Fit Informer

Blindish Latina Founder Catarina Rivera Is Educating People on Disability Bias

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 15:37:05 +0000

“Disability pride is an important concept for me. I’m proud of who I am, and that includes everything about me — including my disability,” says Catarina Rivera, a public speaker, DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) consultant, and content creator. Rivera, who was born and raised in Maryland, has been disabled her entire life. But that’s not stopping her from living a purposeful life filled with excitement and adventure. She was diagnosed as hard of hearing at a young age and has been wearing hearing aids since she was a toddler. Then at 17, Rivera was diagnosed with a progressive vision disability called Usher syndrome. “Today, I have a very small window of central vision, and I use a white cane to help me navigate the world,” she says.

Rivera’s condition creates progressive vision loss, which gives her tunnel vision, and despite having a tiny window of visibility, she’s considered to be legally blind. “So many people misunderstand blindness and think that all blind people see a pitch-black world, but in fact, only about 15 percent of us experience total blindness,” she explains. As a means to create positive change within her community, Rivera has been spreading positive knowledge about what it means to live having tunnel vision and having to use a cane.

“I wanted to represent my story and help create awareness among nondisabled people,” she says. “It’s said that knowing just one person of an identity group reduces prejudice and bias. I wanted to be that ‘disabled friend’ online for people that don’t have anyone in their life that’s disabled.”

To better demonstrate, Rivera has taken to her online platform, Blindish Latina, to explain and demystify some common beliefs about blindness, such as not being able to have an education or a career. Rivera herself debunks these myths, as she earned Master of Science in Education and Master of Public Health degrees and is a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies. “My ‘Blindness is a spectrum’ Reel has over five million views, and my ‘Let me tell you why I use a white cane even though I can still see’ Reel has over two million views!” she exclaims. “I want every blind person to feel comfortable using a white cane if it helps them. But many blind people are afraid of using a white cane and then being accused of faking their blindness or being harassed if they do have some remaining vision.”

Rivera herself has been harassed and questioned with comments like, “Why does she use a cane though?” or “Blind people can’t see — this is stupid.” Someone once even commented, “If you can see me, you’re not blind,” with a laugh emoji. But the Latina advocate takes those comments as an opportunity to continue educating the masses.

“To respond to online haters or negative comments, I will share an educational response or let them know where they can obtain resources. If the comment is wholly negative or unpleasant, I will either ignore it or respond with a firm message that asserts my boundaries,” she says. However, Rivera has learned to recognize when it’s nonessential for her to personally educate each commenter. “When necessary, I let go and trust that the resources I’ve already created are enough. Ultimately, I have to protect my energy.”

Rivera shares that she’s observed that there are a lot of nondisabled individuals who don’t believe that disabled people can have lives worth living.”Besides blindness and deafness both being spectrums, I think the largest myth I’ve debunked is that living a disabled life is a terrible life,” she says. “In response to disability, we often hear nondisabled people say things like ‘Oh, I could never live like that’ or ‘I could never deal with being blind. That would be the worst thing.’ These types of comments are rooted in ableism.” Rivera goes on to explain, “Ableism is the idea that nondisabled people are more worthy or valuable than disabled people.”

“I’m living a beautiful life, and I share my disability joy often so that others can see my disability story and start changing their mindset about disability.”

“My story with deafblindness is that my life is exciting, full, and valuable,” Rivera says. “I went indoor skydiving, and I shared a post about that. I went to a salsa brunch in Brooklyn earlier this year, and I showed myself dancing — I’ve been dancing salsa for 19 years. I own a successful business. I took the month of August off and traveled around Greece. I’ve been studying Italian for two years. I’m living a beautiful life, and I share my disability joy often so that others can see my disability story and start changing their mindset about disability.”

Rivera, whose family is Puerto Rican and Cuban, shares she “didn’t encounter a lot of bullying growing up,” in regard to her disabilities. Instead, she was teased about something many Latina women might relate to. “I remember being teased for having hairy arms. I will never forget that,” she says. Moreover, Rivera is totally relatable to the schemes of growing up Latinx. “I love my culture. I love the food, the dancing, the dominoes, the way we can all connect even though we were from different places . . . I felt challenged by my privilege, especially when visiting Cuba. I also felt challenged by feeling in-between, which a lot of Latine people speak about. You don’t belong to your home country anymore but you also don’t quite belong in America.”

Like with many first or second-generation Latinx families, Rivera’s first language was Spanish, even though her parents are both English-dominant. She was in high school when she realized the privilege she held within her community with having a mom and dad who held higher education degrees and were avid English speakers.

“My parents both have master’s degrees and are English-dominant. I grew up in the suburbs and had a fairly sheltered life,” she recalls. “In high school, through a nonprofit organization, I met other Latine teenagers with very different lives. They had stories of challenges in school, discrimination, violence, etc.”

But recognizing that privilege is what moved the Latina activist to do something worthy within her community. Her desire to do impactful work has been a guiding star throughout her entire career path. Rivera began her career in education before continuing in public health and food justice work. Today, she focuses on disability inclusion and creating “a better world for all of us,” she says, adding her ultimate goal is to create a world that’s inclusive for everyone and where disabled people can thrive.

In addition to her work as a content creator, Rivera is spreading the word on disability through public speaking. In 2022 she delivered four keynote addresses while also being named a LinkedIn Top Voice in Disability Advocacy. Furthermore, she became a TEDx speaker, was featured in Forbes, was on live TV for the first time on ABC News Live, and hired a team of three.

“While many companies and organizations have DEI plans, many of them don’t include disability,” she says. “Oftentimes, companies and organizations haven’t understood that disabled people represent a large group of people.”

According to 2018 data from the CDC, one in four adults in the United States reports being disabled. Rivera makes the valid point that disabled people are in the workforce, customers, and also clients. To rectify the current workplace, her public speaking and consulting business helps companies begin or continue their disability-inclusion journeys to create better workplaces for everyone. The entrepreneur asserts her ultimate goal is to help create a world that’s inclusive for everyone “and where disabled people can thrive.”

And while sometimes people may think they’re being helpful, the advocate mentions it’s not always that way. “Don’t touch white canes or any other mobility aid. It’s an extension of a disabled person’s body,” Rivera says. “If you want to offer assistance to a blind person, ask them if they need help, and do not touch them or violate their personal space. If they say no, respect their response. They know what’s best for them.” Rivera notes this goes for all disabled people and indicates it’s only ethical to ask someone if they require help before automatically making the assumption they do.

To learn more on how you can address your disability bias make sure to visit Rivera’s site catarinarivera.com.

Image Source: Nikki Rumph of Shots by Nik

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm, New from Charlie Mackesy

(4851318)

HKD 116.06 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Three Days in June: A funny, touching, hopeful story of love, marriage and second chances

(42522104)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Trip She Booked: A Marriage In Crisis Romance (Choosing Herself Book 3)

(38531)

HKD 23.57 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Things I Told My Notes App: The Funny And Candid Guide To Living Your Best Life From A Self-Proclaimed Oversharer

HKD 170.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Spare Room: Later in Life Marriage in Crisis Romance (Marriage In Crisis Series)

(41524)

HKD 23.68 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Bimbo: THE INSTANT #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER, How to Ditch the Labels that Hold Women Back and Reclaim Your Confidence

(475107)

HKD 116.27 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage

(45511816)

HKD 105.59 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Taming 7: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(46536403)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Binding 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47518184)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband’s Secret Texts to My Sister: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 5)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post Blindish Latina Founder Catarina Rivera Is Educating People on Disability Bias appeared first on Fit Informer.

Kettlebells for Strength & Endurance

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 07:28:36 +0000

Kettlebell exercises can have major contributions to posterior chain health. They are unique because they create a style of movement that stresses mobility and coordination. With these practical benefits, knowing whether to apply them for strength training or endurance training is paramount for achieving peak exercise optimization.

Understanding the Kettlebell

Kettlebells operate in an inverted manner to barbells and dumbbells. While two-hand (bilateral) movements are mostly associated with barbell strength exercises, kettlebells use them to test endurance. On the other side, dumbbells isolate single muscles while single-arm (unilateral) kettlebell exercises test strength. This is because of the anatomy of the kettlebell, its greatest attribute.

They are also unique in shape and weight distribution compared to dumbbells. The weight of a dumbbell is distributed between two points of gravity, found at the ends of each handle. A kettlebell only has one point of gravity, all within the bell. In some cases, a kettlebell may feel heavier because its weight is not split in half by the handle. This explains why kettlebells can test both strength and endurance.

Endurance

Two-handed kettlebell workouts, unlike most bilateral exercises, are best for high-rep sets. These can test your speed and endurance. Since the weight is controlled with two hands on the handle, the resistance is easier on the posterior chain. That does not mean every bilateral exercise is slow and steady. The kettlebell swing activates the fast-twitch muscles in the hips. So more reps are completed in less time.

EMOM (Every Minute, On the Minute) training can optimize high-intensity kettlebell training. This requires a designated amount of reps to be completed at the start of every minute. EMOM is a test for form as well as physical and mental endurance. During the rest period, think about how the form can be improved for the next set in addition to gasping for air. A beginner can practice EMOM with kettlebell swings with 10 reps for 10 minutes.

Strength

Two hands on the handle teaches the body the essential kettlebell movements, but this has its limitations. The speed of these movements can hinder mind-muscle connection. The body is moving so fast that it can be hard to notice what is actually working. One-hand (unilateral) kettlebell exercises give users time to focus on this.

Strength can be tested through these movements for low reps. Despite slowing down, a kettlebell is more difficult to control with only one hand. While one side of the body is trying to maintain control over the weight, the other half is trying to resist twisting, keeping the hips and shoulders square. This calls for more core engagement and grip strength, too. A one-hand kettlebell swing adds onto the bilateral version by testing shoulder and hip stability on one side.

The unilateral movements also open the door for kettlebell flows. Imagine yoga with weights. Connecting movements reflects an understanding of them, showing how seamless one can flow into another. The movements recruit a lot of the same muscles in the posterior chain. An entire workout can be done through flows, working the hamstrings, glutes, lats, shoulders, and core.

Example Flows:

Swing → Clean → Overhead Press
Clean → Overhead Press (option to pause at lockout)→ Reverse Lunge
Swing → Snatch → Windmill

The king of kettlebell flows is the Turkish Getup. This requires communication with the entire posterior chain from top to bottom. No matter how slow the pace gets, everything from the breath to the mind-muscle connections have to be in check. The starting press prepares the shoulder for constant stability. Getting up tests hip mobility through rotations and balance. Once the top lockout is reached, the entire flow has to be reversed. Did I mention the core is engaged too? For these reasons, the Turkish Getup is a popular finisher for any workout.

If you are advanced in kettlebells, practicing the movements with dual-grips can further test strength. This involves executing the single-hand movements with two kettlebells simultaneously. It adds more focus on balancing the body and coordinating each side to be at an even pace with every movement.

Which One?

It’s not a matter of which grip to choose for a kettlebell workout: both are necessary. The two-hand grip lays the foundation for one-handed movements. Meanwhile, the single-hand grip can make the two-handed movements faster. A well-rounded kettlebell routine contains both strength and endurance. They can be practiced on the same day or separated in a weekly split. One day can involve practicing the single-hand exercises while another can focus on two-hand movements. That’s why the kettlebells are special: they can be used to anyone’s liking.

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar for My Best Friend: A Marriage of Betrayal, Infidelity and Revenge Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 3)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Secret My Husband Sent Another Woman: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 1)

(32516)

HKD 23.57 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Binding 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47518184)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Keeping 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47517808)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Wife He Let Go: A Marriage Betrayal Romance of Divorce, Healing and Letting Go

(40571)

HKD 25.26 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Diagnosis He Kept: Later in Life Marriage in Crisis Romance (Marriage In Crisis Series)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Saving 6: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(46545264)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Ring She Removed: Later in Life Marriage in Crisis Romance (Marriage In Crisis Series)

(3853)

HKD 23.78 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Ghost Stories: A Memoir - 'What a kind, honest book. What a gift of love' David Mitchell

HKD 225.88 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Three Days in June: A funny, touching, hopeful story of love, marriage and second chances

(42522104)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post Kettlebells for Strength & Endurance appeared first on Fit Informer.

What Is RxPass, and Can It Save You Money on Prescription Medication?

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 03:15:50 +0000

Taking prescription medications is routine for many Americans. In fact, about 66 percent of US adults take prescription drugs, according to the 2021 Health Policy Institute — while “nearly half of adults take 2 or more medications daily & many find it hard to afford them,” Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon, tweeted.

That’s why — in addition to hoping to boost subscriptions — on Tuesday, Jan. 24, Amazon announced the addition of a generic prescription perk for Prime members. Available only at Amazon Pharmacy, RxPass is a monthly subscription add-on that lets Prime members purchase multiple generic medications for one flat fee of $5. It gives members access to a list of up to 50 drugs for common conditions like high blood pressure, anxiety, and diabetes. The chief medical officer of Amazon Pharmacy said that over 150 million people in the US already take one or more of the medications offered.

In light of the offer, social media is already making jokes at the US healthcare system’s expense. “When private corporations offer a better deal on medicine than the government,” writes one user. While it’s not a replacement for insurance, the company noted on its site that its flat fee is often cheaper than going through traditional pharmacies using insurance.

This isn’t the first time the e-commerce behemoth has dabbled in healthcare. In 2020, Amazon launched its own online pharmacy after acquiring PillPack in 2018. It also launched Amazon Care, a telehealth service, which was shut down at the end of last year. In July 2022, it acquired One Medical in place of it. But how does its new service, RxPass, really work — and is it worth it? We break down everything you need to know below.

What Is RxPass?

RxPass is an Amazon Prime add-on that will now allow US-based members to purchase from a list of 50 generic medications used to treat more than 80 common chronic conditions. Among the list are medications to treat high blood pressure, anxiety, and diabetes. However, it doesn’t offer specialty medications like insulin. Also, it’s not a replacement for insurance. The service itself costs $5/month per person, on top of the Prime membership of $14.99 per month. It offers discounts of up to 80 percent on generic drugs and up to 40 percent on brand-name prescriptions. Delivery is free.

How Does RxPass Work?

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you’d subscribe to RxPass for an additional $5/month. That means you can get all of your prescribed medication available via Amazon pharmacy to be filled as often as needed for the same flat monthly fee.

Amazon pharmacists or support staff are available to discuss medications and coordinate with your doctor, Amazon reports. And RxPass also allows for auto refill, so depending on the prescription, RxPass members will have the choice to have their medications delivered on either a monthly or quarterly basis. You can find the full list of medication included here and search by medication or by condition to confirm if they carry what you need.

Does RxPass Take Insurance?

With RxPass, you don’t need to use insurance because instead you’re paying with the flat fee. (And no, you can’t use your HSA or FSA to pay the monthly fee.) The service can be helpful to those without insurance or in the case when insurance doesn’t cover certain medications. For example, if you’re paying more than $5 a month on all of your medication, RxPass would be more cost effective. For other medication needs, Amazon Pharmacy accepts most insurance plans.

Worth mentioning: RxPass is restricted based on the state where the prescription will be shipped. For example, it’s not currently available in California, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington. Customers who are enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid are also unable to enroll in the service. But they can still fill their prescriptions at Amazon Pharmacy using government insurance.

Image Source: MirageC / Getty

No More Nappies: With helpful tips for potty training (Campbell Big Steps, 2)

(46510002)

HKD 52.21 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Three Days in June: A funny, touching, hopeful story of love, marriage and second chances

(42522104)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar for My Twin Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Infidelity and Revenge Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 7)

(5052)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Hungry: A biography of my body

HKD 165.95 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband’s Secret Texts to My Sister: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 5)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Releasing 10 (The Boys of Tommen)

(47518751)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Broken Vows: Abandoned at the Altar, Pregnant, and Trapped by a Possessive Billionaire

(5051)

HKD 42.17 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Contract Wife He Never Expected: A Billionaire Marriage of Convenience Romance of Unexpected Love

HKD 25.58 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Bimbo: THE INSTANT #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER, How to Ditch the Labels that Hold Women Back and Reclaim Your Confidence

(475107)

HKD 116.27 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Things I Told My Notes App: The Funny And Candid Guide To Living Your Best Life From A Self-Proclaimed Oversharer

HKD 170.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post What Is RxPass, and Can It Save You Money on Prescription Medication? appeared first on Fit Informer.

The Best Snow Pants That Will Help You Brave Any Cold Weather With Confidence

admin — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 15:13:44 +0000

As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you’ll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.

I typically wear thermal leggings under my jeans when the temperature hits below zero degrees, but lately, with the frigid days we’ve been seeing on the East Coast, even that combination doesn’t feel like enough. So I’ve turned to snow pants as a more effective solution to going outside without getting frostbite. While these are typically worn for skiing or snowboarding, they’re built to protect against cold snaps, which makes them totally suitable for regular outings, if you ask me. Why not bend the rule if the snow pants will keep you warm?

Whether you’re preparing to hit the slopes or looking for better wind-breaking pants (to complement your puffer jackets), I’ve researched the best snow pants available for a variety of price points. Consider these worthy investments for getting some time in the sun even as winter rages on.

Why Does Everybody Hate Me?: Living and Loving with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria

(48555)

HKD 141.42 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

No More Nappies: With helpful tips for potty training (Campbell Big Steps, 2)

(46510002)

HKD 52.21 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Menopause and ADHD: How to navigate hormone flux and neurodivergence (Vermilion Empowered)

HKD 157.91 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Age: Supercharge Your Health and Feel Better Than Ever

HKD 181.69 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Keeping 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47517808)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband’s Secret Texts to My Sister: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 5)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Spare Room: Later in Life Marriage in Crisis Romance (Marriage In Crisis Series)

(41524)

HKD 23.68 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage

(45511816)

HKD 105.59 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar for My Best Friend: A Marriage of Betrayal, Infidelity and Revenge Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 3)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Three Days in June: A funny, touching, hopeful story of love, marriage and second chances

(42522104)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post The Best Snow Pants That Will Help You Brave Any Cold Weather With Confidence appeared first on Fit Informer.

FDA Proposes a Plan For an Annual COVID Shot — What to Know

admin — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 03:10:36 +0000

Getting the flu shot has become an annual tradition for many of us, providing yearly protection from one of the most common infectious diseases. Soon, we may be following a similar procedure for COVID vaccinations.

On Jan. 23, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed that healthy adults get an annual dosage of the latest COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA also “asked its panel of external advisers to consider the usage of two COVID vaccine shots a year for some young children, older adults and persons with compromised immunity,” per Reuters.

The White House first suggested the move towards annual vaccination in a Sept. 6 press briefing. “This week, we begin a new phase in our COVID-19 response. We are launching a new vaccine — our first in almost two years — with a new approach. For most Americans, that means one COVID-19 shot, once a year, each fall,” President Joe Biden said in a statement at the time.

At the same briefing, former Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci said, “It is becoming increasingly clear that, looking forward with the COVID-19 pandemic, in the absence of a dramatically different variant, we likely are moving towards a path with a vaccination cadence similar to that of the annual influenza vaccine, with annual, updated COVID-19 shots matched to the currently circulating strains for most of the population.”

However, Dr. Fauci said that some groups of people — in particular, vulnerable populations — may need more frequent vaccinations. Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, how long immunity lasts, and how often you’ll need to get vaccinated.

Will I Need a COVID-19 Vaccine Every Year?

Based on the FDA and White House’s most recent announcements, it seems that annual COVID-19 vaccinations could be in our future.

The annual vaccines, as proposed by the FDA, would be simplified compared to the current vaccination and booster recommendations. The original COVID vaccines would likely be retired, and the newer bivalent doses (which target broad protection against COVID-19 and COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant) would be used instead, per the New York Times. Not everyone is on board with the proposal, however. The FDA is scheduled to meet on Jan. 26 to discuss the possible frequency of vaccination and which doses will be offered.

How Long Does COVID-19 Immunity Last After Vaccination?

During the September press briefing, Dr. Fauci said regarding effectiveness, that “data from the pivotal COVID-19 mRNA vaccine efficacy trials in 2020 showed a remarkable 94 to 95 percent efficacy against symptomatic disease.”

“We later learned through real-world evidence that vaccine protection, particularly against infection, wanes over time but that additional doses enhance protection particularly against severe disease leading to hospitalization or death,” he continued.

So we know that vaccines boost your immunity and protect you against the most severe consequences of the virus. However, there’s not enough data to yet know exactly how long immunity lasts and to what extent.

Are COVID-19 Vaccines Effective Against New Variations?

Dr. Fauci stated that the updated vaccinations are expected to perform well and protect people more effectively against the SARS-CoV-2 subvariants. He continued, “we fully expect that the updated bivalent vaccines containing BA.4 and BA.5 sequences will offer better protection against currently circulating strains than the original vaccines, although it is difficult to predict at this point how much better that protection will be.” Since then, the latest strain XBB.1.5 or “The Kraken Variant” has gained attention as the most transmissible variant to date. Still, experts believe vaccines will offer the necessary protections.

As we continue to navigate this pandemic, many people are experiencing vaccination fatigue — there’s been a lot of shots, anxiety, and uncertainty. But Dr. Fauci has been clear: get your updated COVID shot as soon as possible to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

In the meantime, and as Americans continue to get vaccinated, it’s important to continue doing what we can to protect ourselves and others: washing your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds, being mindful of large crowds and indoor events, and wearing a face mask in public, especially in larger crowds and if you’re not fully vaccinated or immunocompromised.

—Additional reporting by Sara Youngblood Gregory and Alexis Jones

POPSUGAR aims to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information about the coronavirus, but details and recommendations about this pandemic may have changed since publication. For the latest information on COVID-19, please check out resources from the WHO, the CDC, and local public health departments.

Image Source: Getty Images / Richard Drury jgroup Photo Illustration by Ava Cruz

Hungry: A biography of my body

HKD 165.95 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Other People's Marriages: The BRAND NEW captivating family drama that will keep you guessing

(405476)

HKD 10.46 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Wife He Accused: A Billionaire Marriage-in-Crisis, Second Chance Romance

(5051)

HKD 31.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar For My Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Revenge and Second Chance Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 2)

(4157)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Menopause and ADHD: How to navigate hormone flux and neurodivergence (Vermilion Empowered)

HKD 157.91 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Secret Texts My Husband Sent Another Woman: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 9)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband’s Secret Texts to My Sister: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 5)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Menopausing: Book of the Year, The British Book Awards 2023, and Sunday Times bestselling self-help guide, to help you cope with symptoms and live your best life during menopause

(4754531)

HKD 116.16 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Keeping 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47517808)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Best Thing That Ever Happened: A BRAND NEW uplifting, summery romance from bestseller Sarah Bennett for 2026 (Halfmoon Quay Book 3)

(475245)

HKD 31.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post FDA Proposes a Plan For an Annual COVID Shot — What to Know appeared first on Fit Informer.

Get Strong, Shapely Legs With This Do-Anywhere Leg Workout

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 14:56:07 +0000

These moves, forming part of a killer leg workout, works *hard* to build lean muscle and firm those legs fast.

The explosive moves (plyometrics) in this leg workout increase strength and help your body absorb impact to prevent injuries, says Juan Carlos Santana, director of the Institute of Human Performance in Florida.

Warm up for 10 minutes and do two sets of eight reps twice a week. Or, slot them into your regular workout and witness the burn in your glutes, core and quads.

Vertical Jumps

Level: Moderate
Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart and your arms slightly in front of you. Squat down about 45 degrees and jump up as high as you can. Land on the balls of your feet, but make sure your whole foot touches the ground before repeating immediately.

Long Jumps

Level: Advanced
Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart. Get into a quarter squat and immediately jump forward as far and as high as you can. Bring your arms in front for balance as you jump. For a more challenging move, jump forward over obstacles like cones or sticks.

Lateral Obstacle Jumps

Level: Olympian
Stand next to a step or cone with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands in front of you for balance. Get into a quarter squat and jump as high as you can laterally over the obstacle, landing on both feet. As soon as you touch the floor, jump back the other way.

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm, New from Charlie Mackesy

(4851318)

HKD 116.06 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Saving 6: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(46545264)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Wife He Accused: A Billionaire Marriage-in-Crisis, Second Chance Romance

(5051)

HKD 31.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Raise a Gentle Man: A guide for parents and carers who want to raise kind, emotionally intelligent and respectful boys

HKD 147.45 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Age: Supercharge Your Health and Feel Better Than Ever

HKD 181.69 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Contract Wife He Never Expected: A Billionaire Marriage of Convenience Romance of Unexpected Love

HKD 25.58 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Hungry: A biography of my body

HKD 165.95 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar For My Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Revenge and Second Chance Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 2)

(4157)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Secure: Rewire Your Attachment Style and Transform Your Relationships, Health and Happiness, from the bestselling co-author of Attached

(4459)

HKD 127.58 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage

(45511816)

HKD 105.59 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post Get Strong, Shapely Legs With This Do-Anywhere Leg Workout appeared first on Fit Informer.

This 10-Minute Low-Impact HIIT Workout Proves You Don’t Need to Jump to Sweat Buckets

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 14:56:03 +0000

Get ready to work out with fitness trainer Natalie White, who will be leading this 10-minute low-impact HIIT workout joined by Jai Jordan and AJ Morales. In this routine, you’ll start with a quick warmup to get your body moving, then work your way into lunges, mountain climbers, crab walks, and so much more. This routine moves quickly and efficiently to get your heart rate up without putting a ton of impact on your joints. Plus, White offers plenty of modifications and advancements so you can tailor the workout to your needs and abilities. Find a space and grab a mat to get started!

Don’t miss new episodes of Class Fitsugar, now every Sunday on the POPSUGAR Fitness YouTube channel.

White’s outfit: Old Navy // Shoes: APL

Jordan’s outfit: Uniqlo // Shoes: APL

Morales’s outfit: Athleta // Shoes: APL

Image Source: POPSUGAR Video

The Guilty Couple: The must-read Richard & Judy Book Club pick for 2023 from the Sunday Times million-copy crime thriller bestseller

(41515892)

HKD 10.46 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Raise a Gentle Man: A guide for parents and carers who want to raise kind, emotionally intelligent and respectful boys

HKD 147.45 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar For My Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Revenge and Second Chance Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 2)

(4157)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Best Thing That Ever Happened: A BRAND NEW uplifting, summery romance from bestseller Sarah Bennett for 2026 (Halfmoon Quay Book 3)

(475245)

HKD 31.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm, New from Charlie Mackesy

(4851318)

HKD 116.06 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband. My Best Friend: A Scandalous Marriage Betrayal Romance of Infidelity, Secrets, and Her Rise to Power

HKD 31.71 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar for My Best Friend: A Marriage of Betrayal, Infidelity and Revenge Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 3)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Wedding People: The hilarious and moving million-copy bestseller

(425168536)

HKD 57.92 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Wean Your Baby: The step-by-step plan to help your baby love their broccoli as much as their cake

(4752121)

HKD 155.90 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband’s Secret Texts to My Sister: A Marriage in Crisis Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 5)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post This 10-Minute Low-Impact HIIT Workout Proves You Don’t Need to Jump to Sweat Buckets appeared first on Fit Informer.

Shania Twain Opens Up About the Voice Changes That Came With Lyme Disease

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 02:54:36 +0000

In 2002, Shania Twain became the first-ever artist with three RIAA Diamond-certified albums (meaning, she sold more than 10 million copies of each), according to E! News. Then, in 2003, she lost her voice. She saw doctors for six or seven years, and one finally realized it was due to nerve damage from Lyme disease, which she contracted while horseback riding. Now, she’s opening up about this difficult period in her life in a new interview with InStyle.

Twain didn’t sing for years after she got Lyme disease. It took two “open-throat” surgeries and a lot of persuading from her longtime friends Gladys Knight and Lionel Richie to finally try again in 2011. “After I had the surgery, I was petrified to make a sound. I didn’t know what was going to come out,” Twain told Instyle.

When she finally did, she was pleasantly surprised. “It did scare me, but I just had to take the leap and make a sound. And I was so excited about what came out,” she said. “It was a connection to the vocal cords and it came out very easily. I was really, really, really excited.”

Her voice is still different from before Lyme disease and the surgeries, something that’s evident in both her singing and speaking. But her new voice has also allowed her to take the stage once again. Twain went on to do two artist residencies in Las Vegas, as well as multiple tours.

“It’s easier for me to make loud sounds than it is to make soft sounds,” she told InStyle. She says she’s learned to work with the changes, including singing with the Gore-Tex rods that stabilize her throat. “When the air is dry, it’s harder to get that resonance. When I’m loud, it happens, which was the opposite problem before I got the surgery.”

This isn’t the first time Twain has opened up about her voice changes and battle with Lyme disease. She also detailed her experience in the Netflix documentary “Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl,” which was released in July 2022. In it, the trailblazing singer talks about everything from her divorce to the tick bite the gave her Lyme disease and how it drastically changed her life.

“I thought I’d lost my voice forever.”

“My symptoms were quite scary because before I was diagnosed, I was on stage very dizzy. I was losing my balance, I was afraid I was gonna fall off the stage,” Twain shared, noting that this was also during the peak of her career. She had released her album “Come on Over” a few years prior, and she was preparing to go on tour when she was experiencing symptoms of the disease. “I was having these very, very, very millisecond blackouts, but regularly, every minute or every 30 seconds,” Twain added. She explained that she would stand farther back on stage, away from the edge, because she was afraid of falling. And then there was the worst symptom of all: “My voice was never the same again,” Twain said. “I thought I’d lost my voice forever.”

Lyme disease is caused by a specific bacteria spread through the bite of infected ticks. There are various symptoms associated with long-term Lyme disease — including muscle and joint pain, episodes of dizziness, nerve pain, headaches, and facial palsy — and they can persist for months or even years. Doctors disagree about exactly why symptoms continue even after treatment.

Still, against all odds, Twain has made an incredible comeback, which continues with her latest album, “Queen of Me,” which comes out Feb. 3.

No More Nappies: With helpful tips for potty training (Campbell Big Steps, 2)

(46510002)

HKD 52.21 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Secrets of the Starlit Sea: The spellbinding and stunningly romantic new novel from the number one bestselling author! (Timeslider)

(4452444)

HKD 52.74 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Bimbo: THE INSTANT #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER, How to Ditch the Labels that Hold Women Back and Reclaim Your Confidence

(475107)

HKD 116.27 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

My Husband Betrayed Me at the Altar For My Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Revenge and Second Chance Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 2)

(4157)

HKD 23.36 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: The Sunday Times Bestseller

(465270381)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Releasing 10 (The Boys of Tommen)

(47518751)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Things I Told My Notes App: The Funny And Candid Guide To Living Your Best Life From A Self-Proclaimed Oversharer

HKD 170.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Love Wells Kept: The must read spicy, heartwarming and heartbreaking cowboy romance that will have you LASSOED! (Wells Ranch Book 5)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

How to Wean Your Baby: The step-by-step plan to help your baby love their broccoli as much as their cake

(4752121)

HKD 155.90 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Wedding People: The hilarious and moving million-copy bestseller

(425168536)

HKD 57.92 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post Shania Twain Opens Up About the Voice Changes That Came With Lyme Disease appeared first on Fit Informer.

Jennifer Garner’s Box-Jump Workout Is Not For the Faint of Heart

admin — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 14:52:03 +0000

If you’re craving a 15-second cardio challenge, look no further than Jennifer Garner‘s latest Instagram workout. The actress recently joined her trainer, Beth Nicely, for an intense box-jump sequence, and it’s guaranteed to create a burn in your legs and lungs.

For this mini cardio burst, all you need is a low-elevated surface, like an aerobic stepper. Place it length-wise in front of you (perpendicular to your body) and make sure it’s stable, because you’re going to be jumping all over this thing. Starting with your feet on either side of the stepper, jump up with both feet together on top of the stepper, then back down, and repeat four times. Then, hop onto the stepper with one foot at a time, then jump back down and alternate feet, also for four reps. Finish off the workout with four twisting jumps, where you jump both feet onto the stepper while twisting to the left, then repeating to the right.

This box-jump sequence is a great mini cardio finisher if you’re looking for something plyometric (aka jumping-focused) to tack onto the end of your workout, or for a super-fast standalone circuit. Garner’s exhausted walk at the end will tell you all you need to know about how effective this routine is. That, and the comments from some of Garner’s famous friends: “I’m winded watching that,” Gwyneth Paltrow writes in the comment section. “I have to go back to bed now,” adds Rita Wilson. Same and same.

It’s not the first time Garner and Nicely have spotlighted this workout. Nicely originally posted the snippet back in March and Garner shared it again yesterday in honor of her trainer’s birthday, adding the caption, “Happy birthday, you beautiful little devil.” An appropriate message to capture that love-hate (but mostly love!) relationship so many of us have with our trainers, no?

Note that if you do want to try this quick cardio burst, you can always modify by simply removing the stepper and doing the jumps on flat ground. You can also take out the jumping altogether and simply step in and out instead of hopping. On the other hand, if you want even more intensity, try repeating the sequence three to five times through. (Just make sure to warm up beforehand and cool down after!) Whatever style you choose, your sweat will be flying by the end of this fast sequence. Grab your stepper and jump right in.

The Wife He Let Go: A Marriage Betrayal Romance of Divorce, Healing and Letting Go

(40571)

HKD 25.26 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Trip She Booked: A Marriage In Crisis Romance (Choosing Herself Book 3)

(38531)

HKD 23.57 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Quiet Wife: A totally addictive, unputdownable stunning crime mystery suspense thriller perfect for 2026!

(4053452)

HKD 50.63 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Enough: Your Health, Your Weight, and What It's Like To Be Free

(455591)

HKD 116.16 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Things I Told My Notes App: The Funny And Candid Guide To Living Your Best Life From A Self-Proclaimed Oversharer

HKD 170.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Ghost Stories: A Memoir - 'What a kind, honest book. What a gift of love' David Mitchell

HKD 225.88 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Dogs, Boys and Other Things I've Cried About

HKD 162.67 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Keeping 13: Epic, emotional and addictive romance from the TikTok phenomenon (The Boys of Tommen)

(47517808)

HKD 63.31 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Secure: Rewire Your Attachment Style and Transform Your Relationships, Health and Happiness, from the bestselling co-author of Attached

(4459)

HKD 127.58 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The Secret Texts My Husband Sent My Sister: A Marriage of Betrayal, Infidelity and Revenge Romance (Her Marriage in Crisis Book 8)

HKD 23.25 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.

The post Jennifer Garner’s Box-Jump Workout Is Not For the Faint of Heart appeared first on Fit Informer.

What Is the “Kraken Variant” of COVID-19?

admin — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 02:40:00 +0000

Another day, another COVID-19 variant permeates our vocabulary and even more so, our society. The latest variant to grace us with its presence is known as XBB.1.5, nicknamed the Kraken.

The variant has spread quickly, going from 1 percent of cases nationwide in December to 43 percent of cases as of Jan. 13, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “It is the most transmissible subvariant that has been detected yet,” said Maria Van Kerkhove, COVID-19 technical lead for the World Health Organization, during a recent press conference in Geneva.

“Even people who have protection from vaccination or a recent case of COVID-19 have been infected,” said Yale Medicine infectious diseases specialist Scott Roberts, MD, in a Yale Medicine write-up.

So what is about XBB.1.5 that makes it so easily transmissible. Why is it being called the Kraken? And how can you protect yourself against the latest strain? Here’s what experts want you to know.

What Is the COVID-19 Kraken Variant?

XBB.1.5, or the Kraken, “is an Omicron subvariant that is increasing in prevalence in the US,” Amesh Adalja, MD, senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security told POPSUGAR. “It is notable for having evolved key mutations that make it more transmissible.” According to Yale Medicine, this variant’s arrival in the US can be traced back to October 2022 in New York. It is a recombinant, or hybrid subvariant, meaning it’s actually made up of two strains — both of which stem from the Omicron BA.2 sublineage. “The good news is that early data suggest that symptoms are very similar to Omicron, and other Omicron lineages, and infection does not appear to lead to more severe illness,” says Andrea Love, PhD, immunologist and microbiologist and advisory board member for POPSUGAR’s Condition Center.

Why Is It Called the Kraken?

It turns out that Ryan Gregory, an evolutionary biology professor at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, is responsible for this variant’s unique name. Gregory told Fortune that he was inspired by someone on Twitter who referred to Omicron’s BA.2.75 variant “Centaurus.” In an effort to make it easier for health leaders — and everyone, really — to discuss the emerging XBB.1.5, Gregory offered up the Kraken. “It is important to remember that this is not a name given by an official virology organization (that do nomenclature for viruses), but rather by individuals, and subsequently amplified on social media channels,” Dr. Love tells POPSUGAR.

In other words, it’s a tongue-in-cheek nickname — and not the first that’s emerged since COVID-19 first became a reality. (Remember the dozens of joking names we used in place of “pandemic,” for instance? Panorama, panini, Panasonic.)

The name itself stems from a mythological creature (like the one released in “Clash of the Titans”). It’s often depicted as large and aggressive — a seemingly accurate way to describe XBB.1.5 given its high transmissibility and rapid spread across the nation.

How Can You Best Protect Yourself Against the Kraken Variant?

“The same mitigation measures that protected you against Omicron and all previous variants will be helpful here,” says Dr. Love. Her list of strategies include vaccinations, including an up-to-date booster dose if you have not received one; masks, especially in crowded public placed with poor ventilation; general hygiene practices; good ventilation; testing before gatherings; and if you do get sick, especially if you fall within the higher risk category, getting access to treatment methods, like Paxlovid.

Are Current mRNA Vaccines Equipped to Protect Against the Kraken?

There isn’t much data on exactly how well current vaccines protect against XBB.1.5, per Yale Medicine. But what’s important to remember is that, “current vaccines are protective against what matters: severe disease, hospitalization, and death,” Dr. Adalja says. If you’re concerned about your protection, consider re-upping on your booster shots. The most recent ones were designed to target BA.4 and BA.5 (also Omicron subvariants), “so it might be expected that they would work at least to some extent against another Omicron strain,” per Yale Medicine. “While not a perfect match for this newest variant, vaccines will still offer more protection than not being vaccinated,” Dr. Love says.

The Best Thing That Ever Happened: A BRAND NEW uplifting, summery romance from bestseller Sarah Bennett for 2026 (Halfmoon Quay Book 3)

(475245)

HKD 31.60 (as of April 20, 2026 06:29 GMT +00:00 - )

The post What Is the “Kraken Variant” of COVID-19? appeared first on Fit Informer.