‘September Offer’

 

Are you completely frustrated because no matter what you do your weight doesn’t budge?  I know I am… Well I found this article and it made sense to me so I’m sharing it with you too!  You may already know all this, and in a way I do too, but I felt it was good to be reminded… My walk this morning helped me think this way!

 

 

Has your metabolism been running low on cruise control…and you’ve had a real heck of time trying to shift it into high gear to boost your metabolism?

Hopefully, you haven’t resorted to diet pills or some weird one food crash diet…like the Banana diet!  Yeah…really, believe it or not it’s the craze in Japan (of all places!). Apparently green tea is out…it’s all about the bananas.

Well, diet pills and crash diets may work for a short time, but it’s temporary at best, super unhealthy and only perpetuates more yo-yo dieting and worst of all, in the end, it slows your metabolism even MORE.

Why?

Because your metabolism is controlled by your hormones, which are super powerful but also very sensitive.  Which is what you want, because that’s what allows your hormones to do their job in an efficient manner.  BUT, constantly abusing your hormones by going on crash diets and taking harmful diet pills will “burn out” your hormones and make them much less responsive.  It’s like having slow, lazy workers, that don’t get anything done.  Good luck meeting a deadline!

So how do you “fix” your lazy metabolism so you start burning off calories again?

Here’s 3 simple but very effective tips you can implement to “wake up” your metabolism, by making sure that your hormones work optimally.

(1)  Eat a diet low in sugar!  That means eliminating all refined carbs like bread, pasta, rice…basically all grains.  Whole grains are better than  refined grains, but for the sake of optimizing your hormones to boost your metabolism, I recommend completely eliminating grains altogether.  Of course, this also means not consuming any (processed) junk foods, like chips, ice cream, candies and soft drinks (these foods are TERRIBLE for your health).

Instead, stick to eating vegetables and some fruits.  Even fruits I would consume in moderation since they also have higher sugar (fructose) content.  But, you can’t go wrong with vegetables…especially dark leafy green vegetables like spinach and lettuce as well as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale, cabbage, arugula, cauliflower and bok choy.

Vegetables are super nutrient dense and provide your body with anti-aging, anti-oxidant and anti-cancerous properties.  They also optimize your hormonal functions so to effectively help increase your metabolism!

(2)  Eat plenty of quality proteins.  Most people just don’t eat enough proteins.  A major portion of a typical diet comes from refined carbs and as stated above, that completely compromises (slows down) your metabolic functions.

Getting enough protein is essential to building lean muscle and it also increases your satiety level so you get full quicker and for a longer period of time.  Eating protein also takes more energy, so you actually burn more calories by eating protein than any other types of food!  It’s a win-win situation.

Keep in mind though, that not all proteins are created equal.  I highly recommend that you eat quality protein, preferably from animal sources, since they have the highest bioavailability…meaning it gets use by your body the best.  Plant proteins are less bioavailable, but if you combine the right plant proteins, you will be able to get the necessary proteins to support your metabolic function as well.

Either way getting enough protein in your diet is key, along with low sugar intake, to maximize your hormonal functions!

(3)  Perform short bursts of intense activities!

I know that cardio is king in many people’s opinion when it comes to burning fat.  What’s even more effective is doing short bursts of high intensity exercises like sprints or some type of metabolic workouts.

Doing short bursts of high energy activities produces a metabolic deficit that causes your body to continue burning calories for up to 48 hours AFTER your workout is over (also known as the AfterBurn)…this really cranks up your metabolism!

High-intensity workouts are by FAR the most effective way to wake up your dormant metabolism and shift it into high gear to start burning more calories.  Why bother doing long mind numbing cardio, when you can get better results by doing less?

These are simple but very effective tips that you can start today and “fix” your metabolism for good.  Keep in mind that the most “real” solutions are simple, but not necessary the easiest.  Changing your diet and doing the right workouts can seem daunting at first, but the results are well worth the effort.

Be patient, persistent and don’t give up just because you couldn’t do it perfectly the first time around.  It’s like riding a bike, you’re going to fall down a few times before you can get up and ride it for good.  Give yourself some leeway to fall down…just make sure that you get back up and get on the bike again!

Thank you for reading.

Wendy x

 

Acknowledgements: Shin Ohtake – Maxworkout.com

 

 

 

 

Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel Mask is a gentle peel mask designed to clear the complexion, tighten pores and provide an instant appearance of radiance to the skin.

The research team at Caudalie have recognised the full potential of Viniferine, from Grapevine Sap, as a powerful boost to radiance. Research has proved it to be over 60 times more effective than Vitamin C and is now one of their hero ingredients. Titrated at 200ppm, Viniferine brightens and lightens the complexion and provides an anti-dark spot formulation. Natural enzymes from Papaya gently exfoliate the skin to promote cell renewal while Glycolic Acid has a non-irritating peel action.

To give a radiant appearance apply before a night out to prepare the skin for cosmetics. Can be used through out the year – in Summer to balance uneven tan lines and in Winter to brighten a dull complexion.

As with all Caudalie products, Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel Mask contains no paraben, phenoxyethanol, artificial colorings or mineral oils. No animal testing, non-photosensitive, oil free and non-comedogenic.

For all skin types, including the most sensitive.

• 62 times more effective than Vit C for radiance
• Brightens and gives renewed radiance to dull skin
• Minimizes pores and reduces skin blemishes
• Exfoliates the skin in a gentle, non-irritating action
• No paraben, phenoxyethanol, artificial colorings or mineral oil.

 

Twice a week after cleansing.

To get the most out of your Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel Mask use twice weekly on cleansed skin. Apply with fingertips to face and neck, avoiding the sensitive eye contour area. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse off thoroughly. Apply Vinoperfect Day Cream or Night Cream depending on the time of day.

To buy Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel Mask simply pop into the Salon or lick the following link to buy on-line.  

Normal Price £29.00 Offer Price £25.00.  Click here to purchase on-line.

Thank you for reading

 

Wendy x

 

We’re nearing the 1^st anniversary of our most recent website and we’d like to thank everybody that has gotten involved.

Over the past 12 months we have published over 60 blogs full of useful information covering a wide range of health and beauty matters, along with keeping you up to date on our lasted monthly and weekly special offers.

Our blogs and offers are easily accessible and in many cases linked to further useful information.  Some of these are just general informative chit chat, while others are really quite technical skin and well-being related issues.

We intend to continue this theme,  so please let us know if there is anything beauty and well-being you’d like us to be talking about and we’ll ensure theses subjects are covered over the coming weeks.

If you’re interested in our weekly subscribers only offers then please subscribe to our site and we’ll include you in on these very generous promotions.

For the next 12 months we have some lovely new treatments, products and events so please keep an eye on what we’re doing via twitter @wendyohare, Facebook or our website.

Once again, thank you and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Lots of love

Olivia, Stephanie, Caroline, Rosie, Francis and Wendy x

 

Acknowledgement: Picture – conversation by Jason Schultz.

 

 

Some famous people have recently admitted that they sleep with a full face of makeup, sparking outrage from many makeup artists.

A former X Factor and I’m a Celebrity contestant said: “The first thing I do in the morning is take off my makeup from the day before. I’m so lazy – I never do it at night.”

As well as leaving smudges on bed sheets, leaving mascara on overnight can dry out the lashes, causing them to thin and fall out.

Beauty expert’s also warned that sleeping in foundation and powder can create a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in dry patches and break-outs.

“It’s really important to cleanse, tone and moisturise your face each evening to remove any makeup, grease and general dirt which clogs the pores beneath the skin’s surface,” they add.

For women who frequently forget to remove their makeup, semi-permanent options such as lip liner dyeing and lash and brow tinting might be something to think about.

Removing your make-up at night is essential for healthy looking skin, except when it’s been a really good night and we’ve all been there!  So whether it’s at night, which is the best time or first thing in the morning, don’t forget to cleanse.  You can read more about the ‘Ultimate Cleanse’ at our blog Your step-by-step guide to the ultimate cleanse!

Thank you for reading!

Wendy

Source: London School of Beauty and Make-up – Wendy O’Hare

 

 

 

A little of what you fancy does you good – especially if it’s chocolate. Instead of feeling guilty for indulging, you can now feel virtuous, as chocolate according to Dr Sarah Brewer is officially beneficial for health.

Chocolate dates back to the time of the Aztecs. However, modern forms of chocolate combine cocoa paste with cocoa butter, sugar and cream or milk, with a variety of additional flavourings such as vanilla, nuts and liqueurs that may improve the flavour, but may reduce its health value. So lets take a look at some of the pros and cons of eating chocolate at anytime…

 

The Pros:
Antioxidant protection

The reason chocolate gets the ‘thumbs up’ from researchers is because it contains large quantities of antioxidants – chemicals that help to neutralise some of the harmful chemical reactions occurring as part of our metabolism and during exposure to pollutants. In essence, antioxidants stop us going rusty inside. Scientists have found that just 40g of chocolate contains more than 300mg of polyphenols – the same type of antioxidants that give red wine its heart-protecting reputation. And if you like your chocolate dark, you will obtain twice as many polyphenols, similar amounts, in fact, as are found in a cup of green tea. What’s more, the polyphenols present in chocolate are of the super-protective variety known as procyanidin flavonoids. While some of these flavonoids contain just one unit and are classed as monomers, the most protective are those containing two, three or more units, known as oligomers. Yes, you’ve guessed it, chocolate is especially rich in the larger oligomers that can prevent harmful LDL-cholesterol from becoming oxidised and taken up into artery walls.

Research recently published in the British Medical Journal suggested that a daily meal of seven ingredients, which included 100g dark chocolate (along with fish, fruit, vegetables, almonds, garlic and 150ml wine) could cut the risk of coronary heart disease by a massive 76%. The scientists predicted this could increase average life expectancy by six and a half years for men and five years for women. Surprisingly, olive oil was not included, as the researchers felt there was not enough solid evidence to support it as a single ingredient rather than as part of the Mediterranean diet. In contrast, they found clear evidence that eating 100g dark chocolate per day could reduce blood pressure by an average of 5.1/1.8mmHg, which is enough to reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 21%.

The feel-good factor

Eating chocolate makes you feel good. It increases brain levels of several chemicals, including mood-altering PEA (phenylethylamine, related to amphetamine), which produces a mild, confidence-instilling buzz. Chocolate also contains tryptophan – a chemical converted to serotonin in the brain to lift mood and increase euphoria – and theobromine, a stimulant that peps you up. Chocolate is also virtually unique in that it melts in the mouth at body temperature, producing a silky, luscious sensation that adds to its appeal and, according to psychologists, is one of the main reasons why chocolate proves so addictive.

Contains small amounts of caffeine

The amount of caffeine contained in chocolate is around 10 times less than that in the average serving of coffee, tea or cola drinks. In fact, low intakes of caffeine can be beneficial, as they improve fat metabolism, exercise endurance, increase alertness and decrease the perception of effort and fatigue.

The Cons:
Expense

Eating chocolate every day will undoubtedly increase your shopping bill. The BMJ researchers estimated it would cost £3 per week, but that spending more for a premium brand of dark chocolate might be rewarded by improved quality of life.

Calories

Sadly, chocolate packs a lot of calories. Just 100g contains: Milk chocolate 520 kcals, dark chocolate 510 kcals and white chocolate 529 kcals. It does provide useful amounts of micronutrients, however. For example, 100g dark chocolate contains: 33mg calcium (compared with 220mg for milk chocolate), 89mg magnesium, 2.3mg iron, 0.7mg copper, 4mcg selenium and 1.4mg vitamin E.

Glucose swings

Sweetened chocolate contains lots of sugar, producing glucose swings which, as well as encouraging you to eat more, are increasingly linked with the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes. This is another reason why dark chocolate, which contains the least sugar, is better for you than milk and white chocolate. Low carbohydrate chocolate containing sweeteners such as maltitol, which do not affect blood glucose levels, are also becoming more widely available.

Mood swings 

Chocolate that contains a lot of sugar can also cause swings in levels of endorphins – brain chemicals that affect mood. This can, in turn, produce mood swings as well as carbohydrate cravings, one reason why women with pre-menstrul syndrome often crave chocolate before a period, when their endorphin levels are low. Unfortunately, as with addictive drugs, brain receptors eventually become desensitised to the mood-lifting effect of chocolate, so you tend to need more and more to get the same endorphin-raising effects.

Acne

The myth that chocolate can cause acne is not supported by the evidence, which suggests the culprit is hormonal fluctuations rather than dietary components.

Tooth decay

The fermentable sugar present in chocolate has the potential to trigger tooth decay. However, the antioxidants in chocolate may help to offset the acid-producing potential to a certain extent, while the calcium, phosphate and other minerals present especially in milk chocolate may also reduce the harmful effects on teeth.

Including chocolate in your diet

All in all, it seems that, as part of a balanced diet, we might all benefit from eating 100g chocolate per day – but make sure it is dark and expensive!

• Eat it after a meal when you are full and less likely to over-indulge.
• Eating chocolate after a meal means you can clean teeth and floss soon afterwards – perhaps with a chocolate flavoured toothpaste to prolong the pleasure!
• Buy small-sized bars, not family-sized slabs.
• Eat with fresh fruit – the renewed craze for chocolate fondues makes this simplicity itself.
• Let chocolate rest in your mouth for long enough to melt and coat your taste buds and the roof of your mouth to experience the full range of flavours and textures.
• Learn to savour the lingering memory of each bite before immediately devouring the next.

 

 

 

This product is a true skin booster. If your skin has been feeling dull, stressed and dehydrated from a heavy weekend out with friends or that crazy change in weather, apply the product on your entire face (avoiding the eye area) and leave on for 10-15min before rinsing off… or 20min if you need a serious boost to bring your skin back to life!

The formulation is packed with great skin recovery actives which I have categorized to help explain their function in the product.

Agea extract is a fantastic moisturizing and cell activating agent.

The mask is packed with vitamins such as Retinyl Palmitate (Vit A), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vit C), Tocopherol Acetate (Vit E) & Beta-Carotene (a form of Vit A). All working together as anti-oxidants helping to recovery and improve the appearance of the skin. An added bonus to this product is that some vitamins have anti-wrinkle properties and will help against ageing.

Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil Unsaponifiables, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil & Anthemis Nobilis(Chamomile) Flower Oil are wonderful natural plant bio-oils which are used for their conditioning and skin soothing properties.

And lastly

Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Symphytum Officinale Extract, Arctium Majus Root Extract- are all natural plant extracts with anti-inflammatory properties used as skin soothing protectors and really help improve the skin barrier function for a more even complexion.

Our skin always needs a boost once in a while, so grab yourself a tube of Dermalogica Multi-Vitamin Power recovery Masque retail price is £33.50)

 

Thank you for reading.

Wendy x

Source: Mateja Weber – Wendy O’Hare