Life in Balance - relaunch format

life in balance

redefine your thinking – one person can make a difference your free co py

ISSUE 7 Nove m b e r 0 9

02

news & innovations paper trails, winning words

04

design Forest creations, black chilli design, free fold furniture

06

living the goodness of G oedgedacht, project 90 x 2030

08

travel Pugh to swim Mount Everest, strange places, phantom forest

09

food & drink eating smart, zingy dressings five-minute food

12

products & wellness jeans & iron trees, clean cosmetics & giveaways

14

art & books books, Dave Matthews CD download, events and classifieds

PSPC [life in balance]march09 2/23/09 5:38 PM Page 1 C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY CMY

K

02 news & updates

welcome The C words about to be on everyone’s lips are ‘Climate Change’. In the lead up to the big meeting in Copenhagen at the end of the year and likely deadlocks in carbon emission agreements, we can at least exercise personal choice and begin at home by doing our bit to reduce our carbon footprint. One person can make a difference and two initiatives stand out in their bid to educate and motivate us all to do our bit for the planet. In the Living page you will read about Project 90 x 2030 and in books we review ‘Bending the Curve’ which is South Africa’s guide to tackling climate change. I’m surprised at how easy it has been to do what I can and how much (in a relatively short period of time) has been achieved in my home by composting, recycling and re-using items. I significantly have reduced what I throw away for collection and dumping in a landfill and growing seeds on my window sill brings me a daily reminder of nature’s magic as they strive to grow. By not buying bottled water or juice I have saved at least 100 bottles that may have ended up as landfills. Over a lifetime this will add up. We all have a carbon footprint and it won’t be any government that will alter an individual’s carbon footprint.

Personal responsibility develops when there is an active understanding of what can be done by one person to help ease the collective load on this fair planet we live on. melissa@lifeinbalance.co.za

our contributors Tara and Brad Hale started Wild Organic Foods five years ago. The company distributes organic fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Wendy Hardie started TV life at the BBC in London and is currently researching how our food is produced, for a possible TV series.

Si Ekin is a life coach whose mission is to help people to do what they say so they get what they want.

Sandy Barlow studied Fine Arts, and worked in the magazine industry as a journalist. She and her brother and a friend started Seattle Coffee Company 12 years ago.

Jean-Pierre Le Roux has studied health and nutrition for the last 23 years, with an emphasis on consciousness.

Publisher: Michael Beatham michael@lifeinbalance.co.za Editor: Melissa Baird melissa@lifeinbalance.co.za Assistant Editor and subscriptions: Michele Beatham michele@lifeinbalance.co.za Art director: Elinore de Lisle elinore@iafrica.com Production manager: Janine Weaver janine@lifeinbalance.co.za 021 481 1836 Printing: Printed using soya based inks on 100 gsm Triple Green, using biodegradable inks Cover photograph www.istockphoto.com © Life in Balance is published 10 times a year by Green Publishing (Pty) Ltd, 210 on Long Street, Cape Town, South Africa. Tel: 021 481 1836 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the publishers is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press, but subject to change. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited materials. It is assumed that any images taken from sources which are widely distributed, such as on the Internet, are in the public domain.

However, since such images are passed freely between sources such as websites, the original source is not always possible to trace. It is possible that copyrighted material has ended up being treated as public domain as a result.

If you see a graphic or image in this publication which is not public domain please contact Green Publishing.

Please recycle

distribution partners...

winning words

talking garbage

All that is required of entrants into the draws for our popular giveaways, generously sponsored by the companies concerned, is an email with the specific giveaway in the subject line.

Even so, many of the entries contain a message in the body.

Now, while winners are subject only to the luck of the draw, every so often I receive an entry that makes me consider, however briefly, awarding the prize based purely on the entertainment value of the message itself.

The following are just a few of the entries that have brought a smile to my day or had me laughing out loud. Enjoy.

the oily truth

The chocoholics were unanimous: - I too believe chocolate is good for the soul.

- A healthy one sure will be helpful.

- As a blatant ‘chocoholic’ I would love the opportunity of winning this prize As were the beer lovers: - I live in Jozi and you can’t get any JBB up here so would really like to win please.

- Please may I have some beer? Pretty please.

As a coffee lover I could identify with these: - Name: Coffee Connoisseur (or junkie) Religion: Double Macchiato - I love coffee!

Some enter all the giveaways: - Hi again…

- Here I am again!

Others are to the point: - Hi. Please pick me!

- August is my birth month. Blatant begging!

And finally, the appreciated compliments: - So delightful to see these kinds of publications. Thank you.

- I’ve just come across life in balance.

It’s great - full of upbeat green info and beautifully laid out - thanks.

Subscribe!

We give you the paper free of charge via our distribution partners and if all the copies are gone you can read it online at www.lifeinbalance.co.za.

Should you wish to receive a personal copy then please email janine@lifeinbalance.co.za. All you will be asked to do is pay for the postage costs to get it to you.

event review Getting on board the eco-journey

From the varied interdisciplinary presentations and high level of dialogue between audience and speakers, at least two facts were abundantly clear at the conclusion of the Santam Ecocentric Journey Conference, which took place in Cape Town from 15-17 September 2009. Sustainability is becoming a strategic necessity for business: participants were not preparing for the downside nor the upside of the green economy. The speed of this switch to a greener economy is a key driver of the future landscape for all businesses.

by michele beatham

Few of us are left unaffected when oil spills contaminate our oceans and beaches, harming wildlife and particularly coastal bird populations. But how many of us realise the risks posed by the used oil from vehicles?

It takes only one litre of used motor oil to contaminate one million litres of water, with potentially disastrous effects, not to mention the dangers posed by it seeping into the soil. Aside from the risks to wetlands, wildlife, and marine and freshwater organisms, human health is adversely affected. Used oil contains extremely harmful compounds which, besides other risks, can have carcinogenic properties.

One of the issues being tackled by the ROSE Foundation, a non-profit organisation that manages the effective collection, storage and recycling of used lubricating oil, is the oil used in commercial farming.

For instance, used oil is utilised by farmers as a cheaper alternative to wood preservative on fences and vineyard poles. It is also used on livestock and sprayed on dirt roads to control dust.

Raj Lochan, CEO of the ROSE Foundation, warns, “The used oil will eventually seep into the ground, contaminating the soil and water table and entering rivers and dams where the water is drawn for irrigation and drinking.”

The bad news is that spilled oil decomposes very slowly so it accumulates.

congrats! ... to our previous winners!

Elmarie Raymer won the Patron Tequila Hamper, Justin Leslie and Jason Burton each won Biofires and Yvonee Lariviere and Estelle Wessels each won a copy of “Answer is Simple” book & cards.

news flash The SABC have decided to take 50/50 off air till April 2010...and it might even not return at all. “This programme has helped to keep a check on many environmentally damaging developments and without it the potential for in-depth exposure of suspect actions by authorities and business people to exploit/ damage the environment will be seriously hampered.” Sign the petition at http://www.save5050.co.za/

big thought for the month...

“Within you right now is the power to do things you never dreamed possible. This power becomes available to you just as soon as you can change your beliefs.” - Dr. Maxwell Maltz (founder of Psycho Cybernetics)

The good news is that the ROSE Foundation is striving to change these practices. “ROSE has placed a priority on educating and creating awareness in the minds of the public and changing farming practices. Conversion to more sustainable agricultural practice is necessary both to preserve South Africa’s biodiversity and to ensure a future resource base,” says Lochan.

“We all share the responsibility of protecting our environment and keeping our waters safe.

It is ironic that in a water poor country such as South Africa, the very sector that relies on clean, fresh water the most is poisoning it! However it is never too late to change the way things are done and through combined efforts and energy, we can make a marked difference in the operating practices of many farms throughout SA.” “Recycling used oil allows us to continue to enjoy what many of us take for granted every day – clean, potable water,” concludes Lochan.

Information kindly supplied by ROSE. To find out more about the dangers of used oil, the work of the foundation and where to drop off your used oil, visit www.rosefoundation.org.za.

event review Ecospecifier launches in SA

Life in Balance attended the launch of Ecospecifier South Africa which is the first green building product verification system of its kind in Southern Africa. Ecospecifier will add product accreditation value to the fast growing green building industry and will aid builders in choosing materials and practices that are both eco friendly and sustainable.

Lizette Swanevelder manages EcoSpecifier as has a very long relationship with the built environment in South Africa and has helped to bring the greening principles of construction into almost every professional practice in the Western Cape.

Contact Lizette Swanevelder of Ecospecifier SA on 082 770 6552 or visit www.ecospecifier.co.za

The green team: Asa, Lizette, Lola, Tammy and Soraya.

news & updates 03

news & innovations

makes murky and potentially deadly water clean in just seconds.

Even better, a single, longlasting filter can clean 6 000 litres of water.

Read more or watch Michael’s presentation at www.lifesaver systems.com

City Council ‘Leeds’ the way

Earlier this year, Leeds City Council cut by half all bottled water points in its offices and was looking to make further cuts. Staff members now use a glass brought from home or recyclable cups and drink tap water.

The council claims it is saving more than £30 000 but says the decision was not solely financial, that the environmental factor is important and it was important they do everything possible to reduce waste. meat-free Thursdays

BANKING ON GLASS

The Glass Recycling Company, the national body responsible for increasing the recovery of waste glass for recycling has rolled out 700 new and improved glass banks. The redesigned banks have been installed at strategic sites throughout the country. An additional 120 will be installed in the upcoming months. These banks are in addition to the 550 banks already being utilised. While 204 00 tons of glass are recycled annually, a 38% increase since 2006, 550 000 tons still end up in landfills.

Make a difference – bank your glass. www.theglassrecyclingcompany.co.za

If only one person opted for one meatfree meal a week, they’d save 1 133kg of greenhouse gas emissions, 223m2 of land and a whopping 503 459 litres of water, and city workers in Ghent, a Flemish town near Brussels, have opted to do just this; Thursdays have been declared meatless days and even city-financed schools will offer a vegetarian menu every Thursday.

Namibia’s water shortage solution

Namibia’s water shortages are so severe that alternative water sources are vital and seawater desalination is seen as the number one solution for providing water to mines, and offering citizens at least some relief from the near-drought conditions in certain areas.

The desalination plant, to be built 30km north of Swakopmund for the combined Areva/Uramin Namibia uranium exploration project, should be completed by the end of the year.

South African-based company, Superwatt, will install four generators to provide independent electricity to the plant in the form of a 6MVA synchronised system.

Once the mine has been connected to Nampower, one generator will remain as back-up and three will be relocated to the mine itself.

it takes a village

A little town 90 miles southwest of Sydney voted in July to ban bottled water in order to reduce emissions associated with bottling and transporting water. Of the 400 residents of Bundanoon who turned up to vote, only two cast dissenting votes.

Free water fountains are to be installed to replace the bottled water.

The 5 000 city personnel received a free veggie city street map, a free vegetarian cooking brochure for professionals was sent to all 1 500 restaurants and cooking lessons for both professionals and individuals was offered.

This single, simple act not only improves the health of citizens but cuts their greenhouse gas emissions by 18%.

Corporate heroes

Big brands starting to do their bit and making changes towards ethical practices.

AVIS SAVES As a result of a R1,9 million investment in its water recycling programme at its three main depots, Avis estimates that they will save just under 100 million litres of water per annum. The project is just one of many undertaken at Avis, under the Avis Cares umbrella, which incorporates a 3-Pillar (Environment, Community and People) sustainability approach to its business practice.

FISHING ALLIANCE The 2nd September 2009 saw stakeholders across the fishing industry commit to working together to secure the future of seafood and marine ecosystems. WWF South Africa, together with I&J, Oceana, Sea Harvest and Viking, launched the Responsible Fisheries Alliance (RFA).

WATER NEUTRAL BEER 98.3% of the 155 litres of water it takes to produce 1 litre of beer is associated with crop cultivation and SAB Ltd & WWF are working with farmers to improve irrigation and yields. Also, SAB and Working for Water recently launched what is apparently the world’s first fully quantitative water neutral scheme, which allows SAB to monitor and reduce its operational consumption and offset the residual in projects that clear alien vegetation, thus releasing equivalent quantities of water back into natural aquatic ecosystems.

shark savers LIFE-SAVING BOTTLES

In the aftermaths of the Asian tsunami and hurricane Katrina, engineer Michael Pritchard watched helplessly as survivors waited for days for a simple drink of water.

The failure of aid agencies to surmount this basic challenge forced him to act.

The Lifesaver bottle may look like an ordinary sports bottle, but it hides an extremely advanced filtration system that

Planning needs to be Matched by Political Will By Lance Greyling, MP The last few weeks have seen the promulgation of the long awaited Green Paper on the National Planning Commission which will be headed up by the Minister in the Presidency Trevor Manuel.

As announced at the briefing, this Ministry will concern itself with longer term issues by formulating plans that look fifteen years into the future.

From an environmental perspective this is a welcome development, as environmental issues have always tended to be dealt with in a reactive way rather than being considered as a pivotal determinant of our country’s long term future. It was also welcome to hear the Minister refer to natural resource constraints such as water availability as special issues which his Ministry will

attempt to grapple with.

Although this Ministry currently exhibits some promise of ushering in a new era of planning for sustainable development it remains to be seen whether the current unsustainable plans of different government departments will be challenged. In particular, Eskom is currently making decisions that will lock us into a highly polluting energy future for the next forty years regardless of what plans this new Ministry might come up with in the future. It is also disappointing to see that Eskom has used its present financial woes as another excuse to simply jettison any plans that it did have for wind or solar power.

PSPC [life in balance]march09 2/23/09 5:38 PM Page 1

Lance is Chief Whip of the parliamentary caucus and the National Policy Convenor. Email: lance@id.org.za

life in balance proudly brought to you by Composite

Despite being vital for maintaining marine balance, shark populations worldwide continue to decrease, mainly due to over fishing. In Palau, President Toribiong declared its waters a National Shark Sanctuary and banned all commercial fishing of sharks; this despite calls earlier in the year to make Palau’s waters available to large fisheries.

Founder of the Palau Shark Sanctuary, Dermot Keane, has no doubt that the petition organised by Shark Savers played an important part in this legislation. As a result an e-card thank you campaign was recently launched to thank the President.

Visit www.sharksavers.org to send a card, read more about Shark Savers’ work worldwide, including South Africa, and sign their petition.

R60 million PET achievement

The PET plastic industry in South has injected R60 million into recycling, effectively doubling recycling tonnage in the past four years, and PETCO, the PET recycling company was largely instrumental in initiating these achievements.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY CMY

K

climate wise As a member of global insurance interest group Climate Wise, Santam is participating in and making its voice heard in the bigger picture of activism and action towards sustainable business practice and will participate in the forthcoming UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in November. Through events like the Ecocentric Journey Conference, more executives and organisations are urged to take action before it is too late.

15 Years in a Day Through sponsors such as Old Mutual and Nedbank, this year’s Do It Day on 18 September saw 3 862 South African join hands to paint, plant, clean, read, teach, share and empower communities. It contributed a staggering 30 896 volunteer hours – a combined total of 15 years! www.doitday.co.za Sustainable business practises do good Metrofile, an information and records management company, maintains a strong sustainability and outreach policy, including donating a 15-seater bus to the Paarl School for Neurally Handicapped Children. Also committed to the environment, they recycle waste at the all of their premises, including 650 tons of paper every month, and offer the same service to all clients.

04 design & innovation Rock Art: Ronel’s iconic hand-felted oversized pebbles

glass temple Wonder what to do with your empty beer bottles? Take some inspiration from these innovative Buddhists who built an entire temple from used Heineken and Thai Chang Beer bottles. Fifty years ago the Heineken Beer company looked at reshaping its beer bottle to be useful as a building block but that proved a bit tricky. It took a group of creative monks from Sisaket province in northern Thailand to show them that it could still be done as they took matters into their own hands. They have been collecting the bottles since 1983 and have used them as building materials. The bottles are used to create walls and they offer loads of natural light and are very easy to clean. Over one million bottles were collected to build the Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew temple and surrounding buildings in the complex. The more bottles the monks are able to re-use the more they can build. Wouldn’t it be incredible if bottles in South Africa could be used for a similar purpose?

the art of wool In 2005, textile designer Ronel Jordaan began researching using felt, the oldest form of fabric known to humankind, as a creative medium. Entirely self taught, she began turning fine gossamer thread into robust felted forms by patiently rubbing and coaxing threads of wool into shapes in nature that inspired her.

She went on to train a few women to help with her newly created home industry and her stunning, original and unique designs soon found a willing market – from South Africa to the US and Canada, the UK and across Europe.

Using wool of the highest quality, which arrives at her workshop in large bales, slithers of the raw wool are carded and dyed and when dried, carded once more ready to be felted. The finest strands are laid flat and rubbed with biodegradable soap to open the follicles. Further layers are added and rubbed, along with other fibres like cotton and silk for colour and texture.

Ronel designs individual shapes that her felters replicate, such as leaves, petals, rocks, webbed shawls and throws, which she later snips, cuts, shapes and stitches together. Like a painter with a palette, Ronel mixes her own dyes and invents descriptive names for the colours she produces.

Her continually expanding ranges include everything from clothing accessories such as scarves, shawls and wraps, to household objects such as carpets, curtains, lamps and throws. The most recognisable of all her

by michele beatham

products are surely her pebbles and rocks, converted into anything from cushions to carpets, all of which are nothing short of breathtaking works of art.

Consistent with being inspired by nature, the Ronel JordaanTM label is equally harmonious with nature.

Waste grey water is recycled into organic food gardens, grown in containers on the roof above the downtown Johannesburg warehouse in which they work. The produce, mainly morogo and spinach, are for staff to take home for personal use or to sell.

The soap, essential to felting, is a South African product and fully biodegradable and although her dyes are imported they are chosen because they are lead free and meet the European Eco-standard.

While these steps alone are laudable, Ronel also places job creation at the forefront of the company’s planning policy. 40 previously unemployed women between 19 and 40 have been trained and are now felters of international standing. She has personally trained women at the Wes Randse Christelike Gemeenskap Feeding Scheme to knit, and to knit specifically for the label. A small group of men in Sebokeng outside Johannesburg supply her with wire sculptures that form the sculptural support for exotic felted lamps and a self-help co-op of Coloured ladies in the Western Cape supply her with felt sheeting.

Exquisite, functional works of art combined with a respect for the planet and a passion for local job creation; without a doubt Ronel and the Ronel JordaanTM label deserve every one of their numerous local and international awards.

For more info visit www.roneljordaan.com, email ronel@roneljordan.co.za or call 011 493 5287

Weyers Marais Design

repurposing Weyers has the drive of a man with a divine mission. He works with throw away wood to create solid furniture that is beautiful and functional. This is how he does it.

“I go to fruit packers around Cape Town and collect the wood from their broken crates and pallets which they would otherwise send to the dumps to be burnt. I bring the wood home, which is where I work from, in a small workshop in my backyard, and remove all nails, staples and screws from the wood. I also clean excess dirt off the wood before I start cutting the wood to size for specific jobs. Once products have been completed, I varnish them with a European-Union-approved waterbased decking sealer to protect the wood and guarantee the products’ longevity.

During production, I bring in young, unskilled people to come and help me with the work. Although I pay them for the work they do, the main focus of this exercise is to facilitate skills training that will empower people who in turn can serve their community. To date I have had two different guys come work for me; they left inspired and eager to return and learn more.

At the moment my work can be seen at Kwalapa, an organic deli at Montebello in Newlands. Much of my other work has been for private clients, but I shall soon be updating my website to feature the bespoke work I have done with the pallet wood. www.wmd.co.za

design & innovation 05

forest creations With three preceding generations of master craftsmen, sculptors, artists and boat builders, it may seem less than surprising that Grant and Craig Bramwell work with wood today.

Although Forest Creations was born in 1993, their respective journeys before finally joining forces permanently in 2006 were more circuitous, and included studies in analytical chemistry, travels around Europe and the US, and fatherhood.

Inspired by the natural curves, colours and shapes of trees, Grant, Craig and their team create unique products to the highest standard of craftsmanship. Their extensive ranges include décor items, furniture and fittings and architectural items, as well as timber supply and services, with every piece crafted in such a way as to enhance the colours and forms of

local and exotic timbers such as yellow wood, camphor, wild olive, cypress and more.

Even more impressive is that every item is made using only the wood from dead, fallen or storm-damaged trees.

Grant and Craig work from premises in Wetton, Cape Town, which they built over two years, almost entirely from recycled materials, including all the timber and roof sheeting.

Theirs is without a doubt an eco-friendly business in almost every possible way and proof that one does not have to harm the environment in the pursuit of beauty.

View the showroom at 1202 Bloemhof Street, Wetton or contact 021 703 7082. www.forestcreations.co.za

competition free folded furniture Design 2010 - Live

The Western Cape Furniture Initiative is calling for entries for Design 2010. This innovative competition aims to promote design as one of the key tools for a furniture manufacturer to improve its competitive edge and stimulate economic growth.

The theme is LIVE, which seeks to inspire a creative take on furniture that forms part of living environments, e.g. tables, chairs, couches, beds or any furniture that fulfils the living theme, be it indoors or out. Any material can be used, including wood, steel, plastic etc.

The competition has two categories: an open division for any individual, group or business in the Western Cape and a closed division for registered Western Cape architecture, design and cabinet making students.

Entries close 19 February 2010.

Finalists and awards will be presented at Decorex Cape Town from 24 to 27 April.

In an attempt to “counter mass superficiality and ecological absurdity”, Foldschool offers an innovative selection of children’s furniture – free of charge! Designed by Swiss-based architect Nicola Enrico Stäubli, the patterns, as well as detailed instructions and advice, for these sturdy, easy-to-assemble cardboard creations are available for download at www.foldschool.com.

The possibilities for use – from bedrooms to playschools - and decoration are endless. We applaud Foldschool’s philosophy of providing affordable products through smart design.

hot stuff

Design with a re-purpose

By Aslam Mahommed from Black Chilli Design

My design for Decorex 2009 was to show that sustainable design can be sleek and urban and prove that well designed products do not have to cost a fortune. Inspiration came from the vibrancy of Johannesburg, which reflects a cultural diversity as varied as its inhabitants.

In the design, simple, elegant lines fuse with a flow of organic shapes while the space depicts everyday life rather than over-prepared “flair without flash” displays. The entire stand was designed by re-using items to create new, practical, eco-friendly pieces.

The table was a collaboration piece by Adaptations Décor and Black Chilli Design. The table top used to be an artwork by Adaptations, and the idea to turn it into a table was formed during informal discussions. Black Chilli designed the legs and glass panel system, which was recycled from old shop fitting doors that were going to be thrown out by the contractors.

Students at Greenside Design Centre designed the two cardboard chairs and with Black Chilli input were taken from concept to working prototype. Mia Jordon’s floral chair was inspired by a flower and spider web while

Jacques Eybers’ chair with red tubes explored a newer construction method.

The other six chairs were crates made from recycled plastic, the idea for which came from Joburg CBD hawkers who use the crates for a variety of purposes. In the design, they serve as dining chairs, with alternative uses as storage or stools.

The crockery was hand blown from recycled glass by South African glass blower Mike Hyam and each piece is unique, while the vase, formed from old fashion magazines, was designed by Lori, a second-year student at Greenside. She uses a plastic core in the centre.

The crate and wall cushions, designed and manufactured by Adaptations, are filled with a material made from recycled plastic bottles and covered in 100% polyester with a fused print. Custom orders are possible.

Black Chilli custom made the Joburg skyline artwork by using off-cuts of white vinyl from a signage company. The concept was to showcase the city through art.

by the light of the moon One of the unique features of a house being built in Stellenbosch by Eco Design Architects and Consultants is the timber - the wood is harvested in the Helderberg Nature Reserve according to the phases of the moon.

Just as the moon affects the tides, so it influences the rise and fall of sap in wood.

Timber is cut when the sap is at its lowest, i.e. three days before the new moon, between the Autumn Equinox and Winter Solstice.

Once cut, the wood is left to dry in the forest for between four and eight weeks with its bark, crown and a few side branches intact.

With the stem propped up and the branches

and bark intact, gravity helps the tree pull the last traces of sap to its branches.

This ancient method of preserving timber has numerous benefits. Lack of sap prevents infestation by insects and fungus, as well as cracking, splitting and warping. No poisons or kiln drying are required and working with dryer wood means less diesel, resulting in a lower carbon footprint, all of which result in a superior quality wood.

Helderberg Nature Reserve: 021 851 6982 Eco Design Architects & Consultants: 021 462 1614, www.ecodesignarchitects.co.za

For full details and a downloadable entry form visit www.capefurniture.za.org or call Bernadette Isaacs on 021 448 4436

these pages proudly brought to you by

06 travel

rock of ages Take the N7 to Clanwilliam, and meander your way for around 3 hours to enter a red landscape that breathes out history in silent exhalations from its epicentre. A haven awaits at the other end where a dark, cool pond of water lilies nestles, juxtaposed against ancient rocky crags and vast spaces. Bontebok graze in the brush as do the Red Hartebeest with their back to front horns. Highly endangered mountain zebra cross the path and there are tracks of errant ostrich.

In the large dam you will find Clanwilliam orange fish. Rim flow pools offer cool respite from the heat of the day and the birds keep you entertained with their endless calls and chirrupy chat. Huge trees frame the property and tea is taken in the shade of a giant Ficus.

Acid green Feverfew trees mark out pathways to elegant and discreet rooms which are sumptuously furnished and oozing African chic. Without doubt ultra luxurious and beautiful, the rooms overlook an incredible indigenous garden. All around are the orange, red and white rocks, landscaped only through time and the earth’s changes.

After iced ginger tea and a quick tour of the grounds I realised how huge this place is and what an undertaking it must have been to transform what used to be a potato farm.

Ancient San artefacts are kept in museum cases as the reserve holds some of the richest treasures in rock art in the country. My first encounter of the rock paintings was like seeping into an era of mystical ages where the spirits were only a breath away. The shamanic dance trance is so clearly envisioned in these tiny, yet clear rock paintings that have remained steadfast for thousands of years.

The therianthrope, with an antelope body, and strange human like legs is the shaman’s mark, made 200 generations back to when Less than three hours’ drive from Cape Town, the lodge is located within an ecological oasis that is a sanctuary to many endangered species of flora and fauna. It is recognized as one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage sites, and is the proud custodian of over 130 pristine Bushman rock art sites - some dating back 10 000 years.

Exploring Bushmanskloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, The Cederberg. by Melissa baird

this wild and rocky place was inhabited by the San, who created over 120 sites of exquisitely fine rock art on this 7000 hectare farm. The haunting art can transport you to another time and place, when herd of antelope and elephant would wander by.

The effect of the silence around you, punctuated by bird calls and heat, is intoxicating and one’s senses are heightened to the nuances of nature. Sunset brings the cricket and frog song to life.

There is no cell phone reception so there is no chance intrusion. This is time to relax and absorb an evening game drive through the majestic landscape, or take a massage at a small thatched wellness centre overlooking

a beautiful stream. Decadent afternoon teas complete the hedonism with the absolutely best cream and chocolate éclairs known to man.

Early morning brings a Mountain Chat for tea and a giant Kingfisher swoops over the dam. Rooibos bushes grow randomly. A lone Eland watches from the distance and a pretty Gemsbok is close. We are heading for Elephant cave and more rock paintings. Before us have leapt caracal and San hunters at least 1500 years ago. I learned how fynbos protects itself in these harsh conditions, it turns red to prevent photosynthesis and I see little red pockets all around me. I wonder what the first visitors to this land must have felt, like the

McAdam men who saw visions in these rocks.

The San believe that touch stone centres; the folds and random holes that appear in rocks, are portals to other realms, and the McAdam founders of this reserve knew they had found a touchstone to bring us closer together.

A cold swim greets the new day and the English tourist asks if the excess animals are turned into biltong and how long it is before you can eat an ostrich? “One and a half years” is the answer he is given regarding the ostrich but no excess animals end up that way. They are re-located in the quest for conservation.

At the riverside boma, you can sip a delicious vodka martini whilst looking upwards of an evening. You will see shooting stars and satellites move their circular way through our atmosphere; the Milky Way a sparkle, silhouetted by the branches and leaves of the mystical Feverfew trees.

People from all over the world come here and the languages spoken before dinner are a test of geographical and phonetic acumen.

Dinner at the open-air Makana restaurant is a culinary experience, complete with delicious wines including the best of the Bouchard-Finlayson vineyard (the owners of which also own Bushman’s Kloof).

You will definitely not forget this magical, mystical, mythical place…

VOTED “NUMBER ONE HOTEL IN THE WORLD”

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat has been voted the Best Hotel in the World in the 2009 US Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards reader’s survey. It also took pole position as Number 1 Lodge/Resort in Africa and the Middle East. www.bushmanskloof.co.za

living 07

green building issues

rim of africa photos: Peter Corbett & Graham Robinson

Monaghan Farm is conceived as a sustainable alternative to the ubiquitous golf estate. The property, near Lanseria consists of 530 hectares of rolling hills cut through by the Jukskei River. As something like 80% of households in a golf estate don’t regularly use the golf course it made sense to the developers to attempt to create an alternative development model for the homeowner who sought safety and space but perhaps found the economics and the environmental and social values of the typical golf estate to be reprehensible.

The property has three hectares of organic vegetables, herbs and cut flowers which will be sold in the Monaghan Farm Deli. A herd of Nguni cattle assist with grazing the 400 hectares of open ground. The earth-coloured, single- storied homes are required to incorporate rainwater harvesting and passive solar into their design. Buildings will cover just 3.5% of the farm when completed.

But how far do these houses go in terms of their green pedigree? “Not far enough” says Prospero Bailey, one of the developers. “Many of our purchasers have bought into the development with a desire to reduce the carbon footprint of their homes but find themselves frustrated by their bank’s reluctance to finance

newsflash Human Polar Bear to swim on Mount Everest As part of a climate change education and awareness initiative, South Africa’s largest retailer, Pick n Pay, will partner with pioneer swimmer Lewis Gordon Pugh as he undertakes the first-ever symbolic swim in a lake under the summit of Mount Everest in April

greener building techniques like cob, sandbag and straw-bale construction.”

Alaistair Armstrong’s Insynch Sustainable Technology’s focuses on educating builders and homeowners about these techniques. He has recently been approached by the NHBRC, the body that is tasked with monitoring quality within the building industry, who appear to be moving in on greener building methods.

He is hopeful that their support will lead to greater general acceptance of the technology.

Luigi Ferro of Eco Dream Homes has been talking to a British bank that is financing the construction of 600 sand bag homes in North Riding, Gauteng. He has also approached Standard Bank in the hopes of achieving a 1/5 interest free portion to loans on houses built with sandbags. The idea is that they will then be able to trade the significant carbon savings on the carbon credit market.

Perhaps the reluctance by the banks to finance what are SABS approved building systems has more to do with their general credit malaise. It is vital for pressure to be applied by the likes of Monaghan Farm, in order to shift thinking away from the conventional cement hungry construction methods. www. monaghanfarm.co.za

2010. The aim of this key event is to raise public awareness internationally, in Africa and particularly in South Africa regarding the devastating impact of climate change.

Pugh, who is also known as the ‘Human Polar Bear’, will be the first person to swim in the freezing conditions of Mount Everest – at an altitude of 5 600 metres above sea level in a temperature of one degree celsius. This will indeed be his most challenging swim to date.

Remarkably he has pioneered more swims around famous landmarks than any other swimmer in history, and is the only person to have completed a long-distance swim in every ocean in the world. Since being the first person to undertake a long-distance swim in the freezing waters of the North Pole, he has dedicated his life to campaigning for the protection of the environment.

Pugh says, “The swim across the North Pole completely changed me. I feel incredibly invigorated and believe I have earned the right to approach world leaders to tell them what’s happening up there. We can protect this place, we can cut our carbon emissions; we can leave this world in a better state than it was in when we received it.”

Currently more than one-billion people are dependent on water flowing from the Himalayas, and experts say the Himalayan glaciers are melting at an alarming rate. Glaciers in the Himalayas, a 2 400 kilometre (1 500 mile) range that sweeps through Pakistan, India, China, Nepal and Bhutan, provide headwaters for Asia’s nine largest rivers, a lifeline for the 1.3 billion people who live downstream.

exploring the Rim of Africa The Rim of Africa Mountain Passage is a walk that celebrates living on a grand scale, stretching over 700km from Pakhuis Pass in the Northern Cederberg to the beginning of the Outeniqua’s on the Eastern extremity of the Langeberg. A walk of no ordinary proportions, the Rim of Africa, modelled in part on other long distance walking experiences around the globe, such as Santiago de Compostela in Europe and the Appalachian Trail in the US, combines the exposure to wilderness, African mysticism and the rhythmical, physical exertion of walking to provide a magical experience and a marker in the celebration of life’s path.

The route that the Rim of Africa has chosen, a corridor of high rock results in one of the most dramatic changes in the South African landscape, a geology deeply expressed in its flora and fauna. This is the great divide, the water shed between the wetlands and dry lands, the lush, green pastures of the dairy and wheat industry and the parched, tough lands of the sheep farmers. You walk along the cutting edge of two completely different ecological zones, namely the Succulent Karoo and Fynbos Biomes. The water harvested by these mountains has played a critical role in the settlement patterns we have chosen over hundreds, if not thousands of years, remaining key to our continued existence in both the urban and rural contexts to which we have grown accustomed. These mountains have supported a rich and beautiful tapestry of events. They are a repository of cultural and biological history and, although in some cases threatened by various forms of development, remain intact as a vast wilderness.

A striking characteristic has been that water flows crystal clear down the Northern slopes and a rich-tanned water runs down the Southern slopes. This puzzling circumstance

was cleared up when you realise that the quality of vegetation on either side is dramatically different, and so intravenously releases two different sets of chemical cocktails into these veins of life.

Access to water generated by the mountains is central to the daily routine of the walker. It informs the route, the stops and the water carrying capacity of every individual. There are sections of this journey where so much water abounds that you need to swim with all that you have. There are other sections, however, that require a walker to carry as much as three days worth of water, in the hope that meager offerings are found in the weatherand time-carved sand stone troughs high on the barren, awe inspiring ridges.

The next walk is between the 14 and 25 October 2009 and over a period of ten days will cover approximately 120km traversing the entire Cedarberg, Hexberg and the Northern part of the Skurweberg.

For further information, please email Ivan Groenhof at ivan@rimofafrica.co.za or visit www.rimofafrica.co.za.

these pages proudly brought to you by

08 food word of the month

locavore Locavore is a word attributed to Californian chef and author, Jessica Prentice, who coined the word for World Environment Day in 2005. The word went on to become The New Oxford American Dictionary’s 2007 word of the year and changed the way millions worldwide eat.

Locavore describes someone who chooses to eat as much food as possible grown or produced within a determined radius from their home. There is no standard measure, and although many locavores do make exceptions (think coffee or spices) they will often ensure at least a reduction in food miles or choose a fair trade product instead.

Why go local?

Fresh is best, and without a doubt improves

taste; for example, salad leaves eaten within days of picking are far superior to the factory washed, packaged, refrigerated and trucked versions that can be brought in from miles away.

Seasonal foods taste better too.

Reduced food miles mean fewer carbon emissions (more when sustainable practices are used), and more local farmers means more green areas.

It strengthens the local economy and reduces unemployment – one of the key factors in reducing crime.

It creates or strengthens community by building relationships with farmers, producers and sellers, and even neighbours – some people go ultra-local and form community gardens.

Visit: www.transitiontowns-africa.org or www.envirochild.co.za or www.100milediet.org, an amusing read of a US couple’s year-long adventure.

going raw - for what?

nori sesame crackers, sweet potato pesto pastas and apple tarts with mango custards, then start talking, reading, thinking RAW. A great place to begin is with the locally produced book by Peter & Beryl Daniel, Raw’licious – otherwise, online, there are numerous sites out there.

For a taster, something that’ll convince even the burger burping beef eaters that there might be something in it, try these: Cacao Fudge

What a ridiculous notion. Man mastered fire so that we can have hot coffee, grilled steaks and fried chips, plus do a few things with a blow torch. Why on earth would anyone want to spend their lives chopping, dicing, juicing and slicing mounds of fruit and veg? Ask the carrot munchers and there’s a glazed evangelical look that takes over the eyes. The trumpets are out and within five minutes of monologue all disease is eradicated, the forests have returned and there’s a lot of happy animals, if everyone would just start eating RAW. Okay, so each discipline has its flag wavers; from Ferrari fanatics to football freaks, there are going to be those who elevate their beliefs to the heights of the divine. But what of RAW? As humans we’ve been around for a bit, created with digestive systems that run efficiently when they’re fed the stuff they were designed for. I can wax lyrical about how your fingernails grow faster, your hair is more luscious, your skins glows and excess weight drops off but I’d rather just say, quite simply, your system is built for it. For most of us it’s unchartered territory, but if you want to dip in to the world of avocado chocolate mousse,

Chocolate slab with almond and prunes

the green chef I am a chocoholic. I am obsessive about everything and think nothing of driving kilometres for the perfect hot chocolate. I certainly would love to celebrate my birthday every day, just to have a slice of Melissa’s chocolate fudge cake or to bake a tiramisu cake for my birthday guests. It’s sensational – a billowing assembly of soft sponge cake, cream, mascarpone, a touch of alcohol, chocolate and coffee. Tiramisu translated from the Italian means ‘pick me up’. Heaven knows why, unless it means “Be a darling and gather me up when I collapse in a groaning heap from eating too much of this pudding”.

The end of May is always very important in my diary as it’s four days of food heaven with chefs and foodies alike gathering for the annual Good Food and Wine show. And, was it a chocolate affair! I met Camil Haas and his lovely wife Ingrid. Ingrid owns a Parisian pancake salon in the heart of the city called Crepe Suzette, and one in Franschhoek, and it reflects the romance of Paris. The best

thing is that she will gladly give you her secret chocolate pancake recipe – as long as you visit them. (021 418 0440) I was honoured to do a workshop with Australian chef Skye Gyngell. We cooked a summery chocolate panna cotta with warm berries and honey. It’s rich, creamy and a little wobbly but oh so decadent.

A chocolate dessert is always part of my repertoire for my cooking classes at the Pick ‘n Pay school of cooking. Nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing an anxious, yet eager student prepare to cook this dish, and their happy face after it is cooked with success.

I thank the Aztecs. To them chocolate was a source of spiritual wisdom, tremendous energy and enhanced powers.

Here is my favourite chocolate dessert recipe for you to enjoy...

Until next time. Happy cooking!

By Patrick Schofield

100g blanched almonds 100g pitted prunes 50ml medium cream sherry 200g dark couverture chocolate (70 % cocoa solids) chopped 80ml double cream 20g unsalted butter, chopped

Method • Preheat the oven to 200oC. • Place almonds on a baking tray and toast till golden (approximately 10 minutes).

Leave to cool and roughly chop into pieces.

• Soak prunes in sherry until all the liquid is absorbed, then chop into pieces.

• Place chopped chocolate, cream and butter in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, and cover the bowl with plastic film. (This prevents steam or moisture getting to the chocolate. Contact with water can make the chocolate seize or become grainy).

• Fold chopped prunes and almonds into the warm chocolate mixture, stirring to combine.

• Line a non-stick baking tray with baking paper and pour the chocolate mixture, onto the tray and spread it evenly to make a slab.

• Cover with plastic film and refrigerate for about an hour or until set.

• Break into irregular shapes and sizes for a homemade effect. Serve with coffee or dessert wine.

• If there is any left, store in a sealed airtight container in a cool, dark cupboard.

1 cup raw cacao powder ½ cup Honeywood ½ cup chopped walnuts (or almonds) ½ cup pine nuts ½ cup coconut oil 2 tsp vanilla Mix ingredients well and press into tray or pan.

Refrigerate and once set, cut into slices and serve.

Cauliflower Loaf

3 cups cauliflower, chopped very fine ½ cup macadamia or almond nut butter 2 green onions ½ cup ground sunflower seeds 1-2 tbsp vegetable powder 1-2 tbsp horseradish 1 tsp bay leaves, ground 1 ½ cups celery, diced 1 tsp paprika Add any other herbs to taste, mix with a little mayonnaise to get desired texture.

Form into a loaf. Serve with a curry sauce, dressing or with slices of avocado on or between crisp lettuce leaves.

Download Richard Alan Ross’s RAW recipe book via www.rawforlife.com.

Hot chocolate chilli cupcakes

185g best quality dark chocolate 185g butter cubed 1tsp dried chilli or 1 fresh chilli, finely chopped, include seeds 3 egg yolks lightly whisked 50g flour, 4 eggs 70g castor sugar Preheat the oven to 180oC. Grease 12 large dariole moulds or ramekins. In a double boiler, melt the chocate and butter together until smooth.

Remove from the heat and stir in the chilli, then the egg yolks and flour. In the the bowl of an electric mixer, with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Fold the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture.

Bake for 10 minutes, not longer, as the cakes set outside the oven. Let stand for 5 minutes. The cakes have a soft centre. Serve warm.

Recipe taken from the book Cakes by Callie Maritz & Marie-Louis Guy

drink 09

La Motte

More than just a wine farm

The La Motte Nabot farm in the Walker Bay coastal region has been developed as an organic production operation, eliminating the use of pesticides and chemicals in winemaking. Nabot’s organically-grown grapes are reserved for the production of a Sauvignon Blanc wine that is a consistent award winner and of course absolutely delicious to drink.

just java

By Sandy Barlow

‘Fairtrade’ and ‘Social Responsibility’ have become far more than just trendy buzzwords among the environmentally conscious. Even in South Africa, more and more consumers are questioning where products are grown or made, and by whom.

Coffee is just one example, but given that many of the regions in which it is grown and produced have suffered the consequences of war, famine or bad governance it is perhaps one of the most important.

Countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Brazil are blessed with the ideal altitude and climate to produce some of the world’s finest coffees, yet in many regions farmers are exploited by unethical trading practices and forced to accept very low prices. This is where Fairtrade comes in.

Fairtrade certification is designed to help consumers identify products that meet minimum environmental, labour and developmental criteria. Independent auditing of producers ensures that these standards are met and companies that comply may then apply for a Fairtrade Certification Mark.

However, it seems that currently this cer-

Rwanda’s good news coffee

tification is only available to co-operatives of small farms. Individual family-run farms and plantations are excluded, perhaps due in part to lack of skills and finance – certainly something that needs to be addressed by Fairtrade authorities. In its 7 December 2006 issue, Economist magazine raised these concerns, maintaining that certification is predicated on political assumptions about labour organisation.

From the farmer to the mill, the transport company to the roaster, each participant in the process has a clearly defined and equally important role to play, yet roasters tend to buy from brokers through commodity markets, in a world where buyer and seller never meet.

It is only when all role players work together with transparency, commitment and without competing interests, that sustainable livelihoods in coffee-growing communities will be successfully achieved. For sourcing to be ethical, it must be targeted at the coffee growers.

Anyone who enjoys their coffee knows that producing a good quality coffee is a skill that deserves recognition and reward.

Before buying coffee it is worth investigating where one’s favourite blend or single origin is sourced.

Coffee has been grown in Rwanda for many years, but never of gourmet quality.

Now, Rwanda Maraba Bourbon, a single origin coffee from the Abahuzamugambi Ba Kawa Co-operative in the Maraba district, is changing that. Harvested from a rare tree variety called Arabica Bourbon, it is seldom grown commercially. Launched in 2003 as part of the Red Nose Day campaign, Rwanda Maraba Bourban, with the help of Seattle Coffee Company’s input and investment, has since helped transform the local district.

A medical centre, school, bank and even a hairdressing salon have contributed to the creation of a vibrant community where once there was only despair.

barista

Take notice of the excellent Barista Pinotage 2009 As delectable as the aroma of fresh coffee is in the morning, the temptation to replace the morning cup with a glass of Barista Pinotage was somewhat heightened after tasting it for the first time, this is a wine you could wake up to and it tastes as goods its aroma.

Val de Vie, situated on the Berg River near Paarl, has launched the maiden vintage of their ‘coffee pinotage’, the Barista Pinotage 2009. And the man who conceived and created the first ‘coffee pinotage’, Bertus ‘Starbucks’ Fourie, is convinced that the Barista Pinotage 2009 is the top ‘coffee pinotage’ he has yet produced.

The burst of intense, rich coffee and chocolate aromas with ripe nuances of mulberry, plum and Maraschino cherries are enhanced by sweet aromas of vanilla and butterscotch.

This food-friendly wine with its ripe luscious tannins is ready to be enjoyed now. “Barista Pinotage is the most controversial style of pinotage in the world. Most people crave it once they’ve tasted it. The wine does not speak of terroir, as oak plays the dominant role, accounting for its coffee and chocolate flavours – the richness of coffee beans and the smoothness of creamy chocolate.”

Bertus produced that Barista Pinotage 2009 in the Robertson Winery cellar, using pinotage grapes from the Robertson district

these pages proudly brought to you by

However it is not only their range of La Motte Pierneef Sauvignon Blancs that are organic. The farm in Franschhoek produces vines as well as essential oils and these oils were certified organic by SGS South Africa on 28th Feb 2009. They harvest geranium oil, buchu, thyme, lavender and Cape snowbush used mostly in the perfume industry but you can also buy a few bottles for your own use when you visit the farm.

Disa orchids are cultivated on the farm in Franschhoek they have successfully cultivated new hybrids in specifically designed greenhouses, creating a rare explosion of colour. There are approximately 125 known species of disas and the best-known one is the disa uniflora. The sole pollinator of the disa uniflora is the majestic meneris tulbaghia or Mountain Pride butterfly.

The best season to acquire disas from the farm is from mid-October until mid-February.

only. In his research he discovered that the pinotage grapes from Robertson, with their vines grown in dark, deep-red soils, yield the best grapes for this style of wine.

Where do the coffee aromas come from?

This is the magic and the mystery. What we do know for certain is they are a combination of the effects of a specific yeast strain, specific toasting, specific oak type and of course, pinotage grapes. Further than that he won’t elaborate because of course there are some trade secrets, which, in fact, have now been patented. But the remarkable thing is that only pinotage grapes produce these coffee flavours.”

What’s in a name?

The name ‘barista’, originated from Italian and is unashamedly pure coffee nomenclature. A barista is one who is highly skilled in coffee preparation, with a comprehensive understanding of coffee and coffee blending. Baristas are known for their signature styles of coffee. The term ‘barista’ has been expanded to one who might be called a ‘coffee sommelier’. This is most appropriate because the name coffee is derived from the ancient Arabic phrase ‘qahwat al-búnn’, meaning ‘wine of the bean’.

And in ancient Eritrea, where coffee was probably first discovered, the Tigrinyan (language) word for coffee was ‘búnn’ also meaning ‘wine of the bean’.

Visit Val de Vie’s tasting room from Monday to Saturday: 09h00 to 17h00, Sundays and public holidays: 10h00 to 16h00. Cellar tours by appointment only. Walks, hikes and mountain bike trails are offered. The Sabrage Restaurant, serving Italian food, opens soon. www.valdevie.co.za

!s bottle of IN W u io c re away ne p

e o e to giv We have Pinotag a Email t r. is e r d a wn rea 2009 B o T e ith p a ky C .co.za w to a luc balance line. in t c fe li je b @ u michele away” in the s 0 0 er 2 9 give Novemb “Barista 5 2 e s lo c Entries

10 products happy bodies This range consists of everyday personal hygiene products that will leave you feeling naturally revitalized and fresh. Great care has been taken in formulating products that are luxurious and effective whilst using the highest quality natural and certified organic ingredients. They do not contain petrochemical, parabens, synthetic fragrances, aluminium or animal products and the range is endorsed

by Beauty Without Cruelty.

Products include: Body Wash (250ml) R65.

Body Lotion (250ml) R76. Shampoo (250ml) R85. Conditioner (250ml) R85. Shave Créme with cooling effect (150ml) R68. Crisp Mint toothpaste with Xylitol (100ml) R40. Living Eco roll-on deodorant 75ml fragranced R59, fragrance-free: R54. Available at selected healthshops nationwide. Visit online store at www.purebeginnings.co.za or call 031 764 4049

did you know?

Certified Organic Ingredients are ingredients that are

grown without the use of synthetic fertilisers, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides and are approved by international organic certification organisations. You are assured that they are non toxic and the environment has not been affected in their production

vegan dog?

TrionZ

Prepared with great insight into the nutritional requirements for human or pet, meat or vegan, Vondis have created dog food that is totally balanced and nutritious and will leave your best friend healthier and stronger than ever. Some of the ingredients include brown rice, millet, lentils, peas, barley, wheat germ, rolled oats, beetroot, butternut, sweet potato, carrots and a variety of freshly picked herbs. Calcium gluconate, zinc gluconate, taurine, yeast, lecithin, kelp, dandelion and vitamin C are added extras.

Available from selected stockists in Cape Town and Gauteng. www.vondis.co.za

TrionZ is the worlds first sport therapy band.

These magnetic bracelets combine medicalgrade magnets and minus-ion producing minerals to increase blood flow and circulation. They also counteract the effects of excessive positive-ion build up from physical activity, exposure to UV rays and prolonged exposure to electronic equipment. www.trionz.co.za

wonder oil

no paper or CDs

EcoProducts organic baobab seed oil is easily absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue. It is known for its Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids and is a rich and nourishing oil with excellent skin rejuvenating properties. It softens, encourages regeneration of cells and improves the elasticity of the skin.

As a tissue oil, it can be apply to scars and stretch marks and it is safe for pregnant women. The oil also has healing properties and is being used by sufferers of eczema, psoriasis, sun spots, scaly skin disorder and skin cancer.

EcoProducts baobab Oil is available in 5ml, 30ml, 50ml and 100ml glass amber bottles.

Available at selected health shops around the country. See www.ecoproducts.co.za for a stockist near you.

If you’re wondering what to do with all your back up CDs and have experienced finding the crucial one lost, just when you need it most then this may be for you. Save yourself the freak out and consider that if IronTree users weren’t already saving their data online, there would be a pile of CDs 1 ½ times as high as Table Mountain in a year!

Online back up saves on the manufacture of CDs, DVDs, Magnetic Tapes, labels etc and in addition tape devices, removable hard drives and other backup devices need never be bought or recycled.

Register online for a 14 day free trial at www.irontree.co.za/lifeinbalance

Vitaderm Vitaderm’s five Aromatic Complexes are the ultimate in skin conditioning, can be slotted into any skin care regime and are especially beneficial at change-of-seasons. 100% preservative–free and plant-based, with a base of grape seed, almond, marula and macadamia oils (skin type depending), they may be applied over or mixed with one’s usual day or night cream. Essential oils help increase micro-circulation thereby oxygenating the skin, leaving the complexion soft and supple, with renewed vitality. Choose from Soothing, Regenerating, Clarifying, Stimulating or Hydrating.

Visit www.vitaderm.co.za or call 021 914 3777

what’s news?

Award-winning designer Lungi Sokhulu’s stunning range of fashion accessories and décor items is back in Cape Town! Crafted from old newspapers, her sought after designs are durable, heat and water resistant and perfect for those who appreciate unique, handmade, functional and eco-friendly products. Available at The Green Shop at Cape Quarter, de Waterkant or online at www.thegreenshop.co.za

Equavie bambini Beautiful Earth’s Bambini Breath Easy Chest Rub

Soft for little skins and safe and easy to use helping to ease congestion and offer relief from coughs and colds. R70. Contact Janin on 083 441 9741 or info@beautiful-earth.co.za

Flowers Dietary Supplement

Equavie draws inspiration from flowers to create an ideal supplement to protect and embellish the skin. Rich in anti-free radical agents (zinc, vitamin E and lutein), Equavie Flowers helps the skin protect itself from harsh environmental conditions. R490.

Contact A&I Importers on (011) 486 4904

products 11 our stamp of approval

glowing beauty “The most beautiful make-up is a healthy skin” is the founding principle of Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics and the reason why this unique range of cosmetics in the most up to date colours is a true extension of skin care. A blend of natural minerals and pigments provides a protective filter, allowing skin to breathe while shielding it from pollutants; so safe and beneficial it is recommended by dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Distributed by Strawberry, it is available at selected pharmacies, spas and health stores nationwide.

For further information visit www.strawberry.co.za or email always@strawberry.co.za

LIB endorsement

When Life In Balance was launched last October last year we began reviewing a range of fabulous products that are using all natural ingredients and are doing their best to be kind to the earth. Some of them really stood out and we decided that in order to celebrate them further we would give them our very own stamp of approval for their extra “wow” factor.

“Kiss Chlorine Goodbye”

Eco-fusion natural

Biowashball eliminates

purification technology

laundry. info@htp.co.za

Natural Freshwater Pool & Whole Home Systems oxidation water the need for detergents in Protecting You and the Environment

Revolution teas available at the Oolong Café. 021 424 1175. www.revolutiontea.co.za

see you at the cowshed Cowshed by FUEGO Lifestyles, the cheeky, addictively indulgent bath and home fragrance range has arrived in South Africa. The stylish range of natural, therapeutic products contains a high ratio of the highest quality organic, fair trade and wild-crafted essential oils to provide maximum therapeutic effect and enhance wellbeing.

Contact FUEGO Head Office on 011 902 5349 for stockists. www.fuegolifestyle.com.

soothe your mind

Cell. 072 744 2801 www.eclear.co.za

light news

Badger Mind Balms which work in a similar way to aromatherapy, using the fragrance of pure essential oils to bypass the conscious mind and soothe the emotions on a deeper level. This USDA Organic certified range of five balms includes a headache soother, yoga & meditation balm, cheerful mind balm, stress soother and clear mind balm.

Badger organic balms are available at www.naturescolours.com, or call 011 640 5721

happy feet Lovely to walk in and extremely light these are super shoes for outdoor adventurers. The outsoles provide shock absorption whilst the comfortable foot bed also offers essential support and it is fully washable. The microfibre fleece used in many Terrasoles® styles is manufactured from recycled materials. The cotton used is organic, and the canvas, cork and rubber are recycled. The packaging and all Terrasole® promotional materials are also made from recycled materials, using soy inks.

Terrasoles® retail from R699 to R799, and are available at the following Outdoor Warehouse branches: CT: Willowbridge (021) 914 1357 JHB: Centurion: (012) 663 1450, Boksburg: (011) 823 3110

sign up

Tel. 021 881 3223 info@eclear.co.za

Soylights candles are soot-free and offer a 50-hour burn time. They are made from the purest, raw GM-free soy and are free of paraffin wax and other additives, making them suitable to use as a therapeutic skin oil for relief from dry skin; cracked heals; eczema; minor abrasions, etc. Non toxic and biodegradable, all the packaging is locally sourced and packaging re-used. Choose from eight different blends including lemongrass, lavender and lime for rejuvenation; rosewood and ylangylang for a romantic touch; geranium and jasmine for harmony and cedar wood and pine (popular blend for men) for tranquility.

Soylights also offers custom branding and corporate gift options. For stockists and other information visit www.soylites.co.za, email info@soylites.co.za or call Nicole on 0828588095

! e chance IN W tand th s s r e d a dle in

cky re ts can Three lu g one Soyligh ice. Email in n c heir ho ith “Soyof win nce of t a r g a o.za w fr the alance.c ubject line. b in fe li @ the s michele away” in 1 August. e iv g s t ligh close 3 Entries

Our new website will be going live within the next two weeks and the electronic newsletter, which is a mini version of the paper, has been re-designed. Sign up to receive your double dose of lifestyle news and we will give the first 10 people who do a hemp shopping bag and eco-doodle. Send your requests to michele@lifeinbalance.co.za

these pages proudly brought to you by

12 wellness

Jin Shin ® Jyutsu

By Nan Hamilton

burnout!

• Avoidance of or difficulty carrying out even basic tasks and responsibilities • Escaping from the world through day- dreams, fantasies, television, alcohol, etc

It’s one of those days.

You oversleep, the car won’t start, work offers unscheduled meetings and interruptions at every turn, fantasies about desert islands reach triple figures, caffeine is the only food group and when you finally get home (having worked late) domestic bliss is little more than chores completed in a haze of exhaustion.

Stress affects all of us and rightfully receives much attention, but a far more insidious illness that few recognise and for which fewer get timely help is becoming more and more prevalent.

Burnout is a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress from a number of sources. As the stress continues, you begin to lose interest or motivation, which reduces productivity and saps energy, leaving you feeling increasingly helpless, hopeless, cynical and resentful. Do any – or even all – of the following sound familiar: • Exhaustion, even after a good night’s sleep • Insomnia • Dreading work • Hard work, less productivity, more procrastination and not caring • Lack of focus and concentration • Withdrawal from the world, including friends and family • Increased or decreased appetite leading to unhealthy diet choices • Growing depression, cynicism or feelings of negativity • Increased apathy, lack of passion and inner creativity • Lack of confidence, feelings of low self-worth • Feelings of powerlessness or resentment • Increased health problems: headaches, anxiety, gastro-intestinal problems, muscu- lar tension, rashes, dental problems, etc.

• Memory lapses

Burnout is a gradual process and by its very nature – apathy, withdrawal, depression, avoidance, etc. – professional help is often sought only when the physical effects become debilitating. This means that recovery will take time and require a multi-disciplinary approach under guidance of a professional.

There is no magic cure and we urge readers who feel they may be suffering burnout to seek help no matter how difficult.

In an increasingly fast-paced, stressful world, finding balance and caring for ourselves is no longer an option, it’s a necessity.

by Michele Beatham

Our bodies contain various pathways that feed life into all our cells. Jin Shin Jyutsu® Physio-philosophy is about knowing the body’s vital life force and tapping in to its source – the “battery” from which universal revitalising energy comes.

When this energy flows unimpeded we are in harmony, but this perfect harmony may be interrupted by daily eating habits, working habits, hereditary characteristics, environmental and weather conditions, mental and emotional anxieties, accidents causing injury, or by chemicals or poisonous substances introduced to the body.

When one or more of the pathways become blocked, this damming effect may lead to discomfort or even pain. This blockage will not only disrupt the local area but, unattended, will eventually disharmonize the complete path or paths of energy flow.

The Art of Jin Shin Jyutsu is the application of ones hands as “jumper cables” on the body to allow the energy to flow through the body and thereby heal itself. More generally, it is the awakening to awareness of complete harmony within the self and the universe, physically, mentally and spiritually.

stress solutions Some activities and therapies that help relieve stress: Pilates strengthens and balances the body. Visit www.pilatesinfo.co.za or telephone 021 913 0947 for a list of practitioners.

Yoga has numerous holistic health

benefits. To find out more, contact Wendy Wood – 011 887 2027 or Mary Seegers – 011 682 2171 or visit www.yft.co.za A number of different massage therapies are available, from shiatsu to ayurvedic, aromatherapy to hot stone.

Ask around to find a therapy and therapist with whom you are comfortable.

Reflexology is far more than a foot massage. Information on its health benefits and a list of practitioners can be found at www.sareflexology.org.za or telephone 021 558 9868.

One of the best free therapies is a gentle walk in nature, at the edge of the ocean, a peaceful forest or your even your own neighbourhood.

For information on sessions, self-help classes and book resources available please call 0826571809, email nan@jinshinjyutsu.co.za or go to www.jinshinjyutsu.co.za

core crystal healing If not ourselves, we all know at least one person who expresses feelings of “emptiness” or a yearning to fulfil their heart’s wishes and step into a bigger piece of themselves. Others experience blockages, from belief systems or through trying or traumatic experiences.

Julia Tiffin offers a healing modality dating back thousands of years. Known as the 22-Strand DNA Activation, it re-awakens your original divine blueprint, opens brain capacity and pathways of possibilities, ignites unused gifts, and clears genetic and environmental debris, leaving you filled with passion, energy and light.

Using specially prepared crystal and sacred wood, this remarkable technique produces maximum results with minimal effort (only one session is usually required) and because it works with one’s DNA, a visit by one family member often triggers positive results in others.

It is particularly suitable for Indigo children, helps stabilise those with ADHD and while not a cure for serious illness such as depression or cancer, it supports and strengthens the immune system, essential for health and healing.

For more information, to book a session in Cape Town, or find a practitioner near you, contact Julia on 084 680 6029, email Julia@spiral-light.net or visit www.rmmssa.com and www.spiral-light.net/za

A change of heart changes everything A California institute demonstrates how people can actually make their heart beat in a healthier way. HeartMath’s research shows that emotions work much faster, and are more powerful, than thoughts. The heart governs well being more than the brain does, for example briefly re-experiencing a cherished memory creates synchronization in your heart rhythm in mere seconds. By learning a simple technique and practicing it each day you can wage war on stress in the gentlest way. Feelings of compassion, love, care and appreciation produce a smoothly rolling heart rhythm, while feelings of anger, frustration, fear and danger emit a jagged image. Even more reason to cultivate happy thoughts wouldn’t you agree?

Visit www.heartmath.org

lifestyle 13

collagen cures

tying the knot

Collagen supplementation has been gaining momentum globally over the past few years due to its numerous benefits within the body. by ryan mcfadden So what is collagen?

Collagen is the natural protein that constitutes most of the body’s structural support, being the skin, tendons, bone and cartilage and is also the primary substance of connective tissue. It is this fibrous tissue that holds the body together.

The body’s production of collagen naturally slows with aging. Over time this decrease in collagen results in the gradual breakdown of the connective tissues and muscle tissues. Oral supplementation with collagen stimulates the body’s own production of collagen thus increasing collagen levels and significantly reducing the many signs and effects of ageing.

What are the benefits?

Arthritis benefits

In South Africa, it is estimated that there could be six million people suffering with arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is a condition of wear and tear which usually tends to occur as individuals age and also in those whose joints that have become worn down by excessive

health watch

Beware Phthalates in perfumes and cosmetics

By Belinda Wesson

Recently, phthalates (pronounced ‘thalates’) were banned from cosmetics by the European Union. They are commonly used in nail enamel to inhibit chipping by making the polish more flexible. They have also been banned in Europe for use in baby bottles and toys and teething rings as the ingredient was used to make plastic more flexible.

exercise over the years.

Naturally decreasing levels of collagen in the body results in insufficient material available to repair the daily damage which, over time, results in osteoarthritis. Collagen plays a vital role in the repair process, allowing daily repair of joints and cartilage thereby delaying or improving the condition.

Skin benefits

Collagen constitutes 75% of human skin and is one of the major factors contributing to the plump, smooth appearance found in young healthy skin. Decreased production of collagen results in the skin retaining less water, getting thinner and beginning to wrinkle.

With regular collagen supplementation, independent research showed significant improvements in wrinkle reduction, skin moisture levels and plumpness as well as skin health and PH balance. Improvements in T

What is not commonly known is that phthalates are very widely used in the perfume industry. Due to the highly secretive nature of this industry, fragrance manufacturers are not compelled to declare their ingredient listing which makes it tricky for the consumer to know what exactly is being used to create the fragrances and other perfumed products that can be so compelling to use.

In September 2000, the Centre for Disease control and Prevention in U.S.A reported that seven types of phthalates had been detected in the 289 people that were tested.

During the analysis of this information, it came to light that women of childbearing age had the highest concentration of phthalates, specifically dibutyl phthalate (DBT) in their bodies. It was speculated

zone sebum levels and a reduction in pore size were also evident.

Sports Injuries

In general, injury and age-related decline within the sporting arena is generally associated with connective tissue structures such as the ligaments, tendons, and other joint structures. Muscle tissue itself is not affected as often as is thought. Added to this, the decreased stability of the cell membranes and collagen fibres that occur naturally with age contributes to a higher susceptibility to injury.

By supplementing with collagen the body is able to repair any connective tissue microtears helping you to prevent injuries and speed up recovery.

Collagen Supplements currently on the South African market include Genacol, the global leader, Pro-collagen and Biogen Collagen. that cosmetics might be the source of contamination. In a study that was published in November 2000 by the Environmental Working Group, DBT was indeed found in popular nail care products like enamels, top coats and hardeners. Later, this organisation found alarming concentrations of phthalates in perfumes.

In 2002, an intensive study revealed that 52 out of 72 randomly selected mass-market products (e.g fragrances and fragranced body lotions) contained phthalates. These chemicals have been proven to penetrate the skin and nail bed. Once inside the tissues of the body, they mimic oestrogen, but are infinitely more potent. Dibutyl phthalate has been linked to permanent birth defects in the male reproductive system of babies, as a result of exposure whilst in utero.

Some fragrances tested contained diethyl phthalate (DEP) in concentrations as high as 28 000 parts per million. That equates to almost 3% of total formulation.

Until consumers become more aware of these toxins, cosmetic manufacturers will continue to use questionably chemicals.

Your first step is to refer to the research that The Environmental Working Group has gone to great lengths to produce. There is a website where you can research what goes in to mass-market products – go to www.cosmeticsdatabase.com There is also good information at www.safecosmetics.org or search ‘Not too pretty’ which will give you more information on the intensive study on phthalates in cosmetics. By being aware of the ingredients you will now be able to make better decisions about the products you use and minimise your exposure to harmful chemicals.

Long before organised religion wielded its power and intimidated almost as many individuals as it converted, Wiccans and Pagans conducted a ‘handfasting ceremony’.

Instead of a church, the couple meets in a circle divided into four quarters, each representing one of the elements: earth, fire, water and air, and stands before an altar at the north end of the circle, where a celebrant presides over the ceremony. There are no wedding vows per sé, instead the bride and groom promise to lead a good life and take care of each other. The celebrant then binds the couple’s right hands signifying a lasting union. Thus the term ‘tying the knot’ was born! The ceremony concludes with the couple jumping over a sword or broomstick – representing the end of one life and the beginning of another.

I rather like this method; a sort of a low-cal ceremony free of pomp and circumstance, rings and expensive dress, and material things that often overshadow the primary reason for the union! Unfortunately, the handfasting ceremony is not legally binding. In fact, many are good for only one year, with promises made during the ceremony re-evaluated after one year and a day, after which the couple can choose to remain together or go separate ways; surely less painful than filing for divorce! So technically, ‘tying the knot’ is an ‘untying’ ceremony as well; after 12 months and 24 hours, that is!

Ancient wedding bands

Were made of hemp or braided grass – a wonderfully unique alternative to gold and diamonds.

Ah, the honeymoon…

The term originated in ancient Ireland where newlyweds were given enough mead to drink and be merry for one moon cycle. All going well they were promised a son within a year.

To read more http://www.classicsunveiled. com/romel/html/marrcustwom.html

these pages proudly brought to you by

14 art & books

the art of changing lives Toni Burton describes Zizamele Ceramics as “making art that makes a difference” and from its inception it has done just that. By Michele Beatham In 2002 Toni was approached to run a job creation project at the Noordhoek campus of False Bay College – an 18-month Learnership followed by a six-month Learn-and Earn programme. The range produced during this programme was based upon the original Bambanani bowl – a press moulded bowl with a circle of African women holding hands around the rim – from a previous production unit at the college, which was improved and decorated in Zizamele’s now distinctive colours and patterns.

With the Learn-and-Earn course complete, students were expected to leave campus and set up their own businesses - completely unrealistic given the costs involved in financing a ceramics facility. Toni fought for the students to remain at the campus and Zizamele was born.

The five full time Zizamele artists produce exquisite, sought-after ranges that grace homes, galleries and offices worldwide.

The now iconic Bambanani bowl, available in various sizes, is adapted as trends change, but remains the piece that truly represents the company and its community work ethic, symbolised by the women holding hands.

Other products include the Bambanani Boxes

Sally Louw Ceramics

Sally works with clay because of the connection it gives her to the earth. She can feel the thrill of creating something out of earth when she crafts exquisite and fine ceramic bowls and platters. Sally loves experimenting with textures and colours achieving some astonishing results.

The combination of rich reds, pewter and textured patterns are what makes Sally’s pieces so instantly recognisable. The highly polished surface of the glaze combines dramatically with the naturally porous texture of the clay. Her organic shapes draw reference from the sea and other natural forms of inspiration. Her work is collected by her loyal clientele from all over the world. View Sally’s pieces in Cape Town at Africa Nova in the Cape Quarter; Artvark in Kalk Bay and Clementia Van Der Walt Gallery at the Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. Call 072 713 8907

and the very popular Big Five tea light holders, which are snapped up by anyone wanting a perfect gift, as well as foreign tourists.

Every Zizamele ceramic is a one-off, making each piece truly unique and epitomising the vibrancy that is Africa, and why their work could arguably be classified as fine art rather than craft.

Besides the full time staff, Zizamele has a part time artist who works twice a week and a network of trained potters who are called upon for large orders such as corporate gifts.

Commissions and corporate gifts are a large percentage of their business, made easier by the fact that Zizamele is able to offer all types of ceramic work, including thrown, cast, hand crafted and sculpting.

Remarkably, Zizamele has never received any direct funding or assistance, so its success thus far is an almost miraculous achievement in itself. This includes numerous awards and international recognition, as well as the Bambanani bowl being chosen to be part of the Corobrick Permanent Collection, which showcases the history and art of ceramics in South Africa.

But Toni’s vision for Zizamele is far from complete.

Reviews by The Book Lounge, 71 Roeland Street, Cape Town. 021 462 2425

PSPC [life in balance]march09 2/23/09 5:38 PM Page 1 Y

CM

MY

CY CMY

K

win!

M

For more information or to arrange a visit to the Zizamele workshop, please contact Toni Burton on 084 556 6423, email info@zizamele.co.za or visit www.zizamele.co.za

on the shelf

Going Green Simon Gear If you haven’t yet acquired a copy of this book, do so now. Simon Gear offers 365 ideas for not only a healthier planet but also healthier, more balanced lives. From the extremely easy (covering pots when cooking or reading to your kids) to the more involved but no less interesting (getting a degree or making your own cheese), he offers sound, practical advice in an easy to read format.

ISBN: 9780143025931 C

There is no doubt that skills development and entrepreneurial opportunities are vital in South Africa. Despite this, Toni notes that government authorities are closing most of the ceramics training facilities in the country and worse, many of the indigenous crafts and skills are not being passed to younger generations, with a real danger of them dying out.

Toni dreams of expanding the workshop in order to train many more up and coming young artists and crafters, as well as building a gallery and store in order to market their work more extensively and for, ultimately, the artists to run the business themselves.

Australian Gardens for a Changing Climate Jenna Burns Although more a coffee table book than a ‘how to’ guide, this book will definitely provide inspiration and ideas that are easily adaptable to South Africa. The book is divided into five broad categories – the city; rural; coastal; desert and country – within which individual properties are highlighted.

Interspersed throughout is information on everything from mulch to microclimates and windbreaks to water.

Beautifully illustrated in full colour with photographs by Simon Griffiths.

ISBN: 9781920989859

Penq u three in are giv in c Emai opies of g away Goin l you g Gre r det mich ail en. e with le@lifeinb s to “Goin alanc g Gre Givea e.co. za e w Entri ay” in th n/Pengu i es cl e ose 3 subject n li 1 Aug ust. ne.

Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things Michael Braungart and William McDonough Most of us recycle, and do our bit for the environment – but what about industry, where the real damage is being done? The industrial approach has always been a ‘cradle to grave’ manufacturing model – which creates huge amounts of waste and pollution. This book challenges the model and instead looks to nature to find a production system which mimics nature’s model, to our commercial and environmental advantage – a system in which waste equals food. First published in 2002, this updated edition is a bold and important manifesto for a new vision of industry.

ISBN: 9780865475878

the directory 13 light news

LIB endorsement

our stamp of approval

LIB gives a big thumbs up to Dr Hauschka’s Intensive Treatment 04. It truly is a miracle mist transforming dull skin overnight.

nature’s hair & body care Highlighting Africa’s most powerful plant ingredients and contributing to the well-being of its rural communities natural heritage is what sets African Organics hair and body care range apart.

Natural products don’t mean accepting ineffective products and the African plants used in this range have had to adapt to some of the harshest conditions on the planet and have thus synthesised some of the most powerful protective ingredients ay w a g known to man. givin ics is erent hair n a g r f African Organics conforms to both BDIH (Germany) dif nO Africa per of six ts. Email c m and Ecocert France standards for 100% natural products, u a .za one h body prod ce.co n la a d contains no synthetic preservatives, petrochemicals or an s einb le@lif an Organic ne. e h ic synthetic fragrances, are biodegradable and PH-balanced, m Afric ject li with “ in the sub ust. and approved

by Phytotrade Africa and endorsed by ug way” e 31 A s Givea lo c Beauty Without Cruelty and the Vegan society. ntries

Soylights also offers custom branding and corporate gift options. For stockists and other information visit www.soylites.co.za, email info@soylites.co.za or call Nicole on 0828588095

! d the chance IN W n a t s aders dle in

! n i w E

island night CrabTree & Evelyn’s new range is inspired by the sensual and balmy Caribbean, where India Hicks creates her magical journey through the senses. The fragrance combines orchids, nighblooming flowers, orange blossom, green island palms and woody musk – a heady combination. Free from parabens, mineral oil and all other chemical additives the range has been awarded the Royal Warrant by HRH Prince of Wales. Available in Eau de Toilette, Creamy Body Wash, Milk Bath, Rich Body Cream, Smooth Body Lotion, scented candle and fragrance diffuser. For stockists email info@crabtree-evelyn.co.za

Soylights candles are soot-free and offer a 50-hour burn time. They are made from the purest, raw GM-free soy and are free of paraffin wax and other additives, making them suitable to use as a therapeutic skin oil for relief from dry skin; cracked heals; eczema; minor abrasions, etc. Non toxic and biodegradable, all the packaging is locally sourced and packaging re-used. Choose from eight different blends including lemongrass, lavender and lime for rejuvenation; rosewood and ylangylang for a romantic touch; geranium and jasmine for harmony and cedar wood and pine (popular blend for men) for tranquility.

soothe your mind

cky re ts can Three lu g one Soyligh ice. Email in n ho c in ir w of f the “Soyrance o g .za with e. a o fr .c e e c h n t n la li a t b c in subje @life ” in the michele y a . w t a s e u iv 1 Aug lights g close 3 Entries

Badger Mind Balms which work in a similar way to aromatherapy, using the fragrance of pure essential oils to bypass the conscious mind and soothe the emotions on a deeper level. This USDA Organic certified range of five balms includes a headache soother, yoga & meditation balm, cheerful mind balm, stress soother and clear mind balm.

Badger organic balms are available at www.naturescolours.com, or call 011 640 5721

! n i w

mind of five ail s t e s o ay. Em ve tw h We ha to give aw .co.za wit s ce ct n je la b balm a u feinb s” in the s li @ le . miche Mind Balm 31 August r te e a g d d a g “B losin line. C

essence of Africa Create harmony between skin, mind and body with the rejuvenating and healing essence of Africa with Africology Spa Treatments: vegan-friendly, made from local ingredients such as Rooibos, Aloe, Marula and African Potato, and fragranced with therapeutic natural essential oils. Renowned for their calming and anti-aging cell renewal effects, Africology Spa Treatments are now available for those who wish to experience all the benefits of a spa, at home.

For stockists call 011 326 4779

wi

PSPC [life in balance]march09 2/23/09 5:38 PM Page 1

n!

Afr ic ha ology m pe is g co n r aro sist wor iving i n m g o th ov awa So f a ath y mi k an erap an A er R7 one wit chele d Bo y ca frico 00, the h “Af @life dy Sc ndle, logy su rico inb rub Bat bje a h l . ct ogy G lanc Ema e.c lin i l i v e o 31 e Au . Ent awa .za y r gu st. ies c ” in los e

these pages proudly brought to you by