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		<title>Thank God I&#039;m Natural</title>
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		<title>Check Out Our Natural Hair Blog &#8212; Over 400 Natural Hair Articles</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/check-out-our-natural-hair-blog-over-400-natural-hair-articles/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/check-out-our-natural-hair-blog-over-400-natural-hair-articles/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:53:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>cdonalds22</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[If you&#8217;re looking for a natural hair blog to call home,  you&#8217;re in the right place.  We make caring for your natural hair easy with simple straightforward to read advice.  With over 400 hair articles in our collection, we&#8217;re the go to source for all things natural hair.  For those of you looking to take [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12949&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/african-american-woman-computer.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12950" title="african-american-woman-computer" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/african-american-woman-computer.jpg?w=470&#038;h=346" alt="" width="470" height="346" /></a></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">If you&#8217;re looking for a natural hair blog to call home,  you&#8217;re in the right place.  We make caring for your natural hair easy with simple straightforward to read advice.  With over 400 hair articles in our collection, we&#8217;re the go to source for all things natural hair.  For those of you looking to take your learning to a whole new level, you will also want to pick up your very own autographed copy of Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Natural Hair, the book that Essence Magazine calls “Your Natural Hair Bible”, in the <a href="http://www.tginstore.com/">TGINStore.</a></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">We also offer tips on health, wellness, exercising, diet and natural living that you&#8217;re going to love. Remember what you eat and how you take care of yourself also impacts how long, strong and healthy your hair grows. </span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">You can also like us on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thankgodimnatural"><span style="color:#000000;">Facebook</span></a> or follow us on Twitter (<a href="http://twitter.com/tginatural"><span style="color:#000000;">@tginatural</span></a>)</span></p>
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		<title>10 Tools Every Naturalista Needs</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/10-tools-every-naturalista-needs/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/10-tools-every-naturalista-needs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hair]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12858</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Going natural involves a great deal of experimentation with products as well as hairstyles. Finding a set of tools doesn’t involve as much trial and error. If you want to maintain your natural hair, you need the right tools. Ladies, we have complied a list of our top ten tools every Team Natural member needs. [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12858&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12881" title="Natural-Hair-Tools" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/natural-hair-tools-cococreme1.jpg?w=470&#038;h=293" alt="" width="470" height="293" /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Going natural involves a great deal of experimentation with products as well as hairstyles. Finding a set of tools doesn’t involve as much trial and error. If you want to maintain your natural hair, you need the right tools. Ladies, we have complied a list of our top ten tools every Team Natural member needs.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">1. Comb Set</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">You can find a comb set with wide tooth comb, rat tail comb, and fine tooth comb at your local beauty mart. Combs are a great source for detangling and shaping your hair.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">2. Spray Bottle</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">You can fill it up with water or mix up a natural hair concoction to moisturize your hair.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">3. Satin Cap</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">You can’t go a night without having a satin cap on your head.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">4. Satin Pillow</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">If you are wild sleeper like me or sometimes your satin cap falls off your head, the satin pillow is always great to have.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">5. Bobby Pins</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Use to create various hairstyles as well as tucking up fly a-ways.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">6. Elastic bands</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Ouch- less bands without metal pieces are essential for buns and ponytails.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">7. Hair Clips</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Use to section your hair and to hold your hair in place.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">8. Rollers</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Whether its foam rollers, flex rods, or color foam formers, you will be able to achieve a natural curly style.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">9. Flat Iron</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">If you want to try using heat, the flat iron is the best bet to get straighten hair.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">10. Your Hands</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">The best tool of all is your hands. Okay, your fingers, too. Massaging your scalp and putting oil in your tresses involve those pretty hands of yours.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Source<strong>:</strong> <a title="Paulette Wilson of COCO AND CRÈME!" href="http://www.cocoandcreme.com/2012/01/10-hair-tools-every-naturalista-needs/" target="_blank">Paulette Wilson of COCO AND CRÈME!</a></span></p>
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			<media:title type="html">lathakaranth</media:title>
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		<title>Weight Loss Tip of the Week &#8211; Keep Snacks in the House</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/weight-loss-tip-of-the-week-keep-snacks-in-the-house/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/weight-loss-tip-of-the-week-keep-snacks-in-the-house/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weight Loss]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12771</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When we make the decision to lose weight, we often go to the extremes A common mistake most dieters make is taking all snacks out the house. Most nutiritionist will tell youthat snacking throughout the day is actually necessary for successful dieting. It’s completely normal to gets hunger pangs &#8211; just make sure that when [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12771&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12775" title="Snacks" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/dpp_0153.jpg?w=470&#038;h=313" alt="" width="470" height="313" /></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">When we make the decision to lose weight, we often go to the extremes A common mistake most dieters make is taking all snacks out the house. Most nutiritionist will tell youthat snacking throughout the day is actually necessary for successful dieting. It’s completely normal to gets hunger pangs &#8211; just make sure that when you satisfy your cravings with healthy, low-fat snacks. <strong><em>Ladies, let&#8217;s be clear, when we say healthy snacks, we don&#8217;t mean Doritos, Oreos, or Hostess cupcakes.</em></strong>  Great ideas for healthy snacks are low-fat yogurt, sweet potatoes, edamame, salted popcorn, trailmix and string cheese. Also, try carry snacks with you in your purse. Granola and protein bars are great and will prevent you from stopping in at McDonalds on the way home.  </span></p>
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			<media:title type="html">lathakaranth</media:title>
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			<media:title type="html">Snacks</media:title>
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		<title>10 Trendy Foods You Should Not Ignore</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/10-trendy-foods-you-should-not-ignore/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12071</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you’re like us, you may end up dismissing a health food once it’s become trendy or overly marketed. Who wants to drink kombucha when hipsters are carrying around their homemade brews on every corner? And should acai be in our breakfast bowls if it’s in our spam filters? It’s easy to forget that many [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12071&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">If you’re like us, you may end up dismissing a health food once it’s become trendy or overly marketed.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Who wants to drink kombucha when hipsters are carrying around their homemade brews on every corner? And should acai be in our breakfast bowls if it’s in our spam filters?</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">It’s easy to forget that many of these faddish foods became must-have munchables because of their actual health benefits.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">We tapped the nutrition known-how of Keri Glassman, celeb nutritionist and <a title="founder of Nutritious Life" href="http://www.nutritiouslife.com/" target="_blank">founder of Nutritious Life</a>, to find out when it’s right to follow the crowd with our shopping carts.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Here are 10 (super) trendy health foods she recommends…</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Chia Seeds</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> In bags and snacks at the natural food store, Organic Avenue pudding, a delicious muffin at Le Pain Quotidien, even Dr. Perricone’s Super skin-care line.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Chia seeds fueled the ancient Aztecs and “are a great source of fiber and are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids,” says Glassman. Because they absorb fluid well, they can naturally thicken smoothies, and they help you feel full longer.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 1 tablespoon a day sprinkled into smoothies, salads or soups.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12081" title="Chia Seeds" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319674300_chiaseeds.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Maca Root</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> Cinnamon Snail’s vegan food-truck shake, health guru David Wolfe’s kitchen, and in <a title="supplements" href="http://www.navitasnaturals.com/products/maca.html" target="_blank">supplements</a> and Gnosis chocolate.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Maca may help spice up your sex life, but more research is needed on that front, says Glassman, who confirms its other benefits. It’s loaded with “amino acids important for skin and bone health, and sterols, which help control cholesterol levels.” Bonus: Like ginseng, maca raises the body’s ability to ward off disease via natural hormone regulation.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 1 tablespoon of the root in ground powder form. Sprinkle over food or add it to tea or smoothies (possibly for the Barry White effect.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12082" title="Maca Root" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319674468_macaroot.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Acai Berries</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> Breakfast bowls at Juice Generation, <a title="Sambazon" href="http://www.sambazon.com/" target="_blank">Sambazon</a> beverages, plus the frozen-food, skin-care, and supplements aisle, and your spam filter.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Antioxidants are trendy on their own, but the molecules really do protect against daily damage from free radicals, and acai packs a powerful dose. Contrary to some claims, the berries won’t result in miraculous weight loss, warns Glassman. And, she says, “Remember, blueberries are probably just as great.”</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> Add the fruit to smoothies or cereal, or stir acai powder or concentrate into a glass of water after a workout. Use on your skin help fight <a title="sun and free-radical damage" href="http://www.pangeaorganics.com/product/mask-featured-home_page-japanese_matcha_tea-acai-goji_berry-all_skin_types-skincare-oily-acne-blemish-acne_prone-blemish_prone-dry-mature-combination-normal-sensitive-rosacea-anti_aging-antioxidant-anti_inflammatory-vegan-gluten_free-t_zone/japanese-matcha-tea-with-acai-and-goji-berry_1" target="_blank">sun and free-radical damage</a>.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12083" title="Acai Berries" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319674668_acai.gif?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Kale</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> You can’t escape it! Salads at every healthy restaurant (and City Bakery), at Whole Foods in the form of overpriced chips, and every green juice.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Glassman calls kale the “green giant” because of its abundant vitamins and minerals. It’s packed with calcium and vitamin K for healthy bones and has a whopping 5 grams of fiber per cup, which is great for digestion. “It also has 45 different flavonoids, potent antioxidants that research has linked to lowering the risk of cancer,” says Glassman.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> Get a cup of kale daily. Steam for 5 minutes, drink it up in a juice, or massage in a delish raw salad.</span></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12084" title="Kale" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319674855_picture7.png?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Hemp Seeds</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> The cabinets of celebs like Alicia Silverstone and Dr. Andrew Weil, and lots of dishes at Candle 79.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Hemp seeds contain omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and are loaded with potassium, iron, and calcium. “They’re one of the only plant-based complete proteins containing all eight essential amino acids that your body can’t make and must obtain through food,” says Glassman. They may also lower bad LDL cholesterol—and help you get or stay regular.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 1 tablespoon per day as a snack, or add to salads and soups.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12085" title="Hemp Seeds" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675121_picture8.png?w=470" alt=""   /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Kombucha</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> Park Slope Food Co-op shopping carts, yogi tote bags, skin-care products, and in the fridge of many a DIY fermenter.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Kombucha got a bad rap when Whole Foods pulled it from the shelves due to higher-than-advertised levels of alcohol. But since it’s made from the fermentation of sugar in tea by bacterial yeasts, its probiotic properties may improve digestive health. “By adding good bacteria to the natural flora of the gut, probiotics keep your GI tract happy and healthy,” says Glassman.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 1 cup to drink (maybe not while operating heavy machinery).</span><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12086" title="Kombucha" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675247_brew_dr_kombucha_sm.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Goji Berries</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> Dried in bags like Craisins and often in supplement form, chocolates, and snacks.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Like acai, goji berries are antioxidant rich. Vitamins A, C, and E boost your immune system and fight inflammation. Chinese medicine says these berries will help you live to be over 100, says Glassman. “But they may in fact be similar to blackberries and raspberries in terms of nutrition.” More research is needed to support claims like improved cognition, sleep quality, and athletic performance.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 2 tablespoons daily, dried or in smoothies.</span><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12087" title="Goji Berries" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675568_goji2.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Coconut</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> The water is in every deli fridge for post-workout hydration and the meat is a vegan favorite for milk and ice cream. The oil and sugar is used in cooking and baking.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> “Coconut meat is packed with fiber, protein, vitamins B1, B6, C and E, folic acid, calcium, and iron,” says Glassman. And although coconut oil (extracted from the meat) is high in saturated fat, it’s a form that is more readily used for energy and less likely to be stored as fat.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> 2 teaspoons in place of vegetable oils, or spread coconut butter on toast. Beware too much coconut water, which has a lot of natural sugar.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12088" title="Coconut" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675695_coconuts.jpg?w=470&#038;h=587" alt="" width="470" height="587" /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Quinoa</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> The bulk bin, plus salads, wraps, bowls at Jivamuktea Cafe, and maybe even your morning cereal.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Quinoa is a great source of vitamins and minerals and has more protein than almost all other grains. Its high magnesium content may help those prone to migraines. “It’s also an excellent source of B vitamins, important for energy and cell repair,” says Glassman.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> Eat quinoa as porridge for breakfast with fruit. Combine with veggies and chickpeas for a lunch salad. Use in place of brown rice at dinner.</span></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12089" title="Quinoa" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675765_quinoa-salad2.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Quercetin</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Found in:</strong> Green tea, apples, red wine, citrus fruit, the supplements aisle, and in <a title="skin-care products" href="https://www.korresusa.com/list/skincare/collections/quercetin-and-oak" target="_blank">skin-care products</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Merits:</strong> Quercetin is not an actual food, but a phytochemical. (Even phytochemicals can be trendy!) It has been shown to decrease the incidence of colon and lung cancer through its powerful anti-inflammatory agents.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Recommended use:</strong> Eat whole fruits and vegetables to reap its benefits. Even for your skin.</span><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12080" title="Quercetin" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/1319675850_greentea_quercetin.jpg?w=470&#038;h=704" alt="" width="470" height="704" /></p>
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		<title>4 Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Scalp!</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/24/4-ways-to-keep-a-healthy-scalp/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/24/4-ways-to-keep-a-healthy-scalp/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:30:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>theawesome1</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hair]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Styles]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Seriously, a healthy scalp is all the rave. If your scalp isn&#8217;t healthy, chances are your hair isn&#8217;t either. Well, how do I get a healthy scalp? No worries, love. We got you. Just take out your pen and paper. Class is in session! No Need For Excess The first thing you should know is, your [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12857&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/naturalhair.jpg?w=248&#038;h=331" alt="" width="248" height="331" />Seriously, a healthy scalp is all the rave. If your scalp isn&#8217;t healthy, chances are your hair isn&#8217;t either.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><em>Well, how do I get a healthy scalp? </em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">No worries, love. We got you. Just take out your pen and paper. Class is in session!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;"><strong>No Need For Excess</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">The first thing you should know is, your scalp produces its own natural oil called sebum, which works perfectly for your specific hair. So anything else that you might place on your hair can be an added bonus, if the product you&#8217;re using is a good one. Now, in the African-American community, we are known for placing heavy oils and moisturizers in our hair to combat what we believe is a dry scalp. That&#8217;s a no-no. Your hair will do that for you. Once the heavy oils are added, your own natural oil will stop working, which will cause for more dry scalp. A light moisturizer, like Sweet Almond Oil on your scalp after you&#8217;ve washed your hair is all you really need, ladies. Trust me. I can now wear my black turtleneck and turn right without having to wipe off the flakes on my left!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Avoid Extreme Heat&#8230;(sorry Chi Flatiron)</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">This rule is as old as time. Whether you&#8217;re natural or not, excessive use of your favorite bedazzled flatiron, curling iron, or blow dryer only does damage.  When you do use your hair tools, be sure to keep away from the scalp and focus it on the hair shaft. The heat on the scalp itself can cause it to dry out, and who wants to hang out with the girl who has the dry scalp? I know I don&#8217;t.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Balance Your Diet</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Adopting a healthy diet does more than just help your scalp, it helps improve your overall wellness. However, in terms of your scalp, eating greasy, oily foods will have a negative impact on your hair. Just like eating potato chips, Oreos, drinking tons of soda and dinning at the McDonald&#8217;s Dollar Menu will have your face looking like the before picture in a ProActive commercial, the same can be said for your scalp. Cool? Cool.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;"><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Gentle! Gentle!</span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">When you &#8216;re washing your hair, read the fine lines. Using products with harsh sulfates such as ammonium and sodium lauryl sulfate strip the hair and the scalp of your natural oils. However, products from Carol&#8217;s Daughter or Karen&#8217;s Body Beautiful are made without sulfates that are kinder and more gentle to your hair. While washing it, you may not notice your hair begin to sud up quickly, don&#8217;t worry. The sulfates gave you that false sense of relief. These products are actually better and doing the work by not stripping you of your natural oil, all the while still cleaning your hair.</span></p>
<p><em><strong><span style="color:#000000;">So ladies, did this help?</span></strong></em></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><em>For more information about natural hair care, please pick up a copy of the book Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair now available at www.tginstore.com, Amazon.com, and Barnes &amp; Noble.  This 300+ page hair guide is the perfect resource for transitioners, the natural newbie, or long time curly girl and the book Essence Magazine calls &#8220;Your Natural Hair Bible&#8221;</em></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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			<media:title type="html">theawesome1</media:title>
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		<title>Pros and Cons of a Sew-In Weave as a Protective or Transition Style for Natural Hair</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/23/pros-and-cons-of-a-sew-in-weave-as-a-protective-or-transition-style-for-natural-hair/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/23/pros-and-cons-of-a-sew-in-weave-as-a-protective-or-transition-style-for-natural-hair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:33:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>cdonalds22</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hair]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Styles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12889</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Okay! Okay! Before you all go and bite my head off, let&#8217;s define what being natural is, shall we? According to us, the term natural means to free one&#8217;s hair of any chemical straightener that may cause damage in the form of Alopecia, split ends, dry scalp or anything  else that isn&#8217;t healthy for your hair. [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12889&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/sew-in-weave.jpg?w=344&#038;h=366" alt="" width="344" height="366" /></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Okay! Okay! Before you all go and bite my head off, let&#8217;s define what being <em>natural</em> is, shall we?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">According to us, the term natural means to free one&#8217;s hair of any chemical straightener that may cause damage in the form of Alopecia, split ends, dry scalp or anything  else that isn&#8217;t healthy for your hair.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Being natural doesn&#8217;t mean that you can&#8217;t color your hair, cut your hair or even wear a weave. You can still have fun with your hair and be natural.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">But like in life, wearing a weave has its positives and its negatives. So, we&#8217;re going to sit you down and make sure you&#8217;re well aware of what you&#8217;re getting into before you decide to put in a sew-in as a protective or transition style.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Positives</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Styling Versatility</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">If you want a short bob, go ahead. If you want cascading curls, go ahead. If you want to flirt with bangs, go ahead. If that relationship didn&#8217;t make it past dinner and a movie, cut &#8216;em off and go ahead! Sew in weaves allow you to not make any major commitments, and we all know how freeing no commitments can be!</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Hassel-free Transitioning</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Okay, so maybe hassel-free isn&#8217;t true. However, sew-in weaves do make transitioning a lot easier. The Big Chop takes Big cojones, and to be frank, not every woman is prepared for that. While a woman decided how they want to transition to natural hair-whether it be they do the Big Chop or not-a sew-in weave will help you put up a brave and stylish front to the outside world.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Less Manipulation</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">This is by far the biggest and best part of using a sew-in weave as a protective style. The less combing, brushing and overall touching of your hair (not counting when you have to wash, condition and maintain it of course) helps your hair along.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Cut and Color&#8230;Whenever!</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">When you color your hair, natural or not, you&#8217;re taking a chance at it potentially breaking. Coloring your hair, as wonderful as it is, can be a lot. But if you have a sew-in weave, you can pick whatever color you want and cut whenever you want to and not have it negatively impact your natural hair at all! That&#8217;s what we like to call a win-win. SCHWING!</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Good Things Come To Those Who Wait.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Ask any woman who has successfully transitioned, and she&#8217;ll tell you it took some months of frustration, headache, some good hair days and some ugh hair days. A sew-in weave helps you avoid all of that all together, while still looking cute and patiently waiting for your hair to blossom.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">The No Buenos</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Money! Money! Monnn eyyy&#8230;.MONNNNNEEEEYYY!</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">So, who told you weaves were inexpensive? Seriously, who told you that lie. Weaves cost money. Lots of it if you plan to try to maintain them. Weaves are cute for about a good three weeks, and then you start to get the bird&#8217;s nest vibe going on. Yeah, not cute. Unless you know how to do it yourself, you&#8217;ll need to calculate, for the year how much your weave will cost. If you don&#8217;t have the funds&#8230;well then maybe the Big Chop is the best route for you.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Constant Upkeep&#8230;CONSTANT!</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">We touched on it in the last subheading, but maintaining a sew-in isn&#8217;t all that easy either. Typically, your hair grows about ½ an inch a month, so too much tension on new growth increases your chances of traction alopecia.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span style="color:#000000;text-decoration:underline;">Temporary to Permanent Traction Alopecia.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Alopecia is caused by stress or excessive tension to the hair caused by braids, twists, ponytails, and weaves. This is a big negative when it comes to sew-in weaves.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">So there you have it, ladies. The good. The bad and the ugly. Although it seems as if there are a lot more positives than negatives, the negatives are big ones you should really weigh before making any major moves.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Hope we helped.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Ciao!</span></p>
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		<title>7 Skin Habits of Natural Beauties</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/22/7-skin-habits-of-natural-beauties/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/22/7-skin-habits-of-natural-beauties/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:00:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12629</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Women with great skin aren&#8217;t just lucky; they&#8217;re also diligent about caring for it. Watch the ingredients they put on their faces, and know that it all starts on the inside. We asked seven skin-care experts about their own age-defying routines &#8212; and offer their remarkably similar answers. 1. They Look for (Natural) Active Ingredients [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12629&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12636" title="African-american-skincare" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/african-american-skincare.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Women with great skin aren&#8217;t just lucky; they&#8217;re also diligent about caring for it. Watch the ingredients they put on their faces, and know that it all starts on the inside. We asked seven skin-care experts about their own age-defying routines &#8212; and offer their remarkably similar answers.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>1. They Look for (Natural) Active Ingredients</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">People used to think that natural products wouldn&#8217;t help with aging skin, but so much has changed, says Barbara Close, herbalist and founder of Naturopathica Skincare. Now potent extracts from plants make it possible to create natural products that really work.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">&#8220;Look for advanced ingredients like peptides, liposomes, and glycosides,&#8221; says Suki Kramer, founder of Suki Skincare. These ingredients can brighten skin, even tone, and prevent wrinkles, all of which are early signs of aging from oxidation and environmental influences.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>2. They Use Sunscreen &#8230; Usually</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">The No.1 antiaging weapon is sunblock, Close says. &#8220;The best natural sunscreens are zinc and titanium dioxide, which are nonirritating natural blocks that reflect the sun&#8217;s rays and help prevent damage.&#8221; But you also need about 10 minutes of unblocked sun every day to produce vitamin D, Kramer explains. &#8220;I try to get outside for 10 minutes, before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.,&#8221; says Josie Maran, model and founder of Josie Maran Cosmetics.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>3. They Love Antioxidants of All Types</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Everything you&#8217;ve heard about the health benefits of red wine also applies to your skin, Kramer says. Just as antioxidants prevent free-radical damage from the sun and pollution in the body, they do the same for the skin. Look for ingredients like resveratrol, acai, blueberry extract, white tea, green tea, and vitamin E, advises Macrene Alexiades, M.D., a New York City dermatologist.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>4. They Embrace Oil</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">&#8220;I first discovered oils when I was on a modeling trip in the south of France,&#8221; Maran says. &#8220;I saw an older French woman with beautiful skin and asked her what she used.&#8221; (It was argan oil.)</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">&#8220;Think about the seed of a plant, where the oil comes from,&#8221; Close says. &#8220;It contains the whole life force and genetic imprint of the plant.&#8221; Oils such as evening primrose, rose hip, and argan contain omega-3s and -6s that protect cells and improve barrier function. &#8220;Basically, they hydrate your skin,&#8221; Close says. And unlike mineral oils, they&#8217;re absorbed into the skin &#8212; instead of just sitting on top of the surface, blocking pores and causing breakouts.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">&#8220;I use coconut oil for everything, without fail,&#8221; says Karyn Calabrese, a holistic health expert. it works as a makeup remover and as an intensive moisturizer. Jojoba oil is even lighter and keeps oily skin in balance.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>5. They Eat Fat, Fruits, and Veggies</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Good fats and oils, like olive oil and fish-oil supplements, are important for keeping the skin lubricated, our experts say. &#8220;You should not be avoiding healthy fat if you want to maintain young-looking skin,&#8221; Kramer says. Studies show that fats and oils help improve the skin&#8217;s barrier function, reduce water loss, and actually decrease inflammation. Getting antioxidants through your diet is also important, says Elizabeth K. Hale, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. Choose fruits, leafy vegetables, and green tea. Your skin cells completely turn over every 28 days &#8212; and those new cells incorporate whatever raw materials you&#8217;re putting into your body.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>6. They Exercise</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Working out releases anti-inflammatory endorphins, which help the skin heal and promote circulation, Wechsler says. They also increase microcirculation, which brings blood to skin cells. And studies show that healthy behavior in one part of your life carries into other areas, making your skin &#8212; and you &#8212; healthier as a result</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>7. They Practice Yoga, Get Massages, and Reduce Stress</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Even when it comes to skin care, the mind-body connection is key, says Amy Wechsler, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. Stress and emotional upheavals can make your skin look many years older than it actually is. When you&#8217;re stressed, cortisol molecules are at a higher concentration than anti-inflammatory molecules; cortisol breaks down collagen, promotes wrinkles, and causes dry skin.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><em>Source: Whole Living (Olessa Pindak)</em></span></p>
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		<title>Combs and Brushes for Natural Hair</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/combs-and-brushes-for-natural-hair/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/combs-and-brushes-for-natural-hair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hair]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12642</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Should you or should you not comb or brush curly, kinky, nappy hair? In my opinion nothing works for everyone and there is not right or wrong answer. Some like to brush conditioner in their hair, others may not like their hair combed or brushed at all. Try various ways to see how it reacts [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12642&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Should you or should you not comb or brush curly, kinky, nappy hair? In my opinion nothing works for everyone and there is not right or wrong answer. Some like to brush conditioner in their hair, others may not like their hair combed or brushed at all. Try various ways to see how it reacts to your hair.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Personally I rarely comb my hair and I occasionally brush my edges with a boar’s bristle brush while wearing a puff, ponytail or brush. To detangle, I fingercomb in the shower with tons of conditions about once every two weeks.</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Here are some pointers:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Take your comb or brush and rum it across the top of your hand- if it feels rough you can imagine what it’s doing to your hair and scalp.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Try avoid nylon bristles- they mostly have sharp edges and maybe tear or break textured hair.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Be sure to clean them often, especially if you comb or brush styling products through your hair. Check out the staying natural page.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Most importantly, be gentle while handling your hair.</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Check out the list below that features various combs and brushes to use on your natural hair. Most can be purchased from beauty supply stores offline. Combs and brushes comes in various sizes, shapes and colors.</span></p>
<h3 style="text-align:left;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Combs</span></strong></h3>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12782" title="Rat-Tail-Comb" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/rat-tail-comb.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Rat-Tail Comb</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Do Not</strong> use the teeth part of this comb unless you’ve straighten your hair!!! Use the “tail” to:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Gently lift, separate, arrange the hair.</span></li>
<li style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Part the hair for twists, bantu knots or other styles.</span></li>
<li style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">I also use it to gently scratch my scalp.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12784" title="Wide-tooth-comb" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/wide-tooth-comb.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Wide tooth Comb</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">This comb should be one of your must haves if you don’t already own one. This is used to detangle your hair. Here are more details about detangling.</span></p>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12787" title="Mebco-detangler" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/mebco-detangler.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Mebco Tortoise Sower Detangler</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">This is just another type of a hair detangling comb that works really well.</span></p>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/afro-pic.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12788" title="Afro-pic" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/afro-pic.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></a>Afro Pic</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">This comb is used to pick your hair out for an afro! It comes in all colors, different sizes and even ones with a first on the ends! Make sure you comb from the ends to the scalp.</span></p>
<h3 style="text-align:justify;"></h3>
<h3 style="text-align:justify;"></h3>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<h3 style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Brushes</span></strong></h3>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12789" title="Boar-bristle-brush" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/boar-bristle-brush.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />100* Boar’s Bristle Brush</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">This brush can be used to smooth back the hair for neat looking puffs, burns and ponytails. You don’t have to brush the entire hair, only the hair around the edges. Best used on wet hair.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Boar bristles are very soft.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Won’t damage the hair.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Wood brushed reduces levels of static electricity.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12790" title="Paddle-brush" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/paddle-brush.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Paddle Brush</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">This brush can be used if you wish to straighten your hair. First you detangle with a wide tooth comb, as hair dries, keep on detangling and combing with wide tooth comb (the hair should become semi straight).</span></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Then brush the semi-dry hair in sections with paddle brush.</span></p>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12791" style="margin-bottom:15px;" title="Denman-d4" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/denman-d4.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Denman D4</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">There are various types of Denman Brushes. You can detangle first with a wide tooth comb. Then brush the conditioner or your styling product through. Many naturals prefer using D4 which is a large styling brush with 9 rows of bristle. The bristles are very flexible and does not have “balls” on the end.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">For smoothing fine to medium hair</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Smooth nylon bristles grip &amp; control the style</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Use with a blowdryer to straighten natural movement</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">The more rows of bristles, the better the grip</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12792" title="Denman-d31" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/denman-d31.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Denman D31 Medium Volumiser</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">The D31 has 7-rows of bristle and is recommended for medium to long hair length. I like this brush better than the D4 because there are less bristles and they are further apart.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Use for the thicker hair types</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Wide spaced bristles flow easily through hair</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Ideal for detangling or brushing wet hair</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-12793" title="Vent-brush" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/vent-brush.jpg?w=470" alt=""   />Vent Brush</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;">Vent brushes have wide set bristles and holes in the base of the brush and is mostly used for blowdrying. Just be sure to detangle your hair before using this brush. The openings allow the air from the dryer to circulate. The Vent Brushes are heat resistant and can be easily cleaned with a little soap &amp; water.</span></p>
<div style="clear:both;"></div>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">How to clean your Combs &amp; Brushes</span></strong></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Boil a pot of water.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Take the boiling water and immediately place into a large bowl.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">While the water is boiling, you can take your brushes and under running water begin to comb the hair out your brushes.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Add a couple drops of detergent or bleach if you wish for disinfecting and stir.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Place your combs/brushes in the hot water and let sit for about 20-30 mins.</span></li>
<li><span style="color:#000000;">Take them out and let air dry.</span></li>
</ol>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><em><span style="color:#000000;">Source: </span></em><a title="MotownGirl" href="http://motowngirl.com/index.php/combs-brushes.html" target="_blank"><span style="color:#000000;">MotownGirl</span></a></p>
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		<title>Weight Loss Tip of the Week &#8211; Keep a Food Diary for a Week</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/18/weight-loss-tip-of-the-week-keep-a-food-diary-for-a-week/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/18/weight-loss-tip-of-the-week-keep-a-food-diary-for-a-week/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>lathakaranth</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weight Loss]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/?p=12763</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Note, it is a proven fact that people when asked about their daily diet, then tend to forget a number of things. Keeping a food journal for a week can be an invaluable resource for a successful diet. Writing down what you eat and what you drink for weeks can help you to see what you are [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12763&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-12766" title="Fooddiary" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/fooddiary1.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></p>
<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Note, it is a proven fact that people when asked about their daily diet, then tend to forget a number of things</strong>. Keeping a <a title="food journal" href="http://www.modeldietplan.com/food-journals.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color:#000000;">food journal</span></a> for a week can be an invaluable resource for a successful diet. Writing down what you eat and what you drink for weeks can help you to see what you are eating, and understand how much you are really consuming. Try writing down the calories next to each entry too, and then determine how many calories you want to eat daily in order to reach your maximum weight loss goals.<strong>  Being able to control what you eat can play a significant role in fast weight loss.  By having this information you can then adjust the foods you eat and save the required amount of calories so that you lose weight.</strong></span></p>
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		<title>4 Tips for Dealing with Natural Hair Shrinkage</title>
		<link>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/17/4-tips-for-dealing-with-natural-hair-shrinkage/</link>
		<comments>http://thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com/2012/01/17/4-tips-for-dealing-with-natural-hair-shrinkage/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:29:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>cdonalds22</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[All]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hair]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;Shrinkage&#8221; &#8212; has long been a problem for our male counterparts, who watch their manhood transform into a frightened turtle after taking a dip in the pool.  For good or for bad, we curly girls are not immune and also have to deal with shrinkage when it comes to our natural tresses. Naturalistas know that, [...]<img alt="" border="0" src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=thankgodimnatural.wordpress.com&amp;blog=7684496&amp;post=12836&amp;subd=thankgodimnatural&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" width="1" height="1" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/shrikage1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-7812" title="SHRIKAGE" src="http://thankgodimnatural.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/shrikage1.jpg?w=470" alt=""   /></a></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">&#8220;Shrinkage&#8221; &#8212; has long been a problem for our male counterparts, who watch their manhood transform into a frightened turtle after taking a dip in the pool.  For good or for bad, we curly girls are not immune and also have to deal with shrinkage when it comes to our natural tresses.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Naturalistas know that, when damp and tightly coiled, our hair can appear to be 50%, 33%, or even 25% of its true length. Shrinkage is a testament to the moisture level, porosity, and elasticity of healthy, curly hair. Although we at Thank God I’m Natural are all about loving the hair we’ve been born with, here is some tips to help you to counteract shrinkage and  display more length, while retaining your curly/kinky texture. We’ve done the research for you, so here are a few options to help you take back your curls – none of which should damage your hair provided you take the proper precautions.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Tip #1 &#8212; Weigh it Down</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Many naturals have discovered that certain leave-in conditioners, gels, and pomades can help to weigh your mane down and stretch the curl pattern in a way that elongates the hair. The key is to avoid products with alcohol which can dry your hair out. You also should avoid pore-clogging ingredients such as wax, petroleum, and mineral oil, which simply sit on top of the hair and scalp without providing any added moisture benefits</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">We here at TGIN like the Olive Oil variety of the <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/Styling-Gel/SBS-483104,default,pd.html"><span style="color:#000000;">Eco Styler Gel</span></a> when used in combination with the Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave in Conditioner.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Tip #2 &#8212; Blow it Out</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">You also can use a blow dryer coupled with a Denman brush or comb attachment to elongate afro-textured tresses.  You may remember references to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYYEq2yz2z4"><span style="color:#000000;">Afro Sheen</span></a>’s famous <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EN-Hpk4s7M"><span style="color:#000000;">Blowout Kit</span></a> from the 1970s – well the same concept applies today.  Fortunate for us naturals of the 2000s, we have come a long way with regard to the products that can protect our hair from heat.  Remember to moisturize your hair, seal it with oil, and use a thermal heat protecting product prior to blow drying your freshly washed and conditioned hair.  Blown out hair is soft, fluffy, and elongated, and comes close as possible to representing your true length. Another option, which involves less heat, is just using a blow dryer with a comb attachment to stretch or pick out your roots. Both are great for giving your hair more volume and length.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Tip #3 &#8212; Banding</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">It’s kind of obvious when you really think about it, but one of the best ways to elongate is to literally stretch your hair by pulling it back. You can experiment with “banding” your hair by using tight, covered elastic headbands or ponytail holders spaced out in segments to cover the length of your hair. Always be careful to avoid using too much tension to manipulate your hair.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">Banding can be done on wet, damp, or dry hair. You may choose to use a setting lotion or pudding that will gently smooth and hold your hair into its elongated state while banding. YouTube has a host of banding trial and error video tutorials. Don’t be afraid to play with your hair and see what works for you.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Tip #4 &#8212; Twisting &amp; Braiding</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">We all know that one of the most beautiful forms of combating shrinkage is twisting and braiding – these techniques have been used on natural hair for as long as we remember. As little girls, we can all remember what our hair would look like when our mothers took our braids and twists down. The byproduct of this type of manipulation was always elongated hair with a beautiful uniform wave pattern.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">For a more polished grown up look, we can use two strand twists, flat twists, and braids to have the appearance of more length. Avoid using too much tension to twist and braid your hair or you may risk damage from traction alopecia. Hair can be pulled firm, but not hard. Remember to moisturize your hair, seal it in with a little oil, and use a product that will hold your wave pattern long after the twists and braids are taken down. We like <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/Lock-Twist-Gel/SBS-311132,default,pd.html"><span style="color:#000000;">Organic Root Stimulator Lock and Twist Gel</span></a>. It is alcohol free and it never flakes.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;">If you&#8217;ve got shrinkage, now you have the tools in your hair arsenal that will tell it to stand down.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><em><strong>So how many of you experience shrinkage and what, if anything do you do to stretch your hair out?</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#000000;"><em>For more information about natural hair care, please pick up a copy of the book Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair now available at www.tginstore.com, Amazon.com, and Barnes &amp; Noble.</em></span></p>
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