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.
vendredi 30 juin 2017
Heads-Up: Uniqlo Is a Surprising Source of Affordable Fitness Wear
The name might seem funny, but the clothing deals at Uniqlo are no joke - and the breadth of the store's selection may surprise you. There's plenty of workwear for putting together cute office outfits, and there are everyday basics available in every color under the sun. But the most exciting deals are hiding out in Uniqlo's workout gear department. If you're looking to beef up your fitness wardrobe without breaking the bank, it's worth checking out Uniqlo Sport.
5 Downsides to Running a Marathon
Running a marathon is a huge accomplishment. No matter what one's finish time is, crossing the finish at 26.2 miles is a major milestone in anyone's life. Whether it's a first marathon or a 50th marathon, it is the culmination of months of training, time, and above all, dedication to running. The feeling of elation and self-awe is something that never really leaves you when you finish. Even the most confident runner will remember his or her first marathon, and that feeling of "I did this" will stay with them forever. It's an amazing feeling to accomplish something so big after months of wondering how it could be possible to get there. Despite all this, there are some downsides to consider when running a marathon.
1. Marathons may make you gain weight
Think all that running and high mileage weeks will make the pounds melt off? Think again. When you're running, you need fuel. You'll probably be hungrier than ever before. You'll also be gaining muscle. If you're not varying up your routine with pace, intervals, and elevation, your body may start to adjust to one thing and therefore be less efficient about burning calories. If you're not careful, weight gain can happen. If this is the case, pay attention to eating more balanced meals during training - full of healthy protein and whole grains - so you'll stay fuller for longer.
Of course, gaining a couple pounds isn't necessarily a bad thing, as a lot depends on your perspective. If you feel stronger and proud of what your body can do, then embrace those few extra pounds. If the unexpected weight gain causes you to feel down on yourself or you feel like it's somehow hindering your performance, figure out why this may make you unhappy and reconsider what your primary goal was when training for the marathon. Never define your self-worth by the number on the scale. Training for a marathon should not be about trying to lose weight, or certainly not the primary reason. It may be a time goal, just finishing the race, overall self-improvement, or becoming a stronger person - physically and mentally.
2. Marathons may hurt your immune system
Regular exercise is great for your immune system, but sometimes too much exercise or extremely taxing workouts can actually suppress or weaken it. If you're like me and have found yourself consistently coming down with a cold either right before a marathon or immediately following one, you know firsthand this is true. Certainly proper rest and nutrition can help counter this, but it's worth acknowledging that running a marathon can be hard on not only your muscles but the rest of your body's systems. That's yet another reason why one should allow one's self to fully recover in between intense workouts and certainly following a macro-training cycle (i.e., training for a marathon).
3. Marathons increase your risk of injury
Statistically, the higher the mileage, the higher the risk of injury. Running so many miles and so frequently may also exacerbate old injuries - or create new ones. So, in training for any long distance race, you'll need to be extremely careful with how you progress the more you spend time running and logging high mileage. It's very important that when beginning any training plan, no matter what the distance, there is a base-building period before the training season even starts. During training, it's so important that you allow yourself at least one or two rest days each week, and on your easy running days, you slow your pace and your effort down significantly. Doing too much, too soon, is one of the cardinal rules of what not to do when running or exercising in general, as this will inevitably lead to over training and injury.
4. Marathons are addicting
It's true that when you accomplish something you didn't think you could ever do before, you might want to do it again. Races tend to be like this . . . especially marathons. You finish one, and then you realize that maybe you could either do better next time, or maybe you crave that feeling of accomplishment all over again, so you sign up for another race.
When I decided to run my first marathon, I had only previously run a half-marathon and was an inexperienced runner. I probably did everything wrong in my training and during the race in terms of strategy, nutrition, hydration, etc., yet I still finished with a decent time. Even though I could barely walk in the days that followed, I knew I had to do another. I wanted to be faster. I wanted to say that I could run a marathon in under four hours. I wanted to be smarter about my training the next time around. Now, eight years later and seven marathons under my belt, I'm a Boston Marathon qualifier, and yet I still want to run to beat my current PR. I know at some point I will "hit a wall" and start to slow down - this is inevitable - but because I accomplished something I never thought I would be capable of doing, I wonder if I can do better than before. So can self-improvement be a bad thing? Perhaps. One needs to be very careful not to push your limits too much. This could lead to physical injury, burnout, or being so compulsive that running comes at a sacrifice to the rest of your life. Allow running to be just a part of your life, but don't let it consume you.
5. Marathons change your perspective
After running a marathon, suddenly a half-marathon or 10k and definitely a 5k can seem too short. When you train for a marathon, you're used to thinking about distance in terms of "long runs" or "medium" runs, combined with tempo, intervals, and hill workouts - which are still usually more than a couple miles. During training, short runs sometimes get sidelined, or aren't thought of as very important as they tend to get classified as "shakeouts" or "warm-ups." Running two, three, or even four miles may be perceived as not a legitimate running distance. Yet it shouldn't be this way. Running any distance - no matter how far or how slow is a workout. It's always better than the alternative. But after taking a hiatus from running, whether by choice or because of injury, starting all over is really hard. Suddenly, a "short" run feels incredibly difficult, as if it's a marathon itself, and yet it's nowhere near the distance of one. This can be a huge blow to one's confidence. Try to separate the past and the present. There will always be a constant urge to compare your new self to your old self. Think about the marathon that you ran as a physical accomplishment and the "starting over" as more of a mental test. Move past the negative thoughts, and just focus on the very act of moving forward.
Despite these drawbacks, there are so many wonderful things about training for and running marathons, but it's worth being realistic about our reasons for doing so. Especially when trying something new, it's always important to factor in the pros and cons. Since most people spend months training for a marathon, it's important to know that there can be downsides when deciding to train for one. And, while marathon participation is at an all time high, this doesn't mean they are for everyone. Just because you may not have run a marathon, a half marathon, or any race distance for that matter, doesn't mean you're less of a runner than the experienced marathoner. What matters is that you move, and you allow running to be part of who you are, but not let the distance you decide to run define you.
Rachel Spurrier, founder of Go & Glow, is a RRCA Certified Running Coach and Pre and Post Natal Corrective Exercise Specialist. A seven-time marathoner and Boston Marathon qualifier, she is also a mom to two young boys. Her writing has appeared in Women's Running, Red Tricycle, and other publications. She currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.
6 Women Who Have Danced Their Way Into Ryan Gosling's Heart
Ryan Gosling is notoriously private about his love life. The 36-year-old actor is currently dating actress Eva Mendes, but long before Eva, there were five other lucky women who were linked to the charming La La Land star. After doing some (very important) investigating, we discovered one fun fact about Ryan that you probably never noticed: his go-to place on dates is to Disneyland! That's not the only thing that surprised us, though. Keep reading to discover which women may (or may not) have dated your longtime man crush.
All the Times Ashley Graham Slipped Into a Bikini and Looked Out of This World
Ashley Graham has been steaming up the beach, the streets, the runways, and social media for the better part of two years, and we just can't get enough. The 29-year-old stunner keeps us motivated with her inspiring quotes on body positivity and loving your curves, and her curves in a bikini are a real sight to behold. We've rounded up Ashley's best swimsuit moments in celebration of Ashley, swimsuits, and supreme body confidence.
The Best Healthy Ice Creams We've Tried So Far
If you're an ice-cream-lover but looking for a way to healthify your favorite indulgence (more power to ya), then boy do we have some options for you. Now more than ever, healthy ice creams are on the rise, and we are really living for it. There are so many brands and varieties to choose from, whether you're just looking for dairy-free ice creams or you want a high-protein, low-calorie option. Are you ready for some serious eye candy (eye . . . ice cream . . . ?)? Let's get into it.
The Absolute Best New Trader Joe's Foods You Need This Month
Trader Joe's has tons of new items worthy of trying this year, and this month is no different. TJ's is stepping up its game this June with all-natural fruit snacks, addictive cookies, and more unique items you'll want to add to your shopping list. Read on to hear our reviews of each new item that we'd recommend trying for yourself this month, plus the ones we wouldn't.
I Haven't Worn a Real Bra in 4 Months - and I'm Never Going Back
I don't have big boobs in the slightest, but I have the world's widest rib cage, so bra shopping has never, ever been fun (not that it sounds very fun if you're well-endowed either, but I digress). Since my first training bra was purchased around the time I turned 12, I've hated wearing a bra at all. Like most women, I spend my days at work dreaming of that glorious moment I can strip down at home and fling my underwire death-trap across the room like a slingshot, allowing my girls to roam freely for the rest of the night. I thought I was destined to waste my existence wishing it were the end of the day, until I found Calvin Klein's cotton bralettes.
Now, I'm not living under a rock - I know there are a million other types of bralettes that have come before and several million that will come still, whether they be coated in a layer of thin lace or made of sweat-wicking material to keep my ladies cool in the Summer. But these Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Racerback Bralettes ($28, pictured above) are my holy grail, and I vow in front of all these witnesses to love them forever.
It all started with an Instagram photo (as most revelations these days do). I spotted my little cousin wearing one of these simple bras as a top (to go to the club, because she's young and hip and not the ripe mental age of 97, like myself). She looked so comfy, so I immediately texted her to ask where she got it while also subtly begging her to just pass hers on to me. She told me she got the bra at Urban Outfitters, so I visited its Instagram page, and wouldn't you know it, these bras were featured in two or three of its 10 most recent photos. I took that as a sign of a trend, urged myself to get out of bed early on a Saturday morning (OK, it was like, 11 a.m.), and drove straight to the store, where I purchased a CK bralette in black, to match my soul.
It was deep love at first wear (and it's been an ever-growing whirlwind affair since - so much so that I'm positive my boyfriend knows I love these bras more than I do him). I immediately snapped the above photo after prancing around my apartment and posted it to Instagram, sharing my pure ecstasy over this new bra with my followers. I felt so good - a mixture between being held in just enough but also so free - that I could probably write something worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize about my new favorite clothing item.
Although we're still firmly in the honeymoon phase, it's been about four months since I bought my first one (time flies when your boobs are free). The OG bra has since been joined by two others (a white and a gray, because neutrals fo' lyfe), and I wear one every. single. day. (In this four-month span, I was forced to wear a strapless bra once because of the back of the dress I wanted to sport on Mother's Day, and as soon as I clipped myself into the Devil's harness, I wanted to cry out for my Calvins!)
If, like me, you find the best part of your day to be swinging your bra over your head like a lasso after several long hours of confinement, live not like a prisoner any longer. Join me in this place of pure bliss, won't you?
I'm Proof That Morning Workouts Can Change Your Life
I wasn't always a morning person.
I vividly remember my elementary-school struggle to get out of bed at the ungodly hour of 7:30 a.m. In middle school, I discovered the joys of staying up past midnight and sleeping well into the morning on weekends, Summer weather be damned.
In high school, I joined the crew team, and it quickly became my life. Though most of our practices took place in the afternoon, we occasionally practiced at 6 a.m., and I took to those morning workouts with a near-fanatical devotion. Watching the sun rising majestically over the Philadelphia skyline from the Schuylkill River, I first experienced the inward thrill of feeling like the world belonged to me while everyone else was still asleep.
In college, practice took place exclusively at 6 a.m., six days a week, often followed by an hour in the weight room. The majesty of morning quickly wore off with the grueling schedule and over time became routine. Even on days off, no matter how hard I'd tried to exhaust myself the night before, I'd wake naturally by 7 a.m., staring irritably at the ceiling.
After graduation, I reverted back to afternoon workouts, simply because I could. There were no more races to win, no more depth charts to climb, no more school colors to wave. I sweated through evening yoga classes and went for runs on weekend mornings, long after the sun had risen. And then one day, my roommate joined a gym and started taking an early morning strength and conditioning class. She invited me to try it with her. I resisted and then relented.
I never looked back.
I immediately got hooked on the most obvious advantage of early morning workouts: getting it over with. I loved not having to plan out everything I ate during the day to ensure that I would be neither too full nor too lightheaded to work out in the evening. I loved having my evenings free to spend with friends. I never felt exhausted after a workout; on the contrary, I was more awake upon arriving to work than I'd ever been. Before long, if I didn't work out in the morning, I wouldn't do it at all.
When I became a Spin instructor several years later, it felt only natural to volunteer to teach the early morning classes. There is a dedicated crowd who attends regularly, and their energy and drive are what gets me out of bed in the morning. Still, nothing makes me happier than seeing a member who regularly attends evening and weekend classes deciding to give the 6 a.m. a try. Satisfaction at getting a workout out of the way is a common refrain, but over time, I hope that they start to see that it's more than that.
I hope they feel a secret triumph when they see the sun rising after their workout and know that they were up first. I hope they find that they really can take time for themselves without compromising on all that they give to other people all day long. I hope they fall in love with the feeling of walking into the studio barely awake and leaving ready to take on the world.
Of course, all of this is only possible if one can overcome the most obvious hurdle: getting out of bed. For that, I offer my two favorite pieces of advice:
1. Lay out EVERYTHING the night before.
The last thing you need when staggering half-asleep out of the house before sunrise is to feel like you forgot something, especially something like proper clothing or a water bottle that's going to make a huge difference in your comfort level in class or at the gym. Don't make it harder for yourself. Before you go to bed, when your brain is functioning fully, lay out everything you're going to need in a spot where it'll be easy to grab: clothes (right down to the socks), footwear, a water bottle, a towel, and anything else that you need to be comfortable and get the most out of your workout. This could include anything from a Fitbit to an energy bar to something you might need if you're planning to go straight to work from the gym or studio.
2. Stand up.
When your alarm goes off, hit stop (not snooze!) and stand up. Once you're up, you're likely to move, and if you move, you'll make it out the door and to your workout. I always tell my classes that if you just get yourself to the studio at that hour, you're going to workout - that's the easy part. But none of it is possible without standing up, so just start there and let that be your focus. The rest will come naturally.
1 Week to the Beach? Here's How to Look and Feel Your Best Fast
It's T-minus seven days to your swimsuit-clad vacation, and you haven't accomplished any of the healthy goals you had in mind when you booked. We've all been there. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to sustainable weight loss, but that doesn't mean you should give up completely! You can absolutely feel a difference in your energy and how your clothes fit in just seven days. Follow these healthy rules when you're one week out from the fun, and get ready to rock your favorite crop tops, shorts, and swimsuits with a little extra confidence.
This 86-Year-Old Planned Parenthood Volunteer Wants Young Women to Keep Fighting For Their Rights
Thalia Cassuto talking to Representative Louise Slaughter from New York.
It's hard, as a woman, not to be disillusioned with the current state of Congress and President Donald Trump's administration. It often feels like women's reproductive rights take a step back each day, with lawmakers somehow under the impression that it's easy to obtain birth control and that men shouldn't have to pay for prenatal and maternity care. But when it comes to 86-year-old Planned Parenthood volunteer Thalia "Tobby" Cassuto, who's been fighting for women's rights since the 1960s, she's not ready to give up just yet. And what's more, she wants young women to come to the same conclusion.
Cassuto first encountered Planned Parenthood in 1955 when she visited a facility in Queens, NY, to obtain birth control. "That was where you went for birth control. It never occurred to me to go anywhere else," she explained to POPSUGAR. By the time the women's rights movement started in the 1960s, Cassuto had embraced life as an activist and was heavily involved with her local Planned Parenthood. Cassuto grew up in a world where women had fewer choices over their career, bodies, and life, and she now hopes that young women understand how much better they have it in 2017. But she doesn't want them to take those rights completely for granted. "Young women are better off but need to very wary of how well off they are because it's a slippery slope," she said. "It's easy for some of what they take for granted to be reduced. Look at this terrible fight we're having to keep Planned Parenthood as part of health care - it's grotesque what they are trying to do."
"I'm not here because I need anything. I'm here because I care about my country and the people in it."
She also recalls growing up at a time when women like her couldn't own their own checkbook or credit card. Cassuto worries that new rules around women today are being formed. "Society norms become embroidered in rules and that's what's happening now. Society norms - and they aren't exactly society norms, they are the norms of a certain component of society - about the fact, for example, that women are not entitled to safe and legal abortions if they are not ready to have children," she said. "And isn't that in danger of again being denied us in the law if we're not careful."
It's for this reason that Cassuto's been contacting her local congresspeople for years. "I feel wonderful about getting my voice heard," she said and wants nothing more for young women to feel the same way and to keep fighting. "[They need to] understand why it's necessary to keep fighting and understand the history of why it's still with us. Understand that it's part of a broader fight. That when they fight for women's rights, they are fighting for decency - not just for themselves."
These days, she visits the office of Representative John Faso of New York's nineteenth congressional district every single Friday. Faso voted in favor of the American Health Care Act passed in the House, and while she's sometimes there to support her local government, some cases merit protest from the 86-year-old as well. For Cassuto, her protests are the least thing she can do. "Listen," Cassuto said, "I'm going to be 87 years old. I don't need anything - I'm not here because I need anything. I'm here because I care about my country and the people in it."
30 Pint-Size Tattoos Perfect For Your Back
Whether you're tiptoeing into the ink pool or you prefer a more minimalistic vibe, there's one universal truth: your backside is prime real estate for body art. A full sleeve is badass and hidden tattoos keep things on the sly, but these pint-size designs just might convince you that sometimes the smallest tattoos make the biggest impressions. Up ahead, meet the miniature marvels sure to have you coming, er, back for more. And if subtle is your thing, make sure to check out these white tattoos, too.
Kristen Stewart's New Frosted Tips Will Have You Singing "I Want It That Way"
No matter the month, when I look at Kristen Stewart's new hair, it feels like it's gonna be May. For the past month, the actress - who made bleached buzz cuts a thing back in March - has been seen everywhere from Paris to LA sporting a decidedly new 'do. Kristen's Pinterest style board (a thing I just made up but now need to see) must be filled with images of Justin Timberlake and Lance Bass, because she has frosted tips now.
My real hope is that Stewart just got cast in a JT biopic and this is all for the role. The actual explanation is that her brunette roots are growing out, which gives the optical illusion of frosted tips. It's an unexpected but pretty damn chic way to transition out of a buzz cut. And since she's one of the only mainstream stars to have made such a drastic chop, we're so excited to see how her grow-out process works.
So if you're bold enough to follow suit, take note that you'll probably look like Nick Carter for a bit when the bleach starts to fade. But since we seem to be living through the second coming of frosted tips, it seems as if Backstreet's back. All right!
These Signs From the Pride Parades Will Fill You With Emotion
On Sunday, Pride parades took over the streets of cities across America, but unlike the celebratory parades of the past, this year's event focused heavily on the "resistance." President Donald Trump and his administration have been openly against LGBTQ rights, but these parades prove just how powerful people are together as a community. In addition to celebrating love and equality, attendees remembered the lives of the Pulse shooting victims.
The streets were filled with rainbow flags, colorful parade floats, and, of course, signs that spoke volumes. See some of the best signs from the parades around the country ahead, and prepare to feel a whole range of emotions!
A Waterproof Eyeliner For Every Color of the Rainbow
Nobody enjoys eyeliner running down their face on a hot Summer day, but don't worry, we have a solution. While traditional liner smudges and smears and can end up in a huge dark mess all over your face, waterproof liners will stay put in even the roughest conditions.
Instead of looking like you've been crying your eyes out, try investing in waterproof options perfect for getting through hot days, poolside adventures, and lounging on the beach.
Read on to get a waterproof eyeliner in every hue of the rainbow. You'll never have running liner again.
Why Sam May Be the Key to Jon Snow Learning About His Parents on Game of Thrones
The next season of Game of Thrones just might be the most important season thus far. Obviously, we're closer to the ultimate reveal of who will end up on the Iron Throne, and we're on the brink of some meetings and revelations that are a long time coming. One: Jon Snow has to find out who his parents are. We're certain that he'll learn the truth about his parentage in one of several ways in season seven, but it's now become clear to us that one person close to Jon will be the one to tell him: Samwell Tarly.
Here's why it will not only be Sam to inform Jon that he has royal blood, but why it will happen this season.
- Sam has always been the person to push Jon to his potential. Sam and Jon are each other's advocates from the beginning of their friendship, especially while being part of the Night's Watch. It's Sam who's responsible for Jon getting elected as Lord Commander back in season five, after all. These two have always helped each other out, like how it's Jon who allows Sam to go to the Citadel. Which brings me to my next point . . .
- We're still with Sam on his journey, which makes him significant. The last we saw Sam, he's entering the Citadel to become a maester, and it's obviously not a goodbye. Sam has gone from being a supporting character to something more significant, and his presence in the penultimate season proves that. But of course, it's what he's doing - and about to do - that makes him key. While Sam will probably be the man who figures out how to defeat the White Walkers, I think he has another, more important job.
- Sam is already into this kind of thing. It's not just White Walkers Sam will research; I think Sam will learn about and tell Jon that his parents are Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. This is news that will blow Jon's mind - and inform him that he has royal blood and a claim to the Iron Throne. And how will Sam find out those are Jon's parents? The simple fact won't be in any books in the Citadel, we assume, but Ned Stark once learned the scandalous parentage of the Baratheon children by studying historical texts. Imagine what the brilliant Sam can do in a library like the Citadel's. Remember, also, that Sam is fascinated by genealogy. This is his thing.
- The seeds for Sam playing a key role in Game of Thrones history were sewn in the season six finale. In the most recent finale, eagle-eyed fans noticed that when Sam reaches the Citadel, the chandeliers resemble the gyroscope from the show's opening credits. Vanity Fair mashed up the moments to compare them:
Coincidence? Probably not.
The other reason it would be beneficial for Sam to be the one that delivers this earth-shattering news to Jon is that Sam is also up on Daenerys Targaryen's plight. Back when Maester Aemon is alive, Sam is his steward, and in season five, Sam is reading Aemon a letter about Daenerys, and Aemon remarks about her being "a Targaryen alone in the world." So Sam could not only inform Jon who his parents are, but tell him about Daenerys and what she's doing, and potentially urge him to make an alliance with her.
Guess we'll have to wait until July to find out.
Grey's Anatomy Season 14 Is Shaping Up to Be Pretty Dramatic
Even though we only just witnessed the season 13 finale of Grey's Anatomy, it's never too soon to look ahead. In the wake of everything that has happened, it's clear there are plenty of planted seeds that will surely bloom once the show returns in the Fall. Granted, Stephanie will no longer be with us, but with a few new faces, a couple of new flames, and that trademark drama we've always loved, there's plenty to look forward to. There isn't much available information about the 14th season of Grey's, but we do have potential things figured out.
1. Owen's Sister Is Going to Cause All Kinds of Disruption
Owen's sister is alive! At the very end of the finale, Owen reconnects with his long-lost sibling, Megan. This could cause all kind of upheaval. It will certainly change Owen's entire life. Then there's Riggs, who was in love with Megan before she vanished. The timing is terrible: Meredith has just opened herself up romantically to Riggs, and now she risks losing him. Will Megan and Riggs be able to pick up where they left off?
There's also a chance Megan will join the ranks at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Once she recovers from the years of trauma, obviously. But if she does end up on the hospital staff, it'll be interesting to see what kind of ripple effect it has on everyone else.
2. Jackson and Maggie Might Get Together
And by "might" we mean "almost definitely." By the time the finale rolled around, the show had been dropping hints that Maggie and Jackson would pair up. Even in the last episode, April tells Maggie that she's pretty sure Jackson has feelings for her. The question is, will either of them act on it? Call us crazy, but we're still holding out hope for Japril.
3. Arizona Might Be Broken-Hearted All Over Again
Now that Minnick has been fired, there's a strong chance she's leaving Seattle. It seems like Arizona is about to have another wound to tend to - unless, for some strange reason, Minnick sticks around. We'll admit, we didn't exactly love Minnick, but it was nice to see Arizona happy!
4. We Probably Haven't Heard the Last of Jo's Husband
The storyline with Jo's husband has only heated more and more since we first found out. At the end of the season, Alex meets him in person but fails to follow through with any actual action. The thing is, the show wouldn't have put a face to the name unless we're going meet him again. We have a feeling he's going to be a major player in the episodes to come.
5. Is There Hope For Owen and Amelia?
We caught a glimmer of love remaining between Owen and Amelia near the end of season 13 when they embrace and cry it out together in the elevator. Is there a chance Amelia is coming around? Could Owen's sister have softened his hard shell? It's absolutely possible.
6. The Schedule Is Just the Same as Always
ABC has already released the Fall TV lineup for 2017, and Grey's will continue to dominate the Thursday night spot. The show has almost always kicked off the season near the end of September, so we've just got four months to wait.
Thirsty? Just Swipe Right on These Shirtless Celebrity Hotties
What better way to celebrate Summer than by swiping right on hot shirtless dudes? We've rounded up the sexiest shirtless moments from the past 12 months for your viewing (and voting) pleasure. Swipe right to show each guy some love, or left if you're not really feeling them.
You Haven't Lived Until You've Seen Nicole Kidman Lip-Sync Hamilton’s "Schuyler Sisters"
The cast of The Beguiled can do a lot more than terrorize a Civil War-era deserter, OK? As part of Lin-Manuel Miranda's Hamilton-themed #Ham4All challenge, Nicole Kidman, Elle Fanning, Kirsten Dunst, Colin Farrell, and the rest of the film's cast (and crew!) shake off the dark, gothic vibe of Sofia Coppola's drama in favor of lip-syncing to "Schuyler Sisters." The video was actually directed, edited, and produced by young cast member Emma Howard (following in Coppola's footsteps, perhaps?), and regardless of whether or not you're a Broadway fan, I think we can all agree that seeing Kidman shimmy for charity is something to be treasured.
The Heartbreaking Photos That Capture a Tragic Birth Story
"It was so beautiful and precious. I would do it again, and again, and again," Julie told Ela Wunderli of Itsy Photography, who photographed the birth of her seventh child, Lily, who would die shortly after birth.
In her 36th week of pregnancy, Julie and her family moved from Arizona to California. Having given birth six times before, Julie was an old pro at this pregnancy thing and was having a happy, normal pregnancy. Mixed into her week of unpacking and settling was a doctor's appointment at her new OB/Gyn practice. "At the appointment they wanted to do an ultrasound where they discovered many concerns," she said. "By the next day the doctors told us that our daughter most likely had Trisomy 13 or 18, but they couldn't be sure until after she was born and tested."
Trisomy is the presence of three chromosomes instead of one. The most commonly known trisomy is Trisomy 21, otherwise known as Down syndrome. Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) and Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) are genetic disorders that include health problems that affect almost every organ of the body. They are fatal diagnoses - more than half of babies affected with the conditions do not survive the first week of life, and survivors do not usually make it past their first birthday.
The room was filled with anticipation during the 20 hours of labor. "Everyone held their breath to see if she would survive the delivery," Ela shared. "She held her breath too! But when the doctors tried to intubate her, she let out a tiny cry and started to breathe on her own. It was a miracle!"
Baby Lily was put on a CPAP (a breathing assistance machine) and rushed to the NICU for monitoring. Later that morning, her siblings arrived to visit her. After receiving hand-washing lessons, they filed into the NICU to welcome their baby sister. Each child had an opportunity to touch her and welcome her in their own way, before moving on to Julie's room to spend some time with mom. Later that day, Julie spent some time with Lily in the NICU, and Ela had the opportunity to capture their moments together.
"I couldn't have been happier to have caught her tiny eyes opening - even if it was only for a split second," Ela shared. "She cried a tiny little cry - and I must say it was like music to hear."
Lily lived for two and a half days. During that time her family showered her with love and threw her first and second birthday parties. She passed away peacefully - tube and wire free - in her mother's arms. Her family wrote her a beautiful obituary:
. . . She spent two-and-a-half celestial days with us. We celebrated her first birthday with lilies, handwritten birthday cards from her brothers and sisters, and a big shiny balloon in the shape of a number one. On her second birthday, we gathered round her. We held her. We hugged her and kissed her again and again. We told her how much we loved her, and how we were going to miss her so very much. And we said good-bye. For now.
Though heartbreaking, Ela says the entire two and a half days were beautiful. "I've never seen a mother so radiant and glowing. The faith of this family was beyond measure."
Read on to see the captivating photos Ela took that the family will cherish forever.
If You Thought Daddy Yankee Was Cool, Just Wait Till You See His Family
Daddy Yankee may be the "King of Reggaeton," but as it turns out, his kids are just as cool. Yankee had his first daughter, Yamilette, at 17 years old and shares daughter Jesaaelys and son Jeremy with wife Mireddys González. Although the 40-year-old musician keeps his family life pretty private, we've gotten a few peeks at his kin here and there thanks to social media. Whether they're enjoying a tropical vacation or attending an award show together, there's no denying the love in this family.
Your Bridesmaids Will Be Anything but Boring in These Champagne-Colored Dresses
Choosing a color theme for your wedding can sometimes be hard. You'll want to pick a shade you love but also something that's different from everyone else's wedding. We're seeing a rising trend of champagne-colored bridesmaid dresses, which means you're probably thinking about this color scheme, too. Gold, silver, and metallics are great neutrals that stand out and glisten against all skin tones. Check out some of these top picks for your wedding.
This Is Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Don't Take a Rest Day
If you're someone who has a hard time giving yourself a break, and you've been skipping rest days, then listen up: while we admire your dedication, skipping your recovery is doing you more harm than you think.
We wanted to find out exactly what happens to your body when you train too hard, so we talked to Michelle Opperman, director of group fitness for Crunch, and Jan Milano, CSCS and sports performance coach at DIAKADI. Did you know the effects can be so severe physiologically and psychologically that there's a name for it? It's called "Overtraining Syndrome."
Want to know what Overtraining Syndrome looks like? Here's what happens to your body when you don't take time to recover from intense exercise (or endurance events!):
- Glycogen stores are depleted. Opperman and Milano both noted that your glycogen decreases. Glycogen is your body's energy source, and not something you want to eliminate. Milano says "decreased glycogen may contribute to the lowered lactate responses," meaning your muscles fatigue more quickly.
- Corticosteroids increase. We know that cortisone and cortisol (stress hormones) are not good for weight loss, and even add to belly-fat retention. Milano told us that these elevated levels also depress the immune system by inhibiting the reaction of lymphocytes to antigens (basically, the fighter cells can't fight the bad invader cells). So overtraining equals a higher likelihood of getting sick.
- Your heart goes into overdrive. "Both resting heart rate and submaximal exercise heart rate are increased," said Milano. Be nice to your heart. Take a breather.
- Your performance suffers. Opperman told us that when sufficient rest is not included in a training program, your ability to perform (i.e., continue training, growing muscle, getting stronger) plateaus or declines, because your muscles literally cannot recover and regenerate. So things just get worse and worse.
- You'll lose muscle mass. Consistent breakdown + no recovery = bye, muscles. That's the opposite of what you're trying to do, right?
- You'll feel AWFUL. The tiny tears in your muscles cannot heal, which results in inflammation, swelling, and tenderness. Opperman says the feeling will "become extreme, lasting for days." She also noted that you'll feel physically exhausted for an extended period as well, which could make it hard for you to perform your day to day functions.
- It messes with your mind. Muscular fatigue is not the only thing Opperman and Milano warned about. The fatigue and distress extend psychologically, and Milano noted that you'll notice mental changes before physical ones. "Decreased vigor, motivation, and confidence; raised tension, depression, and anger accompany an individual's recovery," said Milano.
Do yourself a favor. Go to yoga, don't skip savasana, do your cooldowns, and take a day off to recover. Need some pointers? Make sure you keep our recovery checklist handy, or try any of these recovery essentials.
6 Eating Mistakes That Make You Feel Bloated
Sick of feeling full and bloated all the time? It's likely that what and how you eat could be the reason you feel so crummy. Here's a list of reasons you may be dealing with an uncomfortable belly.
You're Not Eating Enough Fiber
One of the most common reasons for bloat is that you're not getting enough fiber, or you may even be eating too much of a good thing. To keep your digestive system happy, aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day. Gradually add in fiber-rich foods like beans, avocado, pears, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. And if you think you may be eating too much, try cutting back a little to see how you feel.
You're Not Staying Hydrated
If you're not drinking enough water each day, constipation could be the reason you feel bloated. And we're talking plain water, as carbonated water makes you swallow more air. You don't need to go nuts and drink a gallon of water a day, but aim for around 60 to 80 ounces daily. Drinking a big glass right when you wake up can get things moving right along (if you know what we mean), which can prevent bloat the rest of the day. And keeping a reusable water bottle on hand will encourage you to sip all day. If you forget, set reminders on your phone.
You're Inhaling Your Food
Whether you're in a rush to scarf down breakfast because you're late for work, or you need a quick bite before an afternoon workout, inhaling your food in five seconds flat is one of the worst things you can do for your digestion. You're more likely to swallow air, which translates to belly bloat. Take time out of your day to devote to eating and digesting. You'll enjoy the food much more and feel more satisfied.
You're Eating Foods That Irritate Your System
Certain foods can be hard to digest, so keeping a food journal for a week can help you pinpoint what foods might be the culprit. Dairy products like Greek yogurt, gluten, apples and pears, beans, broccoli, onions, salty foods, alcohol, and fried foods can cause that full, gassy feeling.
You're Eating Too Much Sugar
You're the first one to admit that you've got a major sweet tooth. And it's not just a few squares of dark chocolate after lunch or a bowl of ice cream after dinner. You go for sweetened vanilla soy milk in your oatmeal and douse it in maple syrup. Unfortunately, eating tons of sugar, even natural, can cause belly bloat for some people. When that sugar craving strikes, reach for fruit or this frozen banana nice cream.
You May Be Eating Too Much
If every meal involves you eating until you feel grossly stuffed, you're not only consuming extra calories that will lead to weight gain, but your digestive system can't handle the load, so it retaliates. No wonder you feel painfully bloated. Focus on eating until you're 80 percent full to avoid that sick, bloated feeling. Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition suggests that you can even take a 10-minute break halfway through your meal to assess whether you should continue eating more or be done. It's OK not to finish all the food in front of you!
Life Sentence: We're Counting Down the Days Until Lucy Hale's New Show Premieres
Your weekly dose of Pretty Little Liars might be over - yes, we're still reeling from the reveal of A.D. and that full-circle ending, too - but luckily one of its stars is already heading back to TV with a new series! Lucy Hale is set to star in The CW's upcoming comedy, Life Sentence. The series is created by Fuller House producers Erin Cardillo and Richard Keith, and it's going to be awesome.
Thanks to the network's first-look trailer, there is one thing we know for sure: Hale is giving us life in her new show . . . even though it's technically about death. For those of you who haven't seen it, stop everything you're doing right now and watch it. Everyone who has seen it already, let's chat, because as you know this show is going to be a good one.
Hale plays Stella Abbott, a young girl who is dying from cancer, well, at least she was dying from cancer. According to the teaser, Stella gets news that she's actually cured - aka given a "life sentence," instead of the death sentence she thought she had.
Stella is surprisingly upbeat about the fact that she's terminally ill (for eight years). She gets married, jumps out of a plane, and even buys a "funeral cake." Living however, with all its uncertainties, seems like it's going to be a lot harder to handle. Luckily, Hale is the one playing the complex character. Judging by the trailer, she seems to be nailing the emotions that come with living like every day is your last (because technically it could've been), only to discover that you get to live.
Throughout the teaser, we see that Stella has been kept in the dark about a lot of things, because her loved ones want to keep her happy and give her the best shot of surviving, which is sweet. The bad news is that all their dirty laundry is now coming out, and in a hilarious fashion, we might add. Her husband (Elliot Knight) has been lying about his favorite movie, spoiler alert: it's not Love Actually - and holding in some bodily functions - while her parents have been living double lives. All of their secrets are going to come out when Life Sentence premieres, and Stella can't play the cancer card anymore . . . which, in all fairness, is a card she had rightfully been allowed to play for a long time.
Oh, and Stella is going to have to get a job, as a barista, in the age of hipsters and fancy coffee. What a wakeup call! The best part of the teaser is when Stella has to spell the name "Timothy" at the coffee shop ... it's Timothy with an "i" at the end. Who knew living without cancer could be so complicated?
Life Sentence is coming to The CW sometime in 2018.
If You Think Emily Ratajkowski's Bikinis Are Amazing, Wait Till You See Her Cover-Ups
When one thinks of Emily Ratajkowski, their mind immediately thinks of one of her many red-hot bikinigrams. But rather than talking about her amazing taste in swimsuits, we're more interested in what she wears on top of those itsy-bitsy bikinis. Just like her swimsuit style, Emily doesn't shy away from showing off a little skin when it comes to choosing a cover-up.
From the floral silk blouse she wore on her picturesque Italian vacation to an off-the-shoulder chambray top that's perfect for the Summer, have a look at Emily's best swimsuit cover-ups. Then, shop similar ones for your wardrobe rotation as well.
Before Summer Ends, Find the Most Flattering Bikini For Your Body Type
Finding the right bikini shouldn't be a stress-inducing shopping experience. At least, not if we have a say in it. If you're still trying to find the perfect two-piece, we've narrowed the options down based on body type. Whether you're curvy with a big bust or you have a more athletic build, you can find the right swimsuit style by following the handy guide ahead. Consider this list the ultimate bikini guide.
For even easier shopping, jump ahead for your needs.
Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton's Friendship Should Be Put in History Books
Many years ago, in a land far, far away, two girls named Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton were best friends . . . and it was so f*cking iconic we don't even know where to begin. The two stars grew up together in Hollywood and went on to star in their reality show, The Simple Life, from 2003 until 2007. During that time, they basically ran pop culture in a world before social media. They rocked the best of early 2000s fashion, had enviable flip phones, and started phrases that you still probably use today (That's hot? Yep, them).
But things took a turn in 2005 when they abruptly stopped speaking. "It's no secret that Nicole and I are no longer friends," Paris said in a statement at the time. "Nicole knows what she did, and that's all I'm ever going to say about it." While neither party has ever confirmed the exact reason for their rift, it was rumored that Nicole showed Paris's infamous sex tape at a party. Sadly the two have never returned to their original glory, but they do seem to be on good terms now. Nicole told Andy Cohen in 2014 that she has nothing but love for Paris. "An idea of a true friend is somebody that's going to be there with you through and through," she said. "The short answer to this is, I haven't spoken to her in a while, but we are very good friends. I love her and I love her family. I have a lot of respect for her." While we wait for a revival of The Simple Life that will probably never come, look back at some of their best (and so beautifully random) friendship moments below.
Game of Thrones: Why It Makes Sense For Jon Snow to Marry Sansa Stark
Gather round, children of Westeros. It's time we talked about a gigantic elephant in the room on Game of Thrones. As you may recall, last season yielded a pretty triumphant outcome for the North. During the epic "Battle of the Bastards," as it was called, Sansa swoops in to save Jon Snow's army, which leads to the defeat of Ramsay Snow and Jon's new title: King of the North. Based on Sansa's newfound badassery, many fans couldn't help but wonder if she might help rule the North in some way. After all, Jon Snow may have been crowned, but he's technically a bastard. As a pure Stark, Sansa may be just as entitled to lay claim. This leads to an inevitable, strange, and not altogether unlikely compromise: maybe the two will just get married.
Before you say anything, we know. It might be a little bit creepy. I mean, the two basically spent their formative years as brother and sister. It would be a very strange jump to have them suddenly married. Even Sophie Turner herself talked about the issue during last year's Game of Thrones panel at Comic-Con. "Sansa and Jon have grown up together, they may as well be siblings. They have that sibling rivalry. I don't know, but I swear to god Dave [Benioff] and Dan [Weiss], if you make anything happen, I'll kill you." Well, there's that. It's clear Turner is kind of against the whole thing, and she has a fair point. Then again, let's take a moment to explain why it's entirely possible.
First of all, incest is already a prevalent theme on the show. Cersei and Jaime Lannister are clearly in love and more than willing to persist regardless of social stigma. So, that automatically means it's possible for Jon Snow and Sansa Stark to pair up. Furthermore, you have to consider that there are levels. Technically, the two are cousins. As we learn at the end of season six, they don't even share a parent. That doesn't make it much better than brother and sister, but still. It matters.
There's something else to consider too: maybe it's just a smart political move. After all, it's clear Sansa's got some brains and supreme strategy and even the ability to accrue proper back-up. She could prove very, very valuable to Jon Snow. Maybe they'll just have a fun, platonic marriage with all the benefits of ruling a kingdom and none of the potentially awkward sibling sex. There, I said it.
Why Every Orange Is the New Black Inmate Is in Prison
Already done binging Orange Is the New Black's fifth season? We don't blame you. Netflix's prison comedy is as great as ever, and we're already psyched about what's coming up. In the most recent season, we learn even more about how the characters end up at Litchfield through their flashbacks. In case you missed anything, here's the definitive guide to exactly what each inmate did wrong - besides getting caught, obviously. Oh, major spoiler alert if you haven't seen season four!
-Additional reporting by Amanda Rosenberg
This Is the Most Thoughtful Gift to Give Any Parent or Grandparent
It can be hard to shop year after year for gifts between all of the holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries, but there's one simple, yet touching gift out there that may just be the most perfect one for literally any parent or grandparent (or basically anyone because, honestly, this gift is amazing).
In a post to Reddit, user KMZIMMERMAN shared his recent Father's Day gift: a frame with two circular stills of the starry sky on each of the nights his two children were born. Underneath are the names of his son and daughter as well as the dates of their births, and above, the words: "The nights your heart grew."
Although this is a beautiful gift the Reddit user received for Father's Day, this would be the perfect present for Mother's Day, a birthday, a wedding anniversary, a graduation - basically any occasion showcasing a memorable date. Check out a few versions of these custom map prints below to share a special night's sky with someone you love.
Turn Up This Power Playlist For a High-Intensity Sweat
Sometimes even your favorite songs are too slow or not intense enough to power you through rigorous, fast-paced exercise. Fortunately, this playlist delivers on high BPMs and plenty of intensity. With beyond-upbeat remixes and dance-inspired beats, you'll be right on tempo and totally out of breath.
Download the free Spotify app to listen. If this mix isn't your speed or your style, check out all of our workout playlists to find something that suits your taste.
12 Quotes from Selena That Will Make You Fall in Love With Her Even More
Selena is everyone's icon on so many levels! The late singer was talented, of course, but also always one to give advice to fans, talking about her journey, but never forgetting her roots and staying true to herself. My favorite thing about Selena was how she never let anything stop her - she knew she had a dream and she was going to make that happen, no matter what.
It's only fitting that through the years, Selena blessed us with inspirational words we hold close to our hearts. Everyone take note because these quotes will stick with you forever!
The Origins and Meanings of the 50 Most Popular Baby Names
Over the last 100 years, there have been decades at a time when a baby name holds the top spot for most popular - ahem, Michael. Of these super popular names, many held their own for so long that they're now in the top 50 names of the last century, but what do they all mean? Where do they come from? Why are they so popular?! Although that last question may be hard to answer, we're about to do the work and answer the first two for you.
Ahead, the 50 most popular baby names - 25 girls' and 25 boys' - along with their origins and meanings.
Olivia Munn's Olive Green One-Piece Is as Sexy as They Come
Olivia Munn is currently vacationing in Turks and Caicos for her birthday, and it seems like she packed a whole suitcase full of amazing swimsuits. After posting an Instagram of herself in a romantic floral bikini, the actress switched into another lust-worthy style.
Olivia chose an olive green one-piece that featured a very daring plunging neckline. She posed for the picture poolside wearing a couple of gold necklaces and aviator shades. (She also held onto a piece of watermelon, because Summer.) Have a look at her sexy one-piece and buy similar versions of the style if you're feeling inspired.
8 Stores That Do Modern Minimal Just as Well as Zara
There's no denying it: Zara is cool. With plenty of sleek, chic options, like suiting pieces and a variety of dress silhouettes every woman should own, it's easy to understand why so many women love shopping there. The store can also be counted on for superseasonal items like boho maxis and tassel-embellished sandals that are hard to find anywhere else at the same completely accessible price point. But just because you love a store doesn't mean you have to buy all of your clothes there. For those looking to diversify their wardrobes, here are eight more places to look for affordable, on-trend styles with the same sophisticated vibe you get at Zara.
These Ballet-Inspired Workout Clothes Will Make You Stand Out at the Barre
You don't need the pain of pointe shoes to feel like a ballerina. Dancewear is beautiful, and whether you're doing pliés at the barre or going for a run around the block, you can channel the likes of Misty Copeland with ballet-inspired workout clothes that don't necessarily include actual leotards and tights. Check out this activewear ahead - all of it will help you bring out your inner prima ballerina no matter what your workout may be.
After 9 Years of Marriage, Jay Z and Beyoncé Are Still Crazy in Love
Bey and Jay are well-known for their commitment to keeping their relationship private, it's true. That said, we've watched them grow together in the spotlight since they first tied the knot in 2008 after four years of dating and welcomed their daughter Blue Ivy Carter in 2012. As time has passed, we've seen plenty of glimpses of their love in the form of warm hugs, quick kisses, and steamy onstage performances. And now that they've expanded their family by two, we're sure there will be even more sweet moments to come. Keep reading to see their cutest PDA pictures now.
One Year After a Devastating Birth, a Miracle For One Family
Tears of joy are a common sight during childbirth, but never were they more precious than at the birth of sweet baby Harper last month. Almost a year to the day after losing baby Lily 34 minutes after her birth, Kristen Ward welcomed a healthy baby in the same hospital, with the same doctor and much of the same medical staff.
"When I was 18 weeks pregnant with Lily Margaret we found out she had a terminal illness and that she wouldn't live past birth," Kristen shared. "Our hearts were broken. Lily was the first girl on my husband's side of the family in over 50 years. We were given the option to terminate our pregnancy. After very little thought we said no. G-d's promise isn't always what we want to hear. G-d's promise wasn't a healthy baby but it was to be with us during the hard road that he made for us. We were ready for that drive. At 37 weeks Lily came and with so much heartache there was so much joy when we saw our baby girl's face. The doctor thought she passed away during birth because of how blue her face was, but to our surprise we were blessed with her for 34 minutes on this earth. It was a short time but it was some of the best 34 minutes of my life."
Four months later, Kristen learned that she was again pregnant and due on Lily's birthday. But at the 12-week ultrasound, they learned that there were likely to be complications with this pregnancy as well. An amniocentesis followed, and the couple, who had decided they'd carry this baby to term regardless of the diagnosis, were ecstatic to learn that they were not only going to have a healthy baby but a baby girl as well.
Kristen went into labor a few days before Thanksgiving. Unlike the last time, where Kristen had a difficult time pushing, baby Harper - all 8 pounds and 6 ounces of her - came out in just one push. Kristen was surrounded by the same doctor, many of the same staff, and the same photographer. But according to her photographer and friend, Pensacola-based Jordan Burch, it was her older son, Cooper, who was the happiest of all.
The family hadn't told their kindergarten son about Lily's condition until the day before her arrival, so as not to upset him. They told him that once she was born, she wouldn't come with them - she'd be going straight to heaven. In typical kindergarten form, Cooper went to school the next day and proudly told his teacher, "I got a new baby sister yesterday, and today she is in heaven!" This time, a year older, he is truly enjoying his little sister. "Kristen's face was precious, but her little boy's face said it all," Jordan says. "It was a joy to watch his entire face light up, just as it had with Lily."
Kristen couldn't agree more. "I have never seen a little boy wrapped around a baby like he is with his new baby sister," she told us. "I pinch myself at times because even though we have been through so much pain in less than a year, we have been blessed so much. We were blessed to be Lily's parents. She made us see real beauty and how to love unconditionally. She is our Angel."
A heavenly angel watching over this sweet family. Read on to see Jordan's touching photos of Lily - which she says was "the most cherished shoot I have ever had the honor to capture" - and of Harper and the happy family.
Jennifer Aniston's Dress Doesn't Scream "Look at Me," but Her Tiny Bag Does
Jennifer Aniston's go-to outfits for red carpets and dinner dates are usually black. This much we know, so it wasn't a surprise when we spotted her in an LBD. The star grabbed dinner with her husband and a few friends while wearing a ruffled wrap dress with peep-toe heels. Though her going-out outfit didn't exactly scream "look at me," her bag, on the other hand, definitely stood out.
It was a structured little box with an adjustable strap, which Jennifer wore across her body. Though the accessory was black to complement her outfit, the polished style didn't go unnoticed. It was a classic mini bag and one we hope to see Jennifer wear again. Scroll on for a closer look, then shop similar box bags of your own.
22 Behind-the-Scenes Moments on Game of Thrones That Will Change How You See Everyone
Game of Thrones might be the most intense show on TV, but it's not always so intense to make it. We imagine the show can be so wearing that you have to have fun behind the scenes, and that's exactly what it appears this close-knit cast does. If you're still reeling from the events of the incredible season six, then you've got to see some of these hilarious and awkward behind-the-scenes moments. From blooper reels to their social media accounts, see what crazy stuff goes on on the Game of Thrones set when they yell "Cut!"
30 Whole30 Recipes to Help You Survive Your Summer Diet
If you're attempting Whole30 this Summer, allow these seasonal recipes to help keep you on track. There's not a single no-no ingredient listed in any of these approved recipes (don't worry, I checked!). Though you might be saying bye to dairy, grains, legumes, and sugar, you know what you can't ever get enough of? Fresh Summer produce! These recipes star tomatoes, peppers, watermelon, and more veggies and fruits that put you one day closer to achieving tiger blood.
How Well Do The Queen and Camilla Actually Get Along?
Prince Charles's wife has been known in three different incarnations. As a young woman she was Camilla Shand, the popular debutante girlfriend of the 23-year-old prince, who went on to marry her ex-boyfriend Andrew Parker-Bowles. She was Camilla Parker-Bowles for 32 years, a wife and mother, and later the reviled mistress of her former beau Prince Charles. Now, for the past 12 years, she has been The Duchess of Cornwall; married at last to her prince, she has become a valued and well-loved member of the royal family. But how has her relationship with the queen changed over the years?
As a young woman, she had a warm relationship with the queen. Camilla's husband Andrew was the Queen Mother's godson, and the couple were often guests at Buckingham Palace. However, when Camilla and Charles started their affair and the queen heard about it, she was said to believe the way they had gone about it was irresponsible, and Camilla was banned from the palace. After Charles and Diana separated in 1992, the prince and Camilla were discreet in the continuation of their relationship, but with encouragement from the queen in 1997 they were about to go public - when Diana tragically died.
Over the next few years, as the family mended and focused on the future, Charles and Camilla quietly continued their romance. The queen believed they should go public rather than it seeming like they were hiding away, so they formalized their relationship by attending Camilla's sister's 50th birthday party together in 1999. Three years later, relations between the two women continued to improve as the queen included Camilla in her Golden Jubilee celebrations, and she then gave Charles and Camilla permission to marry in 2005. At their wedding reception she gave a warm and fond speech where she said, "My son is home and dry with the woman he loves."
In the 12 years since then, it has become clear that the queen values Camilla as a good match for her son and as a stable, resilient, and well-liked member of the family. As always, when it comes to the queen, actions speak louder than words - and there was no stronger show of her feelings toward her daughter-in-law than when she asked Camilla to sit beside her in her carriage at the Diamond Jubilee in 2012. The queen has also awarded Camilla two important honors: The Royal Family Order and the Grand Cross of the Victorian Order, both of which symbolize a very personal seal of approval from Her Majesty.
These Peeks of Jason Momoa as Aquaman Prove That He's the Perfect Casting Choice
In case his crazy Justice League workout regimen or the first look behind the scenes didn't convince you that Jason Momoa is perfect for the role of DC Comics' Aquaman (a trident-wielding half-god also known as Arthur Curry), we've rounded up all the peeks we've gotten at the highly anticipated Atlantean hero. Momoa's hulking stature, no-nonsense gaze, and ability to rock tattoos lend him the perfect look for embodying director Zack Snyder's new take on the beloved hero, and the actor's pioneering attitude and respect for the sea mean that he's inwardly suited for the role also.
Both interviews with Momoa and social media snaps about his new role reveal that he's ridiculously excited to pick up Aquaman's trident - especially because he'll be able to portray his Polynesian heritage in the role. Check out these incredible moments from the filming of Justice League, his appearance in the trailer, and Aquaman's brief cameo in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Once you see how powerful, passionate, and intimidating Momoa appears in the role, you'll barely be able to wait for the Justice League premiere! (If that is indeed the case, then here are all the shots you need of him from the first Justice League trailer.)
A New Device Might Stop People From Texting and Driving - but Does It Go Too Far?
Public service announcements are great for a shock factor but don't do much to deter texting while driving. And considering people could be doing more than just texting - like taking a Snapchat or posting to Instagram - we clearly need a much stricter policy in place. Enter the "Textalyzer," a device that could let police see if you were using your phone while driving after a car crash.
The Textalyzer, made by the company Cellebrite, is a device that plugs into your phone via a cord. After a crash, it could then show a police officer what apps were open on your phone and if you swiped or tapped. "For example, if it was a WhatsApp message or a call, it will indicate what the source was, the time stamp, and then what the direction of the communication was - so if it was an outgoing call versus an incoming call," Lee Papathanasiou, an engineer at the company, told NPR.
States like New York are pushing through a bill that would let police use the Textalyzer; New Jersey and Tennessee are considering a similar bill as well. Some people want it to pass so that texting while driving can be treated just as seriously as drunk driving. "It's dangerous, devastating, crippling, and it's a killer, and still socially acceptable," Candace Lightner, the founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, said to The New York Times.
While Cellebrite says the device can't download a phone's content, privacy advocates are concerned. "Distracted driving is a serious concern, but this bill gives police power to take and search our phones after almost every fender-bender," Rashida Richardson, legislative counsel for the New York Civil Liberties Union, told NPR.
According to the Department of Transportation, 3,196 fatal crashes in the US that happened in 2015 were due to distracted driving. Though the Textalyzer would prove useful (and would probably scare drivers into staying off their phones, knowing they could be subject to search after a crash), it begs an important question: why can't drivers just stay off their phones while driving?
If the bill in New York fails to pass, there might be another way to keep drivers off their phones. Apple recently announced a Do Not Disturb While Driving feature coming in iOS 11 that would prevent notifications coming through. Instead, anyone who calls or texts you would receive a message that you're currently driving. It would only be available on iPhones, but at least it's a start to curb this dangerous practice.
21 Simple Meal Prep Combinations Anyone Can Do
Although Instagram's #mealprep gives us plenty of inspiration, some of the meals on there are pretty complex to throw together. When you don't have the time or energy, meal prepping can seem like a pain. But it doesn't have to be. We found some quick and simple combinations that beginners and experts alike can master in minutes. The trick is to toss together a protein and carb or carb and veggies, mixing it up so you'll never get bored of your lunch or dinner. Read on for some healthy recipes we swear anyone can master tonight.
4 Ways to Stop Your Three-Year-Old From Begging
It's remarkable how much I knew about parenting before I had kids.
Placing my stack of Lean Cuisines on the grocery store conveyor belt I'd watch as moms and dads held up the line, desperately negotiating with their toddler over a candy bar or a pack of gum.
"Jeez – grow a pair," I'd think as I watched them bargain their way right into their child's sticky little palm. This 20,000 foot view offered me a pathetic picture of what little power some parents had over their children.
Then I became the parent of a 3-year-old and reality exposed itself to me like a mustached man in a pick up truck. We're tired. We're poor. We're huddled masses yearning to breathe free. We would sell our souls for five minutes of peace, however, nobody tells us that cutting corners to get this five minutes of peace comes with a price tag. A few wrong turns and quick fixes and suddenly you find yourself at the mercy of something that hits you mid-thigh.
You say no, she says pleeeeeeeeeease. You dig in, she throws herself on the floor. The post office closes in 15 minutes so you break, giving into whatever she's been pleading for. You promise to stick to your guns next time but each day the begging becomes more persistent and abrasive and you suddenly understand why some animals eat their young.
It's a vicious cycle - beg, negotiate, placate, repeat with more intensity. I was at my wits end and though my daughter had the stamina of a salmon returning home to spawn, I had access to the internet. Here's the best of what I've learned, as well as a couple of my own tricks.
1. Think before you speak.
Many times my instinct was to mindlessly say no, then upon further consideration I realized it would have been okay to walk the long way out of the mall and throw a coin in the fountain.
What I said: "Now, I'm not changing my mind because you're begging," I warned as we walked toward the fountain, "But because I changed my mind."
What she heard: "Good begging! Do it again next time and you can write your own check!"
When your child asks for something, take a breath and give it some thought before you spout off a knee jerk "no".
2. No means no.
Once it leaves your lips, there's no going back. Say it with me now: THERE. IS. NO. GOING. BACK. Prepare yourself for the worst of the worst in the beginning (I recommend having headphones and two fingers of Scotch on hand 24/7). Eventually she'll realize you're not going to budge and decide not to waste her time. Don't be alarmed if your toddler moves onto alternative methods of negotiation, like holding her breath, or facial prison tattoos. I promise it will get better, albeit a little at a time.
3. Bring it down to their level.
It's easy to tune out annoyances, especially when you're engrossed in cooking or other household chores. And by cooking and other household chores I mean scrolling sangria recipes on Pinterest or cyber stalking your ex-boyfriend's new wife. We're busy. Sometimes all it takes to re-route your kid is spending five seconds to show him that you hear his request and offer a simple explanation for your "no." So put down your phone, kneel onto his level, look deep into his soul and say, "We can't go to the water park today because I have to renew my driver's license." It helps to do this in your lowest and most intimidating (read: demonic) voice - bonus points if you can make your eyes glow red.
4. Set realistic consequences.
Obviously, we are only human, and yet sometimes you need to nip that begging business in the bud. Lay down the law - tell her that if she begs one more time there will be a consequence. And ain't nobody gonna believe you'll actually leave the zoo, including your 3-year-old. While you might think it's the ultimate threat and want to get her attention, she knows you parked in east Jesus and aren't going to abandon that 30 minute sunscreen sesh.
A few days ago we were at the pool and at 10am I heard a mom threaten her son with leaving the pool if he didn't stop splashing people. She was still robotically threatening that same thing four hours later. It's imperative the consequence is something you will follow through on. "If you don't stop begging, we are going to sit on the bench for ten minutes while your friends go visit the tigers," or, "One more 'please' and I'm going to shit in your Crocks." Get creative. Parenting is fun.
The bottom line: While it seems like your 3-year-old is being a huge turd, she is simply trying to figure out where your boundaries are. She'll bend you little by little and if you don't push back you'll eventually break. So keep your cool and stay strong. We don't negotiate with terrorists.
Tegan and Sara's Sara Quin Opens Up About the "Systemic Biases" LGBTQ Musicians Face
When the authentic experiences of LGBTQ people are shared with the world, it changes lives for the better. That's because when these stories are told correctly, they have the power to open minds and build more accepting communities, to prove that people have more in common with one another than we may realize.
While the entertainment industry has made recent strides toward providing more well-rounded representations of LGBTQ individuals in media, there is still so much progress left to be made. It seems the first step we should all take to help improve the state of LGBTQ representation in our TV, movies, and music is to get as informed as possible on the issue at hand.
To get started, we hosted GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis, Tegan and Sara's Sara Quin, and Angelica Ross, costar of Claws, for an honest conversation about how LGBTQ stories are told today and why all of us should feel deeply invested in the mission to improve LGBTQ representation in our art and culture. Ahead, check out our enlightening conversation in full, and then head over to GLAAD for more resources on what you can do to advance positive LGBTQ representation in media.
How Nina Dobrev Helped Chord Overstreet Get His Music on The Vampire Diaries Finale
Image Source: MEREDITH TRUAX
Chord Overstreet is well-known for his beloved role as Sam Evans - aka "Trouty Mouth" - on Glee, but now he's making a new name for himself by embarking on a solo music career. In 2015, he became the first artist to sign with Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas's label, Safehouse Records, and joined them for their Future Now Tour the following Summer. That August, he released his first single, "Homeland," but it's his song "Hold On" that has really put him on the map.
After appearing on The Vampire Diaries finale, the song blew up on the charts as people searched it on Shazaam and Spotify, something Chord in part owes to his friend and the show's star, Nina Dobrev. "I tend to send a lot of my music to my friends before I put it out to get their opinion on it because I always feel a little closer to it," he tells POPSUGAR. "And she responded and she was like, 'Hey, I just sent this to the creator of The Vampire Diaries. Can we put it on the show?' And I was like, 'Uh, yeah!'" Not only was it cool to have his song featured on such a prominent finale, but he was blown away by the response after. "It was cool because it was the first time something I had written, or had been creative on, reach so many people on a different level," he adds.
Image Source: Getty / Gary Miller
Although, his songwriting abilities shouldn't really come as a huge surprise - his father is country music singer and songwriter Paul Overstreet. In fact, Chord admits he caught the singing bug pretty early on when he was at one of his dad's shows. "The first show that I went to with my dad, I was like 3 years old and I couldn't stop staring at the stage and him performing. He would always introduce his kids at his concerts and there was one time when he was like, 'Hey, I want you guys to meet my son, Chord,' and I walked right past him out to the runway platform at the end of the stage and struck a guitar pose and everyone lost their minds."
He was 17 he when wrote his first song with his dad, and from that moment on, he couldn't put a guitar down. When Chord decided to pursue music as a career, he said his dad couldn't have been more supportive. Not only did he offer him encouragement, but he also offered him sound advice: always show up. "When you're working in a creative world, whether it's writing or performing, you never know who's going to be there, who it could affect, and what is going to come out of your creative process," Chord says. For example, he reveals that on one of the days his dad wasn't planning on going to work, he ended up writing Randy Travis's hit song "Forever and Ever, Amen," which would later earn him a Grammy for best country song.
Image Source: Everett Collection
Even though Chord is currently busy touring and making new music (he says his next song, "Carried Away," has some real beachy vibes), he still looks back on his Glee days fondly and is still close with many of his costars. In fact, Lea Michele and Darren Criss were among the many concert-goers at his recent show in LA.
And yes, just like us, he still gets nostalgic hearing "Don't Stop Believing." Not only did he wear some pretty crazy costumes and perform some pretty extravagant numbers over the years, but he says his time on the show taught him that you can never work too hard. "When you're young, you think you can get by," he says. "And then once you really see people come in who have been doing it for years and how hard they work, it really raises your level of intensity. To see Emmy winners and Tony winners work in front of you, it was the best experience."
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Are These the Names of Beyoncé and JAY-Z's Twins?
Beyoncé and JAY-Z have reportedly picked out names for their new twins, a baby girl and boy who were born on June 12. According to TMZ, the couple has named their two newborns Rumi and Sir Carter; the company run by Beyoncé and JAY owns the trademarks to their names and reportedly just filed legal documents to secure the rights to the names Rumi Carter and Sir Carter. The trademarks are for "fragrances, cosmetics, key chains, baby teething rings, strollers, mugs, water bottles, hair ribbons, playing cards, tote bags, sports balls and rattles and novelty items." The couple famously did the same thing with Blue Ivy's name after her birth in 2012.
Beyoncé and JAY were finally able to take their babies home this week after they had to stay in the hospital "under the lights" after their birth. It was reported that the babies were born prematurely and being treated for jaundice due to elevated bilirubin levels (the lights are designed to lower those levels). What do you think of the baby names?
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