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SCOUT e-Beauty November 2011

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

November 2011

Issue 25

Making plans

Please take a look at our new Limited Edition Bronzing Lotion – definitely going to be a hit for summer and our new lipstick shade Delight available at SCOUT makeover clinics ONLY.

Brisbane and Gold Coast Skincare Launch Evenings

Last week we held the Brisbane and Gold Coast launches of the SCOUT Cosmetics Skincare. They were fantastic, lots of women having fun playing with creams and makeup. I personally really enjoyed meeting everyone and having a laugh.

Thank you to the lovely Debbie Napoli for the use of her gorgeous home and also to Dee Cupples for providing Miss D’s her lovely Café/Gift shop in Tarragindi.

I am already hearing from many who purchased the skincare products at our Melbourne launch how much they love using them.

The four ‘must have’ products from the SCOUT collection are available now and can be purchased at Makeover clinics for the special price of $175 or on line at our SCOUT shop.

Inspiration for the month

“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently — they’re not fond of rules… you can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.”— Steve Jobs

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Limited Edition Bronzing Lotion is available for the summer months.

A luxurious blend of minerals delivered in a light easy to apply lotion.

$44.95 in a 90gram airless pump.

On the lipstick front we have added a summery fuchsia lipstick to the range in time for all those Christmas parties you will be attending. The new shade is called Delight and retails for $39.95

Join the SCOUT team in time for Summer and start your new career in time for 2012!!!

We welcome Tanja Iacovantuono who has joined our Melbourne team in October.

Tanja can be contacted on 0438 788 949.

We are also delighted to welcome Elizabeth Safrany who joined our Perth team.

Elizabeth can be contacted on 08 9378 1484.

Our annual Christmas Gift sale day / evening will be on Thursday 1^st December in Melbourne 10.30 – 2pm and again from 5pm – 8.30pm.

We will be sending invitations out soon, please let us know if you would like to attend. There will be sale items and each purchase will be beautifully gift wrapped so you do not have to do it.

If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous November offer of the Duo Botanical Shampoo and Conditioner as a Hostess gift, please call: 1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT – Limited Edition Bronzing Lotion

Due to many clients asking for a bronzing lotion we have decided to include a one in our range. Minerals in a lovely base of Grape seed oil, Vitamin E, Sandalwood and grapefruit seed extract this easy to apply lotion will have you looking stunning for all the Christmas and NY parties ahead!

Retails for $44.95!

To purchase these products and more ask your consultant or visit our online shop.

Beauty Tip: Timeless tip

I came across this little pearl in a Book called Domestic Bliss Written by Molly Dye.

It went like this:

“Late hours take a young girl’s bloom. She should always have a stated hour for rising in the morning, never later than six, so she can wash her face in the dew. And for going to bed, never later than 10.30.” Mrs Lance Rawson, 1894

Well things might be a little different these days but the basic advice is still true. Take your makeup off before you go to bed!!!

Inner Beauty: Happiness - be in the zone this summer and go with the flow

Have you ever experienced the feeling of absorption or being ‘lost in time’ when intensely involved in completing some activity.

I feel this sometimes when I am doing tasks running my business, especially when I am creating another product. Things are riding along well and I am feeling positive, lost in the pleasure of what I am doing, being creative and happy.

According to the Harvard Medical School, flow or ‘being in the zone’ is the mental state of operation in which a person in an activity is ‘fully immersed in a feeling of energised focus, full involvement, and success in the process of the activity’.

Practitioners in the field of positive psychology take the concept further by including flow as a fundamental ingredient for achieving a sense of happiness and well-being.

Originally proposed by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, professor of psychology at Claremont Graduate University in California, the hallmark of flow is:

‘a feeling of spontaneous joy, even rapture, while performing a task although flow is also described as a deep focus on nothing but the activity – not even oneself or one's emotions’.

According to Csíkszentmihályi, flow is a completely focused motivation. It is a single-minded immersion and represents perhaps the ultimate in harnessing the emotions in the service of performing and learning.

In flow, the emotions are not just contained and channelled, but positive, energised, and aligned with the task at hand.

Kay Cahill Allison of Harvard describes the feelings of flow during an ocean swim.

Flow is most likely to occur when you are wholeheartedly performing a task or activity for intrinsic purposes.

It occurs when you strike the right balance between challenge and skill. If the task is too challenging for your level of skill, anxiety creeps in. If your skill level exceeds the challenge, boredom sets in.

There are three basic conditions necessary to achieve the flow state:

One must be involved in an activity with a clear set of goals. This adds direction and structure to the task.
One must have a good balance between the perceived challenges of the task at hand and his or her own perceived skills. You must have confidence that you are capable to do the task.
The task must have clear and immediate feedback. This helps you negotiate any changing demands and allows you to adjust your performance to maintain the flow state.

Unfortunately, one cannot force oneself to enter flow. It just happens.

Csíkszentmihályi identifies the following ten factors as accompanying an experience of flow:

Clear goals (expectations and rules are discernible and goals are attainable and align appropriately with one's skill set and abilities). Moreover, the challenge level and skill level should both be high.
Focusing, a high degree of concentration on a limited field of attention (a person engaged in the activity will have the opportunity to focus and to delve deeply into it).
A loss of the feeling of self-consciousness, the merging of action and awareness.
Distorted sense of time, one's subjective experience of time is altered.
Direct and immediate feedback (successes and failures in the course of the activity are apparent, so that behavior can be adjusted as needed).
Balance between ability level and challenge (the activity is neither too easy nor too difficult).
A sense of personal control over the situation or activity.
The activity is intrinsically rewarding, so there is an effortlessness of action.
A lack of awareness of bodily needs (to the extent that one can reach a point of great hunger or fatigue without realizing it)
Absorption into the activity, narrowing of the focus of awareness down to the activity itself, action awareness merging.

Sylvie xx

SCOUT e-Beauty September 2011

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

September 2011

Issue 23

Time to Spring Clean our Wardrobes and Makeup Bags

I really love the new colour blocking - out now with the current fashions.

However, how do we incorporate this into our makeup?

I recently had this question posed to me at a clinic. Well I think that we can interpret the striking nature of the two contrasting colours by choosing one of the colour blocks and either using a slightly lighter shade of that colour on our lips (e.g. red or pink or tangerine).

Alternatively, choosing a blue, green or purple and subtly use it on the eye.

Just a suggestion.

Time to clear out the makeup bags.

Remembering that products such as mascara have a 6 month shelf life.

Cream based products once opened also have a reduced shelf life and need to be replaced.

Mineral powders last longer as they also have antimicrobial properties.

Successful Skincare Launch Evening

The Melbourne launch of SCOUT Cosmetics Skincare on Friday, 2nd September was a huge success.

Thank you to all who attended and made the night so very special.

There was a wonderful energy in the gorgeous Syrup boutique. The food provided by Carine was also very delicious.

I am already hearing from many who purchased products on the night, how much they love them.

The four ‘must have’ products from the SCOUT skincare collection are available now and can be purchased at makeover clinics for the special price of $175 or on line at our SCOUT shop.

Inspiration for the month

“I believe that one of life’s greatest risks is never daring to risk…Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time." - Oprah

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème was recently featured on Rescu – an innovative beauty industry website – as one of the must have cleansers for your skin.
Join the SCOUT team in October and start your new career in time for Christmas!!!
We welcome Lisa Brown in New York who has just joined our Consultant team.
We are planning our Skincare launch on the Gold Coast for November. We will keep you posted as to the venue.
Plan to come along if you are in Qld as I am sure it will be as much fun as our Melbourne one was.

If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous October offer of one skincare product + a mineral lip stick as a hostess gift, please call: 1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT Mineral Fluid Foundation

We have added a new shade to our Mineral Fluid Foundation.

Caramel has rounded the group off to four now.

A shade which sits in between our Camel shade and our Almond.

As we move towards the warmer weather this lovely sheer foundation is a perfect choice.

I personally use it as I would a tinted moisturizer and apply it effortlessly and rather quickly with my fingers.

Great when I have to rush out the door. Priced at $59.95

Beauty Tip: Change one of the Colours

Have you been applying your make up the same way since you were 17 years old?

An instant way to update a look is to simply change one of the colours you would normally use.

Or add a shade you have always wanted to try but never had the courage.

Another way is to attend one of our ‘Makeover Clinic’s’ - learn some new tricks and simply integrate them into your makeup application.

Inner Beauty: Make a Great Impression

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is one of my all time favourites movies.

I often think of the line when Marty Balsam says of Audrey Hepburn’s character; Holly Golightly: "I love the kid. She's a phony, but she's a real phony."

While we may not seek to create a whole new world and persona for ourselves as she does, we are almost wired to put forward a good impression for other people,.I think it is completely natural to put our best foot forward, so that people may begin to know and hopefully like us.

As a former flight attendant, I know how quickly a good impression can create good chemistry and I often feel energised when someone new engages me in a positive, friendly way.

You may hate small talk but being aware of how to ‘break the ice’ can do wonders for our confidence and take the stress out of social or business situations.

While it is true that ‘you never get a second chance to make a good first impression’ and people may form an opinion of us in the first ten seconds or so, it is still possible to stay a little natural while being aware of a few simple rules and not feel your are following a script that just isn’t you.

Fortunately, we do not all have to be quick-witted or well read or travelled to make a good first impression

So unlike the iconic Holly Golightly, retain a bit of authenticity and simply ‘be yourself’. This is something I remind myself when I am feeling a little insecure. Being myself is a genuine expression of who I am and whenever I think of this, I instantly relax.

Here are some simple ideas to keep in mind.

They are in addition to the must do’s of appropriate attire, punctuality and manners which should go without saying:

- Focus on the other person

The easiest way to get things flowing is to show interest in the other person and ‘be a good listener’ without bringing the conversation back to yourself.

We often like to share impressive things about ourselves, but it may be better to keep in mind 'How am I making the other person feel?'

By actively listening, encouraging someone to talk about themselves and responding genuinely without bringing it all back to you, there is an opportunity to build a rapport without any long pauses.

- Don’t interrogate the other person

Relax and ask questions with the focus on the other person.

However, avoid interrogating a new acquaintance and remember to speak slowly. Often nervousness makes us talk too fast.

- Stay positive

It sounds simple but if you are in a negative frame of mind – hide it.

Consciously suppress the bad mood when you meet someone new so you don’t come across as a complainer or sulk.

You do not want to bring the other person down. There is plenty of time later for revealing yourself slowly.

- Eye contact, your smile and your posture

Unconsciously, I think we read a lot into a person’s body language.

This means keeping a healthy level of eye contact, projecting a genuine smile and maintaining a relaxed upright posture.

It shows you are focused on them, happy to be with them and not a slouch (literally).

Be careful not to stare people out as this can quickly give the impression of arrogance.

- Get in sync

Generally, we are attracted to others who we can relate to and feel comfortable with - people broadly like us.

So adjusting your posture, voice, words and gestures to resonate with those of a new acquaintance is important.

- Use flattery sincerely and sparingly

I find most people have good ‘bull___’ detectors, so use flattery carefully and sincerely.

Your credibility is key and it is better to focus on the other person's accomplishments or achievements than to say you ‘like their tie’.

You don’t want to look like you praise everyone and you never know, an assertive new person may ask you what it is about their tie you like.

- Do onto others

Cut others a bit of slack if they make a bad impression on you.

Allow them the opportunity to recover the situation and demonstrate some self awareness.

I am not saying to suffer a fool gladly but we all know it is hard to be social sometimes and your understanding will elevate you instantly in their eyes.

- Try to remember names

It is not easy, but try to remember a person’s name. It shows you have made an effort and they are important.

- Laugh but stay away from humour

Be careful with humor. Being witty is great but don’t come across as sarcastic because you don't know who the other person is or what sensitivities they may have.

Sylvie

SCOUT e-Beauty August 2011

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~ To subscribe to SCOUT Cosmetics e-Beauty
Glimpses of Spring How our mood changes when the weather brightens up. Melbourne recently enjoyed some gorgeous sunny days and it was great to see people shedding their winter armour and going out and about in t-shirts. We recently took our boys to Mt.Buller with a group of friends and were blessed with this glorious weather. What a paradise it was. Soft, cold snow under our feet and blue, cloudless skies made for a very enjoyable weekend. Not to mention the great company. I have decided that we need to incorporate more adventure weekends away to renew the eyes and refresh the soul. Our Inner Beauty section below looks at How Love Affects your Health
The Melbourne launch of SCOUT Cosmetics Skincare is on Friday, September 2nd at Syrup Boutique - starts at 6 – 8.30pm. So please come along for a canapé and glass of champagne to help us celebrate. Four ‘must have’ products from the SCOUT collection are available now: Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème: 60ml - RRP $59.95 - A daily facial moisturising crème for normal / dry skin types. Six Oils of Rejuvenation: 25ml - RRP $49.95 - An anti-oxidant treatment for all skin types, especially dry skin. Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème: 125ml – RRP $39.95 - A daily cleansing crème for normal / dry skin types Daily C Plus - Treatment Gel: 60ml – RRP $44.95 - A daily treatment for all skin types.
Inspiration for the month of August The appearance of things change according to the emotions, and thus we see magic and beauty in them, while the magic and beauty are really in ourselves. Kahlil Gibran
SCOUT Cosmetics News Six Oils of Rejuvenation was recently featured on rescu – an innovative beauty industry website – as one of the top ten antioxidant products for your skin. Our SCOUT Consultant Package has been updated and we offer ‘Starter Kits’ from $99. So it is now easier than ever to join our Consultant team and start a new career – interested - read about becoming a SCOUT Consultant We would like to welcome Gaby Robinson to our Melbourne team. Gaby is taking bookings for SCOUT Clinics and also SCOUT Workshops for the Corporate, Fitness sector. Gaby can be contacted on 0438 319 918 0438 319 918 or gaby@scoutcosmetics.com If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous September offer of one skincare product + a mineral lip stick as a hostess gift, please call: 1300 525 077 1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com
Prouct Focus of the Month – Vitamin C Treatment Gel When I was planning our antioxidant skincare range, Vitamin C was the number one ingredient on my list to include. I also wanted to streamline the beauty routine, so I have combined the toning process with our treatment process. SCOUT Vitamin C Treatment Gel is a unique product which instantly tightens the pores and prepares the face for our replenishing process. It also delivers a layer of antioxidants to our skin in the form of Vitamin C, Vitamin rich oils and extracts in a lovely healing Aloe Vera base. For those with an oily complexion this step may be all you need to revitalize, refine and protect your skin. However, if you need to follow on with a moisturizing crème, SCOUT vitamin C Treatment Gel provides the perfect base and reinforces the moisturising action.
Beauty Tip: Stealing a moment with Six Oils of Rejuvenation Many of us love our busy lives. But this makes snatching moments during the day for ourselves all the more important. And it is the small things that can be most rejuvenating. At night, I try to incorporate a little ‘wind down’ time into my cleansing and moisturising routine. When using my SCOUT Six Oils of Rejuvenation, I momentarily massage it into my skin and inhale the soothing aroma. Just close your eyes for a moment, slow your breathing and relax.
Inner Beauty: ‘for better and for worse’ How Love Affects your Health When we meet someone special or fall in love, our expectations, perceptions and reasoning can get carried away with excitement of it all. So it is likely that the persons eating patterns, drinking habits, exercise intensity or anxiety levels may be the last thing on your mind. But choice of romantic partner and all that comes with them will clearly influence your lifestyle and future wellbeing too. For better and for worse? Relationships generally are a big part of our happiness but the impact on our health really can be ‘for better and for worse’.
Writing in Psychology Today, Rebecca Webber says ‘A large body of research shows that relationships steer our physical well-being as well as our emotional health. A romantic partner often has more influence on our behaviour than anyone else. Exactly how he or she affects our health is sometimes common sense (if not obvious) and sometimes as mysterious as love itself’. When we think of our health and fitness, we often focus on just us; our individual weight, diet, how far we walk or number of visits to the gym. And while relationships that last through the initial emotional whirlwind, obviously happen among people who have ‘comparable backgrounds, attitudes, and behaviours’, differences in lifestyles and habits clearly influence each other's physical condition. And when two people marry, their habits become even more alike. For example, it has been suggested that spouses increasingly influence each others' exercise habits, doctor visits, and use of alcohol and cigarettes as time goes by. According to Webber, ‘Soul mates can even develop the same afflictions over time — a condition in one spouse often places the other at increased risk for the same disorder. This may be true for cancer, stroke, arthritis, hypertension, asthma, depression, and peptic ulcer disease’. How do we affect our partner’s health? Relationships are complicated. Couples may also influence one another’s health by trying to control their lifestyle or social life, for example trying to keep their ‘other half’ wholesome or sensible so they reflect well on ourselves. A less obvious path is or what may be called ‘mood contagion’, where one partner's anxiety is passed on or assumed by the other, taking a toll on their mind and body. Another unintended consequence of pairing up is when we pick up vices or foibles such as smoking, drinking or even types of food. For instance, where too much French food, pizza, wine and coffee or a cigarette become really important rituals of pleasure for the couple. Sometimes these shared indulgences play an adaptive function for the relationship and one partner may feel betrayed and frustrated if the other wants to cut your mutual illicit pleasure. And if you are made to feel like a hedonist for sleeping though the 6am jog, it is likely a passive-aggressive type response, such popping a cork on Friday night, may emerge in the hope that the health kick won’t last and things will get back to normal. Being a Role Model for Your Partner not Nagging The good news is if we take a considered approach, we can influence our lovers health just by changing our own behaviour. This is what Jody Sindelar, a professor at Yale University in the US calls a ‘spousal effect; ‘If one spouse quit smoking, the other was six to eight times more likely to swear off cigarettes, too. If one gave up alcohol, the other was five times more likely to stop drinking. And if one got a flu shot or a cholesterol screening, chances were the other would, too. Contrary to what you might imagine, these effects aren't necessarily the result of a conscientious wife needling her husband; men had as much influence on women as women had on men’. Having said that, the exception appears to be exercise. It seems that because getting in shape takes the most effort and willpower and leading by example is not enough. Perhaps the most important point is that nagging does not work. If you want a partner to alter his or her temperament or bad habits, nagging can have the opposite of its intended effect: Unfortunately the more you demand change, the less the other person is likely to change. Better to take things slowly and focus on the things you have in common while trying to reduce the importance of those that may be destructive. It is a cliché but maybe it comes down to moderation – of the good and the bad. While couples who thrive or suffer together may grow closer for the experience, if the divergence in their expectations, needs or routine changes too dramatically, they can simply grow apart. So not too much of a good thing and no cold turkey.

SCOUT e-Beauty July 2011

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

To subscribe to SCOUT Cosmetics e-Beauty

Enjoying a glorious Australian Winter

We are well into the middle of winter in the Southern Hemisphere and the cold days and chilly nights seem to be the topic everywhere I go. Everyone trying to resist the temptation to hibernate inside.

Winter is a time when our skin can be drier than usual and need a little more TLC.

If you are using our skincare products and if you are feeling the drying effects of Winter, it may be time to add a little boost of ‘six oils of rejuvenation’ to your moisturizer. Just add 2 – 3 drops in the morning, mix in your hand and apply.

Foundation also plays a great part in preventing the elements from drying our skin as it creates a barrier. Whether you use a powder, crème or fluid, make sure you smooth on some moisturizer before applying your foundation.

Our Inner Beauty section below looks at predictability in relationships and five ways to find discovery and excitement again.

SCOUT Skincare Promotion

I am pleased to say we have extended our skincare launch promotion.

Four ‘must have’ products from the SCOUT collection are available now at clinics for a special discount price of $175:

Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème: 60ml - RRP $59.95 - A daily facial moisturising crème for normal / dry skin types.
Six Oils of Rejuvenation: 25ml - RRP $49.95 - An anti-oxidant treatment for all skin types, especially dry skin.
Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème: 125ml – RRP $39.95 - A daily cleansing crème for normal / dry skin types
Daily C Plus - Treatment Gel: 60ml – RRP $44.95 - A daily treatment for all skin types.

Clinics have been booking fast and many lovely Hostesses have taken advantage of our ‘two skincare product reward’ promotion.

If you or a friend would like to host a SCOUT Cosmetics clinic during the month of August, our new Hostess Gift offered is ‘one skincare product of your choice + a mineral lipstick when you host a SCOUT cosmetics clinic.

Inspiration for the month of July

“The man of wisdom is never of two minds; the man of benevolence never worries; the man of courage is never afraid. The fact is, that to do anything in the world worth doing, we must not stand back shivering and thinking of the cold and danger, but jump in and scramble through as well as we can.” Robert Cushing

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Our SCOUT Consultant Package has been updated and we offer ‘Starter Kits’ from $99.

So it is now easier than ever to join our Consultant team and start a new career – interested - read about becoming a SCOUT Consultant

We would like to welcome Chiaki Kojima on the Gold Coast.

Chiaki is planning to take SCOUT to the Japanese market and frankly we cannot wait.

Chiaki can be contacted on 0439-817-021.

If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous August offer of one skincare product + a mineral lip stick as a hostess gift, please call:

1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Product Focus of the Month – Six Oils of Rejuvenation

Is our hero product in the SCOUT skincare range.

I know that many of you are wary about using an Oil on your skin.

Let me alleviate these concerns.

This lightweight oil has many heavyweight benefits and I encourage those of you who already have your six oils to enjoy the evening ritual of massaging it lightly into your skin. as it helps to increase circulation and nutrition to the cells and relax your mind.

The six chosen organic oils are a deeply hydrating blend which are high in essential fatty acids - the building blocks of cellular membranes and Vitamin C which is an essential component in the production of collagen.

The delightful fragrance of Ylang Ylang and Rose Geranium not only smell divine they help to balance and heal.

Carrot Oil which is rich in beta carotene a precursor to Vitamin A combines with Vitamin E to rejuvenate and restore suppleness to dry, damaged and stressed skin while you sleep.

This fabulous oil can be used alone or added to the Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème to give it a boost.

To purchase these products and more visit our online shop.

Beauty Tip: Pomegranate – an ancient fruit with proven benefits

Pomegranate was used for healing purposes according to the ancient Egyptian papyrus.

It’s hard to imagine that such a lush and pretty fruit actually has any benefits. It is packed with antioxidant properties assisting with preventing fine lines and wrinkles due to its’ skin renewal abilities.

It does this by helping to block free radical damage and when skin has been damaged it is known to assist with the regeneration of tissues.

The Punicic acid (an omega 5 conjugated fatty acid) is the ingredient which is effective in the regeneration of the cells.

Benefits of Pomegranate can be achieved not only topically but also by drinking the lovely juice.

It is a main ingredient in our Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème.

Inner Beauty: Does Too Much Predictability Lessen Passion?

When our children were younger, one of my favourite things to do, to create a bit of spontaneity in our predictable toddler and work filled lives. I would organise our babysitter to come over for a few hours on a Friday around 5pm. Then I would call my husband at work and ask him if he could get off work just a little earlier than usual and to meet me for a date (going somewhere local for a drink).

This was all done on the spur of the moment.

Of course there were times when the babysitter could not help out but had I pre-planned it, it would not have been spontaneous.

The rule of the 2 hour date was that we would spend the first 10 minutes talking about the children and then the rest of the time we each spoke about our individual hopes and dreams and our joint family plans. It was such a nice way to reconnect and it was at this time that the genesis of SCOUT Cosmetics was planned.

Because these were, by necessity, only occasional escapes, they became quite special and we still talk about how much we got out of them. A couple of drinks out of the routine and then happy to get back home.

So, how do we balance the choice between security of predictability in a relationship and our lives with the thrill of the new and the excitement of adventure?

It is almost accepted wisdom that it is good for you to get out of your ‘comfort zone’ every now and then.

But for many of us, while the idea of adventure is attractive and often in our thoughts, we also crave the familiar and routine. And of course these competing needs are just as relevant for couples as well as individuals.

While we like our partner to ‘be there for us’ we may also fear that too much security and routine in a relationship may lead to monotony or that sooner or later comfort dulls the mind and kills passion.

And if the juggle is difficult enough for individuals, how will we go in an intimate relationship, where we need to manage these things mutually. While we may worry about drifting apart, often life can be complicated enough to deal with.

Why do we choose security over continued discovery?

Clinical Psychologist and author of When Love Stumbles: Dr Randi Gunter puts it this way:

‘The partners in a new relationship are initially very willing to embrace whatever adventures their interaction may bring. As they get to know each other and that rate of new discovery slows, the partners become more concerned about the relationship's future. One or both partners limit any threatening personal transformations and reward each other instead for predictable interactions. They become partners who strive to accept each other's limitations rather than challenge them’.

Security in a relationship when built on trust, reliability and mutual feelings is a good thing. But when things are simply familiarity and predictability, something has got to give eventually.

Gunter says ‘When people have given up challenge and discovery in exchange for security, they are in danger of investing less energy because the relationship does not demand it. As a result, they stop sharing any ideas that might threaten what they are protecting….They offer only what they believe will be accepted, and stop searching for any new knowledge that would risk their partner's rejection’.

Relationships need to be nurtured and too much predictability can lead to indifference. Over time, apathy can turn to exasperation, annoyance, and irritation. The security that once was their protective castle now becomes their prison. They have unwittingly become bored and boring to each other.

How to Find Discovery and Excitement Again

If you and your partner fight over trivial issues, are offhand or terse with each other, or go long periods without talking or laughing, what can you do to revitalise interest in each other?

Australian relationship expert, Dr Gabrielle Morrissey also points out the ‘variety’ as being one of the fundamental factors: ‘Not just sexual variety, but inject your relationship with variety in general. Too often couples say we just grew apart. Prevent this by trying new things together. Build more common ground together by finding new hobbies and interests as a couple’.

Psychotherapist, Maud Purcell writing on PsychCentral echoes these points in her Relationship Revival Program:

‘Make the marriage your priority, not an afterthought. Set aside regular time to be alone with your partner. If kids are in the picture, hunt for a “network” of trusted babysitters. Start doing some of the things that used to bring you joy, and helped you to feel more connected. There are plenty of activities that you can do for free — a long walk, star gazing or window-shopping are all simple pleasures that can bring you closer together.
Resuscitate your romance. Remember how the sparks flew when you first met? Surprise your spouse with a homemade Valentine (any day of the year!) and a bottle of champagne. Light up the bedroom with candles, or put a love note in his briefcase. Last but not least, initiate lovemaking. Passion is the glue in a marriage — it helps you feel close to your mate, and makes getting through rough times a lot easier.
Accept what you can’t change. Much marital strife is caused by the belief that you cannot be happy in your marriage as long as you must live with your partner’s bad habits or imperfections. Have you noticed that no matter how much you gripe and moan, these things don’t change? Rather than trying to control what you can’t, work around his quirks and focus on the positive.
Be attractive, inside and out. “Married” doesn’t have to mean complacent. Continue to learn and experience new things, and share these with your partner. Eat right, exercise, rest and make the most of your appearance.
Improve communication and negotiation skills. Being a good listener is key to healthy communication. Even if you don’t agree with what he’s had to say, empathize with his position. If you must be critical, convert criticism into a request for behavioral change by stating it positively. Most important, apologize when you are wrong’.

SCOUT e-Beauty June 2011

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

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Enjoying an Australian Winter

June. The half way point of the year and a month when I usually spend a little time reassessing my goals and what I have achieved thus far.

Taking myself off for a walk to clear the head becomes a refreshing and invigorating experience. Oh how lovely to have the change in seasons albeit without a wild wind chill, some snow or really short days.

I am also enjoying the chance to snuggle up on the couch with one or all of my sons and losing myself in a book or mag. Simple.

We have extended our skincare launch promotion. Four ‘must have’ products from the SCOUT collection are available now at clinics for a special discount price of $175:

Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème: 60ml - RRP $59.95 - A daily facial moisturising crème for normal / dry skin types.

Six Oils of Rejuvenation: 25ml - RRP $49.95 - An anti-oxidant treatment for all skin types, especially dry skin.
Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème: 125ml – RRP $39.95 - A daily cleansing crème for normal / dry skin types

Daily C Plus - Treatment Gel: 60ml – RRP $44.95 - A daily treatment for all skin types.

Clinics have been booking fast and many lovely Hostesses have taken advantage of our ‘two skincare product reward’ promotion, which ends at the end of July - if you or a friend would like to host a SCOUT Cosmetics clinic during the month of July you will receive two products from the SCOUT skincare collection free of charge.

So call your Consultant today on 1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Inspiration for the month of June

“A woman is like a tea bag - you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.”

— Eleanor Roosevelt

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Our SCOUT Consultant Package has been updated and we offer ‘Starter Kits’ from $99. So it is now easier than ever to join our Consultant team and start a new career – interested - read about becoming a SCOUT Consultant
We would like to welcome Renae Kogler, one of our new Consultants on the Gold Coast. Renae can be contacted on 0422 911 524
In Melbourne, Julie Ho has joined our team and can be contacted on 0403 716 331. Julie has been sponsored by Janet Blewett, who can be contacted on 0404 741 729.

If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous offer of two skincare products reward as a hostess gift, please call

1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Product Focus of the Month – Antioxidant Skincare

SCOUT Cosmetic’s anti-oxidant skincare range contains the finest plant-derived, biodynamic, organic and natural ingredients.

Our mission is to provide the purest, most effective, premium quality skincare products based on natural, high performance formulations.

While our formulations and approach to natural skincare are sophisticated and research based, we believe a good beauty routine is about simplicity: restore - maintain - preserve - protect the skin.

SCOUT Cosmetics has a holistic approach to beauty that seeks to ‘bridge the gap between nature, science, elegance and glamour’.

We believe beautiful skin is the result of a healthy lifestyle, gentle, thorough cleansing and effective hydration.

Product Focus of the Month – Antioxidant Skincare

SCOUT Cosmetic’s anti-oxidant skincare range contains the finest plant-derived, biodynamic, organic and natural ingredients.

Our mission is to provide the purest, most effective, premium quality skincare products based on natural, high performance formulations.

While our formulations and approach to natural skincare are sophisticated and research based, we believe a good beauty routine is about simplicity: restore - maintain - preserve - protect the skin.

SCOUT Cosmetics has a holistic approach to beauty that seeks to ‘bridge the gap between nature, science, elegance and glamour’.

We believe beautiful skin is the result of a healthy lifestyle, gentle, thorough cleansing and effective hydration.

Beauty Tip: Before a big night out.

Rub an ice cube all over your face. Pat skin dry, apply your moisturizer and then your makeup.

Gotu Kola - ‘elixir of life’

I have heard this herb called the ‘elixir of life’.

In China it was used in an elixir called the Fountain of Youth. Ayurvedic Indian medicine uses this herb as a traditional remedy for skin conditions, wounds and bruises. Research is being conducted at Sydney University following invitro studies of this herb as to its wound healing ability. It soothes and softens the skin. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and known to reduce scarring.

I personally could not wait to include this herb in one of my skincare preparations. It features in our Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Moisturiser and our Vit C Plus treatment Gel.

Next month we will focus on Pomegranate another ingredient in our Moisturiser.

Inner Beauty: What you say matters to me - Oprah

Okay, so The Oprah Show will no longer grace our screens and I must admit that in recent years it was only on a rare occasion that I turned on the TV during the daytime as I work.

However, I was sad to hear that the show had ended. I watched the final show (the one where Oprah spoke for the entire show) and yes I was moved.

Her message that night resonated deeply with me and I silently vowed that I would try to employ the message that Oprah was trying to get out to everyone watching. In particular, I am going to make sure that I make an effort to do the following with my own children and my husband. Yes, everyone wants to know:

'Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?'

Think about it?

Do you really try to hear, see and listen?

I know, it is a little deep but Oprah does that to you.

Personally, there have been times I have been too busy or too frazzled to really take the time with people.

However when I have, the memory and the person’s face is clearly etched in my mind. That is because they had an expression on their faces which reflected that someone had in some way ‘seen and cared about who they are’!

Here is the quote directly from her show which prompted me to share it with you.

"I've talked to nearly 30,000 people on this show, and all 30,000 had one thing in common: They all wanted validation.

If I could reach through this television and sit on your sofa or sit on a stool in your kitchen right now, I would tell you that every single person you will ever meet shares that common desire. They want to know: 'Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?

Understanding that one principle, that everybody wants to be heard, has allowed me to hold the microphone for you all these years with the least amount of judgment. Now I can't say I wasn't judging some days. Some days, I had to judge just a little bit. But it's helped me to stand and to try to do that with an open mind and to do it with an open heart.

It has worked for this platform, and I guarantee you it will work for yours. Try it with your children, your husband, your wife, your boss, your friends. Validate them.. 'I see you. I hear you. And what you say matters to me”.

Sylvie xx

SCOUT e-Beauty May 2011

Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

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A pure, luxurious and effective anti-oxidant skincare range

May has begun with much excitement at SCOUT Cosmetics.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the SCOUT Skincare Collection to complement our ‘naturally oriented’ mineral make-up and hair care collections.

The SCOUT range has four ‘must have’ products:

Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème: 60ml - A daily facial moisturising crème for normal / dry skin types. RRP $59.95

Six Oils of Rejuvenation: 25ml - An anti-oxidant treatment for all skin types, especially dry skin. RRP $69.95

Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème: 125ml - A daily cleansing crème for normal / dry skin types. RRP $39.95

Daily C Plus - Treatment Gel: 60ml - A daily treatment for all skin types. RRP $44.95

To celebrate the launch - if you or a friend would like to host a SCOUT cosmetics clinic during the months of May, June and July you will receive two products from the range free of charge. So get in quick and book a clinic.

Call your Consultant on 1300 525 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Inspiration for the month of May

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people

will never forget how you made them feel.” By educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director Maya Angelou

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Our SCOUT Consultant Package has been updated and now offers ‘Starter Kits’ from $99. So it is now easier than ever to join our Consultant team and start a new career – interested - read about becoming a SCOUT Consultant
We are delighted to welcome Carolyn Walker our new Consultant in Port Melbourne, Victoria. Please call her on 0409 139 263 if you would like to book a Clinic.
On May 26^th SCOUT will be part of the Biggest Morning Tea in Brighton, Victoria. SCOUT cosmetics will donate 10% of sales at this event. Please call Sonya 0409 233396 if you would like to donate or come to this event.
Early June, I will be in Queensland for a series of presentations and clinics. If you or a friend would like to host a clinic and receive our fabulous offer of two skincare products as a hostess please call 1300 52 077 or email enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

Product Focus of the Month – Skincare

SCOUT Cosmetics’ anti-oxidant skincare range contains the finest plant-derived, bio-dynamic, organic and natural ingredients

Our mission is to provide the purest, most effective, premium quality skincare products based on naturally oriented, high performance formulations.

SCOUT Cosmetics has a holistic approach to beauty that seeks to ‘bridge the gap between nature, science, elegance and glamour’.

We believe beautiful skin is the result of a healthy lifestyle, gentle, thorough cleansing and effective hydration.

To purchase these products and more visit our online shop.

Beauty Tip: Papaya

Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which is one of our key ingredients in our cleansing crème.

Papain in Papaya is considered a very gentle exfoliant which helps to break down dead skin cells.

It softens the skin and can help smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

When the cellular waste and oil is removed you are left with a brightened complexion.

Papaya also has effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Known for great antibacterial and wound healing abilities and to clear up skin problems, papaya has extensively been used in medical conditions to clear the skin from abnormal skin growth and skin diseases.

Inner Beauty: Embrace the siesta – Recharge to be stronger, happier, and perform better

The science is clear: our well being is greatly improved by a regular, good nights sleep.

What is less well known are the benefits of an afternoon siesta or catnap to improve mood, cognition and working memory.

A catnap is considered by many to be an indulgence.

But when I think of the rush of activity people around me expect to cram into their days, it seems a 20 minute break, is definitely something to go for, not be afraid of.

And there have been a number of high achieving and reputed champions of the nap, including Albert Einstein, Leonardo Da Vinci , Winston Churchill, Salvador Dali, Eleanor Roosevelt and Bill Clinton

In fact as author of Beauty Sleep, Michael J. Breus, a Clinical Psychologist and Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine has said, ‘some sleep experts think naps should have the status of exercise and I agree! They make us feel stronger, happier, and able to perform better’.

A catnap is different to a good nights sleep and certainly not a substitute; it’s when you fall into this semiconscious space for a while where you are not sound asleep or fully awake. Such light sleep can be meditative. As you nap, the streams of thoughts and feelings can gel together in ways that doesn't happen when you're in a deep sleep.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to give a power-nap a go:

The first step is to ‘give yourself permission’. We are almost programmed to think an afternoon rest is not an adult thing to do. So it is important to remove any lingering doubts about what you are doing and certainly remove the distraction of doubting colleagues or partners if you can.
Don’t worry about position as long as you are comfortable. Not many of us can lie down at 2pm, so if you are at your desk just relax.
When you sleep under normal circumstances, your brain cycles through several different stages from light sleep to deeper sleep, to REM sleep, to wakefulness. So, the key to napping is not to fall into the deeper stages of sleep. That's why a 15 to 30 minute nap is key. Napping more than that will probably leave you irritable or groggy, so use an alarm clock.
It's important to keep a healthy night-time sleep schedule if you're a power-napper.

Breur advises ‘Aim to take a nap 8 hours after your wake time, but no later than 3:30 p.m. (otherwise your nap could disrupt your ability to fall asleep that night, especially if you’re early to bed).

Don’t worry if you cannot doze-off. If the experience is restful and meditative you will definitely benefit.

Cat napping - Good for the mind, body and soul!

Sylvie xx

T: 1300 525 077 W: scoutcosmetics.com E: enquiries@scoutcosmetics.com

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SCOUT e-Beauty April 2011

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

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Autumn Beauty

Autumn: with all her beautiful, rustic colours, has arrived.

I am taking inspiration from a series of pictures I happened upon recently which reflected a relaxed Autumn theme.

The colours in my garden are simply glorious at the moment, the sunlight is different and it is neither too hot or too cold.

This month we introduce some new Autumn lipstick colours, tell you about our new skincare range and take a look at the science of kissing.

I would also like to take this opportunity to Thank the wonderful ladies in Perth who Hosted and Attended the Makeover Clinics I presented there. I had an absolute blast. You girls ‘Rock’!!!!

Inspiration – ‘Autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower’ Albert Camus (French Novelist & Essayist 1913-1960)

SCOUT Antioxidant Skincare is almost here!!! Not long now

I cannot wait to showcase our four new skincare products.

To celebrate we are making a very special offer for hostesses of SCOUT ‘makeover clinics’ in Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast and Perth.

For the months of May, June and July Hostesses will receive two (full size) products from our skincare range absolutely free (valued at $110):

Lemon Myrtle and Papaya Cleansing Crème 125ml $39.95; and
Six Oils of Rejuvenation 25ml $69.95.

And remember, a clinic can be with you and just three friends. This is a fabulous offer and I absolutely guarantee you will love our new products.

SCOUT Cosmetics is Growing

Are you interested in changing your career and becoming your own boss? Do you have a friend in need of a new challenge?

Are you looking to earn some extra income to pay for the holiday your family needs or to help with school fees.

Our New Consultant plan makes it more achievable than ever.

For a minimal initial outlay of just $99, get started on your new business.

Facilitate one clinic each week and you could be well on your way to realizing your goals – call 1300 525 077.

Mariam Issa – an East African culinary experience

I was inspired last month by a chance meeting that greatly expanded my culinary and musical horizons.

Born in Somalia and raised in Kenya, Mariam Issa has cooked for over 30 years, having first started cooking at the age of ten.

Her passion for making a difference and helping to educate and empower has inspired Mariam to start her business. “I wanted to both celebrate and bridge the cultural differences between my ethnic community and adopted Australian culture’.

Food is a great catalyst to create awareness and Mariam feels privileged she can use this power of unique cuisines to connect communities. “I bring my fine tradition of East African menus to your home and businesses so you can help me make a difference” she says.

Since arriving in Australia over ten years ago, Mariam has enjoyed sharing her experiences and diverse African heritage with friends and Melbourne’s foodie culture.

Encouraged by many friends who loved her cooking and a perceived need for diversity of food in the Bayside area, she started her catering and cooking class business.

Go to Cookwithmariam or contact Mariam on 0423 312 725

Product Focus of the Month – New Colour shade – Lipstick ‘Courage’

Courage is the newest shade in our range of ‘lead free’ lipsticks.

A shade which will perfectly complement an Autumn makeup.

Autumn Wish is another shade I would recommend when requiring a deeper hue, along with one of my favourites Excite.

If you are wanting to add just a wash of colour or to enhance a subtle shade, I recommend Enchant, Daring, Elegance or Evening Mood.

Eye shadow colours which come to mind when in an Autumn mood are The Promise, which will absolutely make blue/grey/green eyes pop.

You may also consider the ever popular Lilac Wine, Holiday and Fantasy.

Beauty Tip - Cleanse Now

Make time to start Autumn with a deep cleansing facial.

You can quite easily do one at home or book yourself into your favourite salon.

Once you have deep cleansed, it is important to follow up with a mask, nourishing treatment and moisturise, moisturise, moisturise.

You are now ready for the colder months ahead.

Inner Beauty: Let’s talk about Lips and Kissing

Do you remember your first romantic kiss?.

I was intrigued by the title of a new book: The Science of Kissing: What Our Lips Are Telling Us by University of Texas Biologist, Sheril Kirshenbaum.

Kissing seems such a natural thing to do. Whether it’s a romantic kiss with a partner, a boisterous kiss of a child or a social kiss on the cheek of a friend.

As a visual species, the lips play a vital part in attraction. Why else would lipstick be such a universal beauty ‘must have’?

The book expands on new research about the biology of love or what I have always thought of as the ‘chemistry’ between a couple. It explains very simply the work of the actual chemicals in our bodies which are responsible for the ‘symptoms’ we connect with falling in love.

According to Kirshenbaum, mouth-kissing can deliver a couple ‘a complex sensory bonanza’: ‘Our lips are fine-tuned to feel, thanks to their original job, testing the texture and temperature of food. As we develop, we use our mouths for nursing and, in some cultures, for passing pre-chewed food to infants..

By linking lip stimulation with a feeling of love and security, these behaviors may have laid a foundation for romantic kissing later in life’.

A kiss sets off powerful and sensual brain chemistry. For instance, research shows that with a new partner, kissing releases dopamine that contributes to that feeling of craving, obsession and desire.

When the dopamine rush dies down, kissing releases the so-called ‘love hormone’ oxytocin, a chemical that can promote trust and bonding.

In fact, high levels of oxytocin in new parents are thought to foster lifelong attachment between mother and child.

Serotonin is also present which elevates mood and may help spark obsessive thoughts about a potential partner.

Author of The Anatomy of Love, Rutgers University Anthropologist Helen Fisher, says kissing evolved to fulfill three essential needs: sex drive, romantic love and attachment - ‘romantic kissing is a part of more than 90% of human cultures, and its role helps us find partners, commit to one person and keep couples together long enough to have a child’.

Sylvie xx

SCOUT e-Beauty March 2011

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

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The Birthstone of March is Aquamarine

Aquamarine is one of my favourite shades and reminiscent of the deep blue of the sea. It is evocative of light and the sky.

Our March e-Beauty provides some ideas to help bring light and colour into your life.

We introduce our new luxurious mineral liquid eyeliner.

Due to many requests and after much research we have also added a waterproof mascara to our range.

And to highlight the success of Ovarian Cancer Australia Awareness campaign we bring you some photos of the ‘Lighting of the Sails’ event at the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Please pass on our e-Beauty to your friends – they may enjoy some news, ideas and inspiration!!

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Our SCOUT Consultant Package has been updated and now offers ‘Starter Kits’ from $99. So it is now easier than ever to join our Consultant team and start a new career.
Our gorgeous mineral makeup products can now be found in a most delightful Eco-friendly store in Burleigh Heads, Queensland.

Please check out EcoVida and say hello to the lovely Cindy. Our Senior Consultant Kim will be presenting a VIP ‘Makeover Clinic’ at EcoVida on Friday 25th March.

Please let us know if you would like to join us – 0417 079 660. Eco Vida – shop 2, 33 James St, Burleigh Heads.

Also, check out the March / April issue of glamorous Gold Coast Magazine with my article on the ‘Bright Lip’ trend and how to wear it
On 23rd of March – SCOUT will be providing the makeup at The National Gallery of Victoria – Fabulous Fashion Day parade – special guest compare will be Dhav Naidu. Find out more
I will be presenting some SCOUT ‘Makeover Clinics’ in Perth on the 24th and 25th of March. Yes, we are launching in Perth.

If you have any friends living in Perth who would like to experience SCOUT Cosmetics or might be interested in joining the SCOUT Cosmetics team please let them know and they can contact me.

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT Sheer Shine Lip Gloss

Such a versatile product and a definite must for every makeup bag. Imparts a beautiful wash of colour.

It can be used to soften a lipstick or to add shine and extra nourishment.

Of course our lip glosses do not contain any animal products!! Not even beeswax!! Instead we use plant waxes and beautiful nourishing, skin loving Jojoba oil.

Beauty Tip

My beauty tip for March is to be a little adventurous with your makeup colours and choices.

I do not mean suddenly adding extra colour to all your features. What I mean is to be brave to change the way you are applying your makeup and updating to a more ‘now’ look.

If you have recently attended a SCOUT Cosmetics ‘Makeover Clinic’ you would have seen some of the new makeup looks and how to apply them.

Just changing the way you apply your eye makeup or changing the colours you use can take years off your age.

As the compliments start coming (and you will get compliments) you will feel fabulous.

Inner Beauty: 5 reasons travel is good for your soul, body and the mind

For many of my friends, travel or getting out of town is about more than just a holiday.

I have always described travel, especially overseas to new cultures, landscapes and experiences as ‘good for the soul’.

Far from being just about relaxing on the beach, touring a French vineyard or cycling through a canyon, as fantastic as these experiences are in themselves, there are many reasons why actually experiencing new worlds is also good for our minds, creativity and overall well being.

Here are five ideas which may spark the travel bug or prompt us to escape the routine, leave the Iphone behind and simply get away from it all. And that fact is, we do not have to travel the world to benefit from a little psychological distance!:

1. There is definitely something to be said for ‘leaving it all behind’. While most people are happy to be tied to some level of routine and love to be able to retreat into our private space, getting away can easily make the daily grind seem smaller and smaller. Being in the safety of a routine can allow us to ‘over-focus’ on the trivial so it can be good to simply forget about small things that don’t really matter too much.

2. Getting away can also ‘open up the mind’ and unshackle our creative energies. As Oren Shapira and Nira Liberman write in Scientific America magazine, merely thinking about distance can make us more creative and able to solve our problems. Research by Lile Jia at Indiana university points to merely taking another perspective or changing the context or location of a question can increase the possibilities we think of when looking at an issue. This psychological distance can make the problem feel farther away which can actually increase our creativity and ability to find a solution.

3. Imagine then how fantastic the new experiences of travel will make you feel and help you work through the daily stresses of life. As Jonah Lehrer , author of How We Decide writes in a blog Post: Why We Travel.

‘We travel because we need to, because distance and difference are the secret tonic of creativity. When we get home, home is still the same. But something in our mind has been changed, and that changes everything. Such cultural contrasts mean that seasoned travellers are alive to ambiguity, more willing to realize that there are different (and equally valid) ways of interpreting the world’.

4. I also find a trek, especially somewhere new, can give me what feels like a ‘Zen state’. Whether I go to New York, Byron Bay or the Mornington Peninsula it can feel really fresh and like being in the moment. You seem to see things that would otherwise slip by if not for the excitement of travel.

5. Travel and holidays also feel that I am rewarding myself. A trip always feels special and almost self soothing. It is self empowering to decide to free oneself, break away and do something for just you. This is the argument for adventure holidays where you do things that take you out of your comfort zone. And it does not have to be the Kokoda track.

Even simpler feats like navigating the Paris traffic or exploring Burma’s Angor Wat can make you feel proud of yourself and that help to build up your self-esteem.

Travel and exploring new things is a basic human desire. Whether you need to de-stress, have fun or mend a broken heart getting away can be an exciting way to replenish ones creative energies and reflect on the ups and down of daily life.

Experiencing cultural contrasts can help us be alive to ambiguity and more willing to realise that there are different and equally valid ways of interpreting the world.

Travel and distance really can be quite liberating.

Good for the mind, body and soul.

Sylvie xx

SCOUT e-Beauty February 2011

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

To subscribe to SCOUT Cosmetics e-Beauty

Back to School and Back to Routine

Oh the easy, breezy days of holidays are over and all of a sudden here we are back into the work routine.

Our February e-Beauty provides some ideas to help you kick off the year energised and replenished.

We introduce our new mineral liquid eyeliner. Due to many requests we have also added a waterproof mascara.

We were delighted to support the launch of the 2011 Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

The gorgeous Madeleine West, Victorian Ambassador, NSW Ambassador Jean Kittson Reiko Hombo, soloist with the Australian Ballet and all my fellow 11th hour Ambassadors from Victoria. - See Celebrity Photos

Our Hero Ingredients

Whilst reading the Annual Issue of Wellbeing Magazine recently, I came across the article Mother Knows Best by Katie McKee.

It featured many of the key ingredients we use in our skincare products and also listed many of the ingredients we have chosen to leave out.

Reading articles such as this puts it all into perspective for me and reinforces the need to bring this knowledge to others.

What are some of the ingredients mentioned; Avocado Oil, Aloe Vera, Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Calendula, Gotu Kola, White and Green Tea Extracts, Rose-hip Oil, Super fruits such as Pomegranate, Vitamin A, C and E.

Additionally, some of our other Hero Ingredients are: Kakadu Plum, Papaya, B5, Lecithin, Marshmallow, Shea Butter, Olive leaf extract and many more.

SCOUT Cosmetics News

We were delighted to support the launch of Ovarian Cancer Australia Awareness Month in February.

SCOUT provided hair & makeup for photo shoots of the OCA State Ambassadors and 11^th Hour Ambassadors In Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast.

In Melbourne the gorgeous Madeleine West is the Victorian Ambassador and I was honoured to be asked to participate as one of the eleven Melbourne 11^th hour Ambassadors. Julie Bekiri from Lady Belle Rouge (0400 202 001) provided her expertise and talent assisting me with hair and makeup.

Madeleine chose our favourite lipstick shade Flame!!!

In Sydney the NSW Ambassador is Jean Kittson and Fleur Denny – Makeup Artist and Dilek Tunc from Strobe Hair and Make-up were fantastic using their formidable styling talents - (02) 9327 3244.

On the Gold Coast the Ambassador is Meshel Laurie and SCOUT Consultant Kim Hutchings (0417 079 660) provided her incredible makeup expertise to styling Meshel and 11 other women.

SCOUT Cosmetics was so thrilled to be a part of this worthy event. - See Celebrity Photos

Product Focus of the Month – Mineral Liquid Eyeliner

This Summer inspired by the wonderful Mad Men series, I decided to add a Mineral liquid eyeliner to our range.

A cute little 4 gm bottle with brush tip, makes is so easy to apply a slick of black to channel your inner Joan or Betty.

A SCOUT clinic is the perfect place to get some tips on application, so ask your SCOUT Consultant.

I like to add my mineral eyeliner once I have applied my mineral powder eye shadow on the lid of my eye, leave your bottom lashes without colour underneath and then apply mascara to finish off the look including your bottom lashes.

SCOUT Cosmetics mineral lipstick shade Flame is hot at the moment as is Destiny.

This completes the Mad Men look.

Beauty Tip

Two herbs readily found in the garden; mint & parsley, can be combined with yoghurt to stimulate a dull and sluggish complexion.

Finely chop a small handful of each herb and blend with some plain yoghurt, smooth over face. For an instant pick me up.

Inner Beauty: The Fascinating Truth about Beauty

Projecting a beautiful you may be easier said than done. The problem is it seems almost universal that as individuals we focus on our imperfections more than our strengths, especially women.

And in my experience the bar is raised pretty high when it comes to judging our own looks.

Our perception can also be fairly changeable and random – feeling confident one day and shabby the next.

The fact is most of the time we are way too hard on ourselves so it can be worth keeping in mind some of the insights psychology brings into how we see ourselves in a certain way and why.

Why we may feel this way

It is believed that as our faces and bodies evolve during childhood and adolescence, we form a picture of ourselves, heavily influenced by our parents and peers, that is hard to get out of our minds in adulthood, however wrong it may be.

We may also be our own worst critic because we simply pay more attention to ourselves than others do. Fact is most other people see the whole you, not a collection of minor imperfections which you may have lived with and observed everyday for years. So you are almost definitely more attractive in their eyes than you think.

Context is another major factor determining how we think and feel.

As a visual species we seem hard wired to make social comparisons between ourselves and others. But these can be a bit unreasonable at times. The theory is that because social status is often linked to our appearance and women are quite susceptible to this feeling.

When a woman evaluates her physical attractiveness she tends to aim high for a standard, making the comparison with an ideal such as a fashion model or movie star. Consciously we may know better than to think this reasonable but there remains a lot of social pressure to conform to stereotypes.

Compare this to when we think about our intelligence. Here we make a fairer comparison - between ourselves and people in general but not with a stereotypical Einstein.

What can we do?

While our self concept and self esteem may be driven by many factors, there are a few simple ideas worth keeping in mind to keep a bit of perspective in everyday situations.

For example, everyone judges his or her own appearance more critically when self-aware – think of when you were on a first date or when presenting to others.

The first point is to truly realise that while looks are important, in most cases others take their cues about you from a lot more than your appearance. For most of us, while first impressions count, that bump on your nose, blemish just isn’t a focus. Attitude, zest and sense of humour are invariably much more important.
Similar it is possible that we filter the responses of others through your self-concept. So if we are nervous about our look, we may interpret a comment or glance in an unintended way.
Understanding your own powerful self-perceptions can help us stop obsessing over our appearance — and look better.

Seeing yourself as a whole person as others do, casts you in the best possible light. We all have the ability to alter how other people perceive us, without a drastic physical transformation. When you're satisfied you look good, others see you in a more favourable light.

It may also be time to reflect on your close relationships and the feedback you receive about your appearance. A steady flow of genuine acceptance is obviously going to reinforce a positive self image. However, being close to a hypercritical person may make us view ourselves in correspondingly negative terms. So for example, if you've come to accept that you're unattractive, consider whether your partner or friend may have subtly steered your thoughts in that direction.
Shyness is also a barrier to confident feelings of attractiveness. Being brave and pushing yourself to approach others and make them feel engaged and wanted, tends to diminish our own insecurities. This has been called building up our stock of ‘social capital’ which is recognised by others in a positive way.

It has also been suggested that some of us perceive our bodies as complete while others a work in progress. While some people tend to think about how their bodies look, others often focus on how well they work. If you think of your body or look as something you can shape, the proactive stance shifts the focus of power to you, rather than to how you believe other people are observing and evaluating your body.

SCOUT e-Beauty January 2011

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -1000

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

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Glorious Summer

The start of a new year always seems to feel fresh and bustling with possibilities.

Our January e-Beauty provides some ideas to help you kick off the New Year energised and replenished.

We look at new vibrant colours for 2011, a simple but rejuvenating beauty tip and the psychology of cravings and how to manage the temptation to continue with the festive season indulgences.

Inspiration - ‘Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow’ - Mary Anne Radmacher

Please pass on our e-Beauty to your friends – they may enjoy some news, ideas and inspiration!!

My Mineral Makeup

I am sometimes asked why I chose to develop a mineral makeup range and whether mineral cosmetics are ‘better for you’ than mainstream brands and contemporary formulations.

The simple answer is - I chose minerals because over the years I realised that many women needed and wanted the choice of a gentler makeup alternative that did not compromise on appeal or performance.

I found that authentic, high quality mineral makeup offered a beautiful flawless finish, an exceptional range of colour choices, long lasting performance and a gentle, naturally oriented ingredient philosophy.

While women demanded a makeup range that enhanced their natural beauty and made them feel special, available brands did not always agree with their skin and they were becoming increasingly concerned about the potential effects of certain ingredients on their skin.

So it was not really about ‘better than’ but about a real choice.

I wanted the alternative to be a premium quality makeup range that combined the right look and feel with exceptional performance.

Many women say they love the light weight feel of SCOUT Cosmetics minerals, which last all day and into the night and are water resistant.

They also tell me they notice the way light is deflected away from the skin creating a softer, healthier look.

Product Focus of the Month

Summer is here full of vibrant colours.

The bougainvillea in my back garden is in full flower and I am inspired by these colours to add a little of these hues to our makeup.

Try our Lilac Wine and Purple Rain shimmery eye shadows or glide a little Fantasy across your eye lid for instant glamour.

If you are feeling super adventurous Super Vixen is proving very popular for the young at heart.

In the lip department SCOUT Cosmetics mineral lip gloss shades of Quench, Inspire and Enchant are just the addition you need to liven up your colour palette.

SCOUT Cosmetics mineral lipstick shade Flame is hot at the moment.

To purchase these products visit our online shop.

These shades can all be purchased at our 20% discounted price. Be sure to let your friends know!

Beauty Tip

An essential part of being beautiful is to get plenty of rest.

Any woman over 40 will tell you that a good night sleep is an important part of their beauty routine.

Try to keep stress to a minimum and take some time our for yourself.

Try this recipe as the ultimate de-stress bath.

Start running your bath and pour some milk into a tablespoon, add to that 2 drops of Clary Sage essential oil, 3 drops of Geranium and 6 drops of Sweet Orange essential oil.

Soak yourself and clear your mind.

Inner Beauty - Cravings

A new year is often the time we refocus on our lifestyle and diet after the indulgence of the silly season.

We are reminded that resisting temptation is not always easy when we return to our day to day routines.

One realises that cravings, the experience of being gripped by a strong and targeted urge to eat, touch almost everyone at some time.

Ever wondered about these cravings? Why men go for salty / fatty combinations like chips and peanut butter and women tend to crave sugary / fatty combinations like chocolate and ice cream.

And what should we do – put up some resistance and fight the urge or give in and make excuses like ‘my body is telling me it needs some sugar and the only way I can get it is through a chocolate magnum right now’?

Diet is a complex much researched area and while there are no easy answers for everybody it appears that psychology has a big role to play in understanding food cravings.

Hunger and eating are strongly influenced by context.

While it may seem that impulse or desire are primal and reside deep within us, simple habit and conditioning also have a lot to do with it.

Dieting is often doomed to failure because in certain situations, we cannot seem to follow the good eating rules we have learnt.

We all understand that resisting temptation is the key to successful weight loss but when we are confronted with such situations many of us find it hard to say no.

For example, let’s cut down on bread and carbs. Easy until we are confronted with freshly baked bread in a favourite bistro and a second glass of wine is being poured.

Research related to dieting from leading psychologists Professors Walter Mischel and Janet Metcalfe of Colombia University indicates there are so-called ‘hot’ parts of our brain and ‘cool’ parts. The cool part is slow and deliberate, and allows for self-control, goal-setting and willpower — it’s the ‘no’ system. The other part is hot - emotional and instinctual, and present from birth — it’s the ‘go’ system.

Their work has shown that to resist temptation, we have to shift activity away from hot to the cool parts.

For example, when you see a chocolate ice-cream, the ‘hot’ part of your brain reacts to anticipation of the delicious taste and sugar rush. So instead of giving in, activate the ‘cool’ part of your brain by thinking hard about your health and diet goals.

The point is also reflected in the seminal work of Dr Leigh Gibson of the University of London which has shown that memory plays a significant role in overeating. If you habitually eat chocolate or other rich foods, especially when you are hungry, then every time you see it, you remember the high and the satisfaction.

It also helps to think about the longer term - of fitting into your favourite clothes or confidently striding down to the beach next summer.

It’s a simple strategy, but experiments have shown it is highly effective.

Perception is also important so try keeping your favourite foods out of sight, particularly when you are likely to be hungry.

Stress is another key issue and people under stress tend to go for high-fat, energy-dense food. So try to be aware of how you react to stress and develop a plan to deal with it directly.

So best to treat these as delicacies and consume them after you have eaten some healthy foods. Teach yourself not to associate delicacies with satisfying your hunger.

You don't have to be a slave to your appetite and if you give something up, far from your cravings increasing, they will actually decrease as the habit fades.

It is possible that by eating frequently enough to avoid strong hunger, but without eating too many calories in total, craving may loosen the grip for many of us.

Email to friends, family or colleagues click here.

Monthly e-Beauty Newsletters - mineral makeup, natural cosmetics, skincare, hair care, Australia, shampoo, foundation

SCOUT e-Beauty November 2011

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

Making plans

Brisbane and Gold Coast Skincare Launch Evenings

Inspiration for the month

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT – Limited Edition Bronzing Lotion

Beauty Tip: Timeless tip

Inner Beauty: Happiness - be in the zone this summer and go with the flow

SCOUT e-Beauty September 2011

Time to Spring Clean our Wardrobes and Makeup Bags

Just a suggestion.

Successful Skincare Launch Evening

Inspiration for the month

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT Mineral Fluid Foundation

Beauty Tip: Change one of the Colours

Inner Beauty: Make a Great Impression

SCOUT e-Beauty August 2011

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Glimpses of Spring

The Melbourne launch of SCOUT Cosmetics Skincare

Inspiration for the month of August

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Prouct Focus of the Month – Vitamin C Treatment Gel

Beauty Tip: Stealing a moment with Six Oils of Rejuvenation

Inner Beauty: ‘for better and for worse’ How Love Affects your Health

SCOUT e-Beauty July 2011

Enjoying a glorious Australian Winter

SCOUT e-Beauty June 2011

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

Enjoying an Australian Winter

Inspiration for the month of June

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Beauty Tip: Before a big night out.

Gotu Kola - ‘elixir of life’

Inner Beauty: What you say matters to me - Oprah

SCOUT e-Beauty May 2011

A pure, luxurious and effective anti-oxidant skincare range

Inspiration for the month of May

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Product Focus of the Month – Skincare

Beauty Tip: Papaya

Inner Beauty: Embrace the siesta – Recharge to be stronger, happier, and perform better

SCOUT e-Beauty April 2011

Autumn Beauty

SCOUT Antioxidant Skincare is almost here!!! Not long now

SCOUT Cosmetics is Growing

Mariam Issa – an East African culinary experience

Product Focus of the Month – New Colour shade – Lipstick ‘Courage’

Beauty Tip - Cleanse Now

Inner Beauty: Let’s talk about Lips and Kissing

SCOUT e-Beauty March 2011

The Birthstone of March is Aquamarine

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Product Focus of the Month – SCOUT Sheer Shine Lip Gloss

Beauty Tip

Inner Beauty: 5 reasons travel is good for your soul, body and the mind

SCOUT e-Beauty February 2011

Back to School and Back to Routine

Our Hero Ingredients

SCOUT Cosmetics News

Product Focus of the Month – Mineral Liquid Eyeliner

Beauty Tip

Inner Beauty: The Fascinating Truth about Beauty

SCOUT e-Beauty January 2011

Glorious Summer

My Mineral Makeup

Product Focus of the Month

Beauty Tip

Inner Beauty - Cravings

Email to friends, family or colleagues click here.

~ beauty and lifestyle – ‘news, ideas and inspiration’ ~

To subscribe to SCOUT Cosmetics e-Beauty