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8 Trendy Nail Shapes And Colors You Need To Try This Spring
Get ready for your next nail appointment!
22 April
36264
Photo by Analia Baggiano on Unsplash
Getting a set of acrylics or a simple gel manicure can automatically transform your entire look. Who doesn’t love beautifully done nails, right? I am going to break down the five main nail shapes and pair them with five fun colors that will have you ready for spring!
1. Square
This nail shape is one of my favorites! The square-shaped nail is very clean and classic. You can’t go wrong with this look!
woman doing manicure Photo by rashid khreiss on Unsplash
2. Casket
3. I'll have a blood orange ombré. Picaso Nails
3. Square Round
This shape is much like the classic square nail, only adding rounded edges. This nail shape gives a softer, elegant look for those times you're feeling classy!
person wearing gold ring holding black textile Photo by Bryony Elena on Unsplash
4. Pointed
The pointed or almond shaped nail is all the rage in Hollywood. Celebs are always caught rocking this extremely edgy look. Stunt these nails and you’ll run with the A-listers!
selective focus photography of woman's pink manicure Photo by DESIGNECOLOGIST on Unsplash
5. Oval
If the pointed shape was a bit too hard core for your liking, the oval shape is perfect for you! This shape is a softer version of the pointed nail, with a curved top.
persons hand on pink surface Photo by KARTIK GADA on Unsplash
Whether you want to sport these five different acrylic nail shapes or simply want to rock your natural nails with a gel manicure, you must take time to think of the perfect nail color! Here are nail colors perfect for spring time!
1. Soft Neutrals
You can never go wrong with neutrals! Neutrals work all year long but look even better on a nice, sunny, afternoon during spring time!
white clouds during daytime Photo by Vai Da on Unsplash
2. Bright & Vibrant
Vibrant, loud colors are perfect for spring! Have fun with bright pinks, blues, etc., spring is a great season to experiment and try new nail colors.
multicolored hallway Photo by Efe Kurnaz on Unsplash
3. Pastels
All colors of the rainbow look amazing as pastels, you simply can’t go wrong! The soft shades give an easy, breezy feel that’s perfect for beach weather!
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Cravings Decoded: Eat This, Not That!
The truth behind your cravings and realistic, healthier options (not just salad).
19 April
165567
StableDiffusion
Let me be the first to say I am not a doctor. That being said, I am a girl who has a lot of cravings. Scientists say our bodies crave food for different reasons. Sometimes we're stressed or looking for gratification to the pleasure centers of our brain, but other times our bodies are trying to tell us something. Whenever I crave food, I've found its usually my body trying to tell me that it needs something (unless I have two papers due and a midterm the next day, then I know I'm stressed).
Next time you're craving something -- unless you're just stressed -- try listening to what your body is trying to tell you.
When you crave chocolate...
Photo by Nathana Rebouças on Unsplash
Why do you crave it?
When you crave chocolate often times your body needs magnesium. If you drink lots of soda, the phosphorus in it binds with the magnesium in your diet and flushes it out of your system. Similarly, eating lots of desserts and sweet food containing refined sugar causes your body to flush magnesium out of your body. You need magnesium for over 300 chemical reactions in your body including reactions involved in cardiovascular health, bone health, and energy.
What to eat instead of chocolate...
Instead of eating sugary, fatty milk chocolate, try dark chocolate. It has the magnesium you're craving without the refined sugar that is making you magnesium deficient. Other high magnesium foods include dark, leafy greens, beans, avocados, and bananas.
When you crave spicy foods...
Photo by Timothy L Brock on UnsplashWhy do you crave it?
If you've ever noticed, the cultures that have spicy foods as part of their cuisines are generally from warmer climates (India, Mexico, South Africa, the Caribbean, etc.). Some think this is because eating spicy foods actually gets your body to cool down. This happens because your body sweats as a reaction to eating spicy food which ultimately cools you down. Sometimes we also crave spicy food when we're sick to clear our sinuses or because they release endorphins which can relieve pain and enhance your mood. Spicy food can also increase your metabolism (but craving it could indicate a thyroid imbalance).
What to eat instead of spicy foods...
Instead of eating Hot Cheetos that have little to no nutritional value (which is what I tend to grab), there a plenty of low-calorie options. Many taco sauces have little to no calories and are a great way to add some spice to your food.
When you crave salt...
Photo by Fedor on UnsplashWhy do you crave it?
Craving salt often indicates an electrolyte imbalance. If you're not drinking enough water, or too much, your body can get confused and crave salt. I have this problem a lot because I always forget to drink enough water when I'm at work or in class and by the end of the day I'm craving salt. Salt cravings can also be a sign of adrenal stress (prolonged stress puts pressure on adrenal glands).
What to eat instead of salt...
Drink water! Making sure you're hydrated will help not only your salt cravings but will help keep you full and less tempted to indulge other cravings.
When you crave ice...
StableDiffusionWhy do you crave it?
According to many health professionals, craving ice could indicate anemia or iron deficiency but the reasoning is unclear. It could also mean you're dehydrated or need to cool down, but if you're craving ice frequently, you should see a doctor to make sure it's not anemia.
What to eat instead...
There is no harm in eating ice, but if it indicates anemia it could be serious. If eating red meat, spinach, leafy greens, beans, or other high-iron foods reduces your cravings for ice, then you definitely need to see a doctor.
When you crave vinegary food (pickles, salt and vinegar chips, sauerkraut)...
StableDiffusionWhy do you crave it?
Craving vinegary, acidic foods can indicate something is up with your stomach acid. If your stomach doesn't have enough acid, eating vinegary foods can trigger it to produce more. Low stomach acid can be caused my many things (including stress) and causes a variety of health problems like hair loss.
What to eat instead...
Eating unprocessed, wholesome food helps your stomach produce the proper amount of acid. Combining meat with citrus or vinegar can help make digestion easier on your stomach, reducing the imbalance of stomach acid.
When you crave carbs...
StableDiffusionWhy do you crave it?
When you're craving carbs, it can be your body's way of telling you that you need a quick energy source. Your blood sugar could be low and carbs are a quick way of raising it.
What to eat instead...
Eating more fiber can help stabilize your blood sugar so there are less fluctuations. Triscuits are a good carb that can satisfy your craving but also have lots of fiber. Nuts are another snack that help raise your blood sugar but aren't full of "empty calories" like white bread or pasta. I'll admit I indulge in carbs from time to time, but it isn't all bad as long as you have a balanced meal (i.e. pasta with vegetables and lean protein).
When you crave oily or fatty foods...
StableDiffusionWhy are you craving it?
Craving oily or fatty foods can be your body's way of telling you that you need more calcium. Your body does need fat to be able to function properly so it is important to not deprive it of that. Oily and fatty foods smell and taste good so the pleasure center of our brain is rewarded every time we eat them.
What to eat instead...
The last thing I want to eat when I'm craving oily, fatty food is dark, leafy greens. Everyone will tell you to eat foods high in calcium like that, but a more realistic option is to eat something like yogurt or cheese. There are plenty of dairy products that will give you calcium and other nutrients your body wants and are still healthy options.
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25 Journal Prompts For Stress And Anxiety
18. What is one thing you are scared to do, and how can you overcome it?
15 April
34724
Pexels
When we hear the word 'journal' I think most of us are brought back to our elementary school days and remember all of our "dear diary" moments. However, journaling has a lot of benefits, but it can be hard to start, especially if you don't have a specific reason for why you are journaling. One of the best things about it is that it is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. Sometimes just the act of writing your thoughts out can help you feel relief. If you are contemplating starting a journal, here are 25 prompts to help you out!
1. How do you want to feel when you wake up in the morning?
2. List five good things about today.
3. What are some of your values in life?
4. Did you feel stressed or anxious today? If so, what triggered that feeling, and what did you do to overcome it?
5. What is one thing you can improve on (time management, communication, etc.), and how can you do this?
6. What is one adjustment you would like to make to your morning routine?
7. What is one adjustment you would like to make to your nighttime routine?
8. What is one thing you need to let go of?
9. Make a list of twenty things that make you happy.
10. Write down the lyrics to a song that makes you happy. What is it about this song that makes you feel this way?
11. What is one place you would love to travel to and why?
12. Have you been exercising patience with others? If not, how can you?
13. What is a new skill that you would like to earn and how can you learn it?
14. Are there any areas of your life that can be more organized? How can you accomplish this? What can you do to prevent disorganization in the future?
15. What is one long-term goal you wish to work towards?
16. Draw a picture of something that makes you happy. Write about the picture.
17. What steps have you taken towards a goal of yours (short or long-term)? If you haven't taken any, what steps could you be taking to work towards it?
18. What is one thing you are scared to do, and how can you overcome it?
19. How can I be more mindful of others?
20. Was today a difficult day? If so, what made it difficult and what can you do to prevent from having days like this in the future?
21. What is one problem you had today, and what was your solution to this problem? Was is the best way you could have handled it?
22. Are you taking time to care for yourself? Do you allow yourself time to relax and breathe? If the answer is no, what can you do to give yourself this time?
23. Think about a past mistake you made. What did you learn from the experience and how can it be applied to your future?
24. Write about something that you are scared of.
25. Write a letter to your future self.
I hope these prompts can help you. Happy journaling!
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19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town
There have been many lessons learned.
12 April
29255
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash
Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
1. The importance of traditions.
Sometimes traditions seem like a silly thing, but the fact of it is that it's part of who you are. You grew up this way and, more than likely, so did your parents. It is something that is part of your family history and that is more important than anything.
women in street dancing Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash
2. How to be thankful for family and friends.
No matter how many times they get on your nerves or make you mad, they are the ones who will always be there and you should never take that for granted.
man and woman standing in front of louver door Photo by Lucas Lenzi on Unsplash
3. How to give back.
When tragedy strikes in a small town, everyone feels obligated to help out because, whether directly or indirectly, it affects you too. It is easy in a bigger city to be able to disconnect from certain problems. But in a small town those problems affect everyone.
man in black t-shirt holding coca cola bottle Photo by Joel Muniz on Unsplash
4. What the word "community" really means.
Along the same lines as #3, everyone is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand when you need one in a small town and to me that is the true meaning of community. It's working together to build a better atmosphere, being there to raise each other up, build each other up, and pick each other up when someone is in need. A small town community is full of endless support whether it be after a tragedy or at a hometown sports game. Everyone shows up to show their support.
red and white coca cola signage Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash
5. That it isn't about the destination, but the journey.
People say this to others all the time, but it takes on a whole new meaning in a small town. It is true that life is about the journey, but when you're from a small town, you know it's about the journey because the journey probably takes longer than you spend at the destination. Everything is so far away that it is totally normal to spend a couple hours in the car on your way to some form of entertainment. And most of the time, you're gonna have as many, if not more, memories and laughs on the journey than at the destination.
man holding luggage photo Photo by Mantas Hesthaven on Unsplash
6. The consequences of making bad choices.
Word travels fast in a small town, so don't think you're gonna get away with anything. In fact, your parents probably know what you did before you even have a chance to get home and tell them. And forget about being scared of what your teacher, principle, or other authority figure is going to do, you're more afraid of what your parents are gonna do when you get home.
topless boy in blue denim jeans riding red bicycle during daytime Photo by Jackson Simmer on Unsplash
7. To trust people, until you have a reason not to.
Everyone deserves a chance. Most people don't have ill-intentions and you can't live your life guarding against every one else just because a few people in your life have betrayed your trust.
trust spelled with wooden letter blocks on a table Photo by Ronda Dorsey on Unsplash
8. To be welcoming and accepting of everyone.
While small towns are not always extremely diverse, they do contain people with a lot of different stories, struggle, and backgrounds. In a small town, it is pretty hard to exclude anyone because of who they are or what they come from because there aren't many people to choose from. A small town teaches you that just because someone isn't the same as you, doesn't mean you can't be great friends.
Everyone is Welcome signage Photo by Katie Moum on Unsplash
9. How to be my own, individual person.
In a small town, you learn that it's okay to be who you are and do your own thing. You learn that confidence isn't how beautiful you are or how much money you have, it's who you are on the inside.
man with cap and background with red and pink wall l Photo by Andre Hunter on Unsplash
10. How to work for what I want.
Nothing comes easy in life. They always say "gardens don't grow overnight" and if you're from a small town you know this both figuratively and literally. You certainly know gardens don't grow overnight because you've worked in a garden or two. But you also know that to get to the place you want to be in life it takes work and effort. It doesn't just happen because you want it to.
difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations desk decor Photo by Nik on Unsplash
11. How to be great at giving directions.
If you're from a small town, you know that you will probably only meet a handful of people in your life who ACTUALLY know where your town is. And forget about the people who accidentally enter into your town because of google maps. You've gotten really good at giving them directions right back to the interstate.
photography of woman pointing her finger near an man Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash
12. How to be humble.
My small town has definitely taught me how to be humble. It isn't always about you, and anyone who grows up in a small town knows that. Everyone gets their moment in the spotlight, and since there's so few of us, we're probably best friends with everyone so we are as excited when they get their moment of fame as we are when we get ours.
closeup photography of woman smiling Photo by Michael Dam on Unsplash
13. To be well-rounded.
Going to a small town high school definitely made me well-rounded. There isn't enough kids in the school to fill up all the clubs and sports teams individually so be ready to be a part of them all.
a man doing a trick on a skateboard Photo by Ruben Christen on Unsplash
14. How to be great at conflict resolution.
In a small town, good luck holding a grudge. In a bigger city you can just avoid a person you don't like or who you've had problems with. But not in a small town. You better resolve the issue fast because you're bound to see them at least 5 times a week.
two men talking Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash
15. The beauty of getting outside and exploring.
One of my favorite things about growing up in a rural area was being able to go outside and go exploring and not have to worry about being in danger. There is nothing more exciting then finding a new place somewhere in town or in the woods and just spending time there enjoying the natural beauty around you.
running man on bridge Photo by Fabio Comparelli on Unsplash
16. To be prepared for anything.
You never know what may happen. If you get a flat tire, you better know how to change it yourself because you never know if you will be able to get ahold of someone else to come fix it. Mechanics might be too busy, or more than likely you won't even have enough cell service to call one.
orange white and black bag Photo by Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo on Unsplash
17. That you don't always have to do it alone.
It's okay to ask for help. One thing I realized when I moved away from my town for college, was how much my town has taught me that I could ask for help is I needed it. I got into a couple situations outside of my town where I couldn't find anyone to help me and found myself thinking, if I was in my town there would be tons of people ready to help me. And even though I couldn't find anyone to help, you better believe I wasn't afraid to ask.
girl sitting on gray rocks Photo by George Bakos on Unsplash
18. How to be creative.
When you're at least an hour away from normal forms of entertainment such as movie theaters and malls, you learn to get real creative in entertaining yourself. Whether it be a night looking at the stars in the bed of a pickup truck or having a movie marathon in a blanket fort at home, you know how to make your own good time.
assorted-color painted wall with painting materials Photo by Matthieu Comoy on Unsplash
19. To brush off gossip.
It's all about knowing the person you are and not letting others influence your opinion of yourself. In small towns, there is plenty of gossip. But as long as you know who you really are, it will always blow over.
three women sitting on brown wooden bench Photo by Ben White on Unsplash
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Entertainment
25 Beatles Lyrics: Your Go-To Guide for Every Situation
The Best Lines from the Fab Four
22 April
36776
Wikipedia Commons
For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.
And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make
The End- Abbey Road, 1969
The sun is up, the sky is blue, it's beautiful and so are you
Dear Prudence- The White Album, 1968
Love is old, love is new, love is all, love is you
Because- Abbey Road, 1969
There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be
All You Need Is Love, 1967
Life is very short, and there's no time for fussing and fighting, my friend
We Can Work It Out- Rubber Soul, 1965
He say, "I know you, you know me", One thing I can tell you is you got to be free
Come Together- Abbey Road, 1969
Oh please, say to me, You'll let me be your man. And please say to me, You'll let me hold your hand
I Wanna Hold Your Hand- Meet The Beatles!, 1964
It was twenty years ago today, Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play. They've been going in and out of style, but they're guaranteed to raise a smile
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-1967
Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see
Strawberry Fields Forever- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967
Can you hear me? When it rains and shine, it's just a state of mind
Rain- Paperback Writer "B" side, 1966
Little darling, it's been long cold lonely winter. Little darling, it feels like years since it' s been here. Here comes the sun, Here comes the sun, and I say it's alright
Here Comes The Sun- Abbey Road, 1969
We danced through the night and we held each other tight, and before too long I fell in love with her. Now, I'll never dance with another when I saw her standing there
Saw Her Standing There- Please Please Me, 1963
I love you, I love you, I love you, that's all I want to say
Michelle- Rubber Soul, 1965
You say you want a revolution. Well you know, we all want to change the world
Revolution- The Beatles, 1968
All the lonely people, where do they all come from. All the lonely people, where do they all belong
Eleanor Rigby- Revolver, 1966
Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends
With A Little Help From My Friends- Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, 1967
Hey Jude, don't make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better
Hey Jude, 1968
Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away. Now it looks as though they're here to stay. Oh, I believe in yesterday
Yesterday- Help!, 1965
And when the brokenhearted people, living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.
Let It Be- Let It Be, 1970
And anytime you feel the pain, Hey Jude, refrain. Don't carry the world upon your shoulders
Hey Jude, 1968
I'll give you all I got to give if you say you'll love me too. I may not have a lot to give but what I got I'll give to you. I don't care too much for money. Money can't buy me love
Can't Buy Me Love- A Hard Day's Night, 1964
All you need is love, love is all you need
All You Need Is Love- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be
Let It Be- Let It Be, 1970
Blackbird singing in the dead of night, Take these broken wings and learn to fly. All your life, You were only waiting for this moment to arise
Blackbird- The White Album, 1968
Though I know I'll never lose affection, for people and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more
In My Life- Rubber Soul, 1965
While these are my 25 favorites, there are quite literally 1000s that could have been included. The Beatles' body of work is massive and there is something for everyone. If you have been living under a rock and haven't discovered the Fab Four, you have to get musically educated. Stream them on Spotify, find them on iTunes or even buy a CD or record (Yes, those still exist!). I would suggest starting with 1, which is a collection of most of their #1 songs, or the 1968 White Album. Give them chance and you'll never look back.
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