Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 29 février 2020
With One Seriously Stunning Floor Routine, Jade Carey Wins Gymnastics World Cup Gold
Gymnast Jade Carey inched closer to her dream of Olympic qualification on Feb. 24 in Melbourne, Australia. The American gymnast performed a high-flying floor routine that secured gold at a Gymnastics World Cup competition, and it's not hard to see why: each tumbling pass had incredible height and execution, her split leaps showed off major flexibility, and she nailed one stuck landing after another. Jade ended up with a score of 14.366 - more than 0.6 points higher than her closest competitor.
The winning routine not only earned her a World Cup medal, but helps her on her way to the 2020 Summer Olympics. Jade, a two-event specialist, is attempting to qualify for the Olympics through the World Cup individual event route. If she's successful, she'll forfeit her spot at the team event, so she wouldn't be able to win a gold alongside her US teammates. However, she would be able to compete for a medal in the individual events she qualifies in: either floor, vault, or both. (Jade's vault at Worlds was second only to that of Simone Biles, aka the most decorated gymnast in World Championship history.) She has to finish first in her events, based on points racked up throughout the tour, in order to qualify.
It's a little complicated, but the upshot is that with every World Cup win, Jade gets a little closer to stamping her ticket to her first Olympics; she'll know by the end of the World Cup series in March if she's in. Fingers crossed - but if she keeps turning out routines like this one, we have a pretty good feeling! Watch Jade's full gold-medal-winning routine for yourself above.
How Birds of Prey Captures Female Rage So Well
Before seeing DC's Birds of Prey, I rewatched Greta Gerwig's Little Women a second time. Unsurprisingly, these two cinematic experiences were as different as night and day, one a vulgar rainbow confetti fever dream and the other a cozy, understated hug of a period piece. But revisiting Little Women deepened my appreciation for Birds of Prey, helping me unearth the profound message beneath the latter's raunch and violence: Harley Quinn's solo movie radically paints a picture of female rage and provides a catharsis that women in comic book films don't often get.
In Little Women, Marmee March (Laura Dern) explains to Jo (Saoirse Ronan) that she is angry nearly every day of her life. But she's learned to control her anger, not allowing it to get to her. Marmee's response isn't exclusive to the experiences of Civil War wives. Women still have many legitimate reasons to be angry today. Endangered reproductive healthcare, impossible beauty standards, and commonplace harassment make up a sliver of the issues modern women face. Yet we must react to these indignities calmly lest someone calls us a nag or a b*tch. As Black Canary (Jurnee Smollet-Bell) soulfully sings, this is a man's world.
"I still craved female characters who didn't need to be softened by an innate sense of goodness.
Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel are the shiniest beacons of hope when it comes to female representation in comic book movies. Gal Gadot and Brie Larson portray warm, righteous characters who strive for good. Their motivations are noble, to save the world with love and end wars. While I adored these superheroines, I still craved female characters who didn't need to be softened by an innate sense of goodness. I wanted those wholly in touch with their feelings - even the ugliest ones.
Enter Birds of Prey. The women in this movie are far from virtuous. In fact, they're selfish, violent, and deceptive. But the film underlines how terrible men have wronged them and how these wrongs have hardened them. There's Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), who's pissed for reasons that go beyond losing her BEC sandwich. After leaving a toxic relationship with the Joker, she faces the Black Mask (Ewan McGregor), who holds her hostage and threatens to murder her. Detective Renee Montoya (Rosie Perez) bites her tongue as her male colleagues undermine her, even though she's built a case against the Black Mask. Then there's Black Canary, who gets fed up with her boss' misogyny and turns on him. The angriest of them all is the Huntress (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), who very much has rage problems and devotes herself to a vendetta against her family's killers.
The birds unleash their anger with visceral violence. But their fits of rage aren't self-indulgent girl power moments. They feel earned, actually, given the thoughtful exposition of these characters. The slams, punches, and shots don't so much glorify bloodlust as they release pent up frustrations. The film's ultimate catharsis culminates in Black Canary's primal scream, one that would blow Meryl Streep's Big Little Lies character out of the water in a hot second.
Obviously, acting on anger isn't the healthiest coping mechanism. In the portrayal of rage also lies the danger of women being framed as volatile. But revealing the extent of women's anger gives them the space to be emotionally complex. It forces us to think about the societal factors that trigger rage. Wonder Woman shows women that they can be anything they want to be. Birds of Prey, alternatively, conveys the message that women can possess a full range of emotions, especially the not-so-pleasant ones. It dramatically presents the possibility that women don't have to bottle up their anger and let it eat them alive - not that you have to go as far as hunting your enemies with a crossbow.
I Have Bipolar Disorder, and Here's What I Wish More People Understood
Growing up, I was always a rambunctious and energetic child. In my mind, I was creative, extroverted, and unique. To my family and teachers, I was a whole lot; my energy seemed more like hyperactivity, my mood often changed, and I would go through periods of impulsive behavior. When my mom brought it to the attention of a doctor, I was diagnosed with ADHD. I spent most of my adolescence trying different medications to help manage the symptoms.
Then in college, I began struggling with self-harm, and with the help of my parents, I started seeing a therapist regularly. The therapist eventually referred me to a psychiatrist, who officially diagnosed me with bipolar II disorder. Strangely, this came as a relief. I finally understood more about the way my brain works and how to treat my condition. But while medication and therapy were immensely helpful in balancing my brain chemistry, I still struggled with one element of having a severe mental illness: the stigma. There's been a lot of progress made in how we talk about mental illness in society, but I quickly learned that we still have a long way to go. There are a lot of misconceptions about bipolar disorder, specifically, and I've experienced firsthand the way these can paint people's perceptions of a person who's living with it.
In my experience, few people understand that there are actually several conditions that fall under the umbrella of bipolar disorder. People are usually most familiar with bipolar I, which is characterized by major depressive episodes and intermittent periods of mania that can be severe enough to require hospitalization. With bipolar II disorder, I cycle between periods of major depression and shorter, much less severe episodes of hypomania. I've also encountered the misconception that bipolar disorder is interchangeable with schizophrenia, an illness that can distort a person's reality, so much so that they may experience hallucinations or delusions. That distinction is very important.
My hope is that everyone who struggles with bipolar disorder can come to feel the same way: accepted, loved, and supported.
There are so many things that I wish more people understood about my condition. I wish I could dispel with the idea that having bipolar II means that I'm "moody" or "crazy." My brain chemistry is simply different from other people's, and that's OK. I also wish people who understood bipolar disorder wouldn't diminish the impact bipolar II can have on a person's life, as though the diagnosis is in some way less valid than bipolar I. For that matter, I wish more people understood that bipolar disorder looks different for everyone. I have several friends with bipolar I or bipolar II. Some rarely have episodes at all, while others have been hospitalized multiple times, myself included.
For me, the depressive episodes are noticeably deep, and my manic episodes can be concerning and even scary for those who witness them firsthand. Without my medication, there were times I experienced episodes so intense that they threatened my life. Thankfully, with the support and accountability of family and friends, I am healthy and balanced today. My illness is a part of my life, but I refuse to let it control me - and I've become strong enough not to allow these misconceptions to affect me. My hope is that everyone who struggles with bipolar disorder can come to feel the same way: accepted, loved, and supported.
If you feel like you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, the National Alliance on Mental Illness has resources available and a helpline (1-800-950-6264), or text "NAMI" to 741741. You can also email info@nami.org.
I Stopped Waiting For the Time or Motivation to Exercise, and That Changed Everything
I love feeling my heart pound in my chest as I struggle to catch my breath during a hard workout, the shaky, tired legs after a long run and sore muscles from lifting heavy weights . . . but it hasn't always been that way.
Exercise and I have been in a turbulent relationship most of my life. I would go through periods of hitting the treadmill every day and then go weeks or months with dust collecting on my running shoes in the hallway closet. I would make excuses. I would wait until I felt motivated or saw the number on the scale steadily rising. I'd tell myself I would start exercising again next week when my busy schedule eased up a little, but I always struggled to find the time.
Then something changed.
I was diagnosed with a chronic disease. I became a mom and was juggling a career, kids, and a marriage. It was exhausting. I quickly realized that if I was going to not only survive, but thrive in this stage of my life, I was going to have to put in the work (and the sweat). I decided that in order to have energy, I was going to have to create energy by moving my body as often as my busy schedule allowed. I stopped waiting for the motivation to go to the gym and simply decided it was nonnegotiable.
These days, I make time to work out almost every day. This doesn't mean spending hours in the gym.
My goal is to move my body for at least 10 minutes a day. This can translate to a mile jog or a quick HIIT workout. I go for a walk or take a yoga class. I lift weights at least a couple times a week because being strong is the example I want to set for my kids. And I do all this even on days when I don't feel like it. (Which if I'm honest, is more days than not.) I schedule workout classes for first thing in the morning so I don't have time to change my mind, or I lace up my shoes and go for a jog when I'm crunched for time, reminding myself that if I don't get it in now, it won't happen. Don't think, just move.
A funny thing happens when exercise becomes a part of your daily life: it also mends your relationship with your body.
That said, if I miss a couple days or even weeks because someone's sick or I'm feeling rundown, I no longer beat myself up about it. I look at the big picture, which for me is my overall health and energy, and I get back to moving my body when I can. I've found this balance of not waiting for motivation, and yet listening to my body when it needs a break, to be key in getting into a consistent routine. I had to mend my relationship with exercise.
A funny thing happens when exercise becomes a part of your daily life: it also mends your relationship with your body. There may be moments when I don't love the extra dimples on my thighs, but knowing those strong, muscular legs can run a 10K fills me with pride. I support the movement to unapologetically love your body, but I think it's equally as important to respect it, and working out regularly has helped me do just that. Particularly in light of my illness, which carries the high probability that I'll exclusively use a wheelchair one day, every workout has become a celebration of what my body is capable of.
So, every chance I get, I lace up my sneakers and tighten my ponytail. Whether I feel like it or not. I sweat, I curse, and when I'm done, I'm just so grateful for what my body can do.
How Birds of Prey Captures Female Rage So Well
Before seeing DC's Birds of Prey, I rewatched Greta Gerwig's Little Women a second time. Unsurprisingly, these two cinematic experiences were as different as night and day, one a vulgar rainbow confetti fever dream and the other a cozy, understated hug of a period piece. But revisiting Little Women deepened my appreciation for Birds of Prey, helping me unearth the profound message beneath the latter's raunch and violence: Harley Quinn's solo movie radically paints a picture of female rage and provides a catharsis that women in comic book films don't often get.
In Little Women, Marmee March (Laura Dern) explains to Jo (Saoirse Ronan) that she is angry nearly every day of her life. But she's learned to control her anger, not allowing it to get to her. Marmee's response isn't exclusive to the experiences of Civil War wives. Women still have many legitimate reasons to be angry today. Endangered reproductive healthcare, impossible beauty standards, and commonplace harassment make up a sliver of the issues modern women face. Yet we must react to these indignities calmly lest someone calls us a nag or a b*tch. As Black Canary (Jurnee Smollet-Bell) soulfully sings, this is a man's world.
"I still craved female characters who didn't need to be softened by an innate sense of goodness.
Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel are the shiniest beacons of hope when it comes to female representation in comic book movies. Gal Gadot and Brie Larson portray warm, righteous characters who strive for good. Their motivations are noble, to save the world with love and end wars. While I adored these superheroines, I still craved female characters who didn't need to be softened by an innate sense of goodness. I wanted those wholly in touch with their feelings - even the ugliest ones.
Enter Birds of Prey. The women in this movie are far from virtuous. In fact, they're selfish, violent, and deceptive. But the film underlines how terrible men have wronged them and how these wrongs have hardened them. There's Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), who's pissed for reasons that go beyond losing her BEC sandwich. After leaving a toxic relationship with the Joker, she faces the Black Mask (Ewan McGregor), who holds her hostage and threatens to murder her. Detective Renee Montoya (Rosie Perez) bites her tongue as her male colleagues undermine her, even though she's built a case against the Black Mask. Then there's Black Canary, who gets fed up with her boss' misogyny and turns on him. The angriest of them all is the Huntress (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), who very much has rage problems and devotes herself to a vendetta against her family's killers.
The birds unleash their anger with visceral violence. But their fits of rage aren't self-indulgent girl power moments. They feel earned, actually, given the thoughtful exposition of these characters. The slams, punches, and shots don't so much glorify bloodlust as they release pent up frustrations. The film's ultimate catharsis culminates in Black Canary's primal scream, one that would blow Meryl Streep's Big Little Lies character out of the water in a hot second.
Obviously, acting on anger isn't the healthiest coping mechanism. In the portrayal of rage also lies the danger of women being framed as volatile. But revealing the extent of women's anger gives them the space to be emotionally complex. It forces us to think about the societal factors that trigger rage. Wonder Woman shows women that they can be anything they want to be. Birds of Prey, alternatively, conveys the message that women can possess a full range of emotions, especially the not-so-pleasant ones. It dramatically presents the possibility that women don't have to bottle up their anger and let it eat them alive - not that you have to go as far as hunting your enemies with a crossbow.
I Have Bipolar Disorder, and Here's What I Wish More People Understood
Growing up, I was always a rambunctious and energetic child. In my mind, I was creative, extroverted, and unique. To my family and teachers, I was a whole lot; my energy seemed more like hyperactivity, my mood often changed, and I would go through periods of impulsive behavior. When my mom brought it to the attention of a doctor, I was diagnosed with ADHD. I spent most of my adolescence trying different medications to help manage the symptoms.
Then in college, I began struggling with self-harm, and with the help of my parents, I started seeing a therapist regularly. The therapist eventually referred me to a psychiatrist, who officially diagnosed me with bipolar II disorder. Strangely, this came as a relief. I finally understood more about the way my brain works and how to treat my condition. But while medication and therapy were immensely helpful in balancing my brain chemistry, I still struggled with one element of having a severe mental illness: the stigma. There's been a lot of progress made in how we talk about mental illness in society, but I quickly learned that we still have a long way to go. There are a lot of misconceptions about bipolar disorder, specifically, and I've experienced firsthand the way these can paint people's perceptions of a person who's living with it.
In my experience, few people understand that there are actually several conditions that fall under the umbrella of bipolar disorder. People are usually most familiar with bipolar I, which is characterized by major depressive episodes and intermittent periods of mania that can be severe enough to require hospitalization. With bipolar II disorder, I cycle between periods of major depression and shorter, much less severe episodes of hypomania. I've also encountered the misconception that bipolar disorder is interchangeable with schizophrenia, an illness that can distort a person's reality, so much so that they may experience hallucinations or delusions. That distinction is very important.
My hope is that everyone who struggles with bipolar disorder can come to feel the same way: accepted, loved, and supported.
There are so many things that I wish more people understood about my condition. I wish I could dispel with the idea that having bipolar II means that I'm "moody" or "crazy." My brain chemistry is simply different from other people's, and that's OK. I also wish people who understood bipolar disorder wouldn't diminish the impact bipolar II can have on a person's life, as though the diagnosis is in some way less valid than bipolar I. For that matter, I wish more people understood that bipolar disorder looks different for everyone. I have several friends with bipolar I or bipolar II. Some rarely have episodes at all, while others have been hospitalized multiple times, myself included.
For me, the depressive episodes are noticeably deep, and my manic episodes can be concerning and even scary for those who witness them firsthand. Without my medication, there were times I experienced episodes so intense that they threatened my life. Thankfully, with the support and accountability of family and friends, I am healthy and balanced today. My illness is a part of my life, but I refuse to let it control me - and I've become strong enough not to allow these misconceptions to affect me. My hope is that everyone who struggles with bipolar disorder can come to feel the same way: accepted, loved, and supported.
If you feel like you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, the National Alliance on Mental Illness has resources available and a helpline (1-800-950-6264), or text "NAMI" to 741741. You can also email info@nami.org.
I Stopped Waiting For the Time or Motivation to Exercise, and That Changed Everything
I love feeling my heart pound in my chest as I struggle to catch my breath during a hard workout, the shaky, tired legs after a long run and sore muscles from lifting heavy weights . . . but it hasn't always been that way.
Exercise and I have been in a turbulent relationship most of my life. I would go through periods of hitting the treadmill every day and then go weeks or months with dust collecting on my running shoes in the hallway closet. I would make excuses. I would wait until I felt motivated or saw the number on the scale steadily rising. I'd tell myself I would start exercising again next week when my busy schedule eased up a little, but I always struggled to find the time.
Then something changed.
I was diagnosed with a chronic disease. I became a mom and was juggling a career, kids, and a marriage. It was exhausting. I quickly realized that if I was going to not only survive, but thrive in this stage of my life, I was going to have to put in the work (and the sweat). I decided that in order to have energy, I was going to have to create energy by moving my body as often as my busy schedule allowed. I stopped waiting for the motivation to go to the gym and simply decided it was nonnegotiable.
These days, I make time to work out almost every day. This doesn't mean spending hours in the gym.
My goal is to move my body for at least 10 minutes a day. This can translate to a mile jog or a quick HIIT workout. I go for a walk or take a yoga class. I lift weights at least a couple times a week because being strong is the example I want to set for my kids. And I do all this even on days when I don't feel like it. (Which if I'm honest, is more days than not.) I schedule workout classes for first thing in the morning so I don't have time to change my mind, or I lace up my shoes and go for a jog when I'm crunched for time, reminding myself that if I don't get it in now, it won't happen. Don't think, just move.
A funny thing happens when exercise becomes a part of your daily life: it also mends your relationship with your body.
That said, if I miss a couple days or even weeks because someone's sick or I'm feeling rundown, I no longer beat myself up about it. I look at the big picture, which for me is my overall health and energy, and I get back to moving my body when I can. I've found this balance of not waiting for motivation, and yet listening to my body when it needs a break, to be key in getting into a consistent routine. I had to mend my relationship with exercise.
A funny thing happens when exercise becomes a part of your daily life: it also mends your relationship with your body. There may be moments when I don't love the extra dimples on my thighs, but knowing those strong, muscular legs can run a 10K fills me with pride. I support the movement to unapologetically love your body, but I think it's equally as important to respect it, and working out regularly has helped me do just that. Particularly in light of my illness, which carries the high probability that I'll exclusively use a wheelchair one day, every workout has become a celebration of what my body is capable of.
So, every chance I get, I lace up my sneakers and tighten my ponytail. Whether I feel like it or not. I sweat, I curse, and when I'm done, I'm just so grateful for what my body can do.
I Tried a Trainer's Bosu Ball Core Workout, and My Abs and Arms Are Still in Shock
The Bosu ball is one of those fitness tools that, for me, requires a lot of brainpower. Which way faces up? Do I stand on it? Do I lift it? Is there a scenario where I should be throwing it like a Frisbee? (No, there isn't - I'm disappointed, too.)
So when I found a Bosu ball ab workout posted by one of my go-to Instagram trainers, Cindy Yu (@cindyyufitness), I knew I had to give it a shot. Her exercise ball core workout didn't let me down, so my expectations were high for this one. I knew the moves would challenge my balance, but I still wasn't prepared for the first exercise, a bear pose with your hands on the Bosu ball (flat side up) and one foot in the air. I could barely hold the quadruped position, and I was feeling the move everywhere, not just in my abs, but also my glutes (another important muscle group in your core) and arms. The same thing happened with the next three moves: my abs were shaking hard, but so were my arms and shoulders. I collapsed after two rounds with my abs, glutes, and upper body exhausted.
We've broken down the full workout below, and you can watch Cindy's video above to see how to do each move. We've also provided some modifiers, because I sure as heck needed them. This ab workouts is advanced, so go slow, focus on form, and get ready to feel the shake in your abs!
Bosu Ball Ab Workout
Equipment needed: A Bosu ball.
Directions: Do 12 reps on each side, then continue to the next exercise. Complete three to four rounds total.
- Bear pose leg extension crossover
- Tricep plank press (Modification: lift one arm at a time, like an up-down plank)
- Side plank dip (Modification: bend your bottom leg)
- Elbow blast off plank (Modification: lift one arm at a time
I Tried a Trainer's Bosu Ball Core Workout, and My Abs and Arms Are Still in Shock
The Bosu ball is one of those fitness tools that, for me, requires a lot of brainpower. Which way faces up? Do I stand on it? Do I lift it? Is there a scenario where I should be throwing it like a Frisbee? (No, there isn't - I'm disappointed, too.)
So when I found a Bosu ball ab workout posted by one of my go-to Instagram trainers, Cindy Yu (@cindyyufitness), I knew I had to give it a shot. Her exercise ball core workout didn't let me down, so my expectations were high for this one. I knew the moves would challenge my balance, but I still wasn't prepared for the first exercise, a bear pose with your hands on the Bosu ball (flat side up) and one foot in the air. I could barely hold the quadruped position, and I was feeling the move everywhere, not just in my abs, but also my glutes (another important muscle group in your core) and arms. The same thing happened with the next three moves: my abs were shaking hard, but so were my arms and shoulders. I collapsed after two rounds with my abs, glutes, and upper body exhausted.
We've broken down the full workout below, and you can watch Cindy's video above to see how to do each move. We've also provided some modifiers, because I sure as heck needed them. This ab workouts is advanced, so go slow, focus on form, and get ready to feel the shake in your abs!
Bosu Ball Ab Workout
Equipment needed: A Bosu ball.
Directions: Do 12 reps on each side, then continue to the next exercise. Complete three to four rounds total.
- Bear pose leg extension crossover
- Tricep plank press (Modification: lift one arm at a time, like an up-down plank)
- Side plank dip (Modification: bend your bottom leg)
- Elbow blast off plank (Modification: lift one arm at a time
Don't Pack For Your Next Trip Without These 24 Comfy Travel Essentials
Booking a vacation is the fun part, but figuring out what to pack can be overwhelming. To make sure you have everything you need without overpacking or overspending, we shopped at Nordstrom and uncovered over 20 travel essentials you'll want for your next trip. From chic sandals to versatile dresses and comfy pants for the plane, no doubt you'll find plenty of options ahead. Keep scrolling to shop our best finds - you won't regret it.
26 Sexy Bikinis That You Should Definitely Pack For All Your 2020 Vacations
If you're on the hunt for a sultry bikini in 2020, we've got you covered. We scoured the internet and hunted down the hottest picks out there right now, so all you have to do is find your match. From neon pink choices to sexy animal-print picks, it will be hard to not want them all. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites and feel your best.
These Comfortable Springtime Flats Are All on Sale This Weekend, So Get 'Em ASAP
If you need some new Spring shoes but you're not ready for sandals yet, consider a cute pair of flats. They're comfortable, stylish, and versatile. Whether you want a neutral option for work or a whimsical pair to wear on the weekends, we uncovered a plethora of choices.
The best part of all? Everything we have selected is on sale! Discounts make everything so much better. Consider flats an investment piece since you'll wear them so often - trust us.
3 Tasty Tequila Cocktails - And None of Them Are a Margarita
I get it: margaritas are delicious, especially when they're made right. However, after overindulging in my college years - legal drinking age in the DR, where I'm from and went to college, is 18 - I found myself a little averse to them. Margaritas were the first cocktail my mom taught me how to make, and eventually I shared with all my friends when we got together.
It got to the point where people would demand that I make my "famous margaritas" at any gathering. My love for margaritas carried through my move to NYC to the point where, not too long ago, I reconnected with one of the first guys I went out with after I moved here, and he said "are you still drinking margaritas?" True story. But the reality is, margaritas and I ended up distancing ourselves. I just got a little tired of them - although I'd still order one if a particular flavor catches my eye.
However, I do enjoy tequila, and in my search for alternative cocktails that mix both the spirit I love and different flavors, I came across these recipes thanks to Cazadores. Keep scrolling and try one out for yourself this weekend!
10 Shows That Helped Me Come Into My Own Blackness
There was a time in my life where I had no idea what it meant to be Black. Granted, most six-year olds don't have a concrete understanding of their race and culture and what it means in a larger context, but when I moved to a small town in Westchester, NY, from Ghana in West Africa, I was completely out of the loop. My skin was obviously brown so people assumed I was familiar with all the cultural staples that Black-Americans popularly identify with. As I went through my pre-teen and oh-so-complicated teen years, it became harder for me to navigate the cultural differences that I had grown up with, and the ones I was now expected to know. For a while, I didn't feel like I fit in well anywhere.
My town was fairly diverse, so to hang out with the white kids raised eyebrows from other kids of color in school. However, I wasn't hip to the music, styles and slang of the Black and Hispanic kids, leaving me in an awkward in-between position. So, I looked to TV.
The late '90s and early 2000s were primetime for Black sitcoms. Everyday after school, after finishing my homework, I would turn on our TV and immerse myself in the comedy, drama, and heartfelt plots of these shows. Through them, I partially learned what it means to be Black in America. More importantly, I saw myself in these characters in a way that gave me confidence to be Black in whichever way felt most natural to me.
Eventually I found my place, by way of just being myself. I made a diverse group of friends who represented a variety of races, backgrounds and experiences. Along the way, these stories told on TV gave me a bit of guidance that helped me fully come into my Blackness with confidence and pride.
11 Films to Watch If You Loved Parasite - Ram-Don as a Movie Snack Optional
Part dark comedy and part psychological thriller, Bong Joon-ho's Parasite deliciously unravels how the poor but resourceful Kim family scam their way into gainful employment at the luxurious Park residence. Besides richly illustrating the plights of the have-nots, the film is also fun as hell and hits all the right emotional beats. But all great things must come to an end, so if you're left hanging after those two wondrous hours of Parasite, fret not. We've personally selected films worth checking out if you're an official Bong acolyte (and no, they're not all scammer documentaries). Get cozy in your secret basement, and make a bowl of ram-don noodles - here are the best movies to watch after Parasite.
11 Black Romances From TV and Movies That Taught Me How to Love
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and for Black audiences, seeing the beauty of our lives and stories represented on screen serves as a reminder that Black is beautiful. We all love to watch stories of courage, strength, family, and, most importantly, love, but these stories hit a little different when the subjects are dripping with melanin.
Throughout the years, we've been blessed by creators who have showcased Black love on the big and small screens. Although not an easy undertaking, they have successfully displayed the complexities that make Black love so wonderful and left a lasting impression on audiences of different backgrounds. These film and television show romances illustrate how raw, complicated, and outwardly passionate Black love can be. Here is a look at 11 memorable Black romances that taught me how to love.
Don't Pack For Your Next Trip Without These 24 Comfy Travel Essentials
Booking a vacation is the fun part, but figuring out what to pack can be overwhelming. To make sure you have everything you need without overpacking or overspending, we shopped at Nordstrom and uncovered over 20 travel essentials you'll want for your next trip. From chic sandals to versatile dresses and comfy pants for the plane, no doubt you'll find plenty of options ahead. Keep scrolling to shop our best finds - you won't regret it.
Don't Pack For Your Next Trip Without These 24 Comfy Travel Essentials
Booking a vacation is the fun part, but figuring out what to pack can be overwhelming. To make sure you have everything you need without overpacking or overspending, we shopped at Nordstrom and uncovered over 20 travel essentials you'll want for your next trip. From chic sandals to versatile dresses and comfy pants for the plane, no doubt you'll find plenty of options ahead. Keep scrolling to shop our best finds - you won't regret it.
Don't Pack For Your Next Trip Without These 24 Comfy Travel Essentials
Booking a vacation is the fun part, but figuring out what to pack can be overwhelming. To make sure you have everything you need without overpacking or overspending, we shopped at Nordstrom and uncovered over 20 travel essentials you'll want for your next trip. From chic sandals to versatile dresses and comfy pants for the plane, no doubt you'll find plenty of options ahead. Keep scrolling to shop our best finds - you won't regret it.
26 Sexy Bikinis That You Should Definitely Pack For All Your 2020 Vacations
If you're on the hunt for a sultry bikini in 2020, we've got you covered. We scoured the internet and hunted down the hottest picks out there right now, so all you have to do is find your match. From neon pink choices to sexy animal-print picks, it will be hard to not want them all. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites and feel your best.
These Comfortable Springtime Flats Are All on Sale This Weekend, So Get 'Em ASAP
If you need some new Spring shoes but you're not ready for sandals yet, consider a cute pair of flats. They're comfortable, stylish, and versatile. Whether you want a neutral option for work or a whimsical pair to wear on the weekends, we uncovered a plethora of choices.
The best part of all? Everything we have selected is on sale! Discounts make everything so much better. Consider flats an investment piece since you'll wear them so often - trust us.
vendredi 28 février 2020
RuPaul's Drag Race: Meet the Fabulous Queens Competing to Be America's Next Drag Superstar
Heading into season 12, RuPaul's Drag Race is as colorful and creative as ever, in large part due to the larger-than-life personalities that come on the show to compete for the ultimate drag title. This season, 13 new drag queens are taking the stage in hopes of earning the coveted title of "America's next drag superstar." Among the new batch of contestants are performers from all over the country - and even outside the country! They've all established themselves as some of the best drag artists in the world, and we can't wait to see what they bring in the new season of Drag Race. Ahead, learn a little bit more about each of this season's competitors before the new season premieres on Feb. 28!
Halsey Reveals She Met Evan Peters's Friends Dressed as Marilyn Manson in Hot Ones Video
Things got pretty spicy for Halsey during First We Feast's Hot Ones episode on Thursday. The 25-year-old singer put her tastebuds to the test when she ate her way through ten chicken wings, each one hotter than the last. While chowing down on wings, Halsey chatted with host Sean Evans about a handful of topics, including her friendship with John Mayer, her thoughts on boy bands, and most importantly, her relationship with Evan Peters. Even though Halsey is pretty private when it comes to her love life, she did reveal that the first time she met Evan's friends was this past Halloween when she was dressed up as Marilyn Manson.
"I met all of his friends for the first time dressed like that. He was a good sport about it. He was like, 'This is my girlfriend!' Like, he was, like, super proud," she said. "But I also forgot I looked like that." Halsey and Evan first sparked dating rumors in September 2019 when they were spotted on a date at Six Flags Magic Mountain, and they've been going strong ever since. See what else Halsey had to say in the video above.
Go All-Out With a Hardcore, Full-Body Workout Set to Justin Bieber's "Intentions"
If there's one thing we love more than pop song workout playlists, it's a workout full-on choreographed to a pop song, down to each beat. Because honestly, mountain climbers alone are . . . not fun (to put it lightly), but mountain climbers set to Justin Bieber's newest hit? OK, you have our attention.
Today it's exercise physiologist Amanda Bisk, a certified yoga instructor and former Australian pole vaulter, who's giving us a fiery full-body workout set to "Intentions" by Justin Bieber featuring Quavo. There are plenty of squats, standing crunches, and push-ups to work your muscles, but never fear: you'll also get in some cardio in with jump outs and scissor jumps. Amanda included a full list of exercises in the video description, but just trust us when we say you'll be working everything in this three-and-a-half-minute sweat sesh. Hit play on the video above to check it out, and if you want to sweat even more afterwards, try out Amanda's ab workout set to "Circles" by Post Malone. (And if you're only here for Justin, here's a "Yummy" ab workout we found just for you.)
25 DIY Harry Potter Gifts You Can Make For Your Favorite Wizards and Witches
Muggles, squibs, and wizards waiting for your Hogwarts acceptance letters, get ready to rejoice! You may not be able to cast a spell and have presents for every birthday, holiday, and party perfectly planned out, but these magical Harry Potter-inspired DIY gifts are about to make that so much easier. With creative DIY ideas, these are cheap, thoughtful, and Potter-approved. Find something for every Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and even Slytherin on your gift list (and maybe keep something for yourself, too!). These would also make for fun craft party activities - entertainment and favors all in one! Take a look at the best DIY gift ideas for all Harry Potter-lovers out there, and let the magic begin.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
25 DIY Harry Potter Gifts You Can Make For Your Favorite Wizards and Witches
Muggles, squibs, and wizards waiting for your Hogwarts acceptance letters, get ready to rejoice! You may not be able to cast a spell and have presents for every birthday, holiday, and party perfectly planned out, but these magical Harry Potter-inspired DIY gifts are about to make that so much easier. With creative DIY ideas, these are cheap, thoughtful, and Potter-approved. Find something for every Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and even Slytherin on your gift list (and maybe keep something for yourself, too!). These would also make for fun craft party activities - entertainment and favors all in one! Take a look at the best DIY gift ideas for all Harry Potter-lovers out there, and let the magic begin.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
I'm a Packing Pro, and These Are the 22 Things I Always Take on a Weekend Trip
I pretty much live by the motto, "less is more", especially when it comes to packing. I learned my lesson far long ago by lugging around stuff I never ended up using on vacations. Now I like to consider myself a packing expert, because I can go on any length trip with a minimal amount of stuff. The key to taking the right items is all about versatility and usability. Making the most of space with outfits you can mix and match different ways in addition to cool travel accessories that'll always come in handy.
If you're headed on a short weekend trip soon and not sure where to start packing, not to worry. Ahead, I shared a list of the 22 things I always take no matter what. Ranging from a dress you can wear a few different ways to comfy sneakers and bestselling cosmetic bag, no doubt you'll want to get these for your next excursion. Keep reading to shop them all and start packing like a pro.
Articles
