Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 2 i EcoBalance Lifestyle

Dear Readers A lot has happened since our first issue. Lockdown became the new norm and it’s during this time my beautiful daughter, my only child sadly committed suicide, which has caused an unbelievable pain, trying to make sense of it and dealing with the grief hence the delay in producing this issue. The world has changed thanks to coronavirus with so much loss, be it through loss of lives, retrenchments or just uncertainty. Most of us are feeling drained and issues have increased. There is a general feeling of anger and frustration. The past 6 months have been a blur. However, despite living in lockdown, life has carried on - and we cover some of the issues which have arisen during this time. September 10th marked World Suicide Prevention…

HempLove Essential Duo This Hemp Hand Sanitiser consists of 85% food grade ethanol and hemp terpenes to help kill germs and bacteria, whilst keeping the hands feeling moisturised. The Hemp Face Mask is made from a comfortable hemp knit material, providing a soft and non-irritable feel to the skin. Available at www.hemplove.co.za Oil Science CBD Rescue Gel - 30ml Jar CBD Rescue Gel contains a blend of pure broad-spectrum CBD extract and baobab gel. Ingredients: 100% natural. THC-free. GMP - certified. Lab-tested. Vegan-friendly. Fully legal in South Africa. Available at www.oilscience.co.za Oil Science 50mg Pet CBD Oil Drops 50ml Tincture A blend of 50mg pure broad-spectrum CBD extract, mixed with MCT carrier oil. Specially formulated for smaller sized pets. This low dosage oil supports small and medium-sized pets with anxiety, sleep issues and…

There is a growing trend and awareness regarding eco-conscious and sustainable living, and this includes the skin and beauty care industry. But how does one transition to a eco-friendlier skin and beauty routine - without breaking the bank and breaking out? Ryno Mulder is well known make-up artist and was a beauty editor for more than 20 years. He shares his journey to veganism with us as well as his insight into the skin, beauty and personal care industry. EBL: You are vegan. When and how did you become vegan? RM: I had been vegetarian since the age of 21 but never thought I’d be capable of going vegan. Back then, veganism seemed really tough to me and frankly, like it would spoil the fun in eating. Late 2016, I…

Marula Sweet Orange Cleansing Oil cleanser with organic sweet orange essential oil. Natural sweet almond oil has been included for its natural exfoliating and nourishing benefits. The oil safely removes your make up, dirt and pollution from the skin whilst leaving your skin silky soft and fragrantly fresh. Available at www.balancecapetown.com SKNLOGIC Protect SPF 40 is a full spectrum sun protection cream that provides a certified high broad-spectrum UVA I UVB protection and anti-ageing benefits. It goes beyond UVA and UVB protection to help defend against blue light (digital pollution), environmental pollution and infrared light from the sun. It repairs DNA damage caused by free radicals while mitigating the damage from environmental and digital exposure. Does not contain Parabens, Sulphates, Synthetic Fragrance and Synthetic Colourants, Lanolin derivatives, Mineral Oil or…

Gentle effective cleansing is recommended. There is no need to over cleanse with harsh cleansers or soap bars as these can damage the skin and cause reactions for sensitive, dry or mature skin. Choosing the right product is important. There are a variety of cleansing options available including facial soap bars, gel cleansers, foaming cleansers, oils, balms or micellar waters. When choosing a cleanser that is best for you and the environment, you will need to consider the following - where the ingredients are sourced, how and where it is manufactured and to what extent packaging either uses recycled materials or can be recycled. It may be difficult to satisfy every aspect of sustainability when it comes to choosing an eco-friendly cleanser, however familiarising yourself with ingredient names, researching claims…

No need to give up meat completely. Firstly, we’re not telling our men to totally steer clear of steaks, chops or boerie rolls but, what we are telling them is that if they would like to live longer (yes!), lower their cholesterol and blood pressure or need to shed a kilo or two, eating less meat and more veggies (specifically mushrooms) is exactly what the doctor would order and the bonus is that meaty mushrooms are delicious too. Benefits of veg diets bigger for men than women. According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine*, "the benefits of vegetarian diets are much greater for men than women. Piling up on veggies can help men prevent heart disease, some kinds of cancer, type 2 diabetes and obesity"; plant-based diets also…

Millions of single use gloves and masks are being thrown away daily and already just months after the first COVID-19 case was reported waterlogged masks, gloves, hand sanitiser bottles and other coronavirus waste are being found in our waterways, on our sea beds and washed up on our beaches, adding to the existing mounds of plastic pollution. Most single use masks are made from polypropylene, which is plastic-based and liquidresistant, which means they have a long after life after they are discarded. Aside from the environmental impact, the increased number of masks and other PPE equipment, present a risk to essential services workers such as cleaners, garbage collectors and other people who spend time in public spaces. These vulnerable groups are even more susceptible to the virus as it is…

Serves 6 as a starter or light lunch INGREDIENTS 6 Large brown mushrooms1 00g Bread crumbs1 00g Parsley, chopped300g Parma ham or cooked bacon, chopped1 00g Parmesan, grated1 0g Fresh rosemary, chopped2g Fresh sage, chopped80ml MilkSalt and pepper for flavour WHATTODO 1. Wipe mushrooms clean, trim stalks and place on a baking tray skin side down. 2. Combine all ingredients and divide filling between mushrooms pressing onto the individual mushrooms. 3. Bake at 180°C for between 25 to 30 min until the mushrooms are cooked but still firm - be careful not to overcook them! TIP PURCHASING MUSHROOMS 1. When purchasing mushrooms ensure that they have a firm texture and a dry surface. 2. Avoid withered or damp mushrooms. 3. Fresh mushrooms need careful handling, if treated roughly, they can…

Serves 4. Ready in 15 minutes WHAT YOU NEED 250g Mushrooms, chopped100g Baby spinach100g Glass noodles (very thin angel hair noodles)1 Small clove garlic, minced1 tsp Grated fresh ginger1 tbsp Sesame oil1-2 tbsp Tamari or soy sauce To serve 2 Large gem lettuces (±8 leaves) Store-bought kimchi (spicy Korean pickled vegetables)2 tbsp Roasted and chopped salted peanuts, or2 tbsp Toasted sesame seedsSriracha or sweet chilli sauce WHAT TO DO 1. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and add the mushrooms. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden. Add the garlic, ginger and soy sauce and cook for another minute, then remove from the heat, stir in the spinach and set aside. 2. Meanwhile, soak the noodles in a bowl of just boiled water for…

However, you would have heard about the very strange global disappearance of honeybees. But it is not just honeybees that have been affected - other species are also declining. So, what is it that’s bugging our bees? It is believed that habitat loss due to urbanisation, which depletes their foraging sites and affects their dietary needs is partly to blame. Added to that this, is new strains of viruses and parasites which are attacking hives, along with heavy use of toxic sprays in the garden, causing distress to the bee’s health and immune systems. The result is that a very useful creature is under major stress, with "colony collapse" happening all over the country. In the process of trying to rid ourselves of all the bad bugs, we are killing…

Lulubee Resuable Food Wraps are a natural food storage alternative to plastic wrap. Can be used to wrap cucumber, cheese, fruit, vegetables or cover a dish. Washable, reusable and mindfully made Lulubees cotton is naturally hand-dyed using seasonally sourced plant dyes, embracing natures colour palette. Every wrap is unique. The packaging is purposeful by giving life beyond life and embraces zero waste principles. Reuse the packaging as storage for your Lulubee Wraps. Available from www.lulubee.co.za The Refillery stocks deliciously silky smooth locally farmed honey. You can take your own jar which you can fill up with honey or you can buy one at their stores in Cedar Square or Morningside Shopping Centre or order online www.therefillery.co.za HONEY ON TOP Spaza Store is a homeware brand based in Cape Town, they design functional everyday…

Recipe suggestions: Spritz fresh lemon juice over fried mushrooms for brightness, use in Thai mushroom-noodle dishes for a deliciously sour note or try making Mushroom Ceviche Hadeco’s GrowHomeBucket® is perfect if you want to grow your own vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, chilli peppers, herbs, salad, carrots and other roots. GrowHomeBucket® is a new product that is made to make home growing easy and fun. It is designed for growing both outside and inside. It comes with a tray for handling water and a top so you can choose to boost the seeds, if necessary. It also comes with a handle which makes it easy to move around. Available at www.hadeco.co.za Mantis Fabric Pots come in different sizes and shapes, and can be made in custom sizes. It is no doubt that Mantis Fabric…

Despite mental health being spoken about more openly, thanks to many famous, prominent or successful people highlighting their own mental health battles, according to the South African Stress and Health (SASH) study, the prevalence of depression in South Africa remains close to 10%, yet only 8% of these individuals end up seeking help from a professional. The other 2% either struggle through life carrying this burden with them or tum to drugs and alcohol as a means of coping or end up taking their own life. Depression is far more common than one realises. The World Health Organisation (WHO) puts it as the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide and even before the coronavirus pandemic emerged, the organisation predicted it would become the second most common cause of disability in…

Yes, she loves pink and adores dressing up like a princess, but this is where the similarity ends. She has always been fascinated by skateboards, bicycles, roller skates, or anything else that could pose some sort of imminent threat to her wellbeing. To encounter her tearing down the driveway on her skateboard dressed as a fairy princess, or at the local skate park in a glittery tutu, has become the norm. These and many other antics have earned her the nickname "The Velociraptor." Auralia’s other passion is producing videos with "Daddy Rap tor" for her You Tube Channel. These videos started as DIY crafting tutorials on how to make things like slime, play-dough, and puffy paint. Auralia has always embraced the idea of being able to teach other children how…

Save Electricity Geyser Every geyser should be on a timer so that it only runs at specific times when you need hot water. Lights LED lights are most energy efficient option. An LED bulb provides 15 000 to 3 0 000 hours of light while an incandescent bulb only offers up to 2 000 hours of light. An incandescent bulb uses approximately 42W of electricity to emit the same level of illumination as a 6W LED. Gas Gas geysers save electricity and provide instantaneous hot water. Survive Load Shedding Geyser Solar geysers will save you money in the long run and give you hot water most days. Lights Solar powered lights such as Eurolux Lutec Range use individual solar panels to recharge batteries, which provides power for the light or…

Cannabis, marijuana, hemp or dagga - same plant, different name? Call it what you will, the humble Cannabis sativa/indica has always been surrounded by controversy. More than most plant species, the cannabis plant can be used for medicinal, recreational and cosmetic purposes. It can also be processed to make textiles and other useful materials that are popular amongst the eco-conscious community due to its ability to biodegrade. Serious advocacy for the legalisation of marijuana started in South Africa in the early 2000s. In February of 2017, largely thanks to the efforts of Dr. Mario Oriani-Ambrosini, the possibility of marijuana for medical and industrial use started being spoken about at high levels. This was shortly followed by the landmark ruling of the Constitutional Court which saw the personal and private consumption…

KushKush’s sensual CBD Intimacy Oil produced by Kiskanu, which promotes healthy relationships by enhancing pleasure and physical comfort. Comprised of calendula, cold-pressed sunflower, coconut and jojoba oils - which are blended to improve lubrication - it also features sun-grown hemp CBD, which reduces inflammation, relaxes muscle spasms, increases blood flow and enhances sensation. This makes for an easier and more enjoyable exploration with your partner. KushKush’s Grace (Burn) Pipe is 100% Porcelain pipe with purpose. An everyday essential tool, is a simple and modish pipe that doubles as an incense holder. Scoop your ground flower into the pipe receptacle and light when ready. KushKush’s LIV (Grind) is a 100% Solid Brass Grinder. Not only a brilliant grinder, but also a beautiful objet d’art to add to your collection. You place…

1 Research the brand as well as the company it belongs to. The big name beauty brands are usually owned by an umbrella company and you may be buying from ethical brand X but the umbrella company owns sister brands Y and Z that do test on animals so your money still enables a company that chooses profit over ethics. 2 Check the product label for ingredients that are animal derived or may be harmful to your health or the environment. 3 Check the product packaging for the mark of certification for organisations like Leaping Bunny that guarantee that a product is vegan. Or recognised certification that the product is mostly organic or made up of ethically sourced ingredients. 4 One stop wellness emporiums like Wellness Warehouse and Faithful to…

Hand washing and sanitising has gone from being a basic hygiene habit to a life saving part of our daily lives, however the constant exposure to water and chemicals can leave hands badly dehydrated. Shanday Andrews-Masson du Monceau of Out Of Earth tells us how to create a divine, nourishing lavender and ylang ylang hand and face oil that is as good for the soul as it is for the hands. Soap, water and hand sanitisers eliminate germs and dirt, but they also strip the natural, protective oils and acid mantle in your skin. This increases the risk of dry skin and even dermatitis. Over time, the alcohol in hand sanitisers disrupts the natural barrier function and reduces the skin’s ability to protect itself. Not only does this cause discomfort…

SKNLogic Gentle Cleanse Cream. Gentle cleanse cream is a gentle, pH balanced, soap-free, creamy cleanser that cleanses without disrupting the skins moisture barrier. Hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling conditioned and nourished. Contains a selection of natural ingredients, including fig extract which has moisturising properties similar to the skins own. It is also rich in vitamin A and beta carotene with powerful enzymatic exfoliation action. Beaucience Botanicals - Cleansing Gel.This luxurious, pH balanced soap-free cleanser has been formulated to be mild and gentle on the skin. It excludes ethoxylated surfactants and does not strip the skins natural oils. It contains added extracts such as aloe vera, peach, organic green tea, proteasyl and witch hazel. Leaves your skin feeling calm, moisturised and fresh. A unique blend of essential oils with coconut surfactants provides…

The Cape Floral Kingdom is home to Fynbos, including SA’s national flower, the Protea. But growing alongside the Protea is another national treasure: a fynbos plant called Buchu, whose medicinal properties have formed part of the fabric of South Africa for centuries. Buchu should hold a special place in the heart of all South Africans explains Buchulife producer, Cape Kingdom Nutraceuticals’ managing director Karin McCann: 1. Homegrown Buchu is endemic to the Western Cape, growing nowhere else in the world. For hundreds of years Buchu has helped to effectively manage a range of ailments, including common colds, gut-related ailments, bladder infections, skin condition, joint pain and hypertension. This knowledge was first discovered by the indigenous San and Khoi people centuries ago. They considered the herb to be a cure for all…

Reusable cloth masks are a better solution for the environment. There are many options available and can be made at home quite easily. Cloth masks should, however, be washed properly and frequently and left to hang and air dry. Most surgical type face masks are disposable and are essentially designed for one-time use only. Ideally, face masks should only be used once if they are soiled, or the inner lining gets moist. If you want to reuse the mask, it should be kept dry so that it can last longer. If it is dry and the layers and shape are intact, let it dry in fresh air and sunlight or you can put it in a zip lock pouch with a dessicated gel. The gel absorbs moisture and keeps the…

Makes 2 large flatbreads INGREDIENTS FLATBREAD 200g Self-raising flour 200g Full fat Greek yoghurt TOPPING 500g Portabellini mushrooms150g Bocconcini mozzarella1 Large white onion, dicedFresh thyme sprigsOlive oil (for frying)Salt and pepperSundried tomatoesFresh baby herbs and leaves FOR THE PESTO 1 Clove of garlic1 tsp Sea salt40g Fresh basil leaves40g Fresh rocket30g Parmesan cheese, grated80ml Extra virgin olive oilSqueeze of fresh lemon juice METHOD FLATBREAD 1. In a bowl, mix together pinch of salt, yoghurt and flour until it forms a dough. 2. Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Knead for a few minutes. Cut into 2 or 4 pieces depending on your desired size. Cover with a cloth and allow to rise for 30 minutes. 3. Roll out each section of dough with plenty of flour this prevents the dough…

PIZZA BASE RECIPE Makes 2 pizza bases 30 cm WHAT YOU NEED 500g Self-raising flour400g Raw pumpkin1 tsp Salt3 tbsp Canola oil⅓ cup Warm water METHOD 1. Boil the pumpkin for 15 minutes until it is well cooked and smooth. 2. Preheat the oven to 250° for 20 minutes. This will aid in baking the dough base faster. 3. Blend the pumpkin until smooth. 4. In a bowl pour the flour and oil. Using a wooden stick, mix the flour and pumpkin. Add some warm water and make a dough. Add more flour to make the dough less sticky. 5. Knead the dough for 2 minutes. Half the dough into two portions. Use a rolling pin to shape the dough. 6. Bake the dough for 10-15 minutes each. 7. You…

Have you ever considered how pure your honey is? What is adulteration in honey? It is the action of making something poorer in quality by the addition of another substance. How would you know if you have bought fake or adulterated honey? Try these simple tests: 1 Water test Take a teaspoon of honey and place it into a glass full of water. Fake or adulterated honey will dissolve in the water while pure honey which has a more dense texture will settle at the bottom of the glass as lumps. 2 Thumb test Place a small amount of honey on your thumb, check if it spills or spreads around like any other liquid. If it does, it may not be pure. Pure honey is thick while impure honey will…

Whether you have acres of land or a small balcony in the city, container gardens can be a striking and sensible way to liven up your outdoor spaces and may be your best bet in a courtyard that is paved or concreted. The beauty of container gardening is the versatility - you can do almost anything with a pot. You can introduce much more plant variety to your area than in-ground options allow and replanting to give them a new look is so easy. Plus pots placed at waste level on a step or table saves your back and knees as it is easy to reach. If you’re really strapped for space, a small herb garden is a great start. This will mean you can keep fresh herbs conveniently nearby…

Gebco offers a wide range of potting soils including 420Mix. You can use the normal potting medium for container planting or you can use the 420 mix. The 420 Mix is amazing for flowering plants like fruits, veg, herbs etc Gebco’s 420 Mix is an enhanced premium potting mix. It is a premium potting soil mix made of a special blend of ingredients, hand-selected specifically for the needs of professional flower growers and to address the specific requirements of organic growers. 420 Mix is contained of earthworm castings, vermiculite and perlite which is optimally balanced for ideal pH and moisture retention while being well-draining. Root growth is enhanced by this mix to support demanding floral crops. A soil with excellent air-filled pore spaces, ideal for those special plants that need…

1 Depression tends to present differently in different age groups: ■ Children more commonly present with pain, anxiety, hyperactivity, irritability and diminished pleasure in play. ■ Adolescents can be irritable, have outbursts of anger, loss of energy and experience sleep difficulties. ■ Elderly individuals often display physical and cognitive symptoms such as problems with concentration and memory, social isolation and poor self-care. 2 Depressive disorders are more likely to occur in people who: ■ Are socially isolated. ■ Have no close interpersonal relationships. ■ Have uncertain employment. ■ Are divorced or separated. ■ Have experienced trauma or loss. ■ Are abusing substances, especially alcohol. Important Emergency Contact Details National Department of Health Whatsapp 060 012 3456 LifeLine has a 24 hour helpline: 0861 322 322 Dr Reddy’s Help Line 0800…

"People must feel that the natural world is important and valuable and an amazement and a pleasure".Sir David Attenborough A landmark of luxury accommodation and service, Tintswalo Safari Lodge is known for its warm hospitality. Guests are accommodated in six luxuriously appointed Explorer Suites, as well as the expansive Baines Presidential Suite, or the 2-bedroom Grant Family Suite. Themed after 19th Century African explorers, each air-conditioned suite boasts a private deck with plunge pool, four-poster King bed, and an opulently finished bathroom. "To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles ".Mary Davies Located on a river bank overlooking the wilderness, it offers a 'safari with soul' and uninterrupted Big 5 game viewing experiences. Private and exclusive, the Manor House at Tintswalo Safari Lodge is the ideal destination for…

One Cape Town-based small business has found an innovative way to generate income during the economic crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Growing Paper, a 100% locally owned company that produces recycled seeded paper (paper embedded with seeds that grow when planted in soil), has been hit particularly hard by the current lockdown measures. With its factory, located in Malmesbury and employing nearly forty members of the local community, shut down during level 5 of the lockdown, Growing Paper’s revenue stream completely dried up. Faced with this harsh reality, the management team used their time in isolation to develop the Sustainable Seasons project. The idea was to create a series of limited edition gift cards, illustrated by talented artist Anja Stoeckigt of Paper Tales www.papertales.co.za, that contain positive messages to…

WHAT YOU WILL NEED A packet of tomato seeds or you can use seeds from an actual tomato (wash them first). Empty egg shellsPotting soilWaterEgg box METHOD 1. Rinse out the egg shells, fill with potting soil. 2. Make a small hole in the soil and place a single seed, cover and water. 3. Water regularly (dont over water). In no time your seeds will be little seedlings popping through the surface. WHEN TO PLANT Once they have grown to about 10-15cm you can transfer them into the ground or into a container. Simply pop into the soil - after all the eggshell will degrade and its good for the soil. TIPS Use an empty egg box to hold your egg shell casings. Toilet roll inners are ideal to support…

Before you start, make sure you have washed your hands! YOU WILL NEED 1 Cup sugar250g Butter3-4 Over ripe bananas (mashed)2 Eggs2 Cups self-rasing flour1 tsp Bicarbonate sodaPinch salt METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 180°C.2. Cream butter and sugar.3. Add mashed bananas and beat well.4. Add flour, mix well.5. Add salt, dissolve bicarbonate soda in water, mix well into batter.6. Pour batter into a greased loaf tin.7. Bake for 1 hour.8. Allow to cool down.9. Slice and serve with butter.…

Most waste, whether it be domestic, industrial, or agricultural, ends up in some kind of landfill, however, there are different types of landfills for domestic/general waste and hazardous waste due to the levels of risk associated with the material being disposed. According to Dr Johan Schoonraad, Group Technical Specialist at EnviroServ Waste Management, South Africa’s largest waste management company, a landfill is an engineered facility designed to receive waste and dispose of it in such a way that it causes minimal environmental impact. A typical landfill construction consists of a series of liner systems to prevent any contact of waste disposed with groundwater. In addition to other infrastructure including storm water management dams, security features, weighbridges, offices and workshops, properly designed and engineered landfills will have leachate management and treatment,…

Greener Gas A natural by-product of decomposition of biodegradable waste is methane gas, a flammable greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. At many landfills this methane simply escapes into the environment. Some landfills now have flaring (combustion) systems which convert methane to CO2• Every ton of methane converted to CO2 supposedly has 21 times less impact on the environment thus helping to reduce global warming. If the methane is used, for example for electricity generation, there are clearly additional benefits. Even the simple thermal destruction of the methane allows for the generation and trading of carbon credits. What is a carbon credit? The ultimate goal of carbon credits is to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases such as methane or carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. A carbon credit is…

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is the second most common active ingredient of cannabis (marijuana). While CBD is an essential component of medical marijuana, it is derived directly from the hemp plant. It may be supplied as CBD oil containing only CBD as the active ingredient (not including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or terpenes), a full-plant CBD-dominant hemp extract oil, capsules, dried cannabis, or as a prescription liquid solution. CBD does not have the same psychoactivity as THC - in other words it does not cause a 'high'. What are the benefits of CBD Oils etc? The following are health benefits of CBD oil, which are backed by some scientific evidence: ■ Can Relieve Pain Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain and inflammation associated with diseases such as…

HempLove is a sustainable clothing and cruelty free skincare company. It was founded by friends Lore Botha and Lara Blevi and is very much a product of a unique sisterhood which is based on honesty, transparency and a shared passion for nature and the environment. They remain as committed to these three guiding principles today as they were when they first started. The pair grew up travelling through Africa and therefore have a desire to make a difference to the continent. Furthermore, as a company started by females, HempLove is passionate about promoting and improving the skills sets of women in Africa and as well as bringing sustainable fashion to international platforms where it can be recognised. "We are a part of the sustainable movement in Africa and we aim…

Catrice HD Liquid Coverage Foundation offers a high but natural-looking coverage, while ---.. feeling extremely light-weight just like a second skin. Whilst providing a smooth and even complexion, the ultra-liquid texture is extremely high performing and long lasting. It covers imperfections for 24 hours and mattifies the skin. The extremely high definition finish is sure to make the skin beautifully even and camera ready. *Endorsed by PETA. Catrice Clean ID Mineral Swirl Highlighter is a baked mineral powder that gives a sparkling appearance. The soft touch formula’s ingredients are 96% natural and vegan. Colours available - sunny gold bronze or delicate rose. *Endorsed by PETA. Catrice is available at Dis-Chem, Takealot, Zando, Superbalist, and Home of Cosmetics. essence Lash Princess Sculpted Volume Mascara transforms your lashes with an irresistible false-lash…

You will need: A bottle, preferably a dropper bottle and a small bowl or jugfor mzxzng. Ingredients ■ 45ml flaxseed oil ■ 3ml grapeseed oil ■ 1ml vitamin E oil or part contents of 1 soft-gel capsule - this reduces rancidity of the oil and thus extends the shelf life and is also so good for your skin elasticity (Optional). ■ 1ml or less essential oil blend (5 drops lavender essential oil, 5 drops geranium essential oil and 10 drops ylang ylang essential oil= 20 drops & measures 1ml) Method ■ Add all the ingredients together in a small jug or bowl, stir and pour over into a dropper bottle. ■ If using as a facial oil, it is best to use at night as make-up will slide off your…

There’s also the upside that cooking makes you happy. A recent study published in the International Journal of Humanities and Social Science found that "the act of cooking improves a person’s well-being and is associated with life satisfaction." So aprons on and check what’s in the fridge. Or start making a shopping list that includes fresh mushrooms - whichever kind you like and can find on supermarket shelves. Fresh mushrooms, with their meaty texture and unmistakable umani flavour, simply make meals more satisfying, and their versatility allows your inner chef free reign at least three times a day! Fresh mushrooms are a hero food for health and especially the immune system. "Eating more mushrooms is associated with greater consumption of vegetables in general, contributing to an overall more nutritious diet,"…

SOiL Organic Aromatherapy offers a variety of certified organic products to offer a natural solution to wellness. SOiL’s premixed blends of 100% pure essential oils make it easy to target a desired outcome, such as Immunity or DeStress. Perfect for use within diffusers, simply add 6-12 drops. Available at www.soil.co.za Duo Calm is a natural solution to insomnia that promotes falling asleep faster, improves sleep quality, alleviates tension and supports a calm and relaxed state. Duo Calm’s carefully balanced formula promotes healthy sleep by regulating your circadian (day/night) rhythm. With properties that de-stress the body and shorten sleep onset. You can now wake up each day feeling fresh and ready to take on whatever comes your way. Ingredients include valerian, chamomile, magnesium glyciante and vitamin B6. Available online https://wwwfusionlabsonline.com or…

Serves 2. Ready in 45 minutes WHAT YOU NEED ¼ Cup quinoa¼ Cup short-grain brown rice2 Handfuls baby spinach1 Avocado, sliced1 Orange sweet potato, sliced into rounds Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste WHAT TO DO 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. 2. Season the sweet potato with salt, pepper and a Cajun spice mix or your own spice mix. Add a drizzle of olive oil and mix to ensure the sweet potato rounds are well coated. Place on a baking tray and roast until golden and tender, turning halfway. 3. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa and rice together in a pot of salted boiling water until tender, drain, mix in the baby spinach and allow to wilt, then set aside. 5. To assemble, layer everything into wide,…

BUCHUL, LEMONGRASS AND Basil ADD 4-6 Detox Buchu & Ginger teabags to IL of boiling water in a glass jug. Steep for at least 15 minutes until the teabags have imparted all the goodness and flavour to your iced tea. Remove the teabags and add: 2tbsp Honey. Juice of one lemon. A stick of fresh lemongrass (bruise before adding to impart more flavour). A handful of fresh basil leaves. A few slices of fresh cucumber. Add loads of ice to cool your home-made iced tea down fast ahead of serving. BUCHU, CINNAMON AND Citrus ADD 4-6 Detox Buchu & Cinnamon teabags to 1 L of boiling water in a glass jug. Steep for at least 15 minutes until the teabags have imparted all the goodness and flavour to your iced…

"The keeping of bees is like the direction of sunbeams."Henry David Thoreau Why The Fuss? We have all heard about the rather euphemistically put 'plight of the bees', but actually the impact is far greater than just one small insect - the future of bees will affect the entire planet. Why? It’s really simple, if bees go, we go. This may sound like an exaggeration, but it is not and here’s why. Bees are the most important pollinators on the planet. Bees pollinate 80% of the world’s plants including 90 different food crops. In South Africa they are the main pollinators of many of our food crops upon which we and other creatures are dependant. Therefore, if the bee population dies out, not only will direct access to many crop…

Lulubee Botanique Massage Bar embodies natural wellbeing with an artistic expression. Indulge with Botanique Massage Bar, enriched with botanical oils, chosen for their blood circulation abilities. Beeswax nourishing properties, relieves dry skin. Gently massage skin with bar. Moisturising whilst easing muscle tension. Available www.lulubee.co.za Burt’s Bee® Almond & Milk Hand Cream. This silky cream moisturises dry hands especially now with over use of sanitisers. The sweet almond oil and vitamin E seals and conditions the skin with beeswax. The hand cream has an almond scent and is 99. 9% natural. We love the packaging as it is packaged in a recycled glass jar. Available at Takealot & Dischem Burt’s Bees® Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream. Pamper yourself with restoring nail care. Made to nourish dry, brittle nails as it moisturises and soften cuticles, its…

1 The soil in containers dries out quicker than soil in a garden, especially in smaller pots, so if you can - go big I If you’re placing them in a really hot, sunny area, they’ll lose moisture a lot quicker, so work out where you’re going to place them before filling with soil. They’re much heavier to move when full. 2 One thing you need to remember is that when it comes to vegetables, all vegetables need plenty of sunlight to grow healthily. Only mushrooms - the fun guys of the 'salad and soup world', prefer to party it up in the dark. It is therefore best to place vegetable containers in a sunny spot preferably north-facing so that they get lots morning sun and afternoon shade. 3 Containers must have drainage…

As the world faces the biggest challenge of modern times in the form of the coronavirus, the mental health, wellness and resilience of each of us is being put to the test. Most of us, despite the concern and challenges that this pandemic has brought, will cope however there are many for whom this crisis will become a personal battle of survival - not physical survival but mental survival. Loss of life, income and a world that is not what it was six months ago will have an adverse affect on many peoples lives. The World Health Organisation has already warned that they expect a dramatic increase in anxiety, depression and suicide as a result of COVID-19. In recognition of mental health awareness and as a way of highlighting the…

Financial distress is often a major driver for stress, anxiety and depression. Financial advisers and debt counsellors advise that it is best to seek help as early as possible from an expert rather than either ignoring the situation or trying to deal with it yourself. Debt counsellors are trained to help assess one’s financial situation, negotiate with banks etc for payment schemes that will provide a positive outcome for all. Russel Dickerson, National Chairman of DCASA (Debt Counselling Association of South Africa), explains that through using the debt counselling process financial institutions are forced to listen, and where there is lack of cooperation, the courts will intervene. The courts are often lenient on people who have not used the situation (in this case loss of income due to COVID-19) to…

Once you have found your design find a fabric to suit your choice. Painting was my inspiration which inspired the look and feel as well as the fahric I chose I chose to go with bright colours to suit my client’s hold and vibrant personality You will need: • Old office chair • Find a design that will suit your fabric (or find a fabric to suit your design) • Fabric of your choice (I have used velvet and upholstery fabric) • Embroidery cotton • Beads of your choice (I have used seed beads) • Staple gun • Screw driver • Scissors • Fa bric paint • Spray paint • Embellishments The chair. Start with your old office chair by removing the seat and the back. (Remember to keep your…

WE LOVE IT! Growing Paper has launched an exciting new range. The Sustainable Project is a selection of beautifully illustrated stationery made on their handmade recycled plantable paper. The paper is infused with a variety of different seeds. Available from www.growingpaper.co.za WE LOVE IT! Growing Paper’s plantable paper desk calendars. These are ideal gifts with a difference. WE LOVE IT! Plasticity creates a stunning range of unique bags from plastic bags. Yes thats right, your everyday trash bags. They are locally made in a little town in the Karoo. The range includes cosmetic bags and pencil cases. Available at www.plasticity.co.za…

Do you have loads of foil pie dishes or aluminium containers and don’t know what to do with them? Don’t want them to land up in landfill? We have a wonderful way to upcycle them into mobiles for your garden or for inside. WHAT YOU WILL NEED Foil pie dish or containerPenSharp nailGutBeadsMosaic tiles - mirror or normalSuper glueScissors TIP Put your foil gut scraps into an ecobrick. Scraps of paper put into your recycling bin. LET’S GET STARTED 1. Cut the base out of the pie dish or container and flatten.2. Draw shapes on paper to create your template. Cut out.3. Take your flat foil piece and template design, start cutting out.4. When this is done take your sharp nail to push holes into the foil creating your a…

When it comes to alternative sources of power for domestic use, there are essentially three choices: generators; inverters and solar. Which you choose will depend on what your motivation, needs and budget are. Generators remain the most cost effective and accessible form of alternative power, whilst inverters and solar systems are more technical and therefore more expensive. Generators are not the most environmentally friendly alternative source of power for those who want a back-up during load shedding, however, using a good quality generator that is commensurate to your essential, personal needs will help minimise the impact on the environment. "Generators really are still the most affordable and practical way for most people to get through load shedding, "says Richard Stevens, Financial Director of Ryobi. "The size of generator required comes…

1. PLANNING AND APPLICATION: The first step to building a landfill starts with an application for a waste management licence, which identifies suitable locations, includes an Environmental Impact Assessment and involves several authorities and stakeholders. This can take anything between 18 months and three years to obtain. In South Africa, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, approves hazardous landfill sites, while provincial authorities approve general waste disposal sites. 2. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION: The next step is to have the design plans for the construction of a landfill cell approved, which can take up to a year. A landfill is not just one big hole, it is built in small sections called cells. The design of the cell lining is dictated by the waste type to be disposed of and…