MEDIA

Dr. Sara Gottfried (via GOOP) states that weight loss resistance is nearly always hormonally based in women. She says “Ninety percent of the time, I find that the main hormone that’s out of whack is cortisol (which ends up disrupting other hormones, too). Your body makes cortisol in response to stress, but most of us run around stressed too much of the time, and our cortisol is off as a result.

High or dysregulated cortisol levels wreak havoc over time, depleting your happy brain chemicals like serotonin, robbing your sleep, and making you store fat—especially in your belly. High cortisol is likewise linked to depression, food addiction, and sugar cravings.”

After a week of eating my body weight in leftover tiramisu, I am so ready for a month of clean eating!

But I won’t be depriving myself – instead I like to add more nutritious and enjoyable foods to my diet so I actually feel like I’m treating myself. I always stock up on fresh berries and make a batch of creamy nut butter to enjoy with fruit.

Here are a few more foods to consider adding to your diet during a detox. 
http://blog.paleohacks.com/detox-foods/#

I recently placed an ad on a local community Facebook page stating blithely that “Cellulite is so 2016”. Sure, it was pretty obviously tongue in cheek, but it elicited a response from a brave local who reacted with an angry face emoticon and a reply saying “cellulite is so reality”.

Whilst I applaud this person’s commitment to ‘keeping it real’, I have to admit, I do find it a little confronting that people are so quick to lash out and criticise without knowing the full story. I am fully aware that cellulite is real. As a ‘favourite’ pet-hate of mine, I’ve been studying it for years. I know why we get it, who’s most affected and that I should be totally cool about having it! 

This makes for a very interesting read. If you have 5 minutes, clink on the link to hear how this Dietician responds to the poorly researched claims made by the DAA (Dieticians Association of Australia).

http://foodmed.net/2017/01/27/daa-clueless-on-lchf-dietitian/

Certainly food for thought! These athletes are thriving on minimal (if any carbohydrates in their diets).

http://www.nationalpost.com/m/wp/sports/olympics/blog.html?b=news.nationalpost.com%2Fsports%2Folympics%2Fyou-get-used-to-eating-packets-of-butter-and-cups-of-whipping-cream-olympic-racewalker-evan-dunfees-high-fat-diet

https://authoritynutrition.com/10-health-benefits-of-intermittent-fasting/

Now here’s a bit of tech I’d like to try. An Irish innovation called ‘Aire’ is a hand-held breathalyzer device that figures out which foods disagree with a user’s gut and helps plan a diet that avoids them.

Think you’d use it?

https://foodmarble.com/#what-is

New evidence suggests that an imbalance in the gut microbes could be partly responsible for unruly behavior in children. This article (although a bit technical) explains how the brain develops, the role of the gut in this process, and how poor temperament in early childhood might be associated with gut microbial imbalance.

https://chriskresser.com/is-it-the-terrible-twos-or-is-it-a-disrupted-gut-microbiome/?utm_source=activecampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_term=is-it-the-terrible-twos&utm_content&utm_campaign=ck-blog

Umm, my Mum told me this many moons ago, but a recent study has shown that diet – particularly dietary Glycaemic Index, saturated fat, trans fat, milk and fish – had the ability to influence or aggravate acne development.

If your skin is ‘acting up’, perhaps you ought to consider removing dairy from your diet?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2017/01/29/dermatologists-discuss-whether-a-dairy-free-diet-really-can-improve-your-skin/

Any one else struggle with sugar cravings during a detox? These foods will naturally help.

http://www.furtherfood.com/foods-eliminate-sugar-cravings-heal-your-gut-sugar-detox/

As well as detoxing our bodies during Feb, I’m taking a closer look at the the products we use around the house and trying to cut back on known toxic materials. Remembering that many of these toxins are absorbed and stored in our fat cells, so doing everything we can to limit them will reduce our chances of cellulite worsening. (I’ve written a little about these in a previous post – 27th October 2016).

This article by Dr Axe clarifies some of the most potent toxins:

https://draxe.com/endocrine-disruptors-how-to-avoid-excess-estrogen/?utm_campaign=foodmatters&utm_medium=Affliate&utm_source=Facebook&utm_term

That feeling you get when one of your beautiful clients posts a happy review on your Facebook page! Sheer, unadulterated joy!

I am so honoured to be able to help these gorgeous women achieve their body goals and make wonderful new friends to boot!

#thankyoutuesday #takethatmonday #grateful #blessed #yesisaidblessed#endermologie #lpg #peninsulaendermologie #mteliza #melbourne#morningtonpeninsula #mornpen

Yesterday I heard about a local Doctor who prescribed exercise for his elderly patients, with great physical, emotional and social results. And now, prescriptions for veggies. This is my kind of news!

https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/doctors-prescribing-vegies-for-better-health#.WK57XGtGpEY.facebook

Endermolift facial by Endermologie. + 98% increased brightness of complexion
+ 21% smoothed wrinkles
+ 23% increased firmness
*Results from a study where skin (facial) biopsies were taken from 20 women and 10 men aged 35 – 50 years old.

https://www.facebook.com/peninsula.endermologie/videos/1426679157383141/

Most Endermologie customers across the world seek out Endermologie for the treatment of cellulite, and many other irregularities of the connective tissue or it’s often referred to, the fascia. 

LPG, the world leader in natural cellular stimulation, created Endermolift, the next generation in non-aggressive, anti-aging treatments to naturally rejuvenate skin from within.

With the ability to act deep within the dermis, Endermolift is the first and only technology in the world scientifically proven to increase the natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid by 80% to leave a glowing complexion, with fine lines smoothed and plumped, and puffiness and dark circles eliminated.

Endermolift targets and naturally stimulates fibroblasts and fat cells, to boost collagen production by 23% and the natural synthesis of elastic fibres by 46%, dramatically improving the skin’s suppleness.

Professor Humbert, Head of the Dermatology Department at the University Hospital of Besançon [France] and Director of the Skin Study and Research Centre, carried out a one-of-a-kind study on the biopsies of 20 individuals who were treated on half of their face with Endermolift.

“This study is a world first that really proves the revolutionary effectiveness of Endermolift™, giving hope to those looking to stay young naturally,” says Professor Humbert.

“After analysing the biopsies, we could see how fibroblasts were able to move and secrete substances in skin that decrease as we grow older: collagen which makes the skin firmer, elastin which makes it elastic, and hyaluronic acid which keeps it hydrated.”

I talk to my clients all of the time about the effects of hormones, particularly oestrogen and adrenaline, in maintaining a healthy equilibrium (and a cellulite-free body). This article explains why diet is so important and why simply calorie-counting is not enough.

http://www.foodmatters.com/article/why-your-hormones-need-you-to-cleanse

I love how with each client a new topic is covered and I learn so much from each conversation. Of course, I can’t help myself from sharing some of my learned wisdom too, and this morning I was extolling the virtues of bone broth. Not only is it easy and cheap to make, it has amazing health benefits. It’s my number one go-to if I’m feeling unwell and it’s amazing for your skin.

Here are a few more facts if, like me, you like a little scientific evidence:

https://chriskresser.com/the-bountiful-benefits-of-bone-broth-a-comprehensive-guide/?utm_source=activecampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_term=new-this-week-benefits&utm_content&utm_campaign=ck-roundup

This advice is good for health and beauty. Follow some of these guidelines for a healthy body and to reduce cellulite.

http://goop.com/5-cancer-fighting-foods-plus-what-to-avoid/

This is an interesting read about the Epstein Barr virus (EBV), with the author suggesting a link to many chronic health conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Tinnitus, Vertigo and Meniere’s disease.
As a ‘cure’, he recommends a diet rich in anti-oxidant-rich foods and natural supplements. Certainly worth a read, although science doesn’t quite support the argument just yet.

http://goop.com/the-medical-medium-and-whats-potentially-at-the-root-of-medical-mysteries/

Amazing. More and more research confirming the importance of diet and a healthy gut microbiome.

http://www.theage.com.au/act-news/were-at-the-tip-of-a-new-paradigm-radical-asthma-treatment-unveiled-in-canberra-20170326-gv735a.html

Any one else notice ‘Adaptogens’ popping up in food and lifestyle blogs more and more in the last few months? And for a very good reason! If you haven’t heard about them or started consistently introducing them into your diet, maybe it’s time to learn a little more?

https://www.popsugar.com.au/fitness/What-Adaptogens-41655064

Know you need to change your lifestyle to get healthier, but aren’t sure where to start. Here’s a few words that might help you prioritise diet, exercise and adequate rest.

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/where-do-i-start-the-big-picture-on-tackling-primal-challenges/?awt_l=PAXYs&awt_m=JFHT9sXVDhWvYa&utm_source=mda_newsletter&utm_campaign=mda_newsletter_020117&utm_medium=button1

If you’re not doing it, then here’s a great argument for why you ought to start. I encourage all of my clients to practice it at least a few times each week and follow it up with an application of my lush, natural body lotion. Your body will thank you for it!

http://www.naturalhealthmag.com.au/content/body-brushing-essential-guide

Looking for something special to thank your Mum for everything she does?

How about a voucher for a classic face or body treatment? You’ll receive a FREE express treatment with every voucher purchased!

*Vouchers are for the classic treatment protocols (averaging 35 – 45 mins). Express treatment times average 15 – 20mins.

I know I’ve mentioned before how much I love Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). Here’s some data to support my theories!

http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/take-apple-cider-vinegar-night.html?t=PH

I’ve been missing the goodness of my green smoothies in the mornings, but with this cold weather I’m just craving warmth. Starting the day with a cup of hot lemon water is just perfect. Add some fresh herbs, ginger and a little squeeze of honey for a lovely cleansing start to the day.

Lemon water will boost your immune system as it’s a great source of Vit C. It’s also an excellent source of potassium (which aids blood & lymphatic circulation, assists muscle recovery and supports your central nervous system) and is a great anti-inflammatory.

Anyone ever tried this? I’ve heard of castor oil being used as a laxative and skin moisturiser, but never used as a type of poultice to stimulate the lymphatic system. I’m just a little skeptical and would love to find out more about this strange theory!

If you’re after something that’s been tried and tested to stimulate your lymph system, then Endermologie is most definitely what you’re looking for!

http://besthealthyguide.com/technique-unclog-lymph-glands/

Wish it was better news on this sunny Melbourne morning! Remember to slap on that sun block ladies (and blokes)!

Article from May 2017 Medical Observer magazine.

I’m not quite ready for another detox just yet, although after Easter I feel like my diet is heaps better in any case.

Still, always good to be prepared for the next one.

Here’s some great info if you’re feeling the need to ditch the bad stuff and cleanse your body.

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/how-to-augment-and-support-your-natural-detox-capacities/?awt_l=PAXYs&awt_m=J4sO5m8UAhWvYa&utm_source=mda_newsletter&utm_campaign=mda_newsletter_040517&utm_medium=button1

This is really just the tip of the iceberg, but the outtake is: get more of these: Vitamin A (e.g. organ meat, eggs, grass-fed butter), Vic D (Sunlight), Copper (organ meat, shellfish) and Vitamin E (sunflower seeds, nuts, spinach).

And get less of these: PUFA fats (canola, soybean, soy & sunflower oil), excess iron (unnecessary supplements), excess estrogen – [you’ll really need a holistic Dr to check these levels out] and X-Rays/ultraviolet light.http://nutritionallywealthy.com/the-deficiencies-that-are-screwing-with-your-hormones/

Yes, it can and it does, for millions of people around the world.

And don’t just take my word for it, there’s plenty of peer-reviewed research to prove it too.

losing-weight-and-reducing-cellulite-can-endermologie-accomplish-both

Took advantage of the glorious sunshine to go for a walk in my local area and deliver some flyers.

Give me a shout if you get one and mention this post and I’ll give you a free express treatment!

#mondaymorning #walkinginsunshine #flyers#promo #freebie #offer #peninsulaendermologie#mteliza #morningtonpeninsula #mornpen #melbourne

A great article about how to reduce your exposure to environmental toxins by Dr Chris Kesser.

If you’re trying to reduce fat and cellulite, then consider taking some of these steps to help you detox.

Remember a course of lymphatic-stimulating Endermologie will also boost the detoxification.

https://chriskresser.com/environmental-toxins-steps-for-decreasing-exposure-and-increasing-detoxification/?utm_source=activecampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_term=environmental-toxins&utm_content&utm_campaign=ck-roundup

These are a little simplistic, but some of the suggestions regarding movement and horse chestnut supplementation are useful.

Remember that Endermologie is also scientifically proven to get great results in relieving lymphedema also.

5-most-popular-ways-to-fight-lymphedema-naturally

Warning. Do not click on the link if you’re squeamish, or considering cosmetic surgery any time soon.

As an ex cosmetic surgery nurse I’ve assisted in each of these procedures and many more that are even more invasive.

Hence my desire to help my clients to age ‘gracefully’, using non-invasive Endermologie techniques to prevent such ‘drastic’ measures.

http://sciof.us/2seFaAa

I love the idea of creating a ‘self-care’ plan, however I know the pedant in me would get anxious if I didn’t get everything crossed off the list, so this plan might backfire!

I am lucky that I naturally remind myself each day about how lucky I am and I tend to see the joy and beauty in everyday happenings. If you love a list, take a look and see if you can adapt this to your lifestyle!

http://enlightenedstate.net/home/2015/11/30/how-to-create-a-self-care-plan-and-why-you-need-one-with-a-free-self-care-printablee

I’ve been extolling the virtues of a high fat diet with my clients for some time now (healthy fats of course).

This makes for an interesting read and that avocado looks so pretty!

http://www.thenewstribune.com/latest-news/article153594599.html

Some good tips in here for maintaining healthy skin. If you don’t have time to read the full article, (or can’t stand the blatant advertising of products), then to sum it up; she recommends:

– Eating well, i.e. plenty of healthy fats, cruciferous veggies (in particular leafy greens) and adding anti-inflammatory spices (e.g. turmeric)
– Getting plenty of sleep
– Dry body brushing to stimulate your lymph
– Using natural cleansers and a face mask
– Keep well hydrated

I’ve tackled some of the myths about cellulite before. Here’s Huffington Post’s take on the matter…

http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2017/03/20/five-facts-and-fictions-about-cellulite_a_21903213/?utm_hp_ref=au-homepage

I had the absolute pleasure of meeting this beautiful lady today and treated her to an Endermolift facial by Endermologie.
Here’s what she said about her visit…

・・・
“This was fun. Today I treated myself to a facial at @peninsula.endermologie
Niamh (pronounced Neeve) is super cool and half the stuff she told me went over my head because I was just enjoying her accent (watch my Insta story to hear it). I hate facials because I always end up having a break out afterwards but this one was non invasive and actually quite relaxing. This little handpiece hickey’d (new word alert) my face and the flaps (ew flaps) gave a gentle pinch. It works on your circulation and helps produce collagen under your skin. (I’m pretending I know what I’m saying but I just stored the buzz words in my brain). I didn’t want it to end. My face was flushed and warm for a little bit afterwards, which I loved, and ever soft.
If you feel like escaping the real world (it was only a 40min drive for me), head down to Mt. Eliza and treat yo self!
There’s even a bigger version of this for cellulite on your body. Cellulite vacuum for the win ? .
#endermologie #facial #massage #treatment #mumpreneur#smallbusiness #sahm #girlboss #lmbdw #mummyblogger #notaponsored #genuinelove “

https://www.facebook.com/peninsula.endermologie/videos/1546684758715913/

Confused about what fat to use when cooking? If cooking on high heat my go-to’s are ghee or coconut oil.

But I also use plenty of olive oil and butter in low-temp cooking.

Here’s some facts about the benefits of coconut oil over processed oils (like canola).

https://www.facebook.com/MaxLugavere/videos/1685589765080776/

Always learning more about the benefits of Endermologie. Endermologie can assist with poor circulation by eliminating stasis, helping the blood back flow to ‘lighten’ the legs and remove fibrosis from the tissues in order to free then and restore tissue exchanges.

#endermologie #lpg #natural #noninvasive #massage #cellularstimulation#lipomassage #health #wellness #lymph #lymphaticdrainage#lymphaticmassage #connectivetissue #fascia #fibrosis #phlebology#nurse #peninsulaendermologie #mteliza #melbourne#morningtonpeninsula #mornpen

One of the most common questions I get asked is “How can I lose weight quickly?”

Although I always feel a long-term approach works best, I know that sometimes a quick-fix is required! So I’ve put together some tips on how to lose weight fast.

<<>>

How to lose weight fast.

1.Move your body

Consciously look for opportunities to move your body. Schedule a gym class or a run, if that’s your thing, at least 3 times a week. If your weight-loss deadline is imminent, try and increase that to a workout every day. It doesn’t have to be a 15k run, just a 10 minute high-intensity workout with weights or 20 minute up-hill power-walk will do the trick. Focus on your large muscle groups like your thighs and buttocks to get your metabolism fired up and keep that calorie burn happening for longer.

On the days where you just can’t face the gym, call up a friend and go for a walk, or if you’re headed to the mall, park at end furthest away from where you’re going and make a dash to the other side. For example if I need to grab something from Rebel Sport in my local shopping centre in Frankston I’ll intentionally park at the K-Mart end. Then I’ll sprint-walk to the other side as quickly as I can, taking the escalators or stairs and dodging in and out of human traffic!

2. Ditch the carbs and in particular, gluten.

That doesn’t mean you ought to start buying gluten-free products off the shelf, but just try and cut right back on processed food. The closest you keep your diet to ‘real’ food, the more your body will thank you for it. Obviously, if you’re working out every day, you’ll need to monitor your energy levels and if you start to feel exhausted, it might be time to allow more of the healthy carbs, like potatoes, fruit and even some ‘healthier’ grains like rice or quinoa back in.

3. More about diet. After all they say ‘abs’ are made in the kitchen.

Grab more time in your day by skipping most of the supermarket! All of my friends know I adore Aldi, so it’s no surprise that I’ve got my routine down-pat. Here’s a little map of how I do my ‘shop’. On a good day, I walk through the doors and sprint past all the confectionary, chips etc until I get to the olive oil, vinegars and canned food. I grab my tinned tuna and whatever else I need from there, then dash past the pasta and ‘ready-made sauces’ and grab loo roll and napkins and hurrah, I’ve made it through the worst bit!

Now all I need to do is browse the meat section (grass fed beef and lamb and free-range chicken or pork), avoiding any of the pre-marinated stuff, then grab any fruits and veggies I need to top up. [I get most of my fruit and veggies home delivered from a local green grocer]. Next I grab my dairy (yoghurt for the kids, cheese and butter), eggs, nuts and seeds, dessicated coconut etc and lo and behold I’m almost done! I always take a look at the frozen fish (they’re now stocking fresh tuna – hurrah) on the way out, totally ignoring that bakery section! If you just can’t live without bread, then sourdough is the way to go.

4. Increase the amount of healthy fat in your diet.

Healthy sources of fat such as nuts, avocado, coconut oil etc will help stave off hunger for longer and won’t trigger the same insulin ‘high’ as processed carbs. When we eat more fat we produce more of a fat-burning hormone called adiponectin. Adiponectin naturally helps to boost our metabolism and stimulates lipolysis (the breakdown of fat from the fat cell allowing the release of those fat molecules into the circulatory system, making it available for use as energy).

5. Drink more water.

Make sure you have a water bottle with you in the car, at work, at home etc. Staying hydrated is fundamental to maintaining a healthy lymphatic circulation and efficient elimination of toxins. Better ‘flushing’ them out than storing them in fat!

6. Sub your normal tea and coffee for green tea.

Two key ingredients in Green tea (Caffeine and EGCG) have been proven to stimulate the metabolism and lipolysis (fat breakdown).

7. Commit to a plan.

Be it ‘Whole 30’, ‘Feb-Fast’, ‘Dry July’, ‘Mission Hot Bride’ or whatever it is. Make weekly goals and then tell everyone so you have to stick to it. When you hit your weekly target, reward yourself with a nice massage or an experience you really enjoy.

8. Make that massage an Endermologie massage.

Endermologie is clinically proven to stimulate fat loss and because it boosts lymphatic circulation, it helps your body to detox so much more quickly.

Here’s a virtual representation of how the skin is gently drawn into the Endermologie hand piece (aka Ergolift treatment head), mobilsing fat and releasing it inyo our circulatory system. It also increases access to allow better drainage of lymphatic (waste) fluid and promotes better oxygenation of the skin (through increased capillary action). And last but certainly not least, it manipulates the connective tissue (fascia) to boost collagen production and create more youthful skin. Studies show that tissue stimulation is increased by a whopping 270%.

Thank you to gorgeous Emma for sharing your experience here at Peninsula Endermologie!

If you want to check it out go and take a look at her awesome blog @marvellousmorningtonpen

http://www.marvellousmp.com/2017/07/reduce-stubborn-fat-cellulite-naturally/

Loved meeting these inspiring folks, (here’s me with Maria and Mila from France Medical) and Nelson Philippe (Grandson of Louis Paul Guitay – LPG) as well as Endermologie practitioners from all across Australia.

More pics up on instagram @peninsula.endermologie

Here’s a little background of the story of France Medical’s involvement with world-renowned LPG. So proud to work with the France Medical team in sharing Endermologie with my little pocket of Australia.

http://www.professionalbeauty.com.au/2016/05/03/france-medical-celebrates-fifth-anniversary/#.WV4QJa2gKh0.facebook

Some of these suggestions (e.g. the vampire facial) make me cringe a little, but I wholeheartedly agree with the last recommendation.

And it’s not just for celebs. I bet you’ll be surprised by how affordable it can be. Just pop in for a free consultation and lets get you rocking curves like Beyoncé!

Tel: 0434 946 209

https://www.treatwell.co.uk/treatment-files/10-beauty-treatments-celebs-swear-by/

Is your skin looking less than glowy?

Tired of spending the equivalent of a small country’s national debt on products that claim to reverse the signs of ageing, but don’t actually deliver?

Want a couple of simple tips to keep it looking smooth and soft and feeling like a baby’s bottom?

First of all, take a good hard look at all of those products you’ve accumulated over the years. Go on. Read the list of ingredients on the label. If the list of names goes beyond 4 or 5, or you struggle to pronounce some of the words, then there’s a pretty good chance the product you’re putting on your skin is a chemical poo-storm.

Many well-known products, cheap, mid-range cost and even the uber – expensive ones contain a whole heap of stuff we ought to avoid putting on our skin at all costs. There’s artificial colours and fragrances, parabens (used as preservatives and are known endocrine disruptors) and SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) which is a known trigger for breathing and kidney problems. Each of these, and many more toxic ingredients not mentioned here, can be absorbed into our skin, our circulatory system and into our fat cells, all adding to the toxic load that our bodies struggle to fight every day.

Obviously we all know that the aim of the game is to try and reduce our exposure to toxins as much as possible, so what’s a girl or boy supposed to do when it’s winter and our skin rebels and we need rescuing fast? Well, I may just have the solutions you need!

And, I promise you, it’s more cost-effective and simple and natural than you could ever imagine!

First of all, let’s talk exfoliation. Over time our body generates new skin cells, shedding the old ones like leaves building up under a tree during Autumn. If those old cells are left to accumulate, they can make the surface of the skin look dull, dry and a far cry from that dewy look we all love. When left to their own devices the old skin cells will eventually try and create their own moisture, making the skin appear more oily and clogging up our pores, which is when we start seeing zits appearing! Exfoliation is simply the act of getting rid of those old skin cells, thereby allowing the newer, fresh skin to shine through. There’s a theory that a good exfoliation will stimulate the production of that magic ingredient, collagen, to boost a more youthful appearance, however the science is a little sketchy and I believe that to boost collage, we need to target a deeper layer of skin rather than just the surface.

So, what to use? Please, please stay away from microbeads. For such teeny things, they cause a huge mount of environmental damage. Salt scrubs are OK, but with sensitive skin like mine, it’s far too abrasive and leaves my skin feeling a little too ‘raw’ and fine. Plus, because of my Irish complexion, I really need to re-densify to help manage my rosy glow!

So here’s my tip…drum roll please…use a mixture of coconut oil and baking soda (aka sodium bicarbonate).

Yes, I’m serious, reach into your pantry, grab a few tablespoons of coconut oil and a few tablespoons of baking soda and mash it all together with a teaspoon. If the coconut oil is soft this will be easier, but you can add a teeny splash of filtered water too if you need to loosen it up. For a little more indulgence you can add a little squeeze of honey or if you’re in the throes of a break-out a couple of drops of tea-tree will be your best friend.

In case you think I’ve gone entirely mad, let me explain my choice of ingredients. Coconut oil is made up mostly of medium chain fatty acids which means it’s easily absorbed by the skin, it has a long shelf-life, contains Vitamin E which is a known antioxidant and therefore has anti-aging properties. It’s also credited with strengthening underlying epidermal tissue, acts as a natural sunblock, is naturally antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. Hello! What’s not to love?

And baking soda. Baking soda has been used as a cleanser from its earliest inception. It has a mild abrasive action to help slough away those old skin cells and it also has natural anti-bacterial properties. I love it because it feels so gentle on the skin, though I do get a tingly sensation after a minute or two, but it washes away easily, leaving my skin glowing.

Are you convinced yet? Let me tell you how I apply it. Firstly I grab my jar (I make a big batch and store it in a clean glass jar), and scoop a teaspoon out and place it in the palm of my hand. Then I massage it with my fingers until it becomes nice and soft and looks more like a paste than a clump of icy cold coconut oil. Then I simply use my fingertips to massage it all over my face and décolletage. When it’s time to clean it all off, wet a face-washer with warm water and gently wipe all of the residue away. It might take a few goes. My skin usually feels ‘dewy’ enough from the coconut oil that I don’t even need to apply any more moisturiser afterwards.

So that’s tip number 1. But let me tell you, if you really want to get your skin looking its best, then tip number 2 is to boost the production of new, collagen-rich skin cells from within. A healthy diet and proper hydration will go a long way towards that, but if you want to see results more quickly then you must try Endermologie!

Even immediately after one Endermolift treatment (i.e. Endermologie facial), your skin will feel softer and your complexion will glow. Endermolift by Endermologie stimulates the skin to wake up the fibroblast, the key youth cell. This stimulation, as effective as it is pleasant, reactivates the natural anti-aging processes.

Endermolift is the first and only technique in the world that has been scientifically proven to increase natural hyaluronic acid synthesis by more than 80% to re-volumise the dermis and smooth wrinkles.

It has been proven to stimulate elastin synthesis by more than 46% for a skin that is more resistant to multiple muscular micro-contractions, which are often the source of expression lines.

The technique produces new high-quality collagen and eliminates degraded collagen fragments to detoxify the skin.

This natural and pleasant anti-ageing technique restores the delicate tissues of the face, neck, décolletage and hands, firming and smoothing away lines and wrinkles without the use of electrical currents, injections or chemicals.

The skin is visibly redensified and replumped from within. The signs of aging fade away while the face’s natural expression is preserved.

• The complexion is 98% more radiant
• Facial contours are redefined
• Fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed
• Skin density is increased
• Cheekbones appear higher
• Improves the appearance of under eye bags and circles
• Firms and tones the skin, lifting the eyes and jowls
• Lips are plumped
• Double-chin is toned
• The face appears rested and less tired.

So instead of investing in expensive face creams that have dubious (if any) proper evidence that they work, perhaps you ought to consider investing in a treatment program that will make a significant difference to your skin. No pseudo-science, no needles, no risk, just a relaxing and effective anti-aging facial that delivers real results.

Anyone reading this in the Chemist Warehouse ‘House of Wellness’ catalogue and thinking “that sounds like me”? If you have poor circulation and are feeling the effects of the cold this winter, remember that Endermologie will boost your cardiovascular circulation by 400% for at least 6 hours after each treatment.

My clients find twice – weekly treatments are wonderful to maintain that circulation boost and relieve the discomfort of cold hands and feet.

#Endermologie #LPG #cellum6 #cellum6integral #innovation #natural#noninvasive #body #massage #health #wellness #circulation#coldhands #coldfeet #raynauds #sluggishcirculation#peninsulaendermologie #mteliza #melbourne #morningtonpeninsula#mornpen

Here’s a small selection of some of the facials I offer with Endermologie. However I tailor each treatment to the individual depending on their requirements.

If any of these sound good, book in to try it for yourself.

Tel: 0434 946 209

Although I haven’t tried the 5:2 myself (I know if I intentionally tried restricting food on certain days, I’d end up obsessing about food and getting grumpy!), but I love that he’s promoting a healthy balanced diet full of healthy fats, veggies and natural ferments.

http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/what-michael-mosley-has-learnt-since-the-52-diet-20170221-guicoz.html

Congrats to @lpgendermologie_my who won the ” Her World Beauty Awards 2017 Judges’ Choice for Best Body Treatment” for LPG Endermologie.

This state-of-the-art treatment:
✔️Naturally targets the fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.
✔️Gently mobilizes the tissues to boost circulatory exchanges.
✔️Activates stubborn fat release.
✔️Smoothes cellulite.
✔️Noticeably firms the skin, wherever you want.

A good read from Dr Axe

https://draxe.com/lymphatic-system/

Such a great article, as always, from Mark Sisson. There are very few of us exempt from the struggle of having a negative body image. Fundamentally I believe if we start by embracing the best of us and rewarding ourselves by treating our bodies with respect, then the rest tends to fall into place (more or less). What do you think?

https://shar.es/1Sp5jc

https://youtu.be/C-90aOMAGH8

Positive reviews make my heart sing, plus the feedback I hear every day from my clients who prefer not to ‘go public’ with their praise makes me so grateful for my ‘work’.

It’s good to finally have something in common with Beyonce! ?

P.S. In case you can’t be bothered clicking on the link: #AngelinaJolie#MatthewMcConaughey #JenniferLopez #PenelopeCruz #TyraBanks#Beyonce #SylvesterStallone #BritneySpears

https://www.richardmagazine.com/lpg/

Fascinating research which offers hope to so many.

If you don’t ave time to read the full article, the out-take is pretty simple: cut back on high-glycemic foods (refined carbs & sugar), exercise regularly, get enough sleep, reduce toxic exposure, nourish your body with real food (supplement if necessary), treat any known disease, keep your brain active and avoid stress!

https://chriskresser.com/new-hope-that-alzheimers-can-be-prevented-and-even-cured/

https://www.facebook.com/peninsula.endermologie/videos/1626781084039613/

After so many years of hearing the opposite message, many people still struggle to believe fat is necessary in their diet.

Hopefully this study will start to shift that perception.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/08/29/low-fat-diet-linked-higher-death-rates-major-lancet-study-finds/

Endermolift is the first and only technique in the world which has been scientifically proven to increase natural hyaluronic acid synthesis by 80%.
– Hyaluronic acid +80%
– Natural elastin +46%
– Radiance +98%
– Smoothed wrinkles +21%
– Firmness +23%
Breakdown of collagen is prevented and there’s synthesis of new, quality collagen.

French football team, Paris Saint-Germain, are about to take delivery of their specially-branded Endermologie machines. Taking sports performance and rehabilitation to a whole other level.

Luckily for you, you don’t have to play like Neymar to enjoy the benefits of Endermologie. So if your muscles and fascia need some TLC, Niamh at Peninsula Endermologie will sort you out.

#psg #paris_saint_germain #neymar #10 #sportsmassage #sportsrehab#sportsrecovery #sootheachingmuscles #soremuscles #tightfascia#doms #lacticacid #recovery #results #peninsulaendermologie #mteliza#melbourne #morningtonpeninsula #mornpen #Repost@nelsonphilippe_lpg

Ever wondered why you’re still reaching for the flannelette sheets when hubby is throwing the covers off? Well, that same sub-cutaneous fat that causes our cellulite to appear worse is partly to blame. But, although it may not feel like it, it’s actually doing us a big favour. If you’re a data nerd like me, read on!

P.S. It doesn’t mean we need to live with cellulite. Having subcutaneous fat is one thing, allowing the deterioration of our connective tissues (fascia) and build up of lymphatic fluid is another thing entirely, so there’s still every reason to use Endermologie to boost your circulation and get rid of your cellulite!

http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/health/health-news/why-women-feel-the-cold-more-than-men/news-story/912f3237c954d89968900c189177617d

As always, Mark Sisson breaks down a compacted subject and explains his theory for healthy hormones, which in turns means a healthy metabolism and a thriving body.

If you don’t have time to read the full article, this is how he suggests we regulate our hormones in a nutshell:

– Get plenty of sleep
– Eat a well-balanced diet
– Exercise with intensity (not longevity) and move your body when the opportunity arises.
– Find ways to lower your stress levels
– “Discover meaning in your life” – i.e. do what makes you feel satisfied & happy
– Take notices of changes and measure results
– Have some exposure to natural elements (heat & cold)
– Get professional advice

https://www.marksdailyapple.com/9-ways-to-normalize-your-hormones/?awt_l=PAXYs&awt_m=JRKEFjRByhWvYa&utm_source=mda_newsletter&utm_campaign=mda_newsletter_092717&utm_medium=button1

I love an inspiring tale of a person who takes a bad situation and uses it to make the world a better place. Here’s the inspiring story of Louis Paul Guitay, founder of LPG.

https://www.richardmagazine.com/louis-paul-guitay/

I’ve put off writing this post for a long time, as I know the gargantuan machine that is “Ashley Black Fascia Guru” probably wouldn’t take very kindly to it. But this week the subject came too close to home and now I feel compelled to share my humble opinion on the ever more infamous “Fascia Blaster”.

I bet you’re wondering what got me ‘all fired up’ all of a sudden? Well, this week I had the pleasure of meeting a beautiful young lady, who, like me, has struggled with cellulite for most of her formative years. She, like me, had done a tonne of research about cellulite over the years, had a pretty sound knowledge of anatomy and was clever enough to understand that there are no quick fixes for the problem. And, yet still, during a visit to Peninsula Endermologie this week she brought into my clinic her very own ‘Fascia Blaster’ to ask my opinion on it!

Cue awkward silence.

When I’m faced with a choice between telling people what they want to hear (i.e. in this case, I probably ought to have said something along the lines of; “I’m sure it has merits and your hard-earned money has been well-spent”… or telling the truth as I feel it, then I just can’t help myself, the truth will always win over!

So, I had to be honest and advise her that I consider it a poorly thought-out instrument of torture. Now, I know there are heaps of testimonials on Ashley Black’s website claiming it’s efficacy in getting rid of cellulite and even helping people cope with chronic pain disorders, but let’s face it, her website isn’t exactly neutral territory is it? It’s worth noting, that many independent reviewers were not as impressed: https://www.influenster.com/revi…/ashley-black-fasciablaster. The Fascia Blaster is marketed in a clever and relentless fashion, but in my humble opinion, it could harm both wallet and skin.

First of all, the thing HURTs. Even its advocates admit that. Apart from the odd quirky soul, most humans are programmed to avoid pain. And there’s a good reason for that. Pain means injury to the body and although the human body is remarkably good at healing, it’s still a process that creates inflammation and stress. In the short term, inflammation means extra fluid in your interstitial tissues, causing an increased workload for what may already be a sluggish lymphatic system. So, in essence, it’ll just make the problem worse. And in the long run, we know that inflammation and stress are two prominent factors in early morbidity.

The theory behind the Fascia Blaster is that it “opens and loosens” fascia to “lesson the look of cellulite”, “make muscles function better”, “break up fat”, “improve soft tissue pain” and “increase blood flow”. Sounds great right? Almost too good to be true? And you’d presume such lofty claims would be backed by science and approved by the American medical governing body the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wouldn’t you? But, nope, there’s no science here. No approval by the FDA. No scientific studies whatsoever and no proper factual evidence at all that the thing does what it says it’s supposed to.

Recent studies (proper clinical ones), do show the benefit in maintaining a healthy, supple fascia (or connective tissue as it’s known in the medical field). And all of the benefits listed above are associated with a healthy fascia. However, what hasn’t been proven is that Ashley Black’s instrument has had any benefit whatsoever on any of these conditions. Now, I love a good testimonial and even better, seeing the evidence for myself, but I also value the rigour and accuracy of a decent clinical study. Without this evidence, these claims simply become marketing tools, spouted only to sell more product and no doubt make Ashley Black a fine profit.

While I have no problem with anyone making an ‘honest’ living, my concern is that in the wrong hands, the Fascia Blaster can injure people’s skin and might even cause permanent damage. At its very essence, the Fascia Blaster is designed to make you bruise your skin. Now, the odd bruise here and there is not very problematic. But significantly bruising your skin on an ongoing basis can cause numerous problems. Think broken blood vessels or spider veins, poor skin tone (yep, that’s right, saggy skin) and skin pigmentation (haemosiderosis). If you really want to scare yourself, take a look at this rather dramatic account of what might happen if you severely damage your fascia: http://www.collectivewizdom.com/MassagingYourFascia-Top7Hea…

The very idea of causing injury to skin in order to improve a condition is not a new one in the cosmetic and beauty world. However, if there is a non-invasive, painless, clinically-proven alternative, surely we owe it to ourselves to treat our skin with the care it deserves?

If you’re struggling with the appearance of cellulite and are after some tips to help lessen its appearance, then you’ll find a heap of info on this page: https://peninsulaendermologie.com/?page_id=508. There are 11 tips to help you make a real difference to your skin and most of it won’t cost you a cent. If you’ve tried these and you’re still not seeing a great difference, then I urge you to try Endermologie. It’s safe, respects the skin, is scientifically proven to work by over 140 clinical trials (many published and peer reviewed in respected clinical journals) and has over 30 years of expertise behind the technology.

If you have any more questions about cellulite or are tempted by some of the ‘miracle cures’ that are promoted to treat the condition, please have a chat with me first. I’ll do my best to steer you in the right direction, and you’ll always be guaranteed an honest answer!

Don’t read if you’re squeamish, but please do read if you’re considering any cosmetic procedure and haven’t done too much research about the procedure or who’s doing it for you.

I see so many cheap deals on groupon every week offering fillers, botox and cosmetic tattooing etc etc and although many of these places are probably legit, it scares me to think there are plenty of dodgy backyard-alley ‘salons’ out there offering treatments to clients that they’re not qualified or equipped to perform.

I’ve been wanting to post this for ages now but really, really wanted to make sure I’d read it thoroughly and understood every nuance before I did. However, I’ve realised that I may not have the time to do this in the next few weeks (at least) and perhaps someone else will benefit from reading it (or listening to the podcast) before then.

There are some great points from Robb Wolf, Research Biochemist and author of “The Paleo Solution” (another excellent read) and Chris Kresser, much-respected leader in the field of ancestral health, Paleo nutrition, and functional and integrative medicine.

Although I advocate eating as close to nature as possible which means avoiding any food with a label, it’s all but impossible in this day and age. Because our lives demand convenience, we need to eat processed food occasionally, so it’s important to know exactly what’s contained within the packaging.

Food labelling can often be confusing (if not deliberately misleading). Here’s a simple tool to help you figure out what’s good and what’s not.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-25/food-labels-how-to-read-the-fine-print/8740444

RHR: Can Your Paleo “Template” Include Grains & Legumes?

Chatting with a client about this today and couldn’t remember the details about why Paleo advocates avoid grains & legumes in their diets. And why vegetarians and vegans typically have much higher rates of nutrient deficiency. This article answers a lot of these questions.

As with most things in life, it seems preparation and balance are key.

Inflammation seems to be a buzzword at the moment. And it’s definitely one to take seriously.

http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/health/health-news/experts-say-this-one-thing-is-making-you-fat-unhappy-and-sick/news-story/5f55255754cfbaaf8be2117141b61643

Feel like you’re doing everything ‘right’ and you’re still struggling to lose weight? There are many factors to play and one important factor that should not be overlooked is your stress level.

Women, in particular, are affected greatly by cortisol (the “stress hormone”) as, in order for our bodies to manufacture cortisol, we often deplete our progesterone levels, leaving us with too much oestrogen. Some experts call this condition “oestrogen dominance”.

Oestrogen dominance is widely associated with weight gain, water retention, inflammation and many correlating health and wellness issues.

Last week I wrote about oestrogen dominance and it’s effect on weight retention. Here’s a good article on how to help naturally balance hormones.

http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/health/health-news/natural-ways-to-balance-your-hormones/news-story/1a5fae44258c7328d2450387218e6b7c

So, it’s the 1st December and the countdown to Christmas is on!!

EEEEKKK.

For the next 24 days I’m going to write one tip a day to help you keep your body healthy, achieve effective, sustainable weight loss (if that’s what your body needs), minimise the factors that cause cellulite to worsen and feel good in your skin!

Our bodies are composed of almost entirely water (70% – 90%), so we need plenty of the stuff just for survival. As we naturally excrete water via sweat and other means, we need to constantly replenish our fluid balance. So , in order to ensure our organs and digestive system are all working to their full potential, most people need at least 1.5 litres of water a day.

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals will show in your skin.

The ideal amount is 800 grams of fruit and veggies a day. Which means it’s best to incorporate them into every meal, including brekkie.

Do your skin a favour and make dry skin brushing party of your routine every day (or every two or three days).

First grab a good quality dry brush, ideally with bristles made from natural materials such as boar hair (soft) or cactus (aka agave, tampico or sisal) which is a bit tougher.

Tip No. 5 in the Christmas Countdown is to find ways to reduce your stress levels.

Our bodies are magnificent. They’re automatically wired to respond to situations to keep us safe and free from harm. As soon as our bodies perceive a stressful situation (sometimes even before we’ve had time to process it mentally), our bodies will have primed our central nervous system (CNS) to react with a ‘fight or flight’ response.

The hypothalamus in our brains perceives a threat and sends a message to our adrenal glands to release the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. Whether the ‘threat’ is being chased by a sabre-tooth tiger or hurriedly looking for a pair of clean school socks 5 minutes after you’re supposed to have left home, our bodies will react in the same way, quickened heart rate, increased blood pressure, tightening of muscles, quickened breath and sharpened senses.

Which all sounds kinda great, except that after a few hours or even a few days in this ‘alarm’ stage, our bodies will become completely exhausted. If the stress continues, it can cause sleep problems, memory loss, reduced immunity and generally leave you feeling worn out and miserable.

Most of us know that stress can result in emotional over-eating (and/or making poor dietary choices), but there is also research to suggest that ‘stressed’ women metabolize fat and sugar differently, so they end up gaining more weight (typically around their waist) than women who ate a similar diet but reported low stress levels.

Chronic or long-term stress can not only leave you with mood swings, anxiety, weight gain and malaise, it will also show in your skin as it diminishes water, oxygen and essential vitamins. Skin will often show signs of distress like excess oil, spots and/or acne, rosacea and a dull complexion.

Some schools of thought suggest that humans are designed to deal with stress for about 5% of our day, however the reality is that most of us spend around 95% of our days feeling stressed. Whether it’s dealing with public transport, technology not being nearly quick enough, crazy schedules and bloomin missing socks, it all amounts to the same result – high cortisol levels.

So, it’s vital for us to make conscious decisions to reduce our stress levels. If we can omit the cause of stress, then that’s wonderful, but I bet those socks will stay missing for longer than I’d like, so it’s good to try techniques to help you cope a little better.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started, but really whatever helps you to ‘slow down’ and relax will do the trick.

1. Practice deep breathing techniques (Check out Wim Hof for some seriously inspirational breathing techniques)

2. Learn to meditate (e.g. you can use visualisation techniques, promise yourself 5 mins to sit quietly each day, or meditate using art or music)

3. Get out in nature. Take a walk, go for a swim, lie on the grass – getting out in nature has so many benefits that are only just now being really understood

4. Find an exercise that you love. Yoga, CrossFit, Karate, whatever, as long as it gets the heart pumping and the body moving, it’s all good

5. Meet with a friend to chat and laugh. After all, laughter is really the best medicine.

6. Have a massage. Massage will relieve stress and help with any aches and pains, so it’s a win-win. Plus an endermologie massage will make your skin look fabulous, so what’s not to love?

There are just a start. What do you find works best for you?

Research shows that sleep is vital for a healthy body, boosting our immune function and metabolism as well as supporting our brain function (i.e. memory and learning). Lack of sleep has been shown to cause inflammation, which is bad news for our long-term health as it’s been linked to diabetes, heart disease (including high blood pressure & heart attacks), stroke, depression, arthritis, obesity and premature aging.

Day 7 of our Christmas Countdown. Anyone else wonder where this week has gone?

Here’s Tip No. 7 – If you smoke…stop!

Cigarette smoke is extraordinarily toxic and results in the premature death of more than 50% of lifelong smokers. Smoking affects every aspect of our health, causing lung and heart disease, autoimmune diseases, eye disease, bone disease, reproductive disorders such as infertility and cancers that result in death.

There are very few people who don’t realise the significance of this, however there are still plenty of people who are in the throes of addiction, or turn to cigarettes in times of stress or even the odd ‘social’ situation.

So, if the ‘bigger picture’ isn’t utterly terrifying to you in a way that makes you want to seek out help you stop smoking, here’s a look at what smoking does to your looks. After all the idea of this countdown is to spur you along to make health changes that will support your Endermologie treatments and achieve your body goals. Of course these points are by no means the biggest motivator for many people (not should they be), but perhaps reading them might help you decide to kick the ‘habit’ once and for all?

Cigarettes / tobacco smoke contains thousands of substances that damage the skin. For example carbon monoxide is known to deplete the oxygen in your skin, resulting in damage to blood vessels and eventually tissue death (necrosis/ gangrene).

Then there’s nicotine, which also reduces your blood circulation, depleting it of vital nutrients, including vitamin C, which we need to protect and repair damaged skin. Nicotine also speeds up the breakdown of the collagen in your connective tissues (fascia), which causes it to lose elasticity and suppleness. Therefore, a smoker’s skin essentially ages more quickly than that of a non-smoker, leaving many smokers with dry, coarse skin, facial wrinkles – especially those tell-tale lines around the mouth, sagging skin, ‘bags’ and dark circles under the eyes, uneven skin tone – sometimes with a grey or yellow tinge and pigmentation.

Smokers are also more prone to skin disorders such as acne, delayed wound healing, increased risk of infections, psoriasis and other autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions.

Although smoking isn’t usually associated with weight gain, we know that nicotine has complex effects on our hormones, and research suggests that although the short-term effect of smoking might decrease our appetite and increase our metabolic rate, the long-term changes seem to increase appetite and decrease our metabolism. Although it’s not known how exactly, many scientists believe that nicotine stimulates increased cortisol (“stress” hormone) which alters the balance between male and female sex hormones, leading to increased fat storage. A 2009 Dutch study confirmed that smokers had more visceral fat than non-smokers. Visceral fat means ‘deep’ fat that’s stored in the abdominal cavity which is wrapped around the major organs, including the liver, kidneys and pancreas. This visceral fat is a known factor in the increased the risk of diseases such as diabetes. This fat is generally much harder to get rid of than subcutaneous fat and usually looks like your archetypal ‘beer gut’.

So, if you want to stop smoking or know someone who should, here are a few suggestions to help you/them quit:

• Online/ telephone support: www.quit.org.au

• Ask your friends & family for support – the more people you tell you’re quitting, the harder it is to back down!

• Write down a list of all the reasons you want to quit and pop it where you’ll see it every day, at your desk, your bathroom mirror, the fridge door etc.

• Take up a new hobby or find something you enjoy doing as a distraction, e.g. try meditation, commit to going to the gym or go for a walk every morning. If you start the day out right, it’s easier to stay on track

• Avoid situations where you know you’re likely to be tempted – especially in the early days

• Consider hypnotherapy or other natural therapies such as acupuncture. Consult a naturopath for additional support

• Set yourself targets, e.g. take it day-by-day or week-by-week, or just missing the cigarette you usually smoke after lunch. Then celebrate each milestone.

• Talk to your GP about nicotine replacement

• If you fall off the wagon, hop right back on. Don’t dwell on the ‘failure’, just keep pushing through with the intention always being to quit for good.

#LPG #endermologie #peninsulaendermologie #cellulite#cellulitereduction #antiageing #tone #body #cleaneating #stopsmoking#mteliza #melbourne #health #wellness

Don’t panic, I’m not telling you to cut coffee out of your life, because let’s face it, you’d stop reading now if I said that, wouldn’t you?

Yesterday I talked about pimping your coffee, today I’m going to suggest you ‘wear’ it too. Just for a short time, whilst in the shower! I’m sure it’s not the first time you’ve heard this, but coffee scrubs are awesome for your body.

A good coffee scrub should contain only natural ingredients, with coffee and another exfoliating component like sugar or salt. Many contain oils that help to replenish the moisture in your skin and some essential oils that stimulate circulation etc.

First of all, lets start with the very basics. Everybody’s skin is different. Any decisions on which moisturiser to use can only be based on individual trial and error. But I do believe that most of us have some common ground and that the choice of which, if any, products to use should not be quite as complicated as the beauty industry would have us believe.

I know my Granny used Oil of Olay pretty much every day of her adult life and her skin was just amazing. I will never forget my Grandad referring to her complexion as “peaches and cream” and let me tell you, he was not the kind of man you would have thought would notice these things! Her secret was not the moisturiser she used she claimed, but she was adamant her skin stayed supple and fresh because she never used soap, only water to wash her face.

Of course, L’Oreal, Dermalogica, Clinique etc. etc. wouldn’t be too pleased with this kind of skincare advice, with so much of their advertising dollars spent trying to sell us the next “miracle” cream! However the truth is, our skin will usually look amazing if we eat well, drink lots of water and get plenty of rest. What goes ‘on top’ is not really too big a deal.
First and foremost, many products that are marketed these days are very similar in their chemical make-up, I really do believe that with a few exceptions, the only big difference is the cost of packaging and marketing.

So what should we look for in a moisturiser? Number one tip is to try and find a product that’s as natural as possible. As with foods, if we can’t pronounce what’s on the label, we probably shouldn’t be using it on our skin. Most commercial moisturisers contain a combination of water, preservatives, silicones, mineral & polyunsaturated oils, alcohol and artificial colours and scents. Some can mildly irritate the skin while others are downright toxic.

Like most processes in our bodies, once we nourish ourselves and support good health, our skin tends to look after itself. It naturally exfoliates itself regularly, with old, dead skin cells dying away, sloughing off and being replaced with new skin cells. If this process is interfered with and the dead cells are not sloughed away efficiently, it may slow down the production of new cells. Unfortunately, some moisturisers might hinder the exfoliation process and actually stunt the cell turnover, leading to a dull, tired complexion.

There is also a belief that if we use artificial products on our bodies, our bodies become accustomed to these artificial products and become ‘lazy’, i.e. it doesn’t work as hard to regulate its moisture producing cells (e.g. hyaluronic acid) and instead puts up with the replacement, even if it’s far less effective in the long run. The other problem is that when we apply moisturizer, it alters our skin’s natural balance of proteins, water and lipids. This could result in dehydrated and irritated skin which could lead to a breakdown of the tissues leaving us vulnerable to infection.

So, the best advice is to stop and think about whether your skin really needs a moisturiser. If your skin is looking dry, then increase the amount of water you drink for a few days, try some gentle exfoliation and see if that helps. If not, choose a natural moisturiser with as few ingredients as possible. I recommend a blend of coconut oil and shea butter with some essential oils to tackle any skin issues, e.g. tea tree & lavender for breakouts, cypress & rosehip for anti-wrinkles and grapefruit & juniper for cellulite.

What do you think? Do you have a product you swear by? Or do you try a variety of products and can’t really notice much of a difference?

To minimise the risk of developing or worsening cellulite, avoid wearing clothes that are too tight-fitting.

I know those Lorna Jane leggings and tight jeans make your pins look amazing and are great at stopping the ‘wobble’, but the problem with wearing anything that’s compressive for very long is that it restricts your subcutaneous (skin tissue) circulation.

Rebounding, in case you’re wondering, is a fancy word for jumping up and down! Ideally using a trampoline to get that ‘g-force’ which causes more of a gravitational shift, allowing your internal organs to lift, and the muscles and connective tissue to stretch out and therefore become more supple and stronger.

If you don’t already own one, perhaps it’s time to ask Santa for a foam roller? They really are a fantastic tool to help with general mobility and are great to relieve stiffness/ soreness after a workout. There are millions of you-tube tutorials, pinterest pins and fitness pages dedicated to helping you foam roll efficiently, so I won’t go into details here, but it’s definitely worth exploring more. Here’s a good place to start: http://www.foamroll.net/fitness-tips/get-rid-of-cellulite-with-foam-rolling/

One of the lesser-known side-effects of foam rolling is that it can, temporarily at least, help with the appearance of cellulite. Foam rolling is designed to stretch out your body’s soft tissues, especially your connective tissues (aka fascia) to break down any fibrosis or “knots”. Regular, effective rolling will help to restore elasticity and allow freer muscle movement. It’s basically like giving yourself a deep tissue massage.

This massage also helps to stimulate increased blood and lymphatic circulation. And we know that any increase in blood flow to the skin will help maintain a healthier skin as the blood carries oxygen and nutrients to keep the skin cells healthy. Plus a boosted lymphatic system means that you’ll have less build-up of lymph fluid, leaving you feeling lighter and more rejuvenated, as well as experiencing the long-term benefits of a healthy lymphatic system.

If Santa needs some help choosing a roller, then a medium to high-density roller is best. You can start off with smooth rollers, and work your way up to using one with deeper ridges that will really help with that myofascial release and fibrotic cellulite.

Happy rolling!

Is it just me, or is your newsfeed saturated with essentials oils at the moment? It seems half of the bloggers I follow promote DoTerra or another brand of essential oils, which makes me believe that they’re really gaining in popularity. Although essential oils have been used in natural medicine for gazillions of years* (*not actual statistic), it seems that they are becoming more popular than ever before. Which is truly a marvellous thing. As our lives seem to have become more and more saturated with toxic elements, it’s wonderful that we can use these oils as natural alternatives to their more toxic counterparts.

I have by no means the largest collection of oils, but there are a few staples I couldn’t live without. Eucalyptus for laundry & cleaning, tea tree for spots, grazes & shampoo (to keep nits away), peppermint for headaches and making the house smell fresh, ‘Breathe Easy’ blend for stuffy noses etc. etc.

And then there are the oils I use on my body. In my lush body lotion I blend coconut oil with shea butter and a blend of oils I specially selected for their circulation boosting and detoxing qualities. For example, there’s grapefruit, rosemary, cyprus and fennel sweet oils which are known to increase blood & lymphatic circulation to help flush toxins from the skin and relieve fluid retention. Then cinnamon-bark oil, juniper and witch hazel which helps to refine and tighten your skin, leaving it looking refreshed and toned. And the best thing about this wonderful pot of goodness? It’s the smell! It’s simply divine and seems to suit all skin types as everyone that tries it keeps coming back for more.

If you think your body needs a little hydration and TLC, then let me know if you’d like me to put a jar aside for you!

Here’s the thing. Supplements will never replace, or ever be as good, as a decent whole-food diet. Everyone should ideally eat a diet rich in saturated (healthy) fats, grass-fed/free-range/wild caught proteins with a medley of seasonal organically-grown (mostly) cruciferous vegetables and some fruit for special occasions. But, let’s face it, that kind of diet requires a lot of effort and sometimes we fall short. That’s where supplements can help.

Now, bear in mind that some supplements can do more harm than good, so it’s always best to seek out the advice of a health professional (Holistic Doctor and/or Naturopath) before handing over good money for any supplements. The most thorough approach is to be tested for any deficiencies, though most holistic health professionals will be able to ascertain what your body needs from taking a thorough history of any symptoms you may be presenting with and a good look at your diet.

Just to get the conversation started however, I’m going to suggest some here that might be worth looking at.

Let’s start with collagen-boosting supplements as these are key to maintaining healthy, supple skin and should prevent cellulite from worsening.

Many moons ago, when humans began to hunt and then raise animals, they would have eaten every part of the animal. The bits that couldn’t be eaten directly (e.g. bones) would have been simmered to make a bone broth rich in minerals and nutrients such as gelatin, calcium, magnesium, glucosamine, chondroitin, silicon and more. Unfortunately, we rarely eat like this nowadays, so it’s harder to find the same nutrients in a modern diet.

If you don’t have the time (or inclination) to make bone broth at home, supplements like glucosamine, silica and gelatin (collagen powder) can support your skin’s regeneration and maintain its strength and elasticity.

Then there’s Gotu Kola, an ancient herb which is said to be helpful in stimulating the production of protein molecules to increase collagen production. It also boosts blood circulation which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin.

Vitamins can also help you maintain a healthy, glowing skin, for example vitamin B6 assists in relieving excess fluid buildup, vitamin C helps to detox and strengthen the skin and vitamin E is known to improve circulation. Antioxidants such as co-enzyme Q10, black pepper extract and cinnamon root extract are also known to increase circulation and promote healthy skin.

Green tea is high in antioxidants and is believed to improve the body’s ability to burn calories which is useful if you’re trying to lose a few kilos.

Then there are supplements which are often recommended for general good health such as fish oils (ideally fermented cod liver oil for vitamins A and D), and magnesium (glycinate) for normal functioning of cells, nerves, muscles, bones and the heart and particularly useful in chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.

The only thing I’d add to this list are probiotic/prebiotic blends to nourish a healthy gut. But stay tuned for more on that tomorrow!!!

Cranberries have been a go-to for many health concerns for centuries. They originated in North America where Native Americans used them to treat illnesses such as skin infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs). They have the highest concentrations of antioxidants of any fruit (1750 ORAC units per 100gms) and are an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, E, & K, plus folic acid, calcium, magnesium, manganese and fiber (to name just a few).

While they are best known for their protection against UTIs, they also provide powerful antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory benefits that have multiple benefits such as:

• Improved immunity e.g. lowered risk of catching colds & flu
• Reduced risk of some cancers
• Cardiovascular benefits such as lowered blood pressure
• Liver detoxification
• Improved gut health
• Reduced inflammation
• Improved oral health

The key anti-oxidants that are worth a special mention are:

• Proanthocyanidins & Anthocyanins —polyphenols & flavonoids that are associated with prevention of almost every chronic disease in modern times! They’re credited with the ability to destroy free radicals in the body and promote weight loss.
• Cranberry is THE best source of quercetin, a powerful phytonutrient and anti-inflammatory compound that’s been proven to reduce allergies, relieve joint pain and reduce inflammation of the arterial walls.
• Cranberries contain two times more catechin and epicatechin than blueberries. Catechinscan help reduce body fat and epicatechin can stimulate the regeneration and growth of muscle tissue as well as reduce the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer.
• Cranberries powerful antiseptic properties are mostly due to benzoic acidwhich reduces infection and kills the bacteria that causes many UTIs and even acne.

So many benefits! But today, I’m here to talk about how cranberries can help you get rid of your cellulite.

The humble cranberry helps with fat loss by increasing adiponectin, a hormone that’s been proven to lower blood sugar and triglyceride levels, lower insulin secretion and resistance and prevent accumulation of excess body fat.

Because cranberries are a natural diuretic, they help to prevent fluid build up which can make cellulite appear worse.

Cranberries are rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, both of which are vital to the production of healthy collagen and connective tissue, so a regular intake of cranberries will help your skin feel more supple and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Convinced yet? I thought so, but hang on one second, don’t just run out and grab a bottle of Ocean Spray. Many of the shop-bought juices contain more sugar than anything else. Also, because cranberries are pretty intensively farmed, many farmers use toxic chemicals that really ought to be avoided to boost their crops, so it’s best to choose organic. www.harvestime.com.au stocks 1kg bags of frozen berries which should last you some time. You can pop them in smoothies, oatmeal, açai bowls or salsa or just make your own ‘juice’ using a one-to-eight ratio of cranberry juice to water. It’s pretty tart so you may need to add some sweetner. Or pop a few in your kombucha for a second fermentation and a festive fizz!

Now, there’s one small catch, if you use blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin, it’s best not to eat too many, as cranberries could increase their anticlotting effects. Also, although it’s great for UTIs, cranberries can cause a higher excretion of oxalate in urine which could increase your risk of kidney stones.

Which do you reckon wins for best cellulite-busting drink? Kombucha or cranberry juice, or both?

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Eeek, it’s my 21st Tip from my Christmas Countdown. Holy smoley, where has this month gone?

Right, let’s get to it quickly, I know everyone is super, frantically busy!

This is a quick and easy one. Use Apple Cider Vinegar.

Where you ask? Pretty much everywhere, seriously that stuff is almost magic!

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is basically fermented apple juice. Hippocrates, the ancient Greek doctor used it to cleanse wounds. Nowadays it’s proported to help with weight loss, fight diabetes, reduce cholesterol, treat acne and add shine to hair!

Some of its ‘magic’ results from the fact that it’s mostly made up of acetic acid, which improves the absorption of minerals from food. Not only will it improve digestion, the acetic acid also helps to reduce the glycemic index of foods, slowing down the release of sugars into the bloodstream which results in reduced appetite and cravings.

ACV has been scientifically proven to significantly reduce harmful blood lipids that cause high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people who suffer from hyperlipidemia (excess fat in the blood), helping to maintain better overall health. Some studies claim that it can also help reduce body weight and abdominal fat.

It’s also rich in polyphenols which are anti-oxidants that can prevent or slow down cell damage, so it works to rejuvenate your skin at a cellular level, and some people like to dilute it and use it as a toner too (though I’ve never tried it).

It’s best to get a natural ACV, preferably with the ‘mother’ (the other is like the scoby for kombucha, it’s a ‘globby’ looking mix of proteins, enzymes and friendly bacteria. Only catch is, it’s pretty unpalatable. And drinking it neat is not greatly recommended. So, ideally use it in salad dressings or dilute it in water. Some people start the day off with a cup of cooled boiled water with a couple of tablespoons of ACV, a pinch of cayenne pepper and a teaspoon of honey to fire up their metabolism!

I’ve also heard of people making a paste with ACV and honey and applying it straight onto the skin to help with cellulite, but again, I haven’t tested this. If you’re tempted, then let me know how it goes!

Christmas Countdown Tip No. 22 to maintain healthy skin and get the most from your Endermologie treatments:

Avoid excessive sun exposure or wear a natural sun-block to avoid sun damage.

Don’t get me wrong. I love the sun! My pale Irish skin can’t get enough of it. It’s like chocolate, a little does you good, but too much of it all at once is not a great idea. Sunshine is vital for good health, it’s the over-indulgence that causes the problem!

Gentle daily sun exposure is necessary to allow our bodies to produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is credited with providing protection from bone conditions such as osteoporosis as well as breast, colon & prostate cancers, heart disease, depression and weight gain. Some research even suggests that vitamin D deficiency may be a causative factor in autoimmune diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, diabetes, neuromuscular diseases and autism.

Sun exposure can cause short-term problems such as sunburn, dehydration and changes to skin pigmentation. However, sun exposure is also cumulative, which means a lifetime of exposure will increase the risk of cataracts as well as skin damage such as wrinkles, premature skin ageing and several different types of skin cancer.

Excessive sun exposure will reduce the production of collagen and elastin which are key to keeping skin firm and supple. Over time, skin will lose tone and dark spots and wrinkles will appear.

Endermologie will go some way to reawakening collagen production, but ongoing sun exposure will continue to cause damage.

Ideally, 15 to 20 minutes of sun exposure a day is plenty (in fact we only need 10 minutes twice a week for adequate Vit D production), thereafter, it’s best to cover your skin and/or apply sunscreen. Be generous and re-apply after swimming or sweating profusely.

Day 23 and the penultimate tip for a healthy, happy body!

Try to reduce your exposure to environmental pollutants.

OK, so I know the pic is a little dramatic, and it’s easy to get carried away with worry about the amount of pollutants we’re exposed to daily. But let’s face it, nature has always provided it’s fair share of toxicity (mushrooms, snakes, spiders etc.), so there’s no need to panic about some elements that are beyond our control. At the same time I do think it’s best to try and minimise our exposure to toxins wherever we can. Below is a round-up of some of the known toxins we can avoid with conscious purchasing.

Here’s the ‘why”: regular exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as bromine, benzene, formaldehyde and acetone (found in paint, carpets etc) are known to cause headaches, respiratory problems, allergies and even neurological changes. Some of these VOCs (e.g. benzene) are also believed to be cancer-causing. Commonly used air fresheners often contain phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors and are particularly harmful to small children.

Even the products we apply to our skin can often be toxic. Take Nivea for example, which used to be my go-to daily moisturiser. Unfortunately, it’s a blend of semi-synthetic fatty acids and waxes, oestrogenic parabens, contact allergens and penetration enhancers, synthetic fragrances and potentially carcinogenic chemicals. Sure it makes your skin look good for a while, but it’s certainly not doing you any favours in the long-run.

As our bodies store toxins in fat, reducing the amount of toxic VOCs your body is exposed to will, in the long-term, reduce the appearance of cellulite and more importantly, help you to maintain a healthy body.

Here are a few of the worst chemicals to be on the lookout for:

– Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA was first used commercially in the 1950s to harden plastics, and make epoxy resin to line food and drink containers. It can disrupt natural hormones and it’s been linked to heart disease, obesity, diabetes, asthma, behavioral problems in children, depression and obesity, as well as fertility problems such as miscarriage, decreased sperm production in men and early puberty in girls.

BPA is found in the linings of food cans, and it’s used as a coating on receipts, as well as some plastic products and as a flame retardant. As BPA has been banned for some uses (e.g. baby bottles), its replacement; bisphenol S (BPS) is also thought to disrupt normal cell functioning, leading to serious health problems. To minimise your exposure, try to avoid canned foods, choose bottles free from BP-plastics (choosing a glass or stainless steel one instead) and choose not to take a receipt.

– Phthalates are chemicals which are reposted to interfere with our reproductive hormones oestrogen (estradiol) and testosterone, increasing our risk of developing breast cancer and potentially causing damage the to liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system, including birth defects in baby boys.

They’re used in synthetic fragrances, nail polish, paints and many other plastic products e.g. cling wrap, food containers, flooring, shower curtains, synthetic leather etc. So, to avoid them, steer away from anything with a synthetic fragrance, any vinyl products and store food in glass, ceramic or stainless steel containers.

– Flame retardants (PBDEs) These toxic chemicals are carried in dust to our lungs, entering our blood stream and breast milk. They are linked to some cancers, fertility problems and neurolgical and developmental problems in young children, resulting in lowered IQs.

They’re used to make foam, so are found in furniture, carpet underlay, electronics, mattresses, pillows, car seats, strollers etc. To avoid them, try and seek out products that specifically state that PBDEs are not used and any furniture made with foam and encourage your children to wash their hands regularly to avoid ingesting the contaminants.

– Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) PFCs are used to make non-stick pots and pans and act as a water and stain repellent for clothes, upholstery and carpets. They are known to affect thyroid function and potentially cause infertility. To avoid them, stay clear of anything that has Teflon, Gore-Tex, or Stainmaster.

– Triclosan is an anti-microbial found in anti-bacterial soap and some toothpastes. Again, it’s thought to disrupt thyroid function and hormone levels. Studies show that a natural soap and warm water will be just as effective in getting rid of germs.

Check out thelowtoxfox.com.au / The Low Tox Fox for a great range of non-toxic products. Amy, the owner, stocks everything from natural skincare to gorgeous bed linen so makes the transition to low-tox living easy and glamorous!

This is it, the very last tip in my Christmas Countdown.

This is a hard one to name and can be an even harder one to stick to, but it’s necessary for good health (and good looks in my opinion)!

Love yourself

In the words of Buddha “You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.”

It’s so easy in this age of social media and clever advertising to judge ourselves against others, or at least our perception of what other’s lives look like. In order to be really happy we need to accept every part of ourselves; the good, the bad and the ugly. As much as I find it hard to make friends with my cellulite, after years of really not liking my legs, I can now at least appreciate them for their strength.

Now, I’m no guru and I can be my own worst enemy sometimes, but I know how important it is to take time to nourish your relationship with yourself. I sometimes say to my friends if they’re being hard on themselves, to approach any matter as though you’re dealing with your beloved child. If your child said they felt ugly, how would you respond? If your child said they felt inadequate, how would your respond? I reckon it’s a good little trick to remind ourselves how wonderful we really are.

Here’s a little ‘checklist’ for us (yup, me too) to keep ourselves on track!

• Feed your body the food it deserves, even if it takes more time or costs more
• Get plenty of sleep
• Find an exercise that you enjoy and do it regularly
• Make time for the stuff that makes you happy and say ‘no’ to anything that makes you unhappy
• Stop comparing. You’ve got no idea what’s really going on in peoples’ lives and remember social media is just a highlights reel
• Don’t judge. What other people do is none of your business. Just as what people say about you, is none of your business
• Be kind to others
• Invest in friendships. Have at least one good friend who nourishes you and makes you feel at peace
• Explore the world as much as you can, even if that just means taking a different route around the local park
• Care less about how you look and how much you weigh and spend more time reminding yourself about how amazing your body is
• Quieten the critical internal dialogue that tells you you’re not good enough
• Be prepared to make an idiot of yourself every now and then, nobody’s perfect!
• Be grateful for your blessings in life
• Set goals that you want to achieve and work towards them