BE PATIENT ~ IT'S STILL SPRING

~ MORE TRANSITIONAL PRODUCTS FOR SPRING AND SUMMER ~

Now that spring is in full swing, most people have either begun planting their gardens, or readying their backyard grills after winter’s hibernation, or renewing outdoor routines, while others plan their quick weekend getaways or leisure vacations.  All of this welcome busyness is in anticipation of the warmer summer months, despite it still being spring. 

In this edition, I'm continuing my theme from recent articles, which featured reviews of products that transitioned nicely into spring and summer.  This edition will also include highlights on some of our industry’s latest happenings.  Enjoy!

AMRIT ORGANICS ~ If you’re still searching for a high-performance, all-natural, wild crafted certified organic skincare line that’s gentle, earth and user friendly, while also being efficacious, then look no further.  Amrit Organics Raw Skin Care addresses the needs and preferences of professionals and consumers alike who wish skincare to ethically and safely meet their needs, while providing them with the best in skincare.  The line offers five skin-specific formulations that deliver results within the spa medical spa, or in the home.  I tried the Purely Bare formulation for reactive skin types (e.g. hyper-sensitive, Rosacea, Eczema, Psoriasis, chronically inflamed).  My skin can be finicky at times and using gentle products is key to minimize another contributing irritant, such as skincare that’s isn’t formulated to target these issues.  Products tried included the Facial Cleanser, Organic Hydrosol, Organic Skin Smoother and Organic Moisture for Hyper Sensitivity & Dryness; I also tried the Organic Conditioning Makeup Remover.  The Cleanser gently removed all impurities without drying the skin; has an “earthy” aroma.  The Hydrosol was refreshing to spritz on after a thorough cleansing; chilled, this a delight to spritz on when a pick-me-up is needed, or having a “hot flash”.  I enjoyed the gentle exfoliation from the Smoother; a small amount mixed in with some of the Cleanser was sufficient; left skin feeling polished and renewed.  The Moisture delivered incredible hydration results without leaving the skin greasy or tacky; its aroma was outstanding.  For those times when I needed to quickly and effectively remove my makeup, the Remover was great to have on hand; it quickly removed the makeup without leaving any residue and subtly hydrated the skin.  As an added bonus, I also tried an Organic Lavender Essential Oil from their newest Aromatherapy Bar offering.  I adore anything with lavender essential oil in it; the product was incredibly hydrating, while also calming down reactive skin; I also used it to calm down an area that was healing from minor surgery.  Lastly, this line offers an impressive array of specialized skin and body care treatment products.  http://www.redcherrygroup.com

AVEDA ~ This iconic brand remains a go-to for those wanting safe, reliable and effective products for hair, skin, body, face and lifestyle.  Recent new products continue this brand’s favorable market position as a leader and innovator in natural, organic, Ayurveda-inspired, flower and plant-derived products that are user and planet-friendly.  Haircare products tried included Invati Solutions for Thinning Hair, which included Exfoliating Shampoo, Thickening Conditioner and Scalp Revitalizer.  A close friend of mine tried the Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair and Color Conserve Daily Color Protect.  All of the Invati products I tried were outstanding.  I was amazed at the immediate and noticeable improvement to my hair’s texture and appearance; it was thicker, fuller, brighter and healthier looking after using the products.  I loved the product aromas.  The products my girlfriend tried noticeably made her hair look healthier and brighter; she colors her hair and the Damage Remedy products were ideal for her hair condition.  The first time I saw her after she had begun using the products, I immediately noticed a difference in her hair.  Skincare products tried included Elemental Nature Skin Care Starter Set for Infinity/Air Natures ~ Botanical Kinetics is recommended for dry/normal mixed skin type, such as myself; products included Crème Cleanser, Skin Firming Toner, Exfoliant and Hydrating Lotion.  The entire sequence of the new skincare is based on the principles of Ayurveda’s elemental natures that include infinity, air, fire, water and earth.  In addition to the infinity/air I tried, other sets include products geared towards the remaining natures, and include fire sensitive, fire enbrightenment, water/earth and balanced.  Products in each set are formulated with Ayurvedic ingredients that are known to adapt to the specific elemental nature.  The Cleanser was creamy, gentle and deep cleaning; skin was left hydrated with no greasy residue or tackiness.  The Toner left my skin feeling fresh and firm without being taut; I spritzed on the product throughout the day as a freshener.  The Exfoliant was wonderful; this liquid toner added brightness to the skin without drying; very gentle exfoliation while leaving the skin hydrated.   The Lotion added wonderful hydration, wasn’t greasy, was quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue.  Each product's aroma was calming with subtle overtones of fresh green herbal and floral.  Check out the website for all of the latest and greatest with this popular line.  http://www.aveda.com

BURT'S BEES~ This popular brand has been a mainstay for over twenty-five years, and continues its commitment to providing its customers with products that are natural, gentle, non-irritating and effective; it is also committed to adhering to principles of sustainability.  I enjoyed trying the following products ~ Facial Cleansing Towelettes with White Tea Extract, Sensitive Eye Cream with Cotton Extract, Honey & Shea Conditioning Body Bar, and Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm with Kokum Butter.  The Towelettes gently and thoroughly removed makeup and left my skin hydrated; key ingredients included, white tea extract, cucumber extract, aloe vera and vitamin E.  The Eye Cream was non-irritating and left the fragile under eye area hydrated; key ingredients included cotton extract, rice extract and aloe vera.  The Conditioning Bar was also gentle and non-irritating; enjoyed how my skin was hydrated after rinsing off in the shower; key ingredients included grapeseed, shea butter, safflower seed oil, honey and royal jelly extract.  The Lip Balm drenched my lips with hydration; easy glide without any drag; key ingredients included coconut, olive, sunflower and avocado oils, cocoa, shea and kokum butters. http://www.burtsbees.com

KRIGLER NEW YORK FRAGRANCE ~ This luxe perfumery gives a nod to its 100^th Anniversary with one of its original heady scents, Ultra Chateau Krigler No. 12 Fragrance.  The finest essential oils comprise are used in this artisan crafted perfume.  Top notes included muguet, iris, magnolia, violet, and rose.  The middle notes included musk, cassis, champaca flowers, jasmine, ylang ylang and lilac.  The dry down was continuous and was as beautiful, elegant, sophisticated and complex as when first applied.  An old worldly perfume reminiscent of a time when feathery fedoras, lace hankies and white gloved damsels sashayed up and down NYC’s Park Avenue.  http://www.krigler.com

LA BELLA DONNA ~ This was my first time using this product line and it was a real wow!  Over the years I’ve tried different lines and liked but a few.  I’m adding this one to my list of favs. What I especially enjoyed about the products I tried was the effortless application and the staying power of products, eliminating the need for touch-ups.  The colors were rich, natural and beautiful and could be applied as a delicate enhancement, or glammed-up.  The products I tried included Compressed Mineral Foundation (Nicoletta), Colour Blushing Compact Quad (Vision of Mineral Lights), Eyeshadow Compact Colour Quad (Sedona Sunset), and Baci Baci Award Winning Moisturizing Lip Sheer (La Viv en Rose).  I enjoyed the ability to customize my own color with the Blushing Compact Quad by sweeping my brush over all four colors to make a brilliant and luminous hint of color (blush or bronze) or use each individual color from each section; either way was a unique color experience.  I pretty much did the same thing with the Eyeshadow Compact Colour Quad; the colors made my eyes pop and come alive.  Speaking of which, the Lip Sheer is one of those pump-action brush applicators; it took me a few practices to get the hang of it without releasing too much; easy does it and a little goes a long way; the color was beautiful and added a nice gloss to my lips and brightened my face.  All of these colors complimented my skin tone. http://www.labelladonna.com

LADIES & GENTLEMEN AVEDA SALON & SPA ~ I had the pleasure of experiencing this full-service Aveda Salon & Spa at the Chicago, IL location; I scheduled a precision haircut with senior stylist Monica.  Located in the new Block 37 on Chicago’s iconic State Street, I was impressed at its enormity.  The relaxation area was very Zen-like with subdued lighting, a neutral color palette and over-stuffed chairs; I was given a cup of their signature all-natural tisane, which I love, to further relax me. Before my service began, my stylist came into the relaxation area and guided me through a Sensory Journey; this is a standard service guests enjoy regardless of which service they book.  The Journey began with my stylist explaining to me the different Chakras with representative placards; I’m then asked to select one of them to correspond to the way I’m feeling at that particular time; I’m then presented with three corresponding essential oils associated with that particular Chakra and asked to inhale each one; I then select the one I’m most drawn too and which appeals most to me at that time.  My stylist then selects the corresponding Chakra Spray and lightly mists the air around me.  The Journey concluded with an application of the selected Chakra Essential Oil to my pressure points.  After a beautiful cut, before leaving for a luncheon appointment, I had enough time to experience a Chair Massage and Stress Relief Hand Massage; the hand massage used Aveda Stress Relief Hand Cream; both were given to me by massage therapist Brianna; her technique was impressive, especially during the Chair Massage, which was comparable to receiving a treatment table massage; it was that good.  http://www.ladiesgentleman.com

THYMES ~ As one of my favorite lines, I always have a variety of collections to choose from to match any persona I'm experiencing at any particular time; within each of their collections there's a variety of products for Bath & Body as well as Home Fragrance.  This time around, I tried the Agave Nectar Home Fragrance Mist from their Agave Nectar Home Fragrance collection.  The Mist was vibrant, fresh, crisp and sunny, adding a delicate and airy scent that delicately imparted luscious aromas of grapefruit, guava and lemon blossom into the air without being cloying; the scent added sunshine to my rooms.  New this season is the beautiful Garden Alchemy collection with three distinctive aroma choices; they include Rosemary Sage, Wild Angelica and Lemon Geranium.  I tried the beautiful and sophisticated Lemon Geranium.  The airy, yet complex aroma was comprised of lemon geranium, muguet, and honeysuckle with green notes of armoise, Tonka bean and green moss.  A spirited and uplifting fragrance that remains delicate and crisp.  http://www.thymes.com

~ ETCETERA ~

ITEM ~ The recent launch of WellTech is our industry’s first-ever health and wellness-focused  “incubator” for business start-ups.  WellTech will offer an entrepreneurial turnkey approach to new businesses along with critical experts to aid the development of the newer companies.  WellTech is an offshoot of SpaFinder and destined to fill the void of obtaining all-things spa health and wellness focused; the concept is the first of its kind and promises to be a huge success.  http://www.welltechfunding.com/how.html

ITEM ~ Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and its Sheraton Hotels is expanding its signature spa brand Shine Spa throughout Asia, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.  The brand is targeted for twenty-three by 2015, with ten opening this year.  http://www.sheraton.com

ITEM ~ Italy’s iconic health and wellness spa destination Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort announces a partnership with Zerona, developer of the first-ever non-invasive body contouring procedure, the Zerona Body Slimming Treatment.  Guests will be able to experience a reduction of unwanted body fat in key areas over the course of six individual treatments.  http://www.termedisaturnia.com

ITEM ~ The first-ever BeWell Expo, which combines beauty and wellness under one roof, has been announced for September 29-30 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.  The expo will feature our industry’s best and brightest experts, products, trends, education and sampling. Tickets are $25.00 for one day, or $50.00 for both days.  Proceeds benefit the “Look Good Feel Better” charity that nurtures and mentors cancer survivor.  Sponsored by “New Beauty Magazine” and SpaFinder.  http://www.bewell-expo.com

ITEM ~ If you’re a sun goddess and can’t get enough of the sun for that 1) all-over bronze glow, 2) dread the prospect of sun-induced skin cancer, 3) spend too much time and money going regularly to a salon for a spray-on tan, then consider a safer and more eco-friendly at-home spray tanning version.  The Tropic Spa Home Mist Tanning System is consumer-friendly and uses plant-based solutions for a DIY tan.  http://www.tropicspatan.com

ITEM ~ If you love the outdoors and being close to nature, but don’t want to rough-it with standard camping-fare, then consider the luxury alternative of El Capitan Canyon, the first-ever luxury camping alternative.  Safari Tents, Cedar Cabins and Adventure Yurts are offered at this all-season comfort camping destination in northern Santa Barbara.  http://www.elcapitancanyon.com

ITEM ~ If you’re ever in the western suburbs of Chicago, newly opened Bakersfield Restaurant is a must-visit.  Only the finest, natural, organic and local foods are offered at this dining establishment that is open for lunch or dinner.  Menu selections can be modified to appeal to any dining preferences, including carnivore, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free; the wines offered are impressive.  The Restaurant is lively, upscale and unpretentious and offers wonderful food with exceptional service.  After a nice repast, cross the street and do some upscale shopping at its sister Standard Market.  Local, natural, fresh and organic is also the Market’s theme.  Fresh made breads, pastries and desserts, artisan coffees and teas, fresh flowers, local meats, cheeses and produce, fresh made sushi, wines, fresh made prepared dinners will delight everything the foodie wishes; another plus is the popular in-store Standard Grill, which comes with fresh made food-fare and a self-serve fruit and veggie water bar.  http://www.bakersfieldrestaurant.com/…. http://www.standardmarket.com/

That’s it for this edition.  I hope you’ll take some time to visit the websites listed and do some additional browsing to fully appreciate the scope of products and items offered.  Make sure to also check out Facebook for the brands mentioned and become a fan of the pages to keep up on the latest news.  

Explore, share and daydream.  Whatever you do, make sure you do something nice for yourself and those around you.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo by Joseph D. Herman, all other photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

HOW TO SPA AT HOME

 

A number of years ago, I had the pleasure of conducting over twenty on-air television interviews with national media on various aspects of at-home spa-ing.  As a recognized expert in spa, beauty and wellness, I focused on ways to create an environment conducive to relieving stress, even if a person had never been to a spa.  When it comes to at-home spa-ing, remember that this is about you, your preferences and your space.  Avoid outside influences such as other people’s opinions, which can be both annoying and stressful.

·       The purpose of spa-ing is to de-tress, relax, rejuvenate and regenerate and is sensory-driven.  Sensory stimuli will in fact impact a person’s stress level.  Some of these include harsh lighting, excessive noise (human voice, vehicles, music, etc.), offensive aromas (toxic chemicals or artificial substances), offensive tastes, temperatures that are too hot or too cold, and anything that is disruptive to one’s normal routine or state of “being”.

·       While some of these annoyances and disruptions may not be within one’s control to totally avoid or even minimize, one’s coping mechanism controls the sensory annoyance or disruption.

·       The traditional concept of spa has always involved water; so the most logical place within one’s home to create an at-home spa environment is the bathroom. 

·       The overall space of a bathroom is probably limited and confined, compared to other room sizes in the average home.  Confined spaces can also create stress.  If your bathroom tends to be cluttered, try and eliminate as much clutter as possible in order to create as much of a stress-free environment as possible.

·       Try to control the room’s lighting.  If you don’t have a dimmer switch, consider using a lower wattage bulb.  High wattage bulbs are bright and also emit heat, which in turn can elevate levels of stress. 

·       Consider turning the artificial lighting off and utilize soy candles, which burn more efficiently and don’t emit toxins from artificial ingredient or much heat.  Choose one that’s infused with an aroma you enjoy.  While the candle burns, the essential oils in the candle will diffuse the aroma into the air.  Eliminate any harsh odors in the bathroom and always use non-toxic cleaners that get the job done minus the harsh chemical ingredients.  Consider using a natural atomizer spray, or a diffuser.

·       Bring some nature into the space.  Natural growth, like plants or flowers, adds a calming effect and keeps you in tune with it.

·       If your tub is deep enough for a languid and calming soak, use water softened with scented bath salts, or have some fun and take a bubble bath.  If you only have a shower, use a gentle cleansing product that is non-drying and has a pleasant aroma.  Gentle aromas help to stimulate the olfactory and induce a calming effect.

·       Play some soothing music while soaking in the tub or once you come out of the shower.  The music stimulates the auditory, thereby creating a sense of calm.

·       Indulge yourself with thick and thirsty toweling made of natural fibers that will be gentle on the skin and feel extravagant to the touch.

·       Leave your skin slightly damp and apply a body oil or a dense hydrating cream to seal in moisture.

·       Top your at-home spa experience by sitting down and savoring the moments while sipping a calming cup of hot herbal tea (tisane); avoid anything alcoholic or caffeinated. 

·       At this point, you should be ready to nod off and get a good night’s sleep in your comfy bed and wake up the next morning refreshed and energized.

Creating an at-home spa environment and immersing yourself in that environment isn’t hedonistic.  And while it may be about you, remember that it’s also an investment in your well-being.  Plan how you want to use some daily time for yourself and try to schedule it in your busy schedule.  Treat it like an appointment and something you have to do.  You’ve earned it and you most definitely deserve it. 

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo images from www.123rf.com)

HEALTHY GREEN LIVING

~ A KEY TO WELLNESS ~

This edition is all about healthy green living in the kitchen and home.  It features my interviews with two extraordinary celebrity chefs that are definitively passionate when it comes to healthy cooking and eating.  In addition to my interviews with Chef Cat Cora and Chef Curtis Stone, I’ll talk a bit about their exiting new cookware lines and cookbooks.  Also featured will be information and reviews of “Gadgets, Gizmos & Other Stuff” from the recent International Home+Housewares Show.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We’re all striving to live a healthy lifestyle, which includes being mindful, green and sustainable about the environment.  Research and development plus technological advances all remain at the forefront of the related trends that include recycling, farming, manufacturing and consumer needs, such as clothing, shelter, food and culinary.

I recently attended the International Home+Housewares Show. Throughout the show there was a major presence of exhibitors showcasing their latest innovative and technology-based products conducive to both the industry and consumer commitment to green and sustainable.  While it makes sense to do whatever is possible to achieve sustainability, businesses and consumers that do also realize cost savings because of changes; for businesses, those cost savings are realized in operational methodologies, while for the consumers, cost savings are realized in various aspects of their personal lives.  The environment wins, businesses win and consumers win.

In this article, I want to share with you some innovative products that will give the individual a definite advantage in their quest to do more for the environment while being aid in their quest for a healthy lifestyle.  The products will include gadgets, staples, food preparation and even some food related.  I’ll also be including reviews of two cookbooks by individual celebrity chefs, Cat Cora and Curtis Stone.  Additionally, I had the extreme pleasure of sitting down with each of these inspiring chefs to interview them on their attitudes toward healthy cooking, food preparation, and how their cookware lines will benefit the home cook.

While I was able to take in a great deal of this four-day enormous trade show, I barely scratched the surface.  With over two thousand exhibitors and over sixty thousand global attendees, it was understandable why I couldn’t facilitate covering the show in its entirety.  That being said, what I’m presenting here will give you a glimpse into this extraordinary event.

GET YOUR HEALTHY COOKING ON ~ WITH CHEF CAT CORA & CHEF CURTIS STONE

During the IHA, I had the privilege of interviewing two iconic celebrity chefs, Chef Cat Cora and Chef Curtis Stone.  We discussed their new cookware lines and their philosophy on healthy eating and healthy cooking at home.  Each of these new lines makes kitchen prep organized, stylized, beautiful and functional, while elevating cooking from an inconvenience to something enjoyable pieces.  I was also fortunate enough to get an autographed copy of their cookbooks.

CHEF CAT CORA ~ This busy mother of four young boys (need we say more!) knows all about the key to a healthy lifestyle, and that’s having balance in one’s life.  When it comes to healthy cooking and eating, it’s also about balance between the foods prepared and how they’re prepared.  Having good cookware that allows you to “work smarter, not harder” is key, as well as being mindful of measurements and portion sizes.  And, while she’s aware of the emphasis on healthy eating, she also recognizes that sometimes busy parents don’t always have the time to prepare a totally from-scratch healthy meal, and shouldn’t feel guilty about using healthy substitutions from a local market, like a market cooked organic or free-range chicken, and then serving it with a fresh made salad.

Cat Cora for Startfrit Cookware is a comprehensive line of beautifully designed must-have 18/10 stainless steel cookware pieces.  Since home cooks aren’t all the same, their individual preferences in appearance and overall design of staple cookware will also varies.  The Cat Cora for Starfrit Cookware collection offers various stylized designs to appeal to all interests and likes. Each one is unique and practical and also beautiful in appearance.  These designs include Cook ‘n Serve, Tri-Ply, Stackable, Hard Anodized and Non-Stick. I especially love the Cook ‘n Serve line; these varying sized casseroles are made of an 18/10 stainless steel cooking chamber with a separate bamboo server that the casserole fits into; the bamboo server insulates the casserole chamber, while maintaining the food’s temperature; the bamboo server also doubles as a stylized and beautiful tabletop piece.  All items were Chef inspired and designed, and rigorously tested for ease of use; the easy grip slanted and generously sized handles and cooking chambers are all durably constructed and weighted for stability, while optimizing efficient heat disbursement and maintaining its temperature consistency.  Other items included in Chef Cora’s line include bamboo-cooking utensils, acacia cutting boards, cutting knives, thermal lunch carryall, pantry staples like olives and olive oils, plus various wines.  Everything in her line is functionally beautiful, while emphasizing simplicity in food prep and cooking.  Lastly, Chef Cora’s passion transcends cooking with her committed involvement with the charity, Chefs for Humanity.

Cook ‘n Serve 1.5 qt. Casserole ~ I made lamb stew (my own throw-together recipe) in this Casserole pot the other day.  It’s the perfect size for individuals or small families; it's stylish, functional and compact, too.  I loved the sturdiness of the pot, which didn’t add any weight to the filled chamber.  The large curved handles fit easily into the palms, making it easy and safe to remove the pot from the oven; after letting it rest for about twenty minutes, I placed in into its beautiful bamboo server; the overall appearance of the presentation was impressive.  Made of double-walled 18/10 stainless steel with a reinforced bottom, easy grip generously sized angled solid riveted handles; there are also interior fill markings in both U.S./metric measurements; fill capacity is approximately 2 qt./2 L; cleans up easily and stores compactly; stackable with other pieces from line. 

Cat Cora’s Classics With A Twist: Fresh Takes on Favorite Dishes (with Ann Krueger Spivack) cookbook offers the beginner to the advanced home cook a journey into simple, delicious, quick and healthy dishes.  The cookbook’s Introduction presents a glimpse into Chef Cora’s background and motivation to transform many traditional foods and recipes she grew up on.  She wanted to simplify and make healthier many of these dishes, as well as others that are popular to most palates, while keeping in mind the demands of busy parents who may not have a lot of time to prepare a full meal that’s healthy, but want to provide healthy food for their loved ones everyday.  The cookbook is full of easy to follow recipes with a simplified list of ingredients.  The cookbook is full of beautifully photographed finished dishes that realistically illustrate what the dish will look like.  Sections include recipes on Appetizers and Drinks, Soups and Salads, Main Dishes and Sides and Desserts.  There’s also a Good to Know section that is a primer of how-tos on making kitchen staples like soup stocks, homemade mayonnaise, infused oils, salsa, roasted garlic, southern corn bread and Herbes de Provence mix.  There’s also a Resources section that lists companies that sell some of the ingredients used in some of the recipes that might be a bit difficult to find in some areas.  The recipes, like the chef, are honest, simple and uncomplicated, down to earth and refreshing.

CHEF CURTIS STONE ~ This new dad also knows about the key to achieving a healthy lifestyle in one’s life and lives his tagline with panache, “Don’t just cook to live – live to cook.”  While he also recognizes the push by others to work towards achieving a healthy lifestyle, he’s also a strong advocate of approaching this goal as a journey and having balance in that journey.  He believes in starting out with small steps, like walking, and gradually expanding the daily routine to include other healthy lifestyle choices; these are all part of the journey.  Also included in the journey is being conscious about eating healthy and nutritious foods, since controlling what’s in your food, such as choosing natural or organic foods, will invariably lead to a better control of the types of foods going into your body, which translates to a healthy lifestyle.  Another element to achieving a healthy lifestyle through healthy eating is also having the right cooking accessories and cookware that makes food preparation effortless.

Curtis Stone Kitchen Solutions offers a comprehensive line of all-things needed in the kitchen, including bamboo-cutting boards, prep ware, bake ware, serve ware and cook ware.  Each piece is designed ergonomically for ease of use, ease of grip and stability, and they’re lovely to look at as well. I love the artistic flowing line of many of his pieces, but especially his Go With The Flow Oil Can; it could easily qualify as a display piece in MOMA; it’s that beautiful.  Prep ware pieces have stylized over-sized handles that make gripping easier and more logical, making the gripping action more confident and stable.  I also love the clever design of his bake ware pieces.  The bottoms of each item are designed to with a silicone bottom and a reinforced stainless steel inset piece for stability and heat disbursement.  As soon as baked goods are done, no more worries about removing the cooked items in tact; a few gentle taps of the bake ware bottoms on the counter, and voila, the prized recipe pops out; real sweet.   All pieces throughout his line were designed by Cookware pieces are made of 18/10 stainless steel and very durable.  His Workbench cutting board includes a drop hole for waste and a removal inset drawer for easy disposal of the trim; very clever.  His playfulness is exemplified in his Bump & Grind mortar and pestle sets; they pretty much sum up this chef – he makes food prep time playing with food a fun time.  Lastly, Chef Stone works closely with various markets on ways to improve and up their game on the quality and types of seasonal produce and healthy foods to offer to the market’s customers; he also creates recipe cards for their customers with an emphasis on seasonal, fresh and healthy goodness.   

Relaxed Cooking With Curtis Stone: Recipes To Put You In My Favorite Mood is like having the chef right in the palm of your hands.  The cookbook’s Introduction provides insight into the chef’s passion for food and how it’s transformed his life and how he wants it to transform others.  The cookbook takes you on a playful excursion of meals and include sections that are loaded with fresh and healthy recipes, like First Thing in the Morning, Brunch That Will Blow Their Minds, Weekend Lunches, Something to Eat on the Sofa, Daily Dinners, Crowd-Pleasers, Sides to Share and Sweet Dreams. 

CHEF TIDBITS ~ Chef Cora is the only female Iron Chef of America (Food Network) and is a regularly featured guest chef on numerous television programs.  She is also a successful restaurateur (CCQ and Kouzzina) and Executive Editor of Bon Appétit Magazine.  Chef Stone recently hosted the popular “Take Home Chef” program (TLC) and is also a regularly featured guest chef on numerous television programs.  These two iconic chefs have now become the new dynamic duo in chef-dom and have paired up to host what promises to be a new sizzling reality cooking show, “Around the World in 80 Plates”.  The clever twist on two popular television themes, reality and cooking, will premiere May 9, 2012 on BRAVO cable television, http://www.bravotv.com/around-the-world-in-80-plates.

GET YOUR GREEN ON ~ WITH GADGETRY, GIZMOS & OTHER STUFF

~ REVIEWS OF SOME OF MY FAVORITE SHOW PRODUCTS ~

Aladdin Insulated To-Go Food Containers ~ From refrigerator to microwave in a safe BPA-free sturdy double-walled insulated take-with container, will keep foods hotter or colder for longer periods of time; leak-proof and dishwasher safe.  Economical, since it reduces spending money on costly and unhealthy fast-food fare.

Go Picnic Ready To Eat Meals ~ This company has found a wonderful way to offer non-refrigerated packaged healthy meals that cater to all dietary needs.  I tried one of their newest varieties, All-Natural Sunbutter + Crackers Meal.  This delicious product is “all-natural, gluten-free and vegan” low calorie, low-fat and high in fiber and protein; handy-sized take-with food items included their Sunbutter Sunflowerseed Spread, Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Crackers, Enjoy Life Seed & Fruit Trail Mix, Niagara Natural Tropical Fruit Bites, Enjoy Life Double Chocolate Cookie.  With these types of healthy taste treats, no one needs to feel “deprived” because of their dietary restrictions.

Marie’s Chef’s Soap ~ Made from pure saponified plant-derived oils; contains no fragrance, synthetics, or additives.  The hard-milled soap comes in a handy one-pound brick that most find lasts a year.  Great for cleaning soiled hands, as well as all kitchenware, serve ware and utensils without any harsh or toxic chemicals; gentle on hands and non-drying.

Mastrad TopChips ~ This non-stick microwavable tray is designed with a raised and pierced silicone top; a single tray or double stacked trays accommodate thinly sliced firm fleshed fruits or vegetables.  No oils or cooking sprays are required, which makes for a natural and healthy crispy taste treat.  In three minutes, crispy potato chips are ready and definitely healthier than the deep-fried versions.  Included with the tray is a mini-mandoline slicer that assures the perfect uniform thickness of the vegetable or fruit.  I love the simplicity of this ingenuous product, and the chips taste delicious.

Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag ~ Made from bamboo charcoal and contained in a fabric bag, this product naturally and safely purifies the air of odors, bacteria, pollutants, toxic particulates, allergens, mold spores, mildew, and humidity; because the product is natural and doesn’t contain any type of toxic or artificial ingredient, it’s safe for humans and pets.  Bags are easily purified and rejuvenated by leaving them in direct sunlight outside for at least one hour a month.  Life expectancy is approximately two years; afterwards, the bamboo charcoal can be reused and spread on top of plants or around the base of trees.   Extremely cost-effective when you consider how expensive on a year-to-year basis other natural type air purifiers cost.   

Olde Thompson Spices & Seasonings ~ Since 1944, this company has been the iconic purveyor of fine spices and seasonings.  The natural ingredients add just the right amount of flavoring enhancements to prized recipes for the home cook, elevating their creations to gourmet dishes. Products tried included Mediterranean Sea Salt (clean and fresh tasting), Himalayan Pink Salt (clean and fresh tasting), Pepper Supreme (mélange of aromatic and subtle intense peppers: Tellicherry Black, Muntok White, Black and Pink peppercorns), Malabar Pepper (aromatic with intense flavor), and Rustic Tuscan Rub (a gourmet blend of rosemary, roasted garlic, bell peppers, basil, lemon and oregano).  All products are available in decorative mill and grinder sets, rack display, disposable grinder, or individual jars.  The salts contain minerals and the peppers contain anti-oxidants; both the minerals and anti-oxidants are nutritionally beneficial.  There is definitely a difference in food preparation when using the finest salts, peppers, spice blends and seasonings.  I thoroughly enjoyed the fresh, sweet, clean and aromatic taste properties of these products.

Original Spaghetti Scrub ~ This may look like a bunch of spaghetti, but its spaghetti-like strands are made of recycled materials such as corn cobs, peach pits and walnut shells.  The recycled materials are fabricated as a reusable scrubber that’s naturally abrasive (coarse or gentle) for tough cleaning jobs; requires less detergent for cleaning.  The fabrication is extremely strong and rarely requires replacement compared to conventional sponges and scrubbers.

Paper Shower ~ A great on-the-go product that is more gentle to skin than antibacterial gels or moist wipes.  Comes as a compact two-pack; one pack contains a pre-moistened towel for wiping down soiled body parts (legs, arms, hands, face and feet), and the other pack is a soft dry towel for wiping the wet cleaned areas includes recycled materials.

Primo Sport Bottle ~ Although this BPA-free bottle is meant as a part of this manufacturer’s beverage system, the bottle can be ordered separately.  I enjoyed the sturdy ergonomic tapered design and found it ideal as a take-with in the car; it fit easily into the glass holder and was easy to grip.  Reduces the waste of single-use plastic bottles. 

Reusable Produce Bags ~ Made from recycled material, these reusable produce bags are ideal for marketing and cut down on the waste of plastic or paper bags; breathable fabric with drawstring closure; comes in a handy five-pack. 

Skrub’a Glove ~ While these may look like loofah mitts, they’re actually nylon gloves designed to give a firm grip for holding and gently cleansing the exteriors of firm-skinned fruits and vegetables, without stripping away any of their nutrients.  Very hygienic and keeps any hand bacteria from touching the produce. 

 ~ YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD ~

Smith Village, the premier senior retirement community in the Chicago Beverly Area, has been at the forefront of providing the finest in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, caregiving and independent residential living for seniors since 1924.  At any given time, Smith Village residents have numerous opportunities to participate in field trips to destinations that are stimulating, informational, educational or cultural; many of the activities also involve a front row seat for in-house presentations.  At Smith Village, residents are never at a loss for activities that dynamically engage, nurture and stimulate the mental process, which is vital to the wellness equation.  On May 8^th, Smith Village will be hosting Chicago’s very own Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh.  The two noted celebrity chefs, cookbook authors, caterers and restaurateurs are also stars of the Food Network’s “Party Line With The Hearty Boys”.  Residents and guests will be treated to a fabulous cooking demonstration by these two celebrity chefs.  Featured will be nostalgic and retro-food dishes, sure to conjure up memories of iconic dishes of the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and even 80s, which residents and guests will recall with fondness.  A tasting of these culinary bits of nostalgia follows the cooking demonstration.  The event will be more than delicious and entertaining; it will also be an opportunity for attendees to recall bygone days and sharpen their mental acuity with these creative reminders.  For more details on the event, call 773-474-7303. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I hope this edition has inspired you towards striving for a healthy lifestyle with these products.  While there are many more fine products available in the market today to help one on their green and healthy journey, I hope the products I’ve presented in this edition will be just the right ones for your healthy lifestyle.  Make it a healthy and green one…for yourself and those you love!

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

APOTHECARY PREMCHIT

~ PREMCHIT WELLNESS AMBROSIAS AND ELIXIRS ~

EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness

Over the years, I’ve reviewed many hotels, resorts, and spas. Along the way, I’ve also reviewed quite a number of related treatment products that were touted to perform one way and ended up as disappointments.

Many had aromas that were off-putting, cloying or irritating. Formulations were lackluster, or grainy, greasy or dry like sludge, while others never absorbed properly or left tacky residues. Those promising to immediate results were all hype. Many of the products were advertised as the latest best thing to fight or even reverse aging, with DNA related issues as a point of consideration conveniently not mentioned, or concealed in an obscure footnote in the product’s description. Excuse me, but I was always under the impression that the only way to stop the aging process was to die. Many of the products were touted as pure, natural, organic, or some other hype du jour; often, these products performed the least favorable with some having a shelf life comparable to batting an eye. Some were foisted on me for my imprimatur with a lead-in tag about celebrity-dom, as if the flash in the pan starlet, who gratuitously used a product for a few seconds, was the authoritarian voice on the subject matter.

Honest, simple, and uncomplicated is what I want in products I use on my skin. I don’t need to be dazzled, because quite frankly I’m not a dazzler nor am I impressed with this type of approach. I also don’t care to have my signs of aging reversed, as I’m proud of my DNA and how great I look after all those years of experience and wisdom-building. I’m just me…honest, simple, and uncomplicated with no hype!

That being said, I recently had the pleasure of reviewing a number of products intrinsic to the EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness program’s Natural Detox Retreat. Behind this extraordinary program and all of its products is Premchit Prateap Na Thalang. Following is a brief glimpse into this extraordinary woman’s background.

Premchit’s family has been growing, trading, studying, using, and dispensing indigenous plants of southern Thailand and traditional Siamese knowledge for beauty, medicinal, nutritional and perfumery benefits for more than 12 generations. For nearly 200 years Premchit’s family traded aromatic plants with the British East India Company, including Thao Thep Kasatri, heroine of the Battle of Thalang (Phuket) in 1785, who traded with Sir Francis Light whilst he was based in Thalang. Premchit’s mother and father passed their family’s wisdom and secrets to Premchit, who blends this with her international certification in aromatherapy and intuitive cosmetic, cuisine, perfume, scent and therapeutic skills, to create enjoyable and effective Ambrosias, Elixirs and Treatments for health and happiness.

Following are her own words, which underscore her impressive lineage and how it transcends her passion and commitment to the program and how the program custom-tailors retreats for others as a means of restoring and healing them in their quest for health and wellness.

“Many people want to avoid or treat the chronic ailments of modern life in a way that is not only painless, but also convenient, effective, enjoyable, natural, private, and fits in with their own personal, work and life schedules”, said Premchit. I have designed my wellness retreats so guests have the convenience to start their retreat on any day of the year. Guests also have the flexibility to experience their retreat with any of my unique luxury resort partners and the privacy to do their retreat by themselves or with a friend or family member, as well as the enjoyment of combining their retreat with a holiday at an exotic destination, where the journey in retreat to wellness is a profound personal experience.”

Product Information

Packaging, except the Body Cleansing Bars, are contained in a bio-photon energy-preserving violet glass bottle. This glass is impervious to light, which preserves the purity and stability of each ingredient, while maximizing formulation stability and ingredient efficacy.

It is important to note that the products are broken down into several categories (purification, nourishment, and rest). The categories conform to the individual detoxification and wellness programs. There are three retreats (detox, stress, and romance) and eight therapies (ambrosia, breath, elixir, meditation, movement, music, scent and treatment).

Product Profiles

· Products are natural, organic, naturally cultivated, naturally derived, wild, and pure

· Only the highest quality essential oils are used that are authentic, genuine, natural and pure

· Sustainability is key, including products that are managed and harvested on a sustainable basis, wild harvested or organically grown in their natural environment, affinity to respect and protect the intellectual property rights of indigenous peoples, direct benefit to disadvantaged and poor harvesters, farmers, and producers

· Ingredients don’t include any animal or animal by-products

· No testing was done on any animals

· No testing was done that included plant origins that are considered endangered (CITES, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

· Formulations are 100% authentic, genuine, natural, organic, and pure botanicals and minerals

Why the products worked for me

· Aromas were subtle and calming

· Concentrated, so a little went a long way

· All formulations were non-irritating, with luxurious consistencies and were enjoyable to use

· Cleansing products were gentle and non-drying

· Moisturizing products were quickly absorbed, without leaving any tacky or greasy residue

· Hydration levels were maintained throughout the day

· Tisanes were enjoyable to consume, refreshing and calming

Guest Related

Following an initial consultation, guests select their course of retreat and therapy, the length of time for their experience, as well as which luxury resort partner for their experience; throughout their experience, follow-up consultations are also made with the guest. Upon arrival at their destination, guests are provided an exquisite silk bespoke keepsake box containing all of the ambrosias, elixirs, and products they’ll need throughout their experience.

Conclusion

Premchit Prateap Na Thalang created EXPERIENCE | PREMCHT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness and all of its transformative Ambrosias and Elixirs with “…loving kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy and equanimity to nourish, preserve, and restore animals, people, plants, and the earth…”. She is an extraordinarily gifted person with an innovative approach that combines luxury and wellness for those who seek healing and restoration. You can email her at Premchit@ApothecaryPremchit.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa. She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

HEALING LIFESTYLES & SPAS ARTICLE

DAILY RETREAT & RENEW TIP ~ April 3, 2012 ~ "10 TIPS FOR TRANSITIONING TO SPRING"

INTRODUCTION ~ http://www.healinglifestyles.com/index.php?page=healingtips&tipid=1000000007

MUST-READ TIPS ~ http://healinglifestyles.com/index.php/top-10-tips-for-transitioning-into-spring

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa. She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Regardless of the industry or business type, knowing how to resolve conflict satisfactorily between one's customer is vital to retaining their business or generating new clients. A by-product of the conflict not satisfactorily being resolved by the business between the aggrieved customer is the impact of negative word-of-mouth advertising by the aggrieved customer to their colleagues, friends, family, acquaintances and even strangers. The outcome directly impacts the businesses bottom-line and its profit potential.

I wrote a comprehensive article, "Conflict Resolution", which presents five actual situations involving customer conflicts that occurred at five different spas. In the article, I present the conflict and how the conflict was resolved by the respective spa's management. I then provide my input as to how the conflicts should have been resolved, including the residual effect on what the customer did as it relates to the individual business. Lastly, there is unbiased input from five different spa directors of leading U.S. spas as to how they would have handled the conflict and resolved it had it occurred at their respective spa.

"Conflict Resolution" appears in the April 2012 issue of "Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa". It can be viewed online at www.lneonline.com; click the view digital magazine link. The article appears on pages 90-96 of the issue.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa. She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Animated rendering by Terry Herman)