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 1 septembre 2017
Ghirardelli Has Brought Back This Pumpkin Beverage Due to Popular Demand!
We had a chance to try Ghirardelli's Pumpkin Spice Caramel Hot Cocoa ($5), which is back by popular demand this year! The seasonal favorite was launched in Sept. 2010 and was discontinued in 2012. But it's officially back, and dang it if we were not blown away by how good it really is. The frothy milk tastes subtly sweet with the authentic taste of pumpkin and caramel. The whipped cream, topped with a generous drizzle of caramel (and a Ghirardelli Pumpkin Spice Caramel Square that melts into the hot drink), will send you soaring on a fluffy sugar high.
The only thing that can make it better is the addition of an espresso shot (50 cents each). Yep, we discovered a "secret" menu item: Pumpkin Spice Caramel Mocha! Even if you drink your coffee without sugar, you'll appreciate this decadent, seasonal beverage. The espresso accentuates the chocolate flavor and balances out the syrupy caramel. It's available starting on Sept. 5 in Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shops and Ghirardelli Chocolate Outlets, so prepare to embrace pumpkin spice season in all its glory and try it for yourself ASAP!
In addition to the Pumpkin Spice Caramel Hot Cocoa, Ghirardelli has rereleased the following items:
- Ghirardelli Pumpkin Pie Latte ($5, available now)
- Ghirardelli Pumpkin Spice Caramel Squares ($20 for 40, available Sept. 5)
- Ghirardelli Pumpkin Pie Caramel Shake ($8, available Sept. 5)
What the Wall's Destruction Means For the Next Season of Game of Thrones
The unthinkable has finally happened: the Wall came tumbling down on Game of Thrones, thanks to the undead Viserion's fiery blast. It was the very definition of an OMG moment, and now that we've had time to scrape our jaws off the floor, it's time to consider what the fall of the Wall means for Westeros. In short, it means everyone is screwed, but this new development is sure to make season eight an intense ride. The Night King and his army are officially marching south, and the barrier between Westeros and the true North is no more. Everything the citizens of the Seven Kingdoms thought they knew about their world is about to change in a major way.
Season eight is still a long (long) way off, but the destruction of the Wall is such a major event that the time to start thinking about the ramifications is now.
The Wall's Magic Has Been Broken
Bran the Builder, the Children of the Forest, and the giants teamed up to build the Wall thousands of years ago when the Children of the Forest's little White Walker experiment got out of hand. They used a mix of good old-fashioned manual labor and magic to construct the massive barrier between Westeros and the expansive North, with the goal being to prevent the White Walkers from ever entering the Seven Kingdoms again. In season six, Benjen Stark tells Bran and Meera that "ancient spells were carved into its foundation" and that as long as the Wall stood, the dead would never pass.
That magic couldn't withstand the onslaught of a dragon, though, and it's safe to say whatever spells were in place have effectively been broken. With so few practitioners of magic left, there's little hope of rebuilding the Wall. Everyone who lives in Westeros needs to band together to destroy the White Walkers for good this time, because there is no plan B. If they leave even one wight alive, they're doomed.
The Illusion of Safety Will be Gone
Sam spent most of season seven trying to convince the maesters that the Night King and his army were nothing to scoff at. However, Archmaester Ebrose's words sum up the reaction people had when Sam told them about the coming war: "The Wall has stood through it all, and every Winter that has ever came has ended." Ebrose and a whole lot of other people will now have to reevaluate their idea of safety because the Wall no longer stands.
The illusion that nothing beyond that great barrier could touch them is gone now. And with the Wall gone, fear is going to become a motivating factor for quite a few people. King's Landing may become flooded with refugees, which would put even more of a strain on the capital's food supply, while others may turn on the living as they scramble to keep themselves safe. More than that, the people are going to have confront the fact that this thing that they put so much faith in failed them and all of the stories they thought were fairy tales are real.
The Night King Is Free to Attack the Seven Kingdoms
After years of marching, the Night King is completely free to lay siege on the Seven Kingdoms. This isn't just scary because his army is deadly; it's terrifying because he now has limitless access to new recruits. Before, the only dead things he could raise were the ones beyond the Wall, but now he has access to everyone in Westeros. Meanwhile, Jon and Daenerys's army is finite. Expect more than one of your favorite characters to be turned before the war ends. With just six episodes left, Game of Thrones is going to be aiming to break as many hearts as possible.
The Night's Watch Will Be Forever Changed
With no Wall to guard, the institution of the Night's Watch may disappear forever. In recent history, they've been tasked with keeping the Wildlings out, but there's no time to hold on to petty grudges now. The Night's Watch no longer has a Wall to protect, and their true enemy is in the Seven Kingdoms. When the Great War ends, so will the brotherhood that has been protecting the realm since the Wall was built.
The North Will Fall First
It's no coincidence that almost all of the major players are currently in the North. Winterfell is sure to be a hub for the first part of season eight as the Night King's army pours into the region. Ideally, Jon, Daenerys, and their combined armies would be able to stop the White Walkers before they push further south. Unfortunately, that outcome seems unlikely, which means the North will almost certainly fall.
There Are Going to Be a Whole Lot of Battles
Season seven's battle scenes are sure to seem small in comparison to what lies ahead. With the White Walkers free to flood into Westeros, the skirmishes between the living and the dead will be epic. For viewers, that means you are almost guaranteed to see epic moments like Jaime and Brienne fighting side by side, Arya taking out a wight with her Valyrian steel dagger, and some dragon vs. dragon action as Drogon and Rhaegal face off against Viserion. Of course, some of our heroes will die, but the end of the Wall guarantees season eight will be a war story, and deaths are unavoidable.
The destruction of the Wall is a game changer. No one is safe going into season eight, and by the time the series ends, Westeros as we know it will be a very different place. Let's just hope it's still populated by the living.
Listen Up, Fives: Sansa Stark Is a 10 and You Better Recognize
One thing I personally love about Game of Thrones is the number of badass women it has - women who have been through hell on earth and come out swinging. I'm talking about Cersei Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Olenna Tyrell, Brienne of Tarth and Sansa Stark. That's right, Sansa of House Stark, eldest daughter of Ned and Catelyn and Lady of Winterfell. Who, even after the craziness of season seven's finale where she took a serious level up in baddass, people still hate on. Look, I get it. Every character has haters for various reasons, and they feel completely justified for it. That's totally fine, but if you hate Sansa Stark because of her past characterization, you're wrong and I'm here to tell you exactly why.
Let's Clear One Thing Up For You Sansa Haters
We first meet Sansa when she's a preteen girl - not just any preteen girl, but one that has been raised as the eldest daughter of a great House and had her head filled with pretty songs and romantic stories. She's naive, lost in dreams of perfect princes, and undeniably spoiled. Basically, she's every little girl who had the fortune to live a sheltered, idealistic life with no real concerns aside from being a proper lady. She's just as bratty as one would expect, much like her younger sister, fan favorite Arya, although yes, in a different way. So why all the hate? A lot of it stems from Sansa seen as the "soft" female character, one of the most classically feminine characters on the show. She likes "girlie" things, she faints, and she cries a lot. But these reasons are incredibly superficial and sexist; as if Sansa's femininity is a weakness instead of it being another reason she's fierce in the same way that Cersei or Dany, who are also very feminine characters, are. Instead, people take Sansa's initial passiveness as a sign of her overall character and never see her beyond that. This brings me to my first reason that Sansa Stark is a badass queen.
She's Been Through Hell and Back, but She's Survived
After her father's beheading, Sansa's life spins all the way out of control. She's entirely alone, with her family being killed off one after the other, and she's being put through her own hell at the hands of the ruling family. Everywhere she turns is another person just waiting to use her as a pawn in their little game. Through all of this, Sansa does not back down. She plays the part of a demure lady and uses her grace and courtesy as her armor to stay alive in court. She doesn't have a true protector while at King's Landing, so she toes the line to keep herself in the good graces of Joffrey and Cersei, or rather, keeps herself under the radar just enough to suffer their disdain. Even when she's physically beaten in front of the court, she maintains her facade and doesn't slip when Tyrion helps her out. Sansa is smart enough to know when to go along with things and keep her mouth shut. There's a reason Tyrion says, "Lady Stark, you may survive us yet." He knows that her abilities to adapt and keep her cards close to her chest are skills vital to surviving in King's Landing, and he respects her for learning how the game is played. Though Sansa does tend to trust the wrong people (looking at you, Petyr the Creeper), she survives everything they throw at her, whether it be her insane Aunt Lysa, Ramsay, or Petyr himself. She comes out stronger, smarter, and more determined than before. She is not the same little girl whom Cersei called "little dove."
Her Strength Isn't Magical, It's Realistic
Of all the Starks remaining, Sansa is the only one who hasn't had any supernatural or otherworldly help to get to where she is. She isn't the three-eyed raven, hasn't been taught by any Faceless Men and assassinated multiple people with said teachings, nor does she have R'hllor ready to bring her back to life, while possibly being the Prince That Was Promised. Sansa is a normal person in a chaotic world, using her brains and the help of the other ordinary people around her to survive. That's one of the main reasons she is able to connect with people on a level that Jon, Arya, and Bran cannot; she is realistic, grounded, and powerful in her own right. That's why her growth over the seasons has been so great to see, because she doesn't have magical powers or dragons to save her. She has to be smart enough to find what and who will work for her. Even when her sister is freaking her out with talks of taking faces and deadly threats, Sansa does her homework and works with both Bran and Arya to take down Littlefinger after his attempts to divide the siblings.
People Continue to Be Terrible, but She Stays Gracious
Despite everything that's happened to her, Sansa has managed to keep her compassionate nature. Sansa is sweet to Tommen during her time in King's Landing, even though he's part of the family that tortures her, probably because she recognizes a kindred spirit in the little boy. She risks the ire of Joffrey and Cersei to save Sir Dontas's life, and during the Battle of the Blackwater, she is the one who calms the people of King's Landing despite being terrified herself. At the Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn, she shows affection to Little Robin even though he's every babysitter's worst nightmare. Some may say she's lost that kindness by the premiere of season seven, after she argues with Jon about what to do with the land of Houses Umber and Karstark. However, an important distinction to make is that Sansa isn't advocating for the execution of anyone. She is wisely saying that it might not be smart to allow highly vital pieces of land to be controlled by people they don't know they can really trust who may hold grudges against them. Also, one of them is literally a child. Not everyone is Lyanna Mormont!
She Is Her Mother's Daughter and Not Here For Your Macho BS
After Jon is crowned King in the North in season six, we all knew there would be some tension between him and Sansa, especially because he has a habit of not listening to her advice. In the premiere of season seven, we see this trend continue and that Sansa is definitely not about that life. She does not gave a damn if Jon is king - if she has questions, she's going to ask them. After all, of all the Starks who remain, Sansa understands the nuance of the political realm the most having spent so much time in King's Landing and having Littlefinger as a "mentor." Though it makes things way more awkward having the two of them argue in front of all Northern houses, it shows Sansa's refusal to stay silent on matters when she might have before. No longer will this lady sit by, passively playing the games of King's Landing; she is in the North and will express her opinion when she sees fit. This is why it makes perfect sense that Jon leaves Winterfell in her hands when he goes off to Dragonstone: he understands that Sansa is highly capable and the best person to rule in his stead. Which she proves by aptly handling their resources and the heads of houses when they start to question Jon as a ruler.
Home Is Where Her Heart Is, and She'll Fight Anyone For It
As she gets older and has more agency, Sansa's fight for survival changes. She's not fighting for the Iron Throne like Dany or Cersei; instead, she's fighting to save her home and keep it. Everything she's done has been to get back to Winterfell, the last place she truly felt safe. When she reunites with Jon, she is the one to push him to fight for Winterfell when he would rather stay away from another war. She repeatedly urges him to gather whatever people he can to join the fight. She even teams up with Petyr, getting wiser to his games each time, and wins the Battle of the Bastards by securing reinforcements from the Vale. When Jon leaves Winterfell for Dragonstone, she works to keep her people well-fed and the various lords content. In the last three seasons, Sansa has become a warrior of her own, with her wits and words rather than weapons. Which some wouldn't think amounts to much against dragons, Red Witches, and White Walkers, but it's been proven that brute strength is nothing without a quick mind to direct the hit.
Game Recognizes Game
As many people love to point out, Sansa's greatest mentors are the very people she despises: Cersei Lannister and Petyr Baelish. Which is true; those two have the heaviest hands in Sansa's growth after the death of her parents. What that doesn't mean is that she's a mini version of either of them. It doesn't mean she admires them or wants to be like them at all. It means that, considering the circumstances, they helped open her eyes to the truth of what being a woman in Westeros is like and led the charge that ripped away Sansa's naïveté. Sansa learned the rules of the game from both Cersei and Peytr, and it will stay with her for the rest of her life. But so will the lessons she learned from her mother and father. It's the fundamental reason that Sansa remains a figure of good in the world of Game of Thrones; she may have been through some of the ugliest trials, but she also knows the good in the world. She knows how important honor, loyalty, and trust are in a world so full of darkness. Combine that with her lessons at the hands of Cersei and Littlefinger, and she's grown into a formidable lady of a great house.
She May Look Like a Tully, but She's All Stark
Sansa Stark is here to slay. Though raised by her mother to be every inch the proper lady, Sansa has the ability to be ice cold when she wants to be. Whether she's slapping little Robin across the face for getting out of control, taunting Ramsay about his bastard status, or letting Petyr know he can slide right the hell out of her DMs because she has no time for it, Sansa proves that being a lady doesn't mean she's afraid to put anyone in their place. I know you remember one of the few times Sansa let her wolf slip out, when Joffrey has her dragged out to look at the severed head of her father, boasting about how he would gift her with Robb's head as well, and Sansa replies, giving him the coldest side-eye ever, "Or maybe he'll give me yours." Don't play with this she-wolf!
Disney Just Released Official Rose Gold Minnie Ears, and We're Obsessed
If you're a true Disney parks fan, you live by the motto that there can never be "too many" pairs of Mickey and Minnie ears. Well, it's time to add to your collection, because Disney parks are now selling rose gold Minnie ears that park-goers are flipping out over.
The ears are shiny, sequined, and embody the millennial pink color we all know so well. A sparkly bow sits front and center. Check out the photos ahead, and make sure to seek out the rose gold accessory the next time you're at the parks!
Princess Diana's Most Captivating Moments With Kids
Princess Diana shared numerous sweet moments with her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, before her death in August 1997, but she had just as many heartwarming encounters with kids during her royal appearances across the globe. As part of her extensive charity work, the royal, who was a kindergarten teacher before marrying Prince Charles, had no qualms cuddling up to young children as she visited hospitals, schools, and orphanages. She would even get down on their level as they offered her gifts or flowers, much like her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, does when she interacts with her smallest fans. Not only have William and Harry carried on Diana's legacy for helping others, but they also share her love for children.
This Year's Hottest Pop Culture Halloween Costumes For Women
There's still a few months until Halloween, and sure, you might not be thinking about picking your pumpkins or buying your candy, but any self-respecting Halloween-lover knows that you have to start planning your costumes early. If you care this much, we know that you're looking for the perfect, most badass, timely costume, which is why you're also probably thinking of taking your inspiration from movies and TV, so we've rounded up the hottest costumes for this year. Ladies, rev your engines.
14 Healthy Add-Ins to Give Your Smoothie a Boost
I remember going to Jamba Juice in high school when I first got into the big smoothie craze, and every time they'd ask me if I wanted a "boost," I'd think "HECK no!" I had no idea what a the boosts really did, but I didn't want anything to mess with the taste of my Pink Starburst smoothie from the secret menu. But that was when I viewed smoothies as a sweet treat and less of a nutritious meal.
My approach to smoothies now is so different - I'm always thinking about what I can throw in there to enhance the nutritional profile of my favorite blends. They usually fall into a few categories: nuts and seeds, protein additions, greens, and supplement powders. Here's a quick look at all of those with some notes about my favorites.
Nuts and Seeds
They're not just for salads! Add some hearty nuts and seeds to your smoothie to amplify its nutrients (macro and micro!).
- Chia Seeds. Great to add fiber, protein, magnesium, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Flax Seeds. Up your fiber and omega-3s with about half the calories of chia.
- Almonds. Adding whole almonds to your smoothie increases the healthy fats, protein, and fiber - and sometimes adds a nice texture to your shake.
Protein
There are so many ways to add protein to your smoothie without supplements (but those are great, too - we'll get to that later). No matter your dietary restrictions, there's a way to add some extrasatiating, muscle-fueling protein to your favorite frosty blend. It'll help make your smoothie feel more filling, which is great if you're making it into a meal.
- Greek Yogurt. Or plain. Or Icelandic. Whatever you choose, you'll be adding a creamy base for your shake with probiotics and protein.
- Cottage Cheese. One of my favorite ways to make a smoothie creamier! I love making a strawberries 'n' cream protein smoothie or high-protein mango lassi with cottage cheese.
- Tofu. Tofu adds a thickness that makes a smoothie taste like a milkshake. If you're looking for plant-based protein, this brings in a ton!
- Beans. Can't do dairy or soy? Try beans! Yes, seriously. Beans add not only protein, but fiber as well. And the taste is super mild and takes on whatever fruit you've thrown in there.
Greens
Toss some leafy greens (or cruciferous veggies!) into the blender to add tons of healthy fiber and vitamins.
- Kale. It's one of the most popular smoothie add-ins (perhaps because it's the only way some people can tolerate kale). You'll add fiber, calcium, antioxidants, and vitamins to your blend with just a handful of leaves.
- Spinach. Arguably the mildest tasting green, it's my favorite of the bunch. You'll get similar nutritional value to kale, but with less of that "green" taste.
- Broccoli. Stay with me: broccoli can actually be pretty darn good in a smoothie. It's got tons of fiber and will help your digestion.
- Cauliflower. If you want to mix it up (or ditch the banana), try cauliflower - it's not a green, technically, but it'll certainly add nutrition!
Supplements and Powders
Lately it seems like there's always a new tincture, dust, or powder to add to your drinks, right? Well, some of them are pretty cool - and some of them taste great, too! Here are a just a few to check out.
- Protein Powder. I'd be remiss to skip protein powder. It's such a simple way to amplify nutrition - I always have a tub of my favorite (OK, maybe like four or five tubs) on hand for smoothies, shakes, and more.
- Collagen. Want the extra protein but don't want to change the taste? Collagen is for you. It's great for your hair, skin, nails, and gut health, too.
- Maca Powder. For an energy boost and balanced hormones, add maca to your smoothie. It's a little earthy, so try pairing it with cocoa in a chocolaty smoothie or with a nut butter.
Who's Still on Arya's Kill List on Game of Thrones?
Arya Stark is back in Winterfell on Game of Thrones, and she's in full revenge mode (with a side of some family bonding). Now that she's picked up a few tricks from the time she spent at the House of Black and White, she's using them to avenge her family, and she even dispatches of one of the most devious characters in the season finale - no tricks necessary. Arya had been merrily on her way to kill the queen, but decides to stop over at Winterfell right quick. When she finally reunites with her family, she also mentions the kill list - which Sansa initially laughs at, but then realizes it's a legit thing when Three-Eyed-Raven Bran mentions it too.
Arya's Kill List, if you don't remember, is the list of people she started reciting a few seasons ago after losing almost her entire family at the hands of various villains. There were 11 names on the list originally, which the fiercest Stark girl has not forgotten (except to eliminate one). If you've forgotten who's on it and what they did, we're reminding you of that and whether they're still alive (fun fact: the list is slightly different in the book than on the TV show).
Here's a Truly Incredible Story About Princess Diana at a Michael Jackson Concert
There are a ton of fascinating facts about Princess Diana's life, but some of my personal favorites are the ones that prove just how normal and fun-loving she was. Prince Harry recently revealed that his mom would even encourage silly behavior in him, saying that one of her mottos was, "You can be as naughty as you want; just don't get caught." And this story that I heard (while on my couch, drinking wine, in a rabbit hole of Diana videos on the internet) made me further realize that she was "The People's Princess" for a reason - despite her royal title, she was surprisingly relatable in her thoughts, actions, and interests.
Along with being a big admirer of the princess, I also happen to be a huge Michael Jackson fan, and the story of their first meeting put a huge smile on my face. In 1988, Diana and Prince Charles attended the London concert of Michael's Bad World Tour at Wembley Stadium. Before the show, the couple stopped backstage to meet the superstar and his staff. In an interview, Michael recalled that Diana called him away from the lineup to ask if he would be performing his 1987 hit "Dirty Diana." He replied, "No no, I took the song out of the show out of respect for you," - which makes sense, given that it's about a man-hungry groupie - but apparently, Diana had other ideas. "That's my favorite song!" she told Michael, to which he expressed his disbelief.
"At that point, I couldn't put it back into the show because it was too close to showtime," Michael said. Can we all just agree that the thought of Diana bopping in her seat to "Dirty Diana" is pretty incredible? As the conversation between the two went on, Charles became intrigued and walked up to them, asking, "What are you talking about?" Diana, being the badass that she was, replied, "Oh, nothing!" and walked off.
The princess had an affinity for popular music and counted artists like Freddie Mercury, Elton John, and George Michael as close friends. She and Michael forged a relationship as well, and the King of Pop admitted that she would often call him just to talk. They built a strong connection and bonded over their tumultuous upbringings, exploding fame, and experiences with the press (they were both massive tabloid fodder at the time). When Diana tragically passed away in August 1997, just days after Michael's birthday, he attended her funeral and went on to call her "one of the sweetest people I've ever known."
3 Essential DIY Cleaners That Will Make Your Kitchen Sparkle
Say goodbye to harsh cleaning agents and hello to all-natural cleaning sprays that are just as effective (if not better) at eliminating dirt and grime. This DIY tutorial will show you how simple it is to whip up your own kitchen cleaners using some simple household products.
- Distilled vinegar: to help cut through grease, eliminate stains, and has great antibacterial properties.
- Baking soda: to clean and deodorize surfaces.
- Castile soap: a vegetable- and oil-based liquid soap used as a natural cleaning agent.
- Citrus fruits: rinds of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits consist of a natural property called limonene, which helps cut through oily residue and will leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
These products are not only safe and effective but will also serve as a big money-savers for those who are on a budget. For more on how to keep your kitchen spic and span, read on for recipe details.
Citrus-Scented Vinegar
Ingredients:
Mason Jar
Lid
Vinegar
1 grapefruit
1 lemon
Directions:
Step 1: Wash and dry the fruit.
Step 2: Using a knife, gently slice off the rind of the fruit.
Step 3: Place the rinds into the jar and fill the jar with vinegar.
Step 4: Seal the jar tightly and store in a dark, cool cupboard for one to two weeks.
Step 5: When ready, pour vinegar through a strainer to filter the rinds. Vinegar is ready for use.
Step 6: To make each of the cleaners, combine the ingredients as listed below.
Microwave/Stovetop Degreaser
2/3 parts water
1/3 part vinegar
3 teaspoon baking soda
4 teaspoon of Castile soap
8-10 drops of essential oils (lavender, orange blossom, mint)
Spray bottle
Floor Cleaner
1 cup water
1 cup vinegar
4 tablespoon of Castile soap
8-10 drops of essential oils (i.e lavender, orange blossom, mint)
All-Purpose Cleaner
1 cup water
1 cup vinegar
8-10 drops of essential oils (lavender, orange blossom, mint)
Spray bottle
The Truth About the Royal Family's Religious Background
The British royal family frequents Westminster Abbey, has church-centered events, and releases statements to honor Christmas, but what religion do they actually practice? Are they Catholic, Anglican, Christian? The answer is more complicated than you might think.
Contrary to popular belief, the royal family is not Catholic. We repeat, they are not Catholic. The royals are in fact the head of the Church of England, which is a Protestant Anglican church, and they've been a part of this religion since the 16th century.
In fact, as early as 1521, the sovereign (or the monarch) of England has held the additional title of Defender of the Faith and supreme governor of the Church of England. The "Defender of the Faith" portion of this title dates back to King Henry VIII, who was given the name by Pope Leo X. In 1534, Henry VIII renounced the papacy (and broke ties with the Roman Catholic Church) and renamed himself the supreme head of the Church of England.
When Queen Elizabeth II took the throne, she was automatically linked to the Church of England. She was anointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury at her coronation in 1953, vowing to "maintain and preserve inviolably the settlement of the Church of England, and the doctrine worship, discipline, and government thereof, as by law established in England."
The queen, as a part of her duty to "defend the faith," employs the help of the prime minister to appoint the archbishops, bishops, and deans of the Church of England, and in return they vow to pay homage to her majesty.
Because the crown is so inherently tied to the Church of England, the royal family has been subject to strict rules regarding religion. Until recently, it was against the law for a member of the royal family to marry a Roman Catholic, unless they wanted to lose their spot in line for the throne. Although the marriage law changed in 2013, in order to actually rule the United Kingdom, you must still be raised Anglican. In other words, you can marry a Catholic but not be one yourself if you want to be king or queen one day. It might seem harsh, but as the head of the Church of England, it makes sense that you need to actually practice the Anglican religion.
These 18 Unreal National Parks Need to Go on Your Bucket List ASAP
They don't call it "America the beautiful" for nothing. The US has some seriously incredible national parks, so if you're thinking of planning a vacation, consider doing it in a nature-filled setting. We rounded up the best national parks our country has to offer - see if you agree with the locations that made the list.
Love what you're reading? Head over to our Snapchat for more awesome, bite-sized content!
They're Here! Check Out Our 11 Favorite Fall iPhone Cases
There are so many ways to demonstrate your excitement for Fall, but one of our favorites is switching out our phone cases. There are all sorts of fun options with leafy patterns and pumpkin hues. An iPhone case is just as important as any other accessory you would wear, so buy yourself a new one. Take a look at our 11 favorites for your consideration. You'll be glad you did.
6 Men Who Were Romantically Linked to Princess Diana
It's almost been 20 years since Princess Diana's tragic death and there's still so much interest in her life, especially her love life. Diana famously tied the knot with Prince Charles in a lavish ceremony in 1981, and they later welcomed two children together, Prince William and Prince Harry. While the former princess only walked down the aisle once, she was romantically linked to a few other men both during and after her marriage. Here are six men who caught Diana's eye.
6 Reasons You Should Go to a Wine Tour in Spain
Spain is one of the biggest tourist hubs in the world. People are drawn to its sunny beaches, rich history, never-ending nightlife, sangria, and of course, the infamous siestas. From Madrid to Mallorca, the possibilities for experiencing Spanish culture are endless.
Though tourists flock to the southern region for a getaway, the north is packed with excitement and adventure too. A main attraction? Wine tasting in the wine-making region of La Rioja! You may recognize this area of Spain, as it was featured on the most recent season of The Bachelorette. Between the hilly greenery and stunning architecture, these are a few reasons a wine tour should be added to your bucket list in Spain.
22 Thoughtful Gifts For the Grandpa Who Has Everything
If you struggle with what to buy your grandpa every time his birthday, a holiday, or Father's Day rolls around, stress no longer. To make your search easier, we shopped a wide array of thoughtful gifts that are both sweet and useful. Instead of getting an old cliched "Best Grandpa Ever" key ring, go above and beyond and surprise him with a cool new gift that might even challenge him to learn something new. So whether you want to get him a Fitbit so he can track his steps or a new game you guys can play together, we found a variety of fun choices. Shop these top picks that are perfect for Gramps.
A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Lemonade Between Beyoncé, Rachel Roy, and JAY-Z
In early July, JAY-Z dropped his thirteenth solo album 4:44, and the project quickly garnered attention for personal, pointed lyrics about his marriage to Beyoncé - specifically, the cheating accusations she made on Lemonade in 2016. JAY apologized to his wife on the album's title track, saying, "I apologize often womanize / Took for my child to be born / See through a woman's eyes." He also brought up Beyoncé's infamous "Becky with the good hair" lyric on another song, "Family Feud": "Yeah, I'll f*ck up a good thing if you let me / Let me alone, Becky."
In April 2016, the world was forever changed when Lemonade, the visual album by Beyoncé, roared through HBO. There was plenty of buzz surrounding the mysterious event, and we're not just talking about the rumblings in the Beyhive. As the special aired, not only did viewers try to derive the meaning of the album's name, but the greater, more personal implications were also hard to ignore. We all couldn't help but wonder: did Jay Z cheat on Beyoncé? It wasn't long before fans latched onto a scapegoat, citing past drama and a cryptic Instagram caption as damning evidence. It seemed clear that fashion designer Rachel Roy had done the deed. But how much did we actually know about the situation? How sure are we that Rachel was Jay's other woman? We're breaking down everything, so read on, learn your facts, and arrive at your own conclusion.
8 Secrets From Cruise Ship Employees
A lot goes on behind closed cabin doors on cruise ships. Are your accommodations actually clean? Do crew members even care if you're having a good time? And just how much sex is happening on board the boat? Several cruise ship employees have taken to Reddit over time to spill the beans on what life is really like when sailing the open seas, and they have some great tips for cruise-goers to keep in mind the next time they travel. Read on for details you never knew.
1. There are some major benefits (and downsides) to working on a cruise ship.
One cruise ship employee said that there were a lot of positive aspects to working on the ship. "Best parts: cheap drinks, great parties, decent pay, easy way to save, wake up in a new city/country almost everyday, great way to network, become a more confident person, etc." Employees get to travel the world! Still, not everything is great. There are understandably some downsides to living and working on a cruise ship. "Worst: guests are always right . . . ALWAYS, you have a nametag on in public areas even when you are 'off duty,' always tired from lack of sleep, food taste dull after awhile . . . " Because employees are on contract for shorter periods of time, they often work longer hours (up to 16 hours per day).
2. If you get off the ship, follow the crew!
"If you ever go on a cruise, and you get off the ship and you want to know where to eat, follow the crew. The crew knows where the cheap and good food is, where the best dive bars are, and for the most part the safest places in the area. Don't waste money at Señor Frog's like everyone else."
3. Crew members get VERY friendly with one another.
Multiple crew members seem to agree on one thing: sex between employees is definitely happening on cruise ships. One former employee said he "hooked up with like seven different people myself and I am a shy, average looking dude." Another, when asked if a cruise ship is like a "sea-orgy" where everyone bangs each other, responded seriously with "Yes, it's actually just one big bang-fest." However, relations between employees and guests are strictly forbidden and grounds for immediate termination of the cruise ship employee.
4. Pay for crew members comes with extra add-ons - and it's not all that difficult to get hired.
"We get paid daily wages and some days we work more than others. Only thing I pay for is drinks. Everything else is on them." Depending on what cruise line a person is working with, members can also potentially get discounts on cruises for personal vacations. "You don't really have any bills on board (aside from tourist traps and drinking)," said a former cruise ship employee. "It was relatively easy to get in, but I'm very good at interviews. If you know what you're doing in the field of your choice, you'll have no problem . . . "
5. Crew members really want you to have the vacation of a lifetime.
"We work extremely hard to make sure you have a vacation of a lifetime . . . Those cruise surveys are actually taken VERY serious with our company. I'm happy to say that I've been mentioned ALMOST every cruise I've worked. I also work extremely hard to make sure the kids are having the time of their lives."
6. Cleanliness is VERY important!
If you're worried about sanitation on cruises, fear no more - or at least fear a little less. "Crew had to wash hands entering and leaving the crew mess. Chicken, seafood, bread, and vegetables all have separate freezers and storage sections (and elevators) which are cleaned daily. It's no joke! They have people clean the little grooves in the metal going into the elevators just to give you an example." According to another crew member, the kitchens on cruise ships are, in a word, "spotless."
7. If a crew member gets sick, they are quarantined.
"If they even think you have the flu, you're in quarantine for up to a week. In your cabin. Food is brought to you in a sealed container and you. Can. Not. Leave. Period. The ship is a natural hot zone. Over 4,000 people crammed together for sometimes a week at a time, bound to happen. If the ship gets over 5 percent ill, that's when things start to get nasty. Mandatory face shield etc. Also, whenever anyone gets on the ship, they get a hand full of Purell. Mandatory. And nobody can bring food on or off. They take cleanliness very seriously."
8. The one thing crew members want cruise-goers to know . . .
"The one thing that cruisers should know is that during a port day, the crew are just like passengers. They go out and have fun! On sea days however, they work their asses off to make you have the best time of your life. They really do want to make your vacation amazing, and work hard to do so."
Your Ultimate Guide For the Most Authentic Austin Adventure
Located smack on the edge of the Hill Country region is where you'll find it: the sizzling little slice of the South known as Austin, Texas. Recognized as the live-music capital of the world, this vibrant city has long been acclaimed for its distinctive quirky culture and art-centric focus. And with an unofficial slogan of "Keep Austin Weird," you can expect an abundance of good times to start rolling as soon as you arrive.
So whether you're thinking of heading this way for the endless live music, to two-step at an authentic honky-tonk and chow down on delicious barbecue, or to simply allow your spirit to roam free and wander, we've rounded up 11 ways to make sure you have the ultimate authentic Lone Star experience. Ready for an unforgettable Austin adventure?
This Spectacular 4-Night Train Trip Across Canada Only Costs $397!
We're seeing a resurgence in train travel, and it's easy to understand why. It's an amazing way to take in the views of the place you're exploring. Sure, we've all seen the viral post about traveling across America by train for $213, but there's a new travel opportunity that's catching our eye.
Via Rail Canada offers a four-night, three-day trip on a train called the Canadian. The journey from Toronto to Vancouver, British Columbia, costs only $397, which is a great deal for the amount of time you get on the train. Keep in mind that the trip may fluctuate in price as it grows in popularity. The scenic route shows you all the beauty the country has to offer. "Leave the city centre behind and glide through gentle prairie fields, rugged lake country and picturesque towns to the snowy peaks of the majestic Rockies," Via Rail states on its site.
The stops on your journey include Sudbury Junction, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Kamloops, and Jasper. Via Rail says it offers an amazing dining experience and huge picture windows while on your ride. Take a look at the video that will give you a taste of what this Canadian adventure is like!
In "Life Is a Lie" News, Prince's Sister Says His Favorite Color Was Actually Orange, Not Purple
Prince's sister Tyka Nelson is opening an exhibition of the late superstar's belongings in London this Fall, and while talking about the exciting project to the Evening Standard this week, she dropped a very surprising tidbit that blew our hair back. When asked about the "never-before-seen articles" that would be on display at The 02 in October, Tyka - who is Prince's last living full-blood relative - said, "The standout piece for me is his orange Cloud guitar. It is strange because people always associate the color purple with Prince, but his favorite color was actually orange." I'm so sorry, what?
Are we talking about the same Prince here? I don't recall ever seeing a movie called Orange Rain or listening to an artist nicknamed The Orange One (that would obviously go to President Donald Trump). So who is this one-in-a-million rock legend whose favorite color was "actually orange?" Not my Prince, that's for sure. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be listening to the song "Purple Rain" from the soundtrack to the film Purple Rain while painting my apartment the shade of purple that was recently created in The Purple One's honor.
For Patty Jenkins, Making Wonder Woman Was Literally a Dream Come True
"She inspires me still," Patty Jenkins says of Wonder Woman. She's huddled around a table with a small group of journalists in a New York City hotel to discuss the superhero film's upcoming DVD release, and her love for the iconic character is palpable. "Ever since she did when I was a kid, to be all things that I want to be: to have love and to have weakness, to have a sense of humor and have greatness, and to think for yourself."
It's clear that Jenkins, who's sitting next to the film's scene-stealing Lucy Davis, still can't believe she was given the utter privilege to direct a movie about a character she grew up idolizing. "The fact that she's so thoughtful about her use of power, and it's not glorious . . . it's serious the way she walks into it. I think, honestly, it's a spiritual model that I believe in . . . Making movies about stuff that you believe in always helps you be a better person, but when it's someone you would aspire to be, even more so it makes you think about your choices."
It wouldn't be right to call Wonder Woman's insane success over the Summer a surprise - as one of the DC Extended Universe's big-budget, superhero tent poles, it was always going to be a box office hit no matter what critics thought of it, if Batman v Superman and Suicide Squad were any indication. What people probably weren't expecting, though, was just how big of a triumph the film has become.
Not only has Wonder Woman's earnings surpassed more than a few male-driven superhero movies, but the Jenkins-directed, Gal Gadot-led flick got an overwhelmingly warm reception from both critics and fans. In such uncertain times, it's ended up being a much-needed source of inspiration and empowerment not just for women but also for anyone who's ever felt unsure of themselves.
"The idea of having that kind of communion with other people through a shared experience of something I made, and they saw, is unbelievable. That's art. That's what I'm here for."
Our chat with the director, who's still in talks to direct the highly anticipated sequel, came just a day before Terminator director James Cameron made some bafflingly off-the-mark comments that asserted Sarah Connor is a stronger female character than Wonder Woman because she's "troubled" and "not a beauty icon." Although Jenkins couldn't have possibly known his comments were coming, she actually spoke at length about why Wonder Woman is taken seriously despite her decision to steer the film away from being gritty and dark, like Man of Steel and the Dark Knight trilogy.
"I came in very definitively only wanting it [to have a lighter tone]. The choice of me [as director] became the choice for that tone. [Making a gritty Wonder Woman] probably was a conversation, and I peripherally heard of some of that. I always believed that Wonder Woman is not dark. If ever there's a place for a dark superhero, great. Do it. But that's not Wonder Woman to me. That's not a way I would want to make Wonder Woman," she says. "I love this genre, which I feel is almost a little bit of a pocket that nobody else is doing, which is the grand, classic Superman superhero; a totally sincere love story. So I was like, if not Wonder Woman, who? She's a great opportunity to do that because that's what she really stands for. I was very clear about what I wanted to do and very supported."
Of course, after Cameron's comments went public, Jenkins shared her unfiltered thoughts on the matter with a tweet. After pointing out that multidimensional female characters come in all shapes and sizes, she noted that "there is no right and wrong kind of powerful woman. And the massive female audience who made the film a hit it is, can surely choose and judge their own icons of progress." Though the 2017 Wonder Woman audience is a vocal one, it's no secret that the Diana Prince character has been around for years. The immensity of her legacy is one that Jenkins is still coming to terms with, she tells us. Fortunately, there's one person who's gone through the same situation, one whom Jenkins regularly turns to for support: Lynda Carter, who played Wonder Woman on TV and whom Jenkins talks to "two or three times" a week.
"There will forever be kids who are touched by Wonder Woman, who will talk to me about my version of Wonder Woman."
People like Cameron might not be able to understand the true impact Jenkins and Gadot's Wonder Woman has had, but they don't have to. Wonder Woman has done just fine without them and will continue to for quite some time. The digital release of Wonder Woman is set for Aug. 29, and the DVD will follow a few weeks later on Sept. 19. On top of that, Gadot will reprise the character in Justice League this November (though Jenkins says she's had little to no input on how Diana will be portrayed), and then it's another long wait until the Wonder Woman sequel hits theaters in December 2019. In other words, don't expect the fervor to die down anytime soon.
"You would think a movie would come out, and it would be as successful as it was, the end," Jenkins adds. "But now, I've realized, 'No, this conversation will have different resonance going forward that will continue.' It's never going to stop. It's kind of cool."
Princess Diana Was the First Member of the British Royal Family to Have Done This
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Princess Diana was known for many things during her lifetime - being a great mother to sons Prince Harry and Prince William, her amazing sense of style, and her beautiful smile - but ultimately, she is best remembered for her undying passion for helping others. Diana was a patron of more than 100 causes around the world, some of which Prince William and Prince Harry now champion.
One of the charities in question is the National AIDS Trust. The trust promotes the awareness of AIDS and helps prevent the spread of HIV, and in April 1987, Diana was invited to open the UK's first AIDS ward at Middlesex hospital. During her visit, Diana challenged the notion that HIV/AIDS was passed on by touch when she shook the hand of a dying AIDS patient without wearing gloves. Not only was it a brave and compassionate move, but it also marked the first time a member of the royal family had ever come in contact with a person with HIV or AIDS without wearing any protective gear. "HIV does not make people dangerous to know," Diana explained. "You can shake their hands and give them a hug. Heaven knows they need it."
In the years following, Diana continued to make regular hospital visits and she even brought her sons along with her. Gavin Hart of the National AIDS Trust later told BBC that Diana had done so much to remove the stigma of AIDS. "In our opinion, she was the foremost ambassador for AIDS awareness on the planet and no one can fill her shoes in terms of the work she did."
Image Source: Getty / Chris Jackson
As a result of Diana's efforts, the cause has also become close to Harry's heart. After wrapping up his exams at Eton College in 2003, the prince took a gap year and traveled to Africa, where he worked with children affected with AIDS. In 2006, he set up his charity Sentebale to support orphans and children affected by the epidemic, and 10 years later, Harry challenged the HIV stigmas when he visited a local HIV clinic in London and got tested live on Facebook. "If you're a man, woman, gay, straight, black, white, whatever - even ginger - why wouldn't you come and have a test?" he said. While the results came out negative, the gesture only showed the strong impact Diana left on her children and all of those who knew her.
9 Slang Words You Should Stop Using If You Don't Want to Look Lame AF in 2017
2016 was an unpredictable year, to say the least. Part of what made the year so interesting was all of the new slang words people were using to express themselves. As the year came to a close, we rounded up the top nine terms that should've been left behind with everything sh*tty about 2016. Keep reading to see if any of your favorite slang words made our list ahead.
Curious About the Ayurvedic Diet? Here's the Full Rundown
One thing you learn early on as you're nailing down your personal health and fitness routine is that whatever diet worked for your best friend or mom might not be the best choice for you. Luckily, there are many diets out there to choose from, whether it's vegan, Paleo, or Weight Watchers.
The Ayurvedic diet is a good option as well, but it's not as well known as its peers, so we're here to give you a little information on this holistic way of eating. The first thing you have to know is that Ayurveda is a traditional medical system that hails from India (it traces back 5,000 years!), and the core principle is that you choose what to eat depending on your body's dosha, which is a certain energy believed to move through your body, affect your digestion, and govern physiological activity. Ayurveda is sometimes referred to as a science of life, so it's about much more than what you eat. It's also about balancing your mood, sleep, and general attitude.
There are three different doshas - Kapha, Pitta, and Vata - and although all three are present in all humans, there is one that is your dominant. Once you figure out which one that is, you subsequently follow the diet suggestions that come along with it. An Ayurvedic diet can certainly help you lose weight, but it's not about counting calories or macronutrients. It's about eating whole foods and coming back to an equilibrium, which will help you reach your body's optimal weight.
Here's a breakdown of what each dosha looks like, and what kind of food is associated with it.
Kapha
People with a Kapha dosha tend to be steady, grounded, and thoughtful. According to Ayurvedic principles, those who are dominated by Kapha tend to be a little heavier. They have regular digestion, sleep soundly, and don't deal with change very well. Some additional physical characteristics might include thick hair, large eyes, and smooth, oily skin.
They're easily cold, so it's recommended that Kapha individuals stay warm and dry. Additionally, this dosha is known to be a bit sluggish, so many of the suggestions, when it comes to both lifestyle and diet, tend to focus on stimulation in order to balance this out. Kapha's elements are earth and water, and its primary function is protection.
Here are some diet guidelines they're advised to follow:
- Eat little to no dairy
- Cook with strong spices, like ginger, cayenne, and pepper
- Consume small amounts of fats and oils, because these can be too grounding
- All vegetables are recommended
- Stick with lighter fruits, like berries, apples, and pomegranates, rather than bananas or pineapples
- Limit your intake of red meat
Pitta
The elements associated with Pitta are fire and water, so Pitta individuals are known to be intense and bold, and they have an abundant amount of energy. They have great digestion but very easily overeat, which can cause an upset stomach, heartburn, and even peptic ulcers. Pittas can concentrate very easily; they're outspoken, but they're also short-tempered. They sleep well, but usually for short amounts of time.
Because Pittas are sharp and pungent, it's important that their diet balances out this fiery way of life. Here are some diet tips:
- Don't skip meals or wait until you're extremely hungry to eat
- Eat milk, butter, or ghee to help balance out the heat of your dosha
- Cook with olive, sunflower, or coconut oil
- Buy sweet fruits, like melons, cherries, mangoes, and ripe pineapples
- The best vegetables are asparagus, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and broccoli
- Avoid tomatoes, hot peppers, spicy foods, eggplant, onion, and garlic
Vata
Vatas generally have a thin frame, dry skin and hair, and cold hands. They have sensitive digestion and are quick to anger. They love adventure and experiencing new things, yet at the same time they can struggle with anxiety and worrying. An Ayurvedic belief is that, when a Vata is imbalanced, they will lose weight, be constipated, and struggle with restlessness and even arthritis.
Because their elements are air and ether, it's important for Vatas to keep themselves grounded and consistent. Light activity is best for them, such as yoga or short hikes, and heavy, warm aromas make them feel calm (think basil, cinnamon, and lavender).
This is the outline of what a Vata should be eating:
- Rice and wheat are recommended on a daily basis
- Choose to eat cooked, rather than raw, vegetables
- Avoid beans (except for tofu), which can aggravate the digestive system
- Consume fats and oils, such as ghee and olive oil
- Eat heavy fruits, like avocados, bananas, and figs, and avoid lighter fruits, such as apples and pears
- Dairy products are encouraged, particularly low-fat ones
27 Game of Thrones Season 8 Theories to Read Until the Show Returns
The following contains spoilers for Game of Thrones season seven.
Game of Thrones season seven is officially finished, and while the season left us with a lot of definitive answers about the series - like the truth about Jon Snow's claim to the Iron Throne - there are still a helluva lot of questions left to answer. Based on how the season ended, we've got quite a few theories about how the show's final installment will play out when it returns to air. We're talking deaths! Love stories! Babies! Revenge! The eighth and last season is going to be more fiery than "dracarys."
Read on for our predictions (and hopes) for next season. There will be prophecies fulfilled, hearts broken, and kill lists to complete . . . but, most importantly, Winter has come to Westeros, and the Night King isn't slowing down for anybody.
A Sleep Physician Reveals 20 Expert Secrets to a Better Night's Rest
Sleep has never come easy to me - and I know I'm not alone with this issue. Whether it's waking up countless times throughout the night, getting up in the morning feeling as if I didn't sleep at all, or having trouble actually nodding off at night, I'm always looking for ways to improve my rest.
Dr. Nate Watson is a sleep specialist, past president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), professor of neurology at the University of Washington, and codirector of the University of Washington Medicine Sleep Center. So we're going to go out on a limb and say he knows what he's talking about when it comes to sleep. He recently did an IamA on Reddit to address people's questions about how to improve their sleep habits, and his answers are so enlightening. Read on to see his helpful advice.
1. I have had issues falling asleep since I was 6. My brain wont quiet down. I am constantly thinking about something. Any tips?
"I suggest that you start a worry journal in the evening, set aside 15 minutes before you go to bed - write down your negative thoughts and then close the book, allowing you to go to bed with those thoughts on the page, not in your head."
2. How can a person determine how much sleep they actually need?
"Adults need seven or more hours, but each person is unique. You may need nine hours a night to feel rested. Take three weeks to fall asleep when you are tired and wake up refreshed without an alarm. That should determine how much sleep you need personally."
3. Why are some humans more nocturnal and others more diurnal?
"Chronotype is the notion that some people are 'morning larks' while others are 'night owls.' Much of this is genetically determined."
4. Why is that when I'm home I have to be laying down and comfortable to fall asleep and sometimes it still takes a while, but at work I can fall asleep sitting up in a chair with background noise all around?
"Sleeping better outside of your typical home environment may indicate a problem with your home sleep environment. Check out this page for a lot of info that may help."
5. Why do we sleep?
"Much of that is yet to be determined. We do know that the spaces in the brain expand to allow clearing out of the day's thoughts - like a garbage man for the brain."
6. What are some exercises (if any) you can do to improve REM sleep or deep sleep in general?
"A hot bath before bed has been shown to increase deep non-REM sleep. Some medications can reduce REM sleep (anti-depressants)."
7. I have diagnosed sleep apnea but hate the machine (can never sleep comfortably with it). Any advice ?
"1) Make sure you are of optimal weight 2) Avoid sleeping on your back to keep nasal passages clear. These are conservative measures. Other options are oral appliances custom fabricated by a dentist. There are also surgical options from ear, nose, and throat specialists. We always recommend seeing a board-certified sleep specialist to sort this out for you."
8. Do you have any tips for napping? I don't know how long it will take me to get to sleep, so how do I know when to set an alarm?
"Just set your alarm for 10-15 min. from when you lay down so you don't wake from a deeper stage of sleep and be groggy."
9. Does length of sleep have more of an affect on a person than the actual quality of it? At what point does quality and length even out?
"The bottom line is that very few people are able to succeed and be healthy on less than seven hours of sleep per night. Many who claim to get little sleep are probably exaggerating - and if they're not, I suspect that they would be even more successful, and much healthier in the long term, if their brains and bodies were fully charged with sleep. We tend to be poor judges of our alertness level, and we underestimate how we are affected by insufficient sleep. In addition, there is a ton of data to support that not getting enough sleep puts you at greater risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more."
10. Does this length of sleep needed to feel rested differ from person to person or do we all collectively need exactly eight hours as many are told from youth?
"While most adults need seven or more hours of sleep each night, a small percentage of people function well on less sleep. If you feel refreshed when you wake up and remain alert throughout the day without needing to take a nap, then you may be getting enough sleep. But the problem is that we tend to be poor judges of our alertness level, and we underestimate how we are affected by insufficient sleep. In addition, there is a ton of data to support that not getting enough sleep puts you at greater risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Try sleeping seven plus hours for a week, and I think you'll notice a more energetic, productive version of yourself that you didn't know existed."
11. Why don't I dream? Or rather why don't I remember my dreams?
"You for sure are dreaming. You only remember them if you wake from the dream. Not waking from REM sleep is good and indicates you likely have healthy sleep."
12. How does one deal with insomnia?
"If you think you may have insomnia, ask yourself the following questions: 1) Does it take you more than 30 minutes to fall asleep, or do you wake up during the night and have trouble returning to sleep, or do you wake up earlier than desired? 2) Do you have daytime symptoms such as fatigue, moodiness, sleepiness, or reduced energy? 3) Do you give yourself enough time in bed to get at least seven hours of sleep each night? 4) Do you go to bed in a safe, dark, and quiet environment that should allow you to sleep well? If you answered 'yes' to all of these questions, then you may have insomnia."
13. Are there any ethical restrictions against conducting studies to see how long people can go without sleep beyond a certain point, and what is the cutoff, if there is one?
"Rats die after about three weeks of total sleep deprivation. This is how we know sleep is essential to life. I have seen studies of 24-36 hours of sleep deprivation, but not much longer than that."
14. Did it ever happen to you that you were dreaming and you suddenly fall out of nowhere in your dream then wake up in panic thinking you just fell?
"That's called a 'hypnic jerk' and it is normal."
How is it that I wake up almost exactly one hour before my alarm goes off?
"You are probably thinking about this before you go to bed - this could be a self-fulfilling prophecy and I recommend not looking at the clock."
15. Is sleeping on your stomach bad for you? Is there anything such as a good sleeping position that keeps pressure of certain organs?
"Sleeping position is mostly personal preference, but if you can't sleep comfortably on your back, it may be a sign of sleep apnea."
16. I seem to sleep fine, but hell am I tired constantly; what's that all about?
"There are medical causes for fatigue that you should have checked out by your doctor. This could also be an indication of a sleep disorder. Sleep and sleep disease, such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, are increasingly recognized as vital to a wide variety of public health and chronic disease concerns, including obesity, hypertension, and cancer. Definitely make sure you getting at least seven hours, too."
17. Why do some people enjoy "white noise" while they sleep?
"There is some thought that white noise might replicate the sounds you heard in the womb - making it soothing for children and adults."
18. Have you studied lucid dreaming at all?
"It is something that you can teach yourself and it can be an exhilarating experience. Stephen Laberge has produced some excellent teaching materials. Check them out!"
19. How do you feel about taking melatonin before sleep? Sometimes when I take melatonin I will wake up at 5 or 6 in the morning no matter what time I go to sleep. Why is this?
"Melatonin is not a 'sleeping pill' per se and has never been FDA approved. If you take it, then take it at least three hours before your intended bedtime, if not sooner, to notice any effect."
20. Can I train my body to need less sleep?
"Sorry, no."
7 Infamous Cults That Are Creepy as F*ck
I'll just start by saying that I'm obsessed with cults. Why am I obsessed with cults, you ask? Gosh, I wish I had an answer for you - they've just always fascinated me for some reason, maybe because I can't picture myself giving up everything I have to follow someone blindly. (Except for maybe Beyoncé; is the BeyHive a cult?) With the terrifying new season of American Horror Story: Cult upon us, I couldn't help but think about the famous real-life cults that have both intrigued and scared the sh*t out of me over the years. From the ones you probably know, like the Manson Family, to the ones you may not, here are seven sects that are crazy, dangerous, and creepy as f*ck.
Let These Before-and-After Playroom Photos Inspire You to Transform Your Space
Whether you've carved out space in your house for a kids' playroom or not, let's face it: it's probably not seeing a ton of play. Most playrooms these days serve as storage for all the toys and games your little ones have accrued over the years. If they do hang out in there, it's not long before they get bored. With ample space and plenty of supplies, how can this be?
We turned to Megan Schiller, founder of The Art Pantry, for answers. She specializes in revitalizing kids' playrooms by turning them into creative spaces to maximize their ingenuity and stimulate their artistic ability.
"Every design choice is rooted in my experience as a preschool teacher and art educator," she tells us. "I think about the ages of the kids, their interests, and how they play. Then I think about how to set up a space that would inspire them to explore, tinker, create, and get lost in their imagination."
Megan answered our nine most frustrating questions about how to create a playroom that keeps kids entertained for hours on end, revealing that it's not all about organization - though a little certainly doesn't hurt - and outlining how parents can let their kids get messy without ruining the furniture. For added inspiration, she also shared before-and-after photos of four different rooms she's revamped so that you can see her advice in action.
11 Times Princess Diana Showed William and Harry the Ropes on a Royal Tour
Prince George and Princess Charlotte have joined their parents, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, on their last two tours, which means they are very much following in the footsteps of their father, Prince William, and uncle, Prince Harry. It hadn't always been the case that royal parents would be accompanied by their offspring, and little princes and princesses would typically be left at home with their nannies, often for months at a time. However, when Princess Diana and Prince Charles were about to embark on a royal tour in 1983, Diana insisted they take their 9-month-old son William, and a new way of touring was born. From a young age, William and Harry accompanied their parents on many tours and engagements - here, we take a look at some of their best moments with their mom.
Pizza Hut Is Offering $5 Large Cheese Pizzas For 1 Day Only!
Source: Pizza Hut
The pizza gods have blessed us with an amazing Pizza Hut deal for National Cheese Pizza Day! To celebrate the very important cheese-focused holiday on Tuesday, Sept. 5, Pizza Hut will offer large cheese pizzas for just $5. All you have to do is use the code SAYCHEESE on Sept. 5, and the discounted pizza is yours. If a cheese-only pizza isn't your style, we probably can't be friends, but Pizza Hut is looking out for you, too. The company is offering 50 percent off menu-priced pizza orders placed through Pizza Hut's online ordering systems for carryout or delivery from Sept. 5 through Sept. 11. So go forth, grab your pizza-loving pals, and celebrate because you deserve nice things!
Source: 20th Century Fox
The 5 Things Interior Designers Always Notice in Your Home
Wouldn't it be so nice to know what an interior designer actually notices in your home? Having this information would make it that much easier when you clean or decorate new spaces, or even when you decide what to renovate and what to leave as is. It can be somewhat difficult to take a critical eye to your own space that you see consistently day after day, but knowing where to place your focus and creative energy would certainly help to take out some of that guesswork, so we decided to reach out to design professional Shelly Gerritsma from Canter Lane Interiors instead. Read on to learn the five design elements she always notices first and wants you to focus on first as well.
What Cersei's Prophecy on Game of Thrones Means For Her Fate
The seventh season of Game of Thrones is over, and Cersei is totally on her way to becoming the Mad Queen now that Jaime has abandoned her. As queen, Cersei has had one thing on her mind: revenge. Oh, and a new pregnancy. In the premiere, she talks to Jaime about her bloodlust while also dismissing their need to grieve over their other children, reminding us of the prophecy Cersei was once told, which she references last back in season six's premiere, just after she finds that her daughter Myrcella is dead. Here's what you need to know about said prophecy - and why it matters.
Cersei's Prophecy
Cersei mentions the prophecy of a witch she'd been told years ago: "She promised me three children . . . she promised me they'd die," she says, and of course, it wasn't all that long ago that we actually saw this scene on the show; it happens in the season five premiere. Here's the clip where a young Cersei visits Maggy the frog, the fortune teller in question.
"Everything she said came true . . ." Cersei says in the season six premiere to Jaime, her beloved brother and father of her three children - all three of whom are now indeed dead. "This prophecy, it's fate." So let's go over exactly what the witch did prophecize and how it all plays out on the show.
1. "You'll never wed the prince, you'll wed the king."
Did it come true? Yes. Cersei marries King Robert Baratheon and not "the prince" - Rhaegar Targaryen.
2. "You'll be queen, for a time. Then comes another, younger, more beautiful, to cast you down and take all you hold dear."
Did it come true? Yes, though the younger, more beautiful queen had been questioned. Margaery came to mind first as the young queen who was married to King Tommen, but now that she's dead, it's assuredly Daenerys Targaryen, the queen we are all hoping brings about the end of the Lannisters.
3. "The king will have 20 children and you will have three. Gold will be their crowns . . . gold their shrouds."
Did it come true? Yes. The king did have multiple illegitimate children without the help of Cersei, while Cersei bears just three: Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen - all three of whom have died. Joffrey and Myrcella are both poisoned, by Lady Olenna Tyrell and Ellaria Sand, respectively. Tommen tragically commits suicide by throwing himself out a window after he sees that Cersei has murdered his love, Margaery Tyrell. Now that Cersei is pregnant, a fourth child would contradict the prophecy, which has a lot of people believing that she will either die before her child is born, miscarry, or that she's not even pregnant at all.
What's Next?
But wait, there is one more piece to the prophecy in George R.R. Martin's books that did not make it into that scene in the show. The witch also tells Cersei: "And when your tears have drowned you, the Valonqar shall wrap his hands about your pale white throat and choke the life from you." "Valonqar" means "little brother" in Valyrian - and if we are taking that literally, that means Tyrion . . . or Jaime, who is her twin but could technically be her "little brother." (That really makes the incest somehow even grosser, right?) And it's theorized that her killer could be someone else entirely.
So, there's still a piece of the prophecy the witch predicted that we can look forward to: Cersei's murder!
Oh, Just 50 Photos of Fall Being the Best Season Ever
If you ask me, Fall is the most lovely season of the year. If you're in the right part of the world, temperatures will start to drop, the leaves will change colors, and pumpkin everything will be at your fingertips. To get yourself into the Fall mood - because it's nearly here - check out these 50 stunning photos of beautiful Autumn scenery from around the world.
There's a Very Good Reason Why We'll Never Hear the Night King's Voice on Game of Thrones
Spoilers for Game of Thrones below!
As much as we hate to admit it, the Night King is easily the undisputed MVP of Game of Thrones season seven. With 12,000 years of experience on his side and the undying love of his undead followers, the OG ice zombie (who might actually be the show's true hero, if you can believe it) is blazing quite the trail on his way to take over Westeros. Despite all that, don't expect the Night King to deliver an epic victory speech anytime soon.
During an interview with Deadline in 2016, the fantasy drama's showrunners, D.B. Weiss and David Benioff, revealed the reason why they've kept the Night King from getting too chatty. "We don't think of the Night King as a villain as much as Death. He is not someone who's like Joffrey or Ramsay. He's not really human anymore," they said. "Evil comes when you have a choice between that and good, and you choose the wrong way. The Night King doesn't have a choice; he was created in that way, and that's what he is. In some ways, he's just Death, coming for everyone in the story, and for all of us."
As we saw at the end of the season seven finale, yet another huge clue about the true identity of the Night King has emerged. Is he actually Bran, somehow? Or maybe another Stark ancestor? No matter who he really was before the Children of the Forest turned him into the first White Walker, we won't find out verbally. "In some ways, it's appropriate he doesn't speak," the showrunners explained. "What's Death going to say? Anything would diminish him. He's just a force of destruction. I don't think we've ever been tempted to write dialogue for the Night King. Anything he said would be anticlimactic."
With all the screeching zombie Viserion has been doing lately, we wouldn't be able to hear him anyway.
We're Freaking Out Over How Cute All This Workout Gear Is
If you've been feeling like your workout gear needs a refresher, now is the best time to address that. Not only are there so many prints, cuts, and styles to choose from, but activewear is ridiculously cute right now. Whether you need a low-impact sports bra for your Pilates jumpboard class, or full-length tights that will increase blood flow and help you warm up quickly on those chilly mornings, we have all the best sweat-ready gear you could ever want. Stock up and enjoy.
Trader Joe's Has the Mixer You Need to Make the Perfect Jalapeño Margarita
Let's face it: making a batch of jalapeño margaritas takes quite a lot of preparation. While the spicy cocktail is a summertime staple of many bars, it can be time-consuming to casually whip one up at home. That's why margarita enthusiasts are turning to Trader Joe's new jalapeño limeade.
The nonalcoholic beverage contains simple organic ingredients and about 400 calories per one-quart bottle. Though the zesty drink can be enjoyed alone, Trader Joe's shoppers have mainly been using it to make cocktails. Since its release in May, many have taken to Instagram to share their recipes. According to our Instagram search, the limeade pairs nicely with tequila, vodka, and even rum. To improve upon that extremely simple recipe, however, you can also add a splash or simple syrup and seltzer. At just under $3, this jalapeño margarita shortcut just can't be beat.
12 Tatted People Whose Love For Starbucks Is WAY More Real Than Yours
There are Starbucks fans, and then there are serious Starbucks fans - the kind who'd get a tattoo to prove it. If you've thought about getting a coffee tattoo but have your heart set specifically on Starbucks, you'll want to take inspiration from these 12 megafans who've tatted Unicorn Frappuccinos, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and Starbucks iced coffees on their bodies to show their appreciation for life. Whether you're truly considering a tattoo of your own or not, it's still fascinating to see the creative ideas people have shared. Grab your favorite Starbucks secret menu drink and enjoy a visual dose of caffeine with these coffee-lovers' tattoo ideas.
7 New Star Wars: The Last Jedi Characters We Just Met Thanks to the Toys
Ir's somewhat of a tradition for Star Wars toys to subtly reveal new Star Wars characters and give some plot hints about the next movie - in fact, one of the defenses for Rey not being featured in certain games for The Force Awakens was allegedly to prevent spoilers. So for this year's Force Friday reveal, we were hungrily awaiting bits of movie details the toys would give away. We're already psyched about the inclusion of more female characters, and we're pretty sure we know the droid everyone is going to be looking for, and we keep seeing more hints as more toys emerge. Here are some of the first looks at characters we've gotten for Star Wars: The Last Jedi!
14 Easy and Hilarious Taylor Swift Halloween Costumes Based on Her Lyrics
Taylor Swift fans are swimming in awesome Halloween costume ideas this year. From her reignited feud with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West to her new "Look What You Made Me Do" music video, Taylor's life (and love of Fall) is something that everyone can channel one night of the year. But what about the fans who want to take things to a whole new level? Well, Taylor's song lyrics actually provide hidden costume gems that will definitely help you take home any contest prizes. Keep reading to see what we mean, then check out these couples costumes that anyone can throw together.
This Pool Float Totally Throws Shade at Those Trendy Inflatable Swans - and We Love It
Unless you're in a social media blackout, you've undoubtedly seen the ubertrendy swan floats that bikini-clad Instagram It girls and bobbing boho music festival fans have been posing on all Summer long. Well, there's a new swan in town, and it's not shy about throwing shade at its overinflated predecessor. The hilariously named Ridiculous Inflatable Swan Thing ($43) is a collaboration with British artist David Shrigley. His stick-figure swans have garnered much attention as of late, so we have no doubt this life-size, pool-ready version will garner a few bemused stares as it gives the hand-drawn stink eye to its trendy floating counterparts at your local swimming hole and collects "likes" on social media.
Articles
