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.
jeudi 30 mars 2017
See Every Single Magical Shade and Swatch of Urban Decay's Unicorn Lipstick Topcoats
Game over, Urban Decay! While holographic "unicorn" lip glosses and metallic topcoats have already begun to spread through the market, UD just launched a showstopping set. Yesterday, we dropped the news that the brand created Vice Special Effects Lip Topcoats, and today we have the exclusive first look at all 12 shades, swatches, and the campaign images featuring Ruby Rose.
The colors are a dizzying array of blue, purple, green, white, and pink metallics with every type of iridescent, glittery infusion you can imagine. It's definitely - to borrow a phrase from UD - beauty with an edge. We imagine Wende Zomnir and crew watching the previous unicorn lipstick populate Instagram, thinking, "We can own this game." So they did. The result is your naughty night-out essential set. No-makeup makeup girls, proceed with caution.
Here's what we can tell you about the Vice Special Effects Lip Topcoat formula: it's a longwear and water-resistant (like many of UD's products) gel-cream formula. I'm pretty sensitive to dehydrating lip products, and this felt comfortable. This is due to nourishing marine collagen being a key ingredient.
The topcoat is meant to be a shade shifter and transform and lock in whatever color is underneath it. The flexible skinny applicator allowed me to easily line my pout before I filled it in. Because it dries down so fast, you don't have to worry about glitter particles falling all over your face. It didn't get on my coffee cup when I took a sip. It's like glitter lips for dummies.
Keep reading to see all 12 magical shades, swatches, and a sexy Ruby Rose in the campaign before it's available for $18 a pop on March 23 at urbandecay.com and on March 31 at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and select Macy's stores.
This post was originally published on March 3, 2017.
"Quiet Rooms" and 3 Other New Legoland Upgrades For Guests With Autism
One Legoland park is on a mission to create a more enjoyable and welcoming experience for all kids and families. Legoland Florida Resort recently debuted a variety of exciting new initiatives and features specifically made to assist guests with autism spectrum disorders. Since 2016, the Winter Haven amusement park has been working with the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks to learn more about the needs of people with autism and their caregivers.
Together, the two crafted four exciting upgrades for the park, which are outlined below and in Legoland's official press release.
Social Stories
In order to prevent guests from being startled by loud noises, bright lights, or other surprising elements inside park attractions, Legoland now offers an illustrated, step-by-step walkthrough of every ride and show. Families can view these "stories" at Guest Services before planning out their journey through the resort.
Quiet Rooms
There are now designated quiet spaces in the resort's Annual Pass, First Aid, and Baby Care facilities. These rooms are equipped with squishy toys, noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, and of course, Lego-building tables. If guests need to take five to recharge, these quiet rooms are there to help.
The Blue Hero Pass
For park guests who have a hard time waiting in long lines, this pass allows a group to skip the standby line at the resort's popular attractions. Guests can find these passes for free at Guest Services.
Specialized Employee Training
From now on, all new Legoland hires (who are referred to as "Model Citizens") must go through specialized training to teach them skills for effectively communicating with guests on the autism spectrum.
Scarlett Johansson's Latest Appearance Will Make You Say, "OK, Whoa"
We hope the red carpet at Wednesday night's premiere of Ghost in the Shell had some fire extinguishers handy, because Scarlett Johansson basically lit the place on fire. The actress, who stars in the remake of the iconic Japanese anime film, attended the New York City premiere looking all kinds of gorgeous. After arriving at AMC's Lincoln Square Theater with her twin brother, Hunter, the actress posed for photos on the carpet in a stunning rainbow dress. Despite her recent split from her husband of two years, Romain Dauriac, the mother of daughter Rose seems to be doing just fine.
Majority of middle-aged Canadians not using condoms, survey suggests
When it comes to safe sex, a new study suggests middle-aged Canadians have something to learn from the younger generation.
Majority of middle-aged Canadians not using condoms, survey suggests
When it comes to safe sex, a new study suggests middle-aged Canadians have something to learn from the younger generation.
Scarlett Johansson's Latest Appearance Will Make You Say, "OK, Whoa"
We hope the red carpet at Wednesday night's premiere of Ghost in the Shell had some fire extinguishers handy, because Scarlett Johansson basically lit the place on fire. The actress, who stars in the remake of the iconic Japanese anime film, attended the New York City premiere looking all kinds of gorgeous. After arriving at AMC's Lincoln Square Theater with her twin brother, Hunter, the actress posed for photos on the carpet in a stunning rainbow dress. Despite her recent split from her husband of two years, Romain Dauriac, the mother of daughter Rose seems to be doing just fine.
30 New Foods You'd Be Crazy Not to Try This Year
With a new year comes new foods, including a wide variety of new artisanal products you'll want to look out for in stores and online. Hundreds of food companies showcased their best new products at San Francisco's Winter Fancy Food Show in January, and we tried them all so that you don't have to. From small-batch chocolate bars to flavored marshmallows and "chips" made of beans, there are more snack options than ever in 2017. We're bringing you only the best of the best so that you know what items really deserve a place in your shopping cart this year. Behold, the 30 best new foods you'd be crazy not to try this year.
- Additional reporting by Anna Monette Roberts
Kendall Jenner Is Pushing Her Wardrobe Into Full Throttle
It's time to rev your engines, because Instagram's favorite It girls are putting the pedal to the metal with their outfits. We've been noticing what we like to call the race-car effect with celebs like Sofia Richie, Hailey Baldwin, and Kendall Jenner giving this trend a test drive.
Kendall Jenner posted a picture of herself in a pair of striped moto pants from designer Unravel Project while gal pal Hailey Baldwin followed suit in a bright red Ferrari jacket from the sustainable shop Sami Miro Vintage. Sofia Richie also shifted gears by wearing a head-to-toe look from the fashion brand Each x Other. Each of their looks is worthy of first prize and deserves to be seen outside of a Formula One racetrack.
Check out their looks and push your wardrobe into full throttle by buying a couple of race-car-inspired looks for yourself.
These Are the Ethereal (Affordable!) Succulent Hair Accessories of Your Wedding Dreams
As a bride-to-be, I can attest that there are two things we all focus on: keeping a budget and being different. One way to make a statement without affecting your banking statement is by swatching traditional hair flowers for succulents. What's more: succulents are less likely to wilt than flowers so they'll stay fresh from morning photos until your afterparty.
Unsurprisingly, Etsy is a goldmine for creative succulent-infused hair pieces. We're loving the accessories from Eucca since the pieces look well-crafted and the prices range from $17 to $48.
Keep reading to see five gorgeous succulent wedding hair pieces for brides, 'maids, and MOHs.
Spoiler Alert! What Happens at the End of the Big Little Lies Book
It's been weeks since the Big Little Lies miniseries premiered on HBO, and we're still buzzing about the show's central mystery: who died, and who's the killer? The show stays mostly faithful to Liane Moriarty's novel of the same name, but there are still a few big differences to both the general plot and the characters. Could the ending be one of them? The final episode airs on Sunday, and we have a feeling that the characters at the heart of the novel's mystery will be the same ones in the TV adaptation as well. If you've yet to finish Moriarty's suspenseful novel, you might want to turn back now, because spoilers abound.
MAJOR SPOILERS for the end of the Big Little Lies novel below!
Let's get to the basics first, shall we? The book begins by introducing its first mystery right off the bat. Various parents of students at Pirriwee Public School are giving statements to detectives about an incident that occurred during a trivia night fundraiser at the school; someone died, but no one seems to know who did it or how it really happened (although they have plenty of catty ideas about who might have committed the crime). Then, we go back in time to six months before the trivia night to meet young, mild-mannered single mom Jane, who moves to the small, charming town of Pirriwee on the Australian coast with her son, Ziggy. She enrolls him at Pirriwee Public, which is where she's befriended by fellow kindergarten moms Madeline and Celeste. On orientation day Ziggy is accused of trying to strangle a little girl in his class, Amabella, which Ziggy adamantly denies, setting into motion another big mystery: if it's not Ziggy, who is the true culprit behind Amabella's bullying?
The third mystery also concerns Ziggy. In a vulnerable moment, Jane reveals to Madeline that her son was conceived years earlier during a drunken, violent one-night stand that went incredibly awry. The man was charming at first and introduced himself as Saxon Banks. When they got to the hotel room, however, he began calling her awful names while they had sex, and the situation quickly devolved into something much more abusive. Jane later admits that the reason she uprooted her life to Pirriwee was because on the night she met him, he told her he might be moving there soon. She'd hoped that one day she could confront him for what he'd done in person, but unfortunately she was never able to find a man by the name of Saxon Banks living there.
Meanwhile, Celeste, a former-lawyer-turned-stay-at-home-mom, is married to successful businessman Perry and they have a seemingly perfect life. They're both Hollywood levels of attractive, rich beyond belief, and parents to rambunctious twin boys, Max and Josh (who go to school with Ziggy). Although they're the envy of everyone in Pirriwee, Celeste is hiding an awful secret: Perry physically abuses her (but never in the face, so she can hide the bruises). The night of the trivia fundraiser, Josh comes to his mother and tells her that Max, not Ziggy, is the one who's been bullying Amabella (and another little girl, Skye) at school, because he picked up on what his father was doing. Celeste, crippled with guilt, vows to tell Jane as soon as she and Perry arrive at the fundraiser. Just before they walk inside the school, Perry discovers that Celeste is planning to leave him and take the twins with her and starts to seethe with anger.
Inside the trivia night, the parents are all drunk because the event's food never arrived and begin fighting among each other. Madeline, Ed (her husband), Jane, Renata, Bonnie, and Nathan (Nathan is Madeline's ex-husband, and Bonnie is his new wife) all step outside on the school's balcony for a breather, when Celeste and Perry join them. Jane, laying eyes on Celeste's husband for the first time, realizes that he is Saxon Banks (Perry used his cousin's name on the night he assaulted her). She confronts him and he brushes her off, prompting Celeste to yell at him. He immediately smacks Celeste hard across the face in front of everyone, much to their horror. Bonnie, who grew up with an extremely abusive father, starts screaming about how Perry is the reason why Max has been bullying Amabella and Skye (her daughter) and pushes him backward out of anger. Because of the slippery floor on the balcony and the height of the railing behind him, Perry tumbles backward and falls to his death.
Right as this happens, a fight between a few dads in the other room comes crashing out onto the balcony, knocking into Jane and Madeline, leaving them with badly broken bones. Celeste begins to scream, and that's when the police are called to come handle the situation at Pirriwee Public. Madeline, Jane, Renata, Celeste, and Nathan initially agree to cover for Bonnie, saying that were all looking the other way and didn't see her push Perry, but eventually she confesses to the police herself and is given a few hundred hours of community service as punishment. Celeste moves away from Pirriwee with her boys, but sets up a generous trust fund for Ziggy with Perry's money.
Pretty dramatic, huh? Although the show has gone in a few different directions than the book, we have a feeling it will totally live up to its source material's ending.
All the New Faces You'll See in Fifty Shades Freed
There's one final movie left in E L James's sultry series: Fifty Shades Freed. We're a year out from the third film, but we're already very excited based on the cast. Lots of familiar faces are returning, but there are some new characters appearing for the first time. Take a look at the new actors!
Celine Dion Has Worn Every Damn Color of the Rainbow
Welcome to Celine Dion's style revolution, where the outfits are all sorts of loud. From bold Versace prints to pastel, monochrome looks, Celine is experimenting with every high-fashion designer in the book. Recently, Celine rocked a baby-blue Christian Siriano gown to the premiere of Beauty and the Beast. The modest style featured a strong, structural shoulder piece that elevated the dress. Her new stylist, Law Roach (who also dresses Zendaya), can attest to the star's knowledge about clothes:
"Celine is very into fashion, what's in fashion, what's going on, and who's relevant," Roach explained. "She really knows fashion. She looks at VogueRunway.com and at the magazine, so she knows what's current and she also knows exactly what she likes - and she's fearless," Roach told Vogue.
It made sense then, that Celine will be launching her own accessories line in partnership with Bugatti Group in September. Her bright appearances at Paris Couture Week in 2016 were only the start to a handful of ensembles so vibrant, we just couldn't turn away. Read on to find all the times Celine redefined the meaning of a psychedelic look.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Relationship Is Heating Up: "They're Deeply Happy"
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's high-profile relationship has been under the microscope ever since they first started dating in October 2016, but it seems the couple is handling the pressure with grace. After a PDA-filled trip to a friend's wedding in Jamaica, a source told People that the two couldn't be stronger. "Despite the distance, the media attention and everything else, there's a real ease to their relationship," they revealed. "It just works. They are deeply happy." Although a mention of marriage has yet to be made official, it certainly seems like Prince Harry is in it for the long haul.
Of all the women the 32-year-old has dated, perhaps none of them have been as up to the intimidating process of marrying into the royal family than the 35-year-old Suits actress and activist. "She is incredibly cool and down to earth," the source added. "She has a wonderful warmth to her and a bright smile. It's very easy to see why Harry was so drawn to her." If an anonymous source doesn't convince you, perhaps Meghan's best friend, Lindsay Roth - at whose wedding Meghan served as maid of honor - just might. "We should all strive to handle the ups and downs of our lives as gracefully, smartly, elegantly, positively, realistically and graciously as Meg has," she said of how her friend's adjusted to being in the public eye. "I may be biased, but she deserves everything in the world." Judging from how the pair's relationship has been progressing so far, we can only assume Harry feels the same.
Hand-Pressed Flower Nails Are the Prettiest Accessory For Spring
There's no shortage of creative and pretty nail art inspiration for Spring, but this one tops the lot. Pressed flower nails are our new obsession. Fresh flowers and nail art, what's not to love?
Image Source: 20th Century Fox
In the words of Miranda Priestly of The Devil Wears Prada, these Spring floral might just be "groundbreaking." The trend uses tiny wild flowers, dried and pressed to create the most dainty accessories. A gel base and top coat will ensure the flowers are fully sealed in and won't lift off the nail. Whether all nails end up covered with the tiny petals, or only few petite flowers and gold flakes give minimalist finish, this look is blooming beautiful!
The best part is that you can do it at home. Get out on a Spring walk, and scout out your own tiny flowers to re-create this adorable art. Press them between the pages of a heavy book until they dry out. If you don't have an at-home gel system be sure to use a good quality top coat twice to seal in the flowers onto your nails.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Relationship Is Heating Up: "They're Deeply Happy"
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's high-profile relationship has been under the microscope ever since they first started dating in October 2016, but it seems the couple is handling the pressure with grace. After a PDA-filled trip to a friend's wedding in Jamaica, a source told People that the two couldn't be stronger. "Despite the distance, the media attention and everything else, there's a real ease to their relationship," they revealed. "It just works. They are deeply happy." Although a mention of marriage has yet to be made official, it certainly seems like Prince Harry is in it for the long haul.
Of all the women the 32-year-old has dated, perhaps none of them have been as up to the intimidating process of marrying into the royal family than the 35-year-old Suits actress and activist. "She is incredibly cool and down to earth," the source added. "She has a wonderful warmth to her and a bright smile. It's very easy to see why Harry was so drawn to her." If an anonymous source doesn't convince you, perhaps Meghan's best friend, Lindsay Roth - at whose wedding Meghan served as maid of honor - just might. "We should all strive to handle the ups and downs of our lives as gracefully, smartly, elegantly, positively, realistically and graciously as Meg has," she said of how her friend's adjusted to being in the public eye. "I may be biased, but she deserves everything in the world." Judging from how the pair's relationship has been progressing so far, we can only assume Harry feels the same.
10 Fun Facts About Ayesha Curry That Might Surprise You
In 2015, Stephen Curry stole the spotlight with his NBA MVP regular season title and his part in taking the Golden State Warriors to win the NBA championship for the first time in 40 years. While his basketball skills are undeniable, he also got attention for his adorable family, namely his nearly 4-year-old daughter, Riley, and his wife, Ayesha. Since then, the family has only gotten more popular. Riley is cracking us up with more cute moments, and Ayesha got her own Food Network show and is blowing us away with her dreamy kitchen. But there's even more to her than meets the eye.
This Sassy OBGYN's Pregnancy FAQ Sign Is Damn Near Perfect
When you head into any obstetrician appointment during your pregnancy, you expect to get the chance to ask any burning questions you may have. However, one pregnant woman didn't need to see her doctor to get pretty much all of the answers she needed thanks to a hysterical sign in her OB's office.
The lighthearted Q&A was shared on Reddit and features some common pregnancy questions - such as: "I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?" - but the responses bring some major humor to what could be a stressful time. From explaining that the best time to get an epidural is right after you find out you're pregnant to advising that the one thing to avoid while recovering from birth is another pregnancy, this sassy sign gets it.
10 Fun Facts About Ayesha Curry That Might Surprise You
In 2015, Stephen Curry stole the spotlight with his NBA MVP regular season title and his part in taking the Golden State Warriors to win the NBA championship for the first time in 40 years. While his basketball skills are undeniable, he also got attention for his adorable family, namely his nearly 4-year-old daughter, Riley, and his wife, Ayesha. Since then, the family has only gotten more popular. Riley is cracking us up with more cute moments, and Ayesha got her own Food Network show and is blowing us away with her dreamy kitchen. But there's even more to her than meets the eye.
If The Walking Dead Followed the Comics More Closely, Morgan Would Be Dead
Image Source: AMC
With a name like The Walking Dead, it should come as no surprise that AMC's zombie apocalypse drama features quite a few grisly deaths. In the first half of season seven alone, we saw the tragic murders of Glenn and Abraham, plus two more in the midseason finale - and we're about to see even more carnage in the season finale.
With the comic books serving as source material for the TV show, we have hints about the fates of future characters like the charismatic King Ezekiel and the awful villain Negan. You know what we also have, thanks to the comics? Knowledge of deaths that could've happened but never did. And Morgan is one of them.
Morgan's story plays out in the comic books much like it does in the TV show with a couple tweaks here and there. Rick encounters him in the very first issue and leaves him as he heads into Atlanta. Much like the show, some time passes before they meet again. Rick is leading a group on a supply run to his old police station and Morgan intercepts them. He's gone a bit crazy over the loss of his son and clearly has lost partial grip on reality. Here's where things veer off, just a bit.
As you know, Rick and the gang leave Morgan behind in the TV show. Morgan eventually sets off by himself. He encounters that man who teaches him empathy and those wicked bo staff skills, and then he finds his way to Alexandria by following Rick's trail of clues. In the comic books, Morgan simply goes with the group that second time around and lands in Alexandria anyway. The comic book version of the character still seems to be deeply troubled by his tumultuous experiences, while the TV version seems to have reached a point of zen.
There's one other huge thing to note about Morgan's story. In the comic books, he sleeps with Michonne. He winds up insisting that he's not attracted to Michonne in that way, and he's still just hurting from the loss of his wife. In fact, even though she's long gone, Morgan still feels guilty and like he's committed infidelity. In the TV show, Rick shacks up with Michonne. And this isn't just any fling: they've grown this part of their relationship, they sleep together, and for all intents and purposes, they're a couple.
Image Source: Image Comics
And then there's Morgan's death. As you might recall, there's a point where Alexandria's wall gets breached and the community gets overrun by walkers. While the TV Morgan makes it through this, the comic books aren't quite as forgiving. Morgan gets bitten on the arm, and Michonne quickly amputates it with her katana before the infection spreads. Morgan is taken to the infirmary, and Denise patches him up. Tragically, though, he doesn't survive. During a conversation with Michonne, she realizes he's gone and kills him to stop his walker transformation.
As for the TV show? Morgan is still kicking. At the end of season six, Morgan sets off to follow Carol, who has left Alexandria. The two of them inadvertently end up in the Kingdom, and while Morgan seems to be settling in, Carol is antsy to leave. There are a few small hints that a romance might be blooming between Carol and Morgan. Then again, there are also hints she might end up with King Ezekiel. Only time will tell, but we do know that Morgan has suited up for war in the finale.
Toddler Destroying Raw Eggs When Mom Isn't Looking Is Horrifyingly Hysterical
Despite sometimes wanting a break from toddlers and their antics, most parents know that if your little one is quiet, it usually means they are up to no good. Kristy Herbeck discovered this the hard way when she went to check on what her toddler was doing while she had been in the other room cleaning - and discovered total destruction in the kitchen. Her precious boy had gotten into the refrigerator, knocked down a dozen raw eggs, made scrambled art all over the floor, and created a scene that was just pure hilarity. Between his slipping on the raw yolks multiple times and mom's priceless reaction of "somebody send help … and tacos," this video is gold.
20 Paleta Recipes That'll Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
We impatiently await the arrival of warm weather only to immediately remember that sometimes the heat can be unbearable. But you know what makes everything better? An ice-cold popsicle.
Prepare for the hot days of Spring and Summer ahead with these 20 paletas made with fruit juices, sweets, and even some booze. You'll be slurping on them at cookouts, during picnics, and by the pool. Enjoy!
8 Picture Books to Flip Through Over Spring Break and Beyond
The following is an excerpt from a post featured on Everyday Reading and was written by Janssen Bradshaw, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Moms.
Spring break is over and I'm glad to be getting back into a normal-ish routine.
But one nice thing about Spring break was a little more time to read books, and we went through piles of library books in the last couple of weeks as we enjoyed some more leisurely mornings reading in bed or after lunch.
Let's be honest, I wouldn't mind if it was Spring break for another two weeks.
Whether you're out of school right now or not, these books are perfect for warmer afternoons outdoors or crisp mornings under a snuggly blanket.
If You Ever Want to Bring an Alligator to School, Don't! by Elise Parsley
It starts out innocently. You just want to bring something better than a lame stick or rock for show-and-tell when your teacher requests nature-related items. But an alligator might be a little too much excitement, and when you land in the principal's office because the alligator tried to eat a student and also chewed gum in class and couldn't stop drawing funny pictures while the teacher was trying to teach, you might start to wish you'd brought a nice boring rock instead. Also, Ani memorized most of this book and hearing her recite it was just the best. I wish I'd thought to record it before we returned this library book.
Astronaut Handbook by Meghan McCarthy
I think I requested this one, although I can't remember where it was even recommended to me (my mind, it is a steel trap, obviously). Surprisingly, it's turned into one of my girls' favorite books, and we've read this at least a dozen times since it came home with us from the library. They love the little thigh restraints on the toilet to keep you from floating off the seat, and they really love counting down to blastoff. As for me, it makes me want to read or watch The Martian again.
For six more recommendations on books to flip through with your little one this Spring, visit our friends at Everyday Reading.
The Completely Addictive Method of Cooking Broccoli and Cauliflower
It won't be a challenge to eat your veggies if you try this easy technique for roasting cauliflower and broccoli. For months, a few women in our office have been praising roasted cruciferous veggies. I'm already a huge fan of baked kale chips, roasted brussels sprouts, and oven-crisped cabbage, so I'm not sure why it took me so long to try out roasted cauliflower and broccoli. Now that I have, I'm never going back to the steamed stuff. The oven morphed the little veggie trees into crisp nuggets that could almost pass for chips. They are addictive . . . don't be surprised if those around you fight for the last bites!
Here's what you'll do:
- Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into equally sized pieces.
- Spread across a rimmed sheet tray, leaving space between each floret. Drizzle olive oil across the veggies and salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast in a 400°F oven for 18-23 minutes, or until crispy to your liking.
Celine Dion's Debut Handbags Have the Sweetest Detail You Can't Miss
Celine Dion is growing her empire one handbag at a time. Following the news that she would be launching an accessories range with the Bugatti Group, the undeniable icon unveiled select pieces from the Celine Dion Collection at a press conference in Las Vegas.
According to Women's Wear Daily, Celine reportedly displayed about 70 pieces from her collection at a trade show on Feb. 21. Her entire collection, however, will feature a whopping 200 pieces including backpacks, clutches, wallets, and even tech accessories. As a sentimental addition, Celine designed each bag to have the visual representation of her voice's unique sound wave on the interior. This same visual was repeated in the floor design at her event.
Law Roach, Celine's stylist and a judge on the current season of America's Next Top Model, was also in attendance. In a particularly candid moment, Celine thanked him for transforming her style in the best way she knows how: through song . . . while wearing an amazing ensemble from the Schiaparelli Haute Couture Spring 2017 collection, no less.
Items from the Celine Dion Collection - which range from $78 to $1,998 - won't be officially available until September, however, four pieces will be available on her website on a presale basis. Those presale items are meant to represent four mini collections within her entire range: the Cavatina, Vibrato, Octave, and Pizzicate collections.
Ahead, check out pictures of those items, as well as snaps from the exciting launch event.
All of Selena Gomez's Magazine Spreads Have 1 Thing in Common - They Are SEXY!
There's one thing we know for sure: the camera loves Selena Gomez. The singer and actress (back from her 2016 hiatus) has shown us this time and time again by serving seriously sexy looks and hot poses on the covers of magazines, from Flare to W to Marie Claire to most recently Vogue.
For your viewing pleasure, we've rounded up Selena's best magazine spreads and covers from the past few years. Scroll ahead to see them all.
Your Ultimate Guide to Spring's Biggest Denim Trends
Without a doubt, jeans are the one pair of pants we rely on the most. They're just so damn easy to style and your most worn-in pair is probably super comfortable, too. That's why every season, instead of tossing our denim aside, we continue to add to our collection with new washes and cuts. For Spring, it's all about the hem with finishing touches like fringe and frills. Whether you choose a pair of cropped or high-waisted jeans, you'll find that a special embroidery or hem detail takes them to the next level. Ahead are the seven styles you need to invest in for the season.
P.E.I. widow awarded benefits after husband's death linked to workplace bullying
A P.E.I. woman has won a three-year battle to get benefits after the Workers Compensation Board linked her husband's death to workplace bullying.
P.E.I. widow awarded benefits after husband's death linked to workplace bullying
A P.E.I. woman has won a three-year battle to get benefits after the Workers Compensation Board linked her husband's death to workplace bullying.
Pedestrian deaths in U.S. spike 11% in study, but precise impact of mobile devices unclear
Pedestrian deaths are climbing faster than motorist fatalities, reaching nearly 6,000 deaths last year — the highest total in more than two decades, according to an analysis of preliminary state data released Thursday.
Pedestrian deaths in U.S. spike 11% in study, but precise impact of mobile devices unclear
Pedestrian deaths are climbing faster than motorist fatalities, reaching nearly 6,000 deaths last year — the highest total in more than two decades, according to an analysis of preliminary state data released Thursday.
Watch This Mesmerizing Tool Perfectly Frost a Cake in Mere Seconds
There's something so satisfying about watching someone decorate a cake, especially when the resulting masterpiece has razor-sharp edges like the pros. Think those picture-perfect edges are unattainable? Think again, because one brilliant tool is here to save the day, and it does so in the most mesmerizing way possible. The god-sent gadget in the video above makes it beyond easy to flawlessly smooth out your frosting, scraping away excess sugary spread and revealing clean, smooth sides. The plastic product comes from Three Little Cakes, an award-winning cake-decorating company based in San Francisco, and it's capable of applying frosting to any cake up to eight inches in height.
If you're a perfectionist when it comes to decorating cakes, this device is a must have in your baking arsenal. Watch the captivating video above for a peek at what the genius tool is capable of. And if you're interested in trying it out yourself, the ProFroster is available for purchase online for $25 - a worthy investment, in our book. Messy edges, be gone!
All the Women Tom Hiddleston May or May Not Have Dated
Image Source: Getty / Justin Tallis
Tom Hiddleston caused quite the fan-frenzy when he dated Taylor Swift, and rightfully so. Not only is the British actor quite the heartthrob, but his relationship with the singer marked one of the first times he had ever gone public with a relationship. Actually, his only other confirmed girlfriend was his Wallander costar Susannah Fielding (pictured below). The two dated for a few years but eventually broke up in 2011, when Tom reportedly decided to focus on his career. Following their split, he explained to The Daily Mail, "Acting just demands everything and if you don't give it everything, there will be someone behind you who will."
Image Source: Getty / Michael Tran
He may have kept pretty mum about his love life in the past, but that hasn't stopped the dating rumors from swirling. Over the past few years, the actor has been linked to some very successful ladies, including Sherlock actress Lara Pulver in July 2013 and record producer Jane Arthy at the Wimbledon finals that same month. Even though he was spotted getting cozy with the two women, he was never photographed with them again. He has also been attached to quite a few of his leading ladies; not only did he hold hands with his Thor costar Kat Dennings at Comic-Con in 2010, but he also had undeniable chemistry with Elizabeth Olsen during their press tour for I Saw the Light in 2015. However, Elizabeth quickly shut down the gossip mill by bluntly telling Refinery 29 that they were definitely not dating.
Image Source: Getty / John Shearer
Tom once said in a GQ interview that he'd tell people if he was actually dating anyone, and this certainly proved true with Taylor. Not only did he practically wear his heart on his sleeve during their picture-perfect outings together, but he even shut down conspiracy rumors by stating that they were "not a publicity stunt" back in July. Now that the two have ended their three-month relationship, it looks like Taylor can add her name to Tom's short list of ex-lovers.
All the Women Tom Hiddleston May or May Not Have Dated
Image Source: Getty / Justin Tallis
Tom Hiddleston caused quite the fan-frenzy when he dated Taylor Swift, and rightfully so. Not only is the British actor quite the heartthrob, but his relationship with the singer marked one of the first times he had ever gone public with a relationship. Actually, his only other confirmed girlfriend was his Wallander costar Susannah Fielding (pictured below). The two dated for a few years but eventually broke up in 2011, when Tom reportedly decided to focus on his career. Following their split, he explained to The Daily Mail, "Acting just demands everything and if you don't give it everything, there will be someone behind you who will."
Image Source: Getty / Michael Tran
He may have kept pretty mum about his love life in the past, but that hasn't stopped the dating rumors from swirling. Over the past few years, the actor has been linked to some very successful ladies, including Sherlock actress Lara Pulver in July 2013 and record producer Jane Arthy at the Wimbledon finals that same month. Even though he was spotted getting cozy with the two women, he was never photographed with them again. He has also been attached to quite a few of his leading ladies; not only did he hold hands with his Thor costar Kat Dennings at Comic-Con in 2010, but he also had undeniable chemistry with Elizabeth Olsen during their press tour for I Saw the Light in 2015. However, Elizabeth quickly shut down the gossip mill by bluntly telling Refinery 29 that they were definitely not dating.
Image Source: Getty / John Shearer
Tom once said in a GQ interview that he'd tell people if he was actually dating anyone, and this certainly proved true with Taylor. Not only did he practically wear his heart on his sleeve during their picture-perfect outings together, but he even shut down conspiracy rumors by stating that they were "not a publicity stunt" back in July. Now that the two have ended their three-month relationship, it looks like Taylor can add her name to Tom's short list of ex-lovers.
3 Vital Things We Know About the Virus on The Walking Dead
Now finishing up its seventh season, The Walking Dead is no longer about zombies; it's about human dynamics and how far the living will go to survive. The most poignant deaths are those that come at the hand of another live person, whether it be Carol or Negan delivering the final blow. Sill, it's shocking how little time the characters spend talking about how or why the world is now a vast wasteland of walkers. The only times the origin of the virus or the possibility of stopping it have come up is in the first season, when the group makes it to the CDC (fruitless) and when Eugene asserts that if he makes it to Washington DC, he can stop the spread. As we know now, Eugene is full of sh*t, so who knows whether the virus can be stopped. For now, let's review what we DO know about it.
Everyone Has the Virus
Like in most zombie movies, if you get bit by a walker, you're going to die and come back as a walker. However, if you die from any other cause, you're still going to come back as a walker because the virus is already lying dormant in everyone. The time period for reanimation is anywhere between three minutes and eight hours, though sometimes it feels much quicker. The only way to "kill" a walker is by destroying its brain. Once someone's body dies, the virus becomes active in their brain and the only way to shut down their body is to shoot through or crush their brain. The virus itself could be in the water or airborne, it's not clear. However . . .
Fear the Walking Dead May Have Hinted at the Cause
Last year, Reddit user funeralcasual pointed out something very interesting about the first episode of The Walking Dead's spinoff: there's water everywhere. "In the cold open when Nick wakes up, there are three shots where the jug of water on the side of the is dead center frame," he wrote. "Three shots, three different angles . . . The second time is when Nick meets Calvin at the diner. Calvin is drinking water and they make sure to get that glass in the shot quite a few times, at least enough for me to notice and register that he was drinking water."
We'll Probably Never Know the Truth
In a 2012 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, then-showrunner Glen Mazzarra nearly dashed any hopes that we might get to the bottom of this mystery: "Robert [Kirkman] has not been interested in addressing in the comic book, and I'm not interested in addressing in the show," he said. "That being said, if it leads to new story - if there's something that's important that we get out of it - I'll be the first one to write it. But right now the cause of the zombie outbreak seems irrelevant. I always want the show to play like a horror movie every week. If you define what caused the outbreak, that puts us in a world of science fiction, and this isn't science fiction to me, it's horror. In my mind that's two different genres, so that is an important distinction to me."
Is My Daughter’s Disability Forcing Her Sister to Grow Up Too Fast?
We're happy to present this article by Nicole McClean, which was syndicated from Medium on one of our favorite sites, Fatherly.
Social media certainly has its flaws. However, since I created this blog, I am becoming more aware of families and their struggle raising children where disability has to be accounted for.
Raising children is challenging enough. The difficulty level increases when you have to attempt to explain to your child that their sibling has a cognitive, physical medical disability or chronic and life-threatening illness.
Siblings of children with disabilities are forced to become more mature. It's sometimes difficult to explain that their brother or sister has additional needs or special requirements that have to be taken into account ahead of their own needs.
No two children are the same. This difference is amplified when a sibling has multiple learning difficulties. This is currently something I am experiencing as a parent. Of course, with us, Sofiya is only 18-months-old, yet, countless times a day, I find myself explaining to her why she cannot hold and interact with the toy that has been thrown at her by Olivia, who is wanting a reaction. Sometimes I have to stop her when she wants to sing songs or play "Row, Row, Row Your Boat," because Sofiya's sudden arms and leg movements can result in Olivia crying.
When Olivia becomes unsettled out of the blue, Sofiya comes running to reassure her. Recently she has been trying to pick Olivia up and loves holding her like you would a baby.
I try my best to include Olivia, but the reality is that she doesn't have as much energy as a toddler. Shortly after eating, she's sleepy, and as much as she loves playing, she definitely prefers cuddle time. Olivia has her own terms and routines.
An article on the cerebral palsy family network lists 5 Ways To Help A Sibling Understand Your Child's Cerebral Palsy. I'm not sure who wrote the article but something they included has stuck with me since I came across it. I think I was 6 months pregnant at the time.
"Children who grow up with a special needs sibling are often under more stress. They may feel guilty for being the 'healthy' sibling and try to overcompensate by setting higher expectations for themselves. They worry about taking care of their special needs sibling when they get older. Some children don't understand what the condition is and worry that they might catch it too. They may even feel jealous or resentful because they are not receiving mom and dad's full attention at a time when they need it most."
There is also some great news!
According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, growing up with a sibling with special needs has its benefits. These children tend to develop skills like problem-solving, flexibility, teamwork, and compassion, all of which are very important in the real world.
Having a child with additional needs can be incredibly stressful for the whole family. Siblings can feel a whole bunch of emotions and feel shortchanged, but in the end, it's important to teach them that the love for their sibling will prevail above anything. Of course, it ultimately depends on how you as the parent handle it and how well-explained the situation is for your kids.
We've always incorporated Sofiya into Olivia's daily routine, explaining (whether she understands or not) what we're doing and trying to get her to help in any way she can. Situations like these have allowed our daughters to share a special bond that's incredible to see.
These Are the 20 Buzziest Beauty Launches For March 2017
On Monday March 20, you can ditch your heavy overnight creams and vampy lipsticks for some lighter beauty choices. The start of Spring and the month of March means it's time to clean out your vanity to get organized for new goods. We combed through all of the hottest new launches to share the makeup, skin, and hair products we're most excited about. Expect an SPF body mousse, a mascara that looks like a gorgeous jewelry box, and the ultimate holographic highlighter palette.
49 Jennifer Lopez Outfits That Are So Hot, You'll Need to Open a Window
Grab a fan and a cold beverage because you're about to see a lot of Jennifer Lopez's crazy-strong abs, toned legs, and, ahem, cleavage. The singer, actress, and producer's name is basically synonymous with the word hot, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that she's given us a fair share of revealing and sexy outfits through the past 19 years in the spotlight. Of course, there are the naked dresses (including that original Versace down-to-here Grammys dress) and '90s crop tops and low-rise pants, but there are plenty of miniskirts and backless looks as well. Keep reading to see them all.
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.
Read This Before You Try Starbucks's New Cascara Latte
Starbucks announced new menu items for 2017, including a new latte with an intriguing name: the Cascara Latte (about $4). Eager to try it out, we got one of the first tastes of the latte along with the answer to our burning question: what exactly is a Cascara Latte? It's an espresso-based drink that's inspired by the actual fruit that coffee beans come from, coffee cherries. The "cascara," meaning husk or shell in Spanish, is the outer shell of a coffee cherry that encases a coffee bean. With this in mind, Starbucks created its Cascara Latte, which has a syrup made from the coffee cherry extract, coconut, and cane sugars.
According to our resident NYC-based Starbucks enthusiast Sarah Siegel, the latte is subtly sweet and not overbearing. "I always have to tell baristas to use half the syrup they normally do to keep my drink from being overwhelmingly sweet. This latte is lightly sweetened and reminds me of brown sugar," she said. The latte is finished off with steamed milk and topped with micro foam and a cascara topping, "which is a crunchy, sweet topping reminiscent of caramel." It's safe to say this unexpected latte lived up to its expectations and delivered the sweet, satisfying flavor we were seeking. If you're just as excited to try it as we were, look out for the new drink on Starbucks menus starting in early January. It's available early to Starbucks Rewards members on Friday, Jan. 6, and available to all customers nationwide beginning Tuesday, Jan. 10, while supplies last.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Siegel
This post was originally published on Jan. 5, 2017.
36 Ways to Upcycle Your Easter Eggs
Once all the colorful plastic Easter eggs are found and opened, what do you do with them? If you're not keen on keeping them in storage till next year, there are plenty of things you can use them for. From crafts to games to new toys, check out all the amazing things you and your little ones can create using these Easter trinkets.
A Latina Invented Your Favorite Beauty Tool - Yes, the Beautyblender!
Backstage at Fashion Week, in the suitcases of some of your favorite supermodels, and even in your own makeup bag, chances are you'll find a familiar pink teardrop sponge.
The Beautyblender is a phenomenon. Today, seventeen sponges are sold every minute, and over 325,000 YouTube videos have been created around the makeup tool. That is even more impressive considering that when the sponge first appeared in stores in 2003, it was basically a one-woman operation: a very resourceful and skillful woman named Rea Ann Silva, a Latina makeup artist with more than 20 years of experience.
"My mother is Mexican, and my dad was Portuguese and Irish. I was brought up in Los Angeles with my mom's family. I identify 100 percent as being Latina," Silva said when we caught up with her over the phone to talk about her invention. "My mother never wore makeup. She thought I would be good in fashion, so she enrolled me into the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising." There, Silva says she quickly realized it was the sketching and drawing she loved the most, so she got herself a job at a makeup counter.
That's where it all began for her. She met the right people and started working on music video sets with singers like Rod Stewart, then made the jump into television and film, working with Vivica A. Fox in Set It Off. Finally, in 2000, she was running the makeup department for the first TV show filmed in high-definition: CBS's Girlfriends featuring Tracee Ellis Ross.
I'd spend hours cutting the sponges into the tear shape by hand, and they'd disappear from the trailer!
The idea for the Beautyblender came to Silva in the makeup trailer on the set of Girlfriends. "I would airbrush everyone in the morning, but by the end of the day, the makeup looked heavy," she says. "I couldn't bring the airbrush kit to set, so the team would do touch-ups with sponges. It was hard to keep a light hand. I found this special-effects sponge used to apply prosthetics and started wetting it like film makeup artist Kelcey Fry used to do. I realized that the smoother sponge would absorb less foundation once wet and created a natural finish. I'd spend hours cutting the sponges into the tear shape by hand, and they'd disappear from the trailer! Makeup artists and actors were taking them home." That's how she knew the invention had potential.
Read on to learn 10 surprising things about Rea Ann Silva and the cult beauty brand that has inspired hundreds of viral tricks.
Queen Elizabeth II Is the Only Female Royal to Have Ever Done This
Queen Elizabeth II may have a lot of royal duties as the monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, but before becoming queen, she helped served her country in a different way. During World War II, the then-Princess Elizabeth joined the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service in 1945. As "Second Subaltern Elizabeth Alexander Mary Windsor," she ditched her traditional garb while she trained as a mechanic and driver and was eventually promoted to honorary junior commander five months later. Not only does her previous position make her the only female member of the royal family to have entered the armed forces, but she also currently stands as the only living head of state to have served in World War II. Pretty impressive! It looks like military men Prince William and Prince Harry take after their grandmother.
Discover These Modest Styling Hacks Just in Time For All Those Family Dinners
Maybe it's your religion that requires you to cover up. Maybe it's your job. Or maybe, just maybe, you simply do it for personal preference. Whatever the reason, your style can be described as "modest," and just like the rest of the world, you experience your fair share of fashion dilemmas. That's why we rounded up the outfits ahead - ones that include structured, high-neck, and layered pieces - and also offer hacks that could inspire your next stellar look. Scroll through to take 'em all in, just in time for all those holiday dinners. Then, check out the brides who went modest on their wedding day.
15 of the Most Jaw-Dropping BBG Transformations We've Seen Lately
We never cease to be impressed by the awe-inspiring transformations from Kayla Itsines's BBG program. The women around the world who we see busting their booties on Instagram are the source of endless motivation (and a few tears every so often - their stories are emotional!). We've rounded up some of the most impressive transformations that women have shared this year - you can see how long these women have been working on their goals, what it took, and how much weight they've lost (or gained!) to get themselves in the best shape of their lives.
15 of the Most Jaw-Dropping BBG Transformations We've Seen Lately
We never cease to be impressed by the awe-inspiring transformations from Kayla Itsines's BBG program. The women around the world who we see busting their booties on Instagram are the source of endless motivation (and a few tears every so often - their stories are emotional!). We've rounded up some of the most impressive transformations that women have shared this year - you can see how long these women have been working on their goals, what it took, and how much weight they've lost (or gained!) to get themselves in the best shape of their lives.
How to Smartly Grocery Shop at Costco For 1
Costco's low prices for bulk groceries seem like an obvious choice for families, but what about parties of one? If you live alone or are shopping for just yourself, here are some smart choices you can make in the food section to take advantage of the deals without accidentally wasting your pretty pennies.
Never Go to Costco Hungry
You'll be swayed to purchase all the samples, but once you're home, you'll wonder why in the world did you think it was a good call to buy a triple pack of spicy tofu noodes?! Therefore, always make a list prior to going to Costco and eat before you enter the aisles. If you forget, do thyself a favor and eat a slice of pizza from the food court.
Buy Your Staples ONLY
You know what you eat day in and day out and what you constantly buy at the grocery and seem to always run out of. If you can't say with confidence that you can finish a large container of something and quickly, too, don't purchase it. Also, use Costco's coupons for your favorite items rather than for something random that sounds enticing.
Become BFFs With Canned and Frozen Foods
What do canned soups, canned tuna, beer, and frozen burritos have in common? These groceries have an extended shelf life and are packaged up for one. Perfect! Consider this when purchasing groceries. Frozen fruit and veggies are also usually safe for the solo grocery buyer, but be sure you are choosing items that you'll really and truly want to eat on the regular.
Be Careful When It Comes to Perishables
Milk, eggs, cheese, and fresh meat and produce can spell trouble for the solo shopper since they come in such large packages. Yogurt and butter may be the few exceptions, as they usually come in smaller, more manageable packages.
This Pilates-Inspired Boot Camp Changed My Self-Esteem About My Abs
Unfortunately, the fit brunette with visible ab muscles and a flat stomach in the photo is not me. She's likely an instructor or top student at SLT, an NYC-based boutique fitness studio featuring exercises done on Pilates reformer machines. That said, joining this core-strengthening cult made me a hell of a lot more confident about my own midsection.
Honestly, my stomach has always been a sensitive topic for me - it's where I gain weight first and lose it last. I've never had a flat tummy (and likely never will, because my shape is a bit more apple), but I still work at getting it to be as toned as possible. Last year, I challenged myself to take about three months' worth of SLT classes. Though I could only do about one to two classes per week since I was still building up my strength, there was a noticeable difference in my shape when I had to wear a bathing suit for a vacation in Florida. And I am proud to say it was the first time I ever shared a photo of myself in a bikini (sans a cover-up top) on Instagram.
As a dancer who still practices and loves Pilates, yoga, and barre, finding workouts that challenge my core are few and far between. SLT actually kicks my ass. Every. Time. The class is a mix of Pilates and barre, all done on a reformer machine called a Megaformer. "If cardio, strength training, and Pilates had a baby, it would be SLT. It's a total-body, 50-minute workout offering a heart-pumping, muscle-quivering experience," said SLT's CEO Amanda Freeman. "Often described as 'Pilates on steroids,' the workout is performed slowly to activate the slow-twitch muscle fibers, leading to the long, lean, toned results. Muscles are worked to fatigue, forcing them to grow while increasing your rate of fat and calorie burning (up to 600 per session)."
It's really as difficult as it sounds - in the best way possible! After doing just one class, my stomach felt significantly tighter, love handles smoother, and legs leaner. Yes, I was very sore (walking up the stairs was painful), but over time, my body got used to it and that went away. The benefits were that I learned better workout habits (like slowing down!), got much more toned, and overall felt better about my figure.
If you're thinking about trying this workout or a similar one on a Pilates reformer machine, then keep reading to discover what I learned while consistently taking this class.
This Pilates-Inspired Boot Camp Changed My Self-Esteem About My Abs
Unfortunately, the fit brunette with visible ab muscles and a flat stomach in the photo is not me. She's likely an instructor or top student at SLT, an NYC-based boutique fitness studio featuring exercises done on Pilates reformer machines. That said, joining this core-strengthening cult made me a hell of a lot more confident about my own midsection.
Honestly, my stomach has always been a sensitive topic for me - it's where I gain weight first and lose it last. I've never had a flat tummy (and likely never will, because my shape is a bit more apple), but I still work at getting it to be as toned as possible. Last year, I challenged myself to take about three months' worth of SLT classes. Though I could only do about one to two classes per week since I was still building up my strength, there was a noticeable difference in my shape when I had to wear a bathing suit for a vacation in Florida. And I am proud to say it was the first time I ever shared a photo of myself in a bikini (sans a cover-up top) on Instagram.
As a dancer who still practices and loves Pilates, yoga, and barre, finding workouts that challenge my core are few and far between. SLT actually kicks my ass. Every. Time. The class is a mix of Pilates and barre, all done on a reformer machine called a Megaformer. "If cardio, strength training, and Pilates had a baby, it would be SLT. It's a total-body, 50-minute workout offering a heart-pumping, muscle-quivering experience," said SLT's CEO Amanda Freeman. "Often described as 'Pilates on steroids,' the workout is performed slowly to activate the slow-twitch muscle fibers, leading to the long, lean, toned results. Muscles are worked to fatigue, forcing them to grow while increasing your rate of fat and calorie burning (up to 600 per session)."
It's really as difficult as it sounds - in the best way possible! After doing just one class, my stomach felt significantly tighter, love handles smoother, and legs leaner. Yes, I was very sore (walking up the stairs was painful), but over time, my body got used to it and that went away. The benefits were that I learned better workout habits (like slowing down!), got much more toned, and overall felt better about my figure.
If you're thinking about trying this workout or a similar one on a Pilates reformer machine, then keep reading to discover what I learned while consistently taking this class.
8 Toxic Ingredients You Should Never Use in Your Skin Care Routine
Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Tata Harper's farm in Vermont, and it blew my mind. It should not have been so shocking. I've been a fan of her natural-ingredient, eco-friendly skin care and makeup line for years. It's ideal for my sensitive skin, and everything smells deliciously botanical with milky, silky textures. But actually seeing the farm-to-vanity process of these products made me realize: they are the real deal.
These are not products that claim to have organic ingredients but are still packed with "processed" stuff. In fact, most Tata Harper formulas have the shelf life of just a few months. She pointed out: why would you want to put something on your face with enough preservatives to make it last for years? Gross. (I immediately went home after the trip and threw away a ton of expired formulas.)
"I started Tata Harper Skincare after my stepfather was diagnosed with cancer," she told me via email. "Through all of the doctor's appointments I learned so much about lifestyle and how little decisions affect health and wellbeing. That's when I started really researching ingredients, and discovered that a lot of the ingredients with the most potential health risks aren't even there to give results; they're just fillers like preservatives, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickeners designed to keep the formula stable and give the product its texture. I only use natural ingredients because I believe that no woman should have to compromise her health for her beauty, especially if those ingredients aren't even making her beautiful!"
The more I learned about natural ingredients, the more I only wanted to use them. Every time I wash my face with Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser, I envision the apricot seed powder exfoliating my skin and the French pink clay detoxifying it. Or when I nourish my face with the Rejuvenating Serum, I know rosehip seed oil is rejuvenating my under-eye area, while Spanish lavender extract is relaxing fine lines.
If you are eager to get informed about the harmful ingredients in your skin care products, as well as natural ones to look for instead, keep reading. Tata Harper herself breaks down what to ditch, what to use, and why.
This Pilates-Inspired Boot Camp Changed My Self-Esteem About My Abs
Unfortunately, the fit brunette with visible ab muscles and a flat stomach in the photo is not me. She's likely an instructor or top student at SLT, an NYC-based boutique fitness studio featuring exercises done on Pilates reformer machines. That said, joining this core-strengthening cult made me a hell of a lot more confident about my own midsection.
Honestly, my stomach has always been a sensitive topic for me - it's where I gain weight first and lose it last. I've never had a flat tummy (and likely never will, because my shape is a bit more apple), but I still work at getting it to be as toned as possible. Last year, I challenged myself to take about three months' worth of SLT classes. Though I could only do about one to two classes per week since I was still building up my strength, there was a noticeable difference in my shape when I had to wear a bathing suit for a vacation in Florida. And I am proud to say it was the first time I ever shared a photo of myself in a bikini (sans a cover-up top) on Instagram.
As a dancer who still practices and loves Pilates, yoga, and barre, finding workouts that challenge my core are few and far between. SLT actually kicks my ass. Every. Time. The class is a mix of Pilates and barre, all done on a reformer machine called a Megaformer. "If cardio, strength training, and Pilates had a baby, it would be SLT. It's a total-body, 50-minute workout offering a heart-pumping, muscle-quivering experience," said SLT's CEO Amanda Freeman. "Often described as 'Pilates on steroids,' the workout is performed slowly to activate the slow-twitch muscle fibers, leading to the long, lean, toned results. Muscles are worked to fatigue, forcing them to grow while increasing your rate of fat and calorie burning (up to 600 per session)."
It's really as difficult as it sounds - in the best way possible! After doing just one class, my stomach felt significantly tighter, love handles smoother, and legs leaner. Yes, I was very sore (walking up the stairs was painful), but over time, my body got used to it and that went away. The benefits were that I learned better workout habits (like slowing down!), got much more toned, and overall felt better about my figure.
If you're thinking about trying this workout or a similar one on a Pilates reformer machine, then keep reading to discover what I learned while consistently taking this class.
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