MAY 2014
THE BIG SPRING CLEAN, GET RID OF THE OLD, BRING IN THE NEW
www.consciousvibes.co.uk
HOW DOES YOUR DIET AFFECT YOUR HAIR GROWTH
HISTORIC NATURAL HAIR & LIFESTYLE
EXCITES LONDON
EXCLUSIVE!
LUPUS
UNDERSTANDING
& Support
Get Beautiful Skin with NATURAL PRODUCTS
Celebrities with Stunning TWA’s
LOCS CAREER AND NATURAL LIFESTYLE FOR THE SAVVY INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN
Handmade, Natural, Skincare fragrance with essential oils Free from artificial colours & parabens No animal testing
CONTENTS NATURAL HAIR SALONS 7
Le Naturel Styling
10
Nattie Dreadz
NATURAL HAIR & LIFESTYLE EXPO
REGULARS
Page 55
12 Writers Corner
14 African Fashion
24 Unique Fashion
ENTREPRENEURS PROFILES
32 Natural Vibes 38 Locs Creations
46 Kadifa Jones
42 Locs Around Town
48 The Calabash Hub 44 Neno Natural Tips
COMMUNITY VIBES
50 Healthy Eating Recipe
74 The Enfield Lupus Group
52 Celebrities Rock
BUSINESS & CAREER TALK
76 Woolly Roots Foundation 78 Sisters Health Forum 79 Rastafari Healer, Ras Daniel Babu
28 Carol Stewart Talks Career Aspirations 30 Sonia Brown MBE Talks Business DE Clutter
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Front cover photo supplied by Hair Lounge Photography Model: Anya Loctician: Carol Hazel-Clarke
FROM THE EDITOR...
G
reetings and welcome to the spring issue of Conscious Vibes magazine, the theme for this edition is all about bringing in the new and getting rid of the old; this is so fitting for me, as I am starting this new financial year solely as a liberated business woman after leaving mainstream employment. WOW! The first week into the this financial year began with a big glorious bang, Conscious Vibes, hosted a Natural hair & Lifestyle Expo, in west London on the 6th April 2014. Excerpts of this special day are highlighted in this publication for you to savor. In addition, if you want to capture more of the expo, visit our website and view a video of the day. In this issue you’re spoilt for choice with information on a range of natural products to use on your body and hair. I am learning that Shea Butter is the skin’s best friend as well as the importance of diet and how it impacts on our hair and nails.
Our resident career and business writers offer us three de-cluttering tips to sustain your business and the importance of having a clear vision to reach your goals. Conscious Vibes is now entering its second year of publication, we would love to hear from you; what would you like more from us and what do you enjoy about the magazine? Feedback is always useful and gives you a say in shaping future publications. Please bear in mind when writing to us, that Conscious Vibes mission is to:
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Change the images of mainstream beauty, by promoting natural beauty,
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To build on community vibes by creating dynamic offline experiences through events, meet-ups, consultations and speaking engagements.
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To empower readers of all ages and cultures to be their true authentic selves through education and celebration of natural hair and lifestyle.
To create a global network built upon an understanding of shared values and exploration of cultural differences.
We look forward to hearing from you. Sit back relax and enjoy this edition
Angela Small
Founder and Editor at Large
ConsciousVibesM Conscious-Vibes May 2014
www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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CONTRIBUTOR
Shares Her View On The Spring Theme Big Spring Clean, get rid of the old and bring in the new … a heading which can cover various areas in life. It is that time of year when you spring clean your house from top to bottom! Cleaning out cupboards, getting rid of the old to bring in the new, wiping everything down to make it shine, and reorganising.
But how much time do you spend reorganising yourself, changing things for the better, changing your old ways to welcome new and exciting ways of living?… probably not enough! If you need a reason to make these changes then what better reason than it’s “spring time”, the sun is shining and you feel that you can achieve anything you put your mind to and as they say, a change is as good as a rest. So get up stand up and make that change - old for new, make your life shine once again, throw away those old habits which are not doing you any good and bring in something new, something to put that spring back in your step and make you smile once again. Stay blessed all. Della Thompson Editor in Chief
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NATURAL
UK
HAIR SALON
Le Naturel Styling
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atural hair has always been my passion, while working as a regular stylist in 2006 I completed a course in Braiding & Natural hair styling.
I gain experience working for Jay at the Locs for Life salon based in Tottenham. Since then I have developed my own range of hair and body oils. I teach hair & beauty for Newham Adult Education and I will be teaching on the natural hair and loctician courses at Hair Lounge Studio in April (see contact details).
“ I am available for personal consultation, diagnostic evaluation of hair targeted for individuals. “ Le Naturel Styling
I offer styling for those with locs, natural hair and others who are making the transition from chemical process hair to natural. Loc extensions, colouring, interlocking, I offer styling for those with locs, natural hair and others who are making the transition from chemically processed hair to naturallable. Please contact Carol on 07984954431
Contact: Carol Hazel-Clarke Hair Lounge 441 Porters Avenue, Dagenham RM9 4ND Tel: 07956316036 May 2014
www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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NATURAL HAIR SALON - UK
1940’s Hairstyle
Photo: Hair Lounge Photography Make up Artist: Hannah Pricewell Loctician: Carol J Hazel-Clarke
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NATURAL HAIR SALON - UK
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NATURAL HAIR SALON - UK
NATTIE DREADZ Locs Designs
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attie Dreadz, situated at 63 Anerley road, South London SE19 2AS revitalises hairdressing with an all-natural approach to hairstyling and provides customer specific haircare advice to its clients. Owner and head stylist Natalie Morgan comes fully qualified with NVQ levels 2 and 3 in hairdressing and barbering and as a qualified loctician. Nattie Dreadz utilises the numerous benefits that Moroccan Argon oil has to offer, and provides it as part of a treatment plan, as well as a day-to-day oil to keep those natural locs looking healthy. Though, clients have more than just expert hair care to look forward to; they have a stylist who is able to take desired styles and adapt them to suit their face and hair type specifically. As a stylist Natalie can think on her feet and create styles out of thin air, always handy for those last minute hair appointments.
The service for locs range from: general colouring, colour correction, loc starts, loc extensions, interlocking, re-twists, hot oil treatments, loc repairs and of course styling! What really makes Nattie Dreads stand out from the rest are her 18 years hairdressing experience, and workshops offered to clients! We have all been there, where you see those ladies with perfectly wrapped up locs, and you wonder to yourself how it’s done, head-wrapping workshops provided by Nattie Dreadz arms clients with the know how and the ability to do so. The services do not stop there of course; Nattie Dreadz has a range of novelty items available to purchase to help maintain locs; from do-rags to stylish and unique clips, perfect for adorning the locs.
To arrange a free consultation connect Natalie on 07534433292, or through Facebook: Nattie Dreadz UK or the Nattie Dreadz website: www.nattiedreadz.biz 10
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NATURAL HAIR SALON - UK
Twist & Curls Locs Designs
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WRITERS CORNER
BEAUTIFUL SKIN
With Natural Products
A
s the sun comes out and the spring cleaning begins, you could consider cleaning out your make up bag and rethinking your beauty regime for the summer. Nothing hinders beautiful skin like chemicals. The best way to healthy skin is to combine a healthy lifestyle with a regular routine targeted at any problems areas such as dry patches, oily zones and dull looking skin. Natural Unity has some tips to help you spring clean your beauty regime.
No more Mineral Oil.
Whether as a barrier cream or an emollient, petroleum jelly has been used in skincare for generations. What we haven’t been told is that regular use can create a dependency for our lips and skin, meaning that we have to start applying more often to produce the same effects. Try shea butter instead, or a natural lip balm and see the difference.
added agents to increase shelf life, stop the growth of bacteria and improve the quality of the product. These ingredients can affect the balance of the skin and mimic hormone production, causing break outs or sensitivity. Do some research into the ingredients in your favourite brand, or test out a natural alternative for better results.
Water Water Water
The best thing you can do for you skin is drinking more water, skin and hair need moisture to thrive and grow healthy otherwise you get dryness and breakages. Drinking more water and using a natural body butter after washing can improve the feel of your hair and skin
Cleanse and Tone
Lots of people refuse to use cleansers and toners for their skin and feel that they are unnecessary, however cleansing and toning can remove the build up of dirt in your pores, cleanse your face and help to retain moisture in your skin. Try a Parabens, preservatives and anti-bacterial quality natural cleanser/ toner routine and see the difference in less than a month. agents Many commonly used skincare products have 12
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Natural Unity is a mobile boutique specialising in Handmade Natural Skincare Body and Aromatherapy products. Contact Natural Unity on info@naturalunity.co.uk or via www.facebook.com/naturalunity.
May 2014
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AFRICAN FASHION
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ALICIA MULLINGS
A
licia Mullings is a London based Fashion Designer. Alicia’s aim is ‘To Empower People by them receiving positive imagery into their Psyche through fashion and her Fabric Prints’. She found her talent in Fashion Design and pursued her aspirations back in early 2010 after she was made redundant from her Specialist/ Qualified role as a Sound Operator in Television. A role that she truly enjoyed and took pride in especially being one of the few females in the UK to hold this position, but it seemed that it wasn’t apart of her destiny, Her redundancy from TV enabled her to embrace and nurture her own natural creativity whilst also taking a hold of the reigns and steering her own destiny through owning her own business doing what she loves. The ‘Afro Babyz’ Brand came first as a result of Alicia wanting to buy a gift for her cousin’s new born son but not really liking anything that was available at that time, so therefore deciding to design some garments for the baby herself. And then 3 years later the self Titled ‘Alicia Mullings’ Brand was conceptualised as a response to constant requests from Afro Babyz customers who wanted Alicia designs is adult form for themselves. When Alicia is designing she is always aiming to encourage positive attitudes for not only the wearer but also those who see the wearer. For example one of the current adult collections is actually a multi print of Black Superhero’s when you look at it up close and the other one is a multi print side profile of 4 African Ladies Heads. All Fabrics are Originals designed by Alicia. All designs (From both Brands) are ready to wear items however special sizes can also be made for smaller or larger customers of the average sizes. The prints are positive artistic images that are thought provoking conversation starters.
May 2014
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AFRICAN FASHION
Alicia Says “Conversation is Key. We all need to start/continue to talk about some real things, deeper issues. My Designs are my little contribution to encourage these conversations!” Alicia is showcasing her Adult Collection at Caribbean Fashion Week this June 11th-16th in Jamaica. Watch this Space ALICIAMULLINGSWORLD 16
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ALICIAMULLINGSWORLD www.consciousvibes.co.uk
ALICIAMULLINGSWORLD May 2014
AFRICAN FASHION
Photography: African Fashion Show
WWW.ALICIAMULLINGS.COM
Photography: Glenn Benjamin | Stylist: Kelly Sealey Benjamin
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findConscious more about Alicia at Vibes
www.aliciamullings.com www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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Photography: Junior Smart
Make Up: Samantha Burke
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AFRICAN FASHION
Photography: Junior Smart Make Up: Samantha Burke
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Photography: African Fashion Show21 Conscious Vibes
Photography: Junior Smart
Make Up: Samantha Burke
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Photography: Junior Smart Make Up: Samantha Burke
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D
cs
UNIQUE FASHION
o
n
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Lo
Don't Touch My Locs! Came about through the exasperated cry of its founder. In passing, whether in public or during formal events, the occasional stranger would be deeply intrigued by the look of the designer's mane, and would suddenly touch them without permission. Thus the brand, DTML was born! Our brand seeks to bring you, quality clothing and accessories at affordable prices, for every season of the year. We want you, to enjoy your garment, to have an extra 'pep' in your step, as you ward off others, from touching your beautiful tresses without even having to say a word... ...The statement you carry, says it all! Stay Blessed x
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U N I Q U E F A S H I O N
Photography: Junior Smart Make Up: Samantha Burke May 2014
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UNIQUE FASHION
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Photography: Junior Smart Make Up: Samantha Burke Conscious Vibes www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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cs
D
o
n
’t
Touch My
Lo
Don't Touch My Locs! Came about through the exasperated cry of its founder. In passing, whether in public or during formal events, the occasional stranger would be deeply intrigued by the look of the designer's mane, and would suddenly touch them without permission. Thus the brand, DTML was born! Our brand seeks to bring you, quality clothing and accessories at affordable prices, for every season of the year. We want you, to enjoy your garment, to have an extra 'pep' in your step, as you ward off others, from touching your beautiful tresses without even having to say a word... ...The statement you carry, says it all! Stay Blessed x
Photography: Junior Smart
www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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Make Up: Samantha Burke
May 2014
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CAREER TALK
SPRING INTO ACTION
Pursue Your Career Aspirations
A
s we are in the season of spring, now is a very good time to stop and reflect on what it is you want for your career and start anew to actually pursue it.
do you want to be remembered for? Whose lives do you want to make a difference to? You may find making a visual image of it very empowering, making it feel real.
Spring conjures up images of flowers blooming and the lighter evenings make the days seem longer. We tend to find that at this time of the year we have more energy too. With this reinvigorated energy, why not use it to plan that new start that you keep putting off and actually do something about it. At the beginning of a New Year, many women set goals for their career for the year ahead. But how many are actually on track to achieve their goals by the time we get to spring? During the winter months it is far too easy to get stuck in a rut and keep putting it off. You go to work in the dark and you return home in the dark. Unless you go out at lunchtime, you can go days without feeling the sunlight on your skin. That little nagging voice… If in your heart you know that you really want to make a change, what is stopping you from going for it? Is your mind telling you something different? Is that little nagging voice telling you that you will never achieve it or that you’re not good enough or you don’t have the energy, the money, the know how or the time? We find thousands of reasons why we can’t go after the things that we really want because that little 28
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nagging voice in the back of our minds keeps holding us back. Well, it is time to send that little nagging voice on a non returnable holiday before it lets another year pass you by and you still haven’t achieved what you want to achieve. Our thoughts control our feelings and we think and behave in accordance to the way that we feel. So if that little voice keeps filling your mind with thoughts that are going to hinder you, you need to, pack its bags and send it on an early summer holiday, never to return. Replace it with thoughts that are more helpful to you. Thoughts that will encourage you and make you view your situation in a more realistic way. Do you have a clear vision? Not having a clear vision about what it is that you want for your career makes it more difficult to set goals that are meaningful. Create a vision of where you want your career and your life to be in 10 years time. When creating your vision, think about why you want this. What does it mean for you? How does it align with your values? What will you be doing? What will you be wearing? What www.consciousvibes.co.uk
Break your vision down It is very easy at the beginning of the year to say your going to do x, y and z this year but then the reality is something totally different. Often when setting goals, we do not consider all the practicalities of what we need to do. Once you have a clear vision of what you want to achieve, break it down into tangible steps. Make sure your goals are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound). Regularly evaluate and review your progress. Identify what support you need and where you can get this from and make a plan as to how you will achieve your goals. It is time to dust off the winter blues and spring into action and make 2014 the year that you are proactive in pursuing your career aspirations.
Carol Stewart is a Personal Development, Career and Business Coach and the owner of Abounding Solutions. Further details about Carol and the work that she does can be found at Abounding Solutions. www.aboundingsolutions.com
May 2014
CAREER TALK
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BUSINESS TALK
DE CLUTTER THE MIND
Give Your Business a Much Needed Spring Clean
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e-cluttering is not just for the home but our business as well.
what is junk, of no importance or is worth keeping hold of (but only if it helps to increase innovative thought, action and outcomes) in business.
This has never been so importance now that we have more people operating our enterprises from home. For most entrepreneurs they are bringing personal practices into the business and finding it harder to throw things away as they turn information into prized possessions. There is no doubt about it, cluttering slows us down in numerous ways. Whether it’s lost time trying to find that important document or money because you forgot to post that important proposal or application by the deadline required, because our prized ‘junk’ was buried under a pile of bits and pieces. Therefore, never has the need to de-clutter become more vital. Here are my top 3 sanity saving reasons why any self-respecting entrepreneur will take the time to declutter or fail. 1. Clear Your Mind Simply put, clutter stresses us out whether we like it or not. As the search goes on for the missing file, document, USB stick we become overwrought, exhausted and short tempered with the pressure to find the missing culprit. I say, you might as well bring on the migraine and other associated ailments for company while you are at it. Admit it. The junk you have accumulated over the years is working on your last nerve and is sending your emotions all over the place. Clutter robs us of the ability to tap into our positive energy and creativity as we strive to come up with not only meeting the demands of our existing customers, but coming up with novel and new products, services and solutions to retain and attract more clients (and subsequently grow our company and profits). May 2014
A clear, clean and minimalist working environment means that we can create order and discipline in our working practices so we can focus on what is most important, our business! Take my foolish advice, you can only accelerate your success if you calm, focussed and working form a place of external and internal serenity. 2. Clear Your Working Environment I am not just talking about clearing the top of your desk but the drawers (hiding that pouch full of receipts that need to be put in date order and inkless pens and cartridges that you promised to recycle) and associated cupboards that are hording those piles of brochures, magazines and printed reports that you promised you’d file, scan or read later! You have to agree, it is important to eliminate physical clutter because it blocks your flow and concentration. Be brutal. Banish the unnecessary paraphernalia and watch your personal productivity increase as you stop wasting time searching for lost items. 3. Clear Those Secret Hiding Places Just like the limiting beliefs and emotional baggage we have been carrying around for years; clutter is unhelpful, destructive and completely unnecessary. You have to decide www.consciousvibes.co.uk
Cluttering is a habit and in some cases will lead to mental illness if you don’t get it under control. Just watch “Hoarders” if you think I am lying! If not kept under control your collection of prized clutter can easily turn into an obsessive compulsive disorder which is not only personally dangerous but devastating to your family and friends who have to not only watch, but live with your junk, oops, prized possessions! You have to agree, clutter is not only a waste of time and resources, but it stops you operating at the top of your game. Stop hiding behind being too busy, procrastination or emotional guilt and clear up your disarrayed environment. Just because you work for yourself does not mean you should not incorporate working processes and guidelines to ensure that you not only clear up on a regular basis, but you sustain this change of behaviour for the future. Son don’t delay. De clutter your business practices with a much needed spring clean and believe me, you will become more inspired, empowered and motivated to run your business with greater ease and satisfaction. Sonia Brown MBE is a business communicator; coach; trainer; writer and uber connector. She is a branding strategist and speaker. She contributes to a number of radio shows, magazines and newspapers on women, diversity and enterprise issues. If you feel that you require additional support to move your business forward then sign up at www. soniabrown.co.uk for more information about her success tools and membership packages.
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Photography by Hotshots
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Photography by Hotshots
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NATURAL VIBES Photography by Hotshots
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Photography by Hotshots
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LOCS CREATIONS
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LOCS CREATIONS
Photographer: Hotshots Hair by Baby Doll Salon
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Opening Times:
Monday - Thursday 10-7pm Friday - Saturday 10 - 8pm Sunday closed all day
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658 High Road Tottenham London N17 OA8
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Photographer: Junior Smart
Baby Doll Salon owner, rocks an Afro
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LOCs-in Natural Around Town
nd u o r ed a hair! p p na ral s u t n a bee heir n s ’ ho ing t w e Se , rock n tow 42
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BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE Show off your natural hair in the next issue by sending us a picture to:
info@consciousvibes.co.uk www.conscious-vibes.co.uk facebook.com/ConsciousVibesMagazine twitter.com/consciousvibesM
www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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HOW DOES YOUR DIET AFFECT YOUR HAIR GROWTH?
E Neno Natural
IF YOUR DIET IS DEFICIENT IN ANY MINERALS AND VITAMINS IT’S YOUR HAIR (AND NAILS) THAT WILL SUFFER. HOW DOES THAT WORK?
Connect with Neno Natural
@
NenoNatural LongHealthyHair
WHAT SHOULD YOUR DIET BE RICH IN TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHY HAIR GROWTH?
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CAN YOU JUST TAKE A SUPPLEMENT TO MAKE UP FOR A POOR DIET? Supplements will not make up for an atrocious diet. That said, if you have a healthy diet and decided to take a vitamin supplement to make up for possible deficiencies, e.g. inadequate vitamin D from the sun in winter then a supplement will help. It’s very hard to have dietary deficiencies if you live in a developed country but companies that make vitamins will prey on any insecurity you might have and encourage you to buy them. Keep that in mind. Personally, I do take vitamins sometimes but I don’t take them religiously because I usually forget to.
ANY OTHER NOTES? Yes - if you’re on a diet and shed a lot of weight over a short period of time you may incur increased rates of hair loss. When your weight stabilizes this hair should grow back. Keep this in mind next time you want to take drastic measures to lose weight. If you will be dieting it’s important to choose the most nutritious foods within your calorie allowance to ensure you’re getting the vitamins you need. 100 calories of raw, fresh carrots will do your hair a lot more good than 100 calories of chocolate.
Visit neno natural website at:
www.nenonatural.com
May 2014
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ENTREPRENEUR PROFILE
KADIFA JONES
N
aturally Made For You was born out of a passion for Mango Butter, a thirst for understanding the benefits of essential oils and redundancy.
I started by making products for my natural hair. As I continued to strive for the gorgeous looking hair I saw on so many wonderful ladies on YouTube, I accidentally fell into ‘making your own body butters’. The discovery is endless...I thought Mango butter would look yellow/orange and smell like mangoes! I learned it doesn’t! Who knew?!! I thought this was fascinating and I am constantly improving my knowledge and recipes for the NMFY skincare range. I’ve always enjoyed cooking, so blending with different raw materials, with the music on (so I could practice singing like Jill Scott…yeah right!!) and customising my own blend of skincare is just as enjoyable. I am exceptionally fortunate that I have been blessed with the support and encouragement of a wonderful team of ladies who have contributed wholeheartedly to the NMFY journey – Michelle, Anita, Corinne, Sonia and Maxine are Team NMFY…and not forgetting Little Man of course who drops in with moments of wisdom!! We want you to feel pampered everyday – naturally.
www.naturallymadeforyou.co.uk
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ENTREPRENEUR PROFILE
THE CALABASH HUB
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reetings, my name is Sister E, an entrepreneur, business empress and the proud creator of ‘The Calabash Hub’, which is a sanctuary that fosters the principals of Afro-Centred learning to uplift the community.
I organise a variety of traditional and practical workshops that consist of interactive and creative sessions in the Art of Head Wrapping or making Natural Skin/Hair blends. The workshops are tailored to novices or beginners to learn, endeavour and improve skills in an enjoyable atmosphere. I am also involved in organising events that embraces holistic lifestyles and cultural edutainment that enhances the mind, body and soul.
As a Ghanaian I have been fortunate to organise several group cultural experiences to several regions in Ghana. This has led me to commence the ‘Bag of Cement’ Campaign, to raise funds towards Project Okurase Village building materials. Throughout the year I exhibit at African Markets and events selling Homemade Moisturisers, Shea/ Cocoa Butter, Black Soap, Batik Bags, Adinkra Prints and Wooden Earrings to compliment attire. My ambition in life is to return to the Motherland, sit under a mango tree, wearing my attire, sipping tropical juice with the sea breeze blowing through my ‘fro and giving thanks.
“Reaching Across the Divide, Saring Heritage, Changing Futures” www.thecalabashhub.com
Email: info@thecalabashhub.com
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HEALTHY EATING RECIPE
VEGETARIAN RECIPE Lettuce, Avocado and Mango Salad INGREDIENTS 1 green oak lettuce, torn into small pieces 1 large avocado, diced 1 large mango, diced 2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted 2 tablespoons dried cranberries 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
PREPARATION 1. Combine lettuce, avocado, mango, almonds and cranberries in a bowl. Drain and rinse beans 2. Whisk oil and vinegar together in a jug. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over lettuce mixture. Toss to combine. 3. Serve
Additional Note Can be Served with prawns or poached chicken.
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’ O R F A Y N E E W Y N E E T S T U N N IN G
Gill Sco
tt
Malinda Williams
Vanessa W
Celebrities
illiams
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India Arie
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S
Lupitan Ny ango
Rock a TWA
Willow Smith
Erykah Ba
Eva Marcille do
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O P EX
W E I V E R
HISTORIC NATURAL HAIR
and Lifestyle Expo Excites London
NATURAL HAIR AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2014
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onscious Vibes, magazine for locs, natural lifestyle and career advice, entered the annals of black history on Sunday April 6, 2014, when it staged the first natural hair and natural life-style expo in London in eight years, and brought the curtains down with sterling reviews.
Speaking to the significance of the natural hair and life-style expo, founder of Conscious Vibes, Angela Small, says,
“the expo was an extension of the publications. We brought the salons featured in the publication to the expo, giving the public the opportunity to experience the hair styles profiled in the magazine, the magazine came off the page and into the venue, allowing you to see, eat and participate�.
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NATURAL HAIR AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2014
The event was grac stall along with ot clothes, cards, art and Carib
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ced by an exclusive Caribbean ther exhibitors selling jewelry, ts and crafts reflecting African bbean ethnic themes
These natural lifestyle items were also great crowd pullers as the exhibitors reported solid support.
Photographer: Hotshots May 2014
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The natural lifestyle component of the expo proved a fitting complement to the natural hair style extravaganza.
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The expo offered opportunity for direct interaction between vendors and consumers of natural hair styles and natural lifestyle products was a highpoint of the show. The expo featured five natural hair salon owners who treated customers to a variety of dazzlingly beautiful corn row and locs hair styles with product sampling as bonus.
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NATURAL HAIR AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2014 Photographer: Hotshots
Make Up Artist: Samantha Burke Photographer: Hotshots 62
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Make Up Artist: Samantha Burke
Meanwhile, the hair show held participants in awe as salon owners paraded a range of fascinating and creative locs styles.
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Photographer: Junior Smart
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NATURAL HAIR AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2014
Photographer: Junior Smart
The exhibitors also delighted the crowd with a breathtaking fashion show.
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The organizers of the expo pulled out all the stops to ensure exhibitors and consumers enjoyed and benefitted from the expo. They reserved a spot for a vegan stall, ensuring persons had the option of eating healthy throughout the day.
The men and women also had the luxury of free seminars covering healthy eating options, self-esteem and business advancement through entrepreneurship.
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CAPTURED
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MOMENTS
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The musical entertainment provided the perfect back drop for the day, with local DJ’s spinning sing-along reggae and rare groves tunes.
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The Conscious Vibes natural hair and natural lifestyle expo has earned wining reviews, with participants lobbying for a follow-up.
“It was well organized and the workshops all so very informative and inspiring; we’re so glad we attended and cannot wait for the next one,” says one participant. Another exhibitor says, “it was an amazing day and a privilege to have such a forum
to give a talk to attendees .. The feedback from my workshop has been really good..”
Meanwhile, one ecstatic participant puts it quite simply,
“I would just like to congratulate you & the team for an excellent day yesterday.”
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NATURAL HAIR AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2014 Angela Small was the sole sponsor of this Natural Hair & Lifestyle expo. She intends to make it an annual event, in response to popular demand. Angela is imploring entrepreneurs and other advocates of natural hairstyles and natural lifestyles to come on board and help her make next year’s expo an even bigger and better one.
Photographer: King Photographer
And, the writing on the wall suggests that entrepreneurs who partner with Conscious Vibes for the next staging could benefit from a windfall exposure, as the expo is in hot demand. In the meantime, persons anxious to relive or gain the expo experience are being encouraged to visit www.consciousvibes.co.uk
REGISTER NEXT EXPO AT WWW.CONSCIOUSVIBES.CO.UK Conscious Vibes May 2014 YOUR INTEREST FOR THE www.consciousvibes.co.uk
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THE ENFIELD LUPUS GROUP Welcomes You!!
S
pring is finally in the air, so what better way to shake off the winter blues and put a ‘spring-in-your-step’ than by coming along to The Enfield Lupus Support Group’s monthly meetings!
We are a support group for those with the condition of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, also known as ‘Lupus’, but we also offer support for friends and families, carers, supporters and those wishing to learn more about the condition. Lupus can often be a very isolating, lonely and misunderstood condition, but our support group aims to give comfort, support and friendship to those who refuse to give-up on themselves, or give in to this, sometimes, aggressive condition! We are proud to say that we have been supporting individuals and their families for over 10 years and our aim is to continue for at least another 10! Our meetings are held every second Saturday of the month; and they are a great way for everyone to catch-up, share information and above all else, laugh! THE DATES FOR THE NEXT MEETINGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Day Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday
Date 12th April 10th May 14th June 12th July
Venue The Foyer, 279-281 Fore Street, Edmonton, N9 from 1:30-3:30pm
For further information, please feel free to email the group at: thelupusgroup@hotmail.com. Alternatively, you can call Monique on 07940 700 704 or Carlotta on 07939 580 548.
We look forward to seeing you all very soon!
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WOOLLY ROOTS FOUNDATIONS Mobile Natural Hair Business
M
y name is Chava Yasharahla founder of one of London’s first all-natural hair mobile businesses called Woolly Roots Foundations, which is a reliable hair mobile service dedicated to healthy hair advice, styling and maintenance for naturally kinky/curly hair. The name Woolly Roots was inspired by a scripture in the bible that is the description of Christ. Rev 1:14, 15– Telling us that ‘his hair was white, white as wool.’ As I saw this it inspired me to embrace my hairs woolly texture. Growing up, I remember the smell of royal crown grease whilst getting my hair done in a warm family environment my mother taking her time caring for my hair. This motivated me to start this mobile business, where I could render that same treatment to others.
Chava Yasharahla Founder Wooly Roots Foundations
Woolly Root’s mission is to educate people about kinky curly hair as to preserve it, whilst rocking the hottest styles too that’s safe on the scalp. Consultations are given; eyebrowthreading services are rendered also. Styles include twists: braids, extension braids, locs (Interlocking and re-twisting), protective styling, cornrows, crotchet plus more. Woolly Roots values are ‘Boosting ones self-esteem’, ‘Quality over Quantity’, ‘Trust Honesty & Integrity’ and lastly ‘100%Commitment’ from both client and stylist.
Contact info: Chavah Yasharahla on Tel. 07946-164-175 Email bookings: ChavaYahsarahla@gmail.com Message me for consultations and appointments via facebook: www.facebook.com/WoollyRootsFoundations or facebook.com/Chavahyasharahla 76
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RAS DANIEL BABU
Rastafari Healer
P
eople say: “I’m too busy to eat well.” How can they say that when the very food they eat determines how well they can live?” asks Ras Daniel Babu, practitioner of traditional medicine and former reggae producer living in Tokyo. Dreadlocked, wearing his signature colourful tropical shirt, Babu speaks energetically about his involvement with Eastern medicine and roots reggae. Taking to heart the words of Bob Marley: “Open your eyes and look within”, this son of Jah has now made natural healing his life. Babu was born and grew up in the Caribbean community in Brooklyn, New York, a microcosm of the Caribbean with “more Jamaicans than in Kingston, more Trinidadians than Port of Spain, and more Haitians than in Port-auPrince”. Given his background, reggae music, with its message of peace and harmony, played an influential part of Babu’s formative years. Caribbean music, culture and cuisine are central in the 60-plus-year-old’s philosophy. Prior to coming to Japan, Babu worked in New York as a promoter and producer of roots reggae for 15 years. He worked for SBO, Sound of Brazil, the largest world music club in New York, and also for Island Records, the label that put Bob Marley on the world music map. Babu has also worked with such stars as Burning Spear, Augustus Pablo and Ras Michael. In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s Babu helped organise the first US showcase of reggae in Japan, and also helped release Rita Marley’s album to CBS Sony in Japan. It was music that first brought Babu to Japan. He came to Tokyo twentyfive years ago with the intention of staying only a few weeks to scout some Japanese reggae talent. An encounter with Kai Igaku or so-called ‘Comfortable Medicine’, however, changed his plans permanently.
“Studying this method at this clinic is the single thing that has had the most profound effect on my life’s work,” Babu explained. “In a sense it brought everything together…” May 2014
Babu, who had been studying Caribbean herbal medicine and macrobiotics for years went on to study at Dr Ryosuke Uryu’s clinic for three years as an intern, and now works as a practitioner himself, particularly with the large Ghanaian community in Japan. “Comfortable medicine” is based on the premise that the body has the ability to restore itself. Uryu combined several methods of Eastern and traditional medicine to create his own therapy, which includes practices such as evaluating imbalances in the body, sotai, a system of exercise designed to restore health, and a combination of traditional herbal medicines. The clinic has built a reputation in recent years by treating patients for whom conventional Western medicines seemed to offer little help. Babu’s interest in medicine stems back to his own experiences in suffering from unbalanced dietary habits as a young man. He started reading about traditional Native American herbal medicines and Caribbean medicine, and eventually discovered macrobiotics, the health system developed by George Osawa. Macrobiotics emphasises vegetarian diets, whole grains, locally grown vegetables, and discourages eating sugar. “When people hear the word ‘natural’ food or ‘health’ food they tend to think it’s restrictive; but it’s broad and actually opens up a lot of possibilities in other aspects of life”, explained Babu. For Babu a primary interest in dietary systems extended to a wider study of alternative medicines.
Ras Daniel Babu Keynote Speaker
Sisters Health Forum practitioners of Western medicine, tiis technique teaches us how to counter the effects of pollution, stress, and to some extent ageing, as well as strengthening the body’s immune system.
“The human body is full of bacteria and that is normal. When the body is healthy and the immune system is working properly, these bacteria are not only not a threat, but work well for the body. The same bacteria become life-threatening when the body’s toxic level increases and the immune system weakens.” He cites stress, under-nourishment and use of chemicals, including illegal and legal drugs - such as antibiotics, as some of the prime examples of such immuno-suppressants. Malnutrition is one factor contributing to the weakening of the immune system, and many people in developed countries suffer because of their poor dietary habits, says Babu.
“Nothing in the body is isolated”, says
In Japan, for example, despite the traditionally healthy diet, the people have been suffering from the same or more adverse effects of fast-food culture and the negative aspects of the Western diet. Instant foods, in particular, come under attack from Babu.
Babu’s interest in this holistic approach to health, led him into the study of “anti-oxidant nutrition”. Developed by
“These instant foods not only have little nutritional value, but also contain a lot of additives that are harmful to our bodies. Japan has good traditional foods such as natto, which is a great source of protein and contains health bacteria similar to that in yoghurt; seaweed, which has lots of minerals and a cleansing effect, and it’s a shame people are abandoning such a rich dietary culture.” Blending his own culture with Eastern medicine studies
Babu, explaining the Eastern approach to the healing. “Nerves, hormones, immune system, digestive organs - they are all integrated parts of the human mechanism. So every disease and its symptoms are connected with other parts of the body and the mind of man. From a common cold to cancer, it’s the same.”
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