Since I started this blog a couple of years ago, I have met so many AMAZING people and had some unforgettable experiences. I am eternally grateful for the support that you have given me through your e-mails, attendance at events, and random hugs when I see you out and about.

I have enjoyed communing with all of you on the engaging topics of natural hair, travel, food, and wholistic living. I am still intrigued by these subjects, but it has been on my heart lately to connect with you all on a more ethereal level.

I want to use this space to share things that will inspire, encourage and most of all, empower you. You never know the indelible impact a stirring quote, story of triumph, or just a mesmerizing song can have on someone’s life.

What makes you smile? How do you find inspiration? What are your fears? Are you living your true purpose? How can we learn to live in the now?

We will explore the answers to these and other questions together, as we all continue to grow and reach our own unparalleled heights.

I look forward to reconnecting with you all!

~Miss Lycia

I want to thank everyone who participated in “A Winter Retreat”: our dynamic vendors, talented speakers, and attendees, who by the way, were absolutely beautiful!!! I am so appreciative to all of you for your unwavering support of All Day Natural, and I am honored to have gotten to know so many of you well during these events.

Stay tuned in the next few days for dazzling photos, interviews and a more in-depth recap of “A Winter Retreat.” In the meantime, enjoy this lovely montage, courtesy of Shorter Design.

A Winter Retreat from Chanell Shorter on Vimeo.

To show my thanks to everyone for their support of All Day Natural and this event, I am offering a special giveaway. Spread the word about the event to your friends, family, and contacts. You are welcome to share this event link with them. Tell your contacts to leave a comment below or on the All Day Natural Facebook page, letting me know who referred them. The person who refers the most people will receive a “Head to Toe” Gift Set from J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary. (I LOVE this set, ya’ll!) The winner will be announced on December 3rd.

I look forward to seeing all of you soon! Hope you had a marvelous long weekend!

It’s that time of season.  The grocery stores are packed, menus are being planned and most people are counting down the hours until their biggest feast of the year. For many, the thought of having to prepare a lavish meal for friends and family seems intimidating, especially if you are seeking healthy alternatives to sedative-filled turkeys and pork-laden collard greens. Fear not, my friends, I have some nontraditional (yet appetizing!) suggestions for your holiday table. Ooh, I am hungry already!

Start off the morning with Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal, or this easy Moist Vegan Banana Bread from the always creative blog Savvy Brown. (Or if you have a lot of mouths to feed, try both!) But save some room for the main meal.

Make this Pepper Seitan the highlight of your Thanksgiving table. The creative recipe is from Tracye McQuirter, author of the invaluable guide to veganism, By Any Greens Necessary. Of course, Vegan Stuffing would be a perfect highlight to the main dish. I have been making this for years, and it is always a big hit.  To round out your main meal, add Garlic Mashed Potatoes (+ Dill for an extra zing) and Sesame Spinach (recipe below).  And now for my favorite part! For dessert, my tantalizing Chocolate Mousse Pie. (I usually make this for holiday gatherings, and it never lasts long!)

Sesame Spinach

Wash a bunch of spinach. Add 2 tablespoons sesame oil, juice from 1/2  of a lemon, and a dash of salt to taste. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, and you have a ready-made dish (in less than five minutes!) The spinach is ready to eat right away, but I usually let mine marinate for a few hours to maximize the taste.

Best of all, these recipes are so simple, you’ll be out of the kitchen in no time. Better than spending your whole vacation cooking, right?

Don’t forget…I will have more healthy recipes available at “A Winter Retreat,” Saturday, December 3rd…and some tasty holiday treats as well!

Have you tried these recipes? What is on your holiday menu?

As promised, here are more details about the event, “A Winter Retreat” which will be held Saturday, December 3rd from Noon to 5:00 p.m. at the Broad Avenue Ballroom, 2535 Broad Avenue.

Vendors

I know many of you will be shopping for the holidays. This is a perfect opportunity to support and connect with local artisans and merchants.  Here are just some of the confirmed vendors you can meet at “A Winter Retreat”.

• Bubble Bistro
• Dare Threads Vintage
• Etniq Minerals
• Foods for Your Skin
• Hair Deva
• Mi-Me Handmade Bath and Body Products
• Nakia Amour
• Natural Cuties
• OC Vegan Foods
• Perfect Piece Jewelry
• Touch of Essence Mobile Spa Products
• Urban Chocolate
• Very Prissy

Presentations

In addition to these awesome vendors, there is an amazing lineup of expert speakers at the event. I know you will be as excited to hear from them as I am!

12:30 p.m.

“Heal Yourself: Natural Remedies and Prevention for Cold & Allergy Relief” by Bastet Ankh Re, Co-Founder, Natural House of Wellness

1:30 p.m.

“Protect Your Mane: Tips & Techniques for Winter Hair Care” by Takeisha Berry-Brooks, Owner, A Natural Affair Beauty Lounge

2:30 p.m.

“Shop Your Closet: Update Your Style on a Budget” by Kim Brown, Stylist/Owner, Urban Chocolate Boutique

3:30 p.m.

Special Appearance by Kim Caldwell, author of How Green Smoothies Saved My Life and Activate Your Abundance: Remembering Your Power to Create What You Want

Advance Tickets

Thanks to those of you who have already gotten your tickets for “A Winter Retreat”! As a show of thanks, everyone who purchases advance discounted tickets by November 28th will receive a small gift of appreciation at the event. You can purchase tickets here.

I look forward to seeing all of you Saturday, December 3rd! We’re going to have a blast!

P.S. Stay tuned for another special giveaway in anticipation of the event!

Will you be attending “A Winter Retreat”? What do you look forward to?

Hi friends!

I recently shared with you how much I enjoy this season: the crisp autumn air, the mesmerizing beauty of the foliage…what’s not to love? Some of you may not welcome this time of year as enthusiastically, however, because fall is also known as the dreaded allergy season. That’s right, sneezing, coughing, red eyes, headaches…it’s enough to make you want to hibernate for the next few months. I can relate–for years, I was afflicted with sinus headaches anytime there were falling temperatures. I had a steady supply of over-the-counter medications on hand, but that didn’t stop the problem….or my pain. Luckily, since making positive changes in my lifestyle, these headaches have vanished, and my sanity has returned. I hope these tips can provide much needed relief to you as well.

1. Evaluate your eating habits. I know what you’re saying, “this is common sense,” right? Of course, it is, but although many of us know the connection between fresh foods and health, we don’t always incorporate it into our lives. Everything we eat either builds up our immune system or weakens it. There is no neutral ground. I realized that my headaches were rampant when I subsided on a diet of meat and potatoes, but now that I consume mainly fresh fruits and vegetables, these maladies are a distant memory. You too can prevent the wrath of sinus symptoms, by making conscious choices about what you eat.

2. Skip the meds. You may think this is easier said than done, but trust me, in the long run, it benefits you greatly. Most cold medications just suppress your symptoms without addressing the underlying issue. Sure, it’s uncomfortable to sneeze every 10 seconds and cough up the nasty stuff, but that’s your body’s way of eliminating toxins. These symptoms also caution us to stop, rest, and let our body heal itself naturally. Two or three days of stillness and rest outweighs two weeks of medication (and its inevitable adverse side effects) any day.

3. Try essential oils. There are a number of ways you can utilize these. Take a sinus blend (you can get it at any heath store or make your own essential oil mix–more on that in a later post). Make a steam inhalation by boiling a pot of water and adding a few drops of the oil to the water. Place a towel over your head, and inhale deeply through your nostrils. Instant relief! Note: Be careful with the steam….it’s powerful. You can also massage the blend into your temples, behind your ears, the chest, and even your feet to help ease sinus tension.

4. Juice your fruits and vegetables. In the book, “Heal Thyself Natural Living Cookbook”, author Diane Ciccone points out that fruit juices are helpful to detox the body and cleanse, and vegetable juices are essential in restoring the body’s nutrients and building immunity. I made this juice concoction recently for a family member, and she felt marvelous afterwards. (I must admit though, garlic is invaluable as natural antibiotic, but it can be a little strong. Be forewarned. ). Feel free to experiment with any combination that works for you.

Cold Elixir

1 cucumber

Handful of kale (you can also try parsley, spinach, or chard)

1 green apple, cored

Juice from 1/2 lemon

1 or 2 garlic cloves (depending on how daring you are, lol)

Add items to a juicer, and drink away. Alternatively, you can use a blender. Just add enough water to liquefy the mixture. This concoction will have you rejuvenated in no time.

For those of you in the Mid-South area, find out more about these tips and more at “A Winter Retreat” on Saturday, December 3rd. Holistic Health Counselor Bastet Ankh Re will present, “Heal Yourself: Natural Remedies and Prevention for Cold & Allergy Relief”. Come prepared with your questions and to learn!

What natural remedies do you use when suffering from a cold or allergy?

As you have probably seen by now, in advertisements, television and on the street, natural hair is making a big splash everywhere….a long awaited one!

It’s not a trend though, natural hair is here to stay. I am thrilled to see young women embrace their natural beauty, and older generations rediscover it. In recognition of this movement, there are many natural hair events being held all around the country. Here are just a few in the Mid-South:

The Buzz About Natural Hair

Presentation by salon owner and author, “The Hair Deva”. She will share advice and insight on the topic of natural hair. Men and women are welcome to bring any questions and share their own natural hair experiences. Guest stylists, demonstrations and hair consultations will be available at this event.

Saturday, November 12, 2:30 – 4:30pm (Free and open to the public).
Raleigh Branch Library,  3157 Powers Rd. Memphis, TN 38128

Girls Night In, hosted by Yvette of Natural Divinity Salon

Come chat with fellow naturals, get manicures, enjoy wine & cheese, and more! To RSVP, call (901) 435-6421

Saturday, November 26, 5:00-9:00 p.m.

5070 Raleigh LaGrange, Suite 14, Memphis, TN

FCA Naturals Hair Expo

Come see vendors, product samples, live raffles and receive lots of healthy hair information.

Saturday, December 17  2:00-5:00 p.m.

Forrest City Civic Center

1335 N. Washington St, Forrest City, AR

And finally don’t forget about “A Winter Retreat” sponsored by yours truly, All Day Natural, Saturday, December 3rd!  Stay tuned for a detailed list of vendors and presentations. I look forward to seeing you all at these and future events.

Until next time, make it a great day!

Do you plan to attend these events? What natural hair events are happening in your area?

We all had such a great time at the Tennessee Natural Hair & Wellness Expo hosted by All Day Natural in July. Since then, I know many of you have been anxiously awaiting the next event.

I am thrilled to share this upcoming celebration with you. On Saturday, December 3rd, All Day Natural Presents, “A Winter Retreat”. This event will be held at the Broad Avenue Ballroom, 2535 Broad Avenue, from Noon to 5 p.m.

You don’t want to miss this. There will be presentations on mind and body wellness, winter hair care and protective styles, advice on fashion and more. I am very excited to bring you a vendor marketplace–just in time for your holiday shopping! The highlight of this showcase includes local vendors with handmade jewelry, bath, body and haircare products, and unique clothing designs. As always, there will be lots of other marvelous surprises in store for all guests.

You can purchase your discounted tickets in advance here. Stay tuned for more details about the event.

See you soon!

Hello friends!

Yesterday was November 1st. Those of you who know me are aware that this day has a personal special significance to me, but there was another reason to celebrate the special day: World Vegan Day, which is the beginning of World Vegan Month!

Ways to celebrate this entire month (and extend these habits throughout the year.

Participate in Meatless Monday. What a great way to kick off the week! The purpose of this campaign is to reduce worldwide meat consumption with the goals of not only improving individual health, but also making a positive impact on the environment. This site has tips, recipes, and resources to assist you in your weekly effort.

Host a vegan potluck. I heartily welcome any excuse to get family and friends together to socialize.  Have everyone bring their favorite vegetable, pasta or bean dish, or alternatively, make your gathering a themed event. Here are a few recipes to get you started: Bean & Guac Tortilla, Moroccan Couscous, Veg Sushi. The possibilities are endless!

Visit a vegetarian restaurant. Find out your local hotspots here. Even if you don’t have an all-vegetarian spot in your town yet, many ethnic/international places are extremely vegetarian/vegan friendly. Vietnamese, Indian, Thai, Middle-Eastern, and Caribbean restaurants always have lots of appetizing vegetarian options.

Visit your library or bookstore and learn more about the vegan lifestyle. There are SO many informative books with tantalizing recipes and motivating anecdotes to get you started on the vegan journey. Of course, there are far to many to name here, but my favorites are, Becoming Vegan: The Complete Guide to Adopting a Plant-Based Diet by Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina, Vegan’s Daily Companion: 365 Days of Inspiration for Cooking, Eating, and Living Compassionately by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

I shared the story of why I became a vegetarian here. I can honestly say it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Friends (and well-meaning strangers) often jokingly ask if I miss chicken or get tired of eating grass (how original, lol!) The truth is, I don’t feel like I am ever missing anything. In fact, my life has been enriched by the decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle. My awareness about my health, spirituality and environmental issues has vastly increased.

Even if you’re not ready to take the plunge into veganism yet, I encourage you to increase the fruits and vegetables that you consume at least for a little while, to see the difference in how you feel.

Are you a vegetarian/vegan? What changes have you noticed since transitioning?

Are you curious about eating a more plant-based diet? What sparks your curiosity?

It’s been a while, and I have missed you so. In between traveling and preparing to move into new digs, I have been working, working, working day and night (c) MJ. I’m back now though and can’t wait to catch up with you all!

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.

~Stanley Horowitz

I usually countdown the days of summer wistfully, but this year, I found myself looking forward to the change of seasons. I admit while I am writing this it is 75 degrees outside, but the calendar tells me its Autumn nonetheless.

What do I love about this time of year? It signals that my four favorite holidays are near: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas….and my birthday! Also, the rich beauty of the landscape during Fall is undeniable. Next time you’re taking a drive through the country, take time to marvel at the magnificent array of colors. I stopped to admire the breathtaking colors of the leaves last week while I was traveling, and it really made the rest of my day. And let’s not forget, the foods of Fall: pumpkin pies, apple strudel, pear cobbler…can you tell I have a sweet tooth? LOL!

I know this can be a hectic time for a lot of you, with school, jobs and a demanding social calendar.  I hope you take the time to pause and embrace the joys of this season.

What do you like best about Autumn?