ATHLEISUE BEAUTY

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UNDERSTANDING THE POPULARITY OF ONLINE GAMING

The rapid growth of the internet has led to the innovation of various useful online platforms. One of such is the online games that are seemingly still growing. And with the tremendous growth being witnessed on various social media platforms, there is no doubt that people are continuously looking for new and better ways to have some online fun. Since we are all different, we also tend to find comfort in various activities. That explains why the world will keep witnessing various innovations, especially when it comes to games, at least until the end of times. But then what's the real power source of online games? What keeps them so prominent? This article seeks to unveil all that and so much more. Be our guest.

The Accessibility To Fast Internet

The availability of the internet and faster internet speed to be precise happens to be a vital requirement when it comes to online gaming. This factor became more prudent especially with the introduction of incredible video games. But why is this so important? Let's look at it this way, with fast connection comes quick transition, which makes the accomplishment of targets much easier. It also almost instantly eliminates all the unnecessary, time-consuming pauses, glitches and messes and gives you and other playing partners ample playing time. So if your internet connection is top notch, then you won't have to experience connection cut-out on your favorite game spinning endeavors.

Additionally, speedy internet connection easily translates to superfast downloading time. So you get to download your favorite game from LiveMobile99 and start playing within seconds. Therefore, there is no doubt that online games have really increased their popularity thanks to the present times steady internet connection in various parts of the world, including some remote areas. And the fact that you can easily access games 24/7 makes it even more exciting. It has also in some way been made possible with the presence of the cloud.

This is something you wouldn't enjoy with a slow connection. Imagine having to endure all those annoying pauses and having to start your game all over again? Very frustrating, right?

Social Media Platforms Changed The Way People Communicate

Currently, the world is full of extension service providers. And with the overwhelming competition rates, each one of them is trying the best they can to maintain and increase their audience reach. Gone are the days game lovers used to heavily depend on online messaging systems for daily interactions. Nowadays the increasing level of social interactions has taken center stage in the world of online gaming. Little by little, people are rapidly embracing the use of online screens and microphones to communicate.

Other social media platforms such as Facebook has jumped at the opportunity to allow its users to expand their online presence and have lots of fun, by allowing them to use their accounts for direct connections with various gaming sites. This has brought a little bit of realism into this sector as people get too warm towards each other through sharing their photos and seeing real faces.

Also, this means that online game lovers can easily interact and form long-term online-friendships with others across the globe. It's a totally new experience that almost everyone (of course in the gaming sector) could not waste an opportunity to try. So the more people wanting to be part of this fast-rising global movement, the higher the demand for various types of games and the greater the popularity of online gaming.

Variety Tones Down Boredom

Imagine having to play the same type of game every single day or even several times a week? How long will it take for you to sink into the boredom spot? Of course not that long, well, unless you're a rare kind of breed that enjoys repeating same concepts and routines. As already mentioned above, the increase in the demand for online games quickly leads to the innovation of various plays to cater to market demand. Of course, since the demand is huge and from all over the globe, there's no way one company can step-up and fill the gap. This has lead to the emerging of various online gaming service providers with various specialties.

Therefore, once you get acquitted with the concept of a particular game provider, you can easily move from one platform to the next in search of a more challenging game. The fact that you have the power to choose what you want to play and at what time, doesn't leave room for boredom. As it's, there is no way two extinct service providers can present an idea the same way. It's that uniqueness that keeps things more exciting, making people glued to their screens with an anticipation of what to expect next. Think of car games, shooting games, candy games all the way to farm games, it's evident that all the fun lies in the variety. And so long as this trend continues, you can be sure that you haven't seen the end of online gaming yet.

Gives An Opportunity To Skill Improvement

Like any area in life, joining the online gaming sector doesn't only revolve around getting a computer and fast internet connection. In facts, it calls for much more and that includes a commitment from the players. But you cannot simply promote your commitment when you don't even know your way through the playing concept. So this is the reason as to why many gaming platforms have introduced a specific section where interested parties get to sharpen their skills by first learning the basic concepts of the playing before joining actual competitions. In some way, this acts like a coaching section to help players gain confidence.

Here you get to involve yourself in various games without being competitive. The required skills for each game is normally provided in form of simple clear instructions and some rules. Remember rules differ from one game to the other, so the more games you want to learn, the more information you will have to grasp. It's like attending a school with essential guidelines and most individuals are taking advantage of this to be part of the online world.

Embraces The Power Of Sight

Almost everything that our brain processes begin with sight. It's what we see that creates the greatest impact. And maybe that's why it's often said that " first-impression matters." Many individuals will gladly confirm having clicked on various online games because of the graphics they present. When we see something we like, it's natural to have a given form of connection to it. So if you as a player likes cars, guns or magical stuff, then you're also likely to get lured into playing games with similar appeal. Besides, you have to be interested in something to want to try it out. You can't build your curiosity around boring stuff.

Online players seem to understand this very well and that's why they dedicate a lot of time in the creative aspects of the game. They deeply embrace the use of graphics and a blend of colors to achieve their goal. This with a combination of playability significantly contributes to the success of these platforms.

The Secret Of Regular Updates

The world is undoubtedly moving forward at a fast pace and that seems to apply in every aspect of our lives. Everyday, people work towards improving themselves and embracing new ways of making certain processes much easy and convenient. Online game providers seem to understand this very well and have always worked hard to ensure their sites stay up-to-standard. That's why they tend to invest a lot in regular game updates. Through this, players get to enjoy new features, additional characters, and game goals. So they typically evolve with the world.

Developers enjoy so much freedom, get to implement their latest discoveries and players appreciate the convenience. This is one of the most outstanding benefits of online games that have managed to see the sector strongly stand against console games. Who doesn't enjoy trying out new things in this creatively advancing world?

The Affordability Of Online Games

Ever walked into a store to purchase your favorite game? How much does it cost? Of course, it doesn't come cheap, right? It even gets out of limit when it comes to newly released games. In fact, some individuals would prefer letting the dust and hype cool down, before purchasing that a new set of their favorite game. Not convenient at all. But what to do in these hard economic times?

Most individuals find the answer to the above questions on the internet; online games. In fact, it costs a fraction of the store prices to play the games online or even use the download option. So it's normal to have many people playing online. Can you imagine using the money you could have spent on one game to gain access to a variety, that too at your convenient time? Wouldn't you too want to join the movement and get to save some bucks?

Another option is to combine your contributions with your friends and get to soak in the fun. If this isn't enough reason for many individuals to want to play online games and understand the logic behind its popularity, then we don't know what is! The combination of saving and satisfaction has always been a winner. Don't expect it to change any time soon.

Gives You Real Opponents

Nothing can be boring as playing and winning against yourself. Is that even a game to begin with? Well, you might find some comfort playing against the machine but the real fun sets in with knowing you're tackling a real opponent. Someone with blood running through their veins and with probably the same or more skills than you. Doesn't it feel good to know there is someone on the other side of the machine all tensed up and psyched up as you?

Some game providers have even embraced the aspect of teamwork and have an option for team competitions. This makes online games seem line real-time games. People gather to cheer on their favorite teams and even place bets on the same. It's an interesting turn of events that has largely contributed to the popularity of this sector.

Gives Opportunities To Upcoming Developers

It's true that opportunities can present themselves anywhere and without warning. Some well-known developers found the opportunities to exhibit their talents through the internet. And this is one area that the online gaming sector seems to maximize very well. Over the years, various platforms have managed to come up with game development segments that allow their players to demonstrate their specialties in development. This isn't surprising as most individuals who enjoy online games tend to possess various tech skills that they can use to improve the industry.

Some platforms such as Steam and The Happy Wheels are known to give upcoming developers the golden opportunity to develop their unique games and add them to the platform's library. In some platforms, recently developed games have to go through thorough scrutiny, which might include voting by the players before being allowed into the pool. So basically, the more followers/players you get to love your game, the more popular it becomes and of you in the process. It's enough motivation to witness the fruits of your hard work. Therefore, so long as platforms like these ones continue to exist, online games will also continue spreading like world fire. In fact, you can look at it as a way of adding variety to the industry.

In Conclusion

If we look at the online gaming industry in terms of expansion and improvement, then we can attribute most of its success to the evolution of speedy internet connection. But then that cannot stand on its own. People have to be interested in the games and increase their demand for popularity. That's why the availability of social media, games affordability and multi-player features play a huge role in this aspect. Besides, there is so much fun online and the industry is undeniably headed to a bigger and better expansion. Be part of it, enjoy the games!

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PUMPKIN BEAUTY

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Pumpkin Beauty in mag.

THE PICK ME UP

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.

IN OUR BAG | AFTER THE STUDIO

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag | After the Studio in mag.

#TRIBEGOALS

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5 ICONIC ITALIAN FOODS THAT CAN TAKE YOU STRAIGHT TO ITALY

As an Italian myself, I can say with the utmost certainty that Italians love their food. Each bit of cuisine is a combination of different flavors that blend together in harmony. There are Italian restaurants everywhere, but few make you feel like you’re inside grandma’s kitchen. You know a good Italian restaurant when those are the words that leave an Italian’s mouth. Between the sauces and spices, the pasta, the meats, there is something unique in every dish that would please even the harshest of food critics.

Journey to Italy?

You don’t need to take a trip to Italy to experience the art of true Italian cuisine. Some of the best Italian food can be found right here. The authenticity of these different dishes can take you on a journey. You may even feel like you’ve been transported straight to Italy.

1. Focaccia Bread

The Focaccia al Rosmarino, or rosemary focaccia bread, is a simple, Italian classic. This baked flatbread resembles pizza, without the sauce and cheese. It is flavored with delicious herbs and is delicious dipped in olive oil. If you aren’t a fan of tomatoes, this table favorite is an excellent choice.

2. Burrata

You can never go wrong with the Burrata Pugliese. This lovely antipasti starter takes a few of the foods we love and combines them into a dish that will dazzle your taste buds. The burrata cheese is served with juicy cherry tomatoes, micro arugula, dried cranberries, and white balsamic dressing. This is a dish that pairs wonderfully with crispy Italian bread.

3. Lasagna

If you’re looking for the meat, lasagna has it. This take on a traditional lasagna dish combines homemade spinach pasta with a meat-based Bolognese sauce and béchamel, a white sauce derived from milk. The two sauces are combined between each layer of the pasta for an intricate blend of flavor. If you would like an additional flavor trip, try it with Parmigiano cheese.

4. Ravioli

Ravioli is a personal favorite, a very simple dish of pasta stuffed with cheese. However, the Ravioli alla Bergamasca takes the simple and intensifies it into a delicious blend of ricotta cheese, mild Italian sausage, fennel, and garlic. It is topped with a cherry tomato sauce and shaved Pecorino cheese. By this point, I’m sure you’re seeing a trend. We Italians love our cheeses.

5. Pizza

Pizza is probably one of the most iconic Italian foods. Though Americanized, pizza was actually invented in Naples centuries ago, and it exists to this day. It is like the focaccia, a flatbread, though it is covered with a tomato base and mozzarella cheese. There are a variety of toppings that have been added to pizza over the years. Still, you cannot get anything more authentic than a Napoli pie.

Welcome Home

With Italian dishes you get both quality and quantity from any chef. Why? Honestly, because we love food. It reminds us of home, and we would like to welcome you into it. So join us for an Italian journey and enjoy the food. Just make sure you’ve saved room for dessert!

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HOW TO DRESS | FOR TROPICAL GETAWAYS

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THE BIG BENEFITS OF MENTAL FITNESS

If you want a body that’s toned, fit and healthy, you’re going to have to hit the gym. It’s not rocket science: we all know that lifting weights builds muscle and jogging improves cardiovascular health. What many of us don’t realize, however, is that similar principles apply when it comes to our brains. In this article, we discuss the idea of mental fitness and what you can do to keep your brain in tip-top condition.

What is Mental Fitness?

Quite simply, mental fitness involves taking steps to improve your psychological functioning. We’re not talking about becoming a genius or performing superhuman intellectual feats – although research does show that it’s possible to strengthen your memory and boost a cognitive capacity known as fluid intelligence. Rather, mental fitness involves simple tasks that you can perform each day to optimize your mental and emotional wellbeing. Read on to learn more.

The 5 Parts of Mental Fitness

In the gym, there are various activities that can be used to improve parts of your physical fitness – from cardio to upper body and leg strength, for example. Similarly, mental fitness is made up of various attributes that can be reinforced using different techniques. Below, we discuss five strategies that you can use to increase aspects of your mental fitness.

Visualizing (Or Daydreaming)

Visualization makes use of mental imagery, or daydreams, to improve your mental fitness. You might, for example, visualize yourself achieving a personal or career-related goal. Alternatively, you may imagine yourself taking the steps that you need to get where you want to be in life. Such forms of visualization have been shown to stimulate brain networks that are involved in motivation and goal-directed behavior.

On the other hand, visualization can also calm you down when you’re feeling stressed, thereby improving your focus and creativity. People usually accomplish this by visualizing themselves in a physical environment (real or imaginary) that feels safe and nurturing.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a form of Buddhist meditation. This technique requires you to focus on the present while accepting your moment-to-moment experience without judgement. Mindfulness represents a simple technique that you can implement at any point of your daily routine.

For example, you may choose to engage in mindful eating, where you focus on the flavors, smells and physical sensations that arise during a meal. Alternatively, you could choose to practice mindfulness while showering or brushing your teeth, paying close attention to your sensory experiences while bringing your focus back to the task at hand every time you notice that your mind is wandering. Some people even use mindfulness to take advantage of the time that they spend performing a daily commute.

Optimism or Hopefulness

The way that we interpret the world influences how we experience life. Optimism and hopefulness are lenses that we can use to view ourselves and the world in a healthier way. Contrary to what some think, this doesn’t mean ignoring the negatives. Rather, optimism and hopefulness involve making a deliberate attempt to view the world more realistically by making sure that we’re also paying enough attention to the positives.

For example, cultivating optimism is about learning to acknowledge your own strengths and recognizing that when things go wrong it’s not all your fault. Hopefulness means realizing that the challenges you face will not last forever and acknowledging that adversity builds resilience. Additionally, optimistic and hopeful people differentiate between situations that they can influence and those that are out of their control. An important aspect of mental fitness involves accepting situations that cannot be changed.

Relaxation and Good Sleep

When it comes to relaxation, different strokes work for different folks. You might find, for example, that spending time in nature, doing some light cardio or listening to relaxing music does the trick. Alternatively, deep breathing and progressive muscular relaxation (where you gradually relax tension throughout all your muscle groups) are popular techniques used by psychologists to promote relaxation. These sorts of exercises help to reduce stress and anxiety, thereby improving your physical, cognitive and emotional health.

Practicing relaxation has the added benefit of helping you sleep better. Healthy sleep is a vital habit for promoting mental fitness. Research has shown, for example, that sleep allows waste products to be cleared from the brain at night. It’s also during sleep that our brains create new neural networks and move the information that we have learnt during the day into our long term memory.

Physical Fitness

With recent developments in brain imaging technology, we now know that the brain-body connection is incredibly powerful. Physical activity goes a long way in promoting mental fitness – not just physical health. For example, research shows that exercise can boost your cognitive functioning, increase your energy and improve your self-esteem.

Exercise also provides mood-boosting endorphins and reduced levels of cortisol – a stress hormone that can negatively affect your health in many ways. Importantly, you don’t need to be running marathons to see the benefits. Evidence suggests that even a simple daily stroll can be enough to promote mental fitness by boosting your creativity, concentration and memory.

The Benefits of Mental Fitness

The benefits of the mental fitness techniques that we have discussed today are broad. You can apply these skills selectively to reap the specific benefits that you require. For example, research shows that thinking optimistically can increase your overall physical and mental wellbeing. Mindfulness, on the other hand, can help you manage stress and combat mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

We’ve also discussed how visualization can improve motivation and mental focus; and how keeping physically active can promote mental health by strengthening the brain-body connection. Finally, relaxation techniques can reduce stress and improve your sleep quality, which can go a long way in fostering basic brain health.

Train Your Brain for Mental Fitness

One of modern neuroscience’s most exciting findings is that our brains are neuroplastic, meaning that they can change. The way that we think and behave can strengthen or weaken specific neural pathways. This means that we can influence the structure and functioning of our brains to maximize our emotional and mental wellbeing.

Of course, this is sometimes easier said than done; and brain changes don’t happen overnight. Neuroscientists agree that practice is the key to success when it comes to mental fitness. By incorporating the above-mentioned skills into your daily routine, you can start building the brain that you want today.

Haley Neidich, LCSW has her masters degree from Columbia University and is licensed psychotherapist who has been in the mental health field for over 10 years. Haley is the Director of Clinical Development for ThriveTalk.com an online therapy company that instantly connects you with highly trained and empathic therapists who help you to craft a plan for powerful change in your life.

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BINGELY STREAMING

BUSINESS WARS
Wondery

Netflix vs Blockbuster, Netflix vs HBO, Adidas vs Nike, Nintendo vs Playstation, Hearst vs Pulitzer, Beats vs Monster - we could list a number of business wars of titans that exist today and those that lost ther fight.

These business battles have shaped how we view brands, products, status and more and for those companies that exist, we're able to continue to watch their battles as they play out in real time.

Wondery's David Brown walks us through a number of business battles from their origin story, their awarness of their competitors (sometimes within the series a business engages in a battle with a new company). When possible, at the conclusion of the episodes focusing on a particular business battle, David interviews those who were a part of the company to find out more information on these wars. This is a highly bingeable show that takes you through a brand's history and brings an awareness to what it took for them to reach the success, pivots and failures that came their way.

MAKING A MURDERER S2

Netflix Originals

Three years after the docuseries, Making a Murderer appeared on Netflix (which followed Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey who are serving life sentences for the murder of Teresa Halbach), Season 2 drops this month. In these 10 episodes, both men are still serving their life sentences but this season is a followup of additional details and reporting that should give more context to this midwest case.

Season 1 of this True Crime docuseries focused on the theory that both men were framed by a crooked police system that planted evidence as well as creating an enviroment to instigate a confession from the men that they didn't mean to make. Since Season 1, there have been appeals and in June, the Supreme Court decided not to hear Brendan's case - both are still in jail.

This season focuses on Steven's lawyer, Kathleen Zellner and how she plans to fight the State of Wisconsin and how she is building her case. If you have yet to see the first season, it's highly suggested that you start with Season 1 as well as to follow @MakingAMurderer on Twitter for up to the minute news about this case.

THE ROMANOFFS

Amazon Prime Originals

With a stellar cast that includes Diane Lane, Christina Hendricks, Noah Wyle, John Slattery, Amanda Peet, Aaron Eckhart and more - this anthology series tells the story of people who all believe that they are descendants of The Romanoffs (Romanov), a Russian royal family.

The series spans over three continents with each of the 8 episodes taking place in a new location around the globe. Mad Men's Matthew Weiner writes and directs each episode which is released every Friday.

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Bingely Streaming in mag.

HOW CAN CBD GUMMIES BE BENEFICIAL TO YOUR LIFESTYLE?

Today, almost everything is being infused with CBD from bath bombs to vape oils, body lotions, bud and drinks for health benefits. CBD is a cannabinoid compound sourced from the cannabis plants, which raises the question of why a compound from a controversial plant is all over a sudden gaining popularity.

Although research is still being carried out on the effectiveness of CBD, its popularity has been due to its effectiveness in relieving pain and anxiety. In addition to people suffering from chronic conditions, other people using various CBD products like CBD gummies include those suffering from epilepsy, endometriosis, fibromyalgia and drug cravings among others.

Why Choose CBD Gummies

CBD gummies are right for you if you would like to take your CBD in edible form. Top CBD gummies are not your normal gummies. They are 100 percent natural and do not contain any trace of the psychoactive THC compound. They also come in various flavors and texture that is similar to the gummy bears to make them enjoyable. Furthermore, the fact that CBD gummies do not contain THC compound makes them safe and effective for patients cautious of the mind-altering effects of THC.Health effects of CBD gummies

Analgesic Effects

When you take gummies, the CBD interacts with your brain and immune system receptors to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that CBD helps to alleviate pain without triggering the side effects of other alternative powerful pain medications.

Reduce Anxiety and Depression

People suffering from anxiety and depression are commonly treated with pharmaceutical medications that usually trigger unwanted effects like agitation, sexual dysfunction, headache, insomnia, and drowsiness. Other medications are addictive and may result in drug abuse. To avoid suffering from the side effects of pharmaceutical effects, people are opting for CBD gummies to treat anxiety and depression naturally. To test the effectiveness of CBD in lessening and fighting anxiety, a group of 24 people with a social anxiety disorder were grouped into two with one group receiving a placebo while the other received CBD before a public speaking test. The group that took CBD experienced significantly reduced cognitive impairment, anxiety, and discomfort. Today, CBD is being safely used to treat anxiety and insomnia in children suffering from a post-traumatic stress disorder.

Alleviate Cancer Treatment Symptoms

Studies have shown that taking CBD gummies can help alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment. It has been proven that CBD helps in reducing the chemotherapy-related side effects like nausea and vomiting among other symptoms. Furthermore, although studies are ongoing, animal test tube studies have shown that CBD may have anticancer properties by inhibiting the spread of aggressive breast cancer cells in mice.

Neuroprotective Properties

Studies have shown that CBD has the ability to act on the endocannabinoid system as well as other brain signaling systems that offer benefits to those suffering from neurological disorders. In fact, the use of CBD among people suffering from multiple sclerosis has been proven as a safe and effective solution to reduce muscle spasticity, especially among individuals experiencing muscle spasticity that is resistant to medications. CBD is also proven to offer tangible benefits to people suffering from epilepsy, such as reduction of seizure activity.

Although CBD treatments are still in their early stages, their potential role in treating various health issues without triggering dangerous side effects has been proven. Other less known benefits when taking CBD gummies can provide include antipsychotic effects, anti-tumor effects, and diabetes prevention.

Read more from the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH WHITNEY PORT

We fell in love with Whitney Port during her days on The Hills as well as The City on MTV! We watched the rise of the budding fashion and PR girl through her internships, love life and more. With the reboot of The Hills coming back, we took some time to chat with one of our fave girls to talk about the importance of fitness, coming back to the show and other projects that she's working on.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We fell in love with you on The Hills and then seeing you step into the next phase of your life with The City! How did you get on The Hills and what was it like for you to be on this reality show?

WHITNEY PORT: I got onto “The Hills” pretty organically. I was an intern at WWD, and I was starting college in the fall in LA. I wanted another fashion internship, and Teen Vogue, which was in the same offices as WWD, was looking for interns. I decided to go in and interview. They told me that they thought I was a great candidate, but asked if I was interested in being on TV because they were starting to film a TV show there. I was unsure at first. They suggested I do a casting tape and see what happens. The next thing I knew I was called back in for the next on-camera interview with Lisa Love at Teen Vogue. Lauren Conrad walked into the waiting room while I was waiting for my interview. I then realized I was auditioning for her spinoff show because I had watched “Laguna Beach” and knew who she was. I had no idea that they had already casted me on the show. The rest was history!

AM: What made you decide that you wanted to continue onto the spinoff and what lessons did you learn from both shows?

WP: I really wanted to start my clothing line, and I saw the power that the show could have in terms of exposure. I joined the cast of “The City” because I thought it would be the perfect platform for me to launch my clothing line. I looked at itcompletely from a business perspetive. I also always wanted to move to NYC and thought that this was the perfect opportunity to do so.

What I learned is that just saying “yes” to things is so powerful and even though you may be scared, just say yes to more things. We are only young once and these opportunities fade so quickly so just really take advantage of these random fun adventures as often as you can.

AM: What can you tell us about The Hills Reboot?

WP: I cannot necessarily share so much at this moment, but we just started filming and its been really fun reconnecting with everyone. I’m excited for fans to see what we are all up to. It’s very different from how we used to spend our time.

AM: Are you excited to be back on the show - how do you think it will be different and what are you most looking forward to?

WP: It’s been ten years since we first started, and we all have grown up so much since then. We all have families and careers, so I think hopefully it will show a different perspective from a career standpoint as well as the intricacies of more mature relationships. A lot of the people that have watched the show have grown up with us, so I think they will be in similar places and have similar situations going on in their lives.

AM: Since being on the reality shows, we have enjoyed seeing you take on a number of projects from your clothing line, TV hosting and more - what are you currently working on that we should know about and feel free to share launches etc.

WP: I’m the Creative Director and Co-Founder of Bundle Organics, which is a tea, snack and vitamin booster line for pregnant and nursing women. We are launching 24 new items in Buy Buy Baby in the beginning of November, so I’m really excited because the new items are really delicious. I’m really excited to be a trusted brand for pregnant and nursing women, who have so many questions about what to put in their bodies and what brands to trust. I’m just excited to be that brand that they can look to.

AM: Health and fitness is important to us as well as to you. Why have you partnered with LACTAID and what is it that you enjoy about it?

WP: I’ve partnered with LACTAID because living a healthy lifestyle is important to me and real dairy is part of my balanced diet, plus I love the taste. I started buying LACTAID Milk because my husband, Timmy, is lactose intolerant. It has become a staple in our home.

AM: We know you created a LACTAID smoothie recipe, what's in it?

WP: Yes, after a good workout, I make sure to refuel with a smoothie made with LACTAID Milk, which has all the good nutrients found in real dairy without the discomfort of the lactose, so my husband Timmy can enjoy it too. The protein and sugar are just what my body needs after a good sweat. Check out the recipe below:

Ingredients:

1 Tsp cacao nibs
3 dates
¼ cup almonds
1 ripe banana
1 cup LACTAID® 2% Milk

Directions: Blend all ingredients and enjoy!

AM: What is your favorite healthy fall meal that you enjoy eating for lunch or dinner and what's a splurge food that you enjoy eating?

WP: My favorite healthy fall meal is my favorite meal year-round. I love steak. It’s always been my favorite food. My husband recently got one of those Big Green Eggs, so he grills the most delicious NY steaks and then we like to make a side of roasted potatoes. I also like an arugula salad for a side. My favorite splurge is French fries!

AM: What are 3 workouts that you enjoy including in your workout routine?

WP: Hot yoga is my favorite because it always feels so refreshing. I also like spinning and Pilates. I love a good sweat. I feel like my workout was worth it if I sweat out a bunch. Pilates is good for strengthening and lengthening. Spinning is just a really good release…

AM: We know you are based in LA, where would we find you working out, grabbing a bite/cocktails for date night and where do you shop?

WP: My favorite workouts are at Core Power Yoga, SoulCycle and Pilates by Amanda! My fave spots to grab a bite to eat are La Scala, Katsuya in Studio City, South Beverly Grill and my new fave Tocaya Organica! I just went to this AMAZING store called Mohawk in Los Feliz that had the coolest stuff ever! I wanted everything! I also love Only Hearts in Santa Monica for lingerie and Barneys just for everything!

AM: How do you balance the demands of being a wife and mother, stepping back into the reality world, running your other businesses/projects as well as taking time for yourself?

WP: I really just try to be as organized as possible with a shared calendar with my husband and all my work comrades! I try my best to be in the moment and stay present at any given time but I find that the need to plan always seeps in. I don’t really find perfect balance, rather I try every day to just be ok with the imbalance. It is REALLY hard and if anyone else has suggestions, I’d love some!

IG @WhitneyEvePort

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Hills Are Alive with Whitney Port in mag.

SOMETHING YOU SHOULD KNOW | THE SCOOP ON NAIL ART

Whether you see it on Pinterest, you're following your faves on Instagram, seeing your favorites on the red carpet and of course when you're at the nail salon selecting your favorite hues - the power of the nail is everywhere! From innovative shapes, techniques, nail art and more! We had to sit down and talk with Celebrity Manicurist, Sarah Bland who is also an ambassador of Smith & Cult to get the scoop on what we need to know about what's going on in nails.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What took place in your career that allowed you to include nail art within your portfolio?

SARAH BLAND: I think that most music videos that I have worked on and red carpet manicures that I have done require nail art to make it different from all the other celebrities.

AM: Who are some of your celeb clients that you have done nail art on?

SB: LaLa Anthony, Kelly Rowland, Jessica Alba, Paris Hilton, Zooey Deschanel and a bunch more that I’m not allowed to mention ;-).

AM: Can you share events that your nails have been a part of from Awards Season, NYFW shows and more?

SB: I tend to work on celebrities for different things like lifestyle manicures, red carpet, TV shows, concerts, and press/editorial.

AM: How did you become a nail artist and what inspires you in your work?

SB: I started painting nails when I was five years old, I’ve always had a passion for nails and nail art. I started doing nail art in fourth grade. A lot of natural landscapes and architecture inspire my nail art.

AM: What are your must haves in your nail kit and what do you suggest that we should have at home when we're in between our salon appointments just in case we have to do a touchup?

SB: A few must haves in my nail kit are rhinestones and glitter. I also never forget to have Smith & Cult Nailed Lacquer in 1972 because it is a client favorite. In between appointments to keep your manicure looking fresh, I suggest adding a topcoat 1 to 2 days after you get your manicure to avoid chips and keep it shiny.

AM: We know that you are a Smith & Cult Nail Ambassador, what does this entail and what are your roles/responsibilities there?

SB: As the brand ambassador, I create all of the nail art designs that are seasonal, I travel around the world educating salons and nail artists on nail art and about the product. I also do special events for the brand.

AM: We’re in the thick of wedding season - what 3 nail art designs would you suggest that are perfect for weddings? We’d love to know about looks that play with negative space, nail art for those that are not afraid to be bold as well as for someone who is new to including this within their look and wants to dip a toe in?

SB: I would suggest doing a very neutral hombre French manicure with negative space in the background, I also think very dainty geometric designs look great with neutral colors. For a bride that likes something very blingy, I would suggest adding glitter and/or rhinestones.

AM: In terms of nail care - how can you ensure that you are protecting your nails ESPECIALLY those that are frequent users of gel as we get many questions on the type of gels that should be used as well as how often can one do gels before they need to take a gel break?

SB: Unfortunately, it's impossible to ensure you’re protecting your nails these days because there are a lot of dangerous products out there that uneducated professionals use. Especially when it comes to artificial nails. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to stay away from drilling your natural nails. A lot of salons will even drill the soft gels to remove them which is extremely damaging to your nails and the laziest way of taking them off. I also suggest staying away from hard gel if you want to protect your natural nails. They are only removable with a drill which is very damaging. I tell my clients to take a break from gel every few months and to use Smith & Cult as the in between polish. In my personal experience and my clients’, I’ve seen drastic improvements of the health of my nails since I’ve been wearing Smith & Cult. It literally dries so quickly and lasts over a week without chipping! It is also 8 free so it’s almost like you’re repairing your nails without the nasty chemicals.

AM: Since you're based in LA, where would we find you this summer from grabbing cocktails and dinner with friends, shopping and do you have a fitness studio you like to go into?

SB: Rumble is my new favorite spot after I discovered it for the first time in NYC. Grabbing cocktails & dinner is super fun at Zinc or Gracias Madre on Melrose. Rooftop at the Nomad Hotel in Downtown LA is amazing for a fancy night out of summer cocktails. Shopping is a must downtown at the ROW. It’s a new historical development that has one-off unique shops. LA is always fun in the summer!

PHOTO COURTESY | via Sarah Bland's Instagram

IG @SarahBland

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Something You Should Know | The Scoop on Nail Art.

GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST WORT CHILLERS

If your beer has gotten to a place where it's honestly pretty good, but not quite where you'd like it to be yet as far as flavor and quality, then you might want to consider looking for a wort chiller sooner than later. They can improve the quality of your beer by leaps and bounds quicker than you realize.

Wort chillers function to instantly chill your hot wort combination to yeast rising temperature, assisting to lessen oxidation & resulting in an excellent-tasting beer. This process additionally cuts down on the probability of bacterial development which can spoil even the most meticulously brewed beers.

However, deciding on the right one for you can be a daunting task especially when there are numerous types in the market. Here's what you should consider when shopping for one of your own.

1. Only Buy Wort Chillers From Top And Trusted Brands

When it comes to items like wort chillers, it really pays off to go with trusted brands that have built solid reputations for providing quality at affordable prices that won't break the bank. For instance, there are companies which have been producing the very best counterflow wort chillers money can buy for years and years, so you really can't go wrong with them.

Don't forget to pay attention to consumer reviews as well, especially in regards to individual models! Researching what other homebrewers did and didn't like about a particular item will help you determine what's right for you better than any sales pitch or advertisement ever could.

2. The Type of Chiller Best For Your Needs

Wort chillers come in two basic types:

> Immersion

> counter-flow

Both types get the job down and get it done well, but you may find that one fits more easily into your personal routine than the other does. Immersion chillers are simple, cheaper, and easier to clean and sanitize. On the other hand, counterflow chillers work better at minimizing the amount of time the wort spends in the temperature "danger zone" when it's more susceptible to infection. They also get the job done more quickly than the immersion type.

Some homebrewers like to start with an immersion style wort chiller because of budgetary concerns and because of the ease of use and then upgrade to counterflow chillers later on down the line. However, you may decide that counter-flow is the better option for you right off the bat.

3. Compare Prices Online Before You Make A Purchase

While it's possible to locate used wort chillers for excellent prices, you can just as easily buy new ones if you check out what's available online. Online equipment suppliers don't have to pay for expensive overhead costs the way brick and mortar shops do, so they're free to pass the savings on to the consumer.

In conclusion, when you know what to look for in advance, even shopping for complicated items like wort chillers becomes a simple process, so don't let the newness of the concept intimidate you! They represent the perfect opportunity to send the quality of your homebrew into the stratosphere and your only complaint will be that you didn't have yours a lot sooner!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag

5 PIECES TO RUN IN FOR THE TCS NYC MARATHON

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 5 Pieces to Run in for the TCS NYC Marathon in mag.

STYLE FILES | OUTERWEAR

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Style Files | Outerwear in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | #35 OCT ISSUE

We released the Oct Issue a bit ago. This email lets you know that your product, brand, client etc is included in the issue. In addition, if you represent a number of brands they will be throughout the issue.

Our issue is covered by ESPN's Field Yates who is an NFL Insider for ESPN who contributes analysis, breaking NFL news and fantasy football insight year-round across the company's multimedia platforms. He appears on many shows, in addition to his host role on ESPN Radio and on ESPN Audio's popular Fantasy Focus Football podcast.

We also have a travel editorial called I'll Take Vermont with our recent trip to Stowe Mountain Lodge as well as our drive up with the GMC 2019 Canyon Denali. In addition, we have a fall editorial with DJ Eloy and model, Coco Yu/State Management rocking a number of looks in Party at Daybreak.

In addition, this issue included interviews with Jeff Franklin who trains elite canine dogs for the U.S. Military, we talked with Whitney Port of The Hills and The City about joining the cast of MTV's The Hills Reboot. This month's The Art of the Snack shares some of our favorite game time dishes from country music star and cook, Martina McBride with her new cookbook, Martina's Kitchen Mix.

Bingely Books, Bingely Streaming, Something You Should Know, Athleisure List, Athleisure Beauty and more roundups that focus on how to dress in a number of fall and getaway destinations.

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag.

CHOOSING ATHLETIC SHOES: 5 THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR

Many people spend a good portion of their day walking around in athletic shoes. Some of them wear them while exercising or competing in different sports. Others wear them while going to school or work every day.

There are many different athletic shoe companies on the market today. All of them offer different colors, styles and features for just about any need or want. New products are always coming out.

You can read more online about designer sneakers for women and other types of athletic shoes. You can read reviews and pricing information online at company websites. You can also examine and try out different kinds of athletic shoes at your local shoe store or specialty retailer.

Choosing the right kind of athletic shoe can be confusing. There are so many options to choose from. With that in mind, here are five things to keep in mind:

1. Know your foot size. You should have your feet measured at least once a year. Shoe sizes don't always correspond to foot sizes, so focus on buying a comfortable pair of athletic shoes that actually fits your feet well. If you're shopping in person, it's best to try on shoes at the end of the day, because feet tend to swell during the day.

2. Understand what you're paying for. Athletic shoes can range in price from around ten dollars to several hundred dollars or more. Because of this, make sure you know what shoe features help justify the price tag. For certain shoes, you're paying a lot more just because of the name brand. There may be other similar shoes on the market that work just as well and have everything that you need, but cost a lot less. Make sure the quality, durability and the features are worth the price you're paying.

3. Learn about the extra features. Different features are key selling points for many athletic shoe models. Shoes that have gel inserts provide good shock absorption. There are shoes that offer varied amounts of cushioning depending on the user's needs. There are also athletic shoe models that come in wide widths or come with built-in pumps that allow the user to customize their fit.

4. Consider what the shoes are going to be used for. Many models of athletic shoes are created specifically for different activities. There are basketball shoes, tennis shoes, cross-trainers, trail running shoes, and walking shoes, for example. That's why you need to think about what your new shoes will primarily be used for. This will help you narrow down the selections a bit.

5. Know when it's time to replace your shoes. A good pair of athletic shoes can usually last several hundred miles, but don't base your decision solely on that statistic. Look at them closely. If your shoes are losing cushioning in the heel or toes, the soles are starting to lose traction or crack, or if they just don't feel comfortable anymore, then it's time to replace them.

These are just a few things to contemplate when buying your next pair of athletic shoes. Because there are so many possibilities, it's worth the time and effort to research them before you buy. You want a set of shoes that are stylish and functional. You want them to last for many miles as you take on more future challenges.

HOW TO GAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE IN SPORTS

So, what, do you suppose, it takes to reach and maintain a competitive edge when competing at an elite level of a sporting competition? Training your body is one thing, but your mind is a whole other, separate issue altogether. And still, it is crucial if you, the sportsman or woman, consistently reach the peak of your potential. To get to the bottom of this poser, we have whittled down the main points of maintaining the psyche needed to install that competitive edge and then keep it, either in the face of defeat or consistently driving for success.

Be Passionate

If you even attempt to take on a sport or competition and lack the necessary passion only leads to another nameless player. Passion, also known as a drive, is what will inspire you to work harder and go further. The best footballers make it in professional sports because they put it the extra time after training or even initiate additional sessions to undertake in their time. Talent alone is not enough. It’s passion that makes you want to push yourself harder and achieve your goals to propel yourself beyond the average and into the elite. It makes you get out of bed every morning to improve your skill set. You must have a passion for your sport and to win, which, along with integrity and character, need to be on the top of your list.

Keep Learning

INFOGRAPHIC CREDIT | iPinimg / CC | Be the best you can be.

Firstly, any elite sportsman or woman will tell you that you can’t ever stop learning. That includes masters of their field. Think the Williams sisters, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer or Lionel Messi. These are perhaps the greatest of theirs or any other’s eras in their sport, all arguably the greatest of all time. All of whom who spent more than a decade at the top, who won it all and yet will be the first to admit that there is always something new to learn. With this mindset, these elites never rest on their laurels, accepting that there is always room to improve. This mindset also helps players like these to identify weaknesses, should they possess any, as well as highlight previously thought hidden potential distractions and illuminating remedies that can effectively deal with them.

Believe in Yourself

Arrogance is key. It seems apparent, but you must have faith in your talent and ability to achieve your goals. That, of course, is not to be confused with cockiness, which often serves only to inspire your opponents and typically foreshadows a fall. Instead, self-confidence provides players with a much-needed unshakable belief in one’s abilities. You must have complete faith in yourself, your talent, your abilities and your internal strength if you are to become the best version of you possible. Such, in turn, allows you to achieve your goals as an athlete.

An Optimistic Mindset

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Image Credit: Wikimedia / CC 4.0 Caption: One of the world’s most consistent winners: Michael van Gerwen.

Possessing a glass-half-full attitude rather than a glass-half-empty attitude is essential in maintaining a competitive edge in battle. That’s because you will, at times, need to bounce back quickly and resiliently in the face of defeat. Defeat, by the way, is sometimes inevitable, no matter how good you or your team are. It’s the nature of the sport. In poker, the term used is “tilt”. What this essentially means is that people must not let a bad beat (a bad run of luck at the poker table) to get the better of them mentally. Currently, in professional darts, Michael van Gerwen is so far ahead of his rivals that he is considered the outstanding sports star of the moment and still, even as the odds-on favorite week after week, he has still lost to complete outsiders a surprising number of times. Nevertheless, a week later when the trophies are handed out, there he is on the winner’s podium. It’s that ability to lock out previous defeats and keep a clear head and positive attitude that allows him to make winning titles look little more than routine. To that end, if you want to excel, then you, too, need to have a positive outlook that allows you to bounce back sharply, regroup and push on for the win.

Persistence Pays

You must keep trying in sports. Michael Jordan admits he missed 9,000 shots, 26 winning games, 26 winning shots and sadly, lost 300 games. Still, as the six-time World Champion said, “I failed over and over, that is why I succeeded.” According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, many sportsmen and women traditionally dedicate a considerable amount of their time to improving their physical conditioning when it comes to a sport. However, you must never overlook the importance of psychological preparation, which can be as critical. Every player will encounter pressure when playing a sport. It doesn’t matter if you’re a boxing contender competing for a championship belt or a world-class poker player playing Texas Hold’em or Omaha Hi Lo in a poker tournament, you need to dig deep every time you play, pushing yourself harder than you ever have before.

Become a Perfectionist

It is imperative that you must consistently strive to improve your weaknesses and build upon your strengths to become the best of the best. After all, did you get to where you are now by being complacent and doing things in a slack way? Of course, not. If you are to be a successful athlete, then perfecting your skills and honing your talent is an essential ingredient to any success that you hope to achieve. Utilizing the above-listed attributes gives you the heart of a champion and instills a winning mentality into your heart and will ultimately help you grow as an athlete or, who knows, even a poker player.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

CREATE THE ULTIMATE ME-CAVE

The battle over where to watch football players duke it out this season can turn into a turf war between men and women. One person wants to watch the big game on the big screen, and the other just wants some peace and quiet. Taking over the spare room for a solo sanctuary can often turn into a game of “He Shed, She Shed” — he wants a man cave, and she wants an indoor she shed. Instead of fighting it out, local couples are finding solace in the concept of the Me-Cave — the latest personal space trend in organizational home design. We talked with our friends at Closets by Design.

Research suggests couples blame their unhappiness more on lack of alone time THAN a boring sex life.

Utilizing a spare room, or even a small nook, as a spot for a multi-use retreat is a great way to make sure everyone in the home has a happy place. It’s easy to create a unique, organized Me-Cave that is suitable for anyone who occasionally needs some alone time.

Here are some ideas for the perfect Me-Cave both men and women can appreciate:

Creation Station – Instead of taking over the kitchen or garage when it comes time to hone your craft, move to a designated space. Using features such as a gift wrap station, organizing slots and craft supply drawers, Closets by Design can build unique hobby centers that will cater to everyone’s specific needs.

Hideaway Haven – Why not hang out in a room with your prized possessions — the ones that you don’t necessarily want to display in your living room, but you don’t want them hiding in your attic? Designing an organized space with adjustable shelves or slatwalls with hooks allows you to keep your collections out in the open, within the limits of your personal Me-Cave.

Break Room – This type of Me-Cave is where homeowners can meditate, practice yoga, read or simply take a break. Pros can add organizational storage features to the room, such as an island with drawers, to make it free of anxiety-inducing clutter.

Dream Walk-In Closet – A spare room can be used to create a clothes-filled oasis. Experts can build a closet system for the room that maximizes wall space, takes advantage of any windows, and keeps the area neat and tidy. Add a comfortable armchair or bench and you’ve got a Me-Cave that makes getting ready for work a dream!

Multi-Purpose Me-Cave – Your Me-Cave can also be a guest room or an office. A wall bed can easily be tucked away after your visitors go home, and Closets by Design’s office systems also make it easy to keep one half of the room for work and the other half for fun.

Read more from the latest issue of Athleisure Mag