be well {groomed!}

2011-12-31T10:30:00.000-08:00

it's been a fabulous year and i appreciate each of you so very much. looking forward to sharing moments with you in the New Year. i know, i know, it's a bit of torture by sugar ... but we do tend to have some really great chuckles at Studio 41!

so, cheers cheers to the endings

that bring sweet beginnings

and all the treasure that lies therein.

{sending you all the best wishes for peace, prosperity and frolicking in the NY!}

holiday wishes ... for you, me, and we

2011-12-23T11:57:00.000-08:00

frolicking

fresh, clean water

frisky, colorful, crisp, colorful fruits & veggies

moments of reflection ... both planned and found

deep, luscious, toe-wiggling breaths

copious amounts of rollicking laughter, quiet chuckles & belly jiggles

stretching ... our bodies, our minds, our concepts of what is & what can be

bubbly, frothy, tasty sips

gentle self talk and luxurious self care

endless, boundless empathy ... for ourselves and all miraculous types of living things

along with warmth, tenderness and love

cheers to a spectacular New Year ... our best yet!

{i feel it in my fingers, i feel it in my toes ...

love is all around us & so the story gooooooooeeeessss}

exfoliate ... it's great!

2011-12-09T10:31:00.001-08:00

a week or so after sugaring, it's time to exfoliate the sugared zone to encourage what hair does grow back to do so smoothly and with minimal ingrowns.

exfoliating is fabulous for the skin and works well on the bikini region, bum, backs of thighs, backs of arms, feet and hands as well as the face, neck and chest. when you exfoliate, you're engaging the skin's natural metabolism, sloughing off dead/dry skin, cleaning out follicles, evening skin tone and preparing the skin for moisture. the best exfoliation is gentle and consistent. i prefer acids and enzymes but salts and exfoliating cloths can be effective too.

at be well {groomed!}, you'll typically find Ingrown Zone (salicylic & glycolic in a gentle, soothing mix), FarmHouseFresh's Honey Heel Glaze (papaya & pineapple enzymes in a spicy, smells great, natural formula), Desert Mineral's Detox Scurb (natural blend of physical exfoliators) and others.

but if you're not at be well {groomed!}, here are a few other options.

i love Lotus Moons' Post 2%. its natural ingredients help to soothe the skin and prevent bumps. the 2% salicylic acid is supported with arnica, aloe & rosehips oil. the company's founder remains focused on developing high quality products based on our on-going research into Mother Nature’s plants and enzymes, and true science with a reverence for all life. {while you're there, check out my other fave product: Cherry Blossom Healing Soothe ... smells & feels divine, plus leaves skin nourished & silken!}.

and, the Blueberry 8 is a fabulous scrub!

if you'd rather walk into Sephora and buy something there, i also like these:
Peter Thomas Roth Gentle Complexion Correction Pads
Jurlique Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator
Boscia Luminize Black Mask
Ole Henriksen Walnut Scrub

and, i've heard that Neutrogena makes a spray toner with salicylic acid that many people like.

a few more tips:

don't buy a salicylic acid wash. you need a toner or serum as the salicylic acid should stay ON your skin (and not be washed off). it's gentle and at a low % rate when sold OTC so it needs to be on the skin longer than a wash can provide.
also, look at the other ingredients. don't buy a product that also has benzoyl peroxide. BP can be hard on the skin and bleach your clothing.
use your salicylic acid product 4-5 times per week (or as recommended on the product's label).
use scrubs and other physical exfoliants 2-3 times per week
spot treat stubborn areas or new bumps more frequently.
and, if you can also use the salicylic acid with great results on those pesky bumps that show up on the backs of your arms or legs.
you'll notice that many of the products i recommend are designed for the face. my philosophy: just because you're using it on your body doesn't mean it should be junk! your skin is an important organ (our largest!) and requires nourishment as well as gentle and consistent care.
exfoliate up to the day prior to your next sugaring appointment ... this will ensure that the hairs are above the skin and ready for removal!

dude, just get sugared already!

2011-11-29T10:23:00.000-08:00

as more gents inquire about sugaring their unwanted body hair, the same questions occur: will my skin react badly? when will the hair re-grow?

so, i thought i'd address some of the most common issues. please feel free to share with the pro-grooming fella in your life. and should you have more questions, please take a moment to comment or email.

will my skin react?
the first time the chest, back or neck are sugared your skin will most likely have some type of reaction. sugaring is much gentler on the skin's surface than waxing or shaving but, at the same time, removes more hair from the root. this leaves an open follicle in the skin and where there is an opening, the body likes to have protection. typically, your body's immune system will kick into gear and send inflammation, lymph & white blood cells to the open follicles. (that is the immediate reaction). do not pick, poke or prod these bumps; that will make it worse (often much worse). apply soothing, calming, well-made gentle creams to the skin to prevent or lessen the reaction.

fortunately, skin has a sort of sense memory that allows it to "learn" from experiences and this immediate reaction decreases with each sugaring.

you might also have a secondary reaction when the hair re-grows. this reaction can be lessened with consistent & gentle exfoliation. and, like the immediate reaction, tends to be less and less with each sugaring.

here is i want you to know: it gets better! each time you sugar, your skin appreciates the sugaring more and more. be consistent; plan to sugar every 4-6 weeks. and enjoy the decreasing hair!

how do i treat the reaction?

if it works for you, take an anti-histamine two days prior and the day of the appointment.
stock up on soothing, hydrating, gentle, de-reddening products and use as needed. you can use Aveeno Hydrocortisone, Balmex Rash Cream, Buddreaux's Butt Paste as often as necessary to soothe your skin.
to help your skin, NEVER work out, shower, surf, hot tub, use a tanning bed or any activity that might cause heat or friction for at least 24 hours after sugaring.

exfoliate for success!
about a week after sugaring, it is time to start exfoliating the sugared area. i recommend salicylic acid serums but also find that serums with mixed acids and enzymes work well too. (serum means you leave it on. you can apply a moisturizer on top of the serum). you will use the exfoliating serum 4-5x/week. you can augment the exfoliation with a sugar or salt scrub 1-2x/week. need a recommendation for an exfoliating products? just email or comment!

exfoliating is terrific for you skin. when you exfoliate gently and consistently you not only help the hair re-grow smoothly, you also even your skin tone, smooth your skin's texture, allow your moisturizer to work better and encourage fresh, firm skin to rise to the surface.

where can i sugar?
sugaring works fabulously to remove hair from the root from the 'brows to the toes and all the nooks & crannies in between ... yes, even "down there." sugaring is not recommended for the beard or scalp.

there are a few contraindications for sugaring. you should not be sugared if you have Lupus, any immune deficiency, or are using Retin-A, Differen and other prescriptions or specific topicals. be open and honest with your sugarista ... your skin will thank you for it!

when will the hair grow back?
hair grows on about a 3-5 week cycle. this differs person to person and you will notice your own hair grows differently at various times in your life. stress, hormones, nutrition and exercise are among the factors that may influence hair re-growth.

because sugaring does such a fabulous job of removing hair from the root, you will see less hair with each sugaring session. and if you schedule your appointments consistently, you will stay cleaner longer between sugarings.

want the hair gone more quickly and for longer?
go for the Depilar treatment. i apply the Depilar serums just after removing the hair via sugaring. while Depilar works like magic, it's actually a high-tech doozy that provides lasting reduction of unwanted body hair for all sexes, races, hair color and hair types.

timing is everything
want to be hair-free for your Spring Fling? start now. please don't schedule your very first sugaring the day before you leave for the vacation of a lifetime. plan ahead. give your skin time to adapt. removing the hair from the root is a big change!

the many splendid benefits of sugaring
sugaring is better for your skin and for getting rid of the hair than both waxing and shaving. here's a few reasons why:

fabulous exfoliation, removing dry, flaky skin cells and leaving your skin soft, smooth, and hair free
removes hair in the direction of growth, resulting in minimal breakage and maximum depletion at the root
gentle on the skin and can actually improve and mitigate dry skin conditions
results in fewer ingrowns, less regrowth and virtually no redness
zero risk of nicking, scraping, burning, or lifting the skin

i can tell you with certainty that after 3 consistent sessions, you'll love the results! i've sugared all skin and hair types, most body parts, various genders and my clients are consistently amazed at how quickly their skin adjusts to sugaring, how very soft their skin feels and how little hair grows back.

try it for your own danged self!

the {new!} online appointment book is up!

2011-10-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

thank you for your patience ... so very appreciated! i've moved over all existing appointments as pre-booked, through 2012.

the new system will send out those wonderfully handy reminder emails (though they may look a bit different). and, now, you can confirm (and book new appointments) from your mobile phone!

check it out now by clicking {here!}

Online will be Offline

2011-10-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've got some news to share: I have a new online booking/client management system.

As part of the launch, I will take the old system offline Wed 10/5/11 at 9pm PST.

The new system will go live on Monday, 10/11. You will receive an email with the new link. I will also post the new link here at bewellgroomed.com and on Facebook/Twitter.

The new system is faster, easier to use and completely accurate.

On the new system, you do not have to create a username & password to set an appointment. But, you will have more site functionality if you do so. Your previous username & password will not carry over.

Again, Wed evening, 10/5/11, 9pm PST, I'll turn off the current online option.

On Monday, 10/11, you will have a new link to use (and it will be available here and on Facebook/Twitter

Thank you so much for your patience during this transition. I look forward to your feedback...I think you're gonna love it!

sparkling review of b w {g!}

2011-10-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

A new client --Kirbie, also a journalist-- recently published this review of her trip to Studio 41.

Kirbie is a blast and I highly recommend a trip to her site!

Depilar + sugaring on NBC LA!

2011-09-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

View more videos at: http://nbclosangeles.com.

This was a total blast ... thank you Angie & Tom from NBC LA for taking the time to check out the fabulous Depilar & sugaring combo.

thank {you!}

2011-07-14T21:26:00.000-07:00

it's such a treat to be recognized for your craft ... but once the wave of excitement splashes by, it's easy to see that my FABulous clients are the real superstars! thank you all so much for entrusting me with your one and only skin.

schedule & service update

2011-06-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer Solstice!

it's officially summah summah summah time ... and thusly, time to remind all you fabulous folks that I will be away from Studio 41 as follows:

July 3-11, 2011

I'll cruise back into the studio on the evening of July 12 from 4:30-8:30pm. (I just opened these times up on the schedule so they are available ... if you need an appointment that week, grab'em as the rest of the week is booked).

also, summer sun and beach fun prohibits most professional exfoliating treatments so I've removed Essential Facials & Bacials from the menu. most likely, they will return around Thanksgiving.

if you are an existing client, someone with a Fab Facial package or gift certificate, please email or call and I will get you booked into a soothing, rehydrating facial! i will not, however, be able to take new facial/bacial clients at this time.

thank you for checking in ... what does the sunshine have in store for you?

Now at Studio 41: LashFood

2011-06-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

I have been searching and waiting for a more natural lash builder. And, this weekend at the Vegas show, I've found my product: LashFood!

Longer, thicker, stronger lashes, naturally ...
Introducing LashFood treatment, a drug-free, natural alternative for those with not enough eyelashes. Recently named to Marie Claire's "2010's Top 10 Beauty Solutions."

Clinically Tested
Complete Natural Formation
Prostaglandin Free
Gluten Free
Synthetic Fragrance Free
Cruelty Free
Dermatologist Tested & Approved
Pass Consumer Skin Sensitization Patch Study

Created by a team of cosmetic scientists, this breakthrough, powerful formula is clinically proven to provide the appearance of longer, thicker lashes and to transform frail and brittle lashes to become healthy and strong. Nourish lashes with this revolutionary, natural eyelash conditioner featuring Nano-Peptide Technology.

Pick yours up on your next visit to Studio 41 ... while I've got'em!

Vegas, baby!

2011-06-17T22:47:00.000-07:00

I'm away from the studio for the next several days, attending the skin care powwow known as IECSC.

My Vegas expiration date runs about three days and as such, I'll be back in the studio on Tuesday, June 21.

I'll also be away from phone and email access for most of the weekend so please feel free to send/leave messages, which I'll return once I've returned to Studio 41. You can also book via online by clicking {here}.

Have a gorgeous weekend ... wish me luck! (noooooo, kidding, it's a trade show so you know, work work work!)

InStyle's best idea of late: toss your razor!

2011-05-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

and come in for some superb sugaring + Depilar from be well {groomed!} at Studio 41!

Schedule Update

2011-05-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

How is your summer going?

Everyone's vacay plans sounded so good, got me thinkin' about my own getaways. So, without further ado, here are the dates I will be away from Studio 41 so that you might plan accordingly (or not; totally do what ya want with this info).

June 18-20 *
July 5-12 **
September 27-October 10 ***

For future updates, like be well {groomed!} on Facebook (this links directly to be well {groomed!} Twitter). Or, you can friend me up personally.

* Vegas, baby! Attending the rockin' skin care show so, technically, this is work. Work, I tell you. (Oh cabana boooooyyyyy ...)

** Notice how I planned this trip after the 4th of July? You're welcome! But please don't wait up to the last minute to make your appointment ... why not make it now?

*** Takin' the birthday celebration to the east coast this year. To fit everyone in, I will add a few days at Studio 41 prior to and after the trip. But that's months away. Let's go back to talking about my Vegas trip, shall we?

41 songs for 41st Earth Day ... for free!

2011-04-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

today only {click here} and use this code to download great tunes from fab artists:

EARTHDAY11

As a 1% for the Planet member, I donate at least one percent of my annual revenues to environmental causes. This Earth Day, I want to thank you for your support with the gift of free music. Download and enjoy 1% for the Planet: The Music, Vol. 1, a benefit compilation featuring 41 rare and exclusive tracks from artists like Jackson Browne, Josh Ritter, Grace Potter, and Jack Johnson—simply click here and enter code EARTHDAY11.

Once you’ve had a chance to enjoy the music, join me in giving back. Last year I contributed to the Center for Wildlife and Urban Roots —please consider supporting these deserving causes this Earth Day.

Now, go hug a tree, wiggle your toes in the dirt and enjoy the music!

not everything should be done at home!

2011-04-14T16:42:00.000-07:00

the gorgeous Kelli sent this video clip to me ... she included the note: "This is why we go to professionals!"

i laughed out loud ... hope it brings some chuckles into your day.

morning musings

2011-03-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

i love the TUT Adventurers Club. via email, the Hub gets a daily dose of inspiration from the Universe ... here's today's:

"All the years and all the tears... boy, Nathan Dana, aren't they gonna be shocked when they realize that nothing was ever lost - not friendships, not opportunities, not love - nothing?

And that they already had all those things they went searching for?

That never once were we disappointed in them?

That nothing had to be proved, learned, or earned?

That all along they were, in fact, the person they had always dreamed of becoming?

Glad we caught up with you when we did!!

Whoohoo!
The Universe

Thoughts become things... choose the good ones! ®
© www.tut.com ®"

let's hang out this Friday!

2011-03-01T12:04:00.001-08:00

be well {community!}

2011-02-24T17:11:00.001-08:00

i have to say that THE most amazing people visit be well {groomed!}. so, i'm excited to debut be well {community!} with Aimee Bryant & Melissa Menard, two super stars at Keller Williams Realty.

the concept of real estate is a bit mind boggling to me ... the ups, the downs, the many steps to owning property and, in LA, the prices...egads! Aimee & Melissa manage to wrangle all my questions so that i remain calm and focused on my real estate goals. lovely help, that.

got questions? just ask ... they know real estate!

heartfelt appreciation

2011-02-17T09:51:00.000-08:00

thank you to everyone who sent thoughts and hugs and beautiful words. Geneva was a special woman as well as my mentor in skincare, personal style and the appropriateness of a stiff drink at the end of a satisfying day.

the night before she played her final hand of cards, Hub & i got rowdy at a Todd Snider show. (Todd Snider Rules! (if you're experienced, you know the story there)). he closed his show with an old New Orleans ditty and when i hum it, i know it is a philosophy that Geneva employed as her own as often as she could.

Vegas, riverboat casinos, retail stores and Elks Clubs will never be quite as glamorous without her.

if you know it, sing along with us:

Enjoy yourself, it's later than you think;
Enjoy yourself, while you're still in the pink.
The years go by as quickly as a wink --
Enjoy yourself, enjoy yourself it's later than you think.

{one more time with love}

hole in my heart

2011-02-16T09:52:00.001-08:00

the BEST SPF

2011-02-08T06:11:00.001-08:00

heartswell 2011

2011-02-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

it's nice when we can go about your grooming and at the same time, do a smidge of good for another. with that vibe in mind, each year i make a donation to V-Day, Eve Ensler's esteemed organization working toward a world where women live safely & freely. the donation is made from me to V-Day at $1 for every client visit to be well {groomed!} from Feb 1 thru Feb 14.

the 2011 Spotlight Campaign will highlight violence on women and girls in Haiti, and will focus on the increased rates of sexual violence since the devastating earthquake took place in Jan 2010.

if you've been postponing your appointment, why not come in for a visit while your time benefits other women in need?

flex your voting muscle

2011-01-24T09:47:00.001-08:00

wanna give some props to my lil' biz? do you think my sugarista skillz are da best? then, click on this badge and rock that VOTE!

Pssst: you can use your Facebook account (no need to set up yet another password!). while you're logged in to FB, stop by & say Howdy! to be well {groomed}.

thank you, so very much!

2011, thematlically speaking

2011-01-22T11:54:00.000-08:00

here we are, tumbling toward the end of the first month of this new year. i've spent some time reflecting on the past year and pondering 2011. a word keeps popping up: Cultivate

i have to admit, i'm semi-obsessed with this word. it's really pleasant to say; just rolls off the tongue nicely. and it implies that effort is required but at the same time, there's a sense of possibility to it. plus, it works with a whole buncha stuff i've been thinking about: cultivating grace, cultivating friendships ... and specifically cultivate adventure.

that's it, that's my theme for the year: Cultivate Adventure

it is just ... time. time to fling wide the doors to life & let the sun shine in (weirdly, as i typed these words, Devandra Banhart sang the exact words as part of the song "I Love That Man" on Beach House station via Pandora ... that kinda stuff happens to me a lot ... so cool).

i may not even go anywhere "exotic" but i do feel the need to be ready ... physically robust, fiscally keen, soul tuned, hear resonating, eyes open.

and for you? what grand designs do you have on this bright, shiny year? do tell!

good for you in your New Year

2011-01-05T13:42:00.000-08:00

how did your cultivation of active rest feel? were you able to sneak in a moment of repose over the holidays? if not, try it this month!

as an esthetician, i can tell you with certainty that getting the right amount of sleep for your body is absolutely the very best in high-tech anti-aging.

also, the amount of rest your body requires changes ... when was the last time you considered how much sleep is right for you?

check out the video below; Arianna Huffington's big idea: sleep!

{special thanks to Nina Boski at Life Bites who shared the video}

cultivate active rest

2010-12-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

i recently read the title phrase in Natural Health and it struck a chord. maybe because of the number of clients i've seen in the past few weeks that have been struck with holiday mania. or, possibly it's the slow, gentle rain here in LA. what ever the reason, i've been turning this phrase over and over in my mind.

say it with me: cultivate active rest

sounds lovely, no?

i have strong responses to specific words, and cultivate is one of those that falls in the absolutely positive column. doesn't it seem that most worthwhile activities, traits, "things" require some cultivation?

but cultivating active rest ... now that piques my interest! i envision it as the purposeful making of time for the "R" words: reflecting, regrouping, relaxing, recharging.

as we roll toward the celebration of a New Year, ruminate a bit on how you might specifically cultivate time for you ... what might that look like? how might you feel?

let's touch base in a few weeks and see how it goes!

dance, poetry & other soul food

2010-11-08T08:57:00.000-08:00

yesterday Hub & I ventured downtown to watch the splendor that is the Corella Ballet. like most everyone, we're on a budget so we bought the near-cheapest tix and took the bus. plus we returned home for pasta à la Kenya instead of lingering over a restaurant meal. taking time to experience how others interpret the world can enrich your mind, body and soul as well as inspire you to tell your own story.

my favorite piece was Soleá, a Pas de Deux choreographed by María Pagés. here's an excerpt about this performance María wrote for the program:

"I find this path of collaboration between flamenco and classical ballet to be highly interesting with enormous potential for mutual enrichment for both forms of dance."

also yesterday, the NY Times included six poems to mark the end of daylight savings time in a section called Falling Back. here is the one that I most loved"

LINES WRITTEN IN THE DAYS OF GROWING DARKNESS
Every year we have been
witness to it: how the
world descends

into a rich mash, in order that
it may resume.
And therefore
who would cry out

to the petals on the ground
to stay,
knowing, as we must,
how the vivacity of what was is married

to the vitality of what will be?
I don't say
it's easy, but
what else will do

if the love one claims to have for the world
be true?
So let us go on

though the sun be swinging east,
and the ponds be cold and black,
and the sweets of the year be doomed.

MARY OLIVER, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and author, most recently, of "Swan: Poems and Prose Poems"

rave ups: aw, sugar sugar!

2010-10-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

"I have been to two different Manhattan waxing/sugaring salons and still they don't live up to your standards (but they certainly do charge double what you do!). I hope your clients realize how lucky they are to have you!"
Ms. L And The City

TiZo2 & TiZo3

2010-10-27T14:59:00.000-07:00

i've raved about this SPF since discovering it at my derm's office. it's effective, easy to use and the pigmented version (TiZo3) works fabulously as a base.

and, my dears, i encourage you to keep using your SPF, especially here in Cali. it's a beautiful day out today and if you're lucky enough to have lunch on a patio then first: why didn't you take me with you? and second: show your skin some love & affection my giving it a dose of sun protection!

using SPF year 'round will help prevent premature aging of the skin as well as melasma and other signs of sun damage.

and, TiZo3 & TiZo2 work to prevent chafing of facial skin during the obnoxious windy days!

ready to add these multi-tasking tools to your skin care regimen?

Culver City Kitty Seeking L.A. Love

2010-10-21T23:37:00.000-07:00

we've got a new foster kitty who is ready to find her forever home. we've set up a site to introduce to our gorgeous fluffball.

there's not enough time in the day for me to extol the many sweetnesses of this gorgeous being. she's a great cuddler and loves to play. super well behaved and frisky when she's frolicking.

if you or another cat fabulous person needs companionship, please have them email:
sweetsfromthestreet@gmail.com

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion."
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

schedule update

2010-10-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Lee will be rocking Studio 41 this Saturday while I'm traveling with my pals on Southwest back to OK to spend time with Geneva and my family.

To set up a facial with Jenn (you lucky ol' so-and-so), call or email:
(310) 666-8427
jalfalee@gmail.com

I won't have much chance to return emails while I'm on the road but there's no need to wait on me as you can log on and set up the appointment that best suits your schedule by clicking {here!}. While you're there you can also purchase a Gift Certificate for your BFF to get a fab facial or sweet sugaring at be well {groomed!}.

'til Tuesday!

and we're back!

2010-09-30T19:07:00.000-07:00

the online booking option has returned. to book your appointment or modify an existing appointment, click {here!}.

once you're on the new page, and if you've been to be well {groomed!}, enter your email address and request that your NEW, secret password be sent to you. if you've not yet visited be well {groomed!}, then click on New Guest and enter your email address.

once you're logged in, you can click Edit Profile to change your password to something that makes more sense to you.

on the new site, you can also see future appointments and buy Gift Certificates (it's Libra season and Libras looooove to be pampered!).

lemme know how it goes. and of course you can always call or email for appointments.

see you in the studio!

online is offline ... for a bit

2010-09-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

My appointment service provider is upgrading the online appointment tool (which is why it is down at the moment). I've heard the updated version will facilitate a better booking process (fingers crossed!).

Meanwhile, let's rock it luddite style: simply call or email for appointments!

If you'd like to receive notice once you can again book appointments online, please email me and I will add you to be well {groomed!} club.

to the Rescue!

2010-09-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

i loooooove Rescue Remedy. we always have some at the house for those more hectic times. and we give our pets a gentle dose before vet trips or when those noisy tree trimmers show up.

pondering the need for some in the studio so i clicked over to their site. check out their RESCUE philosophy ... brilliant!

Cool, Calm and Relaxed

If you feel like you've “had enough”, follow these simple tips to restore focus and regain inner calm wherever you are:

Relax - Take 10 deep breaths. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly.

Exercise - Learn some basic yoga techniques or just take a 10 minute walk.

Smile - Think of a happy time. It is near impossible to keep frowning while smiling and laughter stimulates the production of mood enhancing endorphins.

Calm - Let your imagination take you to a calm and tranquil place that exudes peace, serenity and beauty.

Use Your Lunchbreak - Take time out for yourself. A walk in the park, especially if it is sunny, can do wonders for your mood. It will help you work more efficiently in the afternoon too.

Escape - If you are able to, walk away. Removing yourself from a stressful situation can give you time to restore some perspective.

the rave-ups: Depilar edition

2010-09-04T14:30:00.001-07:00

"Good-bye Frodo toes, thanks to about ten treatments with Depilar . My legs are well on the way to silky smoothness, too, and this with no messy pre-treatments, scary lasers, or painful and never-ending electrolysis.

I am one happy and almost hairless customer."
Michele, Silverlake

Wanna learn more about Depilar at be well {groomed!}?
Read on!

high rate of sugar consumption

2010-08-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

sunshine has made it's way west ... the weather is too gorgeous! thusly, the fur has been flying around Studio 41. my apologies to everyone who was unable to get in and properly prepare for this weekend.

please take the time to click over and set up an appointment. there are very few openings left for the next two weeks. if you don't find a time that works for you, please email me and i'll put you on the waitlist. it works!

i'll be away from Studio 41 until Tuesday 8/24. while i'm galavanting, Jenn Lee will be doing her superb facials.

how to get in touch with Jennifer Lee:
(310) 666-8427
jalfalee@gmail.com

'til Tuesday ... namaste!

a car is born!

2010-08-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

car sharing returns to Culver City! thanks to Melissa & her company LAX Car Share, Los Angeles now has a neighborhood-centric car sharing.

(quick bit of background: first there was FlexCar and they placed cars at universities and within neighborhoods. then ZipCar swept in and moved all the cars to universities only. consequently, many people who tried, liked & used car sharing gave up the practice. we now return to the present time).

car sharing is superbly easy. you sign up online and pay a yearly fee. once you've been approved, you receive a key fob. when you need a car, you call or log on to reserve the car at a location that works best for you. at the start time of your reservation, you show up at the car and swipe your key fob over the sensor. voila! the car is yours for the time you've set aside for errands of all types.

the benefits of car sharing are many fold. but the big one is easy: you'll be green and save lots & lots o' green! (gas, insurance, repairs, tags, etc etc etc).

here's another shot of our beauty:

gerunding the day away

2010-08-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

hey all: today i will be praying, eating & lovin' my way through the day. i'm headed to an all-day LA-based retreat centered on the themes of Eat, Pray, Love.

RakSa Wellness Sala --my fave yoga joint-- has put together a day of meditation, yoga, ayruveda-based morning tea & lunch, along with a session titled: hypnosis for love, followed by a special presentation of the film.

this book is a treasure to me ... for the encouragement for women to wander & explore, for the importance of a woman's voice in first-person narrative (we need more women's stories!), for its appreciation for food & yoga & travel ... and even for the diverse reactions it elicits from women of all ages. i'm up for anything that gets us talking and connecting and sharing and recognizing the importance of our differences.

thank you, Elizabeth Gilbert, for taking us with you on the trip but mostly for braving the page and writing it down.

i dedicate my time on the mat today to girls and women everywhere who are unfolding the lotus petals of their dream, tuning in to their innate intuition, and cultivating their divine spark! the future of our world literally depends on our full participation as women, with all the beauty, foibles, wit and wisdom therein.

road trip!

2010-08-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

hey gang:
i'm lead-foot-lucying from OK to MD with my mom. i'll be back in the studio on Friday 8/13. i'm currently booked up on Friday & Saturday but i've got a waitlist going so feel free to call or email (you won't be able to book anything online for those times).

While I'm on the road, stay in touch with Facebook or Twitter!

Need a facial while I'm gone? call Jenn!
(310) 666-8427
jalfalee@gmail.com

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
sugaring: the need-to-know stuff
Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Products
Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Depilar

Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply book online, email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

the rave-ups:

2010-07-27T20:14:00.000-07:00

reviews for sugaring at be well {groomed!}

"By the way, it's been 3 weeks since my last appointment and I have to say the regrowth is great! It's still fairly smooth (especially where I have the peach fuzz above my brows)."
G in LA

"It hurt way less while removing the hair, and a few hours later, I feel absolutely nothing down there! No little tingling; no need to pop a painkiller. I am a sugaring convert."
J in LA

schedule update

2010-07-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

Angelenos! I'm making a break for it ... can't take this gorgeous cool weather anymore. Must have crazy heat & humidity so I'm flying into Oklahoma and will be away from the studio August 8 thru 12.

Need a deep peel to rid your skin of the sins of the sun? Jennifer Lee will be making good use of my room, offering her fab facials in Studio 41 while I'm away. Ya better hustle, tho; I think she is getting booked already!

how to get in touch with Jennifer Lee:
(310) 666-8427
jalfalee@gmail.com

more about Jennifer:
Jennifer Lee is a Celebrity Airbrush Tanning Specialist and an Esthetician. She started her career of Beauty in the art of Make Up for TV/Film then expanded to Esthetics. Jennifer Lee specializes in anti-aging and problem skin. She is well versed in the European style of skin care as well as clinical skin therapy. Jennifer enjoys seeing results from her work on her clients’ skin. She is involved in many charities and organizations including Touch for Cancer, an advanced aesthetic technique for people who are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation due to cancer.

Maximize Results: Depilar

2010-07-26T11:14:00.000-07:00

The Depilar System is a post-sugaring treatment that uses the latest in scientific research to provide effective and affordable lasting reduction of unwanted body hair for all sexes, races, hair colors, and hair types.

This new and enhanced enzyme-based formula provides efficacy rates exceeding other products of its kind on the market, including previous generations of enzyme-based hair removal and costly laser treatments.

Depilar is applied directly following sugaring and tweezing in successive and regular treatments over 16 to 24 months. With the Depilar System, there are just THREE simple steps to being hair free:

1>. the specific area is sugared, removing hair at the root
2>. Inhibitor Gel is applied and massaged into the skin
3>. Activator Gel is applied and massaged into the skin

Here's your per treatment cost:

$25 Underarms (aka u’rms)
$25 Face (each: lip, chin, cheeks)
$87 & up Cha-Cha Maintenance: basic bikini, bikini clean-up
$112 & up Clean Sweep: brazilian wax (with a little or no hair left “down there”)
$110 Back (includes neck)
$110 Chest (includes tummy)
$100 / $63 Arms (full/half; both include fingers)
$115 / $75 Legs (full/half; both include toes & knees)

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Products

Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

sugaring: need-to-know stuff

2010-07-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

Professional Body Sugaring is a truly progressive method for removing unwanted hair from the root. It's progressive multiple ways: utilizing sugar paste is an evolution in the epilation of hair AND the results are compounded with successive, timely treatments.

It's also considered progressive because the process used at be well {groomed!} requires certification. A practitioner must complete a 16 hour course and a two-part exam, both written theory and practical.

1. be well {groomed!} uses a love-your-skin (& the environment) sugar paste that is 100% natural and FREE of parabens, urea, dyes & all other irritating fillers. so pure you can even eat it (tho, let's not & say ya did!)

2. this specially formulated, pro-environment sugar paste does not stick to live cells ... this is one of the reasons why you leave with gently exfoliated glowing skin and little to no redness.

3. it's very economical because i'm removing hair from the root, in the direction of hair growth. over time the hair is finer and much depleted. you'll notice this improvement after just the 2nd sugaring.

4. the pure sugar paste dissolves with water ... easy to remove, never leaves you feeling sticky.

5. sugar paste is not hot and this is the other reason why your skin glows instead of showing edema & redness.

6. the sugar paste not only pure, it's hygienic, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.

7. there is no need to shave or wait for the hair to grow in between appointments. the technique i use combined with the specific sugar paste allows me to tackle shorter hairs (about 7 days growth) ===> less wait for the re-growth!

8. professional body sugaring works on all skin & hair types for all genders and on most parts of the body.

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Depilar

Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply book online, email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

Maximize Results: Products

2010-07-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

The keys to successful hair removal are consistency, exfoliation & hydration. Improving the condition of your skin will absolutely improve the results of hair removal. These products have been hand-selected for use at-home to provide stellar care for your skin through soothing serums and gentle, thorough exfoliation.

Flora-Flo ✒ Salycilic Acid is a gentle, thorough chemical exfoliator from the same source as aspirin (white willow bark). This economical, easy-to-use formula has no parabens, fragrance or dyes. About 3 days after sugaring, use 1-2x/day everyday. If no bumps develop, switch to 1-2x/day, 3-4 days/week. No need for a cotton pad, just apply to hands and then to sugared body part.
$12 for 4.4oz.

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
sugaring: the need-to-know stuff
Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Depilar

Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply book online, email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring

2010-07-26T11:02:00.001-07:00

First, a word about professional body sugaring in that very special region: ya gotta commit to doing it consistently. For most of us, that means every 4-5 weeks. There are a few lucky guys and gals who just don't grow much body hair; so they may only need to come in at 6-8 weeks.

Consistent, regular sugaring allows the skin's natural response system to grow accustomed to the process and prevents it from reacting with inflammation ... and, inflammation is the primary reason you get heat, bumps and irritation following epilation.

Once you set a monthly schedule for professional body sugaring, the post-sugar issues are minimized but the decrease in hair is maximized ... it's a win-win!!

So, these tips are primarily for clients and readers who are just beginning to sugar or have yet to commit to doing it consistently. If you "wintered" your bikini or have bumps because you let 3 months lapse since your last sugar, read on!

Immediately following your sugar:

Take it easy ... no exercise, no hot tub, no sand or surf, no sex, no working out. Consider this your pass to wear comfy, loose clothing and spend the evening lounging in front of the fire place with a great book.
Take action ... prior to your wax, purchase a calming cream like Phenomen-all. Avoid products that are heavily perfumed and don't overstimulate the skin by applying too many products too frequently. Use common sense and follow the recommendations for use on the packaging.

Two days after your sugar (and onward):

Gentle, consistent exfoliation is one of the best things you can do for your skin and this applies to your bikini zone, too. I prefer chemical and enzymatic exfoliation for this region. Physical exfoliation with loofahs and some scrubs can irritate and leave very small tears and scrapes on delicate skin.
I have a terrific salicylic acid serum that works fabulously. I recommend that you apply it once per day. If no bumps arise, you can down shift to 4 times per week. If you begin to see bumps, increase usage to 2 times per day.
Spot treat bumps or red, sensitive areas with a gentle clay mask like Mud Puddle. I love good clay masks and always keep one at the house. Clay doesn't dry the skin but helps to deep clean pores, improve circulation in the skin and draw out impurities ... which helps inflammation subside. So, apply a very small amount directly and only to the bumps; leave the mask on a minimum of 10 minutes.
Give your skin some hydration! I see a lot of dry bumms throughout my day ... don't skimp on moisture for this region. Find a soothing, emollient but zero perfume balm to lubricate your special parts. This will also prevent additional irritation from chafing fabrics or friction.
Feed your skin, too. Ensuring that you get Vitamins A, C, D & E as well as minerals and Essential Fatty Acids supports your skin's immune system and allows it to do it's job most effectively.
Manage your stress ... Yeah, yeah, I know. But seriously, the skin has a unique capability of exhibiting your internal stress. Want your skin to feel less itchy? Look into deep breathing, meditation, long walks, healing massage and facials to bring a little serenity to your day.
Drink water!

Reiteration of the important stuff:

Dos: Directly following the sugar session, please be gentle with your skin and apply soothing products designed for sensitive skin (see Maximize Results: Products). In between sessions, keep in-growns to a minimum with consistent, gentle exfoliation 3-4 times per week. For best results, do not shave or use depilatories between appointments. And, always apply an effective SPF to sugared areas.

DON'Ts: Following sugaring --where the hair is removed from the root-- your skin will have open follicles that are susceptible to irritation. To prevent redness, in-grown hairs and other adverse reactions avoid the following:
touching your freshly sugared skin, wet suits, sand, hot tubs, working out, spinning, extreme hot/cold, sweat, heat, abrasions, sun exposure

Occasionally --typically following the 1st & 2nd treatments-- smallish white bumps may appear. This is a normal hystological reaction when hair is removed at the root; it's simply your body's natural, protective response to the newly opened follicles. Do NOT squeeze these bumps. Instead, apply a thin layer of Mud Puddle and let it set for 15-20 minutes. Rinse gently with warm water and apply Phenomen-all. The bumps will go away on their own within 1-2 days.

The keys to successful hair removal are consistency, exfoliation & hydration. Improving the condition of your skin will absolutely improve the results of hair removal.

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
sugaring: the need-to-know stuff
Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Depilar

Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

Maximize Results: Pre-Sugaring

2010-07-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

So. You have finally decided to try removing hair from the nether regions ... maybe for the first time or perhaps the first time in a very long while. Here are a few pointers to get you ready and to ensure that you have the superb experience you're looking for.

If you've been consistent about depleting hair by the root, buy yourself a congratulatory glass of champagne for good behavior and know that some of these tips may not apply to you, even if you've not sugared before.

The keys to successful hair removal are consistency, exfoliation & hydration. Improving the condition of your skin will absolutely improve the results of hair removal.

1. Schedule your sugar appointment for a time that is convenient for you, when you can relax a bit before and after.

2. Three days prior (but not the day of your appointment), gently exfoliate the to-be-sugared region. Physical exfoliation via sugar scrubs and nylon loofahs works, but I prefer salicylic acid (I have a fabulous one!). If there is a chance you're pregnant, don't use salicylic and stick with a mild scrub.

3. If you've been shaving, you will need at least two weeks growth (yes, you can sugar earlier than with traditional wax). And, unfortunately, the first time after shaving is the least fun. You'll most likely be a bit stubbly following the sugaring and the hair will seem to return more quickly. It takes just three consistent sugar experiences to overcome the coarse hair and follicle damage of shaving.

4. On the day of your professional body sugaring, get excited; you're about to start a very hair-free part of your life! Either wear or throw into your bag some loose, comfy pants or a skirt. Make sure your skivvies aren't too tight or made of scratchy fabric. You might consider taking an anti-histamine (similar to Benedryl) or a pain reliever (such as Tylenol) that works for you. Also, limit caffiene and alcohol consumption; you don't need the additional stimulation or vasodilation for this event!

5. Mindful Magic: before you walk into Studio 41, remind yourself that this is going to be quick, you're going to love the results. Take a deep breath and set your sights on an easy, breezy event (it will be so!).

6. Prior to sugaring or immediately following your session, purchase some soothing, feel good body products. I recommend Phenomen-all immediately after sugaring along with Salt Spring, Mud Puddle & Flora-Flo for at-home care (check out more on these products {here}).

That's pretty much it! Please hop over to Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring for at-home care. Or, email or call me ... and, know this: I will take very good care of your skin and you will love the results!

Contraindications
While professional body sugaring provides superb results on all genders as well as all skin & hair types, there are a few situations when sugaring cannot be done:

Accutane: complete final phase at least 6 months before sugaring
Retin-A, Renova, Tazarac, Differin: discontinue use at least 3 months before sugaring
others include: Lupus, current sunburn, or severe skin rash

If this is your first experience with either hair removal or sugaring, I recommend these links:
sugaring: the need-to-know stuff
Maximize Results: Post-Sugaring
Maximize Results: Depilar
Ready to give your skin a sweet treat?
Simply email or call me at kenya [at] bewellgroomed.com / (310) 866-0928

be well {groomed!}'s favorite things:

2010-07-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

self-care dabbling: meditation

2010-07-24T13:01:00.000-07:00

just 2 weeks ... why not?

the Shambhala Sun Sept 2010 issue focuses on meditation: why, how, posture and more.

Norman Fischer's article Getting Started encourages anyone and everyone to try a morning meditation each day for a two-week period. and this seems ....... doable. i mean, 2 weeks is not really that long when you consider there are 50 others to get through.

the encouragement actually starts with the evening before:

"set your alarm for the half an hour earlier than usual, and say to yourself: 'Tomorrow morning I am going to get up to sit. I want to do this, and it is going to be pleasant and helpful.'"

his advice continues with:

"Be gentle with yourself, but firm ... It is much easier to commit to meditating almost every day for two weeks than committing yourself to meditate every day for the rest of your life."

right?!?

☛ so, here's what i'm thinkin':
i'm gonna do it; i'm gonna commit to trying an early morning sit for 2 weeks.
wanna join me? ☚

why meditate?
well, it's hard to specifically describe the end-result feeling, but i have previously dabbled in meditation & guided imagery/meditation just enough to know my body & sould want a meditation practice; they crave it; they tell me about it and consistently point me in that direction.

why might mediation be a part of self-care?
the science behind the benefits of mindful practices --including meditation-- has come a long way. if you need the research to convince you, check out Dr. Dan Siegel's books Mindsight & The Mindful Brain. one consistent result is the reduction in the overall effect of stress. and unmitigated stress reeks havoc on the body, including the skin. we can't get rid of stress so anything to lessen its impact is well worth doing! additionally, focusing on your breath increases the oxygen supplied to the skin. improved respiration delivers the force of life to your cells while also disposing of waste from the cell.

types of meditation:

you can actually just sit, noticing thoughts as they come up, acknowledging and then letting them go.
you can also focus on your breath and peform various breathing exercises during your sitting time.
here's one i like, based on the Metta Sutta (the Loving-Kindess Lecture of the Buddha): a practical meditation technique for developing kindness by focusing the mind on certain phrases & repeating them.

"May all beings be at ease."
"May all beings be safe & protectd from harm."
"May all beings be met with forgiveness."
"May all beings be free from suffering."
"May all beings be happy."

Noah Levine adds:

"Eventually the practice will need to be incorporated into all aspects of your life. Walking down the street, you can say, 'May all beings be at ease.' Driving down the freeway, you can say, 'May all beings be met with forgiveness.' And sitting at work, you can say, 'May all beings be happy, peaceful, and free.'"
(also in Shambhala Sun 09/21010)

yes, someday, all aspects of life ... for now, just 2 weeks!

sugar sugar

2010-07-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

sugar where? sugaring works from ‘brows to toes & all the nooks & crannies in between.

‘Brow Shaping $ 25
‘Brow Maintenance $ 15
Lip Area $ 10
Chin Area $ 10
Cheeks $ 15
Lip + Chin + Cheeks $ 30
Underarm $ 10
Upper Chest $ 30
Abdomen $ 25
Full Chest $ 50
Full Arm $ 50
Half Arm $ 25
Fingers $ 10
Bikini $ 35
Bikini + Upper Thigh $ 60
Bikini + Bum $ 55
Brazilian $ 45
Brazilian + Upper Thigh $ 70
Brazilian + Bum $ 65
Brozilian $ 75
Brozilian + Bum $ 95
Half Leg: Upper Thigh $ 30
Half Leg: Knee to Toes $ 35
Full Leg $ 55
Ears $ 15
Nose $ 10
Neck $ 10
Shoulders $ 25
Lower Back $ 25
Full Back $ 50
Bum $ 25
Toes $ 10

Depilar is a fantastic add-on to each of these areas except ‘Brow Shaping. For pricing, please contact your sugarista extraordinaire at (310) 866-0928 / kenya{at}bewellgroomed.com.

For more information on the powerful Depilar System, please click {here!}.

be well {groomed!}'s favorite things:

2010-07-19T11:00:00.001-07:00

the end of Sports Sunday

2010-07-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

tired of the incessant ESPN breaking into your peaceful Sunday? yeah, me tooooooo! so, be well {groomed!} has teamed up with Jennifer Lee, esthetician & makeup artist extraordinaire to offer facials at Studio 41 on Sundays & Mondays to bring a bit of spaaaaaah into the start of your week.

here's a peek at Jenn's menu

The Classic Facial: Beneficial for all skin types, this customized treatment includes skin analysis, pore cleansing, steam, exfoliation, extractions, face/scalp massage, customized mask, and mmmmmmmm-moisturizer ... all for $75

Microdermabrasion Facial: Designed to reduce fine lines, acne scars, sun damage & hyperpicmentation. This treatment follows all steps in the Classic Facial along with Microdermabrasion plus a hyaluronic mask for ultra soothing. $150

and more skin care treats await you, including C Pure, Corrective & Red Carpet Facials as well as protocols for gents! plus, she has created a one-of-a-kind-NEVER-orange spray tan guaranteed to leave you glowing and more than make up for all our recent cloudy days.

and, check out a review of Jenn's tanning expertise by clicking {here!}

how to get in touch with Jennifer Lee:
(310) 666-8427
jalfalee@gmail.com

at Studio 41:
Sundays & Mondays

more about Jennifer:
Jennifer Lee is a Celebrity Airbrush Tanning Specialist and an Esthetician. She started her career of Beauty in the art of Make Up for TV/Film then expanded to Esthetics. Jennifer Lee specializes in anti-aging and problem skin. She is well versed in the European style of skin care as well as clinical skin therapy. Jennifer enjoys seeing results from her work on her clients’ skin. She is involved in many charities and organizations including Touch for Cancer, an advanced aesthetic technique for people who are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation due to cancer.

celebration

2010-07-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

happy 4th of July and thank you to all who have and who continue to serve ... you are in our hearts & minds.

get it while i've got it!

2010-06-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

happy Friday!

starting tomorrow (6/26), i'll give a free sample of the Hungarian Wellness Mud/Mud Puddle to each lovely soul who comes in for an appointment.

this super-rich clay is loaded with minerals that your skin requires for its wellbeing. not only does it nourish your skin essential minerals & collagen, the mud also soaks up excess oil and deep cleans your follicles.

mix a little of the mud with water to deep clean your T-zone or prevent ingrown hairs. try mud & a smidge of moisturizer for mousse-ier treat for all over your face. or, add a dash to your bath for a full-body detox.

the benefits of Hungarian Wellness Mud are many ... but the free samples are limited!

directions, parking & such

2010-06-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

Kenya at Studio 41 / be well {groomed!}
SalonRepublic (formerly Chess & Burman Salons)
9911 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90035

The Building:
SalonRepublic is located at 9911 W. Pico Blvd. It's a bright blue building on the corner of Beverly Green Drive and is located between Century Park East and Roxbury on Pico (just east of Fox Studios).

The Parking Garage:
We validate for parking (such a nice treat in LA!): $1 for first two hours; $1.50 all day on Saturday & Sunday. The parking garage is detached and just east on Pico at the light for Ambassador Street. It's a white building with a 24-Hour Fitness sign on front.

Once you've parked, you should take the elevator to the street level then walk west on the sidewalk to the SalonRepublic front door.

SalonRepublic Entrance:
We have our own entrance (so, don't go through the doors behind the big, silver 9911). You'll see us up a small flight of stairs and next to a bamboo art piece. (If stairs don't work for you, you can take the elevator from the garage to our floor Tuesday thru Saturday, 9am-7pm).

I'm in Studio #41, so walk in the front door, turn right and take the first left. That's me on your left. And, of course you can call, text or email should you have any difficulties on your first visit.

If you're the visual sort, you might like to see our locale via Google.

credit where credit is due

2010-06-12T08:57:00.000-07:00

last fall i read an article ... maybe in FastCompany, maybe a snippet on Twitter. who can remember these things, right?

anyhoodle, the article led me to Vittana, through which i signed up to make a microloan to assist Marjorie in Nicaragua get her degree in Business Administration. wow, it felt good to help another woman pursue an education.

it felt so good that during the first quarter of 2010 that i made a second microloan --again through the fabulousness that is Vittana-- to Benilda in Paraguay so that she could pursue a degree in Education.

Marjorie is already repaying her loan and that money flows back into my Vitanna account. i'll use her repayment and a bit more of my own money to fund a third woman this quarter.

this all seems simple until you really stop to think about the work on the ground and behind the scenes that makes all this possible. fairly incredible, don't ya think?

got an extra $25 burning a hole in your pocket? log on to Vittana to see how you might be able to put that latte money to work! then, send me an email and let me know about your experience. i can guarantee you it will be one of the best feeling to-dos on your list!

freshen up!

2010-06-11T08:57:00.001-07:00

FreshGuide recently launched in LA, bringing Angeleno's their tasty local features and amazing discounts.

today's freshie fresh offer is .... superb waxing or sugaring at be well {groomed!} and, it's available to new & existing clients. just hop over to FreshGuide & snag the deal.

yep, that's right ... in just two weeks i'll be launching professional body sugaring here at be well {groomed!} / Studio 41. keep checking back for all the scoop here or Register as a client and i'll send you an email.

'til then, stay fresh!

lovely new products to nourish your skin

2010-06-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

the upcycled gold retail shelves at Studio 41 are no longer empty ... instead they are laden with skin care treasures expertly designed to keep your skin in oo la la condition!

first up, the afore-mentioned Hungarian Wellness Mud. gang, this stuff is sooooooo lovely! just yesterday a client visited and she had a bit of break out going on along with some general redness. i mixed the clay mask with a hydrating & healing moisture treatment and she left with calm, refreshed skin!

it's called Mud Puddle and it's even more fun than the name: you can soak in the tub with it for an all over detox & deep clean. or, mix a little clay with an avocado that's just a bit too ripe for a hydrating treat. feeling over-oily & suspecting a looming break out? mix the mud with water for a more firming mask to soak up excess oil.

next, i want each of you to get to know Salt Spring. these are mineral-rich salts from the Dead Sea that you can mix with your own oil to create a gentle but thorough body exfoliant. or, add them to your tub time for a detoxing, exfoliating, nourishing soak. or, mix them with warm water, put in a spritz bottle, let cool then spritz on your face and leave for 30 minutes. you'll be toned & soothed.

but wait, there's more!

out of Africa comes Carapa Procera and it's in two of my new goodies: Comforte & Injabulo.
Comforte delivers PMS cramp relief in a super-soothing shea base. designed by a 13-year-old who needed to alleviate her cramps to get on the soccer field, Comforte uses sustainably harvested, natural ingredients.

Injabulo also contains Carapa Procera and Calatropis Procera in a shea base along with an essence of menthol to give you muscle and tension relief. And, there are ZERO dyes, FD&Cs, fragrances, parabens and fillers. Only the good stuff, baby!

Phenomen-all is oh-so-aptly named! The natural, pure ingredients (shea, jojoba, sesame, calendula, clary sage, rosewood, grapefruit & ylang ylang will replenish your skin, smooth scars and eliminate imperfections. Smells fab; feels divine!

plus, i've completely re-stocked on the best damned SPF in both the tinted and non-tinted versions!

see you soon!

resonating

2010-06-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

Be true to yourself.
Make each day a masterpiece.
Help others.
Drink deeply from good books.
Make friendship a fine art.
Build a shelter against a rainy day.

Joshua Wooden
Indiana

masks ahoy!

2010-06-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

hello lovelies!
the sunshine is here ... and speaking of shine, you know i love a great clay mask to help soak up the extra oil and keep follicles free from debris. (check out mash notes to clay mask in this past post, and this one too!)

i've found a terrific new line of clay made with Hungarian Wellness Mud, a superbly mineral-rich soil that you can treat your skin with as a mask or while soaking in the tub.

i've also heard from a gorgeous client that the DDF Sulfur mask has helped clear up the occasional breakout of bacne due to her summer-prep pilates/spinning routine.

need to re-stock? looking for a 1-2 x/week treatment for clearer skin? check it out:

SalonRepublic

2010-06-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

there is a fancy schmancy new sign on the corner of Beverly Green & Pico, plus a few more changes to come.

here's the scoop: Chess & Burman is now SalonRepublic. and there is a swanky new web site, too, that includes info for all four locales.

i'll post a pic & update the parking info soon.

always be learnin'

2010-05-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

whew! i just set out on a new venture that will bring superb products & services to be well {groomed!} and Studio 41. and i am wiped out. what is it about sitting in a classroom that exhausts the noggin so?

stay tuned for more info on the new skin treats & goodies. all the cool kids (a.k.a. Registered Clients) will hear the news first AND have the opportunity to try these services at a special rate for a limited time. see what i'm doing here, letting the anticipation build ... can you stand it?!?

schedule update

2010-05-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Tulsa Time
I'll be out of town Sunday thru Wednesday (May 16-19) ... traveling, hanging out with Geneva, sipping wine with Mom etc. etc. So, I won't be able to answer email or have access to my scheduler. But don't despair, you can book an appointment online in just a few quick clicks starting {here!}.

If it's your first time to the online booking site, you'll need to click on Register and provide a few details. Then, you'll be ready to rumble!

Fun in the Summer Sun
Next, I'm heading back to Ooooooooklahoma June 17-21 for my lil' bro's college graduation celebration {Go Pokes!}. Yes, I absolutely will bring back some of that sweet jalapeno-flavored wine (you didn't even have to ask!).

What's up your sleeve for getaways? Let's hear it!

my favorite skin saver

2010-05-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

i've found the loveliest sunscreen. TiZo3 SPF 40 is sheer, glides on like silk and gives your skin a soft, matte finish while it provides very water resistant protections.

Titanium, Zinc & Iron Oxide for full spectrum UVA/UVB protection
very water & sweat resistant, up to 80 minutes
excellent for sensitive skin
soothing as a post-sun/beach serum
NO chemical sunscreen filters (better for you & the environment)
NO parabens, dyes, fragrances, oils, PABA

multiple sizes of highly reflective micronized particles of titanium & zinc are combined with multiple antioxidants and trace elements to counteract free-radical damage & increase protection of the skin.

the light, natural tint works for most all skin shades and will never leave a blue tint or greasy film. soooooo easy to reapply (even when you're running late for an appointment!).

but it's not available online; only at Studio 41 ... see ya there!

water on my mind

2010-05-04T11:26:00.001-07:00

friends & family now boil water in Boston. the Gulf States & Florida Keys watch the daily encroachment of a man-made disaster oozing their way. it is a tough time to be a water drop.

if you have never been to the Louisiana wet lands, i am sorry. you have missed out on an amazing ecosystem filled with magnificent flora & fauna. looking at the pictures of oil-slicked water fowl, dead sea turtles, and incoming waves of deadly muck make my heart twist and hurt ... hurt enough that i would very much like to see these pictures posted at every single gas station pump so that we are reminded of the TRUE cost of what we're pumping into our convenience mobiles. sigh.

but wait, i did start typing with the thought of water, and usually you will find a reminder to "drink more water" on this blog. today all things H2O bring thoughts of conservation.

there are many ideas, tips and suggestions for using less water in your day-to-day. one of ours at home is to wash our dishes in tubs that fit in our sinks. (yep, we wash by hand at Chez Chats...which reminds me of a good Willie Nelson joke: did you hear about the cook who got his thumb caught in the dishwasher? they both got fired. heh).

once we've washed up our dishes or rinsed our veggies, we hoist the tub outside and use it to water our lawn, nasturtiums-gone-wild, rosemary, lavender, bamboo, roses, herbs, evergreens etc etc. occasionally we do the same with our tub water. this saves us buckets of valuable groundwater and gives us a garden that helps feed us. yeah, yeah it takes a bit of effort and sometimes the neighbors look askance at us, but it is totally worth it.

what are your favorite ways to save water? and as you're typing that in, take a moment to hold the land and ocean of the Gulf States, the people there and all our friends in the animal kingdom near and dear to your heart ... they could use a little tenderness.

be well!

quarterly dose of self-care

2010-04-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

years and years ago i was in a business meeting when one of my cohorts finalized a point of the presentation with: "Of course, we all know that fashions change quarterly." we happened to be in a room with actual movers and shakers of the fashion world and needless to say his statement caused lots of 'brow movement and looks that reflected an inner dialogue of "what did he just say?!?"

and whilst fashionistas may not have gotten the quarterly memo, it does seem fairly easy to track all sorts of cycles using the quarter mark. if it's good enough for Momma Earth, why not the rest of us goddesses, eh?

budgeting resources for a quarterly facial is a fabulous thing to do for your skin and your overall wellbeing.

the first quarter is almost over (can ya believe it!?!?) ... come on in!

PS: i'm offering a quarter-pack special: 4 facials for $300. that's 10buckaroos off on each facial. sweet!

PSS: this offer is for a limited time and may just go away "poof" at any time. the facials should be used within one year of purchase. enjoy!

my 1% goes 50/50 this year

2010-04-05T12:12:00.000-07:00

if you own a small business, then you feel me on this: starting the year is expensive! BOE taxes, biz licenses, LLC taxes, taxes taxes, and on it goes. May Day is a welcome site; of course, then we get to pay in our quarterly estimated tax but that is a bit less time sensitive (or, it is the way i do it) (ahem).

there is a bright spot: my very favorite annual, first quarter expense is my 1% for the Planet donation and membership dues. you log on to 1%'s web site and peruse the thousands of non-profits who are doing great work for our planet. it takes some time not only to sort through but also because you can become quite involved in each group's mission, web site, program reports and more.

this year, i found two programs that seemed to be doing hands-on, grass roots work that included strong education components. i'm kinda in love with the work these two orgs. do for our planet.

and my annual 1% donation goes to: {drum roll, please}

YouthLaunch's urban roots in Austin, TX

The Center for Wildlife in Cape Neddick, ME

check'em out and let me know if you dig them as much as i do.

are you a biz owner? i encourage you to join me and 1200 other businesses in dedicating 1% for the Planet. consider yourself served!

feeding blogger

2010-04-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

i had just finished having a good ol' time writing about the Green Smoothie Challenge when blogger gobbled up my post. sigh.

i'll give the post a go at a later date. as of now, i must visit with a lovely client.

in the meantime, enjoy Jamie Oliver's TED Talk; it's powerful & delish! then, click here to join Jamie and me in the Food Revolution! bon apetite!

be well {groomed!}

2010-04-01T15:51:00.000-07:00

as seen in the LA Times!

dreaming of a bit less hair here & there?

2010-03-29T11:57:00.001-07:00

this weekend, the LA Times took a look at the advancements in hair removal in Kavita Daswani's article: Smooth Skin with Less Pain.

and they mentioned yours truly along with Depilar, my partners in helping you live in hair-free luxury. the team from Depilar recently stopped by Studio 41 to chat about the successes clients are having and to dish on new products they're considering. they are extremely committed to bringing eco-fabulous, skintastic products to the market!

thank you to everyone who took time to read the article and send me notes of encouragement. it was lovely to be included and am excited that more people will learn you can remove hair from your body without damaging it!

now, ima go do some stretching. a very good friend hosted me in the floor section at the Black Eyed Peas show last night and after THREE hours of dancing, i am feeling it ... in a good way!

to my Mom, far away but always close: LOVE YOU!

2010-03-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

{gorgeous card design by Elum Letterpress,
purchased at the dangerously delectable Paper Source}

slainte!

2010-03-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

rollin' in the clover are ye, lads and lasses? it is a fine day for a holiday, and one of my very favorites indeed.

this year, i've changed it up a bit. no green beer in store for me because today i kicked off a 10-Day Green Smoothie Challenge with the Green Smoothie Queen. i tell you, the Green Smoothie Queen is sending ripples of healthy, vibrant love 'round the world!

not up for 10 days of veggie-blendin' bliss? try the FREE 3-Day Green Smoothie mini-course by clicking here!

i know, i know, there was that one time at band camp, you tried going veggie and it just wasn't for you. but take a glorious deeeeep breath and hear me out: it's OK. this is just a fun, supportive way to get more veggies into your day.

the official challenge is to make every meal a smoothie for 10 days. but i adapted that a bit so that my personal challenge for the next 10 days is to drink one freshly made green smoothie per day. i usually fit in 2 per week so i think making 1 super-charged drink each day for 10 days is the perfect stretch for me.

today i juiced carrots (with the tops), beet greens, kale, a black arkansas apple, and lemons along with parsley and cilantro (from my garden :). then i blended the veggie juice with ice cubes made from raw cane super juice. lip-smackin' good!

so lift your glass o' green for a toast:

There are good ships,
and there are wood ships,
The ships that sail the sea.
But the best ships, are friendships,
And may they always be.

why not everyday?

2010-03-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

today is International Women's Day. i honestly don't know that much about the reason for the event or its focus but i'm all for celebrating!

in obeservance, the Hub allowed me to pick our day-off activity and i say "let's take a hike, buddy!" so, it's off to Topanga we go.

tonight, the celebration continues: i'm attending a Ladies Who Launch event featuring La Tranquilista, Kimberly Wilson.

and, when i get home, i'm logging in for the first global call of the Women's International Summit for Health {W.I.S.H.}. tonight's topic: Sensuality!

it is not too late to do a little celebratin', even if this holiday snuck up on you as it did me. look at all the fabulous women in your life and take a moment just to tell them you appreciate them. as a woman, i assure you that there is really nothing more prized than a little heartfelt gratitude. it feels good to give it and get it.

so THANK YOU to all the amazing women who have touched my life: My Mom, Grandmothers, Aunties, Sisters-in-Law, Cousins, Friends, Co-Workers, Bosses, Leaders, my Clients! women who have paved the way, gone first, stood up, asked questions, made room, persevered, shaken the status quo and often made it home in time to cook dinner.

kinda makes me wonder if i've earned it ....

allergic to single view reporting

2010-03-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

this morning i went ol' school and wrote a letter to a printed newspaper. so as not to be totally retro, here's a thoroughly modern link to an online version of the printed article that encouraged me to pipe up with my two bits. and, below is my letter.

"Dear Editors:
During the health care debate, it's appropriate to include more articles that focus on prevention, hopeful cures and overall wellbeing. But I was disappointed in Walecia Konrad's reporting in Saturday's "A Child's Allergies..."

The article would have been more balanced and informative if the reporter had spoken with a parent, naturopath, acupuncturist or holistic practitioner that has helped children breathe more freely without the addition of pills and shots.

And there was no mention of how our chosen lifestyle lies at the root of allergic rhinitis. As a nation, we spend the majority of our sedentary lives indoors under artificial lights, while sitting on chemically treated textiles and surrounding ourselves with gadgets that keep our attention roaming and our adrenal glands tapped. This bubble of wall-to-wall carpet is extended through transportation in vehicles that spew exhaust into the air. Plus, we fuel this current way of being with preserved, processed foods often loaded with saturated fats and sugars which leave little room for fresh vegetables, fruits and pure water on our menus.

Learning to focus on the breath (consistently but especially when it becomes difficult to breathe), moving the body, choosing tastier, more nutritious foods, redefining how we clean and decorate our homes ... these are among short- and long-term solutions that can make a real difference in everyone's lives, those with a runny nose and without. It ain't sexy, it ain't as easy as a popping a pretty pill, but it works."

dialogue is paramount in the evolution of our wellbeing and how we relate to each other. let's dive in and swim around in thought and action together.

skin care, it's essential!

2010-03-02T08:13:00.000-08:00

happy March, lovelies...isn't it interesting how difficult it is to put a monetary value on doing something you love? i think so too.

i've spent some time ruminating and meditating on this and the result is that the Essential Facial will be $85 going forward (versus $75 as it has been for the past five years). the increase will allow me to continue to procure the very best in products for my treatments ... and i look forward to treating your one and only skin with these goods at the studio!

by the way, have you experienced the new blueberry exfoliating treatment? a chirally correct, botanical formula made of a proprietary mix of fruit acids & enzymes, supported by blueberry puree (collagen boosting, hydrating antioxidant), plus red wine, wild cherry bark, red grape and lycopene extracts. this protocol is deeeedddlish and leaves your skin feeling smooth and firm. but, hey, don't just take my word for it ... invest some time in your skin!

home but not forgotten

2010-02-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

ahoy, mateys! the landlubbers are back onshore, though our equilibrium still insists on a setting more appropriate for a sailing vessel. doesn't it seem odd to have land sickness without ever having sea sickness? ah well, the price of paradise.

the hub took on the role of official photog and he's working on getting the pics up on our mac.com site ... stay tuned for images of water in shades of blues and greens that boggle the mind. ETA: pics are up!

s/v Lapidus showered us with lavish spreads for lunch and dinner, rum punch sun downers, morning green smoothies, fantastic sailing and cozy berths ... not to mention dinghy rides to the very best in conch fritters, snorkeling, swimming piggies, and beaches made for the extreme sport of shelling.

we swam with the fishies at the Thunderball Cave (wanna feel popular? squirt some cous cous around you and enjoy the frenzy), oggled Captain Jack's beaches, sipped Kaliks and squawked on the VHF.

s/v Solar Eclipse added to the delicousness of the sailing and dining adventures and we're looking forward to spending some more time with them, too ... when? not sure when that tide will turn but we like knowing we've got options on the horizon, n'est ce pas?

while onboard i read the Lost Symbol (which --quelle surprise-- complemented my existing reading material beautifully (The Mindful Brain)) and am now wrapping up An Embarrassment of Mangoes, a tasty introduction to s/v Lapidus's approximate future sailing chart. and, i've just ordered the author's latest: The Spice Necklace (ETA: the new tome is available for pre-order but won't ship until June of this year).

am doing my knock-out best to catch up with everyone on email but the computer screen exasperates the slooshing feeling in my head ... so patience, my friends; i'll see you all at Studio 41 very soon!

gone sailing

2010-02-13T10:48:00.001-08:00

as you read this, i'm storming the high seas aboard s/v Lapidus. alas, my career as a buccaneer will be short-lived; i'll be back at Studio 41 before you can say "yo-ho-ho!"

in the meantime, matey, here are some links to help you book an appointment from the comfort of your computer, purchase a gift certificate, or enjoy some retail therapy.

you can also view the skin care menus for waxing and facials.

or, sail vicariously via Twitter {ahoy!}.

want some more options?
ponder a true foodie revolution. indulge in some poetry. consider active transportation.

or, even better ... stretch your body, breathe oh-so deeply, and go for a long, mindful walk.

'til we meet here again ... it's boat drinks, baby!

so happy to see you here!

2010-01-27T11:20:00.001-08:00

i've got so many wonderful things to talk with you about ... ideas percolating and stuff i want your feedback on. but, at the same time, my body & soul are more and more frequently nudging me away from the computer. not that there is anything inherently wrong with sitting in front of my computer ... i'm so thankful for the inspirational online communities i've found and for new ways to connect with friends. it's just the body wants what the body wants.

so, i'm off to experience a newly opened, local yoga joint. looks like the kind of place i'd like to hang out. and, if time permits, i'll tell you all about it.

meanwhile, what is it your body most wants you to do? tune in to your breath and connect with that fascinating physical vehicle ... you might be in for an adventure!

namaste

Pssst: put me to work to raise funds for V-Day's Haitian Relief. book your appointment for this week via online!

tweet tweet: maca

2010-01-22T11:40:00.000-08:00

earlier today i tweeted:

"Doubled the amounts of raw cacao & maca in almond milk I made this morn. Hub drank it w/out so much of a word or a glance. Now that's love!"

my twitter account is connected to Facebook (nice bit of multi-tasking, that), so once my tweet arrived on FB, a curious friend replied: "What's maca?"

i view maca as a superfood with specific nutritional qualities to aid in my overall vitality. read more about it here. and, here too.

i add the dried root --in powdered form-- to my cereals (hot & cold), the almond milk i make at home, any smoothies (fruit or veggie) and to nutbutter sandwiches. all in all, i usually have 1 to 2 servings a day.

because of maca's overall positive effect, it's one of the "hot" herbal ingredients and as such, it's important to purchase organically grown and sustainably harvested product. and, like any foodstuff, you should not add maca to every single meal (unless you are addressing a specific issue under the guidance of a naturopath, nutritionist or doctor). this last bit seems like common sense but we often get excited about new products and overdo it (ahem).

here's a link to organic maca so that you can order up your very own bag and start adding it to your goodies. if i were the baking sort, i would definitely add it to a yummy cupcake (hint, hint!).

be well {nourished!}

2010-01-21T15:40:00.000-08:00

isn't it interesting how gaining a little bit of knowledge on a specific subject can make you hungry for more, more, more?

studying holistic nutrition seemed to just nick the surface. i'm now working on my herbology studies and i've been spending time with fellow foodies with different perspectives. some focus on raw foods, while others are experts at foraging for wild foods. and most of'em --like me-- are interested in helping others learn to really nourish their bodies so that they thrive.

Dr. Ritamarie is definitely a leader in helping others experience eating for robust vitality and she's been generously doing so for over 20 years. need some new recipes to get excited about nourishing your body? in the mood for a home study course on taming stress? click over to her site and pop a couple of ebooks and audio lectures into your shopping cart ... feed your body, mind & soul!

taking action

2010-01-14T13:09:00.000-08:00

Update: Hearts and wallets open wide in hopes of providing relief to Haiti. I've now got a $1.5 match to every $1 I raise. So, come on in and put me to work...for good!

we're just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Valentine's Day. and each year, i donate $1 from each client visit to V-Day, the global movement that funds initiatives to stop violence against women and girls.

but sometimes things happen that rock your world and the usual just doesn't cut it. as you know, Haiti was recently hit with a catastrophic earthquake and to provide immediate aid to the women and girls of Haiti --who suffer some of the worst poverty in the world and the most violent conditions for women-- V-Day has established the Haiti Rescue Fund.

in support of this fund, i'm starting the donations early. beginning today --Jan 14, 2010-- and through the end of the month, i will donate $1 from each client visit to this special V-Day Fund.

{click here} to make your donation. or, you can match my donation when you visit me at the studio.

thank you for the truly awesome opportunity to provide support to other women in their time of need and for entrusting me with your one and only skin ... i am honored.

be well {linked!}

2010-01-11T11:12:00.001-08:00

Sundays and Mondays are my get re-acquainted with my Hub & Home time. We go for hikes, work in the yard, twist up in yoga and are generally separated from our computers for long periods of bliss.

So, it may take me a bit longer to respond to email, voicemail and text. I've put together some links to show you around including making an appointment, getting a gift certificate and more.

Check'em out:

Book an appointment online {super easy and quick! But, if you don't find the time that best fits your schedule, email or call me and we'll see what can be done}

Need a rockin' gift from the convenience of your desk to help your BFF celebrate? {Voila, instant Gift Certificate!}

Peruse Studio 41's skin care menus for superb waxing & fab facials.

In the mood for some retail therapy? Or, need a great product for your skin? Got a hankering for some spicey Kale Chips? {Click here and browse be well {groomed} partners like DermStore, TranquiliT eco-luxe clothing, The Raw Food World and more}

Still up for poking around? Here are some thoughts on mitigating stress, the benefits of facial massage, what i really think about body hair, and pondering our impact on Mother Earth.

More than anything, I like to hear your thoughts so feel free to comment, email, call or convo topics to the Studio for your appointment.

Have fun out there ... and tell me, "What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"

bon mot

2010-01-05T15:17:00.000-08:00

"If you observe your breath without manipulating it, it will start to slow down. The breath leads the body. It is the thoughtless, physical response mirroring the movement of consciousness. You cannot hide your true feelings and reactions from your breathing. As you continue to observe your breath, you will feel calm and centered. Your thoughts will settle down and the external stress will not seem so threatening. You are actually changing your vibration at the level of being."

Deepak Chopra
The Ultimate Happiness Prescription

hydration station

2010-01-04T17:23:00.000-08:00

one of my {many} intentions for this sparkly New Year is to provide more Q&A here on ye ol' bloggity blog. i spend my days chatting with clients and other skin care enthusiasts so why not share?

here is a question i hear consistently during this time of year: my moisturizer isn't cutting it; what can i do about my parched skin?

holla back if you can relate ... and at this time of year, most everyone can. the air is often naturally less humid and even more so once heaters kick in. so, that moisturizer you love may not be enough.

but don't toss it or, if it's a fairly full bottle, don't rush out to buy a new one. instead, help out your beloved moisturizer by adding a hydrating serum to the mix.

the types of serums that work best during the dry months add lubrication to your skin's surface while also providing a barrier to prevent the dehydration of the naturally occurring water in your skin.

here are a few to check out:

Bioelements Recovery Serum: this is the motherload of skin sealants, and that is exactly what it does: seals in the moisture and keeps the drying elements away from your skin. Recovery Serum is unique in that it goes on last, AFTER your moisturizer. and you can use it anywhere: face, lips, eyes, neck, chest, hands ... with glorious results!

Skincredible! Sandalwood Revitalizing Elixer gives fab results for all skin types so it's an especially great serum to use if you're feeling dry but have other issues to tackle as well. The botanical mix is pure and divine ... give it a go!

another serum infused with 100% organic plant ingredients, Alchemilla's Rosewood Rehydrating Essence gives you potent emolliency along with highly active essential oils (so you're feeding the skin while you're hydrating ... this is the healthy version of multi-tasking ;). this serum also comes in Rose and Neroli and both are lovely (i just happen to prefer the Rosewood).
just {click here} to peruse the Alchemilla's delish goodies for yourself!

now, there are definitely other things you can do to feel more comfortable in your skin. here's a quick list:

drink more water while limiting booze & caffeine and cutting out sodas
eat hydrating foods like avocados, flax seed, EVOO, fresh fruits & veggies
get plenty of rest; your body just works more efficiently this way
limit baths and showers and if you must dunk, do it temperately. extreme hot & cold can further dry the skin.
and, lastly: get thee some shea butter! i use shea butter head-to-toe and while it is greasy when you first put it on, once it soaks in your skin will give you a full body hug and an audible Hallelujah! check the label to ensure that the product is sustainably harvested and pure (no fragrances, additional oils etc). hop over to the Raw Food World and snag theirs!

Planet Pandora by way of Nevada, Part II

2010-01-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

i wrote Part I earlier today but have decided to tuck it away, much like the letter to a boss that is best never sent.

now, i'm trying to get my thoughts focused but the emotions still roil in my stomach.

here's the deal: the Bureau of Land Management has chosen the extremes of winter weather and the distraction of the holiday season to begin a muster of wild horses in Nevada.

this type of "management" happens every few years and is always gussied up as "in the best interest of the animals." however, most anyone with even a mild involvement in a fellow being's health would not choose extreme seasonal weather to cause undue stress. and, clandestine operations at oddly chosen times always make me circumspect.

is it the gold in them thar hills? is it the need for more grazing land? or, is it simply because they wanted to do it? of course, situations are a complex sum of reasons but this one seems to distill down rather easily to "SEE TAKE WANT" ... not unlike the storyline in Avatar.

i'm not disappointed ... that is far too light of word. i feel grief. i grieve for the ponies who simply live their lives as they always have. i grieve for the declining number of wild things in our world. i grieve for those who have hardened themselves to empathy for a fellow being and can make this type of decision. i grieve for those who do not question an order and for those who can find a way to terrorize another being with something like a helicopter because "it's more convenient."

really? a helicopter? that's so un-horsemanlike that in itself it provides enough irony to leave a bitter, metal taste in my mouth.

please join me in taking action, in the best way i know:

let's take a moment to sit quietly. allow the breath to come as it will for a few seconds. when you're ready, take a deep. as you breathe in the life giving oxygen, think on the many blessings you have in your life. as you breath out, feel how grateful you are ... wriggle your toes, stretch your spine. in breath: feeling blessed. out breath: sharing gratitude.

spend some time here, focused on your breath and feeling your way.

wow. that feels damn good.

now, let your feelings guide you. maybe you will make a call to your representative, the White House or a friend. maybe you'll hug a loved one and that emotion will fill the world with hope. maybe you'll adopt a pet, make a donation or make plans to do this again later today, tomorrow, soon.

it's nice to know we have each other!

the light in me sees and recognizes the light in you ... peace!

2010 vision: spindrift gaze toward paradise

2010-01-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

when you've moved far away from your home...and your mom lives happily on a boat, sailing amongst islands...and the love of your life is a dashing poet. and you recently had your mind blown by a 3D CGI'd movie that most made you want to get outdoors on a long hike adventure ...well then, starting a new year with a poem --specifically this poem-- makes absolute sense.

from VOYAGES II
And yet this great wink of eternity,
Of rimless floods, unfettered leewardings,
Samite sheeted and processioned where
Her undinal vast belly moonward bends,
Laughing the wrapt inflections of our love;

Take this Sea, whose diapason knells
On scrolls of silver snowy sentences,
The sceptred terror of whose sessions rends
As her demeanors motion well or ill,
All but the pieties of lovers' hands.

And onward, as bells off San Salvador
Salute the crocus lustres of the stars,
In these poinsettia meadows of her tides, --
Adagios of islands, O my Prodigal,
Complete the dark confessions her veins spell.

Mark how her turning shoulders wind the hours,
And hasten while her penniless rich palms
Pass superscription of bent foam and wave,--
Hasten, while they are true, --sleep, death, desire,
Close round one instant in one floating flower.

Bind us in time, O Season clear, and awe.
O minstrel galleons of Carib fire,
Bequeath us to no earthly shore until
Is answered in the vortex of our grave
The seal's wide spindrift gaze toward paradise.

Hart Crane

wishing you all a very spectacular New Year!

15% off at The Raw Food World

2009-12-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

the hub has ixnayed the purchase of a dehydrator for, well, an indeterminate amount of time. so, i just up and ordered some yummy kale chips!

and, tah-dah, i also learned that you can get 15% off your purchase at The Raw Food World (excluding appliances) by using this code:
HOLIDAY18

i also ordered additional nut milk bags (have been making my own almond milk and LOVIN' it!) as well as the Jake Unbaked bars and a few other packaged goods. what's on your list?

vintage pro-peace

2009-12-27T09:39:00.000-08:00

every holiday spent together, the hub & i have combed papers looking for Yoko Ono's annual pro-peace message. this morning we spotted one of the ads in the NY Times so we logged on to the Imagine Peace site and found eloquent beauty.

for 2010, my biggest hope is to be --mindfully and purposefully-- one of the millions of Small Pebble People, consistently offering the world peace, acceptance, vibrancy, frolicking, well being and other affairs of the heart. and, it seems that today is a fine day to start ... again.

we're going full-tilt Fezziwig 'round here!

2009-12-24T11:34:00.000-08:00

"Scrooge was better than his word. He did it all, and infinitely more; and to Tiny Tim, who did NOT die, he was a second father. He became as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man, as the good old city knew, or any other good old city, town or borough, in the good old world. Some people laughed to see the alteration in him, but he let them laugh, and little heeded them; for he was wise enough to know that nothing ever happened on this globe, for good, at which some people did not have their fill of laughter in the outset; and knowing that such as these would be blind anyway, he thought it quite as well that they should wrinkle up their eyes in grins, as have the malady in less attractive forms. His own heart laughed: and that was quite enough for him.

He had no further intercourse with Spirits, but lived upon the Total Abstinence Principle, ever afterwards; and it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God Bless Us, Every One!"

{excerpted from the timeless Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens and inspired by a thorough listening to these past days, as wonderfully read by Tim Curry via a stellar production by Audible)

rawllicking holidays

2009-12-18T19:26:00.000-08:00

i've got a new partner to introduce for your shopping pleasure: The Raw Food World, a fabulous resource for raw-focused goodies including superfoods, supplements, appliances and beauty treats.

now, just to clarify, i'm not a vegan or 100% raw or many other qualifiers. but, i do try to get lots of plants in my diet and one raw meal per day. this is toooootally easy as a salad, a couple of pieces of fruit, a green smoothie ... all these items are easy raw meals and give your body the nutrients that convert best to energy.

as a devout dabbler, i enjoy tasting all styles of livin'. and i LOVE watching Matt & Angela's mini-shows on raw recipes and tips. check'em out, then if you feel inspired, check out their store.

eat well, my friends!

Psssst: i made the recipe in the video below last night and it was deeeeelish! a few notes: you do NOT need to use your hands to mix kale & avocado together. i used a double spoon technique to blend. also, i used organic white onion instead of onion sprouts (tho, i will be sprouting this weekend ... stay tuned!). and i loved putting the kale in my food processor (i have a mini-size, not fancy at all but still does the trick); the minute dicing really brings out the juiciness of this superfood. buzz me back and lemme know how it works for you!

Vegas, baby!

2009-12-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

I'll be away from the computer and Studio 41 for the full of today & tomorrow. Of course, of course, I'll be back right away on Tuesday.

Since you're here, peruse the links below. And, should you have any questions at'all, feel free to email or call. I'll buzz ya back on the flip side.

Need a holiday gift? Might a suggest an Instant Gift Certificate {et, voila!}

Is your skin in the need of TLC? Click here for a facial Q&A and here for Le Menu.

Questions about waxing? Check out the Wax Menu and also this post, and maybe this one.

Or, you can also make an appointment.

Wanna keep up with me while Garth Brooks serenades me in Vegas? Catch my tweets or friend me up!

In the mood for some savings on great products for your skin and some eco-chic clothes?

Or, just wanna shop around?

Now, go do something really fabulous for you and your skin like maybe a bit of yoga, a walk outside, a moisturizing treatment and of course, some deeeeeep belly breaths.

And, enjoy!

knockin round in my noggin:

2009-12-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

"Problems are not cured; they are not enemies to be eliminated. In the Wise Woman Tradition problems are allies, powerful presences who come to help us to wholeness…they force us as few others will, to be strong and wise."

Susan Weed

scenes from December thus far

2009-12-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

holiday goodies

2009-12-03T17:16:00.000-08:00

have you logged on to check out the fabulous goodies from the great gals who are offering you 15% off?

while you're in a holiday shopping mode, make plans to stop by DL Rhein this Saturday from 11am-6pm. i've heard there will be snacks & snips of delightful varieties. yum!

D. L. Rhein Studio
3303 Motor Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90064
fax: 310.280.0834
ph: 310.280.0474
toll free: 877.357.4346
email: info@dlrhein.com
Mon-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 11-6 -closed on Sunday

Ophelia's Apothecary, Aromatherapy Bath & Body Shop

{mmmmm, delicious treats for your skin with the very best ingredients and delightful results!}

á bbi, pampering body products made naturally

{amazing body scrubs and oils that leave your skin radiant. the scrubs are whipped so they don't separate and everything smells absolutely divine!}

TranquiliT, Eco-Luxe Lifestyle Wear

{superbly styled clothing made with bamboo fabric ... perfect for yoga, a night on the town or an elegant holiday dinner!}

Simply enter the code Studio41 when ordering. This super-savings discount on delectable treats is good thru December 16, 2009.

taking stock

2009-12-02T17:01:00.000-08:00

i've been a little whimpy the past few days. seems to be an unfortunate combination of weather, aching back, sinus issues and just plain ol' missing my family. all this down in the dumpiness has made me a tired and a bit blah.

casting about for something to break my poutty cycle, i logged on to the ever-distracting internets. nothing seemed too interesting. then i remembered that i had some credits to use on Audible. a bit of light on the horizon!

i added a few things to my wishlist but was not ready to buy ... and then i remembered a book that had been on my list: Half the Sky.

now, between clients, i'm listening to this cataloguing of brutal realities of women around the world. stunning, heart breaking, eye opening.

and then i think, "what was it i was whining about?!?"

special sale alert!

2009-11-30T12:14:00.000-08:00

gang!

was whizzing around through blog land and saw that TranquiliT is now 40% off through today. after perusing the TranquiliT store, use code NOIRFRIDAY at check out to save.

might i recommend the savasana throw? and, the versatile poncho skirt?

happy shopping for you and those on your "nice" list!

Thankful for you!

2009-11-24T19:07:00.000-08:00

I so very much appreciate YOU! And to show a little gratitude this holiday season, I've worked with three fabulous women to give you 15% off their gorgeously hand-crafted products.

Ophelia's Apothecary, Aromatherapy Bath & Body Shop

{mmmmm, delicious treats for your skin with the very best ingredients and delightful results!}

á bbi, pampering body products made naturally

{amazing body scrubs and oils that leave your skin radiant. the scrubs are whipped so they don't separate and everything smells absolutely divine!}

TranquiliT, Eco-Luxe Lifestyle Wear

{superbly styled clothing made with bamboo fabric ... perfect for yoga, a night on the town or an elegant holiday dinner!}

Simply enter the code Studio41 when ordering. This super-savings discount on delectable treats is good thru December 16, 2009.

damn, it's a poetry jam!

2009-11-19T22:58:00.000-08:00

Kelli's addition to the Poetry-fest:

"Sit down and breathe deep,
Warm soothing wax brings short pain
Leaves smooth supple skin"

y'all send Kelli some good thoughts; she's tackling the Iron Man this weekend!
goooooooooooo, Kelli!!

haiku to waxing

2009-11-17T17:18:00.001-08:00

Waxing paradox
Intense pain penance at first
Then pleasure for weeks

by the beautiful Megan

(damn, my clients are clever!)

you can't pick your family

2009-11-15T18:18:00.000-08:00

how awesome is this pic? how cool are my parents? and, yep, my finger is UP my nose. it's July 3, 1972 (i know this because it's written in my mom's script on the back of the polaroid). my parents are 25 ... 25!! and they've taken their sweet baby on holiday to Red River, New Mexico. my mom is pregnant with my lil' bro ... whose birthday is today!!

yay! Happy Birthday, Trent!! i love ya & miss ya!