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.
dimanche 2 septembre 2018
8 Pairs of Jeans You Don't Already Have but Should For 2018
Denim will forever be a big part of our wardrobes, and that's not changing in 2018. But if you want to get a little inventive with your look, you might need to look beyond the jeans already in your drawer. We scouted the runways and have kept our eyes on the street to uncover the designs that you probably don't already own. It might take some warming up to these extraordinary silhouettes, so read up on them one by one, or jump ahead to the denim trend you know about and can't wait to shop.
This 30-Minute Dance Cardio Workout Feels Like a Party
Ain't no party like a cardio dance party, especially when you're working out with Nicole Steen! A cardio dance expert at Equinox, she knows how to keep you moving. This workout is so fun, you'll likely forget you're working out. Press play and get ready to shake it! And be sure to check out Nicole's Latin dance workout for 30 more minutes of fun.
Credits:Wardrobe Credit:
On Anna: Sweaty Betty top and bra, Terez tights and Under Armour shoes; On Nicole: Seafolly outfit and Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) shoes; On Kaycee:Knixwear bra, 7 'Til Midnight Tanks, Body Language Sportswear tights and Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) shoes; Corkcicle water bottle
How Venus Williams Really Feels About Losing to Sister Serena at the US Open
Serena and Venus Williams went head to head during the third round of the 2018 US Open on Friday night, and boy was it an incredible match! Not only did Serena defeat Venus 6-1, 6-2 in an hour and 12 minutes, but Venus also said it was the "best match [Serena has] ever played against me." "She played so well, I never got to really even touch any balls," Venus added. "When your opponent plays like that, it's not really anything to be upset about."
Venus and Serena have been competing against each other for the past 20 years, and the event marked their 30th meeting. "I played much better tonight than I have since I started this journey on my way back," Serena (who welcomed daughter Alexis in September 2017) recalled. "I think it's by far the best match I ever played against her in forever."
Serena will face Kaia Kanepi of Estonia for the first time since the 2014 US Open on Sunday. If she wins, she'll then play either Karolina Pliskova or Ashleigh Barty in the quarterfinals. We're wishing Serena the best of luck!
8 Moves That Build a Leaner, Stronger Back
Let's get rid of that back fat showing when you wear a tight tank top the smart way: a series of eight exercises that target the spot and also help you lose overall body fat. Targeted back exercises alone won't do the trick, but adding in some high intensity works to get the fat sizzling off while you simultaneously tone and strengthen your back in no time!
We enlisted the help of certified trainer Sarah Chadwell for insight on how you can sculpt your back and destroy the fat in one workout. "Large, dense muscles burn more calories and thus more fat, so you want to build lean muscle mass using resistance exercises," said Chadwell. "You also burn fat when you work at 60 to 70 percent of your maximum heart rate through cardiovascular exercise, high-intensity training, or plyometrics. What's even cooler is that you can create combinations of these types of exercises to get strong and burn fat at the same time." Here are Chadwell's suggestions for burning back fat and building lean muscle mass starting with your next gym visit.
Beginner Treadmill Plan: Here's How to Build Up to a 5K in 8 Weeks
If you're one of those people who can't run a single mile without huffing and puffing, you're not alone. Even the strongest runners had to start somewhere! Sure, some people are just born with natural athleticism, but most have to build up their endurance from the ground up. Good news for you: we teamed up with an expert to create the perfect beginner treadmill plan that will help you work up to a 5K (or just over three miles) in eight weeks. Totally doable!
Ahead is a full breakdown by Michael Olzinski, MSc, Equinox run coach and Lululemon run coach, that includes three training sessions per week.
The 1 Full-Body Strength-Training Move Most People Neglect, According to This Trainer
Image Source: Burst / Shopify Partners
Ready to meet an all-around smart exercise that offers a laundry list of amazing benefits? Great, let's talk about the viking press, a versatile move that Westin's Global Run Concierge Chris Heuisler says is one people shouldn't neglect. The viking press is essentially a kneeling, twisted-overhead press. Here are several reasons you should incorporate it into your workouts, according to Chris:
- It works your butt and core (especially your external obliques).
- It naturally tones your shoulders.
- It moves you transversely.
- It elevates your heart rate.
Sounds awesome, right? Most of your power comes from the transverse (horizontal) plane, making rotational movements especially important in your workouts. For example, a straight jab doesn't generate as much power as a hook would because it doesn't generate as much momentum. But according to Chris, "We don't move like that anymore. If you've ever seen kids move, what they're not doing is what we're doing every day, which is going in a straight path. That's actually to our disadvantage."
The viking press helps combat that as it calls for a complete rotation and lengthens your entire body. "I'm teaching my body how to stabilize in transverse," he told POPSUGAR. "My right glute has to connect to my core to make this work, otherwise if that's off, my stability is off. You have to have stability before you have mobility."
How to Do It
- Begin in a kneeling lunge, keeping your left leg bent in a 90-degree angle and your right leg bent perpendicular to the ground.
- Hold a dumbbell slightly in front of your chest.
- Squeeze your glute, open your hip, and rotate your body to the left side, reaching up for the ceiling.
- Come back down in a slow, controlled movement to the front.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Yi
This move can also be completed with a kettlebell by turning it upside down.
8 Keto-Approved Fruits to Add to Your Diet
Touted as nature's candy, fruit is something we grew up knowing was good for us. While it's loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it does contain sugar, making it a food some believe should be avoided when on diets like keto, on which you're also supposed to limit your carbs to 20 to 50 grams.
The good news is that you don't have to take fruit completely out of rotation when you're trying keto because there are some types that are low in carbs and high in fiber that fit the diet's restrictions. Knowing how to calculate your net carbs is super handy in making sure you don't get yourself out of ketosis, but without having to do the math, here are eight types of fruit you can (thankfully!) have on keto.
Does Drinking Cold Water Actually Aid Weight Loss? Finally, Here's You're Answer
You may have heard that drinking cold water can help you burn more calories throughout the day, but unfortunately, that tip is merely myth. Although it makes sense to think that your body would use more energy to heat the water to its core temperature, studies have found that the amount of calories burned (about four to seven calories per glass) is too minimal to actually make a difference. However, drinking cold water does offer benefits outside of weight loss.
According to Jacqueline Schaffer, MD, a board-certified medical doctor, "cold water can increase blood circulation on the skin's surface specifically," which can promote the appearance of glowing skin. Additionally, research has shown that drinking cold water during exercise can decrease dehydration and make you feel less tired, helping you work out longer as a result. The reason being that it helps keep your core body temperature cool.
But regardless of what temperature your water is, the most important thing is that you're drinking water at all. Dehydration is not something to take lightly: it can cause fatigue, irritability, muscle cramps, dizziness, and headaches, and even cause your metabolism to slow down without the ability to remove waste. A good rule of thumb is to to drink about half of your bodyweight (in pounds) in fluid ounces.
Moral of the story: just drink water. Period.
If You Want to Transform the Shape of Your Body, Read This Now
Does weightlifting feel like a foreign style of training to you? If so, that's completely understandable. Learning a new skill - cooking, a new language, or working out - requires a lot of practice. As a trainer, I've helped many people go from being sedentary to lifting weights multiple times a week. I've laid out a general plan that will help you learn how to move correctly without weights (aka bodyweight exercises), in order to prevent injuries when you do advance to using weights. Get ready to cross off "learn how to lifts weights" from your list of fitness goals with these three simple weightlifting tips.
Start With Bodyweight Exercises
It can be tempting to jump into lifting heavy weights, attempting moves like dumbbell power cleans from the get-go. I don't advise this because you'll be putting yourself at risk for injury. Instead, I suggest learning how to efficiently move your own bodyweight first. Training with just your bodyweight can highlight any muscular imbalances you may have and help you correct them. You'll also learn proper movement patterns and you'll build a foundation of strength. Get started with these exercises:
Once you are comfortable with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, planks, and lunges, advance to learning basic strength training movements with weight.
Learn the Basic Movements
Once you've gotten bodyweight exercises down, it's time to start incorporating using light weights with exercises. If you aren't comfortable going straight to using a barbell and dumbbells, you can utilize various machines in the gym. A progression of this would look like: learning how to do an air squat, then learning how to do smith machine squats, and finally, dumbbell/barbell squats. The basics movements I recommend you learn first are:
Once these moves become second nature, you can continue to progress to more advanced moves like deadlifts and hip thrusts.
Put Your New Skills to Work
Practice makes perfect, especially when it comes to lifting weights. You're going to need to practice these moves often, preferably with the supervision of an experienced trainer. From there you can begin to focus on compound exercises (multiple muscle groups being worked at once) like the squat and press to get the most out of your workout.
If you're new to strength training, I recommend doing three strength training sessions a week. This will give your body ample time to recover and adapt to this new style of training. When it comes to programming, I constantly change the focus and style of each session to create muscle confusion and prevent a plateau. One session may specifically target the lower body, other days may focus on chest and back, and some days will be conditioning (non-stop activity for the entire session). If you aren't sure how to create your own program, this four-week beginner plan is a great resource.
PSA: Just Because I Started Working Out More Doesn't Mean I'm "Sweating For the Wedding"
There's no denying that planning your wedding is a big, exciting ordeal. First, there's the engagement - which is awesome - usually followed by months and months of looking at venues, dresses, flowers, you name it. And while the entire process has definitely been memorable for me so far, there's one aspect of being engaged that's beginning to grind my gears: constantly being asked how my shredding for the wedding is going.
On one hand, I get it. About a year after I got engaged, I started to take fitness - and my overall health - way more f*cking seriously. Why? Because my 25th year of life definitely wasn't my healthiest, and as a former college athlete, that didn't sit well with me. I don't really have a reason for why I lost sight of my fitness goals - I was somehow still under the impression that I could eat whatever I wanted without working out consistently. Boy, was I wrong.
Then came the string of empty truths.
I promised myself I would commit to the gym five or six days a week in September, and then again on Jan. 1, and then again in March - my excuses always outweighed my drive. I would go on a three-mile run a few times a week, do some crunches, and call it day. But that just wasn't cutting it.
I was too busy. It was too cold. I didn't feel like it. I thought I deserved that second glass of wine after a long week.
But right before I turned 26 in June, I'll admit I had a bit of a quarterlife life crisis. For some inexplicable - and completely irrational - reason, I felt like there was this humongous difference between the ages and 25 and 26. I suddenly had the overwhelming feeling I was falling behind on the long-term goals I had set out for myself and that I was treading water.
I wasn't waking up at 5 a.m. just so I could look good in a few pictures nine months from now. It was bigger than that.
Combined with the task of planning a wedding, I knew I needed to get more organized ASAP. And as someone who always found solace in exercise, the gym seemed like a good enough place to start. The real challenge? Staying consistent.
After sucking it up and committing to the gym five or six days a week, hiring a personal trainer, and living off chicken and veggies for most of my meals, my body slowly started to change. My mood, however, changed faster. I kissed my anxiety buh-bye (for the most part), started sleeping better, and had more energy a week or two after I started getting serious about weightlifting.
I'm not going to lie . . . it was also nice to get the occasional compliment from one of my aunts or a college friend who I hadn't seen in a while - I was still far from rail thin, but I felt a heck of a lot stronger. But what bothered me was always the inevitable follow-up remark about how great it was that I was "sweating for the wedding."
While I completely understand that the timing of it all seems suspicious and that many other couples tend to pump iron a little bit more before their big day, I wasn't waking up at 5 a.m. just so I could look good in a few pictures nine months from now. It was bigger than that.
I firmly believe that working out and eating well is a lifestyle, and while hitting the weight room religiously for nine months straight is great, it won't do me much good if I stop going the day after I get married.
My fiancé has started joining me at the gym. It's truly something we enjoy doing together. And there are loads of benefits to being in shape. (He's definitely not complaining!) First and foremost, I work out for my own sanity and well-being. It makes me a better partner.
The bottom line? The added perks of working out are great, and I'm looking forward to feeling my best on the day of the wedding. But to assume a woman is simply "shredding" or "sweating" for the sake of one day is pretty crazy, if you really think about it. So the next time it comes up in convo, give the bride-to-be the benefit of the doubt - it's not always about squeezing into a smaller dress size!
19 Awesome Things to Do Alone
Sometimes we're so concerned with finding a way to fill every single minute of every day interacting with people that we forget to take a step back and give ourselves some quality "me" time. Spending time alone is a way to recharge your mental batteries and regroup - everybody needs to do it now and then! So get over your fear of missing out or your reservations about being seen somewhere solo, and embark on a mission to treat yourself to these 19 dates with yourself.
Princess Diana's Niece Might Not Be a Royal, but She Sure Has the Wardrobe of One
From strutting her stuff on the runway to being one of the most stylish guests at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding, Kitty Spencer is slowly but surely taking over the fashion scene. As a member of the British aristocracy, the 27-year-old niece of Princess Diana leads a very glamorous life, and she certainly has the wardrobe to match.
Whether she's attending parties or joining her royal cousins at Ascot, Kitty knows what suits her figure. Not afraid to flaunt it, she's been spotted in anything from lingerie-inspired dresses to full-on princess gowns, which her Instagram followers love as much as we do. Ahead, take a look at some of Kitty's best looks to date.
50 Perfect Summer Outfits That Aren't Just Easy, but Also on Trend
With warmer weather finally here, you don't want to waste any time indoors trying to figure out what to wear. You probably already have a few signature summertime looks, like a simple wrap dress or your go-to t-shirt and jean short combo. But if you feel like you are in need of a style revamp, just look to street style stars for some fresh Summer styling ideas.
Bloggers, editors, and influencers alike have found new ways to mix and match the warm-weather staples you've probably already secured. Whether you rock a flirty frock over a pair of skinny jeans or dress up your favorite tee with a sleek skirt, follow these ladies' lead when it comes to Summer style. Ahead, you'll find 50 inspiring outfit ideas that will keep you looking stylish all season long.
These Are All the Bags We Need For Fall 2018
Bags are the Fall accessory that keeps on giving. No matter what you're wearing, having a great bag makes a statement. Plus, there are so many options in terms of silhouettes, colors, and fabrics, it's impossible to get bored. No matter what kind of bag you're looking for this Fall, our editors have got you covered. From designer finds to inexpensive scores, these are the 78 bags we love this season.
Amal Clooney's Shoe Game Proves She Is Sexy From Head to Toe - Literally
Amal Clooney has captivated us for oh-so-many reasons: She's an accomplished human rights lawyer, she snagged (former) perennial bachelor George Clooney, and she's about as stylish as they come (just ask Anna Wintour, who invited Clooney to cochair the Met Gala this year).
It's easy to see why people all over the globe are crushing on this gorgeous mother of two: Amal always looks chic from head to toe. We'd love to take a walk in her shoes, literally, which is why we're taking a moment to pay homage to her unmatched footwear game. Whether she's speaking out on world issues or hitting the red carpet with her hubby, Clooney's shoes are on point - and sexy as hell. Check out all of her sultry styles, then shop your own versions ahead.
How to Wear White After Labor Day - Because Heck Yes We're Doing It
What's the harm in wearing an all-white outfit during the Fall? Absolutely nothing. In fact, the light shade helps make the longer work days feel brighter, and it's a smart way to transition your Summer pieces over - that way you don't have to stow everything away just because the temperature's dropping.
That "no white after Labor Day" rule has long been cast aside, and that's only confirmed by the lovely, long-sleeved maxis and billowy-sleeved tops our favorite retailers are offering in ivory and cream. Ahead, we have a few easy tricks for tackling the monochrome look once the heat subsides. So trade in your sandals for pumps or sneakers and layer up on those breathable fabrics. You're going to feel fabulous.
Do You Hear That? It's These 10 Booties From Urban Outfitters Calling Your Name
We love a good bootie, and Urban Outfitters has some lust-worthy picks. The retailer just put out new options in leather, suede, and a variety of colors. If you're not sure what to buy, we rounded up a selection of our favorite picks. You'll want to rock these all the way through Winter, so they're smart investments.
We're Mesmerized by Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia's Appearance at This Royal Wedding
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding was nothing short of a romantic fairy tale, and thankfully, we didn't have to wait very long for another royal wedding. On Saturday, Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia were front and center when Prince Konstantin of Bavaria married Deniz Kaya at a French church in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Carl and Sofia looked picture-perfect as they held hands and made their way inside the church. The prince cut a suave figure in a black tux, while Sofia stunned in a blue gown.
Konstantin is the son of Prince Leopold and Princess Ursula of Bavaria. The Bavarian royal family previously ruled the German territory from 1180 to 1918. Ahead, check out photos from the stunning ceremony.
19 Books You Need to Read Before They Hit the Big Screen This Fall
The book may always be better than the movie, but when the movie's casting is incredible, then it's totally worth seeing regardless. From astronauts to ballerinas, here are the true stories, novels, and classics that will be coming to the big screen this Fall - we promise we won't tell anyone if you only pretend to have read these books before seeing them come to life in theaters.
Still Not Over Harry and Meghan's Wedding? Here's How You Can Recreate It For Halloween
If you're still obsessing over Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal wedding - and, let's be honest, who isn't? - why not recreate it for Halloween this year? Not only was it one of the most watched events in history, but it brought out so many stars and royals that you'll have endless costume ideas to choose from. You can either channel the bride and groom and stage an entire wedding ceremony, or you can dress up as George and Amal Clooney and take in the whole thing from the sidelines. Regardless of who you decide to dress up as, you're guaranteed to win Halloween this year.
Related: 15 British Royal Family Halloween Costume Ideas That Will Make You Feel Like Royalty
53 Seriously Steamy Movies Streaming on Netflix This September
The Fall may be upon us, but Netflix isn't quite ready to say goodbye to the heat. This September, Netflix has an incredible selection of super sexy movies for you to stream, with everything from shirtless superheroes to early 2000s rom-coms that never get old. Here are just 53 of the hottest flicks you'll find available to watch this September - be sure to keep a cold shower handy if needed.
Harry Shum Jr. Is Cool and All, but Just Wait Until You Meet His Wife, Shelby Rabara
If you're one of the many people who watched Crazy Rich Asians, you're probably wondering about all the sexy eye candy in the film - more specifically, Harry Shum Jr. Harry plays Charlie Wu in the film, and yes, he's taken in real life. Harry has been with fellow actress Shelby Rabara since 2007, and they tied the knot in November 2015. Ahead, get to know more about Shelby with these six quick facts.
These Easy Thomas the Tank Engine Halloween Costumes Will Make Kids Scream "All Aboard!"
If there's one show that has had a steady fan base of little ones for generations, it's definitely Thomas & Friends. Whether your kid completely idolizes Thomas or is always eagerly waiting for Percy to appear on the screen, we have a feeling they'd jump at a chance to dress up as their favorite engines this Halloween.
Have a train-obsessed kiddo lurking around your living room? Then you're in luck, because we've rounded up some of the very best Thomas the Tank Engine-themed costumes out there. So whether you just want to swing by Walmart and snag an outfit or want to go the homemade route, we have options for every little one. Scroll through to get a glimpse of what's out there - and make sure your credit card is at the ready!
45+ Halloween Jokes For Kids That Will Bring Out Their Evil Laughs
Halloween can be a very spooky holiday (there's never a shortage of haunted houses, scary stories, and horror movies), but when you have kids, it's fun to lighten the mood a little to give things a less terrifying spin. And to them, there's really nothing not to love about Halloween. They get to dress up in awesome costumes, walk around their neighborhood with their friends, and get free candy all night long! And since kids love jokes - both hearing them and telling them - we've put together a great compilation of kid-friendly Halloween ones. They'll make you a hit at your kids' Halloween party and make them a hit with their friends at school. Keep reading to see them all now, and prepare to do your best evil "muhahaha."
My Kids Are Too Young For Halloween, but I Bring Them Trick-or-Treating Anyway
Many parents opt out of taking their babies trick-or-treating on Halloween. I get it. The kids are too small, they won't remember a thing, they can't walk up to a house and ask for candy, and you feel a little bad splurging on an adorable costume that definitely won't fit them for more than a week. But if you're on the fence about taking your littlest ones door-to-door this year, I'm here to tell you that it can also be totally worth it.
No, they won't remember their first time trick-or-treating, but they will have those obnoxious family photos with our matching costumes to look back on.
For my son's first Halloween, he was only five months old, so I debated whether or not I should take him trick-or-treating. Bringing him meant I had to carry him, and if he was in a costume, that would make things even more of a challenge. It also meant that my husband and I had to do all the actual trick-or-treating while he smiled and charmed everyone. But as most first-time parents know, we really wanted to show him off. So, after a little bit of thought and a lot of costume searching, we dressed him up in a Detroit Tigers costume. He couldn't have looked any cuter. My husband, in-laws, and I walked the streets and took turns having him strapped inside the baby carrier or planted on our hip. People kept stopping us and commenting about how cute he was, and to be honest, hearing those things all night made me so happy. My son was all smiles at every new face that looked his way (many of whom were in costumes), and even though he won't remember it, I like to think that gave him a really good foundation for fun Halloween memories. So, after that first successful year, we decided to do it again when we had our daughter.
We immediately became that family of four that wears matching themed costumes. Cheesy, I know, but I just can't help myself. It's so fun! On my daughter's first Halloween, we all went as part of the Curious George crew. My husband was The Man with the Yellow Hat, I was Professor Wiseman, my almost 2-year-old son was Curious George himself, and our baby daughter was a banana. She definitely won't remember her first time trick-or-treating with her big brother, but she will have those obnoxious family photos with our matching costumes to look back on, and that's more than worth it to me. The photos will serve as a reminder of the early days when my husband and I were just starting to build our very own family traditions.
I understand why some parents don't want to bring their babies trick-or-treating, but I definitely don't think those who do should be shamed because of it. Yes, it's a lot of work and the weather rarely cooperates, but it's also about spending quality time together as a family. And those photos (of matching costumes or not) will last a lifetime for both you and your children. You'll be able to look back on them and tell your kids all about their very first Halloween, and that's something they'll always remember.
Hate Halloween? 10 Just-as-Fun Things to Do Instead of Trick-or-Treating
I can't pinpoint exactly when I started to dislike Halloween, but the older I've gotten, the more deeply I loathe the so-called holiday. Between macabre-themed parties, skimpy costumes, and strangers constantly knocking on my door, I'm pretty much over it. I did think that once I had children of my own, I'd start to appreciate it again - the way I did when I was young and trick-or-treating in my mom's handmade costumes - but instead, I find myself trying to convince my husband that our kids won't miss it (he strongly disagrees).
If you are like me and say "boohoo" to Halloween every year instead of just "boo," there's definitely no reason you and your family have to hide out in a dark house as hordes of children in search of processed sugar invade your neighborhood. You can still get out and have a lot of fun - it just won't revolve around death, monsters, or candy. Here are 10 things you can do instead of trick-or-treating this year to enjoy the day in your own way.
I Don't Let My Kids Eat Their Halloween Candy, but I Swear I'm Not a Witch
Like most kids, Halloween was my favorite holiday growing up. Why? Candy, obviously. The costumes and haunted houses were fun and all, but my goal was to stockpile as much candy as humanly possible, ditch all the garbage nobody wanted (you know who you are, toothbrushes, dimes, and Bit-O-Honey), and see how much of that sweet treasure I could consume in one night.
Now that I'm a parent (who also happens to be a nutritionist), my views toward Halloween have changed just a smidge, and, yes, I am that mom who makes her kids trade in their trick-or-treat candy. Before you call me a bad mom and tell me how my plan is going to backfire in my face when my kids turn into candy-gorging monsters who hide empty wrappers under their bed, hear me out.
It's not easy, but I do try to strike a balance between being overly strict and allowing Halloween to turn into a month-long candy fest. I do this by limiting the number of Halloween activities we participate in and by having my kids turn in most of the Halloween candy they collect.
Seriously, though, when did the entire month of October turn into one long Halloween party? Before I had kids, I naively believed that you celebrated Halloween by trick-or-treating on Oct. 31. Now there are trunk-or-treats, school parties, and something called "Boo at the Zoo." At first, we got wrapped up in the excitement of taking our little guys out to show off their costumes. We quickly realized, however, that they were getting candy pretty much every weekend in October, and Halloween lost some of its sparkle. Now, we limit the festivities to one function during the month of October and then trick-or-treating on Halloween night. It's definitely helped to get the candy situation under control, and bonus, I don't have to constantly say "no" every time my kids whine for "just one more piece."
With the candy they do bring home, we let them go through it and pick out a few of their favorites (who am I to deny someone the joy of a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup?), and then they trade in the rest of their candy for a special prize. We don't go over the top with it (I'm pretty sure my oldest chose a lightsaber from Target last year). And this year, I plan to give them a dollar limit and let them choose a toy or a few art supplies they've been asking for.
Even though I don't want all that candy in our house, I still feel guilty just throwing it in the trash. Last year, we found out through Facebook that a local dentist office was accepting candy donations to be sent to our troops overseas. We even have a local grocery store that will trade your candy for fresh produce!
Depending on where you live, you should be able to search the name of your city and "Halloween candy donation" or "candy buy back" and come up with a few options for donating your unwanted candy. If your search comes up empty, you can reach out directly to Operation Gratitude, Operation Shoebox, or Ronald McDonald House to find ways to donate. If all else fails, make this Halloween Candy Graveyard and invite a few friends over so you can share your sugary riches.
I Should Probably Feel Bad About the Halloween Prank I Play on My Kids Every Year, but It's Just Too Good
I love everything about Halloween. From the creative and cute costumes, endless scary movie marathons, and creepy decorations to the haunted house outings and the trick-or-treating, I go all out every year. Since my kids are still pretty young (4 and 6), I have to keep my love for all things spooky in check, but that definitely doesn't mean I still don't have a little festive fun with them. And one of my very favorite Halloween traditions I started with my kids is playing a harmless prank on them every year.
I pick a day during the month of October (I don't do this on actual Halloween because they'll see it coming, so I pick a different day every year) and run to the dollar store to buy a ton of fake bugs, spider rings, and more. While my kids are still sound asleep, I tiptoe into their dark bedrooms and carefully place all of these pretend bugs on their beds. I tiptoe back out, get back into my own bed, and fall back asleep. And every year, my husband and I are woken up by their surprised screams and calls for help once they discover what's all over their beds.
"Ahhhhh! Get off of me!" I hear them yell. They run down the hallway and away from the bugs as fast as they can before quickly remembering the annual prank their dear old mom plays on them year after year. They then start belly laughing uncontrollably and run to check what was put in the other's bed. The hilarity is contagious and quickly fills out whole house with the Halloween spirit.
"Mom! You got us again!" they always say over breakfast that morning before carefully devising a plan to "get mom back." They never do, of course, but just listening to their imaginations think up funny Halloween pranks to play on me (like we're in our very own prank war) makes me feel like a kid again. It makes them even more excited for trick-or-treating, and I get to relive the innocent joys of the Halloween season all over again.
I'm going to keep this family tradition going as long as I can - even when my children are teenagers (I can't wait for those eye-rolls and to hear, "Mom, you're so embarrassing"). Because no matter how old they get, I always want to remember to be silly together, because the trick part can be just as good (if not better) than the treats.
9 Halloween Games That Will Make Any Sleepover a Spooky Delight
If you love to throw parties for your kids, Halloween is the perfect time to pull out all of the stops. Unlike other holidays, Halloween is all about the theme, the costumes, and the candy. Many times, these parties can turn into sleepovers (sometimes you plan it that way, and sometimes your kid begs you to let their friends stay over). And when that happens, it's so fun to have a few creepy games on hand to enhance the Halloween mood (just make sure all of the kids are old enough and can handle it!). Whether it's a slightly spooky one that uses a Ouija board to connect to the spirit world or a chanting ritual in the mirror (I'm pretty sure I still can't order more than two Bloody Marys at brunch), there's a handful of games that will keep everyone talking well after Oct. 31. Keep reading to see them all now . . . if you dare.
Related: I'm the Mom of a Tween, and This Is What Sleepovers Are Really Like
19 Awesome Things to Do Alone
Sometimes we're so concerned with finding a way to fill every single minute of every day interacting with people that we forget to take a step back and give ourselves some quality "me" time. Spending time alone is a way to recharge your mental batteries and regroup - everybody needs to do it now and then! So get over your fear of missing out or your reservations about being seen somewhere solo, and embark on a mission to treat yourself to these 19 dates with yourself.
samedi 1 septembre 2018
Crazy Rich Asians: Here's Everything That Happens in the Books
Crazy Rich Asians didn't just break box-office expectations . . . it downright shattered them. The rom-com had one of the biggest openings in history for its genre and was pretty much the talk of the internet as soon as it hit theaters. Even better news? Warner Bros., which owns the film options to all three of Kevin Kwan's novels, just announced that a sequel movie is on its way.
Kwan's book series includes the original Crazy Rich Asians, followed by China Rich Girlfriend and Rich People Problems. If you thought the saga of Rachel and the Youngs was over with that swoon-worthy plane proposal, you are so very, very wrong. There's tons more drama, parties, manipulations, friendships, and, of course, romance to come. In fact, some of the characters who barely got any screen time in the movie are set to be key players in the sequels.
If you aren't spoiler-averse, or if you've already binged Kwan's novels, read on for some of what awaits fans in the next installments.
Warning: Major, MAJOR spoilers for Crazy Rich Asians ahead! Proceed with caution.
When Should Kids Stop Trick-or-Treating? The Answer Might Surprise You
A plethora of comfy sweaters, pumpkins everywhere, and the debate over whether or not candy corn is the best or the dessert of the devil (team candy corn over here) are just a few of the things you can expect to see every Fall. And if people aren't debating about very serious candy rankings, they're probably talking about what age kids should stop trick-or-treating.
There's no right or scientific answer for when a child should stop trick-or-treating. It's up to the child to determine when they want to ditch the costumes and try something else.
I get that some adults are annoyed by older kids ringing their doorbell and asking for candy. The holiday is a chance for young children to dress up and use their imaginations, which gives a special magic to Halloween. Older children, namely those in middle and high school, are clearly out of the realm of pretend, and therefore may feel somewhat out of place among the hoard of 5-year-olds running around dressed as Elmo. For many, it feels like the teens are taking the candy and innocent fun from the younger kids, and some cities agree with them. Teens also start to pay more attention to the "trick" aspect of trick-or-treating, causing mischief and playing pranks on unsuspecting neighbors.
In the Canadian town of New Brunswick, they banned teenagers over the age of 16 from dressing up and trick-or-treating. While they did this largely in response to pranks that were being pulled, by banning trick-or-treating, they were also sending a message that Halloween is only for younger children. Yet, as the law in New Brunswick demonstrates, the fear of older children trick-or-treating has less to do with keeping the holiday kid-focused and everything to do with policing mischievous behavior.
If a child, no matter their age, is respectful and in costume, I will always open my door for them on Halloween. It doesn't matter if they're three or 13, I'd rather have a group of teenagers trick-or-treating and having a good time than out causing trouble. As long as they still want to, you should feel totally OK with letting them get dressed up with their friends - even if it's just some silly face paint - walk around the neighborhood, and, yes, eat way too much candy. And if they don't want to (you'll probably hear a, "That's so lame, Mom!"), that's OK, too. There are so many other fun and spooky activities you can organize for your teen to enjoy on Halloween.
At the end of the day, there's no right or scientific answer for when a child should stop trick-or-treating. While it usually happens naturally when they become a teenager, there's no official cutoff age (unless your town enforces one). It's up to the child to determine when they want to ditch the costumes and do something else. Until then, feel free to continue letting them have a little door-to-door fun.
Wallet, Where You At? We Found the 12 Hottest Sneakers Released For Fall 2018
When we say, "You can never have enough sneakers," we mean it. Whether you're using your kicks to go to the gym, take a class, or just stroll around town, there's always room for more. That's why we created an ultimate guide to our favorite sneakers for Fall 2018. These shoes come in all sorts of colors, and every style you can think of too. Shop through these enticing options and score yourself a pair before they all disappear. Trust us, they'll be selling out soon.
16 Halloween Costumes Every Curvy Girl Will Love - and Want to Wear Again and Again
Halloween is a time to dress up and have fun with your costume, but if you're a curvy girl, finding one can be a struggle and a half. Whenever the time rolls around to find a costume, it's so hard for me because I want something that is flattering and hits me in all the right spots.
Fun fact: I wore a Maleficent costume from Disney my mom got me in middle school every year until I was in high school because it fit me so well, I didn't want to part ways with it. Well, this year, I'm kissing that one goodbye and definitely getting my hands on one of these. Click through to see some of the best options out there, and get ready to stunt on all your friends this year!
You Don't Have to Wait a Second Longer to Shop 2018's Biggest Shoe Trends
Shoes are our guilty shopping pleasure. If that's the case for you too, you'll be pleased to know that you don't have to wait a second more to shop 2018's most popular styles. After checking out which colors and silhouettes were most abundant on the Spring runways, we compiled a list of several must-have styles for the new year. Don't worry; we found shoes at every price point so you can test the trend without going over budget. Read on to see our top picks, and then start adding your favorites to your cart.
These 6 Leggings Have 5-Star Reviews - See Why They're Perfection
Much like shoes, you can never have too many leggings. They're great for yoga, dance classes, running, gym sessions, and even just lounging around. If you need a new pair but don't know where to start, we rounded up the top-rated choices from Nordstrom. Shop through these customer favorites and try them out for yourself.
This High-Impact Sports Bra Is the Only 1 You Need, and It's $27 on Amazon
Finding a sports bra that fits like a glove and that is actually supportive may seem impossible at times, but we think we found a solution. We just discovered this FITTIN Racerback Sports Bra ($27) trending on Amazon, and it comes in a pack of four!
The incredible bra is a bestseller and boasts over 3,000 positive reviews from happy customers. A ton of its five-star ratings come from women with larger busts who say it is beyond supportive and reliable for them. Others who have smaller busts are also happy with the high-impact workouts they are able to achieve in comfort. Made from a climate cooling material, it helps keep you cool on even the sweatiest workouts.
We're so impressed by the price, and the fact it comes as a four-pack is even better. Don't sleep on this deal: hurry, and buy your size before it's gone.
16 Halloween Costumes Every Curvy Girl Will Love - and Want to Wear Again and Again
Halloween is a time to dress up and have fun with your costume, but if you're a curvy girl, finding one can be a struggle and a half. Whenever the time rolls around to find a costume, it's so hard for me because I want something that is flattering and hits me in all the right spots.
Fun fact: I wore a Maleficent costume from Disney my mom got me in middle school every year until I was in high school because it fit me so well, I didn't want to part ways with it. Well, this year, I'm kissing that one goodbye and definitely getting my hands on one of these. Click through to see some of the best options out there, and get ready to stunt on all your friends this year!
Your One-Stop Shop For Re-Creating Beyoncé's Iconic Coachella Look This Halloween
It's well after midnight on April 14, 2018, and my phone is vibrating incessantly. Beyoncé has just taken the stage for the first weekend of Coachella, and Twitter is blowing up with videos and pictures. As the first black woman to headline the festival, Beyoncé made sure every aspect of her set held meaning: the brass marching band, the custom Balmain ensembles, and her tribute to HBCUs with fraternity-inspired looks.
Beyoncé's rendition of the unofficial black national anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and her empowering speech excerpts throughout the show inspired people to re-create the routine, and now, re-create the look for Halloween. If you're a proud and buzzing BeyHive member or you just need some iconic Bey inspiration for Halloween, all it takes are three pieces: a cropped yellow hoodie, jean shorts, and some metallic boots. Shop everything you need to re-create Beyoncé's infamous Coachella look ahead, then grab your girls and get in "Formation."
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert II Celebrate the End of Summer With Their Adorable Twins
It's always a little sad saying goodbye to Summer, but the Monaco royal family's latest appearance should help ease the pain. On Friday, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene bid farewell to the season with their annual end of Summer picnic in Monaco. The royals brought along their 3-year-old twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, who looked adorable in their traditional costumes. "[It] was a very, very, very beautiful evening," a guest told People. "The children clearly enjoyed themselves with their cousins around them and, the music and food."
The festivities marked the family's first public appearance since returning from their trip to Tahiti in August. It was the brood's first long-distance vacation and Gabriella reportedly learned some dance moves from Lady Gaga, who was also vacationing on the island at the time. What a lucky little girl!
I'm That Overly Cautious Mom Who Throws Away All Halloween Candy That Isn't Totally Sealed
Hello! Allow me to introduce myself. I'm that super-overprotective mom who is paranoid AF. Especially around Halloween, when so many scary things can happen (literally). I need only have heard one story about one kid eating a piece of candy that was tampered with, even if it was way back in 1987 when I was a kid myself, to unleash some corporate-level quality control on my own kids' stash before they dig in.
Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
I operate under the assumption that a parent can never be too cautious when your children are basically taking candy from strangers. So, yes, every year, my kids have to wait while I inspect their chocolate bars and lollipops for, oh, I don't know, razor blades. If I happen to see a wrapper that isn't totally sealed (anything wrapped at the sides is gone) or looks iffy, like someone removed it and rewrapped it, or even just lifted up the edge, I toss that peanut butter cup or mini licorice pack faster than you can say "trick-or-treat."
Not that I encounter too much suspicious candy, but believe me, it's out there. Last year, my kids brought home several chocolate eggs in Christmas wrappers. Thinking about it logically, best case scenario, that candy was 10 months old. Indeed, a quick inspection inside the red and green foils revealed some rather questionable-looking chocolate that was covered in white powder. Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
Here's the thing: My kids don't need all the candy they score on Halloween anyway. Their teeth are probably already going to rot out from the stuff I let them keep that's totally on the up and up. I simply fail to see the need to keep candy on hand that gives me any reason to doubt whether it's safe for my children to eat.
Most of the time, my kids don't even notice I've edited their bounty and removed any candy I've either never heard of or that could possibly have been tampered with, no matter how unlikely. And even if they gave me a hard time, I'd tell them what my mom used to tell me: "It's better to be safe than sorry." One day, when they're parents, they'll understand.
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.
Here's Everything You'll Need to Copy Rihanna in All Her Holy Glory at the Met Gala
The moment Rihanna arrived at the Met Gala this year, it was like she parted the red sea carpet and showed everyone why she's truly a fashion icon. Rihanna, who was one of the cohosts, blessed the world with a Margiela pope-inspired outfit that had us in pure awe. The theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," and boy, did she stick to it!
What better way to pay homage to Rihanna in all her holy glory than re-creating her look for Halloween? The basic essentials you'll need are a mitre aka a bishop's hat, a silver beaded dress or a top and miniskirt, a long jacket, pearl ankle bracelets, and silver glitter heels. Shop everything you'll need to dress up like Rihanna and prepare to have others bow down!
Here's Everything You'll Need to Copy Rihanna in All Her Holy Glory at the Met Gala
The moment Rihanna arrived at the Met Gala this year, it was like she parted the red sea carpet and showed everyone why she's truly a fashion icon. Rihanna, who was one of the cohosts, blessed the world with a Margiela pope-inspired outfit that had us in pure awe. The theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," and boy, did she stick to it!
What better way to pay homage to Rihanna in all her holy glory than re-creating her look for Halloween? The basic essentials you'll need are a mitre aka a bishop's hat, a silver beaded dress or a top and miniskirt, a long jacket, pearl ankle bracelets, and silver glitter heels. Shop everything you'll need to dress up like Rihanna and prepare to have others bow down!
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