The Rachael Pontillo Show: Recent Episodes
Rachael Pontillo
Did you know that 50% of the beauty schools in the Unites States have closed their doors since 2009? That's a scary statistic, and the beauty industry isn't the only trade that's declined over the past several years. While the reasons why vary (and many are political), it's important to focus on solutions to this growing problem, including preserving and enriching quality aesthetics education.
Read more and watch the video HERE.
Longtime NAA Member and ally, Maxine Drake, is hosting the Beauty Business Summit in Honolulu, Hawaii, October 14-15 2018. This 2-day event is not just a business and marketing intensive designed to grow your business and enrich your life--it's also a way to ensure the future of the aesthetics industry.
Maxine shares all the details about this important event in her interview with NAA President, Rachael Pontillo on the latest episode of the Rachael Pontillo Show.
Connect with Maxine Drake at www.maxinedrake.com. Get your tickets to the 2018 Beauty Business Summit in Hawaii at www.beautybusinesssummit.org
Learn more about the Nutritional Aesthetics® Alliance and join our mission at www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/membership
I want to start by saying I believe everyone is an artist.
Read the full post and leave a comment at https://www.rachaelpontillo.com/how-to-use-art-for-healing-and-manifestation/
I'm not saying everyone can paint like Monet, dance like Misty Copeland, or sing like Celine Dion but I strongly believe that you don't have to be someone who creates art or expresses creativity for a living to be an artist. The suffix "ist" really just means "someone who does this thing that the -ist is attached to."
In today's episode of the Rachael Pontillo Show, herbalist, mama of 5, and artist, Jenel Schaffer offers the same perspective--you don't have to teach art or do art for a living to be an artist--you just have to do art. She also debunks the myth that artistic talent is innate; as an art teacher herself, Jenel believes that art is a learned skill.
I'm down with all that, but that's not why I invited Jenel to be on the show. I invited her, because of her amazing experience of how she used art for healing and coping through hard times in life--and get this--she also used it to manifest a smooth pregnancy, peaceful homebirth, and recovery of her fifth child. In fact, at the time of our interview, Jenel had only given birth two weeks prior!
If Jenel was able to use art to get through pregnancy, childbirth, post-partum recovery and cultivate her own self-love, just imagine how powerful this can be in other areas of life?
In Jenel's own words:
"I am giving credibility to my gifts, and the joy I feel using them is reflected on the outside. There was a time where I wore a lot of makeup to hide myself. Then there was a time where I wore none, in protest. Today, I believe in a balance. I believe in lovingly taking care of your body and your appearance- and that includes the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of our nature."
Connect with Jenel Schaffer at http://jbschafferartist.weebly.com/, where you can also view her artwork, read her blog, learn about her classes, and get more inspiration.
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
What's Your Beauty Archetype? Take the quiz to find out and get your complimentary personalized Beauty Archetype Prescription at www.rachaelpontillo.com/quiz/
Learn to make homemade skincare moisturizers in my free class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Listen to and download this and every episode of The Rachael Pontillo Show (audio) in iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachael-pontillo-show/id1239236958
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Read the full post and leave a comment at https://rachaelpontillo.com/nanocurrent-for-vibrant-skin-jaclyn-peresetsky/
In my bestselling book, Love Your Skin, Love Yourself, I define holistic skincare as “treating the skin from the inside out and outside in using nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices, in addition to high-quality, natural skincare products to nourish and protect the skin.” I want to add my thoughts regarding technologies such as nanocurrent or microcurrent as well, because there are holistic aestheticians who do not believe in the usage of devices of any kind for the skin.
In my practice, I don’t mind the use of non-invasive (meaning they do not break the skin or remove layers of the skin) treatments that utilize technology such as LED, ultrasound, and certain currents (I do prefer bioidentical currents, which mimic ones naturally produced by the body) as a support to other holistic measures such as a whole foods-based diet, positive mindset, healthy lifestyle choices, and a natural (preferably handmade) skincare regimen. I do NOT support the usage of any device, treatment, or technology to REPLACE the aforementioned holistic measures. So all that being said, I recently learned about nanocurrent technology for the skin at the recent International Congress of Esthetics and Spa show in Philadelphia (where I was a speaker), from my friend and colleague, Jaclyn Peresetsky. Jaclyn was this year’s Congress host, and speaker and is also the CEO of Skin Perfect Clinic, Colore Me Perfect custom mineral makeup, and is now the first US distributor of the NanoFace Pro nanocurrent device.
I recently had the opportunity to interview Jaclyn for an episode of The Rachael Pontillo Show, where we definitely talked about nanocurrent, in addition to other therapies such as microcurrent and LED.
Learn more about nanocurrent in the video and leave a comment at https://rachaelpontillo.com/nanocurrent-for-vibrant-skin-jaclyn-peresetsky/
Get the NanoFace Pro at www.nanofacepro.com and learn more about Jaclyn at www.skinperfectclinic.com.
What's Your Beauty Archetype? Take the quiz to find out and get your complimentary personalized Beauty Archetype Prescription at www.rachaelpontillo.com/quiz/
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Listen to and download this and every episode of The Rachael Pontillo Show (audio) in iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachael-pontillo-show/id1239236958
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Read the full post and leave a comment at: https://rachaelpontillo.com/what-your-favorite-color-says-about-you/
As adults, color becomes less fanciful and more regimented. Think house colors, sock choices, work wear. We find ourselves picking whichever color we think is the ‘right choice’ in the situation, disregarding how the color makes us feel. The muted, bland colors seem to fit better in the image of adulthood we’ve created for ourselves. I personally think that many people default to neutrals because they’re either afraid of color (maybe they’ve been told that they ‘can’t’ wear a certain hue), or they haven’t found colors that they feel flatter them. Lucky, there is something called color analysis, which helps you understand which hues work best with the undertones of your skin or hair. But wearing the right colors for your skin tone isn’t the only way we can use color to help improve our lives. Is there a better way we can use color?
For Kylie Boyd, author of the book, Living Life in Colour, who I interview in today’s video, answering this question has become her mission. And like many inspiring stories, it started during a low point in her life, which she talks a bit about in our interview.
Watch the interview at https://youtu.be/H5axWRoPCKc, leave a comment at https://rachaelpontillo.com/what-your-favorite-color-says-about-you/
Connect with Kylie Boyd and learn more about how to use color in your life at http://livinglifeincolour.com.au. Get your copy of Living Life in Colour at: http://amzn.to/2tlGhli
What's Your Beauty Archetype? Take the quiz to find out and get your complimentary personalized Beauty Archetype Prescription at www.rachaelpontillo.com/quiz/
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Listen to and download this and every episode of The Rachael Pontillo Show (audio) in iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachael-pontillo-show/id1239236958
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Read the full article at http://rachaelpontillo.com/why-being-a-divagirl-is-a-good-thing/
I want to start by asking you to come up with one positive word to describe a powerful woman--one who knows what she wants and speaks up for herself. Do you have one that automatically comes to mind? Are you struggling to think of a positive word for this kind of female?
What about the word ‘Diva?’ What comes to your mind when you think of that word?
In my my interview with Majet Reyes, who went from paramedic to DivaGirl Philadelphia owner, we touch on the negative connotations of the word 'diva,' and other words typically used to define strong women, who stand up for what they believe, and don't back down. Majet also talks about DivaGirl® Philly--the first American franchise of DivaGirl she owns, and what's doing to foster intersectional women's empowerment, leadership, and feminism.
Connect with Majet Reyes and learn more about how you can get involved with DivaGirl locally or online at http://community.divagirl-inc.com
What's Your Beauty Archetype? Take the quiz to find out and get your complimentary personalized Beauty Archetype Prescription at www.rachaelpontillo.com/quiz/
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Listen to and download this and every episode of The Rachael Pontillo Show (audio) in iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachael-pontillo-show/id1239236958
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Watch the video to learn more, and read the accompanying blog post at http://rachaelpontillo.com/can-more-intimacy-give-you-glowing-skin/
It’s likely that you’ve read an article that talks about why having sex can make you more beautiful. I’m not the only one, right? The typical list items read something like this: lowering stress reduces premature aging, sex is exercise, and that rosy flush…
These aren’t wrong, per se, but I’ve been curious to see some really compelling research about how being intimate beautifies us.
It’s so interesting to see the evolution of wellness research. For the past several year there’s been a huge focus on gut health and how it connects to emotions and immunity, and now it seems as though sexual wellness is getting its time to shine. I spoke to Dr. Lindsey Berkson, author of the new book, Sexy Brain, who specializes in hormones and recently wrote a book that explains why having orgasms is good for us.
Connect with Dr. Lindsey Berkson and get free bonuses at www.drlindseyberkson.com.
Get your copy of Sexy Brain at www.sexybrainsystem.com
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Subscribe to audio version of The Rachael Pontillo Show on iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rachael-pontillo-show/id1239236958
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Watch the video to learn more, and read the accompanying blog post at http://rachaelpontillo.com/sacred-feminine-can-save-your-life/
Have you ever hit rock bottom? Like REALLY hit rock bottom–as in you seriously don’t know how your life can go on, or if it will ever be the same since everything you thought was your reality is crumbling apart? Maybe it’s a health crisis, a love crisis, a job crisis, an accident, or another type of tragedy. Moments like these bring even the least spiritual or religious people to their knees in prayers to God, Jesus, Allah, or another male “father” deity. I’m not saying that’s wrong to do–but have you ever prayed to the Goddess or sacred feminine?
Zinnia Gupte helps women discover their sacred feminine power through her mentorship and through her Goddess Power oracle cards, which I have to say, I am a little bit obsessed with.
Her Goddess Power Card deck is an excellent tool both for beginners, and longtime practitioners of the sacred feminine. In my interview with Zinnia, we talk about her Goddess Power Cards, which help offer guidance in the mode of healing you most resonate with. Each card character presents a Goddess, professes a mode of power, like trust or strategy, and also offers numerology, flower essence, tarot, and even herbal advice. So essentially it allows you to listen to the wisdom of the goddesses and interpret it in the modality of your choosing.
Connect with Zinnia Gupte and get free bonuses at www.shaktipriestess.com. Purchase the Goddess Power Card deck at https://www.etsy.com/listing/497581497/tarot-deck-goddess-power-cards-sacred?ref=hp_rv
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class/
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLf-E04R_V0uj_tCYis-X7xbfHu0sWmld3
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holisticallyhaute
Subscribe to audio version of The Rachael Pontillo Show on iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/holistically-haute-rachael/id1077478338?mt=2
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute
http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
You’re running late. You’re waiting for a load of laundry to finish washing so you can switch it to the dryer and leave in time to make it to your appointment only 10 minutes late (that’s acceptable, right?).
You’re getting messages from people asking you questions that you don’t have time to answer right now. You stare at the kitchen sink and the small pile of dishes taunts you.
You are in over your head, and you just want to go to bed.
And it turns out you’re not alone, and what you’re experiencing may fall under the category of what Dr. Aviva Romm calls Survival Overdrive Syndrome (SOS). And no, it’s not simply what happens after you more or less neglect your chores and other responsibilities for a few days–it’s something that manifests in your body and can have real symptoms.
Watch the video to learn more, and read the accompanying blog post at http://rachaelpontillo.com/survival-o...
In her new book, The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution, Dr. Aviva has identified the root of this pernicious syndrome and through research and clinical work with tens of thousands of patients has created a drug-free program. The results start immediately and within two weeks you lose excess weight, discover increased energy, sleep better, and so much more. The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution is a true advancement in women’s health.
Connect with Dr. Aviva Romm at wwwavivaromm.com Purchase The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution and get free book bonuses at https://avivaromm.com/bookbonus
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-cl...
Watch more episodes of The Rachael Pontillo Show at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
Subscribe to my channel for MORE expert interviews, holistic skincare, and healthy living tips for women at: https://www.youtube.com/user/holistic...
Subscribe to audio version of The Rachael Pontillo Show on iTunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/h...
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyh... http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
You've done it--you've made the decision that you're going to finally get clear skin. Read this full article at http://rachaelpontillo.com/clear-skin-one-day-at-a-time-interview-with-jolene-hart/
You're going to get rid of acne, rosacea, eczema, melasma, or whatever other skin struggle you've been living with for too long. You're ready to commit to a healthy new skincare regimen and lifestyle.
You are SO ready for this...but you're a little overwhelmed.
Sound familiar?
If so, you are SO not alone. I promise you. Getting clear skin isn't always easy, and with all the information now available online, it can be extremely overwhelming. I see it all the time in my coaching practice--people start off with the best of intentions, and then they find themselves getting stuck in analysis paralysis, overwhelm, or self-sabotage. Of course my job as a coach is to help my clients navigate through these issues--but even the best coach needs a great set of tools, and while some books out there make things more complicated, others really do make things easier.
Jolene Hart is my friend and is one of the amazing women who helped me co-found and build the Nutritional Aesthetics® Alliance. She's also a beauty editor-turned-health coach, and accomplished author of the books Eat Pretty, Eat Pretty Live Well, and her newest (and my personal favorite), Eat Pretty Every Day.
Eat Pretty Every Day: 365 Daily Inspirations for Nourishing Beauty Inside and Out is an absolutely beautiful and colorful book that I really feel takes the overwhelm out of the transition to a clear skin lifestyle. It offers a healthy skincare, self-care, nutrition, or lifestyle habit you can do every day, so that even if you just do one thing, you've already succeeded.
Watch the video to learn more, and read the accompanying blog post at http://rachaelpontillo.com/clear-skin-one-day-at-a-time-interview-with-jolene-hart/
Connect with Jolene Hart at www.jolenehart.com Purchase Eat Pretty Every Day at http://amzn.to/2jBARKd (affiliate link)
Register for your free online DIY skincare class, "Boutique Skincare Basics," at http://createyourskincare.com/free-class
Connect with me at:
http://www.facebook.com/holisticallyhaute http://www.Instagram.com/rachaelpontillo http://www.twitter.com/HHaute http://www.rachaelpontillo.com/ http://www.createyourskincare.com/ http://www.nutritionalaesthetics.com/
Stones are powerful healers. Learn more at http://rachaelpontillo.com/can-stone-medicine-clear-skin/
Stone medicine may seem unfamiliar to you, but it's as old as the Earth, and as Sarah Thomas of www.claritystonemedicine.com, my guest on today's interview will tell you, its wisdom even predates the Earth. And just like other ancient healing modalities like Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and herbalism have seen a strong resurgence here in the western hemisphere, stone medicine has also grown in popularity. We find stones incorporated in spiritual healing circles, sold in health food stores right alongside the organic produce and homeopathic remedies, and in the past year we've seen a huge increase in the presence of stones in spas.
Some of the more holistically minded product lines have introduced products and protocols utilizing gemstones and stone elixirs, and I've even seen main stage lectures about stones and skincare at spa conferences. Jade rollers and gua sha are particularly popular, as well as water pitchers with gemstones in the glass.
I even teach how to make and utilize gemstone elixirs in the bonus module of my online course, Create Your Skincare (www.createyourskincare.com)--that's how strongly I feel about it!
I initially believed that gemstones and gemstone elixirs work on the energetic levels of the body, rather than the physical, similar to how plants do. However when I last attended the Midatlantic Women’s Herbal Conference, I attended a stone medicine seminar with Sarah Thomas, where I learned how they can also affect one’s health physically.
In fact, Sarah taught that one stone in particular, ocean jasper, is known to have adaptogenic properties on the body, meaning it helps it adapt to stress more effectively, similar to how an herb like ashwagandha or holy basil would work. That intrigued me, and to be honest, Sarah’s whole class kind of blew my mind.
As you’ll notice in our interview, Sarah teaches from a very spiritual place, as well as from science (we actually talked about some elements on the periodic chart), and I probably said the words “fascinating” and “mind-blowing” too many times. I think you’ll agree!
My two favorite parts of the interview were:
Sarah’s metaphor of a desperate leprechaun holding vacuums to describe how fluorite helps protect you from other people’s energy at 12:50(which I was excited to then compare to free radicals at 15:05), and…
Sarah’s very simple clear skin apache tears elixir remedy, which she describes at 16:30.
There are many other “gems” (yeah I just did that) in the whole interview, including how to find the best stones for you, how to know how to use them, how to clear them before use, and more. I’d love to know what your favorite part was.
Tell me in the comments at http://rachaelpontillo.com/can-stone-medicine-clear-skin/
About Sarah Thomas:
Sarah Thomas, BS, MAc., LAc., Dipl. Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist and owns Clarity Acupuncture in Asheville, North Carolina. She earned her Masters in Acupuncture from Maryland University of Integrative Health.
Sarah studies extensively with Jeffrey C. Yuen and other master healers and has been steeped in stone and crystal medicine, clinically and academically, for several years. She developed North Carolina’s first Studies in Mineral Healing Program at Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism, teaches yearly national earth and herbal conferences, certifies “stonalists” in a yearly intensives, and leads rockhounding trips for the public into the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains. Her Tao is to assist in the dissemination of the vast knowledge and uncharted potentials of healing with stones.
Connect with Sarah online at www.claritystonemedicine.com, and on Instagram at @claritystonemedicine.
When I first learned about bone broth (read more at http://rachaelpontillo.com/bone-broth-one-thing-can-fix-skin/), I learned about how it's so special--and it's different from other soup--because slowly simmering the bones, herbs, and veggies for so long delivers healthy fats, bioavailable forms of protein (gelatin), minerals and other nutrients that you can only get from inside the bones and cartilage of the beef, poultry, pork, or fish that you're using--not the meat or skin. These nutrients are particularly beneficial to the immune system and gut health (especially since the majority of the immune system lives in the gut), but also helps to build healthy, resilient skin from the inside out which is why we now see it associated with anti-aging skin health claims. What do you think, is the hype real, or is bone broth just another panacea that will fade away once the next big thing hits?
Dr. Kellyann Petrucci says bone broth is her one thing--and it's not going anywhere anytime soon.
I have a real treat for you today, because I'm sharing my interview with the New York Times bestselling author of a book I love (with amazing recipes), Dr. Kellyann's Bone Broth Diet, Dr. Kellyann Petrucci. I really loved that book, it's about how to use my favorite thing--soup--to have gorgeous skin AND improve your overall health. The recipes in that book are quite delicious too! So when I found out that Dr. Kellyann wrote a cookbook with even more recipes--her new one, Dr. Kellyann's Bone Broth Cookbook (which also comes with amazing bonuses!)--I knew I needed to have her on my show. Get Dr. Kellyann's cookbook and bonuses here: http://bit.ly/2fPzmec
What piqued my interest the most about Dr. Kellyann, is that she's a doctor who focuses on a real, whole food solution for just about everyone, before she even considers other treatments or solutions. She's a naturopathic doctor, which means she's more likely to use food as medicine than an allopathic doctor--but even so, I've never talked to a naturopathic doctor who has such a laser focus on one thing, and feels so strongly about how well it works so many things and so many people.
Watch my interview with Dr. Kellyann to learn WHY bone broth is her one thing...
...and what about it is so amazing for the skin, as well as get the scoop about her new book. Dr. Kellyann also debunks the myth that it takes a long time to see results from holistic healing methods--be sure to listen for that!
Read the full post and leave a comment here: http://rachaelpontillo.com/bone-broth-one-thing-can-fix-skin/
We’re familiar with the trope of ‘the working mom,’ the one works 9-5 at the office, comes home, throws a meal together, helps the kids with homework and after school activities, goes to sleep and then does it all again the next day. We're just as familiar with ‘the stay-at-home mom,’ who takes care of the food, the cleaning, the tune ups, homework, chauffeuring, and everything in between. These are very brief summaries of what both types of moms do--I know it's not possible to sum up a mom's duties in one sentence or paragraph :) Both are incredibly full lives and come with equal yet different levels of challenges and amounts of fulfillment.
But one woman is left out of this scene: the work-at-home mom. The Mama CEO. Read more here: http://rachaelpontillo.com/self-care-for-mama-ceos-interview-with-megan-flatt/
Megan Flatt, business strategist and consultant for Mama CEOs offers advice on how to make self-care a reality when you're a busy mom AND entrepreneur.
The Mama CEO Planner System
Megan was struggling to find a planner that worked for her, with her life of wearing all these different hats. She had mom tasks and business tasks and all the necessary things in between, but no planner really accommodated these different facets. So she created one for herself--she literally typed it up in Word and bound it at Staples.
She was working with her clients at how to be more successful at their businesses while being more present with their kids, and one day at a meeting with a client, she pulled out her planner and got the reaction of, ‘WHAT is that?”
Megan realized this was something that her clients could use, that they really needed. Thus, the Mama CEO Planner was born.
Her planner isn’t just a place to write down what you need to do, but it’s this whole system of why are you doing it, how is it going to get done, what’s the actual strategy behind what you’re planning?
My favorite part--and I think the key part--is that it doesn’t compartmentalize your motherhood from your CEO tasks. Because you’re always both. This planner helps make self-care for Mama CEOs a reality.
It’s not about being a robot, but it’s about being realistic and structuring your schedule. Freedom comes from structure--think about yourself like bamboo, whose ability to grow tall and resist strong winds comes from it’s flexibility.
Megan's planner and planning system has radically changed how I tackle being a mom and CEO, and I wanted to share it with you today in case it might do the same for you!
Get Megan's Mama CEO Planner System HERE: https://transactions.sendowl.com/stores/5953/31839
About Megan Flatt:
Megan FlattMegan is a business growth strategist, but what she really does is empower Mama CEOs to create fulfilling lives and set a stellar example for their children. As a mom and a business owner, she herself wants to feel successful in BOTH roles: to be actively actively present for her kids, and build a business she's passionate about. Her mission is to help Mama CEOs achieve the same. Learn more about Megan at www.meganflatt.com
Have you ever noticed how you feel more productive at a certain time of day? Are you one of those people who wakes up raring to go? (I am insanely jealous of those people.) Or do you feel more engaged and focused later in the day, maybe even working on projects late into the night?
Guess what? That’s genetic.
I talked to sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus who has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, and whose work centers around the genetic differences that account for our tendencies to feel most energized at certain times of the day.
He argues that by understanding when you’re most energized and harnessing that power, you can become a more effective and engaging person (and even lose weight).
Dr. Breus simplifies it into four categories that most people fit into. He describes each of them in our interview (Michael and I are both Wolf types). You may know which one you are based on his descriptions in the interview but if not, I’m linking to his quiz below!
Knowing your type and understanding how your hormones fluctuate throughout the day can help you immensely in ways that you might not expect. In our interview, Michael even touches on the best time of day to be intimate with a partner.
Read more and watch the video HERE.
Your chronotype describes your tendency to sleep to sleep at a particular time within a 24-hour period. It’s based off our natural circadian rhythm, which it turns out is related to our genes (one gene in particular).
Knowing how your body prefers to sleep can change your life, from helping you decide when to eat dinner to when is the best time of day to ask your boss for a raise. Living according to your natural circadian rhythm can, quite simply, help you be your best self.
Michael makes it fun by describing the four circadian ‘types’ with mammal mascots: a wolf, bear, lion, or dolphin. You can find out which you are and what that means for your life and your habits by taking The Power of When Quiz. It’s short but thorough, and you might be surprised to find out which category you fit into.
Click here to take Dr. Breus’ sleep quiz
About Dr. Michael Breus
He calls himself the sleep doctor, and let me tell you that he has earned this title! He has had his practice for 16 years and uses a technique called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia to help both children and adults deal with sleep problems without the use of medication. Learn more about Dr. Michael Breus at www.thesleepdoctor.com.
His most recent book The Power of When teaches you the best time to do everything–from drink your coffee to have sex or go for a run–according to your body’s chronotype.
Aromatherapy. It's such a lovely sounding word, isn't it? Read this full post and leave a comment at: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/07/essential-oils-must-know-info.html
Though I was first introduced to aromatherapy many years ago when I studied Horst Rechelbacher's work, I didn't start working with essential oils until years later when I started making my own skincare products. This was also about the same time that many of my health coach colleagues began to get involved with multi-level marketing (MLM) essential oil companies. I had a friend introduce me to a rep, and I'm not gonna lie--I drank the kool-aid and bought in hook, line, and sinker.
I started using essential oils for just about EVERYTHING, because I was told they were so pure and safe.
I ingested them in water and capsules because I was told it was safe, I used them "neat" (undiluted) because I was told it was safe, and I didn't seek outside information, because I was told that everything I needed to know was already available via the company's website and partner websites.
Things were fine for awhile. I loved using my essential oils, and I loved using them especially in my skincare products. My skin loved them too. But then a few things went wrong. I, and some of my friends who I "shared" the oils with got serious reactions. So I pulled back.
I started going through research from brand-neutral resources and realized that I was WAY in over my head. I was also frustrated that the company I was with provided inadequate--and inaccurate--training and usage instructions. So I ended my relationship with that company and became much more cautious and conservative with what I said--and wrote--about essential oils.
Essential oils are powerful substances.
Though essential oils come from plants, they do not have the same effect that an infusion or extract of the plant has on the body. They are far more concentrated and contain volatile compounds. The study of aromatherapy isn't some weekend workshop either--it includes extensive information about the chemistry of the oils, and how they act with different people's body chemistries, which is important to understand. Though they are natural, essential oils deserve the same level of caution that one would give to pharmaceutical drugs.
I also began to study more about herbalism and plant conservation through organizations like United Plant Savers at www.unitedplantsavers.org. Though the influx of herbal remedies is a good thing, it's also a scary thing, because over-harvestation is a very real concern. Essential oils require extensive amounts of plant matter to create a tiny amount of oil. Using them undiluted and liberally is not only potentially unsafe (and completely unnecessary), it also puts certain plant species at risk for extinction.
In this video, aromatherapist and organic skincare formulator, Andrea Ellsworth, of Andrea Ashley Co, to discuss this matter in detail. This is must-know information about essential oils, whether you're brand new to aromatherapy or have been using oils for some time.
About Andrea Ellsworth:
Andrea Ellsworth has an educational background in advanced skincare, organic skincare science, clinical aromatherapy, and has over 10 years experience in the holistic health and spa industry. Andrea has brought together her many passions to create Andrea Ashley Co, a holistic aromatherapy and custom skincare company.
Check out all of Andrea’s resources, online shop, book a 1-on-1 aromatherapy consultation with Andrea, and subscribe to her online magazine, Andrea Ashley, at www.andreaashley.ca.
Learn to create all-natural boutique skincare products in just 6-weeks online at www.createyourskincare.com.
Read this full post and leave a comment at: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/07/essential-oils-must-know-info.html
Why is self-love so hard? Read the full post at http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/07/self-love-interview-andrea-ellsworth.html
Why is it easier to compliment and say kind things to a stranger, but not to ourselves? Why is it hard to take a compliment from a stranger without downgrading ourselves in some way in the process? Is this familiar to you?
"You have really beautiful skin."
"Thanks! It's this new makeup I just bought."
"That's a stunning picture of you."
"Oh I can't take credit--the photographer did a beautiful job."
Self-love is hard. It's a concept nearly as hard to grasp as alternate universes or a female god. But if you're trying to heal your skin--or your physical body in some way, it's where you have to start. It wasn't until I was able to love and accept myself for who I was, no matter what I looked like, that I was guided to make right decisions for my skin and health that ultimately gave me the physical and emotional results I craved.
My guest today is Andrea Ellsworth, of Andrea Ashley Co.
This is part 1 of our interview. Andrea is a lot like me in many ways. She's an aesthetician who was perplexed by the fact that though aestheticians are trusted to help women achieve the skin they want so they can feel how they want, they receive very little brand-neutral training on how to do that. Andrea shares my frustration with the skincare industry, that its main approach is so "either or." Meaning you either have acne OR sensitive skin. Dry skin OR mature skin. So your skin gets treated one way, even if you have other issues present, and without questioning what the potential source of those issues are.
Andrea and I also share the same philosophy that skincare should be customized to each individual person's needs, and that ultimately, using skincare products isn't about clearing up acne or getting some other desired result. It's about helping women feel the way they want (and deserve!) to feel about themselves. In our interview, we certainly talk about custom skincare, and why we feel it's so closely linked to ultimate self-care and self-love. Andrea is also an aromatherapist, and Part 2 will focus more on essential oils and aromatherapy as a holistic skincare philosophy--but Part 1 focuses on custom skincare, but also the bigger issues of women's empowerment and self-love--and how we can make these things easier and more accessible for women.
About Andrea Ellsworth:
Andrea Ellsworth has an educational background in advanced skincare, organic skincare science, clinical aromatherapy, and has over 10 years experience in the holistic health and spa industry. Andrea has brought together her many passions to create Andrea Ashley Co, a holistic aromatherapy and custom skincare company.
Andrea prides herself on providing pure, quality essential oils and creating truly custom, one-of-a-kind products based specifically on each of her clients' individual needs. A big part of her focus is curating an online shop where consumers can rely on safe, honest information, better understand what is going on their skin, and how to properly use essential oils for overall well-being.
Andrea Ashley Co offers custom made skincare, and aromatherapy supplies, as well as raw ingredients for the D.I.Y'ers that are not only kind to the environment, kind to animals, and kind to our skin and bodies; but that also inspire women to be kind to themselves and to each other.
Check out all of Andrea's resources, online shop, and inspirational online magazine, Andrea Ashley, which focuses on holistic skincare, self-care and self-love at www.andreaashley.ca.
Don't miss Part 2! Subscribe for free email updates at www.holisticallyhaute.com/get-free-updates/ so it arrives in your inbox as soon as it's published.
Making the decision to embark on a health journey is hard. Especially in these times of processed this, and packaged that--when people focus more time and energy on living to work than working to live.
Then something happens. Maybe it's a personal health crisis like a sudden weight gain or disease, or maybe you've watched someone you know suffer through their own health crisis. You realize you don't want the quality of your life to be dictated by a condition, and you decide to take matters in your own hands. You do some reading, watch some TV doctor shows, try some diets, maybe even hire a coach or nutritionist--or even go back to school to learn more about nutrition like I did.
You achieve your goals. You arrive at the destination of your health journey. You look and feel better than ever before in your life, and you wonder why you waited long to allow yourself to feel this good. Your diet is perfect, your fitness regime is on point (or maybe it's en pointe:) ), you're doing your journaling and visualizations, you are the epitome of zen. You laugh in the face of your former sugar cravings, shun alcohol, and relish in your early bedtimes. Who needs Netflix? You are a binge-watcher no more.
Then something else happens. Maybe something disrupts your new Rain Man-like routine like a trip or a houseguest. Maybe you fall off the wagon for a day. Or three. Maybe you get in an "if I see another green smoothie or veggie stir-fry, I'm gonna hurl"-type food rut. Maybe you just get bored. It happens. That's why as hard as it is to GET healthy, it's that much harder to STAY healthy.
Click HERE to read this entire post and leave a comment.
You have to start a new health journey. This can be scary! And again, hard. And lots of "selfs" will get in the way: self-sabotage, self-doubt, self-loathing, self-confidence (lack thereof). The good news is that there are ways around all that. In fact, there are ways around the initial feelings of blech that make some people fall off the path of their first journey before they reach the end in the first place.
In today's podcast episode, integrated health coach and functional nutritionist, Trish Ward and I will help you move past those "self" issues, so you can figure out what your next step is in your own personal health journey.
About Trish Ward: Trish M. Ward is an Integrated Holistic Health Coach & Functional Nutritionist whose mission it is to help women create time for their health journeys and have permission to be and feel amazing in their own bodies. She believes that total wellness integrates both Soul & Science. She has helped hundreds of others get their physiology on track and their lifestyles back in check. She finds great joy in guiding others to optimal health.
Visit Trish online at www.trishmward.com and click HERE to take her free 14-day Smoothie Challenge.
Are you struggling with your own skin or health journey? Don't go it alone. Get in touch with a practitioner like Trish, or myself to get the support you need to reach your goals, and continue questing once you've reached one destination.SaveSave
Today, it's my pleasure to share with you a wonderful guest post and podcast episode with integrative nurse practitioner, Lauren Houser, CRNP, about a subject you may not have heard of yet--and that's methylation.
Click HERE to read Lauren's complete post and watch the video of our interview.
Methylation is an area of health where research of the process implications of proper--or inadequate--methylation is still in its infancy, but is rapidly advancing. Here's a bit of a confession for you--methylation is something I'd never heard of until a client that Lauren's practice and I both work with shared with me that methylated supplements were recommended to her after some recent test results. After learning more about it, and after speaking to Lauren about it, I became fascinated--and I hope you do too!
About Lauren Houser
Lauren Houser, CRNP is a fellowship trained integrative nurse practitioner who delivers cutting edge medicine in an engaging format in both one-on-one appointments and through educational community gatherings. She brings hope as well as a practical, holistic approach to her work with patients. Her specialties are digestive concerns, thyroid issues, women’s health and fertility. She sees patients at Philadelphia Integrative Medicine in Wayne, PA. Find out more and connect with Lauren at www.philly-im.com
Would you like some 1-on-1 help to optimize your body's methylation?
I can teach you more about what specific skincare, diet, and lifestyle upgrades to help encourage healthy methylation, and give you practical strategies for how to actually implement them. If you'd like my support, schedule a session today: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/work-with-me/hhhash-it-out
We live in a society where skin, chronic, and autoimmune disorders have become the norm, and "disease management" is considered "healthcare." Fortunately, there are many, many holistic counterparts to pharmaceutical interventions that don't just mask the symptoms of diseases--they actually address the reason why that disease manifested in the first place. But often, the search for alternatives and answers only leaves us with more questions. Did you know you can actually use meditation to get answers to your skin and health questions?
In part 2 of my interview with Dr. Keesha Ewers, she gives a concrete example which shows that the answers are there--but you might be looking in the wrong places. Read the full post, watch the video, and leave a comment HERE: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/06/use-meditation-to-get-answers.html We've gotten so used to searching for answers (and validation) from experts that we've lost the ability to rely on our own intuition. That intuition goes beyond just trusting your gut--it's your direct invitation for a dialog with the Universe, God, Goddess, Collective Consciousness--however you like to say it.
You can use meditation to get answers to even the toughest health questions.
Dr. Keesha Ewers and I had a long discussion (one of many!) about Ayurveda and skincare recently. When I asked her how she found Ayurveda, she told me about how her diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis--an autoimmune condition--triggered her search. What she learned is that she could use meditation to get answers, as well as the ancient practices of yoga and Ayurveda.
In part 2, Dr. Keesha talks in depth about what happens when you meditate, and shares a personal story of how a vision she got from her own meditation practice moved her along on her own journey back to wellness.
About Dr. Keesha Ewers:
Dr. Keesha Ewers, known as functional medicine’s #1 Sexpert is board certified in functional medicine, as well as being a doctor of sexology, psychotherapist, Ayurvedic practitioner, energy worker, yoga teacher, and founder and host of the Healthy YOU! Radio network.
After being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a supposedly incurable autoimmune disease, she was able to cure her own autoimmunity and discover the key to low libido in women. Through her innovative research, Dr. Keesha developed the Freedom Framework, which is designed to get to the root problem of any disease or imbalance. For more information about reading the feedback from your body, Ayurveda, functional medicine and reversing autoimmune disease–and to download your free e-book and take Dr. Keesha’s dosha quiz, please visit www.DrKeesha.com.
Do you need help using meditation to find answers to your skin or health issues?
You can find more information on how to get started with meditation HERE, and you can download a 6-minute guided meditation and visualization HERE. If you need some 1-on-1 support, I can help you either with a customized Spiritual Skincare Affirmation or in a Spiritual Mind Treatment session.
Why is it easier to take a leap of faith when there’s a possibility of miraculously manifesting money, but much harder when talking about improving things like skin, health, or self-image? Read more at: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/05/use-law-of-attraction-get-clear-skin.html
Why is it easier to force your mind to think positively and abundantly when there’s money at stake, but not to eat healthier or practice activities of self-care? Is it because those subjects are too woo-woo too? Or is it something worse–that more people place value on money than they do on their own health and wellbeing? Sadly, the latter rings true. I understand. One of the hardest things to do when you’re feeling bad about something–whether it’s a circumstance around you, or something going on with you personally–is to keep a positive mindset. Life can be really tough sometimes! And during those times, attempting to put on a happy face or repeat positive affirmations in your mind might seem at best inauthentic, and at worst, like a joke. As a metaphysician, part of my work is to help people take harder to grasp (or believe) concepts like the Law of Attraction, and make it relevant to them in their daily lives, so they can see it at work and KNOW that it’s at work. That last part–knowing that it’s at work can be especially challenging. That’s something I, myself, had to learn the hard way (click HERE to read that lesson). In my practice as a health and image coach, as well as in my own personal story, I’ve seen how important a positive mindset is if you truly want positive change to occur. I was not able to improve my own skin and self-image, until I was able to control my thought processes, and convert them from negative to positive. It’s everything–because without it, the Law of Attraction will have the opposite effect. Instead of “like attracts like,” dislike will attract dislike. In this podcast episode, I share a talk I recently gave at the 2nd Annual Diva Girl Philly Conference at the University of Pennsylvania. In this talk, I discuss a bit of how the Law of Attraction works in general, but also how it can be used to help you have the beautiful skin–and self-image–that you want and deserve. Three of the techniques I discuss are: Learn to “catch” negative thought processes, and convert them to something neutral and true. Next time you find yourself scrutinizing your skin in front of the mirror, picking at blackheads, frowning at fine lines or dark spots, STOP. Take a deep breath, and tell yourself something that’s neutral and true. “I have brown hair.” “My shirt is blue.” It’s not negative, or positive–it’s just an observation that’s true. Fake it ’til you believe it. In the video, I talk about how humans learn best by repetition, whether it’s something that’s true or not. Western society teaches women repeatedly that they are too old, too fat, too dark, too emotional, too intense, too much, and so on, ALL THE TIME. We see it in mass media, social media, advertising–we even see it starting with our children. How many times are things people believe about themselves actually true–and how many times are they only true within a false (and broken) societal construct? The more we repeat a behavior, the more true it is. So even if we adopt a “fake” positive attitude, the more we think it, the sooner it will become truth. Use visualization to retrain your brain. Did you know that the brain believes what you tell it to believe? It’s true–and it’s actually really cool, because by using tools like visualization and affirmation, we can influence how the brain reacts to certain stimuli. Visualization is a great tool–and it simply starts with using your imagination. In the video I teach you about my “Goddess You” visualization, which is a tool I use almost every day–and it really helps me. Watch the video below to learn more about these three tips, and get even more practical information about how to use the Law of Attraction to get the image you want. Read more and leave a comment at http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/05/use-law-of-attraction-get-clear-skin.html
Today I bring you a guest post about Ayurvedic Face Mapping, and interview from my friend and colleague, Dr. Keesha Ewers. Read the post and leave a comment HERE:
In this, you'll get a much deeper overview of the ancient science of Ayurveda, as well as insightful descriptions of the different body constitutions, also known as doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha--and what they mean for you, especially if you're someone living with a skin condition or other health condition. Take it away, Dr. Keesha...
Learn more about Dr. Keesha Ewers, download her free e-book, and take her free dosha quiz at www.drkeesha.com.
Holistically Haute™ is the creation of Rachael Pontillo, whose mission is to help women achieve beauty, health, and vitality from the inside out and outside in. We offer fully customized individual, group, and virtual online spiritually-based coaching programs, events, products, online courses, and information to get you started and support you at every stage of your journey.
Visit us at www.holisticallyhaute.com, and subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE.
By the way...there will be a Part 2 of this interview! Be sure you're subscribed to my email community to get notified once it's live.
Something I noticed with some of my earlier students was that even though they learned how to make amazing and effective skincare products for themselves, they didn't yet have the confidence to make them for other people--let along launch a skincare brand! Read more at http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/05/finding-confidence-launch-skincare-brand-interview-melinda-coss.html
The Law of Attraction is at it again.
Oftentimes the students or clients we attract are a reflection of thoughts going on about ourselves in our own minds that we personally need to work out. Funny how the Law of Attraction brings others into our lives to serve as our teachers and mirrors--even if we're the ones who are supposed to teach. Anyway, these students caused me to take a look at my own thoughts surrounding creating skincare products for others--and I realized that I too had a lot of these same confidence issues when I first started.
Once I learned how to make my own boutique skincare products that were right for my skin, I found that my skin looked and felt better than it ever had before. In fact, whenever I was asked to try someone else's products, my skin would get angry and let me know with a rash or breakout (this is one of the reasons I stopped doing product reviews!). And I'd brag about it. A lot. To anyone who would listen. And of course, people starting asking me if I could make products for them.
I'd make excuses about how I only knew how to make products for MY skin, and everyone's skin is different, and this and that, and on and on. Finally I overcame these self-imposed barriers and started making custom products for my clients--and haven't looked back. Many people observe me to be a fairly confident person--and I consider myself a confident person. So what was my hang up?
What I've found for myself--being totally transparent here--is that no matter how much I study, research, practice, teach, write, or experience, I still have fears that I don't know enough.
Today's episode is all about finding confidence--specifically confidence to launch a skincare brand.
Click HERE to read more and watch the video.
It sounds huge, doesn't it? I mean, it's such a huge topic that I felt compelled to ask soap-making legend and international skincare entrepreneur guru, Melinda Coss for her advice on how to find the confidence within to put yourself out there to launch a skincare brand. I've presented several webinars lately, many of them just for aestheticians. The questions asked during and after these webinars are primarily from aestheticians not wondering how to make skincare products, but worrying that the products they make won't be as good or effective as the 'professional' brands they use and sell in their practices. And of course there's the age old concern "I'm afraid I'll screw it up and someone will have a bad reaction." These are valid concerns!
The good news is that finding the confidence to launch a skincare brand as an aesthetician or other skincare practitioner is much easier than you'd think. In fact, when Melinda said what she thought about it, I'm not gonna lie--I had a mix of an 'aha!' and 'duuuhhhhh' moment.
About Melinda Coss:
Melinda Coss is widely credited with pioneering the cold process soap making movement in Europe and in the 90s she created what became the largest hand made soap company in the UK before selling it in 2004 and moving to France.
Melinda now runs business training and mentoring programs for skincare entrepreneurs taking them on a journey she took herself, all the way from the kitchen to major international distribution.
Melinda is the bestselling author of 27 internationally published books on crafts including three dedicated to soap making. She has also helped to set up three social enterprises in rural Africa.
For more information, and to learn more about Melinda's amazing mentoring program, click HERE. (affiliate link)
Do you want to launch a skincare brand?
The first step is to learn how to create beautiful, luxurious, professional quality skincare products. I can teach you how to do that online, in the comfort of your own home, in just 6 weeks. Our next semester starts soon, LIVE.
Go to www.createyourskincare.com for more information and to enroll!
Read the full post and leave a comment here: http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/05/finding-confidence-launch-skincare-brand-interview-melinda-coss.html
Astrology is topic loaded with preconceived notions. Some people live their lives by it, others dabble in it for fun, others consider it too "woo woo" or "out there" to have any validity or practical uses in real life. Read more and comment at www.holisticallyhaute.com/astrology-for-clearer-skin/
In today's Spiritual Skincare Sundays offering, I encourage you to broaden your thinking about astrology--especially in terms of its uses for health and wellness, and specifically, your skin.
I'm going to start out with total honesty--when astrologer and artist, Anne Nordhaus-Bike, first expressed interest in talking to me about astrology's place in skin health, I was skeptical. I've always liked astrology, and have started utilizing it more for planning purposes, but much of it is still new to me. The idea of astrology as a mind-body-spirit healing system was completely new to me--but since I've had great experiences with other mind-body-spirit systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, I was very interested to learn more.
Astrology isn't just about horoscopes-it's about life.
Horoscope_imageIt's about our lives on this planet, at this time, and about our places in the Universe and in time. It's about how our individual bodies react and respond to Universal influences and nature as well, and though these concepts might seem deep, the practice of astrology itself is actually quite practical.
In today's interview, Anne Nordhaus-Bike talks to us about how each astrological sign under which we were born is attributed to a different element and season-much like the doshas in Ayurveda or elements of TCM. Different elements and seasons have different characteristics, as do skin conditions, and other ailments, and each element or season also has a balancing or pacifying counterpart. It also has a season or element that makes matter worse if imbalance exists. So in this way, astrology really can be interpreted as the mind-body-spirit healing system of Western Philosophy--which for many Westerners, might be more accessible and practical than TCM or Ayurveda.
About Anne:
Anne Nordhaus-Bike March 2016 eventAnne Nordhaus-Bike is an award-winning artist, astrologer, and journalist. She also has decades of corporate communication experience with clients including many Fortune 500 firms. She founded her own firm, ANB Communications, in 1993. Today, she blends her business savvy and spiritual smarts to provide a holistic, innovative approach in delivering communication and team building solutions for executives, business owners, and entrepreneurs. She is a frequent guest on WGN Radio in Chicago and serves on the board of the Gazette Chicago newspaper. She also served on the board for Democratic Leadership For The 21st Century- Chicago (DL21C) as recruitment chair and on the communications committee. The recipient of numerous communication awards throughout her career, she was honored by the National Women's Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls, NY, which added her to its "Wall Of Fame."
Learn more from Anne:
Get your astrological chart, and check out her art on her website, free Astrology and Art Toolkit, and newsletter www.annenordhausbike.com.
I'd love to hear from you--is astrology part of your life?
How do you work with it now? What was your biggest takeaway from my interview with Anne? Please share in the comments at www.holisticallyhaute.com/astrology-for-clearer-skin/
People living with skin conditions like acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and others today are very lucky. I know that sounds crazy! I don't mean that they're lucky to have a skin condition--what I do mean is that they're lucky to live in a day and age where so many skin health approaches and solutions are available and accessible. I wasn't that lucky--I had to figure out how to heal the acne that plagued most of my life on my own, and it wasn't until I learned about holistic skincare and began practicing Nutritional Aesthetics® that I had my own resolution. I certainly wish I knew about naturopathic skincare in my younger days, since conventional dermatology did not provide me with solutions for long-term skin health. Read more and leave a comment here: www.holisticallyhaute.com/ naturopathic-skincare-spa-dr-trevor-cates/
Naturopathic skincare has a different approach.
Dermatologists prescribed me both topical and oral steroids and antibiotics (which destroyed my gut and didn't even work that well on the surface), Retin-A (which made my skin dry, tight, and peel), and a whole slew of topical products and treatments that were designed to scrub, burn, or bleach away the acne, pigmentation, and scarring that was on the surface of my skin. None of it worked, and ultimately I feel these drugs were largely responsible for health problems I developed down the line which took nearly 5 years to overcome. The gentler, more holistic approach of naturopathic skincare and medicine which encompass prevention
Of the many different holistic and integrative modalities I've researched, studied, and written about, naturopathic medicine has been my favorite. While I don't live in a state that currently licenses naturopathic physicians as primary care doctors, I am fortunate that my own work has led me to meet and collaborate with many, like Dr. Trevor Cates, ND. It is my hope that continuing to spread awareness of the holistic and integrative field of medical practice that is naturopathic medicine--and of course naturopathic skincare--might help make it available in every state in the US.
In our interview, Dr. Cates discusses the naturopathic skincare approach versus the conventional dermatological approach, common food triggers, the impact of inflammation on the skin and its possible causes, the 3 keys natural skincare products must have to be effective, and more.
About Dr. Trevor Cates:
Dr. Trevor Cates was the first woman licensed as a naturopathic doctor in the state of California and was appointed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to California's Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine Advisory Council. After working in several world-renowned spas, Dr. Cates became known as “The Spa Dr.” She sees patients in her private practice in Park City, Utah with a focus on graceful aging and glowing skin. She is also host of THE SPA DR. Podcast and the online Glowing Skin Summit. She is the author of Glowing Skin From Within ebook (#1 Amazon bestseller). She believes the key to healthy skin is inner and outer nourishment. Dr. Cates’ new skin care products, The Spa Dr.’s Daily Essentials, are available now at www.TheSpaDr.com. The Spa Dr. products are formulated with all-natural ingredients proven by science to give you clear, glowing skin at any age.
Take The Spa Dr's Skin Quiz HERE: http://theskinquiz.com
Get your free cheat sheet: The 5 Best and Worst Foods for Your Skin http://thespadr.com/foods-to-eat-cheat-sheet/
Download the podcast of this interview on iTunes HERE: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/holistically-haute-rachael/id1077478338?mt=2
Share your thoughts-2What part of Dr. Cates' naturopathic skincare approach made the most sense to you?
Please share in the comments at www.holisticallyhaute.com/ naturopathic-skincare-spa-dr-trevor-cates/
It's no secret that I'm not a fan of invasive cosmetic procedures like injectables and plastic surgery--I've written several articles about some of the dangers of these procedures and have offered natural alternatives to Botox® and lasers like cosmetic acupuncture and LED light therapy. It's my belief that invasive procedures should be undergone with great care and consideration--if at all--and should be considered the last effort, not the first when seeking smoother, firmer skin. I'm not gonna lie--normally plastic surgeons and I don't have much to talk about, as our philosophies are usually quite opposite. However when I found out that a well known, board certified plastic surgeon--one who's talked about plastic surgery on TV shows like Dr. Oz, The Doctors, and The Rachael Ray show--wrote a book on how to avoid plastic surgery, my interest was certainly piqued!Dr. Anthony Youn wrote a book about how to avoid plastic surgery with diet, lifestyle, and other holistic methods.I wouldn't have been surprised at all if the book had been written by a naturopathic doctor, or even an integrative dermatologist (yes they do exist!)--but a plastic surgeon? That surprised me. When I first spoke with Dr. Youn, I found that we actually share many common core beliefs surrounding skin health. We both believe that healthy skin comes from within with a balanced diet consisting of nutrient-dense, fresh, whole foods--and not from processed food diets filled with unhealthy fats and sugar. We both believe that certain lifestyle habits harm the skin, while others help the skin. And we both believe in the power of topical skincare and clever makeup application to help skin look its very best. And finally, we both do what we do, truly, to help people feel better about themselves even though we go about it in vastly different ways in our respective practices.Not only does Dr. Youn teach people how to avoid surgery, but he also advocates self-love.I see a lot of people with low self-image who have a really tough time loving themselves in my practice. Many people believe that having clear, beautiful skin, will magically make their lives perfect and then they will finally be happy. Just like I tell my clients that happiness and self-love don't come in a bottle of moisturizer (although my moisturizer is pretty darn fabulous), Dr. Youn strongly believes that plastic surgery won't make someone happier either. In fact, he actually turns some people away if he feels they are only seeking surgery for that reason, or if he feels that they don't actually need the surgery. I found his approach very refreshing.About Dr. Anthony Youn:Dr. Anthony Youn is the rare plastic surgeon who does everything he can to keep his patients out of the operating room. He's spent the past 16 years researching the secrets of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, makeup artists, and dietitians--and he knows what works, what doesn't, and what's overpriced. Now he's compiled solutions to every cosmetic aging problem in his new book, The Age Fix: A Leading Plastic Surgeon Reveals How to Really Look 10 Years Younger (written with Eve Anderson). The Age Fix is an insider's guide to looking younger without having surgery, and includes the Age Fix Diet, the Age Fix skincare routine, and solutions to virtually aging and beauty problem you can think of.If you purchase The Age Fix by April 11, 2016, you'll receive up to 9 bonus gifts! Click HERE.I'd love to know...What was your favorite part of my interview with Dr. Youn? Tell me in the comments HERE. Download this podcast on iTunes and watch the video HERE--and remember to subscribe while you're there!
Two of the most common misconceptions about meditation and visualization are that:1. You have to do it for a really long time for it to be effective 2. You have to be "that" kind of person--super zen, outwardly spiritual, surrounded by gemstones and crystals
While it's certainly beneficial to spend hours meditating or have a sacred space full of spiritual accoutrements, it's definitely not mandatory--and you don't need to be a certain way or not. Whoever you are, whatever you believe, you can benefit from even small doses of meditation and visualization, and often guided meditation and visualization exercise are a great way to add these practices to your life simply.Today's offering is a guided meditation to help you ground and connect.It's brief--less than 6 minutes--and is designed for anyone at any spiritual level or belief system. This is a meditation I often share with my clients, anytime they're going through stressful times--especially for my busy moms or CEOs (who actually have a LOT in common!). During stressful times, it's easy to feel "all over the place" or chaotic. When you're working on something for someone else, whether it's caring for children or tending to tasks and projects (or both!), it's common to also feel unsupported and disconnected from who you really are and what your needs are personally.I also recommend this meditation for my clients who are at the beginning stages of healing from a skin condition, and also for those who may have healed their physical condition but still experience the emotional and spiritual remnants. There's a lot of fear, uncertainty, and insecurity associated with having a skin condition, and those same feelings of disconnect, lack of support, and chaos are common.Enjoy this grounding, connecting, guided meditation here:If you'd like to own this guided meditation, you can download it FREE on iTunes--remember to subscribe while you're there!I'd love to know, did you find this brief guided meditation helpful?Please share here in the comments, or come over to the private Spiritual Skincare Sundays group on Facebook and join our discussion there. May you always have the peace that comes with feeling grounded and supported.So it is.
Women have the blessing, and sometimes the curse, of being governed by our monthly cycles for a large portion of our lives. What’s that, you ask? Blessing? Most women consider “Aunt Flow” a curse rather than a blessing. But like our skin and other organs and systems of the body, our monthly cycles can serve as a messenger that lets us know if something’s amiss within.Many women experience uncomfortable symptoms during their periods—cramps, bloating, fatigue, acne, migraines, mood swings—but did you know that those symptoms aren’t actually the norm? It’s true. Typical PMS or other uncomfortable period symptoms—or very irregular periods—are often the result of something else going on in the body. Food intolerances, hormone imbalances, malabsorption, micro-or macronutrient deficiencies can all affect your cycle, causing these typical symptoms. But there’s good news too—and that’s that it doesn’t have to be this way.How do you know your cycle is normal—or not?Hormone expert Bridgit Danner, L.Ac, FDNP joins us today, to shed light on what a ‘normal’ monthly cycle should look like, what it could mean if your cycle doesn’t meet those criteria, and she also gives great advice on what you can do to get things back on track.About Bridgit Danner:
Bridgit Danner runs an online women’s health community called Women’s WellnessCollaborative. Through this community, she interviews experts in women's health through blogs, videos, podcasts and online summits, including Hormones: A Women's Wellness Summit. She's an experienced practitioner of Chinese Medicine with nearly 12 years and over 12,000 treatments of experience. She's also a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition practitioner. She has worked extensively in the fertility field, and has worked with many professional women in helping them find health within their busy lives.Bridgit became passionate about women’s health after her own postpartum health crisis. Withthe help of life coaching, holistic nutrition, functional medicine and whole food cooking, she was able to recover from postpartum depression, epstein barr virus and adrenal dysregulation. She loves to share the tools and skills she’s learned, along with the tools of other experts, to help women everywhere find the energy and balance they crave.
Connect with Bridgit and take her free Hidden Hormone Stressors quiz at www.bridgitdanner.com.Remember Bridgit and I mentioned her amazing free program, Hormones: A Women’s Wellness Summit?
Bridgit created Hormones: A Women’s Wellness Summit because, well, just being a woman is difficult–career demands, dating and relationships, taking care of our families–and our hormones don’t always cooperate! The event is free and online for April 11-18, 2016, and features 35 experts such as myself, Dr. Keesha Ewers, Dr. Jolene Brighten, Dr. Kellyann Petrucci, Nicole Jardim, and many more. My talk is on Day 2 :) We'll cover popular topics for women such as PMS, PCOS, acne, Hashimoto's, fertility, perimenopause and more. Solutions will be offered from the worlds of functional medicine, Ayurveda, Chinese medicine and nutrition. Click here to get free access to all this great info, starting April 11.I’d love to know…What did you find most helpful from Bridgit’s interview? Please share in the comments at http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/03/know-your-cycle.html
I'm not gonna lie. I love probiotics and recommend them for almost every client I work with at some point in our work together. Skin health and a gut health are so closely related, and I know for me personally, I had a lot of issues with candida overgrowth and gut dysbiosis (when the 'bad' bacteria and microflora overtake the 'good'), which probiotics really helped to remedy. But was the gut dysbiosis and candida overgrowth the cause of my seemingly never-ending acne, or was it another symptom of a different cause?It's hard to tell, in my case specifically, but it is true that while many consider candida overgrowth and gut dysbiosis the cause of skin issues and other health conditions, these too have their own root causes. WHY is the balance of good/bad bacteria and microflora out of whack? WHY has the candida been allowed to take over? What happened FIRST for those two other events to be possible?Are probiotics a cure or just another band-aid fix?Today I share with you an interview with Dr Anh Nguyen, PharmD, BCACP, a board-certified pharmacist, certified health coach, avid foodie, and functional medicine practitioner who finds and fixes the root cause of chronic conditions, specializing in gut health. I wanted the scoop about why the link between skin health and gut health is so significant (because if you think about, it's not really a connection you'd hear of and just 'get it' right away!), and of course the conversation quickly moved to the topic of probiotics.What Dr. Anh explained, which I thought was really fascinating, is that probiotics alone can't be everyone's solution. Re-populating the gut with beneficial microbes might help make people more regular or reduce common discomfort and even visible skin conditions for a time, but if the cause of the imbalance isn't identified and addressed, the problems will return if the person discontinues the probiotic.The mentality of "I'm fine with x food as long as I have my probiotic" is in fact, an allopathic mentality--not necessarily a holistic or functional one. It's the same as people who eat lots of spicy foods and then follow them with antacids, or who overindulge in junk food and then spend hours at the gym to 'undo' the damage.Does Dr. Anh recommend that people DON'T take probiotics?Well, in some cases, yes! Which might be shocking, since so many health professionals tout probiotics as a panacea (another allopathic thought process). There are some health conditions where the introduction of probiotics at the wrong time--while the allergen or irritant (the cause) is still present--can do more harm than good. There are also some chronic conditions that exist where a certain amount of healing has to be done before introducing a probiotic is safe or effective. I found this really fascinating.Dr. Anh also talks a lot about another cause of health issues facing Americans today--the source of our food-particularly how soil quality affects our health. This is something I learned a lot about whilst teaching at the Rodale Institute, and I'm really glad Dr. Anh brought it up because it's a topic that often gets ignored.Near the end of the interview, I decided to call out the white elephant in the room, and address how while functional and integrative medicine offers amazing benefits to people--many practitioners and preventative tests are very expensive and aren't covered by insurance. Dr. Anh and I discuss what people can do about that in the interview too.Here's how to learn more from Dr. Anh:* Go to www.dranh.com to get “The Clean Eating Rules: How to Eat to Lose Weight, Improve Your Biometrics, and Get More Energy” * Listen to Dr. Anh's #1-ranked iTunes podcast, Food as Medicine podcast at www.DrAnh.com/iTunes * Book a consultation with Dr. Anh at www.DrAnh.com/work to get help with optimizing your nutrition, addressing food sensitivities, and healing your gut.
Do you take probiotics?What's been your experience? Have they helped you? What do you think about what Dr. Anh said on the subject? Please leave a comment and share your thoughts! By the way, the Holistically Haute with Rachael Pontillo podcast is now on iTunes! Click HERE to download episodes and subscribe.
As a mom myself and a holistic health practitioner who works with moms, it always amazes me how much attention goes into planning nowadays. Don't get me wrong, I certainly did a good amount of planning more than a decade ago, with my first child. I didn't know even a fraction of what I know today about health and wellness back then, but I did have the mindset to "pre-heat the oven" by taking prenatal vitamins, and dropping some bad lifestyle habits prior to conception. Once pregnant, I loved the planning that went into the pregnancy itself, the birth; and of course I loved the shopping. And while my childbirth educators and pregnancy forums had some mild discussion about adjusting to life after baby, what I learned once she was born was that THAT was the time I should have focused the majority of my planning on. The time that's hardest to plan of all, since it's nothing a new mom can even fathom until she experiences it herself. The Fourth Trimester.The Fourth Trimester was the hardest thing I ever experienced.I felt very prepared going into both my pregnancies and the actual birth itself, but I have to admit it that what I experienced after the fact made me feel the least prepared I'd ever felt about anything in my entire life. Sure, I was taught to expect a crying baby, feeling sore, sleep deprivation, and all that stuff--but all that is the tiniest tip of the very large iceberg that is the Fourth Trimester. It was the hardest physical and emotional time of my life, and not just the first time. The second time around I got all cocky during my pregnancy. I felt like an old pro. Toddler and newborn? No biggie. I was wrong. Though certain aspects of my second Fourth Trimester were familiar, other issues appeared that I'd never experienced before like weight gain, hypothyroidism, and even postpartum depression.At first I was really upset because I thought I was the only one who experienced this, but the more moms and grandmothers I talked to, the more I learned that I was not alone in feeling this way. Many, many moms of all ages have gone through their own version of the Fourth Trimester.Why is the Fourth Trimester such a surprise?Because it's not planned to the most minute detail the way conception (for many), the first three trimesters, and the actual birth itself are. It's not talked about enough among women anymore, and I don't know why that is. Maybe women are afraid of admitting that they're not supermom, like we're all expected to be these days. Maybe they're afraid they ARE the only person feeling that way since all the other moms at the baby gym and music classes seem to have.it.together.all.the.time. In my own case, when I asked my mother why she didn't tell me about her own Fourth Trimester experiences (though she had no problem sharing every detail about her births), she told me she didn't want to scare me. So many women enter into pregnancy without knowing anything at all about the fact that the Fourth Trimester isn't just about new life--it's also about death. Death of the old self to make room for the birth of the new self that is Mother. The death of the Maiden and the birth of the Mother. And it's hard. And scary. And it's not talked about enough.That changes now.
My friend, the wonderful Dr. Jolene Brighten, wrote a wonderful book to help women plan for the Fourth Trimester. It's called Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth: the New Mom's Guide to Navigating the Fourth Trimester, and it's something every mom-to-be--whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned pro--should read BEFORE that baby comes out. I'm very grateful that Dr. Brighten took time to talk about her book, and the Fourth Trimester itself in a very candid interview with yours truly.
During the interview we certainly address the skin issues that happen during pregnancy and often last into and beyond the Fourth Trimester such as acne, melasma, and of course stretch marks. But I'm not gonna lie--this interview is full of the truth about the Fourth Trimester. It's not sugar coated, and at times it might get a little gritty. If you've never had a Fourth Trimester, you might even find it a little scary. Listen anyway, and please share it with anyone you know who's thinking about being a mom, who is a new mom, or who is a Fourth Trimester survivor--because sometimes that experience still needs TLC years later.Of course we talk about fun stuff too like sugar scrubs and naming your skin a fun crayon color. Watch, listen, and enjoy (and subscribe too!).
About Dr. Jolene Brighten:
Dr. Jolene Brighten earned her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the National College of Natural Medicine. She received her BS in Nutrition Science and completed graduate coursework in molecular nutrition at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She has extensive training in Integrative Women’s Health and autoimmune disease management and is a practicing Holistic Pelvic Care(TM) provider. Having developed Hashimoto’s following the birth of her son, Dr. Brighten is a strong advocate for the Hashimoto’s community, with special emphasis in fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum thyroiditis. She is the author of the book, Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth: The New Mom’s Guide to Navigating the Fourth Trimester, and is launching a new program aimed to support fertility and healthy pregnancies for the Hashimoto’s community. She is a regular contributor to several publications and websites and lectures on the subject of postpartum care, autoimmunity, and women’s health to both healthcare providers and the public.Connect with Dr. Brighten:Website: www.drbrighten.com Book: http://healingafterchildbirth.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbrighten Twitter: https://twitter.com/drbrighten Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten/I want to hear from you.What was your Fourth Trimester like? How did you cope? What advice can you give to expectant moms about to experience this type of "gang initiation?" Please share in the comments at http://www.holisticallyhaute.com/2016/02/fourth-trimester-skincare-and-self-care-an-interview-with-dr-jolene-brighten.html
Though acupuncture and other holistic modalities have been established as firstline healthcare practices with success for thousands (literally thousands) of years, people often have misconceptions about acupuncture that prevent them from trying it. Concerns like "it hurts," or "it's only for chronic pain," or "I'd have to commit to going all the time," or "I'd have to have tons of needles stuck in me for long periods of time," are common misconceptions. There are also blanket statements like "acupuncture is safe and appropriate for everyone regardless of age or condition," which though seemingly positive, still present misconceptions about acupuncture. Are any of these common misconceptions about acupuncture true? In Part 1 of my interview with Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and nationally board certified acupuncturist, Sarica Cernohous, we discussed some of the misconceptions and safety concerns associated with the practice of microneedling and facial acupuncture. In Part 2, we go deeper to discuss how and why it works, and Sarica also shares the truth regarding some of the most common misconceptions about acupuncture. Read Part 2 of the accompanying blog post of my interview with Sarica Cernohous HERE. We also discuss when acupuncture isn't the best treatment for someone, and how that person should be treated instead; in addition to work with children and the importance of a proper homecare regimen. Sara provides so many gems of information in this interview. Sarica Cernohous, L.Ac., MSTOM, BSBA; a nationally-certified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Herbal Medicine, who practices Japanese-style acupuncture, including cosmetic acupuncture. Sarica is also an instructor on traditional food preparation methods, through her program, “Fresh, Fun and Flavorful in The Funky Kitchen“, and is the author of The Funky Kitchen: One Soccer Mom’s Favorite Traditional Food Techniques and Recipes. She is also a coach for Metabolic Balance of Germany, a chapter leader for the Weston A. Price Foundation and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. She resides in northern Arizona with her husband and two children.
Get Sarica’s free guide: 10 Excellent Things to Do for Yourself and Your Families’ Health! I want to hear from you! What's been your experience with acupuncture? Have you tried it? Have you wanted to but were worried because you've read some of the myths and misconceptions discussed in the video above? Click HERE to share your thoughts and experience on the blog. Want to take your first step towards better skin? Take my free quiz, and get customized action steps to help you have the skin--and life--you want! Click here!
Get the scoop on when microneedling and facial acupuncture are safe--and when they're not in part 1 of my interview with Sarica Cernohous.
Read more, watch the video, and leave a comment HERE.I first learned about the cosmetic benefits of facial acupuncture and first saw microneedling (also referred to as "derma-rolling) demonstrated live on stage at a trade show years ago. I was intrigued, but I'm not gonna lie--I had safety concerns. There are microneedling devices intended for home use and ones intended for professional or medical use only.Unfortunately though all of them are available everywhere, without proof of licensure or proper training on usage and safety.Once I realized that, anytime anyone asked me my thoughts on microneedling, I quickly responded that I don't think it's safe and that I don't recommend it for anyone.Imagine my surprise years later when I saw an acupuncturist use microneedling as part of a facial rejuvenating demonstration!I've always considered acupuncture to be a safe and effective mind-body-spirit healing modality. After all, it's part of the ancient tradition of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which dates back thousands of years and is still used successfully today. So when a highly regarded acupuncturist not only used a microneedling device on a model--but gave it to her to use at home--during a demonstrating at a holistic skincare event, I was again, concerned. I was less concerned this time though, because the acupuncturist gave the model a device that was .25mm and also instructed her how and when to use it.Today I bring you part one of my interview with the lovely and wonderful Sarica Cernohous, L.Ac., MSTOM, BSBA; a nationally-certified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Herbal Medicine, who practices Japanese-style acupuncture, including cosmetic acupuncture. Sarica is also an instructor on traditional food preparation methods, through her program, "Fresh, Fun and Flavorful in The Funky Kitchen", and is the author of The Funky Kitchen: One Soccer Mom's Favorite Traditional Food Techniques and Recipes. She is also a coach for Metabolic Balance of Germany, a chapter leader for the Weston A. Price Foundation and serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. She resides in northern Arizona with her husband and two children. So of course I had to ask Sarica her thoughts about the safety of microneedling and facial acupuncture. Some of what she said surprised me! Did you know that acupuncture itself isn't even safe for everyone? Listen or watch the video and get the scoop.Don't miss part 2 of my interview with Sarica!Be sure you get my email updates so I can let you know as soon as part 2 goes live. You'll also get my best holistic skincare advice and my own personal musings that I only share with my email community. Click here to sign up for updates
Understanding food triggers–foods that cause skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema–became a significant part of the work I do in my coaching practice, as well as in the Nutritional Aesthetics™ Alliance. I’m also always curious to know how practitioners who also support people with skin conditions with nutrition and lifestyle changes approach skin triggers, so I decided to ask my colleague, Orly Wachter, MSc, RD–also known as “The Skincare Dietitian,” for an interview from her perspective as a clinical nutritionist and dietitian.
Orly Wachter is a Skincare Dietitian and Healthy Living Strategist. Her mission is to help bright, driven women get glowing skin and killer confidence that allows them to show up as their best and brightest self. Like me, Orly believes that healthy skin starts from the inside and uses a personalized holistic approach that combines nutrition-based counseling, natural skincare solutions and self-care techniques.
In our interview, Orly shares great information about foods that cause acne, rosacea, and eczema. She talks in depth about the ones in the Skin Trigger Trifecta, as well as some outside the Trifecta that you’d never think would be skin triggers at all. She also talks extensively about elimination diets, and why she actually prefers them over food allergy/sensitivity testing for most clients, and gives tips for how to get the best results and have the best experience with an elimination diet.