I've been aware of the many benefits of activated charcoal for years. But I experiment with lots of products so I put charcoal on the backburner. Today, I happened to stumble of Biore's Deep Pore Charcoal cleanser. I wanted to try it so bad.
But instead pulling out my credit card, I came up with a better solution. That moment I realized that I could use charcoal in multiple ways in my everyday beauty routine.
I could integrate activated charcoal into my routine with the greatest of ease. All I had to do is sprinkle a tiny pinch of charcoal to my cleanser which would instantly increase its deep cleansing potential. As you know, charcoal unmatched when it comes to its ability to trap and remove toxins.
When I brush my teeth, I add another pinch to use as an all natural whitener. I've heard the claims of charcoal's teeth whitening power for years but I've never used it consistently enough to find out. Even if it doesn't whiten as well as commercial products, I'm more interested in the detoxing properties of charcoal. Perhaps adding a tiny bit of charcoal cleans your mouth just a tad bit better than with toothpaste alone. I'm all for it.
A couple times a week I like to mask. Right now I'm really into mud masks, but who says that I can't add a little charcoal to the mix for a deeper detox? It would only take a few extra seconds. Since charcoal is, like, the greatest detoxifier of all time, I want it working hard on my pores.
Lastly, before jumping in the shower, maybe I do a charcoal underarm mask one or more times a week. If you recall, adding a little charcoal paste to your underarms might not only detox your pits but also lighten them. Again, I'm not sure how effective this is because I've only tried it one or twice myself. But if I were to layer in activated charcoal to the activities that I do every, who knows what benefits could be had.
I'm sure 100% of us would all agree that if we could prevent or avoid sagging skin, we would. Firm, taut skin is the epitome of youth. Modern cosmetic science has a myriad of ways to address sagging skin from surgery to fillers and everything in between.
But Japanese researchers seemed to have uncovered an all-natural alternative that may hold the key to firming skin. Asians are obsessed with longevity and preserving youth for as long as possible. Koreans have basically mastered cosmetic surgery procedures that actually makes the client look younger. The Japanese have an unusually high aging population. They have a greater number of elderly than any other country in the world. Their unusually high life expectancy is one reason for this shift in demographics. And, since many of the elderly have disposable income, the demand for anti-aging products and technology is through the roof.
Recently, Shiseido teamed up with a Japanese research institute to find a secret weapon against aging skin. After searching for the root cause, they learned that they underlying key to healthy, young skin is proper lymphatic function. Your lymphatic network is an organized system that carries lymph fluid (water, cells, proteins), waste and nutrients between your tissues and bloodstream.
As we age, our lymphatic vessels become frail. When that happens, "nutrients aren't able to spread to every corner of the skin." Cells need nutrients in order to flourish. Without proper nutrition, everything starts to decline. The Japanese research team challenged the traditional notion that a decline in collagen is the sole reason for skin aging. Their theory is that skin will sag when lymphatic function is impaired which leads to stored fat beneath the surface of the skin.
One solution came from an unlikely source. They discovered that extracts from pine cones mimic a naturally occurring peptide that enhances the function of lymphatic vessels. A two-month trial was conducted using pine cone extract and they saw an improvement in neck sagging along with minimized wrinkles around the face and mouth.
After a quick search, I learned that pine cone extract is really a thing. But since the article I read didn't go into the detail into exactly how the extract was used, I started thinking of alternatives.
The study probably involved elderly participants. But while we're still young, we can implement habits that promote a healthy lymphatic system for as long as we live. I've already compiled a mental list of things to do to promote a healthy lymph.
The first option that came to mind was skin brushing. Basically, you stimulate circulation using one of these nifty body brushes. You brush in a certain direction so it activates your lymph. Some say that you're moving toxins away from the tissues to where it can be properly disposed. Not to mention that skin brushing helps improve cellulite on the back of the thighs while exfoliating the skin.
I also love lymphatic facial massage to target the muscles of the face. I'll always recommend Tanaka Massage at every chance I get. The majority of our lymph muscles are located on the sides of our neck. With this massage, we move all of the toxins and fluid away from our face and towards our lymph. You can probably notice a difference within the first couple of times you try it.
Lastly, the most powerful exercise you can do to activate your lymphatic system is bouncing on a mini-trampoline. Our lymph is stimulated by the repetitive up and down motion. Best of all, you're stimulating your ENTIRE lymph at once. Other exercises that involve up/down movement (like jump roping) works but rebounding feels so much better on the body. When I rebound regularly, I notice a huge difference in the tone of my body. Especially in the back of my legs. It's weird but I also notice a slight toning in my face as well.
I have to come clean and admit that I fell off my rebounding ritual. But after reading how valuable the lymphatic system is to the role of anti-aging, I'm once again recommitted. I remember that it didn't' take long to notice a difference. A 15-minute bounce session daily was enough to create positive benefits. Since lymph vessels are located all over our entire body, keeping our lymph healthy could mean that we can maintain toned skin all over. I'm all for that.
Hopefully, y'all rock with me as I start mixing things up over here at The Mane Objective.
For those of you that may be wondering why - listen. I've been running this blog since 2012, and virtually every topic you can think of regarding natural hair, I've covered to some extent. Hang with me as I spread my wings a lil' bit and start integrating more of who I am and what I love outside of hair into this here thing.
As you probably know, I'm really into creating a healthy lifestyle for myself. Healthy isn't just about eating right or working out - it's about balance, spiritual wellness, and mental health, too.
And while I'm always down for a sweet glass of wine or pomegranate margarita with extra limes (because that's how I roll), I like to make sure those are weekend treats here and there - so as to not derail me from my goals (and dry out my skin). But that doesn't mean I don't mix it up!
And if you're hosting get-togethers this spring and summer (hi Easter/Resurrection Day, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Grad Parties, Father's Day, and 4th of July), you gotta go hard or go home in the beverage department. Why not use these opportunities to introduce your peeps to some healthy, refreshing, pretty to look at (aka highly Instagrammable), and great tasting non-alcoholic cocktails?
I mean of course, you can add a splash of liquor to these recipes if you like, but trust me on this one - if you keep 'em virgin, you won't even miss the alcohol.
The three cocktail recipes I'm going to share were inspired by the new Eden BodyWorks Citrus Fusion Collection. Yep - the line that smells of bright, refreshing goodness and is packed with amazing ingredients like lime, orange, coconut, acai, sea kelp, and quinoa.
The products smell just like you'd imagine this picture to smell - bright and beautiful!
The moment I sniffed each product, I knew exactly what I wanted to create - and I couldn't wait to share.
In this video, you'll see me craft each drink by hand. The full recipe and step-by-step direction for each mocktail follows. I have to thank Antoinette of Sup x Dine and The Flatlay Photog for collaborating with me on videography, photography, and creative direction. There's no way I could have done all this on my own!
So without much more delay (because I hate super chatty recipe intros and backstory lol), let's get to cocktailing!
Charcoal Lavender Lemonade
Easily my favorite drink of the list. It's tart, slightly sweet, with the perfect hint of lavender. This recipe is inspired by my favorite drink from Pressed Juicery and has the same benefits, with a much cheaper price tag.
Thanks to this recipe, I'm no longer pressed to go to well, Pressed.
Benefits
Activated Charcoal adsorbs toxins and chemicals, helping to detoxify and removes impurities from the body while alleviating bloating, joint pain, and inflammation.
Lavender balances blood sugar, restores skin complexion, is packed with powerful antioxidants to reduce aging, and helps improve eczema and psoriasis.
Lemon stimulates the digestive system to help flush toxins, and 1 lemon gives you your daily recommended dose of Vitamin C.
Fill your pitcher with 2 cups of cold water. Squeeze or juice the 3 large lemons, and add to pitcher containing water. Set aside.
Step 2
Make your lavender-infused simple syrup by combining 1 cup water and 1/4 cup sugar and bringing it to a boil. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, add 5-7 sprigs of fresh lavender and allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, or to your desired strength.
Strain the lavender-infused simple syrup into a separate container. It will look light green, which is normal. Should yield approximately 1 cup of lavender-infused simple syrup.
Serve over ice with a slice of lemon and fresh sprig of lavender, because #youfancy
Notes
The longer you leave the lavender in the simple syrup, the stronger it gets. I don't recommend exceeding 4 minutes, because then you're headed into soap and perfume territory.
For added sweetness, gradually add more sugar or honey.
The drink tastes best when served day-of. I don't recommend storing it for more than 3 days in the refrigerator.
A refreshing twist on regular, degular coconut water!
Coconut Lime Cooler
This light, breezy refresher comes with a bright boost of lime, and a hint of pineapple to balance the salinity of coconut water. Muddled mint rounds out the refreshing factor on this drink, and brings the sweet-salty-sour flavor together beautifully. The Coconut Lime Cooler is perfect for a hot, sunny day and can even be used as a post-workout drink to restore electrolytes.
Benefits
Coconut water is rich in electrolytes and b-complex vitamins, which restores hydration to the body and boosts high your energy and metabolism. Coconut water is also rich in fiber, helps lower cholesterol, and has amazing anti-aging properties for skin.
Lime gives your body an immune boosting blast, thanks to rich Vitamin C content. Limes are also rich in alkalizing compounds that help alleviate inflammation in the body.
Pineapple is rich in Vitamins C and B6, along with manganese to boost the immune, free-radical fighting, and self-regulating functions in the body.
Mint helps stimulate digestive enzymes that convert fat to energy, helping your body more effectively use and burn off what you consume
You'll Need
15oz Coconut Water (fresh, boxed, or canned)
2-3 limes (+ zest of 1 lime)
4oz 100% pineapple juice
2 sprigs fresh mint
ice
Serves: 4
Directions
Step 1
Pour coconut water into serving bottle or pitcher.
Step 2
Zest 1 whole lime, set zest aside. Squeeze or juice 2-3 limes (I used 2.5), and add to pitcher or serving bottle of coconut water.
Step 3
Pour pineapple juice into the serving bottle or pitcher. Shake or stir to thoroughly blend ingredients.
Step 4
Cut mint leaves from stems and place in the bottom of glasses. Muddle the mint using a muddler, or the bottom of any blunt kitchen object. I just used the end of a wooden spatula.
Step 5
Serve over ice with lime zest and wedges as garnish, as mint floats around the glass and looks pretty. Because #youfancy and #presentationmatters
Notes
If you're not a fan of coconut water, you won't care for this drink. But if you love coconut water, you'll love this!
You can kick this drink up a notch by mixing in flavored sparking water (to keep it healthy), or turn it into a sugar-laden punch with 7-Up or Ginger Ale. It's delicious either way!
I had so much fun making this drink! And don't sleep on Tajin...
Grapefruit Jalapeno Faux-A-Rita
This was by far my favorite to make and look at. Again, shoutout to Antoinette for giving me the idea to add grapefruit peels to the simple syrup mix. #nextlevelish If you love combination sweet, salty, sour, spicy like I do, then this drink is right up your alley. Of all the cocktails, this one is the easiest to booze up with your favorite tequila.
Slice and peel skin from 1/2 grapefruit, set aside. Slice 4-6 rings of jalapeno.
Step 2
You'll want to start off this recipe by getting your jalapeno and grapefruit-infused simple syrup going first. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar and it to a boil. Let the sugar dissolve completely and boil down for approximately 10 minutes until it's nice and thick. At this point, add 4-6 slices of jalapeno and grapefruit peel to the simple syrup, and allow it to infuse over the flame for 2 minutes. For more heat and intense flavor, boil together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Strain the simple syrup and set the jalapenos and grapefruit peels aside.
Step 3
Add ice to blender. Squeeze or juice 1/2 grapefruit and 2 limes and pour over ice. Add pineapple juice to blender.
Step 4
Pour jalapeno and grapefruit infused simple syrup into the blender. Cover blender and mix thoroughly.
Step 5
Slice remaining lime half into wedges. Pour out Tajin on a flat, dry surface. Use lime wedges to create an adhering surface around rim around the serving glass. Press and rotate glass around the Tajin to create the rim.
Step 6
Pour blended drink into glass, and garnish with candied jalapenos. #conversationstarter
Notes
This drink is mellow and on the sweet side, thanks to the added sugar in the simple syrup and the pineapple juice. To dial back on the sweetness, reduce the sugar in the simple syrup, or add more grapefruit and lime.
For an extra kick of citrus, garnish with lime zest. The fragrance alone will make the drink feel more tart.
For stronger jalapeno flavor, blend into the drink directly.
If you love that bite that tequila gives a margarita (like me), stir some Tajin into each glass before serving. Trust me on this one.
Well ladies (and maybe gents) - I hope you enjoy these citrus infused recipes inspired by the new Eden Bodyworks Citrus Fusion Collection. Let me know if you're going to craft any of them at home!
Speaking of which, stay tuned because there's a part 2 coming! I've been itching to reveal the
details for the style I created with the Citrus Fusion Collection - again, inspired by fusions! Per the FTC, I have to let y'all know that this post and video is sponsored by Eden BodyWorks. Also, there's some affiliate links for Amazon and/or Target in this thing - so I can collect a few coins if you so happen to click my link and order. Y'all don't mind, right? Even though this content is sponsored that doesn't mean anything - I'm still keeping it 100 and giving you guys the real.
Nike | Air Max 90 | Black / Volt / Total Crimson / Pink Blast
I'm a sneakerhead.
But you knew that already, right?
If you've been following me for a while on Instagram or Snapchat (maneobjective), then you know the love runs deep, and that I'm in Foot Locker and Finish Line almost as often as I'm in Sally's and Target.
Well, if ya don't know - now ya know.
It's totally non-PC to say this now (because #outdatedgendernorms), but I grew up a lil' rough around the edges - a "tomboy" is what we called it back in my day (gosh I sound old, lol). I hated skirts, dresses, flowers, and pink - pretty much anything associated with super femininity. Although I later grew to appreciate a good mani/pedi, mascara, and a decent skirt, there were some things I never quite "grew out" of.
And sneakers was one of them.
My penchant for comfy kicks dates back to my middle school years, when I first became hyper-aware of what is now known as the #shoegame. I was hip to all the newest releases, but couldn't get them myself. My parents weren't balling outta control enough to buy me $100 sneakers every other month, so I took what I could get in the way of Reeboks, Converse, and back then - Nautica 😂
High school is where I was introduced to my first pair of Jordans - by way of a total stranger while school shoe shopping with my mom. I remember the story like it was yesterday. I was on my way to 10th grade when the all-white Jordan V sneakers first dropped in 2000. At that time, my parents couldn't afford to drop $100+ for a pair of shoes on me, so I typically saved my money to match what my parents could give me, to get what I wanted.
I now own the Vs as an adult, thanks to Samuel.
But this particular year, I didn't have enough money for 'em - so I passed them by and started looking at a pair of Chucks that were more in my price range. Unbeknownst to me, an older gentleman approached my mom and started asking about me - what kind of kid I was, what my grades looked like, etc. She told him I was an A student, and a hard worker that seldom got in trouble. The next thing I knew, the gentleman was at the counter telling the Footlocker employee to bring me the Jordan V in my size, and for me to pick out another pair. My mother and I both told the man it wasn't necessary - one pair, let alone two. But he insisted; and didn't want anything in return. He just wanted to be a blessing and reward someone who he felt deserved it. I'll never forget that story, or the lesson it taught me about giving and being a blessing to others without expecting. From that moment on, I worked weekend and summer jobs, stacking my money to go toward the shoes I wanted, with some financial help from my parents who were able to meet me halfway. My favorite pairs in high school were the Blackout Nike Hyperflights and Ginger Jordan XVIs. Back then, I didn't know jack about preserving shoes - I sure do miss those sneakers. They were so dope. Fast forward to my adult years, and I'm pretty much committed to sneakers as a way of life. I wear them to the gym, to church, on dates, at work (back when I worked in an office) - you name it, I've probably done it.
I'm a firm believer in comfort over corns, and high tops over heels. I don't go full hypebeast and cop whatever the latest sneaker is for the sake of owning it. Every single pair I own, I love. I have a soft spot for high tops, but for the right mid or low, I'm in. I've got a decent stash of retro Jordans, a growing Air Max collection, and a random assortment of Adidas, Converse, Reebok, Nike, and Vans. I love grey in all shades (it's my most populous wardrobe color), crazy bright colorways, and unique textures - even though there's always a need for a demure shade or two. I don't concern myself with what other folks consider hot or not - I rock what I like - no matter if it's a pair of Nikes from the clearance rack, or the latest Jordan release.
Jordan | Retro IV | Oreo
I say all of this to say - welcome to the newest category on The Mane Objective - Sneakers and Life. Here is where you'll be able to find all my sneakerhead musings, tips, reviews, and more. If you've got questions, or things you'd like to know about sneakers - drop 'em in the comments below. I'm always up for new blog posts about the collection that comes second only to my product stash! 😂 Enjoy!
I love combing through various studies to uncover what methods really work based on clinical trials. Today, I'm pretty sure I've stumbled on the mecca of all research papers on how to address acne scars once and for all. What I love about this article is that it covers pretty much every professional acne scar treatment on the market. Let's face it, there are lots of options out there. I've tried quite a few but all treatments are not created equal. We have to carefully assess each option to find the best one for us.
This article discusses over 10 different options and provides various details such as the number of treatments needed, downtime, side effects, etc. My favorite treatment of all time, micro needling, is listed as a viable option. They define micro needling as a resurfacing procedure and I totally agree. I needed something that did more than just fade hyperpigmentation. I wanted my skin to look like new again.
If you're serious about trying out new options to finally get rid of your stubborn scars and have the skin of your dreams, check out this article.
Back when I used to do a lot of development coaching, one strategy that I'd frequently employ is the art of listening. I don't mean your typical listening that normally goes on in regular conversation. I listened for the types of words used, I listened for the person's mindset, and I listened for hidden beliefs that resided in the person's subconscious.
One thing I notice that people do is sabotage their own efforts. In the same conversation, they'll speak life on their goals and simultaneously destroy it. The worst part is that most people have no idea they're doing it. I think we all do it to some extent. But to us is sounds like we're reasoning or like we're going over the pros and cons. Going over pros and cons is a good thing, but there's a fine line between being logical and completely destroying any chance of you moving forward.
In my opinion, going over the pros and cons serves one main purpose. In my opinion, the only reason to go over the cons is to figure out a way to overcome the obstacles. The cons are not there to stop you. They exist to make you think through your process completely. You're not supposed to let them stop you from moving forward.
When I hear someone slowing themselves down in their conversation, I call them out on it. I like the person straight in the eye and tell them "do you realize what you're doing? You're like someone who's sitting in a car with the foot on the gas and the brake at the same time." You're sitting in a parked car that's not going anywhere. You're talking yourself into standing completely still.
If there's a burning desire inside you urging you to take on a new adventure, listen to everything your gut says. But don't let those objections stop you. Listen to them then address each 1 by 1. Sometimes I'll actually write down all of my objections then brainstorm ways to overcome them. It's a way of putting my mind at ease. If I leave them floating around in my mind, things get bad. They'll slowly evolve from being objections to concerns & worries. Worries are poison to the lifeblood of your dreams.
It's natural for us to conflicting thoughts whenever we venturre into something new. Our job is to challenge our own thoughts. Point out the falsehoods in your fear based thinking. Notice how you are intentionally holding yourself back because of concerns that may or may not happen. It's time to take your foot of the brake so you can allow your intentions to finally take form.
Contents Types of protein treatments How To Determine The Best Protein Treatment For You 5 Ways To Keep Your Hair Stong 3 The Best Hard Protein Treatments On The Market We have talked about hair strength quite a bit on the blog, so much so that you might wonder why we would tackle the topic […]
Contents Types of protein treatments How To Determine The Best Protein Treatment For You 5 Ways To Keep Your Hair Stong 3 The Best Hard Protein Treatments On The Market We have talked about hair strength quite a bit on the blog, so much so that you might wonder why we would tackle the topic […]
