My facial care philosophy has always been rooted in simplicity and quality. For a less-is-more routine, these 3 exquisitely handcrafted products are all you need to look and feel your best.
Thoughtfully curated for beautiful skin to include our nourishing cleanser, a nighttime micro-exfoliating toner, and our most beloved moisturizing face oil:
AM ROUTINE: BALM + OIL
PM ROUTINE: BALM + TONER + OIL
As always, if you have questions, simply comment below and one of our care team members will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
With gratitude and love always,
Belinda.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
skin care, skincare, how to get beautiful skin, how can I have beautiful skin
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Breast massage has been practiced for centuries and is a traditional healing technique that has stood the test of time. While it has been historically practiced for its cosmetic and sensual benefits, modern research has revealed that breast massage can have profound effects on the health and well-being of the entire body, particularly on the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin.
In most African countries, breast massage is used as a traditional health practice for a variety of purposes, including promoting breast health, enhancing breast size and firmness, and reducing breast pain and discomfort. Modern research has revealed that breast massage can have profound effects on the health and well-being of the entire body, particularly on the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin.
In the Yoruba culture of Nigeria, for example, breast massage is commonly used by midwives to help promote lactation and facilitate breastfeeding. Breast massage is also believed to help prevent and treat breast engorgement, mastitis, and other breast-related conditions.
In other African cultures, breast massage is used as part of beauty and wellness practices. In Egypt, for example, breast massage is used to enhance breast size and firmness. Similarly, in Morocco, breast massage is used as part of traditional beauty rituals to promote breast health and enhance the appearance of the breasts.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of breast massage, its effects on the skin, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform a daily breast massage that is therapeutic, supports your menstrual cycle, and holistically elevates your well-being.
Therapeutic breast massage has been shown to provide numerous benefits for overall health and well-being. Some of the key benefits of breast massage include:
A daily therapeutic breast massage can be a beneficial tool for menstrual care, as it can help to alleviate some of the common symptoms that occur during this time of the month. During menstruation, the breasts can become swollen and tender, which can be both uncomfortable and painful. A daily breast massage can help to relieve this discomfort by increasing blood flow to the area, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Furthermore, breast massage can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle by stimulating the production of hormones such as oxytocin, which plays a crucial role in the reproductive system. This hormone is responsible for promoting uterine contractions during childbirth and plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle as well. By stimulating the production of oxytocin, breast massage could help to regulate the menstrual cycle, making it more regular and reducing the occurrence of irregular periods.
In addition to these physical benefits, a daily therapeutic breast massage can also have a positive impact on one's mental and emotional well-being during menstruation. Menstruation can often be a stressful and emotionally taxing time, and the relaxation and self-care that a breast massage can provide may help to reduce stress and promote feelings of calmness and well-being.
Overall, a daily therapeutic breast massage can be a valuable tool for menstrual care, offering physical, emotional, and mental benefits that can contribute to a more comfortable and healthy menstrual experience.
Breast massage can also have specific benefits for individuals who have undergone surgical procedures such as lumpectomies or explants.
For example, breast massage can help improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling and discomfort following a surgical procedure. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing, massage therapy could be effective in managing breast cancer-related lymphedema, which is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment.
In addition, breast massage can help to break up scar tissue and adhesions that may develop after a surgical procedure has healed, which can improve range of motion and overall breast health.
It is important to note that the specific techniques and timing of breast massage following a surgical procedure may vary based on individual factors and the type of surgery performed. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness routine, particularly following a surgical procedure.
Breast massage can also be beneficial for postpartum care. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, breast massage was shown to reduce breast pain and improve breastfeeding outcomes in the early postpartum period.
Breast massage can also help to promote milk production and prevent engorgement, a condition in which the breasts become uncomfortably full of milk. According to the same study, breast massage can increase breast milk sodium levels, which may help to prevent and treat engorgement.
In addition, breast massage can be an effective way to reduce stress and promote relaxation in the postpartum period. This is particularly important given the significant physical and emotional changes that can occur during this time.
It is important to note that most of the clinical studies indicate breast massage is effective in reducing immediate pain for participants albeit the lack of a universal measurement tool.
Breast massage can have profound effects on the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin. The skin is a complex organ that is responsible for numerous functions, including protecting the body from the environment, regulating body temperature, and producing vitamin D. The neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin refer to the complex interactions between the skin, the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system which primarily drives our reproductive system.
Breast massage can stimulate these systems, which can have numerous benefits for the skin and the body as a whole. Some of the key effects of breast massage on the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin include:
Performing a daily breast massage is simple and can be done in just a few minutes. Here are the steps to perform a daily breast massage:
Therapeutic breast massage has numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, particularly for the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the skin. By performing a daily breast massage, you can improve circulation, reduce pain, enhance breast health, relieve stress, and promote skin health. Additionally, breast massage can help balance hormones in the body and improve immune function, making it a valuable addition to any self-care routine.
It is vital to seek the counsel of a healthcare professional before incorporating breast massage into your wellness regimen, as safety and individualized care are paramount. Additionally, taking care to utilize gentle pressure and avoiding any discomfort or pain during the massage is crucial for optimal results. Over time, the practice of a daily breast massage serves as a gratifying manifestation of self-care, a loving gift that reaps countless benefits for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, specifically in relation to the neuro-immune-cutaneous-endocrine functions of the body and the skin.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
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We hope our articles are a delight to read. If you enjoyed this, please share it with friends via the social links. We publish once a month, sometimes more. For more KOKOBÉRNA: head to kokoberna.shop (we ship worldwide and you earn reward dollars every time you shop), follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or view the journal archives. If you’d like to see a topic covered or have a burning question that needs an answer, please leave a comment below.
"In this article, we'll delve into the workings of the endocrine system, its impact on hair health, and how our revolutionary scalp care product, ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum, can restore your hair's natural beauty and vitality."
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have luscious, voluminous hair while others struggle with hair loss and thinning? The answer lies within the complex network of the endocrine system. This intricate system of glands and hormones controls numerous bodily functions, including hair growth.
Understanding the connection between the endocrine system and hair loss can help us address the root cause of this common concern. In this article, we'll delve into the workings of the endocrine system, its impact on hair health, and how our revolutionary scalp care product, ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum, can restore your hair's natural beauty and vitality.
The endocrine system is like a finely tuned symphony, with hormones acting as the skilled conductors of various bodily functions. This intricate network includes glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive glands, each responsible for secreting specific hormones that regulate different processes in our bodies.
One of the key hormones associated with hair health is dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is derived from testosterone through an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. While DHT plays a role in the development of male characteristics, it can also negatively impact hair follicles by shrinking them over time. This process is known as "miniaturization," and it eventually leads to hair thinning and hair loss.
Hair loss is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, and hormonal imbalances within the endocrine system are often the hidden culprits. Both men and women can be affected by androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition in which hair follicles become sensitive to DHT, leading to hair thinning and eventual hair loss.
Additionally, imbalances in thyroid hormones, particularly hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), can also lead to hair loss. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, and when thyroid hormone levels are off-balance, it can disrupt hair growth cycles.
Stress is another factor that impacts the endocrine system and can contribute to hair loss. During periods of chronic and persistent stress, the body releases cortisol, a stress hormone, which can interrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to hair shedding.
At ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™, we understand that healthy hair starts with a nourished scalp. Our mission is to unlock your hair's natural growth, density, and vitality with the power of nature. Introducing our groundbreaking scalp care product, ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum, which has been meticulously formulated with a blend of potent botanical ingredients, including biotin, protein peptides, rose water, argan oil, gokshura, aloe, and aromatherapeutic essential oils.
The Key Benefits of ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum
Q: How often should I use ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore?
A: For best results, we recommend using our serum at least three times a week. However, you can adjust the frequency based on your individual needs and hair condition.
Q: Is ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore suitable for all hair types?
A: Yes, our serum is formulated to benefit all hair types, regardless of texture or condition. Whether your hair is curly, straight, fine, or coarse, our serum can work wonders for you.
Q: Can I use ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore alongside other hair care products?
A: Absolutely! Our serum seamlessly integrates into any hair care routine and can be used in conjunction with your favorite shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
Now that you understand the crucial role of the endocrine system in hair health and the transformative power of ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum, it's time to take action. Say goodbye to dandruff, hair loss, and lackluster locks and embrace a future with beautifully revitalized hair. Visit our website and discover the secret to healthy, vibrant hair with ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum!
In conclusion, the endocrine system's impact on hair health is undeniable, and ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum offers a solution that goes beyond conventional hair care. Embrace the science of nature and transform your hair with our revolutionary serum today.
Remember, healthy hair starts from the roots. Take the first step toward beautiful, vibrant hair with ADÉ LÓRÍ RẸ™ Restore Herbal Scalp Serum!
May you be #kokobernabeautiful
hair loss endocrine system organic natural luxury scalp repair serum West Africa botanicals
]]>I hope this article finds you well and that you are prioritizing self-care and relaxation in your daily routines. Some of you have asked how to incorporate KOKOBÉRNA treatments to support a simple yet effective sleep ritual based on ancient philosophy of slow living and well-being.
The first product I would like to highlight is CLEANDETOX™ Fundamental Pranayama. This 100% organic herbal tisane is formulated with moringa, blessed thistle, gotu kola, dandelion, and red clover. The carefully chosen ingredients work synergistically to help detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and holistically support the immune system. This delicious and soothing tisane can be enjoyed before bed as part of your sleep ritual to help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
I would like to introduce our beloved HEALER’S GOLD™ Regenerating Face Oil. This 412-year-old formula infuses indigenous botanical seed oils and a high-vibrating blend of aromatherapeutic essential oils using an age-old proprietary biodynamic fermentation process. Designed to deeply calm and nourish beyond the skin, it also promotes cell regeneration and reduces multiple signs of premature skin aging. Incorporating this face oil into your evening skincare routine can help create a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation of skin before bedtime and while you sleep.
Lastly, for those who haven't yet had the privilege, ÈDÍYÈ ÍDÉM™ Opulent Saffron Beauty Elixir is the epitome of a decadent home spa experience. This multi-functioning body, hair, and massage oil contains an opulent blend of saffron broth infusion, botanical seed oils, and restorative herbs that work synergistically to leave skin and hair looking and feeling refreshed, invigorated, and revitalized. Massaging with oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Apply a little bit on feet and legs as a nighttime massage ritual to help relax the body and promote restful sleep or use after every shower to nourish and revitalize the skin and hair every day.
Incorporating these products into your sleep ritual can help promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep sense of well-being. We believe that prioritizing self-care and relaxation is essential for maintaining good health and happiness, and we hope that these products will help you on your journey to better sleep and self-care.
What makes KOKOBÉRNA different is that every product is imbued with a very strong intent, an intent to holistically nurture way beyond the surface of the skin. We create effective products, rooted in ethics and integrity, that promote palpable biological and emotional change in those that experience them – both through touch and smell.
Because an incredible 75% of our emotions are generated by what we smell, what we put on our skin directly nourishes and calms our heart - the center of emotional wellbeing, energy, and vitality - and holistically supports the interdependent functions of the body. Few other brands intuitively work with this profound and interconnected knowingness of body + mind + heart + spirit™.
Every cream, oil, essence, supplement, fragrance, and home care product, designed by KOKOBÉRNA, intends to nourish the deep and sacred essence of the individual and their environment, providing a path to peace and inner joy.
Luxury organic herbal tisane for sleep ritual, sanctified face oil for relaxation, saffron beauty elixir for better sleep, ancient traditions for better sleep, natural ingredients for sleep support, body, hair, and massage oil for relaxation, regenerating face oil for rejuvenation, proprietary fermentation process for skincare, indigenous African herbs for skincare, African luxury skin care brand, aromatherapeutic essential oils for sleep
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As we enter the new month of May and fast approaching the mid-year point, we are enjoying sitting in moments of Stillness and allowing the quiet voice inside of us to rise. In today’s technologically cultural world, we most oftentimes aren’t offered a great deal of Stillness. And so, we are invited to guard that in ourselves, to create those moments of Stillness for ourselves as it can never be handed to us. It is why many people find Stillness through a meditation practice, or a quiet walk amongst nature, for 15, 30, 45 minutes or more.
If hearing this idea of Stillness seems foreign to your body-mind, it simply means you haven’t experienced Stillness for a while and over time, lack of Stillness can be destabilizing if we do not have intimate access to that slower gear that calms in moments of need. Stillness speaks, and it has a lot of WISDOM to share with us, but that WISDOM won’t easily come to us if we are always, and constantly, keeping ourselves busy and stimulated.
We are often so highly engaged that we don’t have the moment for The Quiet voice inside us to be able to say “You are tired, rest a few hours – you have some sadness that you need to let go of that you have been carrying around, but it is hidden underneath your busyness. Give me your attention for an hour or two and I will let it move through you and I will release it”. This wise voice. It is inside each one of us and there for all of us to access but very few are trained or have learned to engage with it so choose whatever method works best for you to let yourself hear your own inner voice, the still wise voice inside you, and not necessarily the mental chatter or the endless thoughts. These tend to get more active the more stimulated we are which means, we give ourselves less to Stillness, to moments of calm and quiet.
So, if you have not learned to cultivate a practice of Stillness, this is no longer just a good thing to do but a vital thing to do; to allow your inner WISDOM to holistically support your inner peace, your well-being, your skin health, your gut health, your emotional health, your reproductive health, your heart health, your brain health, your vitality.
Leveling up your WISDOM is literally going to look like a focused improvement of self and life. You may suddenly, out of Stillness, have the energy, the will, and the lack of fear to go and study something that you feel is going to enhance your life or perhaps there is a training that you want to take to support you on your next path or perhaps becoming an active member of our primary care club that integrates slow living, nutrition, wellness, and functional medicine, using a hospitality-forward approach. This leveling up of your WISDOM energy is going to take away many of the barriers so it might be that you suddenly find yourself in a position where you can financially afford to do “the thing” finally or that you can take the time you need to do it and maybe it’s been a dream for quite some time. But leveling up your WISDOM is going to be even more supported in the aftermath of Stillness. You might find yourself suddenly curious, extra studious, so that you can absorb what it is you want to absorb. It may just be that you are currently leveling up your WISDOM around the areas of personal growth, health, well-being, and spirituality so that you can become a better version of yourself ultimately to better serve the world and stand in your power.
Because the truth is we are all serving each other all the time, consciously and unconsciously, and when we are consciously able to serve, we feel very connected to each other. To our purpose. To this group of animals and humans interconnected with Mother Earth in a deeper knowing rather than feeling trapped and disconnected because of individualism that so many of us have been conditioned into.
Leveling up your WISDOM is going to carry with it a great deal of energy that supports you in taking some deep dives into areas that you feel passionate about or that you want to learn on an intuitive level. This means that The Universe will put you in positions with people and in situations where you get to level up your WISDOM. So, as you hone your practice of Stillness, that energy is going to be strong because the inner Stillness needs a higher mind, it needs a WISDOM that is connected to the body-mind prepared.
We hope you are doing okay and hanging in there because lately it is becoming more vital that we all find ways to reset ourselves, recenter ourselves, reconnect to the things that light us up as we go through these massive waves of transformation, to be more discerning about who what and where we are going to invest our energy. To find and cultivate inner peace.
As always, we are here for you and know that we love you.
Questions? Comments? Leave them below!
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
Excerpted and inspired by a talk with Lee Harris, The Portal
As we celebrate souls of our times and preserve their beauty in paint and color we must go to the source of portraiture and learn, why did ancient Egyptians demand accurate skin tones? What can we learn from portrait masters in history to help us transform portraits of today’s people into timeless art? Who are the masters we must be inspired by, look at, in order to create meaningful and eternal portraits? Why do the gods of India have different skin tones? What were the ideas that became the blue prints of all timeless portraits? How should today’s portrait painters look at people?
This book offers answers to these questions and more — the wisdom of the ages for all portrait lovers. If all you read is CHAPTER THREE, the way you look at portraits will change forever. You will understand the minds and legacies behind timeless portraits. You will be enlightened forever.
SAMUEL ADOQUEI a Ghanaian-born American is the author of Origin of Inspiration and How Successful Artists Study, both Strand Books No. 1 bestsellers. Mr. Adoquei is the first and only African in Western art to teach in all of the art academies in New York City, and the artist served on the faculty at the National Academy of Design for twenty five years. He is the founder of the Fine Arts Atelier of Union Square. The artist’s paintings have appeared on the covers of books, magazines and newspapers, including a New York Times article about his painting, “The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King.” In 2019 a short documentary film about the artist, “The Unseen Beauty” directed by Gabriel De Urioste, was screened nationwide, including at the Manhattan Film Festival, the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
Adoquei’s artworks have been exhibited at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C., and at other galleries and museums. The artist’s portraits are in the collections of The Harvard Club, New York City; Columbia University, New York City; Elliot Museum, Stuart,Florida; The National Museum of Naval Aviation, Pensacola, Florida; The Long Island Museum of Art; Châteaux Pecany, Bergerac, France; and in many other private collections. Recently,the city of Pomport, Bergerac, France awarded Mr. Adoquei the City’s Medal of Honor for his contribution and dedication to the arts and culture of the area. In 2011, Mr. Adoquei was invited to join the Board of Advisors of the Portrait Society of America. The artist also serves on the executive board of the American Portrait Society.
Gift a copy of Sam's books for yourself or for a loved one. We've read all of them and can't recommend highly enough!
May you be #kokobernabeautiful
all images © Sam Adoquei — all rights reserved. | https://www.samadoquei.com/books/
]]>The issue of microplastics, nano plastics and microbeads (i.e. jojoba beads) in cosmetic, beauty, and personal care products has become a growing concern in recent years. With plastics being ubiquitous in our environment, it can be challenging to avoid them even when trying to live a healthy and sustainable wellness lifestyle. Microplastics are present in the air we breathe, the water we drink, in our bloodstream, and even in fetal tissue possibly causing mutations in DNA. So yes, while we cannot completely avoid plastic, the human health impact for personal care is of key concern because many of these products are used directly on skin, hair, lips, and eyes.
In 2022, the Plastic Soup Foundation conducted a study on the presence of microplastics in more than 7,000 different cosmetic and personal care products in Europe. Results presented in its report “Plastic: The Hidden Beauty Ingredient” showed that 9 out of 10 major brands in the EU still used microplastics and nano plastics in products, accounting for 87% of products on the market under these top brand portfolios.
In the US and worldwide, far too many beauty and personal care companies still use microplastics in product formulations, which is unacceptable given the environmental and human health impacts, says the founder of marine conservation NGO Plastic Soup Foundation.
At KOKOBÉRNA, our results-driven products and spa treatments go hand-in-hand with the highest standards of natural and ethical integrity. We feel it is important to bring awareness and discuss ways to reduce the presence of microplastics in our daily skincare routine. Across all product ranges and categories, microplastics exist, therefore, this article will focus on facial cleansers, a critical first step for healthy, glowing skin.
When it comes to all cleansers, it is important to be aware of the ingredients and recommend choosing products that do not contain microplastics. As of this writing, Clinique's Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm contains polyethylene and PEG-5 glyceryl triisostearate as the 5th and 6th microplastic ingredients which may not have many beneficial long-term effects on the skin. Another example is Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm, which claims to be free from polyethylene on their website, but still contains a derivative of microplastics, such as ammonium methacrylate copolymer and other acrylates including methoxy PEG-15 methacrylate copolymer in addition to PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, and PEG-10 isostearate. This highlights the importance of educating our customers and patients so that they can carefully examine product claims and ingredient lists to ensure that microplastics are truly absent in the products they are using, if they so choose.
Another case study is the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm which is marketed as clean beauty compared to some of the above-mentioned products, although it still contains some PEGs, such as PEG-6 caprylic/capric glycerides, polyethylene, PEG-8 beeswax, and PEG-60 almond glycerides. It is essential to note that the presence of collagen highlighted as a key ingredient on personal care products does not necessarily mean that it will increase collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin where fibroblasts need to be stimulated in order to produce collagen and elastin. This is why it is important to have a thorough understanding of the ingredients in skincare products and how they truly function, topically or .
Some of the worst culprits in terms of microplastics in cleansers are Cerave’s Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm which contains polyethylene as a 2nd ingredient among many other microplastic variants and Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Balm which, in addition to microplastic ingredients, contains soybean oil (a potential hormone and endocrine disruptor) for pre-menopausal women.
On the other hand, there are cleansing balms that could be considered better options although not for every skin type. For example, Naturopathic’s Manuka Cleansing Balm is specifically formulated for dry and mature skin that may have difficulty producing its own oils. It contains oils and waxes, as well as sugar-based humectants that draw moisture to the skin, making it a suitable choice for dry, mature skin.
However, it may not be the best option for breakout-prone, sensitive, dry or oily skin, as sugar-based products can potentially increase acne-causing bacteria for certain skin types and those who suffer from autoimmune skin disorders.
In addition to choosing suitable cleansers and other personal care products, it is crucial to be aware of the ingredients to avoid as much as you can. Common microplastic ingredients to look out for in cosmetics and personal care products include:
Nylon-12 (polyamide-12)
Nylon-6
Polyethylene
Polyamides
Polyacrylate
Polypropylene
Polystyrenes
Polyurethanes
Polybutylene terephthalate
Polyethylene isoterephthalate
Polyethylene terephthalate
Polymethyl methylacrylate
Polypentaerythrityl terephthalate
Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon)
Polypropylene terephthalate
PEGs (polyethylene glycol) followed by a number which indicates the molecular weight
Acrylates copolymer
Allyl stearate/vinyl acetate copolymers
Ethylene/propylene/styrene copolymer
Ethylene/methylacrylate copolymer
Ethylene/acrylate copolymer
Butylene/ethylene/styrene copolymer
Styrene acrylates copolymer
Trimethylsiloxysilicate (silicone resin)
Siloxanes, and
Silicones, such as methicone, dimethicone, and trimethicone.
All these microplastics are often used as emulsifiers, conditioning agents, texturizing agents, and ingredient enhancers in beauty, makeup, hair care, and other personal care products to enhance product performance and drive ingredients deeper into the skin.
Most of the plastic ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products contain nondegradable polymers. These plastics may take hundreds of years to completely degrade via oxidative or photodegradation routes. Replacing plastic ingredients with biodegradable plastics such as Polylactic acid (PLA) is not advisable as PLAs only degrade when subjected to high temperatures in industrial settings. Knowledge is emerging about the ubiquitous occurrence of microplastics throughout the world’s marine environment and their potential for secondary health impacts via the food chain, including for us humans who consume seafood. This coupled with emerging knowledge about the toxic effects such particles have on biological organisms including mammals has led to concern and actions to monitor and reduce microplastics emissions.
Remember, like removes like. If you are looking for something to dissolve layers of sunscreen, water-proof makeup, silicones, sweat, completely avoiding microplastics in skin care is going to be incredibly difficult. One common microplastic ingredient found in clean beauty products is PEG-20. This microplastic is often considered cleaner due to its heavier molecular weight, which means it does not penetrate the skin as easily as other types of PEGs do.
If you are looking to completely avoid microplastics in your skincare routine, it is essential to be vigilant about checking the ingredient lists of beauty, cosmetic, and personal care products. It is also important to note that even cleansing oils, which are often used as an alternative to traditional foaming cleansers, can contain microplastics depending on the percentage and types of oils used. Some cleansing oils may also contain saponified oils that create a foamy or milky texture when wet. To truly avoid microplastics, look for cleansing oils that use oils in their complete and natural state.
For those with sensitive, reactive, or dry mature skin who do not wear heavy makeup, our bestselling DIVINE ORIGIN™ Nourishing Cleansing Balm, made with nutritive West African botanical oils, skin mimicking waxes, and homeopathic essences, gently removes sunscreen, grime, dirt, and most makeup thoroughly. Sanctified with the intent to soothe, soften, and cleanse your face without stripping the skin’s oils which helps to maintain the integrity of the neurosensory lipid barrier. A wonderful prep to further increase the therapeutic effects of our facial care treatments and serums. For best results, use daily morning and evening.
For heavy makeup wearers, we recommend removing waterproof eye makeup first with an eye makeup remover before cleansing twice. Skin looks bright, vibrant, and glowing not to mention plump, juicy, and soft. Our cleansing balm is free from sugar-based ingredients, is completely free from microplastics and its variants, and has been voted by Byrdie as the best splurge that offers a lightweight, rich consistency and leaves skin feeling soft and deeply hydrated reducing the need for excessive use of moisturizers.
In conclusion, microplastics are commonly found in 99% of cosmetic and personal care products, including those marketed as clean beauty. Despite efforts to promote clean beauty and avoid hidden ingredients, completely avoiding microplastics in skincare products can be challenging especially for those who wear heavy waterproof makeup.
It is crucial for our patients and customers to be informed and diligent about checking ingredient lists to avoid microplastics if they so desire. Our therapeutic spa treatments provide options available for those looking for microplastic-free skincare products, however, it is important to take ownership, thoroughly research, and vote with your dollars by choosing companies, such as KOKOBÉRNA, that do not “ingredient wash” and create the highest-quality handcrafted products that align with your personal care needs and sustainable wellness lifestyle choices.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful
RESEARCH
https://www.kokoberna.com/products/divine-origin-balm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microplastics
https://www.byrdie.com/best-cleansing-balms-4797728#toc-best-splurge-kokoberna-divine-origin-cleansing-balm
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html#:~:text=Most%20plastics%20in%20the%20ocean,through%20waterways%20into%20the%20ocean.
http://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/21754/PlasticinCosmetics2015Factsheet.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/drinkingwater/microplastics.html
https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/microplastics
https://www.beatthemicrobead.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Plastic-TheHiddenBeautyIngredients.pdf
]]>Well, hello there, and thank you for entrusting us with your natural organic skin care needs. In this blog post, our goal is to share the secret to layering skin care products that will help you achieve a healthy, glowing complexion; the KOKOBÉRNA Way.
Layering your skin care products is essential for a few reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to target specific skin concerns and provide the skin’s neuron-sensory microbiome with the necessary nutrients and hydration it needs to thrive. When you layer different products, each one can work together to provide a multitude of benefits, such as hydrating, firming, brightening, and protecting the skin.
Secondly, layering skin care products can help maximize their effectiveness. By using a combination of products that have different textures and consistencies, you can ensure that each product is absorbed by the skin and not just sitting on the surface. This can help improve the efficacy of each product and ensure that you are getting the most out of your skin care routine.
Lastly, layering skin care products can help create a barrier of protection on the skin. By applying a variety of products, you can help strengthen the skin's natural barrier, increase moisture retention, and protect it from external aggressors such as pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions.
Generally speaking, and for all skin types, the best way to layer your KOKOBÉRNA skin care products for optimal results, is as follows:
Remember to give each product a few seconds to absorb into the skin before moving on to the next step. Layering your products in this order will help to ensure that each one can penetrate the skin and provide the benefits it was designed to offer. Pausing in between layering your skin care products allows for a grounding experience that elevates the day.
That's a great question! The order and types of products you use can differ between your morning and nighttime skin care routines, as your skin has different needs at different times of the day.
The KOKOBÉRNA Way
Finish your routine with our active botanical peptide-infused facial mist, which will help to fully lock-in moisture, offers anti-aging benefits, leave a healthy glow, as well as set your makeup if you're wearing any. Hold the mist about 8-10 inches from your face and spritz it all over face and neck, keeping your eyes closed.
The KOKOBÉRNA Way
As you can see, the main differences between morning and nighttime routines are the types of products used, with morning routines focusing on protection and hydration, and nighttime routines focusing on repair and rejuvenation. By using different products and following a specific order for each routine, you can maximize the efficacy of your skin care products and achieve healthy, glowing skin.
We are sorry to hear that you are having a challenging time managing your acne-prone skin. A core philosophy of KOKOBÉRNA skin care products is skin repair. We’ve found a minimalist skin care routine with a focus on gentle, non-irritating products is often best for acne-prone skin. Here is a recommended morning and nighttime routine that can help repair your skin for the long-term.
For Acne-Prone Sensitive Skin
With consistent use of our exquisitely formulated skin repair products, the need to cover skin with makeup becomes less.
For Acne-Prone Skin
For Acne-Prone Skin
It is important to note that when treating acne-prone skin, less is often more. Overloading the skin with too many products or using harsh ingredients can make acne worse by stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing irritation. By keeping the routine simple, gentle, and consistent, you can help your skin repair and maintain healthy, beautiful looking skin for a lifetime.
To summarize, the secret to layering skin care products to address most skin concerns is to follow a consistent routine, use products that are suited for your skin type, and layer them in the correct order. Again, here are the general steps to follow:
When layering products, it's important to use products that are suited for your skin type and to avoid overloading the skin with too many products at once. Following a consistent routine and giving each product time to absorb before applying the next is key to achieving optimal results. Additionally, listening to your skin and adjusting your routine as necessary can help address any concerns that arise.
We recommend scheduling a virtual consultation with a KOKOBÉRNA Skin Expert to assess your skin's progress and make any necessary adjustments to your skin care routine. The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary depending on your individual needs and recommend a follow-up appointment after your first 4-6 weeks is a good starting point.
During the follow-up appointment, a Skin Expert can assess the effectiveness of your current routine and make any necessary adjustments. This may involve changing the products you're using, adjusting the order in which you use them, or modifying the frequency of use. By doing so, we can help ensure that your skin is continuing to improve and that your routine is optimized for your specific needs.
Additionally, skin concerns can change over time and with the change of seasons, so it's important to periodically reassess your routine to ensure that it's still effective. Scheduling regular follow-up appointments can help you stay on track with your skin care goals and ensure that you're getting the most out of your routine.
Suffice it to say, scheduling a virtual skin care consult is a great way to receive personalized guidance and support, stay accountable to your skin care routine, and ensure that your skin is healthy and always looking its best.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
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We hope our articles are a delight to read. If you enjoyed this, please share it with friends via the social links. We publish once a month, sometimes more. For more KOKOBÉRNA: head to kokoberna.shop (we ship worldwide and earn reward dollars every time you shop), follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or view the journal archives. If you’d like to see a topic covered or have a burning question that needs an answer, please leave a comment below.
]]>Cooking is one of the most grounding and satisfying practices I know of. Might be because I grew up in a culture where food is communal, it is family, it is heritage, it is wisdom.
When the world outside seems overwhelming, or I'm feeling a little off, sometimes just placing my hands on raw ingredients and working with spice and temperature to create something nourishing brings me into a state of much-needed connectedness.
When we are in this mindset, we begin to notice deeper meaning in the process. In this place of enlightened motion, seemingly mundane ingredients suddenly begin to meld revealing their subtle secrets.
Soup plays a significant role in African culture and cuisine. In many African countries, soup is a staple food that is cooked and consumed on a daily basis. It is often prepared using locally-sourced ingredients, such as vegetables, grains, legumes, and meats.
In addition to its cultural significance, soup is also valued for its health benefits in many African communities. Soup is often seen as a nourishing and healing food that can help boost immunity, aid digestion, and provide essential nutrients.
Overall, soup is an integral part of African culture and cuisine, and it continues to be an important part of daily life for many people throughout the continent.
Similar to our ancestors, at KOKOBÉRNA, we are currently exploring modern food culture using easily accessible ingredients in this iconic recipe for Soothing Lentil + Carrot Soup with Lime. Adapted from Divya Atler's "What to eat for how you feel," this recipe is not only straightforward, delicious, and superbly nourishing, its protein- and iron-rich content is sure to be a crowdpleaser during sluggish winter days.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the coriander and cumin seeds until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Cool and grind them to a fine powder in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and set aside.
In a large pot, combine the lentils and 4 cups of water in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a full boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. Remove any froth from the surface (this will reduce the gassiness of the lentils).
Add the ground coriander and cumin, the carrots, turmeric, bay leaves, green Thai chile, ginger, and ghee or olive oil and mix well. Bring to a boil again, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer until the lentils and carrots are soft and cooked through, about 25 minutes.
Turn off the heat and leave the pot uncovered to allow the soup to cool down a bit. Remove the bay leaves and add the salt, olive oil, and black pepper.
Pour the soup into a blender and blend to a more chunky or smooth consistency; you may also add more warm water if you like - in this case, adjust the salt to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime slices.
Now, let's look at the benefits of each ingredient as it pertains to improving digestion, immunity, gut health, skin health, and reproductive health:
Coriander seeds: Coriander seeds contain antioxidants that can help improve digestion, relieve gas, and prevent inflammation in the gut. They may also help with hormonal balance, which can be beneficial for reproductive health.
Cumin seeds: Cumin seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with digestive issues and boost immunity. They may also help with lactation for new mothers.
Red lentils: Lentils are high in protein and iron, which can be beneficial when recovering from surgery, illness, childbirth, or a tendency to have cold fingers and feet due to existing anemia conditions. They also contain fiber, which can help with digestion.
Carrots: Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is important for skin health and immune function. They also contain fiber, which can help with digestion.
Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with healing after surgery or illness. It may also help with skin health and immune function.
Bay leaves: Bay leaves contain antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with digestion and immune function.
Green Thai chile: Spicy foods like green Thai chiles may help with digestion by increasing the production of digestive enzymes. They also contain vitamin C, which can boost immunity.
Ghee or olive oil: Both ghee and olive oil contain healthy fats that can help with absorption of nutrients and support overall health.
Himalayan sea salt: Himalayan sea salt contains minerals that can support digestive health and improve hydration.
Freshly ground black pepper: Black pepper contains a compound called piperine that can help with nutrient absorption and improve digestion.
Chopped fresh ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help with digestion and reduce nausea. It may also help with lactation for new mothers.
Chopped fresh cilantro leaves: Cilantro may have anti-inflammatory properties and can help with digestion.
In summary, this soup is a great choice for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike and especially when recovering from surgery, illness, or childbirth because it contains protein and iron-rich lentils, as well as a variety of ingredients that can support digestion, immune function, and overall health. The coriander seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, bay leaves, green Thai chile, ginger, black pepper, and cilantro can all help with digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties that may be particularly beneficial during recovery. The carrots and limes also provide important vitamins and minerals that support skin health and immune function. Finally, the ghee or olive oil in the recipe provides healthy fats that support overall health and nutrient absorption. All in all, this soup is a nutritious and delicious choice for anyone looking to support their recovery and overall health. To feel grounded. To warm you up and brighten your table on a cold and gloomy day.
This recipe was adapted from Divya Alter's book, "The New Ayurvedic Kitchen: What to Eat for How You Feel". The original recipe called for beets and is titled Red Velvet Soup. However, we at KOKOBÉRNA love substituting carrots for beets in this recipe. Beets generally contain more iron than carrots. A half-cup serving of cooked beets contains approximately 0.7 milligrams of iron, while a half-cup serving of cooked carrots contains approximately 0.3 milligrams of iron. However, it is important to note that the amount of iron in beets and carrots can vary depending on factors such as the variety of the vegetable, how it is prepared, and the soil it is grown in. Additionally, the bioavailability of the iron in these vegetables can be influenced by other dietary factors, such as the presence of vitamin C or other nutrients that can enhance or inhibit iron absorption. Either vegetable you choose, may you be nourished.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
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We hope our articles are a delight to read. If you enjoyed this, please share it with friends via the social links. We publish once a month, sometimes more. For more KOKOBÉRNA, head to kokoberna.shop, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or view the journal archives. If you’d like to see a topic covered or have a burning question that needs an answer, please leave a comment below.
US Department of Agriculture. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Legacy Release. Available at: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/. Accessed on 14 February 2023.
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In today’s hustle-driven world—and especially during the collective hard times we’ve had lately—it can be challenging to prioritize oneself and know what we each need individually to feel centered.
If you’re used to tying your worth to your bank account/productivity/career, for example, you might be coping by working yourself close to burnout. Or you may feel entirely shut down and numbed out, and not sure how to tap into your feelings.
There’s a reason that when we fly, we’re told to put on our own oxygen mask before helping anyone else. We can’t offer much to anyone when we don’t take care of ourselves first! Slowing down to offer yourself love, care, and compassion amid a not-so-perfect world helps build resilience, combat burnout, and can help us feel calmer, safer, and more centered as we navigate life’s ups and downs.
Learning how to practice self-love and self-care is just that: a practice. Self-love rituals are activities or practices that help promote self-care, self-acceptance, and overall well-being.
Social media may have us thinking that all we need to do is run a bath and throw a face mask on and we’re good to go. While self-care and self-love certainly can involve facials and hot soaks, there are so many other ways to be good to ourselves beyond that! A self-care and self-love practice will look different based on everyone's needs and interests, and it will probably involve (at least at first) experimenting with different things to see what sticks.
Here are some examples of my daily self-love practices to start with:
Remember, self-love is not a destination and instead it is an evolving journey into well-being and wholeness. It is my hope that by sharing a few of my rituals, you can select one or two and incorporate them into a daily self-love routine that’s unique to you. Doing this helps develop a positive and loving relationship with yourself as we transition this season of love together. 🤍
May you be #kokobernabeautiful
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We hope our articles are a delight to read. If you enjoyed this, please share it with friends via the social links. We publish once a month, sometimes more. For more KOKOBÉRNA, head to kokoberna.shop, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or view the journal archives. If you’d like to see a topic covered or have a burning question that needs an answer, please leave a comment below.
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Cleansing and makeup removal are likely the most tedious steps in your skincare routine—but find a great cleansing balm, and suddenly you’ll trade several minutes of harsh scrubbing for just a moment of gentle cleansing. Yep, you heard that right—you can combine two steps in one (kind of), to painlessly remove a day’s worth of makeup and grime. While most skin types will still want to go in with your usual face wash after using a cleansing balm, these formulas make the entire getting unready process so much easier.
But just like other skincare products, not all cleansing balms are the same. So to help you discover which one is best for you, we put dozens of popular formulas to the test and evaluated them based on consistency, oiliness, hydration, cleansing ability, and appearance. And ahead, we’re sharing the formulas that our testers rated the highest.
HOW WE TESTED & REVIEWED
Each tester used one cleansing balm at home over a period of two weeks. After reading the manufacturer's instructions, they used the products as directed to remove makeup, SPF, and dirt at the end of the day. They gently massaged it across their skin, wetting their fingertips to emulsify the formulas and effectively remove makeup where applicable. For the purpose of this test, they did not follow up with another cleanser as part of a double cleansing routine, although this is often recommended. After using their cleansing balm, each tester evaluated and rated it based on consistency, oiliness, hydration, cleansing ability, and appearance, and those that scored highest appear on this list.
OUR BEST SPLURGE PICK: DIVINE ORIGIN™ Cleansing Balm
Most true cleansing balms are just that—balms with somewhat solid consistencies. But think of this one as a middle ground between a traditional balm and a cleansing oil. It has a rich, oily texture that works to break down makeup, remove dirt and impurities, while hydrating and soothing the skin. The formula contains West African botanical seed oils as well as flower essences to calm and support the skin barrier while offering makeup removal and moisturizing benefits. It also comes in a bottle with a pump, making it ideal for those who prefer not to stick their fingers into their skincare products.
Byrdie's tester adored this product, saying, “I could go much longer without a moisturizer compared to other cleansing products that make your skin dry after you use them. In addition to not stripping her skin of essential moisture, it effectively removed her face makeup, was easy to apply, and came in mess-free packaging."
- written by ALYSSA KAPLAN
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Skin cycling is a term used to describe the process of rotating or switching between different skincare products on a regular basis. Some people rotate their products seasonally, while others switch up their routine every few weeks or months. It is important to note that skin cycling should be done under the guidance of a skin expert to ensure that the products you are using are appropriate for your skin type and that the rotation schedule is safe for your skin.
Most importantly, a consistent skincare routine which includes thorough yet gentle cleansing, exfoliation, moisturizing and sun protection, regardless of the products you are using, is the focus of skin cycling.
In Part I of this series, we discuss skin cycling for winter care.
During the winter, the skin is exposed to the changes from warm central heating to cold harsh, dry weather conditions that can cause dryness, flaking, and irritation. As a result, skin cycling for winter care may involve using different products or adjusting the frequency of use to provide extra protection and help keep your skin feeling hydrated, plump, and healthy.
One way to skin cycle for winter care is to treat the skin like you do your clothing, in layers. A correct order is as follows: cleanse, tone (acid/ mist or both), serum, moisturizer (oil/ balm/ cream), and SPF. Start with less and if your skin is still absorbing products, keep going. However, be mindful of products that contain silicone, as they don’t always play well with other products and have the potential to feel grim and result in makeup piling. Also, avoid alcohol-heavy products where the main ingredient is alcohol.
Another tip is not to over-cleanse the skin till it’s squeaky clean and to reduce using electronic facial cleansing brushes as overuse tends to damage the delicate skin barrier over time. Damaged skin barrier from overuse of electronic cleansing brushes tend to increase susceptibility to redness in lighter skin tones and pigmentation on medium or darker skin tones. If you love a foaming face wash, try to change to a cleansing milk, a cleansing cream, or a cleansing balm for acne/psoriasis/rosacea/reactive skin conditions when the weather is cold. You’ll feel a difference in your skin immediately where it feels more hydrated, calm, and supple; as healthy skin should be.
Exfoliating can also be incorporated into your face and body care routine during the winter, as the skin tends to be more delicate and sensitive yet dull looking. Therefore, topical acidic exfoliants in liquid form are far more effective for face care than scrubs. Topical liquid exfoliants tend to be acidic formulas primarily consisting of hydroxy acids, because the healthy state of the skin barrier is acidic and acid-based toners are crucial for keeping mature skin exfoliated, smooth, dewy, and because it reduces trans epidermal water loss on skin, further improves penetration of serums and moisturizers. Here at KOKOBÉRNA, we believe less impact to aging skin is paramount and recommend using topical acidic exfoliants in liquid form every night for the first seven days and cycling it into your routine every other night for superb winter care.
With frequent use, you will notice the effects of UV photoaging are reversed, wrinkles are improved, skin elasticity is dewy and plump, skin surface is smooth as glass, skin tone begins to appear more even, and hydration is restored.
Not everyone can use or wants to use liquid acids. For those of you that prefer a physical exfoliant for face care, we suggest gentle, naturally sourced, and finely ground granular scrubs and polishes that do not cause microscopic tears on sensitive skin barrier. Similarly, for whole body care, the best exfoliation results work with gentle, naturally sourced, and finely ground granular scrubs and polishes.
Another way to skin cycle for winter care is to incorporate a hydrating serum or facial oil into your routine. These types of products can help to provide an extra boost of hydration to the skin, which is especially important during the winter when the skin can become dry, dehydrated, and dull looking.
Another way is to switch to a heavier moisturizer during the colder months. A thicker, more emollient moisturizer can provide a barrier to protect the skin from the dry air, while also helping to seal in moisture. However, if your skin is particularly dry and itchy, a heavy balm may actually be stripping much needed lipids from your skin, so go easy and use a face oil such as our HEALER’S GOLD™ Oil.
It's also important to remember to protect the skin from the sun, even in the winter, as the sun's UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and cause skin damage. So, using sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 and UVA protection is important to slow down premature aging. Most especially, when using leave-on acidic peels, retinols, and liquid exfoliants.
Lastly, Vitamin D is crucial for overall skin + health. People with darker skin tones make less vitamin D that those with lighter skin tones. Also, aging skin makes 75 percent less vitamin D than when we were younger. Vitamin D comes from three sources: sunlight, specific foods, and supplements. It is a group of fat-soluble vitamins which help support your:
As a general guideline, the ideal and best way to get Vitamin D is from approximately 10-20 minutes of midday sun exposure. Some people may need more sun and at certain times of the year (i.e., winter) the sun may not be strong enough to provide the required Vitamin D. For others, sun exposure may not be appropriate, such as burn or skin cancer survivors.
Some food sources richest in Vitamin D can be found here. The best form of Vitamin D is D3 which is superior at optimizing and maintaining Vitamin D levels long-term and if you prefer a plant-based option, Vitamin D2 derived from yeast or mushrooms could be a best alternative. Taking vitamin D when you’re not deficient will have little to no benefit— and may even cause harm. Make sure you confirm a suspected vitamin D deficiency with a blood test, obtained through your doctor.
It is important to keep in mind that everyone's skin is different, so it's best to consult with a KOKOBÉRNA skin expert to determine the best approach to skin cycling for winter care.
kokoberna skin cycling winter skin care routines by season
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© 2022 Belinda Kǒkóèkà Bassey Ephraim
Based on the original contemplation written and published © 2022 kokoberna.com
Bassey Ephraim, Belinda Kǒkóèkà.
Moments of presence: love of the subtle
All rights reserved. This article may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the author, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review; nor may any part of this article be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or other, without written permission from the author.
An invitation for all to discover and experience West Africa’s best kept beauty secrets.
From inner well-being herbal teas to therapeutic skin care products that holistically illuminate your beauty inside out outside in. Calm inflammation, remove pigmentation spots, and deeply hydrate.
When the skin barrier’s hydrolipidic pH is out of balance, inflammation, accelerated aging, and skin disorders easily manifest. At this time, skin barrier should be nourished and nurtured. Without proper care, the disordered skin barrier becomes more exacerbated oftentimes leading to hyperpigmentation, increased sensitivity, dryness of the skin that manifests as oily acneic skin, scarring, redness, inability of skin to hold on to moisture, etc.
Our natural organic soothing, brightening, and deeply hydrating skin care products are supremely effective because we took dedicated time to research and study the physiological structure of the skin which we then based our centuries’ old family-owned formulae. To holistically support the interconnectedness of the skin’s biological structure and neuro-immune systems that intrinsically link the brain, skin, hormones, and gut.
We then went a step further and rooted our skin care formulae on the exacting principles of corneotherapy - the core principle of which takes an individualized approach to repairing the skin’s stratum corneum, keeping intact the lipid barrier, and maintaining a healthy constant state of the skin’s barrier defense systems. Skin aging slows down, inflammation ceases to exist, and skin appears vibrant and supple.
When the skin barrier is healthy and balanced, it becomes more efficient in sending the right signals to the many layers underneath the skin barrier and influences the regenerative processes in the deeper layers of the skin.
When the skin barrier is unhealthy and imbalanced, disrupted skin barrier defense systems encourage structural inflammation, accelerated signs of aging, and abnormal trans epidermal water loss from the skin’s surface.
This is why KOKOBÉRNA skin care products are extremely effective and superior. They keep the epidermis and it’s lipid barrier intact at all times which enhances the ability of the skin to self-repair and accelerate the healing process.
This approach of retaining the integrity of the epidermis ensures the skin’s defense and immune systems are not stimulated unnecessarily and that the therapeutic actions of our indigenous organic botanical ingredients and bio active cosmeceuticals work from the outer layers inward.
We also take an individualized approach to skin care and it’s treatment by following a logical path that investigates and defines the causes of the conditions and concerns before recommending our therapeutic skin care luxuries in a sequence that achieves the best outcome for the health of your skin.
To better assist our clients, we highly recommend our Healthy Clear Skin Program. It is an invitation to book a three-month virtual concierge service to assist with helping you discover the root cause of your skin care concerns and how to better manage long-term solutions, so your skin is soothed, smooth, and radiant.
Alternatively, we offer a minimalist skin care routine to help repair and recondition the skin's neuro-sensory barrier.
May you be #kokobernabeautiful.
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As you clasp the warm cup of tisane between your hands and experience the flavor and the aroma through your senses, elevate your self-care ritual with a prayer of wellness and gratitude: “With each sip, my reproductive organs are in perfect working condition. I am deeply nourished. I am perfectly healthy.”
My love for health, beauty, and wellness began at an early age, in the royal Efik courts of Old Calabar Kingdom, Nigeria, where I apprenticed with my grandmother, a renowned healer and herbalist, who specialized in handcrafting intricate indigenous medicinal herbal remedies. The invaluable lessons learned as a young apprentice on the art of beauty and the therapeutics of traditional African plant medicines, would remain in my heart.
After several years on Wall Street and a health crisis, I felt a calling to journey back home. During my time there, I discovered a herbal skin oil from my grandmother’s library that effectively healed my surgical scar, repaired the surrounding skin tissue, and significantly reduced the excess keloid growth.
I would spend time in my home country discovering, cataloguing, and apprenticing under the guardianship of artisan herbalists to learn the fine art of recreating these divine skin care treatments. In identifying and refining the intricate composites of the bio-dynamic formulating process that was used; diligently researching the healing power of the indigenous herbs, nocturnal flowers, and medicinal bush plants used in traditional African medicine; and meticulously investigating clinical studies on each ingredient, the result of which was a combination of 35 thoroughly researched nutrient-rich indigenous plant ingredients and extracts with a proven record of safety and efficacy. The seed of KOKOBÉRNA was planted and my first formulation, the sacred crown jewel of the brand, HEALER’S GOLD™ Face Oil, was born.
The unwavering commitment to preserve my family's values and legacy, led to the laborious creation of the comprehensive KOKOBÉRNA heritage library of ancient African herbal remedies built over two decades. A global citizen who has continental living experiences across Africa, Europe, and America, I enjoy representing the refined and authentic qualities of West African “Art de Vivre” around the world. A life-long learner, I am also a certified functional nutritionist, a mindfulness-based meditator, and am currently aligning my deep knowledge of traditional African medicine with the grounded principles that traditional Ayurveda medicine provides. Lastly, I believe the ability to live an abundant healthy lifestyle lies in one's conscious awareness of the integrative relationship between body + mind + spirit™.
From nature which provides a tremendously powerful materia medica, to the excellent quality of our handcrafted products and the lasting promise they deliver, to the endearing relationship between the brand and its customers who are discerning and expect the best; this is the KOKOBÉRNA way.
The African proverb states, “A good name is better than riches.” In ancient Africa, and even in today’s modern African societies, when a child is born, its name is a reflection of its essence, its crown, what it is destined to do in life.
KOKOBÉRNA is a combination of two words: Kǒkóèkà – my tribal name has a rich history in the Efịk culture, one of many tribes and languages in Nigeria, and literally translates “mother’s daughter, mother’s essence, mother’s reflection” AND Bernadette - named after Saint Bernadette of Lourdes that was given during my coming of age confirmation rite of passage, literally translates “brave as a bear”.
It is our belief the origin of our name reflects the essence of our brand and its destiny; an ideal that mirrors the substance of the KOKOBÉRNA Woman – a contemporary who harnesses both her divine feminine and divine masculine energies in how she affects change in the world.
A tea is a traditional infusion made specifically from the delicate leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant, the caffeinated species from which all tea leaves are harvested. Tea blends that include matcha, black tea, pu-erh tea, green tea, white tea, oolong tea, and some purple teas all fall under the tea category. Infusions such as yerba mate, which contain caffeine, are not related to the Camellia sinensis plant.
A tisane (təˈzan) is a traditional infusion consisting of therapeutic substances and herbs that exclude the tea plant. Pure tisane blends include the roots, resin, softwood, gum, bark, leaves, flowers, fruits, grains, minerals, and seeds that are steeped (infusion) or simmered (decoction). In ancient traditional cultures and medicinal systems, tisanes are a popular non-caffeinated alternative because of their holistic, therapeutic, and regenerative effects on the whole body.
The indigenous peoples of ancient traditional cultures across Africa, Asia, and the rest of the world do not consume hot drinks the way it is consumed here in the West. It is approached with a delicate sense of gentility, of reverence, of tradition, and consumed in small portions.
Although touted as having high-antioxidant content and generally good for immunity support, the tea plant can be drying/astringent to the body and overly stimulative to the circulatory system when drunk in excess. For example, in a society where our body-mind is extremely stressed and our bodies over-exercised, heavy consumption of caffeinated beverages and teas oftentimes leads to insomnia, increased hypertension, and overworked circulation which then leads to excess heat within the body and subsequently, internal and hormonal imbalance.
Alternatively, true tisanes are rooted in the healing powers of nature, science of rejuvenation, and holistic energetics; they are gentle and nutritive to the tissues and organs of the body. This is why our collection of premium herbal tisanes have a minimum effective serving that steadily supports the body on a cumulative basis to reduce inflammation so you feel better inside out, day after day.
In ancient times, the preparation of a brew began as medicine and became a ceremony; the art and celebration of life. It is this ritualistic approach of devotion to one’s health that we recommend KOKOBÉRNA tisanes be prepared by way of decocted infusions because decocted tisanes are simmered over a low flame and yield a deeply-flavored nutritive elixir by fully extracting the nutrients from heartier parts of the herbal blends such as roots, seeds, barks, and minerals.
The noble art of the brew is of supreme importance. To honor the aesthetic tranquility of one’s self-care ritual and to fully draw out the essence, vitamins, enzymes, minerals, flavonoids, and aromatic volatile oils that offer cell-rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, and beautifying properties, we recommend a longer steeping time than that which is typically experienced in western herbalism.
A lot of thought has been put into our compound herbal formulas. It is why we spend more than thirty days bio-dynamically syncing each batch to its highest frequencies, why our specific method strengthens the synergistic effects of our potentized herbal blends to bring vitality to those who appreciate the fine art of nature.
In everything we do, we are maniacal about the details and therefore we do not recommend making “ice tea”, microwaving the tea, or adding sweeteners; yes, even natural sweeteners such as stevia, monk fruit, etc. Allow the therapeutic effects of the tisanes to work holistically and please enjoy responsibly.
All KOKOBÉRNA tisanes can be enjoyed daily, any time of day, with no more than three cups a day.
The exception is SACRAL WOMB™ Reproductive Wellness™ Tisane which is best enjoyed first upon rising and a second cup the early part of the day. We also suggest not to drink the tisane during your menstrual cycle;
this gives the pituitary gland (produces and secretes hormones), liver, and reproductive organs the space to reset and go through a regular cycle^.
Women experiencing menopausal symptoms may consume SACRAL WOMB™ Reproductive Wellness™ Tisane daily. The decocted brew can also be added to a sitz bath to cleanse and soothe vaginal inflammation. You may also increase the serving size depending on your body’s chemistry.
However, with all herbal products, a week-long break between replenishments is recommended.
KOKOBÉRNA is a woman-founded, woman-owned, and woman-focused West African beauty and wellness lifestyle brand.
Traditionally, African’s have always had a reverence for sacred rites of passage and there are three important stages in a woman’s life to include the rites of youth, womanhood, and maturity.
These stages are marked with:
Depending on her lifestyle choices, these can be trying periods or beautiful milestones in her life. Each stage, if not managed properly, can adversely affect her body, her mind, and how she shows up in the world. Personally, I struggled with dysmenorrhea, a menstrual disorder where you experience extremely painful cramping which was debilitating. This tisane is near and dear to my heart; it helped me on so many levels including resetting my cycles and no more period pain. It is my wish that our SACRAL WOMB™ Reproductive Wellness™ Tisane supports women through these important stages of their lives although this particular tisane is not safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding^.
Scientific studies around reproductive health and its effect on longevity are finally honing in on the message that the longer women can ease menstrual disorders and/or delay the onset of menopausal symptoms (reproductive aging), the longer lifespan they typically have. Each certified organic herb in our SACRAL WOMB™ Reproductive Wellness™ Tisane was systematically selected according to their therapeutic adaptogen effect, the specific flavonoids they contain, and the potency they possess to synergistically support women’s reproductive health and minimize reproductive aging.
Moringa contains a unique abundance of bioflavonoids, antioxidants, adaptogens, and vitamins that are scientifically proven to protect the liver and reduce oxidative stress within the body and brain; Wild Yam Root is used to regulate hormonal action as well as activate and stimulate liver function so hormones can be circulated properly in the body; Black Cohosh helps to regulate hormone activity, stimulate the estrogen cycle, and helpful for painful or delayed menstruation; Dong Quai tones and strengthens the uterus and ovaries; Red Clover helps to relieve hot flashes, brain fog/depression, and vaginal dryness; Licorice is often recommended to promote fertility as well as improving adrenal exhaustion and hormonal imbalances; Shatavari is an immunity booster and nourishes whole body to provide relief from menstrual cramps, neurophysiological imbalances, and polycystic ovary syndrome; and both Nettle (relieves water retention and bloating) and Alfalfa provide rich sources of plant estrogens, chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins B, C, and E.
Overall, a nourishing brain-liver-body tisane to help delay ovarian aging and strengthen the immune system using medicinal herbs that holistically promote reproductive wellness.
Ingredients: *Moringa leaf, *raspberry leaf, *burdock root, *alfalfa leaf, *goldenrod, *black cohosh root, *vitex berries, *red clover blossoms, *shatavari root, *dong quai root, *motherwort, *nettle leaf, *wild yam, *amla gooseberry, *sage leaf, *damiana leaf, and *licorice root.
*Certified Organic Content: 100%
All KOKOBÉRNA products are designed and formulated without endocrine disruptors that adversely affect how the liver regulates estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, and progesterone. When the liver is not overburdened, it prevents hormones from changing into dangerous metabolites which is why we chose this specific complex of medicinal herbs that can assist the liver to properly metabolize and excrete hormones for overall wellness and reproductive health.
The truth is, painful, prolonged periods are not normal. Heavy bleeding and severe pelvic pain is not normal. The rate of fibroids among women of color, relative to white women, is not normal. The subsequent effect of an increase in hysterectomies, offered as the "best" and oftentimes "the only" solution, especially to women of color, is not normal.
It is our goal to bring to our customers alternative herbal solutions and it is my hope SACRAL WOMB™ Reproductive Wellness™ Tisane can help alleviate some of these problems and holistically support our bodies in moving seamlessly through the different life stages so we can fully enjoy optimal health and wellness our whole lives.
My journey in setting a solid foundation for KOKOBÉRNA spanned almost two decades - time spent cataloguing my foremothers’ handcrafted remedies passed down within the family and going as far back as the early 1600s, ethically sourcing our ingredients, establishing the foundation of our supply chain, and working with a hand-selected team to help me refine the structure of the herbal remedies and validate the scientific research of the plant ingredients and their clinically-proven properties for skin, hair, and body.
During that time, I became a certified functional nutrition coach which afforded me the opportunity to access deep foundational knowledge about nutrition science, digestion, metabolism, immunity, change psychology, and how the whole body works on a cellular level. The unique ability to combine scientific theory with practical knowledge accelerated a meeting of the minds, to ask the right questions, to update herbal protocols, and fine-tune the KOKOBÉRNA heritage library of handcrafted remedies; both from a holistic and therapeutic standpoint so the KOKOBÉRNA Woman can effectively relieve stress and inflammation with our therapeutic wellness solutions, look beautiful with our nutrient-rich skincare products, and live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilled life.
For those that are seeking a holistic lifestyle and are new to the brand, ÈMÉDÍ KOKOBÉRNA - Welcome to KOKOBÉRNA!
KOKOBÉRNA is a contemporary West African holistic beauty and wellness lifestyle brand, blending heritage and scientific innovation to handcraft an emblematic collection of therapeutic and nutrient-rich products that cultivate a deep-rooted connection between body + mind + spirit™. Operating as a benefit company, 5% of every sale is donated to charities that uplift humanity and empower women and young girls across the globe. Founded 1611 by ancestral monarchs of Old Calabar Efik Kingdom, Nigeria, West Africa and today under my creative direction as a fourteenth generation descendant.
Thank you for supporting our business, welcome to the tribe, and may you always be #kokobernabeautiful.
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The views expressed in this article intend to highlight alternative wellness and self-care solutions. This article is for informational purposes only, even if and to the extent that it features wellness advice. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
^These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Caution is recommended when consuming tisanes (herbal tea) while on any medication, as the herbal formula could both potentiate as well as diminish the effects of any prescribed drug/medication uptake^ so use good common sense and enjoy responsibly. As with all supplements, we recommend you consult a qualified physician or healthcare practitioner before using herbal products particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, consuming alcohol, or are taking prescribed medications and/or have a medical condition. Not for use in persons with hypertension, auto-immune disease, liver disorders, edema, severe kidney insufficiency, low blood potassium, or heart disease. Take a week-long break between replenishments. Keep away from children.
*certified organic ingredients
Sources:
https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.25180
https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.abc2590
https://doi.org/10.1038/srep32833
https://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.52677
https://dx.doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.rbms.2018.03.001
https://dx.doi.org/10.1007%2Fs12231-016-9344-0
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2020.01.058
https://dx.doi.org/10.3746/jkfn.2016.45.6.819
kokoberna estrogen menopause women’s women female brain aging reproductive wellness system uterus fibroids pcos gynecological health healthcare wellness infertility fertility ovaries herbs traditional African medicinal plants ethnobotanical herbal tisane tisanes tea self-care
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Regarded as one of the largest succulent plants in the world, the Baobab (Adansonia digitata L., Malvaceae) is a majestic tree revered throughout Africa (in parts where it grows) for its medicinal and nutritional value. Called the “Tree of Life” for its mythical powers to cure all, it provides food, water, fiber for building shelter, traditional medicine, and a place in the village square where the elders meet to resolve problems among their kinsmen.
The massive deciduous Baobab trees are indigenous to Africa. The tree belongs to a pan-tropical family with seven of the eight species found in very remote, thorn woodland, arid/semi-arid areas of sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Africa. Surrounded by the sounds and smells of the African bush, these iconic trees can hold up to 2,000 gallons of water, with a height up to 100’ ft. tall and a diameter up to 33’ ft. wide at adult age.
Although the Baobab tree is mostly regarded as a fruit-bearing forest tree, it is a multipurpose and widely-used species with superior medicinal properties, numerous food uses of various plant parts, and bark fibers that are used for a variety of purposes. Centuries ago, the Baobab was well traded in key African markets as early as the sixteenth century.
The leaves of Baobab tree are a staple for many populations in Africa, especially the sub-Saharan region of the continent. During the rainy season when the Baobab leaves are tender, villagers harvest a fresh batch of leaves. During the last month of the rainy season, leaves are harvested in great abundance and are dried for domestic use and for marketing during the dry season. The leaves are typically sun-dried and either stored as whole leaved or pounded and sieved into a fine powder. Young leaves are widely used, cooked like spinach, and frequently dried, often powdered and used for sauces over porridges, thick gruels of grains, or boiled rice.
The bark is used to produce ropes, clothes, baskets, mats and fish traps and the wood can be used as fodder or as thatching for roofs.
The Baobab tree produces a super fruit because of its exotic nature and rich nutrient profile. Its fruit pulp has very high content of:
Inside these Baobab fruits are even more valuable seeds. Baobab seed can be classified as both a protein and oil rich. In contrast to other plant seed protein profiles, Baobab seeds also have interesting anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antimicrobial properties. Precious oil is pressed from these seeds producing a highly valued anti-aging oil rich in mega fatty acids, plant phytosterols, and vitamins A, D E & F. Baobab seed oils have extremely high levels of lysine (which helps build collagen), thiamine, calcium, and iron.
Although the human body can synthesize saturated fatty acids and some monounsaturated fatty acids, humans lack the enzymes necessary to synthesize the parent fatty acids of the omega-6, -3, and -9 series; important molecular structural components of cellular membranes such as red blood cells, immune cells, cell membranes of the retina, function of the central nervous system, and the skin’s cell membrane and structure, etc. Clinical signs of essential fatty acid deficiency as it pertains to the skin include dry skin; increased susceptibility to infection resulting in acne, psoriasis, and rosacea; inflamed skin; accelerated signs of aging; and poor wound healing.
The oil of Baobab seed contains the following major and naturally occurring Omega 3, 6, and 9 essential fatty acids:
Linoleic acid plays a significant role in the skin. In dry skin, it strengthens the lipid barrier of the epidermis, protects against transepidermal loss of water and normalizes the skin metabolism. Linoleic acid is a natural component of sebum (approx.. 50% to be exact). In persons with acne skin, a severe deficiency in linoleic content in sebum (both on the skin surface and the internal sebaceous glands) is observed, which leads to blocked pores and formation of comedos (clogged follicles) and scars. The use of linoleic acid for oily skin and problematic skin care leads to improvement of the work of sebaceous glands and unblocking of pores. Specifically, linoleic essential fatty acid is actively involved in the rejuvenation and renewal of cells, hence this reduces the appearance of marks, and helps the skin defend against skin issues such eczema, sunburn, acne and rashes that superficially scar the skin. Its soothing properties are also superior for eczema and psoriasis treatments.
It has been proved that for aging skin, the unique combinations of linolenic, palmitic, and oleic fatty acid composed in the Baobab seed oil alleviates the effects of UV induced post-inflammatory sunburn, stimulates healing processes, soothes irritations, reduces transepidermal water loss to improve skin moistening and prevent dryness, increases elasticity of the skin, improves skin tone, minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, activates regeneration of damaged lipid barrier of the skin’s epidermis, heals inflammations, stabilizes the skin’s metabolism, and act as receptors stimulating the synthesis of barrier lipids of the skin. Baobab oil is well known for its non-siccative (non-drying, non-comedogenic) property and has shown strong anti-oxidant potential to reduce DNA damage in skin cells while modulating the skin’s immune responses.
Our Healer's Gold Antioxidant Face Oil is made by hand-crushing the seeds of the Baobab tree with mortar and pestle, cold-pressing the precious oil, and then bottled alongside 30 other skin-transforming healing West African plant oils.
It mimics the three skin mechanisms of:
Discover for yourself the transformative experience of our ancient skin care treatments that have nurtured the skin of 14 generations of West African female monarchs.
Our mission is to unequivocally make a positive impact in people’s lives using the highest-quality organic and natural plant ingredients sourced from West African origin that heal, nourish, and encourage healthy beautiful skin. It is founded on the philosophical understanding that the wellbeing of your skin is first and foremost, with the best products to offer protection, and an attitude to consciously live a thoughtfully-composed way of life.
May you always be beautiful.
Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, May 2015, pp. 79-84
Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy, August 2016, pp. 1-8
CHEMIK, 2014, pp. 103–110
Encyclopedia Americana, 1989, pp. 207
Encyclopedia of Life Sciences, September 2005, pp. 1-7
International Journal of Advanced Herbal Science and Technology, August 2015, pp. 20-26
Journal of American Science, June 2010, pp. 990-994
Journal of Cellular Physiology, May 2017, pp. 2558-2568
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, February 2017, ePublication
Journal of Food Chemistry, January 2005, pp. 77-84
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, October 2007, pp. 220-229
]]>We, the original storytellers... those who know where they come from. Angélique Kidjo globally represents that which is the divine feminine.
]]>The gentle waft of Angélique Kidjo crooning Lemanja fills the air enveloping and welcoming guests as they approach the entryway leading into The KOKOBÉRNA Boutique.
Angélique Kidjo globally represents that which is - the African feminine divine, along with our ancestors such as the beloved Miriam Makeba, the fierce Queen Amina, the discerning Queen Moremi, and many other foremothers across the continent, including the new generation of young contemporaries shining the light on our heritage, upholding our traditions, our essence
We, the original storytellers... those who know where they come from
Like the town crier of pre-colonial African villages gone by
There is an African proverb, “to get lost is to find the way”
It is my hope that what she has done for West Africa through her work in music, film, and theatre – may it be exemplified in the beautification that flows from KOKOBÉRNA to you, our clients.
Read the article, click-through the links, explore, immerse, be curious, stay open, ask questions, leave your thoughts and comments below.
In Gratitude.
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Angélique Kpasseloko Hinto Hounsinou Kandjo Manta Zogbin Kidjo, known as Angélique Kidjo, is a five-time Grammy Award winning Beninese singer-songwriter, actress, and activist who is noted for her diverse musical influences and creative music videos. Kidjo was born into a family of performing artists. Currently featured on the cover of Forbes Africa, the below is the full and complete article excerpted from The New Yorker Magazine. Interviewed by Julian Lucas, February 2022.
At sixty-one, the doyenne of African pop is recording with everyone from Burna Boy to Philip Glass—and still searching for new rhythms. Julian Lucas
Fit women often lose their menstrual period when training hard or dieting to lose fat. While some think it’s no problem, this could not be further from the truth.
In today’s article, we explore why a missed period should be of concern. Our nutrition coaches share tips on staying lean while balancing hormones for menstrual health. We also highlight how hormonal imbalance also affects men.
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Maryann is young, active, and (apparently) healthy.
She eats a self-described “clean” diet. She weight trains twice a week and does about two hours of cardio four or five days a week.
A year ago, at age 43, she stopped getting her periods.
She didn’t mention it to her trainer. And it never occurred to her to consult a doctor.
In fact, secretly, she felt relieved. After all, she did not want to get pregnant.
Besides, dealing with her monthly cycle had become a hassle. It interfered with her exercise program. And the weight fluctuations played with her mind.
So…no period, no problem. Right?
Wrong.
The menstrual cycle is a series of changes women’s bodies go through when preparing for the possibility of getting pregnant.
Here’s how it works…
Of course, the amount of estrogen and progesterone produced depends on which phase of the menstrual cycle one is in (i.e., follicular vs. luteal).
If ovulation takes place and the egg is not fertilized, the lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina. And this is what most people think of as a “period”.
Here’s a visual of the process.
Back to Maryann…what went wrong with this normal process?
(And why does this happen to so many female exercisers?)
In simple terms, a woman’s body is extremely sensitive to energy fluctuations.
When a woman is eating a restricted diet (especially if she’s intermittent fasting or skipping meals), or she’s exercising strenuously for hours every day, her body recognizes this negative energy balance as a threat to her survival.
So, the body shuts down “non-essential” body processes such as reproduction. In short, she becomes infertile. The scientific term for this is hypothalamic amenorrhea.
Hypothalamic amenorrhea is a condition in which menstruation stops for several months due to an abnormality involving the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a region of the forebrain below the thalamus which controls reproductive cycle (in all people), and coordinates both the autonomic nervous system (fight or flight response). The activity of the pituitary gland, controls body temperature, thirst, hunger, and other homeostatic systems, and is involved in sleep and emotional activity. When one has hormonal imbalance of any kind, as in the case of menopause/thyroid/reproductive issues, the downregulation can be attributed to poor diet, chronic stress, or too much exercise.
Girls now get their first period (aka menarche) earlier than in our grandparents’ generation.
This may be because, on average, kids are heavier than in the past. Since kids are becoming heavier sooner than they used to, their periods are also starting sooner.
But to understand that, we need to understand the function and recognize the relationship between the hormone leptin, one's body fat, and the hypothalamus.
Leptin’s main function is to help regulate the long-term balance between our body’s food intake and energy use (expenditure). Leptin also helps inhibit (prevent) hunger and regulate energy balance so that our bodies don’t trigger a hunger response when it doesn’t need energy (calories). It does this by primarily acting on our brainstem and hypothalamus to regulate hunger and energy balance, though we have leptin receptors in other areas of our bodies.
Leptin doesn’t affect our hunger levels and food intake from meal to meal but rather acts to alter food intake and control energy expenditure over a longer period of time to help maintain the body's internally perceived "normal" weight. As far as the body is concerned, our idea of a normal weight, based on the scale, is irrelevant to how our bodies naturally "calculate" this magic number.
Leptin has a more profound effect when you lose weight. As our body fat (adipose tissue) decreases, leptin levels decrease, which signals our bodies to think that it is starving. This stimulates intense hunger and appetite and can lead to increased food consumption.
Your white adipose tissue (body fat) makes and releases leptin. White adipose tissue is the main type of fat in your body. It’s located beneath your skin, around internal organs, in the middle cavity of your bones. White adipose tissue serves as cushioning for various parts of your body.
The amount of leptin in your blood is directly proportional to the amount of adipose tissue your body has. In other words, the less body fat, the less leptin you have, and the more body fat, the more leptin you have.
So, when a child gains enough weight, there is a threshold amount of leptin produced to signal the hypothalamus to kick off the first menstrual cycle.
The opposite is true for women who get too lean or who restrict calories too much.
Getting too lean decreases the amount of leptin circulating in the body. This, in turn, decreases the activity of the hypothalamus which secretes GnRH - a precursor to testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen.
Since Maryann was restricting calories, exercising almost every day, and losing body fat, this combination of factors created a physiological balance which could have triggered the loss of her period.
As discussed, women’s physiological sensors are highly tuned in to sensing deficits. Whether in energy balance, essential nutrients, or body fat, women’s bodies quickly respond to deficiencies.
It is our DNA – it cannot be changed. However, this “deficit setpoint” will vary from woman to woman.
Some women can be naturally leaner, can work out with higher volume and intensity, or can eat fewer calories while staying hormonally healthy aka having a period.
Other women’s systems are more sensitive to any perceived restriction.
Of course, stress — of any kind — will make things worse.
For many female athletes (or even just active women such as ourselves), the demands of training and competing, pressure to succeed, and other normal life stressors such as jobs, school, finances, relationships, etc. can combine with nutritional and physiological stressors to shut our system down.
The same thing can happen when the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), aka our “fight-flight” system, is overtaxed. For instance:
Since many female athletes or recreational exercisers can also be driven, high-achieving people who seek out stress and challenge and push themselves to be ever-better…well, all this sometimes creates the perfect storm.
Unless you’re planning on starting a family, infertility and losing your period might not seem like a deal. In fact, it might seem a nice break from the hassle of having periods.
Not so fast.
Remember that your period isn’t just about pregnancy. Rather, it’s a side effect of normal hormonal health. In other words, losing your period (or having significant irregular periods) means that something is “off” hormonally.
Think of your period as a dashboard indicator light. When you lose it, the light starts blinking: Hormonal health alert! And you ought to pay attention. Not only does not having a period cause hypothalamic amenorrhea, as we age and transition through perimenopause and menopause, science has shown that delaying the menopause experience, by maintaining a healthy pain-free period, actually leads to longer lifespan and better quality of life, all factors being equal.
In the case of hypothalamic amenorrhea, those messages we talked about earlier — from the hypothalamus (brain + digestive + endocrine systems) to the pituitary (brain + endocrine system) to the ovaries (brain + endocrine system) — significantly diminish. And that means the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone is dangerously reduced.
Why is that a problem if you miss a period and could really care less about starting a family? The bottom line is that what you don’t want and what your body is naturally designed to do are not mutually exclusive.
Your body also needs these hormones for bone strength. Hormones are also required to keep you feeling healthy, energetic, and even-keeled psychologically.
In fact, because of the link between estrogen, progesterone, and bone health, many fit young women who lose their periods end up with weaker bones than their eighty-year-old grandmothers.
And yes, that includes the ones like Maryann, who regularly perform weight-bearing exercise, and whose diets are rich in calcium and vitamins D and K.
Neither strength exercise nor proper nutrition is enough to make up for hypothalamic amenorrhea.
Unfortunately, a lot of young female athletes aren’t aware of their body’s needs for estrogen, so when they lose their periods as part of their training, they simply take it for granted.
In fact, the first issue that often drives women like Maryann to the doctor is not the loss of menstruation. It’s a mysterious pain in one of their thighs.
The cause of that pain — as their doctors can easily discover with a little investigation — is a stress fracture.
This happens so often that there’s even a name for the syndrome (which by the way, affects both male and female): the Female and Male Athlete Triad.
Core symptoms of the Female Athlete Triad are:
But the symptoms don’t stop there.
Estrogen and progesterone — along with other sex steroid hormones such as testosterone — have wide-ranging effects throughout our bodies.
So, if your hormones are disrupted, you might also experience:
I can’t tell you how many times a young female athlete has come into my clinic complaining of thigh pain and, surprise, no periods. Further exploration usually reveals a pattern of restrictive eating or excessive exercise. Not to mention many of these other symptoms.
It’s a real shame. Because along with their periods, these young women are losing the very thing that matters to them most: Their health and their ability to have a better quality of life as they age.
While the Triad is more prevalent in females than in males, both sexes have the potential to be affected by the Triad. Loss of menses is a prime signal of the Triad’s presence in females, and although it may be more difficult to recognize in males, their health can still be affected negatively by the Triad.
In our client’s case and one of the few men we coach, Jason, an ostensibly fit personal trainer, was tired. He’d been to many doctors, who put him on thyroid replacement without fixing the underlying cause — not enough food, and too much stress. A low-calorie diet, specifically intermittent fasting, combined with high stress spelled serious exhaustion for this otherwise healthy personal trainer.
Just like in women, when a man’s energy availability is chronically low, his hormonal health is at risk.
In Jason’s case, this showed up as a thyroid problem. We often see testosterone plummeting too. The same hypothalamus – pituitary – leptin - body fat -ovary/testis link is the culprit. It’s the same disruption pattern.
So if you’re a guy, please don’t think this article is irrelevant for you.
In fact, you should be especially cautious. After all, you don’t have that obvious signal — a missed period — to warn you that you’re at risk.
Which is why we all need to keep energy and hormones in balance or health will deteriorate.
While energy deficits are probably the most common cause of amenorrhea in female athletes — and low thyroid hormone/testosterone production in men — they are not the only cause.
Dr. John Berardi, advisor to EQUINOX, Apple, and Nike, has worked with several fitness / figure competitors who lost their menstrual period while preparing for a contest.
After introducing a few vitamin and mineral supplements, their periods returned.
Of course, negative energy balance and nutrient deficiency are intimately connected. If you’re not getting enough food overall, you’re probably also missing out on specific micronutrients.
What surprised Dr. Berardi was the way these athletes responded to vitamin and mineral supplementation alone (without additional calories).
“I was amazed when we experimented with this. We tested removing and reintroducing the multivitamin/ multimineral a few times. When the vitamins and minerals were in, periods returned. When they were out, menstruation stopped.”
This suggested to him that maybe, at least some of the time, energy deficit isn’t the problem so much as is nutritional deficiency.
In the nutrition coaching program, we also noticed that adding a handful of slow-digesting carbohydrates to most meals also helps, as does making sure to get enough carbohydrates post workout.
Many health-conscious women restrict carbohydrates, particularly starchy or sweet carbs (such as potatoes or bananas), believing that carbohydrates are “bad” or that low-carbohydrate diets are “good” for everyone.
The result is the same: hormonal disruption, amenorrhea, and a physiological stress response to what the body thinks is deprivation.
There may be a good reason for carb cravings in the luteal (aka premenstrual) phase of the menstrual cycle: Carbohydrates may serve a physiological need in women that science doesn’t fully understand yet.
With that said, the idea of specific micronutrient deficiencies — or even a link between carbohydrate intake and amenorrhea — is only a hypothesis. But it’s definitely food for thought.
Don’t ignore a series of missed periods. Along with nutritional deficiencies and energy imbalance, you could be dealing with quite a few serious underlying issues.
These include:
Not to scare you or anything, but this is why it is so important to see your doctor if you stop getting your periods. Even if you don’t want to get pregnant.
She cut down on a bit on her cardio training. (She didn’t eliminate it entirely, of course). She also started eating 500-1000 additional calories each day.
Within a few months, she did gain a few pounds. However, because we replaced some of her cardio with weights, most of that gain was lean.
Either way, not only did we improve her strength and lean mass, without causing fat gain, we also improved her hormonal health, reducing her risk for other health problems including premature onset of osteoporosis.
By addressing the real problems — metabolic down-regulation because of stress and inadequate food intake — we were able to wean Jason off his thyroid medication and on to a new, healthier path.
Once energy and hormones return to a healthy level, our bodies can resume normal reproductive functioning again. Even though this may take a few weeks-months to occur, your reproductive health will return to normal functioning with proper nutrition as in both Maryann and Jason’s case.
Once energy and reproduction are recovered, bone breakdown may decrease, but it is very difficult to recover your bone health back to normal.
We now know that when an energy deficient athlete eats more calories, it protects from further bone loss- but we don’t have good data yet to know if increasing food intake results in improving bone. More research is necessary- so it is important to simply avoid the bone loss in the first place and fuel your body properly to nourish your hormones and avoid negative health effects.
As for leptin, here’s not much you can do to raise your leptin levels to decrease hunger and appetite, since your leptin levels are directly related to how much adipose tissue your body has.
One study found that sleep-deprived people had high levels of ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger, and lower levels of leptin. Getting appropriate amounts of quality sleep is important for several reasons, so, in any case, it’s beneficial to your overall health.
Lastly, since leptin is a hormone your body makes and not a nutrient (like vitamin C or protein), no foods contain leptin.
If you’re a health-conscious woman who works out and eats well take note: Losing your period isn’t something to take lightly.
Although we shared a case study using a 43 year-old female athlete, maintaining menstrual health is of vital interest to women of all ages. With stable menstrual health throughout one's life, the later menopause is pushed further out, and the less adverse affects in female aging, all else being equal.
If your menstrual cycle becomes irregular or stops altogether:
It’s never too late to start making healthier choices. Because, while you may not want to start a family today, you’ll want to be walking on those bones. For life.
Our nutrition coaches are diet-agnostic and work from a holistic perspective grounded in sound functional medicine principles. If you’re concerned with your body weight or want guidance on how to lose weight in a healthy way that supports the delicate balance of your hormones, talk to your healthcare provider or consider seeing an endocrinologist who specializes in hormones and can offer weight management programs. Apply for FREE to the KOKOBÉRNA Nutrition Coaching and Wellness Counseling Program here.
Leave a comment, thoughts, or questions below.
In Good Health.
© 2022 KOKOBÉRNA
Excerpted and inspired from multiple sources to include:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21201-endocrine-system
women fitness missing period missed period stress menopause perimenopause estrogen progesterone testosterone leptin how much delay in periods is normal how long after you miss your period should you worry amenorrhea lifestyle factors structural problems osteoporosis late period negative pregnancy test thyroid dysfunction resistant weight loss weight gain low energy female aging
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A short philosophical contemplation on silence + movement, and redefining the essence of what it means to be a force for good.
]]>“There he went into a cave and spent the night there. The word of Yahweh came to him saying, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He replied, “I am full of jealous zeal for Yahweh Sabaoth because the Israelites have abandoned your covenant, have torn down your altars and put your prophets to the sword. I am the only one left, and now they want to kill me.” Then he was told, “Go out and stand on the mountain before Yahweh.” For at that moment, Yahweh was soon going to pass by. A mighty hurricane split the mountains and shattered the rocks before Yahweh. But Yahweh was not in the hurricane. And after the hurricane, an earthquake. But Yahweh was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake, fire. But Yahweh was not in the fire. And after the fire, a light murmuring sound. And when Elijah heard this, he covered his face with his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Then a voice came to him, which said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He replied, “I am full of jealous zeal for Yahweh Sabaoth because the Israelites have abandoned your covenant, have torn down your altars and put your prophets to the sword. I am the only one left, and now they want to kill me.” “Go,” Yahweh said, “go back by the same way to the desert of Damascus. You must go and anoint Hazael as king of Aram. You must anoint Jehu son of Nimshi as king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat, of Abel-Meholah, as prophet to succeed you.”"
- 1 Kings 19: 9-16
The beginning of this passage paints an evocative picture of the natural world and, perhaps, how we imagine God’s presence, or the universal life force, within it
From chaos, to stillness, to movement
How does this speak to you?
How did it speak to Elijah?
Oftentimes, we tell ourselves stories that are false yet sound so convincing, so logical
These stories then become belief and drive who we are, how we operate in the world
Even when God himself comes down and asks Elijah on multiple occasions... "What are you doing here?"
Elijah is so steadfast in the false belief of himself that I cannot imagine what he must have felt like when God tells him “Go back by the same way you have come."
Like Elijah, we never stop to pause and ask... "What am I doing here?"
In silence, the answers come
To know God… is to be intimate with silence, to examen, to be still
Part of our spiritual and/or meditation practice is to be alert to this stillness of God, of the universe
To be guided into movement by this silence
Choose what resonates, what is best for your highest good and the highest good of all
Stay open to the possibilities
Remain curious, gather data, journal your insights
Look at what feels in resonance with you even if you don’t have all the information, just yet
Don’t get lost in the mind; the pros and cons, this vs. that, analysis paralysis
How to intentionally manage and not get stuck in our minds, lost in our heads
Move your energy body
Go for a walk, go for a run, breathe through it, explore a yin yoga class near you; perhaps a healing Reiki session
The breath – deep, slow breathing exercises will ground you into your body and help open the energy of the mind
To observe the dance between where our minds are going, how our brains are processing (which is inextricably linked to hormonal balance), and the fine art of allowing our bodies to inhale-exhale-release and bring us into the present moment
Put your hand over your heart, close your eyes, take three deep breaths – and listen, even if it’s just for 30 seconds
Come back to the present moment, into your body, into the heart
Connect to the aligned frequencies that can help us feel more grounded and clearer in what is best
Listen… a conversation with another person or your own internal dialogue
Slow down and listen to self, listen to the internal messages, listen to whatever stories or narratives we are circling in
Listen and then determine…
Is this still true for me? Is this still in alignment with where I want my life to go? With my priorities? Is this still something I want to give energy to?
Practice tuning out the stimuli – to not be overwhelmed by it, to not be overtaken
Gift yourself the space for silence
And how rare is that, in this day and age… to have complete silence
To simply listen to the messages arising that you otherwise might not hear
The endless chatter of the mind OR all the talk outside of you
Truly, if you were honest, none of it has absolutely nothing to do with you
Gift yourself dedicated silent time
Take yourself off people’s calendars
Don’t be too readily available in some ways that work best for you
Listen to what you need to hear because you are going to have messages coming through
Sensing physically to hear the body’s messages
An interesting dance between our mind and body consciousness
To gain a truer, more intuitive understanding of what we each need
The power of the gut
A primal programming – to trust something at a very gut level
There is a lot of power in our bodies that we don’t always tap into
We are always in our heads, always running on to the next
Connect to the power of your gut right away – what are you sensing, what messages are coming through, what’s speaking to you AND then trusting where and how your body wants to move
Become more conscious of what we are choosing
Become more aware of what we are doing in our day
Becoming more conscious of our words – hmm, the power of words
In every moment, we unconsciously, and most times consciously, choose to send forth poison or honey
Are we effective or ineffective on the receiving end?
If you are triggered by a message, then that is intelligence from the heart that there is much work to be done
If your spirit is soothed, be that as it may, intelligence from the soul reveals you’re on the right path
So much of my West African heritage and personal journey of deep-rooted healing is intrinsically linked to the KOKOBÉRNA brand; this masterpiece that’s a very personal reflection of me, and I wonder if there might be expectations – this expectation that I should be one thing, stay in my lane
In silence, I know the answer in my bones
In movement, each time the sun’s rays touch my skin
Providing a more intuitive and holistic approach to beauty that considers the humanity of our clients, to transcend mediocrity because the truth is…
State of body
State of mind, and
State of spirit
Affects one's state of health, one's vitality, and consequently, one’s intrinsic beauty
Intrinsic beauty reflects extrinsic beauty – one cannot exist without the other
Beautiful and radiant skin is the result of doing the work; the tool that cocoons, that protects
Take excellent care of it and it will serve
And this too I know to be true
Going beyond skin
A bold challenge to authentically lead and pave the way
To redefine the essence of what it means to be a beauty and wellness brand
Creating a garden of well-being experiences
Building community - safe spaces, honest conversations, sharing
As we approach the mid-way point of the year, now is the perfect time to sit in silence, to be in peace, to move
To take inventory and assess
To think of life as a journey of love
To live fully in the present moment
To reassess what we consider to be “good” and “beautiful”
To use the weapon of your body-mind as a tool for healing, for dissolving belief systems that do not serve your highest good and the highest good of all
To find your destiny, your purpose, your vocation, your calling... in the balance of your feelings and thoughts
To discover peace at the juncture where the experience of flow is strongest; in silence + movement + creation
This is not only a wonderful spiritual experience; it is also a very practical way of dealing with everyday life
So, how have things been going with you?
Who are you?
Where do you come from?
What are you doing here?
Where are you headed?
How can KOKOBÉRNA help?
In Gratitude.
kokoberna, silence, beauty, wisdom, well-being, skincare, body care, scalp care, wellnessmoonshot, meditation, mindfulness, movement, yin yoga, pranayama, breath-work, organic skin care products, repair skin barrier, slow down premature aging, live life fully, luxury West African beauty wellness brand
© 2022 Belinda Kǒkóèkà Bernadette Bassey Ephraim ~ originally published on medium]]>
Looking for skincare products that suit your skin and give the benefits they boast is like looking for a needle in a haystack. In today's beauty and skincare market, there is a flood of products that boast unmatched results and whatnot, yet they fall flat with long-term use.
Over the years, I have not been very nurturing to my skin as I was never one to be disciplined enough to maintain a consistent skincare regimen. All the stress my skin has gone through is now making an appearance on my face in the form of unwelcome hyperpigmentation, excessive dryness, and now frequent acne breakouts. The real shock came when I noticed those pesky fine lines and the skin in my neck area started sagging. No! I am too young for this!
That is when I started my frantic search for a “miracle” product that would leave my skin replenished and rejuvenated. I went through so many peels, botox injections, masks, and elixirs that I have lost count now; every day, it was a new product in a desperate attempt to fix my skin as quickly as possible.
Caught in this cycle of stripping, cosmetic procedures, peeling and never-ending inflammation, I was about to give up when I discovered this amazing skincare brand’s miracle face oil - HEALER’S GOLD™ Oil!
I did not expect the results it gave after a single application. That first application was so soothing to my inflamed skin that I have not put down the bottle since. My skin, tired and angry due to the harsh products I used on it, immediately felt nourished and alive. All the redness, inflammation, and irritation were gone after one application. I was shocked!
Within a week of application, I noticed the glow in my skin and the even tone I had not seen on my skin in ages. With hyperpigmentation and the red patches gone, my skin looked younger, so much fresher and healthier.
It not only removed the skin damage and pigmentation but also moisturized my skin thoroughly, giving it natural plumpness and softness. My dry skin and the red inflamed itchy patches which were becoming more and more apparent, all of that was gone after I incorporated this miracle oil into my morning and nighttime skincare routine. I was left with healed, almost baby-like soft skin. And those wrinkles I was worried about? All gone. With skin like this, I don’t even look my age!
I am absolutely in love with these products and the ease of application has made my life so much easier. No more ten-step routine that requires hours and hours of preparation. I simply cleanse my face and put these products on. The best part is that the oil is not greasy at all which gives it a silky-smooth finish and I don’t have to worry about the clogged pores and greasy look. Perfect to wear under makeup to give that extra glow and shine.
Did I tell you how good the oil smells? I can go on and on about how this product has changed my life but let's see what are the ingredients that make this product so effective in turning your skin flawless.
The effects that I personally experienced after using this product regularly on my skin are incredible and to some extent unbelievable especially if you haven’t yet used this miracle face oil and not to exaggerate but truly:
How can one product have all these qualities you might ask? It is all in the ingredients and organic at that. There is a myriad of beneficial ingredients in this botanical face oil, with each of them proven to have the best value for skin but the key ingredients are:
This is a natural oil that is obtained from seeds of a tropical plant native to parts of Africa and Asia known as Tamanu Foraha (Calophyllum inophyllum). Tamanu oil has been used for its skin benefits for centuries in Africa and it continues to do so in the form of star ingredients in various skincare products. It is most famous for its role in managing acne and acne scars due to its bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties. It also promotes cell proliferation as well as produces collagen and glycosaminoglycans for your skin. The collagen production fills up the wrinkles and fine lines in aged skin while making it look taught and fresh. Due to its collagen-promoting quality, it is a natural choice for skincare products that promote anti-aging and anti-wrinkle products.
Other benefits of this oil include:
Extracted from the fruit and leaves of sea buckthorn plant or Hippophae rhamnoides, this holds a prime position in traditional African and Ayurvedic medicines. Its uses for treating skin issues such as psoriasis, acne, atopic dermatitis, and eczema are numerous. It helps the skin fight off the oxidative damage done by environmental factors on our skin for one. It slows down the aging process and soothes the inflamed skin and red patches that form because of the interaction of toxins with our unprotected skin. It helps to shrink pores and makes the skin appear smooth, even toned, and flawless. Interestingly, sea buckthorn oil is one of the few botanicals to contain all four omega fatty acids – ω-3 (polyunsaturated α-linoleic acid), ω-6 (polyunsaturated linoleic acid and γ-Linolenic acid (GLA)), ω-7 (monounsaturated palmitoleic acid), and ω-9 (monounsaturated oleic acid).
Baobab seed or Adansonia digitata is cold pressed for its extract due to its miraculous effects on skin health and for healing skin conditions. Native to Africa, it contains the highest chemical constituents of fats and lipids like palmitic acid, oleic acid, and omega 3 along with linoleic acid; this oil is nature's gift for people who have dry acne skin. It not only nourishes your skin but also imparts elasticity and a youthful glow. Most effectively, this ingredient repairs your outer skin barrier.
The barrier is made up of lipids that stop moisture loss from your skin and protects it against the environmental toxins that might damage the skin. When this barrier is damaged due to any factor, it results in your skin getting dry and inflamed. The skin loses all its moisture and becomes susceptible to environmental damage.
The high concentration of fatty acids in this oil helps build the barrier back which locks the moisture in, hydrating your skin from the inside. The glow that your skin gives off is unmatchable. And all this while being non-comedogenic and light on the skin. It prevents water loss from your skin as well as makes it soft, almost baby-like. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help it counter acne and inflammation on the skin.
The oil extracted from the Moringa oleifera plant is full of nutrients like omega 3, Omega 6, sterols, and tocopherols. Its high-fat content makes it an ideal moisturizing agent for your skin. The bioactive components of moringa make it an enemy of acne breakouts on your face and tocopherols, quercetin, and catechins compounds make sure to clear out any acne on your face. It also helps fight the bacteria on your skin that cause these acne breakouts hence managing acne problems through the elimination of the root cause.
These are just four of the many organic ingredients, okay thirty-nine to be exact, being used in these miracle face oil and their staggering benefits for your skin are in front of you. All these benefits and a hundred more are combined to give you one bottle of HEALER’S GOLD™ Oil that is no less than a miracle face oil for your skin. Who does not want a skincare product that has the benefits your skin might ever need to stay young and fresh and flawless! Give your skin the gift of youth by using this oil in your daily skincare regimen.
If you are looking for an effective skincare routine and best-in-class products to help repair a damaged skin barrier, the products in their KOKOBÉRNA RITUAL™ Calm + Repair include a skin-soothing cleansing balm to gently calm inflammation, a peptide-rich facial mist to protect, and my favorite miracle face oil to lock-in moisture and prevent water loss on skin!
Amazingly, it also gets rid of wrinkles and fine lines as well as fight acne and acne scars. All these qualities make it ideal for use at any age and stage of your life. Especially those who are struggling with pigmentation, extremely sensitive skin, sun damage, acne and acne scars must give these a try as they work wonders on your skin, and I can vouch for that.
Trust me, these products are worth the investment. You will be in love with your skin after you use these products, and I am sure you won't need any other skincare brand ever again!
REFERENCES
Repair damaged skin barrier best effective products irritation redness acne scars pigmentation hyperpigmentation sun damage moisture loss dehydrated dryness oily]]>
And the internet gives them plenty. (About 17 million, give or take.)
Click on any number of these offerings and you can read a super-convincing theory about how adrenal fatigue works.
Prolonged stress or illness overworks your adrenal glands. Eventually, your glands fatigue, and sleep disruptions, cravings, brain fog, exhaustion, and other symptoms set in.
According to certain people on the internet, expensive supplements, restrictive eat-this-not-that diet lists, and essential oil blends can turn this sad state of affairs around.
If you’re desperate for help, this adrenal-fatigue theory can seem like manna from Heaven.
Except it’s not true, as I’ll explain below.
In this article, we’ll help you sort the facts from the fiction. By the end, you’ll know the real cause of these symptoms—as well as evidence-based strategies that actually work.
To fully understand adrenal fatigue theory, you need a quick anatomy lesson.
At the top of each of your kidneys, you have an adrenal gland that releases an array of hormones. One of those hormones, cortisol, gets you out of bed, regulates blood pressure, and snaps you to attention during an emergency, among other things.
According to adrenal-fatigue theory, too much stress causes the adrenals to stop functioning properly.
They either don’t generate enough cortisol, or they produce it at the wrong times (like when you’re trying to sleep).
Those are all real problems. We’re guessing you’ve experienced one (or all) of them. Or you know someone who has. (Because why else would you be reading this post?)
The truth: There isn’t much evidence in favor of the adrenal fatigue theory.
But there is quite a bit of evidence that refutes it.
After carefully examining 58 different studies, researchers from Brazil found that, in most people tested for adrenal fatigue, cortisol levels were… normal. In other words, their adrenal glands were anything but depleted.1
They concluded: “Adrenal fatigue does not exist.” (Pretty clear where these scientists stand!)
Sure, if you dig around PubMed long enough, you’ll find a few studies that claim to support the adrenal fatigue theory.
Those studies tend to measure fatigue levels—rather than actual adrenal function. In other words, they show that fatigue exists, but not necessarily adrenal fatigue.
That’s probably because their so-called adrenal fatigue symptoms are very real, common—and frustrating.
Tiredness is one of the top reasons people seek medical care. It plagues a lot of folks.2
For most of those people, stress—and not adrenal fatigue—is the more likely problem. (More about this below).
Yet there’s no easy medical test for stress.
There are, however, a wide range of tests for the dozens of complex medical conditions that can also lead to fatigue, including thyroid issues, sleep apnea, and anemia.
This can leave people in a situation where they continually tell their doctors about how crummy they feel.
So their doctors order more tests that reveal nothing out of the ordinary, which can make patients feel unheard and misunderstood.
When someone’s not getting the answers they need, adrenal fatigue theory becomes super attractive.
Many people confuse adrenal fatigue with adrenal insufficiency (AI).
However…
Adrenal insufficiency is a recognized medical diagnosis.3
In AI, the adrenal glands don’t produce their full roster of hormones.
This includes cortisol as well as aldosterone (which regulates salt and water balance), DHEA (a “master” hormone necessary for testosterone and estrogen production), plus others.
AI can result from Addison’s disease, a condition where the adrenal glands are physically damaged, often due to an autoimmune reaction where the body attacks its own healthy tissue.
Or, it can result from hormonal signalling problems. Meaning, the hormonal signals from the pituitary or hypothalamus aren’t communicating properly with the adrenal glands.4, 5
The symptoms of AI are typically more severe than those proposed in “adrenal fatigue.”
They include:
Adrenal insufficiency can only be diagnosed and treated by a medical doctor.
Here’s what the proponents of adrenal fatigue get right: Stress is a real problem—for a lot of people.
Chronic stress doesn’t just affect the adrenal glands.
Our stress response is a whole-body experience, affecting the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, among many other parts of the body.
Short bouts of stress followed by adequate recovery are no big deal. In fact, that’s how we grow stronger.
If that stress is ongoing and there’s not enough recovery, however, the body starts to break down.
Consider what might happen if you hoisted heavy dumbbells… forever. You wouldn’t get stronger; you’d get weaker.
And that’s what happens when you’re under unrelenting stress, even low-level stress. Chronic stress without respite feels terrible, head-to-toe, as the graphic below shows.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, check with your doctor to rule out any medical conditions.
If you leave with a clean bill of health, you may be suffering from the consequences of unrelenting stress, without adequate recovery. Luckily, simple, accessible practices can help.
It’s not realistic (or even ideal) to obliterate all stress. But you can turn some stressors down a few notches. Your first step: Identify your areas of stress, using the Stress Web, below, as a guide.
To make this easy, you might download and print out the web so you can color in the areas based on how much stress they deliver.
Let’s say you’re training hard in the gym several days a week. Then you might color in all four sections of the physical part of the circle.
On the other hand, maybe you’re not dealing with any of the financial stressors. In that case, you might not color any of those in.
Once you see which areas pose the most stress, brainstorm ways to reduce those areas of stress.
And know that it’s not always about the big things.
For example, our client, Zahra, noticed that her environmental and mental dimensions of the stress web were particularly high.
After some thought, she made a couple changes. She:
▶ bought noise-cancelling headphones to drown out her household
▶ installed apps on her computer to block certain websites during periods of the day
Those strategies allowed her to cut down on unproductive distractions and focus on her work tasks.
After a month, Zahra was feeling more clear-headed, and actually started enjoying her workday more. Plus, she had way more energy. She hadn’t realized how depleting all those competing distractions had been.
The more stress we deal with, the more we need to prioritize recovery.
Think of your “mojo reserve” as a jug: Stress drains it, and recovery fills it back up.
Recovery can take many forms. In working with over 100,000 clients, however, we’ve noticed that the following three practices offer an enormous impact.
Consume enough calories to support your body and activity levels, with a balance of macronutrients (including carbs!).
Bonus points if you can eat slowly and mindfully.
To prevent cortisol shifts and spikes in insulin that perpetuate adrenal issues, establish a relaxing eating environment that you regularly enjoy throughout the day with balanced portions.
And, of course, thoroughly chew your food to improve digestion, nutrient absorption and calm the central nervous system. simple trick would be to set a timer for 20 minutes at the start of each meal. In other words, pace yourself and mindfully consume every meal for a period of 20 minutes over the next 30 days.
Mindful eating is way better than dieting and can transform your body as well as improve your health significantly. As many of you who've shared a meal with me, this has always been my approach.
If your intense spin or CrossFit sessions feel more like they’re breaking you down than building you up, lower the intensity and/or duration.
Schedule in recovery days, and consider replacing some of your more intense training sessions with gentle, restorative movement that activates the parasympathetic “calming” nervous system. Think: yoga, tai chi, walks in nature (or “forest-bathing” if you prefer!), stretching, and foam rolling.
While we can’t force ourselves to fall asleep on cue, we do have a lot of control over our sleep hygiene—the habits and routines we engage in around sleep.
Experiment with the following strategies and see what works for you:
Remember, “experiment” means to try it. Any individual practice may or may not be useful. But you won’t ever really know unless you make a consistent effort to give it a shot.
You can always decide to stop doing it if it doesn’t make a difference. In fact, when I make a change or try something new, I like to say, “It’s forever for now.”
Adopting this “nothing has to be permanent” mindset might help you be more open to experimentation.
When you face stressful events—with a strong mindset, relationships, and recovery practices—you grow stronger.
If you’ve been stuck in a downward spiral, small improvements can give you some much needed energy, and hope for a better future.
Eventually, stress can feel like surfing: Challenging and dynamic, without pulling you under.
Remember the importance of vitamin D3, K2, and alternating between your selection of KOKOBÉRNA tisanes to harness immune wellness and holistically prevent adrenal insufficiency. Without these holistic protocol, the immune system is vulnerable to outside attacks resulting in frequent, acute bacterial and viral infections.
This mutually accentuating combination improves digestive and mucosal immunity to build advanced immune complexes that protect us from chronic stress and prevent autoimmune responses from developing. And, never forget the value of good nutrition for adrenal health.
In Good Health.
May you always be #kokobernabeautiful.
Belinda Ephraim, Certified Holistic Nutrition Coach
Book a virtual consultation with me
1. Cadegiani FA, Kater CE. Adrenal fatigue does not exist: a systematic review. BMC Endocr Disord. 2016 Aug 24;16(1):48.
2. Stadje R, Dornieden K, Baum E, Becker A, Biroga T, Bösner S, et al. The differential diagnosis of tiredness: a systematic review. BMC Fam Pract. 2016 Oct 20;17(1):147.
3. Bornstein SR, Allolio B, Arlt W, Barthel A, Don-Wauchope A, Hammer GD, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2016 Feb;101(2):364–89.
4. Charmandari E, Nicolaides NC, Chrousos GP. Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet. 2014 Jun 21;383(9935):2152–67.
5. Husebye ES, Allolio B, Arlt W, Badenhoop K, Bensing S, Betterle C, et al. Consensus statement on the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency. J Intern Med. 2014 Feb;275(2):104–15.
Precision Nutrition. What is adrenal fatigue? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.precisionnutrition.com/what-is-adrenal-fatigue
“My aesthetician wants me to buy the full line of retail products—seven different products! There is no way I am going to keep up with such an intense routine. Is there anything simpler I can do between appointments?”
Of course, there is! A ten-step skin care routine certainly isn’t for everyone—never mind for those who might just be starting out on their skin care journey. But keep in mind there is a balance. Do you need a million skin care steps and products? No. The truth is there is no miracle one-size-fits-all product that will address all your unique skin care needs. However, your skin should have a “routine”; a consistent ritual of some sort.
Everyone needs a good well-made high-quality cleanser; something you can use anytime of day to gently wash away all the sweat, dirt, grime, makeup, sunscreen, and bacteria that has accumulated on the surface of your skin without stripping the essential hydro-lipidic barrier that supports the skin’s neuro-sensory biome. If you are not washing your face at least once a day, and especially at nighttime, you are allowing the collective dirt, makeup, and grime to slowly, over time, penetrate your pores or simply pile up, which can lead to acne breakouts, blackheads, or dull-looking skin, all of which accelerate the skin’s aging process.
The next must-have is a hydrating moisturizer such as my HEALER’S GOLD™ Oil. It does not matter if your skin is super oily and acneic or if your skin seems perfectly fine as it is. Having a moisturizer that is hydrating and supports the skin's lipid barrier also allows moisture to stay longer on the skin. This is key to ensuring your skin’s acidic pH levels are balanced and healthy, and that you are providing your skin with a protective barrier so it can continue what it does best: protecting you.
The last non-negotiable product—no ifs, ands, or buts about it—is sunscreen. The good news is that it can be absolutely incorporated in your skin care routine after your moisturizer and before makeup, if any. Having an everyday sunscreen is not only incredibly important for preventing harmful, sun-related issues such as malignant melanoma, but it helps prevent other undesirable effects such as deep wrinkling, brown pigmentation spots, cracked/dry skin, and so much more.
Once you’ve gotten these basics down and are feeling more comfortable honoring a consistent skin care ritual, then and only then do we recommend moving on to the fun stuff! Depending on your skin concerns and goals, you can ask your KOKOBÉRNA Aesthetician about adding exfoliants, chemical peels, masks, or serums to your routine, and maybe even skin care tools that are safe for in-home use. The possibilities are truly endless, but everyone must start somewhere. Consistently using these three products is a great place to do just that and experience healthy glowing skin.
Skin care products to keep your skin happy and healthy.
The adage “you are what you eat” has remained a popular saying because it is indeed true. Your daily food choices directly affect your health, and your health directly affects the condition of your skin. You can see your KOKOBÉRNA Aesthetician every three weeks, but if you fill your body with junk food and soda, you probably won’t see the results you expect. Pairing your beloved KOKOBÉRNA skin care products with nutrient-dense food and water, water, water will directly improve the health—and look—of your skin.
I hope in this stressful time when self-care is so important, you can take some tips from our journal articles to keep your body—and your skin—happy and healthy.
May you always be #kokobernabeautiful.
++++++
REFERENCES
https://www.kokoberna.com/products/skincare-routine-essential
https://www.kokoberna.com/products/bespoke-organic-facial
https://www.kokoberna.com/products/functional-nutrition-coach
https://www.kokoberna.com/blogs/journal
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-23996/your-skin-microbiome-why-its-essential-for-a-healthy-glow.html
http://www.finelinesmagazine.com/i/1320352-volume-2-issue-4/4?
https://askthescientists.com/skin-microbiome/#toggle-id-1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3535073/
https://www.nature.com/articles/nrmicro.2017.157
https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/beauty-style/what-to-know-about-your-skin-microbiome
https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/skin-microbiome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6101359/
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2019-04-22/even-clorox-and-unilever-want-the-booming-bacteria-business-to-thrive
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-07432-8
https://mbio.asm.org/content/10/4/e00839-19
the right skin care routine consistent steps consistency is key therapeutic organic skincare products from West Africa
]]>Skin that glows and is free of blemishes is basically a sign of consistent healthy habits, a healthy gut, and a balanced mental state.
To maintain clear healthy skin is not necessarily a result of things or products we use occasionally but more the things we do, and the products we use, consistently every single day and night... because we are worth it.
We love Marie Forleo's take on being consistently consistent as we navigate not just healthy skin but self-care across all aspects of our life.
To drink water is important because water is essential for whole body health and important for skin specifically. One major reason is natural water loss from the skin. In dermatology, this is called trans epidermal water loss (TEWL).
Water is constantly evaporating into air and even if you are living in a humid climate, perspiration of the skin increases dryness. Evaporation is even faster if you live in dry, arid, polluted environments and even more so, in airplanes and post-workouts.
Why is this important? The water reserves in your body are always used first for life-essential metabolic activities. If you are not drinking enough water, not only does your body struggle to function properly, but your skin also takes a back seat. It ends up dehydrated and less plump because intra-cellular hydration is an important component that gives skin its volume. With less water for the body to detoxify, excrete, and cleanse, the more skin looks dull and suffers more, like your internal organs.
A lot of people know that the skin is the largest organ, yet a lot of people don’t think of the skin as an essential living organ that is constantly renewing itself every single day; they just think it’s an outer covering that’s there to protect them, to keep everything out. Another fun fact is that the skin plays a significant role as part of the complex immune system housing an estimated twenty billion T cells which control skin microbes and communicate with the rest of the immune system (lymphatic, respiratory, lymphocytes, spleen, and the gut) to distribute the cells to fight against attacks on the immune system. Which is why, here at KOKOBÉRNA, our holistic approach doesn’t separate but inextricably links the brain + gut + skin axis as a vehicle to realize one's beauty + wisdom + well-being™. As scientific research catches up and uncovers the correlations between the brain (hormonal balance and emotional states) + gut microbiota (and the role of adequate nutrition) + systemic skin neuro-sensory response, the imbalance of these overlapping mechanisms oftentimes associated with psoriasis, hormonal acne, depression, hot flashes, mood swings, and anxiety will be things of the past so we all can live longer, healthy lives.
A toner does not add water to the skin. Hyaluronic acid does not add water to the skin. Neither does niacinamide nor vitamin C nor retinol nor any trendy ingredient. The bottom line is that skin gets its water from “internal sources” – what we eat and drink. What a high-quality toner, serum, or moisturizer does is hold on to that water longer. So, you need to drink water AND use high-quality therapeutic skincare products for healthy, glowing skin. With this support, the neuro-sensory connection to the brain allows the skin barrier to remain calm, continuously renew itself, efficiently get rid of dead skin cells (includes buildup of pollutants, free radicals, residual makeup, and sunscreen not properly removed), and hold on to moisture longer.
From a product perspective we would recommend specifically for healthy glowing skin and to even the complexion: DIVINE ORIGIN™ Cleansing Milk, DIVINE ORIGIN™ Exfoliating Toner, DIVINE ORIGIN™ Radiance Mist, and our beloved HEALER’S GOLD™ Face Oil.
DIVINE ORIGIN™ Cleansing Milk is a daily exfoliating cleanser that gives you both the chemical exfoliation and the hydration your skin needs. It has a lot of humectants (water-binding ingredients) such as South African Cape Aloe, non-GMO Vegetable Glycerin, and organic fruit enzymes. You know, enzymes function as catalysts in the cleansing process attaching themselves to other ingredients to accelerate breakdown of dirt, grime, sticky makeup, pollutants, and to get rid of all the congestion on the skin. It also has organic willow bark extract, which is a herbal source of salicylic beta-hydroxy acid, a surprisingly gentle oil-soluble exfoliant that increases the shedding of dead skin cells, minimizes the appearance of pigmentation spots, and improves blocked or clogged pores. The aloe-based cleanser also has a lot of certified organic marula seed oil and rose flower oil which helps to detoxify your skin and provide intense nourishment throughout the cleansing process. Another wonderful thing is that the cleansing milk doesn’t contain detergents, sulfates, or alcohol that “strip” the skin and instead supports the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier keeping the pH level intact which is why this does well for most skin including oily, acneic, and sensitive skin types.
The other product I really love is the DIVINE ORIGIN™ Exfoliating Toner. What this toner does is that it corrects dark spot issues by taking off hard to remove dead skin cells, increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, minimizing the appearance of razor bumps and breakouts, and evening out the complexion. Certified organic skin-beautifying herbs such as mallow, lady’s mantle, and cowslip are excellent alternatives to licorice and endocrine-disrupting hydroquinone found in most skin-brightening products marketed to people of Asian, African, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern heritage with pigmented skin issues. To support the skin’s detoxification pathways, we macerate an herbal blend of certified organic skin-protective herbs to include burdock, dandelion, and echinacea. And lastly, a premium cocktail of restorative plant-based alpha+beta+poly-hydroxy acids in a nocturnal essence that retextures and smooths the skin while you sleep:
Glycolic acid derived from organic sugarcane penetrates deeply and stimulates fibroblast cells to aid in collagen production.
Lactic acid keeps the skin soft and acts like Pac Man on the surface of the skin, gently eating old glue between cells on the skin’s surface. This is especially important for maturing skin that is resistant to exfoliation.
Mandelic acid derived from almonds is antibacterial without harshly drying out the skin.
Citric acid helps to reverse the signs of sun damage while strengthening the top layer of the skin.
Tartaric and malic acid are derived from grapes and apples and aid in the skin’s ability to efficiently respire.
Salicylic acid mentioned above and used in our cleansing milk loosens the glue that holds excess sebum on the skin and a much better alternative to benzoyl peroxide, per EU cosmetic regulation standards which bans the use of benzoyl peroxide in skincare products.
Lastly, gluconolactone acid strengthens the skin’s barrier function and allows the skin to reduce redness issues. It also inhibits elastase, the cause of skin sagging.
Since the skin’s surface is naturally acidic and an oil-based structure, this illuminating toning essence is like taking your face to the gym.
If your skin is showing signs of aging; if you suffer from blemishes, spots, or acne; or if your main concern is dull, dehydrated, or dry skin, this product is all about the exterior texture of the skin—where it becomes smoother-textured, softer, younger-looking, evenness of skin tone is clearer, and skin feels firmer with more elasticity. Because of the potential increase in sunburn cell formation following the use of acidic toners, we recommend using this product three times a week as an overnight mask and to completely remove it from the skin during the morning cleansing ritual.
The other product I truly, really love is the DIVINE ORIGIN™ Radiance Mist which is basically three things: a floral mist that jumpstarts the hydration process of your skincare ritual, a moisture-protection mist that keeps HEALER’S GOLD™ skincare treatments on your skin all-day, and a neutralizer when applied after the acidic toner. It contains the same ratios of lipids (oils), proteins (peptides), and polysaccharides (aloe, turmeric, frankincense, and rose hydrosols) found in your skin cells. A lot of people ask why the KOKOBÉRNA skincare range doesn’t have a heavy eye-cream; the mist is why. It ensures your skin stays hydrated without the need for heavier products because as the skin ages, it gets thinner so richer skin/eye products are not favorable because they make your eyes puffy; and puffy does not equate to plump or dewy. Back to the mist… use it alone, after cleansing, under serums, over serums, under face oil, over face oil, under makeup, over makeup, on an airplane, in your car, at your desk, when it’s hot, when it’s cold… wherever and whenever! If in doubt as to the hydration levels of your skin, our KOKOBÉRNA mist is a savior for dry, dehydrated skin.
If you are in your late 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s
While antioxidant-specific serums are important, the skin is better off with a pigmentation serum that reduces the appearance of sunspots and age spots while boosting collagen production with bio-active peptides and protecting against water loss that comes with hormonal changes in the body.
In Part Two of this series, I discuss how creating rituals that support the brain and gut can significantly contribute to healthy, glowing skin and increase efficacy of the skincare products we use.
Know that we love you and may you always be #kokobernabeautiful.
Sources
https://www.amazon.com/skinCARE-ultimate-no-nonsense-Caroline-Hirons/dp/0008375526
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.01060.x
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZNnKzVS1Yw
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/transepidermal-water-loss
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332220312579
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038963/
https://www.kokoberna.com/blogs/journal/basic-function-of-the-immune-system
organic skin care products cleansing milk balm healthy glowing skin brain gut axis immunity stress
]]>The endeavor for equality and equity is real with the solution to transcend in love resting in each and every one of us.
The world needs more women to be alchemists; transmuting the pain and dissolving antiquated narratives of victimhood. To step into and fully embrace our individual feminine power so we can collectively create and participate in a gentler world.
We are not only more than capable of this quest, we are WOMAN. As we take leadership of ourselves and compassionately stand in our truth, we begin to free ourselves from the perceived and real limitations.
It means we might have to take a step back from the current approach and reevaluate. It means we must inspire and uplift each other in every moment. It means we must deeply honor ourselves and take the time to heal past traumas always seeking grace, so our inner compass is rock solid and aligned with Spirit.
It means we become more unified and stand together as comrades and not competitors, hand-in-hand, and march — into a gentler world, heads held high, truly knowing our collective worth as a coherent energy wave that can shift and awaken humanity.
It means when both WOMAN and MAN holistically balance their masculine and feminine energies, we experience an awakened dynamic, an equal give and take.
When enlightened men who have done the work of deeply healing their boyhood fears and life traumas, compassionately step up in solidarity and speak up; because they too have grandmothers, mothers, sisters, daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and aunties whom they love dearly without fear, without anger, without hate, without manipulation, without abuse.
The bottom line is, we all must recognize that half the world’s population of 8 billion is WOMAN - birthing and raising the other half.
So, every day when you see a WOMAN, make your heart smile and send blessings her way knowing, beyond a shadow of doubt, that God made WOMAN in his image and likeness with so much joy in his heart just as equally as he made MAN.
A short essay written by Belinda Kokoeka Bassey Ephraim, originally published on Medium, August, 2020.
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#women #culture #health #life #humanrights #humanity #equity #leadership #philosophy #kokoberna
© 2020 Belinda Kokoeka Bassey Ephraim
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"As time goes on, we produce fewer lipids, and our skin needs help adding them back in order to promote a healthy lipid barrier, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration."
Our skin is a complicated, multi-function organ that is part of the immune system and depends on fatty substances that are made of lipids to help us prevent inflammation and water loss in order to maintain a healthy and vibrant complexion.
A lipid technically means a chemical molecule or compound that is not soluble in water. There are various types of lipids, such as fatty acids, phospholipids, glycolipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, waxes, and steroids.
Lipids are essential components of skin and play a crucial role in the skin’s barrier function. They also play an important role in cell-to-cell signaling. They also help in strengthening and maintaining the skin's elasticity.
The lipids in skin are found in:
Because epidermal lipids are so crucial to the skin’s barrier function, in addition to water, carbohydrates, proteins, and polysaccharides, the skin barrier is often referred to as the hydro-lipidic or lipid barrier.
Lipids make up more than 50% of cell membranes in humans, animals, and plants. When we are younger, the oils in question are automatically produced and calibrated by our skin. The skin’s ‘lipid barrier’ is designed to protect you – from everything and supports proper immune function. It also traps moisture so you don’t dry out. Water evaporates from skin no matter what, but the lipid barrier slows down the evaporation rate. However, as time goes on and as we age, the skin produces fewer lipids, and needs our help adding them back in order to promote a healthy lipid barrier, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration.
"Your skin belongs to you. Treat it gently and with respect. After all, it is your calling card and the first representation of who you are."
The outer layer of skin is made up of more than 50% fat. Skin with a strong barrier that doesn’t age as quickly has retained its lipid composition and is moist, plump, soft, and resistant (fewer problems).Skin that is aging, consistently dry, always oily, or experiencing breakouts indicates the skin’s lipid ratios have diminished over time or there is an imbalance from using skin-stripping products that are oil-free, matte-look, etc.
Oils, fats, and butters* are a luxurious, indispensable step in our founder’s daily regimen. Used for centuries by Africans, because high-foaming surfactant-based ingredients that strip the skin are not the norm on the continent, lipids delicately clean without stripping your skin of moisture, which is the first step that promotes exactly the type of graceful aging we’re after. Applying lipid-rich skin care products to your skin makes a noticeable difference from anti-inflammatory cleansing oils to moisturizing face oils to skin-firming body oils.
Note: The delicate nature of skin on the face juxtaposed against the unique ester of raw/heavy/thick shea butter or beeswax products makes it hard for some skin types to break down the ester into lipids that easily penetrate the skin barrier and help deliver active ingredients from your treatments to the granular layer of the epidermis where younger cells reside. We recommend using heavy/thick shea butter to moisturize body or hair not the face.
The entire range of KOKOBÉRNA is oil-based, therapeutic, and custom-formulated using potentized indigenous botanical seed oils that contain specific ratios of lipids similar to those found in normal, healthy skin.
There’s a common misconception about oil-based skincare products: that they’re only right for a certain skin type, and women with oily or blemished complexions shouldn’t be using them because they’ll further clog your pores. False. The proper oils have the ability to dissolve bad oils, helping to preserving the pH of your skin and regulate blemishes for a well-balanced complexion. Despite what we’ve been led to believe, skin that is oily or prone to breakouts is actually dry skin whose lipid levels have been depleted and the sebaceous glands need repairing from having used products that are "oil-free" and stripped the skin over a period of time.
As we transition seasons, taking the time to invest in a routine that incorporates therapeutic nutrient-rich botanical skincare oils and balms that are nutritive and reparative, helps support skin so it stays hydrated, supple, and radiant for a lifetime.
May you always be #kokobernabeautiful.
natural organic luxury skincare, beauty tips, cleansing oil, face oil, body oil, how to use skincare oils, how to use face oils and serum
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Growing up in Nigeria, West Africa as part of a monarchy that still exists today, the unique underpinnings and practices of old are all encoded into the DNA of our founder, Belinda Kǒkóèkà Bassey Ephraim; naturally, many of these same ideals form the philosophical core of KOKOBÉRNA.
As we close this year and look towards the beginning of a New Year, Belinda shares some of the life lessons she learned from her ancestors of Old Calabar Kingdom, including her parents, and the values she carries forward.
We hold sacred the divine wisdom of nature through the philosophy of beauty. Like the rare flora and fauna that flourish nowhere else on the entire planet, the luxuriant tropical rain forests, the earth colored a vibrant ochre, the dryness of summer juxtaposed against heavy rains, and the world’s greatest spectacle of natural resources, KOKOBÉRNA symbolizes the refined virtues of ancient West African beauty rituals and traditional lifestyle.
Since the early 1600s and throughout ages past, my ancestors, the traditional Efịk monarchs of Old Calabar Kingdom, created divine skincare treatments for daughters of aristocratic families during rites of passage. Here, and for a period of time, the young women learnt the fine art of enhancing their beauty, nurturing their skin, and taking care of oneself.
Rare, native, plant materials handpicked from across the savannah, valleys, and rainforests of West Africa were transported over vast lands in precious gourds and vessels. These native plant materials sourced from nature were meticulously prepared to create healing medicines, perfumes, and cosmetics.
The finished products had an aura of rarity, of exclusiveness, and of the divine; to make the women attractive and alluring, to restore vitality and good health, and as a means of venerating the gods as they crossed over from adolescence into womanhood.
This ancestry, my ancestry, forms a significant part of the medium through which I elegantly unite traditionalism and alchemy to provide a high-level of craftsmanship and exceptional level of quality in our skincare treatments and wellness lifestyle products. Everything you see, feel, touch, and experience comes directly from my lineage to you.
As a young woman, I was privileged to grow up in a world where the power of African queens is legendary and passed down; from the Kemetic women of the 18th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt starting with Hatsheput who rightfully reigned as Pharaoh at the peak of its power, to the Hausa warrior Queen Amina who ruled northern Nigeria, and Queen Mọ́remí Àjàsorò of the Yoruba Kingdom of Ile Ife in Nigeria.
The female monarchs of Old Calabar Kingdom and these female trailblazers across the African continent. My grandmother. Her mother before her. My foremothers. My mother. My sisters. My aunties. My extended family of sister-friends across the globe. All of these women, since the beginning of time, are the wind beneath my wings and form the backbone behind the KOKOBÉRNA mission: to uplift and delight our customers.
A force for good, we pledge 5% of every sale to mobilize equity and to elevate humanity with a focus on women and young girls of tomorrow.
"Speak the truth and speak it ever. Cost it what it may. For he who has the wrong thing done, does the wrong thing still."
Ever a renaissance man, my father would recite this quote which struck a deep chord within me as a child and has always been the guiding light to always speak and trust my truth, come what may.
At KOKOBÉRNA we are guided by the belief that we all deserve skincare treatments and wellness lifestyle products of uncompromising quality that is supremely therapeutic and addresses the most visible signs of aging, strengthens the skin’s resilience, and safely delivers results; for our customers today and for generations to come.
The fact is, I am just like you; a customer who deeply desired effective and well-made products that were unequivocally indulgent and extraordinary at supporting not only the state of my skin but that of my health and that is exactly what I did.
Blessed with an exquisite lineage that has withstood the test of time; the selection of native plant materials from across the savannah, valleys, and rainforests of West Africa and around the world; the special care in preserving ancient formulating techniques that increase the response frequency of the plant phyto-nutrients; and 400+ year-old heritage library of ancestral herbal remedies, I thank you for the ongoing support and invite you to discover these handcrafted luxuries for your personal well-being.
In Gratitude,
Belinda Kǒkóèkà Bassey Ephraim
Founder + CEO, KOKOBÉRNA
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You see, woman is like nature (divine feminine). She has to remain ever-active (divine masculine). When her dual energies are balanced, she is the light in a family and the uplifter of her tribe and society. From birth, she is adorned with the sacred qualities of love, sacrifice, faith, tolerance, goodwill, and hard work. This is her highest religion – her sādhanā (Sanskrit साधना; Tibetan: སྒྲུབ་ཐབས་, THL: druptap; Chinese: 修行; pinyin: xiūxíng).
Yet these noble qualities, when left unchecked, could make her servile in how she shows up in the world resulting in overwhelm and forcing her to constantly give without feeling her own cup, exhausting her mind, fatiguing her body, and consequently, like a lamp running out of oil, her natural spark lessens and dims.
In ancient West African kingdoms and across the African continent, women who nurture their light and energies are divine healers and prime movers of society. They honor sacred rituals directed at ensuring good health, respecting their natural rhythms, healing their bodies, curing infertility, removing impurities on themselves and in their homes, and protecting their loved ones. These women manifested as warriors and queens in ancient times, intuitively understood self-care rituals were necessary to preserve and prolong human life; for without good health where body and mind are in harmony, there was no wealth - to her as an individual and to the tribe.
In appreciating these traditional philosophies, our salvation as women, in today’s modern society, lies in learning how to first balance our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being in order to be fulfilled in our life’s work and be the light of our tribe.
YEMỌJA is a Yoruba West African Goddess of Water and Òrìṣà of motherhood power and feminine principles revered worldwide as the origin goddess in the Yoruba pantheon of gods and goddesses. At one with nature, just as a river flows into the ocean, she is a veritable oasis of calm. The ultimate refuge and bespoke experience for remarkably high-powered women seeking to reduce burnout, to holistically take charge of their health, to nurture body + mind + heart™ in harmony with nature.
KOKOBÉRNA pays homage taking a bespoke approach to your personal well-being offering YEMỌJA by KOKOBÉRNA™, a West African-inspired transformative health experience.
A restorative membership featuring an edited selection of:
To ensure the deepest holistic and total health transformation, members will also receive:
YEMỌJA by KOKOBÉRNA™ expands on our West African heritage of traditional living and is an exquisite gift of luxurious white-glove indulgence so you feel happy, balanced, and more purposeful as you move through life with a sustainable level of resiliency, a healthy body, and personal well-being.
To experience the truest feeling of well-being, please visit the order page here.
May you always be #kokobernabeautiful
yemoja kokoberna home spa health lifestyle wellbeing wellness functional nutrition women female executives burnout membership monthly annual subscription beauty box self care self love self compassion
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The African proverb states “A good name is better than riches.” In ancient Africa, and in today’s modern African societies, when a child is born, its name is a reflection of its essence, its crown, what it is destined to do in life.
A child’s name is usually not ordained until sometime after birth where the personality is better determined and only during a naming ceremony where every member of the tribe comes bearing gifts and to partake of this sacred rite of passage offering prayers of long life and prosperity over the child and pay homage to the child’s ancestors. In some instances, names are chosen not by parents but by the elder men and women of the tribe because the meaning of the name is of significance considering the date and time of birth and the child’s lineage.
In the grandest of fashion, the child’s name is announced to the entire tribe with a detailed breakdown and explanation on the meaning of the name. The child is then raised high above the head and presented to Olofi/Àbàsì/the Supreme Being. In all cases across the continent, members of the tribe spend the rest of the day offering symbolic gifts from nature such as the revered indigenous kola nut, cowries, and coral as symbolism of prosperity and to prepare the child for its future. There is much dancing, feasting, and joyful celebrations; for the child is now allowed to share in the full privileges and duties of the tribe.
Kǒkóèkà – our founder's tribal name has a rich ancient history in the Efịk culture, one of many tribes and languages in Nigeria, and translates “mother’s daughter” and Bernadette - named after Saint Bernadette of Lourdes that was given during our founder’s coming of age rite of confirmation, translates “brave as a bear”. Therefore, KOKOBÉRNA “mother’s daughter – strong and brave one”.
It is our belief the origin of our name reflects the essence of our brand and its heritage; an ideal that mirrors the substance of the KOKOBÉRNA Woman – a contemporary woman who harnesses both her feminine and masculine qualities in how she effects change in her family, her tribe, the world.
Similar to the complex, opulent origin of KOKOBÉRNA and its beautiful meaning that transcends the sands of time, our proprietary formulas and superb craftsmanship utilize a portfolio of ancient indigenous African botanicals, nocturnal flowers, and medicinal bush plants to create an exquisite collection of natural organic beauty and wellness remedies that promise a deep-rooted holistic sense of well-being and vitality.
May you always be #kokobernabeautiful.]]>At a higher level of consciousness, the body’s DNA and RNA are bacteria and virus and they are us. The co-existence becomes a problem when human bodies age, have a weak immune system, or not properly and consistently taken care of over time. A healthy nutrient-dense diet, a healthy lifestyle, and a body void of as many toxins as possible is the first and foremost defense. Here are some of our favorite proven strategies for building an unstoppable immune system.
As we learnt in Part 1 of this series, keeping the lymphatic fluid moving throughout the body is of utmost importance. A congested lymphatic system can lead to the accumulation of waste, debris, dead blood cells, pathogens, toxins, and infected cells, along with the inadequate flow of crucial compounds such as white blood cells and fat-soluble vitamins. Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system does not have a heart to pump its fluids therefore the flow of lymph fluid depends on the motions of the muscles and joints during any physical activity. In addition to engaging in low-level physical activity throughout the day and occasional vigorous exercise sessions, the best ways to ensure that your lymph system doesn’t get clogged include the following:
The immune system is an “organ” similar to our lungs and liver and there are things you can do to keep the immune system healthy. Regular touching is one of them, such as receiving regular massages on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Certain foods do help immune health as well.
Some of the best foods that support immune health are:
Our rationale in formulating our BIO-IMMUNITY™ organic herbal blend was to find medicinal plants that are scientifically proven to counteract the specific actions of viruses and then to cross-correlate those plants in order to choose those that were frequently used and have a long-standing tradition of use in ancient cultures for these kinds of viral infections and to help strengthen the immune system^.
Certified Organic Umckaloabo Medicinal Bush Root in BIO-IMMUNITY™ Tea
The medicinal herb blend had to do the following:
The *certified organic medicinal herbs we chose for BIO-IMMUNITY™ organic herbal blend that fit the above criteria include: Chinese Skullcap*, Moringa Leaf*, Kudzu Root*, Dong Quai Root*, Whole Elder Berries*, Licorice Root*, Rhodiola Root*, Astragalus*, Barberry Root*, Umckaloabo Root*, Poke Root*, Cleavers*, Turmeric Root*, Oregano*, And Eucalyptus Leaf*.
Even with the proper foundation of healthy eating, there are days we are unable to get our full daily quota of complete nutrition, so cover these dietary gaps with clean bioavailable supplements to maintain digestive wellness and support immunity as well as boost energy, mood, and protect skin.
Vitamin C-containing foods and supplements. The best, most natural sources of Vitamin C have one thing in common: they are all plant foods. Although most mammals can produce vitamin C in the liver, humans and guinea pigs cannot, but plants have a rich, highly bioavailable source of vitamin C. All citrus fruits, including orange, grapefruit, lime, and lemon, are excellent sources including many non-citrus fruits such as papayas, strawberries, pineapples, kiwis, cantaloupes, and raspberries. Green leafy vegetables such as Swiss chard and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower are also excellent sources, as is parsley. Essentially, the purity and quality of vitamin C is more important than its bioavailability. Taking 200 to 500mg oral vitamin C during cold and flu season is sufficient for most people in addition to eating your vitamin C. Alternatively, if you want to take things up a level for vitamin C, then you can do as I do and get a quarterly high-dose slow infusion of vitamin C intravenously and the rest of the time eat your vitamin C.
Zinc-containing foods and supplements. Zinc is an essential micronutrient found in many foods, like meat, cheese, and especially seafood, particularly oysters. An essential micronutrient that over three hundred enzymes and over one thousand transcription factors in your body that require zinc for proper function. Not only does zinc modulate cell-mediated immunity, it also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can provide potent support for the common cold BUT the type and dose matters significantly.
Here is a recommended protocol for using zinc:
The power of the mind and our emotions plays a powerful role in our physical well-being. It turns out that Harvard is at the forefront of the research on the biology of emotion and its impact on both physical and mental health. The ultimate question is this: How can you slow down before your body forces you to slow down? In understanding how our thoughts, stressors, emotions, and beliefs affect our biology, we suggest below a few techniques and tools that can help you to use your body as your own pharmacy and heal yourself from the inside out. A quick list below but will expand upon each in a future article:
As in everything else in life, consistently practicing immune-supporting habits day after day, year after year, is truly what makes our immune system stay resilient which is especially relevant now.
In Good Health,
KOKOBÉRNA
Sources:
Buhner, Stephen Harrod. Herbal Antivirals: Natural Remedies for Emerging & Resistant Viral Infections (pp. 260-261). Storey Publishing, LLC.
Drexler M; Institute of Medicine (US). What You Need to Know About Infectious Disease. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2010. I, How Infection Works.
Greenfield, Ben. “Boundless.” Chapter 15. Owned Copy: Victory Belt Publishing, 2020. 346-348
Mani, Janice S et al. “Natural product-derived phytochemicals as potential agents against coronaviruses: A review.” Virus research vol. 284 (2020): 197989.
Matejuk, A. Skin Immunity. Arch. Immunol. Ther. Exp. 66, 45–54 (2018).
McLachlan, Craig Steven. “The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 are distinctly different paradigms.” Clinical hypertension vol. 26 14. 15 Jul. 2020.
Yoon MY, Yoon SS. Disruption of the Gut Ecosystem by Antibiotics. Yonsei Med J. 2018 Jan;59(1):4-12.
kokoberna, immune system function, immunity herbal tea, how to boost your immune system, how does the immune system work, what organs make up the immune system, elderberry, immunity, letting kids play outside can help boost their immune system
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