So I did the Big Chop…

Yes. I. Did. The. Big. Chop.

When: December 16, 2012.

Where: Linstead, Jam-Rock

I woke up that morning and said today I would cut off all my relaxer. This may have seemed quite spontaneous but actually it wasn’t. I’d been contemplating the idea for months in advance though I hadn’t made a definite decision to do so. Part of me wanted to end the year with a new ‘do and attitude. The other part of me thought it sentimental and honorary to do it on the anniversary of my last relaxer (March 3, 2012). When I’d throw the idea out to well-meaning friends and family, I’d get the “Why so soon?”, “Let your hair grow out a bit more” (by then they had given up on trying to talk me out of going natural). But there were two very strong arguments against waiting. I will discuss them below:

1.       It Takes Too Damn Long to Detangle My Hair!

Saturday nights are designated for washing/conditioning/maybe deep treatment/detangling/setting. The washing/conditioning isn’t so bad. I mean all you have to do is apply and massage into your scalp and hair and rinse. Sounds easy enough, right? Yes! But then comes the detangling part. OMG! This was by far the worst part of my hair regimen. Besides the fact that I had two different hair textures dealing with, my hair was just so ridiculously prone to tangling! My old hair dresser from my teen years had told me I had fine hair and that’s why it tangled so much. Even when my hair was just relaxed, I was never one of those girls who could just take a wide-tooth comb and detangling my hair. On beach days, my hair was always knotted and crazy, no matter how hard I tried.  So my situation was just incredibly frustrating. Detangling alone would take me three hours or more with so much breakage. Needless to say, that was not how I wanted to spend my Saturday nights.

2.       I Want Short Hair!

Something about short hair reminds me of a fearless, strong and empowered woman who doesn’t need long hair or much else to feel beautiful. It’s like a small rebellion against the norms of society. A woman with short hair says, “Here I am. I’m not hiding behind anything because I know I’m beautiful and strong. Like it or love it, this is me and proud of it.” Ok, maybe short hair not so much, but short natural hair always brought those sentiments to mind: A woman wild and free from society’s dictates on “good hair” and “bad hair”. I wanted to be that woman so the idea of the big chop enticed me a lot more than long-term transitioning. It meant I wasn’t afraid to see myself in way that most people may not approve of and that I was okay with that (not being so mainstream and my short, kinky, curly, coily hair) and, most importantly, I was okay with me. Not mention, I wanted no regrets. I’ve seen so many beautiful ladies who’d taken the plunge and their journey throughout growing their hair and I also wanted to experience my hair in all its glory – from short to long. I never wanted to look back and say, “I wonder how I’d look with short, natural hair”. The idea was also very exciting to me because I had always been adventurous with my hair growing up. I used to cut Christina Aguilera side (circa 1999/2000) bangs at age 10/11. I cut my hair in a bob and bleached it myself at age 15. Coloured it every summer after that during high school (my school didn’t allow students to wear colour in their hair). With adulthood came complacency and boredom and I figured it was about time I got out of this rut.

This brings me to the day I finally did the big chop. I had in 16 inch-Brazilian body wave human hair extensions (full head). I had gotten the weave for my wedding because after nine months of agonizingly growing out my hair, there was no way I was going back to creamy crack for one day to start all over again (my wedding day was super important but really? Three hours just to detangle?). Besides, there was the honeymoon situation. Beach, sand and water are not friends with the relaxer and, worse, transitioning girl. So I put it up in a weave and thought my troubles would be a thing of the past. I was so wrong. After the salon-did ‘do wore off after the wedding, I still had pieces of my hair at the front, sides and back out and it just wouldn’t behave. It looked quite obvious I had on weave. This was not due to bad hair piece or the stylist. She had in fact done it perfectly to the style I had wanted for my W day. But my hair just seemed to pouf and frizz super easy (little did I know it was seriously heat-damaged due to the hot iron at the salon in effort to blend my natural hair with the weave). Man, and no one told me about the itching. My husband kept telling me I looked like a crack head – itching, patting. I just wanted it out. Plus, it really gave me the extra push when my super supportive hubby said he couldn’t wait to see it on me. I wanted it, he wanted it so why not?

The day we left the hotel, we went straight to hair salon in my hometown. The stylist kept asking me, “Are you sure you want to do this?” “We’ve all gone through that phase where we want natural hair. I did but there’s not much you can do with it.” She was wrong of course; the natural hair community on youtube.com had taught me that. And even thought I was getting jitters, deep down I knew it was what I wanted and I’d be super disappointed with myself if I had chickened out. I had my main support system with me recording and cheering me on so I knew it was going to be fine. I was ready to officially start my natural hair journey!

What’s Next?

Kinky Curly Coily Awesomeness!!!

Exercise Move of the Week

Jab/Cross Combo


Almost everyone wants a tight anf flat tummy. That's probably why the mid-section tends to receive the most attention during most workout routines. But instead of looking at the abs as a singular set of muscles set apart from the rest of our body, we need to see it as a whole - the core of the entire body. More specifically, your abs and back work together to stabilize and support the body. To get the smokin' abs everybody wants as well as toning your back, arms and legs, try the jab/cross combo which I swear by!

Step 1: Start off with you left leg in front and you right let behind, slightly turned out. Bend the knees slightly. Raise your arms to shoulder level, making fists. Your elbows should be down, protecting your ribs (pretend you're in a boxing match).

Step 2: Jab straight ahead while slightly lunging forward. Pull back without dropping the arms. Never lock the elbows but extend your arm with each jab.

Step 3: To cross, you pivot the rigth back leg to the left, extending the arm and back. For the most benefit, be sure to turn your body. Move with the hips. This is where your core really becomes engaged. Jump to switch sides.

Do 25 reps and you're on your way to flat and sexy core and a toned upper body!


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Leave a comment on FemFitness Facebook page or,
Email me at dapalmer2589@gmail.com.

Bite of The Week

Ok, so if you’re like me and you dread the big “C” – cancer – I’m quite sure decreasing your likelihood of developing any of its many forms.  Yes, we can’t deny hereditary factors but we also know that there are many other external factors that contribute to our developing these diseases. My favourite is, of course, what I eat. We’ve heard it time and time again. Studies prove it. You really are what you eat.

One vegetable provides not only powerful phytonutrients that neutralize carcinogens, but also stimulates detoxifying enzymes that help the body rid itself of cancer-causing and other harmful toxins.

Can you guess the vegetable?

The Award Goes To:

Yes, broccoli is one of the richest food sources of the flavonoid kaempferol, which has shown protective benefits against ovarian cancer.

Something I didn’t know: It contains a compound called Indole-3-carbinol.

Why is Indole-3-carbinol Important?

ü  reduces the risk of breast and cervical cancers

ü  Helps suppress the spread of existing cancer.

And just when you think things can’t get any better, broccoli does it again!

It’s a superior source of folate.

Why Is Folate Important?

ü  Necessary for making and protecting DNA, producing new blood, forming new cells, and synthesizing protein.

ü   Tied to a decreased risk of some cancers in adults

Folate is one of the most important nutrients for pregnant women.

Why?

ü  Supports proper development of the fetal nervous system and protects against neural tube (birth) defects.

ü  Research shows that women are twice as likely as men to experience depression, and numerous studies have linked folate deficiency with depression.

Wait, One More (Benefit):

ü  Broccoli helps reduce bloating and water retention associated with premenstrual syndrome

PRODUCT REVIEW

Organix Hydrating Macadamia Oil Conditioner

 

 

What It is:

Sulphate-free moisturizing conditioner for all hair types.

 

What It Does:

It hydrates and smoothes dry hair as well as softens and mends split ends, while making hair shine.

 

Key Ingredients:

Macadamia Oil:          

This is a natural moisturizer and emollient – meaning it attracts and traps moisture from the

air. It also contains proteins and vitamin E which we all know is essential for healthy hair.

Bamboo & Sugar Cane Extracts:        

One compound found in bamboo extract is silica. Silica works along with sulfur to give hair a

healthy and youthful appearance. Both bamboo and sugar cane extracts are said to soften

and mend split ends.

How It Smells/Feels/Looks:         

This product has a lovely fruity smell. Its not overpowering but strong enough to leave your

hair smelling great for a few days. The product consistency isn’t thick but not too runny. My

one issue with the product is, ‘Why isn’t there more of this?!’ I love this product and I

absolutely that Organix carried this in a larger bottle. But, I guess when its that good, you

don’t need a whole lot.

Why I Like It:             

Unlike some conditioners I’ve used, this conditioner really coated my hair and my hair felt so

soft almost immediately.  Of course,  its especially important for anyone transitioning or

going natural to choose product that put back moisture as well as retain moisture.

Remember, the tighter your curl pattern, the drier the hair is. I’ve used conditioners where

not matter how much I applied, my hair felt heavy and weighed down but not soft.

I wouldn’t say it gave my GREAT slip but I did believe it was moisturizing my hair and there

was enough slippage to ensure I didn’t yank out all my hair while detangling.  My hair was

much easier to comb out as compared to when I used Motions CPR Leave-In Conditioner

(I’m never, ever buying that product again! I will explain in another product review). I left it in

my hair while I showered so it was in for around 10 minutes before I rinsed.  Even then my

hair felt soft and moisturized and it prepared my hair for my leave-in. So the short of it all,

yes, I like this product for my hair. I would definitely buy it again and I recommend it for all

types but especially chicas transitioning or natural.

Summer Hot Pedi Colours!

Colour is always in for the summer,  so why not experiment with colour with these sexy, vibrant and sweet colours!

Yellow toenails may sound scary but when done right it can be very flattering. Its all about picking the right yellow. For cocoa skin, try a bold opaque shade like China Glaze Happy Go Lucky in the Up & Away Collection.

Aqua

Dark blues like navy and indigo are so yesterday! Instead , try a pretty aqua colour which can be just as versatile as any other pastel colour. A lighter aqua such a China Glaze Aqua Baby looks great on cocoa skin!

Pink

Floral is so in this season so why not complement the trend with a great pick nail colour? Try Opi Nail Laquer in Pink Friday or Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color in Bubblegum Pink. 

Orangey-Red

Though red colours are traditional for the dramatic fall/winter season, this red can be worn for summer due to its orange tones. This is the perfect red go-to shade for this season. China Glaze’s Make Some noise goes perfect with cocoa-licious skin!

Electric Purple

When it comes to colour, your toes are the best place to go wild no matter what your age. Loud purples are so fun to wear during the summer. For cocoa skin, brighter neon shades work best such as China Glaze Under the Boardwalk.

Bronze

Nothing says summer like a gorgeous bronze colour. It’s the best new metallic colour. Bronzy browns go best with deep skin tones, just be sure to use a basecoat to avoid the colour appearing flat.

Orange

This colour can be tough to wear but good news for us, cocoa skin chicas. These pastel orange hues look amazing on our skin tone. Try China Glaze Nail Laquer with Hardener in Orange You Hot for the perfect shade!

Barbie Pink

This pink has both cool and warm undertones which make it great for all skin types. Try China Glaze Nail Laquer with Hardener in Dance Baby from the Electropop Collection.

The Case of the Morning workout

Hey everyone! It’s been a while since I posted anything. I hope you all are staying active and trying as best as possible to eat healthy. It’s hard I know but totally worth it.

 So I’ve been thinking about changing up my workout routine for the past two weeks and sorry to say, it’s been more of a miss than hit. Since my evenings have become increasingly busy, often times I’ve had to forego my workouts because I get home so late. By that time, all I want to do is take a shower and head to bed.  So I’ve been thinking of switching these workout sessions to the mornings. Did I say it was easier said than done? There were a few mornings when I got up early and got my sweat session on…and then there were the mornings when I felt I need the extra sleep. What I’ve realized though is that if you really want to stick to your commitment to a.m. workouts, preparation is key. I hate getting up before the sun does so to ensure that I don’t get up too early, I make sure I have all my stuff prepared and packed the night before. I usually take my breakfast and lunch to work so I prep them the night before, have my outfit ironed and my bag packed. If I leave these for the morning, it’ll take me about half an hour, the time I could have used for workout sessions.

One of my other very important issues with morning workouts was the hair – those of you with relaxed hair, you know what I’m talking about. Morning exercise is always a recipe for bad hair day or being late for work. That’s why I always thought it more convenient to work out in the evenings. But I think I’ve found a solution for me. My roots going down are usually the sections that get wet during my workouts but since I’ve been growing my hair out (going natural, will tell you more about that in another post) I’ve noticed that my roots only get wet and it dries a whole lot faster. Now, I’ve been able to style my hair with minimal trouble and I didn’t sacrifice my sessions.

Here are the some pro for morning and evening work out sessions:

• · Late Afternoon is Best for Exercise - Research shows that the best time to exercise is when our body temperature is at its highest, which, for most people is 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Your body temperature is at its lowest just before waking.

• ·  Strength is Greater in the Afternoon - Dr. Hill of University of Noth Texas reported that strength output is 5% higher at around mid-day; anaerobic performance, such as sprinting, improves by 5% in the late afternoon.
• 
  
• ·   Endurance is Greater in the Afternoon - Aerobic capacity (endurance) is approximately 4 percent higher in the afternoon.
• 
  
• ·   Injuries Are Less Likely in the Afternoon - Afternoon exercise is the best if you want to avoid injuries for many reasons. We are most alert; our body temperature is the highest so our muscles are warm and flexible; and our muscle strength is at its greatest. These three factors make it less likely that we will get injured.
• 
  
• · Morning Exercisers Are More Consistent - Even though afternoon exercise might be optimal from a physiological standpoint, research also shows that morning exercisers are more likely to stick to it that late-day athletes.
• 
  
• · Evening Exercise and Sleep - Most research supports the idea that exercise can improve sleep quality. But does exercising too late in the evening keep you up? Studies have shown improvements in sleep from both morning and afternoon exercise, so it's not yet clear if evening exercise keeps you up. One study even showed that vigorous exercise half an hour before bedtime did not affect sleep.

Regardless whatever time you choose to execise, it should be based upon your personal goals, schedule and lifestyle. Try to pick a time that you are able to stick with consistently and make part of your daily or weekly schedule. And don’t forget: always warm up before any workout.

So what about you guys? What time of the day do you find most convenient for your workouts? If you have any tips to help motivate me and others to get out of the sack in the mornings, feel free to leave a comment below.

Take care, xoxo!

The Glow Diet: Part IV (Finale)

The Glow Diet: Part IV (Finale)

Vitamin E

This antioxidant, also known by its scientific name tocopherol, is another fundamental component for the war against aging skin. Vitamin E helps prevent damage caused by UV rays. According to a study in the journal Free Radical Biology & Medicine, it does this by reducing the production of an enzyme, collagenase, which breaks down collagen, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle. Even more reason to beware of the sun, exposure can actually deplete vitamin E from the skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. Be sure to look for skin-care products that contain this vital antioxidant.


Vitamin E is especially sensitive to air so its important that oils rich in this nutrient be kept in tightly capped containers. It is also highly dependent of vitamin C to keep it in its active form. Best sources of vitamin E include salmon, extra lean meat, plant foods like spinach, mustard greens, sunflower seeds, almonds and oils such as canola, olive, sunflower, safflower and cottonseed.

Selenium

This micromineral works with other antioxidants to prevent effects of ultraviolet light, thereby your risk for sunburn. In fact, low blood levels of selenium also increase your risk for skin cancer.


Best sources of selenium include tuna, wheat germ, sesame seeds and whole grains.

Zinc

Another micromineral, zinc helps to maintain collagen and elastin fibres that give skin its firmness, helping to prevent sagging and wrinkles. Not only that but it also links together amino acids that are needed for the formation of collagen - essential in wound healing.


Best sources of zinc include red meats(especially organ meats), seafood, poultry, pork and dairy products.