Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Natural face Cleanser!!! YAY!! THA SCRUBS!!

Sometime we need to get down and dirty with our faces. A specialty face cleanser made by YOU might be just the trick to stop blotched skin in its tracks. Exfoliation is key and below we will go over some Cool recipes that have ingredients that come right from the kitchen and Oh soo natural:)






Note: The scrubs listed work for all skin types, unless stated otherwise.





General Scrub Procedure



Tie hair back.

Wash face.

To open pores, steam face over hot water or press warm cloth to skin for a few minutes.

After preparing scrub, apply it to face (and neck if desired). Avoid eye area.

Optional: Use a facial loofah, sponge, or brush to maximize exfoliation.

Rinse off with warm water.

Enjoy results!

Basic Baking Soda Scrub

Perfect for everyday use.



2 to 3 Tbsp. Baking soda

Small amount of water



Mix the ingredients into a paste.

Using a circular motion, apply to face and gently scrub.



Basic Cornmeal Scrub

Slightly more potent than the baking soda scrub, this works best on a 2 to 3 day interval.



2 to 3 Tbsp. Cornmeal

Small amount of water



Mix and apply in the same manner as baking soda scrub.



Rose Almond Face Scrub

To brighten and soften skin.



1 tsp rosewater

1/2 tsp almond flour or finely ground almonds.



Mix into paste and apply.



Oatmeal Scrub

A stimulating, thoroughly cleansing 3-in-1 scrub!

Smooths, tones, and hydrates.



1 Tbsp. ground oatmeal (use steel cut oats, not instant)

1 tsp. lemon juice

2 tsp. yogurt



Combine and apply.

Optional: let your scrub double as a mask! Let it sit a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.



Azuki Bean Scrub

Banish your blackheads. Especially effective for combination and oily skin types.



½ cup dried azuki beans



Grind beans. (Having a small coffee grinder set aside specifically for beauty recipes is a wise idea).

Add a little water to the mixture and apply.



Milk and Honey Scrub

Maximize or minimize its moisturizing effect at will.



Choose your dairy:

1 tsp Skim Milk (Oily skin)

1 tsp 2% Milk (Normal or combination)

1 tsp Cream (Dry)



1 tsp honey

1 tbsp ground almonds



Banana Scrub

A very finely textured, delicious-smelling scrub. Can double as a mask.



2 tsp mashed banana

2 tsp rolled oats

1 tsp milk

1 tsp honey



Honey Sugar Scrub

If you have ever used a body sugar scrub, you know how amazing they are. Work the same magic on your face!



1 tsp. of honey

1/2 tsp. of sugar (either cane or brown — both work well)



Blend in bowl. Apply.

Rinse very thoroughly, as this recipe can be slightly sticky.






Body Scrub and Face

Pumpkin, Sugar, and Spice Scrub

1/2 cup cooked or canned pumpkin, pureed

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon



Blend in a bowl. Apply mixture to face (and body, if you really want to indulge yourself).



The Green Beauty Guide offers this organic recipe:



“Eat Your Greens” Facial Scrub

2 tsp organic wheat bran

2 tbsp organic oatmeal

2 tbsp olive oil soap, finely shredded

1 tsp dried parsley

1 part dried lettuce



Shave your favorite plant oil-based soap.

Grind parsley and lettuce with pestle in mortar. (We have tried this – you can also blend it in a processor).

Add soap shavings and mix thoroughly.

Whisk in the oatmeal and wheat brand and continue stirring until thoroughly mixed

REAL PEOPLE REAL ANSWERS EDITION 8



A DAY IN THE LIFE

“Living Naturally You”

Real People Real Answers




What’s your name?
 Aminah "Salakida" Kali Barry



 How old are you?
 Me? Age is so passe :-)


 Where are you from?
 Oakland, CA

 What is your occupation?
Singer, Songwriter, Goddess


How would you describe yourself?
 Hippie Glam Girl

 When did you first decide to become natural?
 2000

If there was one word to describe your style what would it be?
Ethereal

 Who are some people that inspire you the most?
 Prince. Chaka. Jimi. Grace Slick. Joni. Beyonce. Coko. Meelah from 702. Gangstarr. PE. Elaine Brown.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
 An inspiration to little girls all over the world with big noses/lips, and nappy hair...oh, and RICH   :-)! Filthy.


10. What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or live a more natural based lifestyle?
I just want ALL my Sistas to know, wearing your hair natural is not a commitment to being a judgemental social outcast with limited financial/romantic prospects anymore than wearing your hair straight makes you a vapid video whore begging for validation from white people. You are you! I AM passionate about women at very least exploring their natural hair because a lot of us had the choice (relaxed hair as the standard of beauty) made for us before we even knew there was a choice to be made or a standard to meet. It's kind of like having a big booty;we have something uniquely beautiful in our various curl patterns, and ,since you got it, why not flaunt it?

11. What’s your favorite quote?
 Today? "The supense is terrible...I hope it lasts..."


- Gene Wilder as Willie Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory






Saturday, June 25, 2011

SPECIAL FEATURE!!!! ANIBA HOTEP & THE SOL COLLECTIVE!!!! I LOVE THIS GROUP!!!

SOULFULLY RISING
“Living Naturally You”
Artist Appreciation
New Natural Stars on the Rise



         What is the name of your band and whom is it’s members ? 

 1. ANIBA HOTEP & THE SOL COLLECTIVE
A. ANIBA HOTEP (OBVIOUSLY LOL, LEAD VOCALS)
B. NERI MA’AT (BACKGROUND VOCALS)
C. CARESS SAHURA (BACKGROUND VOCALS)
D. WILLAM BAGGET (BASS)
E. LOUIS WELLS (KEYS)
F. HARRY HUNT (KEYS)
G. ANTHONY REID (DRUMS)
H. AUM MU RA EL (GUITAR)
I. WALLACE WILBORN (SAX)


          When was this band founded and in what city?

 THE BAND WAS FOUNDED IN THE BEGINNING OF 2008 IN CHICAGO, IL.

     Why as a band have you decided to promote the natural lifestyle?


WELL, I HAVE HAD NATURAL HAIR FOR ELEVEN YEARS, AND I BELIEVE NERI HAS AS WELL. CARESS SAHURA IS A TRAINED NATURAL HAIR STYLIST AND HAS BEEN NATURAL FOR FIVE YEARS. WHEN WE FORMED THE BAND, THE INCLUSION OF OUR HAIR WAS KIND OF A NO BRAINER. THERE WAS NEVER A CONVERSATION WHERE WE DISCUSSED WEARING STRAIGHTER LOOKING STYLES FOR THE “GLAM” LOOK, WE KNEW THAT NATURAL HAIR WOULD DO THAT AND REPRESENT WHO WE WERE AS BLACK WOMEN AND ARTISTS.

       How would you describe your bands style?

WE ARE A SOUL BAND, A GUESS SOME WOULD DESCRIBE IT AS A THROWBACK TO THE LATE 60’S OR 70’S BUT I THINK OUR SOUND IS JUST SOUL MUSIC THROUGH IT’S NATURAL PROGRESSION THROUGH THE GENERATIONS AND THE OTHER GENRES THAT HAVE TOUCHED US
  
       What are some people that inspire you most?

WATCHING CLASSIC FOOTAGE OF AL GREEN, JAMES BROWN, ARETHA FRANKLIN… THOSE IMAGES MOVE ME, IT’S A RAWNESS ABOUT THEIR BODY LANGUAGE AND DELIVERY THAT SETS A VERY DEFINITIVE STANDARD.
   
 What the general mission of your group’s music?

OUR MISSION IS TO MAKE HONEST, CLASSIC MUSIC AND TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL AND THINK AGAIN . TO RESTORE THE IMAGES OF NUBIAN PEOPLE WITH FULL BANDS , TO REKINDLE THE LIGHT THAT CAN ONLY BE TURNED ON BY LIVE INSTRUMENTS AND UNAPOLOGETIC SOUL VOCALS .

     What are some of the accomplishments of your band and describe in detail some of your most recent performances? 

ANIBA HOTEP AND THE SOL COLLECTIVE HAS PERFORMED AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES, THE MAYNE STAGE THEATER, THE AFRICAN FESTIVAL, HAS SHARED THE STAGE WITH CHAKA KHAN, MINT CONDITION, CARL THOMAS, AND THE LEGENDARY DRIFTERS. OUR DEBUT EP “THE SOL-UTION” , DEBUTED ON CD BABY SEPTEMBER OF 2010 AND MADE THE TOP ALBUMS LIST FOR SOUL AND NEO SOUL, AND HAD FIVE SINGLES FROM THIS EP MAKE THE TOP TEN IN BOTH OF THOSE CATEGORIES. WE HAVE THE HONOR OF SHARING THE STAGE WITH THE LEGENDARY R&B GROUP SILK JULY 16TH AT THE LITTLE BLACK PEARL IN CHICAGO, IL. 

        Where can we find the bands music? 

YOU CAN FIND ANIBA HOTEP & THE SOL COLLECTIVE ‘S MUSIC ON CD BABY, AMAZON, AND I-TUNES.
                         
    What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or live a more natural based lifestyle?

TO PEOPLE WHO WANT TO EMBRACE NATURAL HAIR AND/OR A NATURAL WAY OF LIVING, I WOULD SUGGEST THAT THEY TAKE THEIR TIME, DO RESEARCH AND ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE AREAS THAT YOU ARE INTERESTED IN. YOU MAY RECEIVE TONS OF SUGGESTIONS ABOUT WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR HAIR , BUT YOU MAY FIND THAT YOUR TEXTURE IS NOTHING LIKE THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU, OR THAT CERTAIN OILS MAY IRRITATE YOUR SCALP. IT’S THE SAME FOR YOUR  DIET, YOUR CLOTHING, YOUR PERSONAL CONSTITUTION. IT HAS TO WORK WITH YOU IN ORDER TO WORK ; )
             

     What’s your favorite quote?

I HAVE TWO FAVORITE QUOTES, ONE IS “ONLY FOOLS DUCK WHEN THE TRUTH IS THROWN AT THEM”, AND “COME OUT AND SEE ANIBA HOTEP AND THE SOL COLLECTIVE AT THE LITTLE BLACK PEARL ON JULY 16TH “ LOL!

PLEASE CHECK THEM OUT. I REALLY LOVE THIS GROUP CLICK ON LINKS FOR THEIR MUSIC!!!

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/anibahotep
http://www.amazon.com/The-Solution-EP/dp/B00435D1RW

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

I love her simple yet elegant styles :) GO CHESCA GIRL:)


REAL PEOPLE REAL ANSWERS : MENS EDITON 1


A DAY IN THE LIFE
“Living Naturally You”
Real People Real Answers




 What’s your name? 
Thierry Kojo Baptiste - Kojo is a AFRICAN male name that is Ghanaian, which means Born on Monday and Nigerian meaning of UNCONQUERABLE    

Both Definitions Apply.......

  How old are you? 

Ageless

  Where are you from?
Indianapolis, Indiana but I travel from coast to coast as an educator of Custom Colour and Trend Cutz Styling for Locs

  What is your occupation?
I am a licensed cosmetologist who specializes in the cultivation of Locs. Traditionally called an Loctician, but known to be called a LocStylist due to expansion of services I offer to the natural hair community. 

  How would you describe yourself?
Definitely a New Era of Locs pioneer who travels to the beat of my own drum that evolves in unison with the world effortlessly.  

  When did you first decide to grow locs?

When I got tired of combing my hair after having every other Afrocentric style in the world. It was a natural evolution.

This is my second or maybe third set, I'm not sure because I really don't keep up with the details past hairstyles. None thus far tops this one, and the next one will reign over the one I have today.


If there was one word to describe your style what would it be?
AfroChic. I am definitely Afrocentric. I love everything about being black and although I have a dark skin tone, I would love to be darker. I don't understand why my people are bleaching their skin. BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL

Within that mindset, I have a sense of personal style that is a combinations of a Parisian flare, Revolutionist,  and Harlem Renaissance influences.

  Who are some people that inspire you the most? 
Those who think outside of the box when it comes to manifesting their artistic gifts and those who openly apologetically proclaim themselves (even if I don't agree with what they say).

Living Without Fear of self expression is very liberating.  That freedom creates a  confidence that stimulates my soul and motivates me to discover more about myself and the universe. 

  What do you want to be when you grow up?
Stress Free & Unconditionally Loved

  What advice would you give to others who wanted embrace their individuality ?
Turn the television off that subconsciously programs our people you to SELF HATE and go inside your soul to discover your definition of self.
Embrace that concept as long as you like.

When life experiences generates a new outlook, do not hesitate to change who you currently are because others like the person you were yesterday.

  What’s your favorite quote?
STAY FOCUSED (on you) and all of your dreams will come true.

How to make your very own NATURAL nail polish :)

Just some more fun easy natural recipes for all to enjoy;)


Ingredients
*1tablespoon of olive oil
*powdered white clay ( can be purchase on online stores)
* 1/2 tablespoon Henna dye ( can be found on online Indian stores and specialty art stores..Think fake henna tattoos)
*Cotton Swab



  • Take 1 tbsp of cold pressed olive oil and mix it with ½ tbsp of powdered kaolin clay or white clay, to form a smooth paste. Olive oil will keep your nails and cuticles moisturized while the clay will lend sheen to your nails.
  • Use henna dye to add color to your nail polish. Henna is available in a variety of colors and can be used to add natural tint to your nail polish. Mix the henna with olive oil, to form a smooth paste.
  • Use an old nail polish brush or cotton swab to apply the nail polish evenly on your nails. Leave it on for about 15 minutes. If you are using henna to tint your nails, keep in mind to wipe away any extra leftover on skin. Allow your nails to air-dry.
  • While using henna to color your nails, remember to moisturize it from time to time. You can use a cotton swab dipped in warm water to dab the surface. Keep the polish on for at least an hour or more, depending on the richness of tint.
  • After the paste has dried off, use a damp cloth to wipe it off from your nails. Rub your nails gently while doing this, to buff up the nails. Repeat the application as often as you want, to have naturally painted glossy nails.:)

Monday, June 20, 2011

LOCKING SERIES PART 2: Upcaled Tightened Coiles:)

Locking is one of my upmost favorite topics to talk about. In this article I will expand upon two advanced level techniques of starting and tightening locks. The two advanced techniques we will go over in this article is interlocing and starting locs from a basic add on way/interlocing combination.



Interlocing : Basic clock method(4 pattern) for tightly coiled hair 


12    9    6    3

When you begin the interlocing process its a very intricate and timely process but may be well worth the wait for many. To begin this process ( note this process CAN be started on permed or straight hair as well:) First part your hair in your desired method. You will make the parts in the size of the resulting loc that you want. Use some hair clamps to keep the hair in place and prevent it from mixing into the rest of your parts,Gather the bunch of hair that you parted and back comb it while holding the very bottom of the hair to make it a little tangled. Envision the hands of a clock place your finger in the "12 o clock" position  and almost like a knife cut through the hair and stop before the matted piece. Proceed to take your finger in the "9 o clock" position a inside this hole you made and bring the finger through to you get to the matted hair. Do this process for "6 o clock" and "3 o clock". Repeat this rotation until you have almost reached the scalp of the clients head. Once you get to a point where your fingers no longer fit you will use either a latch hook ( you can get this at a craft store or local beauty supply store), a loc loop tool  (can buy on line), a sisterloc tool ( tool you get from certified sisterlocing specialist) or wait until my future article on making your on :). Take your hook of choice and place it in this last amount of hair in a way that you would close off the gap you left with your fingers . Place the tip of the hair in the grasping portion of the tool and pull the hair through in the clock like motion until the hair is comfortably tight to the clients head. Depending on how many locs the clients wants, the length of the hair started , and the size of the client's head itself.... this process can take anywhere from 12 and I heard stories ranging into the 37 hour time frame.

Note: This Method is usually used for small locs to sisterlocksTM . 
The main differnece between small locs and sisterlocks is the certification for sisterlocs
and the actual number of locs with sisterlocks starting off at a minimum of 350 locs..WHEW



Note: In this video the woman starts from 9 oclock


Locing from Human Add on ( Basic method)



I highly recommend using a human hair afro bulk for this method as it looks the most natural ( EON hair online is a supplier I have used in the past and worked just fine).  Part hair in desired. Add in afro kinky hair as described in Basic Braiding Methods Part II . Do this to the entire head. It is my recommendation that you do these (kinky braids) on the smaller end so that they appear to be small locs. You may roller set or pipe cleaner set this hair for an added effect. Once the new growth appears simply use your favorite locking tool to tightening in the 4 pattern as described previously. You may clip the ends slowly as your own loced hair grows or opt to allow the human hair to mat with your own for " the instant locs overnight" look:)

Well as I say in all my You tube vids "THATS IT!!" :) I hope you liked my basic series on twisting braiding and locing:) If you did ...wait to you see my advanced natural hair articles coming to a Kyles Natural Hair Care blog near you:)

By M Kyles of Kyles Natural





Ole School Natural Gladys night DOING IT!!! with her natural hair and HER VOICE!!!!


So HAIR ENVIOUS LOL HAIR ENVY!!!


REAL PEOPLE REAL ANSWERS EDITON 7


A DAY IN THE LIFE
“Living Naturally You”
Real People Real Answers


What’s your name?  
Montique "Tiquee" Harris 

How old are you?
39 

Where are you from?
Orlando, Fl

What is your occupation?
Staffing Specialist(Public school system)


How would you describe yourself?
 A naturally free outgoing, charismatic, authentic, humorous woman of integrity.


When did you first decide to become natural? 
I decided to go natural in December 2009. I began my transition by wearing half wigs, and phony undo ponytails and buns. I transitioned for 81/2 months, got anxious and I administered the BC on August 13, 2010. 

If there was one word to describe your style what would it be? 
POSH.


Who are some people that inspire you the most?  
My inspirations come from JESUS CHRIST, my mother, and my husband. Looking back at the strength of these special creations gives me the strength and courage to move forward in every endeavor in life.

What do you want to be when you grow up? 
I want to be an inspiration to mankind in a positive way, especially African American women! I would love to work full time traveling across the world encouraging, inspiring, enlightening, and empowering African American women spiritually and physically while encouraging them to embrace their "Natural Hair/ Natural Being" while in their Natural State! This is a dream that I would love to make a reality!

What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or live a more natural based lifestyle? 
I would advise them to live naturally free to the utmost! One can always receive J-O-Y out of being FREE! Putting Jesus first, Others, and then YOU! That’s J-O-Y! We should always be apt to help others to become free naturally and spiritually. God creative each of us differently and we should embrace the fact that he made us to be one of a kind, free; naturally free! Embrace who you are and enjoy the skin you're in! Your natural hair is an enhancement piece to beautify your outer being and it makes a statement to the world! It doesn't matter if it's short, long, bald, big, "good", "bad", wavy or kinky, you and your hair are beautiful because you are God's creation. Enjoy it, wear it naturally, flaunt it like you know you can! Be naturally free like you know you can! Embrace life being the REAL YOU!~ Authenticity is being ~ Genuine! Live FREE NATURALLY! 

What’s your favorite quote?
" Hair doesn't make an individual~ YOU make the Hair"!



Thursday, June 16, 2011

SPECIAL FEATURE SOUFULLY RISING Ms Alicia James!!! Please listen to her she's awesome!!


SOULFULLY RISING
“Living Naturally You”
Artist Appreciation
New Natural Stars on the Rise 



1.What is the name of your band and whom is it’s members ?  
solo artist Alicia James

2.When was this band founded and in what city? n/a

3 Why as a artist have you decided to promote the natural lifestyle?
When I first started there were several people pulling me in different
directions. I started off with straight hair, but in the end,I decided
to just be me!


4.How would you describe your style? 

I would say my music is a mix of R&B/Soul with a little bit of soft rock and maybe some wouldsay a sprinkle of jazz
 
5.What are some people that inspire you most? 

My family inspires me most. As far as artist, I am inspired by the legends like Tina Turner, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, also artist like Eykah Badu, India Arie, Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, newer artist like Natasha Bedingfield, pop
artist Kelly Clarkson, Solange, and even love me some Beyonce! LOL!


6.What the general mission of your group’s music? 

I have been singing for as long as I can remember. Now that I am older, I love to writeand tell stories through my music. Honestly, I just want to make
people feel something. Even if it is happiness, love, sadness, I just
want you to feel what I am singing about. That's my mission to make
people feel something or inspire them in some way.


7.What are some of your accomplishments and describe in
detail some of your most recent performances?
*Sell out performances at the Houses of Blues, Red Cat Jazz
Cafe,Claytons, and other venues in Dallas, Houston , Austin
* Featured in popular independent concert series FRONTLINE 2 and 3
hosted by Go MC Kane & Afterworkinc.
* Featured on popular singles with up and coming artist J. Dawg (Dry
your eyes) Centop (Mortality Music) & Dante Higgins (I Just Wanna Be)
*"Crazy in Love and "Seven is currently being played on local stations
90.1 FM, 90.9 FM, & News Levels Radio.
*first project "Seven" was released 5/07/2011
*the Owner of Natural Chick Epidemic Youtube Vlog which currently has
6000+ subscribers and averages 2400+ views per day
One of my most recent performances with at Houston's Hip Hop Fest. I
performed along with two Hip Hop artist. Mac from Undergravity and
Dante Higgins. It was fun as always, I love to do Hip Hop shows! I
always have to sing a little harder though, and put in a few extra
growls to please the crowd! LOL!


8.Where can we find the bands music? 

You can listen to my full album
at http://www.msaliciajames.com



 
9.What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or
live a more natural based lifestyle?
I would just say do what makes you happy. Everyone is going to have
their own opinon, but how you feel about it, is the most important
thing in the end. ;)


10.What’s your favorite quote? 

Honestly the quote that had the most
impact on my life was "The cure to fear is Action"
My life hasn't been the same since I found that quote!:)




PLEASE SUPPORT ALICIA SHE'S AWESOME!!!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/naturalchickepidemic
Listen to full album at: http://www.msaliciajames.com
 

Black hair magazines : When will Natural hair take over?




It’s a Saturday morning; you’re in a local drugstore walking around the woman magazine shelves. Looking like an alive Cuckoo clock, your eyes rapidly move back and forth looking for a natural hair care magazine. Your eyes finally land on the small section where 2-3 Black hair magazines reside. Reaching for the magazine with the cover of a model sporting a multi-colored streak bob on the front, you soon realize that it was quite pointless trying to find any type of inspiration for any fly, fresh hairstyles for natural hair.

It is extremely clear that natural hair care is not incorporated in publications. In the majority of magazines, once you hit the hair section the most natural style you find is on a racially ambiguous model with loose curls and/or they will have medium wave textured hair. Not saying that any of our black publications do not cater to the need of natural hair but only having 2-5 pages a month leaves us yearning for more. The pleasure of being able to sign up for a monthly subscription and have funky and healthy styles for you waiting in your mailbox would be treasure that numerous women would enjoy.

Since natural women do not have too many print options to cater to their needs, technology plays a vital role in connecting information to the modern day natural woman. With an online community of YouTube videos, bloggers and Facebook groups, natural women have taken the power back into their own hands. Coming together on our own not only displays our outcry for more knowledge of how take care of natural tresses but also shows that it’s a major void in the market that needs to be addressed. When it comes to finding new styles or tips I don’t even attempt to comb through any magazine but straight to YouTube and blogs for my hair questions, videos, tutorials, tips and product reviews.

Even though natural women’s online presence is mighty powerful, the simple fact that a magazine is definitely a need for us. Having a weekly or monthly subscription that would have all the information online condensed in a publication would be the next step to propel the acceptance of Black beauty. Every other culture has their one go to place for beauty and hair care tips, now it’s time for our turn.
So how long will it be until the natural hair care takes over or are included in Black hair magazines?

Thank you CoCO and Cream for such a great article:)
- Ellisa Oyewo

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Easy way to make your own Natural lotion:) YAY!!

We all get dry skin at times. So instead of reaching for that bottle of unpronounceable things how bout making your very own simple version from this easy recipe below:)


SUPPLIES

  • Clean bottle or jar
  • 1 cup lotion base oil
  • 1 tbsp. emulsifying wax ( beeswax will do just fine)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Essential oil
  • Food coloring optional
  • Glass mixing bowl
  • Microwave or stove top and pot

Instructions

1)Pick a lotion oil base that reflects the type of feel you are going for.  Want soft skin? Coconut oil is a great choice. Almond oil not as thick and doesn't leave a strong smell.  Canola and vegetable oil are also great for making home made. You can even add essential oil scents to give an additional POW to your lotion. If you intend to scent your lotion with essential oils, choose a lotion oil base with little smell of its own.




  • 2)Pour one cup of the oil into a pot or microwave safe bowl. Add the tbsp. of emulsifying wax. Beeswax is a good all-natural wax to use. Melt these ingredients together and stir well. Stir in the water until the lotion reaches the consistency you like. Less water will create a homemade cream that is richer and thicker than the lotion.







  • 3)Add your choice of essential oils or other fragrances to the lotion base.  You can make essential oils by mixing flowers, herbs or other plant parts in clear oil for a length of time. Your choice of essential oils or other fragrances depends on your personal taste. You can also use aromatherapy oils such as lavender for relaxation or rose .







  • 4)Add color to your homemade lotion with natural vegetable and plant based food coloring or dyes. Add just a  little  color to the lotion at a time until you reach  the color you want. I like to match colors to the scent I added to the lotion.





  • 5) Finally put the homemade lotion into a clean glass or plastic bottle or jar of your choice. These are usually found at craft stores or your local beauty supply store.. Use a funnel to get the lotion inside without drips or spills. Store lotion it in a cool, dark place to ensure it stays fresher longer.

    Well that's it!! (As I usually say:) Your very own lotion as perfected by you:) ENJOY!!!






  • Monday, June 13, 2011

    REAL PEOPLE REAL ANSWERS EDITION 6

    1. What’s your name? Valaira Sa-Ra Smith 

    2. How old are you? Ageless 

    3. Where are you from? Born in Bronx, New York City but currently reside in Atlanta, Georgia

    4. What is your occupation? Actress/Model and Owner of VUE Entertainment which is a Fashion Show and Fashion Event Production Company.

    5. How would you describe yourself? I would describe myself as an eccentric woman who is always reinventing herself.
    6. When did you first decide to become natural? I decided to go natural in 2007. My then fiancé and soulmate sister encouraged me to go natural, so I took the plunge.

    7. If there was one word to describe your style what would it be? Vintage meets Sexy Modern.

    8. Who are some people that inspire you the most? Those who inspire me the most are people who defy the programs of society.  For Example Ernestine Shepherd proved you don’t have to be 75 years old unhealthy and helpless.  My Mother proved that you can stop taking diabetes pills just by changing your diet, eating right and exercising. My Husband proved that we are capable of curing ourselves! Also people who live by their own rules and are constantly creating their reality instead of chasing their dreams, inspire me!

    9. What do you want to be when you grow up? Actually I am what I want to be; however I am always working towards mental growth and being better at who I am.

    10. What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or live a more natural based lifestyle? Know that the transition is a mental one more than a physical one. Any type of change requires a change in the mind first and the rest will follow. I would also advise to research as much as possible so that you know what you are getting into and what is required. Stay motivated by following those who made the changed and are maintaining it!

    11. What’s your favorite quote? "Achieve Greatness with Limitless Consciousness" - Valaira Sa-Ra Smith. Meaning, when we let go of all mental limitations that has been taught to us since birth, we realize that our limitations are only in our minds.

    3 Tips on stopping an argument in its tracks :)

    Be it a family member, friend or co worker....arguments are never fun....especially with those of which you love most. Below are some tips I found useful in keeping the peace :)



    1) In the mist of the heat try your very best to imagine good moments with that person, or how they may have helped you in the past. In fact if you do this BEFORE the argument starts to flare up...you may avoid this collision in the first place. The goal is to dispel anger before it even occurs...this is the root of many arguments.

    2) Talking in a quiet, respectable manner. It is my experience that no one...AND I DO MEAN NO ONE ...wants to have a discussion with someone who is offending them or yelling at them.  It's a thin line between a discussion or a debate and actual arguing and many times its all in the way one presents the information at hand. Try thinking very hard before you speak. Sometimes throwing a smile in at the right time may make your discussion stay just that:). Also keep in mind that once something is spoken...it can't be taken back. Use this info to make each moment as special as it can be for your loved one in the future.

    3) Remove the finger pointing phase of "You" from every argument. It only fuels the flames and the person with whom you are talking has stop listening to you and is focusing on their own anger. Unfortunately this alone is very VERY hard for most people to do...but once mastered it can create a bridge of understanding between both parties involved. We are in charge of our own destiny as they say. If you don't like what someone else is doing ...take a few moments to examine how you are contributing to the environment in a negative way. As a matter of fact replacing you with "we" or focusing on how the two of you in general can create a more positive atmosphere versus the whole blame game can be a life saver in preventing arguments.

    I hope this article has helped with the battle of misunderstandings that we all go through at some point with our closest loved ones. If nothing else maybe it will help you think twice before starting up some "mess" that may be very hard to clean up later in your relationships:)

    By M Kyles of Kyles Natural

    HAIR ENVY!!!! Need I say more....NOPE lol!!:)


    Wednesday, June 8, 2011

    SPECIAL FEATURE!!!!NEW NATURAL ARTIST "Soulfully Rising"



    SOULFULLY RISING
    “Living Naturally You”
    Artist Appreciation
    New Natural Stars on the Rise



    1.          What is your band and whom is it’s members?
    Queen Cleopatra (Solo Artist)
    2.          When was this band founded and in what city?
    The first group I was in started in 2003 by name of Crew Grrl Order. I am still apart of today and pursuing my solo career in Charlotte N.C.

    3.          Why as a band have you decided to promote the natural lifestyle?
    I do not try to promote being natural, it’s just me..being me. I don’t feel you have to work hard at being something so simple if it’s truly your way of life.
    4.          How would you describe your style?
    My style is eclectic and tribal with a fun twist. 
    5.          What are some people that inspire you most?
    I’m inspired by women such as Diana Ross, Les Nubians and Zap Mama.
    6.          What the general mission of your group’s music?
    The mission is to enlighten and inspire the mind, body and spirit by invoking pure emotions through sounds.

    7.          What are some your accomplishments  and describe in detail some of your most recent performances?
    I have many accomplishments, but to narrow it down. I have performed with many hip-hop legions, including shooting a video with MC Lyte, which is profound considering that she is a hip hop icon. I have also been able to do what I love for a living from music to fashion and enjoy the journey that come along with it. The most rewarding aspect of it all is watching my children's talents manifest and being able to understand their desire to create.

    8.          Where can we find the bands music?
    You can find my music on all over the Internet, in place like iTunes, cdbaby, amazon, etc. You may also view my videos on www.youtube.com/user/CLeoJones76

    9.        What advice would you give to others who wanted to go natural or live a more natural based lifestyle?
    Be true to yourself. Don’t do it religiously, do what feels good to you.
                 10.        What’s your favorite quote?
    "Be the change you want to see in the world"

    Permed Vs Natural

    PERMED VS NATURAL by Co CO and Cream






    Read any C+C article about natural or relaxed hair and you’ll find a flood of comments from readers debating about which style is better. Remarks often veer on the argumentative side with naturals and relaxed pitted against one other.
    The comments can get ugly. Claims that natural hair is unattractive and that women with relaxed hair want to look white are hurtful and antagonistic. When did our hairstyle choices make us enemies?
    When the natural vs. relaxed tension materializes in our personal lives, the divide is felt even deeper. Hair is a bonding experience for many women who run style ideas by each other, share product recommendations and even coordinate salon visits. So what happens when you decide to go natural and your best friend is relaxed?
    Though my best friend didn’t initially understand why I went natural, we haven’t had one argument or even a negative comment about my transition. Instead of attacking each other because of our differences, we chose to reach a place of mutual respect and understanding.
    Here are three things I learned in the process that can help us all celebrate our individual hairstyle choices while still loving and embracing those who rock their hair differently:

    1. Know that it’s a personal choice.

    Women go natural or choose to relax their hair for various reasons which are ultimately personal. While one woman may find the natural hair journey liberating and self-affirming, another’s motivation might be purely aesthetic. There are women who relax their hair to fit the mainstream standard of beauty; others simply because it’s easier to manage. Sweeping generalizations, like the idea that all naturals embrace being black and women with relaxers don’t, are not only disrespectful, they’re inaccurate. It’s important to own your choices and experiences without projecting them on others.

    2. Educate yourself.

    Few things insult naturals more than ignorant comments regarding the look, texture and style of their hair. Comments that equate all natural hairstyles to a “nappy ‘fro” are insulting and untrue; not every natural wears their hair in the same style and some even regularly straighten their hair. Likewise, the myth that natural hair is unkempt and undone is highly offensive; it takes a lot of work, patience, time and money to achieve and maintain natural styles. Before making incendiary comments about natural haircare like Method Man for example, educate yourself about it.

    3. Realize it’s just hair.

    As black women, we are the target of too many attacks against us by the mainstream, Psychology Today studies included, to turn on each other over a hairstyle. At the end of the day, our similarities as women of color strongly outweigh the differences surrounding how we style our tresses.

    Have you ever experienced tension between women with natural and relaxed hair? How do you deal with it?

    -Jessica C. Andrews

    Basic Locing Fundamentals : Part 1 Bunching Up Beauty

    We have twisted. We have braided. Naturally the next step for many of us is just locing this stuff up!! ( At least that how it went for me lol). This article seeks to inform the average person on how the locking process works. There are so many ways to loc one's hair that I could literally write a book on this topic, but for the purpose of this article i will keep it simple . The most commonly used methods to loc natural hair is free form, palm roll, and starting locs from braids or twists.  Now this is only a taste of the many ways we loc. Advanced topics on all of my hair series ( braiding , locking , twisting, and protective styling) All coming soon:)

    Free Form



    Free form locs are exactly that ....free! All one needs to know for this method is how to keep the hair clean as mentioned in our previous hair article  "Tool kit for healthy hair success" . You simply let the hair mat on its on with out parting or combing and your free form locs will do just that....Form. Some people may opt to gently separate their hair with their fingers to give their forming locs more definition. Others may opt out of that option and simply allow their hair to form however it freely does.

    Palm Rolling

    Tools you will need for palm rolling are usually a rat tailed comb, alot of hair clamps( to keep hair separated) and your favorite locing gel ( preferably natural of course). Part the hair with your desired method ( most people use the box parting method). The size of the part part determines the size of the loc so please keep this in mind when forming your locs. Most people need at least an inch of hair to start this process. Saturate the portion of hair that you have parted with your natural locing gel. Proceed the take the rat tailed comb and use the teeth of the comb to twirl the hair in a circular motion to create a "cylinder cone" in the client's head. Repeat this process throughout the entire head and you are done. If hair is longer than an inch when re tightening you can literally take the hair (after u applied the gel to the entire loc) in your palm and roll both palms in a twisting motion. Another option may be to tighten the hair by only apply the gel to the root of the loc and literally twisting the roots with your fingers.



     
    Creating Locks From Twists or Braids

    To create locks from twists or braid simply part in desired method and braid or twist hair as explained in my previous articles  Basic Braiding Methods and  Twisting Methods Part 2 .
    Wash and maintain hair as you normally would but in a more careful manner being sure not to unravel the twists or braids. You can proceed after getting some new growth to palm roll or twists the roots as explained previously. Many people opt for this method of starting locks because it is a bit more secure than the palm rolling or comb coil method alone. 

    NOTE: With ALL Methods mentioned above hair takes about 6 months on average to look loced.

    Stayed tuned for our PART 2 of our locing series adding on the add on and special locing methods. Hope you have enjoyed:) I know I did:)
    By M Kyles of Kyles Natural