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TOP TIPS FOR DIY MASSAGE April 14 2013, 1 Comment

Want to give a great massage?

TOP TIPS:
1. Quiet space
2. Music for - relaxation
3. Candles or Oil burner - for ambience
4. Oil (cooking olive oil is fine) - to massage with
5. Essential oils if desired - to add to massage oil
6. Towel to lie on - to stop oil getting on sheets/carpet
7. Drink plenty of water after your massage - to hydrate and eliminate toxins



TECHNIQUES
1. Slow strokes create relaxation
2. Use the whole of the palm when moving over the skin
3. Avoid any pressure on the spine
4. Spend a good 15 minutes warming up the skin before working deeper into the muscle,
     this helps give prolonged relief if there is muscle soreness.



Enjoy the gift of giving..
Nikki xx










IS DRINKING TEA GOOD FOR ME April 14 2013, 0 Comments

Who doesn't love a cup of tea?

I'm a sucker for a great cup of tea. Especially ones where you add milk, I.e: black, white, earl grey and the like. I'm not really talking about everyday supermarket tea, I'm fond of the luxury teas like T2 or Tea Tonic. 





The most common teas:

BLACK - Black tea is the oxidized leaf of the tea bush. It is the same plant as green and oolong tea, but is left to oxidize longer than either of these and so has a different, generally stronger flavor. Black tea is often mixed with other ingredients such as bergamot (orange) oil to create Earl Grey tea, or cinnamon and other spices to create chai tea. In many cultures, black tea is taken with milk, lemon and/or sugar or sweetener as well.

GREEN - Green tea contains huge amount of antioxidants which are great for our insides and are contributors to a glowing complexion. It is well known for it's health benefits and is said to improve cardiovascular health, reduces the risk of cancer and helps with weight lossGreen tea is a huge component in Asian cultures. I prefer to drink a combination of Greentea and Mint or Greentea and Rose which makes it taste better in my opinion. I love all the Heath benefits of Greentea but I'm not fussed on the taste. It contains very little caffeine.


CHAMOMILE - (not technically a tea - often referred to as an infusion) contains calming properties for both the nervous and digestive systems. If taken before bedtime it can help with overall relaxation and sleep. It contains no caffeine. I personally love Twinnings Chamomile and Spearmint (this one is a supermarket one) but its quality and tastes good.


Did you know that just one cup of green tea has more vitamins and antioxidants than eight apples? Enjoyed first thing in the morning Green Tea helps boost the metabolism, increases energy levels and helps to aid weight loss.




Some other teas:
Oolong, Rooibos, White, Peppermint



SOME INTERESTING POINTS

  • Tea can boost exercise endurance. Scientists have found that the catechins (antioxidants) in green tea extract increase the body’s ability to burn fat as fuel, which accounts for improved muscle endurance.
  • The antioxidants in tea might help protect against a broad array of cancers, including breast, colon, colorectal, skin, lung, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, liver, ovarian, prostate and oral cancers. 
  • Tea helps fight free radicals, which can damage DNA in the body. 
  • Tea is hydrating to the body (even despite the caffeine!).
  • Green tea has been found to improve bone mineral density and strength.




  • PARAFFIN vs SOY WAX April 13 2013, 0 Comments




    Why Soy I can hear you say…
    Well let’s start at the very beginning.
    In our modern and ever changing world we have embraced all that is new and ultimately better for us like Wheatgrass, Chai Seeds, Vitamin Water and Soy Milk – trendy to say “Ill just have a Soy Latte” but we don’t always understand why it’s a better choice. Let me shed some light on our good friend Soy Wax and tell some home truths about Paraffin.




    WHAT’S IN YOUR CANDLE?
    Most candles today are either made from Soy or Paraffin.

    ·       Soy wax is derived from soy beans and is a natural and renewable resource; paraffin is however derived from petroleum (crude oil) – a limited resource and therefore not considered eco-friendly.
    ·       Since soy is a bi-product of a natural vegetable source we can be assured that we are not emitting harmful toxins when burning a soy candle, unlike paraffin which could potentially contain many harmful and hazardous toxins – just think about being at the petrol bowser and how strong the smell of petrol is – well your paraffin candle is a bi-product of the petrol making process.

    · Soy wax doesn’t burn as hot as paraffin which has many benefits like burning for longer
    · Soy candles burn on average 50% longer than paraffin
    · Soy candles burn cleaner with virtually no smoke
    · Soy wax is easy to clean up with hot soapy water – so you can reuse your jars

    ·         The list goes on an on….

    HOW DO I KNOW IF IT’S REALLY SOY?
    Sometimes companies can trick you into thinking a candle is 100% pure soy wax when in fact it contains both soy and paraffin. The easiest thing to remember is if it’s a free standing candle that isn’t in a container then it contains some type of other way like paraffin.. Pure soy candles are far too soft and need the support of a glass or metal container.
            
    It’s a personal choice as to which candle you choose to burn, but I’m not taking any chances.. I choose to burn Nash Eco Soy Wax Candles www.nasheco.com.au





    NASH ECO SOY CANDLES
    Nash Eco candles are crafted using re-newable eco friendly soy wax and filled with divine fragrances. Poured by hand into stylish glassware, Nash Eco Candles look gorgeous. They have some amazing  fragrances such as: Green Tea & Lemongrass – French Pear (one of Jaymi’s favourites) – Mocha Latte – Pink Sugar - Mint & Eucalyptus and they are soon to release a Fragrance free candle for those who are sensitive to smell but who still love the ambience of a candle.


    Nash Eco TIPS for caring for your Soy Candle:
    • ·         Create a burn memory – when lighting your candle for the first time, allow the wax to melt all the way to the sides of the container. The first burn should last as long as it takes to reach all the way to the edge of the container. This will give you maximum fragrance and an even burn.
    • ·         Trim the wick – its so important to take the time to snip the wick to about 6-8mm before you re-light your candle. Our candles contain pure cotton wicks which contains no lead.
    • ·         If you do not trim the wick regularly, if the candle is in a draft or is left to burn too long you may get a ‘mushroom’ of carbon on the end of your wick.
    • ·         We recommend you do not burn your candle for any more than 4 hours.
    • ·         Burn your candle on a heat proof plate.
    • ·         Never leave your candle unattended
    • ·         Do not blow your candle out… use a utensil to bend the wick into the melted wax to extinguish and then straighten the wick.  It stops the burning smell that happens when you blow the candle out, it helps re-light the candle next time you burn it.





    5 Fruits for a Glowing Complexion February 11 2013, 0 Comments


    5 Fruits for a glowing complexion



     That fruits are the best medicine is a well known fact.
    We also know that a cup of fruit juice a day is sure to guarantee a clear complexion. How about a massage with a fruit pulp or a fruit facial? Fruit facials have been there for at least a decade now. But with people getting more wary of effect of chemicals on the skin, a majority of them are now resorting to using something from their own kitchen. What better way to pamper your skin than with pure stuff which is free of toxins and not harmful to your skin?
    Besides the fact that they hydrate and rejuvenate your skin, the very smell of a fruit on your face is quite de-stressing. Unlike the chemical beauty treatments, fruits are cost-effective, natural and also bring a visible difference. Here are a few fruits and their properties, choose what suits you best!
    • Banana: This is one fruit that's abundantly available all through the year. We know it's a good source of iron, magnesium and potassium and helps reduce menstrual cramps. The effect of banana on skin too is not something that can be ignored. Bananas are rich in vitamin A, B and E and hence works as an anti-aging agent. A fresh mashed banana facial can do wonders for your skin.

    • Lemon: This is also a fruit of all seasons and almost always finds place in your kitchen. With its vitamin C content, its juice will keep your skin beautiful. A glass of warm water with 1/2  lemon juiced into it on an empty stomach every morning is a great skin cleanser. With its astringent properties, it can be used to lighten the skin tone and also diminish acne scars. Rub the inside of a lemon peel on your elbow remove dark spots. Mix lemon and honey and use it as a natural bleach on your skin. 

    • Apple: Apple's antioxidant properties prevent cell and tissue damage. Studies by nutritionists have shown that apples contain abundant amounts of elastin and collagen that help keep the skin young. Applying a mixture of mashed apple, honey, water and oatmeal can act as a great exfoliating mask on your skin.


    • Orange: Rich in vitamin C that improves skin texture. Like apple, orange too contains collagen that slows skin aging process. Rub the flesh of an orange on your skin to tighten the skin. Like lemon, oranges too help clear skin blemishes.

    • Papaya: The benefits of this fruit on skin is an age old fact. Papaya is rich in antioxidants and contain a special enzyme called papain that can kill dead cells and cure skin impurities. A glass of papaya milk or just applying the flesh of papaya on your skin can do wonders to your skin.

    • Mango: This one is the king of fruits for not just its taste but also for health benefits. The soft pulpy fruit has an amazing effect on skin too. Rich in vitamin-A and rich antioxidants, it fights against skin aging, regenerates skin cells and restores the elasticity of skin.


    Get your fix today.. Get some fruit in your body and on your face

    Nikki xxx




    SPICE UP VALENTINES DAY WITH ESSENTIAL OILS February 06 2013, 0 Comments

    WHAT ESSENTIAL OILS TO USE ON VALENTINES DAY

    With such a romantic day on it's way, it's no wonder i have been asked by some curious clients of mine what essential oils they can use on Valentines Day to spice up their love life.

    As you are probably aware, essential oils can be used in several different ways.. the most common being through burning oils or using them in a massage oil. With both methods we are able to smell the oils which affect our emotions and physical well being.
    Essential oils can also work with us on an energetic level affecting our spiritual mind body side, helping us to link our mind body connection.

    That said what better way to to share some quality time with your special someone. Blend up some aromatherapy and put your tension aside.

    My all time favourite oil would have to be Sandalwood and Black Pepper is another oil i use alot.. Try these blends out in either a diffuser, oil burner or use in massage with a carrier oil such as coconut, macadamia or almond (any vegetable oil will be fine) 2.5% blend for a body massage i.e: 1.25mls or 20 drops of essential oil to 50ml carrier oil. Voila !!!





    ROMANTIC BLENDS

    Blend 1. SANDALWOOD + YLANG YLANG + ORANGE

    Blend 2. ROSE + GERANIUM + LEMON

    Blend 3. JASMINE + BLACK PEPPER + ORANGE



    WHERE DO I BUY ESSENTIAL OILS?

    You can get quality essential oils from your local Health Food Store or shop online; www.seoc.com.au is one of my favourite places or www.aussiesoapsupplies.com.au  dont buy the cheap diluted versions, they not only don't smell as great, they don't have the therapeutic quality which make them work effectively.



    SOME TOP VALENTINE OILS

    Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
    Bergamot is an uplifting essential oil and works to open the heart chakra. Bergamot also has antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic and sedative properties. Its aroma can help to alleviate stress, tension, depression and anxiety.  It can be applied topically or diffused.

    Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
    Geranium is a relaxing essential oil that can help to release negative memories. Its other qualities are that it helps relieve tension, stress and foster a sense of peace and well being. Geranium helps to open the mind to new ideas. Its other properties are: anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, antiseptic, diuretic and insect-repelling. Can be applied topically or diffused.

    Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)
    Long known and used as an aphrodisiac oil, jasmine is uplifting and produces feelings of confidence and optimism. It also has antispasmodic and anti-depressant properties. Can be applied topically or diffused in a room.

    Neroli or Orange Blossom (Citrus aurantium bigaradia)
    Neroli is an aphrodisiac essential oil but is also calming and relaxing, and promotes confidence, courage, peace and sensuality. Its other properties are: anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, anti-infectious, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, anti-parasitic and deodorising. May be applied topically or diffused.

    Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)
    Black Pepper oil has aphrodisiac qualities. It’s both stimulating and comforting. Its other properties are: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic and stimulating to the nervous, circulatory and digestive systems. May be applied topically or diffused. 

    Rose (Rosa damascena)
    Rose is an aphrodisiac oil, stimulating to the mind and helps promote a sense of wellbeing. 
    The rose is univeraslly associated with love, The fragrance of pure, therapeutic grade rose oil is almost overpowering, so if you are going to apply this oil on its own topically you need only a slight dab

    Ylang Ylang (Cananga Odourata)
    Ylang ylang is an energising and uplifting oil that has an influence on sexual energy. It helps balance male-female energies, promotes feelings of self-love and confidence and at the same time is calming and relaxing. Its other properties are anti-depressant, antiseptic and anti-spasmodic. May be applied topically or diffused.

    Sandalwood (Santalum album)
    Sandalwood is an aphrodisiac oil that’s stimulating and grounding. Sandalwood helps open one’s heart while at the same time diminishing one’s egocentricity. In many cultures sandalwood is regarded as a sacred oil. It also has anti-depressant, antiseptic and anti-tumoral properties. May be applied topically or diffused.


    HAPPY BLENDING...
    Go and spread some love

    Nikki xxx