Omg! What an amazing weekend. I just have to write all this down because no amount of social media posts is going to encapsulate what has been the best Mind Body Sleep event yet. Nor will they be able to convey my excitability and gratitude towards all the local businesses and farmers that have made my weekend beyond epic.

To Nic, who I met outside Swan Valley Sisters local, organic produce stall this morning…4 years cancer free from stage 4 cancer, naturally. Bloody hell, I salute you and my heart is full from you taking the time to introduce yourself and share how you’re doing this, to have a chat and exchange recipes I jotted down on the roof of your car! Thank you thank you thank you.

How do you put into words a weekend that turns out to be one of your best in the 43 years you have been on this earth?

Mind Body Sleep is what kicked it off.

An event envisaged by local naturopath Kat Blake from Invigorate Naturopathy a few years ago. It came to fruition in May 2018, in time for Mother’s Day. It is now a regular, somewhat seasonal event. One, that, in itself is all I could wish for.

Mind Body Sleep is an afternoon for women to come together, take time for themselves and learn skills to really help themselves through the throws of day to day life. I love presenting at these events. I love sharing my knowledge on how to incorporate natural products into your life, how to find the toxins in your everyday products and why you want to know. Most importantly how to get back to basics, live simply and enjoy life and how to stay here, on this earth and enjoy being here.

The women and business owners who have previously been, and who were are a part of this event, you are amazing. Together we all seem to be putting pieces of the self care, enjoy life, puzzle together. Kat Blake, Lisa Mahon – Lava and Lavender Jewellery, Jodie Tapper – Vital Wellness Pilates, Nicola Hogan – Nicola Hogan Holistic Therapies, Rebecca Glorie – Rebecca Glorie Psychology, and Shannon Bush – Creative Possibility, made October’s MBS epic beyond words. Our chosen venue The Mallard Duck restaurant, just perfect.

Time and time again I heard attendees complimenting the surrounds, noticing the long neck turtles, the bird life, the stillness, the greenery, “we are so lucky to have this so close to the city”.

To top it off, so many local businesses rallied and donated such generous door prizes. 
Lyn – The Gifting Pot, Jen – Bowen therapy, Rebecca Glorie Psychology, Print West (gifted every attendee with a keep cup), amazing.  Kardia Skin & Body – Infared Sauna, Carla Thomas – Juicy Movement Book, Nicola Hogan – Massage/Reflexology Session, Invigorate Naturopathy – Consult, Lava and Lava Jewellery – handcrafted jewellery and us a Peace Of Mind duo.

What a day it was, on Western Australia’s small business day and during the month of mental health awareness. This event truly showed what it’s all about, supporting each other.

Many of the mind body sleep team extended their visit and stayed overnight in the swan valley and thanks to Allain, owner of The Mallard Duck, we were suggested Swan Valley Sisters. Gosh, from the moment Kat and I visited a few months ago, perfect.

A property where they farm using organic principles and where they open up to the public, on weekends, a well-stocked local produce stall selling spray free, organic and biodynamic local produce, a story comes with every piece of produce you buy, it’s just beautiful.

The connection to the land, to the grower is real.

I was in friggen heaven! But I want you to know that these hard-working, down to earth Aussies still hold down full time jobs during the week, tending to the farm after knock off, and on weekends. I know the day will come that they will just solely be running this beautiful piece of the valley. So make sure you book in your accommodation and go shopping at their produce stall on the weekends to support them.

Synchronicity or meant to be. I don’t know. But Tara and Anne-Marie source from the same farm I chose to when trialing a small organic produce stall in the grounds of Verissima House where my shop was situated, over 10 years ago. This farm Muchea Produce is run by Michelle and Mario, another amazing hard-working family, I think the first Biodynamic farm accredited here in WA (I could be wrong), never the less I remember myself or my Dad driving out to Muchea to pick up the freshly harvested (that morning) goodness to then make available to the hills folk at our stall. I was thrilled to hear they are still going strong.

This morning we woke and I was excited to get ready and walk to the produce shop at Swan Valley Sisters.

I couldn’t wait to get my hands-on local goodness. No chemicals, no unnecessary long road travel. Fresh, crisp, good for you, produce. As it’s meant to be.

To Tara and Anne-Marie, who own and run the property, you ladies are awesome. Your energy infectious and your coffee amazing. Kat hadn’t forgotten her barista skills and jumped behind the counter to help out when the busy shop got busier. This is what it’s about, small businesses helping and supporting one another.

I happened to notice a man sitting down inside, a massive smile on his face, his eyes, clear white and talking gratitude. Enjoying the morning. So content. This same man wandered outside to leave, and as he passed us all sitting in the sun enjoying a coffee struck up a conversation that will forever stay in my heart and one that I know will help many, many people in years to come.

Nic you are such a strength, such an amazing man. 4 years cancer free from stage 4 cancer! You conquered it naturally.

He overheard the word naturopath.

He felt the pull to say g’day, ..”are you Naturopaths? Have you ever cured cancer naturally?..”

Nic said no to chemotherapy and modern medicine when he was diagnosed. His words “chemotherapy would kill me, I knew that”. He shared what he has done to get himself to where he is, shared his recipes and whom he learnt from and what he does every morning to see himself alive and well, putting on weight and surviving. 4 years, far out, that is life, that is grabbing it and shaking it up and making the most of what he’s got! This is what it is all about. Learning, educating yourself, taking care of your health, taking it back and then giving forward. Far out! And all on our Mind Body Sleep weekend. Mind blowing for me.

Sometimes you just know things are meant to be, you are in the right spot at the right time. Thank you, Nic. Meeting you cemented in my heart that I was where I needed to be, where I was meant to be and in the company of those who were perfect for me. I was listening and very, very aware.

If you’d like to come along to our next MIND BODY SLEEP, pop your name on the list and be the first to know before ticket sales go live to the general public, save some $ and not miss out on your seat. 

My senses were on overload! And I loved it.

Surrounded by local produce, local farmers really set’s my soul alight. Sometimes we are lucky enough to discover that feeling. That feeling where you cannot stop smiling, where you know you are in the exact right spot and doing exactly what you love. That’s me right now.

Could it get any better? You betcha!

Returning to our chalet we were then out cutting our very own spray free asparagus and picking Valencia oranges. I harp on about getting your produce as close to nature as possible. How about that. No fresher.

I actually wound down the windows, turned up the radio and sang at the top of my lungs all the way home, up the hill, on my 45 minute drive home today.

I had to write it all down. I’m so happy.

So, this is my thank you to all who made this weekend one of my most memorable. For making me feel so darn good. For taking time for themselves. For helping us all realise that life is here for right now, so we might as well bloody enjoy it.

I look forward to the next Mind Body Sleep, date is set for 23rd March 2019. Early bird tickets will be on sale soon. If you want to know when flick us an email and we’ll pop you on the notification list. We look forward to seeing you there.

There’s a reason I do what I do and it’s all about getting back to basics and enjoying life.

I was lucky to grow up amongst the incredible raw environment of the Kimberley & Pilbara region of WA as a child. My Dad worked with the MRD, so he helped build the roads to link the town’s.

It meant we lived out of town in a caravan in the bush..amongst the red dirt and spinifex. I loved it.

I went on to study Conservation & Land Management and years later Environmental Management.

I learnt from our indigenous culture the magic of the bush – Bush medicine and bush tucker.

When I birthed my 1st child, 14 years ago & it was time to get all that was needed for him,I fell off my chair when I realised the chemical crap used to make it.

Why? How was this s**t going to help?

I knew we could do better. I knew the answer was in the bush.

I found, after a mammoth search, something that came close – Verissima. I studied aromatherapy & alternative healing.I improved every formulation to only include natural & organic ingredients. I created new products as a need arose.

I never looked back.

Now I want to help you throughout your transition into motherhood.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing in so many circumstances and it is wonderful for us Mums to help other Mums. It was all learning on the job fro me as I believe it is for just about every new Mum, so alongside my good friend and Naturopath, Kat Blake from Invigorate Naturopathy we decided to create an event that would new Mums and their bubs.

It’s going to be AMAZING! Learn so much, have us to help you and guide you and have a few laughs with your friends.

Sign Me Up – I Need To Get Back To Basics!

WHAT IS BACK TO BASICS FOR BUB AND NEW MUM’S ALL ABOUT?

Well if you’re feeling tired, stressed, suffering with sore, dry & cracked nipples and you have absolutely no time to go to the loo anymore let alone the time or energy to read a label on a nappy rash cream – this event, held at your home, is for you.

Kat & Nat’s Back to Basic’s for Bubs (and New Mums).

It’s very real for many women just how scary becoming a Mum can be. It’s a complete adjustment not just for you, but the whole household can be turned on its head. And somewhere in there you are supposed to be taking care of yourself. It can also be one of the most rewarding & fun times of your life!

Kat Blake – sleep, fatigue and stress specialist, is a qualified Naturopath and owner at Invigorate Naturopathy She’s dedicated to providing an alternative solution to addressing common problems experienced by many women prior to conception, during birthing and throughout the transition into motherhood. Kat may not be a mum yet but she’s a sleep magician and knows a thing or two about stress and how to help your body deal with the interrupted sleep from your new bundle of joy. She will share her tips on how to improve your energy and mental health so you don’t loose your shit at the never ending cries from bub & demands of parenthood.

Nat Wright – natural living advocate, owner and chief creator at Verissima Natural Skincare, has a big mission to teach women how to understand what’s in their skincare, so you can make better decisions; decisions that will positively affect your health and well being and that of your entire family. As far as Nat sees the world, it’s all about simple living – practical ways to live your best life. With over 14 years’ experience in natural health & wellness, Nat wants to help other women feel comfortable in their own skin & learn ways to help their family, naturally. You’ll come away from this event knowing how to quickly decipher the ingredients on any label (even when your sleep deprived) and whether it’s best left on the supermarket shelf or worth buying. Nat’s also a mum of 2 and has worked through allergies with her own children. It was during this time that her deep interest in natural healing was re-ignited.

Cost $27/pp

WHAT YOU ALL GET?

Free 5 minute iris analysis valued at $15

Back To Basics For New Mums Manual

Extensive information on how to find the toxins in your skincare

Extensive information on how to improve your sleep and improve health of your bub

Understanding on how to improve gut health

Tips on how to simply reduce the toxic load in your home

Us, in your home, a safe non-judgemental & warm environment for learning

WHAT THE LUCKY HOST ALSO GET’S?

By being our gorgeous host you receive a free Verissima product of your choice. Verissima is handmade, by Nat herself, from real ingredients providing you with a safe, healthy option for your family’s skin and wellbeing.

You’ll also receive a free 45 minute Naturopath consult with Kat valued at $110.

You’ll also have loads of tips and suggestions that we provide for you to implement immediately, and an excuse to catch up with your friends!

We’ll also be going a little deeper by helping you understand how to improve gut health for both you and bub – which can help prevent food intolerances, allergies such as asthma, eczema and hay fever.

Are you excited to learn all of this?

If this really interests you but don’t want to be travelling out in the cold & rainy winter weather then Kat & Nat are happy to come to you! We’re here to help you get back to basics and enjoy your new life with your bub.

Every attendee will receive a free mini iris reading valued at $15 along with our Back To Basics For New Mum manual.

Places are being kept minimal to ensure you get maximum benefit from this event

If this sounds like something you need- gather at least 10 of your closest, new mum friends and organise a get together at your home on Friday 29th June at 10am – 12pm.

Your bub and your friends are more than welcome.

Sign Me Up – I Need To Get Back To Basics!

Dangerous beauty products! Nothing new right?

Every year more and more research comes out that is proving the abhorrent dangers of using chemicals in our personal care products. After just publishing our latest email series on how to find the toxins in your skin care & why you want to know, I was reading further articles on the safety of our personal care products. What I read astounded me and had me walking out the room in disgust.

Why is this still happening? Why are companies allowed to manufacture such deadly cocktails?

What I find shocking and really had me raising my eyebrows this morning is that according to the medical paper – “Maternal use of personal care products during pregnancy and risk of testicular germ cell tumours in sons” published on February 18th 2018 is that –

by a woman applying a face moisturiser more than once a week, yes, only more than once a week was “associated with a significantly increased risk of Testicular Germ Cell Tumours in sons”.

Testicular Cancer – According to the Cancer Council of Australia Testicular Cancer is the 2nd most common Cancer in young men (18-39)! Is there a link here?

 The reason behind these findings this is that a lot of the everyday face moisturisers available to us are filled with known Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, EDC’s.

Endocrine Disruptors are chemicals that drastically alter or destroy the structure of your Endocrine system. Your endocrine system is composed of glands that secrete hormones into your bloodstream. These glands in turn regulate things such as your mood, your metabolism, your sexual function, growth and development. They are found in so many skin care products that are sold to us everyday.

What are the most common EDC’s in personal care products?

• Phthalates can commonly be listed as fragrance or parfum
• Bisphenol A in the packaging,
• Parabens (E.g. Isobutylparaben) anything ending in paraben,
• Chemicals used in the production of ingredients, think from the ground up. What have they been sprayed with during their growth prior to harvest.

What I also find awful is that the dangers of EDC’s have been known for such a long time. Yet here we are again, this time looking at it from a young man’s point of view. In conclusion the study noted –
“Frequent exposure to face lotion during pregnancy and while breastfeeding may be associated with increased TGCT risk. Further investigation into the endocrine disrupting effects of personal care products is warranted”.
How many times have we read or heard this? I know I’ve certainly lost count.

So, what can we do about it?

Avoid EDC’s is the simplest of answers. Actually, avoid chemicals in your personal care products altogether. But is it possible to eliminate them altogether? Well in a purist’s world, yes, it is. But is it practical?
By knowing what they are and where they are means you can avoid them. But gosh, they are everywhere.
So just do your best.

To help you along your path in using safe skin care I’ve compiled a list of further reading for you –

WHO Report: State of the science of endocrine disrupting chemicals – An 2012 assessment of the state of the science of endocrine disruptors prepared by a group of experts for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and WHO.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) The Dirty Dozen that you can find here – https://www.ewg.org/research/dirty-dozen-list-endocrine-disruptors#.WrwnRy5ubIU

Dr Peter Dingle is a well-known expert in his field of health and wellbeing. A man that I have sat and listened to many times over the years. A researcher with over 30years experience under his belt & former Associate Professor at Murdoch University here in Western Australia.
He & Toni Brown’s booklet Cosmetics and Personal Care Dangerous Beauty was first published on June 21 1999 and I would hand out to customers. He has now updated this and published Dangerous Beauty last year. I highly recommend that you read this book. I am not an affiliate in any way, I just want you to become educated and do so by reading reputable material.

No matter what we seem to do these days there is more and more evidence that the use of synthetic ingredients and chemicals in our personal care products is detrimental, actually, darn right dangerous to our health.

We need to leave any guilt at the door about what we have used up until now. We were all doing the best we could for our families with what we knew at the time. Us Mum’s learn so much in such a short space of time when our child is born. Guilt is the last thing we need to feel.

What I am trying to do by informing you of these findings is to help you understand the importance of knowing what you are putting on your skin and how you can avoid toxic substances.

Every product we create here at Verissima is made to be non-toxic giving you confidence, knowing you don’t have to guess if the products you’re using are safe for your skin or that of your family’s. Our products are available for purchase online on our website www.verissima.com.au

One little change at a time is all that is needed.
Contact me, send me an email if you have any questions. I am here to help you.