Archive for the ‘Beauty and Exercise’ Category
August 2nd, 2010 | Beauty and Exercise, Events, Health, Maternity Wear, Preferred Vendors | No Comments |
Set your calendars mamas-to-be! On August 17th, the La Jolla maternity store, Modish Maternity, will be co-hosting a mixer at their store on August 17, 2010. Bliss Nine’s preferred vendor – personal trainer for mommies pre/post partum – Connie Marshall will be there to demonstrate prenatal exercises. There will be food and shopping! (cost: $10 per person) See below regarding the details of the event and RSVP soon!
Please join Connie Marshall, Certified Pre/Post Exercise Specialist and Owner of LifeFitness4Me and Tammy Layson, Owner of Modish
Maternity, San Diego’s BEST designer maternity store for their Mama-2-Be Mixer event!
When: Tuesday, August 17, 2010 from 5:00PM-6:30PM
Where: Modish Maternity
1000 Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 551-1800
Admission: $10.00 per person
RSVP: Email connie@LifeFitness4Me.com for RSVP Link (RSVP Deadline: Saturday, August 14, 2010) – SPACE IS LIMITED
Guests can…
• Shop the racks of Modish Maternity for some of the hot designer maternity clothes;
• Sample delicious foods prepared by Julie Barber, Personal Chef and Owner of Bellyful Meals;
• Learn some great prenatal exercises demonstrated by Connie Marshall, Certified Pre/Post Natal Exercise Specialist and Owner of
LifeFitness4Me;
• Mingle and make friends with other mamas-2-be;
• And more…
http://www.LifeFitness4Me.com ~ http://www.modishmaternity.com ~ http://www.bellyfulmeals.com
July 10th, 2010 | Beauty and Exercise, Eco-friendly, Giveaways, baby shower, products | 3 Comments |
Are you pregnant or know someone who is and needs a little pampering? Sign up for the giveaway of the Pregnancy Pampering Kit, courtesy of Earth Mama Angel Baby. It’s the perfect gift for a mama-to-be! Retailing for $39.95, the products in the kit include the tea sampler, herbal foot soak, natural stretch oil (reviewed here), body butter, and bottom balm. Earth Mama Angel Baby’s natural products are toxin free and completely organic. Read my review of the natural stretch oil. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard mothers rave about their products.
To win: Look on the Earth Mama Angel Baby website and choose an item you have tried or would like to try and comment on this Bliss Nine blog as to what that is. Comment by next Monday, July 19th to win! A winner will be selected at random and notified. Good luck!
May 14th, 2010 | Beauty and Exercise, Eco-friendly, Gifts, Health, products | 1 Comment |
Being pregnant, my clients are always concerned about what they are eating and whether the food is safe or good for the baby. During my second time around, I was concerned about what affects lotions and other skin products would have on my baby. Since skincare products absorb into your skin, you can’t be too careful of what your unborn baby may be absorbing as well. So my last blog entry (informally Pregnancy Skincare Part I) was about the Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil for the belly. I also said I used the California Baby Lotion for my belly and I used it for the rest of my body. It’s a great natural lotion with a light scent, and is paraben free.
During the beginning of my pregnancy I used the Clean and Clear sunscreen moisturizer – really only because I got it for free from a friend who worked at Neutrogena. But I really wanted something paraben free and organic (i.e. safe for me and baby). So after reading reviews, talking to some Sephora representatives, I decided to try Josie Maran’s Protect Daily Sun Protection. Ms. Maran’s skin care line’s main publicized ingredient is Argan Oil and you can view her product ingredient information page for more information on her ingredients. Apparently, Argan Oill started being “trendy” a couple of years ago. Read this review on Argan Oil’s history. The claim is that Argan Oil contains antioxidants, Vitamin E and nourishes and protects the skin.
I tried it on my hand at first and it had a sticky feel. The sales representative at Sephora said it would feel different on my face. So, with that in mind, and the reviews I had read about this product, I purchased it for $32 and tried it out. It does leave light film on the face, but with an SPF of +40, it seems to do it’s job in providing skin coverage and moisturizing. I put a bit of foundation on top after letting it absorb for 15 minutes, as suggested by the product packaging. The ingredient list reads like a chemistry texbook. And since I’m not a chemist, I’m relying on the product’s claims of being organic as well as some basic research on the individual ingredients listed. Check out Treehugger’s recent blog about whether Josie Maran’s award winning products are indeed “green” and judge for yourself.
As for me, I will definitely try her makeup products – as makeup is known for their lack of strict regulations and phthalates. Here is a simple reference to the Environmental Working Group’s Shopping Guide for Safe Cosmetics. Also, Mother Love’s website has a great article on the chemicals to watch for in body lotion ingredients.
May 5th, 2010 | Beauty and Exercise, Eco-friendly, Gifts, Giveaways, baby shower, products | 3 Comments |
Throughout my first pregnancy, I used an expensive stretch mark preventative lotion (not to be named), given to me by a friend who swore by it and her friends swore by it. Isn’t that how we come to get most of our products? I dutifully slathered on the thick lotion on my belly morning and night. I knew there were parabens in it and that it wasn’t “natural”…but I had also seen my mother’s post-birthing belly and knew stretch marks were my destiny – so I needed all the help I could get. Stretch marks formed during the last two months of my pregnancy and were doomed to stay there for almost a year in all their purple striped glory. That expensive cream didn’t do a thing.
Come time for pregnancy number 2 – this time I didn’t use any specific products on my belly. Why put chemical laden lotions on my belly when it didn’t appear to help? When it got itchy, I just slathered on my toddler’s toxin-free California Baby lotion. I knew the stretch marks would soon arrive and probably leave a deeper impression than last time (even though they had significantly faded over time). Then I had a call from Julie of Earth Mama Angel Baby to review some products and participate in a giveaway on my blog. She graciously let me choose the item I wanted to try. Of course, I chose their Natural Stretch Oil! Though I had about 2 months left of pregnancy to go, I hadn’t seen any stretch marks develop and thought – even if this oil doesn’t help, at least its non-toxic, organic and vegan. As soon as I received it, I rubbed it on all over my belly. Usually scented products made me nauseous. Most pregnant women shun products with heavy scents. Though the Natural Stretch Oil has an herbal scent to it, I actually enjoyed the light scent. The best part was the oil absorbed easily and didn’t cling to my clothes or create a slick sensation.
 Now for the results: I’m currently almost 2 weeks post-partum…drum roll please…… no stretch marks!!! Okay, so I gained 15 pounds less than my last pregnancy, which may have something to do with it. But based on research, stretch marks will either be there or not. There is really no way to prevent them. So whether the oil helped or not, it was nice to know that I was putting something on that relieved the itchy belly and I knew was safe for my body and for baby. I’d like to think it did do something to prevent the marks from appearing  .
The product can also be used to massage the perineum in preparation for birth. I had intended to use the oil for this purpose as well because I had a bad experience with my episiotomy the first time, but I really never found the time or willingness to have my husband help me do this. But what a great option! I love it when a product has multiple purposes!
I will post the giveaway of the Pregnancy Pampering Kit in June, which includes the Natural Stretch Oil. In the meantime, if you want to give a gift to a mama with the propensity for stretch marks, tell her not to worry, enjoy the pregnancy and try the Natural Stretch Oil from Earth Mama Angel Baby. I will definitely be recommending this and the other products from Earth Mama Angel Baby to my clients!
And right now, the site is offering $10 for their Mother’s Day Special!
September 17th, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Events, Health, Preferred Vendors | 1 Comment |
Have you always wanted to try a prenatal massage but wasn’t sure if you would be comfortable or whether it would be safe? Then you must sign up for a free pre- and perinatal massage therapy session, being held the afternoon of Saturday, September 26th. You will be massaged by a student learning the specialty of prenatal massage under the watchful eye of long-time certified expert, massage-therapist, teacher in the field – Carole Osborne-Sheets, of Body Therapy Associates.
Bliss Nine is ecstatic to have Body Therapy Associates be our preferred vendor in prenatal massage therapy. Carole is extremely knowledgeable (she is currently updating a textbook on massage therapy), and has been training and certifying therapists in Southern California for many years in prenatal massage therapy. We recently visited her new location in Kensington, and it is the cutest place and so relaxing for her clients. She showed us the cushions used to make pregnant women comfortable and some new products she was working on in improving the comfort and well-being of her clients. We love the unscented massage oil, which not only helps women who dislike certain scents, but the oil doesn’t leave you oily! We can’t wait until we can try it out ourselves in a full massage one of these days. And Carole herself is just a calming presence. She is eager to share her knowledge and make you feel comfortable in her space.
The free massage session is open to women who are beyond twelve weeks pregnant and whose pregnancies are low risk and without complications. Please call (858) 277-8827 or (800) 586-8322 or email cos9@aol.com for more information and to reserve a session time. There are currently 10 spots open. The spaces will go fast. Who couldn’t use a FREE massage?! Not pregnant, tell someone about the upcoming event!
If you can’t make the September 26th massage session, you get a discount to Carole’s services through Bliss Nine. Contact us for more information.
August 15th, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Health, Preferred Vendors | 1 Comment |
I never told Connie this story, but months ago, my husband texted me the following: www.lifefitness4me.com. I had no idea what that meant and forgot to look it up and he didn’t remind me to look it up. Then one day I received an email from Connie Marshall, who told me she was referred to me and we set up a time to meet.
Upon meeting her, you get the immediate vibe that she has her stuff together! Connie recently started her business but has been working personally and professionally to get the experience and certifications to specialize in the prenatal and postnatal training of women. She is certified in high risk training and is nationally certified as well. I was completely drawn to her knowledge, her professionalism and enthusiasm in what she does – which is customized personal training. She will go to your home and show you customized ways to do your personal physical best. Check out her website for information on her training and the benefits of exercising while pregnant as well as after giving birth. We are all busy women, and Connie just makes things easier to be your physical best. We can certainly appreciate that.
So when I told my husband I met Connie, he immediately asked if she owned “Life Fitness 4 Me”. I said yes! He said, he had seen her car at the gym and texted me to give her a call. So for some reason or another, Connie and I were meant to meet and work together!
As a preferred vendor, you will get a discount for Connie’s services through Bliss Nine.
August 12th, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Celebrities, Giveaways, Health | 2 Comments |
It’s important to exercise or get some movement during pregnancy. Studies have shown that women who exercise during pregnancy have an easier time during delivery of their baby. Pregnant with her second child, Gabrielle Reece worked with a doctor and trainer to film 15 minute workouts from each month of her pregnancy as well as three months after her pregnancy. This DVD covers all 3 trimesters consisting of nine 15 minute exercises for women during their pregnancy as well as warm up and cool down sessions.
The video requires some equipment to start, such as elastic bands and an exercise ball (make sure you use an anti-burst ball/maternity ball). So have those on hand before starting. Also have some water and a towel nearby, should you need it. Don’t be frustrated if you feel like she and the trainer move faster than you are ready for. I often find that with the exercise DVDs. Once you get the hang of the exercises, you will be moving just as speedily along. This DVD Retails at $19.97.
To win: please submit a comment on why you would like to win this DVD.
August 2nd, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Health, Preferred Vendors | No Comments |
We are going to give guest blogging a try here since we have met so many great people and vendors in the industry. We are pleased to introduce our first guest blogger, one of our recently added preferred vendors, Connie Marshall, who is a certified personal trainer and frankly, has it going on! We will do a blog about meeting her later.
Recently, a Mamasource reader had a question about when the best time to work out would be given her busy schedule and raising 2 kids. And can’t we all relate to that question?! When do we squeeze in the time? Here is what Connie, a certified personal trainer and has certifications in pre-natal and post-partum fitness training, has to say.
“First off, good job with making the effort to workout during your pregnancy! Whenever we start something new, we start with great excitement and determination, however, it can be difficult to keep the motivation going, BUT don’t give up! Set small obtainable goals and reward the small changes you make – it will make the transition to exercising that much more rewarding and easier to stick with. Also, remember, it’s only been a week that you started this new workout regiment and the body doesn’t like it and it will want you to stop, but give it 2-3 weeks of consistency and you’ll soon find that you’re body will be “expecting” that workout. As for the pros and cons to working out in the evening versus working out in the morning is purely a personal preference – some people prefer the morning to get it out of the way. If you choose to workout in the evening you should wait between 60-90 minutes after eating to workout. This will allow the body to time to focus on digesting the food and minimize cramping. I also recommend you’re you workout at least 2 hours before bed time to allow the body time to come back down from the endorphin high, so you can get a good night rest. Remember to stay hydrated during your workout and have a protein shake immediately following your workout, at least 1-2 hours before bed.”
Connie Marshall
Pre/Post Natal Exercise Specialist
http://www.Lifefitness4Me.com
THANKS CONNIE! Remember, you get a discount through Bliss Nine with our preferred vendors, including Connie’s services!
April 20th, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Safety, products, recalls | 1 Comment |
The CPSC has recalled about three million fitness balls due to the possibility of the ball exploding due to over-inflation. The company called EB Brands has received 47 reports of balls unexpectedly bursting and injuries sustained due to the defects. They were sold nationwide, between May 2000 to February 2009. The warnings from EB Brands state that the balls should not be used during the pregnancy period. However, it is not unlikely that they would be purchased for use as a birthing ball.
Therefore, Bliss Nine recommends that you cease using them altogether for fitness or pregnancy purposes. As for birthing ball quality, always choose a premium quality anti-burst birthing ball specifically made for birthing pregnancy purposes.
February 22nd, 2009 | Beauty and Exercise, Health, Safety | No Comments |
There is conflicting information as to whether one can/should drink tonic water while pregnant. Some people believe tonic water helps relieve leg cramps. And as most pregnant women experience severe leg cramps (severe – like kicking the husband in bed while he is comfortably in REM sleep mode so he knows a tiny bit of the pain you are going through), they do what they can to relieve the pain. Because tonic water contains the ingredient quinine, some medical studies have shown that women who have taken quinine during pregnancy had a higher chance of giving birth to babies with birth defects and problems.
If you have leg cramps, focus on stretching, drinking plenty of water, eating potassium rich foods and did we mention stretching?! Do calf stretches throughout the day and before going to bed. And a helpful tip from a mom who had horrible leg cramps – she tried swimming (as recommended by her doctor), which really helped relieve the pain. So stay active, well rested and hydrated.
|
