Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
4 Ways to Boost Sexual Compatibility
You'd never guess that my client Lydia—who is beautiful, smart and funny—wasn't having sex as often as she'd like. Her husband, Harry, thought once a week was plenty, but Lydia wanted to do it every day. While she'd always been a little more hot to trot than he was, the gap—and ensuing tension—had only increased. "Don't men usually demand sex all the time?" she asked. "What's wrong with me?"
Julia had the opposite problem. She and Stuart had felt sexually compatible from the start, but with three children under 7, Julia had gone from being "slightly less aggressive" to far more interested in sleeping than making love. By the time they came to see me, Stuart and Julia hadn't done the deed in three months.
It's natural to fall a little out of step with your partner after you've been together for a while. Maybe—as in that famous scene from Annie Hall—the amount of sex you're having feels like a ton to you and nothing to him. Perhaps one of you wants to try something that the other isn't into, or suddenly it seems like there's nothing he can do to turn you on.
Related: 15 Everyday Habits to Boost Your Libido
Here's a bit of biology: When you fall in love, your body releases the pleasure neurotransmitter dopamine. You're flying so high that attraction feels effortless, and since you want to please your new partner, it's fun to try new things out with him. But eventually your dopamine output dips to more normal levels as familiarity and friendship develop between the two of you over time. While these are very lovely qualities to have in a relationship, they can be directly at odds with desire.
Sometimes being out of sync is simply about being too damn busy for sex (like if one of you is returning home late from work and the other is crashing early) or about one person becoming the only instigator. Or you just experienced a hiccup (such as taking a break from romance after your kid was born) that grew into a bad habit. Whatever the reason, you've entered the Sexual Frustration Zone. Luckily, there's a way out.
1. Don't settle for just so-so
You might say to yourself, Sex isn't that important as long as we get along. But as I've seen in my practice, that's the case only when both members truly have zero interest in sex, which is fairly rare. What happens much more often is that one person says, "I'm fine with not having sex!" while the other person is not fine with it. At all. It's a situation that can actually lead to the demise of a relationship, even one that's strong in every other department, because the more in tune you are sexually, the more tools you have as a couple to right your ship during tough times—whether you're facing health scares, money woes or family drama.
Related: Best and Worst Foods for Sex
2. Steal alone time
I can't emphasize this one enough! I know—it seems impossible. It's so worth it, though, to get a sitter—once a week, if you can—and have some relaxed fun with each other outside the bedroom to get those dopamine levels back up. This is the ideal time to raise the idea of trying new things, whether it's having sex somewhere besides the bedroom or upping the romance factor. Most men want to please, but they aren't mind readers, so be clear: "I'd like you to help me get the kids in bed so I have energy to rock your world afterward."
3. Check in with your MD
If you and your partner are still a little off-kilter in the intimacy department, there may be a medical issue—it could be anything from depression to diabetes or even heart disease—that's to blame. Taking medications such as (ironically) antidepressants can also blunt sex drive. And while a dip in testosterone levels is normal for men as they age, a big hormonal drop can lead to a loss of libido.
Related: 20 Weird Facts About Sex and Love
4. Talk it out
Maybe after trying all that, you just can't seem to get in the mood when he is. Or your ideas of fun still don't mesh: Do you looove foreplay while he always jumps straight into the main event? It never hurts to ask for help from a pro. Yes, opening up about your sexual frustrations can be hard, especially to a stranger. But a certified sex therapist can give you assignments designed to tackle the specific issues you two are having. She might suggest giving each other a massage with instructions not to have sex, for instance, to take away any pressure. Even chatting with a couples therapist can help you understand what's really at play. You may need only a few sessions to get back in step—both in the bedroom and out of it.
Julia had the opposite problem. She and Stuart had felt sexually compatible from the start, but with three children under 7, Julia had gone from being "slightly less aggressive" to far more interested in sleeping than making love. By the time they came to see me, Stuart and Julia hadn't done the deed in three months.
It's natural to fall a little out of step with your partner after you've been together for a while. Maybe—as in that famous scene from Annie Hall—the amount of sex you're having feels like a ton to you and nothing to him. Perhaps one of you wants to try something that the other isn't into, or suddenly it seems like there's nothing he can do to turn you on.
Related: 15 Everyday Habits to Boost Your Libido
Here's a bit of biology: When you fall in love, your body releases the pleasure neurotransmitter dopamine. You're flying so high that attraction feels effortless, and since you want to please your new partner, it's fun to try new things out with him. But eventually your dopamine output dips to more normal levels as familiarity and friendship develop between the two of you over time. While these are very lovely qualities to have in a relationship, they can be directly at odds with desire.
Sometimes being out of sync is simply about being too damn busy for sex (like if one of you is returning home late from work and the other is crashing early) or about one person becoming the only instigator. Or you just experienced a hiccup (such as taking a break from romance after your kid was born) that grew into a bad habit. Whatever the reason, you've entered the Sexual Frustration Zone. Luckily, there's a way out.
1. Don't settle for just so-so
You might say to yourself, Sex isn't that important as long as we get along. But as I've seen in my practice, that's the case only when both members truly have zero interest in sex, which is fairly rare. What happens much more often is that one person says, "I'm fine with not having sex!" while the other person is not fine with it. At all. It's a situation that can actually lead to the demise of a relationship, even one that's strong in every other department, because the more in tune you are sexually, the more tools you have as a couple to right your ship during tough times—whether you're facing health scares, money woes or family drama.
Related: Best and Worst Foods for Sex
2. Steal alone time
I can't emphasize this one enough! I know—it seems impossible. It's so worth it, though, to get a sitter—once a week, if you can—and have some relaxed fun with each other outside the bedroom to get those dopamine levels back up. This is the ideal time to raise the idea of trying new things, whether it's having sex somewhere besides the bedroom or upping the romance factor. Most men want to please, but they aren't mind readers, so be clear: "I'd like you to help me get the kids in bed so I have energy to rock your world afterward."
3. Check in with your MD
If you and your partner are still a little off-kilter in the intimacy department, there may be a medical issue—it could be anything from depression to diabetes or even heart disease—that's to blame. Taking medications such as (ironically) antidepressants can also blunt sex drive. And while a dip in testosterone levels is normal for men as they age, a big hormonal drop can lead to a loss of libido.
Related: 20 Weird Facts About Sex and Love
4. Talk it out
Maybe after trying all that, you just can't seem to get in the mood when he is. Or your ideas of fun still don't mesh: Do you looove foreplay while he always jumps straight into the main event? It never hurts to ask for help from a pro. Yes, opening up about your sexual frustrations can be hard, especially to a stranger. But a certified sex therapist can give you assignments designed to tackle the specific issues you two are having. She might suggest giving each other a massage with instructions not to have sex, for instance, to take away any pressure. Even chatting with a couples therapist can help you understand what's really at play. You may need only a few sessions to get back in step—both in the bedroom and out of it.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
The Best Running Shoe For Every Foot
The latest kicks offer perks ranging from motion control to zero drop.
Dr. Oz Answers Lawmakers on Weight Loss Tips
Lawmakers warned TV personality Dr. Mehmet Oz to proceed with caution when offering weight-loss tips at a hearing on deceptive advertising for weight-loss products. Watch the video from Time.com to learn more.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
A Fat-Melting Workout From Maria Menounos
Crunched for time but still want to squeeze in a sweat session? In this video, Maria Menounos, author of Every Girl's Guide to Diet and Fitness , shows you how to do a speedy, 7-move exercise routine. Do this circuit two to three times to get a great workout in less than 20 minutes.
How to Do Dumbbell Squats
For strong, lean legs, go beyond a simple squat and try using weights. In this video, Maria Menounos, author of Every Girl's Guide to Diet and Fitness , shows you how to use dumbbells for extra resistance so you can really feel the burn. Aim for 25 reps of this killer leg exercise.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do Deadlifts
Deadlifts are ideal for strengthening muscles in your torso, hips, and legs. Remember to keep your knees slightly bent! Watch the video to see Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet & Fitness demonstrate how to do this move.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do an Overhead Press
Watch this video to see Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet and Fitness, do an overhead press. This move is a great way to tone your arms and shoulders. Just remember to engage your core to keep your back straight.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do a Standing Posture Curl
Work your arms and core with this move from Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet and Fitness. You'll use dumbbells to do 30 reps back-to-back. Whew! Watch the video to learn this spin on the classic bicep curl.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do a Close-Grip Tricep Press
Get your arms burning with this exercise from Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet and Fitness. Watch the video to see how this move will tone your triceps.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do the Leg Drop Workout Move
To get the rock-hard abs you've always wanted, try this exercise from Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet and Fitness. Watch the video to learn how to get the most out of this core move.
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' next workout move
See the full workout
How to Do a Crunch to Boat Pose
For toned, taut abs, try this move from Maria Menounos, author of The EveryGirl's Guide to Diet and Fitness. Watch the video to learn how to this hybrid of the standard crunch and boat pose.
See Maria Menounos' first workout move
See the full workout
See Maria Menounos' first workout move
See the full workout
Weight Loss Before-And-After: Lean And Loving Life
When I moved into my first apartment on my own in 2008, I was in a terrible place emotionally. Unhappy with my body and my life, I turned to food, numbing myself with frequent Taco Bell binges, the ever-present stockpile of cheesy snacks in my pantry and calorie-dense cocktails. By July 2011, my weight had ballooned to an unbelievable 318 pounds, and I had grown more miserable than ever. At one point, my stepmom was so concerned that she treated me to a salon day to try to snap me out of my funk. After being pampered for hours, I realized how much I missed taking care of myself. That's when I decided it was finally time to get serious about slimming down.
Bye-bye, fake food
Within a month, I joined my local weight-loss center. When I reviewed the first week's meal plan, I was pleasantly surprised: The three meals and two snacks a day offered me more real food for far fewer calories than I was used to. And because there were filling options, like spinach quiche and chicken stir-fry, I never felt hungry. I began to eat clean and almost immediately lost 18 pounds, and the heartburn that had plagued me since my teens disappeared.
Hello, happier me
I quickly found my way around the kitchen, and two months later I had knocked off another 32 pounds. My energy level soared: While I had once been a slave to the snooze button, I started waking up at 5:20 each morning, excited to start the day. And I was more active, taking two- to three-mile walks around my neighborhood. Slowly but steadily, the pounds melted away.
By June 2013, almost two years after starting my transformation, I had dropped more than half my weight; I was down to 150 pounds. In the year since, my daily walks have transitioned into runs, and I even completed my first half marathon. There was a time when the notion of running was laughable to me, but after coming so far, I finally feel like my life has no limits.
Her Stay-Slim Tool Kit
For Leigh, healthy living is about the details. Find out what keeps her going forward, and score more tested tips on Pinterest.
Sweet Escape:
When I crave something a little indulgent, I have a South Beach Diet whipped peanut butter bar—it tastes almost exactly like fudge. At 100 calories, it's a perfect midmorning or afternoon treat.
Magic Kicks:
My boyfriend got me Brooks PureConnect 3 running shoes. They're so light, I feel like they give me wings!
Up Running Song:
I have "Happy" by Pharrell Williams on my workout playlist. When it comes on around mile six, I feel like I'm in total butt-kicking mode and can't help running down the street clapping, smiling and lip-synching.
Throwback Toner:
Hula-Hooping is a favorite. It's fun and never feels like exercise. I keep one in my yard for when I get the urge to move!
RELATED: 13 Women Who've Lost 100+ Pounds
Bye-bye, fake food
Within a month, I joined my local weight-loss center. When I reviewed the first week's meal plan, I was pleasantly surprised: The three meals and two snacks a day offered me more real food for far fewer calories than I was used to. And because there were filling options, like spinach quiche and chicken stir-fry, I never felt hungry. I began to eat clean and almost immediately lost 18 pounds, and the heartburn that had plagued me since my teens disappeared.
Hello, happier me
I quickly found my way around the kitchen, and two months later I had knocked off another 32 pounds. My energy level soared: While I had once been a slave to the snooze button, I started waking up at 5:20 each morning, excited to start the day. And I was more active, taking two- to three-mile walks around my neighborhood. Slowly but steadily, the pounds melted away.
By June 2013, almost two years after starting my transformation, I had dropped more than half my weight; I was down to 150 pounds. In the year since, my daily walks have transitioned into runs, and I even completed my first half marathon. There was a time when the notion of running was laughable to me, but after coming so far, I finally feel like my life has no limits.
Her Stay-Slim Tool Kit
For Leigh, healthy living is about the details. Find out what keeps her going forward, and score more tested tips on Pinterest.
Sweet Escape:
When I crave something a little indulgent, I have a South Beach Diet whipped peanut butter bar—it tastes almost exactly like fudge. At 100 calories, it's a perfect midmorning or afternoon treat.
Magic Kicks:
My boyfriend got me Brooks PureConnect 3 running shoes. They're so light, I feel like they give me wings!
Up Running Song:
I have "Happy" by Pharrell Williams on my workout playlist. When it comes on around mile six, I feel like I'm in total butt-kicking mode and can't help running down the street clapping, smiling and lip-synching.
Throwback Toner:
Hula-Hooping is a favorite. It's fun and never feels like exercise. I keep one in my yard for when I get the urge to move!
RELATED: 13 Women Who've Lost 100+ Pounds
Monday, June 16, 2014
Pippa Middleton Kicks Off 3,000-Mile Charity Bike Ride
Pippa Middleton and her brother James started a 3,000-mile, 12-state bike ride in San Diego, California, for Race Across America. The event benefits the British Heart Foundation, of which Pippa is an ambassador. Watch the video from Time.com to learn more.
How to Do a Perfect Sun Salutation
What is a sun salutation? It's a series of yoga poses done in a flowing sequence, often first thing in the morning. They improve flexibility and help increase focus, and they're perfect for warming up your muscles before a workout (or at the start of the day). In this video, Kristin McGee shows you how to do a sun salutation.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Ask these key questions to get more out of your health care provider.
Yoga for an Achy Neck and Back
Get major relief from neck and back pain by doing these yoga moves that help ease muscle tension. In this video, yoga and Pilates expert Kristin McGee demonstrates the Rabbit and Mermaid pose.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
12 Foods That Control Your Appetite
Stop counting down the minutes until your next meal. Fill up on these filling foods and say goodbye to unneeded calories.
Monday, June 9, 2014
How to Do Crow Pose
Afraid of landing flat on your face while attempting crow pose? You can conquer this intimidating move with baby steps. In this video, yoga and Pilates expert Kristin McGee gives you step-by-step instructions on how to do the perfect crow pose. Bonus: You're working your arms just by trying!
Friday, June 6, 2014
3 Stress-Busting Yoga Poses
Ditch the tension in your head, neck, and shoulders with these three moves that boost focus and concentration while working your core. Watch the video to see yoga and Pilates expert Kristin McGee demonstrate how to do Eagle, Warrior III, and Standing Straddle Forward Bend.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
5 Plank Variations You Need to Try
Planks are one of the most effective moves to strengthen your abs. Switch things up with these variations that target other muscles, too. In this video, expert Kristin McGee shows you 5 new ways to challenge yourself with planks.
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