Pure energy for 2014

Happy New Year! Another fresh start and another list of resolutions? Or well planned goals? Are any of them health related? Maybe ....you're looking for weight loss? More energy? Or about to detox? You're browsing the right blog! I'm going to share the benefits of the fantastic Arbonne Nutrition range and how it may complement your new year goals! 

Before I do that however, let me explain what happened to me. It was the end of 2012 and I was at my local gym in Ealing and got chatting to a personal trainer, who asked after my training - how it was going etc. I pulled a face and indicated I was troubled somewhat, because despite best efforts I was suffering from a classic case of stop start. 

You know how it often is - you are feeling motivated, full of energy, you are down the gym, cooking lots of chicken and vegetables, you're racing about at work, working on your Arbonne business or other commitments in life, as well as juggling a busy social diary - either for you or your children (or both!). Three to four weeks into this routine, you're tired, motivation dips, you get drunk/run down/ill or all three, eat bad food and everything is out the window for a week. It then takes another week to gear yourself back up again. So, you psyche yourself back up, feel on top of the world and it starts all over again. Meanwhile, for me, even though the oily combination FC5 face set had worked wonders on my skin, I was still suffering spot break outs about every 6 weeks for no apparent reason. (Hormones, stress, lack of sleep or something missing in your diet can all be reasons for this)

The trainer responded to me with words, that I also hear often in business and really resonated with my challenges.

He said :

Conquering this is 80% diet and just 20% exercise

Consistency was always going to be the  key

 Exercise needed to become habitual
and

Once you have broken the pain barrier of 3 months of consistency, results came much easier

I went away for a little muse on his comments. For another 6 months.

Now let me put this into context for those who don't know me. I wasn't overweight, or unfit and my skin had been overall good since starting Arbonne. I also had some reasonable habits in place already - such as drinking lots of water, ate generally well, started the day with hot water and lemon, chose stairs over the lift etc. But. I wanted to feel good for longer. Consistently good and break this stop-start cycle.

So, half way through January 2013 after treading the same circles I decided it was time to invest in me (you only have one body and one life - right?). My goal was to conquer good healthy eating (having regular fresh food in the fridge would be a start), be gym consistent, increase my vitamin and mineral intake and only indulge in alcohol once a week - all in a bid to adapt my lifestyle. This is what I did: 

 I hired the Trainer

I put Arbonne "Fit Kit" & Collagen support tablets (good for any skin conditions) on special delivery, so it would land on my doorstep every 30 days ( to ensure I didn't ever run out of essentials)

Started having organic meat and fish deliveries (to stop having to shop every 1-2 days and ensure I always had fresh/good quality food in the fridge)

Hired a cleaner (I was going to be too busy in the gym)

Scheduled exercise and rest into the diary

If you think about it, the only item on that list that required real, genuine effort, was being whipped into shape by the Personal Trainer. The rest were just simple tweaks/changes that required a little bit of discipline.

Interestingly, as is life, just making a few small changes often leads to others, and a couple of months later I :

Started incorporating yoga into my routine

I enrolled in the "Cycle to Work Scheme" and bought a bicycle to incorporate exercise into my daily travel routine by cycling to the gym/work/yoga

Invested in some physio to help me understand my back and shoulder issues the personal training had highlighted

Bought a foam roller for home stretches

Meanwhile I was - consistently -  taking the nutrition daily, eating well, and overall doing well with indulging in alcohol just once a week. 

6 months later and the result of these changes were:

Comments - "You look good, something is different - what is it?"

Skin compliments

Lost some body fat and weight has maintained

Increased muscle/tone 

No skin break outs

Fit into old clothes that had previously been snug

Feeling good and making different choices when my stress levels increased - eg the gym, not the pub

Improved my posture

There is no doubt, that the initial forced disciplines and preparations set me up for success. I paid in advance for the trainer and the physio, and booked on line for my food and nutrition deliveries to land in advance. Over time however, I developed new habits. Now I just have the odd session with the trainer to keep me on my toes, and I'm due to finish with the physio this week, otherwise everything else remains largely the same (give or take too many beers over the course of December)

But, this is an Arbonne blog. So how did taking the nutrition complement my goal and how might it help YOU?

The Arbonne nutrition products are designed to assist the body with nutritional healing, to help it function properly by combating the challenges of modern life, which imbalances and disrupts the fine tuning - think gluten, whey, preservatives, refined sugars, white carbohydrates, alcohol, pollution etc If the body isn't functioning as it should, things can happen like - blood sugars dip, sluggishness develops, you store fat and toxins, IBS and skin problems develop. Ultimately, we are what we absorb, so if the body is imbalanced and isn't functioning as it should, vitamin absorption can be severely depleted.

So by taking the Fit kit (Protein shake, omega 3, Fibre Boost and Herbal infusion tea) along with the RE9 Collagen support tablets, I was not only helping my body to balance and function as it should, but I was also absorbing the essential vitamin and minerals both from the nutrition and my food. This meant I had more energy for working out and maintaining my busy life.

Here's a little information on each of the products that I believe could help you this January for weight loss, energy levels, wellness and detoxing. Also, a note, all the nutrition is formulated without - artificial sweeteners/colours or flavours, trans fats, cholesterol, animals or animal by-products. 

Protein shakes - Good for lean muscle - Meal replacement shake (breakfast and lunch) or if you are you an avid exerciser - Puts protein back into the muscle fibre - contains chromium which helps stabilise blood sugar - formulated with a pea and cranberry protein, meaning easier to absorb and therefore more effective. PACKED full of vitamins and minerals.

Good for weight loss, detoxing, energy, muscle definition, extra minerals and nutrients.

(I have one for breakfast every morning and one within 30 minutes of working out. I mix in a blender with lots of ice and water)

Omega 3 capsules - Omega 3 insulates and repairs cells in the body, Helps inflammation of the lining of blood vessels (Inflammation can lead to sickness - diets with lots of gluten, sugars and processed carbohydrate diets will lead to inflammation in the body) - Good for repairing injuries, connective tissues - Can help IBS and leaky gut syndrome - Helps with - keeping blood sugars stable, concentration, dry hair, dandruff, nails, dry flaky skin, itchy skin and all aspects of your health.

Great for repairing the body, concentration and detoxing

Antioxidant and immunity support - helps fight toxins - fortifies your system very quickly - supports your lymphatic system - good for you if post operative - reverses ageing at every cell level - good for skin conditions. Helps with inflammatory issues, oxidative stress and neutralises free radicals

Great to support immune system, overall health, energy and detoxing

The gut - SO important to get this operating properly - sort this out and so many other health symptoms go away:

Fibre boost - Great source of fibre - Makes you feel fuller for longer - Good for gastrointestinal tract and normal bowel function - Gives people the tools to help their system work properly 

(I put this in with my protein shake)

Good for gut, energy and weight loss. 

Digestive Plus - Pre-biotics - prepare the system to receive nutrition - Pro-biotics - helps break down the food - if you have an unhealthy gut the body stores fat and becomes sluggish - Gluten roughs up your insides, slows down the GI system and prevents vitamin absorption - use digestion plus to heal this. Also good for eczema and acne/skin conditions.

Essential for maximum vitamin absorption - we are what we absorb, not just what we eat. good for detoxing, weight loss and energy

Nutrition bars - very rich in fibre - High in quinoa - Will lift your blood sugar levels - source of further protein

Great as a snack - Have a quarter or half with lots water and will help you feel full. Fibre assists the gut. Good for energy and stable blood sugars. 

Herbal infusion Tea - Tea is a potent cleanse for liver and kidneys - contains milk thistle which repairs. Healthy kidney and liver = you feel better

Swapping some or all of your drinks with caffeine or lots of milk, for this tea makes you feel generally "cleaner" inside. Good for detoxing and energy. 

This is just a brief overview of some of nutrition and the benefits they could bring. I'd also encourage you to remember, with the nutrition supplements in order to see results they tend to show themselves after consistent use over a period of time. The best way to trial the nutrition is to purchase the items that best fit your health and fitness goals and use them consistently every single day for at least 30 days. For best results, if you can, commit to 90. If you presently do not take any supplements or nutrition and are overwhelmed by the prospect, perhaps just invest in one or two items from the range, simply incorporate into your daily routine until it becomes a habit and then you can branch out from there.

Whatever your goals this year, have a happy, healthy and prosperous 2014! By the way, just so you know.... I also firmly believe in having a "cheat day" once a week....

Jen x

Nb:

To receive full ingredient listings; Learn about Detox Spa range; Understand prices/offers/ discounts on Arbonne products; Learn about 30 Day to Fit programme, please revert to the consultant who shared this blog with you for more information.

This blog is compiled by an Arbonne consultant for other Arbonne consultants, and is not produced by Arbonne Head Office

Confessions of an Arbonne Girl....in Viva Las Vegas!!!

The Tuesday flight crew from The Simpson Region

Vegas! Ever been? Every time I mentioned where I was due to spend my annual leave, people would generally leap out of their seats with excitement. Everyone it seems, has a great time in Vegas, or they would really (really) love to go. Of course, when I threw into conversation that I was actually attending a conference for my part time business, then confusion would tend to kick in, possibly also mixed with a little awe. Conference? Not a hen do? Not a holiday? Spending annual leave from a full time job.....at work?! People leaving behind kids and husbands/wives to go to Vegas for an actual conference? Really? 

Really. This is Arbonne's Global Training Conference 2013, it's held in Vegas every year, and I was there! And - picture this - it wasn't just me. 14,000 people from the UK, States, Canada and Oz were doing the same.

Attending the conference is voluntary as an Independent Arbonne Consultant. I chose to attend and frankly - it blew my mind. Now, I have been on company conferences before - Cannes, Dublin, Bournemouth, Brighton - they were typically great fun but one long drunken event, with a bit of obligatory training thrown in. The difference with this conference, was that whilst I enjoyed my fair share of tipples in Vegas, I was actually more excited about the conference -  I was there to learn as much as possible and it didn't disappoint.

Sometimes people don't understand why I am "doing" Arbonne. It's a bit of a puzzle. Health and Wellness products versus my property background? Why don't I start my own lettings firm, like some of my peers have? But, I don't believe that is the route for me. I enjoy my job and this pays my immediate bills, but my Arbonne business is a part time opportunity to build a future, a plan b or pension and all for low start up without having to give everything up or completely start over. The company is ethical, warm, fun, young, but with a solid 33 year history (the son and widow of the founder Petter Morck were actually AT the conference) and the concept is simple. Recommendation. Something we all do, every single day, but most people don't get paid for the pleasure. Recommend a product and business, and find a few others who want to do the to do the same. The cherry on the top with Arbonne (aside from the global conference being in Vegas) is that the products are outstanding. Genuinely. Outstanding.*




Kay Napier CEO with picture of Petter Morck founder (top),
new product training (left), conference registration (bottom right)

MGM Grand Garden Arena (Top) filled with 14,000 Arbonne consultants.
Illuminated signs throughtpot the MGM Grand Casino welcoming
Arbonne(bottom left), opening ceremony (bottom right)

People have changed their lives by building a business with Arbonne and going to Vegas really opened my eyes to the possibilities. Let me put this into context - think staying at home with your kids rather than returning to office hours, think Million Dollar Club, think giving up work, think retiring at 30, think putting buses on the road for a charity, think people with illnesses who need something flexible and home based, think business owners who were seeking other income streams to give them more time..... Let's just say.....it really hit home rubbing shoulders with 13,999 other consultants. There is a reason we have all started this business.

The training and product launches were fascinating, fun, informative and at times hilarious - 14,000 people literally swooning over the new mascara was just brilliant! (By the way, the mascara is magnificent!) The conference was made up of product seminars, Arbonne cafe, product counters, Arbonne shop in the MGM Grand's ballrooms, and then the main conference was held in the Garden Arena. It commenced with an opening ceremony and product launches** on Thursday night where we donned red white and blue (the Brits section might still be small - 850 from the UK attended - but we looked great and we shouted the loudest!!) followed by a full day training on Friday and Saturday, and ending with "Arbonne's got Talent" on the closing evening.

Let me summarise what my trip (of work) involved (in no particular order).....

Bucks fizz breakfast, going to Paris, Cosmopolitans in the Cosmopolitan, Eating sushi, two limo trips and one party bus trip, seeing Stomp, meeting Peter Matravars (beauty scientist superstar), collecting free products, meeting people in the million dollar club, sharing the best steak I have ever eaten (like..ever!), having Starbucks on the ground floor of the hotel, inspirational training, cocktails in the sun, chatting to anyone and everyone.....



Paris (top left), Bellagio fountains (right) and
Charlotte Emerywinning on the one
armed bandits (bottom left)

.....sunbathing at lunchtime, whooping at the Bellagio fountains, indoor skies, receiving amazing training, gambling precisely $2.70, Matt Goss walking past us, seeing much loved friends "walk the Vegas stage" in the Garden Arena, Bellagio brunch, pizza and champagne, people watching, comparing business notes, laughing, watching movies together on the plane and generally having the time of our life......



MGM pool (top), Drinks at the Cosmopolitan (bottom left),
Jennie Fojtik, Jane Simpson & Maggie Sarfo
at conference (bottom right)

Aside from the conference, we were in Vegas baby - and in conclusion - I loved it! I couldn't stop exclaiming "it's like a feast for the eyes"! Everything is big, bold, classy, cheesy, magnificent, chintzy....the weather is amazing, the service is excellent, people are friendly (and obsessed by your "cute accent"), the shopping is great, food fabulous. Oh...and you get free drinks whilst you gamble....

And you know the other great bit? Sharing all this with friends. Friends who I knew before Arbonne, friends who I have made because of Arbonne. It was just so much fun.

I loved every single minute.

* To learn more on the Arbonne products or how to start your own Arbonne business, contact myself or the consultant who shared this blog with you

** To learn more about the new product lines contact myself or the consultant who shared this blog with you

Awaken with A-Brill

Welcome to ...snowy (?) spring! In February, I introduced the fantastic Aromessentials range and they are proving a very popular edition to the catalogue, for their health and well being benefits. The Awaken body scrub, in particular, is being raved about! I now have the full Aromessentials set available for home trial, so please do contact me if you would like to borrow and try for yourself.

So speaking of health and well being, here's a reminder of the ranges that can assist you with feeling better, inside and out (whilst we wait for winter to end).....

Detox Spa Range - Helps break down toxins in the body. Assists with cellulite, circulation, hydration and nourishes skin with vitamins and sea minerals. Promotes detoxification and purification. (See post "Happy New you" 2012)

This range will compliment anyone feeling run down, on fitness or weight loss programmes. Jen's recommends - The seasource scrub & bath soak, great for preparing a bikini bod for holidays!

Nutrition - Remember, you are what you absorb! The Arbonne Essentials supplements are made with the highest quality ingredients and are formulated to maximise ingredient absorption and effectiveness. (See post "Getting fit for Thirteen"2013)

The fitness range will compliment those working out or on weight loss programmes, and the nutrition supplements are excellent for everyone throughout the year. Jen's recommends the protein shakes for breakfast and/or post work out for a bundle of nutrition!

Dry, painful skin - this weather also means you could be suffering with some/all of the following -chapped lips, dry body, coarse hands, dry face. Jen's recommends, would be:
Lips - skin conditioning oil & Before sun Lip Saver
Body - Sea source Re-mineralizing body lotion
Hands - Skin conditioning oil & FC5 hand cream (or for extremely cracked hands Baby Care Herbal Nappy Cream)
Dry Face - RE9 Advanced Extra Moisture Restorative Day Creme (unisex)

Opportunity Meetings/Discover Arbonne events - What are they?

Most people have noticed that opportunity meetings are held across the country and some people have asked me - What are they? In short, it is a 30-50 minute talk with visuals, offering a background to the company, information on the product formulation and an explanation of the business opportunity. They are free, fun, informative and usually followed by a drink in the bar afterwards!

The reason they exist, is because some people like to learn more about Arbonne after their initial introduction and going along to a city centre or local meeting is a fantastic way to do this; You benefit from the opportunity to meet consultants at all levels in the business, to ask questions and to understand the bigger picture. The scale of each meeting is very different, from intimate gatherings of a few, to large scale city venues with 500 attendees or more!

The meeting we hold in Kew each month is fantastically located for those in West London, but is also accessible via the M4, Kew Bridge BR and the district line. The room holds up to 25 people, and is an intimate and informal venue. The next date is Wednesday 17th April, 7.30 for 8pm. If you would like to come and enjoy a glass of wine with us, then please RSVP to me or the consultant who shared this blog with you.

In Your Words

A very popular feature last month, so here's a few more!!

Primer

"The make up primer...it is silky and lightweight to use - never fails to leave skin smooth and even, whilst giving me the confidence in a shine-free face for the whole of the day - it really works!"

Silky Smith in Stratford

Top Tip - use on your eyelids for crease free eyeshadow application

FC5 Exfoliating New Cell Scrub

"Fc5 hydration range is the only product I have used that combats my dry skin! My skin always feels soft and looks much healthier. The exfoliation new cell scrub is my fave....feels like I have a new face after!"

Red hot yoga bunny in Putney

Top Tip - After use of preferred Arbonne mask, smooth over face and leave for a few minutes before rinsing. Follow with preferred Arbonne face wash and finished with Arbonne night cream for a mini facial!

RE9 Cleanser & Sea Source Hair Mask

"Re9 cleanser - Love this! Leaves my skin really soft, its like having a spa facial every morning! As for the Sea Source Hair Mask - miracle worker!! A real treat, leaves even the finest hair full of volume and super soft!"

Arbonne lover near the River Avon

Top tip - Leave the mask on overnight for super soft results or  to assist exceptionally dry scalps.





Thank you for all the contributors to this feature! (Do you have a favourite product you would love to share? All testimonials are welcomed!)

Next Time - Viva Las Vegas!!!! The Arbonne Global Conference is held in Vegas every year, where 10,000 consultants attend!! I can't wait! I will have all the gossip and news on products on my return, at the end of April!

Awaken the senses with Aroma - Feb

Some people may not be aware, but Arbonne is now 33 years old and the UK has just celebrated it's 5th birthday! Here in the UK we have over 250 products, but not quite as many as the States owing to our youth, and products are released here after being passed through the strict EU regulations. Arriving this new year we have.......

The Aromassentials range!

In January, the Arbonne roadshow visited 4 cities across the UK, to launch the new products to consultants and their guests. I attended the roadshow in Lancaster Gate, London and had a fab time; It was twice the size of the 2012 roadshows, word is slowly getting out! We heard from the National Vice Presidents Gordon and Ella, UK General Manager Vicky Beckett and we had a fantastic introduction to Aromassentials by Sue Alexander. Sue is a Regional Vice President with Arbonne, and she is a Holistic Beauty Therapist and has many celebrity clients. She explained to us how she is ecstatic that the range has landed in the UK, having had to ship it from the states for the last few years.

Aromassentials, like many of the Arbonne products, are not just about the affect on your skin but also contribute to your overall well being. Everybody knows that the everyday battles of commuting, work stress and dramas of juggling a million and one things can take its toll on your health inside and out; This delicious range can assist with this, enhancing your energy levels at the start of the day and aiding relaxation at the end. For the full product list for - "Awaken" (Good morninggggg!!) and "Unwind" (nighty night zzzzzzzz) check out  http://naturaljen.myarbonne.co.uk, but here are some interesting snippets of information that I picked up at the Roadshow:

Awaken Range

To give us more energy! Signature notes are lemon and coriander (coriander, great for digestion!)  - can be used by the whole family - very light and gentle - sea salt scrub is great for sorting oily/combo skin on the body - body lotion contains horsechesnut which is great for circulation and dry/itchy skin on the hands and feet - Body mist is great for the face and hair (dandruff in particular) and is anti-fungal.

Unwind Range

Luxurious range great for helping people who have trouble switching off at the end of the day - try the body lotion on the hands and feet before bed, it will truly relax you - use massage oil on the temples for headaches, it will also nourish and regenerate you ....and is an aphrodisiac - Body mist is good for de-stressing, calming down and contains watercress which is great for headaches and migraines.

For more information on which products from the range may be good for you, then drop me a mail or contact the consultant who shared this blog with you.

Cost of living going up, up up....

Everyone knows the cost of living keeps rising, our wages are barely increasing and redundancies are still rife. As a result, more and more people are turning to companies like Arbonne for a primary or secondary income - Arbonne grew by 74% 2011 to 2012, which is MASSIVE in any economy, never mind this one!! If you have a friend or relative with a laptop and a phone, looking for a part time opportunity that they can fit around their life - then please feel free to pass them my way. Or maybe you would like to learn how to turn your Arbonne expense, into an income? If so, message me!

Don't take my Word For It

Back by popular demand - Don't Take My Word For It - check out some one line client* testimonials below! Which is your favourite Arbonne product? Let me know!

"I love the Vanilla Amber Sugar Scrub - it makes your skin feel really smooth, reminds me of cakes and the vanilla scent stays on the skin for ages....and my husband always comments on how nice I smell when I have used it!"

Whirlwind in Warwickshire

"I love the Seasource Detox Spa Renewing Body Gelee. I smooth this sumptuous product on after shaving/waxing my legs. It smells fab and is very soothing, making your skin feel amazing! A permanent fixture in my beauty cabinet!"

Foxy Farm Girl

"Its Day 4 using my FC5 purifying cleanser/toner, oil absorbing day lotion and mattifying powder set...and I can honestly say my skin is not only feeling softer but noticeably less shiny too! "

Hottie in Harrogate

"I love the RE9 Cellular Renewal Masque ...I've never ever really noticed an immediate effect with any product before (and believe me, there have been many!) It sounds like a cliche but I had so many comments on my complexion the next day - I looked different, I was glowing! I need to word it better....but it was a miracle! I used it on my wedding day x"

Hot chick from the sticks

"I love Arbonne products and in particular the RE9 Face Serum which just melts in, leaving the skin feeling calmed and prepared for the moisturiser!!"

Arbonne Addict





* Clients names have been disguised for the purposes of this blog

See you next time, for more news, offers and testimonials! Have a wonderful month, and thank you for choosing to shop and work with, Arbonne!

Arbonne Roadshow - Lancaster Gate

Getting Fit for Thirteen?

Happy New Year! Are you still chomping your way through the Quality Street, or has the new year resolve stepped in, forcing you to step away from the biscuit tin and step up to a fresh you? Detoxing and getting fit in the new year is a common goal for many in January, and this months blog will show you how Arbonne can help you succeed.

Whether it's weight loss, gym training or general well being, Arbonne's stunning range of Fit and Nutrition Essentials can assist....

But firstly, you may be wondering why would you choose Arbonne to supplement your detox? What’s the difference to just drinking plain old water, or picking something off the shelf in the high street?

Arbonne uses PURE, ROBUST and ACTIVE botanicals, formulated to ensure maximum ABSORPTION and EFFECTIVENESS. Did you know, you aren't what you eat necessarily....you are what you absorb. Arbonne nutrition is:

*Gluten Free

*Free from artificial colours/sweeteners/additives

*No cholesteral

*No trans or saturated fats

*Vegan**

**(were you aware, as humans we digest ingredients derived from plants far more easily than animal or animal by products. For example there is no whey protein in the Arbonne protein shakes. Using a pea protein, this type of protein is digested easily, is absorbed faster and your body is able to utilise a large amount of the protein from each serving)

I have pulled together some key features of the range to suit the detoxing body
 

Digestion aid - £40

Detox Tea £12
Nutrition bar fruit - £19
Nutrition bar chocolate -£19
Protein shake vanilla or chocolate - £48
Immunity boosters - £56
Sater bottle -£5
Fibre booster - £28

Total Value = £227.00

Existing clients enjoy 20% off, consultants 35%. Brand new clients, take advantage of a fabulous offer by choosing to buy via the ultimate value pack and pay only £125.00 for all of the above!

So, why have I chosen these items from the range?

1/ Your digestive health is intergral to your overall health - healthy gut, happy person!

Digestionaid – An anytime drink, simply mix into cold water/juice/squash -balances the gut with pre-biotics, probiotics and enzymes. Promotes digestion and nutrient uptake, helps decrease bloated feelings and assists with the absorption of vitamins fromthe other nutrition ranges and your diet.

Infusion Tea– An anytime hot beverage - Replace coffee and caffeinated teas forthis infusion. Not only will it assist with a healthy gut (no dairy andcontains licqorice) but also compliments weight loss as it contains green tea and assists hydration to promote the cleansing of the body. Also contains milk thistle, great for detoxification, supporting and repairing the liver and kidney function.

Fibre Booster - Sprinkle over cereal or mix into the protein shake - provides almost 50% of your daily fibre needs, helping the gut remain...."regular" and asissts with weight loss, because it keeps you fuller for longer.

2/ Your daily vitamin update is essential

Immunityboosters - Daily drink - If you were to try and eat the amount of vitamins in this drink, you would need to consume enough fruit and vegtables equivalent to 5000 calories !!! This drink is jam packed full of goodness! Key ingredients that assist with detoxing are: milkthistle - for detoxification andliver repair, akaiberry - promotes weight lossand detoxification, guarana - promotes weight loss, fights fatigue,increases metabolism, yerbe mate, fights fatigue and good for weight loss.

Nutritionbar - geat snack -  low calorie snack thatsatisfies a sweet tooth craving, is filling and extremely nutritious – 15 vitamins and minerals. It is a fantastic alternative if you are beating off  sweet cravings or if you are all fruitand vegetabled out!

Proteinshakes - a training snack or meal replacement. My favourite!!! I personally use these when I am in gym training. You see muscledefinition and feel stronger, quicker**. I personally use them as a snack drinking one within an hour of working out – recommendation for muscle repairis 20g of protein within 60 minutes. Its a fantastic way to beatoff post work out hunger and even though I use as a snack, I will generally eat less inmy next meal. Some people use the protein shake as a meal replacement*** for breakfast and lunch when on a weight loss programme, followed by a light evening meal. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals and offers you 15% of your daily nutrition needs in one shake.

Take a look at this site, for more information on proteins shakes incorporated into your diet - http://www.energiefitness.net/protein-detoxification-diet/

** my findings in using the shakes in hand with the recommendatiosn below
*** a case study with an Arbonne client, reported a weight loss of 16 pounds over a four week duration, feeling full and well throughout.

For best results, I would recommend using these essential range products in conjunction with the Arbonne Detox Spa range, eating healthily, a limited alcohol intake and drinking plenty of water. The snippet information provided is relevant specifically to detoxing, however the products shown, have many other fantastic ingredients and health benefits, not listed here. A very happy and healthy 2013 everyone!

To find out more about the Arbonne Essentials or the Detox Spa ranges, please contact the consultant who shared this blog with you.

M is for May and Maya's Mercedes

"It does feel different when you get the car, it's true validation that the business works"

I wish life was like this every day. I am zooming down the M3 in my civvies on a "school day" listening to Radio 2 and I have a 10am breakfast meeting (or is that classed as elevenses), for which I am early. This is a small miracle in itself, I am always running 10 minutes behind, convinced that I'll make up the minutes somehow. However, on this occasion I am keen to arrive relaxed and in good time at my destination; I am meeting someone special for my May blog interview. I am feeling jubilant, yet envious, that my interviewee benefits from a business life like this everyday - breakfast meetings, lunches, coffees, wines, presentations, talking and mentoring; And very shortly, she will be doing all of that, in a spanking brand new white Mercedes, courtesy of Arbonne.

Now, most of my readers will be aware - I am an Arbonne consultant. Arbonne is a health, wellness and skincare business that is promoted via the network marketing model. It's an industry which can also be known as multi-level marketing or direct selling and still remains a largely unknown and, quite often, mis-understood business model. In recent years, the Internet and social media have revolutionised the old fashioned version of the industry and the business is currently being crammed to the rooftops with smart, savvy, professional women and men who are looking for a way off the corporate treadmill, or a flexible opportunity that does not shackle them to their desk for certain hours of the day.

Typically network marketing companies will offer different promotional levels within the business. In Arbonne, there are four titles; District Manager, Area Manager, Regional Vice President (RVP) and National Vice President (NVP). The playing field is flat, anyone can reach any title in the business and there are not a limited number of places at any one level. The promotion that everyone is fascinated by, whether they are in the business or not, is the promotion where "you get the white Mercedes". This is the RVP promotion to be precise. One receives a free monthly car allowance for a vehicle and there are two stipulations; It has to be a Mercedes; It has to be white. Since I started my business no one in our direct team has promoted and ordered the car. Until now. So I have requested a meet up with the new Regional Vice President Maya Queen, so that I could carry out my first Blog interview with an Arbonne RVP! So May is for Maya, and I want the inside knowledge on her Arbonne story. Jane Simpson (Area Manager), is hosting, so kitchen table at the ready, the tea and toast is on her.

When I arrive, Maya is coughing away and cuddled up in her poncho (on this chilly May morning?!). This is not quite what I expected. Is it stress? "No, I have run out of my immunity boosters" she laughs and then offers a little "region dance" to demonstrate that a throat croak isn't getting in the way of her pleasure at the recent promotion. "I didn't believe it until I saw my webstats this month! Even though I knew I had made it in April, until my title changed on line on the 10th May, it wasn't real." And the car? Maya scrunches up her forehead to reel off the make "the car's on order, its arriving this month, a C-Class Coupe with red leather interior and sun roof, I think it will be exciting all over again when it arrives."* What a long way she has come, since January 2009 when she started out.

Typically, a friend or associate will tell you about the Arbonne opportunity, but in Maya's case, she had a "sliding door moment" in a coffee shop in Weybridge, Surrey."I was with my two children Emma and James who were two and four at the time and my husband had popped next door to the Estate Agents. I was focused on keeping their hot chocolates upright rather than what was going on around me." Unbeknown to Maya, at the next table were two men and a woman having a business meeting and this chance seating arrangement, along with a curious son, was about to change the direction of her working life. "James started to chat with them, being the nosey thing that he is and the lady from the group (Aka RVP Sarah Mills) came round to see me, and said "I notice you have two young children, would you be interested in trying some pure safe and beneficial skin care for them?". What Sarah couldn't have known, is that Maya, was actually a skin care buyer for a large well known chain of stores. "I had reached for my business card, but then Sarah told me that you couldn't buy the product through a retail outlet, only through the Internet or an appointment based outlet, like a spa". Pausing for a bite of toast and a swig of tea Maya then laughs "....then she told me they also have an anti-ageing range, I was obviously looking a bit rough that day!"

Curiosity and Maya's open nature, meant she accepted the offer of a free trial of the renowned "gold bag" and the full baby range. "I still didn't get it, I assumed those two men, must be her bosses and that she was some form of posh Avon lady. I was also a bit sceptical because I had never heard of the product before". Loving the results of the gold bag (RE9 Advanced range), Maya read up on the information behind the products themselves, and there was something else that caught her eye. Toxin Awareness. " I didn't have a therapist background, so was unaware about actual ingredients within your standard beauty products. I was horrified to discover that many products contain so many toxins and that 60% of what you put on your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream". Arbonne doesn't contain such controversial and potentially harmful products, so when Sarah returned to collect her goods, Maya was busy throwing out her old skincare and was armed with her credit card and ready to order.

However. Sarah urged Maya to consider the business.

"I said to her - you're joking me aren't you? I work full time, I've got two small children, I want to work less not more!" However, Sarah's poignant words  "This is a home based, Internet driven, flexible working opportunity" got the cogs in her brain turning; "I thought to myself...could this be a way off the hamster wheel?" Maya did her due diligence by researching the industry, the company and attending Arbonne's opportunity meetings to get a feel for others in the business. "I discovered that the crux of the business, is re-directing your spend on beauty products into your own business, and then showing others how to do the same. There is no flogging door to door, no holding stock, it is simply about spreading the word via your network and via your network's network and so on. It is also incredibly tax efficient." With a sponsor and no boss, the opportunity made more and more sense to Maya and she remembers "I thought, what if it works? The benefits could be immense. Or, if it didn't work, well....I would be left with a bunch of products I liked using anyway." Maya also couldn't deny a nagging thought at the back of her head; "I would probably always wonder if I didn't try and what if someone came up to me in the future and tried to offer ME the gold bag. I would have been gutted." As the old saying goes, the things in life you regret are often the things you don't do, rather than the ones you do. Maya decided to jump in.

Typically when someone begins their Arbonne business, they hold invitation-only business launches with and to their network. In Maya's case she was actually abroad in the run up to her launch and only managed to send a blanket text out to everyone in her address book, telling them when to come round, and then hoped for the best. "Seriously, not only was I working full time, but I was also abroad a lot of the time! I literally had half an hour here and there to fit the business in." Laughing again, she then recalls "Then on the actual day of my launch - honestly, talk about unprofessional - people were due round at 8pm, and I got home fifteen minutes before it started because I was stuck on the M25! Not only that, but I had a big hole in my tights and I didn't have time to change!". Laughing at the memory of her cobbled together launch, I struggle to imagine Maya rushed and stressed. She is always cool, poised and unruffled - and definitely with no holes in her tights!

When Maya promoted to Area Manager within 6 months, she decided to take a break from her full time job, and then resigned altogether. With an inflexible employer declining her part time requests and seeing the long term growth potential of her Arbonne business, she chose lifestyle and Arbonne over the M25 and employment. It was a brave move, she must have had absolute belief in her future. "Absolutely, I wouldn't have resigned for hobby money, RVP was always the main goal." When Maya talks about her business, she does so with utter conviction and lots of passion. Always smiling, always available to offer advice, she seems to thrive on being an Arbonne Consultant "I love everything about this business. I love the fact it's not routine, I love being my own boss - no one dictates your timetable - you're round people's houses, the camaraderie, the people, team spirit, and the empowerment" She is on a roll now, the list isn't ending, there is nothing she doesn't love, particularly in comparison with employment. "I have always been salary safe before, with lots of pipe dreams of owning my own business." Well, the pipe dream has become a reality, because the car is on the way, and now Maya is looking to Nation as her next goal.

Of course, many people start Arbonne whilst they are engaged in other careers, but that's the beauty of the business, there are no set hours, you can work it around your life and not the other way round. Maya's journey has been at a steady pace, "I started Arbonne on 29 January 2009, I am not a rocket ship (the record to get to Region is just 12 weeks!) but I see myself as a Steady Eddie. The next goal is Nation, and however long it takes me - I will get there." But with Maya having a background in skincare, did this mean that she has the right credentials for this type of business? "No, not at all. I still had to get out my comfort zone, talk to people, practise what to say, make mistakes and ultimately be willing to learn. You don't wake up one morning and think - great I am doing Arbonne now, and I know all the answer. It is like any new "job" or industry! Honestly, if someone is willing to learn, then anyone can do this business - it is 100% learn able; I have all sorts of different personalities in my business a real eclectic mix, which just goes to show that not one size fits all."

"Team" is a word that Maya has used over and over whilst we discuss her experiences with Arbonne, which could be considered odd, given that it is your own business and you do not have employees. However, the point of network marketing, is that your growth is bred from helping others in your downline - to do what you are doing. Maya describes her promotion to region as if she has scaled a wall, and now has a rope, which she is throwing down to every member of her team and one by one she is going to help pull everyone up beside her. "You are of course creating a business for yourself, but you are also helping other people achieve their goals and dreams too. I know it sounds too good to be true...but that really is the beauty of it; You are creating a residual income, by helping other people build their businesses too."  Comparing it to the corporate world, and gesturing like a chicken, she exclaims how "it's very different, often in that environment the sharp elbows come out if someone is getting good, but Arbonne is the other way round, you want everyone to be great".

This is why Maya makes such a fabulous ambassador for this business; Down to earth, trustworthy, passionate and full of integrity. But what other traits does she possess that has helped her get where she is. "I have needed to demonstrate persistence, tenacity, consistency, always having my end goal in mind and always knowing I would never quit ... and in the meantime, the beauty about is, I am doing it with my people - your own team and culture. In fact, someone asked me yesterday whether I can retire now. What would I retire from - and why would I want to ? No more coffees and social chats? I love what I do, so why would I stop? And why would I not want to help my team get there too?"

How many of us can truly say that about our current employment status I wonder?

By this point, we have hoovered up the toast and tea, and the interview is reaching a natural close, and we can't help but lapse into a discussion about the people in our lives who we think would be fabulous in this business. Meanwhile, Maya puts the kettle on (this is literally business around a kitchen table) and jigging around in her poncho, she dramatically declares some further words of wisdom for my Dictaphone as a parting shot:

"Anyone who has a good feeling when they hear about this business, should just jump in and do it! And I'm telling you, if they knew what I know now, they definitely would! Also, you get tax relief from buying all your fantastic products. HA ! I actually get paid to wash!"**

I couldn't have concluded things better myself.

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To be part of the car celebrations:

Sunday June 10th 2012 2.30pm -  Maya Queens car presentation Woodlands Park Hotel, Woodlands Lane, Stoke D'Abernon, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3QB - Guests invited, so please RSVP via Facebook or email to attend (as my guest) or contact the consultant who shared this blog with you.
Saturday July 7th 2012 - Region party. Consultants only. Please RSVP to your RVP Maya Queen.

*Since writing this blog, aforementioned white Mercedes has arrived. The model in the pictures is not a fake, it is indeed, Maya Queen.
** To learn more about how you could be paid to wash, contact the consultant who shared this blog with you

Made up with March .... but arriving in April....

Made up with March

I know I know I know ...I am ridiculously late with this edition, and April is already here - and halfway over !!!  Naughty Jen! However, I hope it has been worth the wait, because I wanted to share a fabulous event with you and - as ever - more information on Arbonne. So this is a bumper blog this month!

So, Amalia (www.amaliakate.myarbonne.co.uk) had a second business launch* (with a twist) at the end of March! Inviting make up artist Amanda Oliver (www.amandaoliver.co.uk) and photographer Claire Shek (www.claireshekphotography.com) into the mix, we had a fabulous day with Amanda giving us all a make over using the Arbonne make up range, and with Claire "click clicking" in the background, photographing us looking glam! In between all the beauty activity we presented the business opportunity, tried other products, and sat in the sunshine, scoffing snacks and quaffing bubbly! What a fabulous way to spend a Sunday with a fabulous bunch of ladies! Take a look at some of Claire's snaps that capture the day nicely. The day has kick started Amalia's business off to a flying start!

Given the theme, I thought it was apt to feature the make up this month!

Amanda used "Soft blush" perfecting liquid 
foundation on me

Now, I am not proclaiming to be a skincare expert, but I know how my skin has changed since using the Arbonne ranges, and the make up is a big part of that. Before Arbonne I used a foundation that was supposed to help blemishes, but it was thick and gloopy and I could never get the colour juuuuust right. It left me shiny and self conscious by lunchtime and it definitely didn't help with spots. Now I use the Arbonne primer, concealer and foundation, as the base for the rest of my make up. So gone are the days of gloopy, poorly coloured foundations....there is a huge range of colours so you can pick a tone exactly right for you and it is incredibly light, gliding onto the skin, rather than spreading like butter. My "face" also holds up all day, so I can pop to the pub after work and and still have a nicely made up appearance. This has done wonders for my confidence. On a "don't take my word for it" note; A regular client said she went out clubbing, and went to the bathroom, expecting to have to re-apply, but her make up remained in tact, rather than her face having "slide down her couture"!

What is so special about Arbonne make up that sets it aside from other brands?
The brand evolved in consultation with top make up artists (think TOP TOP) and the outcome is"treatment make up". So all the good your skin is receiving from the FC5 or RE9 ranges, is further complimented by the make up. The range has been designed with optilight technology - a light reflective technology. This works in two ways. Firstly Light is diffused to create a soft focus effect, blurring imperfections so that the skin looks flawless from virtually every angle. Secondly, finely sized pigments allows the skin to breathe, meaning it is "as light as air" to wear. This comprehensive formula is combined with key botanics and contains no harmful chemicals.

So, lets take a look at some of the key products in the range;

The perfecting liquid foundations smooth out fine lines and imperfections and at the same time assists the skin's moisture level - the skin stays hydrated throughout the day, but the skin feels light rather than feeling like it has been caked on. The foundation allows skin to breathe and is non-comendogenic (doesn't block the pores which can create blackheads - anyone suffering from spots should always use non-comendogenic products). Containing a natural spf, the foundation is also helping protect the skin from sun damage. Often foundations can contain mineral oils, which basically coats the surface of de-hydrates and blocks the pores of, your skin.

Amanda used "expresso" perfecting
liquid foundation on Marge

Sheer tinted moisturisers offers a lighter coverage than the foundation, so great for even complexions or simply a weekend or perhaps a trip to the gym when you just want a little coverage. With similar qualities to the foundation, the skin will stay hydrated.
The Powder foundation coats the skin lightly offering flawless appearance and a healthy sheen and can be used on top of the tinted moisturisers and foundations.
Sheer pressed powder - good for touch ups throughout the day. Rose hip - antibacterial, helps with shininess
The Concealer helps to  mask imperfections/puffy eyes. Not oily or greasy and good around the eyes particularly if they are tired.
The Primer is a vitamin rich product and does what is says on the tin - it primes the skin for the application of the make up; It helps make up last and look flawless all day. Often described as liquid velvet on the skin, it helps the make up sit and settle and locks in the foundation. Green sea extracts helps nourish and re-generate the skin. Men also love using this (without the make up), for a nice flawless sheen.
Sheer glow highlighter adds radiance / glow to your skin - any skin tone. multi purposes. tiny bit on cheekbones, around lips, cleavage. OR - mix with your liquid foundation - apply all over as normal, gives even more luminosity. Dewy look to the skin. put on hand and compare with the other hand.
Blusher - Light weight with mineral infused pigments - so very concentrated, so brush, dust, apply.
Eye shadows, the pigments are botanically rich. long wearing.
Eye liners are creamy, soft, no wood, click and turn, but you can sharpen the edges of the liner with the detachable sharpener at the end. Non smudge, so stays in place all day.

Amanda used the Triple Action
Mascara on Amalia

Triple Action Mascara contains no chemicals and therefore conditions lashes rather than drying them out. As you get older lashes can get shorter and fall out more frequently, the chemicals often contained within beauty products will not help this. This product treats, conditions and protects lashes and from an appearance perspective, lengthens, refines, smudge resistant and long wearing. Anyone who has a condition that means lash loss, this is a good option. (Not waterproof - we would need to use chemicals to make waterproof).
Lash enhancer revitalises and lengthens the lashes. Containing botanticals that condition and thickens lashes, it also stimulates lash re-grow. Apply to base of the root twice daily, this product conditions and strengthens lashes and can even be used on sparse eyebrows too, to encourage re-grow.
Eye make up remover - oil free this conditions eyelids and lashes. Don't drag outwards. Circular movements to remove - wipe inwards and this will dissolve and break down the make up, and will then wash off easily.
Lipsticks - long wearing and do not seep onto the skin. Moisturises and conditions the lips, containing mango butter and alpine skullcap - and loaded with vitamins.

Note to clients - If you are an avid user of the Arbonne skincare, it is recommended that you use the make up too, to compliment rather than impair your skincare routine. Other branded make up - as with other skincare products -  can often contain parabens and chemicals. Parabens are preservatives, and highly controversial as being an oestrogen mimic and linked to breast cancers. Mineral oils coat the skin, blocks the pores and ages the skin; Arbonne products and make up are paraben and mineral oil free.

I hope you have enjoyed this little insight into the make up range, feel free to contact me for samples.

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This months PWP - Spend £45 (prior to usual discount) and you can buy the Arbonne Essentials Vitamin shots for just £25.00 - that is a 55% discount. Stuffed with high quality ingredients they are formulated using an integrative approach, the ingredients work together to increase nutrient uptake for optimum absorption and effectiveness.

Key Botanicals include: Black Pepper: Contains piperine, a constituent in black pepper that helps increase nutrient uptake so nutrients are better utilised by the body Milk Thistle: Contains silymarin, a constituent in milk thistle that supports liver health, which in turn supports production of the body's powerful, internally made antioxidant, glutathione Red Clover: Contains antioxidant isoflavones to help support bone health Green Tea: A great source of antioxidants Rhodiola: An adaptogenic herb that supports well being Chamomile: Helps soothes the stomach. All these ingredients are accompanied along with a stack of Vitamin C & D, Riboflavin, Selenium, Zinc, B12.
                                           
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As always, if you need any assistance with your renewal or general orders, don't hesitate to contact me. I hope you have enjoyed this months feature, as much as I enjoyed researching it! Enjoy the rest of April, and I will see you in May for another special edition feature. Here's a clue. White Mercedes! See you soon folks x

*For more information on how you can launch your own Arbonne business, you can contact me on naturaljen@myarbonne.co.uk.