Eating Naturally for Optimal Beauty

We've all heard the old adage, "You are what you eat." But what about the connection between your food and your face?

Most articles about nutrition focus on the role of your diet in maintaining optimum internal health and warding off disease. For example, many articles talk about how the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can fight free radical damage to your immune cells, your organs and your DNA.

Well guess what? The same phytochemicals, vitamins, nutrients and minerals that keep your insides in the pink are equally essential for clear skin, bright smiles, strong nails and clear eyes. If you want to look your absolute gorgeous best, keep these diet guidelines in mind:

* Antioxidants: Found in abundance in colorful fruits and vegetables, these nutrients help combat signs of aging caused by the oxidation - the rust, if you will, of our cells. Beauty foods that are potent sources of antioxidants include: pomegranates, prunes, concord grape juice, blueberries, blackberries, purple cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts, dried plums, kiwis, raspberries, strawberries, raw spinach, oranges, apples and watercress.

* Essential fatty acids: Certain polyunsaturated oils are called "essential" because they must be included in our diet. EFAs, like omega-3 and omega-6, may reduce inflammation that can clog skin and lead to wrinkles. Sources include seafood - such as salmon, sardines, trout and flounder - as well as almonds, walnuts and flaxseed.

* Avoid simple carbs: Some research suggests the insulin spike caused by simple carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta and sweets, may trigger a series of metabolic reactions that can lead to breakouts.

* Maximize water, moderate alcohol: Water, and lots of it, will help keep your skin hydrated, while alcohol in excess of one 4-ounce drink a day can dry it out. Also, some dermatologists say alcohol's dilation of fragile facial capillaries can cause and exacerbate rosacea.

* Healthy fat: While it's always important to minimize artery-clogging saturated fat, don't shy away from healthy monounsaturated fats, like olive oil and other liquid, plant-based oils that keep skin emulsified.

* Vitamin C: Make sure to also feed your face with vitamin C to help maintain collagen, the most important component of connective tissue contributing to the underlying foundation of your skin. The best sources of vitamin C includes citrus fruits and juices, broccoli, cauliflower, cantaloupe, strawberries, tomatoes, red peppers and green peas.

* Weight-loss bonus: Pound for pound, fruits and vegetables have fewer calories than other food groups. Plus, they have plenty of fiber, so they'll help you feel full. Such a fruit-and-vegetable-rich diet helps ward off cravings by ensuring the body gets the full spectrum of nutrients, minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals it needs to function.

Data from the National Weight Control Registry, which maintains records on more than 3,000 individuals who have had success keeping off a minimum of 30 pounds, suggests that the winning diet for long-term weight loss is a low-fat, complex-carb diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

This data was recently reinforced by an international study, conducted by Northwestern University, assessing the diets of more than 4,000 people in the United States, United Kingdom, Japan and China. The study found that, without exception, a diet high in complex carbohydrates, fiber and vegetable protein was associated with low body-mass index.

The bottom line is that there's nothing more beautiful than vibrant good health, and there's nothing healthier than a regime that includes plenty of exercise, rest, water, lean proteins, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables.

Jennifer Grossman is the director of the Dole Nutrition Institute. - NU

The History And Mystery of Cosmetics

The cosmetics craze continued throughout the centuries into the 1900's and began to see the earliest of the cosmetics industry being formed. Mrs. Henning's House of Cyclax in London sold many products that you can still buy today from world famous companies like Avon. Another beauty salon owner found herself expanding her products to meet the demands of her upper class clientele from a facial cream that protects women's skin from the sun to lipstick and face powder. Today, you can find a whole line of cosmetics from Helena Rubenstein.

As the years went on, the popularity of beauty salons continued to increase. In 1909, a salon called Selfridges began to sell cosmetics out in the open ver the counter. Women's attitudes began to change and confidence grew.  When the Russian ballet came to London, the influence of high art was apparent on many designers. A man named Paul Poiret was one of the first to come out with a much more vibrant and colorful look. It was also the first time that permanent cosmetics was seen. Women could tattoo their lipstick and eye shadow permanently on their faces.

During the 1930's the fashion of lipstick went to a darker shade with a variety of shades. Around the time of WW II, ingredients for cosmetics was at a severe shortage and women underwent a kind of make-down. This ended right when the war did and demand for cosmetics increased more than ever. Competitors began manufacturing a number of products to meet the demands of the female consumer.

Today's woman is the benefactor of all these years of trial and error with a virtually unlimited choice of products for any look they want to achieve. There are literally thousands of companies who have products in this now billion dollar yearly industry. Cosmetic products sell year round and even in times of recession.

So ladies, thank your ancestors and their concern for their own appearance for your own that you have today. There were probably days when they woke up and didn't really feel like going through the hassle of putting on their face either.

Spotlight on Feng Shui Jewelry by Explosion Luck

Photo courtesy of ExplosionLuck.com

 Feng Shui is an ancient practice that can help you attract love, prosperity, and happiness into your life. Most people in the Western world consider it to be a form of spiritual interior decorating.  But, actually, it is much more than that.  Did you know that Feng Shui isn't just for your home? There are many personal items that you can use in order to practice great Feng Shui for yourself as a person.

Feng Shui jewelry is popular within Feng Shui circles. In fact, Feng Shui art provider, Explosion Luck, reports that jewelry such as Buddha thangka pendant necklaces, and other Tibetan thangka jewelry is not just great to attract positive forces around you; they're actually much more!  These beautiful, wearable works of art are also a super hot fashion statement right now, as well! Explosion Luck offers beautiful and spiritually uplifting Feng Shui jewelry and Tibetan Thangka pendant necklaces for sale -- these are true works of art that are also wearable and fashionable.

Photo courtesy of ExplosionLuck.com

While pieces like this gorgeous Vairochana pendant are hot fashion statements, they also carry spiritual and metaphysical meaning as well.  Try some levity in your life with this stunning multicolor necklace -- or go for a more monochromatic style with this orange laughing Buddha necklace.  Pieces like these, and more at Explosion Luck, are the perfect mix of spiritual and artistic.  Show your love of Feng Shui with the world through these amazing statement pieces!  They are also wonderful focal points for meditation that you can take with you anywhere -- right around your neck whenever you're ready for them.

For more information on how you can make the most love, prosperity, and good fortune happen in your life though the vibrations of these gorgeous jewelry pieces, have a look at Explosion Luck's "Best Holiday Gift Guide" for 2015-2016 Feng Shui art gifts at this link.

Spotlight on Kiko of Beverly Hills

It has been said that true beauty comes from within.  If that's really the case, I've always wondered why people seem to be so preoccupied with the way that they look?  

The real truth is this:  when we feel comfortable and happy in our own skin, our inner beauty will shimmer outward to the surface.  We have the power to change the world's perception of us, simply by changing our own perceptions of ourselves.

What's one of the first things people advise their friends to do after a breakup, the loss of a job, or some other personal tragedy?  "Change your hairstyle.  It'll do you some good." 

While this may seem like a small thing… the truth is that civilizations throughout world history have placed importance on not just what's on the top of our heads, but how we wear it.  Even today, having the right hair makes all the difference in our own levels of confidence.  A "bad hair day" can elicit the deepest of sympathies, even from strangers.  A "good hair day" can make us feel as if we've got the world at our fingertips!  It's true -- confidence equals beauty.  

My friend, Kiko of Beverly Hills California, is a shining example of this concept.  He has been part of the salon industry for over 25 years.  A lot has changed in that time: styles have changed, trends have come and gone.  Yet, there is always one thing that these elements always have in common:  they inspire confidence and happiness in those who wear them.  And Kiko loves to use his considerable talents to impart that confidence in all who seek him.

Kiko has dedicated his life to helping others of all ages, genders, and lifestyles to look and feel more lovely.  After decades of hard work and research, he has developed an amazing line of products to share with the world!  His texturizing hair wax is sure to not only make your "crowning glory" look and feel fabulous, but it also contains healthy ingredients which can actually improve the state of your hair.  His texturizing hair wax contains a virtual medicine cabinet of vitamins (A, B, and E) to provide nourishment to the hair, as well as Indian gooseberry, a long-known holistic treatment for strengthening and preventing daily damage to hair.  Proteins and amino acids in Kiko's "Leeya" formula keep your hair strong, shiny, and ready for anything -- whether you're walking a fashion runway, or just want to look fabulous while running your daily errands.

I truly admire Kiko, both for his passion for creating workable, livable art that his clients can enjoy in themselves every day -- as well as for his visions of a more beautiful future.

To learn more about Kiko and his Leeya line of hair beautifying products, visit his website or You can also enjoy more of Kiko's creations at his amazing YouTube channel -- and his inspiring Instagram profile, as well!

You Will Never Be Perfect

Yes, I know the title of this message is pretty harsh!  But it's true.  When you strive for physical perfection, you should realize that you will never actually BE perfect.

I'm not saying that you shouldn't have goals and dreams -- you should.  That's healthy.  But the moment you begin to fixate on that number on the scale, or that perfect hair color, or that ideal clothing size, know that your goals will change the moment you achieve it.

Why?  It's because as humans, we're always conditioned to want more.  We might think that there's one magical solution to all of our problems, but the truth is that when we find that solution... we simply come up with a new set of problems.

Strive instead of health.  Excerise because it feels great, it's good for your body, and it releases endorphins which can lead to greater happiness and clarity of thought.  Take joy in your body and all the things it can do.  Eat healthy food that you love.  Appreciate where you are right now.

Love and Accept Your Body

The number on the scale, your BMI, or your clothing size -- none of these have any bearing on your worth as a person. 

We are so much more than just our bodies!  A friend of mine recently turned me on to an expression: "You are a spirit driving meat-coated skeleton made from stardust."  Consider that your entire existence is a miracle!  You have a mind that can think and reason, a heart that love and feel, and a soul that ties all of your parts together as it guides you along your path. 

You have the capacity for kindness, humor, love, and creativity.  None of these things can be measured with a scale, they can only be felt.

It's understandable to sometimes get caught up in comparing ourselves to society's ridiculous beauty standards.  But, when you're having that moment, take another to remember that your existence is a miracle.  Love your body for the things it can do.  Treat it well and strive for health.  The bottom line is that you are more than your body -- you're the whole beautiful package!

"Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks."

Writer Regina Brett's life lessons are great little nuggets of wisdom.  There's something for everyone!  I'll be reflecting on this week's lesson:  "Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks."

Life throws us all so many twists and turns.  Changes are often so hard to deal with that it can overwhelm us.  Just as we may think our goals are within sight, things can go from excellent to terrible in seconds flat.  But don't give up on those hopes and dreams that reside in your heart.  Do your part to work hard and make things happen, but don't forget to step back and have faith in the universe, as well.  Worry about the parts that you can control.  For everything else, slow your roll and let God have your back.

Visit Regina's website here.

Sex Goddess Lesson #3: Glamour Basics

Feeling happy and free can help you to feel beautiful, too!

Once you've learned to focus on what makes you sexy, dress to play up those physical or mental qualities.  Now, this doesn't mean that you should be glopping on the makeup, squeezing into push-up bras, pinchy shoes, and miles-too-tight clothing and then parading around in public like a piece of meat on display. If these are things that make you feel like a sex goddess, then knock yourself out.

But this really should be just about what you feel is sexy, not what other people do. Do certain fabrics just make you feel lovely and special -- silk, satin, velvet, lace?  Even a conservative clothing item that features sensual fabrics can make you feel different.  Perhaps you feel best in something that's comfy and cozy, or something chic and slinky and fabulous.

Maybe the clothes don't matter as much as the attitude -- try some deep red lipstick or sassy shoes to channel your inner vamp.  Even a spirtz of your favorite scent can make you feel especially alluring and intriguing.  It doesn't really matter what you choose, as long as it evokes that wonderful Goddess-like feeling.

Envision yourself as a Goddess in your private chambers, pampering yourself with your own special beauty rituals.  Whenever you're having an especially sad day, or you're just not feeling awesome, do this beauty ritual to cheer yourself up and get in touch with your inner sensuality.

Valentine's Day Spa Indulgence Ideas for Your Love!

While Valentine's Day can be fun and sensual for you and your romantic interest, you can enjoy these recipes with anyone -- have a good time with friends during your own personal at-home "spa party," or just relax and enjoy these recipes by yourself.  Here are a few ideas to pamper that "special someone" at home with a few easy spa-inspired preparations! :)

1. Make a rosewater toner using fresh rose petals! Pour a cup of boiling water over a cup of rose petals. Cover and steep the mixture until it's cool enough to handle. Strain the petals from the liquid, giving them a good squeeze to release all the yummy rose essence. Keep this in a sterilized spray bottle in the fridge for a cool pick-me-up anytime.

2. Bath salts are so easy to make! Get your favorite coffee mug, fill it halfway with any salt you happen to have around (epsom salt is great, but so is sea salt or even your standard iodized table salt!), a few pinches of baking soda, and a couple drops of your favorite essential oil. Pour this into your bath water for a purifying and enjoyable soak in the tub.

3. Take your favorite lotion and immerse the container in a sink filled with hot water for a soothing, warm massage.

4. Sugar scrub is another little treat that's sure to delight the skin when it's in need of a little exfoliation. Mix two parts sugar (white or brown) to one part olive oil. Add a few pinches of cinnamon and/or ginger from your spice rack, and voila, a luscious treatment for sexy, glowing skin!

The Beauty & Power of Crystals

Crystals are a paradox of strength and fragility. From the earth, these amazing stones possess an ethereal beauty and power. Crystals are lovely decorations, but they also serve practical functions as well. Crystals are relatively soft minerals, often categorized by their lead content. Because of their malleability, they can be shaped in an infinite number of ways to capture and reflect light.

Not only are these brilliant minerals awe-inspiring in their natural states or when cut into lovely shapes, they can also be used to make goods for the home, such as vases, serving utensils, candelabras, and wine glasses. Crystal is versatile and goes with everything, so it's often a "go to" style when choosing gifts for someone special. They make wonderful pieces for the household, as they can mix well with a casual and informal style, as well as the most elegant!

Many people use crystals for healing and to aid in their meditations. They can be used this way for a multitude of holistic practices. Since the dawn of civilization, people have been using crystals to aid in their mental, spiritual, and even physical health. Some people will acquire collections of them to arrange in various ways throughout their home, believing crystals will promote their health, peace of mind, and abundance. Some wear crystals or keep them nearby during meditation to help them focus. When worn, they can not only be powerful conductors of positive energy as they lie close to the body, but they can also enhance any outfit and express your own personal sense of style.

Crystals, and crystal items, can be found everywhere from high-end shops to jewelry stores, from specialty new-age shops to the corner drug store. The best part is that crystals and crystal items can range in price from only a couple of dollars or less, such as Swarovski crystals, all the way up to famous gems like painite or jeremejevite, which are considered priceless. You needn't spend a fortune to enjoy the beauty of crystals, however. Not only are they versatile and widely available, but crystals can enrich anyone's life with their brilliance.