Natalie Barratt didn’t need to set a resolution to get fit this year, she has been active her entire life. At 14 she started weight training and also enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, dance and martial arts. She started her personal training courses while still in high school and is now a certified personal trainer. She is also working towards her Kinesology degree.

I’ve never worked with a personal trainer before but after talking to Natalie I realized how important it is to consult with a personal trainer before beginning to exercise. Personal trainers can help you avoid common mistakes such as doing too much too soon which can lead to injuries. They also teach the proper form, technique and breathing for exercises to reduce injuries and increase their effectiveness.

Personal trainers can also help you stay motivated by providing accountability. They can help you set realistic, specific, time-based goals. Too often our New Year’s Resolutions are vague promises to get in shape and lose weight. A personal trainer will help you set measureable goals so you have something to work towards.

How can you find the right trainer?

Natalie recommends making sure the person is a certified personal trainer first. There are different certifications and you may want someone with a 3^rd Age certification if you’re older or someone with a sports background if you are an athlete.

After that you should make sure their availability matches your schedule. People may be more comfortable working with someone their own gender or age. Most trainers will offer an initial consultation to make sure you are compatible.

What’s the process to Personal training?

When you start you will meet to get a fitness and lifestyle assessment. After evaluating your current fitness level and your time availability you will discuss and set realistic goals. Then you will go through the training plan and make sure you know how perform the exercise correctly. After that you can meet with the trainer as often as you’d like.  Some people want to have a personal trainer with them every workout but other people prefer to meet every few weeks to re-evaluate and change their fitness plan.

What are some basic rules for beginners.

You should start slow and work your way up. Aim to work-out 2-3 times a week at the beginning and make sure to drink enough water. You should always give your muscles at least 24-48 hours in between weight training. Always see a doctor if you are new to exercise or are over 45. If you are unsure how to use some of the equipment ask someone to help you to learn to use it properly.

What type of goals or resolutions should people set?

People should make SMART goals

S – Specific

M- Measurable

A- Achievable and Attainable

R- Realistic

T- Time Based and Time Bound

By setting these types of goals you have something specific to work towards and you won’t get frustrated by unrealistic expectations. Instead of a goal to “get fit” make a SMART goal to “Go the gym 3 times a week in order to lose 15lbs by June 1^st.

Are free weights or weight machines better?

Much of personal training is person specific and the equipment you use will depend on a number of factors.

Machines are great for beginners and people with balance issues. Body builders also use them to target specific muscles.

Free weights work more muscles at the same time. They are also more versatile and can be used in a variety of settings and provide more functional based work-outs.

If someone wants to work out at home what equipment should they have?

It is possible to work out without any equipment by using your body weight but in general the following items can be used to provide a varied work-out.

• Yoga Mat
• Big Exercise Ball
• Light dumbbells
• Kettlebells
• Skipping ropes

A personal trainer can provide a training program that can be done in your house or you can use a fitness DVD or other training program.

Natalie Barratt
Profile Personal Training
Ring: 604.316.7384

As we get older, problems ranging from age spots and deep wrinkles to rosacea and loss of elasticity become more apparent.  Before we even get to the point of age related concerns, men, women and teens may be experiencing problems with acne, excessive sweating or the need for hair removal.

This is not to say or suggest that you stop going to the spa; I definitely won’t. But if you are one of the many people out there who really needs to see results beyond what a spa can provide for you, Fraser Valley Pulse has some great options for you.

Before I get any further, would it be fair to say that you when you hear of a company that offers cosmetic and/or laser treatments, that your mind naturally wonders to pictures of celebrities who have had a variety of work done?  Immense botox and scary face lifts are just a few of the bad pictures that come to mind.  In reality, many common problems are treated at companies like these and the great thing is that everyday people like you and I are able to get help in a safe and effective way.

Many cosmetic and laser treatment centers use physician or pharmaceutical grade skincare products, which means that they contain the highest level of active ingredients in them without actually requiring a prescription from a doctor.   Use of these products, along with customized treatments, will definitely help achieve results.

Having never set foot inside a treatment centre that wasn’t a spa, I was surprised that MD Cosmetic & Laser Clinic in Abbotsford was so warm and inviting.  MD has been in business for almost 10 years and not only provides innovative non-surgical aesthetic procedures and treatments, but also acts as a training site for other physicians and their staff.  One of the many great things about MD is that they offer a free consultation to discuss your unique concerns.

I went to MD to have the SilkPeel Dermalinfusion treatment and was intrigued to learn that while the treatment itself is standard, the exfoliation and re-introduction of moisture into the skin is customized to your skin’s needs, as are all other treatments at MD.  During the procedure, I experienced mild discomfort, but having the process explained to me put me at ease.  I felt like my skin was glowing and gorgeous for not just weeks, but months after.

Rejuva Medispa & Laser is relatively new on the scene in Langley after recently passing their 1 year anniversary, but their small team of physicians and certified aestheticians have a combined wealth of experience.  Their approach is unique in that they care about educating their clients, not just treating them.  Building relationships is important to the staff at Rejuva, privacy is a priority and their facility is far from cold or clinical.  You can expect to be evaluated and treated based on your specific concerns, your lifestyle, your personal level of comfort and yes, even your budget.    If you’re looking for a unique way to spend time with your friends or family, consider booking a private skincare, makeup or even filler party at Rejuva.

Both of these companies also carry Glo Minerals Makeup for purchase or for a makeup application after a treatment.

After visiting MD or Rejuva, you can leave feeling confident that you have taken positive steps to long term results.  And don’t worry men, you are more than welcome too!   Treatments for your specific and manly needs, from razor burn to that unwanted bodily hair, are readily available.

MD Cosmetic & Laser Clinic
www.mdcosmetic.ca
107-2051 McCallum Road, Abbotsford
Ring: 604.557.7777

Rejuva Medispa & Laser
www.rejuva.ca
Unit B1A, 20202 66th Avenue, Langley
Ring: 604.539.5555

Despite my previous exposure to a variety of exercise options, there is one type of exercise that has piqued my interest and left me wondering for a while.  I’ll admit it though; I’ve been a little scared to try, mainly because of the machine that I call “the torture device”, otherwise known as the Pilates Reformer or Apparatus machine.  It’s a contraption that you may have seen before, but let’s face it, it doesn’t look like a very enjoyable time.

Let’s first clarify the difference between Pilates and yoga, since many people seem to interchange the two words and while there are some similarities in the benefits of each, they are, in fact, very different  from each other.  There are two types of Pilates, one type using equipment and apparatus and the other simply uses a mat.  Chances are that you are most familiar with Pilates on a mat.

The main focus of Pilates is to improve and correct postural imbalances.   When your body can move with ease, it can develop long and lean muscles, gain core strength, improve posture and balance.   Not only is this workout great for the everyday person, but it is a safe form of exercise for those who have experienced injuries in the past.

Finding that balance within is definitely part of the challenge, which I learned firsthand at a Pilates Reformer class at Evolution Studios in Langley.  I realized that slowing down a movement and being aware of your body can have just as much of an impact as any other workout.   Janet, the Owner and a Certified Pilates Instructor, was wonderful at explaining the movements and helping me incorporate the principles of placement and breathing.  All in all, a delightful challenge that left me a little sweaty and slightly sore, in the best way possible.

Evolution Studios offers Pilates Reformer and mat classes, as well as personal training and drop-in yoga classes (hot, flow, hatha).  In their pre-registered Pilates classes, you are sure to receive personal attention since they limit the class size to a maximum number of people.

Some of the other studios in the Fraser Valley offering both apparatus and mat Pilates classes are Pilates For Everybody Wellness Studio, located on the Aldergrove/Abbotsford border and Terpsicore, located in Abbotsford.

Trying any new routine can be scary, and when the going gets tough, it’s easy to skip one class and then another.  Keep yourself accountable by paying for a class for a set period of time; I can also attest to the fact that the buddy system is a good one.  Being accountable to someone else to show up and to challenge each other to keep going is a great way to stick to a routine, old or new.

Torture yourself, whoops, I mean, challenge yourself with something new such as Pilates. Your body will definitely thank you!

Q. How should people prepare themselves for the summer to fall transition? Should they ease into the fall or go full force?

A. It really depends of the type of person you are. As a coach, the approach I use is tailored to the individual. Sometimes the end of summer is a time of preparation and then almost hibernating for winter.

Q. If you have kids getting set for the school year and you need to figure out how to juggle that with work, that would be first on the agenda. There are many people who love fall and hit their stride this time of year. They may love the cooler temperatures and some additionally look forward to the winter where they can be in their element.

A. Either way the idea is to take stock of the type you are and then plan accordingly. If you are the type of person who likes to chip away at things, easing in is the way to go. If you find you lose momentum quickly, going full force followed by times of rest may be your best bet.

Q. Should you try to establish a new and ambitious routine right away or see how it goes and then make a realistic routine?

A. Again, it depends on the person. Some people don’t work well with routine at all. Their routine may be changing their routine all the time to make life and work more interesting.

There is no one right way. As far as setting a routine, it needs to be challenging yet doable. It you set your sights too high, you may fail and then get discouraged. Too low and there is no growth. One of the biggest factors in implementing a new routine is to have accountability. Whether it be a coach, a friend or partner. You need someone who will encourage, support and help you stay on track.

Q. Should it be a goal to schedule free time in every day?

A. I don’t know about free time, but “me” time is important. Me time is a time to be present, free of worry and stress even if only for a few minutes.  Now more than ever self care is vital. You don’t necessarily need an hour of free time but a period where you can distress and relax.

Q. What are 3 things every business owner should re-evaluate in the fall?

A. It is a good idea to have a look at your goals/dreams quarterly in business and/or in your personal life.

• Are you on track?
  • If so what went right? If not what do you need to attend to?
• Is what I am doing bringing me happiness?
• Am I doing what I am meant to be doing?

Jennifer Priest
www.jenniferpriest.com
Ring: 604-619-6437

Q. How can you tell if your pet is over-heated and what is the best way to keep them cool?

A. Panting is your first clue that your pet is over-heating! Some breeds like pugs, boston terriers and french bulldogs cannot tolerate heat at all. It can actually be fatal!

To keep your pets cool ensure they have access to water and shade during hot summer days. Make sure they don’t over-exert themselves, even in the ocean or lake. They can get heat stroke just like humans.

When taking your pet in the car, be aware of the dangers of heat because the temperature inside a parked car increases rapidly to deadly levels, within just 5 minutes!

It may also be necessary to use sunscreen if your dog’s coat is light in color. Dogs can become sunburned on their noses, ears and other pink areas. You can use human sunscreen products; choose one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. It’s okay if your dog licks the sunscreen, because most are not toxic; however, you should avoid sunscreens that contain zinc or PABA. You can also dress your thin-coated dog in a t-shirt and hat to prevent sunburn.

by malias

Q. How do I know how much water my pet should be drinking?

A. It would all depend on what your pet eats and how much activity he is doing.

On average most dogs need about 30 ml per pound of weight in the summer if they eat kibble. Dogs that eat canned, home-cooked or raw food require less. Dogs that are active require more hydration.

Q. Is it normal for pets to eat less in the summer?

A. If your pet is too hot, they can lose interest in eating. Ensure that he is not over heated and comfortable. Check that any food has not been left out too long to spoil in the heat, and make sure he’s had enough to drink. If he doesn’t eat for more than a day, then a call to your veterinarian may be in order!

Q. What are some of your favorite dog parks in the Fraser Valley?

A. I have 2 French bulldogs, one with a back problem, so I like them to play with other small dogs only to avoid injury. There is a great new dog park in Clayton Park area in Surrey. It has an all dog area as well as a small dog only area!

Tynehead Park in Surrey has a great trail system and an off leash area, as well as Campbell Valley in Langley.

This is a great website that lists all the dog parks in your area. http://pets.ca/dogparks/bc.htm

by joysaphine

Q. Do you know of any pet-friendly beaches or lakes in the Fraser Valley?

A. Yes, there are a few:

• Jones Lake is beautiful and has no posted restrictions.

• Buntzen Lake is dog friendly.

• Some people go to Hatzic or Davis lakes near Mission, and Pitt Lake too.

• You can always go for a walk on the dykes that run from Pitt Meadows to Maple Ridge and doggies can swim in the Pitt River that runs alongside the dyke.

Q. Can you recommend any other summer activities to do with your pets?

A. Boating (with a lifejacket) is great fun for many dogs, as well as lounging in a kiddy pool in your back yard for the less adventuresome.

Leeloo and Gamble (my Frenchies) love the floating toys in their pool!

Camping, hiking and walking through the local farmers markets are a great way to share the summer with your furry friends.

Thanks for the great tips, Lisa!

Elemental Canine
www.elementalcanine.com
Unit #3 – 5723 176 Street, Cloverdale
Ring: 604.575.2614

Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean that we love you any less.  It just means that we’d like to stage a mild intervention on behalf of your feet.  Think about it for a minute.  Your feet support all those muscles you carry around each day, they take you to and from your job, they run you around the sports field and they are the first things you kick up when you’ve got a cold beverage in hand.  Don’t you think they deserve a little extra attention?

Now I know that the majority of guys will never admit in public to enjoying a spa treatment that they’ve had, aside from getting a basic massage, and that’s okay.  What I’ve got are a few suggestions for ways you can take care of your feet at home in private.  And if you should you find yourself in the very “unlucky” situation of having to go to a spa for a treatment, we have some great places for you to check out.

by the trial

I once heard the results of a survey that said that the majority of people polled did not actually wash their feet in the shower, assuming that because their feet were already in water, they would get cleaned without any further effort.   I don’t know how clean your feet do or don’t get just from being in water, but a little extra soap probably won’t hurt.

Take your shower as the first opportunity to treat your feet and after letting them soak for a few minutes in the water, you can use what’s called a pumice stone stick to remove dead skin, rough patches and calluses.  Not only will this eliminate dead skin that may cause an odor, it will help to prevent the build-up of further calluses.

When you’ve gotten out of the shower, it’s a great time to trim those toenails because the nail should be soft and fairly easy to cut.  Be sure to cut your nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails, which happens when the side or corners of your toenails grow down into the skin.

Foot and calf massages are often part of a pedicure at a spa and while I don’t imagine that you will give yourself an intense foot massage after you shower, you can quickly apply a lotion, such as the Body Shop’s Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion for a shot of moisture and cooling sensation, all in one.

If you do feel inclined to venture to a spa, you can rest assured that no nail polish will ever be used on you, unless you ask for it.  Some treatment rooms are communal while others are not, so don’t be afraid to inquire prior to booking an appointment if privacy is a concern.

Mackie Naturals in Mission provides the His Bliss Pedicure for 45 minutes at a cost of $58.  This pedicure includes extra attention to callus removal including foot filing and a clean-up of the nails and toes, as well as the usual care.

The Wild Orange Spa in Abbotsford offers The Men’s Sports Pedicure for 55 minutes at a cost of $65.  Sounds manly, doesn’t it?  Not only do they have specific treatments for men, but they have a men’s lounge area and steam room to enjoy and use prior to and after any treatments you receive.

If you want a spa experience, but would prefer to enjoy it in the comfort of your own home, there are many mobile spa services now available, including Simply Indulge.  They offer a Pure Bliss Pedicure for 45 minutes at a cost of $50.

Now there is no excuse not to make your feet, and those who see them, happy this summer.

Envy Sunless Mobile Tanning is a Fraser Valley company that will travel to you to provide you with the airbrush service.  Airbrush tanning has been around for quite some time, but the mobile service is a convenient way for customers to experience the treatment in the comfort of their own home at a time that works best for them.

Believe me, this is not just a service for fitness competitors or contestants on Dancing with the Stars.  For only $45, this is a fantastic way to get glowing for any special occasion, photo session, or promotional event and could quickly become a new alternative for ‘fake bake’ addicts.  You don’t have to worry about visible tan lines and you can be happy knowing that you’re not damaging your skin.

Ashley of Envy Sunless Mobile Tanning stopped by my place with her pop-up tent and airbrush gun to show me what the world of airbrush tanning is all about.  The product used in the spray gun contains dihydroxyacetone or DHA, which can often be found in other sunless tanning products.  It is a color additive that darkens the skin by reacting with the amino acids in your skin’s surface, which means that there is no color chart to choose a shade from before you begin.

As far as your clothes go (or lack thereof) during the process, your comfort level is of utmost importance.  A bathing suit or underwear is definitely okay, as are shorts or a sleeveless top if you are just getting a small area done or don’t want to show more skin.  The spray won’t discolor most clothing and can be washed out easily.

You’ll be hopping into a three-sided pop-up tent, which can be set up in a bathroom, your kitchen or even your backyard.  Because of the way a spray gun works, I would advise that the room be well ventilated and that you protect your flooring with a towel or blanket that can be washed.

Being sprayed feels kind of chilly, but it’s a quick process that is extremely tolerable.   You’ll have to rotate as directed, but this will help to give you a nice and even application.  As often as possible, you should keep your mouth closed and/or hold your breath so that you are not inadvertently inhaling any product.

In the same way that you would build a “base tan” on your skin from a tanning bed, you can build the color of your spray tan with re-applications.  The initial color will last 7 – 10 days depending on your post application care.  Envy Sunless Mobile Tanning also carries a line of 100% natural ingredient products from South Seas that includes a tan extender and body polish, to name a few.  The yummy citrus based fragrances leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated.

There’s one last thing to note about sunless tanning.  There is NO sun protection factor (SPF) in the product being applied to your skin, so common sense rules of wearing a minimum of SPF15 anytime you are outside is strongly recommended.

Don’t wait until you vacation in Fiji to look like a bronzed beauty.  Contact Envy Sunless Mobile Tanning to book an appointment and be sure to mention Fraser Valley Pulse to receive 10% off your first treatment or book a tanning party of 3 or more people and the host/hostess tans for FREE!!   Just don’t blame me when you find yourself admiring your own reflection each time you pass a mirror.

Envy Sunless Mobile Tanning
www.envysunlessmobiletanning.com

What are some realistic weight loss and fitness goals that can be achieved in the next six weeks, before the start of summer?

Go all in! If you have waited to get summer ready until the last 6 weeks before the warm weather arrives, you might as well jump in with both feet. Work out hard for the next 6 weeks and you will lose significant inches, fat and create tone and strength.  You will feel like a million bucks.   I have seen people lose 2 dress sizes in 6 weeks! It can be enough time to change significantly.

What is the minimum recommended time to spend each week exercising?

Staying with the idea of our looming 6 week deadline here is my suggestion, a couple times a year it is safe to go all in and just see what you are made of.

My suggestion for you is to:

• Work out 5 or 6 days a week
• Work out at the top of your intensity for 40-60 minutes.
• Better yet, join a 6 week professionally led boot camp or some other fitness challenge.

But once your 6 weeks is up, go back to a more moderate kind of schedule to give your body a much deserved break. You won’t over train your muscles if you give them 24 hours of rest before working them again. After the 6 weeks of intense training, ease up and let yourself enjoy the summer without such a grueling schedule.

Do people need to follow a standard program of cardio and weights or can they achieve similar results through activities like pilates or sports?

I say choose like a child and commit like an adult. Pick activities like a child, whatever excites or intrigues you. You might not be great at it at the beginning but that is no reason to give up!

You will get the best results doing something you enjoy, for the simple reason that you will never miss a session.

What are some strategies for people struggling to motivate themselves to work-out on a consistent basis?

This is the million dollar question. A couple of die-hard strategies we use at Equilibria:

1) Buddy up- It’s harder to disappoint a friend than yourself.
2) Pay for a class/trainer – When money is involved we are more likely to show up!
3) Define your goals down to the last detail – then be open to whatever else happens along the way.
4) Write out a really specific plan for achieving your goals  -  then let it change as it needs.
5) Write down all of your excuses you usually use to not workout and come up with solutions to them before they occur.

I always say that motivation is an inside job, meaning we need to change all of the mean, self sabotaging thoughts we have about ourselves before any real success can be obtained. Start paying attention to your thoughts and see what you notice.  It may become quite clear why you have had trouble sticking to goals in the past.

What are some of the benefits to working with a Personal Trainer?

Fitness is all we do. We research, study, eat, breathe and live fitness and health. So you are hiring a professional that is dedicated to changing your life.  Your trainer will be your champion, your source of motivation and whatever else you need us to be for you to succeed.

Working with a Personal Trainer is a time for you to show you care about your life, that you are taking a stand against excuses and putting in the work to change your body for the better. We are fitness professionals who have learned the best most effective ways to motivate, train and inspire you to your best.

Equilibria Personal Training and Pilates
www.equilibriatraining.com
www.equilibriapilates.com
305 – 20238 Fraser Hwy, Langley BC
Ring: 778.278.0505

Tips for safe stretching:

• Move slowly & smoothly.
• Take nice deep breaths throughout – be conscious of not holding your breath.
• You should be able to feel a stretch, but if you feel pain, stop immediately!
• Hold all stretches for 30 seconds each, or longer, repeating a minimum of two times.
• If the stretch is repetitive work with your breath, moving on the inhale and the exhale.
• If you have a neck or back injury please consult your doctor before starting any exercise program or stretch routine.

4 Easy Stretches You Can Do At Work

#1- Shoulder Rolls

Purpose: To relax and warm-up the shoulder muscles, reduce shoulder stiffness and to improve posture.

1.)    Start standing up nice and tall, feet hip width apart, eyes facing forward

2.)    Inhale shoulders up towards the ears

3.)    Exhale shoulders backwards in a circular motion

4.)    Repeat steps 2 & 3 a minimum of 5 times

5.)    Change direction and roll shoulders forward 5 more times

#2- Chest Expansion with forward fold

Purpose: To stretch the shoulders, chest muscles, hamstrings and back

1.)    Start standing up nice and tall, feet hip width apart, eyes facing forward

2.)    Inhale and reach back behind the body, palms facing each other, imaging you are holding a giant beach ball behind your back

3.)    Holding the pose inhale & exhale into the open chest, squeezing shoulder blades together

4.)    Clasp hands together behind back if possible (or use a strap or towel to hold hands together)

5.)    Bending the knees slightly, hinge at the hips and relax the top of the head towards the floor

6.)    Pushing the hands up towards the ceiling & relaxing the top of the head towards the floor, take a few more deep breaths

7.)    Release the arms towards the floor

8.)    Slowly starting at the base of the back roll up towards the ceiling, vertebrae by vertebrae

9.)    Inhaling the top of the head up towards the ceiling, at standing take a few more deep breaths

#3- Gentle Spinal Twist

Purpose: For stretching, lengthening and opening through the middle & upper back. This will also increase blood flow through the spinal cord creating a healthier back.

1.)    From standing, walk the legs open to shoulder width apart or slightly wider, with knees and toes pointed out towards the side at approximately a 45 degree angle.

2.)    Bring your arms out from the sides of your body slightly

3.)    Keeping your belly button pointing forwards gently swing the arms from side to side

4.)    Inhaling the crown of the head up towards the ceiling while rotating through the middle & upper back

5.)    Repeat 8 to 10 times

#4- Gentle Hip Circles

Purpose: For stretching, lengthening and opening through the hips and lower back

1.)    From standing, walk the legs open to shoulder width apart or slightly wider, with knees and toes pointed out towards the side at approximately a 45 degree angle

2.)    Bringing your hands to your hips

3.)    Taking nice deep breaths draw nice big circles with your hips in one direction, once your hips feel open change directions and go the opposite way

4.)    For fun you can also draw figure 8’s with your hips in both directions

Gaylene runs Grounding Fitness, which offers Virtual Yoga Training, Yoga Workshops and Personal Training.

Frustrated by the lack of affordable organic skin care choices, she researched the process of making skin care herself.  After reading books, attending workshops and countless trials she developed her own line.  While she originally developed the creams for her own family, friends began asking for these gentle, natural products.  Realizing she had created a business without even knowing it, she officially launched her line of chemical free skin care, Golden Naturals Skin Care, in 2008.

When I met Marinella, the first thing I noticed was her flawless skin – she’s a walking testimonial for her products.  I interviewed her to get some pointers on skin care and to learn how to avoid dry irritated skin this winter.

Like many of you, I suffer from extremely dry skin during the winter.  Marinella advises we take extra special care of our skin in winter months since a combination of dry indoor heating, cold outdoor temperatures and our need for comfort food wreaks havoc on our skin. Our hands and faces get the most exposure so we need to pay the most attention to exfoliating and moisturizing these parts.  Marinella recommends cleansing your face, following with a toner and then moisturizing each morning and night. You should exfoliate with a scrub two to three times a week depending on your skin sensitivity and use a mask once or twice a month.

Hands get especially dry during the flu season because we are constantly washing our hands and using hand sanitizer which robs our hands of moisture.  Marinella offers a simple tip to keeping hands soft, “Remove jewelry before washing.  Soap can get stuck to the rings and dry out hands even more.”  Moisturize your hands after every wash and before bed to keep your hands from drying out.”

I have to admit, I had never considered the importance of chemical-free skin care before. We all know the importance of eating healthy, fresh food that is free of preservatives but few of us consider the effects of the chemicals we apply on our skin. Marinella reveals that we should be paying even more attention to the things we apply topically than what we eat. When we apply lotion, the chemicals get absorbed directly into the skin, bypassing the liver. Any chemicals in foods we consume are processed by the liver before entering the body. “So you would actually be better off eating you skin care than applying it on your face,” she explained.

I was pleasantly surprised by Golden Natural Skin Care’s prices.  Because of low overhead costs, Marinella is able to provide high quality products at affordable prices.  Another thing Marinella offers is the ability to order a modified product that perfectly matches your skin.

Marinella’s passion for taking health into our own hands came across clearly.  I could tell her skin care line is less about a business than a way to provide people with healthier choices and options. Marinella believes in being conscious of what we put in and on our bodies.  It seems not only are you what you eat, but also what you apply on your skin.