Absolute Mama Issue 10

LETS TALK

Essential Oils & Aromatherapy GIMMICK OR NATURE’S GIFT?

Going Natural NATURAL HAIR CARE FOR YOU AND THE ENVIRONMENT

PCOS DECOR

10 of the Best Serene Living Rooms

Nude Food

Delicious banting & keto recipes from Armand Aucamp’s latest book

THE LAND OF SMILES EXPLORE THE INCREDIBLE BEACHES AND ISLANDS OF

Mozambique

Unpacking the impact of

PARENTAL ALIENATION

TRACKERS VS SMARTWATCHES:

Same, Same But Different

ISSUE 10 2021 • R55.00 (VAT Incl.)

21010

SIGNS OF INSULIN RESISTANCE & THE LINK TO DIABETES 9 772617 450004

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KIDS FASHION

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PARENTAL ALIENATION

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WE LOVE

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HAIR CARE

40

ANOREXIA

46

INSULIN RESISTANCE

16

FASHION

Contents

PARENTHOOD 32

ISSUE 10

DIGEST

20

KIDS FASHION

14

WE LOVE

Must haves for this season

110

NEW READS

Delightful books for you and your kids

FASHION & BEAUTY 16

All the latest looks for the kids this season

22

WOMEN’S FASHION

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40

THE SKINNY ON ANOREXIA

One young woman’s journey back to health

YOUR HAIR WILL THANK YOU

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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WHAT IS INSULIN RESISTANCE?

We look at natural, eco-friendly and sustainable hair care

THE GREEN SALON

Fabulous fashion to complete your wardrobe

6

PARENTAL ALIENATION

We discuss the symptoms of parental alienation syndrome

How sustainable is your hair salon?

46

We delve into the signs of insulin resistance and the link to diabetes

contents | ISSUE 10

90

HOME DÉCOR

100

52

MOZAMBIQUE

PCOS

70

NUDE FOOD

60

ESSENTIAL OILS

TRAVEL

66

FITNESS

94

STELLENBOSCH

52

PCOS

A guide to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the causes thereof

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DO ESSENTIAL OILS REALLY WORK?

Gimmick or nature’s gift to us? We delve into the need to know on essential oils and aromatherapy.

FOOD & FITNESS

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NUDE FOOD

Delicious, wholesome keto and banting recipes from Armand Aucamp’s latest recipe collection

Plan and explore Mozambique for your well-deserved tropical holiday

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10 of the best serene, composed and relaxing living rooms

A satirical entry into our resident Dad’s diary

POWER NEUTRALS

Wanita Nicol unpacks the difference between fitness trackers and smart watches

Make the most of your living room with these décor pieces

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MOZAMBIQUE

DAD’S CORNER

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8

100

HOME DÉCOR

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TRACK STARS

We explore the town of oaks and all that it has to offer

COOL, CALM AND COLLECTED

LOSING MY MARBLES

Editor’s letter “Fill your life with women that empower you, that help you believe in your magic and aid them to believe in their own exceptional power and their incredible magic too. Women that believe in each other can survive anything.

Women who believe in each other create armies that will win kingdoms and wars.” —Nikita Gill On a recent media trip I was reminded about the strength of sisterhood and the unwavering power of women. It was amazing to see how these women, all remarkable and who had basically just met one another supported, and motivated each other without judgement or second thought. On the night before we were set to go zipline one of the highest ziplines in Africa, we all felt a bit unsure about this adrenaline filled bucket list experience, but we were there motivating one another. The day of the experience the support continued, one by one the ladies faced their fears and surprised their sisters and even themselves – we all left feeling empowered and inspired. We went through a couple more thrilling experiences together and the support continued.

I returned from my trip asking the questions: Do we as woman support and acknowledge our mothers, sisters, girlfriends as much as we should? And if we were to support one another the way we should, what would we be able to achieve?

Don’t underestimate the power of a woman, you are resilient, you are

extraordinary!

In this issue we explore the benefits of switching to greener more sustainable hair care in your home and at the salon, we look at the signs of insulin resistance and the link to diabetes and guide through the causes and symptoms of PCOS. We look at the need to know when it comes to essential oils and aromatherapy, we discuss the effect parental alienation has on our kids and get the skinny on Anorexia, the story of one young woman’s journey back to health. We feed our bodies and souls with delicious and nutritious recipes from Armand Auckamp’s latest recipe book, Armand’s Nude Food and travel to the Land of Smiles – Mozambique. We count down 10 of the best serene and relaxing living rooms to transform your lounge into a tranquil, yet light filled cocoon.

Grab your copy or your tablet, sit back and enjoy!

Join me online Absolutemamamag

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www.absolutemama.co.za

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absolute

mama S o u t h A f r i c a ’ s P re m i u m Pa re n t i n g Li fe s t y l e M a g a z i n e fo r H e a l t h y L i v i n g

Publisher: Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd Managing Editor: Anje Hill Design & Layout: Stacey Storbeck Nel - Indio Design Contributors: Alasdair Cunningham, Bureaux.co.za, Celeste Hinrichsen, Greg Cox, Helen Clemson, Elsa Young, Lori Cohen, Nabila Mayet Cassim, Robyn Alexander, Shelley Street, Tille Del Negro, Warren Heath Copy Editors: Barbara Stuart, John Swinley Social Media Manager: Monica Van Der Merwe - Monka Admin & Accounts: Candice Swart, Jordin Hill Images & Illustrations: Bureaux.co.za, Garmin, Shutterstock, Supplied Advertising Sales: Jason Hill Distribution: On The Dot Printing: CTP Printers Editorial enquiries: anje@absolutemama.co.za Sales enquiries: jason@absolutemama.co.za The absolute mama Magazine is published by Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd www.absolutemama.co.za Tel. 087 802 2035 Fax: 086 416 2977 Email: info@absolutemama.co.za DISCLAIMER ©Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd. ISSN:2617-4502 No article or any part of any article in Absolute Mama may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher.

The information provided and opinions expressed in this publication are provided in good faith, but do not necessarily represent the opinions of Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd or the editor.

Neither this magazine nor the publisher can be held legally liable in any way for damages of any kind whatsoever arising directly or indirectly from any facts or information provided or omitted in these pages, or from any statements made or withheld by this publication.

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We Love

Freshly pressed and naturally fermented non-alcoholic cider, organic baby skincare and mung beans like you have never had them before are amongst our top picks this season

Join the #ARKsquad

Give your little ones the freedom to explore and grow with a play mat that makes a welcome addition to your space. From the time you first bring them home all the way up until they’re tying their own shoelaces, ARK play mats blend beautifully with your interior, creating a practical floor space that will build their confidence and give you peace of mind.

www.arkplaymats.co.za

The Alternative Lifestyle Choice

Non-alcoholic drinks are surging as the trend towards alternative lifestyle choices takes hold across the globe. Loxtonia, the ‘orchard to bottle’ 100% freshly pressed and naturally fermented apple cider from the Ceres Valley, has you covered with a refreshing, low-calorie Non-Alcoholic Cider.

Delicious to the core with just 58 calories, this non-alcoholic cider will never weigh you down. Whether you are a self-care maven, a mom-to-be or designated driver, you can make good alternative choices without having to give up on the original premium Loxtonia Cider taste.

For you and for the planet, JUST Egg has zero cholesterol and less saturated fat than conventional eggs, with a similar amount of protein. Its ingredients require less land, water and carbon emissions to make; in fact, it’s one of the most sustainable protein sources available. Made from the protein-rich legume mung beans. Mung beans have been in the global food system for thousands of years, but they’ve never been used quite like this.

When you pour JUST Egg in a skillet, the gentle sizzle as it hits the pan and the way it cooks into a fluffy, chewy breakfast scramble will exceed all your expectations.

www.loxtonia.co.za

www.infinitefoods.com

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Made from Plants (Not Chickens)

digest | WE LOVE

Citrus at its best

ClemenGold® mandarins have become a household name for mums who show their love by means of the healthy and fun lunchboxes they pack. Little ones absolutely adore them – enticing them to eat fruit has never been so easy. They are easy to peel, virtually seedless and super sweet and juicy … and packs a vitamin C punch. Available at Woolworths countrywide.

For recipes and lunchbox ideas, visit www.clemengold.com or follow them @clemengold

Nature’s Way

Beautifully designed packaging always charms us in the baby and children’s department, but skin, body and hair care for littlies must have the right stuff in it too. Enter VIVAIODAYS Organic Baby Care, a range of organic products inspired by natural remedies. In fact, the gorgeous illustrations on the tubes and bottles pay homage to various global tribes and cultures and what’s been used for centuries in therapeutic bath, body and skincare.

www.sevengreenshoots.com

Jewels for Your Every Day

Mañana, an online store based in Durban, is an accessory dreamland with a range of curated items such as earrings, necklaces and rings. They keep their store fresh and relevant by constantly updating their collections and small quantities are stocked so that your chosen piece will be exclusively your own – make luxury a daily ritual.

www.shopmanana.co.za

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fashion & beauty | WOMEN’S FASHION

5.

1.

Spring Chic Feel inspired in the latest fashion this season

2.

6.

3.

8.

4.

7.

9.

1. Aisa earrings, Pichulik R750 2. Cotton interlock dress, Trenery R699 3. Circe necklace, Pichulik R1350

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4. BKWIK white bag, Steve Madden R1099 5. Myra sunglasses, Witchery R499 6. Top, Ted Baker R4500

7. Irregular stone cuff, Woolworths R120 8. Zip detail pants, Ted Baker R2700 9. Chaser rafia, Steve Madden R1299

fashion & beauty | WOMEN’S FASHION

5.

1.

2.

6.

3.

8.

7.

4.

1. Bevelled link necklace, Wooloworths R149 2. Floral dress, Ted Baker R5900

3. Cat ring by Thomas Sabo, Bellaluna R7450 4. Genevive heel, Country Road R1599 5. Elouise sunglasses, Witchery R599

6. Dress, H&M R629 7. Heritage wallet, Country Road R899 8. Textured fedora, Woolworths R229

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fashion & beauty | WOMEN’S FASHION 5.

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6.

2.

7.

3.

8.

4.

9.

1. Star leopard sneaker, Nicci Boutiques R1499 2. Denim dress, The GAP R* 3. Leather belt, Ted Baker R1000

4. Flatform espadrille mules, Woolworths R499 5. Lionheart earrings, Pichulik R1350 6. T-shirt, Tommy Hilfiger R

7. Blue dial blue mesh strap watch, Bellaluna on behalf of Obaku R1799 8. Pants, The GAP R* 9. Three wise woman ring, Pichulik R1050 *Missing pricing not available at time of print.

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www.obaku.com

fashion & beauty | KIDS FASHION Monogram Bag, Sodabloc R350

White cap, Converse R*

ZX 2K Boost shoes, Adidas R2299

Beach views print t-shirt, Woolworths R199

Fleece pullover, Jordan R989.95

all the

T-shirt, GAP R*

Sandal, Sodabloc R175

Adjustable denim short, Woolworths R229

High tops, Converse, R*

Adicolor SST track pants, Adidas R849

Super soft jogger, Converse R689.95 Gingham overnight bag, Country Road R529 *Missing pricing not available at time of print.

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fashion & beauty | KIDS FASHION

Jumpman logo pullover, Jordan R849.95

ZX 2K Boost 2.0 shoes, Adidas R2299

Cap, Sodabloc R125

ARKD Graphic tee, Adidas R499

T-shirt, GAP R*

Fresh fashion for the youngsters this season

Watch, Sodabloc R225

Camo classic backpack, Adidas R749

Digiprint Drifit shorts, Nike R369.95

Adjustable abrasion light wash denim shorts, Woolworths R269 Drawstring cargo pants, Woolworths R379

Boys lo top Cody striped sneakers, Sodabloc R299

All Stars, Converse R*

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fashion & beauty | HAIR CARE

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fashion & beauty | HAIR CARE

lather, rinse, repeat In recent years there has been a shift towards more ecofriendly, sustainable and natural beauty products. Not only do these ‘green’ beauty products positively affect the environment, but they’re also better for our bodies.

BY ANJE HILL

Going Natural Whether you already use some natural products as part of your hair care routine, or you are looking to dive right in, you’ll be pleased to know there are lots of benefits for your hair, skin and the world around you when switching to products made from naturally derived ingredients.

While conventional shampoos undeniably clean your hair, they’re known to cleanse sometimes to the point of eliminating the hair’s and the scalp’s natural oils, causing them to dry out and resulting in itchiness. Also, those with skin sensitivities or easily irritated skin may find that synthetic shampoos aggravate these conditions. When hair is introduced to the chemicalfree ingredients in natural shampoos, although it may feel unlike the way conventional shampoos cause it to feel because the hair continues to hold onto its natural oils. With regular use, natural shampoos can help the hair

to feel softer and smoother while enhancing its natural sheen.

Hair products that contain harsh chemicals don’t seem to be only bad for the health of your hair and scalp, they also affect overall health. When products are applied to your hair and scalp, they are absorbed by your skin and make their way into your body. Ingredients like parabens and phthalates have been linked to health concerns like breast cancer, due to their ability to mimic hormones. Opting for natural hair products will help to prevent health problems related to such ingredients.

Ingredients like silicones in non-natural hair care products seal the hair cuticle, preventing moisture from entering. Through sealing the hair cuticle, silicones mask the problem, making them smooth and silky, but it is possibly in need of moisture and hydration.

Natural hair products use naturally derived ingredients instead of silicones to provide hair with the

nutrients needed for properly nourished hair – while it can take some months to notice results, in the future your hair will become much healthier.

Kinder to the environment

We should be kinder to our hair and the environment. Most natural hair and skincare brands use recyclable or biodegradable packing which suggests that once you’re done with the product, the packaging won’t harm the planet or be discarded in a landfill site.

Instead, the packaging will either decompose or be reused, therefore reducing harm to the environment.

As sad as it is, animal testing is unfortunately still carried out on many products throughout the hair and beauty industry. Going natural with your hair care products usually means going cruelty-free, too.

However, it’s best to check the packaging for the cruelty-free label before purchasing any product.

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fashion & beauty | HAIR CARE Now that you have a little more insight into the benefits of using natural hair products, it’s time for you to make the switch, here’s our favourite natural hair care finds:

SIMPLY BEE Rosemary and honey shampoo

HEY GORGEOUS Activated charcoal conditioner

RAIN Biologie natural shampoo

This Honey and Rosemary shampoo is packed full of essential oils creating a rich shampoo for everyday use.

R131 for 300ml

Nourish and moisturise your hair and scalp with this luxurious cream conditioner fortified with marine extracts rich in essential vitamins and nutrients, this treatment penetrates deeply to promote thick and healthy hair.

Activated Charcoal naturally detoxifies, purifies and soothes scalps. It heals and nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair follicle regrowth.

R275 for 250ml

The Biologie all-natural Shampoo not only makes you hair smell fresh and clean, but it certainly cleanses well too. It’s eco-ethical, formulated using organically certified botanical

BE.BARE Tame That Mane shampoo bar This bar combines the wonderful properties of organic raw cacao butter, virgin coconut oil and Mozambican coconut butter, making it a supremely nourishing cleanser – perfect for dry, frizzy or damaged hair. It smells deliciously, dessert for your hair!

R130 for 100g

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ingredients and organically wildharvested plant oils and extracts.

R195 for 250ml

NUL Mongongo and wild sage hair shampoo bar SIMPLY BEE Hair pomade An all-natural beeswax hair wax great for styling and dread-locked hair.

R177 for 125ml

Conditioning Wild Sage stimulates healthy hair growth, Mongongo oil combats frizz with intense hydration.

Rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids vitamins and minerals.

R120 for 60g (60-80 washes)

fashion & beauty | HAIR CARE

How Sustainable is your

HAIR SALON?

The professional hair appointment is becoming far more than just a cut and blow dry. Behind the scenes, sustainability actions and wellness advice mean your visit to the salon just got a whole lot better for you and the environment.

BY HELEN CLEMSON

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fashion & beauty | HAIR CARE

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fashion & beauty | SUSTAINABLE HAIR CARE

W

hile the South African salon space responds to national measures such as load shedding, and in turn finds ways to use less electricity (and also COVID-19 correct protocols), the international professional salon sphere is certainly showing us the way forward. A Canadian organisation – Greencircle Salons – recycles, recovers and repurposes salon waste. This includes hair clippings, excess hair colour, metals (like foils used during highlights) and plastics.

There is a great need for this type of service that they’re providing to the local industry. Greencircle report that just over 19, 000 kg of excess hair colour is simply thrown away every day and worst still,

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almost 46, 000 kg of left-over metal is dumped too. While these ecoachievements in first world countries are applaudable, the efforts being made on the local scene in response to our consumer’s needs aren’t just helping keep salons in business but are steps forward in sustainability too.

How We Do It Shelene Shaer, co-owner of Tanaz Hair in Johannesburg is on a quest to create a more environmentally conscious space, both as a business owner and hairstylist. She has adopted a very clear wasteless approach and it’s very much in reaction to national operations, and of course the current pandemic. “In South Africa, we as

hair stylists ask how we can still service clients in terms of electricity supply?” she explains. Switching over to Ecoheads at the basins reduced water and energy usage by up to 65%. “That means reduced costs and that’s a necessity,” adds Shelene. The COVID-19 crisis has also meant the safety of clients is of the utmost importance, but how do we solve the challenges of singleuse items? “It’s a big issue, because everything has become disposable,” she adds. The answer lies in eco-friendly, bio-degradable yet disposable towels (yes these actually exist!). Made from natural fibres with no binder or chemicals added, the towels are compostable and available for both home and in-salon use.

fashion & beauty | SUSTAINABLE HAIR CARE

As a basic, Dr Allem recommends at least the following foundational supplements: a multi vitamin, Omega 3, Vitamin D, Zinc and a good anti-oxidant such as Glutathione or Co-Q10. She emphasises that there is no onesize-fits all approach: most patients suffering with severe hair loss need blood tests so that various levels of vitamins, minerals, hormones and so on can be evaluated and a custom supplement prescription can be done, she explains. “For some, if stress is the main trigger, then supplements that assist in stress management would be prescribed in order to help the patient, for others a completely different approach may be required.” As Shelene unpacks it, from a salon perspective, that approach is being more conscious.

“We have had to become more aware of our clients needs and what’s going on in the world, and that means being completely present, aware and in touch,” she says. We all live in a stressful environment, but our stress has now increased dramatically. And it’s all

A HAIRY ISSUE

Inside Out Living through a pandemic is naturally showing up through a major hike in stress and that means our hair is feeling the burden. “In the case of COVID-19, one of the main things we are seeing is increased stress levels (higher cortisol levels) in most people in general,” reports Dr Maureen Allem, founder and medical director of Skin Renewal.

While shampoos that are more earth friendly – even vegan hair products – are readily available in a professional salon environment, the question lies in the total sustainability of the item. Shelene’s viewpoint is this: “When packaging isn’t bio-degradable, it doesn’t make sense.” That’s become important for us, she continues. “Are we working with companies that are actually making a difference to what we are collecting afterwards, in other words, the bottles and tubes? If not, we are missing the point.”

Dr Allem is a general practitioner with a special interest in aesthetic procedures as well as integrative and anti-ageing medicine. “This absolutely does lead to more cases of people suffering with hair loss due to the extreme stress levels and waves of stress that the pandemic has caused,” she adds.

relative to our own lives. I believe sorting it out starts from the inside out. So, we as hairstylists have to help fix what’s going on inside, before we can fix it on the outside.

We need to have a holistic approach, she adds. “A wholelistic approach i.e. working on the whole of you.”

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advertorial

COVID IMPACT ON OUR CHILDREN, IN THE CLASSROOM

By Chantelle Ballossini (Educational Psychologist, Holy Rosary School)

L

ooking back over the past 15 months, we have seen many changes in the world at large, but more specifically in our school community and classrooms. Our children have had to learn to embrace change at an alarming rate. One day they are at school, happily learning and socialising and the next they are told that they need to remain at home due to this horrible thing called Covid. They are seeing parents, grandparents and families getting ill and may have even lost a friend or loved one. This in itself, can be seen as a “trauma.” Trauma is the result of a distressing or disturbing event that affects our sense of security, our emotions and leaves us feeling helpless and anxious. Despite the fear of actually contracting the virus, the feelings

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of isolation and breakdown in daily routines just heighten their anxiety levels.

Our children, to some extent, have had their childhoods “ripped” away from them. They can no longer have birthday parties, sleepovers, play dates, family vacations, play sports or run around freely without the ‘large gloomy Covid cloud’ hanging over their heads. The childhood that they once knew and enjoyed is slowly becoming a distant memory. Covid in effect goes against everything we as parents and teachers want to teach our children. We want them to share with their friends, to socialise and not sit alone at break and to help a friend who has fallen; these little life lessons now all go against Covid safety protocols.

They have had to learn to take on several new

responsibilities: remembering to wear their masks, sanitize, social distance, online learning (when forced to stay at home), and then remembering which books to bring back to school when they are no longer doing online schooling. Although these may seem like small responsibilities, to our children these are big tasks added on to their already busy daily activities.

What are we seeing at school? In the younger grades, some of the girls are anxious to come to school as they fear leaving their parent/s. What was once an exciting morning routine, has now become a laborious and scary practice.

Some girls have lost loved ones to Covid, so they are scared to leave their parents in case, “Mommy/ Daddy gets Covid and I don’t see them again.” Our children are living in fear; fear of Covid, fear of the unknown, fear of losing a family member, fear of life.

This fear is manifesting as anxiety in most, if not all our children. When walking the corridors of the school, the chatter amongst the children is mostly about how much they hate wearing masks, how they wish Covid was over or never existed, how they miss seeing their

friends’ faces or playing freely on the playground. They talk about how they have lost out on their sports’ fixtures, lost out on camp or fun school outings.

In our classrooms, teachers are noticing how the girls are far less independent and are often afraid to start a task without the reassurance of the teacher.

When asking the girls to do written tasks or speeches, one teacher remarked that the girls are adding Covid 19 in their work even if the topic is not about Covid - they find a way to include it. These children hear about Covid at school, at home, on TV, on social media and it has become an allencompassing topic in their worlds. Another teacher reported that she is worried about the emotional state of the girls as their levels of anxiety are far higher than ever before. Now, more than ever, the mental health and emotional well-being of our children is of utmost importance.

At school, we are focusing more on our girls’ mental and emotional wellness. We have introduced breathing exercises during the day - to calm them when their anxiety levels seem too high.

Breathing is important in calming down the autonomic nervous system and thus puts the brain into a calmer state that also makes it more susceptible to learning. We have regular ‘brain breaks’, where we actively listen to the girls’ experiences and fears.

Teachers are giving the girls time to ‘offload’ when they are having a difficult day, opening up safe spaces for discussions and creating calm. Rather than focusing on the curriculum and content, we are being guided by our girls’ pace and emotional state.

So what else can we as parents and teachers do?

• LISTEN to our children’s concerns and fears without downplaying them and telling them that they are overreacting. If we do not acknowledge their fears, they will slowly start to retract and bottle up their emotions. Let them know that their feelings are safe with you.

• Don’t focus on their grades/marks, their mental health is more important than their grades.

• Focus on building and strengthening your relationship with them - learning won’t happen until they feel safe in their relationship with you.

• Spend quality time with them, enjoy playing games, reading books or doing arts and crafts together. Time for fun and laughter is more important than ever before.

• REMEMBER- “The world has changed, especially for children but children’s needs haven’t changed. They still need to feel safe, be close to their families, like their teachers and have friends to play with” Beverly Cleary.

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parenting | PARENTAL ALIENATION

Parental

Alienation The impact of parent/child disconnect can be devastating and long-lasting for children and adults. Children of divorce and parental split are most at risk. Let’s unpack and discuss the symptoms of parental alienation syndrome.

BY CELESTE STRYDOM

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parenting | PARENTAL ALIENATION

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parenting | PARENTAL ALIENATION

What Is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation refers to a situation in which one parent manipulates a child in order to distance that child from the other parent. Through a process of pressure and programming, the child rejects the other parent and might express resentment, suspicion, or fear of the other parent.. To win the approval of the

manipulative parent the child might become dismissive and derogatory toward the targeted parent.

Types of Parental Alienation There are three types of alienators.

1. Naïve Alienators • Want the child to have a good relationship with the other parent.

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• Maintain civil communication with the other parent.

• Prioritise supporting the child.

• Occasionally say hurtful things about the other parent.

Children are not expected to become alienated from one parent over the other.

2. Active Alienators • Want the child to have a good

relationship with the other parent.

• Are unable to maintain decent communication with the other parent.

• Allow their emotions to rule their behaviour.

Children may experience pain and confusion around how they should feel toward the other parent.

3. Obsessive Alienators • Aim to destroy any relationship with the other parent.

•E xpect children to hold the same view of the other parent that they do.

• Try actively to win the child over.

Children’s rejection of the other parent may be extreme as they mirror the manipulative parent’s behaviour.

The devil is in the detail Parents might claim that they never bad-mouth the other, but many behaviours contribute to alienation.

The intention is not particularly relevant, rather, attitude is.

Alienation tactics that create conflict and disconnect: 1. Undermining the targeted parent’s trust.

parenting | PARENTAL ALIENATION

2. L imiting contact and communication.

3. C reating an image of the targeted parent that is unsafe, unloving, and unavailable.

4. E ncouraging the child to betray the targeted parent’s trust.

5. R eplacing the targeted parent in the child’s mind.

The damage done The impact of parental alienation on children is well documented, although still a largely overlooked form of child abuse. Candice Warner, Child and Family Therapist, and Mediator at The Care and Contact Centre in Cape Town warns that this coercion can have serious and long-lasting mental and emotional consequences for the child. She advises that children who are alienated from a parent may experience: • A lack of trust • Increased feelings of anger • A sense of neglect (or run the risk of having basic needs met

while caught in the middle of the parents’ fighting) • Low self-esteem • Depression • Guilt Later they may: • Become combative • Lack empathy • Become prone to lying about others • Be rigid in their views, seeing things as starkly black or white.

“The best security blanket a child can have is parents who respect each other.” – Jane Blaustone

How to co-parent in harmony Candice recommends caution and a parenting plan. “Children are resilient, but they are also impressionable. Obviously, if a parent is abusive or otherwise harmful, a different set of rules needs to apply. However, in normal circumstances, where two reasonable parents exist, the child benefits most from retaining a

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS • Unreasonable anger toward the other parent.

• A lack of remorse for hurting the rejected parent.

• Repeating the favoured parent’s words regarding the rejected parent.

• Denying past positive experiences with the other parent.

• Showing no interest in improving the relationship.

• Viewing one parent as wholly good or wholly bad.

• Rejecting any friends or family of the targeted parent.

relationship with both, even after a split.

A parenting plan allows a legal framework to outline, guide, and protect the rights and responsibilities of all concerned.’’

Choose the child The feelings fostered in the child who is manipulated are rooted in believing that they are unloved while being denied the opportunity to mourn the loss of the parent.

When you view the expense to the child as trauma and grief, you can start appreciating the value in counting to ten and letting your negative feelings go.

You must remember that you and your child are not one person.

Although you might have been hurt by the other parent, your child deserves to have a relationship with both of you.

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parenting | EATING DISORDERS

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parenting | EATING DISORDERS

Anorexia The Skinny on

one young woman’s journey back to health

BY HELEN CLEMSON

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parenting | EATING DISORDERS

n a report published

by Netcare, it’s estimated that up to 4.2 percent of women have suffered from anorexia in their lifetime. Even more worrying, this disorder has the highest fatality rate of any mental illness. In a quest to share her journey, anorexia survivor Hannah Altmann self-published her book (Not) A Piece of Chocolate Cake (Amazon) about her experiences and recovery. Not only is Hannah sharing her story, but her Mom Ingrid and registered dietician Kim Hofmann impart their personal advice for families.

Hannah “I suffered from disordered thoughts for many years but struggled openly for about a year before I committed to recovery in 2019, Grade 12 of high school.

Since then, I go through -good and bad periods. I can be very positive and self-confident for months at a time and then slip into a negative Hannah

self-image and disordered thoughts that last a few weeks before I force myself out of them. My mom was very hands-on with my problems, and assisted in every way she could, from taking me to dieticians, spiritual healers, doctors and more.

She talked me through many anxiety attacks and always tried to make me feel safe when I was struggling. I think having a supportive person like that in my family was a major help. I would encourage parents try to be as supportive as possible along the whole way, despite not understanding at times and getting frustrated with the situation.

I honestly don’t think enough people are open and straightforward about it, due to previous negative stigma as well as a sense of embarrassment that sometimes accompanies an eating disorder. I think open communication would help more people understand properly what goes on. It would also mean those suffering may feel less alone, and less ashamed of what they’re going through. I’m very glad I wrote the book, as it let me put all of my thoughts and opinions into words for others to read, and so far, I hope it’s made a difference in people’s lives, even if it’s just a few.”

Ingrid “Parenting Hannah during this journey was extremely difficult, very emotional and was tough on all family members. It was like a demon possessed my child and took over her mind. I read somewhere that the only way to get through this is using love and patience and to understand that the person going through this is terribly scared. I was fortunate enough to have a few other moms to call on who have already

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Ingrid and Hannah

experienced this; just to cry on the phone with them and get as much advice as possible.

They were my sanity as was my kinesiologist. I had a few sessions of the Byron Katie technique, and this was very helpful and insightful for me. We first noticed that Hannah was looking extremely thin when we were on holiday. We were in Italy and she never touched a pizza or anything that was a carb.

I knew that as soon as we got home I was going to have to get her help. In fact, if I could change one thing and do it differently, it would be to notice the signs earlier.

Hannah was the perfect candidate for this disorder. She is an A-type personality, a high achiever and she was always anxious as a child, I thought that life would show her that there was really no reason to be anxious. Had I known that this was one of the signs, I would have dealt with her anxiety earlier. It is tough to stay strong, but you just have to. Luckily

parenting | EATING DISORDERS

“ If someone had told me, just a few years before this moment, that I’d be having a minor panic attack because of a slice of cake, I would’ve told them to shove it. I was a strong, fearless, independent woman - and cake was delicious? Why on earth would that become my biggest fear?” – Hannah Altmann – (Not) Just a Piece of Chocolate Cake.

my husband is very supportive and even though he found it very difficult to understand, he was always there for all of us.

I wish that parents spoke more freely about what they or their children are going through. I was very vocal and everyone knew that we were battling this disorder.

I think that schools should also be more aware of this disorder in particular as it is very prevalent in young teenage girls.”

Kim “There are a whole lot of warning signs that your child may be struggling with anorexia.

The emotional and behavioural signs include becoming preoccupied with issues like weight, food, calories, fats and dieting. They’ll often start by refusing to eat certain foods (like sugar) and go on to restricting whole food groups (such as carbohydrates).

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parenting | EATING DISORDERS

Kim

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Children will also often make comments about feeling fat, even though you may be seeing them losing weight (it is also common for them to dress in baggy clothes to hide their weight loss or because they are so cold). They will refuse to maintain an appropriate weight and are constantly looking to lose weight even if they are underweight already. There is an intense fear of gaining weight and being fat. They generally can’t see what they look like (body dysmorphia). They often complain about constipation, abdominal pain, no energy, struggling with sleep, dizziness or feeling faint or cold all the time. In girls, loss of the menstrual cycle is common. They generally start developing food rituals, hate eating in public, love cooking and baking (for others) but

refuse to eat it themselves, make excuses around mealtimes, start exercising rigidly and often overexercise. They start withdrawing from life and become isolated and secretive. There is an immense need for control, which is difficult in life and therefore they look for it in food and weight. Ideally, children should see a professional when they start cutting out foods and changing their eating to change their bodies. At this point the anorexia has generally not set in completely. They are more resilient and able to see the logic of why eating regularly and enough is necessary. The later we get to see them, the more difficult it is to get through to them. This is one of the hardest diseases from which to break free - the average time for recovery is seven years.”

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health & wellness | INSULIN RESISTANCE & DIABETES

Signs of

INSULIN RESISTANCE and the link to Diabetes You’ve been exercising daily and eating the right foods, but nothing’s changed. Could it be insulin resistance?

BY CELESTE STRYDOM

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health & wellness | INSULIN RESISTANCE & DIABETES

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health & wellness | INSULIN RESISTANCE & DIABETES

I

nsulin is a hormone that helps your body turn food into fuel, but sometimes the process doesn’t go according to plan.

We look at insulin resistance, who it affects, whether it’s reversible and how we can manage it.

What is Insulin Resistance?

Your body breaks carbs down into sugar, or glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Your pancreas releases the hormone, insulin, which allows glucose to enter the cells of your body. Then glucose can be used for energy or stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen to be used later. If glycogen stores are full, excess glucose is stored as fat.

If you have insulin resistance it becomes hard for your body to clear the glucose from your bloodstream.

Your muscles and liver resist the action of insulin, so your body needs to work harder to produce more, even though it is dealing with the same volume of glucose.

Over time, this results in high blood glucose levels as well as high insulin levels. Insulin resistance precedes type 2 diabetes by about 10 years, and without lifestyle changes, prediabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Progression to Diabetes

1. Insulin resistance The body’s response to insulin starts to weaken, leading the body to produce more insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

2. Pre-diabetes The body starts to struggle to make the extra insulin it needs to overcome insulin resistance.

3. Type 2 diabetes Insulin resistance worsens. Insulin production declines and blood glucose levels climb even higher, resulting in Type 2 Diabetes.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance Dr Yuvan Maharaj, a family physician of Medicross, Netcare, warns that you can’t tell that you have insulin resistance by how you feel. A blood test that checks blood sugar levels is necessary before such a diagnosis can be made.

Signs of Insulin Resistance include: • Extra weight, particularly around your midsection • Skin tags • Patches of dark, velvety skin (often behind the neck, under armpits and in the groin) called acanthosis nigricans • Fatigue • Elevated blood pressure • Bloating • Sugar Cravings

What are the risk factors?

A family history of insulin resistance, having polycystic ovarian syndrome, a sedentary lifestyle and your ethnic background all serve as risk factors. Sugary

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Metabolic Syndrome/ Syndrome X Inositols is a component required in the process of glucose metabolism and storage of glycogen which is required for healthy insulin levels

Risk factors of Metabolic Syndrome

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health & wellness | INSULIN RESISTANCE & DIABETES

foods can contribute to reduced insulin sensitivity; however, a major risk factor is being overweight.

Eat it to treat it!

The good news, says Dr Maharaj, is that you can increase your sensitivity to insulin, or reverse insulin resistance altogether, through eating and lifestyle changes.

A low-glycaemic (GI) index diet is best for someone who has insulin resistance. It’s low in saturated fat and high in fibre.

This includes: • Colourful vegetables • Lean protein.

• Healthy carbohydrates • Fruit Yes, fruit contains natural sugars — but it’s also a good source of fibre, micronutrients, and antioxidants. Aim for two pieces of fresh fruit a day.

• Dairy or alternatives

Lifestyle High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT) effects are fast acting because they help to stimulate the muscle cells to take up glucose instantly.

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“Getting enough sleep and managing stress can also improve how insulin works in your body,” adds Dr Maharaj.

The time is now When we explore the management and prevention of insulin resistance, it’s easy to see that there are no shortcuts.We are simply called on to look after

our bodies. It’s self-care in its most basic form. Drink water, exercise regularly, rest, eat healthy foods and indulge in moderation.

They say you don’t know what you’ve got until you lose it. So perhaps the last word from Type 1 diabetic, and co-founder of Sweet Life Diabetes Community, Bridget McNulty, is the most powerful.

She recommends making the necessary lifestyle adjustments today to avoid the long-term repercussions of living with diabetes.

“It is entirely possible to live a healthy, happy life with diabetes.

But it entails being hyper-aware of what you eat at all times. A diabetes diagnosis will force you to make diet and lifestyle adjustments, take medication, regularly check your blood sugar levels and always be on the lookout for long-term complications.

Knowing that this doesn’t have to be your eventuality, it makes all the sense in the world to take charge of your health now.”

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health & wellness | PCOS

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health & wellness | PCOS

A Guide to

PCOS

Do you suffer from irregular or no periods at all?

Irregular ovulation?

Difficulty getting pregnant?

Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back or buttocks?

Thinning hair or hair loss on the head?

Weight gain?

Oily skin/acne?

BY NABILA MAYET-CASSIM

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health & wellness | PCOS

I

f you answered yes to a few of these you may be suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) an endocrine system disorder affecting women in their primary reproductive years whereby fluid-filled sacs develop on the ovaries.

What causes PCOS? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all reason behind PCOS. What we do know is that genetics play a big role.

Usually, patients with a mother/

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sister who suffers from PCOS are more likely to develop it. Much of the research points to the presence of elevated testosterone (male hormone) levels that affect the production of hormones and eggs.

This causes the production of extra insulin in the body.

PCOS creates insulin resistance and higher levels of testosterone are usually associated with increased insulin resistance.

Clinical Nutritionist, Elenia Kolokotronis (www.elenia-k.com) says that PCOS originates at the

very start of development and is often diagnosed later in life either at the time of menstruation or when trying to conceive.

What happens in the body with PCOS? The higher levels of androgens in the body interfere with egg development and release. Cyst build-up replaces the egg release during ovulation after a normal period. These cysts become enlarged and affect regular ovulation and egg release resulting

PCOS and struggling to fall pregnant? What now?

Millions of women across the world struggle with polycystic ovary syndrome (“PCOS”). Before discussing PCOS, here are some stats that will hopefully make women realise that many women suffer from PCOS and that it does not mean that you will not be able to fall pregnant.

• •

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a health problem that affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age.

Between 5% and 10% of women between 15 and 44, or during the years you can have children, have PCOS. 1 Most women find out they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s, when they have problems getting pregnant and see their doctor.

•

PCOS is more common in 3rd world countries due to the unbalanced diet that is consumed.

•

Women of all races and ethnicities are at risk of PCOS. Your risk of PCOS may be higher if you have obesity or if you have a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS.

What is PCOS? PCOS is caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. The hormonal imbalance creates cysts (small fluid-like sacks) on the ovaries. The ovaries make the egg that is released each month as part of a healthy menstrual cycle. With PCOS, the egg may not develop as it should, or it may not be released during ovulation as it should..

PCOS can cause missed or irregular menstrual periods

What is Fertipil Plus PCOS? Fertipil Plus PCOS is a scientifically designed product which focusses on assisting women in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, better known as PCOS. The ingredients contained in Fertipil Plus PCOS have shown significantly increase chances of falling pregnant by reducing the size of cysts on the ovaries and producing more quality oocytes.

Irregular periods can lead to:

Studies have shown that the ingredients contained in Fertipil Plus PCOS can assist with:

•

•

•

Infertility (inability to get pregnant). In fact, PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women.

Development of cysts (small fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries

What are the common symptoms of PCOS? • •

• • • •

•

Irregular menstrual cycle Excess hair on the face, chin, or parts of the body where men usually have hair Acne on the face, chest, and upper back Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp; male-pattern baldness Weight gain or difficulty losing weight Darkening of skin, particularly along neck creases, in the groin, and underneath breasts Skin tags, which are small excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area

• • • •

Reducing the size of ovarian cysts Improving Imp mprov o ing the number of good goo ood d quality q of oocytes Having H ing Hav ng an insulin insul ulin sensitizing eff ffect ect on the body o Regulating Regula Reg ulating g menstrual mens e trual cycles Promoting Promot Pro o ing g ovulation

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Plus PCOS includes: • • • •

Myo-Inositol D-Chiro-Inositol Alpha Lipoic Acid Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Studies have shown that a combination of Inositol and Folic acid substantially reduces the size of ovarian cysts and increases egg quality and reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women undergoing ovulation induction as part of an IVF cycle.

In a study of overweight women with PCOS that were given inositol and folic acid during IVF, 32% of women had a successful pregnancy within the 12-month study period, compared to just 12% of women who only took a straight folic acid supplement sup pplemen ment w without ithout ith out th tthe e iinositol. nosito nos itol.l.

were reported to be effective in reducing the insulin resistance in PCOS patients.

A study, involving more than 18,000 women, concluded that taking a regular daily dose of folic acid supplements improved fertility in women. The data showed that those taking the supplement regularly had a 40% lowered risk of suffering from problems related to egg production (20%, the second biggest cause, of female infertility is as a result of ovulation issues).

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health & wellness | PCOS

in irregular or missed periods.

“While PCOS is a lifelong condition, it is not a life sentence,” Kolokotronis says. Many women live healthy, normal lives with PCOS. “A PCOS diagnosis does not mean being infertile.”

Treatment for PCOS? A combination of medical and lifestyle interventions helps to manage the symptoms of PCOS and lower the chances of health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

Birth control pills are the most common treatment method to regulate menstrual cycles along with medications to assist with insulin resistance and diabetes.

In addition, it is absolutely imperative for patients to create a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle that includes nutrition and exercise.

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PCOSITOL

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Nutritional supplement that may support patients suffering from PCOS

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health & wellness | PCOS

RECOMMENDED FOODS INCLUDE: • natural, unprocessed foods • high-fibre foods • fatty fish: salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel • leafy greens: spinach and kale • dark red fruits: blueberries, red grapes, blackberries, and cherries • broccoli and cauliflower • dried beans, lentils, and other legumes • healthy fats: olive oil, avocados and coconuts • nuts: pine nuts, walnuts, almonds, and pistachios • dark chocolate in moderation • spices: turmeric and cinnamon

exacerbate PCOS symptoms greatly.

Does PCOS mean that you will never conceive?

“This is simply because what and how we eat will affect the levels of the hormone insulin in our blood and very often PCOS patients struggle to maintain a balanced weight. A balanced diet will ensure optimal health and successful management of their diagnosis,” Kolokotronis says.

PCOS patients should avoid high sugar foods to lower insulin levels and the elevated male hormone levels allowing their bodies to balance naturally.

The following nutritional diets are recommended: • A low glycaemic index (GI) diet: whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, starchy vegetables and other unprocessed foods that are starch-rich and low in carbohydrates • An anti-inflammatory diet: berries, fatty fish, extra virgin olive oil and leafy greens which will decrease

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inflammation and its symptoms such as fatigue • The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet reduces the impact of heart disease: this diet is rich in poultry, fish, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains Importantly, all these diets discourage sugary, processed, high in fat foods.

PCOS and Mental Wellness Research highlights that PCOS patients are three times more likely than others to experience depression and anxiety.

Excessive hair growth, hair loss, acne, weight changes and fertility problems can affect the mood, self-confidence and body image. Importantly, stress and irregular sleeping patterns

Kolokotronis, a PCOS patient herself believes that this diagnosis is common, treatable and while it may cause bumps in the road to having a baby, it certainly does not mean having no babies ever.

Advice from the expert: Kolokotronis advises managing the condition, symptoms and fortifying your body nutritionally. It may be a slower process, but Rome was not built in a day and undoing an unhealthy state of mind and body does not happen instantly.

Dedication is key. I have rarely seen the body not respond or perform positively when it is balanced, fortified in optimal health and has been looked after.

When this is done whatever course of action is taken toward pregnancy whether with the aid of fertility treatments or naturally, the body will almost always respond positively.

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health & wellness | ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

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health & wellness | ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

Do Essential Oils Really Work?

Gimmick or nature’s gift to us? Here’s what you need to know about essential oils and aromatherapy.

BY LORI COHEN

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health & wellness | ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

S

ince the dawn of history, people have used plants for medicinal purposes.

But one folk remedy that seems to be on a neverending rise is essential oils. Today, there’s renewed interest in using essential oils to improve one’s physical or psychological state.

“Medicines are overused for so many ailments, and aromatherapy is one of the things that you can use to make you feel better without using a drug,” says Doryce Sher, pharmacist aromatherapist.

However, it is not a solution for treating severe illnesses and diseases. So, for example, it’s not appropriate for the treatment of cancer, but research shows aromatherapy is helpful in the treatment of anxiety in cancer patients.

The Root of Healing “Essential oils are the aromatic essence of a plant, some refer to as being the heart and soul of a plant. These oils are volatile (readily vapourised), neutral chemical compounds, extracted from plants and hold natural therapeutic properties. They are highly potent and concentrated - the statement

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‘A little goes a long way’ is very true for essential oils,” says Barbara Du Plessis at Soil Organic Aromatherapy.

Sounds natural, so it must be great, right? You need to be aware - the market is unregulated, making it difficult for consumers to know exactly what they’re purchasing.

“Researching and trusting your brand is vital, says Barbara. The key factors to choosing a good quality essential oil is in its purity and point of origin.

A 100% pure essential oil is one free from being diluted, adjusted, or rectified in any way. Pure, simply means the liquid is an unadulterated essential oil direct from the plant.

The therapeutic effectiveness of the essential oil depends on its natural chemical composition. To achieve the optimum oil properties, the plant must grow in its most ideal point of origin.

Choosing 100% certified organic essential oils, is a simple way to eliminate any doubt of the quality of the oil. This certification guarantees traceability of the supply chain to the origin.

It assures the oils have been organically farmed and handled

responsibly, the oils have been tested in reputable laboratories to warrant the purity and its chemical composition meets the specifications of that specific oil.

It also guarantees they are 100% free from chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, preservatives, buffers, or fillers”.

Essential oils should not be used on children younger than six months old but can be used in tiny quantities until the age of three; after that, half doses for children and the elderly and “as directed” for adults.

Essential oils can also have different effects based on how they are used. For example, when essential oils are inhaled via vapour from a diffuser or burner, compounds are absorbed through receptors in our noses. These messages are sent to other parts of the brain, which can then play a role in emotions and memory.

When essential oils are applied topically, the compounds they contain can be absorbed into the skin and enter the bloodstream.

“They should be diluted in a cream, gel or carrier oil to ensure safe amounts are used,” says Doryce.

From our farm to your family a pure, natural and organic path to health and wellness

SOiL Organic Aromatherapy was born from a passion to bring the health and wellness benefits of essential oils to homes and families across the globe. Established in 2004, SOiL offers 100% pure and organic aromatherapy and skincare products. A family run and managed business, we grow, distil, and produce our products on our farm, in the heart of Zululand, Kwa-Zulu Natal. To grow our product offering we extended our search for quality organic oils to Africa and beyond. We consistently strive to bring our clients certified organic oils from ethical, sustainable sources and we are committed to being a company that values the environment, our customers, our employees, and the rural community in which we operate. Being the first South African company to sell a complete range of 100% certified organic aromatherapy products, we believe in organic certification as your guarantee that a product is truly organic and free from harmful chemical residues. SOiL is certified by Ecocert Greenlife, Fair for Life, Beauty Without Cruelty and the Vegan Society of South Africa.

Find your balance in NATURAL and ORGANIC skincare, mental and physical wellness with SOiL. Visit www.soiloils.com to view SOiL's essential oils, carrier oils, shea butter, massage oils and remedy rollers.

15% off in support of all Absolute Mama readers SHOP at www.soiloils.com use COUPON CODE: MAMASOiL 1 September to 15 November 2021

FIND US AT Dischem, Clicks, Wellness Warehouse and most independent health stores.

Explore online at Takealot, Faithful to Nature, Harvest Table and Essentially Natural.

CONTACT US www.soiloils.com info@soil.co.za +27(0)35 340 7008

health & wellness | ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

5 Essential Oils You Want in Your Life

Rosemary = better memory The scent of rosemary may have a memory-boosting effect on older adults. Scientists at Northumbria University conducted a study, which linked rosemary to better memory and cognition in elderly adults. “Rosemary is also good for blood circulation and the relief of painful joint conditions when used in a cream or carrier oil, and then rubbed on your muscles, joints or feet,” says Doryce.

Lavender = less anxiety, better sleep “Lavender oil is said to be the most versatile essential oil, known for its calming and soothing properties. Diluted lavender can be topically applied to calm and soothe irritated skin, inflammation, burns, scarring and insect bites. It can also be applied to pulse points and temples to bring relief to headaches, insomnia, stress, and anxiety,” Barbara says.

Eucalyptus oil = better respiration, Eucalyptus is a natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and opens up the airways. It may help with respiratory issues such as sinusitis when inhaled, and used on the skin can help with joint pain and skin ulcers. Once again, it should be used diluted in a carrier when applied topically.

Tea tree oil = better skin Tea tree oil is often found in cosmetics and hair care products because of its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. “Used in a diluted form on a burn, for example, is helpful. However, again use a little bit.

Use too much, and it will kill the beneficial microbes too,” says Doryce. She also warns that a small percentage of the population is sensitive to tea tree oil.

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Peppermint oil = less pain Used for centuries as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal ailments, peppermint oil is naturally soothing and may help to relieve pain. Using peppermint oil can ease irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, like stomach cramps and gas.

food & fitness | SMART WATCHES AND FITNESS TRACKERS

TRACK STARS

Gone are the days when watches merely told the time. Today’s wrist candy tracks your activity, displays notifications and even prompts you to be healthier. What’s more, the options are seemingly endless – so we’ve narrowed them down.

BY WANITA NICOL

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food & fitness | SMART WATCHES AND FITNESS TRACKERS

Garmin Fenix 6s Solar

TRACKERS VS SMARTWATCHES: SAME, SAME BUT DIFFERENT You’re looking for something that straps onto your wrist, measures things like heart rate, step count and workouts and provides data through an app on your phone.

But some are advertised as “fitness trackers” and others are called “smartwatches”. What’s the difference?

1. Looks.

A big part of it simply comes down to appearance, according to Pierre Pienaar, a technical specialist at Cape Union Mart.

“A fitness tracker is a simple band with a basic display, whereas a smartwatch looks more like a watch – it has a bigger display and can show you many more results and detail on the screen,” he says.

2. Capability.

While trackers pack a punch these days, top-of-the-range features are

reserved for smartwatches. “You’d need a degree in sports science to understand some of these features,” says Pienaar. “It’s really elite athletes and their sports doctors and coaches who would need to analyse the amount of information that the high-end watches record.”

3. Chest-strap heart rate.

For more accurate heart-rate readings, you can connect a chest strap to a smartwatch – but not to a tracker.

4. Battery life.

A good tracker can last a marathon time in GPS mode, but a top-of-the-range Suunto or Garmin can last up to 150 hours while the GPS is on!

5. Price.

Fitness trackers tend to be more affordable than smartwatches, says Pienaar. A top-notch tracker like the Huawei Band 6 comes in at

R1 700; those top Garmin and Suunto smartwatches we mentioned could set you back as much as R18 000.

HEALTH OR FITNESS? Knowing which of these is your main focus will help you choose the best device for your needs. If your goals are fitness orientated, look for products that monitor your progress in real-time, recommends Akhram Mohamed, director of Ecosystem Development /Partnerships/Apps & Services for Huawei Consumer Business Group. Also look for exercise reminders and a variety of exercise modes, he adds.

If you’re looking to improve your health, accurate heart-rate tracking can pick up heart strain, while blood oxygen monitoring could indicate poor lung function and possible Covid-19 infection, says Mohamed. Tracking sleep patterns and stress levels help maintain mental health.

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Best For Health Nuts Fitbit Sense “This is a little more hardcore but offers very good value for money.”

Apple Watch

Best For Glamazons Apple Watch ; Garmin Vivomove Enjoy all the functionality of a smartwatch but make it pretty.

Garmin Vivomove

FIND YOUR match Pienaar’s top picks on the market right now

DID YOU KNOW YOUR APPLE WATCH COULD DO THAT? If you’re Team Apple in the tech debate, you’re probably either planning to get an Apple Watch – or you have one already. Phile Khumalo, communications manager at iStore shares some lesser-known features.

Handwashing: Forget singing “Happy Birthday” – Apple Watch uses motion sensors, microphone and on-device machine learning to make sure you clock those 20 seconds.

Unlock your phone: No need to remove your face mask to unlock your iPhone – you can use your watch for that.

Noise app: Monitor the noise level around you and get an alert when it risks damaging your hearing.

Cycle tracking: This new app (available on WatchOS 6 and iPhones running iOS 13 or later) allows women to track and visualise their menstrual cycles discreetly.

Best For Gym Bunnies Huawei Band 6 “It has everything you could want for a very good price.”

Best For Long-distance Athletes Garmin Fenix 6s Solar; Suunto 9 Peak They have the best GPS and performance tracking and battery life for days – literally – even in full GPS mode, but may look bulky on a slim wrist.

Garmin Fenix 6s Solar

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Suunto 9 Peak

food & fitness | RECIPES

Nude Food

A gorgeous selection of ‘farm to table’ banting and keto recipes from Armand Aucamp’s latest book, Armand’s Nude Foods.

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food & fitness | RECIPES

Thai fish cakes (P) Thailand is fondly referred to as ‘The Land of Smiles’ and with this recipe, it is not difficult to grasp why the Thai people are constantly smiling – their cuisine is just so flipping delicious!

HINT: Prepare these fish cakes as smaller, bite-sized portions for a party or lunchbox. Or serve with a fried egg for breakfast

6-8 portions

INGREDIENTS

prep 15 minutes

cook 25 minutes

FISH CAKES

¼ cup coriander leaves, finely chopped

SAUCE

400g hake fillets

2 spring onions, finely chopped

2 T Thai red curry paste

Juice of 1 lime

8 green beans, finely chopped

2 large eggs

1 t fish sauce or soy sauce

½ cup almond flour

1 T soy sauce

½ t ground ginger

4 T coconut oil

½ cup coriander leaves, chopped

3 T sour cream

method

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. 2. Cut the fish fillets into small cubes.

3. T ransfer to a food processor and add the curry paste, eggs, soy sauce and coriander, then pulse together until mixed to desired consistency. I prefer a slightly chunky texture.

4. Scoop the fish mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the spring onions and green beans and mix well.

5. Sift the almond flour into the mixture and mix well.

6. Using clean hands, shape into 6-8 palm-sized cakes.

7. H eat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Fry half the cakes in the oil for approximately 5 minutes a side until golden brown. Drain the fried fish cakes on kitchen towel and repeat this step with the remaining oil and fish mixture.

8. P lace the fish cakes on a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for 5-10 minutes until completely cooked. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

9. For the sauce, add all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk together well.

10. Serve the fish cakes on a bed of greens or julienned veggies and a dollop of the sauce.

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food & fitness | RECIPES

ARMAND’S NUDE FOOD BY ARMAND AUCAMP Armand’s Nude Food consists of 50 banting- and keto-friendly dishes. Step by step, and illustrated with beautiful photographs, Armand shows you how to create delicious dishes from fresh ingredients without making your scale or budget suffer.

Armand’s Nude Food is published by Struik Lifestyle, an imprint of Penguin Random House and is available at bookstores nationwide at the recommended selling price of R345.

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food & fitness | RECIPES

Fennel and olive salad (V) 4 portions

prep 10 minutes

cook 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS 500g butternut, peel and cubed

½ t paprika

DRESSING

1 whole garlic bulb

1 fennel bulb, wafer-thinly sliced

3 T olive oil

Fennel fronds, chopped

2 garlic cloves (from the roasted bulb in salad)

Freshly milled salt and pepper

100g kalamata olives, pitted and halved

2 T pumpkin seeds 6 fresh sage leaves

¼ cup olive oil 2 T red wine vinegar ½ t wholegrain mustard

method

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. 2. P lace the butternut and garlic bulb in a roasting tin and dress with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven for 15 minutes until cooked.

3. Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over high heat, tossing for roughly 3 minutes. Set aside for later.

4. R emove the butternut from the oven and add the sage leaves. Carefully mix everything together without mashing the butternut. Season with the paprika and return to the oven and roast for a further 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.

5. P repare the dressing by taking 2 of the roasted garlic cloves from the bulb and pop them from their skins into a glass jar with a screw lid. Add the rest of the dressing ingredients, screw on the lid and shake vigorously to mix.

6. P lace the fennel slices, the chopped fronds and the butternut in a large mixing bowl. Pop all the garlic cloves from their skins and add to the bowl along with the olives. Pour roughly 1 tablespoon of the dressing over the salad and toss to mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve on a flat salad dish and garnish with the toasted pumpkin seeds.

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food & fitness | RECIPES

Butternut & red onion gratin

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food & fitness | RECIPES

Butternut & red onion gratin (V) This recipe is inspired by an episode of a cooking programme Armand did with Lindé Watson ( a Kokkedoor finalist in 2014), Spyskaart. It is incredibly simple and super-duper delicious!

4 portions

prep 15 minutes

cook 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS 1 large egg

50ml boiling water

2 red onions, peeled and sliced into rings

1 large whole butternut, peeled

1 cup fresh cream

Freshly cracked black pepper

100g parmesan, finely grated

1 feta wheel

1 cube or pot veggie stock

1 t dried oregano

100g almonds, chopped

method

1. Preheat oven to 180 °C. 2. Place the veggie stock cube or pot in small bowl and add the boiling water to dissolve.

3. U sing a very sharp knife, slice the butternut up into wheels 0.5cm thick. Once you reach the seeded area, slice the butternut in half, remove the seeds and continue slicing into half-moons.

4. P referably use a round ovenproof dish. Arrange the butternut slices to cover the base of the oven dish completely. Then place a layer of red onion rings to cover the butternut and so on, alternating between the two, until all the slices are used, or until the dish is three-quarter filled. Aim for at least 4 layers.

5. I n a large mixing bowl, whisk the veggie stock, cream, parmesan, egg and oregano together until well combined. Season with black pepper.

6. Pour the cream mixture over the butternut and onion layers.

7. Crumble the feta over the entire dish and sprinkle with the chopped almonds.

8. B ake in the oven for roughly 20 minutes or until the butternut is completely cooked through. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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FreshMushroomsSA

@freshmushroomssa

SAMFA Delicious Mushroom Recipes

www.mushroominfo.co.za

food & fitness | RECIPES

orange cake

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www.nutribullet.co.za

food & fitness | RECIPES

Orange cake (V) 8-10 portions

prep 20 minutes

cook 1½ hours rest 50 minutes

INGREDIENTS 2 whole oranges

1 t vanilla essence

2 T coconut flour

1¼ cups xylitol

2 T brandy

1 t baking powder

5 large eggs, separated

1 t freshly grated ginger

Pinch of salt

100g butter, at room temperature

1¼ cups almond flour

100g almond flakes

method

1. P lace the oranges in a large pot filled with water ensuring that the oranges are completely submerged. Bring to a boil, cover the pot and allow to boil for 1½ hours (adding water if necessary). Transfer the oranges to a bowl of ice water to cool for 20 minutes.

2. Place the xylitol in a food processor and pulse to a fine powder for 2 minutes. Set to one side.

3. Slice the cooled oranges into quarters and place, skin and all, in a food processor. Pulse until puréed.

4. Preheat the oven to 160 °C. 5. I n a large mixing bowl, whisk ½ cup of the powdered xylitol, the egg yolks and butter together with a hand whisk. Add the vanilla essence, brandy and ginger and whisk together well.

6. S ift the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder and salt into the egg mixture and fold together using a wooden spoon or spatula. Add the orange purée to the mixture and fold in until completely combined.

7. I n a separate mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites with an electric hand mixer. Add another ½ cup of xylitol, bit by bit, to the egg whites while whisking until stiff peaks form.

8. G ently fold the stiff egg whites gently into the batter, being careful not to knock too much air out of the batter. It will create a light sponge when baked.

9. Line a cake tin with baking paper. A loose-bottomed cake tin works best.

10 S poon the cake batter into the cake tin and smooth the top. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Thereafter increase the temperature to 180 °C and bake for a further 20 minutes. Insert a skewer to see if the cake is fully baked. If the skewer shows that the cake is still somewhat raw, bake for a further 10 minutes.

11 Remove the cake from the oven and allow to cool fully for 1 hour before turning out of the tin.

12 Garnish by sifting the remaining xylitol powder over the cake with a sprinkling of almond flakes.

13 Serve your low-carb orange cake with pride.

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home décor | LIVING ROOM

power neutrals

10 of the best serene, composed, and relaxing living rooms

Transform your living room into a tranquil yet light-filled cocoon that soothes and revitalises its occupants by employing multiple tones of creams and whites – or ultra-pale pastel shades – in combination with natural textures and details.

BY ROBYN ALEXANDER

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home décor | LIVING ROOM

TONE ON TONE

Situated in an apartment with a layered aesthetic that is designed for laid-back family holidays, this living room’s original period features – including traditional floor tiles and pressed ceilings – enliven a neutral palette of creams, beiges, and pale bamboo tones. An inviting L-shaped couch prompts thoughts of lazy lounging, and the walls have been plastered but left unpainted, giving them a subtly textured look.

TIP:

This effortlessly easy-going apartment is owned by Danish designer Tine Kjeldsen, and the tin-framed mirrors, couch, rattan coffee table, side table, wooden stools, brass table lamp, throws and cushions are all pieces from her eponymous homeware brand, Tine K Home (tinekhome.com).

PASTEL PERFECT

Combining a secluded location with spectacular views and layered interiors, this holiday home has a glamorous, contemporary spirit. An enclosed porch forms part of the main living space and is light-filled all year round. The French Burgundy stone floor adds texture, while the built-in couches were designed to keep a low line to draw the eye to the horizon beyond the windows. The soft green shades used for the upholstery and cushions help ensure that the space blends beautifully into its natural surroundings.

TIP:

The couches are upholstered in repurposed antique Mallorquin bed linen, hand-dyed with natural pigments by More Decor (moredesign.es) to create the seafoam and olive leaf shades. All the glass vessels and drinking glasses are made from recycled glass and were sourced from Viveca (instagram.com/viveca_spain/).

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home décor | LIVING ROOM

BLUE YONDER

A boldly conceived holiday home situated on a steep mountainside blends an urbanely contemporary sensibility with elemental ease in its interiors. In the living room, natural textures are deployed with elegant restraint: the floors, for example, are made from polished locally sourced stone that will age naturally, taking on a unique patina as the years go by. Additional natural materials – wood, rattan, woven grass, leather, and linen – add layered depth and subtle sensuality to this beautiful living space.

TIP:

To create similar natural-chic appeal, choose your shade – or shades of white paint with care; more than one might be needed; of white paint with care, then layer your interior with wood and rattan furnishings, plus decor items such as the traditional African wooden mortars and off-white ceramic pieces seen here, which serve to animate the canvas.

WHITE HEAT

The main living room in this beachside family home benefits from a doublevolume ceiling that creates a spacious feel. Painting the wooden floors, walls, and ceilings all in crisp white pushes the sense of seamless openness to the max, with stacked doors opening up to wooden exterior decks. Instead of using a traditional blue and white “beach” palette, the homeowners chose to punctuate all the white with textures of wood that range from wind-worn and weathered to honed and handcrafted.

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TIP:

The modular sofa covered in natural washed linen, the hanging lampshades and the wood and rattan occasional chairs are all by More Decor (moredesign.es) The painting is by Spanish contemporary artist Guillem Nadal, acquired from Pelaires Gallery (pelaires.com). The scatter cushions are made from collected vintage linen and raw silk fabrics and the luxurious cashmere throw is by Frette (frette.com).

home décor | LIVING ROOM

TIP:

Each piece chosen for the space gives a nod to the driftwood, sun-bleached pebbles and white sand of the wild coastline the home overlooks. The sofa, circular wooden coffee table and armchair are all from Weylandts (weylandts.co.za), while the wooden footstools-cumside tables are by LIM (lim.co.za).

UP & AWAY

A large central living space – open-plan to a dining area and kitchen – forms the heart of this holiday cottage and is slightly raised to ensure its occupants enjoy sweeping views of the nearby coastline. The room combines a casual airiness with an elegant feel, thanks to its all-white walls and high ceilings, exposed roof beams (also painted white) and sand-grey screeded floors. Likewise, the oversized sofa is ideal for holiday lounging, yet also has sleek, urbane lines.

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SENSE & SENSIBILITY

This country house teams its idyllic location with an earthy yet contemporary decor sensibility.

Of particular note is the all-natural, hand-polished, traditional lime-based plaster – tadelakt – used on the interior walls throughout, including in this secluded living area. Featuring built-in banquettes and designed for relaxing and reading, the space contrasts soft wall, floor, and upholstery tones with a textile wall hanging, cushions, and old glassware that add interest to the scheme.

TIP:

The white lime plaster used for tadelakt comes from Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains and can be subtly coloured using pure pigments. It is built up layer by layer, then polished by hand using stones – a key part of the process, as the word tadelakt means “to rub in” or “to massage”.

This gives it a handmade, slightly imperfect finish. The final step is a treatment with a natural soap solution that makes the plaster water-resistant.

TIP:

“My personal aesthetic has been very constant,” says homeowner and design consultant Shelley Street (instagram.com/ shelley.space.solutions). “I’d say my colours are ‘beach pebble’ shades rather than slavishly monochrome: white, obviously, but also charcoals, greys, chalk.” The clay bead chandelier is by Mud Studio (mudstudio.net).

SERENITY RULES The living room of an urban cottage reveals its creative owner’s passion for layering earthy elements into a serene, monochrome palette. Light floods the space thanks to large windows, white-painted concrete floors and the high, open-truss ceiling – and the eye-catching centrepiece is a beautiful contemporary chandelier made from clay beads. The wall-mounted mirror is inspired by the form of an anemone and made of coconut sticks. This adds further natural texture to the space, as does the rustic wood side table.

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home décor | LIVING ROOM

DREAM OF GREEN

Tucked away behind a stone wall in a lush garden, a discreetly private holiday home celebrates the simple life.

It includes this enclosed patio, which is an ultra-relaxed space ideal for laid-back lounging.

The pre-existing concrete beams from the old porch were reused – finished in a simple lime wash – for the ceiling, and the elegantly pale floors are made from a lime mortar base, in the family of polished cement.

TIP:

The homeowner’s multiple sofa components were reupholstered in a soft green linen by Tapicéria Tomas Riera in Manacor, Mallorca; similar scatter cushions and throws can be manufactured by Teixits Vicens (teixitsvicens.com). Find rustic wooden stools like these at vintage stores or try Tine K Home (tinekhome.com).

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Samsung Wind-Free™ AR9500T Smart Airconditioning Solutions

Even more comfort with even cleaner air, thanks to the Samsung WindfreeTM airconditioner.

Having ultimate comfort is one thing, but to be really comfortable you need to be breathing clean air. The Samsung Inverter WindFreeTM system is designed to improve your air quality by eliminating

Tri-Care Filter. All while reducing your energy usage by 77% to save money with Inverter technology

www.samsungair.co.za

home décor | LIVING ROOM

SCULPTED CHIC

In a mountainside holiday home that clings to a terraced hillside and sports spectacular sea views, the cosy living room is situated two steps lower than the dining area and features a sculptural fireplace, curvaceous built-in seating, and floors combining polished stone and micro cement – all in shades ranging from pure white to natural stone. Punctuated by traditional wooden ceiling beams and softened with a grass rug and fluffy sheepskins, it’s a study in effortless ease.

TIP:

A gleaming leather wingback armchair is a vintage piece, as is the teak-framed 1957 Boomerang easy chair

by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, which was reupholstered in Pedroso linen from T&Co (tandco.co.za).

The plaster and resin artwork above the fireplace is by Michele Mathison (michelemathison.com).

TIP:

The built-in seating and plastered fireplace are organic in style and shape, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. Find similar sheepskins, which add loads of texture and are also ideal for warming up the space in winter – at Pergarden Produkt (pergarden.com), Scandinavian Skins (scandinavianskins.com), or IKEA (ikea.com).

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INTERIOR DIALOGUE

The formal living room of a home that mixes classic elements with vintage and modern pieces features a high ceiling emphasised by off-white walls and full-length curtains in a matching shade of pale, with the entire scheme anchored by a chic Carrara marble coffee table. Inside this refined frame, carefully selected fixtures and furnishings – including an expansively luxurious yet clean-lined sofa, a vintage chandelier, and a contemporary standing lamp – make for a very sophisticated space.

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home décor | LIVING ROOM Merina coffee table, Block and Chisel R9995

Bailey mirror, Block and Chisel R6995

Tete ceramic range earthenware sculpture, Weylandts R525

Cool, Calm & Collected Make the most of your living room with these décor pieces Wild flowers scatter cover, KNUS R560 Firepit scatter, SHF R1190

XL Mother in Law’s Tongue in Queen Ilala basket, Plantify R1385

Large piped bottle vase, SHF R890

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home décor | LIVING ROOM

Samsung Premium WindfreeTM AR9500T Inverter air conditioner, samsungair from R16 899 Sinus line carpet, Weylandts R6995

Dwell floor lamp, KNUS R6000

Dragon tree – alchemy in Sinan basket, Plantify R2505

Framed Casa Blanca duo, SHF R3500

Indwe man candle holder, KNUS R499 Axia sofa, Weylandts from R22995

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local travel | STELLENBOSCH

loved up in

Stellies

As the tree-lined avenues become green again and the sun begins to shine brighter, the historical town of Stellenbosch awakens from its slumber and throws open its doors to magnificent weather and all it brings with it – perfect for a getaway from everyday life.

BY ANJE HILL

A

ll couples need to reconnect with each other every now and then. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of demanding jobs, kids, busy social calendar and and and!

Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, makes for the perfect little getaway with its historical sites, art galleries, botanical gardens and

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more than 200 premier wine estates as well as an abundance of gorgeous tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels.

We recently had the opportunity to break away, experience the beautiful history rich ‘Stellies’ and with spring in the air, here’s my suggestions for accommodation, food and activities to spoil you and your partner as we celebrate the change of season.

local travel | STELLENBOSCH

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Premier room, Evergreen Manor & Spa.

TIP Book directly through their website and receive a free breakfast.

Evergreen Manor & Spa

Where to Stay A stay at the centrally located and sophisticated Evergreen Manor & Spa will not disappoint with its luxury and warm hospitality. Built in 1904, Evergreen Manor & Spa, part of Cape Country Routes, offers its guests a range of rooms, each individually decorated with beautiful period and antique furnishings with every modern convenience. There is also ample relaxation space provided in two lounges, a sun deck next to the swimming pool, and not to forget the spacious patio overlooking the garden and pool area.

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Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens

The intimate Evergreen Spa offers a range of wellness treatments to pamper you and your partner.

You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens just around the corner or explore the centre of town a simple 4-minute walk away. Make sure to spend some time with owners and hosts, Christina and Riël Mynhardt, they really are beautiful people, who like to share the history and their journey in turning this once run-down student hovel into the splendour it is today. www.evergreenmanor.co.za

local travel | STELLENBOSCH

Left: Delicious food at Dewarenmarkt.

Top right: Oom Samie se Winkel.

Above: The Toy and Miniature Shop.

Where to Eat One is spoilt for choice when it comes to food in Stellenbosch with its wide selection of fine dining, wine farms and eateries. Just a short walk from Evergreen Manor is the De Warenmarkt, housed in a beloved 18th-century heritage building in the heart of Stellenbosch’s vibrant cultural district. De Warenmarkt offers a range of exciting flavours and experiences inspired by the Cape’s legacy as a trading post.

We tried their new food and wine paired menu delicious food and a selection of excellent local wines, what a fantastic gastronomic experience, a definite must! De Warenmarkt is a great spot for cocktails or enjoy one of the world’s most classic pairings, Bubbly and oysters at the Kaapse Vonkel MCC and Oyster Bar. www.dewarenmarkt.com

What to Do Explore the Heritage The town centre is a historical and cultural mix with its 300-year-old Dutch, Victorian and Georgian architecture dominating the outward appearance

and the many contemporary and eclectic art galleries found within. As you walk the pretty streets pay attention to the monuments that pay tribute to the town’s rich history.

Make your way to Dorp Street, which is itself a National Monument and is filled with some of the oldest, beautiful buildings in the country. The Village Museum offers insight into the town’s history and transports you back in time to those very first days and the subsequent development of the town and its people. Other museums worth a visit include the Oude Meester Brandy Museum; The Burgerhuis; Wijnland Auto Museum; The Toy & Miniature Museum; and Oom Samie se Winkel.

Fly High in the Sky Why not go for a scenic flight over Stellies, Franschoek, Paarl and surrounds experiencing a bird’s-eye view of the spectacular scenery, extraordinary vistas of mountains, vineyards, oceans and occasionally even snow from the air? Alyd Air Services, also part of Cape Country Routes, is an air charter service for both

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SPECIAL

Above: Guided e-bike Boschendal tour with the Adventure Shop.

Top right: Scenic flight over the Winelands with Alyd Air Services.

Bottom right: Picnic on the the lush green lawns at Boschendal.

business and private small aircraft charter, with an excellent record for safety and punctuality. We arranged for our take off in Juliette, a 4-seater Piper Arrow to be out of Stellenbosch Flying Club. It was spectacular seeing the beautiful winelands from above…a thrilling experience to enjoy with your partner! Scenic flights can be combined with a wine tasting at selected wine estates. www.alydair.co.za

Shop for Adventure Another unique way to enjoy the beautiful Winelands is with the Adventure Shop’s (also a member of

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The usual cost for the guided Boschendal e-bike tour is R750pp, however they are currently running a special for R450pp until the end of September 2021, so be sure to take advantage and book that offer while it lasts!

Cape Country Routes) unique guided e-bike Boschendal tour, which meanders through some of the best wine land scenery in South Africa. We cycled from Stellenbosch to Boschendal wine estate via the Idas Valley (arguably the most picturesque valley in the Winelands), over Helshoogte and through the Banhoek Conservancy, perfect for a fun outdoor date.

After our half day ride, we settled down and enjoyed a pre-ordered picnic (not included in the e-bike tour fee) on the lush green lawns at Boschendal. www.adventureshop.co.za www.boschendal.com

international travel | MOZAMBIQUE

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international travel | MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique The perfect Escape

Close your eyes.

Clear your mind.

Allow it to come into view.

You’re on a romantic sunset stroll.

Postcard-perfect islands dot the horizon.

The strain of the past year eases.

BY CELESTE STRYDOM

N

ow, let’s plan your welldeserved tropical holiday.

For nearly two years, we have shelved plans to travel. Now, as the world slowly starts to explore the

new normal, we realize just how much we have missed packing our bags. We’re stepping out slowly. Many of us still apprehensive about how to navigate these times. And so perhaps it makes sense that we should seek destinations closer to home.

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international travel | MOZAMBIQUE

Above: Luxury Balinese wooden stilted beach villa at Sentidos Beach Retreat.

Top left: Spectacular views over the ocean from the pool at Sentidos.

Left: Snorkeling with the manta rays.

Below: Sunset dhow cruise.

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international travel | MOZAMBIQUE

Supporting our neighbours

Pick Your Paradise

Mozambique has long been a favourite destination for South African travellers. And that should come as no surprise. There is no visa requirement for visits not exceeding 30 days. And the island lifestyle: swim, snorkel, seafood, sunset dhow cruises, and scuba diving bright coral reefs in clear azure waters are on the other end of a short 2-hour flight from Johannesburg to Vilanculos.

Inhambane: long beaches, whale sharks & manta rays

Covid restrictions and the reality of living through a pandemic have placed relationships under strain.

Once travel safely opens, the romantic coast between Inhambane and Vilanculos might be just the place to rest and reconnect.

Our top pick - Sentidos Beach Retreat - Vacationing among the mangroves.

A stay at Sentidos offers genuine experiences of tranquillity and enchantment, elegance and refinement, the discovery of local culture, and deep-

Love in Lockdown

Inhambane and the holiday villages of Tofo and Barra are where you’ll get a lively atmosphere and palm-lined beaches. The Barra Peninsula, with its clear waters, is home to Manta Reef - A top destination for manta ray sightings. You can even go swimming with whale sharks!

Where to stay:

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international travel | MOZAMBIQUE Left: Luxury double bungalows at Vilanculos Beach Lodge.

Bottom left: Breakfast at Cafe da Manha, Vilanculos Beach Lodge.

Bottom right: Explore the beautiful surroundings by horseback at Vilanculos Beach Lodge.

sea diving in a warm and crystal-clear ocean. www.sentidosbeachretreat.com

Vilanculos: gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago & great diving Vilanculos is a great destination in its own right: luxury lodges set right on the beach, the marine life in the nearby Bazaruto Marine Park is incredible. Horse rides along the beach, snorkelling and diving trips to the nearby islands, and restaurants with spectacular views and the freshest food.

Where to stay:

Our top pick - Vilanculos Beach Lodge - Exquisite accommodation, fine dining, rolling gardens, beach

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views and all the personal touches one could ask for.

This breath-taking location along with the amazing facilities the lodge has on offer is sure to make a memorable stay. www.vilanculosbeachlodge.com

Bazaruto Archipelago: tropical islands & luxurious lodges Six beautiful islands set in Africa’s biggest marine reserve. Bazaruto, Benguerra, Mangarugue, Santa Carolina (Paradise Island), and Pansy Shell Island.

The island beaches are mostly empty, and snorkelling, diving, and game fishing are worldrenowned. The perfect choice for relaxing with your partner.

Available at Clicks stores, Dis-Chem- & Medicare pharmacies, independent stockists, Takealot.com & www.betterforyou.co.za CONTACT US ON: 021 913 3962 | Distributed by FMCG1 Sales | www.skinnytan.co.za

@SkinnyTanSA

international travel | MOZAMBIQUE SCHEDULED FLIGHTS Vilanculos International Airport. Fly from Maputo, Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Kruger International for the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and Inhambane Province. (Flights out of Vilanculos to Inhambane are just 40 minutes long, but are only scheduled twice weekly.) Inhambane International Airport. Fly from Johannesburg, with one-stop via Maputo.

Total travel time: 5h30

SHUTTLE/CHARTER FLIGHTS Private and scheduled charters are easily arranged from either Johannesburg or Mbombela to various destinations within Mozambique. Most island resorts are reached by helicopter, shuttle flights, and road transfers. A few of the lodges are only accessible by boat.

WEATHER Rainy Season: November-April Average summer temperatures: 21 to 31 degrees Average winter temperatures: 15 to 26 degrees

Top: Clube Naval pool at Anantara Bazaruto resort overlooking the ocean.

Above: Bazaruto’s spectacularly high sand dunes tempt the more adventurous to clamber up the towering works of wind blown art and board back down at exhilarating speed.

Left: Spiced lobster with Chorizo rice.

Both Benguerra and Bazaruto islands are hassle-free flights from Kruger National Park.

Where to stay:

Our top pick - Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort – A stay in the luxury beach villas with their large decking areas overlooking tropical white sand and turquoise water is sure to fulfil your escapist dreams. The resort also offer world class diving, sailing, snorkelling and deep-sea fishing, as well as a private airstrip and helipad, super convenient. www.anantara.com

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CURRENCY The local currency is the Metical, but the South African Rand and US Dollar are widely accepted.

SAFETY Despite the militant conflict in the north, tourism is still safe and open in areas including Maputo, Inhambane, Ponta d’Ouro, and Vilanculos.

COVID PROTOCOLS Travelers need to produce a negative PCR based Covid-19 test result. The tests need to be taken 72 hours before your trip. Once at the destination, the wearing of masks and social distancing are mandatory.

Travellers should consult airline and destination country regulations at their time of travel.

An Indian Ocean Paradise awaits you.

Wide, isolated beaches are your sanctuary. Truly, Mozambique is the perfect escape for lockdown lovers!

parenthood | DADDY DIARIES

Losing my Marbles

BY ALASDAIR CUNNINGHAM

I

didn’t even know how to spell the confounded thing.

Poppet? Poppat? Pop-It? All I knew was that Oliver Twist and the misty-eyed gang were staring at me over the top of my Sunday newspaper, asking me to take them to the shop so that they could buy them. I ruffled the papers in their general direction, hoping they’d go away, but alas, it only made the eyes plead harder, and their whines increase in pitch.

They informed me that everyone at school had one and that they were just incredible, and their young lives would be shattered by not having one. “It’s your pocket money,” I said, “far be it me to tell you how to spend it.”

So off we went in search of the ever-elusive pop-thingy. We searched high and low, but alas, there were none to be had. Then I had the bright idea of hitting the local flea market to see if the vendors still had stock, and lo and behold, they did, but at double the price. To my aged, curmudgeonly eye, they looked like brightly coloured ice-cube trays on one side with bubbles on the other that you ‘popped’. Yup, that’s what I thought.

“Is that it?” I asked once we were back in the car and heading home.

“Is that all it does? You just pop it from one side to another?” The silence in the back of the car was deafening as their tiny fingers danced over these bits of highlypriced rubber as if they were skilled

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typists on a deadline. I just shook my head and wondered, is this where we are heading? To top it off, they didn’t even make a pop sound! It didn’t look remotely challenging, and I could almost begin to see brains dripping out from their young, wax-filled ears. When I was their age, and if you were lucky, the brightly coloured must-have accessory of the day was a Rubik’s Cube which was a lot harder than the object with which they are tinkering; I remember we even had books to teach you how to do it. I think we all secretly nursed hopes of being a World Champion until we saw snippets of kids our age doing the cube in mere nanoseconds, then we chucked them in the cupboard to gather dust as we went off to collect more scabs on our knees from falling off our bikes.

But I digress. As a matter of interest, I priced the trusty cubes of yore and was shocked to find that two would run you nearly a thousand Rand!

Poppit things it is then I thought, maybe they can do it while hopping on one leg, behind their backs, blindfolded? Just something to up the ante and make it seem less brainless. But it was the first term, and last year had been hard on them, so I cut them a little slack. I needn’t have worried; the second term made up for it in spades.

Overnight marbles became the big-ticket item that every boy needed, reflected by their dearth on the shelves. I found some, eventually, and pricewise you got

far more for your money than the Poppit thingy. I bought what is referred to as ‘milkies’ or ‘Milky Ways’ because they are pale white, with wisps of colour, and one milkie gets you about four to six junkies, depending on who is making the trade. For all you old-timers out there, junkies are what we would just call marbles, glass balls filled with a brightly coloured spiral virtually worthless on the open market of primary school.

It’s more about weight with those, rather than individuality.

Suddenly, children who could barely tie a shoelace, or sling a sentence together, became serious market traders trading in junkies, milkies, kongs, gongs, and the legendary gom that’s supposedly a marble the size of a tennis ball. I think he doesn’t exist and is only ever seen by a friend of a friend’s cousin’s aunt—a bit like sasquatch.

The kids had created their own market economy, with their own sets of values and names for the marbles that were as intricate and confusing as the real deal on the New York Stock Exchange floor.

Tiger’s Eye, Frost Spiral, Swampie, Blue Beast, Greenie, Sky, Honey Bee, Chilli Peppers or Lava was just a fraction of the lexicon used. Also, each one has a fluctuating value attached to it that is as fickle as any crypto-currency you can name. A Lava today may not be worth the four Swamps you paid for it yesterday, and you’d better hope your Honey Bee holds its

parenthood | DADDY DIARIES

worth until you can trade for that PurpleNurple you’ve had your eye on for the longest time.

Every day after school, you could hear a thousand marbles rattling around a thousand pencil cases as the kids explained to their parents what they had traded for that day. Some little dudes had buckets meant for the beach to carry their loot around. The funniest thing was that not one single, solitary boy even played marbles to get them.

No one drew a little circle in the dirt and played for them; everything, and I mean, everything, was traded for by the boys. They were an army of tiny, slicked-backed hair Gordon Geckos from the movie Wall Street, espousing that,” Greed, is good.”

Well, at least it taught them mathematics, is what I say.

Then came Pokemon. Pokemon is a card game played with collectable cards that, thanks to the Pandemic, are now worth an absolute fortune. Some stores in

America refuse to stock them as they have become the targets of armed robberies and break-ins.

Can you believe it? People are getting hurt over Pokemon cards.

That’s where I drew the line. If they took cards to school to trade, it would be standard cards only, nothing fancy. They might trade in marbles, but this was at another level entirely with real-world consequences, and I didn’t want

my less than street-savvy youngsters getting taken to the cleaners by some card-sharks.

Besides, if anyone is going to con them out of few cards worth a thousand dollars or so, it’s going to be me!

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essentials | BOOKS

books

Murder mystery, a legacy of love with delicious contemporary Italian dishes and an exploration of inventors, bright minds and other science Heroes of South Africa featured in the best new reads this season.

Sunflower Sisters Martha Hall Kelly

Such a Quiet Place Megan Miranda

Welcome to Hollow’s Edge, a picture-perfect neighbourhood where everyone has each other’s backs. At least, that’s how it used to be, until the night Brandon and Fiona Truett were found dead. Two years ago, branded a grifter, thief and sociopath by her friends and neighbours, Ruby Fletcher was convicted of murdering the Truetts.

Now, freed by mistrial, Ruby has returned to Hollow’s Edge. Her return sends shock waves through the community, terrified residents turn on each other, and it soon becomes clear that not everyone was honest about the night the Truetts died. When Harper begins to receive threatening, anonymous notes, she realises she has to uncover the truth before someone else gets hurt.

Trade paperback | R265 | Atlantic Books

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Georgeanne “Georgey” Woolsey isn’t meant for the world of lavish parties and demure attitudes of women of her stature. So when the war ignites the nation, she follows her passion for nursing during a time when doctors considered women a bother on the battlefront. In proving them wrong, she and her sister Eliza venture from New York to Washington D.C., to Gettysberg and witness the unparalleled horrors of slavery as they become involved in the war effort.

In the South, Jemma is enslaved on the Peeler Plantation in Maryland, where she lives with her mother and father. Her sister, Patience, is enslaved on the plantation next door and both live in fear of LeBaron, an abusive overseer who tracks their every move. When Jemma is sold by the cruel plantation mistress Anne-May at the same time the union army comes through, she sees a chance to finally escape – but only by abandoning the family she loves.

Trade paperback | R325 | Random House US

Our Italian Legacy of Love

Chiara Viljoen, Ryan Viljoen and Luciana Treccani What do you get when you add a little Italian, a little South African and a whole lot of love? A heritage of classic yet contemporary dishes from the Café del Sol family kitchen.

Basking in Italian and South African heritage, this family knows how to put their heart and soul into the most scrumptious food for their guests, and now you the reader. From colazione (breakfast) and antipasto (appetisers), through primo (pasta and risotto) and secondo (main courses), to desserts and cocktails…. we challenge you to page through this book without your appetite roaring to life!Create your own legacy of love with these contemporary Italian recipes.Buon appetitito!

Hardcover | R400 | Struik Lifestyle

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essentials | BOOKS

Dog Diaries: Dinosaur Disaster!

Steven Butler, James Patterson

I have something very IM-PAW-TANT to tell you. I was with my mutt mates in the dog park when we saw something MONSTROUS through the trees…

I recognised it straight away. It was a huge DINO-ROAR! Now, I know what you’re thinking – dino-roars don’t exist anymore, right? WRONG. I spotted one in the flesh, well in the bone…..And it smelt tailwaggingly tasty! I followed it’s a sniff-a-licious scent to the BIGGEST building I’ve ever seen, and the smells coming from inside were the most dusty, mouldy, oldy, dirt-lectable whiffs I’ve ever wrapped my snout around. I don’t know what the humongous building is, but what I do know is that I just HAVE to get inside.

Paperback | R105 | Random House UK

6-9

Inventors, Bright Minds and Other Science Heroes of South Africa Engela Duvenhage

In this book you will read all about inventors, bright minds and other brilliant science heroes of South Africa.

You’ll read the stories of people who made medical breakthroughs, about people who love animals and plants and about people who try to understand the secrets of the sky.

This is a truly South African book that will inspire all readers to question, explore, discover and to create.

Paperback | R330 | Penguin

6-9

Instructions for Dancing Nicola Yoon

Evie is disillusioned about love ever since her dad left her mom for another woman – even throwing out her beloved romance novel collection. When given a copy of a book called Instructions for Dancing, she follows a note inside to a dilapidated dance studio, and discovers she has a strange and unwelcome gift. When a couple kisses in front of her, she sees their whole relationship play out, from the moment they first catch each other’s eye to the last bitter moments of their break-up. For Evie, it confirms everything she thinks she knows about love - that it doesn’t last. But at the dance studio she meets X - tall, dreadlocked, fascinating - and they start to learn to dance, together…

Paperback | R190 | Puffin

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The Children

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