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 2 novembre 2017
24 Bobs That Will Convince You It's Finally Time to Make the Chop
We're big fans of the transformative powers of a short hairstyle, and if you still haven't been convinced to chop your hair short (or maybe just invest in a bob wig), let these Instagram looks be your inspiration.
Whether you like the sharp lines of an asymmetric bob with bangs, or the more mussed-up look of a layered, shoulder-skimming style, there are looks to bookmark for your next salon appointment.
This Makeup Artist Gives Your Favorite Disney Characters a Twisted Makeover
While Disney princesses and characters have been a Halloween staple for quite some time, their gory iterations have also become popularized as of late. Irish makeup artist Natalie Costello is adding to the trend with her own twisted Disney-inspired looks that can give you the Halloween inspiration you may need . . . so long as you're OK with having your favorite characters tainted.
On her Instagram, Natalie frequently shares her transformations that include characters from The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and more. Unsurprisingly, Natalie also works at Urban Decay, which is evident in her impressive skills. Look ahead for some of her freakiest transformations yet.
66 Tried-and-Tested Tips For a Frugal Life
It's easy to say that you want to save more money. It's harder to actually implement that. Living a frugal life calls for a lifestyle change and a conscious awareness of how you're spending and saving. It also requires a certain know-how. Learn these tried-and-tested frugal tips from fellow scrimpers cited in Reddit's subsection for frugal people.
You'll Never Have to Worry About Lost Luggage Again Thanks to This Item Tracker
There's a strong case against checking in your luggage: it can get damaged, it's inconvenient, and worst of all, it can get lost. But if you're a perpetual overpacker or your travels require more than a carry-on, you can't always avoid checking in. It's a definite risk, but there is a solution that may help put your mind at ease, at least in terms of knowing where your bags are at all times. Highly favorited luggage brand Away and item tracker Tile teamed up to create a luggage tag ($30) that every traveler needs.
The 100 percent leather tag features an opening made to fit the Tile Slim, which pairs with your smart phone via Bluetooth. It's basically like Find My iPhone for your things. You can locate your suitcase on the Tile app from any of your devices, which will show you where it's at down to the street and city.
You can also follow it on the app's map like below.
Though it doesn't prevent the airline from losing your luggage, you'll at least have peace of mind and you can help them retrieve it faster knowing exactly where it's at. If your suitcase is beyond the Tile's Bluetooth range, you can also select "Notify When Found" in the app to be automatically notified of its most recent location when any Tile user with a phone or tablet simply passes by your missing item. It's pretty awesome.
I've purchased the smaller Tile Mate for my boyfriend - who's known to lose his keys, phone, and wallet often - before and it's been an absolute lifesaver. You can hook the Tile Mate onto your keychain or stick a Slim onto any of your devices, or, like its name suggests, the Slim is sleek enough to fit in your wallet if you have no travel use for it. Clicking the center of your Tile will also call your phone (even when it's on silent) in the reverse situation. Anything you want to keep your eye on, whether it's a child/drunk friend or a remote, can be tracked!
25 Holiday-Scented Beauty Products That Will Make You Hungry Just Reading This
It's the moment all basic ladies have been waiting for: the moment we put away the tropical scents and dive head first into Fall (also known as the gateway to all things holiday). No amount of pumpkin spice proves too much as we attempt to turn our own houses into apple- and plum-scented enchanted forests.
We're getting intoxicated just writing about it, which is why we're excited to present to you a comprehensive gallery of all the holiday-scented hair, skin, and body products we could get our hands on.
From cider-drunk hand soaps to creamy, vanilla-drenched body lotions (and plenty of pine- and spruce-trimmed candles in between), read on for 25 products that will support your festive spirit from Fall harvest to New Year's, and sneak peek more holiday 2017 beauty offerings here.
22 Airport Hacks to Remember Before Your Next Flight
Traveling is always a fun and exciting experience, but getting through the airport can be a struggle. If it happens to be an unlucky day, you'll get stuck with long lines, rude airport security officials, or delayed flights. Luckily with just a little bit of research, there are many ways you can make your journey faster and more comfortable. We rounded up all the tips and tricks so you don't have to! Learn to navigate airports like a pro with the advice here. You'll be surprised how much time and money you end up saving.
25 Fall Makeup Ideas You Need to Steal NOW From Instagram
Enjoy your "Summer glow," beauty queens! Because before you know it, there will be a #PSL in your vampy manicured nails, and yes, Fall will be here. Listen, we know why you love Fall - the matte skin, the humidity-free hair, cozy candles, and brooding makeup colors that speak to your dark soul. So why not pull out a dark lip color this month or try out an autumnal eye makeup look? To help you get inspired, we rounded up the fiercest Fall beauty looks, already trending on Instagram!
The Real Girl's Guide to Every Gorgeous Braid From Pinterest
Grab your teasing combs and your dry shampoo - Braid 101 is in session. There are so many different plaits out there, and we admit we can only do half of them. Browsing our Instagram feeds, we often run into two emotions: total braid envy and plait perplexity.
Seriously, just looking at some of these styles makes our brains hurt (over then under, or under then over?). It can be as simple as a basic dutch version or as complex as a five-strand plait. No wonder "braids" is one of the top searched topics on the Internet. Everyone wants to master the new trendy style before a new one is invented. So, we've broken down every plait (with gorgeous real-girl pictures and tutorials) to inspire you to go back to beauty school.
Amanda's Secret to Losing Over 100 Pounds Wasn't a Diet
Our next Before & After story comes from Amanda Fraijo-Tobin, who blogs about life after losing 130 pounds on her blog Friday Love Song, which is part of our POPSUGAR Select Fitness network. Below, she shares how she lost the weight and how she keeps it off.
Amanda: Before
Growing up, I wasn't severely overweight - sure, I had a pudgy stage, but a lot of people did! My weight wasn't something I thought much about being a kid (as it shouldn't be). My parents had good intentions, like most, but we certainly did not grow up eating very healthy. Snacks, soda, meals prepared without nutritional aspects considered. Soda became a very bad habit for me, especially as I got into my teens and didn't have anyone stopping me from drinking so many.
Fast-forward to high school - like most high school girls, I thought I was fat. Even though, in retrospect, I clearly wasn't. I didn't let it consume my life, though I was a little on the chubby side (so I thought) and I was OK with that. Looking back, I think senior year is when the trouble began for me. Stress, changes in my life, poor eating, and not exercising (hello, gym-class-not-required-after-ninth-grade!) led me to pack on some weight. Again, I already felt like a "fat girl," so I kept going with the mind-set of "This is me - this is who I am." I was married young, had my first child at 20, and of course, packed on more weight. Divorced, remarried, and two more babies later - more weight.
My weight wasn't something I paid attention to. I never weighed myself. The only time anyone took my weight was maybe once or twice a year when I had a doctor's visit - and even then, I didn't think much about it. This is me - this is who I am . . .
Amanda: Before
My husband is a type 2 diabetic. He had already been on tons of medications for several years to control his blood sugar and other problems associated with the disease. He got to the point of having to add insulin injections to his enormous list of meds. His doctor kept urging him to consider weight-loss surgery, telling him that, if he lost some weight, there was a possibility he may be able to stop taking some of his medications. This seemed like a great solution to my husband - I, on the other hand, disagreed. I told him repeatedly, this wasn't the solution. If you don't break bad habits that got you to a certain point, you could not possibly make a real change.
Insert light bulb moment. Pot calling kettle black. Even though it wasn't something I monitored, I was surely at the heaviest point of my life. I was waking up to get my son to school and collapsing on the couch for a nap once he was off. I was having random pains in my foot. I felt gross. I knew I needed to start making changes. I needed to make changes for myself, but also for my husband, for my kids. I needed to be a better example. This wasn't about vanity. This was about life, making a better life for myself and my family.
I knew this wasn't going to be easy. I had packed on the weight over the course of 10 years. I knew it was going to take some time to take it back off. I knew there would be times I would feel like quitting. But from the start, I adopted a "Today I will do what I can" kind of attitude. This went for exercise as well as eating habits. I knew all my bad eating habits were not going to disappear overnight. Slowly but surely, I made mental lists of things I was doing that were awful for my body and thought of ways to change them. Drink more water, read labels of items I was eating, etc. I had been having such severe pains in my heel that some days I could not even walk on it. Some days, I may not get through an entire workout like I wanted to - that's OK. Today I will do what I can.
Amanda: After
I chose not to be vocal about my weight-loss journey from the start. I didn't mention it to friends. My husband and my father were about the only people who knew what I was trying to accomplish. There were many days of whining on my part to my husband about aches and pains from making my body do things it wasn't used to doing. I admit I have no idea for sure what my starting weight was. I have a general idea based on the last time I had been weighed at the doctors - but my journey began about six months, and what I'm guessing, may even be more pounds later. I did not start out with a goal weight in mind. I didn't want one. I wanted to be healthier. Period. Healthy is not pounds on a scale. This is not a short fix; this is a change I will continue to make for the rest of my life.
How Did I Do It?
This is common sense, things we have heard a million times again and again. Change the way you eat. Exercise. Repeat. It's amazing to me when people want to know my "secret." I have no secret. And I find it even funnier when people feel let down by my answer. There is no magic pill. I have not dieted. I have not counted calories. I knew from the start that was not the way I wanted to live my life. This is a lifestyle change. Know that it's going to be challenging, but have faith that you can make the changes you want to.
Amanda: After
About two years later now and around 125 to 135 pounds down, here I am. Still chugging along. Still making it part of my life to make better decisions for my own as well as my family's health. Honestly, I still feel a little silly writing this. I have had people tell me that they think I am an inspiration, which blows my mind. But I am here to tell you: if I can do this, you can do this. All it takes is a true commitment. Am I a superfit person? No, of course not. But every day, I strive to be a little better. I am a real person who did this. I am a mom to three children with a full-time job, a husband, two dogs, and a million other things going on. It takes work. It takes time. But you can do this. Start today, one small change at a time. This is me - this is who I am. Today I will do what I can. Will you?
Do you have an inspiring Before & After story to share? Message us on Facebook, and give us a few details about your journey. We might even profile you on the site, like Amanda!
How the Gym Saved Me From My Depression
The past year has tested every part of my being and reached into just about every corner of my world. Whether it was work, my divorce, or parenthood, this year has been a marathon of events in which the bottom line always required that I just keep on running . . . or swimming. Depends on your sport of choice. Wink.
I was moving. I was dealing with a difficult person. A child undergoing many changes. Job changes. Health issues. Money issues. It felt like once one thing had resolved, another major issue was waiting for me right on deck. There were certain times in which I was so stressed, eating was almost impossible. My stomach decided to take on all of my stresses for my brain, and I just wasn't myself.
I wondered quite a few times why this was happening. But as time has gone on, I have realized that no matter the reason, I am getting stronger and tougher, mentally and physically.
After my Summer of "no food," I finally felt well enough and looked to the gym with open arms; it was like I was reuniting with a lover. The gym had always been a great source of stress relief and fun for me, and so I was looking forward to getting back to "picking things up and putting things down."
It wasn't just that working out helped increase those happy, feel-good hormones in my mind. It wasn't just that being able to do real push-ups for the first time in my life got me into shape.
The gym saved me from succumbing to depression. It kept me from giving up.
Even when I couldn't look at my bank account without thinking, "How am I going to make this month?," I could go in the gym and do squats on the BOSU and side planks with hip dips.
Even when it felt as if I knew nobody in my town where my daughter and I had moved to, I knew how to reverse lunge with a medicine ball like no other.
Even when I felt as if neither my daughter nor myself would adjust to our move, I could learn to do plank with back rows and triceps kickbacks.
Even if I had no Saturday night date or no fun Sunday plans while my daughter was off with her dad, I had a date to run three miles. I had a date to make a HIIT class.
Although I may have felt alone and powerless to change many of the things that upset me in my life, I could change how my body felt and looked. I could go from just doing simple bicep curls to doing bicep curls to a shoulder press on a BOSU, like that. I could go from planking for 30 seconds to a full minute.
I didn't have the power to change all of my circumstances, but at the gym, I had the power to change just about anything and everything.
I had the power to change my body . . . and my brain. My outlook.
The gym . . . my workouts . . . they were and, in many ways, are the one place in which I can call the shots totally and reap all the benefits.
In addition to ballet, having one place in which I could just walk away from my stresses and worries helped me to believe that even when things are very bad, they don't last forever. That tough times make for tough people. That this too shall pass. That there is a light at the end of the tunnel. That I can do anything, even burpees (my utterly least favorite exercise), for 30 seconds and counting. That the pain won't last forever, but the rewards of my hard work, perseverance, and dedication to making things better will last with me for a lifetime.
That these rewards are also my daughter's rewards. That my daughter has seen how her mom commits to her health. When she asked me one day why I wanted to go to the gym in the first place, I told her simply, "Mom feels better when she exercises. It makes my brain, body, and heart happy."
"That's good Mommy," she smiled.
Showing her that her mom values caring for herself will pay off down the line.
A year later, she is happier and I am happier. And sometimes, we do squats together, and even burpees, but I never let on how much I really do hate those burpees.
13 E.L.F. Products Every Beauty Gal on a Budget Must Try
E.L.F. Cosmetics (aka Eyes Lips Face) launched in 2004 after founders Joey Shamah and Scott Vincent Borba noticed that even women with expensive tastes went to dollar stores for affordable cosmetics. In 2004, I was in middle school and was interested in makeup, but didn't have enough money to buy it. After learning about the brand's $1 products on a news segment, I was intrigued. I saved my pennies for weeks until I could place an order online. Not only could I finally afford to buy multiple items, but they were all cruelty-free, too.
Since then, my love of makeup (and my budget) has grown, but I have never given up my love for the brand. Today, E.L.F. is widely available in stores including Walgreens, Target, and on its website, and the line has expanded to a wide range of products between $1-$10. The high-quality assortment has consistently provided me with beauty favorites that I reach for (even over luxury brand products!) in my ever-expanding makeup collection. Read on for the standouts of the affordable brand and decide which ones you'll try first.
Why Expecting Women Should Make This 1 Major Beauty Change For a Toxic-Free Pregnancy
Do pregnant women have to add perfume to the list of things they cannot touch for nine months? Not necessarily - which is good news, since giving up wine is hard enough! Even so, you should give the ingredient list on your signature scent a hard look once you get a positive pregnancy test. You may find it includes ingredients dangerous to your growing fetus.
You should give the ingredient list on your signature scent a hard look once you get a positive pregnancy test.
"A scented product is not necessarily problematic," explained Nneka Leiba, director for Healthy Living Science at the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit that researches toxins in personal care products. "However, it becomes a problem when a manufacturer uses the term 'fragrance' rather than disclose the ingredients."
When you see fragrance on an ingredient list, the brand may be trying to hide something. Leiba told me that "fragrance" is a largely unknown mixture of any number of the fragrance industry's 3,000 ingredients. "Some of these ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption, which should be particularly worrisome for pregnant women," she warned.
Hormones play a critical role in the development of a fetus. And some studies suggest that exposure to chemicals that disrupt normal hormone functions may lead to problems after birth. Troubling ingredients that have been detected in fragrance include diethyl phthalate, a chemical linked to sperm damage in human studies, as well as musk ketone, a synthetic fragrance ingredient that concentrates in human fat tissue and breast milk. Other hormone-disrupting phthalates may also be used in "fragrance" mixtures because they help the scent last longer.
Companies often hide this mixture because they're considered a trade secret, but Leiba said consumers have reason to worry: "When you see it on a label, think of it as code for 'hidden chemicals.'"
That goes for your perfume bottles, but also scented body lotions, shower gels, hair products, and other cosmetics. If you're using a product because you like how it smells, you probably need to give it a second look.
There are companies who are more transparent, including Beautycounter, which bans more than 1,500 questionable or harmful chemicals from its products. The brand's founder, Gregg Renfrew, told us, "At Beautycounter, we fully disclose fragrance ingredients and have since day one."
With its Skin Deep database, EWG also makes it easy to search specific products to see they contain any potentially harmful ingredients. Some products include oils with natural scents. Leiba explained that these ingredients are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by EWG. She noted that some pure essential oils can cause serious skin irritation and allergic reactions, so you want to check specific products in the database or check with your doctor.
If you're expecting and still want a scented pick-me-up, shop these safe options, which include oils, perfumes, and body lotions.
Experts Agree: These Are the 9 Best Hair Colors For Darker Skin
Choosing the right hair color is almost as tricky as finding the perfect foundation shade. Undertones, seasonal shifts, and lighting are all key factors in getting it just right. Much like with nailing foundation, the nuances of darker skin make hair color equally difficult to perfect. That's why we asked hair color experts to share exactly which shades look best on warm brown skin.
The search for finding your perfect hair color starts by looking at your skin's undertones. Hairstylist Noel Reid-Killings told POPSUGAR that as a general rule, ashy, cool brown, chestnut, and chocolate tones work well on darker skin.
While you can still rock blonde or even vibrant rainbow shades, dark colors are always a safe choice to make hair look thick and healthy.
If you want to roll with a new color trend, shades like turquoise, emerald, and hunter greens are on the rise and also happen to be winning options for darker complexions.
Read on to see how nine celebs with deeper skin, nailed a spectrum of strands shades.
41 Insane Facts You Definitely Don't Know About Disneyland
You think you know everything about Disneyland? Wrong. There's some mind-blowing facts out there that even the ultimate Disney fan doesn't know. Check out all the fascinating things we discovered about the happiest place on earth and test your knowledge.
mercredi 1 novembre 2017
Go, Go! The Gigi Hadid x Maybelline Palette Is Now Available at Ulta For $30
Gigi Hadid's first Maybelline product has arrived sooner than expected. The Gigi x Maybelline Jetsetter Palette ($30) is on sale RIGHT NOW at ulta.com, the exclusive US retailer for this collection (it hits Ulta brick-and-mortar stores on Nov. 5). A rep from Ulta told POPSUGAR that the entire collection was originally slated to launch this weekend, but they have made the palette available sooner due to the demand. #Bless you, Ulta!
If you want Jetsetter, you need to act fast since it's limited-edition. As the name suggests, it's made for the girl on the go - like Gigi herself. It includes: two concealers, two lip balms, four eye shadows, one matte bronzer, one highlighter, and one mini mascara. There are also two different-size makeup brushes. So, basically everything.
"The most exciting part about making this collection was creating something I wasn't able to find before - a palette or kit that had all my favorite colors and everything I needed - all in one place," Gigi Hadid said in an official statement on Ulta.com.
The neutral, warm, and rosy colors are perfect for a fresh, glowy look - definitely inspired by Gigi's baby face. You can see how stunning the makeup looks on her in the campaign image ahead.
We're also digging the nude-rose packaging that the palette comes in. It begs to be Instagrammed alongside your Glossier or other millennial pink products. Would you really expect anything less than a cool-girl aesthetic from Gigi?
Keep reading to see more of Jetsetter and Gigi!
Here's the Lowdown on Glycolic Acid, Plus 10 Products That Put It in the Spotlight
If you haven't yet met glycolic acid, prepare to fall in love at first swatch. This superacid falls into the category of "alpha hydroxy acids" - or AHAs - which are naturally derived acids typically found in sugarcane, sugar beets, and fruit. Because a molecule of glycolic acid is smaller than its AHA counterparts (including lactic, mandelic, and citric acids), its particles are better able to penetrate the skin and are considered to be more effective.
"Glycolic acids are often used to treat acne scarring, skin discoloration, and signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles," explained Anita Sun, a medical esthetician and the founder of Dermovia. "It is also effective in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, melasma, seborrheic keratosis, and keratosis pilaris."
In other words, it's really, really ridiculously good at resurfacing the skin. But that's not all!
Sun added, "Glycolic acid helps to boost collagen production and is effective in plumping the skin supporting healthy skin tissue to remain firm and prevents wrinkles from forming. It's also effective in removing surface dead skin cells and removing oil build up in pores."
By incorporating this ingredient into your skincare routine, you'll notice a brighter and more even complexion - sometimes in as little as 24 hours. If you need glycolic acid in your life, we've listed our favorite products ahead.
Newsflash: THIS Is How You Should Actually Be Cutting Your Round Cakes
Well, it looks like we've been cutting our birthday cakes the wrong way all this time. The viral video above has brought our wrongdoing to the light of day and provides us with an unexpected alternative - one that involves rectangular slices instead of the tried-and-true triangular ones. Mathematician Alex Bellos begins the clip by explaining that cutting a cake into wedges causes the sugary dessert to dry out if left in the refrigerator overnight. Instead, he advises making your first slice right down the middle so you can push the cut halves back together to preserve your leftovers' moistness overnight - because there's nothing more disappointing than a dried-out cake!
Watch the video above to see Bellos describe why it's about time you adopt this scientifically proven cutting method. You'll definitely want to add this genius tip to your list of must-know food hacks.
Prince George's School Lunch Menu Is Fancier Than a 5-Star Restaurant
For most toddlers, school lunches include peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, the occasional slice of pizza, and, of course, a sugar-filled juice box to top it off. But things are a lot fancier when you're British royalty, and Prince George's lunch menu can attest to that. Earlier this month, the 4-year-old prince began classes at Thomas's Battersea School in London, where although he's not allowed to have a best friend, he'll be eating like a king. We're finally getting a look at his school lunch menu, and, well, we've never felt so plebeian in our entire lives.
The school boasts an incredibly healthy menu and could easily be confused for a five-star restaurant filled with fancy options . . . and just wait until you hear about the desserts! With vegetarian varieties, fresh bread options, and a well-rounded main course, it's safe to say Prince George will be eating like a king this year. Check out a sample of some of the meals below.
- Freshly prepared authentic lamb ragout with garlic and fresh herbs; organic grated cheese with baton carrots and cucumber; steamed fiber-rich whole wheat tasty pasta.
- Freshly prepared BBQ pork strips; steamed baby corn, carrots, and mange tout; Mediterranean 50/50 couscous and quinoa.
- Freshly prepared teriyaki salmon on a bed of lentils.
- Oven-baked beef meatballs with cannellini beans in a tomato and basil sauce; grated organic cheese and fresh crudities; steamed 50/50 brown and white rice.
- Some dessert options: fresh baked waffle with a fruit coulis and single cream; freshly prepared chocolate and courgette sponge with organic custard; oven-baked oatmeal and raisin cookie served with a banana milkshake; freshly baked Portuguese egg custard tart with strawberries.
Lunchtime has never sounded so luxurious!
Pack a Different Healthy Lunch Every Day This Month With Over 30 Fresh Recipe Ideas
The holidays are almost upon us, but don't lose sight of your healthy goals! Kick-start your healthiest season yet and bring clean, wholesome, nutritious lunches to work.
From warming Fall soups to fresh salads and mason jar bowls, you can chill, reheat, and pack - meaning these meals are totally office-ready. Best part? They're low-calorie, high-protein, and made with whole, natural ingredients. Who's hungry?
Here's What - and When - to Eat Before Working Out
When it comes to working out, it's important to feel energized, but it's not always as simple as grabbing a snack on your way out the door. Eating too close to exercise is a recipe for discomfort, but heading to the gym hungry isn't ideal either.
To learn how to maximize the potential of a workout, I spoke with nutritionist Heidi Skolnik, MS, CDN, FACSM, and author of Nutrient Timing for Peak Performance ($20) to find out what to eat and when before heading to the gym.
Meet the 2 Guys Behind the Eerily Perfect Music in Stranger Things
Some of the appeal of Stranger Things can certainly be traced back to the way the show masterfully weaves in cultural references that make you believe that you are reliving the '80s. But it's the uniquely original plot that keeps viewers glued to their screens and the wildly addictive soundtrack that makes it so that you really, truly can't get the show out of your head. Season one mastered the eerie, perfectly pitched synth scoring, and season two lives up to that standard - and that's all thanks to musical heroes Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein.
Download Wardenclyffe, a previously unreleased live edit, and the video for Copter now via https://now.bt.co/
Posted by S U R V I V E on Thursday, January 12, 2017
Dixon and Stein are members of the Austin, TX, electronic group Survive and, alongside bandmates Adam Jones and Mark Donica, have been making synth-based music since way back in 2009. The two were approached by the Duffer brothers - the creators of Stranger Things - before they had even completed the scripts or begun casting for the show for Netflix, and early pitch material featured an original Survive song as its soundtrack. Dixon and Stein later composed the scoring for the series as well as its iconic opening credits, though it wasn't immediately obvious that they were about to become part of a cultural phenomenon.
As Esquire reported last year, the duo didn't think much of the show's premiere on Netflix. "Kyle Dixon left on a camping trip to Portland," the story goes. "He was gone through Sunday without service, and when he finally got back to civilization, he had missed hundreds of calls and emails. The score he'd created with his bandmate Michael Stein for Netflix's surprise hit sci-fi series had, over the weekend, become one of the most talked about pieces of music of the year." So much so, in fact, that Dixon and Stein would receive an Emmy for their work.
In an interview with the LA Times, it was revealed that Survive's signature electro vibe was altered slightly for Stranger Things 2 - in other words, for the very first time ever, Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon used actual instruments to create the perfect pitch for the second season. It's not an obvious shift, though, as Stein revealed in the interview, saying the audio had been "so processed that viewers might have a tough time 'even noticing that we're using it to any degree.'"
Survive's new album, RR7387, is slated for release on Nov. 3 - and until then, Stein and Dixon are out on the road performing the Stranger Things tunes that we have all come to know and love. And be sure to check out the stand-alone score, one which Dixon described in a 2016 interview as being responsible for making people uncomfortable, intrigued, and "you know, happy and nostalgic and remembering their childhood as well . . . But then being scared as f*ck."
Stranger Things: How Did Hopper Even Know Eleven Was Alive?
This article contains spoilers for Stranger Things season two.
One of the highlights of Stranger Things season two is Hopper and Eleven's father-daughter bond. These two misfits find each other at the perfect moment, and it's clear that they're officially Hawkins' cutest family - especially after Hopper's house-cleaning dance. Still, the Netflix series doesn't answer all of the lingering questions from season one, like, how does Hopper know Eleven is alive in the first place? The season begins with the two settled into a routine, and it only shows snippets of how Hopper finds Eleven through flashbacks. Thankfully, those snippets are enough to figure out how Hopper realizes Eleven is out there and in need of his help.
Even though it isn't explicitly stated in season two, it seems Hopper realizes Eleven made it out of the Upside Down alive after she uses her telekinetic abilities to take a hunter's jacket. At that point, Eleven had been on her own for at least two or three days, which made her desperate enough to risk exposure if it meant staying warm. The man no doubt called the police after his bizarre run-in with a scary little girl in the forest. Given Eleven's unique abilities, Hopper would have realized immediately that the girl the man was describing was Eleven and set out to find her.
Season two is full of hints about Hopper's past, and one of the biggest revelations comes when he reveals to Eleven that the cabin they call home used to belong to his grandfather. Between that and the expert trap-setting, Hopper clearly has an outdoorsman past. After he realized that Eleven was alive, Hopper likely put his hunting skills to use in order to draw her out, namely by leaving food for her to find, signaling that she wasn't alone. It's unclear whether or not Hopper built the box in the woods or if it's an old survival cache box used by rangers to store food in case of emergencies, but either way, Hopper knew Eleven would be hungry. He also knew she loves Eggos, which would be a quick way to communicate to her that whoever was leaving the food knew her. Thanks to the hunter, Hopper also had a good idea of the vicinity Eleven was in, and these two things combined made it easier for him to find the superpowered tween.
Despite leaving most of how Hopper tracks down Eleven a mystery, Stranger Things does an excellent job of showing how these two characters come to trust and rely on each other. Clearly, neither one of them has an easy time opening up, and Hopper's fear that something would happen to Eleven if she leaves the cabin puts a strain on their family bonding. In fact, Hopper's other box - the one that doesn't contain Eggos - seems to be a bigger problem for Eleven. However, it also becomes the catalyst that leads her back home for good.
The fact that Hopper knows about Eleven's mother, but fails to share the information with her, sends the young woman on a quest that ultimately leads to her finding not only her mom, but also her "sister." Even though she finds two women with whom she shares a strong bond, Eleven chooses to return to Hawkins to protect her friends. Her journey gives her some sense of context about her past, as well as a drive to seek out the future she wants. That future is in Hawkins with Hopper, Mike, and her friends.
If Eleven had never stolen that jacket, Hopper may not have realized Eleven was still alive, and her story could have had a tragic ending. Fate seems to have brought these two together, and with any luck, even the Mind Flayer won't be able to tear Hopper and Eleven apart in Stranger Things season three.
Gorgeous Gift Baskets So Easy to Copy, It's Ridiculous
No one would blame you if you never wanted to create a gift basket on your own. DIY gift baskets are pretty intimidating, since you have to find the right pieces that fit perfectly together. But the truth is, the process is much simpler than you think, and we have the proof.
In a special collaboration, Abby Larson, the editor and founder of Style Me Pretty, worked with HomeGoods to curate gorgeous gift baskets that you can easily re-create. There's one for the entertainer in your life, one for the baker, and one for the cocktail-lover, and they're equally as impressive. Just copy her same picks for an affordable, foolproof gift idea you'll want to give for years to come. There, that wasn't so bad, was it?
Source: Style Me Pretty
Christmas Fans, You're Going to Lose Your Mind Over This Ho, Ho, Hotel
If you're obsessed with Christmas, brace yourselves. A hotel exists that is decked-out in full-blown holiday decor 365 days a year. Forget counting down the days until Dec. 25 and just stay the night at The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, TN, where every day is a magical "Winter" wonderland, complete with twinkle lights and Christmas trees. See this holiday ho, ho, hotel now!
Your Hairstyle Could Actually Be Aging You - Here Are 11 Ways to Avoid That
We worry a lot about keeping our skin youthful, but have you ever considered how your hairstyle might be another culprit that's aging you? See: wispy bangs, limp locks, or chopping all your hair off once you've hit a certain age just because you think it's your social obligation to do so. The truth is, you can make simple hair changes that instantly leave you looking fresh-faced and, more importantly, give you a confidence boost. Ahead, we show you exactly how with the help of celeb hairstylists like Etienne Ortega, Franck Izquierdo, and more.
Exclusive: See EVERY Product in Mally's Disney Frozen-Inspired Collection
When we first heard that Mally Beauty would be debuting a collection inspired by Frozen, we did what any big Disney fan would do: freak out. And that was only after seeing the ice castle-inspired packaging.
Now, POPSUGAR has the exclusive first look at all the products you'll be able to get when the collection goes live today, Nov. 1, on QVC and they are even better than we imagined. There are two $55 bundles, one inspired by Princess Anna and one inspired by Queen Elsa. Each has seven products including eye shadow, blush, eyeliner, lipgloss - basically everything you'd need for a full face.
The Anna makeup is decorated in a fleur de lis pattern inspired by her dress. The shades are all warm, neutral peach and bronze tones fitting of the redhead. Meanwhile, the Elsa makeup is adorned in snowflakes and icicles. Her products are more cool-toned and includes a red lip that'd look striking against her platinum blonde. Each set comes with matching mirror compacts.
The collection will go live for pre-sale starting at 2PM EST (and don't worry, these goodies will definitely arrive before Christmas). Get a closer look at all the goodies, ahead.
They're Here! 13 Brand-New, Editor-Approved Nail Polishes For Fall
Fall is such a fun time for a fresh manicure, and big cosmetics brands have just released their brand-new Autumn hues! We're giving you a look at the hottest lacquers of the season with colors that range from deep, vampy burgundy to sparkly rose gold. And since these picks are just hitting shelves, you'll have attention-getting nails before anybody else. Take a look at these gorgeous shades from OPI, China Glaze, Deborah Lippmann, Butter London, Orly, Sall Hansen, JINsoon, and Tom Ford. Your bank account is about to get a tad emptier. With this many options, you might need to get a mani once a week!
Find Your Signature Scent Using Your Zodiac Sign
We rely on our horoscope for everything from love advice to hairstyle ideas. You can also link your zodiac sign to your signature scent. All those personality traits from the astrology calendar can lead you to the the right blend of notes for your mood. We enlisted the help of Anne Nelson Sanford, perfumer and founder of LURKbeauty, to determine which perfume ingredients best fit each sign. Keep reading to get Sanford's in-depth recommendations from Gemini's lavender love to Capricorn's jasmine affinity. Plus, we also give you a few suggestions of what to shop based on your birth month.
Burning Question: At What Temperature Is a Turkey Cooked?
No matter what kind of turkey you'll be having this year, there's one question you'll need the answer to: what temperature does a turkey need to reach in order to be considered done?
Until 2008, the USDA recommended cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 180ºF. But based on the fact that bacteria threat salmonella cannot withstand temperatures of 160ºF after 30 seconds, the FDA now suggests a minimum internal temperature of 165ºF as measured by a food thermometer in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast.
The FDA doesn't really account for the fact that the breasts cook slower than the thighs. Turkey experts like Butterball recommend cooking the breast to 165ºF and the thigh to 180ºF. The key number is the breast temperature, so stress less about the thigh temperature (as long as it's over the 160ºF ballpark). And, if you really want the juiciest white meat possible, factor in carry-over cooking. America's Test Kitchen says to pull the bird out of the oven at 160ºF, since the residual heat from the meat will raise the temperature to 165ºF as it rests for 15-20 minutes (but no more than 30).
From Mashed Potatoes to Pumpkin Pie, No One Will Guess These Thanksgiving Dishes Are Vegan
Between the turkey, gravy, and pies, Thanksgiving can be a carnivore's delight but a vegan's nightmare. Fortunately, we've put together our favorite meat-, egg- and dairy-free recipes so you can watch a delicious meal unfold. These recipes are so good, guests will be surprised to learn your secret!
Add Some Cardio to Your Barre Workout For the Best Burn Ever
Quick-paced moves keep your heart rate up in this at-home Cardio Barre workout. And you'll be surprised how much of your body you can work in 10 minutes! Grab a sturdy chair to use as your barre, and get ready to sculpt your way lean.
Is Coffee Bad For You? Here Are the Facts, Straight From a Doctor
If you're like two-thirds of Americans, you probably started your day with at least one cup of coffee. After water, it's is the most commonly consumed beverage in the United States. But from a health perspective, coffee's reputation has been tenuous for decades, and the habit often draws criticism from wellness circles.
The notion that a coffee-free lifestyle is health-promoting stems at least partially from '70s-era studies that linked coffee intake with higher rates of heart disease and certain cancers. But these associations were later debunked, after other researchers noted that the studies didn't account for unhealthy behaviors (like smoking) that were often associated with coffee drinking at the time.
Despite the release of higher-quality studies that paint a more benign (if not outright positive) picture of the coffee habit, many well-intentioned wellness gurus continue to urge the health-conscious set to give it up. Below, I review the ups and downs of coffee drinking and share my professional take as a doctor.
The Good
Evolving science over the past decade points to several coffee-related health benefits. In large studies, coffee drinkers appear to have a lower risk of type II diabetes, stroke, heart disease, dementia, and certain cancers than non-coffee drinkers.
Two new reports released in July found that coffee drinkers even have lower rates of death from any cause - including cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease - than people who don't drink coffee. Furthermore, those who drank two to three cups per day appeared to have a lower risk of death than those who drank just one.
Coffee is actually the leading source of antioxidants in the typical American diet, likely because we drink so much of it.
Studies like these must be interpreted with caution, however, because they only imply association, not causation. According to Darla Klokeid, MD, a family medicine physician at One Medical Group in Seattle, "Healthy individuals may be more likely to select or have access to coffee and other caffeinated beverages than less healthy individuals." In other words, the study may have selected for people who were healthier overall, which makes the task of determining whether coffee itself is a causative agent very difficult.
Still, many experts say that a causative relationship between coffee and downstream health benefits is scientifically plausible, thanks to coffee's high antioxidant content. According to the American Chemical Society, coffee is actually the leading source of antioxidants in the typical American diet, likely because we drink so much of it.
Though both regular and decaf coffee are antioxidant powerhouses, caffeinated coffee can provide additional perks. "Caffeine is known to have short-term benefits - it can increase concentration, mental energy, and alertness," said Klokeid. This may sound familiar to anyone who can't talk to another human in the morning without a cup or two.
The Bad
Coffee - with and without caffeine - is known to exacerbate gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), so if you get heartburn or stomach pain after drinking a cup, you should probably stay away. Those with trouble sleeping should also be wary; one study demonstrated that consuming caffeine even six hours before bedtime can have disruptive effects on sleep.
As any java drinker can tell you, another downside is caffeine dependence. After skipping a morning cup, habitual drinkers tend to develop headaches, fatigue, and irritability. But only a minority of drinkers say that dependence makes them want to cut the habit. For those who do give it up, symptoms subside within a few days.
Dangers of too much caffeine also exist. Overdoing it on caffeinated coffee could lead to anxiety, tremors, gastrointestinal upset, and palpitations. Generally these effects are seen at levels above 400 mg, or roughly four cups of coffee.
Overall, however, coffee drinking appears remarkably safe. Though many critics have warned that caffeinated coffee can lead to dehydration by causing the kidney to excrete excess water, this diuretic effect is only seen in the short term and is diminished in those who drink coffee regularly. The same is true for blood pressure - caffeine can raise blood pressure acutely among people who infrequently ingest it, but studies among habitual coffee drinkers have found that coffee has minimal (if any) effect on blood pressure.
The Verdict
Like most doctors, I assure my patients that they can enjoy a morning cup of coffee without guilt. Dr. Klokeid agrees. "Current medical data indicates that it can't be discouraged," she said.
But there isn't quite enough evidence to encourage its use, either. More research is needed to determine whether coffee truly leads to improved health outcomes. But for the majority of people, moderate consumption is a low-risk habit that could turn out to be one of the healthier things you can do.
22 Tasty Breakfast Recipes That Also Promote Weight Loss
What you regularly choose for breakfast could make or break your weight-loss results. If you're on a mission to shed a few pounds, look to these 22 recipes for help. They're all high in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that will keep you satisfied and on course.
16 Retro Toys That Have Lasted the Test of Time
There is something almost magical about coming across an old-school, classic toy. With the gifting season upon us, let's take a nostalgic trip through time to find some of the most popular toys from back in the day that are still on the market.
5 Tips That Will Make Any Camping Trip a Success
Growing up, some of my fondest memories came from camping. Despite the fact my sisters and I were always assigned the task of collecting enough twigs to fuel the night's fire, we loved every second of this adventure, as we knew it was the gateway to gooey, delicious s'mores and endless scary stories. Ah, the good old days.
While many people assume you need to be a nature fanatic or have lots of outdoorsy gear in order to enjoy this kind of trip, that's simply not the case. Serving as a wonderful way to disconnect from the everyday stresses and reconnect with nature, I'd be the first to admit camping can work wonders on any weary soul. So whether you're preparing for the ultimate road trip or merely looking for any excuse to get out under the stars, you'll find all the essentials needed for an epic camping trip ahead. And don't worry - with these tips, even the most "nonoutdoorsy" person is guaranteed to become a happy camper!
These 38 Gifts From Nordstrom Will Make You the Hero of Holiday Season
Let's face it: the Nordstrom beauty department is a magical wonderland 365 days a year, but around the holidays, the place gets extra special. That's because during the Winter, the store rolls out the absolute best and most luxurious in makeup, skin, and hair care.
From a delightful set of MAC lipsticks to a Laura Geller eye shadow kit that looks good enough to eat, Nordstrom's halls are decked with boughs of beauty. Of course, you can (and should!) go HAM on those pricey, once-in-a-lifetime holiday offerings. But if you're on a budget, it's not impossible to find the cutest little trinkets starting at just $25.
Ahead, find the best presents for friends, family, and, yes, yourself - all waiting for you to scoop them up in the Nordstrom beauty aisles.
25 Meaningful Sugar Skull Tattoos You'll Want to Get Immediately
If you want to immortalize the significance of Día de los Muertos and its traditions with a little ink, we have the inspiration you need to make it happen.
Surrounded by bright colors and flowers, the sugar skull is not meant to be scary like a Halloween skeleton; rather, it represents a beautiful celebration of the loved ones we've lost. In a tattoo, the deeper meaning combined with the colorful design makes for an eye-catching mark with lots of cultural significance.
9 Easy Beauty Routine Swaps You MUST Make Once You're Pregnant
Being pregnant comes with lots of annoying lifestyle changes, but there was one I was actually excited about: cleaning up my beauty routine. Getting that positive pregnancy test motivated me to double-check the ingredients in my everyday personal care products and swap out any that posed a risk to me or the fetus growing inside. My desire to reduce pregnancy side effects like stretch marks and melasma also had me researching safe and effective products that would address those specific issues. In other words, pregnancy gave me a chance to test and stock up on new beauty favorites. For a beauty junkie like me, this was a positive pregnancy side effect.
If you're pregnant or thinking about it, you'll want to take a good look at your beauty routine, too. "We should avoid risky ingredients at all stages of our lives," said Paul Pestano, a senior database analyst for the Environmental Working Group, an organization that researches and educates consumers about toxins in personal care products. "However, pregnancy may be a period in which women should be particularly careful."
Pestano told me that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine warn that exposure to toxic chemicals before conception and during pregnancy can have significant and long-lasting effects on reproductive health. Problems can include infertility, low birth weight, and preterm birth - not risks worth taking for your makeup. Luckily, you just have to swap out potentially harmful products and swap in these safe and effective options. Happy shopping, mama!
How I Kicked My 20-Year-Long Nail-Biting Habit For Good
"I feel sorry for your fingers." Those were the six words that came out of the woman's mouth when she took my hands to try and bless them with a manicure for my wedding. Can I get an ouch?
As painful as that sentence was to take in - especially so close to my big day - truth be told, it was just what I needed to hear to recognize how out of control my nail-biting habit had become. See, I've been a nail-biter for 20-some long years. Looking back, I can't recall how this grotesque, compulsive habit even started, but it's one that has followed me well into adulthood.
It's embarrassing, to say the least - and honestly, I don't think many people realized how much the constant urge to pick, pull, or bite at my fingernails consumed me. But really, that was my goal, because every time I'd shred my cuticles to the point where they'd be dripping with blood - gross, I know - I'd hide each wounded finger so no one would notice. Because what sane person nips at their nail (and the skin around it) until red liquid oozes out, right? To make matters worse, I would feel strangely satisfied each time this happened.
If you are also a chronic nail-biter, I'm hoping you can relate. (By hoping, what I really mean is: please tell me you've experienced similar scenarios so I don't feel too crazy.) And if by chance you are nodding your head in agreement, please know that I, too, feel your pain. What's more? I've got good news for you.
After years of searching high and low for an effective nail-biting solution - and literally trying every single program under the sun - I finally found a method that actually worked. Although it was one of the hardest challenges I've endured, I'm confident that if I can nip this nasty habit in the bud, anyone can.
So if you're ready to quit biting your nails once and for all - and, let's be real, who isn't? - your guide to beautiful hands awaits ahead!
Techie Stocking Stuffers You Won't Believe Cost Less Than $30
It takes a lot to pull off a great gift that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. But lucky for you, we've done all the work. Ahead, check out tech gifts that your friends and family will love, all under $30. At that price, you can stuff their stockings with more than one!
Step Aside, PSL - There's a New Fall-Ready Starbucks Latte in Town, and It's Incredible
Starbucks just released its newest Fall beverage - the Maple Pecan Latte - and, honestly, it gives the beloved PSL a run for its money. Before you accuse me of utter blasphemy against the sacred Pumpkin Spice Latte, hear me out. I admit to indulging in Starbucks's pumpkin-flavored latte from time to time when I'm feeling especially in the sweater-weather spirit, but the syrup is admittedly a tad too sweet and overwhelming at times. That's why the brand spankin' new Maple Pecan Latte (or shall I say MPL?) is my latest obsession.
I had a chance to try the MPL, which is the first maple-flavored drink the coffeehouse has released in US stores in 10 years, and man . . . it sure didn't disappoint! It offers warming, cozy notes of maple syrup, pecans, and brown butter, all of which complement the espresso flavors without overpowering it too much. The best part? It's topped with orange and yellow sugar granules for an added bit of texture (kind of like the Cascara Latte). Overall, sipping on the MPL basically made me feel like I was wrapped up in a fuzzy blanket while watching Hocus Pocus and sniffing a Fall-scented candle. And what's more Fall than that?!
In the famous words of those corny late-night infomercials: "But wait, there's more!" Starbucks is releasing the Maple Pecan Latte in tandem with a new array of Fall-themed cups!
They're just like those bright Spring ones that debuted earlier this year, except these come in warmer colors (teal, magenta, and orange, specifically) and are decorated with illustrations of an owl, a pie, and a pumpkin. How adorable. Can't wait to 'gram a photo of the MPL in one of these cuties.
60 Recipes to Help Shave Calories Off of Lunchtime
Cooking and packing up a quality healthy lunch is a good idea for so many reasons. Whether or not you're trying to lose weight, bringing your own lunch to work keeps you in charge of the ingredients that fuel your body and helps you perform at your best both at work and in the gym. Regardless of your dietary limitations and preferences, (at least!) one of these healthy recipes will fit the bill and make its way into your lunchtime rotation.
You Have Less Than a Month to Watch How I Met Your Mother Before It Leaves Netflix
Once again, the time has come to say goodbye to some of our favorite movies and shows on Netflix. While there are some exciting new additions coming in November, such as Marvel's The Punisher, the streaming service is getting rid of some gems including the entire Matrix franchise and some beloved sitcoms. Needless to say, if you haven't watched How I Met Your Mother all the way through, we suggest starting now.
Nov. 1
Back to the Secret Garden
Black Books, series one-three
Christmas with the Kranks
Get Rich or Die Tryin'
Hard Candy
Hugo
Ravenous
The Brothers
The Legend of Hell House
The Matrix
The Matrix Reloaded
The Matrix Revolutions
The Newton Boys
Thomas & Friends: A Very Thomas Christmas
Thomas & Friends: Holiday Express
Thomas & Friends: Merry Winter Wish
Thomas & Friends: The Christmas Engines
Thomas & Friends: Ultimate Christmas
Twilight
V for Vendetta
Nov. 3
Do I Sound Gay?
Nov. 5
Hannah Montana: The Movie
Heavyweights
Sky High
Nov. 8
The Heartbreak Kid
Nov. 11
Goosebumps
Nov. 13
How I Met Your Mother, seasons one-nine
Nov. 15
Jessie, seasons one-four
The Human Centipede: First Sequence
We Are Still Here
Nov. 16
Cristela, season one
Dream House
Joan Rivers: Don't Start with Me
The Break-Up
Nov. 17
Reggie Yates Outside Man, volume two
Somewhere Only We Know
Nov. 22
The Warlords
Nov. 25
Gringolandia, seasons one-three
Nov. 30
Hatched
Legends, seasons one-two
The Gambler
15 Desserts Shaped Like Sugar Skulls to Mark Day of the Dead
You know one of the most popular traditions for Día de los Muertos is preparing homemade sugar skulls to set on altars for loved ones who have passed away. But through the years, the symbol has expanded to other sweets that are not given as ofrendas but enjoyed with family. These 15 deliciously sweet recipes, from cake pops to sugar cookies, are perfect for the day of remembrance.
Try Solving This Riddle That Is Making the Internet Go Crazy
Ready for a brain workout? There's a mother-daughter riddle circulating the internet that's making people go absolutely crazy trying to solve it. The seemingly simple riddle reads as follows:
If Teresa's daughter is my daughter's mother, what am I to Teresa?
If Teresa's daughter is my daughter's mother, who am I to Teresa? a) Grandmother; b) Mother c) Daughter d) I'm Teresa #TriviaTuesday
- Ginger Bock (@Xiniga) June 6, 2017
It's a viral riddle that got people talking months ago when 22 Words introduced it to the world, and people are still talking about it because it's that confusing! We'll give you a few minutes to think on it for yourself before spoiling the answer.
Source: Rede Globo / Giphy
To narrow down the answer choices, 22 Words turned it into a multiple-choice question with the following options: grandmother, mother, daughter, granddaughter, or "I am Teresa." And according to the site, the answer is . . . drum roll, please . . . daughter. As in, the riddle is just a fancier way of saying, "I am my mother's daughter." When you think about it, the statement could read this way: "I am Teresa's daughter, and I am my daughter's mother." Teresa is the mother of the person asking the question. If you're struggling to visualize the breakdown of the relationship, check out this mother-daughter flow chart that explains it.
Does your brain hurt?! Same.
The Hottest Fall Decor Trends on Etsy Aren't What You're Expecting
Autumn is in full swing and decor shoppers are responding in kind, looking for cozy accents to warm up their homes, aka their personal respite from cooler temps and shorter days. But this year, seasonal decor goes beyond soft blankets and faux fur pillows. The experts at Etsy have noticed some unique trends popping up in the online marketplace and across the industry. Ahead, we break down the six home decor trends Etsy says shoppers can't get enough of for Fall.
16 Small US Towns to Visit If You Love Fall
While there's so much to see in the US, there are also many small towns worth putting on your radar - especially during Fall. There's something about getting out of the city and escaping to a place with picturesque foliage that instantly gets you in the spirit of the season. Whether you're looking to check out harvest festivals, leaf peep, or just enjoy the Autumn month somewhere new, we've got the perfect list for you. See 16 small towns in America to visit in the Fall.
This Winter, Kandee Johnson Wants to Douse Your Hair in Candy Gumdrops
Fresh off of the sweet success of her Too Faced I Want Kandee Collaboration, Kandee Johnson shows no signs of taking a break this holiday. The influencer, who's known for her unicorn hair and penchant for all things colorful, has just teamed up with drugstore haircare brand OGX for a holiday collection that smells good enough to eat.
This limited-edition seasonal line will be made up of three sets of shampoo and conditioner inspired by your favorite holiday treats. Those with PSL-fatigue will be happy to learn that this collection is pumpkin-free. The three scents are named after holiday dessert heroes Candy Gumpdrop, Frosted Sugar Cookie, and Sparkling Cider.
As made evident by its name, the Candy Gumdrop scent smells like gumdrops and vanilla sugar sprinkles. But if you're a vanilla fan, you're in luck, because the warm notes don't stop there.
Frosted Sugar Cookie smells like Grandma's kitchen on a cold Winter's day, as it contains actual notes of Christmas cookies.
No matter what your preferred method of imbibing is, the Sparkling Cider duo has spicy cinnamon scents that will remind you of all kinds of Autumnal goodness.
If these product names fill you up with warm mushy feelings of holiday cheer, then this collaboration has succeeded in its mission. According to a release, Kandee says that, "To me, scents spark wonderful memories and emotions. Whether you're the hostess with the mostess and entertaining guests, or simple want to enjoy and share in the sweetness of the holidays, we hope you savor a moment in the world of Kandeeland with OGX Beauty!"
You can snag this line at Ulta, Walmart, and Walgreens when it's released on Nov. 1. Or, you can do what we did and beg your mom to stock your childhood bathroom with the collab so you can use it when you come home for the holidays.
The Harmful Effects of Instant Ramen Noodles
Yes, you know that instant ramen isn't good for you, but studies have confirmed just how harmful the prepackaged food can really be. A study in the Journal of Nutrition links instant noodle consumption with heart risk, particularly in women. The researchers conducted a study in South Korea, where consumption of instant noodles is the highest in the world, with more than 10,700 people ranging in age from 19 to 64. The results? "Women who consume instant noodles frequently were found to be more likely to have metabolic syndrome - the group of risk factors, including obesity and high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes."
The harmful effects were predominantly found in women and not men. Part of the study reads, "Women - though not men - who ate instant noodles at least twice a week showed a 68 percent higher risk of metabolic syndrome," which is a syndrome that can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The high sodium content in instant noodle products is obvious, but the main culprit is the noodles themselves. In another study by Dr. Braden Kuo, director of the gastrointestinal motility laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard University, the doctor found unsettling results after testing digestion of the noodles. He used a tiny camera to study the breakdown of instant ramen noodles in the stomach and found out just how difficult it is for your body to digest the preservative-filled noodles. Warning: the photos are graphic. A preservative called TBHQ, which is found in many processed foods including Reese's and Chicken McNuggets, extends shelf life of fatty foods and makes them harder to digest. It's one of the many ingredients in Maruchan Chicken Ramen.
If you're hopelessly devoted to instant ramen (and it's a budget-friendly staple in your life), all hope is not lost. Dr. Frank B. Hu, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, told The New York Times, "Once or twice a month is not a problem, but a few times a week really is."
Moral of the story: eating college-friendly instant ramen is OK, but moderation is key.
Here's Why You Should Always Shop at Trader Joe's on Tuesday and Wednesday
There are plenty of Trader Joe's fun facts that would make any customer an even bigger fan of the store, and so will these secrets about what it's really like to work there. An employee who describes himself as a mate, or a manager, at Trader Joe's did a Reddit AMA ("Ask Me Anything") session in which he anonymously answered burning questions from fans on the internet. If you've wondered how good the pay is, if the notoriously nice employees are really that enthusiastic all the time, and how the employees feel when you ask to try products, read on to discover all the answers.
The employees really are always happy.
Someone wanted to know, "Why are you all so happy?" It's true that Trader Joe's employees tend to be enthusiastic and friendly all the time, so is there any sorcery or company policy behind it? The employee said, "Honestly, before I worked there and was just a shopper I was thinking the same thing . . . 'Why are all these people so damn happy, must be faking it or something.' But now that I work there I can tell you it is 100 percent genuine. We are just happy to be at work. It's a great job with great people and we get treated humanely. Need a break? Go stretch your legs. Hungry? Grab a snack. Also very flexible with leaving early/coming in late. Low pressure, low stress job that pays well = happy employees."
They LOVE when you ask to try snacks - really!
"I LOVE when customers ask to try products!!!! Yes, you get to eat as much as you want and the remainder will be given to crew members. We donate as much food as we can to local food shelters but some food does get tossed into the trash. If an item is out of code (expired) we write it off and it goes to the suitable location (trash or donated)." Just make sure it's a reasonable request. He continued, "We're not gonna grill up a steak for you, but something that you can open up and taste, yeah go for it. They'll be happy to open it and let you try. Chips, candy, snacks. Stuff you can just open and eat. Shouldn't be an issue."
Trader Joe's might never come to Canada.
At least, according to this person. When someone asked if the store would ever come to Canada, the response was, "Sadly I don't think so."
Kids can get treats if they find the hidden animal.
"Each store has a stuffed animal of some sort hiding somewhere. It's really just for kids to run around and find the missing animal, and they get a treat. Kids seem to LOVE it and parents go along with it too."
Managers have great hourly wages.
Your hourly wages might start at $10 at first, but once you move up, the pay gets even better. "There is no salary for managers other than the Captain (GM) but mates like myself are still hourly, which in my opinion is much nicer. I make $23 an hour and I work 50 hours a week, so factor in the OT and I get paid handsomely for a job I love doing and is low stress/fun. Plus the benefits are the best."
There's a reason for the quick expiration dates.
When a customer commented on the fact that the "bread has nearly immediate expiration dates," the employee explained about Trader Joe's lack of preservatives. "The best answer for this is that NONE of our products, breads included, have any sort of preservatives in them. Also if the section leader (person who orders that section, in your case - bread) does a poor job and orders too heavy then they are always having backstock which depletes slower so the new stuff becomes old stuff quick. And rotation. But I feel your pain. Thanks for the question!"
The best days to shop are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
According this employee, there are certain best days to shop at Trader Joe's. "Tuesday, Wednesday are the best days. Early morning is best time. I think it's hilarious people go on Sunday and complain that we are so busy. Right when we open is honestly the best time to go. We get fresh produce in every morning so you can get the best products, and some stuff actually will sell out for the day around 2 to 4 p.m., including perishable and non perishable items."
Don't get caught trying to take advantage of the return policy.
Trader Joe's generous return policy allows you to return any product you didn't like, even if you already opened it, and sometimes even without a receipt. But the employees can totally tell if you're faking it and are attempting to "return" an item you just found while shopping. "For example, our vitamins can run up to about $20 for a small bottle, a customer will grab it off the shelf and come to a register claiming a refund. The company knows this happens and enforces the policy, knowing well they are being frauded. It eats at my core though. The worst kind of person."
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