A NIGHT AT THE CASINO LIKE NO OTHER

An evening at the casino, playing games like Blackjack, Baccarat and Roulette, has always been viewed as a luxurious and exciting pastime, one reserved for the rich and famous.

That is no longer the case, of course. A casino visit is now within the reach of most and while the popularity may have grown, the feeling of exclusivity and elegance certainly hasn’t waned. 

Source: Pexels

Major providers are expanding

Online casino play has also spiked in recent years. The top casino websites and mobile apps allow players to enjoy a night at the casino without leaving their own home. They bring the top slots, table, live and video games into your home. No need to purchase a new outfit and catch a cab into town, simply download the casino app and spin away.

Increased levels of interest and a desire to play casino games online has caught the attention of major bookmakers and programmers around the world, as you would expect. The status of the online casino industry means a flood of new sites have now entered the market.

That’s great news for players as they now have more choice than before. Competition for your custom is fierce and that results in an increasing number of special offers, bonuses and deals, each designed to have you choose one online casino over the competition. When choosing an online casino website or app to bet with you should look for one offering a generous welcome bonus to new customers.

When you want, where you want

When playing online casino you can bet on video slots, jackpot slots or table games, either on your desktop computer or mobile app. The latter allows players to gamble where they want, where they want and on what they want. The customer is now in complete control of their betting experience and that has paved the way for increased levels of interest.

Those after a bit more realism can play live casino. This service offers all your favourite casino table games played through a live video feed against real players with real dealers. It's as close as you'll get to a casino trip without leaving the comfort of your own home. The future has landed and the online casino betting industry puts customers at the cutting edge of change.

Source: Unsplash

A modern twist on the classics

The top online casino sites offer over 100 slots games as well as all traditional table games. There is also a modern twist on the classics, designed to attract a new age of casino player. Live casino is the closest a player will get to taking a chance at the casino without leaving their home. These games are played through a live feed with real life dealers, against real life opponents. The physical actions made by the dealer are converted to data that can be utilized via optical character recognition technology.

It can be accessed through a mobile site or app on an android or iOS device. This means players can enjoy.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFESTYLE IN A WEEK

The top priority for most people is to lead the lifestyle they desire. In order to achieve that you have to be determined to incorporate small changes into your everyday routine. Initially, all of this sounds rather easy, but the reality is different. Sometimes we struggle to find the right motivation that will push us in the right direction, and sometimes we are just lazy. And all of this is okay, in the end, we have to remember not to be so harsh on ourselves. By realizing these things you are opening up to changes, but keep in mind that changing every single thing about you and your lifestyle is not really possible.

What you can do instead is take this approach where you will acknowledge the things you want to improve, set achievable goals, and work hard to accomplish them. Follow this simple guide and let it show you what you can do to improve your lifestyle and see actual results within one week. 

Think Outside Your Comfort Zone

You are already familiar with the combination of the two well-known phrases in the heading and if you have guessed that it refers to doing things that you have never done before, then you are correct. We all have a list of things we always wanted to do stored somewhere at the back of our head, well now is the perfect time to start checking off the things.

One of the most popular activities is gambling, as it portrays this fancy and luxurious way of enjoyment. With modern technology now you have the chance to test your luck and play some of the classic casino games from the comfort of your home. The online gambling platform novicasino.com offers you a vast selection of casino games that will provide you with an exciting experience.

Doing these sorts of activities that push you from your comfort zone will help you build the missing confidence and improve the outlook on your life.

Do Not Be Afraid to Spend Some Money

The issue of finances is quite a sensitive matter, but one thing is certain you need to be able to relax and enjoy your life. Reward yourself for every goal you achieve and you will instantly feel better. You are working really hard and you deserve the right appreciation no matter in what form it comes. Set your limitations, form short and long-term goals, and work hard so that you live guilt-free.

Exclude the Habit of Making Excuses

Letting go of old habits can be really challenging but it is not impossible. Focusing your attention on a new set of habits that will help you improve your life is the thing you should strive to achieve. Deciding to stop looking for excuses will create you an easier path to happiness filled with crazy and exciting opportunities.

So, if you feel like you want to incorporate some kind of change into your life, think about these easy steps, do them continuously, and the results will be there. 

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

WORK FROM HOME TIPS WE CAN ALL USE WHEN VIDEO CONFERENCING

A number of weeks have passed since we have been Working From Home due to COVID-19 and as we continue we’re all learing tips and tricks to get through this. We connected with Christina Janzer, Head of User Research at Slack to talk about how we can work from home, stay connected with colleagues and partners, what to do about video conferencing while at home and more. You can figure out what works well by checking out Slack’s Remote tips as we continue navigating this part of our lives.

ATHLEISURE MAG: For those who are used to working outside of their homes and those that have flexible workspaces where they work from home, have a number of meetings in other places, go to events etc - being homebound definitely has their challenges for these groups, what can we do to get into a mindset of home spaces versus work spaces?

CHRISTINA JANZER: That’s a great question and I think that you touched on it a bit. It’s really important to at first, establish a routine so that you can maintain your work-life balance. So the main thing is to do the little things like getting dressed in the morning just like you would do when you’re going to work. Figuring out a dedicated work area that’s in your home so that you can be the most productive to get work done. I think that anything that you can do like that, can go a very long way. You also want to make sure that you take breaks throughout the day and making sure that you have a set time that you start work as well as when you end work. It’s important to have that balance as I see peopel who work straight through from the time to get up to the time that they go to bed because they don’t have that me time which is so important. That’s the first thing that I would tell people so that I can have that separation.

AM: What should people do when it comes to not having face-to-face interactions with co-workers or others that you are used to being with in your day?

CJ: When you’re in an office you have that hub of activity, but when you’re remote, people feel like they’re out of the loop and disconnected - ultimately, they feel less engaged. It’s important to create that space whether it’s quick interaction or ways to get that interaction. I think that managers play a huge role in this way whether they’re doing 1-on-1 check-ins to direct reports over video. Over video, there are lots of great video conference solutions that enable that face-to-face interaction that happens so easily in this medium. There’s Zoom, we have Slack Calls - these are great ways to keep that going and to have that space to do so. Erring on the side of communicating and over-communicating -make sure that you’re really clear on what you’re working on and what you’re looking for in your projects. This way you will get the support and help that you need from your colleagues.

The face-to-face interaction helps with the actual work, but I think that it also helps for when you feel like you’re missing on the communal aspects and the water cooler moments. It allows for those informal moments as well that takes place. What we’ve done is that we have created channels in Slack that are social in nature. So we’ll post silly things that are happening throughout the day, what people are eating for lunch, books that they’re reading and what TV shows that they are watching. The other day, we did the push up contest - so it was great to create social ways that we can still stay connected and it’s just as important.

AM: We love using Slack for a number of things from the project aspect as well as having an area to play catch-up. When we were on sets, we could share some #BTS content for those that were back at the office so they still felt that they were in the loop even though they weren’t there.

CJ: The team morale aspect of it is so important. It’s not just about helping people feel good and to have social connections, but it also leads to increased productivity and great team work. Not taking that stuff for granted is so important. We’re planning a virtual game night with my team and I think that that will allow people to have that social connection that they also need with one another.

AM: That’s such a great use and on that point, does Slack have a video component within the platform that can be used?

CJ: Yeah absolutely. We have Slack Calls and you can do both video and audio. We also have a really great integration with Zoom, another video conferencing service out there. There are a lot of great options out there that can be used. With us being home for the last 4 weeks, I have really relied on video to stay connected with my team. It’s not the same as being next to them, but it’s very close.

AM: What tips do you have as we all know or have seen video with kids running into view, dogs barking or various backgrounds. What tips do you have in order to make the best video conference meetings that we can to manage our new envirnoments?

CJ: I’ve been in that situation many times as I have 3 little kids at home! I think we all need to be open about the fact that we are in these challenging situations right now. I encourage my team not to hide those things. When they have their kid around, I ask them to bring them into the camera and to introduce them - whatever we can do to normalize the chaos that we are all living in. It just makes people much more comfortable in this situation because we’re all in this together and it’s not unique to any one person.

But I think that there are also other things to consider in terms of making sure that you have as much of a schedule as possible. If there is a really important meeting where your kids are going to be disruptive, whatever you can do to move it around your schedule to work for you is important. My husband and I have a strict calendar so I’m on kid duty for these hours and work duties on other hours. He also has the same. There isn’t an exact solution, but you have to take the time to try to figure it out because this is no longer a sprint, it’s a marathon. We all just have to figure it out.

AM: In this time where many of us are working from home, some were caught having to turn their spaces into a workplace. Some companies may opt to allow working from home even after this quarantine passes and just in case we may find ourselves coming back to this again due to future waves, what kind of a checklist should we have so that we can build the best office for ourselves?

CJ: I think every individual is different, we all have different space needs. If you have a dedicated room to make an office - that’s amazing. If you don’t, do what you can do to make your space the most productive as possible. For me, I put in a standing desk so I can stand throughout the day and not be seated all day. It’s also important to carve out portions of your time for little rituals like breaks to take a walk and to make sure that you’re getting outside whenever possible. Everyone is different, but let’s just assume that this is going to be happening for awhile and it’s a marathon and not a sprint. We need to prioritize everyone as well as what I need and we need to be transparent about that. By doing this, we will be able to get through this together.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRUCK HITCHES

Looking for the official guide to different types of truck hitches? If so, we've got you covered. Take a look at what you should know here!

Whether you're hauling a truck or a trailer, there is a variety of hitches that will help you move your heavy load.

However, this will all depend on your selection prowess and getting the right type of hitch and its class that best suits your needs as well as fit your vehicle.

If you're dipping your toes into the trailer life or even looking for the right hitch for your truck, we've got it covered.

Keep on reading for a full breakdown of the different types of truck hitches, as well as a quick definition of what exactly is a trailer/truck hitch in the first place.

Truck Hitches: The Definition

Both known as a trailer or truck hitch, it's a device that allows you to tow another vehicle. It basically attaches the chassis of a vehicle to another.

Hitches come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Yet, all have the same mechanism, a tow ball, a tow pin, or a towing Pintle, to allow the articulation and swiveling movements of a trailer or a truck.

Moreover, the foundational breakdown of trailer hitches classification is whether a hitch is weight carrying or weight distributing. In addition, trailer hitches can be categorized by their weight capacities, also known as "classes."

Weight Carrying Versus Weight Distributing

As we mentioned earlier, the main distinction between hitch types are the weight carrying hitches versus the weight distributing ones.

Weight carrying hitches are the most common and popular type of hitches on the market. They work by bearing the trailer's tongue weight on the end (or rear) of the towing vehicle.

Usually, these hitches are enough to tow small and medium-sized trailers.

On the other hand, we have weight distributing hitches. These are more commonly used for heavier trailers and trucks because they work by evenly distributing the trailer's weight amongst the wheels of the trailer and the towing vehicle.

Types of Hitches: The Weight Carrying Edition

For the majority of trailers and trucks, you can select a weight carrying hitch, preferably a B&W hitch for their great quality, and you're set. However, the question is: which type?

There are mainly six types of hitches, so let's take them one at a time.

Receiver Hitches

A rear receiver hitch is the most common type of trailer hitch. In short, it's a square receiver tube that you can use to mount a variety of components and accessories.

Furthermore, you'll find that most heavy-duty trucks already have a preinstalled standard receiver hitch in the rear. It's that common.

In addition, receiver hitches are further broken down into five classes according to the maximum weight they can safely tow.

• Class I: Gross trailer weight of up to 2,000 lbs

• Class II: Gross trailer weight of up to 3,500 lbs

• Class III: Gross trailer weight from 3,500 lbs to 6,000 lbs

• Class IV: Gross trailer weight from 6,000 lbs to 10,000 lbs

• Class V: Gross trailer weight over 10,000 lbs

Of course, as the highest class of hitches, class V, are usually installed on heavy-duty commercial trucks. They're needed to tow heavy loads like large boats, full-sized campers, and even construction equipment.

Bumper-Mounted Hitch

It's exactly what it sounds like. This type of hitch is mounted to the bumper of your vehicle instead of the frame. It gives you a bit more leeway for adjustments.

Moreover, it provides more flexibility, so you can tow things of different shapes and sizes, like campers and boat trailers.

Yet, it's key to keep in mind that the bumper-mounted hitch can only tow or support as much weight as the bumper of your vehicle can.

Front-Mount Hitch

If you're looking for a hitch that won't bother your road vision, then a front-mount hitch is the one for you. Also, it provides a much easier lining up process for your rig.

That's doubly true if you're planning on towing a boat, and would like to get it in and out of the water without tearing your hair out.

Fifth Wheel Hitch

This type of hitch is perfect for heavy-duty towing, especially with pickup trucks.

With a load-carrying capacity of 15,000 to 30,000 pounds, it'll be installed inside the truck and the hitch will rest on the front of the rear axle. Therefore, it's a great choice for long-bed trucks.

In addition, please keep in mind that this type of hitch can only be used with pickup trucks.

Gooseneck Hitch

In case you're on the lookout for a hitch that would provide a smooth towing experience with a tighter turn radius, then a gooseneck hitch is a winner.

Yet, it's similar to a fifth wheel hitch in terms of only being mounted in the bed of a pickup truck.

The core difference between a fifth-wheel hitch and a gooseneck hitch is that the first uses a ball and coupler connection. On the other hand, a gooseneck hitch uses a kingpin connection.

Furthermore, a gooseneck hitch is great at towing bulky loads like large trailers, and flatbeds.

Pintle Hitch

Moving away from the common use of a ball mount, a Pintle hitch uses a hook (otherwise known as a Pintle), and a ring to attach the thing you want to tow with your towing vehicle.

A Pintle works by attaching the framing of the towing vehicle and the ring (or lunette) will be attached to the trailer.

This type of hitch is used for towing extremely heavy-loads, making them a perfect choice for large commercial trucks, dump trucks, and huge trailers.

Your Trailer Is Now Ready to Go

It might be a bit of a disorienting experience to figure out which type of truck hitch to use when there is a variety of truck hitches out on the market.

Yet, we hope that our breakdown of the different types, as well as their weight capacities, have simplified the search for you.

There is nothing quite like grabbing (well, towing) your trailer and going on an adventure.

If you're searching for more tips, we have many blogs in our travels section that will help you set everything up for your trip from your wardrobe to your hiking boots. Make sure to give it a look before you go.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

WHEN WOMEN SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER WITH WHITNEY PORT

One of our faves that we enjoy chatting with is Whitney Port. In addition to being someone that is positive, continues to grow her business interests and more, she truly enjoys reaching out to women and ensuring that they are connected with those that can assist them in their journey. We catch up with Whitney right before she starts filming for the second season of MTV's The Hills: New Beginnings. We talk with her about her upcoming projects, balancing her busy life as well as taking time for herself.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We talked to you last fall and touched on The Hills: New Beginnings and how we loved seeing you back on that show again! What can you tell us about the second season?

WHITNEY PORT: We haven’t started filming yet but I am eager to start back up and connect with everyone again! The show will dive deeper into our lives as parents and our relationships with each other.

AM: We have also become fans of your podcast and love how you share people that you are a fan of or talking with your husband to get to know more about you. Who are some upcoming guests that we should get excited about hearing?

WP: Well, last week I put out one of my favorite episodes ever! It was with BJ Fogg, a professor at Stanford. We talked all about how we can train our brains to be happier and more fulfilled by learning small habits to incorporate into our daily lives. We will also be having some fun peeps on soon like Kaitlyn Bristowe and Rosie Huntington Whiteley.

AM: Tell us about your partnership with Chloe Wine and Dress for Success?

WP: I’ve teamed up with Chloe Wine Collection to raise a glass to hardworking women everywhere this International Women’s Day. Together, we’re also raising awareness for ‘Your Hour Her Power,’ Dress for Success’ signature giving campaign, which encourages supporters to donate one hour of their pay to help women reach their full potential. I recently stopped by the Dress for Success LA boutique to style some of their clients in preparation for upcoming job interviews.

AM: Why does this partnership mean so much to you?

WP: As a business owner, I know how the right outfit can arm you with the confidence and charisma to make a great first impression, and how important it is to have a network of support cheering you on. I wouldn’t be where I am without the strong women in my life, so I’m proud to join Chloe Wine Collection in paying it forward.

AM: Many women are looking to live their best whether it’s starting a new business, delving into their communities and networks or just changing it up to go to a new city. What are your tips for women to optimize themselves through networking, putting their best foot forward as well as to establish themselves in a new city?

WP: Take advantage of social media apps like Bumble Bizz, Meetup and Facebook groups to make connections with likeminded women in industries you are interested in. Keep your eyes peeled for networking events or other fun after-work activities and make it a goal to go to at least one per week. If you work in a big office, send out an all-company slack message to see if anyone is free to grab lunch or a happy hour. It might sound intimidating to put yourself out there, but people are more willing to help than you think!

AM: How do you balance the needs of being a woman with a career, being present as a wife and being a mom?

WP: It’s definitely a challenge but I try to be ok with the imbalance as opposed to striving for perfect balance because that is just not very attainable. Some days may be very work heavy and there’s little time for Sonny or some days may be ALL about Sonny and my inbox might be flooded. It is all about being ok with this, being present in the moment you are in and almost most importantly, making sure your needs are being fulfilled so you can be present for your family and your career. For instance, to feel like a whole human, I need to work out a couple times a week so I make this a priority. It is ok to have needs. I make a working to-do list in a google doc and make sure my needs being met is something scheduled in.

AM: How do you support and motivate the women in your life?

WP: I try to always lend an ear when someone is in need. I try to listen without judgment and not just give advice. I try to hear where they are coming from and work through situations as opposed to just telling them what has worked for me. It is also important just to send random messages or quotes or words of inspiration to those you know need it! But really, just make it known that you are always there to work through tough situations.

AM: What are your 3 go-to power foods that you enjoy to keep your energy up when you’re constantly on the go?

WP: Sunflower seeds, almonds or pumpkin seeds, the Tranquility Smoothie from Kreation, and if I am running out the door but haven’t eaten I will toast some sourdough and slather on some peanut butter for a snack in the car!

IG @WhitneyEvePort

Read the Feb Issue of Athleisure Mag and see When Women Support One Another with Whitney Port in mag.

CONVERTING 2WD TO 4WD: WHAT DOES IT TAKE?

If you have a 2WD truck, you may think about switching to 4WD. Perhaps you want to save money over buying a new 4WD truck or think it will be a fun project. Although adding new driven truck wheels may sound like a good idea, this project can be a really serious undertaking. Here’s what you need to know before you start.

Is It Worth It?

Before you even start thinking about this project, it is important to get some facts straight. First, this is a very complicated undertaking. You will need to make major modifications to the mechanical workings of your vehicle.

Second, as you may have guessed from the above, this is a very expensive project. There are very few circumstances in which it makes more financial sense to upgrade a 2WD truck to 4WD truck than to simply sell the original and buy a new one.

However, it can be worth it in some cases. Perhaps you enjoy the challenge of a really in-depth project. You may want to have more control over your drivetrain and suspension. Alternatively, you may be upgrading a truck that can’t simply be replaced such as a classic.

What Is Involved?

There are quite a few components to change. Some of them you can buy aftermarket. Others may make more sense to get from a donor 4WD truck. These are some of the items you will need:

•        A transfer case and gear shifter

•        Complete front axle assemble

•        Driveshaft

•        Upgraded transmission

•        Complete suspension kit

•        Possible new wiring harness (some trucks have blanked-off 4WD connections)

•        Differentials

All of these items will need to be installed. This is not a job for the faint of heart. Consider getting a professional mechanic to help. You will likely need a hydraulic lift to do this project as it is almost impossible to do with just jack stands alone.

The transfer case is the most significant part of the project. This is the component that allows your drivetrain to deliver power to the front and rear axle. The new front axle assembly is also important because undriven wheels have different assemblies than driven wheels.

Other Considerations

Beyond cost and complexity, you will also need to consider the changes in driving characteristics. Most notably, a 4WD vehicle typically needs more power than a 2WD vehicle due to the extra weight.

Again, this can add cost and complexity to the project. So, the conversion often only makes sense if you are planning to build a project from the ground up anyway. Consider also refreshing other parts of the vehicle at the same time such as installing new wheel and tire packages.

Get Started

Although this type of project is very cost and time prohibitive, it can also be a lot of fun. If you have the tools, the patience and the money, it may be worthwhile doing. You will certainly learn a lot about how modern vehicles operate.

Don’t forget to enlist the help of a mechanic that knows what he or she is doing. This is a very complex undertaking that could seriously harm your truck if you do it incorrectly. If you are successful, however, this is something to be seriously proud of.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

GETAWAY PLACES FOR VALENTINE'S DAY 2020

Sure, Valentine’s Day is much more about capitalism than love, let’s be honest. The “romantic” holiday makes the least sense of them all. After all, we ought to celebrate love every day, right?

But things are as they are, and you can decide to skip the day and just have a blockbuster marathon.

If, however, you are still in the mood for trying something new, check out our suggestions. In the list that follows, we tried to include some really cool things you can try this doomed Valentine’s Day. Furthermore, we will encompass the best getaway destinations for you – or you and your partner.

Whether you’ll be alone or not, it’s always a good time to try things out. Alright, let’s dig in!

On a side note, we made sure to include locations for everyone’s wallet.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Wherever you are in the world, Eastern Europe is the most affordable travel destination all year around. The developing countries will wholeheartedly welcome tourists pretty much anytime. If you’re looking for a cheap getaway destination, the capital of Bulgaria is the perfect way to go.

Flight tickets are typically low-cost and a great number of airlines are selling them.

If you end up visiting Sofia with your significant other, you’ll have many attractions to check out. Art lovers should certainly pay a visit to the National Literature Museum. Additionally, should you be interested in learning more about the country’s history, check out the Museum of Socialist Art.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Contrary to popular belief, not all metropolises are expensive to visit. Let’s take Buenos Aires as an example, the world’s eighth-biggest country’s capital. The visit to this place will surely not break the bank.

The best way to spend your time as a couple in this hot city is to feel the nightlife. Buenos Aires is alive at night, perhaps even more so than during the day. The city is swarmed with nightclubs and pubs. You’ll have your dreams come true if you’re a clubber. Buenos Aires has a truly serious house and techno devoted venues.

Furthermore, if you’re really into unveiling the secrets of the night, check out the city’s thriving underground scene. Just go to Nicky NY Sushi and ask to see the wine cellar. You’ll be surprised.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Now let’s move on to someplace a bit more extravagant. If you want to take the edge off this Valentine’s Day, go to Atlantic City. The city oozes with luxury and it’s a definite must-see in the American state. To live your childhood memories, go to the Steel Pier amusement park. There you can ride the Ferris wheel or you can try the trademark slingshot. Another option is the Disko, an adrenaline-charged ride that will spin both your guts and your brains out. Not literally.

The ultimate adult entertainment that you can experience in Atlantic City is gambling. Hard Rock Café Atlantic City is the place to go to feel opulence and hedonism. Treat yourself and your S.O. to a game of slot machines or Roulette. And when you get tired, head back to your lavish hotel room and play real money slots online. These games are the ideal alternative to in-person casinos.

Dominican Republic

Exotic countries, are we right? The Dominican Republic has some of the finest, most beautiful beaches in the world. If you’re tired of the cold February weather, consider migrating briefly to the Caribbean.

There are few sweeter ways to celebrate the weekend of love. Plunge into the hot ocean and feel the air breeze on your skin. Dry on the golden, sun-drenched strands as you sip a cocktail.

To avoid sunstroke, keep the necessary gear on. When you need to relax your muscles from all the swimming, visit Los Haitises National Park. As you approach the island, you’ll float over the turquoise waters. The view is simply stunning. Then the area itself is packed with gorgeous greenery and rich wildlife.

Galway, Ireland

We will wrap up the list with a classic. And no, it is not Paris. Have you considered going to Ireland anytime soon? Well, you should, because there’s so much to see. Perhaps a single weekend won’t do it justice, but you can try!

Since you don’t have much time, we would not recommend going to the big cities. Instead, head straight to quaint, rural Galway. Everything is way cheaper than in the urban areas anyway, especially Guinness. Have it for almost half the price in Galway. And what better way to experience the tradition than going to the countryside anyway?

If you want to take a piece of history with you back home, drop by John F. Kennedy Park (Eyre Square). The square is the perfect place to observe locals and their daily routines. You can also have a stroll down the 600-acre valley and have the best of both worlds.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

VIDEO GAMES: FROM A VIBRANT SUBCULTURE TO A FLOURISHING POP CULTURE

Imagine yourself back in the year 2000 and you’re playing on your old bulky desktop PC with your friends all crowd up and scooched over the only family PC in the household (online games and multiplayer features weren’t that much of a thing back then!). What were you playing? Was it the first and original The Sims? Or are you a bunch of dudes going gaga over Diablo II? 20 years ago, do you remember your younger self asking your friends for cheat codes or going over multiple forums and discussion boards looking for help on how to get past a certain level or procure a certain item?

Those were undeniably the early days of video games as a thriving subculture. We loved the arcades, the old PC games, the classic Nintendo consoles, and the simple gameplay, but of course, we wanted more. Remember back in the day when gamers and video game enthusiasts were besmirched and labeled as “geeks” who lack the ability to connect on a more social level? Ironically, we’ve put so many negative labels in the gaming community that each of us is actually somehow a part of. I mean, we’ve all been patronizing the latest technology in consoles and computers, we’ve all been lurkers in gaming forums, and we’ve all played Donkey Kong, Super Mario, Pac-Man, and all those oldies but goodies video games and yet the stigma then was so strong, right? But obviously, no matter what labels people put into it, gaming has slowly morphed its way to incorporate itself into our lives.

Thanks to technological advancements and the breakthrough of the Internet, we’re now enjoying video games more commonly than before. As a matter of fact, data from GamingScan show that 75% of US households own a gaming device with 60% of the American population playing on a daily basis. And more surprisingly, most gamers are not even from the Gen Z, in fact, the average age of most gamers is 34 years old.

As for others, perhaps video games serve as an integral part of their daily lives where they get to relax or unwind after a laborious day at work or at school or even use it as a springboard for their career as YouTubers, streamers, game developers, or professional gamers. Truly, from a mere form of entertainment for kids, video games have transitioned to a significant influence on modern popular culture moving intensely and more extensively in entertainment, education, and even in sports.

Entertainment

TV and Film

For a long time, video games simply took cues from existing TV shows and films and created game adaptations of popular TV shows and movie titles. Some examples are Spider-Man 2, the Batman series, Ghostbusters, Iron Man, and more. Although more often than not, fans are usually left exasperated with the lack of essential elements in the plot or gameplay that these games and movie adaptations weren’t able to capture from the original source material. But now, we’re seeing more and more TV series, programs, and films based on popular video games. Apart from hit films like Tomb Raider and Resident Evil comes Detective Pikachu and The Witcher which was recently released on Netflix.

This 2020, expect to see more shows based on your favorite games. According to Business Insider, some of the film adaptations we’re going to see this year are Sonic the Hedgehog, Uncharted, Minecraft the Movie, and Final Fantasy. Personally, we would also love to see The Last of Us and Dying Light on the big screen!

Music

For musicians, singers, and songwriters, video games have paved a new way for them to make and introduce their music to a different, unique, and more concentrated audience. In turn, music embedded in video games can have a much deeper emotional impact on users as they associate their gaming experience with the soundtracks. Some video game soundtracks that have been popularized are Pokemon’s OST, “May I? Stand Unshaken” from Red Dead Redemption, “Priscilla’s Song” from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and the instrumentals from Super Mario Bros., Tetris and more.

Education

If you’re a 90’s kid, you’re probably familiar with Jumpstart or if you haven’t played or heard of it before in school, I’m pretty sure you’re familiar with the games in Encarta and other multimedia encyclopedias that used to be popular back in the early 2000s. Apparently, studies show that children who immerse themselves in educational video games have proved to develop more advanced visual attention, visual-processing, and analytical skills than those who do not. The usage of video games in educational settings just proves how an interactive platform can help develop better academic aptitude. Gradually, educational institutions have begun to embrace video games as a supplementary tool for teaching and learning.

Sports

Gone are the days when gaming was only seen as a nuisance to career and academic achievements. Today, we’ve witnessed a lot of individuals amass thousands to millions of dollars from playing their favorite video games or competitively playing in international tournaments. Probably there’s no more prominent indication that the video game culture has begun to cement its place in mainstream media other than electronic sports.

“Should eSports be considered as a “sport” in itself?” is a question a lot of us have been asking. And although there are arguments that it should be classified differently from traditional physical sports, competitive gaming has nonetheless, sealed itself as a legitimate high school varsity sport in at least eight states in the US. 

If you look at the numbers in 2019, global eSports already drew a whopping 454 million unique viewers. In the US, it is even predicted that by 2021, eSports will have a bigger audience than every professional sports league! Indeed, eSports is more than just a trend; and since it cuts through language and cultural barriers, we can surely look forward to more international media coverage as it goes further into the limelight and hit the much bigger global stage.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BETTING ODDS AND LINES

While a beginner may derive some fun from betting casually with little money, only an expert gambler would really know where to put their money. If you’re still new to the gambling scene, you shouldn’t ignore learning about betting odds and how they are calculated. Statistics and calculations are supposed to be your allies when you’re gambling. Odds define the probability of a certain event, like winning or losing. It also dictates your potential winnings if you predict right. This is why betting against the odds or betting on the underdog is much more rewarding due to the risk taken. We understand that probability can be quite confusing at first, but once you get familiar with its logic, it becomes second nature. The more you learn about probability and odds, the more you see the words through the lens of probability. We’ll be providing you with an overview of what you need to know about betting odds and lines to helping you get started.

Reading Odds

The first natural step is being able to read the odds displayed at any game, match, or tournament. There are three main types of writing odds, depending on the country. The American odds, the most common, denote the profit with a (+) so if you see, for example, an odd with a (+200) that means that every dollar you bet you yield 2 as profit. Fractional odds are more common in the UK and the previous example would be denoted as ½. The decimal odds are popular in Europe and a $2 profit for every dollar is written as 3.00, which is the total you win including your own bet.

If American odds are denoted with a negative that means that the amount presented should be wagered to make $100. A (-500) bet means that for every $500 you wager; you win $100 if it’s correct. The American odds are often referred to as moneyline odds. The difference between, odds dictates the favorite with the highest chance to win in contrast with the underdog with the lower chance. The more the difference gap between them gets bigger the more money you’ll win if you place a correct bet on the underdog.

Favorable Odds

While it’s easy to do so, you can’t just depend on the numbers displayed and only think of profits. The more profit your wager gets, the riskier the bet. All sports have different strategies to bet and spreads; a lot of experts are using sophisticated and strategies that take a lot of experience to find favorable odds. In sports, the past championships and winners are used to define their new odds every year. You can see the previous winnings and the interesting odds of past years on Boyd’s Bets to try and understand how a certain championship is developing. You can use this to your advantage as they present a brief overview of the teams and their performance as they explain the reason for the high or low odds.

Shopping for Odds

Experts at sports gambling suggest not settling down for the first thing you see on any website. Exploring other websites and venues for differing odds to gain an advantage can yield you a good profit. Betting odds are calculated mathematically by using complex equations and statistics, making every betting shop offer different odds on the same matches. One shop may offer a drastically higher profit for a wager than the other, making you win more significant. You’ll find that every website presents different spreads and lines that can be used to your advantage.

Different Strategies

Since every sporting event is different, it can be a bit overwhelming at first to formulate a good strategy for betting. When you’re betting on horses, it’s recommended that you lock in your wager as late as possible. An NFL game, on the other hand, would provide better profits and odds if you lock in your bet as early as possible. The strategy of finding a formula for betting will never be constant and it will require a lot of revision and research to make sure that you’re betting on the right result. Every sport is different, making every strategy also different.

While a happy-go-lucky attitude in betting is fun, it’s not the best when you’re trying to bet serious money. A deeper understanding of odds, lines, and their calculations are guaranteed to help you get a look at the true potential of your wagers. There is no single strategy that works for every game so always try to do your best each and every bet to truly win.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING A FACELIFT

You don't have to leave your youthful good looks behind as you age but before facial plastic surgery, get real about expectations.  With so much information out there about facelifts and facelift alternatives, separating fact from fiction can be difficult to anyone. To help one find the accurate answers they are looking for, here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about getting a facelift, from how to tell if a facelift could be right for you to the best way to achieve long-lasting results.

Can Facial Exercises Work As Well As a Facelift?

There has been talk lately that performing various facial exercises can "tone" and "tighten" one’s face, much like your workouts at the gym can tone and tighten your abs or biceps.

Signs of skin aging like lines, wrinkles and sagging skin can actually be made worse by repetitive facial movements, and no amount of facial exercise is going to be able to get rid of these common signs of aging. If these are your main cosmetic concerns, a facelift or other minimally invasive alternatives like injectable wrinkle treatments are most likely going to be your best options. 

How Do You Know If It Is The Right Time to Get a Facelift?

So if facial exercises aren't going to do the trick, how do you decide if it might be time to commit to a facelift? If your self-confidence is affected by the appearance of sagging skin or deep lines and creases, or if minimally invasive treatments don't seem to be cutting it anymore, a facelift may be the most effective solution.   London, England is the home of premium cosmetic surgery. London cosmetic surgery contains board certified surgeons, common questions with answers, and recommendations vital for any cosmetic procedure.

There also isn't an age cutoff for getting a facelift. As long as you are in general good health, just about anyone at any age could be a good candidate for this procedure. You know it's time for a facelift is when you hate the look of your neck and your jawline. There is nothing short of a facelift that corrects the loose skin and neck muscles and extra fat under the chin like a well-performed facelift done by an experienced expert.

Doing your own research about a certain plastic surgeon is a start.  Many online sites offer valuable information on plastic surgery all over the world.  Educated patients that the best outcomes.

What is The Recovery Like?

Plan on taking it easy and having someone else around to help you, especially after the first few days of the procedure. The general recovery period is usually about 10 days, and stitches are usually removed after the first week. Most people feel comfortable returning to work and other normal activities around the two-week mark.

To help aid in your recovery process, make sure you're eating healthy, nourishing foods, getting plenty of rest and are following your plastic surgeon's specific recovery guidelines.

How Long Do the Facelift Results Last?

Although no plastic surgeon can guarantee the precise length your results will last, the effects of most facelifts typically lasts for years before a touch-up could be needed. To prolong your results even further, try to stay out of the sun, wear sunscreen, eat a healthy diet and talk to a skincare professional about which products are right for your skin.

You may also want to consider incorporating minimally invasive skin care treatments like laser rejuvenation into your regular beauty regimen for optimum skin health.

What Do I Look for In A Plastic Surgeon?

If you think a facelift is right for you, the first step is to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon. Look for both board certification and extensive experience performing plastic surgeries like facelift and eyelid surgery when narrowing down your search. It's also not a bad idea to schedule an in-office consultation with your top two or three picks to help you make a final decision.

Further Recommendations

However, the following points should be discussed and considered before going ahead:

●      Facelift surgery is not recommended for anyone with serious medical problems, and the candidate should be in good mental and physical health.

●      Patients with high blood pressure and diabetes have a higher risk of complications.

●      Cigarette smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of complications after surgery. It can interfere with wound healing. A person who is considering a facelift should completely cut out any smoking/nicotine products. 

●      It is important to have reasonable expectations and to remember that a facelift will not stop the overall aging process. 

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

PSYCHOLOGIST OFFERS YOUR RESOLUTION FREE GUIDE TO A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER YOU IN 2020

With the start of a new year it is important to reflect back on the prior year, assess what went well, what didn’t and decide where you want to go next. It takes a lot of mental toughness, self-love, and discipline to create the life you want. Simply coasting along on cruise control reacting to life can lead to victim mentality and stagnation. Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist. She shares key ways to get mentally fit for the new year so you can move forward successfully. In doing so, you don’t have to swear yourself to resolutions and feel like a failure if you don’t achieve them.  Just think about the life you want to create and take small steps.

Clear clutter.

Look at your surroundings. If you have junk drawers galore, a messy car, countertops and cabinets that are full of stuff you don’t even use, it is time to clear the clutter. According to Dr. Hafeez, “cluttered spaces reflect a cluttered mind. If you want to wipe the slate clean to allow room for new people and circumstances that serve you, you must get your mind clear. Many of my patients who describe themselves as anxious, stressed or even depressed say they feel better when they start clearing up their physical space.” 

Eat mind-boosting foods.

Mental fitness also has to do with how well our minds work. A loss of memory or the ability to concentrate or focus can easily shift with an improved diet. “Research finds that along with other benefits, foods rich in Omega-3, such as some fish and nuts, as well as those full of antioxidants can help protect the brain from memory decline. “Eating more fish such as salmon and add fruits such as blackberries and blueberries to your diet can help. The good news is that brain-boosting foods include delicious options such as chocolate, guacamole (avocados) and sunflower seeds.

Color!

The adult coloring book bandwagon is a good one to jump on. According to Dr. Hafeez coloring requires total focus on the present. The repetitive motion of coloring provides relief from stress and anxiety by entering a meditative state. “Not everyone can sit still and breathe for 15 minutes per day, but they certainly can color. It’s absolutely a fun way to achieve mindfulness and shake off the day,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

Apologize and forgive.

A fast way to mental fitness is forgiveness! “Carrying around resentments and guilt wears us down and can lead to serious illness such as cancer or stroke. If you experienced a tough break up, divorce or perhaps the 2016 political climate led to arguments and lost friends, reach out apologize and seek forgiveness and move on. Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone hurtful behavior. Forgiveness frees you and the other person making it easier to move forward. 

Learn something new. 

Challenge your brain by learning a new language, how to cook, paint, do Tai Chi. Pick something you think would be interesting or useful to learn and learn it. If you avoided cooking your whole life, learning the basics will serve your brain very well. According to Dr. Hafeez, “the more we can activate the cognitive functions of our brains the better our short and long-term memory and hand eye coordination will be.”

Plan and prepare more meals at home

Instead of committing to a strict diet, incorporate more home-cooked meals into your repertoire. Research shows that food made at home has less fat, calories, and sugar than meals eaten out, even if you’re not specifically trying to prepare and eat healthier meals.

Set a goal to make one new friend a month

As we get older we tend to get stagnant with our friendships and not reach beyond our formed circles anymore. Make an effort to engage the person you always see at your spin class or pass everyday in the hallway at your co-working space. Bringing new people into the fold can add spice and variety to your life.

Do something that scares you

Dr. Hafeez does not mean putting your life at risk. If public speaking has been a thorn in your side, take a class in it, and them put your lessons to use. If you would love to try snow skiing but have been too timid- take a lesson.  Has the travel bug bit you but you don’t have a companion? Throw a dart at a map and travel (safety first) wherever the dart lands. It does not matter what you do, however big or small as long as you try something previously out of your comfort zone. One completed victory will give rise to another.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ARE PSYCHICS REAL?

Psychics have been using their powers to help people for thousands of years. Science still hasn’t been able to figure them out, and therefore people sometimes like to dismiss psychics as quacks or frauds. But there is so much evidence out there that psychics are real. From people with prophetic abilities to psychics who can locate missing people, we know from experience that there is something to it. Psychics are definitely real.

How can we tell if someone has real psychic abilities?                                                              

Sadly it is true that there are some frauds out there masquerading as real psychics. How can you tell difference? There are best practices that you can follow in order to evaluate a psychic before you begin working with them or at least within the first few minutes of speaking with them.

If a psychic is trying to scare you, it’s probably a scam. If they are trying to sell you something or they are promising you the world, you should be careful. Check out our tips on avoiding psychic scams and frauds. Once you understand how psychic abilities really work, you will easily be able to tell apart the real psychics from the fakes.

What kinds of questions can a psychic answer?

The key to having a successful experience with your psychic is finding the appropriate skill set and personality for you. A psychic can answer any kind of question, but some will be more effective in certain areas. If you are seeking advice and insight about a love relationship, work with a love psychic. If you are seeking to make a connection with a loved one that has passed away, work with a medium.

Once you do your homework and learn the basics of the different kinds of psychic abilities, you will recognize what will best serve you. Also, be sure to take the time to read through the bios of the psychics you are considering working with. Psychics are often able to combine multiple kinds of psychic abilities for maximum effect. Also, definitely read the customer reviews that have been posted about your psychic. To explore more about psychic reading visit https://www.psychicguild.com/ and share your experience with others. Someone may have extraordinary gifts, but if their personality doesn’t jive with yours, you won’t have the best possible experience.

A successful psychic reading requires you to be open-minded, calm, and willing to receive. This is best done with someone who you feel you can place your trust in. When you begin your session, the psychic’s comments should resonate with you right away. They will know things that you haven’t told them and see things that others can’t. This is how you will know right away that they are real.

Are online psychic readings legit and how do they work?

Online psychic readings are the same as any other kind of psychic reading. Although it is nice to be in the physical presence of your psychic, it is not necessary for them to complete their work. Because psychics work in extra-sensory energetic fields, they can accomplish their work from anywhere.

The great thing about online psychic readings is that you can choose from the best of the best. Because location and proximity isn’t a barrier for you, you have a much bigger pool of professionals to choose from! Psychics can work with you via telephone, chat, video chat, or even email. Once you begin communication with your preferred psychic, they immediately tap into your energy field.

I’m still not sure if psychics are real - what should I do?

If you’re curious but still on the fence, go ahead and try a free psychic reading first! That way you risk nothing and if you discover its not for you, you haven’t lost anything but a few minutes of your time. There are lots of free offers for first-time customers from the best psychic websites on the internet.

When you get your chosen psychic on the phone, keep the following tips in mind:

●      Use the first few minutes of your free session to see how your connection feels. You can always terminate if you are uncomfortable.

●      Don't volunteer too much information during your session. See what they can figure out on their own. When you see their abilities at work it will reassure you of their abilities.

●      Make sure the psychic is asking specific questions instead of general ones

●      Test your psychic! Only answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to their questions!

 Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ARGUMENTS ON WHY COLLEGE ATHLETES SHOULD BE PAID

Coming up with a good quality argumentative essay is not easy, especially if it is your first attempt. To put your worries at ease, we at AdvancedWriters are providing you with a well-written sample essay that is well researched and detailed. The topic is an argument on why college athletes should be paid.

College sports is something that is very popular in America with sports like football and basketball being televised and drawing in huge crowds. This is something that brings in a lot of money for television networks. Over the years, there have been plenty of debates on whether college athletes should be paid when they play or not because of how valuable their teams are. Below is a list of valuable college football teams. 

Source https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrissmith/2018/09/11/college-footballs-most-valuable-teams/amp/

There are two main reasons why college athletes should be paid. The first reason is college athletes put their bodies on the line and risk injury to entertain people. College athletes are young and full of enthusiasm and this makes the games very competitive because they play with heart and passion. While this is something admirable, football and basketball are contact sports. Many college students do suffer serious injuries, and some can be career-ending.

This can put their scholarship aspiration to a complete stop because they have put their bodies on the line and not being paid for it. Serious injuries to the knee, for example, can leave someone crippled for life. A concussion, for example, can cause serious brain damage, depression, and even dementia at a very young age. Since there are serious health risks when college athletes train and play on game day, they deserve to be paid.

The second reason why college athletes should be paid is college sports games bring in a lot of money.  Below is a diagram which shows the average revenue for schools by sports.

https://amp.businessinsider.com/college-sports-revenue-2016-10

There is no doubt that a lot of money is made from college, but many believe that paying the athletes will make them become complacent and make it less competitive. Instead of playing for pride, college athletes might start playing for a paycheque. Fans love to see the passion and feel the money will ruin that, but this is not true.

Many major corporations in America are making millions off college athletes by asking them to wear their brands without pay during games. These players feel used by these corporations, and no one can blame them for feeling that way. Stopping them from being paid is a way to make sure that purity is preserved, and it remains competitive.

The third reason why college athletes should be paid is it makes them fitter and healthier. When students are earning while they play, they will not need to look for part-time employment to support themselves. This lets them focus more on education and getting better marks, which is good for the school they are attending.

The fourth reason why college athletes should be paid is the funds can provide relief to families that are struggling financially. Not all students come from families that are financially well off. On top of paying for their child’s tuition, they need to buy sports gear for them to play in. A family might sometimes have to rely on loans just to get their child through college. When a college athlete is paid, they can ease some of the financial burdens on their family and pay for their own tuition and up keeping rather than rely on their family.

The last reason why student college athletes should be paid is it motivates them to play. Many college athletes never make it as professionals in their respective sports. In fact, only 2% of college athletes end up making a career in the sport they are playing in. This is because they prefer to become a pro in the field they are studying as play for their college team to socialize and be fit. 

Overall giving students a huge amount of money while they are not ready for it is not a good idea as they can be targeted by predators who want to use them for their money. No one wants to be a victim of fraud, but since college students can sometimes be naive, they can leave themselves exposed to people who do not have their best interests at heart. On the other hand, not being paid while you are doing a job is wrong. Everyone deserves to be paid for a job, especially one that has serious health risks like basketball and football. Some of the money a student might earn if paid can be used to pay for the best medical treatment when they suffer serious injuries.

References:

• CollegeXpress Student Writer (2017) Should College Student-Athletes Be Paid? Both Sides of the Debate. [Online] Available at https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/athletics/blog/should-college-student-athletes-be-paid-both-sides-debate/ [Assessed on 01 Dec 2019]

• Abigail Hess (2019)Majority of college students say student-athletes should be paid, survey finds [Online] Available at:https://www.cnbc.com/2019/09/11/student-athletes-should-get-paid-college-students-say.html [Assessed on 01 Dec 2019]

• Chris Smith (2018) College Football's Most Valuable Teams: Texas A&M Jumps To No. 1 [Online] Available at https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrissmith/2018/09/11/college-footballs-most-valuable-teams/amp/ [Assessed on 01 Dec 2019]

• The perspective (2019) Three Reasons Why College Athletes Should Get Paid [Online] Available at https://www.theperspective.com/debates/sports/college-athletes-get-paid/ [Assessed on 02 Dec 2019]

• Times Staff (2019) College athletes should be paid[Online] Available at https://sjcctimes.com/12832/sports/college-athletes-should-be-paid/[Assessed on 02 Dec 2019]

• Editor in chief (2019) 14 Should College Athletes Be Paid Pros and Cons [Online] Available at:https://vittana.org/14-should-college-athletes-be-paid-pros-and-cons [Assessed on 01 Dec 2019]

• Steve Cameron (2019) The NCAA brings in $1 billion a year — here's why it refuses to pay its college athletes [Online] Available at:https://www.businessinsider.com/ncaa-college-athletes-march-madness-basketball-football-sports-not-paid-2019-3 [Assessed on 02 Dec 2019]

• Cork Gaines (2016) The average college football team makes more money than the next 25 college sports combined [Online] Available at:https://amp.businessinsider.com/college-sports-revenue-2016-10 [Assessed on 02 Dec 2019]

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | #47 NOV 2019

This month’s cover and back cover is EDM DJ/Producer and Entrepreneuer Marshmello. We headed out to Bethlehem, PA to the ribbon cutting of Stuffed Puffs plant where he and his manager are equity partners in this sweet treat! We catch up with him on his successes, music and more. In our feature, Something You Should Know, we sit down with Chef Elizabeth Falkner and No Kid Hungry’s Jenny Dirksen to talk about initiatives of this program, holiday meals and more. You can also hear this interview later this month on our podcast show, Athleisure Kitchen which is available on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcast and wherever you enjoy listening. We also spent time at the 14th Annual StarChefs International Congress which was a weekend filled with food demonstrations, panels and more for the culinary community. We have a number of interviews in this piece from Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli (of Don Angie), Emily Hyland, Ben Turley and Brent Young of The Meat Hook and you can also listen to the Managing Editor of StarChefs, Will Blunt later on this month on Athleisure Kitchen. We sat down with one of our faves from The Hills and The Hills: New Beginnings’ Whitney Port to find out why she decided to come back to the reality show in it’s reboot as well as what she’s up to, how she takes time for herself and more. In this month’s The Art of the Snack, we head to Midtown East’s Chola which is known for it’s savory Indian cuisine. We also have our Holiday Gift Guide (there is an additional one that will be in the Dec issue out later this month).

As usual, we have our monthly roundups including our 9LIST (Athleisure Mag’s picks that we’re loving this month in style, beauty and fitness) featured roundups. This month’s 9LIST STORI3S (picks supplied by celebrities) gives us insight into Celebrity Trainer, Nutrition Expert, Best Selling Author, TV Personality and Gym Designer – Harley Pasternak. This month’s 9PLAYLIST (9 songs that our celebs are loving this month) comes from, LaLa Anthony of STARZ’s Power. As always, you can enjoy Athleisure List (Crown Plaza HY36 and Murray’s Cheese Mac Bar), The Pick Me Up, Bingely Books, Bingely Streaming, Style Files, Rock This Sleep Style Overnight to Breakfast, Athleisure Beauty, How to Dress, In Our Bag, #TRIBEGOALS and Bergamot Beauty. 

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag, Issue 47.

CASINO ETIQUETTE - 5 THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

American gambling has quite a long history associated with it, starting with small saloons and eventually transforming into modern casinos at the start of the 20th century. Of course, certain traditions and customs have established throughout the existence of casinos. These unspoken rules make it easy to identify who’s a newbie and who’s a gambling veteran.

However, don’t get discouraged if you’ve never been to a casino. Just don’t imagine how you stroll into the building wearing your tuxedo, sit down behind some table, and order a ‘tini. Casinos don’t work or look like a James Bond movie (anymore, at least). 

Nonetheless, casino customs are simple to learn and can be mastered with ease. If you follow the points below to a tee, then you shouldn’t be afraid of embarrassing yourself or looking strange.

General Guidelines

Here are some universal points that can be applied to any casino visit:

• Politeness. Always remember why you came to the casino: to win and have fun. Being rude to the staff won’t give you an advantage, and insulting other members can get you thrown out of the building. Some people think that being offensive is the way to go in casinos, but, please, don’t follow suit. 

• Dress code. No tux is needed, as the casinos are pretty casual nowadays. However, there are a couple of No-Nos in regards to how you should dress going to such a place. According to GamblersDailyDigest, the biggest mistakes are wearing flip-flops, sneakers, dirty/torn clothing, and shorts or t-shirts after sunset (as casinos become more formal at night).

• Get your cash. Unlike anywhere else in the world, most casinos make a point of being cash-based. Don’t even try to use your bank cards at the table, because you’ll look foolish. Prepare the cash before coming to the casino if you want to avoid some awkward situations.

• Know the rules. It is an obvious point, but you should at least be acquainted with the basics of the game you’re going to play. By entering the game and not knowing the rules, you’ll disturb the game flow, taking out the fun from other people playing. However, if you’re feeling only slightly unsure in your capabilities but know the basics, then you can ask staff for small booklets with the explained game’s rules.

• No phones. Don’t use your phone behind the table. Not only would it distract you from the game, but you'd be also immensely rude to everybody who’s playing and to the dealer, especially if you’re taking a phone call. If you need to use your phone, step away from the table.

• Don’t delay the decision. Have some respect for the time of other people and don’t think for too long. It’s extremely infuriating when you’re the one waiting on the other player to finally make his decision.

• No sitting around. Seats are only for the gambling folks, and if you’re not playing, then you’re not sitting. Do you want to watch your friend’s play? Stand behind him or her and enjoy the game.

• Tip. Although it’s not a must, this gesture is much appreciated. The amount of the tip is up to you, but the standard of the US Tournaments if 3%. Of course, you can tip how much you want.

Game-Related Rules 

There are some more specific rules that are related to each casino game. Check them out to feel comfortable sitting behind one of the tables.

Roulette

When you join a table, you have to ask for roulette chips. They’re not value-based; instead, they differentiate players. Also, don’t throw your chips around and keep them in a pile when placing stakes. Roulette chips are not for use in any other game, so you have to cash them in before exiting the game.

Blackjack

Show some common courtesy and ask whether you can join the table. Learn the hand gestures and signs in order to understand what’s going on in the game. According to GamblingNewsMagazine, you should hold your cards only with one hand. Generally, don’t become too touchy with your cards, as many casinos have strict policies regarding it.

Craps

Decide on a buy-in ahead of time and don’t make other people waiting on you. Also, don’t make your bet when the dice have been already thrown. It can even be considered fraudulent by some casinos. Bet only when the dice are in the middle. Don’t wave your hands around, as if you touch the dice during the throw, they’ll have to rethrown. 

Poker

When calling or raising, don’t disturb (splash) the pot, as it will confuse everybody. Put a neat pile in front of you, and the dealer will take care of it. Don’t acknowledge your hand emotionally and never elaborate verbally on it: again, some casinos prohibit it. Don’t waste everybody’s time by not tabling your hand, as this is considered not sportsmanlike. 

Helpful Tips on How to Behave in a Casino

There are some additional things you need to keep in mind. The points below relate not to the games but the behavior in a casino.

Don’t Get Intoxicated

Most major casinos offer free drinks for gambling clients. Nonetheless, don’t overuse this offer. Only fictional characters can easily gamble through the night and keep drinking one cocktail after another. There is a sure possibility that you’ll gamble more recklessly after drinking a bit too much. If you’re interested in drinking than gambling, then simply go to the bar initially. It is, of course, always recommended to stay sober to handle all of the wins and losses.

Remember that You’re On Your Own

If you’re a gambling newbie, one of the most novice things to do is to ask others for advice. Don’t ask other casino clients, as they are there for themselves, and only a couple out of a hundred will take pity on a beginner and offer real advice. And definitely don’t ask the dealers, as they don’t want and shouldn’t have to take responsibility for your luck. 

Know How To Lose

Let’s remember why casinos exist. Just like any other business, they’re there to make money, and they do it by having their clients gamble the money away. So, if you find yourself in a less than favorable situation, don’t create an unpleasant situation for everybody around. If you’re aggravated, then don’t express it verbally or physically. Also, don’t scream at your opponents, and don’t throw your cards in the air. Otherwise, you may become an unwelcome guest at the casino.

According to Lucian Marinescu, managing partner at Online Casino Gems, aggressive behavior in casinos should never be tolerated. He says: “Gambling is a noble sport, and the players should act appropriately. Losing is a part of life for a gambler. So, one needs to learn how to lose with dignity. This way, you’ll be gladly accepted into the gambling community and create some very interesting friendships.”

Final Words

Going to a casino for the first time may be a bit frightening, but if you’re well-aware of all of the intricacies of casino etiquette, then you have nothing to worry about. There is really not that much to remember, and on the second visit, you’ll surely feel like you belong here.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

CAN YOU PLAY CASINO ONLINE AND WIN REAL MONEY?

Technological advancement has made it easier for people do a lot of things and one of those things includes gambling. For the last couple of years, the gambling industry has taken a turn to provide better services to players. One of the ways it has done this is not by opening new and more doors to land-based casinos but by placing a hold on the player’s smartphones. Now, one can find different online casinos available in their phones, laptops and other devices at the click of a button.

Things have become so much easier that players around the world flock to the internet to find a game of their choice. According to Wikipedia, online casinos offer more rewards than the land-based ones. Online casinos also offer a faster pace of play so the factor of instant gratification is included here. Furthermore, these online gambling games allow for greater dynamics and enhanced convenience. All these points have made online gambling really popular, now a person can access their preferred and desired game at all times, anywhere and from the comfort of their home.

Online casinos which are available on websites and apps provide their customers with a lot of incentive. They offer a huge variety of games from every kind such as blackjack, poker, slots, progressive slots roulette, live casino, baccarat, bingo, keno, etc. You can find the top mobile gambling games on Smartphone gambler. All these games have variations as they come with a different set of rewards and different themes. The themes are a really fun attraction because each has an interesting graphic design and sound. There is life like animations, there’s virtual reality integrated and live casinos offer a different and authentic gaming experience.

Other than that, the most popular games are available for mobile devices like iOS, Windows Phone OS, and Android, making it possible for players to bet and potentially win big as they go.

Online casinos are of four types with each one having its own set of pros and cons. There’s web-based online casino, download-based online casino, virtual casino, and live dealer casino games. In web-based online casinos you don’t need to download software to play on the website. The download-based online casino, as the name suggests, requires you to download software in order to play and wager. The good thing about this is that it runs faster than the web-based online casino.

Online casinos make the games available for instant play, there quick and flexible, and you can play them from any device you like. Since majority of the population and target audience of the casinos uses smartphones, it makes sense for the online casinos to support mobile play on smartphones and tablets such as the ones on iOS, Android and Window Phone OS. Online casinos require for you to make an account and there’s no requirement for you to sign up again if you have an account.

Many times the question of bonuses arises amongst players who are looking to play at online casinos. As stated earlier, online gambling games offer so many bonuses, rewards, promotions and even invite to events. You get welcome bonuses, referral bonuses, cashback or insurance bonuses, no deposit bonuses, non-cashable bonuses, bonus hunting and comp points.

The security and safety of players can be insured through the online game and it’s always a good idea to check if the game is licensed or not. Since a lot of information is being put online about you including your payment details it’s necessary you check up on the licensors. They are the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, the Gibraltar Gambling Commission, the Alderney Gambling Control Commission, and the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission.

 Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

HOW TO GET RID OF PESTS: TOP TRICKS AND TIPS

There are several different ways and tricks to get rid of pests. If you want to learn more, you should click here to learn how to get rid of pests.

Nothing ruins your luxury lifestyle faster than a pest problem in your home.

From unwashed gym gear sitting in the corner of your room to leftover quinoa salad on the kitchen counter, many things attract all sorts of pests.

Keep reading to find out how to get rid of pests without using harsh chemicals to leave your home pest-free and your conscience clear.

When to Call an Expert

Before you think about tackling your pest problem yourself, step back to assess the situation.

Firstly, some creatures need professional removal, such as wasp nests. Don't even try this yourself - just call the experts now.

Seeing lots of insects, bugs, or rodents - or witnessing a large amount of damage, such as chewed drywall - means the job is a big one. Contact a natural pest control expert to save yourself a lot of time, effort, and battles with an army of tiny critters.

How to Get Rid of Pests Without Harsh Chemicals

Toxic chemicals won't do you, pets, children, or your home environment any good. With some pests, poisonous bait can also deliver a cruel and needlessly painful exit from the world.

Follow these tips to get rid of the early signs of pests, and prevent any from casing the joint as a potential new home.

Eliminate Pooling Water 

Even the smallest critters need water to survive. Pooling water is the perfect magnet for all sorts of pests. This might be condensation collecting on your window sill, a broken gutter building water in the yard, or a leaking pipe in your basement.

Get rid of leaks, spills, and water pools in your outside areas to eliminate water sources for pests.

Clean up Crumbs and Spills Immediately

Pests only need a few crumbs to survive each day, so always clean up any spills or mess. Always clear away pet food after feeding times too.

Put food in airtight containers to stop animals chewing through or crawling into the boxes.

Seal Trash Securely

Use indoor trash cans with a lid and clear your garbage regularly.

Outside, use a can with a secure lid - ideally, metal cans work best. This is because they won't crack in the same way plastic trash cans will, and that'll deter any pests trying to break in.

Fill in External Cracks

Pests can crawl into the smallest of spaces. Inspect your home's exterior and seal, fill, or plug any holes you can see. 

You can also add door sweeps and repair any screen doors to prevent critters using these entrances to get into your home.

Burn Citronella Candles to Keep Insects Away

Citronella candles are safe to use and keep flying insects such as mosquitoes well away from your home.

Remember to never leave them unattended, however, and be careful burning candles around pets and children.

Read More Eco-Friendly Home and Lifestyle Tips 

Pests stay away from unfriendly environments. That's the golden rule: eliminate things that make critters think there are tasty treats, safe shelter, or an abundant water source that'll keep them alive in harsh conditions.

The steps above are an easy way to make your home unattractive to pests without using environmentally-damaging products.

But knowing how to get rid of pests in your home without using harsh chemicals is just one step to the eco-friendly lifestyle we all aspire to live.

From getting fit in nature to reducing your carbon footprint to showing you eco-friendly luxury beauty brands, check out our lifestyle blogs to learn more about living a beautiful life.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

PLAYING TOP RATED SLOT GAMES IN 2019

Slot games are big business for all of us in 2019, beloved by gaming fans across the globe, there are some which are worth their weight in gold, more so than others.

Back in the day, slots were played on machines wherever you could find one to get your hands on, and these were known most famously as fruit machines due to the history of the slot machine - once they gave out fruits instead of money in order to get around laws prohibiting them.

But now, slots are played online from top 10 slot games site, bringing delight and big wins to players from the comfort of their own homes, they’re more flexible than ever too, available to download, most of the time for free, on Android and iOS for on the go gaming. 

About slot gaming

Slot games are coming in thick and fast this 2019, with variations around multiple themes: you name it they’ve got it.

Slots are themed around books, movies, cartoons, eras, other games, TV programmes, entire games around characters or celebrities… the list goes on!

Slots are a classic casino game and are highly rated by players all around the world, played and beloved by celebrities and regular joes alike.

There are three types to get to grips with - the classic slot, multi line slot and the 3D slot. Classic slots closely resemble the originals, and were the first types of slot games to ever go online, great for playing if you want that retro vibe.

Multi line and 3D slots are the more popular and modern gaming choices though, with players enjoying these more than other types of casino games found online due to the fun anticipation and sense of excitement when you get a win, plus these are the games usually themed.

Multi line slots have increased pay lines too, so that gives players more chances to win big and so of course many prefer these to the classic games.

3D slots are the final generation of slot gaming, and the most modern. These are a bit more entertaining too as they are in 3D gaming mode.

Best slot games to choose to play with in 2019

Gem rocks is a fantastic 3D slot to play in 2019, with a unique layout which allows for six reel play instead of five, and there is around 4,096 ways to win, and you can do so from just 10p.

Second we have Big Bad Wolf, themed around the three little pigs story, there’s 25 pay lines over five reels and you can play in two game modes.

Then we have the unique slot game Cluster Pays. To get a cluster, a symbol has to be in line horizontally or vertically with the same symbol. Land on more than nine and you’ll be rewarded with a prize.

Three Genie Wishes is also great, it’s got five reels, and for anybody who goes inside the genie’s lair, there’s a 50 fixed pay line slot.

Or turn up the heat with Chilli Heat slot, just place a bet of 25p and you can win a big Mexican fiesta of cash.
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

TIPS FOR SHOPAHOLICS WISHING TO SPEND AND SAVE SIMULTANEOUSLY

Tips for Shopaholics Wishing to Spend and Save Simultaneously

The average American spends around $1,803 per year on clothing – which is probably way beneath what the typical fashionista wishes to dedicate to their wardrobe. Considering that a pair of Yeezys can set you back around $350 and Prada’s small nylon bag starts at $280 in price, it can be easy to see how your yearly spend can extend to thousands on clothing alone. The good news for those who enjoy the ‘kick’ of bringing home a new pair of shoes, luxury skincare products, or jewelry, is that you can indeed save while giving yourself monthly treats. Follow these tips and ensure that your savings account grows even more quickly than your wardrobe.

Quality over Quantity

To be a smart shopper, prize quality over quantity and buy designer items during key times of the year – such as sale season or special sale days. There is little point in buying five pairs of shoes for an upcoming vacation if they are likely to cause pain, break apart, or fail to provide the right ‘grip’ for the activities you have signed up for. Quality can be tested by checking out reviews and vlogs on designer products you are interested in. Don’t be tempted to buy items on sale that don’t suit your intended purpose. For instance, a running shoe may be on sale but if you are more into trekking, it is best to opt for a well priced mountain shoe, even if the discount on the product is lower.

Opting for the Right Payment Method

When choosing payment methods, ease and interest are the prime factors to look out for. Comparison sites will show you how much you can save by opting for different types of credit card. Shop with cards that offer you very low or no interest, and those that offer reward payments and high percentages back for any interest charged. You can save up to $4,000 just by choosing the right card, but you will need to be making more than a specified income to be eligible for one of these. If you have maxed your credit card out before, then cash payments or debit only cards may be the ideal choice for anything other than necessities.

Tech Tips for Savers

One of the biggest mistakes made by over-spenders is a simple lack of awareness of how much they are spending. A Tshirt here, a beauty product there, a gourmet cup of coffee while shopping – all these expenses can add up to hundreds of dollars (or more) per month. According to Investopedia and other finance sites, some of the best apps for savers include Mint, Wally, and You Need a Budget. The latter is particularly handy for shopaholics because it works around the premise that every dollar you have should fulfil a useful purpose. After helping you allocate budgets to different expenses, it gives you advice on how to re-balance your budget. By using the app, you can look forward to repaying around $500 in debt in your first month of use. Acorns is another useful app that rounds up every expense you pay with a credit card, investing this ‘change’ automatically on your behalf. 

Financial experts normally recommend that you set aside around 20% of your income for savings. Depending on how much you earn, it may still be possible to do this while building the wardrobe of your dreams. Use an app like Mint to set a limit for your monthly shopping and stick to your budget. List the quality items you need and take advantage of special days like Black Friday to get your hands on a highly coveted purchase. Finally, don’t waste money by using a high-interest credit card. Live within your means but don’t be hesitant to give yourself an occasional treat.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

TAKE A MOMENT AND PASS THE TIME

When you need a bit of down time, we think grabbing you device and playing GameTwist casino is a great way to pass sometime whether you’re waiting for your studio class to start, hanging out at home or prepping to board your flight. With this platform, you can enjoy a number of games that are offered and you can enjoy the social elements as you can play with your friends on Facebook. We also like that you can loop your friends on how your advancing in your games with your friends by sharing on Twitter and Facebook. On Facebook, when you connect and allow your account to be connected to the social network, you will receive twist credits. When you decide to invite your friends to join you on GameTwist – each friend that uses your code to register, you’ll earn a referral bonus as well. You can enjoy playing on your laptop, desktop or your mobile devices. Visit their website and look to download the app at the App Store or on Google Play so that you can enjoy playing this on your mobile device of choice.

When it comes to playing games on this platform, you can rest easy knowing that this online casino doesn’t use actual cash as bets as this is a free gambling platform. When players bet, they are done by twist virtual currencies which is acquired on their platform. As money is not involved, bonuses and promotions are different than other casinos that you have played with and is a great way to be enjoyed through social players. From Welcome Bonuses that are given to first-time players take place when you sign up for an account and you receive 30,000 bonus twists plus free spins. This offering can be updated at any time.

Players can enjoy Daily Bonuses that you should be aware of as you play. These are updated regularly and can be changed based on the season or special occasions. This is another way that the games are kept fresh and will encourage you to continue engaging with the platform to see what else you can unlock.

The VIP Club allows that as you play with GameTwist, you receive XP points. This program gives you promotions to go to a different level. These experience points accrue as a percentage and are highlighted at he top of the screen. The more you play, the higher you’ll rise.

Whether playing casino games is your go to or you’re new to it, GameTwist has over 300 slot games so it’s almost like having a new game to play each day! We suggest, that you can enjoy a number of environments to play slots from the woods, magical realms, vampire, oceans, Egyptian, fruits and more. With so many games, we’re sure that you won’t be bored and will find various favorites that you will go back to again and again.

If slots aren’t your thing, there are additional games that can be enjoyed including online and live casino tables that have European Roulette, Lux Blackjack, Royal Crown Blackjack and Multiball Roulette. The live blackjack and roulette games actually allow you to play in real time with other players. Card games are also a part of this platform where players can enjoy poker titles such as Joker Wild, Deuces Wild and American Poker II. Proof that there is something for everyone, there are also games of skill that are included – Bingo (18 bingo games include Bruno Bingo, Crazy Cactus Bingo, Dynamite Bingo – to name a few) and Match 3 (similar to traditional slots with the following games: Jinxy, Sparkling Fruit, Secret Trail and Jewels). Within the same category, we know that Spite and Malice, Scopa, Sugar, Mahjong (our favorite), Bridge and Ulti.

With a number of games available, bonuses, playing with your friends on Facebook and more, GameTwist also organizes tournaments and competitions often. Playing these games allow you to have a number of rewards as well as to obtain free spins that will only enhance your gaming experience. Although this site is free to play, you have the option to purchase items at the casino which gives you more points and credits. These purchases can be made with a number of currencies like US Dollars, Euros and more. Creating the transactions for these optional payments can be done via Visa, PayPal, Bitcoin and more.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.