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Thyroid Issues: Warning Signs to Watch Out For

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Thyroid Issues: Warning Signs to Watch Out For

January is Thyroid Awareness Month. This month was created to raise awareness about thyroid diseases and thyroid cancer. So, what is a thyroid? The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that help regulate bodily functions, including heart rate, energy, and body temperature.

According to Dr. Magdala Chery, the cause of thyroid cancer is not always clear. “It’s worth noting that most people with thyroid cancer have no known risk factors that can be changed. A summary of the leading causes and risk factors include genetic mutations, radiation exposure history (like a history of radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest), hereditary conditions,” she states. A family history of thyroid cancer, sex (thyroid cancer occurs three times more often in women than in men), age (most common in people in their 30s through 60s), and excess body weight have been associated with a higher risk of cancer. “Even if a person has risk factors, it’s difficult to know how much those factors contributed to the tumor. There are no specific dietary restrictions or foods to avoid to reduce your risk of thyroid cancer,” she shares.

Initially, thyroid cancer may not cause symptoms at first, but as it grows, it can cause a lump in the neck, a feeling that shirt collars are too tight, changes to your voice, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, constant cough (not due to a cold), and pain in the neck or throat.

Dr. Jade Norris, physician, and founder of NSPIRE Primary Care, LLC, shares the following symptoms of thyroid cancer: palpable thyroid mass in the neck, unintended weight loss or weight gain (weight fluctuations), fatigue, and pain or discomfort with swallowing but most commonly a neck mass or swollen lymph nodes. However, Dr. Norris notes that thyroid cancer can often be asymptomatic, which is why it’s essential to attend yearly checkups with your primary care physician.

Thyroid cancer is classified based on the types of cells found in the tumor. Most thyroid cancers are slow-growing, and some can be aggressive and according to Dr. Chery, the most common types of thyroid cancer include:

  • Papillary thyroid cancer, which is the most common type and can occur at any age, is most often found in people ages 30 to 50. Most cases are minor and respond well to treatment.
  • Follicular thyroid cancer is a rare type that usually affects people older than 50. It doesn’t often spread to the lymph nodes but may spread to other body parts, such as the lungs and bones.
  • Hurthle cell thyroid cancer is a rare type that is aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body. It was once considered a type of follicular cancer but is now recognized as a distinct type of cancer.
  • Medullary thyroid cancer begins in C cells that produce calcitonin. It can be detected early due to elevated calcitonin levels in the blood and may be caused by an inherited gene.
  • Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare and aggressive type that grows quickly and can be challenging to treat.

Treatment Options: 

Dr. Chery says treatment for thyroid cancer typically involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland. If the tumor is small, a portion of the thyroid might be removed. If the cancer is large or has spread, the entire thyroid gland is often removed. After surgery, radioactive iodine may be used to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells. Thyroid hormone replacement medication is usually given to suppress the growth of any remaining thyroid tissue.

Other treatments may include radiation therapy or chemotherapy, especially for more aggressive types of thyroid cancer.

It is essential to have regular check-ups after treatment to watch for a return of cancer. Thyroid cancer can sometimes come back in the lymph nodes, small pieces of thyroid tissue left after surgery, or other parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones. However, most thyroid cancers are treatable, and most people have a good outcome. Currently, there’s no recommended routine screening for thyroid cancer. But if you are aware of a family history of thyroid cancer or conditions, this is something to be discussed with your primary care doctor. They will help determine how to screen and monitor you for any symptoms.

Dr. Norris suggests establishing care with a quality primary care physician who knows you and is easily accessible for regular health and thyroid screening TSH/T4 labs and a thyroid ultrasound if concerns for a thyroid mass are present or consider fine-needle aspiration if a mass is present to confirm if the nodule is cancerous or benign and referral to a Thyroid Specialist and Endocrinologist.

TSH/T4 is a part of regular annual blood work ordered by their PCP to the local lab (Ie- LabCorp or Quest); if there is a concern for a thyroid mass on the exam, your primary care physician would order the thyroid ultrasound to the local imaging center. If you are in Las Vegas, join her at NSPIRE Primary Care for quality Primary care and health screenings.

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Rocko’s Mugshot Goes Viral With His Wig Removed Following Arrest In Atlanta

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Rocko’s Mugshot Goes Viral With His Wig Removed Following Arrest In Atlanta


Rocko, the Atlanta-based rapper best known for his hit “U.O.E.N.O.,” is back in the headlines after a recent arrest sparked widespread attention, largely due to his viral mugshot with his wig removed. The rapper, whose real name is Rodney Ramone Hill Jr., was arrested on December 9 in Georgia under charges of disorderly conduct, misdemeanor willful obstruction of law enforcement, and criminal trespass.

According to Fulton County Inmate Records, Rocko was taken into custody but quickly released on a $1,000 bond. As of now, no further details have been released regarding the circumstances of the arrest or the events leading up to it.

The Georgia Gazette was the first to share Rocko’s mugshot, which quickly made the rounds on social media, drawing significant attention from fans and the public. See below!

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Vacheron Constantin Brings Back Classic ’70s Collector’s Watch In Stainless Steel

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Vacheron Constantin Brings Back Classic ’70s Collector’s Watch In Stainless Steel

A horological wonder.


(Vacheron Constantin)

Trend cycles tend to crop up often in the fashion world, but the same can be said of watches: For all of the timeless nature of true classics, certain eras get their moment in the sun, so to speak. Take the 1970s, arguably the golden era of the sport watch and the decade, from which Vacheron Constantin sparks inspiration for its revamped 222 timepiece.

Already makers of one of the world’s most complicated watches, the haute horologist looked to its 222nd anniversary in 1977 to bring back a luxury sports timepiece classic. The crisply designed 37mm stainless steel homage holds true to form in a contemporary reissue, one priced at $32,000.

(Vacheron Constantin)

The watchmaker notes that the slim, sporty-yet-refined timepiece nods to “an historic 1970s model” and in fitting fashion, “remains true to the qualities that made the original an icon.” The tonneau-shaped case is accented by both a fluted bezel and integrated bracelet for a clean, sleek look, one that Vacheron Constantin calls “a robust, sporty, yet elegant aesthetic that transcends categories.”

A delicate Maltese cross at the 5-o’clock marker, placed on the exterior of the bezel rather than on the dial, nods to intricacy and heritage. Not to be overlooked, elegant, rather jaw-dropping 18-karat gold baton-type hour and minute hands give the watch some impossibly precise flair (perhaps bolstering the price tag in the process, no doubt).

It’s a step down in flash and flair from other Vacheron Constantin timepieces, like its Abbey Road-inspired watch that debuted a handful of years ago. Within however, the hardware is every bit as detailed, as the watchmaker’s own Calibre 2455/2 movement powers the timepiece with a 40-hour power reserve.

(Vacheron Constantin)

Measuring in at just 7.95mm in terms of total thickness, the watch is also a geometric wonder in terms of its hexagonal integrated bracelet links, a sleek touch that gives this slimmed-down watch some seriously dressy appeal. As Vacheron Constantin notes, “purity of line and slimness” are key attributes for this luxurious, subtly stylish timepiece, and another five decades (and beyond) of history assuredly awaits this tribute to a classic.

Mentioned in this article: Audemars Piguet luxury Luxury Watches news Style Vacheron Constantin Watches

Niyi Akinmolayan Seeks to Drive Nollywood’s Progress

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Niyi Akinmolayan Seeks to Drive Nollywood’s Progress

Niyi Akinmolayan believes in Nollywood. The veteran filmmaker has grown to become one of the better-known film directors in Nigeria over the past decades, witha catalog of local box office hits and well-streamed films. However, he firmly believes there’s much more to be done and achieved.

“Nigerian filmmakers are very stubborn; we make films because we like to and not because it’s very profitable,” Akinmolayan says over a Zoom call. It’s one of several matter-of-fact declarations he made during his conversation with

this past Sunday, January 12.

Two days before, the second and concluding part to Akinmolayan’s latest effort, Lisabi: A Legend is Born, the sequel to last year’sLisabi: An Uprising, premiered on Netflix. It wraps up the biopic of the myth of the titular figure, a hero of Egbaland, a prominent Yoruba tribe. The new film’s first half continues the high-octane portrayal of Lisabi leading the charge against undue taxation by the Alaafin of Oyo, while its second half imaginatively portrays the disputed ending of the hero’s Earthly life.

“We made a film of a little over three hours; it’s a biopic, and we had to tell the whole story,” the director says. “We also achieved high production value with the cinematography and other elements, which are things that Netflix and its viewers love to see. Hence, they suggested that we split the film into two parts, so viewers wouldn’t have to watch more than three hours in one sitting.”

Across its two installments, Lisabi is positively defined by several notable elements, including robust dialogue carried by parochial Yoruba dialects, impressive cinematography, colorful wardrobe choices, and Tolu Obanro’s impeccable score. While the collective runtime, especially the second part, lends itself to some indulgence with its pacing, Lisabi is a strong show of what has made Akinmolayan a reliable force in Nollywood: accessible storytelling with an equal measure of flash.

A striking part of the film is the prominent role of women, which isn’t typical of mythical retellings of male heroes. From the central role of Lisabi’s confidant Ikeola (Oyebade Adebimpe Adedimeji) to the coven of witches who take over and help win the war against the Alaafin’s army, Akinmolayan’s involvement of women as active participants in the rebellion is purposeful.

“Women have always been a strong force in Yoruba culture,” he says, referencing Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti andthe Abeokuta women’s rebellion. “Women have led uprisings and, I mean, we’ve had a female Alaafin before, and some people don’t know that. As a filmmaker, you ask yourself important questions, and when you question the norm, you put your interpretation on these myths.”

For its cast, Lisabi is a roll call of who’s who in mainstream Yoruba Nollywood. From Lateef Adedimeji’s spirited portrayal of the titular character and Odunlade Adekola’s turn as the Alaafin to cameos by Femi Adebayo and Jide Kosoko, it’s a star-studded fare. Conspicuously, it features several actors who have played lead roles in similarly-toned Yoruba epic films.

“Ultimately, what you’re looking for is who best represents the character and the role that you’re trying to cast,” Akinmolayan says about featuring repeat faces. Beyond that, however, he adds that the overarching problem is the limited frequency of big-budget productions. The way he explains it, film is a huge risk business with little breakeven and/or profit guarantee, so the few big-budget films feature proven actors who will attract viewers.

“First of all, filmmakers are not the ones who create celebrities; it’s the audience,” he says. “The moment people stop watching someone, nobody will hire that person. If the audience wants to see someone, filmmakers have that responsibility if they want to have commercial success.”

This is very pronounced in Nigerian cinemas, where producers bank on the popularity of actors as a draw for their films. It’s all tied to Nigeria’s ailing economy, which has done little to foster a strong cinema culture, especially in recent years when inflation has made watching films a luxury. Technically, there have beenblockbuster films recently, like Funke Akindele’s last two big screen filmscrossing the billion naira mark, butsome of it is a mirage.

“The problem with Nigeria is that you’re either extremely high or low,there’s barely any in-between,” Akinmolayan says. The lack of an in-between largely dictates that, in mainstream Nollywood, actors are recycled, there isn’t too much variety in the types of films being made, and the complaints on quality continue to rage on. “Until the economy favors filmmakers that can make a profit because they made a good film, that will never change.”

As an alternative, streaming is ideal for filmmakers to experiment with new story ideas and work with less popular actors. Still, streamers want to see data demonstrating viewer engagement and impact. Without a large subscriber base and continued growth, streaming can lead to the same challenges previously stated.

Last year, Prime Video cut its funding in Africa, and Netflix was said to havepulled out investments in Nigeria, a rumor it denied. During our conversation, Akinmolayan casually stated that Netflix had pulled funding. “The coming of Prime Video and Netflix helped us discover new talents. Now, imagine that they didn’t pull out. You’re going to have another year to discover more talent.” The reduction of investment from both streamers isundeniably tied to Nigeria’s economy.

Akinmolayan has worked with both streamers and delivered some of his more creatively ambitious work in collaboration with Prime Video, including the documentary Rainmakers and psychological thrillerThe House of Secrets. “There were few big faces [in Secrets], and it got a lot of excitement and energy from people, but we know very well that if we put it in cinemas, it probably wouldn’t hit 50 million naira,” Akinmolayan says, adding that “the story would still be what it is,” but the economics of filmmaking in Nigeria makes it difficult to pull off such endeavors consistently and constantly.

When I ask how Nollywood can fix its technical problems even with the uncertainty of incoming investments, he still defaults to the economics of being a filmmaker as the primary problem. “Almost everything we’re talking about, they are this way because filmmakers are either in a hurry or they don’t have the money to pay professionals properly,” he declares.

Compared to Hollywood, Akinmolayan says it’s difficult for Nigerian filmmakers to work on a script for years, pay a team to focus solely on a production, spend months shooting, conduct reshoots, work with focus groups, and implement other measures in an extensive process. He adds that many professionals would instead work in more stable environments like advertising or focus on better-paying gigs like music videos.

Even concerning the global success of Nigerian pop music, Akinmolayan explains that the Afrobeats template ofreinterpreting influences can’t simply be replicated. “We can reach a point where our films are locally and internationally successful. It’s not impossible,” he says, adding that having more cinemas in Nigeria and better integration across the continent should be a priority.

“Netflix and Prime Video will not help us find [success] in the international market. It’s not their job,” Akinmolayan says. “They’re software companies; we must prove we can reach those levels. It’s ridiculous that our films are not even doing great in Ghana and other parts of Africa. South Africans are not watching Nigerian films, and Nigerians are not watching South African films. We need to do the leg work of ensuring that there is a wide market wanting to see our films.”

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For Education and discussion purposes. Please note no copyright infringement is intended, was recorded on BlkCosmo’s own equipment, and we do not own nor claim to own any of the original recordings used in this video and intend to use this as ‘fair use’.

LSU Wide Receiver Kyren Lacy Faces Charges For Alleged Involvement In Deadly Car Crash

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LSU Wide Receiver Kyren Lacy Faces Charges For Alleged Involvement In Deadly Car Crash

Louisiana State Police are investigating Kyren Lacy, a former LSU wide receiver for his alleged involvement in a car crash that killed a 78-year-old man.

Details On Kyren Lacy’s Alleged Involvement In Fatal Car Crash

Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Kyren Lacy, according to ESPN. Police are accusing the potential 2025 NFL draft pick of allegedly fleeing the scene without offering help. PEOPLE has identified the victim as 78-year-old Herman Hall, a former Marine from Thibodaux, Louisiana.

State police report that Kyren Lacy drove a 2023 Dodge Charger at high speed on Louisiana Highway on Dec. 17. They claim Lacy “recklessly passed multiple vehicles, crossed the centerline into the northbound lane, and entered a no-passing zone at an unsafe speed.”

Lacy was allegedly passing other vehicles when a northbound pickup truck suddenly braked and swerved to avoid a collision. Per ESPN, a 2017 Kia Cadenza was traveling behind the pickup truck. The driver of the Cadenza swerved left to avoid Lacy in the Dodge Charger, which crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a southbound 2017 Kia Sorento. Herman Hall was the passenger in the Kia Sorento traveling southbound and later died from injuries sustained in the accident. ESPN also reports that the driver of the Cadenza sustained moderate injuries. Furthermore, authorities claim that Lacy drove around the crash and left without stopping or reporting his involvement in the accident.

More Info On Kyren Lacy’s Charges

Kyren Lacy is facing charges of negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless operation of a vehicle, per ESPN. Police have reportedly been in contact with the football player and his attorney, urging him to turn himself in.

However, Lacy’s agent, Rock Arceneaux, said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) that he is “fully cooperating with the authorities.”

“We strongly believe that the facts will ultimately demonstrate the truth, but we respect the need for a full and thorough investigation,” Arceneaux’s wrote in his statement.

Kyren Releases Statement After The Incident

Just two days after the crash, Kyren Lacy declared LSU for the 2025 NFL draft in an official statement on Instagram. Lacy played two seasons at Louisiana before transferring to LSU in 2022, PEOPLE reports. See Lacy’s full statement below.

RELATED: UPDATE: Sergio Brown Pleads Not Guilty In Connection To The Murder Of His Murder

What Do You Think Cosmopolitans?

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Living Your Best Love Life: Is Hypnotherapy the Answer to Solving Your Dating Woes (Does this even work?)

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Living Your Best Love Life: Is Hypnotherapy the Answer to Solving Your Dating Woes (Does this even work?)

Once considered taboo, therapy, thankfully, has become more common for people trying to improve their quality of life–and the quality of their romantic relationships. In the latter case, it’s helpful to talk to someone about what you’re looking for in a partner, why you think previous relationships haven’t worked, and how the past impacts your present. But in addition to talk therapy, some are also incorporating hypnotherapy to find out what’s been holding them back and figure out how they want to move forward in the search for love.

Hypnosis is a method that puts someone in a trance or dream-like state, a relaxed condition, and it has been practiced for thousands of years. You may be familiar with seeing hypnosis as a form of “mind control.” On the contrary, hypnosis is a healing tool that helps people with anxiety, phobias, and everything in between. So when we think about dating or “finding the one,” why not explore another way to heal from past breakups and evolve from limited thinking that gets us nowhere?

If anyone knows the benefits of hypnosis first-hand, it’s Laurnie Wilson. She is a certified hypnotherapist and found her calling in the practice after experiencing a breakup of her own. By applying hypnosis, Wilson attests that her personal dating experience is now more aligned than ever. Hypnotherapy has transformed the way she approaches dating, the way she views herself, and her outlook on finding love.

“I used to pick the most emotionally unavailable people on the planet. I used to be in this bad cycle of constantly thinking that I wasn’t pretty enough or worthy enough. Now I’m like, ‘I don’t know whose thought that was. I don’t know why I was walking around saying that.’ But we’re done,” Wilson shares. “I feel so much more confident, clear, and really in my own agency around how I pursue relationships or how I don’t. I feel that having that clarity is satisfying because everyone deserves to have what they want in life. I feel so much happier as a person overall.”

We spoke with Wilson to learn more about hypnotherapy, the benefits of the approach, and how to level up your dating life by figuring out what lies beneath.

Black Cosmopolitan: What is the difference between hypnotherapy versus traditional talk therapy?

Laurnie Wilson: Talk therapy is taking place at a different brainwave level than hypnotherapy. Hypnosis takes place at the theta brainwave level, which is right above the delta, and the delta is where you’re asleep. When you’re in theta, you’re very relaxed and still awake. So your conscious mind isn’t driving the conversation, it’s your subconscious that you’re working with. Versus in talk therapy, you’re really in your conscious mind when you’re having a conversation. You’re engaging in the ways that you normally would.

Hypnotherapy allows you to put that upper-level mind chatter to the side and sink into what’s going on beneath the surface. It also allows you to rewire neural pathways in your brain or old stories that are programmed in your mind. So sometimes what people struggle with when it comes to talk therapy is that they feel as though they have talked about the issue to death. So with hypnotherapy, it’s a great addition. If you’re talking about the problem to better understand the origins in regular therapy and hypnotherapy, we work through understanding the origins of the problems. That way we can resolve those issues directly and then let you move in the direction that you want.

Talk me through the phases of a hypnotic session. 

As a hypnotherapist, I’m looking to understand how you’re feeling now and how you want to feel in the future. So once we’ve talked about that on a conscious level, then I’m going to say, go ahead and relax.

Then I’ll guide the client through progressive relaxation. So relaxing from the top of your head to your feet feels very much like if you’ve done a meditation. Then, I count you down even deeper into the hypnosis so that we go into that theta brainwave state. Then I’m going to start asking, okay, what do you see or feel or what’s coming up for you? I’m creating a journey, and the client is telling me what’s coming up for them. Some clients experience this very visually, for some clients it’s more of a sensation, like the body might feel hot or cool. For other clients, it’s not that you’re seeing something, but you just kind of know something. So we’re tapping into all the different senses to activate the subconscious. So in that time, we’re going to ask questions like, what’s been holding you back? Why has it been holding you back? And what do you want to transform that into? Whatever it is that’s coming up for you, we’d call it change work.

At the end, we start saying, okay, well, what does this look like in your life in the future? Imagine yourself now going about your day, feeling this way, doing this. Like, how do you carry yourself? What do you wear? Again, we’re activating the senses to cement this in because that will stick into your subconscious. We do something called future pacing, which is imagining what’s going to happen in the future. So if you are visualizing yourself going out and having a successful relationship or getting the job that you wanted, or whatever it is, you are telling your mind it’s going to happen. That’s creating those new neural pathways because when we visualize, we start telling our minds that it’s possible.

With the rise of manifestation practices, does hypnotherapy provide similar results since we are essentially visualizing our future?

I think hypnotherapy supercharges any manifestation practice. Since a lot of the manifestations of writing down an affirmation or visualizing are happening on a conscious level, hypnotherapy can touch on what is not getting covered, which is the subconscious. The subconscious is about 90% of the mind, and the conscious is the remaining 10%. So tapping into the subconscious is going to let you achieve those manifestations faster and easier. It can be a lot more fun, I think, too, because it’s a lot more embodied.

of using hypnosis?

Well, at the very top level, you’ll feel so much more relaxed, and you’ll get to enjoy where you are so much more. I think a lot of our dissatisfaction as people, or as I see with my clients, is not being where they want to go. So, not having the relationship, the job, the money, etc. Hypnosis shortens the timeline to feel better about life because it allows you to break through any limiting beliefs. It allows you to get over any sort of subconscious programming that would have held you back from moving forward. Hypnosis lets you see there’s a lot of beauty in where you are. I would also say, that with hypnosis, you start to realize more about who you are. A lot of people are worried about that. They may think, I’m going to find out this deep, dark, scary thing about myself. But in actuality, when people realize that who they are is wonderful and they just forget, they realize they have been conditioned out of thinking that, and that is life-changing.

Based on your expertise, what is the main blockage you have seen in clients with dating, and how can hypnotherapy combat that?

Everyone wants to find love. But we, as people, have a lot of trauma around romance and relationships, especially for women of color. It can be hard to know what a healthy relationship is. So we have a lot of conditioning around, this is what my partner should or shouldn’t do. A lot of that was based on our caregivers who maybe didn’t know how to teach us about love or from a society that showed us something that doesn’t actually align with us. So, with hypnosis, you’re able to take a look at what your beliefs are around your worthiness, what you want in your love life, and how you want to go about dating. So many of our ideas are so entrenched from such a young age, and we just don’t realize it.

With hypnosis, we can peel back all of those layers. We can, you know, heal the daddy or mother issues that come up for a lot of us. So, being able to use hypnosis to get rid of the beliefs that don’t serve us, to heal the different traumas that may have been making us pick the wrong partner or choose certain things that haven’t worked out for us, we get to get rid of all of that and free ourselves to have the kind of relationships and lives that we want.

What is a myth about hypnosis that you try to debunk with your practice?

The thing about hypnosis is that the client is in control the entire time. You are the one guiding the session. I describe myself as the bumper rails of it, so to speak. As the client, you are the one who’s saying what’s coming up and what it is that you want to be shifting. I can offer my suggestions or advice, but ultimately, anything that comes up that you take on is what you want to be taking on. It’s more about listening inside as opposed to assuming that someone else is going to tell you what you should or shouldn’t have.

What is something someone should keep in mind about hypnosis or hypnotherapy for dating purposes that a lot of people are not aware of?

I would say be really clear about what you want. Also, be clear about the stories that you keep telling yourself and get curious about why that is. So, if we’re talking about dating, a lot of women will say, “Oh, there’s no good men left.” I would ask, “Then how are you going to find a good one?” If you keep telling yourself that there are no good ones left, then that’s what you believe. You’ll always find what you believe. So, focus on what you want instead. Because if you know what you want, that’s really half the battle.

What is the success rate that you have seen in your practice when it comes to hypnotherapy for people looking for love?

The people who come to me always get what they want and what they need. Now, it might look different than what they thought, but they always do get what they came for. I’ll give you an example. I had a client who wanted to stop dating emotionally unavailable men. She was very uncertain that this was going to work for her. Throughout our process and our six sessions, she had weeks where she didn’t feel any change. But, you know, we trust the process and we go with it. I would say about eight or nine months after we finished working together, she messaged me and thanked me because since we finished, she has not dated a single emotionally unavailable man. She did not realize that this was going to have such a profound and lasting change on her. She did take a little break from dating afterward. But now she’s had so many successful experiences in dating and is so much more grounded in the people that she chooses.

Sometimes, the timeline isn’t what you think. It’s not like, okay, I’m going to heal these dating things and bada bing, bada boom, tomorrow I will find my soulmate. It’s about trusting the process because it can look different for everyone. I get so many people telling me many months after we finished speaking or working together, how they’re still benefiting from the work that we did and still seeing that change. So the work is really long-lasting. And I think as long as you trust that and let yourself be open to the timeline of it, then you’re going to be happy.

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Hair Extensions: Types, Cost, and More, According to Experts

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Hair Extensions: Types, Cost, and More, According to Experts

Whether you have thin hair that you’re looking to bulk up, short hair that you want to lengthen, or are just in the mood to switch up your hairstyle without the commitment of a more permanent change, hair extensions are a great choice.

The topic of hair extensions is vast and complex. There are a variety of different types of hair extensions — like hand-tied extensions, microlinks hair extensions, tape-in extensions, clip-in hair extensions, and halo hair extensions, to name just a few — and each kind has its own list of perks and drawbacks. Aside from the cost of hair extensions, you’ll also want to know how to properly care for your hair extensions and how long they’ll last before committing.

If you’re considering trying hair extensions for thin hair for the first time, we’re sharing everything you need to know so you can find the best hair extensions for your needs with the help of four experts below. They help us break down the cost of hair extensions as well as all of the different types. Keep scrolling to learn more.

Types of Hair Extensions

“There are many different hair types and application methods available, so you can experiment until you find the perfect look for you at a price point that suits your budget,” Louise Bailey, founder of Hair Extensions London, says. Before we get into the different application types, let’s go over the two main categories of hair extensions: real human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions.

“Human hair extensions are exactly what they sound like — they are made out of real, human hair from top to bottom, collected from a donor,” says Julia Venturin, a hair-extension expert at Luxy Hair. “Remy hair means all the cuticles (the outer layer of the hair) are intact, running in the same direction at the time of collection. This allows for almost no tangling and ensures that the extensions remain smooth and silky throughout their lifetime.”

Synthetic hair extensions, on the other hand, are made out of various synthetic, blended fibers — no human hair. “These fibers are usually very fine, plastic fibers that are manufactured to imitate real human hair,” Venturin says.

Here, we’re breaking down a few of the most common types of extensions.

Clip-In Hair Extensions

Clip-ins are perhaps the easiest, least time-consuming way of adding length, thickness, and volume to your hair, and one of the best things about them is that you don’t even have to see a professional to have them installed.

“The good, quality clip-ins will look and feel natural, they will last years, there is no commitment, and you can fit and style them yourself,” says Tatiana Karelina, owner of Russian hair-extensions company Tatiana Karelina.

These types of extensions clip to your hair, and they come in handy when you want to change up your hair for a particular event or occurrence and don’t want to commit to something more permanent. (You typically take them out after a day but can continue to reuse them for long after that.) Nowadays, clip-ins come in all kinds of lengths, textures, and colors, and you can usually buy them in packs. For an editor-approved option, read our full review of Bellami hair extensions; the brand has plenty of weft hair extension options.

Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape-ins are considered semipermanent extensions; they’re similar to clip-ins except that they can last longer and are taped to your hair. They’re also pretty weightless, so you don’t feel weighed down even if you’re wearing a head full of them.

“Tape-ins are applied by a professional and can last for two months before needing maintenance,” says Bailey. “The hair is reusable with this method.”

Microlink Hair Extensions

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Microlinks — also called microrings or microbeads — are a popular alternative option to sew-in weaves and tape-in extensions. These are normally attached to strands of hair using small tubes or rings, and they are said to be safer than other kinds of extensions because they don’t damage the hair and scalp by putting too much weight or stress on them. They also don’t require the use of glue or adhesive, making them a lot less noticeable in your hair.

One downside, depending on how you look at it, is that getting a full head of microlink hair extensions can take anywhere from one to five hours to complete, but they can last up to two to three months.

Sew-In Weaves

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Installing a weave is a process that requires a bit more labor. They’re usually installed by a hairstylist who braids the hair down into a specific pattern — either what’s known as a beehive or straight-back cornrows — before sewing bundles or “tracks” down to the braids. This can usually take anywhere from two to six hours, depending on how many bundles you’re installing (two or three is a good amount) and how speedy your stylist is.

Weaves can last anywhere from six to 10 weeks, though it’s important for people who wear them to also make sure they’re still regularly taking care of their hair that’s beneath the weave.

Keratin Bond/Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions

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Keratin extensions are also known as k-tip extensions. Bonds are fused to the hair using keratin and a heat gun. This process can take a few hours to complete since, like microlinks, each extension is connected to your natural hair individually until the desired look has been achieved. These aren’t permanent, but they do last up to four or five months, depending on personal maintenance.

UV Hair Extensions

LED or UV hair extensions are touted as the most seamless extension technique to date. To get the look, single strands of hair will be bonded onto your natural pieces of hair, using a special glue that will then be cured with a UV light to keep everything in place. How long the process takes depends on how large the area that you’re working with is, and the results last for about six weeks. The cost is usually about $250 per session and approximately $1200 for your entire head.

Halo Hair Extensions

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add length to your hair, you might want to consider Halo hair extensions. The extensions use a thin wire to secure the hair around the crown of your head, and your natural hair goes over it. They’re easy to put on and take out, which makes them perfect if you want to add a little extra length and thickness for a special event. There are a few different brands that make this type of hair extension, like Zala Hair Extensions and Luxy. Read our full Luxy Halo Hair Extensions review.

Do Hair Extensions Damage Your Natural Hair?

Sadly, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about hair extensions, including that they will damage your natural hair. In fact, this notion is mostly false. Bailey explains that when applied by a professional and cared for properly, damage is not likely. “If you’re considering getting hair extensions, it’s important to do your research and consult with a hair-extensions expert to ensure that they’re right for you and the correct hair type and product is used,” she says.

How to Care For Hair Extensions

Hair extensions require special care. The better you care for them, the more use you’ll get out of them. The No. 1 rule of handling hair extensions is to be gentle. “Brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush, and avoid using harsh chemicals or too much heat,” says Bailey. Venturin adds: “The more you wash and heat style your extensions, the shorter their lifespan will be, so try to keep the washing and product use to a minimum.”

Nonsynthetic extensions can and should be washed just like the hair on your head. This helps prevent product, dirt, and oil buildup on the hair. “Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, keeping conditioners away from the attachment points,” Bailey says. However, just as you don’t want to overwash your own hair, try to avoid washing your extensions too much. “Unlike your own hair, which receives natural hydration from the oils on your scalp, hair extensions don’t have a natural hydration source,” says Venturin. “Therefore, keeping them hydrated is key to keeping them shiny and in good condition.”

Cost of Hair Extensions

If you’re wondering, how much do hair extensions cost? That’s a hard question to answer due to the many different types of hair extensions available on the market — hair extension prices are based on the hair you choose, as well as who installs it. “High-quality, hand-tied hair extensions will look more natural and last longer than synthetic extensions but require a higher cost to purchase and install,” says Brynn Reed, the lead extension specialist at Mirror Mirror Salon.

Quality extensions made from human hair, such as clip-ins, typically range from $100 to $350, while more “permanent,” long-wearing extensions that are professionally installed can cost $350 to upward of $2,000. Synthetic hair extensions, on the other hand, are far cheaper.

Things to Keep in Mind When Getting Hair Extensions

There are many benefits to extensions, but you should consider your current hair routine to determine if they’re right for you. “Extensions are not a wash-and-go style,” says Reed. “They must be blow-dried. Leaving extensions wet for prolonged periods causes the wefts to break down and shortens the lifespan of your extensions. If you commit to extensions, you commit to the blow-out.”

Additionally, the haircut you have matters. Extensions are able to add volume and length to your existing style, but in order for the final result to look seamless, you’ll want to avoid any blunt-style haircuts. “This makes the job so much harder to blend,” says Bailey.

20 Photos of LL Cool J and Simone Smith’s Relationship Over the Years

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20 Photos of LL Cool J and Simone Smith’s Relationship Over the Years

Actor LL Cool J and date Simone Johnson arrive at the 1988 American Music Awards party. This photo appears on page 58-59 in Frank Trapper’s RED CARPET book. (Photo by Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images)

Solid as a rock. That’s one of many ways to describe the union of rapper LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, and his wife, Simone Smith. The couple, who married on Aug. 7, 1995, have four children, and have come a long way since they met in 1987, early in a career that has spanned 40 years in hip-hop. When they celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary back in 2018, they did so in the presence of other long-lasting couples, including Magic Johnson and wife Cookie, who were hosting them on their annual summer yacht trip through Europe.

“LORD you have been better than GOOD!!” Simone wrote at the time. “Today my husband @llcoolj and I, my soulmate and the man I loved since I was 17 years old celebrated 24 years of marriage in Italy on a yacht surrounded by other couples that have decades of marriage amongst them.”

Smith added, “Thank you God for the first 24. Please continue to Bless us and let our love be an example to our children and grandchildren. AMEN”

The couple have been an example to their family of course, but also to all of us. They have been through a lot, including the highs of watching his career explode in the late ’80s and ’90s and all that comes with that, along with the lows of Simone being diagnosed with chondrosarcoma, a rare bone cancer, in 2004, which she went on to beat.

It’s rare to see relationships like the Smiths in today’s culture, as many couples throw in the towel without a second thought. But the pair, who go back to their teen years, have made it work. They support one another’s career moves, including Simone’s popular eponymous jewelry line. They also support one another in the day to day. The rap icon, actor, and businessman says that’s a part of true romance, and when you prioritize it, longevity as a couple is the end result.

“The romantic aspects of the marriage need to take place during the day,” he said to OK! in 2013. “Too many men make the mistake of wanting to get romantic at the last second. It takes all day, and it’s an ongoing thing. It’s about support.”

The pair are still going strong, still enjoying being each other’s red carpet date, and being one our favorite hip-hop pairs.

“My handsome Fly Guy/Hip Hop G.O.A.T husband and I have been doing this married life with God first, our children, our grandchildren, family, friends and of course HIP HOP,” Simone said when they celebrated their 28th anniversary in 2023. “How can you be married to @llcoolj and Hip Hop not be a huge part of your marriage and your life? You can’t. In the 80’s we were Chillin’, in the 90’s we were Loungin’, in the 2000’s we’re still Lovin’ each other better.”

And we love to see it. Check out photos of their long-lasting bond from the ’80s to the present.

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How to Be Happy: Simple Steps to Rediscover Joy in Everyday Life

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How to Be Happy: Simple Steps to Rediscover Joy in Everyday Life

Let’s face it. Happiness feels so out of reach. We see snapshots of perfect lives on social media, face nonstop demands at work, and get lost in a sea of information that only seems to remind us of what we’re missing. It’s exhausting, and it’s easy to feel like we’re falling short. But deep down, we all want the same thing—to feel happy, to feel like we’re enough. That’s a longing we can all relate to.

This guide isn’t about quick fixes or fleeting mood boosts. Instead, it’s about creating meaningful habits, embracing small changes, and cultivating the resilience to face life’s ups and downs. Let’s dive into how you can build a life that feels more joyful, one intentional step at a time.

Managing Stress and Anxiety: Reclaiming Control of Your Time and Energy

Stress and anxiety often creep into our lives through unmanageable schedules and overwhelming expectations. They can make even joyful moments feel like burdens. But these feelings aren’t just emotions—they’re often signals that something about how we manage our time and energy needs to change.

Think about how much time gets eaten away by “time killers” like endlessly scrolling social media, procrastinating on tasks, or getting caught in unnecessary meetings. Instead of these draining habits, try introducing time-blocking. Dedicate specific portions of your day to focused work and meaningful activities, and set boundaries for distractions. For example, block out one hour in the morning for deep work—no emails or notifications—and reserve your afternoons for more collaborative tasks or lighter activities.

To address deeper stressors, take a moment to reflect on what drains you the most. Is it your work schedule? Household chores? Lack of downtime? Start small by identifying one “time killer” or energy drain you can cut or reduce. Redirect that time toward something that adds value to your life—like a walk, a call with a friend, or working on a personal project. It’s about making conscious choices that help you feel more in control.

Stress isn’t something to eliminate entirely; some of it can even be motivating. The key is to manage it so it doesn’t dominate your day. Remember, small steps can lead to significant shifts in how you feel and function.

Rediscovering Joy Through Meaningful Activities and Flow

When was the last time you lost yourself in an activity, feeling so absorbed that hours flew by? These moments of “flow” are more than just enjoyable; they’re essential for our happiness. Yet, in the rush of daily responsibilities, many of us neglect activities that bring us joy.

Reconnecting with these activities can feel like reconnecting with a part of yourself. Perhaps you used to love painting, playing an instrument, gardening, or solving puzzles. Start by setting aside just 10 minutes to reengage with one of these hobbies. It might feel rusty or unfamiliar at first, but that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s rediscovering the joy of doing something purely for yourself.

To deepen the impact of these moments, focus on how they make you feel rather than what you accomplish. For instance, if you’re gardening, take a moment to notice the textures of the soil and the beauty of the plants. If you’re painting, let go of the final product and enjoy the creative process. Over time, these small efforts can reintroduce a sense of play, curiosity, and relaxation into your daily routine, making them a cornerstone of your happiness.

Building Self-Esteem by Celebrating Small Wins and Shaping Routines

Low self-esteem often feels like a barrier to happiness, coloring how we view ourselves and the world around us. But self-esteem doesn’t require a complete personality overhaul—it’s often about shifting how we acknowledge our efforts and achievements.

Start by recognizing the small wins that happen every day. Did you handle a difficult conversation at work? Make a healthy meal instead of ordering takeout? Push yourself to exercise even when you didn’t feel like it? Write these moments down in a “win journal,” or simply take a moment to mentally congratulate yourself. Over time, these acknowledgments can reinforce a more positive self-image.

Another way to build self-esteem is by designing routines that support you emotionally. For example, if you often start your day scrolling through social media, replace that with a practice that sets a more positive tone, like writing three things you’re grateful for or stretching for a few minutes. Small shifts in your environment and habits can have a profound effect on how you feel about yourself.

To amplify the impact, pair these routines with affirmations. It might feel awkward at first, but saying things like, “I’m capable of handling today’s challenges” or “I’m proud of how far I’ve come” can help rewire negative self-talk into more constructive and uplifting thoughts.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Combine Physical and Mental Energy Strategies

We’ve all experienced that mid-afternoon slump when we reach for caffeine or sugar to push through. While these quick fixes might provide a temporary boost, they often leave us feeling more drained later. Instead of asking, “How can I fit more into my day?” shift your focus to, “How can I increase my energy levels?”

Start with sleep. Consistent, quality rest is one of the most underrated factors in maintaining physical and mental well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours a night, and create a bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down—like turning off screens an hour before bed or reading something calming.

Next, think about your nutrition. A diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides steady energy throughout the day. Pair this with regular hydration and short movement breaks—even a five-minute stretch or walk can recharge your body and mind.

Exercise is another cornerstone of energy management. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a favorite sport, physical activity releases endorphins that naturally boost your mood and focus. The key is to choose activities you enjoy so they feel like a reward rather than a chore.

When you take care of your physical health, you’re better equipped to enjoy life’s moments, tackle challenges, and sustain long-term happiness. Combine these habits with mindfulness practices like deep breathing to maintain a balanced energy level throughout the day.

Strengthening Relationships: Deepen Connections and Create Community

Humans are wired for connection. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a friend or a simple check-in with a loved one, relationships are a cornerstone of happiness. Yet, they’re often the first thing we neglect when life gets busy.

Deepening connections doesn’t have to mean grand gestures. Start with small but consistent actions. Send a thoughtful text, invite a friend for coffee, or set aside time to catch up with family. When you’re with someone, practice being fully present. Put your phone away, listen actively, and show genuine interest in what they’re sharing.

Over time, these consistent efforts can create stronger, more meaningful bonds. And don’t underestimate the power of small social interactions either—a kind word to a coworker, a friendly chat with your neighbor, or a quick thank-you note can boost your sense of connection to the world around you.

Consider also creating opportunities for group interactions, like joining a local club or volunteering for a cause you care about. Building community fosters a sense of belonging, which is vital for emotional well-being and resilience.

Practicing Gratitude and Acts of Kindness: Small Changes, Big Shifts

Gratitude is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to shift your mindset toward positivity. It’s not about ignoring challenges or pretending everything is perfect, but about recognizing and appreciating the good that already exists in your life.

Each day, take a moment to reflect on three things you’re grateful for. They can be as small as a delicious meal or as significant as a supportive friend. Writing them down in a journal can deepen this practice and give you something to look back on during tougher times.

Similarly, acts of kindness—even small ones—can have a profound impact. Compliment a coworker, hold the door open for a stranger, or volunteer for a cause you care about. These gestures not only brighten someone else’s day but also reinforce your own sense of purpose and connection.

For an added challenge, try practicing gratitude and kindness in difficult moments. For example, if someone cuts you off in traffic, instead of reacting with frustration, acknowledge that they might be having a tough day. Shifting your perspective can create moments of unexpected calm and joy.

Conclusion: Start Small and Stay Consistent

Happiness isn’t a destination you arrive at. It’s something you build, moment by moment, choice by choice. Some days it will feel effortless, and other days it will require patience and persistence. That’s okay—progress isn’t always linear.

Pick one idea from this guide to start with. Maybe it’s a two-minute mindfulness practice, writing down three things you’re grateful for, or taking a short walk in nature. Over time, these small actions will create a ripple effect, helping you build a life that feels more joyful and meaningful.

Remember, every step you take matters. Trust in your ability to create positive change, one choice at a time.

Drake Withdraws UMG and Spotify Legal Petition Over Kendrick Diss

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Drake Withdraws UMG and Spotify Legal Petition Over Kendrick Diss

The Toronto rapper previously filed pre-action petitions naming UMG and Spotify.

Drake is withdrawing his much-discussed legal action against UMG and Spotify. Or at least, he has formally made moves to do so with regards to one such petition, as reported by Billboard early Wednesday.

As detailed in court docs filed in Manhattan on Tuesday, per the outlet, reps for the Toronto rapper’s Frozen Moments, LLC said it had met with UMG and Spotify prior to making the withdrawal in question official.

Spotify reportedly did not object to the withdrawal, while UMG reserved its position on the matter. As for the second pre-action petition against UMG and iHeartMedia filed in Texas, its status had not changed as of this writing. A hearing on that matter is expected later this month.

In a previous filing, Spotify denied Drake’s allegations of artificially boosting the streaming numbers for Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” which included lyrics aimed at the For All the Dogs artist amid their extensive back-and-forth.

“Spotify has no economic incentive for users to stream ‘Not Like Us’ over any of Drake’s tracks. Only one of Spotify for Artists’ tools, Marquee, was purchased on behalf of the song, for €500 to promote the track in France. Marquee is a visual ad that is disclosed to users as a Sponsored Recommendation,” the company said, according to Variety.

UMG also issued a statement in which the company denied the accusations against it. “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear,” a rep said.

Drake’s Frozen Moments LLC had accused UMG and Spotify of using bots and payola to inflate the popularity of Lamar’s Grammy-nominated diss track, “Not Like Us.” The claim carried a heavy accusation that UMG violated the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, which had been denied by the company.

Drake has not publicly commented on this latest development, nor is he expected to do so. In December, his legal team shared a statement with Complex in which they responded to Spotify’s own motion, saying it was “not surprising” that the streamer was “trying to distance themselves” from the allegations.

“If Spotify and UMG have nothing to hide then they should be perfectly fine complying with this basic discovery request,” reps said at the time.

Complex has reached out to Drake’s legal team for comment, as well as to reps for Spotify and UMG. This story may be updated.

As Shawn Setaro explained in a Complex piece last November, neither of Drake’s legal actions amounted to actual, full-blown lawsuits, despite repeated claims on social media falsely suggesting otherwise. Instead, both instances are examples of what are referred to as “pre-action” petitions. Put another way, these are filings which typically precede a lawsuit, though it’s not required for any party to move forward in that direction, as evidenced by the eventual withdrawal in the UMG and Spotify one.

More recently, Drake has continued to offer updates from the studio as fans await news on his and PND’s previously announced joint album. The project is expected soon, and at one point was described as being near completion as of late last year.

Kendrick, meanwhile, is slated to perform at next month’s Super Bowl in New Orleans, a headlining gig that came with its own controversy upon an initial announcement last September.

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