by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 12, 2012 | Alternative Therapy, Products, Reviews
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3 fruit + 5 veg = Juice Plus+
Modern life can be busy, stressful and unbalanced. And everyone wishes they had a little bit more time and energy, right? It seems though, that no matter how much time you have to relax, there is always that “little extra something” that could perk you up even more. I’m sure a coffee or a glass of wine is coming to mind for most readers right now, (it’s just hit 5.00 pm as I write this actually and I could do with some vino…), but, what if you could take a couple of supplements a day that provided you with your daily nutritional requirements? Juice Plus+ does just that.
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Based on whole food based nutrition, which includes juice powder concentrates from 17 different fruits, vegetables and grains, Juice Plus+ is the perfect complement to a healthy diet. It is a simple and effective way to add more nutrition from fruits and veggies to your diet and from what I’ve experienced, is a sure fire way to get some energy back in your life!
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When I started using the supplements, I was in the midst of my last semester at uni so naturally, the stress of studying had resulted in me ditching my healthy eating habits, and instead favouring sugary snacks to keep me company during my late night study sessions. Not only was I eating unhealthily, I was up late finishing assignments and studying, which in effect, resulted in me sleeping and/or lazing around when I was taking a break from study. This unhealthy cycle was immediately stopped in its tracks after Juice Plus+ landed in my hot little hands! It’s claim, “The next best thing to eating fruits and vegetables”, and is it? I’d say it’s pretty close!
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I started taking two fruit supplements in the morning and two vegetable supplements in the evening to complement my daily intake of fruit and veggies, and within two weeks I noticed better energy levels (not as sluggish in the morning) and glowing, clear skin! Unfortunately I came down with a cold not long after I started taking the supplements, but noticed a significantly reduced recovery time due to my extra boost of vitamins and minerals ☺
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Juice Plus+ is now a part of my daily wellness routine. It has made me realise how much more valuable it is than other supplements and vitamins, as I have actually been able to see results. I have always been a big fruit and veggie eater but really like being able to up my intake of vitamins and minerals if I haven’t been able to get enough some days. For those who struggle to get their 3 fruit and 5 veg, Juice Plus+ is definitely a great option. I will always prioritise getting my fresh fruit and veg though – nothing compares!
Check out local seller Sarah’s Juice Plus+ page for more information on the product, and how to buy! 🙂
Have you ever tried Juice Plus+ or a fruit and veggie supplement? Would you like to? Leave a comment below!
Review by Lucy Anderson, Juice Plus+ Convert!
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 7, 2012 | Food, Products, Wellness Tips
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The rumours are true… Chocolate is good for you!
But I’m not talking about your highly processed Kit Kats, Crunchies and Boost bars, I’m referring to the raw stuff!
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♥ What Is Cacao
Raw cacao powder is less processed than commercial cocoa powder and therefore maintains the remarkable enzyme and nutrient content of the cacao bean.
Pure raw chocolate is antioxidant-rich and contains NO added nasties such as genetically modified soy-lecithin, dairy products or refined sugar- ingredients that are often found in highly processed commercial cocoa products.
♥ Health Benefits of Raw Cacao Powder
Raw cacao contains an impressive list of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, iron, chromium, manganese, zinc, copper, vitamin C, phosphorus and calcium. In addition it also provides an array of antioxidants including polyphenols, catechins, epicatechins and flavanoids (all good things!) – 14 times more antioxidants then red wine, and 21 times more than green tea!
Still not convinced!? Cacao is also mood-enhancer. In short, it plays an important role in the synthesis of serotonin (making you happy and relaxed), that’s a big tick from me!
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♥ Ways To Incorporate Raw Cacao Powder Into Your Diet
Incorporate raw cacao powder into your diet by using it as a substitute for any chocolate-based recipe that calls for processed cocoa powder. Use it in baking recipes, add it to chocolate smoothies or use it to make raw chocolate goodies. Alternately just eat raw chocolate! Substitute your 3pm Mars Bar for a few squares of the raw stuff (Try Loving Earth’s ‘Luvju’ range. Available in both “milk” and dark varieties. YUM!)
♥ Where To Find Raw Cacao Powder & Cost
Depending on the size, raw cacao powder can cost anywhere between $10-$20 (make sure you buy organic). It may seem expensive, but a little goes a long way! Most raw chocolate bars or blocks cost around $2.50-$8.00 (depending on size). Both raw cacao powder and raw chocolate are available at most health food shops or online. Luvju bars can also be purchased online through the Loving Earth website.
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♥ Recipe Time!
Home made chocolate is as easy as 1,2,3. No really, all you’ll need is 3 essential ingredients to form the basic chocolate recipe and then you can add whatever flavour combinations your heart desires. This recipe takes 20 minutes tops, from start to devour 😛 Choccie in a hurry anyone!?
I like to make mine spread out as a chocolate bark. Once set I then break it into pieces and store in a container in the fridge. It usually lasts about 1- 2 weeks (if I hide it well!). You could also pour the mixture into mini moulds and make little individual chocolates.
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Raw Coconut, Berry & Pistachio Chocolate
Basic Ingredients:
♥ 1/2 cup cacao butter
♥ 3/4 cup cacao powder
♥ 1 Tbs coconut sugar (can be omitted for sugar free)
Additions:
♥ 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
♥ 1/2 cup dried berries (I used mulberries, goji berries and cranberries but you could use whatever you like)
♥ 1/2 cup pistachios
Directions:
1. Prepare a baking tray lined with baking paper (make sure you can get it into your freezer)
2. Very gently melt the cacao butter over a low heat until melted
3. Add in cacao powder, coconut sugar, coconut and whisk to combine (ensuring smooth and no lumps)
4. Pour into lined baking tray and spread out with a spatula making it as thin or thick as you like (or pour into mini moulds)
5. Sprinkle berries and nuts on top
6. Place in the freezer to set roughly 15 mins
7. Break into small pieces and store in an airtight container in fridge
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Enjoy your new found favourite guilt-free treat!
Have you tried raw cacao powder before or tried raw chocolate? What did you think? Would LOVE to chat all things healthy choccie with you in the comments, so drop me a line below! 🙂
Article by Kavisha, self confessed ‘health foodie’ who believes a little dessert is good for the soul. She is currently studying for her Master of Wellness at RMIT University and blogs at Style My Coconut.
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Oct 26, 2012 | Organic, Products, Reviews
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Rahua Shampoo and Conditioner (for healthy, lustrous hair!)
Allow me to introduce the best non-conventional shampoo & conditioner yet. I was reluctant to be hopeful prior to trying this 100% organic, natural and sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner duo, having been promised the world with other good-for-you haircare ranges and experiencing lacklustre results. As such, some more generic and chemical-laden prods had sneakily made their way back into my routine. Until today!
The amber coloured, mildly scented Rahua Shampoo is a joyful first step. Many natural shampoos I’ve tried make the hair feel kind of ‘tacky’ when you first start using them after a period of using silicone-based haircare, but this just gets right down to work and feels just as smooth and silky on the hair as the bad stuff. Win!
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The Rahua Conditioner reminds me a bit of custard, and is equally easy to apply and rinse out. Leaving my hair silky soft (softer than most “normal” conditioners!), smooth and shiny. It also contains quinoa and coconut & shea butter!
In other feel good news, every purchase of Rahua products supports sustainable industry run by local Amazonian women.
This duo is a definite winner, and one I wouldn’t hesitate to use again and again! The only restricting factor is the cost, at $40 per bottle of both shampoo and conditioner, but I’d recommend that anyone who is interested in extremely high-quality organic haircare give this a go at least once! 🙂
Both products are available from the fabulous Flora Organica Natural & Organic Skin Apothecary!
What do you think? Have you tried Rahua before? Keen to make the switch from conventional to more healthy haircare? Comment below! X
Be well,
Annette
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Oct 24, 2012 | Alternative Therapy, Down South, Food, Massage, Yoga
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Picture a leisurely getaway, the gorgeous late spring warmth and sunshine on your skin as you take part in a beachside morning yoga class before revelling in the delicious heat of a detoxifying sauna, drinking a fresh green juice and then sinking into massage heaven and relaxing by the indoor or outdoor pool for the rest of the afternoon. Sound like much needed bliss?
Infrared Sauna = ultimate relaxation
You’d be forgiven for thinking I’m talking about a Balinese retreat. Thankfully this one is closer than you think! We are incredibly lucky to have Leisa from Embracing Health Retreats making the trip over to WA to host one of her world renowned 8 day ultimate wellness and relaxation retreats in Busselton from the 23rd of November til the 1st of December.
Leisa is a leading Australian naturopath, live and whole (raw) foods expert, fatigue specialist and detoxification expert who is dedicated to making you feel vibrantly alive and renewed during her retreats.
The retreat is being held at the local Grand Mercure Apartments at Geographe Bay, Busselton in November, and offers a week of fun, relaxation and world class health education.
An example of the amazing raw food that will be giving you loads of energy!
“My passion”, says Leisa, “is to bring together groups of people and teach them how they can use everyday foods to improve their health. With the rise of chronic diseases such as obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, there has never been a more important message than how what you eat can change your life.”
And changing lives is what the Embracing Life! Retreat is all about.
So what does this amazing oh-my-god-book-me-in-right-now retreat include?
♥ Luxury accommodation for eight nights
♥ All food and drinks from Friday evening to Saturday morning
♥ All activities including Yoga classes
♥ Two x one hour healing therapeutic massages
♥ Two food preparation classes with our Raw Food Chef Extraordinaire
♥ One magical Art Therapy or Sound Healing Class
♥ A Wu Tao Dance Class
♥ Unlimited use of Sunlight Sauna (bliss!)
♥ Unlimited use of resort facilities
♥ Options for booking extra Day Spa treatments and Colonic Irrigation where applicable
♥ All workbooks and lecture notes
♥ A gift bag on arrival containing lots of free goodies valued at over $100!
Check out the Embracing Health website for more details, including cost and how to book in!!
And tell me…
Have you ever been on a retreat before or wanted to? Did it change you in any way?
I’d love to hear from you! 🙂
Be well,
Annette
xoxo
This is a sponsored post.
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Oct 22, 2012 | Interviews, Wellness Tips
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♥ First up, briefly tell us a little bit about yourself!
Hi there! I’m a personal trainer, nutrition & lifestyle coach, actress/model and a blogger – all of which keeps me very busy and active! I only moved back home to Perth in April after living away for 13 years mostly in Sydney, Melbourne, South-East Asia and New York. It’s a refreshing change of speed being back in Perth and I absolutely love the climate and lifestyle here ☺
My blog, Life with Elizabeth Rose, is very much from my heart and covers lots of lifestyle topics to do with health & fitness, business and personal development. The tagline on my blog is “Dream. Create. Live with joy” – I’m always dreaming big, creating things & trying my hardest to live my life with happiness…my goal is to guide my readers and clients in doing the same with their lives, with a strong focus on health and well-being!
You can find me at Fitness First Platinum in Subiaco for personal and small group training. I’m about to run a boot camp at Cottesloe Beach beginning November 5th. I’m really looking forward to it and can’t think of a better way to start the day!
As an introductory offer, mention this interview and receive 10% off your first 4 weeks of training ☺. Register your interest at liz@lifewithelizabethrose.com
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♥ Tell us about your daily beauty routine.
I cleanse morning and night with Sukin Organics Cream Cleanser. I have very sensitive skin and find a cream cleanser to be the best! I haven’t used a toner for a few years now, and find my skin is fine without it!
I moisturize with Priori CoffeeBerry Natureceuticals Day and Night Complex which are both 98.5% natural. CoffeeBerry extract is nature’s most potent antioxidants to fight free radicals and the causes of skin aging, and it smells divine! If my skin is feeling particularly dry, I’ll add some Trilogy Rosehip Oil at night over my moisturizer.
For my eyes I use Aesop Parsely Cream Antioxidant Eye Cream…I’ve always used creams as opposed to serums for my eye area…I find my concealer goes on much easier too!
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♥ What’s the one beauty treatment you can’t live without? And your favourite place to have it done?
The Deluxe Skin Renewal Spa Treatment by Suzey Luong at Vanity Box! This is a superior boosting treatment incorporating a facial massage with a soothing balm and a replenishing mask that firms, hydrates and exfoliates your skin. It’s such a relaxing treatment and is like a natural botox! My skin hasn’t looked this flawless in years!
♥ Who do you trust with your hair in Perth, and why?
I go all the way up to Yanchep which is exactly an hour away from my place, so I can see the lovely Rachel Firmin who is from the UK. My Mum and Aunty see her as well, so it’s always a bit of a family affair! I love seeing Rachel as she always keeps up to date with the latest styles from London and she is so sweet and friendly and offers endless cups of tea.
Because she works from her home, having a cut and full head of foils costs me roughly half the price of going to a salon! You can contact Rachel on 0415049311.
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♥ Favourite budget / at home beauty treatment?
I’ve recently become an avid follower of Maria Hannaford’s blog, Econest, which is all about living life more sustainably! I love this easy and economical beauty treatment that Maria suggests…simply mash ½ an avo with a dash of milk and apply to a wet face – perfect as a skin conditioner and so simple!
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♥ Your three, absolutely cannot live without, favourite products?
1. Coconut oil – this medium chain fatty acid has so many amazing health benefits! I cook with it and sometimes use it as a face and body moisturizer, hair conditioner and shave my legs with it! You can even use coconut oil as a base of a natural deodorant.
2. Priori CoffeeBerry Mineral Perfecting Foundation 3 – It has the best coverage and loving the fact the packaging is eco-conscious.
3. INIKA – all natural certified organic mineral blush in rosy glow…I love all their products!
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♥ Do you have any secret tips you use to keep looking / feeling great?
I have a few!
1. Daily exercise is a must! I feel so much better after moving my body, even if it’s just a leisurely stroll outside in the fresh air.
2. Sleep! I aim for 7-8 hours but have been struggling with this lately! I’m terrible at falling asleep before 10pm but know I need to as I wake up so early! When I do get adequate sleep, the difference in my energy, mood and creativity is huge.
3. Nutritious, organic food and plenty of water! You are what you eat!
4. Taking time out for myself. I always feel so revitalized after a bit of “me time”.
5. Keeping a gratitude journal always makes me feel great! Every Tuesday I write my ‘LWER Tuesday’s Blessings’ with 5-10 things I’m grateful for on my Facebook page. I love it when people comment with their own gratitude list ☺
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♥ What beauty treatment/ wellbeing activity would you love to try but haven’t yet?
I’d luurve to do some kind of retreat in Ubud, Bali. I hear it’s amazing at Como Shambala, which advocates proactive holistic wellness, combining modern science with ancient healing.
I’d also love to do an Ayurvedic retreat at Deepak Chopra’s ‘Chopra Center’ in California.
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♥ Describe a typical day of eating for you.
I eat very closely to the Paleo Diet (and recommend this to most of my clients), which is a diet that closely resembles what our ancestors ate in the Paleolithic era. It’s basically very high in protein and good fats, with lots of low starch veggies, salads, nuts & seeds and fruits such as berries.
My day always starts with a tall glass of water with lemon juice, some powdered greens in water and a probiotic. I shower then for breaky I will always have some protein such as 2 eggs with smoked salmon and wilted spinach (no toast!).
Morning tea is usually a ‘mini meal’ which is basically a bit of what I prepared for lunch (I always make a little bit more so I have enough for a snack and lunch!), or my own trail mix of activated almonds, coconut flakes and goji berries.
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Lunch is protein of some sort with either a salad or steamed greens. Kale is my favourite at the moment! So good for you!
Afternoon tea is usually one of my superfood protein smoothies from my Super Smoothie Collection, that I have post workout or a green juice.
Dinner is either oven baked salmon with veggies or chicken and salad.
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And finally for supper I have herbal tea and blueberries with 2 tablespoons of organic full-cream greek yoghurt or occasionally 30g of dark organic chocolate such as Loving Earth’s ‘luvju’ coconut mylk raw organic chocolate…yum!
I get emails all the time from women wanting guidance on what to eat. I know it can be confusing and frustrating trying to decide what to cook and which foods to buy, so I recently put together two 7 day meal plans to help shape your bod for summer! They are available for sale on my blog: click here! For the next 48 hours I’m running a special price of $17 (down from $27) for Wellness WA readers if you use the code “LWER” when you purchase!
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♥ Describe your fitness routine.
I train with weights 3 times a week, practice yoga twice a week, and do interval training (HIIT) 2-3 times a week, plus I’m about to give pole dancing a go for a bit of fun! I like variety and my body does too ☺
♥ Do you take part in any alternative therapies or take supplements? If so, discuss.
I have an entire drawer in my kitchen that is filled with supplements! At the moment, I mostly take fish oil capsules, Vital Greens, a pre & probiotic, mega B and magnesium.
I’m a bit of a fan of alternative therapies, and have experimented with many in my pursuit of tip top health! I’ve been to naturopaths, homeopaths, Ayuvedic practioners and I’ve tried kinesiology and colonics, to name a few! I’m currently seeing a GP who specializes in nutritional medicine at Health Quest in Melville, and just had my first hair mineral analysis…I’m very interested in finding out the results!
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♥ How do you like to relax? What are your favourite ways to de-stress?
Oooh how I love relaxing! My fav ways include practicing yoga at Tamara Yoga, meditating, getting a massage/facial, or simply enjoying some quiet time at home watching a dvd.
If you have any questions about Elizabeth’s fantastic routine, please leave a comment below!
Make sure you check out her blog too!
Be well,
xoxo
