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 7 septembre 2017
Meet Bill Skarsgard, the Guy About to Terrorize You as Pennywise
Image Source: Getty
Bill Skarsgard is the hot man behind the horrifying face of clown makeup in the remake of Stephen King's It, and we don't even feel weird about being attracted to him. Sure, he's playing one of the most iconic supernatural villains of all time, but Bill IRL seems kind of great. While you may have noticed him as Matthew in the Divergent film Allegiant, he's popped up all over the place. With the release of It finally upon us, get the scoop on what you need to know about the up-and-coming actor.
- He's Swedish, in case you couldn't tell. Bill was born in Vällingby, a suburban area outside of Stockholm, Sweden.
- He comes from a famous brood. Those icy looks run in the family; Bill is the younger brother of Alexander Skarsgard, famous for True Blood and Big Little Lies. Their father is Stellan Skarsgard, a longtime actor who you may recognize from Good Will Hunting, Thor, and the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Alexander was initially worried about Bill coming to LA in pursuit of being an actor, but Bill ended up booking a major role in a month and a half.
- In fact, there are more Skarsgards than you think. Bill has five full siblings (Alexander, Gustaf, Sam, Eija, and Valter) and two half-brothers, Ossian and Kolbjörn. That's a lot of Christmas gifts to buy.
- He's been in creepy stuff before. Though his performance as Pennywise will undoubtedly haunt us forever and ever, It isn't Bill's first foray into horror. He starred on all three seasons of Netflix's Hemlock Grove as Roman Godfrey. He knows his way around the supernatural. Then again, that show never had a killer clown.
Image Source: Everett Collection
- His breakthrough role was playing a man with Asperger's syndrome. Bill starred in the 2010 Swedish film Simple Simon as a young man with the developmental disorder. He was nominated for a Guldbagge Award, which is basically the equivalent of a Swedish Oscar.
- Bill had big dreams of traveling the Trans-Siberian railroad. In an interview with his father, Stellan inquired about why Bill chose to act after graduation rather than stick with his initial plan of traveling. "The main reason why I didn't really pursue acting early was because I thought people would say, 'Yeah OK, here comes another one, he's been fed on a silver plate of course he's an actor,'" Bill said. "You know as well as anybody else you don't just 'get to' play parts, you need to prove yourself."
- He got his driver's license at 26 years old. It wasn't until Bill had been in Canada and America for a few years that he thought to get a license.
24 Reactions to That Absolutely WTF Premiere of American Horror Story: Cult
Season seven of American Horror Story premiered on Tuesday night, and the first episode of Cult has us very shaken. While the episode follows two people with polar opposite reactions to the outcome of the 2016 presidential election, the heavy mix of terrifying clowns just brings it to a whole new level. We see Ally Mayfair-Richards (Sarah Paulson) spiral out of control after Donald Trump's victory. Her marriage to Ivy (Alison Pill) starts to unravel after Ally's debilitating phobias return due to her stress (she's afraid of clowns, small holes, bumps, blood, etc). On the other hand, Kai Anderson (Evan Peters) is thrilled with the new president and starts spreading the word that fear is the thing that will always win in the end.
While Ally tries to control her clown hallucinations for the sake of her and Ivy's son, Oz, he also starts to see them popping up in his neighborhood. Is Kai behind the group of murderous clowns? Is it all in Ally's head? And what the hell is the deal with Winter Anderson (Billie Lourde)? We presume she's Kai's sister, but she's an adamant Hillary Clinton supporter, so their whole dynamic is extremely weird. We're already terrified for episode two, but we need to discuss what has already gone down.
A Guide to Diana's Royal Titles
Princess Diana was many things to many people, but at her core, she was a devoted and adoring mother to two boys, Prince William and Prince Harry. The brothers, who were just 15 and 12 years old when their mother tragically passed away in August 1997, have been opening up more and more about the impact her death has had on them as grown men and members of the royal family, most recently in a televised documentary called Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy. Also looking back on Diana's life in the film is her younger brother, Charles the 9th Earl Spencer, who reflected on their childhood growing up at the family estate at Althorp, the same place where Diana's body is now buried. Contrary to popular belief, Diana wasn't exactly a commoner when she met and married Prince Charles. Here are the royal titles she held throughout her life.
- Lady Diana Spencer: Diana was born Diana Frances Spencer to John Spencer, Viscount Althorp and the 8th Lord Spencer, and Frances Roche. She was 7 years old when her parents divorced, and when her father inherited the title of Lord Spencer in 1975, she became known as Lady Diana Spencer. Her father moved the family to Althorp, the Spencer estate in Northampton, England. It was this title that earned Diana the nickname "Lady Di."
- Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales: During her marriage to Prince Charles, Diana held the HRH and was officially known as the Princess of Wales. Throughout this time, she also held the title of Duchess of Cornwall, which now belongs to Charles's current wife, Camilla.
- Diana, Princess of Wales: After her divorce from Prince Charles was finalized in August 1996, Queen Elizabeth II reportedly wanted to let Diana keep the style of her royal highness, but Charles was "adamant" that she give it up - instead, she was given the title Diana, Princess of Wales. The loss of the honorific separated Diana from the rest of the family in such a way that she had to curtsy to those who had it, including her own children. Prince William, then 14, is said to have comforted his mother after the loss of her title by saying, "Don't worry, Mummy, I will give it back to you one day when I am king." At the time of her death and to this day, she is officially known as Diana, Princess of Wales.
5 Shows to Watch If You Love Game of Thrones
We're officially in a Game of Thrones dry spell. While you're mourning the absence of your favorite series, consider diving into a new show that features a few of the same elements. Game of Thrones isn't the only series on TV that showcases characters battling with the undead - and each other. Chances are, you're already watching one or more of these shows, but you can always add another to your lineup!
5 Shows to Watch If You Love Game of Thrones
We're officially in a Game of Thrones dry spell. While you're mourning the absence of your favorite series, consider diving into a new show that features a few of the same elements. Game of Thrones isn't the only series on TV that showcases characters battling with the undead - and each other. Chances are, you're already watching one or more of these shows, but you can always add another to your lineup!
How to Explain Anxiety to People Who Insist You Have Nothing to Worry About
Anxiety can feel impossibly difficult to explain (if not outright impossible). Our friends at YourTango and blogger Carrie Budd shared a little insight as to how you can better communicate it.
Shall I count the ways?
Yesterday I was visiting a couple of friends in my hometown and a guy I hadn't seen in around 20 years was there. We were discussing different types of anxiety remedies and this guy gave me a somewhat baffled look and said, "What on Earth do you have to be anxious about?"
I know he meant well and I'm not writing this to call him to task.
The truth is, I get this question a lot.
In my experience, people ask this question as though my anxiety is something I chose and something I can control. Believe me, I understand why people might question my constant stream of anxious thoughts. I'm white (read: privileged), relatively young, intelligent, own my own home, have a decent career in the software industry and am not completely disgusting to look at, so I can see why, from the outside, it probably looks like I have my life together and enough advantages that I should have nothing to worry about.
Here's the thing . . .
Having my life together is actually a coping mechanism I've adopted in order to manage my anxiety.
What is anxiety exactly?
According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA):
"Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities. This ongoing worry and tension may be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as restlessness, feeling on edge or easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension or problems sleeping. Often the worries focus on everyday things such as job responsibilities, family health or minor matters such as chores, car repairs, or appointments."
There are many potential causes of anxiety disorders, most of which are not entirely understood yet by the medical community at large.
The Mayo Clinic identifies some of the known risk factors for developing an anxiety disorder as follows:
- Trauma. Children who endured abuse or trauma or witnessed traumatic events are at higher risk of developing an anxiety disorder at some point in life. Adults who experience a traumatic event also can develop anxiety disorders.
- Stress due to an illness. Having a health condition or serious illness can cause significant worry about issues such as your treatment and your future.
- Stress build-up. A big event or a buildup of smaller stressful life situations may trigger excessive anxiety - for example, a death in the family, work stress or ongoing worry about finances.
- Personality. People with certain personality types are more prone to anxiety disorders than others are.
- Other mental health disorders. People with other mental health disorders, such as depression, often also have an anxiety disorder.
- Having blood relatives with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders can run in families.
- Drugs or alcohol. Drug or alcohol use or abuse or withdrawal can cause or worsen anxiety.
In "The Role of Childhood Trauma in the Neurobiology of Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Preclinical and Clinical Studies," Charles Nemeroff and Christine Heim explain, "Compelling evidence from a variety of studies suggests that early life stress constitutes a major risk factor for the development and persistence of mental disorders."
There are many things we could define as "traumatic" and this varies greatly among individuals. Some examples of events that could have the potential to be traumatic in childhood are abuse, bullying, neglect, religious beliefs, and social influences.
While someone may look put together from the outside, they may be experiencing an inner dialogue shaped by past traumas that created the negative self-image with which they now identify.
So, for example, you may look at someone and think, "He/she really looks great!"
But that person's inner dialogue could still be repeating something they were told in the 9th grade, such as, "You're a poor, fat, ugly, and worthless pig with no value."
That is to say that the person you perceive someone to be may not be the same person they believe they are themselves, and it can take years of therapy, medications, and re-processing of old thought patterns to move past some of these traumas.
Of course, anxiety does have its advantages (if you want to call them that).
Recently one of my close friends and I were discussing how the two of us seem to be doing well in life compared to several of the people we hung out with when we were younger. Some of them have faced and/or are still facing addiction, extreme poverty, and other life complications while we are both educated non-addicts who pay our bills on time and remain gainfully employed.
Generally, things are pretty damn good for both of us - if you don't count the constant nagging worry and negative self-talk running on a constant loop in our through our anxiety-addled brains.
The positive byproduct we realized we both experience is the drive to do whatever we can at all times in order to improve our situations. Having our lives together is something we each feel we can take direct control over, whereas everything happening outside of ourselves feels so dangerously out of our control.
Being in a constant state of anticipating the worst is certainly no picnic.
My anxiety consistently reminds me of all of my weaknesses, faults, and flaws (real or perceived) to the point that ever finding a sense of contentment seems impossible. To me, having my shit together seems more like a farce than a fact, and I worry that at any minute someone will reveal the truth of who I really am.
And while I know that the thoughts racing through my heads aren't at all rational, they still infiltrate my sense of identity and make managing life a real struggle.
So, what do I have to be anxious about?
Everything. Literally everything.
I'm anxious about the way I look.
I know that logically, I am average looking and not the monstrous beast my inner-child would have me believe. Yet that fat, awkward girl in the back of my head still reminds me that the mean kids in school told me I was "fat and disgusting," and that therefore I must somehow still be "fat and disgusting."
I'm anxious that people won't like me.
Deep down I don't give a crap about whether or not people like me, yet I still feel a nagging sense of worry in regard to social situations.
I'm even anxious when people do like me.
I worry that maybe I somehow misled them into believing I'm someone I'm not.
I'm anxious that I'm going to lose my job.
I know that I'm seriously good at my job and that I'm well-liked at my place of employment, however, I am always on pins and needles wondering when I'm going to be revealed as the fraud I truly am and get canned.
I'm anxious that I'm not a "good enough" mother.
I worry constantly that my child is going to grow up completely screwed up and anxious because I am a crappy mother. Deep down I know that's not true and that I'm doing the best I can as a single parent, but I still worry about it.
I even get anxious because I am anxious.
And don't even get me started on my anxiety around dating.
I know I am a good catch. I can literally list off all of the reasons why I am a great catch. That being said, I'm genuinely surprised when anyone shows an ounce of romantic interest in me. My first reaction is almost always, "What is wrong with them, that they like me?" or "How did I unintentionally misrepresent myself in order to make them like me?"
My first thought is never that they might simply like me because of the many reasons I could list to explain why I'm a good catch.
This is, of course, assuming I even realize it when someone is interested in me in that way. I generally assume someone just wants to be my friend unless they directly state otherwise. Subtle hints are always lost on me.
I've been in several situations where I was crushing on a guy, only to have him eventually get pissed off at me and ask why I never gave him a chance, after which I'm like, "Ummm . . . Because you never told me you wanted one?"
Just tell me if you want to date me! It's not that difficult!
(Says the person who rarely has the courage to do so herself.)
If you suffer from anxiety like me, here are my thoughts regarding how you can respond when people ask you the same question.
1. Be conscious of the fact that people who don't have extreme bouts of anxiety don't understand what it's like.
They may think they do, but they just don't. Being anxious during a job interview or when speaking in front of people is in no way comparable to living with a true anxiety disorder.
2. View it as a teaching opportunity.
I'm not even remotely private about my experiences with anxiety. They're just not something I feel a need to hide or be ashamed of, so for me, it's simply a chance to explain what it is I go through every day by offering a general summary of what it feels like to live in a state of frequent rumination and the thought-processes that invade my brain all too often.
3. Have a standardized, go-to summary for those times when erring on the side of brevity seems best.
Detailed explanations make some people feel uncomfortable, so they're not the right option for every person or in every situation.
In my own most recent encounter with this question, I simply answered, "Sometimes I get overly paranoid about people and situations."
That's obviously an extreme oversimplification, but I didn't have the time or opportunity to go into details and I didn't feel it was appropriate or necessary to discuss my inner turmoil with a casual acquaintance.
4. Identify some great resources you can refer people to.
Remember that if discussing your anxiety puts you in danger of exacerbating your symptoms, there's no need for you to go into a thorough explanation even with a close friend or family member. If you don't feel comfortable answering such personal questions, you can direct people to particular sites you believe do a solid job representing your take on the matter, or suggest they do a thorough search for themselves on the matter. You might even find it beneficial be prepared with some specific articles you've checked out and bookmarked in advance that resonate with your experience.
I know I don't speak for everyone with anxiety. This is just my experience.
But I hope that by sharing it, I may help someone gain some insight and understanding into why anxious people are the way that we are.
Carrie Budd is a single mother with a passion for helping others, as well as the gifts of a sharp mind and raw sense of humor. Carrie discovered her knack for giving relationship advice while driving for Uber in a college town, of all things, and she finds great joy in empowering women to find the strength to forge ahead when all hope seems lost.
Check out more great stories from YourTango:
Lobke's 75-Pound Weight-Loss Secrets: Weight Watchers and Fitbit
After her "aha!" moment, Lobke Meulemeester from the UK realized she had to change her habits to live a healthier life. Starting at 233 pounds, she's used Weight Watchers and Fitbit to lose 75 - but she still lives a life of balance, sharing that even now she has days where she doesn't go to the gym and gets takeout ("takeaway," in UK terms!) instead. And while she always gets her steps in, she has a little chocolate every day.
Lobke: Before
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Lobke Meulemeester: I came to a point in my life where doing simple tasks like walking became difficult. Walking short distances gave me a backache; I got short of breath. I was borderline diabetic. I knew things had to change if I wanted to prolong my life. But it wasn't only physical - my mental state was also suffering. I had no confidence in myself and didn't care anymore. I didn't care what I looked like or what I wore.
I have always been a little overweight as a kid, even though I was quite active. And this continued through adulthood but escalated after my mother suddenly died back in October 2013. Dieting and losing weight got put back and I wasn't on my mind at all.
PS: Was there one program or method that you used?
LM: I had used Weight Watchers before so I thought I'd give it another go. I followed the program, combined with exercise and daily hour-long walks while being on lunch break at work. I got myself a Fitbit and tracked my daily steps. I enjoyed doing the challenges with people all over the world and it got me walking in all sorts of weather. Before Weight Watchers, I had tried a few different weight-loss programs like SlimFast, calorie-counting, and shakes. I had lost weight but always ended up regaining after going back to normal foods.
"I feel so much better and more alive."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
LM: I love to go to classes. I find it more fun than just using the cardio machines, although I do plow through it sometimes as I know that's what works for me.
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
LM: It depends. I try and go to the gym three times a week but I never set myself a target or set days; I go when I feel like it. Sometimes I have days where I can't face it and go home and have takeaway instead. It's all about balance!
Lobke: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
LM: I try and switch it up as much as I can. I go to different classes and do a day of HIIT cardio in between.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
LM: It was the confidence I gained while losing weight. Not only did I feel so much better and more alive, but I also started to love how I looked as a result. My skin was glowing, I was smiling more, and I started enjoying clothes shopping again.
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
LM: I use the Weight Watchers app but I also have a sheet I made in my kitchen at the moment where I track the days until I go on holiday which I cross off every day so I can keep motivated and on track until then. It's good to have goals to work toward.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
LM: I start my day with a good, filling protein breakfast that will keep me going until 11-ish. Lunch would also be a sandwich with a good amount of protein like chicken. I make sure I have plenty of fruit with me to snack on during the day, and I also make sure I have a little treat in the afternoon with a cup of coffee to keep me going. Being Belgian, that's mostly chocolate!
PS: Do you count calories? What's the range of calories you eat per day?
LM: No. I have tried using the MyFitnessPal app before and it's just not for me. I want something that's easy and doesn't require me to weigh everything I eat.
Lobke: Before and After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
LM: You will always find yogurts, pineapple, almond milk, eggs, precooked chicken, and gherkins [pickles] in my fridge.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
LM: I always have one day where I have a treat meal and dessert. I always choose what I want as I think it's important to listen to your cravings. I have learned from experience it doesn't end well if you ignore them. So one day, I will have something I've fancied all week and a nice dessert to follow, that way I feel refreshed for the week ahead.
"I've skipped the gym many times for takeaway and treats instead. It's life. Take one day at a time. Every day is a fresh start."
PS: How did the Fitbit help you on your journey?
LM: I got myself a Fitbit when I first started my fitness journey. It helped me get more steps in on a regular basis as I have an office job and it's actually astonishing to see how little steps you do in a day. So I started taking two 10-minute breaks and walk around the car park, as well as walking on my one-hour lunch every single day. On top of that, I would go to the gym three times a week. I did challenges with people all over the world and it can get quite competitive. Sometimes I ended up walking in the rain just so I could win the workweek hustle!
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
LM: Don't expect it to happen overnight. This will be a long process but one that will be totally worth it. It will become easier once you are a few weeks in. Don't get upset when you are having an off day; we all get those. I've skipped the gym many times for takeaway and treats instead. It's life. Take one day at a time. Every day is a fresh start. Just never stop, never give up. You will get there, one day at a time.
22 No-Cook Dinner Recipes When Nights Are Hot and You Need Something Light
Maybe it's hot out, maybe you're just feeling lazy; whatever the reason, sometimes you just want to skip using the oven or stove for dinner. You might need something a little lighter, more refreshing, and healthier, of course. For those times, look to these recipes to help you out. Not a single one requires you to heat anything up, yet all are still full of the nutrients your body needs to feel its best.
Women With Natural Hair Are Pumped About This Backless Baseball Cap Beyoncé Created
From the front, this red velvet hat looks like a typical, trendy baseball cap. But when anyone wearing it turns around, it's revealed to be backless. And this is a game changer for women with natural hair. It was created by Beyoncé's fashion label, Ivy Park, because of course. (Thank you, Bey!)
Here's why this hat is do damn awesome: Normally your curls would get squashed under a hat. The back of regular baseball caps are often too small to pull your ponytail through, especially if you have thick curls. This one makes it easy to pull your hair back with no struggle. And sure, you could wear a visor, but that doesn't keep the top of your head warm or protected from the sun. So this backless cap is genius. The velvet finish gives it a fashion-forward edge, since the '90s are back, yo.
People have a lot of feelings about this accessory - which seems to be a brand-new hat category, at least from a mass standpoint.
"As much as I love wearing baseball caps, I can never get my natural hair to fit through the back of one," said Aimee Simeon, POPSUGAR's social media strategist. "This hat is the solution for every natural gal (myself included) who has ever struggled to get her puff through a baseball cap. Now you can rock your puff and throw on your hat without a hassle!"
Other editors at our office agreed. "As someone with a LOT of thick hair who has always loved caps from afar, this hat is a gift," said Mekishana Pierre, POPSUGAR's associate social media strategist. "I can rock my puff with a cap on and keep it cute at last!"
Makeup.com's Assistant Editor Tembe Denton-Hurst added: "I'm obsessed with this hat because of the versatility and the fact that it's totally on trend right now. Between the velvet, the visor style, and the color, it's the perfect addition to my Fall wardrobe! Not to mention I can still rock my curls while wearing it."
People on Twitter are getting jazzed up, too. Twitter user @rocyonce shared a photo of the cap with the caption: "BEY THEN CHANGED THE GAME OMGNANDFNJRENWJ." It's been retweeted over 15K times and has received more than 30K "likes."
Twitter user Eva DuFerme (@EvaDuferme) said: "The woman knows her audience. Women of color needed stuff like this for years. No one else cared to design for us."
The only bummer is that the hat is not available yet. Though it doesn't say when the cap will be back in stock, we see it's coming soon to Topshop.com for just $35. Plus, you can sign up for the notification list, since it's likely to sell out fast.
Keep reading to see the hat from all angles, as well as some of our favorite Twitter reactions to this news!
Rashida Jones for Almay and Other Celebrity Beauty Campaigns of 2017
Scoring a beauty campaign usually means you "made it" as a celebrity, model, or influencer. And 2017 is already shaping up to be one of the best years when it comes to bigwig beauty endorsements. Read on to discover the ones we're already excited about!
7 Infamous Cults That Are Creepy as F*ck
I'll just start by saying that I'm obsessed with cults. Why am I obsessed with cults, you ask? Gosh, I wish I had an answer for you - they've just always fascinated me for some reason, maybe because I can't picture myself giving up everything I have to follow someone blindly. (Except for maybe Beyoncé; is the BeyHive a cult?) With the terrifying new season of American Horror Story: Cult upon us, I couldn't help but think about the famous real-life cults that have both intrigued and scared the sh*t out of me over the years. From the ones you probably know, like the Manson Family, to the ones you may not, here are seven sects that are crazy, dangerous, and creepy as f*ck.
12 Ways You Can Channel Barack Obama This Halloween, Because We Know You Miss Him
So, you've decided you want to pay homage to our former president, Barack Obama, for Halloween this year? Well, we don't blame you. Barack has been showing off his cooler side post-presidency, but he also had some pretty memorable looks when he was president. If you just need a break from Donald Trump's bullsh*t and want to focus on happier times, check out all the ways you can channel Barack this Halloween.
10 Places You've Seen Game of Thrones's Lena Headey Before
We love to hate her in Game of Thrones, and it seems that she was made for the role, but Cersei Lannister is definitely not Lena Headey's first big gig. The British actress has been gracing our screens since 1992, and while we are patiently waiting to see whether she gets to keep her crown or not, here's where you may have seen her before.
Evan Peters Is Actually Older Than You Probably Think
Evan Peters has played a wide range of characters on American Horror Story over the years, which means he's also been all over the age spectrum. A teenager? Yep. A loving husband? Yep. An experienced serial killer? Of course. Seeing that he's able to play each role so convincingly, his actual age is that much more surprising. He also has one of those faces that could easily pass for early 20s or mid-30s. But the actor was born on Jan. 20, 1987, which makes him 30 years old. That's four years older than his on-again, off-again fiancée, Emma Roberts. Even though he's been in the spotlight for more than a decade now, we can all agree that he's only gotten more handsome and talented over the years.
I Deleted Facebook From My Phone and It Changed My Life For the Better
A few weeks ago, I made the spontaneous decision to delete the Facebook and Instagram apps from my phone. I didn't delete my accounts, as I still use them for work, but I put my personal use of the apps to rest. I wasn't inspired by any article or study to do so; I just couldn't keep scrolling any longer. In the decade I've owned an iPhone, I noticed my habits have changed drastically - for the worse. I became addicted to my Facebook app, checking it the second I woke up (resulting in an hour of use), in every spare moment, and sometimes for hours after work. After I had overdone it with depressing news on FB, I'd turn to Instagram, scrolling until I'd become nauseated from the motion and images of friends and celebrities living their best lives, looking healthier and happier than me. So I quit cold turkey. I didn't know what would happen or how I'd feel, but I figured surely it would be better than the current state of affairs. Here's what I've noticed:
I don't miss it.
I wondered if I'd experience a withdrawal, but I haven't. I work in a media company and feared I'd miss major headlines if I didn't stay glued to social media. Truth is, I'm still in the know, no FB or Instagram on my phone needed. Better yet, I feel like my eyes and ears are more open to listening to what people on the streets are talking about and what issues my friends and family care about. I'm able to be engaged with but not engulfed by the news.
Every time I opened Instagram, I used to have this anxiety like I wasn't really living life if I didn't post a memory publicly on Instagram. Not spending hours looking at other people's lives has freed me up to actually live my own life without the worry that the memory is worthy of a photograph.
I feel so much more at peace.
Without social media, I noticed how much broader the real world is. My eyes are open to the actual world around me, not some algorithm that funnels news and pictures it knows I'll click on. This actually gives me a lot more peace and hope for humanity. Less news exposure means less paranoia. I don't have to compare or condemn myself. Instead, I can spend my energy offering love and support to those around me, which makes me feel happier rather than paralyzed by fear.
I'm spending spare time on healthy activities.
I recently learned transcendental meditation, and so now, instead of panicking about headlines the moment I wake up, I sit quietly for 20 minutes to ground myself for the day. I'm able to leave the house centered and aware of my breath rather than feeling like a frazzled shell of a person. I've started eating meals away from screens. I'm listening to positive and uplifting podcasts while I cook or clean my house (special shout-out to Tara Brach's mindfulness podcast). If I watch TV, it's all about comedies.
I've had such a positive experience getting rid of my social media apps, so I can't say I'm going to be compelled to redownload them anytime soon. I'm happily working on getting my zen on, being a kinder, more loving human, and counting down the days until the next election.
For more information on social media usage affecting mental health, take a look at Forbes's 6 Ways Social Media Affects Our Mental Health and Time's Why Instagram Is the Worst Social Media For Mental Health.
Here's When and How Much You Should Tip in Europe
When traveling, it can be hard to know whether you should tip or not. Customs change from one county to the other, and although most of us could make an educated guess, you could accidentally end up offending someone. To make things a bit easier, we've done some digging, and here's everything you should know about the etiquette of tipping in Europe.
- Albania: Tipping isn't required, but always appreciated. Most people tend to round the bill up in restaurants.
- Andorra and Spain: In Spain, people working in the hospitality industry tend to be full-time employees, and thus earn a salary. Tipping isn't expected, but feel free to give a euro or two at a restaurant if the service has been particularly good.
- Armenia: Tipping is relatively new in Armenia, but it's well established in Yerevan, the capital. For bigger bills, anything from 10 to 20 percent will be enough; for smaller bills, simply leave the change.
- Austria: In Austria, it usually is expected of tourists to at least round up their bill, or add around 10 percent. It is common to tip drivers and expected to tip bartenders. Know that bar customers pay their bills individually, which means that each individual will give their own tip.
- Azerbaijan: Tipping isn't very common in Azerbaijan, although taxi drivers might expect you to round up the fare.
- Belarus: Once again, tipping is quite unusual, but rounding up your bill or taxi fare will not go unnoticed.
- Belgium: You are under no obligation to tip in Belgium as a service charge will be included in your bill. However, feel free to leave a few euros on the table if the service was exceptional.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: Prices in Bosnia and Herzegovina are very low, so tipping will be appreciated. Tips are excepted in restaurants and bars (5 to 10 percent of the total), and other places will usually round up your fare.
- Bulgaria: Staff in Bulgaria is paid a minimum wage, and will thus be expecting you to tip - the average is 10 percent of the bill.
- Croatia: Once again, leaving a 10 percent gratuity will be expected, even if taxes were included in your bill.
- Cyprus: In Cyprus, tipping is pretty much up to you. Some places will include a service charge, but others might expect you to leave a couple of euros on the table.
- Czech Republic: Leaving a tip of at least 10 percent of the total is expected, especially in tourist hubs such as Prague and Cesky Krumlov.
- Denmark: Tipping won't be expected in Denmark, as service tends to be included in bills. That being said, it will be appreciated.
- Estonia: Tipping is fairly new to Estonia and generally won't be expected of you. If the service was good, you can however round up the bill or leave a gratuity of 5 or 10 percent.
- Finland: Tipping isn't really common in Finland, as service will generally be included in the bill. Most people tend to pay by card, so if you do want to tip, ask the waiter to type a different amount, or leave a bit of cash in the tipping jar.
- France and Monaco: Taxes generally are included in bills, and nobody will expect you to tip. If the service has been good, you can leave a euro or two (or more) on the table. Waiters earn slightly more than the minimum wage and usually share the tips at the end of the day.
- Georgia: Tipping isn't common in Georgia, but will be appreciated. It will also depend on the kind of hotel you are staying at - more luxurious ones might expect a gratuity.
- Germany: Service is always included in restaurant bills, but as explained on the website knigge.de, "you should tip, even if you are not obliged to." Rounding up should be enough.
- Greece: Some restaurants will round your bill up, so do check it out before you leave any gratuity. When tipping, leave it on the table or give it directly to the waiter. Keep in mind that some owners won't let the staff keep the tips.
- Hungary: It is common to tip between 10 and 15 percent of the total bill at sit-down restaurants - other places will have a tip jar - and taxis will expect a tip of about 5 to 10 percent.
- Iceland: In Iceland, tipping won't be expected, but, as in most countries, will be appreciated.
- Ireland and the UK: It is usually expected to leave a gratuity of 10 percent or more if the service was exceptionally good. However, service sometimes is included in the bill - in that case, don't feel obligated to tip any further.
- Italy, San Marino, and Vatican City: Tips are not expected as a service charge will be included in your bill, but seen as generous. Most people leave a few euros on the table, but rarely more than 10 percent of the total.
- Kosovo: In Kosovo, tipping won't be expected but will be appreciated.
- Latvia: Tipping isn't common or expected in Latvia, but you can leave up to 10 percent of the total if you enjoyed the service.
- Liechtenstein: A service charge will be included in your bills, so tipping won't be expected. However, feel free to tip extra if the service was good.
- Lithuania: Tipping won't be expected, but when at a restaurant, check to see if a service charge was added to the bill - if it's not the case, then tip 5 or 10 percent.
- Luxembourg: Tips will be expected by taxi drivers (about 10 percent), as well as by hotel staff if the service is good (a couple of euros per night). A 15 percent service charge will generally be added to your bill at restaurants and bars, and luxurious places will usually be expecting an additional tip of 10 percent.
- Macedonia: Assuming the service was good, a tip of 10 percent will be expected at restaurants. It is also common to tip taxi drivers or to at least round up the fare.
- Malta: A 10 percent service charge will often be included in hotel bills, and tipping the maid a couple of euros per night might be expected when staying at a nice hotel. Most people round the taxi fare up, and unless a service charge is added, you should tip restaurants and bars 5 to 10 percent of the final bill.
- Moldova: Tipping is becoming common in Moldova, and although a service charge will be included, it will be expected to add a gratuity of 5 to 10 percent.
- Montenegro: In Montenegro, tips are given to waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff.
- Netherlands: Service charges will be included in all your bills (taxi included), so no tipping will be expected.
- Norway: Tipping isn't required in Norway, but rounding up the bill is very much appreciated.
- Poland: In Poland, tipping taxi drivers (about 10 percent of the bill) will be expected. In restaurants, make sure that a service charge wasn't included, and if that wasn't the case, then you should leave a gratuity of 10 percent. One thing to know: "thank you" translates to "keep the change!"
- Portugal: Tipping is extremely common in Portugal, especially in touristy areas. Taxi drivers will be expecting you to round up to the nearest five euros, restaurants will be expecting a gratuity of 10 percent, and bars will be expecting a few euros.
- Romania: Tipping is so important in Romania that you even have to do it at the hospital before being seen by the doctor. So do leave a 10 percent gratuity at bars and restaurants, tip bell boys and maids, and round up taxi fares.
- Russia: Although Russians don't necessarily tip, you will be expected to do so. A gratuity of 10 to 15 percent is appropriate at bars and restaurants, and you should round your taxi fares up.
- Serbia: Tipping in Serbian restaurants isn't obligatory, but it will be appreciated. As for bars and taxis, leave a tip by simply rounding up the bill.
- Slovakia: Tipping in hotels or when using a taxi isn't expected in Slovakia. In bars and restaurants, it is common to round up the bill or leave a gratuity of 10 percent. When you do so, don't leave it on the table and hand it directly to the waiter. Also, make sure to say "thank you" after and not before tipping, as it could be believed that you're leaving all the change as a tip.
- Slovenia: tipping isn't common or expected in Slovenia, so don't feel the need to do so. Just know that a service charge will be included in your restaurant bill.
- Sweden: Service is almost always included in restaurants, but feel free to tip if you enjoyed the service. That being said, bar staff and taxi drivers will not be expecting you to tip - just to round up if you're paying by cash. As for hotel staff, they might look a bit shocked if you try to hand them some euros as that would imply that their living is dependent on your goodwill, and not on their qualifications.
- Switzerland: Service will be included in most of your bills, so don't worry too much about tipping. However, feel free to do so if you're feeling generous or if service has been particularly good.
- Turkey: In Turkey, you will be expected to tip 5 to 10 percent in bars, restaurants, and cafés. Taxi fares should also be rounded up.
- Ukraine: Tipping is becoming more common in Ukraine, but you won't need to go any higher than 5 or 10 percent. Make sure a service charge hasn't been included to your bill, and don't feel like you have to tip if the service wasn't good.
22 Homemade Poke Bowls That Are Way Easier Than Rolling Sushi
Poke bowls, a traditional Hawaiian seafood dish, have recently become mainstream, and it's easy to see why so many people love them. Not only are the vibrant bowls fun to look at, but they're also incredibly flavorful, filling, and easy to make (much easier than rolling sushi!). These 22 recipes prove that there's a poke bowl for everyone, whether you prefer tuna, salmon, tofu, or even vegetable "sushi." Get inspired to make your own poke bowl at home by bookmarking your favorite recipes ahead.
Who Are Ozzy's Real Parents on American Horror Story? Here's 1 Crazy Theory
The following contains spoilers for American Horror Story season seven.
The premiere of American Horror Story: Cult introduces us to a seemingly sweet and stable family whose lives are changed following the 2016 election. There's the level-headed Ivy Mayfair-Richards (Alison Pill) and her wife Ally (Sarah Paulson), who is grappling with her crippling anxiety and many phobias that have all been heightened since the unexpected election of Donald Trump. Ivy and Ally are also parents to a young son, Ozzy. One exchange in the premiere, however, raises doubts about Ozzy's biological parents.
Winter Anderson (Billie Lourd), the sister of crazed Trump fanatic Kai Anderson (Evan Peters), is hired as Ozzy's babysitter. Shortly thereafter, it's revealed that she probably has some ulterior motives. Her first night on the job, Winter questions Ozzy about who carried him as a baby. "I forgot. Maybe they never told me," Ozzy replies. When Winter presses him about his potential biological father, Ozzy says, "I'm supposed to say, 'Every family is special in their own way.'" Though Winter changes the subject, it's a telling exchange that the show will certainly revisit at a later time.
For now, however, fans are casting their predictions. On Reddit, one theory suggests that Ozzy's father could be this season's villain: Kai. OK - we know this would be an incredibly dark outcome, but this is American Horror Story, after all, and the theory is surprisingly plausible.
For starters, Ozzy does bear a resemblance to both Ivy and Kai. It's likely that Ivy carried Ozzy due to Ally's long-lasting mental health issues. There's the possibility that Kai was simply the sperm donor, and then there's a more sinister possibility. A popular theory currently floating around posits that Ivy is secretly working with Kai and the creepy clown squad - hence why she's always minimizing Ally's fears, trying to disprove her clown sightings, and pushing her to take her prescription medication. Taking it a step further, perhaps Ivy is also somehow in a romantic relationship with Kai and the two conceived naturally.
We know it sounds unbelievable, but we really can't stress enough how batsh*t crazy American Horror Story can get. In the meantime, we'll continue to look for clues regarding this impending reveal.
10 Places You've Seen Game of Thrones's Lena Headey Before
We love to hate her in Game of Thrones, and it seems that she was made for the role, but Cersei Lannister is definitely not Lena Headey's first big gig. The British actress has been gracing our screens since 1992, and while we are patiently waiting to see whether she gets to keep her crown or not, here's where you may have seen her before.
Ellen's Breastfeeding Gift to Pink Is Simultaneously Awful and Awesome
Pink knows that a lot of people have "strong opinions" on the ways others raise their own children, as she's dealt with the aftermath of those opinions on more than one occasion, but the singer shared with Ellen DeGeneres that she honestly doesn't understand why people care so much. On the second episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show's 15th season, Pink opened up about raising a strong and resilient daughter, breastfeeding her little "hot pocket," Jameson, and where her son got his name from.
Watch the video above to hear the pair's parenting comments and to see what Ellen decided would be the perfect gift for Pink's birthday this year (hint: it's not Ellen underwear, but it's pretty damn close).
This Trick Helped Me Finally Get Healthy and Lose Weight in My 50s
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Ericka McConnell
A couple of years ago, my doctor warned that my blood sugar levels had been consistently high for two consecutive years (one year is a possible anomaly, two years is a pattern). So high, she was worried that I was on the cusp of being prediabetic. I got the dreaded lecture, "You need to cut your sugar intake and lose some weight. You must exercise. Consistently."
I had prioritized family and work while relegating my self-care to nights in front of a TV . . . now I faced the consequences.
Back in the day, I used to be active: running, biking, swimming, Jazzercise (LOL), even kung fu (not kidding). But life - and TBH a touch of my own innate laziness - had sidetracked me. I had prioritized family and work while relegating my self-care to nights in front of a TV or cooking amazing desserts. I'm not abdicating; I made those choices, but now I faced the consequences.
Lucky for me, family and friends were ready to reintroduce me to a more active lifestyle. I started out slowly: walking, then hiking, and eventually working up to long-distance walks like half-marathons. I even joined a running group, San Diego's In Motion Fit, so I could improve my half-marathon walking speed.
My daughter Dominique, a POPSUGAR Fitness editor, consistently championed my journey and encouraged me to push boundaries. A recent conversation went something like this:
Me: "My blood sugar levels are improving, but I'm still not losing any weight."
Dominique: "You have to do cardio."
Me: "I'm walking and hiking."
Dominique: "Get your heart rate up. Try running with your group instead of walking."
Me: "I'll try."
I lied. I wasn't going to try.
I went to my Saturday group run with all my justifications lined up: a recent broken ankle, my chronic knee issues, an inability to keep up, it was too hot, it was too cold. You name it, I was prepared.
And that is when I accidentally ended up running.
Wait, you say . . . how does one "accidentally run"? Well, it's easy: I didn't want to be rude.
In Motion Fit groups runners together by goal and by speed. I was with the half-marathoners in the 15-minute-mile group. That morning, I began talking to some women I thought were fellow walkers as we started walking that week's scheduled six-mile course. A couple of minutes in, they all began to run. As I was midconversation, I ran to keep up. And then they stopped. Whew, I was so relieved . . . the running was just a fluke. We walked for another minute, and they began to run again. Then walk. Then run, again. "What madness is this?" I questioned.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Alicia Astorino
"Oh, this is the Galloway method," someone said, laughing. "We run for 45 seconds and then we walk for 45 seconds." "For how long?" I asked. "For six miles."
Well, as I said, I didn't want to be rude. And they weren't going that fast. I figured I could tolerate anything for 45 seconds. I would try it for one mile.
Six miles later, I was incredulous. I hadn't run in 30 years, and I had just run-walked-run SIX miles.
My health and fitness had just taken a turn for the better. I kept training with that group and I completed a half-marathon (13.1 miles) using the run-walk-run (RWR) method for the entire distance.
The method is as straightforward as its name implies: run - then walk, then run - for short, timed intervals, over any distance. I use the Nike+ app to track distance and the HIIT timer in the Seconds Pro app to time the intervals.
Recently, I ran into the person behind the RWR method at a Disney Half Marathon prerace expo; I noticed a long line of people waiting to shake hands with none other than Jeff Galloway, member of the 1972 US Olympic Team, former All American Collegiate athlete, author, and entrepreneur. I, too, stopped to thank him for changing my life . . . and he graciously told me I was doing it all wrong.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Alicia Astorino
Well, maybe not all wrong. Galloway shared a few things that I might consider, like changing the interval timing for the pace I was striving to hit (13:44 to break a three-hour half-marathon) to 0:15 run/0:15 walk or 0:30 run/0:30 walk. He also suggested the walking interval never be longer than 30 seconds because as the distance increases, it can get harder and more tiresome to start back up from the walk to the run.
I was further intrigued. I picked up his book The Run Walk Run Method ($20) and followed up with a call to find out what sparked him to create this training approach.
Galloway related that shortly after he opened a running store in the early '70s, he was asked to teach a running class. He soon realized that inserting walking breaks into the training was very beneficial to his beginners. At the end of the 10-week training, every participant was able to complete a 5K or 10K race. More importantly, he realized no one had suffered an injury, which was rather unusual in Galloway's running experience.
At the end of the 10-week training, every participant was able to complete a 5K or 10K race.
When I asked why he - a highly trained marathon athlete - continued to run this way, Galloway said, "I haven't had a running-related injury since 1978."
Galloway is adamant that the RWR method can help anyone run while reducing or eliminating running-related injuries but also relieve stress while improving mental acuity. He states that by focusing on the intervals, a person assumes cognitive control over their workout, allowing them to better control fatigue and avoid negative or detrimental thoughts that can derail training.
I'd have to concur. I've been using RWR for nearly a year and had no injuries - and my joints are on the older side. On a few hill-training days when my knees started to act up, I shortened the intervals to 0:15/0:15 and avoided pain and injury. I actually look forward to run days, and I'm no longer as exhausted (physically or mentally) at the end of distance runs.
My blood sugar levels are under control and I'm off my doctor's prediabetic radar. And I'm losing weight - about eight pounds so far - which has stayed off. I've completed two half-marathons this year, with one more scheduled wherein I hope to break that three-hour time.
A simple approach with amazing results is worth a shot, right? I know it's cliché, but if I can do it, anyone can do it.
You Will Love This Guide on How Tennis Scoring Works
If you've tuned in to The US Open to catch Venus Williams in action but are feeling a little confused by what's happening on the court, don't fret. Tennis scoring can seem complicated at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll feel like a seasoned fan. Here's a primer on scoring as the tournament heads toward the finals - so you can keep up with the matches!
The Framework
- Each tennis match is made up of two to three sets. To win a set, you must win at least six games.
- The games are scored starting at "love" (or zero) and go up to 40, but that's actually just four points. From love, the first point is 15, then 30, then 40, then game point, which wins the game.
Starting the Game
- To determine who serves first, you flip a coin or (more likely) spin a racket. Whoever wins the toss gets to decide one of four things: that she wants to serve first, that she wants to receive first, which side of the court she wants to start on (in which case, the opponent chooses who serves first), or that she wants to leave the choices up to her opponent.
- Whoever starts serving continues to serve until that game is over. Then the serve moves to the other player.
- You serve from behind the baseline, starting on the right-hand side of the court, anywhere between the singles sideline and the center mark on the court.
Scoring the Game
- Before serving, you should announce the score, with your score first, then your opponent's. So if you have zero and your opponent has 30, say "love-30."
- Every time you serve, you get two tries. The serve must go over the net, land in the service box opposite you, and bounce once before your opponent returns it.
- If it doesn't land in the service box, you take a second serve. If the second serve also misses, then you lose the point.
- If your serve grazes the net but still lands in the service box, the serve doesn't count, and you must take that serve over. This is called a "let."
- If your serve goes in and the opponent returns it, you continue hitting back and forth until someone hits the ball into the net, hits it out of bounds, or misses a shot. If that person is you, then your opponent gets a point. If it's your opponent who hits it into the net/hits it out of bounds/misses a shot, then you get the point.
- Whoever is serving continues serving until the score reaches 40, calling out the score before every serve.
- If the score is tied at 40 ("40-all"), that is "deuce," which is essentially another word for tie. To break the tie, someone must win two points in a row. If you are serving at deuce and you win the next point, then you say "my ad," which means "my advantage." If your opponent wins, it goes back to deuce, and someone again must win by two points in a row. Yes, this could go on forever.
- Once the game is over, the other person serves. After odd-numbered games (so after game one, game three, game five) you switch sides on the court.
Scoring a Set
- Before the first serve in each new game, whoever is serving announces the score in sets. Say your score first, then your opponent's. So if you won the first set, you would say "1-0."
- To complete a set, someone must win six games; the first person to win six games wins the set.
- However, as with "deuce," you must win a set by at least two games. So, if the score is 6-5, the person with 5 must win by two games. If the score ties at 6-6, you play a tiebreaker.
Scoring the Match
- The whole shebang is called a match. The match is determined by the best two out of three sets. So if you win two sets, you win. If you each win a set, then you play a third set to determine the winner.
How to DIY Your Own Princess Elena of Avalor Last-Minute Halloween Costume
Now that we finally have our very own Latina Disney princess, we're gearing up to bid farewell to our usual Jasmine and Pocahontas ensembles and channel our inner Elena of Avalor this Halloween. Whether you're going to a party or simply handing out candy, now's the perfect time to support the newest addition to the Disney royal family.
Spoiler: there is an official Elena costume, but it's more fun to get your DIY on, right? If you agree, keep scrolling for your supereasy guide to creating your very own Elena-approved street style look. Beauty wise, the deal is easy: all it takes is a scarlet dress, a touch of red lipstick, and a ponytail decorated with flowers.
Looking for more Halloween ideas? Check out some couple costume inspiration.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
65 transitional care beds will help smooth patients' move home, Winnipeg health officials say
The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority plans to open up 65 new transitional beds that will help hospital patients get back home sooner and improve long-term health outcomes, officials say.
30 of the Best Whole Foods Products You Can Order on Amazon Right Now
Sure, the initial news of Amazon purchasing Whole Foods upset me, but Amazon has really impressed me with the changes it's made so far, including instating significant price drops that have already gone into effect in stores, not to mention setting up an online store on Amazon.com. While the Whole Foods items available online are limited to some pantry and freezer goods from WF's generic 365 brand (i.e., not the complete line), I was still able to find many of my favorite staples, snacks, and meal starters. I also appreciate that Amazon includes the ingredient list for each of the products (unlike Instacart), which makes for a more seamless shopping experience. I imagine Amazon will continue to roll out more products in the weeks following, but for now, here's what I'm loving.
35+ Pixar Costumes to Make Your Halloween Bright and Terrific
Pixar movies make us cry, make us want to know little details about the company, and, around this time of year, make us want to dress up as the beloved animated characters for Halloween. Look ahead to get some inspiration for your costume - if any look too hard, try these DIY Pixar costumes instead or you can always try your hand at some Disney alternatives.
The Easy Way to Keep Your Jewelry From Tangling While Traveling or Moving
A trick I learned when I worked in retail has stuck with me ever since college. To keep jewelry from tangling in customers' shopping bags, we'd fold the accessories into tissue paper. I was so mind blown by this easy hack that I've kept tissue paper around my house from that day on.
Jewelry boxes and pouches might protect your jewelry, but they're not ideal for transporting because your necklaces will jumble along the way. Wrapping them with tissue paper is such a fast and easy way to prevent tangling while traveling or even moving, especially because it requires minimal space. See how I do it with step-by-step instructions ahead!
9 Cozy Ikea Hacks That Are Perfect For Fall
We may be reluctant to say goodbye to Summer, but soon those crisp, cool Fall days will be upon us. With the exception of pumpkin-spice-flavored everything, one of the best parts about Fall is making some small updates and tweaks to your home so you can really feel the Autumn vibes! Once you've gone through our smart checklist for getting your home ready for Fall, the decorating fun begins. Mood-setting candleholders, fuzzy throw blankets, and rustic accent pieces are just some of the amazing Ikea hacks that will help you transition your space from Summer to Fall.
The Kitchen in Rachael Ray's Hampton's House Isn't What We Expected, but It Makes Perfect Sense
Rachael Ray's bubbly yet down-to-earth personality can be seen in every inch of her gracious Southampton's home. The cooking star just listed her three-bedroom, five-bathroom French Normandy-style abode for a cool $4.9 million. The chic 3,000-square-foot property sits on a whopping 6.1 acres located adjacent to the meticulously maintained courses of the elite Southampton Golf Club located directly next door.
In a video tour of the house, Aria Design consultant Michael S. Murray says the home is "meant for you to enjoy. It's unpretentious. It's beautifully crafted, but it's really about the people who use it." In this light, it makes sense that, while the home spares no expense, there's nothing precious about it. Even the light and airy kitchen, Rachael's domain, is highly functional without being over the top. It's more attuned to fixing choup and sammies than multicourse dinners. The bedrooms are tastefully appointed, the gunite pool is simple yet beautiful, and the "writing shed" is cozy. In other words, this house defines understated elegance.
It's being represented by Martha P. Gundersen of Brown Harris Stevens. Tour every inch of the yummy property for yourself in the video above.
We Love That This Couple Shot Their Engagement Photos at the Harvard Art Museum
Whitney and Brian wanted to do something a little different for their engagement shoot and decided to do it in three separate parts. Over the course of an entire day, they kicked off their session in Boston with a more traditional session for family, while part two took place at the Harvard Art Museum. Whitney had a beautiful white gown on for this one, and the two looked at art and danced in the museum's stunning entryway. Finally, the last of the shoot was taken at night, where their photographer captured long-exposure shots. They turned out beautifully!
See the photos ahead.
You'll Giggle For Days When You See Who's President on This Letter From the White House
My British-born husband takes his oath of citizenship today. In the packet for new Americans, the welcome letter from POTUS is from Obama. 😂 http://pic.twitter.com/O56cMj0hhx
- Aisha Sultan (@AishaS) July 14, 2017
STLtoday columnist Aisha Sultan gave many people something to smile about when she shared photos of her British husband's citizenship welcome letter. The now-viral photo features an official White House letterhead at the top and shows former president Barack Obama as the current POTUS instead of President Trump. Obama's signature is stamped at the bottom of the heartwarming welcoming letter, which talks about embracing incoming immigrants as part of the American family, a stark contrast to the anti-immigration rhetoric Trump has long stood for. The irony of it all was not lost on those who viewed it.
omg they haven't updated that yet? https://t.co/G4hV5bWAOU
- Andrew Losowsky (@losowsky) July 14, 2017
This is ... strange ... https://t.co/K4pKdIIG3z
- Arwa Gunja (@Arwa_Gunja) July 14, 2017
Most people were generally excited about the possibility of living in an alternate universe where Obama is still our president.
Congrats Aisha. My UK-born husband became a citizen under Obama, and looking back, we took it for granted.
- Amanda Kolson Hurley (@amandakhurley) July 15, 2017
Congratulations! You are very lucky.
- Joyce Carol Oates (@JoyceCarolOates) July 15, 2017
Amazing. https://t.co/1mGI8EwF36
- Alex Gervasi (@AlexontheMic) July 15, 2017
Perfect http://pic.twitter.com/jbCA1Mka0m
- kelly oxford (@kellyoxford) July 15, 2017
Actually I hope they keep it that way, the only welcome letter that matters: it's the one I received when I became citizen. Respect, O! 🙌 https://t.co/fyWHITjcGW
- FrancescoFrancavilla (@f_francavilla) July 15, 2017
http://pic.twitter.com/JTRyI7vW6c
- kim (@kim) July 14, 2017
While it's unclear why the change from Obama to Trump hasn't yet been made, it is clear that many people are going to enjoy it while it lasts.
Prepare to Feel #Blessed by Stained-Glass Makeup, a New Beauty Trend
When we saw James Charles's positively radiant stained-glass makeup look on Instagram, we almost let out a "Hallelujah." The saintly trend, which has been quietly simmering among makeup junkies' pages over the Summer, has finally hit its peak with James's gorgeous interpretation.
When we see this style, we can't help but think of sky-high European cathedrals. Coincidentally, that architecture is the same exact thing that Kat Von D says inspired her upcoming Saint + Sinner Eye Shadow Palette. So we're calling it now: this Fall, makeup is going to look "holy" as f*ck.
We're obsessed with the mosaic-like pattern, because it looks like an elevated take on the metallic trend. It should come as no surprise that people are losing their minds over stained-glass makeup. As one commenter put it, the ethereal style leaves James "looking like a damn goddess shining through the windows of a cathedral." That description is pretty much every aesthetic we've ever wanted to embody, so needless to say, we're pretty frickin' excited to try this trend ourselves.
Scroll on for the best Instagram interpretations of this look, from lip art to full face.
How George Clooney's Thoughts on Marriage and Fatherhood Changed Once He Met Amal
Image Source: Getty / Mike Coppola
George Clooney may now be happily married to wife Amal and a father to two babies, but long before the human rights lawyer came along, George was one of Hollywood's hottest bachelors. The actor swore he would never get married again (he was married to actress Talia Balsam from 1989 to 1993) and even said he didn't "have that gene that people have to replicate." Well, a whole lot has definitely changed since then. Take a walk down memory lane and look back at George's most memorable quotes about marriage and fatherhood.
Image Source: Getty / Sean Gallup
Before Meeting Amal
- On romantic relationships: "I've had some absolutely great relationships and some not so great relationships. I've been in some relationships where I've felt terribly alone. Just because you're with someone it doesn't mean you're incredibly happy and complete."
- On why he never used to talk about marriage: "I don't talk about it because I don't think about it. I don't ever question other peoples' versions of how they live their lives or what they do."
- On why he wasn't married with children: "I haven't had aspirations in that way, ever. I was married in 1989. I wasn't very good at it. I was quoted as saying I'll never get married again pretty much right after I got divorced and then I've never talked about it since."
- On vowing to never get married again: "Marriage? Who knows? I've been married. It's not something I'm looking out for. Things could always change, but it's not a consideration right now. The truth is I'm really happy. The things that are a drag in my life are so outweighed by the things that are great. I have families that I spend my days with, and friends I spend my days with, and people I care very much about. I get to do what almost no one gets to do. My life's really good."
- On having kids: "I think it's the most responsible thing you can do, to have kids. It's not something to be taken lightly. I don't have that gene that people have to replicate. But everything in my life has changed over time."
Image Source: Getty / Axelle/Bauer-Griffin
After Meeting Amal
- On finding "the one": "I have someone who I can talk to about anything and someone who I care more about than I've cared about anybody."
- On his marriage proposal: "I knew fairly quickly that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with Amal (but) we had never talked about it so there wasn't like a 'Hey, maybe we should get married.' Literally, I dropped it on her. And she just kept saying, 'Oh my god,' and 'Wow' – completely unexpected. We just sat there and finally I said, 'Listen, I'm 52 and I've been on my knee now for about 28 minutes, so I gotta get an answer out of this or I'm going to throw a hip out. I might not be able to stand back up.'"
- On being called a power couple: "I don't think of us as a power couple, because I don't know what that means. I would think a power couple is like, Bill and Hillary seems to be a power couple. I think we're just a couple with great interest in the human condition. I don't think of that as particularly powerful; I just think of it as our responsibility as people on the planet."
- On Amal's pregnancy: "We are really happy and really excited. It's going to be an adventure. We've sort of embraced it all . . . with arms wide open."
- On his and Amal's plan once their twins are born: "We have the chance to live between three countries: Italy, America, and England. But as soon as the children go to school, it'll be necessary to choose where to settle. In the meantime, we will continue to move according to our respective schedules."
- On how his life has changed since becoming a dad: "Right now my job is changing diapers and walking them [twins Alexander and Ella] around a little bit. I really didn't think at 56 that I would be the parent of twins. Don't make plans. You always have to just enjoy the ride. Suddenly, you're responsible for other people, which is terrifying."
- On how his getting-ready routine has also changed: "I just have to clean the barf off of my tux. It used to be my barf, but now it's the twins' barf. So it all works out."
- On why he and Amal chose "normal" names for their twins: "[We] didn't want to have really dumb names. We figured these kids are going to be looked at a lot and watched and [have their] every move sort of judged, and we wanted them to at least have a break with the names."
- On Alexander and Ella's personalities: "[Alexander] is a thug already. He's a moose! Literally, he just sits and he eats. [Ella's] very elegant, and all eyes. She looks like Amal, thank god."
Chance the Rapper, the Best Human, Is Starting an Award Show Dedicated to Teachers
Chance the Rapper may be one of the biggest musicians in the game right now, but he's using his star power in the best possible ways. The "No Problem" singer, who has been vocal about giving back to the public, especially in his hometown of Chicago, is now starting a new award show called The Twilight Awards, which he announced this week at the SocialWorks Summit. Instead of focusing on an actor's performance or a hit song, the show will recognize "teachers, parents, principals, and students that convey leadership" in Chicago-area schools. And since Chance is a celebrity and all, he also revealed the show will feature some great performances and guest appearances and will be hosted by The Late Late Show's James Corden.
In addition to this amazing award show, Chance, who is dad to daughter Kensli, also revealed his plans to expand his New Chance Fund, which supports arts and literature education, including an amazing $100,000 donation to another slew of CPS schools. In recent months, the rapper has donated 30,000 backpacks to Chicago children and also raised a whopping $2.2 million for 20 Chicago public schools. To say he's amazing is an understatement.
The Love in Sterling K. Brown's Family Photos Will Wrap Around You Like a Warm Blanket
Sterling K. Brown is one of our biggest Hollywood crushes, and it's not just because he's very, very good-looking. The actor, who has made a name for himself with showstopping performances in American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson and This Is Us, has been married to his college sweetheart, Ryan Michelle Bathe, for nine years. After meeting and falling in love at Stanford University (and overcoming a few breakups and makeups), they tied the knot in June 2007 and are now parents to two adorable sons. While we're very obsessed with Sterling's current onscreen family in This Is Us, which Ryan also guest stars on, it's his real-life moments that really make us melt.
Kelly Clarkson's "Love So Soft" Video Is the Most Gorgeous Thing You'll See All Week
Do you hear that? It's the sound of thousands of people sobbing with happiness (but especially me) that Kelly Clarkson has returned with a new single. Oh, and not only a single, but also an incredibly glam music video to go along with it. "Love So Soft" is her debut single from Meaning Of Life, her first with Atlantic Records after signing a deal with them back in 2016. According to Clarkson herself, this will be her best album yet, and if this song is any indication, I'm inclined to believe her.
The Sweet, Somber Significance of Princess Diana's Final Resting Place
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Seven days after Princess Diana's tragic death in August 1997, she was honored with a public funeral that remains one of the most watched events in history. Millions of people crowded the streets of London to follow the route of Diana's coffin from Kensington Palace along Hyde Park to St. James's Palace, passing Buckingham Palace and observing her memory in a ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Later that day, Diana was taken to her final resting place at her childhood home, the Spencer estate in Althorp.
Image Source: Getty / Barry King
Though many attended her funeral, the Princess of Wales was buried privately; the only people present were a close friend, her mother and siblings, Prince Charles, William, Harry, and a clergyman. Diana wore a black dress by Catherine Walker and held on to a rosary given to her by Mother Teresa (who, sadly, died the same week as Diana). She was laid to rest on a small island in the middle of a lake at Althorp. The family estate is located about 70 miles from London in the town of Northampton, UK, and spans nearly 13,000 acres. Built in 1508, then-Lady Diana Spencer moved to the lavish home when her father, John Spencer, inherited the earl title in 1975. When he passed in 1992, Diana's brother Charles took the title as well as operation over the estate.
Image Source: Getty / Barry King
After her death, Earl Spencer decided that her gravesite was better off at Althorp than at their family vault in the local church, because it could be more easily cared for and, most importantly, offered better privacy for William and Harry to visit. Before his wedding to Kate Middleton in April 2011, William is said to have brought Kate to visit Diana's gravesite, where they reportedly laid flowers. The island where Diana's grave sits is accessed by a path of 36 trees - one for every year of her life - and black swans and white roses float in the water. It also holds a tall monument dedicated to the princess, as well as a temple for visitors to pay their respects. On either side of the template is a tablet; one is engraved with the tribute Prince Charles gave at her funeral, and the other has quotes from Diana about her love and commitment to charity work. In 2015, Earl Spencer and his wife, Karen, Countess Spencer, set forth a huge revamp of the property where Diana is buried - the first in 350 years. It is scheduled to be done just before the 20th anniversary of her death in August 2017.
Breaking the cycle: How northern Saskatchewan is rallying to end suicide
Holly Toulejour, a social worker from the Dene High School in La Loche, Sask. is drawing attention to a suicide problem she says has long been present in her community, only now she believes it is getting worse.
Care concerns raised at Alberta seniors' facility plagued by assault charges
Concerns about patient safety are being raised at a long-term care center in Killam where two staff members were charged with the assault of an 88-year-old woman.
This Secret Waterfall in Bali Is So Beautiful, It Will Take Your Breath Away
Are you brave enough to take the leap down a rushing waterfall? If you are (or if you simply want to see a breathtaking sight), then add the Kroya waterfall in Bali to your bucket list. The secret destination is near the Aling-Aling falls, close to Sambangan village. After a short trek, travelers can jump into the water and enjoy the lagoon at the bottom of the falls. Look ahead to see beautiful photos of the special spot.
Dreams Do Come True! Forever 21 Is Selling Selena Graphic Tees
OK, let's take a minute to revel in the fact that Selena graphic tees are not only a thing, but they are now being sold at Forever 21. Yes, that is correct, ladies and gentleman, you can get your hands on two different short-sleeved tees, a long-sleeved one, and a fleece hoodie, all for under $30 so you won't be breaking the bank.
When Selena was alive, she always said she wanted to start her own clothing line and even had boutiques throughout Texas, so we can only imagine that she would love to see her name and face at the fast-fashion store. We are running, not walking, to get our hands on all of these.
Articles
