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 17 mars 2017
6 Weird Things That Happen With Kids' Teeth
You might think the weirdest part of your kid's teeth is the fact that they do such a terrible job of brushing them, and yet they haven't rotted or completely fallen out yet. And maybe for your kid, that's true, but for other children, all kinds of craziness can occur within those tiny mouths. Check out these not totally unusual childhood dental issues - including one currently going on in my daughter's mouth that's named after a lethal sea animal - that put a mere lack of good dental hygiene to shame!
1. Newborn, Complete With Teeth
Baby teeth start to form when the baby is in the womb, but in most cases, the first one won't emerge from a child's gums until they are 6 to 12 months old. However, some babies are born sporting one or more already erupted pearly whites, surprising their parents. These teeth, technically called natal teeth, are usually just regular baby teeth that have come in six months early. Although they can cause anxiety for breastfeeding mothers, they're really nothing to worry about.
2. Double Teeth
Notice your child's baby teeth don't quite look normal? Some baby teeth appear to be two teeth stuck together as one tooth, a condition caused by either gemination or fusion. Germination is when one developing tooth splits off into two different teeth that remain attached to each other and develop together. When you count that "double tooth" as one tooth, the child will have a normal number of teeth. Fusion is when two different developing teeth join together to create one tooth. Although fusion looks very similar to germination, in the case of a fused tooth, when you count the total number of teeth, the child will be missing one.
3. Shark Teeth
Ordinarily, as the permanent teeth push up in your child's mouth, the roots of the baby teeth dissolve and that baby tooth eventually falls out. However, for some kids (including my own 5-year-old daughter), the baby teeth don't fall out, and the permanent teeth come in right behind them. The condition is technically called lingually erupting mandibular incisors, but more commonly known as shark teeth (sharks have two rows of teeth). Shark teeth are fairly common, occurring in as many as one in 10 kids. They usually resolve themselves as the adult tooth erupts more and more, eventually causing the baby tooth to fall out, but if not, your dentist might have to intervene and extract the baby tooth to prevent crowding issues.
4. Congenitally Missing Teeth
Most people have 32 permanent teeth, but about 20 percent of us don't, with one or more of our teeth failing to fully develop in a condition called congenitally missing teeth or, in scientific terms, hypodontia. Usually a dentist will rectify this dental situation with an implant or bridge, though in some cases, adults might still have a baby tooth that wasn't pushed out by their missing permanent tooth!
5. Knocked Out
The American Dental Association estimates that by the time kids graduate from high school, one in three boys and one in four girls have experienced a traumatic injury to their teeth. And as many parents of toddlers know, that occasionally means your kid could end up without a tooth or two for years. Baby teeth are a lot easier to knock out than permanent teeth because their crowns (the visible, top part of the tooth) are a lot longer than their roots, so if your kid has a massive face plant, they might come up without a tooth.
If that happens, first of all, you need to find the missing tooth to make sure it wasn't breathed into the child's airway. Then it's time to see your dentist. In most cases, especially if your child's tooth was already loose, you'll be advised to live with that gap until the permanent tooth emerges (even if that occurrence is years away). In some cases, your dentist might suggest reimplanting the tooth, but this is a case-by-case decision and will only be an option if you see your dentist right away.
6. Tooth-y Stem Cells
Regretting not storing your baby's cord blood? In a new push for banking stem cells, companies like Tooth Bank are storing dental stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate into various cell types. A dental professional extracts your child's baby tooth, then dental stem cells are harvested from the dental pulp within the tooth, and those dental stem cells are preserved and cryogenically frozen. Like cord-blood banking, the process isn't cheap. Expect to pay around $500 for the extraction and processing and another $100-plus per year for storage.
6 Irish TV Shows to Binge-Watch This St. Patrick's Day
When I was growing up, St. Patrick's Day always inspired a mix of emotions in my house. On the one hand, America's take on St. Patrick's Day always struck us as kind of weird and comical (seriously, lads, where did you come up with the whole "top of the morning" thing?). But on the other hand, March 17 inspired an annual bout of homesickness for the country my parents had left - and that I'd always considered my second home. Ever reluctant to assimilate (at least within the privacy of their own home), my parents would stock up on Irish bacon and Barry's tea bags and blast the RTÉ (Raidió Teilifís Éireann) morning show on our kitchen speakers.
While it helped, nothing could compare to the therapeutic value of television. Irish wit and sentimentality translate pretty well onto the small screen, and curling up on the couch watching Father Ted never failed to make us feel like we were back home again, at least for a little while. So without further ado, allow me to introduce six streamable TV series that will provide you with an authentic Irish experience this St. Patrick's Day. Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhuit!
Dancing With the Stars: Meet the Cast of Season 24!
It's that time again - time to survey the cast of the new Dancing With the Stars season! Deals are being put in place, foxtrots are being learned, and hopes and dreams are being put on the line. A few weeks ago, Entertainment Tonight exclusively reported the first major casting news, then Good Morning America revealed the entire cast. Not only will there be another Olympic gymnast this season, but The Bachelor himself will be taking to the dance floor. See what other celebrities will be shaking their tail feathers!
13 Little Known Facts About Goldie Hawn That Every Fan Should Know
We all know Goldie Hawn for her infectious laugh, her unapologetic sense of humor, and her résumé stacked with iconic film roles, but there's a lot about the Hollywood family matriarch and Academy Award winner that you might not be aware of. From the career she might have had to why it took her and longtime partner Kurt Russell so long to get together, we've rounded up all the nuggets of trivia any Goldie fan should know.
- She almost ditched acting to be a country singer. Can you imagine a world where instead of filming movies like Overboard and Private Benjamin, Goldie was belting it out onstage at the Grand Ole Opry? In 1972, she recorded a country LP for Warner Brothers called Goldie, with the lead single titled "Pitta Patta." Although she had the help of country icons Dolly Parton and Buck Owens on the album, she ended up picking Hollywood over Nashville.
- "Goldie" is a family name. Yes, Goldie is her real name. The unusual moniker is a nod to her mother's aunt, which she discussed during her Inside the Actors Studio appearance in 2008.
- Her middle name is less unique. Her full name is Goldie Jeanne Hawn.
- She practically came out of the womb dancing. Goldie's love of dance started early thanks to the ballet and tap dance lessons she was enrolled in at 3 years old. By the time she turned 10, she scored a spot in the chorus of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo production of The Nutcracker.
- She dropped out of college. The future superstar majored in drama at American University, but it soon became clear that a traditional education wasn't for her. In a video for Oprah's Master Class series, Goldie revealed that her parents never minded her getting bad grades, because "they knew, basically, what my vocation was going to be early on."
- Her first onstage role was as Juliet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In 1961 she got the role of Juliet in the Virginia Shakespeare Company's production of the legendary tragedy.
- She opened her own ballet school. By 1964, she was running and teaching in her own ballet academy in her hometown of Washington DC.
- Her aunt's nickname for her was "GoGo." While chatting with Hoda and Kathie Lee in 2014, she revealed that her grandchildren call her "GoGo," a nickname her aunt originally gave her (they call grandpa Kurt Russell "GoGee").
- "GoGo" coincidentally got her big break as a go-go dancer. The actress was originally hired as a go-go dancer on sketch comedy show Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In after dancing "in a cage, and on a pedestal" for a while in NYC. The job then eventually led her to more comedic roles in Hollywood.
- Her first husband was also a dancer. In 1969 Goldie married Gus Trikonis, who was one of the Sharks in West Side Story. They split in 1976.
- The start of her relationship with Kurt Russell was pure luck. The two first met on the set of The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band in 1968 when she was 21 and he was just 16, so nothing romantic happened. Luckily their paths crossed again when they played love interests in 1984's Swing Shift, and it didn't take long for a relationship to spark.
- She founded a charity dedicated to enriching childhood education. Goldie created The Hawn Foundation to help improve the academic lives of young kids after being "moved by statistics about the increases in school violence and bullying, youth depression, and suicide."
- She practices meditation. Although she identifies as Jewish, she owes her sunny disposition to meditation. "It's not the idea of a particular religion that's important," she told Prevention. "It's the development of a spiritual life."
13 Little Known Facts About Goldie Hawn That Every Fan Should Know
We all know Goldie Hawn for her infectious laugh, her unapologetic sense of humor, and her résumé stacked with iconic film roles, but there's a lot about the Hollywood family matriarch and Academy Award winner that you might not be aware of. From the career she might have had to why it took her and longtime partner Kurt Russell so long to get together, we've rounded up all the nuggets of trivia any Goldie fan should know.
- She almost ditched acting to be a country singer. Can you imagine a world where instead of filming movies like Overboard and Private Benjamin, Goldie was belting it out onstage at the Grand Ole Opry? In 1972, she recorded a country LP for Warner Brothers called Goldie, with the lead single titled "Pitta Patta." Although she had the help of country icons Dolly Parton and Buck Owens on the album, she ended up picking Hollywood over Nashville.
- "Goldie" is a family name. Yes, Goldie is her real name. The unusual moniker is a nod to her mother's aunt, which she discussed during her Inside the Actors Studio appearance in 2008.
- Her middle name is less unique. Her full name is Goldie Jeanne Hawn.
- She practically came out of the womb dancing. Goldie's love of dance started early thanks to the ballet and tap dance lessons she was enrolled in at 3 years old. By the time she turned 10, she scored a spot in the chorus of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo production of The Nutcracker.
- She dropped out of college. The future superstar majored in drama at American University, but it soon became clear that a traditional education wasn't for her. In a video for Oprah's Master Class series, Goldie revealed that her parents never minded her getting bad grades, because "they knew, basically, what my vocation was going to be early on."
- Her first onstage role was as Juliet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In 1961 she got the role of Juliet in the Virginia Shakespeare Company's production of the legendary tragedy.
- She opened her own ballet school. By 1964, she was running and teaching in her own ballet academy in her hometown of Washington DC.
- Her aunt's nickname for her was "GoGo." While chatting with Hoda and Kathie Lee in 2014, she revealed that her grandchildren call her "GoGo," a nickname her aunt originally gave her (they call grandpa Kurt Russell "GoGee").
- "GoGo" coincidentally got her big break as a go-go dancer. The actress was originally hired as a go-go dancer on sketch comedy show Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In after dancing "in a cage, and on a pedestal" for a while in NYC. The job then eventually led her to more comedic roles in Hollywood.
- Her first husband was also a dancer. In 1969 Goldie married Gus Trikonis, who was one of the Sharks in West Side Story. They split in 1976.
- The start of her relationship with Kurt Russell was pure luck. The two first met on the set of The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band in 1968 when she was 21 and he was just 16, so nothing romantic happened. Luckily their paths crossed again when they played love interests in 1984's Swing Shift, and it didn't take long for a relationship to spark.
- She founded a charity dedicated to enriching childhood education. Goldie created The Hawn Foundation to help improve the academic lives of young kids after being "moved by statistics about the increases in school violence and bullying, youth depression, and suicide."
- She practices meditation. Although she identifies as Jewish, she owes her sunny disposition to meditation. "It's not the idea of a particular religion that's important," she told Prevention. "It's the development of a spiritual life."
9 Street Style Trends You'll Wear For the Rest of 2017
Every season, we can count on street style stars to inspire the way we style the latest trends. One look at their outfits, and we're convinced that white boots are worth investing in and that a corset is wearable IRL. We spotted these pieces on trendsetters across major cities like NYC and Paris, and as Fashion Month comes to a close, we're left with a shopping list longer than we ever anticipated. Since it's difficult to keep track of every amazing street style outfit you see, we've managed to boil the looks down to nine repeated trends. These are the ones you will be wearing for the rest of the year. And if you're eager to get ahead on Fall '17, here are the eight major trends from the runways.
8 Secrets of a Chinese Restaurant, Revealed by an Employee
If you've always wanted to know what really goes on inside a Chinese restaurant, you're in luck. A restaurant employee recently did a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) entitled Your Typical Chinese Restaurant Employee, and he answered a lot of users' questions that touched on everything except the exact recipes (some things have to remain a secret!). He wrote, "I am Chinese. Parents are Chinese. Parents own a typical take out Chinese food restaurant. I have worked there almost all my life and I know almost all the ins and outs." Curious about his insider secrets? Read on for some of the standout questions and answers, and then catch up on the whole AMA here.
1. The secret to authentic Chinese food is the sauce.
Someone mentioned that they try to make Chinese food at home but it's never nearly as good - not even "as good as the worst Chinese takeout." Turns out, the major difference is the sauce.
2. Using a wok makes a difference.
Another reason your homemade stir fries and lo mein might not taste authentic is that using a wok is far superior to a regular skillet. "The ability to flash cook in a wok makes a big difference believe it or not."
3. North American Chinese food is cheaper.
4. The secret to the chicken in dishes like General Tso's is the breading.
5. Yes, many restaurants really do use the same images for the menu.
6. Don't believe a restaurant if it says it doesn't have MSG . . . it's already in soy sauce and many other sauces.
7. The best thing to order is anything Mongolian style. At least, that's this guy's personal favorite.
8. The one thing you should NEVER order is . . . fries.
10 Terrible and Wonderful Reasons New Moms Cry
When you leave the hospital as a first-time mom, you know you'll be taking with you your bundle of joy, probably some lingering pain from the delivery . . . but did you know you'd signed up for a whole new breadth of emotions? Call it the baby blues, call it hormones, call it whatever you want, we can promise you that they're going to be in overdrive. Our best advice? Have a sense of humor about it. Here, 10 true but hilarious things that we can (almost) guarantee that a new mom will cry over during year one of parenthood.
12 Hot Latino Chefs That'll Light a Flame in Your Soul
What's one trait that will immediately make a guy more attractive? Obviously, it's the ability to make us delicious breakfast in bed and a romantic candlelit dinner that'll blow our minds.
The 12 chefs ahead can not only whip up intricate dishes that'll leave you licking your fingers, but are also, well, easy to look at. Whether you like your men rugged, muscular or hipster, there's a dude here you'll want to follow on Instagram - and more than a few restaurants you'll want to hit up ASAP.
This Badass Trainer Is Going to Be Your New Role Model and Fitspo
As a fitness and health editor, I meet so many inspiring people. I'm constantly in awe of the drive, determination, humility, optimism, and passion of the athletes, trainers, and everyday women I've been so fortunate to come across and learn more about.
The other day, one of my good friends asked me, "Who do you look up to the most? Who is living a life that inspires you and motivates you to do more?" and - besides my own mother, who is an angel in her own way - the woman who instantly came to my mind was Jenny Gaither.
When I moved to San Francisco and knew literally no one, Jenny was among the first people I could call a friend. Her warmth, kindness, selflessness, and love emanated, and I knew I was in the presence of someone special.
Before I get ahead of myself, meet Jenny: entrepreneur, trainer, dancer, philanthropist, and body-positive evangelist. She's the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Movemeant Foundation (which funds "movement-based, body-positive curriculums for at-risk middle school girls, communities, and other nonprofit organizations for young girls"), in addition to being a Senior SoulCycle Instructor, a dancer and choreographer (the brains behind the "Notorious FIT" classes in the Bay Area), and creator of Dare to Bare - "the country's largest body-positive fundraising fitness event."
In fact, I first met Jenny at Dare to Bare in 2016 - it was the first time I was introduced to the body-positive movement, where hundreds of women flaunted their beautiful bodies of all shapes and sizes.
Jenny's Journey
"I was not the athletic superstar my parents hoped I'd be," Jenny said. When she was only 6 years old, Jenny's parents put her into club basketball, with high hopes that she'd love the sport as much as they did. "At that age, I was self-aware enough to know I lacked hand-eye coordination and an understanding of the game," she said. She described her younger self as lanky and uncoordinated and said that her experience was "beyond embarrassing."
"For once in my life I felt like I was good at something that also brought me so much joy."
But this wasn't the end of her journey - in fact, her basketball follies led her to one of her greatest passions: dance. "I was dancing and skipping across the basketball court instead of running," said Jenny, so her parents enrolled her in a dance class. With a self-described "natural kinesthetic understanding of rhythm and a passion for music," she fell in love with dance and movement. "By the age of 7, I was a competing nationally and for once in my life, I felt like I was good at something that also brought me so much joy."
Her passion for dance led to a serious commitment in her teens. "In high school, I commuted from Santa Cruz to Mountain View every day to dance with a company based in San Francisco," she said. "I wouldn't get home until 11:30 p.m. every night. My rehearsals were long and rigorous."
As basketball introduced her to dance, dance introduced her to Pilates. Because she was putting her body through so much, she knew she had to cross-train and ended up falling in love with Pilates. This led her to her first training position: a certified Pilates instructor.
Jenny danced on scholarship at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where she "built a solid foundation as a teacher and trainer," and even taught dance and Pilates at school herself. From there, there's only one place for such an established dancer to go: New York City.
After dancing and teaching Pilates in New York, she found the third love of her fitness life, SoulCycle. "I was encouraged to audition for SoulCycle, which ultimately became my dance class on a bike - a way to create a physical connection to a more confident sense of self. Seven years later, I've taught in multiple cities to thousands upon thousands of riders, but am thrilled to call the Bay my home base. And it's through the Bay Area support that my career is coming full circle with the start of my hip-hop cardio dance class, Notorious FIT."
"SoulCycle became a way to create a physical connection to a more confident sense of self."
After a couple of decades of movement and fitness, it was SoulCycle that finally taught Jenny the importance of fitness for mental and emotional health. She "quit dance altogether," and became a SoulCycle instructor full time. "It opened my eyes, she said. "Unlike other workouts I've tried, for me, SoulCycle has never been about weight loss or looking a certain way. Ever since my first class, it's been about self-exploration, acceptance, and confidence building. I joke that it's another form of therapy, but it actually is a complete mental and emotional release for me."
Personal Challenges
Jenny has achieved phenomenal success with her fitness journey, but it didn't come without its share of setbacks.
Her secret? Despite being "a fitness professional and junkie," she shared "I suffered from body image issues . . . I had been a long time competitive dancer where I faced self-image issues due to the crazy expectations of how I looked, which eventually lead to eating disorders."
"I validated myself and my happiness based on the opinions of my peers and society's standards of women, as opposed to my own," she said. "It's a dancer's mentality and ambition to be flawless; to move through life with grace, ease, and precision. However, I quickly learned that's no way to live."
A few years ago in a SoulCycle class, Jenny had a Rihanna-and-sweat-infused epiphany, fueled by endorphins and wrapped in a gold lamé jacket. She was so self-conscious about her body, that she refused to take her jacket off and reveal her sports bra and what she affectionately calls her "belly jelly."
"Seeing how much I've grown inspires me to continue to explore the life-changing benefits physical activity can have on all women."
"I taught the hot and sweaty class with my jacket on and at one point thought I was going to pass out because I was overheated. It was then that I came face to face with my own lifetime's worth of body image issues and realized the uncomfortable truth – that my own journey of self-acceptance was just beginning."
She noted that she felt pretty frustrated, yet still deeply supported by SoulCycle's community. When she taught a class in which "all of the women were encouraged to wear their sports bras," she mustered up the courage to bare it all. "I realized how important this issue is and what a real struggle it is for most women to accept and feel comfortable in their bodies."
Jenny took this experience and turned it into something even bigger and better, saying, "it was my own personal journey that led me to create Movemeant Foundation," the nonprofit that now empowers women nationally. Jenny said, "Seeing how much I've personally grown physically, emotionally, and mentally from indoor cycling only inspires me to continue to explore the life-changing benefits physical activity can have on all women."
Movemeant started with just one event. "The riders who took part in the sports-bra baring class found it just as liberating and empowering as I did," she said. At that point, she knew it was time to scale up. "I decided to offer the experience on a much larger scale and evolved the sports bra ride into an outdoor fitness event: Dare to Bare." But it didn't stop there - word was spreading nationally.
"There was so much buzz and excitement from women all over the country who wanted to get involved," she said. "I decided there needed to be more support than just a one-off event." The wheels were turning, and Jenny was more inspired than ever - "Women needed a platform of support, resources and education to overcome the uphill battle toward finding self-love, acceptance, and a healthy relationship with their bodies. This is when I decided to create what is now Movemeant."
"My own journey of self-acceptance was only just beginning."
Vision For the Future
Dare to Bare continues today, on a larger scale than ever before. The festival takes place on both coasts, in San Francisco and New York City (if you're in the area, join us!), packed with impossibly popular fitness classes, the most sought-after fitness instructors in the country, and a sea of sports bras and smiling faces. And it's not just a SoulCycle event - women learn how to "dance like Beyoncé," build a strong core with TRX training, or challenge themselves with bootcamp workouts, all in a sports bra.
And not only do women feel empowered by learning to love their bodies but the funds raised go right back to Movemeant to fund the aforementioned curriculums and programs for middle school girls, so the next generation of women grow up loving their bodies. "Movemeant Foundation's mission is simple," she told us. "To empower young women across the country to use movement - running, dancing, biking, and more as a form of self expression that enables them to emotionally and psychologically connect to their bodies." Wow, right? "They learn self-esteem, build positive body image, and begin to uncover the best version of themselves." So yes, if you're wondering, Jenny really IS a freakin' superstar.
She's not stopping, and Movemeant is picking up more and more steam. "My initial vision was to give every woman the chance to feel how I feel after a SoulCycle class - unstoppable, fierce, and worthy of happiness and success," she said. "The vision today is very similar. I believe every body is meant to move and every body should be given the opportunity to move. Through physical movement, we can greatly change how young girls and women view and value themselves. By building a positive relationship with her body, she then can build confidence and self-worth."
Today, Movemeant works with #ShePlaysWeWin, a photo project that showcases the power of movement, sports, and fitness on a young woman's self-confidence. Together they fund grants that provide sports instruction, gear, activewear, and coaching and mentorship to disadvantaged girls between 8 and 16 years of age. Recipients of these scholarships have gone on to learn how to snowboard, participate in ice hockey, and play sports like basketball, hockey, and tennis.
Even more grants are going to programs like The Wahine Project and iSurf School, Cycle Kids in Boston, and Women's Health Education Program in Ohio. On top of that, Movemeant delivers "physical programming," like "hip-hop dance, cheer dance, yoga, Zumba, [and] kick-boxing" - with the intent of building self-esteem - to middle school-aged girls. They currently provide these programs in 10 middle schools in the Bay Area.
Movemeant creates campaigns to inspire and empower women to love their bodies. They're combating the obesity epidemic while giving strength and hope to women with insecurities. They're changing the game of fitness, health, and wellness for women, starting by fortifying the younger generation and equipping them with the tools they need to live a stronger, healthier, happier life.
Words of Wisdom
Jenny is truly changing the world, but who inspired Jenny to be so inspirational herself? "I am a huge Brené Brown fan girl," she told us. "One of my favorite quotes of hers is, 'When you get to a place where you understand that love and belonging, your worthiness, is a birthright and not something you have to earn, anything is possible.'"
She said the problem that most women face today with fitness - the barrier that keeps them from changing their lives for the better - is that "fitness has become synonymous with punishment, and often, it's inaccessible to many women." It starts with small steps - "Getting out there and moving teaches self-reliance; it allows you to uncover what your body is truly capable of." And that, the moving and learning about yourself, "not the dropping of pounds," is what Jenny calls "the kind of transformation we should be celebrating."
"Through physical movement, we can greatly change how young girls and women view and value themselves."
If you're just beginning your own journey, Jenny says to find a support system, find an activity you love, be proud, and keep taking risks. "Surround yourself with only with people who value, appreciate, and respect everything about you," she said. She also urged the importance of dissociating exercise with the stigmas: "When I used to hear the word 'exercise,' I'd think of treadmills, burpees, and sprints - all things I hated. So if you don't like working out, don't work out! Instead, go dance. Climb. Swim. Take a walk or a bike ride. Because if you call it what you like, you'll like it, and it should feel like a reward."
"Accomplish something that is challenging to you," she said. "There's no greater thrill than realizing you're capable of anything if you invest your heart and soul into it."
This Badass Trainer Is Going to Be Your New Role Model and Fitspo
As a fitness and health editor, I meet so many inspiring people. I'm constantly in awe of the drive, determination, humility, optimism, and passion of the athletes, trainers, and everyday women I've been so fortunate to come across and learn more about.
The other day, one of my good friends asked me, "Who do you look up to the most? Who is living a life that inspires you and motivates you to do more?" and - besides my own mother, who is an angel in her own way - the woman who instantly came to my mind was Jenny Gaither.
When I moved to San Francisco and knew literally no one, Jenny was among the first people I could call a friend. Her warmth, kindness, selflessness, and love emanated, and I knew I was in the presence of someone special.
Before I get ahead of myself, meet Jenny: entrepreneur, trainer, dancer, philanthropist, and body-positive evangelist. She's the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Movemeant Foundation (which funds "movement-based, body-positive curriculums for at-risk middle school girls, communities, and other nonprofit organizations for young girls"), in addition to being a Senior SoulCycle Instructor, a dancer and choreographer (the brains behind the "Notorious FIT" classes in the Bay Area), and creator of Dare to Bare - "the country's largest body-positive fundraising fitness event."
In fact, I first met Jenny at Dare to Bare in 2016 - it was the first time I was introduced to the body-positive movement, where hundreds of women flaunted their beautiful bodies of all shapes and sizes.
Jenny's Journey
"I was not the athletic superstar my parents hoped I'd be," Jenny said. When she was only 6 years old, Jenny's parents put her into club basketball, with high hopes that she'd love the sport as much as they did. "At that age, I was self-aware enough to know I lacked hand-eye coordination and an understanding of the game," she said. She described her younger self as lanky and uncoordinated and said that her experience was "beyond embarrassing."
"For once in my life I felt like I was good at something that also brought me so much joy."
But this wasn't the end of her journey - in fact, her basketball follies led her to one of her greatest passions: dance. "I was dancing and skipping across the basketball court instead of running," said Jenny, so her parents enrolled her in a dance class. With a self-described "natural kinesthetic understanding of rhythm and a passion for music," she fell in love with dance and movement. "By the age of 7, I was a competing nationally and for once in my life, I felt like I was good at something that also brought me so much joy."
Her passion for dance led to a serious commitment in her teens. "In high school, I commuted from Santa Cruz to Mountain View every day to dance with a company based in San Francisco," she said. "I wouldn't get home until 11:30 p.m. every night. My rehearsals were long and rigorous."
As basketball introduced her to dance, dance introduced her to Pilates. Because she was putting her body through so much, she knew she had to cross-train and ended up falling in love with Pilates. This led her to her first training position: a certified Pilates instructor.
Jenny danced on scholarship at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where she "built a solid foundation as a teacher and trainer," and even taught dance and Pilates at school herself. From there, there's only one place for such an established dancer to go: New York City.
After dancing and teaching Pilates in New York, she found the third love of her fitness life, SoulCycle. "I was encouraged to audition for SoulCycle, which ultimately became my dance class on a bike - a way to create a physical connection to a more confident sense of self. Seven years later, I've taught in multiple cities to thousands upon thousands of riders, but am thrilled to call the Bay my home base. And it's through the Bay Area support that my career is coming full circle with the start of my hip-hop cardio dance class, Notorious FIT."
"SoulCycle became a way to create a physical connection to a more confident sense of self."
After a couple of decades of movement and fitness, it was SoulCycle that finally taught Jenny the importance of fitness for mental and emotional health. She "quit dance altogether," and became a SoulCycle instructor full time. "It opened my eyes, she said. "Unlike other workouts I've tried, for me, SoulCycle has never been about weight loss or looking a certain way. Ever since my first class, it's been about self-exploration, acceptance, and confidence building. I joke that it's another form of therapy, but it actually is a complete mental and emotional release for me."
Personal Challenges
Jenny has achieved phenomenal success with her fitness journey, but it didn't come without its share of setbacks.
Her secret? Despite being "a fitness professional and junkie," she shared "I suffered from body image issues . . . I had been a long time competitive dancer where I faced self-image issues due to the crazy expectations of how I looked, which eventually lead to eating disorders."
"I validated myself and my happiness based on the opinions of my peers and society's standards of women, as opposed to my own," she said. "It's a dancer's mentality and ambition to be flawless; to move through life with grace, ease, and precision. However, I quickly learned that's no way to live."
A few years ago in a SoulCycle class, Jenny had a Rihanna-and-sweat-infused epiphany, fueled by endorphins and wrapped in a gold lamé jacket. She was so self-conscious about her body, that she refused to take her jacket off and reveal her sports bra and what she affectionately calls her "belly jelly."
"Seeing how much I've grown inspires me to continue to explore the life-changing benefits physical activity can have on all women."
"I taught the hot and sweaty class with my jacket on and at one point thought I was going to pass out because I was overheated. It was then that I came face to face with my own lifetime's worth of body image issues and realized the uncomfortable truth – that my own journey of self-acceptance was just beginning."
She noted that she felt pretty frustrated, yet still deeply supported by SoulCycle's community. When she taught a class in which "all of the women were encouraged to wear their sports bras," she mustered up the courage to bare it all. "I realized how important this issue is and what a real struggle it is for most women to accept and feel comfortable in their bodies."
Jenny took this experience and turned it into something even bigger and better, saying, "it was my own personal journey that led me to create Movemeant Foundation," the nonprofit that now empowers women nationally. Jenny said, "Seeing how much I've personally grown physically, emotionally, and mentally from indoor cycling only inspires me to continue to explore the life-changing benefits physical activity can have on all women."
Movemeant started with just one event. "The riders who took part in the sports-bra baring class found it just as liberating and empowering as I did," she said. At that point, she knew it was time to scale up. "I decided to offer the experience on a much larger scale and evolved the sports bra ride into an outdoor fitness event: Dare to Bare." But it didn't stop there - word was spreading nationally.
"There was so much buzz and excitement from women all over the country who wanted to get involved," she said. "I decided there needed to be more support than just a one-off event." The wheels were turning, and Jenny was more inspired than ever - "Women needed a platform of support, resources and education to overcome the uphill battle toward finding self-love, acceptance, and a healthy relationship with their bodies. This is when I decided to create what is now Movemeant."
"My own journey of self-acceptance was only just beginning."
Vision For the Future
Dare to Bare continues today, on a larger scale than ever before. The festival takes place on both coasts, in San Francisco and New York City (if you're in the area, join us!), packed with impossibly popular fitness classes, the most sought-after fitness instructors in the country, and a sea of sports bras and smiling faces. And it's not just a SoulCycle event - women learn how to "dance like Beyoncé," build a strong core with TRX training, or challenge themselves with bootcamp workouts, all in a sports bra.
And not only do women feel empowered by learning to love their bodies but the funds raised go right back to Movemeant to fund the aforementioned curriculums and programs for middle school girls, so the next generation of women grow up loving their bodies. "Movemeant Foundation's mission is simple," she told us. "To empower young women across the country to use movement - running, dancing, biking, and more as a form of self expression that enables them to emotionally and psychologically connect to their bodies." Wow, right? "They learn self-esteem, build positive body image, and begin to uncover the best version of themselves." So yes, if you're wondering, Jenny really IS a freakin' superstar.
She's not stopping, and Movemeant is picking up more and more steam. "My initial vision was to give every woman the chance to feel how I feel after a SoulCycle class - unstoppable, fierce, and worthy of happiness and success," she said. "The vision today is very similar. I believe every body is meant to move and every body should be given the opportunity to move. Through physical movement, we can greatly change how young girls and women view and value themselves. By building a positive relationship with her body, she then can build confidence and self-worth."
Today, Movemeant works with #ShePlaysWeWin, a photo project that showcases the power of movement, sports, and fitness on a young woman's self-confidence. Together they fund grants that provide sports instruction, gear, activewear, and coaching and mentorship to disadvantaged girls between 8 and 16 years of age. Recipients of these scholarships have gone on to learn how to snowboard, participate in ice hockey, and play sports like basketball, hockey, and tennis.
Even more grants are going to programs like The Wahine Project and iSurf School, Cycle Kids in Boston, and Women's Health Education Program in Ohio. On top of that, Movemeant delivers "physical programming," like "hip-hop dance, cheer dance, yoga, Zumba, [and] kick-boxing" - with the intent of building self-esteem - to middle school-aged girls. They currently provide these programs in 10 middle schools in the Bay Area.
Movemeant creates campaigns to inspire and empower women to love their bodies. They're combating the obesity epidemic while giving strength and hope to women with insecurities. They're changing the game of fitness, health, and wellness for women, starting by fortifying the younger generation and equipping them with the tools they need to live a stronger, healthier, happier life.
Words of Wisdom
Jenny is truly changing the world, but who inspired Jenny to be so inspirational herself? "I am a huge Brené Brown fan girl," she told us. "One of my favorite quotes of hers is, 'When you get to a place where you understand that love and belonging, your worthiness, is a birthright and not something you have to earn, anything is possible.'"
She said the problem that most women face today with fitness - the barrier that keeps them from changing their lives for the better - is that "fitness has become synonymous with punishment, and often, it's inaccessible to many women." It starts with small steps - "Getting out there and moving teaches self-reliance; it allows you to uncover what your body is truly capable of." And that, the moving and learning about yourself, "not the dropping of pounds," is what Jenny calls "the kind of transformation we should be celebrating."
"Through physical movement, we can greatly change how young girls and women view and value themselves."
If you're just beginning your own journey, Jenny says to find a support system, find an activity you love, be proud, and keep taking risks. "Surround yourself with only with people who value, appreciate, and respect everything about you," she said. She also urged the importance of dissociating exercise with the stigmas: "When I used to hear the word 'exercise,' I'd think of treadmills, burpees, and sprints - all things I hated. So if you don't like working out, don't work out! Instead, go dance. Climb. Swim. Take a walk or a bike ride. Because if you call it what you like, you'll like it, and it should feel like a reward."
"Accomplish something that is challenging to you," she said. "There's no greater thrill than realizing you're capable of anything if you invest your heart and soul into it."
23 Alton Brown Recipes You Have to Try ASAP
Alton Brown recipes are always a good idea, because the Food Network chef knows a thing or two (million) about food. The Cutthroat Kitchen host is known for treating cooking like science (nitrus oxide cold brew, anyone?), and his vast culinary knowledge makes his recipes that much more desirable. These are 23 standout recipes either adapted from or directly from the chef, from basic guacamole to next-level crème brulée.
Meghan Markle's the Prettiest Bride We've Ever Seen
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been dating less than a year, but it seems like their relationship is serious. The Suits actress has already met Prince Harry's father, traveled to Kensington Palace to see Kate Middleton, and vacationed in Norway with her SO. There are even speculations that Prince Harry thinks Meghan's "the one." Naturally, their cute courtship has everyone wondering when the two will get married and, most importantly, what Meghan's dress will look like.
We've got a pretty good idea. For fans who watch her hit TV series Suits, you'll remember Meghan's character Rachel Zane in a wedding gown by Anne Barge. The embellished design and v-neck details flattered the star's petite silhouette and she was basically a blushing onscreen bride. If she were to marry Prince Harry, we could totally see Meghan wearing a similar dress, but perhaps her creation IRL would be a bit more modest. Maybe with sleeves like Kate Middleton's?
All we know for sure is that Meghan makes for a gorgeous bride, so Prince Harry has nothing to worry about. Read on for a glimpse of Meghan in her wedding dress, then shop similar options ahead.
4 Women Ed Sheeran Has Let Into His Sensitive and Beautiful Soul
Ed Sheeran is everywhere right now. The singer released his new album, Divide, in early March, and hits like "Shape of You," "Galway Girl," and "Perfect" are already tearing up the charts. While we can't get enough of his professional life, his return to the spotlight has also made us curious about his personal life. Ed is currently dating his childhood friend Cherry Seaborn, whom he met in high school. "I've never been happier. I've never been more comfortable. I've never been more inspired," he said during a recent radio interview. "I feel like everything's fallen into place." But before Ed found his happy ending in Cherry, there were a few other women that caught his attention. Keep reading to see who Ed has dated over the years.
4 Women Ed Sheeran Has Let Into His Sensitive and Beautiful Soul
Ed Sheeran is everywhere right now. The singer released his new album, Divide, in early March, and hits like "Shape of You," "Galway Girl," and "Perfect" are already tearing up the charts. While we can't get enough of his professional life, his return to the spotlight has also made us curious about his personal life. Ed is currently dating his childhood friend Cherry Seaborn, whom he met in high school. "I've never been happier. I've never been more comfortable. I've never been more inspired," he said during a recent radio interview. "I feel like everything's fallen into place." But before Ed found his happy ending in Cherry, there were a few other women that caught his attention. Keep reading to see who Ed has dated over the years.
Aww, New Love! The Sweetest Photos of Demi Lovato and BF Guilherme Vasconcelos
Demi Lovato finally confirmed her relationship with MMA fighter Guilherme "Bomba" Vasconcelos during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, so now we can officially obsess over their adorable photos together.
Guilherme, who is a Brazilian martial arts expert, might be tough on the rink (as is Demi; have you seen her boxing moves?), but on Intagram he melts over his talented girlfriend, posting sweet photos together going all the way back to 2016, when the couple first started dating on and off. With heart emoji captions and sweet cuddles, Demi and Guilherme are showing us what true love looks like. Scroll ahead to see their best pictures.
An 'essential medicines' list could ensure all Canadians have access to the drugs they need
A short list of medicines could actually help us save money by focusing competition on a small number of products, purchased in larger quantities.
An 'essential medicines' list could ensure all Canadians have access to the drugs they need
A short list of medicines could actually help us save money by focusing competition on a small number of products, purchased in larger quantities.
Your Beauty Regimen Just Got an Enchanting Upgrade Thanks to This Beauty and the Beast Collection
Ahead of the release of Beauty and the Beast on March 17, we're finding more and more ways to let the enchanting Disney story inundate our lives. First came the Gelish nail polish collection, then rumors about a Beauty and the Beast-inspired L'Oréal collection, and now we're feeding our Belle obsession with news of this HSN beauty collection.
The HSN Beauty and the Beast Collection features 13 products, including adorable velvet makeup cases, a pro gel nail kit, a timeless perfume and body butter, and (our personal favorite!) a book clutch filled with makeup brushes, all honoring our favorite characters. The best part about the collection is that it's all available now on the HSN website. They will also be unveiled on TV on March 15, ahead of the movie's premiere.
Keep reading to see all the products and fulfill your Disney dreams by purchasing now.
Do This Every Day to Lose Weight (20 Pounds in 6 Months!)
No matter how you feel about the weighing yourself, Dietitian Julie Upton, MS, RD, of Appetite For Health, shares details from a new study on how the scale can help with weight loss.
According to a first-of-its-kind study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, researchers from Duke University Obesity Prevention Program reported that those who weighed themselves daily lost about three times as much weight and body fat, compared to those stepped on the scale less frequently.
The Duke obesity researchers enrolled 47 overweight men and women into a weight loss clinical trial that used electronic scales that were networked to the researchers' computer network. All subjects were instructed to weigh in daily and were given some basic advice about healthy eating and exercise behaviors (i.e., increase water consumption, walk more, eat fewer snacks, enjoy more fruits/veggies).
Using data from the subjects' escales, the researchers could objectively track the frequency of weigh-ins as well as the actual weights recorded. Previous studies have relied on subjects' self-reported information about weigh-ins, which is considered less reliable.
After six months, the researchers evaluated both body weight and composition of all subjects and found that those who weighed in daily (51 percent of all subjects) lost an average of 20 pounds, compared to about seven pounds lost among those who weighed themselves about five days per week. Subjects who weighed themselves daily were also more likely to report following through on more healthy diet and lifestyle behaviors.
The authors concluded: "Daily weighing may trigger the self-regulatory processes that promote behavior change. Those who weigh daily report greater adoption of diet and exercise behaviors associated with weight control."
This study adds to previous studies that also reported that those who weigh themselves more frequently lose more weight and are less likely to gain weight over time. As a dietitian, I've always been hesitant to recommend getting obsessed with the number on the scale, but newer studies suggest that it's important to keep tabs on your body weight so that you can alter behaviors when you notice small increases in weight gain. It's a lot easier to lose three or five pounds than it is to lose 20 or more, so frequent weigh-ins are one way to keep your weight stable for a lifetime.
Do This Every Day to Lose Weight (20 Pounds in 6 Months!)
No matter how you feel about the weighing yourself, Dietitian Julie Upton, MS, RD, of Appetite For Health, shares details from a new study on how the scale can help with weight loss.
According to a first-of-its-kind study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, researchers from Duke University Obesity Prevention Program reported that those who weighed themselves daily lost about three times as much weight and body fat, compared to those stepped on the scale less frequently.
The Duke obesity researchers enrolled 47 overweight men and women into a weight loss clinical trial that used electronic scales that were networked to the researchers' computer network. All subjects were instructed to weigh in daily and were given some basic advice about healthy eating and exercise behaviors (i.e., increase water consumption, walk more, eat fewer snacks, enjoy more fruits/veggies).
Using data from the subjects' escales, the researchers could objectively track the frequency of weigh-ins as well as the actual weights recorded. Previous studies have relied on subjects' self-reported information about weigh-ins, which is considered less reliable.
After six months, the researchers evaluated both body weight and composition of all subjects and found that those who weighed in daily (51 percent of all subjects) lost an average of 20 pounds, compared to about seven pounds lost among those who weighed themselves about five days per week. Subjects who weighed themselves daily were also more likely to report following through on more healthy diet and lifestyle behaviors.
The authors concluded: "Daily weighing may trigger the self-regulatory processes that promote behavior change. Those who weigh daily report greater adoption of diet and exercise behaviors associated with weight control."
This study adds to previous studies that also reported that those who weigh themselves more frequently lose more weight and are less likely to gain weight over time. As a dietitian, I've always been hesitant to recommend getting obsessed with the number on the scale, but newer studies suggest that it's important to keep tabs on your body weight so that you can alter behaviors when you notice small increases in weight gain. It's a lot easier to lose three or five pounds than it is to lose 20 or more, so frequent weigh-ins are one way to keep your weight stable for a lifetime.
The 9 Pieces Every Fashion Girl Has in Her Closet Right Now
Fashion girls just seem to have a way of always looking put together no matter what the situation - something we all aspire to. Who doesn't want to look chic all the time? But a great look almost never happens by accident. There's always some strategy involved, no matter who - and how stylish - you are. It all boils down to having the right pieces.
As fashion month nears it's conclusion, we're investigating what the most stylish women in the world are currently keeping in their wardrobe arsenals. Scroll on for your very own street style cheat sheet and the nine items you should definitely have in your closet right now.
21 Bold Kate Middleton Outfits That Probably Weren't Queen Approved
Based on her track record, it may be hard to believe Kate ever donned something that could raise eyebrows, but every once in a while we've caught her ditching her sophisticated brand of dressing for something a little more casual. From outings in lazy-day hoodies to laid-back blue jeans, we love seeing proof that sometimes Kate can mix it up.
While we may love Kate's foray into casualwear, we have a feeling the Queen wouldn't approve of these not-so-princessy pieces. Just try to imagine Queen Elizabeth donning the same sporty separates, sneakers, or funky hats - we all know, it just wouldn't happen. So while we're under the impression that it's basically impossible for Kate to wear a bad outfit, it's fun to imagine how the royals really felt when they saw these, ahem, nontraditional styles.
11 People in Kate Middleton's Top-Secret Squad
When the Duchess of Cambridge isn't running after Prince George and Princess Charlotte, enjoying a quiet night in with Prince William, or catching up with her family, who does she choose to spend her time with? So much of her life is up for public consumption, but her friends are usually kept firmly out of the spotlight. Glossier than the posters in a hair salon window, more fiercely protective than big cats with cubs, and more interwoven than 1,000-thread-count Egyptian cotton - we bring you the lowdown on Kate's top-secret friendship group.
11 People in Kate Middleton's Top-Secret Squad
When the Duchess of Cambridge isn't running after Prince George and Princess Charlotte, enjoying a quiet night in with Prince William, or catching up with her family, who does she choose to spend her time with? So much of her life is up for public consumption, but her friends are usually kept firmly out of the spotlight. Glossier than the posters in a hair salon window, more fiercely protective than big cats with cubs, and more interwoven than 1,000-thread-count Egyptian cotton - we bring you the lowdown on Kate's top-secret friendship group.
Here Are Your Favorite Dances From The Fitness Marshall, All in 1 Place
So we're in on your secret - we know you love The Fitness Marshall as much as we do! We've been sweating and laughing and shaking our booties to his fun dances for about a year now, so we wanted to highlight the memories - and the sweat sessions - that made all of us smile the most.
These are your favorite, most hilarious, most watched, most fun videos from The Fitness Marshall - get a three-minute workout in or combine all of these for a 36-minute session (and yes, there are two Britney Spears songs in here!). And be sure to read to the end to see your absolute, can't-live-without video.
Andrea Lost 30 Pounds in 10 Months and Here's How She Keeps It Off
When Andrea decided she was ready to lose weight, she knew it was time to finally do it the right way. She teamed up with Ricki Friedman, founder of Break the Weight, an online coaching program that helps individuals break what weighs them down physically and mentally.
Andrea said, "I've tried to lose weight before, but working with Ricki made me realize that it wasn't just about the weight, it was about the habits that surrounded it. That's what I needed to understand better."
Andrea Before
The program teaches people how to transform their daily habits and their lifestyle by focusing on the power of being consistent with and accountable for the choices they make. This isn't about being on a diet; it's about being in the driver's seat of your own life.
In 10 months, Andrea lost 30 pounds not just by reducing how much she ate and increasing her movement, but by looking at food as fuel and connecting to her hunger levels instead of just eating for no reason. After the initial 10 months, Andrea has since used the tools from the program to keep the weight off. She also credits the emotional support and accountability of her coach that kept her going. Andrea said, "Ricki made sure I was consistent with my simple daily changes and held me accountable to stick with it even when I felt bored or unmotivated. That was key for me."
Andrea's Diet and Workout Plan
Andrea said that her typical day of eating consists of around 1,400 to 1,500 calories and mostly three meals and two snacks. She sticks to foods that make me her feel good and give her energy throughout the day.
Breakfast: Two eggs and two egg whites with half an avocado
Snack: Apple and one tablespoon peanut butter
Lunch: Greek salad with five ounces of chicken and olive oil for dressing
Snack: One cup Greek yogurt with a handful of almonds and walnuts
Dinner: Big veggie stir-fry with grilled shrimp and ice cream bar for dessert
Physical activity also plays a huge role in her success. Besides walking 10,000 steps a day, Andrea stays consistent and committed to her exercise routine, saying, "I work out five days a week for about an hour for my mental and physical health. It keeps me clear-headed and helps me make healthier choices."
Andrea After
Andrea admitted, "I did crash diets . . . a lot. I would lose the weight, then gain it all back and then some when the diet was over. It's a lifestyle now for me. It's all about balance and understanding why you make certain choices." Ricki agreed, "People need to approach change, especially when it comes to weight loss with the understanding that it's so much more. It's never just about the weight."
The biggest change she made? Andrea said, "Understanding that this was a lifestyle change and that being consistent with what I ate and how much I moved was a huge part of my success. That helped me take the pressure off losing weight because it became so much more than that."
The biggest piece of advice Andrea offered to others on this journey is, "Always move forward. Even when you feel off track or have a bad day or week. Remember this isn't a diet, so you don't need to punish yourself. Forgive, learn, and move on."
This Genius Stoplight Workout Will Burn Major Calories
Ever wished you could make the most out of your city runs? Now you can. Instead of standing at the corner waiting for the light to change, use that time to continue the workout. Whether it's lunges, standing elbow-to-knee raises, or arm dips, say goodbye to idly waiting at the corner for the light to change.
We've partnered with adidas Running to help you maximize your workouts so you can work harder and get greater on every run.
Here Are Your Favorite Dances From The Fitness Marshall, All in 1 Place
So we're in on your secret - we know you love The Fitness Marshall as much as we do! We've been sweating and laughing and shaking our booties to his fun dances for about a year now, so we wanted to highlight the memories - and the sweat sessions - that made all of us smile the most.
These are your favorite, most hilarious, most watched, most fun videos from The Fitness Marshall - get a three-minute workout in or combine all of these for a 36-minute session (and yes, there are two Britney Spears songs in here!). And be sure to read to the end to see your absolute, can't-live-without video.
Andrea Lost 30 Pounds in 10 Months and Here's How She Keeps It Off
When Andrea decided she was ready to lose weight, she knew it was time to finally do it the right way. She teamed up with Ricki Friedman, founder of Break the Weight, an online coaching program that helps individuals break what weighs them down physically and mentally.
Andrea said, "I've tried to lose weight before, but working with Ricki made me realize that it wasn't just about the weight, it was about the habits that surrounded it. That's what I needed to understand better."
Andrea Before
The program teaches people how to transform their daily habits and their lifestyle by focusing on the power of being consistent with and accountable for the choices they make. This isn't about being on a diet; it's about being in the driver's seat of your own life.
In 10 months, Andrea lost 30 pounds not just by reducing how much she ate and increasing her movement, but by looking at food as fuel and connecting to her hunger levels instead of just eating for no reason. After the initial 10 months, Andrea has since used the tools from the program to keep the weight off. She also credits the emotional support and accountability of her coach that kept her going. Andrea said, "Ricki made sure I was consistent with my simple daily changes and held me accountable to stick with it even when I felt bored or unmotivated. That was key for me."
Andrea's Diet and Workout Plan
Andrea said that her typical day of eating consists of around 1,400 to 1,500 calories and mostly three meals and two snacks. She sticks to foods that make me her feel good and give her energy throughout the day.
Breakfast: Two eggs and two egg whites with half an avocado
Snack: Apple and one tablespoon peanut butter
Lunch: Greek salad with five ounces of chicken and olive oil for dressing
Snack: One cup Greek yogurt with a handful of almonds and walnuts
Dinner: Big veggie stir-fry with grilled shrimp and ice cream bar for dessert
Physical activity also plays a huge role in her success. Besides walking 10,000 steps a day, Andrea stays consistent and committed to her exercise routine, saying, "I work out five days a week for about an hour for my mental and physical health. It keeps me clear-headed and helps me make healthier choices."
Andrea After
Andrea admitted, "I did crash diets . . . a lot. I would lose the weight, then gain it all back and then some when the diet was over. It's a lifestyle now for me. It's all about balance and understanding why you make certain choices." Ricki agreed, "People need to approach change, especially when it comes to weight loss with the understanding that it's so much more. It's never just about the weight."
The biggest change she made? Andrea said, "Understanding that this was a lifestyle change and that being consistent with what I ate and how much I moved was a huge part of my success. That helped me take the pressure off losing weight because it became so much more than that."
The biggest piece of advice Andrea offered to others on this journey is, "Always move forward. Even when you feel off track or have a bad day or week. Remember this isn't a diet, so you don't need to punish yourself. Forgive, learn, and move on."
This Genius Stoplight Workout Will Burn Major Calories
Ever wished you could make the most out of your city runs? Now you can. Instead of standing at the corner waiting for the light to change, use that time to continue the workout. Whether it's lunges, standing elbow-to-knee raises, or arm dips, say goodbye to idly waiting at the corner for the light to change.
We've partnered with adidas Running to help you maximize your workouts so you can work harder and get greater on every run.
This "That's What I Like" Dance Routine Might Blow Bruno Mars Out of the Water
We haven't been able to get "That's What I Like" out of our heads since Bruno Mars released it earlier this year, and watching this impressive dance routine is only going to make that harder. Choreographers (and couple) Janelle Ginestra and Willdabeast Adams recently shared a video of the song performed first by themselves and then by incredibly talented dancers of all ages - and while Bruno himself happens to be one hell of a dancer, this group's moves give him a run for his money. Strap yourself in and watch the 11-minute video now, then see Bruno's best moves in GIF form.
Breaking Down the Truly Gruesome End of The Belko Experiment
Spoilers for The Belko Experiment below.
The Belko Experiment first popped up on our radar with its graphic, gory trailer, and we can confirm that the movie is just as brutally horrifying as promised. The long-simmering project from Guardians of the Galaxy's James Gunn draws heavy inspiration from director Kinji Fukasaku's Battle Royale, but its lack of profundity or satire (or rather, enough satire) makes it a truly grueling hour and a half to endure. If you'd rather skip 90 minutes of exploding heads and Tony Goldwyn acting less like President Fitzgerald Grant and more like Carl Bruner (classic Ghost reference), we're here to break it down for you.
So What's the Deal?
Belko Industries employee Mike Milch (John Gallagher Jr., who deserves better than this) arrives at his remote office building in rural Bogotá, Colombia, only to see a new fleet of security guards turning all the local non-English-speaking Colombians away at the gate. He - like girlfriend Leandra (Adria Arjona), boss Barry (Goldwyn), and everyone else at the vaguely defined nonprofit - has been there for a little over a year. It's new employee Dany's (Melonie Diaz) first day on the job, and it's explained to her that every Belko employee is implanted with a tracker at the back of their skull, just in case they're ever kidnapped.
With the local staff gone, the 80 employees left at the office go about their day as usual, but before long, armored, impenetrable metal walls and doors cover the building, locking them in. A mysterious voice comes on the intercom to announce that they need to kill two of their fellow employees or people will start being killed randomly. They assume it's some kind of prank and largely ignore the instructions, which results in a few peoples' heads exploding throughout the building thanks to the bombs inside their trackers. The remaining employees think it's from sniper fire at first, but Mike figures out what's causing the explosions and locks himself in the bathroom to try to cut out his tracker with a box cutter. The voice immediately comes back and tells him he has 10 seconds to stop, otherwise they'll kill him, too.
From there, the group is told that if they don't kill 30 employees within the next two hours, the voice will kill 60 of them. This splits the group into two factions; one led by Mike and one by Barry. Mike doesn't think they should kill anyone, because it's 1.) horrific, and 2.) does anyone really think the voice will let people survive this after what they've seen? Barry, under the guise of needing to survive so he can provide for his family, brings a handful of men over to his side, saying they need to follow the rules and kill 30 people for the sake of the rest of the group. Mike, Leandra, and the rest of their group attempt to hang big banners over the side of the building to catch the attention of people driving by, but soldiers with machine guns outside start shooting and the plan is abandoned. Unfortunately, Barry and his group get their hands on a stash of guns and order everyone down to the lobby to decide who is going to die.
Barry, with the help of his psychotic, perverted henchman Wendell (John C. McGinley), rounds up a group of 30 people to stand against a lobby wall (mostly the oldest employees, as well as the ones without children) and begins executing them. Thankfully, Dany (who's been hiding in the basement this whole time) cuts the lights before Mike is shot. People flee in all directions while Barry and Wendell continue to hunt them down, but the voice comes back on the intercom to announce only 29 people were murdered. Heads start exploding in every direction, leaving only a few of the group left. Once that culling is complete, the voice says that of the remaining group, whoever has the highest number of kills by the end of the day will be allowed to walk out of the building alive. Barry goes on an all-out killing spree while Leandra kills Wendell (who had been creepily hitting on her earlier). Stoner Marty (Sean Gunn) collects the un-exploded bombs from the heads of people who die in other ways in a napkin, which Mike puts in his pocket after Marty dies.
Leandra and Mike hide from Barry (the only other person left alive at this point) in a filing cabinet, but Leandra bleeds out from a gunshot wound in her chest. When she dies, it gives Mike - who had yet to resort to Barry's level of violence - the push he needs to attack Barry. He bashes Barry's brains in with a heavy tape dispenser. The metal barricades covering the windows and doors lift since Mike is the single remaining Belko employee, and he's escorted by soldiers out of the building to a warehouse next door. The Voice (Gregg Henry) introduces himself as a social scientist who believes researches need to see people in extreme environments to truly make discoveries about human nature.
They try to ask him a series of questions about how he feels and his emotional state, but Mike, furious and disbelieving, only cares about the large panel behind The Voice covered in switches that correspond to each one of the 80 Belko employees. It turns out Mike planted the leftover bombs on The Voice and the soldiers as he was being dragged into the warehouse, so he runs forward and flips all of the switches but his own. The soldiers and The Voice die, and Mike walks out into the sunlight, shocked. The camera pans out, revealing that Mike is actually being watched by another group who also has security footage monitors showing hundreds of other sole survivors of similar experiments.
Does That Mean a Sequel Is in the Works?
The ending, underwhelming and anticlimactic as it is, does set up The Belko Experiment for a second installment. Many of the actors pull out great performances despite stilted material and a bloated amount of unnecessary violence, so if Gunn can create a premise that's just as terrifying and thought-provoking but actually delivers, it could save a sequel from becoming straight-to-DVD fare. In an interview with Complex, the writer revealed he's "absolutely" open to the idea of a continuation of this story. "I have a very good idea about where Belko goes from here and how the experiment would continue and if we're lucky enough to make a few bucks and the audience would like to see a sequel," he said, "I think that would be something that we'd be very willing to give them."
This Video Showing the 13 Types of Salsa Dancers You Can Be Will Make You LOL
Some will say that Latinos are born with an innate ability to salsa, but if that's totally untrue for you or if you're interested in a refresher course on all the different things you could be doing on the dance floor, we have good news. YouTuber Emmanuel Lopez of the Emmanuel Lopez Show has broken down each type of salsa dancer - from el tornado to el enamorado - in one easy-to-follow video that will certainly rev up your skills and make you laugh out loud. Ready to master the Latin favorite like Selena Gomez? Press play above to watch Emmanuel's animated demonstrations (with quick tips for each). Then, turn up our curated playlist and try them out!
This post was originally published on Aug. 12, 2016.
Couple Wed Early to Share Their Special Day With Their Dying Newborn Son
One couple from North Carolina decided to get married at a hospice so that their 1-month-old son, Conner, who was born with a rare genetic disorder known as Trisomy 18, could be by their side when they said "I do!" Conner's father, Christopher Armstrong, explained his son's condition to CBS affiliate WFMY. "Basically he has an extra eighteenth chromosome. It has more internal effects," Christopher said before revealing that Conner had three holes in his heart.
Babies born with Trisomy 18 have a life-span of less than 1 year, according to the Trisomy 18 Foundation. Doctors told Conner's parents that time was not on their side. "We were told we didn't have much time left with Conner," Christopher shared. "So we wanted him to be [at the wedding]." The couple quickly arranged to have their special day take place sooner rather than later.
Conner's mother, Patrica, told WFMY that she and Christopher had no regrets about having her wedding at the hospice where Conner was being taken care of. "It's been scary," Patricia admitted. "It's been emotional, but it's well worth it," The loving parents were able to take their vows together in front of their family and Conner before his untimely death. Conner passed away three days after the wedding ceremony.
In a Facebook post, Patricia expressed her gratitude for being able to give Conner "a chance to live, love and be loved", writing, "Conner was truly heaven sent and we don't regret allowing him to have a chance at life. He was loved by so many and always will. We love you Conner Alexander Armstrong."
Conner's father also expressed his love for his son in a touching Facebook post, writing, "We cherish every minute we got to spend with you and everyone who was blessed to meet you are so grateful. We love you and you will never be forgotten.. until we meet again"
20 Photos of Camila Alves and Her Kids That Might Make Your Heart Explode
When she's not showing off her gorgeous style or working on her empowering lifestyle blog, Camila Alves is doing one of the hardest jobs ever: parenting.
The Brazilian beauty is a proud mom to 7-year-old daughter Vida and sons Levi, 8, and Livingston, 4 - whose handsome father is Camila's Oscar-winning husband, Matthew McConaughey - and, just like the rest of us, Camila loves to share her precious family moments on Instagram, from her daughter's at-home pedicure skills to travel photos. Her little ones are beyond adorable - keep reading for a glimpse at all their sweetest snaps.
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