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.
mardi 4 septembre 2018
13 Fall Dresses You Need in Your Life . . . All From Amazon and Less Than $16
Your closet is about to get much more crowded, because we just found affordable dresses that are beyond pretty. All you have to do is check out Amazon to solve your fashion woes - we're not kidding. The online retailer offers a variety of cool, stylish pieces at ridiculously low prices. We curated a list of the very best dresses you need for Fall, so take a seat and sift through them all. You deserve it!
50+ Photos That Show the Outpouring of Love at Princess Diana's Public Funeral
When Princess Diana was tragically killed in a car crash in August 1997, it seemed as though the world was mourning just as deeply as her own family. Diana, dubbed "The People's Princess," made an indelible mark on those in the UK as well as around the globe; her funeral, which was held on Sept. 6, was watched or listened to by an estimated 2.5 billion people worldwide - making it one of the most watched events in history. In London, a crowd of nearly one million people gathered to trace Diana's coffin from Kensington Palace to Westminster Abbey to her final resting place at the Spencer family's home in Althorp.
Diana's sons, Harry and William, followed their mother's coffin alongside their father, Prince Charles, and their uncle Charles, the Earl Spencer. The visibly moved onlookers blanketed the streets with heartfelt notes, bouquets, and teddy bears, and flower petals rained down from bystanders along the procession route. People also gathered in Hyde Park, where the ceremony was being aired on a giant screen, while celebrities like Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Hillary Clinton, and Elton John attended the official ceremony inside Westminster Abbey. We're looking back on the outpouring of love from the public at Diana's funeral. Scroll through to see all the tearjerking photos.
This Is Us Unveils the First Photo From Season 3, and We're Already Getting Teary-Eyed
The wait is almost over, This Is Us fans! After what felt like a million years, the hit drama is finally returning for its third season this month! Ahead of the season three premiere on Sept. 25, NBC unveiled a gorgeous portrait of the talented cast to get fans excited. In the photo, which was shot by photographer Annie Leibovitz, the Pearson family cuddles up under a tree while the sunshine beams down on their faces. Is this a clue that the upcoming season will be a little bit lighter? The show's creator Dan Fogelman did say that the first episode of season three would be a bit more joyful. Hopefully the rest of the season will follow suit! We don't know if we can handle another heartbreaking death again this year.
Welcome Fall With Our Picks of the Best Health and Fitness Products of the Season
The weather is changing and the days are getting shorter, which means Fall is coming. We're looking forward to cool morning runs, cozy long pants, and all the Autumn flavors (hello, apple and pumpkin!). Here are some of our favorite fitness picks to keep you moving and motivated this September.
I Was in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship, and I Didn't Even Realize It
At 23 years old, I fell fast and hard for an outgoing, charismatic man. When we began dating, he made me feel special, beautiful, and loved. I decided that any negative aspect of our relationship didn't matter because he loved me so much - there was a reasonable explanation for all of it. So when he proposed to me after almost a year of dating, I was overjoyed. I found a guy who wanted to commit his life to me. We were going to build a future together.
Six months into our engagement, that image of our life crumbled to pieces. My fiancé decided that he didn't want to marry me anymore, and it felt like a tragedy. I dreaded telling my friends and family; I was devastated. But their reactions to my news were not what I expected at all. One friend broke into tears. Another told me she was proud of me. My family felt guilty that they had let the relationship progress as much as it did.
They were relieved that my engagement to this man was over. Everyone had been scared for me, and I didn't get why. I was confused.
Everyone had been scared for me, and I didn't get why. I was confused.
This was the worst thing that had ever happened to me, wasn't it? But then, loved ones started telling me of times when they wish they had said something to me. Times when my fiancé would put me down or yell at me in public. And as more people stepped forward and told me that ending this relationship was a good thing (including this guy's own close friends), I came to a horrifying realization.
I was emotionally abused, and I could not admit to myself that it was happening at the time.
There were glimmers of problems from the beginning of our relationship, but I made the choice to ignore them. He would say little things to me or shout for a moment, but I brushed it off. It didn't become bad until we moved in together a month after our engagement.
My friends only saw what was happening in front of them, but behind closed doors it was even worse.
The first memory I have of definitive emotional abuse was an evening just a week or two after we moved into our apartment. We were sitting at the bar below our place having a drink when I noticed that he was getting Snapchats from a girl he nicknamed Kate Upton in his phone. I had mentioned to him once before that this made me uncomfortable, so when I saw that she had popped up once again, I questioned him about it. And he became furious with me.
He immediately stomped up the stairs to our apartment, and I quickly followed behind. He was livid. He told me I was ridiculous and jealous for questioning if he would be inappropriately interacting with another girl. And I felt terrible that I would ever question him - we were getting married, after all.
But the more I cried and apologized, the more he screamed at me.
But the more I cried and apologized, the more he screamed at me. I began to have a panic attack and I melted down to the ground, curled up in a ball in the hallway. But instead of stopping the yelling, he stood over me and continued to scream. I started hyperventilating. He told me I was faking it and I was pathetic. After he finished the shouting, he walked away from me. We were silent for about 20 minutes, then we got into bed and went to sleep. The next morning, he said he was sorry, but I needed to calm down with my emotions. So in the end, I was the one apologizing for what transpired the night before.
This was not a one-time thing. There were many more fights like this. And in the end I was always the one made to feel guilty. How dare I ever question him - he proposed to me. How could I do that to him? I was disgusted with myself for doubting him on a regular basis. I told myself that it was my anxiety making me paranoid.
But the screaming wasn't the only problem. This man would criticize me, put me down, and make me feel small constantly. If he didn't like something I was wearing, he would make sure I knew it. He told me I wasn't very funny and he didn't get why my friends laughed at me. He would constantly belittle me for being clumsy. I was afraid to spill something in front of him.
Another problem entirely was his lack of respect for people close to him. I watched him yell at his family on a regular basis over the tiniest things. He started off being incredibly close with my parents (they even helped him pick out my engagement ring), but as soon as we started planning the wedding, everything changed.
I started gaining weight. I became very quiet at work. I saw less of my friends. I felt bad about myself, but I didn't understand why. Wedding planning was not fun; I found it stressful. Like always, I told myself it was all in my head.
He had a lot of opinions about how he envisioned our wedding should be, and if my parents or I had a differing opinion, he was angry about it. We weren't putting a dime of our own money into the big day, so I felt weird about his resentment toward any ideas other than his own. When I tried to tell him that, he would tell me I was wrong. "Don't you love me because I have a lot of opinions?" he would say.
He stopped visiting my family with me. When I mentioned my parents, he would make snide remarks about them. I stopped talking about them altogether because it made me uncomfortable. My family loved me, and all they were trying to do was give us a dream wedding.
I loved this guy so much that I didn't care how I was feeling on the inside.
I loved this guy so much that I didn't care how I was feeling on the inside. I would do anything for him, and he knew that. So when he told me he was unhappy in our relationship, I asked him what I could do to fix that. All he could say was that he didn't know.
Eventually he told me that proposing to me was a mistake, but he wanted me to stay with him to see if we could work things out. More specifically, if I could fix all the things that were "wrong with me." And I did stay for a while. I so desperately wanted him to wake up and realize that no woman would love him the way I did. But he went about every day like things were normal, and I woke up every morning filled with dread, unsure of my future.
I asked him what was going on with our relationship a couple times, and each time it would result in an intense fight where we would part ways and stay with our families for a night or two. He told me I was impossible to talk to because I was too emotional.
After a weekend without hearing from him, I texted him asking if we could meet at the apartment and talk. His response - "Why?" I told him we needed to figure out what was going on, and he told me it wasn't a good thing for him personally to talk to me. We ended things.
I said I was moving out, so he went through everything I owned and put it in the middle of the family room. "I hope I made it a little easier for you," he said. While I sat at my parents' house (my new temporary home) and cried for a week straight, I received texts and calls from all over town - people told me he was out drinking most nights with his friends. They were confused by his actions. It hurt.
He blocked me and my friends from every social media platform. But that didn't stop the awful screenshots of his tweets bragging about going out and joking about needing a wingman. Even his friends were not loyal to him because they knew he turned me into a shell of the person I used to be.
A week later, on top of everything I had just gone through, I learned that he was not faithful to me. He was sending all sorts of photos of his penis to another girl before we were even engaged. Several people who knew about the exchanges informed me, even providing physical proof that the "other girl" admitted to all of it.
When I confronted him and his parents about his infidelity (bravest thing I've ever done, by the way), he pulled me to the side and asked me why I was trying to ruin his life. "We're done, Macy," he shouted at me. "You're trying to cause drama."
But I wasn't trying to cause drama. For the first time in my life, I was standing up to him. He had made me feel so guilty for questioning him all this time. And that feeling in the pit of my stomach was right all along. After trying to protect him and our relationship for a year and a half of my life, I was done. I missed who I used to be. I missed being happy. I realized that I had dedicated a huge period of my life trying to make sure I didn't make someone mad, and I was exhausted.
Why am I telling you this story? Because I know there are other people out there like me. People who lose themselves in the name of love, even if that love isn't healthy. Nobody deserves to be screamed at. Nobody deserves to be berated. I didn't understand that before, but I certainly know it now.
I was so scared to write about my experience, but now I feel empowered by it.
I was so scared to write about my experience, but now I feel empowered by it. I wanted to protect my former fiancé because a part of me still loves him, but I'm finished doing that now. I am trying to remind myself that yes, I am smart, funny, and strong. I didn't feel like I was any of those things for a long time. I'm having a hard time telling myself that now, but I will believe it again soon.
If you feel like you're being emotionally abused, trust your gut. Don't make excuses for it like I did. Learn from me. Talk to someone you trust. You may feel like you can't live without your partner, but you can. It will hurt. I'm still hurting every single day. But little by little, you will find yourself again. You won't believe you lived the way you did because of how happy you are now. And you will be stronger for it.
If you or a loved one are in need of any help, the Office on Women's Health has several resources here, including links to national hotlines.
40 Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes to Make All Season Long
Crisp Fall days are meant for comfort food, and there are so many ways to make that happen with Fall produce. Pumpkin pastas, butternut squash soups, and more hearty Autumn dinners will warm your soul and fill you up on chilly nights. Consider this your ultimate guide to Fall dinner recipes that you'll want to make all season long.
I Was in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship, and I Didn't Even Realize It
At 23 years old, I fell fast and hard for an outgoing, charismatic man. When we began dating, he made me feel special, beautiful, and loved. I decided that any negative aspect of our relationship didn't matter because he loved me so much - there was a reasonable explanation for all of it. So when he proposed to me after almost a year of dating, I was overjoyed. I found a guy who wanted to commit his life to me. We were going to build a future together.
Six months into our engagement, that image of our life crumbled to pieces. My fiancé decided that he didn't want to marry me anymore, and it felt like a tragedy. I dreaded telling my friends and family; I was devastated. But their reactions to my news were not what I expected at all. One friend broke into tears. Another told me she was proud of me. My family felt guilty that they had let the relationship progress as much as it did.
They were relieved that my engagement to this man was over. Everyone had been scared for me, and I didn't get why. I was confused.
Everyone had been scared for me, and I didn't get why. I was confused.
This was the worst thing that had ever happened to me, wasn't it? But then, loved ones started telling me of times when they wish they had said something to me. Times when my fiancé would put me down or yell at me in public. And as more people stepped forward and told me that ending this relationship was a good thing (including this guy's own close friends), I came to a horrifying realization.
I was emotionally abused, and I could not admit to myself that it was happening at the time.
There were glimmers of problems from the beginning of our relationship, but I made the choice to ignore them. He would say little things to me or shout for a moment, but I brushed it off. It didn't become bad until we moved in together a month after our engagement.
My friends only saw what was happening in front of them, but behind closed doors it was even worse.
The first memory I have of definitive emotional abuse was an evening just a week or two after we moved into our apartment. We were sitting at the bar below our place having a drink when I noticed that he was getting Snapchats from a girl he nicknamed Kate Upton in his phone. I had mentioned to him once before that this made me uncomfortable, so when I saw that she had popped up once again, I questioned him about it. And he became furious with me.
He immediately stomped up the stairs to our apartment, and I quickly followed behind. He was livid. He told me I was ridiculous and jealous for questioning if he would be inappropriately interacting with another girl. And I felt terrible that I would ever question him - we were getting married, after all.
But the more I cried and apologized, the more he screamed at me.
But the more I cried and apologized, the more he screamed at me. I began to have a panic attack and I melted down to the ground, curled up in a ball in the hallway. But instead of stopping the yelling, he stood over me and continued to scream. I started hyperventilating. He told me I was faking it and I was pathetic. After he finished the shouting, he walked away from me. We were silent for about 20 minutes, then we got into bed and went to sleep. The next morning, he said he was sorry, but I needed to calm down with my emotions. So in the end, I was the one apologizing for what transpired the night before.
This was not a one-time thing. There were many more fights like this. And in the end I was always the one made to feel guilty. How dare I ever question him - he proposed to me. How could I do that to him? I was disgusted with myself for doubting him on a regular basis. I told myself that it was my anxiety making me paranoid.
But the screaming wasn't the only problem. This man would criticize me, put me down, and make me feel small constantly. If he didn't like something I was wearing, he would make sure I knew it. He told me I wasn't very funny and he didn't get why my friends laughed at me. He would constantly belittle me for being clumsy. I was afraid to spill something in front of him.
Another problem entirely was his lack of respect for people close to him. I watched him yell at his family on a regular basis over the tiniest things. He started off being incredibly close with my parents (they even helped him pick out my engagement ring), but as soon as we started planning the wedding, everything changed.
I started gaining weight. I became very quiet at work. I saw less of my friends. I felt bad about myself, but I didn't understand why. Wedding planning was not fun; I found it stressful. Like always, I told myself it was all in my head.
He had a lot of opinions about how he envisioned our wedding should be, and if my parents or I had a differing opinion, he was angry about it. We weren't putting a dime of our own money into the big day, so I felt weird about his resentment toward any ideas other than his own. When I tried to tell him that, he would tell me I was wrong. "Don't you love me because I have a lot of opinions?" he would say.
He stopped visiting my family with me. When I mentioned my parents, he would make snide remarks about them. I stopped talking about them altogether because it made me uncomfortable. My family loved me, and all they were trying to do was give us a dream wedding.
I loved this guy so much that I didn't care how I was feeling on the inside.
I loved this guy so much that I didn't care how I was feeling on the inside. I would do anything for him, and he knew that. So when he told me he was unhappy in our relationship, I asked him what I could do to fix that. All he could say was that he didn't know.
Eventually he told me that proposing to me was a mistake, but he wanted me to stay with him to see if we could work things out. More specifically, if I could fix all the things that were "wrong with me." And I did stay for a while. I so desperately wanted him to wake up and realize that no woman would love him the way I did. But he went about every day like things were normal, and I woke up every morning filled with dread, unsure of my future.
I asked him what was going on with our relationship a couple times, and each time it would result in an intense fight where we would part ways and stay with our families for a night or two. He told me I was impossible to talk to because I was too emotional.
After a weekend without hearing from him, I texted him asking if we could meet at the apartment and talk. His response - "Why?" I told him we needed to figure out what was going on, and he told me it wasn't a good thing for him personally to talk to me. We ended things.
I said I was moving out, so he went through everything I owned and put it in the middle of the family room. "I hope I made it a little easier for you," he said. While I sat at my parents' house (my new temporary home) and cried for a week straight, I received texts and calls from all over town - people told me he was out drinking most nights with his friends. They were confused by his actions. It hurt.
He blocked me and my friends from every social media platform. But that didn't stop the awful screenshots of his tweets bragging about going out and joking about needing a wingman. Even his friends were not loyal to him because they knew he turned me into a shell of the person I used to be.
A week later, on top of everything I had just gone through, I learned that he was not faithful to me. He was sending all sorts of photos of his penis to another girl before we were even engaged. Several people who knew about the exchanges informed me, even providing physical proof that the "other girl" admitted to all of it.
When I confronted him and his parents about his infidelity (bravest thing I've ever done, by the way), he pulled me to the side and asked me why I was trying to ruin his life. "We're done, Macy," he shouted at me. "You're trying to cause drama."
But I wasn't trying to cause drama. For the first time in my life, I was standing up to him. He had made me feel so guilty for questioning him all this time. And that feeling in the pit of my stomach was right all along. After trying to protect him and our relationship for a year and a half of my life, I was done. I missed who I used to be. I missed being happy. I realized that I had dedicated a huge period of my life trying to make sure I didn't make someone mad, and I was exhausted.
Why am I telling you this story? Because I know there are other people out there like me. People who lose themselves in the name of love, even if that love isn't healthy. Nobody deserves to be screamed at. Nobody deserves to be berated. I didn't understand that before, but I certainly know it now.
I was so scared to write about my experience, but now I feel empowered by it.
I was so scared to write about my experience, but now I feel empowered by it. I wanted to protect my former fiancé because a part of me still loves him, but I'm finished doing that now. I am trying to remind myself that yes, I am smart, funny, and strong. I didn't feel like I was any of those things for a long time. I'm having a hard time telling myself that now, but I will believe it again soon.
If you feel like you're being emotionally abused, trust your gut. Don't make excuses for it like I did. Learn from me. Talk to someone you trust. You may feel like you can't live without your partner, but you can. It will hurt. I'm still hurting every single day. But little by little, you will find yourself again. You won't believe you lived the way you did because of how happy you are now. And you will be stronger for it.
If you or a loved one are in need of any help, the Office on Women's Health has several resources here, including links to national hotlines.
The 1 Simple Thing My Husband Does to Show Me He Cares Every Day
Marriage is hard. For many of us, when we're engaged, we picture marriage to be blissful and peaceful. But after you become newlyweds, you quickly discover that marriage can be strenuous. You learn that your husband ticks you off because he can't seem to land his dirty laundry in the hamper. My husband and I are no different. We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary, and while I'd love to report that it's been smooth sailing, that would be a mammoth lie. Yes, we've endured a lot this past decade: cancer-stricken parents, job loss, and adding two children to the mix. But the one thing that has kept us strong is how we show the other person that we care, that they're appreciated every single day - no matter what.
The one thing that has kept us strong is how we show the other person that we care, that they're appreciated every single day - no matter what.
Believe it or not, the one thing that my husband does for me that means the most is simply making the coffee every morning. Regardless of what's going on in our lives, it's he who always takes the time to make that glorious caffeine brew. And while he drinks a little of it in the morning, too, he does it for me to show me that he cares.
Yes, making the coffee is a simple task. You pour the water, dump the coffee grounds, and press the "on" button. Voilà. In minutes, you have caffeine ready to circulate through your veins to help wake you up. But because I am a stay-at-home and work-from-home mother, my husband understands that this coffee is vital for me before the rowdy children wake up and wreak havoc on our home. He knows that I relish in my solitude during the early hours of the morning to kick-start my day. And he understands that I need that warm mug between my hands while I'm nuzzled on the couch to really help ground myself for all that the day will bring.
Between settling sibling fights and writing articles, juggling the day's responsibilities can be tough. My husband leaves home to go to his office every morning. So, while he doesn't really get the pressure of working from home with little terrors trying to rule the home, he does appreciate what I do inside of it. He gets that working from home with the kids also means scrubbing toilets, making three meals, and cleaning . . . all day long. My husband and I do our best to thank each other for the different roles that we take on within our family. No one is better than the other. No job is more difficult. And we appreciate it all.
No, our marriage is not perfect. We argue weekly about both the big and small things, from not refilling the Brita before it goes back into the fridge to not understanding my feelings on a heated subject. But when I wake up the next morning after an altercation and see that the coffee is made, my heart softens. Yes, the one thing my husband and I always try to do is show each other that we care. Because if we stop showing each other that we appreciate each other, what will we have left? So, while making me coffee each and every morning is a small task, I sure hope that my husband continues to do it when our skin is wrinkled and the hair on our heads turns white. Because not only does it revitalize my day, but our marriage, too.
9 Podcasts That Make Me Look Forward to My Morning Commute
I love starting my day with a 30-minute commute by foot, partially because it gets my blood flowing and partially because it gives me time to listen to podcasts. While some podcasts should be reserved for longer periods of time (looking at you, Anna Faris Is Unqualified's two-hour-long episodes), others are ideal for quick listening in the morning. I've come to love a handful of podcast series that I look forward to playing when I'm in the mood to hear a thought-provoking conversation instead of music. The range includes politics, badass women, helpful cooking convos, and insightful life advice (Thank you, Oprah). If you're looking for some inspiration to switch up your downloaded queue, consider the nine informative podcasts ahead.
Anyone For Tennis? Sophie Turner and Joe Jonas Share a Kiss at the US Open
Tennis fans Sophie Turner and Joe Jonas made their second visit to the US Open on Monday, and though they were clearly very involved with the action on court as they watched both Maria Sharapova and Roger Federer get knocked out of the competition, they also found themselves getting a little distracted . . . by each other. The loved-up couple, who got engaged in October last year, were spotted kissing in the stands during a quiet moment on court.
They were joined for part of the day by Joe's older brother Kevin and his wife Danielle, who seems to have a tight bond with her sister-in-law to be. The two sat next to each other, giggling and taking photographs. Danielle's not the only Jonas family member who's been won over by the Game of Thrones actress; Kevin Jonas Sr. has also sung the praises of his son's fiancée and she's clearly a much-loved part of the family. We still don't know when Sophie and Joe's wedding will take place, but it's not the only big Jonas wedding in the works. Nick Jonas is set to marry Priyanka Chopra after proposing to the actress in May. Sophie's already spoken out about their relationship, describing Priyanka as "beautiful, inside and out."
Meghan Markle Made This Bag Sell Out in 11 Minutes - Now You Can Buy It at Nordstrom
Like clockwork, when Meghan Markle wears something new, we almost instantly add it to our virtual shopping carts. One of the things we love most about her wardrobe is her covetable bag collection. While Kate Middleton is known for pairing delicate clutches with her looks, Meghan has strayed away from the tiny bags and worn more relatable totes and crossbody styles.
The Dutchess of Sussex often wears one of her favorite brands, Scottish luxury label Starthberry. On her first royal outing, she carried this Strathberry Midi Tote ($675), and according to a press release from the brand, the bag sold out in just 11 minutes. Meghan later stepped out in Edinburgh wearing this Strathberry East/West Crossbody Bag ($645) and we knew we needed it.
With the "Meghan Markle effect" in full force, it hasn't always been easy getting your hands on these stylish bags. But not to worry, because we have good news for you: the highly sought-after brand has officially landed at Nordstrom. You don't need to waste your time scouring the site, either, because we hunted down its best picks so all you have to do is shop. You won't want to drag your feet, though; there's no telling how fast these ones will go.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best White T-Shirt of Your Life
You think you've found a favorite white tee. You reach for it an embarrassing amount of times in just one week, and when it's not folded up neatly in your drawer, you kind of freak out a little, praying it's just in the hamper. But is it truly your perfect match? There are plenty of brands out there you've probably never heard of, some of which might make the right fit for you.
There's only one way to find out if a t-shirt's up to par: by wearing it. That's why we polled our editors and asked them to share their go-tos, along with a brief description of the structure, slouch, and feel of the top. The results are in, and surprisingly (or perhaps not), Everlane, Madewell, Hanes, and ATM got the most votes. But if those aren't for you, scroll to read up on 14 standout options - they're all a bit different, but we promise each one will look good tucked into your jeans.
The 1 Simple Thing My Husband Does to Show Me He Cares Every Day
Marriage is hard. For many of us, when we're engaged, we picture marriage to be blissful and peaceful. But after you become newlyweds, you quickly discover that marriage can be strenuous. You learn that your husband ticks you off because he can't seem to land his dirty laundry in the hamper. My husband and I are no different. We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary, and while I'd love to report that it's been smooth sailing, that would be a mammoth lie. Yes, we've endured a lot this past decade: cancer-stricken parents, job loss, and adding two children to the mix. But the one thing that has kept us strong is how we show the other person that we care, that they're appreciated every single day - no matter what.
The one thing that has kept us strong is how we show the other person that we care, that they're appreciated every single day - no matter what.
Believe it or not, the one thing that my husband does for me that means the most is simply making the coffee every morning. Regardless of what's going on in our lives, it's he who always takes the time to make that glorious caffeine brew. And while he drinks a little of it in the morning, too, he does it for me to show me that he cares.
Yes, making the coffee is a simple task. You pour the water, dump the coffee grounds, and press the "on" button. Voilà. In minutes, you have caffeine ready to circulate through your veins to help wake you up. But because I am a stay-at-home and work-from-home mother, my husband understands that this coffee is vital for me before the rowdy children wake up and wreak havoc on our home. He knows that I relish in my solitude during the early hours of the morning to kick-start my day. And he understands that I need that warm mug between my hands while I'm nuzzled on the couch to really help ground myself for all that the day will bring.
Between settling sibling fights and writing articles, juggling the day's responsibilities can be tough. My husband leaves home to go to his office every morning. So, while he doesn't really get the pressure of working from home with little terrors trying to rule the home, he does appreciate what I do inside of it. He gets that working from home with the kids also means scrubbing toilets, making three meals, and cleaning . . . all day long. My husband and I do our best to thank each other for the different roles that we take on within our family. No one is better than the other. No job is more difficult. And we appreciate it all.
No, our marriage is not perfect. We argue weekly about both the big and small things, from not refilling the Brita before it goes back into the fridge to not understanding my feelings on a heated subject. But when I wake up the next morning after an altercation and see that the coffee is made, my heart softens. Yes, the one thing my husband and I always try to do is show each other that we care. Because if we stop showing each other that we appreciate each other, what will we have left? So, while making me coffee each and every morning is a small task, I sure hope that my husband continues to do it when our skin is wrinkled and the hair on our heads turns white. Because not only does it revitalize my day, but our marriage, too.
9 Podcasts That Make Me Look Forward to My Morning Commute
I love starting my day with a 30-minute commute by foot, partially because it gets my blood flowing and partially because it gives me time to listen to podcasts. While some podcasts should be reserved for longer periods of time (looking at you, Anna Faris Is Unqualified's two-hour-long episodes), others are ideal for quick listening in the morning. I've come to love a handful of podcast series that I look forward to playing when I'm in the mood to hear a thought-provoking conversation instead of music. The range includes politics, badass women, helpful cooking convos, and insightful life advice (Thank you, Oprah). If you're looking for some inspiration to switch up your downloaded queue, consider the nine informative podcasts ahead.
40 Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes to Make All Season Long
Crisp Fall days are meant for comfort food, and there are so many ways to make that happen with Fall produce. Pumpkin pastas, butternut squash soups, and more hearty Autumn dinners will warm your soul and fill you up on chilly nights. Consider this your ultimate guide to Fall dinner recipes that you'll want to make all season long.
A 4-Move Full-Body Workout to Increase Your Strength and Build Lean Muscle
One of my favorite pieces of equipment in the gym is the sled. I like designing strength and power workouts with the sled because when moving the thing around you focus on functional movements (things you do every day not just in a gym) and you work the major muscle groups.
If you're new to training with the sled, this four-move workout I created is a great place to start. You'll be doing both pushing and pulling movements to strengthen your legs, butt, arms, and back.
Most sleds weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, so keep this in mind when adding weighted plates. First, try pushing the sled alone to get a sense of the weight and then increase the weight from there. I suggest starting with a total of 100 to 125 pounds, but feel free to decrease or increase the weight as needed. One last thing: always keep your arms fully extended when pushing the sled. In the event that you fall, you'll be able to catch yourself with your hands instead of hitting your face on the body of the sled.
The Workout:
After completing a thorough warmup, repeat this four-exercise sled circuit four times, resting two to three minutes between rounds. Don't forget to cool down afterward.
- High push: 25-50 meters
- Rows: 25-50 meters
- Low push: 25-50 meters
- Backward walk: 25-50 meters
I Taped My Mouth Shut While I Slept For 5 Days - Here's What Happened
Mouthbreather. If we're talking sleeping styles, the familiar Stranger Things insult could easily be flung my way. I've always maintained a "comfortable" sleep position for most of my life: laying on my stomach or side, head burrowed into a pillow, with my mouth slightly open. Drool? Embarrassing, but definitely present.
While my sleeping style is pretty much habitual, I recently noticed my quality of rest decreasing. It's definitely not terrible, but I'd often wake up in the middle of the night, sometimes with a sore throat, which I'd chalk up to seasonal allergies, and spend the remaining hours of my night chasing down the REM stage. I saw a friend of mine post about using "mouth tape" at night; at first I was skeptical and a little bit spooked. The goal of mouth taping is to force nose breathing while you sleep instead of relying heavily on your mouth. The idea seemed slightly uncomfortable to me, but I couldn't abandon the feeling that it might be the solution to my (minor) sleeping woes.
According to SomniFix, a brand which offers its own line of hypoallergenic nighttime mouth strips, there are many benefits to taping before bed, including: deep sleep, more efficient carbon dioxide-oxygen exchange, and reduced sinus and oral discomforts. All good things, right? I decided to give mouth taping a try, partially for the claimed benefits and partially for my own entertainment. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't mostly slightly intrigued by the "weirdness" of it all.
I Gave Up Caffeine For a Year, and I'm Actually More Energetic
In high school and university, I was an absolute coffee addict. I used to down shots of espresso without feeling a thing. I had at least a cup a day, if not two or three - usually with four sugars and some milk. That all changed when I became vegan and began taking better care of myself. I have eczema, and in the process of healing my skin, I discovered that drinking coffee or tea seemed to make it worse. I decided to cut out caffeine for good.
It was only after giving up coffee that I realized how much I relied on it. I had grown accustomed to staying up super late, knowing that an energy drink, espresso, or cup of coffee would be waiting for me in the morning. By midday, I'd crash and have another. Eventually, I built up such a tolerance that I'd come home from class and immediately fall asleep. Needless to say, those first days without caffeine were tough - everywhere I went, it seemed to be taunting me - but after a few weeks, the idea of having a cup of coffee barely crossed my mind.
There Are Other Ways to Refuel
I knew I had to make some changes, so I trained myself to go to bed two to three hours earlier. (Turns out, sleep is the best solution for being tired.) I started a new morning routine, practicing yoga or doing some quick stretches to get the juices flowing. At a cafe, I substituted my usual coffee for a smoothie or caffeine-free tea (chamomile is my favorite). And most importantly, I stopped wearing my exhaustion like a badge of honor.
For years I had felt that I needed to push my body to the limit to be good enough. Then I picked up a book called The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff, in which Taoist principles are explained through the beloved cartoon. In one chapter, Hoff writes about the "Bisy Backson," someone who's constantly doing something, who never has a moment to waste. He notes that the Bisy Backson feels important and productive, but their actions are actually counterproductive, because they only cause unnecessary stress. If I wanted to feel better without caffeine, I had to change my mindset, too.
How It Feels to Be Caffeine-Free
For all its benefits - including lowering a person's risk for a number of diseases - coffee didn't agree with me. When I quit caffeine, my eczema healed, leaving behind soft, smooth skin. I slept better and felt more rested without needing an inappropriately timed nap. I got my energy from even healthier habits, like exercise. I drank more water. I no longer felt anxious and jittery.
It's been a year and a half since I cut caffeine completely, and now that I'm feeling stronger, I allow myself to have some tea or coffee-flavored chocolate once every couple of weeks. I still haven't had coffee - not even an energy drink or soda - but I also rarely crave it. I know this: if I ever do drink it again, I'll be much more careful about how.
On a Low-Carb Diet? Here's a Full Week of Meal Ideas
When it comes to cutting down your carbs, it can be a struggle to feel full after your meals, especially if you're craving that crunch of bread or a bite of pasta. But you don't have to go hungry just because your carbs are restricted. Protein and fats are just as important in your diet because they provide lasting energy to keep you feeling full and satiated after a meal, and it's easy to load up if you plan in advance. So if you're on the keto diet or just trying to eat fewer carbs, here's an easy-to-follow weekly meal plan for when you need to shake things up.
Stretch, Recover, Relax: This Is How to Handle a Rest Day
tBest news ever! If you want to get stronger, you have to rest. Your muscles need time to repair themselves; this is when the strengthening actually happens. Stretching your worked muscles is really important on your chill days. Take 15 to 20 minutes to give your hard working body some TLC with this full-body stretching routine.
Here's the full routine, and do click here for a printable PDF of this stretching plan. Keep on reading for detailed explanations of each stretch.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rice in Your Instant Pot
A friend sent me an Instant Pot in the mail a few months ago, with a note that read, "These are all the rage now." I hadn't heard of them until then, but now, all of a sudden, I've noticed that Instant Pot recipes are everywhere! With all the different options and settings, there's great room for creativity and, especially, for saving time. But it isn't just about casseroles, elaborate meals, or even desserts. Surprisingly, this handy kitchen device can be used to make basics - in about half the time and with a lot less cleanup - like hard-boiled eggs. And rice.
Here's a simple recipe for cooking rice in the Instant Pot. You can extrapolate it, adding oil, butter, chicken stock, or even some tomato paste and onions for a Spanish twist. Or you can just make a bunch of plain rice to have ready throughout the week and serve with other delicious meals you make.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rice in Your Instant Pot
A friend sent me an Instant Pot in the mail a few months ago, with a note that read, "These are all the rage now." I hadn't heard of them until then, but now, all of a sudden, I've noticed that Instant Pot recipes are everywhere! With all the different options and settings, there's great room for creativity and, especially, for saving time. But it isn't just about casseroles, elaborate meals, or even desserts. Surprisingly, this handy kitchen device can be used to make basics - in about half the time and with a lot less cleanup - like hard-boiled eggs. And rice.
Here's a simple recipe for cooking rice in the Instant Pot. You can extrapolate it, adding oil, butter, chicken stock, or even some tomato paste and onions for a Spanish twist. Or you can just make a bunch of plain rice to have ready throughout the week and serve with other delicious meals you make.
Time to Get Spooky! Freeform's 31 Nights of Halloween Schedule Is Here
For Halloween lovers, this is the most wonderful time of the year: Freeform's 31 Nights of Halloween schedule has finally arrived! The network bumped up their spooky and spectacular lineup from 13 days to 31, and includes seasonal favorites like The Addams Family, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Monster House. As usual there are a few Disney classics in the mix (Mulan, Monster's University), and the whole thing concludes with a 24-hour Hocus Pocus marathon! Don't forget to set your DVRs.
Monday, October 1
5pm/4c ParaNorman
7:10pm/6:10c The Nightmare Before Christmas
8:50pm/7:50c Hocus Pocus
12am/11c ParaNorman
Tuesday, October 2
5pm/4c The Nightmare Before Christmas
6:30pm/5:30c Hocus Pocus
8:30pm/7:30c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
12am/11c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Wednesday, October 3
4pm/3c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
6:30pm/5:30c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
9pm/8c Monster House
12am/11c The Final Girls
Thursday, October 4
5pm/4c ParaNorman
7pm/6c Monster House
9pm/8c The Addams Family (1991)
12am/11c Teen Spirit
Friday, October 5
12:30pm/11:30c The Parent Trap (1998)
3:30pm/2:30c Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
6:10pm/5:10c The Addams Family (1991)
8:20pm/7:20c The Goonies
12am/11c The Breakfast Club
Saturday, October 6
7am/6c The Parent Trap (1998)
10:10am/9:10c Monster House
12:20pm/11:20c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
2:50pm/1:50c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
4:55pm/3:55c The Goonies
7:35pm/6:35c Hocus Pocus
Freeform Premiere 9:45pm/8:45c Maleficent
Freeform Premiere 11:50pm/10:50c Warm Bodies
Sunday, October 7
7am/6c Monster House
9:10am/8:10c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
11:40am/10:40c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
1:50pm/12:50c Alice in Wonderland (2010)
4:25pm/3:25c Hocus Pocus
6:35pm/5:35c Maleficent
Freeform Premiere 8:40pm/7:40c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
11:20pm/10:20c Dark Shadows (2012)
Monday, October 8
4pm/3c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
6:30pm/5:30c Dark Shadows (2012)
9pm/8c The Addams Family (1991)
12am/11c Clue (1985)
Tuesday, October 9
3pm/2c Jurassic Park (1993)
6pm/5c The Addams Family (1991)
8pm/7c Mrs. Doubtfire
12am/11c Warm Bodies
Wednesday, October 10
3pm/2c The Lost World: Jurassic Park
6pm/5c Mrs. Doubtfire
9pm/8c Hocus Pocus
12am/11c ParaNorman
Thursday, October 11
4:30pm/3:30c ParaNorman
6:40pm/5:40c Hocus Pocus
8:50pm/7:50c Despicable Me
12am/11c The Boxtrolls
Friday, October 12
2pm/1c The Boxtrolls
4:10pm/3:10c Disney's Bolt
6:20pm/5:20c Despicable Me
8:30pm/7:30c Disney's Frozen
12am/11c Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Saturday, October 13
7am/6c ParaNorman
9:05am/8:05c Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame
11:10am/10:10c Disney's Bolt
1:15pm/12:15c The Nightmare Before Christmas
2:50pm/1:50c Hocus Pocus
5pm/4c Disney's Frozen
7:25pm/6:25c Disney•Pixar's Monsters, Inc.
9:30pm/8:30c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
12am/11c The Addams Family (1991)
Sunday, October 14
7am/6c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
9:30am/8:30c The Nightmare Before Christmas
11:10am/10:10c The Addams Family (1991)
1:15pm/12:15c Hocus Pocus
3:25pm/2:25c Disney•Pixar's Monsters, Inc.
5:30pm/4:30c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
Freeform Premiere 8pm/7c Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
Freeform Premiere 9pm/8c Hotel Transylvania
11pm/10c The Parent Trap (1998)
31 Nights of Halloween - The Official 31 Nights Of Halloween 2018 Movie Schedule - 1018
Monday, October 15
4pm/3c ParaNorman
6pm/5c Hotel Transylvania
8pm/7c The Parent Trap (1998)
12am/11c Monster House
Tuesday, October 16
3:30pm/2:30c Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
4:30pm/3:30c Monster House
6:30pm/5:30c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
8:55pm/7:55c Hocus Pocus
12am/11c Disney's Mulan
Wednesday, October 17
2pm/1c Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
4:30pm/3:30c Disney's Mulan
6:30pm/5:30c Hocus Pocus
8:30pm/7:30c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
12am/11c The Addams Family (1991)
Thursday, October 18
4pm/3c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
6:30pm/5:30c Dark Shadows (2012)
9pm/8c The Addams Family (1991)
Freeform Premiere 12am/11c Maggie
Friday, October 19
3:30pm/2:30c Dark Shadows (2012)
6:10pm/5:10c The Goonies
8:50pm/7:50c Hotel Transylvania
12am/11c Monster House
Saturday, October 20
7am/6c Monster House
9:05am/8:05c ParaNorman
11:10am/10:10c Hocus Pocus
1:20pm/12:20c The Goonies
4pm/3c The Nightmare Before Christmas
5:35pm/4:35c Hotel Transylvania
7:40pm/6:40c Hocus Pocus
9:50pm/8:50c The Addams Family (1991)
11:55pm/10:55c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
Sunday, October 21
7am/6c ParaNorman
9am/8c Spooky Buddies
11:05am/10:05c Hocus Pocus
1:15pm/12:15c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
3:20pm/2:20c The Nightmare Before Christmas
5pm/4c The Addams Family (1991)
7:05pm/6:05c Hocus Pocus
9:15pm/8:15c Maleficent
11:20pm/10:20c Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
Monday, October 22
4pm/3c Maleficent
6:10pm/5:10c Hocus Pocus
Freeform Premiere 8:20pm/7:20c The Witches of Eastwick
12am/11c Warm Bodies
Tuesday, October 23
4pm/3c Hocus Pocus
6:10pm/5:10c The Witches of Eastwick
8:50pm/7:50c The Addams Family (1991)
12am/11c Monster House
Wednesday, October 24
4pm/3c Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
5pm/4c Monster House
7pm/6c The Addams Family (1991)
9pm/8c Hotel Transylvania
12am/11c Spooky Buddies
Thursday, October 25
4pm/3c Jurassic Park (1993)
7pm/6c Hotel Transylvania
9pm/8c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
12am/11c The Final Girls
Friday, October 26
12:30pm/11:30c Jurassic Park (1993)
3:35pm/2:35c The Lost World: Jurassic Park
6:40pm/5:40c The Haunted Mansion (2003)
8:50pm/7:50c Hocus Pocus
12am/11c Teen Spirit
Saturday, October 27
7am/8c Dark Shadows (2012)
9:40am/8:40c Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
12:20pm/11:20c The Addams Family (1991)
2:30pm/1:30c Hocus Pocus
4:40pm/3:40c Disney•Pixar's Monsters, Inc.
6:50pm/5:50c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
9:20pm/8:20c Hotel Transylvania
11:25pm/10:25c Disney•Pixar's Toy Story of TERROR!
11:55pm/10:55c ParaNorman
Sunday, October 28
7am/6c Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
9:40am/8:40c The Addams Family
11:50am/10:50c Hocus Pocus
2pm/1c Disney•Pixar's Toy Story of TERROR!
2:30pm/1:30c Disney•Pixar's Monsters, Inc.
4:35pm/3:35c Disney•Pixar's Monsters University
7:05pm/6:05c Hotel Transylvania
9:10pm/8:10c Hocus Pocus
11:20pm/10:20c The Goonies
31 Nights of Halloween - The Official 31 Nights Of Halloween 2018 Movie Schedule - 1034
Monday, October 29
4:30pm/3:30c The Goonies
7:10pm/6:10c Disney's Big Hero 6
9:20pm/8:20c 25th Anniversary Release - The Nightmare Before Christmas
12am/11c The Addams Family (1991)
Tuesday, October 30
2:30pm/1:30c Disney's Big Hero 6
4:40pm/3:40c Hocus Pocus
6:45pm/5:45c The Nightmare Before Christmas
8:25pm/7:25c Disney•Pixar's Toy Story of TERROR!
8:55pm/7:55c The Addams Family (1991)
12am/11c Warm Bodies
Wednesday, October 31
7:30am/6:30c Hocus Pocus
11am/10c Disney•Pixar's Toy Story of TERROR!
11:30am/10:30c Decorating Disney: Halloween Magic
Hocus Pocus Marathon
12:30pm/11:30c Hocus Pocus
2:40pm/1:40c Hocus Pocus
4:45pm/3:45c Hocus Pocus
6:50pm/5:50c Hocus Pocus
8:55pm/7:55c Hocus Pocus
12am/11c Hocus Pocus
The 1 Boot You Need For Fall 2018, in a Nutshell
Sure, the pin-thin '80s heel and chunky combats are still popular, but the one silhouette you won't be able to ignore this Fall is the Western-inspired cowboy boot. It doesn't just boil down to Kylie Jenner's thigh highs, Dua Lipa's cowgirl style, or Rihanna's cult-favorite Off-White x Jimmy Choo puffers, though these looks certainly gave rise to the viral sensation that is cowboy boots.
Now, they're becoming mainstream. You can find them all over the streets and in plenty of colors, heights, and finishes at your favorite retailers. So while you can definitely get away with keeping your staple booties on rotation, you're going to feel fresh as hell trying out a shape that's brand new. Need some pointers for your outfit? Just read on for a handful, then get to shopping.
Princess Eugenie's Chosen a Wedding Dress Designer, and This Is What We Know
Since Princess Eugenie announced her engagement to Jack Brooksbank back in January, we've been pondering over what her wedding dress might look like. With only a few weeks to go until her big day, a few details have finally started to emerge, and while the designer will remain a secret until the very last minute, we do know one thing for sure: the gown will be from a British fashion house.
Eugenie confirmed the news to British Vogue, saying: "I'm not telling anyone who is making it, but I can say it is a British-based designer." During the interview, the princess also explained how her wedding dress was "the one thing that I was really decisive about. As soon as we announced the wedding, I knew the designer, and the look, straight away. I never thought I'd be the one who knew exactly what I like, but I've been pretty on top of it."
Of course, there are now strong rumors that Erdem could be the chosen designer. Over the years, Eugenie has worn numerous dresses by the fashion house, and she even chose one of them to pose for her engagement portraits. However, there are also other names believed to be in the running. These include Vivienne Westwood, who designed the outfit she wore to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and Ralph & Russo, who designed the gown worn by Meghan Markle for her engagement photos.
But could the princess choose a smaller house such as Gainsbourg, who designed the gorgeous ensemble she wore to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's wedding? Only time will tell. As we patiently wait for her big day, take a look at some of Eugenie's most memorable fashion moments in Erdem, Vivienne Westwood, and Gainsbourg.
12 Lightweight Jackets That Are Perfect for Fall - All From Loft
If you're on the hunt for a new jacket, try investing in one that is versatile and can last you throughout the years. Thin jackets always come in handy during seasonal changes because you can carry them in your purse as a smart "just in case" choice for when you feel that unexpected chill in the air. Not to mention, lighter jackets are great to travel with and easy to pack. Loft is one of those retailers that has a wide range of styles and shades to shop. From floral prints to moto jackets, we found top picks that can instantly upgrade any outfit.
5 Bags That Commanded Runways This Year - and How to Rock Them in 2018
This Summer, pick up a new handbag to take along with you everywhere. We saw some fun twists on old favorites on the runway - from colorful designs that turn heads to timeless neutral purses. This year, resist the urge to pick up another expected bag and shop for something bold and exciting. Ahead, you'll find five of the hottest bag trends that caught out attention, and our top picks for channeling the looks for yourself
Getting Rid of Belly Fat Is Harder Than You Think - Here's How to Do It
I have this fantasy where I eat pizza and Salt & Straw Chocolate Gooey Brownie for every meal but also have abs. I'm not talking, like, a six-pack, but just some nice abdominal definition. (You'd think I'd go all out since this is a fantasy version of myself, but IDK. I'm sure there's something to unpack there.)
While there are probably some people who actually can munch on pizza all the time and somehow manage to look like one of the Amazon warriors from Wonder Woman, that's just not the case for most of us. That's because belly fat is notoriously difficult to get rid of, and lower belly fat can be particularly frustrating. Sometimes I feel like no matter how clean I eat or how many crunches I do, that fat at the lower end of my abdomen just isn't going to go away. Like Winter in 2018 or millennial pink. Unfortunately, while there's no way to spot-reduce fat from certain areas, there are some diet and exercise changes you can make to help reduce fat overall.
I consulted Josh Gallegos, trainer to WWE superstars, and Whitney English, MS, RDN, CPT of Whitney E. RD. Here are their best tips for reducing lower belly fat. And no, crunches are not on the agenda.
These Are the 10 Most Flattering Trends to Rock This Fall
With Fall nearly here, you're probably ready to break out your favorite sweaters, jeans, and leather jackets. If your closet is in need of a style revamp, just look to the Fall fashion trends that designers, bloggers, and street style stars have already embraced. The best part? All of the season's biggest trends are not only stylish and fashion-forward but super flattering and easy to pull off, too.
From sexy side slits to chic plaid prints and sleek tailored suiting, these are the styles that are bound to look good on everyone regardless of body types, shapes or sizes. Click through to see all the universally flattering trends, then give your Fall wardrobe an upgrade by shopping the trendsetting pieces for yourself.
This Is How Long It'll Take For Intermittent Fasting to Work
When it comes to getting healthier and toning up your body, one of the most popular of the countless options out there right now is intermittent fasting (or IF, for short). IF includes several different approaches to choose from, but most involve eating for only a short period of time during the day and/or limiting the amount of calories you consume. The results are apparent to those who've tried the method, but according to the experts, you need at least 10 weeks of following a few basic rules to see any changes.
Read on for more details about how best to make IF work for you, including whether the time of day you're eating has an impact on your waistline and what other benefits you can expect from the method, aside from a lower number on the scale.
lundi 3 septembre 2018
Should You Hire an Astrologer to Be Your Matchmaker?
Finding love, specifically someone you can see yourself with for the long haul, can be an incredibly daunting task. Dating can be tough on its own, and then even if you find someone you connect with, you may notice differences and "deal breakers" over time that can cause you two to split. All of that emotional stress can take a toll! Could only putting in effort with those you're compatible with, according to astrology, help in weeding out the good from the bad and increasing your chances of success?
We spoke with an astrologer to get the scoop on how knowing more about your sign can help you find a partner. Here's why using astrology could be the secret sauce to finding your soul mate.
7 Ways to Dress as Princess Charlotte This Halloween, No Royal Title Required
Princess Charlotte is steadily becoming the royal family's tiniest icon, and her adorable outfits and free-spirited attitude will undoubtedly make for a great Halloween costume for kids at heart. The spunky 3-year-old has racked up lots of cute public moments, from her first day of school to her scene-stealing appearance at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding, and we're providing the inspiration for those who want to pay homage to the royal toddler this year. Keep reading to see our Charlotte costume ideas, then check out how you can channel her famous parents on the holiday, too.
Should You Hire an Astrologer to Be Your Matchmaker?
Finding love, specifically someone you can see yourself with for the long haul, can be an incredibly daunting task. Dating can be tough on its own, and then even if you find someone you connect with, you may notice differences and "deal breakers" over time that can cause you two to split. All of that emotional stress can take a toll! Could only putting in effort with those you're compatible with, according to astrology, help in weeding out the good from the bad and increasing your chances of success?
We spoke with an astrologer to get the scoop on how knowing more about your sign can help you find a partner. Here's why using astrology could be the secret sauce to finding your soul mate.
This Heated Mattress Pad Is a Total Game Changer For Those Cold Ass Nights
A heated mattress pad may sound like the sort of bedding accoutrement that your elderly grandparent boasts about, but lend me your ear. When the temperatures dip to the high 30s at night (at least they do where I live in Northern California), there's nothing quite as uninviting as climbing into a frigid bed. The sheets can feel glacial and rough, and while I'm not actually elderly, my bones can hurt.
On a whim, I ordered this Sunbeam Quilted Heated Mattress Pad With Dual EasySet Pro Controllers ($70) because it had over 1,900 Amazon reviews. I wasted no time introducing it to my bed and climbing aboard.
Aside from the most obvious and immediate benefit of having it - it made me warm and toasty - it soothed my muscles and back instantly. I'd used a heating pad in the past when my hips or back were tight (again, I'm not elderly), but I found I got way too hot, way too quickly. The mattress pad creates more of a lukewarm sensation that softly coasts through my bones . . . similar to what you might experience while getting a massage. And what's even better is that nothing changed, comfort-wise. There are no nagging coils, though occasionally I can feel the plug with my feet - it's located at the base of the mattress pad. It's not enough to irritate me, though, because I'm too busy blissfully falling asleep in my cozy cocoon.
I Haven't Eaten Dairy For 4 Years, and I've Experienced These 12 Massive Health Benefits
As a young animal lover, I stopped eating meat when I was 13 years old, and dairy was an absolute staple. I didn't think anything was wrong with it because it wasn't like the cows were being killed, right? Wrong. So wrong. It wasn't until four years ago, when I watched the documentary Vegucated, that I found out how inhumane the dairy industry is. I had no idea! Cows are artificially impregnated at an alarming rate, and after they gave birth, their babies are brutally taken away from them immediately and hooked up to a machine to give their milk to us. I was sobbing watching a farmer drag a newborn calf away from its mama while she screamed and tried to chase after it as they held her back.
I live in Vermont, where the joke is that there are more cows than people. I spoke to tons of small family farms to find out the truth. They all nodded. I was shocked that one very well-known organic farm explained, "The reason we separate the calf right away is so they don't bond. Already you can hear the moms and calves mooing to each other, and it'd be much worse if they stayed together." It made me sick. As a mother of two, my heart ached, and I felt compelled to give dairy up overnight.
Aside from feeling good about not supporting the cruel dairy industry, I had no idea how dramatically my life would improve over the past four years. Here are the amazing health benefits I experienced after going dairy-free.
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