Naptural Roots
e n i z a Mag
Unifying the hair, mind, body, and spirit - Naturally
Winter 2005/2006 Issue • Interview With Miss Whidbey Island USA • Coping With Post-Holiday Depression • Debunking the Myths about Natural Hair • Chemical Rehab for your hair • 1st Annual Natural Hair Show Wrap-Up
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• Who Loves You Baby? Tips for Self-Love and more . . .
Model: Lester Leysath Photographer: Manuel Stanton Clothing: Wheeler and Wheeler
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CONTENTSCONTENTSCONTENTS Staff Listing Publisher
Hair & Beauty Debunking the Natural Hair Myths ............ 10 Chemical Rehab ......................................... 14
Health & Wellness
LeAnne Dolce publisher@akilitech.com
Editor Karen Entrantt editor@NapturalRootsMagazine.com
Coping with Post-Holiday Depression ......... 9 Who Loves You Baby: Tips for Self-Love . 17
Lifestyle 1st Annual Natural Hair Show Wrap-Up ..... 8 WA’s Naptural Beauty - Tiana Townsell .... 19
Make-Up Artists Stacy Pitts staceyjaye@tmail.com Jennifer Billingsley 206-329-4887
Photographers
Staples Oh My Word! ............................................... 4 From the Desk of the Editress ..................... 6 Naptural Fun .............................................. 18 Book/Product Reviews .............................. 20 Distributors/Ads ......................................... 22
Enrique Rivera hrcinfo@aol.com Manuel Stanton mstantonphotos@msn.com
Authors Karen Entrantt entrantt121@yahoo.com Akili akili@NapturalRootsMagazine.com Calvin Rivers crivers211@earthlink.net
Advertising and Distribution Shelton Wright sales@NapturalRootsMagazine.com
ISSN: 1556-6714. Contents Copyrighted January 2006. Reproduction or use in any part without prior written permission of Akili Technologies Publishing, LLC is strictly prohibited. Naptural Roots. Winter 2005/2006. Volume 1, Issue 1 Published 4 times a year by Akili Technologies Publishing, LLC. Postage paid in Seattle, WA. Postmaster please send address changes to Akili Technologies Publishing, LLC P.O. Box 68926 Seattle, WA 98168. All manuscripts, drawings, or photos sent to Naptural Roots/Akili Technologies Publishing, LLC, or any of its designees will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to the magazine’s right to edit or comment editorially. All monetary payments must be submitted in U.S. Dollars. Winter 2005/2006
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Oh My Word! Welcome to Naptural Roots
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ood hair. Bad hair. Kinky. Wavy. Straight. Processed. Natural.... Naptural.
Welcome to the premier issue of Naptural Roots Magazine, The Pacific Northwest’s first magazine dedicated to the entire naptural person. We endeavor to unify the hair, mind, body, and spirit of the naptural community. In this issue, we roll out the welcome mat to all. Whether you are already natural, just thinking about it, or returning to it, we will have something for you. We honor your transition by supporting you wherever YOU are in the process. Having been natural for over 7 years, I, realized early that the resources for professionals in the natural community were limited and in some instances nonexistent. I also realized that the natural community wanted and deserved a lifestyle magazine where their concerns, issues (regarding hair, health, and wellness), and stories were brought to the forefront rather than relegated to a few pages in the traditional hair and lifestyle magazines. These realizations and my desire to give voice to the growing natural community were the driving forces behind the creation of Naptural Roots Magazine. If you’ve been searching for a community where you can find support, encouragement, and resources which strengthen your commitment to a naptural existence welcome home! LeAnne Dolce publisher@napturalrootsmagazine.com
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Skin Care If you already use a multivitamin daily, take the natural next step in multivitamin care with NouriFusion© MultiVitamin Skin Care made from antioxidant vitamins A, C and E.
For more information on how Herbalife can benefit you, contact Angela Roberts Independent Herbalife Distributor 206.683.1309
Naptural Roots Online Be sure to check us out online at www.NapturalRootsMagazine.com for access to additional features not available in the print magazine. ♦ ♦
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Find out where you can pick up your free copy Sign up for home delivery of or online access to Naptural Roots Magazine. Naptural Roots Forums Discussion groups pertaining to natural hair and lifestyle issues. Email list signup - stay informed of events, new web features. Online directory - Free basic listing for your business or create a single webpage for your business for an affordable annual fee. Community Calendar of events - Add your events or find other natural hair and lifestyle events. Members Only Section Exclusive content including web only articles and additional photos/video clips of events. Access the media kit - Learn about the benefits of adver-
Naptural Roots Magazine. tising with
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From The Desk Of The Editress Welcome to our first issue of Naptural Roots, a vision whose time has certainly come! Along with this issue we embrace the Spirit of Unity in the Community. Unity is the intentional joining and support of another for the sole purpose of creating health, wealth and wholeness. These words health, wealth, wholeness convey the message of sacredness, integrity, prosperity, balance, joy. Doesn’t this sound like a good starting point? For a people whose native language, customs, traditions, religion, rituals, food have been largely taken from them, the concept of Unity can seem elusive. When was the last time you experienced Unity? When was the last time you intentionally evoked the principles of unity in another? What would happen if you made a decision to plant a seed of wholeness in every encounter? Every person? Every experience? How would your circle of influence change if you practiced living in Sacredness? Integrity? Prosperity? Health? No rules, no guidelines, no check off list, just you intentionally choosing to live in Unity. Here are a few suggestions to get started:
Begin with “I Honor & Respect Myself Today” One day a week I salute me! I celebrate my strength, my courage, my wisdom, my joy! I focus on my good! I am still here despite the obstacles/challenges I’ve been through! I pat myself on the back!
Have an “Inclusion Day” One day a week I choose to accept instead of reject others. I practice inclusion in my thoughts, words, deeds. On this day I include all who come my way, especially those that think, look, express differently or in opposition of my view. I am the one confidant a person can come to and not find rejection that today.
“Speak Less, Listen More Day” Once a month I will listen without interrupting or passing judgment. I agree to listen, take notes and suspend comment for 3 days.
”Defining My Prosperity” Once a month I make a list of 12 prosperity goals, action steps, target dates: (3) physical goals (3) business/career/school goals (3) relationship goals (3) personal goals. It is not necessary to change your list every month once you are satisfied with it. Instead use this time to evaluate your progress/challenges and the effectiveness of your action steps. Peace & Blessings, K. Entrantt
Juiceworks International Corp. With over 20 years of research behind us, Juiceworks International Corporation creates nutritional products that help the body heal from infectious diseases. Our juices and serums are made from all natural fruits and vegetables with NO PRESERVATIVES. If you are looking for a natural remedy for your health problems, please contact us for a consultation. Nathaniel Davis Jr. 206-723-1220
www.juiceworksintl.org
“Releasing Hurt Feelings Day” One day a week I practice clearing the slate. I list all people, places, agencies, institutions I feel have offended or caused me pain. I choose to let go of all bitterness and resentment. I create a ritual that signifies I have let it go and I stop rehearsing past events in my mind! Whenever the memories come up, I remind myself I’ve already let that go! I also use this day to apologize to those I have offended.
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Recent Accomplishments & Awards
√ 2005 WA State Small Businessman of the Year (awarded by National Republican Congressional Committee) √ 2005 Ronald Reagan Gold Medal Award For Research
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Model: Owuor Arunga Photographer: Manuel Stanton Clothing: Wheeler and Wheeler
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1st Annual Natural Hair Show Photos courtesy of Enrique Rivera Top: Fashion Show Participants Middle: Medium length locs demonstration model Bottom: Styles of Stepping demonstration
Held on November 6, 2005 at the Royal Esquire Club in Seattle, the show was attended by over 50 participants. The show had something for everyone including a fashion show, hair demonstrations, health workshops, a vendor fair, and entertainment from local musicians and poets. The show opened to the jazz stylings of Mercedes Nicole who wowed the crowd with her wonderful, soulful voice. Next taking the floor was Dr. Nathaniel Davis of Juiceworks International Corporation who spoke to the healing properties of his all natural, nutritional juices and serums. According to show participants, the highlight of the hair show was the fashion show. With designs from MAC Fashion House (http://allaboutmac.biz/index.html), Wheeler and Wheeler, and Twine Designs the models were looking fierce and their struts showed it. Jewelry for the show was provided by The Allabaster Box (http://www.alabasterboxdesigns.com). The audience was treated to a wonderful mix of hot fashions, beautiful/handsome models, elegant and original jewelry and the music was on point as well. Getting down to business, Danyale Thomas (of Danyale Lashaun Salon on 22nd and Jackson) provided tips and techniques for maintaining our locs and creating beautiful designs that are easy to do at home. Danyale also answered a multitude of questions from the audience about natural hair care issues as well, proving that she is both knowledgeable and professional. Look for our quarterly hair clinics to continue these dialogues. Poetry from Alicia Morgan, Kyana Cavaiani, and David Bennett helped to set the flow and the attitude of the day - laid back and relaxed. Ending with a stepping lesson from Styles of Stepping, the audience got a chance to get out of their seats and stretch their legs. Participants said they can’t wait for the 2nd Annual Hair Show. ~§~ 8
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Coping With Post-Holiday Depression By Calvin G. Rivers, M.Ed. Psychology Are you suffering from post holiday depression? Millions of us suffer from depression, but are not aware of it? Depression is a familiar term to us all, yet we often deny the existence of this dreadful disease and the impact that it may have in our lives. Particularly during the holidays, we may be in denial of being depressed. Even as you read this article, you may be thinking of the person sitting next to you suffering from depression without giving any consideration to how it may be negatively impacting your post holiday routine. You’re not alone.
How often have you read about television or music personalities who seemed to have everything going for them, but suddenly begin to self-destruct before our very eyes? They engage in self-destructive behaviors such as alcohol abuse or drug addiction and in the most severe of cases, suicide has been the result. Studies have shown that during the holiday season and the months that immediately follow, we run the highest risk of suffering from depression. The suicide rate dramatically increases during this time of the year as well. Depression can strike anyone from any socioeconomic background and at any time or age. I remember sitting in my neighborhood barbershop one day and getting the news that one of the shops favorite patrons had committed suicide. Everyone struggled with coming to terms with how a person who appeared to be so happy all the time could do such a thing. All of us sitting in the shop that day had to come to terms with the reality that the person who committed suicide could have been any one of us. Studies have shown that even infants can show signs Winter 2005/2006
of suffering from depression. It should not come as a surprise that depression can be inherited. Yes, this is one of many conditions in your life that you can truly blame on your parents. It is hard to think of infants as being susceptible to depression because in our adult minds, infants have the least to be depressed about in their young lives.
The Signs of Depression Detecting the signs and/or symptoms of depression can present a challenge because of the hustle and bustle that occurs during the holiday season. Once the holidays are over and we begin our struggle to dig out from under the financial turmoil that is the result of excessive gift buying, we tend to sink into a depressive state without realizing it. The symptoms and behaviors associated with this disease become normalized and included as a part of the daily routine which make their detection that more difficult. The first place to look for the sign of depression is to take an inventory of how your feeling right now. As you read this article, do you feel depressed? This may seem like a simplistic answer for a difficult problem, but often just taking an inventory of what your feeling right now is a good starting place. Now that family and friends have gone, is there a lingering and persistent sadness? This is often the case for parents who may have children who are attending college in another state for the first time. Those of us with family members that are participating in military endeavors overseas may be particularly suscep-
tible to depression. When in doubt, ask your children if they have noticed a change. One of the wonderful things about our children is their innocence. At times, the things that can come out of the mouths of children can be both embarrassing and enlightening. I remember one day my son and I were talking about summer activities because the end of the school year was quickly approaching. I had noticed that he did not have the same enthusiasm during this discussion as previous years. My first inclination was to think that he was being unappreciative of my effort to take time away from the hustle and bustle to schedule and attend summer events with him. Being careful not to allow him to see my disgust, I asked him what was wrong. He very simply replied, “Dad, spending time with you is just not fun anymore�. I recalled that this was around the time I had taken on a new project at work. I realized that he was telling me something very significant about my behavior. More time had to be taken to unwind after work. I did not have the same enthusiasm as before when we were doing things together. I was tired more often. I was depressed. My son in his own way was explaining how my depression was negatively impacting how he experienced our time together. So when in doubt, ask your children. You may be surprised by what they tell you.
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Debunking the Myths about Natural Hair By Karen Entrantt Let’s address the most common myths:
For as long as I can remember, the subject of hair has always been at the forefront of conversations, opinions, and expressions in the black community. Hair seems to have a deeply emotional, spiritual, psychological impact on how we view ourselves. Other than skin color, it is one of the most visible lines of division within the community. Who doesn’t have or know of a “good hair –bad hair” story? Ladies, can you remember the Saturdaystraightening- comb- rituals? The distinct smell of hair burning, melted pomade (Dixie Peach, Bergamot, Pressing Hair Wax.) “Make sure you get “the kitchen” really good!” (For those who are unfamiliar with this term it is an endearing reference to the hair at the back of the neck, which had a tendency to roll up or kink more than the other areas.) Who can forget burn nics on your ears, forehead, and of course the kitchen? All seemingly a necessary price to pay for “straight’ “nice” “presentable” “beautiful” “cute” “pretty”…hair! Then came the introduction of chemicals to “make our hair behave, lay down, be smooth, straight.” Hair seems to have come a long way in our community, since the good ole days. Or has it? How many of these myths have you either said, thought, experienced? Eight years ago I had 2 family members who decided to loc their hair. Their commitment was for 7 years. As an observer, it was interesting to see how people responded to the many processes their hair went through in their 7 year journey. It saddens me to say that 99% of unsolicited negative comments came from Black folks! “Such a pretty face, why would you do that to your hair?” “I know you ain’t going to keep those twigs in your hair!”
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Myth 1: Dreds/Locs are dirty, unsanitary, and smelly. Dreds or Locs are not dirty, unsanitary. They do not stink. Natural hair can have a regular shampoo/conditioning process, like any other hairstyle. The differences are mainly in product choice. Locked hair does have a tendency to “hold” white base shampoos and conditioners in the hair pattern, which can give the hair a distorted look. “Dirty dreds/Stinky dreds” are as a result of the process that Caucasians devised to keep their hair from separating when trying to loc their hair. They use glue and other products to hold their hair together until it “sticks.” They will often refrain from washing their hair to help their hair join together, which gives their hair a semi- locking process. Black hair has a unique curl pattern that it will naturally do when left alone. Dirty hair or stinking hair is not a requirement to loc hair. Myth 2: Natural hair is “embarrassing” compared to other hair textures. The distinct curl pattern of African-American is what our hair will do without product stimulation. There is no comparison to other hair textures and cultures. It is not embarrassing it is unique and beautiful! It is internalized oppression and over-association with Eurocentric views that perpetuate this idea. Myth 3: Kinky hair won’t grow long. Black hair, when healthy is growing all the time. The length is not always readily visible because of the unique curl pattern of our hair and still there are many people with long natural hair. Myth 4: “You can’t get a professional job with nappy hair!” Having natural hair is not an automatic death sentence to a career. At the same time
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you must do your research to find out which companies in your field are more diverse in principles, values, hiring practices. Myth 5: People will think you are weird, promiscuous, into drugs, etc. It is true the judgments/preconceived notions of others abound. The more important question becomes am I willing to give up some aspect of me, that others may be more comfortable? And if so why? Am I a Chronic People Pleaser? Will I continue this pattern? Remember trailblazers are often the majority of 1! Be comfortable in the skin you’re in! Myth 6: People with locs have grass roots politics and are very liberal! Individuals with locs or other forms of natural hair cannot be defined by their hair expression. There is no politically correct box for people who wear natural hair. Some are Republicans. Some are Democrats. Some are Independents. Some don’t vote at all. Some are conservative. Some are liberal. You cannot tell by a glance! Myth 7: Wearing natural hair means you’re more into your culture. Wearing natural hair does not mean any one particular thing. For some it can be a political statement. For others it may just be a fad. And for others still, it may be the end of the “hair wars.” There are as many reasons for wearing natural hair as there are people doing it. No assumptions can be made as each individual must define what it means for themself. Myth 8: Natural hair is only for the young folks! Natural hair has no age, no gender, any political or religious affiliation. It a hair expression option, which caters to the natural curl pattern and texture of AfricanAmerican hair. ~§~
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Model: Monique Roberts Photographer: Manuel Stanton Clothing: MAC Fashion House Accessories: The Allabaster Box
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Model: Dana Norwood Photographer: Akili Publishing
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Chemical Rehab Making the switch from relaxed to natural tresses By Kathryn Tyler
I know you have thought about it. Taunted and drawn to the waves and bends near your scalp called new growth. “ I wonder what it would be like if I…” but you abandon the thought and run back to the salon, or cousin or whoever and get your fix of that smooth, white powder, I mean cream. Don’t get me wrong, I’m no anti-perm Nazi, but I do believe that relaxers are not the only way black women can wear their hair. It might be hard in the beginning to say goodbye to your relaxed hair and hello to your beautiful natural hair, but it’s worth it and you can do, it you can kick the habit! Check into chemical rehab! Some of you have been relaxing your hair all of your adult life and have not seen your natural texture since childhood. Some of you may be relapsers (like I was) and need encouragement. Either way it is understandable one could have questions, concerns and even doubts. The purpose of this article is to provide the mental ammunition necessary to embrace your hair with confidence. I will cover ways to begin, things to expect, tools necessary and resources to provide you with info further down the line. Let’s begin.
Ways To Do It In going natural the first thing you need to do is remove the relaxed hair. It boils down to two options: growing out some natural hair and cutting out the relaxed hair gradually (this is called transitioning) or more dramatically you can chop off all the relaxed
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hair all at once (which is what I ended up doing). With everything there are pros and cons. Let’s explore what they are for transitioning.
Pros -There is no dramatic change in self-image, such as not having hair. -Because it is a gradual change you can get familiar with the natural hair and have time to adjust to the new texture -If you transition long enough, you can begin with a good length of natural hair that will allow more styling options and make the transition with not much notice to bystanders.
Cons -It can be very difficult to handle two different textures on one head; the meeting point of the two textures is a prime spot for breakage. -Since it is difficult to deal with the two textures and the majority of your length is relaxed hair, it will be very tempting to get a touch-up and thus it taking a long time before you are 100% natural. Now let’s look at the pros and cons of chopping it off all at once.
Pros -You are 100% natural instantly -You have very easy hair styling for the first few months -It’s easier to avoid the temptation of getting a relaxer.
Cons -Having really short hair all of sudden may negatively impact your self-image. -There are very few styling options until your hair grows longer.
goes through when first being introduced to their natural hair. Some of these may be negative but most of them are positive. Knowing what to expect can dramatically reduce anxiety and hopefully this information will prevent relapsing into another relaxer.
Obsession One of the first things you may encounter is an obsession with your hair. Magazines, websites, books, friends, anything you can get your hands to learn more will become your best friend. To aid in this obsession I have included resources to explore at the end of the article.
Frustration – and how to avoid it Next is frustration. Some days you will be so happy that you made the decision to go natural, but other days you will wake up and wish you were just parting your wrap instead of combing out an afro. Frustration is more likely to occur for those that are transitioning, simply because of the difficulty of having two textures to deal with. There are things you can do to cope with having two textures and the comb-out process. Never comb your hair when it is dry. Two textures at once is hard enough but combing while dry only increases the stress on the fine border between the relaxed and unrelaxed hair. Use a good oil-based hair lotion or moisturizer. When you comb your hair you want it to be easy with no tugging. Hair lotion makes it easier to comb and helps to reduce tangles. Always comb from the ends up. When combing begin detangling at the ends and gradually work your way up rather than raking the comb from root to end; this prevents unnecessary pulling. And finally,
What To Expect You could say that there are phases that one Naptural Roots Magazine
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Chemical Rehab, cont. Have a routine. In my own personal experience I found I was much calmer in the morning if I had a routine. At night I would wet my hair a little, add my moisturizer and comb out my hair from tip to scalp using my wide toothed comb. I would then braid it in two inverted cornrows and tie it up with a non-cotton scarf. In the morning I would either wear my cornrows or take them down and enjoy my manageable hair! Your routine may be slightly different but the important thing is that you have one that includes moisturizing and detangling. Even if you get frustrated, do not give up. Remember how satisfying it will be to comb thru your lustrous, thick, Rudy Huxtable mane.
Freedom While you may get frustrated sometimes you can also expect to enjoy a great deal of freedom. That is freedom in styling options, washing your hair more often, and with that enjoying more outdoors activities regardless of the weather. With your natural hair there are many elegant styles to experiment with, such as two-strand twists, large French braids, and gorgeous buns displaying your wavy texture in the front. The styles don’t end there. There’s afros, ponytails, flat twists, braid-outs and whatever else you create. Your natural hair can get rained on and you don’t need to be bothered because hair needs moisture and you are not trying to maintain an unnatural texture.
Self-Discovery Lastly one of the most phenomenal things you can expect, if you seek it, is self-discovery. Many times women learn how to care for their own hair without a stylist when going natural. Your confidence in your self will grow because you discover that you can do it. After many years of
someone else caring for your hair it is possible to feel helpless or uninvolved with it, but once you do become involved it is absolutely empowering. You can take care of your own hair and grow it long if that is what you desire. You can make yourself beautiful with your own God-given hair. Even if you go to a stylist, you can further appreciate that it is ultimately you that is control of your hair. A stylist can help with professional services such as coloring or cutting but you can decide when you want to go and if your hair is ready for such a service. The responsibility and power is in your hands.
The Tools If you think you are mentally ready to say goodbye to your relaxed hair and that you can handle the obsession, frustration and self-discovery that goes with going natural than you need to have certain tools to grow and maintain your hair. The items I am listing are equally important, basic tools that should be a part of your hair arsenal. 1. A wide-toothed, wide-spaced comb. This is important because it will remove tangles without too much stress on the hair. I use a shampoo comb for combing and a more normal sized comb for parting. 2. A spray bottle. These are available at beauty supply stores and in the health and beauty aisle in the grocery store. As I’ve said, you never want to comb your hair while it is dry, ever. So fill the bottle with water and spray it in your hair whenever you comb or style. You can even add the contents of a vitamin E capsule or olive oil to make it richer. 3. A spray leave-in conditioner. I used Infusium 23 or Wet n’ Wavy leave-in spray and even Sta-Sof-Fro. The idea with this is similar to that of the spray bottle. You
want to keep your hair moisturized everyday. This is key to keeping your hair manageable, healthy and growing. 4. Hair lotion or cream moisturizer. This is good for you guessed it, moisture. But in addition to that it’s integral in styling such as braiding and making buns and ponytails. Ones I like are all the Profectiv creams and African Royale M.O.M. 5. A supersoft natural bristle brush. Some argue that you shouldn’t brush your hair, but when you are styling, you want a brush. Just make sure the brush is soft enough for your skin. It may seem ineffective at first, but you will get used to it and remember it is for the health of your hair. 6. Shampoo. A shampoo for curly hair is good because it has dimethicone to help reduce frizz. Some people are against dimethicone because they argue that it clogs the hair shaft from receiving moisture. But I like them. Try a few shampoos for curly hair and any moisturizing shampoos and see what you like. My favorites are Crème of Nature Moisturizing Shampoo and Loreal Curl Vive (it may be called something else now.) 7. Deep Conditioner. Conditioner is really important and you’ll want to do it every week. Leave it on for twenty minutes with heat and rinse with cool water. 8. Satin Scarf- a silk scarf will also work. The idea is to avoid cotton scarves. They dry out your hair and it causes breakage because of the friction. Use the scarf to wrap your hair at night or to smooth out a style during the morning while getting ready. There it is. Those are the basic tools you need to successfully manage your natural hair. I’ve covered methods of removing the relaxed hair, what you can expect, and the tools necessary. A metaphor often used is that this is a journey. There will be bumps Continued on page 15
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Chemical Rehab, cont. in the road but there will also be amazing revelations-such as you. Congratulations on your decision to embrace your beautiful natural hair. You did it, you made it through chemical rehab! If you need support along the way, email me or refer to the resources below.
“No Lye!: An African-American Woman’s Guide to Natural Hair Care” By Tulani Kinard
“ The Black Woman’s Guide to Beautiful Hair” By Lisa Akbari ~§~
Resources
About the Author After many attempts in going natural via transitioning, Kathryn finally became 100% chemical free in 2001 when she chopped off her shiny salon hair to less than 1 inch. After many years of research and self-discovery, she shares what she has found.
Websites www.LongHairCareForum.com a discussion board of women with natural and relaxed hair with one common goal: growing long hair. The board is incredibly supportive and those ladies offer an encyclopedia’s worth of tips and information. You need to register with the site to join.
www.Nnappturality.com/ a great resource for naturals. There are styling tips, stories, links to other sites and more.
Books
Coping, cont. Combating Depression What should be done if I am depressed? As I mentioned previously, detecting signs of depression can be so you can enjoy the happiness that you deserve; quite a challenge. Fortunately, combating depression can be a very simple process. Some of the same rules you learned back in grade school apply when fighting depression. Make sure you eat the right foods and maintain a balanced diet. Make sure you get the proper amount of rest. Try to sustain a good exercise regimen. Studies have proven that regular exercise helps the body to produce endorphins that Winter 2005/2006
counteract the effects of depression. After life changing events try to make time for a self-inventory to see if depression has entered your life. Pay close attention to your behavior during and after the major holidays. Make contact with loved ones who may no longer be around now that the holiday season is over. The Internet makes staying in contact with loved ones easier than ever. This is particularly important for those of us who may have family members who are participating in the Armed Forces abroad. Ask those who know you the best and or spend time with you the most if they have seen any subtle changes in your behavior that may be consistent with symptoms of depression. Naptural Roots Magazine
Most importantly, if none of these things work, seek help. African Americans rank among the highest group to be susceptible to depression, yet we are the last to seek help. The help you need may be with a friend, your local religious leader and or a therapist. Get the help you need ~§~
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Model: Crystal Baker Photographer: Manuel Stanton Clothing: MAC Fashion House Accessories: The Allabaster Box
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Who Loves You Baby? Tips For Building Self-Love by Akili
Even though Valentine’s Day is supposed to be the most loving of days, for some it rekindles feelings of inadequacy, self-loathing, and loneliness. Have you asked yourself “Why can’t I find Mr./Mrs. Right?” or even “I will never find Mr./Mrs. Right.” Are you missing out on that “loving feeling” because you have not first learned to love yourself? Here are Naptural Roots tips on building that loving relationship within yourself. Tip #1: You can’t love another until you love yourself. What do you like and value about yourself? Try making a list of the positive aspects of your character, personality, body, etc. Develop daily affirmations and post them in a conspicuous area where you can see them often. Tip #2: Be your own best friend. We often treat our friends better than we treat ourselves. We need to have the same compassion and respect for ourselves as we have for our friends.
Tip #6: Set realistic goals and action plans. Do not make new years resolutions! Every year we set ourselves up for failure and disappointment by making resolutions that are unrealistic and therefore hard to stick to. Also, do not try to tackle all your issues at one time. Start with the small issues and celebrate the small victories and accomplishments along the way. Tip #7: Follow your dreams and aspirations. Is there a talent or skill that you would like to further develop? Answer this question: If money were no object I would _______. Now start working on a plan to reach this goal. Success is closer than you imagine. Tip #8: Now that you have started down the road to self-love, remember that you are worthy and deserving of love. That love must start with yourself. Once you truly love yourself for all your strengths and your flaws, you will see that love returned. Never settle for less!
Tip #3: Take yourself on a date. Spend quality time with yourself doing the things that you enjoy. It may be as simple as reading your favorite mystery novel or taking a bubble bath and enjoying a glass of merlot. Learn how to enjoy your own company.
~§~
Tip #4: Be comfortable in the skin your in. Love your body. Love yourself. No matter your size, shape, or color recognize that you are FABULOUS! Don’t withhold love from yourself because of negative body images. Before someone else can be comfortable with you, you must be comfortable with yourself. Remember, sexy doesn’t have a size. Tip #5: Be willing and open to change and growth. Celebrate your strengths and be honest about your weaknesses. Realize that no one is perfect. Life is a journey of processes and growth to be embraced.
Winter 2005/2006
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Naptural Fun M
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acupuncture afro alternative medicine aromatherapy beauty black body mass index cornrows
curly extensions fitness health locs massage therapy meditation Naptural Roots
prayer pressed proud relaxation spirituality stress free twists yoga
Answers to the puzzle can be viewed online at www.NapturalRootsMagazine.com 18
Naptural Roots Magazine
Winter 2005/2006
WA’s Naptural Beauty Miss Whidbey Island USA: Tiana Townsell
Goals and Aspirations? In the future I see myself as being a successful film actress, having my own cd, starting my own clothing line dedicated to my older brother, starting an educational book/coloring book collection for minority children to teach them about their culture and to perpetuate a greater sense of selflove. I also wants to write fiction novels for adults and open a nonprofit educational center for illiterate adults, disadvantaged children, and disabled children.
Talents and Hobbies?
Drama, I like to dance, sing, take pictures, go places, cheerlead, and do academic activities. I love performing in anyway (whether it be on stage, speaking in a crowd or just hanging out and making my friends laugh), I love to have fun and laugh. Most people who know me call me a perfectionist because I’m so determined in everything I do.
panies that said I was “too short”, “too ethnic”, “wrong look”, “too exotic”, etc. But I never let that negativity stop me from pursuing my dream. It was not until I was 18 that modeling opportunities really opened up for me.
How long have you been performing?
I have had my hair natural since March of 2005. I’ve always loved my natural hair and just got sick of relaxing it all the time. I no longer wanted to give into society’s notion that straight hair was beautiful. Relaxing my hair was way too expensive to maintain and it wasn’t worth it, since there aren’t too many straight hair styles. Further more, relaxing my hair always left my hair, dry and brittle and it continually struggled to grow. I love the enormous hair opportunities that I have in having natural hair. I can put my hair in braids, twists, naturals, make it stick up, make it lay down, I can do whatever I want with my hair and now it’s healthy, shinny, and grows faster than I ever thought it could!
I see myself as a natural born leader and performer. I started cheerleading at the age of 6. It was something about the crowd that enticed me. In middle school I fell in love with dancing. I was into all forms of dancing including hip-hop, cha cha, jazz, ballet, and tap. I started modeling at the age of 13 with Barbizon Modeling Academy. The road to a modeling career was tough. I had to endure a lot of rejection from modeling com-
How long you have been natural and why?
Health and Fitness Routine? Since I’m a college student and a girl-onthe-go, I am very time limited when it comes to exercising. However, I do set aside some time to exercise daily. I stretch, do sit-ups, push-ups, squats, run, and do weight lifting. I also take a martial arts class twice a week. I also eat healthy and make sure to get my essential vitamins by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, chicken, rice, and beans.
Beauty Tips & Techniques? I only wear makeup when I am doing photoshoots or going out for extremely special events or evenings. I found that makeup clogs your pores and makes your skin rough and displeas-
Continued on page 20 Winter 2005/2006
Naptural Roots Magazine
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Book Review by Karen Entrantt ing to healthier choices of food.
GOOD HEALTH FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS BY: Barbara M. Dixon “My goal was to create an effective nutritional and lifestyle self-help program specifically for African Americans. I call it the Sankofa Program. To put this program together meant looking at the past in order to draw from it all the benefits of our heritage, as well as the challenges. It also meant looking at the present, to take account all of our problems living in the United States today. …to consider all the major health elements that cut across our lives: old traditions, modern eating habits, black stress, salt sensitivity, culture beliefs”. This is a practical, user-friendly book written by an African American nutritionist, who spent most of her life eating traditional southern meals and being overweight. Although it is not a “diet” book, she includes her own personal struggles with convert-
What I found most unique about the book was, it chronicled the diet of Africans preslavery, during slavery, post slavery and how food assimilation happened with the slaves and their future generations. It was both historical and informational. The food plan is easy to understand and integrate. From die-hard-traditional-soul-food-eater to the organic vegetarian, there is something for everyone. K. Entrantt is a local Mental Health Professional, who has practiced in both the east and west coasts for over 25 years. She is also an Organizational Facilitator, who specializes in Diversity Trainings, Women Services, Collaboration Techniques. Her first book, I found my voice: I got something to say will be out Spring ’06. She may be reached for workshop trainings at 206-853-3264. ~§~
Naptural Beauty, cont. ing. I use face care products to clean and restore my face, rather than make up to hide my face. Edgar Morris Face products work great and Queen Helene lotions keep my face smooth and soft.
Products you use (hair, body, & beauty)? I try to use only the products that are for natural hair on my hair in order for my hair to look it’s best. I keep my hair moisturized daily and wash it once a week. I got my wonderful list of natural hair products from a book that I use as a hair dairy/reference material called, “Beautiful Black Hair” by Shamboosie. He is won20
Naptural Roots Magazine
derful! I use mostly Edgar Morris and Queene Helene Products on my skin, but every once in a while I venture out to new products.
Natural hairstyling and health tips/Hair Care Techniques? Be gentle with your hair!!! If you have thick, course hair like I do, make sure you set PLENTY of time aside before attempting to do anything with your hair. Since I operate on a busy schedule I make sure that i have a few hours available on a day (preferably a weekend) and i wash and do my hair. I always comb from bottom to top (end Continued on page 21 Winter 2005/2006
Naptural Beauty, cont. each other.
What you do to maintain a positive mental attitude when things are not going well? When things are not going well I pray that God will give me strength and help me through it. He alone gives me the answers and helps me to maintain my positive mental attitude and state of being. to scalp) and make sure I have a large tooth comb, a spray bottle and part my hair into many sections. Don’t every try to rush and comb through your hair all at once. I usually wear my hair in two-strand-twists and twist as i untangle. I start with the back, untangle a little section and twist it. Twists are less time consuming than braids (to take down or put up) and they last a long time. They are the perfect style for the busy woman. Also, to remain healthy, I make sure that I take time out for myself and relax. I take about 5 minutes every morning to just relax with a hot towel on my face as well as take one day a week to pamper myself (doing my nails and such).
Who Do You Admire? I admire my parents. My mother is a wonderful and strong black woman. She has taught me so much and always instilled me with correct virtues, self-love, and pride in who I am. My father is also a very strong individual, they both have raised me to embrace God, my culture, to value education, and to have extreme love for myself and others. I look up to all black people out there who are still surviving and I am so proud of them all. From those of us who have followed our dreams and are inventors, scholars, actors/actresses, & professionals, to those who are surviving our daily struggles on the streets. Every day I gain hope when I look around and see that our culture is still standing strong and surviving, if we are breathing we are winning and we should feel proud of ourselves and
Winter 2005/2006
Pageants & Awards? • Miss Island County USA 2003 Winner • Miss Washington Spirit USA 2004 - Winner • Miss Whidbey Island USA 2005 - Winner • Miss Washington USA 2006 Contestant • Miss USA 2006 – Contestant • Miss Ebony Washington USA Contestant
attle Super Sonics dance squad. I will be graduating from Western Washington University in the fall of 2006 with a B.A. Marketing and a Theatre minor. I plan to go on to do advertising work for an AfricanAmerican magazine as well as keep pursuing my dream of being a famous actress.
Contact Information I can be contacted tianatamara@yahoo.com
at
~§~
The Entrepreneur? Applying the business knowledge from my major, this past year I started Tiana Tamara Enterprises. I felt that this sole proprietorship would be a great way to better represent myself as a model by helping to increase the quantity of work and maximize my revenue. At the present time I am using Tiana Tamara Enterprises as an outlet for my modeling ambitions but I plan to turn this sole proprietorship into a corporation in the future and use it as the foundation for all of my other business ventures.
Your Future Plans? I plan to do the Miss Washington USA Pageant one more time in the near future, and I hope to win Miss Ebony Washington USA. This summer I plan to try out for the Seahawks cheerleading squad and the Se-
Naptural Roots Magazine
21
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