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 1 juin 2017
This Is What It's Like to Live With Birth Marks Covering Your Face and Body
"Ugh, what happened to you?" "You're not pretty like the other girls." "No one likes you. You look like you're covered in dirt." "No one is ever going to like you."
These remarks were the norm for me when I was growing up. Every comment hurt a little bit more than the last. I subconsciously hoarded them until they started to become the very things I was telling myself. I have a rare epidermal nevus condition called Phacomatosis pigmentokeratotica, which affects about 1 in 2,000 people. A nevus is the scientific term for birthmark or mole. My case is caused by a genetic mutation, although the specific gene remains unknown. It isn't something you'd see everyday, which was why I garnered this kind of attention.
I might've only been 7 or 8 years old, but I could still understand the magnitude of disgust behind every mean comment. I was constantly bullied in school by my peers. They would make fun of me for looking different. During sixth grade lunch hour, a boy threw food at me and crumpled notes with mean things written on them such as, "You're ugly." The harassment didn't stop with my classmates.
Parents of these kids would tell my mom and dad that I should have surgery to remove them, because I wasn't attractive. Adults walking past me would sneer at the sight of me and take pictures to laugh at. My sixth grade Spanish teacher even publically bullied me in front of class and said, "Why don't you go and connect the dots on your face?" You could imagine the amount of emotional trauma this caused to my self-esteem. I received positive comments here and there, but it was always the negative ones that held more weight to me.
My mom would take many measures to cover me up as best as she could to protect me from the world. I was always outfitted in turtlenecks and long pants. When it got hot, my mom would slather on foundation that was five times too light and too sheer for my skin. I was always running around so the makeup melted off anyway. It was not ideal.
I was taught was to hide and to cover my skin so people wouldn't say anything. But no matter how hard I tried, every negative comment and experience felt like the weight of the world. I hated what I looked like and soon I embodied everything that hurt. I believed that I wasn't beautiful and that I never could be. I briefly contemplated suicide around the end of middle school. If I just stopped everything, I wouldn't have to hurt anymore. I could stop my parents from tirelessly trying to find the best medical care for me, since at the time, most dermatologists didn't know what to do with my case. "Maybe I could stop my parents from having to take the emotional abuse. It would be so easy to end my emotional suffering," I thought to myself. [Editor's note: if you or a loved one feels suicidal, find help here.]
I am now 24 years old, and all I can say is that I am grateful I chose otherwise. It was a painfully slow but steady journey to attain self-acceptance. To this day, I feel like I still have a lot to work on. There are days when I'll cry, but I'm only human, and I need to allow myself to feel emotion. Regardless of those bad days, I know that I will always pick myself up and continue on with my life.
Today, I can't help but tell you how much I love my life and how much I am appreciative for my birthmarks. Not only have they given me confidence in my appearance, but they have also given me the strength and drive to pursue my dreams. I grew up with a lot of negativity, but slowly, I learned to stand up against it. I kept telling myself that they were wrong and that what they said meant nothing to me. I began to apply the mindset of "never taking no for an answer" to all aspects of my life.
Being bullied when I was young made me sensitive. I used to hate that I didn't have tough skin but now, I feel fortunate that I don't. My sensitivity allows me to be compassionate towards people who are hurting and it allows me to pick up on subtle hints that they are in pain. My birthmarks also taught me to be positive for myself and for other people around me. There is enough hate in this world and enough people telling us that we can't do something.
I didn't want to add to that, and instead, I chose to have a positive outlook on my life and to lift up the people around me. When I see the people around me reach success, it's a chain reaction for more great things to come. So I can't help but continue to be positive. I can't express the amount of emotional suffering I went through to get to the confidence level I am at now. I came up with things to remind myself when things were especially difficult, and I hope these tips empower you to believe in your worth and your beauty. You have so much to offer in this world! Without further ado:
1. You have to love you.
This was the most difficult, but most important idea to grasp in my journey to accepting myself. My family and friends were always encouraging about my appearance and say that it's what they love about me. It is what makes me different. What I came to realize was that although the support was strong, I could not accept it until I came to accept myself. Strength at its paramount comes from within. People can be strong for you, but it is meaningless until you truly believe you are beautiful. Once you are confident that you are strong, no one can take that away from you.
What is even more important is that once you love yourself, the negative comments you receive become so irrelevant to you that you barely even notice they exist. You can create your reality. If you bottle up those negative comments and make them a part of you, then they will overcome you. But, if you believe that you are strong and beautiful, then that will in and of itself become your reality.
Something I do to feel strong inside and out is that I go to the gym! I love lifting weights and circuit training. I make sure to work out each muscle group throughout the week. I also rarely eat out, because I love to cook healthy. The combinations of both working out and eating clean make me feel great both physically and mentally.
2. When times get tough, get tougher.
There were many situations in which I found myself behind closed doors by myself, crying because I didn't know what I did to garner such negative attention. I would just sit there and feel so bad for myself. It came to a point when I would be sitting in an ocean of used tissues, dizzy from hyperventilating and unable to squeeze any more tears out of my eyes. I realized that life goes on. It's not going to sit and wait for you to feel bad for yourself. There are things out there to be done. Goals to be reached. Empowerment to be gained. Success to be earned. I bit my bottom lip and redirected my energy into the things I felt made my life worth living.
I channeled this energy into becoming a doctor. I had been exposed to dermatology my entire life and have been fortunate to meet some incredible and inspirational physicians who changed me forever. I also have had over 60 major and minor surgeries, so I have also been exposed to the field of plastic surgery. It's something I want to dedicate my life to because I want to help people through what I am currently going through. Because of my birthmarks and the arduous journey with having them, I feel I am able to relate to my patients and lead them to a physically and mentally healthy life.
So, my lesson for you is that you need to take life by the balls and own it. Find something worth being tough about and run with it. The world is yours. You have to choose to take it.
3. Stop trying to hide it - own it!
My mom insisted that I use makeup to cover my skin when I was younger, but now, all I want to do is show the world that I am proud to be me. I tried to use foundation once, but I looked so silly. The coverage was too sheer and the amount I had to use was ridiculous. I honestly didn't feel authentic. If people look, I say let them look! Let them admire your beauty. In a world where people are dying to stand out, we are lucky to already have that trait.
Though I decided to forgo cosmetics for coverage, I still have products to protect my skin from damaging UV rays. My beauty secret is to use a broad-spectrum SPF moisturizer and body lotion. It'll also prevent premature aging, an added bonus. My favorites include: Jergens Natural Glow SPF 20 ($11) for the face and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock ($7 each), SPF 45 and SPF 100 for my body. I encourage everyone, even to those who do not have birthmarks, to use SPF. I love Jergens Natural Glow for its smell and its self-tanning product. Since I can't go out and tan, this my way of getting some color. Neutrogena's Dry Touch line is amazing because it doesn't feel heavy. I've gone through too many greasy sunblocks and am glad to say that this product line definitely does not disappoint.
4. Be compassionate.
The comments that people make must never define you. Sometimes, people will say mean things that will hurt you to the very core. It's an uncomfortable situation, especially if the topic of your appearance is an extremely sensitive subject. It's important to keep in mind that people are curious. Sometimes they are ignorant. If they are mean to you, it is because they still have more to learn about life. They just don't understand how to process your beauty. Continue to be kind, for they are simply naive.
As I get older, less mean things are said to me, but I still get asked about them. I realize that the questions come from curiosity. It's harder to understand this when it's a sensitive topic, but it's important to be compassionate and to not be defensive to those who question. I get asked all the time if I wanted to get them removed and my answer was, is, and will continue to be: no. My birthmarks made me the person I am today. They gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams in more ways than one. They have given me the confidence and grit to continue my goals of being a doctor. They made me compassionate and optimistic.
I want people out there who are going through what I went through to understand that it's OK to be a little insecure sometimes. I want you to know that you are beautiful and that you are loved, even if you can't see it. You don't have to prove your worth to anyone but yourself. You are already great. You have the potential to be even greater and you have it within you to never stop until you reach success. Believe that your differences make you unique. Be confident that they can change your life once you accept them and love them for what they are and who you can be.
Jenna Lee is currently workong on completing a Masters Degree in biomedical sciences; follow her on Instagram here!
Run 5 Miles in 50 Minutes With This Playlist
If a 10-minute mile is your speed, here's a playlist custom-made for your workout routine. Each tune is 150 BPM, the perfect tempo to keep your pace. Whether you love Florence + the Machine or DJ Khaled, there's a little something for everyone on this mix. Subscribe to the Spotify playlist, then keep reading for the full list of songs.
- "Dog Days Are Over" - Florence + the Machine
- "Shake It" - Metro Station
- "Mr. Brightside" - The Killers
- "Animal" - Neon Trees
- "All I Do Is Win" - DJ Khaled
- "Clark Gable" - The Postal Service
- "In For the Kill" - La Roux
- "Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh" - Say Hi
- "OK, It's Alright With Me" - Eric Hutchinson
- "My Delirium" - Ladyhawke
- "Dreams" - Passion Pit
- "Much Finer" - Le Tigre
- "Hong Kong Garden" - Siouxsie and the Banshees
- "Unstoppable" - Santigold
If this mix isn't your pace, check out all our workout playlists here to find something that works.
Remember, you will need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists.
16 Breathtaking Vacation Properties the British Royal Family Loves
The royal family is always criss-crossing the globe for official tours and state visits, but where they choose to spend their personal time is another matter. While the queen and Prince Philip vacation every Summer in their Scottish home Balmoral, their children and grandchildren prefer to spend their time in exotic and luxurious destinations around the world. From Africa to the US, India to the Alps, we take you on a whistle-stop tour of some of the royals' favorite holiday hangouts.
This Secret Indian Hair-Growth Formula May Finally Give You a Mermaid Mane
Anyone who has unsuccessfully tried to get their hair to grow may roll their eyes at this video in which Prachi (the vlogger behind Super Wow Style) shares a family recipe for lengthier locks. Could a simple mix of natural ingredients really make hair grow up to 30-40 percent as Prachi claims? We were a bit skeptical, too, and while we have not tried this remedy, a look at Prachi's long shiny mane and reading the reviewers' testimonials is making us reconsider. Perhaps this is the holistic answer to getting the mermaid mane of your dreams. In fact, Prachi challenges viewers to take before and after images when they test the treatment.
"People ask, 'How does you hair grow?' and I give them the same answer," she says in the video. "I learned it from my mom, and she learned is from her mother. It's an old Indian secret."
To DIY it, you'll need: coconut oil, castor oil, vitamin E, aloe vera leaves, and two bowls (one small and one large). Start by cutting up the aloe vera leaves, and then scratch it with a knife or fork to scrape out more gel. Rub the leaf on your scalp and massage the aloe gel into your roots. Use your fingers to make sure it's all over your head.
Then, in a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of castor oil with 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Pierce the vitamin E capsule with needle, extract the oil, and add it to the formula. Place the small bowl with the three oils in a larger one containing hot water. Warning: do not place the oil directly on a fire (including a stove) or in microwaves, since it can catch fire immediately.
After five minutes, the hot oil should be ready. Use your fingertips to apply it onto your scalp. Lay down on a sofa or the like and gently massage it into your scalp for two to three minutes. "This is very important to increase blood circulation for hair growth," she explains.
Once you're done, weave your hair in tight braid and sleep on it. Wash you hair in the morning. According to Prachi, you will start seeing a difference in your hair length "very, very soon."
While she does not specify how often to do the treatment, reviewers offer their successful trials.
"I tried this method exactly as she explained to and it WORKED!" one commenter said. "My hair grew about 4 to 5 inches in about 3 months! I did it 2 x per week for a month. Then 1 x per week for the next 2 months. It made my hair so healthy and strong. Everyone kept commenting on how fast my hair grew and how long it is. Before I started my hair was bra strap length. Now it is to my hips! I don't have photos to post, because I seriously hate taking photos of myself since I have gained weight (next thing to work on) but I will consider it."
Another commenter said, "I watched your video and used these products! And it works like MAGIC. I don't know how but my hair grew in a week. I used it two times a week though aloe vera was not available! But castor oil is super! Hats off!"
A third remarked, "It's amazing . . . I've seen results in just 2 wash[es] . . . My hair [ha]s became more silky and the best part it made my hair 2.5 cm longer."
So, what do you think? Is this a hoax or the most genius hair hack ever?
6 Ways You Can Advance Gender Equality in the Workplace Today
OK, first the good news: more and more companies are getting wise to the importance of gender equality in the workplace. Studies have shown that more women means better decision-making, more innovation, and even greater financial returns.
And the not-so-good news: even with new programs and policies that have been implemented, the World Economic Forum estimates that the gender wage gap could take 170 years to close. That's a long, long time.
So what's going to bring change faster? Fast enough for us to see in our lifetime? You guessed it . . . it's women doing more for ourselves and working together to make change. There are tons of things - large and small - that we can all do in our daily routine in the workplace to bring gender equality about faster. Such as:
1. Ask For a Raise
I've managed a lot of people in my day, and I'll tell you one thing: men love asking for raises. It's like a hobby for them. But women . . . not so much. So imagine the power of every woman asking emphatically for a raise - the way that men do. It would be like a mini women's march every day. Goodbye, gender wage gap.
2. Support Another Woman
Women are notoriously competitive with each other in the workplace. Cut that sh*t out. Go find a woman you don't know well, and ask her to coffee. Speak up about something awesome that another woman accomplished. Give some free career advice to another woman just because.
3. (Gently) Criticize Another Woman
When I was in my first job out of college, my (female) manager took the time to pull me aside and tell me that I wasn't dressing appropriately for the office. I almost died of embarrassment. And yet - I'm so glad she did. I would not be where I am today if she hadn't gone above and beyond to have the "hard conversation" with me. And at least she was nice enough to do it over drinks.
4. Join Your Women's Network and Make It Count
Set objectives for things that your women's employee resource group can work to address. Does your company publicly announce its gender split? Do you have enough women in leadership roles? Are there enough mentoring opportunities? Is there succession planning and career tracking for women? Appropriate career tracking? Identify some key areas you'd like to make change in, and raise them to management. Special bonus: you'll raise your own profile at the same time.
5. Make Yourself Visible and Make Sure That Everyone Knows Who You Are
Most women were raised not to brag. But you have to be your own publicist and make sure everyone at the company knows who you are and why you're awesome. So find ways to meet people who are not in your area. Build your reputation as the awesome woman who the company can't live without.
6. Share Your Experiences
Knowledge is power. That's why we invented Fairygodboss, an online community dedicated to improving the workplace for women by creating transparency. Case in point: we checked the top 100 of the Fortune 500 - and only six of those companies publicly posted their maternity leave policies on their websites. So we crowdsourced them . . .
Join the movement! Get online, leave a free anonymous review of your company, and help make sure your company knows what is working and what just doesn't fly. Either that, or you can just start wearing your pink pussyhat to work.
Fairygodboss is an online career community for women. Our mission is to improve the workplace for women by creating transparency. YOU can help us help women everywhere by anonymously sharing information about your work experience on Fairygodboss.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Scrambled Eggs
One of the most basic recipes everyone learns is scrambled eggs, but the truth is perfectly scrambled eggs are a lot trickier than they seem. Much like the classic omelet, scrambling eggs is one cooking method on which many chefs differ. To whisk in a bowl or in the pan? To add dairy or to not? Minor tweaks can make huge differences in something so basic, and we guarantee you'll want to change up your scrambled egg routine with tips from these experts - they know a thing or two about recipe developing. Here's how some of our favorite chefs scramble their eggs (we're not kidding when we say Gordon Ramsay's method is a game changer).
Alton Brown: Whisk With Whole Milk
Simple yet effective is the name of the game in Alton Brown's scrambled egg recipe. Adding whole milk isn't his only tip, though. "Odds are you're going to be serving these on a plate. If so, I strongly suggest you park an ovensafe one in a low oven or in hot water while you're cooking. Cold plates suck the heat right out of food," his recipe description reads.
Anthony Bourdain: Skip the Dairy
Anthony Bourdain doesn't condone adding milk or cream to scrambled eggs - or anything, for that matter. "I just don't feel that milk or cream adds anything. I believe that a scrambled egg is principally about the egg," the Appetites author says in a video about the best way to cook scrambled eggs. Anthony's other pro tip is to be careful not to overbeat the eggs; you want some white parts remaining. He cooks them in a heated pan with warm, foaming butter and carefully pushes them around in a figure-eight pattern to create soft folds.
Giada De Laurentiis: Frittata Cupcakes
Giada's preferred method of scrambling eggs involves a mini muffin tin - she likes to make frittata cupcakes. She told POPSUGAR in an interview, "I love making my little cupcakes - frittata cupcakes. I just stick whatever's left in the fridge. Whatever it is that was from the night before, whether it's leftover pasta, leftover meat, leftover vegetables . . . Another favorite is lox, scrambled eggs, and peas - for a little color. For a Sunday morning, it's one of my favorite go-to breakfasts."
Gordon Ramsay: Low and Slow (With a Secret Ingredient)
Gordon Ramsay's scrambled eggs recipe is one everyone must try at least once. The finished product looks more like custard, and thanks to his cooking method and a secret ingredient, they're melt-in-your-mouth good.
Paula Deen: With Water and Vidalia Onions
"We can't operate without Vidalia onions around here," Paula Deen said of her scrambled eggs in an interview with POPSUGAR. In addition to caramelized onions, Paula adds a splash of water to her eggs. "Water doesn't make it as tough as milk," she says. The real kicker, though, is to scramble the eggs in both butter and bacon fat to get the most flavor.
Chrissy Teigen: "Cheesy" Eggs, Hold the Cheese
Chrissy Teigen swears by her method of creating "cheesy" eggs without the cheese, thanks to her secret ingredient: heavy cream. Her tip for getting them as creamy as possible with no browned spots? "Don't stop gently stirring and scraping (edges and all) for more than a few seconds!"
The Pioneer Woman: Smoked Salmon and Chives
Like most Pioneer Woman recipes, this one sounds delightful. Calling them the "best scrambled eggs ever", Ree Drummond suggests sprinkling in chopped smoked salmon after the eggs are cooked and then garnishing with chopped fresh chives.
Mario Batali: Topped With Shaved Truffle
Leave it to Mario Batali to bring some serious culinary chops to such a basic recipe. To make scrambled eggs special, Mario suggests adding mascarpone or parmesan cheese, but to make them "spectacular," garnish with shaved truffle.
Katie Lee: Back to Basics
Food Network host Katie Lee has a strictly back-to-basics approach to scrambled eggs. She melts butter in a skillet and cooks the eggs low and slow. "It is important to keep the heat low when cooking eggs so as not to burn them," Katie told POPSUGAR in an interview.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Scrambled Eggs
One of the most basic recipes everyone learns is scrambled eggs, but the truth is perfectly scrambled eggs are a lot trickier than they seem. Much like the classic omelet, scrambling eggs is one cooking method on which many chefs differ. To whisk in a bowl or in the pan? To add dairy or to not? Minor tweaks can make huge differences in something so basic, and we guarantee you'll want to change up your scrambled egg routine with tips from these experts - they know a thing or two about recipe developing. Here's how some of our favorite chefs scramble their eggs (we're not kidding when we say Gordon Ramsay's method is a game changer).
Alton Brown: Whisk With Whole Milk
Simple yet effective is the name of the game in Alton Brown's scrambled egg recipe. Adding whole milk isn't his only tip, though. "Odds are you're going to be serving these on a plate. If so, I strongly suggest you park an ovensafe one in a low oven or in hot water while you're cooking. Cold plates suck the heat right out of food," his recipe description reads.
Anthony Bourdain: Skip the Dairy
Anthony Bourdain doesn't condone adding milk or cream to scrambled eggs - or anything, for that matter. "I just don't feel that milk or cream adds anything. I believe that a scrambled egg is principally about the egg," the Appetites author says in a video about the best way to cook scrambled eggs. Anthony's other pro tip is to be careful not to overbeat the eggs; you want some white parts remaining. He cooks them in a heated pan with warm, foaming butter and carefully pushes them around in a figure-eight pattern to create soft folds.
Giada De Laurentiis: Frittata Cupcakes
Giada's preferred method of scrambling eggs involves a mini muffin tin - she likes to make frittata cupcakes. She told POPSUGAR in an interview, "I love making my little cupcakes - frittata cupcakes. I just stick whatever's left in the fridge. Whatever it is that was from the night before, whether it's leftover pasta, leftover meat, leftover vegetables . . . Another favorite is lox, scrambled eggs, and peas - for a little color. For a Sunday morning, it's one of my favorite go-to breakfasts."
Gordon Ramsay: Low and Slow (With a Secret Ingredient)
Gordon Ramsay's scrambled eggs recipe is one everyone must try at least once. The finished product looks more like custard, and thanks to his cooking method and a secret ingredient, they're melt-in-your-mouth good.
Paula Deen: With Water and Vidalia Onions
"We can't operate without Vidalia onions around here," Paula Deen said of her scrambled eggs in an interview with POPSUGAR. In addition to caramelized onions, Paula adds a splash of water to her eggs. "Water doesn't make it as tough as milk," she says. The real kicker, though, is to scramble the eggs in both butter and bacon fat to get the most flavor.
Chrissy Teigen: "Cheesy" Eggs, Hold the Cheese
Chrissy Teigen swears by her method of creating "cheesy" eggs without the cheese, thanks to her secret ingredient: heavy cream. Her tip for getting them as creamy as possible with no browned spots? "Don't stop gently stirring and scraping (edges and all) for more than a few seconds!"
The Pioneer Woman: Smoked Salmon and Chives
Like most Pioneer Woman recipes, this one sounds delightful. Calling them the "best scrambled eggs ever", Ree Drummond suggests sprinkling in chopped smoked salmon after the eggs are cooked and then garnishing with chopped fresh chives.
Mario Batali: Topped With Shaved Truffle
Leave it to Mario Batali to bring some serious culinary chops to such a basic recipe. To make scrambled eggs special, Mario suggests adding mascarpone or parmesan cheese, but to make them "spectacular," garnish with shaved truffle.
Katie Lee: Back to Basics
Food Network host Katie Lee has a strictly back-to-basics approach to scrambled eggs. She melts butter in a skillet and cooks the eggs low and slow. "It is important to keep the heat low when cooking eggs so as not to burn them," Katie told POPSUGAR in an interview.
A Stranger's Heartwarming Gesture Helped a Soldier Reunite With His Family on Memorial Day
Posted by Jennifer Streicher-Tilson on Thursday, December 8, 2016
Thanks to one stranger's random and quick act of kindness, an Army soldier was able to go home and see his family for Memorial Day. Josh Rainey bought a flight for Keaton Tilson, a US Army mechanic, and his family is extremely grateful for the heartwarming gesture.
Tilson, a 19-year-old soldier based in Fort Hood, Texas, received approval to go home for Memorial Day Weekend on May 25. However, he was trying to fly standby and couldn't get on a flight. That was until Josh Rainey saw the ordeal he was going through and tried to give Tilson his ticket from Dallas-Fort Worth International to St. Louis, Missouri. When that move didn't work either, Rainey simply bought him a ticket, reports KTVI. Tilson was moved by the gesture and couldn't believe it. "I'm very appreciative because if it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't be here right now," said Tilson to Good Morning America.
Rainey and Tilson were both emotional after the ticket exchange. "He walked away and came back and asked if he could hug me, and I think we both had to fight back the tears after that," said Rainey to KTVI. "It was pennies, pennies on the dollar compared to what I got back from that hug. But that hug was the biggest payment I received."
Jennifer Streicher-Tilson, the mother of Keaton, was also moved by the gesture. "Words can't even describe how grateful and surprised we were!" she said to POPSUGAR. She hopes Rainey's act serves as a positive message and reminder that we can always help someone out. "I know myself and other friends and family will be paying it forward. When we see someone in need, we will help as much as we are able to!" she said. Streicher-Tilson wrote a similar sentiment and shared it on her Facebook page on May 26.
Sometimes, especially in the world we live in today, I am amazed by the kindness of strangers! Keaton just got his...
Posted by Jennifer Streicher-Tilson on Friday, May 26, 2017
This story serves as yet another reminder that no gesture is too small or big to help someone out.
Pippa Middleton Wore the Shoe of the Summer on Her Honeymoon
It's only been a couple of weeks since Pippa Middleton married James Matthews in a gorgeous Giles Deacon wedding dress and now everyone has already turned their attention to her honeymoon outfits.
Pippa was spotted in Sydney in a Kate Spade black-and-white striped dress and a simple cardigan, but it was her shoes that really caught our eye. She styled her dress with a pair of black lace-up espadrille wedges that are perfect for the Summer.
We've already seen Jennifer Aniston wearing a similar style, and you're bound to see more of this classic warm-weather wedge in the upcoming months. Have a look at Pippa's honeymoon style ahead and buy similar versions of her wedges, too.
This Is Why Alessandra Ambrosio's Street Style Is Always So Damn Good
We've never seen a street style look Alessandra Ambrosio has worn that we didn't immediately want, but we're still surprised to see the Brazilian model upping her game year after year. Just when we think she's the most stylish she's ever been, bam, she walks out in an even better outfit.
So far this year, she has shown us athleisure can be sexy in a revealing top, reinforced the power of Winter pastels in a gorgeous maxi dress, and demonstrated that going back to basics with a white sweater and jeans is never a bad idea. Scroll ahead to see those looks and more, and feel totally inspired!
Moana, Trolls, and More Are Coming to Netflix in June For Kids!
If you've got a kiddo who's obsessed with Moana or Trolls, rejoice! The two hit kid movies from last year are hitting Netflix this month, along with some new seasons of Netflix original series and a few other must-see kid flicks. The weather may be warming up, but a good old-fashioned Netflix binge in the air conditioning never hurt nobody.
Ahead, everything that's slated to hit Netflix in June for kids (and see the full lineup for adults here).
Summer Dream Workout - in a Pool!
Cool off while you workout, but skip the crawl and backstroke. You can burn a bunch of calories in the pool - no swimming required. Here are five moves that will get your heart rate up while keeping you refreshed. Add our favorite ab and core exercises into your watery workout to target your middle, too.
15 Things You Never Knew About Tulips
It's not Spring until the first tulip blossoms make their much-anticipated appearance. To celebrate these lovely perennials, we've gathered the most bizarre, historic, and all around interesting facts we could find on them.
Check them out below and then start fantasizing about all the beautiful ways you can display your stems.
1. Tulips originated in Central Asia hundreds of years ago and were brought to Turkey, where they became an important part of the local culture
2. The word "tulip" comes from the Turkish word for turban. This name is sometimes attributed to the tulip's turban-like shape and other times is thought to have been because the Turkish would wear a tulip stem in their turbans
3. Tulips migrated to Europe in the mid 16th century and where a phenomenon in the Netherlands by the 17th century
4. So called Tulip Mania hit during the Dutch Golden Age, causing the tulip market to bubble to huge proportions before crashing down. It was one of the first-ever speculative market bubbles
5. At the peak of Tulip Mania, from around 1634-1637, some single bulbs were said to be priced more than ten times the annual income of wealthy skilled craftsman
Image Source: Shutterstock
6. The Netherlands are still the world's largest producer and exporter of tulips worldwide
7. There are 75 recognized species of tulips and over 3000 varieties
8. The gorgeous streaking that paints the petals of some tulips was originally caused by a viral infection, but today this desirable broken coloring effect is the deliberate result of breeding
9. Tulips start as bulbs, which are living plants with self-contained nutrients rather than seeds
10. Bulbs must be planted in the Fall if they are to blossom in the Spring because a long, dormant period of cool temperatures is needed in order for the biochemistry to occur that causes them to flower
Image Source: Shutterstock
11. Tulips can also be "forced" into blooming if they are stored in a cold place like the refrigerator for a minimum of 12 weeks
12. Tulips are part of the Lily family and are classified a herbaceous perennials
13. Their petals are said to be edible, but unpleasant tasting; however, we don't recommend eating them
14. They come in a myriad of colors but the most famous is Queen of the Night, a dark and dramatic purple so deep it looks black
15. Blossoms are impressively symmetrical in most varieties
Moana, Trolls, and More Are Coming to Netflix in June For Kids!
If you've got a kiddo who's obsessed with Moana or Trolls, rejoice! The two hit kid movies from last year are hitting Netflix this month, along with some new seasons of Netflix original series and a few other must-see kid flicks. The weather may be warming up, but a good old-fashioned Netflix binge in the air conditioning never hurt nobody.
Ahead, everything that's slated to hit Netflix in June for kids (and see the full lineup for adults here).
Summer Dream Workout - in a Pool!
Cool off while you workout, but skip the crawl and backstroke. You can burn a bunch of calories in the pool - no swimming required. Here are five moves that will get your heart rate up while keeping you refreshed. Add our favorite ab and core exercises into your watery workout to target your middle, too.
8 Things You Don't Know About Aldi, Straight From an Insider Employee
We reached out to an Aldi spokeswoman, Liz Ruggles, to find out the answers to our burning questions. How is it possible that everything is so cheap?! Turns out, there's a good reason for that and for the mandatory quarter per cart . . . oh, and for the self-bagging, too. Curious about the behind the scenes of one of the most budget-friendly grocery stores in America, one that attracts 32 million customers each month? Read ahead to get the scoop.
There's a reason prices are so low.
"We're obsessed with value, and by taking a simple approach to grocery shopping, we're able to keep our costs down. We don't have hidden expenses because we choose to save shoppers money rather than have nonessential grocery store services like in-store banking, pharmacies, and check cashing. We also skip the fancy shelving and keep our products right in their display boxes, which saves us (and our shoppers) time and money. We are dedicated to reducing our impact on the environment. So we ask our shoppers to bring their own reusable grocery bags or buy a few at checkout to use for all their trips to Aldi. At our stores, shoppers also pack their own groceries to keep our checkout lines moving."
There's a strategy behind the mandatory purchase of a cart for a quarter.
"Shoppers deposit a quarter to use a cart at our stores, and when they return the cart to the corral, they get their quarter back. This saves everyone money because our staff can focus on serving shoppers inside the store instead of collecting the carts from outside of the store. For many people, this becomes an opportunity to pay it forward. Our shoppers will often just pass their cart onto the next shopper, instead of returning it to the corral."
Aldi has in-house test kitchen chefs.
"We have in-house taste testers, aka our Aldi Test Kitchen Chefs. Our chefs hit pause on developing recipes at least twice a year to taste the quality of our products before they hit the shelves - every single Aldi product. They want to make sure our brands are as good, if not better, than the national brands."
You can return any Aldi-exclusive product for a full refund.
"We're so confident in the quality of our products that we offer a double guarantee, which means if for any reason customers don't like an Aldi-exclusive brand product, we'll give them their money back and replace the item."
Aldi donates expired foods.
"Each of our divisions has the option to contribute to local charities, donate product to causes in their areas, and encourage employees to volunteer with local community organizations. In 2015, we also grew our partnership with Feeding America to make it easier for our stores to donate expired or lightly damaged product to food banks in our communities."
The best way to save money is to buy Aldi-exclusive brands.
"Smart shoppers have found that switching from national brands to Aldi-exclusive brands can save them up to 50 percent on their grocery bill. We also have Aldi Finds - these premium food and household products are only in stores for a limited time. Product variety depends on the season, and there's usually a theme for the week's Finds. For example, starting Dec. 7, we have some great gift options."
Fresh produce is among the bestselling products.
"In 2015, our top selling products included staple items such as eggs, milk, and butter, as well as our fresh produce items such as strawberries, bananas, grapes, and oranges. Additionally, with our Never Any! product line, we offer fresh meat that never contains added antibiotics, hormones, or animal byproducts."
There's no MSG, artificial coloring, or hydrogenated oil in Aldi's products.
"Aldi got rid of added MSG, certified synthetic colors, and partially hydrogenated oils from all of our exclusive brand food products. And more than 90 percent of the products on our shelves are under our exclusive brands."
If You're Thinking About Sticking Around For a Wonder Woman Postcredits Scene, Don't
Superhero films and Easter-egg-filled postcredits scenes practically go hand in hand these days. Marvel is particularly fond of the trend, recently packing in a whopping five end-credits scenes in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. For anyone annoyed by the practice (and I'm with you, because the bathroom line is crazy by the time all of those names go by), Wonder Woman skips out on including a postcredits scene entirely. It's not exactly surprising, either, since the DC Universe hasn't exactly embraced adding extra scenes. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice neglected to include one, although Suicide Squad did (as well as Man of Steel back in 2013).
Wondering why? "I'm not going to say we'd never do one," producer Chuck Roven explained to Cinemablend recently. "There was one in Suicide Squad. But I don't think that we want to feel that we're forced to do something just because we didn't in the past." Luckily, director Patty Jenkins's take on the kickass female superhero is strong enough to survive excluding a gimmicky tease for Justice League. As of Wednesday afternoon, Wonder Woman is sitting pretty at 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, which is higher than its Marvel counterparts (The Avengers scored 92 percent, and Iron Man has 94 percent) and leaps and bounds above Batman v Superman (which has 26 percent) and Suicide Squad (25 percent). If you want to stick around just to enjoy the incredible theme song playing over the credits, though, feel free.
Smart Money Moves to Make After Losing Your Job
The following post was originally featured on GOBankingRates.
When you have overcome the shock of losing your job - and, likely, your main source of income - organizing your finances can have a calming effect. The sooner you make a plan, the easier it will be to cope with your change of circumstances.
Despite being near the top of the list of life's biggest stressors, being fired, being demoted or seeing a change in your financial state does not have to spell doom and gloom. Recent jobs numbers from the US Department of Labor show a marked decline in unemployment, a signal that opportunities do exist for you to reclaim your space in the work force.
In the meantime, use these tactics to deal with short-term demands on your wallet and longer-term financial obligations and ease this stressful financial situation.
The Adorable Reason Hugh Jackman Ignored His Wife For a Week When They First Met
It's clear to anyone that Hugh Jackman is extremely smitten with his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, and it's been like that since the moment they met. The Logan star first fell for the actress while working one of his first acting jobs on the Australian TV show Correlli. "She was the star and I had this major crush on her," he told Ellen DeGeneres in 2016. "Everyone did. The whole crew had a crush on her and I was so embarrassed by that."
Hugh was so starstruck, he went on to reveal, that he actually didn't talk to her for a week. But after some awkward silences, she confronted him at a dinner party with the rest of the cast. "She said, 'What's the matter, have I annoyed you? You're not talking to me anymore. What have I done wrong?'" he explained to the host. "I said, 'Oh, look, I've got a crush on you, I'll get over it.' And she went, 'Oh, really,' and I was like, 'Oh, this is bad.' And she goes, 'Yeah, I got one on you, too.' And I'm like, 'Oh, great!' So that was it." Twenty-one years and two kids later, the couple are still going strong.
9 Bug-Repellent Beauty Products to Aid Your Battle Against Mosquitoes
We're always looking for new ways to fend off mosquitoes, but with the advent of Zika virus, our casual search has evolved into a full-time quest. The New York Times reported about a handful of chic perfumes that actually repel these pesky insects courtesy of ingredients like IR3535, citronellol, and lemongrass oil. However, we knew that there just had to be more products on the market that efficiently did the same job.
After some deep digging, we came up with nine different formulas that will not only make you smell delicious but also help protect you against dangerous bites. If you decide you don't want to splurge on one of these, you can always turn to your trusty jar of Vicks VapoRub!
This Is Why Alessandra Ambrosio's Street Style Is Always So Damn Good
We've never seen a street style look Alessandra Ambrosio has worn that we didn't immediately want, but we're still surprised to see the Brazilian model upping her game year after year. Just when we think she's the most stylish she's ever been, bam, she walks out in an even better outfit.
So far this year, she has shown us athleisure can be sexy in a revealing top, reinforced the power of Winter pastels in a gorgeous maxi dress, and demonstrated that going back to basics with a white sweater and jeans is never a bad idea. Scroll ahead to see those looks and more, and feel totally inspired!
Couples Reveal the 1 Thing They Won't Tell Their Friends
Everyone has secrets or things that he or she doesn't want to share with anyone. Why would couples be any different? That intimacy and closeness has to come with a large dose of trust and a certain amount of exclusivity. While many couples I asked were hesitant to share anything that could incriminate them, these couples shared some of the funny, serious, and daily things that they don't share with anyone else besides each other!
- "We don't share the amount of money we win or lose when we gamble."
- "I don't tell others when we fight or how much money we make."
- "Neither of us share our fights or our sex life . . . so people think we're the perfect couple. Little do they know!"
- "We don't share what we say when we discuss our future or how lucky we feel to have met each other that sometimes, we just cry. We also hold off on sharing any emotional secrets or things we discuss."
- "We don't share our medical problems or trials."
- "Sometimes, we don't share if we have plans or not, because sometimes, we just want to be left alone, at home together."
- "We don't share our really big dreams - whether they're our individual or family ones. That's the one thing we keep just to each other, and no one else."
- "We can't tell you because we don't share it with others."
The Adorable Reason Hugh Jackman Ignored His Wife For a Week When They First Met
It's clear to anyone that Hugh Jackman is extremely smitten with his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, and it's been like that since the moment they met. The Logan star first fell for the actress while working one of his first acting jobs on the Australian TV show Correlli. "She was the star and I had this major crush on her," he told Ellen DeGeneres in 2016. "Everyone did. The whole crew had a crush on her and I was so embarrassed by that."
Hugh was so starstruck, he went on to reveal, that he actually didn't talk to her for a week. But after some awkward silences, she confronted him at a dinner party with the rest of the cast. "She said, 'What's the matter, have I annoyed you? You're not talking to me anymore. What have I done wrong?'" he explained to the host. "I said, 'Oh, look, I've got a crush on you, I'll get over it.' And she went, 'Oh, really,' and I was like, 'Oh, this is bad.' And she goes, 'Yeah, I got one on you, too.' And I'm like, 'Oh, great!' So that was it." Twenty-one years and two kids later, the couple are still going strong.
9 Bug-Repellent Beauty Products to Aid Your Battle Against Mosquitoes
We're always looking for new ways to fend off mosquitoes, but with the advent of Zika virus, our casual search has evolved into a full-time quest. The New York Times reported about a handful of chic perfumes that actually repel these pesky insects courtesy of ingredients like IR3535, citronellol, and lemongrass oil. However, we knew that there just had to be more products on the market that efficiently did the same job.
After some deep digging, we came up with nine different formulas that will not only make you smell delicious but also help protect you against dangerous bites. If you decide you don't want to splurge on one of these, you can always turn to your trusty jar of Vicks VapoRub!
J.K. Rowling Says This Theory About Draco Malfoy Isn't True but We're Skeptical
Most Harry Potter fans can agree that Draco Malfoy is a bully who deserves zero sympathy from anyone. While most of his behavior is inexcusable, one theory about the sixth and seventh books might make you reconsider your thoughts on Draco and the Malfoy family. The theory suggests that as a form of punishment ordered by Voldemort, Draco was bitten and became a werewolf.
This isn't a new theory, but recently resurfaced in an Imgur post and still exists on the website Draco Malfoy Is a Werewolf. It states that Draco was bitten by Fenrir Greyback after Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix takes place because of Lucius' mistakes. Lucius failed to retrieve the prophecy and previously let one of Voldemort's horcruxes get destroyed in the second book. As Remus Lupin shares in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Greyback is often used by Voldemort to punish his enemies by letting him bite children and turn them into werewolves. In the same book, Harry starts to notice how pale and different Draco acts. He presumes to think it's because Draco is now a death eater, but with the theory in mind, it's actually because he's a werewolf. It's also why Draco has a close relationship with Severus Snape, as only he could brew the Wolfsbane potion for Draco.
Since Draco was no longer a true pure-blood, it also explains why the Malfoy's end up betraying Voldemort in the last book and leaving him behind. They could no longer abide by and fight for pure-bloods because of Draco, so they saw no reason to continue supporting Voldemort.
Though this theory is severely convincing, J.K. Rowling took to Twitter to dispel it in 2015. Someone tweeted at Rowling the question of whether Draco was a werewolf and Rowling said she hadn't seen it - and that it wasn't true. You can see it below.
I've never seen that one before. Draco definitely isn't a werewolf (and Snape's not a vampire). https://t.co/TSliADJvyi
- J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 2, 2015
Even though Rowling has essentially shut down this theory, we're still hoping it was true. It would make up for Draco's attitude towards Harry and everyone else.
13 Movies and TV Shows You've Seen Alexis Bledel in Besides The Handmaid's Tale
We all fell in love with Alexis Bledel as Rory in Gilmore Girls, but the actress has been gracing the big and small screens for years. Do you remember her as Lena Kaligaris in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants alongside America Ferrera and Blake Lively? Or as Winnie Foster in Tuck Everlasting? We are taking a look back at all of her other roles in celebration of her newest one in The Handmaid's Tale.
13 Movies and TV Shows You've Seen Alexis Bledel in Besides The Handmaid's Tale
We all fell in love with Alexis Bledel as Rory in Gilmore Girls, but the actress has been gracing the big and small screens for years. Do you remember her as Lena Kaligaris in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants alongside America Ferrera and Blake Lively? Or as Winnie Foster in Tuck Everlasting? We are taking a look back at all of her other roles in celebration of her newest one in The Handmaid's Tale.
1 Woman Is Going Viral For Her Life-Saving Curly Hair Tips
Four year transformation, all from learning how to take care of my curls from curlyhair
Learning to properly care for and embrace your curly hair can be a bit of a struggle filled with endless trial and error. One woman finally has it down to a science, but it took her four years to get there. Reddit user capslockramen is going viral on Reddit for sharing the details of her dramatic hair transformation, along with her daily routine for keeping her luscious curls in check.
She posted before-and-after photos that show just how drastic her hair journey has been. The "before" snapshot was taken during her senior year of high school when she "hated" her curls so much that she "got a relaxed curl perm, bleached it blond, and straightened [her] hair five to six days a week, without using quality heat protectant." But that all changed when she went off to college, where she decided to let her blond perm grow out and started experimenting with different products until she found exactly what works best.
Four years later, she's mastered the art of taming her curls and finally loves her springy ringlets just as they are. "I've never felt more in love with my hair," she wrote in the Reddit post. She also shared her step-by-step styling routine, which is detailed below.
- After shower, squeeze excess water from hair.
- Flip head upside down.
- Apply generous amount of Cantu leave-in conditioner. Run fingers through hair to ensure even distribution.
- Scrunch in generous amount of Miss Jessie's MultiCultural Curls cream.
- Scrunch out excess water using a cotton t-shirt.
- Wrap hair in said t-shirt.
- Stand upright again and let hair sit in the shirt about 10 minutes.
- Flip head upside down again and remove t-shirt.
- Dry with hair drying facing toward the scalp. Use a diffuser! Put the heat settings on warm (not hot) with the speed on high.
- Scrunch hair with t-shirt while drying. This part usually takes me like 20 minutes (definitely have to take breaks so all the blood doesn't rush to my head and make me pass out).
- When it's close enough to completely dry, spray with medium-hold hairspray. Stand back up normally and fix where I want the part, hairspray that a little.
- Done!
Once her detailed routine went viral, amassing nearly 800 comments, the woman responded to other users' questions with various other tips and tricks for managing curls every day.
- Make sure your hairstylist cuts your locks while they're dry, and avoid using a razor to thin it.
- She opts for using a shampoo without sulfates three to four times per week.
- Worried about messing up your hair overnight? Try sleeping with a silk cap on or put it in a loose bun using an elastic ribbon as a hair tie.
- Brush out your locks before you shower, not after.
When celebrity hairstylist Oscar Blandi caught wind of this woman's viral hair hacks, he gave additional helpful recommendations for gals with curly manes. Instead of using a t-shirt to dry your hair like the Reddit user suggested, Blandi told Yahoo Beauty how a Turkish towel, which is highly absorbent, may be a better option. "Press the towel on your hair, don't rub it all over your hair," he said. "Rubbing your wet, curly hair will create frizz." After that, apply leave-in conditioner, and then a silicon oil-based product with just a dab of gel. "The combination will keep the hair soft and not crunchy," he said.
At the end of the day, experimentation is key for people with curly hair, but this woman's routine and tips seem like a great place to start if you're looking to kick-start a journey to embracing your ringlets in their gorgeous natural state.
13 Designs to Try When You're Bored With Your Braids
Braids are easily one of the most versatile ways to wear your hair. Whether you're weaving your plaits with streaks of color or styling small sections as accents, there are numerous ways to get creative with your mane. You can style classic cornrows and single braids straight back to the nape of your neck and add in intricate patterns like zigzags and curves or hints of color to really personalize your look. We've rounded up some fun braid designs that will give your Summer protective style some creative new life. Scroll through to check them out.
16 Sexy Books That Should Be on Your Must-Read List This June
As Summer starts heating up, so should your ereader with these must-reads for June! The list is long, action-packed, and full of sexy romances. Thanks to this batch of hot new books, this may be your steamiest Summer yet!
Solve the Brain-Teaser That Is Driving People on Facebook Insane
Hmm... Can you solve this?
I honestly have NO clue! I hope you guys can tell me ☆ SHARE and see if your friends Can! ☆
FOLLOW ME! ☺☺☺
Posted by Lisa Woelke on Friday, January 29, 2016
Facebook user Lisa Woelke shared a brain-teaser that has been driving the Internet nuts. The post - which has been shared by more than 170,000 users - depicts a math equation with fruit items in lieu of numbers. For example, it can be deduced from the first line that one apple is equivalent to the number 10. Harmless enough, right? Wrong.
The most common answer for the remaining final line was 16 - and you shouldn't be discouraged if that's the answer you arrived at . . . it just isn't the correct one. The final answer is actually 14. You might be asking yourself, "What the what?" as you ponder the degeneration of your math skills, but it's OK. We can work through this together.
So yes, one apple equals 10, one banana bunch equals four, and the coconuts equal two. However, the final line alters the coconuts and bananas so that they are each missing one, respectively. In the case of the last line, there is only one coconut - equaling one - and three bananas in the bunch, which equal three. So one apple (10) plus one coconut (one) and three bananas (three) equal 14. Voilà!
The Truth About Using Coconut, Argan, and Other Natural Oils on Your Hair
Hair care brands are finally figuring out that healthy, natural ingredients are more effective in treating issues than synthetic junk. Good, right? As long as those hair oils actually work.
It's common to see natural oils, like argan, macadamia, and jojoba, in hair treatments, but are you getting the biggest bang for your buck with these? And what has actually been proven to work on treating hair issues? Let's take a look at the most popular hair oils and see if the touted benefits are warranted or wannabe.
Argan Oil
This ingredient is first on the list for a reason. Argan oil has seen a surge in hair care popularity in recent years, namely due to one mainstream Moroccan-inspired product line. Yes, the oil is healthy and nourishing. It holds powerful benefits when used on most skin types. I investigated whether it delivers these same amazing results to hair.
There are certainly no shortage of articles plugging the advantages of argan oil as a hair treatment. Go ahead and google it. You'll discover a day's worth of reading. The problem is, there are no studies proving argan oil actually helps to improve hair loss, hair growth, damage, or frizziness.
While the oil does make hair look shiny, don't mistake this for true moisturization and repair. Most mainstream companies who include argan oil in products also add synthetic emollients to give hair a short-lived shiny look and smooth feel.
Castor Oil
This oil is often boasted as a hair thickener and growth promoter. But if you're seeking a remedy to thinning hair, hold off on the castor oil. While there are pictures of castor oil improving hair thickness, experts believe this may be due to the oil sticking to hair. Because castor oil is very thick itself, it can create the illusion of fullness. My advice - don't waste your money on this ingredient if you are looking to treat thinning hair.
Macadamia Oil
This oil is a favorite among natural product makers because of its smoothness and spreadability and is often used to treat and prevent dryness. While the ingredient may be beneficial for smoothing and softening certain skin types, and even as part of a healthful diet, there is no research backing its ability to prevent or repair dryness in hair.
Jojoba Oil
This is the most closely matched oil to those your epidermis produces naturally and can be an essential component in a healthy skin care routine. As for hair care? Not so much. This mild oil won't hurt locks, but it also won't provide the results you are after.
Jojoba is thought by some to moisturize hair, plus people like that it is lightweight and scentless. And, like argan oil, jojoba makes hair look shiny. But research has found it lacks the ability to penetrate the hair strand, so it cannot actually repair the hair or reverse dryness. Save this oil for skin.
Coconut Oil
This oil has made its way into everything from makeup to mouthwash so it's no surprise that it's a hair care celebrity too. But can it walk the talk?
Coconut oil is used to soften, moisturize, create shine, smooth frizziness, boost hair growth, diminish thinning hair, and add body. That's a lot of beauty benefits. The best news is that this one can deliver.
There is also research to back it up. A 2001 study by Princeton University shows virgin coconut oil has the ability to fully penetrate the human hair shaft, getting to the cortex and repairing damage where it starts. Also, government studies show the vitamin-rich oil helps to increase hair strength by reducing protein loss.
Bottom Line
Don't mess around with ingredients that aren't up to the job. Hair masks that contain high-quality organic virgin coconut oil, like St. Tropica Coconut Oil Hair Mask ($4), deliver research-backed benefits in a purely healthy product for your hair.
13 Designs to Try When You're Bored With Your Braids
Braids are easily one of the most versatile ways to wear your hair. Whether you're weaving your plaits with streaks of color or styling small sections as accents, there are numerous ways to get creative with your mane. You can style classic cornrows and single braids straight back to the nape of your neck and add in intricate patterns like zigzags and curves or hints of color to really personalize your look. We've rounded up some fun braid designs that will give your Summer protective style some creative new life. Scroll through to check them out.
The Truth About Using Coconut, Argan, and Other Natural Oils on Your Hair
Hair care brands are finally figuring out that healthy, natural ingredients are more effective in treating issues than synthetic junk. Good, right? As long as those hair oils actually work.
It's common to see natural oils, like argan, macadamia, and jojoba, in hair treatments, but are you getting the biggest bang for your buck with these? And what has actually been proven to work on treating hair issues? Let's take a look at the most popular hair oils and see if the touted benefits are warranted or wannabe.
Argan Oil
This ingredient is first on the list for a reason. Argan oil has seen a surge in hair care popularity in recent years, namely due to one mainstream Moroccan-inspired product line. Yes, the oil is healthy and nourishing. It holds powerful benefits when used on most skin types. I investigated whether it delivers these same amazing results to hair.
There are certainly no shortage of articles plugging the advantages of argan oil as a hair treatment. Go ahead and google it. You'll discover a day's worth of reading. The problem is, there are no studies proving argan oil actually helps to improve hair loss, hair growth, damage, or frizziness.
While the oil does make hair look shiny, don't mistake this for true moisturization and repair. Most mainstream companies who include argan oil in products also add synthetic emollients to give hair a short-lived shiny look and smooth feel.
Castor Oil
This oil is often boasted as a hair thickener and growth promoter. But if you're seeking a remedy to thinning hair, hold off on the castor oil. While there are pictures of castor oil improving hair thickness, experts believe this may be due to the oil sticking to hair. Because castor oil is very thick itself, it can create the illusion of fullness. My advice - don't waste your money on this ingredient if you are looking to treat thinning hair.
Macadamia Oil
This oil is a favorite among natural product makers because of its smoothness and spreadability and is often used to treat and prevent dryness. While the ingredient may be beneficial for smoothing and softening certain skin types, and even as part of a healthful diet, there is no research backing its ability to prevent or repair dryness in hair.
Jojoba Oil
This is the most closely matched oil to those your epidermis produces naturally and can be an essential component in a healthy skin care routine. As for hair care? Not so much. This mild oil won't hurt locks, but it also won't provide the results you are after.
Jojoba is thought by some to moisturize hair, plus people like that it is lightweight and scentless. And, like argan oil, jojoba makes hair look shiny. But research has found it lacks the ability to penetrate the hair strand, so it cannot actually repair the hair or reverse dryness. Save this oil for skin.
Coconut Oil
This oil has made its way into everything from makeup to mouthwash so it's no surprise that it's a hair care celebrity too. But can it walk the talk?
Coconut oil is used to soften, moisturize, create shine, smooth frizziness, boost hair growth, diminish thinning hair, and add body. That's a lot of beauty benefits. The best news is that this one can deliver.
There is also research to back it up. A 2001 study by Princeton University shows virgin coconut oil has the ability to fully penetrate the human hair shaft, getting to the cortex and repairing damage where it starts. Also, government studies show the vitamin-rich oil helps to increase hair strength by reducing protein loss.
Bottom Line
Don't mess around with ingredients that aren't up to the job. Hair masks that contain high-quality organic virgin coconut oil, like St. Tropica Coconut Oil Hair Mask ($4), deliver research-backed benefits in a purely healthy product for your hair.
Whoops! Venus Williams May Have Just Revealed the Sex of Serena's Baby
The Williams sisters clearly aren't good at keeping secrets. Just a month after Serena accidentally announced her pregnancy on Snapchat, her sister made a slip-up about the sex of the baby during an interview with Eurosport on Wednesday. After winning the second round of the French Open, Venus joked about possible baby names, saying, "She's going to call me 'favorite aunt.' Every day we're like, 'Baby Vee, baby Isher, baby Lyn,' so we all want the baby to be named after us." Whoops!
Serena is engaged to Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian, and earlier this month, the couple made their red carpet debut at the Met Gala. Perhaps George Clooney's mom has some damage-control advice for Venus?
The Other Man Involved in Princess Diana and Prince Charles's Love Square
Princess Diana's tumultuous 11-year marriage to Prince Charles was plagued with scandals, including rumors of infidelity and paternity questions. While Charles's affair with Camilla Parker Bowles was hardly a secret, there was a fourth person involved in his and Diana's love square: James Hewitt. Diana carried on an affair with James behind Charles's back in the late '80s. He was initially hired to teach Diana, William, and Harry horseback riding, and in a 1995 tell-all interview, Diana confessed to their five-year relationship. Diana claimed to have loved him, but the couple ended up breaking things off when James was deployed to serve in the Gulf War.
Diana passed away in a tragic car accident in August 1997, and James caused another scandal when he tried to sell her love letters after her death. James made headlines again in 2011 when he admitted to contemplating suicide following their affair. At around the same time, rumors began swirling that James was Prince Harry's biological father (it's worth noting that James and Diana didn't even meet until 1986 - two years after Harry was born). While James has always denied the claims, he was recently asked point-blank about the rumor during an interview with Australia's Sunday Night, to which he replied, "No, I'm not. It sells papers . . . It's worse for [Harry] probably, poor chap." Diana and Charles separated in late 1992, but it wasn't until August 1996 that their divorce was finalized.
Inside the Queen's Balmoral Photo Album
With its 50,000 acres of misty moors, vast lochs, and wide open spaces, it's no wonder that the queen's Scottish Highlands residence, Balmoral, is one of her favorite places to be. Every Summer without fail, her majesty heads north for a couple of months, and her family all come and visit while she's in residence - but what do they get up to when they're there? Over the decades, an intriguing stash of photos have amassed, showing insight into the lives of the queen and her loved ones at their least guarded - and proving it has been the backdrop for some very intimate family moments.
The Other Man Involved in Princess Diana and Prince Charles's Love Square
Princess Diana's tumultuous 11-year marriage to Prince Charles was plagued with scandals, including rumors of infidelity and paternity questions. While Charles's affair with Camilla Parker Bowles was hardly a secret, there was a fourth person involved in his and Diana's love square: James Hewitt. Diana carried on an affair with James behind Charles's back in the late '80s. He was initially hired to teach Diana, William, and Harry horseback riding, and in a 1995 tell-all interview, Diana confessed to their five-year relationship. Diana claimed to have loved him, but the couple ended up breaking things off when James was deployed to serve in the Gulf War.
Diana passed away in a tragic car accident in August 1997, and James caused another scandal when he tried to sell her love letters after her death. James made headlines again in 2011 when he admitted to contemplating suicide following their affair. At around the same time, rumors began swirling that James was Prince Harry's biological father (it's worth noting that James and Diana didn't even meet until 1986 - two years after Harry was born). While James has always denied the claims, he was recently asked point-blank about the rumor during an interview with Australia's Sunday Night, to which he replied, "No, I'm not. It sells papers . . . It's worse for [Harry] probably, poor chap." Diana and Charles separated in late 1992, but it wasn't until August 1996 that their divorce was finalized.
Inside the Queen's Balmoral Photo Album
With its 50,000 acres of misty moors, vast lochs, and wide open spaces, it's no wonder that the queen's Scottish Highlands residence, Balmoral, is one of her favorite places to be. Every Summer without fail, her majesty heads north for a couple of months, and her family all come and visit while she's in residence - but what do they get up to when they're there? Over the decades, an intriguing stash of photos have amassed, showing insight into the lives of the queen and her loved ones at their least guarded - and proving it has been the backdrop for some very intimate family moments.
Survey Shows More Millennial Women Are Saying "F*ck It" and Not Shaving Their Armpits
A new study shows that increasingly more and more women are ditching razors and embracing their body hair - but more specifically, their armpit hair.
Mintel, a Chicago-based market research company, conducted a survey of 2,000 internet users in the UK aged 16 or older to learn more about their beauty habits. The survey discovered that 77 percent of women aged 16 to 24 removed their underarm hair in 2016, which is actually down from the 84 percent of women who shaved their pits in 2014. That means nearly one in four women from that sample group are saying "f*ck that" to razors.
The data also showed that a whopping 83 percent of women from that same age group agreed there's "too much pressure on women to remove or groom body hair." We couldn't agree more with that one!
Now, although we can't quite generalize this data to encompass all women, as only 2,000 were surveyed, we must admit that we, too, have noticed a widespread movement toward going au naturel in the armpit department. Despite backlash for doing so, many celebrities like Paris Jackson and Bella Thorne have chosen to shun the shaver, along with other nonceleb women who have proudly shared snapshots of their grown-out hairs on social media. This Mintel study might just be the proof we need that hairy pits are here to stay. So, would you forgo your razor this Summer?
Survey Shows More Millennial Women Are Saying "F*ck It" and Not Shaving Their Armpits
A new study shows that increasingly more and more women are ditching razors and embracing their body hair - but more specifically, their armpit hair.
Mintel, a Chicago-based market research company, conducted a survey of 2,000 internet users in the UK aged 16 or older to learn more about their beauty habits. The survey discovered that 77 percent of women aged 16 to 24 removed their underarm hair in 2016, which is actually down from the 84 percent of women who shaved their pits in 2014. That means nearly one in four women from that sample group are saying "f*ck that" to razors.
The data also showed that a whopping 83 percent of women from that same age group agreed there's "too much pressure on women to remove or groom body hair." We couldn't agree more with that one!
Now, although we can't quite generalize this data to encompass all women, as only 2,000 were surveyed, we must admit that we, too, have noticed a widespread movement toward going au naturel in the armpit department. Despite backlash for doing so, many celebrities like Paris Jackson and Bella Thorne have chosen to shun the shaver, along with other nonceleb women who have proudly shared snapshots of their grown-out hairs on social media. This Mintel study might just be the proof we need that hairy pits are here to stay. So, would you forgo your razor this Summer?
The Heartbreaking Thing Prince William Told Diana After She Lost Her Title in the Divorce
When Prince Charles and Princess Diana ended their marriage in 1996, their oldest son, Prince William, was just 14 years old. At the time, he was a student at Eton College studying biology, art history, and geography and playing soccer and water polo. He hadn't yet begun his official royal duties or military career. For all intents and purposes, he was a normal teenager - besides, you know, the whole being king one day thing - and most normal teenagers are pretty bummed about their parents splitting up. But as second in line to the British throne, William recognized his (future) power and made a promise to his mother that is both incredibly adorable and incredibly heartbreaking.
Charles and Diana's divorce was finalized in August 1996, but some drama surrounding her royal title ensued. Queen Elizabeth II reportedly wanted to let Diana keep the style of her royal highness, but Charles was "adamant" that she give it up - instead, she was given the title Diana, Princess of Wales. The loss of the honorific separated Diana from the rest of the family in such a way that she had to curtsy to those who had it, including her own children. William is said to have comforted his mother after the loss of her title by saying, "Don't worry, Mummy, I will give it back to you one day when I am king."
Tragically, Diana was killed in a car crash just a little over a year after William made his touching vow to her. In the decades after her death, both he and his brother, Harry, have opened up about their mother, sharing stories about their time with her as well as honoring her impact, both with the charities they support and the traditions she's passed on to them.
The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist
Real talk: road trips are the best kind of trip. Not only do you save money on expensive plane tickets, but you're also able to enjoy gorgeous countryside scenery and bond with your best friends. To really kick your travels into high gear, put on this playlist that's perfect for the car. Sit back, relax, and turn it up!
- "Send Me on My Way," Rusted Root
- "One For the Road," Arctic Monkeys
- "Rome," Phoenix
- "Adventure of a Lifetime," Coldplay
- "The Long Way Around," Dixie Chicks
- "Vacation," Thomas Rhett
- "Fly Away," Lenny Kravitz
- "Magic Carpet Ride," Steppenwolf
- "Life Is a Highway," Rascal Flatts
- "The World at Large," Modest Mouse
- "Pink Cadillac," Bruce Springsteen
- "On the Road," Angus Stone and Julia Stone
- "Blowin' in the Wind," Stevie Wonder
- "Drive," Halsey
- "Mud on the Tires," Brad Paisley
- "Road Trippin'," Red Hot Chili Peppers
- "Sail," AWOLNATION
- "A Thousand Miles," Vanessa Carlton
- "Leavin'," Jesse McCartney
- "Drive," Incubus
- "Cruise," Florida Georgia Line
- "Parachute," Otto Knows
- "Run [I'm a Natural Disaster]," Gnarls Barkley
- "Mountain Sound," Of Monsters and Men
- "Time Is Running Out," Muse
- "Highway to Hell," AC/DC
- "Goodbye Town," Lady Antebellum
- "Fly," Sleeping With Sirens
- "Gasoline," Rob Thomas
- "Let's Leave," Ida Maria
- "Come With Me Now," KONGOS
- "Freedom," Pharrell Williams
- "Ain't No Rest For the Wicked," Cage the Elephant
- "Fast Car," Tracy Chapman
- "Runnin," Adam Lambert
- "Day Tripper," The Beatles
- "Cadillac, Cadillac," Train
- "Behind the Wheel," Depeche Mode
- "Island in the Sun," Weezer
- "Rocky Mountain High," John Denver
- "Little Red Wagon," Miranda Lambert
- "Australia," The Shins
- "Runaway Baby," Bruno Mars
- "Vacation," The Go-Go's
- "One Headlight," The Wallflowers
Remember, you will need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists.
10 Colorful Travel Accessories That Will Turn Baggage Claim Into a Rainbow
Pumped for you next vacation? Let your travel accessories match your mood! We curated a selection of our favorite colorful picks so that you can get to your next destination in style. Time to shop!
Air pollution results in 7,700 premature deaths in Canada each year, report says
Air pollution cost Canadian families an estimated $36 billion in 2015 due to premature death and illness, a new research report says.
Golden Milk: The Antidepressant, Debloating, Weight-Loss-Boosting Wonder Drink
Ready to simmer down and give your body a boost before bedtime? We've got the perfect, healthy nightcap for you, and you may have heard of it: golden milk.
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, golden milk is a combination of the powerful spice turmeric, coconut milk, and sometimes coconut oil. Black pepper is often added (in small amounts) to increase the bioavailability of (i.e., your body's ability to absorb) the superspice turmeric. Creamy and spicy, soothing and warm - this delicious drink is more than just a tasty treat. Rich in electrolytes and digestive-aiding properties, your body is going to love every sip.
- Benefits of Turmeric: Turmeric's benefits are so good, one 2013 study said it's almost too good to be true. The anti-inflammatory spice has "shown therapeutic potential against a number of human diseases," including cancer and could even help with Alzheimer's. Because of the reduced inflammation, turmeric can also help with gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort, and some studies have mentioned its help with weight loss. Also, some studies and sites have shown that turmeric has antidepressant properties, leading to better moods, less stress, better sleep, and improved brain health.
- Benefits of Coconut Oil: Similarly, coconut oil can help with digestion and gut health, thanks to its antimicrobial properties (which come from good fatty acids, MCFAs). The healthy fats can also raise your good cholesterol, HDL.
- Benefits of Coconut Milk: Did you know that coconut milk can also help with digestion? It "nourishes the digestive lining" with natural electrolytes and healthy fats, which can improve gut health and help with IBS. Like turmeric, it can help reduce inflammation and even aid in weight loss. MCTs, another kind of fatty acid, are found in coconut milk and help with physical performance - allowing you to build muscle and lose fat.
Ready to mix up a batch? We like flavoring with a little honey or agave and sometimes a bit of vanilla bean or vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger. You'll be sweetly sipping your way to health in no time!
Golden Milk: The Antidepressant, Debloating, Weight-Loss-Boosting Wonder Drink
Ready to simmer down and give your body a boost before bedtime? We've got the perfect, healthy nightcap for you, and you may have heard of it: golden milk.
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, golden milk is a combination of the powerful spice turmeric, coconut milk, and sometimes coconut oil. Black pepper is often added (in small amounts) to increase the bioavailability of (i.e., your body's ability to absorb) the superspice turmeric. Creamy and spicy, soothing and warm - this delicious drink is more than just a tasty treat. Rich in electrolytes and digestive-aiding properties, your body is going to love every sip.
- Benefits of Turmeric: Turmeric's benefits are so good, one 2013 study said it's almost too good to be true. The anti-inflammatory spice has "shown therapeutic potential against a number of human diseases," including cancer and could even help with Alzheimer's. Because of the reduced inflammation, turmeric can also help with gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort, and some studies have mentioned its help with weight loss. Also, some studies and sites have shown that turmeric has antidepressant properties, leading to better moods, less stress, better sleep, and improved brain health.
- Benefits of Coconut Oil: Similarly, coconut oil can help with digestion and gut health, thanks to its antimicrobial properties (which come from good fatty acids, MCFAs). The healthy fats can also raise your good cholesterol, HDL.
- Benefits of Coconut Milk: Did you know that coconut milk can also help with digestion? It "nourishes the digestive lining" with natural electrolytes and healthy fats, which can improve gut health and help with IBS. Like turmeric, it can help reduce inflammation and even aid in weight loss. MCTs, another kind of fatty acid, are found in coconut milk and help with physical performance - allowing you to build muscle and lose fat.
Ready to mix up a batch? We like flavoring with a little honey or agave and sometimes a bit of vanilla bean or vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger. You'll be sweetly sipping your way to health in no time!
87 Books by Women You Should Read Before You Die
Without women, some pretty amazing things wouldn't exist. Book-lovers know best that women have changed the world in so many important ways - oftentimes, with their words. We've rounded up more than 80 novels, essays, poem collections, and memoirs written by female writers. Everyone should read these literary works in their lifetimes.
Articles
