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.
jeudi 30 avril 2020
The Hadid Sisters Did a Farm Photoshoot, and We're Obsessed With Gigi's Cowgirl Boots
Like the rest of the world, Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid are following social distancing protocols, but that doesn't mean they can't show off their fashionable staying home outfits. As part of Vogue's Postcards From Home series in the magazine's June/July issue, Gigi and Bella shared a few photos of themselves on their family farm in Pennsylvania, and their outfits definitely stand out against the serene background.
"We are sending love and strength to everyone, especially those who are suffering and the people on the frontlines."
Gigi, who is reportedly pregnant with her first child, wore a maroon and navy varsity jacket layered over a white denim jacket and a pair of loose-fitting work jeans. She paired the look with a chunky oversized beanie, a belt, and matching cowgirl boots. Bella opted for tan cargo pants stuffed into forest green rain boots and paired with an unbuttoned white dress shirt. Rather than completing their outfits with traditional runway accessories, the sisters turned water buckets into oversized handbags and even posed with a live cow. The tractor in the background adds an extra rustic touch.
"Being isolated has been hard for me," Bella said. "Recently, I made a conscious effort to wake up in the morning and say my mantras to get myself into a happier state of mind." Bella went on to say that she has also started tie-dying her Chrome Hearts t-shirts, which she plans to sell in hopes of donating the proceeds to single mothers across America who are struggling right now. "We are sending love and strength to everyone, especially those who are suffering and the people on the frontlines; the doctors risking their lives every day, and the paramedics and cops and people who work in grocery stores," Gigi added.
This Is How Much Body Fat and Weight You Can Safely Lose in a Month, According to Experts
There's no one-size-fits-all method to losing weight or lowering your body fat percentage. The amount of body fat and weight you can lose in a given month will vary based on your current weight, diet, and activity level, to name a few variables that impact weight loss. To find out how much body fat and weight you can safely and realistically expect to lose in a month, POPSUGAR reached out to the experts.
How Much Body Fat You Can Expect to Lose
"Under the assumption that nutrition is 100 percent during this process, it depends on the weight and body fat of each woman," said Stephen Cheuk, certificate IV Australian Institute of Personal Trainers certified trainer and founder of S10 Training in New York City. He explained that a woman who is already relatively lean (18 to 28 percent body fat) and strength trains can lose anywhere from 0.5 to 0.8 body fat in a single week. "If a woman is on the heavier side in weight and has a higher body fat percentage (over 28 percent), she could lose a minimum of one percent body fat a week," Cheuk said.
How Much Weight You Can Expect to Lose
Pratik Patel, MS, RD, CSSD, CSCS, New York Giants director of performance nutrition and assistant strength and conditioning coach, told POPSUGAR, "If you can steadily lose anywhere from 1/2 pound to one to two pounds a week, you know you can control it." According to Patel, a realistic and healthy way to achieve this would be to implement a calorie deficit.
One pound comes from about 3,500 calories, and if you eat 500 fewer calories than you burn from working out and other physical activity every day for a week, you'll be down one pound. By increasing this deficit to 750 calories a day for one week, you'll have lost one and a half pounds. Eating 1,000 fewer calories than what you burn with exercise will put you at a two-pound loss in a single week. This means that in a month you could lose anywhere from four to eight pounds. Patel explained that losing no more than two pounds a week will ensure that you're burning fat instead of breaking down your muscle tissue.
Emmie Satrazemis, RD, CSSD, nutrition director at Trifecta, said, "Weight loss is strongly determined by one's age, starting body weight, their fitness levels, current body composition, and overall health." According to Satrazemis, people who have more weight to lose and who currently consume a high calorie diet may lose more weight and quicker because "it is easier to cut high amounts of calories from a diet that is high in calories to begin with."
For sustainable weight loss, she recommends decreasing one's caloric intake by 15 percent and absolutely no more than 20 percent a day. She explained that going from eating 2,000 calories to 1,700 calories a day will result in a little over half of a pound of weight loss per week. "For some, losing one to two pounds a week is not realistic, while others may lose even more than that," she said. Emmie explained that consistent exercise can help you lose more weight but it may also increase your appetite. Because of this, she advises adjusting your caloric intake to accommodate an increased appetite.
Remember, before making any changes to your diet, please consult your doctor.
The Hadid Sisters Did a Farm Photoshoot, and We're Obsessed With Gigi's Cowgirl Boots
Like the rest of the world, Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid are following social distancing protocols, but that doesn't mean they can't show off their fashionable staying home outfits. As part of Vogue's Postcards From Home series in the magazine's June/July issue, Gigi and Bella shared a few photos of themselves on their family farm in Pennsylvania, and their outfits definitely stand out against the serene background.
"We are sending love and strength to everyone, especially those who are suffering and the people on the frontlines."
Gigi, who is reportedly pregnant with her first child, wore a maroon and navy varsity jacket layered over a white denim jacket and a pair of loose-fitting work jeans. She paired the look with a chunky oversized beanie, a belt, and matching cowgirl boots. Bella opted for tan cargo pants stuffed into forest green rain boots and paired with an unbuttoned white dress shirt. Rather than completing their outfits with traditional runway accessories, the sisters turned water buckets into oversized handbags and even posed with a live cow. The tractor in the background adds an extra rustic touch.
"Being isolated has been hard for me," Bella said. "Recently, I made a conscious effort to wake up in the morning and say my mantras to get myself into a happier state of mind." Bella went on to say that she has also started tie-dying her Chrome Hearts t-shirts, which she plans to sell in hopes of donating the proceeds to single mothers across America who are struggling right now. "We are sending love and strength to everyone, especially those who are suffering and the people on the frontlines; the doctors risking their lives every day, and the paramedics and cops and people who work in grocery stores," Gigi added.
This Is How Much Body Fat and Weight You Can Safely Lose in a Month, According to Experts
There's no one-size-fits-all method to losing weight or lowering your body fat percentage. The amount of body fat and weight you can lose in a given month will vary based on your current weight, diet, and activity level, to name a few variables that impact weight loss. To find out how much body fat and weight you can safely and realistically expect to lose in a month, POPSUGAR reached out to the experts.
How Much Body Fat You Can Expect to Lose
"Under the assumption that nutrition is 100 percent during this process, it depends on the weight and body fat of each woman," said Stephen Cheuk, certificate IV Australian Institute of Personal Trainers certified trainer and founder of S10 Training in New York City. He explained that a woman who is already relatively lean (18 to 28 percent body fat) and strength trains can lose anywhere from 0.5 to 0.8 body fat in a single week. "If a woman is on the heavier side in weight and has a higher body fat percentage (over 28 percent), she could lose a minimum of one percent body fat a week," Cheuk said.
How Much Weight You Can Expect to Lose
Pratik Patel, MS, RD, CSSD, CSCS, New York Giants director of performance nutrition and assistant strength and conditioning coach, told POPSUGAR, "If you can steadily lose anywhere from 1/2 pound to one to two pounds a week, you know you can control it." According to Patel, a realistic and healthy way to achieve this would be to implement a calorie deficit.
One pound comes from about 3,500 calories, and if you eat 500 fewer calories than you burn from working out and other physical activity every day for a week, you'll be down one pound. By increasing this deficit to 750 calories a day for one week, you'll have lost one and a half pounds. Eating 1,000 fewer calories than what you burn with exercise will put you at a two-pound loss in a single week. This means that in a month you could lose anywhere from four to eight pounds. Patel explained that losing no more than two pounds a week will ensure that you're burning fat instead of breaking down your muscle tissue.
Emmie Satrazemis, RD, CSSD, nutrition director at Trifecta, said, "Weight loss is strongly determined by one's age, starting body weight, their fitness levels, current body composition, and overall health." According to Satrazemis, people who have more weight to lose and who currently consume a high calorie diet may lose more weight and quicker because "it is easier to cut high amounts of calories from a diet that is high in calories to begin with."
For sustainable weight loss, she recommends decreasing one's caloric intake by 15 percent and absolutely no more than 20 percent a day. She explained that going from eating 2,000 calories to 1,700 calories a day will result in a little over half of a pound of weight loss per week. "For some, losing one to two pounds a week is not realistic, while others may lose even more than that," she said. Emmie explained that consistent exercise can help you lose more weight but it may also increase your appetite. Because of this, she advises adjusting your caloric intake to accommodate an increased appetite.
Remember, before making any changes to your diet, please consult your doctor.
The No. 1 Thing I'm Shopping For Right Now Is Pajama Short Sets
I'm a shopping editor, and I'm here to discuss my love for pajamas. Specifically, a pajama set. I'm a believer in looking put together, and I think pajama sets are so fun and cute. It's to the point where I don't like sleeping in anything else. I have a bunch of cute long sleeved options, but frankly, it's so hot right now that I need short sets, so I've been shopping for pairs that will make me smile and feel a little bit fashionable, even when I'm just lounging in bed. These 16 styles are my top picks, and I have a feeling you'll love them too.
From classic cotton pjs to fun rainbow options and even an avocado pj set, you can't go wrong with any of these cute picks. Plus, there's even a washable silk set that'll make you feel oh so fancy. Just keep reading to shop!
The No. 1 Thing I'm Shopping For Right Now Is Pajama Short Sets
I'm a shopping editor, and I'm here to discuss my love for pajamas. Specifically, a pajama set. I'm a believer in looking put together, and I think pajama sets are so fun and cute. It's to the point where I don't like sleeping in anything else. I have a bunch of cute long sleeved options, but frankly, it's so hot right now that I need short sets, so I've been shopping for pairs that will make me smile and feel a little bit fashionable, even when I'm just lounging in bed. These 16 styles are my top picks, and I have a feeling you'll love them too.
From classic cotton pjs to fun rainbow options and even an avocado pj set, you can't go wrong with any of these cute picks. Plus, there's even a washable silk set that'll make you feel oh so fancy. Just keep reading to shop!
New to Fitness, and Want a Stronger Core? Check Out These Beginner Ab Workout Videos
Ever experience a deep belly laugh, put away groceries, or sit up straight when someone told you to pay more attention? We're guessing you have - and you're using your abs for all of that. They stabilize your posture, play a role in daily functions, and help you walk, twist, etc. That's why working on your core is important: it's not just for looks.
You can learn how to engage your core by pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Here are core-activating exercises to practice. For workouts that are on the easier side and by definition low-impact, check out the videos ahead.
They're all relatively short, require zero equipment, and are made for people just starting out at, or getting back to, a beginner level. One is also a standing ab routine, and we've included a gentle yoga flow for the abdominal wall as well. Find an open space and a mat if need be, and get to work! (Plus, when you feel ready, try these follow-along plank challenges.)
Throw It Back With the Best Early-2000s Movies on Netflix - Watch Them Tonight!
We know it's 2020, but these early-2000s movies on Netflix are some of the best flicks you can stream right now. Bring on the nostalgia when you watch these high-school comedies, action movies, family-friendly movies, and even sexy romances that will take you back to the days of TRL and flip phones. These films from the aughts (aka the first decade of the 2000s) are all gems in one way or another - either they were critical successes, cult movies that have turned into classics, or movies so bad, they're actually good. Whatever the case, we can assure you that you'll definitely want to revisit your favorites. And if you haven't seen some of the hits on this list, what are you possibly waiting for?
Grab the popcorn and get ready for a wild night in, because these early-2000s Netflix movies are about to take you for a ride back in time.
- With Haley Lyndes, Shannon Vestal Robson, Corinne Sullivan
Who Is Max Ehrich? Demi Lovato's New Beau Also Has a Disney Channel Past
Demi Lovato and Max Ehrich could easily win the award for Best Celeb Couple of 2020, and yes, it's only April. Sure, they have yet to publicly confirm their relationship - they were first rumored to be dating last month - but their social media back-and-forth has already cemented them as a solid ship. All aboard!
Perhaps their most adorable moment so far came when Max, 28, was singing and playing the piano on Instagram live - and Demi, 27, came in carrying a blanket, unaware that he was broadcasting to fans.
"I'm on live! I'm on live!" he frantically whispered to the star. They both cracked up and Demi quickly covered her face with the sheet.
Plus, Sam Smith - who recently collaborated with Demi on their new track, "I'm Ready" - revealed that Demi and Max "seem so sweet," they told Andy Cohen. "She seems happy at the moment which is the most important thing."
Of course, that is the most important thing. And fans are clamoring for all the details about Max, needing to know, "Who is this person who makes Demi smile so much?" The answer to that question lies right here in this photo gallery. Keep scrolling to get the full scoop on Max Ehrich!
Throw It Back With the Best Early-2000s Movies on Netflix - Watch Them Tonight!
We know it's 2020, but these early-2000s movies on Netflix are some of the best flicks you can stream right now. Bring on the nostalgia when you watch these high-school comedies, action movies, family-friendly movies, and even sexy romances that will take you back to the days of TRL and flip phones. These films from the aughts (aka the first decade of the 2000s) are all gems in one way or another - either they were critical successes, cult movies that have turned into classics, or movies so bad, they're actually good. Whatever the case, we can assure you that you'll definitely want to revisit your favorites. And if you haven't seen some of the hits on this list, what are you possibly waiting for?
Grab the popcorn and get ready for a wild night in, because these early-2000s Netflix movies are about to take you for a ride back in time.
- With Haley Lyndes, Shannon Vestal Robson, Corinne Sullivan
Who Is Max Ehrich? Demi Lovato's New Beau Also Has a Disney Channel Past
Demi Lovato and Max Ehrich could easily win the award for Best Celeb Couple of 2020, and yes, it's only April. Sure, they have yet to publicly confirm their relationship - they were first rumored to be dating last month - but their social media back-and-forth has already cemented them as a solid ship. All aboard!
Perhaps their most adorable moment so far came when Max, 28, was singing and playing the piano on Instagram live - and Demi, 27, came in carrying a blanket, unaware that he was broadcasting to fans.
"I'm on live! I'm on live!" he frantically whispered to the star. They both cracked up and Demi quickly covered her face with the sheet.
Plus, Sam Smith - who recently collaborated with Demi on their new track, "I'm Ready" - revealed that Demi and Max "seem so sweet," they told Andy Cohen. "She seems happy at the moment which is the most important thing."
Of course, that is the most important thing. And fans are clamoring for all the details about Max, needing to know, "Who is this person who makes Demi smile so much?" The answer to that question lies right here in this photo gallery. Keep scrolling to get the full scoop on Max Ehrich!
New to Fitness, and Want a Stronger Core? Check Out These Beginner Ab Workout Videos
Ever experience a deep belly laugh, put away groceries, or sit up straight when someone told you to pay more attention? We're guessing you have - and you're using your abs for all of that. They stabilize your posture, play a role in daily functions, and help you walk, twist, etc. That's why working on your core is important: it's not just for looks.
You can learn how to engage your core by pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Here are core-activating exercises to practice. For workouts that are on the easier side and by definition low-impact, check out the videos ahead.
They're all relatively short, require zero equipment, and are made for people just starting out at, or getting back to, a beginner level. One is also a standing ab routine, and we've included a gentle yoga flow for the abdominal wall as well. Find an open space and a mat if need be, and get to work! (Plus, when you feel ready, try these follow-along plank challenges.)
mercredi 29 avril 2020
17 Stunning Area Rugs That Will Instantly Bring Color Into Your Home
My apartment is covered in brown carpets and walls, so I'm on a mission to brighten up my space. One major home decor item I want to help that is a new area rug. Rather than getting something neutral that will just blend right in, I'm looking to invest in a colorful piece. Large rugs can often cost a fortune, but thanks to the internet it's easy to shop affordable, stylish, and high-quality options.
If you're also looking to spruce up your space with a fresh rug, then you're in luck. I scoured several of my favorite home shopping sites for the best of the best picks out there right now, so all you have to do is find your match. I looked to places like Amazon, Wayfair, and Urban Outfitters, because all its selections blew me away. Ahead, you'll find my 17 favorite colorful picks that will instantly transform any room. Take a look.
30+ Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Recipes That Will Make Dinner Seriously Exciting
Let's face it: boneless, skinless chicken breasts aren't exactly the definition of exciting. Prone to drying out, the lean dinner staple can also be pretty bland if underseasoned and overcooked. And yet they're a staple for good reason: they're convenient, reasonably economical, and can even be delicious (really!) when treated right. Keep reading for plenty of dinner ideas ranging from a Tex-Mex pasta casserole to lemony-bright chicken piccata to a memorable chicken, kale, and avocado salad. You're bound to find a new favorite to add to your rotation - and then can change it up again!
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
15 Stunning and Affordable Couches You Can Buy at Wayfair
It's no secret that picking out a new sofa can be a daunting task. After moving into my new apartment last year, I spent endless hours online trying to find my perfect match. I browsed tons of retailers, and one that always blew me away was Wayfair. The retailer's site carries thousands of impressive pieces at seriously affordable prices. So, if you're feeling like your old sofa could use an upgrade, I'm here to help.
Ahead, I curated a list of 15 stylish and comfy couches that caught my eye along my journey and won't break the break. Whether you're looking for one that converts into a bed or something you'll want to lounge on all day long, you'll find exactly what you need here. Keep reading to shop these top picks and get the choice of your dreams today.
These Fresh Scented Spring Candles Make the Perfect Mother's Day Gift
In case you need an excuse to buy a scented candle, here's one: Mother's Day! It's that time of the year to make Mom feel special, and what better gift to give her than a candle that smells as good as spring? Think: fresh flowers, freshly cut grass, fruity aromas, and clean cotton - who couldn't love the smell of that? If Mom's already prepping her garden, making fruity cocktails, and spring cleaning her home like crazy, she's more than ready to bring the outdoors in. Give her a candle that resembles springtime with the 30 options ahead, and don't be afraid to pick one up for yourself while you're at it.
- Additional reporting by Annie Gabillet
A Golden Girls Puzzle Exists, So Um, I Know What I'm Doing This Weekend
It seems like everyone we know is doing a puzzle right now, and we kind of get why. They're a fun way to pass the time that doesn't involve leaving the house, and they're a great activity to do solo or with your roommates. Plus, they're an active option; they require you to use your brain and figure out how these pieces could fit together. There are puzzles for every personality, but when we saw this The Golden Girls: 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle ($15), we know it was the one for us.
Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia would definitely approve of this fun puzzle. When you complete it, you'll see dozens of their faces, and is there anything better than that? This puzzle is fun, adorable, and in stock, so now's the time to shop!
Stress, Trauma, and Sleep Changes: Here's What Is Causing Your Weird Dreams Right Now
Image Source: Getty / Basak Gurbuz Derman
Search Twitter and you'll come across the #pandemicdreams hashtag - which is exactly what it sounds like. Or, ask around: people are reporting strange, vivid (or both strange and vivid) dreams during this novel coronavirus pandemic, whether they're about the actual virus or not.
A fellow POPSUGAR editor told me that she rarely ever remembers her dreams. Ever since the end of February, though, she's been having (and remembering) the "weirdest" dreams. One, for example, involved her moving into wizard school with her current roommate and a best friend from college. She transported to and from her boyfriend's dorm using a map. Oh, and her boyfriend in this dream was Chilling Adventures of Sabrina star Gavin Leatherwood (aka, Nicholas Scratch).
In contrast, someone from my alma mater told me that she's had dreams - nightmares, really - where her lungs filled with fluid and she couldn't breathe. In these instances, she was dreaming about having COVID-19 specifically. They were so realistic that her partner, who was sleeping beside her, said he woke up while she was in the middle of one such dream and thought she was choking.
Deirdre Barrett, PhD, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School, started collecting data about people's dreams in past weeks using a public survey. She told VICE that answers included loved ones getting sick or "hordes of flying bugs." (We don't know about you, but we'd much rather dream about Leatherwood than hordes of flying bugs.)
Why Do We Dream in the First Place?
Scientists aren't exactly sure why we dream, but there are a few theories that involve memory processing and the resetting of emotions. One early theory from Francis Crick, co-discoverer of DNA who later researched sleep, stated that dreams were a way to get rid of unneeded information. According to Rafael Pelayo, MD, sleep specialist at Stanford Sleep Medicine Center, while Crick would discourage analyzing your own dreams, psychoanalysts would disagree.
"Dreams are essentially memory consolidation and processing, but it's not straightforward," Joshua Tal, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist who works with patients experiencing sleep disorders like insomnia, told POPSUGAR. "So you might have something that reminds you of a feeling that you had, or you might have three people represented as one person, or it's kind of all over the place."
Dr. Pelayo noted, "There is this idea that in REM sleep we're transferring information from the hippocampus to the other parts of the brain, and the brain is resetting itself for learning the next day." Our thinking in REM sleep is less logical - the part of our brain that deals with logic, Dr. Pelayo told POPSUGAR, is less active (hence, the weirdness of our remembered dreams). Our dreams are more vivid during REM sleep, and Dr. Pelayo referenced early research from a leading sleep doctor, Bill Dement, which stated that if you woke someone out of REM, 80 percent of the time they reported a dream. Plus, the longer they'd been asleep, the more likely they were to remember.
Why Are People Having Weird Dreams Lately?
Explanation 1: Change in Sleep Patterns
Disruption of sleep may play a factor. According to data collected from 1,014 adults across the US by Sleep Standards, 48 percent of Americans stated that feeling anxious during the coronavirus pandemic was the main reason they were having trouble falling asleep, and 58 percent said they've lost at least one hour of sleep nightly compared to before the outbreak. Waking up during the night due to stress or, say, other causes such as alcohol - since people are reportedly drinking more - might result in waking up during a REM period and therefore remembering a dream. As Dr. Pelayo said, "Anything that makes your sleep choppy is also going to make you aware of your dreams more."
Another theory, as stated by the experts POPSUGAR spoke to, is that people are experiencing REM rebound. Katherine Sharkey, MD, PhD, medical director of the Brown Medicine Sleep Center, said that, on average, REM makes up about 25 percent of your nightly sleep (Dr. Pelayo agreed, citing the percentage range to be 20 to 25). The end of the night is made up of more REM sleep - REM sleep dominates the last third - and if you're waking up to go to work in the morning, you're cutting off that stage. This makes you REM deprived, Dr. Pelayo explained. When you start catching up on sleep, which is what some people are doing during this quarantine, there's an influx of REM, or REM rebound.
Quick fun fact: Dr. Tal said that certain substances are actually REM suppressants. Benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and marijuana, for example, can suppress this stage of sleep and therefore lead to REM rebound later on.
What's more, data collected by FitBit and published on April 2 suggests that people across the US are going to bed later but getting more sleep - aka, getting up later. That could be explained from the lack of commuting during this time. Since more REM happens the longer you sleep, people are waking up at a time where the content of a dream is getting transferred into longterm memory and can be remembered, according to Dr. Sharkey. (Note: for the most part, data also showed an improvement in quality of sleep and, according to FitBit, "for those whose quality of sleep has improved, they have been spending more time in deep and REM sleep.")
Explanation 2: Anxiety or Stress Due to Novel Coronavirus
Stress could very well be a factor, the experts we spoke to said. "When we're stressed out, we try to make sense of it, especially when things are so insane and out of the ordinary," Dr. Tal said. This could come about when you're asleep. He explained that people deal with something they're stressed about by exhibiting denial or becoming even more anxious about it as a means of coping. "Doing any of these things essentially means that you're avoiding processing the issue," he said. "You're avoiding talking through its effect. What ends up happening is you then start to see that if it's not processed in the daytime, it'll come out at nighttime."
Stress could also be causing the change in sleep schedule we discussed earlier. "We know that when you're under stress, you are more likely to have arousal from sleep across the board," Dr. Sharkey said. "And we know that having arousals around REM makes it more likely for you to remember what you've dreamed. Is somebody more likely to report that they're having a super intense dream under circumstances where they're feeling more stressed and emotional? Probably."
Dr. Sharkey referenced early morning awakenings, a concept associated with depression and anxiety. It's what it sounds like: people wake up early in the morning and can't go back to sleep. "Early morning awakenings can be common in stressful situations or in times where mood is not good, whether it's anxiety or depression," she explained. This interferes with your sleep and creates an opportunity to remember dreams if you wake up during REM - or, due to a lack of REM, can result in REM rebound the next night.
Image Source: Getty / Nuca Lomadze / EyeEm
Explanation 3: Trauma
In the study, A Systematic Change in Dreams After 9/11/01, 44 people in the US who were already regularly writing down their dreams, provided the last 10 before 9/11 and the first 10 after 9/11. It was found that those after were more intense. This was measured by an increase in central image intensity, which the study defined as "an image that stands out by virtue of being especially powerful, vivid, bizarre, or detailed." Dreams of the actual incidents were not recorded, though there was a slight increase in dreams where people were attacked by someone or something frightening. None of the participants had close family members who died on 9/11 and none lived in Manhattan.
A similar study conducted by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center showed that, after 9/11, college students who recorded their dreams were twice as likely to have negative ones, and the more they watched news about the tragedy, the more of a chance they'd dream about the attacks. (Question for you: How often are you watching TV about the novel coronavirus pandemic?)
Dr. Barrett, that Harvard Medical School psychologist from earlier, told The New York Times that, as it pertains to novel coronavirus, "it's a stretch to say we're all being traumatized in the sense that psychology means." However, she does say that people on the frontlines could very well be experiencing traumatic events that lead to more realistic dreams.
Dr. Tal agreed and further explained to POPSUGAR, "When you have trauma, when you have people dying and you are there witnessing it or even supporting another worker who's witnessing and experiencing it, your mind sometimes cannot make sense of it, so it comes out in dreams and nightmares. . . . We may see that a lot of these people on the frontlines are going to have higher levels of nightmares and traumatic dreams that have to do with coronavirus or have to do with similar themes."
It's important to note that not everyone exhibits a PTSD response from trauma. In fact, only about eight percent of the US population will experience PTSD. Having nightmares doesn't mean that you have full-blown PTSD - nightmares are just one symptom of PTSD, while PTSD is a cluster of symptoms such as re-experience through a dream or flashbacks, hyperarousal, and avoidance. Also classified in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is nightmare disorder, repeated dreams that typically involve avoiding threats to survival. There are treatments for both, Dr. Tal said - image rehearsal therapy for chronic nightmares and cognitive behavioral therapy for full-blown PTSD - but nightmares during this pandemic doesn't mean you have either.
Interpreting Dreams During This Time: Is It a Good Idea?
"Your life is reflected in your sleep and your sleep is reflected in your life."
Even if your dream isn't about coronavirus, chances are it's related to what's going on in the world and the consequences of staying home, Dr. Pelayo said. That might explain why people are dreaming about showing up naked to their Zoom call, too-crowded grocery stores, or stocking up on sold-out items. That could also explain why people are dreaming about death or decay in general (i.e. dead mice appeared in a dream of mine a few weekends ago).
That fellow POPSUGAR editor I spoke to told me that though she's been done with school for three years, many of her recurrent dreams during this time are about it: doing a project, being a student in college again, or sitting in a high school classroom. This could be related to the fact that you're thinking about what it would be like as a student nowadays having virtual lessons and looking at a spiraling economy, Dr. Pelayo said.
That could explain, too, why one PR professional told me that she was having dreams about going out to the bars - most bars are still closed across the country. While in isolation from the rest of the world, she's thinking about getting back to a sense of normalcy. We might also add that Dr. Barrett studied dreams of 79 British officers who were prisoners of war between 1940 and 1942, as documented by Maj. Kenneth Hopkins. A consistent theme? Escape and activities that they missed (like large meals) while in captivity.
Dr. Pelayo said he often uses a phrase: "Your life is reflected in your sleep and your sleep is reflected in your life. It goes in both directions." But some dreams people are having recently really do seem unexplainable. For instance, another colleague of mine said she dreamed she had her splits down, though has never been close. What do splits have to do with coronavirus? Nothing. Then, there's a dream about zombie cream cheese, which I'd pay money to see.
Just woke up from a nightmare where I was alone in a school cafeteria and the cream cheese I smeared on a plate came to life and started crawling towards me while it was signaling to all the other zombies where I was.
- ＫＡＴＲＩＮＡ•ＬＡＷ (@katrinalaw) April 21, 2020
I hate that dream.
F*cking cream cheese. #pandemicdreams
Bottom line? The experts we spoke to have explained evidence-based connections between strange dreams we're having and the stress of the pandemic going on in the world around us, but interpreting your dreams is up to you. Dr. Tal said he doesn't think there's harm in trying to make sense of themL "I think you can learn a lot about yourself, and in some cultures, it can be symbolic or prophetic. So I would never tell people to shy away from it unless it's causing stress." He suggested keeping a dream journal but advised that if you're feeling very stressed during this time, talk about it and find support (like this list of free mental health services). Just know that whether you're dreaming about Gavin Leatherwood, zombie cream cheese, or getting sick, you're not losing it. The pandemic could very well be to blame.
It's No Secret Target Has Great Furniture - These Are the 28 Pieces That Caught My Eye
Furniture shopping can be an exciting, yet daunting task. Sometimes the amount of choices can stress me out more than anything. When I was looking for my new apartment, I spent hours online browsing endless retailers, but it turns out, a ton of a great options were hiding at Target. Every time I visited the store I saw a handful of nice items, but its site has thousands of even more choices. To help you shop its best selection too, I curated a list of my favorite picks right now.
Ahead, you can shop everything from chic sofas to cool accent chairs and even desks for working at home. All these stylish pieces have one thing in common: they're affordable and won't break the bank. Plus, they're delivered right to doorstep, making redecorating easier than ever. Keep reading to shop my top picks and see which ones fit in your space.
I'm All About Peace of Mind Right Now, and This Is the Diffuser That's Helping Me Stay Calm
I've been spending more time at home, and my goal is to make my apartment as cozy as possible. This means having cookware like dutch ovens (because homemade bread is most definitely cozy), eye masks, quality sheets, candles, comfy loungewear, and a minimal style when it comes to decor.
The latest cozy edition I've made to my apartment is the Vitruvi Stone Diffuser ($119), and I can't get enough of it. A lot of my friends swear by diffusers and essential oils to help them feel more relaxed and they were not wrong at all. There are a lot of diffusers on the market but in my opinion, what sets the Vitruvi diffuser apart from other brands is the aesthetic.
This diffuser is made from a porcelain material with a stone finish, and the terracotta color reminds me of my love for Southwestern design and goes well with my terracotta planters and vases. I'd describe my apartment as minimal, and I love that this diffuser isn't excessively large and that it doesn't look like a traditional diffuser; instead, it reminds me of a simple piece of pottery.
I've never owned a diffuser before, but I do like that I have the ability to set the diffuser to run continuously for three hours, and on the days when I really need to chill (every day), I opt to use the seven-hour intermittent setting. I also like that in the event I forget to turn off the diffuser, it automatically shuts off once the time is up or the water runs out. Pro tip: Doing yoga or meditating while diffusing essential oils will leave you feeling extremely zen. I've been using this diffuser nonstop, and highly recommend it for anyone who needs a little more relaxation in their life.
17 Stunning Area Rugs That Will Instantly Bring Color Into Your Home
My apartment is covered in brown carpets and walls, so I'm on a mission to brighten up my space. One major home decor item I want to help that is a new area rug. Rather than getting something neutral that will just blend right in, I'm looking to invest in a colorful piece. Large rugs can often cost a fortune, but thanks to the internet it's easy to shop affordable, stylish, and high-quality options.
If you're also looking to spruce up your space with a fresh rug, then you're in luck. I scoured several of my favorite home shopping sites for the best of the best picks out there right now, so all you have to do is find your match. I looked to places like Amazon, Wayfair, and Urban Outfitters, because all its selections blew me away. Ahead, you'll find my 17 favorite colorful picks that will instantly transform any room. Take a look.
30+ Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Recipes That Will Make Dinner Seriously Exciting
Let's face it: boneless, skinless chicken breasts aren't exactly the definition of exciting. Prone to drying out, the lean dinner staple can also be pretty bland if underseasoned and overcooked. And yet they're a staple for good reason: they're convenient, reasonably economical, and can even be delicious (really!) when treated right. Keep reading for plenty of dinner ideas ranging from a Tex-Mex pasta casserole to lemony-bright chicken piccata to a memorable chicken, kale, and avocado salad. You're bound to find a new favorite to add to your rotation - and then can change it up again!
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
Get Your Heart Rate Up With This 10-Minute Bodyweight HIIT Workout
It's time to get your heart rate up and strengthen your abs with this two-for-one HIIT ab workout. This workout is going to work your obliques, your rectus abdominals (the six-pack muscles), and your transverse abdomnis (your deep core muscles); you're going to be winded once it's over. Grab a towel and some water, because it's about to get sweaty!
The 10-Minute HIIT Ab Workout
Complete each exercise for 30 seconds, and take 15 seconds of rest in between each move. It doesn't matter how many reps you complete within the 30-second time frame; focus on your form. Take 45 seconds to one minute of rest in between each round. Complete three rounds.
- Mountain climber: 30 seconds
- Side plank with a dip: 30 seconds (15 seconds on each side)
- Seated knee tuck: 30 seconds
- Up-down plank: 30 seconds
- Russian twist: 30 seconds
Turn Your Home Into a Spring Oasis With Wayfair's 20 Best Decor Pieces
It's no secret that Wayfair is one of our favorite shopping destinations for its affordable and stylish furniture pieces. But after you finish furnishing your home, then it's time to decorate, and the retailer has plenty of chic options for that, too. Scouring its thousands of choices though can be overwhelming, so we decided to do the hard work for you. We searched the site and hunted down its absolute best picks that you can shop.
Ahead, you can browse everything from colorful throw pillows to fun wall art and beautiful area rugs. The best part: these picks won't break the bank, and they'll be delivered right to your front door. So, what are you waiting for? Give your home the refresh it needs this spring and shop these popular choices.
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