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.
samedi 31 mars 2018
The Simple Ways You Can Choose Happiness Today - and Every Day
Take a few minutes to scan your life and gauge how much of your day involves you doing something vs. waiting for something to happen. Do you find yourself needing permission to do things? Are you waiting for an opportunity to waltz into your life? Do you hold back on doing what makes you happy because of fear or uncertainty?
I write because it brings me joy. I act because it has been the most fulfilling form of expression for me. Both art forms give space to my hopes, my anguish, and any stirred-up energy I have inside. Via these mediums, I can illuminate ideas, spark conversations, and remind others that we are not alone. When I am looking to ante up my mood or if I find myself anxious or afraid, I put pen to paper or I take my fingers to the keyboard and release.
I think it is absolutely necessary to create a life that inspires and rejuvenates us every single day. I could not imagine a world without books and life without stories. I have the fondest memories of gathering around my tía as a child as her deep, hoarse voice resonated through my being. Her tales struck fear in my heart and opened my eyes to a world of imagination. I am realizing now that she planted the seed of wonder and the lust for life long ago right from her very living room.
We can't simply wish a happy life into existence; we must be the manufacturers and creators of that life.
Not one person in this world is born knowing how to do anything. We learn through experience and we sharpen our skills through discipline and dedication. It is not for anyone else to decide what we should be doing with our lives. It is our responsibility to take the necessary measures to cultivate our talents, enhance our capabilities, and simply be the best versions of ourselves.
We have to take back the reins and be the sheroes/heroes of our own stories. We are never too old nor is it ever too late to sign up for a dance class or go back to school. When your heart, body, and mind are in tune with the same song, you create music. That is the simple magic of life. The act of doing is the key here. The minute you set something in motion, you will quickly come to see that things begin to align; all of the right people, the right opportunities, and the experiences needed for your growth will find a way to meet you along your journey. There is not a cookie-cutter blueprint on life nor would any of us want to follow it. We tend to complain about and be afraid of uncertainty, but in reality, that is what makes life exciting. Root yourself in knowing that we are all deserving of joy.
There is no greater feeling or freedom in the world than doing what makes you happy. Regardless of the likes, money, or rewards that may come, do what you want to do because it makes life worth living. Do it because it shines light on the darkness or do it because it brings peace to your anxiety-stricken heart. We can't simply wish a happy life into existence; we must be the manufacturers and creators of that life. So go on - revel in anything and everything that brings you joy because it is no one else's business but your own.
These 22 Inspiring Miyazaki Quotes Will Move You to Tears
If you're familiar with the magic that is Hayao Miyazaki, then you already know just how amazing his movies are. If you're not familiar with Miyazaki and his Studio Ghibli works - the film studio he founded - then stop what you're doing and start marathoning his movies. NOW. Don't let the cute animated characters deceive you - Miyazaki creates works of pure art, each one with a beautiful story and depth fans have to come expect of his films. In addition to gorgeous animation and unforgettable stories, Miyazaki, both in interviews and through his movies, has had words of wisdom that are timeless, moving, and inspirational. Get ready to laugh, cry, and see the world differently after reading them.
The Secret (and Incredible!) Ways Your Favorite Disney Pixar Rides Are Made
Forget the Haunted Mansion's Hatbox Ghost or navigating the pitch-black corners of Indiana Jones Adventure, because there is perhaps no place more shrouded in mystery than Walt Disney Imagineering. It's here, in a collection of buildings 35 miles away from Disneyland Park, where every theme park attraction and experience is imagined, crafted, and taken for a virtual test drive before it ultimately hits our Fastpass reservations and Instagram feeds.
The partnership between Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios, however, compounds the creativity and difficulty in the unique challenge of bringing beloved source material, like a full-size Bing Bong and audio-animatronic Luxo Jr. lamp, to life. Twenty years since their first collaboration on It's Tough To Be a Bug! at Disney's Animal Kingdom, nearly every one of Pixar's 19 films appear in Disney parks worldwide, a partnership that will reach new alien macaron-fueled heights when Pixar Fest and Pixar Pier at Disneyland Resort and Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World debut in Spring and Summer 2018. Busy finalizing details for the seven food locations, four attractions, three shops, two lands, and new fireworks show themed to Pixar's cinematic library en route to the parks, Pixar and Disney opened the doors to the hallowed halls of Walt Disney Imagineering, showing us the artistic processes, creative struggles, and the very secret room where it all gets done.
The worlds within Pixar films are so robust and realistic that you can't help but want to jump into them - and it's some people's literal job to make that happen. Pixar employs a 10-person theme park team (dream career alert!) at their headquarters in Emeryville, which taps resources from the studio, bringing in the actual animators, lighting, and effects specialists from movies like Cars and The Incredibles to work on these physical projects as a real-life continuation of what they've created for films. In further collaboration with designers, engineers, and architects at Walt Disney Imagineering, or WDI, the expanded team works together to solve larger-scale difficulties of turning cinematic locations like Gusteau's kitchen or Flo's V8 Café into livable spaces.
Developing Pixar-themed attractions requires that particular combination of balancing pre-established stories with physical developments; if Radiator Springs was tough to create within a movie, just imagine the challenge of replicating every building to scale - and then designing and deciding what's actually behind each door. With a goal of allowing guests to visit places they otherwise cannot go, Pixar and Walt Disney Imagineering's staffs creatively expand upon those universes we see so little of on camera, utilizing a kind of critical thinking that allows guests to know what it's like to ask personal questions in Turtle Talk With Crush, pass through Harryhausen's on Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue! or be pulled along by Tow Mater on Mater's Junkyard Jamboree, while retaining the full essence of the films.
There is perhaps no place more shrouded in mystery than Walt Disney Imagineering.
For Slinky Dog Dash, the forthcoming Toy Story-themed coaster coming to Walt Disney World, Imagineers had to think about small details, like incorporating the character's personality within a ride vehicle, as well as scope, creating a coaster track that provides movement and can be seen from throughout the entire land. To pull these kinds of logistical challenges off, WDI utilizes The Dish, an all-encompassing white room that, with 3D visualization, can solve any real-world problems from sight lines to layout before they actually exist.
By loading in a simulation of Toy Story Land, we were able to visualize what it's like to walk past the Alien Swirling Saucers queue or see details of Woody's Lunch Box up close and, in another digital model, experience The Incredicoaster and its new effects despite it still being under construction. It was nothing short of delightfully disorienting to pass Jack-Jack using his newfound superpowers and "ride" those familiar California Screamin' camelback humps without actually moving. (The multifaceted technology is also used to virtually tour spaces like hotel rooms and restaurant kitchens throughout the resorts.)
Even once projects are on course, the necessary details to make the spaces feel accurate to Pixar's films seem overwhelming to an outsider. To answer the question of how to make grass look large scale for Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland, which is built to feel as though guests are the size of toys, Imagineers had to source 100-foot-tall bamboo from a conservatory in Portugal. Amidst the many oversize toys, checker pieces, and game boards strewn about Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World, they also calculated that Andy's massive footprint, which appears in the walkways, would be a size 240 if drawn to scale.
Though many recent Disney Parks projects see Imagineers tasked with reimagining things that already exist - a new entrance for Toy Story Mania! in Florida or new iterations of the souvenir shops, kiosks, and restaurants coming to Pixar Pier in California, for example - even as a Disney expert, I never quite realized how difficult it can be to pull off. Take Jessie's Critter Carousel, for instance. The Toy Story attraction's creation requires the full development process, whether or not mechanisms from the previous King Triton's Carousel are already in place. Because the adorable bug-eyed animals from Woody's Roundup had never been rendered in 3D, sculptors in the Walt Disney Imagineering model shop have spent weeks upon weeks hand-carving maquettes at 1:8 scale, which will be digitally scanned and later milled for creation of the carousel's seats.
At times, the ride creation process tends to mirror that of Pixar's own films. The Cars Land team revisited the Route 66 road trip Cars' filmmakers took prior to creating the theme park land at Disney California Adventure; Walt Disney Imagineers working on Pixar Pier traveled to seaside towns up and down California's coast to revisit the land's original inspiration. The difficulties in creating Pixar's virtual worlds are lengthy and well-documented - it normally takes five years for a film to be completed - but the timeline is nearly the same projects within the parks; Pixar Pier, in a rare instance, only has a matter of months. Still, the ideas and concepts were well underway before we even heard about them, and the detail-oriented nature of the collaborative team doesn't let much slip past, from the food and beverage development behind the Pixar Parfait to be sold at the Adorable Snowman ice cream kiosk to the Pixar art-themed Knick's Knacks shop, named in honor of the early Pixar short. (Jessie's Critter Carousel has been in the works for up to a year and still won't debut until 2019.)
When the land opens June 23, it'll not only feature franchises like The Incredibles and Inside Out that have not yet hit the parks in a permanent way, but be "ever-changing," so characters from forthcoming films will always have a home in the parks. That way, even if rides and attractions aren't in development with the WDI-Pixar team, there will always be something new and special to see.
11 Hilarious Cat Caves That Look So Comfy, We Wish They Came in Our Size
Spoiling my cat is the total norm these days. In the past, no matter how comfy of a bed I bought, they never seemed to stick until I discovered these comfortable pet caves. These warm and cozy beds feel more like being wrapped in a burrito, so we can see why it's hard to leave. So if you want to treat your feline, we rounded up a list of our favorites. From fish- and mice-inspired picks to a even a teepee, you'll love these hilarious finds.
I Tried Making Poke Cake For the First Time and Here's What Happened
One day, POPSUGAR's Fitness director, Michele Foley, stopped me in the hallway to tell me about poke cake. "Have you ever had it? It's the best. cake. I've. ever. eaten. Cherry Jell-O and yellow cake mix with Cool Whip as the frosting. Total Midwest appeal. It came out light and airy and the Jell-O gave it tartness." Poking a cake and filling it with Jell-O sounded terrible to me and boggled my mind that two seemingly opposite textures could EVER work out together. Nonetheless, if the fitness editor vouched for something so passionately, I couldn't blow it off! I had to conduct a group taste test. Despite my initial bias, I gathered the ingredients anyway and hoped for the best.
I am the biggest fan of yellow box cake, even more than homemade cake, because it's moist and ultra vanilla-y without fail. The experiment started off happily. I whisked the cake mix, melted butter (I used Trader Joe's Cultured Salted Butter, because I was feeling fancy), and eggs together and transferred the batter to a buttered casserole dish. When I pulled the cake out of the oven, the air around me smelled like the '90s and childhood birthdays. I got drunk with nostalgia before my stomach tightened with the realization that I could screw up this perfectly good cake by dumping a whole bunch of Jell-O on top of it.
As the cake cooled by the window, I turned my attention to the next step. At this time, I should probably admit that I didn't go for brand-named Jell-O. I opted for a raspberry-flavored jel dessert, since that's all my closest grocery store carried. I dumped the contents in boiling water, stirred it around, and tasted it, just to see how bad I was about to ruin my cake. Only . . . the naturally flavored jel dessert tasted like raspberry Sweetarts (if that ever were to exist) with no funny aftertaste. I relaxed a little. This experiment might go over well!
I poked the cake a little too excessively on top, because I really wanted to let that jel dessert seep into the cake, even though Kraft recommends 1/2-inch intervals. Unlike Jell-O, which sets in the fridge, this product practically gels up within minutes. Despite my best intentions, as soon as I poured it over the cake, some of it seeped into the holes, but a lot of it set on top of the cake in a thin layer. I panicked, before thinking, "Whatever! I'm just going to ice this sucker anyway and see what happens."
As I cut into the cake and took out the first slice, I did notice how moist the cake turned out. However, as you can see, this particular poke cake doesn't have the stunning fluorescent streaks that make poke cake recipes famous. I was devastated, but only for a second, because I took a bite and became a poke cake believer. First off, unlike most cakes, this one isn't sweet. It's light and refreshing, almost like you are eating clouds. Until, like me, you have two huge slices and need to loosen your belt a notch. There's no odd Jell-O consistency in the cake. All you get is the semisalty vanilla cake combined with the slightly tart raspberry flavor. The whipped topping (found in the freezer section of most groceries) offered more of a textural component than flavor; it's remarkably fluffy.
Every taster at POPSUGAR gave it rave reviews, though there was one complaint and that's the cake doesn't have any textural contrast. If you need a little crunch in your cake, add some sprinkles on top! I may have missed out on the beautiful streaks this round. I'll keep practicing until I get that skill down, because I definitely intend to make this cake again and again. I'm convinced there's no better crowd-pleaser than this "recipe."
Sip on This! There's a Rosé Pool Float on Amazon Perfect For Any Wine-Guzzling Woman
When Summer rolls around, I'm sipping on Rosé like it's my sole purpose in life. That's why I totally flipped when I discovered this brilliant Rosé floatie. Is there a better way to hold a bottle of wine than while sitting on a floatable replica? I think not. It's an ideal purchase for parties, vacations, or just because you love a good drink. Amazon offers a few different versions of this genius pool accessory. Choose the perfect one for you, and then take a thousand photos to post on Instagram and Facebook. Your followers deserve to see this glorious contraption. Summer can't come fast enough. Drink up!
10 Harry Potter Theories You Won't Be Able to Wrap Your Head Around
The last Harry Potter book came out nine years ago, but that hasn't stopped Potterheads from analyzing every aspect of the series. Plenty of theories surfaced in 2016, like Draco Malfoy possibly being a werewolf, a plot twist about what the Deathly Hallows stands for, and heartwarming ideas about Neville Longbottom. Before you reread the series again, check out the favorite theories we read about this year, many of which have been around for ages.
The Best iPhone X Cases of 2018
So, you finally took the plunge and got the iPhone X. Congratulations! Now that you've got the newest, hippest gadget on the market right now, it's time to make sure that you don't find yourself on line at the Apple store a week from now, cradling your newly dropped phone and pleading for a second chance - in other words, it's time to properly protect your device. But before you stress out about going through every case on the internet to find the right one, click ahead: here, we've pulled together a list of the best iPhone X cases out there at the moment. From the chicest fashion statements to the most tough-and-rugged models on the market, there's something here for everyone - and we'll be updating this post as new ones become available, so be sure to check back as the year progresses.
The Best Tech Gadgets of 2018 (So Far)
Looking to make your life a little easier, but not ready to commit to a full smart-home makeover? Well, you've come to the right place: from umbrellas to watches to suitcases and more, ahead you'll find all the tech gadgets we've tried out and fallen in love with this year. And be sure to check back, as we'll be updating with our newest favorites as we continue to test out the latest in consumer tech throughout 2018.
11 Editor-Approved Palettes Every Beauty Junkie Needs - Shop Them Now!
We have a palette problem and we don't want to solve it. There's something so exciting about a convenient little package that's filled with with a variety of products. This Spring, beauty brands are bringing their A game with pretty, seasonal options. It was no easy task, but we rounded up our favorite choices on the market right now. These picks range in price point and purpose, so you're sure to find something ideal for your needs. Whether you like a soft, neutral look or a bold, colorful one, there's a palette for you. Check out our favorite finds and grab one ASAP.
Fenty Replaced a Fan's Stolen Makeup, and Rihanna Is Truly a Fairy Godmother
The following story might sound too good to be true to anyone who has ever wasted an hour waiting on the phone for a customer service rep. But it did indeed happen, so strap in! This tale starts like a tragedy, but hold on for an O. Henry-esque twist of glorious proportions.
It's probably safe to say that a woman named Chiara who has the Twitter handle OnlyIfForRih is a pretty big Rihanna fan. Unfortunately, while traveling through New Zealand, Chiara's possessions were stolen - including all of her Fenty. Once I lost my grandmother's heirloom ring at a Waffle House, and I think I'd rather relive that experience than come home to find my Match Stix snatched.
All my Fenty Beauty as well 😓
- Chiara🌹 (@OnlyIfForRih) March 25, 2018
Luckily, Fenty customer service stepped in to save the day. The team reached out to Chiara and offered to replace her stash.
We're so sorry to hear! We're happy to help you replace those Fenty Beauty goodies ❤️
Send us a DM! https://t.co/d8gym5qPCD- Fenty Beauty (@fentybeauty) March 26, 2018
Since Rihanna released Fenty, she's been considered the fairy godmother of our makeup dreams. And now, she literally is one. It's a modern-day fairy tale!
Now THAT is customer service!
- ReginA phalangE (@pusherlovegurl) March 26, 2018
fenty treats their customers better than most boyfriends do their girlfriends https://t.co/DVwt92QIpX
- so, here's the thing (@femmatcha) March 27, 2018
the chick-fil-a of cosmetics https://t.co/n25v4jyW8T
- love, travis 🦋 (@watchxlearn) March 26, 2018
I promise not to reach out to Rihanna saying my Lip Stunna got stolen when really I just used the whole damn thing. But at least we know she's looking out for all of us.
9 Ways to Rock Hot-Pink Makeup, According to the Quann Sisters
Allow this post to serve two purposes: to inspire you to try the hot-pink makeup trend and to deepen your infatuation with the Quann sisters. If you're not already fangirling over these stylish and stunning twins, allow us to edify you. Cipriana and TK Quann are models, street style stars, and multihyphenates known for their natural hair and cunning style. Cipriana is the editor-in-chief of the lifestyle blog Urban Bush Babes, while her sister, TK Quann, is a singer under the name TK Wonder. And for what it's worth, they are also ridiculously nice.
The Quann sisters are also friends of Dior, so we had a Dior makeup artist stop by our studio to demonstrate all the ways to embrace pink as a makeup color, as modeled by TK and Cipriana. Whether you're leaning toward a hot-pink eye shadow or a bubblegum-pink lip, we've got all your inspiration in the four looks ahead.
We're Not Kidding - These 15 Beauty Products From Nordstrom Are All Less Than $15
There are a number of reasons we love shopping at Nordstrom, from its massive shoe department to its fun Topshop collections, but nothing compares to its incredible beauty selection. The mega retailer carries all your favorite brands, from MAC to Urban Decay and Living Proof. You don't have to spend a fortune on these lush items, either. We searched and unearthed a number of affordable choices. Whether you're looking for a soothing lotion or iridescent nail polish, all of these finds are under $15.
Here's the Best Way to Incorporate Apple Cider Vinegar Into Your Beauty Routine
If you haven't gotten on the apple cider vinegar bandwagon yet, it's long overdue, my friend! Not only is this pantry staple an antiseptic and an astringent, it actually helps decrease inflammation. It's been used to aid with weight loss, ease the unpleasant side effects of sunburns, and reduce bloating.
But did you know that apple cider vinegar is also really good for the skin? When used on the face, it actually helps balance out the pH levels. So using it in a toner makes for an excellent way to implement apple cider vinegar into your daily beauty regimen. Plus, the anti-inflammatory properties contained in apple cider vinegar will help curb your breakouts, so it's a win-win!
Scroll through for our top picks of the best apple cider vinegar toners money can buy.
5 Sexy-Smelling Perfumes That Will Make Your Date Say "Hubba Hubba"
Fragrance can have a powerful effect on our mood and confidence, and it might even leave a lasting impression on your date. While I was looking for the perfect sexy-romantic scents for my next date night, I stumbled upon a post in the Sephora Beauty Insider Community that recommended some scents straight from other beauty addicts.
I tried some of the suggestions and added a few of my own so you can be sure to smell completely alluring to your beau (or just smell good for yourself!).
6 Cult Skincare Products That Are Totally Worth It
Of all the beauty products we're willing to splurge on, skin care is at the top of the list. When our skin looks beautiful, our makeup goes on smoother, our confidence peaks, and we (literally) put our best face forward.
While skincare products can get pretty costly, there are a few that are totally worth the price tag. High-quality ingredients, extensive testing, and, of course, incredible results are all benefits that can come with using the luxury treats.
If you've been wondering if some of the most buzzed-about products are worth the hype, we have your back. Ahead, you'll find the best tried-and-true luxury products on the market, all with great reviews from the Sephora Beauty Insider community.
This Underrated Mascara Made Me Rethink Comb Wands - and Gave Me Dreamy Lashes
First things first: I want it to be known that I am one of those people who has short lashes. I'm not saying it with any sort of humble, ironic humor, either - they are stubby. Outside of lash extensions and lash growth serums, the easiest and most economical solution to my quest for long, luscious lashes is to become a bona-fide mascara hoarder.
If you were to open up my makeup drawer at any given moment, you (and I) would be embarrassed by the obscene amount of mascaras in my collection. I have everything from tubing mascaras to ones that are purple-hued to ones that are dual-ended. Basically: if I've seen it given a thumbs up by my favorite beauty influencers, I've tried it.
This Redditor Tested 2 of the Most Hyped Drugstore Mascaras Out There, and the Winner Is . . .
So when makeup artist to the Bravo stars Priscilla DiStasio (aka @mspriscillanyc) name-checked the Clinique High Lengths Mascara ($18) on an Instagram Live (she said it was her go-to mascara for giving the appearance of false lashes), I hit "checkout" on my Sephora cart faster than I should probably admit. While the plain white tube looks unassuming, this is definitely one of the times when you cannot judge a mascara by its package.
I've never had success using a comb wand before because they've always left too much product on my lashes (and subsequently, my eyelids) instead of defining them. Also, they can just be really awkward to use because it's hard to figure out hand placement. But the pencil-thin comb on the High Lengths mascara is truly a magic wand, and it really works in your favor. It's made of very fine bristles - the kind you have to almost scrunch your eyes to see. The green part of the wand is flexible, so when you hold it to the base of your lashes, you can wiggle it up with a comfortable amount of control. It easily grabs from the root and elongates each strand with every pass, though I suggest wiping some of the excess off the wand before applying to ensure even more precision. The best part of the applicator is that if you tilt it more vertically, it can also reach the inner corner of your eyes.
One coat will make a dramatic difference, but a second coat will add length and volume. And if you really want it to look like you have doe eyes, add a mascara primer as a base layer. Just make sure to curl your lashes before you apply any of the above, because you won't get curl from this product alone.
Once the formula is set, I've noticed my lashes stay soft, don't produce any irritating flakes, and remain dreamy all day. Take a look!
Here's Everything You Need to Know About Waxing and Threading
It feels like there is a new "best" hair removal technique taking top spot each week, but do you know exactly what each entails? Threading and waxing may seem similar because they both remove hair from the root, but they differ in technique, outcome, and pain level. We've called in the help of the hair removal experts at Strip to help clear up any questions you may have about waxing and threading.
Whether you're a devotee of one and don't know much about the other or you're a newbie to both, here's all you need to know about threading and waxing.
What is threading?
Strip says "threading originates from Asia and is an ancient method of removing hair." It is achieved by creating a double thread of thin cotton or polyester thread, and then using it in a twisting action to remove the unwanted hair. This plucks the hair out at the root and is a method used to easily create a specific shape. Threading is often used on the eyebrows due to the precise nature of the shaping required. However, it can be painful. If you have sensitive skin, you may find that it causes irritation.
What is waxing?
Waxing involves applying hot wax to a patch of hair, then either using a strip to remove the wax or leaving the wax to harden before quickly ripping it off. Benefits of waxing include being hair-free for longer periods of time, fewer ingrown hairs, and the fact it can be more gentle on the skin than threading.
What is the difference between threading and waxing?
Waxing is a hair removal method that can be used on all parts of the body. Waxing is far less painful than threading; however, threading (when done correctly) doesn't disrupt the skin around the hairs in the way waxing can, so some find it causes less redness than waxing. However, everyone's skin is different. Threading is also quicker than waxing as the hair is removed so precisely, and there is no wax that has to dry. As threading is so precise and smaller sections are removed at one time, there is less room for error in removing too much hair or changing the shape.
Unlike threading, waxing involves less tugging of the hairs themselves, and for most people it results in less pain. Strip uses a 'shrink wrap' technique that means the wax sticks to the hair and not the skin, which minimizes trauma to the skin and therefore irritation. Strip says many of their clients come in for upper lip waxing on the same day of their event, as they walk out with little to no redness.
So, if you're looking for a quick eyebrow removal and don't mind a bit of pain, threading is the technique for you. But if you're looking for a less painful solution, try waxing instead.
17 Photos That Prove Blond Works on Every Skin Tone
We tend to be so attached to our hair that even the merest cut or trim can spark months of mourning until the lost inches grow back. That's even more true when it comes to color. Despite the popularity of bright hair color trends inspired by everything from Fruity Pebbles to candy floss, the idea of going blond is still a bold move many shy away from. If you're on the fence about adopting the bold color, let your inhibitions go and let the following beauties inspire you to become a bottle blond.
After a Woman Was Fired For Having Purple Hair, Her Dad's Tweet Went Viral
Hey Twitter. This is my eldest daughter, Jess. She's had a fairly rubbish time lately. Her last employer decided her hair colour was stopping her work productivity and fired her. She's desperate to get another job. She's a hard worker and good kid. Area: Brighton RT's appreciated pic.twitter.com/7hFQlNxQwB
- Sir JBizzlington of Brighton (@JBizzleBeard) March 25, 2018
Job hunting can be brutal. Looking for employment while sporting a nontraditional hair color can unfortunately make the pursuit even harder. One woman named Jess who hails from Brighton, England, is going through the struggle right now - but her father's heartwarming tweet of support is currently going viral.
On March 25, Joe Blakeney posted a snapshot of him toasting with his daughter Jess, who currently rocks a gorgeous blue-purple ombré hair color. Blakeney wrote, "Hey Twitter, this is my eldest daughter, Jess. She's had a fairly rubbish time lately. Her last employer decided her hair [color] was stopping her work productivity and fired her." He went on to write that Jess is a "hard worker and good kid," but she hasn't had the easiest time finding another job. As he put it, she's "desperate" for a gig.
The post quickly went viral, with over 13,000 likes and 9,000 retweets. Many commenters shared how they've faced similar challenges during their job searches, and the thread has become a celebration of individuality and rainbow hair.
Blakeney told POPSUGAR that the post was a spontaneous decision made as he watched Jess get ready for an interview. "I had a momentary brain wave that I could possibly do something for her. After all, what kind of parent wouldn't want to help their child out?" He didn't intend for the post to go viral. "I was hoping to get three or four retweets at best, and to ask anyone in the local area for any employment opportunities."
The family's hometown of Brighton is known for its bohemian sensibilities, and Blakeney said that he's never seen Jess face discrimination for her hair color previous to the firing. In fact, "She was hired with the hair [color], and then got fired a year-and-a-half down the line as they had 'changed their mind.'"
The tweet has inspired quite a few interview offers, including one from Lush, which is well-known for its commitment to diversity when it comes to staffing each store.
Hey there! Here's the link to our Brighton store- https://t.co/zMPaAJxcXh She can keep in touch with them regarding vacancies. At Lush we welcome diversity, the brighter the hair the better 😍 Good Luck! -Victoria 🌸
- LUSH UK (@LushLtd) March 26, 2018
As Jess continues her search, she has set up a Go Fund Me that's currently exceeded its goal by almost eight times. Even with this widespread attention, Blakeney insists that "My intentions are still the same now as they were when I composed the original tweet. To help my daughter find a job."
Tyra Banks Gets Refreshingly Honest About Her Nose Job: "We as Women Need to Stop Judging"
You can always count on Tyra Banks to keep it real, and her recent comments about her nose job are no exception. The America's Next Top Model host underwent rhinoplasty years ago, and she's opening up about when and why in an exclusive interview with People. While Tyra fully embraces the cosmetic procedure and supports anyone's decision to do whatever makes them feel good (Yes, girl!), she says the initial reason she went through with it early in her career isn't entirely related to appearance.
"I had bones in my nose that were growing and itching," Tyra tells People. "I could breathe fine, but I added cosmetic surgery. I admit it! Fake hair, and I did my nose. I feel I have a responsibility to tell the truth."
Tyra adds: "Natural beauty is unfair. I get really uncomfortable when women who are these natural beauties judge anybody who does anything to themselves."
Tyra, whose memoir Perfect Is Boring is out in April, says she doesn't judge people's decisions to wear makeup, ditch makeup, or "fix" things they may not feel comfortable with - temporarily or permanently.
"You want a hair weave? Fine. You want permanent eyebrows? Fine. We as women need to stop judging," Tyra preaches in the interview. The queen of smizing shares more in this week's issue of People, on newsstands March 30.
Get Fetish-Worthy Toes With These 9 Foot Masks
Right now, I'd probably rather walk out of my apartment shirtless than wear sandals in public. We've (barely) emerged on the other side of a ruthless Winter, during which I've had no reason to showcase my toes. I took no trips but did indulge on a vacation from any foot maintenance. Because of that, if I slipped on sandals right now, I might be risking arrest for indecent exposure - it's that gross down there.
Luckily, if I've learned anything in this life, it's that when I find myself in times of trouble, sheet masks come to me. Yep, just like you can slap a sheet over your lovely face and hands, there are also a few made specifically for your toesies. And I promise not all of these treatments are as weird as Baby Foot is.
These 10 Makeup Items Will Help Your Perfect Natural-Looking Makeup
As much as we beauty junkies love a strong lip, bold cat eye, and carefully chiseled contour, there's something refreshing about ditching our usual full-coverage foundation for a lighter, no-makeup makeup look. Not only is going a little less bold less of a time commitment, but it's also a refreshing way to get out of a makeup rut.
The keys to perfecting this low-maintenance look are choosing sheer formulas, fresh colors, and making sure your skin looks dewy. When done correctly, you'll look perfectly put together and naturally gorgeous. Thanks to the Sephora Beauty Insider Community, I've found products that help me to perfect my lighter makeup routine, along with some of my own tried-and-true favorites.
Read on to discover the 10 items to add to your makeup bag to get natural-looking, flawless makeup easily.
10 Genuinely Entertaining Science Shows on Netflix
I'm all for a good Netflix binge, but I also know that sometimes there's a deep desire for something more substantial than Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Gilmore Girls. If you strive to be challenged by your viewing material and desperately want to learn while consuming entertainment, you're in luck: Netflix has some of the best informative TV offerings out there. From the deepest depths of the ocean to galaxies far beyond our reach, you can get one hell of an education from the science-based shows available for streaming.
So if you're looking to learn next time you press "play," check out one of these 10 scientific shows. You'll be taught all about the world (and beyond!) without leaving your couch.
Don't Get It Twisted: The Oldest University Was Founded by a Muslim Woman
Muslim women have been transforming society since, well, at least 12 centuries ago. Founded in 859, the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, is the world's oldest operating university - it was also endowed by a devout Muslim woman with her inheritance.
Fatima al-Fihri, who was Tunisian, donated the funds to open a mosque and madrasa (a school which teaches religious texts) in the mid ninth century, but the property was expanded to be a university by the tenth century. Now the stunning campus houses one of the world's oldest libraries, which was recently restored after being kept private for scholarly use for hundreds of years.
According an Associated Press report on the library's restoration, its collection of Islamic historical manuscripts is unparalleled. For example: al-Qarawiyyin's library includes a ninth century Quran written in ancient Kufic calligraphy.
"The manuscripts are now kept in a secure room, with strict temperature and humidity control," reported the AP in 2016 after the renovations were completed.
By 1947, the school was officially integrated into Morocco's public education system, and in 1967, it became the University of al-Karaouine. Though European schools are often credited with being the first universities, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization considers al-Karaouine a university since its original inception as a madrasa - making it the oldest in history.
So, in honor of Muslim women everywhere, let's attempt to make it abundantly clear who founded the first university: a Muslim woman in Morocco.
Ahead are some photos of the campus taken by users on Instagram.
Will Smith Had a Date With Sophia the Robot, and HELP, I Can't Stop Laughing
By now, you've probably heard of Sophia the Robot. She's the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, so much so that she's earned full citizenship in Saudi Arabia and participated in plenty of interviews. And now, she's going on a date . . . with Will Smith. In a hilarious new video, the acclaimed actor sits down with Sophia, and the result is a veritable goldmine of awkward jokes, an attempted kiss that ends in friend-zoning, and too many other hilarious moments to count. There's not much else to say; you really just have to watch the video yourself.
5 Secrets About Best Buy, According to an Employee
Curious about whether you should actually get the warranty at Best Buy? Find out the answer from one Best Buy employee's Reddit AMA. The employee, who works for Best Buy in Canada as a "connected solutions specialist," answered questions about the break room, bargaining, and whether or not to get a warranty on a tech device. See the employee's answers ahead.
People steal all sorts of devices
According to the employee, they can't do anything to stop people from stealing. So he's seen people "walk out with laptops."
The break room has video games.
Forget eating lunch during your break - relax by playing a game instead! The break room in this employee's store, also called a "Hub," has a Wii U in it.
The discount isn't that great.
Unlike other retail chains, Best Buy's discount on laptops and gaming systems isn't great - so don't ask for it. But, if you need cables or other accessories, the discount works in their favor.
The people at the return area don't ignore you on purpose.
If you happen to see a person at the return desk area, they aren't always equipped to help you. According to the employee, sometimes it's employees working with other stores to get a product shipped or checking stock of an item.
If you want a deal on a warranty, just ask.
On a basic level, the employee recommends always getting the warranty. The employee also mentioned that if you want a deal on a warranty, ask for one. "Sometimes we can do half off two-year or three-year [warranty]!" they wrote.
The Handmaid's Tale Shows Us Why We Can't Compromise on Reproductive Rights
Kaylie Hanson Long is the national communications director for NARAL Pro-Choice America
With the TV adaptation of Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, people across the world will get a visceral preview of what happens when a regime defined by misogyny, cynicism, and a distaste for facts rises to power. Atwood's dystopian vision depicts a fictional world in which women are nothing more than childbearing vessels, nothing more than domestic servants, and nothing more than wives whose sole claim to power rests in the hands of their husbands. Women who think, who rebel, who choose - and also women who fail to bear children, who fail to live up to an idea of "womanhood" that has nothing to do with humanity and everything to do with biology - are declared "unwomen."
Sound familiar?
If you're a woman in 2017, you might recognize this world thanks to the rise of politicians who have felt less and less pressure to hide the misogyny driving their attempts to control the most intimate aspects of a woman's life. And this rise has been made possible by none other than President Donald Trump.
The government of The Handmaid's Tale is fueled by a misogynist agenda and systematically enacts policies that rob women of their autonomy. After the leadership's rise to power, the main character of The Handmaid's Tale stops by a convenience store to pick up a pack of cigarettes before work only to learn that her bank account has been shut down. When she arrives at work, she learns that this isn't a fluke: the government has not only frozen every woman's bank account but has also made it illegal for women to hold a job and hold property at all.
"It's only a job," the central character's husband says when she returns home that day. "You know I'll always take care of you." It is clear that he has missed the point.
In our reality, women are already treated like second-class citizens in so many ways: women of color make as little as 58 cents for every dollar their white male counterparts make. Pregnant women lose their jobs because they need an extra bathroom or water break. Republicans in Congress want to drag us back to the days of charging women more for our health care and when being a woman was considered a pre-existing condition. And the onslaught of antichoice legislation in this country has chipped away at our fundamental right to control our bodies and decide whether, when, how, and with whom to start or grow a family.
President Trump's misogynist agenda only promises to pull us backward and erase the progress we have made on the road toward gender equality. He has laid bare the real motive behind the war on reproductive rights waged by antichoice politicians and extremist groups: it has very little to do with abortion and everything to do with keeping women in our place by limiting our options and freedom.
Trump let the cat out of the bag last year when he matter-of-factly claimed "there has to be some form of punishment" for women who choose abortion. Of course the people who cheer him on are the same people who believe that birth control pills and IUDs - the most basic tools women use to control their futures - should be illegal. One even claimed that a world without these forms of contraception would be "ideal." And antichoice state legislators from Wyoming to Missouri make their real feelings about women clear when they compare us to livestock and quip that we should go to zoos to access basic health care.
The examples are endless, and it is clear that the rise of a reality where women do not have basic rights is made possible not only by politicians bent on controlling women, but also by a populace that tells itself, "That can't happen here."
"There were marches, of course," writes the unnamed narrator of The Handmaid's Tale, reflecting on the protest movements women led against the rise of this catastrophic and misogynist theocracy, "but they were smaller than you might have thought."
The good news for us is that our marches have not been small. Across the country and the world, people have made it clear that the majority does not believe in the dystopian worldview peddled by extreme antichoice groups and politicians like President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. Seven in 10 Americans believe abortion should be legal and accessible, and the same number think the Supreme Court should not overturn Roe v. Wade. This majority is fueling the resistance against the dangerous antiwoman, antifamily agenda pushed by President Trump and his Republican allies from Washington to the state legislatures.
Luckily, leaders at every level of government are getting the message, and they understand that Americans will support those who stand strong behind reproductive freedom and gender equality. In states like Nevada and Washington, legislators are leading a proactive resistance by working to make birth control even more accessible. States like Massachusetts, Oregon, and Tennessee are also working on laws that would require insurance providers to cover a broad range of birth control, not just certain types or brands.
It is no surprise that America's appetite for dystopian fiction skyrocketed after President Trump's election. We must look to it not only as a warning of what could be, but also as a guide to how we can push history in the right direction. We must stand up, stand strong, and stand together in support of the fundamental idea that every woman deserves the same opportunity and freedom as men to control her body and her future.
Widow of Pulse Nightclub Shooter Found Not Guilty on All Counts
On March 30, Noor Salman was acquitted by a federal jury of helping her husband, Omar Mateen, carry out the 2016 Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, FL. Salman was found not guilty of aiding and abetting the commission of a terrorist act and obstructing justice, according to The New York Times. Salman had been accused of giving police misleading statements during an interview following the worst terrorist attack on American soil since the Sept. 11 attacks.
"I wish I had done the right thing but my fear held me back. I wish I had been more truthful," she wrote in a statement to the FBI that was read aloud during her trial.
Mateen's deadly spree claimed the lives of 49 people and left 53 injured before he was killed in a shootout with local police. The jury in Salman's case deliberated for over three days before reaching a verdict. "We are so grateful to them, so grateful for their verdict," a spokesperson for Salman's family said outside the courthouse. "She can go home now and try to pick up the pieces."
Salman's defense attorney, Linda Moreno, positioned Salman as a victim of abuse, saying, "Omar Marteen is a monster. Noor Salman is a mother, not a monster. Her only sin is she married a monster."
Assistant United States attorney Sarah C. Sweeney, who was part of the prosecution team, thanked the jurors for their services. "We respect their verdict," she said. The Founder of the onePULSE foundation, Barbara Poma, released a statement echoing Sweeney's statement.
"I respect the criminal justice process, and we all have to trust that the jury made its decision free of bias and emotion. Those of us directly affected by this tragedy must find peace in our hearts and remember that he was the one who pulled the trigger that night. He was the perpetrator, and he should not have one more minute of power over our lives," she stated. "This verdict cannot and will not divide us. The survivors, families, and first responders, as well as the community of Orlando and everyone around the world, must now focus on the work ahead of us. We will always carry the pain of what happened at Pulse, and we will never forget those who were taken. We will wrap our arms around all affected today and in the days to come. It will be difficult, but we will focus now on healing, and we will continue to work to help communities emerge from violence and hate. It is as important today as it was 21 months ago."
You'll Want to Tear Out Your Hair After Trying to Find a Four-Leaf Clover in This Photo
For some people, puzzles are a great way to distract their mind and zone out for a bit. For others like ourselves, they're a great reminder that nothing will drive you crazier than trying to find or solve something that's supposedly easy. Whichever type of person you are, we bring you a puzzle that's making the internet question its sanity.
The quiz, which was originally published on Jan. 4, 2016, shows a cute illustration of a bunch of pigs in a field. The catch? Try to spot the four-leaf clover among all the pigs. Try your best below. To see the answer, just click on the photo.
The illustration was created by Hungarian-based artist Gergely Dudás, or Dudolf, who regularly posts fun puzzles like these on his Facebook page. When Dudolf originally posted this image on his Facebook page, it received more than 9,000 reactions, 1,000 comments, and 4,000 shares. However, a recent Imgur post is bringing attention to this puzzle (and others) again.
Hopefully that didn't drive you too crazy!
11 Slang Terms to Memorize If You Want to Stay Cool
Tumblr, YouTube, and Twitter have been leading the slang game recently. "Snatched" is officially the new "fleek," "sis" is the new "bro," and adding "boots" to the end of any adjective is totally a thing. Read on to learn all the new slang words the cool kids on the Internet are using.
The Great Snapchat Egg Hunt Has Begun - Here's How to Get in on the Fun
Calling all recovering Pokémon Go addicts: boy, has Snapchat got just thing for you this holiday weekend.
From March 30 to April 1 at 9 p.m., over one million (!) fancy decorated eggs will be hiding all across your Snap Map, just waiting to be sought out and captured with a 3D world lens. The more you hunt, the more you collect; but in order to capture the egg and get the point, you have to go to the physical location of the egg on your map. In other words, it's the perfect combination of exploration and old-fashioned competition - there's even a leaderboard to check out exactly how you're ranking among your friends and family (though if you're feeling self-conscious you can also opt to remain hidden, as always.)
To get started, head out into your neighborhood and check the Snap Map for the eggs closest to you. Once you're nearby, tap the egg on your map and open a world lens through the rear-facing camera, and voila! You've just gotten your first point. It's worth noting that while you should definitely keep your eye out for eggs at all times, you never have to worry about losing an egg or having it be stolen by another Snapchat user. Even if you have to wait until tomorrow, they'll still be there - even the supersecret, high-value five-point eggs, which may take a bit longer to find.
So, as you travel this holiday weekend, be sure to keep your phone charged and your Snap Map open - and enjoy the AR-based, limited-run game while it lasts. You can bet that's what we'll be doing.
Rupert Grint Got a Shout-Out in the Half-Blood Prince Novel - and You Probably Missed It
Image Source: Everett Collection
By the time the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince novel was released, the fourth movie (Goblet of Fire) was on the verge of coming out. This meant that Rupert Grint was already an established member of our favorite magical trio as Ron Weasley, loved perhaps most especially for his gratuitous usage of "bloody hell" to express his surprise, fear, excitement, and pretty much any other emotion.
In Half-Blood Prince, the pompous (but arguably endearing) character of Professor Slughorn is introduced, whose talent for choosing gifted students to include among his exclusive ranks rivals his penchant for potions.
So, the fact that Slughorn calls Ron the wrong name isn't all that surprising considering this mistake is made in line with the professor's disregard of students who don't fit his standards of "promising" wizards. Ron (to Slughorn) is forgettable.
What is notable is the small shout-out to actor Grint when Slughorn slips up upon discussing Ron's incident of accidentally drinking poison instead of a tonic for someone who'd ingested the love potion Amortentia. In the 2005 Bloomsbury edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on page 454, J.K. Rowling gives Grint a subtle nod in the novel by having Slughorn call Ron by the name of Rupert on accident. The tiny detail is easy to miss, but the fact that Rowling snuck it in certainly makes us smile. See the passage ahead for the mention of "Rupert" instead of "Ron."
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Hilary White
The Best iPhone X Cases of 2018
So, you finally took the plunge and got the iPhone X. Congratulations! Now that you've got the newest, hippest gadget on the market right now, it's time to make sure that you don't find yourself on line at the Apple store a week from now, cradling your newly dropped phone and pleading for a second chance - in other words, it's time to properly protect your device. But before you stress out about going through every case on the internet to find the right one, click ahead: here, we've pulled together a list of the best iPhone X cases out there at the moment. From the chicest fashion statements to the most tough-and-rugged models on the market, there's something here for everyone - and we'll be updating this post as new ones become available, so be sure to check back as the year progresses.
The Best Tech Gadgets of 2018 (So Far)
Looking to make your life a little easier, but not ready to commit to a full smart-home makeover? Well, you've come to the right place: from umbrellas to watches to suitcases and more, ahead you'll find all the tech gadgets we've tried out and fallen in love with this year. And be sure to check back, as we'll be updating with our newest favorites as we continue to test out the latest in consumer tech throughout 2018.
Sushi Tacos Are a Thing, So Every Other Food Hybrid Can Just Go Home Now
Sushi burgers and burritos are so last year, people. Our latest food hybrid obsession? Sushi tacos. Because why choose between your two favorite cuisines for dinner when you can just have both at the same time, am I right?
We were first informed of these glorious gastronomic masterpieces via Tail and Fin, a sushi fusion eatery in Las Vegas that serves up the Instagram-worthy creations. Each Tail and Fin sushi taco swaps a basic corn tortilla for a circular seaweed shell, followed by a layer of white rice and toppings like salmon, tuna, cilantro, pineapple chunks, onions, and pomegranate seeds. Finished off with a sauce drizzle of your choice, these sushi tacos are sure to get your mouth watering. Our favorite part of these tantalizing treats is their size; they're smaller than sushirritos, so it's suitable to eat two different types in one sitting (or, like, three or four, if we're being honest here).
It looks like tons of other restaurants have are also in on the craze, such as Norigami, a pop-up shop that offers its sushi tacos with a crispy fried nori shell. Yum! Ahead, bask in the sheer perfection of sushi tacos, and try not to drool (or eat your screen) while doing so.
15 Wines From Whole Foods That Will Knock Your Socks Off
Picture this: you're trying to get everything ready for a fabulous party, but you're crunched for time (OK, you don't have to picture this - we have all been here). You stop at Whole Foods to get some party staples and are thinking about all the other stops you have to make and things you have to do when you get home . . . like throw your dirty clothes in a closet and do something with all the dishes that have piled up in the sink.
You're thinking you may have to phone a friend to handle the adult beverages, but you're in luck. At Whole Foods, the wine selection is quite varied, and the grocer actually has a Master Sommelier employed as its global beverage buyer. So, go ahead: pick up a sampling of wines, and impress your gathered friends with the answer when they say, "This wine is delicious. Where did you get it?"
The 16 Cheeses You HAVE to Get From Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's cheese section is a magical place where some of the toughest decision-making happens. If your idea of a good time involves a cheese plate and a glass of wine, you've probably spent time mentally debating which cheese deserves a spot in your shopping cart. We've been there too, so we're featuring our editors' 16 favorite cheeses from Trader Joe's so you know what you absolutely have to pick up the next time you're in the market for a new cheese (and yes, it was hard to narrow it down). See which Trader Joe's cheeses you've already tried and discover potential new favorites, ahead.
Anthropologie Home Items Are Now Available at Nordstrom - Seriously, Shop It Now!
If you're a fan of Anthropologie, you know it's filled with beautiful clothes and lush beauty products, but we can't get enough of its enviable home section. So if you're planning on sprucing up your space this Spring, we have good news for you. The popular decor line is now available at our favorite department store, Nordstrom. From colorful pillows to party platters and vibrant dinnerware, all these luxe items are easier then ever to shop. We rounded up a list of cute and useful pieces you'll want to own. Take a look.
8 Easy Ways to Instantly Boost Your Self-Confidence
Self-doubt weighing you down? Don't worry; we've all been there before and can understand how frustrating those thoughts can be. But the good news is you don't have to continue walking under rain clouds of negativity. Despite contrary belief, self-confidence is a skill set rather than a character trait. And it's one you can easily teach yourself!
So forget the notion that confidence is something people are born with. If you're seeking to boost your self-esteem, below are eight quick actions you can take to become more confident ASAP.
1. Sit up straight.
Once again, Mom was right. According to research, sitting with good posture will not only lead to more confident, positive thoughts, but it will also increase your overall mood. So the next time you find yourself slumping or slouching, remember your mom's advice: roll back those shoulders, open up your chest, and sit up tall.
2. Get caffeinated.
Lover of lattes or all things coffee? Well you're in luck, as caffeine has been proven to increase energy, alertness, and yes, even confidence. So go ahead; guzzle down that extra cup of joe.
3. Break a sweat.
We all know exercising is good for your physical well-being, but did you know working out on a regular basis can work wonders on your mental health, too? Studies have shown breaking even the slightest of sweats can lead to more confidence, not to mention less stress.
4. Spritz on your favorite fragrance.
Need another excuse to splurge on your favorite fragrance? Fragrance expert and founder of Note Fragrances Danielle Fleming states that aromas play a huge part in how you feel and can instantly elicit a range of emotions, including feeling more relaxed, happy, and confident.
5. Visualize greatness.
If you're in a time crunch but need a quick confidence-booster, consider simply closing your eyes and calling upon your imagination. Prep your mind for mental success by picturing yourself conquering a personal goal. Remember the power of visualization: seeing is believing. The more you visualize achievement, the more you'll come to expect success, and this mindset can only lead to greater feelings of self-assurance.
6. Jam out.
Not only can listening to upbeat music instantly uplift your mood, but turning up the tunes can also make you feel more powerful. And who doesn't love a good jam session?
7. Wear a smile.
Don't hide those pearly whites from the world any longer. Instead, showcase them for all to see by wearing a smile. In doing so, you will appear both confident and composed, and trust me, people will take notice. But don't just think smiling only has external effects. Research shows smiling can shed internal signs of stress, making you feel happier and more relaxed.
8. Be your own cheerleader.
And finally, don't forget to cheer yourself on. Talk to yourself. Think positive thoughts. Utilize the power of self-affirmations and focus on the good. What makes you you? Look yourself in the mirror and tell that person you see how awesome YOU are. Post sticky notes around your home to remind yourself, too, because the more often you practice self-kindness, the faster you will believe it!
This Harry Potter-Inspired Bar Lets You Make Your Own (Boozy) Potions
Listen up, wannabe witches and wizards. We know you've got spells and magic hidden up your enormous sleeves, and the good news is, we've found the perfect place for you to visit on your next European vacation: the Cauldron. Based in London, this pub is the perfect place to unwind after a day of secret spell casting and wizarding around the UK - and while it isn't affiliated with the Harry Potter franchise, it's easy to see where it got its inspiration from.
Combining science, booze, and fantasy books, this bar creates an interactive and immersive experience that would make any Muggle believe in magic. When you arrive, you'll get to don a special cloak (assuming you don't have your own, of course) and sit down to enjoy your welcome drink. The Cauldron has even teamed up with London's Fourpure Brewing Co. to create a limited edition brew, which was inspired by a witch or wizard's most essential tool: the magic wand. Called Four Cauldrons, it has a base of wand wood (in this case oak), and a core of coriander, ginger, and vanilla, which are of course all very important in magical history.
Once you've polished off your welcome drink, you'll be led to the cauldron area where you'll get to make your own brews. Some will change color as you mix them, others will bubble and smoke. You'll get to try a few cocktails, and your potions will undoubtedly cause giggling and silliness, and perhaps some sleepiness the next day. But don't fret - the effects of your potent potions can easily be reversed with an extra helping of fried food and fizzy drinks.
So where is this magical place? The Cauldron is at 5d Stoke Newington Rd, just five minutes walk (or a 30-second broomstick ride) from Dalston Kingsland overground station. Tickets are around $42, and they include a welcome drink and two cocktails. Your experience should last around two hours, and you'll need to pay a deposit for the wand, too - you wouldn't want some sneaky wizards to try and make off with them, after all! So grab your Trace-less friends (sorry, no underage magic allowed) and get ready for some fun!