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.
lundi 11 juin 2018
How to Not Eat Complete Sh*t When You Are Ridiculously Busy
I know I'm not alone in the struggle to eat real food while surviving a crazy busy day. Many of us can relate to getting up too early and staying up too late, trying to squeeze in a workout, weeding through a constantly clogged email inbox, furiously typing 100 WPM, trying not to neglect friendships and relationships, and remembering to breathe. But the most essential thing to the success of a day is fuel . . . and M&M's, frozen mac and cheese, and endless cups of coffee aren't sustainable forever. As I'm entering my late 20s and my metabolism is beginning to resemble a sloth's movement, I'm more than ever attempting to find the easiest and most delicious ways to eat real food. Here are some of my ideas:
Breakfast
I try to eat breakfast away from a computer. It may be my only meal of the day that's not in front of a screen. Since I'm up really early, I usually end up eating two breakfasts (one savory at 6 a.m. and one sweet around 10 a.m.).
- Whole plain Greek yogurt with berries is a filling option. I love berries because they are delicious and don't require cutting! I also love tossing puffed brown rice on top for textural contrast.
- Mornings in the office are all about avocado on whole-wheat toast. If I'm at home, I'll top a fried egg on there. In the office, sliced hard-boiled egg is another great topper.
- Microwaveable oatmeal with peanut butter and banana tastes like cookies and only takes about five minutes to make.
Lunch
Oh, lunch! How neglected you typically are! Though I wish I could get my sh*t together enough in the a.m. to pack a perfect mason jar salad, I just don't. So here's what I do instead:
- Here's what I throw in my bag: prewashed greens (I love the kind with herbs for a little somethin' extra), a whole avocado, a lemon, and either smoked salmon or shredded chicken (that I totally buy by the cupfuls from the Whole Foods salad bar or steal the leftovers off of Sunday night's rotisserie chicken at my parents' house). I keep salt, pepper, and olive oil at my desk so I can quickly whip up a lemony vinaigrette. When I'm really strapped for salad fixings, I turn to the snacks at work - a mini wheel of cheese and a handful of almonds go a long way.
- Microwaveable meals like this edamame rice are really easy to throw together and taste so fresh and light.
- I rarely have leftovers, but when I do, it's usually soup, like this green pea soup. It makes for a satisfying lunch; I just make sure to pack it properly and bring in some soup toppings like fresh herbs.
Snacks
There are so many snacks in the office - which can totally derail my plans to eat well. I try to avert my eyes from the Oreos and chips (and the mini Snickers, which are my kryptonite) to focus on these beauties:
- Radishes, persian cucumbers, and baby carrots don't really require much prep, other than a quick rinse. I dip them in store-bought hummus or homemade hummus if it's something I've recipe developed.
- Freeze-dried fruit lasts a while and is nice to have on hand when a crunchy craving hits. My favorites are cherries and raspberries.
- Jerky! My office has turkey jerky readily available, but when I plan ahead, I opt for Krave Chili Lime beef jerky.
Dinner
I'm currently taking a nighttime coding class, so I don't get home until 10 p.m. But even before those days, I would hit the gym and get home at 8 p.m. At that point, I'm starving and need something near immediately, so these are my go-tos:
- Tolerant Red Lentil Rotini is my most favorite pantry staple. Because I'm not home often, I don't usually keep raw meat available, and this gluten-free pasta has 21 grams of protein per serving! Ten times out of 10, I eat pasta like so: with olive oil, parmesan, and chili flakes. And if tender greens are in my fridge, I throw them in the pasta water during the last minute of cooking.
- The lovely Nicole Perry introduced me to this one-pan salmon recipe. It's chock-full of crispy cabbage and kale, it comes together in a flash, and it's easy to clean up. I make it on my weekend nights home.
- Millet-lentil salad dressed with whatever herbs and veggies I have on hand is another dinner staple. And bonus: the leftovers pack up nicely for lunch too.
6 Signs Your Bottle of Wine's Gone Bad
Not all wine is ideal for storing. If it's been in contact with air for too long or has a tainted cork, the liquid inside has turned and should not be consumed. Here are a handful of telltale signs that might indicate a good wine has gone bad.
- The smell is off. If a wine's aroma is moldy or resembles a musty basement, wet cardboard, or vinegar, it's turned. A heavy raisin smell is another bad signal.
- The red wine tastes sweet. If the bottle of red wine has the aroma of Port or tastes like dessert wine (even though it is neither of those two things), it has been overexposed to heat, and is therefore undrinkable.
- The cork is pushed out slightly from the bottle. That's a sign the wine has overheated and expanded within the bottle.
- The wine is a brownish color. A brown hue in red wine demonstrates that the liquid is past its prime. White wines that have darkened to a deep yellow or brownish straw color are usually oxidized.
- You detect astringent or chemically flavors. Wine that lacks fruit, is raspy, too astringent, or has a paint-thinner taste is usually bad.
- It tastes fizzy, but it's not a sparkling wine. A still wine that is fizzy or effervescent has undergone a second fermentation after the bottling and shouldn't be enjoyed.
One last word of advice: Always smell and examine the actual liquid. Although the term "corked" commonly refers to tainted wine, inspecting the cork alone will not determine if the wine has gone bad. Use your other senses. Have you ever had an undrinkable bottle of wine? How did you know it was questionable?
18 Baked Chicken Dishes You'll Love Throwing in the Oven After Work
Versatile and delicious, chicken can be cooked in countless ways. But there's something about baking the bird - covering it in a crispy breading or flanking it with tender vegetables - that keeps you coming back for more. Healthier than frying and less hands-on than pan searing, the oven method is the perfect one for wholesome, yet simple, chicken dinners. Here are 18 dishes that prove once you bake, you never go back.
100+ Cheap or Free Things to Do This Summer
When we think of childhood Summers, we think of balmy nights chasing fireflies, walking barefoot on hot sand, and hours of fun that didn't cost a thing. Just because we're adults doesn't mean we have to drop a ton of money to celebrate our favorite season! There are endless activities you can do this Summer, and we've rounded up ones that you'll love when you're feeling lazy, when you're ready to get a workout, or when you're in search of an adventure. The best part is they will barely cost you a thing!
30+ Mouthwatering Mediterranean Meals
There's no denying the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and the fact that the dishes taste so delicious is a major bonus. You might not be able to travel to the waters of Greece or Italy, but you can still get the yum factor right at home with these recipes rich in nuts, vegetables, beans, olive oil, and fish. From tzatziki to tahini, here are 37 recipes that will help you master Mediterranean cuisine.
- Additional reporting by Brinton Parker
The Best Way to Store Greens
If your greens are wilting within a few days of bringing them home from the store, you can prevent it with this quick storage tip. First, wash the greens thoroughly in cold water. Submerge them in bowl full of cold water at least three times before spinning them dry. Then line a resealable bag or tupperware container with a paper towel. Transfer the greens, then top them with another paper towel. Seal the bag (some air inside is OK) or pop the lid on the tupperware and store in the fridge. That's it! This technique should keep them crisp and fresh for well over a week. You'll never suffer from using sad, mushy greens again.
25 Quotes About Mindfulness That Will Change the Way You Live Your Life
For most of us, multitasking has become a way of life. We are expected to do it all, know it all, and always be 10 steps ahead. But are we actually doing ourselves a disservice by constantly running on autopilot? What are we missing out on? The concept of mindfulness focuses on bringing your full attention to the present moment without judgment. It's about cultivating awareness to whatever is happening in the here and now instead of past regrets or fears of the future. Mindfulness can help alleviate stress, empower us to make more educated decisions, help with focus and concentration, and improve our overall health and wellness. If you feel like your mind is running you ragged and you could benefit from a little more peace, then we've got just the thing. Check out these 25 quotes on the power of being mindful, and remember - slow down and just breathe!
Removing These 31 Things From Your Life Will Make You Happier and More Successful
It's time to come clean. If you want to become a happier person, you don't need to add things to your life - you need to get rid of them. It's time to remove these worries or problems so that you can move in the right direction. Take this list to heart and look forward to a flourishing life.
8 Amazing Plants That Will Help Keep Your Home Cool This Summer
If you're looking for creative ways to beat the heat this Summer, consider this: certain house plants are natural coolants. That's because plants absorb heat and many will also emit oxygen, lowering the ambient air temperature. These greens not only enliven your home decor, but they're also useful! Keep reading to discover the seven house plants that are also stellar natural coolants.
How Your Unique Talents Can Create Happiness Every Day
You're a snowflake, right? No one else has your personality, your smile, your talents. As clichéd as it may sound, it's all true. And what's even more fantastic is that your unique traits, your snowflake-ness, can help you build and boost your happiness levels every single day.
How can you leverage your personality to become a happier person? Take some time to reflect on the key traits of your personality, try this free survey to determine your universal character strengths, and then look through the suggestions below to see what you can do to make today a better, happier day.
Are you a brave soul?
Go on a new adventure, like caving or whitewater rafting. Be the one to tell your boss what everyone really thinks about a new office policy.
Can't check your curiosity?
Try out a restaurant you've always wondered about, or if you like to cook, tackle a new recipe. Explore a new part of your city, or visit a museum you've never been to.
Ever been called an Honest Abe?
Write a letter to a friend or relative to tell them how you feel about something that you never were able to talk about. Or tell them face to face.
Are you the leader of the pack?
Organize an outing with your friends - you know, the one you all talk about but haven't been able to make happen. At work, volunteer to head up a new project or social committee.
Do you seek justice for all?
If you witness someone being treated unfairly, step in and do something about it. Sign a petition, or write or call your congressman about an issue that needs attention.
Are you a lifelong learner?
Watch a documentary or read a book on an issue you don't know anything about. Take an online class, or join one at your local community center.
Do you have some creative powers?
Take just 30 minutes out of your day to create, whether it's drawing, writing, making music, or designing. Share something you've already created with family, friends, or colleagues or via social media, or set up an exhibition or performance.
Love to laugh it up?
Join or start a laughter club. Go to a comedy club with friends, or watch a funny movie at home with family.
Can you persevere through tough times?
Finish something you started a long time ago. Write out a detailed timeline for a new goal or a goal that you've already been working on.
Are you a giver of gratitude?
Write little notes to thank your friend/significant other/relative/colleague for something they've done or just for being who they are, and slip the notes onto their desk or in a book. Or just call them and tell them. Make a list of all the things you're thankful for in your life, and look it at every day when you wake up.
Perhaps your personality already drives you to do some of these things, but we can always do more. Make today the day that you act on your long-held idea.
Vanessa Van Edwards is a behavioral investigator and published author. She figures out the science of what makes people tick at her human behavior research lab, the Science of People. As a geeky, modern-day Dale Carnegie, her innovative work has been featured on NPR, Business Week, and CNN, and her latest CreativeLive class, The Power of Happiness, teaches you how to be a happier person every day.
What to Do With Used or Leftover Charcoal
Your Summer grilling soiree was a hit, and all that's left to do is pack away leftovers and dump out your grill full of charcoal ash and spent hickory chips. But before you upend that Weber, take care to dispose of the mess safely (ash can still be hot!) and properly.
To dispose of charcoal and wood ash: Let the ash cool for 48 hours. You can speed up this process by pouring water over the hot charcoal and stirring it very carefully. When the ash has cooled completely, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in an noncombustible outdoor trash bin.
If you used additive-free lump charcoal: Fertilize your plants! Charcoal ash contains potash, an important nutrient for some plants. It's also a great way to increase the pH of the soil.
When you have a bag of used charcoal (and not briquettes with additives) sitting around your garage, there are a number of ways to use it up, even if grilling isn't on this Summer's agenda.
- Keep a few pieces in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator to kill odors.
- Feed your compost pile to increase the carbon content.
- Place a lump at the bottom of a flower vase to make cut flowers last longer.
- Suppress garden weeds and maintain soil moisture by using charcoal as a mulch.
- Mix crushed charcoal with orchid potting medium to increase the alkalinity.
- And, of course, keep them around for Winter snowman faces!
Taco Bell Is Serving This Strawberry Frosé All Summer Long, and It Sounds SO Refreshing!
You know the frosé trend has gotten huge when fast-food restaurants get in on it. Taco Bell is the first to officially hop on board, and it's introduced a Frosé Twisted Freeze to cool you off this Summer while you satisfy your Crunchwrap Supreme cravings. Refreshing frozen wine and cheap tacos? Yes, please! There's a catch you probably saw coming, though - it's only available in two locations. Taco Bell is testing the frosé menu item at the Taco Bell Cantinas in Newport Beach, CA, and Dearborn Street in Chicago.
The frozen drink is Rosé blended with "berry flavors," described by Taco Bell as a "tasty, strawberry-forward" treat. If you're lucky enough to be near one of the two locations, you can order a "glass" for $8 in Newport Beach or $5 in Chicago while it's available throughout the Summer. The rest of us will have to settle for a Taco Bell run followed by homemade frosé, but no complaints there!
The Completely Addictive Method of Grilling Steak
The reverse sear method for cooking steak is arguably one of the best indoor techniques, and a similar concept can be applied when grilling steak outdoors on a charcoal grill. Instead of slow-cooking in the oven, the steak is first smoked (positioned away from the charcoal), and instead of searing on a skillet, the steak is finished directly over the charcoal for just a few minutes on each side. You're left with perfectly juicy steak and a crisp exterior, no burnt bits or accidental overcooking. You can do this, grill master, you.
Here's what you'll need:
- A charcoal grill
- Hardwood lump charcoal
- Gelled alcohol
- Stick lighter
- Barbecue tongs
- Mesquite wood chunks (or any other type)
- 2 (12-ounce) strip steaks (at least 1-inch thick)
- Ghee or clarified butter
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground pepper
The Ultimate Travel Bucket List For Water-Lovers
Being near water equals instant relaxation for some of us, so a swimmable destination is much preferred when vacationing. You can't really call a trip a success if you're not pruney the entire time, can you? If you, too, are basically a mermaid IRL, we've rounded up some of the most incredible spots around the world that will give you your fix of H2O. Picturesque beaches and once-in-a-lifetime experiences only begin to describe what's ahead. Check out 35 places around the world that make up the ultimate water-lover's bucket list.
The Moves You Should Be Doing For a Perkier Butt
Need to shape up your backside? Look no further - we've got over 30 of the most effective exercises to perk up your backside fast. Read on to learn the moves, and stick around to the end for five celebrity-inspired butt-shaping video workouts for you to follow!
- Additional reporting by Michele Foley, Lizzie Fuhr, Susi May, Jenny Sugar, and Jaime Young
The 6 Steps I Took to Lose 25 Pounds and Weighing Myself Isn't One of Them
By the middle of my sophomore year of college, I was in the worst physical shape of my life. A mix of drinking, the freedom to eat whatever and whenever I pleased, and my mom's cancer prognosis led to rapid weight gain and plummeting self-confidence. Every day I dragged myself to class wearing shapeless, oversize clothing and avoided eye contact with my peers - I was genuinely unhappy with my appearance. The weight wasn't just burdening my body; it was affecting my mind as well. I felt intense anxiety and self-consciousness, and social situations that I used to flourish in became intimidating and difficult to maneuver.
My rock bottom
One night when I was getting ready for a friend's birthday dinner, I realized the extent of my dissatisfaction. As I thumbed through my closet feeling uninspired by every article of clothing, I realized that style, something I had always cherished, no longer excited me. It felt out of reach. I was not comfortable with the body I was dressing, and that realization was enough for me to begin making major lifestyle changes immediately.
I first had to accept that losing weight wasn't going to be an easy task, and that was why it was going to be worth it. Working toward anything takes unwavering willpower, strength, and sacrifice: weight loss was no different. Once I decided I wanted to change, a game plan fell into place.
Step 1: I assessed my habits
I had always heard that weight loss was more about diet than exercise. In my case, this was more than true. I had been eating whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and as much as I wanted. My weakness was (and probably always will be) carbs, in all forms. I craved pasta, pizza, and bread of all sorts, much more than any indulgent dessert or treat. So, I knew for sure that this was an area that could use serious improvement. Since my mom has always commented on my unhealthy attraction to carbs, I confided in her about wanting to make a change and she helped me understand the difference between good and bad carbs. I hit the ground running and immediately cut out refined and processed carbohydrates, such as those found in the pasta and bread I loved, eating only carbs that were found naturally in fruits and vegetables. I knew I would be able to return to pasta someday, but for now it had to go.
Step 2: Apps that aided and recorded progress
Being a full-time student while balancing a social life, I definitely did not have access or the funds for guidance from a nutritionist, so, I did what any problem-solving millennial would do and I scavenged the app store for something that could help me instead. The app that kick-started and aided me immensely in my journey was MyFitnessPal. It taught me a lot about my body and what and how much I should be eating. What I found most useful was the ability to choose a target weight and the amount of time I wanted to take to reach the target weight. It was especially helpful in the beginning because I had no idea about intake and calories. Is 800 calories a lot for a meal? How many calories should I be eating a day? Is butter a carb? I also used KeepSafe, which is a camera roll protected by fingerprint and/or a custom passcode. For me, tracking my progress visually was incredibly important. I wanted to keep track of my weight loss through photos of myself in a sports bra and underwear so that I could easily observe the changes happening. That being said, I didn't want intimate photos of myself nearly naked living in my camera roll where a friend could easily stumble upon them.
Step 3: I skipped my diet sometimes
I remember beating myself up pretty harshly the first few times I broke the "no carb" rule I set for myself, but I quickly realized the significance of moderation. One meal, no matter how big or unhealthy, was probably not going to affect my weight as long as I was diligent and consistent with my diet the majority of the time. There was no reason to make myself feel as though I had failed for indulging. A bowl of gnocchi is something to celebrate!
Step 4: I found my place to sweat
I had always hated the gym and running, and intense anxiety tended to inhibit me from trying classes because I'm not completely in control of the situation. But, FINALLY, after a year and a half of healthy eating with no exercise, I forced myself to join a yoga studio. From the first time I went I was hooked. A tighter tummy was great, but a clear mind was even better.
Step 5: I mentally prepared myself for others' reactions
When someone loses weight, even a few pounds, people notice. So, after six months and over 20 pounds shed, people reacted. I wasn't heavy in a way that was threatening my health or well-being, so others questioned why I was trying to lose weight in the first place. I reassured my parents and close friends this was something positive and that I had everything under control, but everyone else was left to wonder. I found being genuine and kind was the best way to react to people's opinions, both good and bad . . . even though it was annoying.
Step 6: I became OK with never hitting my target weight
Yes, a scale was a good way to measure change in my body, but it wasn't the most important representation of my progress. It was much more about being comfortable in my own skin and dressing in clothes that made me happy. I did have a "goal weight" somewhat in my mind when I changed my lifestyle, but it dissipated from importance when I felt more confident and proud of my body, many pounds away from my original "goal." I never hit my goal weight, and if I ever do I probably won't know, because my scale has found a home in the trash can.
While I no longer use apps to track my diet, I am eternally grateful for how they helped me become the person I am today: a happy, healthy, self-confident yogi.
These Jaw-Dropping BBG Before-and-Afters Will Have You Doing Burpees Before You Finish Reading
The Kayla Itsines BBG program continues to gain popularity, and for good reason! Women the world over are losing tons of weight and getting strong and confident using this fast, effective training program - celebrities included!
Ahead are some of our favorite recent transformations - before and afters that are so good, you'll be dropping to the floor for some push-ups before you're finished seeing all of them. Prepare for mega inspiration!
I Smoked Pot and Then Worked Out at the Gym - Here's How It Went
I smoke pot regularly - every day, in fact. It's my evening ritual after I've packed my gym bag, put away the dirty dishes, and changed into my sweatpants. Although marijuana is the cornerstone of my self-care practice, I had never really thought about whether weed could positively affect other aspects of my life, especially my fitness. But after reading about how marijuana could potentially improve your workouts and recovery time, I decided to give it a shot.
When used properly, weed can reduce inflammation in the body before, during, or after a workout, and it can give you a boost of energy before a sweat session. The key to unlocking these benefits, though, is to be thoughtful about which cannabis products you choose to use. It's important to opt in for products that are higher in CBD and lower in THC so you don't run the risk of feeling too high to function at the gym (or high at all).
For my very first weed workout, I chose to use CBD Vape by Select: Focus CBD Peppermint from Eaze, which has virtually no THC and a hefty amount of CBD, so I knew I wasn't going to deal with any of marijuana's psychoactive properties.
Within a few minutes of puffing on this vaporizer, I felt really, really calm. My entire body went into this relaxation mode, but not one where I couldn't function properly. The peppermint element of this product also woke me up a little bit, and I felt ready for my workout. I went to the gym to do a lower-body strength-training workout.
I felt a little self-conscious when I arrived at the gym, to be honest. I was a little nervous that I wouldn't be able to perform the exercises normally. In reality, that wasn't the case at all, but I still felt a little weird throughout the whole workout, like I wasn't meant to be there - and I couldn't help but be slightly anxious that I was going to drop a dumbbell on my foot.
But I got through the whole workout without a single hiccup! When I got home, I felt like I had crossed something off my bucket list, but that was about it. I honestly didn't feel like my workout was affected much at all. It felt really similar to any other session I've done in the past.
However, the story changed when I started using Papa & Barkley ReLeaf balm, also from Eaze, a product that is designed to ease sore muscles and back pains. I've been dealing with sore hip flexors lately from all the running and deadlifting I've been doing, so rubbing this balm into my muscles made a big difference. It soothed the pain and helped my muscles relax a lot more. Plus, it was a good excuse to give my lower body a nice, long massage.
This balm was especially effective when I used it at night right before bed in conjunction with my favorite vaporizer, Select Skywalker OG, a hybrid strain that's high in both THC and CBD. It helped my mind clear out and forget about the day and, more importantly, it helped my body wind down and relax just in time for bed.
All in all, I don't think I'll ever smoke pot before going to work out again, but I will definitely continue my post-workout recovery regimen that includes cannabis balms and vaporizers. That's where the real magic of marijuana happens for me and my fitness routine.
The 1 Change I Made to Cure 10 Years of Feeling Bloated
Entering college was supposed to be all bliss and excitement, but I had such terrible digestive issues, I wouldn't dare stray far from my dorm bathroom. It was so embarrassing, feeling so bloated and being so gassy, the only person I could confide in was, of course, my mother. In her thick Long Island, NY, accent she said, "Aww, yaw just nervous. You'll feel bettah soon."
But months later, nothing had changed. I felt happier at college than I'd ever felt in my entire life and I was far from nervous. I still felt like sh*t, though. As a vegetarian who lived on cheese, I was lactose intolerant in a major way, so giving up dairy helped. I even gave up gluten but pretty much felt the same - tired and bloated. Every time I ate, I had digestive pains. Plus, I thought being a gluten-free vegetarian would help me drop my college weight gain, but I was actually gaining more weight.
Why? Gluten-free baked goods, breads, pastas, and vegan ice cream and cookies were part of my daily diet, so no wonder the scale numbers were going up. And even after giving up gluten for 10 years, my stomach was still a bloated mess. It wasn't until I ditched the processed junk and started eating more salads, roasted veggies, soups, beans, whole grains, and fruits that I noticed the enormous difference I had been hoping for. I felt energized and lighter, and, most importantly, I had no more belly bloat. I mean NONE. I even started introducing a little gluten back into my diet and still felt amazing.
The cure? Fiber. I wasn't eating close to enough on my junk-food gluten-free, vegetarian diet. I started focusing on getting at least 25 to 30 grams a day, which worked out to at least eight grams at each meal and three to four grams for each of my two snacks. To ensure I get my fill, I add ground flaxseed and berries to my smoothies and baked goods, chia seeds to my overnight oats, use avocado when I make pesto pasta, and add beans, quinoa, and sunflower seeds to my salads.
I was not only free from the chains of feeling bloated, but eating more fiber filled me up and I wasn't nearly as hungry as I had been, which helped me eat fewer daily calories, and in, turn lose weight. Talk about a major win-win, people!
American diets tend to focus on getting more protein and eating fewer carbs, so if you find that you're feeling bloated, gassy, and you can't remember the last time you pooped, check your fiber intake! As a general rule of thumb, make sure to get fiber every time you eat, whether it's through veggies, fruits, nuts and seeds, or whole grains. If you need some meal and snack inspiration, check out these recipes:
My Body Changed Dramatically When I Started Adult Ballet but Not From Weight Loss
Image Source: Unsplash / Kiersten Ramshaw
First position: plié. Once, twice. Relevé, and hold. Balance, plié. Repeat in second, then fifth. What once would have been like another language to me (OK, fair, part of it is in another language) is now a calming repetition I consider the only form of meditation that has ever worked for me. Bonus: my butt is toned as hell.
A couple of years ago, I knew two things to be true: I hated working out, and I loved ballet. Watching ballet, that is. I'd dabbled in dance the way that most 6-year-old little girls do - I donned a sparkly pink tutu for an end-of-year recital (I have photographic evidence of this), tapped and jazzed my heart out for a short stint, and then called it quits when I lost my patience with the monotony of following strict rules and pointing my pink-slippered toes in a creaky old studio.
Despite giving up on my prima ballerina dreams at an early age, I still loved the art itself. Watching it, reading about it, and following dancers I admired for their strength, skill, and, most of all, complete and utter dedication.
So when I began to take an interest in my fitness (I hit my late 20s; it was bound to happen eventually), I tried countless classes and workouts that made me feel miserable and defeated. I wanted to be toned and strong but had no interest doing anything at the cost of my happiness and comfort. I stumbled upon several studios offering adult ballet classes. I assumed this meant for adults who had ballet experience and training from childhood but who decided not to pursue professional careers. I assumed they were at a skill level I couldn't possibly aspire to. Wrong.
Adult ballet isn't about the pounds you'll lose - it's about everything that you will gain.
There are studios in many cities that offer various levels of adult ballet classes, from (very basic!) beginner to advanced and even adult pointe training. Was I willing to put myself out there and explore a part of the fitness world that isn't necessarily as well-known or conventional? What if I was terrible and everyone was dancing circles around me? And how exactly would I feel sporting a leotard and tights?
Well, two years and a lot of late nights at the barre later, I can tell you that taking that first (literal) leap into adult ballet didn't just change my body but my life. My mindset about health and wellness is radically different, and I am more fit than I've ever been. Thanks to the rigorous and challenging nature of ballet, rest assured, you will get a worthwhile workout. I've been able to evolve and grow in a way that's been safe and beneficial for my body as I get older. Ballet, with its rhythm and repetition, its musicality and its simmering heart, is also a solace for those with busy minds who find it hard to turn off their thoughts.
Thanks to the rigorous and challenging nature of ballet, rest assured, you will get a worthwhile workout.
When I came to my first class at the Academy of Ballet in San Francisco, the teacher laid it bare. "You won't lose weight in this class," he said with his characteristic frankness. But adult ballet isn't about the pounds you'll lose - it's about everything that you will gain. Each week, twice a week, I'm not doing hours of cardio so I can lose weight. I am building muscle, toning every last inch of my body: abs, butt, legs, arms, feet, back (oh the beautiful backs ballet dancers have!). I am improving my posture, my balance, my core strength. Taking stairs by two is easy, thanks to improved quad and calf strength. Lugging home bags of groceries is a walk in the park since I spend an entire class holding my arms chest height or above and shaping them into graceful positions. Watching my classmates - adults of all ages, from different backgrounds and places in the world - I can see how far we've come since we shyly shuffled into the studio that first night. My turnout is still far from perfect (one might even say it's far from good), but my mind is clear every time I leave that place, and for me, that is no easy feat.
If you are interested in trying out adult ballet, don't be intimidated. If you've always wanted to do it but thought it was "too late" to start, you're just plain wrong. It's never too late. You will see results you may not expect, and you just might find the type of fitness class you've been looking for.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Hilary White
Runners, Please Don't Skip This After Your Next Run!
You just finished an awesome run, but before you strip down and enjoy a much-deserved shower, stretch out your tired muscles. It will not only feel amazing, but will also keep your muscles supple and can help prevent injury. Here are eight essential stretches to do after a run to target your lower back, quads, hip flexors, and hamstrings.
Cramping Doesn't Just Happen During Your Period - Here's What You Should Know
You're probably well aware of the stomach and back pains that can come along with your period - thank god for heating pads and chocolate! However, you may also experience pain or discomfort for the one or two days that you're ovulating, aka the time when you can get pregnant. We know, you already suffered through three to seven days of pain, so why again? We talked with Stephanie Long, MD, a family medicine physician at OneMedical and one of the district medical directors at the SoMA Clinic in San Francisco, to find out what's really going on that causes mittelschmerz, more commonly referred to as ovulation pain.
Ovulation usually occurs about halfway between two periods, which is about 14 days into a cycle. And for some women, it's a burden. "[The pain is] not uncommon, and I definitely have women who have it and ask about it, but not everyone should be having it," Long said. The good news is that if you are a woman who experiences discomfort, any discomfort is typically dull and lasts no more than a day or so.
The typical period cramp relievers, like ibuprofen and a heating pad, can help if you have mittelschmerz. In the case that the discomfort is more noticeable, anything that suppresses ovulation could alleviate the aches. "Any birth control method would help - like the pill, the NuvaRing, the Nexplanon arm implant - suppress ovulation," Long explained. But keep in mind that nonhormonal methods, like the IUD, would not help.
If pain during ovulation isn't normal to your typical cycle in the first place, Long suggests talking to your provider to rule out more serious explanations. If the pain is interfering with everyday activities, that could be a sign of another condition - such as an ovarian cyst, endometriosis, or pregnancy.
When in doubt, ask your doctor. Trust us, there isn't any question they haven't already heard!
Don't Be Fooled by Low-Impact: These 10 Workouts Incinerate Calories
Injured? Just trying to give your joints a rest? You can still get an incredible workout in! No jumping, no plyo, no pounding the ground - just a great muscle burn (and some serious cardio, if you want!). The best part - it's all low-impact. Let's do this!
The Truth About Whether or Not All That Protein You're Eating Is Affecting Your Weight
When trying to lose weight, many people will turn to high-protein diets. Protein is good for you, right? It helps you feel fuller longer so you're less likely to overeat. It slows down the absorption of sugar, curbing those late-night junk-food cravings, plus it promotes muscle growth.
But recent studies have shown that there is another side to protein dieting. It is quite possible to eat too much protein. A few years ago, a study was published that showed that adults with diets made up of more than 20 percent protein saw a weight gain of 10 percent of their body weights, and too much protein does have the potential to contribute to the risk of both heart disease and high cholesterol levels.
"Your body can turn excess calories from too much protein into fat. Anything in excess can be harmful to you, so it's best to maintain moderation when it comes to your health," Boston University biology research graduate Alyssa Bunce told POPSUGAR. Bunce explains that the bottom line is to keep everything in check. Having chicken or fish for dinner is definitely better for weight loss than something high in carbs and fats; just be sure to get a proper portion of every food group and don't take in more calories than you need.
Conversely, for those looking to gain weight in a healthy manner, protein is a smart way to go. Just remember to be vigilant about continuing intake of other nutrients. Make a protein smoothie, eat salmon or red meat, and drink milk, but also be sure you're getting enough carbs and starches.
Whether you're looking to gain, lose, or maintain weight, it's always important to keep a balanced diet. Too much or too little of anything can be a bad thing.
The 5 Things You Need to Stop Believing About Lifting Heavy Weights
When you take a look around the weight room, men almost always take up the space. We've been conditioned to believe that guys like to pump weights while women go for a run or do yoga. This is a dangerous stereotype to believe; there are some serious benefits to be earned from lifting weights on the regular, especially if you're a woman. Whether you're trying to lose weight or grow some lean muscle, it's time to get friendly with that barbell. Let's start by debunking some common myths.
Myth 1: Weightlifting Makes You Bulk Up
"Most women don't have enough testosterone production in their body to put on huge muscle gains and 'get big,'" explained Lauren Clare, personal trainer and certified holistic health coach. That's because women have way less testosterone in their systems than men do (20 times less, to be exact), and testosterone is one of the primary hormones that promotes muscle growth. So when you see those big, bulky guys at the gym, don't panic, because it's not physically possible for you to turn into the Hulk from a strength-training routine.
Similarly, Clare discourages us from believing the photos you might see in bodybuilding magazines. The buff women you are seeing are taking supplements and training extremely hard, she told POPSUGAR. You won't end up anything like that, even if you lift weights several times a week.
Myth 2: Weightlifting Doesn't Burn Fat Like Cardio Does
If you're only running on the treadmill or hitting the StairMaster, you're not giving your body the tools it needs to burn fat efficiently. The secret to losing weight is gaining lean muscle mass, because this will spike your metabolism throughout the day and help your body burn excess fat. However, sticking to a cardio-only fitness program won't give you the chance to build that necessary muscle, which is why weightlifting is so crucial to overall weight loss.
"When women start strength training for the first time, they usually turn their fat into lean muscle and their body changes in overall composition in a positive way," Clare confirmed. "They become leaner, burn more calories, and most importantly feel much stronger."
Myth 3: It Won't Improve Your Cardiovascular Health
Experts say that a rigorous weightlifting program can be just as much of an aerobic workout as a session on the elliptical machine. Weightlifting also keeps your heart healthy, and Clare said it fortifies your bones as well. Cardio isn't the only way to keep your cardiovascular health in check.
Myth 4: Women Aren't Built to Lift Heavy Weights
You may have been conditioned to think that women aren't meant to lift heavy weights, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Your body is built to do amazing things, and more importantly, it's built to be strong. "Weight training is one of the best ways to get your body toner, stronger, and increase your energy levels," Clare said. This is true no matter what gender you are.
Myth 5: It's Better to Lift Light Weights For More Reps
While there's nothing wrong with lifting light weights for higher reps, keep in mind that the only way you actually gain muscle in your body is by consistently introducing your muscles to change. In other words, if you stick with the same low weights over and over again, your body will plateau out and you won't see any significant weight loss. The more you shock your muscles into getting stronger, the leaner you'll look in the end.
A How-to For Crafting the Ultimate Weight-Loss Salad
We might not be able to make it to Greece or Southern Italy any time soon, but we can bring the cuisine to us by celebrating the Mediterranean diet in our own kitchens. The healthy benefits of the Mediterranean diet are touted by numerous studies, and for good reason: it promotes heart health, good vision, and weight control, to name a few. An easy way to get the Mediterranean diet into your own life is by dressing up an everyday salad with elements of this regional cuisine.
Calling All Bread-Lovers: Here Are the Healthiest (and Tastiest) Brands Out There
There are times in life when your woes can only be cured with a slice of fluffy bread, and you shouldn't be deprived of that joy just because you're trying to maintain a healthy diet. Bread is a highly accessible food wherever you go; you can get your hands on a sandwich or avocado toast at any given time, and there's an entire aisle of the grocery store dedicated to bread. But it can be difficult to sift through all the choices and figure out which is best.
These are the main characteristics you want to look out for when you're bread shopping:
- 110 calories or less per serving
- Two or more grams of fiber
- Three or more grams of protein
- Four grams or less of sugar
- Zero grams of saturated fat
These selections meet all of those criteria - and they taste so delicious, it'll make your head spin.
A Doctor Lays Out the Perfect 12-Week Diet Plan to Lose Weight and Feel Amazing
For pretty much anyone on the planet, the hardest part about losing weight is changing your diet. There are so many different paths to cleaning up what you eat, and there's no one-size-fits-all rule. To help you navigate the weight-loss waters, we spoke to Dr. Luiza Petre, a weight-loss and weight-management specialist and board-certified cardiologist, and she laid out the ultimate 12-week diet plan to help you lose weight and feel your very best.
There are three cycles to this plan, and each of them are laid out ahead. Let's get started!
Golden Milk: The Antidepressant, Debloating, Weight-Loss-Boosting Wonder Drink
Ready to simmer down and give your body a boost before bedtime? We've got the perfect, healthy nightcap for you, and you may have heard of it: golden milk.
Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, golden milk is a combination of the powerful spice turmeric, coconut milk, and sometimes coconut oil. Black pepper is often added (in small amounts) to increase the bioavailability of (i.e., your body's ability to absorb) the superspice turmeric. Creamy and spicy, soothing and warm - this delicious drink is more than just a tasty treat. Rich in electrolytes and digestive-aiding properties, your body is going to love every sip.
- Benefits of Turmeric: Turmeric's benefits are so good, one 2013 study said it's almost too good to be true. The anti-inflammatory spice has "shown therapeutic potential against a number of human diseases," including cancer and could even help with Alzheimer's. Because of the reduced inflammation, turmeric can also help with gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort, and some studies have mentioned its help with weight loss. Also, some studies and sites have shown that turmeric has antidepressant properties, leading to better moods, less stress, better sleep, and improved brain health.
- Benefits of Coconut Oil: Similarly, coconut oil can help with digestion and gut health, thanks to its antimicrobial properties (which come from good fatty acids, MCFAs). The healthy fats can also raise your good cholesterol, HDL.
- Benefits of Coconut Milk: Did you know that coconut milk can also help with digestion? It "nourishes the digestive lining" with natural electrolytes and healthy fats, which can improve gut health and help with IBS. Like turmeric, it can help reduce inflammation and even aid in weight loss. MCTs, another kind of fatty acid, are found in coconut milk and help with physical performance - allowing you to build muscle and lose fat.
Ready to mix up a batch? We like flavoring with a little honey or agave and sometimes a bit of vanilla bean or vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger. You'll be sweetly sipping your way to health in no time!
13 Weight-Loss Motivation Techniques
You've been trying to lose weight for a while now, but it seems like you just can't stay on track. Here are some weight-loss techniques to keep you motivated to reach your goals.
Do These 6 Things If You Want to Ditch Belly Fat For Good
If your waist is the first place pounds tend to creep up on, those are probably the pounds that are the hardest to lose. If you've been blessed with an apple-shaped body and you're looking to slim your middle a bit, here's what you need to do to lose your belly fat.
Be Kind to Yourself
Instagram is an endless source of inspiration, but seeing all those six-packs staring back at you can make you feel really self-conscious if you're struggling with a little belly fat. Remember that we all have a little squishiness, and it in no way measures what an amazing person you are. It's also OK to want a slimmer middle; just be sure you're going about it in a healthy way and setting realistic goals. Talk to yourself the way you'd talk to your best friend. Be positive and love yourself along your journey to a flatter tummy.
Do Cardio, but Not Just Any Kind
Unfortunately you can't pick and choose where you want weight to melt away, so instead of doing crunches, you need to do cardio to lose your overall body fat. While running, biking, and swimming are excellent ways to burn calories, incorporating high-intensity intervals has been proven to target stubborn belly fat. You can add 30- to 60-second speed bursts into your regular workout or try this 45-minute HIIT workout to shrink your belly.
Don't Forget About Your Muscles
Cardio burns fat, but so does having muscle mass. If you want to effectively reduce your body fat percentage, which will help diminish the roundness in your belly, fitness instructor John Kersbergen says you must also include strength training.
Bodyweight moves are great, but to lose weight faster and more efficiently, add weights to your routine. And the order of what you do in the gym matters, too. Natalie Carey, certified trainer and sports nutritionist at DIAKADI Fitness, says to do strength training first, then cardio, since strength training increases the "afterburn effect."
Also, instead of focusing on core-specific moves, do full-body moves like the squat to overhead press. These types of exercises save time by working multiple body parts while simultaneously engaging your core.
Abs Really Are Made in the Kitchen
You've probably heard this before, and it's the truth! You can't outrun a bad diet. If you exercise every day, but your diet is terrible, it'll show. Jade Jenny, head CrossFit coach and owner of Champlain Valley CrossFit, told POPSUGAR, "There are really no exercises to reduce belly fat. Unfortunately, this is the age-old myth. People think they can get abs, and just abs." But here's the truth: "Reducing belly fat ultimately comes down to how you eat." In order to lose belly fat, you need to reduce your overall body fat percentage by dialing in your diet, eating whole foods, ditching the junk, and creating a calorie deficit with portion control.
Be Smart About What You Eat
Processed food and junk food are definitely not going to help you get a six-pack. But there are foods you can eat that are proven to target belly fat. Go for oatmeal, blueberries, MUFA-rich almonds, lean protein like salmon, and fiber-rich greens.
Christmas Abbott, CrossFit competitor and author of The Badass Body Diet ($28), also says that to diminish belly cellulite, "You can't go wrong by dividing your plate into thirds and filling each section with a primo protein, primo carbohydrate, and primo fat." She also suggests ditching processed foods and says to avoid alcohol.
Stress Less
Did you know that stress plays a big role in belly fat? It triggers the production of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that's linked to an increased appetite and more belly fat. Find healthy ways to relax each day, like getting 10 minutes alone to meditate, read your favorite book, or do this tension-melting yoga sequence. If you're anxious or worried, talk to a friend or therapist or write in a journal. And go ahead and treat yourself to a manicure or a massage when you're really stressed. It's good for your mental health - and your belly.
Model credit: @mandymartini
5 Common Reasons You're Waking Up in the Middle of the Night
If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, there could be several possibilities for your disrupted slumber. It could be attributed to certain daytime habits, like drinking coffee too late into your day, or other underlying issues that are worth identifying. Regardless of what's preventing a restful night, it's crucial to think of sleep as a sign of your health, rather than as a means to an end. To figure out why you're waking up in the middle of the night, we looked to Terry Cralle, RN, a registered nurse and certified clinical sleep educator at The Better Sleep Council, for some answers.
1. You're not cutting off caffeine early enough.
If you work a normal 9-to-5 schedule, a good rule of thumb is to switch to noncaffeinated drinks by lunchtime. To many of us, that might not sound doable, especially as soon as that afternoon slump rolls around. But caffeine can remain in your system long into the day. Also keep in mind what that third cup of coffee is telling you.
"If you're relying on caffeine all through the day, you're not getting enough sleep," Cralle told POPSUGAR.
2. It's your nightcap.
Winding down with a glass of wine before bed may initially put you right to sleep, but nightcaps typically result in a restless night. Once you're awake, you stay wide awake long enough for it to affect the rest of your evening's quality of sleep.
"[Having alcohol close to bedtime] will disrupt your sleep later on and really cause it to be fragmented," Cralle said. "And then you can get in a vicious cycle of too much caffeine during the day, so you're going to sort of self-medicate with alcohol at night. Then you wake up exhausted, which requires more caffeine."
Instead, opt for herbal tea or warm milk.
3. It's your bed.
If there's one splurge you can justify, it's a quality mattress and/or pillow. Considering that we spend about a third of our life asleep, it's important to invest in your rest.
"I'm all for getting a really comfortable mattress because it really does make a difference," Cralle said. "You want to make sure you're optimizing your sleep in all ways possible - good sleep equals good wake."
4. It's your sleep environment.
Sometimes, having a supercomfy bed isn't enough. It's also important to consider how you're utilizing your bedroom space. Cralle suggests thinking of your bedroom as a "sleep sanctuary," free of exercise equipment and clutter. Just as how you'd optimize your office for productivity and focus, limit all other bedroom activity to sleep and sex. Keep as much light out of the room as possible at night (the darker, the better) and even consider painting your walls a soothing color.
It could also be factors like allowing your pets to sleep with you. "You've got to really drill down and look at everything to see what's going on," Cralle said.
5. You might have an undiagnosed sleep disorder.
To really identify the reason for your disrupted sleep, log your quality of slumber into a sleep diary as soon as you wake up in the morning. Or, if you have a sleep tracker, follow your progress for two weeks. According to Cralle, there are over 88 sleep disorders, and most people ignore sleep problems without realizing how important sleep is to your health.
"I tell people to view sleep as a vital sign," she said. "I think people should bring up sleep at every single healthcare provider encounter - it's that important and fundamental to our health. If your healthcare provider doesn't bring it up, you bring it up."
The Most Effective Way to Do Plank, According to a Trainer
When you are short on time but want to fit some quality strength moves into your fitness routine, planks are an excellent option and one of the best ways to build strength and stability in your core. One of the most important things to be mindful of when performing planks is correct form, as doing the exercise incorrectly not only won't improve your strength, but it can also eventually lead to discomfort and potential injuries.
"People generally start to feel discomfort in their shoulders, which may indicate that their elbows are not directly beneath them and they have not engaged their core, leading to the shoulders taking a lot more strain then they need to," said Victoria Webster, a certified personal trainer at Suite Time Fitness in Houston. "Another thing to look out for is low back discomfort. This is a sign that your core is collapsing and your back is sagging down."
There are many variations on plank exercises, but one of the most basic is the forearm plank. Follow these steps to ensure you are performing the exercise correctly:
- Find a space in front of a mirror so you can check your form.
- Lie on your stomach, bring your elbows directly under your shoulders, and flip your toes under your feet
- Exhale and lift your body off the ground. Your body should be in one straight line with a flat back, your butt down and your core engaged.
- Actively draw your belly button up into your spine. Your hands can be grasped in a "prayer" position or parallel to each other.
- Check yourself out in the mirror and lift your midsection back into that strong, straight line you had initially
Don't get too preoccupied with how long you can hold a plank, either. "There is no reason, ever, to hold a plank for five minutes. One or two minutes are good goals to work up to; anything more than that and you'll likely begin to lose form," Webster said. "Personally, I like to do several sets of 90- to 120-second planks, alternating with a low back exercise, for balance."
Finally, don't forget to breathe. "As a trainer, I find that when people are doing exercises that are difficult, and especially if they're being timed, they hold their breath. Nice, slow, controlled breathing will help you through the exercise," Webster said.
These Are the 5 Best Plank Variations If You're Trying to Lose Weight
If you want to tone your arms and abs, plank is one of the most effective moves. But aside from building muscle, if you want to lose weight, like that extra fluff around your belly, doing cardio will help burn calories. So try these cardio plank moves to maximize the calorie-burning effects of this basic must-do move.
25 Exercises You Should Be Doing If You Want a Stronger, Firmer Butt
If you're bored with basic squats and lunges, here are some new moves for working your backside. To start targeting your glutes, grab an exercise ball, weights, and a resistance band - your backside will be in tip-top shape in no time!
20 Times Jennifer Lopez's Music Videos Made Our Jaws Hit the Damn Floor
Jennifer Lopez has been in the music industry for almost 20 years, and every time she releases a new song, we know there is going to be a superhot music video to go along with it. Who can ever forget when she wore a fur coat with just underwear underneath in the video for "Jenny From the Block"? Or her multiple sultry moments in the classic "Waiting For Tonight"? The woman just knows exactly how to heat things up. It's an understatement to say we lose our breath every time we see her in a music video. In honor of that, we've put together a countdown of her sexiest moments, ranked from hot to even hotter, because we know better than to think J Lo's sexiness has reached its peak.
Kids Aren't Required to Fast During Ramadan, but My 10-Year-Old Son Is
Ramadan is the holiest month of the year for Muslims. During this time, we're required to fast from sunrise to sunset and abstain from food, water, and sex along with unkind behaviors such as gossiping, getting angry, or being judgmental. Consider it a combination of a spiritual cleanse and extreme intermittent fasting. If this sounds like a grueling month to endure, trust me, it is, and that's exactly the point.
Will this be hard for him? Absolutely. But is he looking forward to the opportunity to foster self-control and gratitude? Absolutely.
I'm often asked why 24 percent of the world's population (that equals to roughly 1.8 billion Muslims) would happily want to partake in this month of rigorous and very restrictive fasting. But the thing is, all major religions have prolonged histories of fasting in the name of God. Aside from Muslims that fast during Ramadan, Roman Catholics fast during Lent, Jews fast during Yom Kippur, and some Hindu women fast weekly for the longevity of their spouse's life. So, every year when Ramadam comes, my entire family fasts, including my 10-year-old son.
I know it can't be easy for my Muslim-American boy. He's slowly coming of age under the presidency of a man who has been quoted as saying, "I think Islam hates us," and has called for a ban of Muslims entering the United States. And I know son is acutely aware of the Islamophobic rhetoric that is especially rampant in our current society and culture. It's in this place of fear that I realize the importance of cultivating my sons' confidence in their religious identity. It's in this place of privilege that I'm able to exercise my constitutionally given right to practice my religion unapologetically and teach my boys to do the same.
Ramadan is supposed to be a time of reflection for Muslims when we try to let go of worldly temptations and look inward through self-control and sacrifice. My 10-year-old son will participate in fasting on Saturdays this year. He'll get up before dawn to have a meal and then abstain from food and water in the blistering heat of a Texas Summer until sunset (which is clocking in at 8:10 p.m. right now).
Will this be hard for him? Absolutely. But is he looking forward to the opportunity to foster self-control and gratitude? Absolutely. Fasting is not mandatory for children, but my son did it last year during Ramadan and felt incredibly proud of the difficult achievement. And on a deeper level, he was actually able to empathize more comprehensively with the 815 million people in the world who go to bed hungry every single night.
Nothing makes me prouder than seeing my child want to carve out his own religious identity, even in the face of adversity and hateful rhetoric. As a mother, I pray his future is full of possibilities in a country that doesn't pigeonhole him because of his faith. As one of the 3.45 million Muslims who live in the United States, I pray that our legacy cultivates peace and nurtures compassion among our fellow Americans.
Editor's Note: This piece was written by a POPSUGAR contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of POPSUGAR Inc. Interested in joining our POPSUGAR Voices network of contributors from around the globe? Click here.
dimanche 10 juin 2018
A Running List of All the Unbelievable Cameos in Ocean's 8
When it comes to Ocean's 8, we already know we're looking at a pretty star-studded feature. After all, the movie's cast of characters is already jam-packed with A-listers including Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Sarah Paulson, and Rihanna. But given the fact that the film's biggest sequence is set at the Met Gala - we learned as much just from the glossy trailers - we should have guessed that we'd be seeing a lot more celebrities in addition to the eight fierce women who lead the film. We did our best to keep track of the most exciting cameos that made it into the final cut. Curious to see who you should be looking out for once the heist kicks into gear? Here's a running list of the famous faces therein.
We Don't Know How It's Possible, but Baby Stormi Gets Cuter and Cuter by the Second
It's only been two months since Kylie Jenner gave birth to her first child, daughter Stormi Webster, with Travis Scott, but we've already gotten so many adorable peeks at the little one. From her first close-up shot to a glimpse of her tiny fingers, baby Stormi looks so much like Kylie when she was a baby that even she agrees. Hopefully Kylie will keep the cute pictures coming!
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