huffpost--2020-03-21--27 Comfort Shows To Watch During The Coronavirus

My husband and I watched a “ 30 Rock ” episode earlier this week , after I referenced it in conversation and we decided to pull it up on Hulu .
Every night since then , we ’ ve watched one or two “ 30 Rock ” episodes ― it ’ s as funny and relevant as ever , and can ’ t be beat in terms of jokes per minute .
In this odd environment where we leave “ work ” at our kitchen table and walk the 3 feet to “ home ” in our living room , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reset and get our minds out of a social-distancing funk .
If anyone could bring me comfort during a pandemic , it ’ s Tina Fey .
― Abby Williams , deputy audience editor Yesterday , my best friend texted me saying , “ PSA , Gilmore Girls is really getting me through this week ” and I was so thankful for the reminder that this show — which has long been my go-to comforting TV show — is on Netflix .
But even before I ’ d heard from her , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Gilmore ” universe : For the last couple of weeks , I ’ ve been re-listening to the “ Gilmore Guys ” podcast , which was released from late 2014 to early 2016 .
The combination of the hosts ’ excellent back-and-forth , the roster of comedian guests , the topic at hand — and the fact that it was all recorded in what now feel like the halcyon days of 2015 — has been giving me a much-needed mental break from the news .
― Nora Biette-Timmons , copy editor I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so I ’ ve been told maybe 100 times over the past few years that I am missing out on the funniest send-up of my hometown in ages by not watching this show .
Stuck inside for the foreseeable future , I decided to give it a try and yes , the writing is great , the cast is awesome , and the ( many ) jokes about J-Vegas are perfect and on point .
I don ’ t know when I ’ ve enjoyed a network sitcom this much , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right now just a little easier .
The jokes about the fleeting nature of the human experience really put it over the top at this particular moment .
― Kate Palmer , head of HuffPost Life OK , I realize this is going to make me sound like someone ’ s lame boomer dad but the one show I have repeatedly watched over the years is the 1970s docuseries “ The World at War.
” Narrated by Laurence Olivier , the 26-episode series tells the story of World War II through eyewitness testimonials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at the time it was produced , the most expensive TV series ever made in Britain .
The story is crisp and generally unsparing in its detail , and the aesthetic reminds me of being a kid watching History Channel shows when I was home sick from school .
It ’ s one of only two DVD box sets I own .
― Alexander Kaufman , senior reporter “ Parks and Recreation ” ( Stream on Netflix , Amazon Prime or Hulu ) It follows the same formula each episode so you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
( I ’ m pretty sure Ted Allen has about 10 lines that he picks and chooses from for each episode . )
They throw in different themes to make it exciting and it ’ s fun to see where all the contestants come from , what inspired them to cook , and all the different foods they incorporate in their dishes .
You can let your mind drift in and out without needing to rewind and see what you missed .
— Hayley Miller , senior reporter In these truly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me comfort more than watching reality TV .
“ Vanderpump Rules ” is escapism at its finest , and features an array of personalities so there ’ s a hero and a villain for everyone .
The best part is that who you feel allegiance to one season can completely change in the next .
And don ’ t dismiss this show as useless programming , either : They ’ re doing a really good job this season of highlighting important mental health issues , like anxiety and depression .
( Yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) I love this show , and it ’ s the one program that is sincerely bringing me some respite from the news right now .
— Lindsay Holmes , senior wellness editor “ Star Trek : The Next Generation ” ( Stream on Netflix , Amazon Prime or Hulu ) I come from a loud but loving Jewish family , so this show is like a warm bowl of matzo ball soup for me .
Plus , it takes place in the ’ 80s and it ’ s nice to be nostalgic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this pandemic .
The acting , jokes and characters are all great — especially the side characters who begin to pop up in later seasons .
It ’ s also based on creator Adam F. Goldberg ’ s family , so there ’ s a lot of related fun home footage from his childhood that plays during the end credits .
Speaking of plots , admittedly the ones on this show are pretty formulaic , but at this time , that predictability is soothing .
— Elyse Wanshel , reporter Apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for me ( not really , but I couldn ’ t resist the turn of phrase ) .
Season 4 is particularly topical because a mysterious flu breaks out at the prison .
Since my anxiety is all-consuming and there ’ s really no way to get around it , channeling that anxiety into something fictional but relevant helps .
The idea of living during a pandemic was unfathomable to me a few months ago , so putting myself in these characters ’ shoes and watching them survive in a similar ( but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope for the real world and a — an albeit manufactured — sense of control .
— Wendy Lu , copy editor/producer

Disney The cast of "The Golden Girls"
Due to the coronavirus, multiple cities have already entered lockdown. Sports ― as a whole entity ― are canceled. But never fear: Streaming television is an excellent way to pass the time for those stuck at home with limited entertainment options. Indeed, Nielsen predicts that Americans will spend up to 60% more time with streaming services over the next few weeks of self-isolation. And with the anxiety and fear that comes with this particular situation, turning to a “comfort show” makes a lot of sense.
Put another way ― it’s time to make like Liz Lemon and wrap up in a Slanket with some cheese on the couch and melt into contentment with content.
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NBCUniversal Tina Fey as Liz Lemon in "30 Rock."
To get an array of recommendations for “comfort shows,” I asked my wonderful HuffPost colleagues to share what they’re turning to during this crisis. The suggestions range from comedies to reality shows to stories that fully lean into dystopian narratives (to each their own).
Read on for the full list.
And if you’d like yet more recommendations, I also put together a list of comedies with a hint of absurdity to match the moment this week.
Ji Sub Jeong/HuffPost Streamline
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“30 Rock” (Stream on Hulu or Amazon Prime)
My husband and I watched a “30 Rock” episode earlier this week, after I referenced it in conversation and we decided to pull it up on Hulu. Every night since then, we’ve watched one or two “30 Rock” episodes ― it’s as funny and relevant as ever, and can’t be beat in terms of jokes per minute. In this odd environment where we leave “work” at our kitchen table and walk the 3 feet to “home” in our living room, this show is the perfect way to reset and get our minds out of a social-distancing funk. If anyone could bring me comfort during a pandemic, it’s Tina Fey. ― Abby Williams, deputy audience editor
Yesterday, my best friend texted me saying, “PSA, Gilmore Girls is really getting me through this week” and I was so thankful for the reminder that this show — which has long been my go-to comforting TV show — is on Netflix. But even before I’d heard from her, I had been finding solace in the broader “Gilmore” universe: For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been re-listening to the “Gilmore Guys” podcast, which was released from late 2014 to early 2016. The combination of the hosts’ excellent back-and-forth, the roster of comedian guests, the topic at hand — and the fact that it was all recorded in what now feel like the halcyon days of 2015 — has been giving me a much-needed mental break from the news. ― Nora Biette-Timmons, copy editor
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I grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, so I’ve been told maybe 100 times over the past few years that I am missing out on the funniest send-up of my hometown in ages by not watching this show. Stuck inside for the foreseeable future, I decided to give it a try and yes, the writing is great, the cast is awesome, and the (many) jokes about J-Vegas are perfect and on point. I don’t know when I’ve enjoyed a network sitcom this much, and it makes my inability to get back home right now just a little easier. The jokes about the fleeting nature of the human experience really put it over the top at this particular moment. ― Kate Palmer, head of HuffPost Life
Almost 20 years on since it was first broadcast, the themes of this Ricky Gervais/Stephen Merchant show never get old. Two seasons and a holiday special, I dare you not to sob at the Tim/Dawn finale. ― Lee Moran, reporter
Everything is scary right now, so it’s nice to turn to a show that’s fun, sometimes silly and ultimately inspiring. The show’s telenovela-style drama and romance are a good distraction from the world, and its focus on how families and friends can come together to cope with real-life struggles is a reminder that there are things we can all do to support each other during troubling times. ― Elise Foley, deputy enterprise editor
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“The World at War” (Available on DVD)
OK, I realize this is going to make me sound like someone’s lame boomer dad but the one show I have repeatedly watched over the years is the 1970s docuseries “The World at War.” Narrated by Laurence Olivier, the 26-episode series tells the story of World War II through eyewitness testimonials and extensive black-and-white footage, and was, at the time it was produced, the most expensive TV series ever made in Britain. The story is crisp and generally unsparing in its detail, and the aesthetic reminds me of being a kid watching History Channel shows when I was home sick from school. It’s one of only two DVD box sets I own. ― Alexander Kaufman, senior reporter
Oddly enough, I really enjoy streaming “Westworld” these days. There is something comforting about watching sentient, human-like robots slowly becoming self-aware, discovering a new purpose, and taking back power from their overlords. It’s a perfect fantasy. — Carla H. Russo, Reporter
“Parks and Recreation” (Stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime or Hulu)
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Always. — Carla H. Russo
It follows the same formula each episode so you know what you’re getting every time. (I’m pretty sure Ted Allen has about 10 lines that he picks and chooses from for each episode.) They throw in different themes to make it exciting and it’s fun to see where all the contestants come from, what inspired them to cook, and all the different foods they incorporate in their dishes. You can let your mind drift in and out without needing to rewind and see what you missed. — Hayley Miller, senior reporter
Most people pretty much know every episode by heart so it’s another one you can drift in and out of. There’s a comforting nostalgia to it and a lot of the humor holds up. — Hayley Miller
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For me, this is comforting in the same way Seinfeld is, except it’s centered on women and I LOVE THEM ALL. — Hayley Miller
It always comes back to “The Golden Girls” for me. It doesn’t matter that I’ve seen every episode so many times I can essentially act them out. I feel a sense of instant relief the second I hear the theme song and see that pastel wicker sofa. Sure, the 1980s duds and specifics may be dated, but the comedy is just as fresh and forward-thinking ― even daring ― as it ever was. — Curtis Wong, senior culture reporter
In these truly wild and scary times, nothing brings me comfort more than watching reality TV. “Vanderpump Rules” is escapism at its finest, and features an array of personalities so there’s a hero and a villain for everyone. The best part is that who you feel allegiance to one season can completely change in the next. And don’t dismiss this show as useless programming, either: They’re doing a really good job this season of highlighting important mental health issues, like anxiety and depression. (Yes, I’m being totally serious.) I love this show, and it’s the one program that is sincerely bringing me some respite from the news right now. — Lindsay Holmes, senior wellness editor
In times of stress, I always turn to the dysfunctional crew at SUR to soothe my soul. Nothing distracts me from the world’s problems quite as well as investing in the petty problems of a group of friends who work or used to work at ex-“Real Housewife” Lisa Vanderpump’s West Hollywood restaurants. It’s worth starting from the beginning, but the show really hits its stride in season two. ― Mollie Reilly, deputy managing editor of breaking news
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I might be a 33-year-old woman, but I love watching “adult” cartoons. One of my favorites is “Bob’s Burgers” ― I think the writing is so clever and the show is hilarious without relying on crude or offensive jokes (not that I don’t appreciate those too). I can rewatch episodes without getting bored and often put it on when I don’t feel like delving into a super intellectual or complex storyline ... though I do relate with Tina on a deep level. — Casey Bond, reporter
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” (Stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime or Hulu)
The crew of the Enterprise-D are like old friends to me and their resourcefulness, camaraderie and optimistic humanity are ideals that we all want in our lives. — Ron Nurwisah, senior audience editor
An errant movie recommendation I’ll allow due to these wild times: “Lord of the Rings” (Rent on Amazon Prime)
This is a cheat, because I don’t really watch TV. Who has time for that?? But when I am ill or just a little down, I like to watch the complete extended version “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, back-to-back-to-back. An incredible experience if you have never done it — just be sure to block out a whole day.
I do this once a year. My wife, however, watches the Will Ferrell/Adam McKay film “Step Brothers” every time she gets sick, and so this has also become a kind of comfort viewing by proxy for me. It is tiresome but also genuinely delightful. — Zach Carter, senior seporter
It is the ultimate binge watch with 30 seasons’ worth of episodes. Not only does it provide some much-needed comedy relief right now but with its familiar characters and episodic storytelling, it’s as comforting and low-stakes as a slow simmering pot of tomato sauce on a Sunday afternoon. — Michael Caravella, cinematographer
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In these isolating times, things can get dark. So why not brighten up your life with a show about a wealthy family of four who suddenly find themselves very broke in a small, middle-of-nowhere town. Created by father-son duo Eugene and Dan Levy, “Schitt’s Creek” is a pure delight and will have you laughing in no time. So, c’mon, David(s)! Watch already! — Leigh Blickley, senior entertainment reporter
This show is an absolute gem and always puts me in a good mood. The characters are hilarious, the storylines are upbeat and the overall message focuses on love and family. It’s been a great distraction. — Caroline Bologna, life reporter
In this glass blowing competition, artists create amazing glass sculptures. There is something mesmerizing about the work itself ― the molten glass, the insanely hot ovens, the whiff of danger. And then there’s the terminology! Turns out glory hole means something very different in the world of glass blowing. I loved this show and it is tailor made for this moment. — Lydia Polgreen, editor-in-chief
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I come from a loud but loving Jewish family, so this show is like a warm bowl of matzo ball soup for me. Plus, it takes place in the ’80s and it’s nice to be nostalgic about a time before social media and this pandemic. The acting, jokes and characters are all great — especially the side characters who begin to pop up in later seasons. It’s also based on creator Adam F. Goldberg’s family, so there’s a lot of related fun home footage from his childhood that plays during the end credits. Speaking of plots, admittedly the ones on this show are pretty formulaic, but at this time, that predictability is soothing. — Elyse Wanshel, reporter
Apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic shows are just what the doctor ordered for me (not really, but I couldn’t resist the turn of phrase). Season 4 is particularly topical because a mysterious flu breaks out at the prison. Since my anxiety is all-consuming and there’s really no way to get around it, channeling that anxiety into something fictional but relevant helps. The idea of living during a pandemic was unfathomable to me a few months ago, so putting myself in these characters’ shoes and watching them survive in a similar (but much more dire) situation gives me hope for the real world and a — an albeit manufactured — sense of control. — Wendy Lu, copy editor/producer
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The show is always entertaining even after watching it multiple times. Will laugh out loud every time. — Amita Patel, supervising producer
A combined recommendation for “30 Rock,” “Broad City,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Superstore” (Varied streaming services)
These are comedies that I have already watched in their entirety but find solace in because they are about like, everything but a pandemic. I also like that I don’t really have to pay attention to the plot, because I can barely do that anyway. And there are a lot of episodes in the well to go back to! — Kate Sheppard, senior enterprise editor
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I’ve been binging “Pitch Meetings,” a YouTube show with six-minute episodes in which comedian Ryan George imagines what pitch meetings might have been like for more than 100 movies and shows.
It’s always a writer pitching a producer, both of whom are played by George, and the setting changes only slightly, with a different label on the door and different computers in the background based on the supposed decade. I love that it’s deadpan, with the characters remaining enthusiastic about the movie or show even as they are pointing out all its inconsistencies and shortcomings, and they use catchphrases that nearly always seem to work for the situation.
I’d suggest starting with “Cats.” There’s also a “Pitch Meetings Pitch Meeting” that essentially explains the concept, in honor of its 100th episode. — Jennifer Kho, director of strategic innovation
I’ve also been watching “Puppy Prep” on Hulu. It’s BuzzFeed’s reality show about puppies training to be service dogs in Arroyo Grande, California. Who will graduate? Who will flunk out? I found myself caring about the characters after only two episodes. It’s super cute but also moving, as these dogs prepare to help someone in need (and there are segments about graduates and who they’ve ended up with). — Jennifer Kho
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I’ve been unwinding with episodes from the new season of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” The long-running HBO show, starring “Seinfeld” creator Larry David, is so outrageous this season that it’s become a great escape. I’ve even started re-watching episodes from Season 1 dating back to 2000. It’s filled with dated technology like cordless telephones, but with the same characters and, of course, the painfully honest sense of humor we’ve come to know over the last 20 years. — Lauren Moraski, senior editor


huffpost--2020-03-21--How To Keep Your Germ-y Ass Nails Clean At Home

The guidelines and restrictions in place to limit social interaction around the world are imperative to halting the spread of the coronavirus , despite the cultural and financial implications for businesses like hair and nail salons , which in many places are closed for the foreseeable future .
As we all settle into a new normal , many of our routine activities , such as haircuts and manicures , are off the table .
But there ’ s a reason to be cognizant of our nails that has nothing to do with vanity ― nails , especially long ones , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including those associated with COVID-19 , the disease caused by the new coronavirus .
Sorry but ― it ’ s time to go short .
“ The best and safest way to keep nails is short , smooth and clean , ” Krant said .
“ Normally this only really applies in health care work , but these days , with COVID-19 around , we should all ideally keep our nails as free from germs as possible.
” She said the best way to do that is to keep them trimmed short @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showing and shaped like the natural end of your nail bed .
“ It ’ s also very important to smooth them gently with a file , so rough edges and corners are gone , ” she said .
“ This makes them the strongest and also easiest to clean , and to use with protective gloves.
” But if you ’ re going to stay long , buy a brush .
“ Germs can live underneath all nail lengths , but especially long nails , ” Tuttle told HuffPost .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re washing and drying your hands consistently and properly .
To make sure you ’ re getting underneath the nail , you can also use a nail brush with antibacterial soap .
But just make sure you ’ re keeping that brush clean , as well.
” Take your time soaking off gel .
“ First , file a bit to break the top coat seal .
Then , place cotton balls soaked in acetone on your nails and wrap your fingertip in tin foil .
Ideally , soak until the gels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take around 10-15 minutes .
We like to wrap a hot towel around as well to expedite the soaking process .
And the most important piece is having the patience to allow the gels to lift before removing the cotton .
No harsh removal or picking , please !
” If you have acrylics , consider settling in for a movie .
“ The removal process for acrylics is similar to gel , but much longer , ” Tuttle said .
“ You will first need to clip the edge of the acrylic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ break the seal .
Then follow the same steps for gel removal .
You ’ ll also need to let your nails soak for close to an hour until the acrylics are removing easily on their own.
” In the event that you do get sick and need to seek medical care , it might be best to take your polish off completely .
“ When you go to the hospital , the physicians there will need to place a pulse oximeter on your fingertip , ” Krant said .
“ This helps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are able to bring oxygen to the rest of your body .
With COVID-19 , this is a critical measure to see how well you are doing , or whether you need more help .
Though not all medical professionals agree , Krant said that nail polish alone prevents proper readings .
Sometimes they can find some acetone in the hospital to remove your polish , but you can ’ t rely on that .
Artificial nails totally prevent the use of a finger pulse oximeter .
They may have other simple methods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or they may not.
” It ’ s all about the 90/10 rule : 90 % of your shape comes from your nail clipper ; 10 % from filing .
First , use flat edge clippers to cut your nail into your desired shape .
Then , gently smooth out the edges .
If you have polish on , all the better .
Shaping with polish on helps you visualize the final shape without being distracted by the natural whites of the nails .
Dip each nail in a polish remover pot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can interfere with your polish adhering to your nail bed .
Pro tip : once you ’ ve prepped your nails , avoid touching your face and hair , which have natural oils .
Using your buffer , gently glide the buffer cube back and forth along the edge of the cuticle to erase dry skin and smooth things out .
Paint , dry ; paint , dry ; apply top coat : dry , dry , dry .
If you ’ re just starting out , anchoring your non-dominant hand ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a flat work surface gives you a steady canvas .
To apply your first coat of polish , start with a center swipe of polish , then swipe on either side .
You should be able to cover the average nail plate in 2-3 strokes .
Repeat on each nail .
Waiting 5-10 minutes in between coats makes a world of difference .
It will decrease the chance of bubbles and it dries faster !
Then seal your nails with the top coat formulated with your polish to maximize shine and protect your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully dried , apply cuticle serum to make your mani shine .
Cuticle serum is a must-have , can ’ t/won ’ t/don ’ t-leave-home-without-it product .
You could have zero polish on and give your cuticles a dose of cuticle serum and it would add instant luster .
Pro tip : If you ’ ve gotten any nail polish on your cuticles or fingertips , dip a clean-up brush in your nail polish remover , then use it to remove any unwanted color or to clean up polish lines .

The guidelines and restrictions in place to limit social interaction around the world are imperative to halting the spread of the coronavirus, despite the cultural and financial implications for businesses like hair and nail salons, which in many places are closed for the foreseeable future.
As we all settle into a new normal, many of our routine activities, such as haircuts and manicures, are off the table. But there’s a reason to be cognizant of our nails that has nothing to do with vanity ― nails, especially long ones, can play host to germs and bacteria, including those associated with COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.
With that in mind, and in an effort to keep our nails from becoming a hazard to ourselves, we called upon the experts to break down best practices for nail health and maintenance at home.
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Sorry but ― it’s time to go short.
New York-based dermatologist Jessica Krant offered a hard truth to the long nail lovers among us: Now might not be the time.
“The best and safest way to keep nails is short, smooth and clean,” Krant said. “Normally this only really applies in health care work, but these days, with COVID-19 around, we should all ideally keep our nails as free from germs as possible.” She said the best way to do that is to keep them trimmed short, with about 1-2 millimeters of white showing and shaped like the natural end of your nail bed. “It’s also very important to smooth them gently with a file, so rough edges and corners are gone,” she said. “This makes them the strongest and also easiest to clean, and to use with protective gloves.”
But if you’re going to stay long, buy a brush.
Sarah Gibson Tuttle, founder and CEO of Olive & June, a Los Angeles-based boutique nail salon that also offers a line of tools that make great manicures possible at home (their Poppy nail tool has a cult-like following), recommends changing out files every few months as well as washing metal tools thoroughly after each use.
“Germs can live underneath all nail lengths, but especially long nails,” Tuttle told HuffPost. “The most effective defense is making sure you’re washing and drying your hands consistently and properly. To make sure you’re getting underneath the nail, you can also use a nail brush with antibacterial soap. But just make sure you’re keeping that brush clean, as well.”
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Don’t get too clipper-happy.
There’s short, and then there’s dangerously short, Krant explained.
“Do NOT cut all of the white part off,” Krant said. “That risks injury to the seal against the nail bed and opens your finger up to infections getting inside.”
Take your time soaking off gel.
Thick gel polishes can create crevices in your nails that host germs and bacteria, so it’s time to get rid of them.
Losing access to our opposable thumbs while soaking gels off can be a challenge, but think of it this way ― there’s no reason to rush to do anything, especially something like a manicure, right now.
“Proper removal of gels at home requires time,” Tuttle said. “I recommend removal while you’re FaceTiming a friend or watching TV, so you’re not tempted to damage your nails by rushing. You’ll need a file, acetone, tin foil and a hot towel as a bonus.
“First, file a bit to break the top coat seal. Then, place cotton balls soaked in acetone on your nails and wrap your fingertip in tin foil. Ideally, soak until the gels are lifting off entirely, which will take around 10-15 minutes. We like to wrap a hot towel around as well to expedite the soaking process. And the most important piece is having the patience to allow the gels to lift before removing the cotton. No harsh removal or picking, please!”
Advertisement
If you have acrylics, consider settling in for a movie.
“The removal process for acrylics is similar to gel, but much longer,” Tuttle said. “You will first need to clip the edge of the acrylic nail down before you file to properly break the seal. Then follow the same steps for gel removal. You’ll also need to let your nails soak for close to an hour until the acrylics are removing easily on their own.”
In the event that you do get sick and need to seek medical care, it might be best to take your polish off completely.
Krant offered some insight about our nails that poses an entirely different problem.
“When you go to the hospital, the physicians there will need to place a pulse oximeter on your fingertip,” Krant said. “This helps them easily check how well your lungs are able to bring oxygen to the rest of your body. With COVID-19, this is a critical measure to see how well you are doing, or whether you need more help. Though not all medical professionals agree, Krant said that nail polish alone prevents proper readings. Sometimes they can find some acetone in the hospital to remove your polish, but you can’t rely on that. Artificial nails totally prevent the use of a finger pulse oximeter. They may have other simple methods to measure your oxygen levels at hand, or they may not.”
Now that you have the best practices, there’s no time like the present to try DIYing at home. Tuttle has been hosting manicure boot camps on the Olive & June Instagram page that cover a broad range of mani-curiosities, from general care to nail art.
Tuttle also shared her steps for a perfect at-home manicure:


huffpost--2020-03-20--Former 'Bachelor' Colton Underwood Tests Positive For COVID-19

Former “ Bachelor ” star Colton Underwood has tested positive for coronavirus , he announced Friday on social media .
In a video post first circulated on Instagram , Underwood said his symptoms started a few days ago , and he had just received his test results .
“ I want to let you guys know : I ’ m 28 , I consider myself pretty healthy , I work out regularly , I eat healthy , and I became symptomatic a few days ago , got my test results back today and they are positive , ” he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a healthy lifestyle , the coronavirus has knocked him out .
“ It ’ s been kicking my ass , just to put it pretty bluntly , ” he said .
“ The main thing is I can ’ t even walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath or go to the bathroom without having to sit down because I ’ m exhausted.
” The former “ Bachelor ” said he is self-quarantining at the home of the parents of his girlfriend , Cassie Randolph , whom he met @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means we ’ re all in this together , at this point .
So we ’ ll keep you posted , but we ’ re in good spirits , ” he said .
Underwood said he doesn ’ t want his video to stoke fear but to “ encourage you guys to stay home , do your part , take care of yourselves , take care of one another.
” Others who ’ ve also been diagnosed with the COVID-19 disease include actors Tom Hanks and Idris Elba and NBA star Kevin Durant @

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Former “Bachelor” star Colton Underwood has tested positive for coronavirus, he announced Friday on social media.
In a video post first circulated on Instagram, Underwood said his symptoms started a few days ago, and he had just received his test results.
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“I want to let you guys know: I’m 28, I consider myself pretty healthy, I work out regularly, I eat healthy, and I became symptomatic a few days ago, got my test results back today and they are positive,” he said.
Underwood said that, despite living a healthy lifestyle, the coronavirus has knocked him out.
“It’s been kicking my ass, just to put it pretty bluntly,” he said. “The main thing is I can’t even walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath or go to the bathroom without having to sit down because I’m exhausted.”
The former “Bachelor” said he is self-quarantining at the home of the parents of his girlfriend, Cassie Randolph, whom he met on the show.
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“Unfortunately that means we’re all in this together, at this point. So we’ll keep you posted, but we’re in good spirits,” he said.
Underwood said he doesn’t want his video to stoke fear but to “encourage you guys to stay home, do your part, take care of yourselves, take care of one another.”
Underwood is the latest celebrity to reveal a coronavirus diagnosis.


huffpost--2020-03-21--I'm A Canadian Quarantined In Italy. My Message: Self-Isolate Now.

With COVID-19 encroaching on global communities , I implore you to act calmly and proactively .
The public health recommendations of your government are not to be met with indifference .
Avoid crowded public transportation and postpone , or convince someone else to postpone , social functions .
Cancel upcoming plans for non-essential travel .
Self-isolate if you have recently travelled , or if you suspect that you are ill or have had contact with someone that is ill .
Persuade your workplace to transition to remote operations or introduce social distancing policies in your workplace .
Refrain from anxiously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and excellent conditions for transmission .
Assist elders and vulnerable members of your community by offering to run errands on their behalf , if you can do so safely .
If you are unconcerned about your own health , given the mild illness that often results from COVID-19 , consider the fact that some down the chain of transmission will almost certainly die , and others will require emergency hospitalization to keep them alive .
How would you feel knowing they suffered the excruciating sensation of suffocation as they cling to life @ @ @ @

With COVID-19 encroaching on global communities, I implore you to act calmly and proactively. The public health recommendations of your government are not to be met with indifference. Avoid crowded public transportation and postpone, or convince someone else to postpone, social functions. Cancel upcoming plans for non-essential travel. Self-isolate if you have recently travelled, or if you suspect that you are ill or have had contact with someone that is ill.
Persuade your workplace to transition to remote operations or introduce social distancing policies in your workplace. Refrain from anxiously bulk-buying food in grocery stores teeming with people and excellent conditions for transmission. Assist elders and vulnerable members of your community by offering to run errands on their behalf, if you can do so safely.
If you are unconcerned about your own health, given the mild illness that often results from COVID-19, consider the fact that some down the chain of transmission will almost certainly die, and others will require emergency hospitalization to keep them alive. How would you feel knowing they suffered the excruciating sensation of suffocation as they cling to life on a ventilator?


huffpost--2020-03-21--I Postponed My Wedding Because Of Coronavirus. Here's What I Learned.

My fiancé and I were set to get married on March 28 with roughly half of our guests flying into California from the East Coast .
Last week , we , like many other couples around the world , were stuck in limbo : planning as if the wedding was still on while following the coronavirus news and realizing the chances of it happening — at least in the way we imagined — were getting slimmer and slimmer .
Anxious thoughts ate at me : How many guests would even be able to come ?
Would people get sick traveling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came and infected others ?
Given the social distancing recommendations , would I even be able to hug my friends and family ?
Would people be too scared to dance or celebrate ?
If we were to postpone , how much money would we lose ?
The uncertainty overwhelmed me , and I was wracked with guilt ― not exactly the headspace you want to be in leading up to what should be one of the happiest days of your life .
I started by calling the venue first , then my wedding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fill them in on our decision .
Every one of them was so understanding and accommodating .
By midday , we had found a new date in November and by some stroke of luck , all of our vendors were able to make the new day work .
For the vendors we had already paid in full , we just transferred the funds over to the new date .
For those we hadn ’ t , they held on to the deposits and told us we could pay the balance closer to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay in full by the original date stated in the contract ) .
They , too , were navigating this uncharted territory , figuring out how to keep their businesses afloat but willing to help us however they could .
I ’ m grateful that we made the decision to postpone when we did .
On March 15 , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended postponing or canceling events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks ( our guest list was about 140 ) .
A few days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to gatherings of no more than 10 people .
On March 19 , California Gov .
Gavin Newsom ( D ) issued a statewide order mandating residents to stay at home ( except for essential work or errands ) until further notice to slow the spread of the virus .
Over the past week , friends , family and co-workers have reached out to my fiancé and me to see how we were holding up .
The truth is , as soon as we made the decision to postpone , the anxiety and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we didn ’ t have to worry about putting the health and safety of our loved ones in jeopardy .
And when the wedding does happen in the fall , we know all of this will make the celebration that much sweeter .
When you ’ re overwhelmed , you might be tempted to just throw in the towel on the wedding altogether .
But if you cancel , you risk losing all or most of the money you ’ ve already shelled out and may still be required to make future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a later date if you can .
When all of this is over , you and your guests will have even more of a reason to celebrate .
2 .
Check in with all of your vendors ASAP .
3 .
Be flexible when picking a new date .
4 .
Know that you may lose some money .
5 .
Let guests know , and update your wedding website as soon as you can .
It ’ s important to inform all invitees that you ’ re postponing right away so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hotel accommodations .
Consider calling your VIPs yourself ( if you ’ re capable of doing so ) and ask family or bridal party members to let other guests know either by phone or via an email blast .
One of our vendors kindly offered to create a digital postponement announcement for us to send out — something others in the industry have been doing as well .
6 .
Spread the word about your new wedding date .
7 .
Know it ’ s OK to be bummed by the turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is sadness , disappointment , confusion , anger or even grief , your emotions are real and valid , ” writer Cortlyn Adams said in a blog post .
“ No one could have anticipated a viral infection like coronavirus affecting your wedding and causing it to be postponed .
So , if no one has told you yet , it ’ s OK to feel the way that you ’ re feeling about postponing your wedding.
” 8 .
And when the day finally comes , all of this stress will be @ @ @ @

My fiancé and I were set to get married on March 28 with roughly half of our guests flying into California from the East Coast. Last week, we, like many other couples around the world, were stuck in limbo: planning as if the wedding was still on while following the coronavirus news and realizing the chances of it happening — at least in the way we imagined — were getting slimmer and slimmer.
Anxious thoughts ate at me: How many guests would even be able to come? Would people get sick traveling to the wedding? What if they came and infected others? Given the social distancing recommendations, would I even be able to hug my friends and family? Would people be too scared to dance or celebrate? If we were to postpone, how much money would we lose? The uncertainty overwhelmed me, and I was wracked with guilt ― not exactly the headspace you want to be in leading up to what should be one of the happiest days of your life.
Then people began dropping out: first grandparents, then family friends with underlying conditions, then a pregnant bridesmaid and another bridesmaid who works at a hospital. I couldn’t picture getting married with so many loved ones absent. The morning of March 13, we decided to postpone the wedding.
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Shane and Lauren Photography The writer and her fiancé at their engagement photo shoot.
I started by calling the venue first, then my wedding coordinator and then the other vendors to fill them in on our decision. Every one of them was so understanding and accommodating. By midday, we had found a new date in November and by some stroke of luck, all of our vendors were able to make the new day work.
For the vendors we had already paid in full, we just transferred the funds over to the new date. For those we hadn’t, they held on to the deposits and told us we could pay the balance closer to our new date (one asked that we pay in full by the original date stated in the contract). They, too, were navigating this uncharted territory, figuring out how to keep their businesses afloat but willing to help us however they could.
I’m grateful that we made the decision to postpone when we did. On March 15, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended postponing or canceling events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks (our guest list was about 140). A few days later, the White House limited it to gatherings of no more than 10 people. On March 19, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) issued a statewide order mandating residents to stay at home (except for essential work or errands) until further notice to slow the spread of the virus.
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Over the past week, friends, family and co-workers have reached out to my fiancé and me to see how we were holding up. The truth is, as soon as we made the decision to postpone, the anxiety and fear melted away. We were relieved that we didn’t have to worry about putting the health and safety of our loved ones in jeopardy. And when the wedding does happen in the fall, we know all of this will make the celebration that much sweeter.
Not every couple will be as lucky as we were — it’s a tough decision and a challenging situation to navigate both emotionally and logistically. That’s why we asked event planners to share their advice for brides and grooms considering postponing their weddings in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Postpone, don’t cancel.
When you’re overwhelmed, you might be tempted to just throw in the towel on the wedding altogether. But if you cancel, you risk losing all or most of the money you’ve already shelled out and may still be required to make future payments. Instead, try to postpone to a later date if you can. When all of this is over, you and your guests will have even more of a reason to celebrate.
2. Check in with all of your vendors ASAP.
Lori Stephenson, founder of Lola Event Productions in Chicago, had 18 weddings between mid-March and June 1. She and her team handled one couple’s March 13 nuptials as planned but rescheduled their other March, April and May events, Stephenson told HuffPost
Whether you’ve already made the call to postpone or are thinking about doing so, it’s wise to look at all of your vendor contracts and then check in with each one so you’re prepared either way.
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Stephenson came up with a list of questions to ask vendors, which we’ve paraphrased below (you can read her other tips in this blog post on her website):
What is your cancellation policy, including loss of deposit and payment of the balance? Will you make any exceptions given the government recommendations limiting gatherings and promoting self-distancing practices?
Are you willing to work an event with more than the government-recommended number of people in attendance, knowing it could potentially expose guests and vendors to the virus?
What is the backup plan in case you or someone on your team is quarantined?
If we decide to postpone to a later date, can we apply the deposit in full to a new mutually agreed-upon date? And would the original payment schedule laid out in the contract still apply?
What dates do you have open in the next year so I can compare your availability with the venue and other vendors?
3. Be flexible when picking a new date.
Because wedding vendors often book up a year or more in advance, your new date options may be limited. Perhaps you’ll have to forgo a Saturday wedding for a Friday, Sunday or weekday, or tie the knot during the winter offseason.
“This will help increase the possibility of vendors and venues being available and help with some other costs you didn’t have locked in,” said Los Angeles planner Paige Blatt of Geller Events,
And don’t wait too long to pick a new date. Many couples are in the same boat right now, looking to reschedule their events.
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“As soon as we made the decision to postpone, the anxiety and fear melted away.”
Know that you may not be able to find a date that works for your whole existing team of vendors. So you’ll need to prioritize which wedding elements are most important to you as a couple and then choose a date that works with those vendors’ schedules.
One thing to note: Your vendors may prefer you choose another date on the 2020 calendar rather than pushing it all the way to 2021, as that could be financially devastating for them.
“If I was to just shift all of my weddings from this year to next year and everybody was doing the same... next year, the calendar would be full of this year’s business,” wedding planner Rachel Birthistle told Vogue. “That’s a year’s worth of revenues just gone.”
One silver lining? “If you didn’t get your first-choice band because of the original date, they might be available now for the new date!” Blatt said.
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4. Know that you may lose some money.
How much you lose really depends on your individual vendor contracts and how accommodating they’ll be in light of these circumstances.
“Although no contract offers cancellation for a pandemic, we are in this together, and most of our vendors are very willing to work with you,” Blatt said. “This is a stressful time for everyone, so make sure to approach your team with kindness and understanding rather than aggression. It will greatly increase your odds of flexibility.”
The amount of flexibility will also vary depending on how soon your wedding is and if the vendor has already invested a good deal of time and/or money preparing for the event. If, for example, your caterer already ordered the food (or any perishable goods) for your wedding, it’s going to be tougher to recoup those costs.
“If services haven’t been completed because the wedding doesn’t happen — flowers aren’t bought, DJ doesn’t perform — then some money can be refunded,” Blatt said. “But nonrefundable deposits don’t change, unfortunately.”
Know that if one of your vendors is not available on your new wedding date, you may still be held to the cancellation terms laid out in your original contract.
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“That might mean your balance is due in full regardless of whether you use the vendor or not,” Stephenson wrote.
If that happens, ask if there’s anything else the vendor can do. Perhaps you could use their services for a birthday party or another large family gathering down the line. Or see if they can recommend and connect you with some other quality wedding vendors in the same space.
“Given that you cannot expect your original deposit back, consider it a finder’s fee to do this legwork for you,” planner Annie Lee of Daughter of Design told Harper’s Bazaar. “The goal is that no vendor loses work, and you don’t lose a supplier.”
5. Let guests know, and update your wedding website as soon as you can.
It’s important to inform all invitees that you’re postponing right away so they can cancel or rebook their flights and hotel accommodations. Consider calling your VIPs yourself (if you’re capable of doing so) and ask family or bridal party members to let other guests know either by phone or via an email blast. One of our vendors kindly offered to create a digital postponement announcement for us to send out — something others in the industry have been doing as well.
Then update your wedding website with any pertinent information and your new wedding date once you have it. You can use text like:
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“For the health and safety of our family and friends, we have decided to postpone our wedding in accordance with the government/CDC guidelines. We hope you’ll be able to celebrate with us on our new date: Sunday, November 15, 2020.”
6. Spread the word about your new wedding date.
In addition to sharing the information on your wedding website, you may want to send another save-the-date — and later, an invitation — to reflect the new details. You could do this via Paperless Post or send another paper invitation in the mail.
7. Know it’s OK to be bummed by the turn of events.
With all that’s going on right now, you might feel silly being upset about postponing your big day. But you shouldn’t: A wedding is a major life event and something you’ve likely been planning and looking forward to for a while now.
“Whether that emotion is sadness, disappointment, confusion, anger or even grief, your emotions are real and valid,” writer Cortlyn Adams said in a blog post. “No one could have anticipated a viral infection like coronavirus affecting your wedding and causing it to be postponed. So, if no one has told you yet, it’s OK to feel the way that you’re feeling about postponing your wedding.”
8. And when the day finally comes, all of this stress will be far behind you.
You may be a little blue now, but by the time your new date rolls around, these unpleasant emotions will be a distant memory.
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huffpost--2020-03-21--Anyone In Eating Disorder Recovery Should Read This Coronavirus Advice

The realities of this global health crisis will affect people in different ways , including those in eating disorder recovery @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s normal for eating disorder thoughts to creep back in during stressful @ @ @ @ @ disorder behaviors don ’ t actually solve any problems ― and , in fact , @ @ @ @ @ ’ t let old eating disorder thoughts prevent you from buying what you need at @ @ @ @ @ that your body is resilient and can live without exercise .
Establish a routine to @ @ @ @ @ at bay .
Stay digitally connected to friends , loved ones and online support systems @ @ @ @ @ is a very worthwhile process and that you ’ re so much more than an @ @ @

golibo via Getty Images
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought seismic changes to all of our lives in the past weeks. We’re being urged to self-isolate in our homes, stay away from other people, and stock up on necessary supplies like food and hygiene products to limit trips to the store. These new guidelines, and the uncertainty around how long they will last, are anxiety-inducing for everyone.
If you’re currently in eating disorder recovery, you’ve likely felt triggered by what’s going on. To encourage you and help you feel less alone, we asked a few experts for some guidance on how and why to stay on track with recovery during this universally tough time.
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(Note: We’ll talk more about this below, but if you have the option, it’s important to stay virtually connected with your treatment team throughout this pandemic. You can also reach the National Eating Disorders Association hotline at 1-800-931-2237.)
The realities of this global health crisis will affect people in different ways, including those in eating disorder recovery.
Needless to say, different people will be affected in different ways by self-isolating, social distancing, and other implications of the pandemic. Likewise, people in recovery will face their own individual challenges.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) recognizes multiple eating disorders, but generally, they fall into three categories: restrictive eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorders, and eating disorders that show characteristics of both.
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“The pandemic is going to affect different recovery journeys in different ways,” said Colie Taico, a North Carolina-based psychotherapist who specializes in eating disorders and trauma. “Someone recovering from a restrictive eating disorder might feel their eating disorder telling them to use limited grocery store trips as a reason to not eat adequate food, whereas this same scarcity mentality might trigger the urge to binge in someone with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder.”
Be compassionate with yourself. It’s normal for eating disorder thoughts to creep back in during stressful times.
Feeling especially tempted to fall into old behaviors is a normal response and doesn’t mean you’re failing. The development of an eating disorder is multifaceted and complex. In addition to many other factors like genetics and temperament, some people that develop eating disorders have experienced trauma in their lifetime, whether that’s the trauma of living in diet culture, experiencing a relationship that was emotionally abusive or experiencing an assault, just to name a few examples.
Disordered food behaviors like restricting, purging and binging can develop as a response to these traumas. “Engaging in those behaviors can do a number of things inside us that help in the short term — numb a difficult emotion, for example,” she said.
If you’re being tempted by eating disorder thoughts or behaviors right now, recognize that they could be a reaction to what’s going on in the world.
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Remember that eating disorder behaviors don’t actually solve any problems ― and, in fact, make things worse.
As anyone in recovery knows, the same behaviors that can numb our emotions in the short term can cause serious long-term physical and mental health problems. Those practices also don’t solve anything.
“Returning to eating disorder behavior is not, in fact, going to change the circumstances in which we live,” said Anna Sweeney, a Boston-based certified eating disorders registered dietitian. “Instead, it will reinforce false thought patterns that suggest an eating disorder is the answer, when in fact right now there just isn’t an answer, except for washing our hands and staying away from other people to the best of our ability.”
Of course, we’re all desperately searching for an answer, but now is the time to remind yourself what recovery has already taught you — that eating disorder behaviors are never the solution.
“Don’t let this pandemic stand in your way. You can do this. One step at a time.” - Colie Taico, a North Carolina-based psychotherapist
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Don’t let old eating disorder thoughts prevent you from buying what you need at the grocery store.
“I’ve had clients contact me from the grocery store saying, ‘I can’t get my safe food, I can’t get the replacement for my safe food.’ There’s a scarcity effect happening right now ― it’s happening for all of us,” Sweeney said. But she said it’s especially exacerbating for people recovering from eating disorders.
First of all, you might need to stock up on foods you don’t feel comfortable with.
“Your eating disorder may label shelf-stable foods as ‘bad’ or ‘unhealthy,’” said Lauren Haughey, a Colorado-based certified eating disorders registered dietitian. Many people in recovery may also feel anxiety around having so much food in the house at one time. “Know that human bodies are extraordinarily resilient, and your body can handle and get adequate nutrition and variety from shelf-stable food.”
Haughey recommended trying to be neutral about foods ― really push back against “good” and “bad” food thoughts ― and giving yourself permission to eat what you want when you want.
“To be clear, this time and these new guidelines will be scary and potentially really dangerous for some folks with eating disorders,” Sweeney added. “But for others, I think this is going to move them through phases and stages of recovery that perhaps they didn’t think they were ready for.”
The necessity of buying a food that you aren’t comfortable with might speed the process of becoming comfortable with it. Or the fear of having too much food in the house at once might start to dim as it becomes a more normal reality.
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If you truly aren’t comfortable, there are alternatives for people who can afford them. Haughey suggested using grocery delivery services at the same frequency you’re used to shopping, or ordering take-out or delivery from restaurants you know and feel comfortable with.
Know that your body is resilient and can live without exercise.
Limiting or avoiding exercise is an important recovery step for most people with eating disorders, but self-quarantine adds a whole new layer of anxiety around lack of movement.
“It could be especially hard to remember that you still need enough food even when you are doing less,” said Katie Gilder, a Minnesota-based dietitian. “You don’t need to compensate for the fact that their gym is closed [by restricting food].”
If you’re freaking out about not getting as much movement, take a deep breath.
“The human body can be OK not going to the gym,” Sweeney said. The same goes for working out at home. With so many people posting their exercise routines on their Instagram feeds, it can feel like you’re not doing enough. Remind yourself that you don’t always need to do an intense workout.
“The majority of calories that we burn go towards just existing, because keeping our bodies at 98.5 degrees takes a lot of energy,” Sweeney said. “It’s going to take a lot of skill for [people in recovery] to be able to tolerate this new normal, but our bodies are designed to persist.”
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Establish a routine to help keep eating disorder thoughts at bay.
Whatever routine you establish for yourself in the near future will look different than it did a few weeks ago. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one. Taico recommends eating regular meals and snacks on a schedule similar to the one you’re used to and sticking to your meal plan if a dietitian has prescribed one. Following a regular sleep schedule can also keep you healthy and feeling more normal.
Taico also recommends journaling each day to get your anxieties and feelings out on paper without judgment. No matter where you are in your recovery journey, it can be helpful to think through why certain eating disorder thoughts might be surfacing right now.
Stay digitally connected to friends, loved ones and online support systems.
Another thing to build into your routine: regular contact with friends and family. Eating with others is a powerful recovery tool, and if that’s not possible right now, consider making virtual lunch and dinner dates, and FaceTiming with one other person or a group as you all eat at home.
Don’t hesitate to talk to people you trust about what you’re going through. “Communicate with safe, recovery-positive people around you about what your eating disorder part is likely to dream up in terms of relapse fantasies, and ask for accountability,” Taico said. You don’t need to share these thoughts with everyone, but confiding in one or a few individuals ― and asking them to check in on you regularly ― is a great idea.
Online forums are another good option. This past Sunday, Sweeney announced that she would do a free hourlong Instagram Live session every Monday to support those in recovery. Since then four other practitioners have volunteered to do the same thing on other weekdays. You can find the schedule here and tune in every weekday at the designated times.
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“None of us have concrete answers right now, but all of us need connection. It really is important that we engage as much as possible in personal online connection,” Sweeney said.
In addition to Instagram Live sessions, there are Facebook groups and other online forums that support people in eating disorder recovery, many of which are listed here.
Eva-Katalin via Getty Images
Make virtual therapy appointments.
This should go without saying, but none of the above is a substitute for individual therapy.
“It’s normal to feel increased anxiety right now, and your recovery is still very important. Even with social distancing, you can reach out for support from your treatment team, as many providers are offering telehealth now,” Haughey said.
“Anyone working to recover from an eating disorder would be wise to continue on with their therapist and dietitian exactly the same, just online,” Taico added. She noted that telehealth is very similar to in-person therapy, with the downside that you’re not in the same room and experiencing the feeling of being near someone who cares about you.
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But Taico said anyone who’s already formed a connection with their provider will likely feel that connection virtually as well. “If you are meeting a therapist for the first time virtually, you may feel a bit awkward at first, but that’s about it,” she said.
Remind yourself that recovery is a very worthwhile process and that you’re so much more than an eating disorder.
There’s a lot of uncertainty about how long these self-isolation and social distancing recommendations will last, but they won’t be forever.
“Every step you take backwards in your healing journey is one more that your future self will need to walk again,” Taico said.
You’ve likely already learned in recovery that your eating disorder was holding you back from living a full and happy life, and that healing can happen. “Don’t let this pandemic stand in your way,” Taico said. “You can do this. One step at a time.”
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huffpost--2020-03-21--Seattle's Homeless Have Few Options To Self-Isolate To Avoid Coronavirus

Ted S. Warren/ASSOCIATED PRESS People gather on the sidewalk in front of the Union Gospel Mission in downtown Seattle on Friday .
The mission serves a large portion of Seattle 's homeless population , and officials fear that controlling the spread of the new coronavirus in groups that lack access to basic hygiene and other supplies will be difficult .
This puts them at serious risk for COVID-19 , the illness caused by the novel coronavirus .
It ’ s also a dangerous double standard , advocates for homeless people say .
At a time when officials are urging people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contracting the virus or spreading it , vulnerable people who are homeless are sharing sleeping quarters and restrooms .
“ The city should be giving the kind of care to the homeless population that anyone would give their parents who are in their 80s , ” said Rex Hohlbein , the founder of Facing Homelessness , a nonprofit that provides direct assistance to homeless Seattle residents .
“ Every person living outside is in the vulnerable category.
” The state has taken some steps to protect its homeless population .
The city of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shelter population into new , larger spaces so that they can sleep 6 feet apart .
Residents who start showing symptoms are supposed to be moved into isolation units reserved for that purpose .
But until then , they aren ’ t able to self-isolate , even if they ’ re vulnerable to the virus .
People experiencing homelessness who are older than 50 tend to have more underlying health problems than the general population , according to the National Coalition for the Homeless , and are at higher risk for both chronic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be to offer more motel vouchers to people at high risk of infection .
So far , King County has funded about 60 motel vouchers for older and high-risk shelter residents , according to Sherry Hamilton , spokesperson for the King County Department of Human and Community Services .
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced this week that the city would deploy four hygiene trailers , along with handwashing stations and portable toilets , across the city .
But with most other public restrooms shut down and just six 24-hour restrooms available citywide , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few portable toilets to meet the need .
On March 17 , Durkan ’ s office suspended most removals of homeless encampments due to the coronavirus outbreak , though the city can still conduct site sweeps in “ extreme circumstances , ” such as a “ fire or safety hazard ” under a bridge or a tent in a play area .
The city says that police and the Navigation Team , which functions as a rapid-removal squad , removed 15 encampments in March before the suspension took effect .
Many people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin with .
Many shelters are split by gender , and they don ’ t want to leave partners behind .
The shelters that take couples are in high demand .
Many also worry about their belongings being stolen , or they can suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or have other mental health conditions that make living in a group setting untenable .
In Seattle , as in many West Coast cities , these people tend to live in their vehicles or in tents , a phenomenon that ’ s instantly visible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major freeways or walks along the city ’ s waterfront .
Steve , who also asked not to use his last name , and his girlfriend were staying in a broken-down trailer in far north Seattle last week when the city ’ s Navigation Team showed up to tow their makeshift home away , leaving their possessions in piles on the side of the road .
That night , Steve and his girlfriend slept under the tarp that had been covering their trailer .
He said the Navigation Team didn ’ t offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but even if they had , he wouldn ’ t have been interested .
“ I ’ m not inclined at all to stay in shelters — it ’ s nothing but drug dealing and people who ’ ll steal your stuff , ” he said .
Besides , “ I ’ m with my girlfriend and I ’ m not going to split up from her.
” Another factor on Steve ’ s mind : avoiding contact with infected people .
Ironically , people who live in vehicles and in parks may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in crowded shelters , even those that have been “ de-intensified ” under the new anti-crowding policies .

People gather on the sidewalk in front of the Union Gospel Mission in downtown Seattle on Friday. The mission serves a large portion of Seattle's homeless population, and officials fear that controlling the spread of the new coronavirus in groups that lack access to basic hygiene and other supplies will be difficult. Ted S. Warren/ASSOCIATED PRESS
SEATTLE ― Thousands of elderly and immunocompromised people are experiencing homelessness in Washington state, an epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, and the state isn’t giving them the option to self-isolate.
This puts them at serious risk for COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. It’s also a dangerous double standard, advocates for homeless people say. At a time when officials are urging people to self-isolate to lower the likelihood of contracting the virus or spreading it, vulnerable people who are homeless are sharing sleeping quarters and restrooms.
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“The city should be giving the kind of care to the homeless population that anyone would give their parents who are in their 80s,” said Rex Hohlbein, the founder of Facing Homelessness, a nonprofit that provides direct assistance to homeless Seattle residents. “Every person living outside is in the vulnerable category.”
Finding Spaces For Shelter
The state has taken some steps to protect its homeless population. The city of Seattle and King County are moving the shelter population into new, larger spaces so that they can sleep 6 feet apart. Residents who start showing symptoms are supposed to be moved into isolation units reserved for that purpose. But until then, they aren’t able to self-isolate, even if they’re vulnerable to the virus.
People experiencing homelessness who are older than 50 tend to have more underlying health problems than the general population, according to the National Coalition for the Homeless, and are at higher risk for both chronic and contagious diseases.
One solution would be to offer more motel vouchers to people at high risk of infection. So far, King County has funded about 60 motel vouchers for older and high-risk shelter residents, according to Sherry Hamilton, spokesperson for the King County Department of Human and Community Services.
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But that’s not nearly enough, advocates say. The latest one-night count of King County’s homeless population identified more than 5,200 people in shelters.
The city and county need to think long-term, said Tiffani McCoy, the lead organizer for the Seattle homeless advocacy group Real Change and a contributor to its newspaper.
“It would be better to get folks inside, where they could self-isolate, have access to hygiene services and follow public health guidelines in a way that maintains their dignity,” McCoy said.
Why People Stay Outside
Other people experiencing homelessness are sleeping outside, where they face other challenges as many public facilities have shut down, leaving them with no access to bathrooms or indoor spaces.
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan announced this week that the city would deploy four hygiene trailers, along with handwashing stations and portable toilets, across the city. But with most other public restrooms shut down and just six 24-hour restrooms available citywide, it will take a lot more than a few portable toilets to meet the need.
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Nicki, who didn’t give her last name, stays in a tent near a Seattle public library and often uses its facilities. Like other libraries, it has been closed since March 13.
“This is one of my favorite libraries,” she said. “Most of the staff here understand that it’s hard to be out here.”
A man wearing a mask sleeps near another person on a sidewalk near the Union Gospel Mission on Friday. Ted S. Warren/ASSOCIATED PRESS
There’s a small silver lining: Now that there are fewer people downtown in general, the unhoused people who stay in tents near the library have been allowed to stay, undisturbed, in areas they’re usually forced to leave every morning.
On March 17, Durkan’s office suspended most removals of homeless encampments due to the coronavirus outbreak, though the city can still conduct site sweeps in “extreme circumstances,” such as a “fire or safety hazard” under a bridge or a tent in a play area. The city says that police and the Navigation Team, which functions as a rapid-removal squad, removed 15 encampments in March before the suspension took effect.
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Many people living on the street avoid shelters to begin with. Many shelters are split by gender, and they don’t want to leave partners behind. The shelters that take couples are in high demand. Many also worry about their belongings being stolen, or they can suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or have other mental health conditions that make living in a group setting untenable. In Seattle, as in many West Coast cities, these people tend to live in their vehicles or in tents, a phenomenon that’s instantly visible to anyone who drives on Seattle’s major freeways or walks along the city’s waterfront.
Steve, who also asked not to use his last name, and his girlfriend were staying in a broken-down trailer in far north Seattle last week when the city’s Navigation Team showed up to tow their makeshift home away, leaving their possessions in piles on the side of the road. That night, Steve and his girlfriend slept under the tarp that had been covering their trailer. He said the Navigation Team didn’t offer him shelter or any other services, but even if they had, he wouldn’t have been interested.
“I’m not inclined at all to stay in shelters — it’s nothing but drug dealing and people who’ll steal your stuff,” he said. Besides, “I’m with my girlfriend and I’m not going to split up from her.”
Another factor on Steve’s mind: avoiding contact with infected people. Ironically, people who live in vehicles and in parks may be safer from exposure than people sleeping in crowded shelters, even those that have been “de-intensified” under the new anti-crowding policies.
“Because of our living situation, we’re probably a little bit less susceptible than a lot of the general public,” Steve said.
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Advocates and city officials who oppose encampment removals say they hope the county and city won’t lose interest in solving the homelessness crisis once the current public health emergency abates.
“It is interesting to me that suddenly we have all kinds of creative ideas for how we can create more shelter space for people,” said City Council member Tammy Morales, who won office last year on a campaign to “stop the sweeps.”
McCoy, the Real Change advocate, agreed.
“I’m encouraged that the county seems to be purchasing all these new buildings so rapidly,” she said, “but I wish it had happened during the homelessness emergency, because then we wouldn’t be scrambling to house the homeless population now.”


huffpost--2020-03-27--Anthony Fauci Hits Younger People With A Stark Coronavirus Reality Check

Dr. Anthony Fauci has a message for younger Americans who think the coronavirus won ’ t hurt them ― and who are going out anyway amid stay-at-home orders in cities and states around the nation .
“ Even though you are young , you are not absolutely invulnerable , ” he told “ Daily Show ” host Trevor Noah on Thursday .
“ For sure.
” While many younger people who get very sick from the virus have certain preexisting conditions , he said some don ’ t , including “ young people ― 30s , 40s ― who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , requiring intensive care.
” Fauci , who is the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , added that elderly people with underlying health conditions remain most at risk .
But he said there ’ s another reason to stay inside : Younger people can have milder symptoms , or even show no symptoms at all , but still carry the virus and pass it along to someone else .
“ You can infect another person , who would then infect a vulnerable person , who will then die @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a responsibility not only to protect yourself , but you almost have a societal moral responsibility to protect other people .
”

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Dr. Anthony Fauci has a message for younger Americans who think the coronavirus won’t hurt them ― and who are going out anyway amid stay-at-home orders in cities and states around the nation.
“Even though you are young, you are not absolutely invulnerable,” he told “Daily Show” host Trevor Noah on Thursday. “For sure.”
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While many younger people who get very sick from the virus have certain preexisting conditions, he said some don’t, including “young people ― 30s, 40s ― who are getting sick, getting into the hospital, requiring intensive care.”
Fauci, who is the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, added that elderly people with underlying health conditions remain most at risk.
But he said there’s another reason to stay inside: Younger people can have milder symptoms, or even show no symptoms at all, but still carry the virus and pass it along to someone else.
“You can infect another person, who would then infect a vulnerable person, who will then die,” he said. “You have a responsibility not only to protect yourself, but you almost have a societal moral responsibility to protect other people.”


huffpost--2020-03-27--Instacart Gig Workers Threaten To Strike, Demand Hazard Pay And Sick Leave

Gig workers for online grocery delivery service Instacart are planning a nationwide strike , saying the company has failed to provide them with safety essentials and paid sick leave as they work on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic .
Workers told Motherboard that , starting Monday , they will refuse to accept orders until Instacart meets their demands .
They said they ’ re seeking $ 5 in additional hazard pay for each order , free safety provisions including hand sanitizer , disinfectant wipes and soap , and paid sick leave for workers with preexisting conditions who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctors .
Our aim is to ensure public safety , and the safety of our Shoppers and customers .
Instacart has refused to act , so we must .
I am [ hopeful ] that other gig workers will mobilize around demands to protect workers as well , and ultimately that health and safety are prioritized above profit .
Workers from the Gig Workers Collective advocacy group told HuffPost in a statement that “ Instacart has had several weeks to improve the safety conditions for workers.
” “ They ’ ve ignored our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is our only option .
Our lives are on the line at this point , and we can not continue to work until our demands are met , ” the statement said .
After initial publication of this story , Instacart told HuffPost in a statement that “ we absolutely respect the rights of shoppers to provide us feedback and voice their concerns.
” “ Our goal is to offer a safe and flexible earnings opportunity to shoppers , while also proactively taking the appropriate precautionary measures to operate safely , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently offers up to 14 days of pay for any hourly employee or full-service shopper who is diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed in individual mandatory isolation or quarantine , also said it is “ extending this assistance for another 30 days — through May 8 , 2020 — to ensure our community continues to be supported during this rapidly evolving situation.
” Instacart also said it will be “ introducing a bonus payment for in-store shoppers , shift leads , and site managers ” that will be “ based on the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 and will range from $ 25 to $ 200 , to further support this community during this time.
” Still , the company did not acknowledge the other demands of the workers who are planning to strike .
Instacart , which says it is the largest grocery delivery network in North America , announced earlier this week that it would be hiring 300,000 additional full-service shoppers across the continent in the next three months given surging demand in the U.S. and Canada .
The demand for online grocery delivery services has skyrocketed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
Meeting that demand and keeping employees safe ( and paid ) has proven to be a struggle for many companies during this crisis .
While Amazon Fresh says it ’ s hiring 100,000 more workers across the U.S. to get customers groceries quickly , employees describe being terrified of going to work .
“ We ’ re all freaked out , ” Monica Moody , who works at an Amazon warehouse in North Carolina , said on a call reported by HuffPost on Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to work or risk losing pay.
” Instacart was previously embroiled in a controversy over its treatment of gig workers in fall 2019 .
After shoppers for the site went on strike in an effort to demand that the company give them a default tip amount of 10 % per order , the company reportedly eliminated an existing perk , a $ 3 bonus for each five-star rating they received from customers , mere days after the strike , according to Eater .

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Gig workers for online grocery delivery service Instacart are planning a nationwide strike, saying the company has failed to provide them with safety essentials and paid sick leave as they work on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.
Workers told Motherboard that, starting Monday, they will refuse to accept orders until Instacart meets their demands. They said they’re seeking $5 in additional hazard pay for each order, free safety provisions including hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and soap, and paid sick leave for workers with preexisting conditions who have been advised not to work by their doctors.
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Vanessa Bain, a California-based gig worker for Instacart and a lead organizer of the strike, told HuffPost, “Sadly Instacart’s lack of engagement is the norm.” She continued:
Our aim is to ensure public safety, and the safety of our Shoppers and customers. Instacart has refused to act, so we must. I am [hopeful] that other gig workers will mobilize around demands to protect workers as well, and ultimately that health and safety are prioritized above profit.
Workers from the Gig Workers Collective advocacy group told HuffPost in a statement that “Instacart has had several weeks to improve the safety conditions for workers.”
“They’ve ignored our requests, so an emergency walk off is our only option. Our lives are on the line at this point, and we cannot continue to work until our demands are met,” the statement said.
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After initial publication of this story, Instacart told HuffPost in a statement that “we absolutely respect the rights of shoppers to provide us feedback and voice their concerns.”
“Our goal is to offer a safe and flexible earnings opportunity to shoppers, while also proactively taking the appropriate precautionary measures to operate safely,” the company said.
The company, which currently offers up to 14 days of pay for any hourly employee or full-service shopper who is diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed in individual mandatory isolation or quarantine, also said it is “extending this assistance for another 30 days — through May 8, 2020 — to ensure our community continues to be supported during this rapidly evolving situation.”
Instacart also said it will be “introducing a bonus payment for in-store shoppers, shift leads, and site managers” that will be “based on the number of hours worked from March 15 through April 15 and will range from $25 to $200, to further support this community during this time.”
Still, the company did not acknowledge the other demands of the workers who are planning to strike.
SOPA Images via Getty Images
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Instacart, which says it is the largest grocery delivery network in North America, announced earlier this week that it would be hiring 300,000 additional full-service shoppers across the continent in the next three months given surging demand in the U.S. and Canada.
A spokesperson previously told HuffPost that in the last few weeks, Instacart has “seen the highest customer demand in company history” and is currently focusing on the busiest states, including California, New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New Jersey, Georgia and Ohio.
The demand for online grocery delivery services has skyrocketed as people stay indoors in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Meeting that demand and keeping employees safe (and paid) has proven to be a struggle for many companies during this crisis. While Amazon Fresh says it’s hiring 100,000 more workers across the U.S. to get customers groceries quickly, employees describe being terrified of going to work.
“We’re all freaked out,” Monica Moody, who works at an Amazon warehouse in North Carolina, said on a call reported by HuffPost on Thursday. “Amazon is making us choose between coming to work or risk losing pay.”
Instacart was previously embroiled in a controversy over its treatment of gig workers in fall 2019. After shoppers for the site went on strike in an effort to demand that the company give them a default tip amount of 10% per order, the company reportedly eliminated an existing perk, a $3 bonus for each five-star rating they received from customers, mere days after the strike, according to Eater.


huffpost--2020-03-27--Bob Dylan Responds To Coronavirus With Song About JFK Assassination

Like many musicians , Bob Dylan responded to the coronavirus outbreak by releasing new music .
However , the legendary songwriter is probably the only artist whose new song is focused on the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy .
On Thursday night , Dylan released his first original tune in eight years ― “ Murder Most Foul , ” a 17-minute epic that focuses on the killing of Kennedy .
According to Dylan ’ s tweet , the song was recorded a while back , but Variety noted that could mean “ a matter of months or many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followers with gratitude for all your support and loyalty across the years .
This is an unreleased song we recorded a while back that you might find interesting .
Stay safe , stay observant and may God be with you .
Bob Dylanhttps : //t.co/uJnE4X64Bb — bobdylan.com ( @ bobdylan ) March 27 , 2020 The song doesn ’ t sugarcoat things , mentioning that “ they blew off his head while he was still in the car ” in the first stanza .
Dylan also puts himself in Kennedy ’ s mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backseat next to my wife / And it ’ s straight on into the afterlife / I ’ m leaning to the left I got my head in her lap … But “ Murder Most Foul ” isn ’ t only about ― to quote Billy Joel ’ s “ We Didn ’ t Start the Fire ” ― “ JFK / Blown away / What else do I have to say ?
” NPR noticed references to at least 73 other songs in the ballad .
Slate pointed out hat tips to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ King Cole and even Queen .
Although many people are speculating the new song means a new Dylan album may be released soon , his people would not confirm anything to that effect , according to Variety .
Take a listen for yourself and let us know what you think in the comments .

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Like many musicians, Bob Dylan responded to the coronavirus outbreak by releasing new music.
However, the legendary songwriter is probably the only artist whose new song is focused on the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
On Thursday night, Dylan released his first original tune in eight years ― “Murder Most Foul,” a 17-minute epic that focuses on the killing of Kennedy.
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According to Dylan’s tweet, the song was recorded a while back, but Variety noted that could mean “a matter of months or many years.”
Greetings to my fans and followers with gratitude for all your support and loyalty across the years.
This is an unreleased song we recorded a while back that you might find interesting.
Stay safe, stay observant and may God be with you.
Bob Dylanhttps://t.co/uJnE4X64Bb — bobdylan.com (@bobdylan) March 27, 2020
The song doesn’t sugarcoat things, mentioning that “they blew off his head while he was still in the car” in the first stanza.
Dylan also puts himself in Kennedy’s mind in some verses:
Riding in the backseat next to my wife / And it’s straight on into the afterlife / I’m leaning to the left I got my head in her lap …
But “Murder Most Foul” isn’t only about ― to quote Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire” ― “JFK / Blown away / What else do I have to say?”
NPR noticed references to at least 73 other songs in the ballad. Slate pointed out hat tips to the Beatles, Stevie Nicks, Nat King Cole and even Queen.
Although many people are speculating the new song means a new Dylan album may be released soon, his people would not confirm anything to that effect, according to Variety.
Take a listen for yourself and let us know what you think in the comments.