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.
mercredi 7 juin 2017
The $50 Flats Gal Gadot Wore With Her Designer Gown Prove She Really Is a Superhero
For some, the mere thought of wearing flats with a dress could evoke some major insecurities, but Gal Gadot is basically saying f*ck that and wearing flats to even the fanciest red carpet events. On Thursday, May 25, Gal stepped out for the Wonder Woman premiere in Hollywood wearing a stunning red sequined Givenchy gown and a pair of $50 gold-studded sandals from Aldo.
Not only is she a superhero on the big screen, but she's also becoming something of a superhero in the fashion world, too. In fact, Gal has been wearing flats for the majority of her press tour for the movie, and her reason for doing so is perfect.
When the mom of two was asked about her shoe choice, she spoke for every single heel-wearing human: "It's more comfortable! Yeah," she explained.
.@GalGadot has a very simple reason for wearing flats instead of heels to the #WonderWoman premiere. http://pic.twitter.com/P6ytSnjOIu
- Variety (@Variety) May 26, 2017
Keep reading to see more photos of Gal rocking flats throughout her press tour for Wonder Woman, and let her inspire you to ditch heels the next time you go out.
33 S'mores Recipes That Will Make Your Kids Go (Graham) Crackers
Marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers - three simple ingredients fuse together to become the most amazing dessert. That's right, we're talking s'mores - the ooey-gooey, melt-in-your-mouth (and all-over-your-hands) campfire treat that kids (and adults) go absolutely graham crackers for. We've rounded up 33 of the most delicious-looking s'mores recipes, from the classic and insanely easy to the completely mind-blowing, like s'mores pizza - no, we're not kidding. Scroll through, and try not to drool too much.
30 Times a Glimpse of Lauren Conrad's Interior Design Just Wasn't Enough
Ever since Lauren Conrad made up one-third of a dramatic love triangle in Laguna Beach (and later graduated to The Hills), she has been an idol to many of us 20-something females. I know my college roommates and I weren't alone when we gathered in our living room every week to watch the latest situations transpire with Speidi, Brody Jenner, or even Jen Bunney (remember her?). Aside from the drama, we all just really wanted to know: how could someone be so effortlessly beautiful, relatable, and interesting to watch, all at the same time?
These days, while Lauren is unfortunately not on reality TV anymore, there is another way we are all able to share in her flawless style, and that is through photos she shares on her addicting Instagram account. And while many of us automatically associate her with fashion, she applies her chic taste across many channels, including home decor. Read on to see some of the most swoon-worthy interior design posts straight from our girl LC (and yes, we dug down deep!).
You Can Use FastPass at Pandora - but Here's Why You Might Not Want To
If you plan on visiting Walt Disney World's Pandora in the coming months, be prepared to wait. Since the so-called World of Avatar opened on May 27, there have reportedly been massive lines to simply enter the land. Inside, both rides have had wait times upward of four hours. The unusually long wait times have prompted many to turn to Disney's popular FastPass reservation service.
Namely, the big question on everyone's mind is: can you book FastPass reservations for Avatar Flight of Passage and Na'vi River Journey? Fortunately, yes! On the official Walt Disney World website, it states that FastPass reservations can be made for Pandora's rides. Unfortunately, reservations can only be made for one Pandora ride per day. Once you select your ride of choice, you'll be able to select a limited window of time to claim your reservation. Visitors are then allowed to make reservations at two other attractions within Animal Kingdom.
Naturally, there's a little strategizing that can be done. For starters, Avatar Flight of Passage will certainly be the more popular ride as it is the thrill ride. The line also moves slower because it doesn't accommodate as many people as Na'vi River Journey does. If you plan on riding the immersive 3D ride, then you should use the FastPass service for Avatar Flight of Passage and just bear the Na'vi River Journey line.
Oh, but there's another obstacle: FastPass reservations sell out crazy-fast. If you're planning your trip in advance, set a reminder to make your reservation as soon as you're able to. Disney allows you to make a reservation 30 days before your visit or 60 days in advance if you're staying at an official Disney Resort hotel.
If you're unable to make a reservation for either attraction, that is just fine. The lines for both rides are actually filled with cool features that should make your wait a little less excruciating. Check out some select pictures from the respective lines to see what we're talking about.
33 S'mores Recipes That Will Make Your Kids Go (Graham) Crackers
Marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers - three simple ingredients fuse together to become the most amazing dessert. That's right, we're talking s'mores - the ooey-gooey, melt-in-your-mouth (and all-over-your-hands) campfire treat that kids (and adults) go absolutely graham crackers for. We've rounded up 33 of the most delicious-looking s'mores recipes, from the classic and insanely easy to the completely mind-blowing, like s'mores pizza - no, we're not kidding. Scroll through, and try not to drool too much.
I Tracked Every Dollar I Spent For a Month - and Sh*t Got Real
For 30 days straight, I wrote down every single dollar I spent. Yes, I know, you're thinking, "Girl, you're cray." Well, you're right. I didn't just estimate the cost or round up to the nearest cent. I meticulously snapped photos of receipts, used notes on my phone, and took videos of myself shopping.
If I went into a coffee shop and grabbed an overpriced latte, I wrote it down. If I went into Sephora and spent $103.95 on acne scrub and exfoliating masks, I wrote it down.
It was enlightening, it was mood-shifting, and it was just plain hard.
Tracking your spending is like the equivalent of counting calories. Both practices make you question your decision-making skills, both can transform your life in unique ways, but only one can set you up for financial success.
Here are the five things I learned from tracking my spending for one month.
1. Writing it down makes it real.
For me, using a financial app to track where my money is going doesn't quite provide the same type of accountability. When I put the costs into my notes, I started to realize that the money was actually gone. Finito. Vanished into thin air. Looking at the amount you spent at the end of each month doesn't make you feel, well, anything. Looking at the amount you spent in that moment, though? It makes you question whether the purchase was worth it. That $4.95 I spent on a skinny vanilla latte from Starbucks that was burnt? Total bummer. That $36.78 I spent catching up with old friends at Earl's? Total win.
2. I felt guilty. A lot.
These 30 days were more irregular than most months. I spent a ton more money than usual due to a wedding, some travel costs for an upcoming trip, and I also decided to update my Summer wardrobe. And although I knew these expenses were coming, it still didn't make it any easier to admit I was spending money on things I wouldn't normally consider necessities. I dropped $825 on hotels, a rental car, and flights. I spent over $500 on new clothes that would "look super cute in my Instagram photos." I beat myself up a lot for not saving that money and investing in my future, but I also realized that I enjoy treating myself when I can afford to. It got emotional.
3. One month is not long enough to fully understand my money habits.
Each month, I spend $1,290 on fixed costs. This includes rent, insurance, cable, internet, cell phone, and health. Over the 30 days I tracked my expenses, I spent $2,124 on variable costs. To say that I went a little bit overboard on the amount I have 100 percent control over is the understatement of the century. What I started to realize with this area of my budget is that they are variable because they're dictionary-defined as "liable to change." No month will ever be the same. If I want a true average for my spending habits, 30 days is not enough to gain a full scope of my financial situation. I'd recommend giving yourself a minimum of six months tracking spending.
4. I need to pump up my savings.
The best part about tracking your spending is figuring out whether you can dial back what goes out and fine-tune what goes in - to your savings account, that is. The realization for me was that I could spend money on things such as travel, clothing, and the occasional $43 parking ticket without fear of being stretched too thin. That said, all this really means is that if I spend less on dining out and entertainment, I'll be able to save more money for retirement and my investments.
5. It's worth it.
Anyone who reads an article claiming that something drastically changed someone's life only wants to know one thing: "Was it worth it?" To which I can confidently state, yes, 100 percent. For those of you who are struggling to create a budget, I'd say tracking your spending is a great place to start. For those of you looking to cut back but are unsure what your options are, tracking your spending is the eye-opener you need. When it comes to controlling your money and tackling your finances, everything that encourages responsible budgeting is worth it.
So, what are you waiting for? Get a pretty notebook, find a cute pen, and get the reality check your wallet needs.
12 Pretty Welo Opal Pieces That Will Fulfill All Your Mermaid Fantasies
We've been obsessed with opal for a while now, but if you spend a lot of your time looking back on the days of Lisa Frank binders and The Little Mermaid on VHS, the Welo opal will fill your fashion-loving heart with glee. Perfect for aspiring mermaids and '90s girls, this particular opal was discovered in the late 2000s near the town of Wegeltena in the Wollo Province of Ethiopia; the lighter background and vivid play of color differs from other Ethiopian opals and is commonly referred to as "Welo" or "Wollo."
The Welo opal's fun, striking patterns and hues range from neon oranges, yellows, and greens to turquoise and indigos, which aren't typically found in Australian opals - it would have made a perfect engagement ring stone for Ariel, don't you think? If you're ready to punch up your jewelry box and stun all your friends, shop the prettiest Welo opal pieces we could find.
6 Beauty Quick Fixes When Spring Allergies Attack
You know the feeling: you wake up to sunlight streaming through your window, jump out of bed, and practically prance down the street enjoying the fresh Spring air . . . until you're hit with it - allergy season. Suddenly, your eyes are watering behind your new aviator sunglasses, and you're rapidly searching your bag for a tissue to relieve your itchy, runny nose. For allergy sufferers, Spring brings just as much of a headache as it does happiness. But a bad reaction to pollen doesn't need to ruin your beauty look. So we caught up with celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg at Zyrtec event, where she offered six easy steps you can try in terms of skin care, makeup, and hairstyling. Trust us, your allergies need not cramp your beauty style.
1. Contour to combat a puffy face. When we wear black, we look slimmer. In the same way, shading and highlighting can help us chisel and define a puffy face. Using highlighter can also help draw attention to specific features, like cheekbones, and away from others.
2. Reduce redness. Too much tissue use can result in a dry, red nose. By applying a calming moisturizer, like an argan balm, we can soothe and hydrate skin before applying a green-colored primer to cancel out redness.
3. Make eyes pop. To make your eyes appear larger, the trick is to apply dark liner to the upper inside lash line. This will define the lash line and open the eye area. To make the eyes look wider and less red - especially when dealing with an allergy-affected face - apply a flesh tone or white eyeliner to the bottom water rim.
4. Embrace bare beauty. If you want to give your eyes a break from makeup, just using waterproof mascara and fake lashes allows you to "wake up" your face without having to wear any additional eye makeup.
5. Soften your look. When trying to counteract puffiness, straight hair is a huge no-no. To balance out a puffy face, opt for wavy styles to move attention away from puffy cheeks and soften your look.
6. Sweep allergens away. Using excess styling products like hair sprays and gels can often trap allergens. Instead, pull your hair back into a smooth braid or topknot to keep your hair and allergens away from your face.
Tame your allergies with our blueberry allergy shots! Head over to our Snapchat today for the recipe!
12 Pretty Welo Opal Pieces That Will Fulfill All Your Mermaid Fantasies
We've been obsessed with opal for a while now, but if you spend a lot of your time looking back on the days of Lisa Frank binders and The Little Mermaid on VHS, the Welo opal will fill your fashion-loving heart with glee. Perfect for aspiring mermaids and '90s girls, this particular opal was discovered in the late 2000s near the town of Wegeltena in the Wollo Province of Ethiopia; the lighter background and vivid play of color differs from other Ethiopian opals and is commonly referred to as "Welo" or "Wollo."
The Welo opal's fun, striking patterns and hues range from neon oranges, yellows, and greens to turquoise and indigos, which aren't typically found in Australian opals - it would have made a perfect engagement ring stone for Ariel, don't you think? If you're ready to punch up your jewelry box and stun all your friends, shop the prettiest Welo opal pieces we could find.
This Protest Sticker Speaks For Itself: "Take Trump, Bring Back Selena"
In Austin, TX, one online boutique is intent on "celebrating diversity" and "embracing nuestra cultura" with an array of badass, politically charged gear. Somar ATX began selling feminist t-shirts in 2014, with one of its earlier t-shirts combining the female gender symbol and pan dulce.
Recently, the brand released a line of merchandise with one bold statement that reads: "Take Trump, bring back Selena." The incredible protest slogan is currently available on stickers, priced at $5 each, or a t-shirt ($27), available in both black and white. What's more, it can barely keep the stickers in stock! They are currently available online, however, a recent Instagram post indicated that it only had a few left before the next restock.
Scroll ahead to check out the powerful stickers that are simultaneously an ode to the late Selena Quintanilla and a jab at the current president.
The Ultimate Guide to Summer Braids For Black Girls
Ever since I was a little girl, Summer was the time my mother would braid my hair. The styles took hours to create, and, of course, I never quite cooperated (which earned me several hand slaps with the comb). However the intricate cornrows would keep my hair untangled through weeks of swimming and day camp. But Summer braids aren't just reserved for little girls. Many of my friends are still making appointments to get plaits before a big vacation or to take a break from using hot tools for a few months with a protective style. Even Beyoncé and Solange Knowles rock twists when the weather gets warm! From Poetic Justice box braids to Zendaya's famous faux dreadlocks, I've broken down the best braids with extensions for Afro hair this season.
Katie Holmes Shares an Incredibly Sweet Bond With Her Daughter, Suri Cruise
Katie Holmes and her daughter, Suri Cruise, really do share a one-of-a-kind bond. While the Ocean's Eight actress has managed to keep the 11-year-old - whose father is Tom Cruise - mostly out of the spotlight, she has also posted a few precious snapshots of their adventures from time to time on social media. Whether they're catching a show in NYC, hanging out on set, or just playing dress-up at home, it's clear that these two share more than just looks.
Here's What Barack Obama Has Been Up to Since He Walked Out of the White House - and Our Lives
Barack Obama officially left the White House on Jan. 20, and he did so faster than we could say, "Don't go!" Since his departure, Barack has been fulfilling his passion for adventure and settled into permanent vacation mode (really, though, can you blame him?). While many of us are still longing for his return, the sad truth is that Barack is gone and off living his best life.
6 Beauty Quick Fixes When Spring Allergies Attack
You know the feeling: you wake up to sunlight streaming through your window, jump out of bed, and practically prance down the street enjoying the fresh Spring air . . . until you're hit with it - allergy season. Suddenly, your eyes are watering behind your new aviator sunglasses, and you're rapidly searching your bag for a tissue to relieve your itchy, runny nose. For allergy sufferers, Spring brings just as much of a headache as it does happiness. But a bad reaction to pollen doesn't need to ruin your beauty look. So we caught up with celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg at Zyrtec event, where she offered six easy steps you can try in terms of skin care, makeup, and hairstyling. Trust us, your allergies need not cramp your beauty style.
1. Contour to combat a puffy face. When we wear black, we look slimmer. In the same way, shading and highlighting can help us chisel and define a puffy face. Using highlighter can also help draw attention to specific features, like cheekbones, and away from others.
2. Reduce redness. Too much tissue use can result in a dry, red nose. By applying a calming moisturizer, like an argan balm, we can soothe and hydrate skin before applying a green-colored primer to cancel out redness.
3. Make eyes pop. To make your eyes appear larger, the trick is to apply dark liner to the upper inside lash line. This will define the lash line and open the eye area. To make the eyes look wider and less red - especially when dealing with an allergy-affected face - apply a flesh tone or white eyeliner to the bottom water rim.
4. Embrace bare beauty. If you want to give your eyes a break from makeup, just using waterproof mascara and fake lashes allows you to "wake up" your face without having to wear any additional eye makeup.
5. Soften your look. When trying to counteract puffiness, straight hair is a huge no-no. To balance out a puffy face, opt for wavy styles to move attention away from puffy cheeks and soften your look.
6. Sweep allergens away. Using excess styling products like hair sprays and gels can often trap allergens. Instead, pull your hair back into a smooth braid or topknot to keep your hair and allergens away from your face.
Tame your allergies with our blueberry allergy shots! Head over to our Snapchat today for the recipe!
The Ultimate Guide to Summer Braids For Black Girls
Ever since I was a little girl, Summer was the time my mother would braid my hair. The styles took hours to create, and, of course, I never quite cooperated (which earned me several hand slaps with the comb). However the intricate cornrows would keep my hair untangled through weeks of swimming and day camp. But Summer braids aren't just reserved for little girls. Many of my friends are still making appointments to get plaits before a big vacation or to take a break from using hot tools for a few months with a protective style. Even Beyoncé and Solange Knowles rock twists when the weather gets warm! From Poetic Justice box braids to Zendaya's famous faux dreadlocks, I've broken down the best braids with extensions for Afro hair this season.
32 Traits of a Good Boyfriend (According to Men)
We already know what makes a good girlfriend . . . but what makes a good boyfriend? It's a question for the ages, really. I asked guy friends, random dudes on social platforms, and, ah, last but not least, my boyfriend, in all his great boyfriend glory - what, specifically, makes an amazing male partner. The answers ranged from classic to thoughtful to downright f*cking adorable. Check it out.
- A good boyfriend respects his girlfriend.
- He surprises her with flowers.
- He always asks her how her day was.
- He's never too jealous (just a little bit, so she knows he values her).
- He communicates all the time.
- He's there for her, even when it's inconvenient.
- He lets her see his silliest self.
- He keeps the relationship interesting.
- He knows they're equals.
- He pushes her out of her comfort zone.
- He's humble.
- He watches movies with her (including romance films).
- He keeps the idea of marriage in mind.
- He trusts her no matter what.
- He doesn't try to change her opinions.
- He carves out time for her.
- He doesn't worry about being "whipped."
- He's loyal.
- He gives her space when she needs it.
- He remembers her birthday.
- He tells her she's beautiful.
- He's careful with his words.
- He tries his best to get along with her friends.
- He's affectionate.
- He listens to her.
- He puts her needs above his.
- He helps her grow personally.
- He's openminded.
- He treats her like they had just met.
- He's her friend as much as her boyfriend.
- He makes her laugh.
- He loves her wholly.
This Protest Sticker Speaks For Itself: "Take Trump, Bring Back Selena"
In Austin, TX, one online boutique is intent on "celebrating diversity" and "embracing nuestra cultura" with an array of badass, politically charged gear. Somar ATX began selling feminist t-shirts in 2014, with one of its earlier t-shirts combining the female gender symbol and pan dulce.
Recently, the brand released a line of merchandise with one bold statement that reads: "Take Trump, bring back Selena." The incredible protest slogan is currently available on stickers, priced at $5 each, or a t-shirt ($27), available in both black and white. What's more, it can barely keep the stickers in stock! They are currently available online, however, a recent Instagram post indicated that it only had a few left before the next restock.
Scroll ahead to check out the powerful stickers that are simultaneously an ode to the late Selena Quintanilla and a jab at the current president.
Katie Holmes Shares an Incredibly Sweet Bond With Her Daughter, Suri Cruise
Katie Holmes and her daughter, Suri Cruise, really do share a one-of-a-kind bond. While the Ocean's Eight actress has managed to keep the 11-year-old - whose father is Tom Cruise - mostly out of the spotlight, she has also posted a few precious snapshots of their adventures from time to time on social media. Whether they're catching a show in NYC, hanging out on set, or just playing dress-up at home, it's clear that these two share more than just looks.
How to Peel Peaches Without Making a Huge Mess
Few things kill a peach pie faster than flabby, long-cooked skin. Luckily, peeling peaches is far less daunting than it may appear on the outset. A few quick steps are all that separate an exceptional peach pie from a total flop.
How to Peel Peaches Without Making a Huge Mess
Few things kill a peach pie faster than flabby, long-cooked skin. Luckily, peeling peaches is far less daunting than it may appear on the outset. A few quick steps are all that separate an exceptional peach pie from a total flop.
Tarek El Moussa Just Revealed What Pushed Him to File For Divorce and It Might Shock You
When Tarek El Moussa filed for divorce from wife and HGTV partner in crime Christina El Moussa in December 2016, we had a lot of questions, and now, he's telling all. Tarek recently sat down with Us Weekly to talk about what caused his split, as well as that shocking incident where Christina called the cops on her then-husband in May of last year.
"It was a gradual thing over time," the Flip or Flop star said when asked about what went wrong in his marriage. "We were both very busy people with health issues and kids. We didn't fight, we just grew apart." He explained that his battle with cancer took a toll on their relationship, as well as Christina's fertility issues and their miscarriage after having Taylor, 6, and before welcoming Brayden, 16 months.
Although the news of their split was shocking, fans were even more shocked to find out that Tarek and Christina decided to continue filming the show despite their divorce. When asked if it was awkward, Tarek said, "You have good days and bad days. Now we say, 'Hi, good morning.' We film together and talk about houses and the kids. . . . We'll be together for the rest of our lives because we have kids. We need to get along for the kids and for our sanity."
True that! But things did not seem so cordial between the parents of two after the news broke that Christina called the cops on Tarek after he left their home with a handgun in his backpack. As for why she called 911, Tarek said, "You'd have to ask her. It was blown out of proportion. I went hiking in Chino Hills State Park. We have bobcats, mountain lions. I took my gun only for protection."
He said that they went through counseling to try to work things out, but they realized a separation was the right decision. "Over the Summer, I moved out," Tarek said. "We thought it was best to have space. We didn't want the kids to see us upset."
Although there were some suspicious rumors about Tarek hiring a private investigator to check on Christina, he refuted the claims and said he was "done worrying about the past."
So, how's he doing since the split? In addition to saying he's "totally moved on," Tarek truly sounds like he's living his best life. "My goal is to create memories, and I think I'm doing that," he said. "I'm the happiest I've been in a long time. It takes a situation like this, where you get knocked down and you rebuild yourself into the person you want to be. I'm becoming the person I want to be."
Why I Held My Son Up by One Leg at Target
It had to be done. I had no other choice.
Let me explain why I had to hold my son up by one leg in the middle of Target . . .
Just yesterday I found myself at Target. I had somehow managed to find a shopping cart that didn't have a squeaky wheel. I was so proud of myself. And because it didn't squeal like an upset child the whole way down the aisle, I had high hopes for my little shopping trip.
Owen sat sweetly in the front of the cart as I began to look at all of the different cards and party supplies. As I passed red balloons and bright green and blue gift bags, I noticed the bright fluorescent lights and elevator-sounding music that was playing. Owen didn't seem to notice. He was too busy playing with his little black seat belt. I turned my attention back to the party supplies. And for a whole minute I peacefully enjoyed all the different party options.
Owen was being quiet. That should have been my first clue.
If you are a mother, then you know that when there is silence, a mother's attention is needed. But by the time my eyes found Owen, he was escaping from his seat like a little wiggle worm. In a split second, he was standing up in the front of the cart, backward, and trying to break free from his seat belt! When I started to grab him, I had to unbuckle him in order to help him not be stuck.
If Owen could talk, I know he would have yelled, "Freedom!" Because the moment I unfastened his seat belt, he jumped. He dove toward the back of the cart head first as he tried to make his escape.
I literally caught him by one leg.
It had to be done. I had no other choice. I had to grab my son by one leg and hold him up midair. There I was, holding my 9-month-old upside down in the middle of Target.
Half snickering to myself, the rhyme, "Catch a tiger by his toe . . . " came to mind. But before I burst into laughter, I started freaking out. What if someone saw me? I could just imagine someone speaking over the intercom, "Crazy mom on aisle three! Get her!"
Thankfully no one saw our little stunt.
Here's What Barack Obama Has Been Up to Since He Walked Out of the White House - and Our Lives
Barack Obama officially left the White House on Jan. 20, and he did so faster than we could say, "Don't go!" Since his departure, Barack has been fulfilling his passion for adventure and settled into permanent vacation mode (really, though, can you blame him?). While many of us are still longing for his return, the sad truth is that Barack is gone and off living his best life.
Why I Held My Son Up by One Leg at Target
It had to be done. I had no other choice.
Let me explain why I had to hold my son up by one leg in the middle of Target . . .
Just yesterday I found myself at Target. I had somehow managed to find a shopping cart that didn't have a squeaky wheel. I was so proud of myself. And because it didn't squeal like an upset child the whole way down the aisle, I had high hopes for my little shopping trip.
Owen sat sweetly in the front of the cart as I began to look at all of the different cards and party supplies. As I passed red balloons and bright green and blue gift bags, I noticed the bright fluorescent lights and elevator-sounding music that was playing. Owen didn't seem to notice. He was too busy playing with his little black seat belt. I turned my attention back to the party supplies. And for a whole minute I peacefully enjoyed all the different party options.
Owen was being quiet. That should have been my first clue.
If you are a mother, then you know that when there is silence, a mother's attention is needed. But by the time my eyes found Owen, he was escaping from his seat like a little wiggle worm. In a split second, he was standing up in the front of the cart, backward, and trying to break free from his seat belt! When I started to grab him, I had to unbuckle him in order to help him not be stuck.
If Owen could talk, I know he would have yelled, "Freedom!" Because the moment I unfastened his seat belt, he jumped. He dove toward the back of the cart head first as he tried to make his escape.
I literally caught him by one leg.
It had to be done. I had no other choice. I had to grab my son by one leg and hold him up midair. There I was, holding my 9-month-old upside down in the middle of Target.
Half snickering to myself, the rhyme, "Catch a tiger by his toe . . . " came to mind. But before I burst into laughter, I started freaking out. What if someone saw me? I could just imagine someone speaking over the intercom, "Crazy mom on aisle three! Get her!"
Thankfully no one saw our little stunt.
The 1 Risk of Playing Outside on Summer Days That Many Parents Overlook
You spend a whole day outdoors and it's no surprise that your kiddo is wiped, right? Right. We encourage our children - especially in the summertime - to play outside and get some fresh air. In trying our best to get the kids out of the house, away from video games, and playing with nature, we put them at risk of one of the heat-related dangers many parents don't even know about: heatstroke.
Read through to find out everything you need to know about heatstroke and to learn the warning signs and prevention methods.
What is heatstroke?
Heatstroke, or heat exhaustion, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body becomes overheated and its ability to cool down is impaired. Children and babies are especially susceptible to heatstroke, especially when dressed too warmly or outdoors in the sun for an extended period of time (or if left in a parked car, which you should never do).
How do I know if my child has it?
It's easy to think that your child is just exhausted after a long day in the sun - and to an extent that's true - but there are additional signs to look out for that can alert you to the fact that something may actually be wrong.
Normal symptoms of being in the sun:
- Heavy sweating, beet-red face, but still a happy appearance
- Rapid heartbeat, breathing hard
- Being very thirsty
- Feeling hot to the touch
- Stitches or muscle cramps
Symptoms of heatstroke to look out for:
- A temperature of 103 degrees or higher
- Feeling cold despite fever
- Hot, red/pink, dry skin
- Rapid pulse
- Restlessness or irritability
- Confusion
- Dizziness or headache
- Vomiting
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Lethargy
How is heatstroke treated?
Once heatstroke sets in, it's important to work fast to cool your child down before they potentially lose consciousness. If you're still outside, get them into the shade, but do your best to get to a cool room or cool water. Call their doctor - or if they are exhibiting multiple signs, call an ambulance or take them to the ER - and keep them calm. Undress them, give them a cold bath, apply ice packs, or soak a rag in cold water and sponge them down repeatedly. Do not give them any water unless they are alert and acting normally.
How do I prevent heatstroke from ever happening?
Keep your child hydrated and in loose, light, and breathable clothing all Summer long. Stay indoors, preferably in air conditioning, when possible, and limit playing outside to short periods of time with plenty of water and shade breaks peppered in. Do your best to avoid active play in the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
If Your Child Is Sitting Like This, Here's Why You Need to Stop Them Now
My daughter's just over a year old, so there's really not much she's doing "wrong" yet. (Trust me, like all of us, she'll get there.) If she smacks our family pet, it's less hostility and more that she doesn't have full control of her arms. If she throws her food, it's not an act of insubordination but just her method of communicating that she's done eating. So, when a family member alerted me to something my child was doing that she needed to stop at once, I was taken aback. Especially because, at that particular moment, she wasn't stealing her playmate's toys or eating an expensive coaster as she's sometimes known to do. She was just sitting there.
Turns out, the way she was sitting - with each leg splayed at her side, knees in front and feet behind, to form a "W" shape - was all kinds of bad.
According to a vast majority of physical therapists, there are several key reasons why:
- W-sitting limits core strength because it gives kids a wider base of support. Because they don't have to engage their abdominal or back muscles in this position, kids often prefer it to more challenging, tiring positions, like with legs in front, at their sides, or crisscrossed.
- W-sitting causes muscle tightness, particularly in the legs and hips but also knees and ankles.
- W-sitting aggravates neurological issues such as low muscle tone, which means when kids aren't actively using their muscles, those muscles are floppier and softer and have a harder time holding their bodies upright.
What this all means, most therapists agree, is that prolonged W-sitting throughout childhood can lead to a delayed development in gross motor skills like coordination and balance. For those parents hoping to raise a star athlete, this position's effect on postural muscles can also be cause for concern.
Why do some kids sit like this? It's by far the steadiest way for children of all ages to sit, and aside from that innate tendency to achieve the most stability, it's also been attributed to time spent in infant carrier devices, like swings, bouncy seats, and car seats.
Seeing as my daughter had graduated from infancy, I was immediately concerned that the damage was already done. I had tried my best to limit her time in her baby swing and the oversize, overpriced ExerSaucer that I had bought under the assumption it was actually good for a baby's development, but here she was, W-sitting at every turn. I had never noticed it until now.
What can be done? Well, the somewhat alarmist recommendation is to get them to stop doing it immediately - that, whenever you see your child W-sitting, you either physically move their legs into a suitable position (if they're too young to understand) or tell them to do so.
So, with a watchful eye, I adjusted her legs every time she sat incorrectly, and my husband and I instructed our child's caretakers to do the same. Occasionally I'd correct her, and it'd be fine, but plenty of times, adjusting one of her legs would make her cry and most times, doing so annoyed her to the point that she was no longer interested in sitting and scooted off to go do something else.
She wasn't the only one getting fed up, and it had only been a week. I dug a little deeper and found that a few pediatric occupational therapists out there don't view this seated position as a problem necessarily. There's not much evidence that shows causation. That is, yes, children who W-sit often have orthopedic issues and muscle tightness. But W-sitting hasn't been proven to be the cause of those issues, which makes one wonder: could tight hamstrings and hip dysplasia lead to W-sitting, not the other way around?
One such unconvinced therapist, Rachel Coley, happens to be the mother to a W-sitter and maintains it's perfectly normal for kids to sit this way.
She notes that it's a simple sign of flexibility and aids in fine motor control because you need to assume the most stable seated position possible when engaging in tasks that require "coordinated, controlled movements of the hands and fingers." Coley also noted that, for babies in particular, W-sitting provides a convenient, "natural transition" from crawling or kneeling to sitting.
However, based on how strongly most certified therapists feel about W-sitting, I'm not taking any chances. I'm going to keep my eye on it, and I'll encourage other parents who were unaware of this issue to do the same, especially if they have older kids showing some of the negative side effects. But, if my child is having the time of her life smacking two wooden blocks together, I'm not going to spoil the fun if she happens to be W-sitting.
Read the Note a Mom Wrote to a Group of Petty Teenagers She Overheard in Starbucks
"You are smart and you are pretty. It would take nothing from you to also be kind," Michelle Icard wrote in a note to three teenage girls she sat next to in her local Starbucks in May 2016. The mom was enjoying her coffee when she overheard the girls gossiping about various "petty" things while they studied, which she said made her skin crawl.
Icard left Starbucks to go shopping, contemplated the incident, and saw that on her way back past the shop the girls were still sitting there - so she decided to order them drinks and write them a note. She approached them and said: "You don't know me but it looks like you're here studying and I wrote you a note of encouragement."
I sat near you today in Starbucks and listened as you talked. You three are obviously pretty and hard-working. I wish your kindness matched your pretty exteriors. I heard you talk about a girl who sang a song about being lonely in the talent show - and you laughed. . . . You sounded so mean and petty.
Icard told People: "I think that girls who are really pretty in high school can use that as a way of hiding bad behavior, it's almost like they feel like they have the pretty card so they can get away with it. I wanted to speak their language, but also to show them that you have a lot of power with that prettiness and you can hide behind it or you can be kind and it won't take anything away from you."
The 1 Risk of Playing Outside on Summer Days That Many Parents Overlook
You spend a whole day outdoors and it's no surprise that your kiddo is wiped, right? Right. We encourage our children - especially in the summertime - to play outside and get some fresh air. In trying our best to get the kids out of the house, away from video games, and playing with nature, we put them at risk of one of the heat-related dangers many parents don't even know about: heatstroke.
Read through to find out everything you need to know about heatstroke and to learn the warning signs and prevention methods.
What is heatstroke?
Heatstroke, or heat exhaustion, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body becomes overheated and its ability to cool down is impaired. Children and babies are especially susceptible to heatstroke, especially when dressed too warmly or outdoors in the sun for an extended period of time (or if left in a parked car, which you should never do).
How do I know if my child has it?
It's easy to think that your child is just exhausted after a long day in the sun - and to an extent that's true - but there are additional signs to look out for that can alert you to the fact that something may actually be wrong.
Normal symptoms of being in the sun:
- Heavy sweating, beet-red face, but still a happy appearance
- Rapid heartbeat, breathing hard
- Being very thirsty
- Feeling hot to the touch
- Stitches or muscle cramps
Symptoms of heatstroke to look out for:
- A temperature of 103 degrees or higher
- Feeling cold despite fever
- Hot, red/pink, dry skin
- Rapid pulse
- Restlessness or irritability
- Confusion
- Dizziness or headache
- Vomiting
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Lethargy
How is heatstroke treated?
Once heatstroke sets in, it's important to work fast to cool your child down before they potentially lose consciousness. If you're still outside, get them into the shade, but do your best to get to a cool room or cool water. Call their doctor - or if they are exhibiting multiple signs, call an ambulance or take them to the ER - and keep them calm. Undress them, give them a cold bath, apply ice packs, or soak a rag in cold water and sponge them down repeatedly. Do not give them any water unless they are alert and acting normally.
How do I prevent heatstroke from ever happening?
Keep your child hydrated and in loose, light, and breathable clothing all Summer long. Stay indoors, preferably in air conditioning, when possible, and limit playing outside to short periods of time with plenty of water and shade breaks peppered in. Do your best to avoid active play in the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Read the Note a Mom Wrote to a Group of Petty Teenagers She Overheard in Starbucks
"You are smart and you are pretty. It would take nothing from you to also be kind," Michelle Icard wrote in a note to three teenage girls she sat next to in her local Starbucks in May 2016. The mom was enjoying her coffee when she overheard the girls gossiping about various "petty" things while they studied, which she said made her skin crawl.
Icard left Starbucks to go shopping, contemplated the incident, and saw that on her way back past the shop the girls were still sitting there - so she decided to order them drinks and write them a note. She approached them and said: "You don't know me but it looks like you're here studying and I wrote you a note of encouragement."
I sat near you today in Starbucks and listened as you talked. You three are obviously pretty and hard-working. I wish your kindness matched your pretty exteriors. I heard you talk about a girl who sang a song about being lonely in the talent show - and you laughed. . . . You sounded so mean and petty.
Icard told People: "I think that girls who are really pretty in high school can use that as a way of hiding bad behavior, it's almost like they feel like they have the pretty card so they can get away with it. I wanted to speak their language, but also to show them that you have a lot of power with that prettiness and you can hide behind it or you can be kind and it won't take anything away from you."
8 Reasons We Never Want to Be Friends With George Clooney, Matt Damon, or Brad Pitt
Being friends with Matt Damon, George Clooney, and Brad Pitt might look fun, but it also seems extremely dangerous. While all three are Hollywood legends in their own right, the series of pranks the Ocean's Eleven costars have been pulling on one another for over 15 years are on a whole new level. During a recent interview with E! News, Matt actually revealed that George has slowed his roll when it comes to practical jokes now that he's going to be a dad, because "he's got a full-time job and a full-time family." Luckily we've been keeping track of all the antics George, Matt, and Brad (especially) have gotten up to.
15 Things Depression Will Tell You That Are Actually Horrible Lies
For those suffering from depression, it can often feel like nothing will ever get better and nobody will ever understand. My personal bouts consist of oversleeping, undereating, shutting down at inappropriate times, disconnecting or isolating myself from the people I care about in an effort "not to burden them," and generally being a challenging person to deal with and get through to.
I think about all the ways depression (and its sh*tty second cousin, anxiety) have made a home in me; like a devil on either shoulder, telling me I don't deserve the things I want, the people I love don't love me back, and the roads to healthy relationships and self-confidence will always be closed for construction. But one of the things I can bring to my decades-long odyssey with mental illness (besides, you know, medication and therapy) is a wry, malapropos sense of humor - because sometimes, it really does seem like there is nothing else. That being said, here are some text messages I just know I'd get from my depression if it could fit its grubby little hands around a cell phone (and if I actually gave it my number).
- It's honestly so crazy to me that you have friends. Isn't that crazy to you?
- You realize nobody like, actually likes you, right? Try looking up "tolerate" in the dictionary, hun.
- They "just want you to be happy?" LOL, you don't really believe that, do you?
- Yeah, that dude is WAY out of your league. Cute that you thought he'd be into you, though.
- Don't you think you're being a little too . . . I dunno . . . happy right now? Snap out of it, girl. It's not always about you!
- Isn't Pinterest so inspiring? It's like, all the things you'll never have and don't deserve, but in one handy place. You should check it multiple times a day!
- You really are better off just keeping your head down, getting your work done, and going home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- You really are better off just saying you're tired, turning down the invite, and staying home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- Wait, you tried to explain our relationship to someone?! I bet you cried! Way to go. Have fun looking insane.
- OMG, my vacay was amazing. Looks like you had a fun couple of weeks without me but I'm so glad to be back - aren't you so glad I'm back?
- Did that doctor just call me "severe?" Way harsh, Tai.
- Hey, we have that 11 hours of sleep that we really need to get to. So what the sun's still out? Seems like the sun's problem.
- Um, Anxiety just told me you were awake half the night thinking about how f*cked up your life is and didn't get the 11 hours of sleep we need to function. Care to explain?
- Wait, who told you your life was f*cked up? Not me, I hope.
- Dude, you're so dramatic. You'll be fiiiine. When have I ever lied to you?
How Jen Sincero Built a Career (and a Bank Account) Out of Being a Badass
If anyone is a badass, it's Jen Sincero. She's been in rock bands, written a nationally syndicated sex-advice column, spoken on stages all over the world, and coached her clients into becoming full-on superheroes. She's also the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of You Are a Badass and its sequel, You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth (one of our top picks for new springtime reads!), in which she shares her money secrets and how she went from living in a converted garage with tumbleweeds blowing through her bank account to earning enough money to be her authentic self and power her happy. Jen has run her business from all corners of the globe and now lives in her happy place: Santa Fe, NM.
Torch Calories With This Low-Impact High-Intensity Workout
You can build muscle and burn calories without all that jumping around, which can be hard your joints, especially your ankles, knees, hips, and even your lower back. This low-impact high-intensity workout, created by Justin Norris and Taylor Gainor, cofounders of the LIT Method, builds muscles, burns calories, and minimizes the impact on your joints. Your legs and glutes will burn after this 30-minute sweat sesh. If you have a resistance band and resistance loop, grab them. These fitness props add increased resistance to some of the exercise to work your muscles more. But trust us, this workout is beneficial without them.
On Dani: Koral, Alala, and Reebok
On Taylor: Varley and Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL)
Manduka Yoga Mats
50 Dips For Delish Dunking
A winning appetizer should be easy, fun, and delicious. What better way to bring all those ideas together in a bowl than with a tasty dip? To encourage you to go for it, we've rounded up more than 50 salsas, cheesy dips, hummus variations, and even a handful of dessert dips in order to get your creative juices flowing. You'll find something for every palate, from chili con queso to Oreo cookie dough dip!
- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry and Brinton Parker
Torch Calories With This Low-Impact High-Intensity Workout
You can build muscle and burn calories without all that jumping around, which can be hard your joints, especially your ankles, knees, hips, and even your lower back. This low-impact high-intensity workout, created by Justin Norris and Taylor Gainor, cofounders of the LIT Method, builds muscles, burns calories, and minimizes the impact on your joints. Your legs and glutes will burn after this 30-minute sweat sesh. If you have a resistance band and resistance loop, grab them. These fitness props add increased resistance to some of the exercise to work your muscles more. But trust us, this workout is beneficial without them.
On Dani: Koral, Alala, and Reebok
On Taylor: Varley and Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL)
Manduka Yoga Mats
This is the Best Running Workout For Newbies
If you're new to running, I'm a firm believer in easing into your relationship with running to give your body time to adjust to the physical demands - you don't want to get so sore that you never want to run again. Mixing walking and running is a great way to get your heart rate up while priming your body for distance and speed. Here's a 40-minute walking/running workout perfect for beginners - or for seasoned runners in the mood for a lighter workout.
Click here for a printable version of this workout. As always, if this workout is too hard or too easy, feel free to decrease or increase the speed. I would keep the incline set to 1.0 because this helps prevent shin splints, which can be a common problem for new runners. Try to do this workout three times in one week. The following week, after warming up for the first 10 minutes, run for three minutes and walk for three minutes, keeping the last two segments at two minutes each, then cool down with walking. Try it. You just might get hooked on running.
These Fitness Marshall Workouts Will Make You Sweat While You Salsa
Since launching his YouTube account in 2014, the self-proclaimed Fitness Marshall has served up countless cardio-driven dance workouts. For your viewing pleasure, we've rounded up some of his videos set to songs from both mainstream and rising Latinx artists, from Enrique Iglesias and Selena Gomez to Dawin Polanco and Dev. If you're looking to work up a sweat from home, check out his videos ahead.
Kim Kardashian's Perfect Nose Is Actually a Contouring Hack
Kim Kardashian is clearly the master of contouring and highlighting with makeup. Thanks to one unfinished-glam selfie, Kim is sharing her beauty secrets to a perfectly chiseled face. "Kontour!!!!" Kim exclaimed on her post to Instagram. "Not finished with my makeup yet but wanted to share a pic of some contouring makeup tricks!" While you may take a lazier approach to contouring, these are the tips to know to contour like a pro.
- Don't be afraid to contour more of your nose than you think is necessary. Not only is Kim's nose shaded from the browbone all the way down, but most of the skin on her nostrils is shaded as well. This will create a serious slimming effect.
- Always highlight down the center of your nose. A perfect contour is nothing without a highlight! You should create a stripe of light color down your nose, starting from between your brows down to the tip. Keep the line steady and symmetrical, but feel free to play with the width (depending on how narrow you want your nose to appear).
- Add subtle shade to the tip of your nose. You have to look very closely to see this, but the end of Kim's nose has a bit of contour on it. This will prevent your nose from looking too long. However, you should skip this step if you have a short button nose.
- Use matching contouring colors in the hollows of your cheekbones and around your forehead. Everything should look natural and seamless - using the same products and shades will prevent any weird mismatching issues while balancing your overall look.
- Finish your contouring look with a bit of shading along your eye sockets. This will complete the illusion of goddess-level bone structure.
- Don't forget to blend! While you do want to maintain the integrity of the lines you've created as you buff them out, they should not look like actual lines drawn on your face.
Kim Kardashian's Perfect Nose Is Actually a Contouring Hack
Kim Kardashian is clearly the master of contouring and highlighting with makeup. Thanks to one unfinished-glam selfie, Kim is sharing her beauty secrets to a perfectly chiseled face. "Kontour!!!!" Kim exclaimed on her post to Instagram. "Not finished with my makeup yet but wanted to share a pic of some contouring makeup tricks!" While you may take a lazier approach to contouring, these are the tips to know to contour like a pro.
- Don't be afraid to contour more of your nose than you think is necessary. Not only is Kim's nose shaded from the browbone all the way down, but most of the skin on her nostrils is shaded as well. This will create a serious slimming effect.
- Always highlight down the center of your nose. A perfect contour is nothing without a highlight! You should create a stripe of light color down your nose, starting from between your brows down to the tip. Keep the line steady and symmetrical, but feel free to play with the width (depending on how narrow you want your nose to appear).
- Add subtle shade to the tip of your nose. You have to look very closely to see this, but the end of Kim's nose has a bit of contour on it. This will prevent your nose from looking too long. However, you should skip this step if you have a short button nose.
- Use matching contouring colors in the hollows of your cheekbones and around your forehead. Everything should look natural and seamless - using the same products and shades will prevent any weird mismatching issues while balancing your overall look.
- Finish your contouring look with a bit of shading along your eye sockets. This will complete the illusion of goddess-level bone structure.
- Don't forget to blend! While you do want to maintain the integrity of the lines you've created as you buff them out, they should not look like actual lines drawn on your face.
This is the Best Running Workout For Newbies
If you're new to running, I'm a firm believer in easing into your relationship with running to give your body time to adjust to the physical demands - you don't want to get so sore that you never want to run again. Mixing walking and running is a great way to get your heart rate up while priming your body for distance and speed. Here's a 40-minute walking/running workout perfect for beginners - or for seasoned runners in the mood for a lighter workout.
Click here for a printable version of this workout. As always, if this workout is too hard or too easy, feel free to decrease or increase the speed. I would keep the incline set to 1.0 because this helps prevent shin splints, which can be a common problem for new runners. Try to do this workout three times in one week. The following week, after warming up for the first 10 minutes, run for three minutes and walk for three minutes, keeping the last two segments at two minutes each, then cool down with walking. Try it. You just might get hooked on running.
What Is It Like to Be in an Open Marriage? 1 Woman Shares Her Story
Sara and Ben (names have been changed) are a happily married, millennial couple in an open relationship. We reached out to Sara to share some insight into their journey to polyamory, the ground rules they've set, and what it's like to date other people - and maybe even fall in love with other people - when you're already married to someone you love.
How long have you been with your husband?
We've been together for nine years. We met on our first day of college - I was determined to break out of my nerdy shell and sit next to the cutest person in the room. I was really drawn to Ben. He ended up being super quiet and thus I was convinced that he hated me, but in actuality he was just nervous (and a soft-spoken person). We became friends, and the rest is history.
When did you decide to have an open relationship?
We started talking about being monogamish (which later evolved into full-blown polyamory, haha) about two years into our relationship. Seven years ago.
Who initiated it? How did the conversation go?
Ben is an open-minded person who has never been a big believer in social constructions or tradition. I am a bit more of a rule follower, but definitely liberal and nonjudgmental. He brought up the idea of him being comfortable with me casually dating other people early on in our relationship. He knew that he was my first boyfriend (I was 18), and he didn't want me to feel like I was missing out on dating. We talked about nonmonogamy in theory for a long time (two years?) before ever acting on it. In hindsight, I feel like this gave me time to get used to the idea and for us to build a solid foundation. One of my biggest takeaways from our relationship (and from hearing about other couple's open relationships) is that a successful nonmongamous relationship centers on honest communication and a strong connection between the couple.
How would you describe your relationship?
Our relationship has evolved over time, but the constant has been how close we are with one another. We've been consistently super happy together for almost a decade! The other constant is that since becoming "monogamish" (and eventually, "poly"), we've always dated separately.
At first, we were monogamous (I was 18 and didn't know much about any other relationship structures). Ben mentioned that he would be comfortable with me casually dating other people early on in our relationship, and it was then something we talked about every once in a while for a few years. These conversations were happy and exploratory. When we graduated college (and moved in together), I met someone who I could see myself dating. Ben was comfortable with me exploring it, and I casually went on a few dates. From there, we talked about opening the relationship on his end as well, and I was surprised by how nonjealous I felt. We took it really slow (lots and lots of conversation) and occasionally dated outside of our relationship. As time went on, the "casual" piece has become less and less important. I dated someone for over a year, and the consistency (and depth) was really nice. Ben was fully supportive - in fact, he prefers when I date someone longer term, because he trusts that I'm safe (dating new people can feel scary - you never know who might be a creep!). He has been seeing two women for about eight months, and again I am surprised by how normal it feels.
Logistically, we tend to see the other people we're dating (if we're dating other people) about once a week. I have an incredibly busy career (whereas Ben's is more mellow), so he might go on two dates a week (almost always during times when I am busy anyways). I am super picky and not always seeing someone, but when I am, I like to see them once a week. In the past I have spent the night at a boyfriend's house, but Ben has not spent the night anywhere.
Do you ever get jealous? Does he?
Making the other person feel valued and primary is extremely important to Ben and me. This really helps minimize jealousy. We spend most of our free time together and try to be intentional about the quality of that time (e.g. putting our phones away and actually connecting). We've both acknowledged that if our foundation wasn't strong, we would probably feel more jealousy.
We shared a big laugh when we realized just how weird/unusual it is for a husband to comfort his wife about her breakup with a boyfriend.
Do you have ground rules? If so, what are they?
The biggest rule is communication - we try hard to balance respect for our other partners' privacy with open communication between the two of us. We are also always honest with the people we are dating. Everyone knows right off the bat that we are happily married, and thus not looking for a lifelong commitment. We also feel strongly about treating the people we date with respect and care (and expect to be treated the same). It makes me really happy (but also disappointed) that several of the women Ben has dated have said that he is the kindest, most respectful man they've been with.
This isn't a rule but more of a practice: we have not met one another's partners in the past. This might also help minimize jealousy. Not meeting one another's partners also allows each of us to have an identity outside of our marriage, which is nice. However, we're both open to meeting someone the other person is dating if they felt strongly about it.
Another big (and hopefully obvious) rule is condoms. We believe in safe sex for everyone, not just open couples!
Have you fallen in love with someone you've dated?
Yes - I've been in love with one other person. It was not the same as the deep love I feel for Ben, but it was fun and meaningful. Ben didn't feel threatened and was an amazing source of support when we eventually broke up. We shared a big laugh when we realized just how weird/unusual it is for a husband to comfort his wife about her breakup with a boyfriend. Ben hasn't fallen in love with anyone (he is a private person, and the women he is dating are not looking for serious relationships). If he did fall in love, I don't think it would bother me. We both feel strongly that our relationships with other people don't take away from how we feel about each other.
Do your friends or family know?
My sister (who is also my best friend) and her husband know, which is extremely helpful. Finally telling them was a massive relief. I felt like I was living a double life for a while there, which I hated. We've also told a few close friends, all of whom have been awesome and supportive. The idea of telling our parents makes us both want to poop our pants, and thus will never happen (nor does it need to). I'm not particularly close with the rest of my family, so there is really no need to tell them.
This past year, we've been trying to tell new friends early on, because it is much less awkward. This has been a great strategy! We tend to attract open-minded people into our lives, so no one has had a terrible response thus far.
What type of guys do you go for? Are they similar or different than your husband?
I tend to be attracted to older men, which is different from Ben (he is only a couple of months older than I am). My long-term boyfriend was hilariously similar to Ben in some ways (both surfers, they liked similar bands and movies, similar styles of dress, etc.).
What type of women does your husband go for? Are they similar to you or different?
Ben tends to go for women who are a bit more free-spirited than I am - which is fine by me! He can go camping with them while I enjoy the comfort of a real bed. The women he dates do tend to be intellectual like I am. They sound like awesome people who I could easily be friends with.
How has this arrangement helped your relationship?
I am 100 percent convinced that being in an open relationship has made our relationship better. We've honestly become closer through sharing our dating experiences with one another. We've always had an awesome sex life, and it's fun to be able to have sexual experiences outside of the relationship (it takes a lot of pressure for us to be all things for the other person).
Do you have kids or plan on having kids? How will this affect your decision to have an open relationship?
We're unsure about kids but would probably be monogamous during the baby phase (only because of time constraints). Our biggest commitment to one another is to keep talking honestly and continually reevaluating the structure of our relationship. Originally we weren't sure if we were going to be nonmonogamous for 10 minutes, or 10 years. It's all about making sure we're both happy. We're so grateful to have found one another and joke that we're two little aliens in love. We don't know if our relationship will always be open, but we do feel strongly that we'll be together.
These Fitness Marshall Workouts Will Make You Sweat While You Salsa
Since launching his YouTube account in 2014, the self-proclaimed Fitness Marshall has served up countless cardio-driven dance workouts. For your viewing pleasure, we've rounded up some of his videos set to songs from both mainstream and rising Latinx artists, from Enrique Iglesias and Selena Gomez to Dawin Polanco and Dev. If you're looking to work up a sweat from home, check out his videos ahead.
8 Reasons We Never Want to Be Friends With George Clooney, Matt Damon, or Brad Pitt
Being friends with Matt Damon, George Clooney, and Brad Pitt might look fun, but it also seems extremely dangerous. While all three are Hollywood legends in their own right, the series of pranks the Ocean's Eleven costars have been pulling on one another for over 15 years are on a whole new level. During a recent interview with E! News, Matt actually revealed that George has slowed his roll when it comes to practical jokes now that he's going to be a dad, because "he's got a full-time job and a full-time family." Luckily we've been keeping track of all the antics George, Matt, and Brad (especially) have gotten up to.
50 Dips For Delish Dunking
A winning appetizer should be easy, fun, and delicious. What better way to bring all those ideas together in a bowl than with a tasty dip? To encourage you to go for it, we've rounded up more than 50 salsas, cheesy dips, hummus variations, and even a handful of dessert dips in order to get your creative juices flowing. You'll find something for every palate, from chili con queso to Oreo cookie dough dip!
- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry and Brinton Parker
Nutritionist-Recommended Tip to Lose Weight (and Always Feel Satisfied)
I'm famished! I'm starving! I'm going to pass out I'm so hungry! Ignoring hunger and getting to the point where you're so ravenous you could eat the entire refrigerator is not good on many levels. Aside from the headaches, dizziness, and stomach pangs that go along with waiting too long to eat, it also makes you eat tons more than you would if you were just moderately hungry, and that my famished friends, can cause weight gain.
Hunger is important for weight loss - it signals your body when it's time for your next meal or snack. But for everyone's sake, you want to avoid getting hangry. So how to you gauge how much hunger is OK? Nutritionists Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition recommend using the hunger scale.
"It's a scale from one to 10, with one being your absolute hungriest, feeling light-headed level, five being completely neutral (not hungry and not at all full), and 10 being really uncomfortably stuffed. You want to grab a snack or meal at about a three, when you're moderately hungry, and stop eating around a six, just past that completely neutral feeling."
1: Starving, famished, dizzy, headache
3: Hungry, growling belly
5: Comfortable, light, neutral feeling
6: Satisfied
8: Extremely full, tired from eating too much
10: So stuffed you feel sick
Basically you want to develop a personalized eating schedule where you eat when fairly hungry (if you waited another hour, you'd be famished) and eat just enough to feel satisfied and be hungry again three to four hours later. This way of being mindful of your hunger, using a hunger scale, is a great way to monitor what and how much goes in your mouth. Keep the numbers in mind every time you're about to reach for something to eat. Think to yourself, "What number am I?" and it should help curb those unnecessary noshings when you're not actually hungry and will also prevent you from getting past the point of hunger to where you want to order an entire pizza for lunch.
Nutritionist-Recommended Tip to Lose Weight (and Always Feel Satisfied)
I'm famished! I'm starving! I'm going to pass out I'm so hungry! Ignoring hunger and getting to the point where you're so ravenous you could eat the entire refrigerator is not good on many levels. Aside from the headaches, dizziness, and stomach pangs that go along with waiting too long to eat, it also makes you eat tons more than you would if you were just moderately hungry, and that my famished friends, can cause weight gain.
Hunger is important for weight loss - it signals your body when it's time for your next meal or snack. But for everyone's sake, you want to avoid getting hangry. So how to you gauge how much hunger is OK? Nutritionists Stephanie Clarke, RD, and Willow Jarosh, RD, of C&J Nutrition recommend using the hunger scale.
"It's a scale from one to 10, with one being your absolute hungriest, feeling light-headed level, five being completely neutral (not hungry and not at all full), and 10 being really uncomfortably stuffed. You want to grab a snack or meal at about a three, when you're moderately hungry, and stop eating around a six, just past that completely neutral feeling."
1: Starving, famished, dizzy, headache
3: Hungry, growling belly
5: Comfortable, light, neutral feeling
6: Satisfied
8: Extremely full, tired from eating too much
10: So stuffed you feel sick
Basically you want to develop a personalized eating schedule where you eat when fairly hungry (if you waited another hour, you'd be famished) and eat just enough to feel satisfied and be hungry again three to four hours later. This way of being mindful of your hunger, using a hunger scale, is a great way to monitor what and how much goes in your mouth. Keep the numbers in mind every time you're about to reach for something to eat. Think to yourself, "What number am I?" and it should help curb those unnecessary noshings when you're not actually hungry and will also prevent you from getting past the point of hunger to where you want to order an entire pizza for lunch.
Riverdale's Archie Sounds VERY Different in Real Life
Riverdale is one of our newest obsessions for many reasons: the juicy drama, the talented cast, and yes, the extremely attractive KJ Apa (Archie Andrews). The 19-year-old actor (can you believe he's only 19?!) is an all-American type of guy on the show. His character is an athlete, a musician, and, after going through puberty the Summer before the show begins, is a huge hit with the ladies of Riverdale High School. While he nails his cute American accent on the show, he actually sounds completely different in real life.
KJ, who has formed a cute bromance with costar Cole Sprouse who plays Jughead Jones (he's also real hot, fyi), was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand. His father is actually Samoan and is a Matai (chief) of his village in Samoa. Hearing KJ talk in his regular accent is slightly jarring if you're a fan of The CW show, but we definitely aren't complaining.
One Editor Put the Best of Unicorn Makeup to the Test For a Week
It's been over a year since I last challenged myself to master a buzzy beauty trend. Don't get me wrong, I've seen tons of makeup inspiration since then, but nothing really spoke to my soul until a colorful, almost '90s-inspired fad began to circulate.
Unicorn makeup (well, unicorn everything) has completely swarmed the web. It's hard to say where the trend bubbled up first, whether it was in beauty products and video tutorials or tantalizing desserts. Either way, you can't scroll through Instagram today without seeing some sort of magical creation using every pastel shade on the color spectrum.
I was born in 1993 and being the good '90s baby that I am, I felt it was my civic duty to take this nostalgia-inducing trend into my own hands and test it out IRL. I spent hours researching products and recruited the help of my colleagues and experts here at POPSUGAR to round up some of the most lust-worthy (and sold out, no less) picks for my experiment.
For an entire work week, I woke up every morning and bypassed my usual routine that, for lack of a better word, is extremely boring (concealer, blush, mascara). Instead, I reached for my iridescent glosses and shiny new palettes. The whole thing was thrilling, to say the least.
Ahead, find out how all of the looks came together and see if you'd be brave enough to sport the trend while out in the real world.
The Groom's Tearful Reaction to Seeing His Bride Is the Absolute Sweetest
Junyoung and Brittany were both living in Seoul, South Korea, when they met four years ago. They went on their first date just a couple days before Brittany's birthday. "I had mentioned it in a passing conversation beforehand, and he brought a birthday present to our date," she said. "I knew he was special right then and there."
Fast forward to when she was leaving for the States about four months before Junyoung would be joining her. She admitted she was unfair and told him that she needed a ring on her finger before going. Since that didn't leave him much time to prepare, Brittany didn't expect to be surprised. The day of the proposal, the couple took the train to downtown Seoul to grab some hot chocolate and took a walk by the stream through the city center. "I was drinking really slowly, which seemed to bother him," Brittany said. "Finally after I told him that I didn't want to drink any more of the hot chocolate, he asked if he could pour it into his latte to 'make it sweeter.'" He handed back her cup and she saw that he had written "Marry Me?" at the bottom. It wasn't until Junyoung got down on one knee that she realized what was happening. "She already told you the story, but she didn't tell you that I made a mistake," Junyoung said. "I wrote 'Merry Me' like Merry Christmas."
The most memorable moment of their wedding day was the groom's tearful reaction when they opened the french doors and he got to see his bride for the first time. "He's not generally a very emotional person, so I wasn't expecting much more than a big smile. Boy, was I wrong!" Brittany said. The rest of their reception, which featured many DIY decor items made by the bride, was filled with some "crazy dancing."
Their cake included a Korean cake topper and Korean lettering that translated to "Let's be happy!" and wedding ducks from the groom's mom. She broke her hip the day after getting to the country, so the newlyweds visited her in the hospital in their wedding clothes with flowers from their reception.
For their honeymoon, Brittany and Junyoung enjoyed a beach getaway at Marco Island, FL. When asked if they had advice for other brides and grooms, they said expect the unexpected on your wedding day. "Although your wedding should be a wonderful day to remember, it may not be exactly what you imagined. Don't put so much pressure on making it perfect. Just go with the flow and enjoy celebrating the two of you. You only get to have this day once!"
See their wonderful photos now and check out more real weddings here!
Riverdale's Archie Sounds VERY Different in Real Life
Riverdale is one of our newest obsessions for many reasons: the juicy drama, the talented cast, and yes, the extremely attractive KJ Apa (Archie Andrews). The 19-year-old actor (can you believe he's only 19?!) is an all-American type of guy on the show. His character is an athlete, a musician, and, after going through puberty the Summer before the show begins, is a huge hit with the ladies of Riverdale High School. While he nails his cute American accent on the show, he actually sounds completely different in real life.
KJ, who has formed a cute bromance with costar Cole Sprouse who plays Jughead Jones (he's also real hot, fyi), was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand. His father is actually Samoan and is a Matai (chief) of his village in Samoa. Hearing KJ talk in his regular accent is slightly jarring if you're a fan of The CW show, but we definitely aren't complaining.
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