THE GIFT ISSUE 2012
YOUR PREMIUM WOMEN’S NATURAL HEALTH MAGAZINE
t a k e m e
vivamagonline.com
SCAN ME FOR THE COVER CONTEST!
ALL NATU R AL
HEALTHY HOLIDAY siv u l c
e
GIFT GUIDE
Jessica Alba
ex
aims to help families enjoy greener, toxin-free homes and talks about her passion for balanced living
Compliments of
publications mail 40678000
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It’s a name families trust!
For product information: 1-800-430-7898 | wnpharmaceuticals.com Find us on your favourite social network: Sunkist is a registered trademark of / est une marque déposée de © 2012 Sunkist Growers, Inc., Sherman Oaks, California, USA 91423
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Stomach-Friendly VITAMIN C Gentle · Effective · Affordable As the body’s primary antioxidant, vitamin C supports so many aspects of human health. We also value it for immune support, particularly in cold and flu season. For all these reasons, it is vital to maintain optimum levels of vitamin C. However, for some people, the acidic nature of vitamin C supplements can cause gastrointestinal problems or heartburn. Non–Acidic Calcium Ascorbate Vitamin C from Sunkist® Vitamins provides the same stomach-friendly immune support as the leading esterified C formula — at a fraction of the price! Non-Acidic Calcium Ascorbate Vitamin C is well absorbed and gentle on the digestive tract. It is buffered with calcium, which helps prevent stomach irritation. Capsules are convenient and easy to swallow.
Sunkist Stomach-Friendly Vitamin C Gentle on the Stomach Non-Acidic Highly Absorbable Easy to Swallow Capsules Buffered with Calcium Great Low Price Available in 500 mg and 1000 mg capsules
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Protect Yourself with the Power of
Oregano Oil A Natural Daily Immune Boost! Active Ingredients
Germ Killing Action!
Prevention
Carvacrol is one of the main compounds in Oregano Oil. More Carvacrol = higher potency. Because the pure oil is very strong, it is often found blended with a carrier oil like olive oil.
The active ingredients in Oregano Oil causes changes in the outer membranes of bacterial cells that lead to the destruction of invading bacteria.
Oregano is traditionally used for respiratory and sinus conditions, as well as a germ fighter against parasites, colds and flu. It also can be used as an antiseptic for the mouth and throat.
How do you like your Oregano Oil? Let us know at: facebook.com/holistahealth holista.ca
HolistaforLife
@HolistaHealth
HolistaforLife
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Potent Natural Compounds
Powerful Antibacterial and Antimicrobial
Useful for Many Healing Applications
Life is Better with a Little Spice! Oregano Oil is far from any ordinary spice. Medicinal Oregano comes from the species Origanum vulgare, while cooking Oregano is usually from Marjoram (Origanum majorana) or Mexican Oregano (Lippia graveolens). This natural botannical has been used for thousands of years and is now backed with modern scientific research that proves its power as a natural antibacterial and antimicrobial. Oregano oil has become a trusted, effective natural treatment against bacteria, viruses, fungus and even parasites. It’s antiseptic and antioxidant power make it useful for a vast range of healing applications.
Take it for Life!
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editor's letter
®
Founder/Editor-in-Chief Olivier Felicio
editorial
West Coast Entertainment Director Bonnie Siegler Managing Editor Lynne Shuttleworth Web Content Editor Joanne Brathwaite Editorial Intern Jennifer Hopf
art/production
Art Director Scott Jordan Designer Sarah Vincett Production Coordinator Erin Booth
contributors Chrissie Blaze • Christine Cho • Lena Grady Chris Habib • Joyce Johnson • Rahim Kanji Margot McKinnon • Sarah O’Connor • Donna Pace Rebecca Rosenblat • Lulu Vibert photographers Justin Coit • Babar Khan Stacey Rosenblum • Joseph Saraceno hair & makeup Joseph Maalouf • Robert Ramos
Good tidings for great celebrations!
stylists Rob Dittmer • Brad Goreski
This is a great time of year when everyone gets together with friends and family and celebrates the holidays by preparing and eating delicious food. President Olivier Felicio
We’re giving the holidays a new meaning. Starting on page 32, we feature full-course meals that will be a hit with all your guests. The chefs who cooked for us have taken care to prepare food that’s healthy and nutritious, as well as enjoyable for everyone. As for gift giving, we’ve got some great ideas to help you out. Eco Chic this month features some intriguing gift ideas for men, women, children and for your home. To increase your knowledge, we’ve included a special educational piece on krill oil. Did you know that it’s one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids available? I encourage you also to sign up for our newsletter so you can get advice directly from the professionals. Please post your questions so the answers can be shared, get exclusive health tips, enjoy special product information, and be part of the Viva community. Happy holidays!
rive gauche media email: viva@publicationpartners.com, telephone: 1-877-547-2246, fax: 905-509-0735, or send your cover label and new address to: VIVA Magazine, 60 Bloor St., West., Suite 1106, Toronto, ON, Canada M4W 3B8 advertising information Olivier Felicio
416-203-7900 x 6107 olivier@vivamagonline.com Jeff Yamaguchi
416-203-7900 x 6122 jeff@GOrgmGO.com
416 203 7900 x 6103 paul@GOrgmGO.com National Account Manager Donna Gallant
416 203 7900 x 6134 donna@GOrgmGO.com
Olivier Felicio
Founder and Editor-in-Chief
Creative Business Coordinator
Send comments to: olivier@vivamagonline.com twitter.com/vivamag
www.vivamagonline.com TM
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Controller/Operations Melanie Seth Finance Administrator Henry Fonseca
National Sales Manager Paul Airut
o i c i l e F r e i v i l O
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Vice President Operations Frank Shoniker
Erin Poredos 416-203-7900 x 6128 erin@GOrgmGO.com VIVA Magazine, 60 Bloor St., West., Suite 1106, Toronto, ON, Canada M4W 3B8
Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40678000. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and any and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. The publisher is not liable to any advertiser for any misprints in advertising not the fault of the publisher and in such an event the limit of the publisher’s liability shall not exceed the amount of the publisher’s charge for such advertising. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or part, without the express written permission of the publisher. Viva Magazine is pleased to review unsolicited submissions for editorial consideration under the following conditions: all material submitted for editorial consideration (photographs, illustrations, written text in electronic or hard copy format) may be used by Viva Magazine Inc. and its affiliates for editorial purposes in any media (whether printed, electronic, Internet, disc, etc.) without the consent of, or the payment of compensation to, the party providing such material. Please direct submissions to the Editor, Viva Magazine.
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The gift issue
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2012
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE
66
features
eco chic holiday gift guide
26
Eco News
27
balanced spending
64
Health EXPERT
86
Beauty EXPERT
96
TERMINOLOGY
97
GROCERY BASKET
98
HOROSCOPES
Cover story Jessica alba
31 | Sensational Holiday Feasts Delicious recipes and dĂŠcor tips 54 | energy kick-starters Get moving and get happy 56 | knocking out muscle pain Strategies to lessen the aches 60 | juggling act Balancing work, family and your health
page 17 eco chic gifts
17
62 | Medicinal teas Top healing drinks 84 | making eyes Give yourself holiday allure 92 | inter-faith holidays Relationship survival guidelines 94 | Viva Italia! Fall in love with Italian hospitality
page 58 celeb health: jeannie mai
page 84 making eyes
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The gift Issue
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2012
Contents HEALTH
54 health tips Cold-weather energizing 56 feature Punching out pain 58 celeb health Jeannie Mai 60 feature Juggling health priorities BALANCED LIVING
65 What’s in your fridge? Rose Reisman 74
Balanced living
Rosie MacLennan Kathleen Robertson Jodi Lynn O’Keefe
BEAUTY
31
Fabulous holiday Feasts
82 GET THE LOOK When the wind blows 84 beauty tips Smouldering smoky eyes YOUR LIFE
90 Inspired living 92 relationships Inter-faith holiday celebrations
page 76 kathleen robertson
page 82 get the look: when the wind blows
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& Just Juice Field Berries Juice combines the finest, freshpressed, 100% organic, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries. Like all of our Just Juice products, our Field Berries Juice is never from concentrate, so that we preserve the fresh, fruit taste and natural, health benefits. The intense, black, red and blue colours of these particular berries place them among the 10 highest ranked, antioxidant-rich foods of Canada. Leading berry researchers have demonstrated that the natural anthocyanins found in field berries can have positive effects against inflammatory responses, age-induced oxidative stress, cardiovascular disorders, neuronal and cognitive brain functions, ocular deficits and a range of degenerative diseases. By combining the naturally-occurring nutritional goodness of these native fruits; we have delivered a powerhouse food engineered by nature.
1.800.265.7245 • www.just-juice.ca
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contributors
CHRISSIE BLAZE
Chrissie Blaze, our resident astrologer, loves to travel the globe. She’s originally from England, where she first learned astrology at the Faculty of Astrological Studies. In 2008, she relocated to Michigan with her husband Gary, where she’s in the process of writing her ninth book. Blaze’s passions include travelling to sacred sites, hiking up holy mountains from Scotland to California and hosting her radio show. Find out what’s in store for you this holiday season, on page 98. PAUL BOEHMER
Chef Paul Boehmer’s commitment to fine cuisine spans more than two decades, including stints at Scaramouche, Bistro 990, Opus Restaurant, Escabèche, Ultra Supper Club and The Spoke Club—all in Toronto. Now, as Chef and owner of Boehmer restaurant, he continues the culinary traditions of his early career, offering affordable upscale dishes. Chef Boehmer was the guest chef for our fantastic food feature on page 32.
Got a story you want to share? Send it to: letters@vivamagonline.com Read more articles on VIVA’s website: www.vivamagonline.com
JOSEPH SARACENO
As an accomplished photographer, Joseph Saraceno continues to push the boundaries of contemporary photography, always striving to capture the ultimate image. Recognized internationally, Saraceno’s work covers a broad spectrum from fashion to product photography. In this issue, he shot our food feature on page 32.
ROB DITTMER
Design guru Rob Dittmer is the founder of Three Event Planning and Design Inc. Previously, he was the lead event planner at Holt Renfrew. He’s also worked with global companies such as Club Monaco, Yahoo! Canada and Microsoft. Dittmer designed the elegant table setting for our food feature on page 32.
Behind the scenes It was a blistering 38-degree day in Los Angeles and a few degrees even warmer in the Beverly Hills canyons where Viva’s November photo shoot took place. Still, with the Santa Ana winds blowing hot, Jessica Alba kept her cool throughout the day, and even kicked it up a notch when her two young daughters showed up for a quick visit. Alba’s lack of glossy, glam veneer was a refreshing reminder that this really famous person is just a normal, regular working mom whose occupation means getting camera ready.
Check out our revamped Facebook and Twitter pages! Just like Viva, they’re fresh and fun and packed with great tips. “Like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for giveaways, behindthe-scenes pictures and exclusive content!
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BMOP12-002 • MAISON ORPHÉE • ANNONCE - FÊTES DES MÈRES • INFO: JH/MH PUBLICATION: MAGAZINE VIVA • FORMAT: 8" X 10,875" • VERSION: ANGLAISE • COULEUR: CMYK • LIVRAISON: 13 JANVIER • PUBLICATION: AVRIL/MAI ET NOVEMBRE
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How do you define
Balanced Living?
Jennifer Hopf Position at Viva Editorial Intern On balanced living Being a Libra, I should know a thing or two about staying balanced. Working toward fulfilling my dream of becoming a writer, while still forced to slave away at a mundane second job to pay the bills, can take up a lot of time and energy. To keep from burning out, I have to make sure to get some “me time.” One of my favourite places to unwind is the kitchen. I find channeling my inner Rachael Ray very therapeutic, and I love to experiment with new recipes. Not only does cooking help me to relax, it ensures my boyfriend and I eat nutritious meals—and as a bonus, we save money by staying in to eat. This keeps my diet and my budget in balance. Finding pleasure in the simple things is the best way to neutralize stress: Taking in a breath of crisp air on a fall day, sinking into a hot bath, laughing about old times with the girls, or tearing up over a good book. I allow myself to indulge in what makes me happy. I also try to get enough sleep and stay close to the family and friends who keep me going and make it all worthwhile.
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giveaway
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You could win
A Decantus® Wine Aerator! Just send us a quick email
Tell us in one se n te n definit c e yo u ion of r “ balan living” ced and se nd it to givea :
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Cut out sulphites
Drinking wine has many health benefits; however, sometimes wine can cause stomach upset or headache. In many cases, it’s the sulphites in the wine that trigger a feeling of illness. By aerating the wine, you can reduce the sulphites. The DECANTUS® produces thousands of very fine bubbles, which immediately aerate the wine and bring out its fullest flavour and bouquet. In fact, a lab study revealed that using the DECANTUS® reduced the amount of free sulphites found in wine by an average of 56 per cent. Shaped like an elegant, classic Greek vase, the DECANTUS® is ideal for entertaining over the holidays (Retails for $99). The gift issue 2012 vivamagonline.com
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How good can you feel? Over 100 botanicals in 20 sweet and spicy blends.
Available in the natural food or tea aisle. www.yogiproducts.com
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ECO CHIC A PERFECT GIFT FOR HER
Purse that pops The Beatrice Shopper is the closest you’ll get to wearing a pop can as an accessory. Th is unique bag is hand-crocheted with more than 1,600 post-consumer recycled pull tabs. Leather straps and gussets add structure to the roomy bag. (Ecoist, $750)
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eco chic
Gifts for her Bamboo for you
Step out of the bath and into a cozy bamboo unisex bathrobe made from a durable blend of 100 per cent organic bamboo and cotton. The breathable fabric offers a quick dry-off, and will keep you comfy and pampered in any season. (Organic Lifestyle, $120)
Baby brown
Let your little one have the royal treatment with the Brown Organic Baby Quilt made from reversible 100 per cent organic, quilted cotton. This ultra-modern quilt is made to last, handcrafted in Ottawa in a synthetic-, pet-and nut-free studio. (SewnNatural, $121.59)
Classic coat
Go from work to play in this tasteful ceiba jacket, versatile and stylish with a draped collar and tied waist. The made-in-Canada coat comes in four colours, with pockets on the seams. You’ll be sure to stay toasty in the 100 per cent organic cotton creation. (Elroy Apparel, $120)
Your back will say “Om”
Achieve inner peace in the utmost comfort with the Zabuton Zafu Meditation Combo available in either 100 per cent organic cotton or hemp. Each Zafu cushion is stuffed with organic buckwheat hulls and conscientiously dyed without harsh chemicals. (LivEco, $135 & up)
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great
TASTE
I
from a great place
t started with a spark of inspiration: a childhood snack of seeds and natural sweetness, made with local ingredients and a mother’s love. It grew with a commitment to creating something special: a wholesome snack bar that would taste fantastic – and would help make the world a healthier place. And so Taste of Nature was born.
ou r ba rs...
Taste of Nature snack bars are made from 100% organic ingredients, sourced from local growers all over the world. Everything you see comes straight from nature. Nothing artificial, no fillers and no preservatives; just fruits, nuts and seeds.
Taste of Natu re is... Local: Whenever we can, Taste of Nature buys directly from small, local, family-owned growers and producers.
Gluten-Free: Taste of Nature bars are made without gluten and are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Organic and Non-GMO: 100% of the ingredients Certified Vegan: You won’t find any animal in every Taste of Nature bar are grown organically products in our bars. and without genetic modification. Guaranteed. Sustainably Produced: From green power to Low-GI: All of our bars are low on the Glycemic recycled packaging, we’re committed to sustainIndex, which means they can help your blood ability every step of the way. sugar stay stable. Delicious: Try one and see!
www.tasteofnature.ca
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eco chic
Gifts for the home
Plump pillows
Make a statement that also adds comfort to your home decor. The Manor12 Floor Cushion is oversized and eco-friendly, hand-printed on heavyweight organic cotton with a worn-in feel and wool backing. The retro prints come in two colour schemes: chocolate brown/ lemon and cherry red/tangerine. (Modern Karibou, $150)
Reflect on this
This one-of-a-kind reclaimed wood mirror doubles as a work of art, constructed from varying types of 80-year-old barn wood. All colours are original and naturally aged. Created in Windsor, Ontario, each mirror comes with a mounting kit, and custom sizes are available. (Craig’s Reclaimed Woodwork, $110)
Birch for back comfort
Even the sleekest furniture pieces can be environmentally friendly. This black lacquered rib chair is constructed from recycled birch wood and features unfixed wooden ribs that can be repositioned for maximum convenience. Talk about a perfect combination of comfort and style! (Inmod, $950)
Eco meets mod
If bold, contemporary furniture has a spot in your living room, you’ll love the sleek, edgy look of the Yamaska Collection Armchair by Atelier HOCH. Inspired by Quebec’s cultural heritage, this chair features salvaged hardwood and cushions plumped with plant-based foam. (Galerie CO, $1,660)
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Proudly Made in Canada
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eco chic
Gifts for him
Step it up
Hemp is one of the strongest fibres on Earth, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that it can be used to make a pair of comfortable, durable boots! The Humboldt Boot boasts waterproof pure hemp canvas uppers, and pure hemp shoelaces! (LivEco, $159.50)
Wool for warmth
What every warm-blooded man living in a cold country needs is a 100 per cent wool sweater like this. Available in cocoa, black or grey, the Ambleside sweater is a cozy wardrobe staple that can be worn with jeans or under a suit jacket. (LivEco, $90)
Cold-weather neck wear
Winter winds won’t bother your man when he’s wearing one of these warm, breathable knit scarves. Made from 42 per cent hemp and 58 per cent flax, they come in a rainbow of cool Earth tones. (LivEco, $36.95)
Top off your look
Look chill while keeping the chills away—this hip hat made from 42 per cent hemp and 58 per cent flax is one-size-fits-all and is naturally warm in cooler weather. Take your pick from six nifty colours. (LivEco, $18.50)
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Start the Ester-C® Challenge today and you could WIN a $2,000 travel voucher. Full details at esterCchallenge.com Or scan here for complete contest details. Contest ends Feb. 28, 2013. Some restrictions apply.
This flu season, when it comes to your immune health:
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VIVA Oct. 1 Jan/Feb issue full page VIVAAPR2012_DOCKET_ADVERTISER_PRODUCT_FP.indd 1
RELEASE YOUR INNER STRENGTH TM
Ester-C and Ester -C logo are reg. TMs to The Ester C Company
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gift guide
1. Shopping gets wild It doesn’t get much more Canadian than this handsome moose tote, part of the Canadian Wildlife and Nature Collection based on our country’s remarkable landscape. The side pocket of the bag is perfect for carrying flowers or a bottle of wine, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the World Wildlife Foundation. (Me+You, $34) 2. Healthy brews Ward off the shivers all winter long as you sip on these nicely flavoured teas. They’re not only calming and aromatic—they’re also great for boosting your health. Yogi Tea (1 box, 16 tea bags, $4.99) 3. A sharp idea Made from recycled, used newspapers, these colourful pencils showcase endangered animals
Viva Gift Guide
in all their wild glory. Ideal as stocking stuffers or quick gifts to your friends’ children, they’re easy to use and hard to lose. (O’Bon, $9 for a pack of 2) 4. Not stumped on style These delightful Handmade Candle Holders are crafted from dead standing juniper trees from Golden, British Columbia. The naturally weathered and knotted wood has a striking marbleized colour and rich aroma. (WoodaCooda, $15.81) 5. Go cocoa loco With an array of tantalizing flavours to please everyone from chocolate lovers to occasional indulgers, these bars won’t last long! Certified organic, fair trade and kosher. Camino Fair Trade Chocolate Bars (100 g, $4.69 each)
1
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5
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gift guide
} VIVA
6. Seeds of friendship Say “thank you” in a way that lets the recipient watch your appreciation grow— literally. These cards are made from postconsumer materials and contain seeds that blossom into beautiful wildflowers when planted. Fresh Flowers Plantable Thank You Card Set (Botanical PaperWorks, $24.95) 7. Cut out sulphites Aerate your wine with the DECANTUS® and reduce the sulphites—these are known to cause stomach upset and headaches. Shaped like an elegant, classic Greek vase, the DECANTUS® is ideal for entertaining over the holidays. (VINEARIUS, $99.95)
You could win this! See page 15
8. Wrap it up! Wrap those presents without feeling guilty about using so much paper. Cascades makes rustic, yet pretty wrapping paper in Canada from 100 per cent recycled paper. The rolls come without a cardboard core, to save on packaging. (4, 10 metre rolls, $12)
9
9. Tea time You don’t have to be a tea granny to enjoy these intensely flavourful teas. They’re easily brewed up for quiet evenings or highspeed mornings. Try the festive flavours. Four O’clock Tea (1 box, 16 tea bags, $3.89) 10. Your best face Nourish and moisturize your face with rich natural products for day and night. DermaE Hyaluronic Acid Day Creme (56 g, $34.69), DermaE Hyaluronic Acid Rehydrating Serum (60 ml, $33.99) and DermaE Hyaluronic & Pycnogenol Eye Crème (14 g, $21.99)
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eco news
for kids with
heart Barbra Streisand set up the Women’s Cardiovascular Research and Education Program to fund work at Cedars Sinai’s Women’s Heart Center back in 2008. She’s contributed $5 million of her own money. In June, she staged the endowment’s biggest fundraiser yet at her Malibu home. Bill Clinton, who has battled heart disease, was the guest of honour, and tickets topped out at $100,000 per couple. Guests included Josh Groban, Berry Gordy, David Foster and Sumner Redstone.
Sheltering animals
Giving
Nicole Kidman manned the phones during the Gold Week Telethon benefitting the Sydney Children’s Hospital in Australia. She also contributed $100,000 of her own money toward the $2.5 million that was raised at the telethon.
Miranda Lambert (a Viva cover celebrity this year) gave her time and talent to headline the 5th annual Cause for the Paws charity concert in Texas, which raised more than $205,000 in donations for the animal-shelter fund.
Supporting
creativity
Red Hot Chili Peppers recently collaborated with Jeff Tweedy of Wilco for a fashionable tee with the newly launched Don Quixote t-shirt by Out of Print. A significant portion of the proceeds will support the 826 National non-profi t organization that inspires inner city kids to write creatively through innovative programs and classes.
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balanced spending
goodness
Sudsy
} VIVA
When you buy Consonant’s Help SomeBody Soap, all sales are donated to the
Canadian Breast Cancer Support Fund, for cancer patients who may be struggling financially. The lavish bar is scented with
lavender and lemongrass oils, and just like all other Consonant products, it’s 100 per cent
natural. Free of chemicals and carcinogens, this feel-good soap for the body and soul
ties in nicely with Consonant’s “Think Pink
Live Green” philosophy. It retails for $12 and
Mermaid mission
is available at the company’s flagship store
in Toronto, boutique stores across North America and online.
Last Night I Swam With a Mermaid is more than a typical children’s book; it’s meant to educate the next generation about how important marine biology—and water—is to the future of our planet. The creators of this book believe introducing children at an early age to the wonders of the sea, using a beautiful, mythological creature to draw them in, will help raise their environmental awareness. Author Kimberly Muller’s story is highlighted by the stunning photography of her husband, Michael Muller. A portion of the proceeds benefit Philippe Cousteau’s EarthEcho International, a non-profit organization designed to empower youth to protect and restore ocean health. ($25.50)
More than $10,000 in prizes Win a trip for 2 to Switzerland + Visit www.avogel.ca
No purchase required. Contest rules and regulations on web site.
The gift issue 2012 vivamagonline.com
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Wolfgang Puck He’s gone from Austria to the world stage. Today Wolfgang Puck is an award-winning chef, celebrated restaurateur, philanthropist and Emmy winner.
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FOOD
Vanilla thriller
No doubt about it: A splash of vanilla fl avouring can make almost any dessert taste amazing—bread pudding, muffi ns, pancakes, and of course, ice cream—all get an added kick from this tropical spice. Choose either whole vanilla pods that contain the beans used as fl avouring, or vanilla extract, the liquid, more convenient form. Originally cultivated in Mexico, vanilla beans have anti-infl ammatory and pain relieving properties.
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food
A NIGHT OF
holiday feasting DELIGHT Beauty, comfort, style and delicious taste come together for an elegant holiday feast food creation by paul boehmer photography by joseph saraceno tabletop styling by rob dittmer
whenever possible, it's best to use 100 per cent organic ingredients
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Boehmer' s Baby Beet Salad (See recipe on page 35)
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Roasted But ternut Squash Soup (See recipe on page 35)
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Boehmer’s Baby Beet Salad
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
6 of each: red, yellow and candy cane baby beets 10 ounces (300 ml) of goat cheese 1 small container of baby arugula 1 bunch of chives, chopped Salt and pepper to taste
1 large butternut squash (or 2 small) 1 tablespoon (15 ml) melted butter 1 medium onion, very finely diced 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter 3 cups (720 ml) chicken stock 1 cup (240 ml) 35% cream Cinnamon, to taste (about ¼-½ teaspoon (1.25 – 2.5 ml) ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) Maldon sea salt ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup ½ cup whipped (118 ml) cream (garnish) 2 tablespoons (30 ml) maple syrup 2 tablespoons (30 ml) pancetta thinly sliced (sautéed until crispy)
(serves 4)
For the vinaigrette
⅓ cup (80 ml) cranberry plum vinegar ¾ cup (180 ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped shallots 1. In three separate pots, boil beets for 20-25 minutes. Place under cold running water. Once cool, peel the beets with your hands. (To prevent your skin from staining, wear rubber gloves). Quarter the beets and place them in a mixing bowl. 2. Make vinaigrette by mixing the cranberry plum vinegar, vegetable oil and chopped shallots. 3. In two separate bowls, generously—and gently—coat beets and baby arugula with vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper. 4. Place arugula on the plates first. Gently toss beets and place them in the centre of the baby arugula. Top each with a dollop of goat cheese and sprinkle with chopped chives.
1. Cut butternut squash lengthwise and remove seeds. Preheat oven to 375˚F (190˚C). Brush insides and outsides of squash halves with vegetable oil, season with salt and pepper and place, cut sides down, on cookie sheet or in roasting pan. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until squash is tender. 2. In a large saucepan, melt butter and add finely diced onion. Cook until onion is softened. Remove from heat until squash is finished cooking. 3. When squash is cooked, remove from oven and spoon it out into the saucepan with the butter and onion, discarding the squash skin. Add enough chicken stock to the saucepan to cover the squash by about one inch (2.5 cm). Return to heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Add maple syrup, salt, black pepper and a pinch of cinnamon. 4. Puree with a hand blender or a bit at a time in a regular blender. Now, add as much 35% cream as desired to the soup. Cook over low heat just until warmed through (do not boil). Salt and pepper to taste. 5. Garnish with whipped cream and crispy pancetta.
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Ontario-Grown Chanteclaire Rouge Chicken (See recipe on page 39)
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Banana Bread Pudding (See recipe on page 39)
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Ontario-Grown Chanteclaire Rouge Chicken
Banana Bread Pudding
2 tablespoons (30 ml) oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed with their skins on 2 Chanteclaire Rouge Chickens cut in half, or 4 chicken breasts, skin on Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper A few sprigs of thyme Lemon juice 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil 3 large shallots peeled and finely sliced ¼ cup (60 ml) dry white wine 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock ¼ cup (60 ml) 35% cream 2 heirloom carrots peeled and sliced on an angle about a halfinch thick 2 parsnips peeled and sliced on an angle about a half-inch (1.25 cm) thick 12 fingerling potatoes 12 Brussel sprouts
1 loaf, day-old bread (artisanal preferably) approximately 3 pounds (1.36 kg) 8 whole eggs 32 fluid ounces (1 litre) whole milk 1 ½ cups (192 g) white granulated sugar 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cinnamon 2 teaspoon (10 ml) vanilla extract 4 tablespoon (60 ml) butter (melted) 4 ripe bananas
For the chicken
(serves 10-12)
1. Slice bread into 1 inch (2.5 cm) cubes, set aside 2. In a separate bowl add and mix: eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, melted butter and bananas. 3. Combine the sliced bread and wet mixture, and refrigerate for 1 hour (overnight preferably). 4. Place the finished mixture into a container for baking. 5. Bake at 350˚F (176˚C) for 45 minutes, checking every 15 minutes for doneness. A knife or skewer will easily slide in and out without residue. 6. Serve warm.
1. Preheat the oven to 425˚F (218˚C). Infuse the oil with the garlic in an ovenproof pan over medium heat for 2 minutes, and then season the chicken with the sea salt and black pepper. Fry the chicken, skin side down, in the oil with the thyme until the skin is golden and crisp. 2. Turn the chicken over, add butter to the pan, and sear the other side while spooning the melted butter and oil over for 1-2 minutes. Turn the chicken over again, so that the skin is facing upwards, then roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. For the sauce
1. Heat a little olive oil in a pan and sauté the shallots and garlic for 5-6 minutes until golden. Add the wine and chicken stock, and boil for 8-10 minutes until reduced by half. Add the cream and simmer until thickened to the consistency of single cream. Pass through a sieve and season; return the sauce to the pan. Add thyme last. 2. Put the chicken aside while you reheat the sauce. Place chicken halves or slice each chicken breast in two horizontally. Arrange on warm plates, pour sauce around and spoon on the vegetables. For the root vegetables
1. Parboil potatoes in salted water for 3 minutes, and then add the rest of the root vegetables for 2 minutes and strain. Place a sauté pan over medium heat, add butter and root vegetables. Sauté until lightly browned, and season with salt and pepper.
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Setting a sensational table In creating a complete table setting for our holiday feast, designer Rob Dittmer says his goal was to make the table appear elegant, well organized and functional for guests. He decorated the rustic-looking holiday table with cork, berries, cabbage, acorns and fresh greens, with lots of woodsy textures. His idea was to keep it very “Canadiana chic with items that are inexpensive and natural, like handpainted acorns, fresh greens from the garden and lots of candlelight to create a soft glow in the room. I built the centrepieces up high for dramatic interest.“
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Roots man Chef Paul Boehmer cooks with passion, skill—and a love of beets and carrots by lynne shuttleworth • photograph by joseph saraceno
W
hen it's cold outside, food should warm our bodies and spirits, as well as nourish us. That’s what chef Paul Boehmer had in mind when he put together a feast for our Viva food feature. Each course, from the butternut squash soup, to the Chanteclaire Rouge chicken and the beet salad, and then the mouthwatering bread pudding, is meant to create a pleasurable and comforting experience.
A fan of farms
During a rare quiet moment at Boehmer, his spacious warehousestyle restaurant on Toronto's hip Ossington strip, the top chef takes a moment to reflect on his ideas about winter dining and holiday feasts.
Interestingly, the demand for gluten-free food has not affected Chef Boehmer very much. That's because he doesn't use flour in his sauces. Rather, he makes "all-natural reductions," resulting in more intensely flavoured sauces.
"In wintertime, our bodies go into hibernation," he says. "So we have to feed and nourish ourselves to be out in the cold and snow."
Since he was a teenager, learning coooking techniques like that has been Boehmer's passion. "I love food and I really love cooking it," he says. His father, who was raised in Indonesia on a sugar plantation, was a big influence—he loved to cook, and instilled in the younger Boehmer that it was worthwhile to take the time to cook well, to cook together and to share meals as a family.
Boehmer's favourite winter food is root vegetables such as carrots and beets, with cabbage running a close second.
When he gets the chance, Boehmer will go to friends' farms and pick his own vegetables, pulling them right out of the ground and bringing them back to the city to cook in his restaurant. If those vegetables are organic, all the better. He says he tries to use as much organic produce as he can, noting, "You really see a difference in the flavour."
Eating local
Through all four seasons, he's keenly interested in supporting local farmers. "I try to use local ingredients as much as possible," he says. "I create new menus every week, depending on what's available."
"This is how I learned to eat," Boehmer says. "I learned about wellbalanced meals, and using lots of vegetables and making salads, and about flavours." Dad's idea
Over his 30-year career in the kitchens of Toronto, Boehmer has stuck with his philosophy of using fresh, unprocessed ingredients and keeping things simple. "I cook everything from scratch," he says. "People think cooking that way is harder; it's not. It's the best way to eat. You can easily make your own soup—butternut squash, potato, even bean soup…You can go to the supermarket and see what's local and unprocessed. Buy a head of romaine lettuce and chop it up for a salad. Get fresh-cut meat from your local butcher—this is how you should be eating."
Noticing that his son at 14 had a knack for cooking, the senior Boehmer suggested that he take it up as a career. However, it wasn't until he was 19 that he came around to the idea. He first cooked for a late-night club crowd at a downtown café, and then, through a family connection, he met up with well-known chef Michael Stadtlander, who gave him the training he needed to move up in the culinary field. After those two apprentice years, Boehmer gained more experience working in some of the best restaurants of Toronto, including Bistro 990, Scaramouche, Opus and Ultra. Now running the show at his own restaurant, Boehmer continues to cook "simple food that people really enjoy."
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SWEET
TALK
At the end of a spectacular dinner, enjoy relaxing conversation, and these delectable desserts
pastries courtesy of bobbette and belle; 1121 queen street east, toronto created and directed by lulu vibert photographed by inked kenny assisted by tony fong • james thompson • andrej gordovic table decor by rob dittmer assistant to creative director: cora kouchak
WHENEVER POSSIBLE, IT'S BEST TO USE 100 PER CENT ORGANIC INGREDIENTS
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Pumpkin Tart
with Sweetened Whipped Cream, Cinnamon Sprinkle and Toasted Pecans For the tart dough 1 ½ cups (365 ml) all purpose flour ⅛ teaspoon (.5 ml) salt ½ cup unsalted butter (120 ml), room temperature ¼ (60 ml) cup sugar 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with the salt. Place the butter in the bowl of your electric mixer and beat until softened. Add sugar and beat until light and fluff y. Gradually add the egg. Add the flour mixture all at once and mix just until it forms a ball. Flatten the pastry into a disk, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes or just until firm. 2. Lightly butter and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom. Once the pastry has chilled, evenly pat onto the bottom and up the sides of the tart pan. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for about 15 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Lightly prick bottom of pastry crust with a fork (this will prevent the dough from puffing up as it bakes). Place tart pan on a larger baking pan and bake crust for 5 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350˚F (176˚C) and continue to bake the crust for 15 minutes or until crust is dry and lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool. For the filling 2 cups (480 ml) pumpkin puree ¾ cup (177 ml) condensed milk ⅛ cup (30 ml) sour cream ¾ tsp (375 ml) ground cinnamon ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) ground ginger ⅛ tsp (.5 ml) allspice 1 large egg ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) vanilla extract 1. Preheat the oven to 325˚F (160˚C). In a large bowl, whisk everything together until smooth. Fill the par-baked tart shell with the pumpkin pie filling. Make sure the filling is spread evenly throughout the tart shell. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the filling is set. 2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. 3. Once cooled, garnish with sweetened whipped cream, cinnamon and toasted pecans.
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Lemon Curd Tart with Toasted Meringue
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Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes
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Baked Apple Crumble with Toasted Oat Streusel and Fleur de Sel Caramel
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special information feature
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES
Make your own gluten-free, fair trade and organic chocolate truffles—they’re so delicious and easy to make, your taste buds will ask for more! • by camino Makes approx. 20 truffles
Ingredients 1 bag of Cuisine Camino Semi-sweet chocolate chips* (225g) ½ cup of organic whipping cream or fair trade and/or organic coconut milk (vegan option) 1 tsp of organic vanilla extract 1 cup of Cuisine Camino Bittersweet chocolate chips* 4 tsp of organic margarine *Now available gluten free and allergen free!
directions 1. Empty a package of Cuisine Camino Semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heat resistant glass bowl. In a saucepan, heat the whipping cream—or the coconut milk—over medium heat until it reaches boiling point. Pour the cream over the chocolate chips and mix with a wooden spoon. For a uniform texture, place the bowl on low heat and stir until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. 2. Add vanilla extract and let the mixture (ganache) cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for 1.5 to 2 hours. Texture should be firm. 3. Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, form 20 balls of ganache (they don’t have to be perfectly round at that stage) and place them on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Refrigerate for 1 hour. 4. Using a double boiler, melt Cuisine Camino Bittersweet chocolate chips with the margarine. On low heat, keep stirring until a smooth chocolate texture is reached. Remove the cookie sheet from the fridge. With your fingers, gently adjust the ganache balls to make them rounder if necessary.
5. Dip the ganache balls into the melted chocolate to coat them and place them back onto the cookie sheet. If the melted chocolate becomes harder, return the bowl to the double boiler and stir until texture is soft again. If you would like to add toppings onto your truffles, do it while the chocolate coating is still warm so the toppings can stick to the chocolate. See our topping suggestions below. 6. Refrigerate truffles for another 20 to 30 min. Truffles are best served cold.
Suggested Toppings Depending on your food allergies, intolerances and your tastes, you can be as creative as you want to make your own perfect truffles. Camino suggests the following toppings: cocoa powder, shredded coconut, cinnamon, chili powder, nuts (whole or crumbs), pistachio and sea salt, or simply sea salt. Enjoy!
Cuisine Camino - brought to you by a Canadian Co-operative - is a family of Fairtrade and Organic ingredients perfect for everything from home baking to gourmet delights. Cuisine Camino supports sustainable agricultural practices, local community development and partnerships with Central and South American family farmers. Connecting land and livelihood, Cuisine Camino brings organic goodness to your kitchen! Learn more about Camino and Cuisine Camino at: www.tasteofcamino.com
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Decadent chocolate with a social conscience. Fair Trade and Organic, making the world a more sustainable place one piece at a time.
Good in more ways than one. Unparalleled in taste, Camino chocolate bars are made with natural and ethically sourced ingredients from Central and South American family farmers. Certified Fairtrade and Organic, finally you can feel at peace about the food you eat! Brought to you by a Canadian Co-operative.
www.tasteofcamino.com
Try all 12 of our delicious varieties! Panama Extra Dark, Raspberries, Milk with Sea Salt, Caramel Crunch, Coconut, Milk, Bittersweet, Dark, Almonds, Mint, Orange and Espresso.
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Scan me for more info!
12-11-02 4:10 PM
Designed by nature. Proven by science.
Fight cold and flu with A.Vogel : • Clinically proven effective and safe • Prevents infection, relieves symptoms, builds immunity • Fresh ingredients = maximum benefits All medicine comes from nature, ours is just fresher than the rest.
Win a trip for two to Switzerland ! Visit www.avogel.ca
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HEALTH
Weatherproofing Colder weather can trigger a drop in energy levels, joint and muscle pain, and challenges in juggling multiple priorities. In fact, it takes a little more effort to stay healthy and happy as winter approaches. The trick? Surround yourself with great people, eat well, take supplements and stay active.
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Energy Spending too much time on the couch these days? Liven up with these quick tips for a more energetic you by dr. joyce johnson nd
W
ith the fall weather here in full force, many of us are looking for ways to boost our energy. And, as the days get shorter, we may start to feel run-down and de-energized.
Do the seasons affect your energy level? It’s natural to want to stay warm and cozy during the winter months; however, this does not mean you should feel you have no energy and want to sleep more. Once you’ve determined that your lack of energy is not related to any medical condition, it’s time to focus on diet, lifestyle and supplements.
• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables • Treat yourself to Omega-3-rich foods such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, nuts—especially walnuts—and seeds • Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or herbal teas • Eat small portions, and eat often • Choose low-glycemic carbohydrates such as whole grains, brown rice and high-fibre foods—these boost energy levels by minimizing blood sugar swings • Avoid foods and beverages that drain your energy, such as fatty, sugary snacks, salty snacks and alcohol (maximum of one glass of red wine daily)—and limit caffeine beverages to no more than two to three cups per day
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Prices may vary by location.
FOOD TO FIRE YOU UP:
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Designed by nature. Proven by science.
SUPPLEMENTS TO PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP:
• • • • • • • •
High-potency multivitamin and mineral complex B complex Vitamin C Iron: Check with your doctor to see if you’re deficient Coenzyme Q10 Zinc Magnesium Panax ginseng: To avoid potential hormonal effects, do not take for more than three months • Ashwaganda • Astragalus • Green tea ENLIVENING LIFESTYLE CHANGES:
• • • • • •
Take some “me” time Give yourself regular work breaks—get up, walk around, take deep breaths and stretch Take power naps Exercise regularly Go outside during daylight hours Get lots of sleep in a well-ventilated room
Echinacea: Harness the flower power Modern science has proven conclusively what Native Americans have known for centuries- that echinacea is a powerful weapon in the fight against cold and flu. Thanks to extensive clinical testing, we now know that echinacea functions in two ways: 1. It strengthens the body’s immune response, stimulating the production of antiviral agents to prevent colds in the first place. 2. It decreases inflammation that occurs when the body does catch a virus- inflammation that you feel as the common symptoms of a cold- congestion, sore throat, headaches, etc.
give these a try
Inno-Vite Inno-Q-nol (30 softgels 100 mg, $39.99)
Not all echinacea is created equal
NOTE
Don’t forg et to consult yo ur healthcare prac tit ioner for any heal th concerns.
Prices may vary by location.
Adult Essentials Advanced B-Complex (90 gummies, $15.99)
Echinaforce® comes in a variety of formatstincture, tablets and orange-flavoured chewables- great for kids. You can choose the one that’s perfect for you. For further information, including links to clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of Echinaforce®, visit www.avogel.ca
Body Plus Phytoberry Protein (360 g, $29.99) New Nordic Melissa Dream™Calmative and Sleep Aid (60 tablets, $34.95)
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Researchers have determined that extracts produced with fresh plants, like A.Vogel’s Echinaforce®, have a concentration of ingredients that is up to two and a half times greater than those made from dried plants.
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health feature
Knocking out muscle pain
VIVA }
Boosting certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids can help relieve aches and pains by brian davies, bsc, nd
Sorting out the cause of sore muscles often requires a keen understanding of the body and a thorough evaluation of several different body systems. In most cases, though, natural symptom relief can easily be achieved by boosting certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids. How’s your alignment?
Structure can play a big part in chronic muscle pain, especially when muscle soreness occurs only on one side or is localized to a specific area of the body. A structural analysis may be done by a knowledgeable medical professional, involving body measurements to determine
ways to improve overall posture. Repetitive strain on a certain muscle group from improper posture can result in irritation. This irritation can be prevented when the body is in better alignment. Time to evaluate
Chronic muscle pain in both sides of the body or in more than a few muscle groups is likely an indication of more than misalignment. People who have chronic muscle soreness may need a more thorough evaluation to determine the cause of their discomfort. Evaluations should be performed by a professional who understands functional medicine; they’ll look for immunological and/or hormonal causes of chronic muscle pain. Eat your vegetables
Muscles are one of the body’s largest energy-producing organs. When energy production cannot happen efficiently, metabolic waste products can build up, leading to
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M
uscle pain, known as “myalgia,” can be a symptom of many different conditions in the body. Sometimes it’s short lived, as a result of overuse. However, most of my clients are concerned with chronic muscle aches and pains resulting from something more significant.
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infl ammation and pain. Muscles also need a large amount of blood flow to keep up with waste elimination and oxygen requirements. Protein and vegetables have the macronutrients that our bodies need to support circulation and muscle function.
Some specific key nutrients involved in muscle repair and function are the minerals magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. All the B vitamins, along with vitamins C, D, E and co-enzyme Q10 (also known as ubiquinone), are also important in supporting muscle health.
SUGGESTED SUPPLEMENTS
Specific amino acids that help with circulation and improve muscle function and repair are taurine, glutamine, arginine, carnitine, methionine, creatine and the branched chain amino acids, leucine, isoleucine and valine.
Breaking down proteins and extracting minerals requires a healthy digestive system and adequate stomach acid production. When supplements support a noticeable reduction in muscle pain in the presence of a healthy diet, it may be that you are not breaking down and absorbing your nutrients properly. In cases like this, a trial of digestive enzymes and stomach acid replacement, in the form of betaine hydrochloric acid, may be worth looking into.
Finally, a special sugar called d-ribose may be helpful for people with chronic muscle pain and energy concerns, as it helps produce muscle energy.
Key nutrients for muscle pain NUTRIENT
SUPPLEMENTAL DOSE AND USE 300-600 mg per day in
Magnesium
divided doses away from calcium and food
Potassium Calcium Taurine L-Carnitine B vitamins Vitamin D3 Arginine
TARGET RESPONSE
NATURAL SOURCES AND CONCERNS
Dramatic relief of muscle pain
Vegetables
and cramps in almost all cases
Caution: may cause diarrhea
Improves muscle cramping
1 mg per day
Vegetables, nuts and meat
when deficient
500 mg per day away from
May help relieve cramping in
magnesium
some people
1,000-3,000 mg per day
May relieve muscle cramping in
away from food
some people
500-2,000 mg per day away
May help with certain types of
from food
muscle pain
Vitamin B complex 100
Found to relieve muscle
with food
cramping in some people
2,000-5,000 IU per day if
May improve muscle weakness
deficient
and pain
3,000-6,000 mg per day away from food
Vegetables and nuts Meat and seafood Meat and seafood Meat, grains and nutritional yeast Fish and seafood NOTE
Improves circulation to muscles Meat, nuts and grains
Lakota Arthritis Topical Pain Reliever (88 ml, $19.99)
give these a try
Don’t forg et to consult yo ur healthcare prac tit ioner for any heal th concerns.
Prices may vary by location.
Omega Alpha Liquid Magnesium (500 ml, $24.99)
Organika Vitamin B Complex (100 tablets, $21.99)
Webber Naturals Co-enzyme Q 10 (60 mg, 30 capsules, $10.99)
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Photo courtesy The Style Network
Colour magic
Style expert Jeannie Mai inspires with colours to boost health by bonnie seigler
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celeb health
S
tanding 5’4” tall, Jeannie Mai talks big when it comes to her own health and empowering women with style and fashion tips. The host and style expert from Style Network’s How Do I Look?, Mai has developed and coined the term “Wearapy” to inspire and boost self-esteem through colours, patterns and trends usually found in your own closet. “I think women are so multifaceted with many different challenges and daily responsibilities that it can lead to stressful lives,” says the California native. “I truly believe if somebody is feeling lethargic, unmotivated and generally blah, that a beautiful, vibrant yellow or a citrus melon will inject energy into her day and make others respond to her differently.” RED FOR PRESENTATIONS
Photo courtesy The Style Network
The same can be said for wearing appropriate colours and patterns in the workplace. “When I’m pitching a new concept, I wear something passionate like purple or red if I want to stand in front of people for a presentation,” Mai says. “Red lips even make a big difference.” In Ayurveda, practitioners use coloured light and fabric to heal energy imbalances that are causing specific health problems. Bright reds actually cheer up depressed people and make them feel more energetic, outgoing and ready to move, wihout fatigue. “Making sure I stock my closet and my mentality with bright, rousing colours and textures helps me stay empowered while striking a balanced lifestyle,” she continues. Confessing to a 5- to 10-pound weight fluctuation “depending on if I’m working in front of the camera,” Mai just likes to feel healthy. To maintain her weight, a thrice-weekly one-anda-half mile hike keeps her in balance. Plus, she incorporates walks into her daily routine. “Today I’m meeting my manager, so I’m walking to the offices. If I’m hiking or
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walking enough, I feel refreshed and focused. The number weight isn’t as important to me as my clothing weight.” BANISHING LETHARGY
Six years ago, Mai omitted gluten from her diet due to symptoms ranging from extreme lethargy requiring afternoon naps, to eczema. “I also had sleepless nights and mood swings. I’m not saying eliminating gluten totally healed my eczema or other symptoms, but a woman needs to access what is correct for her blood type and body type.” Mai’s nutritional staples run the gamut from dark green vegetables such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts to Beanitos. “I also love dark chocolate, so there’s that in my kitchen plus macaroons because they are wheat free,” she says. “And I love King Arthur pancake batter. Ribs, chicken and a nice glass of wine…I eat a lot of protein and grilled vegetables.” Research backs up Mai’s chocolate love, showing that eating high-quality chocolate 1-2 times a week is good for the heart. IT’S A CINCH
If Mai is feeling particularly good about her body, she will pull out one of her favourite “Stop staring” dresses or a maxi dress. “Cinching a maxi is very important because every woman has a waistline. Sometimes I don’t want something to cinch me—then I’ll put it low and give it a blouson feel,” she says. So what are her must-haves before leaving the house every day? “A kiss from my husband,” she says, blushing, “accessories to bring my outfit together and make it look different from another person who might be wearing the same dress or ensemble…and a pair of fl ats. I don’t think it’s healthy to walk around all day in heels. It’s all about feeling healthy.”
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health feature
act
Juggling
NOTE
Don’t forg et to consult yo ur healthcare prac tit ioner for any heal th concerns.
Most of us know how to live right— the hard part is juggling our priorities by sarah o’connor
s a practicing naturopathic doctor and a new mom, Dr. Corinne Brown of Brownroots Wellness in Beamsville, Ontario understands how challenging it can be to find a balance between work, family life and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
“Lack of time is an obstacle to everyone trying to live the optimal lifestyle,” Brown acknowledges. “It impacts all aspects of health— not enough time to shop and cook the way you want, not enough time to sleep…or exercise the way you want, not to mention adding variety and excitement to your diet and exercise routine so they don’t become mundane!” It’s common to feel like you’re dropping a lot of balls as you attempt to juggle all your responsibilities along with your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. There are, after all, only so many hours in the day, and even the best plans sometimes get derailed. Especially at this time of year, when the holidays begin squeezing schedules even more, you may feel overwhelmed by your giant “to-do” list.
Tackling time crunches
If things are getting too busy, and you don’t know how you’re going to fit everything in, here are some simple tips to see you through: The Internet, a great source of healthy recipes and workout tips, can also be a key source of support when your commitment to health is under strain. Look for blogs that cater to women like you who are trying to do it all. Reading about other women’s struggles and successes can provide inspiration and insight. A good place to start is www.vivamagonline.com. Smartphone apps are another cool tool. Whether it’s an app that makes it easier to eat well on the go, such as “Is That Gluten Free?” or one that teaches you how to meditate, such as Headspace, apps offer personalized instruction and feedback when and where you need it most. “I try to steer my patients toward dairy-free, sugar-free and sometimes even gluten-free diets, and I give them a 90/10 rule,”
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“If you use that as a general rule for all areas of health so that 90 per cent of the time you eat healthily, get eight hours of sleep and exercise 45 minutes a day, then the other 10 per cent won’t have much of an impact at all because you are in an overall state of balanced health.”
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Managing stress is a key component of a healthy lifestyle, so don’t let your good intentions backfi re. Brown encourages her patients to be kind to themselves when things don’t go as planned. “Being stressed out is worse for your health than not going for that run,” she says. “Be realistic about the things you can and cannot do, and make peace with them. No one is perfect, so try to focus on the things you are doing to make yourself healthier.”
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says Brown. “As long as they are eating responsibly 90 per cent of the time, then they can treat themselves and indulge little cravings the other 10 per cent of the time.
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top traditional medicine teas
I
have had the privilege of practicing naturopathic medicine for the past nine years. During that time I have come to use herbal medicines in many different dosage forms: tinctures, capsules and tablets, topical creams and teas. There is a selection of herbs that I only prescribe in tea form. I have found tea to be the best method of delivery for a number of herbs, providing reliable, safe and cost effective relief for several common health concerns. Some of my favourite teas are described below.
by philip rouchotas, msc, nd
benefits for nausea. Fortunately, much of the science validates ginger for a very important population: pregnant women. The benefit is not limited to pregnancy, as ginger relieves nausea of virtually any cause. I especially like to prescribe ginger for nausea associated with chemotherapy. Using powdered ginger in a tea bag, or boiling chunks of fresh ginger for about 10 minutes, both work equally well for making the tea. Chamomile and Peppermint
Licorice
Licorice has a long history of use for a wide array of gastrointestinal problems. It is available in many different dosage forms, yet tea remains my favourite method for prescribing this herb. Licorice tea is appropriate for acid reflux, gas/bloating/cramping, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases and generalized gastrointestinal discomfort. Licorice is also the herb of choice for the treatment of “adrenal fatigue,” a state more prevalent in today’s society, brought about by chronic stress. There is an aspect of caution with licorice; long-term use can cause blood pressure to rise. Anyone with high blood pressure should not drink licorice tea. If you are drinking licorice tea, you should have your blood pressure assessed on at least a monthly basis. Ginger
A very large and strong body of science supports the role of ginger for the treatment of nausea. While many of the studies use ginger capsules, or dried ginger, ginger tea likewise delivers incredible
These two herbs in combination as a tea benefit a wide array of gastrointestinal concerns, most significantly for managing constipation. I instruct patients to place a bag of each tea into a mug, add boiling water, then leave the tea bags in the mug the entire time they drink the tea. This tea is not an immediate solution for constipation. Instead, drinking the tea once or twice per day will resolve constipation, and prevent it from coming back, over a period of days. It usually takes two to three days for the tea to kick in. It does not work like classic laxatives, which force water into the colon. Instead, chamomile and peppermint relax the muscle layer that lines the colon. Tenseness of this muscle layer is the most common cause of constipation, and chamomile and peppermint provide a gentle solution for relaxing this important muscle. I will often combine this tea with a recommendation for low dose magnesium supplementation: as little as 100 mg of magnesium per day, up to 300 mg of magnesium per day. The tea alone will resolve most cases of constipation. The tea plus magnesium has resolved even the most difficult and stubborn cases of constipation. References: Asl MN, Hosseinzadeh H. Review of pharmacological effects of Glycyrrhiza sp. and its bioactive compounds. Phytother Res. 2008 Jun;22(6):709-24. Chaiyakunapruk N, Kitikannakorn N, Nathisuwan S, Leeprakobboon K, Leelasettagool C. The efficacy of ginger for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting: a meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jan;194(1):95-9. Matthews A, Dowswell T, Haas DM, Doyle M, O'Mathúna DP. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Sep 8;(9):CD007575. Valussi M. Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2012 Mar;63 Suppl 1:82-9.
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health expert
health advice from the pros dr. brian davies, bsc, nd
What is your take on chronic fatigue? I am tired all the time and wonder if I have it. Is it stress-related? – Marie, Kingston, Ont. Dear Marie, With chronic fatigue syndrome, it’s important to work with an experienced healthcare provider who understands functional medicine and how to manage your expectations. Stress can definitely lead to chronic levels of fatigue through the depletion of certain nutrients and resulting hormone imbalances. Emotional and physical stress can cause exhaustion. It’s a good idea to have a laboratory work-up that includes testing for nutrients, along with evaluation for rheumatic diseases, hormonal imbalances, immunological imbalances, including an antibody differential and white blood cell differential, liver function, electrolytes and kidney function. Hormones to focus on include a complete thyroid panel and the adrenal hormone DHEA-S. Further testing for hormone function may be done through a salivary hormone panel, which tests your cortisol levels over the course of a day, along with your sex hormone levels. If all this comes up clear, further evaluation should look at cellular function, food allergies and digestive function.
Send an email with the subject line “Ask an Expert”to letters@vivamagonline.com. For more health articles, check out www.vivamagonline.com.
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what's in your fridge
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Occupation: Author, caterer, nutritionist What is your number one comfort food? Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate! If I could
add chocolate to salads I would! What are the top three things you do to keep a balanced lifestyle? Exercise every day. Walk What keeps you eating a balanced diet? I feel great, and keep my immune system at its
peak. It keeps my weight in line and works to prevent many chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes type 2, heart and stroke disease and certain cancers. Any allergies or dislikes? Virtually nothing. What must you always have in your fridge? Plain Greek yogurt and loads of fruits and vegetables. Strangest food(s) you’ve tried? Chocolate-covered bugs! I had a television show years ago on the Food Network and had to try. Not my favourite. What is your favourite dish or food to eat in the summer? In the winter? In the summer I love grilled whole fish on the barbeque. In the winter I love my homemade chili with all the condiments: light sour cream, grated old cheddar cheese, cilantro and avocado. What is your favourite meal to make for guests in your home? My children loved Hoisin braised short ribs and pulled pork. What is your most used/favourite ingredient to cook with? I’m addicted to cilantro. If I could add it to desserts, I would. Also, quinoa is at the top of the list. What is your favourite city to eat out in? Why? New York City. Everything is better there, even the eggs! What have you been busy with over the last year? My latest book, Choose It and Lose it. It’s a roadmap to healthier eating at your favourite Canadian restaurants, and just hit the stores.
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my two German Shepherds. Eat well.
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activist
Spontaneous Concerned about chemicals in household and baby products, Jessica Alba co-founded an eco-friendly company by bonnie siegler photography by justin coit styling by brad goreski hair by robert ramos makeup by joseph maalouf video by steven silpa
View the video from the photo shoot at vivamagonline.com
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n a trip to Disneyland with her parents when she was just six years old, Jessica Alba uncannily articulated what would prove to be her adult passion. “My parents took a video of me saying I was a modern woman, a feminist, and was going to stand up for all women because we can prove we’re better than men in certain areas,” says the mother of two daughters, Honor (4) and Haven (1) with husband Cash Warren. “I was way too young to be talking about that stuff. At six you have a different focus, though I’ve always championed causes for women and children.” In fact, Alba’s passion for social justice has led to several trips to Capitol Hill to testify in front of Congress for the Safe Chemicals Act, while serving as current spokesperson for the Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families Coalition. At 31, she’s come a long way from showing off her figure in films such as Fantastic Four, Sin City and Machete. She even cofounded The Honest Company, which sells eco-friendly baby products and environmentally friendly goods for the home. It was a load of laundry that spurred her search for greener commodities and a stylish line of nontoxic essentials. Allergies and asthma
“I broke out in hives and had a sneezing attack due to the baby detergent I was using,” explains Alba who, as a child, suffered from severe allergies and asthma. “It was the catalyst for me to start research into what eco and green really meant. I found the link between certain ingredients and the harmful ramifications on the health of our children and ourselves.” As a child growing up in Southern California, Alba had been in and out of hospital for everything from a collapsed lung to pneumonia to a kidney operation before she was 10. “Anything with seeds, certain nuts, dust, fresh fruits and vegetables” are substances that began to trigger her allergy attacks. However, as she matured, she started keeping a mental note of when and where these attacks took place. no additives
“I realized it was the preservatives, nitrates, sulfates in the foods—what was added or sprayed on the fresh foods. So I eat organically now, and I’m fine,” Alba says. In particular, The Honest Company has a food wash to rid produce of chemicals. “It’s knowing your environment inside and outside the home that is important.” Alba takes her own and her family’s health seriously; however, she’s not fanatical about what everyone eats. “We eat French fries and hamburgers, make cookies together. We eat like normal people—I just use better quality ingredients: no unbleached white flour, no high fructose corn syrup, no highly processed foods or anything that’s genetically modified or watered down. I try to keep everything natural.”
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“My parents took a video of me saying I was a modern woman, a feminist, and was going to stand up for all women because we can prove we’re better than men in certain areas.” Nutritional staples in the Alba-Warren household run the gamut from grains and legumes to fresh organic produce. “During the summer months, we do a lot of grilled meats and big salads…we love avocados. When it’s cooler weather, I do a roasted chicken, maybe Indian food.”
overall health and relaxation,” Alba says. Other personal leisure pursuits include the occasional mani/pedi, or a glass of wine with girlfriends. “A movie is always nice, and reading, which is something I never really get to do that much—it keeps my mind healthy.”
Even though she has an eye-popping, curvy 5’7” figure that looks as good in jeans and tee as in a Donatella Versace gown, Alba, surprisingly, does go for periods of time when she doesn’t work out.
The impression Alba gives is that this confident woman knows she sets fashion trends, is aware her activism influences people, knows her responsibility as a parent, and that she is looked upon as more than an actor preening for the cameras.
Time for the kids
“I really don’t like a fitness regimen,” she readily admits with a laugh. “It’s just hard for me to dedicate that much time to myself. When I was pregnant—gaining over 60 pounds with Honor— it was easier because I would do yoga and feel like I was doing something good for my baby. Though I have to say after I was 8½ months pregnant, I didn’t weigh myself anymore. When it’s just for me, selfishly, I have my office, my acting, my husband and my babies. So if I have that extra hour, I usually need to sleep or spend time with my kids.” With production on Sin City 2 just a few months away, Alba is looking forward to immersing herself in that project. “I’m actually excited because I’ll have to get in shape again for the movie. If it’s not my job, I’m not going to be doing it. So it’ll be circuit training again; that gives me the best results.” Chilling out
Yet when it comes to chilling out, laughter holds centre stage. “I laugh with my kids all the time. I think laughter is incredibly important to your
“I dress for myself, and it’s taken me a while to get to this place of confidence,” Alba says. “I’m comfortable in my own skin, and I think having perspective on life and the importance of priorities that I didn’t have before has made me feel this way.” Structure vs. spontaneity
This newly found confidence, for a woman who has received industry awards, along with Golden Globe and Peoples Choice Award nominations, has also enabled Alba to be spontaneous. “I have a lot of structure in my everyday life, so it also allows me to be spontaneous. My career is certainly unplanned.” What’s not impulsive are her activist interests, which are many and varied. “I’ve been blessed in my life, and I feel it is just part of my duty to serve the public in some way,” Alba says. “Growing up with loving and open-minded parents has been a definite influence on me. They embrace everyone.” She smiles and recalls that day 25 years ago at Disneyland. “I can still remember my mother saying ‘you go baby…that’s my girl.’”
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balanced living
DIG DEEP
Olympic champion Rosie MacLennan says goals can be achieved through self motivation photography by erin riley
S
ince arriving home from winning a gold medal in trampoline at the London Olympics this past summer, 23-year-old Rosannagh MacLennan, aka Rosie, has been delivering the same message to many young Canadians. “If you believe in yourself, you can make it,” she says. Since she was little, MacLennan has been very active, participating in a broad spectrum of sports and activities—swimming, water skiing, diving, tennis. She was even a cheerleader at King City Secondary School when she was a student there. She started training as a trampolinist when she was seven, and began competing internationally at age 11. And as an adult, she’s trained hard at pilates, ballet and strength training, among other sports. “For Olympians, five per cent of the journey is the period up to the Games,” MacLennan says. “Ninety-five per cent is the joy, pain,
sorrow, sweat, all of it, during the years beforehand.” However, MacLennan is upbeat on those down times. In her blog she has written: “Athletes are confronted with all sorts of challenges on the road to the Olympics: mental, physical and emotional. We have to take each challenge as a part of the journey and a learning experience.” For those who are not athletes, MacLennan has a message about motivation and how to achieve your goals: “A lot of people talk about wanting to do something. What I am talking about is the level of want. As an athlete, when we reach the point where our muscles ache and we feel like we cannot push anymore, we have to dig deep and fi nd something within to keep us going. In this situation, I have started to literally repeat my goals in my head reminding myself what I am working towards. Our brains can give you that extra strength and resilience,” she writes.
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Kathleen Robertson finds happiness through simplicity by bonnie siegler • photograph by brian lowe
I
t’s the simple things in life, like going for a walk, bike riding, having a barbeque, that ultimately make me happy and balanced,” says Kathleen Robertson, co-star in the acclaimed Kelsey Grammer political drama, Boss. The 38-year-old native of Hamilton, Ontario says chasing happiness is not what life is about; rather, it’s focusing “on what’s important and slowing down that bring her joy. Robertson concentrates on family—husband, and three-year-old son, William—for true balance, happiness and contentment. “We make an effort to turn off the phone, TV and computers, and spend time out in nature. That’s one of the things I miss about the Canadian lifestyle: spending time in the outdoors. My family still live in Ontario, and every summer we go to my sister’s summer place in Collingwood. There’s nothing more beautiful than being in Ontario during the summer months.” Research backs up what many people have long thought, that happiness and health are connected, and that one’s level of happiness really can impact the level of one’s health. So it’s not surprising to hear Robertson say she shuns gym workouts, opting for regular morning bike rides with her husband and son. “I was a dancer growing up, and was the girl who literally took jazz, ballet, tap, modern and point about five nights a week. So yoga and Pilates sort of connect that piece of my childhood, and I enjoy doing those. It’s almost more for a mental state than a physical state. They help me relax and de-stress.” Green smoothie
Every morning before heading out to bike around Lake Hollywood near her home in the Hollywood hills, Robertson will drink a green smoothie made with spinach, pear, kale, banana, cilantro, celery, lemon, apple and “a chunk of ginger. They’re delicious. I’ll even make them when I’m working away from home because I’m not a big breakfast person.” Green smoothies are very nutritious, due to their ratio of about 60 per cent ripe fruit mixed with about 40 per cent greens, making them a complete food because they still have fibre. To maintain her svelte 5’4” figure, Robertson enjoys a vegetarian-type eating plan, but does eat fish and occasionally chicken. “I love Italian food, so we always buy whole wheat pasta, which I think is much healthier. And we’ve eliminated white sugar in our house and only use agave syrup for sweetener.” The three-time Gemini-nominated actress and accomplished writer is currently filming her TV show in Chicago. She makes a point that while her professional life brings her great joy, “There’s nothing more amazing knowing that my son and husband are going to be there when I get home. It still feels like Christmas morning to me.”
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balanced living
Jodi Lyn O’Keefe stays grounded with meditation, challenging roles—and gourmet cooking
by bonnie siegler
t 17, Jodi Lyn O’Keefe was starring opposite Don Johnson in Nash Bridges. Now, at 33, the 5’9” former model has just appeared in one episode of TV’s Castle, is starring alongside John Cusack and Nic Cage in upcoming thriller The Frozen Ground, and still finds time to design her own jewellery line, Q Jewelry Designs, with inspiration from her mother. “I’ve learned how to keep everything in check by not doing too much of one thing and not enough of another,” says O’Keefe on living a balanced lifestyle. “I’m doing pretty good with it all right now.” Regular steam-heated yoga sessions have helped provide her with meditative time, clear the cobwebs from her head and bring her back inside her own body. “I want to be my personal best, and the meditation is a great part of it all, allowing everything to settle,” O’Keefe says. “I just feel so much better when I leave.” Be someone else
Playing a sultry, voluptuous reporter in Castle and a prostitute/ madam in The Frozen Ground gives O’Keefe a chance to take on whole new identities. “These roles are so opposite of who I am in real life that it does empower me,” she explains. “It’s a moment for me to step out of my own skin and be this other person.” Does portraying these women also mean an increase in exercise? “Absolutely,” says O’Keefe, recalling when she was 20 pounds heavier a few years ago. “It was due to lack of discipline, and without really knowing it, I was heavier. So I find I get a little panicky when I know I’m wearing something form-fitting. Like any woman, it’s a little bit of body insecurity, so I step it up with exercise. And I eat a little better too.” Cooking to relax
Clean, simple eating sometimes proves a challenge for this gourmet cook who finds it relaxing to prepare food in her kitchen for dinner parties.
“Yes, unfortunately, cooking helps de-stress me,” O’Keefe says with a giggle. “Just me and my kitchen. I like the whole process of taking food, turning it into something beautiful and being able to put it in front of people I love.” O’Keefe sits back for a moment with her two dogs by her side, reflecting on the woman she has become. “I’d say I’m hard working, disciplined and loyal,” she says, quickly adding, “and happy.” More Energy
O’Keefe has shunned red meat for years—for health and moral reasons. “I used to eat it a lot, and I just felt so much better when I stopped. I found a nutritionist, and she said to supplement my diet with protein, so every now and then I’ll eat fish, chicken or turkey. I seem to have more energy this way. I eat mainly fresh vegetables, fish and dairy substitutes like almond milk, rice milk and yogurt.” She supplements her diet with a women’s one-a-day, plus a probiotic “that helps in overall digestion.” After a lifetime of eating dairy, O’Keefe noticed in her 20s “that I got a little congested and sometimes got a stomachache, though it wasn’t to the point where it completely stopped me from eating it. I just felt bloated and uncomfortable, too.” Since cutting out dairy, those uncomfortable symptoms have subsided.
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BEAUTY
Glamour by colour Brighten up your holiday beauty palette with a pop of colour. For maximum impact, add a little fuchsia, pink or red. While navigating the party circuit, let your personality shine through with a high-voltage lip or playfully pretty blush on your cheeks. Then, smile for the cameras and enjoy the attention!
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get the look
The winds of November The crispness in the air reminds us that holidays are right around the corner. Let’s see how some of our favourite celebrities brace for winter while looking fresh and seasonal. • by bonnie siegler & lynne shuttleworth
RASHIDA JONES
HEIDI KLUM
KEIRA KNIGHTLEY
GIULIANA RANCIC
Jones likes her lips in sultry shades during the cold winter nights and for dramatic holiday looks. Her makeup artist, Byron Williams, fi lls in Jones’ lips with a bold coloured pencil. “I like using Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella,” he says.
Klum says, “I’m not really blond, so I colour my hair every four weeks; I probably have the most used and abused hair on the planet.” She uses Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Damage & Color Repair Nourishing Conditioner especially to counteract the winter months’ drying effects.
The English beauty likes to draw attention to her full arched eyebrows. Says makeup pro Sonia Kashuk, “Comb brows up to see where sparse spots are. Then fill in with a brow pencil one shade darker than your hair, and smooth strands back into place; blend colour.” One of Knightley’s favourites is Chanel Sculpting Eyebrow Pencil in Brun Naturel.
The E! star says, “After travelling, which I do a lot and even more so around the holidays, I put on bronzer to make me look alive. Planes can dehydrate me and drain my colour. So I always carry bronzer.” Her go-to is Laura Mercier bronzing pressed powder.
Keep your lips lush with the nourishing moisture of sunflower seed oil and vitamin E. The creamy colour glides on and protects you from the elements—it’s infused with white and red teas, pomegranate and vitamin C*.
THE NATURAL WAY
Feed your hair from the inside out with nourishing and strengthening apple and millet extracts*, amino acids and minerals such as copper. The secret of these ingredients is that they stop cell death in hair cells and stimulate hair growth.
THE NATURAL WAY
Moisten the delicate brush with a drop of water and carefully brush colour onto your brows. The velvety, long-lasting colour will stay put for your busy day, and the pomegranate, white tea*, red tea and sea kelp will nourish your skin.
THE NATURAL WAY
Your face is unique, and this bronzer reacts specifically to the light and your natural pH level, giving you a custom shade and a healthy glow when everyone else looks pasty. It’s hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and gluten and paraben free, with ingredients such as corn* and mica, and safe for all skin types.
Prices may vary by location.
THE NATURAL WAY
Mineral Fusion eye liner/brow ($16.99)
Mineral Fusion Captivate Lip Gloss (4 ml, $16.99)
Physicians Formula pH Matchmaker™ pH Powered Bronzer (13 g $19.99)
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New Nordic Hair Volume™ (30 tablets, $27.95)
Mineral Fusion Density Eye Shadow Trio (3.0 g, $31.49) *See Viva’s Beauty Terminology on page 96 to increase your beauty IQ.
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beauty tips
Prices may vary by location.
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Natalie Glebova
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beauty tips
MAKINGEyes
From smoky lids to classic cat eyes, give yourself holiday allure with the latest looks
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give these a try
by lena grady
sultry, dramatic eye might sound perfect for your next holiday soirée. However, it’s a look that takes a bit of skill to create. Just ask 27-year-old Cassandra. Her makeup bag is crammed full of mascaras, eyeshadows and different coloured liners, and yet she’s not sure how to take her everyday look from ho-hum to holiday glam and do it with natural products. We asked a professional, Vancouver-based makeup artist, Hayley Miller, for tips on how to play up the latest trends, naturally.
Mineral Fusion Lengthening Mascara (17 mL, $16.99)
START WITH A BASE
To start, Miller recommends applying a base on your eyelids, prepping them for makeup application. Face or eye cream will help hydrate the area, and will make eye makeup application smoother. Look for products that are tailored to work specifically around the eye if you have sensitivities, and leave time for the skin to absorb the product before you move on to the next step. If your eyelids are generally oily, and this causes your shadow to crease, apply an eyeshadow primer—or an overall face primer directly to your lids. This will create a base for the shadow to stick to, and will keep the shade in place for longer. If your eyelids are generally dry, dab on a cream shadow to act as a base instead, says Miller.
When it comes to mascara, how much to use depends on the look you want, explains Miller. If you want to look natural, one or two coats will do. If you’re looking for nighttime drama, opt for three or four coats of product. For serious nights out, false eyelashes are also an option. Individual lashes can be glued to the outer edge of the eyes, or try a set that has different lash lengths within the one lash so it looks like the most natural—albeit enhanced—version of your own.
To get that perfect lined look on your lids, use your pinky or ring finger and rest it on your cheek to balance your hand so you can draw a straight line or a wing stroke, says Miller.
SENSITIVE TYPES
For a smoky eye, line your lashes with a black or brown pencil, and use a cotton swab to blend the line. Start with the top only if you’re new to the look. If you’re feeling more adventurous, line the bottom and smudge it gently as well, being careful not to overdo it.
If your skin is sensitive, look out for irritating ingredients that can often be found in waterproof mascaras or shadows. Look for mineral ingredients, and avoid synthetics, parabens, talc, fragrances or phalates. Check for dermatologist or ophthalmologist approved products, and opt for standardized natural and organic certifications such as Eco-Cert. As an alternative, you can look up your products in the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database to discover their chemical content.
A surefire way to open up your eyes if you’re going glam? Use an eyelash curler. Pump the curler from the base of your lashes to the tips, moving outwards and upwards as you go. The curl will make you look instantly awake, and a coat of mascara will keep this look in place all day or night.
Remember, when choosing any of your products, it's important to read the ingredient list, Miller advises. Botanical ingredients can cause sensitivities just as often as chemicals can. Also, never use naturalbased products past their expiry or recommended usage time, as there are often fewer preservatives.
FEELING ADVENTUROUS?
Prices may vary by location.
Genuine Health - Healthy Skin Chocolate Soft Chews (45 pieces, $31.69)
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beauty expert
insider donna pace, rhn, certified esthetician
Being a woman just got
easier!
secrets
I spend a lot of time outside, and I don’t want my hands to wrinkle. What can I do?? – Marcia, Oshawa, Ont.
What causes hangnails? Can I prevent them? – Joanna, Saskatoon, S.K.
Dear Marcia, Because the skin on the top of the hands is thin, they tend to show the signs of age first. Sun exposure and extreme temperature will accelerate wrinkle formation and age spots. SPF is a must when outdoors. To avoid the chemicals found in many sunblocks, look for formulations that contain micronized titanium and zinc. These dry to a sheer, clear finish without leaving a white film on the skin.
Dear Joanna, Dry nail beds are often the first cause of hangnails. The best defence is to supply the nail bed with a nourishing oil to lock in moisture and help keep the cuticle soft and supple. Try massaging in a drop or two of argan oil nightly, as it is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and almost three times the amount of vitamin E in olive oil.
Avoid using harsh cleansers to wash your hands, and apply a nourishing hand cream to keep them soft and smooth. A weekly exfoliation with a gentle sugar scrub with an essential oil will help slough off any dead skin build-up.
• eco-friendly • reliable • comfortable • clean • active-lifestyle
I love this combination because when the scrub is removed, the essential oil still leaves a silky finish on the skin, so there is no need to add moisturizer.
Regular nail care can go a long way to help prevent hangnails. To stop your nails from drying out, start by removing polish with a non-acetone remover. Keep nails trimmed neatly, and gently push back your cuticles, without scratching the nail surface. Avoid cutting cuticles, with the exception of any lifted pieces of skin, as these lead to hang nails. Carefully nip these tiny pieces of skin with a good pair of cuticle nippers as soon you see them, to keep them from getting longer or tearing. Treat yourself to a regular manicure, to help get your nails back in shape.
Available Nationwide. Find a Store: Send an email with the subject line “Ask an Expert” to letters@vivamagonline.com. For more beauty articles, check out Viva’s website at www.vivamagonline.com.
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YOUR LIFE
Are you ready? While November can be cold and drab, don’t let the climate keep you in the doldrums. Instead of hibernating, make a to-do list and get yourself ready for the holidays. The lull in the days before the festive season is the calm before the storm – a perfect time to prepare for a busy social calendar.
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Living
la difference
Inspired
Viva readers share their secrets to attaining optimal health, naturally. by brian davies, bsc, nd
NOTE
Ev er yo ne ha s di ff er en t experiences with symptom s and treatmen ts. Always co nsult your health care pr ac tit ioner when you are consider ing any ne w lif es ty le an d he al th change s.
health issue: back strain Symptoms: When I work, I am in the same few positions for several hours a day. After being in practice for 10 years, the strain on my back, neck and shoulders kept getting worse. As I got busier at work, I knew I had to figure out how to solve the problem, and soon. Health recommendations: Consulting with my chiropractor, we identified the problem positions and explored specific movement modifications. I learned techniques that would improve my posture at work, and had some serious relief from the treatments. The results: I gained more than I imagined I would after being assessed and treated by the chiropractor. The adjustments keep me moving well as I continue to work on my new and improved work habits, and I’ve never felt better. Name: Daniel Age: 38 Occupation: Dentist
health issue: tonsilitis Symptoms: I had chronic tonsillitis for 1.5 years, and it was wearing me down. I was getting sick every two to three weeks and getting infected tonsils four to six times per year. After I had tried the usual salt water gargle and many rounds of antibiotics, my doctor recommended surgery to remove my tonsils. I decided to see a naturopathic doctor to seek natural treatment. Health recommendations: My ND, Dr. Kanji, recommended some herbs to boost my immune system and some at-home treatments to prevent my chronic tonsil infections. He also gave me advice on tonsil irrigation, other than salt water gargling, that helped. The results: I have been tonsillitis-free for five months now since doing the treatments. My immune system has strengthened, and I get sick less throughout the year. I didn’t have to get the surgery to remove my tonsils! Name: A zrah Age: 23 Occupation: Masters student
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health issue: muscle eczema Symptoms: I’ve had eczema since 2002, which I had noticed in the past could be linked to some foods. I went to Dr. Kanji, my naturopathic doctor to see if I could get some natural treatments and figure out what foods I’m sensitive to. Health recommendations: He put me on a detox diet, which removed the most common inflammatory foods in my diet. Then I was to reintroduce foods one-by-one to see if my eczema flared up. The results: My eczema completely cleared up on the detox diet, and I found that I was sensitive to dairy (cheese, milk and cream triggered my eczema, and butter and yogurt didn’t). I also found that I don’t react well to a lot of gluten or eggs in my diet. I usually get migraines and I was migraine-free on the detox! Name: Aliza Age: 27 Occupation: Business Analyst
health issue: breast cancer Symptoms: In 2003 I felt quite tired, especially in the early mornings, as that was the time when I used to get up and write. I had a shower and discovered a small lump in my breast. I knew at once, without any doubt, that it could be something serious. I visited my doctor the very same day, and soon my fears were confirmed. Health recommendations: I was referred by my GP to an oncologist, but at the same time I started to see an oncologist who worked seven years in Oasis of Hope, established by Dr. Ernesto Contreras, known as the Total Cancer Treatment Care Approach. He has been recognized as a pioneer in body, mind and spirit medicine. In 2003 I changed my diet to complete vegan, started with acupuncture treatments, homeopathy and weekly injections of Vitamin C and B12. I implemented “traditional” methods of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Mine and my doctors’ philosophy was “embrace it all.” The results: All those complementary treatments helped me to fight and ease the side effects of toxic treatments. The correct diet had absolutely contributed to my increased energy levels, clearer skin and better digestion, and acupuncture helped as well. Ten years later, I am in perfect health, still faithful to my vegan diet and occasional acupuncture treatments and vitamin injections. The result of this experience is my new book, The Mosaic of the Broken Soul, an inspiration for those in dire circumstances. Name: Branka Age: 51 Occupation: Writer/novelist Viva WANTS TO HE AR FROM YOU! Please send your inspired living story with subject line "Inspired Living" and contact information to: letters@vivamagonline.com The gift issue 2012 vivamagonline.com
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relationships
Togetherness:
inter-faith style Celebrations that are meant to bring families together should never cause chaos by rebecca rosenblat
I
t was a brutally cold day—the day after Christmas, or the eve of the eight days of Hanukkah, depending on whether you were looking at it from my point of view or my husband’s. We’d just finished our Christmas celebrations and housewarming party with my family the night before. His family was to have the same privilege—with Hanukkah celebrations. All day I insisted that he take down the Christmas tree he was worried about; however, he was busy with other things, convinced he had enough time. An hour before his family was to arrive, the tree was still up, complete with all its trimmings. And then it happened; the doorbell rang, with his entire family wanting to come in. They thought they’d come early to help me prepare latkes for my first Hanukkah. Like a scene from a sitcom, my husband opened the door, said, “Hang on a bit!” and slammed it shut in their faces, cool wind whipping snow every which way. Shocked, I asked, “Why did you do that?” He said, “The tree has got to go first!” And with that, he ripped the light cords out of the wall and grabbed the entire tree with over a hundred ornaments, and ran down the stairs to plunk it on the outside patio.
He felt that his family were going to demand a tour of the entire house, so no place was “safe enough” inside the house. Five embarrassing minutes later, he opened the door to a bunch of confused family members, who had gotten back in their cars. And so goes the story of our first inter-faith holidays. Other interfaith couples always told us that our story had nothing on theirs. So in the interest of saving inter-faith couples heartache when they should be enjoying heartfelt celebrations, here are some suggestions to ensure the holiday season is festive, not destructive. 1. Put each other first. Holidays and relatives come and go, so neither should be allowed to create the kind of friction that takes over your home. You and your guests need to respect that. 2. Have a candid discussion ahead of time about what the holidays mean to each of you and how you’ve celebrated in the past. This will give you a sense of what the other party is used to, while making their needs feel more personal and meaningful. It will also clarify whether they’re just pushing the issue to make a point. 3. Make an effort to honour each other’s needs, versus trying to dismiss them as unimportant. Twice the celebrating isn’t half bad!
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relationships 4. Plan ahead. Once you know what you need to do, get busy making plans together so there are no surprises at the last minute. That includes having a game plan when you end up in those awkward moments where your only option is to choose between tossing aside a decorated tree or dressed-up relatives. 5. Take at least as much initiative planning for your partner’s traditions as your own. My Jewish friend cooked fabulous meals for his Muslim wife when she broke fast each night during Ramadan. In exchange, she lit the menorah through Hanukkah. 6. Create your own microcosm with its unique rituals. Our Christmas tree ended up with blue and silver decorations and a Star of David on the top, so it could double as a Hanukkah bush. 7. If you have children, explain the importance of both sets of holidays, and impress upon them how lucky they are to be experiencing two different fl avours, rather than having umpteen turkey dinners sandwiched close together.
8. If you have children, it’s also imperative that you discuss what you plan to do with both sides of the family and why, so they don’t get confused or carry a sense of shame, based on your secrecy. 9. Stand up for and support each other. In as much as we all love parental approval, it shouldn’t trump respecting our spouse’s wishes. If you’re old enough to live with a partner, you’re old enough to stop living for your parents’ validation. 10.Invite both sets of parents to both celebrations, so they can see it’s a time for families to get together, not a conversion ritual that will impact their own traditions. Trust me, if they can’t handle it, they’ll likely decline the invite. So don’t push the issue. Bottom line, a celebration that’s supposed to bring families together should never become a reason for tearing them apart; that would defeat the whole purpose. Happy holidays—whatever they might be!
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a v i v
Amore!
With its alluring scenery, timeless architecture, delicious cuisine and expressive people, Italy is more than just pasta and high fashion by bonnie siegler
I
t’s impossible not to love Italy. From Milan to Verona to Venice, with majestic mountains, cobblestone streets and picturesque canals, where contemporary luxury and historic greatness are combined, it’s no wonder Italy is often called the “Bel Paese.” And now that I’ve spent 10 days in these cities, it looks as if everyone is right: Italy is magical.
Enchanting Venice
In this city born in a lagoon 1,500 years ago as a refuge from barbarians, transportation is by water bus (vaporetto), water taxi, private boat or gondola, known as “traghetti.” Being ferried along the canals, listening to your gondolier sing “Volare” in perfect pitch, is a real treat. Venice is also known for its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, perfect for exploration on foot.
“It’s peaceful and more quiet here than in the heart of Venice,” says general manager Paolo Morra. With a private garden and gourmet restaurant, the five-star luxury hotel takes pride in its opulence—and its simplicity. “Our menu reflects a good balance that is not overwhelming in taste and presentation, it’s a nice blend of visual and flavourful foods,” Morra says of Antinoo’s Lounge and Restaurant, which offers elegance and comfort, indoors or on the patio overlooking the canal. “Most of our menu ingredients and foods are gathered from local sources and prepared so our guests can enjoy traditional Italian flavour with an international flair.” The creative Mediterranean cuisine includes absolutely divine turbot wrapped in bacon over fresh green beans, along with homemade gnocchi with sweet ginger crab meat.
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Piazza San Marco photos courtesy Archive of the Tourist Board of the Province of Venice
Right off the Saluto water stop, located between the Peggy Guggenheim Museum and the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, and looking directly onto the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square, is the Centurion Palace. This hotel, housed in the former Palazzo Genovese, is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Venice. It’s a magical experience within an enchanted city.
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Sophisticated Milan
travel
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Italy’s fashion, banking, publishing and industrial capital boasts a more modern feel than the rest of the country. One of the must-sees is the Gothic-style Duomo Cathedral, built of marble in 1520, and situated in the middle of Piazza del Duomo, Milan’s main square. Right in the centre of the financial district is the iconic Hotel Principe di Savoia, which opened in 1927 and has housed royalty of all kinds. “Revered as a venue for celebrities, tycoons and the sophisticated traveller, the hotel has stood as Milan’s symbol for gracious urban living for over 80 years,” says Mario Gambron, head concierge of the 19th century hotel with Lombard design that hotel guests love. “You’ll find the famous Principe Bar and a variety of live music, impeccable cuisine at the five-star Acanto Restaurant and even an afternoon tea in the intimate lobby lounge.” For an unparalleled view of Milan’s cityscape, Gambron suggests a rooftop visit, where you’ll find the hotel’s fitness centre, beauty salon and spa. “We feel a spa is fundamental for the well-being of our guests,” says Elisabetta Bonfanti, spa manager. After some pampering and a leisurely late breakfast on the hotel’s patio—weather permitting—head over to the Museo ‘Arte Antica of the Sforza Castle (built in the 1300s as a military fortress). There you can see one of the greatest masterpieces in the Sforza’s collection: The Rondanini Pieta of Michelangelo. Historic Verona
Piazza San Marco photos courtesy Archive of the Tourist Board of the Province of Venice
The 13th and 14th century Roman ruins in this city are the true treasures of Verona. Set in a historical palazzo, built atop the ancient Roman town square, is the magnificent Palazzo Victoria, a stunning palace that seamlessly blends history with contemporary living. “These were the original streets and ruins of the Romans,” explains Silvia Soregaroli, Sales Manager, pointing out the actual street and town square on which the hotel was built, now situated in the belowground floor. “Our lobby, where the old town square was used for various gatherings, is a mixture of old and modern that combines the past and present, much like the city itself does.” Palazzo Victoria is located in the heart of this beautiful, vibrant and romantic city. It’s within walking distance to the people-friendly Piazza Bra, which means “open space,” with many restaurants, park benches and a stellar view of the ancient arena that looms over the piazza.
The Roman arena that now features operas, musicals and concerts, is a vivid reminder of the city’s history dating back to Roman times. Piazza Erbe with its lively market square and exquisite Roman architecture, is a favourite spot for locals to begin their evenings with a drink or espresso. The gift issue 2012 vivamagonline.com
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No More Pills!
beauty terms
Beauty Terminology
• Soft and easy to chew • Great tasting • Complete multi-vitamin • The only multi with Omega-3 DHA and EPA • Natural colours and flavours
Feel Young Again!
Increase your natural-beauty IQ with Viva’s reference guide.
Corn: A staple in the kitchen, cornstarch may also have a place on your bathroom shelf, as it can be used as a mild astringent, deodorant or powder with its oil and moisture-absorbing properties. Mixed with apple cider vinegar, cornstarch can also be made into an effective blackheadclearing mask.
White tea: This least processed form of tea is packed with antioxidants, which help guard against free radical damage and environmental stresses that can prematurely age skin. It can slow the breakdown of collagen and elastin, ultimately improving skin’s texture and radiance. White tea even contains fluoride, which helps keep teeth strong.
Millet extract: Rich in protein, amino acids, B and E vitamins and silicon, millet extract is beneficial to skin, nails and hair. Millet extract promotes hair growth by helping the body produce keratin, and millet oil can be used to moisturize and protect skin.
Vitamin C: This essential vitamin is a popular ingredient in skin care products. Used topically, vitamin C results in smoother, brighter skin with improved tone and texture. Full of antioxidants, it can produce collagen and can guard against damaging UVB rays.
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*See Viva’s Get the Look on page 32 to find out how these natural ingredients can benefit your beauty routine. a0118ca
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attention shoppers
Grocery Basket $ 48
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Shopping all natural for under $50.
Tyrell’s beetroot, parsnip & carrot crisps with sea salt This jolly-good mix of unsung root vegetables lightly sprinkled with sea salt will satisfy your craving for a savoury snack that actually has some fibre value. Tyrell’s chips are eccentric yet down to Earth. (150 g, $3.49)
Organic Italian Parsley $1.75
Barbara’s cheez puffs, jalapeno Check out this all-natural snack that’s chock full of cheddar and blue cheese flavours. The crunchy cheese puffs are made from hearty ingredients such as stone-ground yellow cornmeal, buttermilk and butter. (198 g, $2.99)
La Maison Orphee inc. extra virgin olive oil Add a dash of this light-tasting oil to your favourite salad and see how it bumps up the flavour impact of every ingredient. Certified organic, it’s a very healthy oil containing 75 per cent monounsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants. (500 ml, $10.99)
Enjoy Life crunchy sugar shortbread cookies Made with rice, millet and buckwheat flours, these cookies are ideal for anyone on a gluten-free diet—or snackers looking for a crunchy-sweet treat. Perfect for guests dropping by in the festive season! (14 cookies, 179 g, $4.29)
Sweet Potato $1.75
Prices may vary by location.
Taste of Nature Quebec Cranberry Carnival Bars For on-the-road snacks, quick breakfasts or pre and post-workout fuel, these chewy, certified organic bars will make your taste buds happy and give you valuable nutrients. The sweet/sour cranberries hail from “la belle province,” and all the other ingredients are straight from nature, with nothing artificial added! (5 bars, $5.99)
Red Onion $1.19
Four O’Clock Earl Grey Black Tea Savour the intense flavours of this organic tea that’s a mix of black tea leaves from India, and natural bergamot. Whether you start your day with a hot cup of tea, or simply like to warm up from the cold, you’ll appreciate the care that went into creating this delicious blend. (16 tea bags, $3.89)
McIntosh Apples $1.59
Glutino Gluten Free Pantry Chocolate Chip Cookie & Cake Mix When you feed the need for home-made, you can make scrumptious gluten-free cookies or cake in a flash by blending this mix with butter and eggs. In less than 15 minutes, your home will be suffused with the sweet smell of freshly baked goodies. (540 g, $4.99)
Nature’s Path Dark Chocolate + Red Berries Love Crunch Feel the love as you crunch on these clusters of organic oats, flax, coconut and cocoa— spoon them into milk at breakfast time or snack on them straight out of the bag. (325 g, $5.99)
VIVA TASTE TEST Be a Viva taste tester! Email: viva@gorgmgo.com
Taste of Nature bars “I’m impressed!. Wow, this is really good!” - Donovan
Four O’Clock tea “This is the best tea I’ve ever tasted! I love it.” – Margaret
Enjoy Life cookies “These taste as good as homemade. I can stop baking.” – Erin
Nature’s Path Love Crunch “It’s so good, I’m eating it every day of the week.” - Anne
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horoscope
Scorpio by chrissie blaze
(Oct. 24 – Nov. 21)
November is an incredible month for you. Improve your selfconfidence and take on new commitments that make the most of your many abilities and talents—it’s your time to shine! However, Saturn in Scorpio promises increased responsibility and work; focus on your health and get yourself in shape to prepare. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19)
Your vitality is high; however, your patience is low with Mars in your sign until November 16. It’s time for adventure, fitness and travel, but be extra careful to check your itinerary during Mercury retrograde from November 6-26. The Full Moon Eclipse on November 28 indicates increased commitment in an ongoing relationship.
The New Moon on November 13 reminds you to let go of limiting attitudes, assisted by your ruler, Mars, in the adventurous area of your chart; you can now see the big picture. Plan a daring trip, vacation or major project; don’t implement until Mercury goes direct after its retrograde phase from November 6-26.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20)
This is a month to be flexible; dance, practice yoga and adapt to changing circumstances. Dynamic Mars prods you to be more physically assertive and competitive when he enters Capricorn on November 16. It’s time to work hard to succeed and not wait for others to recognize your abilities.
Your ruler, Venus, opposes Uranus on November 5, bringing sudden attractions to unusual people. Avoid impulsive actions as Mercury goes retrograde from November 6-26, reminding you to review carefully. Relationships are on your agenda now, and old friends may appear, causing confusion. De-stress with massage and by rejuvenating in nature.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Avoid being caught up in power plays at work; the New Moon on November 13 reminds you to either invest more energy in your career or make a change to do something better. To think clearly and de-stress your delicate nervous system, focus on breathing and walks in nature at this pivotal time.
PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) You’re faced with unfinished business when Mercury goes retrograde November 6-26, so take time to tie up loose ends and clarify your communications at work. Also, reflect on your spiritual goals and see whether your aspirations are truly being fulfilled. Listening to your heart will help you make the right decision.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21) November brings potential stress with two eclipses—a Solar Eclipse on November 13 and a Lunar Eclipse on November 28— affecting partnerships and your daily routines. Also, your ruler, Mercury, goes retrograde from November 6-26. Prepare by reviewing aspects of your life and changing what doesn’t work. Introduce calming exercise and deep breathing.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) Eclipses affect you in particular. With a Solar Eclipse on November 13 and Lunar Eclipse on November 28, you’re faced with letting go of a dream or romance. Allow your heart—
not your mind—to be your guide, and you’ll gain more than you lose. Nurture yourself with healthy food and relaxing exercise.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) The ebbs and flows of life are frustrating when you’re longing to get back to healthy routines and creative pursuits. However, Mercury Retrograde from November 6-26, together with two Eclipses, is urging you to make changes. The Full Moon Eclipse on November 28 aligns with Jupiter, announcing that your future has arrived!
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) From November 6-26, your ruler, Mercury, turns retrograde, reminding you to review your plans concerning home and family. It’s time to streamline your life and end commitments that have been holding you back. Listen to your inner voice rather than what others may tell you; set aside quiet time for reflection.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) With an emphasis on finances until November 21, it’s a good time to examine investments and loans, and reconsider a purchase. By mid-month, your energy levels are high, and your health and fitness levels improve. The Full Moon Eclipse aligned with abundant Jupiter on November 28 inspires you to accept an exciting opportunity.
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