuse to sit any closer to their sworn "enemy"?

Throughout the holiday season, registered Sam's Club members can vote whether they want to side with Hugh and support the Laughing Man Coffee Foundation, which helps support coffee farming communities worldwide, or side with Ryan and support the Sick Kids Foundation, a Canadian organization fighting for the health and well-being of children. Anyone who wants to prove "Ryan is the canned cranberry sauce of human beings," can vote for Hugh on the Sam's Club website or purchase a box of Laughing Man Coffee. And those who agree with Ryan's sentiment that, "like mistletoe, Hugh just makes things awkward," can vote for him on the site or purchase a bottle of Aviation Gin.

Purchases and online votes will be counted equally through Dec. 20. Once all the votes are in, five lucky winners will be chosen to have a virtual hangout with Ryan and Hugh in January 2021 and invite one guest. But all participants do have to be at least 21 by the time of the hangout, so make sure you read up on all of the official rules, and check out the full commercial above.

I'm a Dietitian, and I'm Drinking This Juice Every Morning to Support My Immune System

Cold and flu season has arrived, which for many of us means loading up on vitamins and supplements to help keep us healthy. After all, who wants to be stuck in bed fighting a cold or dealing with the flu? Not me!

As a registered dietitian, I know the value of supplying my body with immune-supporting nutrients during these colder months. I don't give into all the "immune-boosting" solutions on the market, as many have zero evidence to back up their claims. However, I know the data suggests that vitamin C helps promote the production of immune cells, and vitamin D helps protect against respiratory tract infections, including the flu. So, I keep my immune-supporting regimen simple - along with eating a balanced diet, sleeping well, and exercising, I give myself a daily supplemental boost of the immune-supporting trifecta that is vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D.

But while I may do a great job at buying my pills, I don't do as good of a job actually taking them. I am super-compliant with my supplement regimen for about a week, and then things tend to go downhill rather quickly. I get busy and forget to pop my pills, and ultimately the bottles start collecting dust and make their way into the supplement graveyard.

One day, while leisurely strolling through my grocery store aisles (which I frequently do - it's my "me" time), I came across Uncle Matt's Organic Ultimate Immune (available in stores). Skeptical about whether a juice could meet my needs, I perused the label and was pleasantly surprised. This natural and organic OJ is loaded with nutrients that actually have data supporting their effects on immune health, including (per serving) 300 percent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C, 50 percent of the RDA of vitamin D, and 25 percent of the RDA of zinc. My beloved trifecta! Added organic elderberry juice gives this beverage antibacterial and antiviral benefits, while also giving it a pretty berry-colored hue that helps make each glass totally Instagram-worthy (priorities, right?).

Plus, because the base is traditional organic orange juice, it's naturally chock-full of important carotenoids - including beta carotene, alpha carotene, and beta cryptoxanthin, which can help form vitamin A in the body, an important nutrient for immune function. Another bonus? Drinking 100 percent orange juice daily also provides my body with hesperidin, an antioxidant that has been shown to offer blood pressure benefits, which means drinking this juice allows me to take care of my heart health as well as my immune health. Needless to say, I'm sold.

Being a tired working mom, having a solution that is as simple as pouring a glass of juice and sipping it is a welcomed addition to my otherwise crazy life. This juice tastes good, contains a boost of nutrients that helps my body stay in fighting shape during cold and flu season, and is made from real organic orange juice with no added sugars. It's something my entire family now enjoys before running out the door for school or work in the morning.

Along with making sure to wash my hands frequently, getting quality sleep, and eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, enjoying a glass of Uncle Matt's Organic Ultimate Immune every morning is a no-brainer to help keep my immune system in-check. Because the last thing I want this winter is to be stuck in bed for a week with the "ick." Nobody has time for that.

I'm a Dietitian, and I'm Drinking This Juice Every Morning to Support My Immune System

Cold and flu season has arrived, which for many of us means loading up on vitamins and supplements to help keep us healthy. After all, who wants to be stuck in bed fighting a cold or dealing with the flu? Not me!

As a registered dietitian, I know the value of supplying my body with immune-supporting nutrients during these colder months. I don't give into all the "immune-boosting" solutions on the market, as many have zero evidence to back up their claims. However, I know the data suggests that vitamin C helps promote the production of immune cells, and vitamin D helps protect against respiratory tract infections, including the flu. So, I keep my immune-supporting regimen simple - along with eating a balanced diet, sleeping well, and exercising, I give myself a daily supplemental boost of the immune-supporting trifecta that is vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D.

But while I may do a great job at buying my pills, I don't do as good of a job actually taking them. I am super-compliant with my supplement regimen for about a week, and then things tend to go downhill rather quickly. I get busy and forget to pop my pills, and ultimately the bottles start collecting dust and make their way into the supplement graveyard.

One day, while leisurely strolling through my grocery store aisles (which I frequently do - it's my "me" time), I came across Uncle Matt's Organic Ultimate Immune (available in stores). Skeptical about whether a juice could meet my needs, I perused the label and was pleasantly surprised. This natural and organic OJ is loaded with nutrients that actually have data supporting their effects on immune health, including (per serving) 300 percent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C, 50 percent of the RDA of vitamin D, and 25 percent of the RDA of zinc. My beloved trifecta! Added organic elderberry juice gives this beverage antibacterial and antiviral benefits, while also giving it a pretty berry-colored hue that helps make each glass totally Instagram-worthy (priorities, right?).

Plus, because the base is traditional organic orange juice, it's naturally chock-full of important carotenoids - including beta carotene, alpha carotene, and beta cryptoxanthin, which can help form vitamin A in the body, an important nutrient for immune function. Another bonus? Drinking 100 percent orange juice daily also provides my body with hesperidin, an antioxidant that has been shown to offer blood pressure benefits, which means drinking this juice allows me to take care of my heart health as well as my immune health. Needless to say, I'm sold.

Being a tired working mom, having a solution that is as simple as pouring a glass of juice and sipping it is a welcomed addition to my otherwise crazy life. This juice tastes good, contains a boost of nutrients that helps my body stay in fighting shape during cold and flu season, and is made from real organic orange juice with no added sugars. It's something my entire family now enjoys before running out the door for school or work in the morning.

Along with making sure to wash my hands frequently, getting quality sleep, and eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, enjoying a glass of Uncle Matt's Organic Ultimate Immune every morning is a no-brainer to help keep my immune system in-check. Because the last thing I want this winter is to be stuck in bed for a week with the "ick." Nobody has time for that.

31 Gag Gifts So Funny, Everyone Will Laugh Opening Them

When it comes time to get a gift for someone, there are really two main avenues to take: finding a thoughtful and meaningful gift that they'll treasure, or searching for something so absurdly funny that they will cry-laugh while opening it up. If you're leaning toward the latter, you're in luck. We searched the internet and found 30 presents so silly that we could barely keep it together. From unique activities and games to some that are actually practical, we found the best of the best. Be the prank war champion of your all your holiday gift exchanges, including white elephant. This holiday season, we could all use a good laugh!

- Additional reporting by Rebecca Brown

Related: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Stocking Stuffers You Didn't Know You Needed

Darren Criss Gifted Us Some Glee Secrets in Honor of the 10th Anniversary of His Debut

From the moment Blaine Anderson grabbed Kurt Hummel's hand and ran through the hall, I was sold on Darren Criss being a part of Glee. Nov. 9 marked the official 10th anniversary of Criss's first appearance as Blaine on the show, and he celebrated it the only way a Gleek could: live-streaming his reaction as he rewatched his debut episode.

Throughout the IGTV, Criss let fans in on behind-the-scenes tidbits, including how he felt about the show picking Warblers to make him look as tiny as possible before singing along to the iconic "Teenage Dream" performance. He also shared a couple of photos from filming on Instagram, captioning the post, "People always tell me how Glee changed their life, and I'm always happy to remind them how yeah, it changed mine too."

What's even wilder than the fact it's been 10 years since Blaine first appeared and five years since the show went off the air, is the fact that Criss pretty much looks the same now as he did then. Now, if only he would bust out the Warbler blazer, I'd be a very happy Gleek.

You'll See Hufflepuffs in a Whole New, Romantic Light Thanks to This Themed Wedding Shoot

Hufflepuff is easily one of the most underrated houses in the Harry Potter series. If you're a Harry Potter fan, then you know that to be a Hufflepuff one must be loyal, patient, and brave. Photographer and event planner Jessica Thomas decided to create a styled wedding shoot at Field Manor in Merritt Island, FL, to celebrate the magic of Hufflepuff in a tasteful and chic way.

"This styled shoot kept its theme while maintaining the elegance of a wedding day. The color scheme of rich yellows and blacks, in combination with the pops of gold, gave this shoot the perfect bohemian and free-spirited look reminiscing the loyal wizardry House," Jessica told POPSUGAR. "Each photo was conceptualized with the idea of romanticizing the kitschy trend of geek weddings and staying far away from the 'comic book' theme that most portray."

With the help of an amazing team of vendors, Jessica managed to transform the venue into a Hufflepuff dream. They decorated a long wooden table with black and golden plates and cutlery before topping it off with a wand. The shoot had four models, each with a dazzling look, but what really stood out was the fierce black gown worn by one of them. It perfectly contrasted her yellow and white bouquet. Jessica captured fantastic shots during golden hour, and the photos are stunning! Keep reading to take a look for yourself.

30 Gifts For $40 and Under That Will Check Everyone Off Your List

Gift-giving season is upon us, and we want to bring a little extra holiday cheer to the people we love in our lives. As our gifting list is growing, we want to find gifts that are affordable and still have a wow factor. When looking for some of our favorite gifts and comparing the prices to our current bank statement, we've found $40 to be the sweet spot for gifting. It gives a bit more wiggle room than a $25 budget but still feels a bit more affordable than a $50 budget. These 30 gifts will help you check everyone off your list.

From fun games to cool mugs and classic candles, these are the gifts that will be universally beloved. Whether you've got a white elephant gift exchange to look forward to or are excited about stocking stuffers, these picks will work for you and the people you love. Keep reading to shop!

Yes, You Can Be Asexual and Sex Positive - Here's How That Works

Leaving my hometown after I turned 18 was a great time for my self-discovery. I was very repressed in high school, so coming out to my family as queer and asexual immensely improved my mental health, and learning how to live my truth has motivated me to continue to work on bettering myself. However, that was also an important time for me to unlearn a lot of unhealthy and harmful misconceptions I had about dating and sexuality.

Before I first came to terms with the fact that I am asexual, I was mostly in denial because I am also a very sex-positive person. I used to believe that these two worlds were at odds with each other, but now I know this is a very misguided view that a lot of people have about asexuality, which isn't surprising, since asexual representation is still very sparse.

Believe it or not, asexuality is actually intrinsically linked to sex positivity. There is no strict criteria for being asexual, and everybody on the asexual spectrum has a unique experience that doesn't necessarily match other asexual people. Here are some important things to know about the connection between asexuality and sex positivity.

Coming to terms with my sexuality was about prioritizing my own mental and sexual health without feeling obligated to date or have sex with other people because of guilt or social pressure.

Asexual does not mean an aversion to sex. Asexuality is a spectrum, which means it looks different for everybody. Asexuality does not mean celibacy or lacking libido - it simply means that a person doesn't always experience sexual attraction. I am asexual and panromantic, which means I am attracted to all people regardless of gender, but I am also generally disinterested in sex for myself. However, this doesn't mean I have never felt sexual attraction before or that I am not allowed to. My asexuality does not invalidate my sex-positive nature or my passion to stay involved in the movement to make the world a better and more inclusive place for everybody to express their sexuality freely and without stigma.

Sex positivity is primarily recognized as a movement to recognize sex as a normal, healthy, and important part of life. While this is true, we must also acknowledge the fact that the sex-positive movement is supposed to challenge harmful social and cultural norms about sex and sexuality. It's about removing stigma from all forms of sexual attraction and expression, including asexuality. There are also many asexual people who are into BDSM and kink.

Coming to terms with my sexuality was about prioritizing my own mental and sexual health without feeling obligated to date or have sex with other people because of guilt or social pressure. That wouldn't be fair to myself, and it wouldn't be fair to my romantic partners, either. Sometimes I masturbate, but I don't consider sexual activity with other people to be a necessary component of my love life. That's not to say that everybody else who is asexual feels the same, though. There are also people on the asexual spectrum who are in relationships and sexually active but do not consider sex to be a requirement for a successful relationship. The reason asexuality is a necessary part of the sex-positive movement is because it challenges unhealthy norms about sex and sexuality.

However, there is also a lot of misrepresentation. Unfortunately, if you ask the average person who doesn't have much knowledge about asexuality - including other members of the LGBTQIA+ community - they will likely have the misguided perception that I once had, which is that asexual people have an aversion to sex. This misconception was highlighted in a 2018 BBC3 documentary about young asexual people, which had the controversial and misleading title I Don't Want Sex. Asexual people who were interviewed in the documentary later spoke out against it for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about asexuality. This highlights harmful and widespread misconceptions about asexuals being "late bloomers" who are "afraid of sex," which many people still believe.

If people want to be more educated about the topic, it's so important that they listen to asexual people and what we have to say. A few great places to learn more about sex positivity in asexual communities is by visiting the Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN) website. There are also many asexual public figures who are pushing the conversation forward, including Yasmin Benoit, a British lingerie model and asexual activist who is very outspoken about sex positivity. There's also author Angela Chen, who recently wrote a book called Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex, where she interviewed several asexual women about their experiences.

The fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is far from over, and there needs to be more adequate representation for asexual people, especially asexuals who are sex positive like me, because, yes, we do exist!

Dunkaroos Are Getting a Lot Bigger Thanks to New Sugar Cookie Dough and Sprinkle Frosting

A new type of Dunkaroos cookie is about to make its grocery store debut, and I'm oh so excited. The nostalgic '90s snack made a comeback earlier this year, and after an eager response from fans, the brand has decided to go bigger and bolder with its next launch. Enter: Dunkaroos Sugar Cookie Dough and Frosting.

Each ready-to-bake pack comes with enough sugar cookie dough to make six massive cookies or 24 mini ones - whether you're in the mood to share or enjoy a bunch on your own. The cookies also come with vanilla frosting mixed with rainbow sprinkles, for the full Dunkaroos experience. If this sounds like your type of snack, make sure to mark your calendar. You can snag these limited-edition treats on Nov. 23 at your local Hy-Vee, Kroger, Wakefern, Walmart, Wegmans, Albertsons, or Safeway.

Darren Criss Gifted Us Some Glee Secrets in Honor of the 10th Anniversary of His Debut

From the moment Blaine Anderson grabbed Kurt Hummel's hand and ran through the hall, I was sold on Darren Criss being a part of Glee. Nov. 9 marked the official 10th anniversary of Criss's first appearance as Blaine on the show, and he celebrated it the only way a Gleek could: live-streaming his reaction as he rewatched his debut episode.

Throughout the IGTV, Criss let fans in on behind-the-scenes tidbits, including how he felt about the show picking Warblers to make him look as tiny as possible before singing along to the iconic "Teenage Dream" performance. He also shared a couple of photos from filming on Instagram, captioning the post, "People always tell me how Glee changed their life, and I'm always happy to remind them how yeah, it changed mine too."

What's even wilder than the fact it's been 10 years since Blaine first appeared and five years since the show went off the air, is the fact that Criss pretty much looks the same now as he did then. Now, if only he would bust out the Warbler blazer, I'd be a very happy Gleek.

30 Gifts For $40 and Under That Will Check Everyone Off Your List

Gift-giving season is upon us, and we want to bring a little extra holiday cheer to the people we love in our lives. As our gifting list is growing, we want to find gifts that are affordable and still have a wow factor. When looking for some of our favorite gifts and comparing the prices to our current bank statement, we've found $40 to be the sweet spot for gifting. It gives a bit more wiggle room than a $25 budget but still feels a bit more affordable than a $50 budget. These 30 gifts will help you check everyone off your list.

From fun games to cool mugs and classic candles, these are the gifts that will be universally beloved. Whether you've got a white elephant gift exchange to look forward to or are excited about stocking stuffers, these picks will work for you and the people you love. Keep reading to shop!

Dunkaroos Are Getting a Lot Bigger Thanks to New Sugar Cookie Dough and Sprinkle Frosting

A new type of Dunkaroos cookie is about to make its grocery store debut, and I'm oh so excited. The nostalgic '90s snack made a comeback earlier this year, and after an eager response from fans, the brand has decided to go bigger and bolder with its next launch. Enter: Dunkaroos Sugar Cookie Dough and Frosting.

Each ready-to-bake pack comes with enough sugar cookie dough to make six massive cookies or 24 mini ones - whether you're in the mood to share or enjoy a bunch on your own. The cookies also come with vanilla frosting mixed with rainbow sprinkles, for the full Dunkaroos experience. If this sounds like your type of snack, make sure to mark your calendar. You can snag these limited-edition treats on Nov. 23 at your local Hy-Vee, Kroger, Wakefern, Walmart, Wegmans, Albertsons, or Safeway.

McDonald's Is Adding a New Plant-Based McPlant Burger to Its Menu

Good news for vegetarians and fast-food fans alike - this week, McDonald's announced that it will finally offer a plant-based meat substitute. In a blog post, McDonald's unveiled plans for a plant-based burger, aptly called the McPlant. The meatless patty will be served on a sesame-seed bun with classic toppings.

"There are other plant-based burgers out there, but the McPlant delivers our iconic taste in a sink-your-teeth-in (and wipe your mouth) kind of sandwich," the blog post reads.

Related: A Meat Eater Answers Your Burning Question - Does a Beyond Burger Taste Like Beef?

It did not disclose the specific plant ingredients used in the patty or any information about the suppliers McDonald's plans to use. The fast-food chain described the new burger as crafted "by McDonald's, for McDonald's."

However, a spokesperson for Beyond Meat told CNBC that the popular meat-substitute producer cocreated the plant-based patty that will be used in the McPlant roll-out with McDonald's. The two companies previously collaborated on Beyond's P.L.T. burger, which was tested at McDonald's locations in Canada last year.

Though there's no official release date, some locations are expected to begin testing the veggie burger next year. With the release, McDonald's will join the handful of other fast-food restaurants offering plant-based alternatives to typical drive-through fare, including Burger King, White Castle, and Carl's Jr.

Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.

13 Fun Facts About Salem the Cat, Marcel the Monkey, and Other TV and Movie Animals

Animals are one of the best parts of real life - so, it makes sense they are our favorite part about entertainment, too! A well-trained dog, adorable monkey, and purr-fectly cued cat makes a movie or tv show so much better.

After all, how would Sabrina get out of all those sticky situations in Sabrina the Teenage Witch without her cunning black cat, Salem? And, we just can't imagine Legally Blonde without the precious Bruiser hanging out in a pink purse. Yes, animal actors and actresses are simply amazing (as are their patient and talented trainers!), which is why we did a little digging to learn more about our favorite famous dogs, cats, monkeys, and horses. Scroll through the slides ahead to discover fun facts about 10 cool movie and tv animals.

You'll See Hufflepuffs in a Whole New, Romantic Light Thanks to This Themed Wedding Shoot

Hufflepuff is easily one of the most underrated houses in the Harry Potter series. If you're a Harry Potter fan, then you know that to be a Hufflepuff one must be loyal, patient, and brave. Photographer and event planner Jessica Thomas decided to create a styled wedding shoot at Field Manor in Merritt Island, FL, to celebrate the magic of Hufflepuff in a tasteful and chic way.

"This styled shoot kept its theme while maintaining the elegance of a wedding day. The color scheme of rich yellows and blacks, in combination with the pops of gold, gave this shoot the perfect bohemian and free-spirited look reminiscing the loyal wizardry House," Jessica told POPSUGAR. "Each photo was conceptualized with the idea of romanticizing the kitschy trend of geek weddings and staying far away from the 'comic book' theme that most portray."

With the help of an amazing team of vendors, Jessica managed to transform the venue into a Hufflepuff dream. They decorated a long wooden table with black and golden plates and cutlery before topping it off with a wand. The shoot had four models, each with a dazzling look, but what really stood out was the fierce black gown worn by one of them. It perfectly contrasted her yellow and white bouquet. Jessica captured fantastic shots during golden hour, and the photos are stunning! Keep reading to take a look for yourself.

Yes, You Can Be Asexual and Sex Positive - Here's How That Works

Leaving my hometown after I turned 18 was a great time for my self-discovery. I was very repressed in high school, so coming out to my family as queer and asexual immensely improved my mental health, and learning how to live my truth has motivated me to continue to work on bettering myself. However, that was also an important time for me to unlearn a lot of unhealthy and harmful misconceptions I had about dating and sexuality.

Before I first came to terms with the fact that I am asexual, I was mostly in denial because I am also a very sex-positive person. I used to believe that these two worlds were at odds with each other, but now I know this is a very misguided view that a lot of people have about asexuality, which isn't surprising, since asexual representation is still very sparse.

Believe it or not, asexuality is actually intrinsically linked to sex positivity. There is no strict criteria for being asexual, and everybody on the asexual spectrum has a unique experience that doesn't necessarily match other asexual people. Here are some important things to know about the connection between asexuality and sex positivity.

Coming to terms with my sexuality was about prioritizing my own mental and sexual health without feeling obligated to date or have sex with other people because of guilt or social pressure.

Asexual does not mean an aversion to sex. Asexuality is a spectrum, which means it looks different for everybody. Asexuality does not mean celibacy or lacking libido - it simply means that a person doesn't always experience sexual attraction. I am asexual and panromantic, which means I am attracted to all people regardless of gender, but I am also generally disinterested in sex for myself. However, this doesn't mean I have never felt sexual attraction before or that I am not allowed to. My asexuality does not invalidate my sex-positive nature or my passion to stay involved in the movement to make the world a better and more inclusive place for everybody to express their sexuality freely and without stigma.

Sex positivity is primarily recognized as a movement to recognize sex as a normal, healthy, and important part of life. While this is true, we must also acknowledge the fact that the sex-positive movement is supposed to challenge harmful social and cultural norms about sex and sexuality. It's about removing stigma from all forms of sexual attraction and expression, including asexuality. There are also many asexual people who are into BDSM and kink.

Coming to terms with my sexuality was about prioritizing my own mental and sexual health without feeling obligated to date or have sex with other people because of guilt or social pressure. That wouldn't be fair to myself, and it wouldn't be fair to my romantic partners, either. Sometimes I masturbate, but I don't consider sexual activity with other people to be a necessary component of my love life. That's not to say that everybody else who is asexual feels the same, though. There are also people on the asexual spectrum who are in relationships and sexually active but do not consider sex to be a requirement for a successful relationship. The reason asexuality is a necessary part of the sex-positive movement is because it challenges unhealthy norms about sex and sexuality.

However, there is also a lot of misrepresentation. Unfortunately, if you ask the average person who doesn't have much knowledge about asexuality - including other members of the LGBTQIA+ community - they will likely have the misguided perception that I once had, which is that asexual people have an aversion to sex. This misconception was highlighted in a 2018 BBC3 documentary about young asexual people, which had the controversial and misleading title I Don't Want Sex. Asexual people who were interviewed in the documentary later spoke out against it for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about asexuality. This highlights harmful and widespread misconceptions about asexuals being "late bloomers" who are "afraid of sex," which many people still believe.

If people want to be more educated about the topic, it's so important that they listen to asexual people and what we have to say. A few great places to learn more about sex positivity in asexual communities is by visiting the Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN) website. There are also many asexual public figures who are pushing the conversation forward, including Yasmin Benoit, a British lingerie model and asexual activist who is very outspoken about sex positivity. There's also author Angela Chen, who recently wrote a book called Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex, where she interviewed several asexual women about their experiences.

The fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is far from over, and there needs to be more adequate representation for asexual people, especially asexuals who are sex positive like me, because, yes, we do exist!

mardi 10 novembre 2020

Peloton Just Announced the Release Date For Its Smaller, Less Expensive Tread

The Peloton fitness program seems more popular than ever, as many are increasingly making the switch to at-home workouts. But the hefty price tag of its top-of-the-line machinery - the Bike, the Bike+, and the Tread+ - may understandably deter those who are trying to decide whether or not home-workout equipment is a worthwhile investment.

Now, however, an exciting new product launch might make the beloved exercise brand more accessible. This week, Peloton announced the details for the Peloton Tread, a smaller, lower-priced version of the Tread+.

The Tread will be available for purchase in March of 2021 for $2,495, compared to $4,295 for the original Tread+ treadmill.

This is admittedly still a steep price to pay for a treadmill, but at nearly half the cost of the Tread+, you are still getting the Peloton perks of an HD touchscreen and sound system to stream classes that will transport you from your living room to a high-end fitness studio. The cost includes delivery fees, though it does not include the $39/month subscription for unlimited classes.

Aside from the price, the main difference between the Tread and the Tread+ is that the former has a traditional treadmill belt, whereas the latter has a shock-absorbing slat belt. If you are already used to running on a regular treadmill, the Tread belt will not be any different.

The reduced size is also a big change, making it easier to find room for the machine in your home. The dimensions are 68 inches long by 33 inches wide by 62 inches high - smaller in length than most couches. The Tread+, meanwhile, measured 72.5 inches long by 32.5 inches wide by 72 inches tall.

Despite these differences, the Tread actually still has many of the same features that sets the Tread+ apart from other treadmills on the market.

In addition to the touch screen and speakers, there are user-friendly control knobs and jump buttons to easily add speed or incline. Both machines also forgo the clunky plastic shroud typically found at the front of treadmills, contributing to a sleeker look and greater range of motion.

Of course, there are lots of factors to consider when making such a significant purchase, but there's plenty of time until March to think about whether the Peloton Tread is right for you and your fitness goals. In the meantime, you can try out the new treadmill for yourself in Peloton stores across the US.

Click here for more health and wellness stories, tips, and news.

Noemí González Hopes Netflix's Selena Teaches People to "Be a Light When the Going Gets Rough"

You may know Noemí González as Soli Gomez from East Los High or Mia Rosales from Young and the Restless, but you'll soon get to see her on the drums as Suzette Quintanilla for Netflix's Selena: The Series. That's right - the 32-year-old Mexican actress will be starring as the sister of late Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla, and she's well aware of how big of a feat that is.

While speaking with POPSUGAR, González recalled the moment she found out she booked the part, saying she was at home when she got the call from her reps. "I was laying down and my body jumped up in command, present with my phone. And I was like, 'I'm sorry, what?' I just remember really enjoying having that personal moment of, 'Oh my God, did this just happen?' And processing it on my own," González said. "Then, I went to celebrate with a piece of chocolate cake at my favorite restaurant in LA. It's been magical."

Even though González has prior musical experience as a singer, she had to learn to play the drums for the role. "My musicianship was a little dormant because I was so focused on acting, and this role being so musically based, really reinvigorated a light in me, firing me to perform and to drum. It was incredibly challenging because the drums are such a demanding instrument, but I learned so much about myself," she explained. In fact, González's favorite scene to shoot just so happens to be the "Como La Flor" performance, which is featured in the show's teaser trailer. "That experience was incredibly magical. It is a six-minute live performance. I had to learn the 'Como La Flor' album version and 'Como La Flor' live version, and I had to look like a pro. I had to do the live version for the show two and a half months after starting to learn the drums."

As Selena's older sister and drummer, Suzette was a major force in her life, and for González, the pressure of playing a real-life person - and the executive producer of the series - turned out to be her biggest challenge. "I had to meditate early on that and make sure that I cut any unnecessary pressure on myself, because I didn't want anything to get in the way with me doing the best that I did and the best that I could," she added. "So, that was probably the biggest challenge when it came to playing this role was, everyone reminding me that I'm playing one of the bosses. And everyone reminding me that, she's going to see this. And making sure that none of that got in my head, and instead, it went in my heart, mind, and spirit to channel everything for this story."

"It has just been incredible to have so much of my own personal history, my own personal interests, be applied to my professional life in a way that I could give back to her the way that she's given to me."

Selena was one of the biggest (if not the biggest!) Tejano singers of all time, but her life was tragically cut short when she was fatally shot by the president of her fan club and manager of her boutiques, Yolanda Saldívar, in Corpus Christi, TX, on March 31, 1995. Being that González was and continues to be a fan of Selena, getting to play Suzette is more than just a role to her. "To say I'm a huge fan of Selena is an understatement. I am such a devoted fan. I was following her before she even was a mainstream, Mexican popular icon. I was following her with my mom when she was appearing on Sábado Gigante and Siempre en Domingo," she explained. "My mom already knew that this girl was about to be a huge star, so we watched those shows together. She handed me the Amor Prohibido album. I remember putting it in my CD stereo back in the day and dancing in the merits of songs that I really had no life experience to be singing about, but I felt those vibes and felt alive, vibrant, sassy, and fun - being a young little Mexican girl, listening to a Mexican girl producing such amazing music."

Given the major influence Selena had on González's life, her unexpected death hit her pretty hard. "The year she passed, I just was in disbelief and in denial," she said. "And then the following year, my brother unfortunately passed away. And then the year after that, the [Selena] movie came out, so I really grieved with the family. I grieved Selena, I grieved my brother all at the same time. So, I've really been attached to her in a very personal way. It has just been incredible to have so much of my own personal history, my own personal interests, be applied to my professional life in a way that I could give back to her the way that she's given to me."

A 2019 USC study found that Latinx characters make up less than five percent of Hollywood speaking roles. Being Mexican herself, González feels "immensely proud" to offer more Latinx representation on TV through her role. "I am incredibly aware of our statistics and our representation . . . so to have such a strong role in 2020 is incredible to show that we have stories to tell and that our stories are valued and that you're going to love them and you've been missing out," González explained. "I'm not only representing for the little girls watching me now, for the actresses that are alongside me, the artists that are females that are alongside me right now, but for the future actresses that can do more speaking roles and change those statistics even further."

While the real-life Suzette is heavily involved with the series (along with Selena's father Abraham Quintanilla Jr.), González has yet to officially meet her in person, but they have talked about getting together in the future. "We have connected in some way through social media, and it's been beautiful," she gushed. "The first time that I heard from her, I cried. We're going to meet soon. And I'm very, very, very excited to really come to that moment and be very present and honor it, and finally, truly get to meet her as opposed to us obviously wanting to connect."

Selena: The Series - which premieres on Dec. 4 - will chronicle Selena's impressive rise to fame, as well as all the tough decisions her family made to help her achieve her dreams. The biggest takeaway González hopes viewers learn is to "be a light when the going gets rough." "I hope that they take away to always believe the impossible is possible," she added. "I hope they take away that Selena left her mark and her legacy will live on forever. If you keep sharing the story of a girl who had a dream and even posthumously made it come true, that's the power of spirit and that's the power of positivity and hard work that you can see in Selena."