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
Is There a Twin Baby Boom, or Are You Just Imagining It?
Image Source: Stocksnap / Pixabay
Twins are all the rage, at least amongst A-listers. Beyoncé and Jay Z are expecting twins later this year, and George and Amal Clooney just welcomed a pair. If you feel like you've been hearing about multiples more over the past few years, you're not mistaken. The American twin birth rate reached an all-time high in 2014, with a rate of 33.9 twins born per 1,000 births. In the three decades since 1980, the twin rate rose 76 percent and doubled among women aged 35 to 39. In a CDC study, the agency found that because of this increased rate, 865,000 additional sets of twins were born between 1980 and 2009. That's almost a million extra sets of twins!
More widespread use of fertility treatment can help explain this historical increase. But you never want to assume that's the case - since twins were around long before IUI or IVF. If you're curious about what has sparked this twin baby boom, we're here to separate the fact from the fiction.
What Causes Twins Besides Fertility Treatment
Older maternal age alone accounts for about one-third of the twin boom - having nothing to do with fertility treatment.
Today, women are having children later. In 1980, the mean age for mothers having their first child was 23. In 2016, it had risen to 28. According to the CDC, older maternal age alone accounts for about one-third of the twin boom - having nothing to do with fertility treatment. How come? Researchers have figured out that many women over 30 naturally produce more follicle-stimulating hormones, which raises the chance that multiple eggs will be ready for fertilization each cycle. If that happens, you get fraternal twins (or more). It's basically your body buying more lottery tickets each month hoping to hit the baby jackpot before menopause. Sometimes both tickets - or eggs - win.
Other personal factors raise your chances of having twins. If twins run on the woman's side of the family, that doubles your chances of having doubles. Tall women and those with a BMI over 30 have higher odds. And race has an impact, too. Non-Hispanic black women are more likely than white women to have twins, while Hispanic and Asian women are less likely than white women to become pregnant with multiples. Finally, past pregnancies can also predict your chances. If you've ever been pregnant before, you're more likely to have twins during subsequent pregnancies - and those chances raise again if you already have twins. How lucky!
Myths About Fertility Treatment and Twins
Factors like family history have been driving the birth of twins long before the twin boom. So what explains the rise since 1980? We know rising maternal age accounts for a third of it. The other two-thirds can be attributed to the greater use of fertility treatment. According to Dr. Marcy Maguire, who practices at Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, approximately 3 percent of all live births in the US are twins. But among pregnancies resulting from fertility treatment, 40 percent result in twin gestation. The vast majority of those are fraternal.
"Many people think that IVF has a higher risk of twin gestation than artificial insemination, but this is not true."
While it's true fertility treatment can lead to twins, there are many false understandings of how twins and fertility treatment go hand in hand. "Many people think that in vitro fertilization (IVF) has a higher risk of twin gestation than artificial insemination (IUI), but this is not true," Maguire explains. If you're not familiar with IUI, it's a cheaper more low-tech cousin to IVF. Because they are much less controlled, IUI cycles have a higher risk of multiple gestation. Maguire spells out how it works: "During an IUI cycle, a woman is given medication to cause her to ovulate more than one egg." (You may have heard of drugs like Clomiphene or Letrozole.) "Sperm is then placed into the uterus at an appropriate time to encourage conception. While inducing ovulation of more than one egg improves the chance of conception, it also significantly raises the risk of multiple gestation."
IVF, which involves manually combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish before transferring the embryo back to the uterus, did lead to more twins in the past. But Maguire points out that advancements in technology make IVF much more effective and twins less likely today: "Historically, during IVF cycles, physicians would transfer more than one embryo into a woman's uterus at the same time in order to improve her chance of conception." In fact, in 2000 it was common to transfer three or more embryos each cycle. Given improvements, physicians now can transfer just one embryo at a time. These single embryo transfers get high pregnancy rates, without a high chance of twins.
Identical twins are slightly increased in IVF pregnancies.
IUI and IVF also carry different chances of fraternal or identical twins. Fraternal twins occurs when two different eggs are fertilized by two different sperm. Identical twins occurs when one egg is fertilized by one sperm, but the resulting embryo splits into two embryos. "Artificial insemination (IUI) procedures increase the risk of fraternal twins by increasing the number of eggs and sperm in the uterus at the same time," Maguire explains. "The risk of fraternal twinning in patients undergoing IVF is only increased in women who elect to have more than one embryo transferred into their uterus at the same time." On the other hand, identical twins are slightly increased in IVF pregnancies, for unclear reasons that may have to do with embryo manipulation. Identical twins occur in approximately 0.4 percent of natural pregnancies and 1-5 percent of IVF pregnancies.
In her practice, Maguire has observed that patients seeking treatment for infertility often desire twins, since the idea of having a "complete family" after only one pregnancy can be very tempting. However she makes sure to fill them in on the downsides, which include higher risks for the mother and babies. "Twin pregnancies are associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery. Premature infants have a higher risk of multiple physical and intellectual disabilities, including learning deficits, respiratory issues, vision impairment, cerebral palsy, and even death." Women carrying twin pregnancies may experience dangerously high blood pressure, diabetes in pregnancy, pregnancy complications requiring bed rest, and other complications. When possible, she says, it is far safer to help patients have one healthy baby at a time.
Why We Might Have Reached "Peak Twinning"
While older mothers and an increased use of fertility treatment means classrooms will be filled with sets of twins for the next few decades, there's a chance we've reached peak twinning, especially as physicians learn more about the risks associated with twin pregnancies, Maguire says. With advancements in technology enabling excellent pregnancy rates with transfer of only one embryo in IVF, the rate of twin pregnancies shows signs of decline. Following 2014's peak of 33.9 twins per 1,000 births, the twin birth rate declined to 33.5 twins per 1,000 births in 2015 and again to 32.3 in 2016. That's still a lot higher than 1980, but we may be nearing the end of the twin baby boom.
I Finally Found the Perfect Pan and I'm Never Looking Back
If you're on the hunt for a nonstick pan that you will love tenderly, invest in a Scanpan. Before you freak out over the $125 price tag, allow me to explain. I discovered Scanpan during culinary school when I was on the hunt for a small nonstick pan for eggs. Wary of Teflon, I inquired about alternatives. The store employee shared that Scanpan is nontoxic, made of recycled aluminum and ceramic, doesn't scratch, can be used with metal utensils, can go in the oven . . . and despite the price sucking my bank account dry, I hightailed it to the cash register.
Sure enough, the Scanpan delivered on all those promises. I can scramble or fry eggs without them sticking. I can sear a steak. I can make oatmeal without soaking the pot for the next three days. Cleaning is a cinch too. I can't remember the last time I had to break a sweat scrubbing down a pan. The food just glides off. I've had my same pans for almost a decade now. I love them. However, they do require a little fussy maintenance to make them last longer, but when you just threw down 100 bucks for a pan, the extra effort pays off. Remember to use medium heat or lower when cooking with them and be sure to hand wash and dry them immediately after using. If you can get on board with those two habits, you'll be in cook's heaven.
I've since given Scanpans to my parents, boyfriend, and best friends (spoiler: it's my go-to wedding gift). They are all now Scanpan believers. The Scanpan is the perfect pan in my opinion, and I'm never looking back.
Everything You Need to Know About Each of Selena Gomez's Tattoos
At 24, Selena is just like every other 20-something who experiments with tattoos: starting off small (with a tiny one on her wrist) and working her way up to a whooping eight pieces of ink. The chart-topping singer now proudly showcases her tattoos - choosing hairstyles, red carpet looks, and swimsuits that put the spotlight on them - and openly discussing the special meaning behind each. Whether the ink was in honor of a family member or a phrase meant to motivate, they're all reflective of Selena's unique personal style. Read ahead to find out more about them.
12 Things We Know About the Qatar Crisis So Far
On Monday morning, four countries - the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt - announced that they'd be cutting all diplomatic ties with the State of Qatar. The fallout started immediately and has escalated throughout the week. Here's everything we know so far.
- Soon after the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt announced that they'd be cutting ties with Qatar, Yemen joined them as well. As of Wednesday morning, seven nations have cut ties with Qatar: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Yemen, The Maldives, and Mauritania. Libya has also claimed to have cut ties with Qatar despite having no diplomatic representation in the country.
- The countries cite Qatar's support of the Islamic Brotherhood as their reason for cutting them off.
Infographics : Cutting off diplomatic ties with #Qatar #MoFAIC #UAE http://pic.twitter.com/XUcbR9z3To
- وزارة الخارجية (@MOFAUAE) June 6, 2017
- The UAE gave Qatari citizens living in the country 14 days to leave, while Qatari diplomats living in the UAE were asked to leave within 48 hours. UAE nationals are not permitted to travel to Qatar or to pass through in transit.
- The most immediate effect of the move has to do with air travel: hundreds of flights are being rerouted, as Emirates Airlines, Etihad, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia all halted service to and from Qatar on Tuesday morning.
- Qatar Airways is also barred from entering airspace in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Oman and Kuwait remain the only two countries in the GCC open to Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways flies to the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia, and with Eid holidays coming up, many hours will be added onto flight times as Qatar Airways' planes are rerouted to fly over Iran.
- "All customers booked on affected flights will be provided with alternative options, including the option of a full refund on any unused tickets and free rebooking to the nearest alternative Qatar Airways network destination," the airline said in a statement. Qatar Airways is working to transfer tickers to their partner airlines, including: airberlin, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LAN, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Royal Jordanian, S7 Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, and TAM Airlines.
- Middle East Aviation noted how badly this could affect air travel in the region.
More than 50 #QatarAirways flights will be cancelled daily if the dispute continues
- Middle East Aviation (@News_Flight) June 5, 2017
- Food is a major concern for people living in Qatar. Nearly 40 percent of all the country's food comes via their land border with Saudi, which was closed on Tuesday morning. As residents rushed to supermarkets to stock up on essentials, shelves around the country were empty hours after the announcement was made. Eighty percent of all of Qatar's food is imported from other countries in the Gulf.
- On Wednesday morning, Al Arabiya reported that UAE residents who showed support for Qatar on social media could face anywhere from three to 15 years of jail time, as well as a fine of AED500,000 ($136,124) .
- Ships flying the Qatari flag have been banned from entering ports in Fujairah and Jebel Ali in the UAE, as well as in ports in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. This prevents many items, including food, from being imported to Qatar.
- On Tuesday, the main office for Al Jazeera news was closed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Al Jazeera is a Qatari state-owned news outlet, and the electronic editions of Al Jazeera have also been blocked in the UAE. Qatari-owned BeIN Media Group channels have also been blocked in the UAE.
- Qatari troops have been removed from Yemen.
Stay tuned as we update this story as the situation unfolds.
10 Adorable Goodies to Split With Your BFF
I love treating my BFFs to gifts to remind them how important they are to me. Splitting items with your bestie not only puts a smile on their face, but makes you feel like you're connected to each other in some way, even when you're apart. We rounded up our favorite gift ideas perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because. Check them out.
Trader Joe's New IPA Is Gloriously Tasty and Ridiculously Cheap
Put the PBR and Tecate cans down, folks. There's a hoppier, boozier brew option that's easy on the wallet and taste buds. Trader Joe's newly released Boatswain American IPA comes in a six-pack of 12 ounce cans for only $5, and it's actually good!
My IPA-loving husband couldn't resist picking up a pack after spotting them during his last Trader Joe's run. We cracked open a can that evening while waiting for friends and our pizzas to arrive and instantly regretted not picking up more. The bold flavor of the hops was tamed with a heavy dose of malt, resulting in a mellow IPA with traces of bittersweet floral and citrus notes. Despite being easy to drink - even with heavy food like pizza - this beer has a boozy kick. I felt surprisingly buzzed after the first can, which makes sense when you consider the 6.7 percent alcohol volume. After friends arrived, we noticed that the Boatswain American IPA cleared out of the fridge faster than some of the stronger, more classic IPAs, like Sierra Nevada.
If you're looking for a cheap beer with big flavor and high alcohol level, you'll want to add this to your list of new Trader Joe's products to try. At just $5 for a six-pack, the risk factor is pretty low. It's the perfect beer to keep on hand for hosting BBQs but is also good for camping, poolside drinking, and any other Summer BYOB occasion you can think of.
20 Restaurant-Worthy Dipping Sauces You Can Totally Make at Home
What's a french fry or a chicken nugget without a dipping sauce for dunking? From fast-food copycat sauce recipes like Chick-fil-A's honey mustard to restaurant-worthy spreads like cilantro jalapeño sauce, there's a dipping sauce recipe that's sure to speak to you. Your fries, chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks, and egg rolls will be better than ever thanks to these 20 recipes for sauce that you totally can (and should) make at home.
I Finally Found the Perfect Pan and I'm Never Looking Back
If you're on the hunt for a nonstick pan that you will love tenderly, invest in a Scanpan. Before you freak out over the $125 price tag, allow me to explain. I discovered Scanpan during culinary school when I was on the hunt for a small nonstick pan for eggs. Wary of Teflon, I inquired about alternatives. The store employee shared that Scanpan is nontoxic, made of recycled aluminum and ceramic, doesn't scratch, can be used with metal utensils, can go in the oven . . . and despite the price sucking my bank account dry, I hightailed it to the cash register.
Sure enough, the Scanpan delivered on all those promises. I can scramble or fry eggs without them sticking. I can sear a steak. I can make oatmeal without soaking the pot for the next three days. Cleaning is a cinch too. I can't remember the last time I had to break a sweat scrubbing down a pan. The food just glides off. I've had my same pans for almost a decade now. I love them. However, they do require a little fussy maintenance to make them last longer, but when you just threw down 100 bucks for a pan, the extra effort pays off. Remember to use medium heat or lower when cooking with them and be sure to hand wash and dry them immediately after using. If you can get on board with those two habits, you'll be in cook's heaven.
I've since given Scanpans to my parents, boyfriend, and best friends (spoiler: it's my go-to wedding gift). They are all now Scanpan believers. The Scanpan is the perfect pan in my opinion, and I'm never looking back.
Everything You Need to Know About Each of Selena Gomez's Tattoos
At 24, Selena is just like every other 20-something who experiments with tattoos: starting off small (with a tiny one on her wrist) and working her way up to a whooping eight pieces of ink. The chart-topping singer now proudly showcases her tattoos - choosing hairstyles, red carpet looks, and swimsuits that put the spotlight on them - and openly discussing the special meaning behind each. Whether the ink was in honor of a family member or a phrase meant to motivate, they're all reflective of Selena's unique personal style. Read ahead to find out more about them.
Is There a Twin Baby Boom, or Are You Just Imagining It?
Image Source: Stocksnap / Pixabay
Twins are all the rage, at least amongst A-listers. Beyoncé and Jay Z are expecting twins later this year, and George and Amal Clooney just welcomed a pair. If you feel like you've been hearing about multiples more over the past few years, you're not mistaken. The American twin birth rate reached an all-time high in 2014, with a rate of 33.9 twins born per 1,000 births. In the three decades since 1980, the twin rate rose 76 percent and doubled among women aged 35 to 39. In a CDC study, the agency found that because of this increased rate, 865,000 additional sets of twins were born between 1980 and 2009. That's almost a million extra sets of twins!
More widespread use of fertility treatment can help explain this historical increase. But you never want to assume that's the case - since twins were around long before IUI or IVF. If you're curious about what has sparked this twin baby boom, we're here to separate the fact from the fiction.
What Causes Twins Besides Fertility Treatment
Older maternal age alone accounts for about one-third of the twin boom - having nothing to do with fertility treatment.
Today, women are having children later. In 1980, the mean age for mothers having their first child was 23. In 2016, it had risen to 28. According to the CDC, older maternal age alone accounts for about one-third of the twin boom - having nothing to do with fertility treatment. How come? Researchers have figured out that many women over 30 naturally produce more follicle-stimulating hormones, which raises the chance that multiple eggs will be ready for fertilization each cycle. If that happens, you get fraternal twins (or more). It's basically your body buying more lottery tickets each month hoping to hit the baby jackpot before menopause. Sometimes both tickets - or eggs - win.
Other personal factors raise your chances of having twins. If twins run on the woman's side of the family, that doubles your chances of having doubles. Tall women and those with a BMI over 30 have higher odds. And race has an impact, too. Non-Hispanic black women are more likely than white women to have twins, while Hispanic and Asian women are less likely than white women to become pregnant with multiples. Finally, past pregnancies can also predict your chances. If you've ever been pregnant before, you're more likely to have twins during subsequent pregnancies - and those chances raise again if you already have twins. How lucky!
Myths About Fertility Treatment and Twins
Factors like family history have been driving the birth of twins long before the twin boom. So what explains the rise since 1980? We know rising maternal age accounts for a third of it. The other two-thirds can be attributed to the greater use of fertility treatment. According to Dr. Marcy Maguire, who practices at Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, approximately 3 percent of all live births in the US are twins. But among pregnancies resulting from fertility treatment, 40 percent result in twin gestation. The vast majority of those are fraternal.
"Many people think that IVF has a higher risk of twin gestation than artificial insemination, but this is not true."
While it's true fertility treatment can lead to twins, there are many false understandings of how twins and fertility treatment go hand in hand. "Many people think that in vitro fertilization (IVF) has a higher risk of twin gestation than artificial insemination (IUI), but this is not true," Maguire explains. If you're not familiar with IUI, it's a cheaper more low-tech cousin to IVF. Because they are much less controlled, IUI cycles have a higher risk of multiple gestation. Maguire spells out how it works: "During an IUI cycle, a woman is given medication to cause her to ovulate more than one egg." (You may have heard of drugs like Clomiphene or Letrozole.) "Sperm is then placed into the uterus at an appropriate time to encourage conception. While inducing ovulation of more than one egg improves the chance of conception, it also significantly raises the risk of multiple gestation."
IVF, which involves manually combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish before transferring the embryo back to the uterus, did lead to more twins in the past. But Maguire points out that advancements in technology make IVF much more effective and twins less likely today: "Historically, during IVF cycles, physicians would transfer more than one embryo into a woman's uterus at the same time in order to improve her chance of conception." In fact, in 2000 it was common to transfer three or more embryos each cycle. Given improvements, physicians now can transfer just one embryo at a time. These single embryo transfers get high pregnancy rates, without a high chance of twins.
Identical twins are slightly increased in IVF pregnancies.
IUI and IVF also carry different chances of fraternal or identical twins. Fraternal twins occurs when two different eggs are fertilized by two different sperm. Identical twins occurs when one egg is fertilized by one sperm, but the resulting embryo splits into two embryos. "Artificial insemination (IUI) procedures increase the risk of fraternal twins by increasing the number of eggs and sperm in the uterus at the same time," Maguire explains. "The risk of fraternal twinning in patients undergoing IVF is only increased in women who elect to have more than one embryo transferred into their uterus at the same time." On the other hand, identical twins are slightly increased in IVF pregnancies, for unclear reasons that may have to do with embryo manipulation. Identical twins occur in approximately 0.4 percent of natural pregnancies and 1-5 percent of IVF pregnancies.
In her practice, Maguire has observed that patients seeking treatment for infertility often desire twins, since the idea of having a "complete family" after only one pregnancy can be very tempting. However she makes sure to fill them in on the downsides, which include higher risks for the mother and babies. "Twin pregnancies are associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery. Premature infants have a higher risk of multiple physical and intellectual disabilities, including learning deficits, respiratory issues, vision impairment, cerebral palsy, and even death." Women carrying twin pregnancies may experience dangerously high blood pressure, diabetes in pregnancy, pregnancy complications requiring bed rest, and other complications. When possible, she says, it is far safer to help patients have one healthy baby at a time.
Why We Might Have Reached "Peak Twinning"
While older mothers and an increased use of fertility treatment means classrooms will be filled with sets of twins for the next few decades, there's a chance we've reached peak twinning, especially as physicians learn more about the risks associated with twin pregnancies, Maguire says. With advancements in technology enabling excellent pregnancy rates with transfer of only one embryo in IVF, the rate of twin pregnancies shows signs of decline. Following 2014's peak of 33.9 twins per 1,000 births, the twin birth rate declined to 33.5 twins per 1,000 births in 2015 and again to 32.3 in 2016. That's still a lot higher than 1980, but we may be nearing the end of the twin baby boom.
Who Exactly Is Jane Davis on House of Cards?
It's no surprise to anyone who watches House of Cards that for Claire Underwood, using people to her advantage is simply par for the course - no matter the consequences. This is especially true in season five as Claire gains more and more sway in Washington, while earning more significant political experience. One individual who becomes very useful to Claire very quickly is newcomer Jane Davis (played by Patricia Clarkson).
Davis is introduced midseason as the Deputy Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade. During a meeting with Acting President Claire Underwood in episode seven, they are interrupted by a bomb scare suspected to be ICO's doing, and taken by Secret Service to a secure underground bunker. It's never really explained how Davis has the clearance to stay with Claire during the emergency, and she says she was simply told to go to the bunker by the agents. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Davis offers her help in gathering information on ICO through her "connections" with private contractors in the Middle East, and is able to discover the likely location of the terrorist group's leader. Now that's a good first impression.
Claire clearly recognizes Davis' potential as an asset, and throughout the rest of the season Davis is in on much of the Underwood's plotting to preserve their power. She doesn't shy away from getting involved in the web of deception and corruption that comes with working for the Underwoods. But this is House of Cards, after all, and Davis may simply be acting on behalf of the White House for as long as it benefits her own interests.
We know Claire is anything but naive, but she has a lot on her shoulders now that she's officially president, and her reliance on Davis during her rise to power could have unforeseen consequences. While Davis is helping the Underwood administration now, who knows what could happen if someone with her influence and connections decides it's no longer in her interest to support Claire?
Is It Halloween Yet? Nikkie Tutorials Has Convinced Us to Go as Wonder Woman
After seeing the new Wonder Woman film, we're all planning to dress as the kickass hero for Halloween. Beauty blogger Nikkie Tutorials is no exception and showed us exactly how to transform into the comic-book character to celebrate the girl-power-filled film.
Nikkie decided to go the 2D route and applied her makeup in the style of a comic rather than modeled after the Wonder Woman from the film. Using black and white liquid liners, Nikkie transformed herself into the heroine. The results are ultra impressive, and we're starting to practice the technique now to prepare for our next cosplay opportunity.
Keep reading to find out how to create this super look.
12 Things We Know About the Qatar Crisis So Far
On Monday morning, four countries - the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt - announced that they'd be cutting all diplomatic ties with the State of Qatar. The fallout started immediately and has escalated throughout the week. Here's everything we know so far.
- Soon after the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt announced that they'd be cutting ties with Qatar, Yemen joined them as well. As of Wednesday morning, seven nations have cut ties with Qatar: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Yemen, The Maldives, and Mauritania. Libya has also claimed to have cut ties with Qatar despite having no diplomatic representation in the country.
- The countries cite Qatar's support of the Islamic Brotherhood as their reason for cutting them off.
Infographics : Cutting off diplomatic ties with #Qatar #MoFAIC #UAE http://pic.twitter.com/XUcbR9z3To
- وزارة الخارجية (@MOFAUAE) June 6, 2017
- The UAE gave Qatari citizens living in the country 14 days to leave, while Qatari diplomats living in the UAE were asked to leave within 48 hours. UAE nationals are not permitted to travel to Qatar or to pass through in transit.
- The most immediate effect of the move has to do with air travel: hundreds of flights are being rerouted, as Emirates Airlines, Etihad, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia all halted service to and from Qatar on Tuesday morning.
- Qatar Airways is also barred from entering airspace in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Oman and Kuwait remain the only two countries in the GCC open to Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways flies to the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia, and with Eid holidays coming up, many hours will be added onto flight times as Qatar Airways' planes are rerouted to fly over Iran.
- "All customers booked on affected flights will be provided with alternative options, including the option of a full refund on any unused tickets and free rebooking to the nearest alternative Qatar Airways network destination," the airline said in a statement. Qatar Airways is working to transfer tickers to their partner airlines, including: airberlin, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LAN, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Royal Jordanian, S7 Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, and TAM Airlines.
- Middle East Aviation noted how badly this could affect air travel in the region.
More than 50 #QatarAirways flights will be cancelled daily if the dispute continues
- Middle East Aviation (@News_Flight) June 5, 2017
- Food is a major concern for people living in Qatar. Nearly 40 percent of all the country's food comes via their land border with Saudi, which was closed on Tuesday morning. As residents rushed to supermarkets to stock up on essentials, shelves around the country were empty hours after the announcement was made. Eighty percent of all of Qatar's food is imported from other countries in the Gulf.
- On Wednesday morning, Al Arabiya reported that UAE residents who showed support for Qatar on social media could face anywhere from three to 15 years of jail time, as well as a fine of AED500,000 ($136,124) .
- Ships flying the Qatari flag have been banned from entering ports in Fujairah and Jebel Ali in the UAE, as well as in ports in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. This prevents many items, including food, from being imported to Qatar.
- On Tuesday, the main office for Al Jazeera news was closed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Al Jazeera is a Qatari state-owned news outlet, and the electronic editions of Al Jazeera have also been blocked in the UAE. Qatari-owned BeIN Media Group channels have also been blocked in the UAE.
- Qatari troops have been removed from Yemen.
Stay tuned as we update this story as the situation unfolds.
37 Times Leslie Jones Lost Her Sh*t While Meeting Her Celebrity Idols
Leslie Jones has a selfie with every celebrity on the planet - or so it seems. If you've been keeping up with the Saturday Night Live star, you know how often Leslie shares behind-the-scenes photos of her epic celebrity encounters. The best part about her star-studded selfies is that they're usually perfectly imperfect. Whether someone's head is half cropped out, or the photo is somewhat blurry, we can't help but admire Leslie's unabashed excitement over meeting her celebrity idols. It also proves Leslie gets starstruck just like the rest of us. Read on to see 30-plus times Leslie took selfies with some of your favorite stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruno Mars, and Jay Z.
37 Times Leslie Jones Lost Her Sh*t While Meeting Her Celebrity Idols
Leslie Jones has a selfie with every celebrity on the planet - or so it seems. If you've been keeping up with the Saturday Night Live star, you know how often Leslie shares behind-the-scenes photos of her epic celebrity encounters. The best part about her star-studded selfies is that they're usually perfectly imperfect. Whether someone's head is half cropped out, or the photo is somewhat blurry, we can't help but admire Leslie's unabashed excitement over meeting her celebrity idols. It also proves Leslie gets starstruck just like the rest of us. Read on to see 30-plus times Leslie took selfies with some of your favorite stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruno Mars, and Jay Z.
The Zumba Dance For Daddy Yankee's "Manual de Trucos" Will Have You Working Out Instantly
Daddy Yankee might not be writing his songs with the sole purpose of having Zumba dance moves created for them, but he might as well be, because they are made to have you get down. A snippet of the reggaetonero's new song "Manual de Trucos" was released as part of a Zumba choreography video, and we're already working out to it as we speak - multitasking at its finest, right?
The song is described as Yankee's new merengue urbano, and after getting a taste of the sweat session we could get to it on the video above, we're dying to hear the full version and see an official routine - if you're impatient, there's already an unofficial video up on YouTube.
For his hit single "Hula Hoop," Yankee and Zumba released a choreography video that blew up all over the world. We already know that this one is going to do just as well, because the beat makes you want to get up and move. Grab some leggings, a shirt, and sneakers, and get ready to practice these dance moves over and over again.
How My Unlikely TV Habit Gives Me Newfound Hope For Democracy
2017 has been a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year for democracy.
Amidst a flurry of rollbacks, repeals, and pull-outs from the Trump administration, I've found myself searching for signs of the checks and balances I was taught to expect - hell, demand! - from our government. At the very least, some semblance of the (mostly) rational thinking that has traditionally been put forth by from the people in charge would be nice. Our legislative, executive and judicial branches feel exceedingly broken; it's as though the very ideals they were founded on are on the chopping block. Amidst all the chaos, however, there's one clear, shining beacon of hope. And despite how insanely boring it may sound, it comes in the form of congressional hearings.
Before your eyes glaze over, hear me out.
I've never been one of those people who actively seeks out the inner workings of government for entertainment. That is to say, you'll never catch me cross-checking the expected budget against realistic targets, or angrily shaking my fist at clauses in the full text of the AHCA, or hosting watching parties for bill votes. I'm more of a cable-news-and-internet gal, and the simple act of trying to watch hearings on CSPAN nearly put me off entirely. I don't get the channel in HD, and the pixelating images and distorted audio tends to make me feel like I've gone back in time. But once I discovered that I could stream the channel on my phone, the game instantly changed.
Almost overnight, I found myself becoming the kind of person who calls up friends and family and rants about how crazy and tunnel-visioned one senator was, or how one tiny detail that was maybe said offhandedly might actually be the truth we'd all been searching for. Congressional hearings were like the real-life version of Law & Order, except instead of being ripped from the headlines, they were making the headlines. As I said to my boyfriend a couple weeks ago, the congressional hearings were giving me life. They were a reminder of how things are supposed to work - and how two sides of the aisle can coexist in a way that feels like there's an end to all these means.
The Senate and House Select Committees on Intelligence have held several open, televised hearings on the Russia investigation over the last few months. And it's here that members of both chambers - and both parties - call witnesses to the stand and interrogate them on the things that we, the public, deserve to know the truth about. The witnesses can't reveal everything in open testimony, but the things that we're allowed to hear outside of the closed doors of briefing rooms have been some of the most incredible television I've ever watched. From Sally Yates telling the world that there was a "compromised situation" in the White House with Michael Flynn, to James Clapper's sassy clapback on the definition of leaks, to John Brennan's uncertainty about whether there was collusion - it was all pure, unadulterated infotainment.
Ultimately, it's the products of the quest for truth - and often, the direct acknowledgement of things that feel like they can't be right or just - that I've found solace in. To be clear, it's not a perfect process. The politics of both sides shows through in ways that are often cringeworthy. The leading questions, direct jabs across the aisle, and blatant disrespect to certain individuals almost always lead to an awkward silence thereafter, which is both completely intolerable and totally gripping. But at the same time, the fact that I ams watching something that feels like a defense against a broader insanity sweeping the country makes me feel like maybe, somehow, there is a reason to believe we'll get through these insanely dark times.
In just a few days, former FBI Director James Comey will give testimony in front of members of the Senate for the second time this year. It's a big deal: since he first took the stand back in May, he's been fired by the president and has been the center of wide-ranging questions about what's gone down - not just since Trump took office but in the lead-up to the election itself. And Comey is no stranger to the theatrics inherent to these hearings.
It was almost exactly 10 years ago that Comey testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on NSA surveillance. It was there that he dropped the bombshell that then-President George W. Bush had attempted to get Attorney General John Ashcroft to sign off on a wiretapping program from his hospital bed - and the only reason that they weren't able to pull it off was that Comey himself had run to the hospital and interceded in the nick of time. Not only was this "improper conduct" something that would stain the Bush administration for years thereafter, it also established Comey's reputation as a top-notch storyteller, buttressed by the fact that all of his stories were 100 percent verified truths.
Comey's testimony in early May was somewhat of a show-stopper in and of itself, with his now-infamous revelation that the fact that he may have influenced the election in any way made him "mildly nauseous." And while many of us may still question the motivation behind the timing and presentation of his announcements on the Clinton email scandal, it only adds to the dramatic tension that will play out when he takes the stand on Thursday to finally tell the story that's been years in the making. (Plus, as we now know, Comey is a meticulous note taker, and the man has receipts.)
Ultimately, we have no idea what will come of Thursday's hearings, or if any charges will be brought as a result of the investigations which the special prosecutor and the congressional committees are undertaking. But what I can definitively say, without a doubt, that in a year full of unexpected and disappointing developments, congressional hearings have given me hope for democracy. And for now, that's enough for me.
You Could So Easily DIY Kim Kardashian's Chanel Bikini
Kim Kardashian recently pranced around in two different black bikinis drinking Casamigos tequila. The liquor company was founded by George Clooney and Cindy Crawford's husband, Rande Gerber, which makes it pretty fancy-schmancy if you ask us. Obviously, this calls for a high-fashion swimsuit. Being that Kim is a fan of the designer logo style, we weren't surprised to spot Chanel's interlocking Cs on the bottom of her string two-piece.
While we're betting Kim sourced her design from some vintage trove, you could easily DIY this look for yourself. All it takes are your most basic swimsuit and the addition of a belt, brooch, or Chanel pin. Scroll for all the inspiration and tequila shots you'll need, then shop the finest beachwear accessories you could ever dream of.
You Could So Easily DIY Kim Kardashian's Chanel Bikini
Kim Kardashian recently pranced around in two different black bikinis drinking Casamigos tequila. The liquor company was founded by George Clooney and Cindy Crawford's husband, Rande Gerber, which makes it pretty fancy-schmancy if you ask us. Obviously, this calls for a high-fashion swimsuit. Being that Kim is a fan of the designer logo style, we weren't surprised to spot Chanel's interlocking Cs on the bottom of her string two-piece.
While we're betting Kim sourced her design from some vintage trove, you could easily DIY this look for yourself. All it takes are your most basic swimsuit and the addition of a belt, brooch, or Chanel pin. Scroll for all the inspiration and tequila shots you'll need, then shop the finest beachwear accessories you could ever dream of.
4 Hot Car Tips For Parents - Even If You Think It Could Never Happen to You
The best part of the Spring and Summer months - the sunshine and warm weather - can also be the worst part for some parents, should they make the fatal mistake of leaving their child in a hot car. Although many adults can't fathom making this kind of mistake, every year more and more tragic news stories are written about forgotten children, or those who locked themselves into a car while playing unattended, many of whom lose their lives. Leaving a child in a hot car is an unthinkable accident, and the fact that it could happen to any parent is truly scary.
According to Kars4Kids, 618 children have died as a result heatstroke after being left in a car since 1998. Of those deaths, 52 percent of them were the result of an adult accidentally forgetting a child in a car. During the Summer months, a car's temperature can hit 109 degrees (or more!) in under 15 minutes. However, a child's internal organs start shutting down once it reaches 104 degrees.
A child's body heats up to three to five times faster than an adult's, which is part of the reason 87 percent of victims of vehicular heat stroke are 3 years old or younger. Kids and Cars wants parents to realize that even though they may think it can't and won't happen to them, a child dies, on average, every nine days from being left in a hot car.
Kids and Cars believes that it's a combination of education and technology, not just being a superior parent, that can help prevent these tragedies from occurring. "The majority of parents are misinformed and would like to believe that they could never 'forget' their child in a vehicle," its website states. "The most dangerous mistake a parent or caregiver can make is to think leaving a child alone in a vehicle could never happen to them or their family."
Check out these four tips to help prevent this mistake from ever happening to your family.
- Leave something in the back seat. Some people take off their nondriving shoe and toss it in the back to force them to always open the back door; others find that just having to put it back on each time before leaving the car serves as a solid reminder to take their kiddo out with them. You could also leave your purse full of essentials on the back seat floor, or even your cell phone (which also helps eliminate any urge to text and drive!)
.
- Use technology to your advantage. By downloading this handy app, you'll be alerted each time you leave the car to check the back with a personalized reminder sent straight to your phone. As soon as you get out, a picture of your little one pops up on your phone to ensure that you're not leaving him or her behind.
- Make a habit out of opening the back door before locking the car. Before leaving, some people always put their parking break on, some always flip their mirror in, and some always lock their car. Make your habit to always open the back door, no matter if you need to grab something or not, and then always lock your door after to ensure that a little one doesn't end up playing in the car without you knowing.
- Don't rely on the rear view mirror. When a baby is in a rear-facing car seat, it looks the same whether they're in it or not from the front seat. Never be too confident that they aren't there, and instead, always take a quick look in the back to double check - once a baby falls asleep in their seat, they become hard to both see and hear, which can be a tragic combination.
The Zumba Dance For Daddy Yankee's "Manual de Trucos" Will Have You Working Out Instantly
Daddy Yankee might not be writing his songs with the sole purpose of having Zumba dance moves created for them, but he might as well be, because they are made to have you get down. A snippet of the reggaetonero's new song "Manual de Trucos" was released as part of a Zumba choreography video, and we're already working out to it as we speak - multitasking at its finest, right?
The song is described as Yankee's new merengue urbano, and after getting a taste of the sweat session we could get to it on the video above, we're dying to hear the full version and see an official routine - if you're impatient, there's already an unofficial video up on YouTube.
For his hit single "Hula Hoop," Yankee and Zumba released a choreography video that blew up all over the world. We already know that this one is going to do just as well, because the beat makes you want to get up and move. Grab some leggings, a shirt, and sneakers, and get ready to practice these dance moves over and over again.
A FOX News Host Tells Trump Fake News Isn't the Problem - He Is
President Donald Trump's erratic tweets about the London attacks and the travel ban make his administration look like a mess, and one FOX news host is taking note. Neil Cavuto, who hosts the FOX Show Your World With Neil Cavuto, remarked on the president's tweeting behavior on June 6, saying, "Mr. President, it is not the fake news media that's your problem. It's you."
Cavuto continued with, "It's not just your tweeting, it's your scapegoating. It's your refusal to see that sometimes, you're the one who's feeding your own beast." The host spoke about how the president continues to turn on people in his administration, even though they're the ones fighting for him. Cavuto also touched upon Trump's supporters and what they actually want from him. "That's what your most ardent supporters are pushing for, for you to keep pushing. They want you signing legislation, not settling endless scores. They're not saying, never let 'em see you tweet. They are saying, never let 'em see you sweat." You can watch the segment ahead.
The talk ends with Cavuto saying, "Now, just because your own critics never thought you'd make it to the White House doesn't mean you shouldn't listen to those who want to see you thrive in that White House. They're not your problem, Mister President. Like I said, you are." It's not the first time a FOX host has taken a stance against the president, despite the network's well-documented conservative leaning, and it most likely won't be the last.
See How Hot Urban Decay's Naked Heat Palette Looks on Different Skin Tones
Exactly 24 hours after the embargo dropped on Urban Decay's sizzling newest product, the Naked Heat palette ($54), we wrote this article. And in just a day, the #NakedHeat hashtag on Instagram was already flooded with over 1,000 posts featuring the 12 red-toned shades.
Some shared images of the product, while those lucky enough to get their hands (and makeup brushes!) on it ahead of sales showed how gorgeous it looks swatched on skin or smoked out on eyes. Even influencers like Patrick Starr and celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes participated.
Ahead, we've shared looks from a diverse group who have already brought the fiery shades to life on their faces. The results are stunning and prove red, copper, and burnt orange look good on everyone, no matter your complexion or eye color. Can June 12 - the official launch date - come any sooner?
4 Hot Car Tips For Parents - Even If You Think It Could Never Happen to You
The best part of the Spring and Summer months - the sunshine and warm weather - can also be the worst part for some parents, should they make the fatal mistake of leaving their child in a hot car. Although many adults can't fathom making this kind of mistake, every year more and more tragic news stories are written about forgotten children, or those who locked themselves into a car while playing unattended, many of whom lose their lives. Leaving a child in a hot car is an unthinkable accident, and the fact that it could happen to any parent is truly scary.
According to Kars4Kids, 618 children have died as a result heatstroke after being left in a car since 1998. Of those deaths, 52 percent of them were the result of an adult accidentally forgetting a child in a car. During the Summer months, a car's temperature can hit 109 degrees (or more!) in under 15 minutes. However, a child's internal organs start shutting down once it reaches 104 degrees.
A child's body heats up to three to five times faster than an adult's, which is part of the reason 87 percent of victims of vehicular heat stroke are 3 years old or younger. Kids and Cars wants parents to realize that even though they may think it can't and won't happen to them, a child dies, on average, every nine days from being left in a hot car.
Kids and Cars believes that it's a combination of education and technology, not just being a superior parent, that can help prevent these tragedies from occurring. "The majority of parents are misinformed and would like to believe that they could never 'forget' their child in a vehicle," its website states. "The most dangerous mistake a parent or caregiver can make is to think leaving a child alone in a vehicle could never happen to them or their family."
Check out these four tips to help prevent this mistake from ever happening to your family.
- Leave something in the back seat. Some people take off their nondriving shoe and toss it in the back to force them to always open the back door; others find that just having to put it back on each time before leaving the car serves as a solid reminder to take their kiddo out with them. You could also leave your purse full of essentials on the back seat floor, or even your cell phone (which also helps eliminate any urge to text and drive!)
.
- Use technology to your advantage. By downloading this handy app, you'll be alerted each time you leave the car to check the back with a personalized reminder sent straight to your phone. As soon as you get out, a picture of your little one pops up on your phone to ensure that you're not leaving him or her behind.
- Make a habit out of opening the back door before locking the car. Before leaving, some people always put their parking break on, some always flip their mirror in, and some always lock their car. Make your habit to always open the back door, no matter if you need to grab something or not, and then always lock your door after to ensure that a little one doesn't end up playing in the car without you knowing.
- Don't rely on the rear view mirror. When a baby is in a rear-facing car seat, it looks the same whether they're in it or not from the front seat. Never be too confident that they aren't there, and instead, always take a quick look in the back to double check - once a baby falls asleep in their seat, they become hard to both see and hear, which can be a tragic combination.
Remember When Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey Were Basically a Real-Life Barbie and Ken?
The '90s were chock-full of glorious celebrity couples, but the '00s also had its fair share of gems. Not only did the era of AIM and Louis Vuitton gift us with Hollywood pairings like Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams and Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, but it also gave us one of the best pop music couples since Britney and Justin: Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson. The two had an instant connection when they first met at a Christmas party in 1998 and started dating shortly after. Nick even told his mom they would get married after their first encounter. About two years later, the pair mixed business with pleasure when Jessica went on tour with Nick's band, 98 Degrees. Aside from making sweet music together, they both appeared in each other's music videos.
In 2001, Jessica broke things off to focus on her music, but they eventually reconciled following the September 11 attacks. They announced their engagement in February 2002 and tied the knot during a lavish ceremony in October. Aside from sharing the stage and the red carpet, the duo also shared the screen for their ridiculously addicting reality series, Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, on MTV. While the show and their relationship ended in 2005, their picture-perfect love still holds a special place in our hearts. If you're feeling nostalgic, look back at their Barbie and Ken romance.
A FOX News Host Tells Trump Fake News Isn't the Problem - He Is
President Donald Trump's erratic tweets about the London attacks and the travel ban make his administration look like a mess, and one FOX news host is taking note. Neil Cavuto, who hosts the FOX Show Your World With Neil Cavuto, remarked on the president's tweeting behavior on June 6, saying, "Mr. President, it is not the fake news media that's your problem. It's you."
Cavuto continued with, "It's not just your tweeting, it's your scapegoating. It's your refusal to see that sometimes, you're the one who's feeding your own beast." The host spoke about how the president continues to turn on people in his administration, even though they're the ones fighting for him. Cavuto also touched upon Trump's supporters and what they actually want from him. "That's what your most ardent supporters are pushing for, for you to keep pushing. They want you signing legislation, not settling endless scores. They're not saying, never let 'em see you tweet. They are saying, never let 'em see you sweat." You can watch the segment ahead.
The talk ends with Cavuto saying, "Now, just because your own critics never thought you'd make it to the White House doesn't mean you shouldn't listen to those who want to see you thrive in that White House. They're not your problem, Mister President. Like I said, you are." It's not the first time a FOX host has taken a stance against the president, despite the network's well-documented conservative leaning, and it most likely won't be the last.
Remember When Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey Were Basically a Real-Life Barbie and Ken?
The '90s were chock-full of glorious celebrity couples, but the '00s also had its fair share of gems. Not only did the era of AIM and Louis Vuitton gift us with Hollywood pairings like Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams and Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, but it also gave us one of the best pop music couples since Britney and Justin: Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson. The two had an instant connection when they first met at a Christmas party in 1998 and started dating shortly after. Nick even told his mom they would get married after their first encounter. About two years later, the pair mixed business with pleasure when Jessica went on tour with Nick's band, 98 Degrees. Aside from making sweet music together, they both appeared in each other's music videos.
In 2001, Jessica broke things off to focus on her music, but they eventually reconciled following the September 11 attacks. They announced their engagement in February 2002 and tied the knot during a lavish ceremony in October. Aside from sharing the stage and the red carpet, the duo also shared the screen for their ridiculously addicting reality series, Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, on MTV. While the show and their relationship ended in 2005, their picture-perfect love still holds a special place in our hearts. If you're feeling nostalgic, look back at their Barbie and Ken romance.
Walmart Will Change the Way You Grocery Shop With Its New "Vending Machine"
Plenty of grocery stores have begun using delivery services, but Walmart's new invention has taken convenience to a whole new level. Its new kiosk is essentially a vending machine that allows customers to place orders online, drive up to a Walmart parking lot, press some buttons, and boom: a door will slide open and their groceries will appear, bagged and ready to go. The high-tech Walmart machine is 20 by 80 feet, and it contains refrigerators and freezers to keep all the food fresh. The service is currently being tested in the town of Warr Acres, OK, but we're crossing our fingers that it makes its way across the US. No human interaction or long lines for grocery shopping? Sign us up! Watch Walmart's official video to get a full sense of how the revolutionary service works.
See How Hot Urban Decay's Naked Heat Palette Looks on Different Skin Tones
Exactly 24 hours after the embargo dropped on Urban Decay's sizzling newest product, the Naked Heat palette ($54), we wrote this article. And in just a day, the #NakedHeat hashtag on Instagram was already flooded with over 1,000 posts featuring the 12 red-toned shades.
Some shared images of the product, while those lucky enough to get their hands (and makeup brushes!) on it ahead of sales showed how gorgeous it looks swatched on skin or smoked out on eyes. Even influencers like Patrick Starr and celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes participated.
Ahead, we've shared looks from a diverse group who have already brought the fiery shades to life on their faces. The results are stunning and prove red, copper, and burnt orange look good on everyone, no matter your complexion or eye color. Can June 12 - the official launch date - come any sooner?
Walmart Will Change the Way You Grocery Shop With Its New "Vending Machine"
Plenty of grocery stores have begun using delivery services, but Walmart's new invention has taken convenience to a whole new level. Its new kiosk is essentially a vending machine that allows customers to place orders online, drive up to a Walmart parking lot, press some buttons, and boom: a door will slide open and their groceries will appear, bagged and ready to go. The high-tech Walmart machine is 20 by 80 feet, and it contains refrigerators and freezers to keep all the food fresh. The service is currently being tested in the town of Warr Acres, OK, but we're crossing our fingers that it makes its way across the US. No human interaction or long lines for grocery shopping? Sign us up! Watch Walmart's official video to get a full sense of how the revolutionary service works.
The Mummy, Frankenstein, and More: a Rundown of Dark Universe's Monster-Filled Lineup
For anyone heading to the movies to watch the reboot of The Mummy, starring Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe, don't expect to see the same kind of enjoyably preposterous action-adventure Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz blessed us with in the 1999 original. Instead, the film seems more interested in setting up Universal Pictures's brand new franchise of monster movies called the "Dark Universe." An obvious answer to the highly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (and Warner Bros.'s "MonsterVerse," to a lesser extent) the Dark Universe aims to make classic movie monsters the new superheroes. Here's what we know about the Dark Universe so far.
The Movies
While speaking to Fandom, Mummy director and producer Alex Kurtzman revealed the movie lineup the studio already has in the works. "We know we're going to do Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Phantom of the Opera, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Invisible Man," he said. "There are characters within those films that can grow and expand and maybe even spin-off. I think that digging into deep mythologies about monsters around the world is fair game for us, as well, and connecting the monsters that we know to some surprising monsters could also be really interesting."
The Actors
Excluding Universal's poorly received Dracula Untold with Luke Evans in 2014, Cruise's The Mummy is the first in this new shared universe and will be followed by Beauty and the Beast director Bill Condon's take on Bride of Frankenstein. Javier Bardem has already signed on to play Frankenstein's Monster in the latter film, but the female lead has yet to be cast. Kurtzman expressed interest in some of Hollywood's A-list. "I'd love to bring Jennifer Lawrence in," he told Fandom. "I'd love to see Charlize Theron in there, Angelina Jolie."
Other talent already locked down includes Russell Crowe as Dr. Henry Jekyll in The Mummy, who leads the top-secret Prodigium - an organization designed to capture, study, and neutralize any monsters or evil threats roaming the world. We have no doubt he, and possibly Mummy costar Annabelle Wallis, will pop up in later films. Johnny Depp is also a part of the Dark Universe, having signed on to play Dr. Griffin in The Invisible Man. Maybe he and Mr. Hyde will go head to head?
The Release Dates
Once The Mummy drops on June 9, the next Dark Universe flick to hit theaters is Bride of Frankenstein on Feb. 19, 2019. The rest of the premieres for the movies on their lineup are still TBD.
Happy Father's Day to Every Other Family Member Who Plays the Dad Role
My mom passed away when I was 10 years old and, so, since then Mother's Day has always been a hard day to get through. I know what I was missing out on - as a kid, it was making cards out of construction paper that my mom would say were beautiful; as a teenager, it was missing out on the chance to feel proud about having enough money to buy a card and a small present; and as an adult, it was making a salary and not being able to take her out and spoil her.
I don't have the same mixed feelings about Father's Day.
I know who I celebrate on Father's Day - it's my uncle who did school pickup and drop-off every single day, who helped me pack for college, and who figured out ways to make ends meet after my mom died.
It's my mom, who while she was alive, never left me wanting for a strong-willed role in my life; she was that and more.
And the narrative extends beyond me. I'm not the only Latina who grew up without a biological father, and I'm definitely not the only one who had others step into that role in magnificently selfless and impactful ways.
It's every mom who pulled double the weight and never dropped the ball long enough for you to feel that you were different or at a loss.
It's the grandpa who hugged you when you cried and cleaned your knee when you fell off your first bike.
It's the older brother who grew up too fast for his liking but who never let you know that. The one who danced with you at your quinceañera.
It's your older cousins who shared their parents, their toys, or their feelings to help you feel less alone.
It's your uncles who taught you what strong, and present, men were like.
To them we say happy Father's Day, because they taught you through example the role dads are supposed to play in your life.
Like any other parent, they're meant to be present and available. They're meant to be strict and compassionate. They're meant to pick you up from your friend's house when it's dark out and remind you that you're strong and that they trust you.
Dad is what you call the people who show up. Happy Father's Day is what you say to the men who gave you a clear vision of the kind of men you choose to have in your life, whether as friends or significant others.
Happy Father's Day to all those who made it clear that we don't settle, that we retain the power to redefine a day to fit our own narratives, and that we have nothing to be ashamed of just because we have more than one person to celebrate on this day.
9 Amazing Things to Do on the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia
When scoping out destinations for an international trip, the Caribbean Sea is one of the first spots on the map to consider. The tiny islands that line the body of water boast some of the richest cultures and most beautiful beaches in the world. Luckily for me, I have the privilege of calling one of them home.
St. Lucia, also known as the Helen of the West Indies, may not always be the first island to come to mind when thinking of widely popular Caribbean destinations. But having my entire family hail from the island (and from firsthand experience), I can vouch that it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. The petite land is full of distinct culture, beaches, and attractions that you can only find within its span, making it the perfect destination for your next spontaneous getaway.
I've picked out some must-do activities to add to your itinerary when you touch down. From iconic hiking trails to local culture gems, you'll want to book a trip ASAP.
What's the Difference Between Anxiety and Stress, and Are They Interchangeable?
"You're just stressed," says a person who does not deal with anxiety. "No, my thoughts and feelings are spiraling out of control, I can't breathe, there's a sinking feeling in my stomach that has been there for days, I can't sleep, I am convinced I'm dying at least 10 times a day. And I forgot to turn off my straightener, probably." As a person who has dealt with serious anxiety issues, nothing bothers me more than someone deducing what I'm going through into your average bout of low-key stress.
For me, stress is when I have a lot on my plate and am worried about getting it all done in time. Anxiety is the paralyzing notion that nothing I ever do will be enough, and there's no tangible way to even begin to fix it. Pretty different, right? Well, Dr. Alison Darcy, a clinical psychologist and CEO of Woebot, explained how the stress and anxiety are connected and how aspects of both aren't as different as you'd think. So, how do you differentiate stress from anxiety? And are they interchangeable? While the two are undeniably very different issues, they can, in some cases, be addressed and helped in similar ways.
What is the difference between stress and anxiety?
"Stress is when the perception of what you need to do is going beyond your perceived capability to get it done. A useful distinction is 'healthy worry' vs. anxiety. Worry is something that's reasonably healthy, it's adaptive, it makes sure our Ts are crossed and Is are dotted when we're worrying about things, and helps us be conscientious," said Darcy.
It becomes maladaptive anxiety when these worries are keeping us up at night, when it's something that we can't easily shake.
"Then you're thinking catastrophes, and you're thinking worst-case scenarios," said Darcy, "when actually if you could dial it down to an 'adaptive level,' you'd be like, 'Oh, I want to make sure I do a good job of this presentation tomorrow.' And it becomes much more behaviorally adaptive. 'Oh, I'll just prepare' rather than worrying about making a complete fool of yourself with this presentation."
This type of anxiety is different from regular stress, so Darcy suggests the way to "dial it down" is to write down all of the things you're thinking and look at those thoughts to see if they are distorted.
So are anxiety and stress interchangeable?
Well, that depends. Because there are different types of anxiety and manifestations of the mental illness, it certainly isn't the same thing as stress, therefore they are not interchangeable in that sense. However, in some cases, Darcy said that the way we address anxiety and chronic stress can be interchangeable.
From a clinician's point of view, she thinks about stress as being a more physiological state, and particularly chronic stress would be referred to in the medical and professional in terms of the physiological effects of long-term exposure to cortisol. A stressful state and an anxious state are quite similar because anxiety has this physiological side as well as a psychological side. She even went as far as to say that in some ways, stress and anxiety are interchangeable in how they work inside of you and that they can be treated in similar ways.
"We're all walking around with these distorted thoughts that we take as 100 percent true. We believe that's the truth because we're not used to getting outside of ourselves."
"It would be this process of identifying what's the situation in which that exemplifies what you're feeling. Let's think about how you're feeling and what does that stress look like to you? Some people feel it very mentally, like 'I'm having all these racing thoughts of concern and anxiety,' and other people feel both stress and anxiety physiologically - 'I can't breathe, my palms are sweating.' And so I think you'd want to differentiate between those two states and then break down what is the thinking behind it. What are you telling yourself that's causing you to have this stress response or this anxious response? And let's really test that against the reality of the situation. We're all walking around with these distorted thoughts that we take as 100 percent true. We believe that's the truth because we're not used to getting outside of ourselves."
Cognitive behavorial therapy involves "homework" that requires patients to write down those distorted thoughts so that they get them out and hopefully can look at them more objectively in order to address the stress or anxiety they are causing someone. This form of therapy helps those dealing with both stress and/or anxiety, despite the fact that they are two different things entirely.
Stress, then, is something that is more easily redirected into something positive and actionable, whereas anxiety can (and does) have physiological and psychological effects that differ and are often maladaptive. Still, the key for both is to recognize the distorted thoughts and feelings in an effort to "dial them back" and address them in order to either overcome them or transform them into something positive and even beneficial.
Daisy Duke Has Nothing on How These 15 It Girls Style Their Denim Shorts
Denim cutoffs have been a wardrobe staple for as long we as can remember. Just like the classic jeans and white t-shirt pairing, celebrities turn to their baby blues when the temperature starts rising. But after years of wearing trusty denim shorts, it can be tough to find fresh and innovative ways to style them. That's why turned to our favorite A-listers for a new dose of outfit inspiration. From Kendall Jenner's off-duty look to Selena Gomez's Western take, you'll have a crop of exciting ideas in no time.
The Mummy, Frankenstein, and More: a Rundown of Dark Universe's Monster-Filled Lineup
For anyone heading to the movies to watch the reboot of The Mummy, starring Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe, don't expect to see the same kind of enjoyably preposterous action-adventure Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz blessed us with in the 1999 original. Instead, the film seems more interested in setting up Universal Pictures's brand new franchise of monster movies called the "Dark Universe." An obvious answer to the highly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (and Warner Bros.'s "MonsterVerse," to a lesser extent) the Dark Universe aims to make classic movie monsters the new superheroes. Here's what we know about the Dark Universe so far.
The Movies
While speaking to Fandom, Mummy director and producer Alex Kurtzman revealed the movie lineup the studio already has in the works. "We know we're going to do Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Phantom of the Opera, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Invisible Man," he said. "There are characters within those films that can grow and expand and maybe even spin-off. I think that digging into deep mythologies about monsters around the world is fair game for us, as well, and connecting the monsters that we know to some surprising monsters could also be really interesting."
The Actors
Excluding Universal's poorly received Dracula Untold with Luke Evans in 2014, Cruise's The Mummy is the first in this new shared universe and will be followed by Beauty and the Beast director Bill Condon's take on Bride of Frankenstein. Javier Bardem has already signed on to play Frankenstein's Monster in the latter film, but the female lead has yet to be cast. Kurtzman expressed interest in some of Hollywood's A-list. "I'd love to bring Jennifer Lawrence in," he told Fandom. "I'd love to see Charlize Theron in there, Angelina Jolie."
Other talent already locked down includes Russell Crowe as Dr. Henry Jekyll in The Mummy, who leads the top-secret Prodigium - an organization designed to capture, study, and neutralize any monsters or evil threats roaming the world. We have no doubt he, and possibly Mummy costar Annabelle Wallis, will pop up in later films. Johnny Depp is also a part of the Dark Universe, having signed on to play Dr. Griffin in The Invisible Man. Maybe he and Mr. Hyde will go head to head?
The Release Dates
Once The Mummy drops on June 9, the next Dark Universe flick to hit theaters is Bride of Frankenstein on Feb. 19, 2019. The rest of the premieres for the movies on their lineup are still TBD.
Happy Father's Day to Every Other Family Member Who Plays the Dad Role
My mom passed away when I was 10 years old and, so, since then Mother's Day has always been a hard day to get through. I know what I was missing out on - as a kid, it was making cards out of construction paper that my mom would say were beautiful; as a teenager, it was missing out on the chance to feel proud about having enough money to buy a card and a small present; and as an adult, it was making a salary and not being able to take her out and spoil her.
I don't have the same mixed feelings about Father's Day.
I know who I celebrate on Father's Day - it's my uncle who did school pickup and drop-off every single day, who helped me pack for college, and who figured out ways to make ends meet after my mom died.
It's my mom, who while she was alive, never left me wanting for a strong-willed role in my life; she was that and more.
And the narrative extends beyond me. I'm not the only Latina who grew up without a biological father, and I'm definitely not the only one who had others step into that role in magnificently selfless and impactful ways.
It's every mom who pulled double the weight and never dropped the ball long enough for you to feel that you were different or at a loss.
It's the grandpa who hugged you when you cried and cleaned your knee when you fell off your first bike.
It's the older brother who grew up too fast for his liking but who never let you know that. The one who danced with you at your quinceañera.
It's your older cousins who shared their parents, their toys, or their feelings to help you feel less alone.
It's your uncles who taught you what strong, and present, men were like.
To them we say happy Father's Day, because they taught you through example the role dads are supposed to play in your life.
Like any other parent, they're meant to be present and available. They're meant to be strict and compassionate. They're meant to pick you up from your friend's house when it's dark out and remind you that you're strong and that they trust you.
Dad is what you call the people who show up. Happy Father's Day is what you say to the men who gave you a clear vision of the kind of men you choose to have in your life, whether as friends or significant others.
Happy Father's Day to all those who made it clear that we don't settle, that we retain the power to redefine a day to fit our own narratives, and that we have nothing to be ashamed of just because we have more than one person to celebrate on this day.
20 Pan Dulce Products So Sweet You Won't Be Able to Resist Them
If you can't resist the sweet taste of Mexican conchas or pan dulce and are looking to declare your love in more ways than simply eating them daily, then you'll appreciate all of the products inspired by the treat we've found. You can physically show your love with a throw pillow, shirt, earrings, rings, and even a bath bomb. Keep scrolling and get ready to be in concha heaven.
Beauty Babes Are Creating "Super" Badass Looks With Their Wonder Woman Brushes
From the moment we set eyes on Luxie Beauty's Wonder Woman brush set, we knew that it was a must buy . . . and now that beauty babes are starting to create looks using the "super" tools, we're even more convinced. Sure, the red, blue, and gold looks are the brainchild of each makeup maven, but we're believers that the brushes (which are inspired by Diana's armor from the empowering film) impart an extra dose of heroic skill.
Of course, customers are still receiving their kits in the mail, but the first few makeup looks created with the brushes have taken our breath away. Read on for several stunning Wonder Woman beauty looks created with the Luxie collaboration, and even get tutorials for a couple! When it comes to superhero makeup, count us in.
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