Fresh Vancouver Issue #12 by Fresh Magazine

a nti-aging, bea uty, lifestyle...

VA N C O U V E R

ageless, beauti ful, fresh

Interview with legendary rocker

Bif Naked Spring Clean Your Beauty Routine Brides Through The Ages Complementary Therapy:

Infrared Sauna

Page 36

Fountain

of Youth

Experts Confess:

Their Secret Anti-aging Products Issue 12â&#x20AC;˘April/May 2012 FRESHVANCOUVER.COM

Set your soul on fire &

Get WOWED!

Saturday, May 12, 2012 9:00am - 5:30pm Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Attend FREE with a Reserved Table of 10 Sponsored By

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contents

I SSUE 1 2 A PR I L / M AY 2 0 1 2

Seven Effective Elements of a Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Empowered Leadership By Christine Awram How to become a better leader.

Spring Clean Your Beauty Routine: Old Habits May Be Harmful to Your Skin By Amanda Beisel Avoid skincare ingredients that do more harm than good.

Mini Smile Makeovers: A New World of Smile Possibilities By Dr Kelvin Mah A perfect smile without difficult procedures.

How Would You Feel if Your Dreams Came True? By Heather White Make it happen, step by step.

16 18 20 21 22

Experts Tell: Anti-aging Products That Work The secrets of skincare experts.

Hair Extraordinaire: Show Off 2012

Beauty Buzz 411 By Crystal Jensen

Face of Today Fundraiser A Snowy Success

Riza Santos: Miss World Canada

fresh Vancouver

Publisher Trent Nellis thepub@freshvancouver.com Editor-In-Chief Shelly Lynn Nellis shelly@freshvancouver.com Editor Liberty Craig editor@freshvancouver.com Copy Editor Dan Tidsbury copyeditor@freshvancouver.com Art Director Michelle Beaudry www.beaudrystudio.com

t’s hard to believe it’s been two years since Fresh Vancouver was newly launched! In that time, we’ve learned so much about our industry, our readers, and what we want to represent as a publication. We’ve met incredible people in and around Vancouver, starting with Canadian Bachelorette Jillian Harris as our first celebrity cover, then moving on to such Vancouver icons as former CTV News anchor Pamela Martin, Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts, philanthropists Jacqui Cohen and Leslie Diamond, Vancouver Recital Society founder Leila Getz, actress Gabrielle Miller, television personalities Erin Cebula and Dawn Chubai, and Pacific Newspaper Group’s Patricia Graham. This issue’s cover with music star Bif Naked continues our celebration of Vancouver women: their strength, beauty, intelligence and uniqueness, and the difference they make in our city and the world. We are also excited to have become involved in so many incredible events in Vancouver, like the recent Ovarian Cancer Canada benefit and upcoming events including World Art Expo, which supports the Make and Break Arts Foundation; Miss World Canada 2012, which supports Variety – The Children’s Charity; the Women Of Worth (WOW) event in May; and Indulge: The Art of Beauty, which raises funds for the non-profit youth arts organization Arts Umbrella. As we enter the third year of Fresh Vancouver’s life, our goal is to continue celebrating beauty in all its many manifestations. We want to provide the best information and resources to our readers to help you look your best, feel great, and love your life. The psychology of beauty should never be underestimated: when we feel confident that we look our personal best, that confidence finds its way into every element of our lives. It’s too easy for us as women to put ourselves second, and not find time for yoga class, a facial or a great haircut. Let’s make sure we continue to celebrate ourselves, and more than that, support ourselves, so that we may in turn give back to our loved ones and our communities.

Shelly Lynn Nellis Editor-In-Chief

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

For Advertising Inquiries National Account Manager Erin Jeffery 604 839-1272 erin@freshvancouver.com or 604 591-9991 advertising@freshvancouver.com

Contributors Amanda Beisel, Arne Hassel-Gren, Bob Morgan, Christine Awram, Crystal Jensen, Dr. Frances Jang, Heather White, Julie Brown, Dr. Katie Leah, Dr. Kelvin Mah, Liberty Craig, Dr. Marcia Fleming, Sam Hari, Sophia Waters, Thuy Nguyen, Dr. William McGillivray COVER PHOTO Photo Credit: Karolina Turek

Fresh Vancouver publishes six issues per year. Send all questions, comments and inquiries to: Fresh Vancouver 13256-55 A Avenue Surrey BC V3X 3B3 Tel 1-877-905-7771 Fax 604-591-1989 email info@freshvancouver.com www.freshvancouver.com

Fresh Vancouver assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect those of Fresh Vancouver publishers, editors or staff. Readers are encouraged to consult with their health professional before embarking upon exercise, medical or nutritional changes. Contents of Fresh Vancouver are copyright 2011, all rights reserved. Fresh Vancouver may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher. To subscribe to Fresh Vancouver and receive delivery to your home or office bimonthly, send $29.95 + HST = $33.54 Include your address and we’ll ship you our next issue. Single copies are also available for $5.95 plus HST = $6.25.

contents I SSUE 1 2 A PR I L / M AY 2 0 1 2

Bif Naked Rocks On By Liberty Craig Vancouverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite rocker talks cancer, love and anorexia.

Home Treatments vs. Medi-Spa: When Can You Afford to Do It Yourself? By Sophia Waters Why most medi-spa treatments should be performed by professionals.

Cosmetic Platelet Rich Plasma Facial Rejuvenation By Dr. Katie Leah, ND An all-natural fountain of youth.

Always a Bride: Beautiful Makeup for Brides of All Ages By Julie Brown Expert suggestions for flawless makeup on your big day!

35 36 38

Surprise! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Wedding!

Fountain of Youth

Advantages of Infrared Sauna

By Bob Morgan Infrared sauna may offer a cooler, healthier way to sweat.

40 42

Freshly Launched: Living Free Canada

Ayurvedic Corner: Allergy Season: An Ayurvedic perspective By Sam Hari Ancient wisdom for your seasonal allergies.

Makeup Guide for Your Skin Tone By Thuy Nguyen Find the right colours for your complexion.

The Easiest Way to Achieve Your Aesthetic Goals By Arne Hassel-Gren Breathe easier with financing options that suit your lifestyle.

LOUGHEED LASER CENTRE

appy two-year anniversary to Fresh Vancouver Magazine! What better way to celebrate this milestone than with the fabulous Bif Naked as our cover story. A rocker of punk, pop and ska as well as touching ballads, Bif ’s unique sound and edgy look have made her a globally adored Canadian legend. (If Bif Naked is not yet on your workout playlist, download some of her tunes right away!) Behind the edgy rocker exterior is a thoughtful artist, a spiritual thinker, a breast cancer survivor, a woman going through a divorce. Her reflections on the mechanisms of the universe and the manoeuvrings of fate (or something like it) showcase her optimism; her passion for helping others through the ordeal of cancer treatment reveals her infinite tenderness. Fresh Vancouver is honoured to include Bif Naked, rock star extraordinaire, among our cover stories. As our fair city explodes into spring and Vancouverites awaken from those long grey days of winter, it’s time to think spring cleaning – but not just for those dust bunnies! When was the last time you bought new makeup brushes? For how long have you been using the same old brands of moisturizer and foundation? Is your makeup age-appropriate? When was the last time you consulted a skincare expert to ensure your anti-aging, sun protection, and sun-damage-reversal routines were the right ones for you? You don’t have to go to the medispa once a week and blow the bank on dozens of treatments; a simple consultation is often all it takes to put you on the right track to healthy, youthful skin. Make this the spring of vibrant health and beauty, inside and out!

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Liberty Craig Editor

Dr Marcia Fleming

® of Vivier Canada Inc.

Seven Effective Elements

of a Woman’s Empowered Leadership

By Christine Awram

Enlightened Productivity & Performance

eadership is a diverse topic, with old edgy definitions that include “C” words like control, command and clout. This article explores a woman’s effective influence through empowered leadership, with compelling “C” words like collaboration, connection and community. Implement the following seven elements to help you become a more empowered, more effective leader.

Accountable Health & Wellness

An empowered leader takes 100 percent responsibility for her wellbeing. Radiant and vibrant leaders make their wellbeing a priority, because they know they’re in charge of it. Accountability begins and ends with you, and an empowered leader is at peace with this concept. Some proactive strategies include a balanced lifestyle that incorporates movement, organic whole foods, all-natural skincare, hydration, meditation, rest and optimal nutrition. I personally believe chocolate is a vegetable as it comes from a bean, which falls under the heading of “anything in moderation”! Empowered leaders don’t dilute their energy and focus with a daily onslaught of fast food, chemicals and chaos. They honour themselves, and lead by example.

An empowered leader manages her time by managing her energy. High performers are wildly effective and deeply satisfied, because they’ve shifted their focus from time to energy. Start by noticing what sucks your energy into a black hole. What just triggered it? Was it a critical colleague? A chronically late employee? Your guts clench, your throat tightens; something physical happens. Notice it. Now ask: “What’s that really about?” It has nothing to do with the other person, and everything to do with a belief you’re projecting onto them. For example, Jane sails into the staff meeting ten minutes late as usual, and your jaw clenches. Notice it. When the time is appropriate, go deeper and think about what that was really about for you. Maybe, “When she’s late, it means she doesn’t respect me.” Aha! Now the real issue of respect is on the table, for you to explore and release. Quite frankly, this isn’t for the faint of heart – it’s so much easier, after all, to make it about the other person. But that’s ultimately disempowering. When you release an underlying belief that isn’t serving you, you release vast reserves of precious energy.

Collaboration & Community

An empowered leader connects and creates leverage. In this era of the so-called “superwoman,” our capes get donned right along with the pantyhose and Prada. We do it all, and we do it exceptionally well – but at a price. Ladies, it’s time to retire the cape. When you put yourself on the fast-forward fast track with little respite, burnout is around the bend and it’s just not a powerful place to lead from. Be the leader who magnetizes and inspires. Women are fabulous collaborators and create miracles together when joined in a common purpose. Results unfold with less effort and increased empowerment for everyone.

celebration is directly connected to the law of attraction. Focus on what you do want (versus what you don’t). It’s the science of attracting more of what you want, with ease.

Vision

An empowered leader knows life isn’t done to her; life is up to her. Envision your future before it arrives. Creative visualization and vision boards are two excellent tools for unleashing a powerful level of manifestation. Develop crystal clarity on what your values are and what you want, while embracing what you’ve got. Accept the now, and set intentions for the future. If you can do this without attachment to the outcome, it’s pure magic.

Humanity

An empowered leader comprehends the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” We’re all connected and on this journey together. An empowered leader understands that how she treats another is how she’s treating herself. On an expanded level, charitable support to our global sisters is just as important as our own community, because it’s all woven together in the fabric that joins us all.

Worth

An empowered leader resonates with her sense of worth from within. Our true sense of worth is never externally sourced. It’s not generated by a bank account, job title or awesome red shoes – all of which are great, but ephemeral. The true strength and power of our worth comes from within. It’s more enduring than titanium, and is an infinite resource almost humbling in its magnitude. Create some quiet time for yourself every day, and breathe in your inherent value and exquisite perfection. You are a “Woman Of Worth,” and you are glorious.

Celebration

An empowered leader celebrates everything. Begin within, and celebrate your magnificence at every opportunity. Then, and only then, can you genuinely celebrate everyone and everything else. Retire that old “not enough” story along with the cape. When you find your inner dialogue caught up in the “I’m not thin enough, rich enough, smart enough” fairytale, interrupt the old recording with new programming. (I personally favour “I’m a rock star!” but find your own phrase to groove with.) Authentic

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

Christine Awram is the Founder of Woman Of Worth WOW Events and Wellpro. Diagnosed decades ago with a rare eye disease that was supposed to leave her blind, being a “medical miracle” refined her simple yet cutting-edge Strategic Self-Care system. Frequently interviewed by the media, she is committed to inspiring the global empowerment of women. A dynamic EDUtainment speaker and writer, Christine radiates vitality and has inspired thousands to happier, healthier and more empowered lives. She also believes chocolate is a vegetable, as it comes from a bean. For more information visit www.awomanofworth.com.

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Spring Clean Your Beauty Routine: Old Habits May Be Harmful to Your Skin By Amanda Beisel

hen it comes to the beauty and skincare industry, anything goes. The industry is money-driven and poorly regulated. As a consumer, it’s imperative that you do your own research rather than relying on what advertising or marketing campaigns are telling you. You need to take back control and no longer be a victim of this deceitful industry. Money has always reigned supreme in the beauty industry, and continues to do so. Consumers must carefully choose who and what you trust your skin with. Environmental Working Group estimates that 99 percent of the skincare and personal care products on the American market contain one or more ingredients that have never been evaluated for safety. We are putting more chemicals on our skin than we realize. Women who use non-mineral makeup every day will absorb, on average, five pounds of chemicals each year. It is high time to take a closer look at what you are putting on your skin every day. Begin by reading labels and throwing away products that may be doing you more harm than good. You don’t have to do this all on your own. Find a skincare professional who is educated in skin

health and ingredient profiles to help you replace the bad products with excellent products that are both safe and effective.

Cleanser: Is your cleanser stripping your skin of its vital lipids?

Your skincare routine should include a goodquality cleanser. The importance of a cleanser is often underestimated. The skin is an acid mantle and needs to maintain a pH balance of about 5.5. The slightly acidic skin helps to fight off harmful bacteria. Maintaining the skin pH is vital to protecting ourselves from harmful bacteria that can lead to acne, infection or irritation. You may want to think twice about using a bar of soap on your skin. Soap is highly alkaline, while our skin is naturally acidic; soap will actually neutralize our skin’s acid pH and strip away our natural defense systems. If you suffer from acne and are washing your skin three or four times a day, you are stripping the acid mantle away and can actually worsen the condition. It is important for us to know the pH of cleansers, moisturizers, makeup and other

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

products we use on our skin so that we don’t remove the protective oils and acid mantle from our skin. When searching for a cleanser that will be beneficial to your skin, avoid products containing sodium laureth sulfate, or sodium lauryl ether sulfate. This is a cheap, harsh detergent used in many cleansers and shampoos for its ability to cleanse and foam. Often derived from petroleum, it causes eye irritation, dry scalp, skin rashes and other allergic reactions. This cleansing agent is commonly found in skin cleansers, shampoos, body scrubs, moisturizers, toothpaste and numerous other household ingredients. According to the Cosmetic Safety Database, sodium lauryl sulphate has been linked to cancer, organ system toxicity, neurotoxicity and reproductive issues, including birth defects.

Moisturizer: Is your moisturizer suffocating your skin?

Moisturizers hold water in the outermost layer of your skin, called the epidermis. Moisturizers hydrate and feed moisture to your skin

Products to Avoid In cleansers: • Sodium laureth sulfate or sodium lauryl ether sulfate In moisturizers and serums: • Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens • Petroleum products including mineral oil and • propylene glycol • Synthetic fragrance and parfum In mineral makeup: • Bismuth oxychloride • Talc

while protecting it from environmental damage. Many moisturizers contain some combination of humectants and emollients, as well as other ingredients. It is important to wear moisturizer daily to protect your skin from TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss) and from environmental toxins. If your skin loses water, it cannot function properly and this will lead to the penetration of many toxic substances from the environment. It can be an overwhelming experience looking for a good moisturizer due to the thousands of choices available. A moisturizer should be chosen based on your skin type and condition. But regardless of your skin type, you need to avoid using a moisturizer that contains parabens. Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens are chemicals used as preservatives. They are used to fight bacteria and fungus, are widely available, and cost very little to manufacture and use. There have been many studies conducted to support both sides of the argument about whether or not parabens are safe. Many studies have pointed to parabens being potentially dangerous. They have caused a wide range of allergic reactions and skin rashes, and research in the UK has shown that parabens produce hormone-disrupting effects in the body, including lowered sperm counts, osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases and breast cancer. Also be sure to avoid petroleum products, including mineral oil and propylene glycol. Petroleum products block your skin, coating it like plastic and clogging your pores. If your skin can’t breathe properly, it cannot function properly. Petroleum products such as mineral oil build up toxins in the skin, leading to a host of skin issues. Manufacturers like it because it is colourless, odourless, tasteless, very inexpensive, and readily binds other cosmetic ingredients into a smooth, creamy lotion. It softens skin by holding water in. Propylene glycol is another cosmetic form of mineral oil that is often found in high concentrations in baby lotions, after-shave lotions, moisturizers, foundation creams, mascaras, deodorants, lipsticks and suntan lotions. Propylene glycol is a strong skin irritant that can cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage. Propylene glycol

is widely used because it is an effective humectant that holds moisture in the skin, and it is inexpensive. Synthetic fragrance and parfum are more ingredients you need to avoid in your daily moisturizer. Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates (pronounced THAY-lates), synthetic chemicals commonly used to stabilize fragrances and make plastic more pliable. These endocrine disrupters mimic hormones. There may be up to 200 ingredients encompassed by the term “fragrance.” Furthermore, manufacturers are not required to disclose actual ingredients in their formulas. Reactions to fragrance in personal care products include: coughing, dizziness, headaches, hyper-pigmentation, rash, skin irritation and vomiting.

Serum: Is your serum driving toxins deep within the skin?

Water-based serums contain high concentrations of active ingredients. They have a smaller molecular size compared to moisturizers, allowing them to deliver nutrients into the deeper layer of the skin called the dermis. The dermis is home to collagen and elastin. Due to the increased penetration of serums, you want to be extra careful that you are using only safe ingredients. Oil-based serums work more on the epidermal layer (the outermost layer of the skin) and they are extremely beneficial to the skin. One of the most common skin conditions today is essential fatty acid deficiency, making oil based serums one of the most important products on the market. Essential fatty acids are required for all cell functions and healthy cell membranes. The key ingredients to avoid in serums are the same as those found in moisturizers: parabens, fragrance, propylene glycol, and many others.

Makeup: Is your makeup clogging your skin?

Mineral makeup is the safest choice, but not all

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

mineral makeup is created equal and the regulation of these products is limited. You’ll see some similarity in ingredients among different mineral cosmetic companies, but the proportions will not be the same. High-quality mineral makeup should not clog pores, and should feel like you have no makeup on at all. It should not contain synthetic or irritating ingredients like alcohol, artificial fragrance, mineral oil, talc, bismuth oxychloride or petroleum. When searching for mineral makeup that won’t be harmful to your skin, keep an eye out for bismuth oxychloride and talc. Both are common ingredients in mineral makeup and act as fillers. Bismuth oxychloride is not found in nature; it is a synthetic by-product of lead and copper mixed with chloride and water. Bismuth oxychloride can cause irritation to extremely sensitive skin. Talc can block pores, dry your skin and cause irritation. Mineral makeup products that contain bismuth or talc can appear very cakey on the skin.

Start your beauty detox today

Do your skin and your overall health a favour and start your beauty detox today. Remember, you don’t have to do this on your own. Find a skincare professional who is educated in skin health and understands the importance of using safe products. Together, you can replace all the toxic, dangerous products with safe, healthy and effective ones. The practitioners at SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic are always available to help you on your journey to healthy, beautiful skin.

Amanda Beisel is the owner of the award-winning SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic in Yaletown. Amanda and her team are continuously researching and pushing the boundaries of modern skincare. Through SKN, she offers clients innovative and non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments, all in an effort to repair, restore and replenish the skin and body. Amanda’s mission is to provide great skincare and services while both educating and inspiring others. Contact 604-5686333 or www.sknclinic.ca.

Mini Smile Makeovers:

A New World of Smile

By Dr Kelvin Mah

s someone who is fortunate to live and breathe the wonders of modern dentistry every day, I sometimes forget that the incredible possibilities of the profession, which are so well known to me, are still brand new to my patients. Of course, there’s an upside to this as well. In those special moments when my new patients are introduced to the promise and potential of modern dentistry, it’s as if a bright light suddenly enables them to see a world of new possibilities, hopes and dreams. To illustrate this, I’d like to introduce you to Candy. Candy had a happy, healthy smile, but it was one that she felt could be better. Specifically, Candy’s smile had what’s called a diastema, which is the technical term for a gap between teeth. Plus, Candy, who has a beautiful two-year-old son at home, had recently re-entered the workforce full-time, and was ready to take her career in sales and marketing to the next level. She knew that being self-conscious about her smile would be a barrier between her and her clients – and, therefore, be an obstacle to her professional success. Like so many people, Candy had long believed the only options for her were months of wearing braces or undergoing major invasive dental surgery that would require weeks of healing and several appointments. To her, these weren’t worthwhile options at all. When Candy came to Smile City Square Dental in search of a solution, you can imagine her surprise when I didn’t begin by talking about technical procedures or

treatments. Instead, I asked her a very simple but profound question: What would it mean to you if you had the smile of your dreams? Simply asking that question inspired Candy to imagine new opportunities for professional and personal growth and happiness, and I could clearly sense a qualitative shift in her confidence and energy levels, simply by imagining it! We began discussing options and looking at digital pictures that detailed treatments and outcomes. It wasn’t long before we decided that bonding would be the ideal way to correct Candy’s diastema. It would be safe, painless, effective and, best of all, would require only a single hour-long visit. As you might expect, this completely unexpected news created one of those special moments I referred to earlier – one where the transformative potential of modern dentistry comes to life. Candy could hardly believe that a problem she’d endured for years could be solved in such a simple, quick, inexpensive and painless manner. When Candy arrived for her “mini smile makeover,” the first thing I did was carefully assess and measure the precise dimensions of her two front teeth. After all, I didn’t want to solve her diastema and create a disproportionate smile. Unfortunately, we sometimes see this when we come across someone who has a really great smile – the kind you see in glossy magazine – but it doesn’t fit together in harmony with the overall design contours of their jaw and face. As an artisan dentist, I’m always looking at how the elements combine to create the overall outcome, and

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

Just like Candy, many people suffer for years with diastema, ragged teeth, discoloured teeth, tooth damage, and other smile impairments because they believe the only solution is surgery, or some other major treatment consisting of several visits and high fees.

Before

However, a Mini Smile Makeover can be a swift, comfortable and cost-effective way to dramatically enhance a smile. Below are some common examples of what’s possible: Problem: A patient felt self-conscious about the worn edges of her upper front teeth. Mini Smile Makeover Solution: A combination of composite bonding and recontouring (reshaping) of her teeth’s biting edges, which restored symmetry, balance and harmony to her smile

Before

After

Possibilities that’s why this initial process with Candy was so important. Once that process was complete, I carefully bonded composite resin to Candy’s teeth, using ultra-thin layers in order to seamlessly close the gap. I also used various shades of white, because I wanted the resin to look natural and blend perfectly with her teeth. I’ll never forget the look on Candy’s face when she saw her new smile for the first time – a mixture of amazement, awe and delight! Here’s what Candy had to say about her experience: Dr. Mah was simply remarkable. He was so relaxing, friendly and supportive. He explained everything to me, and made the entire mini smile makeover procedure more comfortable than I possibly imagined. I honestly had no idea that fixing the gap in my smile could be so simple, and I was even more amazed that Dr. Mah could take care of it in a single visit. And today, as I juggle raising an energetic two-year-old and managing a career in sales and marketing, I feel more confident, energized, and I’m no longer self-conscious about my smile! As Candy’s story illustrates, modern dentistry offers a range of mini smile makeover alternatives that are accessible, rapid, safe, inexpensive, painless and, most important, truly life-changing.

Problem: A patient felt unhappy with his dark teeth and chipped edges. Mini Smile Makeover Solution: A custom whitening treatment, and then recontoured (reshaped) the edges. This resulted in a more youthful, softer, problem-free smile.

Before

After These are just some of the many Mini Smile Makeover stories that we write every day at Smile City Square Dental. Contact us at (604) 568-8158 or visit us at www.smilecitysquare.com to learn how we enrich lives, one smile at a time.

How Would You Feel if Your Dreams Came T rue? By Heather White

hat’s your dream? Most adults I know have forgotten all about having a dream. They’re caught up in the day-to-day grind of life: paying bills, putting out fires, keeping things in order, falling into bed at the end of the day, waking up and doing it all over again. We have to stop this madness! Remember when you were a child and you could make up a game on the spot, simply out of time and space? You’d easily slip into various roles of your future goals as you played make believe with your friends, siblings and cousins. You’d daydream and imagine all the amazing experiences you were going to have in your life, seeing one picture after another appear on the screen of your mind. It’s time to get back there! Get back to the place of your playful and imaginative nature, the place where your dream is born.

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

Take a Time Out

In order to reconnect with your imagination, you have to completely remove yourself from the day-to-day. Your habits and your routines are way too much of a distraction and there will be no room for your creative side to come forward and offer new ideas and inspirations for your life. The only way to really dive in and fully explore the depths of your imaginative genius is by taking a time out. Whether it’s an hour, a day, a weekend or, better yet, a week, get out of your routine completely and take a time out from your life. In that space, you can start to ponder the question: what is my dream?

Take Notes

It might sound strange to hear this, but a part of you already knows the answer to the question: what is my dream? It’s your job to create the time and space for the answers to come through (your time out) and when they do, write them down! There is a magical and incredible force that starts to emerge the second you make your dream real, the moment you write it down. Those words scribbled in your journal are sacred.

Ask for Help

I can tell you that achieving your goals and living your dream will not be easy. You’ll likely have to make some big decisions and choices, most of which will be foreign to your habitual way of operating. You’re going to need some help, some support, some guidance and some accountability. Find a mentor, hire a coach, form a mastermind group or get an accountability partner. Whatever you do, get some help if you’re serious about your dream coming true.

DELTA LASER & SKIN CARE CENTRE

Create a Plan

The title of this article, “how would you feel if your dream came true,” means that you have to think all the way through to the end result. That end result is gold. From that point in time, the moment your dream comes true, start to work backwards until you end up at the present moment. As you journey from the end back to the beginning, write down all the action steps you will need to complete. These steps become your success plan, what you have to do to make your dream come true.

Take Action

Now that you have your plan, remember the saying, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Take that step now! If you don’t take action, nothing will happen and you surely won’t make your dream come true. Action is the only thing that will make a difference in your results.

Celebrate Along the Way

AVAILABLE AT: 6305 120 STREET DELTA, BC V4E 2A6

As you take action, your life will begin to change in amazing ways. It’s important to celebrate the changes and the wins along the road to fulfilling your dream. Celebrating will be just the reward you need to give you a momentum boost as you prepare for the next step. You deserve to live a life of excitement and inspiration, a life that makes you want to leap out of bed every day. You deserve to have a dream and to never cease taking steps to reach that incredible day when your dream comes true. Drop the excuses, stop the madness and follow these simple steps to getting on track to that exciting day!

604 5438965

WWW.DELTALASER.CA

Heather White is the CEO of 2020 Communications Inc. She is a business development advisor who helps clients strike the sweet spot between grounded self-care and accelerated profitability. A sought-after speaker and trainer, Heather travels throughout North America injecting vital energy into companies with a vigorous drive for expansion. Dr Marcia Fleming

® of Vivier Canada Inc.

Experts Tell: Anti-aging Products That Work Ever wonder what skincare products the experts themselves use? We asked some of Vancouverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most respected skincare experts for their opinions and recommendations on products that help us age gracefully and beautifully â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and slowly! Learn how to reverse sun damage, promote collagen growth for younger-looking skin, reduce wrinkles, freshen, brighten, tone and plump your skin... and love your face again!

Dr Frances Jang

Dr Marcia Fleming

Dr. Frances Jang is a certified specialist in dermatology and has been in practice for over 20 years, devoting 100 percent of her time to cosmetic dermatology. Dr Jang practices at Skinworks in Vancouver, a unique medical practice created by the merging of a dermatologist and a cosmetic plastic surgeon. www.skinworks.ca

Dr. Marcia Fleming has been practicing in the field of cosmetic rejuvenation in the Vancouver area for over 12 years, now with locations in Delta and Burnaby. Her goal is to help everyone achieve beautiful skin for life, beginning at any age. She can be reached at Delta Laser & Skin Care Centre; call 604-543-8965 or visit www.deltalaser.ca.

Dermatology has seen the evolution of skincare molecules that protect from sun damage to reverse and prevent the signs of aging. A skincare regimen is also pivotal to maintain the results of more invasive laser, lightbased procedures that have become increasingly popular in the dermatology office. A daily regimen should include SPF, retinol, exfoliation, antioxidants and peptides. I especially like the antioxidants such as vitamins C and E or Revale Intense Recovery Treatment, which are well tolerated by all skin types; they work by neutralizing UV damage, enhancing the efficacy of SPF, and minimizing redness in the skin.

My go-to tool in skincare is without a doubt vitamin and retinoid/retinol creams. It is the only product actually proven to regenerate collagen, but it does so much more. It is the golden key to skincare. It exfoliates, improves cellular turnover, slows cells down that are going too fast and speeds up cells that are too slow, which in turn makes the skin more even in color and improves texture by minimizing pores and lines, making the skin radiant and healthy. Studies have proven that using retinoids/ retinols prior to laser treatments improves results. It is a cornerstone treatment of acne and is beneficial for skin of all ages.

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Dr Katie Leah

My favourite anti-aging skincare product is a custom compounded antioxidant cream with Vitamins A, C, E, B12 and zinc. We have it compounded in a natural emollient base that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t congest or clog skin, and helps the vitamins and minerals penetrate to the dermal layer where they have the most protective effect on collagen-producing cells. This cream works particularly well in women with sun-damaged skin, smokers and women with high levels of toxic exposure or stress. As well, because we have it custom compounded, women who are peri-menopausal or menopausal can add in additional bio-identical hormones that reduce wrinkles and fine lines without raising systemic hormone levels. Dr. Katie Leah is a Naturopathic Physician at Integrative Naturopathic Spa: 604.738.1012 or www. integrative.ca.

Dr William McGillivray

As a physician, I need to feel confident that what I recommend is backed by science. C E Ferulic, by Skinceuticals, has cutting-edge technology backed by independent studies. The unique addition of ferulic acid, a plant-based antioxidant, added to the well-known antioxidants L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and vitamin E, results in a more stable formulation with unmatched protection against UV damage, which adds to any SPF being used. The synergistic action between these three antioxidants results in a more uniform, brighter and smoother complexion, but more importantly, healthier skin from the inside out. Dr. McGillivray is actively involved in original clinical research as well as being a national preceptor and speaker for various lasers, Botox Cosmetic and dermal fillers. In 2007, he co-founded Pacific Dermaesthetics in downtown Vancouver. www.vancouverskin.com

Amanda Beisel

Weekly rolling with the SKN Spin roller combined with Stem Factor is an effective, resultsdriven home treatment that is 100 percent safe. Stem Factor contains 150 growth factors that have been derived from human stem cells making them much more effective than plantbased stem cells. When we are young, we have ample amounts of growth factors in our skin and that is what keeps our skin looking smooth, healthy and youthful. With age, these growth factors begin to decline, creating fine lines, wrinkles, poor skin function and other skin conditions. Luckily, with the combination of Stem Factor and the SKN Spin, we can re-build and replenish these vital growth factors. Great results are seen when performing skin needling in combination with Stem Factor once a week. This is a cost-effective way to keep your skin young and healthy without having to leave your home. Amanda Beisel is the owner of the award-winning SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic in Yaletown. Through SKN, she offers clients innovative and non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments, all in an effort to repair, restore and replenish the skin and body. Contact 604-568- 6333 or www.sknclinic.ca.

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the voice of cosmetology professionals since 1929

Hair Extraordinaire:

ShowOff 2012 T

he Third Annual Show Off event was held March 26th at the Vogue Theatre in Vancouver. This elaborate celebration of hair fashion was presented by Beauty-Council, in association with title sponsor L’Oréal Professionnel and media sponsor CityTV. Twelve of BC’s most notable salons showed off their stylistic panache with unique looks and hairinspired performance art, including stage lighting, models and dancers, and complete with extravagant makeup, exuberant costumes and, of course, incredible hair. The theme of this year’s event, “sumptuous beauty,” set the stage for the decadence that was to ensue. The show got underway with a welcoming introduction by Tara Gilbert, CEO of Beauty-

Council. “This is an inspirational evening about bringing the industry together to celebrate our shared passion and appreciate what’s happening in the B.C. hair world,” said Gilbert. BeautyCouncil is an association of cosmetology professionals that provides education and certification for its members. Since 1929, BeautyCouncil has overseen the development of the training curricula and certification of Canada’s cosmetologists, and is widely known as “the voice for cosmetology professionals.” Breakfast Television’s Dawn Chubai acted as emcee and also welcomed the crowd, followed by words from Caroline MacGillivray, founder and executive director of Beauty Night Society. A portion of the event’s proceeds were donated

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to the Beauty Night Society, to help build selfesteem and change lives of women and youth living in poverty. Performances by the 12 contestants, including such style leaders as Suki’s, AXIS Hair Salon, Toni&Guy and Zinc Academy wowed with theatricality that ranged from burlesque to cabaret, interpretive dance to a sumptuous Elizabethan drag. The architectural feats of hair design were truly spectacular across the board, but it was Suki’s that garnered the people’s choice award at the end of the night. Developed to celebrate hair fashion and provide a stage for salons to show off their talent and creativity, the Third Annual Show Off show didn’t disappoint.

SHOP WEST 4TH. FOR A SPECIAL SHOPPING, DINING & PARTY NIGHT TO BENEFIT MOMS. THURSDAY, MAY 10TH. 5PM TO 9PM. Partial proceeds from eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales benefit the Pacific Post Partum Support Society. Visit: www.shopwest4th.com OR www.eatshoplove.org for participating restaurants and retailers.

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The buzz on the best, latest and coolest beauty products from beauty blogger Crystal Jensen! Check out BeautyBuzz411.com

Red: The New Black

My new obsession is rocking red lips. I have always kept a neutral lip, but I’m discovering how much fun a little pop of colour can be. Paired with a smoky eye for a dramatic look, or as a featured lip, Lise Watier’s Haute Couleur High Coverage Lip Lacquer in Rouge Catwalk makes a bold statement. With a lighted applicator and mirror, this lip lacquer will not disappoint. Walk on the wild side and add some colour to your life. Available at

A Beautiful Blend

Since I love anything pink, I could not resist this wonderful little gem. With its versatility and durability, the Beauty Blender is the ultimate makeup sponge. I was able to perfectly blend my foundation, even in the tiniest corner. I love its unique shape and the flawless coverage it gives. Who doesn’t want a streak-free complexion? Say goodbye to boring sponges and hello to this beauty. Grab yours today at www.beautymark.ca.

www.lisewatier.com.

Strawberry & Roses

I love finding products that smell good enough to eat! The Fresh line of natural products reminds me of my childhood, spending time in the kitchen and garden with my grandmother. The Sugar Face Polish gently exfoliates with real brown sugar and strawberries, evoking memories of warm oatmeal and freshly baked pie. A perfect way to follow up and lock in moisture is with the Rose Face Mask. With the captivating scent, I’m reminded of rose bushes in full bloom. I guarantee my grandmother would approve! For more info go to www.fresh.com, or swing by Beauty Mark.

After Glow

Put a little spin back into your skincare. With this powerhouse duo, my skin has been taken to the next level. The SKN Spin is a must-add to any regimen, as it allows products to penetrate deeper and gives a gorgeous, radiant glow. The After Glow Serum pumped my skin full of nutrients and antioxidants, leaving it feeling restored and replenished. Aging skin is no match for these two. Learn more at

www.sknspin.com and visit www.sknclinic.ca.

Tea Please

What better way to combat our Vancouver weather than with a product containing the powerful concentrated Labrador Tea extract. The new line by Lise Watier, Age Control Supreme La Crème, gives superb moisture day and night. The incredible Labrador Tea leaves can withstand extreme climate conditions and do not shed. In my eyes, Labrador tea is a superhero in skincare. Visit www.lisewatier.com.

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Face of Today Fundraiser A Snowy Success

ver 300 guests poured in for the spectacular third annual Face of Today gala event at Ki Modern Japanese + Bar on February 29th. The winter wonderland festivities, complete with an ice queen and gently falling snow, included silent and live auctions and raised a grand total of $120,000 in charitable donations. Face of Today was started by Kasondra Cohen-Herrendorf at the tender age of 22. In the spirit of family philanthropy, Kasondra has followed in her mother’s footsteps (her mother is Army and Navy President and CEO Jacqui Cohen) and those of her forefathers in building a charity that is designed to engage her own generation in making a difference and changing the lives of those in need. Face of Today aims to raise money for underprivileged youth ages 16 to 25, helping them create the next steps

Photo Credit: Erich Saide

in their lives, supporting local programs as well as global microfinancing initiatives. “So many charities go up until age 18 – and then what happens?” says Kasondra. “Face of Today is about creating awareness and providing opportunity for underprivileged youth, turning dreams into reality, helping to enrich other programs and organizations.” “Philanthropy is so important,” she continues. “Show others you care and extend a hand to make a difference. It’s not just about raising money and giving it out; it’s about being active in the community.” She stresses, “no donation is too small.” To find out more about Face of Today, go to www.faceoftoday.ca.

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Riza Santos:

Miss Wor ld Canada Who will be crowned Miss Wor ld Canada 2012?

resh Vancouver Magazine caught up with 2011 Miss World Canada winner Riza Santos, the highly accomplished FilipinoCanadian (plus Chinese and Spanish) actress, television host and, yes, military soldier who is currently working on her finance degree and wins pageants in her spare time. Beauty queen? Sure. But this queen is taking on the world.

facial beauty and body proportion. However, if a woman takes care of her body, has a positive self-image, and strives to reach her full potential and goals in life, then it is something to be celebrated. What’s more, if she chooses to bring attention to these real-life problems and takes them on in a practical and tangible way, then who wouldn’t want to support that?

FV: In this day and age of gender equality and FV: women’s rights, why do we still have beauty pageants?

Santos: Beauty pageants are evolving.

Most prominent world competitions focus on advocating for worthy causes. There are reallife problems in the world that are bigger than us. Sometimes people get caught up in the superficial elements of the competition such as

Reduces appearance of crow’s feet and tired, puffy eyes

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What does the Miss World Canada competition meant to you?

Santos: Participating in the Miss World Canada competition was a great experience for me. I was introduced to Variety – The Children’s Charity and had the opportunity to speak on behalf of and champion causes that benefit children. I also enjoy the element of a little friendly competition. I met so many beau-

Slows down the signs of aging

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The SKN Spin is a revolutionary skincare tool that rejuvenates and exfoliates the skin while dramatically improving the effectiveness of your skincare products. The SKN Spin is a 0.5mm Dermal Roller that is safe, results driven and cost effective - and it fits into almost any skincare regimen. Start rolling with the SKN Spin regularly to improve the look, health, and vibrancy of your skin.

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tiful and accomplished women from across the country, and I still keep in touch with many of them.

FV: How did it feel to win Miss World Canada in 2011?

and host television shows in Macau, Hong Kong and Manila. I also starred in a movie that ranked in the top three at the Philippine box office in 2008. I am also thankful to be working toward the completion of my finance degree.

FV: Tell us about your decision to participate

Santos: In the context of a beauty com-

petition, I believe it is important to embrace the experience and enjoy the process rather than focus on winning the crown. I felt a wealth of emotions including surprise, happiness and relief when I won.

FV:

What do you feel was your greatest strength in the competition?

Santos: I feel that my strengths in the competition were the interview and final question component. I have been able to take advantage of many opportunities in my life thus far: I joined the Canadian Forces Army Reserves at eighteen years old and pushed myself physically and mentally through basic military and soldier qualification. Shortly after, doors opened up for me to take part in the television, movie and modeling industry in Asia. I got to travel

in the swimsuit competition...

Santos: The swimsuit component is referred to as the “healthy body image competition” and is optional. If a contestant chooses not to participate, it will not be detrimental in the overall scoring. Personally, I have no qualms about participating. If a woman has inner confidence, it shouldn’t matter what she is wearing, and she should never strive for acceptance or acknowledgement from anyone but herself. Be a part of the Miss World Canada 2012 crowning gala on May 13th at the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond, BC. For more information and tickets, go to www.missworldcanada.org or ticketmaster.ca.

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Bif Naked

Rocks On By Liberty Craig

24 24 |

fresh vancouver Issue 11 fresh Vancouver Issue 12

orn Beth Torbert to teenage parents in India and raised by missionaries in Kentucky and Manitoba, Bif Naked revamped herself as the edgy, Juno-nominated punk rocker we know today: the genre-bending female vocalist with her unique look and sound; the outwardly brash but soft-on-the-inside persona. She is perhaps most well known for her smash hit “Spaceman,” which helped the 1998 album I Bificus go platinum. The iconic “I Love Myself Today” from 2001’s Purge inspires a rock-out, scream-along-in-the-car kind of love-fest with Bif; while her 2005 cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” on Superbeautifulmonster is breathy and haunting. When Naked produced her recent album, The Promise, she thought she was dying. Yet she went to the studio every day to do her work. As soon as it was complete, she made the soonto-be-released Jakarta (which, says Naked, is “just filthy”). An acoustic album is scheduled for release next. Through it all, Bif has been battling breast cancer. She underwent a year of chemotherapy, had her ovaries removed, and was thrown into menopause as a result. All the while, her brand-new marriage was falling apart. She became a dedicated volunteer at the BC Cancer Agency. She turned 40. Despite the many dramatic changes in her life, Vancouver-based Bif Naked says she’s the same person she always was. She spoke with Fresh Vancouver about cancer, love, eating disorders and her unique world view.

Bif Naked with Breast Cancer

“I didn’t have time to be a cancer patient. I still had to work, still had to be ‘on’ and be a public person. I was Bif Naked with cancer, and that’s very different. There was no time for me to be anonymous or sick. But there are cancer patients who take the bus in from Surrey for chemo, or who have four kids and can’t find child care so they lug their kids in with them. On my sickest days, I would just think of what these people could do.

“I was Bif Naked with cancer, and that’s very different. There was no time for me to be anonymous or sick.” “My cancer treatment was as expected: all my hair fell out and I gained 30 pounds. Most breast cancer patients I worked with gained a minimum of 20 pounds because of the steroids and hormones. With chemotherapy, your fatigue and malaise is cumulative. It was like

Bif Naked: Then and Now

“When I put my first record out, I was struggling to gain acceptance in a boy’s world. My management used to tell me not to talk on stage because it would betray my heavy image. As soon as I spoke, I would be thanking everyone for coming, saying ‘Oh my gosh, I’m so happy to be here,’ and they’d be like, ‘Hey! Shhh!’ It’s funny because now they can’t control that, thanks to tools like Twitter. I feel like I’ve always been the same person. I come from a completely religious home – my parents were missionaries who raised me Christian and Hindu. There was no smoking or drinking in my house. There were gratitude prayers before every meal. I realize that I’ve become my parents; I am the sum of my parents.”

The Sum of Parents

“Having had the opportunity to meet my birth mother, I know that there is also so much of her in me. I like having the ability to discern what part of me is genetic and what part of me is environmental. My birth mother is only 16 years older than me, and we have so much in common. We look identical. I follow my birth dad on twitter, but he doesn’t know it. He has no clue who I am – I would never go there with him. It doesn’t matter anymore. I already know that I’m predisposed to having cancer so I don’t need the medical history, which was the original reason I contacted him.”

they don’t really understand. I discovered that I could help by acting as a medical translator or protocol cheerleader. I spent more time at the cancer agency, just seeing if anyone needed anything. Had I had a comfortable home situation, I may not have been driven out of my house to volunteer, and thereby discovered how much I loved doing it.”

“I’ve said yes to every boy who’s ever asked me to marry him, and I probably always will.” Marriage in Sickness

“I’m getting divorced, which has challenged my trust issues. There was a lot that transpired and it really tested my faith in humanity. It’s hard to say what happened. He wasn’t into me; I don’t know how else to frame it. It really speaks to my decision-making process: I’ve said yes to every boy who’s ever asked me to marry him, and I probably always will – without regret! My first husband was when I was 18, and then I was engaged about three times. You go into everything with the best of intentions, but the universe said no. The universe said, because you married this person and you don’t know him, I’m going to give you cancer so you get to know each other through your coping skills. And if your coping skills are not well matched, it’s going to be pretty obvious that it’s not the best decision you could have made. More than anything, I just feel bad. I wouldn’t wish a wife with cancer on anybody. I’ve met a lot of patients who have wonderful, loving husbands. It can facilitate a real deepening between people, but that was not my experience.”

Cancer + Divorce Equals... A New Album?

having narcolepsy! After 13 months of chemotherapy infusions, I’m still on medications because I had my ovaries out, which also threw me into menopause. It’s been very interesting to have that unfold – it’s really nothing like what we think, just like cancer.”

“I just went to the studio every day instead of staying in bed. It was tough, for sure, but it was better than being at home. And it was a good process – I love my work. I love songwriting and I’m lucky to be doing the same thing 25 years later. It’s been amazing. At the time when I was making The Promise, I still thought I was going to croak. And then of course, I didn’t, and I figure God wants me to get through more of this life without any short cuts! So we finished The Promise and right after that we made the Jakarta record, which is filthy, just filthy. It’s all about sex. A year later we made the acoustic record, which isn’t out yet.”

A Heart Full of Help

Less than Zero

“A lot of people have an inability to speak about cancer, or are under such shock and duress in an appointment with a doctor, they don’t have any clue what the doctors are telling them. They’re terrified and their family is terrified – no one’s listening, or they disassociate, or

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“I didn’t have a period from age 25 until I had breast cancer. Orthorexia is about people who work out in the gym for hours every day and maintain a strict diet. I think it’s much more common than we think. Whenever I was feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, I would de-

cide that, spiritually, I needed to have nothing. I’d also be stuck on a tour bus with no vegan food and with a bunch of beer-drinking, steakeating boys – which is great, I wanted them to be happy, but I would just fast. I wound up getting really underweight. I was a size minus one. People always said, you look awesome!”

ways say it’s a good way to rationalize our own anxieties – why wouldn’t we do that?

Raw Foodist Revolt

“When I was 22 or 23, I was studying Buddhism, and it occurred to me that everyone has sat down at some point and cried heaving, uncontrollable sobs. Look around at all the people on the bus one day and think: what’s the thing that made you feel that way? It’s a great exercise to help you tap into an immediate compassion. If I feel stressed out or overwhelmed, I admonish myself and think, why is this moment all about me? It really does take me out of my shit. There are always bigger problems, and none of them are mine.”

“I was very stubborn and very strict about being a raw foodist – I was almost 100 percent raw for ten years. The first time my white blood cell count plummeted during cancer treatment, all I wanted was yam rolls. Like a pregnant woman! When you begin to recover after a round of chemo, right before you’re ready for the next round, you feel so much better and your appetite goes bananas. I wanted piles of yam rolls and, I assure you, sushi rice is not a raw food. I just thought, I’m going to eat whatever my body wants. One month all I wanted was pineapple. The next month, pineapple made me throw up and all I wanted was papaya. I would say I’m about 70 percent raw now. I figure, God didn’t want me to survive cancer and not have a fucking cup of coffee. Technically, you lose your raw food badge if you have coffee, but I’m okay with that.”

There are always bigger problems, and none of them are mine.

“I’ve decided I like it so much, I’m always going to be 40.” Love of Forty

“On my fortieth birthday, I was on tour in Thunder Bay, Ontario. I was doing laundry in my hotel, by myself, sitting on the washer and thinking, well, here you go. This is your glamorous life at 40. And you know what? It was perfect. I’ve decided I like it so much, I’m always going to be 40. When I’m 75, my friends will know to throw me a fortieth birthday party. Our culture is changing as our population ages. I know two girls from my gym who get injections. They say I need them, but I’m like, doesn’t that hurt? I’m not there yet; I can’t envision it. But I get the whole facelift thing. I’ll probably get a facelift when I’m 70, or maybe 60 – I’ll just pull it up! Why not? I do notice a difference at forty, but I can’t tell whether it’s menopause or age.”

The Naked Universe

“It’s hard for me to look at cancer like a difficult thing because it was such an easy facet of my life during that time – cancer was the least of my problems. It brought me to all my volunteer work, and I never would have had that opportunity if I hadn’t been diagnosed. If I hadn’t been anorexic, I wouldn’t have found my lump. I’m really grateful for all the adversities. My dad thinks I find a way to justify any bad things in my life. My positivity is a justification, spinning a silver lining to make myself feel better. I al-

26 | fresh vancouver Issue 11 26 | fresh Vancouver Issue 12

Beautiful Bif

“What I think is beautiful in women is confidence. Maybe it’s because I didn’t have any as a kid. Once I started getting tattoos and doing the whole ‘Bettie Page in a wife beater’ thing when I was 18, it was like an armour to appear tougher or less approachable. I was in ballet for 13 years trying to be very thin, and it never worked for me. I was a big girl. I was called ‘big butt’ at my first job in Winnipeg, and I was called ‘modern dairy’ in high school because my boobs were big. I was a normal, average girl. The tiny muscle girl I became was because I stopped eating. But I’ve had such a great career; it’s so much fun. I would be happy if I were a hospital orderly for the rest of my life, with just these memories. Anywhere I go from this point in my career is just fun.”

Miss 速 World Canada 2012

COMPETITION & AWARD CEREMONY

Sunday, May 13, 2012 at 7:00 pm Miss World Canada 2011 Riza Santos

Tickets Available Now at Ticketmaster

800.939.0810

In partnership with

www.missworldcanada.org

Home Treatments vs. Medi-Spa

When Can You Afford to Do It Yourself? By Sophia Waters 28

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604.738.1012 www.drleahnd.com @drkatieleahND

e’ve all tried that home remedy or well-advertised new product that makes your skin turn bright red for three days, or promotes the kind of breakout you haven’t seen since you were 16 years old. Conversely, most of us have experimented with big-ticket skincare items that have resulted in zero noticeable change in the condition of our skin. But do we really need to head to the medispa for assistance? A medical spa, says the International Medical Spa Association, is a “facility that operates under the full-time, on-site supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. The facility operates within the scope of practice of its staff, and offers traditional, complementary, and alternative health practices and treatments in a spa-like setting.” The benefit of a medi-spa is the expertise contained therein. Treatments offered can range according to the practitioners involved, but typically include the services of a medical clinic combined with those of a day spa. Usually, a medi-spa will offer some combination of hair removal, laser skincare treatments, IPL and photo facials, Botox and injectable fillers, facials and massage. It’s a big step up from your average pedicure and the experience tends to be a little more clinical than the spa, but again this will vary between establishments. Another benefit of a medi-spa is access to physician-grade skincare products, with trained skincare experts at the ready for the assessment and treatment of your skin. Depending on your age, skin condition and desired outcome, a medi-spa visit can be a vital tool in preventing problems and maintaining healthy skin. Conversely, there are home remedies that are available to everyone at a lesser cost. Obviously, homecare options include introductory remedies only and do not extend to advanced procedures like injectables, laser treatments and chemical peels, which absolutely must be performed by a qualified physician. Yet there are home skincare treatments that are as good as spa treatments – to an extent. Do your homework to find remedies for the specific skin concerns you are wanting to address. Try experimenting with a few and get to know

how your skin reacts. Here are a few examples of where you might start: • Make your own toner: Rose water has wonderful astringent properties, and can be made by simply pouring boiling water over fresh rose petals, steeping the brew, removing the petals and cooling the liquid before use. • Hydrating facial mask: By simply scrounging in your kitchen, you can ward off dry skin with a hydrating mask made by blending yogurt, honey, aloe vera gel and avocado. Apply to the skin for 20 minutes, then rinse. • At-home body scrub: Make rough winter skin glow with a mixture of equal parts brown sugar, raw oatmeal and olive oil. Apply to the skin in slow, gentle circles for best results. • Soften elbows and knees: Rub half a lemon on those rough elbows and knees to soften the skin and lighten any dark spots. • Facial at home: Try spa-like tools designed for home use, like the SKN Spin skincare tool that is designed to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin while increasing the effectiveness of topical lotions. In a medi-spa, where staff are trained, licensed, expert practitioners, you are going to get what you pay for. The treatments are often of a medical nature that cannot be performed at home. You also get the kind of guidance and advice that is crucial to the long-term health of your skin – and helps you avoid the trial-anderror approach that can make your skin suffer needlessly before you stumble upon the right products for you. However, if you simply can’t afford regular trips to the medi-spa or don’t have the time or inclination, your best course of action is to visit infrequently, and use your physician’s advice and suggested products, and maybe a few home remedies to keep you going between visits. Do your research to find a medi-spa that is well respected in your community. A medispa is governed by doctors and certified practitioners, yet there is some laxity as to who performs particular procedures (doctor training and supervision being the requirement). Don’t

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look feel &be your best

in every stage of life Comprehensive testing & treatments to optimize your health & well-being: Food allergy, sensitivity & intolerance Digestive & skin disorders Menstrual disorders, fertility, & menopause Bio-identical hormone replacement

Naturopathic skin care & cosmetic services include: Cosmetic Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Facial Rejuvenation Hyaluronic acid fillers Comprehensive skin care treatments to maximize inner health & outer radiance

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Cosmetic

Platelet Rich Plasma Facial Rejuvenation By Dr. Katie Leah, ND

ou can embrace the aging process gracefully and still have a healthy and youthfullooking appearance. To do this, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to look further than your own body for a natural fountain of youth. You have inside of you the power to heal and regenerate tissue in all areas of your body. Stem cells do this for you every day of your life. Cosmetic Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Facial Rejuvenation is a leading-edge procedure that harnesses the healing power of platelets and growth factors from your blood to stimulate a stem cell response. These stem cells help you grow new collagen and blood vessels, repair and regenerate damaged skin, and help slow and reverse the signs of aging.

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The Aging Face

As we age, most women experience a loss of volume and skin integrity that results in common cosmetic complaints, which include the following: • Crow’s feet • Lip and frown lines • Deep depressions around the nose and mouth • Volume loss in the cheeks • Sagging around the jaw line • Dehydrated skin • Overall loss of healthy, youthful skin texture and tone The face becomes longer and more rectangular as the natural aesthetic curves begin to flatten. The natural aging process can be accelerated by genetics, facial expressions and extrinsic factors like a poor diet, smoking and sun exposure. These all cause oxidative stress, a key component of the aging process, that appears as fine lines, hyperpigmentation, unevenness of skin tone, sagging skin and advanced wrinkling.

Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is an extract of your own blood that contains three to five times more platelets, growth factors, and active proteins for tissue and injury healing. It has been used medically for years to accelerate wound healing; repair tendon, ligament and joint damage; heal diabetic ulcers; and help regrow muscle and bone. When PRP is placed back into the skin by injection or micro-needling, it initiates a localized stem cell response. Over the weeks and months following treatment, this stem cell response recruits collagen-producing cells called fibroblasts. The fibroblasts replace tissue that has been damaged or lost through the aging process with healthy skin that looks refreshed and rejuvenated.

Advantages of Cosmetic PRP

The potential benefits of PRP have led to a recent widespread interest in its use for anti-aging and regenerative purposes. The healing properties of the blood components in PRP can be used as a cosmetic treatment for the following: • Reducing fine lines and wrinkles • Tightening and toning skin • Mild collagen and volume loss • Crow’s feet and dark under eye circles • Acne scarring • Rosacea Within a few weeks of treatment, an overall improvement in skin hydration, texture and tone can be seen. New collagen and blood vessels begin to grow after three to six weeks, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles and volume correction happens over the next three to six months. The effects of Cosmetic PRP can last 12 months to two years, depending on the individual. While it creates a longer-lasting effect in the skin, it does take time to work. For women looking for an immediate effect, Cosmetic PRP can be combined with hyaluronic acid fillers

for quick volume correction. Fillers provide a matrix for building new collagen and can be used to accelerate and sustain the benefits of Cosmetic PRP.

Is Cosmetic PRP Right for You?

Cosmetic wants and needs are unique to every woman and should be addressed individually. Often, women are looking for a refreshed, rejuvenated and youthful appearance without looking frozen or over-plumped, without aggressive surgery, chemicals or toxins. This can be done with the right combination of proper diet and lifestyle, skincare products and carefully chosen cosmetic procedures. Some age-related concerns respond better to Cosmetic PRP, while others respond better to hyaluronic acid fillers, peels or laser resurfacing techniques. The effects of all these treatments are enhanced by using them together, in the right way, under the guidance of the right skincare team. Women and men of all ages can benefit from Cosmetic PRP.

The Cosmetic PRP Procedure

Prior to the Cosmetic PRP procedure, a consultation is done to assess cosmetic needs and determine the best combination of treatments to achieve the desired result. A simple blood

collection is done and processed immediately in a special centrifuge. This concentrates and separates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. After numbing the area being treated, the PRP is injected or reapplied to the skin using a micro-needling device. Proper after-care and follow-up is done as a part of all treatments. Cosmetic PRP is a simple and safe procedure. The most common side effects are mild swelling and bruising that may last three to seven days. Because the PRP is extracted from your own blood, there is no risk of disease transmission, allergic or immune reaction. As with all cosmetic procedures, however, there are certain health conditions, such as autoimmune and blood disorders, that may limit its use. There is exciting potential for the use of PRP in regenerative, anti-aging and cosmetic medicine. It is a safe, effective and natural way of harnessing the healing power of your own blood to help reverse the signs of aging. As part of an integrated approach to skincare that addresses both internal and external factors, Cosmetic PRP can be your natural fountain of youth.

For more information about Cosmetic PRP or to book your consultation, please contact Dr. Katie Leah, Naturopathic Physician, at Integrative Naturopathic Spa: 604.738.1012.

Always a Bri de: Beautiful Makeup for Brides of All Ages By Julie Brown

ou’re in search of the perfect dress, invitations, photographer, music, flowers and more. But there is just one more thing to consider: your beautiful face! Wedding day beauty should be a priority. This is one day when you are guaranteed to be the star attraction! This is not the moment to try anything tricky or novel, nor is it the moment to experiment with look-of-the-moment makeup. Beauty trends change as quickly as fashion trends; it’s best to look timelessly beautiful. The photographs in your wedding album are forever – you don’t want to look at them in ten years and see a hopelessly dated look. In general, all your makeup should be strong, pretty, and incorporate long-wear products that look best in photography.

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For the biggest day of your life, you need makeup that will last from the morning champagne with bridesmaids or friends, until you collapse into that huge bed in the bridal suite. If the idea of putting on eyeliner makes your hand shake, this is the time you should put your trust in a true professional to do your wedding day makeup, regardless of your age. Whether you have delayed your nuptials until later in life or are a very young bride, here are some tips to help you look your best on your special day.

want the frame of your face to be present, and your eyes to pop. Avoid frosts, shimmers or sparkly makeup, as these tend to accentuate lines and texture on the skin. An eye primer before eye shadow or eye liner is a must, along with other long-wearing formulas in foundation and concealer. Use a lip liner to define the lips and help prevent feathering around the mouth area. A great lip-coloured lipstick with gloss on top looks great. False lashes, again, are important to help give the appearance of thicker, longer lashes.

20s

50s

If there is an age group that can pull almost any makeup look off, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s this one. Without going overboard, (not too much frost or shimmer, ladies!) this is the age to incorporate colour and more fashion forward looks. This is the time to go for that pop in the lips with a classic red. Remember, you still want it to look timeless, but at the same time, have a little fun with your makeup and accessories!

30s

You are still able to incorporate fashion forward makeup, but really put an emphasis on looking flawless with well moisturized skin and good coverage in a foundation. Choose an area of focus such as your eyes. False lashes are a must for looking great in photography. Go for a hue of lipstick that will look great in photos for years to come, from a pinky nude to a subdued shade of red.

40s

As the lines have started to show, along with dark circles under the eyes and perhaps loss of fullness in the skin, this is when a little makeup trickery comes into play. Prominent, filled in brows are so important. You

Sometimes at this age, the face can look monochromatic or one colour tone, as the colour in lashes, brows, and lips have faded. This makeup is as much about bringing colour back into the face as it is about mastering the makeup application to accentuate oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best features and remove emphasis from the areas of aging. Use long-wearing foundation and concealer, and stick with matte formulas in eye shadow and blush. Define and fill in the lip with a lip liner that is lip colour or a little darker. Add gloss to the lips to give the appearance of fuller lips and to conceal lines on this area. I recommend natural-looking false lashes in this age group or a few individual lashes at the outer corners if the eyes.

Julie Brown has been drawn to makeup artistry from a very young age. She has parlayed this lifelong hobby into a career that spans from bridal makeup and runway fashion show to makeup for TV and film. An honours graduate from the renowned makeup school Blanche Macdonald, Julie loves to help women bring out their true beauty potential. She loves sharing tips and techniques with women and testing products to share what works and what products to avoid. It is this combination of inventiveness and skill that she hopes sets her apart from her contemporaries. She writes a free monthly newsletter available on her website at www.letsfaceitbeauty.ca.

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Article Credits: Make Up & Hair: Julie Brown letsfaceitbeauty.ca Photography: Willow Nova willownova.com Stylist: Vivian Tai Models: Sari Mercer @ Lexington (20’s) Erika Walter (30’s) Julie Brown (40’s) Nancy von Euw (50’s) Veils, Accessories & Jewelry: Marian Ofreneo of MCT Designs available at Ellebay Bridal Boutique

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Surprise! It’s Your Wedding! G

lobal BC news anchor Lynn Colliar thought she was having a New Year’s Eve party. She’d been doing the early news all week and she had a six-month-old baby girl, and 45-year-old Lynn was exhausted. She kept asking her partner, should they really have a party? They’d invited about a dozen close friends to come ring in the new year with them, asking them to come any time after 8 pm. Keeping it casual in leggings, boots and a sweater, Lynn hadn’t even finished putting out the party supplies when the doorbell rang at 8:01. There were 40 people at the door. Surprised but undaunted, Lynn greeted everyone and ushered them in. The party got underway. Then, at 9 pm, something happened: Lynn’s partner, Glenn Ennis, called everyone to attention. He ripped off his jeans and sweater to reveal the tuxedo he had on underneath, and got down on

one knee. Lynn, in a panic over her too-casual attire, reached for a shot of tequila. Glenn proposed and Lynn accepted happily and tearfully. “Wouldn’t it be great,” said Glenn, “if we could get married right now, right here?” Enter Global BC news anchor Chris Gaelus, who whipped out the appropriate paperwork and volunteered for the job of marrying the happy couple. “Everyone started shrieking,” said Lynn. “Then [Global BC news anchor] Randene [Neill] and four of my best girlfriends and my hairdresser took me into a limo. I was shell-shocked! They didn’t tell me where we were going. We went to a hotel, where I found eight beautiful wedding dresses that Randene had borrowed from Blush Bridal. Randene said stylist Crystal Carson was a huge help in coordinating the dresses from Blush. I started trying on dresses, and found one that was like it was made for me. I’d also been given beautiful ear-

| fresh Vancouver Issue 12

rings to wear and my hairdresser did my hair and makeup. When we got back to the house, my seven-year-old niece was scattering rose petals on the ground, and the guys had transformed the back deck into an amazing fairytale wedding scene. There were lights, candles, 350 long-stemmed roses... it was unbelievable!” Guests of the “ambush wedding” had no idea what they were in for that magical night. Glenn had simply told everyone to arrive at 8:00 sharp in preparation for a surprise event at 9 pm. “Even my parents didn’t know,” says Lynn. “Everyone was blown away!” Located in West Vancouver, Blush Bridal and Special Occasions features Western Canada’s only Vera Wang bridal shop-in-shop, plus a separate salon featuring beautiful bridal gowns by internationally renowned designers including Amsale, Romona Keveza, Nicole Miller and Ines Di Santo. blushoccasions.com

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SKN Spin “After Glow” Serum Replenish, restore, rejuvenate! This is not your ordinary skin oil. It is a powerhouse, packed full of antioxidants and nutrients to make an extremely effective anti-aging and healing oil. This oil-based serum is 100% pure and active with absolutely NO fillers, designed to restore and repair the skin while hydrating and replenishing it. While supplying your skin with every lipid (ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids) it needs to function optimally, the fast-absorbing, nourishing oil will lock in moisture while protecting and restoring your skin. The huge list of benefits includes reducing fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin texture, regulating acne and oil output, healing rosacea and eczema, and serving as a wonderful post-treatment oil after peels, lasers and tattoos. Perfect partner to the SKN Spin Dermal Roller. Directions: Apply the serum after rolling with your SKN Spin. The “After Glow” serum can also be used daily in the morning and/ or evening to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Mix one to two drops into your moisturizer, blend together and apply. For extra hydration, apply prior to your moisturizer and let absorb for one minute; then apply moisturizer. www.sknspin.com or 1.800.332.3106

Glossy Box New to Canada! GLOSSYBOX is a monthly subscription beauty service that is revolutionizing beauty regimens across the world! Each month, members receive five luxury cosmetics wrapped in the company’s signature powder-pink box. The GLOSSYBOX goal is to share insider know-how and save consumers from tough and costly decisions by sending the best cosmetic and beauty products right to your door for only $15 a month. You can even create your own beauty profile on the website to ensure the products you receive are tailored to your specific beauty needs! GLOSSYBOX gives you the newest beauty trends and the latest products, all in a fashionable container to store your ever-growing beauty collection. www.glossybox.ca

}

The Evolution Chair The Evolution Chair successfully unites the health benefits of active sitting on a stability ball with the convenience and mobility of a rolling office chair. Naturally encouraging proper spinal alignment, the Evolution Chair relieves spinal compression and strengthens your core muscles - all while you sit. For a fresh new look transform your Evolution Chair by slipping on a designer slip cover Cozy. Available in 18 colors, the soft stretch fabric provides the ultimate in comfort and style. Save $25.00 by entering the COUPON CODE “fresh” www.evolutionchair.com

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Jade & Ginseng Radiance Moisturizer This exclusive healing and soothing lotion is formulated with Jade Powder and the unique properties of Ginseng and Angelica Root to strengthen, protect and rejuvenate the skin, while enhancing the immune function of dermal cells. Highly enriched with vitamins, anti-oxidants and natural moisturizers, your skin will become dramatically softer, smoother and more radiant. Excellent for use on sensitive and irritated skin or to stimulate healing after non-invasive facial treatments. www.jadespacollection.com

5 Osmosis Canada Skincare is an all natural, paraben free, physician formulated skincare line. It uses a unique liposomal delivery system to penetrate active ingredients into the dermis, where the majority of skin concerns originate. This helps increase collagen and elastin production, remodel scar tissue, enhance skin nutrition, boost growth factors and repair DNA damage. It smells great, feels wonderful and effectively reduces visible signs of aging, acne, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. For more information please go to www.vitalsanteinc.com

6 Cold is the New Hot! Qore Health Centre & Spa is Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Whole body CryoTherapy clinic and is adding a powerful ally in the fight against aging. In Cryotherapy, the skin is briefly chilled and reacts positively with an increased production of collagen which improves the tone and smoothness of skin and is also an effective treatment of cellulite. Cryotherapyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anti aging benefits also include increased elasticity and a slowing down of peripheral metabolism and cell breakdown. Visit them at www.qorehealth.ca. This is definitely the COOLEST way to stay healthy! 604-521-8807

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Advantages of

Infrared Sauna By Bob Morgan

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aunas – in one form or another – have been used for centuries by cultures around the globe to attain body purification, relaxation and rejuvenation. It is not always clear what people mean when they refer to saunas. We are often asked if we offer “dry” or “steam” saunas. They are actually two distinct things: saunas and steam rooms. Steam rooms are run at lower temperatures but with 100 percent humidity, and are usually made of ceramic tile. Saunas are usually wooden and are used dry, at considerably higher air temperatures with the option of creating bursts of steam by sprinkling water onto a pile of hot stones.

The Age of Infrared

In the mid-eighties, a new kind of sauna arrived in North America: “farinfrared” (FIR) or “infrared” saunas were first imported from Japan and South Korea. These smaller plug-in units remained in relative obscurity until the internet boom of the 1990s brought them to the public’s attention. Now, the marketplace is teeming with them. Most brands are made in China and distributed in North America by US and Canadian companies under their own brand names. There are several key distinctions between FIR and traditional saunas. The most notable differences seem counter-intuitive: the FIR units are used at lower temperatures, yet they often induce heavier sweating than in the hotter traditional ones. How can that be? The answer lies in the faster speed and higher efficiency with which infrared energy warms the body as compared to heated air. Sweating is triggered as a defense mechanism to keep us from overheating, and the level of this response corresponds with the rate of body heating. That rate is simply higher with most FIR saunas than with traditional ones.

How it Works

Infrared energy is simply natural “heat energy” – a form of non-visible light that is radiated from any and all objects. It is converted to heat upon absorption. Our bodies radiate far-infrared. The sun is often cited in FIR sauna literature as a primary example of an energy radiator. Energy is radiated from the sun in waves of varying frequencies that, in total,

comprise the “spectrum.” Infrared is the area of the spectrum with frequencies that are “just below red light” – which is the literal meaning of “infrared.” All saunas are a mix of heated air and infrared energy, but the FIR sauna flips the ratio strongly towards the FIR side of the balance. That means the minimal air temperature required to induce sweating – the typical temperature range of the sauna, the other side of the balance – is lower with FIR saunas. A key advantage of FIR saunas is the lower temperatures, but because the body heating is faster, the detoxification benefits can be higher as the sweat rate is often higher. The better FIR sauna heaters are ceramic-based – the original, tried and true technology. Those that are carbon-based are promoted as newer and, therefore, superior, but they are largely synthetic and do not emit nearly as much infrared energy per area as the ceramics do. With carbon heating, the sauna’s air temperature needs to be closer to the traditional sauna’s, minimizing one of the primary advantages of the FIR sauna.

The Benefits of FIR

When the body is heated in a sauna, blood flow increases markedly – up to two to three times. This can increase the rates of delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells, as well as the removal of waste materials. Heat in general, and infrared specifically (because of the blood flow increase), has a long history of therapeutic use for pain and stiffness. Infrared sauna has become particularly interesting for its proven detoxification capacities. FIR saunas are not medical devices per se, but they are increasingly used as adjunctive aids to other therapeutic modalities for a host of health issues, from lyme disease to autism, chemical exposure, metal toxicity, and cancer. For any health issues, one must, of course, work with one’s personal physician to determine if FIR sauna use is appropriate. Bob Morgan is the owner and founder of Heavenly Heat Saunas founded in 1987 www.heavenlyheatsaunas.com.

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Freshly Launched: Living Free Canada

onsider these statistics: 96.8 million adult internet users will use online coupons in 2013. In 2010, consumers saved $3.7 billion using coupons. Coupons are no longer simply a signpost of a flailing economy; they are a cost-saving measure that is here to stay, and, in fact, are growing in popularity thanks to the giant online “daily deal” coupon sites. Living Free Canada is a new take on the online coupon website; it is unlike Groupon and other daily deals sites in many ways. For starters, Living Free Canada is a health and wellness community that provides coupons dedicated solely to bringing consumers the fun and healthy lifestyles they desire. Unlike most “bargain hunter” discount sites, Living Free Canada features only one high-quality deal each day. Each Vancouver deal is hand-selected by local Vancouver residents, who find the best deals in our fair city. With much lower rates for advertisers, this coupon site is not about being a “margin giant” that requires quantity over qual-

ity and doesn’t care who the advertisers are; it’s about your lifestyle and your community. A portion of the proceeds from each sale are donated to health and fitness -oriented children’s organizations. Living Free Canada is the brainchild of Blair Kaplan, who was chasing a dream of maintaining a fun and healthy lifestyle while still being able to save money. She wanted easy, affordable access to the things she loved: leisure activities, beauty rituals, fitness and yoga classes, and other quality lifestyle pursuits. Kaplan began the business with 29 merchants in the Greater Vancouver area and grew it into the nationwide, elite coupon community it is today. With the slogan “active mind, happy heart and loving soul” and the desire to bring quality experiences to Canadians near and far, Living Free Canada hopes to inspire its members while giving them the tools they need to live a better life. www.livingfreecanada.com

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Ayurvedic Corner:

Allergy Season: An Ayurvedic perspective By Sam Hari

pring: a time when the entire world awakens from the slumbering days of winter. Unfortunately for many people, this is a time when our allergies awaken as well. As the trees begin to bloom and pollen fills the air, many will start to show the telltale signs of seasonal allergies. Red, itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezing and coughing are the most common symptoms; however, some people may suffer general aches and pains along with a slight fever and other discomforts. In western medicine, seasonal allergies occur when the body reacts to foreign airborne particles like tree, grass or flower pollens. For most people, this is never an issue and we can go about our daily routines quite easily. People who are allergy prone will react to these particles as invaders to the body and will produce antibodies to combat them. This can, in turn, cause some cells to release histamines into our system. Histamines are the cause of the dreaded allergy symptoms that occur in many people. The western perspective prescribes histamine blockers that stop this action from occurring, thus providing symptomatic relief. In Ayurveda, we tend to look at things a little differently. Rather than merely trying to alleviate the symptoms, we try to find the root cause of the allergies and help the body come back to a state where it can effectively cope with allergens. The cause for allergies, based on the wisdom of Ayurveda, is Ama (undigested metabolic wastes or toxins). Ama accumulates in our bodies, causing blockages that impair our digestion at a cellular level. These blockages in turn confuse our bodies into defending themselves from a perceived threat. Improper functioning of Agni (digestive fire) should be corrected and is always the first step in Ayurvedic treatment. The foods we take in often cause allergies. Improper timing of meals or improper food combinations should also be addressed. Other factors may include preservatives and chemicals in the foods we consume. A holistic system of medicine, Ayurveda also looks at many other factors including lifestyle choices that may trigger allergies. Ayurvedic treatment and management of allergies differs based on the type of allergy, but usually entails diet and lifestyle changes along with a course of herbs. In severe or chronic cases, a Panchakarma (Ayurvedic cleansing therapy) may be recommended to help flush out toxins and excessive Ama. There are three types of allergies identified in Ayurveda. Let’s look

at each in detail below: 1. Vata-type allergies: These are usually caused by dust and molds. Windy, cold weather has a tendency to aggravate the additional symptoms, which may include tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and gastric bloating and pains. If there are asthmatic symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing, usually there is not much mucus produced but more constriction in the bronchi. Avoid beans and gas-forming foods as well as the consumption of all raw foods, especially during allergy season. Other vegetables to avoid are broccoli and cauliflower. 2. Pitta-type allergies: These are usually caused by contact with pollens, dust or fabrics as well as pet hair. Symptoms tend to display as skin irritations like rashes, allergic types of psoriasis or eczema. Hives, red eyes, fevers and yellowish mucus when coughing are additional symptoms. Hot weather also tends to aggravate these types of allergies. Avoid salty, hot and spicy foods, fermented foods like yogurts and cheeses along with alcohol and deep fried foods. Certain fruits, like oranges and strawberries, play a key role in triggering pitta-type allergies, so it’s a good idea to avoid them as well. 3. Kapha-type allergies: These are the most common allergies generally triggered in springtime, as the trees start to bloom and release pollens into the air. Common symptoms include cough and colds along with heavy congestion or sinitus. Generally speaking, the mucus secreted is clear. There is a tendency for the body to feel heavy and lethargic during this time. Asthmatic symptoms may also occur along with irritation of the mucous membranes. Foods to avoid are cold beverages, sweet items like desserts, along with any excessively sour or salty tastes. Drinking ginger tea will help increase digestion and burn excess Ama that may have accumulated during this time. Sam Hari is an Ayurvedic practitioner at West Coast Ayurveda, specializing in Ayurvedic consultations, along with diet and lifestyle recommendations to help maintain a happy and healthy life. Assistance using traditional Ayurvedic methods to manage many ailments is also available. To find out how this ancient wisdom can help you achieve and maintain optimal health or help manage chronic conditions, visit us online at www.ayurvedichealing.com or call 604.569.3596.

General tips for surviving allergy season:

• Drink warm water or Ginger tea, constantly sipping it throughout the day. • Practice Pranayama daily (ancient breathing exercises that help balance the flow of life energy known as Prana within our bodies). • Try to sleep around 10 pm so the body’s natural repair mechanisms can do their job properly during the optimal time.

This month’s Ayurvedic tip: Traditional Ginger Tea To help you cope with seasonal allergies and improve your digestion, here is a great recipe for a traditional ginger tea used in Ayurveda. 1 cup water (boil on stove instead of microwaving) 1⁄8tsp fresh grated ginger 1⁄2 fresh squeezed lemon 1Tbsp organic honey Boil the cup of water in a teapot along with the ginger and lemon. Stir well. Pour into a cup and add the honey afterwards. Do not boil or cook the honey. For allergies, drink one to three cups a day. Make a large batch and store it in a thermos so you can drink it throughout the day.

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skin tone Makeup Guide for Your

By Thuy Nguyen

akeup is an art form, a study in enhancing the natural beauty of a woman. It can be overwhelming trying to identify the right colours to use on your own, yet every woman has a certain shade suitable for her unique skin complexion and features. You may have heard a professional makeup artist mention that your complexion has an “undertone” of pink or yellow, for example. Determining your undertone allows you to pick the right shade of makeup (foundation, powder, blush, etc.) to match your skin.

Skin Tone

Characteristics

Undertone

Fair Fair-Medium Medium Dark

Pale white skin White to brown skin Moderate brown skin Naturally dark brown or black skin

Pink Yellow Olive Brown

Not only does your skin tone help you decide what shade is suitable for your makeup, but the colour of your eyes can help you pick out the right eye shadows, eye liners or mascara. Below are some suggestions for colours you can use to help accentuate the natural beauty of your eyes.

Eye Colour Suggested Colours Hazel Green Blue Brown

Neutral tones such as deep greens, brown or purples, pinks and rose colours. Violet and plum shades will definitely bring out the green, also use shades of grey. Shades of rich browns or even silvers, golds and greys. Deep, earthy tones.

Once you’ve identified the right makeup colours for your skin tone and eye colour, your natural beauty will be accentuated and you will truly shine. Thuy Nguyen is a makeup artist for Pink Orchid Studio.

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o you dream about having a long-desired cosmetic procedure done... but just don’t have the money? Are you worried that you’ll be old and grey before you could ever afford your surgery? If so, you may want to rethink your strategy. Purchasing an aesthetic surgery procedure is similar to any other large purchase, such as a car, furniture or a holiday. Typically, you don’t save up all your extra pennies until you have enough to buy a car; instead, you find a reasonable financing option that allows you to purchase the car, and you pay for it in comfortable monthly installments, with the ability to use the car for years before the total price is paid in full. Many people aren’t aware that aesthetic procedures can be undertaken using the same financing model. Suppose your nose, breasts, or excess belly skin after the birth of your children is affecting your day-today quality of life; whatever it is about yourself that you don’t like, it is making you unhappy. But the cost of the procedure seems out of reach, and though you put away a few extra dollars each month, you are not happy with how long it’s going to take you to reach your goal. You may not have enough room on your credit card for your desired procedure, or you may not want to incur that much credit card debt, with the associated high interest rates and the risk of hitting your limit when you need other items. There is another option available to potential patients, one which may be easily and readily available through your doctor’s office. Simply ask your doctor about term financing. Term financing is a tool that allows you to have your treatment right away, and pay for it with manageable monthly installments at a lower interest rate than most credit cards. Some practitioners nowadays will offer multiple term financing options, allowing you to choose the right payment plan for your unique situation. Term financing simply refers to a short-term loan from a third-party lending agent that is meant to be paid out by installments within a set period of time. Short-term loans like these offer the stability of fixed in-

| fresh vancouver Issue 11

The Easiest Way to Achieve Your Aesthetic

Goals By Arne Hassel-Gren

terest rates and a clear plan for how your payment progression will work. If your doctor does not offer term financing, you may wish to suggest that he or she look into the options available to help you achieve your aesthetic goals sooner. Your doctor may be more than willing to hear you out, as term financing can benefit practitioners as well (since they often receive funds in advance of the procedure, allowing them to avoid any upfront costs for equipment or materials). Term financing enables you to have access to the procedures you desire, without overburdening your current financial situation. No longer do you need to put off until tomorrow what you can have done today! Arne Hassel-Gren is responsible for the Crelogix Personal Services business unit; creating, developing and supporting new and current partnerships within the membership market and health care providers sector in Canada. Arne works closely with service providers in each of these market sectors to increase the business partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sales, cash flow and bottom-line profits with consumer-focused financing programs.

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• Ten Years Younger: The Newest Non-Surgical Treatments • Injectables Report: Beware of Fraud! • Summer Ready Body Blitz • Getting Rid of Varicose Veins • Complementary Therapy: Biofeedback

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Luxury Mini Mani Fashion & Photo Shoot Just for Men: Wardrobe & Whisky The Final Look & Taste: Make-up and Chocolate 101

Visit www.artsumbrella.com/indulge for tickets or more event info!

All proceeds to benefit the inspiring work of: Generously sponsored by:

Hilary Miles Flowers Ltd. Klik Photographic Kuna Photography

Nespresso Nourished from Within Pedersens Rentals and Sales

The Karla Sleightholme Duo TM Events and Promotions Touchpoint Creative

West Coast Whisky Society Xoxolat