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Mother's Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the wonderful women who have nurtured and supported us. This year, why not show your appreciation with a thoughtful gift from our health store? Here's a blog post exploring a variety of gift ideas that blend wellness, beauty, and relaxation, perfect for showing your mom how much she means to you.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Aromatherapy can bring a sense of calm and well-being into your mother's life. Consider gifting her a set of high-quality essential oils, such as lavender for relaxation, peppermint for energy, or eucalyptus for respiratory health. Complement the oils with a diffuser to create a serene ambiance at home:

With Mother’s Day coming up soon, we wanted to focus on what matters to mothers. Everyone hurries off to get Mom something special to spoil her with on Mother’s Day. This is a good time to show her how much you appreciate her.  Although, nothing tangible would ever be a big enough gift to show appreciation for a life offered up in service of others the way a mom does.

An interesting study on something that matters to mothers

We came across a study about factors that contributes to a mother’s well-being and it was a fascinating read! In essence the study shows that a mother’s well-being isn’t measured by self-care and material items.  It shows that it is primarily tied to her investment in her children.  Her role as parent is also important. Although, of much higher value was how well a mother feels that she is personally supported in her parenting.  So, in actual fact, how much Moms feel supported, how well they feel they are doing in raising their children is what gives them a sense of being well – that is, a feeling of being successful. You can read more on the study yourself.  But this made us think about what really matters to mothers.

We believe moms should also be taken care of and spoiled. 

So, Who takes care of Mom? You do.  Believe it or not. You do. 

It’s a well-designed system. As she gives her all to you, your responses is what takes care of her in return. Don’t believe us – read the study. So, now you know what she cares about and what matters most to her?  You do. Your safety and health and your well-being. It will do you good to remind her that - to you, she matters too.  Do remind her that her safety, health and well-being matters to you. That you appreciate her.

Consequently, there are many ways to remind your mom that she matters.  You can contribute to her well-being in so many ways. One way is to just respond to her kindly. Let her know of your own accord, that you’re thinking about her.  Remind her that you appreciate her. Words are often more than enough but it’s even better when she can see you for a coffee date to spend some time with you.  Then there’s the obvious hugs and kisses that no mom will say no to. 

Lastly there’s gifts which are often our go-to way to show mom love.  Why not incorporate one of the above ways to show your love with your gift and make it an extra special Mother’s Day this year.

Caring for her family naturally

What else matters to mothers? Something we know matters a great deal to many moms is caring for her family naturally.  This is where OilGrow’s natural essential oils offers an alternative to the plethora of side-effect ridden options out there.  We offer holistic solutions to taking care of everyday problems that may arise.  Remember that OilGrow is a proudly South African company, run by mothers. We know how important it is to address issues in a healthy way.  Something we found that worked well was to incorporate essential oils into our daily routines. Here’s a few ways how we accomplish it daily:

• Using essential oils in diffusers in and around the house.  OilGrow’s Focus blend works well in the diffuser in an office space to help you focus as you get work done. Use that same on in the afternoons where the children do homework. Our unique Calm blend in diffusers in all the rooms to help ensure that everyone falls asleep better than without it.  We find that if you use a blend such as Bliss, Bloom or Forest in the diffuser in the mornings, the wake-up routine is just a tad easier too. If you prefer pure single oils, then use something like Grapefruit for morning routines and Lavender for evening routines.

• Using massage oils when there is a need.  When someone had a tough day, using the Baby-zzz massage oil after a bath helps calm down those raging emotions. It eases them into winding down for the night. Or create your own massage oil if you wanted one for a different purpose.

• Adding essential oil to other products to enhance their effectiveness.  We found that using the Bug Shield blend in our current shampoo and conditioners helps to maintain healthy hair and it keeps those pesky head lice away even in the midst of breakouts at school. If you wanted to promote hair growth, add a few drops of our Forest blend alongside the Bug Shield. Why not?!

• We have a range of personal care products that works well for those that aren’t quite ready to create their own products.  We are proud to supply room and linen sprays, lip balm, hair serums for both men and women as well as some glycerine soaps for body and hair.

• Wearing the therapeutic scent close with diffuser jewelry is another way to use essential oils daily. Mom will be sure to love this one since you can spoil her with the fragrance she loves as well as jewellery! The scent stays close to her all day long. This brings the therapeutic aspects of the essential oils into practical daily use that cares not only for you her family but also for her.

Safety matters to her too

Safety is something that matters to mothers. Here’s a few tips on how to use essential oils safely.  Firstly, never apply essential oils directly from the bottle to the skin. Remember these are highly concentrated oils and can be a bit harsh for the skin if it is used neat often.  Always dilute your oils in a carrier oil such as Grapeseed before applying to the skin.

When you use EO’s in diffusers you can use between 3 to 6 drops as is straight from the bottle. Don’t mix in a carrier oil when you use it in a diffuser. Carrier oils are not volatile and won’t disperse into the air the way Essential oils do.

When you use OilGrow’s essential oils you’ll notice we say “do not ingest” on some blends. This means that these oils are never to be ingested.  Other blends says “do not ingest undiluted” which means you can ingest these safely – one drop to one cup of fluid.  Always emulsify the oil in an emulsifier such as milk or honey before adding it to your drink.  If you skip this part, the oil will merely sit on the sides of your cup and you won’t receive the full benefit of the oils taken internally.  Alternatively, just add 2 drops to a capsule. Then fill with Fractionated Coconut Oil, Avocado oil or Grapeseed oil and swallow with a glass of water.

Now that you know that you feed into your mother’s well-being as much as she feeds into yours, why not get her a thoughtful gift in our shop and make a special coffee and cake date with her?  If you know what matters to mothers, you can make sure yours know that she matters too. Get her into your space and help her see what great job she did in raising you.  It might just make her sleep a bit better tonight.

 

Skincare Products

Help your mom pamper herself with natural skincare products. Look for creams, serums, and masks infused with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or vitamin C. These can rejuvenate her skin, leaving it glowing and healthy, while also giving her a spa-like experience at home.

We are presented with so much choice in the beauty product category that it is often hard to know which products to choose.

With so many options, what should you chose?

We sometimes ask ourselves, our Moms, and our BFF’s:

• Which affordable skin care products in South Africa are the best?
  • Where can I find natural skin care products for sensitive skin?
  • What new anti aging products are available?

Local skin care brands are often overlooked, and yet there are some great products that contain unique African ingredients.

How do you really know which products are best? Today, we’re going to look at two Aloe Unique products that won awards at a “Best in Skin Care” competition.

South African “Best in Skin Care” Awards

South Africa’s popular Woman & Home magazine held their Beauty Awards in 2023 for the top beauty products.
Independent judges tested hundreds of products to find the best in various categories.
These are the two winning Aloe Unique products:

 

1. Best in Multi-Purpose Saviors – Best Soothing Gel

Aloe Unique Aloe Gel

 

The Woman & Home Judges found our product “ a high quality Aloe Gel” that is best for:

• Sunburn
  • Soothing bites and stings
  • Itchy skin conditions
  • Use after shaving
  • Sensitive skin

 

What makes our Aloe Gel best for soothing skin?

• Added Aloe Ferox– with 20 x more Aloin than Aloe Vera alone, a powerful anti-inflammatory and viral stimulant with healing properties
  • Cold-pressed– so there’s less heat to break down the natural plant botanicals
  • Extra vitamins and minerals – Aloe Ferox contains vitamins A, B2, B5, B6, C and E, Iron and Calcium

 

2. Best in Skincare Serums – Best Renewing Serum

Aloe Unique Renew Ampoules

What makes our Renew Ampoules one of the best face serums?

• Lipochroman® – a triple anti-oxidant that captures radicals and helps prevent cell damage, reduce wrinkles and brighten dark spots
  • A Retinol Serum– retinol is one of the best anti-aging ingredients, it stimulates the production of new skin cells and collagen

Continue Your Journey with Aloe Unique

Our Skin Care Sets have everything you need to care for your skin. It is like having a carefully crafted toolkit that addresses your skin’s specific needs and concerns.

Get all the essentials you need, plus the goodness of Aloe Ferox. Cleanse, nourish, and protect your skin for a healthy, glowing complexion.

With a skin care set that’s made in South Africa, using up-to-date technology, it’s easy to follow a tested skin care routine.

 

Nutritional Supplements

For a gift that supports her health, consider a selection of nutritional supplements tailored to her needs. Options include:

• Probiotics: To feed the good bacteria in moms microbiome!
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: To support heart and brain health.
• Collagen: To promote joint health and maintain youthful skin. Ensure you choose high-quality supplements, ideally backed by third-party testing, to provide peace of mind.

 

Natural Ways To Take Your Beauty Regime To The Next Level

Are you feeling like your beauty regime has fallen into a monotonous cycle, leaving you yearning for that radiant, refreshed appearance? We've all been there, stuck in a beauty rut where the same old products and habits no longer seem to do the trick. You're seeking something more, something that can genuinely transform the way your skin looks and feels, giving you that coveted, natural glow and an unmistakable spring in your step.

The good news is that you're not alone, and there are countless ways to reinvigorate your beauty regime. So, if you're ready to embrace a refreshed you, read on for the beauty tips and insights that will help you break free from your beauty rut and rediscover your radiant self.

Search: 2 results found for "naked" – onelifehealth

Add collagen to your beauty regime 

In addition to your topical skincare products, which can only penetrate the skin to a point, adding a collagen supplement like Beauty Gen Naked Collagen Plus  with additional vitamin C to aid absorption, plus Lactospore® Probiotics to your beauty regime is one powerful way to support your beauty regime. Collagen is a protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and appearance of your skin, hair, and nails. Adding collagen to your beauty regime offers several benefits:

1 Better skin
Collagen helps maintain skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness. However, as you age, your natural collagen production decreases, leading to the development of wrinkles and fine lines, plus a level of dryness in your skin that you can't quite get rid of. But by adding collagen to your beauty regime in the form of an ingestible powder, you'll be actively working towards reducing the signs of ageing and improving your overall skin texture. 
2 Stronger hair and nails
Collagen provides essential amino acids and proteins that support hair and nail health, resulting in stronger, shinier hair and more resilient nails, whilst reducing issues like brittleness and breakage.
3 Enhanced wound healing
Collagen is essential for tissue repair in the deeper dermal layers of the skin. Also, when used topically, collagen-based skincare products can promote the healing of scars, blemishes, and other skin imperfections.
4 Reduces cellulite and stretch marks
Some people specifically use collagen supplements to address common skin concerns such as cellulite and stretch marks. While results vary, collagen may help improve the appearance of these skin issues by promoting skin elasticity and hydration.
5 Joint and bone health
Although not directly related to beauty, collagen is a critical component of joint and bone health. Taking good quality collagen supplements or bone broth can support joint mobility, reduce joint pain, and contribute to overall well-being, which indirectly can improve your physical appearance and comfort.

 

Here are a handful of other natural things you can do in your daily routine to keep yourself looking radiant:

Upgrade your pillowcase

Instead of coarser fabrics, opt for a soft, silky – even real silk –pillowcase. This will decrease the friction and skin compression that leaves us with those unwanted sleep lines every morning.

If you sleep on your side, try switching sides regularly; better yet – sleep on your back wherever possible. Don’t lose sleep over sleep positions though, because quality sleep equals beauty sleep.

Dry brush your skin

This includes using long, sweeping strokes over the entire body – particularly legs and thighs – with a natural bristle brush. Dry brushing has an impressive array of health benefits when practiced habitually. It helps shed dead skin cells, improves skin texture (yes, that means cellulite) and promotes cell renewal. It also increases circulation to your skin, and powerfully supports the lymphatic drainage of the entire body.

Start rebounding

This fun and effective form of exercising not only burns more calories than traditional cardio like running and cycling, but it boosts circulation, improves lymphatic drainage, lubricates joints with no impact, combats cellulite, and tautens skin too.

Water, water, water!

It’s a cliché for a reason. Drinking enough water is essential for overall good health, helping with every process in the body, from digestion and circulation to absorption and even excretion. Skin cells – like every other cell in the body – are made up of water, so plenty of quality fluids are essential for glowing skin too. Think filtered water, water with fresh lemon, homemade iced teas and coconut water. High quality hydration belongs at the top of your daily to-do list.

READ MORE: Find out why water is the one habit your skin really benefits from

Avoid added sugar

This is another one we hear regularly, with good reason. Sugar is the biggest contributor to inflammation in the body, and this shows up on the skin as acne, wrinkles and dry, itchy patches. Avoid processed foods with sugar high up on the ingredients list, and skip adding sugar to food and drinks.

ALSO SEE: How inflammation affects the skin and what you can do about it

Meet your micronutrient needs

Your delicious daily dose of 50 organic superfoods and 1 billion CFU probiotics is here. This delicious Blueberry flavoured powder provides 10 grams of plant protein and 500 mg of buffered vitamin C at just 77 calories a serving. An all-in-one superfood formula of fruits, vegetables, probiotics and greens, this blend offers a broad supply of micronutrients and overall health benefits free from artificial or processed ingredients. Say hello to convenient, tasty and affordable superfoods – plus a healthier you – with every sip.

(Ps – we have other flavours!)

Search: 32 results found for "superfood drink" – onelifehealth

Try a tea toner

Thanks to their antioxidant content, white and green teas have anti-inflammatory, brightening, evening, cleansing and hydrating properties when applied topically to the skin.

Steep your chosen teabag for 5 minutes, then allow to cool. Apply to your face with cotton pads, or pour it into a spray bottle and spritz onto clean skin.

Use tea tree oil daily

It's a well-known fact that tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but you may not know that it can help reduce mild to moderate acne breakouts, unclog pores and gently detoxify the skin. Pure tea tree oil (in extract form) is pretty potent so simply add 1-2 drops to your cleanser or toner for best results. 

Search: 253 results found for "tea tree" – onelifehealth

 

Healthy Snacks and Teas

Satisfy your mom's taste buds with nutritious treats. You can create a gift basket filled with healthy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or dark chocolate. Additionally, include a variety of herbal teas, such as chamomile for relaxation, ginger for digestive health, or green tea for antioxidants. Include some gluten free, dairy free & sugar free snacks!

Please see our food pantry category.

Food Pantry – onelifehealth

 

Fitness Equipment & Supplements

Encourage your mom to stay active with home fitness equipment. Options include:

• Yoga Mats: For a comfortable space to practice yoga or stretching exercises.
• Resistance Bands: For strength training and flexibility workouts.
• Dumbbells: For toning exercises at home. Such gifts not only support her physical health but also promote a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

And you can add some sport supplements – like a fat burner or whey protein to assist in your mom’s fitness journey.

Sport - Weight loss – onelifehealth

 

 

Spa and Wellness Vouchers

Give the gift of relaxation with a massage or wellness voucher for local spas or we health shops. This is a wonderful way to help your mom unwind and de-stress, whether through a massage, facial, or holistic therapy session.

If you would like to give your mom a voucher from our health shop please give us a call or send us a WhatsApp – 071 374 4910.

 

Homeopathic options

Harnessing Homeopathy for Emotional Well-being in Motherhood

Motherhood, while often joyful and fulfilling, can also introduce a range of emotional challenges for many women. The transition to becoming a mother, whether for the first time or with additional children, involves significant physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes. These adjustments can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety as mothers cope with the demands of a newborn's care, changes in personal identity, and the pressure to meet societal expectations of motherhood.

Stress may manifest as overwhelming feelings or struggles with time and personal care management. Anxiety could appear as ongoing concerns about the child's health, self-doubt about parenting skills, or worries about juggling family and work.

More seriously, some mothers may suffer from postpartum depression (PPD), an intense emotional turmoil post-childbirth marked by sadness, fatigue, altered sleep and eating patterns, decreased libido, crying spells, anxiety, and irritability. Unlike the brief "baby blues," PPD is persistent and can significantly impact a mother’s ability to care for herself and her family. Addressing these emotional challenges is essential for the mother's health, the child's development, and family stability.

Natural healthcare, like homeopathy, can be an invaluable support during these stressful times. Homeopathy, a gentle and effective form of complementary medicine, targets the specific symptoms and underlying causes of an individual’s condition. It considers the unique experiences of each mother, addressing stress and anxiety that may stem from hectic lifestyles, hormonal shifts, or PPD, by restoring balance on physical, mental, and emotional levels. This approach is not one-size-fits-all.

There are many homeopathic remedies available to help mothers with stress, anxiety, insomnia, and vitality. For best results, these remedies should be used as recommended in terms of dosage and frequency. If symptoms persist, consulting with professional homeopaths is advised. Homeopathic remedies are particularly favoured for their minimal interactions with other medications, including pharmaceuticals and herbal treatments.

Homeopathic remedies available at One Life Health to assist with stress, anxiety, insomnia and vitality:

• Stress and Anxiety- Natura Rescue and Nervuton ranges (tablets, drops and spray) and Pegasus Calming Pillules.
• Insomnia- Pegasus Sleep pillules and Boiron Sedatif tabelts.
• Vitality and Female Tonic- Natura Alfalfa tonic and Landi F.

If a natural approach to your overall physical and mental wellbeing is what you are looking for, the gentle approach of Homeopathy will be a great addition to you healthcare routine. Homeopathy can be considered for a wide range if conditions in adults, children and the elderly to assist in living a healthy and balanced life.

 

Search: 15 results found for "rescue" – onelifehealth

Search: 8 results found for "BOIRON" – onelifehealth

Search: 1940 results found for "natura" – onelifehealth

 

Menopause?
Managing Menopause Naturally with Sage and Maca

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman's life, characterized by the end of menstrual cycles and changes in hormone levels. This period can bring various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and decreased bone density. While hormone replacement therapy is a common approach, many women seek natural alternatives to manage these symptoms. Among the various natural remedies, sage and maca have gained attention for their potential benefits during menopause.

Sage: Cooling and Calming

Sage (Salvia officinalis) has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for its benefits in women's health. It is well-known for its natural phytoestrogenic properties, which can help to somewhat balance hormone levels in the body. Research suggests that sage may be particularly effective in reducing hot flashes and night sweats, which are among the most common and uncomfortable symptoms of menopause.

• Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: A study published in "Advances in Therapy" found that daily supplementation with sage significantly decreased the frequency and intensity of hot flashes over eight weeks. Participants reported a reduction in severity and disruption of daily activities, indicating sage's potential as a supportive therapy for menopausal symptoms.
• Mood and Cognitive Function: Sage has also been noted for its positive effects on mood and cognitive functions, which can be particularly beneficial as hormonal changes during menopause can affect mental clarity and emotional stability.

Maca: Energizing and Hormone Balancing

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root native to the Peruvian Andes, known for its nutrient-dense profile and adaptogenic properties. It's particularly rich in minerals like calcium and potassium, vitamins, and essential amino acids that collectively support overall health. Maca is often recommended for menopausal women due to its ability to help stabilize hormone levels and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.

• Hormonal Support: Research suggests that maca acts as an adaptogen, helping to regulate and support hormonal balance without containing hormones itself. It can influence key hormones in the endocrine system, which govern the menstrual cycle and menopausal symptoms.
• Energy and Vitality: Maca is often touted for its energy-boosting properties. For women experiencing the fatigue often associated with menopause, maca can offer a natural enhancement in energy and stamina.
• Sexual Health: Menopause can also impact sexual health, and maca has been studied for its potential to boost libido and decrease sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women, as outlined in a study published in the journal "Menopause".

Both sage and maca offer promising natural alternatives for managing menopause symptoms, supporting not just physical but also mental health. By understanding and utilizing these natural remedies, menopausal women can potentially enhance their quality of life during this significant life phase.

 

VIVID HEALTH - WOMAN - Sage 60 Capsules – onelifehealth

SFERA BIO NUTRITION - Maca Extract 60 Capsules – onelifehealth

 

Conclusion

This Mother's Day, consider a thoughtful gift from our health store to show your mom how much she means to you. From aromatherapy to fitness equipment, these gifts blend wellness, beauty, and relaxation, helping her live her best life. Whether you're aiming for a luxurious, relaxing, or health-focused gift, these ideas offer a variety of options to suit your mother's needs.