Healthy Hair + Healthy Body = Healthy Me

Two weeks ago, I set out on a healthy lifestyles journey. I have been on my natural hair journey since July 2009 and now I am committed to making changes in other areas of my life. I have proven to myself that I have the discipline to stick with my hair regimen and now the focus is on developing my nutritional health. My goal is to create better eating and exercise habits and lose 25 pounds along the way.

"Before you start an exercise and nutrition program, be sure to consult with your doctor and find a plan that works for you."

During the first week of my journey, I did the 3-day Catalyst Cleanse. I wanted to recharge my system and start with a clean slate. For three days, I only had six, 16 oz bottles of a fruit & veggie blended juice. The cleanse allowed for as much water & decaf tea that I wanted. I documented my days and talked about the juice. The juices were numbered from 1 to 6. Two of the juices were the same blend (No. 1 & No. 5). Unfortunately, these were my least favorite. So I skipped out on number five each day. As a result of the cleanse, I lost 2 lbs. on the first day. It was a little scary and exciting to drop 2 lbs in one day. Ultimately, I lost a total of 3 lbs 9 oz during the fast.

"Find resources to help measure your progress and keep you on track."

After the Catalyst Cleanse, I decided to clean up my diet and exercise plan. Easing back into solids, I started eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. I also started drinking more water and getting more exercise. I also installed a food tracker app to help me journal my daily food & exercise intake. The MyFitnessPal app is a free tool that can be downloaded for mobile devices or accessed via the web site.

"Document! Document! Document!"

The second week was very productive because I created a regimen designed to help me reach my goal. The MyFitnesPal app took some time for me to become familiar, but now I use it multiple times daily. I also managed to squeeze in four classes at the gym. My plan going forward is to take three to five classes per week. 


I am dedicated to using the same patience and commitment I used during my hair journey to reach my Healthy Me. Let me know what you are doing in 2012 to be a Happier and Healthier You.


For more information about the Catalyst Cleanse, Visit: www.catalystcleanse.com
For more information about MyFitnessPal, visit: www.mfitnesspal.com

Isis Brantley talks about the Nzuri Hair Show

The Nzuri Natural Hair Health & Beauty Showcase in Houston last month was phenomenal. Thousands of attendees filled the Reliant Center for two days of product sampling, shopping, workshops and pageants. I had the pleasure of meeting Isis Brantley. Isis is a well-known celebrity hairstylist, master braider, author and icon. We had a quick chat and she shared her thoughts about the show. I have attached the clip below.

Isis offers natural hair care classes and official certification. To get more information on Isis Brantley, visit her website at: www.naturallyisis.com.

Hair Locking 101 Presented by Malaika-Tamu Cooper

Malaika-Tamu Cooper is the owner of Dreadz n’ Headz located in Baltimore, Maryland. She has extensive knowledge about natural hair care and is known to many as “Loc Mama.” Malaika has over 16 years of professional hair care experience and her credits include: founder of the Baltimore Natural Hair Care Expo and The Evolution Tours; instructor of many international educational sessions; and lecturer at “The Peoples Expo” in Maryland.

I have recently had the pleasure of attending Malaika’s workshop at the Nzuri Natural Hair Health & Beauty Showcase in Houston. The workshop entitled, “Hair Locking 101” focused on loc education and was very informative to the attendees, including those who wear loose hair. I was really blown away by scalp mapping. This process is used to assess things that may hinder healthy hair growth. I never knew that so much could be learned about a person based on their scalp. 

If you are interested in booking Malaika for a workshop or seminar, 
call (410) 876-0600 or email Ohnappy1@gmail.com. 
Don’t forget to check out The Evolution 2012 Tours. For more information or to find a city near you, go to www.naturalhaircareexpo.com.

An Inexpensive Gift Idea With Endless Possibilities

The weather is changing and it's time for me to break out the hats, scarves and gloves. I just ordered the Infinity Scarf from LuvNaturals and had to share this information with you. If you haven't tried an Infinity Scarf, I would highly recommend it. Not only does it keep you warm, it can also add the right punch to make your outfit pop! Those who are familiar with this scarf can attest to its versatility and endless ways it can be worn. You can drape it over your head for a stylish hood; wrap it around your shoulders as a shawl; twist it around your waist to create a sweater; or just wear it as a scarf. The Infinity Scarf is definitely my favorite accessory for the season.

I was playing with different styles.

This will make a great gift that is reasonably priced! You can find them as low as $13.99 at LuvNaturals.com.

Nzuri Natural Hair Show Ticket Contest Winners.

Guess who will be joining me at the Nzuri Natural Hair Show?
You have each won 1 General Admission ticket to the show!

SilkHandz74

Billeigh Waters-Mark

Akida Mark

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To redeem your prize:
Your ticket will be waiting at the front door. Bring a federal or state-issued picture ID with your name printed as you have submitted it. If I don't have your full name listed above, please email me your first and last name by Wednesday, December 7th.

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Congrats to all the winners and I'll see you there!