Host of the TV Show Rock Star Recipes and the 1st Indian-American to walk the Latin Grammy Red Carpet, Anand Bhatt brings us the inside scoop & behind-the-scenes on Everything from Kitchen and Fitness Hacks, who's wearing what, the latest fashion and beauty trends, Inspiration on how celebs keep it together under stress, and more!
Before the days of fad diets and internet sensations filled with an endless array of videos, Facebook posts, Tweets and Pins on the latest organic all natural sensation. A British retailer The Body Shop had
already fully embraced the organic healthy living way of life.
Decades after they pioneered the sale of chemical free cosmetics the all-natural retailer is still going strong. Their success has continued to surge forward despite the stiff competition from other retailers
who have decided to cash in on the all-natural living bandwagon.
What’s The Body Shop’s ability to stay afloat in even the most difficult economic times when so many other retailers have surrendered to the ever-expanding .com marketplace?
The reasons behind their success are pretty simple the big wig in The Body Shops corporate offices are not dumb enough to kill the golden goose. Which also translates into not getting rid of classic items loyal
customers have come to rely on.
Shouldn’t consumer demand outweigh what’s cool and hip?
Much like the rapidly changing great products seem to be taken off the shelves when marketing professionals have somehow determined that they’ve gone out of style. Sadly, what “beauty professionals” count as to what “cool” may differ from items which keep customers coming back for
more.
Great skin care for an amazing price
One of the most difficult gifts to buy is skincare products. After all, there’s always the risk of causing the receiver to break out in allergic reactions due to harsh chemicals.
The best thing about purchasing moisturizers, cleansers, balms and toners from The Body Shop is that gentle all natural ingredients is more than just a cliché. In short, you simply can’t go wrong.
The following products are just a taste of what The Body Shop has to offer.
VITAMIN E MOISTURE CREAM http://amzn.to/2zjLMQX : At first glance, this product may not appear to be
economically priced. However, given the fact that one container will last well over a couple of months it
works out to be a pretty good deal. I absolutely adore this product especially during these cold winter
months when frosty winds can turn skin from silky smooth into something that closely resembles highly
durable sandpaper.
The thick creamy texture shouldn’t come across as off-putting. Just a dab delivers a surge of moisture
that absorbs quickly without a heavy greasy feeling. Not to mention the awesome ingredients such as
vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and wheat germ will no doubt leave skin soft and supple all day long.
You can count on this product to keep the dry itchy skin of winter at bay.
An essential beauty tip that most people tend to forget is that great skincare includes scalp care too.
GINGER SCALP CARE SHAMPOO http://amzn.to/2zkS8Q4 : Just because it’s snowing outside doesn’t mean a blizzard
should be brewing on your shoulders too. The main ingredients of ginger, honey, birch bark and white
willow will gently remove flakes while leaving behind an ounce of moisture to prevent them from
coming back.
One thing that sets this product apart from other anti-dandruff shampoos is that it’ll get the job done
without leaving hair brittle and dry. Instead, your locks will be soft, highly moisturized with tons of body.
So, kiss those flakey shoulders goodbye because relief is in sight.
Finally last but not least nature’s wonder fruit the coconut! The beauty and health benefits of this
super fruit are endless!
COCONUT BEAUTY BAG http://amzn.to/2BjChTe : This little bundle of goodness is undoubtedly on the top of
anyone’s stocking stuffer list and is sure to put all travel size kits to shame.
What could be better than a massive dose of moisture from all natural organic coconut oil?
What comes in this giftset?
• Body Butter Coconut
• Hand Cream Coconut
• Shower Gel Coconut
Long gone are the days of settling for mediocre travel size kits which most people purchase mainly out of necessity. Now feeling good is possible while in the air or on the road too.
Remember that when in doubt all natural is best. Hopefully, these bits and pieces help make choosing the best all-natural products for yourself and
someone special easier than ever.
Venus, Mercury, The Moon, Uranus! (Try saying that 4 times in a row without smiling)! November is some month for you, Aries. Random events may set the ball in motion for you to get some surprise cash in the future. This is the month where that happens. Also, make sure you are focused for what you want in life. If you haven’t spent a morning thinking or writing down specifics, do so ASAP – because starting from the second half of this month and for a while after opportunities will start presenting themselves to you. If you have focused vision, life can start becoming an open playing field for you to achieve your goals. However, if there isn’t anything specific you want out of life (which is OK btw and perfectly healthy) you may end up getting ping ponged around from one opportunity to the next without even noticing them and thereby not really getting anywhere. Again, that’s fine if you have the right attitude that happiness comes from within. But if you do have specific wants, and you stay focused and alert, this is the month where it can all start coming together.
TAURUS
Keep your ears open this month, Taurus. And your eyes too. You may think you’re losing your mind, but no – those aren’t coincidences. People may seem more helpful OR you hear amazing ideas and get inspired from the most unsuspecting places. If you’re in a relationship watch out for Venus the second half of the month! The big V can either push you towards an affair or have some fantasies or bring you closer to your current partner. If you’re single HAVE FUN! If you want to stay single, beware of feelings that might develop.
GEMINI
Solitude is your friend this November. Do you meditate? You may want to dedicate some morning quiet time to thinking about all the thoughts you’re having this month. This is a good month to connect with your inner self (selves hehehe ) and frequently remind yourself that external circumstances come from inner state NOT the other way around. Mercury and Saturn are going to make sure you your mind is both challenged and that the universe’s message gets across to you. This is a month where it is OK to feel good about everything going on in your life. No need to stress out about what you think might need changing, those plans and desires are for another month.
CANCER
All of November is your red carpet moment, Cancer. You can’t lose when it comes to others this month. Even if you think you’ve embarassed yourself, it is going to somehow work in your favor. So express yourself, go wild. Creative types will make awesome projects this month if they go with the flow, and stay in a state of flow. Spend time with friends, co-workers, or family this month – you are inspiring even when you’re not trying to be. You owe the world your presence right now, and especially during the second half of the month. Watch out for those last few days of the month, don’t let yourself get too argumentative but pay attention to and learn from your emotions if you are stirred up.
LEO
This is some storybook month for you, Leo. The planets and the stars are all lined up and moving in the direction of possible career benefits, social benefits, skill sets and learning. You may feel pushed and you may not want to grow, but if you don’t fight it and challenge yourself everything is set up for you to benefit. And on the 18th and afterwords? Feel free to enjoy any spoils you may have earned from the year to date. Anything from a vacation to a night out on the town will work. Have you seen Brewster’s Millions? Remember to spend your money on experience, nothing tangible. You may arouse some envy, but ignore the haters.
VIRGO
Ah, Virgo. You and your stress. You may not feel it, but you do have the support of those around you if you want to let a few plates fall. Mercury may be causing you some mental snafus or some communication breakdowns so do your best and try not to take life too seriously in general. This may be a good month to take some time out and read about Einstein’s relativity, even though it is possibly you will have a hard time being able to concentrate and focus on it – but this month you will benefit a great deal from learning/remembering what time really is and how it really works. What is an “event” in your life anyway? Who or what are you in terms of space-time anyway? When in doubt, try to find an answer to these questions. When the holidays start kicking in, let your family members handle themselves and be responsible for their own enjoyment.
LIBRA
Have you heard about the amends process in 12 step programs, Libra? The premise is this: trying to figure out what and who you resent, try to figure out your part in it, admit when you’re wrong, and make things right. This November is when this process could be enormously beneficial to you. Even if it something seemingly ridiculous, like you just rememberd a time when you were mean to a girl in school when you were little. In that hypothetical case, feel free to track her down and either apologize or if that’s too weird leave her a compliment. Do what it takes this month to balance out anything that bothers you in life. The results from such an ongoing exercise this month will be AMAZING! Also, try to not to create any new harms to others this month. Don’t understimate your “karma powers” right now. Also, Venus and Jupiter might try to get you to fall in love – if not with a person, then with something materialistic/worldly.
SCORPIO
What’s up, Scorps! Just how promiscuous do you want to be this month? You don’t need to be celibate if you don’t want to you, definitely don’t shame yourself, but if you go for it be safe. Or maybe this risk taking impulse won’t be sexual for you, it could manifest itself in business, or gambling, or thrill seeking. OR for some of you that are in committed relationships, you may be driving your partner nuts this month. Reel it in! Again, don’t be in denial about what you’re feeling this month but dial it back! Perhaps think of others to get out of yourself – but don’t smother anyone in the name of helping them.
SAGITTARIUS
My fellow Sags! Good luck keeping the narcissism at bay this month. Wow. If you decided to start a cult this month, you’d probably succeed. Enjoy any attention you get. For some of you it may be negative attention, maybe a hater or worse – watch out for stalkers. That one night stand might not be as cool as you are about it. Still be charming, no need to not be friendly, but just understand – that random person you smiled at innocently is most likely obsessing over you ever since and can’t figure out why. This is also a good month to wall up at home and meditate. See, either fortunately or unfortunately – depending on how you judge the last three years – Saturn is loosening its grip on you. You may be afraid as well as excited for the future. You know something’s going, you can feel it. Get deep and go Buddha. Park yourself, resist the urge to multitask, and get as much inner wisdom as you can. You’ve learned a lot over the last three years – if Saturn wills it, it could take it all away. OR perhaps you got used to a level of discomfort, and Saturn will ease up and launch you into a new three year reign of prosperity and enlightment. If you are religious Pray to that planet, if you’re not or not sure maybe try to be good to others and earn Saturn’s favor.
CAPRICORN
Do you like crystals and colors, Capricorn? This is a pro- Feng Shui month for you. If you’re not into that sort of thing, maybe take some fashion risks. Also, on social media this will be a month where you will want to speak your mind ESPECIALLY if it isn’t the usual complaining about the current state of affairs. Share your insight, even if it is controversial (as long as it is not hate speech, your friends will cut you A LOT of slack and perhaps even be inspired by you this month but they might not put up with hate speech). Watch out for communication snafus towards the end of the month. You may run into delays or hurdles on a project, or possibly even a romantic interest you’ve been pursuing. Actually, pursuing is a good litmus test here to predict if you’re going to be surprised in this area (and usually not to your liking). If a relationship is a GOAL for you, that is an unhealthy way to treat another person and the universe might step in and save that other person from you. Go with the flow and stay in the moment. Other People aren’t Your achievements. Beware of your urge to have an “end game” or plans and designs when it comes to another person.
AQUARIUS
This is the month to do what it takes to ensure some work-life balance. If you don’t, both sides might suffer. Work-life issues may even sneak up on you this month, it all might feel like it is going so well – the universe is tricky like that, it is up to you to be honest with yourself to make sure you not compromising your real self in the name of security or comfort. Your home persona is a mask, it’s not the real you. Your work persona is a mask, it’s not the real you. They may seem real, but they’re not. They’re stories to support your ego. And eventually your ego is going to want some drama. That being said, you do have the ability to seize opportunities this month so stay open minded and alert! Towards the end of the month your mind might even get totally blown!
PISCES
You’re too practical sometimes, Pisces. Sometimes your mind rebels with impulsive desires as a way to combat the ways in which you’ve sacrificed in order to play it safe. Don’t fall for the trap. I know we may tease you at times for thinking too much, but still research your decisions this month before jumping into something impuslive. Also, remember life is not a series of fires that need to be put out no matter what your mind tells you. Also, remember that if your mind tells you that you don’t have time for something it is full of it. It’s wrong. You may not believe me, but study some physics – eastern philosophy if you’re not into science – time is Not something you’re running out of. Ignore your mind this month, dive into some text-books or take courses to better yourself and your career. Beware of cockiness – especially if youare indeed reading and getting smarter, your lack of humility can drive others away. This month, if you focus on compassion, empathy, education (especially physics and philosophy, try some Nassim Taleb too some of you will need to get comfortable with randomness soon), you will thrive.
Apparently, some hair accessories weren’t meant to stay in the past
Those hair ties made of fabric made from any design or colour of the rainbow used to be what anyone who was anyone in the late 80’s up to the 90’s would be sure to be sporting for everyone to see. Opinions on this iconic fashion accessory typically are a mix of love and nostalgia. For a while, it came as a relief to some that these bits of coloured were finally off the shelves.
Nevertheless, as it is with most fashion accessories, the next big thing is hardly going to be as predictable as it may seem. On the contrary it’s always the craze you least expect that ends up taking the world by storm.
Behind door number one 80’s and 90’s hair accessories! The scrunchie I bet no one so that coming!
No this isn’t a spinoff of a hit comedy from the past. To continue to deny that these hair ties made of fabric aren’t going to return with a vengeance is a denial of the inevitable.
After all since Hollywood’s doing the marketing well let’s just say it’s about time we all race down to the accessory aisle and pick some up for ourselves.
If the A-listers are doing it, then it’s got to be cool
One of the things that have moved fashion through the decades despite trends is the need to accessorise. Perhaps it’s cause of our fast-paced, hectic lifestyles or the need to get things done quickly because of preconceived notion of self-gratification whether this expectation of not wanting to wait or need to complete any outfit with cute, fun accessories these scrunchies have made a fantastic comeback.
You don’t have to be in Hollywood to indulge in this fashion must have that seems to be taking Tinsel Town by storm.
Celebrities from Selena Gomez, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Jennifer Lopez just to name a few have proven that scrunchies of just the right colour can complete any outfit. Not to mention, unlike tight hair ties they can pull back hairstyles while not denting those curls that took hours to create.
There is a color for every occasion
The great thing about scrunches is because they’re so economically priced having one to suit any time is entirely possible no matter what your budget.
From 2-5 dollars each, the temptation not to go a little crazy and to pick out a bunch when trying to choose the perfect one is a possible trap anyone can fall through. Not to mention they aren’t exactly hard to find given the fact that popular drug stores such as Target, Walmart and CVS are a scrunchie lover’s haven.
When pieces found at those shops, just don’t satisfy your scrunchie desires retailers devoted to the latest trends in fashion such as Claire’s may be your go-to source for the perfect tie.
Not all scrunchies are created equal
In the world of hair ties as it is with clothing, black or any dark colour in general equals elegance. Selena Gomez has proven that black scrunchies and public appearances go hand in hand. Her love for the cloth covered band was evident when she sported a long braided updo with a black scrunchie to top it off at the back in 2013. If it goes with Coach, it’s got to be chic? Right?
Catherine Zeta-Jones in 2013 made so many fashionistas realise that nothing completes a posh but casual outfit of a fur coat and dark sunglasses better than a maroon scrunchie. After can’t a girl look great but be comfortable at the same time?
Award-winning actress and singer Jennifer Lopez proved that scrunchies and sophistication are a match made in heaven. This was evident after she paired a black one to go with her leopard-patterned outfit and Jimmy Choos on an episode of American Idol back in 2015.
Could 80’s and 90’s fashion turn into the hot new trends of today?
If scrunchies have anything to do with it, then it is absolutely possible. What’s next neon coloured outfits and mood rings? Perhaps rollerblades could once again reach new heights in their popularity?
Only time will tell after all these iconic bits and pieces had to be great for a reason.
Nothing says happy holidays better than cosmetics whose scents echo the most joyful time of the year
It seems impossible to go to any shopping mall these days without being bombarded by the endless Christmas carols. Nevertheless, nothing puts anyone in the spirit of the season faster than the scent of the holidays. After all, the music may stop, but scents carry on through the air.
What better way to show the ones you love you care than cosmetics that leave a trace of the holidays in their wake.
Stocking stuffers from Philosophy a brand well renowned for products that showcase fun scents made from gentle ingredients to suit even the most sensitive of skin.
These little tidbits of holiday joy are sure to put a spring in anyone’s step and warmth in their heart.
PHILOSOPHY Candy Cane Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble BathWhen it comes to fun scents with a sweet undertone this product is an absolute must-have. Not only does it have the light, refreshing undertone of real candy canes. But, most importantly it’s safe to use for any skin or hair type. It’s extra gentle ingredients of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice just to name a few, as well as an absence of parabens, sulphates and phthalates, make it suitable for the most relaxing of bubble baths.
PHILOSOPHY Snow Angel Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble BathNothing exemplifies the joy of the winter season better than images of snow angels. After all despite the chill in the air shouldn’t we bask in the simplicity and relaxation this time of year can bring?
What if the magic of snow angels could be enjoyed away from the cold at home while soaking in a relaxing bath? The great thing about this product is just a cap full can create the silkiest of foamy bubble baths. For those days when soaking in a tub isn’t an option no need to worry since it’s gentle enough to use as a bath gel and shampoo for any skin or hair type.
PHILOSOPHY Christmas Cookie Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath One of the best things about the holiday season is the food. Wouldn’t it be great to bask in the welcoming scent of holiday treats without the after-effects of the inevitable weight gain? Now you can with this luxurious bubble bath that will fill you with the smell of Christmas cookies. As always all Philosophy products are entirely free of the harmful effects of parabens, sulphates and phthalates.
If anything negative does come out of this product, it could be the overwhelming temptation to indulge in a Christmas cookie or a dozen. Honestly, is there any harm in that?
PHILOSOPHY Mint Chocolate Treat On those long winter nights when it’s far too cold to venture out nothing soothes the soul like steaming cup of hot chocolate. The only thing better than hot chocolate is mint chocolate chip. This cocoa, cream and vanilla infused products are sure to fulfil any indulgence without the weight gain that comes along with cream and chocolate.
As always these multipurpose products of shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath are void of harsh ingredients which makes them suitable for even the most sensitive skin and texture of hair.
PHILOSOPHY Snow Angel Set Hills and idyllic villages blanketed in freshly fallen snow completely sums up the best part of this icy season. The travel sized products contained in this adorable gift set are the closest thing to enjoying the freshness of newly fallen snow from the warmth and comfort of your own home.
Snow Angel Shower Gel, Snow Angel Body Lotion, Snow Angel Body Polishing Scrub & Snow Angel Body Spritz
As usual, these products are utterly void of harsh ingredients, but because of the fragranced laced lotion, this product is only suitable for normal skin.
What better way to enjoy the holidays than to carry their essence along with you?
These products are sure to put a smile on the face of people who are dear to your heart. Or why not treat yourself to a bit of indulgence? It is the holidays after all.
Perhaps something good has finally come out of societies’ growing addiction to cyberspace?
From an outsiders point of view continually being engaged in cyberspace mostly translates into watching videos on YouTube, social media platforms all in all a waste of time. But, what if there was a positive element to these hours of surfing through websites? Why not put these long hours to good use, by utilising them to seek out academic advancement?
Claiming that books are boring is far from a fair assumption. On the contrary, that statement is furthest from the truth.
Nothing negative ever came out of expanding one’s knowledge through the written word. So, why not give apps like Audible by Amazon, Google Play Books, Amazon Kindle and Good Reads a try? Perhaps they may bring something good out of downloads and not just hours of wasted time.
There aren’t any excuses now
When asked one of the biggest reasons most people have for not reading books is that there just isn’t any time. Given the fast-paced lives, so many of us lead these days taking a few minutes or an hour at the most to pick up a good book seems almost unthinkable. Since no matter how much we try to get done during the day there’s never really enough time.
On the days when all important tasks get sorted, and there’s nothing left to do till the next wave of activities and schedules. The next excuse most people usually give is that engaging in the written word requires too much tedious energy that would be much better put towards just doing nothing at all. After all in all this constant onslaught activity, when do we ever get the chance to let our minds wander?
What if reading could be akin to daydreaming?
Could there be anything more relaxing than listening to narrations of not only popular books but the classics as well? Prices of these novels and short stories may vary depending on their release date. But, the variety of titles to choose from is incredibly vast it could open up the door to a whole new generation of readers.
Most potential readers already own one the critical components needed to enter this literacy fantasy world
Downloading books as with anything else can only be made possible only through reliable access to WIFI which seems to be almost anywhere these days.
Truth be told to really get submerged in the art of the high tech written word some sites do require readers to purchase a kindle. However, given the amount of money most people spend on electronic devices these days buying one that costs next to peanuts to what most of these gadgets total is hardly a significant investment.
Stating that it can be done from just about anywhere is an understatement
During rush hour, relaxing or just about any time of day one of the most common sights are people with headphones on as they escape reality in exchange for a better fantasy, though it is true that this can easily be accomplished through the latest movie, album or binge-watching the fun new television series.
Nevertheless, with all these new releases popping up on the shelves, one thing that continuously tends to get overlooked is hot new novels just waiting to be discovered. That being said why not switch out those other forms of entertainment for a great new series whose excitement, intrigue and detail can only be found through the written word.
After all, as they say, there’s so much they don’t include in the movie version. Wouldn’t it be great to get a more in-depth glimpse into those movies based on novels?
Reading does the body good
Why not invest in widening academic horizons and not just hours of wasted time? Who knows it may be possible to quickly get lost in a good book as it is in the latest YouTube sensation? Give these apps a try. They may be far from free of charge. But isn’t it far better to spend money on expanding knowledge than killing brain cells with entertainment that contains no beneficial qualities at all?
Perhaps given time the written word will be far from dead, but revived by a whole new generation of readers?
