Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
jeudi 8 juin 2017
SickKids launches partnership with 2 hospitals to improve children's care
Three Ontario hospitals have launched an official partnership aimed at improving health care for children who receive services at more than one facility.
Get Ready to Work Up a Sweat With Free Fitness Classes at Disney Resorts!
If you needed another good excuse to book a trip to your favorite Disney resorts, we have good news for you. Walt Disney World is now offering free yoga classes at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The complimentary event, aptly titled Rise and Shine Yoga, will reportedly be offered at the resort on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:15 a.m. sharp. No need to worry about lugging a yoga mat with you, either. Free yoga mats will be provided for all guests who wish to attend. All you have to do is show up at Boca Chica, also known as building eight at the resort, and enjoy your free yoga session - no advance reservations required.
Disneyland's California Adventure Park is also getting in on the free fitness action, offering complimentary classes every Tuesday led by certified instructors. If you're looking for a workout that's "a blend of stretching and classic Pilates," then this one has your name written all over it. You'll have to act fast, though, since the program ends Nov. 21, 2017. Your magical workout awaits you.
14 Cool Portable Speakers You Can Take Anywhere
A portable speaker is a must have if you're constantly on the go. Whether you're hosting a party, at the pool, or on a trip, the tech product is so convenient to have. You can set the whole mood of the space simply by pressing play. We curated a list of our favorite (and useful) portable speakers. Grab one so it will be on hand the next time you need some jams. It will be an excellent investment.
5 Science-Backed Fixes That Will Help You Lose Weight
It's no surprise that the majority of dieters blame a lack of self-control on their failure to reach their feel-great weight. However, if you believe that you've inherited the low willpower gene, think again. In fact, willpower can actually be strengthened with proper training - just like lifting weights can pump up your muscles. And knowing the right exercises for your brain is the key to replenishing this resource.
Ready for the willpower workout? Below are five research-based mental practices that will help improve decision making, conquer cravings, and keep your diet on track.
Eat the Right Carbs
Self-control is in lock step with your blood sugar. Research from Florida State University reported that when blood sugar levels plummet, you lose your ability to resist temptation. In order to keep blood sugars in check, eat slow-to-digest (or low-glycemic) carbs such as fruit, veggies, beans, and whole grains. And keep this tip in mind the next time you decide to indulge on a piece of cake during the impromptu office party: refrain from eating sweets on an empty stomach - this will only result in a quick spike in sugar levels, followed by the dreaded sugar crash.
Out of Sight, Out of Mouth
One of the best ways to keep your ironclad willpower from turning to tin is to steer clear of your downfall foods - meaning your personal "trigger" foods, as well as those universal problematic foods that contain the can't-resist combo of sugar, fat, and salt: French fries, salty snacks, baked goods, ice cream, pizza, and chocolate. Even just being in the presence of these classic comfort food favorites can suck up your self-control. Yet avoiding eye contact will encourage you to stay focused.
Limit Food Media
Studies indicate that watching food advertisements can light up certain areas of our brain, which in turn, heighten our cravings. Also, similar research states the same reaction takes place in our brain when we watch cooking shows (sorry, Rachael Ray!) or spend time scrolling through drool-worthy food images and recipes on Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook. So in other words, stop with the #foodporn.
Plan Ahead
Here's a little food for thought: researchers at Cornell University reveal that we are faced with about 220 food-related decisions every day, so the more of those choices that are left to chance (Which cereal should I buy? Do I want a turkey sandwich or salad for lunch?), the quicker you'll deplete your daily willpower - and the more likely you are to overeat. Put an end to the on-the-spot picks and plan your meals a day (or even two!) in advance. And always shop with a grocery list - this simple strategy will help limit the number of times you need to tap into your willpower.
Get Enough Shut-Eye
Lack of sleep - whether it's due to interrupted sleep, a sleep disorder, or just being a night owl - is a willpower wrecker. Studies consistently show that slumber-deprived subjects, which is generally less than seven to eight hours a night for most adults, consume more calories, have increased cravings for junk food (like sweet, salty, or high-fat treats), and are more likely to be overweight or obese. When you disrupt your sleep, you disrupt your strength.
Satisfy Carb Cravings - Minus the Calories - With These Trader Joe's Cauliflower Products
You love cauliflower because it's low in carbs and calories and so versatile in creating healthy recipes like cauliflower rice and beans and cauliflower potato salad. To make eating this amazing white veggie even easier, head to Trader Joe's - they offer so many amazing products. Their latest? This Cauliflower Pizza Crust - just a heads-up that it's in such high demand that Trader Joe's is having a hard time keeping it stocked! But try these other amazing products that are sure to satisfy your cauliflower obsession.
Charlie Hunnam Reveals Why He Tied the Knot at Age 18
You may know all about Charlie Hunnam's longtime girlfriend, Morgana McNelis, but did you know that he was actually married back in the early 2000s? The British actor recently opened up to the Associated Press about tying the knot with actress Katharine Towne when he was 18 years old, revealing that the pair met during a Dawson's Creek audition and eloped to Vegas three weeks later. "It was the first time I'd ever been in love," he said, adding that he had to return to England and they were worried about losing touch. He explained, "In our 18-year-old minds, we thought, 'What if we never see each other again? Let's get married, and then we'll have to see each other again, even if it's just to get divorced.'"
The couple was married from 1999 to 2002 in what Charlie called "three terrible, painful, expensive years," but in a "small victory," he did get the cats after their breakup. Fun fact: you can actually see them acting together in a 2001 episode of Undeclared. Now Charlie is happily attached to his girlfriend of 12 years, Morgana, gushing over her in interviews and opening up about his desire to have kids someday. When we chatted with Charlie about his new movie, The Lost City of Z, he talked about what it was like to get into character by cutting off communication with Morgana for four months, saying, "I would just fantasize about being home, cuddled up in bed with my girlfriend and my cat." Too cute.
Hoda and Kathie Lee Drinking Wine on Stage at the CMTs Will Make You Say "Me"
Even if you don't watch Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford's hour of the Today show, there's still a good chance you've heard about the duo's love of wine. No matter how early it is, they're always willing to throw one (or two or three) back on TV. They brought their passion to the CMT Awards on Wednesday night while presenting an award and couldn't have looked happier with their liquid accessories. While giggling with each other on stage and posing for photos with Jason Derulo and Luke Bryan, the wine glasses didn't leave their hands (and we don't blame them!).
Love Coffee but Have Anxiety? Here's How to Drink Up, Sans Panic Attacks
Have anxiety but coffee is your everything? We get it. But if you've ever had a caffeine-induced panic attack, you know the uncomfortable, emotionally distressful, sometimes even painful and frightening sensations that can happen - so how do you find a happy medium? We chatted with some doctors to find out if there were tips and tricks for mitigating the effects of caffeine so you can drink your daily Joe without inducing a panic attack (or even just anxious, jittery feelings). As it turns out, there are! Here are five tactics (they're SO simple) to keep your body and brain happy while getting a nice lift from your morning brew.
- Keep it to one cup a day: All of the doctors we spoke with OK'ed one cup of coffee each day. Moderation can prevent a caffeine-induced panic attack and also will keep your dependence on caffeine low, as it can be incredibly addictive, according to Dr. Mirwat Sami. "With more than two cups of coffee, a person could feel palpitations, heart racing, and irritability," he said.
- Drink it hot: Warm drinks can have a soothing effect, thus mitigating anxious effects. "Drinking hot liquid helps with calming your nervous system," psychotherapist and anxiety expert Jodi Aman told POPSUGAR.
- Drink it early: Dr. Sami said that drinking coffee early in the day can limit its side effects, so keep it early and don't reach for the pot to get through a 3 p.m. slump.
- Water-back it: Water can help dilute the caffeine, so drink a glass of water before and after your coffee to curb the feelings of anxiety. Dehydration can also cause anxiety, and coffee is a diuretic, so make sure you stay hydrated (we got this tip from naturopathic Dr. Gabrielle Francis, author of The Rockstar Remedy).
- Supplement it: Caffeine depletes the body's magnesium, according to Dr. Carolyn Dean, MD, ND. "Serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical, depends on magnesium for its production and function; magnesium is known as the anti-stress, anti-anxiety mineral for this reason," she said. Take a magnesium supplement (or eat a banana or some dark chocolate!) or grab a stress- and depression-fighting supplement like L-Theanine or a vitamin B complex.
The Ancient Ceremony That Will Wipe All Your Stress Away
If you know me, you know I read online reviews of just about everything. Want me to try your favorite new restaurant? I quickly consult with Yelp and then debate whether the reviews warrant a reservation. Discovered a new face cream that's given you baby-soft skin? Before paying a visit to my local Sephora, I make sure beauty YouTubers also consider it a "holy grail" product.
So, naturally, I followed the same approach when I was invited to participate in the temazcal ceremony, an ancient Mayan ritual, during a recent trip to Cabo, Mexico. I had an afternoon appointment with Anna María Quintero Palacios, a temazcal healer, at the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa. Since reviewers mention that the temazcal experience is unbelievably hot, I figured there was no better way to prepare than to jump into the spa's steam room. There, I chatted with a guest about traveling and the importance of embracing new experiences because, as you know, life is way too short. That brief chat put me in the right frame of mind for the temazcal session.
It was finally time to meet Anna, who has been conducting temazcal rituals for nine years. I walked up a long, narrow pathway to the site. With an open mind (and sporting one of my favorite swimsuits), I crawled into a small, igloo-like stone structure with one other guest. It was such a tight space with no room to stand, but Anna was so welcoming that my typical claustrophobic nature didn't rear its ugly head.
Anna began the session by sharing the temazcal's benefits: to improve circulation, purify the respiratory system, energize muscles, clear your skin, refresh your mind, and uplift your spirit. You get the picture. According to Anna, the ceremony signifies rebirth. "The temazcal has such fame because it represents the womb of Mother Earth, giving a new opportunity to be reborn," she said. "Sign me up," I thought. Who wouldn't want that?
Anna continued by touching on its benefits for pregnant women. I couldn't help but to reflect on my own pregnancy experience, which included way too many uncomfortable days. Wish I had booked this Cabo trip back then.
Anna's assistant then began throwing granite stones into the pit located at the center of the space. The intensity of the heat increased with every stone he dropped. Water was then poured over the stones to create steam. There was a bucket of tea as well as herbs by my mat.
Once the pit was filled with the hot rocks, the man closed the chamber's curtain for Anna to officially begin the ceremony. It was pretty dark, which added to the experience. Anna asked that I lay flat on the mat with my eyes closed. She promptly began bathing me with water and the fresh bunch of herbs, including peppermint, chamomile, rosemary, and basil. Every so often, I could hear Anna pouring more water over the hot rocks. Of course, the sizzling sound made me jump each time. I was certain that an ash or two would hit me, but thankfully, that wasn't the case.
The room smelled divine - so good that I plotted how I could re-create this herbal bath at home. A few times during the treatment, Anna pressed a cloth drenched in cold water onto my forehead and rubbed it behind my neck. It was a bit too cold for my liking, but somehow it still managed to feel good. The discomfort quickly transformed into relaxation. Anna continued bathing me with the herbs, and as the ceremony came to a close, she began singing "Canto a los Elementos en Temazcal."
The song is an expression of gratitude for the temazcal ceremony's benefits and four elements: earth, water, wind, and fire. The lyrics are:
Tierra mi cuerpo (Earth my body),
agua mi sangre (water my blood),
viento mi aliento (air my breath),
fuego mi espíritu (fire my spirit)
There couldn't have been a better way to end the temazcal experience. I didn't want it to be over. After the temazcal ceremony, I felt completely relaxed. It felt like my body had been reset somehow. I, surprisingly, had a clear mind and was in such good spirits. You know the feeling of being on vacation somewhere far away from home without life's daily stresses? Do you remember the last time you enjoyed a massage and how your body felt immediately following the session? That's the best way to describe the level of calm that came over me. It was an interesting kind of bliss.
From the aromatic herbs to the closing song that made the experience feel that much more authentic, I'd highly recommend the temazcal ceremony if Cabo is ever on your agenda. Your body will thank you!
The Chainsmokers and Florida Georgia Line's CMT Performance Is So Random, But So Catchy
Mixing Florida Georgia Line and The Chainsmokers wouldn't necessarily be the first musical combination that would come to our minds, but both groups proved how catchy their collaboration actually is at the CMT Awards on Wednesday night. They joined each other on the outdoor stage and belted out their made-for-Summer hit, "Last Day Alive," which was an energizing change of pace from Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban's beautiful acoustic set. Pour yourself a nice, big glass of wine, and check it out above.
15 Beauty Products You Should Pack For Bonnaroo
When I go camping, I don't wear makeup, but when camping at a music festival, the no-makeup rule goes out the window. Two years ago, I attended Bonnaroo for the first time and basically fell in love with the four-day music festival in Tennessee. Unlike Coachella, where some festivalgoers camp but most stay in nearby hotels, Bonnaroo boasts 85,000 campers spread over 700 acres.
Even though we're sleeping in tents beside our cars, showering futilely, and hiking miles in sweltering heat, Bonnaroo fans still want to look festival-level cute. For me, that means casual, minimal clothes (tank tops, cutoffs, hats, and bandanas soaked in ice water) but lots of beauty products. From an arsenal of sunscreen to fun lip color, here are 15 beauty essentials you should pack for Bonnaroo (or any other music festival where you're living out of a tent).
A New "Interview" Claims Ivanka Trump Took a Stand Against Her Dad - Except She Didn't
The latest issue of US Weekly boldly imagined a world where Ivanka Trump does not agree with her father's political decisions and defiantly resists them. The only problem? It's all unconfirmed.
On June 7, the tabloid magazine released their latest cover featuring a close-up shot of the assistant to the president. The headline states, "Ivanka Takes a Stand: Why I Disagree With My Dad." Though the headline is in first person, US Weekly did not interview Trump at all for the story. Instead, the magazine simply pulled quotes from an undisclosed source and other interviews in Harper's Bazaar and The New York Times.
According to US Weekly's unnamed source, Trump frequently argues with the president. "She has battled the 70-year-old about everything from LGBT rights to the North American Free Trade Agreement." The interview then alleges that she was particularly upset by his recent decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. "A source close to Ivanka says she was disappointed by his decision, but she's learned to take such defeats in stride."
Following the reveal of the story, Twitter nearly erupted with laughter. Many people expressed a belief that the pseudo-interview was a calculated move to improve her image.
Why My Brand Disagrees With My Dad's Brand https://t.co/1fTCt5egAu
- James Poniewozik (@poniewozik) June 7, 2017
US Weekly wants us to believe that Ivanka isn't like her dad.
The majority of Americans react: http://pic.twitter.com/QD4KKFjfI1- Doctor #Covfefe (@ShomahKhoobi) June 7, 2017
To be clear: Ivanka isn't participating in this (even though the cover uses the first person). But Us has stake in her continued celebrity
- Anne Helen Petersen (@annehelen) June 7, 2017
Others online reveled in the ridiculousness of the phrase "Why I Disagree With My Dad," and used it to launch a new onslaught of entertaining memes that will keep everyone laughing until the next one emerges.
Why I Disagree With My Dad was the subject line of the email I wrote my mom about why my parents should unground me in 9th grade
- Charlotte Wilder (@TheWilderThings) June 7, 2017
WHY I DISAGREE WITH MY DAD http://pic.twitter.com/XWsCpCB0Re
- Lauren Duca (@laurenduca) June 7, 2017
WHY I DISAGREE WITH MY DAD http://pic.twitter.com/XedA1A9bav
- Morgan Evans (@totallymorgan) June 7, 2017
"Why I Disagree With My Dad" http://pic.twitter.com/39C0h5uvdX
- Sarah Lerner (@SarahLerner) June 7, 2017
Charlie Hunnam Reveals Why He Tied the Knot at Age 18
You may know all about Charlie Hunnam's longtime girlfriend, Morgana McNelis, but did you know that he was actually married back in the early 2000s? The British actor recently opened up to the Associated Press about tying the knot with actress Katharine Towne when he was 18 years old, revealing that the pair met during a Dawson's Creek audition and eloped to Vegas three weeks later. "It was the first time I'd ever been in love," he said, adding that he had to return to England and they were worried about losing touch. He explained, "In our 18-year-old minds, we thought, 'What if we never see each other again? Let's get married, and then we'll have to see each other again, even if it's just to get divorced.'"
The couple was married from 1999 to 2002 in what Charlie called "three terrible, painful, expensive years," but in a "small victory," he did get the cats after their breakup. Fun fact: you can actually see them acting together in a 2001 episode of Undeclared. Now Charlie is happily attached to his girlfriend of 12 years, Morgana, gushing over her in interviews and opening up about his desire to have kids someday. When we chatted with Charlie about his new movie, The Lost City of Z, he talked about what it was like to get into character by cutting off communication with Morgana for four months, saying, "I would just fantasize about being home, cuddled up in bed with my girlfriend and my cat." Too cute.
15 Beauty Products You Should Pack For Bonnaroo
When I go camping, I don't wear makeup, but when camping at a music festival, the no-makeup rule goes out the window. Two years ago, I attended Bonnaroo for the first time and basically fell in love with the four-day music festival in Tennessee. Unlike Coachella, where some festivalgoers camp but most stay in nearby hotels, Bonnaroo boasts 85,000 campers spread over 700 acres.
Even though we're sleeping in tents beside our cars, showering futilely, and hiking miles in sweltering heat, Bonnaroo fans still want to look festival-level cute. For me, that means casual, minimal clothes (tank tops, cutoffs, hats, and bandanas soaked in ice water) but lots of beauty products. From an arsenal of sunscreen to fun lip color, here are 15 beauty essentials you should pack for Bonnaroo (or any other music festival where you're living out of a tent).
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.
Recall Alert! Frozen Tuna Tested Positive For Hepatitis A
On June 1, the Food and Drug Administration released a statement about its ongoing investigation into potentially contaminated frozen tuna distributed by Hilo Fish. According to the report, the Hawaii Department of Health first discovered the contagious hepatitis A virus in samples of frozen tuna on May 1. Shortly after, on May 18, Hilo Fish Company launched an official recall of tuna from Sustainable Seafood Company and Santa Cruz Seafood, Inc.
So far, there haven't been any illnesses reported in conjunction with the potential frozen tuna contamination, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is advising anyone from Texas, Oklahoma, and California who hasn't been vaccinated for the hepatitis A virus and ate raw or under-cooked tuna products in the past two weeks to get treated with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
Keep reading to see a list of all of the frozen tuna products that have been recalled so far, and make sure to toss out anything that may be affected!
- Frozen Yellowfin tuna steaks from Sustainable Seafood Company
- Yellowfin tuna cubes from Santa Cruz Seafood
- 8 ounce Tuna Steaks from Hilo Fish Company with an expiration date of Oct. 1, 2018
- 15 pound Frozen Yellowfin tuna cubes with an expiration date of April 4, 2019
For extra precaution, the FDA has also provided a list of restaurants and other retail establishments that received the recalled frozen tuna. Better safe than sorry!
Love Coffee but Have Anxiety? Here's How to Drink Up, Sans Panic Attacks
Have anxiety but coffee is your everything? We get it. But if you've ever had a caffeine-induced panic attack, you know the uncomfortable, emotionally distressful, sometimes even painful and frightening sensations that can happen - so how do you find a happy medium? We chatted with some doctors to find out if there were tips and tricks for mitigating the effects of caffeine so you can drink your daily Joe without inducing a panic attack (or even just anxious, jittery feelings). As it turns out, there are! Here are five tactics (they're SO simple) to keep your body and brain happy while getting a nice lift from your morning brew.
- Keep it to one cup a day: All of the doctors we spoke with OK'ed one cup of coffee each day. Moderation can prevent a caffeine-induced panic attack and also will keep your dependence on caffeine low, as it can be incredibly addictive, according to Dr. Mirwat Sami. "With more than two cups of coffee, a person could feel palpitations, heart racing, and irritability," he said.
- Drink it hot: Warm drinks can have a soothing effect, thus mitigating anxious effects. "Drinking hot liquid helps with calming your nervous system," psychotherapist and anxiety expert Jodi Aman told POPSUGAR.
- Drink it early: Dr. Sami said that drinking coffee early in the day can limit its side effects, so keep it early and don't reach for the pot to get through a 3 p.m. slump.
- Water-back it: Water can help dilute the caffeine, so drink a glass of water before and after your coffee to curb the feelings of anxiety. Dehydration can also cause anxiety, and coffee is a diuretic, so make sure you stay hydrated (we got this tip from naturopathic Dr. Gabrielle Francis, author of The Rockstar Remedy).
- Supplement it: Caffeine depletes the body's magnesium, according to Dr. Carolyn Dean, MD, ND. "Serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical, depends on magnesium for its production and function; magnesium is known as the anti-stress, anti-anxiety mineral for this reason," she said. Take a magnesium supplement (or eat a banana or some dark chocolate!) or grab a stress- and depression-fighting supplement like L-Theanine or a vitamin B complex.
Hoda and Kathie Lee Drinking Wine on Stage at the CMTs Will Make You Say "Me"
Even if you don't watch Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford's hour of the Today show, there's still a good chance you've heard about the duo's love of wine. No matter how early it is, they're always willing to throw one (or two or three) back on TV. They brought their passion to the CMT Awards on Wednesday night while presenting an award and couldn't have looked happier with their liquid accessories. While giggling with each other on stage and posing for photos with Jason Derulo and Luke Bryan, the wine glasses didn't leave their hands (and we don't blame them!).
You'll Want to Walk Down the Aisle to This Version of Carrie and Keith's "The Fighter"
Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban did not come to play at the CMT Awards in Nashville on Wednesday. After hitting the red carpet with wife Nicole Kidman, Keith took the stage with Carrie for a beautiful performance of their duet, "The Fighter." While we love the original version of the song, this raw, stripped-down version is definitely something we can see ourselves walking down the aisle to at our weddings.
You'll Want to Walk Down the Aisle to This Version of Carrie and Keith's "The Fighter"
Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban did not come to play at the CMT Awards in Nashville on Wednesday. After hitting the red carpet with wife Nicole Kidman, Keith took the stage with Carrie for a beautiful performance of their duet, "The Fighter." While we love the original version of the song, this raw, stripped-down version is definitely something we can see ourselves walking down the aisle to at our weddings.
The Ancient Ceremony That Will Wipe All Your Stress Away
If you know me, you know I read online reviews of just about everything. Want me to try your favorite new restaurant? I quickly consult with Yelp and then debate whether the reviews warrant a reservation. Discovered a new face cream that's given you baby-soft skin? Before paying a visit to my local Sephora, I make sure beauty YouTubers also consider it a "holy grail" product.
So naturally I followed the same approach when I was invited to participate in the temazcal ceremony, an ancient Mayan ritual, during a recent trip to Cabo, Mexico. I had an afternoon appointment with Anna María Quintero Palacios, a temazcal healer, at the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa. Since reviewers mention that the temazcal experience is unbelievably hot, I figured there was no better way to prepare than to jump into the spa's steam room. There, I chatted with a guest about traveling and the importance of embracing new experiences because, as you know, life is way too short. That brief chat put me in the right frame of mind for the temazcal session.
It was finally time to meet Anna, who has been conducting temazcal rituals for nine years. I walked up a long, narrow pathway to the site. With an open mind (and sporting one of my favorite swimsuits), I crawled into a small, igloo-like stone structure with one other guest. It was such a tight space with no room to stand, but Anna was so welcoming that my typical claustrophobic nature didn't rear its ugly head.
Anna began the session by sharing the temazcal's benefits: to improve circulation, purify the respiratory system, energize muscles, clear your skin, refresh your mind, and uplift your spirit. You get the picture. According to Anna, the ceremony signifies rebirth. "The temazcal has such fame because it represents the womb of Mother Earth, giving a new opportunity to be reborn," she said. "Sign me up," I thought. Who wouldn't want that?
Anna continued by touching on its benefits for pregnant women. I couldn't help but to reflect on my own pregnancy experience, which included way too many uncomfortable days. Wish I had booked this Cabo trip back then.
Anna's assistant then began throwing granite stones into the pit located at the center of the space. The intensity of the heat increased with every stone he dropped. Water was then poured over the stones to create steam. There was a bucket of tea as well as herbs by my mat.
Once the pit was filled with the hot rocks, the man closed the chamber's curtain for Anna to officially begin the ceremony. It was pretty dark, which added to the experience. Anna asked that I lay flat on the mat with my eyes closed. She promptly began bathing me with water and the fresh bunch of herbs, including peppermint, chamomile, rosemary, and basil. Every so often, I could hear Anna pouring more water over the hot rocks. Of course, the sizzling sound made me jump each time. I was certain that an ash or two would hit me, but thankfully, that wasn't the case.
The room smelled divine - so good that I plotted how I could re-create this herbal bath at home. A few times during the treatment, Anna pressed a cloth drenched in cold water onto my forehead and rubbed it behind my neck. It was a bit too cold for my liking, but somehow it still managed to feel good. The discomfort quickly transformed into relaxation. Anna continued bathing me with the herbs, and as the ceremony came to a close, she began singing "Canto a los Elementos en Temazcal."
The song is an expression of gratitude for the temazcal ceremony's benefits and four elements: earth, water, wind, and fire. The lyrics are:
Tierra mi cuerpo (Earth my body),
agua mi sangre (water my blood),
viento mi aliento (air my breath),
fuego mi espíritu (fire my spirit)
There couldn't have been a better way to end the temazcal experience. I didn't want it to be over. After the temazcal ceremony, I felt completely relaxed. It felt like my body had been reset somehow. I, surprisingly, had a clear mind and was in such good spirits. You know the feeling of being on vacation somewhere far away from home without life's daily stresses? Do you remember the last time you enjoyed a massage and how your body felt immediately following the session? That's the best way to describe the level of calm that came over me. It was an interesting kind of bliss.
From the aromatic herbs to the closing song that made the experience feel that much more authentic, I'd highly recommend the temazcal ceremony if Cabo is ever on your agenda. Your body will thank you!
Cue the Nostalgia! Mae Whitman Congratulates George Clooney on Welcoming Twins
Fans of the '90s romantic comedy One Fine Day will definitely appreciate the sweet shout-out actress Mae Whitman gave to George Clooney this week. Back in 1996, Clooney melted hearts when he played Mae's charming dad in the movie, which also starred Michelle Pfeiffer. (Note: If you haven't seen this movie, you should, because it's a gem.) This week, following news that he and Amal welcomed twins on Tuesday, Mae took to Twitter to share her best wishes. Alongside an adorable picture, she wrote, "Hey congrats george on our new additions to the family love your OG babykid."
hey congrats george on our new additions to the family love your OG babykid http://pic.twitter.com/0XSUa1SiLW
- mae whitman (@maebirdwing) June 7, 2017
Be still our nostalgic hearts.
Usher Teaches His Adorable Son a Little Thing or 2 About Red Carpet Swagger
Usher attended the Gordon Parks Foundation Awards Gala in NYC on Tuesday night, but it was his son Usher V (aka Cinco) who stole the spotlight. After the singer skipped the One Love Manchester concert to take his 9-year-old to Camp Kudzu (a summer camp for kids living with diabetes), the father-son duo put on their best smiles as they walked the red carpet. While Usher donned black pants and a flashy green shirt, his son looked sharp in a powder-blue tux. The father of two even gave his son a quick lesson in swagger by letting him borrow his shades and showing him how to pose for the cameras. Of course, the sweetest moment had to be when Usher stepped back and admired his little guy from afar. So sweet!
5 Mistakes That Are Keeping You From a Half-Marathon PR
There's nothing worse than spending months preparing for a half-marathon and hoping for a personal record (PR) only to fall flat on race-day and miss your goal. Watching the minutes tick by on your watch as the finish line begins to feel further and further away can kill any runner's high, leaving you defeated as you accept your finisher's medal.
With a little advanced planning, though, you can easily prevent these mistakes that can keep you from achieving that PR!
Straying from your plan.
Running 13.1 miles requires a certain level of mental planning, as well as physical training. Whether it's a run-walk ratio or a pace-per-mile you hope to hit, stick to it when the race begins. It's common to start off too fast or skip that first walk interval because you've tapered and the adrenaline is working, but you'll pay for it in the last three miles when you haven't given your body and mind what they've been trained to expect. If you've trained with a plan, stick to it no matter how tempting it is to stray!
Not taking prerace nutrition seriously enough.
The night before every single long run should be a race-day experiment to determine what race-eve dinner works best for your stomach and your energy level. Whether it's plain pasta or whole-wheat bread, when you find the magic food and the magic serving size, stick with it no matter what. If your race is close to home, this is easy. It's far more challenging, though, when you're traveling for a race. Don't get lazy and rely on fast food carbs the night before you hope to PR a half-marathon. A little advanced planning, a cooler, and a little meal prep allows you to take the trusted prerace dinner with you on the road and will save you from hitting the wall when the junk food is burned off.
Inadequate sleep.
Prerace jitters may keep you from getting the solid eight hours you need before race-day, so incorporating a strict bedtime and healthy sleep schedule in the week before the race will ensure that your body has enough sleep to push through a long race. If you're forced to sleep at a friend's house or a hotel the night before your race, plan ahead and take with you whatever will make you more comfortable. If you need ear plugs or an eye mask or even just a favorite pillow, be sure to take everything you need for a great sleep the night before the race.
No speedwork.
Setting a pace is challenging in a 13.1-mile race, but if all you've ever done are long, slow runs prior to race-day, your body doesn't know how to challenge itself when you get tired. Incorporating tempo runs or fartlek workouts teach your legs to turn over more quickly and prepare your mind for the challenge of being uncomfortable during the race. The more uncomfortable you make yourself during shorter training runs, the more adept your body and mind will be at meeting the challenge of running at your goal race for two-plus hours.
Insufficient long runs in the weeks leading up to the race.
It's not uncommon for half-marathon training plans to peak with the 10-mile long run the week before the race. If your goal is just to cross the finish line, that's likely enough to get you there. If after your first race, though, you set your sights on achieving a PR, extending the long runs to 11 or even 12 miles in the weeks prior to your race will train your legs and mind to run through the pain and exhaustion that you'll feel on race-day, eliminating the need to walk during the final miles.
The Best F*cking Guided Meditation You've Ever Heard
For those constantly looking for the antidote for life's daily stresses and worries, meditation can have an enormous impact on the way you view the world - and it's not just hippie bullsh*t. Study after study has shown a correlation between meditation and reduction of gray matter in the amygdala, the brain region connected to anxiety and emotional regulation. It's been proven to lengthen your attention span, lessen stress levels, and decrease insomnia by 42 percent. And with just two months of a consistent practice, meditation literally changes your brain chemistry, making you more resilient when difficult situations arise.
With all that said, it can be really f*cking hard to sit still for 10 minutes, and that's where this hilarious and surprisingly calming meditation video from Jason Headley comes in handy. If guided meditations have been too strange, far-out, or boring for you in the past, prepare to breathe in the good sh*t and exhale the bad sh*t with this hysterical NSFW-language-filled video.
5 Mistakes That Are Keeping You From a Half-Marathon PR
There's nothing worse than spending months preparing for a half-marathon and hoping for a personal record (PR) only to fall flat on race-day and miss your goal. Watching the minutes tick by on your watch as the finish line begins to feel further and further away can kill any runner's high, leaving you defeated as you accept your finisher's medal.
With a little advanced planning, though, you can easily prevent these mistakes that can keep you from achieving that PR!
Straying from your plan.
Running 13.1 miles requires a certain level of mental planning, as well as physical training. Whether it's a run-walk ratio or a pace-per-mile you hope to hit, stick to it when the race begins. It's common to start off too fast or skip that first walk interval because you've tapered and the adrenaline is working, but you'll pay for it in the last three miles when you haven't given your body and mind what they've been trained to expect. If you've trained with a plan, stick to it no matter how tempting it is to stray!
Not taking prerace nutrition seriously enough.
The night before every single long run should be a race-day experiment to determine what race-eve dinner works best for your stomach and your energy level. Whether it's plain pasta or whole-wheat bread, when you find the magic food and the magic serving size, stick with it no matter what. If your race is close to home, this is easy. It's far more challenging, though, when you're traveling for a race. Don't get lazy and rely on fast food carbs the night before you hope to PR a half-marathon. A little advanced planning, a cooler, and a little meal prep allows you to take the trusted prerace dinner with you on the road and will save you from hitting the wall when the junk food is burned off.
Inadequate sleep.
Prerace jitters may keep you from getting the solid eight hours you need before race-day, so incorporating a strict bedtime and healthy sleep schedule in the week before the race will ensure that your body has enough sleep to push through a long race. If you're forced to sleep at a friend's house or a hotel the night before your race, plan ahead and take with you whatever will make you more comfortable. If you need ear plugs or an eye mask or even just a favorite pillow, be sure to take everything you need for a great sleep the night before the race.
No speedwork.
Setting a pace is challenging in a 13.1-mile race, but if all you've ever done are long, slow runs prior to race-day, your body doesn't know how to challenge itself when you get tired. Incorporating tempo runs or fartlek workouts teach your legs to turn over more quickly and prepare your mind for the challenge of being uncomfortable during the race. The more uncomfortable you make yourself during shorter training runs, the more adept your body and mind will be at meeting the challenge of running at your goal race for two-plus hours.
Insufficient long runs in the weeks leading up to the race.
It's not uncommon for half-marathon training plans to peak with the 10-mile long run the week before the race. If your goal is just to cross the finish line, that's likely enough to get you there. If after your first race, though, you set your sights on achieving a PR, extending the long runs to 11 or even 12 miles in the weeks prior to your race will train your legs and mind to run through the pain and exhaustion that you'll feel on race-day, eliminating the need to walk during the final miles.
Rihanna Shouldn't Have to Bother With Body Shamers
"If you can't handle me at my 2007 Gucci Mane, then you don't deserve my 2017 Gucci Mane," Rihanna said.
8 Women Who Bagged Ryan Reynolds Before Blake Lively
For some, it's hard to remember a time when Ryan Reynolds wasn't married to (and shutting down the red carpet with) Blake Lively. But before he and the former Gossip Girl star tied the knot on a South Carolina plantation, Ryan actually had a pretty colorful dating history. From costars to '90s It girls, look through to see the women he's romanced over the years.
Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman Look Like 2 Kids in Love at the CMT Awards
Keith Urban's big night at the CMT Awards on Wednesday night doubled as a romantic date night with wife Nicole Kidman. The couple looked like two kids in love as they hit the red carpet, giggling and whispering in each other's ears. Keith is slated to hit the stage later tonight with Carrie Underwood and they will likely sing their duet "Fighter." Keith is also nominated for four awards tonight, including video of the year.
Travel to Europe This Summer With 1 Pair of Shoes - We Dare You
It might sound crazy, but you can travel this Summer with just one pair of shoes. If you only fly with carry-on luggage, it's no secret that trying to get an extra pair of shoes to fit into your small suitcase is challenging. Luckily, sneakers are so in style right now they can go with your entire wardrobe. Whether you are planning for a trip to Europe or just going out of town for the weekend, invest in a versatile pair of shoes.
12 Good Travel Habits You Should Develop ASAP
You live and you learn - and same goes for travel. The more you do it, the more you realize mistakes you've been making and ways to make travel much easier the next time you do it. In order to save yourself money, stress, and more, develop these 12 travel habits to use for your future trips. You'll wonder how you ever traveled without practicing these routines before and during your adventures.
Travel to Europe This Summer With 1 Pair of Shoes - We Dare You
It might sound crazy, but you can travel this Summer with just one pair of shoes. If you only fly with carry-on luggage, it's no secret that trying to get an extra pair of shoes to fit into your small suitcase is challenging. Luckily, sneakers are so in style right now they can go with your entire wardrobe. Whether you are planning for a trip to Europe or just going out of town for the weekend, invest in a versatile pair of shoes.
Rihanna Shouldn't Have to Bother With Body Shamers
"If you can't handle me at my 2007 Gucci Mane, then you don't deserve my 2017 Gucci Mane," Rihanna said.
I Found the Love of My Life - and I've Never Taken It For Granted
Image Source: Getty / Jason Merritt
Early in my sobriety I decided to go to Greece for potential modeling work. Don't get all excited. It's not like I was doing shoots for GQ. Instead I was modeling for the Sears catalog and did one Dentyne ad, which featured mostly my back and one-fourth of my face. When I got to Greece I was filled with the crazy sense of gratitude. I had always dreamed of going to Greece, but it never seemed like a possibility to me. It was way out of reach, but I thought I was newly sober and my world had been so small it was time to explore it.
It turns out that I wasn't the look that they were into that particular season so I didn't book any work. I had been in Athens for almost three weeks and I decided that maybe it was time to go home but not before I went to Mykonos. I had heard so much about it from friends so I was DYING to go. After an eight-hour ferry ride from Athens, I arrived and I felt like I had died and gone to heaven! The beaches, the white houses, the food, the dancing! I was having the time of my life.
Image Courtesy of Brad Goreski
On my last night there, a friend I had met while traveling stopped to talk to someone he had met on the beach. I stood waiting for him to finish when I heard, "Hi. Do you want to try some of my dessert?" It was Gary. I couldn't believe he was talking to me. He was so handsome, so tan, and super funny. He asked if we wanted to go the bar with them and I said yes of course. We ended up at Piero's. Drag queens, muscle boys, models, fashion designers (I met Alexander McQueen on the dance floor here) - it was a feast for the eyes. The evening turned into the morning and the morning into me extending my stay in Mykonos after Gary asked me to and we even tacked on a few days in Santorini. I honestly couldn't believe any of this was happening to me.
I went back to Athens to spend his last night in Greece with him and I was overwhelmed with emotions, to say the least. It had been a week unlike any I could've ever imagined and it was all coming to an end. It was a pretty magical time as no cell phones worked internationally so we were able to be present with one another and really enjoy the experience. I didn't really have any expectations. I thought if it was a Summer romance than I would have the amazing memories, but if it did turn into something more I would be ecstatic. We just fit so well together but there were so many roadblocks in our way. He lived in LA and I lived in Toronto, being the biggest one. He left and went back to LA and I stayed on in Athens. We talked every day on the phone and finally he said, "Come to LA and hang out. Let's see what this is." A day later I was on the plane to LA. Sometimes things just align perfectly and they work out. We have been together ever since. We still talk about how we met all these years later. In July we will celebrate 16 years together. It has been the best 16 years of my life.
Image Courtesy of Brad Goreski
Gary and I have been back to Greece many times since we met. It is a very special place to us. Almost three years ago, Gary and I were vacationing in Mykonos and he proposed to me while we were watching the sunset. I wasn't expecting it at all but it is a day I won't forget. We were both so excited to call our families and tell them. Both of our families love and support us.
I am so grateful that I have that luxury as I know not everybody does. We still have yet to set a date or a location or anything really but will soon. That Summer in Greece will always be one of the most special moments of my life. The moment I met Gary my life changed and it continues to get better and better with every passing year.
Brett Eldredge Is Country Music's Hottest Eligible Bachelor
Are you ready to meet your new country boyfriend? With his third studio album on the horizon, 31-year-old singer-songwriter Brett Eldredge is no newbie, but his star is rising, and fast. When we say he's "one to watch," we mean that quite literally. He's got the looks department down with those come-hither baby blues, a sculpted body (we don't hate his beach pics), a bit of scruff, and an easy smile, but scroll through his Instagram (or Twitter or Snapchat) and it's easy to see why he has such a loyal social following - it's the sweet photos with his mom; hilarious videos of his ridiculous shenanigans; adorable photos and videos of him cuddling his dog, Edgar; and home videos of him serenading the camera (aka "bedhead jams") that prove he's the total package.
I spoke with Brett about his new album, what he's looking for in a girlfriend, his complicated relationship with social media, and, of course, the love of his life - Edgar. Keep reading for the interview, and we dare you not to crush hard for this budding heartthrob.
James Corden Pays Tribute to His Hometown After the London Bridge Attack
James Corden is taking The Late Late Show to London this week, but before kicking things off, he took a moment to pay tribute to the lives lost during the London Bridge Terror Attack on Saturday. "I'm so sad when I think about all the times that I took this job that I had to open our show talking about such atrocities trying to find the right words to say is impossible because there are none," he said during his monologue on Tuesday. "Some people might say it's a strange time to do a variety show from this city - I couldn't disagree more." As he walked down the rainy sidewalk, he explained how proud he was to be able to show off his hometown's beauty, diversity, and it's stoic determination to not let anything stand in its way. "This is not a country that feels afraid," he added.
Selena Gomez's Dress Is Rock Party on 1 Side, Ethereal Angel on the Other
Selena Gomez's fashion game just keeps getting better and better. The singer is currently in New York City promoting her new single "Bad Liar," and her style has been a sight for sore eyes.
She recently wore four outfits in less than 24 hours. Stepping out in a structured wrap dress in the morning, a Christopher Kane tight maxi dress for lunch, a '90s-inspired slip dress look in the early afternoon, and this two-faced rocker look in the evening.
Thee 24-year-old's Shiana Mote dress had everyone doing a double take with its double personality, featuring a pinstriped black and white pattern on one side and a more ethereal cream skirt on the other. If you look closely, you'll also notice a twist detail at the waist that accentuates Selena's waist even more. She paired the $515 dress with a leather jacket and simple black sandals with clear heels. Keep scrolling to see her fabulous look and shop similar dresses.
8 Women Who Bagged Ryan Reynolds Before Blake Lively
For some, it's hard to remember a time when Ryan Reynolds wasn't married to (and shutting down the red carpet with) Blake Lively. But before he and the former Gossip Girl star tied the knot on a South Carolina plantation, Ryan actually had a pretty colorful dating history. From costars to '90s It girls, look through to see the women he's romanced over the years.
Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, and More Pay Tribute to Greg Allman With Soulful Performance
Many country fans were shocked by the news that Nashville-born music legend Greg Allman passed away in late May, since the rocker's lengthy career has been such a huge influence on many of today's biggest artists. Luckily the CMT Awards knew just how to honor Allman's legacy. At the award show on Wednesday night, Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, Derek Trucks, and Lady Antebellum's Charles Kelley performed a rocking, soulful rendition of the late musician's 1971 hit "Midnight Rider," and it'll be stuck in your head for days. Watch it above!
The Best F*cking Guided Meditation You've Ever Heard
For those constantly looking for the antidote for life's daily stresses and worries, meditation can have an enormous impact on the way you view the world - and it's not just hippie bullsh*t. Study after study has shown a correlation between meditation and reduction of gray matter in the amygdala, the brain region connected to anxiety and emotional regulation. It's been proven to lengthen your attention span, lessen stress levels, and decrease insomnia by 42 percent. And with just two months of a consistent practice, meditation literally changes your brain chemistry, making you more resilient when difficult situations arise.
With all that said, it can be really f*cking hard to sit still for 10 minutes, and that's where this hilarious and surprisingly calming meditation video from Jason Headley comes in handy. If guided meditations have been too strange, far-out, or boring for you in the past, prepare to breathe in the good sh*t and exhale the bad sh*t with this hysterical NSFW-language-filled video.
Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, and More Pay Tribute to Gregg Allman With Soulful Performance
Many country fans were shocked by the news that Nashville-born music legend Gregg Allman passed away in late May, since the rocker's lengthy career has been such a huge influence on many of today's biggest artists. Luckily the CMT Awards knew just how to honor Allman's legacy. At the award show on Wednesday night, Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, Derek Trucks, and Lady Antebellum's Charles Kelley performed a rocking, soulful rendition of the late musician's 1971 hit "Midnight Rider," and it'll be stuck in your head for days. Watch it above!
The Trailer For Disney and Pixar's Day of the Dead Movie Is Finally Here
After you see the official trailer for Disney and Pixar's Day of the Dead movie, Coco, you'll want a time machine to fast forward to Nov. 22, 2017. The one-and-half-minute clip for the much-anticipated animated movie - it's been in the works since 2015! - shows the journey the main character, a Mexican boy named Miguel, takes to the Land of the Dead, where family and friends - including his dog, Dante, and a skeleton voiced by Gael García Bernal, named Hector - help him discover the true story behind his heritage. Watch the trailer above, then read about the all-Latino cast that'll be voicing the movie's main characters.
The Trailer For Disney and Pixar's Day of the Dead Movie Is Finally Here
After you see the official trailer for Disney and Pixar's Day of the Dead movie, Coco, you'll want a time machine to fast forward to Nov. 22, 2017. The one-and-half-minute clip for the much-anticipated animated movie - it's been in the works since 2015! - shows the journey the main character, a Mexican boy named Miguel, takes to the Land of the Dead, where family and friends - including his dog, Dante, and a skeleton voiced by Gael García Bernal, named Hector - help him discover the true story behind his heritage. Watch the trailer above, then read about the all-Latino cast that'll be voicing the movie's main characters.
This Gorgeous Beach in the Bahamas Is the Pink Paradise of Our Dreams
In case you needed one more reason to book a trip to the Bahamas, we've got you. Pink Sands Beach on Harbor Island is not only the most Instagrammable paradise because of its unique hue, but it's also ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its clear waters typically maintain a warm temperature year-round and the coral reef keeps waves totally calm.
Visitors can expect three miles of pink sand, which gets its pale shade from tiny microscopic shelled organisms called foraminifera. We do have to warn you though that in person, the sand's color is much more subtle than what you'll see exaggerated with filters on social media. Nonetheless, a beach with pink sand - no matter how light - is still pretty damn cool.
See the pretty photos!
Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman Look Like 2 Kids in Love at the CMT Awards
Keith Urban's big night at the CMT Awards on Wednesday night doubled as a romantic date night with wife Nicole Kidman. The couple looked like two kids in love as they hit the red carpet, giggling and whispering in each other's ears. Keith is slated to hit the stage later tonight with Carrie Underwood and they will likely sing their duet "Fighter." Keith is also nominated for four awards tonight, including video of the year.
The Latest Social Media Challenge Is a Game Everyone Played as a Kid
Every few months, the internet graces us with a funny and ridiculous challenge. Last year, we had the Running Man and Mannequin challenges. So far this year, we've seen the Get Out and How Bow Dah challenges. Now, prepare to be part of the Floor Is Lava Challenge, a game straight out of your childhood.
The Floor Is Lava Challenge is easy: tell someone the "floor is lava" and that person has five seconds to find higher ground. It's a game you probably played as a kid, except now you can join everyone else on the internet and do it. According to Mic, the challenge took off when Instagram user kevinfreshwater posted a video compilation of him and his friend Jahannah James doing it. Look for examples ahead of what exactly the Floor Is Lava Challenge is, and then go try it yourself.
Your Country Girl Power Playlist
Looking for some female empowerment? You've come to the right honky-tonk. These country songs are for women, by women, and they pack a major girl-power punch. You've heard the saying "don't mess with Texas." Well, don't mess with these female singers. There are feisty, even controversial, songs by such country queens as Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, hot new songs from tough cookies like Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood, and plenty of positive, pro-women anthems by stars from Martina McBride to Reba McEntire. Listen to our Spotify playlist below to get in touch with your inner badass cowgirl!
- "Hell on Heels," Pistol Annies
- "Somethin' Bad," Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood
- "Dumb Blonde," Dolly Parton
- "This One's For the Girls," Martina McBride
- "Tough," Kellie Pickler
- "A Little Bit Stronger," Sara Evans
- "Harper Valley PTA," Jeannie C. Riley
- "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" Shania Twain
- "Follow Your Arrow," Kacey Musgraves
- "Redneck Woman," Gretchen Wilson
- "XXXs and OOOs (An American Girl)," Trisha Yearwood
- "Country Strong," Gwyneth Paltrow
- "Just Because I'm a Woman," Dolly Parton
- "Platinum," Miranda Lambert
- "Ready to Run," Dixie Chicks
- "One Way Ticket (Because I Can)," LeAnn Rimes
- "Wasting All These Tears," Cassadee Pope
- "Wild One," Faith Hill
- "All the Women I Am," Reba McEntire
- "Good Girl," Carrie Underwood
- "Girls Lie Too," Terri Clark
- "The Pill," Loretta Lynn
- "Georgia Peaches," Lauren Alaina
- "Any Man of Mine," Shania Twain
- "Gunpowder & Lead," Miranda Lambert
- "Red High Heels," Kellie Pickler
- "Bye-Bye," Jo Dee Messina
- "I'm a Survivor," Reba McEntire
- "When God-Fearin' Women Get the Blues," Martina McBride
- "Born to Fly," Sara Evans
- "Somebody's Hero," Jamie O'Neal
- "9 to 5," Dolly Parton
- "Lucky 4 You (Tonight I'm Just Me)," SHeDAISY
- "That Girl," Jennifer Nettles
- "I Know Where I'm Going," The Judds
- "Picture to Burn," Taylor Swift
- "Guys Do It All the Time," Mindy McCready
- "Nobody Ever Told You," Carrie Underwood
- "Who I Am," Jessica Andrews
- "Jezebel," Chely Wright
Just remember: you'll need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists!
The Latest Social Media Challenge Is a Game Everyone Played as a Kid
Every few months, the internet graces us with a funny and ridiculous challenge. Last year, we had the Running Man and Mannequin challenges. So far this year, we've seen the Get Out and How Bow Dah challenges. Now, prepare to be part of the Floor Is Lava Challenge, a game straight out of your childhood.
The Floor Is Lava Challenge is easy: tell someone the "floor is lava" and that person has five seconds to find higher ground. It's a game you probably played as a kid, except now you can join everyone else on the internet and do it. According to Mic, the challenge took off when Instagram user kevinfreshwater posted a video compilation of him and his friend Jahannah James doing it. Look for examples ahead of what exactly the Floor Is Lava Challenge is, and then go try it yourself.
Why Carrots Are the Secret Ingredient I Always Add to Tomato Sauce
I never knew why my mom always added carrots to her homemade tomato sauce until I learned that they act as a replacement for something else: sugar. I now know that it's extremely common to find white sugar in pasta sauce recipes, usually around 1/4 cup. And jarred tomato sauces tend to be full of sugar, too - you might be surprised if you check the label. In fact, it's what makes Papa John's pizza sauce so sweet and makes you say, "What is that?" every time you can't quite place the undeniably delicious flavor of the sauce.
This all makes sense - sugar helps counteract the acidity of tomatoes and creates a more balanced flavor profile. But I've grown up to realize it's an unnecessary ingredient - it just adds to your daily sugar intake - and that the subtle sweetness of carrots eliminates the need for sugar altogether.
Don't worry; carrots won't make your tomato sauce chunky. The trick is to chop them super finely and sauté them along with the onion and the garlic so they cook down as their sweetness releases. To make this step as easy as possible, my mom always pulses fresh, peeled carrots a few times in a food processor until they're pulverized. They blend into the sauce so smoothly, you'd never know they were there. The next time you're picking out a tomato-based pasta recipe for the night, try leaving your sugar in the pantry and opting for this method instead. No one will know your secret, but you might want to reveal it anyway.
The Reason You're Craving Insanely Sweet Foods During Pregnancy
Could you not get enough sweet foods during your pregnancy? Did you want to pour chocolate on everything? Maybe Buddy the Elf's pasta looks like your kind of meal? Find out why and how to satisfy those cravings in the video above!
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