Last week I had the best time hosting The Naturalista’s Night Out event at Whole Foods Chicago South Loop location. After lots of planning and preparation, I am happy to share that we had a fantastic time. The evening started with a natural hair styling demo facilitated by Shavon Akhan of Glo-On Braids & Natural Hair Styling. I hand picked Shavon because last year I had the pleasure of speaking at The Natural Hair Symposium and viewing Shavon’s work. I was blown away by her creative styling and extensive knowledge of natural hair. 

photo 1-9

photo 2-9

 

Shavon’s Top Tips

1.During the winter many people experience dryness. Be sure to hydrate AND seal in moisture by using the l.o.c. method :Sulfate-free shampoo,  oil, cream.

2. Once dryness in the hair shaft occurs,  breakage is sure to follow. To determine the condition of your hair conduct a wet test. Take a few strands and gently stretch, if strands bounce back the hair is in good shape. If it breaks,  you could need a conditioning treatment.

3. For those wearing locs,  avoid creamy conditioners and try hot oil treatments instead.

4.Naturalistas tend to avoid clipping their ends in an attempt to maximize volume and length. Your ends should be clipped on average every 6-8wk. This has a major overall impact on the health and growth of your hair. As well as, the ‘look’ of a great healthy naturalstyle.

photo 3-7

Next up, guests were treated to mini consultations with Shavon. If there’s one thing I know about Naturalistas, it’s that we love to ask LOTS of questions. I think the ladies found this very helpful! To help tame curly hair and and to learn more about holistic living, we also learned about the great  beauty product selections that are available at Whole Foods South Loop. A huge thank you to event sponsors Nubian Heritage and Everyday Shea.

photo 1-10

photo 3-8

photo 2-10

Last but certainly not least, we received great health and wellness advice from Tammye Matthews of Restored Inc. I, like so many other women, find it very challenging to stay motivated to exercise and eat healthy. Tammye shared  tips on how to detox and transition to a healthier lifestyle.

photo 1-11

Tammye’s Top Tips

1. Get a juicer! It is the  fastest & easiest way to cleanse & heal the body while strengthening the immune system.

2. Seek out a Naturopath or Colonic Hygenist to receive guidance and support while detoxing.

3. Drink plenty of fresh, clean water! Alkaline or distilled water is best.

4. When considering to detox, rest is a very important factor. If you don’t rest 7-8 hours a night, your body doesn’t heal as it should.

Thank you to the members of Chicago Natural Beauty Meetup for coming out to celebrate natural beauty and healthy living with me! The Whole Foods event was such a great success that we have plans to do it again real soon. Click here to join me and 2,000+ Chicago Naturalistas  to get more information on upcoming events.