Women, Wellbeing & Wisdom by Wellness Warehouse

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(incl. VAT) FREE TO WELLNESS WAREHOUSE REWARD CARD HOLDERS

AUG 2016

WOMEN, WELLBEING &

Meet model & actor Ebby Weyime

The Wellness Warehouse magazine

MOON TIDES

Natural birth control - follow the moon & find your fertility

SWEET SOLUTIONS Bite into blissfully delicious sugar free recipes & treats

Offers valid from 1 - 31 August 2016. Selected items may not be available at certain stores. We reserve the right to limit quantities. E.&O.E.

Wisdom

PETAL POWER

Treat your emotions with flower remedies that resonate

FROM THE EDITOR

magazine helping you live life well

Women, Wellbeing & Wisdom With August celebrating Woman’s day we bring in all the principles of fertility, nurture, and wisdom as well as extensive practical tips that make life easier. We feature homeopathy and the wisdom it contains; flower remedies and the amazing and quirky conditions they address. A full disclosure on fats, how to get the best of them, what to avoid and the technical aspects explains everything you need to know. Then we delve into the sweet taste, why it’s so seductive and how to healthily satisfy your cravings. We share the wisdom of natural fertility, and the joy of being in tune with your body. Advice and tips on tuning into a youthful mindset shows how you can keep your skin renewed and radiant. A deep respect for the connection we share with plants shows how we can actively engage with them on a much deeper level. This issue has a special emphasis on the wisdom of the natural world, of natural healing and encourages more connection with nature and natural principles. Whether male or female we invite you to explore your feminine aspects.

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ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DISCRIMINATIONS WE CAN MAKE IN THIS MATTER IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THINGS THAT BECKON TO US AND THINGS THAT CALL FROM OUR SOULS Clarissa Pinkola Estes

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Many blessings Robyn

EDITORIAL PUBLISHER: Dr. Sean Gomes EDITOR: Robyn Wilkinson robyn@wellnesswarehouse.com EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Lara Potgieter lara@holistica.co.za DESIGN: Inge Smit inge@wellnesswarehouse.com DIETITIAN: Hayley Cimring

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES: Sue Dall, cell: 084 707 4477 wellmag@wellnesswarehouse.com PRINTED BY: Paarl Media Paarl

For details of all the Wellness Warehouse stores, log onto www.wellnesswarehouse.com or contact the support office on:

Wellness Support Office 261 Bree Street, Cape Town

021 003 3552 www.wellnesswarehouse.com WELLNESS magazine takes no responsibility for the content of the advertising material supplied directly by advertisers. We accept advertising in good faith and do not research advertising claims. Kindly consult a professional should you have any doubt as to the efficacy of any claims made.

ambassadors live life well

Sharni Quinn Yoga and Life Coach Consultant 071 954 2816 sharni@followthesun.co.za www.followthesun.co.za Elan Lohmann Sleekgeek 084 333 1313 elan@sleekgeek.co.za www.sleekgeek.co.za Kelly Shreuder Dietician & Personal Chef 082 321 8463 kelly@ctdietician.co.za Dr Mark Vella School of Lifestyle Medicine 021 438 4155 (work) 082 940 7465 mark@lifestylemedicine. co.za www.lifestylemedicine. co.za Leilah Kirsten Movement Coach and Prime Movement Pilates Teacher leilahkirsten@gmail.com www.leilahkirsten.com

We are delighted to announce that the Wellness magazine is now on sale at Starke Ayres at both the Rosebank and West coast branches in Cape Town

Despina Learmonth Counselling and Health Psychologist 071 473 4973 despina@drlearmonth.com Nomvula Khuzwayo One-on-one personal trainer micjazyk@gmail.com Antonia De Luca Owner of Leafy Greens Caf 082 882 7300 antonia@leafygreens.co.za www.leafygreens.co.za Imtiaz Desai Exercise Scientist and owner of CrossFit Jozi 083 293 6470 imtiaz.desai@gmail.com Daniel Mpilo Richards Professional Actor 082 331 6566 dmrichardsltd@gmail.com

CATCHING UP WITH DR SEAN GOMES: This month we decided to put the co-founder of Wellness Warehouse to the test and ask him a few questions on how he ‘lives life well’. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE SUPPLEMENT OF THE MONTH? Being winter and having two young kiddies with developing immune systems (read … always seem to have coughs, sniffs and snotty noses), I need to give my body a good immune boost to keep colds or flus at bay, so I designed a 4 ingredient cocktail that I drink in the morning - so far so good! Mix them up together with some filtered water and bottoms up. 1. Amazing Grass, Green Superfood, Tangerine Immunity Defence. It has lots of green grasses, veggies, probiotics, enzymes, mushrooms, herbs and vitamins and a great flavour too which makes it much easier to stick to. 2. Revitalise C (Vitamin C with Magnesium1.8g Vit C & 200mg Magnesium). This helps healthy immune function and targets stress and energy levels. 3. Wellness Echinacea tincture. 4. Wellness Cold & Flu Remedy Tincture (with Sambucus and Pelargonium) WHAT ARE YOUR EXERCISE GOALS FOR WINTER? I’m on a mission this year…I’m calling it ‘Fit By Forty’. I just ran the Knysna Half Marathon and have signed up for a few more events (Winter Trail Series and Gun Run), which will motivate me to get out there in the cold and keep training. I find it best to enter an event and have something to work towards. Just after running the Knysna Half Marathon I’m signing up to the Gun Run. I’m also entering the Half Ironman in East London at the end of Jan, and starting a 6 month programme starting in August with a group training company called Embark. I’ve struggled with my knees for the past 20 years (ever since running my previous half marathon) and would only manage to run for 20 minutes before my knees started hurting. I decided I couldn’t just accept that and have lost a bit of weight, started Lyno and core strengthening. I also changed my shoes to a maximalist zero drop shoe called Altra which allows you to land more on your mid/forefoot rather than heel strike and is known to help with ITB (iliotibial knee pain, which is what I have on both knees). With these changes I managed my first half marathon in 20 years with just a bit of knee pain. Three days afterwards, I felt normal again. So my plan for winter is commit to a few events, work on my core and get out there and run, swim and ride. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WELLNESS TIP FOR INDIVIDUALS STRIVING TO BE HEALTHIER? This is something I don’t do enough of, but it is pretty simple and something I am trying to do better. Sleep well, give your body the chance it needs to recover. Not only will it boost your immune system, but will improve your mood, help manage your weight and make you look younger. Establish a good bedtime routine (like I have with my kiddies), avoid caffeine after 2pm, (effects cortisol levels and bodies natural circadian rhythms), avoid being stimulated by computers and mobile phones, go to bed early (aim for the same time every evening) and rise early - easier said than done, especially with work deadlines and snotty babies and toddlers. WHAT FAMILY CHALLENGES WOULD YOU SOLVE WITH A DOSE OF WELLNESS? From a relationship perspective I would definitely say find an activity you can do with your partner that helps develop your relationship in terms of fun and support. My wife and I are running partners and its great to spend time together training and then dig deep and support each other across the finish line. It’s simple but strengthens our commitment by helping motivate each other through challenges. We each take turns to wait for the other, sometimes one of us is stronger, the other weaker or the other way around. It teaches humility, respect, commitment and patience, all of which are all fundamental to a strong relationship.

luxury bath salts

Soak your troubles away Hand blended in Cape Town with the finest quality natural ingredients With pure essential oils, Atlantic sea salt, flowers and petals Lavender relaxes while rose milk pampers and softens the skin

shop in store or online at wellnesswarehouse.com 6

AUGUST 2016 EAT 16

EGGSTRAVAGANZA - Eggs are said to be one of the most popular food choices of the future. We scramble through the A to Z of an egg and the benefits of protein powered omegas, bespoke yokes, as well as a truly freerange supply.

EGG PLANT ‘MEAT BALLS’ - Eggplant is an excellent replacement for meat. Here’s a recipe that’s just as fulfilling as its meat counterpart.

FATTY BOOM - Swigging on a bottle of olive oil or eating a whole avo everyday might sound a trifle excessive, but when you truly examine the benefits of good fats you might want to join the movement.

SWEET SOLUTIONS - Today’s food system is seductively set up around sugar, if you find yourself semi or wholly addicted, here’s how to get it under control.

HEAL 15

HORMONE BALANCE - There’s a relationship between a healthy gut and hormones. A holistic approach takes toxic overload and gut health into consideration when balancing hormones. HOMEOPATHY EXPLAINED - We look at homeopathy and explain the principles of healing, homeopathic formulations and the value of supporting the body’s own healing mechanisms. 5 FAVOURITE SUPPLEMENTS - From cumin to dong quai, we pull out our favourites.

ON THE COVER

We speak to our gorgeous cover model and actor Ebby Weyime about how she ‘lives life well’. We’re so delighted to have her on our cover, to us, she represents the epitome of ‘womaness’ and co-incidentally her birthday falls on Women’s Day. Happy Birthday Ebby! How do I live life well? Waking up early is key for me. The older I get the more I realize just how beneficial it is to sleep and wake up around the same time everyday. A typical day would be getting up at 4:15 am so that I make it to the gym by 5am. Gets me pumped and active the whole day, by 9:30pm I’m ready for bed. (We’ve also heard a rumour that Ebby is a wizard hula hooper)

44 NURTURE 40

NATURAL BIRTH CONTROL - Have millions of women been put under severe risk with the birth control pill? Whether the answer is yes or no, there are more natural methods that are totally safe and easily available to women.

NATURAL FERTILITY - Being in tune with our bodies, following the moon and noticing daily body changes can determine our fertility days. Here’s how to do it.

ANTI-AGEING SKIN SECRETS - Whether it’s attitude, diet, nurture, supplements or other interventions, you can change the way your skin reacts to ageing.

GROW 48

PLANT CONNECTION – Most people think of plants for use in medicine and food or to decorate gardens, this article looks at a special connection with the plant world, seeing them as equal manifestations in the same intricately connected network. PETAL POWER – Flower essences heal on levels that other medicines don’t always reach. When you read through some of the conditions the remedies address you realise how subtle, and how understanding and empathic flowers are.

24 REGULARS 8

Events - Interesting Workshops, Training,

Editor’s Choice - Looks at our favourite

Meet our Supplier - We feature Himalaya

58 59 60

Fairs & Courses

products for August

and the products we love

Journey - Head off to Boschendal and gaze into the distance Read Well - Get cosy reading everything from miracles to being quiet

Classified - Lets you know what’s

happening in your wellness community with workshops, retreats, therapies and more

MOVE 56

BELLY DANCING – Belly dancing is not just a dance style but an expression of culture and tradition, passed down through families for centuries. We look at this style of dance that honours the belly.

Favorite wellness tip? Learn to find peace from within before anything else. About me: I am a Kenyan born actor and model currently living in Cape Town. I have worked on so many international movies and series, recently the just released ‘Eye in the sky’ with Hellen Mirren. More of my work is on my IMDb page or website www.ebbyweyime.com

MODEL: Ebby Weyime PHOTOGRAPHER: Anton Robert STYLIST: Bernadette McCabe LOCATION: Montebello Design Centre. Ebby’s necklace and the chair she is sitting on come from Montebello Craft shop in Newlands, Cape Town

helping you live life well

OUT & ABOUT

AUG

by Lara Potgieter

LOVE YOUR LADY BITS, WALK FOR CHARITY, LEARN A NEW SKILL, BE INSPIRED BY A YOUNG SONGSTRESS AND TRULY GREEN UP YOUR ACT WITH OUR DIVERSE AND INSPIRING LINE-UP OF EVENTS THIS WOMEN’S MONTH.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JANE 8 AUGUST 2016

EARTH EXPO 11 TO 14 AUGUST 2016

Young Capetonian singer-songwriter Amy Tjasink will launch her debut EP - Average Jane - at Suikerbossie Restaurant in Hout Bay on 8 August. Anything but average, Amy offers a unique folk/country/pop vocal style accompanied by lyrical guitar and piano. Join her as she introduces her unique eight-track EP produced by Colin Sher at this intimate event. Pop/folk musician Kai Connor opens the floor, and DJ Cosher will perform at the after party. Canapés and cash bar available. Tickets available from www.webtickets.co.za.

Earth Expo 2016 provides a complete guide to sustainable living in every area of daily life. Taking place at Montecasino in Fourways, the expo aims to educate and inspire visitors to live a greener, healthier lifestyle at home, at the office, at school, and more. The unique house design is an exciting journey with practices relating to nutrition, décor and design, fashion and beauty, building and technology. Visit www. earthexpo.co.za or contact lauren@ earthexpo.co.za.

WOMEN’S DAY HIGH TEA 9 AUGUST 2016 Head off to Saldanha’s beautiful Blue Bay Lodge & Resort for an amazing day of inspiration, creativity and fashion. Tea tasting with Carmien Teas, a fashion show with Moooi Boutique, and guest speaker Hannes Koegelenberg from Ideas magazine are just some of the highlights. It starts at 10h00 and ends at 14h00. For more information or to book, call 022 714 1177. Bookings essential.

WOMANTHRIVE YONI EGG WORKSHOP 13 AUGUST Today, women are rarely encouraged to pay attention to or care for their intimate organs. With this lack of attention, knowledge and tools, many suffer from sexual discomfort, low libido, prolapsed wombs, hormonal imbalances, bladder issues, sexual trauma, low self confidence and other. Give your womb, vagina and ovaries a bit of healing attention in this intimate workshop in Noordhoek, Cape Town, Kheyrne Danu combines her knowledge of pelvic floor health, yoni egg work and heart-centered sexual

WOMANTHRIVE YONI EGG WORKSHOP

energy principles that aims to equip you with a sacred womb practice. For more information and bookings visit www.womanthrive.com or contact danu@womanthrive.com.

CHILDREN’S YOGA TEACHER TRAINING 13 AUGUST TO 11 DECEMBER 2016 Yoga4Kids has successfully been presenting children’s yoga teacher training programmes in South Africa since 2005. The training consists of four modules, and covers how to bring yoga, mindfulness and wellbeing to children at home, in the classroom, or in a therapeutic or non-profit environment. Upcoming 2016 trainings will be taking place in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban from August until December. For further information and bookings visit www.yoga4kids.co.za or contact suzie@yoga4kids.co.za.

HILLTOP SPA & YOGA RETREAT 19 – 21 AUGUST 2016 This gently healing and restorative yoga and wellness weekend in tranquil Swellendam include four-star accommodation with breathtaking views, delicious and nutritious superfood meals, green

smoothies, four yoga classes, a 60-minute spa treatment, a nutrition workshop, and a host of optional extras. For more information visit www.yogakitchen.co.za or contact retreat@yogakitchen.co.za.

FREE YOUR FASCIA 20 AUGUST 2016 Integrative medical doctor Dr. Ela Manga and personal trainer Leigh Cabral team up to offer an informative and experiential workshop at Woodlands Conscious Living Centre in Muldersdrift. The workshop is aimed at helping anyone struggling with chronic muscle tension, sports injuries, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia, back pain, fatigue, and more. Be guided through the anatomy and physiology of the fascinating fascia system, so often disregarded. Learn some amazing tricks and techniques to take care of your fascia after training or a long day. For information and bookings visit www.woodlandsconsciousliving. co.za or contact marjmurray.mm@ gmail.com.

BLISTERS FOR BREAD CHARITY FUN WALK 28 AUGUST 2016 Families, corporates, schools, clubs and friends all get together to walk either 5 km or 10 km in the 48th Blisters for Bread annual Fun Walk in Cape Town. It starts on Fritz Sonnenberg Road, outside Green Point Cricket Club. The event raises funds for the Peninsula School Feeding Association, which provides meals to hungry school children across Western Province. For further information and bookings visit www. psfa.org.za/entries-now-openblisters-bread-2016/ or contact info@psfa.org.za.

IF YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU WANT TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS EMAIL robyn@wellnesswarehouse.com

helping you live life well

EDITOR’S CHOICE

TO THE WILD WOMAN BEING SPIRITUAL MEANS: WHISPERING TO TREES, LAUGHING WITH FLOWERS, FALLING IN LOVE WITH SUNSETS, CONSULTING THE WATERS AND WORSHIPPING THE STARS AT NIGHT. ONE HAND TO HER HEART AND ONE HAND TOUCHING MOTHER EARTH. SHIKOBA

Sips of Femininity The perfect treat to help bring you back to balance and bloom, Pukka’s Womankind combines beetroot, chamomile, hibiscus, cranberry, licorice, marigold, rose, shatavari and vanilla to create a cup of truly feminine nourishment. The leading therapeutic herb is the shatavari, a member of the asparagus family that hails from Rajasthan and has been valued for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its contribution to women’s wellbeing. We of course also love the fact that the name ‘shatavari’ has come to mean ‘she who has 100 husbands’! The soothing sip smells and tastes delicious, and the packaging couldn’t be more divinely feminine. Pukka’s Womankind Tea 20’s R109

Covering All Your Bases Metagenics is one of the few professional nutraceutical companies that formulates, manufactures and evaluates nutritional products in clinical practice. The particularly great thing about their Women’s Essentials box is that it simplifies things for those of us who tend to become easily overwhelmed by too much information and advice. It contains 30 convenient once-daily packets, each with a powerful multivitamin with iron; a bone-building combination of calcium, phosphorus, trace minerals and more; and a high-quality omega-3 fatty acid formula for heart health, mood and overall health support. The fact that all this targeted support is specifically tailored for women of course makes it even more of a nobrainer for those serious about wellbeing. Woman’s Essentials from Metagenics 30’s R999

Rise and Thrive

Coming up Roses Rose Geranium oil from Still Pure has so many beneficial qualities but I love it purely for its amazing uplifting aroma. If you want to add fragrance to your life, just sprinkle rose geranium on everything from your pillows to clothing and in your bath. It also has an antibacterial effect and fights body odour so you can use it as a deodorant too. Rose geranium helps fight infection in wounds and helps them heal faster. Add some to your moisturizer and it will help fade and remove scars and spots from the body. It does this by stimulating blood circulation just below the skin, helping promote a uniform distribution of melanin in the skin. Because of its astringent qualities, this essential oil can also help lessen the appearance of wrinkles. It’s the perfect aid to any beauty treatments.

SuperThrive for Women is a deeply nourishing formula that can be added to smoothies, medicinal chocolate, green juice, or simply enjoyed as a hot beverage. Although it contains an impressive line-up of therapeutic ingredients the likes of mesquite, cacao, tulsi, hemp, ashwagandha and more, its neutral flavour makes it a perfect addition to almost any healthful concoction. It has been formulated for adrenal support, weight and energy balance, circulatory support and reproductive health, amongst other things. I personally swear by starting my day with two teaspoons of it in my morning power smoothie. SuperThrive for Women 200g R199.99

Dirt Wars & Environmental Peace We can’t decide what impresses us more: the ingenious name and packaging of this product, or the fact that it’s completely people-, planet- AND pocket-friendly. Armed with powerful enzymes, the Bacterrorist all-purpose cleaner works on everything from the kitchen sink and the toilet bowl to your favourite stainless steel appliances. It’s made from a consortium of natural organisms and enzymes, and is free of nasties like petrochemicals, phosphates and artificial fragrances. Definitely a terrorist we don’t mind having around the house! Bacterrorist all-purpose cleaner SHOP ALL ONLINE AT WELLNESSWAREHOUSE.COM

helping you live life well

CONNECT, SHARE

& spread some love

Congratulations to @mare_lizee for being our July winner! We hope you enjoy your R500 Wellness voucher!

WINNING POST

share your wellness moments with us and stand a chance to

WIN R500 12

helping you live life well

Live life well by sharing your wellness moments with us on social media. Every month weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll select our favourite social media post to win R500 to spend at any Wellness Warehouse or online. Remember to tag us in your posts: @WellnessWarehouse on Facebook and Instagram and @Wellnews on Twitter

WARM-UPS

Kloof Caf is

Launching our

NEW Winter Menu

wellnesscaf

eat

WINTER SPINACH, SHITAKE & QUINOA

nutty salad

THIS SALAD SERVED HOT OR COLD HAS A POWERHOUSE OF NUTRIENTS DESIGNED TO BOOST YOUR MOOD. QUINOA IS AN AWESOME VEGAN PROTEIN SOURCE (PROVIDING THE 9 ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS WE NEED) AND IS A GLUTEN FREE COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATE WITH FUEL FOR THE BRAIN. THE B VITAMINS, IRON AND SELENIUM FOUND IN MUSHROOMS AND SPINACH HELPS FIGHT DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY. SAFFRON IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS MOOD ENHANCING PROPERTIES. Serves 2 to 4

INGREDIENTS 1/3 CUP RED-WINE VINEGAR 1/3 CUP OLIVE OIL COARSE HIMALAYAN SALT AND GROUND PEPPER PINCH OF SAFFRON 240G FRESH SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS, STEMS REMOVED, CAPS HALVED

1 CUPS RAW QUINOA 200G BABY SPINACH 200G FETA CHEESE ROASTED NUT AND SEED SPRINKLE

1. Whisk together vinegar, oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. 2. Cook the mushrooms with half the dressing until tender and liquid has evaporated. 3. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa in 3 cups water, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium. Cover, and simmer until liquid has been absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. 4. Place spinach in a large bowl; add hot mushrooms, quinoa, and reserved dressing. Toss to combine (spinach will wilt slightly). Top with crumbled feta, seed sprinkle and serve. 5. Add a pinch of saffron spice to the dressing as a great mood uplifter.

This recipe was compiled by Judith Johnson, a private practicing dietician and advisory to Wellness Warehouse in Cape Town. She has 25 years of experience in private practice, specialising in sports nutrition, diabetes care, weight management, functional nutrition therapy, holistic well being and Natural and complementary Medicine. â&#x20AC;¨Through her own journey with health challenges, she discovered the benefits of mind, body and soul wellness. You can contact her on Judith@wellnesswarehouse.com

helping you live life well

health

The body desires a state of balance and harmony between oestrogen and progesterone and therefore a state of oestrogen dominance may contribute to a myriad of health issues (including PMS and other hormone-related conditions). Sufficient fibre and water intake, alongside a high quality probiotic supplement, is essential to support a healthy microflora environment in the gut and promote regular bowel movements, thereby supporting excretion of excess oestrogen from the body. High fibre foods include: organic vegetables and fruit, milled flax seeds, whole rolled oats and chia seeds.

NATURAL

HEALTH TIPS FROM THE COLLEGE OF NATURAL HEALTH

A relationship between gut issues and hormone imbalances Many (if not most) women struggle with symptoms and conditions related to imbalances in their reproductive hormones: acne, PMS, endometriosis, infertility, mood imbalances, brain fog and water retention, to name just a few. Two primary considerations for hormonal balance that are often overlooked are gut health and toxic overload. In allopathic healthcare these aspects are seemingly unrelated to hormone systems, whereas a holistic approach considers both of these as key drivers in hormonal dysregulation. Oestrogen, one of the primary female reproductive hormones, is recycled in the liver and then attached to a specific component, glucuronide, to form a complex ready for excretion through the gut. If there is an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the gut, they may produce an enzyme (beta glucuronidase) that clips oestrogen off from glucuronide, rendering it free and readily available for re-uptake into circulation. This re-uptake of oestrogen may increase circulating oestrogen levels and contribute to an imbalance of oestrogen and progesterone levels, also known as ‘oestrogen dominance’.

did you know?

An overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the gut (‘dysbiosis’) can contribute to hormonal imbalances.

Irregular bowel movements may prevent excretion of oestrogen and introduce another pathway for oestrogen to be reabsorbed into circulation. Irregular bowel movements may also prevent recycled toxins from being excreted through the gut. This may, in similar fashion to oestrogen reabsorption, cause a re-uptake of toxins into circulation and increase the amount of toxins circulating or being stored in the body. Toxins may act as endocrine disruptors – in other words, disrupting hormone systems in the body by interfering with communication between hormones, cells, tissues and target organs. This explains why a detoxification programme, coupled with gut support and organic food, may effectively support hormone balance in the body. If you’re experiencing symptoms that relate to hormonal imbalances and your gut health is sub-optimal, I suggest you work alongside a Natural Health Practitioner to uncover what the underlying drivers of gut dysfunction are, so a personalised programme can be developed to support gut health, toxin excretion and hormone balance.

The College of Natural Health in Johannesburg is running a Detox, Cleanse & Weight Loss Short Course on the first two Saturdays in September, where safe and effective detox strategies will be discussed, alongside sustainable and personalised weight loss strategies. For more information: info@collegeofnaturalhealth.co.za

This article was written by JEANNE VAN ZYL, a Dietary Educator and a Nutrition Lecturer at CNH (College of Natural Health). The college trains students across South Africa in a range of natural therapies. www. collegeofnaturalhealth.co.za

helping you live life well

eat

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

THE A TO Z OF AN EGG IF YOU CONSIDER THE FACT THAT AN EGG CONTAINS ALL THE NUTRIENTS NEEDED TO TURN A SINGLE CELL INTO A CHICK, IT MAKES SENSE THAT IT RANKS AMONGST THE MOST NUTRITIOUS FOODS AROUND. HERE’S AN A TO Z OF WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM THE LITTLE POWERHOUSE…

DID YOU KNOW? • • • • •

•

An average hen lays 300 to 325 eggs a year. The average non-vegan person consumes 173 eggs a year. The colour of an egg yolk is determined by a hen’s diet. As a hen grows older, she produces larger eggs. Eggs age more in one day at room temperature than in one week in the fridge. Howard Helmer - the fastest omelette maker in the world – can make 427 two-egg omelettes in 30 minutes. helping you live life well

VITAMIN A One large egg contains 6% of the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin A, which plays an important role in bone growth, reproduction and immune health. VITAMIN B Eggs contain all the B vitamins that help keep us energised and allow our bodies to function optimally: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, choline, biotin and folic acid. CHOLINE Eggs contain choline - an important nutrient that most of us don’t even know about. Choline is used to build cell membranes, and plays a role in producing signalling molecules in the brain (amongst other things). VITAMIN D Eggs are a good source of vitamin D, which the body needs for absorbing calcium and maintaining good bone health. VITAMIN E Eggs contain vitamin E, which is a powerful anti-oxidant that helps to protect cell

membranes against damage caused by free radicals.

associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and various other health concerns.

FOLATE One large egg contains 5% of the recommended dietary allowance of the B vitamin folate, which plays an important role in DNA synthesis and repair.

IODINE Eggs are one of the few foods that contain iodine, a mineral essential for proper thyroid functioning.

“

HEALTHIER, HAPPIER CHICKENS LAY EGGS THAT ARE IN TURN BETTER FOR US. ALWAYS ASK WHERE YOUR EGGS COME FROM AND HOW THE CHICKENS THAT LAY THEM ARE RAISED.

“

GOOD FATS Of the five total grams of fat in one large egg, about three grams are ‘good fats’ that are beneficial to health. HDL Eggs raise HDL – the ‘good’ cholesterol

HEALTH BOOSTING TURMERIC & COCONUT DRINKS

JUNIORS It’s especially important for growing children to get their fair share of the high-quality protein found in eggs. VITAMIN K Eggs contain vitamin K, which plays a key role in preventing excessive bleeding. LUTEIN Eggs are a source of lutein, an antioxidant beneficial to eye health. MAGNESIUM One large egg offers 9% of the recommended dietary intake of magnesium, which can help reduce the symptoms of conditions such as chronic pain, fatigue and insomnia (amongst many other things).

Scientific research & ancient wisdom agree TURMERIC IS GOOD FOR YOU! Studies show that turmeric may help

REDUCE INFLAMMATION FIGHT INFECTIONS TREAT DIGESTIVE ISSUES

eat

NUTRIENTS Eggs contain no fewer than 14 key nutrients beneficial to the functioning of the human body.

Gene-based Personalised Health and Nutrition

OMEGA-3S Virtually all egg yolks contain omega-3 (although the amount of omega-3s varies with the amount of foods containing omega-3s that are eaten by the hen). The health benefits of omega-3s are numerous, with the most significant relating to heart, brain and bone health. PROTEIN Eggs are a source of quality protein, which contains all the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce itself. QUICK & EASY Eggs are one of the quickest and easiest nutrient-rich foods to prepare.

You would not build a house without plans, nor embark on a road trip without a map. CTG is the first clinical centre of its kind in the world; offering you a unique opportunity to translate your genetic results into diet, lifetsyle and health recommendations. Headed up by the Nutrigenomics expert Dr Yael Joffe PhD RD, the medical and nutrition team at CTG offer Gene-based Personalised Health and Nutrition interventions. CTG works with genetic tests that cover the areas of: •

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•

Optimal Health

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•

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RIBOFLAVIN Eggs contain riboflavin, which works as an antioxidant to fight free radicals. Riboflavin also helps the body to change vitamin B6 and folate into forms it can use. SELENIUM Eggs contain 22% of the recommended dietary allowance of selenium, an essential trace mineral that is important for cognitive function, a healthy immune system, and fertility. THIAMIN Also known as vitamin B1, Thiamin is a vital human nutrient that helps to maintain a healthy nervous system and good cardiovascular functioning. One large egg offers 6% of the recommended dietary allowance of thiamin. UNIQUE Eggs offer a unique combination of nutrients in a relatively small number of calories. VITAMINS Aside from offering significant amounts of vitamins B12, B2, B5 and A, eggs also contain small amounts of almost every vitamin required by the human body. WEIGHT LOSS Thanks mainly to their high protein content, eggs are very filling, and have been known to increase satiety and reduce appetite.

helping you live life well

Not All Eggs Are Equal When it comes to sourcing your eggs, make sure you opt for the ‘pasture raised’ option. Don’t be distracted by terms like ‘cage free’, ‘free range’, and ‘grain fed’. ‘Cage free’ only means that the chickens are not in cages. They can however still be confined in very close quarters, and have little to no access to the outdoors. ‘Free range’ only means that the chickens are given access to the outdoors, without specifying for how long they are allowed outside, or the quality of their ‘outdoor’ area. ‘Pasture raised’ is the descriptor currently used by sustainable farmers whose chickens live outside on fresh pastures. Aside from the obvious ethical benefits of this, we need to remember that healthier, happier chickens lay eggs that are in turn better for us. Enquire after the source of the eggs at your local grocer or, better yet, buy yours directly from the farmers or at your nearest organic market.

X-FACTOR The sterling nutritional profile of eggs has given them such an edge over other health foods that they are often referred to as ‘nature’s multivitamins’. YOLKS The yolk of an egg contains almost all the vitamins and minerals of the egg. ZINC Egg yolks are a good source of zinc, which offers us many health benefits, including improved immunity and digestion.

KNOW YOUR EGG It’s not easy finding truly pasture reared eggs in South Africa. Somebody who really is helping to break through all the misleading marketing and provide wholesome eggs from hens that are truly free to range (not so called ‘free-range’) is Farmer Angus. Stockbrocker-turned-BioDynamic farmer Angus McIntosh practices open source outdoor egg production on his farm in Stellenbosch, where his chickens sleep in specially designed ‘Eggmobiles’ at night, and are then free to graze on different parts of the farm during the day (the Eggmobiles are moved daily in order for the grazed land to be fertilised by the chicken manure). The hens are also fed a 100% non-GMO diet. This is in stark contrast to the lives of the so-called ‘free-range’ hens, which are in effect raised in barns with occasional access to the outside, and a fence a few metres from this rarely opened exit that stops them from ever ranging too far. The ‘free-range’ label is, as Angus points out, merely the industry’s way of diverting attention from the fact that 24 out of 25 million laying hens in South Africa are cage raised, with less than the size of an A4 page for the hen to live on. But there is hope, and it comes in the form of ethical producers like Farmer Angus. His eggs are available at Wellness on Kloof, as well as a range of other retailers and restaurants. For more information visit www.farmerangus.co.za.

Available at health shops & selected pharmacies

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hide your skin problems. Prevent it.

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“Prevention is better than cure.” These words of wisdom hold true when it comes to the matter of your skin. Prevention is far more advantageous than instant curative techniques as it helps keep the skin natural and pure, just the way nature meant it to be. Our range of Neem products Purifying Neem Face Wash is a soap-free daily use gel that cleanses and refreshes your skin without over-drying. It leaves you with skin that is clear, problem-free and is soft and supple to the touch. Purifying Neem Foaming Face Wash is a soap-free foaming face wash that spreads smoothly over your face and removes excess oil and impurities without over-drying. Purifying Neem Daily Scrub works gently with a dual exfoliation and purifying action to give you clear, problem-free skin. Purifying Neem Mask helps regulate excess oil secretion, cleans clogged pores and prevents recurrence of pimples, thus giving you glowing skin.

Why Himalaya Herbals? Women are willing to try all types of products and formulations to clear their skin of recurring problems. But the secret is to prevent them before they even occur.

Himalaya Herbals Neem based products are ideal for cleansing the skin. Neem, a natural and effective antibacterial herb, kills problem-causing bacteria, and combined with turmeric, it helps control acne, pimples and their recurrence. Regular use of Himalaya Herbals Neem based products will give you clear skin that is free of spots and breakouts.

Himalaya Herbals Neem based products are effective in preventing skin problems as they keep the skin pure. Their natural (herbal) based products are backed by scientiﬁc evaluation, and are widelyused across 80 countries. They have no sideeffects and are effective, yet gentle. Try Himalaya Herbals products and the results will be there for you to see for yourself. Keep your skin pure.

Keep your skin pure FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.HIMALAYAHERBALS.COM. SHOP ONLINE AT WELLNESSWAREHOUSE.COM

BULLETIN

THE LYNO METHOD After hearing so much about a movementbased system called Lyno, and the far reaching effects it has, we sent one of our team to try it out. She happened to have long lasting nagging back pain so was perfect for the task. Sandra reports: For months I’ve had lower back pain. All the different therapies I tried, from physiotherapy to various massages and acupuncture gave me some relief, but only temporary. My Pilates teacher was baffled and suggested I try the Lyno Method®. It’s a system developed to facilitate and restore neutral movement patterns and flow in the whole body.

Benita Kropman who developed this technique performed a series of tests on me. Although I thought Benita was a therapist and was going to fix my back, to my surprise she was simply going to analyse my movement and help me shift into better patterns of movement. She uses 65 tests to analyse all the different movement patterns in the body. The tests show comparisons and reveal how the body is functioning. One of the tests is the ‘Bunkie test’ (from the Afrikaans word bench). During this test I had to lie down on my back with my feet on a bench and lift my body into various plank poses lifting one leg up and down, then repeating the movements on my sides. This test shows my strengths and weaknesses. From these precise measurements of strength and flexibility it showed my connective tissue was keeping me stuck in a pattern that can cause wear and tear on the body. Rather than bad posture from computer work, Benita felt it originated from an old injury. When I was 10 years old I hit my head really hard in a car accident. The mighty jolt misaligned my back but in those days they treated the bleeding head and not so much the misalignment. My incorrect posture pattern is very likely from the accident.

Now it was time for the actual work. She then facilitated movement in the pattern that was locked by making me move in a certain way while she applied what felt like massage. For the massage she used a cream. My job was to roll backwards and forwards with her movements. It felt like rough sandpaper and I asked if she was using an exfoliating cream. She laughed and said “I am using avocado butter cream, there is nothing rough about it.” The sensation was hyaluronic acid gaining movement. Benita explained that the whole body is surrounded by a ‘wetsuit ’ consisting of the skin and the layer of superficial fascia, which acts together as one layer. Between this wetsuit layer and the muscles is a space filled with hyaluronic acid, which allows the body to move freely within the ‘wetsuit’. My hyaluronic acid had become stuck like glue causing my lower back to lock. I have been for four sessions and it’s the one single thing that’s made a huge difference in my life - I no longer have a stabbing pain in my lower back and I feel really balanced and well aligned.

For more information or to make an appointment with a certified Lyno coach, call 021 683 4260.

THE CEDERBERG CATWOMAN by Lara Potgieter Ten years ago, Jeanine Mitchell encountered a hybrid Siamese/African wildcat on Oudrif, her popular retreat farm in the foothills of the Cederberg. While she took him on as her own and grew very fond of him, she knew that the interbreeding of domestic/feral and wildcats was threatening the already endangered African wildcat population of the area. She decided to take matters into her own hands to help conserve the precious species. Jeanine began by educating

farmers on the importance of sterilising their domestic cats, and after three years of gentle yet determined negotiations, she was able to begin sterilizing the cats. She did this with the help of Dr. Annelize Roos from EnviroVet CVC, a satellite community veterinary clinic that provides primary veterinary care to indigent South African communities unable to use private vets. Jeanine’s goal is to stabilise the domestic and feral cat populations in small rural

villages along the West Coast, from Oudrif all the way up to Sendlings Drift. She knows it will take a few years, but is determined to continue with the work. The breeding of unsterilised domestic and feral cats with African wildcats is spreading diseases and diluting the purity of the wildcat breed. In her forward-thinking way, Jeanine is helping prevent the destruction of the African wildcat population, as well as larger cats like the leopard, caracal, and black-footed cat (possibly already extinct) in the area. To date, Jeanine and Dr. Roos have sterilised 2000 of their goal of 6000 domestic and feral cats. It costs an average of R350 per cat to do this, and Jeanine relies on donations and her own resources to finance the project. If you’d like to help her in this worthy pursuit, donations of any scale would be most appreciated.

Visit www.oudrif.co.za/claws.htm or contact Jeanine on oudrif@telkomsa. net for details on how you can make a contribution.

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NEW RANGE IN SELECTED STORES W A NE MUL R FO

FIND YOUR STYLE Cape Town based, Sharmn Cola is the style icon and brains behind the brand Kaika, a boutique company that helps women find their authentic style through a bespoke selection of jewelry with an emphasis on original pieces. “Creating a signature style is key to feeling confident and at ease with the way you look. Wearing jewelry goes such a long way in helping you achieve that and it’s my passion and pleasure to offer the means to do this.”

It was inspired by Sharmn’s insatiable love for design and the freedom of expression that wearing jewelry brings. The name comes from ‘her two most precious gems’ her sons Kai and Kane. She has an incredible sensibility when it comes to interpreting style, her origins cross both Persian and Nordic worlds giving her a unique design perspective and refreshing originality. Extensive travel, oftentimes off the beaten track enables her to source original statement pieces and keep abreast of styles and brands.

“

I’VE ALWAYS LOVED WEARING RARE AND UNUSUAL PIECES OF JEWELLERY, MY PHILOSOPHY IS TO BE ABLE TO OFFER MY CLIENTS WHAT I LOVE – TO BE BOLD, DIFFERENT AND STYLISH.

“

60 Caps

The ingredients in Femplus were carefully combined in this formula to assist with the relief of menstrual and pre-menopausal symptoms.

Mood 60 Caps

Mood contains a combination of natural ingredients elected for its effect on calmness, self esteem and well-being.

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On meeting Sharmn you automatically feel inspired. She’s truly embraced her own signature style and has an amazing

Visit Sharmn’s website www.kaikajewellery.com or Kaika Jewels on facebook.

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Kaika was formed with the intention of giving women the choice and freedom to express their individual style through pieces they feel drawn to and that best reflect their personality.

way of encouraging other women to do the same. Her advice and suggestions are invaluable and more than simply being a jewelry outlet, she has an empowering approach to self-expression. She quickly gets to know what will best suit each of her clients and is always on-hand to offer advice or to source the perfect piece. Her collection is constantly updated and comprises select and sought after designs with a range of price points making it accessible according to different budgetary requirements.

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Kill-A-Germ act as an antioxidant and have antiviral and antibacterial effects. It boosts the natural immune system and is known for preventing the common cold. It is an ideal product to take during times when the body is subjected to possible infections.

For more information visit us at www.pmrnutrition.co.za Email info@pmrnutrition.co.za Find us on Follow us on 23

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recipe

EGGPLANT

meat balls

THERE ARE A WHOLE LOT OF PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT CLAIM EGGPLANT IS THEIR MOST FAVOURITE AND VERSATILE FRUIT (IT’S APPARENTLY CONFUSED AS A VEGETABLE BUT IS ACTUALLY A FRUIT). THERE’S EVEN A TURKISH DISH CALLED IMAM BAYILDI, THAT ROUGHLY TRANSLATES AS ‘THE PRIEST FAINTED’. THE PRIEST WAS REPORTEDLY OVERWHELMED BY THE FLAVOUR. EGGPLANT IS AN EXCELLENT REPLACEMENT FOR MEAT. HERE’S A RECIPE THAT’S JUST AS FULFILLING AS ITS MEAT COUNTERPART. Serves 8 people

INGREDIENTS 5 MEDIUM UNPEELED EGGPLANTS OLIVE OIL HIMALAYAN SALT TO TASTE ¼ TSP BLACK PEPPER 2 CRUSHED GARLIC CLOVES 2 TBSP CHOPPED BASIL 1½ CUPS BREADCRUMBS (YOU CAN ALSO USE RYE, WHEAT FREE OR ESSENE BREAD) 1 LARGE EGG 5 TBSP NUTRITIONAL YEAST FLAKES OR 200G OF GRATED PECORINO CHEESE 1 TBSP CHOPPED FLAT-LEAF PARSLEY

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1. Cut your eggplant into round disks about 1cm in width. Massage each one with a small amount of olive oil, just enough to cover each slice. 2. Put all the pieces of egg plant flat around the baking dish and grill them for about 10 minutes then turn and grill another 5 minutes. You may need two baking dishes so each piece has space to lie flat. 3. Once cooked, put them in a blender and blend them into a mash. 4. Make breadcrumbs out of your chosen bread. Do this by toasting the bread and blending into crumbs. 5. Add the crumbs to your eggplant mash. Beat the egg and add that too, then the yeast flakes (or Pecorino cheese), garlic, basil, parsley, salt and pepper. 6. Roll your mixture into about 20 balls and bake in an oven on 180 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes. 7. Serve them with a homemade tomato sauce and ricotta cheese.

“

“NEVER GIVE EGGPLANT A FREE HAND WITH OIL, THEY ARE TERRIBLE OLD SOAKS AND WILL DRINK UP HOWEVER MUCH YOU ADD,” SAYS ANNIE BELL, AUTHOR OF GORGEOUS VEGETABLES. “START WITH JUST A LITTLE, AND WITH TIME THEY WILL BEHAVE THEMSELVES AND SOFTEN UP.”

“

eat recipe

MACA MAGIC MACA IS A PERFECT SUPERFOOD TO LEARN ABOUT IN OUR WOMAN’S ISSUE. IT HAS AMAZING BENEFITS THAT INCLUDE HORMONAL SUPPORT, ENHANCED FERTILITY, LONGEVITY AND THYROID SUPPORT, IT’S A NATURAL APHRODISIAC AND KEEPS STRESS AND ANXIETY AT BAY. IT ALSO IMPROVES IMMUNITY AND BRAIN FUNCTION. THE BEST PART IS YOU CAN DRINK IT IN DELICIOUS VERSIONS OF HOT CHOCOLATE AND MALTY TREATS.

MACA HORLICKS Maca’s malty flavour makes it a great alternative to Horlicks. Drink it warm and feel the magic. Makes 2 cups

INGREDIENTS 500ML HOT WATER ¼ CUP CASHEWS 1 ½ TBSP MACA POWDER ¼ TSP VANILLA EXTRACT 1 ½ TBSP CACAO BUTTER 1 TBSP LUCUMA POWDER 2 TBSP HONEY A PINCH OF SALT

Blend everything together and enjoy it while it’s warm.

MACA HOT CHOCOLATE Makes 2 cups

INGREDIENTS 1 ½ CUPS OF HOT WATER 2 TBSP CACAO POWDER 1 TBSP MACA POWDER 1 TSP HEMP SEEDS 1 TSP LUCUMA POWDER 1 TSP MESQUITE POWDER 2 TBSP HONEY 1 TBSP COCONUT OIL

Blend all the ingredients together until they are very well combined.

RECIPE SUPPLIED BY PETER AND BERYN DANIEL FROM THE MAGIC OF SUPERFOODS (SOARING FREE)

helping you live life well

HERE ARE OUR TOP

3 SUPERFOOD CHOICES

FOR WOMEN THIS AUGUST

SPIRULINA

MACA True warriors of the world, women need maca as a close ally. Due to the high altitude, harsh environment and extremely mineral rich soils in which maca grows, this superfood imbibes and imbues invincible strength. Particular to women, maca is of great interest as a source of hormonal precursors and supports a women throughout all stages of life. It helps to regulate and normalise the menstrual cycle, enhances fertility, supports breast milk production, provides a natural solution to hormone replacement therapy and relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats. Because it increases oxygenation in the blood it is also a natural aphrodisac, enhancing libido and feelings of wellbeing. It is also an overall vitality and longevity food!

This blue-green algae is a powerhouse of nutritional density. Over 60% protein by weight, high in calcium, B vitamins, EFAs, phytonutrients, antioxidants, GLA, chlorophyll, minerals and more. This melting pot of superior nutrition supports metabolism regulation making it easy to maintain healthy weight and increased energy levels. It slows down the aging process by reducing free radical damage. Cleansing and detoxifying, it helps with skin regeneration, hydration of mature dry skin and increases skin elasticity. With its high absorbable protein, it facilitates the repair of tissues and builds neurotransmitters – especially PEA ‘the love chemical’ helping you to feel happier, less stressed and younger!

RAW CACAO Every woman loves chocolate, and here is why: Besides being extraordinarily delicious, raw cacao is also exceptionally healthy. It is high in heart supporting mineral magnesium. It’s high in antioxidants, transforming free radicals and slowing aging. It also contains PEA, known as ‘the love chemical’ and Anandamide, known as ‘the bliss chemical’ – a great neurotransmitter combination to improve mental clarity, mood and overall happiness. It is also a great high energy-boosting food.

SOARING FREE SUPERFOODS

www.superfoods.co.za . www.rawlicious.co.za 0861 000 976

Soaring Free Superfoods imports the highest quality, organic and wild-harvested superfoods from around the world. With high integrity sourcing from farms and forests, plus concentrated nutritional potency, these Superfoods represent ancient wisdom combined with great taste for abundant energy.

health

FATS &

THE FACTS by Carmen Potgieter

EATING LOADS OF AVOS AND CONSUMING AN ABUNDANCE OF OLIVE OIL DOESN’T NECESSARILY EQUATE TO AN EXPANDED WAISTLINE. CARMEN POTGIETER IS LIVING PROOF OF THIS. AFTER MUCH PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH A HIGH FAT DIET, A BACKGROUND AS AN ANALYTICAL CHEMIST AND AN EXTENSIVE EXAMINATION OF UDO ERASMUS’ BOOK FATS THAT HEAL FATS THAT KILL, CARMEN IS DETERMINED TO PUT AN END TO THE BELIEF THAT FATS MAKE YOU FAT.

did you know?

Refined Sugar is almost always broken down into fats and mostly unwanted Saturated Fatty Acids. Increased blood sugar also interferes with the release of Linoleic acid (LA) a crucial Essential Fatty Acid.

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Just as all proteins are not equal, all fats are most definitely not equal. It is simply impossible to write an article on the good and the bad of fats without adding some biology. We start with two main groups: Saturated Fatty Acids (SaFAs) and Unsaturated Fatty Acids (UFAs). SATURATED FATTY ACIDS Saturated Fatty Acids are insoluble in water and carry no electrical charge which makes them stick together. This means they play a detrimental role in Cardiovascular disease forming plague on cells, organs and arteries. Udo calls them sluggish molecules. They are especially abundant in beef, mutton,

pork and dairy products. Saturated Fatty Acids decrease oxygen supply to the tissues which encourages red blood cells to stick together and become less mobile, this means less oxygen is delivered to the cells. A saturated compound is a chemical compound that has a chain of carbon atoms linked together by single bonds. THE SHORT, MEDIUM & LONG Short-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids have a carbon count of between 4 and 6. In isolation, they are liquid but they’re seldom found on their own. Usually they are found in small percentage alongside medium

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d len l B !!! i O E -9 IN -6 CH li 3 MA sO E o’ L TH d U OI

health

Saturated Fatty Acids like butter, milk fat, coconut and palm kernel oil. Our bodies use Short-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids to produce energy. Butyric acid with a carbon count of four is the shortest one. Medium-Chain Saturated Fatty acids have a carbon count between 6 and 12. Coconut oil comprises two thirds of Medium Chain Saturated Fatty Acids. Medium chained Fatty Acids are absorbed and metabolized directly in the liver and used for energy. Just like Short Chain Fatty Acids, Medium Chained Fatty Acids cannot be stored as fat, unlike Long Chain Fatty acids. Long Chain Saturated Fatty Acids have a carbon count from 12 to 22. These Fatty acids contribute to positive functions in the body, such as cell membrane formation. A good source is seafood and eggs. If you prefer plant based fats, there are an abundance of options that give the body the building blocks it needs. Olive oil, avocados and the approximate 20% of Long Chain Fatty Acids in coconuts - the true food hero on all fatty acid levels. It’s important to note that anyone with liver or digestive challenges should keep to the short and medium chain Fatty Acids. UNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS (UFAS) Unsaturated Fatty Acids (UFAs) are found in avocado’s and macadamia nuts. They have one or more double bond between their carbon atoms. In this chemical structure, the two Hydrogen atoms at each double bond has been given up. This simple shift in structure contributes to all the amazing health benefits. Here are some of the benefits we get from the different UFA’s: 1. Oleic acid (18 carbons, double bond between 9 and 10) keep our arteries supple and is found in olives, avocado, cashews, peanuts, pistachio, macadamia and pecan nuts. David (Avocado) Wolfe, my favourite mentor and author of Eating for Beauty, lauds the beautiful skin benefits of Oleic acid in avocado – a perfect reason to have at least one a day. He’s also a fan of macadamia nuts. Besides Oleic acid it is the richest source of the UFA, Palmitoleic acid which acts as an antioxidant, and has hydrating qualities, preventing cell membrane deterioration and contributing to the restoration of damaged and burned skin. David stresses that even though

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macadamias are full of calories the quality and content of the calorie source creates a welcome increase in fat metabolism. 2. Alpha-linolenic Acid (LNA) - Omega 3 and Linoleic Acid (LA) – Omega 6 is found in flax, hemp seed, linseed, walnuts and dark leafy greens. These are called Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). The naming of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 is an indication of where the first carbon appears as a double bond in the molecular structure. EFAs attract oxygen. Udo calls them ‘oxygen magnets’. EFA’s are part of all our cell membranes. They have a slight negative charge, making them act in an opposite fashion to the ‘sticky’ UFAs. They repel each other, making them super reactive and keeping the membranes fluid. EFAs, particularly the omega-3 family are strong anti-oxidants, provide an immune boost, burn excess fat and play an important role in beautiful skin. EFAs are also the precursors to prostaglandins which are short lived, hormone like substances which regulate many cell functions. This means they show up for work when important functions are needed like protein synthesis; secretion of substances out of cells; transporting substances in and out of cells; releasing energy from cells; storing products made by the nucleus of the cells and the chromosomes. Linoleic Acid and LNA shorten the recovery time for fatigued muscles as they help convert lactic acid to water and carbon dioxide. Linoleic Acid specifically helps produce red blood cells (hemoglobin). It’s also the Essential Fatty Acid with the highest daily requirement. Hemp seed is the only food with the exact ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 for optimal functioning. It also contains Gammalinolenic Acid (GLA) - part of the omega-6 family. Flax seeds provide a therapautic quantity of omega-3. 3. Eicosapentaenoic Acid ( EPA ) and Docasahexaenoic Acid (DHA) form part of the omega-3 EFAs family. From the general qualities discussed above, we understand why these Essential Fatty Acids are such key components to

the most active organs in our body: brain, nerve relay stations (synapses), sense organs (retinas), adrenal glands and testes. Although fish oils are a brilliant source especially mackerel, salmon, trout and sardines, radioactive compounds and mercury content are at toxic levels in the ocean. Because mercury and radioactive compounds are particularly attracted to fatty tissue –getting EPA and DHA from the ocean is not as safe as it used to be. Over the last decade more and more mention has been made of eating lower down on the food chain. It lessens the possibility of environmental toxicity captured in the tissue and also offers environmental relief from producing large quantities of livestock. The good news is that DHA and EPA can be manufactured by LNA, which as mentioned before is abundantly available in flax, hemp and also Chia seeds. Udo Erasmus made it his life work to put together the perfect proportion of omega-3, omega-6, omega-9 our bodies want to perform at peak level. After years of intense research on the topic he found the the ratio is : Omega 3, 6, 9 = 2 : 1 : 1. He also found that the most damaging fats come from margarine, shortenings and heated oils. After reading this, I hope you are inspired towards guilt free gulps of olive oil, bigger slices of avo and jars filled with macadamia nuts and hemp seeds or failing that, a bottle of Udo oil as a replacement. All the scientific references are based on the phenomenal research done by Udo Erasmus – with a little input from my own background as an Analytical Chemist.

Carmen Potgieter is a David Wolfe plant based Nutritional coach. She lives in Oudtshoorn and is passionate about growing and living off nutritional organic food. Carmen’s life dream is to offer wellness retreats from a loving, supportive space and to inspire others towards the magical transformation that happens when our bodies operate at optimum health. See more information on www.rawlove.co.za or find Carmen on www.holistica.co.za

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SWEET SOLUTIONS by Lara Potgieter

IF YOU’VE EVER STRUGGLED TO CURB A SWEET TOOTH AND THEN GIVEN YOURSELF A HARD TIME FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO DO SO, PLEASE STOP BEATING YOURSELF UP RIGHT NOW. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! As a recovering sugar addict myself, I’m really enjoying the work of Australian author and activist Sarah Wilson. I’ve enthusiastically followed and learnt from her own journey, thoroughly enjoying all three of her colourful and inspirational books: I Quit Sugar (Macmillan, 2013), I Quit Sugar for Life (Macmillan, 2014), and Simplicious (Macmillan, 2015). Here’s my understanding of the basics that helped get me started on my own journey…

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Most of us grow up with an emotional and physical attachment to sugar. We turn to it when we want to celebrate, or when we’re feeling down. Today’s food system is seductively set up around sugar. You might think a muesli bar is a healthier alternative, and be surprised to find that it actually contains more sugar than a block of chocolate. Low-fat yoghurt can contain more sugar than ice cream. Cereal, dried fruit, fruit juice, everyday sauces – all laden

with surprisingly high amounts of sugar. Terms like ‘gluten free’ and ‘100% natural’ serve to distract us into thinking that what we’re eating is healthy, when they can really be among the highest fructose snacks around. Our bodies are not designed to eat a lot of fructose. Our ancestors would not have had easy access to it, and would have used the berry they found here and there

for something like an instant energy boost to chase down a kill for their real dinner. Aside from converting directly to fat in modern bodies, fructose can also inhibit our immune system, upset the mineral balance in our bodies, accelerate the ageing process, lead to digestive issues, mess with our hormones and increase anxiety, amongst other things. If you’re prone to energy slumps in the afternoon, carry a bit of excess weight around the middle, bloat after eating, look for something sweet after meals, or are unable to just eat one piece of cake and then walk away, you could probably benefit from cutting down on the sugar.

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Healthy blood sugar balance for effective weight management

The good news is that we can free ourselves from the highs and lows of the sugar cycle by taking our health into our own hands, experimenting with often simple ingredients in a myriad different ways to make our own tasty and truly healthy treats. Remember that us humans don’t respond well to restrictive ways of thinking. Incorporating these positive changes isn’t about going on a diet, or feeling that you’re doing something because you have to. It’s about loving yourself enough to make an investment in feeling better, and being gentle and kind to yourself in the process. For both psychological and physiological reasons, you’ll need to replace the sugar you’re removing from your diet with something else. Unprocessed fats and quality protein can help to fill you up and curb off cravings.

Here are some ways of including or increasing these in your diet: • Cook with ghee, coconut oil, butter and olive oil. • Pour olive, walnut and macadamia nut oils over your salads. • Eat full-fat dairy. • Replace the afternoon cravings with a few slices of grilled halloumi. • Replace the after-dinner cravings with toasted walnuts sprinkled with cinnamon on Greek yoghurt • Snack on almond or macadamia butter on a rice cake for an indulgent treat. • Add toasted seeds (such as pumpkin seeds) to everything from yoghurt and porridge to salads and sandwiches. • Make friends with avocado! • Keep boiled eggs on hand for snack attacks. • Add chia seeds to your smoothie or yoghurt in the morning.

Supports optimal blood sugar levels Balances sugar cravings Supports healthy energy levels

eat recipes But what about the sweetness factor? Here’s where it gets really fun. Take the time to try these delicious guilt-free sweet treat recipes from I Quit Sugar and Simplicious, by Sarah Wilson (Macmillan) and you’ll soon come to realise that there’s blissful indulgence to be found in sugar-free eating too. Just remember the golden rule: everything in moderation!

BERRY BITES

COCO-NUTTY GRANOLA Makes 5 cups

INGREDIENTS

Makes 12

INGREDIENTS 1 ¼ CUPS SHREDDED COCONUT 1 TABLESPOON RICE MALT SYRUP 1 TABLESPOON COCONUT OIL (MELTED) 2 TABLESPOONS COCONUT MILK 1 TEASPOON PURE VANILLA EXTRACT ½ CUP RASPBERRIES OR CHERRIES (FRESH OR FROZEN) 1 CUP CHOPPED RAW OR DARK (85% - 90%) CHOCOLATE

1. Line a baking tray with baking paper. 2. Place all the ingredients (except the chocolate) in a food processor. 3. Pulse until the mixture comes together but still has texture. 4. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls, place on the baking tray, and freeze for at least 1 hour. 5. Meanwhile, melt the raw or dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of boiling water on the stove (making sure the base of the bowl doesn’t touch the water).

6. Remove the coconut balls from the freezer and roll them in the melted chocolate so they are completely coated. 7. Return the balls to the lined tray and allow to set in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

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3 CUPS COCONUT FLAKES 2 CUPS ALMONDS, CASHEWS, PECANS, WALNUTS, PUMPKIN SEEDS (ROUGHLY CHOPPED) 2 TABLESPOONS CHIA SEEDS 1 TEASPOON GROUND CINNAMON (OPTIONAL) 100G COCONUT OIL, MELTED 3 TABLESPOONS RICE MALT SYRUP (OPTIONAL)

1. Preheat the oven to 120° and line a baking tray with baking paper. Combine all the ingredients, then spread evenly on the tray. 2. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes until golden, turning halfway through the cooking time. 3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool, then eat while still crispy.

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PUMPKIN AND COCONUT MUFFINS Makes 15

INGREDIENTS COCONUT OIL, BUTTER OR GHEE FOR GREASING 100G PUMPKIN ½ CUP COCONUT FLOUR, SIFTED ½ CUP ALMOND MEAL 2 TABLESPOONS GRANULATED STEVIA ½ CUP BASIL LEAVES ½ TEASPOON BAKING POWDER PINCH OF VANILLA POWDER 1 TEASPOON GROUND CINNAMON ¼ TEASPOON GROUND NUTMEG 6 EGGS 125 G COCONUT OIL, MELTED ¾ CUP WALNUTS, ROUGHLY CHOPPED SPLASH OF COCONUT WATER

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1. Preheat the oven to 190°and lightly grease 15 cups of a muffin tray. 2. Grate the pumpkin (preferably with a food processor). 3. Add the flour, almond meal, stevia, basil, baking powder, vanilla powder and spices to the pumpkin. 4. Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl, then use a wooden spoon to stir the eggs and coconut oil into the pumpkin mixture until the lumps are gone. 5. Gently stir in the walnuts. 6. Add coconut water, stirring, until the batter is thick. 7. Spoon into the muffin tray and bake for 15 – 20 minutes. 8. Serve warm or cold.

While xylitol, stevia and rice syrup are well-known substitutes for sugar and okay when used in moderation, you can also consider treating yourself to something like a bit of coconut sugar, barley malt syrup or yacon syrup when you’re allowing yourself an indulgent but slightly healthier treat from time to time.

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HOMEOPATHY EXPLORED by Kirsten Alexander

MOST PEOPLE ARE FAMILIAR WITH HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES, BUT WHAT YOU MIGHT NOT REALISE IS THAT IT’S FAR MORE THAN A FEW REMEDIES, IT’S A WHOLE SYSTEM OF HEALTH

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HOMEOPATHY IS THE SECOND MOST WIDELY USED NATURAL MEDICINE SYSTEM IN THE WORLD? CHINESE MEDICINE IS THE MOST USED.

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DID YOU KNOW? Homeopathy is also an environmentally-friendly form of medicine – remedies are produced by using very small amounts of natural resources and create almost exclusively biodegradable waste.

Over two hundred years ago, physician Samuel Hahnemann felt that the modern medicines on offer to his patients were actually more harmful than helpful. He stopped practising and spent time exploring ways to assist the body in doing what it would normally do when faced with disease – heal itself. Hahnemann wanted a holistic system, one that didn’t just address the symptoms of an illness, but that looked at the core cause. He wanted to offer his patients a truly beneficial wellness solution, without side effects. His first step was to look at the full effects of the medicines on offer in his time, on

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a healthy body. He took Peruvian bark, which was used at the time to treat malaria [it contains quinine], and found he came down with the same symptoms as a malaria sufferer. This lead to the first principle of homeopathy – the law of similars. In fact, this is where the name came from: homeo meaning similar and pathos meaning suffering. Hahnemann began testing all the medicines of the day on himself and his colleagues, noting the effects – these effects they called ‘provings’. They not only recorded the physical effects, but also the emotional effects.

E AV S H CT ST U U D M RO P

Today’s homeopaths take into consideration not just the prevailing symptoms of a patient, but their entire case history, taking into account all the emotional aspects as well. Whatever disturbances in a person’s health are found, are called the totality of symptoms. This is what is addressed, not just a set of symptoms. The prescription given is specific to the person, not merely a disease or illness. This means that patients suffering from the same malady might be prescribed a different remedy – this is one of the reasons it’s been difficult to conduct controlled studies of homeopathy. ENERGY INFUSED But it’s not just about dosing a person with what they’re suffering from; it was also about energising the minute doses. Because the medicines Hahnemann was dealing with were in fact toxic, he experimented with lower and lower dosages, using a process of serial dilution, whereby he would dilute a substance over and over. This dilution meant that there was very little of the original medicine left – which is what the scientific community sometimes kicks against, questioning homeopathic medicines efficacy. But there’s another step. Hahnemann would beat the dilution on a book 100 times between dilutions – he called this process ‘successions’. It’s believed that the successions imparted a memory of the substance into the water molecules of each dilution, giving the final solution the power of the original substance, without any side effects of its toxin. Because of this intelligence infused into the medicine, the premise is that if the diagnosis is correct, the body will use the medicine to assist in healing, if it is incorrect, no harm will be done. This speaks to the Hippocratic Oath ‘first do no harm’. Homeopathic remedies stimulate the body to resist negative toxins and in doing so, heal itself. EMBRACING MODERN MEDICINE While the principles of homeopathy differ greatly from modern medicine, it doesn’t reject all modern methodologies. Certainly, homeopaths don’t claim to be able to fix a broken leg with remedies; however, in support of surgery or similar to fix such a problem, a homeopath will prescribe remedies that will assist the body in healing and also strengthening the afflicted area. It can be used in conjunction with modern interventions. Having said that, however, it

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is recommended to ease off any chemicals that may be affecting your body’s natural healing plan, before being able to fully reap the benefits of a homeopath’s prescription for you.

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HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES STIMULATE THE BODY TO RESIST NEGATIVE TOXINS AND THEREBY HEAL ITSELF.

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Where modern medicine has failed, often homeopathy has succeeded – most chronic complaints such as IBS, psoriasis, eczema, hay fever and allergies can be controlled and even eliminated with homeopathic treatment. Additionally, homeopathy is also effective in treating childhood diseases like chicken pox and measles. In fact, homeopathy’s first major success was during the European cholera outbreaks in the nineteenth century.

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DIY While a homeopath will treat the person as opposed to the disease, there are still homeopathic remedies that are common to all and are effective for certain maladies. There are numerous products on the market that offer homeopathic remedies for anything from migraine, hair loss and bone pain to ADD, anxiety and food poisoning. YOUR BODY KNOWS The key to good health is being in tune with your body – it knows what it needs. Homeopathy helps your body to heal itself and a homeopath is trained to assist you in really listening to what your body needs, from a physical, mental and emotional perspective. It’s a whole health system that doesn’t offer ‘band-aid’ remedies, but instead offers you a way of living fully healthily.

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Unfortunately the modern world dictates that everything must be done quickly – we’re living in an instant gratification culture. But just as a good wine needs time to come into its own, your health needs the right amount of time to heal itself and be at its optimum. Homeopathy doesn’t offer quick cures [although symptoms are often relieved quite quickly], so it’s important to remember to take the time to allow your body to find its way to full health.

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NATURAL BIRTH CONTROL

In control or under control? WHILE THE BIRTH CONTROL PILL WAS LAUDED FOR ITS IMPACT ON THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMEN IN THE EARLY 60’S, IN SOME CIRCLES IT’S NOW SLAMMED FOR BEING A CANCER-INDUCING BLIGHT ON THE WORLD

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Most modern inventions or developments are geared towards making life better or more efficient. The development of the contraceptive pill certainly seems to have opened up a whole new world for women. With the birth control pill, the fear of having a child out of wedlock instantly evaporated, giving women the opportunity to protect themselves from the fate of being left pregnant and alone, and able to enjoy an unprecedented sexual freedom. But at what cost? Over 40 years later, the scientific community is producing more and more data about the link between breast cancer and the contraceptive pill. The understanding of hormonal needs in women has now been fully explored, as well as the effects of too little or too much of one or the other. •

The Imperial Cancer Research Fund in Oxford, England conducted a 4 year study on the Pill on over 150 000 women. Their results showed that all users faced an increased risk of breast cancer, including up to 10 years after stopping the usage of the Pill

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The Netherlands Cancer Institute carried out a large study that showed that girls who began taking the Pill before 20 yrs of age, faced an increased risk of breast cancer that was 3 ½ times more than those girls who hadn’t taken the Pill

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The same study showed that women over 36 who had used the Pill for less than four years had a 40% increased risk of getting breast cancer

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97% of women under 36 yrs who had being diagnosed with breast cancer had been on the Pill at some stage

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It’s also now believed that the contraceptive pill can have a negative effect on your healthy gut bacteria and that this can negatively affect your children.

The studies and statistics are startling to say the least, however, the hormonal input of the pill certainly helped millions of women with problems other than contraception. From easing acne and menstrual pain or mood swings, to keeping cystic fibrosis in check, the pill has certainly changed many lives. Additionally, the pill has allowed women to delay childrearing to pursue

careers, all of which has made taking the pill almost a no-brainer for young women. The belief that birth control pills are safe comes from more than 40 years of continuous brainwashing by the pharmaceutical industry to both physicians and the public. We are victims of misinformation and dangerous practices – Dr. Erika Schwartz

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PRACTICING NATURAL BIRTH CONTROL AND BEING RECEPTIVE TO THE DAILY CHANGES THE BODY EXPERIENCES IS AN EXCELLENT WAY OF GETTING MORE IN TUNE WITH YOUR BODY.

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A NATURAL RHYTHM While many proponents will wax lyrical about the contraceptive pill and its myriad advantages, what women really want is a natural solution that doesn’t put their life in danger. So just how do you get the advantages of being in charge of your menstrual cycle and childbearing, without the danger posed by contraceptive pills? Well, one of the most important things you can do for your health is listening to your body. It’s a finely designed machine that knows exactly what’s needed when. Living a more natural life, as free from synthetic and modified foods and chemicals as possible helps you to hear your body. A woman’s monthly cycle is possibly one of the easiest things to hear. Natural Family Planning [NFP] is one of the catch-all phrases for doing just that, listening to your body and observing the signs that tell you where you are in your monthly cycle. Fertility Awareness Management is another term you’re likely to hear. Not having sex during the high fertility period is the most natural birth control. It’s also the best way to plan for pregnancy. There are various methods under the NFP banner; however the basics are as follows: There are two observations you’ll need to make; basal body temperature and mucus.

INTRODUCING AFRICAN FOREST MEDICINALS’ RANGE OF LONGEVITY & IMMUNE-BOOSTING WILD-HARVESTED TINCTURES All of our products contain wild-harvested mushrooms and herbs. Wild-grown mushrooms/herbs are superior to cultivated ones in a variety of ways: • They have developed more potent chemical defences against predators and it is these chemicals that form the protective “medicines” that are so beneficial to us. • They are more highly mineralised than cultivated herbs as they grow in pristine, wild nature, with its highly mineralised soils. • They have absorbed all of the wild energies of its environment, which in turn are passed on to us and help to keep us more closely connected to our own wilder, more natural state of being.

Possible Benefits: Wild Red Reishi - immune-modulator, anti-cancer, anti-aging/longevity, anti-stress/calming, liver tonic/detoxifier Turkey Tail - potent anti-antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-cancer, immune-modulating, energy-boosting Passion Flower - hormone-balancing, counters “estrogen dominance”, mood-enhancing Our medicinal mushroom tinctures are “dual” hot water and alcohol extracts. This means that the active ingredients are actually extracted from the hard, chitin-walled cells of the mushrooms, making them bioavailable to the body. This is a vital process, as without this the active ingredients (polysaccharides and triterpenes) cannot be absorbed and used by the body. Non-extracted, powdered mushroom material does not give you the same benefits.

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hours. Science has shown that the active principle, called Lithospermic Acid (LA), in low concentration acts specifically on the pituitary gland, suppressing the production of gonadotropins (hormones which stimulate the sex glands) and certain pituitary hormones.

With basal body temperature, you’ll need to take your temperature at the same time every morning, before you get out of bed; your basal body temperature is based on your unique circadian rhythms, which are affected by hormonal changes as you wake up. TIP: Use a thermometer specifically designed for basal body temperature, it’s more sensitive and therefore more accurate. Cervical mucus can be observed every time you visit the bathroom. The ‘feel’ and ‘look’ are both important: if the mucus is wet or lubricative and looks clear or stretchy [think raw egg-white], then you’re fertile. If it’s tackier, you’re less fertile.

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Jack in the Pulpit Root. Less powerful than stoneseed, this root is used to prevent conception for up to a week by mixing a teaspoon of the powdered root in half a cup of cold water.

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Thistles. The Quinault Indians used thistles to induce temporary sterility by placing the entire plant in boiling water. The very bitter, strong tasting liquid was then consumed.

Most NFP proponents don’t encourage risking condoms or other barriers during your fertile time, but it’s completely up to you. MOTHER NATURE Something that’s often side-stepped in modern medicine is Mother Nature. The earth has everything humans need in order to live and heal. It’s interesting to note some of the ancient methods used for birth control. Kindly note the following list is not a recommendation and if exploring herbal or natural birth control options kindly consult a natural health practitioner for advice. •

Stoneseed Root. American Indians, specifically the Dakota tribe, were known to use this herb by infusing the root in cold water for several

DID YOU KNOW? Ancient Egyptians practised birth control and some of the earliest documented descriptions of their methods include the use of honey, acacia leaves and lint placed in the vagina to block sperm.

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•

Wild Carrot Seed (Queen Anne’s Lace). This was specifically used as a morning after prevention. It’s oily and strong tasting – the advice was to take a teaspoon of carrot seeds immediately after sex and continue for seven days.

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Smartweed Leaves. A common weed that grows all over the world, smartweed contains the substances rutin, quercitin and gallic acid all of which are supposed to interfere with the initiation of pregnancy.

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Rutin. This is available in tablet form. A minimum of 500 mg is recommended daily for several days before and following ovulation. It can be used as a morning after option, taken every day after sex until menstruation starts.

TAKE CONTROL While the pill is still prescribed to millions of women around the world, it’s giving woman illusory control of their lives. Yes it’s convenient to be able to time your menstruation down to the minute and even manipulate when your period begins so you can wear a bikini or white dress for some occasion. But, once again, at what cost? Are you truly in control of what happens to your body? You can be – simply by being more aware of what your body is saying and what the implications are to you if you do decide to opt for a hormonal solution. Control is about having choices and making informed decisions. If you are on the pill and want to continue taking it, research its negative effects and do what you can to balance the damage. If you want to go off the pill, learn how to engage the positive effects through nature. It’s entirely possible to live a healthy and natural life, even in today’s frenetic and ever-evolving world. Thank you to Dr Janey for supplying some of the research for this article. Dr Janey is an author, speaker and specialises in a natural approach to cancer. Visit www.drjaney.com

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PATH OF THE YONI Okay, right from the start I’m just going to say it out loud. VAGINA. There you go. It’s not unusual for me to wonder how readers will react to an article about the vagina. There’s a kind of taboo that most people grow up with when it comes to the sexual organs or speaking about sexuality. The ‘taboo’ resonates from society and has a certain stigma. But in effect, the vagina is an amazing versatile muscular tube with some incredible functions and deserves to be not only spoken about but celebrated too. A group of women are making it easier by introducing an ancient practice from the East that exercises the pelvic muscles and adds a dose of sensuality and pleasure to the mix. It’s a practice that involves using an egg shaped piece of jade placed in the vagina as a point of awareness to perform exercises that increase familiarity and knowledge of the muscles and contractions.

Most of us have heard of Kegel exercises where we’re told to contract and release the muscles you’re familiar with when you need to hold in a pee. The benefits are usually described in a rather unglamorous way and cover things like preventing incontinence or urinary leakage. The jade egg has similar benefits but the focus is more beautifully placed on sensuality and sacred attention. It’s an ancient Taoist tradition with centuries of practice behind it. It’s also a practice that very often assists women in a journey of healing, and a way to be more sensually receptive and spiritually connected. It’s sometimes called the path of the yoni, which is a Sanskrit word for vagina or womb but has symbolic connotations with creation and regeneration. Oh, and as far as the jade egg practice goes, did I mention increased orgasmic experience, easier childbirth and a pathway to retaining youth?

For more information visit www.yonieggs.co.za.

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NATURAL

FERTILITY by Kirsten Alexander

BEING IN TUNE WITH OUR BODIES, FOLLOWING THE MOON AND NOTICING DAILY BODY CHANGES CAN DETERMINE OUR FERTILITY DAYS. HERE’S HOW TO DO IT.

did you know? Women are born with between one and two million immature eggs in their ovaries? Most of these follicles die as women grow up, and only about 400 ever mature.

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GO WITH THE FLOW For women trying to get pregnant, there’s probably nothing more stress-inducing on the planet than the failure to do so. If you want to optimise your fertility, taking better care of your body is a good first step; but what else can you do to improve your odds of having a baby? There are a number of factors that impact on fertility and your chance of having a healthy pregnancy and baby. Attention to the moon, your lifestyle and changes in your body can improve fertility and your chance of having a healthy child.

YOUR FERTILE WINDOW Knowing when you are most fertile and making sure you have sex during the right time can improve your chance of getting pregnant. The best time to try and conceive is during the ‘fertile window’ of the menstrual cycle; this is different for different women. Pregnancy is technically only possible during the five days before ovulation, through to the day of ovulation. These six days are the ‘fertile window’ in a woman’s cycle, and reflect the lifespan of sperm (5 days) and the lifespan of the ovum

(24 hours). The probability of pregnancy rises steadily until the two days before and including the day of ovulation. At the end of the ‘fertile window’, the probability of pregnancy declines rapidly and by 1224 hours after she ovulates, a woman is no longer able to get pregnant during that cycle. Knowing when ovulation happens is critical when you want to get pregnant because the window of opportunity to conceive is fairly small every month. If all this seems too complicated, an alternative is to have sex every two to three days. That way all bases are covered without getting too technical about when the chance of conceiving is greatest. Keeping a menstrual calendar can be helpful for most women, even those not thinking about pregnancy. The goal of keeping track of your periods is to determine the length of the menstrual cycle and extrapolate the probable timing of ovulation. There are many tools available to help you in keeping a menstrual calendar. A quick Google search will reveal countless online calculators and mobile apps you can use. Alternatively, you can go with less technologically advanced methods, like marking a calendar on the first day of your period, or wearing a bracelet with beads that you can move according to where you are in your cycle. Though met with scientific scepticism, some studies have shown that peak rates of conception and ovulation appear to occur at the full moon or the day before. By nature, women are lunar. Is it coincidence the lengths of our menstrual cycles are synced up with the waxing and waning of the moon? If your menstrual cycle is a regular 28 days, you’ll likely sync up with the moon’s cycle and menstruate around the new moon, and ovulate around the full moon. The idea is, if a woman’s hormonal cycle is in sync with the moon, the time between the new moon and the full moon is when oestrogen increases, ultimately culminating in ovulation at the full moon. While your body may not already be in harmony with the moon, there are particular things to keep in mind, and practices that can help regulate your cycle. REGULATING CYCLES When nutrition and sleep levels are chronically low, your body will prioritise survival over reproduction. For improved hormonal function, the goal should be to

keep blood sugar as steady as possible. A ‘real food’ diet made primarily from whole foods is ideal, with limited amounts of highly refined grains and sugars. It’s a great idea to include high-quality protein at every meal and snack, and plant foods like vegetables and fruit should make up the bulk volume of the diet. Healthy fats should be consumed at each meal as well.

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WHEN NUTRITION AND SLEEP LEVELS ARE CHRONICALLY LOW, YOUR BODY WILL PRIORITISE SURVIVAL OVER REPRODUCTION

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Calorie intake can be an even greater predictor of menstrual cycle function than a woman’s body fat percentage. Science has shown the conscious restriction of calorie intake in an effort to achieve or maintain a certain body weight is a risk factor for menstrual cycle disturbances. You can use a calculator to estimate your daily calorie needs based on your current activity levels. You may be surprised to find that you’re eating much less than your body needs, which could be negatively affecting your menstrual function. On top of adequate calorie intake, for many women, a moderate carbohydrate intake is important for regular menstrual function. A range of 20 to 50 percent of calories from carbs is ideal for improving fertility, depending on your primary underlying issue. The ideal body fat percentage for recovering menstrual function varies among individuals. Most health professionals agree that the level of ‘essential’ body fat in women is about 12 percent, so if you are lower than that, you absolutely need to gain fat to recover normal body functioning. Exercise is important for fertility, and the trick is to develop a workout schedule that allows for enough, but not too much, movement. Intense exercisers often have very low body fat, which can diminish hormone levels and prevent the uterus from building up a lining. Avoid exercise styles that make you anxious or overly stressed emotionally, which could exacerbate the physical stress of training.

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Your fitness activities should be enjoyable and make you feel better about yourself when you leave. It’s no secret that stress impacts your menstrual cycle and your chances of falling pregnant. While occasional stress might throw off a single cycle, chronic stress actually changes your hormonal profile and can have a long-term impact on menstrual function. Adding regular stress management techniques to your daily routine is a crucial part of regulating your menstrual cycle. Regular meditation and yoga are two of the easier mind–body practices that can get you feeling better fast. Having regular bowel movements and a healthy digestive system is crucial to good hormonal function. There’s a twoway street between hormonal balance and gut function. To rebalance your gut flora, increase your consumption of fermented foods, as well as vegetables of all kinds. Both starchy and non-starchy veggies contain components that help feed beneficial gut flora, and fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, and kombucha provide live gut bugs that can help boost the diversity of your gut flora. Be sure to work with a professional if you need extra help normalising your digestive system. Sleep and sleep disturbances are increasingly recognised as determinants of menstrual function. The underlying cause for this is the disruption of the circadian rhythms, which drive the cyclical nature of hormone release and are primarily disrupted by inappropriate light and dark signals. To get your circadian rhythms on a normal pattern, avoid bright and artificial light at night and get plenty of sunshine during the day. Set a regular sleep schedule and go to sleep well before midnight. Our modern environment is full of chemical toxins; in our food, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and in cosmetics and hygiene products we put on our bodies. Many of these chemicals have the ability to affect our hormones. While we can’t completely avoid these hormone-damaging toxins, we can significantly reduce our exposure to them. Being conscious of the cosmetics, products and food we choose will go a long way in helping to avoid unwanted toxins.

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ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS TO AVOID 1. Pesticides: found on non-organic fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy and unfiltered tap water 2. Formaldehyde: found in air fresheners, deodorants, floor polish, upholstery cleaners 3. Bisphenols: found in plastic containers and can leach into food and water. 4. Organic solvents: petroleum based liquids found in household products, electronics, car repair, health care, photography, agriculture, printing, construction and cosmetics and many more. 5. Dry-cleaning chemicals 6. Paint fumes Occasional exposure to one or the other toxic chemical is not of concern. What is of concern is accumulation of these chemicals over a long period.

BE NATURALLY YOU Learning about yourself and the way your body works will go a long way in alleviating unnecessary stress during this important time. You are genetically engineered to bring life into the world so get in touch with your body, your flow of energy and your environment in preparation. As women, we must honour our yin nature in order to ‘go with the flow’ — in body, mind and spirit.

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did you know? Author and neurobiologist Michael Pollan explains that plants have all the same senses as humans, plus more. They not only hear and see, for example, but they can sense gravity, the presence of water, and even feel when an obstruction is in the way before coming into contact with it, thus shifting the direction of their roots in order to avoid obstacles.

PLANTING FEELINGS WE NEED TO BREATHE, WE NEED TO EAT, WE NEED SHELTER, AND WE SOMETIMES NEED MEDICINE. IT’S TRUE THAT PLANTS ARE IRREPLACEABLE IN RELATION TO OUR MOST BASIC NEEDS. BUT WHAT ABOUT OUR NEED FOR CONNECTION, FOR BELONGING, FOR A SENSE OF PURPOSE AND PLACE IN THE WORLD? ARE PLANTS REALLY ABLE TO HELP US WITH THESE? Contrary to what many of us learn as children, plants are so much more than mere carbon dioxide recycling, foodproducing means to an end. They have been shown in various studies around the world to help improve concentration and memory, reduce stress-related depression, and even accelerate the healing process when placed in a hospital or recovery room. But these still fall within the realm of the utilitarian. Have you ever thought of seeing a plant as an equal - as just another manifestation within the same intricately connected divine network? Plants can make us think both practically and philosophically at once. We can see them both as a source of food and as a key

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to appreciating the present, at the same time. But can we relate to them beyond what they may offer us in terms of our own way of thinking? Can we consider the fact that they might be considering us? Understandably, it is easier to relate to someone or something that reacts to us. And here’s where it gets really interesting. Scientists have proven that plants react to everything down to the clothes we wear. That’s right - wearing blue can change the way a plant grows, as phototropism (the process by which plants grow towards light) can only be influenced by blue light. Wearing red, on the other hand, can influence a plant’s timekeeping, as red light affects photoperiodism, which governs its sensitivity to the time of year. We may not

notice the changes in a plant that result from our choice of clothing, but the knowledge that they are reacting to us can surely change the way we think about them. Plants are in fact rich in sensation. They are responding to the stimulation of their surrounding world every moment of their lives. They send messages to each other about overcrowding or a threatened attack by a new pest; their sophisticated senses can detect the lightest touch (better than the sensitivity of human fingertips); and they are all said to have a sense of vision. Plants can sense, learn, and remember. If you intuitively talk or play music to your plants, you’ve been closer to the truth than you may realise. Plants have ways

of taking all the sensory data they gather in their lives, integrating it, and then behaving in appropriate ways in response. Neurobiologists have played a recording of a caterpillar munching on a leaf to plants, and they have secreted defensive chemicals in response. They are somehow hearing. How plants sense and react is still largely unknown. They don’t have nerve cells like humans, but they do have a system for sending electrical signals, and they even produce neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and other chemicals the human brain uses to send signals. Animal biologist Monica Gagliano has presented research that suggests that the mimosa pudica plant can even learn from experience. The mimosa plant, which looks like a fern, collapses its leaves temporarily when it is disturbed. So Gagliano set up a contraption that would drop the mimosa plant, without hurting it. When the plant dropped, as expected, its leaves collapsed. She kept dropping the plants every five to six seconds. After five or six drops, the plants would stop responding, as if they’d learned to tune out the stimulus as irrelevant. To make sure that the plant wasn’t just becoming worn out from all the dropping, Gagliano took the plants that had stopped responding to the drops and shook them instead. They would continue to collapse. So they had made the distinction that dropping was a signal they could safely ignore. Gagliano went on to retest them every week for four weeks and, for a month, they continued to remember their lesson.

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While there are many critics with alternative theories for explaining the response of plants such as these, we can’t deny the fact that they have the ability to respond to 15 to 20 environmental variables. We may not feel comfortable calling this learning, intelligence, or even consciousness, but it is sensing. Some plant neurobiologists believe that plants are conscious – not selfconscious, but conscious of where they are in space, and continually reacting in accordance. What all this helps us to see is that the line between plants and humans might be more blurred than we are oft led to believe. Plants may have more to teach us than we realise - like how to process information without a ‘central command post’ like a brain. While the organic metaphor that once served to make sense of the world has since been replaced by more mechanical and linear images, the astounding relationship between plant and human, plant and planet, and thus human and planet, has slowly started to resurface in popular consciousness. Let us cultivate this intimacy by engaging fully with the plants, revelling in their sensuality and connecting to the ancestor and archetype of the medicine woman, the widwife and the warrior, consulting with the plants for help with everything from childbirth to death. As women and men alike, at the core of the experience of opening our awareness to the rich lives of plants is essentially the experience of the awe of connecting to something larger than ourselves, and realising that we are all just (surprisingly similar) cells within an intricate and enormous matrix of creation.

Women have traditionally been more sensitive to the subtle teachings from nature. We have long been associated with nature, even in our language itself (Mother Earth; a virgin forest, one as yet untouched by man). Before the industrialised world and our disconnection to the plants that share our home, the metaphor that explained the self, society and the cosmos at large was the image of the organism. Most people were connected with the earth in their daily lives, as peasants living a subsistence existence. The earth was seen as female, and with two faces: both the passive, nurturing mother; and the wild and uncontrollable spirit. The earth - the giver and supporter of life - was symbolised by woman. It was seen to be sensitive and alive then already, although the science has only recently started to support this. Ecofeminism today seeks to understand the interconnected roots of all domination, both of women and of nature, and is inspired and informed by the intimate connection between the two.

Starke Ayres Garden Centre supply plants, gardening products and landscaping services. They have a range of flowers and seed, and expert advice to help you with growing.

WIN WIN WIN

Both the Rosebank and West Coast branch of Starke Ayres Garden Centre will be issuing a prize consisting of a R250 gift voucher. All you have to do is attach your purchase slip with your name, phone number and email address into the instore competition box. Note that this applies to all purchases over R150 and is valid for the month of August 2016. Starke Ayres Garden Centre will contact the winner telephonically end of August 2016.

Starke Ayres Rosebank, 21 Liesbeek Parkway, Rosebank, Cape Town Tel: 021 685 4120 Starke Ayres West Coast Garden Centre, West Coast Village Shopping Centre, Sunningdale, Cape Town Tel: 021 554 8450

WIN 49

nurture

FLOWERS THAT

HEAL EMOTIONS IF WE SEE THE EARTH AS THE BODY; THE SKY THE GREAT SPIRIT; ROCKS AKIN TO THE MIND; THEN FLOWERS EQUATE TO THE EMOTIONAL OR FEELING PLANE OF THE ECOSPHERE.

did you know?

To understand the process that unfolds in the blossoming of a flower is to understand the entire evolution of the universe. For this process of flowering, in which the leafy plant reaches to create something that is unlike itself, requires it to reach into a higher plane, the astral world, for help. When that help is bestowed, the flowering stage proceeds and a glow of astral light hovers around the flowers. It is our innate response to this astral glow that causes us to use flowers at births, weddings, celebrations, and deaths. For we humans are always like the leafy plant reaching above ourselves for the guidance and assistance to move into our flowering stage. Bobby Matherne researcher at the Doyletics Foundation

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There’s no one that has deeply inhaled the fragrance of a flower and not felt calm, uplifted or even elated. Flowers have the power to comfort, to inspire, instill courage and shift or alter any kind of emotion. There’s a magical alphabet of healing deeply embedded in the essence of a flower. It’s no wonder that flowers are used in healing formulations. Many people have tuned into the language of flowers and received specific details of how they heal.

Clematis: For those who find their lives unhappy and withdraw into fantasy worlds. They are ungrounded and indifferent to the details of everyday life. Teaches one to establish a bridge between the physical world and the world of ideas and may foster great creativity. Is also used to bring clarity and alertness to the present moment.

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THE GARDEN IS WHERE YOU TAKE THE TIME IN YOUR LIFE TO TUNE IN AND LISTEN. IT JUST TAKES BEING STILL LONG ENOUGH, OPENING YOUR HEART, OPENING YOUR SPIRIT UP TO WHAT THE PLANTS HAVE TO TELL YOU.

In the Western world Dr Edward Bach is probably the most well known. His range of 38 Original Flower Remedies was developed to, ‘help mankind achieve joy and happiness’. And they are specifically aimed at emotions. Dr. Edward Bach said that, ‘Disease of the body itself is nothing but the result of the disharmony between soul and mind. Remove the disharmony, and we regain harmony between soul and mind, and the body is once more perfect in all its parts.’ Flower essences cover areas that standard medicine doesn’t usually include. When you read through some of the conditions the flower remedies address you realize how subtle, and how understanding and empathic flowers are. Here are a few examples: Wild Oat: Helps when you are at a crossroad in life and are uncertain as to which direction to choose.

Sweet Chestnut: Helps in moments when anguish is too great and seems to be unbearable. Your mind or body feels as if it has tolerated the uttermost limit of its endurance. It feels as there is nothing but destruction and annihilation left to face. Flowers are inextricably linked to the psyche of human beings. Studies have shown repeatedly just how deep the emotional connection is between human beings and flowers. If you have fear, uncertainty, lack interest, feel lonely, oversensitive, despondent or any number of different emotions, flower remedies, are an excellent route to go.

GABRIEL HOWEARTH

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Holly: Helps when you suffer from angry thoughts such as jealousy, envy, revenge and/or suspicion. Vervain: For strong-willed people who hold strong views. This person puts unnecessary effort into everything they undertake, feeling that the mind races ahead of events. They may suffer from lack of sleep due to an overactive mind.

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The cause of all our troubles is self and separateness and this vanishes as soon as Love and the great knowledge of Unity become part of our natures.

heads and natural spring water using either the sun or the boiling Method. The flowers are then removed from the potentised water which is then filtered and mixed with an equal part of 40% proof brandy, this makes the Mother Tincture. The brandy acts purely as a preservative for the essence and is non-active ingredient. Separate stock bottles have the Mother Tincture added to 27% of grape alcohol.

Dr Edward Bach

The Bach Flower essences are still made in the same way as they were in 1930 when Dr Bach developed them. Initially, a Mother Tincture is prepared from plant material, flower

Bach flower essences are available from leading health outlets. There is also a range of South African Flower Essences available from safloweressences.co.za.

RESCUE REMEDY One of the most famous flower essences is the Rescue Remedy formula which is a blend of 5 different essences. Many people keep a bottle on hand for situations that include anything from stage fright to trauma, nervousness, needing courage or to take just before a performance, a speech or confrontation. It is said to have an immediate effect and is excellent in a crisis. Because of the popularity of this essence, many other formulators have jumped on the bandwagon and be aware you may come across other homeopathic brands called Rescue Remedy. Dr Bachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one is produced according to his original procedure, process and insight made from flower essences. Bach Rescue Remedy has become a household staple and is the biggest selling natural stress remedy in the US and UK.

HANAMI is a Japanese term that describes the custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers. In Japan in Tokyo a flower essence containing yarrow has become incredibly popular amongst the city dwellers to protect them against the high stress of the crowded cities. The brand YES (Yarrow Environmental Solution) is the most popular. With a population in Tokyo of more than ten million people, individuals are constantly exposed to the stresses of human relationships and environmental pollution. Flower essence practitioner Mitose Komura says the YES formula provides strong protection while in an overcrowded area. It protects from the low-level frequencies emanating from other human energy fields and helps people not to separate from their core selves even under severe stress.

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YOUNGER LOOKING SKIN HONOUR YOURSELF BY LOOKING AFTER YOUR WHOLE BODY, NOT JUST TO LOOK GOOD, BUT TO FEEL GOOD AND LIVE A LONGER, HAPPIER LIFE. FOOD, LIFESTYLE AND BEHAVIOUR HAVE AN EFFECT ON WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE; THE SAYING ‘YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT’ CERTAINLY HAS A RING OF TRUTH TO IT.

INSIDE OUT

• •

The first place to start the anti-ageing process is on the inside. The effect your diet has on your skin isn’t just about gaining or losing weight. Eating too much sugar or high-glycemic food ultimately leads to a process in which sugar molecules in the blood bond to proteins and DNA. Over time this process affects collagen proteins, changing their shape, flexibility, elasticity, and function. The result is premature ageing and additional inflammation. Integrate the following in your diet for fantastic antioxidant power:

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AGEING SKIN ISN’T CHRONOLOGICAL, IT’S BIOLOGICAL AND YOU CAN DELAY OR EVEN REVERSE THE PROCESS WITH NATURAL APPROACH THAT INCLUDES OPTIMAL DIET, LIFESTYLE AND PRODUCT CHOICES.

“ DID YOU KNOW?

To reduce age spots, mix lavender oil with frankincense essential oil and put it on your skin first thing in the morning after your shower, and just before bed.

helping you live life well

•

• • •

•

Vitamin C (found in plant-based foods) Vitamin E, specifically high-potency tocotrienols Coenzyme Q-10 (or ubiquinol, found naturally in our cells but decreases after age 20) Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA, available from both plant and animal sources) Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE, found in fish) Carotenoids (phytonutrients found in the red, yellow, and orange flesh of plant leaves, flowers and fruits) Bioflavonoids (good sources include green tea, soy isoflavones, red wine, and other plant-derived foods)

One of the easiest keys to health is hydration – and it’s great for your skin. Water is one of the most important beauty ingredients. Anxiety and stress alone cause you to dehydrate, so make sure you keep this life-giving liquid close by.

OUTSIDE IN Of course there’s a way to help your skin along from the outside. There are a few great oils that help ageing skin, especially skin that’s dry from the effects of stress, sun damage and dehydration.

•

Jojoba Oil resembles sebum (the oily substance secreted by your sebaceous glands to keep skin and hair moisturised) and is great for dry, ageing skin, as well as sunburn, chapped skin and psoriasis. It’s filled with micro-elements like zinc, copper, silicon, iodine, chromium, vitamin E and B

•

Grape-seed Oil is light and odourless, and although it has a drying effect, it makes a great base for aromatherapy oil mixes. It’s an antioxidant and loaded with flavonoids which play a role in enhancing collagen and maintaining elastin

•

Frankincense essential oil can be used to help reduce the appearance of large pores and wrinkles. Use this oil anywhere your skin becomes saggy, including your abdomen, jowls, or under your eyes. Mix six drops of oil to one ounce of unscented oil such as jojoba and apply it directly to the skin. Frankincense can strengthen skin and improve tone, elasticity, defence mechanisms against bacteria or blemishes, and appearance as someone ages.

•

Lavender oil helps your body produce three powerful antioxidants; glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase. If you mix lavender oil with aloe vera or coconut oil, it’ll have a major effect on your skin, mostly due to lavender’s antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics.

BEHAVE YOURSELF Your lifestyle has a huge effect on your skin’s appearance. Of course exercise is important for a healthy body and mind, but balance is also important. Remember that too much exercise can also have an ageing effect on your skin by stressing your body and causing dehydration and inflammation. Too many late nights, with a bit more alcohol than necessary also contributes to the effects of ageing. Get enough good rest [try sleeping in a totally darkened room for at least two nights a week for a deeper and more intense sleep], and if you are indulging, remember to hydrate as well.

TIPS FOR QUICK YOUTH •

Facial yoga – numerous celebs swear by this type of yoga, saying it’s better than botox by far. Created by New Yorkbased yoga teacher, Annelise Hagen, it’s the latest tool in combating wrinkles. Try the following exercises, daily: puff out your cheeks and transfer air from cheek to cheek until you’re out of breath – repeat three times; widen your eyes without wrinkling your forehead and focus on the horizon for 10 seconds – repeat four times.

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Upside down – various different modalities advocate inversion as a great way to increase blood flow to your head, allowing a flow of oxygenated blood to the brain, ears, eyes and face, which can improve the health and look of your skin and muscles by stimulating your lymphatic system.

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Steamy – using crushed basil leaves, which are antibacterial and fresh lemon juice in a large bowl of boiling water, hold your face about 30cm above the bowl and cover your head with a towel to trap the steam. This will give your skin a moisture boost and plump out wrinkles.

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WATER IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT BEAUTY INGREDIENTS.

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move

did you know?

Belly dancing is low impact and easy on the joints, making it restorative and rehabilitating as well. It is also a good form of exercise for pregnant and post pregnant women.

DANCING

FROM THE WOMB BELLY DANCING IS THE PERFECT EXERCISE TO CELEBRATE WOMEN’S MONTH. WE SPEAK TO BELLY DANCE TEACHER MARISSA CUENOUD ABOUT DANCING FROM YOUR WOMB. Bellydancing is not just a dance style. It is an expression of culture and tradition, passed down through families for centuries. It was in fact originally never meant to be a form of ‘entertainment’, but rather a style of dance accessible to all women to enjoy. Many theories cloud the origins of belly dancing. From my research, belly dance originated in the Middle East, North Africa and Mediterranean, and spread through

helping you live life well

the migration of itinerant tribes. Tribes that borrowed traditional dances from the places they passed, spreading and cross-pollinating traditional styles. Perhaps they were also the first to ‘perform’ belly dance for entertainment, rather than social practice. More research sees belly dance performed in sacred ceremonies amongst women, particularly around childbirth and fertility rituals.

Belly dance became popular in the West in the 1800s, and many Western painters, poets and entertainers started depicting and mimicking this ‘exotic’ style. Tribal Fusion, the style I teach and perform, originated in San Francisco in the 1980s, evolving as a dance form with a greater awareness of the folkloric and original roots of belly dance. The dance practiced in the West had moved away from its Middle Eastern roots and Tribal Fusion included more of the original

language of the style and some modern and contemporary elements. The result is a sensuous synthesis of ancient and modern dance techniques, exotic costuming and eclectic music – culminating in a wondrous and rich dance form. It embraces new ideas while remaining rooted in its history.

layering, torso isolations, shimmies. We also play with learning short combinations and choreographies, dancing in groups, improvised dancing and working with rhythm and finger cymbals.

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At the essence of belly dance is a desire to be connected to feminine expression. It affords each of us the opportunity to really explore our unique voice through a movement that, to me, surpasses personality and place and connects us to something far deeper and more universal. My own exploration of the dance form allows me to really unpack what it is to be divinely feminine. A lot of the movement and focus is around the stomach, hips and core. Dancing from this place lets you connect to your womb and your essential ‘femaleness,’ which is very liberating. Getting to know and accept your body is extremely empowering, especially with many unrealistic role models and stereotypes mirrored to women. The women I have met who have inspired me along this path have been no less than enchanting. There is a strong sense of community amongst those who dance together. Tribal Fusion, in particular, is backed by an amazing global community, and we stay connected by sharing information online and travelling to global workshops and festivals. Women of all backgrounds, ages and shapes come for lessons. There really is no one stereotypical type of belly dancer. I’ve taught students, doctors, mothers, grandmothers, waitresses, musicians, lawyers - you name it. Everyone attends for a different reason - some just to unwind from hectic corporate jobs, others for exercise and toning, and some for the social aspect or even performance skills. It’s a melting pot, and that’s what makes it so great – we’re all the same when we dance together. Classes usually include yoga and Pilatesbased warm-ups, stretches, conditioning and strengthening exercises. We focus on postural awareness and moving from our core, exploring our tummy muscles and learning how to isolate them. Dancing from a grounded and relaxed space is key. We learn belly dance vocabulary in our classes: hips, arm positions, spins,

TO DANCE IS TO BE OUT OF YOURSELF, LARGER, MORE POWERFUL, MORE BEAUTIFUL. THIS IS POWER, IT IS GLORY ON EARTH AND IT IS YOURS FOR THE TAKING. AGNES DE MILLE

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Besides the educational core of our school, we have a professional performance troupe that does corporate shows, small theatre shows and private events sometimes as far afield as Morocco and Seychelles. We’ve proudly performed at the GloCaf Awards Ceremony in Nigeria, on the fringe stage at the Paleo festival in Switzerland and various other shows. For practice we have haflas (Arabic for social gatherings) for our students, where they perform class dances and solos or their own choreographies to their dancing peers, friends and families.

Marissa Cuenoud is the owner of Soma Fusion Belly dance Company, a Cape Townbased school dedicated to the growth and development of each student’s unique creative voice through the vehicle of Tribal Fusion belly dance. It is her firm belief that dance is a universal language and cannot be exclusionary. All levels of experience, fitness, body shapes and ages are welcome to join this community of women celebrating their individuality and creativity through dance. For more information visit www.soma.co.za or contact marissa@soma.co.za.

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GETAWAY

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GUESTS STAYING AT BOSCHENDAL HAVE THE FREEDOM TO ROAM, PICK FRUIT FROM THE ORCHARDS, MEET THE FARMERS AND EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC FARM LIVING.

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did you know?

All farming on the estate is done sustainably with minimum negative impact on the natural environment. Farming practices include raising free-range animals to reduce food miles and contribute to soil productivity, the use of cover crops in the vineyards to enrich the soil, inhibit weed growth and preserve soil moisture, and water saving strategies such as conservation-efficient irrigation systems for vineyards and fruit trees. Boschendal has been awarded Conservation Champion status by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) which is an endorsement of all Boschendal’s efforts over the years to conserve biodiversity and to protect the special environment.

Off to the Winelands When driving into the Boschendal wine Estate you can tangibly feel the grandeur of a homestead that dates back to 1685. It almost feels like you should be arriving via ox-wagon. The sweeping driveway flanked by huge trees has a stately air that brings a wonderful feeling of tradition and the nostalgia of yesteryear. Remarkably, Boschendal is still a working farm. It’s filled with food producing elements, even in the parking area there are trees resplendent with oranges. There is an incredible organic fruit and vegetable garden directly in front of the restaurant with every type of herb imaginable. Alongside is a covered tunnel that has the most beautiful purple-green flowering kohlrabi. Wandering around the veg garden with imposing mountains as a backdrop is all you need to wipe away city angst. Boasting their industrious produce is a little bakery, a butchery, and grocer with home-made produce from their on-site endeavours. You can fill your basket with the purest, organic, home-grown in-season produce knowing that everything comes from the farm. There are numerous sleep-over options from the historical Herbert Baker Rhodes Cottage, the recently renovated Clarence

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Cottage, the Werf Cottages and further up, the Orchard Cottages. Rhodes Cottage is a South African National Heritage site and comes with a personal butler. We stayed at the Werf cottage, it was spacious and stylish, although still earthy, with a fully equipped kitchen, a wonderful fire place and everything you might need for a cozy weekend or a more extended stay. It had a balcony with a wonderful panoramic view of the mountains. There’s so much to do at Boschendal, you can laze for hours over breakfast or get going on one of the many hiking paths, go on a history tour or you can opt for wine tasting – they have some of the best award winning wines in the country. Family friendly activities include pony and horse rides, trout fishing and visiting the Boschendal pasture-raised chickens and cattle. Boschendal is between Stellenbosch and Franschoek, about a 40 minute drive from Cape Town. The farm cottages are ideal for foodie or wineland getaways and romantic weekends.

Book a mid-winter farm retreat special at one of the Boschendal Orchard Cottages, valid between 1 May and 30 September 2016: 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom at R1500 per night B&B for 2 adults and 2 children or 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms at R1900 per night B&B. Please use the Reference Bosch002 when booking. Call 021 870 4290 or email accommodation@boschendal. co.za for more information.

ON THE SHELF by Lara Potgieter

GET COSY WITH A BOOK THAT MIGHT JUST CHANGE YOUR LIFE being shy, and that being ‘quiet’ can often lead us to make our mark in the world in a profound way. The book is aimed primarily at a teenage audience, as it is often during this period that being ‘outgoing’ seems like the most admirable character trait (and when those of us who don’t always enjoy the boisterousness of it all often feel sub-par and sidelined). As an adult I gained a great deal of solace and perspective from the title too. Even today, viewing my quiet nature as a ‘hidden superpower’ can sometimes be a challenge. This is where Cain’s gentle guidance steps in helping people young and old to quietly adventure and shake the world up from our soft, still and often deeply authentic places of inner power.

Miracles Now l Gabrielle Bernstein Hay House Do you need a miracle? The renowned metaphysical text A Course in Miracles defines a miracle as, simply, a shift in perception. From this miracle all others arise. In Miracles Now, thought leader Gabrielle Bernstein offers no fewer than 108 quick and accessible tools to call in the miracles we need in our everyday lives. From mantras, mudras and meditation to advice on how to truly ‘keep it real’, this is a substantial toolkit for spiritual support. Learn to find peace in your pulse, live in a judgment-free zone, converse with the universe, and shift your energy in this powerful daily companion.

Baobabs of the World l Andry Petignat & Louise Jasper Struik Nature Most of us view the world’s largest succulent as both a symbol of Africa and an otherworldlyappearing natural phenomenon. This reference book allows a deeper glimpse into the life of the mighty baobab. While the more scientificallyinclined will enjoy the comprehensive outline of the striking tree’s distribution, classification and biogeography, I was drawn to the exploration of its cultural significance, its applications in the lives of those who live intimately alongside it, and the importance of its conservation. Jasper’s wonderful photography also inspires a deep reverence for the species that the words themselves would not have been able to capture.

Nourish l Amber Rose, Sadie Frost & Holly Davidson Kyle Books This inspiring book results from the collaboration of three wise and beautiful women who happen to be best friends: Amber Rose, Sadie Frost, and Holly Davidson. Rose shows readers that adapting what we eat can drastically alter how we feel about ourselves (and the world). Her recipes are deeply satisfying and packed with nutritional value. I loved the blackberry, rose and raw chocolate smoothie, the mint and orange blossom tea, the veg chilli, and the coconut and banana pancakes. Frost’s contribution covers the power of yoga, meditation and pranayama (breath work) and explains a series of simple rituals. Davidson gives suggestions on how to silence the inner naysayer and fall in love with exercise. Overall, the book is both gentle and deeply empowering.

Quiet Power l Susan Cain Penguin Life In Quiet Power, Susan Cain points out that being introverted doesn’t necessarily mean

The Fertility Awareness Workbook l Barbara Kass-Annese & Dr Hal Danzer Thorsons Publishing Group This highly educational little book requires a bit of time and effort into really getting to know your body and its reproductive system. Most of us think that we have some kind of understanding of our body’s various signs, and that we’d be able to take our cue from them when needed. But when taking family planning into our own hands, it’s useful to have a guide that helps us through the technical details involved. The Fertility Awareness Workbook is an anatomical overview of the reproductive organs, an explanation of the primary and secondary signs of fertility, a host of observational cues and charts, and a set of detailed guidelines for both avoiding and increasing the chances of pregnancy. SHOP THE BOOKS ONLINE OR AT AMAZON.COM

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Bowen Therapy Bowen Technique is a unique, non-invasive soft tissue therapy using a series of light, safe, yet dynamic moves on the muscles, ligaments and nerve bundles in speciﬁc areas. These moves stimulate energy in the body which allows the body‛s natural capacity to self-regulate and heal.

Some of the conditions that can be helped • • • • • • • • •

Back pain and sciatica Hip, knee, ankle and foot problems Neck and shoulder problems Groin pain, pelvic tilt and uneven leg length Carpal tunnel syndrome Sporting Injuries and performance enhancement TMJ problems Paediatric problems Stress and fatigue