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.
samedi 16 juin 2018
Quick, Delicious, and Perfectly Portioned Breakfast Meal-Prep Ideas
If you tend to grab a scone or a bagel with your morning coffee run, it might be the reason you're feeling sluggish by mid-morning. Meal prepping for the week on Sunday is a must because it not only saves you precious morning minutes, but also ensures you have a delicious, easy, fast, and perfectly portioned meal to start your day. From savory to sweet, high-protein to low-carb, here are some meal-prep breakfast recipes you can try.
Ease That Aching Back With These Soothing Yoga Poses
Whether you woke up with a tight lower back, your desk job has you aching, or you overdid it at the gym, here is a relaxing yoga sequence designed specifically to stretch your lower back. Since tight hips, hamstrings, and shoulders can often trigger discomfort and pain, this sequence will also lengthen those tension spots. Do this series of yoga poses any time your back needs a little extra love.
Satiate Your Sweet Tooth With These Under-150-Calorie Late-Night Treats
Sure, you'd love some one-on-one time with a bowl of ice cream and a spoon, but that late-night treat can pack on over 250 calories. Whether you're craving a sweet, creamy dessert, a homemade cookie, or chocolate-anything, here are healthier ways to indulge so you can enjoy your treat without a dollop of guilt.
I Drank Beachbody's Shakeology Every Morning For 1 Week, and Here's What Happened
I've been a protein powder fiend for as long as I can remember. I love to have a cold, creamy smoothie in the mornings when I'm done with my weightlifting session, and I've tried just about every brand that exists. But there's one I kept hearing about over and over again, and I'd never actually tried it before: Shakeology.
You may have heard of Shakeology at some point because it's made by Beachbody, the ever-reliable platform that gave us P90X, 80-Day Obsession, and Insanity. This all-encompassing protein powder claims to help you lose weight, reduce cravings, give you healthy energy, and support digestion. Those are some pretty big claims, so I drank it every single day for a week to see what would happen.
It Tasted Absolutely Amazing
I don't say this lightly, but Shakeology is by far the best-tasting protein powder I've ever had. I had the chocolate, vanilla, and cafe latte flavors (all vegan since I'm plant-based), and my favorite was the chocolate. The cafe latte was a close second, but the chocolate flavor tasted positively like a creamy milkshake.
My smoothie was pretty simple: Shakeology, almond milk, one spoonful of nut butter, a handful of spinach (which is why it's green in the picture), and ice. I wanted to savor every single sip of it!
It Had a Lot More Nutrients Than I Realized
Not all protein powders are created equally. I didn't realize until I glanced at the label that Shakeology actually has a ton of good sh*t in it, in addition to the protein blend, which is made up of chia seeds, pea protein, sacha inchi, quinoa, rice, and oats. There's also a proprietary superfruit antioxidant blend, a supergreen phytonutrient blend, an adaptogen blend, and a pre- and probiotic digestive enzyme blend. Like I said, good sh*t. By the third day, I didn't even feel the need to add in that handful of spinach anymore.
I Had a Ton of Energy
Shakeology promises to give you a boost of energy so you can get through your day and crush your workouts. I thought it was all just part of the marketing ploy, but I genuinely noticed a difference after I drank my shake in the morning. My mood was slightly elevated, I felt like I recovered well from my workouts, and I didn't get any kind of afternoon crash later in the day.
I Was Full All the Way Until Lunch
I tend to struggle with late-morning hunger, even on the days when I eat a big breakfast. But Shakeology was so filling that I didn't even think about eating until lunchtime hit. This prevented me from snacking mindlessly or grabbing packaged food because I was hungry and in a pinch.
I Didn't Notice Any Change in My Trips to the Bathroom
There are six grams of fiber in each serving of Shakeology, which makes up 24 percent of your recommended daily intake. Although this is a good serving of fiber, it didn't make much of a difference. I didn't poop any more or any less than I normally do, but that doesn't necessarily mean it won't have a positive effect on someone else.
After my week-long love affair with Shakeology, I didn't want it to end. I'm still drinking the smoothie whenever I can, although maybe not every single day, and perhaps I'll see even more positive changes after a couple more weeks.
10 Tips For a Stronger and Flatter Midsection
If your belly is the one place where fat just won't disappear, while there's no magic one-step cure, here are some must dos that are proven to whittle your middle.
I Practice Intermittent Fasting, and This Is What 1 Week of My Food Looks Like
When people find out I do intermittent fasting, where I only eat from noon to 7 p.m. and fast the rest of the day, and that I'm vegan, they always want to know what the heck I eat!
Although I don't eat breakfast, I eat lunch, a snack, and dinner. And just like any healthy eating plan, prepping food ahead of time is key. If I don't take a few hours each Sunday to plan out my meals, shop, wash, cut, and cook, then I'm likely to eat bowls of cereal for every single meal. I also find if I'm scrounging around for meals, I tend to overeat, so this helps keep my portions in check.
The entire process of meal prep is actually very calming for me. I love looking for new recipes on Instagram, writing out my detailed list, strolling through the grocery store aisles, and listening to music while I chop and prep. Meal prep is like self-care for me because it's the one time during the week I can devote to me, it ensures I eat healthy all week long, and it sets the tone for other healthy choices throughout the week.
Since I don't eat dairy or meat, planning ahead ensures I get my daily fill of protein, as well as healthy fats and carbs. Come with me into my kitchen, and take a peek at what I prep on Sunday afternoons so I have a week full of nutritious, delicious food for the next five days.
Let Your Abs Say Ahh With These Stretches
After an intense session of core exercises, your abs are screaming for relief. Here are some stretches you can do right after working your abs to help relieve soreness the next day.
33 Pieces of Disney Workout Gear That'll Get You Pumped . . . Princess-Style
In the fitness world, not even mermaids should skip leg day! That's why we've rounded up some of the cutest Disney-inspired workout gear, from muscle tanks to breathable leggings, that'll inspire you to get pumped . . . princess-style. If you're a hardcore Disney fanatic, you won't be able to scroll through this list of magically stylish exercise clothes without buying something. As Ariel would say, "Look at this stuff; isn't it neat?"
9 Ways to Feel Happier and Fight Stress
Whether it's the Winter blues or you're just in a slump, we all go through emotional ups and downs. It's OK! We don't always feel joyful all the time. But when you're ready to kick that sadness to the curb and pick yourself back up, these quick, easy, and free techniques will help put a smile on your face. Now let's get happy!
Want to Start Running? These Are the 12 Things You Need to Do
You're ready to lace up your sneaks and hit the ground running. After getting the OK from your doctor or trainer, here are 12 things you need to do to help you get started, fall in love, and prevent injury - so you can keep running for years to come.
25 Amazing Yoga Poses Most People Wouldn't Dream of Trying
We've all had a Polly or Peter Pretzel in our yoga class, and admit it - you can't help but ogle a little at their awe-inspiring strength and flexibility. It's inspirational, and it gives a little insight into what years of practice can lead you to. But let's face it: some poses are just flat-out out of the question. Get ready to be wowed when you see these amazing advanced yoga poses. Would you try them?
The Pros and Cons of Skipping Breakfast Before Your Morning Workout
Skipping breakfast to save calories? The idea seems logical - the less you eat, the faster you'll lose weight. But it's not as simple as that.
There are recent studies that show working out on an empty stomach offers benefits. It can increase insulin sensitivity, which makes it easier to lose fat, and can also increase the human growth hormone, which helps build muscle tissue. Running on empty can also make your body more efficient at using up its energy stores and help the body absorb the carbs and protein you eat after a workout instead of storing it as fat.
But other studies show that doing fasted workouts can impair performance. Since you have no fuel in your body, you won't have the energy to exercise as long or as intensely as you would if you had eaten, which can translate to less overall calories burned. You won't lose any weight if you bonk out of a workout within five minutes of starting it.
It's good to remember that everyone is different, and the best thing you can do is check in with your body during workouts. You might find that you are more than fine going for a run in the morning without grabbing a bite to eat first. But if you can't push yourself as hard, your energy levels start to wane halfway through your workout, or you feel insanely tired afterward, that's your cue to have a small snack before heading out. Choose one that focuses on simple carbs rather than protein to offer your body fuel.
An hour before a workout, eat around 45 grams of carbs with a small amount of protein:
- Half a slice of whole wheat bread with one tablespoon crunchy peanut butter
- Some crackers with an ounce of cheese
- Quarter cup of sliced grapes mixed into half a cup of cottage cheese
- Fruit smoothie made with soy milk
- Quarter cup of blueberries mixed with half a cup of yogurt
If you have less time, 15 to 30 minutes before your workout, eat about 25 grams of carbs:
- Small banana
- A few crackers
- Handful of raisins
- Applesauce
If you skip out on a snack altogether, be sure to at least hydrate with some water.
27 Healthy Chinese Recipes That Beat Any Takeout Menu
If there's one thing we know, it's that switching up what we eat and trying out new recipes make eating healthy a whole lot easier. So, instead of reaching for the phone to order a sodium-filled meal of sesame chicken, just make a better version yourself! There are plenty of healthy, easy Chinese food recipes that will become your new "takeout," and we have them for you here.
11 Steps to Help You Crush Your Handstand Goal
Learning how to do a Handstand is an awesome goal for 2018! Talk about a total-body move - Handstands strengthen your upper body and your core, and they challenge your sense of balance. Plus, being upside down is a fun way to get a new perspective on life and lift your mood!
Even though Handstands are probably something you used to do as a kid, they can totally be mastered as an adult - just follow these steps.
5 Ways to Stretch Your Calves (a Must For Runners and Heel-Wearers!)
The calves are one of the most overused and overlooked muscles in the body, and if you wear heels, run regularly, or both, stretching your calves is a must, since tight, shortened calves can lead to injury. These five calf stretches can be done almost anywhere, so click through to learn how to do them and then add these stretches to your daily routine!
If You Want to Slim Your Waist, These Are the 13 Best Side Plank Variations
You can skip the crunches because plank is one of the most effective core-carving poses. But don't forget to spend a little time on your obliques by adding these side plank variations to your strength-training routine.
Feel Your Strongest From This 45-Minute Flat-Belly Running and Strength Workout
Let's get down to business because you don't have a lot of time! This workout takes 45 minutes from start to finish, and because it incorporates both intervals and strength training with weights, it'll help diminish belly fat and leave you lean and strong. After the run is finished, you'll just need one or two sets of medium-weight dumbbells (5 to 15 lbs). Let's get started!
Running Workout: 35 minutes total (includes warmup and cooldown)
Directions: Do this workout on a treadmill or outside in the fresh air - it's up to you. After warming up, perform the 2.5-minute run/sprint interval 10 times, then end with a cooldown before grabbing your free weights.
| Time | Pace |
|---|---|
| 5 minutes | Warmup: walk, try this active warmup or do these 4 dynamic yoga moves |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 1 minute | Run moderately (4.5-6.0 mph) |
| 30 seconds | Sprint (about 7-10 mph) |
| 5 minutes | Cooldown (3 mph) |
Strength Training Workout: 10 minutes
Directions: Complete each of the 10 exercises below for 30 seconds each (descriptions and photos below). Since this workout is driven by time, and not reps, you want to make sure you're performing these moves with correct form, but also pushing yourself fast enough to feel your muscles burning (we know you can do more than two squats in 30 seconds!). If you need to stop and rest, that's OK. It's also OK to go for lighter weights if you need to - that's why it's helpful to have two sets. Eventually if you perform this workout enough, you'll get so strong that you won't need to stop!
- Dumbbell Thrusters
- Reverse lunge with biceps curl
- Bent-over row
- Goblet squat
- Romanian deadlifts
- Bicep curl with side lunge
- Push-up and rotate
- Bridge with chest press
- Overhead reach with leg lower
- Double crunch pulse
15 Mason Jar Salads That Will Transform Your Lunchtime
A crisp, crunchy salad makes the perfect lunch, but here's a secret: packing your meal in a mason jar actually makes it taste better. Why, you ask? Layering your favorite mix-ins and dressings helps keep your meal from getting soggy ahead of time. It's no matter if you prefer a hearty and sweet salad with grains or a refreshing mix that features the flavors of zesty guacamole; these 15 recipes will help you step up your lunches (or dinners) for good.
- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry
Disney's Glittery Pineapple Cotton Candy Is the Size and Shape of the Actual Fruit
Disney knows a thing or two about pineapple desserts. There are pineapple doughnuts, cotton candy, soft serve, and the new pineapple churros with marshmallow dipping sauce. You may have caught that we said Disney already has pineapple cotton candy, but the theme park just released another version that's certainly a sight to behold.
Available at Downtown Disney's Cotton Candy Creations for $8, the new treat is much larger than the park's usual cotton candy and comes in the shape of an actual pineapple! It's also typically topped with a festive mini umbrella or pineapple leaves. Ahead, see pictures of the delicious summertime dessert.
25 Feel-Good Books That Will Boost Your Mood
Dark, somber, cynical books can make for great reads - A Series of Unfortunate Events was downright epic - but you have to be in the mood for them. If you're already feeling a bit on the gloomy side, it's not the best idea to crack open a dreary read. However, we do recommend you immerse yourself in a happy one! Thus, here are 25 great books that will instantly lift your sad cloud to reveal sunshine for days.
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.
10 Things You Should Never Say to Your Partner
Parenting can be hard. Between sleep deprivation, temper tantrums, and strong-willed personalities, it's not always easy to know what to do. Our partners in this parenting journey deserve to be treated with respect and trust, even through fits of anger. There are a few things that under no uncertain circumstances should you say to your coparent, even if you really, REALLY want to. Your relationship, and your kids, will be better off if you avoid these 10 harsh phrases altogether.
11 Genius Jewelry Boxes That Will Help You Stay Organized
If you have more jewelry than you know what to do with, but you're not quite ready to part with any of it, it's time to get organized. By using a jewelry box or beautiful case, you can display all your favorite items while keeping them safe so they're not misplaced. We rounded up a list of handy (and cute) picks that will motivate you to clean up your accessory collection. So whether you're looking for your bedroom or bathroom, we found everything from a standing mirror to hidden book box. Shop these unique and useful finds.
Jaw-Dropping Then-and-Now Photos of the Twin Sisters Who Gave Birth 15 Minutes Apart
Twin sisters Corey Struve Talbott and Katie Struve Morgan knew they were expecting their babies 10 days apart, but when they unexpectedly gave birth on the same day and within just 15 minutes of each other, they couldn't have been more shocked. Before giving birth to Indie Mae and Ryatt Rae, Corey and Katie took stunning maternity photos in blue gowns to commemorate going through pregnancy at the same time. A year later, the sisters slipped on the same dresses and grabbed their 1-year-old girls to re-create their maternity shoot.
"I photographed Corey and Katie's maternity photos last year. I thought it was so sweet that two sisters got to experience such a special time together," Brenden Boggs of So Cute Photo told POPSUGAR. "Even though their due dates were a few weeks apart, they ended up giving birth on the same day only 15 minutes apart! We all joke that they are twin-cousins!"
With Indie and Ryatt celebrating their first birthdays, Brenden thought it would be fun to re-create Corey and Katie's maternity shoot with the girls, and the twins loved the idea. "We were cracking up at how loose the dresses were," Corey told POPSUGAR of the now-iconic blue dresses.
"It was so much fun to see how much life can change in a year," Brenden said. "Now Corey and Katie have two beautiful baby girls full of personality, and they all can't wait to see what adventures the next year of toddlerhood brings!"
Ahead, see the gorgeous photos Brenden took of the moms and their little ones plus a YouTube video of the twins' birth stories, and follow Indie and Ryatt on Instagram for daily doses of cuteness.
8 Trader Joe's Chocolate Bars That Would Impress the Crap Out of Willy Wonka
Desserts from Trader Joe's - like its magnificent mochi or gooey cookie butter - are always a good idea. But when you are on the go and want a treat that you can unwrap in a jiffy, you need a good old-fashioned chocolate bar. Seriously, have you ever tried to eat cookie butter while driving? Bad idea. Luckily, the store offers unique chocolate sweets that you'll love to keep stowed away for dessert cravings whenever they may hit. Keep reading for eight standouts that will have your mouth watering in no time.
Not Sure What Wine to Grab From Trader Joe's? Here Are 16 Tasty Options
While Trader Joe's may be the best thing in the world for great bargains, healthy options, unique foods, and really fun people-watching, the store also carries a wide variety of wines. From red blends to Champagne, its wine selection can meet the needs of any dinner party, brunch, or night in.
Also a big win? The price. The bottles are usually a bargain, and although you may be going for something a little bit finer, there is just something about grabbing a bottle of Two Buck Chuck for good measure that makes the college kid in me smile. (OK, I still drink it sometimes and I'm well into my 30s.) Check out our definitive list of the best bottles of wine you can find at Trader Joe's.
The 16 Cheeses You HAVE to Get From Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's cheese section is a magical place where some of the toughest decision-making happens. If your idea of a good time involves a cheese plate and a glass of wine, you've probably spent time mentally debating which cheese deserves a spot in your shopping cart. We've been there too, so we're featuring our editors' 16 favorite cheeses from Trader Joe's so you know what you absolutely have to pick up the next time you're in the market for a new cheese (and yes, it was hard to narrow it down). See which Trader Joe's cheeses you've already tried and discover potential new favorites, ahead.
10 Trader Joe's Hummus Dips, Ranked From Best to Worst
As a versatile, simple, and healthy dip, hummus has taken the world by storm, and Trader Joe's does not disappoint in its inventory of different flavors. Aside from a classic dip, there are so many great ways to use hummus, like as a dressing or even added into soup. When searching for all the bean dips in the store, I found nine different hummus flavors and one other black bean dip, so I've ranked all 10 from best to worst. If you're feeling inspired to make your own, check out these unusual hummus recipes (or dream up your own).
12 Tips From Ina Garten That Will Make You a Better Cook
Ina Garten: queen of the culinary world. She's written tons of cookbooks, starred in Food Network's Barefoot Contessa for over a decade, and won fans over with countless foolproof recipes. The woman knows a lot, and lucky for you and me, she's never shied away from sharing her advice. Read on for her best cooking tips. Before long, you'll be the one saying, "How easy is that?"
- Follow recipes to a T. When Epicurious asked her if she follows recipes when cooking at home, she said, "Exactly. To the half teaspoon. I measure everything, because I always think that if I've spent so much time making sure this recipe was exactly the way I want it, why would I want to throw things into a pot? I'm really a scientist."
- Respect ingredients. Simple is better, especially when cooking with fresh produce. "Buy things in season, and then only do what you need to do to make [food] taste as good as it can taste," she told Epicurious.
- Add coffee to chocolate. If you've ever seen Ina's recipe for brownies, you know she's a fan of enhancing the flavor of chocolate. "If you add coffee to chocolate, it gives it a depth of flavor," she said.
- When in doubt, add a little acidity. "Sometimes you taste something delicious, but a little hit of lemon juice or lemon zest or vinegar will just sort of wake it up," she explained.
- When entertaining, set out simple snacks instead of making elaborate appetizers. In an interview with IndieBound, she said, "I serve very simple nibbles like roasted cashews and good olives - nothing wrapped in phyllo. I never serve a first course, just a delicious dinner and dessert."
- Relaxing meals are simple meals. When asked what kind of meal she enjoys when she wants to relax, she said, "My favorite meal is a simple roast chicken with vegetables in the roasting pan.
- Don't be afraid to keep seasoning and tasting until your recipe is just right. When talking about her recipes with Food and Wine, she explained, "I just want something really, really flavorful, and I just keep going and going and testing things over and over again until I hear that sort of ping in my head that says, 'That's the flavor I'm looking for.' . . . I keep going until it's exactly what I'm looking for."
- Add salt to your microwaveable oatmeal. Ina is not ashamed to admit she eats quick-cooking oatmeal, but her tip from Bon Appétit makes all the difference: "Most people don't do their oatmeal with salt, and I think that without it, it just tastes like wallpaper paste. With salt, I think it's delicious."
- Riff off of your staple recipes. "I would say pick five recipes that are really simple - like roast chicken, macaroni and cheese, grilled fish - then do variations on those five recipes," Ina told Bon Appétit. If you can make macaroni and cheese, you can make lobster macaroni and cheese. . . . I think people get too complicated and spend too much time trying to impress everybody."
- Season your food throughout - not just at the end of - the cooking process. "It enhances the flavor of whatever you're cooking and makes food taste seasoned - not salty," she told Redbook.
- Think about every detail of a dinner party before it starts. Along with other hosting advice Ina gave The Kitchn, she said, "Music is the first key. Make sure there's music, so it feels like a party when people walk in the door. Put the drinks out on a bar so people can serve themselves."
- Make meals ahead of time as often as possible. She didn't write Make It Ahead: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook for nothing. Ina preaches the value of make-ahead recipes from a time- and stress-saving standpoint, but she also notes that some meals taste even better when they've had time to sit. "Salads like the quinoa tabbouleh with feta are better because the vinaigrette and freshly squeezed lemon juice really soak into the quinoa," she told Today Food.
200+ Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the type of person who hates to throw anything away, then turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects.
- Additional reporting by Emily Co
35 Unique Travel Tattoos to Fuel Your Eternal Wanderlust
Warning: Only committed travelers allowed. If you have a never-ending case of wanderlust, this awe-inspiring ink is perfect for you. Check out all 35 of our most favorite tattoos from those who roam the globe.
11 Things Not Worth the Money
You work hard for your money, so spending it on things that just aren't worth it is a total waste. When it comes down to it, you're better off putting your cash toward some expenses than throwing it away on others. I'd rather put my money elsewhere than spend it on these 11 things that aren't worth it to me.
11 Things You Will Regret in Your 30s
What better way to learn than from those who have been there and done that? A Reddit thread had people chiming in on things they regret doing (or not doing) in their 30s. Whether you are about to embark on the exciting journey of your 30s or nearing the tail end, learn from those in the know.
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.
7 Ways to Make Your Small Bathroom Feel Spacious
Designing a small bathroom can be challenging, especially if you are on a budget. The best way to make it more functional is to increase the floor space while allowing all the essentials to fit in the right way. Although renovating the entire bathroom according to your needs is a good option, it can be really expensive, mainly if you want to entirely change the plumbing. But if you are on a limited budget, you can still add a lot of space to make it more functional. Here are seven ways to do it!
11 Ingenious Pampered Chef Products That Will Make Cooking So Much Easier
Admittedly, I barely know how to cook. When I successfully make a delicious meal without burning myself or the food, I consider it an enormous accomplishment and send a proud photo to my parents and post it to Instagram for all to see. One brand that has helped me hone my food skills significantly, however, is Pampered Chef.
The brand was founded in 1980 with the aim of making cooking easier and more enjoyable, and so far I've been super impressed by the products. Each item is designed with what seems to be every possible use and solution in mind. The line features pans with removable handles (for easy storage!) that are dishwasher safe and gadgets that help to solve every kitchen problem imaginable. Thanks to the brand, my learning process has gone smoothly and hasn't resulted in any severe injuries yet.
36 Disney World Hacks That Will Make Your Trip Even More Magical
Want to avoid the long Walt Disney World lines in the sweltering heat of a Florida Summer? We can help with that. Some of the park's biggest fans came together on two Quora threads to offer tips and tricks for making your trip to Disney World even more magical - and more economical, too. These hacks will help you navigate the parks, find the best deals, and make the most of the happiest place on the planet.
25 Feel-Good Books That Will Boost Your Mood
Dark, somber, cynical books can make for great reads - A Series of Unfortunate Events was downright epic - but you have to be in the mood for them. If you're already feeling a bit on the gloomy side, it's not the best idea to crack open a dreary read. However, we do recommend you immerse yourself in a happy one! Thus, here are 25 great books that will instantly lift your sad cloud to reveal sunshine for days.
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.
11 Next-Level Ceviche Recipes So You Can Have a Cool and Delicious Rest of the Summer
Nobody likes turning on the oven or stove when it's can-fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk scorching hot, which is what makes these creative ceviche recipes so incredibly satisfying - and your new menu for the next few months. Packed with fresh seafood, zippy citrus juice, and just the right amount of herbs and chiles, these no-heat-required ceviches should be in everyone's back pocket.
7 Latina Fashion Bloggers Who Created Their Own Brands
Latina bloggers are taking over one day at a time. The seven names ahead have taken that extra step, above their YouTube channels and already buzzy blogs, to create their own businesses and kickstart what we're predicting will be an empire. From fashion lines to sunglasses collections, you can truly copy their style by shopping their designs. Keep scrolling to see which Latina bloggers are business owners.
10 Beauty Products Your Abuela Swears By That Actually Work
Although we might not always want to admit it, yes, our abuelas tend to know best. While grandmothers are usually eager to impart wisdom on everything from relationships to career choices to health problems, they've also got some great beauty tricks in their arsenal, or rather, carteras.
Keep reading for the 10 beauty products your abuela probably owns and loves . . . and you should, too.
- Additional reporting by Vivian Nunez
A Latina Invented Your Favorite Beauty Tool - Yes, the Beautyblender!
Backstage at Fashion Week, in the suitcases of your avorite supermodels, and even in your own makeup bag, chances are you'll find a familiar pink teardrop sponge.
The Beautyblender is a phenomenon. Today, seventeen sponges are sold every minute, and over 325,000 YouTube videos have been created around the makeup tool. That is even more impressive considering that when the sponge first appeared in stores in 2003, it was basically a one-woman operation: a very resourceful and skillful woman named Rea Ann Silva, a Latina makeup artist with more than 20 years of experience.
"My mother is Mexican, and my dad was Portuguese and Irish. I was brought up in Los Angeles with my mom's family. I identify 100 percent as being Latina," Silva said when we caught up with her over the phone to talk about her invention. "My mother never wore makeup. She thought I would be good in fashion, so she enrolled me into the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising." There, Silva says she quickly realized it was the sketching and drawing she loved the most, so she got herself a job at a makeup counter.
That's where it all began for her. She met the right people and started working on music video sets with singers like Rod Stewart, then made the jump into television and film, working with Vivica A. Fox in Set It Off. Finally, in 2000, she was running the makeup department for the first TV show filmed in high-definition: CBS's Girlfriends featuring Tracee Ellis Ross.
I'd spend hours cutting the sponges into the tear shape by hand, and they'd disappear from the trailer!
The idea for the Beautyblender came to Silva in the makeup trailer on the set of Girlfriends. "I would airbrush everyone in the morning, but by the end of the day, the makeup looked heavy," she says. "I couldn't bring the airbrush kit to set, so the team would do touch-ups with sponges. It was hard to keep a light hand. I found this special-effects sponge used to apply prosthetics and started wetting it like film makeup artist Kelcey Fry used to do. I realized that the smoother sponge would absorb less foundation once wet and created a natural finish. I'd spend hours cutting the sponges into the tear shape by hand, and they'd disappear from the trailer! Makeup artists and actors were taking them home." That's how she knew the invention had potential.
Read on to learn 10 surprising things about Rea Ann Silva and the cult beauty brand that has inspired hundreds of viral tricks.
14 Everyday Struggles of Bilingual Latinas
I speak 2.5 languages. I'm fluent in Spanish (my birth language) and English, and I know enough Italian to help a lost tourist on the subway. Though being able to communicate in more than one tongue has its serious benefits - there are more jobs available to me, I have an easier time when traveling abroad, some studies even say we're smarter (tooting my own horn here) - there are struggles. Boy, are there struggles.
More than once, I have spoken Spanish to someone who has no idea what I'm saying, and words have come out of my mouth in a total jumble of Spanglish that not even I understand. Minor issues, sure, but if you're bilingual, you know it doesn't end there. Keep reading for a list of the everyday situations you probably also face - bilinguals, unite!
15 Things That Will Make Sense If You Are a Latina With Curly Hair
If you have naturally curly hair, you likely grew up just like me: People (ahem, your tías, perhaps) were constantly offering unsolicited advice on how to make it "less puffy." You spent half your allowance (and now paycheck) on styling products to keep it under control and even occasionally broke a hairbrush or two, immediately entering a state of frustration no straight-haired woman could ever understand.
Growing up, I hated my curls. But then I learned how to properly style them, and that was it; I never looked back. Don't get me wrong, the struggle is still very real most days, but sometimes there's nothing left to do but laugh. Read on for 15 common struggles we're sure you can relate to if your hair is curly.
My Dad Was an Undocumented Immigrant - and My Biggest Inspiration
My father's story proves timing is everything. Whether it's falling in love, or just looking for a parking space on the busy streets of Los Angeles, timing can be the one ingredient that can alter a situation for better or worse. But what if I told you that timing can truly change lives? And that it can also destroy them?
My dad was only 14 years old when he crossed the Mexican border, or as Latinos like to joke, when the "border crossed him." Coming into the country with almost nothing, my father juggled multiple jobs as a busboy before attending night school to learn English at 18. A sharp student by nature, he learned English fairly quickly. By the time he was 20, he could converse with his American-born co-workers fluently, with little-to-no accent.
My father worked two jobs while I was in elementary school, one in construction, and a weekend job delivering pizzas. He worked many hours, all of the money going towards a private school my younger brother and I attended. I remember the most popular girl in my grade coming up to me to tell me that my father had delivered a pizza to her house over the weekend. I knew she did this to embarrass me. It didn't work.
It wasn't until I was in middle school that my father started reevaluating his life and what he wanted to do - not just as a father and husband, but as an individual. We had many conversations about his passions and interests during my childhood. While he always insisted that I pursue a college education, I couldn't help but wonder what my dad would have wanted to be if his home country had granted him the same opportunities mine did. Once, I asked him. "A doctor," he told me.
Two weeks shy of my 12th birthday, my father took the second biggest risk of his life and bought a Mexican restaurant. It was his first career move, and it was quite a big one.
What followed was a collection of many wins, losses, and, in 2008, one of the worst business years the restaurant would ever see during the economic rut. But even after all of the good days, slow days, and slower days, my dad still managed to successfully run a business for 13 years, bringing culture to the city he immigrated to and creating jobs - and damn good mole - for his community.
Yet, it still never really occurred to me just how successful my dad was, not by means of money, really, but by means of hard work.
I once dated a Caucasian guy whose father had been a rocket scientist. We were talking about college one day, and he proudly told me all about his father's alma mater, asking me where my father attended college. I told him he didn't. In fact, my father had only a sixth-grade education. My boyfriend's jaw dropped.
My dad is actually the epitome of the American dream.
I realized then and there that my dad was actually the epitome of the American dream. He not only created a home, became a businessman and sent his daughter to college, but he also became a beloved member of his community.
But as much as my father's success is credited to his sacrifices and hard work, my father was only really able to fulfill his dream because of one very critical element: the government.
In 1986, my father - along with 2.7 million undocumented immigrants - was granted a green card. This was thanks to the Reagan administration's Immigration Reform and Control Act, which made any immigrant who'd entered the country before 1982 eligible for amnesty. It was one of the largest immigration reform sweeps in this country's history, and it was great news for my father, who had entered the country in 1981.
My dad was allowed to apply for citizenship six years later; something that would help him greatly during his business loan application process years later.
It was hard work, sacrifice, and ultimately this country's immigration policy in the '80s that helped my father achieve the American dream.
It was hard work, sacrifice, and ultimately this country's immigration policy in the '80s that helped my father achieve the American dream. It was timing. Yet, if President Donald Trump's deportation efforts and his threat of an executive order to block federal funding to sanctuary cities are proof of anything, not every immigrant who enters the US with the goal to work will be granted the same aid my father received. Not every undocumented immigrant who comes here to work long hours, doing the jobs nobody wants to do, will be given a break by the country they gave their labor and life to.
In fact, some will actually be deported even after spending decades here, like Guadalupe Garcia de Rayos. The mother of two US-born children, who was living in Arizona for 20 years, was sent back to Nogales, Mexico days after Trump issued an executive order changing deportation priorities.
Yes, my father came into this country illegally. Yes, he lived in the US undocumented for several years; but he also cleaned your dishes, delivered your food, and helped build your buildings. He got to live out his American dream thanks to a reform that, though it was slightly flawed, helped situate many immigrants. He came into this country at arguably the right time. I wish I could say the same for everyone else.
30+ Songs in Spanish For Your Father-Daughter Wedding Dance
If you were one of the lucky ones (or unlucky ones, depending on your outlook) to have had a quinceañera, your wedding won't be the first time you have a father-daughter dance in front of a hall full of the people you love. Nonetheless, this is a special time! It has the makings to be one of the most beautiful, shared moments between you and your dad (or just a loved fatherly figure).
The perfect song will add to the already magical backdrop. That's why we've put together the list of all lists with Latin music classics like "Es Mi Niña Bonita" by Vicente Fernández and modern tunes like "Tu Guardián" by Juanes. Keep reading to surely find the right tune for your father-daughter wedding dance.
What It Was Like to Be a Teen in Tijuana During the '90s Drug Wars
While teenage girls in San Diego struggled with peer pressure, my biggest concern on the other side of the border was never knowing if I was dating a narco. This was my life as a teen growing up in Tijuana, Mexico, when partying among drug lords was normal. But growing up in that tough and violent environment made me a better woman and a better mom.
I grew up along the Mexican border, and like any girl my age, I would sometimes sit by the phone, waiting for a call from a boy I liked or was dating. But I'll never forget the one phone call that was like no other I've ever received. The guy called to say he wasn't going to be able to make our date on Saturday, simply saying, "I'm away." That was the last time I spoke with him. A few months later, I found out he had been killed. That last phone call had come from prison.
My experience dating or partying with narcos wasn't unusual in the '90s. This was the decade of the Arellano Félix brothers, or Tijuana Cartel, which the US government once considered one of the biggest and most violent criminal organizations in Mexico. The Mexican drug cartel brought violence to what had been a very peaceful community: my hometown. In a matter of two years, El Cártel de Tijuana had covered the streets of the border city with blood. Seeing people killed was as common as seeing a taco shop in Mexico.
I was still like any other 17-year-old girl who wanted to party with her girlfriends and meet boys. In the '90s, the place to be was Baby Rock, a megasize club that attracted big names and people with lots of money, and I was there almost every Saturday, dressed in high heels and a Lycra dress, and wearing lots of hairspray. (Yes, I said Lycra. After all, nothing shows your curves better when dancing!)
At Baby Rock, it was common to see the richest people in Mexico, celebrities as well as drug lords. It wasn't unusual to see members of the Arellano Félix Cartel in the best seats at the club, drinking champagne. The Arellano Félix brothers were very popular among Tijuana society, and pretty girls were dazzled by the expensive cars and VIP treatment. I was actually invited more than once to sit at the Arellano Félix brothers' table at Baby Rock, but I never accepted.
I wasn't even a big fan of drinking; as a teenager, my quest was to find the love of my life - a task difficult for any girl my age, but for me almost impossible! Don't get me wrong: I was a catch, if I do say so myself. My obstacle was that any guy I dated had to pass my dad's "background check."
I have three sisters, and my dad always gave us freedom about who we dated. But in the '90s, he faced the most difficult task of his life: to protect his girls from dating drug lords. As a Latinx family, we had lots of family time, and on Sundays, it was our tradition to have breakfast together. Over breakfast, my dad would always ask me the same question: "Tania, how was Baby Rock?" I knew that what he really wanted to know was, "Who did you meet?"
I would tell him the names of the guys I met, and he would do his background check . . . meaning he would ask around who knew this or that guy, what he did, and if he was a drug dealer. At that time, it wasn't very difficult to find out who the narcos were; everyone knew where they lived, what cars they drove, where they liked to eat, etc. A few days after our Sunday conversation over breakfast, my dad would give me the results of his background check, and the answer was either "Tania, he's fine," or "Tania, you can do whatever you want, but he is a narco." I always listened to my dad. He wasn't a dictator; he was protecting me. So unless he said, "He's fine," I wouldn't date the guy; narcos were never my thing.
But it wasn't always easy to say no to dating a narco. One time, an extremely cute and charming guy (think Brad Pitt in his younger years) knocked on my door. My mom opened the door, told me I had a visitor, and said, "I don't like him." My mom's sixth sense never failed, but I dated him anyway, even though my own instincts told me to be careful. I'd heard rumors that he was a narquillo, which is someone who works for a drug lord. But every girl in Tijuana wanted to date this guy, and I felt like I was living the dream.
However, my dream didn't last long; he left me for my best friend, and they ended up getting married because she got pregnant. But at the age of 21, she found herself a widow with a child to care for because her husband, the narquillo, was kidnapped in Tijuana and killed in the most horrific way. At the time, I was working as a TV news anchor at Univision, and I learned the news before she did; I was the one who told my friend about her husband's murder. Looking back, I'm glad the narquillo left me. I was lucky.
Growing up in this very tough and violent environment taught me many lessons, one of the most valuable being that communication is the key to good parenting. My boys are only 8 and 9 years old, but just like my father asked me about my Saturdays at Baby Rock, I ask my kids very specific questions about their day at school: Who did you eat lunch with? Who did you play with? Did anyone get in trouble? Like my dad, I try to have a friendly conversation with my boys about their day, while my task is to find out if there are any "bad boys" in their school. That old saying "Tell me who your friends are, and I'll tell you who you are" definitely applies here, and I want to make sure my kids can extract positive lessons from their friends instead of learning bad habits. I hope they'll do the same with their own children when they grow up.
Being raised in such violent atmosphere - where I heard gunshots and police sirens while trying to concentrate on a math test or hugged a devastated friend when her boyfriend was shot in the head - made me extremely vigilant, and I'm always aware of what my kids are doing. My family and I live in beautiful San Diego, but we spent a lot of time in New York City, so I'm always aware of my surroundings, and I teach my kids to do the same. I explain scenarios in which they could possibly be in danger and what they should do, such as: if you're lost and a stranger tells you they know where I am, it's not true. Run and scream for help.
Between the ages of 15 and 25, I saw it all: friends who smuggled drugs in their underwear into prison in the name of love, another who had her car "stolen" so her boyfriend could pay a debt. Some of these women learned from their mistakes and are good moms today, but I consider myself one of the lucky ones, thanks to my mom's sixth sense and my own. I'm not a widow or single mom; my husband isn't a drug dealer, in jail, or dead.
Being a border girl means being fearless. I'm a survivor of Narco Tijuana.
If There's 1 Thing Jennifer Lopez Loves More Than Naked Dresses, It's Her Bikinis
Jennifer Lopez is never one to shy away from wearing swimsuits, whether she's hanging out on a yacht in Paris or spending time poolside with her twins, Max and Emme, and her boyfriend, Alex Rodriguez, at her Hamptons home.
It's no secret Jennifer loves to stay very healthy by eating clean and working out a lot. That shows whenever she posts a sexy photo on Instagram. It's like the 48-year-old superstar has discovered the fountain of youth or something. Her beauty and rock-hard abs are a perfect combination to have people drooling when she's in a bikini.
Now, after you wipe that drool off your face from looking at the photos ahead, make sure to check out all the dresses she's worn that were meant to be seen from the back, OK?
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