TIPS FOR LIVING A MORE CAREFREE LIFE

Do your friends often accuse you of overthinking things? Do you wish you could just let go and enjoy yourself more? Do you see other people who don't seem bothered by the things that nag at you? You can lead a more carefree life even if you can't imagine how you'll get there from where you are now, and the tips below can get you started.

Do Frivolous Things

If the above description fits you, chances are, you have a hard time doing things just because. You tend to want things to have more than one purpose. You're probably always thinking about how you can multitask or if a particular activity can be enriching. To combat this, force yourself to do some things just because they are fun or they feel good. Give yourself an hour or two to read a book or binge your favorite TV show. Go for a walk, or take a warm bath.

If you're still struggling to truly indulge, try an intermediate step. Get yourself something that is mostly indulgent. You can add castor oil to your beauty routine. Pick some up to enhance the hair on your head as well as your lashes and eyebrows. It can even be good for skin and lips mixed with essential oils. This allows you to do something to improve your appearance while also nourishing your body naturally. Now go for the full indulgence, whether it's buying an impractical article of clothing that you love, spending the afternoon reading in your hammock just because or engaging in some other activity for the sheer enjoyment of it.

Let Other People Go

If you're not very carefree, there's a chance that you're not very good at letting others be carefree either. In fact, you might have a hard time letting your loved ones be exactly who they are, up to and including allowing them to making mistakes. Even though you have the best of intentions, you need to step back. When you feel an urge to give your opinion or tell someone they are making a mistake, rather than blurting it out, just sit with that feeling for a little while. This person isn't doing what you think they should, and the sky isn't falling. A pleasant side effect of this is that as you train yourself to realize that you don't have to take care of other people all the time, you relax a lot more.

Be Spontaneous

Most likely, this goes against your nature. You're a planner, perhaps even a worrier. You'll probably never be an impulsive person, but it won't hurt to inject a little spontaneity into your life. Where you do that is up to you. Don't make yourself miserable, but try pushing a little past your comfort zone. Avoid making a detailed to-do list for the day. Resolve to say yes to any invitations you get. Make a purchase without endlessly researching to make sure that you're optimizing for the very best product. Strike up a conversation with a stranger. When you're deciding whether to do something, give yourself a time limit of just a minute or two before landing on a decision so that you don't get stuck in analysis paralysis.

THE BEST VENUES AROUND THE COUNTRY TO CELEBRATE THE MELBOURNE CUP

There’s no doubt that the best seats to watch the Melbourne Cup from are at Flemington, but if you’re not one of the lucky 100,000 or so who gets to attend this year, there are plenty of other high-quality places to enjoy the race around the country. These are some of the best of them.

1. The Grace Darling Hotel, Melbourne

The Grace Darling Hotel in Collingwood has everything you need for a great Melbourne Cup Day. First and foremost, they have a huge screen on which the big race itself is shown, as well as the rest of the racing throughout the course of the first Tuesday in November. They also run a Melbourne Cup sweep for those wishing to get involved in the action, as well as a barbecue to fulfil all of your culinary needs. Add to that the fact they have a DJ throughout the day and that you can stay there long after the horses have gone home, and this is a great place to spend the entirety of Melbourne Cup Day (and night).

2. Redfern Turf Club, Sydney

The Redfern Turf Club in Sydney might not have all the glamorous bells and whistles that many associate with Melbourne Cup Day, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great place to spend the afternoon. They offer an array of quality, relatively inexpensive food, and great deals on booze also attract plenty of punters. The races are shown all day long on a big screen, and with customers making the most of all the quality food and drinks on offer, the atmosphere here is electric on Cup Day.

3. Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide

There are venues which show the Melbourne Cup, and there are others which truly celebrate it. The Mayfair Hotel falls into the latter of those two categories. Attendees can pay for a package on their rooftop bar and get to enjoy a host of premium beverages, hours’ worth of canapes being shared around the room, and have in the past even had a seafood station. They get people more involved in the racing festivities by organising a Melbourne Cup sweep, and once the food and drinks included in the package have been eaten and drunk, the public is welcomed to the rooftop to add even further to the atmosphere.

4. Doomben Racecourse, Brisbane

It might not quite be as good as the real thing, but if you desperately want to feel like you’re part of the action then Doomben Racecourse might be just the place for you. They pull out all the stops in an attempt to make a trip to Doomben every bit as good as a trip to Flemington, with pop-up bars and restaurants a major attraction, and plenty of screens on which to watch the big race. They also host their own Fashions on the Field, so punters can get as dressed up as they would at Flemington for the big day.

Heading to Flemington to watch the action live is one of the best ways to celebrate Australia’s biggest horse race, but there are plenty of other Melbourne Cup venues around the country that do their best to match it. Whether you’re celebrating the public holiday in Melbourne or find yourself elsewhere around the country, you’re sure to find plenty of places screening the race, and the above four are some of the best of them.

HOW ATHLEISURE ADVANCES 'YOU SHOP, BRANDS DONATE' CAMPAIGN

The athleisure trend is now more popular than ever as more men and women are learning that there’s no need to compromise between style and comfort. These functional and fashionable clothes provide ease of movement as people tackle various responsibilities at home. Athleisure companies have continued to see a steady rise in the demand for their products, and it’s impressive that they’re also participating in confronting important social causes today.   

Athleisure Amid COVID-19 

The stay-at-home measures initially implemented to keep people safe from the COVID-19 virus have contributed to the rise in popularity of athleisure clothes. When people started working from their homes, office workers made a complete 180-degree turn and switched their office attires to activewear-inspired clothing.

Athleisure is suddenly becoming the unofficial work-from-home uniform. With this style of clothing, workers who spend their days in video conferences can easily transition to nights of movie binging. So, in many ways, this particular style and trend can help people take good care of themselves and look after both their physical and mental health this year.  

More Than Just Brands 

As mentioned, certain athleisurewear brands also support different charitable organizations as a way of giving back. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the global challenges in the economy, athleisure brands actively took part in the you shop, brands donate campaign that aims to extend compassion, kindness, and generosity with the help of customers. For every item sold, these companies will donate a fraction of their profits to the charities they partnered with or the ones you directly choose to help. 

Moreover, athleisure companies aren’t just doing this because of the rise in their profitability. Many of them already chose to give back even before the pandemic began. However, there has been an undeniable rise in companies supporting charitable organizations.  

As these brands continue to experience steady business, the industry’s value is expected to reach USD$257 billion in 2026, according to the data from Allied Market Research. This isn’t surprising since athleisurewear purchases in the states alone reached an estimated value of USD$81 billion in 2021.  

Deserving Charities 

Here are a few of the charities receiving aid from the athleisure companies:  

1. Children With Cancer 

A brand made it a mission to donate to American children who have cancer by selling beanies. The sales of over 130,000 beanies benefited pediatric cancer patients. Non-profit organizations have also received half of the profits to support pediatric oncology research and other related works. Part of the proceeds also went to fund the immediate needs of the families of the children battling the disease.   

2. Strays and Wildlife 

Humans aren’t the only recipients of the kindness of athleisure brands. For instance, the owners of a certain brand, who also happen to be dog lovers, launched a mini collection featuring their two dogs. Ten percent of the proceeds from the matching top and legging set will go to charities that rehome strays. Some companies are also funding the wildlife rescue in Guatemala. A fraction of their revenue aids in the rehabilitation and release of animals to the wild.  

3. Mothers 

A few athleisure brands launched a maternity collection that allows expectant mothers to be active during their pregnancy. One of these companies is partnering with an organization to provide aid to impoverished expectant mothers. For every product purchase, funds are set aside for local and international recipients such as the Downtown Women’s Center, California Wildfire victims, Midwives for Haiti, and prenatal care.  

4. Clean Water For Poor Families 

Access to clean drinkable water may be a fundamental human right, but some of the world’s most impoverished neighborhoods see it as a luxury. Many people continue to suffer from the effects of water scarcity. Fortunately, some of your favorite activewear brands donate at least 5% of their net profits to multiple charitable causes.

5. Factory Workers

Factory workers in many developing countries often have to make the most of unfavorable working conditions. For this reason, certain athleisure brands made it their goal to work with a non-profit organization, ShareHope, to provide monetary aid for social programs in these developing countries. At the same time, factory workers are offered the opportunity to finish high school education and receive training in health, waste management, and proper sanitation practices.  

In Conclusion 

Contrary to what many believe, not all companies only care about profits. Some, including many athleisure brands, still acknowledge their social responsibility and donate to worthy causes as a way of add meaning to their businesses. They also offer an opportunity for customers to help out way simply by purchasing their products.  

5 WAYS TO MANAGE ANXIETY THROUGH EXERCISE AND HEALTHY EATING

Many people assume that they will never be able to fully manage their anxiety. They feel lost in the shadows, worried that they will have a panic attack and have to worry about that for years to come. The good news is that through exercise and healthy eating, you will be able to take control over your life and stop dealing with the panic attacks for good. Some of the ways that exercise and healthy eating can help you out include:

Helps Stabilize the Mood

Exercising is going to do some wonders when it comes to stabilizing your mood. When you get the heart pumping, you are able to let out some feel-good hormones that can turn an anxious or bad mood into something good. The workout does not need to be complicated. Something simple liking walking around the block can make a big difference. 

Helps You Sleep Better

When you are low on sleep, it is easy to feel anxious and stressed out more than before. And with unhealthy food and lots of caffeine each day, you are setting yourself up for failure when it comes to the amount of sleep that you will get. With a healthy diet, you can help yourself get into a good rhythm, knowing when it is time to sleep and when it is time to be awake. This will ensure that you are able to get the good nights’ sleep that you need so you can chase anxiety away. 

Stabilizes Your Energy Levels

Eating healthy meals that are spaced evenly throughout the day can help us maintain the consistent energy that we really need. With an unhealthy diet, our energy levels will often go through peaks and valleys and that can aid in the anxiety that we are feeling. With the help of healthy foods with lots of nutrients, we are able to keep the energy stabilized throughout the day. Add in a bit of exercise as well and you will be able to feel more energy than ever until it is time to go to bed. 

Reduces Stress

Our modern lives have bombarded us with a lot of things that we need to get done each day. This can lead us to feeling stressed out, which is a main component of why we feel so anxious and worried all the time. When we exercise and eat healthy, we provide our body with more of the nutrients that are needed to stay healthy and to fight off anxiety and stress. Plus, when we take care of our bodies in this way, we are able to manage other parts of our health, which can reduce anxiety even more. 

Prevents Panic Attacks

A panic attack can be a lonely experience. You may not know when it is going to happen and it may seem impossible to know when it is going to come on. The good news is that with some exercise and healthy eating, you can gain the skills you need to fight off the panic attacks, giving yourself a better chance for success overall. You can learn what your triggers are, stabilize your energy and mood, and fight off those panic attacks better than before. 

Eating Healthy and Exercising Your Body

The best thing you can do for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is to eat a healthy diet and get that body up to move as much as possible. Even small steps in the beginning will make a world of difference and can help you get ahead along the way. And when you do utilize it properly, you will be able to see some of the amazing benefits above. 

2021 US OPEN: EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT THE UPCOMING TOURNAMENT

The final tennis Grand Slam is set to take place at the end of the month, with the US Open scheduled to take place, commencing on Monday 30th August and finishing on Sunday 12th September 2021.

Check out this FAQ about the huge tennis competition to learn everything you need to know about what to expect when some of the biggest tennis stars take to the court and aim for glory in one of the top events the sport has to offer.

Where is the US Open taking place?

The 2021 edition of the competition will be the 141st edition of the prestigious event, making it one of the oldest tournaments to still be in existence.

The competition has regularly been hosted in New York City, with the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center being the main home for the event. Many may not know it by that particular name, though, as it has been known throughout the world as Flushing Meadows.

When is it taking place?

As mentioned, the competition is scheduled to take place at the very end of August, with the Grand Slam being the final one for the season and calendar year.

The very first round will take place on Monday 30th August, whilst the Men’s final will be contested two weeks later as it will be played on Sunday 12th September.

Who is taking part in the competition?

As to be expected, there are a host of top names within professional tennis set to compete in New York City at the end of the month across both the Men’s and the Women’s Singles games, although there are also a number of impressive players to compete in the various Doubles events that are being held, as well.

In the Men’s discipline, players such as Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Rafael Nadal and a host of others will take to the court, whilst female stars such as Ashleigh Barty, Naomi Osaka, Serena Williams, Bianca Andreescu and many others will all compete for the championship.

According to the odds provided by Unibet IN, Djokovic is a clear favorite with odds of -143 in the Men’s Singles, whilst Osaka is considered the favorite at +400 to defend her crown from last year whilst Barty is also close at odds of +700 after having won the Wimbledon title in the last Grand Slam to have been played.

Who is not taking part in the US Open?

Unfortunately for tennis fans, whilst the field is packed out with a number of superstars, there will be many who will be disappointed that there are some huge names who will not be at Flushing Meadows this month.

Perhaps the biggest absence for the Grand Slam will be by Roger Federer, as the icon of the sport had to withdraw because of surgery to his right knee. A five-time winner of the competition - although his last victory on the hard court was back in 2008 - his absence will be sorely missed.

His compatriot, Stan Wawrinka, is also unavailable to participate as he will be nursing an injury to his left foot, whilst defending US Open champion, Dominic Thiem will be unavailable to try and retain his title through a wrist injury.

There is currently only one female player set to miss the tournament, though, with Kiki Bertens having decided to retire following the conclusion of the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games.

Who is the most successful player at the Grand Slam?

There are a number of different storylines that can be followed throughout the competition, with both Djokovic and Nadal seeking to catch their 21st major singles title, thus taking them to a record amount.

In regards, to the Serbian ace, Djokovic will also be seeking to become just the second man to complete the Calendar Year Grand Slam in the Open Era, aiming to follow in the footsteps of legendary Australian Rod Laver who managed to accomplish it back in 1969.

Rafael Nadal is the most successful Men’s player in this year’s edition as he has won the competition four times, whilst Djokovic has won three times. They do, though, remain some way off of the record, which is seven and held by three men; Richard Sears, William Larned and Bill Tilden.

The Women’s Singles event will see Serena Williams go for her seventh title, which will take her into the history books as the most successful female player in the Open Era at the Grand Slam.

CAN I WEAR MY GLASSES WHILE PLAYING SPORTS?

Staying active can be great for your health, both physically and mentally. Some people might question whether they can still keep their glasses on when playing. While these can help to improve your vision, and potentially your success from being able to see better, there are concerns about the safety elements of wearing glasses, as well as hesitation if there is a likelihood of damage. Some sports can be played with glasses, so you might want to opt for these as opposed to spectacle-free alternatives.

Tennis

Tennis can be played either recreationally or as a competitive sport, and is a great way of socializing as well as getting fit. When moving around the court, you may have concerns that your glasses might become loose, especially when you perspire, but this can be overcome prior to commencing play. Learning how to adjust your glasses - see tips on EyeBuyDirect.com - will allow you to make sure they are tight enough to fit your face without hurting, and therefore less likely to fall off throughout play.

Swimming

Swimming is another activity that is great for getting your body moving, but without a lot of pressure on your joints. Whether you choose to do relaxed lengths at the pool, swim at the beach, or even join a local team is up to you. If you do still require aid with your eyesight, you should always opt for glasses over contact lenses. This is due to the chemicals and germs that can be found in the water that, if wearing contacts, could cause irritation or infection to occur within your eyes. While it may not necessarily be comfortable wearing glasses, this will still allow you to see what is in front of you, without putting your overall eye health at risk.

Cycling

Wearing glasses can actually be incredibly beneficial when cycling. The majority of cycling-related activity will take place outside, meaning your eyes could be subjected to damage from the sun’s rays. By wearing UV filtered glasses, or even prescription sunglasses, you will be reducing the level of Ultraviolet light that penetrates through to the eyes. Over time, frequent UV light can increase the likelihood, and severity, of a number of eye conditions, including cataracts. Choosing a frame that wraps around your head, or that has special grips to prevent movement, can help you to keep them in place even as you peddle.

Playing sport is definitely encouraged as a means of improving one’s mood and keeping the body fit and healthy. Partaking in these activities doesn’t mean that you need to let your eyes down. By looking into sports and exercises that you will enjoy, and that you can continue wearing glasses for, you can work out your body and muscles without compromising on your vision. As well, it is worth considering that there is also specially designed eyewear available for certain sports if you do them regularly, so this is something worth checking out.

YACHT CHARTER IN ST TROPEZ

The past 18 months kept us closer to home than we could have ever imagined. As the world begins to open up and vaccines become available, we’re all starting to think about traveling and feeding into our wanderlust. We kept sane by watching a number of our favorite traveling shows that featured yachts, culinary journeys with Stanley Tucci and even looking back at our own pictures when we could pick and go without a thought! With that in mind, we think that our next trip needs to be luxurious and that we must bring a few friends along with us! With a number of destinations on our list, St Tropez has been on our mind for a bit as we’ve tagged quite a few images on our Instagram during quarantine!

Why not travel there in the most luxurious of ways by booking a yacht charter in St Tropez? After all the shows that we’ve watched, we wanted to find the perfect vessel and think that the Moskito is perfect as it’s 180’5”! We can have a party of 12 guests total, there are 6 cabins to rest comfortably and there is a 13 person crew to ensure that your trip is everything that you could imagine! We want to be able to lounge outside while also enjoying a number of amenities from a lower deck relaxation area with a sauna and steam room. Some of us want to relax and will hang out at the exterior deck space. There’s 100sqm sun deck which has panoramic views so that you can get all the natural Vitamin C that you can soak up or you can enjoy a bit of midday sun under the shaded hardtop. After a day of safe sun, you can transition into the jacuzzi!

For our friends who want to play, they can enjoy the beach club aft which has a water-side seclusion to enjoy watersports while also being able to enjoy being onboard! There’s no way that they’ll be bored with access to 2 Jet Skis, 2 Seabobs, 2 GO Bikes, Smart Kat Inflatable Catamaran Sailboat, 2 Red Paddle Boards, 5 PAX Banana, 2 PAX Inflatable Kayak, 11 Superchannel Fins, 4 Subea Full Face Easy Breath Snorkels and so much more!

After all of the activities that you’ll find yourself doing throughout the day, you and your guests can dine al fresco as your chef creates gourmet delicacies. When we’re not lounging or enjoying watersports, you’ll find us in the full-beam sky lounge to catch the views. We also like the lower deck spa which is the perfect spot to get in yoga and to take a moment for yourself or to connect with an intimate group of your fellow guests.

When it comes to planning your next trip, you want a series of memories that will last a lifetime and allow you to enjoy it with those that you invite with you! This trip to St. Tropez aboard the Moskito will be one that you’ll remember whether you stay active, lounge to your hearts content or simply wish to enjoy cocktails and gourmet meals.

4 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT WOMEN'S EARNINGS IN GOLF

In a list of LPGA’s highest-earning pros for this year, four of them have earned a total of more than USD$1 million. In descending order, these are:

• Nelly Korda – USD$1,856,649

• Yuka Saso – USD$1,160,376

• Lydia Ko – USD$1,073,133

• Patty Tavatanakit – USD$1,009,172 

Coincidentally, Korda and Ko won gold and bronze respectively at the women’s individual stroke play at the recently-concluded Tokyo Olympics. Korda is expected to cash in around USD$37,500 from the U.S. for the gold medal finish. On the other hand, Ko won’t get any, as New Zealand doesn’t have such a program for its medalists. (2)

A million dollars may sound like a lot of money (because it really is). But you’ll be surprised at how much money LPGA pros can really earn if they’re serious about golf. 

1. A Drop in the Bucket

Korda’s earnings may be at the top of the LPGA list, but it’s only a drop in the bucket compared to the top earners career-wise. With career earnings just shy of USD$6 million from playing in less than a hundred events, she’s only in 65th place. Her older sister Jessica, who finished 15th in the Olympics, is 20 ranks up with over USD$6.4 million from playing in over 200 events. (3)

If the sisters combine their earnings, it would be comparable to Se Ri Pak, one of the top ten earners with a total of almost USD$12.6 million. Pak played in 365 events before retiring in 2016, a third of which resulting in her ranking in the top ten. (3)

2. Record To Be Broken Soon

As of this writing, Annika Sorenstam holds the title of the highest-earning female golfer career-wise at USD$22,577,025. Don’t let those eight-digit figures be the only thing convincing you. She’s a big name in women’s golf for reasons to be tackled later (3).

However, it won’t be long before that record’s broken. Karrie Webb is just shy of over USD$2 million, but she’s still playing on the greens. Given that the LPGA purse has increased drastically by over 90% since 2013, gaining the title of top career earner is easier than ever. (3)

Another pro bound to break the record soon is Cristie Kerr, whose earnings are around USD$170,000 fewer than Webb’s. Her ambidextrous playstyle (naturally a leftie but plays with her right hand) will help in giving her the edge in future tours. (3)

3. Four of the Top Ten are U.S. Pros

The ten highest-earning career earners collectively earn USD$162.8 million. Of them, four pros are based in the U.S., such as:

• Cristie Kerr – 3rd at USD$20,107,437 from 572 events

• Juli Inkster – 7th at USD$14,038,081 from 715 events

• Stacy Lewis – 8th at USD$13,699,317 from 297 events

• Paula Creamer – 10th at USD$12,134,840 from 339 events

Two represent South Korea: Inbee Park at 4th with USD$17,672,084 from 286 events and Se Ri Pak at 9th with USD$12,583,713 from 365 events. The rest of the list include Annika Sorenstam (Sweden), Karrie Webb (Australia), Lorena Ochoa (Mexico), and Suzann Pettersen (Norway). Four of the top ten have long retired from golf. (3)

4. The Only Female in An All-Male Net Worth List

It’s no surprise that male golfers earn a lot more than female ones, as men’s tours tend to attract more sponsors and a larger audience. Of course, things are slowly getting better with the recent increase in women’s tours’ purses, but it’ll take time before the prize is equal to men’s tours.

That never stopped Sorenstam from becoming the wealthiest female golfer so far. With an estimated net worth of USD$40 million, she’s the only woman on the list of the 50 richest golfers. Even after her official retirement in 2008, she remains a big name in golf for securing more victories, including ten major wins, than any female pro so far. (4)(5)

In fact, she came out of retirement last year to participate in the U.S. Senior Women’s Open and win the event. That’s 12 years of playing little to no golf.

Conclusion

The younger generation of female pros is poised to make a fortune thanks to a growing purse. If you plan on going pro yourself, keep in mind that it won’t be easy. You’ll have to train hard, whether on the greens or at home, to join the ranks of the world’s best.

Nevertheless, the millions in earnings show the stakes that come with a single round of the sport. Only the next several years can tell who the world’s top earner will be.

Sources:

1. “LPGA Tour Money Leaders – 2021,” https://www.espn.com/golf/moneylist/_/tour/lpga

2. “It’s Not Just the Medal. It’s the Payout.” https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/06/sports/olympics/olympics-medals-bonuses.html

3. “CAREER MONEY,” https://www.lpga.com/statistics/money/career-money

4. “Top 50 Richest Golfers,” https://www.celebritynetworth.com/list/top-50-richest-golfers/

5. “Annika Sorenstam Reflects on Her Career,” https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/21/sports/golf/annika-sorenstam-career.html

7 WAYS A COSMETIC DENTIST CAN HELP YOU

Have you ever watched videos of dentists transforming their patients’ teeth? If so, have those clips piqued your curiosity in achieving the same type of smile as the individuals featured in the videos? The good news is that people seeking to enhance their smiles now have a variety of solutions available to them, thanks to cosmetic dentistry. 

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

While standard dentistry is concerned with the health and condition of a person's gingiva and teeth, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of a person's teeth, mouth, and smile. Cosmetic dentists have a wide range of equipment and procedures for enhancing the appearance of your smile.

While cosmetic dentistry has seen a recent increase in popularity, it's still not frequently performed. Only a few colleges provide the degree program, and the American Dental Association has yet to acknowledge the industry as a specialty.

Despite this, cosmetic dentists are licensed and well-trained professionals capable of carrying out procedures appropriately. Teeth whitening, dental implants, inlays and onlays, and orthodontic treatment are just a few of the services they provide. The latter is one of the most often performed procedures; it's a treatment that focuses on rectifying a patient's tooth and jaw structure using braces or aligners and is performed by an Invisalign dentist and an orthodontist.

What Can A Cosmetic Dentist Do For You?

There are several reasons someone would consult a cosmetic dentist. After all, they specialize in dealing with dental problems like tooth decay, discoloration, missing teeth, cracked and damaged teeth as well as malformed teeth. 

Do you struggle with any of those issues? If you answered yes, these are just some of the many treatments a cosmetic dentist may conduct in order to give you a more confident and attractive smile:

1. Dental Implants

A dental implant procedure is accomplished by implanting artificial tooth roots. Titanium and other materials are used to make the implants. Those are then bonded to your jawbone to mimic the roots of your teeth. Dental implants may be a viable option if you're missing one or more permanent teeth. As a result, your implants will appear, feel, and act just like natural teeth.

2. Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening lightens stained or discolored teeth. The procedures involved can deliver excellent outcomes even in a short time. While the treatment isn’t entirely complicated, it still requires a highly skilled dentist to avoid damage to the gums.

Once the teeth are cleared of tartar, plaque, and other debris, the teeth's surface will then be bleached to give a whiter and lighter appearance. While over-the-counter treatments such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and teeth whitening strips seem to provide significant results, professional teeth whitening procedures can yield shades anywhere from five to eight times lighter.

3. Dental Veneers

Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-built and bonded to the teeth's front surface. They're in general made of porcelain or a resin-based composite and are bonded permanently to your teeth.

Veneers can be utilized to correct various dental problems such as chipped, cracked, discolored, or undersized teeth. But aside from those reasons, some people get veneers to create a more even, symmetrical smile. Veneers are usually placed on the upper front eight teeth.

4. Dental Bonding

Teeth bonding is a procedure that's used to repair decaying or broken teeth, improve teeth discoloration, cover tooth gaps, contour teeth, and protect parts of the roots of the teeth. It entails the application of a tooth-colored resin substance with the use of adhesives and a high-intensity dental curing light.

5. Tooth Reshaping

Sometimes referred to as dental contouring, this is a simple, inexpensive cosmetic dentistry procedure that corrects an asymmetrical, chipped, misaligned, or broken tooth. It's a short and painless treatment that includes removing a portion of your tooth's enamel to reshape or lengthen the affected tooth. Cosmetic dentists, however, won't conduct this treatment on patients who have decaying teeth, diseased gums, or infected pulp as removing enamel requires healthy teeth and gums.

6. Dental Crowns

A dental crown is fundamentally a cap that fits over a broken tooth. It can be made of various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal. These crowns can be used to prevent a weakened tooth from fracturing or to conceal malformed or badly discolored teeth cosmetically. The longevity of a crown ranges from five to 15 years, depending on the materials; some crowns are longer-lasting than others, so you might want to check what your options are.

7. Inlays And Onlays

When a tooth is severely decayed, inlays and onlays, commonly known as indirect fillings, are ideal. Such fillers are bonded in place by a cosmetic dentist.

An inlay is a filling that's only bonded in a tooth's core or center portion, whereas an onlay is a filling that covers one or more portions of a tooth or the whole surface of the tooth. This treatment is an alternative to a dental crown since it preserves a tooth's natural surface while strengthening and repairing it after decaying.

Endnote

Cosmetic dentistry is growing in popularity as people place greater importance on youth and aesthetics. Since not all individuals are born with naturally beautiful teeth, they can still achieve a stunning smile with the expertise of a cosmetic dentist. Ask your dentist's advice so you can discuss which procedure would be ideal for you depending on your needs.

11 MUST VISIT PLACES TO VISIT IN EGYPT IN 2021

Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and also a mysterious travel destination. The charm of the land makes it a favorite tourist hub. There is culture and history to enjoy between the Red Sea and the Nile, cities like Cairo and Alexandria, and the historical pyramids.

Against the backdrop of the Sahara Desert, the land is full of wonders and has beauty to entice you. Being a year-round destination, Egypt is favorable to visit anytime and in any season. Here is a list of the most beautiful and mystical places to visit when you plan your vacations.

11 amazing places to visit in the captivating land of Egypt

 1. Pyramids Of Giza

One of the world's seven wonders, the three pyramids, held within the tombs of ancient pharaohs, are a must to visit sites. With a history in its very existence, the pyramids could withstand the test of time for years and years.  

Location: Giza

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

Egypt has now reopened its airports, and you can book your flight with Egyptair airlines and travel to the land of mystique and civilization.

2. Cairo

Cairo district is the capital of Egypt and has monuments, medieval mosques, and madrassas, and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan offers a visible Islamic heritage of the beautiful city.

Location: Cairo

3. Citadel Of Saladin

This place is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built by the famous Ayyubid ruler Saladin to safeguard Fustat and Cairo against invaders, the fort has many houses and watchtowers, numerous magnificent mosques, and the Well of Joseph. When you visit Egypt, make sure that you visit this marvelous place.

Location: Central Cairo

Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM

4. Valley Of Kings, Luxor

Situated on the bank of the Nile, it is one of the most popular tourist spots.  It is best known for the Valley of Kings and houses tombs of pharaohs made from cut rocks. The famous ancient rulers like Amenhotep and Tutankhamun were buried here. Out of 63 graves, only a few are open to visitors. Tutankhamun's tomb is one of the haunted places in the world and has different entry fees.

Location: Luxor

Timings in Summers: 6 AM – 5 PM (4 PM in the winters)

5. Aswan

Away from the chaos of city life, if you are looking for a relaxing travel destination, Aswan, located in Southern Egypt, would be the best place to go. Known for its breath-taking views of the Nile and the desert dunes, this is a perfect getaway to relax and unwind yourself into the lap of nature.

Location: 900 km from Cairo

6. Egyptian Museum

Egyptian museum is a treat to the eyes. Egypt is a land of ancient cities with temples, tombs, and palaces. They are famous for their burial rituals with the dead and different things like books, golden artifacts, gold, and more. The pyramids will say just half of the history and mysteries; the rest are housed in the bosom of the museum. You can also see things that were excavated from the tomb of Tutankhamun, which makes it one of the most stupendous man-made things on this earth.

Location: Cairo

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

7. Rock Temples Of Abu Simbel

The twin temples of Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari were carved out of mountains and astounded the visitors. The rock representation of the royals seated on their thrones and overlooking vast Egypt is an iconic image to view. Situated on the Western banks of Lake Nasser, this place should be on your bucket list.

Location: Abu Simbel, Nubia

Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM

8. Abydos

A spectacular open-air museum and a dream place to visit when you are in Egypt. The Mother of Pots homes the burial ground for the first pharaohs. The excavation site got its name as shards of pots were found, scattered in honor of the kings. In Abydos , there is the temple of Seti I with the famous Abydos List known for the hieroglyphic inscriptions.

Location: 500 km from Cairo

Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM

9. Alexandria

With very few remains of the place, the city is yet one of the most popular destinations of Egypt. Housing the world's biggest library, the town is a unique attraction for book enthusiasts. You can try hanging out in the Pompey pillar square and explore the streets with a row of cafes spread for people to chill and enjoy delectable cuisines that will give you the nostalgia of the land forever.

Location: 200 km from Cairo

10.  Bahariya Oasis

The oasis became famous in 1996 with the excavation of 30 tombs depicting it as a massive burial site.  There were about 250 mummies made of gold and dated back to varying periods of history.  The site also contains remnants from the temple dedicated to Alexander. Besides being a burial spot, Bahariya is a significant place in Egypt, known for wine production.

Other attractions surrounding Bahariya are the Crystal Mountain and the White Desert, both being unique geological structures that captivate visitors.

Location: Western Desert, Egypt

Karnak Temple PHOTO COURTESY | UnSplash/Mo Gabrail

11. Karnak Temple

Situated in Luxor, the temple is one of the most visited tourist places. It includes the Karnak Open Air Museum and holds an aura that can astonish everyone. The complex is a vast site, so it is recommended to spend at least 3 hours exploring thoroughly.

Location: El-Karnak, Luxor

Timings: 6 AM – 5.30 PM

Wrapping up

After this pandemic, wondering where to go to relax and travel? In its supreme beauty, Egypt is a place of a mix of culture and heritage, and we recommend this land on the bank of the Nile. Planning your holiday in Egypt but confused about your stay?  Whether you are looking for the best or the cheapest, Hotels in Sharm El Sheikh will serve you both the interests. Enjoy their food, embrace the beauty of the land and carry home nostalgic moments. 

NEW GENERATION LEADING TEAM USA INTO TOKYO OLYMPICS

The delayed Tokyo Olympics has all the makings of a watershed between generations of athletes. With no competing nation at the Games does that look more likely on paper than with the USA.

As with all Olympic squads, there will be a blend of youth and experience. While veterans of this grand sporting stage such as sprinter Allyson Felix, who we interviewed before the last Games in Rio, will be looking to represent their country one more time, for others it passes them by.

It was recently confirmed that one of the all-time greats of women’s tennis and former two-time Olympic singles champion Serena Williams would miss Tokyo, according to CNN. As she turns 40 in the fall, it is almost certain this was her last chance to compete at the ultimate sporting gala.

Team USA have other hopefuls for women’s tennis, based on the ever-fluid WTA rankings from the professional tour. In track and field, meanwhile, such is the strength in depth of American athletes that run, jump, or throw that the US Trials are like a mini-Olympics in themselves.

New Breed More Impressive Than Ever in Trials

This school of hard knocks and tough competition just for successful athletes to punch their tickets to major championships readies them for the ultimate challenge. There are disappointments for many, and big reputations count for nothing if you do not deliver on the track or out in the field.

Justin Gatlin was a mainstay of American men’s sprinting for much of the last two decades, but trying to reach a fourth Olympic Games as he nears 40 was just a step too far. Oregon Live reported that he limped out of the final, which was his final chance to make another appearance at the Olympics.

Such is the quantity and quality that has come through the US collegiate system that this country produced six guys running the 100m in a season’s best time of under 9.90 seconds this year.

If US Trials men’s 200m winner and reigning world champion Noah Lyles, who turns 24 before the Olympics, makes Gatlin feel old, the men’s 400m world leader Randolph Ross was born in 2001! America’s gold medal hopes are many and plenty are in their early 20s.

Grant Holloway, another who delighted in Doha at the last World Athletics Championships in 2019, was just a hundredth of a second outside the men’s 100m hurdles world record at the US Trials. This has also been a vintage year for the longer distance hurdle race too with Raj Benjamin running the third fastest time in history in Eugene only for Norway’s Karsten Warholm to smash the world record on home soil at the Bislett Games in Oslo just days later.

US Firm Favorites for Most Gold Medals

New names and fresh faces are popping up everywhere on the road to the Games of the XXXII Olympiad. In the field, JuVaughn Harrison has been a revelation in both the sandpit for the long jump and clearing the bar in the high jump. He is just 22 years of age. The youngest member of the American track team is Athing Mu at 19-years-old, but an exceptional talent at 800m after setting the world lead time for two laps. She’s also among the top five women in the world over 400m this year too.

We may not know this new breed of American track and field athletes as well as icons of the sport such as Felix, Michael Johnson and others from previous generations, but their performances just to make it to the Olympics have seen some serious markers laid down. With so many gold medals up for grabs through running, jumping and from the throws, it’s no wonder that the USA are -700 favorites, as of 5 July, in the sports betting on offer with Betway on which country brings the most home from Tokyo.

Track and field are just one major piece in a wider puzzle at this festival of sport. Team sports that are popular in America like basketball are expected to yield more Olympic golds for the USA, with the action in different disciplines coming thick and fast. They won’t have everything their own way, but the collegiate system produces battle-hardened competitors who have been training to peak at these Games.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING ACCOMODATIONS IN MYKONOS

Mykonos is a destination that’s attractive to almost everyone thanks to its wide variety of offerings - bustling nightlife, fascinating culture, delicious food, and pristine beaches. Who wouldn't want to visit? The biggest problem you’ll have is deciding where to stay on the island, since there are many great options to choose from. The area you choose to stay in will largely depend on your personality and the type of vacation you are looking to have. 

Let’s look at some of the different areas to stay in Mykonos.

Mykonos or the Beach?

This will be your first and biggest decision to make when it comes to planning your trip. Should you stay in Mykonos, or stay on the beach? Staying in Mykonos will give you the best opportunity to experience the nightlife, shopping, and restaurants. But it’s also helpful to know that if you do decide to stay on the beach, buses run regularly between the beach areas and the downtown hub, so it’s easy to enjoy the benefits of either choice without missing out on the charm of the other. 

The old port of Mykonos is the most popular place to stay on the island and is known as downtown Mykonos. There are a large number of hotels, rentals, and luxury Mykonos Villas to choose from. 

What Kind of Vacation Do You Want?

The next decision you will have to make is whether you want a peaceful or adventurous vacation. Luckily, Mykonos has both - whether you are looking for a destination that is buzzing with life or you are after a quiet and peaceful retreat. If you choose to stay near the beach, they will be less crowded than downtown, but you will have to drive to get to the hub, where you will have a greater choice of restaurants and opportunities to mix with the locals. 

Stay In Mykonos Town for the Best Nightlife

If you’re the party-animal type, then you should probably stay in Mykonos Town. This is where you’ll find the most pubs, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Downtown Mykonos is the most picturesque urban landscape on the island and is suited for the active traveler, those seeking culture, shopaholics, and art lovers.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash /Feel Greece

Psarou

Psarou is a gorgeous beach and a great destination choice for couples, families, and beach lovers alike. You’ll find a good choice of hotels as well as restaurants and regular bus links to Mykonos Town. Psarou is situated on a secluded bay and is one of the most exclusive corners of Mykonos. 

Platys Gialos: The Best of Both Worlds 

Platys Gialos is one of the most popular beaches on Mykonos. It’s set away from the Old Port and attracts beach-loving visitors from all over the world. Platys Gialos gets a good amount of sun and is never too breezy. There are also several other smaller beaches in the area for those who want a quieter time and a bit more solitude. These include Agia Anna and Cavo Psarou.

To Sum Up

Where you stay on Mykonos will largely determine what kind of vacation you will have. If you’re someone who craves being right in the action, where there’s the most activity, buzz, and things to do, then staying in the main town will be your best bet. Here you’ll find the most bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

If you crave a bit more relaxed pace, then you can consider staying in any number of the outlying beaches or smaller towns. For the best of both worlds, consider somewhere such as Platys Gialos which offers fast and regular connections to the main town.

LEARN ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR PET WITH THIS GUIDE

If you have a pet, you likely want to know absolutely everything you can about them. Unfortunately, that’s not always an easy thing to find out, particularly if you have a rescue. You can always ask your dog, of course, but somehow the mystery seems to remain. It’s honestly a little strange to think about the fact that they’re part of our families, yet we are often in the dark on such things like their ancestry, history, genetic predispositions, etc. Luckily, dog DNA tests have been on the rise and are getting increasingly more detailed and more accurate with each passing year. Here are some of the things you might be curious to learn about your pet and how a DNA test might just be the way to go about it. 

Breed

For those of you with mixed-breed dogs, it’s always a big question as to what kind of dog you actually have. You might be asked regularly by curious strangers or you might need to list their breeds for something like travel or housing, but whatever the reason, it's definitely a useful thing to know. At some point, you’ve likely researched it, asked your vet, etc. but there’s really no substitute for unquestionably knowing what breed or breeds your dog is. Knowing the specifics is not only extremely useful for vets to use for potential diagnoses, there are many additional characteristics that align with specific breeds, which might be extremely useful for things like training or rewarding your pet. 

Having a breakdown of your pet’s breed composition gives you an abundance of information about their physical traits. Things like the type of coat they're likely to have and how you can best care for it, whether or not they’re prone to things like shedding, overheating, snoring, etc. are just a few of the many details that are hidden in their genetics. Of course, it’s not only physical traits that can be identified. Certain breeds were bred for specific behaviors as well, and with a DNA test confirmation, you can use this knowledge to help provide a more attuned lifestyle for your pup. Questions ranging from how much exercise they should be getting to what is their preferred method of motivation can all be traced back to breeding. 

Health 

Another huge advantage to pet DNA tests is their ability to share pertinent health information about your precious fur-babies. In addition to verifying common breed conditions (like allergies, asthma, etc.), the information gleaned from your pet’s DNA can indicate other potential health risks as well, such as genetic disorders and certain predispositions. Of course, as this technology is still advancing, everything must be taken with a grain of salt (susceptibility does not necessarily mean inevitability), but it can still be a very useful tool in the early detection of some prevalent canine illnesses, particularly those associated with specific mutant genes. 

Additionally, newer DNA tests also offer features like “age tests” and “relative matches”. With your dog’s DNA there are definitive methods that allow for a fairly accurate age evaluation of your furry little friend, which, of course, is also quite a valuable piece of information to have when making decisions about their health, diet, etc. If your pet has had puppies or was part of a litter themselves, they might also be able to reunite with their relatives, so long as owners on all sides perform the same tests and agree to be in the company’s database. Can you imagine how adorable a long-lost dog-family reunion would be? 

Additional Benefits

There are other benefits to these tests as well, one of which is being a part of the funding efforts for further pet DNA research and testing. Genetic testing takes a lot of time and money (whether it’s for humans or animals), and if we want to extend the most cutting-edge research to include aspects that might help our canine companions, we have to put our money where our mouths are, so to say. The higher the demand for products like these, the more research and development will go into them. It’s one small way we can do our part to ensure that there are resources and methodologies in place to potentially save someone’s beloved pet. 

And finally, another amazing bonus with pet DNA tests is that they are simply a fun way to learn more about one of your best friends. You get to spend some quality time with your pup, which is likely their favorite part, so make your guesses, get the whole family involved, and find out whatever you can about your furry friend while you can!

WHY YOU SHOULD SUPPORT YOUR WORKOUT WITH SUPPLEMENTS

If you are serious about improving your workout results, taking some supplements can really help. Different supplements help in different ways though, so it is important you know which ones to take and how they can support your workout routine.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay/Scott Webb

Beta-alanine Can Increase Muscle Endurance and Lower Muscle Fatigue

Whether you lift weights or cycle, taking a beta-alanine supplement can help you to improve your strength. It is an effective supplementation for increasing carnosine levels, which leads to improved lactic acid buffering. When your workout gets intense, lactic acid accumulates in your muscles and lowers their pH. The beta alanine effects help to support muscular endurance and fight muscle fatigue. Also, if you are bodybuilding, beta-alanine supplements can help you get more reps with a certain weight. There have been several studies on the effects of beta-alanine. Most suggest that a daily dose of between 4 g and 6 g of the supplement for a period of at least two to four weeks can improve workout performance. If you are performing high-intensity activities of any kind as part of your regular workout routine, you should consider using beta-alanine supplementation.

Creatine Can Make You Stronger

While you should not expect immediate miracles, creatine supplementation can make you between 5% and 20% stronger in your workout sessions. Creatine allows you to gain more muscle and lose weight. There are lots of different types of creatine supplements on the market. The best and most proven to work is creatine monohydrate. It is best to take creatine first thing in the morning or after you work out. That is because those are the times when your body is deprived of nutrients the most and therefore your body becomes more receptive to the creatine supplement. The amount of creatine you should take depends on your weight, but you should aim for between 3 g and 8 g per day. If you weigh more than 200 lbs, go for the higher amount. If you do not weigh much, stick to 3 or 4 g per day. You should start noticing results within three to four weeks. However, a few people are not responsive to creatine at all. If you are a non-responder, you will know it after using creatine for a couple of weeks. On the other hand, if you are seeing progress in your strength in the first few weeks after you start taking creatine supplementation, you will know it is working.

Intensify Your Workouts with Pre-workout Supplements

There are various types of pre-workout supplements available. They can intensify your workouts and help you to gain more muscle. The key ingredient in all pre-workout supplements is caffeine. The supplements also often contain whey protein, carbs, and water. Begin by taking small doses to evaluate your tolerance and then increase as necessary. Always follow the instructions on the packaging of the exact pre-workout supplement you are taking, but most pre-workout supplements should be taken between fifteen and thirty minutes before you work out. 

Supplements Enable You to Improve Your Overall Health

It should now be clear why it is a good idea to support your workouts with the right supplements, but it is just as important to take supplements in combination with a cutting diet. As your body becomes stronger, you will need more nutrients to support your intensive workout routines, which is where supplements come in. Supplements not only help you to build muscle, gain strength, and intensify your workout routines. They can also help to increase the growth rate of lean tissue, improve your immune system, and make your skin look younger. That is because they contain minerals and trace elements. The right supplements can even help your digestion, metabolism, and blood pressure. So, start using supplements to support your workout today!

THE TOP 5 CITIES TO VISIT IN ITALY, RANKED

Italy has been one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for years on end. From its monumental contributions to the world of art, countless historical monuments, and delicious quality cuisine, it’s no wonder the boot-shaped country is many a tourist's favorite destination.

However, with so many things to see and do, it’s helpful for those traveling to Italy to have a list that narrows down the absolute best spots. And remember, there’s a reason the best are also often times labeled as “the most touristic”! Here are five Italian cities sure to knock your socks off.

#1 — Rome 

It’s no surprise that Rome tops this list. This legendary capital city is home to some of the world’s most prized historical treasures and even one important Wonder of the World, the Roman Colosseum. You’ll definitely want to have your camera on hand for a walk around Rome, as snapping pictures of these structures is a must.

The Eternal City is also popular for its identity in the arts, the resting place of numerous artistic masterpieces and sculptures such as Michelangelo’s The Pietà, Raphael’s Frescoes, and Bernini’s Appollo and Daphne just to name a few. Not to mention the Sistine Chapel that holds one of the most recognizable paintings on the planet, The Creation of Adam, can be found here. A visit to Rome means a tour of ancient architecture, jaw-dropping art works, delectable gelato, and so much more.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Kit Suman

Venice’s Grand Canal is jam-packed full of history and a host of vibrant colors 

#2 — Venice 

A place full of life, colors and canals, the City of Bridges is as romantic as it is historic. One gondola ride down Venice’s largest waterway, the Grand Canal, is all it takes to become completely enthralled with the beauty surrounding you. It’s also an easy way to sightsee, as all the city’s major landmarks are viewable from water taxi.

Some of these include Ca' Foscari, Doge’s Palace and Ca' da Mosto, the oldest building along the stretch of the canal which dates back to the early 13th century. Another notable structure that tourists are often interested in is the Casino di Venezia, the oldest casino in the world. This piece of history opened its doors in 1683 at a different location from where it resides today, but nowadays visitors can view its classy exterior from the comfort of their gondolas. No matter what you place at the top of your sightseeing list, one fact remains: you haven’t truly visited Italy until you can say you’ve been to Venice.

#3 — Naples

If you’re interested in eating your way through Italy, then Naples is undoubtedly the place to begin. Our number third spot on the list is a city that is not shy to show off its remarkable cuisine. Whether that’s through a Neapolitan pizza, Struggoli, Friarelli or a plentiful serving of ‘Pasta alla Genovese’, Naples is a foodies dream destination.

Besides being the proud founder of one of the world’s most beloved pizzas, the city is also home to different museums which are dedicated to Greek and Roman art. Additionally, natural wonders like the famous volcanic region, the Phlegrean Fields, and Nisida island just north of Naples make it a place where incredible outdoor exploration is possible and close by.

#4 — Amalfi 

The town of Amalfi can be found on the expanse of the Gulf of Salerno and is most famous for its picturesque views which merge cliffs and houses together alongside the bright blue waters. A prime Italian summer destination, the Amalfi Coast is an ideal spot for chartering a boat, hiking through the hills, or simply tanning seaside.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Tom Podmore

The Amalfi Coast is the perfect place for a relaxing boat trip around the Mediterranean

#5 — Turin 

Last but not least, Turin is a non-seaside city that should be just as high on your list as the others. Known for its breathtaking views of the Alps, this northern destination boasts in huge and elegant palazzos, a variety of castles, and of course, truffles. Turin is world-famous for its white truffle production as well as high-quality wines and cheeses. It’s traditional drink, Bicerin, is a delicious combination of espresso and chocolate topped with a healthy portion of whipped cream. Visitors can enjoy a hot cup of Bicerin while walking through one of the city’s gorgeous squares.

HOW AMERICANS CAN BEGIN FOLLOWING SOCCER

There is no shortage of homegrown sports to follow, but if you’re looking to liven things up a little, why not look at sports that are big across the world but pretty small in the United States? Soccer is slowly growing in popularity in the States, but it’s still pretty small potatoes compared to basketball, football, and baseball. Not that it should be! It’s no accident that soccer is the biggest sport in the world. After all, this is a game in which anything can happen, where underdogs can beat the sport’s powerhouses. Of course, unlike America’s leading sports, you’ll need to make an effort if you’re going to begin following soccer. It won’t happen automatically, on the basis that, in America, soccer is a sport that you have to seek out, rather than something that’ll come to you naturally.

In this blog, we’ll run through some of the best tips for getting into — and enjoying — the world’s most popular sport.

Tune In

The easiest way to get into any sport is to simply begin watching. Some of the world’s biggest leagues (including the English Premier League) are shown on US television — the only issue is that matches tend to kick off early in the morning due to the time difference. But what else will you be doing on a Saturday morning anyway? Get up early, make yourself a cup of coffee, and tune into a Premier League match. Many people consider England’s top division to be the most competitive league in the world, so you’ll be watching the best of the best. 

Understand the Game

The more you understand about soccer, the more you’ll enjoy watching games. While in the early days of following the sport, you may be happy to just understand the basics, at some point, you’ll want to step up. You’ll find that watching games is more fun after reading expert football tips, listening to tactically-insightful podcasts, and all-around deepening your soccer knowledge. Once you have, you’ll understand who the key players are, why some teams are better than others, and the history of the sport, which makes following the action all the more fun!

Find a Team

You can enjoy soccer as a neutral, but it’s better if you have a team to support. As with most sports, soccer is extremely tribal, and part of the enjoyment of the sport is embracing the rivalry that your side has with other clubs. In any case, watching the game is more interesting when you have a stake in the outcome, even if it’s just your emotional wellbeing! Most soccer fans choose a team based on their location or their family’s historic allegiance, but that’s unlikely to be an option. So you’ll need to decide another way! All clubs have an identity, so look at picking one that’s in line with your personality. But remember to choose wisely — once you pick your team, you have to stick with them for life! 

Local Fans

Most things are more enjoyable with other people by your side. No matter where you live, there’ll surely be other fans with whom you can connect and watch matches with. If you support one of the world’s biggest clubs and live in a reasonably big city, then check to see if there’s a supporter’s club in town. If there’s not, then locate a bar that shows soccer matches. After a few trips, you’ll likely recognize other fans of your team, so say hello — you already know that you’ve got something in common!

PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Philipp Brügger

Live Games

It’s all well and good watching a match on television, but it doesn’t compare with seeing a game live. Many of the world’s biggest clubs tour the United States before the domestic season gets underway, or you could watch the US men’s or women’s national team. Look out for when they’re coming to town (or at least a town not a million miles away), book your tickets, and enjoy seeing the world’s best players do their thing in the flesh. 

5 TIPS ON MATCHING JEWELRY WITH ATHLETIC WEAR

Athletic wear is clothes and equipment designed for playing sports and working out. But twenty-first-century fashionistas know that today's athletic wear is not just to get sweaty in. It's a casual look that you can wear to go shopping, out to lunch, or out on the town with friends. 

Wearing such clothing outside of exercising also means that it's perfectly acceptable to team it with jewelry! 

Here are 5 tips on matching jewelry with athletic wear.

1. Gold or Silver Ankle Bracelet with Yoga Pants and Gym Shoes

It's easy to notice a beautiful pair of earrings or a necklace.  However, when you wear ankle bracelets, you'll want them to get seen too.  Pairing a gold or silver ankle bracelet with yoga pants and a pair of cool gym shoes will do the trick.  

People love to notice the kind of shoes we wear. Fashionistas only go for name brands, such as Nike, Addidas, or Converse. When people see your cool shoes, they'll also notice your ankle bracelet. The jewelry adds a nice finishing touch!

2. Lightweight Necklace with Round Neck Tank Top and Athletic Shorts

Less is more when it comes to matching jewelry with athletic wear. Try a lightweight or dainty necklace with a round-neck tank top and athletic shorts.  Example? Try a gold necklace that displays your first name in cursive writing.

3. Hoop Earrings with a Tracksuit

The jacket and matching pants that make up a tracksuit have evolved from just being used to stay warm on the running track.  However, if you're going to wear it to go shopping, jazz it up with a pair of oversized hoop earrings. The look works whether you have long hair or short hair. 

4. Multiple Bracelets with a Tight T-shirt and Yoga Pants

Again less is more when it comes to wearing jewelry with athletic wear.  However, when it comes to bracelets, wear multiple bracelets (stacking) on one arm matched with a tight t-shirt and yoga pants. There are so many styles of multiple bracelets to choose from. Go with gold, silver and fabrics or less common like leather from well known names like John Hardy (they offer many different collections featuring leather).

When sporting multiple bracelets, no matter the style you choose, make sure the bracelets all go together. They will draw attention to themselves and jazz up the outfit, and you won't be overdoing it if you avoid all other jewelry!

5. Diamond Earrings with a Tennis Outfit

When you wear a tennis outfit, it looks like you're wearing a top and a skirt.  It looks cute and a bit more fancy than, say, a tracksuit.  (After all, many consider tennis to be a posh sport.) Dress up the outfit with a pair of diamond earrings.  They can be tiny diamond studs or something a bit bigger.

The bottom line when matching jewelry with athletic wear is to keep it simple.  Athletic wear has a specific style that is highly noticeable. You don't need to overpower it with heavy jewelry. The only exception is if you're going for a "rapper" urban look with heavy gold chains and heavy gold earrings mixed in with some noticeable diamonds. 

That's a specific style.  So unless that's the style you're going for, please keep it simple.

HOW COLLEGES CAN ENCOURAGE FITNESS AMONG STUDENTS

Student health is important, and prevention is a powerful tool in keeping students in good health. This means making access to medical care and good lifestyle habits easy and educating students about how to take better care of themselves. Encouraging fitness can be a big part of this. The tips below are all ways that colleges and universities can make sure that students have access to the information and resources they need to maintain or improve their fitness throughout the college years.

The Value of Telehealth

While balancing work and academics can be challenging for students, especially those who are out on their own for the first time, adding good health and fitness habits into the mix can make their lives even more challenging. You can review a guide about the ways that higher education can better support college student health concerns. Telehealth is an excellent way to make it easy for students to contact medical professionals with their questions and concerns without having to go out of their way to make an appointment and visit a clinic. This can help them take preliminary steps in pursuing a new fitness program as well.

Education

Providing information to students on the benefits of fitness and how they can pursue a more active lifestyle as part of freshman orientation can be helpful. Universities should keep in mind that students may be coming from a variety of backgrounds, from those who might have been athletes in high school to those who have been largely sedentary for years, and think about how messages about the importance of regular activity could be conveyed to this diverse population. Another challenge is demonstrating that fitness is beneficial and will make them feel more energetic and productive rather than making it seem like yet another item on a to-do list. Students may also need more general assistance with skills like setting realistic goals for improvement. There might even be programs in place where students can connect with staff or peers who can help them be more active.

Outdoor and Indoor Environment

While all schools are constrained by cost and real estate, making an effort to have friendlier outdoor environments can make a big difference. For example, large grassy areas provide a place for students to play informal games. Attractive places for people to run and dedicated bike lanes may also encourage more activity. A pool or a gym on campus can make it easy for students to get some exercise in without having to go off campus to do so. Schools should also give some consideration to how they could provide fitness opportunities for disabled students.

Clubs and Organizations

Colleges and universities should encourage and fund organizations for sports and activities that promote fitness. This should include not just traditional college sports teams but support of groups for things such as hiking, cycling, yoga, kayaking or any other number of activities. Providing these groups with space to meet and a budget can make a big difference in whether or not they are able to thrive.

TRAVELLING TO THE ALPS IN 2021

A lot of things have had to change course over the past twelve months – and holiday plans have most definitely fallen into this category.

The decision to close ski lifts across most of the continent over Christmas and beyond caused heartache for many ski enthusiasts and while the end is hopefully nigh, there are still plenty more hurdles to negotiate.

This is what we are going to cover through today’s post. We will now take a look at some of the key points that you need to contemplate, if you are planning a trip to the Alps over the course of the next few months.

Last minute decisions are off the cards

In an ideal world, we would all wait until the day of travel before reaching our decision. As it turns out, it doesn't quite work like this.

Unfortunately, 2021 is proving to be a hugely popular ski season. People who were forced to cancel their 2020 booking have been moved to this year, while others have got the itch and just decided to book and hope for the best.

Unfortunately, if you're planning to leave it until the last minute, you're likely to be disappointed. Even though the slopes have been closed, bookings have been high and demand is through the roof.

Don't travel for the après ski

As we all know, some people will hit the slopes for the après ski element - and will openly admit this.

However, following the events of the past year, this isn't necessarily a shrewd move to make. Sure, après ski will return one day, but 'when' is the question.

Some of the slopes that have remained open over the last few months have unsurprisingly not been able to open their bars and restaurants. As such, if this is usually a big factor of your holiday, it might be worth stepping back and questioning if this is now the right time to be going.

Or, you might also reconsider the type of resort that you are heading to. For example, if you are a beginner, this piste map of La Plagne will be right up your street with a combination of 79 green and blue slopes. If you are an advanced skier meanwhile, you will naturally be turning towards resorts which venture towards the red and black side.

In other words, you might have to strip your skiing holiday back to basics - and go to appreciate the mountains themselves.

Or, do you need to ski at all?

Following on from the previous point, you might ask if you even need to ski at all.

For most people, this question may sound ridiculous. However, others will appreciate the other activities that the Alps offers. It might be trekking, sledging or even just hanging out in the snow. With most of the ski lifts across the Alps being closed for the season, these activities have proven to be extremely popular with visitors to the region over recent months.

THE BIGGEST FITNESS MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE

It’s great that you’re upping your fitness game and getting into working out more. But if you want to stay motivated and see results, it’s crucial you don’t make any of the following mistakes.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Jonathan Borba

Not Putting a Plan Together 

One of the biggest mistakes people make is hoping they’ll improve their fitness without thinking about the specifics they want to improve. Some workouts are better for cardio while others are better for gaining muscle. So, you need to set goals if you want to see tangible improvements. Setting goals is part of the wider recommendation of creating a plan. Once you know what areas of your body and fitness you want to focus on and what steps you need to take to achieve your set goals, you can purposefully and accurately work towards achieving your aims. That doesn’t just include workout goals. To maintain your optimum level of fitness, you also need to pay attention to your diet. To achieve your goals, you’ll need to calculate how many calories and macros you’re putting into your system and burning. The best way of doing that is to use a calorie and macronutrient calculator that computes your individual macro and caloric input based on your personal information, lifestyle habits, diet, and so on. When you have a plan in place, it will be much easier to track your progress and challenge yourself to develop further.

Working Out Too Much Too Soon

Are you one of those people who has suddenly thrown yourself into working out and are now pushing yourself more and more every single day? If so, you may be feeling proud that you’ve traded couch and cookies for exercise. While you should indeed be proud of yourself, there’s a problem if you have hit working out like a bull in a china shop. That’s because doing too much exercise too quickly can lead to injuries. But not only that. It can also soon turn into boredom and a lack of motivation, which in turn can lead back to couch and cookie land. So, don’t make the mistake of doing too much too soon. Focus on doing what’s right for your body and level of fitness.

Not Pushing Yourself Enough

On the flip side of the last point, many people make the mistake of not pushing themselves enough. While we have seen how doing too much exercise too soon is the wrong approach, it’s just as important that you commit to working out and exercise regularly. If you want abs to die for but only spend twenty minutes in the gym and don’t work up a sweat, you’ll never achieve your goals. It’s okay to take some time out. The important thing is setting that plan in place and sticking to it. You can then ensure you do the right amount of exercise to achieve your fitness goals. At the end of the day, hard work brings results. So, push yourself.

Working Out Incorrectly

You not only have to ensure you work out regularly as per your plan. You also need to make sure that you work out correctly. If you perform exercises in the wrong way or lift more than you should, it could quickly result in injury. Too many people make the mistake of not educating themselves on how to perform specific exercises and how many reps and weights they should be doing. So, make sure you get your technique right when exercising and using gym equipment. You can read online guides, watch online videos, or get advice from a professional or your local gym. Once you know how to do exercises correctly, you will see your fitness level rise up in no time, as long as you don’t make the other mistakes listed above.