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Have you ever noticed that the majority of people in certain jobs seem to be a bit nicer that most other people? More solid? More honest? A little more high-level humans overall?

While there’s a wide range of personal diversity in every profession, there are some careers that seem to either attract or produce exceptional people. Exceptions to the exceptional exist, of course, but there are some jobs that people are calling out—with many people in agreement—as having the “coolest, most honest, most together people.”

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Park Rangers

People who care about nature, protect our public lands and help educate the public about good stewardship? Not surprising that Reddit users would call those folks solid human beings.

“Park rangers are some of the coolest, most genuine people you’ll meet. They care deeply about nature, are always willing to help visitors, and have fascinating stories about the wildlife and landscapes they protect.” – Sexy-Ass18

“Seconded. First thing I ever wanted to be was a park ranger, because the ones I knew were just the coolest.” – belligerentoptimist

“Can confirm all of this. One of my best friends from high school is a LEO ranger and actually now in a fairly major role at Yellowstone. She is seriously the coolest individual, absolutely one of the best humans ever. She went to school for wildlife education or something like that, but has gone to FLETC training and basically ran the internal prison at Yellowstone for a while. She is one of the most badass people I know. She told me once that they have millions of visitors per year. All of those visitors bring all of their problems (domestic abuse, drugs, alcoholism, theft, etc) to the parks with them, so…. the park had a prison for holding people until they could be turned over to other law enforcement. They also had particular people who would deal with visitors who died in the park, including liaising with families, helping arrange to get remains returned home, etc. And that happened regularly. Apparently national parks are a major suicide destination, which is incredibly hard on the rangers who have to deal with it. She told me stories about deaths at the Grand Canyon when she was there…. It was exactly as bad as you imagine it would be to deal with suicides at the Grand Canyon. They do not leave them there, so…. Yeah. And people have to clean it up. It’s absolutely insane all that goes on in the major parks that nobody thinks about.” – SpectrumDiva

“One of my college friends is a park ranger. He’s just the coolest guy. Always feel lucky when we get to hang out, get our kids all mixed up.

That being said, he’s raising fearless heathens. One picked up a snake and was like “it’s ok, we have the antidote in the truck.” while waving it at my poor, defenseless city kids. They just ran away haha. Park ranger friend made his kid put the snake back and gave him an earful about not harassing wildlife and city people.” – ButtWhispererer

Librarians

Lots of love for librarians out there.

“Honestly, from my anecdotal experience…librarians. Smart, consistently know how to deal with the greater public, great resources of knowledge, and live for the truth.” – SirVeritas79

“I have always loved the way they talk to me when I have a question. I never feel stupid or bad for asking. They really are a ‘people person.'” – SillyGayBoy

“YES! Agree! My wife and I have a couple of friends who are librarians and they are probably some of the smartest, most patient and kind people we know. And none of them are 280 years old, which used to be the stereotype I had of librarians because that was all I ever saw growing up. One of those friends is married to a childhood buddy of mine – they are both in their late 40s – been together since their 20s. When they first met I was shocked that someone so young was a librarian lol but also thought it was awesome. I’ve told them both many times that they can’t ever get divorced because we are keeping both of them ha ha

“Seriously though librarians are community treasures and a way underrated profession. 💯” – Intrepid_Detective

“I worked at as a children’s librarian assistant for 3 years. It was awesome. People there were so chill, easy to get along with. Best office environment ever. Good stable government job, no need to constantly apply for grants or hustle. And knowledge all around.” – kathmhughes

“As a librarian, I’ve often remarked that the best part of the profession is other librarians.” – thatbob

Bass Players

“Bass players in a jazz band…best job in the world I might add.” – myobservationonly

“Bass players in general honestly. Which is a tough thing to admit as a guitarist.” – tintedwithrose

“As a pianist who usually plays right next to them…agreed. Bassists are my homies.” – Casul_Tryhard

“As a drummer I totally agree. My bass player is probably the most talented member of our band, but he’d rather put everyone else in the spotlight. Also, even though he’s super frugal he will gladly pay for dinner and drinks and buy us tickets to shows. He’s a great guy and I’m really proud to say he’s my friend.” – Childish_Calrissian

“Most of the bassists I’ve met are kind, selfless people. I think there’s something about the role of the instrument itself that attracts the kind of people who enjoy holding it all together without needing the attention and adulation that comes with it.

Of course, being a bassist myself, this could be complete bias lol.” – the_alt_fright

“Singer here. It’s true. Every bass player I’ve played with is an exceptional human. My wife is one and she’s my rock. The bassist I played with on Saturday has his own non-profit for homeless outreach. My main bass player makes incredible falafel wraps when we carpool, with sourdough pita from scratch.” – cha-do

Toll Booth Operators (but only in certain places, apparently)

Oddly enough, some toll booth operators in certain countries and specific places in the U.S. got a shout-out for being utterly delightful.

“In Japan, for some inexplicable reason, tollbooth operators. Everytime I take the freeway, those people are the friendliest, cheeriest, just overall nice people I meet in a month. Zero clue why.” – festoon_the_dragoon

“It’s actually the same here in Ireland. Always wondered why but they are super friendly every time you go through.” – 5Ben5

“The toll booth operators on the Mackinaw Bridge are all super nice.” – HalfaYooper

“I’ve actually had pretty positive experiences for the most part while using tolls in the northeast US! Pretty shockingly friendly people. To the point where my partner and I were like, ‘how do you think they stay so cheery while literally sitting in the middle of a highway for hours on end?'” – Outandabout2023

“A few weeks ago I was driving to Topeka, KS and the toll booth operator was so friendly and asked me if I was doing anything fun in Topeka while I was there. I told her I was just picking up a movie from Vintage Stock but she was so friendly and the best part of my mini road trip from KC. I’ve actually never had an unfriendly Kansas toll booth experience.” – i_n_c_r_y_p_t_o

Geologists

“Every geologist I ever met has been a pretty interesting, humble and enjoyable person to be around. Somebody who works in the field will probably reply back and disagree, lol.” – LittleKitty235

“My father was a geologist, in the 70s he quit working for (major US oilco) because they wanted him to falsify data. So, yeah, they’re honest. My dad told me once that it was one of the most romantic of the sciences…it wasn’t the study of rocks but of how planets are formed, and therefore life. I so miss him.” – WorldBiker

“Came here to say Geologist and surprised to see it near the top. We are awesome haha!” – Latchkey_Wizzard

These responses also prompted a flood of geologist puns, which pretty much rocked:

“They probably had a good foundation growing up.”

“Agreed. Very down to earth and grounded in reality.”

“I think they just don’t try to find faults in people.”

“They’re good at digging beneath the crust of a person and seeing what’s on the inside.’

“Generally speaking, rock solid people.”

“They focus on having good mantle health.”

“At their core, they accept the fluid nature of existence.”

“They’re really gneiss, and don’t take friendship for granite.”

“They’re truly sedimental people.”

“There has to be one or two who are full of schist though, right?”

“I bet they dig these comments!”

Local Beat Newspaper Reporters

“Print reporters who’ve covered the same community their whole lives are pretty amazing people. People like to glom together all media, but reporters with a civic drive are some of the most curious and honest people I’ve ever spent time around. If you want people who really want to get to the bottom of a story and operate from facts/evidence, these are people to pay attention to. We owe a lot of what we actually know for sure in society to the labor local reporters.” – SenorSplashdamage

“Very true, but they’re all nearing extinction. The ones I know are just struggling to make it to retirement.

I’ve been a media guy for nearly four decades. Print reporters are good people.” – Lincoln_Park_Pirate

“My uncle was a reporter in the Twin Cities his entire career. He wrote for the paper and local magazine. Extremely interesting guy who has a story about everything and seems to know the history of every patch of land and building in the area.” – evilhomer3k

“I live in a small-ish town (about 15,000 residents). For years, we had a local paper, but it eventually went under as it was not profitable as the world moved more toward internet news. So, for a few years, we had nothing. Then, a guy who didn’t even live in the town (but it was where he grew up) started an “online newspaper” and covered everything that went on (good and bad) pretty much as a labor of love and in addition to his job as a reporter at one of the much larger local papers. He makes a little bit of money from banner ads and sponsored ads, but that pretty much only covers his costs. However, he spends his time covering things in town, interviewing people, going to meetings, writing obituaries, etc. Plus, of late, he has taken some high school and college students under his wing and sent them out to report on some things in town. He is not obligated to do ANY of it – he’s not profiting from it in any way, it is of no advantage to him, but he does it anyway… That speaks volumes about his character to me.” – Madeline73

The human family is full of all kinds of people with a virtually endless array of personalities, characteristics, qualities and interests. But some simply stand out for their awesomeness and congregate in certain jobs, so here’s to the park rangers, librarians, bass players and others who have earned a reputation for being solid human beings we can all appreciate.

Some songs make people emotional. It may be because the song has special meaning for them or because the musical arrangement is so beautiful that it activates something within causing tears to flow. Babies are not immune to being moved by music but typically they don’t request the song that brings them to tears.

Jillian James posted a video to social media that shows her toddler son laying on her chest seemingly preparing for nap time. The little guys requests that his mom sing the lullaby, “You Are My Sunshine” but before obliging the request, James asks multiple times if he’s sure. Apparently, the sweet song makes the toddler cry every time he hears it. Nevertheless, he persists with his request to hear “sunshine.”

James knows what the result will be and checks one last time to see if the little boy is sure he understands what will happen, “you already look like you’re about to cry. Buddy, I don’t want to sing it if you’re going to cry.”

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The additional warnings did not deter the persistent toddler. He assures his mom he’s not going to cry but she has a sneaking suspicion that he won’t hold up against the melody of the song and sure enough, waterworks before the first line is finished. Not just a little tear filled eyes, but full on crying and commenters don’t disagree with his tears.

@jillianjames31 Every single night he asks me to sing “sunshine” but this is also his reaction when I sing it to him… idk what triggers this response but it equally breaks my heart and makes me laugh at the same time 😂 #youaremysunshine #sunshine #son #toddler #mama #momlife ♬ original sound – Jillian James

“you are my sunshine will always emotionally devastate me,” someone admits.

“To be fair, You Are My Sunshine makes me cry too,” another writes.

“Sometimes it feels good to listen to your favorite song and have yourself a good cry,” one person shares.

“He wants you to sing sunshine for the same reason I like to watch military homecoming videos I guess. Same reaction,” a commenter says.

Many people were not expecting the level of crying that escaped from the little boy and suddenly understood why his mom didn’t want to sing it. Maybe when he’s older he will understand why he listens to music that makes him cry, though sometimes it’s just a matter of needing an emotional release with no larger reason outside of that. Poor little guy, sometimes we all just need a cry.

The world of pain management is changing quickly, and it’s largely thanks to the benefits CBD cream offers. CBD cream is formulated with hemp oil and is applied topically to penetrate the skin and ease pain and swelling caused by arthritis, orthopedic injuries, or muscle overuse. Whether you’re trying to avoid prescription pain relievers or are looking for a more natural and effective topical pain product, CBD creams are well worth considering.

What Is CBD?

CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant and hemp plant. Unlike THC, it’s non-psychoactive and won’t make you feel high. CBD has a long list of potential benefits, including relaxation and sleep support.

This compound is used to make various hemp products, including gummies, drinks, and CBD oil. CBD cream is the unsung hero of hemp products, and it can help to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Unlike oral CBD oil, which provides general pain relief, CBD cream is applied topically and delivers targeted relief where it’s needed most. CBD oil, cream, and other infused products are federally legal if they’re derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC based on dry weight.

Topical cannabis cream doesn’t enter the bloodstream, so even if a product is made with full-spectrum hemp extract and contains traces of THC, it won’t cause you to fail a drug test. Many customers use topical CBD daily and applaud its effectiveness, saying it relieves discomfort and swelling.

Potential Benefits of CBD Creams and Lotions

Here’s a closer look at the key health benefits people often experience with hemp topicals.

Pain Relief

CBD topicals may relieve both chronic and acute pain. People with arthritis often apply CBD cream to their joints, with many users claiming noticeable relief and improved mobility within minutes of application.

Athletes use topical CBD products to relieve muscle pain after difficult workouts. CBD can also aid in recovery, allowing athletes to train harder and longer with shorter recovery periods in between.

If you have an acute injury, such as a sprained ankle or stress fracture, applying CBD cream to the affected area may provide relief. People who prefer to avoid prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers often find topical CBD to be an effective, natural, non-addictive alternative.

Reduced Inflammation

Hemp cream not only relieves pain but also reduces swelling. Pain and swelling often go hand-in-hand, especially with chronic conditions like arthritis. By alleviating inflammation, topical CBD could further ease pain and enhance mobility.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a good remedy for migraines and headaches, which often have an inflammatory component. Applying hemp cream to the forehead and neck can lessen inflammation, reducing nerve pressure and minimizing the severity and frequency of headaches and migraines.

Softer, Healthier Skin

Most CBD creams are formulated to be gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. They contain ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and essential fatty acids with moisturizing and anti-aging properties. As such, you may notice an improvement in skin health after using a CBD topical like cream or CBD oil lotion. Some brands even make specialized CBD creams to help manage rosacea and other skin conditions.

Stress Relief

Physical discomfort can lead to stress, and high stress levels can further exacerbate pain. CBD cream works to soothe both pain and stress simultaneously.

CBD topicals made with full-spectrum hemp extract typically contain additional active hemp compounds. These compounds—including terpenes, THC, and minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG—work in conjunction with CBD to assist with stress relief. So, if you’re seeking to manage both pain and stress, be sure to look for CBD cream made with full-spectrum hemp extract.

Better Sleep

Many people take CBD oil before bedtime for sleep support, but CBD topicals can also promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep. They’re especially helpful if your discomfort frequently keeps you awake. Just apply some CBD oil lotion, and before long, you’ll feel mentally and physically relaxed enough to drift off into dreamland.

Again, if your goal is better sleep, a CBD product made with full-spectrum hemp extract is the best choice. The extra terpenes and cannabinoids in full-spectrum hemp extract enhance the sleep-inducing effects of CBD topicals. Furthermore, lavender oil can help promote relaxation, so look for creams made with this ingredient.

How CBD Works for Pain Management

Research on how CBD relieves aches, soreness, and discomfort is ongoing. According to existing evidence, CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system. It binds with CB1 and CB2 receptors, triggering the release of various neurotransmitters associated with pain relief.

CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing swelling in the body, it can alleviate pain. For instance, if inflamed tissues press on a nerve, taking cannabis oil or using topical CBD can reduce the inflammation, resulting in less pressure on the nerve.

Finally, CBD seems to relieve pain by managing the stress that typically accompanies physical discomfort. This effect is especially pronounced in patients with conditions like fibromyalgia, who sometimes get stuck in a loop where their pain exacerbates their stress, and their stress worsens their pain.

How To Use CBD Creams and Lotions

Using CBD cream, CBD lotion, or topical CBD oil is simple. Here are a few tips to help you use these topical products most effectively:

Who Should Use CBD Topicals?

If you struggle with chronic discomfort, inflammation, or achy joints resulting from arthritis, injury, or muscle overuse, using topical CBD daily can provide relief.

If you have sensitive skin, make sure the cream you purchase is suitable for you and made with gentle ingredients. Aim for products free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, and other potential irritants and formulated with all-natural ingredients like pure CBD oil from the cannabis plant.

More research is needed on the safety of using cannabis cream while pregnant or breastfeeding. That said, many health experts currently recommend erring on the side of caution and avoiding all products containing hemp extract—including CBD oil and cream—while pregnant or nursing.

Potency

Check the product’s potency and usage recommendations. Some CBD oil creams are stronger than others, so it’s important to follow the directions on the product label. Most topical products include detailed information on how to use them.

Ingredients

Choose CBD cream with moisturizing ingredients, like aloe vera and shea butter, to keep your skin from becoming dry.

If you have sensitive skin, look for CBD products free from synthetic fragrances and artificial colors to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Those with natural fragrances like lemongrass or lavender oil tend to be better tolerated.

Many CBD skin cream products contain peppermint oil or menthol extract for a cooling sensation and additional alleviation of discomfort.

Lastly, some manufacturers cut corners and use inferior ingredients—like parabens and fillers—in their products, so purchasing your cream from a reputable supplier is crucial. Look for options made with pure hemp extract or hemp seed oil and other natural ingredients. Ideally, the product should be third-party lab-tested with the results available on the company’s website. This type of transparency is a good sign that a brand is trustworthy.

Application

Apply CBD cream topically to clean, dry skin. Don’t apply it over makeup or to sweaty skin, as this can lessen absorption. Rub the cream into your skin to ensure it absorbs fully. Wait about 10 minutes before covering the area with clothing. Check the label on your CBD lotion for instructions and application tips.

Potential Side Effects of CBD Topicals

It’s rare for users to experience adverse effects when using topical CBD oil or cream. However, the following side effects may occur:

Skin Irritation

Skin irritation is the most common side effect of topical hemp cream and CBD oil lotion. The CBD doesn’t necessarily cause this; it can be a reaction to other ingredients in the cream, such as synthetic fragrances or cetyl alcohol. If you experience skin irritation, try switching to a different formula or contact your doctor for guidance.

Dry Skin

Some users experience skin dryness after using CBD topicals. You can avoid this by choosing a topical CBD oil, lotion, or cream with moisturizing ingredients like cocoa butter or aloe vera.

Drug Interactions

CBD can interact with or reduce the efficacy of certain medications, including anticoagulants, seizure medications, and some antidepressants. If you’re taking medications or supplements, check with your doctor before using hemp cream or any hemp-infused products.

Conclusion

CBD topical creams are a great choice if you’re looking for a natural way to manage physical discomfort. These CBD products are transforming the world of pain relief as more customers discover their benefits. They come in a wide range of formulas, many of which are cruelty-free. From roll-ons to lotions, there’s a CBD topical out there for everyone!

Every year, there are a few NBA players who just should not be at Summer League. This is not a rule thing, this is a “why on earth are you here we already know you are a good player” thing. Of course, teams have a reason for sending guys out to Las Vegas no matter what, but inevitably, there are a few players who are very obviously not going to play a ton from the moment rosters drop.

After scrolling through the rosters that teams put together for Summer League, we identified six guys from five teams that should show out in Las Vegas — and, if they do that, get pulled pretty quickly so they can avoid an injury that impacts their ability to suit up during the regular season.

Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets

What in the world is Brandon Miller doing here? Even by the normal standards of being too good for Summer League, Miller is WAY too good to be at Summer League, as he averaged 17.3 points per game last season en route to finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting. I would be shocked if he plays more than a game or two, unless the Hornets are hell-bent on getting him tons of low-stress playmaking reps.

Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis, Golden State Warriors

Porziemski started 28 games for the Warriors last season, while Jackson-Davis started 16. They both seemed to just get how to play within the Warriors system, as they were each willing to do whatever was asked of them. Maybe the team want Podziemski to get more reps on the ball, or maybe the team wants to see Jackson-Davis impose himself against rookies. But they shouldn’t play too terribly much after the first game.

Cam Whitmore, Houston Rockets

Whitmore going is strange because he fell in the 2023 NBA Draft in part because of concerning medicals revolving around knee issues, so you’d think they’d want to limit how much he’s playing. But regardless, Whitmore had a nice rookie year for the Rockets, as he averaged 12.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in only 18.7 minutes of work. He’s primed for a big second year, and I’d be shocked if he doesn’t show that in Las Vegas.

Ben Sheppard, Indiana Pacers

Sheppard is probably the player on this list who could most use a full Summer League, I’m just including him because we saw how he earned Rick Carlisle’s trust in the playoffs. That is extremely hard for a rookie, and he even started the team’s final two games against the Boston Celtics. Getting him reps is a good thing, but still, I fully expect him to be one of the best players in Vegas.

GG Jackson, Memphis Grizzlies

No one did a better job taking advantage of how hurt everyone was in Memphis last year than Jackson, who showed off the ability to fill it up — he averaged 14.6 points per game on the season, which got up to 20.4 a night once he started to get a consistent starting role towards the end of the year. He’s so young that he should get some Summer League reps, but if the ability to score that he showed off down the stretch is real, he is going to just overwhelm opposing Summer League players.

Netflix used to hand out series renewals like streaming sour candy. They have since pulled back on a “throw everything at the wall”-type volume, which is to be expected as various services feel out their places. Plenty of other factors weigh into this more reserved Netflix vibe, so when a renewal swiftly happens, you know they’re very serious about the show in question. That would be The Night Agent, which stars Gabriel Basso and quickly landed in the streamer’s all-time Top 10 TV Seasons list and is currently sitting at number six ahead of a few Bridgerton installments.

It also sounds like The Night Agent — a reigning entry in the latest crop of spy series hitting ridiculously high viewing numbers — already has a (non-greenlit) third season in its upcoming repertoire, and perhaps something related is afoot if a certain report is to be believed. Let’s discuss that report first and then move into what might come from The Night Agent‘s second season, which builds upon the story of a government agent job transforming into a most thrilling adventure in the blink of a phone call.

Plot

The second-season plot might actually be secondary to the an industry report from Deadline, which recently reported that showrunner Shawn Ryan achieved the rare feat of “sign[ing] a big, four-year overall deal,” which is “[s]aid to be in the eight-figure range with generous guarantees, has been described as ‘pretty remarkable’ in the current economic environment’” with Netflix. This deal has reportedly opened the door for a third-season The Night Agent writing room ahead of an official green light. Deadline’s Nellie Andrea further suggests that this deal “also would allow Netflix to easier scale up The Night Agent into a franchise with potential spinoffs that have been rumored” for over a year. Yep, stay tuned for possible spin off news (move over Queen Charlotte).

To get back to the second-season happenings, however, The Night Agent will continue with (at least a trio of) characters established in Matthew Quirk’s same-named novel with Gabriel Basso in the lead as Peter. This followup season, as well, will move past that book into uncharted territory (and Netflix has been careful not to spill too much of this season in its 2024 sizzle reel).

That is to say, the second season will move out of being D.C. based as Peter officially moves into the Night Action program. Much of the action has been revealed to take place in New York City and Thailand (where HBO’s The White Lotus and FX’s Alien series have both been hot and heavy in production this year). Gabriel Basso has also revealed that there will be “some unfinished business” with Hong Chau’s White House Chief of Staff Diane Farr, who was struck by gunshot in the first season finale. Whether she will be prosecuted and convicted for her traitorous position remains to be seen.

What seems more likely is that Peter will have a whole new learning curve while moving into his new job role, which should be more rewarding than sitting in a basement near a phone at night. The above report about a third season, however, would mean that he will grow accustomed to those duties, and perhaps Luciane Buchanan’s Rose (who will appear in the second season) will figure into his future plans, too.

Cast

In addition to Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, and Hong Chau, new cast members include Brittany Snow as Peter’s more experienced partner in the Night Action program. Louis Herthum will be on hand as a global-strings puller who employs an ex-Marine fixer portrayed by Berto Colon, and actors Arienne Mandi and Teddy Sears will be along for the new ride.

At present, Netflix has not revealed whether Enrique Murciano, D. B. Woodside, Amanda Warren, Eve Harlow, Sarah Desjardins, and/or Fola Evans-Akingbola will return in real time or flashbacks, respectively.

Release Date

The Night Agent is part of Netflix’s 2024 slate, although that could mean, say, October or December 31. The series did finish filming, however, and was understood to be using the summer for finishing touches.

Trailer

Sorry, no trailer yet, but BTS photos confirm a wrapped season.

In June 2023, Nelly Furtado made a musical comeback by joining Dom Dolla for “Eat Your Man,” which she performed with the Australian DJ at Coachella 2024. Last September, she teamed with Timbaland and Justin Timberlake for “Keep Going Up,” and more recently, she dropped “Love Bites” with SG Lewis and Tove Lo.

On Thursday morning, July 11, Furtado stopped by Today With Hoda & Jenna to officially announce 7, her seventh studio album, will be released on September 20. It will be her first full-length since 2017’s The Ride.

“I’ve worked so hard on it,” Furtado said. “It actually took me four years to make this album. I had 500 songs that I whittled down [to] only 14. Don’t worry. It’s not 500. It’s only like 35 minutes, but yeah, a lot of passion went in it.”

Furtado shared the presumed album cover artwork — a black-and-white photo of “7” painted on her bare back — on Instagram along with a lengthy backstory in the caption, which you can see below.

“How do you explain a song that took 2 years to make, in three different cities, with an army of people, and that’s just the ONE SONG named CORAZÓN

This is going to sound strange and stupid but this isn’t a job for me. It’s super personal. Music is my whole language and life and love and blessing, so sometimes it’s hard for me to wrap that up in a bow.

I first felt the energy of what Corazón would become on a trip to Colombia with a couple of friends and then I kept on recording and four years later I have an album, and it’s really always about the journey, honestly. That’s the sad part because you can’t relive the journey — the magic and lessons happen DURING the journey.

I made 400-500 pieces of music in 4 years. My ADHD doesn’t always allow for me to organize creations in a methodical way so it’s hard to explain how we have chosen 14 songs that magically rose to the top of the heap. Phew – they come together just by nature of being in the same collection, 7, kind of like random seashells that may be similar but not at all alike. So this album can’t be listened to like audio wallpaper, or maybe it can depending on how you like to enjoy music but I don’t even care if you skip songs, it’s up to you how to enjoy it. I really mean that. My only intention was to provide some portals to trip out and release and escape. I badly need music every single day. I badly need songs to listen to every single day. My brain doesn’t even work without music.

Anyways, I’ll TRY to explain the process in some photos and videos and storytelling but I know that I experienced it all and cried the tears and made the friendships and felt the joy and fear and pain and I learned a lot and that’s all that matters.

What is cool, though, every time I would doubt myself I would see the number 7 everywhere.

Love you

Also, I did not freaking do this ALONE by any measure.
Thank you to EVERYONE WHO I MET AND MADE MUSIC WITH AND MADE STUFF WITH ON THIS ENTIRE JOURNEY UP UNTIL NOW YOU ARE ALL SO PRECIOUS TO ME FOREVER AND EVER AMEN.

My album 7 coming 9/20

Bye, making more songs…”

Sabrina Carpenter can do it all — from producing two “Song Of The Summer” candidates in “Espresso” and “Please Please Please” to constantly inventing new ways to go viral. Her vast skill set does not include successfully eating hot wings, however.

On Thursday morning, July 11, Carpenter served as the latest guest on Hot Ones and openly struggled with the wings. She attempted to hold a normal discussion about protecting her voice, loving The Beatles, and fielding critiques of her “Espresso” hook. She didn’t completely fail, but she did have to interrupt host Sean Evans to warn him, “I’m a snotty girl, by the way.” That devolved into flailing panic, and the exclamation point was Carpenter doodling a portrait of her and Evans eating hot wings with her speech bubble saying, “I AM HAVING A HARD TIME.”

Everything Carpenter does has viral potential, and so it stands to reason that this drawing will become the internet’s new favorite meme.

To end the episode, Carpenter promoted her upcoming album, Short N’ Sweet, and emphasized, “Notice I didn’t call it Short N’ Spicy because I like sweet things better.” Carpenter revealed the album’s tracklist earlier this week, and it will be released on August 23.

For now, watch Carpenter hilarious stumble through Hot Ones above.

There are many respectable ways for actors to prep for physically demanding roles, like when Zendaya needed to learn tennis for Challengers or when Austin Butler had to change his entire personality to match Elvis. But sometimes you have to go back to the basics and learn how to…run. This is what Daisy Edgar-Jones had to do prep for Twisters, something her former co-star Paul Mescal teased her for.

In a recent interview, Edgard-Jones told Variety, “I’m not good at running; like I have a weird run, which I was told as a kid. And for me, that was a big stunt — to try and make it look not pathetic. I did running lessons — isn’t that crazy?” She revealed. not only did she need lessons, but she must have trained harder than a Roman gladiator.

The actress then admitted that Mescal teased her lack of physical abilities. Even though she is a line dancing pro! She added, “Actually, Paul [Mescal] and I were laughing about it, because he was training for Gladiator II and I was training for Twisters, and obviously he had to be huge and I was like, ‘Don’t worry, I’m going to be right up there with you.’” Good think Mescal is always prepared in his short shorts.

In Gladiator II, Mescal portrays Lucius, the former heir to the Roman Empire who had to be jacked enough to hold a big sword and take on a rhino. It seemingly worked! On the other hand, in Twisters, Edgar-Jones portrays a storm-chaser who is caught between two tornados. Neither of these situations are ideal.

Twisters hits theaters on July 19th, while Gladiator II opens on November 22nd. Are you entertained or what??

Life is full of transitions, but few are as challenging to navigate as menopause. This process can cause uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms such as hot flashes, painful intercourse, and severe vaginal dryness. Thankfully, there are ways to relieve menopausal symptoms. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), dietary supplements, and lifestyle changes can help reduce hot flashes, relieve vaginal dryness, and mitigate other menopausal symptoms, allowing you to comfortably transition into the next chapter of your life.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural process that marks the end of a person’s monthly menstrual periods. This is caused by the loss of ovarian follicular function and reduced production of the hormones estrogen, progesterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), and testosterone. Doctors typically diagnose menopause if menstruation hasn’t occurred for at least one year.

Hormonal birth control—including birth control pills and hormonal intrauterine devices—causes menstrual cycle changes and can mask symptoms of menopause, making it difficult to detect the start of perimenopause—the period before menopause during which the ovaries produce estrogen at a slower rate.

Who Experiences Menopause?

Menopause affects people with uteruses who are typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. Some people experience menopause before the age of 40, which is often referred to as early menopause. Research indicates smoking is one possible cause of premature menopause.

Anything that damages the ovaries or stops the body from producing estrogen (like hysterectomy, ovary removal, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy) will cause symptoms of menopause.

How Long Does Menopause Last?

The duration of perimenopause and menopause varies between individuals. Perimenopause can last between two and eight years.

While most people experience menopausal symptoms for less than 5 years, they can last between 7 and 11 years for some. Genetics and lifestyle factors can influence the length of menopause.

Menopause Symptoms

Menopause symptoms usually start during perimenopause and can impact day-to-day life. Here are some typical symptoms of menopause:

Menstrual Changes

During perimenopause, changes in the frequency and duration of menstrual periods are common. Additionally, some may experience spotting between periods.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Vasomotor symptoms of menopause (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats, are also common. Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of heat in the upper body. Red blotches and profuse sweating can occur during hot flashes, and you may experience chills afterward. Low estrogen levels also cause nighttime hot flashes, known as night sweats, which often disrupt sleep.

You can relieve hot flashes by drinking ice-cold water, removing a layer of clothing, and using a fan when you feel a flash coming on.

You can also treat hot flashes by identifying and avoiding triggers such as stress and spicy foods. Medical treatment can help manage severe hot flashes.

Vaginal Dryness

Low estrogen levels during menopause can cause vaginal dryness, resulting in discomfort, itching, and burning. Vaginal dryness can also cause small tears in thinner vaginal tissues, causing pain during sex.

You can treat vaginal dryness with an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer. Estrogen therapy in the form of low-dose vaginal preparations is also an effective treatment for many. Additionally, using a water-based lubricant can help prevent pain during intercourse.

If you prefer natural remedies over vaginal moisturizers, low-dose vaginal products, and other medicines, then herbal supplements—like sea buckthorn oil—and vitamins D and E may be helpful.

Mood Changes

Mood swings can make you feel irritable one minute and teary the next. Getting enough sleep, staying active, and reducing stress can help mitigate mood changes and enhance your overall well-being.

Depression and Anxiety

Menopausal symptoms and hormonal changes can cause depression and anxiety. Adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity can reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience severe depression during menopause, as this may require therapy, medication, or both.

Urinary Incontinence

Decreased estrogen levels can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and urethra, making it hard to hold in urine long enough to get to a bathroom; this is known as urinary urge incontinence. Some individuals also experience urinary stress incontinence, whereby sneezing, laughing, or coughing can cause a leak of urine.

Physical therapy, maintaining a healthy weight, and doing Kegel exercises can help with these urinary symptoms. Products like incontinence pads, pessaries, and urethra caps can help contain urine leaks.

Brain Fog

Problems with focus and memory affect about two-thirds of menopausal individuals. Simple practices—like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, staying socially active, and engaging in mentally challenging activities—can reduce brain fog.

How To Treat Menopause Symptoms

Menopause treatment options—such as menopausal hormone therapy and vaginal estrogen—can help relieve hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms associated with menopause.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or estrogen therapy, can alleviate hot flashes, painful intercourse, and other menopause symptoms by using bioidentical hormones to replenish estrogen levels.

Progesterone hormone therapy may also be needed to protect the womb lining from the effects of estrogen hormone therapy. Taking progesterone and estrogen together is known as combined hormone therapy.

Different menopausal hormone therapy mediums include:

• Skin patches
• Tablets
• Implants
• Topical gels and sprays.

If you have a low sex drive that persists after systemic hormone therapy, your healthcare provider may recommend testosterone.

Benefits of Menopausal Hormone Therapy

While the effects of hormone therapy vary depending on individual factors, hormone replacement therapy is considered one of the most effective ways to treat menopausal symptoms and reduce the risk of conditions associated with menopause including osteoporosis, liver disease, uterine cancer, and heart disease.

Health Risks of Hormone Therapy

Menopausal hormone therapy is considered safe for most women, but that doesn’t mean it’s without possible health risks—especially for those with pre-existing conditions or a family history of blood clots, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Menopausal hormone therapy may not be safe for some and should be discussed with your healthcare provider if you have a family or personal medical history of any of the following:

• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Heart disease risk factors (e.g., high cholesterol and high blood pressure)
• Breast cancer
• Gallbladder disease

Those undergoing menopausal hormone therapy may experience side effects including:

• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Hair loss
• Bone loss
• Diarrhea
• Leg cramps
• Depression
• Acne
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer

Non-Hormone Menopause Treatment

Alternative therapies like non-hormone treatments can help ease the symptoms of menopause if you decide against hormone therapy. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help manage depression and anxiety resulting from menopause. Clonidine, a blood pressure medicine, and gabapentin, an epilepsy medication are known to help with the vasomotor symptoms of menopause. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help with anxiety and low mood resulting from menopause.

Lifestyle Changes

On their own or in combination with hormone therapy, these lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in managing symptoms of menopause.

• Stop smoking
• Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption
• Eat a balanced diet
• Exercise regularly
• Engage in enjoyable activities to boost your mood
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Seek support from loved ones

Complications From Menopause

Decreased estrogen levels can result in long-term complications from menopause.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by bone loss and decreased bone density, which is caused by a lack of estrogen.

Hormone therapy may help protect against menopausal bone loss. For those who can’t undergo hormone therapy, other approaches to decrease osteoporosis risk are encouraged (e.g., staying active, taking calcium supplements, and quitting smoking).

Antiresorptive medications—like bisphosphonates—reduce the breakdown and absorption of bone tissue and can be used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal individuals.

Cardiovascular Disease

The decline in estrogen during menopause increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The rates of coronary heart disease are three times higher in menopausal women. To mitigate this risk, those experiencing menopause are advised to maintain a healthy and balanced diet and exercise regularly.

Conclusion

A decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can result in a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional changes in the body. Hot flashes, vaginal discomfort, mood swings, incontinence, and other symptoms can significantly impact daily life. However, there are ways to manage menopause symptoms. Hormone therapy has proved successful in treating symptoms by replenishing estrogen and progesterone levels. For those who are unable to receive hormone therapy for any reason, lifestyle changes, non-hormone treatments, dietary supplements, and other treatments can help alleviate symptoms. Discuss potential therapy and treatment plans with your healthcare provider so you can sail through menopause smoothly.

For those in the military, sleep can mean the difference between life and death. But shut-eye can be very hard to come by, especially during active conflict.

According to Sharon Ackman, the U.S. Navy Pre-Flight School developed a scientific method to help its pilots fall asleep. Through this technique, 96% of the pilots were able to fall asleep in two minutes or less.

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If pilots could fall asleep during war, you should be able to use it to knock out in the comfort of your bedroom.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Relax in your seat

Given the space restraints of a typical plane, the pilots were taught to sleep in a seated position. They put their feet flat on the ground, while relaxing their hands in their laps.

Breathe slow, deep breaths while relaxing every muscle in your face and letting your forehead, cheeks, mouth, tongue, and jaw go limp.

Step 2: Relax your upper body

Let your shoulders drop as low as you can. Allow the muscles in your neck go lifeless.

Starting with your dominant side, let your bicep feel like it’s falling off your body. Then move to your forearm, hand, and fingers. If a muscle isn’t relaxing, tense it first, then let it go loose.

Slowly exhale your tension.

Step 3: Relax your lower body

Tell your right thigh muscle to sink, then move down your leg, saying the same thing to your calf, ankle, and foot. Your leg should feel like it has sunk into the ground. Then move on to your left leg.

The final step is to clear your mind for ten seconds. You can do this by paying attention to your breath as it moves through your nostrils or holding a static image in your mind.

Once your body is relaxed and your mind quiet, you should slip away into darkness.

For more information on this sleep technique, check out Ackman’s Medium blog.

This article originally appeared on 04.11.19