Beautiful Skin Diet

Take a stole through any department store, drugstore, or even specialty store; Chances are the sheer quantity and variety of skin care products promising to cure any and every epidermis related ailment will cause momentary confusion and disorientating. In my skin dry, oily, sensitive...? ahhh, I don't know. Like Bra's a perfect skin care match is hard to determine. Many woman treat the symptoms of their skin problems and not the cause. 

I struggle with dry skin. To combat it I try to keep myself well hydrated. However, when the season change my t-zone will produce shine like a mirror, and begin t slowly cultivate a spectacular collection of whiteheads (not so pretty). In the past I would go on an acne killing spree. I would fight oily skin, which in turn only intensified my dry skin problem. Our skin, and its appearance is a reflection of our health. The foods we eat do contribute to the appearance of our pores. To prevent skin irritation, think holistically and include skin saving nutrients into your diet.

For Overall Healthy Skin: Add Vitamin A, Vitamin A in an anti-oxidant that prevents cellular damage, acne, and premature aging. Vitamin A is found in mango's, spinach, low fat yogurt. 

To Fight Acne: Add Zinc into your diet, consider supplements (25-50 mgs).

To fight wrinkles:  Add fatty acids (omega 3's) to your diet via nuts and cold water fish (salmon). Omega 3's are responsible for healthy cell membranes which help transport nutrients throughout the body. Cell membrane hold water, so the healthier and more hydrated they are the plumber younger looking your skin will be.

For Beautiful skin, think fresh fruits and vegetables, and remember to stay well hydrated. 

A lovely Catastrophe of Prints

My fall fashion wish list has taken on a personality of its own; that of a somewhat schizo print junkie in need of vibrant statement looks mixed and mashes together. 

I'm thinking that either my vision may be a little confused, although I will deny that claim at any mention. This fall I'm going to enjoy every extravagantly vocal and ostentatious look.  I'm seeing in spots, lots of spots. As little girls fantasies come true with a wear anything vibe and  polk-a-dot everything. Polk-a-dots have invaded the minds, um... closets of fashions greatest minds. The runways of Stella McCartney, and Marc Jabobs  were just a few well decorated by dots.

The dots are loud, but lack a ferociousness. The fierce force of  true animal prowess mutes the playful polk-a-dots. Animals, ant their prints are everywhere this fall. The animal kingdom has marked its territory over fall fashion. Dresses, Jackets, jeans, sweaters, leggings, and more are marked by beasts both small and large. From Python to panther, and few birds in between hunting wild prints for your wardrobe shall prove an easy feat. 

A less wicked, and perhaps more animal considerate, print that is pollinating runways is that of a floral motif. Roses, daisies and dandelions are just a few of the colourful additives in the bouquet of fall fashion.

 

   Play with prints, and make believe. Fall is the return of fashion; where moods shift magically as a result of star struck trend fans seeking a print pick me up.  

Enjoy playing dress up.

Tramp vs. lack of motivation

Well friends, the seasons have shifted. Fall is here, and morning are a little bit cool. The thought of getting up and heading straight out the door for a cardio burst is a little less inviting then it was a month or even a couple of weeks a go. It is so easy to loose interest in your fitness goals once the weather changes; it's cold, it's wet, it's messy...etc. There is no reason to be fair weather "sweater," exercisers who stay committed to their fitness goals all year are the exercisers who see and get results. 

Pick a fight, against your lack of motivation; and destroy whatever thoughts are holding you back.

There are so many ways to stay fit and motivated through out fall and winter. Take advantage of seasonal activities and invest it a good pair of running shoes and some home fitness gear. I'm obsessed with the Tracy Anderson Method; which combines a dance inspired cardio workout with a muscle structure workout. It's challenging, and the program delivers results.  Cardio workouts have typically been cursed by boredom; they are repetitive, and  require no mental engagement. Holding the philosophy that cardio is boring will negatively impact your workout. Exercise is a mind and body activity. To challenge your fitness your mind has to be involved. I'm a huge fan of mini trampoline workouts because of the mind/body necessary involvement. Functional fitness aims to train the body in a real world manner, active mental engagement in workouts can help improve mental engagement and pattern recognition in other areas of your life. So go on, get jumping and stay motivated this cold season. 

Remember to always start with a warm up. This will get your muscles ready for work and help prevent workout related pain.

Grab some water, and keep it up.

Great job! Try to incorporate a cardio challenge into your routine at least 5 times a week. 

The Night Circus: a tale of opposition

A Dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.

- Oscar Wilde 1888

The Night Circus, by Erin Morgensten, is a tactical read camouflaged by mystic and the individuals desired to Dream. The story is set on a stage of illusions and impossibility. The circus itself, is not only the setting but the antagonist. "Le Cirque des Reves," (the Circus of Dreams) is a poetic love story; confused in a vicious game of chess between two opposing the force. 

Erin Morgensten charms her words delicately, the novel is as much a dream of illusions as the circus itself. The pages  hide gems of philosophical notions, as common phrases and background information repeats itself through fresh eyes. The only constant in the story is time; an uncontrollable beast. 

In the opening pages we are introduced to: a famed illusionist, and a man in a grey suit. The two characters are in contrast of each other; each representing an opposing view of thought, skill, and manipulation. The two men are the players. The illusionist and the man in the grey engage in a war of philosophy through the training and education of  set opponents. 

The story is not a battle of good versus evil, or black versus white. The story is more encompassing and alludes to the undeniable grey zone of all that is human. The game might be between two players, however the battlefield is generously populated by civilians. The non-battling characters each have a vested interest in the dreams both promised and delivered by the circus. 

Beyond the show, the smoke, the mirrors, and the impossible, the two chosen opponents are introduced and lost in a sea of a deep emotional connection. Erin Morgenstens debut novel is a charming balance of a playful child and fierce seductress. The story reminds me of Hermann Hesse's " The Glass Bead Game," there is danger, and there is love. 

After all, Old stories have a habit of being told and retold. Each Storyteller puts his or her own mark against the words; whatever truth was once present is buried in bias and embellishment. The Night Circus is a fantastic and pensive read, it is that of dreams. Become a Reveur and allow yourself the freedom to become lost to the beauty of the imagination.     

Relaxing with Balls

After a challenging workout, or bad bail, every muscle in my body will ache; for days it seems. I will take an ibuprofen to help reduce the inflammation; but the numb pain will remain constant. Ice helps, but it works at reducing the inflammation, and can, if over used increase muscle stiffness, (when in contact with cold, our muscles naturally tense). The journal of pain reports that 64% of woman experience post work out hurt, with 34% of woman aged 18 and older suffer from chronic hurt. 

Chronic hurt, is pain that persists after an injury has healed. It is commonly linked with arthritis, osteoporosis, cancers, and whiplash. Pain, is our bodies "oh shit, something wrong" signal. In the case of chronic hurt, the pain is crying wolf. 

Often times the pain is a result of muscle tension trigger points being activated by referral muscle tensions. Pain might be felt in one area of the body, as a result of tension in another. The Journal of Pain, recommends balls to ease the tension.

Get your mind out of the gutter. Golf balls, Baseballs, Tennis balls, and volleyballs can reduce muscles tensions by simply lying on them and rolling about. 

Next time you have a nasty ache try these: 

To reduce foot pain, while seated roll your foot over and around the golf ball. The hard surface and small size gets into the meaty areas of the foot helping it to relax.

To reduce lower back pain, lie on your back with bent knees. Place a lacrosse ball on either side of your ribs and the top of your but. Breath in this position for a minute or two, and then try adjusting the placement slightly.

To reduce shoulder pain, lie on your back with a tennis ball between your spine and your right shoulder blade. First hug in your right knee with your left arm. Relax, then hug you left shoulder with your right arm. Relax, and switch sides. 

To reduce neck pain, lie on your back with your knees bent. Place a volley ball under your neck and let you head relax. 

And...my favourite, to reduce calf pain, sit straight against a wall with your legs extended. Place a baseball between your calf and the floor. Roll your leg over it. Feels so good. 

A Nation of Shop-o-holics

Nothing good ever happens past midnight, the so called witching hour. Growing up, I received countless lectures on the dangers of the so called trouble hour. Legend has is it, that a midnight, things change, people change and impulses are mythically heightened. The day no longer belongs to us. What happens though, when the witching hour changes and transforms itself into a daylight intoxication? The heightened impulse of  midnight has found a new time to dominate and a new venue for seduction.

The once; exclusive fashion sample sale, has been moved online and made accessible to any person with a accesses to the Internet and a valid credit card. In the US Internet shopping is a $111 billion industry. Thoutnet.com, net-a-porter.com, ruelala.com, and hautelook.com, are just a few of many online flash sale sites that offer shoppers amazing discounts on high end goods. 

Statistics Canada indicates that most common purchase online are Travel Services, Entertainment products, and Fashion related goods. Flash sale sites, confuse us on the concept of value and price. The massive variance between sale and non-sale items leaves us with a constant feeling of cognitive dissonance (buyers remorse), and an urge to click. The lure, of the sale and the anonymity of online shopping is addictive; there is adrenalin associated with the feeling or believe that you have beaten the system. 

Psychology Today, did an article about the seduction of and appeal of compulsive shopping. The research suggested that the Internet is a strong trigger for compulsive buyers. The variety of products and the ability to purchase on-observed and the instant gratification is the hook; the fear of missing out an amazing buy further compliments the seduction technique of online shopping. 

Over the past five years, with the advance of and mass acceptance of E-shopping, credit card debt has risen. In the US, with a population of 330 million, there are more that 610 million credit cards issues. The average person of age to own a credit card has 3-4, all with a 14% or higher annual interest rate.  It estimated that the average credit card debt in the states is $15,799, and that many card holders use the available finds from one card to pay off the debt on another. 

Consumer protection groups have recently began to lobby against flash sales sites and other online shopping retailers. It is believed that in the near future, online shopping will be accompanied by "responsible shopping," adverts and promotions. 

Weekly Horoscope: Oct.17-23

Good Morning, and Happy Horoscope Day,

 what silly-ness does the week ahead suggest?

(Oct.17- Oct. 23)

 Capricorn:

 What does Uranus mean for Capricorn? Your home scene and important matters with family relationships will undergo revolutionary changes in the next decade. Many of you will change your residence. Others will undergo changes within the dynamics of your family or your relationships to parents. Many of you will also introduce lots of new, high technology into your personal lives or your homes. For sure, family relationships that restrict you or make you feel imprisoned or beholden and obligated beyond your comfort level will end or undergo major readjustments. You ain't gonna be nobody's doormat no more.

Aquarius:

 What does Uranus mean for Aquarius? You're no stranger to the energy of Uranus because this is your ruling planet. This is why Aquarians are independent activists, whistleblowers and strong reformers. (You unique types are all alike.) You'll notice the daily tempo of your life will accelerate - not in a steady way but in an erratic way! Suddenly you're here, then suddenly you're gone. Impulsive short trips and increasing interactions with science, technology, astrology and the occult are likely, because your everyday mental attitudes will change. In fact, your everyday world will change as well. Lots of excitement ahead!

Pisces:

 What does Uranus mean for Pisces? Uranus rules earthquakes, explosions and all things unpredictable. This element of unpredictability will impact your earnings, your possessions and your job in the next decade. Some will quit their day jobs. Some will strike out for self-employment. Others will get involved with technology and new, digital media. But at a deeper level, your values will radically change. You want to break through limitations - be they material possessions you feel are weighing you down, or values that no longer serve your purpose. Some of you will experience windfalls or sudden losses. Stay light on your feet for opportunities that could change your life.

Aries:

 What does Uranus mean for Aries? Bingo! This is big stuff for your sign because Uranus is in your sign for the first time since the 1930s. In the decade ahead, you'll experience the strongest drive for freedom you have ever felt. You'll start to define yourself differently. Others might be appalled at the changes you start to exhibit. You'll explore new ways of being and relating to others. You'll even change your image and wardrobe. All this reflects your desire to be distinctly you. You'll give up old patterns, habits and ways of doing things. "Who cares?" "So what?" Your drive for independence will be scary strong. You want to kick free the restraints and limitations imposed by others -- and even by yourself. "Be gone!"

Taurus:

 What does Uranus mean for Taurus? Well, it will be an interesting ride in the next decade because Uranus is traveling through the part of your chart that rules the unconscious. This part also rules "hidden enemies." (Spooky.) But hey - the unconscious is the tail wagging the dog. Your unconscious affects your behavior, whether you're aware of it or not. Uranus will make you challenge your core-beliefs and your hidden fears. It will "open you up." It might also make you suddenly realize who you can trust and who you can't. Whatever you have suppressed from your conscious mind might suddenly come to you like an epiphany. This will all unfold over the next decade. The end result? You will be more free!

Gemini: 

 What does Uranus mean for Gemini? New and unusual friends! You'll find yourself increasingly hanging out with a new crowd. (Possibly a crowd you once laughed at or dismissed.) ("The suits? No way.") You might join classes, groups and clubs to explore exciting, fresh ideas. You'll be attracted to groups espousing revolutionary ideals. Conversely, you might become disenchanted with the values and methods of friends and groups, especially if they're conservative. No matter who you hang out with, you will feel a stronger need to express your individuality. You will resist any kind of peer pressure. Expect to meet a fascinating bunch of people!

Cancer:

 What does Uranus mean for Cancer? It means your relationships with authority figures will undergo huge changes in the next decade. (We're talking bosses, parents, teachers, VIPS and the police.) If you feel repressed, you'll rebel. But you're also on precarious ground with respect to your reputation and profession. You might act out and fall from grace. (Oh no.) Or you might be suddenly promoted. (Could be anything.) Many will dramatically change their job or field of operation. New technology might woo you into new territory. Definitely get out of unhappy, dead-end jobs on your own terms or it might happen when you have no control. Be gutsy.

Leo:

 What does Uranus mean for Leo? This will be an exciting ride because the areas Uranus will shake up involve adventure and learning, so it will be a decade of exciting growth. Expect sudden opportunities to travel and study. One thing is certain: Down with Dogma! Rigid political and religious views will radically change. If you resist this shift or identify strongly with your beliefs, you could experience disillusionment. Legal encounters are dicey and full of surprises. (Oh, oh.) Unexpected breakthroughs (or set-backs) with publishing, higher education and medicine are possible. You will want to explore new ideas and beliefs and ways of being. Cool!

Virgo:

 What does Uranus mean for Virgo? More than other signs, you will be aware that an old order is passing away to make room for something new, especially in terms of your financial arrangements in the world. You will refuse to be dictated to by "strings attached" arrangements. You want your independence in practical terms. Work to be financially independent. Where you are dependent on others might be vulnerable to sudden change. Sudden changes in your partner's income are possible. Your sex life might change as well. (Whaaat?) You might become involved with someone "different" who broadens your experiences in every way. ("Is it warm in here?")

Libra:

 What does Uranus mean for Libra? The next decade is full of changes because Uranus is opposite your sign for the first time in your life. Partnerships that are restrictive will buckle because you'll refuse to be hemmed in. Many will break up. For you this means freedom. Your feisty attitude could trigger conflict with others as well. It's a fact that healthy relationships constantly evolve as the people within them change. If you go with this flow - all is fine. But if you resist these changes -the results will be dramatic. You need a partner who understands your demands for more freedom or a different arrangement. And vice versa! ("Whaat? You want to stay at my mother's?")

Scorpio:

What does Uranus mean for Scorpio? In the next few years, your big spurts of growth will be work related. For starters, many of you will take the courageous leap to self-employment. For sure, if you're unhappy in your job or you feel oppressed, you will quit or challenge the authority above you. Others will change their attitudes to their work or become increasingly more involved in technology. But there is also an aspect that is health-related. You might explore something high-tech that affects your health. Or you might find if you ignore the desire to get out of a bad job - this will radically affect your health! (A serious warning to consider.)

Sagittarius:

What does Uranus mean for Sagittarius? The lives of many Sagittarians will be changed through children. This can be anything from surprise pregnancies to sudden changes in the lives of your children. Nevertheless, this is an exciting decade for you. Many of you will take up new sports, discover new amusements and go to thrilling places for vacations. (Lucky you - you love to travel!) Romance will definitely be electrified. You might find yourself falling in and out of love very suddenly. (Especially with people who are "different.") In addition, many of you will explore new techniques for expressing creative talents and discovering fresh, new designs for your work. This is the real deal!