I Love Shoes!!!

Hi Fit n' Fabulous Divas!

I love to bargain shop. It enables me to shop more often while staying within my budget, Yes, I have a budget. I love fashion and the latest trends but I also have responsibilities that I do not deny for the sake of a new outfit. With that said, I have been shopping on a website that allows me to purchase shoes. I said Shoes not just one pair but at least three pairs all for under $100.00

Okay I'll share (smile).  My favorite website is Shoemint. There are several other sites which I will not mention whose shoes yet affordable are cheaply made. I have been so pleased with all of my purchases from Shoemint.

Here is how it works. You visit the website, a free membership is required. You complete a profile and then a closet is created for you. You will receive a 20% discount on your first purchase. Membership does not require you to make any monthly purchase, they simply supply you with monthly shoe suggestions based upon your recorded preferences. That's it !

I love this new concept of shopping. They also have a Stylemint and Jewelrymint website to cover all of your fashion needs. Start shoe shopping today!!

Fit n' Fabulous Diva Fashionista,

Qualita

Sparkle

Fit n Fabulous Divas!

I was taking a look at my vision board today and the word "Sparkle" jumped out at me. This year I want to shine as never before. I plan to ignite a fire in my life as well as others. I have realized that many times we have to see before our minds will grasp the possibility of something.

The fashion scene this season featured a lot of sparkle and glitter. Of course being a fashionista I purchased a lot of glittery items. I bought a pink pair of glitter shoes, handbags, leggins' and multiple tops. At first I thought I would only wear these clothes for special occasions. One day I  was feeling a little blah and I pulled out a shirt that was loaded with glitter. I put it on with a pair of jeans, and wow my attitude changed after I looked in the mirror. A change in  my perspective for my day. I out shined every setback and pitfall in my day. Wow!

If you have not dared to wear some of the sparkly glittery fashion attire now is the time to start. For my plus size divas take at look in Lane Bryants. They are featuring many dresses, skirts and accented jeans at reasonable costs. The Express store and H&M also  have some great finds, even Old Navy. Somewhere for all of our price ranges.

Be sure to "Sparkle"! Letting your light shine within and out brings positivity to any atmosphere. Making an Impact in 2013 is our goal!

Fit n Fabulous Diva,
Qualita

The Power of "Wow"

Happy New Year!

Here we are facing a new beginning. I have heard many people say they don't make New Years resolutions, and that is fine. But what are you doing to begin or get 2013 off to a bangin' start? Alicia Keys wrote a song titled,"This Girl is On Fire." I love it and have adopted this as my theme for the 2013. Watch out!

I recently had lunch with a group of women. It's good to meet and fellowship with women. Contrary to many of the current reality shows on television. Women can get along with each other. Our conversation began with us sharing our goals for 2013, we also discussed our mission statements. Each one of us shared how we would make an impact in 2013. It was a consensus among us that in order to make the Greatest impact we had to begin to look internally. Divas you have to ask yourself am I prepared to "Wow? "

This year, this new beginning take time to do an inner search. Find out your passion, set your goals, or write your vision. Look within and see what inner fears or demons are holding you back.

Take inventory of what is currently in your life. Remove the clutter ,the unnecessary tasks, friends who weigh down instead of lifting up. Find out if you need to get more education or training to accomplish the vision or dream. 

Step out of the box. Re-write your bio. Add a new skill that you do not already possess. Eleanor Roosevelt said "the purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." 

This year bring out the Power of Wow in your life. Become that philanthropist, author, business owner, political figure, teacher, or preacher. Just start something. The world is waiting for you!

Fit N' Fabulous Diva

Qualita

Water how much do you drink?

Summer is here and in full swing! Most of the country (U.S.) has been in a Heat Wave. It has been pretty gruesome.  The media has been encouraging us to drink water. I have never been so hydrated in my life and I am feeling Great. I decided to research some of the benefits of drinking water. In my reserarch I learned the Top 11 Benefits of Water;

1. Lose weight: Drinking water helps you lose weight because it flushes down the by-products of fat breakdown. Drinking water reduces hunger, it’s an effective appetite suppressant so you’ll eat less. Plus, water has zero calories. Here are the further details on how to achieve fat loss by drinking water.
2. Natural Remedy for Headache: Helps to relieve headache and back pains due to dehydration. Although many reasons contribute to headache, dehydration is the common one.
3. Look Younger with Healthier Skin: You’ll look younger when your skin is properly hydrated. Water helps to replenish skin tissues, moisturizes skin and increases skin elasticity.
4. Better Productivity at Work: Your brain is mostly made up of water, thus drinking water helps you think better, be more alert and more concentrated.

 

5. Better Exercise: Drinking water regulates your body temperature. That means you’ll feel more energetic when doing exercises. Water also helps to fuel your muscle.
6. Helps in Digestion and Constipation: Drinking water raises your metabolism because it helps in digestion. Fiber and water goes hand in hand so that you can have your daily bowel movement.
7. Less Cramps and Sprains: Proper hydration helps keep your joints and muscles lubricated, so you’ll less likely get cramps and sprains.
8. Less Likely to Get Sick and Feel Healthy: Drinking plenty of water helps fight against flu and other ailments like kidney stones and heart attack. Water adds with lemon is used for ailments like respiratory disease, intestinal problems, rheumatism and arthritis etc. In another words one of the benefits of drinking water is that it can improve your immune system. Follow this link for further information on how lemon water can improve your health.
9. Relieves Fatigue: Water is used by the body to help flush out toxins and waste products from the body. If your body lacks water, your heart, for instance, needs to work harder to pump out the oxygenated blood to all cells, so are the rest of the vital organs, your organs will be exhausted and so will you.
10. Good Mood: Your body feels very good and that’s why you feel happy.
11. Reduce the Risk of Cancer: Related to the digestive system, some studies show that drinking a healthy amount of water may reduce the risks of bladder cancer and colon cancer. Water dilutes the concentration of cancer-causing agents in the urine and shortens the time in which they are in contact with bladder lining.( http://www.mangosteen-natural-remedies.com/benefits-of-drinking-water.html )

I know drinking water is hard for many, they don't like the taste. There are several products on the market now that use flavors that can be added to water to make it more palatable. I challenge you start with one bottle you'll soon be craving more. So, what's your next beverage of choice?

Qualita
Fit n' Faboulous Diva

Luffa, Loofah, Lufah

Fit n' Fabulous Diva's we love our skin. The key to looking youthful is a polished bright appearance look to your skin. In the aging process we loose a lot of the vibrancy we once had prior to hormonal changes. During the winter months our skins also tends to dry out and dead skins cells are left on the surface. This can cause a dull, dry, lackluster look. Well there is a great way to keeping the skin looking youthful.

Luffa, Loofah, or Lufah is a tropical fruit grown in warm climates. In many countries this fruit is eaten as part of an everyday diet. In the United States we use the Loofah as apart of our bath tools.

We usually see Loofah in it's dried out state. The Loofah is generally used as a body polisher. The bi-weekly use of a Loofah in a spongy form or combined in body washes will aid in removing dead skin cells.The Loofah has a gentle gritty feel to it as it polishes the dead skin cells away. The result is a smooth, vibrant , and polished look.

The goal is to keep a bright youthful look which will keep them guessing at your age. Fit n' Fabulous Diva's my favorite product that contains the Loofah fruit is ;

Kiehls Soy Milk & Honey Body Polish

6.8fl oz. $28.00
It may seem a little pricey but your skin deserves it!



Natural Remedies for Peri or Menopausal Symptoms

Black Cohosh

Fit n' Fabulous Divas over 40, this week I want to share with you two Natural Herbal Remedies that have done me a world of good. I am 52 and loving life, and my body has been going thru some Menopausal changes. Maybe you have been experiencing some of these symptoms too:

• Hot flashes/night sweats
• Fatigue
• Cravings for sweets/carbs
• Diminished sexual desire/vaginal dryness
• Irritability, mood swings,depression or anxiety
• Insomnia, or restless sleep
• Fuzzy thinking
• Weight gain
• Stiffness and joint pain
• Irregular periods

Many of these symptoms occur because our bodies are experiencing hormonal imbalance. It has been proven that HRT (hormone replacement therapy) has been linked to many cancers. So I have looked into more natural remedies. I have found two herbal solutions that work for me. (I am not recommending them as medicinal solutions just giving you information you can investigate them for yourself.)

Black Cohosh is a native American herb, taken in capsule form. It provides a natural estrogen. In the 1950's many hospitals used this to treat women having menopausal symptoms. Estrogen loss occurs when our ovaries stop producing.

Wild Yam

Wild Yam, used in cream form. I love this wonder cream, it has been a mainstay for me. I rub in onto the soft parts of my body daily. It is absorbed best thru the skin. The Wild Yam produces a natural progesterone. Our bodies need to have a healthy balance of Estrogen and Progesterone. During Peri and Menopause this hormones tend to get off balance. The use of Wild Yam has reduced my mood swings, it helps with depression and irritability.

Menopause is a natural progression in our lives. As Fit n' Fabulous Diva's we can enjoy our lives as we journey thru this season !

references:http://www.preventativeconcept.com/women/index.shtml

Be a Smart and Savvy Shopper

 As a Fashionista I have a passion for shopping ,so I have had to  become a savvy smart bargain hunter.Staying on trend is important but not at the expense of compromising my budget. The clothing in my wardrobe is valued at much more than I ever actually paid for them.

Whenever I shop I head straight for the sale racks. I often see shoppers pass the sale rack like these are defective or old styles. Many of the items on the sale rack are placed there because they may be the only one in stock or not enough of them to place on a full rack for sale. If I don't see a sale rack I always ask to be shown to the items on sale.

In recent years many websites have surfaced that offer designer wear at discounted prices. The designers have realized they may be losing some of their potential market, so they place their designs onto these websites. The websites may require that you register with your email address to have full access to their web pages.

I use these websites often to purchase affordable unique fashions that are from established or up and coming designers. Visit these websites today, it's not too early to start shopping for your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

http://www.igigi.com/ fashions

http://www.hautelook.com/ fashions,jewelry, vacation bargains and beauty products

http://www.sendthetrend.com/ jewelry

http://www.simplyme.com/ fashions

http://www.pennigtons.com/ fashions

http://www.solesociety.com/ shoes

http://www.additionelle.com/ fashions

http://www.heels.com/ shoes

http://www.loehmanns.com/ fashions

Enjoy Your Shopping!

Happy New Year 2012 !!!!

Happy New Year! New beginnings for me bring with it excitement, anticipation and promise. A New Year is like a blank canvas, you can fill it whatever way you desire. Many snub resolutions but I love them whether they are all acheived or not. Without a plan or vision you have no guide posts to keep you on track. So Fit n' Fabulous Divas get to writing. Write the vision and make it plain, then run with it. Post in places where you and others can see it. Challenge yourself to step out of the box more than you did in 2011. I plan to take a class, start another hobby, join a book club, and fellowship more with women of other nationalities, just expand my horizons. Do whatever it takes to expose more of the "EXTRAORDINARY YOU." You are a Fit n' Fabulous Diva manifest it this year!! Here are a few tips to get us started in eating healthier in 2012!

The 15 Best Fat-Burning FoodsThese are foods that start winnowing your waistline the moment they leave your fork and enter your mouth. They build muscle, promote fat burning, or simply use energy (i.e., burn calories) just to digest them! Stock up today.By Selene Yeager photo: Hemera/Thinkstock Womens Health Magazine Almonds and other nuts: (with skins intact) Build muscle, reduce cravings Dairy products: (fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese) Build strong bones, fire up weight loss Eggs: Build muscle, burn fat Turkey and other lean meats: Build muscle, strengthen immune system Berries: Improve satiety, prevent cravings Enova oil (soy and canola oil): Promotes fullness, not easily stored as fat Peanut butter: Boosts testosterone (a good thing even in women), builds muscle, burns fat Fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, mackerel): Trigger fullness, fire up fat burning Grapefruit: Lowers insulin, regulates blood sugar and metabolism; be sure to eat the fleshy white membranes Green tea: Fires up fat burning Chili peppers: Spikes metabolism Spinach and green vegetables: Fight free radicals and improve recovery for better muscle building Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, whole grain cereal): Small doses prevent body from storing fat Beans and legumes: Build muscle, help burn fat, regulate digestion Whey: Builds muscle, burns fat

Faux Fur

Fit n' Fabulous Diva Fashionistas, Faux Fur. It's everywhere, vest, hats, gloves, coats and handbags. You must have a piece in your wardrobe this year to be on-trend. I have found several stores that carry high quality faux fur items in misses and women's sizes. Here we go; http://www.shopnbc.com Check out the Pam Mccoy Collection. Price range $50.00-250.00 Pam McCoys furs are called replicas you truly cannot tell the difference. (I own several) http://www.hsn.com The Adrienne Landau collection. Adrienne brings her faux furs to HSN, she is well known for designing for high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. Price range $150.00-300.00 http://www.oldnavy.com fun flirty and reasonably priced faux fur items. Price range $15.00-50.00 http://www.kmart.com The LYS and Jacquelyn Smith collections offer great faux fur items. Yes Kmart is stepping into the fashion arena. Price range $25.00-34.99 These are a few of the places I have found good fashion forward on trend pieces. Wherever you decide to shop just be sure to add some fur! Happy Holidays! Fit n' Fabulous Divas!

Cold Weather Proof Your Skin

Our skin in a part of the Integumentary system. It helps protect our body from outside elements. During the winter season the cold harsh elements tend to dry our skin out. This drying can cause cracked skin which can be painful and irritating.

I have listed a few of my favorite cold weather proofing products. These products are made with all natural ingredients and provide emollient protection that is not overly greasy.



Rosa Arctica 1.7 oz $ 60.00
This face cream is rich in natural botannical ingredients that provide a healthy glow. This is my favorite face moisturizer it coats my skin and helps keep the cold weather from blistering. Purchase this product at http://www.kiehls.com





Almond Shower Gel 8.4 oz $24.00
Excellent shower oil. This favorite is an almond oil that foams when it is exposed to water. This shower oil cleanses and leaves a slight oily film that moisturizes and hydrates the skin. with this product you do not have to uses any additional lotions or cremes. Purchase at http://www.loccitane.com




Creme De Corps $10.00-$72.00 various sizes
This is the ultimate body lotion. This Creme of the Crop provides a healthy moisturizer that leaves your skin supple and soft. The formula is non-greasy and does not have a fragrance. I like this aspect because it does not interfere with my fragrance selection. Purchase at http://www.kiehls.com

These products I guarantee you will love as much as I do. Stay tuned for more beauty and fashion tips from me, the Fit-n-Fabulous Diva!

Blessings!

Girls Slumber Party

Grown-Up Girls Stress-Busting Slumber Party

This is a great idea, plan one today! Invite Me!

Remember when your biggest problem was choosing a prom gown or letting the boy you liked know how you felt? Ahh, those were the days. Problems seemed so great, yet in the grand scheme of things, you really only needed a chocolate milkshake or a pint of Ben & Jerry's to assuage your every concern.

Now, with faster-paced lives, more personal and familial responsibilities and even greater problems, sometimes it takes more than a chocolate milkshake or even a gallon of Chunky Monkey could tackle.

For an easier take on life, women truly need to make time for their families, their friends, and essentially, themselves. The key to a successful balance is making time for these entities separately, resulting in a happier life with reduced stressors and a more relaxed outlook.

Family time and personal time can be arranged on a day-to-day basis, with special family meals and movie time, game time or special trips and outings together on the weekends. Bubble baths, naps, scrap-booking, baking and shopping provide nice options for alone time, while activities like yoga, Pilates and general exercise routines can be as good for the soul as they are for the body.

To complete the balance, women should keep in touch with friends and plan get-togethers at least once a year, but preferably more often. As people grow up and move on with their lives, it is common that many friends may find themselves miles and miles, and even states apart. This may call for an old-school approach to the common problems of womanhood.

So who says you're too old for sleepovers once you're married, anyway? Toss your cares to the wind and call up all your old friends and all your new ones in an effort to get the gang together for a night of relaxation, reminiscence and rejuvenation. Send the kids to your parents or your husband's parents house (or failing that, to their friend's house for a sleepover!). Dash out to the supermarket to pick up a few key snacks and ask each friend to bring a goodie to eat and a goodie for the soul.


Acceptable edible goodies for slumber party:

•Baked goods , especially cookies, cupcakes, candy, pastries, etc.
•Cheese and crackers
•Veggie tray
•Shrimp cocktail or other hors doeuvres
•Wine or other beverage of choice
•Pizza
•Tea and hot cocoa
•Other delicious foods

While it is nice to eat healthy and practice a diet all the time, sometimes a little snack here or there might not hurt. Be sure to offer both junk food and healthy food options in case your guests have just begun a new diet. Faithful standbys like ice cream and frozen treats may best be provided by the hostess.


Goodies for the soul may include:

•Photos and scrapbooks from your earlier days
•Home videos and especially videos showing each other
•Favorite movies, especially ladies movies
•Craft projects like knitting and crocheting
•Pedicure kits
•Manicure kits and plenty of nail polish
•Facials
•Aromatherapy
•Music
•lady magazines
•Board games and other fun activities

During your girls slumber party, relax and revisit your past. Spend time with your girlfriends the women who got you through all those tough times and influenced you enough to have even a slight impact on who you are today.

Take the time to go through photographs from years gone by. Enjoy every moment and take new photographs so you have more memories to hold dear. Watch an old favorite movie and reminisce about the days in college when the flick was your soul's medicine during every bad day or every break-up. Indulge in sweet temptations, even if this is the last time before you start your diet.

8 Foods You Should Eat Daily for Optimum Health

I believe in eating only fresh foods After 50 I believe we must take a different attitude in our eating. The years forward are crucial if we want to live happy healthy productive lives in our senior years. I read this article and felt to share this with all of you Fit n Fabulous Divas!! Being youthful and beautiful is just a small perk to the health benefits you'll receive.




1. Spinach - It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.


2. Yogurt - Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.


3. Tomatoes - There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.


4. Carrots - Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.


5. Blueberries - Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.


6. Black Beans - All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.


7. Walnuts - Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.


8. Oats - The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.

Photos and article source: BestLifeOnline

The Wonders of Essential Oils

Peppermint, Anise, Myrrh, Frankincense, Vanilla…Just to name a few essential oils.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils for the psychological and physical well being. These oils are called “Essential Oils.” In recent years it has become very trendy to have an aromatherapy session when you have your spa services. The benefits of aromatherapy have been so longed ignored, or viewed as mystical. But these plant oils were put here on earth by God to aid in the healing and comfort of the human body. The essential oils offer a wide and varied range of benefits, headache cures, relaxation, to open sinuses, allergy relief,antiseptic uses and more. Be careful when you are buying items that may say Aromatherapy read the label and make sure they actually contain an essential oil.

Essential oils can be inhaled or placed topically on the skin. The benefit of inhaling essential oils into the lungs offers the most to psychological and physical benefits. It triggers a reaction to the brain, also inhalation by the lungs helps release the therapeutic benefits faster. Physical application on the skin helps it to be absorbed into the bloodstream. The benefits of skin absorption benefits can be helpful with beauty, health and hygiene. *Whenever applying essential oils to the skin make sure they are diluted with a carrier*

Historically the ancient Egyptians and Chinese were the first cultures to use the practice of aromatherapy. They utilized the natural elements that God placed in the earth to give off healing properties. The list of essential oils is extensive. To learn more about the Essential Oils please send me an email for my free e-book, plusizediva@gmail.com. I am sure you will find a regimen that suits your health needs.


Here are some of my favorite websites that offer grade “A” quality Essential Oils:

http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com
http://www.wingsets.com
http://www.wingedseed.com
http://www/wellspringtrading.com

Loving being a Fit-n-Fabulous Diva
Qualita

What are you feeding your skin?

Fit n’ Fabulous Divas!

Our skin is the most important system of our body. The skin provides so many tasks to keep our bodies healthy and functioning, but it is the one body system that is often overlooked. To keep a youthful look over forty you have to start a regimen to feed your skin. Here are a few of my favorites that I use. My skin is soft, and supple with a youthful glow. When your skin is healthy your body is healthy and you will have a general euphoric feeling.

I use organic products only. The list I have prepared for you is an excellent source of nourishment for your skin.

Greenscape Products:

Organic Olive Exfoliating Salt Scrub $10.99-only pure plant oils and no mineral oils.

Honey, Rhubarb, and Mint Invigorating Body Wash $12.99-beneficial multi-grain goodness.

Orange, Corn and Fenugreek dermal feed bath soak $12.99

Organic Homemade Cucumber, Apple and Rice Bran facial mask $8.99

These products can be ordered at http://www.somerset-distribution.com Visit the “Our Brands” tab and select Homemade Greenscape Products. Let the healing begin!

Loving being a healthy Diva!

Natural Hair and Skin Products

Greetings!

Hey Fit n’ Fabulous Divas!

In the beginning of 2010 I decided to get healthy physically. I also decided to include a transformation in my hair and skin care. Many call this going “Natural.” I am enjoying this journey so much I have decided to share some of the awesome products I have come across with you.

My goal was to find products that would feed and nourish my hair and skin as I was feeding and nourishing my body. I have stopped all chemicals from my diet eating only organic foods. My health has drastically improved. My blood pressure has lowered, I have lost 50lbs and my good cholesterol has elevated. So in my search to stay consistent with my new healthy diet, I looked for organic homemade hair and skin products. The lists below are some of my favorite products, their websites and some price information. If you have any questions or comments feel free to email me plusizediva@gmail.com

http://www.Going-natural.com

This site has a great shampoo without chemicals and sulfates. I recommend Black Olive Soap; it smells awesome and leaves your hair soft and manageable. They also make a Silky Shea Butter. I use this on my hair and skin. Price ranges $10.00-25.00

http://www.oyin-handmade.com

This is one of my favorite sites. They make a hair pomade called “Burnt Sugar.” It soothes and nourishes the scalp and smells so good. I often use their shampoo called “The Grand Poo Bar.” It is a succulent solid shampoo bar that produces suds that will not strip your hair. Price ranges $10.00-$45.00

http://www.beautybydonnamarie.com

This site offers many natural hair and skin products. I use the MiraCurl Detangler, and Supper Buttercreme great for curls, waves, kinks, and coils. Price ranges 2 piece sets $25.00 – 4 piece sets $45.00

http://www.essentious.com

All of the products offer no sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, petroleum or parabens. I get lost in this site.

http://www.janellebeauty.com

Home of the “Diva” natural hair straightening system. If you like to have your hair natural but straight it is offered here. The system costs $49.99. The site also offers natural hair products for all textures of hair. Love it!!

http://www.noahsnaturals.com

Noah offers skin care products made from organic ingredients. They offer an excellent face regimen from prep to cleansing. They are reasonably priced.

Also don't forget Walmart they have alot of product offerings that are all natural.

I hope that you will take a moment and visit these sites you will surely find something you can use. I wish you a long and prosperous healthy life!

Loving being a Diva!

Qualita

Fit n' Fabulous Skin Care

Hey There!

I want to share with you all a Fit n'Fabulous skincare regimen for the woman over 40. I begin to notice that my skin was not as elastic as it used to be. There was no glow. So with a little investigation I developed a skin care regimen that has left my skin smooth, soft, supple with a youthful glow. I will share with you the products I uses and less costly alternatives.

To start I get a facial every three months. My favorite spot is Blue Mercury in Philadelphia 1707 Walnut st. My esthetician is Kimberly Murray she is awesome. An esthetician can help you address skin care issues and recommend products. After my facial my skin feels great with an awesome glow. Now for my daily regimen.

The A.M.

I begin with a facial scrub. My favorite products come from the Caudalie of Paris line. The price range starts at $12.00-$150.00 available at all Sephora Stores or http://www.sephora.com .
The scrub removes dead skin, impurities and blackheads. After cleansing the next step is moisturizing. I use Caudalie Energizing Moisturizer. These products contain grape seed oil.

Another favorite is Laboratoire Remede Alchemy product available at Bliss Stores or http://www.bliss.com Price range is $79.00-$382.00 This product contains grape seed oil, it smells great and leaves your skin so smooth and supple.

For the eye zone I use YonKa Phyto-Contour for puffiness and dark circles $56.00 available at Beans Beauty Store or http://beansbeauty.com

Here are a few less costly alternatives, St. Ives Apricot Scrub $2.99 at Wal-Mart stores, Vitamin E Cream by The Body Shop $10.00 and Garnier eye cream $4.99 at Wal-Mart stores.

The P.M.
I clean my face with soap and water. After cleansing I uses Caudalie Night Cream Complex &79.00 and Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy $4.99 at your local drugstore. The Aquaphor is a great moisturizer for your lips. It is important to keep your skin moisturized while you sleep, your pillow can be very drying on your face.

Less costly alternatives, use BIO-OIL $15.00 at Wal-Mart stores. This oil is great for age lines, wrinkles, stretch marks and dry patches. I love the smell and it l eaves your skin blemish free. I also like Oil of Olay Complete Night Fortifying Cream $10.00 at local Wal-Marts.

Well this is my regimen, I can guarantee if you follow this and drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin you will have healthy glowing skin even over 40.

The Plus Size Diva

Fit and Fabulous Over 40

I have been away for awhile, but I'm back. Stay tuned for exciting posts from me regarding being Fit n' Fabulous over 40. You can be a DIVA no matter the size or age.

Blessings!

Week September 28-A Firm Foundation

There is nothing worse than seeing a Plus Size Diva in an outfit that shows all of her cellulite bumps and lumps. In my grandmom's day they were corsetted and girdled down, no more. We have come a long way baby.The best way to pull a great outfit together is by starting with great foundations. Many of us say girdles are taboo, I say "Spanx." This wonder garment smooths your figure and creates a great look under any outfit. The material of Spanx gives you great flexibility and mobility. When wearing Spanx, the fabric seems to breathe, allowing for no sweating. Spanx comes in Long Line style, Panty style, Pant Liners and Cami's. They are now accessible at Lane Bryant's stores, all locations and on-line www.lanebryant.com .

Another garment is Secret Solutions by Comfort Choice. This is a line of body shapers at a very affordable price. You can order Secret Solution at www.womanwithin.com

For the perfect fitting bras, Plus Size Diva's, I suggest Bali Bras, available at J.C. Penny's www.jcp.com and my favorite The Goddess Bra available on-line www.ladygrace.com . Bras that fit not only give you a polished look, but getting the correct size bras aids in Breast Health. Take you measurements, the fullest part of your breast. GET THE RIGHT SIZE. No more muffin tops peeking out of the top of our bras, tacky!!

So Diva's let's smooth it out!
Remember make your style Unique, Distinct and with Classy Attitude!

Tunics, Tunics, Tunics

I love it, Tunics are back. All you need is a pair of black leggings and you are set. You are ready for a casual setting or an evening out. Accessorize with long bulky necklaces, chunky bangles and stretch belting.For the plus size Diva you can't go wrong with a Tunic. They provide a relaxed cut that covers the hip and tummy areas. This fashion must have is great with a pair of ankle boots or stiletto's.

Great places to purchase stylish Tunics at affordable prices are:

Fashion Bug sizes 16-30 http://www.fashionbug.com/

Ashley Stewart 12-26 http://www.ashleystewart.com/

Lane Bryant 12-28 http://www.lanebryant.com/

Remember make your style Unique, Distinct, and with Classy Attitude.