by Annette @ Wellness WA | Mar 30, 2011 | Food, Products, Wellness Tips
♥ Cherry lurve! ♥
I’ve been wanting to write this post for ages and have now missed most of the Summer cherry season – noooo! Thankfully, these little red nutrient filled gems are also available in many local supermarkets in the freezer section if you can’t find them in the fresh produce area!
Frozen cherries ahoy!
So why have I been so keen to chat about cherries? Well let me enlighten you a little…
♥ Cherries are chockas full of antioxidants, which if you haven’t heard, are SUPER DOOPER little guys that cruise around your body, kickin’ bad stuffs ass, reducing inflammation and stopping cell damage, which in turn lower our risk of cancer and diseases of the brain and heart (+ much more).
♥ Antioxidants are also super heroes for the skin. Eating lots of antioxidant rich food, such as cherries and blueberries, can increase your bodies defense against sunburn. FACT!
♥ Great to have after workouts, as apparently they contain an anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe sore muscles. WINNERS!!!
♥ Possible benefits in the fight against ageing. Free radicals contribute to wrinkles, antioxidants neutralise wrinkles, cherries contain antioxidants. I’m no mathematician, but it looks like it adds up š
♥ And possibly most importantly, the great thing about cherries is that they are delicious and contribute to your overall wellbeing!
This photo makes me go om nom nom
So now we need some mouth-watering recipes for you to try! Do let me know if you end up testing out any of these š
♥ Healthy Cherry Muffins! YUM!
♥ Cherry Smoothie – I would personally have this without the yoghurt, there are lots of variations that could be made.
♥ CHERRY BRUSCHETTA – !!!!!!!!!!!!!! Conor over at Hold the Beef tried this and loved it.
So there’s a few options to get you drooling, let me know how you go.
Do you have a fave cherry recipe you’d like to share?
Be well,
Annette
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Mar 29, 2011 | Products, Reviews
♥ Ain’t no party like a Kiehl’s club party! ♥
Kiehl’s. Since 1851. EIGTHTEEN FIFTY ONE. These guys have got looking after your face down to a fine art. So how are they helping the modern gal quash her skincare concerns? Letās find outā¦
Kiehl’s Supremely Gentle Eye Makeup Remover – $36
I have a very real fear of getting things in my eye that will burn excessively, but recently I was involved with a project that meant I had to wear a lot of heavy eye makeup 6 nights a week and I knew that I was going to have to do something, nay USE something, to get it off. So I tried Kiehlās Supremely Gentle Eye Makeup Remover with much hesitation and told those around me that if it hurt I would hurl the bottle out the nearest window with the intensity of a thousand suns.
Of course, my dear logical reader, there was no hurling. The lightweight formula doesnāt smell, doesnāt sting, doesnāt burn, doesnāt HURT. It seems completely free of the things that would lead to causing irritation in the eye or the delicate skin around the eye. Now you might be wondering with all this delicacy and cucumber and apricot kernel oil – does it actually work? You bet your eyes it does. A little on a tissue or cotton ball completely removes the make up from your eyelids and eye lashes. And in my case eyebrows as well (I told you it was HEAVY makeup).
I’m in ur makeup cupboard, testin ur productz.
And for those contact lens wearers – completely safe for you too. You can rest assured knowing its Ophthalmologist tested (see image above). This product easily does the job without causing any discomfort or pain.
Kiehlās Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion – $84.
This no pain, max results thing seems to be a reoccurring theme with the Kiehlās crew, because I am in full-blown love with Kiehlās Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion. Itās a super duper exfoliator that you have complete control over. Squeeze out a small ānickel sizedā amount and apply it to your clean, damp skin in circular motions. Wait – if feels too rough! Then just go easier! Wait – Iāve had enough! Then just stop! See? You ARE in control. My skin felt cleaner, clearer, smoother and better without any makeup on it, which for me is always the benchmark of a product doing its job superbly.
I guess I really lost sight of how important exfoliation is after a bad Micro Dermabrasion experience at a salon. But not getting rid of the dead skin cells, product build up and other things that get in the way of good skin can contribute to bad skin no matter how much you cleanse it. Iām sorry I have neglected exfoliating my face for the past couple of years but it is back and boy oh boy it is great.
Kiehlsā Double Strength Wrinkle Filler (Available on Kiehl’s counters)
And finally we have the Kiehlsā Double Strength Wrinkle Filler, espousing to fill those wrinkles and lines you may wish werenāt there. Now, Iām a long way off from what is maybe the desired clientele of this product BUT Iām a smile-y kind of person, and continually creasing my face in the same place in the same way is starting to show.
Did this instantly fill my lines? No. Did it improve the condition of my skin in terms of elasticity and how moisturized and smooth it felt? Absolutely yes. Would I keep using it? Yes again. Because better skin condition of those areas that do get a work out (facially speaking) will surely lead to a reduced appearance of fine lines. And short of invasively having them filled with something from the inside, I think taking care of the outside is a smarter, safer and much more enjoyable bet. Good one Kiehls.
Reviews by Adriane Daff, dream babe extraordinaire.
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Mar 28, 2011 | Interviews
♥ First up, briefly tell us a little bit about yourself!
I grew up and went to school in a country town in South Australia. I was never much of a country girl though and couldn’t wait to move to the city when I started university. At uni, I met my fiance and grew even more interested in fashion, so I began blogging as Le Blog de Sushi. After finishing my degree in Graphic Design, I moved to Melbourne with my fiance last year. I’m currently working at a clothing store, freelancing as a Graphic Designer and blogging to my heart’s content.
Cellnique Derma Whitening Essence (price unknown)
♥ Tell us about your daily beauty routine.
In the mornings I just quickly cleanse my face and use Cellnique Derma Whitening Essence (which I’m currently trialling) before applying Avon tinted moisturiser, Inglot primer and daily makeup. In the evenings I cleanse with water and a microfibre cloth and use:
– Nivea Visage Purifying Toner
– Cellnique Derma Whitening Essence
– Mayaltha Naturopthic Better Eyes Cream
Currently I’m also trialling Cellnique’s Advanced Bio Renewal Masque, which I use 2-3 times a week.
♥ What’s the one beauty treatment you can’t live without? And your favourite place to have it done?
I’m really loving the Cellnique Advanced Bio Renewal Masque. It leaves my skin really, really soft and does a great job of exfoliating from the comfort of my own home.
♥ Who do you trust with your hair in Melbourne, and why?
After several traumatising visits to different hairdressers in the past, the only person I trust with my hair is myself. I trim and colour it at home. My favourite ammonia-free hair dye is Naturestyle 4N Natural Chestnut.
♥ Favourite budget / at home beauty treatment?
My practical favourite would be Nair’s Cream Hair Bleach. I use this every 4 months or so to bleach my arm hair. I have very pale skin but dark hair so being able to camouflage it makes me happy!
♥ Your three, absolutely cannot live without, favourite products?
Number one is Softlips lipbalm in Vanilla. I get very dry lips (currently made worse by my braces) and I always carry a tube of this lipbalm with me – it’s a life saver!
The second product, which I use every day and would hate to go without is the Avon tinted moisturiser (ideal for very fair skin like mine as it contains SPF).
And thirdly, Sally Hansen’s Triple Strong clear nail laquer, which keeps my nails strong and protected from splitting.
Semi-Matte Base – $12 USD
♥ Do you have any secret tips you use to keep looking / feeling great?
Everyday Minerals mineral makeup has made a huge difference to my everyday routine. I love the Semi-Matte Base because it literally only takes a minute to apply and it gives my skin a lovely, airbrushed glow. I also recommend their blushes (Apple gives a gorgeous flushed glow) and the Flat Top Kabuki brush for even, full coverage.
♥ What beauty treatment/ wellbeing activity would you love to try but haven’t yet? (Due to time, money, scared etc!)
I would like to get a facial (I’ve never had one!). The reason for this is that I’ve always suffered from acne prone skin so I’ve felt too embarrassed to go anywhere without makeup on. Thanks to going on the pill last year and switching makeup brands (I was using MAC but am now devoted to Everyday Minerals and will never go back!), my skin has cleared up really well so it’s something I’d like to try soon.
♥
♥ Describe a typical day of eating for you.
My breakfasts are very predictable; I always have a cup of coffee and a slice of rye toast. The rest of the day varies greatly, I usually just eat whatever I feel like. If possible, one of my meals will be Sushi, as this is my number one favourite food! For snacks I usually have a banana or muesli bar, and a few nights a week dinner will be grilled fish or chicken with roast potato and salad.
♥ Describe your fitness routine.
Before I moved to Melbourne, I had a gym membership and would go to the gym 2-3 times per week. At the moment I’m not exercising at all except for walking/being on my feet all day when working. I really want to find a good gym to join soon though as exercising always make me feel better.
Sunshine in a bottle.
♥ Do you take part in any alternative therapies or take supplements? If so, discuss.
At the moment I’m not taking anything. During the winter months I like to take Vitamin D tablets to make up for the lack of sunlight. The Blue Bonnet Chewable Vitamin D3 tablets taste great for those like me who don’t like swallowing pills!
♥ How do you like to relax? What are your favourite ways to de-stress?
My favourite way to relax and de-stress is to curl up in bed with a good book and just forget about everything for a while.
Sushi is my web & graphic designer, even though she’s not from Perth she is a mega cutie and worthwhile interviewee, hope you enjoyed!
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Mar 25, 2011 | Interviews
Dr Joe Kosterich
♥ First up, briefly tell us a little bit about yourself!
I am a father, doctor, author, speaker and media commentator and TV presenter. I have a regular spot on 6PR Tuesday mornings after 10am news and publish a weekly newsletter from http://www.drjoe.net.au. In early April I’m doing a series of stories for Today Tonight.
JK Secret Triple Action Booster – RRP $69
♥ Tell us about your daily beauty / wellness routine.
I get 8 hours sleep each night and will catch up on any deficit on the weekend. I eat mainly non processed food, but do not make this a religion. I use the JK Secret Cosmeceutics Triple Action Booster at night. Make sure that I laugh each day. Meditate a few days a week – aiming for everyday. Regular exercise.
♥ What’s the one beauty / wellness treatment you can’t live without? And your favourite place to have it done?
I do like a good back massage at Subiaco Sports Massage Clinic.
♥ Who do you trust with your hair in Perth, and why?
Davilia at Floreat Forum. As a bloke I do value convenience. They are close to home, do a good job, you rarely have to wait long and it is not a rip off.
♥
♥ Favourite budget or at home beauty / wellness treatment?
Sounds lateral, but meditation helps de-stress so helps wellness and is free. I am not a purist of any one “school” I like the downloaded mediations from Deepak Chopra because they are easy. Davidji who is the head of mediation at Chopra reckons people make it too hard, and the key is slowing the mind with slow breathing. Using a mantra like “so… hum…” helps. The most important thing is to just do it and not get caught up in doing it “right”.
♥ Your four, absolutely cannot live without, favourite products?
1. Brooks running shoes
2. Downloaded meditations from Chopra.com – Ed’s note: I checked these out and they are fantastic!
3. Angry Almond at Subi Markets who sell raw nuts dried fruits and seeds (I make up my own little mix)
4. My home water filter.
♥ Do you have any secret tips you use to keep looking / feeling great?
Another lateral one, but enjoying what you do is vital. You feel and look better when you are happy and content!
♥ What beauty treatment / wellbeing activity would you love to try but haven’t yet? (Due to time, money, scared etc!)
Would like to do one of those one week retreats with massage meditation and juices no phone etc. Finding a whole week is the barrier.
Breaky.
♥ Describe a typical day of eating for you.
Breakfast is two eggs scrambled and a piece of rye toast. Lunch varies. Typically some protein (meat or fish) with salad either by itself or in a roll and some fruit.
Mid afternoon some nuts and seeds and a little dried fruit (mixed up in a glad bag). Dinner varies eg Fish/chicken with veg and potatoes, or a curry with rice or pasta. Use olive oil. Minimise food with “numbers”. A few days a week I will have a small sweet treat and a glass of wine some nights. About 2.5 -3L water through the day.
♥ Describe your fitness routine.
Two days running 6-8 km in 35-45 mins. I have 3 circuits, one is along the coast at City Beach in a loop from home, one is in Bold Park along the Zamia trail and the third is from City Beach down to Floreat Forum and back also in a loop. Two days weights in the gym with a trainer and some stretching.
♥ Do you take part in any alternative therapies or take supplements? If so, discuss.
I take a fish oil as I don’t always get 2.7 serves of fish each week. I take Juice Plus which is a fruit and veg concentrate (again getting the right amount 365 days a year is not always possible) and an antioxidant.
♥ How do you like to relax? What are your favourite ways to de-stress?
Meditation (10 -15 mins) helps. I love to run (or walk) along the beach. The ocean is very calming. Playing with my kids and laughing at stuff (cartoons, comedies) – you cant stress when you laugh.
You can find Dr Joe on Facebook & Twitter.
Any questions & comments please leave them below!
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Mar 23, 2011 | Exercise, Products, Reviews
FitFlop Footwear.
When I was asked to try the thong sensation, FitFlop Footwear, for a Wellness WA review I was wary. Subjecting myself to hours of training for triathlon, could a pair of thongs really make a difference to my leg tone? I was the wrong person for the job until FitFlops PR whizz Dani found out the extent of my training and my current thong of choice.
Iām not one to name names, but letās just say my current thongs are sexy, black and speak with a Portuguese accent. And I think they look super cute. However these flat-based beauties werenāt the best support act for my training shoes and work heels. Unfortunately, Iām prone to foot injuries and the strain of pounding the footpath frequently leads to the dastardly plantar fasciitis (a common running injury that occurs when the plantar fascia band, running along the arch of the foot, gets inflamed and can lead to severe heel pain).
Aside from the scientifically proven ability to increase leg muscle activation by 10-12% and bottom muscle by up to 30%, the āMicrowobbleboardā technology has also indicated in recent study to reduce shock upon impact.
FitFlops Pietra in Pewter – $129
When the shoes arrived in the office late on a Monday afternoon, I eyed them critically. I was given the patent leather Pietra model in pewter that features three resin jewels on the toe strap and before I slipped them on I noted how big they looked. The soles are very chunky and nothing like the streamlined thongs I was used to ā could I really pull off such a look?
The answer was known as soon as I slipped my tired feet into them. It was like collapsing on to a freshly laundered, fluffy pillow at the end of a long day and the girls in the office cheered as I used the reception area as a catwalk. Once on, the resin jewels take over and the chunky style diminishes underfoot, simply providing a well-needed height boost for my 5 foot 4 frame. Iāve since had far more comments on how good they look than I did for their Brazilian cousins.
Like this, for your feet!
Iāve been wearing my new shoes for the past four weeks for up to two kilometres each day. My husband cracks up every time I wear them because apparently the spring in my step is notable. Funnily enough, any time I see a fellow FitFlop wearer I notice a certain bounce to their step too and smile in recognition. My feet feel just the same ā joyful.
The plantar fasciitis is still knocking on the door and I ice my feet regularly after long runs, but my new shoes are definitely part of my injury-prevention routine and so far, so good – Iāve kept the injury at bay (knock on wood).
As for the claims of leg and butt toning, university studies in London have backed them 100% and similar shoes by Reebok and New Balance have been forced to pull their ads in the UK for making similar claims. So they seem to be the real deal in that respect too.
He’s got happy feet too š
But for me, Iām just happy with gloriously comfortable walks to work and when the boss isnāt looking, I slip my feet right out of those calf-screaming high heels and into my little foot pillows under the desk.
They can be found online at B Store or in-store at David Jones and Foot Locker.
Have you tried Fit Flops?
Are your feet happy or unhappy?
Do you like dancing penguins?
Feel free to chat about any of these topics in the comments!
Review by Lisa O’Neill, a freelance journalist and part-time triathlete who loves to squeeze in as much pampering as possible in her free time.
Be well,
xoxo
