Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 6 janvier 2017
10 Funny Lessons I've Learned as a Parent
I've learned lots of things since becoming a parent, but there are some lessons that are more amusing than others. Of course, many of these experiences are also funnier after-the-fact, and they tend to be lessons that I've learned the hard way at least once. Many of these experiences have left me exclaiming, "I'll never let that happen again!"
Here are a few of my favorites. If they haven't happened to you yet, do this the easy way and learn from my mistakes:
- Always, and I mean always, check the kids' pockets before doing a load of wash. Otherwise you may find a red crayon, pack of bubble gum, or toad (that really happened) in the wash . . . or worse yet, the dryer.
- Always use extreme caution when approaching a random, stray raisin. Sure, it could be a small dried fruit, but it's also dangerously similar in size, color, and sometimes consistency of something that might fall out of a child's diaper. The latter is not something you want to squish between your fingers unexpectedly.
- Murphy's law of traveling with kids states that if you should forget a spare outfit, or God forbid, an entire diaper bag while traveling with a small child, someone will inevitably spill a cup of juice on themselves, fall in a puddle of mud, pee in their pants, or worse. The farther you are from home without the necessary spare items will increase the likelihood that you will need them as well as the severity of the clothing mishap.
- I used to be a very organized and meticulous person, and then I had three kids in a four-year span. I spent so much time picking up toys and constantly telling my kids to pick up their toys that it was driving me crazy. After a while, I decided there would be no toys at certain times of day. We all cleaned up before nap time and right before bedtime. Now I've learned to just deal with the blocks, Hot Wheels, and crayons all other times of day (and any unexpected houseguests will have to do the same).
- Thankfully, being married gave me practice for the next one: you pick and choose your battles. I find this particularly true with raising a toddler. For example, I find it much easier to simply allow my daughter to leave the house wearing pj's, an Easter hat, feather boa, and rain boots to drop her brother off at school than to have her cry and yell about wearing something I've chosen. I reserve my arguments for more pressing, daily matters like why we don't flush Mommy's keys or wash our hands in the toilet.
- The absolute best way to get your child's attention is to sit down somewhere and look comfortable.
- The saying "boys will be boys" often rings true at my house when I'm pretending to eat the mud pies made especially for me, or when I'm wrangling live bugs that were captured outdoors and released inside. However, sometimes little girls will be like the boys, too. My daughter, having two older brothers, loves playing dress-up and dollies, but she also loves getting dirty with dump trucks and dinosaurs. A stranger in a store told her she must be a princess. She growled and exclaimed, "I no princess! I a pirate! Arrrrg!" . . . and that's just fine with me.
- Being crafty usually requires double the time it takes to do the actual craft, in cleanup. Finger paints are awesome, but depending on the child, rarely end up just on the paper. I'm usually scrubbing walls, floors, and hair by the time the kids' masterpieces are complete. Since the messier the activity, the more fun the kids seem to have, and the longer it may keep them occupied, some people might ask is it really worth it? You bet your Mom jeans it is.
- Dirt happens even when there's no dirt to be seen. Putting a child in white clothing will magnify this effect. Choose darker-color clothing, or invest in a good stain-fighting detergent because it's going to happen. I once put a 1-year-old boy and a 3-year-old boy in white pants for Easter. They had dirt, grass, and some weird orange stain before we made it to breakfast. White apparel attracts juice, sauce, mud, and more. It's simple physics.
- School pictures, family-portrait sessions, or anything where I have to pay for a photograph usually results in a child giving him- or herself a last-minute haircut, falling down and scraping up their face, or a bug bite with swelling/allergic reactions. If I have to plan for or pay for a photo, someone is going to look their worst. I'm currently trying to decide if I should buy a bubble to keep them in for the week leading up to holiday pictures or just let what's bound to happen, happen and just try to explain to them why all their childhood pictures look the way they do when they're older.
What about you? What lessons have you learned the hard way? Anything that you've been through and can laugh at now (but still won't make the same mistake again)? Leave a comment below and let me know!
Award-winning blogger Susan McLean can be found writing about her daily adventures in motherhood over at Divine Secrets of a Domestic Diva.
Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Have Been Laid to Rest, Together
Carrie Fisher and her mother, the legendary actress Debbie Reynolds, were laid to rest together at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in LA on Friday. The mother-daughter duo, who heartbreakingly passed away within a day of each other last month, were celebrated by famous friends and family members including Carrie's brother, Todd Fisher, and daughter, Billie Lourd; Billie's Scream Queens costars Lea Michele, Emma Roberts, and Abigail Breslin, as well as her boyfriend Taylor Lautner, were all in attendance. While Carrie was recently cremated - her brother Todd was spotting carrying a urn shaped like a Prozac capsule - the 60-year-old Star Wars icon's ashes were buried in a coffin next to Debbie's.
Billie spoke out for the first time about the loss of her mother and grandmother earlier in the week, writing, "Receiving all of your prayers and kind words over the past week has given me strength during a time I thought strength could not exist." On Thursday, a private memorial was held at Debbie and Carrie's family compound in Beverly Hills. Meryl Streep (who played Carrie in the film adaptation of her book Postcards From the Edge) reportedly sang Carrie's favorite song, "Happy Days Are Here Again" for the late actress. The burial ceremony comes just a day before a documentary about the two women, titled Bright Lights, airs on HBO.
The 1 Trend You Won't See on the Red Carpet in 2017
The red carpet is half the show at the Golden Globes, so naturally we spend a lot of time thinking about who's wearing what, wondering which trends will sweep award season, and whose dresses we'll remember long after the night is over. The anticipation is killer, so we enlisted an expert to help calm our nerves and get some answers ahead of the big show. Enter Tracy Taylor, senior style editor at NET-A-PORTER. Here, we picked Tracy's brain on the labels we can expect to see - more Gucci? Dior? - and the one red carpet trend you won't be seeing in 2017. Read on for the breakdown.
You Could Predict What J Lo Will Wear to the Golden Globes by Looking at These Photos
When you think of the Golden Globes, classic princessy gowns and fancy tuxedos probably come to mind, but when it's time for Jennifer Lopez to find a dress for the award show, she thinks, "Let's experiment."
Through the years, the singer, actress, and producer has treated this red carpet as her own personal runway, wearing unexpected and risky gowns that show lots of skin, feature crazy trains, and even come in colors we don't normally spot during award season. In fact, from the look of J Lo's past dress choices at the Golden Globes, you can only deduce one thing: if she shows up at the 2017 ceremony on Sunday, Jan. 8, she'll be wearing a curve-hugging, low-cut (or -back) dress that looks good from every angle. Scroll ahead to check out her previous choices.
5 Healthy Reasons to Eat Dark Chocolate
There's no need to nix chocolate from your diet for good. When satisfying a sweet tooth, choosing dark chocolate can be a good decision for your health. In fact, here are five healthy reasons to eat dark chocolate.
- It helps you exercise longer: A study found that eating a tiny amount of dark chocolate before a workout helps fight fatigue, which means you can go that much further during your workout. The amount that worked in the study was tiny - just half a square - but if it's good quality chocolate, a small square will go a long way.
- It's stress relieving: And not just when you're PMSing. A study found that when highly stressed participants ate an ounce and a half of dark chocolate (the equivalent of a Hershey's bar) a day for two weeks, the level of stress hormones in their bodies dropped significantly. While eating a candy bar a day can contribute to a whole new set of stresses if you're watching your weight, it's nice to know that dark chocolate has a measurable effect on stress levels.
- It's heart-healthy: A study found that dark chocolate increases blood flow, which helps keep your ticker in top shape. Those who ate a small amount of chocolate a day had increased blood flow due to more-dilated blood vessels as well as better heart function.
- It's good when you're sick: If you can't get the rest you need because of a nagging cough, try dark chocolate. The theobromine, an ingredient in dark chocolate, has been proven to suppress a cough, but just be careful - if you're trying to go to sleep, remember that a dark chocolate Hershey's bar has 30 milligrams of caffeine, which is the equivalent to a cup of tea.
- It lowers blood pressure: Increasing blood flow also helps your heart in another way. A study found that eating a small square of dark chocolate a day helps regulate your blood pressure by increasing blood flow as well as dilating blood vessels and releasing nitric oxide. If you're managing your blood pressure levels, a daily, small dose of dark chocolate may help.
This Nonverbal Boy and His Deaf Boxer Have a Bond Beyond Words
When Brandi Guillet adopted her son at birth, she knew he had a genetic disorder that would affect his communication skills as he grew. Now 6 years old, her son cannot communicate verbally but is able to use some sign language and gestures instead - both of which have helped him form a remarkable bond with the family's sweet 3-year-old deaf Boxer named Ellie.
In a Facebook post to the group Deaf Dogs Rock, Brandi opened up about her son's furry companion. She said, "She is amazing with my son. She is the most gentle, loving girl ever."
In an interview with CBS, Brandi explained that the family began fostering Ellie through the Coastal Boxer Rescue in Florida just a week before Christmas. Brandi said they were drawn to Ellie after learning she only responds to sign language. "To think that Connor can sign to her and actually communicate with her made my heart melt," she said.
Given her son's love for Ellie, Brandi now plans on adopting her! She said, "The most BEAUTIFUL part of this adoption is my son and his dog can actually talk to each other!" She added, "She is such a perfect addition to our family."
5 Healthy Reasons to Eat Dark Chocolate
There's no need to nix chocolate from your diet for good. When satisfying a sweet tooth, choosing dark chocolate can be a good decision for your health. In fact, here are five healthy reasons to eat dark chocolate.
- It helps you exercise longer: A study found that eating a tiny amount of dark chocolate before a workout helps fight fatigue, which means you can go that much further during your workout. The amount that worked in the study was tiny - just half a square - but if it's good quality chocolate, a small square will go a long way.
- It's stress relieving: And not just when you're PMSing. A study found that when highly stressed participants ate an ounce and a half of dark chocolate (the equivalent of a Hershey's bar) a day for two weeks, the level of stress hormones in their bodies dropped significantly. While eating a candy bar a day can contribute to a whole new set of stresses if you're watching your weight, it's nice to know that dark chocolate has a measurable effect on stress levels.
- It's heart-healthy: A study found that dark chocolate increases blood flow, which helps keep your ticker in top shape. Those who ate a small amount of chocolate a day had increased blood flow due to more-dilated blood vessels as well as better heart function.
- It's good when you're sick: If you can't get the rest you need because of a nagging cough, try dark chocolate. The theobromine, an ingredient in dark chocolate, has been proven to suppress a cough, but just be careful - if you're trying to go to sleep, remember that a dark chocolate Hershey's bar has 30 milligrams of caffeine, which is the equivalent to a cup of tea.
- It lowers blood pressure: Increasing blood flow also helps your heart in another way. A study found that eating a small square of dark chocolate a day helps regulate your blood pressure by increasing blood flow as well as dilating blood vessels and releasing nitric oxide. If you're managing your blood pressure levels, a daily, small dose of dark chocolate may help.
10 Pieces You Should Always Buy Multiples of
There's no telling how many times we've regretted not buying multiples of an item that we end up loving and wearing 24/7. It's basically our worst shopping nightmare next to hearing, "sorry, it's sold out." If you find yourself going back and forth between buying that top in black or gray, just get it in both colors. Because chances are, weeks later, when you're getting dressed in the morning you'll think back to how your outfit would look so much better if you had that [insert color] option too.
That's why we've decided to come up with a definitive list of pieces you should always stock up on once you find the one. To prevent future heartaches, read ahead to see the items you need multiples of, from a wearable white tee to the tiny, cute midi ring.
Cindy Crawford's 2017 Beauty Resolutions Are So Easy, You'll Steal Them For Yourself
Even Cindy Crawford needs to be reminded to practice some serious self-care. Like many of us, the supermodel aims to slow down and take up healthier habits in 2017. She shared her new year's resolutions on Instagram and beauty lovers took note. If it's good enough for Cindy Crawford, these beauty tips are definitely good enough for us.
Read on to see some of the ways the bombshell plans to switch her routine up this year, then check out these tips straight from the model herself.
The Rejuvenating Treatment Celebs Are Finally Opening Up About
Recently my skin was looking a little worse for wear and in need of some serious maintenance. Not only did it look dull and tired but I was growing impatient with my enlarged pores because I couldn't seem to find a product that effectively worked to shrink them. The most bothersome thing I wanted to address were the tiny little lines I noticed creeping up on my forehead despite being just 28 years old.
Sometimes I feel like no matter how many products I use or facials I try, the complexion I see staring back at me in the mirror just isn't as vibrant or youthful as the one I want to see. To find out the easiest most effective way to turn my skin around, I reached out to RealSelf Contributor Dr. Michele Green. I wasn't surprised when the doctor immediately recommended a laser treatment, specifically Fraxel, because its versatility allows it to address all kinds of skin concerns.
Plus, according to a few of my sources i.e. dermatologists and plastic surgeons, intensive laser treatments has been one of the best-kept beauty secrets in Hollywood. Until recently, celebrities have typically opted to keep the more invasive procedures they undergo to prep for a role under wraps, but now it seems many stars have become more comfortable sharing their go-to beauty treatments. Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and Chelsea Handler are all said to be fans. Thanks to them, lasers have now become more visible and buzzworthy.
If you're curious about whether or not lasers can give you a celebrity-grade complexion, you've come to the right place. Here's a guide to everything you need to know about the formerly taboo topic including my first-hand account of what it's like
Cher Will Star in a Lifetime Movie About the Flint Water Crisis
- Cher is set to play the matriarch of a Flint family - Vulture
- The latest on the Thor vs. Hulk rumors - HuffPost Entertainment
- Bebe Rexha's desert music video will leave you parched - MTV News
- 4 commercials marketed to an audience that doesn't exist - Cracked
- What was the worst episode of 2016? - BuddyTV
- Archer is set to move to FXX for season 8 - Splitsider
- A Harry Potter bucket list mere Muggles couldn't complete - POPSUGAR Tech
This Blogger Refuses to Give Up Her Style Just Because She's Pregnant
Ever since blogger and stylist Pernille Tesibaek announced her pregnancy with an adorable Boomerang, she's done everything to accentuate her growing bump, not hide it. Cozy oversize sweaters that cover the elastic waistband on her jeans? Not for Pernille.
Instead, Pernille started off her pregnancy at Fashion Week, where she paraded around in tight, printed pencil skirts and embraced the added puff in her bomber coat or the noticeable cling of her silk cami.
There's a lot of fun in maternity dressing, and Pernille's constructed plenty of outfits to highlight that. Read on for a few of the tips we've gleaned from her latest looks, all of which are packed with just as much - if not more - style as before. Whether or not you're expecting, we can all benefit from a lesson in flattering different body shapes and sizes.
These Handsome Pictures of Kurt Russell Will Send You Overboard
Kurt Russell is what you would call a timeless heartthrob. Sure, the actor is well-known for movies like Overboard, but he's been making audiences swoon ever since he was a young teen. Aside from his impressive career, the 65-year-old has an equally epic Hollywood romance with Goldie Hawn. They began dating in 1983, share four children - Kate and Oliver Hudson and Boston and Wyatt Russell - and have become a golden example of a modern blended family. We guess you could say Kurt's the perfect package. See some of his best moments over the years.
8 Reasons Your Child Could Benefit From Being a Bookworm
I remember asking my mom what "t-h-e" spells. I was sitting on one of those plastic benches/toy chests that every '90s kid had and I screamed her name with such power and urgency that I can now, as an adult, only imagine it sounded like I was getting kidnapped (or worse) in the next room. That's how anything that has to do with reading has always been for me - urgent.
From wedging myself in-between adult conversations to get someone to read to me to carrying a book under my arm everywhere I went - literally everywhere; my poor parents had to entertain each other for most of my childhood because I was always lost in a book - I have grown up with a love of books and stories. But one thing I've learned throughout the years is that you can get so much more out of a book than just stories.
Being an avid reader and constantly feeling the need to bury my head in a new book has given me a surplus of skills and benefits that have affected every part of my life, and I'm a true believer that if our kids' idea of reading is through Facebook statuses, Instagram captions, and 140-character tweets, they're going to be in big trouble.
Read through for eight ways growing up a bookworm affected my life for the better, which are benefits your kids can also get in on if they're encouraged to be readers early on.
- I learned new words constantly as a kid (and still do), and developed language at an advanced rate. Because I read so often, I was constantly looking up or asking my parents what new words meant. It then became like a game to use my new words as a party trick of sorts both in school and around friends. When my friends were forming three-word sentences, I was speaking in paragraphs (and still do).
- I have the memory of an elephant. Reading books with a lot of characters and storylines puts pressure on the reader to recall events and names, something that for me, as a reader, definitely carried over into everyday life. I'm amazing at remembering birthdays, middle names, and tons of other useless - and not useless - pieces of information.
- I can tune out pretty much any type of noise or distraction. If you aren't completely focused on the story you're reading, you'll miss details that could be important, which makes comprehension and recall more difficult as you read. When you read a lot, you have no choice but to adapt to your surroundings and focus on the story alone, even if that means blocking out noises from kid toys or loud TV shows. Being able to concentrate on a book translates to being tuned-in to real-life moments with loved ones, in the classroom, at work, and more.
- I still have an active imagination as an adult. Most adults begin to lose the ability to creatively use their imagination in the same way kids are able to, but reading helps to keep things vivid. When you're faced with hundreds of white pages with black text and no photos to be found, it's up to you as the reader to connect the words on the page to a world in your head based on the descriptions given to you. This allowed me to be creative throughout school and to think out of the box now as a working adult.
- No matter how stressed I get, I know that reading can help me calm down and refocus my attention. In the same way that I can tune out noise easily, I can avoid dwelling on stress and frustration by putting my mind elsewhere - into a story. Even if I can't sit down to read a book at the height of my stress, I do my best to think about other things and push my worries aside when I need to keep myself focused on something else. Being able to call upon a sense of calm and tranquility even in the most demanding of times is a quality in myself that I truly value and am grateful for.
- I have always loved - and been good at - writing. Reading is basically the way a writer can "practice" writing. When you read stories constantly, you begin to pick up on the elements of different authors' writing styles that you like or which resonate with you for one reason or another. The more reading you do, the easier it becomes to jot down well-written sentences that provide information and tell a story. And going back to having a wide vocabulary, being a human thesaurus makes writing a hell of a lot less boring.
- I learn something new on every page of every book. OK, maybe not every single page, but I definitely gain a lot of knowledge with every book I read. Sometimes I learn little things, like the state fish of Hawaii (humuhumunukunukuapua'a), but sometimes I gain knowledge about something on a larger scale, like life during World War II, or about something that directly affects my life, like my career. In order to keep growing, you can't ever stop learning, so even when your school years are far behind you, you can ensure that you learn something new every day through reading.
- I have a hobby I can turn to literally anywhere I go. Whether I have a physical book in my hand, or am reading an e-book or article online, I have reading material no matter where I go - on an airplane, in a car, waiting in a doctor's office, or when the power is out during a storm and everyone else in the modern world freaks out because their television is unusable. Words are everywhere and reading is a hobby that is possible 24/7 (also, if you utilize your local library, it's free!).
No matter how old your child is, it's never too late to encourage them to be a bookworm - and I promise, they will thank you for the encouragement later.
Check out some of these posts to get them started:
- These Are the 32 Books From Your Childhood That Your Kids Should Have
- 26 Young Adult Novels That Your Teenager - and You - Should Read Right Now
- These Are the 30 Books From 2015 That Should Be in Your Child's Bookcase
- These Will Be the 31 Chapter Books That Turn Your Little Reader Into a Bona Fide Bookworm
- Read All About It! Our 50 All-Time Favorite Children's Books
What to Wear on Your Birthday, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Your birthday is one day where you can look and feel your sexiest and not be embarrassed that the attention's on you. Clearly, when all eyes are looking in your direction, you want to look cute! Depending on where you host the party, whether it's at home or at a restaurant, you'll likely have a range of dress options in mind.
Just in case you don't, however, we have a little suggestion: let your zodiac sign determine what to wear on your big day. After all, it's helped us in other areas, like wedding dress shopping and finding the perfect lingerie. Scroll on to see what you should be wearing on your birthday and have your credit card on hand to shop once the stars speak to you.
Here's a Map With WiFi Passwords For Airports All Around the World
Anyone who goes on a vacation or travels for work knows that sitting around in an airport can feel like years. Some airports charge for WiFi, and in others it works so slowly. Never worry about that again with this map and app that has the WiFi passwords for airports all over the world.
Created by Anil Polat, a self-proclaimed "digital nomad" and writer who runs foXnoMad, a travel blog, the map has WiFi passwords to airports, and includes instructions on how to access it. In some cases, the map also includes how long the free WiFi lasts. It's updated regularly and Polat encourages readers of his blog to submit any new information or WiFi spots they find. If you don't want to bookmark the page where this map exists, download the app, WiFox, in three forms: iOS, Android, or Amazon. You can check out the map below.
Keep this map handy for the next time you're on a long layover or get stuck in an airport; you won't regret it one bit.
Relive the Obamas' Last Year in Office . . . and Try Not to Cry
The first family's last year has been full of fun traditions, sweet moments, and of course, plenty of dad jokes.
All About Trump's Baffling Feud With Arnold Schwarzenegger Over The Apprentice
Image Source: Getty / Jessica Kourkounis
On Friday, Donald Trump picked one of his most perplexing fights yet. In a pair of tweets, our president-elect called out his Celebrity Apprentice successor Arnold Schwarzenegger. While Trump seemed intent on picking over the less-than-stellar ratings and throwing shade at Hillary Clinton (again), it was Schwarzenegger's response that may have completely unraveled any punch the tweets may have packed. Trump's tweets have been under particularly harsh scrutiny lately, which should not be alarming considering he's been sounding off with praise for Vladimir Putin, evident distaste for Alec Baldwin's SNL portrayal, and plenty of self-congratulating. For now, though, let's not digress. Here's how things went between Trump and Schwarzenegger.
Trump's Tweets
The newest iteration of the series aired Monday night, but it wasn't until Friday that Trump officially weighed in with his thoughts. What started out as a ratings comparison quickly devolved into another dig at Hillary Clinton. The overall intention, it would seem, was to insult Schwarzenegger.
Wow, the ratings are in and Arnold Schwarzenegger got "swamped" (or destroyed) by comparison to the ratings machine, DJT. So much for....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2017
being a movie star-and that was season 1 compared to season 14. Now compare him to my season 1. But who cares, he supported Kasich & Hillary
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2017
Schwarzenegger's Response
Image Source: Getty / AFP
In response to the tweets, Schwarzenegger turned the focus to where it should be: on the people and America. After he deflected the insults, he also followed up with a profound quote from Abraham Lincoln, which he first posted the day after the election.
There's nothing more important than the people's work, @realDonaldTrump. https://t.co/fYtAfFPMKF
- Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) January 6, 2017
I wish you the best of luck and I hope you'll work for ALL of the American people as aggressively as you worked for your ratings.
- Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) January 6, 2017
Please study this quote from Lincoln's inaugural, @realDonaldTrump. It inspired me every day I was Governor, and I hope it inspires you. http://pic.twitter.com/QRoOFTZfQ9
- Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) January 6, 2017
How high are the chances of a response from Trump? Pretty high, we'd say.
I Gave Up These 6 Things to Be Truly Healthy For Life
The following post was originally featured on Fit Bottomed Girls and written by Alison, a contributor to Jenn, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Fitness.
Losing 70 pounds is tough. Keeping it off for more than a decade is even tougher. Trust me, I tried everything. Once I lost the weight, I thought I'd feel relieved and proud all the time, but what I didn't expect were the feelings of panic and fear.
I was constantly afraid that I'd end up back where I started and keeping the weight off became an obsession. When I overindulged or wasn't able to work out, my first thought was that I was going to gain the weight back. It was exhausting and nerve-racking.
But somehow I've managed to keep it off and eventually found a way to do it that's effective, effortless and doesn't mean living in fear. Here's what I've learned about what it takes.
1. Workouts that I dread.
I used to assign value to workouts purely on the number of calories that they burn so I stuck to brutal, high-intensity workouts that sorta made me miserable and ultimately got me injured and left me feeling burned out. Then, it occurred to me that I'm more than just muscle and fat. So I started only doing workouts that felt good in my body and contributed to the overall well-being of my body, mind and spirit. Now, I actually look forward to my workouts, which means I've got no problem getting them in regularly.
2. Eliminating entire categories of food.
Legit food sensitivities and allergies aside, cutting out a whole classification of food is not sustainable, making it a one-way ticket to Frustration City. Our bodies were designed to take in quality fats, protein and carbs (in moderation of course) and each plays a vital role in proper bodily function. Now, over time, I've learned that there are certain foods that don't make me feel the greatest - for example, gummy candies cause my skin to break out, cereal makes me gassy and fried foods make me sluggish - but will an order of fries, a few celebratory cocktails or a birthday cupcake (or two) derail my inner peace and send me into a downward spiral of self-loathing and guilt? Absolutely not. I don't give food that much power over me anymore.
3. Thinking in terms of calories.
Calories get far too much attention considering that they only tell a small part of the story. So many other things have a direct effect on your body weight and overall health and well-being - for example, hydration, sleep and stress levels all affect how well your body's internal processes work, including digestion and metabolism. When we focus on calories, we learn that low-calorie means better … but it doesn't. Many of the most nutritious foods on the planet are calorie dense and many very low-calorie foods have little or no nutritional value. Remember that food is fuel, so quality and nutrition definitely matter.
4. Punishing myself for "slipping up."
Workouts aren't punishment and deprivation is cruel. Think of it this way: if your child or pet screwed up, is it okay to run them into the ground or withhold a meal from them? No. So why, oh why, it is okay for us to do it to ourselves?
5. Ignoring the need for recovery.
I used to wear my perpetual muscle soreness like a badge of honor and told myself that I had to work out every day in order to "earn" my calories for that day. Honestly, I wish I could get back all that time I wasted - it didn't make me stronger, leaner or happier. Our bodies can self-heal, but only if we give them the time to do so. Pushing yourself to the limit every day may seem bad-ass, but it's robbing your body of the chance to rebuild, adapt and grow stronger.
6. Choosing my workouts based on what I want to look like.
My current workout routine reflects how I want my body to function so that I can do all the things that make my life fun and enjoyable - like teaching yoga, running ultra marathons, playing with my 3-year-old niece and carrying all my groceries in one shot. Here's the thing: I've been a size 18 and I've been a size 0 - and everything in between - and it didn't change how I felt about myself. Losing 70 pounds didn't make me any less self-conscious about my body. You know what did make a difference? Learning what my body is capable of and developing my strengths. The shape and size of my body don't define me or affect my overall quality of life.
Have you successfully maintained weight-loss long term? Tell us what you've learned. -Alison
I Gave Up These 6 Things to Be Truly Healthy For Life
The following post was originally featured on Fit Bottomed Girls and written by Alison, a contributor to Jenn, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Fitness.
Losing 70 pounds is tough. Keeping it off for more than a decade is even tougher. Trust me, I tried everything. Once I lost the weight, I thought I'd feel relieved and proud all the time, but what I didn't expect were the feelings of panic and fear.
I was constantly afraid that I'd end up back where I started and keeping the weight off became an obsession. When I overindulged or wasn't able to work out, my first thought was that I was going to gain the weight back. It was exhausting and nerve-racking.
But somehow I've managed to keep it off and eventually found a way to do it that's effective, effortless and doesn't mean living in fear. Here's what I've learned about what it takes.
1. Workouts that I dread.
I used to assign value to workouts purely on the number of calories that they burn so I stuck to brutal, high-intensity workouts that sorta made me miserable and ultimately got me injured and left me feeling burned out. Then, it occurred to me that I'm more than just muscle and fat. So I started only doing workouts that felt good in my body and contributed to the overall well-being of my body, mind and spirit. Now, I actually look forward to my workouts, which means I've got no problem getting them in regularly.
2. Eliminating entire categories of food.
Legit food sensitivities and allergies aside, cutting out a whole classification of food is not sustainable, making it a one-way ticket to Frustration City. Our bodies were designed to take in quality fats, protein and carbs (in moderation of course) and each plays a vital role in proper bodily function. Now, over time, I've learned that there are certain foods that don't make me feel the greatest - for example, gummy candies cause my skin to break out, cereal makes me gassy and fried foods make me sluggish - but will an order of fries, a few celebratory cocktails or a birthday cupcake (or two) derail my inner peace and send me into a downward spiral of self-loathing and guilt? Absolutely not. I don't give food that much power over me anymore.
3. Thinking in terms of calories.
Calories get far too much attention considering that they only tell a small part of the story. So many other things have a direct effect on your body weight and overall health and well-being - for example, hydration, sleep and stress levels all affect how well your body's internal processes work, including digestion and metabolism. When we focus on calories, we learn that low-calorie means better … but it doesn't. Many of the most nutritious foods on the planet are calorie dense and many very low-calorie foods have little or no nutritional value. Remember that food is fuel, so quality and nutrition definitely matter.
4. Punishing myself for "slipping up."
Workouts aren't punishment and deprivation is cruel. Think of it this way: if your child or pet screwed up, is it okay to run them into the ground or withhold a meal from them? No. So why, oh why, it is okay for us to do it to ourselves?
5. Ignoring the need for recovery.
I used to wear my perpetual muscle soreness like a badge of honor and told myself that I had to work out every day in order to "earn" my calories for that day. Honestly, I wish I could get back all that time I wasted - it didn't make me stronger, leaner or happier. Our bodies can self-heal, but only if we give them the time to do so. Pushing yourself to the limit every day may seem bad-ass, but it's robbing your body of the chance to rebuild, adapt and grow stronger.
6. Choosing my workouts based on what I want to look like.
My current workout routine reflects how I want my body to function so that I can do all the things that make my life fun and enjoyable - like teaching yoga, running ultra marathons, playing with my 3-year-old niece and carrying all my groceries in one shot. Here's the thing: I've been a size 18 and I've been a size 0 - and everything in between - and it didn't change how I felt about myself. Losing 70 pounds didn't make me any less self-conscious about my body. You know what did make a difference? Learning what my body is capable of and developing my strengths. The shape and size of my body don't define me or affect my overall quality of life.
Have you successfully maintained weight-loss long term? Tell us what you've learned. -Alison
8 Grocery Store Policies You Should Be Taking Advantage Of
Grocery shopping on a budget isn't always fun, but these store policies make it easier. Did you know that your favorite stores like Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and Costco have company-wide rules that will help you save money? Before you head out for your next grocery shopping spree, read ahead for eight of the best store policies you can (and should) take advantage of, from return policies to coupon-filled apps.
3 Amazing Ways You Can Re-Parent Yourself
Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is what you do about it. Our friends at YourTango share their story.
It's not too late.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to grow up in a household that helps children learn from their mistakes. Even if your parents were kind and caring, some parents put unbelievable pressure on their kids to be perfect. That means that when you made a mistake as a child, you were often reprimanded or made to feel like a failure.
This can impact a person for the rest of their lives and cause them to feel angry. But there is hope; things don't have to be this way forever. Here's how you can learn from your mistakes and basically re-parent yourself.
1. Compassionate accountability
In my office, I've heard from clients stories of broken phones, punched walls, and even bent steering wheels. All in the name of anger. At themselves. For making a mistake.
What You Didn't Get
When a parent sits down with a child who has behaved badly, used poor judgment, or made a mistake, and says, "Let's figure out what happened," that parent is teaching her (or his) child Compassionate Accountability.
But many parents don't know that it's their job to teach their child how to process a mistake, how to sift through what happened and sort out what part of it belongs to circumstances, and what part belongs to the child. What can we learn from this? What should you do differently next time?
There is a balance between all of these factors which must be understood. The parent holds the child accountable, but also helps him (or her) understand himself and have compassion for himself and his mistake.
What To Give Yourself
If your parents were too hard or too easy on you for mistakes, or failed to notice them at all, it's not too late for you now. You can learn Compassionate Accountability today. Follow these steps when you make a mistake.
- Remind yourself that you are human, and humans are not perfect. Everyone makes mistakes.
- Think through the situation. What went wrong? Are there things you should have known, or realized, or thought about? Those are the parts that you own. Those are where you'll find the lessons for you to take away from this. Take note of what you can learn and etch it into your memory. This can be the growth that results from your error.
- Have compassion for your humanness: Your age, your stress level, and the many factors that contributed to this mistake.
- Vow that next time you'll use your new knowledge to do better. Then put this behind you.
2. Self-discipline
We are not born with the ability to manage our impulses. Self-discipline is not something that you should expect yourself to have automatically. Self-discipline is learned. In childhood.
What You Didn't Get
When parents have rules and enforce them firmly and with love, they are naturally teaching their children how to do this for themselves. Do your homework before you go out to play. Fill the dishwasher, even though you don't want to. You are not allowed to have a second dessert. Balanced, fair requirements enforced with care by your parents teach you how, years later, to do this for yourself.
What To Give Yourself
If you struggle with self-discipline more than most other people, it does not mean that you are weak-willed or less strong than others. It only means that you didn't get to learn some important things in childhood. Never fear, you can learn them now. Follow these steps.
- Stop blaming yourself for your struggles with self-discipline. When you accuse yourself of being weak or deficient, you make it harder to get a foothold on making yourself do things you don't want to do, and on stopping yourself from doing things that you shouldn't do.
- Stop going in the opposite direction. If you are too hard on yourself at times, chances are high that you also, at other times, go too far in the opposite direction. Do you sometimes let yourself off the hook when you don't follow your own rules? This, too, is damaging.
- Use the Compassionate Accountability skills you are building by applying them each time you fall down on self-discipline.
3. Learn to love the real you
We all learn to love ourselves in childhood; that is, when things go well. When we feel our parents' love for us, it becomes our own love for ourselves, and we carry that forward through adulthood.
What You Didn't Get
We tend to assume that if our parents loved us, that's enough. But it isn't necessarily, at all. There are many different ways for a parent to love a child. There's the universal type of parental love: "Of course, I love you. You're my child." Then there's real, substantive, meaningful parental love. This is the love of a parent who really watches the child, really sees and knows the child, and really loves the person for who he or she truly, deeply is.
What To Give Yourself
Most people receive at least some of the first type of love. Far fewer receive the second type. Do you feel that your parents truly know the real you? Do they love you for who you are? Do you love yourself this way? Truly and deeply? If you sense something is missing in your love for yourself, it may be because you didn't receive enough genuine, deeply felt love from your parents. But it's not too late for you to get it. You can give it to yourself.
- Accept that it's not your fault that your parents couldn't love you in the way you needed.
- Start paying more attention to yourself. Who are you? What do you love and hate, like and dislike, care about, feel, think? These are the aspects of you that make you who you are.
- Pay special attention to what's good about you. Make a list and keep adding to it. Are you a loyal friend? A hard worker? Dependable? Caring? Honest? Write down everything that occurs to you, even if it's very small. Re-read the list often. Take these qualities in and own them. They are you.
More from our friends at YourTango:
- 20 Inspirational Quotes Every Strong Woman Needs To Hear (And Memorize!)
- How To Totally MASTER The Art Of Being Happy (In 6 Steps Or Less)
- How To Send Sexy Selfies Worth Bragging About (No Matter What Your Body Type Is!)
- 7 Reasons Moms Who Swear Are The BEST Effing Moms
- 10 Parenting Mistakes You're Probably Making (And How To Fix Them!)
Pink and Carey Hart Have One of the Best Celebrity Proposal Stories, Hands Down
Image Source: Getty / Jeffrey Mayer
Pink and Carey Hart's relationship hasn't always been easy (even though their bumps in the road have inspired some pretty dope songs), but the way they went from "dating" to "engaged" is a story for the books - and a nice reminder that sometimes, women should just take things into their own hands.
Image Source: Kinney Jones
In 2005, four years after they began dating, Pink pulled the ultimate badass move. While assisting on the track during Carey's race at the Pro 250 class finals in Mammoth, CA, the singer stepped out in front as Carey entered his third lap holding up a pit board that read, "Will You Marry Me?" When Carey failed to pull over, she added "Serious!" to it. As you can imagine, Carey finally hopped off of his bike and said "yes." The couple got married six months later in Costa Rica and have been making sweet (and sometimes salty) music together ever since.
6 Bags Every Woman Should Own
Even the most bag-crazy among us have to admit it: there's a limit to just how many we need. Unless you're lucky enough to rule over major closet square footage, space is an issue, and stripping down to what you really need will feel refreshing (while helping to avoid an overly stuffed closet). We've spent time considering a full year, including work, social, and travel obligations, and have settled on the only six styles you'll ever need.
For more style essentials, check out our guides on coats every woman should own and dresses every woman should own, and what a 30-something's closet needs to have.
Naomi Campbell Reveals She Was Horrifically Attacked in Paris in 2012
Naomi Campbell appeared on The Wendy Williams Show on Thursday, where she revealed a heartbreaking secret that she's kept for more than four years. After talking to the host about her friendship with Kim Kardashian, the stunning supermodel said that they've bonded in recent months after Kim's scary robbery in Paris back in October. Naomi revealed that she herself suffered a similar attack in Paris in 2012 but never spoke about it in public until now. Naomi explained that after landing in Paris for a short trip with no security detail, she got into a car that seemed suspicious because the driver kept all the windows down despite the cold November temperatures. "They followed me from the airport," she said. "They attacked me, they opened my car door and said, 'Naomi Campbell, we're gonna kill you.'" She went on to say that the driver was in on the attack, but she quickly decided to fight back. Listen to the harrowing story above.
The Real Murder That Inspired the Menendez Brothers to Kill Their Parents
Truth and Lies: The Menendez Brothers - American Sons, American Murderers aired on Thursday, and even if you were familiar with the case, you still may have been surprised by some of the more grisly details. One of the strangest things about the case, in which Erik and Lyle Menendez brutally murdered their parents, is that the crime was inspired by a TV miniseries . . . which was inspired by a real murder case. The film is called Billionaire Boys Club, and it stars Judd Nelson as a rich LA playboy who runs a Ponzi scheme. It begins as a "get rich quick" scam, but eventually the crimes become more serious, and the need for cash leads to murder. Here's a poorly recorded video of the trailer:
It sounds like a ridiculous story, but the movie is based on a real organization. The Billionaire Boys Club was founded in the '80s by Joseph Henry Gamsky, aka Joe Hunt. He would recruit the sons of millionaires to fund his "investment group," which was really just a Ponzi scheme. In 1984, Hunt and his bodyguard, Jim Pittman, murdered Ron Levin, a freelance journalist who had played a prank that resulted in Hunt not getting a large sum of money that he thought he was entitled to. "Hunt had said the two handcuffed Levin and laid him face down on his bed," details a Los Angeles Times article from 1986. "Pittman then shot him in the back of the head with a silenced handgun. The body was allegedly disposed of in a deserted canyon."
Shortly after the first murder, Hunt and Pittman traveled to Northern California with club members Ben Dosti and Reza Eslaminia and killed Hedayat Eslaminia, Reza's father. The man was a wealthy government official from Iran, and had resources that Reza wanted to inherit, and Hunt wanted to use for the club. The gang originally planned to torture Eslaminia until he turned over all his money, but instead they accidentally smothered him to death in the trunk of a car.
The highly publicized case was adapted into the 1987 miniseries, which the Menendez brothers watched before killing their parents. A witness even testified in court that they "hatched their plot to kill" because they were so inspired by the story.
Coincidentally, a big-screen remake of the miniseries is scheduled for a 2017 release. Ansel Elgort is playing Joe Hunt, Kevin Spacey is playing murdered journalist Ron Levin, and Taron Egerton, Emma Roberts, and Billie Lourd are all costarring.
Proof You Don't Need to Be a Runner to Participate in a 10K
Zumba, Pilates, and cardio kickboxing are just a few of my fitness favorites. I even live for Bodyweb with TRX or Bosu Bootcamp at my local Crunch. And over the years, I've survived many Core Fusion classes. But running? It's never been my speed.
I've always admired the dedicated runners at Prospect Park in my Brooklyn neighborhood with their earbuds intact, wearing the cutest gear. They never seem to be struggling or breaking a sweat at any point during their run. It appears to come easy to them. I, on the other hand, am of the power walking set.
Imagine the mixed emotions I felt when I agreed to walk the 10K portion of the 16th annual Reggae Marathon as a guest of the Jamaica Tourist Board. I was elated to explore Jamaica for the very first time (reggae is one of my favorite genres of music, after all), but there was an undeniable sense of anxiety about not being an avid runner. I felt like an impostor. Just the thought of walking while other participants zoomed past me on the course made me feel defeated. Regardless, I tried my best to ignore my reservations and learned a few lessons about how to achieve a fitness goal.
Confidence Is Everything
Challenges are part of life - even when it comes to fitness. Building the stamina to endure the 10K walk in the Reggae Marathon was far from easy for me. I found it within myself to stay motivated to cross the finish line and took comfort in knowing I've overcome an endless number of challenges in the past. This one was no different. I certainly didn't approach the start line at 5:15 a.m. to fail. The energy from participants who were cheering each other on before the race, smiling with excitement, and snapping photos to document their experience made the event that much more special.
But I'd be lying if I didn't acknowledge a few mental games I had to play to maintain momentum on the course. "You can do it, Monique" and "you're nearly there" were just a few affirmations I rehearsed in my mind to keep moving.
Embrace Your Purpose
Participating in the Reggae Marathon was my way of supporting the event's mission: to showcase long-distance running as a sport in Jamaica, help advance the tourism industry and the country's education system, and indulge in the country's culture filled with great food and music. These were more than enough reasons to sport my bib number proudly.
Be Open-Minded
It pays to let go of expectations when you encounter a new adventure. It was my very first time in Jamaica and I'd never participated in a race. I had no idea what to expect. While I felt like an impostor walking, I came to terms with my reality and ended up connecting with a group of women from Black Girls RUN!, which encourages African-American women in their quest to stay healthy and fit. A few of these women would come to be my walking partners and support system. Along the course, we shared our passion for travel, baking, and shopping abroad, which made the time pass quickly.
Remember to Have Fun
What's more fun than working out on a beautiful island? It's a win all around. The Reggae Marathon, which was parallel to the popular Seven-Mile Beach, was the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fun. The route, which was pretty flat, featured a mix of small bands and stereos that played reggae to motivate marathoners along the way. Every point felt like winning the marathon in my book. It gave me the extra boost I needed to walk to the next mile.
Along with the Reggae Marathon, I was able to indulge in the full Jamaican experience during my time in both Negril and Montego Bay. I enjoyed yoga with an ocean view, rafting at Martha Brae River, authentic Jamaican food at Murphy's and Scotchie's, and a few nights of dancing into the early morning hours with the most down-to-earth group of journalists, who also traveled to Jamaica for the very first time. The amount of gut-wrenching laughs we shared together is truly priceless.
Celebrate Your Achievement
There was one instance where I slowed down a bit (the 3 a.m. wake-up call started to hit me), but one of my walking partners from Black Girls RUN! was right by my side to give me the extra push I needed to keep going. Despite my body's need for rest, I kept pushing until I spotted the sign for the 10K turn. I was finally at the halfway mark and it felt akin to winning the lottery (not that I've ever won more than a few dollars from scratch-offs). I finally made it to the finish line after nearly two hours of power walking (my time was 1:51:32 to be exact). I couldn't have been happier.
I celebrated with a few other journalists who came along for the trip, who finished after about an hour of running, by enjoying the vendors and entertainment in Long Bay Beach Park. We drank fresh coconut water, enjoyed jerk chicken, and relaxed on the beach, recapping the day and our accomplishments. It was an amazing experience.
If the opportunity arises next year, I'd love to return to the Reggae Marathon - but, hopefully, this time as a runner. People from all walks of life and ages came together that day for just a few hours, but the memories and lessons I learned during my trip will last a lifetime.
Proof You Don't Need to Be a Runner to Participate in a 10K
Zumba, Pilates, and cardio kickboxing are just a few of my fitness favorites. I even live for Bodyweb with TRX or Bosu Bootcamp at my local Crunch. And over the years, I've survived many Core Fusion classes. But running? It's never been my speed.
I've always admired the dedicated runners at Prospect Park in my Brooklyn neighborhood with their earbuds intact, wearing the cutest gear. They never seem to be struggling or breaking a sweat at any point during their run. It appears to come easy to them. I, on the other hand, am of the power walking set.
Imagine the mixed emotions I felt when I agreed to walk the 10K portion of the 16th annual Reggae Marathon as a guest of the Jamaica Tourist Board. I was elated to explore Jamaica for the very first time (reggae is one of my favorite genres of music, after all), but there was an undeniable sense of anxiety about not being an avid runner. I felt like an impostor. Just the thought of walking while other participants zoomed past me on the course made me feel defeated. Regardless, I tried my best to ignore my reservations and learned a few lessons about how to achieve a fitness goal.
Confidence Is Everything
Challenges are part of life - even when it comes to fitness. Building the stamina to endure the 10K walk in the Reggae Marathon was far from easy for me. I found it within myself to stay motivated to cross the finish line and took comfort in knowing I've overcome an endless number of challenges in the past. This one was no different. I certainly didn't approach the start line at 5:15 a.m. to fail. The energy from participants who were cheering each other on before the race, smiling with excitement, and snapping photos to document their experience made the event that much more special.
But I'd be lying if I didn't acknowledge a few mental games I had to play to maintain momentum on the course. "You can do it, Monique" and "you're nearly there" were just a few affirmations I rehearsed in my mind to keep moving.
Embrace Your Purpose
Participating in the Reggae Marathon was my way of supporting the event's mission: to showcase long-distance running as a sport in Jamaica, help advance the tourism industry and the country's education system, and indulge in the country's culture filled with great food and music. These were more than enough reasons to sport my bib number proudly.
Be Open-Minded
It pays to let go of expectations when you encounter a new adventure. It was my very first time in Jamaica and I'd never participated in a race. I had no idea what to expect. While I felt like an impostor walking, I came to terms with my reality and ended up connecting with a group of women from Black Girls RUN!, which encourages African-American women in their quest to stay healthy and fit. A few of these women would come to be my walking partners and support system. Along the course, we shared our passion for travel, baking, and shopping abroad, which made the time pass quickly.
Remember to Have Fun
What's more fun than working out on a beautiful island? It's a win all around. The Reggae Marathon, which was parallel to the popular Seven-Mile Beach, was the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fun. The route, which was pretty flat, featured a mix of small bands and stereos that played reggae to motivate marathoners along the way. Every point felt like winning the marathon in my book. It gave me the extra boost I needed to walk to the next mile.
Along with the Reggae Marathon, I was able to indulge in the full Jamaican experience during my time in both Negril and Montego Bay. I enjoyed yoga with an ocean view, rafting at Martha Brae River, authentic Jamaican food at Murphy's and Scotchie's, and a few nights of dancing into the early morning hours with the most down-to-earth group of journalists, who also traveled to Jamaica for the very first time. The amount of gut-wrenching laughs we shared together is truly priceless.
Celebrate Your Achievement
There was one instance where I slowed down a bit (the 3 a.m. wake-up call started to hit me), but one of my walking partners from Black Girls RUN! was right by my side to give me the extra push I needed to keep going. Despite my body's need for rest, I kept pushing until I spotted the sign for the 10K turn. I was finally at the halfway mark and it felt akin to winning the lottery (not that I've ever won more than a few dollars from scratch-offs). I finally made it to the finish line after nearly two hours of power walking (my time was 1:51:32 to be exact). I couldn't have been happier.
I celebrated with a few other journalists who came along for the trip, who finished after about an hour of running, by enjoying the vendors and entertainment in Long Bay Beach Park. We drank fresh coconut water, enjoyed jerk chicken, and relaxed on the beach, recapping the day and our accomplishments. It was an amazing experience.
If the opportunity arises next year, I'd love to return to the Reggae Marathon - but, hopefully, this time as a runner. People from all walks of life and ages came together that day for just a few hours, but the memories and lessons I learned during my trip will last a lifetime.
Queen Letizia's Cobalt Blue Gown Looks Simple - Until You Look at It From the Side
Queen Letizia of Spain has set the bar pretty high when it comes to her fashion choices in 2017. The royal made her first official appearance of the year at the Pascua Militar ceremony at the Royal Palace in Madrid in a long-sleeved cobalt blue crewneck dress from (who else?) Spanish designer Felipe Varela.
At first glance, and looking at her straight on, the queen's dress might look simple, made of denim-like fabric with dainty gold details around the waist. It's all about the sides, though, which featured beautiful floral embroidery from shoulder to hem that made the gown special.
Letizia paired the stunning dress with a matching clutch and Magrit pumps, keeping her hair up in a loose ballerina bun and allowing the dress to be the center of attention. Keep reading to see more photos of the gown and to see how dapper her husband King Felipe VI looked, too.
20 Jaw-Dropping Painted Bump Ideas That Will Make You Want to Get Pregnant in 2017
Many moms get creative when it comes to commemorating their growing baby bumps. From photo shoots to paper mache casts, the internet is filled with clever ideas but some turn out more frame-worthy than others. One way to add an artistic and personal touch is by breaking out the paint and letting a talented friend use your baby belly as a blank canvas. From playing with depth to drawing inspiration from sonograms or meaningful landscapes, you can add a modern or sentimental touch to your bump depending on the brush stroke. Bump painting isn't just for Halloween and these 20 stunning ideas prove just how pretty this trend can be.
33 Outrageous Golden Globes Looks No One Will Ever Stop Talking About
The Golden Globes red carpet draws out a lineup of glamorous gowns each year, but you can expect some outrageous, "OMG" looks too. Whether it was a celeb who chose to wear a sparkly suit or go totally sheer, there's always a few stars willing to break all the fashion rules. They're the ladies who had us texting our friends, "Did you see her dress?!" and it's precisely why we'll always remember their red carpet outfits.
In case you need a refresher on which celebs wore what to the Golden Globes over the years, we've compiled 33 of the most memorable looks to ever hit the red carpet. See the boldest looks in history, then check out the 2017 Golden Globes nominations to get an idea of who will be on the red carpet this Sunday, Jan. 8. We're counting down!
Kim Kardashian Breaks Down in Tears While Talking About Her Paris Robbery For the First Time
Although Kim Kardashian escaped her terrifying robbery at gun point during Paris Fashion Week in October physically unscathed, thoughts about the nightmarish incident continue to haunt her. In a promo for an upcoming episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians - the filming of which was placed "on hold indefinitely" in the wake of her robbery - the 36-year-old mom is shown breaking her silence on what happened to her for the first time. "They're going to shoot me in the back," she tells sisters Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian about the robbery while holding back tears. "There's no way out. It makes me so upset to think about it."
The brief clip also shows how Kim reacted to hearing that husband Kanye West was being hospitalized for sleep deprivation and exhaustion in November. "Don't scare me, please. What's going on?" Kim says over the phone, before telling someone, "I think he really needs me, and I have to get home." Amid all of the dramatic ups and downs that the Kardashian family has gone through over the last few months, the video also shows how they never stopped being there for one another. "We're so close," Kim says in a voiceover. "We feel each others' pain."
Healthy Dinner Meal Prep Ideas to Save Time on Busy Evenings
In the past, your dinner situation has not been the healthiest, with a mix of high-calorie take-out, pizza delivery, and not-so-glamorous bowls of cereal. But you're ready to make a change and do more nutritious home-cooked meals. Awesome! To stick with it, planning and prepping ahead of time is essential. Once you figure out what recipes you'll be making throughout the week, use these tips to ensure those healthy dinners are easier to make so they 100 percent happen.
The Top 5 Ways to Stick to Your New Year's Resolution, According to a Trainer
We're getting closer to the new year and that means many of you are going to set some life-changing resolutions! Of course, one of the most popular promises this time of year is that in a mere few days or hours, you will be well on your way to a committed plan to lose weight, get fit, and be in your best shape ever. We get it. Maybe you want to lose some weight or simply want to set a new personal record in your next half marathon.
Regardless of your fitness level or what you're hoping for in 2017, resolutions can be difficult to live up to. Most people give up on their routines within only two weeks of making their resolution. Those who make it past the two-week mark, usually end up throwing in the towel by June, or even before.
So how will you stick to your resolution this year? Do you have a plan of action? If not, don't worry! We got you covered with these five ways to win in 2017!
1. Write Down Your Reason
Is it for your health, your family, or even to fit into those cute jeans you wore a few years ago? Whatever that reason may be, it should be your motivation to keep going.
Post a list or photo on your fridge of the reasons you are starting this new resolution, the more you see it, the more it will inspire you. According to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, posting a picture of yourself now could be all the motivation you need: "Take a picture of yourself now and make sure to go back and look at it when you need an extra push to make it to the gym."
2. Set Some Goals
Whether you're in it to lose weight, build muscle, or to ready yourself for a marathon, you need to set a goal and write it down today. Before you write down wanting to be about to outswim Michael Phelps, make sure your goal is actually attainable. You don't want to set goals like "Run 10 miles by Friday" or "Lose 40 pounds this month" because those goals are not realistic. They're big and threatening when you look at them as a whole.
A better thing to do is to break it up into smaller goals such as "Drop one pound this week" or "Hold my plank for 20 seconds longer." When you break down your goals like this, you're less likely to become overwhelmed and discouraged due to lack of results.
3. Get A Workout Buddy
Grab yourself a friend and make a commitment to each other to go work out on set days. According to Neff, "When you make a workout date with a friend, you are less likely to break it and more likely to push yourself even harder then if you were doing it alone."
Find someone positive, someone you feel comfortable with, and above all, someone you can tolerate a few times per week. Also, don't try to partner up with your fittest friend. You should find someone of a similar fitness level that wants the same results that is as committed (or more so) as you are so you aren't prone to quitting because you can't match your super-fit friend.
4. Mark Your Progress With a Picture
Pictures are amazing when it comes to motivation. Neff suggests that you take a full-length picture of yourself at every angle and, after a couple of weeks, take more pictures and compare the set. "If you've been faithful to your routine, you'll be surprised what a difference just 14 days can make and this will surely keep you going! if that doesn't get you past January, nothing will!"
5. Reward Yourself
After you've met one of your short-term goals, give yourself a reward. We're not talking about chocolate cake here! Your reward should be something that highlights your recent efforts! Lost a few pounds? Splurge on some new jeans! Feeling stronger than ever? Order a set of shiny chrome dumbbells off Amazon! Rewards are something to look forward to and something to work toward, so they can also help you keep the motivation going.
Once you get going with your routine and start seeing and feeling the positive effects, you're going to do great. Don't give up, don't give in, and try to find something that you enjoy doing and build your efforts around that.
Healthy Dinner Meal Prep Ideas to Save Time on Busy Evenings
In the past, your dinner situation has not been the healthiest, with a mix of high-calorie take-out, pizza delivery, and not-so-glamorous bowls of cereal. But you're ready to make a change and do more nutritious home-cooked meals. Awesome! To stick with it, planning and prepping ahead of time is essential. Once you figure out what recipes you'll be making throughout the week, use these tips to ensure those healthy dinners are easier to make so they 100 percent happen.
The Top 5 Ways to Stick to Your New Year's Resolution, According to a Trainer
We're getting closer to the new year and that means many of you are going to set some life-changing resolutions! Of course, one of the most popular promises this time of year is that in a mere few days or hours, you will be well on your way to a committed plan to lose weight, get fit, and be in your best shape ever. We get it. Maybe you want to lose some weight or simply want to set a new personal record in your next half marathon.
Regardless of your fitness level or what you're hoping for in 2017, resolutions can be difficult to live up to. Most people give up on their routines within only two weeks of making their resolution. Those who make it past the two-week mark, usually end up throwing in the towel by June, or even before.
So how will you stick to your resolution this year? Do you have a plan of action? If not, don't worry! We got you covered with these five ways to win in 2017!
1. Write Down Your Reason
Is it for your health, your family, or even to fit into those cute jeans you wore a few years ago? Whatever that reason may be, it should be your motivation to keep going.
Post a list or photo on your fridge of the reasons you are starting this new resolution, the more you see it, the more it will inspire you. According to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, posting a picture of yourself now could be all the motivation you need: "Take a picture of yourself now and make sure to go back and look at it when you need an extra push to make it to the gym."
2. Set Some Goals
Whether you're in it to lose weight, build muscle, or to ready yourself for a marathon, you need to set a goal and write it down today. Before you write down wanting to be about to outswim Michael Phelps, make sure your goal is actually attainable. You don't want to set goals like "Run 10 miles by Friday" or "Lose 40 pounds this month" because those goals are not realistic. They're big and threatening when you look at them as a whole.
A better thing to do is to break it up into smaller goals such as "Drop one pound this week" or "Hold my plank for 20 seconds longer." When you break down your goals like this, you're less likely to become overwhelmed and discouraged due to lack of results.
3. Get A Workout Buddy
Grab yourself a friend and make a commitment to each other to go work out on set days. According to Neff, "When you make a workout date with a friend, you are less likely to break it and more likely to push yourself even harder then if you were doing it alone."
Find someone positive, someone you feel comfortable with, and above all, someone you can tolerate a few times per week. Also, don't try to partner up with your fittest friend. You should find someone of a similar fitness level that wants the same results that is as committed (or more so) as you are so you aren't prone to quitting because you can't match your super-fit friend.
4. Mark Your Progress With a Picture
Pictures are amazing when it comes to motivation. Neff suggests that you take a full-length picture of yourself at every angle and, after a couple of weeks, take more pictures and compare the set. "If you've been faithful to your routine, you'll be surprised what a difference just 14 days can make and this will surely keep you going! if that doesn't get you past January, nothing will!"
5. Reward Yourself
After you've met one of your short-term goals, give yourself a reward. We're not talking about chocolate cake here! Your reward should be something that highlights your recent efforts! Lost a few pounds? Splurge on some new jeans! Feeling stronger than ever? Order a set of shiny chrome dumbbells off Amazon! Rewards are something to look forward to and something to work toward, so they can also help you keep the motivation going.
Once you get going with your routine and start seeing and feeling the positive effects, you're going to do great. Don't give up, don't give in, and try to find something that you enjoy doing and build your efforts around that.
7 Times Kourtney Kardashian Drank While There Was Drama Going On Around Her
Kourtney Kardashian is nothing if not nonconfrontational: in addition to her dry, sarcastic humor, Kourtney also possesses an uncanny ability to avoid any bit of drama going on around her with one simple trick: drinking. She may not be pounding a beer or housing a glass of wine, but she makes sure to keep her mouth busy by sipping on something so that she doesn't inadvertently get involved in whatever argument or pile-on is happening with her family members - and it's both hilarious and inspiring. Here are seven times Kourtney sipped her tea and stayed out of it.
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