tag:www.funtimesmagazine.com,2005:/categories/health-wellness?page=13Health+Wellness | FunTimes Magazine Page 13Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora2022-02-03T19:13:32-05:00urn:uuid:0ce0f107-c63d-46ab-bc12-0ee250430a5f2022-02-03T19:13:20-05:002022-02-03T19:13:32-05:006 Black-Owned Smoothie & Juice Bars for Your Next Health Drink2022-02-03 16:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>As the temperature remain low this winter season, it’s important that we keep our immune systems healthy. In addition to the common cold and flu season, COVID-19 cases are still rising in many parts of the world, which means we should be incorporating more healthy, vitamin-rich foods into our diets. Juices and smoothies are a great way to get the necessary nutrients and vitamins to keep your immune system healthy. Here is a list of great Black-owned juice and smoothie bars around the United States.</p><h4><br><p><a href="https://squeeze305.com/">The Squeeze Juice Bar</a></p></h4><p></p><div>The Squeeze Juice Bar is a quick-service restaurant, serving up fresh, healthy, and nutritious alternatives with a focus on fresh made-to-order juices, smoothies, salads, and other healthy snacks. With an extensive list of fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, shakes, and wellness shots, The Squeeze Bar has you covered for any detox, cleanse, or healthy eating regiment you’re seeking to start. They also have unique menu items for solid foods, including keto bowls, Beyond Burger paninis, and falafel tacos. Their main priority is to serve their entire community by building relationships all while offering healthy products that fuel and nourish the body.<br><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897809/fill/700x0/main_20squeeze.png?timestamp=1643932782"></div><p> </p></div><div><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.turningnatural.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177108430&usg=AOvVaw19XKyE16Sb8uqUFyaMuJZU">Turning Natural</a></h4><p>Turning Natural is more than a juice bar, it's a health movement. The mission of Turning Natural is to bring better choices to communities that are underserved; making healthy foods affordable, cool, and ultimately taste like magic. Jerri Evans, the owner of Turning Natural, first opened her juice bar after her mother passed away from breast cancer. Juicing was a major component in helping her mother remain cancer-free. With over 20 years in juicing and holistic living, Evans knew that Turning Natural would provide a valuable service to communities that would otherwise lack "better choice" options.</p><div class="image-main"><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897812/fill/700x0/turning_20natural.png?timestamp=1643932849"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.purejuicerybar.com/index.jsp&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177109430&usg=AOvVaw0Yrwn3yfl9XIldIpUAS8g0">Pure Juicery Bar</a></h4><p>Pure Juicery Bar is a fully-vegan juice bar and eatery. “After experiencing undeniable health benefits consuming a mostly plant-based diet and incorporating nutrient-rich cold-pressed juices into our lives, I wanted to take this to next level,” says the owner on her website. “That's when Pure Juicery Bar happened and I felt that this will complete the cycle of growing my own food to bringing it in a way that will help improve the lives of people in my community and there has been no looking back since then.” Puer Juicery Bar sources the best of the best produce and ingredients from local farms as much as possible.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897814/fill/700x0/pure_20juicery.png?timestamp=1643932944"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.rubyjeansjuicery.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177110323&usg=AOvVaw319I4qBRWjt0MGuO8ri-K2">Ruby Jean's Juicery</a></h4><p>Ruby Jean’s Juicery serves up handcrafted juices, smoothies, protein shakes, and other eats at their three Kansas City locations. Ruby Jean is the late grandmother of founder and CEO, Chris Goode. Following his first juice cleanse, which lasted 10 days, he felt better than he ever had and immediately thought of his late grandmother and wished she had the knowledge and understanding of how important healthy eating and drinking truly was.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897815/fill/700x0/ruby_20jean.png?timestamp=1643933035"></div><p> </p></div><span><h4><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreenGrottoJuiceBar/?ref=page_internal">Green Grotto Juice Bar</a></h4><p>Juiceologist Kieran Roberts opened a tech-forward juice bar in downtown Los Angeles. Green Grotto Juice Bar is a healthy juice bar in the heart of DTLA serving organic juices, cold-pressed juices, specialty shots, teas and coffees, and healthy foods. All Green Grotto Juice Bar products are made from organic produce which is sourced locally.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897816/fill/700x0/green_20grotto.png?timestamp=1643933184"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://sunsetrawjuicebar.com/">Sunset Raw Juice Bar</a></h4></span><span><p>Sunset Raw Juice Bar offers fresh cold-pressed juice and smoothies at their Baltimore County location. This juice bar is dedicated to providing high-quality products that infuse fruit, natural grain, and vegetables, in a variety of raw drinks. The raw drinks are loaded with nutrients, and are great for cleansing and detoxifying the body in order to support a healthy lifestyle. Sunset Raw Juice Bar not only specializes in raw juices, but their products also include, acai bowls, protein smoothies, green smoothies, and wellness shots.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897817/fill/700x0/sunset.png?timestamp=1643933373"></div><p> </p><p><b>Source</b></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://travelnoire.com/juice-bars-in-the-us-to-keep-healthy&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177112257&usg=AOvVaw2eItp6Wn-nrggxz7fSsGea">Travel Noire</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://blackrestaurantweeks.com/23-black-owned-smoothie-juice-bars/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177112704&usg=AOvVaw3ejUv4U-9BaAMZQfJoIRiw">Black Restaurant Week</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://webuyblack.com/blog/8-black-owned-juice-smoothie-bars/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177112996&usg=AOvVaw0T5BuyhUe2NC7IzRXqcyjj">We Buy Black</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://eboneats.com/11-black-owned-juice-bars/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643936177113278&usg=AOvVaw1JI_fpBh6JsaheRHf4xU1b">Eboneats</a></p><p><br></p><div><br><br><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1643933480"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/848433/fit/80x80/kombucha.png?timestamp=1643933521" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers" target="_blank">Is Kombucha Good for You? Health Benefits and Dangers </a></h4>
<p>Kombucha has gained popularity over recent years because of influencers such as Jackie Aina who love this tea. But is the ‘miracle tea’ all it's cracked up to be? Here are some health ben... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/04/373416/6-black-owned-vegan-restaurants-that-are-too-delicious-to-miss" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/864699/fit/80x80/vegan_20plate.png?timestamp=1643933532" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/04/373416/6-black-owned-vegan-restaurants-that-are-too-delicious-to-miss" target="_blank">6 Black-Owned Vegan Restaurants That Are Too Delicious to Miss</a></h4>
<p>In Black communities around the world, plant-based eating has been a part of traditions and cultures for centuries. Many Black entrepreneurs are starting their own vegan restaurants and w... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/04/373416/6-black-owned-vegan-restaurants-that-are-too-delicious-to-miss">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/14/378225/7-black-owned-bakeries-to-satisfy-your-sweet-tooth" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/875153/fit/80x80/baking_20businesses.png?timestamp=1643933539" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/14/378225/7-black-owned-bakeries-to-satisfy-your-sweet-tooth" target="_blank">7 Black-Owned Bakeries to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth</a></h4>
<p>It’s baking season! We could all use a little sweetness right now, and local bakeshops have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic. Here are some artisanal Black-owned bakeries and ki... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/14/378225/7-black-owned-bakeries-to-satisfy-your-sweet-tooth">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><br><br><br><br><br></div></span><p> </p></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:eb1e111b-287e-41a2-b219-b266aee8c4ed2022-02-01T16:07:38-05:002022-02-01T16:08:49-05:00Love & Time: Learnings from love-embodied work2022-02-01 16:30:00 -0500Jos Duncan Asé<div><p>We know that “time is money” but we don’t often think about time as love. People who are leaving their jobs as part of <a href="https://fortune.com/2022/01/04/great-resignation-record-quit-rate-4-5-million/">The Great Resignation</a> might also be part of “The Great Time of Soul Searching” or “The Great Time Spent Caring for Loved Ones.” As we continue to navigate our way through the pandemic, employers have been seeking tools and approaches to support workplace practices and cultural shifts that help employees better assess their needs while caring for themselves and their loved ones. A reimagined workforce will likely include improved workplace practices and policies that acknowledge and support human needs and complex identities.</p><p>Love Now Media has been collecting career stories inspired by love through our series, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK0uKWExbXwKefQM8cc9t9DVIUyKoul3z">Be. Do. Love</a>. Those stories capture refreshing perspectives on work along with the obstacles, questions, clarifying moments, and decisions that have led the storytellers to where they are today. Learn more about the career stories that are redefining the way we work, live, and love.</p><p>As the Omicron variant surged this month, overlapping with downtime over the holiday and the new year, schools and work activities almost came to a halt. Our team struggled to manage personal obstacles, managing childcare, accidents, illness, and meeting deadlines. The most loving gesture I could offer was to suggest team members take the time they needed to recover, to recalibrate, and to breathe. This led to our team slowing down our calendar of activities. The deadlines that were a week out are now a month out; the project that was initially envisioned as a month-long project, is now three months; the quarter-long project, will now roll out over 10 months. </p><p>As a founder and the leader of the organization, I had a practice of working 60-80 hours per week, including weekends. The pandemic has led me to set boundaries to support my own self-love and self-care. I now set work hours. I start on time and I end on time. I monitor the bad habit of constantly checking email and Slack to see if I missed a pressing inquiry. During my time off, I’m sure to relax, to do things that bring me joy, and to fortify myself for the work I do. </p><p>I’ve also noticed that people are not only navigating the obstacles the pandemic has presented, but they’re likely navigating grief: the loss of people, loss of routines, social lives, connections they had before the pandemic. Sometimes they just need a little more time to complete tasks so that they feel whole enough to perform well. Time is simple and delicate but moments that matter can be massive and invaluable for people who just need a little more of it. As we look ahead to create the new normal for the workforce and our lives, the ways we handle time will be a key component in demonstrating love, support, and empathy for our colleagues. </p><div><br><br><br><br><em>This story is originally published by </em><a href="https://lovenowmedia.com/small-doses-big-difference-how-a-young-philadelphia-artist-creatively-addresses-mental-and-health-wellness/" target="_blank">Love Now Media</a><em>, with permission to share on FunTimes Magazine.<br></em><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/897097/fill/300x0/love_20now_20media_20logo.png?timestamp=1643749630"></div><p> </p></div></div><div></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:46171191-cdbc-461e-96fa-32923aca4aa72022-01-30T09:41:58-05:002022-01-30T09:44:02-05:00Black-Owned Fitness Apparel Brands To Shop Before Your Next Sweat Session2022-01-30 12:00:00 -0500 Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Trying to fit exercise into our daily lives can feel like a chore, which is why having something cute to wear while working out is oh-so- important. From those who live to do yoga each morning to those who just like to lounge around the house in athleisure, these standout nine Black-owned fitness apparel brands are expertly combining fashion with fitness and making some of the coolest activewear on the market.</p><br><h4><a href="https://www.yemacalif.com/">Yema</a></h4><p>Yema Khalif, who grew up in Nairobi, Kenya, founded the Yema apparel line after coming to the United States to study communications through the Road to Freedom scholarships program. Co-founder Hawi Awash was born in Ethiopia and was a refugee in Kenya before moving to Minnesota. 20% of your purchase money goes to educate orphaned children in Ethiopia and Kibera slums, Kenya.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896199/fill/700x0/yema.png?timestamp=1643552944"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://meltfit.com/">Melt Fit</a></h4><p><span>Based in Detroit, Melt Fit’s size-inclusive activewear is dedicated to fun prints and great fits in sizes up to 3XL. Celebrities like Gabrielle Union are a fan and the Melt Fit Essential Leggings made it to the annual list of <a href="https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/a38004111/oprah-favorite-things-2021/">Oprah's Favorite Things for 2021</a>. The workout tights feature comfortable stretch, a supportive high waist, and pockets that are actually deep enough to hold your phone.</span><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896200/fill/700x0/melt_20fit.jpeg?timestamp=1643553050"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.aktivefitness.co/">Aktive Fitness</a></h4><p></p><p>Aktive Fitness is dedicated to helping women of color achieve a healthier lifestyle by creating accessible plans for keeping in shape. They also sell workout equipment. Aktive Fitness has fitness plans that range in difficulty, keeping in mind the various starting points of every individual, and meal plans.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896201/fill/700x0/aktive.png?timestamp=1643553108"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.glamourina.com/">Glamourina</a><br></h4></span><span><p>The Glamourina activewear brand was created to represent culturally conscious women of all skin tones, body shapes, and physical attributes. Their African-inspired leggings were designed to motivate and empower women of color to live a healthy lifestyle. They feature a high-waisted design and super-fine mesh to endure intense workouts. With a size range of S-3XL, Glamourina positions itself as a woman-first brand.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896202/fill/700x0/glamourina.jpeg?timestamp=1643553161"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://lukafit.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643556483781235&usg=AOvVaw3ifVzQN2C-jyAdwB5n4pea">Lukafit</a></h4><p>Lukafit’s founder Mbali Ndlovu, aSouth African fitness enthusiast, started the brand to give women of color in all sizes — her clothes go up to 3X in leggings and 2X in sports bras — athleticwear that’s designed for them. Ndlovu wanted to create an empowering brand for women. The name Lukafit is partially derived from the Zulu word “juluka,” which means to sweat. The brand also includes squat-proof leggings that stay on your bottom through any workout and hug your curves. “Sweating releases “feel good” endorphins, detoxifies your body, and gives you a healthy glow, so we encourage folks to sweat a lot,” says Ndlovu on the website.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896203/fill/700x0/lukafit.jpeg?timestamp=1643553213"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.culturefitclothing.com/">CultureFit Clothing</a></h4><p></p><p>CultureFit is on a mission to create high-quality, high-performance, globalized activewear that looks and feels amazing. Fans of brightly colored activewear will love CultureFit's West African–print designs. Plus, they're all made from a water-wicking material that won't pill or tear. All fabrics are ethically sourced and made with moisture wicking technology. Apparel selections include bras, sweetheart neck tank tops, leggings, and pink Kente and blue Ankara and yoga mats.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896204/fill/700x0/culture_20fit.jpeg?timestamp=1643553279"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://roamloud.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643556483782222&usg=AOvVaw07OYsRT7FuNnzI4uX9TR1V">Roam Loud</a></h4><p><span>When she founded activewear line Roam Loud, Toyin Omisore sought to honor her Liberian grandmother’s legacy by capturing her bold spirit. The brand includes pieces for all types of activities — from high-waisted leggings for high-intensity workouts to relaxed-fit joggers (in a definitely bold lime-green print) for not-so-sweaty exercise or just hanging out. “As a Wanderer, we encourage you to live a life of freedom. No more boxes of expectations. Color outside the lines. Live on your own terms,” says Omisore.<br><br></span></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896205/fill/700x0/roam_20loud.png?timestamp=1643553473"></div><h4> <a href="https://www.mysolelyfit.com/">Solely Fit</a></h4></span><span><p>A Haitian-Nigerian-American and South Florida native, Stefania Okolie has always been a storyteller at heart. After years as a reporter, Okolie took her storytelling skills and interest in design to create Solely Fit, an activewear brand designed to give women functional athleticwear that’s stylish, too. Activewear has always made Okolie feel confident and powerful, and each piece was intentionally designed with those elements in mind. Solely Fit is a powerful collection that brings Okolie’s vision of unifying bold and valiant women to life. Her current collection features bodysuits, leggings, bike shorts, and sports bras that are all made in the United States.</p><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/896206/fill/700x0/solely_20fit.jpeg?timestamp=1643553522"></div><p> </p><p><b>Source</b></p><p><a href="https://amethystmusicnewsmagazine.com/10-black-owned-fitness-apparel-brands/">AMN Magazine</a></p><p><a href="https://stylecaster.com/feature/black-owned-fitness-brands-1126212/#slide-3">Style Caster</a></p><p><a href="https://nymag.com/strategist/article/black-owned-active-wear-brands.html">The Strategist</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://travelnoire.com/10-black-owned-fitness-apparel-brands">Travel Noire</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1643553655"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/23/387857/8-health-wellness-trends-to-watch-in-2022" target="_blank"><img alt="8 Health Wellness Trends To Watch In 2022" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893794/fit/80x80/health_20and_20wellness.png?timestamp=1643553692" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/23/387857/8-health-wellness-trends-to-watch-in-2022" target="_blank">8 Health & Wellness Trends To Watch In 2022</a></h4>
<p>2021 was a year of growth and reckoning. We emerged from the tribulations of 2020 with a bit more understanding, focus, and an eagerness to move forward. As we look ahead to the wellness ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/23/387857/8-health-wellness-trends-to-watch-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/31/379698/black-owned-loungewear-brands-to-cozy-up-in-these-holidays" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/878360/fit/80x80/loungewear_20brands.png?timestamp=1643553701" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/31/379698/black-owned-loungewear-brands-to-cozy-up-in-these-holidays" target="_blank">Black-Owned Loungewear Brands to Cozy Up In These Holidays</a></h4>
<p>Loungewear is the fastest growing fashion trend thanks to the pandemic. While being home for the holidays, cozy up in one of these Black-owned loungewear brands. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/31/379698/black-owned-loungewear-brands-to-cozy-up-in-these-holidays">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/848433/fit/80x80/kombucha.png?timestamp=1643553712" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers" target="_blank">Is Kombucha Good for You? Health Benefits and Dangers </a></h4>
<p>Kombucha has gained popularity over recent years because of influencers such as Jackie Aina who love this tea. But is the ‘miracle tea’ all it's cracked up to be? Here are some health ben... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/08/27/366505/is-kombucha-good-for-you-health-benefits-and-dangers">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:37569abf-e0ff-4b68-a97e-997b2f2778302022-01-24T12:49:29-05:002022-02-01T17:04:55-05:005 of the Best African Spices2022-01-25 10:00:00 -0500Anand Subramanian<span><p>Most African nations rely on healthy and productive soils for food security, important environmental services, social cohesion, and economic development. Africa boasts some of the most fertile regions on the earth, and it is from this richness that culture-rich foods, herbs, and natural spices are produced, which are loved across the world. Throughout history, the use of herbs and spices has been important. Long before they were utilized in cooking, many were recognized for their healing properties. Many of them have now been demonstrated to have major health benefits by current research. Spices, spice seeds, and herbs are used in cuisine to provide taste, fragrance, and depth of flavor. They may have little nutritional benefit in the little quantities needed to prepare gourmet meals, but they stimulate hunger, give zest to food, and improve tastes. Let’s go through 5 of the best spices from Africa.<br></p><br><h4>Irú </h4><br><p>Irú is a fermented seasoning that has long been utilized by Nigerian tribes, particularly the Yoruba and Edo people. It is made by fermenting and processing locust beans (Parkia biglobosa), and it is available in both fresh and dried forms, whole or mashed. The tannins that form during the fermentation process are responsible for the seasoning's trademark earthly odors, which are typically characterized as evocative of terrible body odor and stinky feet. Despite its earthy aroma, the spice is still widely used to flavor a wide range of traditional stews and soups, including okro soup, efo riro stew, ewedu soup, egusi soup, gbegiri soup, and ogbono soup. Irú provides therapeutic advantages such as wound healing capabilities, treatment for hypertension, immune system booster, treatment for respiratory infections, and treatment for gastrointestinal problems, according to <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/iru-these-are-amazing-health-benefits-of-african-locust-bean/406dxhc">Pulse.ng.</a></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/894453/fill/700x0/iru.png?timestamp=1643046186"></div><p> </p></span>Figure 1 - Photograph of Iru Spice. Source - Google<br><br><p></p><h4>Alligator pepper<br><br></h4><p></p><p>Alligator pepper, also known as “Grains of Paradise”, is a West African spice with a strong, aromatic, and spicy flavor. It is similar to a fruity cardamon pod and is a member of the ginger family. Alligator pepper is also used culturally across Africa. For example, the Yorubas of Nigeria often utilize it at infant naming rituals and other traditional events. Alligator pepper is widely used to flavor soups, vegetables, and stews in West Africa, but it is flexible enough to spice lamb, chicken, and cattle meals as well. Grilled steaks with a dash of alligator pepper are a perfect combination. According to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.today.com/food/how-use-alligator-pepper-aka-grains-paradise-t213570&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643049710331580&usg=AOvVaw31TalJUqc4r9TZPwsv5JBJ">Today.com</a>, the whole plant is utilized for medicinal applications in addition to peppercorns. The rhizomes (also known as rootstalks) have historically been used as antibacterial and antifungal medicines; the long leaves are used to cure measles and gastrointestinal ailments, and the seeds have anti-inflammatory effects. Alligator pepper contains a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Among the amino acids contained in alligator pepper that are required to create proteins is l-Threonine; humans do not naturally generate this amino acid, so we must get it via our diet. Alligator pepper includes several antioxidants in the form of flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids, which provide advantages such as scavenging free radicals in the body that cause inflammation.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/894454/fill/700x0/alligator_20pepper.png?timestamp=1643046268"></div><p> Figure 2 - Photograph of Alligator Pepper. Source - Google.</p><p></p><p><br></p><h4>Alnif cumin</h4><p></p><p><br></p><p>Alnif cumin is traditionally harvested and processed by local women in the same Moroccan hamlet located in the foothills of the eastern Anti-Atlas mountain range from the end of April to the beginning of May. The cumin plant is often picked before it fully matures. This prevents any seeds from being lost. The procedure also aids in the preservation of the green hue. After harvesting, the cumin is dried in the shade before being battered to liberate the seeds. Following that, the farmers sift away the dust and other debris that have accumulated with the seeds.</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://pan-african.net/a-taste-of-african-spices/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643049710333017&usg=AOvVaw2tiStDALQ4Dwy7tMeCsHnn">According to Pan African</a>, this cumin species, distinguished by its high quality and rich perfume, may be used whole or ground, and it is widely used to improve the taste of classic Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tajine, and soups. These dried leaves have a two-year shelf life. To get Alnif Cumin powder, the seeds are crushed using a conventional mill.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/894455/fill/700x0/alnif_20cumin.png?timestamp=1643046321">Figure 3 - The Photograph of Alnif Cumin. Source - Google<br><br></div><p></p><h4>Mau Forest Dried Nettles</h4><br><p></p><p>Native populations of the Mau forest in the Rift Valley have been gathering leaves and plants from the surrounding region for years. This includes nettles, which have long been a staple of Kenyan cuisine, even during times of drought. However, their usage has been dramatically curtailed since the early 1980s. This is owing to increased deforestation and the elimination of information about their culinary applications. As a consequence, a group of women has begun to produce nettles in the Molo highlands at altitudes ranging from 2000 to 3000 meters, with the greatest results achieved on highly rich terrain in certain regions where cattle historically grazed. They are hand collected from March to June and September to October, according to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.tasteatlas.com/mau-forest-dried-nettles&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1643049710334453&usg=AOvVaw0594-RtcOVdgY-J3oyKTuv">Taste Atlas</a>. After being picked, the nettles are bathed in water to lessen the stinging impact before being sold fresh or dried and processed into a powder. The leaves are used in a variety of traditional dishes, including mukimo, which is made with mashed potatoes, maize, beans, and nettles. They are used in the local porridge, along with millet flour. They are also used as fresh vegetables, medicinal herbs, and herbal tea. They are also advised as a nutritional supplement for nursing women (the leaves contain 6 percent protein, 3.5 percent minerals, and are a rich source of iron and Vitamin A). To boost soil fertility, the dry powder may also be diluted with water and sprayed on it. While young plant leaves are mostly sold fresh at local markets, dried nettles in powder form have a larger market and are sold all year.</p><div><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/894456/fill/700x0/mau_20forest_20nettle.png?timestamp=1643046390">Figure 4 - The Photograph of Mau Forest Dried Nettles. Source - Google</div><p><br></p><p></p><h4>Peri-peri<br><br></h4><p></p><p>Peri-peri is possibly the most well-known African spice, used in rubs for chicken, fish, steaks, and other meats and even vegetables all over the world. This African spice is also frequently utilized in several restaurant chains in the Americas and the United Kingdom, and it is readily accessible as sauces, rubs, and dry spice for cooking. Crushed chillis, citrus peel, tarragon, basil, pimento, bay leaves, paprika, salt, onion, garlic, pepper, and lemon juice are common ingredients in peri-peri. This African spice is quickly becoming a worldwide favorite, and it's most renowned for being used on chicken. Vitamins A, B, and C are abundant in Peri-peri chili seeds. They also include capsaicin, which improves mood by dilating pupils, increasing metabolic rate, and releasing endorphins when ingested. According to <a target="_blank">African Dream Foods</a>, it has been produced in the wild for generations in Africa and is currently commercially farmed in Zambia, Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda. Malawi, Zambia, South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Portugal are the primary growing areas. It is grown for commercial food processing as well as the pharmaceutical business. Peri-peri is mainly used to treat schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/894458/fill/700x0/peri_20peri.png?timestamp=1643046513">Figure 5 - Photograph of Peri Peri Spice. Source - Google<br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/814912/fill/300x0/anand.jpg?timestamp=1643052923"></div><p> Anand Subramanian is a freelance photographer and content writer based out of Tamil Nadu, India. Having a background in Engineering always made him curious about life on the other side of the spectrum. He leapt forward towards the Photography life and never looked back. Specializing in Documentary and Portrait photography gave him an up-close and personal view into the complexities of human beings and those experiences helped him branch out from visual to words. Today he is mentoring passionate photographers and writing about the different dimensions of the art world.</p><p><br>Read more from Anand Subramanian:</p><p><br></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/22/387864/roots-of-yoga-in-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank"><img alt="Figure 1 - Visual representation of Yoga Source - Google" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893796/fit/80x80/yoga_20representation.png?timestamp=1643052940" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/22/387864/roots-of-yoga-in-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank">Roots of Yoga in the African Diaspora</a></h4>
<p>Yoga scholars have discovered evidence that yoga originated not just in India but also in portions of Africa, notably Egypt. Yoga was developed by Indians and Africans as a means of spiri... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/22/387864/roots-of-yoga-in-the-african-diaspora">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/10/25/372284/the-5-best-desserts-from-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/862030/fit/80x80/african_20sweets.jpg?timestamp=1643052953" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/10/25/372284/the-5-best-desserts-from-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank">The 5 Best Desserts from the African Diaspora</a></h4>
<p>There are a variety of African desserts, some influenced by the foreign civilizations who settled on the continent, and others based on ingredients that are naturally accessible in the area. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/10/25/372284/the-5-best-desserts-from-the-african-diaspora">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/09/30/369927/best-coffee-brands-throughout-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/856242/fit/80x80/african_20coffee.png?timestamp=1643052987" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/09/30/369927/best-coffee-brands-throughout-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank">Best Coffee Brands Throughout The African Diaspora</a></h4>
<p>These coffee brands have become the biggest sellers, generating huge profits by offering the richest taste and finest flavor to the people of Africa and beyond. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/09/30/369927/best-coffee-brands-throughout-the-african-diaspora">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p></div></div><div><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e983c118-df7c-4bff-9bb3-6877b31df2b32022-01-21T10:40:10-05:002022-01-23T00:40:24-05:008 Health & Wellness Trends To Watch In 20222022-01-23 10:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<p>2021 was a year of growth and reckoning. We emerged from the tribulations of 2020 with a bit more understanding, focus, and an eagerness to move forward. As we look ahead to the wellness trends primed to influence and empower individuals in 2022, their mind-and-body benefits feel especially vital.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>Affordable Smart Fitness</h4><p>Fitt Insider also coolly observed that in 2022, digital fitness companies will have to compete not only against other digital fitness companies but against real-life gyms too. This means lower prices on home gym equipment as there will be more innovation this year in the home gym industry, delivering smarter tech at a price point that doesn’t make you and your wallet wince. Developments in AI and machine learning are bringing real-time form tracking to at-home equipment so you can enjoy a personalized level of attention—without a trainer needing to be present.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>Soothing Our Souls With Nervine Herbs</h4><p>Nervines are types of herbs intended to nourish and support the central nervous system. They’re reportedly designed to restore balance and restfulness in the body. Nervine herbs include herbs like lemon balm, chamomile, skullcap, and passionflower. People often brew nervine tonics in a tea form and drink them to enjoy their effects. However, some people may make nervine tinctures, which are extracts that are more concentrated and may be consumed by the drop or drops.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>Making Peace with Periods</h4><p>Surfing the red wave is about to get a lot easier and less stressful. There are lots of natural alternatives for period pain relief. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.powerdot.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570426101&usg=AOvVaw1UmNqLVsdbs45lN9gXRyAu">PowerDot</a>, a high-end transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device from Therabody, now has a Period Pain Relief program which is a medication-free, wear-all-day way to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps. Disposable pads and tampons are on their way out with more sustainable replacements like period panties. The Period Company‘s line of affordable, super-absorbent underwear. Most of their styles cost about $12, with the most expensive clocking in at $24.<br><br></p><p><br></p><p></p><p></p><h4>Supporting the Immune System With Lymphatic Drainage Massage</h4><span><p>Lymphatic drainage massage has risen in popularity over the years as people are becoming more familiar with the lymphatic system and its key role in fighting infection in the body. Horstman notes that its momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Getting or giving yourself a lymph drainage massage is an effective way to support the immune system, circulate blood throughout the body, and maintain proper fluid balance.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>A Focus on Sperm Health<br><br></h4><p>As awareness about fertility continues to trend in the right direction, there's one crucial piece of the puzzle that will get more much-needed attention in 2022: male fertility. Among heterosexual couples facing fertility issues, the male partner is a contributing factor about 50% of the time. We’re long overdue for a more inclusive fertility conversation. In-clinic sperm collection is often an uncomfortable experience for patients. Last year, bioscience company Reproductive Solutions released <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.reproductive.solutions/about-us&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570426786&usg=AOvVaw0T8rVBjJv8zHY_sw-wUqGj">ProteX</a>, the first and only product designed specifically for semen collection at home, and retailer HoMedics saw a 580% rise in sales for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.homedics.com/swimcount-sperm-quality-test/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570427004&usg=AOvVaw1uGpn9hzdSgIygRICv5-Qd">Swimcount</a>, a new home test that enables men to measure the progressive motility of their sperm.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>Sound Healing is Taking the Well-being World by Storm<br><br></h4><p>While sound has fascinated humans for millennia, auditory experiences will strike new chords in the world of well-being next year. From personalized soundscapes powered by artificial intelligence to a renewed interest in ancient techniques like sound baths, psychoacoustics is the term to know in 2022. In late2021, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://endel.io/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570427362&usg=AOvVaw2-4U2idlBS-idv2EcOdPji">Endel</a> showed the world what A.I.-powered sound can do when they teamed up with artist Grimes to create the A.I. Lullaby, an adaptive sleep soundscape. A soundscape is simply the combination of multiple sounds to create a specific auditory environment. Powered by artificial intelligence, the A.I. Lullaby factors in location, weather, and natural light exposure to create a personalized soundscape that helps children and adults fall asleep.</p><p></p><h4><br>Gender-Inclusive Products Are Pushing Beauty Standards<br><br></h4><p>According to the marketing firm Wunderman Thompson, more than 50 percent of Gen Zers shop beyond their gender in beauty categories, which is prompting some in the industry to think outside of the gender binary. Founder of the skin-care brand <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://hellobubble.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570427746&usg=AOvVaw3QaoY6VJaU5oHMD12T9GBa">Bubble</a> Shai Eisenman said pp until this point, skincare and beauty [marketers] have been largely talking to feminine-presenting women, which leaves a huge gap for anyone who doesn’t fit into that bucket. Fenty was early on the scene in regards to gender inclusivity. When the brand launched Fenty Skin in 2020, Rihanna tweeted: “Whoever told you skincare has a gender, LIED to you!” and that ethos has carried through the brand’s marketing materials to this day.<br><br></p><p></p><h4>Employers Will Finally Regard Mental Health As Serious Business<br><br></h4><p>For many, burnout and stress have been on the rise since the onset of the pandemic, fueled in large part by the need to juggle work demands with competing life responsibilities. According to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://b2b.talkspace.com/hubfs/employee-stress-check-2021.pdf&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570428318&usg=AOvVaw2Hjzigp5ttgotnvLY1LjKJ">Talkspace for Business’s September 2021 survey</a>, employers have no choice but to listen to employees signaling that mental health support is an important benefit to them, and this year workplaces will invest in the growing number of resources available that offer mental-health-focused benefits, including subsidized mental wellness and therapy services, mental health training at work, self-guided tools and apps. The survey also found that 52% of respondents who were considering leaving their jobs would stay if their company offered more mental health services.<br><br></p><p></p><p><b>Source</b></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health/nervine-tonics%23how-to-use&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570428893&usg=AOvVaw3RBdgUeYHHXbRsYhpSe7JK">Healthline</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://greatist.com/fitness/2022-fitness-and-wellness-trends&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570429224&usg=AOvVaw3hs1b6jhaDKziXouuVikg5">Greatist</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/health-and-wellness-trends&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570429551&usg=AOvVaw3TKfwAl8mWwBnxuOaGBHyf">Mind Body Green</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wellandgood.com/fitness-wellness-trends/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570429833&usg=AOvVaw2G2xThvRtuXsInTPhJlJNx">Well and Good</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://camillestyles.com/wellness/health-and-wellness-trends-2022/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642782570430134&usg=AOvVaw0gH5CQuR1l9fnOhE-aO2xK">Camille Styles</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1642779202"></div><span><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/877656/fit/80x80/detox.png?timestamp=1642779372" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year" target="_blank">Healthy Ways to Detox Your Body For A Fresh Start to the New Year</a></h4>
<p>Think you’ve overdone it and not treated your body well? These easy ways to recuperate will help you feel healthier than ever. Since all of these tips are consistent with a healthy lifest... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/07/386866/black-owned-meal-delivery-services-to-make-meal-prepping-easier-and-more-flavorful" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/891177/fit/80x80/pasted_20image_200.png?timestamp=1642779387" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/07/386866/black-owned-meal-delivery-services-to-make-meal-prepping-easier-and-more-flavorful" target="_blank">Black-Owned Meal-Delivery Services to Make Meal-Prepping Easier and More Flavorful</a></h4>
<p>Whether you're craving soul food or trying to stick to a plant-based diet, these Black-owned meal-delivery services have you covered. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/07/386866/black-owned-meal-delivery-services-to-make-meal-prepping-easier-and-more-flavorful">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022" target="_blank"><img alt="Small Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health in 2022" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892401/fit/80x80/mental_20health_202022.png?timestamp=1642779430" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022" target="_blank">Small Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health in 2022</a></h4>
<p>Self-care won't solve every problem, but these quick and easy activities may at least bring some happiness to your day, and care for your mental health. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e8833b42-9f71-4d6c-b638-fb4c6aa12af72022-01-21T11:03:48-05:002022-01-21T11:04:09-05:00Roots of Yoga in the African Diaspora2022-01-22 10:00:00 -0500Anand Subramanian<span><p>Yoga scholars have discovered evidence that yoga originated not just in India but also in portions of Africa, notably Egypt. Yoga was developed by Indians and Africans as a means of spiritual progress, a method to combine the spiritual with the physical. The practice has developed through time into a variety of various forms, some more accessible than others. Numerous civilizations developed spiritual practices that used movement and breath, whether via dance, asana (postures), or physical activity. Kemetic yoga is one such example.</p><p><br></p><p>Kemetic Yoga originates in one of the world's oldest civilizations, ancient Egypt, formally named Kemet (meaning 'Black country,' the original name for Egypt, which was given to it by the Greeks), in northeastern Africa. According to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.suitandartist.com/stories/angie-franklin-and-the-afro-yoga-movement&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642783897630346&usg=AOvVaw2tfRSYiTd7mP2iRDFMpFdV">suitandartist.com,</a> Kemetic Yoga was formed via the study, translation, and interpretation of the often referred to hieroglyphic manuscripts of Kemet (ancient Egypt) and the depictions of Yogic poses on the walls of Kemetic temples. The ancient Kemetic people, who constructed the pyramids and contributed mathematics, architecture, astronomy, agriculture, chemistry, engineering, medicine, and religion to the world, communicated their scientific and philosophical concepts via symbols.</p><p></p><p>The picture of a man named Shu is carved on the back of a wooden chair discovered in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamen. Shu embodies the principle of inhalation. His long, curving beard suggests that the ancient Egyptians or Kemetic people regarded him as a Netcher or natural power. Shu symbolizes the notion of the breath we take, which gives our physical bodies living in the ancient Kemetic Scientific System of Cosmology. Additionally, it is the atmosphere that surrounds the Earth, as well as one of the four elements of creation, along with earth, air, fire, and water. When we examine his pose and the symbols etched on the chair, including the sun disc atop his head and two Cobra snakes, the link to Yoga becomes clear. On top of his head, the sun disc represents the crown chakra or energy point associated with greater wisdom and enlightenment. The cobras correlate to two of the three major Nadis, which are channels through which energy or life force flows, feeds, and animates the human body, according to Yogic science.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893798/fill/700x0/egyptian_20god.png?timestamp=1642780553"></div><p>Figure 2 - Egyptian God of Shu. Source - Google</p></span><p></p><p><br>Kemetic yoga is a kind of yoga that focuses on the flow of energy through the body in order to connect with one's higher intellect and the divine. Kemetic yoga mixes meditation, deep breathing, and physical motions to emphasize breathing, self-development, mind-body-spirit healing, and self-discovery. It is practiced at a considerably slower pace than normal asana classes, with a greater emphasis on meditation and the chakras (energy centers). Each set of motions ensures that everyone enters and exits the stance in the proper order. Nothing is random or unplanned. This kind of movement is in harmony with the natural structure of the body. It goes through each joint and muscle group in a methodical manner to build alignment, rectify bodily abnormalities, and revitalize the organs.</p><p></p><p>While the postures of Kemetic Yoga are unique, this kind of movement may be adapted to any yoga system, whether it be the different varieties of Indian yoga or ancient Kemetic Yoga. This methodology is more meticulous and slower than typical Yoga practices. By slowing the motions, yoga places a greater focus on the development of patience and attention. The technique used to achieve these postures places a premium on body alignment and geometric development. The focus on breath control in our everyday lives activates the autonomic nervous system, which assists in reducing stress and increasing productivity and creativity. Numerous notable scholars of Kemetic culture want to increase public awareness of the practice of Kemetic yoga, particularly the African effect on current spiritual practices. According to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354324113_Kemetic_Yoga_Tourism_A_Study_of_Marketing_Strategies_in_Egypt&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642783897631543&usg=AOvVaw2SyRRo7mh-y8Q1cDiRA3tB">Research Gate</a>, Egypt's tourism minister claimed that Kemetic yoga quickly blossomed into the marvel of yoga tourism, which is today a critical and lucrative component of the wellness tourism business. This unique yoga practice attracts yoga enthusiasts from all over the globe. Kemetic yoga tourism is a new travel trend in Egypt, supporting an emerging tourist attraction and fostering the possibility of more study.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893800/fill/700x0/kemetic_20yoga.png?timestamp=1642780675">Figure 3 - Kemetic Yoga Pose. Source - Google<br><br></div><p></p><p>We must be open to the possibility that yoga is far wider than we perceive it to be or have been taught to believe—and that its beginnings are likely deeper and more complicated than what we now assume and understand about contemporary yoga culture. This raises the possibility that there are several cultural origins in various geographical regions that have developed their own yoga traditions of mindful-movement practices. This relationship between movement and spiritual connection may be seen in East Asian martial arts, as well as in indigenous tribes in North America with their drumming and dancing traditions. Exploring the many roots of the practice, in the end, only contributes to enhancing the culture of yoga.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/814912/fill/300x0/anand.jpg?timestamp=1642780881"></div><p> Anand Subramanian is a freelance photographer and content writer based out of Tamil Nadu, India. Having a background in Engineering always made him curious about life on the other side of the spectrum. He leapt forward towards the Photography life and never looked back. Specializing in Documentary and Portrait photography gave him an up-close and personal view into the complexities of human beings and those experiences helped him branch out from visual to words. Today he is mentoring passionate photographers and writing about the different dimensions of the art world.</p><p><br>Read more from Anand Subramanian:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/28/376216/kindness-is-contagious-the-role-of-kindness-in-making-a-better-community" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/871018/fit/80x80/pexels-atc-comm-photo-305530.jpg?timestamp=1642780921" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/28/376216/kindness-is-contagious-the-role-of-kindness-in-making-a-better-community" target="_blank">Kindness is Contagious: The Role of Kindness in Making a Better Community</a></h4>
<p>When we watch someone being nice or giving, we feel a pleasant warmth inside. This is referred to by researchers as "moral elevation," because it not only feels good but also drives us to... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/28/376216/kindness-is-contagious-the-role-of-kindness-in-making-a-better-community">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/07/31/363907/branching-out-in-solitude" target="_blank"><img alt="Figure 1 - Understanding ourselves in solitude Source - Istockphoto" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/841471/fit/80x80/understand_20solitude.png?timestamp=1642780978" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/07/31/363907/branching-out-in-solitude" target="_blank">Branching Out in Solitude</a></h4>
<p>Solitude is a decision that gives independence and space from the pressures and disruptions of everyone else, and in this article, we will discuss the benefits of solitude and how it may ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/07/31/363907/branching-out-in-solitude">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/25/376047/the-evolution-of-mens-mentality-and-stereotypes-throughout-the-decades" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/870649/fit/80x80/pexels-zack-jarosz-2024901.jpg?timestamp=1642780993" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/25/376047/the-evolution-of-mens-mentality-and-stereotypes-throughout-the-decades" target="_blank">The Evolution of Men's Mentality and Stereotypes Throughout The Decades</a></h4>
<p>African-American oppression is a crucial human rights problem that must be addressed in social work practice. In such an atmosphere, it is critical to comprehend the mentality of African ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/25/376047/the-evolution-of-mens-mentality-and-stereotypes-throughout-the-decades">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:cb1522e7-8b4a-41ec-8ede-2ac24efbf7de2022-01-19T15:56:21-05:002022-01-19T15:56:26-05:00On the TLC Tip: A Budget-Friendly Winter Skincare Regimen2022-01-20 09:00:00 -0500Nana Ama Addo<p>Winter weather can be tough on the skin. The skin, the body’s largest organ, needs TLC to optimize its elasticity and protection during the cold months. A good skin care regimen may also help to boost self-esteem and alleviate <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/11/06/373464/strategies-for-battling-seasonal-depression&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999527315&usg=AOvVaw1aYIkDuWcW9aSdMFJIj6KV">seasonal affective disorder</a>. Let’s get into it.</p><p></p><p>Skin types are often the result of genetics and environmental factors such as sun exposure. Here are the main skin types and their characteristics:</p><p></p><p><b>Oily skin</b> has overactive sebum-producing glands. Sebum is a wax or oil-like substance produced by your body to coat, protect, and moisturize the skin. People with oily skin may have enlarged pores.</p><p></p><p><b>Dry skin</b> has underactive sebum producing glands and is normally characterized by flakiness, rough patches, or sometimes cracking. Winter weather may exacerbate or increase the chances of dry skin.</p><p></p><p><b>Normal skin</b> is characterized as being neutral, neither excessively oily or excessively dry, or well balanced.</p><p></p><p><b>Combination skin </b>may include a mixture of oily, dry, and normal skin on different parts of the face.</p><p><br></p><p></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/09/10/368123/how-to-get-rid-of-acne-scars-on-melanated-skin" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/851990/fit/80x80/acne.png?timestamp=1642625527" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/09/10/368123/how-to-get-rid-of-acne-scars-on-melanated-skin" target="_blank">How to Get Rid of Acne Scars on Melanated Skin</a></h4>
<p>We’ve all been through the trials and tribulations of experimenting with what works to get skin clear and even. An unexpected pimple is annoying enough, but the acne scars and dark marks ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/09/10/368123/how-to-get-rid-of-acne-scars-on-melanated-skin">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><p></p><p>A good skin care regimen starts with one’s diet. Eating foods with beta carotene, an antioxidant and plant pigment that has proven to benefit the skin, cognitive function, eye health, lungs, and protect against UV radiation, will help to optimize your skin’s health this winter and during the whole year. Some beta carotene-containing foods to include in your diet are carrots, kale, spinach, cantaloupe, peas, romaine lettuce, cilantro, cayenne pepper, parsley, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes.</p><p></p><p>Drinking skin affirming liquids like water, green tea, lemon water, honey and lemon water, ginger and lemon juice, fruit juices, turmeric milk, cucumber juice, carrot and beetroot juice, and broth will help to replenish your skin. Too much alcohol in the winter can dry out your skin.</p><p><br></p><p></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/05/26/357224/meaningful-beauty-holistic-diy-facial-skin-care-routines" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/824249/fit/80x80/holistic_20beauty.png?timestamp=1642625492" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/05/26/357224/meaningful-beauty-holistic-diy-facial-skin-care-routines" target="_blank">Meaningful Beauty: Holistic DIY Facial Skin Care Routines</a></h4>
<p>Beautician Sonia Singh began practicing natural skincare 20 years ago. She specializes in using natural herbal products. I was able to go to her salon this afternoon and witness her work ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/05/26/357224/meaningful-beauty-holistic-diy-facial-skin-care-routines">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><p></p><p>After a skin-affirming diet comes a good soap.</p><p></p><p>African Black soap is a natural, fragrance-free, antibacterial and antifungal soap that balances skin’s oil production, and is said by Healthline to potentially remove more bacteria than chemical-based soaps. This versatile soap is used to treat skin irritation, rashes, eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, hyperpigmentation, and more. Black soap is produced in varying parts of Africa and is usually made from cocoa pods, palm oil, plantain bark, shea butter, and coconut oil.</p><p></p><p>Black soap can be harsh on some skin types, so a Black soap that is mixed with other ingredients may be less abrasive on your skin. The Madina brand offers affordable African Black Soap variations like Madina African Black Soap, Shea Butter and Aloe Vera, or Madina African Black Soap, Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E, and can be found at local stores like Walmart. Some African Black soap variations have exfoliating beads. Drugstore exfoliators like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Daily Scrub can help remove dead skin, and can be found at stores like Walmart and Target.</p><p></p><p>Drying your skin with a face towel can be tricky, as one may be wiping bacteria from a towel onto a clean face. It may be helpful to let your face air dry. A few years ago, I began applying my moisturizer to my face while my face is still wet, and I discovered that the water itself helps my skin to retain moisture.</p><p><br></p><p></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/01/373422/7-black-owned-vegan-beauty-brands-to-add-to-your-skincare-routine" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/864732/fit/80x80/cruelty_20free.jpg?timestamp=1642625472" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/01/373422/7-black-owned-vegan-beauty-brands-to-add-to-your-skincare-routine" target="_blank">7 Black-Owned Vegan Beauty Brands to Add to Your Skincare Routine</a></h4>
<p>There’s a growing demand that beauty brands become more sustainable as well as cruelty-free and thankfully, there are plenty of Black-owned vegan beauty brands for you to support. We’ve r... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/01/373422/7-black-owned-vegan-beauty-brands-to-add-to-your-skincare-routine">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><p></p><p>Now that we have covered utilizing a good diet, soap that works well and hygienically drying one’s skin, we move on to moisturizing.</p><p></p><p>The skin is composed of 64% water. Water-based moisturizers are recommended by dermatologists due to water’s ability to lock in moisture without clogging pores. Good and affordable water-based moisturizers like CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion can be found at stores like Walmart and Target.</p><p></p><p>APDerm advises people to wear sunscreen-based moisturizers in the winter to prevent sun damage during the cold months. There is a common misconception that Black people don’t need sunscreen, and that is absolutely false. To protect yourself against harmful UV rays and sun exposure-related skin ailments, wear products with sunscreen. My go-to sunscreen based product is Nivea Perfect and Radiant Eventone Day Cream. The brand has a moisturizer for normal to combination skin, and one for oily skin.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893509/fill/700x0/pexels-cottonbro-4046416.jpeg?timestamp=1642625577">( Image by Cottonbro via Pexels )<br><br></div><p></p><p>Shea butter is a natural, antifungal, and antibacterial moisturizer made from the shea nut that is awesome for all skin types, and can help to protect your skin this winter. Shea butter is used for stretch marks, acne, scars, and more. It is also estimated to contain a small amount of SPF, which protects the skin from the sun.</p><p></p><p>Applying shea butter over your moisturizer before bracing the winter weather or before going to sleep will help the face to stay moisturized and balanced. Head to your local African store to pick up some affordable shea butter today.</p><p></p><p>Cocoa butter like Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula also offers a great layer of protection and can be found at local beauty stores like Walmart and Target.</p><p></p><p>Lip moisturizers like Blistex and Carmex, which can be found at local corner stores, drugstores, and more, can offer excellent protection this winter.</p><p><br></p><p></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/05/18/356590/naomi-osaka-launches-skincare-brand-for-melanated-skin" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/822865/fit/80x80/naomi_20osaka.png?timestamp=1642625612" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/05/18/356590/naomi-osaka-launches-skincare-brand-for-melanated-skin" target="_blank">Naomi Osaka Launches Skincare Brand for Melanated Skin</a></h4>
<p>Superstar tennis athlete Naomi Osaka is making sure that melanated skin remains protected against the sun with a new skincare brand. Learn more about what KINLÒ will offer. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/05/18/356590/naomi-osaka-launches-skincare-brand-for-melanated-skin">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><p></p><p>Let’s recap: A good winter skincare regimen includes a skin-affirming diet, a thoroughly cleansing soap like African Black soap, a hygienic face drying routine, a water-based skin moisturizer, sunscreen moisturizers, shea butter, and a lip moisturizer like Blistex or Carmex.</p><p></p><p>What winter skincare tips do you have? Comment below!</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Works Cited</b></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://int.eucerin.com/about-skin/basic-skin-knowledge/skin-types&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999531811&usg=AOvVaw22jdMEXKmouBExMRyIW4Vv">https://int.eucerin.com/about-skin/basic-skin-knowledge/skin-types</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/sebum%23purpose&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999532084&usg=AOvVaw2hambfzH20uCEmPx_ORMSc">https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/sebum#purpose</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health/beta-carotene-benefits%23foods-sources&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999532347&usg=AOvVaw1InjLKqwEW928-_reXjkpA">https://www.healthline.com/health/beta-carotene-benefits#foods-sources</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://food.ndtv.com/beauty/juices-for-glowing-skin-9-elixirs-to-drink-up-for-a-healthy-skin-1833788&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999532618&usg=AOvVaw3Np0Tu1kMDujgQyn9m-f5L">https://food.ndtv.com/beauty/juices-for-glowing-skin-9-elixirs-to-drink-up-for-a-healthy-skin-1833788</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.femina.in/wellness/diet/5-morning-drinks-for-clear-skin-186862.html&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999532893&usg=AOvVaw0xc_wpWj9h8I_4ci-sbGGN">https://www.femina.in/wellness/diet/5-morning-drinks-for-clear-skin-186862.html</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/african-black-soap-benefits%23takeaway&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999533157&usg=AOvVaw1mSqT0-WAcsCv3LB0WSJrh">https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/african-black-soap-benefits#takeaway</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wellandgood.com/wellness-tech-best-buy/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999533522&usg=AOvVaw2BcrknevjZx0VL4f87T4aR">https://www.wellandgood.com/wellness-tech-best-buy/</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/what-is-shea-butter%23sun-protection&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999533804&usg=AOvVaw0k6dSoxQqP_hTUB4tg9nEl">https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/what-is-shea-butter#sun-protection</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/water-you-water-and-human-body&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999534084&usg=AOvVaw0NQ8T4oD8B5J-Js80_2jMD">https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/water-you-water-and-human-body</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/790279/fill/300x0/nana_20ama_20addo_202.jpg?timestamp=1642625717"></div><p> Nana Ama Addo is a writer, multimedia strategist, film director, and storytelling artist. She graduated with a BA in Africana Studies from the College of Wooster, and has studied at the University of Ghana and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Nana Ama tells stories of entrepreneurship and Ghana repatriation at her brand, Asiedua’s Imprint<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.asieduasimprint.blog/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999534700&usg=AOvVaw2dNbGG0dAjGZO2CtaMopVB"> </a>( <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.asieduasimprint.com&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1642628999534843&usg=AOvVaw0Ov3uY7EUZtXpSbr_D5R1w">www.asieduasimprint.com</a> ).</p><div><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br>Read more from Nana Ama Addo:<br><br><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/30/378722/the-2022-glow-up-strategically-designing-and-manifesting-your-next-upgrade" target="_blank"><img alt=" Image by Rodnae Productions via Pexels httpswwwpexelscomphoto3-women-sitting-on-bed-6224422 " src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/876452/fit/80x80/pexels-rodnae-productions-6224422.jpeg?timestamp=1642625761" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/30/378722/the-2022-glow-up-strategically-designing-and-manifesting-your-next-upgrade" target="_blank">The 2022 Glow-Up: Strategically Designing and Manifesting your Next Upgrade</a></h4>
<p>If you are reading this, congratulations! You have made it to the end of the year! Looking towards the future, with proper planning and execution, and with the odds in our favor, achievin... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/30/378722/the-2022-glow-up-strategically-designing-and-manifesting-your-next-upgrade">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/09/377757/winter-fashion-trends-of-2021" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/874216/fit/80x80/winter_20fashion_20header.png?timestamp=1642625767" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/09/377757/winter-fashion-trends-of-2021" target="_blank">Winter Fashion Trends of 2021</a></h4>
<p>’Tis the season of the winter slay! With the arrival of the COVID-19’s omicron variant, the future of ‘outside’ this winter is questionable. However, it's a great feeling to dress up for ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/09/377757/winter-fashion-trends-of-2021">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/16/387394/winter-fire-safety-101" target="_blank"><img alt="Matches Photo by Maksim Goncharenok from Pexels " src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892441/fit/80x80/pexels-maksim-goncharenok-5995309.jpeg?timestamp=1642625775" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/16/387394/winter-fire-safety-101" target="_blank">Winter Fire Safety 101</a></h4>
<p>On January 5th, 2022, 12 Philadelphians perished in a house fire. On January 9th, 2022, a Bronx apartment caught fire and claimed the lives of 18, and injured over 60 people due to a faul... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/16/387394/winter-fire-safety-101">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:955eccf6-1fbc-4555-911b-7bdb9a02c7462022-01-19T09:51:59-05:002022-01-19T09:52:03-05:00Importance of Glaucoma Awareness Month2022-01-19 10:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. Glaucoma has no early symptoms and that’s why half of the people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. The National Eye Institute projects this number of those with glaucoma will reach 4.2 million by 2030, a 58% increase. </p><br><p>Glaucoma is an eye disease that can damage your optic nerve. The optic nerve supplies visual information to your brain from your eyes. Over time, the increased pressure can erode your optic nerve tissue, which may lead to vision loss or even blindness. If it’s caught early, you may be able to prevent additional vision. The most common type of glaucoma is primary open-angle glaucoma. It has no signs or symptoms except gradual vision loss. Acute angle closure glaucoma, which is also known as narrow-angle glaucoma, is a medical emergency. Symptoms include:</p><br><ul><li><p>severe eye pain</p></li><li><p>nausea</p></li><li><p>vomiting</p></li><li><p>redness in your eye</p></li><li><p>sudden vision disturbances</p></li><li><p>seeing colored rings around lights</p></li><li><p>sudden blurred vision</p></li></ul><div><br><br></div></span><span><p>Glaucoma is usually, but not always, the result of abnormally high pressure inside your eye. The back of your eye continuously makes a clear fluid called aqueous humor. As this fluid is made, it fills the front part of your eye. Then, it leaves your eye through channels in your cornea and iris. If these channels are blocked or partially obstructed, the natural pressure in your eye, which is called the intraocular pressure (IOP), may increase. As your IOP increases, your optic nerve may become damaged. As damage to your nerve progresses, you may begin losing sight in your eye.</p><br><p>Glaucoma occurs in the U.S. Black population at a higher rate than in whites and other minorities, with three to four times greater prevlalence of the disease in Blacks than in whites, and a six times-greater risk for blindness. Epidemiologic data gathered by the Barbados Eye Studies and the Baltimore Eye Survey have confirmed the higher prevalence of glaucoma in Blacks. In the study, more than 4,000 Black participants, aged 40 to 84 years, had a 7% prevalence of glaucoma. However, that researchers have found that not all Black populations have the same prevalence of glaucoma.</p><br><p><a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/article-abstract/639214#:~:text=August%201991-,Relationship%20Between%20Intraocular%20Pressure%20and%20Primary%20Open%20Angle%20Glaucoma%20Among,Americans%20The%20Baltimore%20Eye%20Survey&text=Roughly%20half%20of%20all%20subjects,that%20they%20had%20the%20condition.">The Baltimore Eye Survey</a> found a lower rate of glaucoma in Black Americans than the Barbados study found in Black Caribbeans. The Baltimore study found a prevalence of almost 4% in Black Americans compared to a 1.7% prevalence in whites. A family history of glaucoma is a key risk factor for the development of the disease. The <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/423921#:~:text=The%20African%20Descent%20and%20Glaucoma%20Evaluation%20Study%20(ADAGES)%20was%20begun,in%20persons%20of%20African%20ancestry.">African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study Group (ADAGES)</a> study found that Black people often have larger optic nerves. This may be important as people with larger nerves are often misdiagnosed with glaucoma.</p><br><p>The genetic link can be a threat to persons of any race. Research has shown that siblings of persons diagnosed with glaucoma have nearly a ten-fold increased risk of having glaucoma when compared to siblings of persons without glaucoma. Chronic eye inflammation and thin corneas can lead to increased pressure in your eyes. Another finding from the ADAGES is that African Americans have thinner corneas than those of European descent and thin corneas are a known risk factor for glaucoma.</p><br><p>Regular eye exams are especially important for those at higher risk for glaucoma and may help to prevent unnecessary vision loss. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye examination. Then, if you have glaucoma, treatment can begin immediately.</p><p> </p><p>Several medicines designed to reduce IOP are available. These medicines are available in the form of eye drops or pills, but the drops are more common. If a blocked or slow channel is causing increased IOP, your doctor may suggest surgery to make a drainage path for fluid or destroy tissues that are responsible for the increased fluid. Treatment for angle-closure glaucoma is different. A laser procedure called laser peripheral iridotomy may also be performed. This procedure creates small holes in your iris to allow for increased fluid movement.</p><br><p>While there are no known ways of preventing glaucoma, blindness or significant vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented if the disease is recognized in the early stages. Maintaining a healthy body weight lowers your risk of developing diabetes or high blood pressure which, in turn, decreases your likelihood of developing classic glaucoma or glaucoma-like retinopathy. Wearing protective eyewear is important when engaged in sports activities or home DIY projects. Eye injuries can result in traumatic glaucoma or secondary glaucoma, so protecting your eyes from injury is another way to prevent glaucoma. If you have hypertension, check your pressure every morning and every night by keeping a log of your pressures and see your doctor if your pressure spikes, or if you have chronically elevated pressures. Regular exercise, low-sodium and low-calorie diets can help you control your blood pressure and minimize the risk of developing hypertension-related glaucoma.</p><br><p><b>Source</b></p><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/glaucoma">Healthline</a></p><p><a href="https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/outreach-campaigns-and-resources/glaucoma-resources/glaucoma-awareness-month">National Eye Institute</a></p><p><a href="https://www.brightfocus.org/glaucoma/article/how-glaucoma-affects-different-ethnic-groups">Bright Focus Foundation</a></p><p><a href="https://www.unicityhealthcare.com/what-we-all-should-know-during-glaucoma-awareness-month/">Uncity Healthcare</a></p><p><a href="https://www.healio.com/news/ophthalmology/20120331/high-glaucoma-prevalence-in-blacks-leaves-questions-about-treatment#:~:text=Glaucoma%20occurs%20in%20the%20U.S.,times%2Dgreater%20risk%20for%20blindness.">Healio</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1642603729"></div><span><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><p><br></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022" target="_blank"><img alt="Small Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health in 2022" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892401/fit/80x80/mental_20health_202022.png?timestamp=1642603823" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022" target="_blank">Small Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health in 2022</a></h4>
<p>Self-care won't solve every problem, but these quick and easy activities may at least bring some happiness to your day, and care for your mental health. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/08/374294/does-psoriasis-affect-black-people-differently-" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/866537/fit/80x80/psoriasis.png?timestamp=1642603857" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/08/374294/does-psoriasis-affect-black-people-differently-" target="_blank">Does Psoriasis Affect Black People Differently?</a></h4>
<p>It doesn’t seem entirely surprising that a skin disease could present differently in people of various ethnicities and skin colors. Learn more about psoriasis and how it affects Black pe... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/08/374294/does-psoriasis-affect-black-people-differently-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/20/378660/the-link-between-utis-and-sex-causes-and-how-to-prevent-them" target="_blank"><img alt="The Link Between UTIs and Sex Causes and How to Prevent Them" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/876220/fit/80x80/uti.png?timestamp=1642603892" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/20/378660/the-link-between-utis-and-sex-causes-and-how-to-prevent-them" target="_blank">The Link Between UTIs and Sex: Causes and How to Prevent Them</a></h4>
<p>UTI is a common health issue both men and women deal with and can be a major inconvenience. Learn more about how your sex life could be contributing to you constantly getting UTIs and wha... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/20/378660/the-link-between-utis-and-sex-causes-and-how-to-prevent-them">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><span><p><br></p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6702cb56-7036-40d3-ae00-e01132d6d3712022-01-18T11:53:33-05:002022-03-22T12:49:39-04:005 Natural and Healthy Snack Ideas with Low Carbs2022-01-18 12:00:00 -0500Jessica Uchechi Nwanguma<p>For a long time, whenever the word 'snacking' was mentioned, all that came to mind were foods that were deemed unhealthy, overprocessed, harmful, and high in carbs.<br></p><p></p><p>In the past, medical and health professionals have advised people to stay away from snacks because they believed snacking posed a higher risk of cancer and obesity.</p><p></p><p>But today, the narrative has changed. That is because there are natural and healthy snack ideas with low carbs that help to nourish the body and protect it from dangerous diseases.</p><p></p><p>According to MedlinePlus, a healthy snack between meals will not only decrease your hunger but will also keep you from overeating at mealtime!</p><p></p><p>Here are 5 natural healthy snack ideas you should try out.</p><p><br></p><p></p><h4>Slices of Apple and Homemade Peanut Butter.</h4><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893123/fill/700x0/apple_20slices.jpg?timestamp=1642524848">(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)<br><br></div><p></p><p>This combination is not only mouthwatering, it is also nutritious!</p><p>Apple is a good antioxidant and a good source of fiber, while peanut butter, when taken in moderation, aids in weight loss and manages blood sugar levels.</p><p><br></p><h4>Mixed Nuts.</h4><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893125/fill/700x0/nuts.jpg?timestamp=1642525735">(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)<br><br></div><p></p><p>Mixed nuts range from a combination of any of these: hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, walnuts, etc.</p><p>Nuts are a great source of antioxidants. They can also help with weight loss, lowering cholesterol, benefiting type 2 diabetes, and are high in healthy fiber. To prevent overeating nuts, stick to a portion of 30g at a time.</p><p><br></p><h4>Hard-Boiled Eggs.</h4><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893126/fill/700x0/eggs.jpg?timestamp=1642525836">(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)</div><p></p><p>Eggs are a protein and nutrient powerhouse, rich in Vitamin B2, B12, and B5.</p><p>It may be high in cholesterol, but an intake of 3-4 eggs per week will benefit the heart.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h4>Popcorn.</h4><br><p></p><p></p></div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893127/fill/700x0/popcorn.jpeg?timestamp=1642525938">(Photo Credit: Unsplash, Edgar Soto.)<br><br></div><p></p><p>Popcorn is a whole grain food rich in vitamin B1, B3, B6, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese. It is also considered one of the world's best sources of fiber. (Dietary fiber decreases the chance of constipation).</p><p>It would help if you stayed away from popcorn made with trans or saturated fats. This is because it can lead to bronchitis obliterans, popularly known as ‘popcorn lung’.</p><p>Coconut/olive oil is a better option.</p><p><br></p><h4>Broccoli.</h4><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893129/fill/700x0/broccoli.jpg?timestamp=1642526119">(Photo Credit: Foodiesfeed.)<br><br></div><p></p><p>Broccoli is low in calories and rich in nutrients.</p><p>It reduces cancer risk, as it is a cruciferous vegetable that prevents cell damage. Like every other dietary fiber, it also prevents constipation.<br><br><br></p><p></p><p>Do you know any more healthy snack ideas?</p><p>Could you drop them? In the comment below!<br><br>For more snack and food ideas, <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/pages/subscribe" target="_blank">subscribe to our email list</a>!<br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893106/fill/300x0/jessica_20uchechi.png?timestamp=1642526276"></div><p> Jessica Uchechi Nwanguma is a Writer, Content and Social Media Strategist. She has a degree in Dental Technology and several certifications and has taken courses on Writing, SEO and digital and content marketing. Her book 'Beyond Agadez: the untold stories of the victims of human trafficking and organised crime.' is available on Amazon Kindle. She can be found online on <a href="http://candour.substack.com/" target="_blank">Candour.substack.com</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Jessica Uchechi Nwanguma:<br></p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/18/387703/5-most-profitable-side-hustles-that-can-afford-you-a-luxury-life" target="_blank"><img alt="pPhoto Credit Pexels Vincent Rivaudp" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/893107/fit/80x80/pexels-photo-261102.jpeg?timestamp=1642526309" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/18/387703/5-most-profitable-side-hustles-that-can-afford-you-a-luxury-life" target="_blank">5 Most Profitable Side Hustles That Can Afford You a Luxury Life</a></h4>
<p>More people now have the opportunity to make hundreds, thousands, and even millions from side hustles.
<span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/18/387703/5-most-profitable-side-hustles-that-can-afford-you-a-luxury-life">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><p>These articles may also interest you:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/877656/fit/80x80/detox.png?timestamp=1642526388" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year" target="_blank">Healthy Ways to Detox Your Body For A Fresh Start to the New Year</a></h4>
<p>Think you’ve overdone it and not treated your body well? These easy ways to recuperate will help you feel healthier than ever. Since all of these tips are consistent with a healthy lifest... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/12/29/379417/healthy-ways-to-detox-your-body-for-a-fresh-start-to-the-new-year">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div><p>
</p><p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/11/20/375359/what-is-malanga-and-is-it-healthy-the-benefits-of-the-root-vegetable-explained" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/869354/fit/80x80/malanga.png?timestamp=1642526456" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/11/20/375359/what-is-malanga-and-is-it-healthy-the-benefits-of-the-root-vegetable-explained" target="_blank">What Is Malanga and Is It Healthy? The Benefits of the Root Vegetable Explained</a></h4>
<p>If you’ve grown tired of potatoes and looking for a healthier version of this root vegetable, look no further than malanga. Learn more about malanga and why it’s a healthy substitute. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/11/20/375359/what-is-malanga-and-is-it-healthy-the-benefits-of-the-root-vegetable-explained">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/04/08/352801/how-black-women-are-embracing-their-health-amid-a-pandemic" target="_blank"><img alt="pFigure 1 - You dont need the gym Practice outdoor fitness with your girls or individuallybrp" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/814361/fit/80x80/running-buddies-1024x683.jpeg?timestamp=1642526550" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/04/08/352801/how-black-women-are-embracing-their-health-amid-a-pandemic" target="_blank">How Black Women Are Embracing Their Health Amid a Pandemic</a></h4>
<p>Many Black women are using a natural lifestyle work method when it comes to holistic health and fitness during the pandemic. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/04/08/352801/how-black-women-are-embracing-their-health-amid-a-pandemic">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><p> </p><div><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:cf941fb2-aaa3-4b58-adae-24646949ad042022-01-16T10:28:21-05:002022-01-19T11:36:02-05:00Simeca Alexander: Breastfeeding and Lactation Specialist Improving Breastfeeding Confidence One Mother at a Time2022-01-16 15:00:00 -0500Candice Stewart<span><h4>Introducing Simeca</h4><p>Health and wellness have always been at the forefront of Simeca Alexander's mind. As a child, she knew her life's mission would lead to that field. It is with that early self-awareness that she embarked on the journey of improving lactation and breastfeeding.</p><p>Straight out of high school, Alexander pursued her BSc. in Dietetics and Nutrition at the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica. From there, she did a six-week externship with the then Ministry of Health (now Ministry of Health and Wellness). There, she met the only internationally Board Certified Breastfeeding and Lactation Consultant in Jamaica, Ms. Violet Griffith - her preceptor.</p><p>She shadowed Griffith during visits and consultations at health centers where they assisted mothers with breastfeeding, positioning, and other related matters. It was at that time that Simeca was introduced to lactation. </p><p>After completing her externship, she embarked on a journey to attaining her Master's degree in Public Health with a major in Health Management in 2018. Staying true to her self-awareness, that was the right and comfortable position for her to take. </p><p>It was during that time that her son, Caleb, came to be. </p><p>"With the birth of Caleb, I understood more than ever that knowledge of breastfeeding and lactation for newborn mothers is extremely important. I was empowered to bond more with my baby and use the tools in my breastfeeding toolkit to ensure that my baby was exclusively breastfed for six months," Alexander says in a recent interview with FunTimes Magazine.</p><br><h4>About Nutrition and babies</h4><p>"Nutrition starts from birth so anything that we can do in the beginning makes it better," Simeca tells FunTimes Magazine.</p><p>"It is the World Health Organization’s mandate to have babies exclusively breastfed for at least the first 6 months of their lives. Babies should not be given water, juice, or anything else. Only breast milk! Based on the culture that we have in Jamaica, that can be a very difficult lesson to teach," she continues.</p><p>She explains that for many reasons such as with old wives’ tales, many Jamaicans say that the baby should be given tea or glucose water. However, she notes that if that practice continues, the children end up malnourished because they’re not getting the proper nutrients. </p><p>"Breast milk is free, it is safe, and it is the perfect form of nutrition for babies. They don’t need anything else for the first 6 months of life," Alexander emphasized.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892616/fill/700x0/simeca_20bevony.jpeg?timestamp=1642346692">Simeca Alexander helping Bevony Singh with positioning. Bevony gave birth in September of 2021. She was worried at the time of the photo that she wasn't making enough milk. (Photo Credit: Chris Fuller)</div></span><span><br><h4><br></h4><h4>Pursuing an International Certification as a Breastfeeding and Lactation Consultant</h4><p>"I am working to be among the International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC). The certification comes from the <a href="https://iblce.org/about-iblce/">International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE)</a>. They are an independent international certification body conferring the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant credential. So in the meantime, I am referred to as a specialist, " she says.</p><p><a href="https://iblce.org/about-iblce/">IBCLC Consultants</a> "function and contribute as members of the maternal-child health team. They provide care in a variety of settings while making appropriate referrals to other health professionals and community support resources. Working together with mothers, families, policymakers, and society, [certified IBCLC consultants] provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote changes that support breastfeeding, and help reduce the risks of not breastfeeding."</p><p>Simeca has fulfilled roughly 90% of the requirements, with only a mandatory exam left to sit. She will do so in March or April of this year.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892617/fill/700x0/simeca_20ashley.jpeg?timestamp=1642346767">Breastfeeding and lactation Specialist, Simeca Alexander in discussion with Mrs. Ashley Wong, who recently had her baby. (Photo Credit: Chris Fuller)<br><br><br></div></span><span><h4>Breastfeeding and Lactation in Jamaica</h4><p>With Ms. Griffith currently being the only internationally certified consultant in Jamaica, Simeca hopes to join her, the Community Health Aides (CHAs), and nurses who are trained across the island to go into the health centers and hospitals to assist mothers with breastfeeding. </p><p>"Thus far, I’ve been going into antenatal clinics and talking with the mothers - having one-on-one discussions and presenting to them the different aspects of breastfeeding. This includes the benefit to both mother and child, the storage of breast milk in and outside of the refrigerator, how to warm the breast milk properly so that it doesn’t destroy the nutrients and doesn’t burn the baby," the breastfeeding specialist tells FunTimes Magazine. </p><p>"In addition to that, I teach newborn mothers and their partners about the positioning of the baby at the breast to ensure that they latch and get fed properly, which allows for less pain and discomfort to the mother in order to achieve successful breastfeeding," she continues.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892619/fill/700x0/victoria_20jubilee_20hospital.jpeg?timestamp=1642346841">Ms. Alexander demonstrating the correct methods of breastfeeding to a couple on the materno-fetal medicine unit of the Victoria Jubilee Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica. (Photo Credit: Contributed)</div></span><span><br><h4><br></h4><h4>Breastfeeding and Lactation Goals for Mothers</h4><p>"My goal is to make breastfeeding as comfortable as possible for mothers who want to breastfeed. I want to teach them how to do so without any form of hindrance," Simeca tells FunTimes Magazine. </p><p>Alexander, who wants to arm mothers with enough information and practical tips to better care for their child through breastfeeding, and giving newborn mothers the tools on how to do complementary feeding, as well as how to introduce children to other foods after 6 months, says breastfeeding her son was a "life-changing and beautiful experience", and she wants other mothers to experience similar situations.</p><p>"My son is now 2 years old and I exclusively breastfed him for 6 months," she says.</p><p>In fulfilling these goals, Ms. Alexander has created a business from her passion amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. <a href="https://www.cradleoflifeltd.com/">Cradle of Life Limited</a> is focused primarily on offering breastfeeding support for newborn mothers by way of nurturing and empowering mothers along their journey. Additionally, in the latter part of 2021, Ms. Alexander was pushed even further by her passion to help mothers in need through a Foundation arm of the business.</p><p>Since the journey with Cradle of Life, Ms. Alexander has been identified as the 'breast lady'. She demonstrates with a life-size newborn doll called 'Jessica' and a knitted nipple prop. She has been highlighted in local media such as the Jamaica Observer, on Smile Jamaica, an early morning TV show, and a radio appearance on Nationwide News Network. The breastfeeding and lactation specialist has also hosted at least one breastfeeding and lactation workshop with pregnant and newborn mothers, accompanied by their partners.</p><p>"I am excited and I feel so blessed to be able to help mothers and their newborn children to experience the bonds that ought to be felt," she says.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Sources</b>: </p><p>IBLCE:</p><p><a href="https://iblce.org/about-iblce/">https://iblce.org/about-iblce/</a> </p><p>The Jamaica Observer:</p><p><a href="https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/your-health-your-wealth/-the-breast-lady-lactation-specialist-simeca-alexander-restoring-breastfeeding-confidence-in-women_235036">https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/your-health-your-wealth/-the-breast-lady-lactation-specialist-simeca-alexander-restoring-breastfeeding-confidence-in-women_235036</a> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/891963/fill/300x0/candice2.jpg?timestamp=1642346294"></div><div> Candice Stewart is a Jamaican content writer specializing in human interest feature stories. She is a web content writer, blogger, and budding podcaster.<br><br></div><div>She holds an MA in Communication for Social and Behaviour Change and a BSc. in Psychology from the University of the West Indies (UWI, Mona).<br><br></div><div><span>Follow her blog at <a href="http://thesuburbangirlja.com/" target="_blank">thesuburbangirlja.com</a>, where she shares stories and life lessons through real-life experiences.<br><br><br>Read more from Candice Stewart:<br><br></span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/11/387245/leadership-trends-to-explore-in-2022" target="_blank"><img alt="Leadership Trends to Explore in 2022" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/891958/fit/80x80/pexels-photo-1181370.jpeg?timestamp=1642346312" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/11/387245/leadership-trends-to-explore-in-2022" target="_blank">Leadership Trends to Explore in 2022</a></h4>
<p>Though it’s great for individuals who believe in the power of resolutions and intentions for the new year, let’s not limit the ‘turning of a new leaf’ at the personal level. The improveme... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/11/387245/leadership-trends-to-explore-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/01/16/387390/ida-b-wells-black-journalist-and-suffragist-honored-with-new-barbie-doll" target="_blank"><img alt="Ida B Wells photograph Wikimedia Commons Ida B Wells Barbie doll Jason TidwellMattel" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/892424/fit/80x80/ida_20b_20wells.jpg?timestamp=1642346362" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/16/387390/ida-b-wells-black-journalist-and-suffragist-honored-with-new-barbie-doll" target="_blank">Ida B. Wells: Black Journalist And Suffragist, Honored With New Barbie Doll</a></h4>
<p>As written by Adlea Suliman of the Washington Post in a recent release, "Black American journalist, suffragist, and anti-lynching crusader Ida B. Wells will have her likeness transformed ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/16/387390/ida-b-wells-black-journalist-and-suffragist-honored-with-new-barbie-doll">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/06/17/359750/kun-tre-pharaoh-student-at-hbcu-launches-health-brand-ahead-of-ultimate-goal-to-own-hospital-or-healthcare-clinic" target="_blank"><img alt="pFounder and owner of Health Heroes Connect LLC KunTre Pharaohbrp" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/830082/fit/80x80/kuntre_20pharaoh.jpeg?timestamp=1642346380" class="media-object"></a></span>
<div class="media-body">
<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/06/17/359750/kun-tre-pharaoh-student-at-hbcu-launches-health-brand-ahead-of-ultimate-goal-to-own-hospital-or-healthcare-clinic" target="_blank">Kun’Tre Pharaoh: Student at HBCU Launches Health Brand Ahead of Ultimate Goal to Own Hospital or Healthcare Clinic</a></h4>
<p>Kun’Tre Pharaoh, a student at Winston-Salem State University, hopes to one day establish and operate a hospital or healthcare clinic that provides services inclusive of a mixture of holis... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/06/17/359750/kun-tre-pharaoh-student-at-hbcu-launches-health-brand-ahead-of-ultimate-goal-to-own-hospital-or-healthcare-clinic">Read More »</a></span> </p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>