“HOUSTON: We have a solution!” by Wellness Warrior & Aesthetician Natalie Bolton

“HOUSTON: We have a solution!”

In honor of being back in this great Space City, and also for all of you other superb individuals abroad I have created a solution plan for combating the winter skin blues.

The official first day of fall has come and here we are.

FALL.

For some the change in season(s) is welcomed with parties, fluffy robes, champagne in hand and the dusting off of the most exquisite boots to ever be over worn. Let’s not forget the not so amazing boots that we all love to hate; a.k.a. the “moon boot”-we just can’t help but to have a nasty love affair with them.

And for others (myself being the ringleader of this category) any season NOT SUMMER offers up a bit of an emotional backlash. I immediately turn into the “weird, she- takes- a- sweater-everywhere- lady”, and I cry as anxiety washes over me when the sun goes down at 4:45. As we reminisce of summer days gone by we now must call out over the loudspeaker for a “cleanup on aisle 5!” in regards to our approximate 93 days of perpetual sun worship. So not only are we dealing with

  • STRIPPED
  • DRY
  • SUN-DAMAGED
  • DEHYDRATED SKIN

We must now off set the chill, chapped, and crepey flake machine we call our skin.

And here are my go to strategies, products and mindsets (mindsets probably leading the pack in importance).

-Peels for sun damage

Now is the time to erase boo boos made with those long hours in summer celebration. The great fact about peels is the technology is constantly changing and you can choose how aggressive or slow and steady you want to go. I use skincare lines that are pretty aggressive with zero downtime. So companies have come along with their formulations and ingredients.

-MORE WATER THAN YOU THINK. DRINK MORE WATER THAN YOU THINK. Going from dry heated rooms to bitter outdoor cold does its best to strip our natural moisture and water reserves. This dangerous combo impairs our skin’s barrier layer. Once cracked or impaired it becomes more difficult to repair damage as winter goes on. So drink up.

-Eat oil rich foods*. Great whole food oils work wonders internally and can’t help but to show externally resulting in supple skin.

  • Avocado-Hoooooooooly moly, guacamole! YES, GUAC IS GOOD!
  • Salmon*-Not only does it bear a beautiful hue; salmon is packed with life and skin enriching oils.
  • Coconut oil*-‘nuff said
  • Some good ol’ nut butters are always a great add…in moderation, and Nutella doesn’t count, sorry.

-The Bible had it right when the words in Exodus were spoken, “Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey…” Honey* heals everything!!! Mix a little honey with coffee grounds’ or sugar to make a glorious bath and body scrub. The honey will heal and soothe damaged skin and being a humectant, honey will seal in your skin’s own water helping against winter chapping. Milk* is a naturally acidic agent formally called lactic acid. Milk has a magical way of removing the skin layer that wants to flake off and peel. If you find that you are consistently dry-I suggest buying powdered milk like the one below and pouring a cup or two in a warm (not scolding hot) bath. After swirling and mixing the powder into the tub drop a few drops of chamomile, lavender, and/or natural rose oil. Chamomile and Lavender soothe and are great oils to use at bedtime, and rose oil is a humectant (locks in water for moisture) and rose oil is also a mood enhancer.

honey

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So now that we covered the strategies portions lets swiftly move on to products, you ready? Let’s go!

PRODUCTS! PRODUCTS! PRODUCTS!

I am not going to bombard you with a ton of products. I am just gonna give you a few of my staples that keep me thriving and jiving all winter long.

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-BIOELEMENTS lip buff

Chapped lips? Oh, no ma’am not a good look. This buffing treatment has sugar cane crystals (exfoliating), vitamin E (water-binding), Shea butter (oil sheathing), jojoba and olive oil (moisturizing) with several essential oils to comfort and cool. Scrub a dub while you’re in the tub.

-IMAGE balancing lip enhancement complex

And if you have fine lip lines this complex helps soften those lines. This balm has a messenger peptide that tells your own collagen to start working better. The lubrication helps protect the extremely fragile barrier layer of the lips with all organic and petrochemical free ingredients. Puh puh pucker up!

-EPICUREN soothing dermal repair balm

This nectar from the gods has single handedly saved my skin the past few winters. This repair balm is so rich yet is formulated to penetrate so you don’t have to deal with that greasy layer that just sits on your skin’s surface not doing the job. In extreme cases you can wear it in the day as your moisturizer or it can be used only at night as your night cream. Easy peezy.

-BIOELEMENTS multi task eye oil

WHAAAAT? An eye oil? YES! This little bullet of power is chocked full of antioxidants and precious GLA oils. Let me just whet your pallet with a few ingredients: Bulgarian rose oil (moisturizing), Evening primrose (smoothing), and GLA-Gamma Linolenic Acid (essential fatty acids for nourishing). You can carry this with you and if you have to brave less than desirable elements just roll and dab, just roll and dab and you will have a protective curtain for the windows to your soul.

-IMAGE tinted moisturizer

This everyday moisturizer happens to be tinted and also happens to be built with broad spectrum UVA/UVB high sun protection at an SPF 30. This moisturizer provides an even skin tone (clap) and healthy glow (clap clap) so you are covering more ground with less steps and effort applied. Next generation blend of anti-oxidants and the lightweight, sheer formula makes this product one of my absolute MUST HAVES. Oh, and did I mention paraben free? Duh.

And last but definitely not least-

-GLYCOLIC 5% or 10% lotion

Glycolic Acid is magic! It is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin by dissolving dead skin cells. It reduces dead, layering, and smothering skin build up that is responsible for a lot of different kinds of common skin problems. Hyaluronic Acid is activated resulting in the skin’s own ability to bind moisture and lock it in. Glycolic Acid enhances the skin overall appearance by feeling and looking smoother, healthier, and more youthful. 


A few pros:

  • Eats away at sun damage and discolorations
  • Pores look smaller and more refined
  • Helps even out and brighten skin tone
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

So this is it.

This is all I have.

With a few of these tips Fall can be our best season yet. 

Small tweaks –  powerful impact.

Thrive on,

 Natalie.

* I try to use products and ingredients that are as pure as possible and eat foods that are ethically handled. I believe in being kind to our planet and to the other glorious inhabitants we share her with. This is why I choose the specific products in this blog.

_______________________________

Nat_Tiff

 From CBS’s SURVIVOR to skincare, my sister Natalie Bolton has landed at the VANITY LOUNGE in Houston, TX. (Yay, do you know how happy our mom is to have both her girls back in the Great State!!)  Having the opportunity to fulfill her desire to bring beauty, healing and a sense of well being to men and women alike, Natalie has found her calling. As a state-board licensed aesthetician and certified Epicuren specialist, Natalie enhances the appearance and condition of her clients’ skin and their sense of self. Her specialties include rejuvenation and anti-aging. Natalie is also an expert in the areas of acne and problematic skin.

In Natalie’s own words she shares her personal philosophy, “The mandate for my life is not only bringing beauty to people by external means with new technologies, and cutting-edge technique, my goal is to also refresh the spirit. I pray every morning to bring beauty to the spirit of everyone I touch-so they leave feeling more beautiful and at peace after they leave me. I want to live my life like that as well. I want to leave the world more beautiful than when I found it.”

To book your appointment with Nat, call 713-942-9177 or book online.   Vanity Lounge is located at 2800 Kirby Drive #B110
Houston, TX 77098 in the Tootsies shopping center across from Eddie V’s. 

 

 

 

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Photos By Cody Bess

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OH TO BE OR NOT TO BE HYPER? By My Sis- Aesthetician & Wellness Warrior Natalie Bolton

Natalie_hyperpig_2

Oh the perks of youth…remember the hours and hours of hyper play in the summer sun? Oh, those were the days. Then something happens when we get older. We not only reminisce of those long summer days where perfect moments seemed to drag out like glorious dreamy memories; we also long for that energy we once had. That hyper excitement that would ignite with the simplest adventure was always available in full supply. Be it a new bike trail with your best friend Shelly or walking down by the murky river with your other best friend Becky; the average Tuesday afternoon would never disappoint. What else never disappointed?

That energy.

That enthusiasm.

That hyper, ready and willing anticipation for all things play.

Notice how I keep repeating the word Hyper. Not only do we miss the energy of our childhoods, but also somehow that gift of boundless hyper energy got traded in for hyper-pigmentation.

And here begins our post:

What is hyper pigmentation you might ask? This is Wikipedia’s definition:

“In dermatology, hyper pigmentation is the darkening of an area of skin or nails caused by increased melanin.

Hyper pigmentation may be caused by sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries, including those related to acne vulgaris.[1] People with darker Asian, Mediterranean, or African skin tones are also more prone to hyper pigmentation, especially if they have excess sun exposure.”

melasma_face_woman{Photo courtesy of http://www.catherinehinds.edu}

Ok, in layman’s terms hyper pigmentation is more popularly called melasma (pregnancy mask), or liver/age/sun spots, and even “discoloration” from acne scars can contribute. These examples are only a few names for discoloration yet the list goes on and on. And to us…it is simply the highly annoying, splotchy, uncoverable, every-time-we-look-in-the-mirror-this-is-all-we-see BS that has us feeling less than amazing. This is hyper pigmentation.

So, it seems to be one of the many cruel jokes Mother Nature plays on us as we go from the spry vigor of youth to the seemingly forever-fracturing de-perfectioning process of aging.

But not all hope is lost. There are options, ladies. There are options.

And lucky for you, you are reading this post NOW. For this is the season of the peel.

PEELS are nature’s little way of offering us a little help where needed. A few benefits of having a peel can be brightening, improving skin texture, wrinkle reduction, and many other juicy nuggets of wonderment.

Enter option 1. THE ACID PEEL. (Aka my trusty “3 mask-eteers” I like to call them)- The Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHA’s for short.

These are my most commonly used agents that I enlist in my protocol.

1-Glycolic acid-derived from sugarcane

2-Lactic acid-derived from milk (watch out if you are lactose intolerant)

3-Kojic acid-derived from mushrooms

Being Native American, Asian, and Eastern European I have a mixture of skin tones that benefit GREATLY from glycolic peels. Being olive or darker than average in color it lands me at a IV rating on the Fitzpatrick scale*. This means that I do tend to easily be a victim of hyper pigmentation. Cuts tend to want to scar more easily, and I could be more prone to acne scarring as well. So, glycolic on me is MAGIC! The molecule in glycolic is the smallest out of this acid family so it penetrates the deepest. Word UP! It’s awesome and I love it on my skin. Glycolic works on fairer tones as well. Most of my clients that are in the business of wanting a peel also dig the time-tested glycolic.

Lactic acid has the same benefits that glycolic has and is also less irritating and more hydrating. But if you are allergic to milk STEER CLEAR of this treatment and opt for another AHA option. So if you feel your skin is more sensitive (and you’re ok with milk products) talk to your esthetician about Lactic acid being your option.

Then there’s Kojic acid.

Kojic is a stellar skin lightening agent. Kojic acid literally stops melanin production therefore slowing and stopping the darkening of your skin. If you’re on hydroquinone, drop that crap like a bad knock-off Prada bag and talk to your esthetician about investing in Kojic acid treatments instead. Kojic is great for people with sensitive skin and the benefits over using hydroquinone are too much to list here.

It is always great to start a series of peels in the winter months, as we tend to be out in the sun less therefore reducing the risk of excessive sun-exposure. You never want to commit to peels in the summer as you are going to the beach, going on vacation, or still mastering (after all these years) the art of laying out on your roof. SUN SUN SUN…the enemy to peels. So, ALWAYS opt for winter sessions… AND ALWAYS ALWAYS WEAR SUN PROTECTION as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun and you could potentially make worse the very issue you are trying to correct.

 Talk to your professional about your allergies, risks, and the basic pros and cons of starting these treatments. And research for yourself which options would be best for you.

As for before, when I was hating on Mother Nature…I do it in pure fun. My true belief system is that we are constantly in a miraculous state of rejuvenation and repair. Our bodies, organs, and systems are so mind-bendingly intelligent that that self-correcting intelligence is within every function of our trillions and trillions of cells. So, I encourage you to err on the side of gratitude and acknowledgment for your beautiful skin, your intelligent internal system function, and your own ability to self heal. Our cells are always begging to thrive, not the other way around. If you find yourself a little unhappy with a condition you may be facing when looking in the mirror perhaps with loving thoughts and a little direction your cells will realign and recalibrate for the most optimal reflection possible. Your cells are programmed by the very thoughts you feed them. Feed them healthy thoughts. There is enough junk food in the world.

And if you are still a little gun-shy in the peel department, stay tuned for option 2 and 3 in the very near future.

You shine brighter than you think you do. Thank you for the light you share in this world.

 *Google Fitzpatrick scale to determine your own rating.

_______________________________________________

 

photo-4-1From CBS’s SURVIVOR to skincare, Natalie Bolton has landed at Tamara Dahill Salon in Los Angeles. Having the opportunity to fulfill her desire to bring beauty, healing and a sense of well being to men and women alike, Natalie has found her calling. As a state-board licensed aesthetician and certified Epicuren specialist, Natalie enhances the appearance and condition of her clients’ skin and their sense of self. Her specialties include rejuvenation and anti-aging. Natalie is also an expert in the areas of acne and problematic skin.

In Natalie’s own words she shares her personal philosophy, “The mandate for my life is not only bringing beauty to people by external means with new technologies, and cutting-edge technique, my goal is to also refresh the spirit. I pray every morning to bring beauty to the spirit of everyone I touch-so they leave feeling more beautiful and at peace after they leave me. I want to live my life like that as well. I want to leave the world more beautiful than when I found it.”

http://nataliebolton.com

For questions or inquiries: Tamara Dahill Salon (818) 752-6567 http://tdsalon.com or natalieboltonskinscience@gmail.com 

If you want the latest beauty and health tips you can follow Natalie on Facebook and Twitter at: /msnataliebolton

Instagram: shetalkstoangelsrunswithwolves

Natalie_hyperpig

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE STRUGGLE FOR BEAUTY VS. THE BEAUTY IN STRUGGLE By Guest Blogger- My Sister Natalie Bolton

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Let me start off by saying that I am here to write about beauty-this is my agreed upon agenda. And as a licensed esthetician, I know a thing or two about beauty. So here we go…

I’m Natalie. I am your typical girl, well, to be clear; I am your typical tomboy slash girl. Growing up I would fight with my mother to wash my hair, and all hell would break loose if she caught me digging out my dirty clothes from the hamper to do the trusty “re-wear”.

So it’s actually a little funny that I am here to talk beauty, but life has its beautiful twists and turns.

As a kid, I would watch my big sister do her (what I thought to be mystical and enigmatic) fashion and make-up rituals. It was as if I was watching spirits being called down in a Native American fire dance or something. It was just so mysterious to witness for someone such as myself that was more of the likes of perfecting the art of rounding third base. She was so sophisticated and graceful.  As I got older I started to see other kinds of beautiful as well.

And it had nothing to do with product, the latest miracle whatever or overpriced red-bottomed shoes.

It all started when I was 13 traveling the world as a missionary. I was part of a team that helped build homes, provide and prepare food, and gave clothing to families in need. I was able to see through all the barriers and experience the beauty in these people for who they were, how they lived, and the texture of their struggle, which made them beautiful.

As I was doing my best to bring solace to these less fortunate, they also provided me with something-an exhilarating joy and peace that only comes from serving others and giving back.

Cut to a few months back, I had the privilege of performing a facial treatment on a new client. She was a tiny woman with the biggest, sweetest spirit. I walked back in the treatment room from allowing her to change before the service, and was shocked to see that she had removed her wig. Her hair was wiry, patchy, and grayed in some spots-but I didn’t react or comment. I draped her hair like I would at the start of any facial and simply began. She was gripping the wig in her hands to the point that her knuckles could arguably have been turning white. I then sensed that this wig must have become such a protective piece of armor. And it was in this moment my heart was touched by her. By the end of the facial she was no longer gripping her wig. She had trusted me and was completely relaxed and was able to fall asleep -so much so, that she was snoring sweetly. 

I felt honored to be able to provide service for this woman (who was a cancer survivor as she explained to me later). The uncomfortable realization that I have never had to sit in a doctor’s office to receive a life threatening diagnosis stirred something inside me. It hit me like a runaway train. I have never had to walk in those shoes, and yet, my experience with her for this brief time was completely life affirming. She touched me. I’m not really even sure why. As my client she was kind and thankful for my service and extremely pleasant. She was so beautiful on the inside in spite of the remaining effects of her pain. So beautiful in what she had endured. In that moment she was beautiful to me. She brought back for me the feeling I had serving others in those far away lands. The feeling of connecting with another human being came back to me with such a fierce familiarity. 

And once again I am experiencing the glorious confusion of who is actually being of service to whom. She made a difference in my life.  I will never forget that exchange.

Living in the land of the “beautiful people” I know that beauty comes in many forms, but I strongly believe it all starts from within. The mandate for my life is not only bringing beauty to people by external means with new technologies, and cutting-edge technique, my goal is to also refresh the spirit. I pray every morning to bring beauty to the spirit of everyone I touch-so they leave feeling more beautiful and at peace after they leave me. I want to live my life like that as well.

I want to leave the world more beautiful than when I found it.

Shifting gears a bit; I feel that one of the most important issues in the beauty industry today is the lie we believe about ourselves. We are inundated with the lie that we are not enough, and we believe it over and over again. Little girls are growing up feeling inadequate-too fat, too short, eyes are too big, nose not perfect…and these lies are dangerous. These lies are killing us. The beauty industry is a 59.8 billion dollar industry in the US alone. So it is clear we all desperately desire to see beauty through our view. And I am by no means trying to bring profit loss to this industry. BUT I think we can redirect the way people see themselves. We can reaffirm the beauty within us. We can embrace the inherited diversity that lies within and that is brought to life by existing with others. The difference that gives one little girl signature freckles and another little girl slanted almond shaped eyes IS the definition of beauty.

We need to re-approach the beauty industry from a place of celebration and not from a place of fear.

I find it my personal mission to be on the forefront of that redirection and reconnection to the beauty that exists in all of us.I am here to take a stand for every person I encounter to help transform his or her negative view.  And I have no problem doing it one by every single one.

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Natalie is a board certified licensed esthetician and the owner of Corpus Dei Perfumes, which retails in Los Angeles (www.corpusdeiperfumes.com). Her creative cup runneth over as she feels it is a blessing to be able to combine her skincare credentials with her nutrition background, and ultimately tie in her knowledge of essential oils all for the result of healing, beautifying and ultimate personal enrichment. Natalie truly feels that our body is our temple. We must create the space for us to want to come sit within ourselves and attract others to want to visit as well.

Any questions, comments or information on Natalie:

www.nataliebolton.com

www.corpusdeiperfumes.com

facebook: msnataliebolton

twitter: msnataliebolton

instagram: shetalkstoangelsrunswithwolves

Email: Natalie@nataliebolton.com

SOS BEACH BAG GIVEAWAY {Thank You to my YouTube Channel}

Tiff_HaydenReis1 copy{Large “DITTY” Tote $144}

Hey Fabulous Ones!

There are so many reasons to celebrate these days… my YouTube Channel reaching 10K subscribers, August is here (my all time favorite month) and we’re ALIVE + FABULOUS! You know the way I love to celebrate is by giving cool stuff away. The beach bag giveaways have become very popular over the past few years and this year SOS has partnered with an amazing bag line based out of Florida called Hayden Reis to bring you the best beach bag giveaway yet! I love spoiling my community with the latest + greatest, plus I get the chance to promote my hubby and sister in their endeavors! This giveaway is valued at $300. Woop Woop!

WATCH THIS…

 

Here’s what is in the bag: (plus a few surprises)

AHP_ep

www.aaronhendra.com

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corpus_dei_pool1/2 ounce  perfume oil concentrate roll-on – $75

http://www.corpusdeiperfumes.com

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http://www.sexyfitfab.com

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http://www.siabotanics.com

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http://www.gillettevenus.com

DETAILS TO ENTER:

1. Must be a subscriber of my YouTube Channel.
2. Like my sister’s FB page- https://www.facebook.com/corpusdeiperfumes
3. Like the Hayden Reis FB page- https://www.facebook.com/HaydenReis
4. Stay on the Hayden Reis FB page and post a comment letting us know what your #1 beach bag essential is.

WINNER ANNOUNCED ON THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL + THE SOS FACEBOOK PAGE ON FRIDAY, AUG 9th!

Good Luck and Thank You from the bottom of my heart for being part of this community.

Love, Tiff

 

SWEET SWAG + A SUMMER DILEMMA SOLVED

Hello Summer Babies!

Hope you are all enjoying the fun, summer swag bag giveaways as much as I am.  I want to take a moment and give a BIG shout out to our fabulous sponsors-THEY ROCK!  This is what’s in the bag this week:

1. COLOUR COUTURE SUNLESS TANNING (one product)

2. LUSCIOUS SOUL- Eclectic Boutique

3. SIA BOTANICS (one product)

4. BEAUTY SPRINKLES VITAMIN COCKTAIL MASK (one package contains 3 masks)

{Remember to participate in the giveaways you must be a subscriber to this blog and part of the FACEBOOK COMMUNITY

Simply make comments on the FB page and join in on the fun convo’s!  See you there}

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ARE YOU ALREADY SICK OF THE HEAT?

Growing up in the very hot, muggy + humid city of Houston, Tx– I know all about how uncomfortable extreme heat can be and how it puts a damper on our beauty routine! Here’s a few tips I’ve found to stay comfy + feeling clean during this time of year:

1. Keep the chaffing under control with a cornstarch based powder: GOLD BOND Medicated Powder and/or JOHNSON’S Cornstarch w/ Aloe + Vit E.  Apply a light dusting of the powder on inner thighs, under arms and under the edges of your bra.

2. Cooling spray for overheated or sunburned skin. Make with distilled water, a few drops of tangerine essential oil, aloe juice and a few drops of vit E oil. Keep in a spray bottle in the fridge.

3. Best workout gear to keep the outdoor fitness junkie’s cool + comfortable during the summer heat: ATHLETA’S “hot yoga” line of workout gear is designed with breathable fabrics for Bikram yoga- they style of yoga where the heater is cranked up for an added benefit to the body.  Perfect for staying comfy outdoors during summer too.

4. Many of us are in a swimsuit most of the summer. The pool chemicals plus a tight elastic band around the groin will create a rash, razor bumps and an all around uncomfortable feeling in your bikini.  Reduce razor burn and bumps with Bikini Zone (with lidocaine, salicylic acid, and aloe) to stay comfy in your bikini all summer long.

5. Tiger Balm or Icey Hot for staying comfy + cool in the heat.  Apply a dab or spritz on the inside of the wrists, back of neck and back of knees.   The menthol + eucalyptus has a lasting cooling effect.

6. Keep your feet comfy in sandals during the heat of summer by wearing sandals without a rubber insole.  Plastic or rubber flip flops add to the heat problem by making your feet sweat more.

7. Inbetween shampoos, use a dry shampoo to keep your hair smelling great and the extra sweat +oil under control.  I like TreSemme FreshStart and the one by John Freida. They’re both great and easy to find at most drugstores, target or walmart.

8.  My fave antiperspirant is Secret’s Outlast Clear Geland for women who prefer a natural brand, “Tom’s” is great too.

9. During summer switch from your usual alcohol-based perfume to an essential oil.  Our body chemistry changes during summer due to the heat so I HIGHLY recommend checking out my sister’s line of body oils called Corpus Dei .   She can even customize a personalized scent that works with your body chemistry.  Made with organic essential oils.

10. Stay hydrated! Drink more water than normal. I love to add cucumber and lemon slices for added nutrients.

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Please share these tips with your friends! Thank you for being part of the Style Sisterhood.

You are loved + adored, Tiff

P.S. Let’s finish out the week strong….

High Five to Julie Comeau

SOS Superstars,

I am so thrilled to share this inspirational story with all of you!  Julie Comeau and I connected on Facebook a few years ago and she asked me to be part of her motivational book which releases this year and is appropriately titled “NEVER GIVE UP”.  I am honored to be part of her journey and honored to call her friend.  Get ready to be inspired by this amazing woman!

“Never say you CAN’T, until you try. Transforming myself has been one of the most difficult things that I have ever had to do.  I have lived with a leg injury since 2005 because I was given the wrong surgery and I have never been fixed. Since my first survival story made newspapers and radio back in 1999, my husband was my strength and he helped helping me through my physical challenges.  Then December 28th of 2010, my husband was diagnosed with stage 3 gallbladder cancer.  I had to now be his strength through his physical journey although I was still injured. 

I had no clue where or how to start rehabilitating and transforming myself, until I saw an SOS post by the amazing Tiffany Hendra and Natalie Bolton with the 7 steps workout in the Spring of 2011.  This was my new challenge and goal to become stronger, not only for myself, but for those around me that needed my help!  I can honestly say that SOS saved my life because of the 7 steps webisode.  It doesn’t matter how big or small you are or if you can walk or if you can’t for I am living proof that anything is possible.  If I can say anything to you, it would be, MIND OVER MATTER and let your passion guide you!

If something in your life has impacted you to the point that you think that you cannot move forward…FOCUS on the things that you still can do and never on the things that you can no longer do. Remember that the only person in your life that can help you take that next step is……YOU!”

Author
Survivor
Motivational Speaker
~Julie Comeau~

{Before}

{After 2 months}

{November 2011}

{Watching the SOS webisode}

{WOOHOO- Julie now with that rockin’ bod}

HIGH FIVE JULIE! 

I am so proud of you and inspired by your courage and strength.  You and your hubby, Vince remain in our thoughts and prayers.  To connect and support Julie, join her FACEBOOK FAN GROUP!  I will post when her book releases so you can get a copy too.

Julie lost about 30 pounds over 2 months and has continued her new lifestyle of healthy eating and workout schedule all while caring for her husband and spending most of her days in and out of the hospital for his treatments.  If you would like to kick it into gear and get leaner for summer, check out these 7 exercises from my sister, Natalie:

Also, I’m excited to share my sisters signature fragrance line called CORPUS DEI. Click the image link to right of blog for more info and to shop online.  She can also develop your own scent for you!

All summer long, I will be giving away fun prizes from fabulous sponsors.  Specialty gifts and jewelry from a unique boutique here in Cali, organic skincare products, makeup AND MORE!  Can’t wait to share them all with you.  Only requirements to enter is you must be a subscriber to this blog and you must check in on the FACEBOOK PAGE on a regular basis and join the fun convo!

ARE YOU FOLLOWING ON TWITTER?

ARE YOU PINNING WITH ME ON PINTEREST?

Remember, you being the BEST you can be gives others permission to be the best they can be so never “dumby down” or allow others to dim your light.  You are here to shine as brightly as possible!  That’s one common purpose we ALL share. Let’s light up the world girls.

Get to shinin’!

Love, Tiff

Does your metabolism need a kick in the pants?

Metabolism, adrenal glands and especially hormones seem to be a popular topic between all my girlfriends in their 30’s.  Is it true that every 7 years we ladies should expect our hormones to change and go haywire?  WHAT THE HECK?   I am finding it more and more difficult to keep my metabolism and energy levels up.  You?

I am often asked what my fitness & health “program” is and I want to share a few quick tips I have found to give my metabolism a good kick in the pants!

First, consider doing a cleanse or detox.  Our bodies can become very acidic which wrecks havoc on our metabolism!  I have discussed a candida cleanse that I did and had great results.  See my previous blog and webisode.

1.  Drink a glass of water right when you wake up. (Before you drink your cup of joe) After a nights sleep, we have toxins just sitting in our body.  This flushes them out and prepares your body for the day.

2. Protein shake for breakfast. (Remember breakfast means “break the fast”.  During sleep, our bodies go into a “fasting” mode so it’s vital to never skip breakfast.  Skipping breakfast slows down your metabolism.)

-8 oz of water
-1 scoop of Whey Protein Powder
-1/2 banana
-Sprinkle of flax seeds
-Super red powder (pom, acai, blueberry, etc..) OR Super green powder (broccoli, kale, green tea, etc..)
-Big dash of cayenne pepper

3. Drink water, water and more water!   Staying hydrated speeds up your metabolism.  Our mind and organs, as well as our cells- function better!  Live, alkaline water or at least water that has minerals added is the best!   Random bottled water has absolutely no hydrating benefits to your body.

4. Eat small meals every 3 hrs.   I call it “grazing”.   Never skip meals!   Our  body shuts down and actually holds on to the fat.

5. Start taking EFA’s (essential fatty acids: omegas, flax, borgage) Helps with adrenal and thyroid activity which effects your metabolism.

6.  Cutting out sugar, wheat,  gluten, alcohol and dairy.  Yes, that sounds harsh but you will see a huge difference in your energy!  You do not have to deprive yourself forever and I certainly love my glass of wine, but these things must be limited during a detox.   I know it sounds redundant, but EAT MORE FRUITS & VEGGIES!

7.  Move More!   Powerwalk around the block.  Dance in your living room.   Keeping active will ensure a healthy metabolism.

PLEASE CAUTION!  THIS IS WHAT I FOUND WORKS FOR ME!  PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN BEFORE TAKING CERTAIN SUPPLEMENTS IF YOU ARE DIABETIC OR PREGNANT!

My wish is for you all to feel healthy, strong & powerful!   Comment and let me know if you are dealing with a lazy metabolism or if you have a great health tip to share with us.

xoTiff

BEST FACIAL IN BEVERLY HILLS: Motykie MedSpa

HEY GORGEOUS GIRLS!  

Are you having a fun summer so far?  I sure hope so.  Remember this time of year can be especially harsh on your skin so please remember to never leave home without your SPF.

If you’re skin is in need of some pampering, I am excited to introduce you to BEST FACIAL IN BEVERLY HILLS!  In the latest SOS webisode, you will see my fav facial, THE HYDRFACIAL up close.   Also, the beautiful Brooke Barlow shares her tips for summertime skincare:

  • LHR, Laser Hair Removal
  • IPL Photofacial
  • Latisse

CHECK IT OUT:

A very special thanks to Kevin Motykie, Dr. Gary Motykie, Jackie Mapile, Trisha Gilbert, Heather Tindell, Natalie Bolton and Amy Lindsay.

REMEMBER: “Take caution when deciding on any cosmetic procedure. Research the MedSpa & make sure you are treated by a well trained Registered Nurse.  Botox is not for everyone, but I’m very open about the wonderful procedures and people that have made a difference in my life”.

Sharing the beauty, style + inspiration,

xoTiff

WHAT’S UNDER YOUR CLOTHES?

WATCH NEW WEBISODE  (Beware, if you have a young son hanging around the computer…you may want to watch this when he’s not around)

You know I LOVE talking about clothes, shoes, accessories and all that jazz, but what we have on UNDERNEATH our fabulous outfit is just as important.   The undergarment business is huge with more selection than ever!

  • In order for your tops to fit their best, you must wear the appropriate bra! 
  • For that beautiful dress to flow just right on your hips and accent the silhouette, you should wear Spanx or some sort of Shapewear.  
  • For low-slung jeans,  you should wear panties that lay flat on your skin and have a lower rise in the crotch. 
  • For the sundress that you can’t wear a bra with, you have a few options for self-adhesive covers.

Our bodies, our boobies and our booties come in all shapes and sizes so find what works best for you!   I’m giving you a rundown of my fav’s and what works for me.   As I always say, “take it all with a grain of salt” because what works for one does not work for all.  If you have found a fabulous bra or lingerie piece, PLEASE COMMENT + SHARE WITH US!

COMING UP:

We’re taping some fabulous + fun new webisodes throughout June! 

I’m excited to introduce you to makeup artist Vio Meyners of Violetartistry,

Singer/songwriter Lauren de Miranda,

Marcy Guevara from VH1’s Your Cut Off & Marcy the Matchmaker and

I’ll be interviewing the fabulous Trisha Gilbert, Licensed Aesthetician at Motykie MedSpa’s Night Of Beauty.  I’m so excited for her to show you my fav facial, the HYDRAFACIAL!  It rocks!

 

 

This lil light of mine…I’m gonna let it shine..sing with me!

xoTiff

P.S…

How are you doing on the Slimmer Summer Shapeup?  The 4th of July is around the corner.

Did you dust off your goals or start a vision board?

Have you entered to win the SOS Summer Beach Bag full of Salerm Cosmetics, my sister’s oil- Corpus Dei and and MORE!!!  If not check out the blog post from June 1st.



ANNOUNCING THE SOS BEACH BAG GIVEAWAY!

Are you as excited as I am that summer has arrived?  To kick it off,  we’re creating a monstrous SOS BEACH BAG to give to one fabulous SOS fashionista!

WHAT’S INSIDE THE BAG?

  • A bottle of my sister’s exclusive essential oil based parfume called CORPUS DEI.  Her very own creation!   During the summer it’s great to wear an oil instead of a heavy alcohol cologne/parfume because our body temp’s are constantly changing going from the heat of the outdoors to the A/C indoors.  Don’t you notice your parfume turns funny on your skin in the summer?  Try an essential oil instead!
  • Several products from SALERM COSMETICS including an awesome SPF 20 body spray, UV hair protector and fun summer nail polish colors!

  • PLUS, the Super Greens & Maca Powder that I’ve been raving about, Voluminous Waterproof Mascara, a great summer read and MUCH MORE!
  • We’ve added a great fun, summer read by http://www.deborahcloyed.com called “The Summer We Came To Life” recommended by my sis.

TO ENTER: 

You have a bit of homework, but it’s just 4 simple tasks! 

  1.  Click like on the SOS Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryofstyle
  2.  Subscribe to the SOS blogsite http://sanctuaryofstyle.net
  3.  Click like to the Salerm facebook  page https://www.facebook.com/Salerm.Cosmetics.International
  4.  Once you’ve completed the first 3 tasks, post a comment on the SOS facebook  page  saying “I WANT THE SOS SUMMER BEACH BAG” 
One winner will be chosen and announced before the 4th of July!
 
Pass along to your fashionista friends and hope you have a rockin’ summer you little beach bunny:-)
Sharing the love + style, Tiff