GEMINI Publisher
Editorial Director
Beauty Editor
Fashion Editor
O n T h e Cov e r Cover Lisa Price Owner of Carol's Daughter
Advertising
Contributors
Makeup Toni Acey Maken It Up Photography Felicia Atwell Atwell Photography Location Carol's Daughter store Lenox Square, Atlanta, GA Gemini Magazine is published monthly by Gemini Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright 2010
Letter From the Editor
Latima Johnson
What is natural beauty? Do you have to be a vegan? Or rock natural hair? Can you rock false lashes and still be considered a natural beauty? I’m sorry ladiesl but I do not know the answers to these questions, but I canl tell you one thing--natural beauty is whatever you want it to be. And it’s been around since your Grandmama was just a child. For years our Grandmothers and Mothers have been passing
Olive oil has magic powers—it really does though. I find myself not only massaging my cuticles with this oil but also using it as a hair moisturizer, make-up remover and lip balm. That right, it is multipurpose oil; which gives us another reason to keep it stocked in the bathroom. Oh, and the kitchen too.
down all natural tips and tricks involving only natural products. Here are my favorites!
Castile soap has 18 uses—My hair LOVES castile soap. And it also happens to keep my bathroom streak-free and clean. I have also used this allnatural soap on my face and clothes.
Apple cider vinegar stinks but works--Have you ever used this stuff as a hair clarifier for removing build-up? It works wonders at helping maintain the pH balance of hair and restoring your hair’s beautiful shine. Did I mention that it stinks but it works?
EcoTools 4 piece cosmetic set, Ulta.com $11
Cosmetic companies are also slowly but surely incorporating more natural products and brands in their line-ups. EcoTools have the best and most affordable brushes on the market. They are also ecofriendly and widely available.
Revolution Organics All-Over Body Body Balm, Upurea.com $28
4 piece Lip Butter set, $35 Lip & Cheek Tint, $15 Lip Gloss, $13 100percentpure.com
100 Percent Pure uses real fruit pigments to color their products. The options to incorporate more natural products in your beauty regimen are out there. And you don’t have to be a die-hard vegan (ahem…like I once was many moons ago) to appreciate them. Stay beautiful! Brittany Thomas, Beauty Editor
Revolution Organics has multi-purpose products that the USDA has certified as organic. Their All-Over-BodyBalm has 22+ uses and it so fabulously luscious that you’ll want to bathe in it.
Tarte Cosmetics swaps nasty chemicals for fruits to infuse in their famous cheek stain and mascaras. Cheek Tint, Tartcosmetics.com $30
We are in crisis mode. You know what we mean. Most of us are ready to shake off those Holiday extras, prepare for warmer weather, and the new fashions of spring and summer. We love our curves, yes, but everybody needs a little redefining. So, you are ready. Gym membership?
Juicy Couture Velour Hoodie & Pant, Bloomingdales.com $178
Check! Hot tall handsome trainer? Check! Fashionably forward (yet comfy) curvy workout wear? Not quite. The workout gear we find may look comfortable, but once we shimmy into the tight (suppose to be breathable) fabric comfort flies out of the window. What's the big deal with some extra snug gear? With our voluptuousness (yes, we just made up a word) comes perspiration which can cause areas of our bodies to be taken over with rashes and soreness. We know, your time is tight (your workout gear may be too), and luckily we have just the thing to help you navigate the world of curvy exercise wear. We decided to hit the streets and have a little girl talk with a few plus size sisters in sweat. From breathable sports bras to supportive undergarments we have you covered...literally.
TOSHA GROVES AGE: 28 HOMETOWN: New York PROFESSION: Receptionist With Tosha drinking a warm cup of green tea in a freezing cold New York, we sat down with her to talk health (and fashion of course). GEMINI: Do you have a ready-made workout plan? TOSHA: Sort of. My focus is exercising for health. I usually take walks GEMINI: What do you look for in your fitness wear? TOSHA: Mostly support... I don't like to have my body jiggling around or too much exposure.. GEMINI: What is your fitness wear style? You know we all have one. TOSHA: YES! Sexy, yet different, mixed with comfort. My personal statement is 'a work in progress'. I’m working on it! But, I’m still cute... sexy not sloppy. Champion Sports Bra, JMS.com $31.99 Gemini has been working hard to make a better publication for you, and we have added something new. Any time you see a design you just can't live without, click on it. Go on...we dare you. Just wait and see what happens!
LuLu Lemon Grey & Black Graphics Light Jacket, LuLuLemon.com $99
IceQueen Skirt, SkirtSports.com $125 Sketchers Shape ups, Zappos.com $100
KAY PEE AGE: A woman never tells HOMETOWN: Florida PROFESSION: Customer Service Associate From chilly New York, to sunny Florida (we get around) curvy women are working hard. We caught up with Kay as she left the gym and dished on her gear and style. GEMINIi: Why do you workout? KAY PEE: I exercise to maintain health and lose a little weight. I do several different exercises. I change it up so I don't get bored. I do Pilates, swimming, & take dance classes. My favorite is the stair climber. I never use to be able to do it and now you can't get me off of it! (Above) Earth-Expanse Fitness Shoes, WhatAPair.com $88 (Left) Wonder Girl Tank, SkirtSports.com $44
GEMINI: What is your fitness wear style like? KAY PEE: I don't have a desired style. I just wish [the clothes] held me more. I have to wear two bras to certain classes to keep [the girls] in place. I hate wearing pants, although they do make me sweat more. They are uncomfortable. GEMINI: Do you prefer a specific brand, fit or fabric? KAY PEE: Cotton, definitely cotton. Anything else doesn't absorb the sweat or bunches up. I don't have a specific brand. Just whatever is comfortable and cheap.
(Above) Danskin Sports Bra , SportsAuthority.com $28.99 (Left) Champion Double Dry CottonBlend Women's Fit Shorts, Championusa.com $22
GEMINI: One of the most important things in the gym goers closet is their footwear. What do you wear? KAY PEE: I love my Shox! I have been faithful to Nike running and cross training shoes for years. Although recently I purchased a very inexpensive pair of pro spirit that are working out well.
MARSHA BROWN AGE: 30 HOMETOWN: Florida PROFESSION: Licensed Health Insurer & Mom Still in sunny Florida, we decided to look into the life of a busy working mom and find out about her workouts and her style. GEMINI: What is the most uncomfortable fitness wear on the market today? Why is it so uncomfortable for you? MARSHA: Sports Bras. I am very blessed in the chest area, so I need the support of a Sports Bra. However when I wear them the chaffing under the breast comes. GEMINI: How do you choose the type of fitness apparel you wear? MARSHA: Ideally, pieces that provide me with the support I need, comfortable, yet are trendy. Also, apparel that helps minimize the bust area & mid-section are definitely a plus. GEMINI: What activities are you able to comfortably engage in as you workout? MARSHA: I do activities that help maintain my health with minor toning. Since I do have a son, I workout at home using my Ab Lounge & fitness videos. When the sun is down, I do light walks as well. GEMINI: How does stylish footwear fit into your workout? MARSHA: I love stylish footwear and my workout shoes are no exception. They must also be comfortable! On my Ab Lounge I’ll wear flip flops though.
Article written and interviews conducted by Qiwi Red
(Above) Mixed Drink Hoodie, SkirtSports.com $75 (Left) Sweetest Thing Tattoo, SkirtSports.com $75 (Bottom) Reeboks Easy Tone, Reebok.com $109
Wii Fit Plus, Walmart.com $99
We know that we are revisiting the Wii Fit Plus, but this is the must have addition to your workout routine for 2010. Several members of our staff have been using the Wii Fit and they love it. We just know you will too. The software keeps up with your weight and your progress. It is such a motivating tool in the battle to keep a healthy lifestyle in this day and age. So often we wish things were more fun, or made easier for us to stick to on a day to day basis. The Wii Fit does just that! When you buy one, send us an email and let us know what you think.
Alisha Ash recalls sitting across
wearing pants. It did not matter where
from her doctor and hearing those
I went, even if we were going to the
dreaded words-“if you don’t make some
park I would have on a skirt. After
changes you’re going to die”-She
awhile I started making up excuses for
remembers thinking about her two
family and friends when they invited me
children and saying, “I have to do
out.
something, if not for me, then for my children. After suffering her third stroke
Gemini- You talk about emotional
by age turned thirty and a diagnosis of
abuse in your book, what effect did
early stage diabetes, Alisha decided that
the weight loss have on your
it was time she did something about the
marriage?
272 lbs her 4’11” frame was struggling
AA- Before the weight loss my husband
to support. I had the pleasure of
and I got along well. He started making
speaking with Alicia about her journey,
comments and we would argue a lot so
the epiphany, her subsequent divorce
that was part of the mental weight loss.
and her book.
I battled with the title [of the book] but in the end, it represents my physical
Gemini Magazine-Talk to me about
weight loss and the mental weight that
how the book came about.
was lifted when I got divorced.
Alisha Ash-I pulled my medical records and after reading them, I realized that
Gemini-If there was one thing you
the doctors labeled me as an obese
could say to our readers about your
African American woman. I started
journey what would it be?
writing down notes on how to lose
AA- If you want it bad enough you will
weight. I was borderline diabetic and
do it. You have to put yourself first.
denied gastric bypass. The doctor put me on diabetic medication that helped me to lose some of the weight.
Gemini-For that woman sitting at home wondering how they can take
Gemini-How many strokes did you
that first step, what would be your
have and over what period of time?
advice?
AA-I had three strokes from the ages of
AA- Start off small. It is a crawl/walk.
21-30. I had gained 100 pounds with
Use 3lb weights and drink two glasses of
my first daughter. Before that, I had
water before meals so you are not as
always been a perfect size 6 model. It
hungry.
was very depressing. Gemini-How much weight did you Gemini-What was your aha moment?
lose and what method did you use/
AA-My 1st aha moment came after the
AA-I lost a total of 130lbs. I did six
second stroke. I was miserable for 13
months of learning how to eat then I
years. I was only 4’11” and I stopped
started to work out.
Gemini- How are you maintaining your current weight? Are you trying to lose anymore? AA-I am at 130lbs and in the maintenance phase. I do toning but I work out five days a week. This is a way of life for me. Gemini-What are some of the health benefits you have notice since you lost the weight? AA-I have not been sick or had a migraine in four years. Gemini- The dissolution of your marriage must have been very stressful, how did you avoid using food as a crutch? AA-I thought about it and I did not want to slip into my old eating habits. The divorce already had an impact on the children who are 17 and 10. I had to think about being around for them. One thing I changed that is so prevalent in especially in the African American community is using food as a reward. Alicia Ash is a Motivational Speaker and Author of the new inspirational book, “How I Dropped 142 lbs in a Year and Lost 220 lbs in a Day.” Born Alicia Lannette in Columbus, Georgia, Ash has been a featured guest on numerous television shows, most notably the “Oprah Winfrey Show”, and numerous nationally syndicated radio shows like “The Michael Baisden Show”, “The Richard Simmons Show” and “The Warren Ballentine Show. She has penned expositions in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Columbus Times newspaper
and Women World Magazine on the effects of weight gain and loss and, its impact on self, family, faith and finances. These days one can find Alicia busy on the lecture circuit speaking at conferences for women’s groups and at health and fitness workshops about her life story. The collective maltreatment encourages Ash to be unwavering in her mission to empower, inform and boost the confidence of all those she encounters. The book will be in stores and is available online now, and she plans to embark on a book tour to support the book once it hits stores. She is a strong advocate for raising Diabetes & Stroke awareness. Grammy Award Nominee and Diabetes spokeswoman Angie Stone was gracious enough to write a moving foreword for the book. To order books go to www.ashalicia.com. By Latima Johnson Gemini Magazine, Editor-In-Chief latima.geminimagazine@gmail.com
Yoga originated in India thousands
about increased mental clarity and
of years ago as a combination of
physical agility. The sequence may be a
philosophy, movement, and meditation.
short form of 24 movements or a long
The type of yoga most often practiced in our culture is known as Hatha yoga. In Hatha yoga, physical poses, known
form of 108 separate movements. A typical class includes warm ups, called Qi Gong, or Chi K’ung, specific
as asanas, are combined with various
instruction in various aspects of the
breathing techniques, called pranayam,
form, and then practice of the complete
in order to stretch and strengthen the
form. Some classes include a period of
body and relax the mind, in preparation
meditation at the end. Loose,
for meditation. A traditional class often
comfortable clothing is appropriate for
begins with breathing exercises to begin
class. Tai Chi is performed barefoot or
to focus the mind, then moves into
in soft-soled shoes made specifically for
some gentle stretching to warm up the
this martial art.
muscles. The teacher then leads the class in a series of seated, standing, and reclining yoga postures that, depending
Tai Chi forms vary, depending on the family from which it originates. Once the basic form is mastered, you
on the class, may flow from pose to
may advance to games that challenge
pose or be held for longer periods of
balance and dexterity, or even using
time. The class ends with several
swords or sticks in your practice!
minutes of resting meditation, or
Yoga and Tai Chi can help you
savasana, most often done while lying
cultivate easy graceful movements and
on the floor. Loose, comfortable
calm your mind. If you haven’t
clothing is worn during class, and the
exercised in a while, these practices are
practice is most often done barefoot on
a great way to introduce movement into
a yoga mat. Most yoga studios provide
your life. If you have a regular exercise
props, such as blocks and straps that
regimen, yoga and tai chi can add a new
assist and support your body during
dimension to your routine.
challenging postures. There are many styles of yoga from which to choose. If you are looking for a more athletic experience, look for classes that include the words vinyasa, flow, or workout in the description. For a class that is slowpaced and deeply relaxing, try a yin or restorative style. Tai Chi Ch’uan, or Tai Chi, comes from China, and is actually a martial art. Tai Chi is a series of standing and squatting movements thought to bring
Stacey Beth Shulman is an Atlanta area yoga teacher specializing in Yoga for Curvy Girls. For more information visit her website, www.abundantbliss.net
Trying Yoga or Tai Chi for the first time? Here are some tips to help you get started: Do Your Research: Contact the studio or school ahead of time and inquire about the classes offered. Are there specific levels or general group practice times? If a class has piqued your interest, ask for more information. Cash or Credit: Make sure you know the fee policy before you come to your first class. Not all studios or schools accept debit or credit cards as payment. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get comfortable in the space and meet the teacher if you have not done so already. Be Up Front: If you are concerned about your ability to participate due to the size or shape of your body, let the teacher know. She should be able to provide you with modifications so that you can relax and enjoy the class. Be Patient: Learning new skills takes time, so don’t worry if you feel awkward in the beginning. As you become more familiar with the practice, you will feel more at ease. Try a Series: Many studios and schools offer a beginners class series. Although it may require paying for several classes in advance, you will have the chance to meet new people, practice together, and watch how you progress. Notice the Difference: The effects of yoga and tai chi can show up in many different ways. Observe how you feel before and after each session, and find something to be proud of every time.
Browsing the aisles of books at the library, my eyes fell on one in particular I had heard was a great read. Being a woman interested in how other women make it in business, I picked up the book, checked it out, and left the library. The book sat on my night stand for almost two weeks. Then, almost as if God had it planned to a T, I flipped the book open on that lazy summer day and begun to read. I stayed up for 24 straight hours reading that book, and just days later I got the call that the woman who I had learned so much about in one day would be on the cover of Gemini. If you are unfamiliar with the name, Lisa Price, you shouldn't be. With a passion for fragrance, Lisa Price created Carol's Daughter. Starting off slowly, just mainly making things for herself and coworkers (who, at one point, happened to be the cast and crew of The Cosby Show), and working out of her home. Today, Carol's Daughter is not just the side hustle of a woman passionate about the power of smell, but a company who has the attention of some of the biggest celebrities to date (Mary J Blige, Oprah, Jada Pinkett Smith, and our favorite curvy diva Queen Latifah...just to name a few). I recently got the chance to sit down and talk with Lisa about her business, her health, her latest partnership with Disney, and what is in store for her and Carol's Daughter in 2010.
GEMINI: Ever since I heard the news, I had been dying to know how Disney approached you to do the Princess & The Frog products that Carol's Daughter created? Did you have complete creative license? LISA PRICE: We heard that they were looking for a brand with whom to partner to make products for children, and we were able to garner a meeting to present our brand to them. The meeting went well, so we were able to get the go ahead to do the project. We did not have complete creative license because the film is their property, the characters are their property, the art is their property. We worked with them to develop the packaging. They did not come to us and say, 'We want you to make a product that has this in it, that smells like this.' They gave us story information, character information, art work and then our creative team and
our marketing team was able to come up with the concept. Product development worked on product from the perspective of making something gentle for children that would perform. Then we used water lily as our fragrance starting point because of the time she spends in the bayou and her reveal dress, for lack of a better term, was inspired by a water lily. And that was information that was shared by Disney and we took that direction to go with it, but they didn't come to us and say 'Make it smell like a water lily'. GEMINI: When you began Carol's Daughter, you were working a full time job and allowing yourself to take things slowly. In your book, Success Never Smelled So Sweet, you touched on getting out of debt, and never wanting to return to that place. How do you think that way of thinking, and living, has shaped your way of doing business? LP: My entire approach to how I did things was organic. I had to raise the money before I could spend it. I didn't do things based on how quickly I could get them done or how big I could do it. I did what I could afford. GEMINI: Do you think that is the best way to do business? Just taking one's time and not try to do things all at one time? LP: I think it depends on the business and where you are within that business. Some businesses do not work without making a big splash and a lot of noise because the world they live in is big, splashy, and loud. So in order to make a statement they have to be big and splashy and loud. So it is not something that will work across the board in all businesses. Just make smart decisions and buy the things that you need and not the things that you want.
GEMINI: What would you say to women who have a business idea but are afraid to act on it for fear that they won't be able to balance both family and work? LP: I think you can. If you focus on one thing it is easier, but I think ultimately if you are happy your children benefit, and if you are miserable they suffer. So even though pursuing your career or your entrepreneurial ideas may take you away from them from time to time, if in the end it fulfills you then you are just a better mom. And if in the end it benefits your income in your house, then you are able to provide for your children better. It's all about balance, and personal preference. GEMINI: With all of the traveling that you do, what do you do to keep yourself centered and sane? LP: It helps to be able to touch base with home. My sons are 13 and 12 so we do a lot of texting back and forth to each other. Keeping my music with me, a good book with me...I like to relax and watch a movie from time to time. I try to look for the positive when I'm away. I say to myself 'Ok, I'm in this hotel room and I don't have any children, I don't have to cook anything, I don't have to do laundry, I don't have to clean up behind anybody' and in the evening, if I'm not working, I'll take time to read or go through paperwork and take advantage of the quiet time.
doesn't have to endorse our products or take pictures or anything, but if I could say that Prince was one of my customers I'd be thrilled about that. And....a woman? I think it would be pretty cool to call Barbara Streisand a customer.
GEMINI: Carol's Daughter has a long list of celebrities who endorse the company, and use the products. Who is the one woman, or man, that you would love to add to that list? LP: I can't not say this person. I love Prince. [laughing] If I could call Prince a customer, that would be great. He
GEMINI: If you were to create a product for the First Lady that represented what she embodies, what would it be? LP: I would make her a shimmer stick that she could put on her shoulders and her arms because they just always look stunning.
GEMINI: Really? LP: I know those are two very different people, but I have admired Barbara since I was eleven years old. I just love her, and I love Prince.
GEMINI: Carol's Daughter is known for healthy skin, and hair. What is your personal healthy skin and hair regimen? LP: I use our products. I wash my hair once a week, and I use hair milk on it every day to style it. I always have a lot to do, so my wash and go curly style is what I wear most often because it's consistent and I know what I'm going to look like everyday. My makeup regimen is basic. For skin care I use our skincare system. I would like to work on an eye cream, but until then I try different kinds to see what moves me. So far none have moved me yet, but I keep looking. Hopefully we will be developing one soon. I have regular manicures and pedicures at our spa here in New York to keep my hands and feet in shape. GEMINI: As a full figured woman, what do you do to keep yourself healthy? LP: I have struggled with losing weight for a very long time and as I have gotten older it's been very difficult for me to take it off. I have a completely different approach now. I take my health more seriously, and I am a better exerciser. I make much more careful choices with what I eat. Weight is not something that you can fix overnight and it doesn't matter if you do Jenny Craig, watch what you eat on your own, exercise, have a lap band, or you have gastric bypass surgery. The bottom line is you have to work. You have to make the commitment and change your life or none of it works. GEMINI: What is in store for Lisa Price, and Carol's Daughter? LP: As far as Carol's Daughter is concerned it is going to be a big year for us. We will be launching more hair care
products and be more focused on the benefit that will be derived from the hair care. For example, we have a new formulation for our Rosemary Mint Shampoo, and we added a conditioner to go with it. The benefit from it is that it is purifying and that it's the ultimate hair detox. I also got to work with Mary J Blige on developing her first fragrance and that will launch this year, and it's beautiful and wonderful and I'm just so proud of her. I can't wait until everyone gets to smell her fragrance. I'm going to expand my business on the home shopping network, which I think will not only change things for the brand but change things for me as well. I think that working in that medium will be very educational for me. With being a mom, my oldest son will be going into high school in September and I don't even know what that looks like [laughing]. That's like so scary. My middle son will be turning 13, so he'll be a teenager. My daughter will be turning 4, and she'll be starting kindergarten this year. It is interesting looking at them and having each one being in a different place. GEMINI: Of all of the things that your mother and your grandmother could say to you right now, what word of advice do you think they would give to you? LP: Probably to make sure that I take care of myself, make sure that I get my rest, and make sure that I eat right. That was something my mom always reminded me about because she knew that I worked hard, and she knew that I would do what the job I was required to do. So her reminder was always make sure you get your rest, make sure you're eating properly, and make sure you take time for yourself. Interview by Sommer-Lee Johnson, Publisher Photography by Felicia Atwell, Atwell Photography
In our journey through Work and Life, the success of the Gemini Woman depends solely on implementing balance. Yet for many of us, the desire to keep every aspect of our lives on an even keel becomes more words than action. This lopsided living is why some women often suffer serious side effects from having a too full plate. The inability to balance the load often manifests not only in our work but in our health as well, in turn, creating debilitating illnesses brought on by stress. The New Year creates additional stress as we endeavor to redefine our lives and celebrate the dawn of a new chapter. This year is especially significant because it is the start of a new decade. With the changing of seasons so comes the pressure of maintaining old responsibilities along with living up to a new level of day-to-day challenges. By following some simple self-care tips, you can find the necessary balance in your life.
Do You So what is the key to balancing the things we have to do with the things we want to do? Debbie Mandel M. A., Author of Addicted to Stress-A Woman’s 7 Step Program to Reclaim Joy and Spontaneity in Life says, “The key to achieving work/life balance is to manage your stressors, eat balanced healthy meals…exercise for energy and vitality and carve out special time for yourself to do what makes your heart sing.”
Check Your Baggage It may seem difficult to leave work at work and home at home, but much of the stress we experience is created because we do not separate the two. Mandel says, “ Multitasking along with distracted thinking dilutes our work and dilutes out attentiveness to family-like the mother who does business on her cell phone during the school trip-she is really not present to her child-separating the two breaks the worry loop and releases fresh, resilient thinking.” It is imperative to maintain a clear line of demarcation when it comes to your personal and professional life. Many of us think nothing of taking work home with us or scheduling doctor’s appointments while at work and doing so every once in a while is not so bad. However, if you find yourself constantly crossing the line between the two, it is time to reevaluate your schedule especially if you have an employer who is not sympathetic to the plight of working mothers. They key is to reach out for help. The idea that we can be everything to everybody is a myth. You have to be able to articulate your needs at work and at home. “Most bosses will listen if you talk with them from a place of conviction. If, however, you are wishy-washy, I promise you will be told there are no options for a more flexible schedule,” says Sylvia Lafair PHD., executive coach and author of “Don’t Bring it to Work.” “So spend time getting your priorities in order
and getting clear that you want to change the pleaser pattern to the truth teller, and the martyr pattern to the integrator who can ask for and get help from others.” Another mistake Lafair says many women make is to believe that when they are having issues they have to grin and bear it. “No one had to go through hard times alone,” she says, “’a stiff upper lip’ mindset can be extremely damaging.” She recommends that you reach out to your boss or HR specialist and apprise them of your situation. You should not, however, go into too much detail.
Figure Out What Really Matters to You in Life Part of the reason we are living such a reckless and unbalanced lifestyle is because we spend more time pleasing the world while attempting to squeeze in the things we love with little or no success. Mandel suggest removing some of the things on your never ending to dolist and replacing it with something you are good at doing or that you like to do. Putting yourself and your needs first will help to balance the amount of giving with the amount of receiving. Often times our priorities become a mix of what the world expects from us, and less of what we desire for ourselves. However, once you learn to exercise selfcare it becomes much easier to juggle the many hats we as women tend to wear. Article by Alaina L. Lewis
As you can probably gather, Gemini’s January issue is dedicated to wellness and stress free living. With that said, it just makes sense to start your journey at home. A home that is inviting and peaceful does wonders for your well-being and arms you with the serenity you need to face the outside world. You may ask-how can I create a peaceful environment at home when I’m never there? Many of us treat our living space as we would a hotel room. We stop in eat, sleep, shower and if we’re lucky do a few chores here and there. Our lifestyles keep us rushing on to the next project and if we have kids, on to the next activity. The good news is Gemini has you covered and in this two part series, we are going to explore the ancient art of Feng Shui. Gemini spoke with Sara Remington, President of Hampshire House, a design firm that specializes in Feng Shui. Below is an excerpt of our conversation.
Gemini: Does Feng Shui play a big role in personal health? Sarah Remington: Absolutely. Now, do you know anything about Feng Shui, like what it is? Gemini: I have a cursory knowledge, but I was hoping that you could delve a little deeper and really educate me and the readers on what Feng Shui is. Sarah: Sure. Well, Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art and science on laws that govern the flow of energy. The practice is about 4,000 years old in China, and the Chinese refer to the energy as Qi; it is spelled Q-I. And, the term Feng Shui is translated as wind and water; and it refers to these forces of nature as columns of energy that form physical landscape. And, the idea here is that when you improve the flow of energy, you are in a much better position to attract what you desire. And, basically Feng Shui is the sum of three kind of Luck. So, it is believed that Heaven Luck is the life circumstances that you were born into and that is something that you really cannot change. And then, Human Luck is your attitudes and behavior that determine what you do with your life circumstances. So, those are things that we can change ourselves. And, the third item is Earth Luck, and that is the positive influence or negative influence of the environment that you live and work in. And, Earth Luck is really where Feng Shui can help. So, it can amount to one-third of your overall total Luck. So, Heaven Luck, Human Luck, and Earth Luck. Gemini: Okay. Sarah: And, Feng Shui improves your Earth Luck, which is one-third of your overall Luck. And, using Feng Shui principles, you create a better flow of energy in your home and work environment that surround you 24 hours a day. And, by going with the flow, you
create more harmony and good luck in your life. Gemini: Okay. So, in terms of overall wellness, how would we incorporate Feng Shui in our homes in order to balance those energies? Sarah: Well, if it's for overall health and wellness, there is few steps that you can do. There is kind of two different types of Feng Shui; there is personal space Feng Shui which is specific to you, and then, there is also general Feng Shui which is like universal, and that can help anyone in the home. So, why don't we first of all, let's go through some general Feng Shui that is specific to health and then perhaps, as an example, we could take a look at you and maybe figure out what your personal energy number is? And then, we can do things that are going to be specific to you, just that will probably help you understand the actual process. Gemini: Great. Sarah: Does that make sense? Gemini: Yes. Sarah: Fabulous. So, pretty much, to create general health, the direction for health in your home is the east location of your home. So, to create health for the whole family, you want to activate the east areas. And, that could be your living-room and probably bedroom is also the best places to activate. Tthe first thing that you need to do in any home before you are even starting to Feng Shui-ate, do some space clearing. A lot of times, we have a lot of clutter in our homes, and that clutter tends to block the flow of Qi. So, the first thing to do is really, get organized and get tidy. Just throw out all of those things that you have been holding on to that you don't use, give away things to goodwill, and just create a better space within your home. And then, the next thing that you can do is, think of things that represent or
enhance the wood elements of the east, because again, east is the direction for health in general Feng Shui. And, things that will represent and enhance the east are going to be any wooden objects, perhaps trees, tall plants, and all sorts of the colors, green and brown. So, it can be something as simple as, in your livingroom, put some green plants in this location. And then again, anything that symbolically represents health to you. You could actually put the business card of your child's pediatrician in the east location of that bedroom. Gemini: Oh, okay. Sarah: Now, and again, that could go for anyone who has any type of health problem. A good thing to do is to put that card in the east location of the bedroom. And then, if the whole family often gets ill, you could activate the east area in the living-room or family room with a small water-fountain. Okay. And then, to create some overall health, make sure that you have always closed the bathroom doors and that keeps the flushing energy away from connecting with the higher energy level in the rest of your home. Gemini: Oh really? Sarah: Absolutely. So, keep your toilet seat down and bathroom door closed. I spend a lot of time at my friends' homes closing bathroom doors. Gemini: Wow! I never knew that‌ Sarah: That right. So, any good fortune or good health that you do have, can get flushed away by that type of energy. That one is very simple. Some of the things are very simple, easy steps just to at least start the good energies flowing. Interview conducted by Latima Johnson, Editorial Director. Look for the second half of the interview in our Spring Fashion Issue.
Activate the 9 compass directions in your home: Southeast (Fortune & Abundance): Flowers; plants; money frog; wealth ship; bank statements; your most precious or valuable objects. South (Recognition, fame, music dance, enlightenment): Fireplace, candles, pictures of dance, music, articles of recognition, images of enlightened people, images of birds flying. Southwest (Motherhood, romance, collaboration): Image of a mountain; crystals; gemstones; ceramics; images of motherhood; romantic pictures. East (Health, family, new beginnings): Trees; tall plants; flower images; family ornaments; musical instruments. Center (Balance & Harmony): Image of mountains; crystals; gemstones; ceramics. West (Children, creativity, communication, soul work): Image of lake; playing children; music; telephone; fax machine; your own creations. Northeast (Spirituality, knowledge, wisdom, teaching): Crystals; gemstones, ceramics; books; certificates; poetry; spiritual images like Buddha. North (Career, path towards the future): Aquarium; image of a river/creek; small waterfall; images of your professional career; future projects. Northwest (Support, fatherhood, friendship, mentorship, traveling): Images of planets/stars; image of mentors; male masters; your address book; images of foreign countries; map of the world; circle of friends.
Hampshire House Interiors Personal Feng Shui – Latima Johnson Step 1: Clean and organize your home and office Step 2: If possible when watching TV etc, sit on a strong chair with a solid wall behind you and positioned so that you can see the entrance to the room. Step 3: Position your desk facing the entrance to the room and (if possible) one of your best directions described below. Step 4: Position your bed so that you can clearly see the door. Facing the headboard, stand at the foot of your bed to check the compass direction. Ideally, position your bed so that when you sleep the top of your head points toward one of your personal best directions (Southwest, Northwest, West and Northeast). *Important - remove or relocate any mirrors that reflect your bed! Step 5: Activate your personal best directions. Personal best directions: • Success – Southwest • Health – Northwest • Relationships – West • Growth – Northeast 1. Write your main intention for success, health, relationships and growth in your life on four individual post card size pieces of paper. 2. Find images that represent your intentions. For example, in your
relationship direction place images of a romantic couple. 3. Place activation card and image in the appropriate compass direction. 4. Place the cards in your bedroom at home. These are your goals or intentions for your personal and family life. 124 Granite Street, Medfield, MA 02052 Tel: 508.264.0585 Hampshire House Interiors
Special tips to enhance love and relationships: To enhance general romantic luck and marriage activate the Southwest areas with: •
Items that represent or enhance the earth elements of the Southwest including crystals, rocks, gemstones, earth tones: yellow, orange, rose, brown, red, beige.
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Images of romance or marriage.
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Personal pictures with your romantic partner
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Items in pairs to send the message of positive relationships
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The Chinese double happiness symbol
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Picture of a vase filled with Peonies (especially auspicious if you are looking to get married!) Note: If you are married do not do this as it will bring in another relationship from outside your marriage).
Darren Chester “Baby, do these jeans make me look fat?” There isn’t a man in this world that hasn’t heard that at one time or another. Now, I’m not one to condone lying, however, unless you are the offspring of Carl Lewis, I don’t know how smart it would be to answer that question. There is no right answer to a question like that. If you say no, she’s going to automatically assume you’re lying. If you say yes, well, heaven have mercy on your soul. Your best hope is to deflect her question with a question, I’ve found this to be most effective, -“I don’t know babe, I was just wondering the same about these pants I have on. You think they make me look fat?”-might take the heat off of the situation. When you look around it’s obvious that many Americans spend little to no time in the gym. We also spend very little time working on our relationships, as nearly half of all marriages have a tendency to end in either divorce or some type of separation. Two of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to endure were being in a relationship and losing weight. In theory, they both sound like something that should be fairly simple. If you work at it hard enough, the pounds will come off, your partner will be happy and all will be right in the world of love and life. Unfortunately, that’s not reality for nearly two thirds of Americans; the reality is that it’s hard to lose weight and someone’s husband/wife/girlfriend/boyfriend is packing their bags right now. But don’t worry; I’ve got the solution that will make your 2010 one of the best years yet.
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I wanted to provide our couples that are going to attempt to work out together with a few tips on things they can do to get started. With the help of Sparkpeople.com I found these suggestions most helpful for the couple that may not know where to start: • Before you begin any workout regimen consult with your doctor. You want to be declared physically fit by a medical professional so that there are no surprises once you begin your workout. Also, don’t over exert yourself. You are not going to get into shape overnight, you may not see any results at first; that does not mean push yourself harder. Pace yourself, only do things within the physical limits of your body; don’t do too much too soon. • Workout classes. They are a good way for you to learn and exercise at the same pace and speed. Many classes have beginner, intermediate and advanced levels so as you become fit you can move through the different stages of the class together which will allow you to encourage each other while also monitoring your progress together. • Power walking and outdoor walking. It is one of the simplest and easiest ways to become active. It allows you the opportunity to get outdoors, engage in conversation while also building conversation. Start at a pace comfortable for both parties that way you don’t feel like you’re holding each other back.
Many people make the New Year’s resolution that they are going to get themselves in shape, hit the gym and lose all the pounds gained over the holidays in addition to the 15 or 20 that managed to sneak up on you over the course of the year. One of the reasons that many people are done with that resolution by February is because losing weight is more than just going to the gym three or four times a week. Over the years I’ve come to realize that losing weight is just as much mental as it is physical. Just going to the gym, hopping on a treadmill or lifting a few weights isn’t going to be the answer to your troubles, it takes a lifestyle change. Losing weight requires a lifestyle change as does making a commitment to share your life with someone . My solution for your 2010 weight loss goals and beyond is quite simple-Couple Workouts. Getting in shape is not something that can be done on your own, most people that have changed their body through diet and exercise will tell you that the thing that probably helped them the most was having a solid support system. Having someone there to encourage and push them when things got hard. What better support system than your significant other? When couples work out together, two things are accomplishedyou both now have a common interest that you work on together and you manage to spend time together in a way that will reinforce the foundation of your relationship. While in a perfect world we would like our mates to come into the relationship complete, it’s been my experience that couples that work together towards a common goal, tend to be able to face adversity better and are less likely to run at the first sign of trouble.
A couple that chooses to work on their health collectively reinforces the relationship. However, it is important to understand that your partner can not do the work for you. You also need to make sure that you are embarking on the journey for the right reasons. You will not be successful if your motivation does not come from within. With that said, your partner is a built in support system use him or her. “Sometimes just knowing he’s there and having his support helps me get through the tough times,” stated a Gemini subscriber when asked what was the difference between her working out alone and with her boyfriend. “It’s easy for me to get discouraged when I’m not with him because I don’t see the results as soon or as often as I would like and that can be very demoralizing; but he’s such a sweetheart. Whenever I’m having one of my down days or one of my moments where I feel like giving up he’s there to encourage me and lift my spirits.” Working out with your partner isn’t going to be easy for all couples to do; it’s going to take communication and compromise. Men and women are naturally built differently, our bodies carry weight differently and we all have different athletic ability levels. It’s going to be important for each couple to communicate their strengths and weaknesses and to also be open to trying new things. Men, it’s going to be important for you to be encouraging if and when your mate does not see results as quickly as you may see them. Men have a tendency to carry most of their weight in the upper body while the women carry the majority of their weight in their lower body. Weight lost from the torso and upper body areas tends to be more noticeable than weight lost in the thigh and leg areas, so it’s important to encourage to your partner if they start see results right away.
According to divorcerate.org, it’s expected that up to 50% of all marriages will end in divorce. while almost 1/3 of all Americans 20 years and older are overweight (for more information go visit the Centers for Disease Control web-site). For 2010, the goal is to lower both of those percentages. Using Couple Workouts is yet another way to keep the pounds off and the family intact. It’s going to be up to each couple to monitor both their physical and mental progress, there’s no better motivator or workout partner than the person that loves you.
• Strength training. This can be tricky because many women don’t want to add mass the way most women do; I’ve also found through experience that some women may be intimidated by free weights or the weight machine. However, the encouragement of her mate and proper instruction on what exercises will work muscle groups that matter to her will provide with the confidence she needs for strength training. • Cardio machines will give you away to work on your individual goals but still be side by side or in close proximity to one another. You’re able to work at your own individual speeds and comfort levels but you’ll still be together.
Sparkpeople.com is a web-based community that encourages and promotes healthy living. The views expressed here are those of the author and are in no way affiliated with sparkpeople.com or its staff.
The year 2010, as it rolls off the tongue and spills onto the lips, gives breath to the endless possibilities of life. Every year, energy flows from every inch of my body at the thought of something new...fresh...untouched. There is something, however, so magical about this year upon us. Perhaps it is the thought of better things to come, or perhaps it is the thought of memories to be made that brings joy with every mention of the new year. In my heart though, I realize that it has very little to do with either of those things. It has everything to do with the one thing so many of us shy away from every day of our lives....change. Change can be quite scary. The change of a routine, the change of our source of love or security, or change in age can shake us to our very core—potentially destroying our lives. But perhaps if we opened our eyes...our hearts...our minds to the possibilities of change, our lives would not have to halt or become our own personal prisons. Every January people put their best foot forward trying to...well...change, yet something happens to steal that opportunity away. My belief? Fear comes in, even when we don't know what it is, it creeps into our lives and steals away—little by little—our chance to change. What were to happen if we were no longer afraid? This month, Gemini looked into the healthier side of change, but as we know, there are all types. There are many types of change for us to fear and run from, but if we stop, breath, and listen we will see the larger than life voice of fear is really just a tiny whisper capable of being totally over looked. Gemini has made some changes, and I have to say they have all been good choices. Sometimes, realizing that you have people surrounding you willing and able to spread their wings and ride the wave of change is the most freeing leap of faith one can take. I've been weird for many years. I have been a loner, socially inadequate, and just plain ol' weird so the fear of change has never really bothered me. I always jump in with both feet. I know what you are thinking, not the smartest thing in the world, but the excitement of living life and being able to not see what is coming next is refreshing. Change...is...refreshing. The excitement of learning something new, being able to say “at least I tried”, and sometimes failing is refreshing. Part of living a healthy life has little to do with what you eat, how much you and your treadmill commune with one another, or what the numbers on the scale may say. Part of living a healthy life is having enough faith to step out and be a part of life. Make the choice today, tomorrow, and the next to be present in your life, walk by faith (not by sight), and be open to the beauty of change. Do that and just see how your life....hmmm...changes.
Sommer J
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