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.
lundi 5 juin 2017
We Bet You Didn't Know That Prince Harry's Real Name Isn't Harry
Prince Harry is by far one of our favorite royals. From his dashing good looks to his kind heart and willingness to help others, it isn't hard to tell why. While the 32-year-old has been in the spotlight for his entire life, there is one key fact we didn't know about him: his real name isn't Harry. Turns out, his birth name is Henry (full name Henry Charles Albert David Mountbatten-Windsor), a popular English name for kings. The word itself is loosely translated to mean "home ruler" (even though he's fifth in line for the throne). The fact that he uses a nickname is also pretty coincidental seeing that his girlfriend, Meghan Markle, also doesn't go by her birth name.
The 22 Things Our Editors Are Shopping This Month
Nothing, except maybe the thought of vacation, gets us as jazzed as Summer shopping. (And that might actually be because we're shopping for what we'd wear on vacation - but we digress . . . ) Our heads are filled with the thoughts of lazy Summer days, hot afternoons in the city, a few beachside getaways and the clothes we'll wear to everything. And, that's when we start filling our carts, too. Our editors hand-picked the essentials and the best new pieces to hit the internet, from new labels to watch to standby brands making fresh iterations of our favorites, this list is packed with everything you'll want to shop as you coast right into June and into Summer prime time.
15 Zumba Videos That Will Pump You Up With Some "Gasolina" and Make You Sweat
When Daddy Yankee's "Gasolina" was released 10 years ago, it became an instant hit, but the popular song has serious long-lasting power, continuing to rock our worlds even now. It makes sense: the beat of the song instantly makes you want to get up and dance the night away, which is why Zumba instructors on YouTube have combined it with amazing choreography. Grab a towel and keep scrolling to get some of the best Zumba videos to "Gasolina."
The 22 Things Our Editors Are Shopping This Month
Nothing, except maybe the thought of vacation, gets us as jazzed as Summer shopping. (And that might actually be because we're shopping for what we'd wear on vacation - but we digress . . . ) Our heads are filled with the thoughts of lazy Summer days, hot afternoons in the city, a few beachside getaways and the clothes we'll wear to everything. And, that's when we start filling our carts, too. Our editors hand-picked the essentials and the best new pieces to hit the internet, from new labels to watch to standby brands making fresh iterations of our favorites, this list is packed with everything you'll want to shop as you coast right into June and into Summer prime time.
What Parents Need to Do When Their Kid Comes Out as Transgender
Dayton has been advocating for LGBTQ rights since high school, when she did a complete 180 away from her upbringing and founded an alliance group. Since then she has remained vigilantly aware of the social and political issues facing her closest friends. She dreams of removing those obstacles, one article at a time.
We all have expectations for our kids. Of course, we encourage them to be whatever they want to their face. Your daughter can totally be the next pop sensation - who cares if she's tone deaf? Your son definitely has a career in pro gaming ahead of him. That's an easy job to break into. For the most part, we recognize that there might be some reality checks along the way, but we support their dreams! Because one of our many, many jobs as parents is to support our kids.
So then why do so many parents clam up when their kids come out as transgender? If we're willing to support our kids through the most improbable dreams, why can't we support their real identities? If something like feasibility doesn't stop us, why does gender? Do we just not know how to to be supportive, or are we just unsure of the entire situation?
No matter the reason, this moment of indecision or misplaced anger couldn't come at a worse time. You are one of the most important figures in your child's transition. Chelsea Williams, who has been a part of the LGBTQ community for years now since her fiancé is transgender, says that "parents can make or break their child's life . . . They can really make or break the transition."
So, no pressure.
Ahead, I'm gonna walk you through the entire process to make it as simple as possible. That way, you'll have absolutely no excuse for not supporting your child 110 percent.
What to Do When They First Come Out
This section can serve one of two purposes for you. It'll either prepare you for this conversation should your child ever come out as transgender, or it'll tell you exactly how you should've acted, if you feel you might have already made a mistake.
Now, you'll either be shocked or you won't when your child first comes out. Maybe you'll have a sneaking suspicion for a while, or maybe you'll be floored. If it's the latter, try and put your own feelings aside for just a moment, because these next couple minutes are crucial. It's more about them than it is about you.
Realize that if your child has approached you about being transgender, this is something they've given a lot of thought to.
Realize how difficult it has been for your child to confront you about this issue. They are baring a part of themselves for your acceptance, aware that you might reject a core part of their identity. You want to avoid doing that at all costs. Even if you are confused or disagree with them, do not reject them. Assure them that you still love them no matter what and do some research after the conversation.
If, after you've done some research, you still disagree with your child, understand that this is not something that you will ever be able to "argue" your child out of. I'll try to avoid making this a political or religious issue; just realize that if your child has approached you about being transgender, this is something they've given a lot of thought to. Rejecting the idea of their identity means rejecting your child.
What to Do Immediately After
First, ask what pronouns they'd like to go by and if they want to go by a different name. Their birth name might be gender neutral, or perhaps it has a special meaning in your family. This can be one of the hardest things to wrap your mind around. After all, you named your child; you picked that name for a specific reason. But your child is picking a new name for another, yet still valid, reason. Respect their choice; it's not a reflection on you as a parent!
(It'll take some practice to refer to them by their new name and appropriate pronouns. That's okay. They're probably expecting that and might have gone through something similar with their friends. Believe it or not, you probably weren't the first person your child told, especially if they're older.)
Next, be ready for a major style upheaval. They've probably always had a preference for one side of the traditional gender spectrum over the other, but now they can be overt about it. Trans boys might want baggier clothes, a trans girl might want more dresses. There are clothing exchanges you can participate in if you're not ready to purchase a whole new wardrobe.
It won't just be their clothes that change, though. Their hair, their shoes, and the smell of their deodorant may all change drastically. In fact, they might ask if they can change up their room. One of the best things you can do to show your support is to help them with these transitions. Redecorating your kid's room can be as simple as focusing on compatible color combinations, but don't just assume that boys like blue and girls like pink. There are affordable ways to redecorate. Get your child's opinion on it; even if you can't afford to redo their entire room, asking them their opinion on a specific pillow or comforter will show that you care.
Your child is still the same as they've always been, just freer.
Although constantly staying supportive is important, understand that not everything about your child will change. It can be easy to assume that everything about your child will flip, but that's not the case. Krispin Keyes, Williams's fiancé, advises parents to "remember that your child is still the same person they always have been." Adding, "My personality and interests haven't changed, just my name and pronouns." They might want a pink room, but still play football; they might want to cut off their hair, but still sing in choir. A person is not just made up of their gender - it is certainly a part of them, but that is not the whole package. Your child is still the same as they've always been, just freer.
How to Handle the Nitty Gritty
You want to reduce your child's gender dysphoria, which is a severe discomfort experienced when gender identity does not match up with outward physical appearance. Raising a teenager is always a challenge, but raising a transgender child through puberty is especially trying. There are a variety of options to reduce your child's gender dysphoria. If they haven't yet gone through puberty, at least pursue hormone blockers. Some changes resulting from puberty are extremely difficult to reverse.
On the other hand, if your child is already a teenager, there are alternatives. Some transgender men chest bind, some transgender women will stuff their bras. However, many eventually pursue hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This is an option that you may want to discuss with your child. Their decision to engage in HRT does not reflect how "really" transgender they are. Many transgender people decide not to pursue HRT or sexual reassignment surgery, but that doesn't mean that they were faking it or weren't serious about their transition.
Whatever their decision, do your research on some health hurdles. Chest binding can lead to uncomfortable rashes that you should know how to treat; HRT obviously drastically changes your child's body. Be prepared for mood swings, times two! Additionally, HRT and hormone blockers require a prescription; your child will likely require a diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a therapist. Check your local laws and talk to your family pediatrician/physician.
Regardless of specifics, you need to be supportive. Many parents see coming out as a way to get attention; it's not. Others see it as a phase; it's not. Still others see it as the death of one of their children; it's not. That is the attitude that Keyes's parents once adopted. "I'm not dead," Keyes says. "I'm just their son now."
Your child is still your child, and it's your responsibility to love them no matter what.
Your child is still your child, and it's your responsibility to love them no matter what. You might face different hurdles than other parents, but with patience, love, and this article, you are well-armed for the task. Especially given the uphill battle they'll probably face politically, professionally, and socially, they need you. Be understanding, be supportive, and be their parent.
It shouldn't be that hard.
We Bet You Didn't Know That Prince Harry's Real Name Isn't Harry
Prince Harry is by far one of our favorite royals. From his dashing good looks to his kind heart and willingness to help others, it isn't hard to tell why. While the 32-year-old has been in the spotlight for his entire life, there is one key fact we didn't know about him: his real name isn't Harry. Turns out, his birth name is Henry (full name Henry Charles Albert David Mountbatten-Windsor), a popular English name for kings. The word itself is loosely translated to mean "home ruler" (even though he's fifth in line for the throne). The fact that he uses a nickname is also pretty coincidental seeing that his girlfriend, Meghan Markle, also doesn't go by her birth name.
13 Long-Sleeved Swimsuits You'll Want to Slip Into ASAP
Long-sleeved swimsuits are on the rise, and the cool look is incredibly versatile. They're great for protecting your skin from the sun, or if you surf, wear them like rashguards. And from a fashion perspective, you can throw on pants or a skirt with the style and it doubles as a bodysuit - perfect for going from the beach straight to another event. If you want to try out the look, we rounded up our favorite long-sleeved swimwear. Would you test this silhouette?
How Might Prince William Have a Say in Meghan Markle's Engagement Ring?
If the rumors are to be believed, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be engaged sooner rather than later, and all eyes would be on the prince's choice of ring. Harry would have his pick of options and could source a vintage piece, splash out on a something by one of Meghan's favorite jewelers, or have the ring custom-made. However, the most likely option by far is that he would turn to his mother's jewelry collection so that there will be an unbreakable and fitting connection between his two great loves - his mother and his fiancée.
After Princess Diana's death, her jewelry was inherited by both of her sons, and therefore if Harry were to use one of his mother's pieces, he would be sure to run it past William first - even though the gesture would mainly be a formality. But which piece would Harry choose? There are rings that he could select, but perhaps the most likely option would be repurposing another piece of jewelry to transform it into an engagement ring.
The stone most often associated with Diana is the sapphire - not only did her engagement ring contain one, but she also owned many other pieces featuring the deep blue jewel, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and watches. Since the Duchess of Cambridge now wears Diana's most famous sapphire, it seems unlikely that Harry would choose the same stone for Meghan. However, since sapphire engagement rings have long been popular with the royal family - both of Princess Anne's engagement rings contained the stone - it might not be totally out of the question.
Harry's more likely choice could be an emerald. The queen gave Diana an emerald necklace as a wedding present - which the princess famously wore as a headband - so perhaps one of the stones could be set in a ring. Additionally, Prince Charles gave Diana an emerald bracelet and earrings as a wedding present, so the ring could be worn with these other meaningful pieces . . .
14 Celebrities You'd Be Surprised to Know Got Their Start on Broadway
When it comes to talent, these celebrities are triple threats. While stars like Sarah Jessica Parker and Meryl Streep are known for their groundbreaking TV and movie roles, you'd be surprised to know that they got their start singing and dancing on the stage. In fact, many of them still raise their incredible voices from time to time (looking at you, Anna Kendrick). Whether or not you're a theater nerd, you'll definitely appreciate some of these stars's humble beginnings on Broadway.
13 Long-Sleeved Swimsuits You'll Want to Slip Into ASAP
Long-sleeved swimsuits are on the rise, and the cool look is incredibly versatile. They're great for protecting your skin from the sun, or if you surf, wear them like rashguards. And from a fashion perspective, you can throw on pants or a skirt with the style and it doubles as a bodysuit - perfect for going from the beach straight to another event. If you want to try out the look, we rounded up our favorite long-sleeved swimwear. Would you test this silhouette?
Feel Like a Champ When You Complete This 200-Rep Workout
Ready for a fun challenge? This 200-rep workout is quick and efficient, and it requires no equipment. The workout is only four exercises, and you do 10 reps each, for a total of five rounds. Trust us - you got this. Get ready to bring on the reps!
How 2 Childhood Friends Harnessed the Power of Crystals and Built an Empire
Going into business with a lifelong friend can be messy, but Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro make it look easy. In fact, they credit their long personal relationship (they've known each other since they were just 6 years old!) with maintaining a balanced business partnership that just works.
Heather and Timmi started their healing crystal jewelry business, Energy Muse Jewelry, in California 17 years ago, long before crystals were a burgeoning trend. From humble car trunk beginnings, the duo created a crystal empire that now counts such high-profile performers and athletes as Lena Dunham and David Beckham among their clients.
Read ahead to find out how these two women harnessed their differences to create an effective partnership and a successful business. And be sure to check out their upcoming book, Crystal Muse, Everyday Rituals to Tune Into the Real You, publishing in October 2017.
POPSUGAR: When was the idea born to start Energy Muse? How did you get started?
Heather Askinosie: Thirty years ago, when I was selling luxury real estate in Southern California, a client asked me to find him a home with good feng shui. At that point in my life, I had no idea what feng shui was or the world of energy, and that's what truly opened the door for me. From there, I stumbled upon a crystal store and I was hooked. I began to live a double life, selling real estate by day and spending the nights with the crystals in this store. The more time I spent with them, the more I knew that I could no longer live this double life - I had to take a leap of faith. I used the money I'd saved from selling homes and traveled the world to study with indigenous healers, shamans, and medicine people who all bestowed their wisdom to me by word of mouth. When I returned, I wanted to test the knowledge and wisdom I'd gained to see how I could share this with more people - I've always been a skeptic by nature, so I had to see the results for myself. I made 10 necklaces combining my knowledge of feng shui and crystals. It was called Prosperity, and it incorporated jade beads and three Chinese coins tied with red string. I gave it to 10 of my friends - Timmi was one of them, as I knew she would be honest with me - asking them to wear it for 10 days and let me know what happened. Every single one of them came back with some sort of shift in prosperity. After that, everyone wanted to get their hands on one of these necklaces, but I had one problem - I didn't know how to produce product. That's where Timmi entered the picture.
Timmi Jandro: My background was in the garment industry, and I'd had the experience of learning all facets of a business - from sales to production to shipping to customer service. I got a small production team together, and we literally started selling product out of the trunks of our cars. Soon word spread to the Hollywood A-listers about this prosperity-bringing necklace. We were ushered into Hollywood parties to sell our "energy beads." It's like we were doing energy deals with the most influential and successful people, giving them a competitive edge. From there, we began to create more products for other intentions to grow our offerings. And that's how we got our start!
PS: You two have known each other since you were 6! What have you found are the advantages of having a business partner you've known for nearly your entire life?
HA: Blackmail. Just kidding! Because we've known each other for so long (and I also know all her astrological info), sometimes we don't even have to talk. We already know what the other one will say.
TJ: Trust. The trust factor is there, so a lot of the things that most business partners have to worry about, we don't.
PS: What do you think is the key to maintaining a healthy business partnership?
HA: I'm a starter and Timmi's a finisher. That's why our partnership works. I'm always into the new, researching things. I'm good at the initial burst, and then I'm on to the next thing. And Timmi likes to complete things and cross things off the list - she can follow up and finish the things I start.
TJ: We each bring a different skill-set to the business. I handle more of the operations, production, and sales, while Heather is the crystal expert and handles more of the big-picture ideas so that we are always on the leading edge of this industry.
PS: Congratulations on your upcoming book! What was the experience like of writing it together? And how did that experience of working together on the book compare to running your day-to-day business operations?
HA: At certain points, I felt like I was Timmi's therapist (I still need to send her a bill for my services). Due to being together for an exorbitant amount of time, we were forced to move through uncomfortable conversations, strict deadlines, and immense pressure - and came out better for it.
TJ: I mean, we almost killed each other at one point. Balancing the book, the business, and our families was a challenge for the year that we were writing the book. I feel that we both truly learned each other's processes by working so closely. I learned I can suffocate Heather with my planning, and I get anxiety from her lack of planning! We gained a greater appreciation and understanding of each other, both as friends and business partners.
PS: You've collaborated with so many interesting clients, from Lena Dunham to David Beckham - who has been the most exciting client to work with and why?
HA and TJ: If we remember correctly, our jewelry was the first gift that Jenna Dewan-Tatum and Channing Tatum gave each other when they first started dating. To meet them at the beginning of their careers and to see how open they were to the world of energy was truly inspiring. Also, working with pro athletes and Olympians has been something that has been very rewarding for us. It's such a mental game for them, and to see them push themselves to the next level - mentally, physically, and emotionally - really puts the whole mind, body, and spirit connection together.
PS: What has been the most rewarding aspect of running your business together?
HA: That you're not alone. You get to share the successes (and the failures) with someone. You have someone to go to the highs and lows with. Because that's the reality of being in business. We started our company out of the trunks of our cars, and now we are a global brand. And we did it purely on passion, purpose, and a vision.
TJ: There's always someone to bounce ideas off of and to work through things with someone you can trust. Looking back at the beginning of the business and seeing where we started and what we've built over the past 17 years is so special. And it's even better that there's someone to share it with.
PS: Any advice for other women considering following their passions to open their own business?
HA: You have to continue to have fun, to grow, and to learn. As women, we are so multidimensional. It's important for us to not get locked into a box. Keep curious and go beyond what you think you're capable of - because you're capable of way more than you think. It's cool to be a female-owned business because you can write your own rules - the sky is the limit.
TJ: Don't give up. Even if your idea or product may be ahead of its time. Stay authentic and true to yourself. And if you are living your life's purpose, you
will be successful.
The Best Cut and Styling Technique For Your Curly Hair, According to Selena Gomez's Stylist
You might be used to seeing Selena Gomez with straight hair, but the truth is she has curls for days. Her longtime hairstylist and Pantene partner Marissa Marino spilled the secret tips and tricks she gave Selena to keep her hair soft and conditioned through the Revival tour, breaking it down into easy steps you can follow, too. Straight ahead you'll find the best cut, styling technique, and treatments for your waves.
This Rainbow Baby's Birth Is Nothing Short of Beautiful
Some birth stories just touch you in a way you don't expect. When we came across photos of baby Liam's birth, we were originally taken with the images that Georgia-based photographer Rachel Smith shot. They're clean and crisp, and she captured every detail of the day so the family would have beautiful images to look back on as Liam grew. But it wasn't until we reached out to the photographer that we learned that Liam was a rainbow baby and that his birth was an extraspecial moment for his family.
Eighteen months earlier, Liam's parents, Erikah and Luke, were expecting a baby girl - Ailene Martina Messamer. Luke was deployed in Okinawa, Japan, when Erikah learned that baby "Ali" would be stillborn at 23 weeks and 3 days. The Red Cross worked to get Luke home in time for the birth, and after 33 hours of labor, Ali was born sleeping. A photographer from Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep captured photos of Ali and her parents so they'd have some memories to cherish.
Fast-forward 18 months and Erikah was nine months pregnant with baby Liam, whom she describes as "proof that there is life after loss." Read on to see the spectacular photos of Liam's birth and the look of pure joy on his parents' faces.
A Calorie-Burning Workout For People Who Hate to Run
We get it. Not everyone is in love with running. But we also know that cardio is an important component of being physically fit. This quick, no-running workout will leave you breathing hard - in the best way possible. The mix of bodyweight and plyometric exercises is perfect for building muscle while torching calories.
Here's the workout with directions. Keep scrolling for explanations on the moves.
The Handmaid's Tale Author: "With Trump, People Are Starting to See It Can Happen Here"
Image Source: Getty / Rich Fury
Margaret Atwood knows a thing or two about authoritarian governments. She was living in West Berlin in the 1980s at the time when she wrote The Handmaid's Tale, her classic novel about a dystopian America under the rule of authoritarian Christian men. During her time there, the German city was encircled by the Berlin Wall and the Cold War raged. Under the circumstances, she experienced some of what her main character, Offred, encounters in the republic of Gilead: namely, the feeling of being spied on and the clever ways people trade information under duress. But her research didn't stop there; she turned up several other instances of man-made oppression as she wrote like bans on reading and education, public executions, gag orders, slavery, the history of American polygamy, and the children of Argentina's "disappeared."
"When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here."According to Atwood, history's examples of crushing, dictatorial regimes are plentiful because "power can shift into the wrong hands easily and quickly when certain preconditions are present," she told POPSUGAR. "The availability of jobs and money are based on the principle of supply and demand, so when either of these becomes scarce, people panic and seek a change in leadership." Indeed, opportunistic would-be leaders know this.
In light of her seminal book becoming a new TV series on Hulu - and the uncomfortable parallels we're seeing between the story and our own political environment - we connected with the author to talk about literature, power, and the Populist movements sprouting up around the globe.
The Inciting Incident
Atwood hails from Canada, but legend has it her heritage can be traced back to Mary Webster, a woman accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts during the Salem witch trials. She says this personal history motivated her to write a story about a society that rounds up its women and strips them of their basic rights. And she was keen on sending Americans a message: don't think it can't happen here, because it already has. "When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here." Atwood's dystopian tale, something of an oracle, does feel as - if not more - relevant now than it's ever been.
The Recipe For a Dictatorship
In The Handmaid's Tale, there's a running theme throughout: a tug of war between the freedom from and the freedom to. Curious about this distinction, we asked Atwood which of these freedoms is most conducive to a healthy society. "People often think that one of these freedoms is preferable to the other," she said. "But each has their drawbacks when taken to the extreme. The key is finding a balance between the two."
She went on to describe the difference by sharing her recipe for a dictatorship. She asked us to draw a diagram as part of the exercise.
Following her instructions, we . . .
- Drew a large circle in the middle of a sheet of paper and dissected it with a line running from top to bottom, drawing arrows at both ends of the spectrum.
- Then, we labeled the arrow pointing upward "Dictatorship: Freedom From" and the arrow pointing downward "Anarchy: Freedom To."
- Next, we found the middle of the spectrum - which is also the center of the circle - and we marked it with a bullseye, labeling it "Center: A Balance of Both Freedoms."
- Finally, we wrote the words "Left" and "Right" in their respective halves of the circle.
With the diagram in front of us, she explained that a dictatorship promises its citizens the freedom from, which is a type of freedom best described as protection and security. On the opposite end of the spectrum, anarchy promises the freedom to, which is the freedom to do anything without consequence. A pair of quotes taken from chapter five of The Handmaid's Tale put this in context:
"There is more than one kind of freedom. Freedom to and freedom from. In the days of anarchy, it was freedom to. Women were not protected then. Now you are being given freedom from. Don't underrate it."
"Now we walk along the same streets, and no man shouts obscenities at us, speaks to us, touches us. No one whistles."
Atwood went on to say both the Right and the Left are capable of creating either a Dictatorship or Anarchy, although we can avoid these extremes by striking a balance between the ideologies. The bullseye - or sweet spot, as she calls it - is a perfect state of harmony where we enjoy our own individual freedoms without infringing upon others' freedoms. When we asked her how a government could achieve this balanced state, she was quick to reply: "A more equitable distribution of money in society."
She noted that in the US in the 1950s, for all its faults concerning civil and women's rights, there was a more even distribution of wealth than we have now. The result was the strongest middle class the world has ever seen, and in turn, a period of relative stability. Family units were more stable because they had savings in their coffers and the fear of ending up on the street was less of a threat. It's well documented that money (or the lack thereof) is the leading cause of stress in relationships, so for all the talk about "family values" in this country, it would behoove both the Right and the Left to put their money where their mouths are. Atwood says that when Trump talks about "making America great again," he's referring to this previous golden age of the American middle class, yet the policies he's proposing are in direct opposition to making this a reality.
Image Source: Netflix
The Thing That Will Save Us All
Our conversation with Atwood was sobering but not without brightness. We asked the author to share her thoughts on the role literature plays in society, and her response was hopeful:
"A novel is the closest you will ever get to being inside another person's mind. With film, it's visual; you're watching a character go through an experience, just as we do in our daily interactions with people. But with a novel, you are reading and processing a character's direct thoughts as they go through the highs and lows of the human experience. You are literally thinking their thoughts, therefore, it's the closest we can get to standing in another person's shoes. Studies have shown that reading literary novels increases our ability to experience empathy. No other art form can give you this same experience."
Empathy is hot topic right now. Educators at every level - from preschool teachers to college professors - are touting the benefits of social emotional learning and emotional intelligence. It seems they are catching on to what Atwood already knows: empathy may be our best hope for a healthy, unified society, and fiction is the conduit. Indeed, in a time rife with political uncertainty and an Us vs. Them way of thinking, literature - and the TV shows inspired by it - may be the thing that saves us all.
This Rainbow Baby's Birth Is Nothing Short of Beautiful
Some birth stories just touch you in a way you don't expect. When we came across photos of baby Liam's birth, we were originally taken with the images that Georgia-based photographer Rachel Smith shot. They're clean and crisp, and she captured every detail of the day so the family would have beautiful images to look back on as Liam grew. But it wasn't until we reached out to the photographer that we learned that Liam was a rainbow baby and that his birth was an extraspecial moment for his family.
Eighteen months earlier, Liam's parents, Erikah and Luke, were expecting a baby girl - Ailene Martina Messamer. Luke was deployed in Okinawa, Japan, when Erikah learned that baby "Ali" would be stillborn at 23 weeks and 3 days. The Red Cross worked to get Luke home in time for the birth, and after 33 hours of labor, Ali was born sleeping. A photographer from Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep captured photos of Ali and her parents so they'd have some memories to cherish.
Fast-forward 18 months and Erikah was nine months pregnant with baby Liam, whom she describes as "proof that there is life after loss." Read on to see the spectacular photos of Liam's birth and the look of pure joy on his parents' faces.
The Best Cut and Styling Technique For Your Curly Hair, According to Selena Gomez's Stylist
You might be used to seeing Selena Gomez with straight hair, but the truth is she has curls for days. Her longtime hairstylist and Pantene partner Marissa Marino spilled the secret tips and tricks she gave Selena to keep her hair soft and conditioned through the Revival tour, breaking it down into easy steps you can follow, too. Straight ahead you'll find the best cut, styling technique, and treatments for your waves.
A Calorie-Burning Workout For People Who Hate to Run
We get it. Not everyone is in love with running. But we also know that cardio is an important component of being physically fit. This quick, no-running workout will leave you breathing hard - in the best way possible. The mix of bodyweight and plyometric exercises is perfect for building muscle while torching calories.
Here's the workout with directions. Keep scrolling for explanations on the moves.
The Handmaid's Tale Author: "With Trump, People Are Starting to See It Can Happen Here"
Image Source: Getty / Rich Fury
Margaret Atwood knows a thing or two about authoritarian governments. She was living in West Berlin in the 1980s at the time when she wrote The Handmaid's Tale, her classic novel about a dystopian America under the rule of authoritarian Christian men. During her time there, the German city was encircled by the Berlin Wall and the Cold War raged. Under the circumstances, she experienced some of what her main character, Offred, encounters in the republic of Gilead: namely, the feeling of being spied on and the clever ways people trade information under duress. But her research didn't stop there; she turned up several other instances of man-made oppression as she wrote like bans on reading and education, public executions, gag orders, slavery, the history of American polygamy, and the children of Argentina's "disappeared."
"When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here."According to Atwood, history's examples of crushing, dictatorial regimes are plentiful because "power can shift into the wrong hands easily and quickly when certain preconditions are present," she told POPSUGAR. "The availability of jobs and money are based on the principle of supply and demand, so when either of these becomes scarce, people panic and seek a change in leadership." Indeed, opportunistic would-be leaders know this.
In light of her seminal book becoming a new TV series on Hulu - and the uncomfortable parallels we're seeing between the story and our own political environment - we connected with the author to talk about literature, power, and the Populist movements sprouting up around the globe.
The Inciting Incident
Atwood hails from Canada, but legend has it her heritage can be traced back to Mary Webster, a woman accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts during the Salem witch trials. She says this personal history motivated her to write a story about a society that rounds up its women and strips them of their basic rights. And she was keen on sending Americans a message: don't think it can't happen here, because it already has. "When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here." Atwood's dystopian tale, something of an oracle, does feel as - if not more - relevant now than it's ever been.
The Recipe For a Dictatorship
In The Handmaid's Tale, there's a running theme throughout: a tug of war between the freedom from and the freedom to. Curious about this distinction, we asked Atwood which of these freedoms is most conducive to a healthy society. "People often think that one of these freedoms is preferable to the other," she said. "But each has their drawbacks when taken to the extreme. The key is finding a balance between the two."
She went on to describe the difference by sharing her recipe for a dictatorship. She asked us to draw a diagram as part of the exercise.
Following her instructions, we . . .
- Drew a large circle in the middle of a sheet of paper and dissected it with a line running from top to bottom, drawing arrows at both ends of the spectrum.
- Then, we labeled the arrow pointing upward "Dictatorship: Freedom From" and the arrow pointing downward "Anarchy: Freedom To."
- Next, we found the middle of the spectrum - which is also the center of the circle - and we marked it with a bullseye, labeling it "Center: A Balance of Both Freedoms."
- Finally, we wrote the words "Left" and "Right" in their respective halves of the circle.
With the diagram in front of us, she explained that a dictatorship promises its citizens the freedom from, which is a type of freedom best described as protection and security. On the opposite end of the spectrum, anarchy promises the freedom to, which is the freedom to do anything without consequence. A pair of quotes taken from chapter five of The Handmaid's Tale put this in context:
"There is more than one kind of freedom. Freedom to and freedom from. In the days of anarchy, it was freedom to. Women were not protected then. Now you are being given freedom from. Don't underrate it."
"Now we walk along the same streets, and no man shouts obscenities at us, speaks to us, touches us. No one whistles."
Atwood went on to say both the Right and the Left are capable of creating either a Dictatorship or Anarchy, although we can avoid these extremes by striking a balance between the ideologies. The bullseye - or sweet spot, as she calls it - is a perfect state of harmony where we enjoy our own individual freedoms without infringing upon others' freedoms. When we asked her how a government could achieve this balanced state, she was quick to reply: "A more equitable distribution of money in society."
She noted that in the US in the 1950s, for all its faults concerning civil and women's rights, there was a more even distribution of wealth than we have now. The result was the strongest middle class the world has ever seen, and in turn, a period of relative stability. Family units were more stable because they had savings in their coffers and the fear of ending up on the street was less of a threat. It's well documented that money (or the lack thereof) is the leading cause of stress in relationships, so for all the talk about "family values" in this country, it would behoove both the Right and the Left to put their money where their mouths are. Atwood says that when Trump talks about "making America great again," he's referring to this previous golden age of the American middle class, yet the policies he's proposing are in direct opposition to making this a reality.
Image Source: Netflix
The Thing That Will Save Us All
Our conversation with Atwood was sobering but not without brightness. We asked the author to share her thoughts on the role literature plays in society, and her response was hopeful:
"A novel is the closest you will ever get to being inside another person's mind. With film, it's visual; you're watching a character go through an experience, just as we do in our daily interactions with people. But with a novel, you are reading and processing a character's direct thoughts as they go through the highs and lows of the human experience. You are literally thinking their thoughts, therefore, it's the closest we can get to standing in another person's shoes. Studies have shown that reading literary novels increases our ability to experience empathy. No other art form can give you this same experience."
Empathy is hot topic right now. Educators at every level - from preschool teachers to college professors - are touting the benefits of social emotional learning and emotional intelligence. It seems they are catching on to what Atwood already knows: empathy may be our best hope for a healthy, unified society, and fiction is the conduit. Indeed, in a time rife with political uncertainty and an Us vs. Them way of thinking, literature - and the TV shows inspired by it - may be the thing that saves us all.
There's 1 Clear Difference in Jennifer Lopez's Style This Year
Jennifer Lopez isn't wasting any time - she's hitting every red carpet and stepping out to run errands in outfits worthy of your attention.
We're only a few days into the year, and she's already giving us plenty to think about. For example, has her style gotten more demure? No, seriously, is this the year J Lo chooses high necklines and classic items like pussy-bow blouses instead of lots of cleavage? Only time will tell, but it looks like so far the singer, actress, and producer is switching things up and keeping us on our toes. Scroll ahead to see her best outfits this year so far.
There's 1 Clear Difference in Jennifer Lopez's Style This Year
Jennifer Lopez isn't wasting any time - she's hitting every red carpet and stepping out to run errands in outfits worthy of your attention.
We're only a few days into the year, and she's already giving us plenty to think about. For example, has her style gotten more demure? No, seriously, is this the year J Lo chooses high necklines and classic items like pussy-bow blouses instead of lots of cleavage? Only time will tell, but it looks like so far the singer, actress, and producer is switching things up and keeping us on our toes. Scroll ahead to see her best outfits this year so far.
Mom's Hilarious Photo Puts an End to Obnoxious Questions About Her Twins
"Oh, are those twins?!"
"Uh, yes, those two same-sized babies in my stroller are, in fact, twins. For the thousandth time." That's what Australian mom Annie Nolan was likely thinking when she drafted two signs answering 12 of the most-asked, most obnoxious questions she's gotten about her 2-year-old twin girls, Delphia and Cheska.
Although she didn't dare keep the signs affixed to her stroller while out and about, she did snap a photo to share on Facebook.
"As a twin mum, you get asked a series of questions [or] hear a series of statements every time you go out," she wrote on her Facebook post. "I know most people are coming from a great place and are just curious, however many can be quite intrusive and after a while it's just plain exhausting. And since I was heading into the city, I knew the questions would be coming thick and fast . . . but I chickened out on the train and took them off!"
Nonetheless, it seems people got her message. The photo has gone viral and has 23,000 "likes" and counting.
Still, we think that she should keep saying this the next time someone asks if those babies are twins:
Mom's Hilarious Photo Puts an End to Obnoxious Questions About Her Twins
"Oh, are those twins?!"
"Uh, yes, those two same-sized babies in my stroller are, in fact, twins. For the thousandth time." That's what Australian mom Annie Nolan was likely thinking when she drafted two signs answering 12 of the most-asked, most obnoxious questions she's gotten about her 2-year-old twin girls, Delphia and Cheska.
Although she didn't dare keep the signs affixed to her stroller while out and about, she did snap a photo to share on Facebook.
"As a twin mum, you get asked a series of questions [or] hear a series of statements every time you go out," she wrote on her Facebook post. "I know most people are coming from a great place and are just curious, however many can be quite intrusive and after a while it's just plain exhausting. And since I was heading into the city, I knew the questions would be coming thick and fast . . . but I chickened out on the train and took them off!"
Nonetheless, it seems people got her message. The photo has gone viral and has 23,000 "likes" and counting.
Still, we think that she should keep saying this the next time someone asks if those babies are twins:
This Is Not a Drill: Blueberry Pie Oreos Are Coming Back!
Depending on how you feel about Blueberry Pie Oreos, you'll either love or hate this news: they're making a comeback! Blueberry Pie and Fruity Crisp Oreos were both released in June 2016 for a limited time, and now, the pie-inspired flavor is returning to store shelves. According to Instagram user junkbanter, the Blueberry Pie Oreos will not be available at all grocery stores, but exclusively at the Supervalu chain, which includes stores like Shoppers, Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Shop 'n Save, and Hornbacher's. The cookies are set to return to shelves the week of June 5.
In case you haven't yet tried the Blueberry Pie flavor, here's what you should know before you crack open a package. The unique Oreos have an icing with purplish blue hue that gives off a strong blueberry scent as soon as you open the package. And our tasters agree that the vanilla cookie seems slightly different than the regular Golden Oreos, giving us hints of graham cracker and cinnamon. Overall, these were well liked among blueberry fans, but others think they're too sweet and claim that half of one cookie is all they could handle. They're certainly not the worst Oreos we've ever tried, and definitely not the strangest. We have a feeling Waffles & Syrup Oreos will earn that title.
19 Perfect Workout Outfits to Steal From Alessandra Ambrosio
When Alessandra Ambrosio isn't walking a runway or red carpet in designer outfits or sporting a boho street style look, she's in yoga pants. The avid yogi is often seen hitting the mat in Los Angeles, green juice in hand, and sometimes bringing her fiancé along for the fun.
So what does this all mean for us? Plenty of athletic outfit inspiration from the Brazilian Victoria's Secret model - just in case you need a little extra motivation to hit those early-morning gym sessions. From constellation-printed pants to fun cropped sweatshirts, if we had her impressive fitness wardrobe, you bet we'd be going to the gym even more. Keep scrolling to see Alessandra's best workout looks.
13 Sure-Fire Ways to Keep Your Family Cool at Disney World This Summer
There's only one place on Earth I can imagine is actually hotter than hell, and that, folks, is Walt Disney World in the throes of summertime. There's nothing that eliminates the magic from the Most Magical Place on Earth faster than the scorching sun rays and thick humidity Florida is faced with between June and August. However, there's so much appeal to going to Disney during the Summer since the kids are out of school, so to help you beat the heat, we've compiled our best tips.
Ahead, 13 ways to keep your family cool (and less cranky) during your Summer trip to Disney.
- Get FastPasses for rides with outdoor lines. Skip the hot and sunny waits as much as you can - book your FastPasses for those rides when possible so you can jump to the front and avoid baking in the sun.
- And wait in the lines that are partly or mostly covered, or better yet, in AC. Many rides in Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios fall into this category.
- If everything's a long wait, wait for the water rides. If you're going to be stuck waiting for a ride, make it Splash Mountain, Grizzly River Run, or Kali River Rapids. At the end of a long wait, you and your cranky kids can cool off ON the ride.
- Skip the character breakfast. Try to get in the longest wait lines first thing in the morning when everyone has the most energy and the sun isn't scalding hot yet.
- If your kids nap, take a nap break midday, then take advantage of late Extra Magic Hours. The EMH park of the day may be crowded, but you can take advantage of the early morning and late night hours when it's cooled off a bit (especially for Animal Kingdom, since so much is outdoors there).
- Or skip the Extra Magic Hours, since that'll be the most crowded park of the day. Then you can enjoy *slightly* shorter lines in another park.
- Avoid the Fourth of July. The Fourth is one of the most crowded park days of the year thanks to Magic Kingdom's Independence Day Fireworks (pro tip: they'll do the fireworks show on the night of July 3 as well).
- Bring a soft, insulated cooler. Hard coolers are a no-no, but a soft cooler with plenty of cold drinks will save you from spending tons of cash on water inside the park and will keep everyone hydrated (and pack a few wet washcloths in zip-up bags to cool off sweaty kiddos - and adults - throughout the day).
- Take an ice cream break. There are tons of quick stops for ice creams, slushies, and frozen yogurts in each park, or you can head to Gaston's Tavern in Fantasyland for a LeFou's Brew (frozen apple juice).
- Pack loose, sweat-wicking clothing for you and the kids. Loose clothes may seem like a no-brainer, but going out to purchase a few athletic tees and shorts for the whole family before the trip is worth the extra expense - no one will want to wear anything else.
- Bring a bathing suit and extra clothes for Epcot. Kids love playing in the fountains at Epcot, but nobody likes to be in wet clothes afterward, so don't forget a change of clothes (and a bag to put wet suits in!).
- Pack sunscreen, hats, and mist fans. Don't forget to slather everyone in sunscreen before heading to the park and throughout the day, wear hats to keep faces out of the sun, and bring a misting fan to walk around with in between rides (or grab a clip-on one for your little one's stroller).
- Hit the water parks. Sometimes it's just too dang hot not to spend the whole day at the water park - trust us, your kids will still have a ball.
A Multimillionaire Reveals the Best Thing About Being Crazy-Rich
Let's say you were handed $8 million today, no strings attached. What would you most look forward to about being rich? Buying a nice house or car? Traveling first-class? Quitting your job and enjoying all that unstructured time? According to one multimillionaire app developer on Reddit, none of these things comes close to the biggest satisfaction he gains from being rich: using his fortune to make others happy.
The millionaire, a Redditor named regoapps who says he's in his early 30s, admits that there certainly are aspects of happiness that money can buy. For example, the freedom of not answering to anyone is sugar-sweet. Not having to set an alarm or impress a boss is a huge relief. Additionally, being able to splurge on things that will save you time - for instance, skipping the TSA lines at the airport with Global Entry - is gratifying and makes you feel like you bought back all that personal time.
The best kind of splurging, however, is the kind you do for others. Regoapps sums up the best part of being rich like this:
It sucks to feel like your hands are tied and you can't help others. That's how I used to feel when I saw people struggling financially and I didn't have the money yet to do something about it. Nowadays I have funded other people's kids' college funds, tipped people much more than what I was paying for, custom built an Iron Man suit to cheer up kids at hospitals, helped get clean water to villages that before didn't have access to it, and etc. It feels great to be able to help, especially when I can do it anonymously and just walk away.
When it comes to spending money on others, I just splurge. Spending money on myself doesn't always make me that much happier. But I noticed that when I spend the money on others, they feel very, very happy. And seeing them smile makes me smile, too.
So maybe it's true that money can't buy love - but it can provide that warm and fuzzy feeling that comes from helping others.
This Is Not a Drill: Blueberry Pie Oreos Are Coming Back!
Depending on how you feel about Blueberry Pie Oreos, you'll either love or hate this news: they're making a comeback! Blueberry Pie and Fruity Crisp Oreos were both released in June 2016 for a limited time, and now, the pie-inspired flavor is returning to store shelves. According to Instagram user junkbanter, the Blueberry Pie Oreos will not be available at all grocery stores, but exclusively at the Supervalu chain, which includes stores like Shoppers, Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Shop 'n Save, and Hornbacher's. The cookies are set to return to shelves the week of June 5.
In case you haven't yet tried the Blueberry Pie flavor, here's what you should know before you crack open a package. The unique Oreos have an icing with purplish blue hue that gives off a strong blueberry scent as soon as you open the package. And our tasters agree that the vanilla cookie seems slightly different than the regular Golden Oreos, giving us hints of graham cracker and cinnamon. Overall, these were well liked among blueberry fans, but others think they're too sweet and claim that half of one cookie is all they could handle. They're certainly not the worst Oreos we've ever tried, and definitely not the strangest. We have a feeling Waffles & Syrup Oreos will earn that title.
13 Sure-Fire Ways to Keep Your Family Cool at Disney World This Summer
There's only one place on Earth I can imagine is actually hotter than hell, and that, folks, is Walt Disney World in the throes of summertime. There's nothing that eliminates the magic from the Most Magical Place on Earth faster than the scorching sun rays and thick humidity Florida is faced with between June and August. However, there's so much appeal to going to Disney during the Summer since the kids are out of school, so to help you beat the heat, we've compiled our best tips.
Ahead, 13 ways to keep your family cool (and less cranky) during your Summer trip to Disney.
- Get FastPasses for rides with outdoor lines. Skip the hot and sunny waits as much as you can - book your FastPasses for those rides when possible so you can jump to the front and avoid baking in the sun.
- And wait in the lines that are partly or mostly covered, or better yet, in AC. Many rides in Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios fall into this category.
- If everything's a long wait, wait for the water rides. If you're going to be stuck waiting for a ride, make it Splash Mountain, Grizzly River Run, or Kali River Rapids. At the end of a long wait, you and your cranky kids can cool off ON the ride.
- Skip the character breakfast. Try to get in the longest wait lines first thing in the morning when everyone has the most energy and the sun isn't scalding hot yet.
- If your kids nap, take a nap break midday, then take advantage of late Extra Magic Hours. The EMH park of the day may be crowded, but you can take advantage of the early morning and late night hours when it's cooled off a bit (especially for Animal Kingdom, since so much is outdoors there).
- Or skip the Extra Magic Hours, since that'll be the most crowded park of the day. Then you can enjoy *slightly* shorter lines in another park.
- Avoid the Fourth of July. The Fourth is one of the most crowded park days of the year thanks to Magic Kingdom's Independence Day Fireworks (pro tip: they'll do the fireworks show on the night of July 3 as well).
- Bring a soft, insulated cooler. Hard coolers are a no-no, but a soft cooler with plenty of cold drinks will save you from spending tons of cash on water inside the park and will keep everyone hydrated (and pack a few wet washcloths in zip-up bags to cool off sweaty kiddos - and adults - throughout the day).
- Take an ice cream break. There are tons of quick stops for ice creams, slushies, and frozen yogurts in each park, or you can head to Gaston's Tavern in Fantasyland for a LeFou's Brew (frozen apple juice).
- Pack loose, sweat-wicking clothing for you and the kids. Loose clothes may seem like a no-brainer, but going out to purchase a few athletic tees and shorts for the whole family before the trip is worth the extra expense - no one will want to wear anything else.
- Bring a bathing suit and extra clothes for Epcot. Kids love playing in the fountains at Epcot, but nobody likes to be in wet clothes afterward, so don't forget a change of clothes (and a bag to put wet suits in!).
- Pack sunscreen, hats, and mist fans. Don't forget to slather everyone in sunscreen before heading to the park and throughout the day, wear hats to keep faces out of the sun, and bring a misting fan to walk around with in between rides (or grab a clip-on one for your little one's stroller).
- Hit the water parks. Sometimes it's just too dang hot not to spend the whole day at the water park - trust us, your kids will still have a ball.
Experts Share the Perfect Snack For Maximum Weight Loss
It's not just for preschoolers! Snack time is important for adults, too, because it can satiate hunger between meals to prevent overeating and help you lose weight. Snacks can also be a way to get valuable nutrients you're missing from meals alone. But not all snacks are good ones. We've enlisted the expertise of two nutritionists - Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition - to share the perfect equation for how to choose a delicious and filling snack that will help you reach your weight-loss goals. Follow their advice below to start seeing results.
Calories
Aim for two 150-calorie snacks each day. Think of them as ways to fill nutrition holes in your diet, such as getting your fill of fiber or a boost of calcium.
Carbs
Anywhere from 40 to 50 percent of your calories at snack time should come from carbs, which works out to 14 to 20 grams. Choose high-fiber carbs such as fruit, whole grains, and starchy veggies like peas, corn, sweet potato, pumpkin, and Winter squash. Carbohydrates that are naturally high in fiber tend to be less refined and processed and also typically yield a larger portion size for fewer calories, making them more satisfying.
Protein
Go for six to 10 grams of protein, which is 15 to 20 percent of your total snack calories. Protein is essential in order to make what you nosh on feel more satisfying. Protein also helps to even out the rate that carbohydrates enter your bloodstream, so if you eat a snack that's low in protein, a spike in your blood sugar levels could result in stronger cravings and the need to munch on more.
Fats
Far should constitute 30 to 40 percent of your snack's calories, which works out to between six and 10 grams. Including healthy fats also adds to the "I feel satisfied" feeling. The one thing to watch out for is portion size, since fats like nuts, seeds, and avocado tend to be high in calories.
Fiber
Getting enough fiber in your snack - at least three grams - is a must to not only help you feel satiated for longer, but to also help you reach your daily goal of 25 grams. Getting your fill of fiber will ensure you stay regular, which can help you avoid that bloated feeling, making you feel more energetic. It can also help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which keeps cravings at bay.
Sugars
Aim for no more than 10 grams of total sugar and no more than four grams of added sugar (one teaspoon of honey, sugar, or maple syrup).
Timing
Most people like to include their two 150-calorie snacks between their three main meals, so one in the late morning and one in the late afternoon. A good rule of thumb is to eat every couple of hours, so find the schedule that works for you. Maybe you eat a later lunch and an earlier dinner so an afternoon snack isn't necessary but a bedtime snack is. Remember that experiencing a little hunger is OK, but snacking can prevent that famished feeling that makes people overeat. And eating late at night won't cause weight gain, but overdoing it on your daily calorie intake will. If you know you like to eat a little something before bed, make sure you save 150 calories in order to stick to your daily limit.
Eating and Working Out
If you're grabbing a pre-workout snack, aim for a 3:1 ratio of carbs to protein. After a workout, go for a 2:1 ratio of carbs to protein. A banana with some nut butter or a small smoothie is a great option. For workouts that are an hour or shorter, don't stress too much about getting the exact amount. As long as your snack includes a combo of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, and is under 150 calories, you're good! Generally it's good to enjoy a pre-workout snack 30 to 90 minutes before a workout, but eating beforehand isn't a necessity. Some people prefer working out on an empty stomach, so do what's right for you. Then refuel with a post-workout snack within 30 to 60 minutes.
A Few Examples of Snacks
The above info would make an ideal snack, but if you can't meet all the requirements, it's OK to fall short of one of these - fats, carbs, fiber, or protein - just make sure your snack meets the other three.
- Avocado Toast: Take half a slice of whole wheat bread, smear with one tablespoon avocado, and top with sliced or mashed hard-boiled egg, two slices of tomato, and an eighth-teaspoon sprinkling of chia seeds.
Calories: 156
Total fat: 8.2 g
Saturated fat: 2.2 g
Carbs: 13.6 g
Fiber: 4.3 g
Sugars: 2.7 g
Protein: 9.3 g
- Greek Yogurt With Apple and Walnuts: Enjoy a quarter-cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt with half an apple, four teaspoons chopped walnuts, half a teaspoon raisins, and a dash of cinnamon.
Calories: 149
Total fat: 6.2 g
Saturated fat: 0.4 g
Carbs: 17.3 g
Fiber: 3.1 g
Sugars: 12.7 g
Protein: 8.3 g - High-Protein Banana and Peanut Butter: Mix half a tablespoon of peanut butter with half an ounce of protein powder and half an ounce of water. Cut half a banana in half lengthwise. Smear the peanut butter mixture on half and then top with the other half of the banana.
Calories: 158
Total fat: 4 g
Saturated fat: 0.8 g
Carbs: 17.4 g
Fiber: 4.1 g
Sugars: 7.8 g
Protein: 13.6
- Roasted Edamame: Toss two cups frozen edamame with two teaspoons olive oil, one teaspoon sea salt, and one tablespoon black sesame seeds. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 450° F. Enjoy a quarter of the batch, and save the rest for later.
Calories: 153
Total fat: 8.3 g
Saturated fat: 1.1 g
Carbs: 10.5 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 8.3 g
Protein: 4 g
Snack Mistakes to Avoid
- Not enough variety: While a cheese stick seems like a healthy snack, it's only offering you protein, so you'll soon feel hungry afterward. To feel satiated, make sure your snack has at least two of these - carbohydrate, protein, and fat - or, better yet, aim for all three.
- Skipping: If you head into lunch and dinner completely starving, you know all too well how easy it is to eat way more calories than normal. Snacking between meals controls hunger, which controls cravings and can help you consume fewer daily calories.
- Not counting calories: A snack is just that - a snack. It's not a minimeal, so stick to that 150-calorie amount. Be mindful that prepackaged snacks like granola bars, protein bars, smoothies, or bags of crackers can offer almost 200 calories or more. On the same token, mindlessly reaching into a bag can result in devouring more than one portion without you even realizing it. So measure out your portion and put the bag away!
Looking to drop pounds during other times of the day? Here's what to eat for breakfast and lunch, and dinner to lose weight.
Why You Shouldn't Even Think About Asking the Royal Family For Autographs (or Selfies)
We're sorry to disappoint you, but if you ever get the chance to meet a member of the British royal family, please don't ask for an autograph. Not only is it a breech of royal protocol, but their likely response will be, "Sorry, they don't allow me to do that." Unlike celebrities, royals cannot afford to have their signature forged and possibly used against them at a later point. They may sign visitors books' or official documents, but autographs never. Back in 2010, Prince Charles surprised everyone when he broke protocol to sign an autograph for victims of the Cornwall floods. While meeting with a couple, he was asked, "Can I be really cheeky please Sir and can I have your autograph for my young son Tom? I'm not sure if you do autographs but it would make his day?" Charles then shocked his bodyguards when he asked one of them to find a piece of paper for him to sign. He wrote "Charles 2010" and even apologized for the "shaky writing" because he "never writes standing up."
And if you thought you could get away with a selfie, think again. Those same rules apply to selfies. In fact, Prince Harry isn't even a fan of them. While visiting the Australian War Memorial back in 2015, a young fan waiting among the crowd asked the young royal for a selfie, to which he replied, "No, I hate selfies. Seriously, you need to get out of it. I know you're young, but selfies are bad." He then made up for it by asking her to simply take a normal photo of him.
15 Perks of Getting Married in Your Early 20s (or Even Younger)
Remember when getting married in your early 20s was the norm? Now it seems like tying the knot young is a social faux pas that everyone is shying away from. First you go to school, then you graduate, establish a career, gain financial security, and then settle down with your SO. So where are the few who are defying the status quo? I searched them out, and I've found that there are actually many women in my life - whether they are friends from college, women I've worked with, or family members - who married young and have no regrets. So what is it about getting married young that has women saying "I do" before they even graduate college? I asked women who married between the ages of 18 and 23 to share what they believe to be the benefits of getting married at a young age and gathered their responses below:
- While you're young you can enjoy the complete life adventure with your closest friend.
- You and your spouse are not set in your ways quite yet. You can mold and shape each other as time goes on.
- You learn to compromise as you approach some of life's biggest decisions hand in hand.
- Support. When you're starting your career or in school or moving every couple years, it's so nice to have a cheerleader all the time.
- You're unavoidably poor when you're young, which helps you learn and gain financial stability together. When you start out with nothing, you learn to be grateful for anything.
- If you're looking to start a family, reproductively your body is better equipped to have babies at a younger age.
- You're used to making someone else your first priority.
- You celebrate many events and milestones together that people who marry later in life may not get the opportunity to.
- You grow up together.
- You let go of selfish habits before you develop them. It's not always about where you want to go or what you want to see, and you learn to involve another person.
- You learn most everything together, both literally and metaphorically, and can help enhance each other's education.
- You'll both have more energy, whether that's to work together, play together, or to chase after your kids together.
- Making plans for the future (for example, where you are going to live in the next few years, how many children you want, what kind of house you will buy, etc.) is easier because you've made the ultimate commitment and so you work as a unit.
- Your ambition and dreams don't stop just because you're married. You both get creative on how to achieve your personal and mutual goals.
- Marriage at a young age makes you both more accountable, to each other and to your individual goals.
The responses vary, but the consensus is the same: it truly doesn't matter what age you marry at, young or old, if you've found the person you love and you're ready to completely share your life with them.
19 Perfect Workout Outfits to Steal From Alessandra Ambrosio
When Alessandra Ambrosio isn't walking a runway or red carpet in designer outfits or sporting a boho street style look, she's in yoga pants. The avid yogi is often seen hitting the mat in Los Angeles, green juice in hand, and sometimes bringing her fiancé along for the fun.
So what does this all mean for us? Plenty of athletic outfit inspiration from the Brazilian Victoria's Secret model - just in case you need a little extra motivation to hit those early-morning gym sessions. From constellation-printed pants to fun cropped sweatshirts, if we had her impressive fitness wardrobe, you bet we'd be going to the gym even more. Keep scrolling to see Alessandra's best workout looks.
Experts Share the Perfect Snack For Maximum Weight Loss
It's not just for preschoolers! Snack time is important for adults, too, because it can satiate hunger between meals to prevent overeating and help you lose weight. Snacks can also be a way to get valuable nutrients you're missing from meals alone. But not all snacks are good ones. We've enlisted the expertise of two nutritionists - Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition - to share the perfect equation for how to choose a delicious and filling snack that will help you reach your weight-loss goals. Follow their advice below to start seeing results.
Calories
Aim for two 150-calorie snacks each day. Think of them as ways to fill nutrition holes in your diet, such as getting your fill of fiber or a boost of calcium.
Carbs
Anywhere from 40 to 50 percent of your calories at snack time should come from carbs, which works out to 14 to 20 grams. Choose high-fiber carbs such as fruit, whole grains, and starchy veggies like peas, corn, sweet potato, pumpkin, and Winter squash. Carbohydrates that are naturally high in fiber tend to be less refined and processed and also typically yield a larger portion size for fewer calories, making them more satisfying.
Protein
Go for six to 10 grams of protein, which is 15 to 20 percent of your total snack calories. Protein is essential in order to make what you nosh on feel more satisfying. Protein also helps to even out the rate that carbohydrates enter your bloodstream, so if you eat a snack that's low in protein, a spike in your blood sugar levels could result in stronger cravings and the need to munch on more.
Fats
Far should constitute 30 to 40 percent of your snack's calories, which works out to between six and 10 grams. Including healthy fats also adds to the "I feel satisfied" feeling. The one thing to watch out for is portion size, since fats like nuts, seeds, and avocado tend to be high in calories.
Fiber
Getting enough fiber in your snack - at least three grams - is a must to not only help you feel satiated for longer, but to also help you reach your daily goal of 25 grams. Getting your fill of fiber will ensure you stay regular, which can help you avoid that bloated feeling, making you feel more energetic. It can also help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which keeps cravings at bay.
Sugars
Aim for no more than 10 grams of total sugar and no more than four grams of added sugar (one teaspoon of honey, sugar, or maple syrup).
Timing
Most people like to include their two 150-calorie snacks between their three main meals, so one in the late morning and one in the late afternoon. A good rule of thumb is to eat every couple of hours, so find the schedule that works for you. Maybe you eat a later lunch and an earlier dinner so an afternoon snack isn't necessary but a bedtime snack is. Remember that experiencing a little hunger is OK, but snacking can prevent that famished feeling that makes people overeat. And eating late at night won't cause weight gain, but overdoing it on your daily calorie intake will. If you know you like to eat a little something before bed, make sure you save 150 calories in order to stick to your daily limit.
Eating and Working Out
If you're grabbing a pre-workout snack, aim for a 3:1 ratio of carbs to protein. After a workout, go for a 2:1 ratio of carbs to protein. A banana with some nut butter or a small smoothie is a great option. For workouts that are an hour or shorter, don't stress too much about getting the exact amount. As long as your snack includes a combo of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, and is under 150 calories, you're good! Generally it's good to enjoy a pre-workout snack 30 to 90 minutes before a workout, but eating beforehand isn't a necessity. Some people prefer working out on an empty stomach, so do what's right for you. Then refuel with a post-workout snack within 30 to 60 minutes.
A Few Examples of Snacks
The above info would make an ideal snack, but if you can't meet all the requirements, it's OK to fall short of one of these - fats, carbs, fiber, or protein - just make sure your snack meets the other three.
- Avocado Toast: Take half a slice of whole wheat bread, smear with one tablespoon avocado, and top with sliced or mashed hard-boiled egg, two slices of tomato, and an eighth-teaspoon sprinkling of chia seeds.
Calories: 156
Total fat: 8.2 g
Saturated fat: 2.2 g
Carbs: 13.6 g
Fiber: 4.3 g
Sugars: 2.7 g
Protein: 9.3 g
- Greek Yogurt With Apple and Walnuts: Enjoy a quarter-cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt with half an apple, four teaspoons chopped walnuts, half a teaspoon raisins, and a dash of cinnamon.
Calories: 149
Total fat: 6.2 g
Saturated fat: 0.4 g
Carbs: 17.3 g
Fiber: 3.1 g
Sugars: 12.7 g
Protein: 8.3 g - High-Protein Banana and Peanut Butter: Mix half a tablespoon of peanut butter with half an ounce of protein powder and half an ounce of water. Cut half a banana in half lengthwise. Smear the peanut butter mixture on half and then top with the other half of the banana.
Calories: 158
Total fat: 4 g
Saturated fat: 0.8 g
Carbs: 17.4 g
Fiber: 4.1 g
Sugars: 7.8 g
Protein: 13.6
- Roasted Edamame: Toss two cups frozen edamame with two teaspoons olive oil, one teaspoon sea salt, and one tablespoon black sesame seeds. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 450° F. Enjoy a quarter of the batch, and save the rest for later.
Calories: 153
Total fat: 8.3 g
Saturated fat: 1.1 g
Carbs: 10.5 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 8.3 g
Protein: 4 g
Snack Mistakes to Avoid
- Not enough variety: While a cheese stick seems like a healthy snack, it's only offering you protein, so you'll soon feel hungry afterward. To feel satiated, make sure your snack has at least two of these - carbohydrate, protein, and fat - or, better yet, aim for all three.
- Skipping: If you head into lunch and dinner completely starving, you know all too well how easy it is to eat way more calories than normal. Snacking between meals controls hunger, which controls cravings and can help you consume fewer daily calories.
- Not counting calories: A snack is just that - a snack. It's not a minimeal, so stick to that 150-calorie amount. Be mindful that prepackaged snacks like granola bars, protein bars, smoothies, or bags of crackers can offer almost 200 calories or more. On the same token, mindlessly reaching into a bag can result in devouring more than one portion without you even realizing it. So measure out your portion and put the bag away!
Looking to drop pounds during other times of the day? Here's what to eat for breakfast and lunch, and dinner to lose weight.
The Safe Place Prince Harry and Prince William Were When Diana Died
Princess Diana passed away in a tragic car accident in Paris in August 1997, and the abrupt loss of her life is still felt by both her family and the public that loved her. Diana, who had a tumultuous marriage to Prince Charles and a complicated relationship with the royal family in general before her death, didn't bring her children, Prince William and Prince Harry, with her during that fateful trip. Instead, the two boys, who were 15 and 12 at the time, were with their grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.
William and Harry were wrapping up spending the Summer with the queen at Balmoral Castle, a royal residence in Scotland. Since Diana's accident happened after midnight, the queen instructed her staff to not disturb the boys and to let them sleep in before telling them the news. She also reportedly had them remove all TVs and radios from the castle so the boys wouldn't hear gossip about their mother's death and could grieve in private.
Despite Queen Elizabeth receiving harsh backlash for the way she handled Diana's death, William later opened up about just how much his grandmother's consideration meant to him all those years ago. "Having lost my mother at a young age, it's been particularly important to me that I've had somebody like the queen to look up to and who's been there and who has understood some of the more complex issues when you lose a loved one," he said in the Sky News's documentary The Queen at 90. "She's been incredibly supportive and I've really appreciated her guidance."
The Safe Place Prince Harry and Prince William Were When Diana Died
Princess Diana passed away in a tragic car accident in Paris in August 1997, and the abrupt loss of her life is still felt by both her family and the public that loved her. Diana, who had a tumultuous marriage to Prince Charles and a complicated relationship with the royal family in general before her death, didn't bring her children, Prince William and Prince Harry, with her during that fateful trip. Instead, the two boys, who were 15 and 12 at the time, were with their grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.
William and Harry were wrapping up spending the Summer with the queen at Balmoral Castle, a royal residence in Scotland. Since Diana's accident happened after midnight, the queen instructed her staff to not disturb the boys and to let them sleep in before telling them the news. She also reportedly had them remove all TVs and radios from the castle so the boys wouldn't hear gossip about their mother's death and could grieve in private.
Despite Queen Elizabeth receiving harsh backlash for the way she handled Diana's death, William later opened up about just how much his grandmother's consideration meant to him all those years ago. "Having lost my mother at a young age, it's been particularly important to me that I've had somebody like the queen to look up to and who's been there and who has understood some of the more complex issues when you lose a loved one," he said in the Sky News's documentary The Queen at 90. "She's been incredibly supportive and I've really appreciated her guidance."
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