As you all may know, I am a modern day hippie; I enjoy mostly natural items in my daily life. This includes body care items, especially because they are absorbed into our pores and eventually blood stream. Anywhoo – I have had the honor of previewing Jolie Bloom’s Soothing Body Butter Bar; which is a luxe combination of essential oils and oatmeal compacted in an awesome bar shape.
Let’s talk about it, shall we?
Jolie Bloom Oatmeal Body Bar
Now, the instructions were to apply while my skin is damp. Clearly, I don’t follow directions very well, because I took it into the shower and rubbed it on after rinsing off. I felt silly, but after I rubbed the “lotion” in, my skin was über soft!
Jolie Bloom Body Butter Bar
I went to Atlanta on a business trip, and was pleasantly able to pack my bar without having to worry about TSA guidelines. The maximum amount of lotion allowed is 3oz, definitely not enough to last an entire weekend! The cute cardboard box also makes great transport.
Did I mention that the ingredients are super easy to understand? No parabens, phthalates, chemicals – just all natural goodness:
I highly recommend the body bars for anyone who likes to be moisturized; they last all day and leaves no residue. My pores look and feel awesome, even on my elbows and knees. It’s definitely a sexy feeling
to get undressed after a long day and have your skin look and feel touchably smooth. I rubbed it on my face and discovered that it acts as a super luxe lip balm. I kept rubbing my lips together all morning, lol.
The story behind Jolie Bloom can be found in the video above – it’s an awesome concept and definitely an inspiring way to get through your day. If you don’t feel good on the inside, it shows on the outside – and vice versa. I’ll be ordering tomorrow on the official launch day!
There’s more than just moisturizers and bath bars – Jolie Bloom also offers deliciously scented candles, too. Just take my wallet now.
Growing up, us girls heard a lot of urban legends about how to gauge a “man’s” size. As teenagers we were told big hands and feet equaled big peen. In my adult life, I heard that you could “guestimate” the length and girth using the thumbs. Now, scientific evidence shows that we weren’t that far off. The answer lies in the fingers…
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Photo Credit
Via Men’s Health:
We dare you to not look at your hand after reading this: Guys with shorter index fingers than ring fingers tend to have bigger penises than guys with the opposite digit scenario, finds a new study in the Asian Journal of Andrology.
How did researchers get this information? Very carefully. While men who came in to a Korean hospital for urological surgery were anesthetized, scientists measured consenting patients’ penises. (“Thanks for coming in for penis surgery! Mind if we measure it while you’re knocked out?”)
Fun fact: Since shorter members stretch more than longer ones, the stretched measurement—used by the researchers—is more telling about the size of an erect penis. Other researchers measured the patients’ index and ring fingers.
“Let me see your hands…”
The connection: The testosterone men get exposed to while they’re still fetuses controls both penis and finger length, the researchers explain.
The early testosterone exposure reflected in your fingers (and elsewhere) affects you in many other ways, explains Denise Brooks McQuade, a scientist at Skidmore College not affiliated with the study. Guys with shorter index finger than ring fingers—known as a low digit ratio—tend to have a higher risk of prostate cancer, be better at sports and financial trading, and have higher sperm counts.
We know by now you’ve 1) Looked at your hand and 2) Adjusted your hand’s position so that your index finger looks shorter. Want to figure out your digit ratio for real? Watch this video from Men’s Health to learn how to accurately measure it. (You can quit feeling self-conscious now: The average size of an erect penis is a not-at-all-intimidating-to-think-about 5.5 inches.)
Now that you know what your hands say about your penis, are you on your way to measure?
As the temperatures drops each year and we start putting on extra layers, it’s a great time to check-in with your most precious parts and make sure they too are getting ready for a healthy, happy winter.
Here are a few tips to keep your girlie parts in tiptop shape this season:
As you start layering-on the leggings, jeans and long underwear, please remember that girlie parts need to breathe. The pelvic area needs air circulation to keep both sweat and bacterial growth in check. A great opportunity to get some airtime is while you sleep. Leave those panties on the floor and let her breathe at night.
A great opportunity to get some airtime is while you sleep. Leave those panties on the floor and let her breathe at night.
In addition airing her out, wear natural fabric as much as possible. Nylon and polyester underwear and pantyhose react differently to sweat and bacteria, often trapping moisture and odor. Here are some healthier alternatives:
If you’re wearing fewer dresses and skirts in favor of tight-fitting jeans and leggings, rethink the thong. These “no panty line” favorites are also really good at transferring bacteria from back to front. Enough said.
Even though the temps are cold and a hot bath sounds delish, keep those baths free of harsh soaps and bubble bath additives. Bar soaps, body washes and bubble bath liquids can remove the delicate vaginal flora. This protective mucosal membrane acts as a barrier, keeping bad bacteria at bay.
As colds and flu proliferate in winter, be mindful of antibiotic use, which kill normal protective flora. If that cold turns into a visit to the pharmacy, when you’re finished with your antibiotics, follow-up with eating extra helpings of unsweetened yogurt to help repopulate the good guys in your system.
Ok you’re good to go! Now toss-on a few layers, grab your skis, snowboards, snowshoes and sleds and have fun this winter with your healthy hoohoo!
So, in celebration of my birthday and the first days of summer – I’ve linked up with some of my favorite bloggers to bring you an awesome giveaway! The winner gets a $150 Amazon Gift Card to spend on whatever he/she wants. Summer’s here, and who wouldn’t love extra cash to enjoy it with?
The hot weather is finally here – it’s time to get sexy! If that wasn’t enough reason Why You Should Get Over Your Ex, I proudly compiled a quick list for you. Once you’re equipped with the reasons why, you’ll need to know how – right? Take a second to get into Six Ways to Get Over Your Ex – it may just save your summer…
Via whtstatic.com
6. Write an Open Letter
Got a blog? Write an open letter to your ex. Post it. You don’t have to share it on your social media sites or promote it at all, but the possibility that your ex will read the post is pretty high. Trust me. Don’t have a blog? Write the letter by hand. If you’re feeling brave, mail it to him/her. Not so much? Put it in a glass bottle and send it up a river or into the beach. Write it on a balloon. Put your thoughts in the air; let that person know how you feel. It makes for awesome closure, and may possibly be all that you needed to start moving on. I’ve done it before, and it was one of the best things I ever did for myself. Whether he understood or not was not my problem, I got an opportunity to vent directly to the source of my unhappiness. Try it – I guarantee it, or your money back.
Yeah, I know – it’s free.
via Huffpost.com
5. Hang With Other Single People
They say misery loves company, but I think positive vibes from other single people really lifts the spirits after a breakup. You get to realize that there’s life after your ex. Do you think that the first person a married man or woman met ended up as their spouse?
via glamour.com
6. Then, Hang Out With Couples
No, not the ones that have been together for a month. Look at your friends who have been in relationships for years. Happily. Don’t be afraid to spend time with them and find out what strategies have been working to keep their love successful. Learning about compromise prepares us for the next relationship – there’s nothing wrong with taking notes.
via siouxempirefcu.org
4. Do Stuff Alone
Sounds weird, but it’s actually quite relaxing. How will your next love know what you like, what you enjoy, what your favorite things are – if you don’t even know? Finding yourself is crucial to having a successful long term relationship. When you’re with someone, sometimes you grow into their habits and interests because it seems like the thing t o do. Part of the reason we feel so devastated when we break up with someone, is because we don’t know what to do without them. Pinpointing your personal interests eliminates this problem. Try going to the local library, a museum exhibit, dinner, shopping (responsibly). Prepping for your throne means you have to appreciate time alone.
via Frugalbeautiful.com
3. Then, Do Stuff With Your Friends
Tell your friends how you’re feeling – chances are they’ll be ready to take you out and cheer you up. Even if it’s just a girls’ night in with popcorn and movies – laughter is definitely good for the soul. If you’ve got a few dollars for drinks and snacks – think about hostessing a Passion Party. What’s better than a night of fun with your friends, and a new BOB (Battery Operated Boyfriend) to keep you occupied during your single phase? Passion Parties are free, and you’ll learn things you never thought you needed to know about sex and romance.
via sweatandstillettos.com
2. Take Lessons
Distraction is a great remedy for breakup blues, why not spend some time learning something new? Take local cooking classes, art lessons, maybe even Pole Dancing. When it’s time for you to find that new person, you’ll be even more interesting thanks to your newfound hobby.
via ddmcdn.com
1. Date!
Dating doesn’t always equal commitment. Nor does it always equal sex. Consider speed dating, where you are able to meet multiple personalities of single individuals in one night – with no strings attached. Speed dating events are usually in a mellow setting, with light drinks and music. Take a friend with you, loosen up and have a good time! You never know who you may find.
I don’t have all the answers, but I know what worked for me after my breakups. Now, as a married woman, I realize in retrospect what was and what should have been important factors in my dating life. Hopefully these six ways help you truly get over your ex.
I made the mistakes so you don’t have to.
If you have any other questions, feel free to hit me up: vforvadge@gmail.com, Instagram: @Kimi_LeVadge, Twitter: @KimiLeVadge
Let’s face it, breakups are tough. They don’t always end as we plan and sometimes we never wanted the ending at all. If you’ve been in a relationship before, you know how difficult it can be to move forward. Today, I bring you 6 Reasons Why You Should Get Over Your Ex
(These tips apply to all genders and orientations, by the way).
6. It’s a Bad Look…
Whether you’re ready to date again or not, moping around because of your ex looks terrible on you. Not only is it bad for your mood, but it messes with your overall appearance. According to Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary, “The face lacks expression when a person becomes sad. She smiles less and the twinkle in her eye disappears. In the severely depressed, the voice becomes monotone, void of intonation and expression. She adopts a stooped posture and a slow gait with no buoyancy or enthusiasm. She may neglect her personal hygiene and appear disheveled. A blank gaze takes the place of eye contact with another.” Maybe you won’t go as far as not bathing, but try ditching the long face. When Mr. Right bumps into you at the supermarket – you want to be ready. Greet him with a smile!
5. Your Friends are Tired of Hearing about Him.
Yes, we are your shoulders to cry on, but with time your head gets heavy! Let’s change the topic a bit and check out that cutie at the movies instead.
4. You’re Losing/Gaining Weight.
One of the most common effects of sadness is increase/decrease in appetite which results in weight gain or loss. While a little fluctuation is normal, too much in either direction can be unhealthy. Psychiatrist Sheri Van Dijk states that it’s not uncommon to feel less energetic when you’re sad. “It’s also common to feel tired or run-down, experience a decrease in your energy level, feel lethargic, or want to stay in bed all day.” The desire to do less and stay home can definitely have a bad effect on your body and overall health.
via letstalkrelations.com
3. You’re F*@ing Up!
The distraction of a break up can seriously impair your mental clarity and ability to focus. If you wonder why your work days feel more difficult – it may be stemming from your thoughts.
2. He’s Over It
Chances are, while you’re home sulking in sweatpants on a Friday night, he’s out having fun with his friends (don’t go troll his Instagram to check). Even if he’s mentally stressing, most guys don’t show it on the outside. If your ex can get up and get out – you can too.
1. You’re Too Dope (Awesome) to be Crying!
Recognize that you are one of a kind, and whatever caused the breakup is not likely to happen again (unless you allow it). The special traits that your ex found intriguing will be even more captivating to the next person. There are approximately 7,241,037,067 people on this earth, you WILL find someone new. It’s not a question of if, it’s more like when. Now is your chance to get yourself together and prepare to be an awesome girlfriend.
Note: I opted to leave images out of this post. Why, you ask? The images of adorable little girls sitting in their own blood made me cry. I can’t imagine my infant daughter experiencing such pain. Hopefully I have described FGC enough with my words. Awareness is crucial…
The practice of genital cutting has been an age-old ritual that allegedly serves multiple purposes. The act itself is done by cutting, slicing or removing the clitoris and/or labia in an attempt to prepare the young girl for marriage. A woman is often seen as not being “pure” if she is uncut when seeking or being arranged with a partner. It is found primarily in African and Asian countries (but is also practiced in other nations), and often performed by relatives of the victim. Nicknamed “Vacation Cutting,” victims often find themselves swept away unexpectedly during visits to their home country for the procedure to be done. I felt compelled to discuss this ritual as a way to shed light on the “back home” traditions that haunt first generation Americans to this day.
Naima Abdullahi – via NYtimes.com
Research shows that these girls are usually faced with seriously unsanitary conditions; razor blades dipped in alcohol, broken glass; crude cutting devices ensure that the deed is done no matter what. The unsuspecting individual like you and I would think that such things don’t happen in 2014 – but we are sadly mistaken. The United States banned genital cutting in 1996, and transport for that purpose became illegal in 2013. It is considered a sacred rite of passage, supposedly to purify and ensure chastity until the woman is married of. Conversely, sexual satisfaction is often replaced with pain, discomfort and body issues. Considering the thousands of nerve endings in the clitoris alone, it is no surprise that many women are left mentally, physically and emotionally scarred after cutting.
So, let’s talk details. Generally speaking, you may know someone who has been a victim of genital cutting. About 228,000 women have suffered or are at risk for FGM (Female Genital Mutilation).
– Who is Affected?
o Girls between the ages of 4 and 14 to “ensure” virginity until marriage.
– Is It Harmful?
o Yes. There are no health benefits to genital cutting. In fact, the act alone puts the victims at risk for a multitude of health problems. Short term, she may experience pain, shock, bleeding, bacterial infections and tissue injury. On the long term, she is at risk for bladder infections, Urinary Tract Infections, cysts, infertility, complications during intercourse and childbirth.
Some things you should know:
FGM is a crime. It is illegal in 21 US states, but to date, sentencing in many of those states is weak to say the least. In my home state of New York, an individual convicted of performing genital cutting may face a maximum of four years in prison. Conversely, in my current state of Florida – an offender can get up to 30 years in prison as well as a hefty fine. I can only hope that the other states follow suit and step up their laws against Female Genital Cutting. More than 8,000 girls undergo FGC/FGM every day in Africa and Asia – that’s an estimated 3 million girls per year! America should be where these girls feel safe.
via – theahafoundation.org
Imagine that. Putting your daughter at risk for death or permanent injury for the sake of being “pure.” It’s a difficult issue to process, as many of these parents are performing the act out of sheer ignorance and tradition. How can I prepare for marriage when I’m unsure if my husband will find my vagina attractive? Not all women born into a specific culture marry into it – these parents are robbing their daughters of confidence and their right to choose. My goal is to break the mold through advocacy, education and open discussion. I hope everyone will share this article and get their family and friends to rally against genital cutting.
If you know someone at risk for genital cutting, please encourage them to get help from a physician. If you need help finding the local laws in your area, feel free to contact me using the information below. You can always email me at vforvadge@gmail.com.
A key element in maintaining a healthy lifestyle is making sure that every aspect of one’s body is in good physical shape. For a man, one of his most vital organs are the penis and testicles.Monthly checks of the “balls” may help in early detection of testicular cancer; giving a man the upper hand in removal, treatment and possible avoidance of cancer.
Before starting the self-exam course, it is crucial that a man know his own anatomy. Take a moment to peek at the chart below:
Photo courtesy of Summit Medical Group
Statistics:
The American Cancer Society’s estimates for testicular cancer in the United States for 2014 are:
About 8,820 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed.
About 380 men will die of testicular cancer.
The American Cancer Society’s most recent estimates for the United States were for 2012:
About 8,590 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed.
About 360 men will die of testicular cancer.
The rate of testicular cancer has been increasing in the United States and many other countries. The increase is mostly in seminomas. Experts have not been able to find reasons for this increase. Lately, the rate of increase has slowed.
Testicular cancer is not common; a man’s lifetime chance of developing testicular cancer is about 1 in 270. Because treatment is so successful, the risk of dying from this cancer is very low: about 1 in 5,000.
Most doctors agree that checking a man’s testicles should be part of a general physical exam. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends a testicular exam by a doctor as part of a routine cancer-related check-up.
The ACS advises men to be aware of testicular cancer and to see a doctor right away if a lump is found. Regular testicular self-exams have not been studied enough to show if they reduce the death rate from this cancer. This is why the ACS does not make recommendations about regular testicular self-exams for all men. Still, some doctors recommend that all men do monthly testicular self-exams after puberty.
Men with risk factors, such as an undescended testicle, previous testicular cancer, or a family member who has had this cancer should seriously think about monthly self-exams. If you have risks, talk it over with a doctor. Each man has to decide for himself whether to examine his testicles each month. Here are instructions on how to do it if you decide it’s right for you.
If you choose to check your testicles, you will learn what is normal for you and be able to tell when something is different. Always report any changes to a doctor right away.
((Originally published Oct. 2012. Updated June 15, 2014))
As time and technology advances, many of us in the sex health world have watched nature and science team up victoriously. The following studies show how changing something as simple as your diet can improve the overall quality of your sex drive, primarily semen quality in men. Take a peek and learn how health and sex coincide… – Kimi
A funny thing happened while researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were testing the effects of yogurt on obese mice: unexpected side effects sprouted up. First, yogurt-fed mice developed thick, shiny fur, with 10 times the hair-follicle density of their yogurt-deprived counterparts. Then researchers noticed that wasn’t all that seemed . . . fuller. The yogurt-eating males held their whiskers high and proudly displayed their testes, which were about 15% heavier than males consuming low-nutrient “junk” food. The yogurt-eating males also inseminated their partners faster, and yogurt-eating females gave birth to larger and more successful litters.
We’ve been touting the benefits of no-sugar-added, low-fat Greek yogurt for a long time. It contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that help keep your digestive and immune systems humming, your arteries flexible, and your triglyceride levels and blood pressure low — essentials for healthy sexual functioning.
Can it pump up humans, too? Seems so. For quite a while, researchers from the Harvard School of Public Healthhave been looking at the association between yogurt intake and semen quality. Their findings are consistent with what the MIT group saw in the mice.
Guys, if you’re thinking of adding yogurt to your daily “good times” menu (tomatoes protect against prostate cancer, and blueberries and broccoli keep blood pumping where it should), here’s our recommendation: at least half a cup of low-fat/nonfat, no-sugar-added yogurt with fresh fruit and unsweetened whole grain cereal, daily.
Photo Credit
4 other benefits of yogurt:
Yogurt makes your blood vessels happy. A diet rich in low-fat dairy can curb your risk of high blood pressureby up to 31%.
Yogurt with probiotics kills bad bugs. Probiotics are good-guy bacteria that search out and destroy the nasty microbes that cause periodontal disease and intestinal trouble. Look for “contains probiotics” or “live active cultures” on yogurt labels.
Yogurt helps you remember. Researchers have linked eating low-fat yogurt with better memory recall than full-fat dairy foods.
Yogurt satisfies hunger better than a candy bar. Leave it to the French: They reported that an afternoon yogurt snack makes 20-year-olds feel fuller than a chocolate bar does. Stir a few dark-chocolate bits and some juicy fruit into a thick, creamy, low-fat Greek yogurt and you won’t need any convincing.
SOURCES:
http://www.bodynomics.com/eat-yogurt-to-rev-up-your-sex-life/
By: Mehmet C. Oz, MD, and Michael F. Roizen, MD
From the Writer’s Desk: Initially, I was targeting the teens with this post – but I realize that many adults need to read this too. I have heard so many different theories on condom use – it’s time to clarify a few things for everyone.
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1. “I use them for the first round, but not the rest…” Condoms are necessary throughout the entire sexual encounter. Especially if you and the other person are not in a committed relationship, this is crucial. Many diseases such as chlamydia and HPV (Genital Warts) are not always visible to the naked eye. Unless you are examining this person with a microscope, you are putting yourself at risk for disease.
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2.“It doesn’t feel as good” In this day and age, there are so many condoms to choose from – there’s never a reason to not have one on hand. In fact, it’s quite fun to explore the various options available. Ribbed, Extra Sensitive, Vibrating Ring, Her Pleasure, Pleasure Dots; why not pick up a box and try a new kind out every month? Every week? Fine, every day if you must!
Kimi’s Tip: If you’re worried about the condom losing it’s moisture – have a bottle of lube handy. I recommend Astroglide or H2O. Keeping lubrication nearby will keep the mood going and allow extended use of the condom. Never re-use a condom once sperm is inside of it.
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3. “He will think I’m cheating if I ask to use one” If this is even a topic of discussion between you and your mate, you may be in the wrong relationship. Not only do condoms protect from disease, but they shield a woman from pregnancy – which never has to happen by accident. Better safe than sorry, right? Kimi’s Tip: Check out condoms with avibrating ring attached, it will spice up the night and he’ll be so busy enjoying it he won’t complain.
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4. “I’m clean, so I don’t need them” You got tested and the doctor said you’re fine, right? Did your partner get tested with you? Why not? Unless both partners have been tested, there is no guarantee that either of you don’t have an STD/STI. Most OB/GYNs will allow partners to get tested together, as well as discuss options for protection. Men are less able to hide disease and infection, because the penis is an external organ. Women may carry diseases and go for years without knowing, because the vagina is not just one unit. Getting tested annually (or every six months) is the only way to guarantee that you are free of disease. If you are treated for a disease and your partner is not – there is a great chance that you will be re-infected without contraception. Condoms are your best bet to avoid this, as well as taking your partner to the doctor with you. Find a Health Center Near You
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5. It ruins the mood There’s more than one way to do everything, putting on a condom is no different. Try putting it on for him, without the use of your hands. Get creative, and it will enhance the mood! Kimi’s Tip: Try a female condom – you can insert it hours before sex, and he won’t be required to wear one. 6. “I’m Allergic to Latex” Quite a few natural, latex-free options are now available for your enjoyment. You can get all the sex, and none of the itchy allergic reaction. Kimi’s Tip: Try Sir Richard’s Condoms – proceeds from condom purchases go to providing contraceptives in underdeveloped and needy countries. Their product is all natural and sold at health food stores nationwide and in the UK. See reviews from regular people for Sir Richard’s Here. Sources: H2O Lubrication: http://www.cheaplubes.com/system-jo-h2o-25oz.aspx Astroglide: http://www.astroglide.com/home.aspx Vibrating Ring: http://www.trojanvibrations.com/vibrators/intimate-vibrating-ring Female Condom: http://www.undercovercondoms.com/Condoms/Reality/3976/Female-Condom.html?kw=Female+Condoms+Exact+AGroup&gclid=CJrl9oOJw7ICFQQGnQodpGIAoA&utm_source=7&utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=Female%20Condoms%20Exact%20AGroup&utm_campaign=7
