Becks Beauty

Dark Circles Under Your Eyes

2010-04-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

Try placing 2 slices of raw potato or cucumber slices directly over your eyes and leaving them there are about 20 minutes. They are best cold so leave them in your refrigerator for a while before using them. They will make your eyes look rested and in good condition.

Another good remedy is Chamomile which has great curative and anti-inflammatory properties. The best way is to soak a cotton pad in a little cold chamomile tea for about 20 minutes and then leave them on your dark circles. Let the chamomile dry off your eyes on its own.

Often unpleasant dark circles can be the result of our lifestyles – not enough sleep, stress, too much salt in our diets, which causes fluid retention. So try to get your 8 hours sleep a day and rest properly and avoid too much salt intake.

Dr Hauschka also has 2 great eye products. 100% natural and organic these products are very popular if you are trying to get rid of those awful black circles around your eyes.

The Eye Contour Day Balm is a therapeutic combination of plant oils, extracts and beeswax which strengthens the elasticity and smoothes wrinkles around your eyes. It will also reduce puffiness and irritation around this delicate eye area and nourish and protect your eyes.

Simply use the balm in the mornings after moisturizing.
This balm is suitable for all skin conditions.

Have a Look at our Prices

Dr Hauschka also has a Daily Revitalising Eye Cream. This daily Eye Cream contains vitamin rich Sea Buckthorn and moisturising Marsh Mallow and Pineapple to regenerate and hydrate the eye contour area.

Its lightweight formula means it can be used immediately before applying make-up.

These are 2 tried and tested products and do work if used regularily.

Have a Look at our Prices

Which Wrinkle Cream?

2010-02-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

Finding the ideal and natural skin care wrinkle cream can be difficult.

There are a lot of creams out there and there are a lot of tricky products that can capture your money and not do anything for your wrinkles. This is a generation that banishes wrinkles and all you see is young and youthful skin. That is what we are here for to give you some tips and tricks to finding the right skin care cream for you!

The ingredients are something that are very important whenever you are choosing the right skin care cream for you. As mentioned previous, there are a lot of creams out there and you just want to make sure that you find one that identifies with you specifically.A good way that you can actually get a good feel for the product before you purchase is by reading all of those reviews that you see out there. Reading reviews by the people that have actually used the product that you may be considering is a great way to truly get an opinion on the topic before you waste your money.

Sunscreen is something that is very important when you are choosing an anti-wrinkle cream. It has been proven that the sun is what can do the most damage to your skin so having sunscreen in your anti-wrinkle cream will attack not only the damage from the sun but the wrinkles that you have!

Herbs are also something that are very, very important to have in any face cream that you have. In recent studies, herbs have been shown to do a lot of magical things to everything from cleaning your face to making your skin baby soft. These particular herbal creams are also extremely natural, which is better for your skin overall.

Natural products are in general, better for you and if you can find a product that has not just natural herbs but natural Vitamin E, all the better! This particular vitamin has been known to improve all sorts of things for your skin and can definitely renew it and make it look that much younger.

Dr Hauschka 100% Natural Regenerating Cream

Now that we have talked a lot about natural skin care wrinkle cream remedies, do your research. Researching is number one and it is certainly something that is going to help you in the long run. Using all of the online tools as well as finding yourself some different options is great. Your skin is unique and you need to ensure that you do have a cream that is going to allow you personalization

Tips for Long-Term Health

2010-01-30T09:25:00.000-08:00

Many of us will make a resolution for New Year to try to stop smoking, loose weight, stop eating chocolate, drinking or whatever. However, by the end of February many of us will have given up on our resolutions.

So rather than make a drastic New Year Resolution why not make a few simple lifestyle changes that could make all the difference to your long-term health and happiness.

Here are just 2 simple tips that you can do.

Eat Your Five A Day
One of the best things we can do to help our long-term health is to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. This daily intake of fruit and vegetables can dramatically reduce your risk of cancer but it can also lower the likelihood of heart disease and slow down the ageing process.

So what is a portion?

• One piece of fruit, eg apple, pear or orange
• One slice of a large fruit eg melon or pineapple
• Two fruit pieces eg plums, satsumas
• One cupful of berries
• Two to three tablespoons of fruit salad, stewed or canned fruit.
• A tablespoon of dried fruit
• One glass (150ml) of fruit juice
• Two tablespoons of fresh, frozen or canned vegetables
• One dessert bowl of salad

Wake Up To Sleep
Try to get seven hours sleep every night. Getting the right amount of sleep every night is very important not only to your health but also it will help boost your immune system and think more clearly.

Some Sleep-promoting Tips:

• Get some fresh air. It is good to get some fresh air some time during the day especially if you spend most of your day indoors eg a short work around your office block at lunch time

• Have a routine. Resolve to go to bed and get up at the same time.

• Wind down. Always have a wind down time, no matter how late you go to bed. Wind down and use the same routine each night eg reading a book that is not over-stimulating.

• Keep your bedtime calm. Make sure your bedroom is dark, not too cold or hot, well-ventilated. Avoid having a TV or computer in your bedroom as this only activates the mind and keeps you up late.

• Reduce stimulants. Avoid taking things that will keep your awake or wake you up in the middle of the night such as alcohol and caffeine. Even eating too late is not a good idea.

• Eat some seeds. An unusual but effective sleep inducer. A handful of pumpkin seeds before going to bed will help your brain to trigger the sleep process.

• Do not lie awake. If you are having a problem sleeping get up and do something quiet and relaxing. Do not overdo it as even 5 minutes of walking around can delay your sleep for a further 15-20 minutes.

• Breathe deeply. Try practising deep abdominal breathing before turning in. It will help shift your concentration away from your thoughts to your breathing rhythm.

Presents For Him

2009-10-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Presents For Him

Maybe you are thinking of gifts for that man or men in your life; whether it be a boyfriend, son, husband, brother, father or dear friend.

It is never easy thinking of something different each year so here are some very good, unique and original ideas for you from

The Present Finder

Difficult Boyfriends:

Finding a gift for a boyfriend can sometimes be very difficult, so on this site you can pick from a wide selection of suitable presents, for the boyfriend in your life making that day even more special. Choose from experience days, movie posters, gadgets, naughty presents, and much more...

See: Difficult Boyfriends category

Difficult dads: Silver plated mussel eaters

A present for your dad, can be difficult to find put together but caters for all tastes, and will help to find the perfect gift. There is a varied selection ranging from traditional keep sakes and unusual gadgets to personalised gifts should provide something for every daddy out there, on his special day.

Groovy grandads:
The ideal present for the man who has everything is challenging but this site offers a varied selection ranging from traditional keep sakes to personalised gifts should provide something for you to select for every grandpa on his special day.

Wine From Your Own Vineyard

See: Groovy Grandads category

And Presents for All Men:

See: Gifts and Presents for Men category

Of if he has a special interest or hobby there are even present ideas for these:

See: Field Sports Presents category

See: Military Presents category

and much, much more..............

The Present Finder

Simple Tips On Using Cleansers

2009-10-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Cleansing properly will help you create and maintain a healthy, clear, youthful and smooth skin. This is even more important if you wear make-up, which if left on the skin, will clog the pores and prevent your skin from breathing.

So the purpose of cleansing is the remove the dirt and grime and excess sebum.

Which Method Is Best?

1 Avoid using soaps as these can be very dry on the skin

2 Splash tepid water repeatedly over your face and then gently pat dry with a towel.

3 If you use make-up a simple way of removing it is to apply a little olive oil or almond oil on to cotton wool and wipe the make-up off.

4 Cleansing creams are the most effective way of loosening make-up and other dirt from your skin so that you can then wipe it off with cotton wool.

Using a Cleanser

1 To increase the efficiency of a cleanser apply a face cloth soaked with warm water to your skin and allow it to rest there for a couple of minutes before cleansing.

This will open your pores and soften your skin,this helping the cleanser to penetrate your skn and remove all the dirt more effectively.

2 Pour the cleanser on to cotton wool and apply it to your face and neck, paying attention to your hairline, where it is common for dirt to build up.

Remember to use a cleanser that is suited to your skin type.

3 After you have lifted off all the dirt you can then rinse it with tepid water.

4 Follow up this cleansing with a weekly facial steam or face pack for normal or dry skin; oily or problem skin every 2 days or by using a facial scrub.

Natural Looking Eyebrows

2009-08-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

Your eyebrows are a a very important part of face as they not only frame your eyes but if they are cared for properly they can add a real sense of style and sophistication to your overall look.

To create the perfect eyebrow you need to:

- Ensure that the space between your eyebrows should be the same as the width of your eye or very slightly wider

- Make sure that your brows should end on the diagonal line from your nostril to the outside of your eye

- Finally, that the brow arch should be at it's highest point on the straight line that passes from your nostril up to the outside of your iris.

Tips:

* Avoid making up a poor eyebrow or poorly plucked eyebrow with a heavy eyebrow pencil. It is always noticeable and unnatural.

* If don’t like your eyebrows visit a beautician for advice and guidance on what can be done.

Can You Get Rid of Cellulite Naturally?

2009-07-17T07:19:00.001-07:00

Looking for a natural way to get rid of your cellulite?

Indeed, there are easy step-by-step plan which you can follow to slim down and have sexier legs, but only if you know the right exercises to get rid of cellulite…

Most women know what it's like to have cellulite. It can ruin the day to look into the mirror and find those dreaded "crinkled-wrinkles" on areas of your legs, especially if they are visible when you wear shorts of bathing suit. While cellulite is not dangerous, it sure is not nice to look at... is it?

You probably won’t have to worry about cellulite problem when you’re younger. However, as you reach the 30's and couple with a busy life that lacks regular exercises, cellulite will start to show up slowly and surely.

Cellulite creams and lotions help, but I feel that they need to be combined with exercise. You need a proven exercise routine to eliminate cellulite permanently, especially on the legs. Such an exercise plan was even featured on local TV show; therefore it does really get rid of cellulite.

As cellulite can appear on various parts of the body, the following type of exercises help address the respective body areas.

Have a steady but long walk puts your body in a continuous rhythmic motion. This benefits not just the leg and thigh areas when it comes to getting rid of those cellulite but also most parts of the body from heads down; neck, shoulders, arms, back and the abdomen. However, how quickly and for how long you should walk, together with your body motions greatly determines if you’ll be just sweating it out or targeting at those cellulite.

Next, jogging at a comfortable but controlled pace will also benefit the whole body including our stamina. This exercise is especially target at cutting down cellulite on the legs. Again, special posture and motion is required to achieve the maximum result.

Swimming is probably one of the best exercises which tones most of our body muscles. Toning of muscles mean loosing of cellulite. It’s also an exercise that does not strain any particular part of the body. Which swim style to practice is also an important factor when it comes to getting rid of cellulite.

Last but not least, calisthenics is probably the most targeted form of exercise for address cellulite issues. This is to put the body into a sustained period of repetitive rhythmic body motions, performed over a period of time consistently and regularly. It is by far the ultimate form of exercise to get rid of cellulite.

The above recommendations may sound like the usual options for a general health well-being. However, if done according to a systematic plan that contains years of research and application specially for conquering cellulite, the result will amaze many sufferers.

For those of you who do not wish to do any regular exercise then there are other alternatives. The changes may not be as quick but can be effective.

Horsetail Extract Decreases Appearance of Cellulite

Horsetail Extract contains the very powerful supplement silica; this is an essential component of your connective tissues, and as such imperative in the restoration of your of your skin's elasticity as well as the decrease in appearance of cellulite.

Horsetail has been used for centuries to strengthen nails, hair and reduce the signs of aging in skin. Skin loses its elasticity as it ages, which is due to a weakening of the connective fibers between the skin cells and cell layers. As these fibers are restored the elasticity of the skin returns and it appears smoother and firmer. This can have a dramatic effect on the appearance of your cellulite, which is visible mostly due to loosening of the skin.

As the condition of skin regresses with age, it also explains why cellulite worsens as you age; you are not actually experiencing an increase in cellulite, you are seeing the results from weaker connective tissue. Horsetail is the most powerful natural supplement to repair the connective tissue and restore your skins natural firmness.

For more information visit Revitol Skin Care: Cellulite Solutions

Caffeine Extract removes Cellulite

Caffeine works as a stimulant as well as a vasodilator; it stimulates the breakdown of fat cells and also widens the blood vessels in the area. As such Caffeine stimulates the circulation and blood flow, which helps remove toxins, fat and excess fluids. When blood is allowed to move into the region the natural metabolic pathways of the body are stimulated and you will also burn more fat naturally. Caffeine also inhibits phosphodiesterase.

For more information visit Revitol Skincare: Cellulite Solutions

Lemon Lemongrass Body Oil

Lemon Lemongrass Body Oil is a natural oil that helps strengthen your body's elasticity and thereby reducing cellulite appearing. It is enriched with Vit E and helps your body function properly. See more ....

The sad truth about cellulite is that millions of women (and a few men) are plagued with this unsightly condition. Although there is no documented case where life was threatened by cellulite, it does affect the self-image and well-being of those who have it.

I would advise that you try both of these suggestions: try some of the natural products available together with an exercise regime. I think you will be surprised with the results and you can wear that swimsuit next summer.

Tips on Applying your Mascara

2009-06-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Learning to apply mascara takes time and practice. If you are starting to use mascara for the first time or showing your daughter perhaps how it should be done here are a few tips to help you so that you have that professional look:

1 The first thing to do is make sure that you have your eye shadow and eyeliner on first so that you avoid powdered eye shadow falling onto the lashes.

Try Dr Hauschka’s Natural Skin Care Kajal Eyeliners (brown & black) which accentuate and highlight the natural beauty and shape of your eyes. They stay vivid and fresh throughout the day.

2 For your top eyelashes don't just comb your lashes, but wiggle the brush from the base of the lashes outwards to give them good coverage.

Natural mascaras give eyelashes a silky, lush and vital colour. Rose and jojoba waxes that make up. Dr Hauschka’s Mascara range protects fine lashes while the extracts of neem and tea leaf fortify. Healing eyebright soothes the sensitive, allergy-prong area around your eye. This mascara is ideal for those who wear contact lenses. Dr Hauschka natural skin care range offers mascara in Black, Brown and Royal Blue.

3 For your bottom lashes try to brush them sideways onto the lashes and away from your face.

4 If your skin is showing between your lashes and your liner smudge the line to fill in the gap.

Some people only do their bottom lashes or even just their top lashes but you will have to try all to see what suits you best.

Quick Beauty Tips

2009-06-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Blister Buster:
Combine infusions of comfrey and witch hazel and dab on to the affected area regularly with cotton wool to heal blisters.

Anti-Wrinkle Remedy:
Mash half a ripe papaya with 2 teaspoons of honey. Apply to the areas of your face that are prone to wrinkles. Leave on for 10 mins. Repeat daily.

Natural Cleanser:
Sweet Almond Oil can be used to take off all make-up including eye make-up

Essential Care - the 'Inside Story'

2009-06-24T07:17:00.000-07:00

Essential Care is not just another organic skin care company but one with a difference. Margaret and her family have been producing hand made bio cosmetics from 2003 but what we have today is the result of a lifelong passion for natural medicine. The studying of aromatherapy and herbal medicine to produce unique products suitable for the most sensitive skins and which are based only on organic herbs, plant oils and natural active ingredients.

The Organic Rose Moisturiser is a luxurious, antioxidant light-textured day-cream which is fully absorbed leaving your skin soft and velvety smooth.

It is a deep moisturiser with shea butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil, aloe leaf, and the essential oil and hydrolat of damask roses.

The cold-pressed plant oils, naturally high in antioxidants of vitamins A & E, and sea buckthorn help counteract the ageing and collagen-destroying effects of 'free radicals' and sunlight. An added bonus is that the moisturiser is also suitable as an eye cream.

Treat your skin to the best that nature can offer - you can find all Essential Care products available at the boutique La Source Naturelle.

**************************

Essential Care's philosophy is simple:

All ingredients must have therapeutic value, as well as making the product a joy to use.

They use herbs and essential oils in therapeutic concentrations for optimum benefit. Plant oils must be virgin and cold-pressed so that they have their full antioxidant vitamin-content intact, so as to actively nourish the skin and protect it from premature ageing.

Their products are free from all potentially unhealthy synthetic chemicals.

They do not compromise the quality and effectiveness of any of our unique products to cut costs.

They continually source natural raw materials to offer our customers the best value for money, highest quality, organic, pure, and ethical products.

They support fair trade, natural farming methods and have an active commitment to the care of the environment.

They seek organic certification of their products, choosing materials which are locally-sourced where possible, from sustainable and renewable resources, free from chemical contaminants, and are either recycled or can be recycled safely.

All the ingredients used, except for the emulsifier beeswax, are plant-derived.

The products are tested only on willing human volunteers.

Essential Care is a European leader in certified organic skincare and distributes in over 12 European countries. They have over 60 products, and offer one of largest bodycare ranges certified to Soil Association organic standards. A very impressive track record!

Celebrities that use their products:

Celebrity facialist, Nuz Shugaa, uses Essential Care products on:

Amanda Seyfried, actress; Mamma Mia (below)
Ashley Lilly, actress; Mamma Mia (below) “the results were immediate”
Rachel McDowall, actress; James Bond (Quantum of Solace), Mamma Mia (above)
Lisa Eldridge, makeup artist - as seen on 10 years younger “your organic philsophy is very refreshing”
Melissa Porter, TV Presenter
Olivia Firth, wife of Colin Firth
Chrissy Iley, 2008 Celeb Interviewer of the Year “My skin has been transformed!”
Sinitta, actress & singer “the products are beautiful and smell gorgeous.”
Lisa Loud, DJ “best facial I’ve ever had”

Actress Denise van Outen says she "can't live without it!" Actress Denise van Outen says she "can't live without it!"

How to get rid of redness in the face

2009-06-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

We all like to have a healthly, glowing complexion so a little rose colour in your cheeks is a good thing however, when your entire complexion is rather too ‘rouge’ something needs to be done. Often an inflammed redness of the skin can be the sign of a sleepless or late night out on the town but it is not very pretty. Also, your redness could be the result of very sensitive skin and maybe roscea or couperose so it’s good to have something that you know will reduce the redness whatever the cause.

Two products that have been tried and tested to combat facial redness are Dr Hauschka’s Regenerating Serum and Dr Hauschka’s Rose Day Cream. These products do not hide the problem of the redness but are designed to tackle your skin’s problem. The Serum is a relatively new product to the Dr Hauschka natural skincare range but has proven to be an excellent product for sensitive skin. Apply this first to your face and to calm your sensitive skin. If you use the Serum daily it will help to reduce any redness over a long period of time. Also excellent is the now famous Dr.Hauschka’s Rose Day Cream which really helps to tone down redness. This can be applied directly on top of the Serum.
Follow this with a mineral foundation and for a perfect look make sure that you apply the foundation evenly to all of your face using a cosmetic sponge or pad. Or if you prefer you could try a cream foundation or a tinted moisturiser. Again these products are natural and will help reduce sensitive skin and help your skins overall appearance. Like any other product it is always best to continue to use them to see the benefits.

Final Tip:

For the face especially I never mix the brands that I use and I always use new products for at least 1 week to thoroughly test them by seeing how my skin reacts.

Dr Hauschka Kits

2009-06-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

Starter kits are an excellent way to try out new products, much better than a one-of try given by a tester, and Dr Hauschka offers a number of starter kits for your face and body. The kits give you often several uses of the products so that you can ‘test run’ them before you buy. They are also great to use when travelling, going for that weekend away or that overnight business trip; and practical as they can be refilled at any time.

There are 4 kits in all:

Dr Hauschka Daily Body Care Trial Kit
Quince Body Moisturiser
Rose Body Moisturiser
Hand Cream
Blackthorn Body Oil
Rose Body Oil
Lemon Bath
Body Wash Floral
Body Wash Fresh

BUY NOW 13.50 Euros

Dr Hauschka Bath Care Kit
Lemon Bath
Lavender Bath
Rosemary Bath
Spruce Bath
Sage Bath

BUY NOW 12.00 Euros

Dr Hauschka Daily Face Care Trial Kit – Dry and Sensitive Skin
Cleansing Cream
Cleansing Milk
Facial Toner
Rose Day Cream
Moisturising Day Cream
Quince Day Cream

BUY NOW 14.50 Euros

Dr Hauschka Daily Face Care Trial Kit - Oily Skin
Cleansing Cream
Clarifying Toner
Normalising Day Oil
Facial Steam Bath
Rejuvenating Mask
Cleansing Clay Mask

BUY NOW 17.50 Euros

Tips for Using the Kits
If you are using these kits for the first time they are more effective if used on their own without mixing them with other brands and you should use the products completely and as indicated in the instructions - this will show you their overall effectiveness.

Argan Oil

2009-06-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Argan Oil is produced starting from the green almonds of the fruit of the Argan tree, which grows only, in the arid and semi-arid regions of south-west of Morocco where it occupies a surface of 28.000 hectares.

The oil distributed is by the Tourza company, working with a co-operative of women from Takoucht. This company was created by Moroccan women to provide help to other women often alone and in difficulty.

It is collected by hand and takes forty kilos of fruits to obtain one litre of oil, about sixteen hours of work.

Argan Oil is therefore a rare, precious oil and has become famous for its many benefits. Its beauty secrets, although simple, have been known for centuries by the women of Morocco who have used it traditionally in the daily care of their care of skin and hair. It regenerates the skin, restarts the vital functions of the cells and the growth process, neutralizes free radicals and it is extremely nutritious.

Its benefits have been recognised worldwide with several scientific studies carried out particularly, in Europe. Its major biochemical components are unanimously recognized for their beneficial effects on health. Rich natural ingredients the oil plays a central role in the body’s cellular renewal.

The 100% Argan oil hydrates, nourishes, regenerates, protects, and smoothes the skin of your face and body. It regenerates cells, strengthens hair and the nails. It will also soften the visible traces of acne, spots, stretchmarks, burns and chicken pox.

Anti-Age Face Care:
Used during the day and night the oil regenerates your skin, moisturises it and prevents early signs of ageing increased by the external factors such as the sun, bad weather, the stress… The Oil is suitable for all types of skins. It is acts wonders on wrinkles, dry and stretched skin.

Nails and Hair Care:
For dry and delicate hair, permed, dull or coloured hair it can be applied as a mask left for 2 hours before shampooing. Your hair will become flexible and glossy. Argan Oil also strengthens breakable or double nails.

Body Care:
When used as a massage oil it hydrates, nourishes and softens the skin. It will also prevent the loss of elasticity.

The Oil has been turned into modern day cosmetic use. You can buy the 100% pure oil, a day cream, a night cream, a shower gel, shampoo, soaps and body scrubs.

Garden Planter Tips

2009-06-04T02:19:00.000-07:00

It is certaintly now the time of the year to be doing your planters if you have not already done them.

You may have been impressed with someone’s garden or yard because of the type of planter pot or plants that they use. It’s easy to be impressed with others who know how to create such a beautiful setup however learning how to do it can be rather challenging.

One of the easiest ways to enhance the look of your house both indoors and outdoors is by your style of planter pot.

Since a planter pot can come in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials you will have to make several choices before you actually buy a planter pot.

Your planter pot should be able to blend into its surroundings. Although this is easier said than actually done it’s the key to having a beautiful setup.

When you are trying to select a Planter Pot that you can blend into its surroundings you can use these tips to help you.

When choosing you’re choosing the material that the planter pot is going to be made out of you need to ask yourself where you’re going to be placing the planter pot. This has a huge impact on what material it’s made out of.

To properly blend it in its surroundings you need to have the right material for the right setting. If you’re planning on using the planter pot indoors you may want to consider using a ceramic pot. On the other hand if you have stone siding for your house you may want to consider getting a stone planter pot.

The next important aspect of your planter pot will be its colour. You want something that will blend in nicely. If you have a garden that has several types of flowers you may want to use a brighter coloured planter pot to bring out the colors of the nearby flowers more.
You should use caution when choosing your colours because if you choose the wrong colour you risk it being gaudy.

Finally you’ll want to keep in mind the size that you’re going to use for your planter pot. Size is also greatly influenced by where you’re going to be placing it. Your size may also be affected by a predetermined plant choice that you have for your planter pot. Use your judgment and choose the right sized planter pot or choose the right place to put the plant based on its size.

Now that you have new knowledge on choosing the correct planter pot you need to put that knowledge to use. You can make a great design inside and outside of your house with a few well placed planter pots. You simply have to take the time and action to do so. Continue learning as much as you can about the secrets behind choosing good planter pots and décor and you’ll be amazed with the end result.

Don’t be afraid to have and use a unique idea with your planter pot. The best designed decors are usually the ones that have a little creativity put behind them. Combine your creativity with these tips to help you achieve a great look to the inside or outside of your house.

Like to share some tips about garden planters?

Tips for Yoga Morning Exercises

2009-05-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Morning Start
The perfect and most advisable time to do yoga is early in the morning. It can be done at almost any time of the day but the benefits you get from your Yoga exercises are fully appreciated and will take into effect when done in the morning. It is one of the best ways to start off your day. You can continue to enjoy the relaxing and rejuvenating after effects of your yoga exercise the whole day.

Your Surroundings
In performing yoga, make sure that the place where you're performing yoga is calm, peaceful, quiet, and well ventilated. It should be free from distractions. Turning off your cellular phone would be a good start. Make sure that no one would distract you. Tell the members of the household that you need to be by yourself for a while. Find a place to do your yoga routine where you can just hear your breathing, or you can hear the breeze running through your body, the chirping of the birds, and whatever that would make you feel relaxed as you do these yoga routines.

Warm up
Before doing the routine, make sure you do some warm up exercises to avoid straining your muscles in the process. Remember that yoga is supposed to be a relaxing experience. If you feel a strain, don't force yourself to do the yoga position. There are advanced and beginner types of yoga exercises. Start from the bottom and work your way up. It is a gradual process and it is a routine. Each day you can try different routines depending on the level of difficulty. If you think you are ready to level up, then you can do so. But remember, take it slow.

Be Organised
Before doing the yoga routine, make sure you have everything you need in place. That way, it would be continuous and you don't need to stop during every exercise. Have a bottle of water nearby, a face towel, your yoga mat or any mat you would need, and other things you might need for your routine.

Breathing Technique
Remember the breathing technique. As you do these yoga routine exercises, do not forget the breathing techniques. Breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. As you start a new position, breathe in and feel every muscle stretch. Hold your breath for a few seconds, breath in and out and as you release, slowly exhale. Know Your Limitation Do not force yourself with the position you might find difficult or you might have problems with, especially those that require muscle strength in your back.

Know your limitations and abilities.
You don't want to have a bruised, strained, and aching body at the end of your yoga exercise. Enjoy Every Minute of It Lastly, always remember that yoga is a routine exercise that intertwines your mind, body, and soul. Enjoy the routine so you would want to do it every day. Remember that yoga is a gradual routine process. You take it step by step. No need to rush.

If you would like some help with your Yoga and Weight Loss have a look at this easy to listen to

YOGA AUDIO BOOK

If you take all these tips in mind during your yoga routine, you would surely feel great at the end of it and it would be the best starting highlight of your day.

Eye Make-up Remover

2009-05-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

The skin around your eyes is very sensitive. They reveal so much about us that it is worth our while spending time each day taking care of them. They are one of our most important organs and they take a lot of wear and tear from modern life – computers, televison screens, reading and make-up.

When choosing a make-up remover for you eyes always choose

· a good brand
· an organic/bio brand
· one that is gentle and effective

So it is essential to invest in the best eye make-up remover. Avoid using soap as this may not only irritate the skin and causes too much pushing and scrubbing

Here are a few that I have already tried, tested and would recommend:

Dr Haushka’s Cleansing Milk

Hempgarden Cleansing Lotion

JHnature Cleansing Milk

Sweet Almond Oil

· All of these products are specially geared to dealing with sensitive skin, easy to use and are very affordable.
· What is even better is that they can be used to remove the impurities on your face, lips and eyes – no need to buy a different make-up remover.
· No need to use water with any of these products

I personally prefer Dr Haushka’s Cleansing Milk as I like the perfume and milky texture of the cleanser.

The purpose of eye make-up remover is to break down the sticky compounds in liner, mascara and shadow as well as daily dirt so that you can gently wipe off the various products without having to scrub at your delicate skin.

How to remove make-up effectively:
· Put a little of the product on a cotton pad
· With the pad gently apply the remover on dry skin all around your eyes.
· Do not force or push the skin with the pad
· With a clean pad gently remove the cream together with the impurities/make-up
· Repeat until the process until the cotton pad is clean.

So go on out and invest in one of these great products!

For more on Eye Care go to Relieving Tired Eyes, Eye Creams, Eye Make-up

Natural Foods

2009-05-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

The expression ‘you are what you eat’ seems to have lost its meaning for many years now. However, our diet and eating habits are very important to our overall well-being.

Certainly if we eat only processed, refined and polluted foods our diet and consequently our health will be affected. Very few people realize that our skin acts as a purifier for our bodies and so if we eat nothing but greasy, fatty, polluted foods then we can not expect to have healthy skin. So what we eat is very important.

I know that it can be very difficult organizing meals and shopping for yourself and your family when you are working, have children, rushing between family, work and home.

However here are a few simple tips on how you can improve the quality of your diet which can be implemented very easily.
· when possible buy food that has been organically produced
· store food in glass or china containers – avoid plastic or cling film – and avoid using aluminium foil wrappings on acidic food such as fruit or fruit cakes
· Steam or stir-fry vegetables to retain their nutrients
· Do not used microwaves for any food containing dairy products as it affects their molecular structure. Also do not heat food covered in plastic wrapping as this can encourage the migration of toxic chemicals into your food.

· Avoid all food additives (eg E numbers and artifical colourings)
· Avoid using aluminium cooking utensils. Use glass, stainless steel or high-quality enamel.
· Do not consume large quantities of salt, refined sugar and animal fats
· Increase your daily intake of fresh vegetables, raw food and fruit.

Today it is not always easy to buy fresh, unprocessed and unrefined foods but the healthier option is without doubt the better one and it does not have to be boring. There are many advertisers selling healthy alternatives and the search for cheaper foods provided by the supermarkets has led to some alarming health outbreaks in recent years.

The naturopathic approach to health is the need to clean out our bodies from its impurities or toxins that may build up and lead to disease. Often this is done by our bowels, bladder and skin but often the toxins that we take in from our diet makes the toxins levels in our bodies too high and can result in illness.

A detoxifying or cleansing diet can help clear out your system and by following the few simple steps outlined above you and your family can make a start to improving your diet and overall health.

Do you have any tips or recipes that you would like to add?

Father's Day

2009-05-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

I know that many of us will be thinking of Fathers Day on 21st June. Most people think of Father's Day as the one day in the year to celebrate your Dad. However, many see it as more than that - a day to not only honour your father, but all men who have acted as a father figure in your life - whether as Stepfathers, Uncles or Grandfathers.

This year, like many of the past few years, it will be my husband, who I and my children will be celebrating on the 21st June.

There are a couple of versions as to who thought of the idea of a Father’s Day but one story is that it originated in 1909 when Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington, first proposed the idea of a "father's day". Mrs. Dodd wanted a special day to honour her father, William Smart, who was a Civil War veteran, and widowed when his wife died in childbirth with their sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to raise the newborn and his other five children by himself on a rural farm in eastern Washington state. When Mrs Dodd grew up she realized the strength and selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent.

So the first Father's Day was observed on in Spokane Washington in 1910 and in various towns and cities across American other people were beginning to celebrate a "father's day."Eventually, it became official in 1966 when President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day.

So the actual beginning of Father’s Day was not all that long ago and the commercialisation of it, as we know of it today with the cards and gifts, did not come until much later.

It’s never easy to know what to do for that someone special on this special day. Breakfast in bed is certainly a good start with a card and special gift. E-cards seem to be the latest trend, but I prefer the personal touch and will be searching for that special card. Or, you could even make your own! Here are a few ideas for gifts:

· toiletries are always a good gift from shower/bath gels, soaps, eau de toilette/colognes, shaving creams
· they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach so you can’t go wrong with chocolates, delicious hand-made biscuits, hamper, or a special family meal
· razors, shaving brushes & shaving sets, watches
· dvds, gadgets, books
· weekend break, golfing holiday, spa holiday
· personalised items such as a t-shirt, cap, bag
· gift voucher for practically anything

The list is really endless.

No matter what you buy for that special Man he will love it as it has been picked by You.

What are you going to do this Father's Day?

The Clothes We Wear

2009-05-15T09:40:00.000-07:00

We should never underestimate the importance of the clothes we wear on our general health and bodies. Obviously the main purpose for wearing clothes is to keep us warm and protect our bodies. Unfortunately, only too often we do not really give much thought to the fabric that is used to make our clothing and the effects that these may have on our health.

It seems to becoming more and more common for people to have mild or even adverse reactions to the fabrics that we are using to make the clothes that we wear and even the detergents that we use to clean them. Synthetic fabrics are widely used but they often prevent our skin from breathing properly. We do need to ask what treatments the raw materials such as cotton and flax go through while they are being processed, what chemicals are used in the treatment of wool (even in sheep dips) or detergents used to clean it.

The result can unfortunately lead to thrush, athlete’s foot, rashes and sores. Instead, we should be wearing more natural materials and better still those that have been organically processed. For example underwear and bedclothes in particular should be of natural fabrics, non-synthetic and non-toxic.
Natural organic clothes are not only better for the body and the environment but they feel better on the skin, they are easy to maintain and are so adaptable to todays styles and fashions – leather belts, handbags, shoes; cotton dresses, underwear, blouses; silk scarves, shirts; beautiful hemp bags, hats … the list is endless.

There are many organizations out there now that grow organic natural products used to manufacture natural, organic clothes. This is the first step in leading a healthier lifestyle – try this simple step and see the difference it will make to you and your family.

Let us know if you know of any great sites that sell organic clothes.

Dover Train Case

2009-05-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Pamper yourself with this lovely Travel Case from Crabtree & Evelyn. A lovely pink coloured Trousse "Dover Train Case" containing 4 lovely items from 'Rosewater' line.

The Train Case contains:
1 Shower/Bath Gel 150ml
1 Body Lotion 150ml
1 Hand cream 100ml
1 Soap 100g

All perfumed with the wonderful, delicate scent of Rose including the famous Rose of Damas - one of the oldest roses, made from an infusion of fresh rose petals and pure water.

A lovely gift or for yourself to use on those weekend breaks or business trips - you can't be without it!

Use Coupon Code:

dovertraincaseblog at the checkout for La Source Naturelle to get an instant 10% discount on the Dover Train Case.

Have you tried any products from Crabtree & Evelyn. What do you think of them?

Becks Beauty: Dr Hauschka: Problems With Dry Skin?

2009-04-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

Dr Hauschka Kits

Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream Reviewed

2009-04-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have been using Dr. Hauschka’s Rose Day Cream for over 20 years and am very happy with the results I experience when using it. As far as I am concerned, this cream is nothing short of amazing. Made from roses and rose hips, as well as other botanical ingredients, this cream soothes and moisturizes my skin like no other cream I have tried.
I am 40 years old and live at a high altitude in Colorado, where it is extremely dry. Add that to a fair amount of air travel, and sometimes my skin gets very dehydrated. I have tried many kinds of facial moisturizers and I do have several favorites. But when I find my skin particularly dehydrated or irritated, I reach for Dr. Hauschka’s Rose Day Cream.
During air travel, I have tried a variety ....
Read the rest of this Review

Dr Hauschka: Problems With Dry Skin?

2009-04-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

Often your dry skin can be the result of:

* harsh weather
* changes between the seasons
* using too many or much moisturizers
* your diet
* ageing process
* the soap that you are using

We all suffer from dry or very dry face skin which can be the result of external factors, diet or facial products. However we do not have to put up with this problem forever. It is merely an imbalance in your skins ability to moisturize itself. So with a daily routine you can have once again healthy, glowing, moisturized skin that looks radiant and feels great.

Whatever the cause we know how unpleasant it feels with your skin feeling tight, stretched and it’s impossible to use make-up effectively.

However this huge problem for many of us can often be easily fixed with a simple use of the right products from Dr Hauschka designed to work with your skin to help it self-moisturize naturally. Here are some suggestions:

1 A soap free facial cleanser Cleansing Cream not only will clean your skin but also will help your skin establish a healthy moisture balance.

Use coupon code: GIFT nc-10 at the checkout for La Source Naturelle to get an instant 10% discount on any Dr Hauschka Products.

2 The Facial Toner will hydrate your skin and improve its elasticity, tighten your pores – all without drying it.

3 The Rose Day Cream Light is great for dehydrated skin and should be used daily.

4 The Rose Day Cream will moisturize your skin and also protect it against the elements that may have caused the dryness in the first place.

5 To help your skin regain its moisture and oil production use the Rhythmic Night Conditioner in 28 day cycles, several times a year.

6 Finally use the Moisturizing Mask from time to time – a great intensive hydrating treatment that will leave your skin deeply moisturized.

A final recommendation to help your skin naturally is to try some mineral supplements from Higher Nature. It is one of the most innovative and well respected natural health companies in the UK, specialising in vitamins, supplements and natural skincare.

Dr Hauschka Great Lashes

2009-03-28T08:26:00.000-07:00

If you have sensitive eyes and looking for natural mascara then this product from Dr Hauschka may give you a wonderful look without the iritations.

It comes in 3 shades of black, brown and blue. The mascara is suitable for all skin conditions and for those who wear contact lenses wearers and those with sensitive eyes.

A natural mascara which gives vibrant colour to the eyes as well as protecting, strengthening and enhances the lashes.

3 Simple Steps to having great lashes.

Step 1: Wiggle the wand left to right at the base of lashes. It's the mascara placed near the roots -- not the tips -- that gives the illusion of length.

Step 2: Pull the wand up and through lashes, wiggling as you go.

Step 3: In this final step, close the eye and place the mascara wand on top of lashes at the base and pull through to remove any clumps.

The Dr.Hauschka Make-up Range was awarded BEST NATURAL MAKE-UP RANGE at the Natural Beauty Awards, 2006.

What tips can you give us about using mascara?

Ready for Summer?

2009-02-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

Although summer may seem like a long time off, now is the time to get your face and body ready for those warm, long days. Our skin needs some extra care and attention after the effects of winter as the cold and wind outside can be very hard on our pores leaving our faces feeling dry, tired and stretched. Even the central heating of our homes and workplaces and then the harsh cold of outside can leave our skin looking lifeless and dull. Over the recent months some of us may have been suffering from redness and inflammation of the face and dirt may have even been building up in our skin’s pores.

With a few simple steps we can help our face’s skin heal itself, find its natural balance and look radiant once more:

Deep Cleansing
Start with a Facial Steam Bath. This will help you get rid of any toxins under your skin. Dr Hauschka’s Steam Bath will open your pores and get rid of any impurities or blackheads, while the Herbal Extracts will also disinfect and soothe irritated skin. You can follow this with a Dr Hauschka Clay Mask for a really deep clean, which will absorb excess sebum and impurities. Your skin will be left feeling relaxed and clean. Both of these products can be used once a week.

Repair
Once cleaned you can then apply a Mask to your face. The Mask you choose depends on your what your skin needs:

To reduce redness, inflammation and help strengthen your skin try Dr Hauschka’s Soothing Mask. L’Occitane’s Ultra Comforting Mask is well-suited for those with sensitive skin. It will immediately soothe and reduce redness and will moisturize your skin all day long. For those of you who prefer a mask fragrance free this is a good choice and it also does not contain colorant, alcohol or preservatives.

To help moisturize and nourish your skin try Dr Hauschka’s Moisturing Mask. It is very nourishing and its ingredients are designed to nourish extremely dry, sensitive or sun-damaged skin. L’Occitane’s Immortelle Cream Mask is great for dry to very dry skins as it will nourish and moisturize your face leaving it feeling comfortable, particularly during very cold periods, and your complexion will be fresh and radiant.

To help bring back life and vitality to pale, dry skin try Dr Hauschka’s Rejuvenating Mask. This will not only calm and soothe your skin but it will also moisturize it and help improve the elasticity of your pores. L’Occitane’s Moisturising Face Mask is a creamy mask, made with organic olive tree extracts, to moisturize your skin and restore its vitality and radiance.

To nourish, strengthen and moisturize your face’s skin try Dr Hauschka’s Firming Mask. This is particularly good for restoring your skin’s elasticity and natural complexion.

Choosing the right Mask for our faces is important but cleansing the face and helping it recover now, in preparation for the months to come, is even more important.

Not only will our skin feel good, and completely clean but spending some time pampering ourselves this time of year is a great morale boaster!

What are you going to do this Spring to help your face?

Hempgarden: The 'Must Have' Handcream

2009-02-01T12:05:00.000-08:00

If you spend time a lot of time in the garden or working with animals, or forever getting your hands wet and dry every day and consequently have chapped, dry or rough skin then you must try this handcream made from Natural Hemp. I tried it only once and found a remarkable difference in my hands for not only were they immediately lovely and soft but they smelt great - not of hemp but from the natural ingredients that have been added. I have now been using it for several months now and still have more than half a pot left. I found that a small quantity goes a long way and within minutes the thick cream has vanished with no greasy trace as it penetrates your hands right away leaving them feeling silky. My teenage daughter who suffers from dry hands, to the point of the skin being raw in parts, has started recently to use the Hemp Hand Cream each night and has found it a great success. The Hemp range of Shower Gels have recently got a great review in 'Vogue' so she is now going to give them a go!

Dr Hauschka Regenerating Cream

2009-01-19T12:49:00.000-08:00

‘THE’ Anti-Age Cream

Dr Hauschka has recently introduced its first Regenerating Cream for mature skin and as I have been a Dr Hauschka fan for years I thought I would give it a try especially as it is for the woman over 40!

This ‘wonder’ day cream like all other Dr Hauschka’s products is 100% natural and the ingredients have been carefully chosen to help the most demanding of skins.

For those of us who may be experiencing the first signs of aging and have been hunting for a natural, pure remedy this smooth, delicately fragranced cream is a Must. The difference it makes to your face can be seen and felt within a week of using it.

Your skin’s texture feels more elastic, softer and more supple. It looks healthier and the cream moisturizes dry, aged skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles making your face feel and look smoother. Even those with sensitive or irritable skin will feel the difference as the best quality vegetable oils such as shea butter and avocado have been added to protect fragile skin.

For me, with rough skin that dries up during the day and having to cope with terrible patches of different shades of redness and obvious ‘crows feet’, I have found this a wonderful product. My family and people I meet through work even comment on my clear, soft complexion, which is a far cry from when I had ‘that ruddy, country look’. I have been using the famous Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream for years, but this Regenerating Cream together with the new Regenerating Serum is simply something else! Why not give it a go – try it for a week and see, and feel, the difference.

Use coupon code: GIFT nc-10 at the checkout for La Source Naturelle checkout to get an instant 10% discount on any Dr Hauschka Products.