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Natural Woman Magazine Contributors Azizah Nubia Editor in Chief Tammarah Overton Chief of Beauty & Fashion Gidget Hunter Allen Photography at GidgetImages Likia Christine Health Contributor Shanell Bowles Russell Make Up & Styles Zephanie Garrett Relationships Contributor MyNque Productions To become a contributor or to advertise with Natural Woman Magazine please email us at asknaturalwoman@gmail.com or visit our Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES website at www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 3
Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
NWM had a blast shooting our cover photo shoot dedicated to Healing through Creative Expression. 1. NWM Models wrap up the shoot with a picture with NWM owner Azizah Nubia and her daughter Andrea. 2. Touch up anyone? Shanell is always making sure our models look 100% fabulous. 3. NWM models pose with Glamour Faces owner Shanell Bowles Russell who did an excellent job with hair & make up on the set of our Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 4
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Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES 5
Contents: Lost ancient City of Atlantis….11
The Art of Feeling Good with Dr. Robbin Alston...31
Uplifting Lauryn Hill… 44
Couture Fashion Week...51
Natural Hair Styles...61 Feng Shoe: The Power of Heels...34
Wealth Building 101….64
Kendrick Lamar...43
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Wordz from the Editor Be free to fully express who you are. We all add flavor to our universe my creativity is my passion and being able to express it gives me FREEDOM. We should not down play our creativity; it can take us on a magical journey of discovering the hidden treasures life has to offer each and every one of us. Using my creative gifts to help others enjoy life is what drives me. With this Healing through Creative Expression issue I want to inspire you to EXPRESS whatever creative talent you posse. Your creativity is your gift to the world. As humans it is our jobs to be creative and problem solve, be inventive, and be new. When I am free to just be, and create I am one with a powerful source that enables me to experience the unlimited potential I posse. It is a wonderful feeling of complete freedom, and that’s something I am grateful to share with you. Natural Woman Magazine is an avenue for me to be creative with my natural born talents. With every issue I am challenged and I grow to a whole new level as our brand grows. Be FREE to express yourself to your highest potential. Be creative in every area of your life. Be creative in your relationships.
Go a little deeper. Think a little higher no one knows your ability but you, there is a force in each and every one of us that is a power so strong that any obstacle you face stands no chance.
But when I tap into my creative mind there is no limit to what I can accomplish. Your creativity is the key that gives you the authenticity to be different it is something that is yours. It is what makes you original. After reading this issue I hope you are left feeling inspired and off to the store to get the ingredients for the Mexican Lasagna on page 20. And be sure to read our Wealth Building article I am pretty sure after reading that, your crown chakras will begin tingling the hairs on your head with all kinds of creative ideas that can bring you more wealth. I also what you to step out of your comfort zone to take that business idea to the next level, start on that project you have been thinking about starting. Whatever it maybe be the best at what you do, your creative gifts are what set you out from the rest. Tap into that and watch how life unfolds. Trust me, it worked for me.
Peace,
Creating this issue has also helped me to incorporate more creative ways to involve my children in my work. With my full plate of priorities CREATIVITY is essential I have to be creative in my thinking, teaching, cooking, every area in my life. Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
Azizah Nubia @AzizahNubia1
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Lavender Lemonade with Honey Try this refreshing drink to cool off a hot sunny day Ingredients 1 Cup Honey 5 Cups Water 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender (or 1/4 cup fresh lavender blossoms)
1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice Directions: Combine honey with 21/2 cups water in medium pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the honey. Add the lavender to the honey water, cover and remove from heat. Let stand at least 20 minutes (and up to several hours) Strain mixture and disNatural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 8
By: Zephanie Garrett
No more excuses, It’s time to make your vision your reality. Whatever you desire you can channel it to manifest it into your life. Whether you want love, joy, a beautiful family, and a marvelous career be passionate about your desires. Make the steps not only to dream, but to be active in making them come true. You've been talking long enough make them happen starting today. Dig deeper, in this season, realize that
your gifts will make room for you. Channel your passion, let it lead you and when you reach your mark. You will be in the company of great likeminded people. Explore the depths of your soul and retain your God given knowledge and wisdom that he has blessed you with from the beginning. Be in tune with your spirit, you have not because you ask not. Be open to receive your desires, visualize it happening, and have faith it will. Passion is the key to life es-
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pecially when we find someone to love. It can strengthen the bonds of a relationship. When that emotion resonates, you feel good towards that person and the connection you have will make you love them deeper than some can imagine. Passion can make you feel your loved ones presence when they’re not even in the same room. There is a darker side of passion that can boil over into obsession, pain, and rage. You don’t want to be in unhealthy territory when you’re in love, because when that line is crossed it’s hard to turn back. Keep a balance so this will not hinder your relationship. Always know you can’t make someone love you. If you have to play games and strategize to manipulate someone you love to be with you. You've already failed, because you’ll never truly have their heart unless it comes freely. If this person is not what you need. Decide which battles to fight for and which ones were never meant for you to begin with. Trust yourself, don’t be afraid to live with passion, and many things will go in your favor.
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Lost City: Atlantis Treasure The 'lost city of Atlantis has eluded explorers for centuries and is almost certainly the stuff of myth. Staggeringly, though, an ancient city that is Atlantis in all but name has emerged from under the sea near Egypt— and now the lost world of Heracleion is giving up its treasures. But no physical evidence of such a grand settlement appeared until 2001, when a group led by French marine archaeologist Franck Goddio stumbled upon some relics that led them to one of the greatest finds of the 21st century. Goddio was in search of Napoleon’s warships from the 1798 Battle of the Nile, when he was defeated by Nelson in these very waters, but came upon this much more significant discovery. Goddio’s team has since been joined by the Oxford Centre for Maritime Archaeology and the Department of Antiquities of Egypt to produce a wealth of dazzling finds. The archaeologists first faced the mammoth task of reassembling massive stone fragments on the sea bed before they could haul them to the surface. Twelve years on, their fabulous finds have been exposed to public view for the first time after more than a millennium spent beneath the silt and water of Aboukir Bay, 20 miles north-east of Alexandria.
Among the discoveries are colossal statues of the Egyptian goddess Auset, the god Hapi, and an unidenti11
fied Egyptian pharaoh — all preserved in immaculate condition by their muddy burial shroud. Along with these 16ft statues there are hundreds of smaller statues of Egyptian gods — among them the figures that guarded the temple where Cleopatra was inaugurated as Queen of the Nile. It seems the Amun-Gereb temple at Heracleion was the Egyptian equivalent of Westminster Abbey, where our own Queen was crowned 60 years ago. Dozens of sarcophagi have been found, containing the bodies of mummified animals sacrificed to Amun-Gereb, the supreme god of the Egyptians. Many amulets, or religious charms, have been unearthed, too, showing gods such as Auset, Asur and Heru. These were made not just for the Egyptians but for visiting traders, who incorporated them into their own religions and also, one imagines, kept them as trinkets to remind them of their far-flung journeys. The importance of Heracleion has been further proved by the discovery of 64 ships — the largest number of ancient vessels ever found in one place — and a mind-boggling 700 anchors. Other finds illustrate how crucial Heracleion was to the economy of the ancient world. Gold coins and lead, bronze and stone weights from Athens (used to measure the value of goods and to calculate the tax owed) show that Heracleion was a lucrative Mediterranean trading post. In the ancient world, the Mediterranean Sea was their equivalent of a superfast motorway. All their greatest cities, including Constantinople, Rome and Athens, were either on the coast or on rivers with easy access to it. And now Heracleion can be added to their number as Egypt’s most important port during the time of the later pharaohs. It was, if you like, a major motorway junction — the spot where the Nile, Egypt’s lifeline, met the Med. Archaeologists have determined that as well as having a naturally navigable channel next to its ancient harbour, a further artificial channel appears to have been dug to expedite trade. 12
In the ancient world, the Mediterranean Sea was their equivalent of a superfast motorway. All their greatest cities, including Constantinople, Rome and Athens, were either on the coast or on rivers with easy access to it. The Heracleion finds will add tremendous depth to our understanding of the ancient world — not least because, among the discoveries, there are perfectly preserved steles (inscribed pillars) decorated with hieroglyphics. Translated, they will reveal much about the religious and political life in this corner of ancient Egypt. It was a similar inscription on the Rosetta Stone — discovered in the Nile Delta town of Rosetta in 1799 by a French soldier, and now in the British Museum — that cracked the code of hieroglyphics in the first place. And like the Rosetta Stone, those steles found beneath the waters of Aboukir Bay are inscribed in Greek and Egyptian, too. Who knows how many more archaeological gems will be uncovered at Heracleion? It appears that Heracleion faded in importance in the later classical period, eclipsed by its neighboring city of Alexandria, which became the capital of Egypt in 312BC. Still, Heracleion lingered on, later under Roman control, until it slipped into its watery grave some time in the 6th or 7th century AD. What a thrilling discovery we have on our hands now that the sea has, 1,500 years later, given up one of its greatest secrets. Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2336723/Ancient-Egyptian-city-lost-1-200-years-begins-revealsecrets.html#ixzz2XY0YD3Oq Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
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Make your own Natural toothpaste Fluoride Free and it make 3 months worth of toothpaste. This is a great recipe it only calls for a few ingredients.
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Mint Oil Tea Tree Oil
Coconut Oil
Baking Soda
Ingredients 4 tbsp. of Coconut Oil 3 tbsp. of Baking Soda 2 tbsp. Of Mint oil or cinnamon oil 1 tbsp. of tea tree oil
Tip: Tea Tree Oil, when used as a mouth wash, acts as a natural cure for bad breath, oral candidiasis, gingivitis, plaque, and inflamed gums. It also kills mouth bacteria prior to dental surgery and also reduces mouth irritation that is often caused by dental procedures. Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 15
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InstructIons‌.
Support other entrepreneur's! Buy Black! Mix all ingredients until a smooth paste forms, then let mixture sit in the refrigerator for 10 minutes so it can firm up. Remove from the frig and start brushing
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Vegan Mexican Lasagna Prep: 20 minutes Bake: 65 minutes 12 Servings Ingredients 1 pack of veggie crumbles
Send Natural Woman Your Recipes They may be in our next issue!!
2 Cans (16 ounces) organic refried beans 1 cans (4 ounces) chopped green chilies 3 tbsp. Cumin 3tbsp. Coriander 1 jar of salsa 2 packs veggie shred cheese 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro 1/2 chopped red onion 1 pack of soft tortillas Directions Cook veggie crumbles in olive oil in a large skillet cook on low until crumbles brown add onions seasonings and 1/2 of cilantro. Pre heat the oven to 385 degrees. Grease a baking pan with olive oil then layer the pan with tortilla wraps, refried beans, crumble
Send all recipes to asknaturalwoman@gmail.com
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Health One of the most valuable super foods on earth and nature’s most refreshing drinks is Coconut water. Consumed worldwide, coconut water is packed with a variety of health benefits. Coconut water is the purest liquid second only to water itself To beat the tropical summer thirst nothing can be better than coconut water. It is a natural refreshing beverage that is excellent for electrolyte replenishment. In summers a person loses a considerable amount of water due to perspiration. Coconut water contains a good amount of electrolyte- potassium, thus it can replenish the electrolyte composition in body fluids. Coconut water is better than packed or fresh fruit juices, sodas and energy drinks as it’s not adulterated with preservatives or artificial sweeteners .So stay hydrated with coconut water this summer
Drinking coconut water can also aid in losing weight as it is low in fat, cholesterol and chlorides. It reduces food cravings and keeps a person feeling full.
It is excellent drink for diabetics as it is good in nutrients required by diabetics to keep their sugar levels in control.
The risk of kidney stones is greatly reduced because of the presence of minerals, potassium and magnesium in coconut water. Tender coconut fluids acts as a natural diuretic because it has properties that tend to increase urine production and flow. Urologists around the world recommend that kidney stone sufferers should drink coconut water every alternate day to gradually reduce their stone size for easy elimination.
Loaded with vital nutrients, coconut water is a very good source of B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pyridoxine, and folates. It is rich in amino acids, enzymes, dietary fiber, vitamin C and minerals such as potassium, magnesium and manganese .It is also very beneficial as it has anti viral and anti bacterial properties.
Coconut water works wonders for your skin too. Researches show that coconut water have cytokinins which are beneficial for anti aging-effects. When applied to acne, spots, wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite and eczema it clears up the skin giving you youthful looking smoother skin. It can be used as a light moisturizer if you have oily skin. In addition to the benefits to the skin it also helps in repairing and growth of nails and smooth hair.
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Full Body Detox by Dhealth Store Dhealthstore.com is the exclusive owner of Djehuty’s ORIGINAL Full Body Detox, created by master herbalist Djehuty Ma’at-Ra in November 1999. Djehuty’s famous Full Body Detox is the premiere and quintessential all-natural, safe and sane, and effective herbal cleansing regimen that cleanses all major eliminative channels and auxiliary organs in the body giving your body the necessary refreshing and rebooting it needs, just like a computer. The common results of most people after performing Djehuty’s Famous Full Body Detox include but are not limited to: more resilient skin and complexion, weight reduction/release (10-30 pounds), enhanced energy levels, enhanced and clearer sense of feeling and thinking, a more positive outlook on life, enhanced willpower, enhanced immunity throughout the year, more normalized and regulated body functions, regularity of bowel movements, eradication of cravings (especially sugar, junk food, etc.), improved and enhanced circulation and improved and enhanced libido.
http://www.dhealthstore.com/full-body-detox-capsules.html
The Momma Organic 21 Day non– hybrid food & herbal detox Essence of Vitality
The Chef Ahki 21 day food cleanse & herbal detox program is designed around the core belief that the body does not run on food. The body runs on electricity. Essence of Vitality is an all natural herbal tonic derived from an ancient formula which dates back to the Ghana Empire. This powerful Ayurvedic tonic is made of 100% organic, non hybrid herbs which combine to form the ultimate liver cleanse and blood purifier. www.chefahki.com
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Natural Body Whole Body System Cleanse Created by Natural healer Azizah Nubia this cleanse can be purchased as a 7 , 14, or 21 day cleanse. This 4 system formula was created to eliminate toxins and parasites, purify the blood, restore organs, enhance mind power, increases energy, increase sex drive and aid in weight loss. The system consist of 3 herbal teas or capsules, activated charcoal, recipes book, and guide. www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com
21 day Full Body Detox by Queen Afua Queen Afua’s 21 Day Purification Detox is a system that has been clinically proven to enhance wellness for those who are struggling with diseases or disorders, those interested in making the transition from a flesh based to a plant based diet and those who are well and want to take preventative measures to increase their levels of wellness. Queen is dedicated to rejuvenating the body by using foods as medicines and her wellness formulas along with the private and group consultations help clients overcome diabetes, heart disease, fibroids tumors, infertility, prostate challenges, obesity, fatigue, lowered self-esteem, and Post Relationship Stress Disorders.
Learn how Natural Woman Magazine can review your product. Just visit our website.
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Breathing is life. It is one of our most vital functions. One of the Five Principles of Yoga is Pranayama or Breathing Exercise which promotes proper breathing. In a Yogic point of view, proper breathing is to bring more oxygen to the blood and to the brain, and to control Prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama Yoga also goes hand in hand with the Asanas. The union of these two Yogic Principles is considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body.
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Breathing is important for two basic reasons. It is the only means of supplying our bodies and its various organs with oxygen which is vital for our health. Breathing is one of the ways to get rid of waste products and toxins from our body.
What's Wrong with the Way We Breathe? Our breathing is too shallow and too quick. We are not taking in sufficient oxygen and we are not eliminating sufficient carbon dioxide. As a result, our bodies are oxygen starved, and a toxic build-up occurs. Every cell in the body requires oxygen and our level of vitality is just a product of the health of all the cells. Shallow breathing does not exercise the lungs enough, so they lose some of their function, causing a further reduction in vitality. Animals which breathe slowly live the longest; the elephant is a good example. We need to breathe more slowly and deeply. Quick shallow breathing results in oxygen starvation which leads to reduced vitality, premature ageing, poor immune system and a myriad of other factors.
As we go through life, these bad breathing habits we picked up become part of our lives. Unless we do something to reverse these habits, we can suffer permanent problems. The good news is that these are reversible. The bad news is that before we can change these habits, we should recognize and accept that our behavior needs to be changed. This means that we see for ourselves the benefits of good Breathing Techniques. Certainly, Yoga is not the only way to cope with stress and the resultant drop of oxygen supply in the brain brought on by constricted breathing. Quitting smoking, taking a coffee break, going to the restroom, or a good laugh may all result into some readjustment of constricted breathing patterns. These can be thought of as "mini yoga", we can benefit by taking or seeking more breaks, trips or jokes. But people whose occupations continue to be highly stressful, something more will be needed. Deep Breathing Exercises and stretching of muscles, especially those primarily concerned with controlling inhalation and exhalation, should be sought. Participation in active sports will also be useful. Going for a walk is very good. For those experiencing restricted breathing at night, morning exercises should be actively pursued.
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Interviewed by Aziazh Nubia
Dr. Robbin Alston extends her yoga style beyond the studio and targets female African American readers. With her new book The Art of Feeling Good: The Power of Ase Yoga. Sitting down to talk with Dr. Alston was a real treat she is very inspiring and has a real passion to share the healing powers of yoga to our community. Yoga is apart of our culture as African people and through her work she will make sure we remember. As master of a yoga studio and a longtime practitioner, Alston’s experience with yoga is compelling and aids her mission to bring yoga to those who might otherwise bypass it. “The perception becomes I can’t do the poses, so I can’t do yoga,” she says. “The Art of Feeling Good” dispels that myth with emphasis on thought, communication, relating and activating readers’ vital energy centers. “Women have endured a history of subjugation and limitation,” she says, “but African-American women endured a history of enslavement, rape, torture, lynching and dehumanization. It continues to affect how we see ourselves.” Alston’s intent is to introduce a “… healing practice that respects and responds to our diverse direct experiences in this world. Alston believes that readers will discover in her book “… a feeling of authenticity, awareness and inner power to overcome their challenges in life through a daily practice of Ase Yoga. I want people to realize that yoga is just not about poses, but indeed a practice in healthy living. I want them to see that my personal life speaks to the power of Ase.” Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 31
“In life, obstacles such as personal challenges, dis-ease, stressor, abuse, changes in life, grief, anger, fear, lifestyle choices, toxic relationships, addictions, traumas, earlier childhood experiences, past life circumstances, our thoughts and of course, the quality of our breath can block our energy, and challenge our expression of Àse. When that happens, we often speak of surviving rather than living, trying instead of doing, can't instead of can, stress instead of peace, sickness instead of health. Unfortunately, over the years, we accept this as a way of existing until we wake-up.” To re-center ourselves, we must let go of experiences and situations that that do not serve us. By letting go, gradually we re-gain our balance, and our natural flexibility. Most importantly, we connect with who we really are, rather than who we've become. Àse Yoga awakens us to the enormous potential we have to change our lives, so we can transform our lives. By practicing Àse Yoga, we synchronize our poses with rhythms and vibrations to comfortably move our bodies to enliven the energy within our cellular body, we eat to nurture and nourish our cells, we connect with our creative energy for a journey into self-healing, self-awareness and self-actualization. In essence, we infuse our body mind and spirit with power to achieve the full expression of Àse. Dr. Alston earned a B.A degree in psychology from LaSalle University, and Masters in Education and Ph.D. from Temple University. She is the founder and owner of Àse Yoga Studios and Tea Room in Philadelphia. Blending personal experiences, her training as psychologist and yogini, she has created a unique healing style that emphasizes authenticity and restoration To Learn more about Dr. Robbin Alston or to purchase her book please visit her website at http://www.aseyoga.com/
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Meet the Owner: Isis Swink “I am a master alchemist who mixes her own Shea butter. Shea butter is a nut harvested in Africa that is well known for its healing properties. My company is call B.O.S.S. for blessed, organic, spiritual and saged. We create our butters to be all natural, holistic and perfect for sensitive skin, psoriasis, eczema, dry skin and moisturizing. I need help to move our business to the next level including, purchasing products (Shea butter, essential oils, containers, etc) to supply retailers like Whole Foods, to extend my product line (Sea salt scrubs, natural body washes) and for marketing. My family and I appreciate your support and please look for our products on a shelf near you !! “
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Feng Shoe The feet of a woman should be comfortable in her shoes; cramped feet and bent toes convert positive energy of the soul to negative energy of the sole. – From the Book of Feng Shoe The four elements I always wondered why television shows and movies portrayed that “women love shoes” persona. But after learning that choosing the correct shoe can encourage good fortune, a propitious lifestyle, love, wealth, and good health. I now understand why powerful women love great shoes. By placing well-made and fashionably appointed footwear on your feet, you can ensure the maximum flow of positive chi’ (life force) throughout your body
Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal. These elements in different combinations can make you feel either foot loose or lead you down the foot-path toward enlightenment. Wood Energy: These shoes tends to be comfortable, but ugly, enhances stability and growth. This energy is obtained from cork or wooden soles. A good example of this type of shoe is a Swedish clog. Do not wear wood shoes on cobblestone 34
streets or on uneven pavement. Do wear them on muddy rural paths. Fire Energy: Fire shoes enhance sexiness and creativity. Fire energy reigns supreme in shoes made of satin or peau de soie. Considering wearing such shoes when you have an important business meeting. Wear them on a first date or when meeting your internet lover for the first time‌. You might be too hot to handle. Earth Energy: Earth shoes calms and renews the spirit. This energy is gathered by wearing shoes made of cotton, leather or any other natural fabric. Metal Energy: Metal shoes give the wearer strength, and are very powerful. It is best utilized as an enhancement, such as buckles and designs made of metal thread. Do not wear shoes of unnatural materials. In other words, don’t wear plastic shoes. Plastic is an artificial substance made of long polymer chains. This allows chi to enter the shoe, but the complexity of the atomic structure of the plastic blocks it from exiting the shoe and traveling upward to your center. Too much trapped energy causes feet to swell and to exude moisture and bromhydrosis (stink foot). Shoe Styles
Shoe Styles & Colors Dress shoes are very special. They are the apotheosis of female energy (yin) designed to gather male energy (yang). Designed correctly and made the right materials and colors, they are very powerful shoes. Care must be exercised in choosing them. The following guidelines should help in choosing the proper color for your dress shoes: Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 35
White: should be used for dress shoes only when all planets are aligned correctly and the seasons are just right. White can also be used in an athletic shoe. The blending of all colors in white maximizes physical fitness and performance.
It is vitally important that shoes be stored properly. Simply throwing them into the closet, or leaving them lying around, will cause them to lose their chi gathering abilities. Therefore, shoes need their own special storage spaces.
Black: Is the perfect color to attract (suck in) all types Shoe Boxes of energy. With no color to augment or detract from Shoes must never be boxed after you purchase them. the energy flow, chi flows unfiltered into the wearer. The box no matter what its made of, blocks energy in Red: To attract men and their fiery yang essence. the shoe from escaping. There have been reports (so Like moths to a flame, males (proprlled by their yang far unsubstantiated) of red, high-heeled dress shoes energy) are drawn to bright, shiny objects. Red being kept too long in shoe boxes and exploding. shoes can have this effect even if unseen ( if tucked Shoe Armoires under a bar stool, for example). Common sense would imply that bringing them into open view (for These are usually made of pressed wood or cardboard example, by crossing your legs) could only increase and designed to store shoes in your closet. While their impact. Thus, if you find yourself wearing red roomier than shoe boxes, and made of natural shoes (after coming out of the trance-like state that (though highly processed and unrecognizable) materioften attends the choosing of the shoe), you are als, they are not recommended because, again, they highly likely, almost certain, to have a good day (or block the energy of the shoes. night). The perfect environment The correct color, when coordinated to specific outfit can enhance the flow of energy throughout the entire body. This can lead to facial flush, witty repartee, and good posture.
Devout followers of Feng Shoe own lots of shoes. Therefore, the shoes must have a room of their own. A spare bedroom is excellent for this purpose; a den will do as well. Do not however, utilize, the basement, Feng Shoe Tip: Shoe of multi-colored stripes or diag- attic, or the garage. There’s so much yang (male) energy in those places that it could upset the finely onal patterns scatters energy. tuned energy balance in your shoes. Shoe Storage
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Miami Beach, FL, June 24, 2013 – Film Life’s 17th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), wrapped an engaging five days, June 19 – 23, of substantive program of diverse films, industry panels and educational workshops and events yesterday. Celebrating 10 years in Miami Beach, the Festival was created to support the promotion of diversity within the film and television industry, both in front of and behind the camera. The Festival drew to a close with the ABFF Awards Presentation where this year’s film and talent competition winners were revealed.
The five-day celebration was heavily supported by Hollywood’s top actors and was led by this year’s Celebrity Ambassador Omari Hardwick. Spike Lee, Robert Townsend, Bill Duke, Nia Long, Derek Luke, Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Nick Cannon, Morris Chestnut, Boris Kodjoe, David E. Talbert, Roger Bobb, Sanaa Lathan, Anthony Anderson, Terrence Jenkins, Shaun Robinson, Reggie Bythewood, George Tillman, Jr.and Kevin Hart all participated in lively panel discussions and other Festival events. This year’s ABFF was also attended by Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade, Udonis Haslem and Lebron James, the 2013 NBA Finals champions. 37
At the height of the Festival, Regina King, known for her charisma and dedication to her craft, was the very special featured guest of one of ABFF’s marquee panels, "A Conversation With...," presented by American Airlines. King discussed her Hollywood journey, the arc of her ambitious career and exchanged advice and wisdom with festivalgoers.
The ABFF Awards Presentation recognizes and rewards filmmakers, writers and actors for excellence through its Grand Jury Prizes and Talent Competitions, supported by major corporations. ABFF founder and CEO of Film Life, Inc., Jeff Friday, presented the awards, along with corporate partners and filmmakers. In what was an emotional event, winners shared intimate stories about their personal journeys and diligent efforts to pursue their craft through moving acceptance speeches, which emphasized the importance of the American Black Film Festival’s mission to promote Black film and to expose Black filmmakers.
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“It is deeply rewarding to be able introduce new storytellers and artists from all over the world and watch them ascend from here, through connections they make or awards they receive at ABFF. Our ultimate goal is to be the most direct pipeline to Hollywood for Black talent,” says Jeff Friday, ABFF founder and CEO of Film Life, Inc.
ABFF guests were treated to a first look and discussion of Malcolm D. Lee’s The Best Man Holiday, a follow-up to his highly celebrated, cult classic film, The Best Man. The panel, moderated by Access Hollywood’s Shaun Robinson and sponsored by Comcast/NBCUniversal, featured Malcolm D. Lee, writer and director, and multi-talented cast members, Sanaa Lathan, Morris Chestnut and Nia Long, joined one another to relish in their respective accomplishments since they were all onscreen together fourteen years ago. Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 39
As if the ABFF weekend could not get any better, one of the most anticipated events of the week was the coveted Closing Night Screening of Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain the concert film that captures one of the fast-talking, highenergy performances on Hart’s comedy tour of the same name. Hart’s celebrity friends, 2013 NBA Champions Dwyane Wade and LeBron James of the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls’ Rip Hamilton, rapper Flo Rida, actress Claudia Jordan, SpikeLee, music mogul Irv Gotti, Jeff Clanagan of Codeblack Films and actor Michael K. Williams filled the red carpet prior to the screening and showed support to ABFF and Kevin Hart.
About The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is a five-day retreat and international film market dedicated to strengthening the Black filmmaking community. Established in 1997, the core mission of the ABFF is to promote cultural diversity within the motion picture industry. Through its film showcases and special contests, it annually introduces the top echelon of emerging artists to the film and television industry. 40
“This Is Fatherhood” Grammy award winning hip hop artist Lecrea and World Champion basketball player Dwayne Wade joined forces for the launch of the National campaign “This Is Fatherhood”. The campaign will begin with the nations first “Fatherhood Challenge”, where contestants will submit a song, photo, video or an essay that answers the question, “What does fatherhood mean to me.” The call to accept submissions started May 6th on the “thisisfatherhood.com” website. Participants will compete for cash prizes and a trip to Washington D.C. and an array of pre-eminent nonprofit and media organizations. The Fatherhood Challenge is one of the first initiatives of its kind that takes a preemptive approach toward the fatherless crisis by creating awareness of the issue among youth and adults alike through utilizing the power of social media and emerging technology. “ This Is Fatherhood” is a cohort of cultural influencers and organizations devoted to restoring America’s commitment to healthy fatherhood.
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Kendrick Lamar The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) honored Top Dawg Entertainment rapper-songwriter Kendrick Lamar with the ASCAP Vanguard Award during its 26th annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. The invitation only event will took place on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, California. ASCAP VP of Rhythm & Soul Membership Nicole George— Middleton commented: “ Kendrick is one of the most exciting acts in the rap game today, and we know big things are in store for his career. It’s no wonder that he’s been dubbed ‘the new king of the West Coast’ by rap veterans like Snoop Lion.” ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards will also honor eight-time Grammy Award-winner Usher with its Golden Note Award, as well as the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP songs on the 2012 R&B/Hip-Hop Song, Top Rap Song and Top Gospel Song. The evening will also, feature performances by several award-winning songwriters/performers.
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By Azizah Nubia I was 12 years old when Lauryn Hill’s first solo album “The Mis-education of Lauryn Hill” released. I think I played that album over a million times that year. With songs like “Lost Ones” and “Every Ghetto Every city”, Lauryn Hill’s music has shaped me into the Goddess I am today, her music put me on a path of enlightenment at a young age. Her music still has a major influence today among our youth, when I talk to teenage girls who recently been unplugged from this illusion we call “life”. They too have listened to the words of Lauryn Hill. She has impacted generations and influenced the hoods around the world to change our minds, our hearts, and to see the light that shines in us. Well that’s what
I get from my sistars craft. So today when I see the attack that has been thrown at one of the anchors of our communities worldwide. It angers me, not to the point of violence, but it angers me to speak out against this injustice. Too many of us are silent and because of that you are not free. Lauryn was not silent she spoke out against this evil. She had the courage to shed some light on how the world really is, she used the power of love in spite of it all to help heal our hearts. These are the things that her musical gifts has brought to the world. Now I know there are some out 44
there who may say “she should’ve paid her taxes and she wouldn’t be in this mess”. My answer to that is, no one knows why she got into this situation. It may look a certain way from our point of view, but in reality we only know what the media wants us to know. So why judge? If anything this whole situation in my eyes are just adversity that our dear sistar must learn and grow from in order to move her along her path fulfilling her highest destiny. In her open letter to the public before she had to turn herself in to fulfill her 3 month sentence for tax evasion (even though she paid nearly 1 million dollars towards her unpaid taxes). Lauryn left us with a powerful message, “Much of my music, if not all of it, is about Love, a therapeutic resolve created in response to the lack of messages encouraging people like me toward free moral agency. Helping to ameliorate this condition has never been addressed through the political arena alone. It is a sacrificial work that doesn’t simply happen between the hours of 9 to 5 or Monday through Friday, but when inspiration leads us to avail ourselves for the Truth that needs to be said. Unlike the system too often contrarily demonstrates, we believe that people can be and should be helped, and that trauma should not be criminalized but acknowledged, healed and dealt with. This takes awareness, sensitivity and a level of freedom in my opinion the system lacks. And if we don’t know or understand how to do it, then we humbly refer to a higher authority.”
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Many media outlets looked at this letter as an “Oh she is just pulling the race card” because she mentioned “The concept of reverse racism is flawed, if not absolutely ridiculous. Most, if not all of the negative responses from people of color toward white people, are reactions to the hatred, violence, cruelty and brutality that they were shown by white people for centuries. Much of the foundation of the modern world was built on the forced free labor of black peoples. The African Slave Trade, the institution of slavery, colonialism, its derivative systems, and the multiple holocausts throughout history, where whites used race as the defining reason to justify their oppression, conquest, and brutal treatment of non-white peoples, are how race became such a factor to begin with.” She also goes saying “Much of the world is still reeling from the abuses of Imperialist selfishness, misunderstanding, ignorance and greed. Black people remain in many ways a shattered community, disenfranchised, forcefully removed from context and still caged in, denied from making truly independent choices and experiencing existential freedom. Their natural homes, just like their natural selves, raped and pillaged of the resources and gifts God has given to them. Interpreted through someone else’s slanted lens and filter, they remain in many ways, misrepresented. Taxation without proper representation, might I remind you, was the very platform of protest that began the Revolutionary War, which gained this country its independence from England. Anger is not only the natural response to the abuse of power, but is also appropriate when there is no real acknowledgment
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of these abuses, or deep, meaningful and profound change. If we took all of what we deem horrible regarding the criminal abuses that black people have committed over this country’s history, and add it all up, it still does not compare to the hundreds of years of terrorism, violent domination, theft, rape, abuse, captivity, and beyond that black people have suffered under the ideologies and systems of white supremacy, racism, and slave based paradigms. I say this only to say that abuse unresolved begets or creates abuse. How then does the chief offender become the judge? Might does not necessarily mean right. Right is right. People forcibly reduced to sub-human existences, so that they behave in sub-human ways, helps a system to justify itself or feel less guilty about its blood saturated foundation and gross crimes against humanity. People, like plants, grow where the light is. When you enclose a plant and limit its light source, it will bend itself toward the light, for the light is necessary for its survival. This same thing happens to people locked in communities where little light and little opportunity is allowed them, survival then forces them to twist and/ or bend toward the only way of escape.’ Lauryn if your reading this know that Natural Woman Magazine supports you 100% if it wasn’t for you NWM probably would not exist. Your words were light that shed through our community that showed me away out and for that I am grateful. Take this time to grow and come back to us more powerful than before. I pray that the universe and the ancestors watch over you in your time of confinement. Ashe’
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Music
MD & Cobalt Blue By: Azizah Nubia
MD & Cobalt Blue are one of Music City’s premiere reggae bands to go see perform. Their smooth mind, body, and spirit vibes will leave you feeling like you have arrived on cloud nine. I have had the pleasure of experiencing the Cobalt Blue experience when they opened for Grammy Nominee N’Dambi back in 2011 and many times around the city of Nashville. So when I got the opportunity to visit and talk with the group during their weekly rehearsal I was sure I would be in for a real treat. And indeed I was, entering into the group’s studio/ Lead vocal MD place of residence. I felt the presence of some of the most influential energies that have touched this planet, you could feel the magic that has, been, and will be created by this incredible band. Influenced by the sounds of Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill, and a hint of Nas and Damien Marley MD & Cobalt Blue have an original sound that can’t be copied. Band members consist of Leader MD Matthew McCoy (vocal, electric guitar, keys) Isis Swink (vocal), Ronald “Doc” Hayes ( vocal, bass) Owl “O.B.” Boy (Drum), Ahmed Aziz (keys), and Jameel Aziz (keys). “We want to raise the consciousness amongst the people”, Doc replied after I asked the group what are their overall intentions of their craft. MD & Cobalt blue are by far the most entertaining acts the Music City has to offer. To learn more about the group or to listen to their music please click here. Natural Woman Magazine www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com 49
Intuition Aroma By: Azizah Nubia Kimberly is the owner and creator of one of the most creative and impressive holistic business I have ever heard about. Intuition Aroma for the Soul, LLC was established in 2006 as an aromatherapy studio that specialized in aromatherapy and bath & body products. The cool thing about the business is that Kimberley creates product for your specific intuitive needs.
Today, Intuition… Aroma for the Soul, is a studio dedicated to the intuitive arts. Current opportunities include Intuitive Consulting, Intuitive Coaching & Development, Interpretive Readings, Intuitive Energy Healing, and Aromatherapy Evaluation & Personal Blending. With 20 years of experience Kimberly has developed skills such as Reiki, the use of crystals in healing, understanding wisdom that can be found in oracle cards, and the guidance to be
found in numerology. “I was guided to mentors that modeled the intuitive lifestyle with grace and to obtain my Masters in Holistic Wellness which had been my dream for 25 years. But, most importantly, I began to learn to trust the guidance of the Great Creator in all that I do and, over time, have learned to “let go and let God”. “It has been an exciting journey and since then Intuition has evolved to embody my dream of working not only with aromatherapy to improve the quality of life, but also working with the whole person on the physical, mental, emotional, & spiritual planes thus allowing one to take back responsibility for the quality of their life. My own life experience has made me uniquely qualified to work with people on tough issues that may have to be addressed in order to change their reality. I have found it to be a process of changing ones perception to the desires 50
that are congruent with their heart & soul in order to change their reality in everyday life. Today, Intuition‌ Aroma for the Soul, is a studio dedicated to the intuitive arts. Current opportunities include Intuitive Consulting, Intuitive Coaching & Development, Interpretive Readings, Intuitive Energy Healing, and Aromatherapy Evaluation & Personal Blending. To learn more about Intuition Aroma or to make an appointment with Kimberely please visit her website at http://intuitionaroma.com/
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Couture Fashion
Couture Fashion
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Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
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Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
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Natural Woman Magazine are looking for 6 new faces to be the 2014 Natural Woman Magazine Models. To enter visit www.asknaturalwoman.webs.com
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Born in Belgium and raised in the Ivory Coast, Kuame rapidly developed a contemplative gaze on women in his family, particularly his mother. He claims he was fascinated by feminine grace, elegance and beauty. In 2006, while he was living in France, Kuame merged his artistic talents with his passion and founded his own line Elie Kuame Couture. Since then, he’s dedicated his designs to enhance women’s beauty with elegant, stunning, striking, and breathtaking attires. Elie Kuame crafted his art in France, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, China, and has demonstrated his talent in Gabon, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and French West Indies.
Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
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Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
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By Shanell
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The ultimate in African wedding gowns and ethnic bridal dresses was on display in New York City during the annual bridal showcase that was hosted by Circle of Sisters and WBLS Radio. The guest brides appeared to be in awe over the display of colorfully designed bridal gowns. One may think, once you've seen one white wedding dress, you've seen them all. However, these are no ordinary wedding gowns. On display was the launch of the 'Queen of the Brides' collection by TeKay Designs. TeKay Designs presented wedding gowns and groom's attire that represents matriarchs from ancient civilizations. Brides who want an event that's to be remembered for generations invest in a theme that's centered around the bridal gown. And no theme is more compelling than that of your heritage. Each runway model displayed cultural bridal attire and ethnic gowns inspired by the ancient thrones of Africa.
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Send Natural Woman Magazine your Natural Hair photos and you may be featured in our next issue. Send your pictures to asknaturalwoman@gmail.com
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Now Accepting Resume’s for the following positions Journalist Graphic Designers Photographers Videographer Stylist
If you are fun and creative, and you love the entertainment business Natural Woman Magazine is the place for you. Some positions are “ work from home” send resume’s to asknaturalwoman@gmail.com
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Think Big By: Azizah Nubia
"what's felt on the inside, reflects what's on the outside", is my philosophy Why do people fail? Why does it seem so hard for others to reach their goals, but for others it easy? Is it because of race, intelligence, social status, money, or sex? No it is something that separate the great from the weak and that is the power to think BIGGER... the power to have complete freedom in your MIND. Thinking BIG is what separate the the successful from the "ordinary"... I do not care how many degrees you have, or how many facts you know... if you cannot think big and positively you will never reach success. Now when I say success I am not speaking of just material means, I am talking about all kinds of success from relationships, health, self development... success can mean anything. Whatever goals you have placed before, you can reach them and more if you truly understand how powerful your mind really is. If you want greatness you must feel it. We create every minute in our lives. You have complete control of your thoughts, why not use them to create the life you want. Stop using them to create your struggles... Those
who reach success are those who truly believe in their ability to reach their goals. If you see that you are unsuccessful in reaching your goals you have to start believing in yourself. "Every
event that occurs in the quantum level is at the speed of light (note: light travels at a speed of 299,792 kilometers per second) at this speed, it is beyond the capability of our senses to process everything in detail. This phenomenon creates an illusion that makes us perceive thing as solid even though in reality they really aren't. So what is the reality? For that, it could be said that the entire physical world that you are in including yourself in is made up of nothing but energy that is vibrating at different frequencies. What makes the difference between you and me or the chair is the difference frequency that each of us are vibrating. Again, I know this is hard to accept but yet this is the truth. Everything that’s visible in the entire universe
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is a manifestation of the energy and information." How this relates to the law of attraction? The Law of Attraction is a metaphysical New Thought belief that "like attracts like", that positive and negative thinking bring about positive and negative physical results, respectively. The Creator gave us the right to have full control of our minds. when you can control your mind you can control what direction you want to go in life.If Quantum Physics states that everything in the universe is made up of energy including you and I. Everything that we encounter in life is nothing more then energy at a higher or lower frequency. Our thoughts generate our emotions and our emotions are nothing more than energy or vibration. When we send out vibrations on a low or high frequency, we will attract whatever experience we thought of at the time we sent out the vibration. We create our reality every single day. So look around you.... What are you creating? what is blocks you from From achieving your goals? What blocks you from achieving your goals is low vibration... negative emotions. We are capable of reaching all of our goals,..... but what stops people from reaching them? We stop ourselves!!!!!
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Money
Getting Rich is so Simple:
Russell Simmons tips for Entrepreneurs • Do a business you believe in: "I'm an entrepreneur who is moved by passion, but not numbers. I am constantly being approached with business ideas that will make money, but if I don't believe in the business, I won't do it," said Simmons. • Be passionate about what you do. • "Stay on your hustle," said Simmons. "Don't quit." • Give away your business products and services for free. "If you are a good giver, you will be great getter," Simmons said. "The less you need, the more you attract." • Find businesses that lift people up. • Don't worry about the results. Focusing on results distracts the entrepreneur, from building his or her business, said Simmons. • "Quiet the mind," said Simmons. The entrepreneur who has a still mind is the entrepreneur who can do anything, he said
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Money
Before you Start Banking By: Ronald Williams Purchase Your Copy Today Click Here
What inspired your book? R.W. I have always worked in low income neighborhoods, and saw people who didn't make a lot of money, but spent a lot of money to obtain the things they want and need. So my passion for writing this book is to become a resource to improve financial knowledge in the community. If the community improves with this knowledge so will peoples lives. What will people get from the book? R.W. My book is more intense than most books. My book is more then writing a check and how to balance a check book. I focus more on banking concepts and methodologies . I want to get into your mind so you will understand financial decision making before you start banking. Is this a good resource for entrepreneurs? R.W. Yes, because becoming an entrepreneur is not as easy as it seems. You going to need access to capital , loans and in order to obtain these things you are going to need credit. Just one more thing to learn before you start banking. Give us 3 tips of advice to help our readers be on a better financial path? R.W. One ask as many questions as you can. Two do just trust anyone to handle your money for you, always have your own financial check list. Three do not necessarily think if you have millions of dollars you have enough money. The more money you make , more people will want to take. Manage you money properly or you will loose it. Overall what do you wish to accomplish with this book? R.W. I want to get the book in front of as many people as possible. I want to do presentation for schools, churches, and events. The best things we can offer to each other is love and knowledge . Both of those are free you just have to accept it. I want to give this knowledge out especially to my community . Lack of knowledge is the last thing you want to have when it comes to finances. 69
Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
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Ebony Evans She is a fashion major and aspiring model from Cincinnati, Ohio. Her goals are to be on the runway. “When your on the runway your alterego can come out, it’s a great outlet for expression” Her words of advice: Do what feels right and surround yourself around positivity for positive things to happen. Find her on Facebook: Ebony “TopClass” Evans
Photography by Gidget Hunter Allen of GidgetIMAGES
Victoria Gaskins She is from Cincinnati, Ohio. A manager for a local beauty supply store chain around the city. She is in the works of opening her own weave repair restoration business. Ultimately I want to own my own beauty supply store online. Her Words of Advice: you are the only one who can make yourself happy, so never look for happiness outside of yourself. Find her on Facebook: Victoria Gaskin
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