24 Natural Beauty and Health Uses for Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is an Amazing Health and Skincare product

Coconut Oil is a must have in a healthy eating and natural skin care routine. A must have! This post will highlight some of the reasons for this and show you how I use it my Awesome Naturelles approach to health.

I have been using it for the past twelve months and have grown to love and respect it more and more each day. Love It.

Why is Coconut Oil Awesome for your Health and Beauty?

Coconut oil is nowadays considered to be a good fat because it is made up of MCFAs or medium chained fatty acids. Our bodies love MCFAs because it can break them down much easier than it can the LCFA or long chained fatty acids. 

Neem for Excellent Anti Ageing Skin care

Rain on Neem Leaves

Neem is something new that I have added to my arsenal of hair and skin care treatments. I am amazed by its natural potent properties and it does what it says it will do for such a low affordable price. Three key things that I look for in Awesome Naturelle products: Power packed, natural and affordable! You can eat it, drink it, put in on your skin and it's all good. That's what we call awesome.

Neem comes from a tree that grows across Asia, in India and Pakistan. It has been used for thousands of years by people in these parts and every part of the tree has medical benefits. It is often referred to as 'Village Pharmacy' offering a cure for many ailments and skin conditions.

It's great to do some research because it is often the simplest things in life that carry the most powerful punch. Even better that it will not be a burden on your pockets! Love!

Neem is great for treating skin conditions such as eczema and acne. You can use it in the form of a powder, an oil, you can boil the leaves to use the water and you can also find neem soap, amongst many, many other products. Research and reveal!

The Wonder of Neem

The wonder of Neem lies in its antibacterial properties which help to calm skin  inflammation and irritation if you are having a flare up from acne or eczema. You can make a paste with water and apply it to the blemish or affected area for 20 minutes before washing off.

There are two super hero compounds found in Neem: Nimbin and Nimbidim
Nimbin fights bacteria and fungus while Nimbidim helps fight the pain.
There are many other super hero chemicals present in Neem which work to help repel insects, and do the job of an insecticide and fungicide.
Neem oil is an excellent choice for removing head lice and their eggs. Just massage the oil unto the scalp and leave for several minutes, then rinse out with shampoo.
Alternatively, you can use a neem shampoo for this purpose as well. The oil does not have the most pleasant smell and needs to be masked with some essential oils.

Gorgeous Green Colour that brings healing to your Skin.

Neem in Hair Care

I love Neem powder for my hair care treatments.
At present I mix it with Amla, Aritha and Brahmi powders and leave it on my hair for at least 30 minutes while I do the housework or write a blog post. I often use green tea instead of water for some extra antioxidant power in the mix.
I then shampoo it out and my hair left is soft, dark and curly. Even better for me is that my scalp is clean and without any irritation, which I used to have with shampoos.
I have also noticed that I have much less hair fall which is a huge plus point for me as I am growing my hair.

The antiseptic and anti bacterial properties of Neem help to reduce hair fall, increase hair growth and keep your scalp healthy. Happy!

Neem can also be used as a moisturiser. You can mix the powder with honey for some extra boost for dry fizzy hair and see your hair be tamed. This can also be done for a soothing, moisturising skin care treatment.
Paint on the mixture with a soft brush and be amazed 20 minutes later.

Neem in Skin Care

For an anti ageing skin treatment, you can mix Neem powder with Multani or Fuller's earth for a face mask. This is a great deep clean for your skin and should be done at least once a week. The regenerating properties of Neem help the skin to fight any pathogens below the surface. After treatment your skin is left supple and clean. These clays help to draw out all the dirt and germs that remain on and in the skin.

For oily skin, mix a paste with Neem powder, lemon juice and some yogurt. Leave it on for 15 minutes before washing off. Use rose water as a toner to finish the treatment. This will control the excess oil and prevent acne that often comes with oily skin types.

For pigmentation on your skin, use Neem powder with Tulsi, Sandalwood and rose water. This paste with regular use will lighten the blemishes.

I hope that this will encourage you to try Neem in your beauty care regime.
You can buy it on Amazon or in your local Asian Stores
It really is awesome!

Credit: Photos taken from Photopin

Have you tried Neem yet?
How do you use it?
Share your ideas on Neem with us below.

Easy Homemade Moisturising Facial Oil

3 Oils for Anti Ageing Moisture

When you feel that your skin is a bit flaky and not as smooth as usual, then you know its time to switch up your beauty regime.
This is good because skin is a living organ and can sometimes get used to certain products. The seasons change and so should your skin care as well.

This post is all about a simple mixture that can helps to add moisture to your skin during these times. My skin is combination type and it works for me in my personal routine.

This blend uses three oils:

• Sweet Almond Oil
• Rosehip Oil
• Rose Absolute Essential Oil

First Oil

Sweet Almond Oil is my base oil of choice but you can also choose from:

Argan Oil: Great for all skin types including acne prone,

Grape seed oil: Great for normal, oily, acne prone skin

Jojoba Oil: Great for all skin types

There are several others that you can select so feel free to do more research for your skin type.

This oil should make up two thirds of your mixture in whichever bottle you are using.

Second Oil

This oil carries extra weight as it costs a bit more and brings with it an extra punch of awesomeness to your skin.

You can skip this, if you wish but why deny yourself the extra luxury!

My oil of choice here is Rosehip Oil. Love it! 

Rosehip Oil: It brings a boost of regenerating, firming and anti ageing properties to the blend. 

Carrot Seed Oil: Superb and Awesome for any skin type. My second favorite booster oil.

Sea Buckthorn Oil: Power packed nourishment for ageing and dry skin. 

Fill your bottle with one of these or similar of your choice. If using Carrot Seed Oil, you will only need a few drops of that power oil.

Third Oil

Next choose an essential oil of your choice or rather of your skin's choice.

The list is endless and I'm sure you know many of them already.

Lavender Oil for its healing qualities

Rose Absolute which is very expensive but worth it. You might find cheaper ones mixed with another oil at a lower price. You will be able to use a greater quantity of this type. Read your labels and check your supplier.

Rosemary oil: Great for acne and oily skin

Rose Geranium is another one of choice for ageing skin.

Add up to 7 drops of this oil to your mixture. Check your quantities according to the size of your bottle

Shake your bottle well and leave to stand for a few hours so that it all blends together.

Awesome Tips

Make up small mixtures that would last a week so that you can assess your skin's response and not waste these quality oils. You can have fun seeing which combination your skin loves for this season. Then you can make up a bigger batch to last a month but not more than that.

The smell of the oil should not be too pungent and if you find that it is you can add more base oil to dilute.

Always, of course use this on clean skin.

I have to say that I have found this mixture amazing for my skin.

If I need to pack some extra moisture overnight or on weekends, I use coconut oil or olive oil as an extra layer over this.

My skin says YES, YES, YES.

Disclaimer: The information here is not given in any professional capacity and is shared as a natural skincare enthusiast. Please consult trained experts for your specific needs. 

Have you tried these oils?

How has your skin responded?

The Goodness of Spirulina

Spirulina Explained

What is It?

Spirulina has been described as the most nutritious food source in the world.
It is a natural algae which is power packed with health boosting nutrients.
When produced correctly from non-contaminated water supplies, it is a potent source of protein, iron and minerals, such as Potassium, Calcium and Phosphorus.
The protein-iron mix make it ideal for pregnant women and helpful to those wishing to boost their immune system

Great Health Benefits Too

• It contains Omega 3, 6 and 9. Especially high in 3
• Super high levels of chlorophyll which helps to remove toxins from the blood and give a boost to your immune system
• Extremely high in calcium, up to 26 times more than milk so it would be great for children and the elderly.
• High levels of beta carotene which is converted to Vitamin A, essential for healthy teeth, bones, skin and eyes. 
• Research shows that it may help to increase your fat burn during exercise.

How to Use It 

It can be taken in capsule form or in powder form. At present I have used the powder form in smoothies.
It is an acquired taste which is easily masked with a fruit smoothie but you will still have the  earthy flavour in the background.
There is however no escape from the extremely dark green colour which stains, so care is needed when using it.
I have found that some of it always escapes and the drink usually splashes on the counter. Messy me, I suppose.
I even found that some remains in the corner of your mouth after drinking the dark green loveliness.

Other methods that I would like to try include adding it to vegetable juices.
Some have suggested mixing it with water and having it like a shot as well.

Beyond all this, you can also take the tablets.

So far, I have used a teaspoon daily in my smoothie. The recommendation is to take 2 teaspoons daily but build up to this slowly so that your body can get used to it.
I cannot imagine how dark the smoothie be with two teaspoons of spirulina.
May have to take a water or juice shot at that time.

How do you take it?

Awesome 
This is a great super boost awesome product for extra energy.

Investing in yourself can only be a good thing so let me know when you have tried this and what you think of it?

Homemade Exfoliating Facial and Body Scrubs

Olive Oil a great choice for exfoliation

Brown Sugar and Oil for basic sugar scrub

.

Skin exfoliation is a great method of pampering yourself at home.

Some of us dream of visiting a spa three times a year but the cost of it becomes a major barrier and we lose out on the great benefits it can bring us. No more! 
Help is at hand and you can achieve smooth, moisturised and youthful looking skin right now with a few simple, natural remedies.

Exfoliation is the process where dead skin cells are removed from the surface layer of skin. It helps to control oiliness, pimples,  and scars and leaves you with smooth, renewed dewy looking skin because the new skin is of even better quality and its fresh and new. 

There are things in our cupboards that we can use to create affordable, effective and beautiful exfoliating beauty treatments.
Open those cupboards and have a look! I can only share a few in this post but there are a million others also worthy of mention such as honey, yogurt, egg whites and more.

The main ingredients we shall use here are brown or white sugar and oil.


For the face
Step 1
Clean your face of any make up or oil build up
The Oil Cleansing Method works superbly for this but use whichever suits you best.

Step 2
You can use either brown/white sugar/fine cornmeal or oatmeal ground (which you should grind to smaller grains) 
Oatmeal is a good choice for sensitive skin but for all skin types, do a patch test first
Remember that these measurements are a guide

Add 1 tbsp of your chosen exfoliation product in a bowl
Add 1 tbsp Oil of choice such as Sunflower oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil. Sugar with coconut oil is a delicious smelling combination. 
Mix together

Be adventurous and add 1 drop of essential oils such as rose, lavender or ylang ylang.
Lemon juice can be added to help remove dark spots but be careful not to go out in the sun after this treatment.
You can use any leftover mixture on rough areas such as elbows and knees to use it up. Nothing wasted!

Step 3
Apply to your face in circular motions and enjoy 
There is no need to scrub the skin as it may irritate but be gentle, allowing the ingredients to do their work.
The circular motion helps to increase circulation to the skin, which is often an ignored but much needed part of skin care. 

Take your time and enjoy this part of the cleansing, enjoying the benefits of the amazing ingredients in your kitchen cupboards and how wonderful your skin will feel afterwards. 
Leave it on for 3 minutes if possible but not absolutely necessary.

Step 4
Soak a cloth in warm water and gently wipe off the mixture, allowing the steam from the cloth to open up the pores of your skin.

Keep wiping until all the mixture has gone and there is no oil left on your face

Step 4
Tone with a cotton pad dipped in cooled green tea or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water to completely cleanse and seal your skin

Step 5 
Moisturise with your lotion of choice or a simple oil such as coconut, rosehip,sweet almond or jojoba.

Your skin will love you for it and everyone will notice the new glow.
Do this no more than twice a week so that the skin's natural oils can have a chance to work. 

Some people substitute salt for sugar but be careful as this may be too harsh on your face. 

For A Body Scrub
Sea Salt is great for an all over body scrub using greater quantities, starting with 1 cup of salt with up to 4 tbsp of oil. It is best to add the oil gradually to get it to the consistency that works best for you. You are looking for the balance of oil and salt that glides over the skin allowing you to massage without dragging your skin. 

Step 1
Prepare your mixture

Step 2
Set up the room

Prepare by putting on your favorite music, having a chair or stool handy, spreading towels on the ground and even having a scented candle burning. This is your time so do it in the way that you will enjoy the most. 

Step 3
Wash in the bath or shower
Step out and scoop some of the sugar mix into your hand and apply in circular motions all over.
Rinse off

Moisturise with Shea Butter, Mango Butter, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil or any similar oil to seal in the moisture.

Use Olive Oil or Coconut Oil for moisturising your skin

You should notice that your skin has become smoother and a change in its texture and tone, possibly remaining moisturised for at least a week. This is what you pay for in a spa or salon and now you are easily achieving it in the comfort of your home.
Even better is that you should feel like a million dollars with a spring in your step.
This can be done up to once a week.

The whole body mixes can last in a sealed glass jar for up to 3 months.
You can add a tsp of Vit E oil for extra preservative to be certain. The best method is to make it just what you need at the time.

Try it and tell all your girlfriends to try it too!
Awesome Beauty Tips!

Omega 3 Breakfast Beauty

Variety is the spice of life and based on that today I am trying a new addition to my breakfast oats

I'm always looking to get the best nutrients from my food and the two I am focusing on here are

• Omega 3 
• Fiber

The Linwood mixes work really well for great ingredients, taste and convenience.

I use a lot of the Linwood range of milled flaxseed mixes and recently bought one this one that I've always looked at but left behind on the shelf.

I was inspired to give it a try after a conversation with my son who says that he loves the chocolate range of those quick packet oats you can buy. They may not be the best but if that's his introduction to healthy, I am not standing in his way. So after that conversation I decided to make a more healthy version to see if I could use this new flavour mix

This mix is made up of 86% flaxseed and 10% cocoa. They claim to have processed the cocoa in such a way, that would reduce the fat and maintain a high level of flavanoids, which are the antioxidants we need. These antioxidants give us a healthy heart and maintain our circulation around the body. The mix is gluten free with no added sugar.
Of course there are berries in the mix which are strawberries and blueberries.

The packaging on the mix is full of health information which is very encouraging so that you can gain a full understanding of the product and why you are using it. 
Excellently done.

The mix looks just like it does on the pack as you can see and only one tablespoon is needed.

Flaxseed
Flaxseed should be ground before eating so this pack has done the job for you. The health benefits of flaxseed are that it may contribute to heart health as it is a vegetarian source of heart healthy omega 3 fatty acids. 
On the Livestrong website, it says that 2 tablespoons provides 100 percent of our daily intake of omega 3.

Ground flaxseed is a super supply of dietary fiber, you can get 15 percent of your daily needs from 2 tablespoons. This is great news because fiber helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer which in turn means you eat less and should assist in weight loss.

A good intake of water is also necessary to ensure that you do not get constipated. You can see previous posts on this blog for ideas on how to increase your water intake.
You will find that after you use any of these mixes that it thickens the porridge or your smoothie as that is the nature of flaxseeds. In hair care it is used as a gel because of these properties.

So do I like this flavour in my porridge?
I have to admit that I did not. The reason for that is because I don't think chocolate with oats is my ideal combination at all. 
So I will have to leave my younger ones to enjoy that blend in porridge.

Would I still use it? 
Not this flavour! Just my personal preference, you might just love it. 
I do think that it will be best in a smoothie with bananas and fresh strawberries and that was my intention when I bought it. So I will share when I make that one as I won't waste all that goodness in a pack.
That said, I really do enjoy the other flaxseed mixes that Linwood make, especially the one with brazil nuts and almonds and would wholeheartedly suggest that you try them for yourself.
I will definitely continue to add this to my shopping cart every month.

They are easily available in the supermarkets and health food stores near the oats and cereals. One pack usually lasts for a month so the investment is worth it because you are more than worth it. 
PS They have not paid me to say any of this and I do not benefit financially by sharing it with you. I just find it a great product and thought you should know xx

Have you tried this yet?
How has it helped you?
What is the best way that you use it?
Leave a comment here and on Awesome Naturelles Facebook page
I would love to hear your awesome health stories

Awesome Minty Lip Balm

Awesome Minty Lip Balm

It's time to get creative and make some lip balm. I'm having the girls over soon and decided to make them something to take away other than a full belly!
Here is a recipe I found on Mountain Rose Herbs but there are a zillion on the internet that you can follow with great results.

2 Tbsp Cocoa Butter
4 Tbsp Sweet Almond Oil
2 Tbsp Avocado Oil
1 Tbsp plus 1 Tsp Beeswax
15 drops Peppermint Essential Oil
a few drops Vitamin E

Cocoa Butter in solid form and broken up on spoon; Beeswax Pellets

In a glass bowl or measuring cup, melt the oils, butter and beeswax. Put the glass bowl into a bigger saucepan or pot with water and heat it gently on the stove. This is called the double boiler method. Make sure that no water gets into the oil mixture and keep the heat on a low setting for gentle heating. Use a wooden bamboo stick or spoon to stir.
Once it has all melted, add the essential oil, Vitamin E and stir.
Pour into lip balm pots and leave to set

Melt it all in glass bowl; Pour into lip Balm Pots and leave to cool

This is really minty so next time I would add 10 drops on Peppermint EO. 

I love the consistency and the smoothness of this recipe. 
Easy to make, Awesome to use.
I'm sure the girls will love it!!

Ten minutes later it begins to set 

Try it and let me know what you think.
Luscious Kisses!

10 tips for a Healthy Life Eating Plan

The saying goes
Fail to plan, plan to fail

So if you are serious about your health it's time to plan how best to achieve it. Sometimes we approach our desire to have a healthier life by focusing on what we should cut out rather than what we should include. Let's switch that and focus on what we should really be doing more of to see how we can begin to include the good stuff in our daily diets without it being a huge chore.

Think about what a healthy lifestyle means to you. 

Some thoughts might be:
1) I need more sustained energy to take me beyond mid afternoon. 
2) I need to enjoy what I am eating
3) Eating more fresh or raw appeals to me
4) It needs to fit in with my work and family rhythm.

Visualise your healthy lifestyle and write down the key elements of it. 
You may have many more thoughts to add according to your aims.

10 Tips to build a Healthy Life Eating plan for you

1) Educate yourself on foods that provide more energy such as kale, salmon, spinach, fresh fruit etc

2) Plan your shopping to ensure that you have a constant supply of good things so that you don't slip back to bad habits when hungry.

3) Listen yo your body. Are you a sweet or savoury person? Once you recognise your leanings then you must provide alternatives to satisfy them. The key thing is not to ignore what your body is telling you. Listen.

4)Teach yourself how to make tasty, healthy snacks like granola and keep a supply with you wherever you go. Some quick and easy options are nuts, raisins, home made granola, chopped raw vegetables and herbal teas. Always have something on hand for emergencies.

5) Cook in batches. Don't just cook for one meal, cook a big pot and freeze some for later. This is really rewarding.

6) Shop in bulk for those items that you love and are continually buying. If you love oranges buy a box instead of a bag; if you love strawberries do the same. 
Wash them, juice them and bottle it in your fridge or freezer. You could even freeze lemon juice in ice trays for future use. Strawberries and other soft fruit can be washed, chopped and frozen in zip lock bags in the freezer.

7) Recycle or purchase more suitable storage containers. Keep an eye out in the Poundshops and similar places for affordable ones or shop online for what you need. Glass is always best but start where its practical and use plastic until you can upgrade. Amazon is great for mason jars with lids. When you have your items properly stored, it gives you a buzz when you reach for them. Order in the kitchen!!

8) Set aside time for chopping and storing fresh items. You may want to chop all the fruit for smoothies then put them in individual bags for daily use. You can do the same with vegetables for juicing. I have saved a lot of money doing this as I sometimes found that the bell peppers or strawberries would be off before I could use them. Now I wash, chop and freeze as soon as I buy them.

9) Wash and chop lettuce, kale, cabbage and spinach for use during the week. Even when you buy the ready chopped versions from the supermarkets, take the time to wash and dry them and then transfer them to a ziplock bag in the fridge. It makes cooking, juicing and blending easy when life is busy.

10) You can also buy frozen vegetables for cooking to help you to include them throughout the week

A brief starter pack
Purcahse your oils, seeds and nuts in advance so that you have a variety to use. Eating healthy is not boring!

A starter selection of oils
Extra Virgin or Virgin Olive Oil
Coconut Oil
Hemp or Flaxseed Oil

Nuts and Seeds
Flaxseeds
Sunflower, Pumpkin seeds
Brazil, Walnut and Almonds
Chia seeds

Vegetables 
Cucumbers
Celery
Red bell peppers
Ginger
Carrots
Beet

Fruit for blending and juicing

Always keep a topped basket of fruit with avocadoes on your dining table for easy access and for eye candy. It's the best fast food there is!

A Healthy Life Eating Plan
A Healthy Life Eating Plan could look like this when you first start

• something green in liquid form (juicing) and in solid form (raw, stir fry or steamed vegetables); 
• drink 2 litres water;
• good fats in avocados, seeds, nuts and oily fish; and 
• enjoy a blended fruit smoothie. 

There are examples for smoothies and juicing on this blog in previous posts, so do have a look for inspiration. 

If you follow some or all of these tips, your transition to a Healthy Eating Plan will be much smoother. You will enjoy increased energy, greater concentration and sharpness throughout the day, the week, the month.

Visit me on facebook for smoothie and juicing ideas as well: Awesome Naturelles. 
What other tips do you have?
I love a good share!

How to Stop Eating Processed Foods

Fresh fruit and Vegetables

There have been many food scares over the years with the levels of horse meat being found in processed foods being the most recent in the UK. Nothing wrong with horse meat but when you think you are eating beef, that's another story!
Many consumers are now wary of the supermarkets and food brands that they once trusted to provide quick and easy meals that would keep their families going in the busy periods of the week.
So what can one do now?

Eat less canned foods
These contain a large amount of salt, sugar and artificial preservatives. You can begin to use more pulses like lentils and kidney beans by soaking them overnight and using a pressure cooker to speed up cooking time. Another fab option is fresh fruit which is the best fast food there is or vegetables which require a quick steam or stir fry.

Increase the amount of fresh meat and fish
Visit the butchers and the fishmonger's section and ask questions until you feel comfortable that you are getting best value. They are also very friendly people and will help with cooking tips until you can give some yourself. Compare them with butchers on your local high street but don't write them off as too expensive.
I have found that you actually eat less of fresh food that you do artificial and so the cost pays off in the end.

Consider the amount of white products you consume
White bread, pasta and rice have no value at all but we consume large amounts. Find ways to replace them bit by bit with whole grain alternatives, starting with bread and then introducing quinoa, brown rice and wild rice. Just do it bit by bit.

Change shopping venues
Source fruit and veg in your local markets. They may not look the same or last as long but don't let that put you off as you will find that they disappear fast! 
You don't have to get everything in the big superstores, walk down the local high street and explore new places that sell fresh unprocessed foods. 
The local Turkish stores have an amazing supply of nuts, yogurts and fresh fruit and herbs.
The Indian stores have all the yam and plantain you need. Explore further.  

And now for the junk food
What snacks do you eat at home?
Fizzy drinks, sweets, crisps are all high in empty calories and just feeding an addiction for more of the bad stuff. 
Replace fizzy drinks with sparkling water mixes; use diluted fruit juices and of course introduce water at every turn. Have a lovely jug always filled with water handy. One in the fridge and one out of the fridge to meet everyone's needs. 
Replace crisps and sweets with trays of cut fruit, granola and flap jacks. You can find awesome recipes online and make up batches to last the week. 
Nuts and seeds are a great snack as well.
Don't forget the unsalted popcorn but include some sweet options as well with maple syrup and chocolate.

Be prepared to prep!
In order to eat less processed foods you have to be prepared in advance. Plan your meals and set aside time to cook. I find that I cook up extra on the weekends and freeze portions for during the week. That helps loads. Or you can buy chopped meats that will cook quickly and include vegetables to be a wholesome filler on the plate. 
You also have to be prepared to shop wider from a number of stores which may seem inconvenient but once you know which stores you like and what you want from each you will be amazed how quickly you settle into a new routine.
Planning is key so that you have all the ingredients that you need at hand.

So swapping processed foods for unprocessed foods takes a new set of skills which will only bring huge benefits to your health and your family. Well worth it!

Have you made the switch to unprocessed foods?
I would love to hear you tips.

How to start your day the healthy way

Eating for Health

Organic Oats, Raisins, Pitted Dates, Hemp Oil and Bananas

I'm really working on eating for health because as I enter into the more mature years of my life, quite happily, I might add, I realise I have to work in partnership with my body. Nature has provided all that we need to live in good health while food manufacturers provide all the unhealthy convenient options.

If we take the time to listen to Mother Nature and we will see the wonders of all her untampered ingredients that will assist us to live with renewed energy, good health and greater well being.  
We would be blown away. I know that I certainly am and continue to be as I look, learn and research. 
One habit that I have adopted to ensure I have the best day possible is to have a healthy breakfast. Eat like a king! 

What's a Good Hearty Breakfast Option?
Cocoa Pops
Frosties
All Bran
Kellogs K

I've tried them all and outgrown them and realise that they don't work for me as I need them to. I cannot afford to be ravenous by 11 o'clock in the day. 
It makes me miserable, I cannot concentrate and I'm not giving my best to work, family or anything else. I also find that if I start the day with these cereals I then feel like eating more unhealthy foods as the day goes on. Does that happen to you?

Recipe for A Hearty Breakfast
I never measure exactly so please adjust for your needs.

1/2 cup Organic Jumbo Oats
6 pitted dates chopped
1 Tbsp raisins
Available fruit: bananas (usually 1/2), strawberries, kiwis, blueberries.

Power Pack Punch
1 Tbsp Flaxseed usually Linwoods brand which comes in a range of choice
You can buy nuts and seeds individually, grind them and add them as you choose.

Super Power Punch
I Tbsp Hemp Oil
1 Tsp Coconut Oil

Method
You can use milk, water or milk alternative such as Almond milk
Add enough liquid to cover the oats and microwave for 1.5 or 2 mins maximum

Add raisins, dates and chosen fruit for the day
Mix
Add Flaxseed Mix and your chosen Super Power Punch oil and mix untill everything is blended

Put on some energising music and enjoy the goodness

The variations for this are endless. You can have  fruit based oats or a nut based or a mix of both according to what your body is saying that morning. 

I guarantee that you will be full right up to lunchtime and will only need to drink your water or herbal tea until then. Less snacking in between meals as well!!
You will be able to work with concentration, patience and joy looking forward to a healthty lunch.

Sources
I buy the Oats from Holland and Barrett as this brand does not go all soft and mushy in the microwave which is my personal preference. The rest of the family like the ordinary oats so you need to see which you prefer.
I also buy the coconut oil from them and a little goes a long way.
The Linwoods Flaxseed and other mixes are available from Holland and Barret also. 1 packet lasts a bit more than a month so its good value for  money and for health.
The rest of the ingredients can be found quite easily in the supermarkets and local stores.

I hope this gives you some help if you are looking to introduce a more healthy start to your day.
Go buy the good stuff and get ready for renewed energy and zest for your day.
Let me know how it goes.

A Mother's Day Drink

Energy Burst Smoothie full of the good essential oils, antioxidants and a burst of iron in a glass.
A great way to start the weekend for all the wonderful Moms on Mother's Day.

Omega rich Antioxidants in a glass

Following on from my last post on Hemp Oil, I decided to include it in a special Mother's Day creation smoothie which I tried this morning. As a busy mom, I focused on a drink that would boost energy and give some extra calcium as I don't drink much milk. 
Almond supplies this beautifully.

Ingredients

1 Banana 
A good handful of Spinach
1 cup Almond Milk
1 cup Pomegranate Juice
1 Tbsp Hemp Oil

Blend Away

Awesome Tips
You could add oats, sliced almonds or some protein powder for extra oomph!

This tasted so good that I forgot to take pictures of it after blending. 
The Hemp Oil has a specific taste which just blended in with the other flavours so err on the side of caution when adding until you get the flavour that suits you. 
The pomegranate juice with cherry gave it sweetness as well so no extra is needed.

It was a beautiful mixture of goodness which I recommend.
I am energised and I feel full! 

Let me know what you think!

Nature's Superfood Oil: Hemp Oil

                                      
                                  Hemp Oil

Interesting Information

1 Tbsp contains 94% of your RDA of Omega 3

1 Tbsp contains as much GLA as 6 Evening Primrose Oil capsules

(Info taken from Good Oil Hemp Oil Website)

So!!  Hemp Oil

The word hemp may conjure images of marijuana and its negative side effects and seem to be out of place in a blog about health, but this oil, which is processed in a different way to the leaf,  is definitely worth considering as a significant part of any natural, nutrient packed diet and skin care regimen.
You can rest assured that Hemp Oil is safe and legal and is sold in many supermarkets right up there with olive oil and grapeseed oil.

Why You should Try This Oil

Hemp Oil has a high content of the essential fatty acids that we hear so much about Omega 3,6, & 9. Hemp Oil can assist in increasing the strength of your immune system, counteract aging, fight psoriasis which is a skin disease associated with deficiency of these fatty acids. Often we may find ourselves feeling dizzy, being always tired and catching every flu bug that is around. Have a look at your diet as it may be that you are lacking a source of Omega 3 and 6. Of course you must always consult your doctor first to rule out anything else.

How can you use it?

• As it has a taste similar to walnuts, it can easily be added to pasta, soups, stews, fried rice and other dishes at the end of cooking so as not to lose the nutritional value through heat. Pour on a tablespoon and blend into your dish. 

• Great for supercharging a smoothie. Add a tablespoon as the last ingredient to your blend and feel the difference throughout the day.

• It adds a boost of flavour to salad dressings and mayonnaise and can be used in place of olive oil. You can include it in your regular recipes by swapping it for the other oils you might use. 

• Your skin will love you for it! A small amount can be used in natural skin care products as your nourishing oil when making lip balms, body butters and massage oils for normal, dry and mature skin. It softens your nails as well, keeping the cuticles from drying out. Use a small amount in your facial Oil Cleansing Blend.

• It can also be a power packed addition to natural hair care products for conditioning and moisturising. You can add it to your hot oil treatment or pre poo as well when your hair feels extra dry. 

Benefits

Great help with menopause and PMT times.

This superfood, hemp oil is a great help with hormonal balance. It is the only edible seed that contains gamma-linoleic acid. GLA is essential for the production of the protective and calming prostaglandin PGE1. This helps to regulate hormonal balance and support menopausal health.

Keeps your skin alive and glowing

Hemp oil helps to regenerate the protective layer of the skin. It helps to regenerate and revitalize dry, tired skin especially mature skin. It increases the skin elasticity and its ability to retain water in the skin tissues. So it can help to plump out your skin and reduce the dullness that you sometimes see. 
Due to its makeup of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, hemp oil is very similar to your skin lipids (or fats in your skin) and this is what makes it an excellent natural emollient and moisturizer.

Awesome News

Hemp oil is the only oil to contain Omega 3 and Omega 6 in the ideal ratio of 3:1 which is ideal for the body needs. These fatty acids are not made by the body and must be obtained by food or supplements. Hemp oil provides this in the most optimal way for the body to use and to store

Nature has once again provided us with a Superfood Oil. So next time you see a bottle on the shelf at your supermarket, don't ignore this Superfood Beauty. Now you know!

Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with this product. I just enjoy learning and sharing about natural products that can benefit our health.

Have you tried Hemp Oil?
How have you used it?
Share your finds with us.

Inspiration for the Day

A short one today.

I love the words on this post and I love the colours as well.
  
So they work together to just spark you up to finish what you have started today.

You could just pick one thing and do it right now.

Smile Brightly and see how it just lifts your mood and chases away the blues and the greys as well.

Breathe Deeply Fill your lungs, expand your chest and lift those shoulders. Yes I can see you doing it even now as you read this. Well done!
Allow yourself some more oxygen which will energise you.

You are Awesome as Always

Energy Charged Green Smoothie

Banana Spinach Super Boost Smoothie Recipe

Green Banana Spinach Super Smoothie

Super Charged Ingredients

6 Strawberries
1 Banana
150 ml Almond Milk
1 tbsp Greek Yogurt
Good Handful Spinach
1 Tsp Coconut Oil



Health Benefits 

• Straw berries provide a punch of Vitamin C which is vital in collagen production for healthy, younger looking skin as well as boosting your immune system. 
• Bananas provide both fiber as well as high levels of potassium.   The potassium found in bananas neutralizes any excess sodium in the body which then allows for healthy amounts of calcium to remain to be used for  strengthening your bones. 
• Almond Milk is a great alternative to cows milk for smoothies and is a source of calcium 
• Greek Yogurt packs a punch of protein over regular yogurt and so keeps you fuller for longer. Either type is beneficial to a health diet. 
• Spinach is an Awesome Power Superfood. Low in calories, packed with nutrients such as Vit A and K along with magnesium, protein and calcium. Blend it , Eat it and cook it every day!
• Coconut Oil rates right up there with the best of the best. It helps in weight loss, improves your  metabolism and reduces fatigue to name a few benefits. Maybe I should put some more in the smoothie but the taste is just as powerful as the benefits, so it's up to you

Blend your Green Smoothie and Enjoy a Productive Day

What do you put in your power smoothies?

3 Reasons to go Natural

Why Natural?

When you hit 30 your metabolism naturally slows down by about 5% with each approaching decade. 

At age 35 you are burning 100 calories less than at age 25. 

Between 35 and 45 you are burning around 200 calories less.

If you do not adjust your diet on reaching age 40 and definitely by age 50 to account for the metabolism slow down, you can easily feel your clothes fitting tighter and you begin to feel more and more sluggish. 

Have you noticed this?

It is for this reason that we need to develop a diet rich in "fit" anti-aging foods which I loosely term a natural diet, suitable not just for our consumption but also for the benefit of the largest organ of the body, the skin.

When you think of all the chemicals we put on our bodies in the name of beauty, good health and hygiene, the list is never ending. Shampoo, conditioner, hair serum, hair spray and gel and that's just for the hair before we move onto the face and our skincare.  It works out to be a pretty expensive business and on close examination of the ingredients, we can see that it can be pretty destructive on our long term health. 

Hmm or does it have to be?!!! 

This blog is all about looking at ways to achieve good health from the inside out, using Nature's arsenal of supercharged nutrient laden, chemical free, non genetically modified products. Every herb and every tree is available to us in service to our long term health and inner glowing beauty. You are worth it!

So I find myself exploring a whole new world that is available for our benefit should we but change our attitude and be ready to embrace new things one small step at a time. 
Shop in a different parking lot!
Learn new things, shop in a different way looking for the nuts, seeds, oils, herbs and natural foods that bring out your inner beauty and give you strength to do everything you dream of.

Three Reasons to go Natural
When your friends and family ask you why, you can confidently say:

1. The health returns are worth it
Some may consider the initial outlay to be too expensive but when you consider how much you spend annually on these products and the benefits you get in return, you might find that the shift is worth it for the gains you receive. Its important to do it slowly and consider aspects of your life that you want to change and plan it into your routine until it becomes a habit. The race is not for the swift.

2. I know what I am using in my health and beauty care regime
I enjoy doing research into natural skincare and beauty products that are multi-purpose and beneficial to areas of our health; products which we can just as easily put on our skin as we would use as food. 
Olive oil, avocado, bananas, honey to name a few! 
Just like visiting a new country or having a short break in a city, this is fun. With this approach you will clearly know the ingredients you are using and the reasons why you have chosen them to accompany you on this adventure. 

3. I can create a natural health regime my way
Your health regime is unique and personal to you, so you can make it as simple or as complicated as you want it to be. A shift to natural products is just the solution that your body has been crying out for. You will often find that whenever you introduce a change to your health or beauty care regime your body sings back happy thoughts and moods to you. Then you know that you are on the right track and you can begin to layer in further natural health, skin and beauty care products through trial and error. Of course the opposite applies as well but either way, your body will respond and speak up. 

The importance of research
I am not a health expert just a  health enthusiast parent who needs a never ending supply of sustainable energy to keep ahead of a sporting, sprouting, growing family. Even though some of them are young adults I seem to need more energy now than when they were babies! How did that happen, I do not know. I just cannot afford to be constantly fatigued and tired all the time while life is passing by and waving to me.  

Does this sound like you too? 
Maybe now it's your time to consider the three reasons to go natural and follow the quick 4 step plan.

• Choose one aspect to work on  such as your hair. skin or diet
• Decide what you want to achieve such as rejuvenate your skin or thicken your hair
• Make a list of the new products or ingredients you want to introduce and how you might do it. You could choose to begin juicing green vegetables
• Do it starting with the next shopping trip

I would advise you to do your own research to convince yourself, or not, about any thing I write on this blog. 
You are so unique that what works for one may not work for you in the same way but there is certainly something that works for you.
I hope that you will be encouraged to look into new things highlighted on this blog that are natural and beneficial for your health, skin and beauty care. 
Become an Awesome Naturelle step by step.

Have you gone natural in your skin, hair or beauty care?
What have you found?