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 10 février 2017
25 Songs From Grey's Anatomy Guaranteed to Make You Sob Uncontrollably
The life of a Grey's Anatomy fan is not an easy one. We suffer death after painful death, breakups, plane crashes, rogue gunmen, and overall misery. Although few things can make up for this emotional torture, there's one thing about Grey's that never fails to deliver: the music. There's a reason the show's soundtrack won a Grammy, people! Since every heartbreaking moment is accompanied by the most perfect song, we've rounded up all of the tunes that gave us the most feels (on top of feels, on top of even more feels). Check 'em out!
13 Delicious Excuses to Eat More Queso Fresco
It's hard for us to trust anyone who doesn't like cheese and even harder to take someone who doesn't like queso fresco seriously. Call us crazy, but the salty taste of the Latin-American cheese is just too good to ever skip - who has that kind of will power?
So, because we can never find enough excuses to eat the delicious ingredient, we've rounded up 13 main dishes, dips, and snacks that taste better with a generous amount of queso mixed in or sprinkled on top. Scroll ahead for the scrumptious recipes, then check out a few strawberry cocktail ideas to sip with them.
Andy Roddick Sets His Allegiances Aside to Predict This Year's Westminster Winner
Image Source: JOHANNES EISELE/AFP/Getty Images
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is just days away from taking place in New York City. Hundreds of dogs will be competing for the ultimate prize of best in show, but which breed will win is anybody's guess. If you think you know who might win, you can try your hand at filling out a winners bracket through Purina Pro Plan, and if you get all the group winners and best in show correct, you could walk away with $1 million.
In case you aren't sure where to start with your picks, dog-lover Andy Roddick is here to guide your choices. "I'm going with the Poodles to win it all," he said, even though he has two adorable English Bulldogs at home. He said he set aside his emotions for his own dogs to pick a breed based on its history at Westminster.
"I think Poodles have won, like, six times or something?" he said, and he was close with that guess. Standard Poodles have won best in show four times, Miniature Poodles three times, and Toy Poodles twice. Andy is going with the Miniature Poodle, though, which is in the same group - nonsporting - as his beloved Bulldogs.
To be honest, I was surprised he didn't pick the Bulldog to take the whole thing, especially after the excellent showing by the breed last year and considering how many people pick winners based on their love of a breed. For my bracket, I picked the Boxer to win its group because of my beloved Boxer at home, and after maybe, slightly badgering Andy about his picks, he waffled a little over his choices and said I rattled his confidence. However, he said he's sticking to his guns because he has faith in the Poodle. "As long as my pick beats your pick, we're good," he told me while laughing.
Check out Andy's bracket below for inspiration on your own, and complete yours at Purina Pro Plan's site. If you're lucky, you might just end up with $1 million!
Allison Williams on the Final Season of Girls: "It'll Feel OK to Say Goodbye"
This weekend, the final season of Girls will premiere. To say we're getting emotional about the show's end would certainly be an understatement, and if Allison Williams's farewell Instagram from the Fall is any indication, the cast is just as wrecked as we are. Speaking of Allison Williams, we recently hopped on the phone with the actress to talk about her new horror movie, Get Out. Of course, we couldn't resist asking Williams about Girls and what's in store for us once we hit this last batch of episodes.
"God, I don't want it to end," Williams sighed. "Even though it's definitely time. Like objectively, it's time. I think people will not be shocked that it's not the tidiest. It's not tied up with a bow. We don't have all the answers. But I think Lena has left it so that people have some notion of where they're all going. Of course, you've spent six years with all of these women, so you know us to our core. I think it'll be OK. It'll feel OK. It'll feel OK to say goodbye." Strap in, everyone. We're in for a doozy.
20 Love-Inspired Libations
Set the mood this V-Day with these sip-worthy cocktails, inspired by the Feb. 14 holiday. From romantic red concoctions to blissful bubbly, we've rounded up 20 sweet, tart, and fruity drinks for you to toast to a romantic night in or to share with gal pals at a Valentine's Day singles soirée. Get the recipes now!
-Additional reporting by Nicole Perry and Lisette Mejia
The Internet Is Obsessing Over This Darth Vader vs. Buzz Lightyear Battle Video
Sometimes, the internet answers questions for us we didn't know we even had. For example, I never thought about who would win in a battle between Darth Vader and Buzz Lightyear, but one fan solved that mystery in a homemade video.
Created by YouTube user Nukazooka, the epic four-minute battle shows Buzz Lightyear and Darth Vader trying to take each other down. Needless to say, Buzz finds it a bit difficult to conquer Vader's power with the Force. To see who wins the battle, watch the video above and prepare to flinch. Thank you, internet, for once again giving us the answers we need about our favorite characters.
These Are the 17 Pieces of Advice Real Moms Are Tired of Hearing
Image Source: Shutterstock
It certainly does take a village to raise a child, but that doesn't necessarily mean that you want the entire village weighing in on every single thing you do as a parent. Between people you know (and don't know) who have children, your own family, and - the best - friends who don't even have or want kids, the unsolictied advice can get a little old and overwhelming. There comes a time when you just need to raise up your hands and proclaim, "Mama knows best."
We asked real moms, "Which piece of advice are you most tired of hearing when it comes to raising your kids?" and have a feeling that you've probably heard some of these 17 gems as well.
- "'Let them eat what they want when they want.' . . . And no, they're not eating what they want when they want. I'm not a short order cook and and snacks aren't meals!" - Nicole
- "No tv before age 2. So that means everyone else has to watch in private. Come on!" - Meggan
- "You need to have more kids so she isn't an only child. She'll never learn how to share with others." - Becky
- "Stop cleaning my house and spend more time with my daughter." - Doreen
- "'You should let him eat more sweets.'" - Laura-Sian
- "'Boys will be boys, just let them go.'" - Skye
- "'If you always pick him up when he cries at night, he'll never sleep through the night...'" - Maria
- "Anything starting with 'if it was my kid..' from someone with no kids." - Arika
- "'The book says…'" - Kacie
- "That I need to stop breastfeeding when he gets teeth or at 1." - Paige
- " That I hold my daughter to much!!!!!" - Krystal
- "'You need to spank him or he won't grow up to be an adjusted adult in society.'" - Carrie
- "My auntie ( who doesn't have kids) said I had to breastfeed my youngest cuz bottle fed babies r always Ill and she will be fat." - Anne Marie
- "The 'scare threats' that start out like 'just wait 'til she...'" - Christie
- "'You need to make sure everything is certified organic and absolutely no sugar.' Psssh. I'm a single mom of two. Organic is expensive and they eat 3 bites no matter what it is anyway." - Amber
- "Anytime anyone without kids self righteously proclaims anything they will or won't do as a parent I roll my eyes. Keep dreaming darlin." - Jesika
And perhaps, the be-all and end-all of annoying comments is simply:
- "Pretty much anything that is unsolicited. Anything." - Amy
Image Source: New Line Cinema
Meet Sturgill Simpson, the Country Singer Going Up Against Beyoncé and Adele at the Grammys
Looking over the 2017 Grammy nominees, you'll see names like Adele, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Sia, and Ariana Grande. Then, there's Sturgill Simpson. While he's well-known in the country genre, he's not a household name - yet. Not only is he going up against Adele, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, and Drake for album of the year (in addition to country album of the year), he's the musical guest on Saturday Night Live this weekend. That said, it's time to get to know the singer!
While Kentucky-born Simpson formed his first band, Sunday Valley, in 2004, he gained critical attention with his solo album, High Top Mountain, released in 2013. His second album, 2014's Metamodern Sounds in Country Music, did even better, peaking at No. 11 on Billboard's Top Country Albums list. A Sailor's Guide to Earth, the album that earned Simpson his Grammy nomination, was released in April and has been climbing the charts. One of the biggest hits of the album is Simpson's cover of Nirvana's "In Bloom." Listen:
Pretty good, eh? We look forward to seeing more from Simpson, and I'm sure we will if he ends up besting the likes of Keith Urban and Loretta Lynn for best country album! (If Bey or Adele don't take album of the year, there will be rioting in the streets.)
New operating rooms will barely reduce surgery wait times, says iconic B.C. doctor
UBC researcher and doctor Pat McGeer says recent announcements will do little to reduce surgery backlog.
New operating rooms will barely reduce surgery wait times, says iconic B.C. doctor
UBC researcher and doctor Pat McGeer says recent announcements will do little to reduce surgery backlog.
Little Boy Completely Nails Looking Like a 100-Year-Old For His 100th Day of School
For my sons 100th day of school he had to dress like he was 100! He killed it!
The 100th day of school usually involves a few themed worksheets and a small celebration at most schools, but at one elementary school, they celebrate by dressing up as 100-year-olds - and one little boy's outfit is absolutely cracking us up.
"For my sons 100th day of school he had to dress like he was 100! He killed it!" said his mom in a post to Imgur featuring three photos of the "little old man." If your child's 100th day of school is coming up soon, consider allowing your little one to go rogue by channeling this boy and showing up to class looking just like Carl from Up.
These Are the Sexiest Hairstyles to Wear If You're Hooking Up
If there was ever an appropriate time to encourage others to "get some," it's Valentine's Day. The holiday of love is the best excuse to splurge on some sexy lingerie, try out some new toys, or stretch into that position your partner's been wanting to try.
But if there's one thing that can instantly negate all the feels that Valentine's Day gives us, it's sweaty, sticky sex hair. No, we're not talking about the windblown sex hair of the movies - we mean the result of the majority of intimate encounters: a matted mess of tangled strands and lost styling. However, there are some hairdos that fare surprisingly well while getting down and dirty with a loved one. Read on to discover your next late-night look.
Forgotten Your Resolutions Already? Here's the Motivation You Need
Making New Year's resolutions was the first step in getting healthier, so don't quit now! If you're having a hard time staying motivated to hit the gym and eat salads for lunch, or you've been slow to start those resolutions, these quotes will get you psyched to get back on track.
I Never Knew How Hardcore My Wife Was Until I Saw Her Give Birth
The following was syndicated from Quora for The Fatherly Forum, a community of parents and influencers with insights about work, family, and life at Fatherly.
Is childbirth really so dramatic?
All childbirth is a trauma to some degree. I can't imagine it's ever 'easy' but maybe some could be described as comparatively easy.
When I drove my wife to the hospital for the birth of our first I was in a pretty chill mood. Our friends already had kids and there was no reason to think it would be a problem for us. I was having a bit of a laugh with the midwives when we got there. I was excited. My wife was in a bit of discomfort but nothing terrible. Well, the night went on and the pain got worse for my wife who really never shows any pain if she feels it. I saw her face when the first real contractions came and I knew she was in some real agony. Still, this is to be expected I thought and I was dutifully supportive and sympathetic. My wife asked eventually for a spinal at about 3 AM (we'd been in since 10 PM) and they performed it with some simplicity, I went off for a brew, came back and my wife looked absolutely blissed out and chill. "Well, this is just cool," I thought.
We even got some sleep.
At about 7 AM I woke in the (hard) chair in the delivery suite to the midwife saying it was time to start pushing. We were on the home stretch. Well the pushing started, I held one of my wife's legs up because she couldn't feel or move it herself. The pushing commenced and went on and on and on. At this point, I'm starting to realize that this is pretty hard for my wife. You don't see people on a hard workout in the gym put this much effort in. Three hours later and still no baby. It just wouldn't make the last 'u-bend,' so they called in the surgeons for a cesarean. I was just about to don my scrubs when somebody said, "I think we can do this here with forceps." This sounded like a great idea. I was extremely naive. So the bed lost its last third and my wife had her legs in stirrups and I'm thinking, "Wow, this is quite involved. It's not like what you see on TV."
More pushing. Some serious work going on between my wife's legs. This petite French surgeon has the forceps around the baby's head and she is pulling with all her strength, her arms showing the muscle as she leans back. Eventually, a baby's head appeared and I felt that rush of bewilderment. It was finally real. So amazing. I kept telling my wife: "You've done it." I announced the gender when baby came fully out, except I got it wrong and said boy. My wife corrected me and said girl. We all laughed. That was the last laugh for a while. I was asked if I wanted to cut the cord, of course, I do! What doting, proud father wouldn't?
I went to the doctor at the 'business end' of my wife and I snipped that rubbery bacon rind like cord and as it dropped from my view my eyes were drawn to my wife's private parts. A cut had been made. Blood was literally gushing from her.
It reminded me of an overflowing bath. Suddenly, all joy was gone. I went to my newborn daughter who was lying on my wife's chest and I tried to talk but my heart had started pumping ice around my body. I told everyone I was going to pass out and just as they sat me on the chair I did exactly that.
You don't see people on a hard work out in the gym put this much effort in.
You know when you wake in the morning and you don't know what day it is, you don't know if it's Saturday or Monday? Do I have to go to work? This is the exact feeling I had as they shook me awake in that chair, for one moment everything was fine, then I was back in a nightmare. There were twice as many staff now in the room. They were rushing quietly and professionally around my wife who I noticed was milk pale, her hand gripping the sheet, a mask on her face. A surgeon was working between her legs and a midwife was massaging her stomach. They couldn't stop the bleeding. There was a poker face to most of them but one of the student nurses looked visibly shaken. I was terrified. The head nurse knelt in front of me and told me they were trying to stop the bleeding, did I want to hold my daughter. I held her, she hadn't yet cried and she just looked up at me with her deep, dark, beautiful newborn eyes. She never made a sound. I told her it was going to be okay, I kept telling her but really I was telling myself of course. The actual reality was I just didn't know. I've never been so scared.
Okay, I've gone on enough. Sorry. Thank you for making it to the end if you did. Yes, births can be incredibly dramatic. My wife lost almost 3 liters of blood. Half of her entire blood supply. Lose that at the roadside in an accident and you will die. She lost most of it in 10 minutes. She was mostly unaware of the severity of the situation as it was happening. It only dawned on her after the doctors told her. I could smell blood for a week after. I couldn't talk to anyone about it for months without crying. I have tears in my eyes now as I write. We have a happy ending, of course, and I realize this and I'm so thankful for it. I think maybe I have some kind of PTSD from it but it's okay.
We had our second daughter 2 months ago. That's a different story, though.
Forgotten Your Resolutions Already? Here's the Motivation You Need
Making New Year's resolutions was the first step in getting healthier, so don't quit now! If you're having a hard time staying motivated to hit the gym and eat salads for lunch, or you've been slow to start those resolutions, these quotes will get you psyched to get back on track.
19 Oscar-Nominated Films You Can Watch in the Comfort of Your Home
With the hoards of people, loud whisperers, and sometimes sticky floors, movie theaters aren't for everyone. This presents a problem when it comes to seeing this year's Oscar nominees, because so many of them are still playing on the big screen. We have good news, though! If you're cinema-averse, a handful of this year's Academy Award contenders are already available for home viewing. And given that the Oscars are still a ways away, the list will likely get longer in the days to come. Read on for a solid starter pack of nominated flicks that are out of theaters and in other convenient spots.
10 Shows to Watch When You're Missing Orange Is The New Black
We're still waiting for season five of Orange Is the New Black, and honestly, we just just don't know how to live our lives. There's only so much that behind-the-scenes Instagrams can do! We need a new story, one that's as hilarious and soulful as our beloved Netflix series. If you're also on the struggle bus, here are several options that will serve as suitable replacements until the season five premiere.
Netflix's Collection of True Crime Movies Will Give You Thrills, Chills, and Paranoia
Do you have a fever that only be cured by more high-intensity court scenes? Or a craving for the sound of jail doors closing? In other words, is your true crime addiction at an all-time high? If so, we, and Netflix, are here for you. Out of all of the new and exciting content on the streaming service, their criminal thrillers based on true stories are some of the most worthwhile. From the Oscar-winning Spotlight to a campy take on the Lizzie Borden story, we've rounded up everything you need for a true crime-binge.
Jamie Dornan Has a Fun Way of Making Sex Scenes With Dakota Johnson Less Awkward
With all of the, um, shall we say intimate sex scenes Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson have to pull off in Fifty Shades Darker, it doesn't come as a surprise that things might get a little weird on set. Luckily Jamie has a foolproof way of breaking the tension. "My temptation is always to try to make Dakota laugh," he told Graham Norton during a recent appearance on the British talk show, before revealing his genius technique. He also mentioned that there's way more sex in the second film, even though they didn't have to do the pool table scene this time around. Maybe they'll squeeze that one into Fifty Shades Freed?
This Mesmerizing Instagram Feed Will Immediately Have You Saying "Awww!"
Food porn can come in all shapes and sizes, but this woman's Instagram feed has given the word a whole new meaning, and we're completely fascinated. Li-Chi Pan is a "food and lifestyle creative" from Sydney, but to us, she's an artist. We stumbled upon her feed, where she's captured all the animalistic possibilities that even the simplest foods can have.
Sushi doughnuts are already impressive, but add mini rice balls as ears and tiny bits of soy paper for eyes and you've got a panda sushi doughnut. And the adorableness of her feed does not stop there. Need we say more? Keep reading to see Li-Chi's beyond impressive edible animal treats.
13 Circus Animal Cookie Recipes That Taste Like Childhood
You might not eat frosted Circus Animal cookies on a regular basis anymore, but that certainly doesn't mean you can't bake with them. We're reinventing the childhood favorite with these grown-up recipes that transform the cookie into a whole new dessert. From Circus Animal macarons to cheesecake, doughnuts, and more, these recipes are sure to make any bad day a little bit brighter, and will reinvigorate your love of the sprinkled cookies.
9 Real-Girl Ways to Wear Victoria's Secret Hair
There are certain hairstyles that have become Victoria's Secret staples, whether from the catalog or on the runway - voluminous waves, a tousled workout ponytail, and sexy beach waves, for example. Personally, we think every woman deserves to have her model moment. So, we enlisted a group of Glamsquad hairstylists to give our POPSUGAR staffers sultry makeovers.
We re-created the classic Victoria's Secret styles in honor of the first-ever international Bombshells' Day. For this special occasion, the brand encouraged women to pamper themselves with a spa day, a blowout, or a manicure. We definitely went above and beyond in our celebration here at POPSUGAR! Plus, we've broken down all the tips and products you'll need to get the same looks for you next date night. So go ahead, get your sexy on.
Adam Levine's Daughter Dusty Makes an Adorable Appearance at His Hollywood Star Ceremony
Adam Levine was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday, and had the support of not only his fellow The Voice coaches Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, but also his adoring wife, Behati Prinsloo, and their 4-month-old daughter, Dusty Rose. Behati held on to the little one in her seat next to Gwen while Adam was presented with his plaque, then the trio posed for a few sweet family photos together in front of Adam's star. We last caught a glimpse of Adam and Behati when they stepped out for an adults-only date night at an LA Lakers game in November; that same month, Adam made an appearance on The Ellen Show and revealed that the host was the one who gave them the baby girl's name.
Proudly Show Off Your Latina Roots in 1 of These 25 Graphic Tees
By now you're familiar with the "No Way Rosé" sweatshirts and the "Run Now, Wine Later" t-shirts - how are they still everywhere? And though you can easily relate to the sayings written across those garments, nothing beats the feeling of belonging that hits you when you see a funny tee that lightly pokes fun at your Spanish skills, highlights your Latino roots, or shows off a funny pun. That's why we've rounded up 25 tops that any Latina would want to pair with a cute skirt or comfy jeans on the weekend. Have fun, and don't take it so seriously!
Just How Crazy Is a Dog Show Schedule For Owners and Handlers?
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is upon us! Dogs and their owners and handlers are grooming, preparing, and competing in New York. It's safe to assume a dog show schedule is hectic for owners and handlers, but we didn't realize just how hectic. We recently got that answer from breeder/owner/handler and dog show expert Brenda Algar.
"If you're a handler, you probably start the day around 6 in the morning," she said. She added that it's typically much more work for a professional handler who has five to 10 dogs in any given show. Grooming a dog can take upwards of two hours each, especially if it's a dog with long hair, so Algar said in between grooming the dogs they might go show one of the dogs with short hair that doesn't require lengthy grooming.
"Then you run to the ring and you do your thing, and then you come back to your setup and you either grab another dog or you are working on another dog that you have to have in the ring 20 minutes from now," she said.
This will go on all morning and into the afternoon through the breed judging. If your dog makes it to group judging, the day continues. If your dog wins the group, your day continues to best in show judging, which can go until 9 p.m. or later. Then you still have to clean up from the day and maybe even bathe the dogs.
If you've come to a show as an owner, however, you may just have one or two dogs. Your day can end up very different if your dogs don't win the breed.
"I might get up at 4 a.m., drive two to three hours to a show, set up, and do my thing, but if I don't win, I just get back in the car and drive two to three hours back," Algar said. Owner handlers, which are those who own the dogs they're handling, can end up spending most of the weekend in the car driving rather than being at a show.
When it comes to Westminster, though, the schedule is even more drawn out, because events start on Saturday and run through Tuesday night. And we'll keep you posted on all of it!
You'll Fall in Love With These Gorgeous Valentine's Day Beauty Products
The primary function of Valentine's Day may be to celebrate love in all of its forms, but we'd argue that the holiday is also about indulgence. Beauty junkies pamper themselves with products all year, which means that it's necessary to seek out the top tier of treats for this special holiday. To save you time, we scoured the internet to find the chicest, cutest, and sexiest products you need in your glam arsenal. Read on to see the lovely assortment, and go ahead - treat yourself!
25+ Super Garlicky Recipes to Celebrate Your Singledom
Give the middle finger to Valentine's Day with these super garlicky recipes. If you're single, you deserve to celebrate your status by carb-loading on this day and packing your food with the best flavor known to mankind: garlic. Expect lots of pasta and garlicky cheese knots as well as plenty of comfort food like 40 clove of garlic chicken soup.
Did You Have a Crappy Indoor Cycling Class? This Is Why
Indoor cycling is one of the most popular workouts of the moment. The low-impact, high-intensity exercise lends itself to an accessible yet transformative sweat sesh. Classes book up within seconds once the schedule is posted, studios are packed, and it seems like the stationary bikes at the gym are always taken.
But are you getting the most out of your class? Are you seeing results? If not, it's probably because you're making a few classic mistakes that could be sabotaging your workout - mistakes that even experts make. Avery Johnson, trainer at Wheel House SF and certified Spin instructor, told us the top four things that ruin a workout and noted that they're (unfortunately) extremely common. We want you to have the best workout possible - so let's start with these basics!
1. You're Not Turning Up the Resistance
What's the number-one mistake this instructor always sees? "Not turning up your resistance!" she said. "This is the biggest possible mistake you can make. Way too many people leave their resistance too low in an attempt to sprint faster, or even while they're out of the saddle."
This is detrimental in so many ways. "Not only does this mean you are not actually getting a workout or challenging yourself, but it can be dangerous! I've had clients (my boyfriend included) come unclipped and fall off of their bikes by spinning too fast on low resistance. You can also hurt your knees and hips by doing this." Want to get a better workout? You've got to challenge yourself a little bit - turn up that wheel!
2. You're Not Watching Your Form
Riders not prioritizing their form is another insanely common mistake Avery sees frequently. "Shoulders should be relaxed, hands light, core tight, and back long," she said. This includes when you speed up! "Don't ever sacrifice form to keep up with the beat or movements in rhythm-based cycling classes." If you focus on correct form, you'll activate all the right muscle groups, burn more calories, prevent injury, and be able to keep cycling and working out for a long time. Don't sideline yourself by making this rookie mistake.
3. You're Not Setting Up Your Bike Correctly
Another way to ensure you're using all the right muscles and working your body properly: make sure you have the right customized settings for your body and build. "Proper bike setup is crucial and often overlooked," she said. "Do not be shy about having the instructor walk you through setup." This includes coming early to ask an instructor to analyze your form (see point 2) and make adjustments for you. "Many studios also have room captains and staff specifically there to help you set up properly."
And while it might seem trivial at first, the tiniest tweak can make a huge difference - or a really painful one. "You can cause your body serious injury and pain - not to mention sacrifice a good workout - all because your bike setup is even a few inches off.
4. You Have a Bad Attitude
"Have a friendly attitude," Avery said. "Sometimes studios and classes appear cultish or uninviting - be the friendly face in the room! Smile at your co-riders. Give a sweaty high five. Stop looking around the room and judging other riders and most importantly, stop judging yourself!" When you're focusing on unimportant things - like how fast someone else is riding, or who's not on the rhythm, or how you're not exactly on the beat - you're not focusing on your workout. And that's the important part!
"The hardest part is showing up. Who cares how 'good' you are or how 'good' you look doing it. Sweat! Focus on how you feel," she said. In terms of etiquette beyond attitude, Avery said, "Also, don't wear heavy perfume or scent to class, and don't talk while in class. That is distracting. Chat after!" Put all of your energy and attention into giving this workout your best, and you'll see better results.
Did You Have a Crappy Indoor Cycling Class? This Is Why
Indoor cycling is one of the most popular workouts of the moment. The low-impact, high-intensity exercise lends itself to an accessible yet transformative sweat sesh. Classes book up within seconds once the schedule is posted, studios are packed, and it seems like the stationary bikes at the gym are always taken.
But are you getting the most out of your class? Are you seeing results? If not, it's probably because you're making a few classic mistakes that could be sabotaging your workout - mistakes that even experts make. Avery Johnson, trainer at Wheel House SF and certified Spin instructor, told us the top four things that ruin a workout and noted that they're (unfortunately) extremely common. We want you to have the best workout possible - so let's start with these basics!
1. You're Not Turning Up the Resistance
What's the number-one mistake this instructor always sees? "Not turning up your resistance!" she said. "This is the biggest possible mistake you can make. Way too many people leave their resistance too low in an attempt to sprint faster, or even while they're out of the saddle."
This is detrimental in so many ways. "Not only does this mean you are not actually getting a workout or challenging yourself, but it can be dangerous! I've had clients (my boyfriend included) come unclipped and fall off of their bikes by spinning too fast on low resistance. You can also hurt your knees and hips by doing this." Want to get a better workout? You've got to challenge yourself a little bit - turn up that wheel!
2. You're Not Watching Your Form
Riders not prioritizing their form is another insanely common mistake Avery sees frequently. "Shoulders should be relaxed, hands light, core tight, and back long," she said. This includes when you speed up! "Don't ever sacrifice form to keep up with the beat or movements in rhythm-based cycling classes." If you focus on correct form, you'll activate all the right muscle groups, burn more calories, prevent injury, and be able to keep cycling and working out for a long time. Don't sideline yourself by making this rookie mistake.
3. You're Not Setting Up Your Bike Correctly
Another way to ensure you're using all the right muscles and working your body properly: make sure you have the right customized settings for your body and build. "Proper bike setup is crucial and often overlooked," she said. "Do not be shy about having the instructor walk you through setup." This includes coming early to ask an instructor to analyze your form (see point 2) and make adjustments for you. "Many studios also have room captains and staff specifically there to help you set up properly."
And while it might seem trivial at first, the tiniest tweak can make a huge difference - or a really painful one. "You can cause your body serious injury and pain - not to mention sacrifice a good workout - all because your bike setup is even a few inches off.
4. You Have a Bad Attitude
"Have a friendly attitude," Avery said. "Sometimes studios and classes appear cultish or uninviting - be the friendly face in the room! Smile at your co-riders. Give a sweaty high five. Stop looking around the room and judging other riders and most importantly, stop judging yourself!" When you're focusing on unimportant things - like how fast someone else is riding, or who's not on the rhythm, or how you're not exactly on the beat - you're not focusing on your workout. And that's the important part!
"The hardest part is showing up. Who cares how 'good' you are or how 'good' you look doing it. Sweat! Focus on how you feel," she said. In terms of etiquette beyond attitude, Avery said, "Also, don't wear heavy perfume or scent to class, and don't talk while in class. That is distracting. Chat after!" Put all of your energy and attention into giving this workout your best, and you'll see better results.
Holy Sh*t: Rey Could Be a Palpatine in the New Star Wars Trilogy
It's been well over a year since Star Wars: The Force Awakens blasted into our galaxy, and we're still processing. While there are some lingering questions about the latest trilogy, one glaring mystery seems to stick out among the rest: who the hell are Rey's parents? While there are plenty of plausible theories, one insane internet claim out there alleges the most unexpected lineage for Rey: she could be related to Emperor Palpatine. Is Rey the granddaughter of the evil Sith Lord? We're unpacking all the most prominent evidence so you can decide for yourself.
Her Fighting Style Is Similar
Rey's first move in her lightsaber duel with Kylo Ren is a forward stab. This also happens to be the exact same first move Emperor Palpatine executes in Revenge of the Sith. It's also worth noting that these are the only two Force-sensitive individuals to use this form of attack. They also share another move: swinging the lightsaber overhead and bringing it down, sledgehammer style. It can't just be coincidence . . . can it?
Rey Seems to Be Pulled Toward the Dark Side
There are a few passing moments in The Force Awakens that indicate a darkness within Rey. It's interesting to see how much she relishes telling Kylo Ren that he'll never be as great as Darth Vader. Later during their lightsaber battle, her bloodlust almost seems uncontrollable, and there's a moment near the end where she almost delivers a final deadly blow . . . until she lets him live. Could she be teetering on the edge of the dark side? Is it possible she has the power of the Sith running through her veins?
OK, Wait, Isn't Luke Rey's Father?
While Luke has been one of the most popular picks among the candidates for Rey's parents, there's a lot of evidence to suggest that it's just not so. First and foremost, it's simply just too obvious. The Force Awakens is filled with nods to a connection between Luke and Rey. There's the fact that Luke's lightsaber "calls out" to her. Then there's all of her Force-sensitivity and Jedi mind tricks, and that loaded scene with Luke himself at the end. It's so obvious! It's so heavy-handed! It would just be way too easy.
It stretches beyond that, of course. If Rey were Luke's daughter, could we really believe Han Solo and Leia Organa knew nothing of her existence? And why would Maz Kanata imply that Rey's parents were dead? If Luke is not the father, it leaves room for someone else.
The Skywalker vs. Palpatine Phenomenon
It's worth noting that this dichotomy appears in every Star Wars trilogy. In the original trilogy, Luke Skywalker faces off against Emperor Palpatine. In the next trilogy, Anakin Skywalker, still teetering on the edge of the dark side, also fights Palpatine before he becomes the deformed Sith Lord we recognize him as. In the new trilogy, Kylo Ren is a Skywalker. His mother is Leia Organa! Wouldn't it make the most sense to have another destined face-off? A Skywalker against Rey, a Palpatine? Furthermore, it would almost add a dash of poetic impact to the new movies. With a Skywalker as a Jedi and a Palpatine as a Sith in the preexisting films, this new entry is flipping everything on its head. Kylo Ren, the Skywalker, is a Sith. And Rey, possibly a Palpatine, is on the good side . . . for now.
There's so much more to unpack: the fact that Supreme Leader Snoke and Kylo Ren are obsessed with getting their hands on Rey, the fact that Rey is skewed toward the dark side on the poster for The Force Awakens, and even Luke's apparent apprehension in that haunting final scene. If you want to dig even deeper, this video does a pretty good job of covering everything:
OK, OK, we'll take off our tinfoil hats . . . for now.
Is There Anything Adriana Lima Can't Rock on the Red Carpet? Answer: No
Brazilian Victoria's Secret Angel Adriana Lima doesn't leave the sexy outfits on the runway, she brings them to the red carpet. No, she doesn't wear lingerie to events (though sometimes she gets close), but she does show lots of skin, wearing high slits, backless numbers, perfectly placed sheer panels, and low-cut necklines. See for yourself ahead by checking out the ever-changing supermodel's best looks of the year so far.
8 Shows You Should Watch If You're Obsessed With Riverdale
Riverdale has quickly become the new It show on The CW. With all the mystery, drama, and hot eye candy, what's not to love? Perhaps the reason we can't get enough of the series is because it reminds us of some of our other favorite TV shows. That love triangle between Betty, Veronica, and Archie? Totally Gossip Girl. The continuous question about who really killed Jason? So much like Twin Peaks. Not to mention the subtle retro vibe reminds us of Stranger Things. See which other popular series Riverdale has similarities to.
Sugary drink consumption by youth equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day
Sugary drink consumption projected to result in more than 63,000 deaths over the next 25 years, Canadian researchers estimate.
Sugary drink consumption by youth equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day
Sugary drink consumption projected to result in more than 63,000 deaths over the next 25 years, Canadian researchers estimate.
54 Envy-Inducing Diaper Bags For 2017
In addition to big gear like car seats, strollers, and cribs, diaper bags for moms- and dads-to-be are an important investment that come in a variety of options. Not only will these bags, backpacks, or totes contain baby's essentials, but they will be by your side throughout the entire start of your motherhood journey - so it should be something you love!
These must-have bags prove that parents don't have to compromise style for convenience when it comes to diaper bag shopping!
How 1 Epic Mom Flawlessly Trolled an Apple Store With Her Selfies
Remember that legendary kid who pulled the cell phone store prank you've secretly always wanted to do? Well, one hilarious mom is currently breaking the internet by nailing a similar stunt - and the backstory makes it even more giggle-worthy.
Imgur user Zigzag0 posted photos of the act with a caption that explained, "My dad and I (jokingly) told my mom we would leave the apple store only after she had taken a 'selfie' on every single device...next thing I know her face is all over the store." It looks like she took the joke a little too seriously, as she got down to business with her selfie-taking.
The photos quickly went viral, garnering comments of approval like "Worthy of recognition. Go mom!" and "Your mom rocks." And thus an internet legend was born. The unnamed mother left no device un-selfied, as she changed the background of what appears to be every single iPad and iPhone in the store. This woman is a fearless prank queen, and we're all about it.
It's Inexplicably Satisfying to Watch These Cake Decorating Videos
Have you ever lost yourself to How to Cake It? Yolanda Gampp is the blogger and bakestress extraordinaire who transforms cake and icing into . . . just about every character, food, and everyday object you can imagine. Her channel has over two million followers, and though she's shared dozens of intricate cake decorating videos, these are considered her most popular. You'll be amazed how she starts with 100 percent edible ingredients and shape-shifts them into watermelon, a stack of pancakes, and even an ice cream cone. Say goodbye to the next hour, because she'll have you glued to your screen.
We'll Only Shop For Groceries in This Hello Kitty Supermarket From Now On
A Hong Kong supermarket is turning grocery shopping into an unbearably adorable experience with its Hello Kitty pop-up. The delightful shop will be officially open for business - operating within Sai Wan's Yata Supermarket - from Feb. 12 to May 31.
The pop-up offers desserts, dry grocery items, home decor products, and general merchandise all inspired by the beloved Sanrio character. In addition, all of the shopping bags and carts will reflect the same theme, turning it into a truly immersive experience. Preview pictures reveal that the limited-edition popcorn and light-up cotton candy are hot commodities. It can also be expected that Hello Kitty herself will be stopping by the store from time to time.
According to the South China Morning Post, the pop-up could be an attempt to boost Hong Kong's struggling retail sector. We have a feeling the Instagram-ready supermarket will certainly be a step in the right direction.
Ahead, we've rounded up pictures of the pop-up, as well as a behind-the-scenes video of its construction.
14 Perfectly Sarcastic Expressions of Valentine's Day Torture
Single? Taken? Either way, there's a Valentine's Day meme for you; just ask Ryan Gosling or the Forever Alone rock. Here, we've gathered 14 images that make the holiday all that more memorable - and laughable.
Kelly Ripa Is Trying to Set Up Jake Gyllenhaal on a Date - and We Volunteer as Tribute
Jake Gyllenhaal stopped by Live With Kelly on Friday, and the audience could barely keep it together. While promoting his upcoming Broadway musical Sunday in the Park With George, the actor got a little flustered when the host talked about how she has tried (and failed) on numerous occasions to set him up with somebody. While his past dates didn't work out, most of the women in the audience were happy to oblige, including a rambunctious group of Brazilian women. Even The Walking Dead's Jeffrey Dean Morgan couldn't help but get lost in his gorgeous blue eyes, joking that Kelly should just set the two of them up on a date. LOL! We wonder how Hilarie Burton would feel about that.
The Oscar Performances Have Been Announced - and There's 1 Big Catch
Yes, the Oscars are all about the movies, but there's so much music to be celebrated too! The Academy has confirmed that, as usual, all of the nominated songs will be performed . . . but there's a catch. The songs that La La Land has been nominated for - "Audition" and "City of Stars" - won't be sung by Emma Stone or Ryan Gosling. They'll have a worthy replacement, but it's still a bit of a letdown. Before the big show on Feb. 26, listen to all the nominated songs and find out who will be singing them!
These New Gummies Are the Halo Top of Candy
Usually healthy desserts kind of feel like a sham, right? You try to tell yourself "it's just like the real thing!" But . . . is it? Is it really?
However, there are some brands that are seeeriously stepping up their game. Take Halo Top, for instance. The wizards at Halo Top Creamery created a healthy version of ice cream that was so delicious, our taste testers didn't even realize it was anything other than traditional ice cream.
Another brand that's doing just that? Smart Sweets. We were lucky enough to be among the first tasters of these healthy gummy bears, and honestly, we can't put the bag down - they're that addictive. The best part is that after housing an entire bag of candy, you don't feel bad (physically or mentally) . . . but you might feel like going to the bathroom. These sweet and sour little bears have insane amounts of fiber, but we'll get to that in a minute. Here's the rundown on our new healthy obsession.
What Are Smart Sweets?
Gummy bears! They come in the original sweet version and "seriously sour," a coated version that has a sour powder similar to that on the outside of Warheads candies, if you're familiar with them.
Smart Sweets was founded by 22-year-old Tara Bosch in Canada; it's currently available in stores across all of Canada, and online ships to the US and Canada. You can order a box of six bags for $26 USD.
What Makes Them Healthy?
- Almost no sugar. Smart Sweets are sweetened with chicory root and a small amount of stevia, so the ENTIRE BAG contains only 2 grams.
- Your whole day's fiber. Not only do these gummies curb a sweet tooth, but they've got 96 percent of your daily fiber - as much as SIX servings of veggies. This makes them filling and great for digestion. Just don't go overboard . . . we learned that one the hard way.
- Non-GMO, no artificial colors or ingredients. Smart Sweets keeps it clean.
- Even a little protein! It's not often you get protein in your candy! These have 5 grams per bag.
- Allergen-free. No peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, corn fiber, gluten, or sugar alcohols.
How Do They Taste?
They're sweet, tangy, and if you like the sour kind, they're really tart! The flavors are the same for each version: raspberry, peach, apple, and lemon. This makes them a little more unique compared to the traditional gummy bears you'll get at the drug store.
The texture is MUCH firmer and chewier than a traditional gummy. Some of our testers were not a fan, and too put-off by the texture and taste to enjoy the gummies (like our Fitness director, Michele). That said, most of us (including myself, our Food editor Anna, and Social Media editor Victor) really enjoyed them and embraced the chewiness.
If you're stevia-sensitive, you may notice the flavor, but most of us have found that it's subtle if not outright unnoticeable.
These New Gummies Are the Halo Top of Candy
Usually healthy desserts kind of feel like a sham, right? You try to tell yourself "it's just like the real thing!" But . . . is it? Is it really?
However, there are some brands that are seeeriously stepping up their game. Take Halo Top, for instance. The wizards at Halo Top Creamery created a healthy version of ice cream that was so delicious, our taste testers didn't even realize it was anything other than traditional ice cream.
Another brand that's doing just that? Smart Sweets. We were lucky enough to be among the first tasters of these healthy gummy bears, and honestly, we can't put the bag down - they're that addictive. The best part is that after housing an entire bag of candy, you don't feel bad (physically or mentally) . . . but you might feel like going to the bathroom. These sweet and sour little bears have insane amounts of fiber, but we'll get to that in a minute. Here's the rundown on our new healthy obsession.
What Are Smart Sweets?
Gummy bears! They come in the original sweet version and "seriously sour," a coated version that has a sour powder similar to that on the outside of Warheads candies, if you're familiar with them.
Smart Sweets was founded by 22-year-old Tara Bosch in Canada; it's currently available in stores across all of Canada, and online ships to the US and Canada. You can order a box of six bags for $26 USD.
What Makes Them Healthy?
- Almost no sugar. Smart Sweets are sweetened with chicory root and a small amount of stevia, so the ENTIRE BAG contains only 2 grams.
- Your whole day's fiber. Not only do these gummies curb a sweet tooth, but they've got 96 percent of your daily fiber - as much as SIX servings of veggies. This makes them filling and great for digestion. Just don't go overboard . . . we learned that one the hard way.
- Non-GMO, no artificial colors or ingredients. Smart Sweets keeps it clean.
- Even a little protein! It's not often you get protein in your candy! These have 5 grams per bag.
- Allergen-free. No peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, corn fiber, gluten, or sugar alcohols.
How Do They Taste?
They're sweet, tangy, and if you like the sour kind, they're really tart! The flavors are the same for each version: raspberry, peach, apple, and lemon. This makes them a little more unique compared to the traditional gummy bears you'll get at the drug store.
The texture is MUCH firmer and chewier than a traditional gummy. Some of our testers were not a fan, and too put-off by the texture and taste to enjoy the gummies (like our Fitness director, Michele). That said, most of us (including myself, our Food editor Anna, and Social Media editor Victor) really enjoyed them and embraced the chewiness.
If you're stevia-sensitive, you may notice the flavor, but most of us have found that it's subtle if not outright unnoticeable.
Wedding Music: 50 Processional Songs For Your Walk Down the Aisle
If you're planning a wedding soon, one of the most daunting (but fun) details to figure out is the music. We've got a wedding music guide so you know what you have to select tunes for, but as for those tunes, we can help. We have ideas for your first dance song and the father/daughter dance, but what about the ceremony? Your walk down the aisle kicks off the celebration, but why settle for "Here Comes the Bride?" We have a collection of processional song suggestions that span genres, from traditional and instrumental to indie and eclectic.
These Photos of 100 Calories of Valentine's Day Candy Will Probably Break Your Heart
The day of love is almost here, and besides exchanging Valentine's Day cards and romantic glances, this is a huge day of sweets. We're talking boxes of chocolate, heart-shaped sugar cookies, and other decadent treasures. You should definitely enjoy some bites of your favorite desserts, but before you do, find out how many calories those little bites will run you.
These Photos of 100 Calories of Valentine's Day Candy Will Probably Break Your Heart
The day of love is almost here, and besides exchanging Valentine's Day cards and romantic glances, this is a huge day of sweets. We're talking boxes of chocolate, heart-shaped sugar cookies, and other decadent treasures. You should definitely enjoy some bites of your favorite desserts, but before you do, find out how many calories those little bites will run you.
15 Reasons Moonlight Star Trevante Rhodes Should Be Your New Celebrity Crush
Trevante Rhodes is already making a name for himself with his beautiful performance in the Oscar-nominated film Moonlight, but we'd be lying if we said the 26-year-old actor wasn't also on our radar for his good looks. The former track and field sprinter has arms of steel and a chiseled chest that make it hard to look away whenever he's on screen. Keep scrolling to see 15 reasons he should be on your bae-watch list, too.
Olivia Palermo x Banana Republic Gives Us 1 More Reason to Look Forward to Fall '17
When you're chatting with Olivia Palermo, you notice two trademark qualities: her soft-spoken words and her impeccably styled outfit. For a Banana Republic pop-up event in NYC, Olivia was in a glittery, metallic navy skirt with a matching top and had tied a light sweater around her waist. It was this effortless, how-does-she-do-it style that drew a crowd around the star as she took photos and chatted about the items she curated specially for the pop-up shop.
"I love basics, you can always start and layer there," she said when asked about her in-store picks.
The star carefully selected items that fit her aesthetic for everything from the wall decor to the accessories to the Rimowa suitcases, which she "always travels with." Looking around the room, I soon realized that I (along with a hundred other people) had basically stepped into Olivia Palermo's closet. It was clean, modern, tailored to perfection, and very . . . Olivia. Her eye for design coupled with her street style prowess is what likely led to a Fall '17 collab with Banana Republic. Though details are slim, we can expect the capsule collection to feel like Olivia (and involve a pair of jeans or two).
"We just styled [the collection] a couple months ago," said Michael Anderson, Banana Republic's SVP of design. "It takes in all the things she loves - a little bit of the military and softened feminine. Everything is versatile, handpicked, and the fabrics are amazing. [The pop-up] is almost a prelude to our bigger capsule collection with her."
Though we have to wait a bit to see the exact pieces from the Fall collection, Olivia's Spring '17 picks are within our reach. In fact, you can shop the eight basic pieces ahead to keep you satisfied until next season.
Justin Timberlake Brings His Sexy Smirk to the Golf Course
Justin Timberlake brought his A-game to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in Pebble Beach, CA, this week. The sexy singer has proven that he's good at just about everything (see: songwriting, dancing, acting, comedy, generally looking good) and golf, of course, is no exception. He's participated in the PGA Tour event for several years - remember when he did the Carlton with Alfonso Ribeiro? Once again, he's teamed up to play with Justin Rose, and the handsome pair of Justins was seen celebrating their shots with a fist bump on Friday.
The sporty weekend comes during a big month for Justin Timberlake, who's up for an Oscar for best original song with his catchy Trolls hit, "Can't Stop the Feeling." He's been "pinching himself" over the nomination, and he recently attended the Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon, where he linked up with Matt Damon. Justin also graced the cover of The Hollywood Reporter this week, and he opened up to the magazine about fatherhood, fame, and why he left *NSYNC.
7 Tips That Make Going Back to Work After Maternity Leave Easier
Before you return to work from maternity leave, you're going to want to get as much support as possible. And I'm not just talking about childcare.
Between the emotional effects, the potential pumping logistics, and the physical stress of it all, you can't underestimate how big of a transition it will be. My own sister made her transition back to the office after each of her three kids look so seamless that I just didn't anticipate how complicated it could really be (read: I cried on my lunch breaks and spilled literal milk because I didn't have the proper pumping parts).
Now that I've done it twice, I have an arsenal of advice that I've texted to more than a few friends before their own returns to the working world.
1. Go Easy on Yourself
This applies as equally to practical matters like pumping as it does to more complicated ones like maintaining your relationship with your partner. The transition back to work is just that, a transition (aka a major stressor). Expect it to be hard and don't expect it to go perfectly. It might take you longer than you thought it would to get back into the swing of things at work, you might be snappier with your partner than you normally are, and you might not make it to the gym as much as you used to. It's OK. You're figuring out your new normal and that doesn't happen overnight. Give yourself a grace period to adjust. Try to ignore that giant laundry pile, take some commitments off your calendar, and generally just don't expect so much from yourself. This basically applies to all of motherhood.
2. Don't Combine Going Back to Work With Other Big Changes
Of course this can't always be helped, but you should try to avoid it if at all possible. It's enough just getting into a new groove without any additional stress (see above), and pushing yourself to the breaking point at this time in your life is a bad idea. The weeks before and after you return to work are NOT the time to wean from nursing or move to a new house - or cut your hair, for that matter.
3. Get Your Childcare in Place Early
Quality childcare is hard to find, which is why you should start your search long before you reboot your company computer. And once you find the right fit for your family, test it out. This will help you work out any issues, determine if your choice really is the right one, and give you and your baby a chance to get comfortable with one of the biggest changes in your new normal. You'll feel immensely better on your first day back if you don't have to worry as much about who you left your little one with (or where). You'll still worry to some degree (I even did with my son in my mother-in-law's care!), but feeling confident in your childcare setup will help ease those irrational fears and anxieties and allow you to focus on your job.
4. Write Everything Down
Research may suggest otherwise, but in my experience, "baby brain" is a real thing. I was more forgetful, felt less productive, and had a harder time concentrating after having both of my children. It's unfortunate timing because you've never needed to be more efficient at work than when childcare pickup or nanny scheduling prevents you from staying even a few minutes late to get your job done. The only thing that saved me were lists. I wrote down notes about what I needed to take with me to work on my phone (pumping parts!), left notepads of reminders for my nanny, used stickies on my computer to keep track of my to-dos, and sent myself grocery lists in emails. Come to think of it, I actually haven't stopped doing this.
5. Keep Extra Pumping Parts at the Office
If you'll be pumping at work, you want to be extra prepared. Twice I had to rush between Walgreens and City Target in desperate search of Medela milk storage bags only to find Lansinoh brand, which I then discovered are not actually compatible with Medela parts. After that I kept at least one backup of each pump part as well as a box of milk storage bags in my filing cabinet. I also kept a roll of paper towels and pack of wipes for those inevitable mishaps.
6. Ask For Updates
You might think that seeing pictures of your baby looking happy without you will make you sad (and it might), but it'll also make you feel better about being gone. Knowing they are just fine in another person's care allows you to keep your eye on the prize at work and not worry as much about how they're doing without you. Ask your childcare provider to text a few pictures or updates during the day. It always put a smile on my face when I got a photo of my son out for a walk in the stroller and eased my mind when I saw a text that documented how well his afternoon nap went.
7. Book Time Off
It can be tricky to request time off after you've just returned from an extended absence, but if you can swing it, get some PTO on the calendar. Even having just one day on the horizon that you know you'll get to spend with your baby will give you something to work toward. I took my first day off after maternity leave out of necessity (childcare problems, of course), but that random weekday spent soaking up my little guy was priceless and I've made a point to do it again (and again) since then.
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