Innehållsförteckning för Issue 3 från EcoBalance Lifestyle

Dear Readers 2020 certainly has proven to be a testing and trying year for most of us… A bump in our journey of life, with lows far outweighing the highs. It is through these lows that I found an inner strength in me to carry on as I took a step back to reassess what was really important. Covid-19 has not been kind. As a result of the prolonged lockdowns many are now fed up, ignoring restrictions and experiencing 'covid fatigue'. However, this disease knows no boundaries and we need to do our part to protect ourselves and everyone around us. We do need to wear masks, wash hands and social distance in order to get our lives back to some form of “normal”. As a reminder of the importance…

CF PRODUCTS are friendly to the skin and to nature with an extensive suncare range for you and your family. They are locally produced with an understanding of the harsh sun in which we are exposed to. The range consists of: CF MIST SPF25 - This is a refreshing setting mist that lets you reapply SPF over your makeup. Infused with antioxidant, this weightless spray locks in your morning makeup, controls natural oils, and evens complexion. CF KIDS SUNSCREEN SPF50, 100ML - This water-resistant formula is perfect for everyday use on face and body. It's fast-absorbing and lightweight, but with ultra-moisturising results. Made with natural plant extract. It is specifically designed and packed for the little ones. Triple action protection cream; no burning eyes, not greasy, great smell. Improves texture,…

Have you considered living in a tiny place? Do you think living off the grid will be easy, is it affordable and will it fill my needs? We have to look at things realistically and understand that there are some pitfalls if you have not done your homework correctly. Seeing and watching a TV show or a YouTube video may give the “nice, happy and traa-la-la emotions” and not the reality of the bare basics of this kind of living. In this article we chat to Carla da Cruz Almedia from POD-iDladla who sheds some light on tiny space living. EBL: HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE CONCEPT? CARLA: When I was on a trip to New Zealand I saw something that got me thinking about container living. I researched…

EcoTools - The Everyday Essentail Smokey Eye Kitis brush collection that is environmentally friendly, chic and high-quality. This kit includes 5 eye brushes, 3 beauty look cards and storage tray. Available from Clicks. Hey-Gorgeous - Pure Wild Volumising Mascaracoats lashes one layer at a time for full, clumpfree, water-resistant definition. This natural formula dries quickly without smearing, smudging, clumping, or flaking. An infusion of nourishing, protein-rich argan oil conditions and supports hair growth for lush, supple, healthy lashes. Kind to sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Not tested on animals, made with only the finest, organic ingredients. Available from www.hey-gorgeous.co.za Pretty By Flormar Ultimate Dip Liner enables an easy application at the roots of the eye lashes. While the perfect mix of special moisturisers and emollients adds a creamy texture…

get the look ECO-CONSCIOUS DRESSES THE REASON TO BUY FROM H&M The materials that H&Mhave used this season are Organic cotton, Tencel™, recycled polyester. The whole collection is made from at least 50% or more sustainably sourced such as organic cotton, Tencel™ or recycled polyester. 11 of the dresses are made of 100% sustainably sourced material, 9 in 100% organic cotton, 1 in 100% Tencel ™ and 1 in 100% recycled polyester. The other 6 styles are made from at least 50% sustainably sourced material and blended with material such as Polyester, Polyamide and Viscose. Recycled polyester is made from old PET bottles or similar. Their aim is to increase their use of recycled polyester every year. In 2016, they used recycled polyester the equivalent of more than 180 million…

EBL:Linda please share with our readers your background? LINDA: As a psychology student I realised that I cannot save the world or solve every client's problems completely, however the one thing that can change people's lives is the food one eats. This was the start of my mission to bring exciting vegetables to the South African consumer. Out of this arose the Franchi Sementi Seeds distribution rights for Sub-Saharan Africa and now my own brand of Linda's Original Seeds. The focus being on heirloom seed supply for organic growing, wonderful variety, deliciousness, and food security. Only now is the impact of proper eating on your entire health system being recognised. EBL: What is the difference between an heirloom seed verses a normal seed? LINDA: An heirloom seed is a seed…

Beaucience Moisturising Day Cream with SPF 15 This unique and amazing formulation is non-greasy and readily absorbs into the skin due to its olive oil derivative base. Added to this are broad spectrum UV filters that absorb, reflect and scatter harmful rays. Available from www.beaucience.co.za African Hemp Seed Hand and Nail Cream is perfect for all skin types as it can moisturise without clogging one’s pores. It high in antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins A, C and E which assist in giving your skin protection against signs of premature aging. Available from www.bodycarefromafrica.co.za and www.takealot.com African Rosehip Hand and Nail Cream African Rosehip oil has incredible regenerative properties and contains high levels of vitamin A and essential fatty acids which assist in treating scars, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and…

Each one of us are incredibly unique individuals, with our own characteristics, quirks and looks due to our hereditary history, individual circumstances and lifestyles. When it comes to our bodies and weight, especially in these current times where we are equipped with endless dietary studies, self-love techniques and body acceptance, it is no question that “skinny trends” are so last season, and being healthy, loving oneself and personal self-development are definitely what it is all about. This article is definitely not for weight loss, it is for weight balance and management for the individual, wherever you're at on the scale. Most diets have not proved to be successful or sustainable, many diet plans can leave you feeling hungry or unsatisfied especially if it's to lose weight. Extreme limitation diets can…

• Eat as much fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables as possible! These contain the highest amounts of vitamins and nutrients, packed with good sugars for brain energy.• Stay hydrated! Drink water and eat your water too. Fresh fruit and vegetables contain the highest percentage of H2O.• Clean, peel, chop and store your fruit and vegetables every week-ready to cook up for those on-the-go lifestyles.• Cook double! Collect/invest in some decent food containers, eat half and freeze the other half.• Eat foods that boost sun protection. Foods with high amounts of antioxidants e.g lycopene. Foods like tomatoes, watermelon, berries, green tea, broccoli, dark chocolate, foods high in vitamin C and Omega-3 fatty acids.• Be pro-active with your alcohol intake - make skinnier cocktails by sweetening with fruits instead of syrups and…

WHAT YOU NEED: • 5 cups of flour• 3 cups of sugar• 2 tsp of bicarbonate of soda• 2 tsp of cocoa powder, sifted• 2 tsp of salt• 2 cups of buttermilk• 4 eggs at room temperature• 2 cups of vegetable oil• 2 tsp of white vinegar• 2 tsp of vanilla essence• A generous squirt of red food colouring (it should be gel food colouring to get the rich colour) CREAM CHEESE ICING: • 250g of firm cream cheese• 250g of butter, softened• 3 cups of icing sugar, sifted• 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence HOW TO MAKE: This is definitely one of those recipes where you want to use a cake mixer – the quantities are large. Before you start, pre-heat oven to 180°C. 1. Combine eggs and sugar until…

Serves: 12 - 14 Time: 1 Hr 30 Mins + Cooling Time Level: Easy-ish WHAT YOU NEED: FOR THE GREEK YOGHURT ICING: • 2 cups plain cashew yoghurt (or yoghurt of your choice)• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract• 1 cup powdered sugar/sweetener/• 1 tbsp Stevia Glycerite• 2 tbsp coconut flour (if using Stevia) HOW TO MAKE: FOR THE YOGHURT ICING (PREPARE FIRST) 1. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a small bowl. Place the yogurt in the strainer. Wrap with plastic wrap and place in the fridge to drain for at least two hours (NB: Otherwise, the yogurt will be too liquid to make a proper icing) 2. Using an electric hand mixer on medium speed, beat the strained yogurt, the vanilla, and the sweetener (and coconut flour if using) for…

WHAT YOU NEED: •250ml condensed milk• 250g whipped cream• 50g baobab powder• 15g spirulina powder• 1 tbsp vanilla essence HOW TO MAKE: 1. In a bowl, mix the condensed milk and whipped cream until fully blended. 2. Add baobab powder, spirulina and vanilla essence to the cream. Fold the cream with a spatula until fully blended. 3. Refrigerate in a lunchbox for 4 hours. CHIA SEED PUDDING WHAT YOU NEED: •100g chia seeds• 20ml milk CHIA SEED PUDDING HOW TO MAKE: 1. Mix the chia seeds and milk in bowl. 2. Seal the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours. Enjoy!…

Serves 2 •Ready In 45 Minutes WHAT YOU NEED: •1 orange sweet potato, sliced into rounds• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste• Cajun spice or your own spice mix (½ tsp each of coriander, cumin and smoked sweet paprika)• olive oil for drizzling• ¼ cup quinoa• ¼ cup short-grain brown rice• 2 handfuls baby spinach• 1 avocado, sliced• soft goat's milk cheese or feta or sliced halloumi that's fried until golden WHAT TO DO: 1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC. 2. Season the sweet potato with salt, pepper and a cajun spice mix or your own spice mix. 3. Add a drizzle of olive oil and mix to ensure the sweet potato rounds are well coated. Place on a baking tray and roast until golden and tender, turning…

TRIPLE BERRY It’s easy, it’s fun, it’s health and it’s all-in-one. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, serve immediately and ENJOY!. RED VELVET It’s easy, it’s fun, it’s health and it’s all-in-one. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, serve immediately and ENJOY!. IMMUNITY BOOSTING It’s easy, it’s fun, it’s health and it’s all-in-one. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, serve immediately and ENJOY!. IMMUNITY BOOSTING It’s easy, it’s fun, it’s health and it’s all-in-one. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, serve immediately and ENJOY!. HYDRATOR & THIRST QUENCHER It’s easy, it’s fun, it’s health and it’s all-in-one. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, serve immediately and ENJOY!. Healthy Yellow Smoothie…

WHAT YOU NEED: Seed pod - 3 pods make for 1 bird / Glue / Scissors / Paint / Servette / Clear varnish / Stick 1 Cut pods at an angle. These will be used as the wings. 2 Glue wing upright onto an uncut pod for a natural look or for a more colourful bird you can paint or découpage it before you assemble it. (cut design from serviette for the découpage). 3 Glue small stem of pod onto stick.…

KiND for others, the planet and ourselves.KiND curate conscious lifestyle and clothing brands for little ones by promoting slow fashion. A concept where sustainable high quality children’s wear will be reused. KiND’s motto is buy less and choose better, a circular fashion concept where people invest in quality organic clothes that can be passed on from older siblings to younger ones. Beach & Bandits swimwear is protective of children’s delicate skin whilst out in the sun. Their styles are lightweight, breathable and quick drying without compromising on style. UPF 50 KiND KIDSWEAR Looks to the FUTURE! Be part of the KiND Pre-loved Movement here’s here. Once your child has out grown their much loved KiND clothing you can trade-in for other items. They will also take back garments and re-sell it…

YOU WILL NEED: • ½ cup cake flour• 3 tbsp sugar• 1 tbsp baking powder• Pinch Salt• 1 ¼ cup milk• 1 ¼ melted butter• 2 large eggs HOW TO MAKE: • Mix everything together in a mixing bowl. • Once all the lumps are gone, spoon batter onto a hot pan. • Wait for the bubbles to appear in the mixture before you flip your flapjack. SERVING SUGGESTION: Fruit, bacon & syrup, Nutella & banana, plain with cinnamon sugar with a dash of lemon juice or jam & cream.…

The term arose in the 1980s after American environmentalist Jay Westervelt noted how at a hotel he visited, there were signs asking guests to reuse their towels in order to “save the environment”. Westervelt considered the vast amount of wastage he had encountered throughout the rest of the hotel, where there were no obvious efforts being made towards sustainability. Instead, he concluded, the hotel was simply trying to reduce costs by not having to wash towels as much but were trying to market this as eco-friendly behaviour. Whilst this trend is concerning, greenwashing is not always entirely intentional or a malicious plot to deceive – more often than not, it is as a result of overenthusiasm and the need to impress a new generation of consumers. This is because being…

The Checkas Bin from Dokter And Misses is a simple steel stand holds a standard shopping bag is great for separating recycling or for as a smaller bin in bathrooms or offices. Available in a variety of colours. Available from www.dokterandmisses.com The Tube Roll and Tube Rail are bent-pipe bathroom accessories that are available in various powder coating finishes. Standard colour for the wall mounted bracket is Ice White. Available from www.dokterandmisses.com The Half Hotel Rail from Dokter And Missespacking and hanging storage, ideal for small spaces or guest rooms and the half size is perfect for an entrance hall. Available from www.dokterandmisses.com Frmat System from Dokter And Missesis a modular wall mounted system suitable for office, bedroom, lounge and kitchen applications. The system is highly customisable. Each module is secured…

Masks help keep saliva and any other droplets-emitted from breathing, talking, coughing, or sneezing - from getting into the air and potentially transmitting Covid-19 (or other illnesses), which is why they are so important. However, this also means that these 'life-saving' masks also trap heat and cause friction on the skin. This combined with moisture from breathing, talking, coughing and sneezing create the perfect environment for bacteria to breed resulting in pimples and general skin irritation. It can also cause the skin to become dry, itchy and raw. And since it looks like we're going to be wearing masks for a while, it is a good idea to learn how to manage mask acne. Dermatologists warn that while those who are acne prone may suffer more, adopting a good skin…

H&M makes quality sustainable fashion and they want their beautiful collections to be accessible to as many people as possible. They have a passion for fashion and the planet and how it affects the world around us. They believe that conscious fashion choices should be available and affordable to everyone – without ever compromising on style. By making conscious choices in each step of the garment's life – from cotton farms to customers, together a difference can be made. Currently up to 57% of the materials used to make their clothes is organic, recycled or made from more sustainable materials. H&M’s Goals • Constantly increase the percentage of sustainable materials used in their fabrics• Only use recycled and other sustainably sourced materials by 2030• All cotton to be sustainably sourced…

get the look ECO-CONSCIOUS SWIMWEAR THE STORY, THE STYLES THE FABRIC Summer Glen is ultra-soft, sustainable swimwear made from ocean plastic. Tegan Glen, is a Cape Town based photographer who created Summer Glen after struggling for many years to find the perfect fitting swimsuit (like many) and took it on herself to design a swim piece that would both look sexy and support women. After months of research and careful consideration to several women's swimwear concerns, the "Infinite" range was born. SUSTAINABILITY Fabric is made from Repreve fabric which is created from recycled plastic. All the tags are made from recycled paper. Ribbon is used to attach tags rather than plastic ones. All off-cuts have been made into scruntchies avoiding unnecessary waste during production. Online orders are couriered in mailer…

Compost is a natural process where micro and macro organisms break down organic matter and make it available as food for plants. Nature does this all the time; what do you think happens to the leaves in a forest after autumn? They go back to the soil and feed the tree in the spring (basically a natural food larder). Making your own compost is one of the easiest, fun and beneficial things you can do for your garden. First, why make compost? When you trash your garden and food waste you are throwing away nutrients. Your plants pulled key nutrients from the soil in order to grow. By dumping your organic waste you are, over time, reducing the health of your soil and thus your garden. It is also silly…

Our hands are crawling with germs including viruses and bacteria and are not meant to be sterile objects. In fact, having some bacteria on the skin is perfectly natural, and this ‘resident flora’, can actually be helpful. However, regardless of the 'good bacteria', handwashing is vital for the prevention and spread of diseases including the coronavirus. Traditionally hand hygiene involves washing with soap and water, however hand sanitisers have also become popular particularly during the current global COVID-19 pandemic. But just because your hands are clean does not mean they are germ free. Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities. It does not necessarily kill germs but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and therefore the risk of spreading infection. To clean one simply uses water…

It's that time of the year when everything seems to be moving a bit too fast, leaving you feeling frazzled and overwhelmed. Work, family and a wealth of daily commitments usually keeps life busy enough but, at year-end, every day becomes so chock-a-block with pressing things to do that your every waking moment feels as if it's diarised within an inch of its life. At times like this, when extra tasks are being added to your already tottering pile of commitments, it's easy to feel as if you're on a super-charged treadmill, racking up serious stress. While it may not be realistic to expect you to scale down on your responsibilities right now, try these seven ways to boost your wellbeing and calm your mind, so that you're better able…

• REDUCE FOOD CHOICES If you are hosting an event, prevent over-catering by reducing food choices. This doesn't mean your family and friends will leave your dinner hungry; its really about us humans not overfilling our plates (because isn't it good manners to have a taste of everything!). In general our eyes are always, like my Nana used to say, “too big for your stomach”. • BUY LESS MORE FREQUENTLY. Food can go off pretty quickly. And is also liable to hide itself behind a few jars of pickle at the back of the bottom shelf in your fridge. So plan your meals and buy according to the plan – don't buy for those “just maybe and in case and what if” imaginary cases. There's always a store open near…

Serves 6–8 Ready In 45 Minutes Vegan Option Gluten-free Option WHAT YOU NEED: DRY INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups stoneground cake flour or gluten-free cake flour• 1 cup coconut sugar• ½ cup cocoa powder• 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 level tsp salt WHIPPED CHOCOLATE GANACHE ICING: INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups roughly chopped dark chocolate (use vegan if necessary)• ½ cup coconut cream HOW TO MAKE: Preheat the oven to 170ºC. Grease a round 23cm springform cake tin (or make 2 x 20cm cakes to layer together). 1. For the cake, sieve all the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. 2. Add the wet ingredients and whisk until well combined. 3. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin/s, tap the tins gently on…

Serves 8-10 WHAT YOU NEED: STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM: •500g of strawberries• 1 and a half cups of sugar• One cup of water• 1 cup of heavy cream •Add a tub of vanilla or other flavoured ice cream of your choice. BASE: •1 packet of tennis biscuits, crushed (200g)• 125g of butter, melted HOW TO MAKE IT: BASE: 1. The easiest way to crush the biscuits is to empty them into a zip seal bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or another suitably heavy object. 2. Combine the biscuits with the melted butter in a mixing bowl. Press this mixture firmly into a greased spring form cake tin, with a diameter of approximately 23cm. Use the back of a metal spoon to smooth it down and then refrigerate…

WHAT YOU NEED: THE BROWNIES: •B-Well Baking Spray• ½ cup B-WELL Pure Canola oil• 1 tbsp B-WELL Thick & Creamy Mayo• 2 cups quinoa flour (or other plant based flours)• 3 ripe bananas, mashed/pureed• ½ cup cacao powder• 1 ½ cups almond milk (or other plant milk of choice)• 1 tsp baking powder• 2 tsp vanilla extract• ¼ tsp salt• 1 cup coconut nectar sugar CHIA PUDDING: (can double if prefer a looser, creamier trifle) •2 tbsp chia Seeds• 1 can coconut milk• 1 tbsp rose water CHOCOLATE MOUSSE: •2 ripe avocados• 4 tbsp cacao powder• 1 ripe banana• 3 tbsp honey/molasses• 1 tsp vanilla essence BERRY COMPOTE: •150g your favourite berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or a mix)• 50ml orange or berry juice.• 1 tsp cornflour/chia seeds• 1 star…

Serves: 4 People •Time: 25 Min WHAT YOU NEED: •B-well Extra Virgin Olive Oil (if using oven and for drizzling over salad)• 500g prawns, tiger prawns preferred, shelled, deveined and tails still on• bamboo skewers, soaked in water• 1 lemon, cut into wedges FOR THE MARINADE: •4 tbsp B-well Original Tangy Mayonnaise• 2 tbsp B-well Extra Virgin Olive Oil• ¼ cup fresh coriander, chopped (use ½, keep ½ for salad)• 3 garlic cloves, minced• ½ tsp garam masala• ¼ - ½ tsp chilli powder, as desired• 2 tbsp lemon juice• ¼ turmeric powder• ½ tsp salt, or to taste• fresh parsley, finely chopped (garnish)• sprinkle of black pepper HOW TO MAKE: • Mix all the ingredients of the marinade in a bowl. Stir to combine well. • Add the clean…

EBL: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. TESSA: I am Tessa O'Halloran, and currently live in Graaff-Reinet. I was born in Pietermaritzburg in KZN and have lived in Gaborone, Botswana as well as in Cape Town. I'm 23 years old, a small business and sustainability enthusiast, and the founder of plasticity. EBL: What made you start your business, was it a light bulb moment or did you see a gap in the market place? TESSA: I was curious to see if I could create useful things from the abundance of plastic waste I saw polluting the environment around me. It was an experiment to begin with, which led to simple handstitched products, and the intrigue around working with waste materials only grew. It was a lightbulb moment from our…

FUN FACT: Did you know that Loofah does not come from the sea. Get your seeds from www.myecosprout.com. WHAT YOU NEED: Loofah / A melt-and-pour glycerine soap / muffin baking tray / knife (make sure its sharp) dried lavender flowers and rosemary (I used from my garden). HOW TO MAKE: 1. Cut your loofah into 10mm thick pieces. 2 Place the cut pieces into the muffin baking tray. 3. Cut your glycerine soap into, place in a bowl and microwave for 1 minute, stir and repeat until completely melted. 4. Stir in dried lavender flowers and rosemary (I used from my garden). You can also add roses petals, or citrus rind. 5. Pour over loofah in mould, let it cool down for an hour. Enjoy and gift wrap with a…

Wood is made up of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and extracts (waxes, fatty acids, resin acids and sugars). The properties of these elements make them suitable ingredients in countless products, not just in paper, cardboard and tissue. As a sustainably farmed resource that stores carbon, wood is increasingly being used not only in the built environment for houses and high-rises, but also for its cellulose, lignin and sugars. These elements all have a role in helping the world find renewable and low-carbon alternatives to the likes of plastic, chemicals, steel and concrete. The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA), its members and its university partners are exploring the commercial potential of a range of products from the pulping and papermaking process, maximising product yield from each and every tree harvested.…

FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: NeoStrata® Defend Sheer Physical Protection SPF50 is an ultra-sheer, physical broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides protection from UV radiation and DNA damage. A sheer universal tint blends with the skin's natural tone providing an ultra-sheer mattifying finish. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: NeoStrata® Restore Daytime Protection Cream SPF23is a non-greasy, lightweight anti-ageing day cream with a sunscreen that reduces visible signs of ageing while maintaining the skin barrier function. It hydrates, smoothes and protects the skin. Formulated for dry sensitive, rosacea-prone skin types but it can also be used for normal combination skins. For more information visit www.neostrata.co.za ANTI-AGEING DEFENCE Unprotected sun exposure is bad news for the skin. It's the primary cause of premature ageing and can easily lead to…

1 FLUFFY LANGUAGE: Look out for words or terms that have no clear meaning or context such as "eco-friendly"; “sustainable” or “natural”. If these terms are used then check what they are used for – packaging, only one ingredient etc 2 GREEN PRODUCTS vs. DIRTY COMPANY: Whilst the product itself may be better for the environment, for example efficient light bulbs, what about the company manufacturing it – how sustainable is its operations? 3 SUGGESTIVE PICTURES: Images that give an (unjustified) impression of being good or kind to nature (e.g., flowers blooming from exhaust pipes). These are just meant to make you feel better but have no real value beyond being just a design element. 4 “BEST-IN-CLASS” BOASTS: Beware of companies that say they are better than the rest –…

“The eyes are the window to your soul.” Experts estimate that 55-80 % of our communication is non-verbal and facial expressions are one of the most important nonverbal channels for communication with the eyes often referred to as the windows to the soul. The expressiveness of one's eyes reveals much about one's emotions – happiness is evident through smile or laughter lines that appear in the corners of the eyes, anger through frown lines and surprise by raised eyebrows. Making the most of these 'windows' during these mask-wearing times is therefore really important and the change in emphasis can be seen as the sales of lipsticks has dropped versus a boom in eye products including eyeshadows, mascara, eyeliners and eyebrow products. The humble eyebrow has been getting more attention for…

PIMPLE PATCHES: These help draw out puss and oil. Depending on the size and severity of the pimple, use at night or even your face under a mask. TRY: Spot Clear Salicylic Acid Patch - www.skinrepublic.co.za OINTMENT: It does sound old school but a bit of Vaselinelike ointment on sensitive skin will help clear dry, flaky patches. TRY: Simply Bee Antiseptic Balm - www.simplybee.co.za LIP BALM: Constant mask wearing will also make your lips and the skin around them dry. Keep lips hydrated. TRY: Eco Diva Hydrating Lip Balm - www.ecodiva.co.za FACIAL TONERS: Toners help catch dirt and oils that your cleanser might miss, and they can help balance and replenish your skin. Can also hydrate the skin. TRY: The Victoria Garden Toning Freshener - www.thevictoriagarden.co.za CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT: Don't over-exfoliate.…

get the look ECO-CONSCIOUS DRESSES THE STORY BEHIND THE STYLES AND FABRIC You will see smock details & power sleeves in modern silhouettes. The whole Spring/Summer Fashion 2020 collection is made from sustainably sourced materials with 11 of the 17 dresses in 100% sustainably sourced materials and the rest in blends made from at least 50% or more sustainably sourced material. Colour palettes of berry pinks and lilac, black with graphic, florals and playful polka dots. Organic cotton is grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers and contains no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) which is good for the farmers and the environment. Organic cotton has been grown according to a strict standard and checked by an independent certification body. Organic cotton is always traceable. H&M group is one of the world's…

get the look ECO-CONSCIOUS SWIMWEAR THE STORY BEHIND THE STYLES & FABRIC Proud to wear TENCEL™ TENCEL™ branded lyocell fibre is derived from sustainable wood sources, harvested from certified and controlled sources following stringent guidelines and come from natural forests and sustainably managed plantations. TENCEL™ is produced in an environmental responsible closed loop production process, which transforms wood pulp into cellulosic fibres. H&M group is one of the world's biggest users of lyocell. Recycled polyester is made from old PET bottles or similar. H&M aim to increase their use of recycled polyester every year. In 2016, the clothing retailer used recycled polyester the equivalent of more than 180 million PET bottles. H&M group is one of the world's biggest users of recycled polyester. PROUD TO WEAR Available at H&M stores…

There are multiple benefits to spending time in your garden, getting your hands dirty and nurturing new plants. Gardening reduces stress and improves your mood and being outside can actually boost your immune system. However, during these times, one must take care to avoid ‘Gardeners' Hands,’ the common name for dry, rough skin, calluses and brittle nails one gets from gardening. Working with dirt and fertilisers removes moisture from your hands and actions such as digging, pulling, hoeing and raking causes your hands to form thick skin to protect certain areas. But don't worry, you can still tend to a beautiful garden without sacrificing the beauty of your hands. Here are some important tips: Always Remember Sunscreen SPF will protect your skin from premature ageing and sunburn. Not all gardening…

Protex with Flaxseed Oilis a natural boosting antibiotic protection and providing prolonged protection against bacteria. The flaxseed technology protects against germs while also rejuvenating skin and making you healthier. Purifi Organic Fresh kills 99.9% of all germs, viruses, bacteria and fungi. The water-based solution is alcohol, chlorine and chemical free. Purifi Organic Fresh is ideal for private and commercial use and is suitable for fogging and misting on all surfaces from steel to tiles to fabrics. Available from www.purifiorganicfresh.com Spray Safe Sanitizer Fogger from The Promo Group is a must. Perfect in giving your home or workplace that deep clean that will contribute to keeping you, your family and staff safe. Available from www.thepromogroup.co.za Beaucience Botanicals Hand Sanitiser 60ml is a non-sticky, biodegradable hand-sanitiser is specially formulated to moisturise while…

• KNOW WHO TO CONTACT Every emergency situation is different, and the exact procedures of how to handle the emergency may vary – but one thing that will always be your first point of call is to get help. If disaster strikes, you might not have time to search for emergency numbers. You may also be too stressed and panicky to think straight. • Ensure you have a list of emergency contacts printed out and stuck up in a central point in your home – a good place is the fridge.• Make sure that these contacts are updated regularly and that they include your preferred medical and security response providers as well as a friend or family member. It is also a good idea to keep a copy of this…

WHAT YOU NEED: • 180g Oreo cookies• 200g melted vegan butter• 200g blueberries• ¼ cup lemon juice• 200g sugar• 350g vegan cream cheese • 250g coconut cream• 20g agar powder• 1 tbsp vanilla essence• 125ml hot water• 80g vegan chocolate HOW TO MAKE: 1. Line the bottom of a 20cm pan with a baking sheet. Set aside. 2. Crush the Oreo cookies with a rolling pin or use a food processor. 3. Pour the crushed cookies into a food processor, pour melted butter and blend well. 4. Pour the cookies into the pan and set in the fridge for 30 minutes. 5. In a non-stick pan, pour the blueberries, lemon juice and sugar. Simmer the blueberries under medium heat until the syrup is thick. 6. Blend the blueberries in a food…

VANILLA ICE CREAM WHAT YOU WILL NEED: •1 tin sweetened condensed milk (plain)• 2 x 250ml cream• 1 tsp vanilla essence HOW TO MAKE: 1. Add the entire tin of sweetened condensed milk, cream and vanilla extract (or your own flavour) to the bowl. 2. Beat using the wire whisk attachment until soft peaks just begin to form. 3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf tin or similar sized container. Cover the top with cling wrap and freeze overnight before serving. 4. Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. STYLING: To add a little bit more fun to your serving you can sandwich your ice-cream between biscuits or add meringues to it. Drizzle melted caramel or chocolate over it. sprinkle nuts, edible flowers, or fruit. OPTIONAL…

Serves 2–4 •Ready In 40 Minutes WHAT YOU NEED: •½ cup pearled barley or quinoa• 200g baby tomatoes, halved• ½ tbsp olive oil• 100g fresh asparagus spears• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste• 100g baby spinach• 2 tbsp each chopped fresh mint and basil• 100g soft goat's milk cheese, roughly crumbled TAHINI DRESSING: •1 clove garlic, crushed• ½ tsp dried chilli flakes• ¼ cup olive oil• ¼ cup red wine vinegar• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey HOW TO MAKE: 1. Cook the barley or quinoa according to the packet instructions. 2. Add the tomatoes and olive oil to a pan over medium high heat and cook until lightly golden. 3. Add the asparagus, and continue cooking for another 2–4 minutes, or until the asparagus is cooked through,…

EBL: Please share with our readers who you are, where you are from? WINNIE: My name is Winnie Mc Henry, and I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. I am the founder and Director of Upcycle Creative. I have always been a tree hugger, a design thinker and a person that is loyal to the development of people. I wear many hats, even upcycled ones! EBL: What made you start your business, was it a light bulb moment or did you see a gap in the market place? WINNIE: Upcycle was born from a passion to ignite inspiration in saving our planet and a journey of personal self-development. I founded Upcycle in 2010. Upcycle is my second company that was spurned on from a process of creating new purposes for materials that are classified as junk. The…

TEMPLATE WHAT YOU NEED: Newspaper Acrylic craft paint and paintbrush (optional) Pencil Scissors Craft glue (Bostik) Kebab sticks HOW TO MAKE: If you want your flowers to have colour, you should paint the newspaper beforehand. If you still want to see the print of the paper make sure that the paint is watered down. Let the paint dry. A suggestion: Paint only the outside of the leaves and petals, leave the inside newsprint. 1. Use your pencil to draw on the newspaper the petals and leaves from the template, then cut out. 2. Once this is done cut out your paper petals and paper leaves. (12 petals and 4 leaves per flower). 3. Paint your kebab stick green or leave it plain. LETS START BUILDING YOUR FLOWER: 4. Start with…