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Viva
What it means to be a woman. Viva explores the lives of women, from the workplace to home, family, adventure, ambition, and more.
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Top Stories
Stories in Viva that you’ll love, handpicked by our team.
Thank You Female Product Companies For Normalizing Human
I was born in 1990. In May, smack dab early mid-year. I am quite LITERALLY the definition of a '90's' kid. I don't remember a lot of commercials from when I was younger, but I do know that growing up women in media were photoshopped, sculpted, and molded to be Barbie perfect.
By Hope Martin4 months ago in Viva
Horror and Hope. Content Warning.
I am late entering this challenge, because I thought long and hard which woman has inspired me the most. I chose this person because I genuinely believe she deserves recognition for her outstanding skills and character in the face of adversity: Stanislawa Leszczyńska. She was a Polish midwife who was incarcerated in Auschwitz in 1943. She attended many births during that time. 3,000 babies were born under her care.
By Sam The Doula (Blooming Miracle)5 months ago in Viva
Women Know Hockey, Stop Pretending They Don't
Gather 'round, readers! Today is International Women's Day, and I have a story to tell. In 2014, I watched and followed the hockey games from that year's Winter Olympics. I watched the US men's team reach the semifinals of the tournament, which are the medal rounds. We faced Canada. We lost to Canada, because of course we do. So we had to play for Bronze. We faced off against Finland. Finland beat us like we stole something. A 6-0 loss in the Bronze Medal Game, while Canada defeated Sweden to get the Gold.
By Clyde E. Dawkins5 months ago in Viva
Hey Girl
I remember going to get Chinese food after church every Sunday as a kid and I would obsess over the fact that my animal according to the Chinese calendar was the dragon. As a little girl, I remember thinking I was special because I was the most mystic of all the creatures! Anyone born in the year of 1988 was the year of the dragon, and so an animal represents each new year. The order of the animal signs is fixed, with the dragon being the fifth in the cycle, therefore the “Year of the Dragon” is 2024.
By Natasha Collazo5 months ago in Viva
Collections
Themed story collections curated by the Vocal moderators.
#metoo
You are not alone. Together we can de-stigmatize speaking out about our experiences with sexual harassment, assault, and more.
Swaay
SWAAY is a ground-breaking media and online publishing company that harnesses the style and glamour of today’s business-minded woman. SWAAY is dedicated to celebrating the stories of established and emerging entrepreneurs to advance more women into the forefronts of innovation and entrepreneurship through visually inspiring and intellectually engaging content.
Body Talk
Your body, your choice? A place to debate and discuss the complexities and controversies surrounding women's' health issues, reproductive rights, and bodily autonomy.
Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Viva.
Cardio Workouts That Burn Fat Fast: From Running to Cycling
Cardio workouts are an essential component of any fitness routine, particularly for individuals looking to burn fat and improve their overall health. From running to cycling, there are numerous options available to help you achieve your fitness goals. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective cardio workouts that can help you burn fat fast. 1.Running •Running is a popular cardio workout that has been proven to be highly effective in burning fat. Whether you prefer jogging on a treadmill or running outdoors, this high-intensity workout can help you torch calories and shed unwanted pounds. According to the American Council on Exercise, running at a pace of 5 miles per hour can burn approximately 606 calories per hour for a 160-pound individual. •Running engages multiple muscle groups and can help improve cardiovascular endurance, making it a great option for those looking to lose weight and improve their overall fitness levels. Additionally, running can be easily customized to fit your fitness level and preferences, whether you prefer short sprints or long-distance runs. 2.Cycling •Cycling is another excellent cardio workout that can help you burn fat fast. Whether you opt for indoor cycling classes or hit the open road on a bike, this low-impact exercise is gentle on the joints and can provide a challenging workout for individuals of all fitness levels. According to Harvard Health Publishing, cycling at a moderate pace of 12-13.9 miles per hour can burn approximately 298 calories per half-hour for a 155-pound individual. •Cycling engages the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, while also targeting the core and upper body muscles for a comprehensive workout. Additionally, cycling can help improve your cardiovascular health, increase your endurance, and boost your mood through the release of endorphins. 3.Interval Training •Interval training is a highly effective cardio workout that alternates between high-intensity bursts of exercise and brief periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. This form of training has been shown to be particularly effective in burning fat and improving overall fitness levels. According to a study published in the Journal of Obesity, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can help individuals burn more calories and lose more body fat compared to traditional steady-state cardio workouts. •Interval training can be easily customized to fit your fitness level and preferences, whether you prefer bodyweight exercises, sprinting, or cycling. By incorporating intervals into your workout routine, you can boost your metabolism, increase your calorie burn, and maximize your fat-burning potential. 4.Swimming •Swimming is a low-impact cardio workout that can help you burn fat fast while also providing a full-body workout. Whether you prefer swimming laps in a pool or hitting the open water for a swim, this aerobic exercise can help improve cardiovascular health, increase muscle tone, and burn calories. According to Swim England, swimming at a moderate pace can burn approximately 367 calories per half-hour for a 155-pound individual. •Swimming engages the muscles of the arms, shoulders, back, core, and legs, making it a highly effective total-body workout. Additionally, swimming is gentle on the joints and can be a great option for individuals with joint pain or other physical limitations. •Incorporating Cardio Workouts Into Your Fitness Routine •In order to maximize the fat-burning potential of cardio workouts, it is important to incorporate a variety of exercises into your fitness routine. By mixing up your workouts and challenging your body in different ways, you can prevent plateauing and continue to see progress towards your fitness goals. Additionally, it is important to combine cardio workouts with strength training and a healthy diet in order to achieve optimal results. •When starting a new cardio workout routine, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. It is also important to listen to your body and rest when needed in order to prevent overtraining and injury. By staying consistent with your workouts and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can achieve your fat-loss goals and improve your overall health and well-being. •In conclusion, cardio workouts such as running, cycling, interval training, and swimming are highly effective in burning fat fast and improving overall fitness levels. By incorporating a variety of cardio exercises into your fitness routine, you can challenge your body, boost your metabolism, and achieve your fat-loss goals. Remember to start slowly, listen to your body, and stay consistent with your workouts in order to maximize your results.
By Amily Brown about 21 hours ago in Viva
Yoga for Flexibility and Stress Relief: Poses and Practices for Everyday Life
In today's fast-paced world, many of us are constantly juggling various responsibilities and dealing with the stress that comes with it. Finding ways to manage stress and maintain flexibility in both body and mind is crucial for overall well-being. One practice that has gained popularity for its ability to address these issues is yoga. •Yoga is not just a physical exercise, but a holistic practice that combines movement with breath and mindfulness. It can help improve flexibility, strength, and balance, while also reducing stress and promoting relaxation. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that practicing yoga regularly can significantly reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, leading to a more relaxed and calm state of mind. •One of the key benefits of yoga is its ability to improve flexibility. Many of the poses in yoga focus on stretching and lengthening the muscles, which can help increase range of motion and prevent injuries. According to the American Osteopathic Association, yoga can also help improve posture and alignment, which can further enhance flexibility and ease tension in the body. •There are several poses in yoga that are particularly effective for improving flexibility and relieving stress. One such pose is the forward fold, also known as Uttanasana. This pose involves bending forward from the hips with a straight back, which stretches the hamstrings and back muscles. It can help release tension in the lower back and improve flexibility in the spine. •Another beneficial pose for flexibility and stress relief is the child's pose, or Balasana. This gentle resting pose involves sitting back on the heels with arms extended forward and forehead resting on the mat. It helps stretch the hips, thighs, and lower back, while also promoting relaxation and calming the mind. •In addition to individual poses, there are also specific yoga practices that focus on flexibility and stress relief. One such practice is yin yoga, which involves holding passive stretches for longer periods of time to target the connective tissues in the body. This can help improve flexibility and circulation, as well as promote relaxation and release tension. •Another practice that is widely recognized for its stress-relieving benefits is restorative yoga. This gentle form of yoga involves using props such as blankets and bolsters to support the body in various relaxing poses. It can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's rest and relaxation response. •Incorporating yoga into everyday life can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular yoga practice can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also improving mood and overall well-being. In addition, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that yoga can help improve quality of life and coping strategies for individuals dealing with chronic stress. •Real-world examples of the benefits of yoga for flexibility and stress relief can be seen in various populations. For instance, a study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles found that yoga can be an effective tool for reducing stress and improving flexibility in breast cancer survivors. The participants in the study reported decreased levels of stress and increased feelings of relaxation and well-being after practicing yoga regularly. •Overall, yoga can be a valuable tool for improving flexibility and reducing stress in everyday life. By incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine, you can enhance both physical and mental health, leading to a more balanced and harmonious way of living. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, finding time for yoga can help you cultivate a sense of ease and resilience in the face of life's challenges. So roll out your mat and take a deep breath - your body and mind will thank you for it.Start writing...
By Amily Brown a day ago in Viva
Strength Training for Beginners: How to Build Muscle Safely and Effectively
Strength training is a crucial component of a well-rounded fitness routine, whether you're looking to increase muscle mass, improve your overall strength, or simply enhance your physical performance. However, for beginners, getting started with strength training can be intimidating, especially with the abundance of information available on the internet. •In this article, we will discuss how beginners can safely and effectively build muscle through strength training, providing valuable tips and guidelines to guide you through your fitness journey. •Understanding the Basics of Strength Training •Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves using resistance – such as weights, resistance bands, or body weight – to work your muscles. The primary goal of strength training is to increase muscle strength, size, and endurance by challenging your muscles to adapt and grow stronger over time. •When you engage in strength training, you create small tears in your muscle fibers, which then repair and grow back stronger during the recovery process. This process, known as muscle hypertrophy, is essential for building muscle mass and improving overall physical performance. •Benefits of Strength Training for Beginners •There are numerous benefits of strength training for beginners, including: 1. Increased muscle mass: Strength training helps you build muscle mass, which can enhance your overall physique and improve your metabolism. 2. Improved strength and endurance: Building muscle strength can increase your overall physical strength and endurance, making everyday tasks easier to perform. 3. Enhanced bone health: Strength training can help improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. 4. Better body composition: Strength training can help you achieve a leaner and more toned body by increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat. 5. Increased metabolism: Building muscle can help boost your metabolism, allowing you to burn more calories at rest. How to Get Started with Strength Training If you're new to strength training, the following tips can help you get started safely and effectively: 1. Consult with a fitness professional: Before starting any new fitness program, it's essential to consult with a fitness professional to assess your current fitness level and create a personalized training plan. 2. Start with the basics: Begin with compound exercises that target multiple muscle groups, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These exercises are highly effective for building overall strength and muscle mass. 3. Focus on form: Proper form is crucial in strength training to prevent injuries and maximize results. Take the time to learn the correct technique for each exercise and start with lighter weights to master the form before increasing the load. 4. Gradually increase intensity: As you progress in your strength training program, gradually increase the intensity by adding more weight, increasing the number of sets and repetitions, or incorporating more challenging exercises. 5. Include rest days: Rest and recovery are essential for muscle growth and injury prevention. Make sure to give your muscles an adequate amount of rest between training sessions to allow for proper recovery. 6. Stay consistent: Consistency is key in strength training. Aim to train at least 2-3 times per week to see significant improvements in muscle strength and size. •Real-World Examples of Strength Training Success •There are countless real-world examples of individuals who have achieved impressive results through strength training. One notable example is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a former professional wrestler turned actor, who is known for his impressive physique and strength. Johnson attributes his muscular physique to his rigorous strength training routine, which includes a combination of compound exercises, high-intensity workouts, and strict dietary guidelines. •Another example is CrossFit athlete Tia-Clair Toomey, who has dominated the sport of CrossFit and won multiple CrossFit Games championships. Toomey's success can be attributed to her dedication to strength training, which has helped her build strength, endurance, and mental toughness to excel in the sport. •Expert Opinion on Strength Training for Beginners •According to Dr. Brad Schoenfeld, an expert in strength training and muscle hypertrophy, beginners can benefit from a structured and progressive strength training program to maximize muscle growth and strength gains. Dr. Schoenfeld recommends starting with a full-body workout routine that targets all major muscle groups and gradually increasing the intensity and volume over time to stimulate muscle growth. •In conclusion, strength training is a valuable component of a comprehensive fitness program for beginners looking to build muscle, improve strength, and enhance physical performance. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, beginners can safely and effectively embark on their strength training journey and achieve their fitness goals. Remember to consult with a fitness professional, focus on proper form, gradually increase intensity, include rest days, stay consistent, and draw inspiration from real-world examples of strength training success. With dedication and perseverance, you can achieve remarkable results through strength training and transform your body and health for the better.
By Amily Brown 2 days ago in Viva
Feminism Has Lost Her Identity
Ladies and Gentlemen....welcome to my unpopular opinion.... again. I remember learning about the women's rights movement in school. I remember not understanding how the world had come to the conclusion that women were not equal to men, and why women had to fight for the right to work in the first place.
By Hope Martin3 days ago in Viva
Day 22 of My 40 Day Fast: Sexual Orientation Begins in the Womb
Twenty one days was the longest fast I’d done. Now that I’ve entered day 22, I have ventured into uncharted territory. It will be interesting to see what happens with my body from here. I’m waiting for the sour taste on my tongue to clear out. I glide my toothbrush gently over my tongue throughout the day to get rid of it. I read that when it goes away it’s an indication that autophagy has completed. You can read why I’m fasting by clicking on the story below.
By Neelam Sharma5 days ago in Viva
Hottest Bods of Summer '24
We're powering through the summer as July is coming to a close. The world is getting ready for the Olympic Games, but until then let's check out four more ladies who have thrilled sports fans in their respective locations. Here's yet another salute to body positivity and athletic excellence.
By Winners Only6 days ago in Viva
Day 21 of My 40 Day Fast: Women Can Remove Disease From the Bloodline
I was diagnosed with a Ulcerative Proctitis in 2016. I am not a doctor and was clueless about health and how the body worked. I found my gastroenterologist of little help, and was forced to do my own research. I quickly learned I was faced with losing part or all of my colon.
By Neelam Sharma6 days ago in Viva
# Cow Grazing Industry in Switzerland: Key Sector in Agriculture
### Cow Grazing Industry in Switzerland: Key Sector in Agriculture In Switzerland, the cattle grazing industry is one of the principal sectors in agriculture, playing a vital role in the local economy and providing significant employment opportunities. Known for its technological advancements and innovative practices, the Swiss cattle farming sector maintains high product quality standards while prioritizing environmental sustainability. Here’s an overview of the current labor market situation and opportunities within this sector:
By Hameed Ahmed8 days ago in Viva
Creators We’re Loving
The creative faces behind your favorite stories.
Gael MacLean
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Clyde E. Dawkins
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Sam The Doula (Blooming Miracle)
46 published stories
S. A. Crawford
170 published stories
Natasha Collazo
120 published stories
Rachel Robbins
93 published stories
Rebecca Morton
64 published stories
Kidada Amani
2 published stories
Hope Martin
197 published stories
Lena Folkert
165 published stories
Shelby Larsen
47 published stories
Judey Kalchik
367 published stories