Thursday, December 18, 2014

EVENTS: What's Holistically Happening in the D...




As we celebrate the year's end, close out the year in good spirits and health with this events list of natural health/healing events and promotional offers.  

If you have an event or know of an event that you'd like to share, feel free to post it in the comments section below. I wish you much peace, prosperity and most of all love, enjoy!


THURSDAY: Dec. 18, 2014

Detroit: Healing Justice, Healing Services for Black Lives Matter Ferguson Fund, 4605 Cass Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201 -- naturopathic healers and health practitioners will be offering donation based services, treatments and wellness products to Black organizers with BLM and Black, Indigenous and POC community who need support, or a space to grieve and be heard or held in this time.





FRIDAY, Dec. 19, 2014
Exhalation Integrative Wellness Center, 18930 Greenfield Rd, Detroit, Michigan 48235
Enjoy free mini-sessions: massage, acupuncture, cupping, 
reflexology and more! No admission






FRIDAY, Dec. 19, 2014
Eli Tea opens New Tea Bar in Birmingham, 108 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI




SUNDAY, Dec. 21, 2014
Innate Healing Center and Goldengate Cafe Hosts, 18700 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48203
https://www.facebook.com/events/294377990769540/?ref_newsfeed_story_type=regular&ft[tn]=qH&ft[type]=20&ft[qid]=6094042138191955393&ft[mf_story_key]=-1663993254275315650&ft[ei]=AQIojHFRFsCFo-FI2-Vo1EOPPWj7HIL5khYesS-wJ6DQpe_2dgLUNrRe77IuVDjwyJeCdeDi9bEMZAhr5Qck6qMxSz8U69vSZgwzrhSMg07-g1wQZkdNo5VOmTHMqPIridKvpVdmGDqTeCjq6GXWAayDSFLJshA3ppCwKvJwjab9cC4G44x6fpI1hrr0HuMU7jPkGJZG_fWg-HpzMpkhlwIfpx8ZYuA7kjBOnMnGjulF_xJPPLsu3pe_XGNd2a9rqfDGod7J_jTEyF-Eb6bhqFqlhaTxYutNTVf5s5eJPdtUL0aKpsSiRvUHs_Ww6rKrY2MRcyB28PiQC0EpMzjCE9bcRDcnO4H8JfTuuuL-mDkJBtF8SxAszBISculfcmt4IeOGQ41hu9i5bdwmawack2_h07bszNT8ysYi76RMWuS0IW3SRG7OWKr0A0nptZJJTj_ltgxWuyXvS0k9EHvop0c8pq0RVNPvx8lYVjfq_bAicOltzI4dMx6WZ5rLrmmm86DwJp3IGn5hsGu6VEgCCcRIok9ahsUmOMyC2V_MXrZ3WMCEvOyhnr_RHAYKD818z976hurrYtSCe0wlD7TjAZBKeksmRG1GzvjQ66bhyzbADnE0QGabiI3dlULPQmb3qJuJmZZ3WSDFi9YiSx626qFKS86Mc2XG2ivkg8c6U47E4Ps8XmhjnGFnOs2x7UhsqxiwWNrlc6ikuN0MZLuy59ZPKCPn0HeA6XX2C4Q58I8Y4-Iq3Hq3bPpOrbxDUq7HxVwwpDes5ngp99WqX4nJoQmiiJCO6gUIup1Ob6vygPrne9psgqzo15CG1LM2cDxGJ3PkbcTSa80BTWfx6pMGtfjJk_uOHj4fCxA7L82KoGAGc2OVit7mqoE8V_Uh_sYk5KRSjTjBRcxSRBONjQgIDH6dzt2zFcHuLFCtfUmNaBj0ISCqHSjw4xWWR0Isk8xct-DQObfMs9P6ucULMdVRBzDyVveEZeu7x4GJTUAbutv2IB-aWpzQTHNtnBAPtu9XOGxIoT7tzx-4GZRkK3_6pI60r-DrAIN5EGLNwmIN8kTvQ0oiBlEvFowBVtmt0O4q861fnE-5LRvxUodR-eGZEu_KzhJMKDyX392Su6QhEcM1kafHnvw_ZLC95NtvjyK7rCcre7mZhFSoIj493kH4hmqsIZftWC7nvGV75DP0jqiATvzKB4Y9JKxxZqLJATigZTZ0_NE44BDVPnvtyQqgYxv3Kl_wWSu5Y1RDxtis6WRHp5wm9FrJ2s1DvLXUOQSZgT-tUeksazNvXQYDb_q7bMLwLnjoY7GkpIpRWYX-WnoAdxjPtVqafha-SQIkzlGXt2B3LntPRWlBebSxDPLx4blm3sw25VtaXmHds2o9jF7imwJGzuMQSmoZDJhflA6s07oQb7OeZvinAdJd_VwGFd60UIzMHRoIN0NbPHGnCY4dlcrRCCqtf1-az6XUKJIier44pqu6rHRymPMpw2nngWNnmi1m3CpylZnkGQxcMCLQZGGbqoZbi6Ps23-4wPBf2a6MxsvkQYLOKwbQODg9imMtQQsl82098Dw5VMlrOfOU4JMhErgXn2sY-fvLssljU_tIFxr-Q3bw4BGsEnXkKq97DPFTvtWPqK4n13i_okM9ybG9BYuKrlNv2V4V_gUJNdcioTlRoHsyTVgu5gNXCVIdqZ1RZVpwFtqFPkRbHeZUgJ6-wWaZN7tJCSqeTlksPqddrVoJP8yW86HJ1gIfV3z8iX_4euLjNSlgJ_i1QbT73CivskjFhX3EkMu8hFix6LK7qJsSJ8hAP_wvQpLVChDZdtHHeznWiO1R2ncCwte9p2e2troQ2j9KNtI7MvWkiqWu0O0737CJkgc2gY7MUcgCiM-QWmnmI60CnDA6syOdYBXPg4Jpo3U43ZQdGVG7QRetmDCI3UqfzPKemN82rTBQyrWwpRMY6NzJGbc4p__tnyeD8bzk7oPcBLdkCXQ6XiAwjAB_I-oOCk9HgkM91ejxgGhY1C2DQzrhVsSWKRaSCSzRyXkk2Eg7PRb9yJTXYlp1Bugh-rVMgPeyGXI_oy9W17lpTvqRVEF2T4N9vPCBWZjd8Ap3ACH4jcfDah9kYjRye3jrD-qInhhpXy2DBNZXQI5RXXZs5r7Pt2I7mIqtdsW1YteVAvugbshsElZw0knMbdSxf0lZ7Fnapn-nCnlZddp3Svg9XKfpdj41o-BqQ3x9S7vl-u21OmoAQmm6qh8xcu0Zpp_hjQC4qLy05DLL9bPROlHWr9FZj0kxiEBOBumEl00ubtHqWfoUD07oaDMJ2ORHg5uWV5LWKh6AAJU0NhOb-zymwaXP7yxAL5fJD14CsDEr1ZICbcUfH8LlJBqdLECTpRnxyL5QmzZ77nb90rUMZJxMHi_Hx4Xn3H2NSY4PniU8OFH7lKfN9o7NkN_KR5JosJl2QCDXiTQC4RuIulLt5tjJw8FImHy7e02xFuRbUwoymVArdPsYVve9gTWVRgzcvQntogJD_t4geyFAAccejlpX4Mz7UZY9CpwCKHaO7FAOJ1ekL_0pK-lNfxSTghSfpWbxC3hWPkIRLVbuDuUCl4SAt4hwMo10fVsHm4SuK3dF9mA-X-AiSC39ETEPhGKNc9iqGVqlGeOqP1QxyIH6Dg-ZRAbImNy4MppGIn9qNgVVk3ckD3xNOTRcuyiQmMmkHAhDKqNkd7nhsbGBsY0xVyvH8eS9geglUZlW0JhDOLocOHBPk0qc72GfOjiiUJfIGm5B3NXDN4b0IJRwDRsYQEyuZCPS2x3L20cs40Zyn1bGvYDkUb50DNa7wPuimFE-rRy15PGaLarRawP1ALgLIUhSXvkgWHHITBJjrUJOLFO1OPZLgbd7EAhDAGbuez5_rPU3CTJGYMgSvZKXpwkWb6G1zZqgCJF72lZCoA&ft[fbfeed_location]=1&ft[insertion_position]=1&__md__=1



YEAR END DEALS:
Detroit Wholistic Center's Holiday Specials, 20944 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48219




Amour All Naturals, Click Here to order online....






Tuesday, December 9, 2014

8 Alternative Energy Boosters!




Using natural skin products is a step in the right direction; but when you provide your body with added fuel -- like balanced nutrition, vitamins, herbs and supplements -- it helps to not only boost your stamina, but sends it through the roof.

When you’re exhausted, at your wits end and tempted to gulp down an energy drink, try turning to nature instead. Seriously, nature has a bounty of fresh, readily available nutrients to help rev up your energy. The following list is only a handful of what's available out there... by all means, keep researching until you find the perfect combination of foods, vitamins and supplements that best suites you uniquely! Switch it up as needed, and keep in mind that everything (herb, vitamin, supplement, etc.) may react differently (more or less favorable) for each individual and situation.

When trying a new food, product, vitamin or supplement; pay close attention to your body's natural response, as it will give signals as to what is or isn't a good fit. As a general rule of thumb, when in doubt, consult with your doctor or a certified naturopathic practitioner.

In alphabetical order, I present to you a list of 8 alternative energy boosters:

Astragulus – one of the ancient herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. It is an adaptogen, meaning it works to improve your overall health and well-being. It’s one of the few herbs that helps boost immune function while being safe for daily use.

B-Vitamins – The eight most useful B-vitamins – B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12 – help subdue anxiety, improve memory and invigorate the body. Taken in tandem, as B-Complex vitamins, they also help regulate hormones thereby easing PMS and improving mood, enhancing the immune system and increasing metabolism.

Beet Root (powder or the actual vegetable) – this is especially is most helpful for those with low iron, or fatigue as a result of anemia. This root is loaded with iron to help replenish your strength and keep you up and running.

Camu Camu – this Amazonian fruit helps with overall wellness, it’s loaded with the Anti’s… as in this powdered superfood is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral. It’s most touted as one of the highest natural sources of vitamin C, which subsequently boosts energy.



Coconut Water - known as nature's nutrient dense thirst quencher, being that its rich in electrolytes like potassium, sodium and magnesium, needed to assist the proper function of the muscular and immune system. Consequently, it helps to prevent/remedy dehydration, and helps balance the body's fluid levels, resulting in increased vibrancy.

Ginseng (Siberian Ginseng a.k.a. Eleuthero) – Be it American Ginseng, Korean Ginseng, or Siberian Ginseng which is most celebrated for its ability to give the greatest boost. These adaptogenic herbs help to increase stamina and endurance without the crashing aftermath.

Liquid Chlorophyl – chlorophyll is what gives plants its green pigment. Only one molecule distinguishes it from human blood; in chlorophyll the central atom is magnesium, whereas in hemoglobin it’s iron. Because of this similarity, it helps to boost red blood cells, oxygenate cells and supports blood cleansing function all of which helps to restore your zest.

Maca – This rainforest root is most known for its ability to stimulate energy and hormone production. In addition to helping regulate hormones in both men and women, this supplement (taken in powdered form) also helps to naturally increases libido.

BONUS:
Exercise – one of the best ways to boost your energy is to get in motion and often. The more you actually move yourself, (try yoga, tai chi, aerobics, dance, etc.) the more adrenaline you release, which'll help to give you more pep. Just don't forget to quality sleep. Remember all things in moderation and balance is needed, nothing will restore you like a night of shut eye.


Turkey Rhubarb – since nearly 80% of your immune system in your gut, I believe that a good detox regimen prevents your immune system from becoming overworked, and keeps it functioning at its most optimal level. Turkey Rhubarb is the go-to herb for helping with elimination. It should be taken with care (small doses), as its nature’s laxative. Consult a natural health care provider for dosage amounts.


Remember, your holistic health regimen should be customized to best suite you. Adjust according to your allergies or pre-conditions. Check back for more natural energy boosters.

- Avec Amour

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Natural Tips to Remove Razor Bumps Quickly



No one likes razor bumps or the blemishes they leave behind. In some cases they're just a hair away from being flat out disgusting. Whether you're male or female, this post is for you, if the tiny hairs on your chinny chin chin are becoming the bain of your existence. Best of all, many of these recommendations take 10 minutes or less; ummm... just don't use these suggestions all at once:

Antioxidants: razor bumps and the scars they leave behind can cause your skin to look aged prematurely. If you're fighting scars and/or razor bumps; save your tea bags and/or coffee filters for your skin. The tannins – a group of chemical compounds most dominant in black tea creating the color, bitterness and antioxidants – in tea help to tighten skin, reduce inflammation and blemish marks. Steep a tea bag in hot water for 2-3 minutes, and then apply to the skin up to 5-minutes. Repeat this process 2-3 times per week, in the morning and just before bed. If you'd prefer to use used coffee grinds, apply them to the skin at a warm temperature for 5-minutes or less for similar results. You also can place used coffee grinds in a cheesecloth, filter or reusable tea bag.

 Clay Mask: apply a gentle face mask that will nourish skin while drawing out toxins. Your best bet is to use a mineral-rich clay mask, try red or French green clay. Take about a quarter size amount of clay and mix with about a tablespoon of water until it forms a paste-like texture. Rub on skin, then rinse off when clay becomes semi-dry. Avoid mixing clay with metal objects, as doing so will deactivate the mineral properties that draw out toxins.

Oil Cleansing: I've found most luck with black seed oil (NOTE: my skin type is normal-to-dry). However, use the oil that best suits your skin type like: coconut oil, extra virgin cold pressed olive oil or castor oil. It is important to use the right oil for your skin type. Keep in mind, both castor and coconut oil are drier oils and may work better for oily skin types; while olive oil may be a better choice for drier skin types. Pour about a nickel size amount of oil in your hand and massage into your dry face. Wet a face towel with hot steamy water, and then wring out excess water. Once the face towel reaches a tolerable temperature for you (not too hot, but it should remain steamy), gently rub the oil off with your towel, allowing the steam to purge the impurities from your skin. This should leave your skin feeling invigorated and refreshed.

Detox: When it comes to your skin, whole (real) foods will be your best allies, as it helps nourish skin from the inside out. If you're prone to razor bumps oozing puss, not only is it best to keep the area clean, but also beginning a detox regimen may be useful. Start small with a one-day or three-day detox and work your way up to longer duration (go at the pace of your body), plan according to your body type and set of needs. For instance, if you need to eat every two hours, tailor your detox accordingly by incorporating nutrient rich foods or smoothies. The more prepared you are, the more successful you'll cleanse. Consult a natural health practitioner for additional guidance.


PREVENTION:
Clean Razors: use sharp and clean razors for every use. Dull razors are less precise, causing the need to re-shave the same area, weakening the skin and making it more prone to scrapes, marks, bumps and ingrown hairs. Old unclean razors contain bacteria, which transfers to your skin becoming a catalyst for razor bumps.

Cleanse Immediately Afterwards: In the event you've knicked your skin, dab either alcohol or witch hazel on the area to keep it clean. In fact this may be a good rule of thumb whether you've scraped your skin or not.

Moisturize Your Skin: The next course of action would be to keep the skin moisturized. Keep skin lubricated to prevent ingrown hairs and razor bumps. This isn't a fail-proof tip, but helpful nonetheless.


Using the above tips would be helpful, if you're determined to take the shaving route. However there are other natural alternatives, offering less pain than waxing, longer-lasting results and no razor bump after effect: Click Here to read on...




Friday, November 7, 2014

What Is Your Skin Trying to Tell You

Photo by: rubyblossom

Before we proceed, I must state that the skin may react to triggers as a result of a variety of reasons (internal and external causes). Some of these additional factors can be attributed to drug/alcohol/prescription drug use, pregnancy, smoking, environment (i.e. exposure to toxins and hazardous debris), pre-existing disease, hormones, genetics, etc. That's not to say that the following list is any less useful, but it is to encourage you to become more active about your health and rule out some of the probable triggers causing skin reactions.

With that said, here are five common possible skin warning signs:



Acne: this is an indicator that it is time to eliminate and/or reduce some the following food culprits: fried food, processed food, soda and dairy. Eating too much fried food can cause clogged pores, creating toxic buildup that'll inevitably penetrate through the skin as acne. For some, stress also can trigger pimples, in which case this may give you a legitimate reason to chill out.

Puffy Under Eyes: Allergies and inflammation are just two possible causes. Solid rest, a good detox (do your due diligence and select the best detox that works best for you), drinking half your body weight in ounces of water to help flush under-eye poof. Click here to find out, exactly, how much water you should drink per day. Externally: a puffy eye reducing regimen would help, which can include: cucumbers, moisturizing or placing cold tea bags on your eyes.

Dark Circles: Because the skin around the eyes are so sensitive, dark circles can be an indicator of a variety of things, including: dilated blood vessels (busted capillaries) as a result of excessively rubbing the eyes, inadequate sleep, malnutrition, emotional distress, fatigue, vitamin deficiency, allergies. Some natural ways to restore brightness around the eyes including, using cucumbers, gentle under-eye massage, coffee grinds and of course sleep... you know what they say, "the best things in life are free!"

Dry Skin: In most instances dry skin (non-clinical of course) is a sign of dehydration, exposure to cold, dry winter weather, skipping the moisturizer, and/or using harsh body soap. Address this naturally by selecting the moisturizer most suitable to your skin type, bundle up during cold months so as not to strip the natural oils from your skin from chilly weather, use a gentle and/or natural body soap, drink plenty water and eat the proper nutrients -- especially those rich in water content like: cucumbers, honeydew, watermelons, iceberg lettuce, radish, celery and tomatoes.

Sun Damage: Just because the seasons are changing doesn't mean you can skip out on applying SPF protective moisturizers. So, whether it's hot and sunny, bright and snowy or some weather in between; apply a natural sun-screen enhanced moisturizer to protect your skin. Some possible signs of sun damaged skin, include: flakiness; inflamed skin or redness increasing sensitivity; wrinkles, liver/age spots, blotchiness and dullness. Some possible natural solutions include: drinking antioxidant-rich tea (green and black tea), staying hydrated and using natural sun-protective moisturizers.

In general, more overall rules of thumb for having clear skin include: using a natural gentle body and/or facial scrub to help deeply exfoliate your skin, which helps remove deep-set debris. Drink plenty water, (i.e. half your body weight in ounces of water), eat fresh fruits and veggies as much as possible (yes, what you eat does make a difference), have regular bowel movements and exercise.

Most importantly, get some shut eye, keep calm and carry on because stress will only create mild-to-severe reactions on the skin.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

EVENT RECAP: Enterovirus D68/Ebola - Boost Your Defenses Naturally


Recently, I attended a workshop called, Enterovirus D68/Ebola - Boost Your Defense Naturally at Exhalation Integrative Wellness. The workshop was very informational, so much so, I decided to share what I've learned...

We learned that humans encounter hundreds of viruses on a daily basis, and were encourage to drop the fear about the latest scare. Viruses initially attack and weaken the immune system; therefore, one of the absolute best lines of defense from viral infections is to strengthen your immunity. Below are three simple ways to defend yourself from such an attack, but first let's learn a little bit more about a couple of viruses that received some notability recently.


Every so often, one virus takes center stage and is popularized through the media. You've heard of some of them: H1N1 (Swine Flu), Avian Flu (Bird Flu), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Ebola is the newest quote/unquote viral epidemics.


Ebola is a viral infection that causes fever, fatigue, internal bleeding joint and muscle pain. It is not airborne and can spread through bodily fluids like saliva, vomit, diarrhea, genital fluids, or surfaces and materials containing any of the viral fluids. It also can spread with direct exposure to the blood and bodily organs.


The Enterovirus D68 effects the respiratory tract, causing runny nose, fever, coughing, body and muscle aches. It is one of 100 strains of the enterovirus.


In light of the recent Ebola scare, workshop facilitator, Dr. Karla Mitchell shared preventative tips on how to naturally boost you and your family's immune defense with three natural alternatives:



1) Be Young Essential Oil's Spice of Life Defense & Guardian, good for strengthening the immune system and can be used as a preventative measure for cold and flu. This particular brand of essential oils are therapeutic grade, which means in additional to external use, they also can be taken internally. For usage instructions and dosage, consult a qualified natural health care provider. It can purchased online or directly at Exhalation Integrative Wellness. Essential oils, especially a high-quality therapeutic grade, is a natural medicine cabinet keepsake.

2) Homeoprophylaxis, a homeopathic remedy that drains the lymphatic system, detoxifies major organs and naturally (not chemically) triggers the body's immune response. This group of products is a highly touted natural alternative to vaccination. Although natural, this also must be used under supervision of a natural health care provider. This modality is offered at Exhalation Integrative Wellness.



3) Master Tonic, an anti-viral, anti-fungal Ayervedic decongestant tonic. This tonic can be created in the comforts of your home using ginger, turmeric, onions, garlic, cayenne and apple cider vinegar. After combining ingredients, allow it to age for at least three-weeks. This tonic helps to boost immunity while busting through mucus. It's most useful for clod/flu prevention and can be used in place of OTC medicine when fighting cold/flu.


BONUS: For those residing in Detroit-area; you can learn how to make this tonic first-hand from Naturopathic Doctor, Karla Mitchell at Exhalation Integrative Wellness on Nov. 8 at 2 p.m.


Still want to know more? Feel free to go to the source, Karla Mitchell is a naturopathic doctor and certified natural health professional. Her natural health and healing center offers free consultations, and accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, medicaid, FSA and HSA.



- Avec Amour

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Golden Turmeric Milk = Glowing Skin


Image courtesy of artur84 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net



Whatever you put in your body, eventually gets filtered through your skin, making the foods and beverage you consume vital. The foods you eat during cold and flu season are crucial to the upkeep of your health in that it will either serve as nourishment or slowly begin to compromise your health.

As a preventative measure, here's a recipe to a delicious ancient drink -- golden milk -- that will help get you going again.


Golden Milk Recipe:

Almond milk: you can substitute for coconut, rice milk or any other milk of choice (3 cups)
Turmeric (3 tsp) - (if using fresh turmeric, use mortar and pestle to grind it into powder form)
Cardamon (2 tsp) - powder
Cinnamon (1 tsp) - ground
Ginger (1/2 tsp diced) - fresh or ground
Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) - peppercorn or ground

So here's how you make it...

Warm milk over medium heat, add spices and stir. Allow mixture to come to a boil for about 10-minutes, and then reduce the temperature to low heat. Strain, then pour into a cup and of course let it cool for about 2-minutes and sip and enjoy. 

TOP 5 BENEFITS FOR USING TURMERIC:

This touted kitchen spice is most popular as an ingredient in Indian cuisine. In addition to its savory flavor, it is what creates the yellow tint in curry powder. Among its long list of nutritional benefits, here's a list of turmeric's top five benefits:

  1. Anti-inflammatory benefits, making it great for inflamed digestive tracks 
  2. Natural detox, including organs and blood
  3. Evens skin tone, great for external and internal use to help keep skin looking toned
  4. Antioxidant, helps fight free radicals, which causes pre-mature aging
  5. Immune system strengthener, has antimicrobal, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties



- Avec Amour


Sunday, September 14, 2014

Event Recap: Detroit Healing Tour Debut



We've been really busy this summer, from participating in farmers market and fairs to creating/planning the Detroit Healing Tour. If you've missed our debut event, which happened yesterday, here's a quick recap... maybe you can join us next time around.

Amour All Naturals recently produced the Detroit Healing Tour in collaboration with Noble Snow Natural Health/Noble Nieve Salud Natural and the event was a smashing hit!

Festivities started at the hosting destination site, Exhalation Integrative Wellness Institute, which was also an event sponsor. The tour began with complimentary juices provided by Exhalation Integrative Wellness, shea butter from Amour All Naturals and light yoga stretches by Meiko Krishok from P.A.T.H. (People Alternative to Healing). Then we boarded the bus, and visited:



Detroit Wholistic Center
D-Town Farm
Innate Healing Center & Goldengate Cafe
American Indian Health and Family Services
Tarot & Tea 
Detroit Third Mind 

Following the bus tour, festivities continued at Exhalation Integrative Wellness Institute for complimentary natural healing services and vendors were onsite, including:

Noble Snow Natural Health - complimentary body cupping
Lotus Tribe Collective - craft jewelry, body products and waist beads
PATH (People's Alternative to Healing) - massage and foods
Edible Hut - complimentary natural herbs
Vision Boarding & Body Products by Lottie Spady - vision boarding and body products
Because Her Hands Care - reflexology and massage
Complimentary Ear Acupuncture 
Chosen Journey - jewelry, dolls, handmade purses
Sabai Therapeutic Massage - chair and trigger point therapy massage
House of Bastet - yoga and dance

Here are some photos from the event, we hope to see you next time around!

Photos by Tasneem Penn of Third Eye Lens


Native song at American Indian Health and Family Services

Bus Tour in full effect


Attendees getting to know each other on the bus

Detroit Third Mind teaches how to make tinctures

Tour of DTown Farm 

Iridology explained at Detroit Wholistic Center

Heading to Innate Healing Center for food at its Goldengate Cafe


Attendees enjoying Tarot & Tea

Post bus tour -- vendors row



Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Listen to Your Gut



While surfing the Internet, I just ran across the ubiquitous post that goes something like "avoid natural products because they're not safe." Oftentimes, I'll continue reading processing the information with a grain of salt, as the authors usually caution that natural products (herbs, vitamins, supplements, home remedies, etc.) are unsafe because:
  • It hasn't been FDA tested and approved
  • Not enough research, oh no!
  • It didn't work for me, so it won't work for you
  • May cause side effects, oh no!
The Internet is flooded with "Do This NOT That" articles, which can be confusing. So, I'm hoping this post can offer some clarity.

For starters, pick what works best for you and your body type and stick to it. In a recent post I read, the writer said when she applied baking soda to her skin it caused a reaction, and therefore suggested that no one else should use baking soda on their skin.

The fact of the matter is that the fabric of your very being is uniquely yours (thanks to DNA). This means, when a product does/doesn't work it can be attributed to a variety of factors that may or may not apply to the next person. Some of these reasons can include: genetic predisposition(s), diet, stress, alcohol, pH balance, smoking, exercise, etc. 


So making generalizations without sharing this background info can be misleading. Of course, no one wants to publicly disclose their health information and it's your right to keep it private; but at least be more objective when ruling out a product, regimen or methodology.


Personally, I've applied baking soda (as a cleanser) to my skin and had great results. I did however water it down with water until it became a loose-like paste texture. However, I won't claim that using baking soda will garner the same results for everybody. You'll have to try it for yourself to find out it'll work well with your skin. 


The web is filled with so many skeptical posts around that which is naturally created while lending blind trust to synthetic, laboratory created by-products. Rationing that even though these synthetic concoctions have a laundry list of side-effects they've been tested and approved.

A quick Internet search will inform you about the side effects associated with many commercial brand FDA approved products and pills. The bottom line is -- follow your instincts and use your common sense. If you try a new product (be it natural or synthetic) and it doesn't work or it causes an adverse reaction by all means stop using it. 



It is my goal here to only share information with you, hoping you'll keep searching for healthy options that suite you uniquely. These posts are to encourage you to decide for yourself, please don't just take my word for it or anyone else's for that matter. Listen to your gut and in good reason (your's) go taste, feel, touch, explore the variety of options available to you. I hope you collect data, test it out, stick with what works and change it up when needed.

In your quest if you do experience an adverse reaction, it would be helpful for you to get to the root of what caused it, as it may be tied to a greater health concern.


For instance, some commercial products contain silicone to which some people are allergic. This means if you use a product and it agitates you not only would it best to stop using it; but also good to find out whether it contains an ingredient you're allergic to. The same process would apply when using natural products, vitamins, supplements, etc. 


Give yourself permission to get investigative about your body and when you discover a product or regimen that works, find out what qualities about it suites you best. This way you can build a repertoire of items (vitamins, supplements, etc.) that that you know will improve your health and body while knowing which products to avoid that have been ineffective for you.


Yes, even some natural options have side effects but it's best to check with a qualified health care provider who is also familiar with natural health approaches.


The only way to find out for yourself is to give it a try, even if that means you try a little bit at a time. Take time for yourself to learn the proper functions of your body, because you're worth it!


- Avec Amour

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

DIY Natural Waterproof SPF 45 Sunscreen Moisturizer


Image courtesy of stockimages/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Did you notice that the sun feels a weee bit more harsh? Going outside used to be a fun, carefree activity, but thanks to the growing gap in the ozone layer -- the sun flat out hurts. From the beaming UV Rays, causing skin to feel as though its literally cooking, to the heat rashes, peeled skin or sun burn; getting your daily dose of vitamin D has turned into a hop-scotch game where you must jump in and out of the great outdoors to avoid detrimental effects to the skin.

No matter your complexion we all have to take necessary precaution when it comes to sun exposure. Not only is it best to drink plenty of water, wear breathable fabrics and a sun hat; but it's also absolutely vital to apply sunscreen -- natural sunscreen of course.

According to researchers at Missouri State University... 
"...when exposed to sunlight, zinc oxide, a common ingredient in sunscreens, undergoes a chemical reaction that may release unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals seek to bond with other molecules, but in the process, they can damage cells or the DNA contained within those cells. This in turn could increase the risk of skin cancer."

Which further drives home the point that when it comes to skin protection, natural skin care is the best option. Using natural and whole ingredients will not only protect your skin, but also nourish it as well. The skin is your body's largest organ in which particles applied to it eventually seep into the bloodstream. In similar fashion as an anti-smoking or birth control patch would. Read more about natural ways to nourish skin in my previous post on healthy skin care tips.




In case you're wondering where you can find a natural sunscreen moisturizer, here's a recipe on how you can create your own. You can alter the recipe to best suite your needs:

What You'll Need to Make Waterproof SPF 45 Sunscreen Lotion
3 Tblsp: Butter (raw shea or cocoa) - SPF 4
1/4 Cup: Coconut Oil - SPF 4
2 Tblsp: Aloe Vera Gel
32 drops: Carrot Seed Oil - SPF 35
10 drops: Eucalyptus Essential Oil - SPF 2
15 drops: Citronella Essential Oil (helps repel bugs naturally)
10 drops: Vitamin E
1/2 Tblsp: Beeswax (for waterproofing)
1 Mason jar or empty squeeze bottle (use an old lotion bottle, but wash VERY thoroughly as the chemicals can be difficult to fully remove from the bottle)

It is important to note NEVER to use citrus oils (like lemon, orange or grapefruit) in your sunscreen as this heightens sensitivity to the sun's UV Rays and can cause adverse reactions.

How to Make It Yourself:
1) Melt beeswax in a crock pot or double boiler, 

2) Pour the remainder of contents in a large mixing bowl, adding melted beeswax, 

3) Blend on high speed until what remains is a creamy mixture, 

4) Pour into a mason jar or lotion container and store in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life

NOTE: Without storing in the fridge, sunscreen lotion may last up to 2 weeks or a wee bit longer if you're lucky, assuming it's in a room temperature environment.

SHORT CUT: Personally, when I don't have a batch of natural sunscreen prepared, I add about 10 drops of carrot seed oil to my moisturizer (carrot seed oil on its own provides a SPF of about 35. Specifically, its SPF abilities usually ranges between 30-40 depending on the brand). When I do this, my skin still feels great at the end of the day, no peeling or sunburned skin.

However, if you expect to be in the sun for a long time the above mixture is a better option.

Side note, did you ever wonder what SPF stood for, well it's an acronym for Sun Protection Factor. Now you know!


~ Enjoy!