Taylor Swift made history at the 2024 MTV VMAs

Welcome back to What's Popular Now!

Another week, another edition of What's Popular Now! Get ready for a weekly deep dive into the world of pop culture, trending topics, and lifestyle essentials.

TRENDING THIS WEEK

In the Spotlight: Must-Read This Week

Taylor Swift made history at the 2024 MTV VMAs, taking home seven awards, including Video of the Year for Fortnight. With 30 VMA wins, she officially surpassed Beyoncé as the most-awarded artist in VMA history. [Read More]

Staying consistent with your workout routine can be challenging, but it's essential for long-term fitness success. Discover practical tips, from setting realistic goals to finding exercises you love, to help you stay on track and achieve lasting results. [Read More]

Jon Jones will finally face Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in a highly anticipated bout on November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden. This fight could shape the future of the heavyweight division, with retirement rumors and Tom Aspinall waiting for a title shot. [Read More]

POP CULTURE HIGHLIGHTS

Music

• ‘It's ok I'm ok’ by Tate McRae debuts at #16 on Global Spotify with 3.62 million streams. It also debuts at #9 on US Spotify with 1.61 million streams.

• ‘BIRDS OF A FEATHER’ by Billie Eilish has surpassed 1 BILLION streams on Spotify. It becomes her 12th track and fastest track to achieve this. 

Entertainment

• Matt Reeves says he didn’t direct any episodes of ‘THE PENGUIN’ in order to focus on developing ‘THE BATMAN 2’ He says he hopes to direct episodes of a future spin-off series for ‘THE BATMAN’

• ‘SPEAK NO EVIL’ director James Watkins says his remake is all about “the social horror of how we interact with each other.”

LIFESTYLE

5 Simple Morning Habits for a Healthier Day

Your morning routine sets the tone for the rest of your day. By establishing a few key habits, you can improve your mood, boost energy levels, and start the day feeling refreshed. Here are five simple morning habits that can transform your day for the better:

1. Hydrate First Thing in the Morning
After 6–8 hours of sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning is essential to kickstart your metabolism and help flush out toxins. Hydration is also linked to improved brain function, so it can help sharpen your focus and boost productivity. You can add a slice of lemon to your water for a refreshing dose of vitamin C!

2. Stretch or Do Light Exercise
Moving your body in the morning, even for just 5–10 minutes, can increase blood flow and energize your muscles. Whether it’s a few stretches, some yoga poses, or a quick walk around the block, this physical activity wakes up your body and helps combat morning stiffness. Plus, gentle movement in the morning can improve flexibility and reduce stress levels, setting a calm yet focused tone for the rest of the day.

3. Eat a Nutritious Breakfast
We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there’s a reason for that. A balanced breakfast provides the fuel your body needs to function efficiently. Aim for a combination of protein (like eggs or Greek yogurt), healthy fats (such as avocado or nuts), and fiber (like whole grains or fruits) to keep you satisfied until lunch. Skipping breakfast or opting for sugary cereals can lead to energy crashes later in the day, so make sure to start with something wholesome.

4. Set Daily Intentions or Goals
Instead of jumping into your to-do list immediately, take a few moments to mentally prepare for the day. Setting daily intentions or goals helps you stay focused on what matters most. Whether it’s completing a specific task, staying positive, or practicing patience, your intention will guide you through the day with purpose. This simple habit also reduces stress by giving you a clear roadmap to follow.

5. Avoid Your Phone for the First 30 Minutes
It’s tempting to reach for your phone as soon as you wake up, but doing so can flood your brain with unnecessary information and distractions. Emails, notifications, and social media can wait. Instead, give yourself at least 30 minutes of screen-free time to fully wake up and focus on yourself. This allows you to start your day with clarity and intention, without being overwhelmed by digital demands.

Why These Habits Matter
Adopting these simple habits doesn’t require a major time commitment or drastic changes to your routine. The key is consistency. By starting your day with hydration, movement, nourishment, intention, and mindfulness, you’ll experience more energy, focus, and a sense of control over your day. Remember, a healthy morning leads to a productive and fulfilling day!